Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common malignant tumor of the pancreas, carrying a poor prognosis, in most cases patients being diagnosed in a nonresectable stage. Image-based artificial intelligence (AI) models implemented in tumor detection, segmentation and classification could improve diagnosis with better treatment options and increased survival. This review included papers published in the last 5 years and describes the current trends in AI algorithms used in PDAC. We analyzed the applications of AI in detection of PDAC, segmentation of the lesion and classification algorithms used in differential diagnosis, prognosis, and histopathological and genomic prediction. The results show lack of multi-institutional collaboration and stresses the need for bigger datasets in order for AI models to be implemented in a clinically relevant manner.

Life Cycle Cost Analysis is a method used to assess long-term economic efficiency among equivalent competing processes or products. The purpose of the paper is to investigate the nature and level of costs for an organic orchard located in Southern Romania, using a complex approach covering the entire chain of production, through the life span. The research results, based on a dynamic analysis and an integrated evaluation of the orchard's performance, have been ranked on investment and operational costs, broken down on three categories (establishment and production, post-harvest and transport costs). The highest cost, representing 151726 euros/ha/20 years, about 52.72% of the total operational costs and 50.4% of the total farm costs/ha/20 years, was recorded in exploitation stage. The scenarios for the sensitivity analysis considered different levels of average yield (40, and, respectively 60 tons/ha) with different rate of sold production (85%, optimistic scenario; 70%, pessimistic scenario). The hotpoints identified at the production stage were use of agricultural machinery, several pesticides, the costs of seedlings, anti-hail net, plastic boxes and labor cost, while at the post-harvest stage, were those related to labor and energy consumption. The transport stage has had important costs with tractor operation and the track.

This research delves into the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and management of hyperprolactinemia, particularly focusing on prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas, or prolactinomas, in Dolj County, a region historically underrepresented in medical literature. Hyperprolactinemia, a prevalent endocrine disorder, arises from excessive prolactin secretion by the pituitary gland's lactotrope cells and presents a diverse clinical picture. The most significant etiological contributors identified are prolactinomas, accounting for approximately 39% of all secretory pituitary tumors. In light of hyperprolactinemia's substantial morbidity and prevalence, this study underscores the necessity of comprehensive understanding of its regional epidemiology and clinical presentations. Our methodology incorporated collecting retrospective data across various medical facilities in Dolj, ensuing a meticulous analysis of clinical features, paraclinical investigation outcomes, and therapeutic responses among patients with prolactinomas. Emphasis was placed on discerning risk factors, demographic characteristics, and associated comorbidities to encapsulate the full spectrum of these tumors' impact within the community. Preliminary results suggest a nuanced incidence rate of prolactinomas within Dolj, with specific demographic and clinical trends potentially distinct from those reported in wider literature. These findings stress the critical role of localized studies in enhancing screening, diagnostic, and therapeutic protocols. Ultimately, this investigation offers critical insights into the epidemiology and symptomatology of prolactinomas in Dolj, significantly augmenting existing literature and informing regional medical practices.

In the present study we introduce a deterministic mathematical model in order to study the interaction between the human immune system and a virus, like COVID 19. The mathematical analysis is based on the tools of dynamical systems theory, by modeling the interactions between the immune system and the virus, using a predator-prey method and following the ideas of G. Moza, from \cite{TGV}. It will be obtained some conclusions with medical relevance and the main three of them are the followings: 1) A deficiency of a single type of immunity in the early stages of virus proliferation, may lead to a large virus multiplication and the human body can loses the fight against this virus; 2) If the level of all components of the immunity system are at the normal threshold from the first moment of the infection and the immune system kill the virus at higher rate than the rate of virus reproduction, then the human body has the ability to stop the multiplication of the virus and liquidate it, that means the virus will be destroyed; 3) If the level of at least one type of immunity can be increased beyond the normal threshold, by medical interventions (like vaccination) in the early stages of virus infection, then the immune system has a better chance to win the fight with the virus.

In this paper it will be considered three deterministic models for the study of the interaction between the human immune system and a virus: the logistic model, the Gompertz model, and the generalized logistic model (or Richards model). A qualitative analysis of this models based on dynamical systems theory will be performed, by studying the local behavior of the equilibria and obtaining local dynamics properties from the linear stability point of view. Also, we will compare this models in order to understanding which is more appropriate to models the interaction between the human immune system and a virus. It will be obtained some natural medical interpretations which are available for all three models and can be useful to the medical community.

Hybrid organic/inorganic conducting and magnetic composites of core–shell type have been prepared by in-situ coating of nickel microparticles with polypyrrole. Three series of syntheses have been made. In the first, pyrrole was oxidized with ammonium peroxydisulfate in water in the presence of various amounts of nickel and the composites contained up to 83 wt% of this metal. The similar syntheses in 0.1 M sulfuric acid followed. Finally, the composites with polypyrrole nanotubes were prepared in water in the presence of structure-guiding methyl orange dye. FTIR and Raman spectroscopies confirmed the formation of polypyrrole. The resistivity of composite powders of the order of tens to hundreds Ω cm was monitored as a function of pressure up to 10 MPa. The resistivity of composites slightly increased with increasing content of conducting nickel. This apparent paradox is explained by the coating of nickel particles, which prevents their contacts and generation of metallic conducting pathways. Electrical properties were practically independent of the way of composite preparation or nickel fraction and were controlled by polypyrrole phase. On the contrary, magnetic properties were determined exclusively by nickel content. The composites were used as a solid phase to prepare a magnetorheological fluid. The test showed better performance when compared with a different nickel system.

In this work, we consider two SIR patterns with demography: the classical pattern and a modified pattern with a linear transmission coefficient of the infection. By reformulating of each first order differential systems as a system with two second-order differential equations, we investigate the nonlinear dynamics of the system from the Jacobi stability point of view by using the KCC geometric theory. We will study the intrinsic geometric properties of the systems by determining the geometric associated objects: the zero-connection curvature tensor, the nonlinear connection, the Berwald connection, and the five KCC invariants: the first invariant - the external force εi, the second invariant - the deviation curvature tensor Pji, the third invariant - the torsion tensor Pjki, the fourth invariant - the Riemann-Christoffel curvature tensor Pjkli, and the fifth invariant - the Douglas tensor Djkli. In order to obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for the Jacobi stability near the equilibrium points, the deviation curvature tensor will be determined at each equilibrium points. Furthermore, we will compare the Jacobi stability with the classical linear stability, inclusive by diagrams related to the values of parameters of the system.

In this paper, we will consider an autonomous two-dimensional ODE Kolmogorov type 1 system with three parameters, which is a particular system of the general predator–prey systems with 2 a Holling type II. By reformulating this system as a set of two second order differential equations, we 3 will investigate the nonlinear dynamics of the system from the Jacobi stability point of view, using 4 the Kosambi-Cartan-Chern (KCC) geometric theory. We will determine the nonlinear connection, the 5 Berwald connection and the five KCC-invariants which express the intrinsic geometric properties 6 of the system, including the deviation curvature tensor. Furthermore, we will obtain necessary and 7 sufficient conditions on the parameters of the system in order to have the Jacobi stability near the 8 equilibrium points and we will point out these on a few examples.

In this paper, we draw on recent experiences from the Young Lives study to discuss some of the ethical and practical challenges facing longitudinal cohort studies in low- and middle-income countries in the time of coronavirus. We argue that COVID-19 has instigated an ‘ethics of disruption’ for social researchers across the world, and for longitudinal cohort studies like Young Lives, this requires navigating three core considerations: first, managing research relationships and reciprocity within an observational study design; second, maintaining methodological continuity and consistency across time; and third, balancing an immediate short-term response to COVID-19 against the longer-term perspective. We refer to the study’s plan to implement a new COVID-19 phone survey to illustrate how the team are navigating this altered ethical terrain.

The target area of the present study is the entrance to the Sulina channel in the Black Sea, the zero-kilometer of the Danube River. This represents the southern gate of the seventh Pan-European transport corridor and is subjected to high navigation traffic. The coastal environment at the Danube’s mouth is very often subjected to strong environmental conditions inducing high risks for navigation hazards. From this perspective, the objective of the present work is to provide a more comprehensive picture concerning the past and future expected dynamics of the environmental matrix in this area, including especially wind and wave conditions. An analysis of some in situ measurements performed at the zero kilometer of the Danube is first carried out for the 15 years 2009-2023. A second analysis is based on data provided by regional climate wind models. Two 30-year periods are considered, the recent past (1976-2005), when also comparisons with ERA5 reanalysis data were performed, and the near future (2041-2070), when two different models and three climate scenarios were considered. Finally, using as a forcing factor each of the wind fields before analyzed, simulations with a spectral wave model were carried out and the nearshore wave conditions were evaluated. The results show that both extreme wind and wave conditions are expected to be slightly enhanced in the future. Strong wind fields are characteristic in this area, with wind gusts exceeding on average with more than 70% the maximum hourly averaged wind speed. As regards the waves, due to the complex nearshore phenomena, considerable enhancements in terms of significant wave heights are induced. Furthermore, there is also a high risk of rogue wave’s occurrence.

Floating wind is becoming an essential part in terms of renewable energy. Therefore, highlighting the perspectives in developing the floating wind platforms is very important. In this paper, we focus on floating wind concepts and projects around the world. This will give a taste to the reader about what is going on in terms of the projects around the world. The main aim of this work is to further explain the collected data regarding the floating wind concepts and projects, and further classify them in terms of cost, power capacity, wind speed, water depth, and distance to shore.

High temperatures (HT) and high hydrostatic pressures (HHP) are characteristic of deep-sea hydrothermal vents and other deep crustal settings. These environments host vast and diverse microbial populations, yet only a small fraction of those populations have been successfully cultured. This is due, in part, to the difficulty of sampling while maintaining these in situ conditions and also replicating those high-temperature and high-pressure conditions in the laboratory. In an effort to facilitate more HT-HHP cultivation, we present two HT-HHP batch culture incubation systems for cultivating deep-sea vent and subsurface (hyper)thermophilic microorganisms. One HT-HHP system can be used for batch cultivation up to 110 MPa and 121°C, and requires sample decompression during subsampling. The second HT-HHP system can be used to culture microorganisms up to 100 MPa and 160°C with variable-volume, pressure-retaining vessels that negate whole-sample decompression during subsampling. Here, we describe how to build cost effective heating systems for these two types of high-pressure vessels, as well as the protocols for HT-HHP microbial batch cultivation in both systems. Additionally, we demonstrate HHP transfer between the variable-volume vessels, which has utility in sampling and enrichment without decompression, laboratory isolation experiments, as well as HHP filtration.

The Roma population constitutes the largest ethnic minority in Europe, however, data regarding the prevalence of non- communicable diseases are still scarce in the medical literature. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and metabolic particularities of a Roma population with diabetes, in comparison with a group of Romanian Caucasians. We conducted an observational, transversal study and evaluated 808 adult patients with diabetes mellitus, from a tertiary hospital providing diabetes care, aged between 18 and 89 years old, of whom the majority were men (52.84%). Most of them had type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), reaching 95.1% the Caucasian group and 87.8% among the Roma patients. 81.1% of the Caucasian patients had hypertension, approximately 15% higher than the Roma group, while more than half of the patients in both groups had obesity. There were no differences concerning myocardial infarction, however, the number of patients with history of stroke was 2.1 times higher in the Roma group compared to Caucasians. Chronic kidney disease was present in 22.1% of the Roma patients, 33.25% had retinopathy, and 72.7% presented polyneuropathy. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular disease and microvascular complications among the study Roma population are quite significant, underscoring the importance of ethnic disparities in approaching healthcare management strategies.

The purpose of the study is to show the effect of the intake of vitamin C obtained from a diet rich in fruit and vegetables or vitamin C supplements on the level of vitamin C in the plasma. The level of vitamin C in plasma were determined before the study (T1), and after five months (T2). Moreover, a medical record was carried out and a questionnaire on the habits such as general eating and specific consumption of food rich in vitamin C. Both of them were completed before and after five months. In addition, related anthropometric analyses were carried out. The results of the first determination of vitamin C level in plasma were between 1.0 and 16.0 mg/L and the results of the second determination of vitamin C in plasma were between 4.9 and 14.1 mg/L. Furthermore, it was identified that 50% of the questioned people had a low fruit intake. Raw vegetables were consumed by fewer people, the intake being higher during the main meals. The correlation of plasma vitamin C with the eating habits of the subjects to the study points out an interdependence between the consumption of fruit and vegetables and the level of vitamin C in the plasma.

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) strongly linked to a nearly five-fold higher risk of cardiovascular mortality. Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are a significant cohort in which these assessments have particular relevance to the increased cardiovascular risk inherent in the condition. This study aimed to explore the subtle correlation between the Ewing test, Sudoscan-cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy score, and cardiovascular risk calculated using SCORE 2 Diabetes in individuals with T2DM. The cohort consisted of 211 patients diagnosed with T2DM with overweight or obesity without established ASCVD, aged between 40 to 69 years. The prevalence of CAN in our group was 67.2%. In the study group, according SCORE2-Diabetes, four patients (1.9%) were classified with moderate cardiovascular risk, thirty-five (16.6%) with high risk, and one hundred seventy-two (81.5%) with very high cardiovascular risk. On multiple linear regression, the SCORE2-Diabetes algorithm remained significantly associated with Sudoscan CAN-score and Sudoscan Nephro-score and Ewing test score. Testing for the diagnosis of CAN in very high-risk patients should be performed because approximately 70% of them associate CAN. Increased cardiovascular risk is associated with sudomotor damage and that Sudoscan is an effective and non-invasive measure of identifying such risk.

