Karst aquifers show dissolution/precipitation processes of the minerals present in the carbonate rocks. The Ring of Cenotes (RC) extends along the edge of the Chicxulub crater, in the limestone platform of the Yucatan Peninsula (YP), where groundwater shows preferential flow paths toward the coast near Celestun and Dzilam Bravo towns. This study aimed to describe the regional hydrogeochemical evolution of groundwater of the RC, and its association with the dissolution/precipitation of the minerals present along its path to the ocean. To achieve this aim, we: a) characterized groundwater's hydrogeochemistry; b) determined the calcite, dolomite, and gypsum saturation indexes (reaction phases with the groundwater) in the study area; c) proposed a hydrogeochemical model developed through PHREEQC using an inverse modelling approach. The model predictions confirmed that there are two evolution pathways of the groundwater consistent with the preferential flow paths suggested in a previous regionalization of the RC. On the western path, where groundwater flows towards Celestun, an important marine intrusion influences the hydrogeochemical processes and represents a risk for the prevalence of freshwater. On the eastern path, where groundwater flows toward Dzilam Bravo, the hydrogeochemistry in the sinkholes correlates well with rainfall, suggesting a higher vulnerability during droughts than during rainy periods.

Fractals offer the ability to generate fascinating geometric shapes with all sorts of unique characteristics (for instance, fractal geometry provides a basis for modelling infinite detail found in nature). While fractals are non-euclidean mathematical objects which possess an assortment of properties (e.g., attractivity and symmetry), they are also able to be scaled down, rotated, skewed and replicated in embedded contexts. Hence, many different types of fractals have come into limelight since their origin discovery. One particularly popular method for generating fractal geometry is using Julia sets. Julia sets provide a straightforward and innovative method for generating fractal geometry using an iterative computational modelling algorithm. In this paper, we present a method that combines Julia sets with dual-quaternion algebra. Dual-quaternions are an alluring principal with a whole range interesting mathematical possibilities. Extending fractal Julia sets to encompass dual-quaternions algebra provides us with a novel visualize solution. We explain the method of fractals using the dual-quaternions in combination with Julia sets. Our prototype implementation demonstrate an efficient methods for rendering fractal geometry using dual-quaternion Julia sets based upon an uncomplicated ray tracing algorithm. We show a number of different experimental isosurface examples to demonstrate the viability of our approach.

: Julia Creek dunnarts are an endangered species of carnivorous marsupials and the focus of multiple conservation strategies involving significant resources such as captive breeding programs. Despite the relevance for conservation, no study to date has focused on evaluating geriatric diseases in dunnarts. This study describes the pathology findings in a group of one wild and 35 captive-born, mostly geriatric Julia Creek dunnarts that failed to produce offspring over multiple breeding periods. A total of 20 females and 16 males were submitted for a postmortem examination, with ages ranging from 9-42 and 12-42 months for females and males, respectively. Of these, 10 had unremarkable findings. The most common condition in females was cystic glandular hyperplasia (n=8), typical of hormonal dysregulation profiles in senescence, particularly hyperestrogenism. Rarely, cutaneous disease represented by unidentified dermal round cell infiltrates was observed in females (n=2). Primary reproductive hormonal dysregulation was also suspected in males diagnosed with testicular degeneration, aspermatogenesis and/or atrophy (n=3). Cutaneous round cell infiltrates, possibly compatible with epitheliotropic lymphomas were seen in males (n=3), and 2/3 affected males also had concurrent testicular degeneration or atrophy, indicating male sex could be a predictor for lymphoid neoplasia in aged dunnarts especially in individuals with concurrent testosterone-luteinizing hormone dysregulation as it occurs in gonadectomized animals. The role of an underlying viral etiology is also explored. This study is the first to describe major spontaneous diseases in endangered aged Julia Creek dunnarts, providing an important understanding of senescence and geriatric diseases within a conservation context.

The Julia-Kocienski olefination reaction has become over past 30 years since its discovery one of the key C-C connective methods that is used in the late-stage natural product synthesis. The reaction proceeds under mild reaction conditions, with wide substrate scope and functional group tolerance, and with high (E) selectivity. In this review, we discuss the reaction from a mechanistic point of view and disclose key features that play an important role in reaction selectivity. Finally, the mechanistic aspects of the newly developed modification of the Julia-Kocienski reaction, which allows the formation of both (E) and (Z) olefins, from the same reaction partners, are discussed.

The paper presents the main experimental capabilities of the automatic system for the study of the interaction between porous media and atmosphere. This system is one of the possible variants of patent 2-241-477. The paper shows the result of a drying and wetting study of a tailings sample. The sample is 32 cm in height and 29 cm in diameter. The saturation and drying process was carried out at 26 degrees Celsius at the sample surface, an air velocity of 2 m/s and a relative humidity of 60%. The recharge applied to the column surface was 0.3 cm3/cm2/minute. The results show the effectiveness of the system in controlling the spatial-temporal variation of different physical properties of the porous medium in the vertical and surface profile. The controlled variables include volumetric water content, suction, relative humidity, sample weight variation due to recharge or drying, shrinkage, temperature, etc. The experiment shows how the tailings saturate very quickly but dry very slowly. Tailings consolidation occurs in the drying and wetting processes, being higher in the first one.

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk for the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the main cause of mortality worldwide, and it is characterized by high levels of circulating cholesterol. The drugs currently available for hypercholesterolemia control have several side effects, so it is necessary to develop new effective and safer therapies. Seaweeds serve as sources of several bio-active compounds with claimed beneficial effects. Eisenia bicyclis (Aramé) and Porphyra tenera (Nori) are edible seaweeds which were previously recognized as rich in bioactive compounds. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the anti-hypercholesterolemia effect of these two seaweeds ex-tracts and their health potential. Both extracts, but more efficiently Aramé extract demonstrated to have liver 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) inhibitory activity and to reduce approximately 30 % cholesterol permeation through human Caco-2 cells simulating the intestinal lining, targets for hypercholesterolemia treatments. An untargeted metabolomic assay on human intestinal Caco-2 and liver Hep-G2 cells lines exposed to Aramé and Nori extracts revealed changes in the cell’s metabolism as indicators of the extract’s health beneficial effects. The metabolic pathways affected by exposure to both extracts were associated to lipid metabolism, such as phospholipids, and fatty acid metabolism, pathways of amino acid, cofactors and vitamins and cellular respiration metabolism. More profound for Aramé treated cells, but also seen for Nori ex-posed cells, the metabolites modifications were associated with the protection against CVDs and other diseases and, to the improvement of cells oxidative stress tolerance. The results obtained for the anti-hypercholesterolemia properties, in addition to the revelation of the positive impact on cells metabolism, are an important contribution for further evaluation of these seaweeds extracts as functional foods or for CVDs prevention.

Optical properties of the cornea are responsible for correct vision, ultrastructure allows optical transparency and biomechanical properties governs the shape, elasticity or stiffness of the cor-nea affecting ocular integrity and intraocular pressure. Therefore, optical aberrations, corneal transparency, structure and biomechanics play a fundamental role in the optical quality of hu-man vision, ocular health and refractive surgery outcomes. However, the convergence of those properties is not yet reported at macroscopic scale within the hierarchical structure of the cornea. This work explores the relationships between biomechanics, structure and optical properties (corneal aberrations and optical density) at macrostructural level of the cornea through dual Placido-Scheimpflug imaging and air-puff tonometry systems in a healthy young adult popula-tion. Results showed convergence between optical transparency, corneal macrostructure and biomechanics.

The cornea is the optical window to the brain. Its optical and structural properties are responsible for optical transparency and vision. The shape, elasticity, rigidity or stiffness are given by its biomechanical properties, whose stability results in ocular integrity and intraocular pressure dynamics. Here, we report in vivo observation of structural changes and biomechanical alterations of the human cornea induced by acoustic wave pressure within the frequency range of 50-350 Hz and 90 dB of sound pressure level. Central corneal thickness (CCT) and eccentricity (e2) were measured using Scheimpflug imaging and biomechanical properties [corneal hysteresis (CH) and intraocular pressure (IOP] were assessed with air-puff tonometry in 6 young healthy subjects. At the specific 150 Hz acoustic frequency, the variation in CCT and e2 were of 0.058 and 7.33 µm, respectively. Biomechanical alterations were also observed in both IOP (decrease of 3.60 mmHg) and CH that showed an increase of 0.40 mmHg.

The overhead squat movement engages various bodily structures, and its interaction with three-dimensional elastic resistance along the kinetic chain approach remains insufficiently comprehended. This study aimed to describe the scapular kinematics during an overhead squat with the forearm in a supination exercise against an ER and clarify the therapeutic potential of this exercise on scapular rehabilitation. Using an electromagnetic tracking system, we recorded the three-dimensional shoulder kinematics of 19 male participants across seven humeral elevation positions. These positions were captured at 15-degree intervals, spanning from 30 to 120 degrees. The results indicated notable distinctions in scapular upward rotation [F(1,17)=6.09, p=0.024] and scapular posterior tilt [F(1,17)=6.04, p=0.025] between the phases. Furthermore, the interactions revealed significant differences in resistance and phases during humeral elevation for scapular upward/downward rotation [F(3.77,62.48)=7.99, p<0.001], scapular internal/external rotation [F(2.98, 50.64, p<0.001)], and scapular tilt [F(2.58, 43.81)=4.76, p=0.008]. The findings demonstrated that increasing resistance through elastic resistance played a pivotal role in enhancing scapular stability throughout the humerus elevation motion. This underscores the potential of the overhead squat movement as a valuable tool for both shoulder assessment and treatment.

School-aged children may benefit from education interventions focused on healthy eating and physical activity to improve their quality of life. This article aims to review scientific evidence on food and nutrition education (FNE) in Spanish-speaking countries for the prevention of overweight and obesity in school-aged children (6-12 y). Articles were searched between April and August 2021. The searches were conducted using MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and SciELO. The primary search for articles focused on the experience of FNE interventions in Spanish-speaking countries. Overall, 518 articles were found and 33 studies were eligible for data extraction. Forty-two percent of the studies had a focus on FNE and 64% were focused on describing the eating habits of schoolchildren. Nutritional assessments (anthropometric) were found frequently with 91% and 30% of the studies focused on physical activity. All interventions focused on preventing or reducing overweight and obesity in school-age children. Educational, cognitive, dietary, and physical activity practices were described, whit being educational the most frequent intervention. Interventions reported positive effects of FNE interventions to improve knowledge and practices of healthy lifestyles in school-age children.

In Mexico, the evaluations of environmental flows are regulated by the Mexican Norm NMX-AA-159-SCFI-2012 and they warrant the establishment of water reserves for the environment. Yet, the pressure for water use limits the establishment of said reserves. This research aimed to evaluate the changes through time of the variables that serve as a basis for the implementation strategy by the Mexican government. A geographical information system was built with updated variables, the desired conservation status was analyzed, and the potential reserves were estimated based on the reference values for all basins nationwide. The results were examined according to their historical, current, and potential contribution to the conservation of natural protected areas and their connectivity. The outcomes point towards an administrative implementation strategy with positive outcomes despite the growing pressure for water use, with a change rate higher than the one for the creation of new protected areas. Currently, basins with low pressure and high conservation value have the potential to contribute to 86–88% of the goal set by the present administration without affecting water availability. Finally, reserving water in the priority basins would guarantee the legal protection of the flow regime in 48–50% of the hydrographic network in a desired conservation status, 45–49% of wetlands of international importance, and other natural protected areas in 85–89% of the global ecoregions represented in Mexico.

Most systems that are the subject of control engineering studies have some non-linearity. An example of this is the horizontal cylindrical tank, commonly used in process industries. To deal with cases like this, several control theories have been developed over time, each one presenting better results in certain systems. This work presents an alternative for the control of nonlinear systems, without necessary modeling or previous information about the system, based on a new optimization law for the artificial neural network training in real time.

Various environmental, food security and population health problems seem to be related to intensive agriculture production worldwide. This type of food production system impacted the loss of biodiversity and natural habitats; high usage rates of agrochemicals and natural resources had affected soil composition, human health, and nutritional plant quality in rural areas. Intercropping agroecological systems that respect agrobiodiversity could significantly benefit ecosystems, human health, and food security by modifying the nutritional profile and the content of some health-promoting bioactive compounds of the species cultivated in this system. Research on intercropping strategies focuses on the benefits they can offer to ecosystems and less on nutrient plant composition, leaving information scattered when this theme should be more studied due to the critical impact it could provide for human nutrition. Therefore, this review aims to collect viable details on the investigation status of nutrients and bioactive compounds profile in intercropping systems by verifying different regions of the world with unique mixed crops using plant species, along with the criteria for combining them, as well as the nutrients and bioactive compounds analyzed to show what intercropping systems can contribute to food availability and quality.

