This study was conducted to investigate the effect of supplementing different types of methionine (L and D-type) and its precursor (HMBi) on milk protein synthesis using immortalized bovine mammary epithelial cell line (MAC-T Cell); D-methionine (D-Met), L-methionine (L-met) and 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutanoic acid I (HMBi), an isopropyl ester of the hydroxy analogue precursor of methionine. The underlying mechanism of milk protein synthesis by adding D- and L-type amino acid as well as HMBi was elucidated through omics analysis to verify the metabolism pathway. Results showed that HMBi group showed the highest beta casein mRNA expression levels compared to D- and L-Met groups and highest medium protein although not different with the L-Met treatment. The observed upregulated (>2 protein expression vs. control) and downregulated (<0.5 protein expression vs. control) proteins in L-Met, D-Met and HMBi treated groups were: 39, 77; 46, 68; and 40, 78, respectively. Interestingly, based on protein pathway analysis, L-Met treated group stimulated the ATP synthesis, PI3 kinase and pyruvate metabolism. On the other hand, the D-Met group stimulated fructose-galactose metabolism, glycolysis pathway, PI3 kinase and pyruvate metabolism. And lastly HMBi-treated group stimulated pentose phosphate pathway and glycolysis pathway. Metabolite analysis revealed that L-Met treated group resulted in the increase in 11 metabolites. On the other hand, D-Met treated group showed increase in 7 metabolites and decreased of uridine monophosphate (UMP). HMBi supplementation caused increases of 3 metabolites and decreased of UMP and N-acetyl-L-glutamate Addition of different isoforms of Met stimulated the production of intermediate metabolites for energy production. Addition of L-Met stimulated the production of energy metabolites such as pyruvate, malate, and fumarate, well-known as intermediates of Krebs cycle. On the other hand, HMBi supplementation resulted in increases of energy metabolite glucose 1-phosphate and 6-phosphogluconate. Results showed that HMBi-treated group exhibited highest expression of β-casein mRNA expression by stimulating proteins and metabolites as well as protein and metabolic pathways involved in protein and energy synthesis. As a result, HMBi-treated group resulted in highest protein concentration but not significantly different with L-Met. Both the D- and L-isoforms has considerably the same medium protein concentration and β-casein mRNA expression higher than the control. So, D- and L-Met isoforms can be used alternatively without any significant change in protein synthesis efficiency in bovine mammary epithelial cells.

The study was done to determine the effect of supplementing different forms of L-methionine (L-Met) and acetate on protein synthesis in immortalized bovine mammary epithelial cell line (MAC-T Cell): Control, L-Met, conjugated L-Met and acetate (CMA), and non-conjugated L-Met and Acetate (NMA). Protein synthesis mechanism was determined by omics method. NMA group had the highest protein content in the media and β-casein mRNA expression levels (P < 0.05). The number of upregulated and downregulated proteins observed were 77 and 62 in CMA group and 50 and 81 in NMA group from 448 proteins, respectively (P < 0.05). NMA and CMA treatments stimulated pathways related to protein and energy metabolism (P < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis also revealed CMA and NMA treatments resulted in increases of several metabolites (P < 0.05). In conclusion, NMA treatment increased protein concentration and expression level of β-casein mRNA in MAC-T cells compared to CMA.

We have now identified two thermodynamically distinct types (A and B) of energetic processes naturally occurring on Earth. Type A energy processes such as the classical heat engines, apparently well follow the second law of thermodynamics; Type B energy processes, such as the newly discovered thermotrophic function that isothermally utilizes environmental heat energy to do useful work in driving ATP synthesis, which follows the first law of thermodynamics (conservation of mass and energy) but does not have to be constrained by the second law, owing to their special asymmetric functions. Several Type-B energy processes such as asymmetric-function-gated isothermal electricity and epicatalysis have been created through human efforts. The innovative efforts on Type-B processes to enable isothermally utilizing endless environmental heat energy could help to liberate all peoples from their dependence on fossil fuel energy, thus helping to reduce greenhouse gas CO2 emissions and control climate change towards a sustainable future for the humanity on Earth.

In the present work we study the properties of geodesic sub-$ (\alpha,b,s) $-preinvex functions on Hadamard manifolds and establish some basic properties in both general and differential cases. Further, we study sufficient conditions of optimality and proved some new inequalities under geodesic sub-($ \alpha,b,s $)-preinvexity.

Despite well-documented health benefits of probiotics Saccharomyces, its application in oral health has not been comprehensively assessed. Dental caries is a transmissible disease initiated by acid production of cariogenic bacteria and yeast, such as Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans, on tooth enamel and followed by subsequent enamel demineralization. Here, we investigated the effect of two Saccharomyces strains (Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on S. mutans-C. albicans cross-kingdom interactions using a cariogenic planktonic model. Viable cells, pH changes and gene expression were measured. S. cerevisiae and S. boulardii inhibited the growth of C. albicans either in dual-, or multi-species conditions. Saccharomyces also inhibited C. albicans hyphal formation. Furthermore, Saccharomyces reduced the acidity of the culture medium which usually plummeted below pH 5 when S. mutans and C. albicans were present in the model. The presence of Saccharomyces maintained the culture medium above 6 even after overnight incubation, demonstrating a protective potential against dental enamel demineralization. S. boulardii significantly downregulated S. mutans atpD and eno genes expression. Overall, our results shed light on a new promising candidate, Saccharomyces, for dental caries prevention due to its potential to create a less cariogenic environment marked by a neutral pH and reduced growth of C. albicans.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is known to cause severe liver diseases such as acute or chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection is a major health problem with nearly 300 million individuals infected worldwide. Currently, nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) and interferon alpha are clinically approved treatments for HBV infection. NAs are potent antiviral agents that bind to HBV polymerase and block viral reverse transcription and replication. Besifovir dipivoxil maleate (BSV) is a newly developed NA against HBV in the form of acyclic nucleotide phosphonate that is available for oral administration similar to adefovir and tenofovir. Until now, resistance to BSV treatment has not been reported. In this study, we found a CHB patient who showed viral breakthrough after long-term treatment with BSV. The isolated HBV DNA from patient’s serum were cloned into the replication-competent HBV 1.2mer and the sequence of reverse transcriptase (RT) domain of HBV polymerase were analyzed. We also examined the drug susceptibility of generated clones in vitro. Several mutations were identified in HBV RT domain. A particular mutant harboring ten RT mutations showed resistance to BSV treatment in vitro. The ten mutations include rtV23I (I), rtH55R (R), rtY124H (H), rtD134E (E), rtN139K (K), rtL180M (M), rtM204V (V), rtQ267L (L), rtL269I (I) and rtL336M (M). To further identify the responsible mutations for BSV resistance, we performed in vitro drug susceptibility assay on several artificial clones. As a result, our study revealed that rtL180M (M) and rtM204V (V) mutations, already known as lamivudine-resistant mutations, confer resistance to BSV in the CHB patient.

(S)-1-Methyl-2-oxoimidazolidine-4-carboxylic acid 1 is an analog of (S)-pyroglutamic acid, a key component of naturally occurring peptide hormones and synthetic pharmaceutical candidates. Reaction of (S)-2-amino-3-(methylamino)propionic acid with COCl2 and aqueous NaHCO3 followed by ion exchange afforded 1, which was recrystallized from acetonitrile and then characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, polarimetry, elemental microanalysis, high resolution mass spectrometry and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The acid 1 crystallized in the orthorhombic chiral space group P212121 with cell constants a = 6.2275(4) Å, b = 8.3963(5) Å, c = 24.9490(14) Å. The X-ray crystal structure reveals that two distinct conformers of 1 occur at alternating positions within helices which are supported by hydrogen-bonding. Each molecule of 1 is linked to its two neighbors in the helix by a total of three hydrogen bonds and four molecules of 1 are contained within each turn of the helix. The pattern of hydrogen bonds illustrates a preference for the carboxylic acid group to act as a hydrogen bond donor and for the urea unit to be a hydrogen bond acceptor.

Acidic ostreolysin A/pleurotolysin B (OlyA/PlyB, formerly known as ostreolysin (Oly), and basic 20 kDa equinatoxins (EqTs) are cytolytic proteins isolated from the edible mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus and the sea anemone Actinia equina, respectively. Both toxins, although from different sources, share many similar biological activities: (i) colloid-osmotic shock by forming pores in cellular and artificial membranes enriched in cholesterol and sphingomyelin; (ii) increased vascular endothelial wall permeability in vivo and perivascular oedema; (iii) dose-dependent contraction of coronary vessels; (iv) haemolysis with pronounced hyperkalaemia in vivo; (v) bradycardia, myocardial ischemia and ventricular extrasystoles accompanied by progressive fall of arterial blood pressure and respiratory arrest in rodents. Both types of toxins are haemolytic within nanomolar range concentrations, and it seems that hyperkalaemia plays an important role in toxin cardiotoxicity. However, it was observed that the haemolytically more active EqT III is less toxic than EqT I, the most toxic and least haemolytic EqT. In mice, EqT II is more than 30 times more toxic than OlyA/PlyB when applied intravenously. These observations imply that haemolysis with hyperkalaemia is not the sole cause of the lethal activity of both toxins. Additional mechanisms responsible for lethal action of the two toxins are direct effects on heart, coronary vasoconstriction and related myocardial hypoxia. In this review, we appraise the pathophysiological mechanisms related to the chemical structure of OlyA/PlyB and EqTs, as well as their toxicity.

Background: Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is a global health concern, associated with severe liver diseases, necessitating ongoing research on novel drug candidates. This study aims to identify potential drug candidates targeting HBV core protein (HBcAg) and disrupting capsid assembly, a critical step in the virus's life cycle. Methods: HBcAg in complex with HBV inhibitors were obtained from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). CavityPlus server was used for analysis of druggable cavity. Structure-based pharmacophores were extracted from identified cavities, and potential allosteric ligand binding sites were assessed using CavPharmer, CorrSite, and CovCys. LigandScout was employed for ligand-based pharmacophore screening against an FDA-approved library. The ZINC database was screened with features extracted from CavPharmer. Molecular docking studies were conducted using Autodock Vina. Lead compounds were selected based on docking scores, binding modes, and interactions within the druggable cavity. Results: Strong druggable pockets were found for Ciclopirox, while Compound 24, NVR10-001E2, and others showed medium to weak pockets. Ligand-based pharmacophores varied in size and complexity. Screening revealed potential hits matching these pharmacophores, including Ciclopirox olamine, Voriconazole, Enasidenib, and Statins. A large compound database search yielded additional hits like ZINC86859997 and ZINC63280172. Docking analyses confirmed these hits' potential, highlighting their interactions with critical HBc protein residues, offering promising leads for hepatitis B drug development. Conclusions: Voriconazole, Enasidenib, and Lovastatin have shown promises. These hits displayed favorable interactions with crucial HBc protein residues, indicating their potential as lead compounds The mechanism of action of statins with anti-HBV activities also highlighted. This comprehensive approach offers valuable insights into targeting HBc protein for antiviral drug discovery.

(S)-Atenolol ((S)-2-(4-(2-Hydroxy-3-(isopropylamino)propoxy)phenyl)acetamide) has been synthesized in >99% ee with use of Candida antarctica lipase B from Syncozymes (Shanghai, China), in a kinetic resolution of the corresponding racemic chlorohydrin. Deprotonation of the starting phenol building block was base catalyzed. The enantiopurity of the chlorohydrin building block remained unchanged upon subsequent amination. All four steps in the synthesis protocol have been optimized compared to previously reported methods, which makes this new protocol more sustainable and in accordance with green chemistry principles compared to previously reported protocols.

Background: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Due to the variety of clinical manifestations, accurate diagnosis can be challenging. Here, we present a case of DLBCL that was initially misdiagnosed as a hematoma, highlighting the importance of considering malignancy in the setting of non-responsive soft tissue swelling. Methods: A 76-year-old man presented to the emergency department with right periorbital swelling and ecchymosis. The symptoms first appeared after an injury and did not resolve spontaneously. The patient was taking warfarin for atrial fibrillation. A facial bone CT revealed a large irregular homogeneous mass. An extraconal hematoma was suspected based on clinical history and radiologic findings. Incision and drainage were performed, resulting in evacuation of old blood. Despite continued drainage, the patient's symptoms worsened. A comparison with the previous CT revealed an increase in the size of the lesion. As a result, a surgical excisional biopsy was performed. Results: Biopsy of the mass showed a diffuse infiltrate of lymphocytes around the tissue. The diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was confirmed pathologically. The patient was referred to hematology for further management. Conclusions: DLBCL is a rare disease associated with a poor prognosis. Due to the previous injury and the use of anticoagulants, the patient was initially misdiagnosed as having a hematoma. This delayed the prompt diagnosis and affected the timing of treatment initiation. We must be aware that a malignant mass is a potential cause of unresponsive soft tissue swelling.

Krill oil (KO) shows promise as a natural marine-derived ingredient for improving skin health. This study investigated its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-wrinkle, and moisturizing effects on skin cells and UVB-induced skin photoaging in hairless mice. In vitro assays on HDF, HaCaT, and B16/F10 cells, and in vivo experiments on 66 hairless mice, were conducted. Mice received oral KO administration (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg) once a day for 15 weeks and UVB radiation three times a week. In vitro, KO significantly countered UVB-induced oxidative stress, reduced wrinkles, and prevented skin water loss by enhancing collagen and hyaluronic synthesis. In vivo, all KO dosages showed dose-dependent inhibition of oxidative stress-induced inflammatory photoaging-related skin changes. Skin mRNA expressions for hyaluronan synthesis and collagen synthesis genes also increased dose-dependently after KO treatment. Histopathological analysis confirmed that Krill Oil (KO) ameliorated the damage caused by UVB-irradiated skin tissues. These findings suggest that KO may be a valuable intervention to mitigate UVB-induced skin photoaging and address various skin concerns.

