Autophagy is an essential mechanism to maintain cellular homeostasis. Besides its role in controlling the quality of cytoplasmic components, it participates in nutrient obtaining and lipid mobilization under stressful conditions. Furthermore, autophagy is involved in the regulation of systemic metabolic, a function mainly performed by neuronal populations of the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. Several studies have shown that blockade of autophagy in these neurons can affect central regulation of metabolism and impact body energy balance. Moreover, hypothalamic autophagy can be altered during obesity. However, neurons are not the only cell type involved in the central regulation of metabolism. Astrocytes, essential cells for brain homeostasis, are key metabolic regulators. They can sense metabolic signals in the hypothalamus and modulate systemic functions as glucose homeostasis and feeding response. Moreover, the response of astrocytes to obesity has been widely studied. Astrocytes are important mediators of brain inflammation and can be affected by increased levels of saturated fatty acids associated to obesity. Although autophagy plays important roles for astrocyte homeostasis and functioning, the contribution of astrocyte autophagy to systemic metabolism has not been analysed. Furthermore, how obesity can impact astrocyte autophagy is poorly understood. More studies are needed in other to understand the contribution of astrocyte autophagy to metabolism.

In this study, the physical properties of briquettes produced from two different biomass feedstocks (sawdust and date palm trunk) and different plastic wastes were investigated, without using any external binding agent. The biomass feedstocks were blended with different ratios of two WEEE plastics (halogen-free wire and print circuit boards (PCB)) and automotive shredder residues (ASR). The briquettes production is studied at different waste proportions (10-30%), pressures (22-67 MPa) and temperatures (room-130 ˚C). Physical properties as density and durability rating were measured, usually increasing with temperature. Palm trunk gave better results than sawdust in most cases, due to its moisture content and the extremely fine particles that are easily obtained.

Background: Handheld cameras may increase access to teleretinal diabetic retinopathy screenings (TDRS), as they are more economical and nimbler than traditional desktop cameras. However, their use in safety-net clinical settings is less understood. Methods: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health collaborated with the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (DHS) to pilot the use of handheld cameras in DHS’s TDRS program. This study assessed screening metrics and interviewed TDRS coordinators and photographers about their experiences using these cameras. Results: Handheld cameras are harder to operate and performed less optimally on key screening metrics (e.g., image quality) compared to desktop cameras. However, this challenge appeared to be linked to the selected model, rather than to all handheld cameras. The adoption of handheld cameras in DHS was aided by their integration into an existing agency infrastructure that already supports the use of desktop cameras; these operational supports include an established workflow, a data platform, and experienced photographers. Conclusions: The use of handheld cameras for TDRS is a promising practice for assuring equitable access to screenings. Handheld cameras are portable, smaller in size, and lower in cost than desktop cameras. Future projects should invest in and assess the performance of higher-quality models of these cameras, especially their use in safety-net clinical settings.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and the therapies of AD with anti-amyloid1-42 (Aβ) monoclonal antibodies are associated with the vascular complications of brain edema, hemorrhage, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) termed amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIAs). The neuropathology of normal and AD brains demonstrates that monocyte/macrophages (MMs) are critical in successful brain clearance in healthy brain by up-loading, transporting, and degrading Aβ but fail degradation and clearance in AD patients by releasing Aβ into vessels at the blood-brain barrier, causing vasculitis and ARIAs. The naturally-formed epoxides (EpFAs) of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA’s), including arachidonic, docosahexaenoic, and eicosapentaenoic fatty acids, may repair degradation of Aβ by regulating Aβ-degrading enzymes, inflammatory cytokines, and unfolded protein response (UPR) to endoplasmic reticulum stress in a homeostatic fashion. EpFAs are, however, degraded by the soluble epoxide hydrolase enzyme (sEH) but are protected by the sEH inhibitor (sEHI) TPPU. In the cultures of AD patients’ macrophages, TPPU with the epoxide EEQ, and the cGAS/STING inhibitor H-151 increased uptake of Aβ at 2 hours and degradation of Aβ at 24 hours. In conclusion, the soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor TPPU with omega-3 fatty acids and the cGAS/STING inhibitor H-151 increase Aβ uptake and degradation in macrophages of AD patients, and potentially enhancing Aβ clearance in the AD brain.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical need for telehealth and remote patient monitoring in healthcare delivery. Despite the growing use of on-body wearable sensors for continuous monitoring and predicting adverse events, such as hospitalizations or falls, their widespread adoption within the healthcare ecosystem remains a significant challenge. While the pandemic has accelerated the acceptance of these technologies, achieving widespread integration requires their sustained incorporation into routine healthcare practices beyond emergency situations. In this study, we extend the application of our previously developed remote patient monitoring system, originally designed for the geriatric frail population, to COVID-19 patients. Our objective is to assess whether the metrics obtained from this system, which includes physical activity and indoor localization sensors, along with vital sign monitoring, can provide additional insights into the recovery trajectory of individuals affected by COVID-19.

A physical model based on the mechanism observed in experimental investigations is introduced to describe the formation of negative leader steps. Starting with a small length of a space leader located at the periphery of the negative streamer system of the stepped leader the model simulates the growth and the subsequent formation of the leader step. Based on the model, the average step length, the average step forming time and the average stepped leader propagation speed is estimated as a function of prospective return stroke peak current. The results show that the average step length and the average leader speed increases with increasing prospective return stroke current. The results also show that the speed of the stepped leader increases as it approaches the ground. For a 30 kA prospective return stroke current the average leader speed obtained is about 5 x 10⁵ m/s and the average step length was about 10 m. The results obtained are in reasonable agreement with the experimental observations.

Accurate fire severity mapping is essential for understanding the impacts of wildfires on vegetation dynamics in arid savannas. The frequent wildfires in these biomes often cause topkill, where vegetation experiences above-ground combustion, but the below-ground root structures survive, allowing for subsequent regrowth post-burn. Investigating post-fire regrowth is crucial for maintaining ecological balance, elucidating fire regimes, and enhancing the knowledge base of land managers regarding vegetation response. This study examined the relationship between bush fire severity and post-burn coppicing/regeneration events of woody vegetation in the Kalahari Desert of Botswana. Utilizing UAV-derived RGB imagery combined with a Random Forest (RF) classification algorithm, we aimed to enhance the precision of burn severity mapping at a fine spatial resolution. Our research focused on a 1 km2 plot within the Modisa Wildlife Reserve, extensively burnt by the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Fire of 2021. The UAV imagery, captured at various intervals post-burn, provided detailed orthomosaics and canopy height models, facilitating precise land cover classification and burn severity assessment. The RF model achieved an overall accuracy of 79.5% and effectively identified key burn severity indicators, including green vegetation, charred grass, and ash deposits. Our analysis revealed a >50% probability of woody vegetation regrowth in high severity burn areas six months post-burn, highlighting the resilience of these ecosystems. This study demonstrates the efficacy of low-cost UAV photogrammetry for fine scale burn severity assessment and provides valuable insights into post-fire vegetation recovery, thereby aiding land management and conservation efforts in savannas.

We have studied the very large amount of literary works written by the Italian mystic Maria Valtorta to assess similarities and differences in her writings because she claims that most of them are due to mystical visions. We have used mathematical and statistical tools developed for specifically studying deep linguistic aspects of texts. The general trend indicates that the literary works explicitly attributable to Maria Valtorta differ significantly from her other literary works, that she claims are attributable to the alleged characters Jesus and Mary. Mathematically, they seem to have been written by different authors. The comparison with the Italian literature is very striking. A single author, namely Maria Valtorta, seems to be able to write texts so diverse to cover the entire mathematical range (suitable defined) of the Italian literature of seven centuries.

The lack of suitable autologous grafts and poor compliance of existing prostheses have prompted the study of novel materials for vascular graft design. Polyurethanes (PUs) were used in the past because they have high compliance and properties that are similar to those of native tissue. In this work, the mechanical properties of a group of PUs in two states (non-hydrated and hydrated) were studied using uniaxial tensile tests, strain sweep tests, and multi-step creep recovery tests. Additionally, a hyper-elastic model based on the Mooney–Rivlin strain density function was fitted and used to model the performances of the PUs under physiological pressure and geometry conditions. The tensile tests revealed a softening phenomenon after hydration, which could potentially reduce patient discomfort and risk of vascular trauma. The ultimate strength values after hydration were similar to those reported for other vascular conduits. The strain sweep showed a strong strain dependency of the modulus indicating non-linear viscoelasticity. In the creep-recovery tests, increasing the polyethylene glycol(PEG) content enhanced the viscous flow, while the elastic behavior was enhanced with the largest concentration of polycaprolactone diol (PCL). On the other hand, under simulated physiological conditions, the compliance of the PUs showed a cyclic behavior with the time and pressure but was not affected by the radii and thickness variation, which could increase the graft compliance and geometry mismatch. Nevertheless, the compliance could be tuned using the material composition. This paper studied the biomechanics of a group of materials under simulated physiological conditions (Temperature, hydration, and pressure) to select those that could perform better for further vascular graft design.

We present 4 cases of patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma initially treated without monoclonal antibodies. It was decided to provide the benefit of the drug after maintenance with lenalidomide was initiated to consolidate the post-maintenance response followed by monitoring without any kind of treatment. In this series of 4 cases 100% of the patients achieved a strict complete response with undetectable Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) for flow cytometry after post-maintenance consolidation with daratumumab regardless of the scheme used as induction/consolidation, as well as whether they had received HSCT. Until the last follow-up the patients are under surveillance with no evidence of progression. It should be noted that 3 of 4 of these patients debuted with high-risk disease.

Manuka honey (MH) exhibits potential antitumor activity in preclinical models of a number of human cancers. Treatment in vitro with MH at concentrations ranging from 0.3-5.0% (w/v) led to significant dose-dependent inhibition of proliferation of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells, but anti-proliferative effects of MH were less pronounced in triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Effects of MH were also tested on non-malignant human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC) at 2.5% w/v, and it was found that MH reduced proliferation of MCF-7 cells but not that of HMEC. Notably, the antitumor activity of MH was in the range of that exerted by treatment of MCF-7 cells with the antiestrogen tamoxifen. Further, MH treatment stimulated apoptosis of MCF-7 cells in vitro, with most cells exhibiting acute and significant levels of apoptosis that correlated with PARP activation. Additionally, effects of MH induced activation of AMPK and inhibition of AKT/mTOR downstream signaling. Treatment of MCF7 cells with increased concentrations of MH induced AMPK phosphorylation in a dose dependent manner that was accompanied by inhibition of phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR downstream effector protein S6. In addition, MH reduced phosphorylated STAT3 levels in vitro which may correlate with MH and AMPK-mediated anti-inflammatory properties. Further, in vivo, MH administered alone significantly inhibited the growth of established MCF-7 tumors in nude mice by 84%, resulting in an observable reduction in tumor volume. Our findings highlight the need for further research into the use of natural compounds, such as MH, for antitumor efficacy and potential chemoprevention and investigation of molecular pathways underlying these actions.

Epilepsy is a common neurological condition, typically diagnosed using Electroencephalogram (EEG). Large scale EEG datasets have recently been made publicly available, allowing the use of advanced Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to analyze EEG patterns associated with epilepsy. While most existing studies focus on identifying seizures in the EEG, few have tried to identify preictal EEG segments. Identifying preictal EEG segments are not only useful in developing early warning systems but also helps inform the course of treatment for the patient. In this study, we propose to represent EEG segments as images, instead of time-series data, and identify preictal EEG segments using a preexisting ML algorithm (YOLOv8) designed for image processing. Multiplexed images (containing the original EEG signal represented on a 2D grid, kurtosis, and spectral entropy) achieve the best accuracy of 95.75% on the dataset while images just containing the EEG signal result in an accuracy of 91.25%. Using only spectrograms, generated from the original EEG signal, results in an accuracy of 90.15%.

The purpose of this study was to identify candidate novel species performing beneficial ecological functions from soil. The hypothesis was that novel culturable species with antibiotic production potential could be readily found from soil in the Nature Canyon at Los Angeles Pierce College. 137 bacterial isolates from soil were grown on nutrient agar, ISP-6 medium, or LB agar and partial 16S was ascertained using the Sanger platform for regions V1-V4. One of the potentially novel isolates, Pseudomonas sp. 21-C3-ER, was isolated on nutrient agar from fallow soil in an agricultural nature preserve in Los Angeles. The soil conditions were 3.7% moisture, clay texture by touch, 13.37% organic matter, pH=6.63, TDS=638, 150 ppm nitrogen, 114 ppm phosphate, and 42 ppm potash. Whole genome sequencing was performed on the DNBseq platform and species identification was performed with TRUEBacID; the closest relative was Pseudomonas brassicacearum subsp. neoaurantiaca which was 92.05% similar by genomic evidence. 197 virulence factors were identified including flagellar biosynthesis, motor proteins, Beta-lactamase, Fosfomycin, copper, and sulfur drug resistance. Gram stain of strain 21-C3-ER revealed gram negative rods. Rods were visualized with scanning electron microscopy, revealing individuals approximately 1 µm in length. Secondary metabolite analysis using antiSMASH showed a variety of post-translationally modified proteins and a promysalin analog. The qualitative test for pyoverdine siderophore production using UV light was positive. Metabolic analysis using RAST indicated genes were present for pyoverdine production, antimicrobial resistance, and ammonification. The nitrate reduction test was positive. Denitrifying bacteria may prevent leaching of nitrates from soil, since ammonia has a higher affinity to soil and organic matter than nitrate. We propose Pseudomonas fernandeno as a novel species. The type stain is 21-C3-ER.

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a groundbreaking advancement in cancer therapy, synergistically combine the precision of monoclonal antibodies with the potent destruction capabilities of cytotoxic drugs, signifying a new era in the targeted oncological treatments. This comprehensive paper delves into the evolving field of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and their pivotal role in cancer therapy. We have conducted an in-depth exploration of the structural components of ADCs, including target antigens, monoclonal antibodies, chemical linkers, and cytotoxic payloads, each playing a crucial role in determining the efficacy and safety profile of these novel therapies. A detailed market analysis reveals the leading pharmaceutical companies shaping the ADC landscape, reflecting the growing interest and potential in this therapeutic approach. We further dissect the engineering intricacies of ADCs, focusing on their ability to target specific cancer cell antigens while minimizing off-target effects, thus offering a more focused treatment with reduced systemic side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. This approach holds promise in a heightened therapeutic index and decreased toxicity. The mechanisms and effector functions of ADCs are explored, highlight- ing their multifaceted strategy in combating cancer. We include a comprehensive look at how ADCs operate from initial blood circulation to the induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. We also review several key ADCs currently in use or under investigation, offering insights into their unique mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and clinical implications. The discussion extends to drug creation modalities, focusing on innovative conjugation techniques that enhance ADC homogeneity and therapeutic efficacy. In conclusion, the paper underscores the transformative potential of ADCs in the realm of cancer treatment, marking a shift towards more precise and targeted therapeutic approaches. By offering a thorough analysis of ADC technology, this paper sheds light on the prospects of these groundbreaking therapies in the ongoing fight against cancer.