Some optimal control problems need metaheuristics in searching for the optimal solution, especially when the process has certain characteristics like the Photobioreactor for Algae Growth (distributed parameter, nonlinearities, etc.). Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithms within control structures are a realistic approach; their task is often to predict the optimal control values working with a process model (PM). Owing to numerous numerical integrations, there is a big computational effort that is reflected in a large controller execution time. The authors propose to replace the PSO predictor with a machine learning model that has “learned” the quasi-optimal behavior of the couple (PSO, PM); the training data is obtained through closed-loop simulations over the control horizon. The new controller should preserve the process’s quasi-optimal control. In identical conditions, the process evolutions must also be quasi-optimal. The multiple Linear Regression and the Regression Neural Networks were considered as predicting models. The paper first proposes algorithms for collecting and aggregating data sets for the learning process. Algorithms for constructing the machine learning models, implementing the controllers, and closed-loop simulations are also proposed. The simulations prove that the two machine learning predictors have learned the PSO predictor’s behavior such that the process evolves almost identically. The resulting controllers’ execution time drastically decreased while keeping their optimality.

Primary failure of eruption (PFE) is a rare non-syndromic condition involving total or partial non-eruption of posterior teeth, in the absence of mechanical obstruction. This paper presents the case of a healthy girl referred at age 4 years for asymmetry of upper arch. Clinical examination confirmed a slight shift of the upper midline to the left, with no erupted teeth distal to the upper left canine and left posterior open bite. Panoramic X-ray showed delayed intra-osseous development of lateral left upper teeth compared to the right side. Clinic and radiographic follow-up during the next 9 years showed that 26 has not erupted by almost 13 years of age, 27 has delayed development and an unusual shape and there is agenesis of 24, 25. Genetic analysis using the PTH1R single gene sequencing did not detect any known disease-causing or rare pathogenic variants that could explain the patient's phenotype. Even when detected early, PFE rises difficult problems with regard to diagnosis and ortho-surgical treatment planning due to the impossibility to accurately predict the evolution. Tooth agenesis on the same arch worsens the prognosis and adds challenges to planning the treatment. Close long-term follow-up and timely adjustment of treatment plan in accordance to the evolution of the case are needed.

This study sought to spatially characterise and explain the differences of peoples’ perceptions on the impact of COVID-19 based on the socio-economic disparities in Gauteng, using choropleth mapping and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR). Results indicate that respondents from relatively vulnerable municipalities like Merafong, Mogale City and Lesedi reported life being worse, information scant, and overall despondency being high since COVID-19. These are areas that fall under the High to Very High categories in terms of the Socio-economic Risk Index. GWR results, however, did not show a high explanatory power on the COVID-19 variables se-lected for the research, based on R2 values. For instance, the residual in overall satisfaction with life after COVID-19 was the lowest (-0.5 to 0.5) in the less affluent districts of the Rand West City and Sedibeng. Residual variables on life changes after COVID-19 were also the lowest in the southern parts of the same districts, with other low values almost evenly distributed throughout the province for the variable ‘Government information on COVID-19 was scant’. Although overestimation and underestimation existed, most were relatively low falling between -1.5 to -0.5 and distributed evenly across the province. In sum, however, the findings point to the complexity of socio-economic factors in spatially characterising social risk and vulnerability. Additionally, the negative sentiments expressed by people from the more vulnerable locations in the province emphasise the need for more targeted interventions by government to cushion the residents of the province to the continued negative impacts of COVID-19.

Wearable exoskeleton solutions for upper limb rehabilitation or assistance, particularly for the hand area, have become increasingly attractive to researchers, proving to be effective over time in treating hand movement impairments following various neurological diseases. In the present work, the development of a wearable exoskeleton-type device for active hand rehabilitation has been addressed, based on fluid actuators made of elastomeric material and on myoelectric control by capturing myoelectric signals from the forearm area. The flexion movement of the fingers (phalanges) is actively assisted by pneumatic actuation of the built-in actuators and the extension movement is assisted by a depressurization control of the actuator. The device has been designed to be as easy to use as possible, light in weight, and to provide a high degree of comfort when used by the patient for rehabilitation training or daily life activities (ADL), which can be performed in the comfort of one's own home.

Precision agriculture including camera-guided row detection and hydraulic steering are often used as an alternative because crop damage can be decreased and driving speed can be increased comparable to herbicide applications.The effects of different approaches as uncontrolled (UC), mechanical weed control (MWC), herbicide weed control (HWC) and mechanical + herbicide control (MWC+HWC) on weed density and yield of sugar beet were tested and evaluated in two trials (2021 and 2022) in South Transylvania at the tested intervals BBCH 19 and 31. Weed control efficacy (WCE) depends on the emergence of the weeds and a good timing of weed controls in all the trials and methods, though the highest yield of sugar beet roots was recorded in the treatment MWC+HWC, with an increase up to 12-15% (56.48 t ha-1) yield from HWC (50.22 t ha-1) and a yield increase of more than 35- 40% than MWC (42.34 t ha-1). Our trials show that is possible to increase yield and have less chemical applications with the introduction of the new precision technologies in agriculture included here the sensor-guided mechanical controls.

Sustainability has been playing a major role on the world stage. As with everything in the be-ginning, it was aligned to purely environmental contexts, but with the passing of the years and the new way of producing, marketing, and consuming, this concept has encompassed other as-pects which are the way of producing products and services. In this article, to obtain information on the implementation of sustainable innovation, a search equation was formulated in the SCOPUS database, contemplating the period from 2018 to 2023 as a time interval, with a total of 62 articles. Once the search of the published articles was carried out, 7 categories were formed to classify the research topic of each of the publications with Bibliometrix software, according to the main ob-jective and methodology used in each one. In this sense, 44% of the articles published are related to open innovation, and 26% of the articles are focused on sustainable business models. At the end of the analysis of the implementation of innovation according to the articles consulted, it was possible to establish that sustainable innovation began an important work, in the mitigation of the adverse impacts.

The subject of this paper is to analyse the Math Principia of Economic 3D Black Holes in Roegenian economics. This idea is totally new in the related literature, excepting our papers. In details, we study two special problems: (i) math origin of economic 3D black holes, (ii) entropy and internal political stability depending on national income and the total investment, for economic RN 3D black hole. To solve these problems, it was necessary to jump from macroeconomic side to microeconomic side (a substantial approach so different), to complete the thermodynamics-economics dictionary with new entities, to introduce the flow between two macroeconomic systems, to study the Schwarzschild type metric properties on an economic 4D system, together with Rindler coordinates, Einstein 4D PDEs, and economic RN 3D black hole. In addition, we introduce some economic Ricci type flows or waves, for further research.

Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) interconverts glutamate to a-ketoglutarate and ammonia, interconnecting amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism. In humans, two functional GDH genes, GLUD1 and GLUD2, encode for hGDH1 and hGDH2, respectively. GLUD2 evolved from retro-transponsition of the GLUD1 gene in the common ancestor of modern apes. These two isoenzymes are involved in the pathophysiology of neoplastic, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders. The 3D structures of hGDH1 and hGDH2 have been experimentally determined; however, no information is available about the path of GDH2 structure changes during primate evolution. Here, we compare the structures predicted by the AlphaFold Colab method for the GDH2 enzyme of modern apes and their extinct primate ancestors. Also, we analyze the individual effect of amino acid substitutions emerging during primate evolution. Our most important finding is that the predicted structure of GDH2 in the common ancestor of apes was the steppingstone for the structural evolution of primate GDH2s. Two changes with a strong functional impact occurring at the first evolutionary step, Arg443Ser and Gly456Ala, had a destabilizing and stabilizing effect, respectively, making this step the most important one. Subsequently, GDH2 underwent additional modifications that fine-tuned its enzymatic properties to adapt to the functional needs of modern-day primate tissues.

The purpose of this paper is to study the sliding mode control as a Ricci flow process in the context of a three-story building structure subjected to seismic waves. The stability conditions result from two Lyapunov- functions, the first associated with slipping in a finite period of time, and the second with convergence of trajectories to the desired state. Simulation results show that the Ricci flow control leads to the minimization of the displacements of the floors. 3D Ricci solitons projection via a semi-conformal mapping to a surface is also studied.

Salt marshes are globally important ecosystems, but many have been lost or transformed due to the impacts of global change. There have been attempts to broadly quantify salt marsh communities, especially the ubiquitous grasses which serve as foundation species such as Spartina alterniflora and Spartina patens, the latter of which is being lost due to sea level rise. However, few researchers have used high-resolution geospatial imagery to quantify fine-scale changes in the distribution of grasses or to track losses of S. patens. To address this issue, we utilized a simple and rapid method of classifying geospatial marsh imagery with cloud-based machine learning in Google Earth Engine (>92% accuracy for S. patens regardless of imagery age). Our methods allowed us to characterize full landscapes (two geospatially proximal areas, >7,000 ha each) of critical salt marshes on the New Jersey coast and to evaluate fine-scale (1-m) community transformations in response to global change with imagery from 2006 to 2019. Notably, one marsh experienced very little change while the other experienced an 81.17% (1,087 ha) loss of S. patens, illuminating disparate patterns of change for two geographically proximal ecosystems. Further exploration revealed an association in the loss of S. patens with increases in streamflow and total nitrogen content in the rivers that run through each marsh. These results signify the importance of broad-scale ecological studies that evaluate fine-scale community transformations and for management strategies that do not generalize across landscapes of an ecosystem-type.

In the last decades droughts, deforestation and wildfires have become recurring phenomena that have affected both human activities and natural ecosystems in Amazonia. The time an ecosystem requires to recover from carbon losses is a crucial metric to evaluate disturbance impacts on forests. However, the factors influencing and controlling the recovery time and its spatiotemporal patterns at the regional scale are still poorly understood. In this study, we combined forest growth model, remote sensing and field plots, to map Amazonia-wide (300-ha resolution) impact and recovery time of aboveground biomass (AGB) after drought, fire and a combination of logging and fire. Our simulated results indicate that AGB decreases by 4%, 19% and 46% in forests disturbed by drought, fire and logging + fire, respectively, with an average AGB recovery time of 27 years for drought, 44 years for burned and 63 years for logged + burned areas and with maximum values reaching 184 years in areas of high fire intensity. Our findings provide two major insights in the spatial and temporal patterns of drought and wildfire in the Amazon: 1) the recovery time of the forests takes longer in the southeastern part of the basin, and, 2) as droughts and wildfires become more frequent – since the intervals between the disturbances is getting shorter than forest regeneration – potentially causing a long-lasting damage in these fragile ecosystems and a permanent degradation.

This study investigates the complex interplay between public sentiment, as captured through news titles and descriptions, and the stock prices of three major tech companies: Microsoft (MSFT), Tesla (TSLA), and Apple (AAPL). Leveraging advanced analytical methods including Pearson correlation, wavelet coherence, and regression analysis, this research probes the degree to which stock price fluctuations can be attributed to the polarity of media sentiment. The methodology combines statistical techniques to assess sentiment's predictive power on stock opening and closing prices, while wavelet coherence analysis unveils the temporal dynamics of these relationships. Results demonstrate a significant correlation between sentiment polarity and stock prices, with description polarity affecting Microsoft's opening prices, title polarity influencing Tesla's opening prices, and a positive impact of title polarity on Apple's closing prices. However, Tesla's stock showed no significant coherence, indicating a potential divergence in how sentiment affects stock behavior across companies. The study highlights the importance of sentiment analysis in forecasting stock market trends, revealing not only direct correlations but also lagged influences on stock prices. Despite its focus on large-cap tech firms, this research provides a foundational understanding of sentiment's financial implications, suggesting further investigation into smaller firms and other market sectors.

Fatal hemoptysis secondary to severe pulmonary veins stenosis is an exceptional late complication of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. We report the case of a 53-year-old male with a history of atrial fibrillation treated by radiofrequency ablation and admitted in our center 6 months after the initial procedure because of aggravating dyspnea and fatigability. Transthoracic echocardiography showed moderate dilation of right heart cavities, severe pulmonary hypertension, and a turbulent flow in superior pulmonary veins. The cardiologist suspected pulmonary vein(s) stenosis and cardiac computed tomography (CT) angiography was performed with findings of severe stenosis of the right superior, right inferior and left inferior pulmonary veins, near-occlusion of the left superior pulmonary vein and the vein draining the apical segment of the right lower lobe. The CT scan also revealed soft tissue attenuation of the mediastinum posterior to the left atrium suggesting fibrosing mediastinitis together with parenchymal findings consistent with pulmonary venooclusive disease and an area of hemorrhagic infarction. Fatal hemoptysis occurred 3 days after the evaluation before any treatment was attempted. In conclusion, severe pulmonary stenosis remains a rare but severe complication of radiofrequency ablation. Prevention is the key element together with an early diagnosis as the entity is potentially life-threatening.