A sustainable solution for crack maintenance in geopolymers is necessary if they are to be the future of modern green construction. This study thus aimed to develop self-healing biogeopolymers that could potentially rival bioconcrete. First, a suitable healing agent was selected from Bacillus subtilis, B. sphaericus, and B. megaterium by directly adding their spores in the geopolymers and subsequently exposing them to a large amount of nutrients for 14 days. SEM-EDX analysis revealed the formation of biominerals for B. subtilis and B. sphaericus. Next, the effect of biochar-immobilization and co-culturing (B. sphaericus and B. thuringiensis) on the healing efficiencies of the geopolymers were tested and optimized by measuring their ultrasonic pulse velocities weekly over a 28-day healing period. The results show that using co-cultured bacteria significantly improved the observed efficiencies, while biochar-immobilization had a weak effect but yielded an optimum response between 0.3-0.4 g/mL. The maximum crack width sealed was 0.65 mm. Through SEM-EDX and FTIR analyses, the biominerals precipitated in the cracks were identified to be mainly CaCO3. Furthermore, image analysis of the XCT scans of some of the healed geopolymers confirmed that their pulse velocities were indeed improving due to the filling of their internal spaces with biominerals. With that, there is potential in developing self-healing biogeopolymers using biochar-immobilized spores of bacterial cultures.

Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations model motion of molecules in atomistic detail and aid in drug design. While simulations on large systems may require several days to complete, analysis of terabytes of data generated in the process could also be time consuming. Recent studies captured exciting and dramatic drug-receptor interactions under cell-like complex conditions. Such advances make simulations of biomolecular interactions more realistic, insightful, and informative and have potential to make drug design more realistic. However, currently available resources and techniques do not provide, in reasonable time, a comprehensive understanding of events seen in simulations. We demonstrate that big data approach results in significant speedups, and provides rapid insights into simulations performed. Advancing this improvement, we propose a scalable, self-tuning, and responsive framework based on Cloud-infrastructure to accomplish the best possible MD studies with given priorities and within available resources.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of academic advising on changing or maintaining majors in university degrees. It is also a goal of the study to determine which semester of the course study is most likely or less likely witness the change of major and whether advising contributes to that change. Through this correlational study, the researchers explored students’ perceptions about the academic advising they received and the relationship of its absence on students’ major change. The participants were 1725 undergraduate students from all year levels. One survey is used to collect the data for this study: Influences on Choice of Major Survey. Based on the findings, it is found that university advisors have a very poor effect on students' decisions to select their majors as 45.6% of the 1725 participants indicate NO influence of advising in their survey answers. Whereas career advancement opportunities, students' interests, and job opportunities indicate a strong effect on their majors’ selections as they score the highest means of 3.76, 3.73, 3.64 respectively. In addition, findings show that students are most likely changing their majors in their second year and specifically in the second semester. Second year major change scored 36.9% in the second semester and 30.9% in the first semester. More importantly, results indicate that there is a positive significant correlation between college advisor and change major in the second year (p = 0.000). It is to researchers understanding based on the findings that when students receive enough academic advising in the first year of study and continues steadily to the next year, the possibilities of students changing their majors decreases greatly.

Background: Antibiotic resistance is an urgent issue everywhere in the globe. It is necessary to look into new sources of antibiotics to address this issue. Aim of the study: studying the purification of Corallopyronin B from various soil conditions in Egypt, as well as the antibacterial effectiveness of Corallopyronin B in preclinical animal testing and randomized human clinical trials phases 1/2. Type of the study: Screening experimental study. Methodology: Several soil conditions in Egypt were examined to create bacterial isolates that generated the antibiotic chemical Corallopyronin B. Using reversed-phase HPLC, Myxopyronin B was purified. The test antibiotic's minimum inhibitory concentration( MIC) and in vitro antibacterial activity were ascertained using the paper disc diffusion assay and the broth microdilution technique. Furthermore, in stages 1/2 of randomized clinical trials including human and animal models, pharmacokinetics, adverse drug reactions, and the in vivo antibacterial spectrum were discovered. Results: The soil bacterial isolate Corallococcus coralloides DSM 2259, which was grown on a Casein yeast peptone( CYP) plate, produced Corallopyronin B from its culture supernatant. At MICs more than 100 mcg/ml, the test antibiotic inhibited the growth of many Gram -ve bacteria, including Escherichia coli, while also preventing the growth of numerous Gram +ve bacteria, with MICs ranging from 1 to 10 mcg/ml. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, including those in humans and fungi, were unharmed. The test antibiotic was shown to have a bactericidal effect by inhibiting bacterial DNA-dependent RNA polymerase( RNLP). In phases 1/2 of randomized human clinical trials, when 600 mg of the dose per 70 kg of body weight was administered SC, the Cmax was 8.6 mcg/ml at Tmax 1 hour; T1/2 reached 136 min following first-order kinetics of elimination. It stopped acting around 6-7 hours after SC was administered. In the preclinical and randomized human clinical trial phases 1/2, less than 6 percent of experimental candidates had uncommon toxicity, which showed up as reduced bile flow. Protein binding with plasma albumin was detected which reached about 83%. Conclusion: The current work was noteworthy since it involved the production of the bactericidal antibiotic Corallopyronin B from Corallococcus coralloides DSM 2259 which was isolated from several soil environments in Egypt.

Fluorescent bioprobes are invaluable tools for visualizing live cells and deciphering complex biological processes by targeting intracellular biomarkers without disrupting cellular functions. In addition to protein-binding concepts, fluorescent probes utilize various mechanisms, including membrane, metabolism, and gating-oriented strategies. This study introduces a novel fluorescent mechanism distinct from existing ways. Here, we developed a B-cell selective probe, CDrB, with unique transport mechanisms. Through SLC-CRISPRa screening, we identified two transporters, SLCO1B3 and SLC25A41, by sorting out populations exhibiting higher and lower fluorescence intensities, respectively, demonstrating contrasting activities. We confirmed that SLCO1B3, with comparable expression levels in T and B cells, facilitates the transport of CDrB into cells, while SLC25A41, overexpressed in T lymphocytes, actively exports CDrB. The observation suggests that SLC25A41 plays a crucial role in discriminating between T and B lymphocytes. Furthermore, it reveals the potential for reversible localization of SLC25A41 to demonstrate its distinct activity. This study is the first report to unveil a novel strategy of SLC by exporting the probe. We anticipate that this research will open up new avenues for developing fluorescent probes.

Some time ago, Kobayashi et al. experimentally studied the so-called Lee-Naughton-Lebed's (LNL) angular effect in strong electric fields [K. Kobayashi, M. Saito, E. Omichi, and T. Osada, Phys. Rev. Lett. \textbf{96}, 126601 (2006)]. They found that strong electric fields split the LNL conductivity maxima in $\alpha$-(ET)$_2$-based organic conductor and hypothetically introduced the corresponding equation for conductivity. In this Letter, for the first time we suggest quantum mechanical theory of the LNL angular oscillations in moderately strong electric fields. In particular, we demonstrate that the obtained by us approximate theoretical formula coincides with the hypothetical one and well describes the above mentioned experiments.

Soil amendments with composted organic materials are recommended to increase soil organic matter (SOM), promote soil fertility, and the Circular Economy. Growing areas of hedged olive groves in southern Iberia peninsula generate huge amounts of olive leaves whose potential as soil organic amendment is not fully studied. An experimental field trial in a hedged olive grove (cv. “Cobrançosa”) was set up near Portalegre, Portugal, to test a compost of olive leaves plus sheep manure (2:1) applied in the row, at soil surface. Three nominal rates (0 or control, 2.5 and 5.0 kg m-2) were used, in a complete randomized block setup (3 treatments, 3 replicas, 9 plots) and soil chemical properties of layers 0-5, 5-15, and 15-30 cm deep were annually monitored. Results (mainly in layer 0-5 cm) showed increases in total N, carbon of the particulate organic matter (POM-C), permanganate oxidizable carbon (POX-C), extractable phosphorus, and zinc, after one year, and increases in soil organic carbon (SOC), C-stock, pHKCl, extractable phosphorus, and zinc, after two years. POX-C was the most sensitive SOM-related indicator, showing increases up to 30 cm deep after one year. This compost improved soil fertility, but should be monitored over longer periods of time, namely for SOC and extractable zinc content.

The review scrutinizes the currently performed research on the new methods for enhancing bituminous binder performance through radiation and radical grafting of polymer modifers of bitumen. It investigates innovative methods, including using waste polymers as modifiers, and applying radiation for polymer grafting, to overcome challenges like high costs, low aging resistance and storage stability issues, of which separation of phases polymer/bitumen is the most significant obstacle. These advanced modification techniques promise sustainability through the decrease of the carbon footprint of transportation systems by improving the properties and durability of binders. Additionally, the review discusses the parameters and mechanistic aspects from a scientific perspective, shedding light on the underlying processes that contribute to the improved performance of modified bituminous binders.

The CYSTM (cysteine-rich transmembrane module) protein family comprises small molecular cysteine-rich tail-anchored membrane proteins found in many eukaryotes. The Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains carrying the CYSTM genes YDRO34W-B and YBR056W-A (MNC1) fused with GFP were used to test expression of these genes under different stresses. The YBR056W-A (MNC1) and YDR034W-B genes are expressed under stress conditions caused by the toxic concentrations of heavy metal ions such as manganese, cobalt, nickel, zinc, cuprum, and 2.4-dinitrophenol uncoupler. YDR034W-B but not YBR056W-A is expressed under alkali and cadmium stresses. YBR056W-A is localized in intracellular membranes, while YDR034W-B is localized in the cytoplasmic membrane. The null-mutants in both genes demonstrated both decreased cell concentration and lytic phenotype when cultivated in the presence of excess manganese. This indicates the involvement of Mnc1 and YDR034W-B proteins in manganese detoxification, probably by complexation of its ion.

In recent years, the interaction between adiponectin (APN), a versatile fat-associated adipokines, and eye disorders has become a captivating focus of interest. Unveiling the intricate relationship between APN and its receptors (AdipoRs) with aging eye disorders has emerged as a fascinating frontier in medical research. This review article delves into this captivating connection, illuminating the hidden influence of adipocytokine, APN on retinal health. This comprehensive review critically examines the latest findings and breakthroughs that underscore the pivotal roles of APN/AdipoRs signaling in maintaining ocular homeostasis and protecting against eye ailments. Here, we meticulously explore the intriguing mechanisms by which APN protein influences retinal function, lens clarity, and overall visual acuity. Drawing from an extensive array of cutting-edge studies, the article highlights APN's multifaceted functions, ranging from anti-inflammatory properties and oxidative stress reduction to angiogenic regulation within retinal and macula tissues. The involvement of APN/AdipoRs in mediating these effects opens up novel avenues for potential therapeutic interventions targeting prevalent aging eye conditions. Moreover, this review unravels the interplay between APN signaling pathways and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The single-cell RNA seq results validate the expression of both the receptor isoform (AdipoR1/R2) in retinal cells. The transcriptomic analysis showed lower expression of AdipoR1/2 in dry AMD pathogenesis compared to healthy subjects. The inhibitory peptide (APN1) demonstrated over 75% suppression of CNV, whereas the control peptide did not exert any inhibitory effect on CNV. The elucidation of these relationships fosters a deeper under-standing of adipose tissue's profound influence on ocular health, presenting new prospects for personalized treatments and preventative measures. In conclusion, "Obesity Hormone's Role in Aging Eyes: Linking Adiponectin/AdipoRs to AMD" provides a captivating journey into the enthralling world of APN intertwining the realms of adipose biology and aged ophthalmology.

Osteoporosis is an abnormal bone remodeling condition characterized by decreased bone density, which leads to high risks of broken bones. Previous studies have demonstrated that Lycii Radicis Cortex (LRC) extract inhibits bone loss in ovariectomized (OVX) mice by enhancing the osteoblast differentiation. A bioactive compound, Kukoamine B (KB), was identified from a fractionation of LRC extract as a candidate component responsible for an anti-osteoporotic effect. This study investigated the anti-osteoporotic effects of KB using in vitro and in vivo osteoporosis models. KB treatment significantly increased the osteoblastic differentiation and mineralized nodule formation of osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells, while it significantly decreased the osteoclast differentiation of primary-cultured monocytes derived from mouse bone marrow. The effects of KB on osteoblastic and osteoclastic differentiations under more physiological conditions were also examined. In the co-culture of MC3T3-E1 cells and monocytes, KB promoted osteoblast differentiation but did not affect osteoclast differentiation. For the in vivo experiments, KB significantly inhibited OVX-induced bone mineral density loss and restored the impaired bone structural properties in osteoporosis model mice. These results suggest that KB may be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of osteoporosis.

B chromosomes (Bs) or supernumerary chromosomes are extra chromosomes in the species karyotype that can vary in their copy number. Bs are widespread. Usually, the Bs of specimens collected from natural populations are involved in studies. We applied another approach analyzing the Bs in animals of laboratory cultures. In this study, three species of the Macrostomum genus that underwent a recent whole-genome duplication (WGD) were involved. In laboratory lines of M. lignano and M. janickei, the frequency of Bs was less than 1%, while in the laboratory culture of M. mirumnovem, it was nearer 30%. Their number in specimens of the culture varied from 1 to 14. Mosaicism on Bs was discovered in parts of these animals. We analyzed the distribution of Bs among the worms of the laboratory cultures during long-term cultivation, the transmission rates of Bs in the progeny obtained from crosses of worms with different numbers of Bs, and from self-fertilized isolated worms. The DNA content of the Bs in M. mirumnovem was analyzed with the chromosomal in situ suppression (CISS) hybridization of microdissected DNA probes derived from A chromosomes (As). Bs mainly consisted of repetitive DNA. The cytogenetic analysis also revealed the divergence and high variation in large metacentric chromosomes (LMs) containing numerous regions enriched for repeats. The possible mechanisms of the appearance and evolution of Bs and LMs in species of the Macrostomum genus were also discussed.