Nutrient profiling (NP) models that assess nutrient density of foods can help remedy micronutrient deficiencies. We used NP methods to identify the most nutrient-rich foods in the 2019 FAO/INFOODS Western Africa Food Composition Table (WAFCT). The WAFCT had complete data for 909 foods. Three versions of the well-established Nutrient Rich Food (NRF) model were used: 1) the original NRF9.3; 2) a new NRF6.3 based on 6 priority micronutrients (iron, zinc, calcium, folate, vitamin A, vitamin B12); and 3) NRF 15.3, based on 15 nutrients to encourage (NRF6.3 nutrients + vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, copper, and magnesium). Data analyses used one-way ANOVAs and independent t-tests, with significance at α=0.05. Animal-source foods were rated higher by NRF6.3 priority micronutrient and NRF15.3 NP models than by the NRF9.3 model. African indigenous vegetables had higher protein content and higher nutrient density compared to non-indigenous vegetables. African indigenous grains had higher nutrient density compared to non-indigenous grains. Though animal-source foods received some of the highest scores, NP models adapted to the West African context showed that African indigenous vegetables and grains were also nutrient rich. Indigenous foods could be important sources of priority micronutrients for the region.

Demography and behavior of Teinopodagrion oscillans was studied in a protected area from Andean region. Adult damselflies were individually marked, and using their recapture histories we estimated survival, longevity, sex ratio, and population size using Cormack-Jolly-Seber models. Furthermore, aspects of their behaviour were recorded. Survival, recapture, and lifespan were similar for both sexes and all age groups. Mature males were larger and the distance from the water was similar for all individuals. The most supported model was the time-dependent model for survival and recapture (Phi(t) p(t)). This suggests that weather variations affect in a significant way the demography of this population. Individuals exhibited high fidelity to their site perch, perching with open wings near to water on a variety of perch. Mature males make short flights from the perch to intercept conspecific and interspecific males and to hunt prey. Tandem position was formed on macrophytes and then the pair flight away. Oviposition lasted for 11.23 minutes on average, with the females ovipositing by abdomen submersion. Our results offer insights on demographic characteristics and behaviour of this species, providing crucial information for short and long term conservation decisions of the biodiversity in ecosystems of the Andean region.

Remote sensing datasets are increasingly being used to provide spatially explicit large scale evapotranspiration (ET) estimates. The focus of this study was to estimate and thematically map on a pixel-by-pixel basis, the actual evapotranspiration (ET_a) of the Wonji Shoa Sugarcane Estate using the Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL), Simplified Surface Energy Balance (SSEB) and Operational Simplified Surface Energy Balance (SSEBop) algorithms. The results obtained revealed that the ranges of the daily ETa estimated on January 25, February 26, September 06 and October 08, 2002 using SEBAL were 0.0 - 6.85, 0.0 – 9.36, 0.0 – 3.61, 0.0 – 6.83 mm/day; using SSEB 0.0 - 6.78, 0.0 – 7.81, 0.0 – 3.65, 0.0 – 6.46 mm/day, and SSEBop were 0.05 - 8.25, 0.0 – 8.82, 0.2 – 4.0, 0.0 – 7.40 mm/day, respectively. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values between SSEB and SEBAL, SSEBop and SEBAL, and SSEB and SSEBop were 0.548, 0.548, and 0.99 for January 25, 2002; 0.739, 0.753, and 0.994 for February 26, 2002;0.847, 0.846, and 0.999 for September 06, 2002; 0.573, 0.573, and 1.00 for October 08, 2002, respectively. The standard deviation of ET_a over the sugarcane estate showed high spatio-temporal variability perhaps due to soil moisture variability and surface cover. The three algorithm results showed that well watered sugarcane fields in the mid-season growing stage of the crop had higher ET_a values compared with the other dry agricultural fields confirming that they consumptively use more water. Generally during the dry season, ET_a is limited to water surplus areas only and in wet season, ET_a was high throughout the entire sugarcane estate. The evaporation fraction (ETrF) results also followed the same pattern as the daily ET_a over the sugarcane estate. The total crop and irrigation water requirement and effective rainfall estimated using the Cropwat model were 2468.8, 2061.6 and 423.8 mm/yr for January 2001 planted and 2281.9, 1851.0 and 437.8 mm/yr for March 2001 planted sugarcanes, respectively. The mean annual ET_a estimated for the whole estate were 107 Mm³, 140 Mm³, and 178 Mm³ using SEBAL, SSEB, and SSEBop, respectively. Even though the algorithms should be validated through field observation, they have potential to be used for effective estimation of ET in the sugarcane estate.

Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) are at the forefront of advancements in transportation, offering enhanced efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness. To enable ITS, autonomous systems play a pivotal role, leveraging breakthroughs in autonomous driving, data-driven modeling, and multiagent control strategies to establish sustainable and coordinated traffic management. The integration of connected and automated vehicles has garnered significant attention as a potential solution for alleviating traffic congestion and improving fuel economy, achieved through global route optimization and cooperative driving. This study focuses on a predictive control perspective to address the cooperative cruise control problem. Online decision-making is employed during the driving process, utilizing information gathered from the network. By employing bargaining games to establish an operating agreement among vehicles, we formalize a synchronization approach based on predictive control theory. Ultimately, these findings are put to the test in an emulation environment within a hardware-in-the-loop system.

Background: The presence of a leadership role in the nursing manager appears to be closely related to a positive and productive work environment within health settings. In some contexts, such as Mexico, the profile of the nursing manager has not been formally defined, and, sometimes those who occupy these positions do not always have sufficient training, and therefore this vocation, which is related to the social image of the nursing profession. This study aims to understand the influence of the vocation for leadership that the nursing manager has and how it can influence the work environment, through the analysis of experiences lived by health professionals with a management profile of different health environments; Methods: Qualitative study of an approximation to grounded theory using Corbin & Strauss as reference, using semi-structured individual interviews as a technique, and with the participation of 10 Mexican nursing managers from second-level care hospitals; Results: The meaning of the vocation for the interviewed managers is based in the first instance on the love of the profession and the vocation to be a nurse, then on the development of leadership for decision-making in practice and is fed back with the positive effects that it generates in the work environment, helping them to better organize human resources and professional activities, and strengthening themselves with specific training on the subject and the experience acquired. ; Conclusions: An understanding model is provided about the phenomenon where two central categories were identified, the first central category is the "Management vocation and natural nursing leadership" which is the basis; The second central category is the "Explanation and influence of the managerial vocation, natural leadership and work environment in nursing". Two connection categories were also created; the connection category one "Motives, meaning, and practical vocation of managerial nursing" and the connection category two "Description of the managerial vocation, natural leadership, and work environment", said connection categories emanate from the central category one, to connect with the central category two, which contains the interaction of the managerial vocation, natural leadership, and work environment in nursing.

Introduction: When analyzing the current situation in Spain, derived from our current lifestyles far from following a Mediterranean lifestyle, there is an alarming prevalence of diabesity, which increases the global risk of suffering from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and decreases the quality of life related to health (QLRH). In order to guarantee, beyond glycemic control of patients with type 2 diabetes (DM2), adequate control of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in DM2, it will be necessary to carry out a community intervention focused on the application of education programs focused on promoting the acquisition of healthy eating habits through the Mediterranean diet (DMED). This dietary pattern, together with physical exercise, has been shown to contribute to improving the QLRH of patients. Objective: To analyze the quality of life related to health, present in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, to determine the possible relationship between this and the degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and to examine whether there are differences between the sexes. Material and methods: Observational descriptive study in 93 patients diagnosed with DM2 with poor glycemic control (1Ac ≥ 7%), carried out in various health centers in Albacete and Cuenca, in which the baseline relationship between adherence to DMed and the HRQoL. They were administered a data collection sheet that included a survey of the degree of adherence to the DMed (MEDAS-14) and QLRH (SF-12v2) in the Primary Care (PC) medical and nursing consultations. The variables were analyzed: age groups, sex, years of evolution of DM2, body mass index (BMI), as well as basal glycemia (GB) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The “MEDAS-14” (adherence to DMED) was the main variable and the “SF-12v2” (QLRH) was the secondary variable. Material and methods: Observational descriptive study in 93 patients diagnosed with DM2 with poor glycemic control (1Ac ≥ 7%), carried out in various health centers in Albacete and Cuenca, in which the baseline relationship between adherence to DMed and the HRQoL. They were administered a data collection sheet that included a survey of the degree of adherence to the DMed (MEDAS-14) and QLRH (SF-12v2) in the Primary Care (PC) medical and nursing consultations. The variables were analyzed: age groups, sex, years of evolution of DM2, body mass index (BMI), as well as basal glycemia (GB) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The “MEDAS-14” (adherence to DMED) was the main variable and the “SF-12v2” (QLRH) was the secondary variable. Results: Patients with poorly controlled DM2 and with low adherence to the MedDM show a non-significantly greater affectation in the physical sphere: fair general state of health, physical function I (limitation to make moderate efforts such as moving a table, vacuuming or walk more than an hour), physical function II (limitation to climb several flights of stairs), physical role (problems at work or daily activities doing less than loved ones), physical role II (they had to stop performing some tasks at work or activities of daily living) and regular body pain. Presenting less affectation in the mental field: emotional role I, emotional role II, mental health I, vitality and mental health II. Without affectation in the social function since they consider that rarely the emotional or physical problems have hindered their social activities. Conclusions: Diabetic patients with poor glycemic control have low adherence to the MedMD (<9 points) and have poor QLRH. Low adherence to the DMed and obesity are related to a greater affectation in the physical dimension and less affectation in the mental dimension without affectation in the "social function".

Background: Deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT1) is a rare disorder that represents a significant health threat and early diagnostic a priority issue. We investigate the usefulness of the serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) as an opportunistic screening tool for AAT1 deficiency. Methods: For 6 months, all SPE carried out for any reasons were evaluated in our center. In those with less than 3% of Alpha-1 globulins, AAT1 concentrations were studied. The SERPINA1 gene was subsequently sequenced in those subjects displaying concentrations below 100 mg/dL. Results: Out of the total, 14 patients (0.3%) were identified with low AAT1 concentrations, 11 of them agreeing to enter the study. Of those, mutations in the SERPINA1 gene were discovered in 10 subjects (91%). Heterozygous mutations were detected in 7 patients; 3 had the c.1096G>A mutation (p.Glu366Lys; Pi*Z), 2 the c.863A>T mutation (p.Glu288Val; Pi*S), one the c.221_223delTCT mutation (p.Phe76del; Pi*Malton) having the last one the c.1066G>A (p.Ala356Thr) mutation not previously described. Finally one patient had the c.863A>T mutation in homozygosis whereas two double heterozygous patients c.863A> T/ c.1096G>A were detected. Conclusions: an altered result in the concentration of AAT1 anticipates a mutation in the SERPINA1 gene in a manner close to 91%. The relationship between a decrease in the Alpha-1 globulin band of the SPE and an alteration in the AAT1 concentration is direct in basal states of health. The SPE is presented as a highly sensitive test for opportunistic screening of AAT1 deficiency.

Maria Valtorta (MV) (1897–1961) – an Italian mystic who claimed to have visions of Jesus’s life – describes Jesus’ crucifixion with many details from which significant data can be retrieved. My investigation based on these data and the topography of northwest Jerusalem in the I century AD, shows that Jesus’ crucifixion place, Golgotha (the “skull”), is neither at the Holy Sepulchre nor in the Garden Tomb area. The paved road to Golgotha she accurately describes arrives at its top with the minimum mean route gradient; its half way defines two distinct tracts with same height and same walking time but different mean route gradient; at half way Jesus is allowed to walk to the top in a spiral country road less steep than the second tract. The paved road leads to a place where few years after Jesus’ crucifixion the Psephinus Tower, described by Flavius Josephus, was erected, in the area known today as the Russian Compound. In conclusion, the Golgotha reveiled by MV’s writings was located at the same site of the Psephinus Tower.

Chitosan arouses large interest due to its properties and possible applications. Every year the number of publications and patents based on this polymer increases. Chitosan exhibits poor solubility in neutral and basic media limiting its use in such conditions. Another serious obstacle is directly related to its natural origin. Chitosan is not a single polymer with a defined structure but a family of molecules with differences in their composition, size, and monomer distribution. These properties have a fundamental effect on the biological and technological performance of the polymer. Moreover, some of the biological properties claimed are discrete. In this review, we discuss how chitosan chemistry can solve the problems related to its poor solubility and can boost the polymer properties. We focus on some of the main biological properties of chitosan and the relationship with the physicochemical properties of the polymer. Then, we visit two polymer applications related to green processes: the use of chitosan in the green synthesis of metallic na-noparticles and its use as support in biocatalyst. Finally, we briefly describe how making use of the technological properties of chitosan it is possible to develop a variety of systems for drug delivery

P-band radar remote sensing applied during the Airborne Microwave Observatory of Subcanopy and Subsurface (AirMOSS) mission has shown great potential for estimation of root zone soil moisture. When retrieving the soil moisture profile (SMP) from P-band radar, a mathematical function describing the vertical moisture distribution is required. Because only a limited number of observations are available, the number of free parameters of the mathematical model must not exceed the number of observed data. For example, a second order polynomial that contains 3 free parameters was presumed based on in-situ SMP data. The polynomial is currently parameterized based on 3 backscatter observations provided by AirMOSS (i.e. one frequency at three polarizations of HH, VV and HV). In this paper, a more realistic, physically-based SMP model containing 3 free parameters is derived based on a solution to Richards’ equation for unsaturated flow in soils. Evaluation of the new SMP model based on both numerical simulations and measured data revealed that it exhibits greater flexibility for fitting measured and simulated SMPs than the currently applied polynomial. It is also demonstrated that the new SMP model can be reduced to a second order polynomial at the expense of fitting accuracy.

