Google Trends data can be informative for infectious disease incidences, including Lyme disease. However, the use of Google Trends for predictive purposes is underutilized. In this study, we tested the ability of Google Trends search data to predict monthly state-level Lyme disease case counts in the United States. We requested Lyme disease data for the years 2010-2021. We downloaded Google Trends search data on terms for Lyme disease, symptoms of Lyme disease, and diseases with similar symptoms as Lyme disease. We built mixed negative binomial models based on a training dataset (2010-2016) and tested the models on a test dataset (2017-2021). A model was built for each search term and monthly lags of search terms were included as predictors. The highest performing models had high predictive ability, indicated by low Root Mean Squared Errors (RMSEs) and close association between observed and predicted case counts. The highest performing model was for the search term “Summer Flu”, which indicates low specificity of some of the terms. We outline challenges of using Google Trends data, including data availability and a mismatch between geographic units. We discuss opportunities for Google Trends data, including prediction of additional zoonotic diseases and incorporating environmental and companion animal data.

The real systems are often complex, nonlinear, and noisy in various areas including mathematics, natural science, and social science. We present the symplectic entropy (SymEn) measure as well as an analysis method based on SymEn to estimate the nonlinearity of the complex system by analyzing the given time series. The SymEn estimation is a kind of entropy based on symplectic principal component analysis (SPCA) which represent organized but unpredictable behaviors of systems. The key to SPCA is to preserve the global submanifold geometrical properties of the systems through symplectic transform in the phase space, which is a kind of the measure-preserving transforms. The capability of preserving the global geometrical characteristics makes the SymEn a test statistic to detect the nonlinear characteristics in several typical chaotic time series and the stochastic characteristic in the Gaussian white noise. The results are in agreement with findings in the approximate entropy (ApEn), the sample entropy (SampEn) and the fuzzy entropy (FuzzyEn). Moreover, the SymEn method is also used to analyze the nonlinearities of the real signals (including the EEG signals for ASD and healthy subjects, and the sound and vibration signals for the mechanical systems). The results indicate that the SymEn estimation can be taken as a measure for describing the nonlinear characteristics in the data collected from the natural complex systems.

The increasing demand for higher power in rocket launchers is driving the development of higher power nozzles, achieved essentially by increasing the expansion ratio. However, this can lead to flow separation and resulting unsteady, asymmetrical forces, called side loads, which can limit the life of both the nozzle itself and other engine components. If this problem can be overcome, engine performance can be significantly increased. Therefore, various separation control methods have been proposed, but none have been fully implemented to date due to the uncertainties associated with modeling and predicting the flow phenomena. A numerical study of high area ratio rocket engine is presented to analyze the aeroelastic performance of the structure under the condition of flow separation. The finite volume method, the 2nd order upwind scheme and the extended wall function are used to analyze the flow inside the rocket nozzle and the transition of the Free Shock Separation (FSS) to Restricted Shock Separation (RSS) separation pattern ) to be discussed in detail. Since the location of the flow separation point depends heavily on the flow.

Although being one of the most popular world fibres, wool industry is addressed with severe environmental allegations. While majority of scientific texts does not leave to much doubt about its production negative impact on the ecosystem, wool business does not stop to promote itself via green claims. The internet popular links present a divergent, positive picture of that material, where one might recognize parties being financially involved in such communication. As wool producers or organizations linked to wool business are top positioned in the web as providers of wool green image, the below article brings an interpretation of the industry greenwashing techniques. This comparative analysis of wool umbrella institutions’ webpages exposes myths endorsed about wool’s sustainability. The investigation follows case study of Woolmark brand, where associations to similar, highly ranked websites were conducted likewise. The results have been additionally matched with available scientific data from LCA relative statistics and The Higg Index, to provide contra argumentation from academic sources. The results of this paper could be used both by researchers or fashion lecturers, likewise by fashion marketers to recognize greenwashing techniques, to deliver adequate scientific numbers about unsustainable aspects of wool and to support them in creating a relevant content about wool’s environmental impacts.

Information and communication technologies play an increasingly important role in the process of acquiring knowledge from a territory and managing it at different scales. ICTs allow a rapid diffusion of data not only through institutional channels but also through social networks where the smart community share experiences and perceptions. In this sense, ICTs become strategic to support the promotion of sustainable tourism development of territories. An important tool to implement it, can be a circular smart dashboard, a decision support system in which the digital data are organized and processed to produce an information output, to be used, after the evaluation by the decision makers, as a new input for the system. The present paper deals with a wider research the authors are involved in, related to the reconversion and valorization of a former mining area towards slow tourism, as the Santa Barbara Walk (SBW), an ancient mining route in the Sulcis Iglesiente area (Sardinia, Italy) . In particular, we here focus on the design proposal of a dashboard, capable of organizing information concerning the main features of the walk, in order to facilitate a shared governance for an effective tourism promotion. The paper is based on a thorough recognition of the main characteristics of the Walk, both the material ones and the digital, immaterial ones. The SBW represents in fact a network connecting the main points of interest along the Walk. On the contrary, its digital network – consisting of intangible infrastructure and flows - is however fragmented in terms of policies and contents Also a state of disorganization in slow tourism promotion activities can be observed. The goal of this paper is to present and analysis of the area, and to propose an evaluation and planning tool as the design of a circular dashboard of the SBW.

The question of what generates conscious experience has mesmerized thinkers since the dawn of humanity, yet its origins remain a mystery. The topic of consciousness has gained traction in recent years, thanks to the development of large language models that now arguably pass the Turing test, an operational test for intelligence. However, intelligence and consciousness are not related in obvious ways, as anyone who suffers from a bad toothache can attest - pain generates intense feelings and absorbs all our conscious awareness yet nothing particularly intelligent is going on. Still, in the hard sciences, this topic is frequently met with skepticism because to date no protocol to measure the content or intensity of conscious experiences in an observer-independent manner has been agreed upon. Here we present a novel proposal: Conscious experience arises whenever a quantum mechanical superposition forms. Our proposal has several implications: First, it suggests that the structure of the superposition determines the qualia of the experience. Second, quantum entanglement naturally solves the binding problem, ensuring the unity of phenomenal experience. Finally, a moment of agency may coincide with the formation of a superposition state. We outline a research program to experimentally test our conjecture via a sequence of quantum biology experiments. Applying these ideas opens up the possibility of expanding human experience through brain-quantum computer interfaces.

The Characteristics of the cardiac muscle cell are described as a rod-shaped structure, single nu-cleus, and intercalated discs which make the heart’s action practical for enhancing contraction ef-ficiency. Mitochondria within these cells are vital for ATP synthesis, redox balance, calcium ho-meostasis, and lipid synthesis. The crucial role of Hsp60 is in protein folding and immune re-sponses; Hsp60 is a mitochondrial chaperonin, and its expression rises when the heart is under a stress condition like myocardial infarction and heart failure. This review has tried to deeply un-derstand the structural resemblance between cardiac and skeletal muscle cells, the amplitude number of mitochondria, its roles in cardiomyocytes, and the polyhedral functions of Hsp60. In this review, by investigating various articles, we brighten up Hsp60's distribution within cells, its association with apoptosis, and its action as a Damage Associated Molecular Pattern (DAMP), interacting with Toll-like receptors to modulate immune responses. Cardiac remodeling and failure are linked to cardiac-specific micro-RNAs whose expression may be affected by dysregu-lation of Hsp60. In conclusion, targeting mitochondrial function and Hsp60 expression may be of therapeutic potential for heart diseases.

In this paper, a semi-empirical model of air waves induced by falling rock is described. The model is composed of a uniform motion phase (velocity close to 0 m·s^-1) and an acceleration movement phase. The uniform motion phase was determined based on experimentally and the acceleration movement phase was derived by theoretical analysis. A series of experiments were performed to verify the semi-empirical model and elucidated the law of the uniform motion phase. The acceleration movement phase accounted for a larger portion with a greater height of the falling rock. Experimental results of different falling heights of the goaf showed close agreement with theoretical analysis values. The semi-empirical model could accurately and conveniently estimate the velocity of air wave induced by falling rock. Thus, the semi-empirical model can provide a reference and basis for estimating the speed of air waves and designing protective measures in mines.

The present study investigates the impact of electrode surface roughness on the electrofreezing of water. This research focuses on how the electrode roughness induced by a laser treatment affects the nucleation and growth of ice crystals under controlled electric fields. To achieve this, a series of experiments were conducted using deionized water samples placed between electrodes with varying surface roughness. The electrodes, fabricated with the Al6061 T6 alloy were structured via the Laser Shock Processing (LSP) method. For this purpose, the pulsed densities during the LSP process were varied from 900 to 2500 pulses/cm2. The increase of the pulse density was correlated to the surface structuring and to the microstructural features and average roughness of the LSP-treated Al6061 alloy. A wavy-like microstructure was induced upon the LSP treatment with average roughnesses between ~ 3.5 and 6 µm at the selected pulse densities. The results indicate that electrode roughness significantly influences the electrofreezing process. Rougher electrodes were found to lower the nucleation temperature compared to smoother ones, suggesting enhanced ice nucleation activity. The findings are attributed to the increased electric field concentration at the asperities of the rough surfaces, which may facilitate the alignment of water molecules and the formation of critical ice nuclei.

Background: Injury of the spinal cord causes motor and sensory dysfunction, and pathological reflexes, leading to paraplegia or tetraplegia. The sequelae of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant burden and impact on healthcare systems. Despite constant progress in medicine, traumatic SCI still remains irreversible. Till now, no satisfying treatment that can enable neuronal regeneration and recovery of function at the damaged level has been found. Hundreds of experiments have been conducted on various possibilities of influencing spinal regeneration, some of them have yielded promising results, but unfortunately, the successes obtained in experimental animals have not translated into humans. Methods: This narrative review article presents the application of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (eSWT) in Spinal Cord Injury. The article has been divided into parts: 1. Use of extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for regeneration of the spinal cord after traumatic Spinal Cord Injury. 2. Application of extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in spasticity after Spinal Cord Injury. In both cases, the hypotheses of possible mechanisms of action will be described. Results and conclusions: A small number of clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of eSWT to influence the regeneration of the spine, as an innovative, safe, and cost-effective treatment option for patients with SCI. Some reports have shown that eSWT can improve spasticity, walking ability, urological function, quality of life, and independence in daily life.

Information and communication technologies play an increasingly important role in the process of knowledge and management of places at different scales. ICTs allow a rapid diffusion of data not only through institutional channels but also through social networks where the smart community share experiences and perceptions. In this sense, ICTs become strategic tools to support the promotion of sustainable tourism development of territories, especially if the digital data are organised within a circular smart dashboard. This research focuses on the case study of the Santa Barbara Walk (SBW), an ancient mining route in the Sulcis Iglesiente region (Sardinia, Italy), where the authors have recognized a state of disorganization in slow tourism promotion activities. In fact, if the SBW represents a network - material infrastructure - which connects the main points of interest along the Walk, its digital network - intangible infrastructure - is fragmented in terms of policies and contents. The goal of this study is to provide a comprehensive set of data and to propose the architecture and design for a circular dashboard of the SBW, capable of organizing information concerning the main features of the walk, in order to facilitate a shared governance for an effective tourism promotion.

Properties of time domain parameters of the vibration signal have been extensively studied for the fault diagnosis of rolling element bearings (REB). Parameters like kurtosis and Envelope Harmonic-to-Noise Ratio are most widely applied in this field and some important progress has been made. However, since only one-sided information is contained in these parameters respectively, problems still exist in practice when the signals collected are of complicated structure and/or contaminated by strong background noises. A new parameter, named Shock pulse index (SPI), is proposed in this paper. It integrates the mutual advantage of both parameters above and can help effectively identify fault related impulse components under the interference of strong background noises, unrelated harmonic components and random impulses. The SPI optimizes the parameters of Maximum Correlated Kurtosis Deconvolution (MCKD), which is used to filter the signals under consideration. Finally, the interested transient information contained in the filtered signal can be highlighted through demodulation with Teager Energy Operator (TEO). Fault related impulse components can therefore be extracted accurately. Simulations and experiment analyses verify the effectiveness and correctness of the SPI.

Wind energy is a kind of renewable energy with great potential for development. This study mainly investigated the application of shock waves generated by high-pressure gases (wind energy) for generating energy. In this study, we designed a new supersonic shock wave generator that can be reused without disassembling and assembling bolts and developed a supersonic shock wave monitoring system. This system monitored the velocity of the generated shock waves, which was Mach 3-5, and the output pressure was more than 100 times higher than the input pressure of the shock wave generator tank.Then, we developed a power generation system driven by supersonic shock waves based on the characteristics of the new shock wave generator, which can generate high-pressure and high-speed blast waves and can be reused. The shock wave generator can repeatedly generate high-pressure waves to drive the Tesla turbine and then the magnetic energy generator for power generation. We established a complete control process for power generation driven by shock waves by controlling the valve stem. The system can detect the tank pressure, output pressure, gas flow, rotation speed, voltage, and current during the control process for the performance analysis of power generation.