: Background and objectives: One of the most severe symptoms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TBEP) is tuberculous meningitis (TBM) which is linked to significant morbidity and high mortality. It is well recognized that HIV-positive people are more likely to develop TBEP, including TBM, especially if they have severe immunodeficiencies. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective clinical study based on hospital medical records of the diagnosed patients with HIV/AIDS and Tuberculous Meningitis in North-eastern Romania, hospitalized at "Sf. Parascheva" Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases from Iasi. We aim to highlight the profile and the caracteristics of the HIV/AIDS and Tuberculous Meningitis coinfection cases. The time frame under study was from January 1st, 2010, to December 1st, 2022. Results: Our Center has a total number of patients on record of 1692. Patients co-infected with HIV- TB were 195 of which 19 cases were HIV- TBM coinfection and it was more common in women. From this total, 6 cases were late presenters and 13 patients were already in the center's records with a deficient immunological viral status, non-compliant, and non-adherent to antiretroviral therapy. The average age in the study group was 27 years old. The mean admission day number was 17.73 days. CSF findings (qualitative and quantitaitve examination, biochemestry) were in accordance with the literature. Conclusions: The key to the management of the HIV-positive patient is the multidisciplinary approach and access to antiretroviral therapy. We must find and eliminate obstacles affecting patients and the healthcare system. In order to increase ART uptake among HIV-infected TB patients and to put an end to the TB and HIV epidemics.

The employment of clays in industry and on laboratory scale is still of interest, despite their long history. The chemical-physical characteristics of such material are strongly related to their geographical origin and the availability of proper characterization techniques is of great importance in order to gain as more information about their behavior when utilized as filling materials. In the present contribute a physical characterization by meaning of Thermogravimetry and N₂ physisorption, including a thermal stability evaluation, of samples of Sardinian bentonite collected from the Alghero area (Italy) is reported.

Damage detection based on modal parameter changes becomes popular in the last decades. Nowadays are available robust and reliable mathematical relations to predict the natural frequency changes if damage parameters are known. Using these relations, it is possible to create databases containing a large variety of damage scenarios. Damage can be thus assessed by applying an inverse method. The problem is the complexity of the database, especially for structures with more cracks. In this paper, we propose two machine learning methods, namely the random forest (RF) and the artificial neural network (ANN) as search tools. The databases we developed contain damage scenarios for a prismatic cantilever beam with one crack and ideal and non-ideal boundary conditions. The crack assessment is made in two steps. First, a coarse damage location is found from the networks trained for scenarios comprising the whole beam. Afterward, the assessment is made involving a particular network trained for the segment of the beam on which the crack is previously found. Using the two machine learning methods, we succeed to estimate the crack location and severity with high accuracy for both simulation and laboratory experiments. Regarding the location of the crack, which is the main goal of the practitioners, the errors are less than 0.6%. Based on these achievements, we concluded that the damage assessment we propose, in conjunction with the machine learning methods, is robust and reliable.

Background/Objectives: Patient positioning during surgery can influence intra- and postoperative complications. Therefore, we assessed the impact of the sitting and park-bench positions on anesthetic parameters and complications in neurosurgical patients. Methods & Patients: For this retrospective study, 314 adults who underwent neurosurgical procedures for posterior fossa pathologies were divided into two groups: sitting (n=231) and park bench (n=83). The following data were collected, monitored, recorded and compared: age, sex, tumor type, surgical approach, cardiovascular and respiratory complications, and postoperative surgical complications. The association of hypotension with position was further investigated through multivariate logistic regression models by adjusting for CO2 decrease, desaturation and documented gas embolism. Results: The average age was significantly lower in the sitting group (55 years, interquartile range (IQR)=43-63; female proportion=59.74%) than in the park-bench group (62 years, IQR=45-74; female proportion=57.83%) (p<0.001). Cerebellopontine angle tumors were detected in 37.23% of the patients who underwent operation in the sitting position and in 7.26% who underwent operation on in the park-bench position (p<0.001). Patients in the sitting position had significantly greater anesthetic complication (91.77% vs. 71.08%, p<0.001), hypotension (61.9% vs. 16.87%),and >2-mmHg CO2 decrease (35.06% vs. 15.66%, p<0.001) incidences. Hypoxemia and death occurred more frequently in the park-bench group (8.43% vs. 1.73% and 6.03% vs. 1.3%, respectively). Conclusions: Compared with the park-bench position, the sitting position was associated with a greater specific anesthetic complication incidence and lower postoperative mortality rate, indicating a need for careful risk‒benefit assessment when selecting each individual patient’s surgical position.

Evaluating the integrity of structures is an important issue in engineering applications. The use of vibration-based techniques has become a common approach to assessing cracks, which are the most often occurring damage in structural elements. When involving an inverse method, it is necessary to know the influence of the position and the geometry of the crack on the modal parameter changes. The geometry of the crack, both in size and shape, defines the damage severity (DS). In this study, we present a method (DS-SHC) used for estimating the DS for closed and open transverse cracks in beam-like structures by using the intact and damaged beam deflections under its weight and a Stochastic Hill Climbing (SHC) algorithm. After describing the procedure of applying DS-SHC, we calculate for a prismatic cantilever beam the severities for different crack types and depths. The results are tested by comparing the DS obtained with DS-SHC with those acquired from dynamic tests made using professional simulation software. We obtained a good fit between the severities determined in these two ways. Afterward, we performed laboratory experiments and find out that the severities obtained with the DS-SHC method can accurately predict the frequency changes due to the crack. Hence, these severities are a valuable tool for damage detection.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Numerous pathophysiological mechanisms, such as abnormal cell proliferation, cell differentiation, resistance to apoptosis, invasion of structures adjacent to colorectal tumor cells, and distant metastasis, are involved in colorectal carcinogenesis. These processes are initiated by the complex interaction of a number of genetic and environmental factors, including sedentary lifestyle, obesity, alcohol consumption, smoking or gut microbiota. Despite the significant progress achieved in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of patients with colorectal cancer, there has been recently a noteworthy increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer in individuals below the age of 50 years. Early-onset colorectal cancer has a different frequency of oncogenic mutations, a higher prevalence of mucinous histology, a distinct deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation profile, a more distal location, and lower survival rates. A significant improvement in the prognosis of these patients can be achieved through the detection and removal of modifiable risk factors, along with the implementation of personalized screening strategies for individuals at high risk for this malignancy. Furthermore, gaining comprehension of the pathophysiological mechanisms by which these risk factors contribute to the process of oncogenesis may facilitate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.

The effect of Alzheimer's disease (AD) medications on CD4+ T cells homing has not been thoroughly investigated. Alzheimer's disturbs the life of at least five million persons in the USA. CD4+ T cells could both exacerbate and reduce AD symptoms. Regulating CD4+ T cells homing to the leaky blood-brain barrier (BBB) constitutes a new hope for enhancing AD prognosis. Alzheimer's drugs such as Donepezil (Aricept), Rivastigmine (Exelon), Galantamine (Razadyne) and memantine are known to play an important part in regulating the neurotransmitters mechanisms. However, little is known about the effect of these drugs on CD4+ T cells homing. In this review, we focus on current and new drugs that could modulate CD4+ T cells interactions with the BBB in AD.

Background: Despite recent advancements, medical technology has not yet reached its peak. Precision medicine is growing rapidly, thanks to machine learning breakthroughs powered by increased computational capabilities. This article explores a deep-learning application for computer-aided diagnosis in dermatology. Methods: Using a custom model based on EfficientNetB3 and deep learning, we propose an approach for skin lesion classification that offers superior results with smaller, cheaper, and faster inference times compared to other models. The skin images dataset used for this research includes 8,222 files selected from the authors' collection and the ISIC2019 archive, covering six dermatological conditions. Results: The model achieved 95.4% validation accuracy on four categories—melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, benign keratosis-like lesions, and melanocytic nevi—using an average of 1,600 images per category. Adding two categories with fewer images (about 700 each)—squamous cell carcinoma and actinic keratoses—reduced the validation accuracy to 88.8%. The model maintained accuracy on new clinical test images taken under the same conditions as the training dataset. Conclusions: The custom model demonstrated excellent performance on the diverse skin lesions dataset, with significant potential for further enhancements.

The general desire of the world's population is to eat as healthily as possible, an aspect that has a direct impact on the technological complex aimed at animals raising (proper breeding systems, microclimate factors with implications for the welfare of animals, etc.), as well as on the quality of the finished products that will enter the food supply. Therefore, the authors set out to study how the growth system influences the health status of rainbow trout raised in different systems. The observed experimental factors did not undergo significant changes. However, differences were generated by the applied growth system. For the amount of glucose in the blood, no statistically significant differences were identified between the groups. In contrast, comparison of the amount of glycogen led to obtaining very distinctly significant statistical fluctuations (the mean for P-si was 2.314±0.638 and for P-i 1.980±0.822). Growth hormone varied between 0.504±0.46 in the case of P-si and 0.694±0.22 ng/ml for P-i. The values obtained for cortisol showed a significant influence of stress factors on the studied trout. The general conclusion of the present study is that various technological factors influence the health status of livestock.

This research investigates entrepreneurial attitudes among 415 students in the academic sports domain. Utilizing a 15-item questionnaire, participants were categorized into four groups based on their sports background: individual and team sports with competitive history, amateur athletes, and non-practitioners. The questionnaire exhibited good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient = 0.755). Statistical analysis using the Chi-Square Test of Homogeneity across criteria such as gender, competitive sports involvement, type of competitive sports, and engagement in amateur sports revealed significant differences in nine out of 60 comparisons. Furthermore, this study employs an explanatory approach to elucidate the distinctions among athletes, amateur, and non-athlete students in academic sports programs regarding assumption of responsibilities, proactive initiative, determination to establish their own businesses, perception of the comfort zone, and the perception of post-sports career adaptation. Additionally, a gender comparison is conducted concerning the perception of business risk, comfort and security in a stable workplace, and the applicability of sports-oriented approaches in business. These results provide valuable insights into how sports backgrounds shape entrepreneurial perspectives, thereby contributing to the development of customized entrepreneurial programs. Moreover, the study seeks to offer a nuanced comprehension of the diverse factors influencing the entrepreneurial attitudes and perceptions of students in sports academic programs.

This article investigates robust optimality and duality for a class of nonsmooth multiobjective programming problems with vanishing constraints under data uncertainty (in short, UNMPVC) via convexificators. Using the properties of convexificators, we introduce generalized standard Abadie constraint qualification (in short, GS-ACQ) for the considered problem UNMPVC. Moreover, we introduce generalized robust version of nonsmooth stationary conditions, namely, weakly stationary point (in short, RW-Stationary), T-stationary point (in short, RT-Stationary), M-stationary point (in short, RM-Stationary) and S-stationary point (in short, RS-Stationary) for UNMPVC. By employing GS-ACQ, we establish that the RS-Stationary is the necessary first-order optimality condition for a local Pareto solution of UNMPVC. Moreover, under generalized convexity assumptions, we establish sufficient optimality criteria for UNMPVC. Furthermore, we formulate the Wolfe-type (in short, WRD) and Mond-Weir-type (in short, MWRD) robust dual models corresponding to the primal problem UNMPVC.

Breast cancer (BC) ranks among the most prevalent cancers diagnosed in women. Its treatment necessitates precision tailored to the cancer's genetic makeup for enhanced efficacy. Research has been directed towards natural compounds for their anti-BC properties, aiming to augment existing treatment modalities. Chromolaena tacotana (Klatt) R.M. King and H. Rob, commonly referred to as Ch. tacotana, is a notable source of bioactive hydroxy-methylated flavonoids. However, the specific anti-BC mechanisms of these flavonoids, particularly those present in the plant's inflorescences, remain partly undefined. This study focuses on assessing a chalcone derivative extracted from Ch. tacotana inflorescences for its potential to concurrently activate regulated autophagy and intrinsic apoptosis in Luminal A and triple-negative BC cells. We determined the chemical composition of the chalcone using ultraviolet (UV) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Its selective cytotoxicity against BC cell lines was assessed using the MTT assay. Flow cytometry and western blot analysis were employed to examine the modulation of proteins governing autophagy and the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Additionally, in silico simulations were conducted to predict interactions between the chalcone and various anti-apoptotic proteins, including the mTOR protein. The chalcone was identified as 2',4-dihydroxy-4',6'-dimethoxy-chalcone (DDC), also known as Flavokavain C (FKC). This compound demonstrated selective inhibition of BC cell proliferation and triggered autophagy and intrinsic apoptosis. It induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase and altered mitochondrial outer membrane potential (∆ψm). The study observed the activation of autophagic LC3-II and mitochondrial pro-apoptotic proteins in both BC cell lines. The regulation of Bcl-XL and Bcl-2 proteins varied according to BC subtype, yet they showed promising molecular interactions with DDC. Among the examined pro-survival proteins, mTOR and Mcl-1 exhibited the most favorable binding energies and were downregulated in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Further research is needed to fully understand the molecular dynamics involved in the activation and interaction of autophagy and apoptosis pathways in cancer cells in response to potential anticancer agents like the hydroxy-methylated flavonoids from Ch. tacotana.