Hospitalizations for patients with diabetes and dementia take a significant health and economic toll on older adults in the United States. The present study sought to examine the differences in hospitalization characteristics and outcomes associated with diabetes and dementia separately and together using discharge record data of Los Angeles County residents aged 50+ from the California Department of Health Care Access and Information for the period 2019-2021. Results from multiple linear regression analyses indicated that when compared to those with no diabetes or dementia, patients with diabetes alone exhibited the highest total charges, while those with comorbid diabetes and dementia exhibited lower charges (p≤.05). Results of a multinomial logistic regression found that patients with comorbid diabetes and dementia had the highest odds of having a length of stay of 7+ days (AOR=1.49; 95% CI=1.44-1.53). A matched-case control analysis found that comorbid diabetes and dementia was associated with significantly lower odds of hypertensive disease than diabetes alone (MOR=0.81; 95% CI=0.67-0.97). These results highlight the complexity of factors affecting variation in hospitalization outcomes across these distinct disease profiles. Findings suggest a need to carefully consider this complexity when developing health policies or strategies to improve hospitalization outcomes involving these disease conditions.

In this study we sought to investigate the impact of urbanization, presence of concrete river bottom, and nutrient pollution on microbial communities along the L.A. River. Six molecular markers were evaluated for identification of bacteria, plants, fungi, fish, and invertebrates in 90 samples. PCA (principal components analysis) was used with PAM (partitioning around medoids) clustering to reveal community structure and an NB (Negative binomial) model in DESeq2 was used for differential abundance analysis. PCA and factor analysis exposed the main axes of variation but were sensitive to outliers. Differential abundance of Proteobacteria was associated with soft bottom sites, and there was an apparent balance in the abundance of organisms responsible for nitrogen cycling. Nitrogen cycling was explained by differential abundance of ammonia oxidizing archaea, the complete ammonia oxidizers Nitrospira sp., nitrate reducing bacteria Marmoricola sp., and nitrogen fixing bacteria Devosia sp. which were differentially abundant at soft-bottom sites (p adj &lt; 0.002). In contrast, differential abundance of several Cyanobacteria and other anoxygenic phototrophs was associated with the concrete bottom sites, which suggested the accumulation of excess nitrogen. The soft bottom sites tended to be represented by differential abundance of aerobes, whereas the concrete-associated species tended to be alkaliphilic, saliniphilic, calciphilic, sulfate dependent, and anaerobic. In Glendale Narrows, downstream from multiple water reclamation plants, there were differential abundance of cyanobacteria and algae, however indicator species for low nutrient environments and ammonia-abundance were also present. There was differential abundance of ascomycetes associated with Arroyo Seco and a differential abundance of Scenedesmaceae green algae and cyanobacteria in Maywood, in the analysis which compared suburban with urban river communities. The proportion of Ascomycota to Basidiomycota within the LA River differed from the expected proportion based on published worldwide freshwater and river 18S data; the shift in community structure was most likely associated with the extremes of urbanization. This study indicates that extreme urbanization can result in overrepresentation of cyanobacterial species that could cause reductions in water quality and safety.

Objective: To determine blood lead levels (BLL) in a healthy paediatric population and to analyse related sociodemographic, dietary and haematological factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was made of 1,427 healthy subjects aged 1-16 years from the city of Almería (south-eastern Spain). BLL, iron parameters and erythropoietin were determined, and sociodemographic and dietary data obtained. The study data were analysed by multiple logistic regression. Results: The mean BLL was 1.98±1.1 µg/dl (95% CI:1.91–2.04). For 5.7% of the population, mean BLL was 2-5 µg/dl, for 2.1% it was >5 µg/dl and for 0.15% it was >10 µg/dl. Multivariate analysis showed that immigrant origin (OR:11.9; p<0.0001), low level of parental education (OR:4.6; p<0.02) and low dietary iron bioavailability (OR: 3.2; p<0.02) were all risk factors for toxic BLL. Subjects with toxic and non-toxic BLL presented similar iron and erythropoiesis-related parameters, except erythrocyte protoporphyrin, which was significantly higher in the BLL >5 µg/dl group. Conclusions: BLL and the prevalence of toxic BLL in healthy subjects aged 1-16 years living in south-eastern Spain are low and similar to those found in other developed countries. The factors associated with toxic BLL are immigrant origin, low level of parental education and dietary iron deficiency. The toxicity of BLL was not related to changes in the analytical parameters studied.

In the current study, an ethyl acetate extract from the endophytic fungus Aspergillus ochraceus SPH2 isolated from the stem parts of the endemic plant Bethencourtia palmensis was screened for its biocontrol properties against plant pathogens (Fusarium moniliforme, Alternaria alternata and Botrytis cinerea), insect pests (Spodoptera littoralis, Myzus persicae, Rhopalosiphum padi), plant parasites (Meloidogyne javanica) and ticks (Hyalomma lusitanicum). SPH2 gave extracts with strong fungicidal and ixodicidal effects at different fermentation times. The bioguided isolation of these extracts gave compounds 1-3. Mellein (1) showed strong ixodicidal effects and was also fungicidal. This is the first report on the ixodicidal effects of 1. Neoaspergillic acid (2) showed potent antifungal effects. Compound 2 appeared during the exponential phase of the fungal growth while neohydroxyaspergillic acid (3) appeared during the stationary phase, suggesting that 2 is the biosynthetic precursor of 3. Additional molecular ions compatible with pyrazynes that were detected during the exponential phase included flavacol, and aspergilliamide while ochramide A was mostly detected during the stationary phase of the fermentation. Moreover, polyketids were also detected during the sationaty phase of the fermentation curve (dihydroaspyrone, aspyrone, asperlactone) and the alkaloid circumdatin H. Ochratoxin A was not detected. Therefore, SPH2 could be a potential biotechnological tool for the production of ixodicidal mellein.

Cacao is an understory plant cultivated under full-sun monocultures to multi-strata agroforestry systems, where cocoa trees are planted together with fruit, timber, firewood, and leguminous trees, or grown within thinned native forests. Under agroforestry systems of cultivation, cacao is subjected to excess shade due to high density of shade trees, and overgrown or unmanaged pruning of shade trees. Cacao is tolerant to shade, and the maximum photosynthetic rate occurs around irradiance of 400 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹ but excess shade reduces the irradiance further which is detrimental to photosynthesis and growth functions. Intra-specific variation is known to exist in cacao for the required saturation irradiance. A greenhouse study was implemented with 58 cacao genotypes selected from four geographically diverse groups: (i) wild cacao from river basins of the Peruvian Amazon, (PWC), (ii) Peruvian farmers’ collection (PFC), (iii) Brazilian cacao collection (BCC) and (iv) national and international cacao collections (NIC). All the cacao genotypes were subjected to 50% and 80% shade where photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was 1000 and 400 μmol m^-2 ּs^-1 respectively. Intra-specific variations were observed for growth, physiological and nutritional traits, and tolerance to shade. Cacao genotypes tolerant to shade were: UNG-77 and UGU-130 from PWC; ICT-2173, ICT-2142, ICT-2172, ICT-1506, ICT-1087, and ICT-2171 from the PFC; PH-21, CA-14, PH-990 and PH-144 from BCC; and ICS-1, ICS-39, UF-613 and POUND-12 from NIC. Genotypes that tolerate excess shade might be useful plant types to maintain productivity and sustainability in agroforestry systems of cacao management.

As urban areas expand and populations grow, environmental challenges such as the urban heat island effect, air pollution, and light pollution intensify. The urban heat island effect exacerbates extreme heat conditions, leading to prolonged periods of unhealthy and hazardous environments for both humans and other species. This study investigates the thermal environment associated with the urban heat island effect, focusing on the role of trees in mitigating this issue. Using ENVI-met simulations, the study examines various factors influencing tree cooling effectiveness, including seasonal variations, building shading, transpiration rates, tree placement, and spacing. A new tree-planting strategy is developed based on these findings, aiming to enhance thermal comfort. The study compares the thermal environment of sidewalks under the new tree-planting scheme with the existing arrangement across different months. Results indicate that the new scheme reduces UTCI temperatures by 2.2°C on the hottest day, 0.97°C on the coldest day, and 1.52°C annually in the study area of Los Angeles, demonstrating that the cooling benefits of trees in hot weather outweigh the potential drawbacks in cold weather, highlighting its potential to mitigate the urban heat island effect.

Wildfires have continued to increase in frequency and severity in Southern California due in part to climate change. To gain a further understanding of microbial soil communities’ response to fire and functions that may enhance post-wildfire resilience, soil fungal and bacterial microbiomes were studied from different wildfire areas in the Gold Creek Preserve within the Angeles National Forest using 16S, FITS, 18S, 12S, PITS, and CO1 amplicon sequencing. Sequencing datasets from December 2020 and June 2021 samplings were analyzed using DNA Subway, ranacapa, stats, vcd, EZBioCloud, and mixomics. Significant differences were found among bacterial and fungal taxa associated with different fire areas in the Gold Creek Preserve. There was evidence of seasonal shifts in the alpha diversity of the bacterial communities. In the sparse partial least squares analysis, there were strong associations (r>0.8) between longitude, elevation, and a defined cluster of Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs). The Chi-square test revealed differences in fungi:bacteria (F:B) proportions between different trails (p=2*10^-16). sPLS results focused on a cluster of Green Trail samples with high elevation and longitude. Analysis revealed the cluster included the post-fire pioneer fungi Pyronema, and Tremella. Chlorellales algae, and pathogenic Fusarium sequences were elevated. Bacterivorous Corallococcus, which secretes antimicrobials, and bacterivorous flagellate Spumella, were associated with the cluster. There was functional redundancy in clusters that were differently composed, but shared similar ecological functions. These results implied a set of traits for post fire resiliency. These included photo-autotrophy, mineralization of pyrolyzed organic matter and aromatic/oily compounds, pathogenicity and parasitism, antimicrobials, and N-metabolism.

Objectives: This study assessed the associations between parent intent to have their child receive COVID-19 vaccination, and demographic factors and various child activities including attendance at in-person education or childcare. Methods: Persons undergoing COVID-19 testing residing in Minnesota and Los Angeles County, California with children aged <12 years completed anonymous internet-based surveys between May 10 and September 6, 2021 to assess factors associated with intention to vaccinate their child. Factors influencing parents’ decision to have their child attend in person school or childcare were examined. Estimated adjusted odds rations (AORs, 95% CI) were computed between parents’ intentions regarding children’s COVID-19 vaccination and participation in school and extra-curricular activities using multinomial logistic regression. Results: Compared to parents intending to vaccinate their children (n=4,686 [77.2%]), those undecided (n=874 [14.4%] or without intention to vaccinate (n=508 [8.4%]) tended to be younger, non-White, less educated and themselves not vaccinated against COVID-19. Their children more commonly participated in sports (aOR:1.51 1.17-1.95) and in-person faith or community activities (aOR:4.71 (3.62-6.11). They further indicated that additional information regarding vaccine safety and effectiveness would influence their decision. COVID-19 mitigation measures were the most common factors influencing parents’ decision to have their child attend in-person class or childcare. Conclusions: Several demographic and socioeconomic factors are associated with parents’ decision whether to vaccinate their <12-year-old children for COVID-19. Child participation in in-person activities was associated with parents’ intentions not to vaccinate. Tailored communications may be useful to inform parents’ decisions regarding safety and effectiveness of vaccination.

Oligonucleotides are key compounds widely used for research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. The rapid increase in oligonucleotide-based applications, together with the progress in nucleic acids research, led to the design of nucleotide analogs that when being part of these oligomers enhance their efficiency, bioavailability, or stability. One of the most useful nucleotide analogs are the first-generation bridge nucleic acids (BNA), also known as locked nucleic acids (LNA), which were used in combination with ribonucleotides, deoxyribonucleotides, or other analogs to construct oligomers with diverse applications. However, there is still room to improve their efficiency, bioavailability, stability, and, importantly, toxicity. A second generation BNA, BNANC (2'-O,4'-aminoethylene bridged nucleic acid), has been recently made available. Oligomers containing these analogs not only showed less toxicity when compared to LNA-containing compounds but in some cases also exhibited higher specificity. Although there are still few applications where BNANC-containing compounds were researched, the results are very promising warranting more efforts in incorporating these analogs for other applications. Furthermore, newer BNA compounds will be introduced in the near future offering great hope to oligonucleotide-based fields of research and applications.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) significantly affect the lives of patients and increase the risk of hospital stay and amputation. We suggest a remote-monitoring platform for better DFU care. This system uses digital health metrics (scaled from 0 to 10, where higher scores indicate a greater risk of slow healing) to provide a comprehensive overview through a visual interface. The platform features smart offloading devices that capture behavioral metrics such as offloading adherence, daily steps, and cadence. Coupled with remotely measurable frailty and phenotypic metrics, it offers an in-depth patient profile. Additional demographic data, wound characteristics, and clinical parameters, such as cognitive function, were integrated, contributing to a comprehensive risk factor profile. We evaluated the feasibility of this platform with 124 DFU patients over 12 weeks; 39% experienced unfavorable outcomes such as dropout, adverse events, or non-healing. Digital biomarkers were benchmarked (0-10), categorized into low, medium, and high risk for unfavorable outcomes, and visually represented using color-coded radar plots. The initial results of case reports illustrate the value of this holistic visualization to pinpoint the underlying risk factors for unfavorable outcomes, including a high number of steps, poor adherence, and cognitive impairment. Although future studies are needed to validate the effectiveness of this visualization in personalizing care and improving wound outcomes, early results in identifying risk factors for unfavorable outcomes are promising.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize the architectural design and energy management of green buildings, offering significant advancements in sustainability and efficiency. This paper explores the transformative impact of AI on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in commercial buildings. By leveraging AI algorithms, architects can optimize building performance through advanced environmental analysis, automation of repetitive tasks, and real-time data-driven decision-making. AI facilitates precise energy consumption forecasting and integration of renewable energy sources, enhancing the overall sustainability of buildings. Our study demonstrates that AI can reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 8% and 19%, respectively, in typical mid-size office buildings by 2050 compared to conventional methods. Further, the combination of AI with energy efficiency policies and low-emission energy production is projected to yield reductions of up to 40% in energy consumption and 90% in CO2 emissions. This paper provides a systematic approach for quantifying AI's benefits across various building types and climate zones, offering valuable insights for decision-makers in the construction industry.