Cost-effective community engagement is needed to address causes of mental illness related to social issues (i.e. isolation, stigma and lack of purpose) that are typically outside the scope of healthcare. This pilot study evaluated the relationship between clinical healthcare resources and a community-based social engagement organization in a medium-sized community in the midwestern US. Analyses were based on a retrospective longitudinal comparison of clinical visit frequency from two cohorts that joined the Momentum Center for Social Engagement (MC) and either frequently participated (Engaged; n = 9) or had extenuating circumstances limiting participation (Non-engaged; n = 3). The frequency of >1800 visits to the member’s primary mental healthcare provider were compared during the period from November 2016 - May 2021. Engaged MC members reduced frequency of regular visits to their primary mental healthcare provider by 50%, while Non-engaged MC members maintained clinical visit frequency. The financial value of reduced healthcare visits and associated wellbeing improvements was estimated to be $1.0 million, 95% CI: [$0.6-1.4 million], or roughly four times the budget received by the MC from the healthcare provider. Thus, the MC appears to be a valuable approach to improving mental health in conjunction with existing community healthcare services. Clinical implications include considering the unique MC-style community-based support as a component of practice.

Background/Objectives: Catastrophization and other comorbid psychological factors that increase awareness of pain are known to hinder chronic pain recovery. Five pilot studies, reported here, indicate that increased pain awareness from frequent pain assessment may impede chronic pain recovery through similar mechanisms. Methods: All study participants were asked to use a biofeedback device at least twice daily. Studies 1 and 2 required pain assessment before and after each biofeedback session, while Studies 3-5 did not. Pain levels were measured by the McGill Pain Inventory (McGill PI) at the start and end of each study. Results: Studies 3-5 replicated our prior work, demonstrating changes in pain, anxiety, and satisfaction and recovery following a home-use biofeedback program. Participants in the studies without frequent pain assessment experienced greater overall reductions in pain compared to participants in studies that did not require pain assessment. The results are, however, statistically inconclusive due to high variability, so further research is necessary. Conclusion: The results of our study suggest that frequent pain assessment may hinder pain reduction, likely by facilitating negative thought patterns and neural circuits involved in chronic pain. These findings can be applied to developing better research designs and more effective chronic pain recovery programs.

Energy management systems (EMS) play a central role in improving the performance of microgrids by ensuring their efficient operation while minimizing operational costs and environmental impacts. This paper presents a comprehensive study of a MILP-based EMS developed and implemented in MATLAB using Yalmip software for the energy management of a new positive energy district in the city of Savona, Italy, as part of the Interreg Alpine Space Project ALPGRIDS. The main objective of this research is to optimize the functioning of the microgrid, focusing on cost efficiency and environmental sustainability. In pursuit of this objective, the EMS undergoes comprehensive testing and analysis, replicating actual conditions and addressing the diverse demands of end-users across typical days throughout the year considering real electricity selling and purchase price. The EMS also accounts for the reactive power capabilities of the various technologies integrated into the microgrid. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) serves as a metric for assessing curtailment costs, while penalties related to reactive power absorption from the distribution network are appraised in alignment with prevailing regulatory guidelines. The case study provides valuable insights into the practical implementation of EMS technology in microgrids and demonstrates its potential for sustainable energy management in complex urban energy districts. The insights and strategies developed through this research contribute to the overall goals of improving energy efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint of future energy districts.

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) can act as a nonpermeating cryoprotectant, reducing the toxicity of glycerol. The dog spermatozoa were diluted and frozen in freezing extender supplemented with 0 (control), 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, or 0.75 % (w/v) CMC. Post-thaw, the sperm kinematic parameters (CASA), viability (SYBR-14/PI), and acrosome integrity (FITC-PSA) were evaluated. The expression of genes related to apoptosis (BCL2, BAX, and ANAXA), motility (BACTIN), cold shock proteins (YBX3), and ROS (CAT, ROMO1, and SMOX) was evaluated using qPCR. The total motility was higher in the 0.1 % CMC group compared to the other groups (p<0.05). In addition, the expression of the antiapoptotic gene BCL2 was upregulated in 0.1 % CMC group compared to the control, whereas the gene expression of BAX and SMOX exhibited lower levels in 0.1 and 0.25 % CMC groups than the control group (p<0.05). The expression of YBX3 genes was significantly decreased with 0.25 % CMC supplementation. No significant differences were found in viability, acrosome integrity, or the relative expression of ANAXA, BACTIN, CAT, and ROMO1 genes between the groups. In conclusion, the addition of CMC to a freezing extender improved sperm motility and alleviated cryostress by regulating the gene expression of BCL2, BAX, SMOX, and YBX3.

Introduction: The viral respiratory disorder known as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is caused by the SARS-associated coronavirus. End of May 2021, there have been over 170 million reported cases and more than 3.53 million deaths worldwide. In the field of cardiovascular performance, the shock index (SI) is a simple and widely used formula that measures the physiological response prior to systemic hypotension. It is obtained by dividing the heart rate by the systolic blood pressure. Another parameter, the modified shock index (MSI), is defined as the ratio of heart rate to mean arterial pressure (MAP). Methods: In this retrospective study, we examined the data of COVID-19 patients who were admitted to the ICU between June 1st, 2020, and January 31st, 2021. The patient details were collected from the Medical Records Department (MRD) in a tertiary care center. A case-recorded proforma was used to record the patient information, which was then analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The mean age of the patients was 67 years, consisting of 64 males (68.9%) and 29 females (31.1%). The standard deviation was calculated as 13.557. Among the patients, the minimum age recorded was 28, while the maximum age was 97. Patients with known CAD (Coronary Artery Disease) had a higher mortality rate among comorbidities. The p-value for Shock Index and Mortality Status was 0.205 (with an alpha value greater than 0.05), indicating no significant association. However, the modified shock index (MSI) showed a significant association with mortality status. The Pearson chi-square value for MSI and Mortality Status was 4.19, with a p-value of 0.041 (with an alpha value less than 0.05). These results suggest that there is a higher risk of mortality for patients with a Modified Shock Index of less than 0.7 or greater than 1.3. The MSI Odds ratio was found to be 4.500, indicating that such patients have a 4.5 times higher risk of mortality compared to others. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study found that there is no significant association between the Shock Index (SI) and mortality, as the p-value was greater than 0.05. However, the Modified Shock Index (MSI) showed a significant association with mortality status, with a p-value less than 0.05. This suggests that patients with a Modified Shock Index less than 0.7 or greater than 1.3 are at a higher risk of mortality. It is important to consider these findings when assessing the prognosis and potential interventions for COVID-19 patients.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus forced many individuals to confront their mortality and worry about losing loved ones also because social distancing policies often made it impossible to say goodbye. Those not directly experiencing loss were inundated with information about COVID-19-related deaths through various media, leading to vicarious grief. This study aims to explore the long-term effects of direct and vicarious mourning on people's mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. A sample of 171 adults (65% female) aged 19 to 66 years (mean age = 25.8, SD = 8.57) voluntarily participated in an online survey assessing self-reported psychological measures of complicated grief, anxiety, stress, depression, dispositional neuroticism, and situational anxiety using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. MANOVA tests revealed that individuals experiencing direct mourning had extremely severe scores for anxiety, stress, and fear of COVID-19, while those without personal losses had moderate scores. Participants reporting high media exposure had higher scores for depression and stress. In line with Terror Management Theory, the study supported that people during the COVID-19 pandemic engaged more in proximal defenses than distal ones, taking health-protective measures, experiencing increased anxiety levels toward SARS-CoV-2 infection, and feeling more distressed. Additionally, vicarious mourning was more strongly associated with depression due to emotional empathy with others. The discussion also addresses the strengths and limitations of the study.

The Ethnographic Museum in Dubrovnik holds an extensive textile collection that includes a range of dress and costume from Croatia and neighbouring countries. Until recently, the costumes were displayed on mannequins created by the academic artist Zvonimir Lončarić (1927–2004). His sculptures are expressive forms constructed from terracotta, fibreglass, wood, metal, acrylic paint and other materials selected for their visual appeal. Due to their importance, the museum considered the mannequins as protected artworks in the permanent exhibition, however, they had a harmful effect on the costumes displayed. In 2018, after completing a series of conservation-restoration projects within the collection, it was decided to replace the existing mounts with new, museum–quality mannequins. Two project–based learning workshops were organised, led by a team of textile conservators from the University of Dubrovnik and the Croatian Conservation Institute, in cooperation with the curator of the Ethnographic Museum. This case study highlights the challenges of exhibiting ethnographic costumes by discussing past presentation methods and how new solutions have been implemented conforming with the modern conservation-restoration profession. The new solutions consider ethics, decision–making processes, and the understanding of contemporary materials and methodology.

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), a group of small peptides capable of promoting the transport of molecular cargo across the plasma membrane, have become important tools in promoting the cellular uptake of exogenously delivered macromolecules. GV1001, a peptide derived from a reverse-transcriptase subunit of telomerase (hTERT) and developed as a vaccine against various cancers, reportedly has unexpected CPP properties. Unlike typical CPPs, such as the HIV-1 TAT peptide, GV1001 enabled the cytosolic delivery of macromolecules such as proteins, DNA and siRNA via extracellular heat shock protein 90 (eHSP90) and 70 (eHSP70) complexes. The eHSP-GV1001 interaction may have biological effects in addition to its cytosolic delivery function. GV1001 was originally designed as a MHC class II-binding cancer epitope, but its CPP properties may contribute to its strong anti-cancer immune response relative to other telomerase peptide-based vaccines. Cell signaling via eHSP-GV1001 binding may lead to unexpected biological effects, such as direct anticancer or antiviral effects. In this review, we focus on the CPP effects of GV1001 bound to eHSP90 and ehsp70.

Background: The predictive value of changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin and leukocyte levels, which are commonly used in the diagnosis of infection in sepsis and septic shock, remains a topic of debate. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of changes in CRP, procalcitonin, and leukocyte counts on the prognosis of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of pneumosepsis and pneumonia-related septic shock, and to investigate whether any of these markers have a superior predictive value over the others in forecasting prognosis. Methods: The study analyzed the demographic data, Charlson Comorbidity Index score (CCIS), CURB-65 score (confusion, uremia, respiratory rate, BP, age ≥ 65 years), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE-II) scores of 230 patients admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of pneumosepsis and pneumonia-related septic shock between April 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023. The levels of CRP, procalcitonin, and leukocytes were also recorded and analyzed to assess their impact on 1-month and 3-month mortality outcomes. Results: According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, low BMI, male gender, high CCIS, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scores were found to be significantly associated with both 1-month and 3-month mortality (p<0.05). An elevated SOFA score was associated with 1-month mortality, while advanced age was related to 3-month mortality (p<0.05). Although there was no significant relationship between the first-day levels of leukocytes, CRP, and PCT and mortality, their levels on the third day were observed to be at their highest in both 1-month and 3-month mortality cases (p<0.05). Additionally, a concurrent increase in any two or all three of CRP, PCT, and leukocyte values was found to be higher in patients with 3-month mortality compared to those who survived (p=0.004). Discussion: Although PCT, CRP, and leukocyte values measured at the time of admission were not significantly associated with 1-month mortality in patients with pneumosepsis or pneumonia-related septic shock, the persistent elevation and concurrent increase of these values, along with male gender, advanced age, low BMI, and high CCIS, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scores, were found to be significantly associated with 3-month mortality.

The interest in obtaining new composite materials with diverse properties has created a growing interest in natural fi-bers as reinforcement in polymers, which has generated an impact in sectors such as automotive and construction, dis-placing synthetic fibers. Properties such as low density, low cost, and rene.wable make these fibers an attractive alterna-tive to reduce environmental impact. Their application in polymers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and epoxy resins, has allowed the modification of polymeric composite materials' mechanical and physical properties (NFRP). This review focuses on investigating the status of natural fiber-reinforced polymers. It analyzes their worldwide demand, chemical characteristics, physical and mechanical properties, and various applications in different sectors and indus-tries. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of NFRPs are highlighted, highlighting their potential for new ap-plications.

Meningioma (MGM) is the most common type of intracranial tumor in adults. The validation of novel prognostic biomarkers to better inform tumor stratification and clinical prognosis is urgently needed. Many molecular and cellular alterations have been described in MGM tumors over the past few years, providing a rational basis for the identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The role of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTKs), including those of the ErbB family of receptors, as oncogenes has been well established in several cancer types. Here, we review histological, molecular, and clinical evidence suggesting that RTKs, including the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, ErbB 1), as well as other members of the ErbB family, may be useful as biomarkers in MGM.

Information theoretic quantities such as entropy, entropy rate, information gain, and relative entropy are often used to understand the performance of intelligent agents in learning applications. Mean squared error has not played a role in these analyses, primarily because it is not felt to be a viable performance indicator in these scenarios. We build on a new quantity, the log ratio of entropy powers, to establish that minimum mean squared error (MMSE) estimation, prediction, and smoothing are directly connected to Mutual Information Gain or Loss in an agent learning system modeled by a Markov chain for many probability distributions of interest. Expressions for mutual information gain or loss are developed for MMSE estimation, prediction, and smoothing and an example for fixed lag smoothing is presented.