The article presents data on phylogeny, genome size, and ploidy of species of the genus Kalidium Moq. in the flora of Kazakhstan. Genus Kalidium belongs to the tribe Salicornieae of the subfamily Salicornioideae of the family Chenopodiaceae and unites 8 species, the main range of which covers the Iranian-Turanian and Central Asian deserts. There are 4 species in the flora of Kazakhstan: K. foliatum, K. caspicum, K. schrenkianum and the recently described K. juniperinum. Populations of species of the genus Kalidium in the saline deserts of Kazakhstan occupy large areas, often forming monodominant communities. Sometimes there is a joint growth of 2 and very rarely 3 species of the genus. During the period of fieldwork (2021-2022), populations were identified in which these species grew together with a predominance, in most cases, of K. caspicum. Samples of representatives from 15 populations were collected for research. Selected plant samples were studied by flow cytometry to determine plant ploidy. Sequencing of nrITS and two chloroplast fragments were used to build a phylogenetic tree, including sequences from the NCBI database., A phylogenetic tree of species of the genus Kalidium was compiled which considers previously published data. In the valley of the middle reaches of the Syrdarya River tetraploid populations of K. caspicum were found. A hybrid between K. foliatum and K. caspicum was found in the Ili River valley (Almaty region, Uigur district). To identify phylogenetic processes at the intraspecific level, the SCoT (Start codon targeted) fingerprinting method was used.

Wireless sensor networks are widely used in many applications such as environmental monitoring, health care, smart grid and surveillance. Many security protocols have been proposed and intensively studied due to the inherent nature of wireless networks. In particular, Wu et al. proposed a promising authentication scheme which is sufficiently robust against various attacks. However, according to our analysis, Wu et al.'s scheme has two serious security weaknesses against malicious outsiders. First, their scheme can lead to user impersonation attacks. Second, user anonymity is not preserved in their scheme. In this paper, we present these vulnerabilities of Wu et al.'s scheme in detail. We also propose a new scheme by fixing such vulnerabilities and improving the performance of the protocol.

Background: Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) have shown efficacy in delivering adequate oxygen for various patient scenarios; however, there is a lack of research on POCs’ efficacy across different respiratory rates specifically among COPD patients. Methods: This bench study was conducted using the IngMar Medical Active Servo Lung 5000 attached to flexible tubing, which simulated an adult patient’s nares. An oxygen analyzer (Maxtec Handi+) was connected to the tubing 6 inches below the nares to estimate the inspired oxygen concentration at the adult trachea. A standard nasal cannula was placed in the simulated patient nares, which was also attached to each POC. The IngMar Lung was programmed to simulate a COPD patient at the following respiratory rates: 15, 20, 30, and 40 breaths/min. POC devices were then compared to an oxygen wall outlet and a standard oxygen concentrator (non-portable CAIRE device). The POCs included the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort (with Autosat), CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort (without Autosat), Inogen G4, Inogen G5, Phillips SimplyGo Mini, GCE Zen-O lite, Drive Medical iGo2, and Kingon POCs. Descriptive statistics and ANOVAs were computed to determine statistically significant differences between POCS and control devices (wall oxygen and standalone oxygen concentrator). Results: Across most respiratory rate scenarios, the wall oxygen and standalone oxygen concentrator (control group) resulted higher oxygen measurements compared to the POCs. Among the POCs on setting 2, the highest oxygen measurement for 15, 30, and 40 breaths/min was the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort with AutoSat on sensitivity 5 (24.43%, 24.81%, and 25.0%, respectively). On setting 2, the 20 breaths/min highest oxygen measurement was the Inogen G4 (24.43%). For setting 5, the highest oxygen measurement for 15 breaths/min and 40 breaths/min was the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort without AutoSat (31.56% and 26.13%, respectively), while the highest oxygen measurement for 20 breaths/min was the Inogen G5 (30.26%), and the highest oxygen measurement for 30 breaths/min was the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort with AutoSat on sensitivity level 5 (27.89%). Conclusions: The oxygen administered through the wall and the standalone CAIRE oxygen concentrator all delivered higher oxygen levels compared to the POCs (with the exception of the 40 breaths/min scenario on setting 2). However, among the POCs, the CAIRE Freestyle Comfort with AutoSat, CAIRE Freestyle Comfort without AutoSat, and the Inogen G4 all performed the best among the various breathing rate scenarios.

The work proposes a backtesting analysis in comparison between the Lee-Carter and the Cairns-Blake-Dowd mortality models, employing Italian data. The mortality data come from the Italian National Statistics Institute (ISTAT) database and span the period 1975-2014, over which we computed back-projections evaluating the performances of the models in comparisons with real data. We propose three different backtest approaches, evaluating the goodness of short-run forecast versus medium-length ones. We find that both models were not able to capture the improving shock on the mortality observed for the male population on the analyzed period. Moreover, the results suggest that CBD forecast are reliable prevalently for ages above 75, and that LC forecast are basically more accurate for this data.

Objective: The combination of docetaxel (DTX) with Laser-Activated NanoTherapy (LANT), as a treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of lower doses of DTX, thereby minimizing the effective dosage, side effects and treatment times. Material and methods: Three HNSCC cell lines, Detroit 562, FaDu, and CAL 27, were treated with four combinations of DTX + LANT to evaluate DTX dose reduction and cell viability. Results: The 1 nM DTX + 5 nM LANT combination was the most effective treatment, increasing cell death over its corresponding DTX monotreatment with approximately 86.6%, 80.7%, and 92.1% cell death for Detroit 562, FaDu, and CAL 27, respectively. In Detroit 562, the 1 nM DTX + 5 nM LANT combination treatment resulted in the highest percentage of DTX dose reduction at 84.6%; in FaDu and CAL 27, the 0.5 nM DTX + 5 nM LANT combination treatment resulted in the highest percentage of DTX dose reduction at 78.2% and 82.4%, respectively. Conclusion: LANT may increase the therapeutic efficacy of DTX at significantly lower doses, which could improve patient outcomes.

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.

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.

Drought events are predicted to become more prevalent in the future. Evaluating the performance of herbicide-resistant and susceptible weed ecotypes to progressive drought can provide insights into whether resistance trait(s) increased or reduced the fitness of a resistant population. Two experiments were conducted in the greenhouse between January and May 2021 to evaluate drought tolerance differences between Palmer amaranth accessions resistant to S-metolachlor or glyphosate and their susceptible counterparts. The accessions used were: S-metolachlor-resistant (17TUN-A), a susceptible standard (09CRW-A), and glyphosate-resistant (22 to 165 EPSPS copies) and glyphosate-susceptible (3 to 10 EPSPS copies) plants from accession 16CRW-D. Daily transpiration of each plant was measured. The daily transpiration rate was converted to normalized transpiration ratio (NTR) using a double-normalization procedure. The daily soil water content was expressed as a fraction of transpirable soil water (FTSW). The threshold FTSW (FTSWcr), after which NTR decreases linearly, was estimated using a two-segment linear regression analysis. The data showed differences between S-metolachlor- resistant and -susceptible accessions (P ≤ 0.05). The FTSW remaining in the soil at the breakpoint for the S-metolachlor-susceptible accession (09CRW-A) was 0.17±0.007. The FTSW remaining in the soil at the breakpoint for the S-metolachlor-resistant accession (17TUN-A) was 0.23±0.004. Although the mechanism endowing resistance to S-metolachlor might have contributed to increased drought tolerance, follow-up experiments are needed to verify this finding. Increased EPSPS copy number did not improve drought tolerance of Palmer amaranth.

This work presents the results of three connection types in double-shear with dowel fasteners, using the simplified equations from the Eurocode 5. All design parameters were established and compared using three different wood strength and density properties, which constitute the members connections. Eighty-one connections were obtained, allowing to conclude about the number of fasteners needed to the applied tensile load. An increase in the number of dowels was obtained with the increased applied tensile load, lower dowel diameter, lower wood density, and lower strength material in all connection types in the study. The design characteristic load-carrying capacity per shear plane and fastener also decrease with the previously considered parameters.

Euler’s product formula over the primes and Euler’s zeta function equate to enshrine the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic that every integer > 1 is the product of a unique set of primes. The product formula has no zero, and with a domain ≤1 Euler’s zeta diverges. Dirichlet’s eta function η(s), negates alternate terms of zeta, permitting convergence when s∈C and Re(s) < 1, and its non-trivial zeros {ρ}, have a deep relationship with the distribution of the primes. The Riemann Hypothesis is that all the non-trivial zeros have Re(ρ) = 1/2. This work examines the symmetries in a partial Euler’s zeta series with a complex domain equating it to the difference between two finite vector series whose matched terms have mirror-image arguments, but whose magnitudes differ when Re(s) ≠ 1/2. Analytical continuation generates a modified eta series η_l(s), in which every l^th term is multiplied by (1-l). If the integer l is appropriately determined by the Im(s), similar paired finite vector series have a difference that closely follows η_l (s) and their terminal vectors intersect in a unique way permitting zeros only when Re(s) = 1/2. Furthermore, those vectors tracking the derivatives of the series, have a special relationship permitting zeros of the differential only when Re(s) > 1/2.

Several studies in computer vision have examined specular removal, which is crucial for object detection and recognition. This research has traditionally been divided into two tasks: specular highlight removal, which focuses on removing specular highlights on object surfaces, and reflection removal, which deals with specular reflections occurring on glass surfaces. In reality, however, both types of specular effects often coexist, making it a fundamental challenge that has not been adequately addressed. Recognizing the necessity of integrating specular components handled in both tasks, we constructed a Specular-Light (S-Light) DB for training single-image-based deep learning models. Moreover, considering the absence of benchmark datasets for quantitative evaluation, the Multi-Scale Normalized Cross Correlation (MS-NCC) metric, which considers the correlation between specular and diffuse components, was introduced to assess the learning outcomes.

Complex-structured polymeric microparticles hold significant promise as advance in next-generation medicine mostly due to demand from developing targeted drug delivery. However, the conventional methods for producing these microparticles of defined size, shape and sophisticated composition often face challenges in scalability, reliance on specialized components such as micro-patterned templates, or have limited control over particle size distribution and cargo release kinetics. In this study, we introduce a novel and reliably scalable approach for manufacturing microparticles of defined structures and sizes with variable parameters. The concept behind this method involves the deposition of a specific number of polymer layers on a substrate with low surface energy. Each layer can serve as either the carrier for cargo or a programmable shell-former with predefined permeability. Subsequently, this layered structure is precisely cut into desired-sized blanks using a laser. The manufacturing process is completed by applying of heat to the substrate what results on sealing the edges of the blanks. The combination of the high surface tension of the molten polymer and the low surface energy of the substrate enables the formation of discrete particles, each possessing semi-spherical or other designed geometries determined by their internal composition. Such anisotropic microparticles are envisaged versatile applications.

This research emphasizes a meta-heuristic Modified Ant Lion Optimizer (MALO) optimization approach for simultaneous utilization of DSTATCOM devices and distributed Photovoltaic (PV) sources with network reconfiguration in a radial power distribution scheme. In a radial power distribution network with network reconfiguration majority of the research is based on Constant Power model analysis. However, it is noticed that load models have a substantial impact on the distributed PV sources and the D-STATCOM device's optimal size and position. The effect of the Constant Power (CP) and Polynomial (ZIP) with load growth load models for the simultaneous insertion of distributed PV sources and DSTATCOM devices with network reconfiguration examined in this research work for power system planning. The penetration levels of distributed PV sources considered for the investigation are 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The principal objective of this research is to reduce network total power losses, enhance the voltage magnitude profile at all buses, and reduce the overall operating cost while adhering to equality and inequality constraints. The proposed algorithm verified on 118-node test systems. The investigation is carried out for planning network upgradation to a High Voltage Distribution System(HVDS) on 317 nodes in the rural Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited(BESCOM) radial distribution scheme. Simulated results obtained by this method are validated with the BAT algorithm and available techniques in the literature.

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive pediatric brainstem tumor with a 5-year survival of <1%. Up to 80% of DIPG tumors contain a specific K27M mutation in one of two genes encoding histone H3 (H3K27M). Furthermore, p53 mutations found in >70-80% of H3K27M DIPG, and mutant p53 status is associated with a decreased response to radiation treatment and worse overall prognosis. Recent evidence indicates that H3K27M mutation disrupts tri-methylation at H3K27 leading to aberrant gene expression. Jumonji family histone demethylases collaborates with H3K27 mutation in DIPG by erasing H3K27 trimethylation and thus contributing to derepression of genes involved in tumorigenesis. Since the first line treatment for pediatric DIPG is fractionated radiation, we investigated the effects of Jumonji demethylase inhibition with GSK-J4, and mutant p53 targeting/oxidative stress induction with APR-246, on radio-sensitization of human H3K27M DIPG cells. Both APR-246 and GSK-J4 displayed growth inhibitory effects as single agents in H3K27M DIPG cells. Furthermore, both of these agents elicited mild radiosensitizing effects in human DIPG cells (sensitizer enhancement ratios (SERs) of 1.12 and 1.35, respectively; p<0.05). Strikingly, a combination of APR-246 and GSK-J4 displayed a significant enhancement of radiosensitization, with SER of 1.50 (p<0.05) at sub-micro-molar concentrations of the drugs (0.5 μM). The molecular mechanism of the observed radiosensitization appears to involve DNA damage repair deficiency triggered by APR-246/GSK-J4, leading to the induction of apoptotic cell death. Thus, a therapeutic approach of combined targeting of mutant p53, oxidative stress induction, and Jumonji demethylase inhibition with radiation in DIPG warrants further investigation.

