Verminosis causes great damage to the producer, with reduced milk production and decreased development of young animals. The use of bioproducts are an alternative to control worms. This study evaluated the effects of oral administration of one commercial formulations, based on the fungus Duddingtonia flagrans (Bioverm®) and experimental formulations D. flagrans associated with Pochonia chlamydosporia, on the control of worms in naturally infected cattle on February pasture to October 2021. Eighteen Holstein x Zebu cattle were divided into groups of six animals (group 1 Bioverm®, group 2 Association and control), separated into paddocks naturally infected with helminth larvae (L3). The parasite load was by means of fecal samples and pasture collection to determine L3 infestation. The study demonstrated low recovery of L3 in the pasture due to low rainfall during the experiment. The EPG was lower in groups 1 and 2 compared to the control in April, May and July, while in March the values were lower only in treatment 1 compared to the control. Individual or combined administration of fungal products reduced the presence of eggs and larvae in pastures at certain months of the year, indicating their effectiveness in the strategic control of gastrointestinal parasites in cattle.

Ensuring precise electric locomotive stopping is pivotal for achieving intelligent and unmanned auxiliary transportation systems. Currently, human drivers' expertise plays a central role in the stopping process, posing challenges for automation and cargo location accuracy, particularly in coal mining. This paper focuses on achieving accurate electric locomotive stopping under diverse conditions by utilizing permanent magnet synchronous motor-driven locomotives. This technique introduces a novel stopping control method that combines a fuzzy Proportional-Integral-Derivative (F-PID) controller and a vector control model for permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM). After this, we design the F-PID using the PMSM technique based on the new fuzzy rules for each sub-system. In the end, extensive simulations and real-world experiments are conducted on an electric locomotive stopping test bed, which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control method. From the simulation results, it confirming that the ability to achieve precise stopping under various working conditions.

The efficient preparation of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) rings, as a macromolecular construction approach with topological features, has aroused much interest due to their numerous applications in biotechnology and DNA nanotechnology. However, an extra splint is essential for enzymatic circularization, and by-products of multimers are usually present at high concentrations. Here, we proposed a simple and robust strategy of using permuted precursor (linear ssDNA) for circularization by forming an intramolecular dynamic nick using a part of the linear ssDNA substrate itself as the template. After the simulation of the secondary structure for desired circular ssDNA, the linear ssDNA substrate is designed to have its ends on the duplex part (≥5 bp). By using this permuted substrate with 5'-phosphate, the splint-free circularization is simply carried out by T4 DNA ligase. Very interestingly, formation of only several base pairs (2–4) flanking the nick is enough for ligation, although they form only instantaneously under ligation conditions. More significantly, the 5 bp intramolecular duplex part commonly exists in genomes or functional DNA, demonstrating the high generality of our approach. Our findings are helpful for understanding the mechanism of enzymatic DNA ligation from the viewpoint of substrate binding.

Conductive hydrogels combine the properties of both hydrogels and electrical conductivity, making them soft, flexible, and biocompatible. These properties enable them to conform to irregular surfaces, stretch and bend without losing their electrical conductivity, and interface with biological systems. Conductive hydrogels can be utilized as conductive traces, electrodes, or as a matrix for flexible electronics. Exciting applications in sensors, tissue engineering and human-machine interaction have been demonstrated worldwide. This review comprehensively covers the progress in this field, focusing on several main aspects: functional materials, performance improvement strategies, and wearable applications in human-related areas. Furthermore, the major approaches and challenges for improving their mechanical properties, conductivity, and long-term stability are systematically summarized.

Objectives: Describe the epidemiology of burns in the pediatric population. Analyze and compare the results obtained from the treatment of burn wounds by using the bio-preserved human epidermis allograft (BHEA) and other types of dressings and determine the need for further need of a skin graft. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study of pediatric population with burn injuries was conducted, grouped into categories based on their age group, and the mechanisms of injury into 6 categories: scald, flame, contact, electrical, chemical and friction. Describing the extension and depth of the burn injury. The results of treatment of two groups; the patients who used (BHEA) and the group with “other dressings” were analyzed by inferential statistics to establish the relationship between the use of BHEA and the need for skin grafts compared to the other group. Results: A total of 65 patients were obtained. The average age was 4.5 years (±3.8). Preschoolers (1-5 years old) were the most frequent age group 64% (n=42). Male patients represented 61% (n=40) of cases. Scald was the most reported mechanism 64% (n=42). The average total body surface area burned (TBSAB) was 10.8% (± 9.2). Mixed partial thickness burn (superficial and deep) was the most common with a 55%. The head was the most affected anatomical site; 30%. The face was the most reported “special anatomical site” with a 40% (n=30). 32.2 % of the population (n=21) was treated with BHEA. The average time of epithelialization of the BHEA group was 8 days (±7.2), and their average hospital stay time was 7 days (±5.7). In the “other dressing” group, the average epithelialization time was 18 days (±13.6), and the average hospital stay time was 11 days (±12.6). Fifty percent (n=22) of the “other dressing” group required skin grafts. In the BHEA group only 19% (n=4) required skin grafts. An OR of 0.23 and CI of 95% (0.06 – 0.81) with a p value of (0.017) for the need of skin grafts after de use of BHEA was obtained. Conclusion: The epidemiological results reported are similar to those described in the literature. The use of (BHEA) proved to be a good option for the management of partial thickness burns and burns in transition, promoting timely epithelilization and avoiding deepening of the burns while reducing morbidity, hospital stay and care costs.

Intelligent fault diagnosis techniques have replaced the time-consuming and unreliable human analysis, increasing the efficiency of fault diagnosis. Deep learning model can improve the accuracy of intelligent fault diagnosis with the help of its multilayer nonlinear mapping ability. This paper has proposed a novel method named Deep Convolutional Neural Networks with Wide First-layer Kernels (WDCNN). The proposed method uses raw vibration signals as input (data augmentation is used to generate more inputs), and uses the wide kernels in first convolutional layer for extracting feature and suppressing high frequency noise. Small convolutional kernels in the preceding layers are used for multilayer nonlinear mapping. AdaBN is implemented to improve the domain adaptation ability of the model. The proposed model addresses the problem that currently, the accuracy of CNN applied to fault diagnosis is not very high. WDCNN can not only achieve 100% classification accuracy on normal signals, but also outperform state of the art DNN model which is based on frequency features under different working load and noisy environment.

A thorough analysis and comparison of the fatty acid profiles of stipe and blade from Laminaria hyperborea, a kelp species found in the northern Atlantic, is presented. Lipids were extracted and fractionated into neutral lipids, free fatty acids and polar lipids, then derivatized to fatty acid methyl esters prior to GC-MS analysis. A total of 42 fatty acids were identified and quantified, including the n-3 fatty acids α-linolenic acid, stearidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid. An n-6/n-3 ratio of 0.8:1 was found in blade and 3.5:1 in stipe, respectively. The ratios vary between the lipid fractions within stipe and blade, with the lowest ratio in the polar lipid fraction of blade. The fatty acid amounts are higher in blade than in stipe, and the highest amounts of n-3 fatty acids are found within the neutral lipid fractions. The amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids are 3.4 times higher in blade than stipe. This study highlights the compositional differences between the lipid fractions of stipe and blade from L. hyperborea. The amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, compared to saturated- and monounsaturated fatty acids, as well as the n-6/n-3-ratio, is known to influence human health. In the pharmaceutical, food, and feed industries this can be of importance for production and sale of different health products. Additionally, lipids are today among the unused by products of alginate production, exploiting this material for commercial interest should give both economical and environmental benefits.

Image stitching is a crucial aspect of image processing. However, factors like perspective and environment often lead to irregular shapes in stitched images. Cropping or completion methods typically result in substantial loss of information. This paper proposes a method for rectifying irregularly images into rectangles using deformable meshes and residual networks. The method utilizes a convolutional neural network to quantify rigid structures of images. Choosing the most suitable mesh structure based on the extraction results, offering options such as triangular, rectangular, and hexagonal. Subsequently, the irregularly image, predefined mesh structure, and predicted mesh structure are input into a wide residual neural network for regression. The loss function comprises local and global, aimed at minimizing the loss of image information within the mesh and global target. This method not only significantly reduces information loss during rectification but also adapting to different images with various rigid structures. Validation on the DIR-D dataset shows this method outperforms state-of-the-art methods in image rectification.