The construction industry is an important part of the national economic market of various countries; since 2013, the construction industry's added value in the gross domestic product has been more than 6%, reaching 6.89% in 2022, and is a pillar industry of the national economy. Intelligent construction is the realistic demand to promote the high-quality development of China's construction industry. It is the key focus of transforming and upgrading the traditional construction industry to information, digital, and intelligent. As a new production factor, construction robots have become the key to promoting intelligent construction. Under the guidance of various national and industry policies, thanks to China's huge construction market volume and rich application scenarios, many innovative and entrepreneurial entities have entered the field of construction robots. Architectural visualization is a crucial aspect of architectural design and communication. With the development of science and technology, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is increasingly becoming an essential tool for architectural visualization and communication. The emergence of AI technology has provided architects with more flexible and creative ways to present design ideas. All along, designers who love architecture have been passionate about exploring better solutions for architecture, but there is never an optimal solution for architectural design; AI is the fire of the future era; it brings us more opportunities but also forces us to face new challenges from the future.

Traditional painting artefacts study and documentation face the limitations of well-known recording tools and methods, such as handwritten or digital descriptions, scaled 2D drawings in situ, measurements with calipers, rulers or tape measures, sketches, tracings, as well as conventional or technical photographs. This paper advocates Close-Range Photogrammetry (SfM-MVS) and Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) for recording vital morphological and 2.5D geometric features of painted surfaces with high accuracy. These digital tools, widely accessible due to increased computing power, enhance art observation, material study and conservation assessment. Despite specialized alternatives like 3D laser scanners, the focus here is on the cost-effective SfM-MVS and RTI, which offer advanced pixel colour accuracy. The ability to reproduce photorealistic textures proves essential for accurate documentation of painted artefacts. The paper showcases promising results from applying these methods to a mural from the Palace of Tiryns, justifying their fundamental role in an integrated scientific art study methodology.

The application of AI technology in urban planning covers multiple levels, such as data analysis, decision support, and automated planning. Urban research relies on AI technology to understand and summarize the law of urban growth and improve the analysis of the evolution trend of urban space. Planning and design use AI technology to explore the relevant factors affecting urban development and their weights and discuss the critical role of green building technology in the sustainable development of the construction industry. With the increase in global energy consumption and carbon emissions, traditional building methods can no longer meet environmental protection requirements and efficient use of resources. As a sustainable development solution, green building technology has been paid more and more attention to and adopted by people. These technologies focus not only on the energy efficiency and environmental impact of buildings but also on the resource utilization and environmental load of green buildings over their entire life cycle driven by machine learning. This paper details the basic principles and applications of green building technologies, including AI-driven reduction of negative environmental impacts, improvement of occupant health, efficient use of resources, and optimization of indoor environmental quality. This paper focuses on the critical role of the LEED assessment system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council in advancing green building practices. In addition, the paper analyzes vital points such as water use in green building design, machine learning-driven wind environment optimization, solar technology application, and practical application cases of these technologies on a global scale.

Background: The myeloid-epithelial-reproductive tyrosine kinase (MERTK) is involved in hepatic steatosis, inflammation and liver fibrosis. Here we evaluated the association between the MERTK rs4374383 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and liver fibrosis progression in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective study (repeated measures design) in 208 patients who had liver stiffness measurement (LSM), which was assessed by transient elastography No patient had cirrhosis at baseline (LSM≥12.5 kPa). Results: At baseline, 53.8% were male, the median age was 47.1 years, 13.5% reported a high intake of alcohol, 10.1% were prior injection drug users, 85.3% were infected by HCV genotype 1, and 22.6% had previously failed antiviral therapy (pegylated-interferon-alpha/ribavirin). During a median follow-up of 46.6 months, 26 patients developed cirrhosis. The rs4374383 G carriers had a higher risk of increasing LSM (adjusted arithmetic mean ratio (aAMR)=1.14; p=0.006) and a higher likelihood of having an increase in LSM greater than 5 kPa (ΔLSM≥5 kPa) [adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=2.37; p=0.029], and greater than 7 kPa (ΔLSM≥7 kPa) [aOR=3.24; p=0.032], after controlling for confounding. The SNP’s association with cirrhosis progression was close to statistical significance (aOR=2.18; p=0.070). Conclusions: MERTK rs4374383 A carriers had a lower risk of liver fibrosis progression than G carriers, supporting the hypothesis that this SNP seems to have a critical role in the pathogenesis of liver disease in HCV-infected patients.

Nasal high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (nHFOV) has emerged as an effective initial and rescue noninvasive respiratory support mode for preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Multiple noninvasive respiratory support modes are currently available in Romania, but little is known about nHFOV use in Romanian neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). We aimed to identify the usage extent and clinical application of nHFOV in Romania. A structured web-based questionnaire was designed to find the rate of nHFOV use and knowledge of this new method of noninvasive respiratory support in Romanian level III NICUs. The questionnaire was addressed to the leaders of all level III Romanian NICUs. Using multiple-choice, open-ended, and yes/no questions, we collected information on the NICU’s size, noninvasive respiratory support modes used, nHFOV use, indications, settings, nasal interfaces, secondary effects, and equipment used. Descriptive statistics and comparisons were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0. A total of 21/23 (91.3%) leaders from level III NICUs (median [IQR] number of beds of 10 [10-17.5]) responded to the survey. The most frequently used noninvasive ventilation modes were CPAP mode on mechanical ventilators (76.2%), followed by NIPPV (76.2%), heated, humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) (61.9%), and nHFOV (11/21 units; 52.4%); 5/11 units reported frequent nHFOV use (in 2 or more newborns/month) in both term and preterm infants. The main indications reported for nHFOV use were CPAP failure (90.9%), hypercapnia (81.8%), and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (72.7%). 10/11 units reported setting a mean airway pressure (MAP) equal to the CPAP level plus 1-2 cmH₂O on rescue nHFOV after CPAP failure. Both dedicated equipment (45.5%) and hybrid ventilators (63.6%) were used for nHFOV delivery, with face/nasal masks and short binasal prongs being the most commonly used nasal interfaces (90.9% and 72.7%, respectively). Air leaks at the interface level (90.9%), thick secretions (81.8%), and airway obstruction (63.6%) were the most frequently mentioned adverse effects of nHFOV; none of the units mentioned pneumothorax as an adverse effect. Only 3 of the NICUs had a written protocol for nHFOV use. Initial, minimum, and maximum amplitude and initial and minimum MAP settings used were significantly higher with hybrid ventilators as compared to dedicated equipment (p<0.05). Most units not yet using nHFOV cited lack of equipment, experience, training, or insufficient information and evidence for the clinical use and outcome of nHFOV use in neonates as the main reasons for not implementing this noninvasive respiratory mode. Our survey showed that nHFOV is already used in more than half of the Romanian level III NICUs to support term and preterm infants with respiratory distress despite a lack of consensus regarding indications and settings during nHFOV. A need for training for nHFOV use was identified, and efforts are needed at the national level to develop courses and training sessions, including using simulation workshops, to offer more information on optimal nHFOV use in clinical practice.

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are essential components of innate immunity across all species. AMPs have become the focus of attention in recent years as scientists are addressing antibiotic resistance, a public health crisis that has reached epidemic proportions. This family of peptides are a promising alternative to current antibiotics due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and tendency to avoid resistance development. A subfamily of AMPs interact with metal ions to potentiate their antimicrobial effectiveness, as such they have been termed metalloAMPs. In this work, we review the scientific literature of metalloAMPs that enhance their antimicrobial efficacy when combined with the essential metal ion, zinc (II). Beyond the role played by Zn(II) as a cofactor in different systems, it is well-known that this metal ion plays an important role in innate immunity. Here, we classify the different types of synergistic interactions between AMPs and Zn(II) into three distinct classes. By better understanding how each class of metalloAMPs uses Zn(II) to potentiate their activity, researchers can begin to exploit these interactions in the development of new antimicrobial agents and accelerate their use as therapeutics.

Delayed discharge for non-clinical reasons is defined as a period of stay that continues after a patient has been deemed medically fit to leave the hospital but is unable to do so for non-medical reasons. This circumstance overburdens the healthcare system and constitutes a major problem for healthcare systems and the patients themselves in this situation.The aim of this study was to evaluate the delay in effective discharge for non-medical reasons in patients admitted to acute care hospitals in Spain. A scoping review was conducted in order to revise and obtain an up-to-date review. The initial search strategy identified a total of 123 references, which were successively screened to a final selection of 13 studies. To conclude, delayed discharge from hospital for non-clinical reasons is a multifactorial problem. It may be due to factors internal or external to the hospital, as well as personal factors. The main causes of the delay are similar among the studies found, as are the clinical characteristics of the patients, most of whom are elderly, frail, and more dependent due to declining functional capacities. Further studies addressing the socio-familial characteristics of the patients and the perspective of the patient and families would be necessary.

Red fruits such as grapes and blueberries are known for their high content of bioactive compounds and antioxidants. In Mediterranean winemaking, traditional sun drying can be replaced by controlled airflow chamber drying which provides better quality, higher phenolic content, and increased antioxidants. This study aimed to increase the sugar content and phenolic compounds of the must by drying the fruits to 50% of their original moisture content. Two musts were prepared by combining fresh grapes and dried blueberries (M1), and the other using dried grapes and fresh blueberries (M2), followed by fermentation at 25 ºC with M05 Mead and X5 yeast strains. Must M2 showed the highest level of phenolic compounds, A520, total anthocyanins and antioxidant activity. During fermentation, the anthocyanin content increased mainly in the dried blueberry macerates, which raised between 4 to 5.5-fold. More bioactive compounds were extracted from wines produced by yeast inoculation despite shorter maceration times. Sensory analysis demonstrated consumer acceptance of the wines in terms of color, flavor and aroma. In conclusion, the use of red grapes in the production of blueberry red wine proved to be effective, providing sugars and higher must yields, while the dried fruits improved the fermentable sugar content and the levels of bioactive compounds, increasing the antioxidant capacity of the resulting red fruit wines.

RNA transcripts play a crucial role as witnesses of gene expression health. Identifying disruptive short sequences in RNA transcription and regulation is essential for potentially treating diseases. Let’s delve into the mathematical intricacies of these sequences. We’ve previously devised a mathematical approach for defining a “healthy” sequence (10.14218/GE.2023.00079). This sequence is characterized by having at most four distinct nucleotides (denoted as nt≤4). It serves as the generator of a group denoted as fp. The desired properties of this sequence are as follows: fp should be close to a free group of rank nt−1, it must be aperiodic, fp should not have isolated singularities within its SL2(C) character variety (specifically within the corresponding Groebner basis). Now, let’s explore the concept of singularities. There are cubic surfaces associated with the character variety of a four-punctured sphere denoted as S24. When we encounter these singularities, we find ourselves dealing with some algebraic solutions of a dynamical second-order differential (and transcendental) equation known as the Painlevé VI equation (10.3390/dynamics4010001). In certain cases, S24 degenerates, in the sense that two punctures collapse, resulting in a “wild” dynamics governed by the Painlevé equations of an index lower than VI. In our paper, we provide examples of these fascinating mathematical structures within the context of miRNAs. Specifically, we find a clear relationship between decorated character varieties of Painlevé equations and the character variety calculated from the seed of oncomirs. These findings should find applications in cancer research.

This research concerns in to understand the link between urban heat and cool island, the Local Climatic Zones (LCZ) and atmospheric systems during the winter season in the city of Balneário Camboriú, Southern Brazil. To collect meteorological data on urban environmental, 11 permanent points in the Balneário Camboriú metropolitan region were installed. To understand the atmos-pheric systems operating in the region, a synoptic analysis of the dates was performed, and then, the LCZs map created for the city in World Urban Database and Acess Portal Tools was used to cor-relate the magnitudes of the heat and cool islands found in Balneário Camboriú in the winter period. The results indicate that the increasing verticalization with the construction of skyscrapers in Balneário Camboriú has a significant influence on local conditions for the occurrence of heat and cold islands. The findings indicate that LCZs with sparsely distributed buildings (LCZs 6, 8 and 9) and LCZs with dense vegetation (LCZ A) have lower intensity magnitudes of heat and cool con-ditions. The biggest magnitudes of heat and cool islands were reported in LCZs 1 and 3 during the timeframe. The synoptic analysis supports earlier researches that points to atmospheric stability (Anticyclonic domain) as a favorable atmospheric setting for the emergence of urban hear and coolness islands.

Soil salinity is a limiting factor in crop productivity. Inoculating crops with microorganisms adapted to salt stress is an alternative to increasing plant salinity tolerance. Few studies have simultaneously propagated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and dark septate fungi (DSF) using different sources of native inoculum from halophyte plants, and evaluated their effectiveness. This study selected, in alfalfa plants as trap culture, the infectivity of 38 microbial consortia native from rhizospheric soil (19) or roots (19) coming from six halophyte plants, as well as their effectiveness in mitigating salinity stress. Inoculation with soil resulted in 26%-56% colonization by AMF and 12%-32% by DSF. Root inoculation produced 10%-56% and 8%-24% of colonization, respectively. There was no difference in the number of spores of AMF produced with both inoculum types. The effective consortia were selected based on low Na but high P and K shoot concentrations which is relevant for plant nutrition but more for salt stress mitigation. The microbial consortia selection is presented in a more novel and applicable context, which would allow for the production of native microbial inoculants adapted to salinity to diminish the harmful effects of salinity stress in glycophyte plants in the context of sustainable agriculture.

Accurate forecasting and efficient management of commodities are crucial for stakeholders in the industry, given the volatile nature of these markets. This study addresses these needs by leveraging advanced forecasting techniques and machine learning models to predict prices and enhance supply chain efficiency. TThe focus is on utilizing ARIMA, SARIMAX, and LSTM models to analyze historical trading data for commodities such as cocoa, coffee, and sugar sourced from Kaggle’s comprehensive dataset. The research applies ARIMA and SARIMAX models to forecast price trends, overcoming initial challenges related to data index frequency and seasonality. LSTM models are employed for more nuanced demand forecasting, particularly for random-length lumber, demonstrating the model's capability to predict future market trends accurately. The study highlights significant improvements in prediction accuracy and supply chain management through meticulous feature engineering and model optimization, offering valuable insights for strategic decision-making in the supply chain sector.