Depressive disorder in childhood and adolescence is a highly prevalent mood disorder that tends to recur throughout life. Untreated mood disorders can adversely impact a patient's quality of life and cause socioeconomic loss. Thus, an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is crucial. However, until now, diagnoses and treatments are conducted according to clinical symptoms. Objective and biological validation are lacking. This may result in a poor outcome for patients with depressive disorder. Research has been conducted to identify the biomarkers that are related to depressive disorder. Cumulative evidence has revealed that certain immunologic biomarkers in-cluding brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cytokines, gastrointestinal biomarkers, hormones, oxidative stress, and certain hypothalamus-pituitary axis biomarkers are associated with depressive disorder. This article reviews the biomarkers related to the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric depressive disorders. To date, clinical biomarker tests are not yet available for diagnosis or for the prediction of treatment prognosis. However, cytokines such as Interleukin-2, interfer-on-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and BDNF have shown significant results in previous studies of pediatric depressive disorder. These biomarkers have the potential to be used for diagnosis, prognostic assessment, and group screening for those at high risk.

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are essential components of the innate immune system, present across a spectrum of organisms. Their versatility lies in their ability to effectively inhibit a wide range of pathogens including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. As the challenge of antibiotic resistance escalates and concerns surrounding antibiotic use grow, AMPs have emerged as promising alternatives. Their applications span diverse domains such as medicine, agriculture, food production, animal husbandry, and aquaculture, primarily due to their efficacy against resistant pathogens, signifying their crucial role in combating infections. Beyond their antimicrobial properties, research illuminates their intricate involvement in the immune response network. These peptides impact crucial processes including cytokine release, chemotaxis, wound healing, angiogenesis and the activation of the adaptive immune system. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted realm of AMPs, encompassing their classification, varied applications across industries and notably, their significance in diverse disease conditions like infections, skin diseases, cancer, oral diseases, lung diseases and cardiovascular ailments. Special attention is directed towards current advancements in clinical applications of peptide-based therapeutics, offering invaluable insights into their potential future integration within clinical settings.

Topological indices have been used to modeling biological and chemical properties of molecules in quantitive structure property relationship studies and quantitive structure activity studies. All the degree based topological indices have been defined via classical degree concept. In this paper we define a novel degree concept for a vertex of a simple connected graph: S degree. And also we define S indices of a simple connected graph by using the S degree concept. We compute the S indices for well-known simple connected graphs such as paths, stars, complete graphs and cycles.

We present progress in fast, high-resolution imaging, material classification, and fault detection using hyperspectral X-ray measurements. Classical X-ray CT approaches rely on data from many projection angles, resulting in long acquisition and reconstruction times. Additionally, conventional CT cannot distinguish between materials with similar densities. However, in additive manufacturing, the majority of materials used are known a priori. This knowledge allows to vastly reduce the data collected and increase the accuracy of fault detection. In this context, we propose an imaging method for non-destructive testing of materials based on the combination of spectral X-ray CT and discrete tomography. We explore the use of spectral X-ray attenuation models and measurements to recover the characteristic functions of materials in heterogeneous media with piece-wise uniform composition. We show by means of numerical simulation that using spectral measurements from a small number of angles, our approach can alleviate the typical deterioration of spatial resolution and the appearance of streaking artifacts.

The interest in random fiber lasers (RFLs), first demonstrated one decade ago, is still growing and their basic characteristics have been studied by several authors. RFLs are open systems that present instabilities in the intensity fluctuations due to the energy exchange among their non-orthogonal quasi-modes. In this work, we present a review of the recent investigations on the output characteristics of a continuous-wave erbium-doped RFL, with emphasis on the statistical behavior of the emitted intensity fluctuations. A progression from the Gaussian to Lévy and back to the Gaussian statistical regime was observed by increasing the excitation laser power from below to above the RFL threshold. By analyzing the RFL output intensity fluctuations, the probability density function of emission intensities was determined, and its correspondence with the experimental results was identified, enabling a clear demonstration of the analogy between the RFL phenomenon and the spin-glass phase transition. A replica-symmetry-breaking phase above the RFL threshold was characterized and the glassy behavior of the emitted light was established. We also discuss perspectives for future investigations on RFL systems.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related mortality worldwide. In order to improve its overall survival, early diagnosis is required. Since current screening methods still face some pitfalls, such as high false positive rates for low-dose computed tomography, researchers are still looking for early biomarkers to complement existing screening techniques in order to provide a safe, faster and more accurate diagnosis. Biomarkers are biological molecules found in body fluids, such as plasma, that can be used to diagnose a condition or disease. Metabolomics has already shown to be a powerful tool in the search for cancer biomarkers since cancer cells are characterised by impaired metabolism, resulting in an adapted plasma metabolite profile. The metabolite profile can be determined using nuclear magnetic resonance, or NMR. Although metabolomics and NMR metabolite profiling of blood plasma are still under investigation, there is already evidence for its potential for early-stage lung cancer diagnosis, therapy response, and follow-up monitoring. This review highlights some key breakthroughs in this research field, where the most significant biomarkers will be discussed in relation with their metabolic pathways and in light of the altered cancer metabolism.

The implementation of management systems has become a strategic advantage in achieving business goals, especially in industrial organizations, but the implementation of social responsibility requirements is especially ethical. Large multinational companies have long been developing and, in particular, implementing their own codes of conduct, which include their suppliers, to demonstrate their commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The compliance with CSR requirements from stakeholders is thus extended or intertwined with requirements in established management systems (MSs). The objectives of the study were to (1) analyze the different approaches to CSR in internationally recognized cross-industry and industry-specific standards and codes in different industries; (2) select the most appropriate framework for assessing the degree of applicability of CSR in the selected management systems and develop a methodology for its assessment; (3) apply the proposed methodology (referred to as SRIMS) in the selected areas: automotive industry, research organization, and metallurgical industry; (4) through ANOVA, validate its use for assessing the overall level of CSR applicability in an organization's established management systems. The application of the Bonferroni method confirmed the hypotheses that the developed SRIMS model is a sufficiently appropriate tool for assessing the overall level of applicability of CSR requirements to established MSs.

Ulleung County, one of the most medically vulnerable areas in South Korea, requires public attention because of the high incidence of liver cancer. This study was conducted as a part of the Ulleung Liver Cancer Prevention and Management Project. The purpose of this study was to estimate the community prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses and to identify the associated risk factors. The Project’s interagency workgroup established a procedure for conducting blood sampling and health behavior surveys at the Ulleung Public Community Health Center. A total of 1,792 residents aged 40 years and older voluntarily participated in the study between 2019 and 2022. The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBs Ag) and hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) positive rates in Ulleung were 7.19% and 1.37%, respectively. Low education level and lifetime smoking were associated with HBsAg positivity, whereas cupping therapy at non-medical institutions was associated with anti-HCV positivity. The odds of HBs Ag positivity were lower among those with tattoos than among those without. There was a difference in the risk factors associated with hepatitis B and C viral infection. While a high HBs Ag positivity rate alone may not fully explain the high incidence of liver cancer in Ulleung, it may be a contributing factor.

Over 250 million people are infected chronically with hepatitis B virus (HBV), the leading cause of liver cancer worldwide. HBV persists due in part to its compact, stable minichromosome, the covalently-closed, circular DNA (cccDNA), which resides in the hepatocytes’ nuclei. Current therapies target downstream replication products, however, a true virological cure will require targeting the cccDNA. Finding targets on such a small, compact genome is challenging. For HBV, to remain replication-competent, it needs to maintain nucleotide fidelity in key regions, such as the promoter regions, to ensure that it can continue to utilize the necessary host proteins. HBVdb (HBV database) is a repository of HBV sequences spanning all genotypes (A-H) amplified from clinical samples, and hence implying an extensive collection of replication-competent viruses. Here, we analyzed the HBV sequences from HBVdb using bioinformatics tools to comprehensively assess the HBV core and X promoter regions amongst the nearly 70,000 HBV sequences for highly-conserved nucleotides and variant frequencies. Notably, there is a high degree of nucleotide conservation within specific segments of these promoter regions highlighting their importance in potential host protein-viral interactions and thus the virus’ viability. Such findings may have key implications for designing antivirals to target these areas.

Annually, more than 1.5 million preventable new hepatitis B (HBV) infections continue to occur, with an estimated global burden of 296 million individuals living with chronic hepatitis B infection. This substantial health challenge results in over 820,000 annual deaths attributed to complications such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV vaccination remains the cornerstone of public health policy to prevent chronic hepatitis B and its related complications. It serves as a crucial element in the global effort to eliminate HBV, as established by the World Health Organization (WHO), with an ambitious 90% vaccination target by 2030. However, reports on global birth dose coverage reveal substantial variability, with an overall coverage rate of only 46%. This comprehensive review thoroughly examines global trends in HBV vaccination coverage, investigating the profound impact of vaccination on HBV prevalence and its consequences across diverse populations, including both high-risk and general demographics. Additionally, the review addresses the formidable challenges and facilitating factors essential for achieving WHO's HBV vaccination coverage objectives and elimination strategies in the coming decade and beyond.

Developmental hazard evaluation is an important part of assessing chemical risks during pregnancy. Toxicological outcomes from prenatal testing in pregnant animals result from complex chemical-biological interactions, and while New Approach Methods (NAMs) based on in vitro bioactivity profiles of human cells offer promising alternatives to animal testing, most of these assays lack cellular positional information, physical constraints, and regional organization of the intact embryo. Here, we engineered a fully computable model of the embryonic disc in the compucell3d.org modeling environment to simulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition of epiblast cells and self-organization of mesodermal domains (chordamesoderm, paraxial, lateral plate, posterior/extraembryonic). Cell fate in the model is determined by an autonomous homeobox (HOX) clock driven by morphogenetic signals (e.g., FGF, WNT, ATRA, CDX). Executing the model renders a quantitative cell-level computation of mesodermal subpopulations and consequences of perturbation based on known embryogeny. For example, synthetic perturbation of the control network rendered altered phenotypes (cybermorphs) mirroring experimental mouse embryology, with 50% reductions in FGF4, FGF8 and BMP4 signaling resulting in 86%, 98% and 59% reductions, respectively in the posterior mesodermal population, while ATRA exposure also resulted in a 78% decrease in this population. This model enables integration of in vitro chemical bioactivity data for specific molecular targets with known embryology to test mechanistic veracity and quantitative prediction of altered development.

Non-suicidal self-injurious behavior (NSSI), prevalent in patients with non-psychotic mental disorders (NPMD), is associated with numerous adverse outcomes. Despite active research into the clinical and psychological aspects of NSSI, the underlying biological mechanisms remain obscure. Early adverse experiences are believed to induce long-lasting changes in neuroendocrine mechanisms of stress control playing a key role in NSSI development. The aim of the study was to evaluate parameters potentially predicting development of NSSI in female patients with NPMD. Eighty female patients over 18 years with NPMD and suicidal ideation (40 with and 40 without NSSI) and 48 age matching women without evidence of mental illness (healthy controls) were enrolled. Diagnostic interviews and self-report measures were used to assess childhood maltreatment, presence, frequency, and characteristics of suicidal and self-injurious thoughts and behaviors, the Beck Depression Inventory scale to assess severity of depression. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis markers, hormones, and neurotrophic factors were measured in blood serum. The likelihood of developing NSSI in patients with NPMD was associated with early adverse family history and elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone levels. Dysregulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis as a result of early chronic stress experiences may represent critical biological mechanism promoting the development of NSSI behaviors in patients with NPMD.

This article is about a framework for determining the degree of realism of any given 1 passenger ride motion discomfort measurement formula. After providing some context and reviewing 2 evidence of deficiency in currently popular ride motion discomfort measurement formulas, the article 3 outlines the research program that needs to be carried out in order to establish such a framework. 4 The research begins with gathering recordings of uncomfortable ride motion episodes encountered in 5 a chosen type of passenger transport service. It then has test subjects compare the episodes via a ride 6 motion simulator and adjust their amplitudes pair wise until they cause equal discomfort. It explains 7 how to take the pair wise amplitude adjustments and determine amplitude adjustments that bring all 8 of the motion episode recordings to a common level of discomfort so that they form a normalized set. 9 Then, the lower the scatter of the scores assigned by any given discomfort measurement formula to 10 the members of that set, the more realistic that formula will be for the chosen service.

Astrocytes have been implicated in a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases, with the literature indicating harmful or beneficial roles on a case-by-case basis. On such conditions, these cells are capable of secreting several inflammatory factors and also promote synapse elimination and remodeling. These responses are possible because they sense their surroundings via several receptors, including metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR5). However, mGluR5 activation in astrocytes under neuroinflammatory conditions can be neuroprotective or have the opposite effect. In this work, we investigated the role of mGluR5 in hiPSC-derived astrocytes subjected to pro-inflammatory stimulation by recombinant TNF-α (rTNF-α). Our results show that mGluR5 blockade by CTEP is capable of reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α) release in rTNF-α-stimulated astrocytes, but, in contrast, leads to an augmented expression of the pan-reactive marker SERPINA3. Additionally, CTEP enhances synaptoneurosomes phagocytosis by astrocytes in both non-stimulated and TNF-α-stimulated conditions, indicating that mGluR5 blockade alone is enough to drive synaptic material engulfment. Finally, mGluR5 antagonism as well as rTNF-α stimulation leads to a reduction in the expression of synaptogenic molecules. Altogether, these data suggest a complex role for mGluR5 in human astrocytes, since its blockage may have beneficial and detrimental effects under inflammatory conditions.