Introduction: Carcinoid heart disease is a rare cause of right-sided valvular dysfunction, an important complication in patients with carcinoid syndrome. Objectives: We aim to present our own experience regarding early myocardial dysfunction in patients with carcinoid syndrome. Methods: 64 patients (35-90 year old, 62,5% female, 37,5% male patients) with carcinoid syndrome were evaluated be-tween October 2017 and June 2021. All patients underwent two-dimensional echocardiography with additional tissue Doppler and speckle-tracking techniques. For all patients there were measured urinary level of 5- hydroxyindolacetic acid, serotonin and NT-proBNP values. Results: The following echocardiographic features: global longitudinal strain of both ventricles, mean systolic velocity of the left ventricle, systolic velocity of the free wall of right ventricle, correlated with high values of specific biomarkers: serotonin, and urinary 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid, and also with the presence of hepatic metastases and poorly differentiated tumors. Discussion: In this study we identified several patients with early myocardial dysfunction due to carcinoid syndrome, representing a predictive model of poor prognosis, requiring further investigations. Conclusion: Echocardiographic assessment based on the measurement of systolic velocities, as well as the global longitudinal strain of both ventricles, together with specific biomarkers may contribute to better recognition of carcinoid heart disease in clinical practice, but this needs validation through further studies enrolling larger number of patients.

The recovery and recycling of metals that generate toxic ions in the environment is of particular importance, especially when these are tungsten and, in particular, thorium. The radioactive element thorium has unexpectedly accessible domestic applications (filaments of light bulbs and electronic tubes, welding electrodes, working alloys containing aluminum and magnesium), which lead to its appearance in electrical and electronic waste from municipal waste management platforms. The current paper proposes the simultaneous recovery of waste containing tungsten and thorium from welding electrodes. The simultaneous recovery is done by applying a hybrid membrane electrolysis technology coupled with nanofiltration. An electrolysis cell with sulphonated polyether–ether–ketone membranes (sPEEK) and a nanofiltration module with chitosan-polypropylene membranes (C–PHF–M) are used to carry out the hybrid process. The analysis of welding electrodes led to a composition of: W (tungsten) 89.4%; Th 7.1%; O2 2.5% and Al 1.1%. Thus, the parameters of the electrolysis process were chosen according to the speciation of the three metals suggested by the superimposed Pourbaix diagrams. At a constant potential of 20.0 V and an electrolysis current of 1.0 A, the pH is varied and the possible composition of the solution in the anodic workspace is analyzed. Favorable conditions for both electrolysis and nanofiltration were obtained at pH from 6 to 9, when the soluble tungstate ion, the aluminum hydroxide and solid thorium dioxide were formed. Through a first nanofiltration, the tungstate ion is obtained in the permeate, and thorium dioxide and aluminum hydroxide in the concentrate. By adding a pH 13 solution over the two precipitates, the aluminum is solubilized as sodium aluminate which will be found after the second nanofiltration in permeate, the thorium dioxide remaining integrally (within an error of ±0.1ppm) on the C–PHF–M membrane.

Type 1 Diabetes mellitus (T1DM) occurs when insulin is not produced in the Pancreas due to the autoimmune destruction of the beta cells. The patients may be diagnosed after 80-90% of the beta cells are destroyed. Insulin remains the essential medicine in T1DM management, under continuous monitoring of glucose levels. T1DM management consists of a complex and precise set of self-care measures for the entire life; during this continuous process, the patients could become overwhelmed, angry, anxious, frustrated, and/or discouraged. Therefore, to be widely used and provide general benefits, new technologies for DM management must provide clinical advantages without compromising safety. The compliance of T1DM patients is also essential, thus improving their quality of life (QoL). Moreover, the accessibility of the new system for patients through healthcare coverage is critical; they must be able to buy the new devices and accessories and pay for their maintenance. In this context, our work aims to describe the most recent technologies regarding continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) systems, correlated with psychosocial impact and capacity to improve T1DM patients' life quality.

We aim to map the ESG patterns of emerging-market companies from 2018 to 2021 in order to determine whether the COVID-19 pandemic exerted any influence on sustainable corporate behavior. Thus, the ESG performances were assessed by applying the Kohonen neural network for clustering purposes at three main levels: i) ESG overall, including country and sectoral perspectives; ii) ESG thematic; and iii) ESG four-folded (stakeholder, perspective, management level, and focus strategic views). Our results show that emerging-market companies focus their ESG efforts on social and governance issues rather than on environmental. However, environmental, and social behavior differ more acutely than governance behavior across clusters. The ESG pillars country-level and eleven market-based economic sectors analysis corroborate the geographic and sector dependence of ESG performance. The thematic-level analysis indicate that operational activities and community issues received more attention, which suggests that emerging-market companies address distinct ESG topics according to their particularities and competitiveness. Furthermore, our empirical findings provide evidence that the ESG behavior of companies has changed over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, our findings are relevant to policymakers involved in regulating ESG disclosure practices, investors focused on enhancing their sustainable investment strategies, and firms engaged in improving their ESG involvement.

Osteosarcoma is the most common subtype of primary bone cancers, affecting mostly adolescents. In recent years, several studies have focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of this sarcoma; however, its molecular etiology has still not been determined with precision. Therefore, we applied a consensus strategy with the use of several bioinformatics tools to prioritize genes involved in its pathogenesis. Subsequently, we assessed the physical interactions of the previously selected genes and applied a communality analysis to this protein-protein interaction network. The consensus strategy prioritized a total list of 553 genes. Our enrichment analysis validates several studies that describe the signaling pathways PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK as pathogenic. The gene ontology described TP53 as a principal signal transducer that chiefly mediates processes associated with cell cycle and DNA damage response It is interesting to note that the communality analysis clusters several members involved in metastasis events such as MMP2 and MMP9 and genes associated with DNA repair complexes, like ATM, ATR, CHEK1, and RAD51. In this study, we could identify well-known pathogenic genes for osteosarcoma and prioritized genes that need to be further explored.

This article aims to analyze the relationship between non-obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCAD) and atrial fibrillation (AF), exploring the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and implications for clinical management. NOCAD and AF are prevalent cardiovascular conditions that often coexist, yet their interrelation is not well understood. NOCAD, characterized by the presence of atherosclerotic plaques without significant luminal stenosis, can lead to ischemic necrosis of cardiomyocytes and their replacement with fibrous tissue, in this way sustaining the focal ectopic activity in atrial myocardium. Atrial fibrillation, on the other hand, is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, associated with an increased risk of stroke and heart failure, which may accelerate atherosclerosis and may increase oxygen consumption in the myocardium, creating a mismatch between supply and demand, thus promoting the development or worsening of coronary ischemia. Therefore, NOCAD and AF seems to be a complex Interplay with one begets another.

Lynch syndrome (LS) is one of the most common hereditary cancer syndrome in human populations, associated with germline variants in MLH1, MSH2/EPCAM, MSH6 and PMS2 genes. The advent of next generation sequencing has proven a significant impact in germline variant detection in the causative genes; however, a large proportion of patients with clinical criteria still receive uncertain or negative results. PMS2 is the least frequent reported gene, associated with up to 15% of LS cases with late-onset disease and low penetrance phenotype; however, the proportion of PMS2-LS cases is considered to be highly underestimated. In this context, we consulted public available databases (ClinVar, LOVD) for missense and intronic PMS2 variants and performed an in silico analysis of the genomic sequence. Splicing bioinformatics tools proven effective in other genes were used to assess both the wild-type DNA sequence and reported genetic variants. Splicing alterations were predicted in silico and using GTEx short-read RNA expression data. Out of the 2384 missense variants discovered, 90% were classified with uncertain significance (VUS). 4.9% of missense variants were shown to have a potential splicing consequence (DS &gt; 0.2) using SpliceAI. As described in the original publication, SpliceAI-visual was proven effective in annotation of short intronic variants (&lt; 50 bp). Four short intronic variants were identified using SpliceAI-visual as potentially splicing disturbing, in spite of using a lower threshold (DS &gt; 0.1). Moreover, we observed that Splicing Regulatory Elements (SREs) may play a fundamental role in alternative splicing in PMS2 gene, ESE motifs being overrepresented in highly expressed exons 5, 11 and 14. Computational analysis performed in our study serves as a valuable filtering step for guiding further RNA sequencing experiments. Additional functional data is necessary to evaluate the significance of our findings.

(1) Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) causes high mortality among patients with respiratory disease and imposes major burdens on healthcare infrastructure. Models that use electronic health record data to predict the onset of VAP may spur earlier treatment and improve patient outcomes. We developed and studied the performance of interpretable machine learning (ML) models that predict the onset of VAP from electronic health records (EHRs); (2) Methods: We trained Logistic Regression (LR), full feature Explainable Boosting Machine (fEBM), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) ML models on data from the MIMIC- III (v1.3) database. Model performance was measured by area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs). We trained a minimal-feature EBM model (mEBM) with features derived from white blood cell (WBC) counts, duration of ventilation, and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Finally, model robustness was evaluated on randomly sparsified EHR datasets; (3) Results: The fEBM model outperformed the XGBoost and LR models at 24 hours post-intubation. The mEBM model maintained an AUC of 0.893. The fEBM model performance remained robust on sparsified datasets; (4) Conclusions: Our novel interpretable ML algorithm reliably predicts the onset of VAP in intubated patients. Integration of this EBM-based model into clinical practice may enable clinicians to better anticipate and prevent VAP.

This study examines the effectiveness of a comprehensive psychomotor development program combined with adapted football training for adolescents diagnosed with intellectual disabilities in Romania. Twelve participants, with a mean age of 17.42 years underwent a carefully designed intervention program spanning 36 weeks. The program aimed to enhance fundamental movement skills, integrate these skills into specialized football training, and culminate in a Unified 7-a-side Football Match. Results indicate significant improvements in psychomotor skills, including static and dynamic balance, pulse processing speed, and identified stimuli. Moreover, the intervention positively impacted social interaction among participants. Statistical analysis, employing Pearson Correlation Analysis and Paired Samples t-Test (One-Sample), compared assessments. Results revealed significant differences between pre- and post-intervention measurements, providing robust evidence of the program's efficacy. The positive correlations between physical parameters and social interaction highlight the interconnectedness between physical fitness and social engagement. Our findings suggest that improvements in physical abilities may contribute to increased social interaction among children with intellectual disabilities, underscoring the holistic nature of our intervention, which addresses multiple dimensions of development simultaneously. The findings underscore the holistic benefits of integrating psychomotor development and adapted football programs for adolescents with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing the importance of promoting inclusive physical activities for their overall well-being.

Cardiotoxicity remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in childhood cancer survivors. This study aimed to evaluate cardiotoxic side effects of chemotherapeutic regimens in a pediatric population, as revealed by assessment of baseline end-of-treatment and in follow-up after 1 year. A prospective study was conducted on 39 children, enrolled over a period of 5 years (2017-2022), diagnosed with leukemia and receiving chemotherapy regimens. A multimodal echocardiographic evaluation was done (two-dimensional echocardiography and M-mode, tissue doppler imaging (TDI) and 2D-speckle tracking (2DST) before the initiation of the cytostatic treatment, at the end of the treatment and 1 year after the treatment. Ultrasound-derived parameter values were compared between evaluations and correlated with cumulative doses of chemotherapeutic agents used. There were no significant differences in mean values for any of the imagistic parameters analyzed. However, a significant correlation was found between E’value percentage variation and cumulative dose of both anthracyclines and antimetabolics administered (p=0.03). Moreover, a significant linear regression correlation was found between alkylating agent dose and global longitudinal strain (GLS)(p<0.01). Non-invasive cardiovascular imaging parameter values did not differ significantly from baseline in our study, but some of them seem to be dependent upon cumulative dose of cytostatic agents used. Further studies on larger populations and involving a longer follow-up period might provide more insight into cardiotoxicity of chemotherapy regimens.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired social communication and repetitive or stereotypic behaviours. In utero exposure to environmental chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), may play a role in the etiology of ASD. We examined the relation between plasma PCB concentrations measured during pregnancy and autistic behaviours in a subset of children aged 3–4 years old in the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) Study, a pregnancy and birth cohort of 546 mother-infant pairs from Canada (enrolled: 2008-2011). We quantified the concentrations of 6 PCB congeners that were detected in >40% of plasma samples collected during the 1st trimester. At age 3–4 years, caregivers completed the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 (SRS), a valid and reliable measure of children’s reciprocal social and repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. We examined SRS scores as both a continuous and binary outcome, and we calculated Bayesian predictive odds ratios for more autistic behaviours based on a latent variable model for SRS scores >60. We found no association between plasma PCB concentrations and autistic behavior, However, we found small and imprecise increases in the mean SRS score and odds of more autistic behaviour for the highest quartile of plasma PCB concentrations compared with the lowest quartile; for instance, an average increase of 1.1 [95%PCI: −0.5, 2.6] in the mean SRS (exposure contrast 4^th versus 1^st quartile) for PCB138 translated to an odds ratio of 1.6 [95%PCI: 1.0, 2.5]. Our findings illustrate the importance of measuring associations between PCBs and autistic behaviour on both continuous and binary scales.