Background/Objectives: The 28-day mortality rate for septic shock is high, necessitating rapid and effective empiric antimicrobial therapy. This study investigates whether the rate of catecholamine dose reduction in septic shock can indicate bacterial susceptibility to initial antimicrobial therapy. Methods: This retrospective observational study involved 108 adult patients with bacteraemia and septic shock admitted at the intensive care unit of Nihon University Itabashi Hospital between January 2017 and December 2023. They were classified into the Susceptible or Resistant group based on the bacteria’s susceptibility to the initial empiric antimicrobial therapy. Catecholamine dosages were converted to norepinephrine equivalent (NEE) scores, with the time course from peak to end of administration measured at NEE reductions. Results: Of the 108 patients, 94 were in the Susceptible group and 14 in the Resistant group. The Susceptible group showed faster reductions in catecholamine doses: time to reduce the dose from the maximum NEE to 25% was 19 vs. 49.5 hours (p = 0.0057); and 0%, 29 vs. 54 hours (p = 0.0475). Conclusions: In septic shock with bacteraemia, faster catecholamine dose reduction indicates bacterial susceptibility to initial empiric antibiotics. This reduction rate can serve as an early clinical indicator of appropriate initial empiric therapy.

Due to the incomplete of China's current social security system, health shocks are one of the main risks faced by rural families. Using data from the 2019 China Household Finance Survey, we examined the impact of borrowing on household welfare when rural households face health shocks. We found that household income and food expenditure both declined significantly when rural households faced health shocks; rural household borrowing was mainly used for the treatment of the diseases, and it had a crowding out effect on tourism and general health care expenditures, but not on education expenditures. We also found that the impact of borrowing on the western region was higher than that on the central and eastern regions from Looking at the impact of borrowing in different regions. Finally, we put forward some suggestions for promoting sustainable rural development from the perspective of medical security, such as accelerating the promotion of new rural medical insurance, helping rural low-income families improve health benefits, establishing diversified financing channels, improving rural financial platforms, and solving the financing difficulties of households to improve the ability of rural households to resist health shocks.

The pressure exerted on the heart and blood vessels because of blood flow is considered as an important parameter for the cardiovascular function. It determines sufficient blood perfusion as well as transportation of nutrition, oxygen and other essential factors to every organ. Pressure in the primary arteries located near the heart and the brain, known as central blood pressure (CBP), while in peripheral arteries, known as peripheral blood pressure (PBP). Normally, CBP and PBP are correlated; however, cardiovascular disorders interfere their regulation and affect the blood flow in vital organs and accessory organs, differently. Therefore, understanding each of them in normal and disease conditions is essential for managing various cardiovascular disorders and increasing their treatment outcomes. In this review, we have described the control systems (neural, hormonal, osmotic and cellular) of the blood pressure and its regulation in hypovolemic shock using centhaquine (Lyfaquin®) as a resuscitative agent.

A surprising insight from the advent of genomic sequencing was that many genes are deeply conserved during evolution. With a particular focus on genes that interact with light in animals, I explore the metaphor of genetic toolkits, which can be operationalized as lists of genes involved in a trait of interest. A fascinating observation is that genes of a toolkit are often used again and again during convergent evolution, sometimes across vast phylogenetic distances. Such a pattern in the evolution of toolkits requires three different stages: origin, maintenance, and redeployment of the genes. The functional origins of toolkit genes might often be rooted in interactions with external environments. The origins of light interacting genes in particular may be tied to ancient responses to photo-oxidative stress, inspiring questions about the extent to which the evolution of other toolkits were also impacted by stress. Maintenance of genetic toolkits over long evolutionary timescales requires gene multifunctionality to prevent gene loss when a trait of interest is absent. Finally, the deployment of toolkit genes in convergently evolved traits like eyes sometimes involves the repeated use of similar, ancient genes but other times involves different genes specific to each convergent origin. How often a particular gene family is used time and again for the same function may depend on how many possible biological solutions are available. When few solutions exist and are maintained, evolution is constrained to use the same genes over and over. However, when many different solutions are possible, the innovative possibilities of evolution are often on display. Therefore, a focus on genetic toolkits highlights the combination of legacy plus innovation that drives the evolution of biological diversity.

The COVID-19 pandemic affects not only physical health but also deteriorates mental health resulting in sleep problems, depression, and traumatic stress. Our research investigates the level of posttraumatic stress, perceived social support, opinions on positive and negative consequences of the pandemic, sense of security, and sense of meaning among nurses in the face of new and not fully understood global epidemiological phenomena. For this purpose, computer-assisted web interviewing methods were conducted between May 1 and May 15, 2020. Participating nurses completed the following research tools: The Impact Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), The Changes in Outlook Questionnaire (CIOQ), The Safety Experience Questionnaire (SEQ) and The Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ). Three hundred and twenty-five nurses working throughout Poland joined the study of an average age of 39.18 ± 11.16 years. The average overall IES-R score in the study group was 1.78 ± 0.65. Among the dimensions of traumatic stress, the highest score was obtained in the dimension Avoidance 1.86 ± 0.73, then in the dimensions Hyperarousal 1.8 ± 0.78 and Intrusion 1.74 ± 0.83. Amongst studied nurses, the highest support rates were provided by significant others (22.58 ± 5.22), then from friends (21.91 ± 5) and family (21.45 ± 4.4). Among the surveyed nurses, higher average scores were noted in the subscale measuring positive psychological changes (18.56 ± 4.04). In contrast, a higher average level of assessment was noted on the Reflection on the safety dimension (4.21 ± 0.49). The mean MLQ score was 5.33 ± 0.87. A slightly higher result was observed in the subscale Presence (5.35 ± 1.14). The results of the research implemented during the period of severe psychological pressure associated with the COVID-19 pandemic provided information on symptoms of traumatic stress in the examined group of nurses. Their sense of security has been lowered and accompanied by an intensified reflection on issues concerning security. However, the sense of meaning (currently felt) in life remains higher than the tendency to searching for it. The surveyed nurses perceive individual support from the so-called significant others (apart from family and friends). They see positive changes resulting from painful experiences related to the COVID-19 pandemic, which can be characterized by adaptation in the form of posttraumatic growth.

Climate change and the increasing frequency of high-temperature events are significant threats to global crop yields. To address this, a comprehensive understanding of how plants respond to heat shock (HS) is essential. Signaling pathways involving calcium (Ca2+), a versatile second messenger in plants, encode information through temporal and spatial variations in ion concentration. Ca2+ is detected by Ca2+-sensing effectors, including channels and binding proteins, which trigger specific cellular responses. At elevated temperatures, the cytosolic concentration of Ca2+ in plant cells increases rapidly, making Ca2+ signals the earliest response to HS. In this review, we discuss the crucial role of Ca2+ signaling in raising plant thermotolerance and we explore its multifaceted contributions to various aspects of the plant HS response.

Shrimps are under the influence of several environmental factors such as fluctuation of physical and chemical parameters of the water affected by variations in rainfall, temperature, salinity, and pH. These factors have also been identified as risk factors for shrimp disease outbreaks. Despite the high levels of production, shrimp producers suffered significant economic losses in years, mainly due to the presence of diseases that now plague the industry. In particular, viral diseases have had and will continue to have profound impact on industry growth. In response to stress such environmental or pathophysiological, cells are able to up regulating selectively the expression of a protein group known as Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs). In a recent search at the literature we observed a close relation between HSP70 with apoptotic proteins and others stress proteins such HSP60 and HSP90. Moreover, the response of shrimp to viral stress was examined, some of which are correlated to the reactions of HSP70. Thus, the aim of this review is to describe the current knowledge on the status of stress responses in shrimps, particularly HSP70 responses, triggered by viruses.

In the brain, astrocytes regulate shape and functions of the synaptic and vascular compartments through a variety of released factors and membrane-bound proteins. An imbalanced astrocyte activity can therefore have drastic negative impacts on brain development, leading to the onset of severe pathologies. Clinical and pre-clinical studies show alterations in astrocyte cell number, morphology, molecular makeup and astrocyte-dependent processes in different affected brain regions in neurodevelopmental (ND) and neuropsychiatric (NP) disorders. Astrocytes proliferate, differentiate and mature during the critical period of early postnatal brain development, a time window of elevated glia-dependent regulation of a proper balance between synapse formation/elimination, which is pivotal in refining synaptic connectivity. Therefore, any intrinsic and/or extrinsic factors altering these processes during the critical period may result in an aberrant synaptic remodelling and onset of mental disorders. The peculiar bridging position of astrocytes between synaptic and vascular compartments further allows them to “compute” the brain state and consequently secrete factors in the bloodstream, which may serve as diagnostic biomarkers of distinct healthy or disease conditions.Here, we collect recent advancements regarding astrogenesis and astrocyte-mediated regulation of neuronal network remodelling during early postnatal critical periods of brain development, focusing on synapse elimination. We then propose alternative hypotheses for an involvement of aberrancies in these processes in the onset of ND and NP disorders. In light of the well-known differential prevalence of certain brain disorders between males and females, we also discuss putative sex-dependent influences on these neurodevelopmental events.From a translational perspective, understanding age- and sex-dependent astrocyte-specific molecular and functional changes may help to identify biomarkers of distinct cellular (dys)functions in health and disease, favouring the development of diagnostic tools or the selection of tailored treatment options for male/female patients.

We examine how external triggers, including the digital imperative and the need for more sustainable resource and stakeholder employment, spark the development of transformative sustainable business models. Drawing on the resource-based view and the shared value approach we conceptualize a multifaceted framework that helps to identify key determinants and coherent layers of transformative sustainable businesses models. Our theoretical arguments integrate recent research findings on external dynamics, such as digital technological advances and rising global competitive dynamics, with internal capabilities on both the organizational and the individual level, allowing for a more complete understanding of transformative potentials on the firm level. We propose that key determinants of sustainable transformative business models adhere to both, innovative value-creating reconstructionist and sustainable shared-value logic, and include elements such as co-creation with customers, usage-based pricing, agile and adaptive behavior, closed-loop resource employment, asset-sharing, and collaborative business ecosystems. At the same time, organizational, economic, and environmental layers encompassing sustainable business models need to be both horizontally and vertically coherent to unfold their full potential.

Renewable active sludge is a smart material for wastewater treatment and the protection of surface water bodies. The generated pellets (dried and pelletised dehydrated anaerobically stabilised excess sludge) are produced in a quantity of 31.4 g ± 5.6 g dry matter (DM) per one Population equivalent (PE) calculated to COD (PE_COD) in one day. As pellets are combustible material, their energy utilisation must reach sustainable development goals (SDGs) - a bridge must be created between »treated sewage sludge as the tool to remove pollutants and nutrients from wastewater« and »preparation of the valuable material as a solid recovered fuel (SRF) that meets customer-specific requirements«. Technical Report CEN/TR 15508 and Technical Standard EN ISO 21640 set up methods for specifying and classifying pellets as an SRF. In the last eleven years (2010 – 2021), pellets' net calorific value (NCV) is 13.0 ± 0.7 MJ kg^-1 as received (ar). In 2021, the 80^th percentile of the Hg/NCV ratio was 0.079 mg Hg MJ^-1. In 2010 – 2021, the annual amount of Hg transferred to stakeholders reduced by 64.3 % m/m - from 10.1 kg to 3.67 kg. The halogen contents of the pellets do not threaten corrosion to the incineration facility. Stable pellets' energy potential and perspective ash composition for critical raw materials recovery qualify pellets as a specific waste stream and a renewable material for SRF production.

African swine fever has damaged the foundation of China’s hog industry, caused a serious decline in hog production, highlighted the contradiction between supply and demand in the pork market, and led to major economic and social impacts. This study measured the industrial resilience of 31 Chinese provinces which faced the African swine fever shock and its spatial and temporal differentiation characteristics from 2018-2021 in terms of the two dimensions of resistance and recoverability. Using Geodetector, the study explored the key factors influencing the resilience of China’s hog industry. The results showed that 2018-2019 and 2020-2021 were the resistance and recovery periods of the hog industry under the African swine fever shock, respectively, with poor resilience characterizing the resistance period and improved resilience exemplifying the recovery period. At the early stage of the African swine fever outbreak, Tianjin, Shanxi, Guangxi and Yunnan had robust resistance in the hog industry, and the slaughter rate, economic level, mortality rate, carcass weight and culling rate showed the highest explanation for the resistance. At the most severe stage of the outbreak, the resistance of the hog industry in all provinces was generally poor, and the slaughter rate, per capita consumption and scale level showed the highest explanation for the resistance. In the period of rapid recovery of hog production, the recoverability of each province was very strong, and the industrial structure, culling rate, economic level and resource carrying capacity showed the highest explanation for the recoverability. In the reasonable adjustment period of hog production capacity, the recoverability based on the breeding sow inventory in 13 provinces, including Henan, Shandong and other large hog breeding provinces, was negative, and the scale level, slaughter rate, per capita consumption and resource carrying showed the highest explanation for the recoverability. It is recommended to take measures to enhance the resilience of the hog industry, strengthen the prevention and control of hog epidemics, improve the monitoring and early warning mechanism, and strive to enhance the ability of the hog industry to cope with major animal epidemics.