The present study aimed to determine the genetic diversity of isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) from presumed drug resistant tuberculosis patients from several states of Brazil. The isolates had been submitted to conventional drug susceptibility testing for first- and second-line drugs. Multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) (54.8%) was the most frequent phenotypic resistance profile, in addition to an important high frequency of pre-extensively resistant (p-XDR-TB) (9.2%). Using whole-genome sequencing (WGS), we characterized 298 Mtb isolates from Brazil. Besides analysis of genotype distribution and possible correlations between molecular and clinical data, we determined the performance of an in-house WGS pipeline with other online pipelines for Mtb lineages and drug resistance profile definition. Sub-lineage 4.3 (52%) was the most frequent genotype and the genomic approach revealed a p-XDR-TB level of 22.5%. We detected 20 novel mutations in three resistance genes, and six of these were observed in eight phenotypically resistant isolates. Cluster analysis of 170 isolates showed that 43.5% of the TB patients belonged to 24 genomic clusters, suggesting considerable ongoing transmission of DR-TB, including two interstate transmissions. The in-house WGS pipeline showed the best overall performance in drug-resistance prediction, presenting the best accuracy values to five of nine drugs tested. Significant associations were observed between suffering from fatal disease and genotypic p-XDR-TB (p = 0.03) and either phenotypic (p = 0.006) and genotypic (p = 0.0007) ethambutol resistance. The use of WGS analysis improved our understanding of the population structure of MTBC in Brazil, genetic and clinical data correlations and demonstrating its utility for surveillance efforts for spread of DR-TB, hopefully helping to avoid the emergence of even more resistant strains and to reduce TB incidence and mortality rates.

The activated carbons (ACs) derived from okara powder waste with high surface areas were modified with ammonia aqueous solution impregnation in an autoclave to enhance their CO2 adsorption properties toward CO2. The impregnated ACs were characterized in which surface chemical composition and properties of the ACs were analyzed by SEM-EDS, FTIR. Activated carbons were functionalized with ammonia aqueous solution (25%) through a hydrothermal process within 24; 48, and 72 hours. The adsorption performance of CO2 onto carbon samples was experimentally evaluated through a breakthrough adsorption experimental setup at room temperature. FTIR spectra confirm the N-containing in N-modified activated carbons and the presence of the –C = O stretch and N-H groups. CO2 uptakes of N-modified activated carbons are 0.24; 1.47; and 1.20 mmol/g, which are relatively comparable with those of activated carbons studied in in the literature.

K-band radar waves have high penetration and low attenuation coefficients. However, the wavelength of this radar wave is relatively short; thus, designing and preparing both broadband and wide-angle radar wave absorbers in this band presents considerable challenges. In this study, a resin-based K-band radar wave absorber with a biomimetic lotus leaf structure was designed and formed by UV curing. Here, microscale lotus leaf papillae and antireflection structures were prepared using a DLP 3D printer, and the contact angle between the material and water droplets was increased from 56° to 130°. In addition, the influence of the geometric parameters of the lotus leaf antireflection structure on the electromagnetic absorption performance and mechanical strength was investigated. After simulation optimization, the maximum electromagnetic loss of the lotus leaf structure 3D printed sample was −32.3 dB, and the electromagnetic loss was below −10 dB in the 20.8–26.5 GHz frequency range. When the radar incidence angle was 60°, the maximum electromagnetic loss was still less than −10 dB. The designed lotus leaf structure has a higher mechanical energy absorption per unit volume (337.22 KJ/m3) and per unit mass (0.55 KJ/Kg) than commonly used honeycomb lightweight structures during the elastic deformation stage, and we expect that the designed structure can be used as an effective lightweight material for K-band radar stealth.

Here we will explain the correlation between the Kerr-Newman diagram and the theory: RLC electrical modelling of a black hole and the early universe. We will develop a black hole model that describes and explains both theories. In the development of our analysis, we will emphasize the following conditions: M² > Q² + a², M² = Q² + a² and M² < Q² + a² and we will also analyse the condition in which the mass of a black hole reaches its critical mass M = Mc. We will demonstrate that the interpretation of the Kerr-Newman diagram is equivalent to the interpretation of the theory: RLC electrical modelling of a black hole and the early universe. Finally, we will generalize the proposed model for a black hole and propose a black hole model formed by negative particles, neutroniumd, which after reaching critical conditions of mass, pressure, volume, temperature, density, etc.; decays into a positively charged black hole, protoniu. Let us remember that both models are formed by charged particles of matter (they do not contain antimatter), but their vector configuration means that the net charges of both proposed black holes are zero.

It was aimed evaluate the nutritive value of three foods (Cecropia sp., Pterodon sp., and Inga sp.), for sloths (Bradypus variegatus), based on in vitro gas production. After a 14-day adaptation period to these foods, approximately 500g of gastric contents were collected from three female sloths, processed, and incubated with food samples to evaluate digestibility and in vitro degradation kinetics. The neutral detergent fiber (NDFcp) was greater (P&lt;0,05) in the leaves of Cecropia sp. The non-fibrous carbohydrate contents were greater in Pterodon sp. The greatest cellulose content was found in the leaves of C. pachystachya, as well as lowest value for hemicellulose. There were differences in the in vitro digestibility of crude protein (P&lt;0.05), higher for Inga sp. In terms of kinetic parameters, Pterodon sp. demonstrated higher production of total gases (Vt) and digestion rates of fibrous carbohydrates (kdNFC) (P&lt;0.05), possibly related to the lower NDF content and higher values of soluble carbohydrates, which favored fermentative processes. The leaves of Pterodon sp. and Inga sp. demonstrated potential for feeding B. variegatus. Feeding B. variegatus with Cecropia sp., due to the NDF content, can cause negative effects on dry matter consumption.

Observe the synergistic effect and dose-effect relationship of Trimethoprim (TMP) on bactericidal activity with Flos Lonicerae in vitro. Microamount chessboard dilution method was conducted to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Trimethoprim, Flos Lonicerae, as well as the combination of Trimethoprim and Flos Lonicerae separately against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli in vitro and Salmonella. The pour plate count method was used to determine the combined bactericidal activity of Flos Lonicerae combined with Different concentrations TMP. The results showed that the MIC values of the combination of Flos Lonicerae with TMP was much less than the MIC values of the independent use of Flos Lonicerae or TMP, The FIC values of the combination of Flos Lonicerae with TMP were between 0.5 and 1, there was additive effect between them. The bactericidal rates were fitted with least square method, the 95% confidence intervals of the optimal blending quantity about the combination of Flos Lonicerae with TMP on the test organisms were 231μg·mL^-1-249μg·mL^-1, 237μg·mL^-1-259μg·mL^-1, and 235 -259μg·mL^-1

This study evaluated the epidemiological and genetic susceptibility profile caused by coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in children ≤3 years of age with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) or acute respiratory infection (ARI), living in the northwestern region of the Amazon (NWAR). Fecal and saliva sam-ples collected from 202 children (n=404) were subjected to detection of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR. Polymorphisms in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE rs4646994) and ACE2 G8780A; rs2285666) genes were detected by SYBR GREEN real-time PCR and PCR/Alul digestion, respec-tively. Secretory and Lewis status of histo-blood group antigen (HBGA) was performed using phenotyping/ELISA. Frequencies for the AGE group: SARS-CoV-2; 8.9%; ARI group: SARS-CoV-2; 2.9%. The ACE I/I homozygous polymorphism gene was majority. Males with the ACE2 G8780A SNP were more susceptible to ARI symptoms than AGE (OR = 3.85; 95% CI-1.42-10.38; P 0.007). Most children were secretory FUT2 phenotype (92.6%). Surveillance of diarrhea and respiratory infections in children, along with understanding their causes, are crucial for identifying preven-tion and control strategies and for prioritizing and developing new vaccines. Clinical manifesta-tions of COVID-19 in children ≤3 years of age include AGE.

To better understand farmers’ refusal and corresponding negative emotions to pay agricultural water fee under current policy in rural China, this paper applies mental accounting, a behavioral economics framework, to explore how the governmental policies of reform of rural taxes and fees, direct agricultural subsidy programs and agricultural water fee individually influence farmers’ decisions in paying agricultural water fee. Using fieldwork data from 577 farmers and 20 water managers in Sichuan, we explore farmers’ information processing regarding paying agricultural water fee via three sequential mental accounting processes, with the associated underlying principles and measures behind each process. We find that the information processing in three mental accounting scenarios related to the agricultural water fee elucidates farmers’ observed behaviors in rural China. Generally, in the three mental accounting scenarios, two conditional intuitive expectations and nine conditional intuitive preferences are formed, however, the conditions of those expectations or preferences cannot be matched with the facts due to the reform of rural taxes and fees, the direct agricultural subsidy programs and the internal attributes of agricultural water fee, which interpret those negative behaviors in rural China. Additionally, this paper offers a view into how previous policies create negative psychological externalities (such as farmers’ psychological dependence on the government) through mental accounting to negatively influence agents’ subsequent decision making; it highlights the significance of underlying mental factors and information processing of negative behaviors in policymaking for managing or conserving common pool resources.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of Clostridium perfringens in stool samples and swabs collected from wild mammals in the Amazon biome. Sixty-five faecal and swab samples were collected in situ and ex situ from 16 species and three genera of wild mammals, some of which were in good health and some of which had diarrhoea. After pre-enrichment, the samples were plated on selective agar for C. perfringens. Characteristic colonies were subjected to multiplex PCR for the detection of genes encoding the main C. perfringens toxins (alpha, beta, epsilon, and iota toxin and enterotoxin). Among the 65 samples, 40 (61.5%) were positive for the gene encoding the alpha toxin and were classified as type A. Faecal samples were more than four times more likely to be positive for C. perfringens than were swab samples. No other toxinotypes were found. The findings of this study suggest that C. perfringens type A is commonly found as a commensal in mammal species of the Amazon biome. This seems to be the first study to identify C. perfringens type A in species such as B. variegatus (common ground sloth), C. didactylus (two-toed sloth), P. flavus (Jupará), T. tetradactyla (anteater), S. collinsi (squirrel monkey), S. niger (black marmoset), and S. apella (Guyana capuchin) and in the genus Didelphis sp. (opossum).