The meridian line is a basic instrument for positional astronomy, it was used to study the motion of Sun, Moon, planets and the position of stars by measuring position and time of their passage through the meridian plane. The accuracy of such positions was dependent on precise theories of the atmospheric refraction (Cassini, 1655 and Laplace, 1825) and by the use of reference marks present originally on the meridian line, and now cancelled by the centuries. From October 27, 2018 the new pinhole of the meridian line in the Basilica of S. Maria degli Angeli in Rome (1702) is a circle 25 mm wide and 6.11 mm thick and its position is fixed, in order to perform a series of observations of astrometric quality, the IGEA campaign. The comparison of the observed positions of the meridian passages of the Sun, Southern and Northern limbs, with the ephemerides of Calsky.org and Stellarium 0.20.2 for the Sun are examined for the dates of the ingresses into the zodiacal signs, when the ecliptic longitude is exactly 0°/180° (Aries and Libra, spring and fall equinox), 30°/150° (Taurus, Virgo), 60°/120° (Gemini, Leo), 90° (Cancer), 330°/210° (Pisces, Scorpio), 300°/240° (Aquarius/Sagittarius), 270° (Capricorn). The former geometrical calibration of the marks present on the line, with a total station, is compared with another calibration done with a metal and laser meter. The first star on the floor of the Basilica representing the position of the Sun on August 20, 1702 when the pope Clement XI visited the meridian line, financed by him, has been calibrated with the solar image. The present pinhole is 4.4±0.1 mm South with respect to the original one of 1702.

The p53 tumor suppressor protein shows antiviral activity. The replication of viruses is also antagonized by interferons (IFNs) – cytokines, which control immunity genes by the STAT transcription factors. The best studied interferons belong to type I (e.g. IFNα) and type II (IFNγ) groups. IFNα and IFNγ both induce activating phosphorylation of STAT1 on Tyr701. Previously, we noticed that p53 activates SOCS1, which is a negative regulator of STAT1 phosphorylation. Thus, we hypothesized that p53 by activating SOCS1 expression reduces phosphorylation of STAT1 and attenuates activation of genes stimulated either by IFNα or IFNγ. To test this hypothesis, we exposed p53-proficient and p53-deficient cells to strong p53 activators, and either to IFNα or IFNγ. Subsequently, we estimated the phosphorylation status of STAT1 and the expression of genes regulated by either of these cytokines. Strong activation of p53 reduced the phosphorylation of STAT1 on Tyr701, however surprisingly it did not lead to reduced expression of most tested interferon-stimulated genes. On contrary, p53 and IFNγ synergized in the activation of CASP1, IFIT1 and IFIT3 genes. We conclude that the interactions between p53 and interferon-activated pathways are more complicated than initially expected, but the apparent cooperation between p53 and IFNγ deserves further studies.

In recent decades, perovskite-type compounds (ABB′O3) have been exhaustively studied due to their unique ferroelectric properties. In this work, a systematic study aiming to prepare fine particles in the binary system SrZrO₃–SrTiO₃ was conducted under hydrothermal conditions in a KOH (5 M) solution at 200 °C for 4 h under a constant stirring speed of 130 rpm. The precursors employed were SrSO₄ powder (&lt; 38 μm size) and coprecipitated hydrous gels of Zr(OH)₄•9.64 H₂O (Zr-gel) and Ti(OH)₄•4.5H₂O (Ti-gel), which were mixed according to the stoichiometry of the SrZr_1-xTixO₃ in the compositional range of 0.0&gt;x&gt;100.0 mol% Ti⁴⁺. The XRD results revealed the formation of two crystalline phases rich in Zr⁴⁺, an orthorhombic structured SrZr0.93Ti0.07O3 and a cubic structured SrZr0.75Ti0.25O3 within the compositional range of 0.1–0.5 mol of Ti4+. A cubic perovskite-structured solid solution, SrTi1-xZrxO3, was preferentially formed within the compositional range of 0.5&gt;x&gt;0.1 mol% Ti⁴⁺. The SrZrO₃ and SrZr_0.93Ti_0.07O₃-rich phases had particle sizes averaging 3 m with a cubic morphology. However, a remarkable reduction in the particle size occurred on solid solutions prepared with hydrous Ti-gel over contents of 15 mol% Ti⁴⁺ in the reaction media, resulting in the formation of nanosized particles agglomerates with cuboidal shape self-assembled via a 3D hierarchical architecture, the sizes of these particles varied in the range between 141.0–175.5 nm. The limited coarsening of the particles is discussed based on the Zr-gel and Ti-gel dehydration capability differences that occurred under hydrothermal processing.

The biofilm is a conglomerate of cells surrounded by an extracellular matrix, which contributes to the persistence of infections. The difficulty in removing the biofilm drives the research for new therapeutic options. In this work, the effect of terpenes (-)-trans-Caryophyllene, (S)-cis-Verbenol, (S)-(-)-Limonene, (R)-(+)-Limonene, and linalool was evaluated, individually and in combinations on bacterial growth, by assay with resazurin; the formation of biofilm, by assay with violet crystal; and the expression of associated genes, by real-time PCR, in two clinical isolates of S. aureus, ST30-t019 and ST5-t311, responsible for more than 90% of pediatric infections by this pathogen in Paraguay. All combinations of terpenes can inhibit biofilm formation in more than 50% without affecting bacterial growth. The most effective combination was (-)-trans-Caryophyllene and linalool at a 500 μg/mL concentration for each, with an inhibition percentage of 88%. This combination decreased the expression levels of the sdrD, spa, agr, and hld genes associated with the initial cell adhesion stage and quorum sensing. At the same time, it increased the expression levels of the cap5B and cap5C genes related to the production of capsular polysaccharides. The combinations of compounds tested are promising alternatives to inhibit biofilm formation in S. aureus.

Polyalcohol liquefaction can be done by acid or basic catalysis producing polyols with different properties. This study compared the mechanical properties of foams produced using polyols from liquefied Cytisus scoparius obtained by acid and basic catalysis and using two different foam catalysts. The differences were monitored using FTIR analysis. Acid-catalyzed liquefaction yielded 95.1 %, with the resultant polyol having an OH index of 1081 mg KOH/g while basic catalysis yielded 82.5 %, with a similar OH index of 1070 mg KOH/g. Generally, compressive strength with dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) ranged from 16 - 31 kPa (acid-liquefied polyol) and 12 -21 kPa (base-liquefied polyol), while with stannous octoate (TIN), it ranged from 17 - 42 kPa (acid) and 29 - 68 kPa (base). Increasing water content generally decreased the compressive modulus and strength of foams. Higher water content led to a higher absorption at 1670 cm-1 in the FTIR spectrum due to the formation of urea. Higher isocyanate indices generally improved compressive strength, but high amounts led to unreacted isocyanate that could be seen by a higher absorption at 2265 cm-1 and 3290 cm-1. DBTL was shown to be the best foam catalyst due to higher trimer conversion seen in the spectra by a higher absorption at 1410 cm-1. Acid and base-derived polyols lead to different polyurethane foams with different FTIR spectra, particularly with a higher absorption at 1670 cm-1 for foams from acid-derived liquefaction.

In this paper we explore the known connection among sustainability, resilience, and well-being within the framework of active inference. Initially, we revisit how the notions of well-being and resilience intersect within active inference before defining sustainability. We adopt a holistic concept of sustainability denoting the enduring capacity to meet needs over time without depleting crucial resources. It extends beyond material wealth to encompass community networks, labor, and knowledge. Using the Free Energy Principle, we can emphasize the role of fostering resource renewal, harmonious system-entity exchanges, and practices that encourage self-organization and resilience as pathways to achieving sustainability, both in an agent and in collectives. We start by connecting Active Inference with well-being, building on exsiting work. We then attempt to link resilience with sustainability, asserting that resilience alone is insufficient for sustainable outcomes. While crucial for absorbing shocks and stresses, resilience must be intrinsically linked with sustainability to ensure that adaptive capacities do not merely perpetuate existing vulnerabilities. Rather, it should facilitate transformative processes that address the root causes of unsustainability. Sustainability, therefore, must manifest across extended timescales and all system strata, from individual components to the broader system, to uphold ecological integrity, economic stability, and social well-being. We explain how sustainability manifests at the level of an agent, and then at the level of collectives and systems. To model and quantify the interdependencies between resources and their impact on overall system sustainability, we introduce the application of network theory and dynamical systems theory. We emphasize the optimization of precision or learning rates through the active inference framework, advocating for an approach that fosters the elastic and plastic resilience necessary for long-term sustainability and abundance.

Background: The aim was to diagnose Candida in the oral cavity of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using a genotyping technique and to compare the results with those from con-ventional diagnosis by Papanicolau (Pap) staining. Methods: Palatal mucosa smears were per-formed in 18 dental care patients diagnosed with T2DM and grade I, II, and III prosthetic stomatitis who met the inclusion criteria; 18 healthy control subjects were also included in the study. He-moglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were determined from total blood. Using exfoliative cytology, the Pap staining technique was used to diagnose candidiasis. Exfoliative cytology was also used for molecular diagnosis; DNA was obtained for Candida genotyping and RNA was used for gene ex-pression studies. Results: Clinical patterns indicated that all subjects were positive for Candida; however, Pap analysis revealed only three positive subjects, whereas end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed fifteen subjects with some type of Candida. The most common Candida species found were Candida guilliermondii (38.8%), Candida krusei (33.3%), Candida tropicalis, and Candida lusitaniae (22.2%). Interestingly, the coexpression of different species of Candida was found in various patients. In all patients, HbA1c levels were increased. Gene expression analysis showed a significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in TLR2 expression in positive subjects, whereas TLR4 expression did not differ significantly among patients. Conclusions: The end-point PCR technique showed better sensitivity for diagnosis of Candida when compared with diagnosis by Pap staining. T2DM subjects showed an increased presence of C. guilliermondii that was correlated with decreased TLR2 expression

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a relatively frequent, chronic disease that impacts significantly the patient’s quality of life. Although many therapeutic options are available, additional approaches are needed because many patients either do not respond to current therapies or show significant side effects. Cardiotrophin-1 (CT-1) is a cytokine with potent cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. The purpose of this study was to assess if the administration of CT-1 could reduce colon damage in mice with experimental UC. UC was induced with 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in the drinking water. Some mice received i.v. dose of CT-1 (200 µg/kg) 2 hours before and 2 and 4 days after DSS administration. Animals were followed during 7 days after DSS. The severity of UC was measured by standard scores. Colon damage was assessed by histology and immunohistochemistry. Inflammatory mediators were measured by Western blot and PCR. CT-1 administration to DSS-treated mice ameliorated both the clinical course (disease activity index), histological damage, inflammation (colon expression of TNF-α, IL-17, IL-10, INF-γ, and iNOS), and apoptosis. Our results suggest that CT-1 administration before UC induction improves the clinical course, tissue damage and inflammation degree in DSS-induced UC in mice.

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a conserved “stress hormone” in unicellular organisms, plants and animals. In mammals, ABA and its receptors LANCL1 and LANCL2 stimulate insulin-independent cell glucose uptake and oxidative metabolism: overexpression of LANCL1/2 increases, and their si-lencing conversely reduces, mitochondrial number, respiration and proton gradient dissipation in muscle cells and in brown adipocytes. We hypothesized that the ABA/LANCL hor-mone/receptors system could be involved in thermogenesis. Heat production by LANCL1/2-overexpressing vs. double-silenced cells was compared in rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes with two different methods: differential temperature measurements using sensitive thermistor probes, and differential isothermal calorimetry. Results indicate that overexpressing cells generate an approx. double amount of thermal power compared with double-silenced cells, and that addition of ABA further doubles heat production in overexpressing cells. With the temperature probes, we find a time-scale of approx. 4 min for thermogenesis to “turn on” after nutrient addition. These results identify the ABA/LANCL hormone receptors system as a hitherto unknown regu-lator of cell thermogenesis. Pharmacologic means of increasing metabolic energy dissipation are considered a promising strategy to reduce oxidative stress and lipid accumulation at a cellular and organismic level: from this study, LANCL1-2 proteins emerge as targetable controllers of ther-mogenesis through their natural ligand ABA.

Abstract: Neurofibroma is a type of benign tumor that affects the peripheral nerves. It can be classified into three subtypes: localized, diffuse, and plexiform, with localized being the most prevalent. Although uncommon, neurofibromas can appear as diffuse tumors that impact the skin and underlying tissues of the head, neck, and body in young individuals and children. Diffuse neurofibromas are characterized by thickened, indurated, and ill-defined skin lesions that often invade underlying tissues. We present a unique case of a 45-year-old Caucasian woman who developed debilitating headaches caused by a gradually enlarging diffuse neurofibroma on her scalp and a comprehensive review of diffuse neurofibroma and its differential diagnosis. Although diffuse neurofibromas are less common in middle-aged individuals, they should still be considered a possible diagnosis in infiltrative and indurated skin lesions. Identifying its characteristic histopathological findings to diagnose diffuse neurofibroma accurately is crucial since its clinical presentations can vary.

The p53 tumor suppressor protein is an activator of transcription. Diverse stress factors lead to various sets of posttranslational modifications of p53 what results in different sets of upregulat-ed genes. We noticed that actinomycin D and nutlin-3a (A+N) synergize in inducing activating phosphorylations of p53 and upregulation of selected p53-target genes. Here we found that one of these genes is DUSP13, which codes for poorly-studied, dual-specificity phosphatase having at least two isoforms, one expressed in testis and the other in skeletal muscles. In cancer cells ex-posed to A+N, DUSP13 is expressed from an alternative promoter in intron, what results in ex-pression of isoform named TMDP-L1. The luciferase reporter tests demonstrated that this pro-moter is activated by both endogenous and ectopically expressed p53. We showed for the first time that mRNA expressed from this promoter actually produces the protein, which can be de-tected by Western blotting in all examined cancer cell lines with wild-type p53 exposed to A+N. In some cell lines it is also induced by clinically relevant camptothecin or by nutlin-3a acting alone. This isoform, fused with green fluorescent protein localizes in perinuclear region of cells. Thus, TMDP-L1 isoform may be an important element of p53-regulated stress response system.

How hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) fate decisions are affected by genetic alterations acquired during AML leukemogenesis is poorly understood and mainly explored in animal models. Here, we studied isocitrate dehydrogenases (IDH) genes mutations in the human model of HSPC and provide a review of the literature on this topic. IDH1/2 mutations occur in ~20% of AML, are recognized among the mutations earliest acquired during leukemogenesis, and are target of specific inhibitors (ivosidenib and enasidenib, respectively). In order to investigate the direct effects of these mutations on the HSPC we expressed by lentiviral transduction either IDH1-R132H or IDH2-R140Q mutants into human CD34+ healthy donor cells and analyzed the colony-forming unit (CFU) ability. CFU ability was dramatically compromised with a complete trilineage block of differentiation. Strikingly, the block was reversed by the specific inhibitors, confirming it was a specific effect induced by the mutants. In line with this observation, the CD34+ leukemic precursors isolated from a patient with IDH2-mutated AML at baseline and during enasidenib treatment showed over time a progressive and marked improvement of their fitness in terms of CFU ability and propensity to differentiate, attaining clonal trilinear reconstitution of hematopoiesis and complete hematological remission.

Background: Our study investigates the prevalence and causes of injuries among undergraduate dental students during clinical sessions. Methods: The study was conducted at the Department of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, focusing on injuries reported from 2021 to 2024. Data were collected through self-reported questionnaires and clinical records. The primary variables assessed included the type of injury, the instrument involved, the clinical procedure being performed, and the immediate actions taken post-injury. Serological testing was conducted on both students and patients to assess the risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission. Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of injuries, with needles being the most common cause, followed by burs and dental probes. The most frequent injury type was piercing, primarily affecting the fingers. Periodontal treatments, restorative procedures, and endodontic treatments were the main activities leading to injuries. Despite normal medical records for most patients treated by injured students, serological testing showed significant positivity rates for HCV and HBV. It is noteworthy that most injured students demonstrated their commitment to safety by adhering to recommended post-exposure protocols, including wound cleaning, disinfecting, and serological testing. Our study highlights the critical need for enhanced biosafety awareness and training among dental students to reduce injury risks. Conclusions: These findings underline the necessity for integrated safety protocols and continuous education to improve clinical practices and ensure student safety.

Throughout the Covid19 period, families were forced to stay indoors, adapting to online school-ing, remote work, and virtual social engagements, inevitably altering the dynamics within households. There is a notable increase in mental health challenges in terms of anxiety and de-pression in children and adolescents. This study intends to explore the psychosocial effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in Italian families adopting self- and proxy-report questionnaires on anxiety, anger, and health-related quality of life. The results showed that approximately 20% obtained a clinical anxiety score and only 10% obtained a clinical anger score. There was found a difference in the perception of the quality of life reported by the child and that perceived by the parent. The stepwise regression model showed that total anxiety scores were predicted by sex, quality of life scores from the parents' self-report version and total anger score. Another stepwise regression model identified physiological and social anxiety as the best predictors that impact the quality of life. Parental well-being actively influences the well-being of children, so it is fundamental to implement preventive programmes and promote child well-being providing parents the most adequate support possible.

IBD, encompassing CD and UC, are characterized by chronic gastrointestinal inflammation due to abnormal immune responses to gut microflora. The bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain, known as the GBA, is disrupted in IBD, leading to neurobiological imbalances and affective symptoms. Systemic inflammation in IBD affects the brain's inflammatory response system, hormonal axis, and BBB integrity, influencing gut microbiota and clinical responses to probiotics. This review aims to explore the links between dysregulations in the GBA, serum biomarkers, and the development of MCI and NDDs. The objective is to identify potential correlations and propose future research directions to understand the impact of altered microbiomes and intestinal barrier functions on NDDs. Studies suggest a potential link between IBD and extraintestinal complications such as MCI and NDDs. Mechanisms include systemic inflammation, BBB dysfunction, autoimmune responses, GBA dysfunction, medication effects, and comorbidities. Serum biomarkers, including vitamin D3, C-reactive protein, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, vitamin B12, homocysteine, serum amyloid, neuron-specific enolase, neurofilament light chain, S100 proteins, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, IL-6, LP-2 associated phospholipase, prostaglandin E2, IL-1β, and TNF-α, have been investigated for their potential to predict MCI but current results are lacking clarity.

Academics in healthcare grapple with the challenge of efficiently managing time while addressing diverse roles and responsibilities, leading to heightened levels of anxiety and stress within the academic community. The primary objective of this study is to offer a sustainable and systemic solution to the prevalent time-management challenges in healthcare academia, through the development of a predictive model. Employing systemic analysis software and adopting a systemic management approach, we crafted a model to address academic time-management concerns. The dynamics of time allocation for academicians are governed by three fundamental pillars: teaching, research, and administrative tasks. Significantly prioritizing administrative tasks depletes valuable academic time, making time management within academia excessively costly. This occurs as highly skilled individuals find themselves diverted towards administrative duties at the expense of their academic roles diminishing resilience levels. The proposed Timebooster Academic Systemic Model (TASM) advocates for the cultivation of soft skills in academia, en-compassing prioritization, seeking assistance, and addressing tendencies of perfectionism and procrastination. Additionally, TASM recommends the implementation of full automation, delegation of administrative responsibilities, and the mitigation of both overt and covert time-consuming elements. Furthermore, TASM reports on the pivotal role of the academic resilient manager-leaders, who actively contribute to their own satisfaction and academic growth by enhancing collaboration and teamwork. Time-management challenges emerge as a critical determinant of academic well-being and resilience. Systemic models, exemplified by TASM, offer a valuable framework for investigating prioritization concerns, identifying administrative impediments in academic processes, and managing low-value time-consuming elements. The TASM model, along with the systemic philosophy underpinning its design, presents an avenue for advancing the exploration of time-management phenomena within the context of healthcare academia.

Current hydrogen production is based on the reforming process leading to the emission of pollutants; therefore, a substitute production method is imminently required. Water electrolysis is an ideal alternative for large-scale hydrogen production, as it does not produce any carbon-based pollutant byproducts. Production of green hydrogen from water electrolysis using intermittent sources (e.g., solar, eolic) would facilitate clean energy storage. However, the electrocatalysts currently required for water electrolysis are noble metals, making this potential option expensive and inaccessible for industrial applications. Therefore, there is a need to develop electrocatalysts based on earth-abundant and low-cost metals. Nickel-based electrocatalysts are a fitting alternative because they are economically accessible. Extensive research has focused on developing nickel-based electrocatalysts for hydrogen and oxygen evolution. Theoretical and experimental work have addressed the elucidation of these electrochemical processes and the role of heteroatoms, structure, and morphology. Even though some works tend to be contradictory, they have lit up the path for efficient nickel-based electrocatalysts. For these reasons, herein, a review of recent progress is presented.

Bacterial endophytes (120) were isolated from six halophytes (Distichlis spicata, Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis obtusiflora, Suaeda torreyana, Kochia scoparia, and Baccharis salicifolia). These halophiles were molecularly identified and characterized with or without NaCl conditions. Characterization was based on tests such as indole acetic acid (IAA), exopolysaccharides (EPS), and siderophores (SID) production; solubilization of phosphate (P), potassium (K), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn); mineralization of phytate; enzymatic activity (acid and alkaline phosphatase, phytases, xylanases, and chitinases) and mineralization/solubilization mechanisms involved (organic acids and sugars). Eleven halophiles (tolerated NaCl 2.5 M) were identified as Oceanobacillus sp. (1), Bacillus sp. (2), Nesterenkonia sp. (3), Bacillus velezensis (4), Halobacillus sp. (5), Oceanobacillus sp. (6), B. velezensis (7) Halomonas sp. (8), B. pumilus (9), Pseudomonas sp. (10) and Oceanobacillus sp. (11). Biochemical responses of nutrient solubilization and enzymatic activity varied between bacteria and the presence of NaCl. Organic acids were involved in P-mineralization and nutrient solubilization. Tartaric acid was common in the solubilization of P, Zn, and K. Maleic and vanillic acid were only detected in Zn and K solubilization, respectively. Moreover, sugars appeared to be involved in the solubilization of nutrients; fructose was detected in solubilization tests. Therefore, these bacteria should be tested as a consortium to mitigate saline stress in glycophytes under a global climate change scheme that threatens to exacerbate soil salinity.

Background Cervical insufficiency, marked by recurrent painless cervix dilation leading to second-trimester pregnancy losses, is traditionally managed through cerclage placement and vaginal progesterone administration. However, a recent experimental approach targeted intra-amniotic inflammation or infection in a selected group of women with cervical dilation over 1 cm, intact membranes, and no uterine contractions in the second or third trimester. Case presentation We report a case of a 21 year old primigravid woman who experienced resolution of mid-trimester cervical insufficiency after the administration of triple antibiotic therapy, as confirmed by ultrasound monitoring. Remarkably, the patient successfully carried the pregnancy to term and delivered a healthy baby. Conclusions This case highlights the potential effectiveness of a novel combination of antibiotics, even in the presence of several high-risk pregnancy conditions, and underscores the possibility of a favorable outcome.

This paper presents the results of investigations on the kinetic of Brilliant Blue FCF (BB) discoloration reactions in aqueous solutions with different ozone concentrations and pH conditions. Kinetic studies involve knowledge of the structure and properties of the dye and ozone, as well as the experimental conditions. In general, scientists admit that the predominant oxidation pathway is direct (by free oxygen atoms) or indirect (by free hydroxyl radicals), it will depend on influencing factors such as: the physicochemical properties of the dye, the pH of the aqueous solution, ozone concentration, reaction time and the contact mode with/without stirring. In the experimental research, two pathways were chosen following CBB = f(t): 1. constant dye concentration and different ozone concentration on the concentration range (100 - 250 mg/L) at three pH media (acidic, neutral and basic) with and without stirring; 2. Constant concentration of ozone and different dye in the range of concentrations (2.5 - 10 mg/L) under the conditions of point 1. With obtained experimental data the curves CBB = f(t) were drawn and were processed by the integral method of classical kinetic based on first and second order equations. Unfortunately, this simple procedure this not yield any minim full results and any pH level. The rate constants been negative and/or the reaction order been dependent on initial conditions. Due to its structure, the BB dye has several chromophore groups, thus multiple attack centers, resulting in more oxidation by-products, which is why the 1H - NMR spectrum of BB discoloration with ozone was recorded.

Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) is currently the most widely used method for positioning using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) due to its accuracy, efficiency and ease of use. In forestry, position is a critical factor for numerous applications, with GNSS nowadays the preferred solution for obtaining such data. However, the decreased performance of GNSS observations in challenging environments, such as under the forest canopy, must be considered. This paper analyzes the performance of a survey-grade GNSS receiver under coniferous/deciduous tree cover, with short observation times of 30 seconds and corrections received in the field from a Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) of the national RTK network in Romania. 84 test points were determined, randomly distributed under the canopy, with reference data collected by topographical surveys using total station equipment. Relatively good accuracies were obtained, especially for horizontal position (RMSEs of 1.47 – 2.07 meters). The variation of GNSS performance under the different forest compositions was found to be statistically significant, while GNSS-specific factors such as DOP values only influenced the precision and not the accuracy of observations. We established that this methodology offers sufficient accuracy, application-dependent, even if the majority of GNSS solutions were code-based, rather than carrier phase-based, due to strong interference from the vegetation.

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

Hazelnut shells (HS), scientifically known as Corylus avellana L. shells, are a waste produced in companies that process nuts. The main objective of this study was to find an efficient way to maximize the chemical potential of HS by solubilizing the hemicelluloses, which could then be used to recover sugars and at the same time increase the lignin content of this material in order to produce adhesives or high strength foams. In order to optimize the pre-hydrolysis process, two different temperatures (160 and 170 C) and times varying from 15 to 180 min were tested. All the remaining solid materials were then liquefied by polyalcohols with acid catalysis. The chemical composition of hazelnut shells was determined before and after the pre-hydrolysis. All the process was monitored by FTIR-ATR by determining the spectra of solids and liquids after pre-hydrolisis and liquefactions steps. The highest solubilization of hazelnut shells was found for 170 C and 180 min, resulting in a 25.8% solubilization. Chemical analysis after the hydrolysis process showed a gradual increase in the solubilization of hemicelluloses as both the temperature and time of the reactor were increased. Simultaneously, the percentages of α-cellulose and lignin in the material also increased with rises in temperature and duration. FTIR-ATR allowed for the detection of significant spectral changes in the hazelnut shells from their initial state to the solid residue and further into the liquefied phase. This confirmed that pre-hydrolysis was effective in enhancing the chemical composition of the material, making it more suitable for the production of adhesives or polyurethane foams with enhanced mechanical strength.

In the area of dental healthcare services, where patients and professionals deal with multiple auditory stimuli, this cross-sectional study reports on the intricate dynamics of sound preferences, noise obstacles, and the profound impact of music on anxiety reduction within dental office set-tings. The sample comprises of 134 dental patients, primarily females (56.7%), with varying age groups, education levels, and therapy durations in the university clinics of the department of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and four private dental offices at the metropolitan area of Athens, Greece. Notably, 92.5% of the participants report no hearing loss, and 56.7% exhibit some level of noise sensitivity. The study reveals a moderate to good perceived health status (M=3.84, SD=0.95) among participants, with low perceived noise disturbance in university dental clinics. Preferences for instrumental music, foreign pop, and classical music are prominent during waiting times. Potential irritations include impersonal treatment (44%) and staff behavior (41.8%). Music player usage within the settings of the dental clinic involves radios (49.3%) and headphones (41.0%). Correlations and predictors indicate associations between health status, music preferences, and noise disturbances. More specifically, visiting the university dental clinics (β = .300, p = .005) as well as younger age (β = .300, p = .034) were significant predictors of better perceived health status. Clearer perception of external sounds while using the music player (β = .190, p = .039) was a significant predictor of better perceived health status, while poorer health was predicted by the preference of Greek folk songs (β = -.200, p = .030). Also, the use of smartphones for playing music was related to poorer health (β = -.370, p < .001). Following, younger age (β = -.270, p = .015), lower education (β = -.210, p = .035), higher noise sensitivity (β = .190, p = .027), as well as feelings of anxiety and nervousness due to ambient noise from people and machines (β = .510, p = .027) were significant predictors of noise disturbance from machines. Also, visiting private clinics (β = .240, p = .018), preferences of specific playlist (β = .310, p = .012), no music (β = .280, p = .016) and use of smartphones to play music (β = .230, p = .029) were significant predictors of noise disturbance from patients or staff. Finally, the preference of listening to a specific playlist was related to better health status (r = .190, p < .05). Findings aim to optimize eco-soundscapes in dental offices, con-tributing to enhanced patient well-being. The research underscores the potential of music inter-ventions to alleviate dental anxiety and improve the overall dental experience and quality care.