Prime numbers are the atoms of mathematics and mathematics is needed to make sense of the real world. Finding the Prime number structure and eventually being able to crack their code is the ultimate goal in what is called Number Theory. From the evolution of species to cryptography, Nature finds help in Prime numbers. One of the most important advances in the study of Prime numbers was the paper by Bernhard Riemann in November 1859 called “Ueber die Anzahl der Primzahlen unter einer gegebenen Grösse” (On the number of primes less than a given quantity). In that paper, Riemann gave a formula for the number of primes less than x in terms the integral of 1/log(x) and the roots (zeros) of the zeta function defined by: Where ζ(z) is a function of a complex variable z that analytically continues the Dirichlet series. Riemann also formulated a conjecture about the location of the zeros of RZF, which fall into two classes: the "trivial zeros" -2, -4, -6, etc., and those whose real part lies between 0 and 1. Riemann's conjecture Riemann hypothesis [RH] was formulated as this: [RH] The real part of every nontrivial zero z* of the RZF is 1/2. Proving the RH is, as of today, one of the most important problems in mathematics. In this paper we will provide a proof of the RH. The proof of the RH will be built following these five parts: PART 1: Description of the RZF PART 2: The C-transformation PART 3: Application of the C-transformation to in Re(z) 0 to obtain ζ(z)=X(z)-Y(z) PART 4: Analysis of the values of z such that X(z)=Y(z), and |X(z)|=|Y(z)|, that equates to ζ(z)=0 Proof that |X(z)|=|Y(z)| only if Re(z)=1/2 Conclude that ζ(z)=0 only if Re(z)=1/2 for Re(z) 0 PART 5: We will also prove that all non-trivial zeros of ζ(z) in the critical line of the form are not distributed randomly. There is a relationship between the values of those zeros and the Harmonic function that leads to an algebraic relationship between any two zeros.

Melting, solidification and viscosity properties of a multicomponent Fe-Cu-Nb-Mo-Si-B alloys with low aluminum addition up to 0.42 at.% Al were studied using an oscillating cup viscometer. It is shown that melting and solidification are divided into two stages with a knee point at 1461 K. The temperature dependences of the liquid fraction between the liquidus and solidus temperatures during melting and solidification are calculated. It has been proven that aluminum accelerates the processes of melting and solidification and leads to an increase in liquidus and solidus temperatures. In the liquid state at temperatures above 1700 K in an alloy with a low aluminum content, the activation energy of viscous flow increases. This growth was associated with the liquid – liquid structure transition caused by the formation of large clusters based on the metastable Fe23B6 phase. Aluminum atoms attract iron and boron atoms and contribute to the formation of clusters based on the Fe2AlB2 phase and metastable phases of a higher order.

In this paper, a multi-mode waveguide-based optical resonator is proposed for an integrated optical refractive index sensor. Conventional optical resonators have been studied for single-mode waveguide-based resonators to enhance the performance, but mass production is limited owing to the high fabrication costs of nano-scale structures. To overcome this problem, we designed an S-bend resonator based on a micro-scale multi-mode waveguide. In general, multi-mode waveguides cannot be utilized as optical resonators, because of a performance degradation resulting from modal dispersion and an output transmission with multi-peaks. Therefore, we exploited the mode discrimination phenomenon using the bending loss, and the resulting S-bend resonator yielded an output transmission without multi-peaks. This phenomenon is utilized to remove higher-order modes efficiently using the difference in the effective refractive index between the higher-order and fundamental modes. As a result, the resonator achieved a Q-factor and sensitivity of 2.3x10³ and 52 nm/RIU, respectively, using the variational finite-difference time-domain method. These results show that the multi-mode waveguide-based S-bend resonator with a wide line width can be utilized as a refractive index sensor.

The cosmetic industry recognizes the importance of natural sources for functional active constit-uents in meeting consumer expectations for safer and more sustainable beauty care products. Ma-rine macroalgae have emerged as promising resources, offering diverse bioactive constituents with potential applications in cosmetics. In this study, we investigated the biochemical profile of Padina boergesenii, a marine macroalga, using various methods to assess its potential as a cosmetic ingre-dient. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis revealed the presence of distinct bioactive functional groups associated with numerous skin-beneficial compounds. Furthermore, the ethanolic and methanolic extracts of P. boergesenii were subjected to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrom-etry (GC-MS) analysis, which identified a total of six and fifteen significant phytocompounds, re-spectively. Additionally, a comprehensive phytochemical profiling of P. boergesenii was performed using High-Resolution Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Quadrupole Time-of-Flight (HRLCMS-Q-TOF), highlighting the presence of various terpenoids, alkaloids, peptides, fatty acids, derivatives, and coumarins with potential cosmetic applications. To further assess its potential as a cosmetic ingredient, P. boergesenii was subjected to several additional estimations. Pigment estima-tion revealed the presence of specific pigments, while the determination of total phenol content and total protein content highlighted the richness of these bioactive components. The antioxidant analysis using the DPPH method demonstrated the antioxidant potential of P. boergesenii extracts, suggesting their ability to combat oxidative stress-related skin damage. Moreover, the tyrosinase inhibition assay indicated the inhibitory effect of P. boergesenii extracts on tyrosinase activity, which is relevant for addressing hyperpigmentation concerns. Furthermore, the elemental composition of P. boergesenii was evaluated using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES), revealing that silicon (Si) exhibited the highest concentration among the measured elements, while copper (Cu) displayed the lowest concentration. Additionally, HRLCMS-Q-TOF analysis was employed to quantify 21 amino acids, with aspartic acid exhibiting the highest con-centration (2034.99 nmol/mL), and tyrosine demonstrating the lowest concentration (233.26 nmol/mL). The accuracy of all the measured elements and amino acids was deemed acceptable. Taken together, the findings of this study highlight the potential of P. boergesenii as an effective ingredient for enhancing skin health. The incorporation of seaweed-based bioactive components, such as P. boergesenii, into cosmetic products is increasingly common due to their beneficial effects on the skin. Further exploration of the potential applications of P. boergesenii in the cosmetics in-dustry is warranted to harness its valuable bioactive properties.

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) comprise a diverse class of non-protein coding transcripts that regulate critical cellular processes associated with cancer. Advances in RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) have led to the characterization of non-coding RNA expression across different types of human cancers. Through comprehensive RNA-Seq profiling, a growing number of studies demonstrate that ncRNAs, including long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNA), play central roles in progenitor B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL) pathogenesis. Furthermore, due to their central roles in cellular homeostasis and their potential as biomarkers, the study of ncRNAs continues to provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms of B-ALL. This article reviews the ncRNA signatures reported for all B-ALL subtypes, focusing on technological developments in transcriptome profiling and recently discovered examples of ncRNAs with biologic and therapeutic relevance in B-ALL.

The COVID-19 pandemic over the past years has shown a great need for rapid, low-cost and on-site detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this paper, an aptamer-based colloidal gold nanoparticle lateral flow test strip was well developed to realize the visual detection of wild type SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) and multiple variants. Under the optimal reaction conditions, a low detection limit of SARS-CoV-2 S protein of 0.68 nM was acquired, and the actual detection recovery was 83.3% to 108.8% for real world samples. This suggests a potential tool for the prompt detection of SARS-CoV-2 with good sensitivity and accuracy, and a new method for the development of alternative antibody test strips for the detection of other viral targets.

This research assesses the classification of Arabic coffee into three primary variations (light, medium, and dark) using simulated data based on actual measurements of color information, antioxidant laboratory tests, and chemical composition tests. Two types of simulated data were generated, with the standard deviation of the measures varied. Multiple classifiers were used for classification. The findings demonstrate the use of color information in accurately distinguishing Arabic coffee types. The different CIE color values, as well as the excellent connection between color information and coffee classes, lead to flawless classification results. However, depending primarily on antioxidant information results in lower classification performance, with variability amongst classifiers due to increasing data complexity. Chemical composition information, on the other hand, possesses outstanding discriminatory strength, allowing faultless classification on its own. Certain characteristics, such as crude protein and crude fiber, show strong correlations and are critical in the classification of coffee types. Based on the findings, it is recommended to create a mobile application that uses image recognition to analyze coffee color while providing chemical composition information. End users, such as consumers, will be able to make informed judgments regarding their coffee preferences owing to this application.

Background: Telomere length (TL) shortening process is associated with several known environment and individual determinants. DNA methylation is the most studied epigenetic process and may be associated with TL. We investigated the associations between DNA methylation and TL in peripheral blood. Methods: Methylation wide association study was conducted in 47 women (37.1±8.8 years) with different nutritional status. Association between TL and DNA methylation levels were explored by univariate and multiple linear regression models, corrected by age and Body Mass Index. Corrections for multiple comparisons by Benjamini‐Hochberg test was also performed. WEBGestalt was used to identify pathways that are responsible for regulating TL. Results: We found negative correlations between TL and BMI (r = -0.641; p = 0.001), abdominal circumference (r = -0.622; p = 0.001) and fat mass (r = -0.656; p = 0.001). 44 CpGs sites were associated with TL, independent of age and BMI. The most of these sites were negatively correlated with TL. For the 7 remained sites, DNA hypomethylation were associated with shorter TL. These CpGs were related to nine different pathways, including thermogenesis, cancer, glutamatergic and serotonergic synapse. Conclusion: There is an epigenetic contribution in TL, independent of nutritional status and age. Genes related to TL are involved in important metabolic pathways.

The Hepatitis B virus, chronically infects over 240 million persons worldwide. The Hepatitis B vaccine is 90% effective in preventing perinatal transmission if the first dose is given within the first 24 hours of life followed by a minimum of 2 subsequent doses. In October 2021, Antigua and Barbuda, through it’s only public hospital - the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, instituted a hospital based Hepatitis B vaccine birth dose policy. Timely birth dose coverage was 72% and total birth dose coverage 81%. 10.5% of parents refused the hepatitis b – birth dose, of which 76% either felt uncomfortable or preferred to wait. 100% of babies born before arrival received timely vaccine administration, likewise 100% of Hepatitis B exposed babies were vaccinated, with 83% of them receiving the Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin. A maternal Hepatitis B surface antigen result was available for 90.4% of mothers. Barriers to timely birth dose administration included vaccination hesitancy, gaps in healthcare worker knowledge, and the consistent supply of Hepatitis B vaccine. Instituting a quality improvement team, health information system, robust educational efforts, and addressing barriers will make achieving the WHO programmatic targets of eliminating mother to child transmission of hepatitis B by 2030 possible.

Lithium sulfur (Li–S) batteries are expected to be very useful for next-generation transportation and grid storage because of their high energy density and low cost. However, their low active material utilization and poor cycle life limit their practical application. The use of a carbon-coated separator in these batteries serves to inhibit the migration of the lithium polysulfide intermediate and increases the recyclability. We report the extent to which the electrochemical performance of Li–S battery systems depends on the characteristics of the carbon coating of the separator. Carbon-coated separators containing different ratios of carbon black (Super-P) and vapor-grown-carbon-fibers (VGCF) were prepared and evaluated in Li–S batteries. The results showed that larger amounts of Super-P on the carbon-coated separator enhanced the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries; for instance, the pure Super-P coating exhibited the highest discharge capacity (602.1 mAh g-1 at 150 cycles) with a Coulombic efficiency exceeding 95%. Furthermore, the separators with the pure Super-P coating had a smaller pore structure, and hence limited polysulfide migration, compared to separators containing Super-P/VGCF mixtures. These results indicate that it is necessary to control the porosity of the porous membrane to control the movement of the lithium polysulfide.

Influenza B virus (IBV) is a major respiratory pathogen of humans, particularly in the elderly and children and vaccines are the most effective way to control it. In previous work, incorporation of two mutations (E580G, S660A) along with the addition of a HA epitope tag in the PB1 segment of B/Brisbane/60/2008 (B/Bris) resulted in an attenuated strain that was safe and effective as a live attenuated vaccine. A third attempted mutation (K391E) in PB1 was not always stable. Interestingly, viruses that maintained the K391E mutation were associated with the mutation E48K. To explore the contribution of the E48K mutation for stability of the K391E mutation, a vaccine candidate was generated by inserting both mutations along with attenuating mutations E580G and S660A in PB1 of B/Bris (B/Bris PB1att 4M). Serial passage of the B/Bris PB1att 4M vaccine candidate in eggs and MDCK indicated high stability. In silico structural analysis revealed a potential interaction between amino acids at positions 48 and 391. In mice, B/Bris PB1att 4M was safe and provided complete protection against homologous challenge. These results confirm the compensatory effect of mutation E48K to stabilize the K391E mutation, resulting in a safer, yet still protective, IBV LAIV vaccine.

Nonhost disease resistance is the most common type of plant defense mechanism against potential pathogens. In this study, the metabolic enzyme formate dehydrogenase (FDH1) was identified to be involved in nonhost disease resistance in Nicotiana benthamiana and Arabidopsis thaliana. In Arabidopsis, AtFDH1 was highly upregulated in response to both host and nonhost bacterial pathogens. Arabidopsis Atfdh1 mutants were compromised in nonhost resistance, basal resistance, and gene-for-gene resistance. The expression patterns of salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) marker genes after pathogen infections in Atfdh1 mutant indicated that SA is most likely involved in the FDH1-mediated plant defense response to both host and nonhost bacterial pathogens. Previous studies reported that FDH1 localizes to only mitochondria, or both mitochondria and chloroplasts. Our results showed that the AtFDH1 localized to mitochondria and the amount of FDH1 localized to mitochondria increased upon infection with host or nonhost pathogens. Interestingly, the subcellular localization of FDH1 was observed in both mitochondria and chloroplasts after infection with a nonhost pathogen in Arabidopsis. We speculate that FDH1 plays a role in cellular signaling networks between mitochondria and chloroplasts to produce coordinated defense responses such as SA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and hypersensitive response (HR)-induced cell death against nonhost bacterial pathogens.