In the sphere of urban renewal in historic districts, preserving and innovatively reinterpreting traditional architectural styles remains a primary research focus. However, the modernization and adaptive reuse of traditional buildings often necessitate changes in their functionality. To cater to the demands of tourism in historic districts, many traditional residential buildings require conversion to commercial use, resulting in a mismatch between their external form and internal function. This study explores an automated approach to transform traditional residences into commercially viable designs, offering an efficient and scalable solution for the modernization of historic architecture. We developed a methodology based on diffusion models, focusing on a dataset of nighttime shopfront facades. By training a Low-Rank adaptation (LoRA) model and integrating the ControlNet model, we enhanced the accuracy and stability of generated images. The methodology’s performance was validated through qualitative and quantitative assessments, optimizing batch size, repetition, and learning rate configurations. These evaluations confirmed the method’s effectiveness. Our findings significantly advance the modern commercial style transformation of historical architectural facades, providing a novel solution that maintains aesthetic and functional integrity, thereby fostering breakthroughs in traditional de-sign thinking and exploring new possibilities for the preservation and commercial adaptation of historical buildings.

Here we will electrically-quantum model the neutron and proton as a three-phase alternating current electric generator, for this, we will use the theory of three-phase electric generators and vector or phasor diagrams. We will use this model to hypothesize how the quarks that form neutrons and protons with a combined mass of 10 MeV/c², can generate, through quarks-antiquarks-gluon interactions, a mass of 939.56 MeV/c² for the neutron and a mass of 938.27 MeV/c² for the proton. Using quantum mechanics and the theory of the generalization of the Boltzmann constant in curved space-time we will calculate the number of quarks-antiquarks-gluons and gravitons inside a neutron. We will also analyse βˉ decay using vector diagrams, we will calculate the tension of the string T₀ and the length of the string ℓs between quarks-antiquark and finally, we will model a black hole using a neutron equivalent model. In version 2 of this article, we will update the vector diagrams of the βˉ decay and theoretically calculate the energy of the W⁻ boson, the Z⁰ boson, and the Θ angle, Θ = arc cos (W⁻/Z⁰). We will demonstrate, through vector diagrams, that quarks-antiquarks-gluon interactions are the cause of the origin of the W⁻ boson and the Z⁰ boson. We will also demonstrate how the fine structure constant α originates. It is important to make clear, in future updates, we will describe the relationship that exists between the theory described in this paper and the Isospin theory, flavour and colour theory

The state of Oaxaca, Mexico obtained the “Pluma” designation of origin in 2022 and has stood out for the production of specialty coffee. Within its process, roasting is one of the stages that contributes to the physical, chemical and sensory quality of the coffee bean. Therefore, the microstructure and elemental chemical composition of special medium-roasted Coffea arabica L beans from six locations with this denomination were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The average values of roughness Rz (25.93±2.69-34.18±1.15 and 13.85±1.66-21.85±6.63) and Ra (5.20±0.47- 8.27±0.82 and 6.55±0.94-11.53±1.65) were obtained at 400 and 2000x, respectively. The roasted Coffea arabica L. beans from MAP and HUA are the ones with the greatest roughness and both are located at a lower altitude compared to the rest. PLU and PTO roasted beans showed the highest physical and structural integrity. In all grains, 6C (66.48-81.14%), 8O (18.86-28.69%) and only 20Ca (4.5%) were found on the outside. This research constitutes a standard of authenticity and microstructural and elemental quality of Coffea arabica L. beans with designation of origin "Pluma".

This study explored the correlation between concentrations of phenolic compounds (phenols, tannins, and flavonoids) and the versatility of woody medicinal plants in the Caatinga, a seasonally dry forest region in Brazil. We examined whether these compounds influence the versatility of plants used by populations, given their known therapeutic properties. Plants were categorized as high or low versatility based on their relative importance (RI) values ​​at the regional level. Samples collected in Catimbau National Park, Pernambuco, were analyzed using colorimetric methods: Folin-Ciocalteu reagent for total phenols, casein precipitation for tannins, and aluminum chloride complexation for flavonoids. Contrary to expectations, no significant differences in phenolic compound concentrations were found between the high and low versatility groups. Higher levels of total phenols and tannins were observed in Myracrodruon urundeuva and Anadenanthera colubrina, both highly versatile species. However, less versatile species, such as Mimosa tenuiflora and Schinopsis brasiliensis, also showed high levels. Flavonoid content, notably lower than phenols and tannins, did not show significant variation between groups. Although phenolic compounds contribute to the therapeutic properties of medicinal plants, their concentration alone does not determine the versatility of plants in the Caatinga. Versatility is more likely influenced by ecological conditions, cultural practices, and species availability. This study highlights the need to integrate multiple perspectives in ethnopharmacological research.

Grape pomace is a winery byproduct rich in polyphenols with antioxidant capacity, which makes it an attractive product for use in pig diets. The study aimed to investigate the effect of 0, 5, and 10% inclusion of dehydrated grape pomace (DGP) in finishing pig diets. Including 10% of DGP in the diets increased (P&lt;0.05) daily feed intake, backfat thickness at the first rib, P2 backfat thickness, fat area, and fat to meat ratio and decreased (P&lt;0.05) the percentage of lean meat. Grape pomace did not affect TBARS and fresh meat quality characteristics, except for intramuscular fat. When 10% DGP was included in the diet, intramuscular fat, ΣSFA, ΣMUFA, and Σω-3 increased and ω-6:ω-3 ratio was reduced. In conclusion including up to 10% of DGP in the diet of finishing pigs did not affect growth performance, and the oxidative stability of processed meat, but increased the adiposity of the carcasses. Meat quality was improved through an increase in intramuscular fat and ω-3 fatty acids at 10% inclusion. It is feasible to include DGP in pig diets at a level of at least 10%, which would contribute to the rational use and reduction of environmental liability of by-products from the winery industry.

The incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to rise worldwide and one of the most serious microvascular complications is diabetic kidney disease (DKD), which is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Current bi-omarkers such as urinary albumin excretion rate have limitation for early detection of DKD. In our study we used ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-ESI+-MS) techniques to quantify previously analyzed metabolites, such as tryptophan, kynurenic acid, taurine, l-acetylcarnitine, glycine, and tiglylglycine. We performed the targeted analy-sis of metabolites from urine and serum samples, collected from 110 subjects. Of these, 90 patients with type 2 DM (T2DM) were divided according to the urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) into normoalbuminuria 300 mg/g groups, respectively, while 20 subjects were rep-resented by healthy controls. Through various validation methods, we identified several metabolites as potential biomarkers, such as kynurenic acid, glycine, and l-tryptophan in serum and l-acetylcarnitine, tiglylglycine, and tau-rine in urine.

Studies on animal virome have mainly concentrated on chordates and medically significant invertebrates, often overlooking sylvatic mosquitoes, constituting the major part of mosquito species diversity. Despite their potential role in arbovirus transmission, the viromes of sylvatic mosquitoes remain largely unexplored. These mosquitoes may also harbor insect-specific viruses (ISVs), affecting arboviral transmission dynamics. The Cerrado biome, known for rapid deforestation and its status as a biodiversity hotspot, offers an ideal setting for investigating mosquito viromes due to potential zoonotic spillover risks from land use changes. This study aimed to characterize the viromes of sylvatic mosquitoes collected from various locations within Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Total RNA was extracted from mosquito pools of Psorophora albipes, Sabethes albiprivus, Sa. chloropterus, Psorophora ferox, and Coquillettidia venezuelensis species, followed by high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Bioinformatic analysis included quality control, contig assembly, and viral detection. Sequencing data analysis revealed 11 near-complete viral genomes (new viruses are indicated with asterisks) across seven viral families and one unassigned genus. These included: Xinmoviridae (Ferox mosquito mononega-like virus* and Albipes mosquito Gordis-like virus*), Phasmaviridae (Sabethes albiprivus phasmavirus*), Lispiviridae (Pedras lispivirus isolate MG), Iflaviridae (Sabethes albiprivus iflavivirus*), Virgaviridae (Buriti virga-like virus isolate MG and Sabethes albiprivus virgavirus 1*), Flaviviridae (Psorophora ferox flavivirus*), Mesoniviridae (Alphamesonivirus cavallyense isolate MG), and the genus Negevirus (Biggie virus isolate MG virus and Coquillettidia venezuelensis negevirus*). Phylogenetic analyses revealed evolutionary relationships with varying degrees of similarity to known sequences in distinct host species. In some cases, new viruses and potential new genera were discovered, emphasizing the importance of studying sylvatic mosquito virome to understand viral diversity and evolution in ecologically sensitive regions. Moreover, the presence of ISVs and potential novel arboviruses underscores the need for ongoing surveillance and control strategies to mitigate the risk of emerging infectious diseases.