The corrosion resistance of two cast CoCr based alloys, with different amounts of chromium and with different alloying elements in the bulk composition of the alloy, was assessed. Herewith, we investigated the corrosion behavior of Co21Cr8Mo7W and Co29Cr7W by open circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic polarization (PP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at 37°C for long time immersion. After 1000 hours of immersion, the corrosion current density (icor), estimated from anodic polarization tests, is lower for Co21Cr8Mo7W (i.e. 49 nA cm-2) alloy compared to Co29Cr7W alloy (180 nA cm-2). As regards the corrosion potential (Ecor), a nobler value was observed for Co21Cr8Mo7W (i.e. -59 mV vs. Ag/AgCl) compared to Co29Cr7W (i.e. -114 mV vs. Ag/AgCl). These findings suggest a better corrosion resistance of the film formed on the alloy containing lower amount of Cr and two alloying elements, namely Mo and W. These results are promising ones in terms of medical applications because they open new strategies in obtaining alloys with lower content of chromium and with higher protective properties against corrosion attack.

Metabolomics is an advanced technology, still under development, with multiple research applications, especially in the field of health. Individual metabolic profiles, the functionality of the body, as well as its interaction with the environment can be established using this technology. The body's response to various external factors, including the food consumed and the nutrients it contains, has increased researchers' interest in nutrimetabolomics. Establishing correlations between diet and the occurrence of various diseases or even the development of personalized nutrition plans, could contribute to advances in precision medicine. The interdependence between humans, animals and the environment are of particular importance today, with the dramatic emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases, food, water and soil contamination, and the degradation of resources and habitats. All these events have led to an increase of risk factors for functional diseases, burdening global health. Thus, this study aimed to highlight the importance of metabolomics, in particular of nutrimetabolomics, as a technical solution for a holistic, collaborative, and precise approach for the advancement of the One Health strategy.

The investigation of the correlation between Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and wage dynamics, particularly in the context of gender-related aspects, is of paramount importance in understanding the broader implications of economic globalization. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the intricate relationship between FDIs and wage trends, with a specific focus on the Dutch context. Using data from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the World Bank, the research applies statistical techniques, including regression analysis, to explore the relationship between FDIs and wage trends over time, with a focus on gender differences. The analysis reveals that while FDIs contribute to overall wage growth, their impact varies significantly between male and female employees in the Netherlands. This highlights the need for policies addressing these gender-based disparities, providing a unique gender-focused perspective on the influence of FDIs on wage trends and expanding the existing literature on economic globalization and wage dynamics.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has gained attention in the last few years due to its increasing prevalence worldwide becoming a global epidemic. This review aims to discuss the latest recommendations regarding diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD-associated HCC and the remaining challenges. Thus, there is a high amount of data derived from basic and clinical studies that revealed the molecular pathways which drive NAFLD-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Based on these findings, new prevention, surveillance and treatment strategies are emerging. However, current data on treatment modalities in NAFLD-associated HCC are still scarce, but based on subgroup analysis results from non-NAFLD HCC studies are promising and could provide a basis for future research agenda to address NAFLD/NASH patients. Conclusion: Due to the pandemic proportions that NAFLD gained in the last few years, there is a high amount of data derived from basic and clinical studies that revealed the molecular path-ways which drive NAFLD-associated HCC. Based on these findings, new prevention, surveillance and treatment strategies could be developed at an individual level.

Argulus is an ectoparasite that frequently infects goldfish, with severe effects and a high death rate. The use of plant extracts has been widely reported to have antiparasitic activities, including one of the solasodine compounds in sour eggplant extracts. This research evaluated the antiparasitic activities of Compositions A (Solanum ferox and Zingiber zerumbet extract at 400 and 200 ppm, respectively), B (SFE and Boesenbergia pandurata at 900 ppm), and C (single Solanum ferox at 400 ppm). The research stages comprised 1) isolation and analysis of solasodine content in sour eggplant extracts and its extract composition, 2) in vitro antiparasitic activities on Argulus sp. at doses of 50 and 100 ppm with a testing time of 60–240 minutes, and 3) in vivo antiparasitic activities on Argulus sp. on goldfish at a dose of 100 ppm and observation for 2–12 hours of medication. The results showed that sour eggplant extracts had a solasodine concentration of 7.151 mg/L, whereas the derivative compositions A, B, and C were 656, 485, and 295 ppm, respectively. The in vitro testing demonstrated that composition A was effective for killing approximately 80–100% of Argulus, whereas compositions B and C killed 80–90% and 60–70%, respectively. Viewed from the effectiveness for killing parasites, the result was excellent (above 50%). The in vivo medication test was continued using three extract compositions at a dose of 100 ppm. Compositions A, B, and C were found to be capable of releasing 81.33, 75.67, and 71.00 arguli, respectively, per fish. We concluded that the single SFE extract and a concoction with BPE and ZZE had reasonable antiparasitic activity, whereas the concoction of SFE and ZZE killed more Argulus parasites at a higher rate.

Tomato is considered the most important vegetable crop worldwide. Improving the nutritional value of fruits must be based on sustainable production in terms of varieties and fertilization management. This study aimed to improve the nutritional value (total soluble solids, acidity, lycopene, β-carotene, polyphenols, macro and microelements) of two tomato varieties (‘Cristal’ and ‘Siriana’) under three fertilization types (NPK chemical fertilizer, chicken manure and biological fertilizer with microorganisms) for the greenhouse. Primary metabolism compounds do not vary significantly according to the type of fertilizer used. The results for the antioxidant compounds showed a better effect of biological fertilization compared to chemical fertilizer and control unfertilized. The tomato fruits from the local cultivar (‘Siriana’) are richer in nutritional compounds such as rutin, regardless of the type of fertilization, which denotes a good ability to adapt to crop conditions. Tomato cultivars reacted positively to microbiological fertilization compare to chemical, thus producing nutritious fruits under sustainable management. Tomato fruits were richer in the quality of microelement contents.

Increasing rates of infection by antibiotic resistant bacteria have led to a resurgence of interest in bacteriophage (phage) therapy. Several phage therapy studies in animals and humans have been completed over the last two decades. We conducted a systematic review of safety and toxicity data associated with phage therapy in both animals and humans reported in English-language publications from 2008 – 2021. Overall, 69 publications met our eligibility criteria including 20 animal studies, 35 clinical case reports or case series, and 14 clinical trials. After summarizing safety and toxicity data from these publications, we discuss potential approaches to optimizing safety and toxicity monitoring with the therapeutic use of phage moving forward. In our systematic review of the literature, we found few, but no serious, adverse events associated with phage therapy. Comprehensive and standardized reporting of potential toxicities associated with phage therapy has generally been lacking in the published literature. Structured safety and tolerability endpoints are necessary when phages are administered as anti-infective therapeutics.

This paper presents a demonstration of the feasibility of fabricating micro-cantilever harvesters with extended stress distribution and enhanced bandwidth by exploiting an M-shaped two-degrees-of-freedom design. The measured mechanical response of the fabricated device displays the predicted dual resonance peak behavior with the fundamental peak at the intended frequency. This design has the features of high energy conversion efficiency in a miniaturized environment where the available vibrational energy varies in frequency. It makes such a design suitable for future large volume production of integrated self powered sensors nodes for the Internet-of-Things.

This study investigates the comparative performance of autoencoders and traditional machine learning (ML) algorithms in predicting tumor dynamics following Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for brain metastases (BMs). The research retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 77 patients (median age: 64 years; 45 males, 32 females) treated at the “Prof. Dr. NicolaeOblu” Emergency Clinic Hospital-Iasi. The dataset comprised 12 variables, including socio-demographic, clinical, treatment, and radiosurgery-related factors. The primary outcome was tumor progression or regression within three months post-GKRS, with 71 cases of regression and 6 cases of progression observed. Traditional ML models—Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Extra Trees, Random Forest, and XGBoost—were evaluated, achieving accuracy rates ranging from 0.91 (KNN) to 1.00 (Extra Trees). When incorporating features extracted by autoencoders, the performance of these models generally improved, especially with compression in the bottleneck layer. For instance, Logistic Regression's accuracy increased from 0.91 to 0.94, while SVM's accuracy improved significantly from 0.85 to 0.96. XGBoost consistently performed well across both traditional and hybrid setups, maintaining an accuracy of 0.94 with an AUC of 0.98. The findings suggest that hybrid approaches combining deep learning with traditional ML techniques can significantly enhance predictive accuracy and robustness, particularly in the context of GKRS for BMs. This improved performance has potential implications for more informed clinical decision-making in personalized medicine.

This paper delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the forklift industry, particularly focusing on logistics and procurement within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the field of industrial machinery. The study highlights the growing influence of AI in automating and improving the forklift industry. Using the environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) balanced scorecard (BSC), benchmarking, and activity-based management (ABM) models, the paper analyses the risks and the implications of AI integration in the industry in the actual turbulent context. The research highlights the significant shifts in logistics and procurement processes due to AI, projecting a future where forklift operations are deep automatized, leading to a possible loss of forklift operator jobs. A case study of the most relevant Romanian SME in the forklift industry is also presented, examining the company's financial strategies using McKinsey’s 7S framework. The paper concludes with a perspective that, in the future, machines will predominantly operate in roles currently held by humans, significantly altering the industry landscape.

Heart failure is a global major healthcare problem with millions of hospitalizations annually and with a very high mortality. There is an increased interest in finding new and reliable biomarkers for the diagnostication, prognostication and therapeutical guidance of patients hospitalized for acute heart failure. There is data to sustain the role of CA 125, a worldwide used marker of ovarian cancer, in patients with heart failure. Several studies have shown links between CA 125 levels and congestion seen in acute heart failure, high mortality and readmission rates at 6 months follow up after discharge from acute heart failure and also a role of CA 125 in the guidance of heart failure therapy. There are also clinical trials that showed that several particularities of CA 125 make it even better than NTpro BNP ( a classical and more utilised marker of heart failure) in several scenarios of acute heart failure.

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is regarded as a component of metabolic syndrome, which has insulin resistance (IR) as the primary physiopathological event. The aim of study was to establish the association between IR, assessed using triglyceride and glucose index (TyG), and histopathological features of NAFLD lesions. Methods: The study included patients with metabolic syndrome. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting lipid profiles and liver enzymes were measured. IR was assessed by TyG index. Liver biopsy was performed for assessment steatosis and fibrosis. Results: TyG index had a mean value of 8.93 ± 1.45, with a higher value in the patients with overweight (p=0.002) and obesity (p=0.004) than in the patients with normal weight. TyG index mean value of 8.78 ± 0.65 in subjects without NASH, 8.91 ± 0.57 in patients with borderline NASH and 9.13 ± 0.55 in patients with definite NASH. Significant difference was found between subjects without NASH and the ones with definite NASH (p=0.004). The analysis of the area under the ROC curve proved that TyG index is a predictor for NASH (p=0.043). Conclusion: TyG index is a facile tool used to identify individuals at risk for NAFLD, but not for the progression of liver lesions.

Prenatal diagnosis of clubfoot traditionally relied on two-dimensional ultrasonography. To enhance diagnosis and predict postnatal outcomes, we examined the parameters that differentiate pathological clubfoot using three-dimensional ultrasonography. In our retrospective study, we examined the findings of prenatal ultrasound and the postnatal outcomes of pregnancies with suspected congenital clubfoot between 2018 and 2021. Based on the three-dimensional perspective, we measured the angles of varus, equinus, calcaneopedal block and forefoot adduction and compared the sonographic variables between the postnatal treated and non-treated groups. We evaluated 31 pregnancies (47 feet) with suspected clubfoot using three-dimensional ultrasonography. After delivery, a total of 37 feet (78.7%) underwent treatment involving serial casting only or additional Achilles tenotomy. The treated group showed significantly greater hindfoot varus deviation (60.5° vs. 46.6°, p=0.026) and calcaneopedal block deviation (65.6° vs. 26.6°, p &lt;0.05) compared to the non-treated group. The calcaneopedal block had an area under the curve of 0.98 with a diagnostic threshold of 46.2 degrees (sensitivity of 97%, specificity of 90%, positive predictive value of 97%, and negative predictive value of 90%). During prenatal evaluation of clubfoot using three-dimensional ultrasonography, the calcaneopedal block deviation has the potential to predict postnatal treatment.

In this study, MBBR, utilizing kaldnes as a media to attach and grow microorganisms, was used to treat organics in a Compact Septage Treatment Plant (CSTP). Seeding and acclimatization processes were done initially to ensure the microorganisms were able to grow and adapt well within their environments. This research was done to determine the time required for those processes, the optimum conditions, and the growth mechanism of microorganisms during the acclimatization process. Both processes were run in a batch mode. Changes in colour and weight of kaldnes were analyzed for the seeding stage; while COD, MLVSS, pH &amp; temperature were observed for the acclimatization stage. Seeding and acclimatization were run for 6 and 16 days respectively. Acclimatization stage was halted when MLVSS, pH, temperature and COD reduction efficiency were stable. Three phases of microorganism growth were clearly observed in the end of the acclimatization stage, i.e., lag, constant increasing and declining rates. This indicated that microorganisms could adapt well with the MBBR system, and were ready to be utilized further to treat septage in the MBBR of the CSTP. Further research is required to investigate the efficacy of the MBBR with the acclimatized microorganisms in the CSTP.