Corneal biomechanics is a hot topic in ophthalmology. The biomechanical properties of the cornea (BMPs) have important implications in the management and diagnosis of corneal diseases such as ectasia and keratoconus. In addition, the characterization of BMPs is crucial to model the predictability of a corneal surgery intervention, the outcomes of refractive surgery or follow-up of corneal diseases. The biomechanical behavior of the cornea is governed by viscoelastic properties that allow, among other structural implications, the damping of excess of intraocular pressure and reduce damage to the optic nerve. Currently, the most versatile and complete methods to measure corneal viscoelasticity are based on air-puff corneal applanation. However, those methods lack the ability to directly measure corneal viscosity. The aim of this work is to propose a new methodology based on the analysis of corneal air-puff measurements through the Standard Linear Solid model (SLSM) to provide analytical expressions to separately calculate the elastic and time-dependent (corneal retardation time and viscosity) properties. The results shown the mean values of elasticity (E), viscosity (Ƞ) and corneal retardation time (τ) in a sample of 200 young and healthy subjects. The influence of elasticity and viscosity on viscoelasticity, high-order corneal aberrations and optical transparency is investigated. Finally, the SLSM fed back from experimental E and Ƞ values was employed to compare the creep-relaxation response between normal, an ocular hypertension patient and Ortho-K user.

The compatibility between the de Sitter Swampland conjecture and Ho\v{r}ava-Lifshitz $F(\bar{R})$ theories with a flat FLRW metric is studied. We first study the standard $f(R)$ theories and show that the only way in which the dS conjecture can be made independent of $R$ is by considering a power law of the form $f(R)\sim R^{\gamma}$. The conjecture and the consistency of the theory puts restrictions on $\gamma$ to be greater but close to $1$. For the $F(\bar{R})$ theories described by its two parameters $\lambda$ and $\mu$ we use the equations of motion to construct the function starting with an ansatz for the scale factor in the Jordan frame of the power law form. By doing a conformal transformation on the three metric to the Einstein frame we can obtain an action of gravity plus a scalar filed by relating the parameters of the theory. The non-projectable and projectable cases are studied and the differences are outlined. The $F(\bar{R})$ function obtained consists of terms of the form $\bar{R}^{\gamma}$ with the possibility of having negative power terms. The dS conjecture leads to inequalities for the $\lambda$ parameter, in both versions it gets restricted to be greater but close to $1/3$. For the general case in which $\mu$ and $\lambda$ are considered as independent, the action contains an extra term but we propose that the conjecture is still applicable. Once again the non-projectable and projectable cases are studied. The $F$ function obtained has the same form as before, the consistency of the theory and the dS conjecture lead to a set of inequalities on both parameters that are studied numerically. In all cases $\lambda$ is restricted by $\mu$ around $1/3$ and we obtain $\lambda\to1/3$ if $\mu\to0$. Finally we consider the $f(R)$ limit $\mu,\lambda\to1$ and we obtain consistent results.

The expansion of food production is getting more important due to a rising world population, which is relying on food security on a regional and local scale. Intensive food production systems create a negative impact on the regional ecosystem because of agrochemical pollution and nutrient rich water discharges into nearby rivers. Furthermore, these systems are highly depending on regional water resources causing water scarcity and soil erosion due to the overexploitation of natural resources in general. The objective of this article is to review the water usage in the two most water intensive food production systems, agriculture and aquaculture showing lacking areas, like system management and climate change, which must be considered in the implementation of sustainable water footprint. In addition, the review includes an analysis if the combination of both production system into aquaponic food production and the possibilities of water saving. There are a variety of water footprint analyses for crop and aquatic animal production, but there is also a lack of information about the system management including irrigation systems, system cleaning processes, water substitution, pond removal, evaporation due to climate change and especially in aquaculture, the water footprint of industrial elaborated fish feed.

Understanding how climatic variables impact the reference evapotranspiration (ET0) is essential for water resource management, especially considering potential fluctuations due to climate change. Therefore, we used the Sobol method to analyze the spatiotemporal variations of Penman-Monteith ETo sensitivity to the climatic variables: downward solar radiation, relative humidity, maximum and minimum air temperature, and wind speed. The Sobol’s indices variances were estimated by Monte Carlo integration, setting the sample limits to 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles of the daily data of 33 automatic weather stations located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The results of the Sobol analysis indicate considerable spatiotemporal variations in the sensitivity of ETo to climatic variables and their interactions. The dominant climatic variable responsible for ET0 fluctuations in Mato Grosso is incident solar radiation, which has a more significant impact in humid environments, as observed in the areas of the Amazon biome in the state. Air relative humidity and wind speed have higher sensitivity indices during the dry season in the areas of the Cerrado biome (Savanna) in Mato Grosso. Our findings show that changes in solar radiation, relative humidity, and wind speed cannot be ignored when analyzing changes in reference evapotranspiration.

Today, maritime transport is responsible for moving approximately 80 percent of the volume of world trade, which has favored Colombia, which, due to its geographical position, has managed to become one of the most competitive and dynamic economies in the world. South America. For this reason, this investigation is carried out in a port of their country, with the aim of identifying and analyzing restrictions or critical points that may cause delays in the unloading of goods, these would also cause delays in the loading of vehicles. To do this, it began with a diagnosis of the current situation through interviews with the operational personnel of the port, then a simulated model was designed in the ARENA software, in which it was observed that the weighing activities are where the queues were formed, this will cause a delay in the download. As possible solutions, it is recommended to senior management that a proper verification of the operation of the weighing equipment be carried out in order to unload goods more quickly. In addition, a replacement weighing equipment must be purchased. With this change, it would be possible to reduce inefficiencies or cost overruns caused by download delays, which are reducing the fluidity of the goods and the competitiveness of the organization

IgY antibodies are found in the blood and yolk of eggs. Several studies show the feasibility of utilising IgY for immunotherapy and immunodiagnosis. These antibodies have been studied because they fulfil the current needs for reducing, replacing, and improving the use of animals. Affinity and avidity represent the strength of the antigen-antibody interaction and directly influence antibody action. The aim of this review was to examine the factors that influence the affinity and avidity of IgY antibodies and the methodologies used to determine these variables. In birds, there are few studies on the maturation of antibody affinity and avidity and these studies suggest that the use of an adjuvant, type of antigen, strain of the animal, number of immunisations, and time interfere with the affinity and avidity of IgY antibodies. Regarding the methodologies, most studies use chaotropic agents to determine the avidity index. Studies involving solution phase and equilibrium titration reactions are also described. These results demonstrate the need for standardisation of methodologies for determination of affinity and avidity so that further studies can be performed to optimise the production of high avidity IgY antibodies.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected millions of lives globally, with some individuals experiencing persistent symptoms even after recovering. Understanding and managing the long-term sequelae of COVID-19 is crucial for research, prevention, and control. As a result, to monitor the health of individuals affected by these conditions, they must maintain up-to-date health records using digital health informatics apps for surveillance. In this review, we provide an overview of the existing literature on identifying long COVID manifestations through hierarchical classification and the characterization of long COVID by different hierarchical groups based on the Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO). We outline the aspects of the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) and Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) in artificial intelligence (AI) to identify long COVID. Knowledge exploration, using the concept map for the clinical pathways of long COVID presented in this paper, provides an overview of the data needed to explore tackling the long-term effect of COVID-19 by integrating innovative cohesive frameworks and designing health informatics-based applications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper to explore the potential incorporation of long COVID as a variable risk factor within a digital health informatics application.

Access to broadband communications in different parts of the world has become a priority for some governments and regulatory authorities around the world in recent years. Building new digital roads and pursuing a connected society includes looking for easier access to the Internet. In general, not all the areas where people congregate are fully covered, especially in rural zones, thus restricting access to data communications and bringing inequality. In the present review article, we have comprehensively surveyed the use of three platforms to deliver broadband services to such remote and low-income areas are proposed: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Altitude Platforms (APS), and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. These novel strategies support the connected and accessible world hypothesis. Hence UAVs are considered a noteworthy solution since their efficient maneuverability can aboard the rural coverage issues or not-spots.

The energy sector plays an important role in Mexico’s development trajectory. Mexico makes an interesting case study, because it shows how difficult it is to reduce fossil energy dependence despite geographic and climatic conditions that favour renewable energy deployment and use. Resolving path dependencies and the related carbon lock-in are key to Mexico’s sustainable energy transition. This case study aims to identify and discuss how carbon lock-in affects Mexico’s sustainable energy transition. Mexico’s carbon lock-in involves oil and oil-run power plants that are costly to build but relatively inexpensive to operate. This case study identifies potential entry points for transitioning towards sustainable energy in Mexico – resources that can promote the use of clean energy despite carbon lock-in. For example, focusing on electrification – particularly of the carbon-intensive sectors – can help Mexico transit towards sustainable energy despite institutional constraints. Complementing this case study is a teaching guide with recommendations for using Mexico’s energy transition in courses on sustainability. It introduces a “learning activation framework” to identify emerging opportunities that can advance sustainable energy transitions in different cases of carbon lock-in. Finally, the framework also gives students a chance to help dismantle or cope with carbon lock-ins.

This paper establishes methods that quantify the structure of statistical interactions within a given data set using the characterization of information theory in cohomology by finite methods, and provides their expression in terms of statistical physic and machine learning. Following [1–3], we show directly that k multivariate mutual-informations (I_k) are k-coboundaries. The k-cocycles are given by I_k = 0, which generalize statistical independence to arbitrary dimension k. The topological approach allows to investigate Shannon’s information in the multivariate case without the assumptions of independent identically distributed variables. We develop the computationally tractable subcase of simplicial information cohomology represented by entropy H_k and information I_k landscapes. The I₁ component defines a self-internal energy functional U_k, and (−1)^k I_k,k≥2 components define the contribution to a free energy functional G_k of the k-body interactions. The set of information paths in simplicial structures is in bijection with the symmetric group and random processes, provides a topological expression of the 2nd law and points toward a discrete Noether theorem (1st law). The local minima of free-energy, related to conditional information negativity and the non-Shannonian cone of Yeung [4], characterize a minimum free energy complex. This complex formalizes the minimum free-energy principle in topology, provides a definition of a complex system, and characterizes a multiplicity of local minima that quantifies the diversity observed in biology. Finite data size effects and estimation bias severely constrain the effective computation of the information topology on data, and we provide simple statistical tests for the undersampling bias and for the k-dependences following [5]. We give an example of application of these methods to genetic expression and cell-type classification. The maximal positive I_k identifies the variables that co-vary the most in the population, whereas the minimal negative I_k identifies clusters and the variables that differentiate-segregate the most. The methods unravel biologically relevant I₁₀ with a sample size of 41. It establishes generic methods to quantify the epigenetic information storage and a unified epigenetic unsupervised learning formalism.

Carukia barnesi (Cb), Malo kingi (Mk) and Chironex fleckeri (Cf) are dangerous Australian box jellyfish species that provoke distinct and not well understood envenomation syndromes. Specifically, Cb and Mk are small, rare and able to induce a systemic syndrome of generalised muscle pain and catecholamine excess termed “Irukandji syndrome”; Cf has been widely regarded as one of the most venomous organisms in the animal kingdom causing severe sting site pain combined with potentially lethal cardiotoxicity. Building on past studies of major chirodropid and carybdeid species venoms, this study compared the utility of various cubozoan specific antibody reagents to better define the relationships between venom proteins from both exemplar Irukandji species (Cb and Mk) and the archetype C. fleckeri box jellyfish. With the aid of commercial ovine derived Cf-specific antivenom, mouse antibodies reactive to Cb and Mk and rabbit antibodies specific to two Cf toxins (CfTX-1 and 2), as well as human sera, the cross-reactivity of jellyfish species-specific polyclonal antibodies against these three cubozoan venoms was investigated. Immunoblot assays revealed distinc levels of immune recognition across the three species, indicating that Mk specific reagents may bind both Irukandji and Cf venoms. Irukandji venom appears to be antigenic with the exception of a few proteins in the range of 43/46 kDa maybe homologous to CfTX-1 and 2. The implications of such antibody binding for future antivenom development require further investigation.

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are promising candidates in various biomedical applications such as sensors, imaging, and cancer therapy. Understanding the influence of AuNPs on lipid membranes is important to assure their safety in the biological environment and to improve their scope in nanomedicine. In this regard, the present study aims to analyze the effects of different concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2 w %) of dodecanethiol functionalized hydrophobic AuNPs on the structure and fluidity of zwitterionic 1-stearoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphocholine (SOPC) lipid bilayer membranes using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and fluorescent spectroscopy. The size of AuNPs was found to be 2.2 ± 1.1 nm using transmission electron microscopy. FTIR results have shown that the AuNPs induced a slight shift in methylene stretching bands, while the band positions of carbonyl and phosphate group stretching were unaffected. Temperature-dependent fluorescent anisotropy measurements have shown that the incorporation of AuNPs up to 2 w % did not affect the lipid order in membranes. Overall, these results indicate that the hydrophobic AuNPs in the studied concentration did not cause any significant alterations in the structure and membrane fluidity, which suggests the suitability of these particles to form liposome-AuNP hybrids for diverse biomedical applications including drug delivery and therapy.