Thorough and precise gene structure annotations are essential for maximizing the benefits of genomic data and unveiling valuable genetic insights. The cucumber genome was first released in 2009 and updated in 2019. To increase the accuracy of predicted gene models, 64 published RNA-seq data and 9 new strand-specific RNA-seq data from multiple tissues were used for manual comparison with the gene models. The updated annotation file (version 2.0) contains increased 24,145 predicted genes from previous version (24317 genes) with a higher BUSCO value of 96.9%. 6231 and 1490 transcripts were adjusted and newly added, respectively, accounting for 31.99% of the overall gene tally. These newly added and adjust genes were renamed (CsaV3.1_XGXXXXX), while genes remaining unaltered preserve their original des ignations. A random selection of 21 modified/added genes were validated using RT-PCR analyses. Additionally, tissue-specific patterns of gene expression were examined using newly obtained transcriptome data with the revised gene prediction model. This improved annotation of cucumber genome will provide essential and accurate resources for studies in cucumber.

This work refers to sustainability (SDG - Sustainable Development Goals) highlighting the idea of ​​harmony of life along the lines of the biological model at various levels and of nature alike, thus defining the concept of bioharmonism. The purpose of this paradigm is to find a way of transition in the contemporary societal change, connecting the natural sciences, more precisely the life sciences, with the social sciences, more concretely along the lines of holistic approaches to the evolution of human society. The objective of this point of view is related to sustainability, resilience and planetary health, which indicates the need to analyse planetary bioharmony and transpose the model to the structure and functionality of human society through the complex, unitary and coherent approach of the bioharmonization process. The study analyses the issue, through: the definition and role of societal bioharmonism, then the argument related to the transition to another world using the proposed path, based on specific notions, principles and laws, and finally, the description of some lines of application of the pillars of bioharmonism. A series of solutions are highlighted that can contribute conceptually to the evolution of contemporary society, to the convergence of anthroposystems with ecosystems by interconnecting the aspects of the biological revolution with those specific to the information age. The solutions aim at societal bioharmonization supported by its specific pillars, which through integration and emergence lead to a dynamic balance. The state of equilibrium, sustainability can be highlighted at a systemic level by the directions of action in which the bioharmonization complementarities that indicate the Environment and biodiversity in the economic equation, the Citizen in the social equation and Science in the political equation will be taken into account.

The concerning worldwide increase of obesity and chronic metabolic diseases such as T2D, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease motivates further investigations into preventive and alternative therapeutic approaches. Over the past decade, there is growing evidence that the formation and activation of thermogenic adipocytes (brown and beige) may serve as therapy to treat obesity and its associated diseases owing to its capacity to increase energy expenditure and to modulate circulating lipids and glucose levels. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanism of brown and beige adipocytes formation and activation will facilitate the development of strategies to combat metabolic disorders. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of pathways and players involved in the development of brown and beige fat as well as the role of thermogenic adipocytes in energy homeostasis and metabolism. Also, we discuss the alterations in brown and beige adipose tissue function during obesity and, explore the therapeutic potential of thermogenic activation to treat metabolic syndrome.

This paper focus on the modeling and time-domain analyzing method of piecewise-smooth fractional-order circuit systems. Firstly, an analytical framework is constructed based on a generalized piecewise-smooth two-port impedance network model, which takes the topological characteristics of Dickson type switched-capacitor converters (SCCs) as examples, and considers the fractional-order characteristics of class-2 X7R ceramic capacitors, which are widely used in SCCs. Secondly, the time-domain analyzing method for such a piecewise-smooth fractional-order circuit system is developed, numerical solutions are obtained, and the influence of the fractional-order capacitor on the power conversion efficiency of the system are revealed. Finally, in order to validate the analysis, both numerical simulation and experiments are provided in the work, the results of which confirm that, the proposed fractional-order analytical framework can capture the power loss mechanism of piecewise-smooth fractional-order circuit systems more effectively than the traditional integer-order based approach, thus benefiting the design of circuit systems.

A Partial discharge (PD) occurrence in high-voltage (HV) and medium-voltage (MV) power assets is a warning sign of insulation system degradation or defective manufacturing/assembly, that may cause catastrophic damage and eventually lead to the breakdown of the power equipment. Ultra-high frequency (UHF) PD measurement technology has extensively been used to monitor the insulation health of the HV or MV equipment due to its high immunity against ambient noise and conducted disturbances. This paper presents experimental validation of a new design of a UHF planar rectangular microstrip antenna that can be used for PD monitoring of HV and/or MV power equipment, such as power transformers. The designed planar rectangular microstrip antenna has a compact size of 80mmx70mmx1.6mm. Laboratory experiments were performed to validate the antenna sensitivity to PD activity caused by insulation defects created inside an oil-filled transformer tank model. PD measurement results confirm that the proposed rectangular microstrip antenna has high sensitivity and high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), thanks to its capability to suppress external noise disturbances, especially during online PD monitoring. Thus, the proposed UHF antenna seems to be a promising and alternative PD sensor that can be employed in UHF PD monitoring systems of HV or MV power equipment.

Drug-induced movement disorders (DIMDs) are a group of neurological conditions caused by the use of certain medications. These disorders can significantly impact a person's quality of life and are essential to recognize and manage. This article provides an overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatment of DIMDs. DIMDs can manifest in various forms, including parkinsonism, tardive dyskinesia, dystonia, and akathisia. They are most commonly associated with medications such as neuroleptics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiemetics, and anticonvulsants. Risk factors for developing DIMDs include age, genetics, duration of medication use, and dose of medication. Symptoms of DIMDs can range from mild to severe and may include tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and involuntary movements. These symptoms can significantly impact a person's ability to perform daily activities and lead to social isolation and decreased quality of life. DIMD diagnoses are based on clinical evaluation, including a thorough medical history and physical examination. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans may also be used to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. Treatment of DIMDs involves the withdrawal of the offending medication if possible. Pharmacological treatments such as anticholinergic drugs, benzodiazepines, and dopamine agonists may also be used to manage symptoms. Non-pharmacological treatments such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy can also be beneficial. DIMDs are necessary neurological conditions that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Early recognition and management of these disorders are essential for optimizing outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms of DIMDs better and to develop more effective treatments.

Movement disorders encompass a diverse group of neurological conditions characterized by abnormal voluntary or involuntary movements. These disorders can be classified broadly into hyperkinetic and hypokinetic disorders. Excessive, involuntary movements, including tremors, dystonia, chorea, and myoclonus characterize hyperkinetic disorders. Tremors are rhythmic, involuntary movements occurring at rest or during movement. Dystonia involves sustained muscle contractions, leading to twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures. Chorea manifests as brief, irregular, involuntary movements that flow from one body part to another. Myoclonus consists of sudden, brief muscle contractions, either spontaneous or in response to a stimulus. Hypokinetic disorders are characterized by a lack of movement or difficulty initiating movement, as seen in Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism. Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, causing tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Parkinsonism refers to a group of disorders with similar symptoms to Parkinson's disease but with different underlying causes. Diagnosing movement disorders involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination. Neuroimaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, and functional imaging techniques may be used to assess brain structure and function. Additionally, laboratory tests, including genetic testing and biochemical markers, can help diagnose certain movement disorders.

This study analyzes the eating behavior and factors associated with the presence of disordered eating attitudes in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. It is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study conducted at a hospital in the Amazon region of Brazil. The Disordered Eating Attitude Scale reduced version (DEAS-s) was used to assess the risk of eating disorders and the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R21) to characterize eating behavior. A total of 205 patients participated, with a mean age of 37.5 ± 8.6 years, the majority being female (93.7%; p&lt;0.001), the mean BMI was 45.3±6.7 kg/m2. It was found that cognitive restraint had the highest mean (52.6±19.9; p&lt;0.001). As for the DEAS-s, the question with the highest mean was "spending one or more days without eating or consuming only liquids to lose weight" (2.80±1.99). Female participants had a higher score in the emotional eating (p=0.016). Disordered eating attitudes showed a correlation with emotional eating and uncontrolled eating. These results suggest that candidates for bariatric surgery may have susceptibility to eating disorders. The importance of a multidisciplinary team in monitoring during the preoperative period is highlighted.