This study examines the attitudes and practices of dentists and dental students towards envi-ronmental issues within their professional context. Data was selected based on their responses on a Google Forms e-questionnaire, designed specifically for the study. The sample consisted of 78 professional dentists and 75 dental students in Greece and their attitudes towards environmental protection, awareness of the environmental impact of dental practices, and factors influencing the adoption of environmentally friendly practices were assessed. Results reveal generally positive attitudes towards environmental protection, with students demonstrating higher levels of proper waste management practices. Dentists express awareness of their environmental impact but ex-hibit varying levels of engagement in eco-friendly practices. Factors such as moral consciousness and believing in the severity of climate change significantly influence environmental awareness in dental practice. Notably, dental students exhibit greater environmental awareness compared to practicing dentists. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating environmental edu-cation into dental curricula and continuing education programs to foster sustainable practices in dental care. Future research could explore interventions to enhance environmental consciousness among practicing dentists and assess the long-term impact of environmental education initiatives on dental care sustainability.

Natural gas plays a significant role in Tunisia's energy mix. Tunisia imports 66% of natural gas (NG) from Algeria (ANG), and the rest is provided by local gas fields mainly Miskar gas (MNG). To counteract this deficit, the Power-to-Gas approach emerges as a promising solution, given Tunisia's abundant renewable energy resources. By blending green hydrogen into the NG network, it is possible to (i) address the current energy crisis, (ii) lower the carbon intensity of the gas grid, and (iii) encourage sector coupling through the use of various renewable energy sources. This study presents an overview of various interchangeability indicators and investigates accordingly the allowable ratios for hydrogen blending with two types of natural gas distributed in Tunisia (ANG and MNG). It also explores the impact of hydrogen injection on the energy content variation and various combustion parameters. The results confirm that both ANG and MNG can withstand a maximum hydrogen blend of up to 20%. The article concludes with recommendations for further experimental testing of the findings and emphasizes the need to look into infrastructure and safety requirements with regards to the Natural gas network in Tunisia. This research serves as a critical step towards harnessing the potential of green hydrogen in Tunisia.

Coxiella burnetii (Derrick) Philip, the causative agent of Q fever, is mainly transmitted by aerosols, but ticks can also be a source of infection. Transstadial and transovarical transmission of C. burnetii by Hyalomma lusitanicum (Koch) has been suggested. There is a close relationship between this tick species, wild animals and C. burnetii but the transmission in a natural environment has not been demonstrated. In this study, we collected 80 engorged nymphs of H. lusitanicum from red deer and wild rabbits. They molt to adults under laboratory conditions and we feed them artificially through silicone membranes after a preconditioning period. C. burnetii DNA was tested in ticks, blood and feces samples using real-time PCR. The pathogen was found in 36.25% of fed adults demonstrating that transstadial transmission from nymph to adult occurs in nature. The presence of DNA in the 60% of blood samples confirms that adults transmit the bacteria during feeding. Further studied are needed about co-feeding and other possible transmission routes to define the role of this tick species in the cycle of C. burnetii.

The applicability of the distance aggregation problem has attracted the interest of many authors. Motivated by this fact, in this paper we face the modular quasi-(pseudo-)metric aggregation problem. We characterize those functions that allow merging a collection of modular quasi-(pseudo-)metrics into a single one. Specifically, a description of such functions in terms of triangle triplets is given and, in addition, the relationship between modular quasi-(pseudo-)metric aggregation functions and modular (pseudo-)metric aggregation functions is discussed. Such characterizations are illustrated with appropriate examples. A few methods to construct modular quasi-(pseudo-)metrics are yielded. Several properties of modular quasi-(pseudo-)metric aggregation functions are explored and used to develop quick tests for discarding candidate functions to aggregate modular quasi-(pseudo-)metrics. Moreover, a characterization of those modular quasi-(pseudo-)metric aggregation functions that preserve modular quasi-(pseudo-)metrics is also provided. Furthermore, the relationship between modular quasi-(pseudo-)metric aggregation functions and quasi-(pseudo-)metric aggregation functions is studied in such a way that significative differences are displayed.

Background: Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) believe that diet is a key factor in the pathogenesis of their disease and in worsening their symptoms; they often follow restrictive diets that can lead to malnutrition, anxiety, and stress. Recent studies have found an association between eating disorders and IBD, particularly anorexia nervosa and ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). None of these studies report the association with orthorexia nervosa, that is the obsession with healthy and natural foods. Aim: to assess the risk of orthorexia nervosa in patients with IBD. Methods: 158 consecutive subjects were recruited, including 113 patients diagnosed with IBD and 45 controls. The Donini standardized questionnaire ORTO-15 was administered to assess the risk of orthorexia; clinical and demographic data were also collected. Results: patients with IBD have a prevalence of orthorexia of 77%, significantly higher than the 47% observed in the control group. In patients with IBD, the risk of orthorexia is associated with lower BMI and history of previous surgery. Conclusion: Many patients with IBD develop orthorexia nervosa that impacts the patient's psychological and social sphere, exposes them to a high risk of nutritional deficiencies, and affects quality of life. Further high quality studies are warranted to evaluate the clinical impact of orthorexia and its correlation with clinical features and frank eating disorders.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to apply the Composite Radiographic Index modified (CRIm) in CBCT scans of patients with Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) in order to detect its validity, and corelate the radiologic findings with the clinical staging of the disease. Methods: This study included 43 patients with MRONJ diagnosis and CBCT scans performed in the School of Dentistry and approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Clinical staging for every patient (0-3) was provided according to AAOMS 2022 guidelines. In cases of patients with both jaws affected, each jaw was evaluated independently resulting to 52 CBCT scans. The 52 CBCT scans were assessed under standardized viewing conditions by 2 observers who evaluated independently the following 8 radiologic features: lytic changes, sclerosis, periosteal reaction, sequestration, non-healing extraction sockets and other findings (sinus implication, inferior alveolar canal involvement, jaw fracture). The CRIm index was constructed to assess the extent of osseous changes. The radiologic features were scored as absent (0), localized/single (1), extensive/multiple (2), yielding a theoretical range of 0–12. For statistical analysis Fisher’s exact test and Spearman’s correlation coefficient were performed. Results: A statistically significant association of clinical stage with lytic changes, sequestration and inferior alveolar canal involvement was found. Also, a statistically significant correlation of clinical stage with CRIm index classification was obtained. Conclusions: The CRIm index tends to increase as the clinical stages of MRONJ advance, suggesting a correlation between the clinical stage of MRONJ and the CRIm index.

Museums are called to respond to contemporary challenges and contribute to the formation of more progressive societies. One of the major challenges of our time is climate change and museums could construct cocreated narratives around climate and implement targeted actions for the audiences through their sensorial and affective experiences. More specifically, Geology and Palaeontology museums are repositories of knowledge on geoheritage and geoconservation, recognized for their scientific, pedagogical, cultural and recreational values. The educational potential of geological and paleontological exhibits could be used in informal education activities regarding the climate emergency. Taking the above into consideration, this study focuses on both the creation and evaluation of an educational program for the Natural History Museum of Arsakeio Campus at Psychicko.

This study aimed to conduct a cross-cultural adaptation of the development of the cat-owner/dog-owner relationship scales. The method encompassed several stages: conceptual, item, semantic, operational, measurement, and functional equivalence. Processes included translations, synthesis of translations, back-translations, consensus on the English versions, external evaluation by the original authors, expert committee evaluation, and pre-tests. The study involved surveying 342 pet owners throughout Brazil using a 20-item questionnaire. Data analyses utilized confirmatory factor analysis, covariance-based modeling, and multigroup analysis. The techniques confirmed that the scale preserved its psychometric properties and showed no variance between dog and cat owners, indicating that the measured constructs are universal and unaffected by specific cultural nuances. Hence, the cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the scale facilitate applying and testing concepts and measures in diverse contexts, enriching our understanding of the dynamics between owners and their pets (dogs and cats) in different living situations. In addition, this research holds particular significance in Brazil, given the country’s vast cultural diversity.

This study investigates the diversity and evolution of research topics within the dental sciences from 1994 to 2023 using topic modeling and Shannon's entropy as a measure of research diversity. We analyzed a dataset of 412036 scientific articles across six dental disciplines: Orthodontics, Pros-thodontics, Periodontics, Implant Dentistry, Oral Surgery, and Restorative Dentistry. This research relies on BERTopic to identify distinct topics within each field. The study revealed significant shifts in research focus over time, with some disciplines exhibiting robust growth in article numbers such as Periodontics and Prosthodontics. The application of Shannon's entropy revealed an increasing diversification of research efforts in disciplines such as Restorative Dentistry, while others, like Prosthodontics, in spite of their size and their high number of research topics, maintain a more specialized research focus. Taken together, our findings describe the dynamic nature of dental re-search and highlight the balance shifts in research focus across several key areas of Dentistry.

Our work is regarding the analysis of land use changes, in the light of “saving soil” against the expansion due to unearned plus value of land: The loss of natural and agricultural surface in front of the expanding urban environment is a critical aspect of unsustainability of urban development, especially in the way it was carried out in the past decades. The measure of the physical transition of land use and characters from a more natural condition of land surface to a new artificial one, joint with a parallel analysis of the increase of land value due to such change is nowadays a major land-policy tool. The interplay of urban economics regulation with planning, reveals new key issues in urban governance and environmental preservation. In this paper it will be shown some experiment about the impact assessment of soil take, related with the seek of valorization of property inside the planning process. Our paper reports as well about the experimental activity carried out inside the MITO Lab of the Polytechnic of Bari, where reports about property values and environmental values have been produced, specially looking at the reality of the Apulia, a southern Italian Region, that is rich of farmlands and coastlines, often invaded by constructions with a severe loss of nature, landscape and ecosystems services.

This study harnesses the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) focusing on machine learning (ML) to improve decision-making in advanced engineering education. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled a swift transformation in higher education methodologies, particularly in the domain of course modality. This study aims to align institutional decisions with student and faculty preferences in the face of rapid changes in instructional approaches, particularly learning styles, theoretical, practical, and theoretical-practical, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To ascertain the preferences of students and instructors regarding class modalities across various courses, we utilized the Cognitive Process-Embedded Systems and E-learning conceptual framework. This framework effectively delineates the task execution process within the scope of technology-enhanced learning environments for both students and instructors. This study was conducted in seven Iranian universities and their STEM departments, examining their preferences for different learning styles. After analyzing the variables by different feature selection methods, we used three ML methods—decision trees (DT), support vector machines (SVM), and random forest (RF)—for comparative analysis. The results demonstrated the high performance of the RF model in predicting curriculum style preferences, making it a powerful decision-making tool in the evolving post-COVID educational landscape. This study not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ML in predicting educational preferences but also contributes to understanding the role of self-regulated learning in educational policy and decision-making in higher education.

Food production is a complex matter, affecting people’s lives, organizations’ profits, and the well-being of the whole planet and has multifaceted ethical considerations surrounding its production, distribution, and consumption. This paper addresses the pressing need to confront ethical challenges within the food system, encompassing issues such as environmental sustainability, food security, and individual food choices for better oral and systemic health of all individuals around the globe. From agricultural practices to global trade and food waste, ethical implications are addressed across various domains, highlighting the interconnectedness of ethical decision-making in the food industry. Central themes explored include the ethical dimensions of food production methods, the impact of global trade on food ethics, and the role of individuals in making ethically informed food choices. Additionally, the paper dives into the spiritual and physical significance of food, particularly through the lens of oral health as a gateway to holistic well-being. Recognizing the complexity of the food ecosystem, the paper calls for serious interventions in legislation and economics to promote ethical protocols and techniques for sustainability reasons. It emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in food safety management systems, regulatory frameworks, and quality standards. Moreover, the paper underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address ethical dilemmas and moral values inherent in the food industry and oral health policies, advocating for the adoption of the precautionary principle and ethical decision-making frameworks. The article aims to serve as a call to action for stakeholders across the food industry and the healthcare sector, to prioritize ethical practices, promote transparency, rearrange economic parameters and work towards a more sustainable and equitable food system for inner and outer oral and systemic health and human sustainability for all.

Wounds are an increasing global concern, mainly due to a sedentary lifestyle, frequently associated to the occidental way of life. The current prevalence of obesity in western societies, leading to an increase in type II diabetes, and an elderly population, are also a key factor associated to the problem of wounds healing. Therefore, it stands essential to find wound dressing systems allowing reestablishing the skin integrity in the shortest possible time and with the lowest cost, avoiding further damage and promoting patients´ well-being. Wounds can be classified into acute or chronic, depending essentially on the duration of the healing process, which is associated with. It depends on the extent and depth of wound, localization, level of infection and on the patient health status. For each kind of wound and respective healing stage there is a more suitable dressing. The aim of this review was to focus on the possible wound dressing management, aiming the more adequate healing approach for each kind of wound.

Reducing GHG emissions is a crucial challenge in urban areas, characterized by high energy consumption and reduced exposure to nature. In this context, the urban green system could play a pivotal role. In the literature, scholars analyzed both the ability of species-specific and layout-specific green infrastructures to increase carbon sequestration and the best location sites of new green infrastructures, to increase the provision of overall ecosystem services. There is a lack of studies helping green urban planners and designers choose where and which green infrastructure to implement, based on vegetation species-specific performance and local carbon emissions of city components. This paper uses tree inventory data from a medium-sized city in central Italy (Perugia) to develop a spatial analysis of the urban parks' performance in carbon sequestration. Then, the method evaluates the carbon emission of a public city building to generate a spatialized balance between buildings’ demand and trees’ supply, to support local decisions about the best locations for new green infrastructures and the choice between species. The paper contributes to GIS-based tools that vary the recommended location sites and species for new green infrastructures based on the demanded ecosystem service.

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant commonly used for depressive disorders and pre-scribed off-label for several neurological conditions like neuropathic pain, migraine and anxiety. Amitriptyline potentiates the monoaminergic transmission by blocking the reuptake of norepi-nephrine and serotonin. However, antidepressants also act on additional targets that contribute to either therapeutic or adverse effects and may suggest new indications for their repurposing. Furthermore, since depression is often a co-morbidity in patients with chronic conditions (i.e. cancer, neurodegenerative diseases) the use of antidepressants interfering with pathways in-volved in cell homeostasis may affect the progression and outcome of these pathologies. Here we investigate the effects of amitriptyline on proliferation and autophagy in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Dose and time-dependent upregulation of the autophagy markers LC3II and autophagy receptor p62, with accumulation of LAMP1 positive compartments, were observed in SH-SY5Y cells exposed to amitriptyline. Alteration of autophagy was accompanied by reduced cell viability and decreased clonogenic capacity, without a significant induction of apoptosis. Decrease viability and clonogenic activity were still observed in autophagy deficient Atg5 -/- MEF and following pre-treatment of SH-SY5Y culture with the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine suggesting that the amitriptyline’s effects on cell proliferation were not caused by the modulation of autophagy. Our findings demonstrate that amitriptyline acts on pathways that are crucial for cell and tissue homeostasis and pose the basis for further studies on the potential application of these effects and the consequences during long-term antidepressant treatment.