Migraine is a primary headache disorder with a prevalence of 11.6% globally and 27% in Saudi Arabia. Irritable bowel syndrome has a prevalence of 9.2% worldwide. The prevalence of IBS has not been established nationally. However, provincial studies for both migraine and IBS have been conducted across the nation. There is a significant link between migraines and IBS globally. This identifies an association that needs to be investigated in a nationwide manner. This study aims to observe the association and the relationship between migraine and irritable bowel syndrome in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted between March 2021 to June 2021 among the general population of Saudi Arabia, whose ages are 15 years old or greater. The data collection tools included MS-Q for migraine symptoms, MIGSEV scale for severity of migraine, and The IBS module of the Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire (R4DQ) for IBS symptoms and its subtype. With a total of 2802 participants, the majority of the study sample were males, who constituted 52.5%. Among the study's sample, the prevalence of migraine consisted of 27.4%, and the prevalence of IBS was 16.4%. The odds of having IBS in migraineurs were much higher than in those without migraines (OR 4.127; 95% CI 3.325-5.121), and the association was statistically significant (P&lt;0.001). In conclusion, there is a strong association between migraine and irritable bowel syndrome in Saudi Arabia.

Rates of gestational cannabis use have increased despite limited evidence for its safety in fetal life. Recent animal studies demonstrate that prenatal exposure to 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (9-THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis) promotes intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), culminating in postnatal metabolic deficits. Given IUGR is associated with impaired hepatic function, we hypothesized that 9-THC offspring would exhibit hepatic dyslipidemia. Pregnant Wistar rat dams received daily injections of vehicular control or 3 mg/kg 9-THC i.p. from embryonic day (E) 6.5 through E22. Exposure to 9-THC decreased the liver to body weight ratio at birth, followed by catch-up growth by three weeks of age. At six months, 9-THC-exposed male offspring exhibited increased visceral adiposity and higher hepatic triglycerides. This was instigated by augmented expression of enzymes involved in triglyceride synthesis (ACC, SCD, FABP1, and DGAT2) at three weeks. Furthermore, the expression of hepatic DGAT1/DGAT2 was sustained at six months, concomitant with mitochondrial dysfunction (i.e., elevated p66shc) and oxidative stress. Interestingly, decreases in miR-203a-3p and miR-29a/b/c, both implicated in dyslipidemia, was also observed in these 9-THC-exposed offspring. Collectively, these findings indicate that prenatal 9-THC exposure results in long-term dyslipidemia associated with enhanced hepatic lipogenesis. This is attributed by mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic mechanisms.

Products derived from Cannabis sativa have gained increased interest and popularity. As these products become common amongst the public, the heath and potential therapeutic values associated with hemp have become a premier focus of research. While the psychoactive and medicinal properties of Cannabis products have been extensively highlighted in literature, the antibacterial properties of CBD have not been explored in depth. This research serves to examine the antibacterial potential of CBD against Salmonella newington and Salmonella typhimurium. In this study we observed bacterial response to CBD exposure through biological assays, bacterial kinetics, and fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, comparative studies between CBD and ampicillin were conducted against Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella newington to determine comparative efficacy. Furthermore, we observed potential resistance development of our Salmonella spp. against CBD treatment.

A simple and rapid positive–negative colorimetric approach to determine the presence of antimony ions based on the use of gold nanoparticles conjugated with oligonucleotide (poly-A sequence) is developed. Colorimetric measurements reveal that the aggregates of modified gold nanoparticles were afforded after adding antimony ions, thus changing the solution color from pink to blue. The results of aptamer’s interaction on the gold nanoparticle surface with target analyte can be detected either by photometry or by the naked eye. The realized assay provides rapid (2 min), sensitive (detection limit 10 ng/mL), specific, and precise (variation coefficient less than 3.8%) detection of antimony (III) in drinking water

Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin disease, which occurs due to inflammation of the hair follicles and sebum producing (sebaceous) glands of the skin called pilosebaceous unit and the anaerobic propionic acne bacterium, P.acne. Human sebum is dominantly made up of 57.5% of triglycerides and fatty acids, 26%wax esters, 12% Squalene and 4.5% Cholesterol. The increased level Androgen hormone, sebum lipid composition, P.acne over growth which induces monocytes and pro inflammatory cytokines attracts neutrophils, basophils, and T cells to the pilosebaceous unit and drive epithelial hyper proliferation i.e., Acne vulgaris. The actual biomolecular changes due to acne vulgaris disease are present in the blood, in the sebum, and in the noninvasive sample of human scalp hair follicles. The main objectives of the present study are to analyze human scalp hair follicles samples using FTIR-ATR spectroscopy to compare and discriminate the spectral signatures of acne vulgaris and healthy scalp hair tissue samples through acne biomarkers Protein, Amide I, Amide II and Squalene (LDL), using the method of internal ratio parameters. This work represents a first step in the development of an analytical tool for future drug development.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has proven to be effective in reducing the rate of recurrence and disease as secondary prevention (evidence-based intervention) in patients who have suffered from myocardial infarction (MI). CR is a multidisciplinary path in which the patient is followed pharmacologically, from a psychological, nutritional, nursing and physiotherapy point of view. Post-MI patients present a reduction in the performance of the diaphragm muscle, the main inspiratory muscle, and this condition can become a risk factor for further relapses or for the onset of heart failure. Despite the solidity of the international guidelines for CR, the latter are lacking in specifically indicating an evaluation and training path regarding the inspiratory muscles in post-MI patients who have not undergone cardiac surgery. The article reviews the information on the adaptation of the diaphragm post-MI and highlights the need for clearer indications for a rehabilitation process that gives importance to the diaphragm.

Hearing loss (HL) is a major clinical, population and public health leading to serious disorders and often early mortality. However, there is a significant paucity in high quality data. Saudi Arabia has a genetically uniform and young population; however factors and estimates on prevalence of HL remains unknown. Background/Objectives: we aimed to determine the frequency, factors, and patterns of HL in different regions. Methods: this study was a descriptive cross-sectional design using a web-based online public questionnaire sent out simultaneously to different regions of Saudi Arabia; namely Eastern, Western, Northen, and Southern as self-administered non-probability sample of social media users mainly WhatsApp, Twitter, and others. Results: Among 789 responses, 6.6 % reported HL, 62.4% were from the Eastern province of which 41.2% were employed and 31.7% were students. Many (36.5%) reported HL &gt; 5-years while 21.2% had programmed and fitted with hearing aids or cochlear implants implying negligence. 19.2% reported diabetes and 51.9% had family history. Ages (11– 50 years) were examined with a slight female predominance (females 59.1%, males 41%). Age was significantly associated with HL (P &lt;0.001) irrespective of gender (males 6.8%, females 6.4%, P value =0.838) reaching peaks at 17.2% in age groups 51-60 years and 25% in 71-80 indicating a risk for HL (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 0.78-2.81, p = 0.032). Genetic diseases reported as leading cause in 34.6% (OR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.34-3.58, p = 0.432) followed by noise (26.9%), while other factors including infections, stroke, and fevers made 19.2%. Work involving air or sea travels reported (7.7%) with no significant association (P = 0.628) while history of head injury or trauma (11.5%), or relocation between low- and high-altitudes showed 21.2%. However, frequent noise pollution (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 0.83-3.01, p = 0.048), regular use of medications (OR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.03-3.32, p = 0.017), and history of inflammatory disorders (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.32-1.87, p = 0.229) were also associated with higher odds of HL. Conclusion: thus, these findings have significant clinical implications in early diagnosis and management of HL in genetic disorders, diabetes, geriatrics, as well as awareness on family history and occupational health and safety. The study was limited in size and use of online questionnaires. Future large cohort multicenter study would gain more insights.

During chronic liver injury, inflammation leads to liver fibrosis— particularly due to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). However, the involvement of inflammatory cytokines in HSC activation and the relationship among different liver cells is unclear. To examine their interactions, many in vitro liver models are performed in organoid or spheroid culture with random 3D structure, complicating analysis. Herein, we demonstrated the hierarchical coculture of primary rat hepatocytes with non-parenchymal cells such as the human-derived HSC line (LX-2) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cell line (TMNK-1). The cocultured tissue had high usability with simple operation of separating solid and liquid phases with improved liver functions such as albumin production and hepatic cytochrome P450 3A4 activity. We also studied the effects of stimulation by both oxygen tension and the key pro-fibrogenic cytokine, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), on HSC activation. Gene expression analysis revealed that lower oxygen tension and TGF-β1 stimulation enhanced collagen type I and alpha-smooth muscle actin expression from LX-2 cells in the hierarchical coculture. Therefore, this hierarchical in vitro cocultured liver tissue could provide an improved platform as a disease model for elucidating the interactions of various liver cell types and biochemical signals in future liver fibrogenesis studies.

Sachet water (SW) is a major source of drinking water in most Nigerian homes, thus making it a possible conveyance medium for health risks due to contamination rather than for replenishment of the body. This study collected SW from three busy neighborhoods and investigated for the presence of indicator bacteria – Escherichia coli (E. coli), Total Coliform (TC), Total Heterophilic Bacteria (THB), and Staphylococcus – and some physio-chemical parameters – total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and salinity. Multi-variable and exploratory statistical methods were applied to the results to determine correlations between bacterial contamination levels and perceived brand reputation. Bacteriological test with raw SW samples appeared too numerous to count (TNC) and thus required serial dilutions. After seven dilutions, results obtained revealed that SW brands with good reputation had no TC and E. coli and was statistically significant with groupings of other SW brands (χ2 = 12.28; p < 0.05 and χ2 = 37.96; p < 0.05) respectively. Additionally, SW brands with poor reputation had mean values of TC (19.7X10^8 cfu/ml;14X10^8 cfu/ml1.15X10^8 cfu/ml) and E.coli (18.2X10^8 cfu/ml;38.7X10^8 cfu/ml,32.4X10^8 cfu/ml) exceeding threshold value of zero set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Only one sample from poor reputation brand tested positive for Staphylococcus and was not statistically significant (χ2 =5.2191; p = 0.074). Principal Component Analysis (PCA)/ Factor Analysis (FA) revealed that most of the SW had fecal contamination in an alarming magnitude. Therefore, this study suggests that periodic cleaning of distribution lines, location specific treatment, QC and QA measures should be taken to reduce water security risk for SW consumption in the region.

Mechanisms for somatic chromosomal mosaicism (SCM) and chromosomal instability (CIN) are incompletely understood. During SNP-array molecular karyotyping and bioinformatic analyses of children with neurodevelopmental disorders and congenital malformations (n=612), we observed colocalizaion of regular chromosomal imbalances or copy number variations (CNV) with mosaic ones (n=47 or 7.7%). Analyzing molecular karyotyping data and pathways affected by CNV burdens, we proposed a mechanism for SCM/CIN, which had been designated as “chromohelkosis” (from the Greek chromosome ulceration/open wound). Briefly, structural chromosomal imbalances are likely to cause local instability (“wreckage”) at the breakpoints, which results either to partial/whole chromosome loss (e.g. aneuploidy) or elongation of duplicated regions. Accordingly, a function for classical/alpha satellite DNA (protection from the wreckage towards the centromere) has been hypothesized. Since SCM and CIN are ubiquitously involved in development, homeostasis and disease (e.g. prenatal development, cancer, brain diseases, aging), we have metaphorically (ironically) designate the system explaining chromohelkosis contribution to SCM/CIN as the cytogenomic “theory of everything” like the homonymous theory in physics inasmuch as it might explain numerous phenomena in chromosome biology. Recognizing possible empirical and theoretical weaknesses of this “theory”, we nevertheless believe that studies of chromohelkosis-like processes are required to understand structural variability and flexibility of the genome.

Breeding for low hydrogen cyanide (HCN) varieties is a major objective of programmes targeting boiled cassava food product. To enhance breeding for low HCN, knowledge on genetic variation and trait heritability is essential. In this study, 64 cassava clones established across four locations and evaluated for HCN using three HCN assessment methods; 1 to 9 scale, 0 ppm to 800 ppm scale and a quantitative assay based on spectrophotometer readings (HCN_Spec). Data were also collected on the weather variables precipitation, relative humidity, and temperature. Significant differences were observed among clones (P &lt; 0.001) and locations (p &lt; 0.001). There were also significant (p &lt; 0. 001) clone by environment interactions. Locations Arua and Serere posted higher HCN scores among clones and were associated with significantly higher (p &lt; 0.001) mean daily temperature (K) and lower relative humidity (%) across 12-hour and 18-hour intervals. Within locations HCN broad sense heritability estimates ranged 0.22 – 0.64 while combined location heritability estimates ranged 0.14 to 0.32. Relationships between the methods were positive and strong (R2 = 0.75 – 0.92). It is expected that the information herein will accelerate efforts towards breeding for low HCN cassava varieties.