The aim of this review is to provide a survey of the recent advances and the main remaining challenges related to the ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) nanowires and other nanostructures which exhibit excellent capability as the core components for many diverse novel sensing devices, due to the unique material properties and geometry advantages. The doping introduced in the gas phase during deposition promotes p-type or n-type conductivity. With the establishment of the UNCD nanofabrication techniques, more and more nanostructure based devices are being explored in measuring basic physical and chemical parameters via classic and quantum methods, as exemplified by gas sensors, ultraviolet photodetectors, piezoresistance effect based devices, biological applications, and nitrogen-vacancy color center based magnetic field quantum sensors. Highlighted finally are some of the remaining challenges and future outlook in this area.

The detection and enrichment of circulating melanoma cells is a challenge as the cells are very heterogeneous in terms of their biomechanical properties and surface markers. In addition, there is a lack of valid and reliable biomarkers that predict progress and therapeutic response. We here analyzed the elasticity of A375 melanoma cells applying force spectroscopy and a microfluidic method. To identify and eventually separate circulating tumor cells, it is crucial to precisely know their physical properties. First, we used standard AFM force spectroscopy, where the elasticity of the cells is calculated from indentation with a pyramidal tip. To extend the limits of measurement with a tip, we then used cantilevers without a tip to press on the cells over a large area. The resulting Young’s moduli are slightly lower and vary less without tip presumably because of the inhomogeneity of the cells. Finally, we implemented our microfluidic method. We measured single cell elasticity by analyzing its deformation in high-speed micrographs while passing a stenosis. Combining the force field and the change in shape provides the basis for a stress strain diagram. The results from microfluidic deformation analysis were in accordance with the results from force spectroscopy. The microfluidic method provides advantages over conventional methods, since it is less invasive and less likely to harm the cell during the measurement, and the whole cell is measured as one entity without contact to a stiff substrate, while force spectroscopy is limited to the contact area of the tip, and in some cases dependent of the cell substrate interaction. Consequently, microfluidic deformation analysis allows to predict the overall elastic behavior of the whole inhomogeneous cell in three-dimensional force fields. This method may contribute to improve the detection of circulation melanoma cells in the clinical practice.

Road dust resuspension, especially the particulate matter fraction below 10 µm (PM10), is one of the main air quality management challenges in Europe. Road dust samples were collected from representative streets (suburban and urban) of the city of Viana do Castelo, Portugal. PM10 emission factors (mg veh-1 km-1) ranging from 49 (asphalt) to 330 (cobble stone) were estimated by means of the United Stated Environmental Protection Agency method. Two road dust fractions (< 0.074 mm and from 0.0074 to 1 mm) were characterised for their geochemical, mineralogical and morphological properties. In urban streets, road dusts reveal the contribution from traffic emissions, with higher concentrations of e.g. Cu, Zn, and Pb. In the suburban area, agriculture practices likely contributed to As concentrations of 180 mg kg-1 in the finest road dust fraction. Samples are primarily composed of quartz, but also of muscovite, albite, kaolinite, microcline, Fe-enstatite, graphite and amorphous content. Particle morphology clearly shows the link with natural and traffic related materials, with well-formed minerals and irregular aggregates. The hazard quotient suggests a probability to induce non-carcinogenic adverse health effects in children by ingestion of Zr. Arsenic in the suburban street represents a human health risk of 1.58 x 10-4.

Elevated ammonium (NH4+) concentrations in untreated waterways contribute to eutrophication and dissolved oxygen depletion, which cause severe degradation of water quality. Ion exchange processes are a robust, low operational cost and efficient option for ammonium removal with zeolites being the most widely used. Geopolymers are a sustainable and low-cost option compared to zeolites that follows the same ion exchange technology. In the present study, a metakaolin-based porous geopolymer was synthetized, characterised and validated as adsorbent material. The laboratory batch tests showed a maximum adsorption capacity (Qm) of 18.35 mg/g being 27% higher than reference zeolites. Kinetics followed the Weber-Morris rate equation being the intraparticle diffusion the limiting process and continuous experiments indicated a maximum removal of 97% in the first hours. The material was validated in a wastewater treatment pilot plant where values in pH, electrical conductivity and NH4+ concentration were monitored. The obtained data indicated that the material achieved up to 80% NH4+ removal which is similar to traditional zeolites. The results demonstrate that this sustainable, low-cost and easy-to-install metakaolin-based geopolymer can be used effectively for NH4+ treatment.

This review seeks to explain four features of viral respiratory illnesses that have perplexed generations of virologists: (1) the seasonal timing of respiratory illness; (2) the common viruses causing respiratory illness worldwide, including year-round disease in the Tropics; (3) the rapid response of outbreaks to weather, specifically temperature; (4) the rapid arrival and termination of epidemics caused by influenza and other viruses. The inadequacy of the popular explanations of seasonality is discussed, and a simple hypothesis is proposed, called Temperature Dependent Viral Tropism (TDVT), that is compatible with the above features of respiratory illness. TDVT notes that viruses can transmit themselves more effectively if they moderate their pathogenicity (thereby maintaining host mobility) and suggests that endemic respiratory viruses accomplish this by developing thermal sensitivity within a range that supports organ-specific viral tropism within the human body, whereby they replicate most rapidly at temperatures below body temperature. This allows them to confine themselves to the upper respiratory tract and to avoid infecting the lungs, heart, gut etc. Biochemical and tissue-culture studies show that “wild” respiratory viruses show such natural thermal sensitivity. The typical early autumn surge of colds and the existence of respiratory illness in the Tropics year-round at intermediate levels are explained by the tendency for strains to adapt their thermal sensitivity to their local climate and season. The TDVT hypothesis has important practical implications for preventing and treating respiratory illness including Covid-19. TVDT is testable with many options for experiments to increase our understanding of viral seasonality and pathogenicity.

Abstract: The species composition, the structure of phytoplankton communities, hydrochemical parameters in the artificial cooling reservoir of one of the largest thermal power plants (TPP) in the north-east of Europe in the Pechora River basin, Komi Republic were studied in the ice-open period in June and August. Altogether 81 species of algae and cyanobacteria was revealed with the last one predominated. Among cyanobacteria and algae (Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta), indicators of water quality were found. Assessment of water quality according to the species composition and abundance of indicator phytoplankton species showed that the waters of the Pechorskoe Reservoir can be at-tributed to the III class of water quality, beta-mesosaprobic self-purification zone, with water quality of satisfactory purity, retaining the ability to self-purify. An increase in the diversity of plankton communities and high values of their abundance and biomass under the influence of the warming effect of TPP water outlet were noted and revealed its spatial distribution over the reservoir surface. The plankton of the northern reservoir under the influence of warm waters indicates a slight in-crease in the trophic status of the studied water body, which is also confirmed by the data of hydrochemical analysis. Ecological mapping for the chemical and biological variables as well as pollution indices over the water area of the reservoir was carried out. The results obtained can be used to make forecasts of changes in the phototrophic biota of small northern water bodies under the conditions of climate change.

This research explored the influence of spatiotemporal variations in phreatic levels and salinity on the patterns and interactions of soil mesofauna communities in a tropical urban coastal wetland. It delineated significant variations in phreatic levels and salinity, with distinct regimes characterizing different habitats and hydroperiods. A total of 120 mesofauna morphotypes across 42 taxa were identified, revealing habitat differences and similarities, and the ecosystem biodiversity. Moderate correlations were established between phreatic levels, salinity, and mesofauna richness and abundance, with habitat type and phreatic level emerging as significant predictors in the regression model. Our findings indicate that shallow phreatic levels in conjunction with oligohaline salinity conditions foster a more favorable abiotic environment, thereby promoting increased biodiversity. The study underscores the dynamic and adaptive nature of mesofauna communities in response to changing environmental conditions, offering valuable insights for effective costal urban wetland management, particularly in the context of multiple stressors such as global and regional climate change, sea level rise, and human activities. The bio-sensor capacity of soil mesofauna emerges as a vital tool for monitoring and facilitating adaptive ecosystem management, thereby ensuring their long-term health and sustainability.

In this article, we present two topics related to mathematical economics. We offer an intriguing proposal for securing cost and production functions in the face of uncertainty and risk. We discuss the relationship between individual and social preferences. This is important because traditional revealed preference theory does not account for such factors.

Pseudopterosin, produced by the sea whip of the genus Antillogorgia, possesses a variety of promising biological activities including potent anti-inflammatory effects. However, few studies examined pseudopterosin in the treatment of cancer cells and, to our knowledge, the ability to inhibit triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) proliferation or invasion has not been explored. Thus, we evaluated the as yet unknown mechanism of action of pseudopterosin: Pseudopterosin was able to inhibit proliferation of TNBC. Interestingly, analyzing breast cancer cell proliferation after knocking down glucocorticoid receptor α (GRα) revealed that anti-proliferative effects of pseudopterosin were significantly inhibited when GRα expression was reduced. Furthermore, pseudopterosin inhibited invasion of MDA-MB-231 3D tumor spheroids embedded in an extracellular-like matrix. Remarkably, the knockdown of GRα in 3D tumor spheroids revealed increased ability of cells to invade the surrounding matrix. In a co-culture, encompassing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and MDA-MB-231 cells, production of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) significantly increased compared to monoculture. Notably, pseudopterosin proved to block cytokine elevation, representing key players in tumor progression, in the co-culture. Thus, our results reveal pseudopterosin treatment as a potential novel approach in TNBC therapy.

The potential of digital twin technology is yet to be fully realised due to its diversity and untapped potential. Digital twins enable systems’ analysis, design, optimisation, and evolution to be performed digitally or in conjunction with a cyber-physical approach to improve speed, accuracy, and efficiency over traditional engineering methods. Industry 4.0, factories of the future, and digital twins continue to benefit from the technology and provide enhanced efficiency within existing systems. Due to the lack of information and security standards associated with the transition to cyber digitisation, cybercriminals have been able to take advantage of the situation. Access to a digital twin of a product or service is equivalent to threatening the entire collection. There is a robust interaction between digital twins and artificial intelligence tools, which leads to strong interaction between these technologies, so it can be used to improve the cybersecurity of these digital platforms based on their integration with these technologies. This study aims to investigate the role of artificial intelligence in providing cybersecurity for digital twin versions of various industries, as well as the risks associated with these versions. In addition, this research serves as a road map for researchers and others interested in cybersecurity and digital security.

Background: The popularity of climbing via ferratas (VF) in the European Alps has increased a lot. We have analysed the pattern of injuries from accidents, which have occurred on VF, and First Aid (FA) knowledge from the persons on such alpine routes. The aim was to create specific FA courses for those who climb VF. Material and Methods: Incidences and FA knowledge of the alpinists were investigated by a questionnaire. Data included details of the individual’s alpine experience, accidents or any kind of medical emergency they have ever experienced. FA knowledge was evaluated by 18 multiple choice questions with 5 answers each. The questionnaire was based on those of previous studies but was slightly adopted for VF. For this data from rescue operations on VF were used. Finally every participant was asked to judge his FA knowledge by a Likert scale (1 to 5). Results: The collective consisted of 391 participants (28.4% women) with an average age of 41 years. A significant portion did no regular fitness training and in most cases the last FA training was years ago. Nobody had joined a specific FA course for climbers or mountaineers. The most common causes of emergencies were: weather conditions (19%), stumble (18.6%), falls (13.4%), and weariness and deficiency in concentration (13.4%). FA questions most often answered correctly were cardiac emergencies (49.6%), high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) (43.2%), snow blindness (40.9%), injuries of the head (37.1%) and hemorrhagic shock (35.3%). Those most often wrong were injuries of the back (1.0%), injuries of the thorax (2.8%), frostbite (9.0%), acute mountain sickness (AMS) (4.1%) and strategy of rescue (4.1%). VF climbers show significant less FA knowledge than mountaineers in the Western Alps and trekkers. Conclusions: Data support the need of a specific FA training for VF climbers. Their FA knowledge does not fit with the demands in the mountains while some other knowledge they have is negligible on VFs (e.g. HACE). This is in accordance with earlier studies in “classic” alpine mountaineering and in trekking.