The social fear conditioning (SFC) paradigm, which is an animal model of social anxiety disorder, has been extensively used to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the psychopathology of this disorder. Studies using the SFC paradigm have suggested that the lateral septum plays a pivotal role in regulating social fear. While several lines of evidence have indicated the involvement of various neuronal mechanisms within the LS in modulating social fear, the role played by LS astrocytes in the tripartite synapses in regulating social fear expression is not yet fully understood. Over the years, astrocytes have emerged as key players in regulating synaptic transmission and a plethora of animal behaviors. Given their dynamic morphological and molecular response to various stimuli, studying astrocyte morphology remains an excellent tool for understanding their role in brain function and disease. By applying immunofluorescent-immunohistochemical methods, here we describe a protocol to characterize changes in the morphology of astrocytes in response to social fear acquisition using confocal microscopy.

Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells in the brain, are an integral part of the synaptic compartment and contribute to synaptic pruning, a key process for refining neural circuits during early postnatal development (PND). Dysregulations in this process are implicated in various neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD). To investigate astrocyte functions in a physiologically relevant context, organotypic brain slice cultures (OBSCs) offer a powerful model, reproducing more closely in vivo conditions than traditional cell cultures and preserving complex brain architecture and interactions. Here, we present OBSCs as an ex vivo culturing method to provide a platform to explore astrocyte-mediated synaptic pruning dynamics in the rat prefrontal cortex (PFC) during PND. Our approach is based on assessing the role of MEGF10, a key protein involved in synaptic pruning, alongside the synaptic markers synaptophysin and PSD95, using Western blotting to analyse the expression levels of these markers in the cortex of developing rat pups. Additionally, we combine immunofluorescence staining with confocal imaging and IMARIS 9.8 software-assisted analysis to investigate the co-localization of the lysosomal marker LAMP1 with synaptic and astrocytic markers to evaluate the precise rate of synaptic engulfment. The methods presented here allow a deeper examination of an astrocyte-mediated synaptic remodelling in healthy and pathophysiological conditions.

Immunofluorescent methods in vitro have been widely used to characterize the distribution and extent of colocalization of molecules located in various intracellular compartments. These are key processes to better understand the role of those molecules in physiological and pathological conditions.In the brain, interactions of astrocytes with neurons are fundamental for the establishment and proper functioning of neuronal circuits. Among these, the phagocytosis of synapses that need to be removed is a process known as synaptic pruning. When this process is dysregulated, it might lead to the development of several brain disorders. Here, we describe the adaptation of a method to characterize the astrocyte-mediated synaptic phagocytosis and evaluate astrocytic (dys)functions in healthy cells and cells derived from an animal model of major depressive disorder (MDD).

This work is an addition to the previously developed two-dimensional model of the shock-plasma interaction extending it into the third dimension. The model allows tracing the evolution of the state of the hypersonic flow and the shock front refracted at a thermal discontinuity. The advantages of using the spherical coordinate system for this type of the problems include more transparency in interpreting the solution and a shortened calculation procedure, because all the changes to the front become reduced to one distortion component only. Although the vorticity generation triggered at the interface is the consequence of the refraction and tied to the steep changes of the front, it is shown here that it is not because of an instant parameter jump at the interface due to refraction itself.

Heat Shock Proteins play a crucial role in maintaining cellular integrity during thermal stress conditions, acting as chaperones and participating in the regulation of cellular responses. The focus was to contribute valuable insights into the potential role of hypericin in modulating these heat shock proteins and its implications for anti-tumoral properties. This study employs computational methods, specifically molecular docking, to investigate the potential biological interactions between the chaperone proteins HSP90 and HSC70 and Hypericin, a natural compound recognized for its anti-tumor properties. Despite the limited existing studies in this domain, this research aims to uncover structural insights into the binding mechanisms between Hypericin and these heat shock proteins. In the docking assessments, hypericin demonstrated notable binding energy results, exhibiting a binding energy of -10.5 kcal/mol with Heat Shock Cognate 71 kDa protein and -11.2 kcal/mol with Heat Shock Protein HSP90-alpha.

Refraction of an oblique shock wave on a tangential discontinuity dividing two gas flows with different properties is considered. It is shown that its partial reflection occurs excepting of geometrical diffraction of an oblique shock. Another oblique shock, expansion wave or weak discontinuity that coincides with Mach line, can act as a reflected disturbance. This study focuses on relationships which define the type of reflected discontinuity and its parameters. Domains of existence of various shock-wave structures with reflected disturbances of two types and boundaries between them are defined. The domains of parameters with one or two solutions exist for the characteristic refraction. Conditions of the regular refraction and the Mach refraction are formulated, and boundaries between those two refraction types are defined for various types of gases. Refraction phenomena in various engineering problems (hydrocarbon gaseous fuel and its combustion products, diatomic gas, fuel mixture of oxygen and hydrogen etc.) are discussed.

(Background:) Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) is very popular with consumers around the world for its intense flavor, attractive appearance and health benefits. In recent years, interest in healthy eating and natural products has increased, and raspberry fits perfectly into these trends, which translates into its greater importance on the consumer market. (Aim) The aim of the study was the commodity evaluation of raspberry fruits bearing fruit on 2-year-old shoots, cultivated under the conditions of varied nitrogen fertilization against the background of constant phosphorus-potassium fertilization. The first-order factor were cultivars ('Laszka' and ‘Glen Ample’), and the second-order factor was nitrogen fertilization (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg N ha-1), against the background of constant phosphorus-potassium fertilization (100 kg P2O5 and 120 kg K2O ha-1). The experiment was set up in a dependent split-plot design, in 3 repetitions. (Results) The importance of raspberry on the consumer market was shaped by: taste and quality of fruit, health benefits, naturalness and freshness, universality of use, availability and nutritional trends. (Conclusion) The tested cultivars were characterized by similar production and quality capabilities. Fertilization of the tested cultivars with a dose of 135 kg N·ha-1 turned out to be justified in terms of yield. Increasing nitrogen doses resulted in a significant increase in fresh fruit yield and 1000 fruit weight. Different doses of nitrogen increased fruit resistance to mechanical damage, firmness and improved quality indices.

Ultrasound, as mechanical waves with frequencies exceeding 20 thousand hertz, has found wide applications in medicine, physiotherapy, and more recently in agriculture. This study aimed to investigate the impact of ultrasound on potato yield and its parameters, particularly on seed potato yield, quantity, mass, and multiplication coefficient of potato tubers. The research was based on a three-year field experiment, utilizing the randomized block design in a split-split-plot arrangement, in the central-eastern region of Poland. The primary factor were technologies: a) technology with employing ultrasonic pre-planting treatment, b) traditional cultivation without this treatment. The secondary factors were potato varieties. Sonication of tubers was conducted using a bath-type ultrasonic device equipped with piezoe-lectric transducers. Results revealed a significant influence of cultivation technology, cultivar, and weather conditions on seed tubers yield, quantity, and multiplication coefficient of potato tubers. However, genetic traits of the examined varieties and random factors significantly affected the individual seed tuber mass and the number of shoots emerging from a single tuber. Future Outlook: Future research could focus on further optimizing ultrasound application techniques in potato cultivation, considering diverse varieties and environmental conditions. Additionally, it would be worthwhile to analyze the long-term effects of ultrasound on tuber seed potato quality and their ability to adapt to changing climatic and soil conditions. Furthermore, studies investi-gating the impact of ultrasound on other plant species could broaden our understanding of po-tential benefits in agriculture.

Epigenetic mechanisms, including post-translational modifications of DNA and histones that influence chromatin structure, regulate gene expression during normal development, and are also involved in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. The histone methyltransferase G9a (euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase 2, EHMT2), which mostly mediates mono- and dimethylation by histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9), influences gene expression involved in embryonic development and tissue differentiation. Overexpression of G9a has been observed in several cancer types, and different classes of G9a inhibitors have been developed as potential anticancer agents. Here, we review the emerging evidence suggesting the involvement of changes in G9a activity in brain tumors, namely glioblastoma (GBM), the main type of primary malignant brain cancer in adults, and medulloblastoma (MB), the most common type of malignant brain cancer in children. We also discuss the role of G9a in neuroblastoma (NB) and the drug development of G9a inhibitors.

Automated weeding is an important research area in agrorobotics. Weeds can be removed mechanically or with the precise usage of herbicides. Deep Learning techniques achieved state of the art results in many computer vision tasks, however their deployment on low-cost mobile computers is still challenging. These paper present an advanced version of the system presented in [1]. The described system contains several novelties, compared both with its previous version and related work. It is a part of a project of the automatic weeding machine, developed by Warsaw University of Technology and MCMS Warka Ltd. The obtained model reaches satisfying accuracy at over 10~FPS on the Raspberry Pi 3B+ computer. It was tested for four different plant species at different growth stadiums and lighting conditions. The system performing semantic segmentation is based on Convolutional Neural Networks. Its custom architecture mixes U-Net, MobileNets, DenseNet and ResNet concepts. Amount of needed manual ground truth labels was significantly decreased by the usage of knowledge distillation process, learning final model to mimic an ensemble of complex models on the large database of unlabeled data. Further decrease of the inference time was obtained by two custom modifications: in the usage of separable convolutions in DenseNet block and in the number of channels in each layer. In the authors’ opinion, described novelties can be easily transferred to other agrorobotics tasks.

Experimental studies of degradation of two ribonucleosides (guanosine and uridine) were carried out by making use of mechanochemistry. Mechanochemical experiments reveal the decomposition of guanosine and uridine promoted by nickel(II) and carbonate ions into guanine and uracil, respectively which were identified by HPLC and 1H NMR spectroscopy (this applied only to uracil). Additionally, DFT methodologies were used to probe the energetic viability of several degradation pathways, including in the presence of the same ions. Three mechanisms were analysed via ribose ring-opening: dry, single molecule water- and metal-assisted, which confirmed the mechanochemical degradation of ribonucleosides, with nucleobase preservation. These results can be applied to interpret the organic content of terrestrial and extra-terrestrial samples after mechanochemical treatment.

In this paper, we present the design, manufacturing and characterization of a soft textile-based clutch (TBC) that switches between locking and unlocking of its linear displacement by exploiting vacuum stimulation. The applied vacuum locks the relative sliding motion between two elaborated textile webbings covered by an elastic silicone rubber bag. Based on different fabrication techniques, such as silicone casting on textile, melt embossing for direct fabrication of miniature patterns on textile and sewing, we developed three groups of TBC samples based on friction and interlocking principles and we compared their performance in blocking configuration. The clutch with interlocking mechanism presented the highest withstanding force (150 N) respect to the one (54 N) recorded for the friction-based clutch. The simple and compact structure of the proposed clutch, together with the intrinsic adaptability of fabric with other clothing and soft materials, make it a proper solution for applications in soft wearable robotics and generally as locking and variable stiffness solution for soft robotic applications.

Abstract: Background: Vasoplegic shock syndrome(VSS) after an off-pump coronary artery bypass graft (OPCABG) is an extremely rare condition. Inotropic support is usually the first-line therapy though it can precipitate several complications or be ineffective. We report the first case of severe refractory VSS after OPCABG successfully treated with hydroxycobalamin. Methods: A 77-year-old gentleman underwent OPCABG for three vessels coronary artery disease. Preoperative LV ejection fraction was 28%, and the patient before surgery started sacubi-tril/valsartan titrated, then, to the highest dose. Surgery was uneventful and, by the end of the procedure, TEE showed improved biventricular contractility. Results: The patient was transferred to the ICU without inotropic support but he developed soon hypotension. TEE ruled out pericardial tamponade and confirmed fair contractility. Norepineph-rine was titrated to a medium-high dose, vasopressin was started and a Swan-Ganz catheter was placed. SVR was 480 dyn·s·cm−5. Despite aggressive pharmacologic treatment (including Methylprednisolone and Methylene blue), no improvements were noticed. 10 g of hydroxycobalamin were administered. One hour later hemodynamic status re-assessment showed SVR > 800 dyn·s·cm−5. Afterward, vasopressors were gradually reduced. Conclusions: Our case demonstrated the importance of adequate early treatment in VSS after OPCABG. For the first time, hydroxycobalamin was effectively used to restore homeostasis.

Objective: The main purpose of the study is to investigate the combined effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) sequences on the regenerative processes in atrophied animal muscles. Methods: Thirty male New Zealand rabbits, aged 12 weeks, were divided into five groups: normal saline, PDRN, ESWT, PDRN injection before ESWT, and PDRN injection after ESWT. Following 2 weeks of cast immobilization, the respective treatments were administered to the atrophied calf muscles. Radial ESWT was performed twice weekly. The evaluation included measurements of calf circumference, tibial nerve compound muscle action potential (CMAP), and gastrocnemius (GCM) muscle thickness after 2 weeks of treatment. Histological and immunohistochemical staining, as well as Western blot analysis, were conducted 2 weeks post-treatment. Staining intensity and extent were assessed using semi-quantitative scores. Results: Groups 4 and 5 demonstrated significantly greater calf muscle circumference, GCM muscle thickness, tibial nerve CMAP, and GCM muscle fiber cross-sectional area (types I, II, and total) than in the remaining three groups (p < 0.05), while they did not did not differ significantly in these parameters. Groups 2 and 3 showed the higher values for all the observations compared to group 1 (p < 0.05). Group 4 had the greatest ratio of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) in the gastrocnemius muscle fibers than in the other four groups (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis revealed significantly higher expression of angiogenesis cytokines in groups 4 and 5 than in the remaining (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The combination of ESWT and PDRN injection demonstrated superior regenerative efficacy for atrophied calf muscle tissue in rabbit models than these techniques alone or saline. Particularly, administering ESWT after PDRN injection yielded the most favorable outcomes in specific parameters.