Micro-combs [1-4] - optical frequency combs generated by integrated micro-cavity resonators – offer the full potential of their bulk counterparts [5,6], but in an integrated footprint. The discovery of temporal soliton states (DKS – dissipative Kerr solitons) [4,7-11] as a means of mode-locking micro-combs has enabled breakthroughs in many fields including spectroscopy [12,13], microwave photonics [14], frequency synthesis [15], optical ranging [16,17], quantum sources [18,19], metrology [20,21] and more. One of their most promising applications has been optical fibre communications where they have enabled massively parallel ultrahigh capacity multiplexed data transmission [22,23]. Here, by using a new and powerful class of micro-comb called “soliton crystals” [11], we achieve unprecedented data transmission over standard optical fibre using a single integrated chip source. We demonstrate a line rate of 44.2 Terabits per second (Tb/s) using the telecommunications C-band at 1550nm with a spectral efficiency – a critically important performance metric - of 10.4 bits/s/Hz. Soliton crystals exhibit robust and stable generation and operation as well as a high intrinsic efficiency that, together with a low soliton micro-comb spacing of 48.9 GHz enable the use of a very high coherent data modulation format of 64 QAM (quadrature amplitude modulated). We demonstrate error free transmission over 75 km of standard optical fibre in the laboratory as well as in a field trial over an installed metropolitan optical fibre network. These experiments were greatly aided by the ability of the soliton crystals to operate without stabilization or feedback control. This work demonstrates the capability of optical soliton crystal micro-combs to perform in demanding and practical optical communications networks.

We assessed true bugs among above-groundand and soil inhabitants of four different biocoenosis of pine forests representing the intra-zone areas of flora and fauna of the Kazakh upland. 15 species of three families were listed for the Central Kazakhstan region for the first time. Species Eremocoris podagricus was not registered for the territory of Kazakhstan earlier. Fifteen species (50 %) were true above-ground inhabitants or ones living on grasses, whereas other species use soil surface and ground litter as temporary habitats. Drymus brunneus and Eremocoris fenestratus play a key role in the structure and function of the true bugs assemblages in the in biotopes studied. The ecological success of typically forest and boreal inhabitants in biotopes of arid region is explained by relict nature of forests and ancient connections with the taiga zone of Western Siberia and mountain forests of the Urals and Altai. The results of a comparative analysis of the similarities and differences of the dominant and ecological structures of Heteroptera complexes of aboriginal studied forests and derived type of forest are presented.

Viruses can induce the fusion of infected and neighboring cells, leading to the formation of syncytia. Cell-cell fusion is mediated by viral fusion proteins on the plasma membrane of infected cells that interact with cellular receptors on neighboring cells. Viruses use this mechanism to spread rapidly to adjacent cells or escape host immunity. For some viruses, syncytium formation is a hallmark of infection and a known pathogenicity factor. For others, the role of syncytium formation in viral dissemination and pathogenicity remains poorly understood. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in transplant patients and the leading cause of congenital infections. Clinical HCMV isolates have broad cell tropism but differ in their ability to induce cell-cell fusions, and little is known about the molecular determinants. We developed a system to analyze HCMV glycoprotein B (gB) variants in a defined genetic background. HCMV strains TB40/E and TR were used as vectors to compare the fusogenicity of six gB variants from congenitally infected fetuses with those from three laboratory strains. Five of them conferred the ability to induce fusion of MRC-5 human embryonic lung fibroblasts to one or both backbone strains, as determined by a split GFP-luciferase reporter system. The same gB variants were not sufficient to induce syncytia in infected ARPE-19 epithelial cells, suggesting that additional factors are involved. The system described here allows a systematic comparison of the fusogenicity of viral envelope glycoproteins and may help to clarify whether fusion-promoting variants are associated with increased pathogenicity.

This research paper presents a new application of electroactive polyimide doped with gold nanoparticles (PI/AuNPs) as a chemiresistor sensor for detecting hydrogen sulfide gas. The synthesis of PI/AuNPs was done in a simple 3-step process of polymerization using the as prepared amine-capped aniline trimer (ACAT), followed by imidization, and doping. Spectral analyses via FTIR, LC-MS and ¹H-NMR confirmed the formation of amine-capped aniline trimer with a MW of 288 g mol^-1. Comparison of ACAT, BSAA, and PI FTIR spectra showed successful polymerization of the last, while XRD validated the incorporation of metal nanoparticles onto the polymer matrix showing characteristic diffraction peaks corresponding to gold. Furthermore, TEM, and FE-SEM revealed the presence of well-dispersed Au nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 60nm. The electroactive PI/AuNPs-based sensor showed a sensitivity of 0.29% ppm^-1 H₂S at a linear concentration range of 50 to 300 ppm H₂S (r = 0.9777). The theoretical limit of detection was found at 0.142 ppm or 142 ppb H₂S gas. The sensor provided a stable response reading at an average response time of 43±5 seconds, which was easily recovered after an average time of 99±5 seconds. The sensor response was highly repeatable and reversible with RSD values of 8.88%, and 8.60%, respectively. Compared with the performance of the conventional conducting polyaniline also doped with gold nanoparticles (PANI/AuNPs), the fabricated electroactive PI/AuNPs exhibited improved sensing performance making it a potential candidate in monitoring H₂S in the environment and for work-related safety.

For the first time the gain switching properties of an InAs-InP (113)B quantum dot laser are examined theoretically in detail to generate shorter pulses with the application of a Gaussian pulse beam to the laser excited state. The multi population rate equations considering nonlinear gain are solved by the Runge –Kutta method. The numerical results demonstrated that as the homogeneous and the inhomogeneous broadening increase, the differential gain, the gain compression factor and the threshold current of excited state decrease, while threshold current of ground state increases. It was also observed that the contribution of the excited state to gain-switched output pulses depends on not only the value of the inhomogeneous broadening but also the magnitude of the applied current. Finally it was shown that without an optical beam, output pulse has long pulse width due to ground state emission, whereas with an optical beam, narrow pulses having high peak power owing to the excited state emission are generated even though at low currents.

Wastewater-Based Epidemiology (WBE) is currently used to monitor not only the spread of the pandemic virus SARS-CoV-2 but also for other viruses in endemic conditions, particularly in the absence of syndromic surveillance. Continuous monitoring of sewage requires high costs and significant time investment, highlighting the need for standardized methods and structured monitoring strategies. In this context, we conducted weekly wastewater monitoring in northwestern Italy, targeting Human Adenovirus (HAdV), Norovirus Genogroup II (NoVggII), Enterovirus (EV), and SARS-CoV-2. Samples collected at the entrance of treatment plants were concentrated using PEG/NaCl precipitation and viral nucleic acids were extracted and detected by real-time (RT-)qPCR. NoVggII resulted the most identified target (84.4%), followed by HAdV, SARS-CoV-2, and EV. Only HAdV and EV exhibited seasonal peaks in spring and summer. SARS-CoV-2 results compared with data previously collected in the same study area (February 2021 to September 2021) revealed a shift from an epidemic to a pandemic status, likely due to the evolution of variants. In conclusion, WBE, using standardized methods and an efficient monitoring strategy, proves valuable for virus surveillance in pandemic and epidemic scenarios, enabling the identification of temporal-local distribution patterns that are useful for making informed public health decision.

Nowadays, the identification and characterization of grapevine cultivars resilient to climate and water stress while preserving quality traits is crucial for the wine industry. Therefore, the objective of this work was to characterize according to their aromatic potential 9 white and 6 red minority cultivars recently recovered from Castilla-La Mancha region (Spain), subjected at two different water deficit regimes: rainfed, with subsistence irrigation, and irrigated. For this, the varietal aromatic potential index (IPAv) and the detailed aromatic composition were analyzed by HS-SBSE-GC/MS, in extracts of two different ph. For IPAv values, red varieties did not show a clear trend with respect to irrigation. However, in white minority varieties, higher values were obtained under irrigation conditions. Thus, a clear differentiation of the minority varieties in comparison to the references was observed, primarily attributed to the content of esters and acids, in both white and red varieties. A notable contrast was observed at different pH, indicating a greater extractability of certain compounds like linalool, under more acidic conditions. This suggests that some recovered minority cultivars could be promising for cultivation in semi-arid regions with limited water, contributing to the wine sector sustainability in the future.

Fabrics comprised of porous fibers could provide effective passive protection against chemical and biological (CB) threats whilst maintaining high air permeability (breathability). Here, we fabricate hierarchically porous fibers consisting of regenerated silk fibroin (RSF) and activated-carbon (AC) prepared through two fiber spinning techniques in combination with ice-templating – namely cryogenic solution blow spinning (Cryo-SBS) and cryogenic wet-spinning (Cryo-WS). The Cryo-WS RSF fibers had exceptionally small macropores (as low as 0.1 µm) and high specific surface areas (SSAs) of up to 79 m2 g-1. The incorporation of AC could further increase the SSA to 210 m2 g-1 (25 wt. % loading) whilst also increasing adsorption capacity for volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Combustion parameters are the important aspects in the development and research of an internal combustion engines. Hence present work is an attempt to develop an artificial neural network (ANN) model for anticipating the combustion characteristics of computerized CI DI VCR, four strokes, single cylinder, and water cooled engine using mixture of two biodiesel and diesel blends as a fuel. The two biodiesel selected are Jatropha and Simarouba and mixed in the ratio of 75:25. Two biodiesel mixtures is used for the preparation of various blends with diesel. Experiments are carried out at different compression ratio, at different % load and blends B20, B40, B60and neat diesel (B00) fuel to accumulate the assorted combustion data. The input variables are % load, compression ratio, blends and crank angle. The outputs well thought-out are cylinder pressure (CP), net heat release rate (NHRR), cumulative heat release (CHR), rate of pressure rise (RPR), mass fraction burned (MFB) and maximum cylinder pressure. The assessment is focused on developing artificial neural network for the prediction and verifying the combustion characteristics of engine. MATLAB software is used for analysis of different combustion aspects of the engine. Multilayer neural network perceptions are used with Feed-Forward Back Propagation algorithm with performance function for mapping the input and output parameters. The experimental outcomes are compared with ANN estimated results for the analysis. The outcome from the study authenticate that experimental results are in match with ANN results. The accuracy of the ANN model shows the developed model can effectively predict the engine combustion characteristics with excellent regression coefficients ‘R’ and its values are close to unity and the mean square errors are extremely less. ANN model approach is competent towards predicting the combustion aspect of diesel engine with good accuracy

Current interventions are not effectives in preventing sepsis-induced acute kidney injury and its long-term outcomes or even after second renal insult. Therapeutic strategies using lipid mediators, as aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 (ATRvD1), can contribute for resolution of acute and chronic inflammation. In this study, we examined the potential effect of ATRvD1 on long-term kidney dysfunction after severe sepsis. Fifteen days after cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), sepsis-surviving BALB/c mice were subjected to a tubulointerstitial injury through intraperitoneal injections of bovine serum albumin (BSA) for 7 days, called subclinical acute kidney injury (subAKI) animal model. ATRvD1 treatment was performed right before BSA injections. On day 22 after CLP, urinary protein/creatinine ratio (UPC), histologic parameters, fibrosis, cellular infiltration, apoptosis, inflammatory markers levels, and mRNA expression were determined. ATRvD1 treatment mitigated tubulointerstitial injury by reducing the proteinuria excretion, UPC ratio, glomerular cell number and extracellular matrix deposition. Pro-fibrotic markers, as transforming growth factor β (TGFb), type 3 collagen and metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and -9 were reduced after ATRvD1 administration. Post-septic mice treated with ATRvD1 were protected from renal apoptosis and recruitment of F4/80+ cells. Interleukin-1b (IL-1b) levels were increased in subAKI animal model, being attenuated by ATRvD1. Tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), IL-10 and IL-4 mRNA expression was increased in the kidney of BSA-challenged post-septic mice and it was also reduced after ATRvD1. These results suggest that ATRvD1 protects the kidney against a second insult as BSA-induced tubulointerstitial injury and fibrosis by suppressing inflammatory and pro-fibrotic mediators in renal dysfunction after sepsis.

Rare-earth tetraborides RB4 are of great interest due to the occurrence of geometric magnetic frustration and corresponding unusual magnetic properties. While the Gd3+ spins in GdB4 align along the ab plane, Er3+ spins in the isomorphic ErB4 are confined to the c–axis. The magnetization in the latter exhibits a plateau at the midpoint of the saturation magnetization. Therefore, solid solutions of (Gd, Er)B4 provide an excellent playground for exploring the intricate magnetic behavior in these compounds. Single crystals of Gd(1-x)Erx B4 (x = 0, 0.2, and 0.4) were grown in aluminum flux. X-ray diffraction scans revealed single phase materials, and a drop in the unit cell volume with increasing Er content, suggesting the partial substitution of Er at the Gd sites. Heat capacity measurements indicated a systematic decrease of the Néel temperature (TN) with increasing Er content. The effective magnetic moment determined from the magnetization measurement agreed with the calculated free-ion values for Gd3+ and Er3+, providing further evidence for the successful substitution of Er for Gd. The partial substitution resulted in an anomalous ferromagnetic phase below TN, exhibiting significant anisotropy, predominantly along the c-axis. This intriguing behavior merits further studies of the magnetism in the Gd(1-x)ErxB4 borides.

The present study was aimed at revealing the influence of the mechanical stress induced by water molecules adsorption on the composition of crystalline phases in the ZrO2–3mol%Y2O3-nanoparticles. Three basic methods have been used to determine the phase transition: neutron diffraction, Raman microspectroscopic scanning, and X-ray diffraction. The fact of phase-structural β → α transformation and the simultaneous presence of two polymorphic structural modifications (β is the phase of the tetragonal syngony and α of monoclinic syngony in nanosized particles (9nm)) under normal physical conditions was established by these methods. Satisfactory consistency was achieved between the results obtained using different techniques.

We have carried out a systematic review of the scientific literature published on PM and, more specifically, on its presence in fish and seafood of interest to the population from Mediterranean area. Given its preference and wide acceptability in the scientific community, we followed the PRISMA. The potential functional and clinical toxicity in humans due to MP in fish must be considered by the chemical composition of the microplastics the presence of PM and its additives, associated contaminants and pathogens in fish and shellfish, as well as the possible effects on human health, requires improving legislation on evaluation and providing a basis for consumer protection.