Aiming the characterization of road dusts on the surrounding villages of an active mine and to assess metal(loids) bioaccessible fractions, a dust samples survey was undertaken. To achieve these objectives, pseudototal element concentration, mineralogical composition, Enrichment factor and in vitro extraction UBM assay for both gastric (G) and gastrointestinal (GI) phases, were determined. Results obtained revealed that arsenic represents the higher risk to humans, with mean pseudototal values higher than the maximum reference value range. Enrichment factor points to As significant to very high enrichment in all villages. Particles enriched in As, Ca, Fe, Cu, Al, Ti were identified by SEM-EDS in weathered agglomerates, linked to mine wastes and long-distance transport, both by wind and/or traffic. Arsenic bioaccessibility fraction (%BAF) presents low values in the studied samples, possibly due to low Fe complexes solubility with adsorbed As, limiting arsenic release and reducing its bioaccessibility. Concentrations of Cd bioaccessible G and GI phases are within the reference values range, while for Cu are above and for Pb are lower, than reference value range. Results show that the pseudototal fraction risk is overestimated when comparing to BAF (bioaccessible fraction), nevertheless, total G and GI risk are above the carcinogenic target risk (1.00E-06) in most samples. Carcinogenic risk of the bioaccessible contaminants shows that As is the element that represents higher risk for developing cancer over a lifetime, being ingestion the main risk route.

The state estimation for lithium-ion battery cells has been the topic of many publications concerning the different states of a battery cell. They often focus on a battery cell’s state of charge (SOC) or state of health (SOH). Therefore this paper introduces a, on one hand, a new lithium-ion battery data set with dynamic validation data over degradation and on the other hand a model-based SOC and SOH estimation based on this dataset as a reference. An unscented Kalman filter-based approach was used for SOC estimation and extended with a holistic ageing model to handle the SOH estimation. The paper describes the dataset, the models, the parameterisation, the implementation of the state estimations, and their validation using parts of the dataset resulting in a SOC and SOH estimation over battery life. The results show that the dataset can be used to extract parameters, design models based on it and validate with dynamically degraded battery cells.

The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increases in some healthcare-associated infections. We investigated the impact of the pandemic on rates and molecular epidemiology of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) within one VA Hospital. We anticipated that the potential widespread use of antibiotics for pneumonia during the pandemic might increase CDI rates given that antibiotics are a major risk for CDI. Hospital data on patients with CDI and recurrent CDI (rCDI) were reviewed pre-COVID-19 pandemic (2015 to 2019) and during the pandemic (2020 - 2021). Restriction endonuclease analysis (REA) strain typing was performed on CD isolates recovered from stool samples collected from 10/2019 – 3/2022. CDI case numbers declined 43.2% in 2020 – 2021 compared to the annual mean over the previous 5 years. Stool test positivity rate was also lower during the COVID-19 pandemic (14.3% vs. 17.2%; P = 0.013). Although inpatient volume declined, rates of CDI among inpatients were reduced by 34.2% in 2020 – 2021. Mean monthly cases of rCDI also declined significantly after 2020 [3.38 (95% CI: 2.89 – 3.87) vs. 1.92 (95% CI: 1.27 – 2.56); P = &lt;0.01]. Prior to the pandemic, REA group Y was the most prevalent CD strain among the major REA groups (27.3%). During the first wave of the pandemic from March 8, 2020, through June 30, 2020, there was an increase in the relative incidence of REA group BI (26.7% vs. 9.1%. After adjusting for CDI risk factors, a multivariable logistic regression model revealed that odds of developing an REA group BI CDI increased during the first pandemic wave (OR 6.41, 95% CI: 1.03 – 39.91) compared to the pre-pandemic period. In conclusion, the incidence of CDI and rCDI decreased significantly during the initial waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, REA BI (Ribotype 027), a virulent, previously epidemic CD strain and frequently associated with hospital transmission and outbreaks, reappeared as a prevalent strain during the first wave of the pandemic.

The implementation of residential distributed generation (DG) in South America has shown significant growth in the last decade, driven by increased research on photovoltaics and renewable energy sources. Regulatory policies and business models have been crucial in fostering the adoption of DG in the region, with residential self-supply being the most receptive sector for implementing the concept. This article presents a literature review on DG as applied to residential self-supply in South America by comprehensively analyzing documents published between 2013 and 2023, applying the PRISMA methodology. In total, 37 literature resources have been systematically selected and reviewed to contribute to the identification of trends and developments in the field of DG in the residential sector, as well as highlighting areas that require further research and attention from stakeholders, including policymakers, investors, technology providers and consumers in the South American context.

A two-factor account has been proposed as an explanatory model for the formation and maintenance of delusions. The first factor refers to a neurocognitive process leading to a significant change in subjective experience; the second factor has been regarded as a failure in hypothesis evaluation characterized as an impairment of metacognitive ability. This study was focused on the assessment of metacognition in patients with schizophrenia. The aims of the study were to measure the overconfidence in metacognitive judgments through the prediction of word list recall; and to analyze the correlation between basic neurocognition: memory and executive function and metacognition through a metamemory test and the severity of psychotic symptoms. Method: 51 participants with diagnosis the of Schizophrenia were evaluated. The PANNS was used to assess the severity of psychiatric symptoms and the subtest of Metamemory included in the BANFE Battery was used to evaluate overconfidence and underestimations errors, intrusion and perseverative response, and total volume of recall. Results. The strongest correlation are observed between overconfidence errors and the positive factor of the PANSS (r= 0.774, p

We investigated the liquid water path and global solar irradiance at ground (Q) according to the ICON model, CLOUDNET measurements in Lindenberg, Munich, Jülich, and BSRN observations in Lindenberg. The liquid water path is underestimated, while global irradiance is overestimated. The lower liquid water path is due to liquid water content underestimation practically in all atmosphere layers and lower frequency of liquid clouds occurrence compare to observations. The latter is partly associated with a reduced model’ sensitivity to the cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). An increase in CCN from 250 cm-3 (typical background value for the region of interest) to 1700 cm-3 (characteristic of polluted continental clouds) leads to an increase in grid-scale liquid water path by 40% and a decrease in Q under overcast conditions by 12%. However, we also showed that liquid water path is not a key factor of Q overestimation. The main factor is an inaccurate description of the cloud spatial structure, where the correct prediction of the direct to global irradiance ratio as a spatial characteristic of clouds plays the most important role compared to standard cloud fraction.

Globally, increasing rates of obesity are one of the most important health issues. The association between breakfast skipping and body weight is contradictory between cross-sectional and interventional studies. The systematic review and meta-analyses aim to summarize this association based on observational longitudinal studies. We included prospective studies on breakfast skipping and overweight/obesity or weight change in adults. Literature was searched until September 2020 in PubMed and Web of Science. Summary RRs with a 95% CI were estimated in pairwise meta-analyses by applying a random-effects model. In total, 9 studies were included in the systematic review and 6 of them were included in the meta-analyses. The meta-analysis indicated an 13% increased RR for overweight/obesity when breakfast was skipped on ≥ 3 days per week compared to ≤ 2 days per week (95% CI: 1.06, 1.21, n=3 studies). The meta-analysis on weight change displays a 21% increased RR for weight gain for breakfast skippers compared to breakfast eaters (95% CI: 1.05, 1.40, n=2 studies). The meta-analysis on BMI change displayed no difference between breakfast skipping and eating (RR=1.02, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.05, n=2 studies). This study provides low meta-evidence for an increased risk for overweight/obesity and weight gain for breakfast skipping.

_{he present study was conducted to quantify the heavy metals cadmium, lead, copper, chromium, nickel, and zinc in the bivalve mollusk concha prieta (Anadara tuberculosa) using in- ductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). This research aims to identify whether the bioaccumulate content of heavy metals exceeds the maximum limits established by various public health bodies such as the ONU, FAO, Codex Alimentarius, EEC, and NHI. Samples of the species were collected randomly from three locations in Puerto El Morro, Playas Municipal Market, and La Libertad Seafood Market in the Gulf of Guayaquil. Thirty-three soft tissue samples of (Anadara tuberculosa) were evaluated, and the values quantified in mg/kg were in the following order: Zn>Cu>Cd>Ni>Cr>Pb.}

Abstract: This study aims to analyze the physico-mechanical properties and dynamic models of tissue-simulating hydrogels, specifically the photoacoustic (PA) response signals, by varying the concentrations of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and molecular weight (MW). A state space model (SSM) is proposed to study the PVA hydrogels to retrieve the PA-related signal's damping ratio and nat-ural frequency. Nine box-shaped PVA hydrogels containing saline solution were used, with five concentrations of PVA (7, 9, 12, 15, 20%) for MW1 and four for MW2. The results indicated that the concentration of PVA and MW played an important role in the PA wave's amplitude, arrival time, and speed of sound over the hydrogels. The SSM parameters showed that increasing PVA and MW concentrations improved the hydrogels' ability to absorb and transfer energy under the PA effect. These parameters were also found to be correlated with density and modulus of elasticity. Addi-tionally, the concentrations of PVA and MW affected the absorption and optical scattering coeffi-cients. The physical-mechanical properties, including porosity, density, and modulus of elasticity, improved as the concentration of PVA and MW increased. The ultimate goal of this study is to develop hydrogels as phantoms that can be used for tissue simulation and imaging.

Objectives: In this retrospective observational study, it is intended to establish how the implementation of the use of antimicrobial optimization programs at the hospital and ICU level in a Sincelejo Sucre Clinic has significantly impacted the improvement of the rational use of antibiotics1, due to the alarming situation of increasing antibiotic resistance. Materials and methods: The methodology used was to analyze the Excel database of the Clinic, in such a way that it would allow comparing the pre-PROA and post-PROA data of 4 antibiotics, ceftriaxone3, ciprofloxacin4, meropenem5 and vancomycin6, measured in Daily Dose. defined. Results: According to the DDD values obtained for the 4 antibiotics, a reduction in DDD was identified in the post-Proa period. On the other hand, considering the DDD reported by the WHO for each of the antibiotics, significant differences were verified compared to the DDD obtained in the clinic in the hospitalization and ICU services. Conclusions: In conclusion, in the clinic there was evidence of a reduction in DDD in the post-ASP2 period compared to the pre-PROA period, both in hospitalization and in the ICU, as well as a slight to large effect with Cohen's D.

In this paper we investigate some properties of square-free numbers. In particular, we study a function that counts the number of square-free numbers no larger than the given number n. We show that this function has asymptotics consistent with the predictions of the Riemann hypothesis and use this to obtain new and better estimates of the density of square-free numbers. Finally, we present a well-known generalization of the concept of a square-free number to monoids and research on square-free factorizations.

This study was conducted to investigate bit use in equestrian sports, focusing on welfare and performance as bit use has been subject of debate. The multi-faceted study combines a literature review, survey, and video analyses. Research on physiological and behavioral effects of bit use, discussing concerns and benefits, was evaluated. The survey involved 250 equestrians, gathering data on experiences, opinions, and practices regarding bit usage. Results demonstrate that different bits are used during competitions and that riders prioritize factors like horse satisfaction, consistent connection, and chewing behavior when riding at home, while show use focusses on factors like control. Video analyses showed high conformity between veterinary expert and show jumper, indicating reliability and validity. Pelham and loose ring bits were most used, while 3-ring and full cheek bits were associated with the most aversive movements, particularly opening of the mouth. Other defense movements included putting ears back, tail swishing, and head tilting. The study highlighted the need for understanding bit preferences in various settings and cautioned against generalizing bit usage based solely on show observations. It also emphasized the potential for developing new designs that prioritize horse comfort and responsiveness, to enhance communication and partnership between horses and riders.