Slags and ashes generated in thermal waste treatment facilities require proper management. In line with the principles of the circular economy, new, more economical and ecological possibilities for utilizing these substances are sought. These waste materials exhibit characteristics similar to rocks in many aspects. This study focuses on analyzing the similarities and differences between nine selected rocks and three samples of slags and ashes obtained from municipal waste incineration. The main research device used was a polarizing microscope, using reflected, transmitted and fluorescent light. Additionally, low-pressure gas adsorption equipment, as well as helium and quasi-liquid pycnometers, were used for complementary analysis. The parameters analyzed mainly covered broadly defined petrographic properties of rocks and slags, with a particular emphasis on porosity, porous structure and the spatial distribution of pores and fractures. The conducted analyses confirmed a significant similarity between slags and ashes and clastic sedimentary rocks such as sandstones and mudstones. The research results underscore the importance of petrographic microscopic studies for analyzing materials other than rocks. They also allow for exploring applications for slags and ashes in areas traditionally reserved for natural rock resources. The findings also indicate the necessity of using methods other than microscopic ones to describe the pore space of rocks. The lower measurement range of the optical microscope is limited to approximately 1 μm, covering only macropores. Other methods extend this characteristic to micro- and mesopores. Therefore, a combination of different methods is often employed to obtain a more comprehensive characterization of rock porosity.

An increasing number of persons with cancer decide to choose complementary and alternative medicine. The purpose of the paper was to check the status of the use of complementary and alternative medicine methods in oncological patients and to compare health behaviours of patients using Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) with those using neither of these methods. The studies were conducted from August till January 2020 in the Oncology Center in the south-eastern Poland. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a group of 208 oncological patients. The authors' own questionnaire and the standardized Health Behaviour Inventory were used. Most of the patients (85,09%) declared that they used complementary and alternative medicine methods. The most common methods chosen by the respondents included vitamin C, green tea and prayer. The vast majority of the respondents did not inform their oncologist about the use of CAM. 45,19% of the respondents had a high rate of health behaviours. It was observed that there was no communication related to the use of CAM among the patients and healthcare staff. Patients using CAM demonstrated more positive health behaviours than those who were not using these methods.

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is part of a clinical syndrome consisting of acute left ventricular failure causing severe hypotension leading to inadequate organ and tissue perfusion. The most com-monly used devices to support patients affected by CS are Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP), Impella 2.5 pump and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. The aim of this study is the com-parison between Impella and IABP using CARDIOSIM© software simulator of the cardiovascular system. The results of the simulations included baseline conditions from a virtual patient in CS followed by IABP assistance in synchronized mode with different driving and vacuum pressures. Subsequently, the same baseline conditions were supported by the Impella 2.5 with different ro-tational speeds. The percentage variation with respect to baseline conditions was calculated for hemodynamic and energetic variables during IABP and Impella assistance. Impella pump driven with a rotational speed of 50000 rpm increased the total flow by 4.36% with a reduction in left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV) by ≅15% to ≅30%. A reduction in left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) by ≅10% to ≅18% (≅12% to ≅33%) was observed with IABP (Impella) as-sistance. Taking into account the limitations of a simulation setting, this study highlights that assistance with the Impella device leads to higher reduction in LVESV, LVEDV, left ventricular external work and left atrial pressure-volume loop area compared to IABP support.

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a safe and effective treatment option for various pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. Many studies addressed the molecular and cellular mechanisms of action of ESWT. However, no uniform concept could be established in this matter until now. We performed a systematic review of the effects of exposure of musculoskeletal tissue to extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) reported in the literature. The key results were as follows: (i) compared to the effects of many other forms of therapy, the clinical benefit of ESWT does not appear to be based on a single mechanism; (ii) different tissues respond to the same mechanical stimulus in different ways; (iii) just because a mechanism of action of ESWT was described in a study does not automatically mean that this mechanism was relevant to the observed clinical effect; (iv) focused ESWs and radial ESWs seem to act in a similar way; and (v) even the most sophisticated research into the effects of exposure of musculoskeletal tissue to ESWs cannot substitute clinical research in order to determine the optimum intensity, treatment frequency and localization of ESWT.

The temperature-assisted laser shock process has shown promising prospects in the fields of forming manufacturing and surface strengthening. However, large-scale application of this process is limited by the instability and failure of confinement medium at high temperatures (≥300 ℃). Aiming at this problem, we propose a novel laser shock strategy based on Leidenfrost effect, where the suspended droplets are utilized as the confinement medium. According to the sequence of images acquired by time delay system and high-speed camera, the droplet dynamics behavior is studied. The focusing enhancement effect of the droplet is comprehensively explored. And the correlations between droplet size, ambient temperature, vapor layer thickness and focusing effect are investigated. Combining the dynamics and focusing enhancement effect of droplets, a theoretical model of laser shock pressure under droplet confinement is established. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the droplet-based laser shock strategy in high temperature processing environments are verified by typical applications in laser shock forming and laser shock peening fields. The results show that the droplet-based laser shock process presents better forming effect. And the mechanical property tests demonstrate that this process can obtain the simultaneous improvement of the strength (~51%) and ductility (~6.4%) of annealed Cu. The multiscale plasticity mechanisms of the strengthened material are comprehensively investigated. We believe that this low-energy, low-cost and high-quality process can provide a new solution for the industrial application of laser shock at high temperatures.

The spectra of the plasma emitted from the studied samples consist of several dozens of narrow bands superimposed on each other. Tables of spectral lines were used to interpret the spectra. It turned out that the largest number of bands corresponds to the radiation of positively charged ions and atoms of elements that make up the crystal lattices of minerals that make up the studied rocks. Thus, the spectra of the plasma emitted from quartz corresponded to the radiation of atoms and positively charged silicon ions, the charge of which varied from 1 to 4, as well as atoms and positively charged oxygen ions, the charge of which varied from 1 to 3. Positively charged ions and atoms of Si, O, K, Ca, Al and Na, which are part of the crystal lattices of quartz and feldspar, flew out of granites. Positively charged ions and Ca, C and O atoms flew out of the calcite.

Lack of shock absorption capability of conventional steel bollards causes significant vehicle damage and consequently high repair costs. This research studies a solution to reduce vehicle damage by inserting PLA honeycomb structures. A honeycomb-inserted bollard was designed based on numerical simulations using LS-DYNA, which yielded the bollard designed for actual vehicle-bollard collision experiments. Simulation efforts were focused on calculating the acceleration characteristics when a vehicle collides with steel and honeycomb-inserted bollards. Compared to the simulated steel bollards, 20 MPa yield-strength honeycomb-inserted bollard showed 0.017s delay in the maximum acceleration occurrence time, reduction of the maximum acceleration to 37.4% of that of steel bollards, and 13.1% reduction in the B-pillar maximum acceleration. Actual vehicle-bollard collision experiments, with a gyro-sensor installed at the test vehicle front bumper frame, also proved improved shock absorption characteristics of the honeycomb-inserted bollards. An experiment with honeycomb-inserted bollard showed 0.783s delay in the maximum acceleration occurrence time, a significant delay when compared to steel bollards. The maximum acceleration measured by the gyro-sensor was 0.35m/s2 when the simulation predicted it to be 0.388 m/s2, proving the similarity in the simulations and experiments. Thus, this study of shock absorption characteristics promised reduced damage to vehicles and lower repair cost.

Influence of particle size on the mechanical strength of alkali activated material from waste refractory monolithic was investigated in this study. Precursor was chemically and mineralogically analysed, separated on 4 fractions and alkali activated with Na-water glass. Alkali activated materials were thoroughly investigated under SEM and XRD to evaluate the not predicted differences in mechanical strength. Time dependence of curing temperature on mechanical strength was investigated in the sample prepared from a fraction that caused the highest compressive strength.

Federated Learning (FL) represents a promising distributed learning methodology, particularly suitable for dynamic and heterogeneous environments characterized by the presence of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and Edge Computing infrastructures. In this context, FL allows you to train machine learning models directly on edge devices, mitigating data privacy concerns and reducing latency due to transmitting data to central servers. However, the heterogeneity of computational resources, the variability of network connections, and the mobility of IoT devices pose significant challenges to the efficient implementation of FL. This work explores advanced techniques for dynamic model adaptation and heterogeneous data management in edge computing scenarios, proposing innovative solutions to improve the robustness and efficiency of federated learning. We present an innovative solution based on Kubernetes which enables the fast application of FL models to Heterogeneous Architectures. Experimental results demonstrate that our proposals can improve the performance of FL in IoT and edge environments, offering new perspectives for the practical implementation of decentralized intelligent systems.

We conducted an in-situ crystal structure analysis of ferroselite at non-ambient conditions. The aim is to provide a solid ground to further the understanding of the properties of this material in a broad range of conditions. Ferroselite, marcasite-type FeSe2, was studied under high pressures up to 46 GPa and low temperatures, down to 50 K using single-crystal microdiffraction techniques. High pressure and low temperatures were generated using a diamond anvil cell and a cryostat. We found no evidences of structural instability in the explored P-T space. The deformation of the orthorhombic lattice is slightly anisotropic. As expected, the compressibility of the Se-Se dumbbell, the longer bond in the structure, is larger than that of the Fe-Se bonds. Less obvious is the behavior of the octahedral bonds, the shorter bond is the most compressible determining a small increase in the octahedron distortion with pressure. We also achieved a robust structural analysis of ferroselite at low temperature in the diamond anvil cell. Structural changes upon temperature decrease are small but qualitatively similar to those produced by pressure.

This paper presents an approach to improve the robustness of tip-tilt controllers for fast-steering mirror (FSM)-based laser beam steering (LBS) systems in the presence of dynamic disturbances such as external shocks. To this end, we propose the addition of a disturbance observer (DOB)-based anti-shock controller in parallel to the original linear servo control loop to improve its control performance in the presence of external shocks. To increase the tip-tilt control performance against external shocks, the DOB-based control method, which is an improved control method for eliminating nonperiodic disturbances, is implemented in the original tip-tilt control system. Results indicate that the control error of the DOB-based anti-shock controller decreased, resulting in an efficient improvement in its disturbance-rejection performance.

Adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing is a highly conserved regulatory process carried out by adenosine-deaminases (ADARs) on dsRNAs. Although a considerable fraction of the transcriptome is edited, the function of most editing sites is unknown. Previous studies indicate changes in A-to-I RNA editing frequencies following exposure to several stress types. However, the overall effect of stress on the expression of ADAR targets is not fully understood. Here, we performed high-throughput RNA sequencing of wild-type and ADAR mutant C. elegans worms after heat-shock to analyze the effect of heat-shock stress on the expression pattern of genes. We found that ADAR regulation following heat-shock does not directly involve heat-shock related genes. Our analysis also revealed that lncRNAs and pseudogenes, which have a tendency for secondary RNA structures, are enriched among upregulated genes following heat-shock in ADAR mutant worms. The same group of genes is downregulated in ADAR mutant worms under permissive conditions, which is likely, considering that A-to-I editing protects endogenous dsRNA from RNA-interference (RNAi). Therefore, temperature increases may destabilize dsRNA structures and protect them from RNAi degradation, despite the lack of ADAR function. These findings shed new light on the dynamics of gene expression under heat-shock in relation to ADAR function.

In this paper, the current technologies of the regenerative shock absorber systems have been categorized and evaluated. Three drive modes of the regenerative shock absorber systems, namely the direct drive mode, the indirect drive mode and hybrid drive mode are reviewed for their readiness to be implemented. The damping performances of the three different modes are listed and compared. Electrical circuit and control algorithms have also been evaluated to maximize the power output and to deliver the premium ride comfort and handling performance. Different types of parameterized road excitations have been applied to vehicle suspension systems to investigate the performance of the regenerative shock absorbers including that of the nonlinear regenerative shock absorber. The research gaps for comparison of the different drive modes and the nonlinearity analysis of the regenerative shock absorbers are identified and, the corresponding research questions have been proposed for future work.

In the present paper some questions related with energy global governance are dis-cussed. These questions are viewed as a part of the broader problematics of globalization. Due to the very complex nature of this problematics the role of philosophy – in particular analytical and science-based philosophy – is emphasized. We underscore the importance of philosophy for the developing global consciousness and – indirectly – for the development of global society.

We present a new unsupervised method aimed to obtain a partition of a complex urban system in homogenous urban areas, called urban contexts. The area of study is initially partitioned in microzones, homogeneous portion of the urban system, that are the atomic reference elements for the census data. With the contribution of domain experts, we identify the physical, morphological, environmental and socio-economic indicators need to identify synthetic characteristics of urban contexts and create the fuzzy rule set necessary to determine the type of urban context. We implement the set of spatial analysis processes necessary to calculate the indicators for microzone and apply a Mamdani fuzzy rule system to classify the microzones. Finally, the partition of the area of study in urban contexts is obtained by dissolving continuous microzones belonging to the same type of urban context. Tests are performed on the Municipality of Pozzuoli (Naples - Italy); the reliability of out model is measured by comparing the results with the ones obtained by detailed analysis.