The corrosion behavior of the TiTaNbZrAg alloys with different amounts of Tantalum (0 %, 10 % and 20%) and with distinct surface topography (smooth and rough) was investigated in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) for long-time immersion (1000 hours). The corrosion resistance was studied by Open circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic polarization (PP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). From the potentiodynamic investigations, it was observed that all types of samples show good corrosion resistance (i.e. Rcorr < 10µm y-1) and may be used successfully for medical applications. However, the samples with smooth surface and with a certain amount of Ta (10 % and 20%) exhibit the best corrosion performance (Rcorr < 1µm y-1). As regard the samples with rough surface, the results evidenced that they show lower corrosion resistance (1< Rcorr < 3 µm y-1), suggesting that the Ta presence not necessary brings about a very good corrosion protection. Actually, the synergetic effect of both the presence of Ta and surface roughness plays an important role in corrosion behavior. Based on literature reports, we assume that the good corrosion resistance results from the good stability of the film, formed mainly from Ta2O5 and TiO2, formed on the alloy surface during immersion in PBS.

This paper presents a study of the 2D roughness profiles on a flat surface generated on a steel work piece, by ball nose end milling, with linear equidistant tool paths (pick-intervals). The milled surface exploration with a surface roughness tester (on pick and feed directions) produces usually 2D roughness profiles having periodical evolutions. These evolutions can be seen as time-dependent signals, describable as a sum of sinusoidal components (the wavelength of each component being regarded as a period). In order to detect a well approximated description of these components, two appropriate signal processing techniques are used in this work: first technique provides a direct mathematical (analytical) description and is based on computer aided curve (signal) fitting (more accurate), the second technique (providing an indirect and incomplete description) is based on the spectrum generated by fast Fourier transform (less accurate). This study can be seen as a way for a better understanding the interaction between the tool and the work piece or to achieve a mathematical description of the machined surface microgeometry in terms of roughness (e. g. its description being a collection of closely spaced 2D roughness profiles).

The study's objective was to investigate changes in the fatty acid composition of cow milk in general and in 80 Romanian Spotted cows' husbandry and feeding systems in particular (grazing – GC group vs. stabulation – SC group). The ultimate objective was to determine if the changes that happened in the milk also transferred to the finished product. Also, the influence of the raw milk quality produced by both systems was evaluated when yogurt was made from it. The milk was gathered in May, July, and September and used for both the yogurt-making process and the study, which lasted from May to October. As comparison to milk from SC, milk from grazed caws had larger percentages of fat and dry matter throughout the summer (GC) season. Moreover, pasture-based rations (MGC) contained more PUFA than MCS did. Data research revealed that not only do factors like milk origin and initial quality have a substantial impact on yogurt quality parameters, but also technologies like milk fermentation have a considerable impact on the fatty acid profile of yogurt. As comparison to cows kept permanently in stables, grazed cows (MGC) had fat with a lower concentration of saturated fatty acids and a higher proportion of rumenic, vaccenic, and oleic acids (MSC). When fresh milk is processed into yogurt and other dairy products, the fatty acid profiles alter, with saturated fatty acids predominating over unsaturated ones. The findings show that pasture-fed cows have a positive impact on milk quality, particularly in terms of fatty acid profile, as well as on yogurt's ultimate nutritional and dietary quality.

Highly transparent thin films with the chemical formula BaSrMgWO6 were deposited by spin coating using a solution of nitrates of Ba, Sr and Mg and ammonium paratungstate in dimethylformamide with a ratio Ba:Sr:Mg;W=1:1:1:1. XRD, SEM, EDX and XPS investigations evidenced that an annealing at 800 ºC for 1h leaves the structure amorphous with a precipitate on the surface and that a supplementary annealing at 850 ºC for 45 min forms a nanocrystalline structure and dissolves a part of precipitates. It was evidenced a textured double perovskite cubic structure (61.9%) decorated with tetragonal and cubic impurity phases (12.7 %) like BaO2, SrO2 and MgO and an under-stoichiometric phase (24.4%) with the chemical formula Ba2-(x+y) SrxMgyWO5. From transmittance measurements the values of optical band gap were estimated for the amorphous (Eg= 5.15) and nanocrystalline (Eg=4.58 eV) phases. The presence of a lattice disorder was indicated by the high values of Urbach and weak absorption tail energies A decrease in their values was observed and attributed to the crystallization process and cation redistribution.

Major disturbances fundamentally alter ecosystems through the transformation of both biotic and abiotic factors. The eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 resulted in a cataclysmic restructuring of its surrounding landscapes. The Pumice Plain is one of these landscapes, where tree species such as Sitka willow (Salix sitchensis) and their dependent communities have established along newly-formed streams. Thus, the study of these dependent communities provides a unique opportunity to investigate factors influencing metacommunity assembly during true primary succession. We analyzed the influence of landscape connectivity on metacommunity assembly through a novel application of circuit theory, alongside the effects of other factors such as stream locations, willow leaf chemistry, and leaf area. We found that landscape connectivity structures community composition on willows across the Pumice Plain, while our other factors had varied effects. Most importantly, multiple levels of spatial habitat structure linked via landscape connectivity can predict the presence of organisms lacking high rates of dispersal, such as the invasive stem-boring poplar weevil (Cryptorhynchus lapathi). This is critical for management as we show that the maintenance of a heterogeneous mixture of landscape connectivities and resource locations can facilitate meta-community dynamics to promote ecosystem function and mitigate the influences of invasive species.

The aim of the study was to identify the existence of positive relationships between certain psychomotor behaviors, which we consider specific to swimming, and learning the execution technique of some styles (front crawl and backstroke). The study was carried out during 10 months, including 76 children (40 boys and 36 girls) aged between 6-9 years who practice recreational swimming in a Romanian city. Several tests were used: Tapping test for manual dexterity and laterality, the Goudenough test for body schema, the Flamingo test for static balance, the horizontal buoyancy test for body balance on the water. Results indicated better ratings on all psychomotor behaviors analyzed by gender (in favor of girls compared to boys), except for laterality. The levels of all analyzed psychomotor behaviors are directly proportional to the age of the subjects. Also, moderate positive correlations of manual dexterity (rs = 0.63 in front crawl; rs = 0.57 in backstroke) and strong correlations were identified for body scheme, laterality, static balance and buoyancy, coordination with the learning of the two styles of swimming (r or rs between 0.77 and 0.85). In conclusion, psychomotor behaviors can be predictors for learning swimming styles.

The discharge of industrial effluents containing toxic heavy metals in water sources has serious consequences for human health and the environment, and biosorption appears to be an environmental-friendly and cost-effective alternative that can be used for wastewater treatment. The use of different types of agricultural waste as biosorbents for the removal of toxic heavy metals, although an alternative, is quite difficult to apply in practice because these wastes have many other uses. Based on these considerations, in this study, soybean biomass (SB), soybean waste biomass obtained from oil extraction (SBW) and biochar obtained from soybean waste pyrolysis (BC-SBW) were testes as biosorbents form the removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions, in batch systems. Under optimal conditions (pH = 5.4, 4.0 g biosorbent/L, room temperature (25 ± 1 C), contact time = 180 min), the biosorption capacity increase in the order: SB &lt; SBW &lt; BC-SBW for both metal ions, indicating that BC-SBW has the highest efficiency in removing toxic heavy metals. In addition, experiments on wastewater samples have shown that, in addition to significant reducing the content of heavy metals, BC-SBW also significant improved other quality indicators (such as: pH, TSM, CCO-Cr, CBO5), compared to the other biosorbents (SB and SBW). Quantitative evaluation of the biosorptive performance of each biosorbent (SB, SBW and BC-SBW) shows that BC-SBW has a real chance of being used on an industrial scale for wastewater treatment. All these aspects allowed the development of a circular approach for the use of soybean biomass in the removal processes of toxic heavy metals. This approach minimizes the shortcomings of using biomass as a biosorbent and increase the chance of using these materials in industrial practice.

Recent studies in rural heritage tourism have highlighted that an evolutionary economic geography perspective could be helpful in determining whether cultural heritage tourism could stand as a branching-innovating trajectory. Its evolution can be understood by presenting specific mechanisms of layering, recombination and conversion that leads to path development. We contribute to rural heritage tourism by basing our study on perceptions of tourists and local officials on the Rudăria Watermills, Romania. Based on survey and interview data, we document the strengths and limits of local watermills for tourism and describe the entrepreneurial agents involved in path development. Our findings point to the important role played by a local NGO in developing a path for tourism for the watermills, as well as the active involvement of local authorities and other local cultural leaders for including the mills in national and international tourism circuits.

In dermatological practice, disturbances of the skin microbiome are found in various infectious and inflammatory dermatoses featuring one or more skin lesions with loss of tissue, directly exposing skin layers to microbial invasions. Literature data on the incidence of cutaneous-onset sepsis are, however, scarce. This retrospective observational study assessed hospital admissions for primary skin lesions with vs. without bacterial infections and sepsis during 2020-2022 in the largest emergency hospital in NE Romania. Of 509 patients 441 had infected lesions, 78 had sepsis caused by venous ulcers microbial eczema cellulitis, superinfected bullous dermatoses, erysipelas, erythroderma. Cultured samples revealed S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, with K. pneumoniae, S. β-hemolytic associated with sepsis even if rarer. Clinical manifestations included ulcerations, erosions, fissures, excoriations, bullae, vesicles, pruritus, tumefaction, edema, fever, chills, pain, adenopathy, mildly altered mental status. Underlying chronic heart failure, atrial fibrillation, anemia, type-1 diabetes mellitus were comorbidities associated with infection and sepsis. Significant associations and risk factors, including their combined effects, are discussed to draw attention to the need for further research and adequate management to prevent sepsis in adult patients of any age presenting with infected skin lesions (especially cellulitis) and comorbidities (especially type 1 diabetes mellitus and anemia).

The modern age offers many challenges in terms of health related physical condition, such as new technologies, fast and stressful lifestyle, unhealthy diets, alarming statistics on physical activity, etc. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic accentuated the existing problems, being necessary to answer the following questions: what is the fitness level of the population? and how important are physical exercises in human life? The purpose of this paper is to monitor the fitness level of a group of students, with the help of a new fitness test system, providing individualized feedback, guidance, or motivation to the subjects. Thus, we applied the new EFB system (European Fitness Badge), that evaluates certain components of physical condition in relation to health (endurance, strength, coordination, flexibility), on a group of 180 students, 78 male (43.3%) and 102 female (56.7%), with the average age m = 23.59 ± 7.38 years, from different specializations within the U.A.V. Arad. The subjects were divided into two groups: beginners - TP1 (N-93) and advanced - TP2 (N-87). The results showed significant differences in most components of overall fitness depending on the test profile (basic or advanced), demografic factors (sex and age), and student’s major (sport, economics, psychology, etc.), a stronger association between ABSI and overall fitness than BMI, and that test profile acts as mediator between demografic factors (sex and age) and fitness abilities. In conclusion this study evidenced tendencies toward differences between the groups of subjects based on the test profile. Also the advanced profile participant scores were higher than those of the basic profile participants. The results reflect as well a lower BMI and ABSI indexes for the advanced profile participants.

The sustainable development of innovative eco-friendly multifunctional nanocomposites, possessing superior characteristics, is a noteworthy topic. Novel semi-interpenetrated nanocomposite films based on poly(vinyl alcohol) covalently and thermally crosslinked with oxalic acid (OA), reinforced with a novel organophosphorus flame retardant (PFR-4) derived from co-polycondensation in solution reaction of equimolar amounts of co-monomers, namely, bis((6-oxido-6H-dibenz[c,e][1,2]oxaphosphorinyl)-(4-hydroxyaniline)-methylene)-1,4-phenylene, bisphenol S, and phenylphosphonic dichloride, in a molar ratio of 1:1:2, and additionally doped with silver-loaded zeolite L nanoparticles (ze-Ag), have been prepared by casting from solution technique. The morphology of the as prepared PVA-oxalic acid films and their semi-interpenetrated nanocomposites with PFR-4 and ze-Ag was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while the homogeneous distribution of the organophosphorus compound and nanoparticles within the nanocomposite films has been introspected by means of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). It was established that composites with a very low phosphorus content had noticeably improved flame retardancy. The peak of the heat release rate was reduced up to 55%, depending on the content of the flame retardant additive and the doping ze-Ag nanoparticles introduced into the PVA/OA matrix. The ultimate tensile strength and elastic modulus increased significantly in the reinforced nanocomposites. Considerably increased antimicrobial activity was revealed in the case of the samples containing silver-loaded zeolite L nanoparticles.

Identifying skeletal remains has been and will remain a challenge for forensic doctors and forensic anthropologists, especially in disasters with multiple victims or skeletal remains in an advanced stage of decomposition. This study proposes a machine learning method to determine gender starting from morphometric analysis of L1-L5 lumbar vertebrae in a modern Romanian population. The purpose of the present study was to observe whether by using the ML method there is a good predictability of gender in forensic identification based on parameters obtained from the metric analysis of the lumbar spine specific to the Romanian population. This paper offers two models of ML, RF and XGB, each with its own characteristics, and presenting different performance, random forest having the best. For both, we used two metrics (accuracy and roc_auc), the latter being the most used to highlight model performance. The L1-L5 lumbar vertebrae exhibit sexual dimorphism and can be used in gender estimation. Machine learning is more accurate in determining gender than discriminatory function analysis.