Land use and cover change (LUCC) is an important method to investigate the causes of global environment change. We utilized the emergy ecological footprint (EEF) model to construct a land-use change model to be used as a systematic measuring tool for monitoring sustainable development trends. In particular, we estimated the eco-security of the Cing-jing region as a case study so that responsible agencies can use it to maintain a balance between ecological preservation and tourism development. The results indicated the following: First, the ecological environment of the Cing-jing region satisfied the safety standard in 2008–2014; however, the related indices increased considerably. Second, the grey model predicted a decrease in 2015–2024 ecological carrying capacities of Cing-jing and a large increase in capita EFs, resulting in a larger ecological deficit and higher EFI. The eco-security from 2015–2024 was higher compared to 7 years ago and is predicted to reach the Grade 2 intermediate level in 2022; thus the Cing-jing region is gradually becoming ecologically unsustainable. Strengths of our study included the use of EEF theory in a quantitative analysis of slope lands for the effective evaluation of ecological security. Finally, we expanded our research to include ecological security issues.

The presence of antibiotic residues in honey has recently become a growing public health concern due to the overuse of these products in beekeeping and their transfer to the food industry. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a simple, selective and sensitive method for the simultaneous identification and quantification of residues of twenty-two sulfonamides, trimethoprim and dapsone in honey using a rapid and reliable liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method. The developed method showed good linearity, specificity, precision (repeatability and intra-laboratory reproducibility) and recovery. The decision limit (CCalpha) ranged between 2.16-22.12 µg/kg for CCα, while the detection capability (CCbeta) was between 2.16- 2.67-27.36 µg/kg. The method proved to be rapid, reliable and effective for the determination of sulfonamides, trimethoprim and dapsone from honey samples. The average recoveries were estimated to be between 70 and 106%. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) were between 6-18%. In practice, the method is essential to check the honey sold on the market and ensure its safety before it reaches the consumer.

High-precision conical threads are widely used in responsible joints in the drilling of oil and gas wells. Difficult underground drilling conditions due to the occurrence of significant mechanical loads and an aggressive environment in wells require the use of workable materials that are often difficult to machine. The huge need for such connections dictates the use of high-performance cutting tools, which means that high demands are placed on their effective geometric performance. The study describes the theoretical dependence of the profile precision of the tapered drill-string tool-joint threads of all standard sizes on the complex of a cutting tool geometric parameters and cutting tool setting accuracy. The experiments include an assessment of the geometric accuracy of the profile of the obtained NC23 thread connector, depending on the values of the installation angles and the declared tangential displacement of the standard threaded carbide insert.

This paper presents an observer-based dynamic output feedback controller design procedure using Linear Matrix Inequality (LMI) optimization for second-order systems with uncertainty and persistent perturbation in the states. Using linear-quadratic criteria, cost functions are minimized in a two-stage procedure to compute optimal state feedback gains, and observer gains are coupled into a dynamic output feedback optimal controller. The LMI set used in the two stages is matrix inversion-free, a key issue for polytope formulation when uncertainty is present. The approach is tested in a mobile inverted pendulum robotic platform, and the effectiveness is verified in this underactuated and undesensed case.

: This study focuses on optimizing chlorophyll extraction techniques and strategically placing leaf disks to enhance chlorophyll concentration in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) leaves. Thirty sesame genotypes, categorized into light green (LG), middle green (MG), and deep green (DG) pigment groups based on leaf coloration, were selected from a larger pool of field-grown accessions. The investigation involved determining optimal SPAD value index measurements, quantifying pigment concentrations, exploring extraction solvents, and selecting suitable leaf disk positions. Significant variations in chlorophyll content were observed across genotypes, greenness categories, and leaf disk positions. The categorization of genotypes into DG, MG, and LG groups revealed a correlation between leaf appearance and chlorophyll content. The study highlighted a consistent relationship between carotenoids and chlorophyll, indicating their role in adaptation to warm environments. Examination of leaf disk positions revealed a significant chlorophyll gradient along the leaf blade, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols. Chlorophyll extraction experiments identified DMSO and 96% ethanol, particularly the later incubated for 10 minutes at 85°C, as effective choices. This recommendation considers factors like cost-effectiveness, time efficiency, safety, and environmental regulations, ensuring consistent and simplified extraction processes. For higher chlorophyll extraction, focusing on leaf tips and the 75% position along the sesame leaf blade is suggested, consistently yielding higher chlorophyll content. Our findings therefore, underscores insightful knowledge on chlorophyll gradients and encouraging for standardized protocols, that enabling researchers to refine experimental designs for precise and comparable chlorophyll measurements. Recommended solvent choices ensure reliable outcomes in plant physiology, ecology, and environmental studies.

: The activated carbons (ACs) derived from okara powder waste with high surface areas were modified with ammonia aqueous solution impregnation in an autoclave to enhance their CO2 adsorption properties toward CO2. The impregnated ACs were characterized in which surface chemical composition and properties of the ACs were analyzed by SEM-EDX, FTIR. Activated carbons were functionalized with ammonia aqueous solution (25%) through a hydrothermal process within 24; 48, and 72 hours. The adsorption performance of CO2 onto carbon samples was experimentally evaluated through a TPD CO2 measurement. FTIR spectra confirm the N-containing in N-modified activated carbons and the presence of the –C = O stretch and N-H groups. CO2 uptakes of N-modified activated carbons are 0.24; 1.78; 2.24 and 1.26 mmol/g, which are relatively comparable with those of activated carbons studied in in the literature.

Musyakalah is one of the Arabic linguistic styles included under the category of majaz. This style is commonly used in Al-Quran. The Indonesian translation of Al-Quran is a case where many of the figures of speech are translated literally, thereby causing serious semantic problems. Thus, the research problem of this is formulated with the following questions: 1) How many musyakalah ayahs are there in Al-Quran?; 2) How are the musyakalah ayahs translated, literally (harfiyya) or interpretatively (tafsiriyya)?; 3) How many ayahs are translated literally and how many are translated interpretatively?; and 4) Which translated musyakalah ayahs have the potential to raise semantic and theological problems? The corpus in this research consists of all musyakalah ayahs in Al-Quran and their translation to Indonesian published by the Department of Religious Affairs of Indonesia. The research adopted a descriptive-semantic method. The findings of this research are: 1) There are only eleven ayahs in Al-Quran using musyakalah style, namely: Alhasyr ayah 19, Ali Imran ayah 54, Annaml ayah 50, Alanfal ayah 30, Asysyura ayah 40, Albaqarah ayah 15, Almaidah 116, Aljatsiah ayah 34, Attaubah ayah 79, Annisa ayah 142, and Albaqarah 194; 2) The musyakalah ayahs translated literally are: Aljatsiah 34, Almaidah 116, Asysura 40, Annaml 50, and Alhasyr 19, whereas the musyakalah ayahs translated interpretatively are Albaqarah 194, Annisa 142, Attaubah 79, Albaqarah 15, Alanfal 30, and Ali Imran 54; 3) Of the eleven musyakalah ayahs, only Alhasyr ayah 19 that is translated correctly and does not have the potential of creating misinterpretation. Meanwhile, the interpretation of the other four ayahs can potentially cause misinterpretation or are against the basic principles of Islam. The six remaining ayahs are translated interpretatively and thus do not have the potential to be misinterpreted; 4) The findings suggest that musyakalah ayahs are more appropriately translated interpretatively. Therefore, the following is recommended: 1) Considering the different characteristics of Arabic and Indonesian languages, studies on Al-Quran translation into Indonesian should continuously be carried out; 2) In order to avoid misinterpretation, it is better that the translation of musyakalah ayahs uses tafsiriyya (interpretative) approach; 3) The harfiyya (literal) and tafsiriyya (interpretative) approaches should be developed for other styles beside musyakalah..

Globally increasing antibiotic resistance has been connected to the use of antibiotics in medical, veterinary, and agricultural medicine, contributing to the burden of antibiotic resistance in Asia and Europe. The main objective of this study was to correlations of antimicrobial-resistant of various pathogens in three compartments: humans, animals and the environment in India and Germany. A systematic search was carried out in Medline via PubMed, Google Scholar, and science direct, including studies published in 2022. Out of 532 papers, 24 were considered for meta-analysis. This study reveals that in India, β-lactam is highly resistant in animals. Quinolone, on the other hand, was highly resistant in humans. Furthermore, in the environment and integrated studies, aminoglycosides and β-lactams is resistant. While in Germany, a high rate of AMR resistance in all three sectors was reported in β-lactam. However, E. coli was the most frequent pathogen in both countries and is highly resistant to β-lactam, followed by cephalosporin in all the compartments. Monitoring and evaluating antibiotic-sensitivity patterns and developing proper antibiotic regimens may lead to improved outcomes for inhibiting and controlling E. coli infections in various parts of the world.

Reducing CO2 emissions is urgently needed to slow down the impacts of climate change. CO2 capture using an amine solution has been developed and implemented on pilot and commercial scales. However, amine scrubbing, in particular, produces a lot of degraded solvent as waste and is energy intensive. Solid sorbents have been called to overcome those drawbacks. In this work, waste biomass-derived carbon materials were developed and tested for CO2 capture and conversion. Advanced thermal chemical processes i.e. hydrothermal and pyrolysis were applied to produce materials from agri-food waste such as soybean and okara. It was found that the number of functional groups (-C=O and -OH) in activated carbon appears in the synthesized materials, implying the generation of surface oxygenated groups. Preliminary results showed that the synthesized activated carbons are obtained with good yields, and a relatively high surface area, which may be applied as CO2 adsorption materials to solve the CO2 emission problems.