Fogo (Fogo island, Cape Verde Republic) is the youngest and most active volcano of the archipelago. The last eruption occurred in 2014–2015. Aiming at studying dust emissions and transport during the eruption period and assessing their impact on air quality and human health, a mineralogical and chemical characterization was undertaken in outdoor dust from all over the island, as well as in the lava resulting from this event. Air quality monitors were used to obtain concentrations of atmospheric particulate matter (PM) and gaseous pollutants. The mineralogical constitution of the samples was analysed by X-ray diffraction and Electron Microprobe, while the chemical characterization was performed through X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry and ICP-MS. The volcanic rock was found to be tephritic to basanitic, with high potassium content. Several minerals were identified, such as titanian augite with ilmenite, basaltic hornblendes, pyrrhotites, apatites, pyroxenes, basaltic hornblendes and hematites. Concentrations of the particulate matter inhalable fraction (PM10) exceeded the 24-hour mean of 50 µg/m3 recommended by the World Health Organization. Nevertheless, total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) showed levels lower than the worrying range. The highest levels of CO2 were recorded in more populated villages and farthest from the volcano. The Pollution Load Index (PLI) for outdoor dust collected on rooftops was always above 1, suggesting enrichment, with higher values in the dust size fraction < 63 µm. In the same way, the Contamination Factor pointed to high enrichment of As, Ni and Pb, and very high enrichment of Cd in the same size fraction. The Non-carcinogenic Hazard Quotient and Hazard Index estimated for Children suggest that health problems may arise. The Carcinogenic Risk, for all size fractions, was above the target risk. The element that most contributed to the global risk was As, followed by Pb and Co. Ingestion was the main exposure route for all size fractions. The dust size fraction that represented the highest risk was < 63 µm, mostly due to the As concentration.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) purport to report holistically on progress towards sustainability and do so using more than 231 discrete indicators with a primary objective to achieve a balance between the environment, social and economic aspects of development. The research question underpinning the analyses presented in this paper is: are the indicators in the SDGs sufficient and fit-for-purpose to assess the trajectory of natural resources towards sustainability? We extracted the SDG indicators that monitor the state of natural resources, or alternately support policy or governance for their protection, and determined if these are adequate to provide the essential data on natural resources to achieve the aims of the SDGs. The indicators are clustered into four natural resource categories; land, water (both marine and freshwater), air and biodiversity. Indicators for monitoring land resources show that the most comprehensive land resource indicator, for degraded land, is not fully implemented and that missing from land monitoring is an evaluation of vegetation health outside of forests and mountains, the condition of soils, and most importantly the overall health of terrestrial ecosystems. Indicators for monitoring water resources have substantial gaps, unable to properly monitor water quality, water stress, many aspects of marine resources and most significantly, the health of fresh and salt water ecosystems. Indicators for monitoring of air have recently become more comprehensive, but linkage to IPCC results would benefit both programmes. Monitoring of biodiversity is perhaps the greatest weakness of the SDG Agenda, having no comprehensive assessment even though narrow aspects are monitored. Again, deliberate linkages to other global biodiversity programmes (e.g. CBD and the Post 2020 Biodiversity Framework; IPBES; Living Planet, etc.) are recommended on condition that data can be defined at a country level. While the SDG list of indicators in support of natural resource is moderately comprehensive, it lacks holistic monitoring in relation to evaluation of ecosystems and biodiversity to the extent that these missing but vital measures of sustainability threaten the entire SDG Agenda. In addition, an emerging issue is that even where there are appropriate indicators, the amount of country-level data remains inadequate to fully evaluate sustainability. This signals the delicate balance between the extent and complexity of the SDG Agenda and uptake at a country level

Climate change is one of the main issues that humanity is currently facing due to carbon dioxide emissions caused by the use of fossil fuels. Organic Rankine cycles may play an important role in reducing these emissions since they can be operated by using industrial waste heat of renewable energies. The present study presents a comprehensive bibliographic review of organic Rankine cycles. The study not only actualizes previous reviews that mainly focused on basic cycles operating on subcritical or supercritical conditions but also includes the analysis of novel cycles such as two-stage and hybrid cycles and the used fluids. Recuperative and regenerative cycles are more efficient than reheated and basic single-stage cycles. The use of two-stage cycles makes it possible to achieve higher thermal efficiencies and net power outputs of up to 20% and 44%, respectively, compared with those obtained with single-stage cycles. Theoretical studies show that hybrid systems, including Brayton and organic Rankine cycles, are the most efficient; however, they require very high temperatures to operate. Most organic Rankine cycle plants produce net power outputs from 1 kW up to several tens of kW, mainly using microturbines and plate heat exchangers.

Background. COVID-19 efforts were often ineffective in controlling the spread of the pandemic. Identifying ineffective controls during a pandemic is thus vital. Method. Utilizing publicly available data on COVID deaths in the counties of US states, we create an index to capture and interpret ineffectiveness in the efforts to reduce the spread of the pandemic in US counties. This index is based on the Intervened Poisson Distribution (IPD) introduced originally by Shanmugam. Motivation for the research idea occurred while we noticed the data dispersion of the COVID deaths is smaller than the average only in some counties. Under-dispersed data is common in statistical modeling. A novel approach we adapted in this article includes the estimation of an intervention parameter estimated through iterative non-linear optimization. Results. Twenty-five counties in California, Idaho, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Texas, and Utah were found to be ineffective in controlling for fatalities based on the expected probability distribution. A review of the policies enacted in these areas would provide insight into ineffective prevention efforts, and some of these issues are documented in current literature. Conclusion. The IPD index an innovate way to document efficacy of interventions during pandemics. The IPD may identify ineffective efforts prior to statistical models intended to evaluate efficacy of efforts.

Advancements in Parametric Design, Generative Design, and automation in Building Information Modelling (BIM) have opened new opportunities for architects and engineers working on complex buildings, such as offices. These developments allow designers to enhance their designs, increase project efficiency, improve performance, and reduce project time and costs. To address conflicting objectives that arise during the design process, genetic algorithms with multi-objective optimization (MOO) have been employed in architectural design. The GENIUS project aims to optimize building shape, apertures, and shading systems in the concept and design stages, with a focus on energy and daylight performance. The project integrates BIM and visual programming tools with Artificial Intelligence techniques like Genetic Algorithms and RBFOpt model-based optimization. Optimization algorithms are used to identify the best solutions that meet all design objectives, helping architects optimize their designs and achieve desired outcomes. The workflow was tested on a case study of a large office building, with MOO focused on maximizing daylight performance using Spatial Daylight Autonomy metric and minimizing energy consumption using Energy Use Intensity metric. The project provides architects with a method to improve their designs using Algorithm Aided Design tools, which help identify the best solutions for complex design problems.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral genome is an RNA virus consisting of approximately 30,000 bases. As part of testing efforts, whole genome sequencing of human isolates has resulted in over 1,600 complete genomes publicly available from GenBank. We have performed a comparative phylogenetic analysis of the sequences, in order to detect common mutations within the population. Analysis of variants occurring within the assembled genomes yields 417 variants occurring in at least 1% of the completed genomes, including 229 within the 5’ untranslated region (UTR), 152 within the 3’UTR, 2 within intergenic regions and 34 within coding sequences.

The neural-crest derived enteric nervous system (ENS) is the intrinsic nervous system of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and controls all gut functions, including motility. Lack of ENS neurons causes various ENS disorders such as Hirschsprung Disease. One treatment option for ENS dis-orders includes the activation of resident stem cells to regenerate ENS neurons. Regeneration in the ENS has mainly been studied in mammalian species using surgical or chemically-induced injury methods. These mammalian studies showed a variety of regenerative responses with generally limited regeneration of ENS neurons, but (partial) regrowth and functional recovery of nerve fibers. Several aspects might contribute to the variety in regenerative responses, including observation time after injury, species, and gut region targeted. Zebrafish have recently emerged as a promising model system to study ENS regeneration as larvae possess the ability to generate new neurons after ablation. As the next steps in ENS regeneration research, we need a detailed under-standing of how regeneration is regulated on a cellular and molecular level both in animal models with high and low regenerative capacity. Understanding the regulatory programs necessary for robust ENS regeneration will pave the way for using neural regeneration as a therapeutic approach to treating ENS disorders.

(1) Background: Applied health services research (AHSR) relies upon coordination across multiple organizational boundaries. Our aim was to understand how competing organizational and professional goals enhance or impede the conduct of high quality AHSR. (2) Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in two local health care systems in the UK, linked to a feasibility trial of a clinic-based intervention in secondary care. Data collection involved 24 semi-structured interviews with research managers, clinical research staff, health professionals, and patients. (3) Results: This study required a dynamic network of interactions between heterogeneous health and social care stakeholders, each characterized by differing ways of organizing activities which constitute their core functions; cultures of collaboration and interaction and understanding of what research involves and how it contributes to patient care. These interrelated factors compounded the occupational and organizational boundaries that hindered communication and coordination. (4) Conclusions: Despite the strategic development of multiple organizations to foster inter-professional collaboration, the competing goals of research and clinical practice can impede the conduct of high quality AHSR. To remedy this requires the alignment and streamlining of organizational goals, so that all agencies involved in AHSR develop a shared understanding and mutual respect for the progress of evidence-based medicine and the complex and often nuanced environments in which it is created and practiced.

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

If a subject learns about the properties of an alternative under a high state of food deprivation, it will prefer this alternative over a similar one in a later choice test, although the subject is currently under a relative state of satiety. In this experiment, we probe this effect in a delay-discounting task, where the reward of the experienced alternative is progressively delayed. Eight male Wistar rats were trained to respond to an alternative under a high state of deprivation and eight rats under a relative state of satiety. After 20 sessions, their weight was recalibrated to a state of relative satiety. Then, they were exposed to a delay-discounting task where the long-larger alternative was the one used during training. The group that experienced the alternative under a higher level of food deprivation preferred more this alternative, and its preference stayed across time. On the contrary, the group that experienced the alternative under a lower level of food deprivation systematically preferred the small-shorter alternative. Our results support that the reinforcement value may be sensitive to the organism's state at the moment an alternative is experienced for the first time.

Steel is one of the essential materials in the world's civilization. It is essential to produce many products such as pipelines, mechanical elements in machines, vehicles, profiles, and beam sections for buildings in many industries. Until the '50s of the 20th century, steel products required a complex process known as ingot casting; for years, steelmakers focused on developing and simplifying this process. The result was the con-tinuous casting process (CCP); it is the most productive method to produce steel. The CCP allows producing significant volumes of steel sections without interruption and is more productive than the formal ingot casting process. The CCP begins by transferring the liquid steel from the steel-ladle to a tundish. This tundish or vessel distributes the liquid steel, by flowing through its volume, to one or more strands having wa-ter-cooled copper molds. The mold is the primary cooling system, PCS, solidifying a steel shell to withstand a liquid core and its friction forces with the mold wall. Further down the mold, the rolls drive the steel section in the SCS. Here the steel section is cooled, solidifying the remaining liquid core, by sprays placed in every cooling segment all around the billet and along the curved section of the machine. Finally, the steel strand goes towards a horizontal-straight free-spray zone, losing heat by radiation mechanism, where the billet cools down further to total solidification. A moving torch cutting-scissor splits the billet to the desired length at the end of this heat-radiant zone.

High blood cholesterol levels are one of the main risks for atherosclerotic disease. A purified aqueous extract of Fucus vesiculosus, characterized as rich in phlorotannins and peptides, was described as having the capacity to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis and intestinal absorption. In this work, the effect of this extract on intestinal cells metabolites and proteins was analysed, aiming to expand the knowledge about its mode of action targeting cholesterol metabolism, in particular exogenous cholesterol absorption and transport. Caco-2 cells differentiated into enterocytes were exposed to the purified aqueous extract of F. vesiculosus and analysed by undirected metabolomics and proteomics. The results of the metabolomic analysis showed only statistically significant differences in glutathione content of the cells exposed to the extract relatively to the control cells, with a decreased glutathione expression in exposed cells. The proteomic analysis showed an increased expression for cells exposed to the extract of NPC1, an important protein known to be involved in cholesterol transport. To extent of our knowledge this is the first study using untargeted metabolomics and proteomic analysis to study the effect of F. vesiculosus on differentiated Caco-2 cells, which aims to provide some insight about the molecular mechanism of extract compounds on intestinal cells.

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in government restrictions that altered the lifestyle of people worldwide. Studying the impact of these restrictions on exercise behaviors will improve our understanding of environmental factors that influence individuals’ PA. We conducted a retrospective analysis using an index of government pandemic stringency developed by Oxford and a wearable device for runners to compare strictness of lockdowns and exercise habits, using digitally-logged PA data from more than 7,000 runners on a global scale. Additionally, time-of-day of PA globally and levels of PA in 14 countries are compared between the pre-pandemic year of 2019 and the first pandemic year of 2020. We found that during the pandemic the time-of-day that people exercised experienced a major shift, with significantly more activities logged during standard working hours on workdays (p<0.001) and fewer during the same time frame on weekends (p<0.001). Of the countries examined, Italy and Spain had among the most strict lockdowns and suffered the largest decreases in activity counts, whereas France experienced a minimal decrease in activity counts despite enacting a similarly strict lockdown. This study suggests that there are several factors affecting PA, including government policy, workplace policy, and cultural norms.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is experiencing exponential growth, revolutionizing various industries with its ability to connect devices and enable advanced applications. In the realm of energy production, IoT offers significant potential for optimizing processes and improving efficiency. This study presents a comprehensive monitoring and energy management strategy for the University of Cuenca's microgrid photovoltaic (PV) system, utilizing IoT and ThingSpeak as key technologies. The proposed strategy leverages intelligent environments and utilizes ThingSpeak as a robust platform for data presentation and analysis. By integrating IoT devices and sensors, real-time monitoring of PV system parameters such as solar radiation and temperature is achieved. The collected data is then analyzed using advanced algorithms and visualized through ThingSpeak, enabling effective energy management and decision-making. The developed monitoring system was rigorously tested in a laboratory microgrid setting, where the PV system is interconnected with other generation and storage systems, as well as the electrical grid. Through the seamless integration of these components, the monitoring system provides enhanced visibility and control over the microgrid's energy production. The results demonstrate the successful implementation of the monitoring system, showcasing its ability to improve the supervision, automation, and analysis of daily energy production. By leveraging IoT technologies and ThingSpeak, stakeholders can access real-time data, analyze performance trends, and optimize energy resources.