We sought to evaluate the effects of non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) on periodontal clinical parameters, systemic blood pressure (BP) and plasma levels of systemic inflammation markers in patients with combined refractory arterial hypertension (RAH) and stage III grade B periodontitis. Twenty-seven participants with RAH and periodontitis received NSPT. The analyzed clinical parameters were probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and plaque index (PI). An assessment was performed for systemic BP, complete blood count, coagulogram, creatinine measurement, C-reactive protein (CRP), glycated hemoglobin, cholesterol, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamate pyruvic transaminase, waist-hip ratio, and body mass index. In the follow-up period, twenty-two patients were evaluated at baseline and after 90 and 180 days. The data were submitted to statistical analysis (α=0.05%). As expected, the clinical results showed a significant improvement in the percentages of PI, BOP, PD and CAL, which were statistically significant at 90 and 180 days (p&lt;0.0001). Importantly, NSPT significantly reduced the blood level of CRP (p&lt;0.02). However, no significant reduction in BP parameters was noted in the evaluated follow-up periods. NSPT, despite the benefits in periodontal clinical parameters, reduced the plasma level of CRP but not the BP in patients with combined RAH and periodontitis.

Background: Despite their generally favorable prognosis, hepatic fibrosis remains a possible complication for hepatitis B virus (HBV) inactive carriers. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of significant fibrosis and associated risk factors among Omani HBV inactive carriers. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of 200 Omani HBV inactive carriers visiting a tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman, between January 2017 and December 2018. Significant fibrosis (stage F2 or higher) was identified using two-dimensional shear-wave elastography. Baseline clinical, laboratory, and radiological data were analyzed to determine associations. Results: Of the total sample, 106 patients (53%) were male, and the mean age was 44.6 ± 9.3 years. The prevalence of significant fibrosis was 20% (n = 40). Male gender (p = 0.007), age ≥60 years (p = 0.024), and fatty changes in liver ultrasound (p = 0.044) were found to be independent factors for significant fibrosis. Conclusion: the prevalence of significant fibrosis was relatively high among a sample of Omani HBV inactive carriers, with several sociodemographic and clinical risk factors identified. Periodic assessment of liver function is needed for patients with these risk factors; moreover, routine biochemical parameters could be useful predictors of disease prognosis. Further research is recommended to substantiate these findings.

Influenza B virus (IBV) is considered a major respiratory pathogen responsible for seasonal respiratory disease in humans, particularly severe in children and the elderly. Seasonal influenza vaccination is considered the most efficient strategy to prevent and control IBV infections. Live attenuated influenza virus vaccines (LAIVs) are thought to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses by mimicking a natural infection, but their effectiveness have recently come into question. Thus, the opportunity exists to find alternative approaches to improve overall influenza vaccine effectiveness. Two alternative IBV backbones were developed with re-arranged genomes, re-arranged M (FluB-RAM) and a re-arranged NS (FluB-RANS). Both re-arranged viruses showed temperature sensitivity in vitro compared to the WT type B/Bris strain, were genetically stable over multiple passages in embryonated chicken eggs and were attenuated in vivo in mice. In a prime-boost regime in naïve mice, both re-arranged viruses induced antibodies against HA with hemagglutination inhibition titers considered of protective value. In addition, antibodies against NA and NP were readily detected with potential protective value. Upon lethal IBV challenge, mice previously vaccinated with either FluB-RAM or FluB-RANS were completely protected against clinical disease and mortality. In conclusion, genome re-arrangement renders efficacious LAIV candidates to protect mice against IBV.

The removal of sulfur from fossil fuels is one of the most important processes in modern refineries. It is accomplished via hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of the sulfur organic compounds in presence of heterogeneous catalysts. In the current work, heterogeneous catalysts containing cobalt and mo-lybdenum supported on mesoporous materials type SBA-15 and AlSBA-15 were synthesized for application in the HDS reactions of thiophene in n-heptane stream. The mesoporous materials were synthesized by hydrothermal method starting from TEOS, pseudobohemite, hydrochloric ac-id and water. Pluronic P123 was used as template. The best calcination conditions for removal of the organic template were optimized by thermogravimetry analysis (TG/DTG). The calcined SBA-15 and AlSBA-15 supports were submitted to co-impregnation with solutions of cobalt nitrate and ammonium heptamolybdate, aiming the production of 15% in mass of metal loading with atomic ratio of [Co/(Co+Mo)]=0.45. The obtained materials were dried and calcined for obtaining the mesoporous catalysts in the form of CoMo/SBA-15 and CoMo/AlSBA-15. The catalysts were char-acterized by XRD, TG/DTG, SEM and nitrogen adsorption. From XRD analysis, it was verified that after decomposition of the cobalt and molybdenun salts, were formed MoO3, Co3O4 and Co-MoO4 oxides on the supports, being attributed to these chemical species the activity for the HDS reactions. The activity of the obtained catalysts was evaluated in a continuously flowing tubular fixed-bed microreactor coupled on-line to a gas chromatograph, using n-heptane stream contain-ing 12070 ppm of thiophene (ca. 5100 ppm of sulfur) as a model compound. From the catalytic tests it was verified that the synthesized catalysts presented good activity for the reaction, and the main obtained products were cis- and trans-2-butene, 1-butene, n-butane and low amounts of iso-butane. The presence of 1,3-butadiene and tetrahydrothiophene (THT) were not detected. A mechanism of the primary and secondary reactions and subsequent formation of the olefins and paraffins, in the CoMo/SBA-15 and CoMo/AlSBA-15 mesoporous catalysts were proposed, con-sidering steps of desulfurization, hydrogenation, dehydrogenation, THT decyclization and isomerization.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the dominant risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV X protein (HBx) plays crucial roles in HCC carcinogenesis. HBx interferes with several signaling pathways including Notch1 pathway in HCC. In our study, we found that Notch1 was highly expressed in HCC especially in large HCC. Notch1 and HBx co-localized in HCC and their levels were positively correlated with each other. Notch1 expression was more elevated in HepG2.2.15 than that in HepG2. HBx activated Notch1 pathway in HepG2.2.15. Repression of HBx and Notch1 pathway attenuated the growth of HepG2.2.15. Notch1, ERK and AKT pathways were inhibited after a γ-secretase inhibitor treatment. Dual-specificity phosphatase 1 (DUSP1) and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) were up-regulated after the γ-secretase inhibitor treatment and Hes1 inhibition. Luciferase reporter assays showed that Hes1 repressed the promoters of DUSP1 and PTEN and this was reverted by γ-secretase inhibitor treatment. Western blotting demonstrated that DUSP1 dephosphorylated pERK and PTEN dephosphorylated pAKT. Collectively, we reported a link among HBx, Notch1 pathway, DUSP1/PTEN, and ERK/AKT pathways, which influenced HCC cell survival and could be a therapeutic target for HCC.

A multiscale model that enables quantitative understanding and prediction of the size effect on scattering properties of micro- and nanostructures is crucial for the design of LED surface textures optimized for high light extraction efficiency (LEE). In this paper, a hybrid process for combining full-wave finite-difference time-domain simulation and a ray-tracing technique based on a bidirectional scattering distribution function model is proposed. We apply this method to study the influence of different pattern sizes of a patterned sapphire substrate on GaN-based LED light extraction from the microscale to the nanoscale. The results show that near-wavelength–scaled patterns with strong diffraction are not expected to enhance LEE. By contrast, microscaled patterns with optical diffusion behavior have the highest LEE at a specific aspect ratio, and subwavelength-scaled patterns that have antireflection properties show marked enhancement of LEE for a wide range of aspect ratios.

Background. Coronary artery disease (CAD) with extensive stenosis presents significant clinical challenges. This case report details the management and outcomes of a 61-year-old male with a notable history of CAD, initially treated with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), followed by an innovative intravenous hydrogen and oxygen nanobubble therapy due to recurrent symptoms.Case Presentation. Mr. BH was diagnosed with significant stenosis in the left anterior descending (LAD) artery and left circumflex (LCx) artery, initially managed by CABG. Recurring symptoms led to the adoption of a novel treatment involving hydrogen and oxygen nanobubbles. Following treatment initiation, Mr. BH experienced substantial improvements in physical capacity and symptomatic relief, with an ability to climb 22 flights of stairs and resolution of previous symptoms such as dyspnea and cough. Despite these improvements, subsequent imaging revealed in-stent restenosis and progression of graft disease.Discussion. The application of hydrogen and oxygen nanobubbles as a therapy in CAD is explored, highlighting potential mechanisms such as reduction of oxidative stress and improvement in endothelial function. This case contrasts the effects of conventional surgical and pharmaceutical interventions with the novel nanobubble therapy, illustrating both the benefits and complexities of managing advanced CAD with innovative treatments.Conclusion. While Mr. BH showed clinical improvement with nanobubble therapy, the development of new severe stenosis and restenosis underscores the need for further research to understand the long-term efficacy and mechanisms of nanobubble therapy in complex CAD cases. This case suggests that while innovative therapies may provide symptomatic relief and functional improvement, they do not obviate the need for ongoing surveillance and possibly further intervention.

The current trends in environment protection and sustainable development demand the investigations in the field of searching new perspective sources for any production. Oat husks seems to be a perspective resource. Cellulose isolated from oat wastes can be used for the production of different materials such as hydro and aerogels, bacterial, nanocrystal and nanofibrillated cellulose, cellulose based composites and ethers. All these materials can be spent in different industries: production of pharmaceuticals, medicine (including targeted delivery of drugs, sponges etc.), agriculture (controlled delivery of pesticides or fertilizers), electronics, production of films, membranes, plastics, coatings, paints, biodegradable packages. In this review, we will demonstrate prospects for using oat husks to obtain cellulose and for obtaining materials based on the main oat husk polysaccharide. This review will evaluate the main achievements in this area. The analysis will allow a reader to form an analytical opinion about the prospects for using oat husks as a source for obtaining valuable products.

A two-layer Fe-Cr-Al-Zr surface alloy was synthesized on a zirconium substrate by magnetron sputtering and subsequent low-energy high-current electron-beam (LEHCEB) processing. Thicknesses of the top Fe69Cr20Al11 (at.%) relatively large-grained (~1 µm) and transition Fe-Zr Cr-Al amorphous layers were about 0.7 and 0.6 µm, respectively. In turn, the amorphous layer consisted of two Fe64–54Zr8–22Cr21–17Al8–7 and Fe40–16Zr42–78Cr12–4Al6–2 (at.%) sublayers, differing in both zirconium and iron concentrations in wide ranges, which were separated by another nanocrystalline interlayer. The Fe-Cr-Al-Zr surface alloy serve as a diffusion barrier, preventing interaction of the zirconium substrate with oxygen from an environment. It was thermally stable up to ≈1173 K.

Burn-induced cardiac dysfunction is thought to involve mitochondrial dysfunction although the mechanisms responsible are unclear. In this study, we used our established model of in vivo burn injury to understand the genetic evidence of burn-induced mitochondrial metabolism confusion by describing cardiac mitochondrial metabolism-related gene expression after burn. Cardiac tissue was collected at 24 hours after burn injury. An O2K respirometer system was utilized to measure cardiac mitochondrial function. Oxidative phosphorylation complex activities were determined using enzyme activity assays. RT Profiler PCR array was used to identify differential regulation of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolism. Quantitative qPCR and Western Blotting were applied to validate differentially expressed genes. Burn-induced cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction was supported by the finding of decreased state 3 respiration and decreased mitochondrial electron transport chain activity in complex I, III, IV, and V following burn injury. Eighty-four mitochondrial metabolism-related gene profiles were measured. The mitochondrial gene profile showed that one third of genes related to mitochondrial energy and metabolism was differentially expressed. Of these 28 genes, 15 were more than 2-fold upregulated and 13 were more than 2-fold downregulated. All genes were validated using qPCR; 4 genes had a protein level which correlated with the observed change in gene expression. This study provides preliminary evidence that a large percentage of mitochondrial metabolism-related genes in cardiomyocytes were significantly affected by burn injury.

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, yet much is still unknown about its mechanism of establishment and destruction. Recently, studies had shown that tumor cells cannot survive under the high temperature conditions. This treatment technique is called Hyperthermia. This report presents the case of radiative microwave heating of hyperthermia therapy on breast cancer in a porous medium. In this study, the steady state is solved analytically while unsteady state is solved using semi-implicit finite difference to get a more accurate prediction of blood temperature distributions within the breast tissues. A moderate temperature hyperthermia treatment is apply which results into cell death due to an increase in the level of cell sensitivity to radiation therapy and blood flow in tumor and oxygen. The results show that by applying metabolic heat generation rate of $3.97 X 10^{5}Wm^{-3}$, it takes upto 2 minutes for the tumor cells to get the require therapeutic temperature point.

The critical systems, which the failure and malfunction may result in human, environment and financial severe damages, are essential components in various sectors and particularly in energy domains. Although unwished, integration error problems in supervision of critical systems occurs, incurring significant expenses because of operator’s subjective analysis and on hardware topology failures. In this work, a malleable model design approach is proposed to formulate and solve the integration error problem in the critical systems supervision in terms of reliability. A real Hybrid Power Plant (HPP) case is considered as a requirement for a study case with simulated data. A method framework with informal approach (C4 diagram) and formal approach (Hierarchical Coloured Petri Nets) in radial spectrum is applied to the HPP supervision design. Using formal methods, a formulation and solution to this problem through structured, scalable and compact mathematical representations are possible. This malleable model intends to guarantee functional correctness and then reliability of the plant supervision system based on system software architecture. Outcomes suggest corroboration that the malleable model is appropriate for energy domain, and can be used for other types of critical systems, bringing all the benefits of this methodology to the context in which it will be applied.