The commercialization of historic streets constitutes a pivotal aspect of urban cultural heritage, and the comprehension of their visual perception serves as a valuable asset to urban planning and cultural conservation efforts. However, current research concerning the disparities in visual perception among diverse demographics within historic streets, as well as their spatiotemporal dynamics, remains insufficient. This study aims to utilize mobile eye-tracking technology to delve deeply into the visual perception characteristics of diverse demographics within commercialized historic streets, while also analyzing their spatiotemporal dynamics. We explore the disparities in visual perception of historic streets among groups with varying degrees of architectural knowledge and professional literacy. Through meticulous observation using mobile eye-tracking technology, we elucidate the visual perception patterns of different demographic characteristics through statistical analysis and spatiotemporal modeling. The findings reveal significant discrepancies in visual attention and perception among various groups. Participants with a higher understanding of architecture tend to focus more on architectural details and structures within the streetscape compared to those with a lower understanding, who exhibit greater interest in elements such as shops and signage. Moreover, during the process of perceiving the streetscape, participants’ eye movements transition from surrounding landscapes and historical edifices upon initial entry to the district, gradually shifting towards the commercial activities and distinctive architecture within the district. This study delves deeply into the visual perception characteristics and spatiotemporal dynamics of commercialized historic streets, providing invaluable insights for urban planning and cultural preservation endeavors. By revealing the impact of different demographic characteristics on the visual perception of historic streets, it offers new insights for urban planning and cultural heritage conservation.

The healthcare system is crucial to the development, standard of living, and sustainability of any country. Amid the pandemic, most developed countries are experiencing varying levels of difficulty managing their healthcare systems. Overloading of healthcare services is common, leading to prolonged waiting times for medical services; thus, the wastage of hospital resources must be addressed seriously. In this paper, we examine the problem of no-shows in outpatient clinics. Through a review of the literature and practical industrial experience, we identify the processes of these clinics. We then propose a robust optimisation approach for overbooking using a traditional overbooking model and a robust system. This model aims to mitigate the significant parameter uncertainties encountered during the pandemic. Considering risk aversion, the optimal policy for overbooking can be established while accounting for the costs associated with overbooking. The main contribution of this paper is the introduction of an alternative method to address the uncertainty of no-shows using an overbooking technique.

It is important to realize the transformation behavior of wüstite because it greatly affects the final structure of the oxide layer and the surface quality of the steel products. In the present study, the transformation behaviors of the wüstite layer are examined under nearly-oxygen-free conditions, to simulate the cooling processes after the hot rolled strip is coiled. As the single phase wüstite was prepared at 950˚C, the 460˚C transformed oxide layer was composed of a mixture of iron and magnetite formed through eutectoid reactions. For the 750˚C-fabricated wüstite, only magnetite was observed after transformation, without iron precipitates and residual wüstite. It is speculated that the unusual transformation behavior of the low-temperature-made wüstite results from the pseudo-structural intermediate phase transformation between wüstite and magnetite. This pseudo-structure is a pre-transformed wüstite and of various concentration of ferrous ion, which is determined by the fabrication conditions. During the hot strip mill process, the so-called wet scale, wüstite, is produced continuously from finish mill to laminar flow sections and ended at 570˚C. Consequently, the final eutectoid transformation below 570˚C is dominantly controlled by the surface temperature ranged from 750˚C to 950˚C for low carbon steel.

Outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns seastar (CoTS) represent a major cause of coral loss on the Great Barrier Reef. Outbreaks might be explained by enhanced larval survival supported by higher phytoplankton availability after flood events, yet little is known about CoTS larvae feeding behaviour, in particular their potential for selective feeding. Here, single- and mixed-species feeding experiments were conducted on CoTS bipinnaria larvae using five algae (Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Pavlova lutheri, Tisochrysis lutea , Dunaliella sp. and Chaetoceros sp.) and two algal concentrations (1000 and 2500 algae mL^-1). Cell counts using flow-cytometry at the beginning and end of each incubation experiment allowed us to calculate the filtration and ingestion rates of each species by CoTS larvae. In line with previous studies, CoTS larvae ingested more algae when initial algal concentration was higher. We found evidence for the selective ingestion of some species (Chaetoceros sp., Dunaliella sp.) over others (P. lutheri, P. tricornutum). The preferred algal species had the highest energy content, suggesting that CoTS selectively ingested the most energetic algae. Ultimately, combining these results with spatio-temporal patterns in phytoplankton communities will help elucidate the role of larval feeding behaviour in determining the frequency and magnitude of CoTS outbreaks.

Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) and sugarcane streak mosaic virus (SCSMV) are the primary viruses responsible for mosaic diseases in sugarcane. In this study, the mosaic viruses SCMV and SCSMV with the involvement of sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) were surveyed from eight commercial sugarcane cultivars grown in fields at four locations in East Java, Indonesia. Sugarcane leaves with mosaic symptoms were assessed for disease incidence and severity, and symptomatic leaves were collected for analysis. The incidence and severity of mosaic symptoms were the highest in the PS881 and NX04 cultivars grown in Kediri compared to the other cultivars. RT-PCR analysis showed that SCSMV was present in all sugarcane cultivars and locations. Interestingly, double mixed infections with SCMV were found in PS881, PS882, and Cening, whereas triple mixed infections with SrMV were found in the PS881 cultivar. Phylogenetic analysis grouped SCSMV, SCMV, and SrMV together with isolates from Thailand (KP987832.1), Florida, USA (MT725538.1), and Agentina (EU189037.1). The expression of ascorbate peroxidase gene (Apx) was increased in the virus-infected sugarcane cultivars and prominently elevated in the triple mixed infection of PS881 cultivars. However, the catalase gene (Cat) was slightly upregulated in the mixed infection group. The chlorophyll content was significantly reduced in the leaves of PS58, PS881, PS882, NX04, and HW Merah, in parallel with the expression of the photosystem I gene (PsaA). The expression of photosynthetic genes, such as ribulose-1,5 bisphosphate carboxylase small sub-unit (RbcS), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (Pepc), sucrose-phosphate synthase (Sps1), and PsaA, was significantly reduced and almost depleted in the triple mixed infection of PS881, except for Pepc expression, which remained approximately half of that in the control healthy sugarcane. The decrease in photosynthetic activity was confirmed by the decrease in ribulose-1,5 bisphosphate carboxylase (Rubisco) and PEPC proteins, as detected by immunoblot analysis. The decrease in photosynthetic parameters indicated that the mosaic viral infection substantially reduced the growth and yield of sugarcane.

Continuing the investigation already started (See Farcaş, A.-A.; Bende, A. PCCP 2024, 26, 14937), the light absorption and charge-transfer properties of the dopamine (DA), dopamine zwitterion (called as dopamine-semi-quinone or DsQ) and dopamine-o-quinone (DoQ) adsorbed on the graphene nanoparticle surface have been investigated using the ground state and linear-response time-dependent density functional theories, considering the B97X-D3BJ/def2-TZVPP level of theory. In terms of the strength of molecular adsorption on the surface, the DsQ form has 50 % higher binding energy than that for the DA or DoQ cases (-20.24 kcal/mol vs. -30.41 kcal/mol). The results obtained for electronically excited states and UV-Vis absorption spectra show that the photochemical behavior of DsQ is more similar to DA than that observed for DoQ. Of the three systems analyzed, the DsQ-based complex showed the most active CT phenomenon, both in terms of the number of CT-like states and the amount of charge transferred. Of the first thirty electronically excited states computed for the DsQ case, eleven are purely CT-type and nine are mixed CT and localized (or Frenkel) excitations. By varying the adsorption distance between the molecule and the surface vertically, the amount of charge transfer obtained for DA decreases significantly as the distance increases, for DoQ it remains stable, while for DsQ there are states for which little change is observed, while for others there is a significant change. Furthermore, the mechanistic compilation of the electron orbital diagrams of the individual components cannot describe in detail the nature of the excitations inside the complex.

Research on fall and movement detection with wearable devices has witnessed promising growth. However, there are few publicly available datasets, all recorded with smartphones, that prevent authors to evenly compare their new proposals. Here, we present a dataset of falls and activities of daily living (ADL) acquired with a self-developed device composed of two types of accelerometer and one gyroscope. It consists of 19 ADL and 15 fall types performed by 23 young adults, 15 ADL types performed by 14 healthy and independent participants over 62 years old, and data from one participant of 60 years old that performed all ADL and falls. These activities were selected based on a survey and a literature analysis. We test the dataset with widely used feature extraction and a simple to implement threshold based classification, achieving up to 96~\% of accuracy in fall detection. An individual activity analysis demonstrates that most errors coincide in a few number of activities where algorithms could be focused on. Finally, validation tests with elderly people significantly reduced the fall detection performance of the tested features. This validates findings of other authors and encourages to develop new strategies with this new dataset as benchmark.