All over the world birds’ eggs are an important and valuable component of the human diet. The study aimed to compare the content of lipid components and their nutritional value as well as iron and zinc levels in chicken and quail eggs commonly available on the market. In egg lipids, unsaturated acids were dominated, especially oleic acid, the content of which was about 40% of total fatty acids (TFA). Linoleic acid was the major polyunsaturated fatty acid. Compared to other products of animal origin, eggs were characterized by favourable values of lipid quality indices, especially index of atherogenicity, thrombogenicity and hypocholesterolemic to hypercholesterolemic ratio. In the present study, no differences in the content of tested nutrients between eggs from different production methods (organic, free-range, barn, cages), as well as inter-breed differences were noticed. Cluster analysis showed that eggs enriched in n3 PUFA (according to producers’ declaration) differ from other groups of chicken eggs. However, only in eggs from one producer, the amount of EPA and DHA exceed 80 mg per 100 g, entitling to use the nutrition claim on the package. Quail eggs differed from chicken eggs in FA profile; they also had much higher iron and cholesterol levels.

The complexity of plastic polymers and even more so of additives has increased enormously in recent years. This makes the high-quality recycling of mixed plastic waste considerably more difficult. Some additives have now been strictly regulated or even completely banned for good reasons ('legacy additives'). Material or mechanical recycling generally utilises old plastics that still contain these substances. Consequently, products that are manufactured using such recyclates are contaminated with these harmful substances. We therefore recommend avoiding the use of these recyclates for products with intensive contact with consumers until further notice. We also show that the climate policy challenges for the plastics (and chemical) industry necessitate a defossilisation ('feedstock change'). This turnaround can only succeed if solely high-quality recycling takes place in future; recyclates should primarily replace virgin plastics. This can only work if used plastics with a high degree of homogeneity and known formulation are collected separately, as is already the case today with PET bottles. In this context, we would like to point out inconsistencies in the current legislation on the European emissions trading system.

Abstract: Brassinosteroids (BR) are essential plant hormones that play a crucial role in regulating plant growth and development, as well as their resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, including pathogen infections. In the context of plant im-munity, BR influence various processes such as the expression of genes related to pathogen defense, the production of antimicrobial compounds, and the re-inforcement of the plant cell structure. The aim of work is understand the role of BR in plant defense against abiotic and biotic stresses. BR are involved in the regulation of metabolic processes, water economy, and photosynthesis, contributing to increased plant resistance to abiotic stresses. The study discusses various mechanisms of BR action on plant immunity, including the regulation of gene expression related to defense, activation of the plant defense system, in-teraction with other plant hormones, regulation of water and salt balance, and influence on photosynthetic processes. In the context of plant immunity, BR influence various processes, including the expression of genes related to pathogen defense, the production of antimicrobial compounds, and the reinforcement of the plant cell structure. Additionally, BR are involved in the regulation of metabolic processes, water economy, and photosynthesis, con-tributing to increased plant resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses. The paper emphasizes the importance of further research on the role and mechanisms of action of BR in plant immunity, which may contribute to the development of more effective strategies for the use of BR in agriculture, horticulture, and plant protection.

The effect of salinity on seed germination/emergence in narrow-leaved ash (Fraxinus angustifolia) was studied both under field and laboratory conditions, in order to detect critical values to NaCl exposure. Research Highlights: Novel statistical methods in germination ecology has been applied (i) to determine the effects of chilling length and salinity (up to 150 mM NaCl) on Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. oxycarpa seed emergence, and (ii) to estimate threshold limits treating germination response to salinity as a biomarker. Background and Objectives: Salinity cut values at germination stage had relevant interest for conservation and restoration aims of Mediterranean floodplain forests in coastal areas subjected to salt spray exposure and/or saline water introgression. Results: Salinity linearly decreased germination/emergence both in the field and laboratory tests. Absence of germination was observed at 70 mM NaCl in the field and at 150 mM NaCl for 4-week (but not for 24-week) chilling. At 50 mM NaCl germination percentage was 50% (or 80%) of control for 4-week (or 24- week) chilling. Critical values for salinity were estimated between freshwater and 50 (75) mM NaCl for 4-week (24-week) chilling by Bayesian analysis. After 7-week freshwater recovery, critical cut-off values included all tested salinity levels up to 150 mM NaCl, indicating a marked resumption of seedling emergence. Conclusions: Fraxinus angustifolia is able to germinate at low salinity and to tolerate temporarily moderate salinity conditions for about two months. Prolonged chilling widened salinity tolerance.

A gas-hydrate method of CO₂ gas storage is one of the modern technology for reducing it emissions into the atmosphere. The breakup of gas bubbles by a shock wave is an actual area of scientific and technological research. However, it is little known that such research began in the late 1950s in the USSR. The article presents the main discoveries related to the destruction of gas bubbles in a liquid under the influence of a shock wave, made more than 60 years ago. Looking back: study the past to understand the present.

The process of shock wave focusing can make the strength of shock waves be continuously accumulated and turned into detonation wave in Pulse Detonation Engine (PDE). However, its effective application needs the inlet jets be in high temperature and velocity, which is difficult to be satisfied under certain conditions. Therefore, in this paper, metal magnesium assisted detonation initiation is proposed and the effect of magnesium particle addition on the shock wave focusing process in a kerosene-fueled PDE with cavity configuration is investigated through numerical simulation. The result showed that when the temperature of the premixed fuel/air jets injected in opposite direction was set as 650 K, the collision of leading shock waves on the central axis was the main source of energy deposition and the shock wave focusing could make the detonation be initiated in the cavity. When the temperature of jets is reduced to 550 K, fuel ignition and detonation could not be achieved through shock wave focusing. Then adding metal magnesium particles into the combustor made the energy deposition be enhanced and the detonation be induced. The diffusion of metal particles can significantly change the structure, motion, merging and dissipation of vortices in the flow field. Generally, the shock wave focusing process is basically not affected with metal particles injection. Therefore, this method can be successfully employed for detonation initiation in the cavity when the fuel/air premixed jet temperature is not high for PDE.

The frequency of earthquakes in South Korea is increasing. This study aimed to examine and identify the factors influencing the degree of disaster-incident-related shock among Korean nursing students with the disaster experience. The study sample consisted of 153 nursing students who have been living around Phohang-si in Gyeongsang-do, South Korea, and who having the experience of disaster-incident-related shock. Measures were Impact of Event Scale, Perceived health status scale, Psychological Well-Being Scale, and Coping Strategy Indicator in Korean version. The data collection period was from October to December, 2018. The factor that was found to have the most influence on disaster-incident-related shock among Korean nursing students was the perceived health status (β = 0.48), followed by gender (β = -0.28), coping skill (β = 0.18), psychological well-being (β = 0.14), need for disaster education (β = 0.12), and major satisfaction (β = -0.12). This study provides preliminary evidence that perceived health status is a major and primary predictor of disaster-incident-related shock among Korean nursing students, next followed by coping skill, and psychological well-being. The findings can be reflected in the pertinent curriculum by actively considering these influence factors in designing nursing education interventions for disaster-incident-related shock in the Korean nursing students.

The paper examines the effects of crude oil price shocks on the Indian economy development and GDP Growth for the period of 2010 till 2018. The present Indian economy growth has been facing the identical issues of escalating the trade disparity and continuing inflation. In this connection, the study focused on the determine relationship between the speculation and crude oil price impact on the Indian economic development activity and GDP growth and the paper investigated the how oil price variations effect on the Indian economy development through different networks, viz. WPI, CP, IIP, GDP, Monetary policy, trade and investment. The paper used methods an GARCH model and description to tool the volatility on both the oil and stock markets and then developed an extension of the vector auto-regression (VAR) models are also applied to determine the oil price shocks effect on macroeconomic indicators and the outcomes of co-integration model propose that crude oil is pro‐cyclical to output, and the paper used VAR investigation to the discrepancy decomposition to capture the linear inter‐dependencies among the variables.

The paper examines the effects of crude oil price shocks on the Indian economy development and GDP Growth for the period of 2010 till 2018. The present Indian economy growth has been facing the identical issues of escalating the trade disparity and continuing inflation. In this connection, the study focused on the determine relationship between the speculation and crude oil price impact on the Indian economic development activity and GDP growth and the paper investigated the how oil price variations effect on the Indian economy development through different networks, viz. WPI, CP, IIP, GDP, Monetary policy, trade and investment. The paper used methods an GARCH model and description to tool the volatility on both the oil and stock markets and then developed an extension of the vector auto-regression (VAR) models are also applied to determine the oil price shocks effect on macroeconomic indicators and the outcomes of co-integration model propose that crude oil is pro‐cyclical to output, and the paper used VAR investigation to the discrepancy decomposition to capture the linear inter‐dependencies among the variables.

Outer particles collision with certain dynamic object is not a pure impact wear behavior; it is typically accompanied by sliding wear phenomena. This study aimed investigating the impact-sliding wear performance of three different TC17 titanium alloys. One was untreated, and the other two were subjected to laser shock peening (LSP) by 5 and 7 J pulse energy, respectively. Wear test was performed on a novel impact-sliding wear testing rig, which can realize multiple impact-sliding motions by changing motion parameters in x and z directions. Present results showed that wear resistance of both treated samples improved compared with the untreated alloy. Given the increase in wear cycles, increment in wear rate of the untreated sample was constantly higher than those of treated samples. All results can be attributed to the increase in surface hardness of the material and residual compressive stress, which was also introduced after LSP.

The three-dimensional single fin configuration finds application in an intake geometry where the cowl-shock wave interacts with the side-wall boundary-layer. Accurate numerical simulation of such three-dimensional shock/turbulent boundary-layer interaction flows, which are characterized by the appearance of strong crossflow separation, is a challenging task. Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes computations using the shock-unsteadiness modified Spalart-Allmaras model is carried out at Mach of 5 at large fin angle of 23^◦. The computed results using the modified model are compared to the standard Spalart-Allmaras model and validated against the experimental data. The focus of work is to implement the modified model and to study the flow physics in detail in the complex region of swept-shock-wave turbulent boundary-layer interaction in terms of the shock structure, expansion fan, shear layer and the surface streamlines. The flow structure is correlated to the wall pressure and skin friction in detail. It is observed that the standard model predicts an initial pressure location downstream of the experiments. The modified model reduces the eddy viscosity at the shock and predicts close to the experiments. Overall, the surface pressure using modified model is predicted accurately at all the locations. The skin friction is under predicted by both the models in the reattachment region and is attributed to the poor performance of turbulence models due to flow laminarization.

Dehydrolutein accumulates in substantial concentrations in the retina. The aim of this study was to compare antioxidant properties of dehydrolutein with other retinal carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, and their effects on ARPE-19 cells. The time-resolved detection of characteristic singlet oxygen phosphorescence was used to compare the singlet oxygen quenching rate constants of dehydrolutein, lutein, and zeaxanthin. The effects of these carotenoids on photosensitized oxidation were tested in liposomes, where photooxidation was induced by light in the presence of photosensitizers, and monitored by oximetry. To compare the uptake of dehydrolutein, lutein, and zeaxanthin, ARPE-19 cells were incubated with carotenoids for up to 19 days, and carotenoid contents were determined by spectrophotometry in cell extracts. To investigate the effects of carotenoids on phototocytotoxicity, cells were exposed to light in the presence of rose bengal or all-trans-retinal. The results demonstrate that the rate constants for singlet oxygen quenching are 0.77x1010, 0.55x1010, and 1.23x1010 M-1s-1 for dehydrolutein, lutein and zeaxanthin, respectively. Overall, dehydrolutein is similar to lutein or zeaxanthin in protection of lipids against photosensitized oxidation. ARPE-19 cells accumulate substantial amounts of both zeaxanthin and lutein but no detectable amounts of dehydrolutein. Cells pre-incubated with carotenoids are equally susceptible to photosensitized damage as cells without carotenoids. Carotenoids provided to cells together with the extracellular photosensitizers offer partial protection against photodamage. In conclusion, the antioxidant properties of dehydrolutein are similar to lutein and zeaxanthin. The mechanism responsible for its lack of accumulation in ARPE-19 cells deserves further investigation.