KLFs seem to associate with congenital heart disease-linked syndromes, malformations because of autosomal diseases, mutations that relate to protein instability, and/or loss functions such as atheroprotective activities. Ischemic damage also relates to KLF dysregulation because of differentiation of cardiac myofibroblasts or a modified fatty acid oxidation, related to the formation of a dilated cardiomyopathy; myocardial infarctions, left ventricular hypertrophy and diabetic cardiomyopathies. MicroRNA have been involved in certain regulatory loops of KLFs as they may function as critical modulators of vascular smooth muscle cells in atherosclerosis, in heart failure and as markers of endothelial damage in acute myocardial infarction.

The present study explored whether exposure to complex childhood trauma (CCT) is reflected in the resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) temporal alpha power of complex trauma-exposed adolescents, given the association of temporal alpha with fear circuitry (learning and conditioning) in a sample of 25 adolescents and similar controls, ages 12-17 years. Both trauma and psychopathology were screened or assessed, and resting-state EEG was recorded, following a preregistered protocol for data collection. Temporal alpha power, corresponding to T5 and T6 electrode location (10-20 international system), was extracted from resting-state EEG in both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. We found that in the eyes-open condition, right, but not left, temporal alpha was significantly higher in adolescents exposed to CCT, relative to healthy controls, suggesting that childhood trauma exposure may have a measurable impact on alpha oscillatory patterns, specifically in the right temporal region. Our study highlights the importance of considering neural markers, such as temporal alpha power, in understanding the long-term consequences of CCT exposure in developmental samples, with possible important clinical implications in guiding neuroregulation interventions.

Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is a co-inhibitory molecule expressed on the surface of various cell types, known for its suppressive effect on T cells through interaction with PD-1. Neutrophils also express PD-L1, and its expression is elevated in specific situations; however, the immunobiological role of PD-L1+ neutrophil has not been fully characterized. Here, we report that PD-L1-expressing neutrophils increased in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection are highly functional in bacterial elimination and supporting inflammatory resolution. The frequency of PD-L1+ neutrophils was dramatically increased in MRSA-infected mice, and this population exhibited enhanced activity in bacterial elimination compared to PD-L1- neutrophils. An administration of PD-L1 monoclonal antibody did not impair PD-L1+ neutrophil function suggesting that PD-L1 expression itself does not influence neutrophil activity. However, PD-1/PD-L1 blockade significantly delayed liver inflammation resolution in MRSA-infected mice, as indicated by increased plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) level and frequencies of inflammatory leukocytes in the liver implying that neutrophil PD-L1 suppresses the inflammatory response of these cells during the acute phase of MRSA infection. Our results reveal that elevated PD-L1 expression can be a marker for enhanced anti-bacterial function of neutrophils. Moreover, PD-L1+ neutrophils are an indispensable population attenuating inflammatory leukocyte activities assisting in a smooth transition into the resolution phase in MRSA infection.

Oral mucositis is most frequently a toxic effect of chemotherapeutic and/or radiotherapeutic treatment, resulting from complex multifaceted biological events involving DNA damage. The clinical manifestations have a negative impact on the life quality of cancer patients. Preventive measures and curative treatment of mucositis are still not well established. The glycine has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and cytoprotective actions, being a potential therapeutic in mucositis. The objective was to evaluate the effects of glycine on the expression of collagen and growth factors, platelet and epidermal in oral mucositis. The mucositis of which was induced by the protocol of Sonis. 40 hamsters were used, divided into two groups: Group I- control; Group II- supplemented with 5% intraperitoneal glycine, 2,0 mg/g diluted in hepes. Histopathological sections were used to perform the immune-histochemical method, the evaluation collagen expression and the growth factors: EGF and PDGF. It was observed that the group supplemented with glycine higher amounts of collagen expression and predominance type of collagen I. The glycine group presented lower immunoexpression of the growth factors, EGF and PDGF. The group supplemented with glycine showed a marked healing process of the oral mucosite, demonstrated by the predominance of collagen type I and reduction of growth factors, EGF and PDGF.

The Axillary Seabream Pagellus acarne is of economic importance for recreational and commercial fisheries in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, but a decline in total landings has been observed and raised some concern. Although biological information on the species has been provided for the Atlantic and Mediterranean, in the Portuguese continental slope data is restricted to the southern part of the country, which points to the relevance of the present work. A total of 520 individuals, between 7.8 cm and 39.9 cm TL, were monthly collected from September 2020 to August 2022 from commercial landings of fishing vessels operating off mainland Portugal, and used to study age and growth, the reproductive strategy and the annual sexual cycle. Age varied between 0 years (7.8 cm TL) and 15 years (34.2 cm TL) and the von Bertalanffy growth parameters were estimated from whole-otolith readings (L∞ = 35.2 cm, k = 0.133 yr–1 and t 0 = –2.78 yr). Pagellus acarne proved to be a protandric hermaphrodite species with males prevailing until 28.0 cm TL and females between 28.0 cm and 34.0 cm TL with a brief sex change phase. Females presented asynchronous oocyte development with a batch spawning pattern. The spawning season occurred from April to October with a spawning peak between June and August aas shown by histological analysis of the gonads and high levels of GSI during the period.

This study investigates stress perceptions, somatization, and coping strategies among 271 nursing and dentistry (n=126 and n=145, respectively), undergraduate and postgraduate students. For the study, an e-questionnaire was designed in a two-step process, uploaded in Google Forms and staying open for submissions during February 2024 in the School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. In our sample, predominantly female (68.60%), the majority were undergraduates (80.10%). Females reported higher stress somatization (M=10.22, SD=5.23) compared to males (M=7.94, SD=6.14), with a moderate effect size (Cohen’s d=0.412, p

Diarrhoea is a serious cause of mortality worldwide that can lead to dehydration, gut barrier function impairment, nutrient malabsorption, and alterations of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis). Current solutions for its management, such as oral rehydration salts (ORS), inhibitors of the gut motility, antibiotics, and living probiotics only partially counteract the mechanisms of the disease and do not provide a full coverage of the problem. Potential risks of the use of living probiotic strains, particularly in immunocompromised patients, can be eliminated with the use of tyndallized (heat-killed) postbiotic bacteria and yeast. ABB C22® is a postbiotic combination of three tyndallized yeasts, namely Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Kluyveromyces marxianus. To assess the action of the postbiotic combination on diarrhoea, immune and gut epithelial cell signaling assays, gut barrier formation assay and rotavirus gene expression assay were performed. ABB C22® showed a strong anti-inflammatory effect, an induction of the build-up of the gut epithelium, and a degree of protection against rotavirus infection. These experimental studies support the use of the postbiotic ABB C22® as a solution for the management of diarrhoea and gastrointestinal conditions, alone or in combination with existing but incomplete treatments.

Species distribution models (SDMs) are usually used to predict current species’ geographic distributions and to forecast the impact of climate change, with different aims, such as conservation, and biodiversity management. SDMs use has been increasing in the last decades, however, they are vulnerable to parametrization and data quality input. Thus, inappropriate input can lead to potential unreliability in results. In this context, the most used data and methodologies in SDM, and putative deviations from the consensual best practices, were identified, by analysing recent literature (2018 to 2022). Results show that the parameters presented more consistently are the chosen algorithm (MaxEnt was used in 98% of the studies), the accuracy measures, and the time windows. Many papers fail to specify other parameters, limiting the reproducibility of the studies. Some papers also fail to provide information about the target species: only a fraction of the species' range is considered, or no justification for including specific variables in the model is provided. These options can decrease reliability in predictions under future scenarios since data provided to the model is inaccurate from the start or there is insufficient information for outputs discussion.

The detection and recognition of tables in image-based documents is a challenging and essential task for automated data extraction and anal- ysis. This paper introduces a methodology that utilizes Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) to address this problem. By harnessing the ro- bust visual recognition abilities of CNNs, the proposed method effectively detects and extracts tables from image-based documents. Additionally, an Encoder-Dual Decoder (EDD) architecture is employed to extract the textual content from table cells, enabling the transformation of visual data into structured, machine-readable formats. This structured data is then further processed using a Vector Space Model (VSM)-based language modeling technique for query-based table retrieval. The methodology’s accuracy is assessed by analyzing the spatial relationships between the extracted cells and comparing them against a pre-defined table structure. The results provide an evidence to the effectiveness of the proposed ap- proach, with an impressive 85% accuracy rate and a corresponding error rate of 15%. This accurate extraction and recognition of tables from image-based documents can significantly enhance applications in data analysis, information retrieval, and knowledge extraction.

Continuous technological progress places significant demands on the materials used in increasingly modern devices. An important parameter is often the long-term thermal resistance of the material. The use of heat-resistant polymer materials worked well in technologically advanced products. An economically justified direction in searching for new materials is the area of polymer nanocomposite materials. It is necessary to appropriately select both the polymer matrix and the nanofillers best able to demonstrate the synergistic effect. A promising area of exploration for such nanocomposites is the use of organosilicon polymers, which results from the unique properties of these polymers related to their structure. This review presents the results of the analysis of the most important literature reports regarding organosilicon polymer nanocomposites with increased thermal resistance. Particular attention was paid to modification methods of silicone nanocomposites focused on the increase of their thermal resistance related to the modification of siloxane molecular structure and by making nanocomposites using inorganic additives, carbon nanomaterials. Attention was also paid to such important issues as the influence of the dispersion of additives in the polymer matrix on the thermal resistance of silicone nanocomposites and the possibility of modifying the polymer matrix and permanently introducing nanofillers thanks to the presence of various reactive groups. The thermal stability mechanism of these nanocomposites was also analysed.

Monitoring of clients living with HIV encompasses a specific array of activities that routinely check on various aspects of ART following its initiation depending on the availability of resources in that particular state, among other factors as per guidelines from the World Health Organisation. This is a significant practice as it promotes positive health outcomes for patients and efficient utilisation of ART regimens to reduce resistance to the medication – hence it is a measure to guard avoidable costs. It also forms a basis on which decisions are made from. It can be done clinically by assessing for signs e.g., skin rash and symptoms e.g., nausea and vomiting, checking vital organ function and measuring weights across all populations, or can be also be done by assessing specimens for their respective viral loads, white blood cell count, pregnancy status or other infections such as hepatitis B. There have not been any special indications required for one to be eligible for monitoring during ART in developing countries; all qualify for routine monitoring even though some may be more frequent than others in cases of comorbidities such as renal failure where medications can be attributed to exacerbating the condition.

Dairy farming dates to the early Neolithic era in Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Over time, the industry has evolved from small ranches and farmhouses milk processing units to large, intensive dairy farms and big, high-tech processing units. Despite the industry’s contribution to the economy and food production, multiple studies have tainted cattle farming as a main contributor to climate change. This study explores literature in dairy farming and sustainable development goals (SDGs) to identify current scholarly developments since the formulation and adoption of SDGs in 2015 and themes for future research. This paper argues that dairy animals are not the source of sustainability shortfalls as depicted by multiple scholarly articles, but human processes associated with dairy farming. Data was analyzed using R package, Excel, NVIVO, and VoS Viewer. A review of literature shows that dairy farming and its contribution to sustainability has gained more intensive scientific interest since 2015. Moreover, livestock management, feed production and management, stakeholder’s management, logistics and supply chain management, and waste management are the sources of environmental adversities associated with dairy farming. Notably, these are human processes developed from commercialization of dairy farming and involve multiple stakeholders across the supply chain. While solutions are embedded within these processes, innovation emerges as a key driver of sustainability and source of opportunities to strengthen sustainability in dairy farming sector and achieve the sustainable development goals.

This paper explores the application of machine learning in financial time series analysis, focusing on predicting trends in financial enterprise stocks and economic data. It begins by distinguishing stocks from stocks and elucidates risk management strategies in the stock market. Traditional statistical methods such as ARIMA and exponential smoothing are discussed in terms of their advantages and limitations in economic forecasting. Subsequently, the effectiveness of machine learning techniques, particularly LSTM and CNN-BiLSTM hybrid models, in financial market prediction is detailed, highlighting their capability to capture nonlinear patterns in dynamic markets. The study demonstrates the advancements in predictive accuracy and robustness achieved by deep learning methods through empirical analysis and model validation. The findings contribute significantly to academic discourse and offer practical insights for investors, financial analysts, and policymakers navigating market volatility and optimizing investment strategies. Finally, the paper outlines prospects for machine learning in financial forecasting, laying a theoretical foundation and methodological framework for achieving more precise and reliable economic predictions.

With the advent of Web 3.0, the swift advancement of technology confronts an imminent threat from quantum computing. Security protocols safeguarding the integrity of Web 2.0 and Web 3.0 are growing more susceptible to both quantum attacks and sophisticated classical threats. The article introduces our novel long-distance free-space quantum secure direct communication (LF QSDC) as a method to safeguard against security breaches in both quantum and classical contexts. Differing from techniques like quantum key distribution (QKD), LF QSDC surpasses constraints by facilitating encrypted data transmission sans key exchanges, thus diminishing the inherent weaknesses of key-based systems. The distinctiveness of this attribute, coupled with its quantum mechanics base, protects against quantum computer assaults and advanced non-quantum dangers, harmonizing seamlessly with the untrustworthy tenets of the Web 3.0 age. The focus of our study is the technical design and incorporation of LF QSDC into web 3.0 network infrastructures, highlighting its efficacy for extended-range communication. LF QSDC is based on the memory DL04 protocol and enhanced with our novel Quantum-Aware Low-Density Parity Check (LDPC), Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking (PAT) technologies, and Atmospheric Quantum Correction Algorithm (AQCA). Utilizing this method not only bolsters the security of worldwide Web 3.0 networks but also guarantees their endurance in a time when quantum and sophisticated classical threats exist simultaneously. Consequently, LF QSDC stands out as a robust security solution, well-suited for Web 3.0 systems amidst the constantly evolving digital environment.