Background: To evaluate derived neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (dNLR) in predicting the prognosis of patients with locally advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma (LAOSCC), and the survival benefits from docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-FU (TPF) induction chemotherapy (IC); Methods: Patients from a phase III trial involving TPF IC in stage III/IVA OSCC patients (NCT01542931) were enrolled. Receiver operating characteristic curves were built and area under the curve was computed to determine dNLR cutoff points. Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival and Cox proportional hazards models were used for longitudinal analysis; (3) Results: 224 patients were identified (median age, 55.4 yr; range, 26 to 75 yr; median follow-up, 90 months; range, 3.2 to 93 months); Cutoff points for dNLR was 1.555. Multivariate analysis showed dNLR was an independent negative predictive factor for survival (overall survival (OS): hazard ratio (HR) = 1.154, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.018-1.309, P = 0.025, disease-free survival (DFS): HR = 1.123, 95% CI: 0.260-1.000, P = 0.050, local recurrence-free survival (LRFS): HR = 1.134, 95% CI: 1.002-1.283, P = 0.047, distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS): HR = 1.146, 95% CI: 1.010-1.300, P = 0.035). Low dNLR combining cTNM stage III disease predicts benefit from TPF IC for the patients [OS (χ² = 4.674, P = 0.031), DFS (χ² = 7.134, P = 0.008), LRFS (χ² = 5.937, P = 0.015) and DMFS (χ² = 4.832, P = 0.028)]; (4) Conclusions: dNLR is an independent negative predictive factor in LAOSCC patients. Patients of cTNM stage III and low dNLR can benefit from TPF IC.

Background: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Acinetobacter baumannii in aquatic environments and fish microbiota by integrating culture-dependent methods, 16S metagenomics, and antibiotic resistance profiling. Methods: A total of 83 A. baumannii isolates were recovered using culture-dependent methods from intra-hospital infections (IHI), wastewater (WW) and surface water (SW) samples from two southern Romanian cities in august 2022. The antibiotic susceptibility was screened using disc diffusion, microdilution, PCR and Whole Genome Sequencing assays. Results: The highest microbial load in the analyzed samples was found in Glina, Bucharest for both WW and SW samples across all investigated phenotypes. For Bucharest isolates, the resistance levels corresponded to fluoroquinolones &gt; aminoglycosides &gt; β-lactam antibiotics. In contrast, A. baumannii from upstream SW samples in Targoviste showed the highest resistance to aminoglycosides. The blaOXA-23 gene was frequently detected in IHI, WW, and SW isolates in Bucharest but was absent in Targoviste. Molecular phylogeny revealed presence of ST10 in Târgoviște isolates and ST2 in Bucharest isolates, while other minor STs were not specifically correlated with a sampling point. Using 16S rRNA sequencing, significant differences in microbial populations between the two locations was identified. The low abundance of Alphaproteobacteria and Actinobacteria in both locations suggests environmental pressures or contamination events. Conclusions: These findings indicate significant fecal contamination and potential public health risks, emphasizing the need for improved water quality monitoring and management.

(1) Background: This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the cephalometric evaluation of facial height ratio (FHR) and growth patterns. (2) Methods: We assessed facial height ratios, Y-axis to SN angle, and growth patterns in 94 participants from Timis county using digital cephalograms. Participants were categorized based on Angle’s classification. Cephalograms were digitally traced and analyzed using WebCeph imaging software. Statistical analysis was conducted using Python version 3.11.9. (3) Results: Significant correlations were observed between FHR and craniofacial development, particularly regarding hypodivergent growth patterns. In a sample of 94, molar classes showed varying patterns: Class I—33.3% hyperdivergent, 61.5% normodivergent, 33.3% hypodivergent. Class II—50% hyperdivergent, 30.8% normodivergent, 52% hypodivergent. Class III—16.7% hyperdivergent, 7.7% normodivergent, 14.7% hypodivergent. Y-axis to SN angle values were within normal limits across groups (Group I: 65.0 (IQR: 61.2-69.0), Group II: 65.0 (IQR: 62.0-69.0), Group III: 67.0 (IQR: 59.7- 69.0). A strong negative correlation was found between Y-axis to SN angle and Jarabak’s ratio (r = -0.72, p &lt; 0.001), highlighting the need for holistic assessment methods in orthodontic practice. (4) Conclusion: Patients from Timis county predominantly exhibit a hypodivergent growth pattern across all malocclusion types. Understanding these patterns is essential for comprehensive orthodontic treatment planning. Further research is needed to explore the implications of these findings on treatment outcomes and patient care.

According to evolutionary cancer cell biology ECCB, cancer stem cells do not arise from normal stem cells, but rather from the functional ACD phenotype of the germline. This phenotype proliferates through asymmetric cell division, producing self-renewing cells and non-proliferating daughter cells with cancer stem cell qualities (CSCs). ECCB posits that cancer stem cells themselves do not proliferate. Similar to protists, there is a close reciprocal relationship between both sister cells that collectively form a germ and stem cell lineage. These sister cells share functional roles: the proliferating cancer germline cells generate stem cells, while the non-proliferating cancer stem cells accumulate progenitor cells for new germline clones. ECCB distinguishes between primary CSCs, which are associated with carcinogenesis and primary tumors, and secondary CSCs, which are linked to metastases. This unicellular stem cell system is homologous to that of parasitic protists, such as amoebae. Both cancer stem cells and amoebae stem cells are generated by an oxygen-sensitive germline and are vulnerable to damage when oxygen levels exceed 6.0% (germline hyperoxia). Oxygen concentrations above this threshold can damage the germline genome. Dysfunctional germline cells do not undergo senescence; instead, they continue to cycle through defective symmetric cell cycles However, to regain functionality, the germline genome requires repair by hyperpolyploid giant cells known as native PGCCs, which are homologous to the multinucleated genome repair structures MGRS found in protists. Native PGCCs differ in some respects from genotoxic-induced PGCCs

Ensuring the accuracy of wind power prediction is paramount for the reliable and stable operation of power systems. This study introduces a novel approach aimed at enhancing the precision of wind power prediction through the development of a multiscale hybrid model. This model integrates advanced methodologies including Improved Intrinsic Mode Function with Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN), Permutation Entropy(PE), Least Squares Support Vector Regression (LSSVR), Regularized Extreme Learning Machine(RELM), Multi-head Attention (MHA), and Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU). Firstly, the ICEEMDAN technique is employed to decompose the non-stationary raw wind power data into multiple relatively stable sub-modes, while concurrently utilizing PE to assess the complexity of each sub-mode. Secondly, the dataset is reconstituted into three distinct components: high-frequency, mid-frequency, and low-frequency, to alleviate data complexity. Following this, the LSSVR, RELM, and MHA-BiGRU models are individually applied to predict the high, mid,and low-frequency components, respectively. Thirdly, the parameters of the low-frequency prediction model are optimized utilizing the Dung Betele Optimizer(DBO) algorithm. Ultimately, the predicted results of each component are aggregated to derive the final prediction. Empirical findings illustrate the exceptional predictive performance of the multiscale hybrid model incorporating LSSVR, RELM,and MHA-BiGRU. In comparison to other benchmark models, the proposed model exhibits a reduction in Root Mean Square Error(RMSE) values of over 10%, conclusively affirming its superior predictive accuracy.

Secondary movement disorders (SMDs) represent a heterogeneous group of neurological conditions characterized by abnormal, involuntary movements resulting from various underlying causes. This comprehensive review aims to thoroughly understand SMDs, including their epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, and management strategies. SMDs encompass a spectrum of movement abnormalities, including dystonia, chorea, athetosis, myoclonus, tics, and tremors. They can arise from a multitude of etiologies, such as drug-induced effects, post-infectious processes, metabolic disturbances, and structural brain lesions. The epidemiology of SMDs varies depending on the underlying cause, with some conditions being more prevalent in specific populations or age groups. Understanding the pathophysiology of SMDs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and targeted management. Diagnosing SMDs requires a comprehensive approach, including a detailed history, physical examination, laboratory investigations, neuroimaging studies, and sometimes electrophysiological studies. Management of SMDs is multifaceted and may involve pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical interventions. Individualized treatment plans are essential, considering the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and patient preferences. Emerging concepts in the field of SMDs include advancements in genetic research, identification of biomarkers, and development of novel therapeutic approaches. There is a growing focus on patient-centered care and improving the quality of life for individuals with SMDs. In conclusion, SMDs pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for optimal management. Continued research and collaboration are essential for advancing our understanding and treatment of these complex disorders.