Cyanobacterial blooms occur with increasing frequency in freshwater ecosystems, posing a hazard to human and environmental health. Exposure of human to cyanobacterial metabolites occurs mostly via accidental ingestion through contaminated drinking water or during recreational activities and, most frequently, results in gastrointestinal symptoms. Despite the clinical manifestation, cyanobacterial metabolites are rather investigated for their toxicity towards specific organs or tissues, especially hepato-, nephro- and neurotoxicity, then for effects on the gastrointestinal tract and the associated lymphoid tissue. The aim of this review was to systematically summarize available literature on the effects on the gastrointestinal tract and the mucosal innate immune system and compile the data from both, in vitro and in vivo studies, focusing on human-health relevant models. Our systematic literature review revealed significant data gaps in the understanding on metabolites breaching the gastrointestinal barrier and the role of the immune system in the establishment of clinical symptoms. Microcystins and cylindrospermopsin were linked to gastrointestinal symptoms, immune system effects or both. Furthermore, implications for cyanobacterial bloom lipopolysaccharides in gastrointestinal inflammation were reported in several cases, while other metabolites received only minor attention. The collected data indicate the need for a reassessment of potential enterotoxicity of microcystins and cylindrospermopsin. Additionally, the carcinogenic potential of cyanotoxins, especially microcystins, has to be clarified, as an increasing amount of epidemiological studies show correlations between cyanobacterial blooms and gastrointestinal cancer incidence. Furthermore, other, often highly abundant bioactive metabolites like aeruginosins, have to be toxicologically evaluated at levels also accounting for (sub-)chronic exposure to low concentrations and in combination with naturally co-occurring metabolites, as can be expected in drinking water supplies. studies, focusing on human-health relevant models. Our systematic literature review revealed significant data gaps in the understanding on metabolites breaching the gastrointestinal barrier and the role of the immune system in the establishment of clinical symptoms. Microcystins and cylindrospermopsin were linked to gastrointestinal symptoms, immune system effects or both. Furthermore, implications for cyanobacterial bloom lipopolysaccharides in gastrointestinal inflammation were reported in several cases, while other metabolites received only minor attention. The collected data indicate the need for a reassessment of potential enterotoxicity of microcystins and cylindrospermopsin. Additionally, the carcinogenic potential of cyanotoxins, especially microcystins, has to be clarified, as an increasing amount of epidemiological studies show correlations between cyanobacterial blooms and gastrointestinal cancer incidence. Furthermore, other, often highly abundant bioactive metabolites like aeruginosins, have to be toxicologically evaluated at levels also accounting for (sub-)chronic exposure to low concentrations and in combination with naturally co-occurring metabolites, as can be expected in drinking water supplies.

This article is a commentary on the publication Guo J, Hai H, Ma Y. Application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in nervous system diseases: A review. Front Neurol. (2022) 13:963849. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2022.963849 (1). In the opinion of the authors of this commentary the information provided in the Section "Principles of ESWT" in (1) is partly incorrect and misleading. This is due to the fact that important, published knowledge regarding focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (fESWT) and radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) was disregarded in (1).

Dietary supplements are more and more often used to increase daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals. These preparations are classified as special category of foods and are subject to food law, not pharmaceutical regulations. As a result the requirements to dietary supplements are much less restrictive than to medications. Also simple and inexpensive procedure of registration causes that the number of dietary supplements is widely spread every year. On every manufacturing phases of dietary supplements, there is a risk of contamination. One of the pollutions might be mercury which is classified as heavy metal. Its inorganic compounds damage kidneys and liver and methylmercury is easily absorbed from gastrointestinal system. Methylmercury is distributed in all tissues, also in nervous system. The aim of study was to determine the level of mercury in multivitamins and multiminerals preparations and to analyze the results. The study included 22 dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals available on Polish market. Mercury was analyzed with atomic absorption spectrometry using AMA 254. The concentrations of Hg was 0.22–5.85 µg/kg (the average content was 2.40 µg/kg). The highest average mercury content was 4.51 µg/kg, whereas the lowest one was 0.31 µg/kg. The results was also analyzed in individual groups depending on main component and indication for use as well as pharmaceutical formulation. Also according to manufacturer’s recommendation, the dose of mercury taken with a single medicine was estimated for time of a day, a week, a month, 3 months and also a year. The findings were compared to limits defined in regulations of European Union and PTWI set by JECFA to assess the health risk. The results presented in this study proved that the amount of mercury in tested dietary supplements is much lower than the value of valid regulations. Analyzed supplements as long as they are used with the recommendation of manufacturer, do not pose a threat to human health.

Background: Bacteria, among the earliest life forms on Earth, are integral to both human health and environmental ecosystems. They contribute to essential processes such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune defense, and play key roles in the biogeochemical cycles that sustain life. Objective: This paper explores the indispensable role of bacteria in human life and environmental health, emphasizing their contributions to digestion, nutrient absorption, immune protection, and ecosystem functioning. It also discusses advances in understanding the human microbiome and their implications for health and therapeutic interventions. Methods: The study reviews existing literature on the human microbiome, probiotics, and the role of bacteria in environmental nutrient cycling. It analyses experimental evidence and case studies, particularly focusing on the impact of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a therapeutic tool. Metagenomic analysis techniques are examined to highlight the diversity and functionality of gut bacteria. Results: Bacteria are found to be essential for breaking down food, providing vital nutrients, and protecting against pathogens. They play a critical role in maintaining a healthy immune system and are involved in the biogeochemical cycles necessary for ecosystem health. Metagenomic analysis reveals significant variations in bacterial populations associated with health and disease, emphasizing the importance of a balanced microbiota. FMT shows promise as an effective treatment for various diseases, including gastrointestinal, metabolic, and neurological disorders. Conclusions: Bacteria are crucial for human health and environmental stability. Maintaining a balanced microbiota is vital for overall well-being, and interventions such as probiotics and FMT can offer significant health benefits. Future research should focus on further understanding the complex interactions between bacteria and their hosts to develop targeted therapies for various health conditions.

Mechanical circulatory support has proven effective in managing postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock by stabilizing patients' hemodynamics and ensuring adequate organ perfusion. Among the available device modalities, the combination of extracorporeal life support and a microaxial flow pump for left ventricular unloading has emerged as a valuable tool in the surgical arma-mentarium. In this publication, we provide recommendations for the application and weaning of temporary mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock patients, derived from a con-sensus among leading cardiac centers in German-speaking countrie

The study proposes laser shock peening without a coating of high strength ultrafine bainitic steel to mitigating the fatigue failures for automotive and structural engineering applications. Laser pulse density of 2500 pulses/cm2 (75% overlapping) was optimised based on the induced residual stresses for employing the wide range of characterisations. The roughness and topographic results showed that surface roughening was controlled by tuning the laser pulse density. The High-Resolution X-ray Diffraction analysis confirmed the lattice misorientation resulting peak shift and the trend towards martensite phase transformations. The electron microscopic micro/nanostructure analyses revealed the grain refinement features such as nano-twins, micro shear bands and shear cells. The work hardening depth and nanomechanical properties were significantly enhanced. A fully reversed (R= -1) high-cycle fatigue tests extended the lifespan by an average of fifteen times than the untreated. Also, it has potential to repair the structural components effectively.

The recent COVID-19 outbreak in China led to a worldwide pandemic associated with a severe acute respiratory illness. A higher incidence of COVID-19 infection was demonstrated in cancer patients, including patients with lung cancer. This study was conducted to get insights into the reasons for this enhanced frequency of COVID-19 infection. Methods: Using different bioinformatic tools, the expression and methylation pattern of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 gene were analyzed in healthy and malignant tissues with a focus on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and correlated to clinical parameters and smoking history. Results: ACE2 and TMPRSS2 were heterogeneously expressed across 36 healthy tissues with the highest expression in digestive, urinary and reproductive organs, while their expression was significantly lower in 36 cancer tissues. In LUAD, ACE2, but not TMPRSS2 was overexpressed, which inversely correlated to the promoter methylation. An age-dependent upregulation of ACE2 expression was found in LUAD compared to normal lung tissues. In a healthy lung, TMPRSS2 expression was dependent on sex and smoking history and downregulated in LUAD of smokers. Cancer progression was associated with decreased TMPRSS2, but unaltered ACE2 expression, while ACE2 expression in lung metastases of different cancers was higher than in metastasis of other sites. TMPRSS2, but not ACE2 expression, was associated with LUAD patients’ survival. Conclusions: Comprehensive molecular analyses revealed a heterogeneous, distinct expression and methylation profile of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in healthy lung vs LUAD tissues across sex, age and smoking history, which is associated with clinical parameters and might have implications for COVID-19 disease.

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are reprogrammed cells that have hallmarks similar to embryonic stem cells including the capacity of self-renewal and differentiation into cardiac myocytes. The improvements in reprogramming and differentiating methods achieved in the past 10 years widened the use of hiPSCs, especially in cardiac research. hiPSC-derived cardiac myocytes (CMs) recapitulate phenotypic differences caused by genetic variations, making them human attractive disease models and useful tools for drug discovery and toxicology testing. In addition, hiPSCs can be used as source cells for cardiac regeneration in animal models. Here, we review the advances in the genetic and epigenetic control of cardiomyogenesis that underlies the significant improvement of the induced reprogramming of somatic cells to CMs. We also cover the phenotypic characteristics of the hiPSCs derived CMs, their ability to rescue injured CMs through paracrine effects, the novel approaches in tissue engineering for hiPSC-derived cardiac tissue generation, and finally, their potential use in biomedical applications.

Background: Alfalfa, the most economically important forage legume worldwide, features modest genetic progress due to long selection cycles and large extent of non-additive genetic variance associated with its autotetraploid genome. Methods: To improve the efficiency of genomic selection in alfalfa, we explored the effects of genome parametrization (as autotetraploid and diploid dosage, plus allele ratios) and SNP marker subsetting (all available SNPs; only genic regions; only non-genic regions) on genomic regressions, together with various levels of filtering on reading depth and missing rates. We used Genotyping by Sequencing-generated data and focused on traits of different genetic complexity, i.e., dry biomass yield in moisture-favorable (FE) and drought stress (SE) environments, leaf size, and onset of flowering, assessed on 143 genotyped plants from a genetically-broad European reference population and their phenotyped half-sib progenies. Results: On average, allele ratio improved the predictive ability compared with other genome parametrizations (+7.9% vs. tetraploid dosage, +12.6% vs. diploid dosage), SNP subsetting offered an advantage compared with any tested subsettings (+3.7% vs. genic regions, +7.6% vs. non-genic regions). However, when focusing on specific traits, different combinations of genome parametrization and subsetting reached better performances. We also released Legpipe2, a SNP calling pipeline tailored for reduced representation (GBS, RAD) medium-sized genotyping experiments.

Ferritin is an indirect marker for total body iron stores. Comparison of the ferritin concentrations in the meconium with the concentrations of proteins regulating iron metabolism could aid better understanding of principles behind the adjustment between the fetal iron pool and newborn body size. Ferritin, transferrin, haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, lactoferrin, myeloperoxidase, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and calprotectin concentrations were measured by ELISA in meconium samples from 122 neonates. The neonates were classified according to the meconium ferritin tertiles and the values were collated with the meconium concentrations of other proteins and newborn body weight and length measurements. Increasing ferritin concentrations in meconium in consecutive tertiles (p < 0.05) were parallel to increased NGAL concentrations (p < 0.05). The interrelationships between the meconium concentrations of transferrin, haptoglobin and NGAL as well as between myeloperoxidase, calprotectin and lactoferrin are maintained in all subsequent tertiles of ferritin concentrations, (p < 0.05). In contrast to ferritin, increasing meconium NGAL concentrations in consecutive tertiles were linked to increased concentrations of transferrin, haptoglobin, lactoferrin and myeloperoxidase (p < 0.05) and of calprotectin, ferritin and ceruloplasmin (p < 0.1). Meconium ceruloplasmin concentrations correlate exclusively with neutrophil granule proteins, i.e. myeloperoxidase, NGAL, lactoferrin and calprotectin (p < 0.05). Meconium ferritin concentrations negatively correlates with birth weight (r= -0.20) and length (r= -0.31) of neonates, whereas NGAL concentrations just with birth length (r= -0.26). The remaining proteins did not show such relationships with the size of the newborn. High meconium concentrations of both ferritin and NGAL may specifically characterize neonates of smaller size. High meconium concentrations of both ferritin and NGAL may specifically characterize neonates with lower body measurements. Correlations between meconium transferrin, haptoglobin and NGAL may confirm the interrelationships of these proteins for proper iron control and transport in the intrauterine environment. Meconium ceruloplasmin concentrations may reflect the control of neutrophil activity in utero.

(Background) Phytotoxicity refers to the capacity of chemical substances or environmental factors to have a negative impact on plants. This is a crucial issue in both the context of crop cultivation and environmental protection. (Material and Methods) The research results were based on a 3-year field experiment conducted at the experimental station in Jadwisin (52°28′ N, 21°02′ E) on loamy soil. The experiment was set up using a randomized sub-block design in a split-split-plot arrangement, with three replications. The first-order factor consisted of potato cultivars, while the second-order factors were weed control methods: 1) Control – without protection; 2) mechanical weed control, extensive mechanical treatments to close rows; 3) Sencor 70 WG – pre-emergence (PRE) of potatoes; 4) Sencor 70 WG + Titus 25 WG + Trend 90 EC – PRE of potatoes; 5) Sencor 70 WG – post-emergence (POST) of potatoes; 6) Sencor 70 WG + Titus 25 WG + Trend 90 EC – POST of potatoes; 7) Sencor 70 WG + Fusilade Forte 150 EC – POST of potatoes; 8) Sencor 70 WG + Apyros 75 WG + Atpolan 80 SC – POST of potatoes. The phytotoxic effects of herbicides on potato plants and weeds were assessed every 7 days, starting from the date when the first signs of damage appeared, until they stabilized or disappeared. (Results:) Phytotoxic damage to potato and weed plants were caused by the chemical weed control methods used. The response of potato plants to herbicides was significantly related to the genetic traits of the cultivars and meteorological conditions in the years of research. (Conclusion:) Phytotoxicity is an important aspect in both agriculture and environmental protection. Research on its mechanisms and impact will enable the development of effective plant protection strategies and the preservation of ecosystem balance.