This study aims to establish whether the use of biomaterials, particularly polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), for surgical reconstruction of the esophagus with templates, Montgomery salivary tube, after radical oncology surgery for malignant neoplasia is an optimal choice for patients’ safety and for optimal function preservation and organ rehabilitation. Methods: Structural analysis by Raman spectrometry and biomechanical properties with dynamic mechanical analysis are performed for fatigue strength and toughness, essential factors in durability of a prosthesis in the reconstruction practice of the esophagus. Nanocomposites with silicone elastomers and nanoparticles used in implantable devices and in the reconstruction surgery are facing risks of infection and fatigue strength when required to perform a mechanical effort for long periods of time. Results: This report takes into account the effect of silver (Ag) nanoparticles on the fatigue strength using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix, representative for silicon elastomers used in implantable devices. PDMS with 5% (wt) Ag nanoparticles of 100-150 nm during mechanical fatigue testing at shear strength loses elasticity properties after 400 loading-unloading cycles and up to 15% shear strain. The fatigue strength, toughness, maximum shear strength are the key issues in designing Montgomery salivary tube with appropriate biomechanical behavior for each patient. Conclusions: Prosthesis design needs to indulge both clinical outcome as well as design methods and research in the field of biomaterials.

(1) Background: In a society with an advancing aging rate, medical systems are coming under pressure due to an increasing flow of elderly patients with multiple somatic diseases, exacerbated by their fragile psychological and sociological backgrounds. We aimed to investigate the relationship be-tween frailty and loneliness in elderly people. Our research question was “Is there a link between the loneliness and frailty in elderly people?” (2) Methods: To assess the link between loneliness and frailty, we conducted a search accessing Index Medicus and PubMed; the timeframe of our research was from 2013 till 2023. Data regarding the study population, as well as loneliness and fragility assessments and approaches, were extracted. (3) Results: A positive relationship between loneliness and the appearance and progression of frailty in elderly people is argued for. (4) Conclusions: Maintaining a balance in the body’s functionality for as long as possible requires the diagnosis and periodic assessment of health status at any age and, due to the various socio-financial and emotional implications, is particularly imperative for elderly patients. Frailty can be prevented, and it appears that it could even be reversed if early diagnosis and appropriate interventions are made. Therefore, knowledge of relevant risk factors—most likely including loneliness—is an absolute necessity to slow down, stop, and even reverse the frailty process.

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA), the most common knee degenerative disease, involve a slow destructive process, leading to disability and ultimately total knee replacement. The progression of KOA is related to the loss of rheological properties of the synovial fluid (SF), due to slow immunological, inflammatory and enzymatic processes that cleave the hyaluronic acid (HA) and decrease the concentration of specific proteins. Since no effective treatments have been found to halt the progression of KOA, injection of HA-based viscoelastic gels combined with physiotherapy (PT) is an alternative to symptomatic therapies. In order to evaluate the effect of viscosupplementation and PT on the SF characteristics, the SF aspirated from the KOA was spectrophotometrically and rheological analyzed, comparing the receiving groups of HA Kombihylan® and groups that received Kombihylan® and complex PT. In patients treated with PT, SF extracted 6 weeks after viscosupplementation had a superior elastic moduli (G') and viscous moduli (G") profile behavior, having a homogeneous distribution of proteins and polysaccharides in the SF, stimulating stronger interactions. In the absence of PT the G' and G" profiles are non-uniform, suggesting an unorganized supplemented SF with some clustering phenomena, proteins aggregation and a low level of entanglement between HA and macromolecular components in the SF.

Abstract: Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare disorder of glucose metabolism and is the most common cause of severe and persistent hypoglycemia (hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, HH) in the neonatal period and childhood. Most cases are caused by mutations in the ABCC8 and KCNJ11 genes that encode the ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP). We present the correlation between genetic heterogeneity and the variable phenotype in patients with early-onset hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia caused by ABCC8 gene mutations. In the first patients, which presented persistent severe hypoglycemia since the first day of life, molecular genetic testing revealed the presence of a homozygous mutation in the ABCC8 gene [deletion in the ABCC8 gene c.(2390+1_2391-1)_(3329+1_3330- 1)del] correlated with a diffuse form of hyperinsulinism (the parents being healthy heterozygous carriers). In the second patient, the onset was on the third day of life with severe hypoglycemia, and genetic testing identified a heterozygous mutation in the ABCC8 gene c.1792C&gt;T (p.Arg598*) inherited on the paternal line, which led to the diagnosis of focal form of hyperinsulinism. To locate the focal lesions, (18)F-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy-6-[18F]fluoro-L-phenylalanine) PET/CT was recommended (an investigation that cannot be carried out in the country), but the parents refused to carry out the investigation abroad. In this case, early surgical treatment could have been curative. In addition, the second child also presented secondary adrenal insufficiency requiring replacement therapy. At the same time, she developed early recurrent seizures that required antiepileptic treatment. We emphasize the importance and of molecular genetic testing for diagnosis, management and genetic counseling in patients with HH.

(1) Background: Food waste (FW) in Romania is 70 Kg/capita/year, while 70% of food waste comes from public catering, retail services, and households (over 50% – 47 million tons). (2) Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an online questionnaire via the Google Forms platform from 15 April 2023 to 15 May 2023. The questionnaire was designed to assess various aspects, such as some socio-demographic information (age, sex, occupation, area of residence, study level, household members number, children &lt; 18 years of age); the personal involvement and frequency of food purchases and homemade food cooking; the main sources that generate food waste; the motivation and frequency with which food waste occurs; the level of awareness regarding the impact of food waste; the respondents' intentions regarding sustainable behaviors and practices food management; the level of information and familiarity of the respondents with the notions of validity and how these may influence their food consumption decisions. (3) The results show that FW incidence is occasionally (42%), very rarely (43.33%), frequently (15%), and no food waste was reported by 2.66% of respondents. The [35-44] age category records the highest FW frequency, followed by [18-24]. The most wasted are homemade food (29.67%), bread and bakery products (27.00%), and fruits and vegetables (14.33%). High involvement in purchasing and buying food following a previously established list reduces FW frequency. The same is valid for high daily involvement in food and homemade cooking. High interest in the FW problem and its perception as a waste of money leads to diminishing it, while guilty feelings increase the FW level (37.50% to 73.33%). (4) Conclusions: The present study shows that household food waste management is a multifactorial process that involves numerous socio-demographic, behavioral, and emotional aspects. Extensive data analysis supports our results, revealing deep self-reported information details and confirming its complex approach.

Elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels are commonly associated with allergies. However, high IgE levels are also found in several other infectious and non-infectious disorders. Elevated IgE levels typically suggest allergies, eczema, or recurrent skin infections. Very high IgE levels are uncommon in patients with active eczema but typically reflect a monogenic atopic condition or inborn immune defects with an atopic phenotype. The aim of our research is to identify if the possible cause of high IgE levels is also dependent on external factors, age, or associated recurrent pathologies such as infections. To answer this question, we performed a one-year retrospective study that included 200 hospitalized children who had at least two viral or bacterial infections in the six months preceding hospitalization. Measurements of IgE and allergen panels (respiratory and digestive) using blood samples revealed that individuals who tested positive for the body’s synthesis of hyperimmunoglobulin E were not observably allergic to any potential allergens despite having higher total serum IgE. According to the results, there was a strong correlation between elevated IgE serum levels and a history of infectious diseases among the patients.

This article aims to present the outcomes of a study focused on collaboratively developing an Innovation Management Model (IMG) tailored for Colombia's leather agro-industrial chain. The study integrates stakeholder participation, prioritization of variables, literature review, and model validation, emphasizing sustainability considerations throughout the process. Methodologically, it involved a literature review using Scopus, focusing on innovation management models, open innovation, and sustainability, particularly within the leather sector. The search identified 43 documents in Scopus, of which 15 were directly relevant; this analysis was complemented by 18 articles from Google Scholar. Three surveys were conducted to prioritize variables, utilizing Lik-ert-scale questions to assess relevance and congruence. Conceptual innovation models were validated graphically. Initial variables were identified, with 53 selected for the entry stage, 36 for the transformation stage, and 31 for the exit stage. These variables were classified for each stage, resulting in three innovation management models for validation. Key findings included 26 critical variables covering aspects such as agricultural and technological innovation in platforms and projects, capacity development, R&D activities, supply chain dynamics, innovation management processes, knowledge and technology integration, business model adaptation for sustainable development, and environmental impact assessment. The prioritized innovation model is in-tended to assist stakeholders in the leather sector's innovation system by promoting open inno-vation strategies, sustainable and regenerative innovation generation, and enhancing strategic and technological capacities. The prioritized innovation model aims to assist stakeholders in the leather sector's innovation system by promoting open innovation strategies, sustainable and re-generative innovation generation, and enhancing strategic and technological capacities.

(1) Background: The prediction of cervical lesions evolution is a challenge for clinicians. The prospective study aimed to determine and compare the predictive accuracy of cytology, HPV genotyping, and p16/Ki67 dual staining alone or in combination with personal risk factors for the prediction of progression, regression or persistence of cervical lesions in human papillomavirus (HPV)-infected patients; (2) Methods: This prospective study included HPV-positive patients with or without cervical lesions that underwent follow-up. Descriptive statistics and sensitivity analysis for individual or combined index tests were used for data analysis; (3) Results: The highest predictive performance for the progression of cervical lesions was achieved by a model that comprised a Pap smear suggestive of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), the presence of 16/18 HPV strains, a positive p16/Ki67 dual staining result along with the presence of at least 3 clinical risk factors, which had a sensitivity (Se) of 74.42%, a specificity of 97.92%, an area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) of 0.961, and an accuracy of 90.65%. The prediction of cervical lesions regression or persistence was modest; (4) Conclusions: Multiple testing or new biomarkers should be used to improve HPV-positive patient surveillance, especially for cervical lesion regression or persistence prediction.

Resveratrol (RSV), a naturally occurring phytoalexin, is the most important stilbenoid synthesized by plants, as a defense mechanism, in response to microbial aggression, toxins or ultraviolet radiation. RSV came to the attention of researchers both as a potential chemopreventive agent and a possible explanation for the low incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in French people with a high-fat diet. RSV is mainly administered as a food supplement, its properties being evaluated in vitro or in vivo, on various experimental models. RSV modulates signaling pathways that limit the spread of tumor cells, protects nerve cells from damage, is useful in the prevention of diabetes, and generally acts as an anti-aging natural compound. It was highlighted that RSV could ameliorate the consequences of an unhealthy lifestyle caused by an exaggerated caloric intake. This paper reviews the evidence supporting the beneficial effect of RSV for various pathological conditions, e.g., neoplastic diseases, neurodegeneration, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, obesity, CVDs, immune diseases, bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. The study also focused on the chromatographic analysis of trans-RSV (tRSV) in Romanian wine samples, providing a comprehensive overview of tRSV content across different types of wine.

(1) Background: better mechanistic understanding of desmosome disruption and acantholysis in Grover disease (GD) may improve management of this disease. Recent molecular studies highlighted promising pathways to be explored, by directly comparing GD and selected features of associated skin diseases. The association between GD and cutaneous keratinocyte carcinomas, the most prevalent non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), is not completely characterized. (2) Objective: To review the medical literature regarding GD-associated cutaneous keratinocyte cancers, focusing on molecular features, pathophysiological mechanisms and disease associations, to help guide future research and patient management. (3) Result: GD has been associated with a variety of skin conditions, but its association with skin cancers has been rarely reported. Between 1983 and 2024 only 9 scientific papers presented data supporting this association. Interestingly, we found that GD may mimic multiple NMSCs, as few authors reported GD cases misdiagnosed as multiple cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas for more than 4 years, or the presence of superficial basal cell carcinoma–like areas associated with focal acantholysis. (4) Conclusions: (a) GD may be an imitator of multiple NMSCs and (b) the relationship between GD and NMSCs may reveal promising pathways for the mechanistic understanding of desmosome disruption and acantholysis in GD and may even lead to its reclassification as a distinctive syndrome.

The intricate nature of congenital heart disease requires understanding of complex, patient-specific three-dimensional dynamic anatomy of the heart, from imaging data such as three-dimensional echocardiography for successful outcomes from surgical and interventional procedures. Conventional clinical systems use flat screens and therefore display remains two-dimensional, which undermines the full understanding of the three-dimensional dynamic data. Additionally, control of three-dimensional visualisation with two-dimensional tools is often difficult, so used only by imaging specialists. In this paper we describe a virtual reality system for immersive surgery planning using dynamic three-dimensional echocardiography, which enables fast prototyping for visualisation such as volume rendering, multi-planar reformatting, flow visualisation, and advanced interaction such as three-dimensional cropping, windowing, measurement, haptic feedback, automatic image orientation, and multi-user interactions. The available features were evaluated by imaging and non-imaging clinicians, showing that the virtual reality system can help improve understanding and communication of the three-dimensional echocardiography imaging and potentially benefit congenital heart disease treatment.

Tailoring extracellular vesicles (EVs) as targeted drug delivery systems to enhance the therapeutic efficacy showed superior advantage over liposomal therapies. Herein, we developed a novel nanotool for targeting B16.F10 murine melanoma, based on EVs stabilized with Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and loaded with doxorubicin (DOX). Nanosized EVs were efficiently enriched from melanoma cells cultured under metabolic stress by ultrafiltration coupled with size exclusion chromatography (UF-SEC) and characterized by size, morphology, and proteome. To reduce their clearance in vivo, EVs were PEGylated and passively loaded with DOX (PEG-EV-DOX). Our data suggested that the low PEG coverage of EVs might still favor EV surface protein interactions with target proteins from intratumor cells, ensuring their use as “Trojan horses” to deliver DOX to the tumor tissue. Moreover, our results showed a superior antitumor activity of PEG-EV-DOX in B16.F10 murine melanoma models in vitro and in vivo compared to that exerted by clinically applied liposomal DOX in the same tumor model. The PEG-EV-DOX administration in vivo reduced NF-κB activation and increased BAX expression, suggesting better prognosis of EV-based therapy than liposomal DOX treatment. Collectively, our results highlight the promising potential of EVs as optimal tools for systemic delivery of DOX to solid tumors.