Ammonia known as harmful gas that could impact on health and environment. Typically, ammonia gas emitted by fertilizer industry, rubber factory, etc. There are many options for advance industry to control ammonia gas pollution, absorption tower using water scrubber and using activated carbon as adsorption reaction could be an option. But for middle- and lower-class industry, it is common in Indonesia, as seen on many rubber factories, ammonia gas pollution is serious problem to control, actually they have used wet scrubber but eficiency is lower about 47%. This study measure performance for ammonia elimination as gas pollutant using absorption tower and adsorption tower in laboratory scale. Using electrochemical gas sensor, we measure both ammonia concentration for inlet and outlet simultaneously to settle saturation point of these two types of ammonia emission control. In conclusion, Ammonia absorbed in water proportional to saturation time and absorbent volume. Highest absorbed ammonia concentration 1.538 mg/L on 4000 mL absorbent. For Adsorption system, saturation time proportional and correlated to adsorbent weight and Adsorption capacity reverse correlated to adsorbent weight. Optimum adsorption point can be achieved from intersection curve between saturation time and adsorption capacity which is 1200 grams adsorbent

Seaweeds, notably cochayuyo (Durvillaea incurvata), are recognized for their rich macro- and micronutrient content, along with their inhibitory effects on the α-glucosidase enzyme. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this inhibition in actual starchy food products under in vitro gastrointestinal conditions. The study utilized freeze-dried cochayuyo, extracted using hot pressurized liquid extraction with 50% ethanol at 120 C and 1500 psi. The inhibition mechanism of α-glucosidase was determined, and the polyphenol composition of the extract was analyzed using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. The study further evaluated the extract’s impact on starch digestibility, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity in noodles as representative starchy food under gastrointestinal conditions. The results indicate that the α-glucosidase inhibition mechanism is mixed. Phenolic compounds, primarily tetraphloroethol, could contribute to this anti-enzymatic activity. The extract was observed to decrease starch digestibility, indicated by a lower rate constant (0.0158 vs. 0.0261 min-1) and digested starch at an infinite time (77.4 vs. 80.5 g/100 g). A significant increase (~1200 vs. ~390 µmol TROLOX/100 g) in antioxidant activity was also noted during digestion when the extract was used. Thus, the study suggests that the cochayuyo extract can reduce starch digestion and enhance antioxidant capacity under gastrointestinal conditions.

The goal was to model the irrigated (IBY) and rainfed (RBY) bean yields, as a function of essential climatic variables (ECVs), in the center (Culiacán) and south (Rosario) from Sinaloa. In Sinaloa, and for the period 1982–2013 (October–March), the following were calculated: a) temperatures. b) average degree days for the bean, c) cumulative potential evapotranspiration and d) cumulative effective precipitation. For ECVs, from the European Space Agency, e) daily soil moisture. f) IBY and RBY, from the Agrifood and Fisheries Information Service. Multiple linear regressions were applied, which modeled IBY–RBY (dependent variables), as a function of ECVs (independent variables). Then, to establish each Pearson correlation (PC) as significantly different from zero, a hypothesis test was applied: PC vs Pearson's critical correlation (CPC). The four models obtained were significantly predictive: IBY–Culiacán (PC = 0.590 > CPC = |0.349|), RBY–Culiacán (PC = 0.734 > CPC = |0.349|), IBY–Rosario (PC = 0.621 > CPC = |0.355|) and RBY–Rosario (PC = 0.532 > CPC = |0.349|). This study is the first in Sinaloa to predict IBY and RBY based on ECVs, contributing to the production of sustainable food.

Microbiocontrol of Mycogone perniciosa is focused on casing soil antagonists use. Since no industrial producer strains of polyfunctional biologics were used in previous studies, research goal was to characterize Bacillus subtilis B-10 and M-22 effect on mycopathogen and reveal its control possibilities. Interactions between producer strains and M. perniciosa were evaluated using well method and spraying. Mycoparasite colony area and its lysis zone were determined. Biological efficacy was characterized by lysis zone proportion in total area occupied by the micromycete mycelium. Statistical processing included W-test, ANOVA, means (M) and standard errors (±SEM) calculation. The significance was assessed by t-test. M. perniciosa development suppressing by producer strains was established, indicates a prolonged B-10 and M-22 effect on mycopathogen. High biological efficacy of both strains at the early stages of mycopathogen development by introducing into the wells and spraying was shown: B-10 – 50.9–99.6 % and M-22 – 57.5–99.2 % respectively (p ≤ 0.05). Significant differences between producer strains were not revealed, although during the first exposure day to developed M. perniciosa colonies M-22 has shown greater activity. Preventive treatment high efficiency when producer strains completely suppressed mycoparasite development, permit recommending them both to introduce when preparing casing for M. perniciosa control.

Cartilage development is a tightly regulated process that involves multiple molecules and signaling pathways. The loss of expression of a single gene can alter cell behavior and disrupt the development of the cartilage. Col11a1 encodes the alpha one chain of the minor fibrillar collagen type XI that is essential in skeletal development. We used an RNAi mediated knockdown approach to investigate the role of Col11a1 expression during chondrogenesis in ATDC5 cells. Col11a1 expression promotes the transition of mesenchymal cells to the chondrogenic phenotype, and reduction of Col11a1 expression interferes with cellular differentiation. Our results indicate that collagen α1(XI) protein is required for chondrocyte cell shape, matrix production, mineralization and gene expression through a mechanism that involves AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin and TCF/LEF activity in ATDC5 cells.

Macrophages as a source and target of GDF-15

Consistent calibration and monitoring is a basic prerequisite for providing reliable time series of global and regional sea level variations from altimetry. The precision of sea level measurements and regional biases for six altimeter missions (Jason-1/2/3, Envisat, Saral, Sentinel-3A) is assessed at eleven GNSS-controlled tide gauge stations in the German Bight (SE North Sea) for the period 2002 to 2019. The gauges are partly located at the open water, partly at the coast close to mudflats. The altimetry is extracted at virtual stations with distances from 2 to 24 km from the gauges. The processing is optimized for the region and adjusted for the comparison with instantaneous tide gauges readings. An empirical correction is developed to account for mean height gradients and slight differences of the tidal dynamics between gauge and altimetry which improves the agreement between the two data sets by 15-75%. The precision of the altimeters is depending on location and mission and is shown to be at least 1.8 to 3.7 cm based on an assumed precision of 2 cm for the gauges. The accuracy of the regional mission biases is strongly dependent on the mean sea surface heights near the stations. The most consistent biases are obtained based on the CLS2011 model with mission dependent accuracies from 1.3 to 3.4 cm. Hence, the GNSS-controlled tide gauges operated operationally by WSV might complement the calibration and monitoring activities at dedicated CalVal stations.

The article reports on a patient who required a cranial protection system.Using additive manufacturing techniques and surgical planning with the help of bio-models, a patient-specific bone implant solution was proposed that allows aesthetic restoration of the affected area and provides an adequate level of protection. In addition, through a comparative analysis with finite elements, the mechanical response to external actions of the medical device, printed with two materials: polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK), is simulated. The tested materials have recognized biocompatibility properties, but their costs on the market differ significantly. The results obtained demonstrate the similarities in the responses of both materials. It offers the possibility that low-income people can access these devices, guaranteeing adequate biomechanical safety, considering that PMMA is a much cheaper material than PEEK.

The wood-based panel industry is experiencing an excessive accumulation of solid residues from the production of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) panels and moldings. It is possible to create new MDF products with acceptable physical and mechanical properties by revaluing MDF residues. Additionally, those products’ thermal properties can be improved by incorporating phase change materials (PCMs). This study aims to develop a wood-based fiberboard made of MDF residues, capable of storing thermal energy. Two types of PCMs, two PCM ratios, and two types of adhesives were used to produce eight different types of panels. The vertical density profile, thickness swelling, water absorption, internal bond (IB), and static bending properties – modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) – were determined for each panel type. The specific heat of the panels was also determined. The results show the panels’ densities were greater than 700 kg/m3. Thickness swelling in water improved by 23% compared to the reference value of the control panel PCMs after PCM incorporation. The highest IB value was 1.30 MPa, which is almost three times the minimum required by regulation standards. The incorporation of PCMs reduced the panels’ bending properties compared to the properties of the control panels. Even though the values obtained are sufficient to comply with the minimum values set out in ANSI standard A208.2 with a MOE value of 2072.4 MPa and the values obtained are sufficient to comply with the minimum standards with a MOE value of 2072.4 MPa and a MOR value of 16.4 MPa. When microencapsulated PCM is used, the specific heat of the panels is increased by more than 100% over that of the control panels. This study develops a feasible alternative for using MDF residues: to create fiberboard that is capable of storing thermal energy and has adequate physical and mechanical properties.

This paper presents the mathematical modeling for designing a 10[kW] DC-AC inverter system from 48 [V] DC to 120 V ACrms, considering its non-linear operation, allowing to obtain a detailed simulation to assess the proposed fuzzy PI control (with anti-windup action) and its optimal operation. The performance assessment of the converter was carried out with the discrete treatment of the voltage and current signals using spectral analysis, filtering considerations, and evaluation of limit cycle technique to determine the system's stability. The main results showed that THD at the filter output (transformer and capacitor) was around 0.0322% and 0.0632% at nominal load in open loop and closed loop, respectively. The inverter system presented more sensitivity in the current signal with a ripple at 120 [Hz] of 2.02% and at 5000 [Hz] of 10.62% (at nominal load). However, when the system operates in a closed loop, the current ripple at 120 [Hz] is 2.38% and at 5000 [Hz] is 10.62%.

The commercial equipment that carries out the measurement of temperature has a high cost. Therefore, this article describes the development of a temperature measurement equipment, which uses a microcontrolled platform, responsible for managing the data of the collected temperature signals and making available the acquired information, so that they can be verified in real time at the measurement site, or remotely. The construction of the temperature measurement equipment was performed using open platform hardware / software, where performance tests were carried out with the objective of developing a temperature measurement equipment that has measurement quality and low cost.

An ongoing monkeypox outbreak in non-endemic countries has resulted in the declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). Though monkeypox has long been endemic in regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, relatively little is known about its ecology, epidemiology, and transmission. Here, we consider the relevant research on both monkeypox and smallpox, a close relative, to make inferences about the current outbreak. Undetected circulation, combined with atypical transmission and case presentation, including mild and asymptomatic disease, have led to the spread of monkeypox in non-endemic regions. Broader availability of diagnostics, enhanced surveillance, and targeted education, combined with a better understanding of the routes of transmission, are critical to identify at-risk populations and design science-based countermeasures to control the current outbreak.

Snow-covered regions are the main source of reflection of incident shortwave radiation (ISR) on Earth’s surface. The deposition of light-absorbing particles (LAPs) on these regions increases the capacity of snow to absorb ISR and decreases surface snow albedo (SSA), which intensifies the radiative forcing leading to accelerated snowmelt and modifications of the hydrologic cycle. In this work we investigate changes in SSA and radiative forcing (RF) induced by LAPs in the Upper Aconcagua River Basin (Chilean central Andes) using remote sensing satellite data (MODIS), in-situ spectral SSA measurements, and the ISR (Chilean Solar Explorer platform) during the austral-winter months (May to August) for the 2004-2016 period. To estimate the changes in SSA and RF, we define two spectral ranges: i) an enclosed range (Ecr) between 841-876 nm, which isolates effects of Black-Carbon, an important LAP derived from anthropogenic activities, and ii) a broadband range (Bbr) between 300-2500 nm. Our results show that percent variations in SSA in the Ecr are higher than in the Bbr, regardless of the total amount of radiation received, which may be attributed to the presence of LAPs as these particles have a greater impact on SSA at wavelengths in the Ecr band than in the Bbr band.