Sepsis is defined as life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to an infection. Recent in-vitro studies have investigated the effects of CytoSorb hemoadsorption on endothelial function in sepsis showing a reduction in markers of endothelial dysfunction, but to this day there is a lack of clinical studies showing whether this approach could actually positively influence the disturbed vascular barrier function in septic conditions. We analyzed the data on administered fluid volumes and catecholamines to determine the potential benefit of CytoSorb hemoadsorption therapy on endothelial function in a clinical scenario. We performed a retrospective analysis of 124 septic shock patients who had undergone adjunctive treatment with CytoSorb hemadsorption therapy. We collected volume requirements, and calculated the volume balance within different time periods to obtain an assumption on the stability of the vascular barrier. We also calculated catecholamine requirements. With regard to the entire study cohort our findings revealed a significant reduction in fluid balance at 72 hours (T72) compared to both baseline (T0) and the 24-hour mark (T24). Fluid balances from T72 – T0 were significantly lower in hospital survivors compared to non-survivors. Patients who received a second catecholamine had a significantly lower in-hospital mortality. Our findings showed that use of hemoadsorption therapy results in a reduced positive fluid balance paralleled by reductions in vasopressor needs suggesting a positive effect on endothelial integrity. These results, derived from a large cohort of patients, provide valuable insights that may greatly improve our understanding of the multiple effects of hemoadsorption treatment in septic shock patients.

Considering tumors from an evolucionary perspective, successive tumor cells undergo turnover in response to stressful conditions which pressures tumor cells to adapt to a new environment. Tumor cells uses parts of themselves to communicate and share biological information, known as extracellular vesicles (EV) secretion to promote their survival and “survive to each and every metabolic cost”. Tumor microenvironment (TME) is a miscellaneous of cells, factors, extracellular matrix proteins and EVs. EVs include smalls (<160nm, exosomes) and larger (100-1,000nm, microvesicles) lipid bilayer enclosed packages of biomolecules that are shed by tumors to TME. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles transfer adaptative stress signaling to recipient cells, reprograming these cells. Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) are more prominent stress response regulators found in exosomes. HSP-loaded exosomes actively reprogram tumor and TME cells to acquire mechanisms that contribute to tumor progression and therapy resistance. The intercellular communication mediated by HSP-loaded EVs favors the escape of tumor cells from, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, hypoxia, apoptosis and anti-cancer therapies. Extracellular HSPs activate and deactivate immune response, induce cell differentiation, changes vascular homeostasis, and help to augment the pre-metastatic niche formation. Here we will explore the EV mechanism of HSP transmission among TME cells and the relevance of these intercellular communications for resistance to therapies in cancer.

Globally and in Hungary, agriculture is one of the most vulnerable sectors to weather and climate extremes. Intense temperature rises, spatial and temporal variations in precipitation, and significant changes in extreme climatological and weather parameters have contributed to changes in the conditions of cropland, crop losses, and crop quality in recent years. The aim of the research is to describe the transformation of the domestic agricultural sector due to the extreme drought shock of 2022 and to explore the adaptation strategies applied. The studies are based on their own agro-climate database and crop data. The results can help smallholders effectively reduce the adverse impacts, thereby increasing their adaptation to similar shocks.

Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), induced by heat shock, environmental, and pathophysiological stressors, is a multi-dimensional protein that acts as a protein chaperone and an antioxidant. HSP27 plays a major role in the inhibition of apoptosis and actin cytoskeletal remodeling. HSP27 is upregulated in many cancers and is associated with poor prognosis, as well as treatment resistance whereby cells are protected from therapeutic agents that normally induce apoptosis. This review highlights the most recent findings and role of HSP27 in cancer, as well as strategies for using HSP27 inhibitors for therapeutic purposes.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a wheat disease caused by fungi of the genus Fusarium. The aim of the study was to find relationships between the weather conditions in the experimental years and the locations and the amount of F. culmorum DNA and trichothecene genotypes, as well as the proportions between them. A three-year field experiment (2017, 2018 and 2019) was established at two locations (Poznań, Radzików). F. culmorum DNA was detected in all grain samples in an average amount of 20124 pg per 1 g of wheat DNA. The average amount of DNA from the 3ADON genotype was 4879 pg/μg and the amount of DNA from the NIV genotype was 3330 pg/μg. In the three experimental years, a large variability was observed in the coefficients of correlation between DNA concentrations and the FHB index, FDK, ergosterol, and the corresponding toxins. There were significant correlations between disease incidence, fungal biomass (quantified as the total amount of fungal DNA or DNA trichothecene genotypes) and toxins (DON, 3AcDON and NIV) concentrations. The 3ADON trichothecene genotype dominates over the NIV genotype (ratio 1.5); however, this varied greatly depending on environmental conditions.

This article deals with the possibility of partial replacement of blast furnace slag with fly ash after denitrification by the Selective Non-Catalytic Reduction (SNCR) method in alkali-activated materials. In the experiment, the basic physical-mechanical properties and durability properties were tested, the hydration reaction was monitored in a calorimeter and infrared spectroscopy was performed. Results were compared between mixtures prepared with fly ash without denitrification and also with reference mixture based only on alkali-activated blast furnace slag. The basic result is the finding, that hybrid alkali-systems with fly ash after denitrification show similar trends as hybrid alkali-systems with fly ash without denitrification. The significant effect of fly ash is manifested especially in terms of resistance to freeze-thaw. The reactions in the calorimeter show a slower development of reactions with increasing replacement of slag by fly ash. In the case of testing resistance to leaching in demineralised water, a decrease of flexural strength was found, which corresponds to the conclusions of strength testing, that long-term deposition of bodies in water causes deterioration of mechanical properties.

The non-linear analysis of hollow-core concrete slabs requires the use of advanced numerical techniques, proper constitutive models both for concrete and steel as well as particular computational skills. If prestressing, cracking, crack opening, material softening, etc. are also to be taken into account, then the computational task can far exceed the capabilities of an ordinary engineer. In order for the calculations to be carried out in a traditional design office, simplified calculation methods are needed. Preferably based on the linear finite element (FE) method with a simple approach that takes into account material nonlinearities. In this paper the simplified analysis of hollow-core slabs based on the generalized nonlinear constitutive law is presented. In the proposed method a simple decomposition of the traditional iterative linear finite element analysis and the non-linear algebraic analysis of the plate cross-section is used. Through independent analysis of the plate cross-section in different deformation states, a degraded plate stiffness can be obtained, which allows iterative update of displacements and rotations in the nodes of the FE model. Which in turn allows to update the deformation state and then correct translations and rotations in the nodes again. The results obtained from the full detailed 3D nonlinear FEM model and from the proposed approach are compared for different slab cross-sections. The obtained results from both models are consistent.

Alkali-activated materials are alternative building binders, where secondary raw materials are processed. Possibility to use landfilled waste materials in their preparation, increases their potential application in construction practice, and therefore they are subject to extensive research, especially in recent years. This paper briefly summarizes interesting results of an experiment aimed at verifying the possibility of applying cement by-pass dust (CBPD) in the preparation of alkali-activated materials. The research work was focused on the possibilities of using these wastes for the preparation of small elements of garden architecture. The paper briefly evaluates in particular the results of X-ray diffraction, which were subjected to three types of binder pastes differing in the amount of used activator. In the experiment, a mixture of blast furnace granulated slag, fly ash and cement by-pass dust was alkali activated with sodium metasilicate.

In this paper, we have analysed the level of advancement in circular economy (CE) in the EU-28 countries. Firstly, we used a synthetic measure to examine CE advancement in EU countries in each of the Eurostat CE distinguished areas, i.e. production and consumption, waste management, secondary raw materials, and competitiveness and innovation. For the empirical analysis, we applied 17 Eurostat indicators to the CE areas. To find the synthetic measure in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016, we used multidimensional comparative analysis, i.e. a zero unitarisation method. Secondly, based on the synthetic measures of the CE areas, we created a general synthetic measure of the CE advancement of the EU-28 countries as well as the countries’ rankings. Thirdly, we classified the countries into groups according to their level of advancement in CE, i.e. high level, medium-high level, medium-low level, and low level groups. Finally, we applied a similarity measure to evaluate the correlation between obtained rankings in two most extreme moments in the period of analysis (2010, 2016). Our analysis covers all EU member states, as well as "old" and "new" EU countries separately. Our results confirm that highly developed Benelux countries, i.e. Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Belgium, have the highest CE advancement level. Malta, Cyprus, Estonia, and Greece are the least advanced in CE practice. Apart from that, on average, there is some progress in CE implementation, significant disproportions between the EU countries were observed, especially among the "new" member states.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a reversible cellular program that transiently places epithelial (E) cells into pseudo-mesenchymal (M) cell states. The malignant progression and resistance of many types of carcinomas depends on EMT activation, partial EMT and hybrid E/M status in neoplastic cells. EMT is activated by tumor microenvironmental TGFβ signal and EMT-inducing transcription factors, such as ZEB1/2 in tumor cells. However, reverse EMT factors are less studied. We demonstrate that transcription factor SCAND1 can revert mesenchymal and hybrid E/M phenotype of cancer cells to a more epithelial, less invasive status and inhibit their proliferation and migration. SCAND1 is a SCAN domain-containing protein and hetero-oligomerizes with SCAN-zinc finger transcription factors, such as MZF1, for accessing DNA and transcriptional co-repression of target genes. We found that SCAND1-MZF1 co-expression and interaction correlated with maintaining epithelial features, whereas the simultaneous loss of SCAND1 and MZF1 correlated with mesenchymal features of tumor cells. Overexpression of SCAND1 over endogenous MZF1 in DU-145 prostate cancer cells reverted their hybrid E/M status into cobblestone morphology with increased epithelial adhesion by E-cadherin and β-catenin relocation. Consistently, co-expression analysis in TCGA PanCancer Atlas revealed that both SCAND1 and MZF1 co-express and are negatively correlated with EMT driver genes, including CTNNB1, ZEB1, ZEB2 and TGFBR, in prostate tumor specimens. In addition, SCAND1 overexpression suppressed tumor cell proliferation by reducing the MAP3K-MEK-ERK signaling pathway. Of note, SCAND1-overexpressing DU-145 cells migrated slower than control cells with decreased lymph node metastasis of prostate cancer in a mouse tumor xenograft model. Kaplan-Meyer analysis showed high expression of MZF1 and SCAND1 to correlate with better prognoses in pancreatic cancer and head and neck cancers, although with poorer prognosis in kidney cancer. Overall, these data suggest that the combination of SCAND1-MZF1 complexes may revert the EMT mechanism in cancer to establish an epithelial phenotype. These effects seem to include co-repression of EMT-driver genes and suppression of tumor cell proliferation via inhibition of the MAP3K-MEK-ERK signaling pathway.

1. Background Septic shock is a rare and serious infectious disease. Patients surviving the early phase are at high risk of multiple amputations of limbs. They are potential sources of serious disability. 2. Methods The objective was to describe the functional prognosis and quality of life of the four-limb amputee patients following septic shock. This is a descriptive, retrospective and mono-centric study. The patients included between 2010 and 2019 had septic shock after 18 years, responsible for amputation of the four limbs. We studied the mean age of septic shock, the causative organisms, the infectious door enter, the different levels of amputation, the fitting process, the resumption of walking, the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and the SF-12 Quality of Life Questionnaire. 3. Results We suceed to include 15 patients.. 53.3% women and 46.7% men with an average age of 46.1 years. 80% presented bilateral trans-tibial amputations, all were able to return walking even over short distances, within an average of 8.4 months. 40% did not require a technical walking aid, 33.3% had no walking perimeter limitation. 47% had a higher mental and social quality of life score than the general population. The younger the patients, the better their physical quality of life. After two years of follow-up, the younger the patients, the better their functional autonomy. Patients with better functional autonomy had a better physical quality of life. 4. Conclusion The number of amputations due to spetic shock is likely to increase in the years to come throughout the world. Our study prove that quadri-amputee patient can regain a fully acceptable functional and quality of life being monitored in a specialized health center with multidisciplinary health professional to help him.

In this paper, we investigated the capacitive effect and the electromagnetic coupling on the measurement chain induced by the gas gun or the powder gun during impact experiments. Reduced bandwidth and noise have been noticed on experimental signals. Rogowski coil measurements have been added on the cables to characterize the electromagnetic coupling. The perturbation currents on the cables have been quantified depending on the configuration. The gauge, the transmission line and the conditioning system have been modeled. The calculations have reproduced the electrical wave arrival time, the transmission line transfer impedance, the conditioning system transfer impedance and it shows the bandwidth limitation. A capacitive effect with the piezoresistive manganin gauge embedded into the sample has been identified depending on the experimental setup.