We performed a comprehensive analysis of angiosarcoma (AS) genomic biomarkers and their associations with the site of origin. We aimed to describe the genomic landscape of AS in a cohort of 143 cases of AS profiled by Caris Life Sciences. Data of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) with a 592 gene panel was available for the entire cohort. Fifty-three cases had data of Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) which we used to study the microenvironment phenotype. Immuno-therapy (IO) response biomarkers: Tumor Mutation Burden (TMB), Microsatellite Instability (MSI) and PD-L1 status were included. IO-response markers were present in 36.4% of the cohort and in 65% of head and neck AS (H/N-AS) (p<0.0001). H/N-AS cases had predominantly muta-tions in TP53 (50.0%, p=0.0004), POT1 (40.5%, p<0.0001) and ARID1A (33.3%, p=0.5875). In breast AS, leading alterations were MYC amplification (63.3%, p<0.0001), HRAS (16.1%, p=0.0377), and PI3KCA (16.1%, p=0.2352). A microenvironment with a high immune signature, associated with better response to IO, was present in 13% of the cases. This signature was evenly distributed among different primary sites. We found that the molecular biology for AS varies significantly according to the primary site. Our findings can facilitate the design and optimiza-tion of therapeutic strategies for AS to overcome resistance to IO and targeted therapies.

Shiga-like toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a well-known cause of foodborne acute diarrheic diseases especially in children and the elderly. The potentially fatal complications associated with toxin production range from bloody diarrhoea and ischemic colitis to kidney failure, haemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) and colon perforation. We describe a case and literature review of STEC – induced colitis, highlighting the clinical features, and the necessary tools for the best diagnosis approach and management. Facing challenging differential diagnosis ranging from ischemic colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, to infectious process due to a pathogenic or opportunistic agent, we practiced a step-by-step exploration. Beginning with bacteriological investigation, imagistic screening, and colonoscopy, we could rule out some of initial suppositions and reach the final diagnosis, also considering the pathological results. Although antibiotics are not indicated in this pathology, our patient did receive antibiotics, given the risk of translocation and colon perforation, without associating any complications, as HUS or peritonitis. Detailed and rigorous investigations along with a multi-speciality team are required for a prompt medical support. Coping the symptoms and refraining from further complications are the mainstem of the treatment.

Crystalline silver thin layers were obtained by high-energy pulsed laser ablation without heating of the deposition substrate. The fluid Plateau-Rayleigh (PRI), Rayleigh – Taylor (RTI) and Richtmyer – Meshkov (RMI) instabilities, as well as crown splash induced during pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in high energy regime, resulting in ring and pearl shaped structures, offer the benefit of increased sorption surface. These morphological structures obtained for the silver thin layers make them of interest for catalytic applications. The study presented with this work addresses both the fundamental and applied issues on the morphological structures obtained for the silver thin layer and their catalytic function in organic processes. In this sense, the catalytic action of the thin silver layer was highlighted by modifications of the Reactive Blue 21 dye (C.I.) in aqueous solution with sodium bicarbonate. Specific investigations and analyzes were carried out by electron microscopy and elemental analysis (SEM-EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and profilometry, mass spectrometry, ablation plasma diagnosis, diffractograms (XRD), as well as IR spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition to the experimental investigation and analyzes, simulation of the ionization energy threshold was conducted in COMSOL for complementary evaluation on the involved processes and phenomena.

The artificial solar saltwork fields of Hon Khoi are important industrial and biodiversity resources in southern Vietnam. Most hypersaline environments in this area are characterized by saturated salinity, nearly neutral pH, intense ultraviolet radiation, elevated temperatures and fast desiccation processes. However, the extreme halophilic prokaryotic communities associated with these stressful environments remain uninvestigated. To fill this gap, a metabarcoding approach was conducted to characterize these communities by comparing them with solar salterns in northern Vietnam as well as with Italian salterns. Sequencing analyses revealed that the multiple reuses of crystallization ponds apparently create significant perturbations and structural instability in prokaryotic consortia. However, some interesting features were noticed when we examined the diversity of ultra-small prokaryotes belonging to Patescibacteria and DPANN Archaea. Surprisingly, we found at least five deeply branched clades, two from Patescibacteria and three from DPANN Archaea, which seem to be quite specific to Hon Khoi saltwork fields ecosystem and can be considered as a part of biogeographical connotation. Further studies are needed to characterize these uncultivated taxa, to isolate and cultivate them, which will allow us to elucidate their ecological role in these hypersaline habitats and to explore their biotechnological and biomedical potential.

The production and consumption of nuts are increasing in the world due to strong economic returns and the nutritional value of their products. With the increasing role and importance given to nuts (i.e., walnuts, hazelnut, pistachio, pecan, almond) in a balanced and healthy diet and in the prevention of various diseases, breeding of the nuts species has also been stepped up. Most recent fruit breeding programs have focused on scion genetic improvement. However, the use of locally adapted grafted rootstocks also enhanced the productivity and quality of tree fruit crops. Grafting is an ancient horticultural practice use in nut crops to manipulate scion phenotype and productivity and overcome biotic and abiotic stresses. There are complex rootstock breeding objectives and physiological and molecular aspects of rootstock–scion interactions in nut crops. In this review, we provide an overview of these, considering the mechanisms involved in nutrient and water uptake, regulation of phytohormones, and rootstock influences on the scion molecular processes, including long-distance gene silencing and trans-grafting. Understanding the mechanisms resulting from rootstock × scion × environmental interactions will contribute to developing new rootstocks with resilience in the face of climate change, but also of the multitude of diseases and pests and of the possible increase of their aggressiveness. They will also have to offer the premises of economic production, respectively yield and the quality, according to multiple destinations of nuts in the current consumption and food industry, but also the increasing exigencies of the consumer market and the profile industry.

Background: Early diagnosis of postoperative complications is an urgent task, allowing timely prescribing of appropriate therapy and reducing the cost of patient treatment. Prognostic models based on various data could help in the early diagnosis of postoperative complications after cardiac surgery. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine whether an integrated approach based on clinical data along with metabolites and biomarkers had greater predictive value than the models built on less data. Methods: The study included patients (n=62) admitted for planned cardiac surgery (coronary artery bypass grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass), who were retrospectively divided into two groups depending on the presence (n=26) or absence (n=36) of postoperative complications of all types. Clinical and laboratory data on the first day after surgery were analyzed. Additionally, patients' blood samples were collected before and on the first day after surgery to determine biomarkers (interleukin-6, procalcitonin, NT-proBNP, high-sensitivity troponin T) and metabolites (8 aromatic and 2 dicarboxylic acids were detected using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). Results: Patients before surgery, compared with healthy donors, differed in the concentration of metabolites (p &lt; 0.05), and had concentrations of a number of biomarkers exceeding the corresponding reference values. Multivariate PLS-DA models, predicting the presence or absence of postoperative complications, were built using clinical data (ROC-AUC=0.71), concentrations of metabolites and biomarkers (ROC-AUC=0.60), and the entire data set (ROC-AUC=0.75). For comparison we built univariate models using the EuroScore2 (ROC-AUC=0.59) and SOFA (ROC-AUC=0.76) scales; concentrations of lactate (ROC-AUC=0.71), the dynamic changes of 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid (ROC-AUC=0.69), and the sum of three sepsis-associated metabolites (ROC-AUC=0.70). The proposed complex model using entire data set was comparable to the SOFA scale, which confirms the expediency of searching for new predictive models based on a variety of factors.

Milk serves as a crucial source of natural bioactive compounds essential for human nutrition and health. The gastrointestinal digestion of milk proteins releases various biologically active peptides that positively impact human health and enhance physiological performance. With the growing production of cheese, Greek yogurt, and other dairy products, the volume of unutilized acid whey is significantly increasing. Acid whey, containing almost all whey proteins and approximately one-quarter of casein, presents a valuable raw material for generating peptides with potential health benefits. These peptides exhibit properties such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antihypertensive, antithrombotic, opioid, mineral-binding, and growth-stimulating activities, contributing to improved human immunity and the treatment of chronic diseases. Enzymatic hydrolysis of milk proteins has been developed as a method to produce these peptides, facilitating their use in food fortification. To incorporate whey into functional beverages, it undergoes fermentation by lactic acid bacteria with proteolytic activity. To specifically enrich these beverages with peptides exhibiting targeted bioactivities, it is essential to select lactic acid bacteria strains possessing the requisite protease profiles. Additionally, the sensory properties of the final product can be enhanced using starter cultures with diverse metabolic capabilities, even in the absence of added flavoring agents. Given the imperative to develop waste-free technologies and enhance the profitability of the dairy industry, there is a growing need to efficiently utilize and transform acid whey into a broad spectrum of valuable products and food additives. This approach is justified not only by the nutritional benefits of the bioactive components in whey but also by the commercial potential of safe and health-enhancing products.

The paper focuses on the application of a multilevel, integrative and territorial approach to the protection of cultural heritage through planning instruments in Serbia. It points out the problems of the sectoral approach and discusses international recommendations that can be integrated into the planning methodology. The case study is the area of Djerdap National Park, which has an already established international and national importance. The research suggests that the cultural heritage in the area, with the exception of the Roman limes, is still recognized at the level of individual localities. The study emphasizes the importance of aligning all levels of governance to safeguard the whole spatial entity rather than focusing solely on its particular areas. The interna-tional and national importance of the planning area contributes to the strengthening of awareness of heritage and its institutional protection. However, the vitality of the area, which is key to its sustainable development, comes from the local level. Planning documents contribute to the inte-gration of local values and local communities into development programs and projects.

The impact of interaction SS with MJO on rainfall along Java Island to East Nusa Tenggara has been studied using daily rainfall observation data from 2140 weather observation stations, which are also equipped with GSMaP, OLR, and ERA5 data. There were 61 SS events found, 17 during active MJO and 44 in inactive MJO. Rainfall increases more in the western study area when the active MJO and more in the eastern study area when the inactive MJO is due to SS. SS reduces rainfall in the Jakarta region, regardless of the activity or inactivity of the MJO. SS causes extreme rainfall to only occur in a small part of certain areas, so it tends to significantly reduce the possibility of extreme rainfall. In the southern part of the IMC, SS predominates over MJO in supporting increased water vapor transport. Large-scale synoptic circulations like the monsoon, SS, and MJO can interact with local land-sea wind circulation to produce spatiotemporal variability in rainfall on Java Island. Rainfall mostly increases in the afternoon and decreases in the morning when SS occurs, whether there is MJO or not. Convective instability analysis indicates that SS increases precipitation, most likely by lowering CIN and raising VIMFC.

In order to shorten the detection time and improve the average precision on embedded devices, A lightweight and high accuracy model is proposed for passion fruit in complex environments (backlight, occlusion, overlap, sunny, cloudy, rainy). Firstly, replacing the backbone network of YOLOv5 with a lightweight GhostNet model reduces the number of parameters and computation while improving detection speed. Secondly, a new feature branch is added to the GhostNet network, and the feature fusion layer in the neck network is reconstructed to effectively combine the lower-level and higher-level features, which not only improves the accuracy of the model but also maintains its lightweight. Finally, the knowledge distillation methods are used to transfer the knowledge from the more capable teacher model to the less capable student model, which significantly improving the detection accuracy. The improved model is denoted as G-YOLO-NK. The average accuracy of the G-YOLO-NK network is 96.00%, which is 1.00% higher than the original YOLOv5s model. Furthermore, the improved model size is 7.14MB, reduced to half of the original model, and the real-time detection frame rate is 11.25 FPS on the Jetson Nano. Compared to the state-of-the-art model, the proposed model outperforms them in terms of average precision and detection performance. The present work provides an effective model for real-time detection of passion fruits in complex orchard scenes, which can provide valuable technical support for the development of orchard picking robots and greatly improve the intelligence level of orchards.

The Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM) scanner is an easy and portable Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) data acquisition device. Its main output is a 3D point cloud covering the scanned scene. Regarding the importance of accuracy in the survey domain, this paper aims to assess the accuracy of two SLAM scanners: the NavVis VLX and the BLK2GO Scanner. This assessment is conducted for both outdoor and indoor environments. In this context, two types of reference data are used: the Total Station (TS) and the static scanner Z+F Imager 5016. To carry out the assessment, four comparisons are tested: cloud to cloud, cloud to mesh, mesh to mesh, and edge detection board assessment. However, the results of the assessments confirm that the accuracy of indoor SLAM scanner measurements (5 mm) is greater than that of outdoor ones (between 10 mm and 60 mm). Moreover, the comparison of cloud to cloud provides the best accuracy regarding direct accuracy measurement without manipulations. Finally, based on the high accuracy, scanning speed, flexibility, and the accuracy differences between tested cases, it is confirmed that SLAM scanners are effective tools for data acquisition.