Air polution level measurement sometime needs tricky instrumentation, costly, and use chemical reagent that could bad impact to environment, it also time consuming for analysis. In other hand, air polution level measurement, include nitrogen dioxide (NO2) needs accuracy, rapid and environment friendly for its analysis and measurement. Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) develop as spectrum measurements both UV and visible, transmitted by specific canal using absorption Lambert Beer’s Law principal. On this basic method, NO2 measurement needs light source with 330 – 500 nm wavelength, it is possible to use cheap blue-LED for this measurement. This research intends to calibrate prototype instrumentation for measuring NO2 by DOAS based using Blue-LED (375 nm) passed in continual gas container. NO2 emission simulated in laboratory scale by reacting copper (Cu) with nitric acid (HNO3) result NO2 gas formation. Blue-LED spectrum analysed by compact CCD Spectrometer for its absorbance spectrum, then calibrated with NO2 measurement using USEPA Method 7B standard that is commonly used in testing laboratory as standard method for NO2 measurement. It has good corelation between spectrum absorbance in CCD Spectrometer to USEPA Method 7B with more than 95% linierity. As rapidity of this measurement and shown good accuracy, more development for this method could carry fast, accurate, cheap, also environmentally friendly method for NO2 measurement.

In this study, four samples of recycled aggregates from construction and demolition waste of Mexico City were characterized, in order to find innovative uses for this type of materials. Gravel and sand from a recycling plant were analyzed, as well as recycled aggregates in the laboratory from demolished concrete collected in landfills. The characterization was carried out by means of XRD, chemical microanalysis (EDS), pH measurement and sieve analysis. The results reveal that the minerals present in the analyzed materials are triclinic feldspars, cristobalite and pyroxene which correspond to the natural aggregates, as well as variable amounts of calcite, product of the carbonation of the cement paste adhered to these aggregates and in a smaller proportion calcium hemicarboaluminate, rosenhanite and tobermorite. It was determined that the quality (amount of cement) of the original concrete that was recycled, has great influence on the granulometry and the chemical-mineralogical composition of the aggregates, since there will be different quantities and qualities of cement paste adhered to the aggregates of according to size. Finally the pH values measured in all samples fluctuate between 10.15 and 12.08, therefore it is suggested that these materials can be used in soil stabilization.

The study analyzed Ecuador's presence in the Web of Science (WoS) post-pandemic from a multivariate dynamic, highlighting a significant transformation in scientific communication towards open access (OA). The methodology integrated multivariate statistical techniques, using R and specialized tools, to process 9,085 relevant articles, 52% of the Ecuadorian publications in WoS between 2019 and 2021 were open access. This movement reflects a commitment to quality research and accessibility, showing an increase in publications and citations under OA. The research underscores the importance of establishing robust national OA policies in Ecuador to promote scientific collaboration and an equitable distribution of knowledge. Despite funding challenges and the lack of specific regulations, educational institutions in Ecuador have maintained a constant scientific output, adapting to the global environment and the demand for transparent information. The study concludes that there is an urgent need for a holistic approach to OA in the country, recognizing the progress made despite the difficulties.

Grafting polyethylene glycol (PEG) on polymers surface is widely used to improve biocompatibility by reducing protein and cell adhesion. Although PEG is considered to be bioinert, its incorporation to biomaterials has shown to improve cell viability depending on the amount and molecular weight (MW) used. This phenomenon was studied here by grafting PEG of three MW onto polyurethane (PU) substrata at three molar concentrations to assess their effect on PU surface properties and on the viability of osteoblasts and fibroblasts. PEG formed a covering on the substrata which increased the hydrophilicity and surface energy of PUs. Among the results it was observed that osteoblast viability increased for all MW and grafting densities of PEG employed compared with unmodified PU. However, fibroblast viability only increased at certain combinations of MW and grafting densities of PEG, suggesting an optimal level of these parameters. PEG grafting also promoted a more spread cell morphology than that exhibited by unmodified PU; nevertheless, cells became apoptotic-like as PEG MW and grafting density were increased. These effects on cells could be due to PEG affecting culture medium pH, which became more alkaline at higher MW and concentrations of PEG. Results support the hypothesis that surface energy of PU substrates can be tuned by controlling the MW and grafting density of PEG, but these parameters should be optimized to promote cell viability without inducing apoptotic-like behavior.

In the present work, the interactions between hydrocortisone and cyclodextrins were investigated. The cyclodextrins selected for this study were hydroxypropyl-α-cyclodextrin, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin. The study was carried out using density measurements, 1H-NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. Preliminary studies show that hydroxypropyl-α-cyclodextrin has a low affinity for hydrocortisone, while hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and hydroxypropyl-γ-cyclodextrin have a good affinity for hydrocortisone in both solid state and solution. The study was carried out at two temperatures: 298.15 K and 310.15 K. The results suggest that at both temperatures, the system 2-HP-β-CD + HC induces an increase in the solvent structure, with increasing the solute concentration in the solution, while on the contrary the system 2-HP-γ-CD + HC induces a decrease in the solvent structure when the concentration of the solute in the system increases.

Frass generated during the production of black soldier fly larvae is taking the interest of scientists and horticultural producers because it is a material from the biotransformation of organic waste, it has several nutrients that can be used by plants, and its recent focus on its biostimulant capacity. The thermal-composting process is a stabilization that improves physical and chemical properties of treated wastes, allowing better performance in plants compared to its fresh state. In this research, thermocomposted frass was evaluated as a germination substrate for kale seeds (Brassica olerasea). To achieve this, it was evaluated the phytotoxicity in different concentrations on the seeds, and seedlings were grown in a germination substrates mixed with 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% of frass. The treatment with 20% frass showed the highest values of seedling height, stem diameter, number of leaves, length, and width of first true leaf and length and width of cotyledons, reduced the content of phenols and tannins antioxidants but the content of flavonoids increased compared to the control and the rest of mixtures.

Eight lesions were analyzed using some algorithms of Intelligence Artificial: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma (MEL), actinic keratosis (AK), benign keratosis (BKL), dermatofibromas (DF), melanocytic nevi (NV), and vascular lesions (VASC). This manuscript presents the possibility of using concatenated signatures (instead of images) obtained from different integral transforms, such as Fourier, Mellin, and Hilbert, to classify skin lesions. Eleven other Artificial Intelligence models were applied so that eight skin lesions could be classified by analyzing the particular signatures of each lesion. The database was randomly divided into 80%–20% for the training and test datasets images, respectively. The metrics that are being reported are accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and precision. Each case was repeated 30 times to avoid bias, according to the central limit theorem in this work, and the average and ±standard deviation were reported. Although all the results were very satisfactory, the best average mark for the eight lesions analyzed was obtained using the Subspace KNN model, where the metrics for the test were 99.98% accuracy, 99.96% sensitivity, 99.99% specificity, and 99.95% precision.

The understanding of spatiotemporal variations in reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and its long-term trends is of paramount importance for water cycle studies, modeling, and water resource management, especially in the context of climate change. Therefore, the primary aim of this study is to critically evaluate the performance of various CMIP5 global climate models in simulating the Penman-Monteith reference evapotranspiration and its associated climate variables (maximum and minimum air temperature, incident solar radiation, relative humidity, and wind speed). This evaluation is based on data from nine climate models and 33 automatic meteorological stations (EMA) in the state of Mato Grosso, spanning the period 2007-2020. The statistical metrics used for evaluation include Bias, root mean square error, and Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients. The projections of the most accurate model were then used to analyze the spatial and temporal changes and trends in ETo under the RCP 2.6, 4.5, and RCP 8.5 scenarios from 2007 to 2100. The HadGEM2-ES model projections indicate static averages similar to current conditions until the end of the century in the RCP 2.6 scenario. However, in the RCP 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios, there is a continuous increase in ETo, with the most significant increase occurring during the dry period (May to September). The areas of the Amazon biome in the north of Mato Grosso exhibit the largest increases in ETo when comparing the observed (2007-2020) and projected (2020-2100) averages. The trend analysis reveals significant changes in ETo and its variables across the state of Mato Grosso in the RCP 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios. In the RCP 2.6 scenario, significant trends in ETo are observed only in the northern Amazon areas. Despite not being observed in all AWSs, the trend analysis of the observed data demonstrates more intense changes in ETo and the existence of the evapotranspiration paradox with an increase in the Cerrado areas and reductions in the Pantanal and southern Amazon areas.

Abstract The processing of anatase ores by sulfuric acid digestion is well known for its low titanium dissolution yields, which makes the process economically and technically unfeasible. Generally, to enhance the dissolution of titanium from anatase, thermal processes along with acid and/or alkaline leaching are necessary. Few existing works report yields of direct digestion of anatase with sulfuric acid <48%. This study investigated the sulfuric digestion of anatase and yields around 80% were obtained at relatively mild conditions such as temperature at 220°C, sulfuric acid/concentrate ratio of 1:2 and 3 hours of reaction. A comprehensive characterization of anatase ore was also presented.

Objective. To examine the relationship between experience and knowledge acquired in research methodology (RM) courses and attitudes toward research in a sample of undergraduate psychology students from a public university in Mexico City. Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 261 students. A 10-unit analog scale to assess perceived experience in RM courses and two measures of attitudes toward research were used. Between the two attitude scales, four attitude dimensions were identified: positive appraisal, negative appraisal, meaningless and boring. Four multivariate models were estimated, one for each attitude dimension. Results. A positive correlation was found between learning experiences in RM courses and positive appraisal of research (p < 0.01). Negative associations were also found between RM course experience and two of the three negative research attitudes (p < 0.01). Conclusion. Results highlight the significance of teaching in the knowledge and attitude development of students' research competencies. An approach to teaching RM at the undergraduate level that places more emphasis on encouraging evidence-based practice than on developing and carrying out research projects seems to be a promising subject for study, with implications for changing teaching methods and contents.

Since World War I, the commercial aviation industry has seen many improvements that now allow people and goods to reach the other side of the world in few hours, consuming much less fuel than in recent decades. Improvements in cargo capacity and energy efficiency were significant and, in this scenario, commercial airlines were able to thrive and bring great benefits to world economy. However, this sector is facing environmental challenges due to the intensive use of aviation fuel. Brazil is one of the largest domestic air passenger markets in the world and still has great growth potential, considering its economic potential and territorial dimensions: roughly the same size as the US and twice the size of the European Union. This paper discusses partial productivity of jet fuel in Brazilian domestic aviation and proposes an econometric method to support public regulators and airlines decisions. The proposed model uses variables such as aircraft size, route characteristics and idle flight capacity in a panel data analysis. The results show that reducing idle capacity is one of the best ways to achieve better short-term fuel efficiency and therefore will reduce environmental impacts and have positive economic effects on commercial air transport activities.

A brown seaweed consumed worldwide, Fucus vesiculosus, has been used to prevent atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, among other uses, however, the mechanisms of action that lead to these effects are not yet fully understood. An F. vesiculosus aqueous extract, prepared as a soup was characterized as rich in sev-eral bioactive compounds, mainly phlorotannin and peptides. This work aims to study the in vitro effect of this extract on the expression of different proteins involved in the synthesis and transport of cholesterol in HepG2 cells, though a proteomic analysis, western blot and qRT-PCR. The results demonstrated that, in liver cells, the extract decreases the expression of 4 proteins involved in cholesterol biosynthesis process and also decrease the expression of two important transporters proteins of cholesterol, NPC1L1 and ABCG5, as well as decrease the NPC1L1 mRNA levels. Our study demonstrates some mechanisms of action of bioactive com-pounds from F. vesiculosus that may explain its previously reported hypocholesterolemic effect.

LPA3 receptors were expressed in TREx HEK 293 cells, and their signaling and phosphorylation were studied. The agonist, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), increased intracellular calcium and ERK phosphorylation through pertussis toxin-insensitive processes. Phorbol myristate acetate, but not LPA, desensitizes LPA3-mediated calcium signaling. The agonists and the phorbol ester-induced LPA3 internalization. Pitstop 2 (clathrin heavy chain inhibitor) markedly reduced LPA-induced receptor internalization; in contrast, phorbol ester-induced internalization was only delayed. LPA induced rapid β-arrestin-LPA3 receptor association. The agonist and the phorbol ester induced marked LPA3 receptor phosphorylation, and phosphorylation sites were detected using mass spectrometry. Phosphorylated residues were detected in the intracellular loop 3 (S221, T224, S225, and S229) and in the carboxyl terminus (S321, S325, S331, T333, S335, Y337, and S343). Interestingly, phosphorylation sites are within sequences predicted to constitute β-arrestin binding sites. These data provide insight into LPA3 receptor signaling and regulation.

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) type 3 (LPA3) receptor mutants were generated in which the sites detected phosphorylated were substituted by non-phosphorylatable amino acids. Substitutions were made in the intracellular loop 3 (IL3 mutant), the carboxyl terminus (Ctail), and both domains (IL3/Ctail). The wild-type (WT) receptor and the mutants were expressed in T-REx HEK293 cells, and the consequences of the substitutions were analyzed employing different functional parameters. Agonist- and LPA-mediated receptor phosphorylation was diminished in the IL3 and Ctail mutants and essentially abolished in the IL3/Ctail mutant, indicating that the main sites were substituted and distributed in both domains. The WT and mutant receptors increased intracellular calcium and ERK 1/2 phosphorylation in response to LPA and PMA. An increase in baseline ERK phosphorylation was detected in the IL3/Ctail mutant. LPA and PMA-induced receptor interaction with β-arrestin 2 and LPA3 internalization were severely diminished in the mutants. Mutant-expressing cells also exhibit increased baseline proliferation and response to different stimuli, which were inhibited by the antagonist Ki16425, suggesting a role of LPA receptors in this process. Migration in response to different attractants was markedly increased in the Ctail mutant, which the Ki16425 antagonist also attenuated.

Background: Smoking is disproportionately prevalent among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australian peoples, with 39% of Indigenous Australians aged over 15 years smoking daily. Efforts to reduce this high prevalence include culturally focused media campaigns, designed using community consultation, highlighting the need to determine how such health messaging is received by smokers. This study aimed to examine Indigenous Australian smokers’ reactions to a culturally focused anti-smoking mass media campaign—'Give up Smokes’. Methods: Intercept surveying across health services and events used recorded demographics, smoking status, quit attempts, smoking health effects, anti-smoking campaign recall, social support, and campaign reactions. Participants rated campaign images in five domains: 1) whether it made them stop and think; 2) personal relevance; 3) believability of design and message; 4) prompting concern about smoking; and 5) motivation towards quitting. Cluster analysis was used to segment smoker types. Results: Smoking health effects knowledge was high, and did not differ by quit readiness, attempts, or social support. Cessation support access was higher among those with greater readiness to quit. Social smoking behaviour and confidence to support others quitting did not significantly differ between participants, however importance of others quitting did. Quit readiness, attempts, and social support were associated with reaction to campaign design, but not message recall. Four types of smokers were described, using smoking characteristics, who differed in campaign message reactions. Conclusions: Strategies using campaign-exposed smoker characteristics to inform culturally focused health promotion are discussed in relation to four identified types of smokers.

Although previous studies have focused on the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on various professional groups (particularly in the health and nursing care sector), this study aims to close a research gap by assessing perspectives of students and young professionals in epidemiology and public health in Germany in terms of shifts in workload, work content, and related challenges caused by the pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional survey between mid-February and mid-March 2022. Quantitative data were analyzed via standardized mean differences. Qualitative data based on answers to open-ended questions were analyzed via a qualitative content analysis. Overall, 172 individuals participated in this survey. Results indicate that students felt burdened the most by lack of exchange with other students and lecturers. Study participants employed in public health experienced changes in their employment, because they had changes in their work content- and administration-wise, which was accompanied with a high burden due to the workload. Multiple demands that can have an impact on both acquired skills and mental health during the professional qualification phase were mentioned by the participants. Therefore, more in-depth analyses are needed for investigating the impact the pandemic will have on the (future) public health workforce in the long run.

The objective was to investigate associations of serum vitamin D concentration with depressive symptoms and assess the impact vitamin D concentration has on the occurrence of depressive symptoms in 20–44-year-old pregnant mothers, postpartum mothers, women (non-pregnant/postpartum women), and men, including a separate subgroup analysis of postpartum breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding mothers. The study populations were selected from 2007-2018 NHANES public data. Subjective interview data and objective laboratory data, including depressive symptoms, serum vitamin D concentration, nutrient intake, and demographic information were utilized. Two diet patterns were created using principal component analysis and a Bayesian multinomial model was fit to predict depression outcomes for each subpopulation. The estimates for the log vitamin D slope parameter were negative for all cohorts; as vitamin D increased, the probability of having no depression increased, while the probability of depression decreased. The pregnant cohort had the steepest vitamin D slope, followed by postpartum, then other women and men. Higher vitamin D concentration had more impact on decreasing depression risk in pregnant and postpartum mothers compared to other women and men. Among postpartum mothers, higher vitamin D concentration had a greater influence on decreasing breastfeeding mothers' depression risk than non-breastfeeding mothers.

Background: Studies addressing diet quality and mental health have shown a strong association. There is limited evidence of specific vitamins essential for treating depression. This study aims to understand the impact of diet quality through supplementation of vitamins D, B6, and magnesium on depressive symptoms. Methods: Multiple datasets from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-March 2020 investigated the associations between vitamin D, B6, and magnesium on depression symptoms. A cross-sectional sample of adults over 20 was extracted (n=9,232). Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the associations. Results: Individuals with low doses of vitamin D were more likely to report symptoms of depression relative to those with low doses of vitamin B6 (χ²=3.9063, p=0.0481 vs. χ²=5.2071, p=0.0225). These results remained significant among those with high magnesium proportionate to high vitamin B6 (χ²=6.1272, p=0.0133 vs. χ²=5.2071, p=0.0225). Logistic regression results provided associations for all models except unadjusted vitamin D and adjusted vitamin D. Conclusions: Preventive measures could be addressed by identifying the risks of vitamin deficiencies. Further epidemiological research is needed for the individual effects of vitamin supplementation and depression symptoms.

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) can offer significant benefits to the construction sector, improving productivity, efficiency, collaborative efforts, and product quality while promoting safety and sustainability. However, research on the application of 4IR technologies in construction is scarce in developing countries. It is crucial to understand the ability of construction companies to adopt new technologies and identify factors influencing the success of technology implementation. In this study, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted with construction professionals to evaluate the level of technological development of the construction market in an emerging economy, assess the potential for innovation implementation, and identify factors that might influence technological development. Although respondents recognized the importance of digital transformation, the results showed that most innovations are in the early stages of implementation in the construction sector, particularly technologies that are essential for the consolidation of the 4IR. Understanding the factors underlying this reality can support the development of strategies to foster innovation and harness the advantages of the 4IR in the construction industry in developing countries.

Aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and usability of a novel continuous glucose moni-toring (CGM) system designed for needle-free insertion and reduced environmental impact. We assessed sensor performance of two GlucoMen® Day CGM systems worn simultaneously in eight participants with type 1 diabetes. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) was performed reg-ularly over 14 days at home. Participants underwent two standardized 5-hour meal challenges with frequent plasma glucose (PG) measurements using a laboratory reference instrument at the research center. When comparing CGM to PG the overall mean absolute relative difference (MARD) was 9.7 [2.6-14.6]%. The overall MARD of CGM vs SMBG was 13.1 [3.5-18.6]%. In the consensus error grid (CEG) analysis, 98% of both CGM/PG and CGM/SMBG pairs were in the clinically acceptable zones A and B. The analysis confirms that GlucoMen® Day CGM meets the clinical requirements for state-of-the-art CGM. The needle-free insertion technology is well toler-ated by users and reduces medical waste compared to conventional CGM systems.

Concatemeric viral DNA is packaged into Bacteriophage P22 procapsids via a headful packaging mechanism mediated by a molecular machine consisting of small (gp3) and large (gp2) terminase subunits. Although a negative stain reconstruction exists for the terminase holoenzyme, it is not clear how this complex binds dodecameric portal protein located at a 5-fold mismatch vertex. Herein, we describe new assemblies for the holoenzyme. Both native mass spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy reveal that the P22 terminase complex adopts three main assemblies, which include a nonameric S-terminase bound to two L-terminase 1(gp3)9:2(gp2), two nonameric S-terminase bound to five L-terminase 2(gp3)9:5(gp2), and three nonameric S-terminase bound to seven L-terminase 3(gp3)9:7(gp2). Native agarose gel electrophoresis shows that the terminase complex interacts with procapsid with mild crosslinking. These results herein illustrate the P22 terminase complex can adopt a variety of confirmations and assembly states.

Ischemic heart disease is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. There is evidence of the participation of Aβ in thrombosis and clinical manifestations of acute coronary syndromes. In this study, we investigated the correlation of Aβ peptides with myocardial injury and inflammation biomarkers in acute coronary syndrome. This is a single-center, cross-sectional, observational, and correlation study that included 65 patients within the first 12 hours after symptom onset (chest pain, shoulder pain, or chest discomfort) with ST-elevation and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction who were admitted in the Coronary Care Unit, biochemical parameters of Aβ peptides levels were evaluated. Our results show that NSTEMI patients had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and prior myocardial infarction when compared to STEMI patients. We observed a higher level of Aβ-42 in NSTEMI, but no difference in Aβ-40 levels. We also found a correlation between age and NT-proBNP with both Aβ peptides (Aβ-40, Aβ-42) in both groups. In this analysis, NSTEMI patients had higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. Considering the toxic properties of Aβ-42 in coronary endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes, this peptide may be useful in risk stratification scores in patients with NSTEMI.

Biomimetic compounds are an alternative for to the limited action and fragile nature of enzymes. This work deals with the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of catalytic activity of two new biomimetic models for the active centers of ascorbate oxidase and catalase. [Cu3(S,S(+)cpse)3(H2O)3][Cu3(R,R(-)cpse)3(H2O)3]·17H2O (model for ascorbate oxidase, 1), and [Mn2(S,S(+)Hcpse)4(NaClO4)2(NaOH)(CH4O)]n·[(C2H6O)2]n·[(CH4O)2]n (model for catalase, 2) were prepared through the synchronic method (yields > 78%). The compound 1 has electronic and optical characteristics for racemic compound. The magnetic properties and electrochemical behavior evidence electronic transfer between metal centers. Meanwhile, the compound 2 showed polymeric properties in solid state and dimeric behavior in solution. Compound 1 was able to effectively catalyze the oxidation of ascorbic acid to dehydroascorbic acid (65.6% and 78.24% for racemic and enantiomeric pure compounds) showing structural and functional similarity to the natural enzyme. Besides, Compound 2 catalyzed the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide toward oxygen and water molecules (45%), evidencing that the prepared complex mimics the action of catalases. These two biomimetic models are relationship between them for the structural ligands, the coordination form to metal center and the catalytic activity as oxidase. This research shows the relationship with the design, evaluation, and comprehension of fundamentals aspects for the biomimetic models of active center of metalloenzymes that have importance for biological and industrial processes.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain cancer characterized by significant molecular and cellular heterogeneity, complicating treatment efforts. Current standard therapies, including surgical resection, radiation, and temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy, often fail to achieve long-term remission due to tumor recurrence and resistance. A pro-oxidant environment is in-volved in glioma progression, with oxidative stress contributing to the genetic instability that leads to gliomagenesis. However, the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) results in the dysregulation of antioxidant defenses in GBM cells, creating a vulnerability that can be thera-peutically exploited. Evaluating pro-oxidant therapies in brain tumors is crucial due to their po-tential to selectively target and eradicate cancer cells by exploiting the elevated oxidative stress levels inherent in these malignant cells, thereby offering a novel and effective strategy for overcoming resistance to conventional therapies. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of doxorubicin (DOX) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) with Me-ALA, focusing on their effects on redox homeostasis. Basal ROS levels and antioxidant gene expression (NFE2L2, CAT, GSR) were quantitatively assessed across GBM cell lines, revealing significant variability probably linked to genetic differences. DOX and PDT treatments, both individually and in combination, were ana-lyzed for their efficacy in inducing oxidative stress and cytotoxicity. An in silico analysis further explored the relationship between gene mutations and oxidative stress in GBM patients, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying treatment responses. Our findings suggest that pro-oxidant therapies, such as DOX and PDT in combination, could selectively target GBM cells, highlighting a promising avenue for improving therapeutic outcomes in GBM.

In the Cerrado-Amazonian ecotone in the State of Mato Grosso, intensely altered by anthropic action, the knowledge and processes of energy conversion and energy balance are still incipient, making the monitoring and modeling of diffuse radiation essential for several applications. The objective of this study was to evaluate the seasonality of the diurnal evolution and estimate the hourly diffuse radiation (Hdh) incident radiation in the horizontal plane, between June 2011 and October de 2016. The instantaneous measurements (5 minutes) of diffuse radiation underwent geometric, astronomical, and anisotropic corrections, with subsequent hourly integrations. The seasonality of diffuse radiation and its radiometric fractions was evaluated. The estimates were made considering total and seasonal data groupings (water stations in the region) and in different cloudiness classes (atmospheric transmissivity index - KTh). The diurnal behavior of diffuse radiation (Hdh) was similar to that of global radiation and at the top of the atmosphere, with maximum values at solar noon. The correlations between Kdh and KTh showed third-order polynomial behavior, with maximum observed values of Kdh ranging from 0.8 to 0.9, for KTh less than 0.2. Estimation equations based on radiometric fractions underestimated the values of diffuse radiation, with a better performance presented by models adjusted in annual data groupings. Among the parameterized models for estimating diffuse radiation obtained in the literature, those calibrated regionally in this study, together with those developed for tropical regions, presented better statistical performances.