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

The accurate wellbore pressure control not only prevents from lost circulation/blowout and fracturing formation by managing density of drilling fluid, but also improves productivity by mitigating reservoir damage. The geothermal pressure calculated by constant parameters for geothermal well would bring big error easily, as the changes of physical, rheological and thermal properties of drilling fluids with temperature were neglected. This paper researches the wellbore pressure coupling by calculating the temperature distribution with existed model, fitting the rule of density of drilling fluid with temperature and establishing mathematical models to stimulate the wellbore pressures, which is expressed as the variation of Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD) under different conditions. With this method, temperature and ECDs in the wellbore of the first medium-deep geothermal well ZK212 Yangyi Geothermal Field in Tibet were determined, and the sensitivity analysis was simulated by assumed parameters, i.e. circulating time, flow rate, geothermal gradient, diameters of wellbore, rheological models and regimes, the results indicated the geothermal gradient and flow rate were the most influence parameters on the temperature and ECD distribution, and additives added in drilling fluid should be careful which would change the properties of drilling fluid and induce the temperature redistribution. To make sure the safe drilling, velocity of pipes tripping into the hole, depth and diameter of wellbore are considered to control the surge pressure.

Our previous study has found the anti-tumor activity of oleandrin in osteosarcoma cells in vitro, but the signal transduction process of cell apoptosis induced by oleandrin is uncertain, which is explored in this study. Fluorescence staining and flow cytometry (FCM) was performed to detect the cell apoptosis, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Caspase-3 activity was detected using a commercial kit. The protein expression of cytoplasmic cytochrome c, mitochondrial cytochrome c, bcl-2, bax, caspase-9, Fas, FasL, caspase-8 and caspase-3 was detected using western blot. A pan-caspase inhibitor, z-VAD-fmk, was applied to block the apoptotic pathway and the apoptosis status were re-tested. We found that oleandrin significantly induced the increased apoptosis of U2OS cells. Meanwhile, the intracellular ROS was elevated, but the MMP decreased. The cytochrome c in mitochondria was notably decreased but increased in cytoplasm. The caspase-3 activity was also enhanced with the increase of drug concentration and treatment time. Oleandrin also down-regulated the level of bcl-2, but remarkably up-regulated the expression of bax, cleaved caspase-9, Fas, FasL, cleaved caspase-8 and cleaved caspase-3. Furthermore, the pre-treatment with z-VAD-fmk almost completely reverted the oleandrin-induced apoptosis. The results suggested that oleandrin induces the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells via mitochondrial- and death receptor-dependent pathways.

The liver diseases are posing serious threat to human health associated with abusive use of allopathy medicines, especially in developing economies like Pakistan. The strengthening of detoxification system using natural products might be a suitable option to minimize the liver problems. In this current research, Zingiber officinale and Azadirachta indica were evaluated for their hepatoprotective role. For the purpose, 20 Sprague Dawley rats were equally divided into four groups i.e., negative control, paracetamol positive control, 2.5% ginger and 2% neem powder, respectively. During 42 days study, the levels of bilirubin and liver enzymes significantly elevated due to liver damage. Although, the values dropped (20-25%) in treatment group. Serum glucose and serum lipid profile increased in positive control group, but reduced (5-10%) in both ginger and neem groups. The serum protein profile declined in liver damage group, however, improved (~5%) in treatment groups. The hematological parameters slightly declined in liver damage group, but increased in ginger and neem groups. Moreover, the white blood cells differential count and renal parameters showed abnormal values in liver damage group, but improved after treatment. This study is promising and highlighted the hepato-protective role of neem and ginger that may open several avenues of research.

In this paper, a new way to obtain photoactive cements was presented. In this method amorphous TiO2 is added to cooler during the cooling of the cement clinker (Górażdże company) during cement production. Amorphous TiO2 was taken from the installation for obtaining titanium dioxide using the sulphate method. During the studies amorphous TiO2 was added to clinker at different temperature 300, 600, 700 and 800 °C. The properties of the obtained cement were tested during the bending and compressive strength and beginning and the end of bending setting time measurements. The adhesion of the obtained materials to concrete block, ceramic brick and plasterboard were also evaluated. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained materials was studied during NO and BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, p-,m-,o-xylenes decomposition) decomposition. Cement with 5 wt.% TiO2 added to clinker at 700 C had the highest photocatalytic activity and the best mechanical properties.

This paper proposes a method to utilize weather and land cover models to generate future environmental scenarios, and presents the watershed models to simulate the hydrological impact on watershed-scale hydrology. The Weather Generator model and General Circulation Model were applied to produce rainfall and local temperature under different climate conditions, and the Conservation and Land Use and its Effects model was incorporated to simulate future land cover variability. The circumstances of future climate and land cover changes were used as inputs to drive the HEC-HMS rainfall runoff model for obtaining surface runoff in a mountainous area. The WASH123D model was then utilized for the entire watershed simulation. Modeling results were then examined to discuss hydrological impacts on three different time periods: near future (2020-2039), future (2050-2069), and distant future (2080-2099). The Fengshan Creek basin in northern Taiwan was selected as study site. Simulations results indicated that the influence of climate change revealed more relevant effects when compared to local land cover changes. The ground water levels tended to diminish as the land cover area changed. In addition, both river and groundwater levels reveal that it is drier in dry season and wetter in wet season in future.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer mortality worldwide, and innovative drugs for the treatment of colorectal cancer are continually being revealed. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a common clinical chemotherapeutic drug. Acquired resistance to 5-FU is a clinical challenge in colorectal cancer. Parecoxib is a selective COX-2-specific inhibitor, which has been demonstrated to inhibit metastasis in colorectal cancers in our previous study. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic antimetastatic activities of parecoxib to 5-FU in human colorectal cancer cells and determine the underlying mechanism. parecoxib and 5-FU synergistically suppressed metastasis in colorectal cancer cells. Treatment with the parecoxib /5-FU combination induced an increase in E-cadherin and decrease in β-catenin. The parecoxib/5-FU combination could inhibit MMP-9 and MMP-2 expression and MMP-9 activity, and the NF-κB pathway might be suppressed as well. Mechanistic analysis denoted that the parecoxib/5-FU combination hindered the essential molecules of the PI3K/Akt route to obstruct metastatic colorectal cancer. Furthermore, the parecoxib/5-FU combination could inhibit reactive oxygen species. Our work showed the antimetastatic capacity of the parecoxib/5-FU combination for colorectal cancers via targeting the PI3K/Akt /NF-κB pathway.

In this study, the separation conditions of UHPLC-QTOF-MS and the extraction conditions of QuEChERS were optimized. The analytical process for determining Broflanilide residues in different soil types was successfully established and applied to its adsorption, desorption and leaching in soil. Broflanilide was extracted from soil with acetonitrile as extraction solvent, and purified with 50 mg PSA + 150 mg MgSO4. The modified UHPLC-QTOF-MS method was used for determination. In different types of soil, the average recovery of Broflanilide was 87.7% -94.38%, and the RSD was lower than 7.6%. In the analysis and determination of the adsorption, desorption and leaching properties in four soils, the RSD was less than 9.2%, showing good stability and can be applied to the analysis and determination of the residue of Broflanilide in different soils.

As waterflooding multi-layer reservoirs get into the high-water-cut stage, inter-layer conflicts become increasingly serious, leading to a worsening development effect over time. Production layers regroup is an effective approach for resolving inter-layer conflicts and improving waterflooding efficiency. At the current stage, there are limitations for most of the methods of production layers regroup. This article proposes a smart method for optimizing the layer regroup plan based on genetic algorithm. Comprehensively considering various factors that affect the regroup of layers, based on the combination principle of "smaller intra-group variance and larger inter-group variance of each influencing factor are expected ", genetic algorithm is used to calculate the fitness value of the initial combination schemes, the advantageous schemes with higher fitness values are selected as the basis of the next generation. Then crossover and mutation operations are performed to those advantageous schemes to generate new schemes. Through continuous selection and evolution, until the global optimal solution with the highest fitness value is found, the optimal combination scheme is determined. Comparative analysis with numerical simulation results demonstrates the reliability of this intelligent method, with an increased oil recovery of 4.34% for the sample reservoir. Unlike selecting a preferable plan from a limited number of predefined combination schemes, this method is an automatic optimization to solve the optimal solution of the problem. It improves both efficiency and accuracy as compared to conventional reservoir engineering methods, numerical simulation methods and most of the mathematical methods, thus could provide effective guidance for EOR strategies of waterflooding reservoirs in high-water-cut stage.

The epidemic of obesity has increased worldwide and is associated with comorbidities as diabetes as cardiovascular disease. Strategies that modulate body weight and improves glycemic metabolism has increased, and the bariatric surgeries as Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) has been highlighted in obesity treatment. However, the mechanism by which SG reduces body weight and improves glycemic control are unknow. C57BL mice were submitted to a 10 weeks high fat-diet protocol and submitted to SG. Food intake, fed/fasted glycemia and hypothalamic anorexigenic and orexigenic gene expression were evaluated. SG reduces body weight, fasting glycemia, insulinemia and leptinemia in obese mice. Moreover, SG reduces food and total calorie intake with no alterations in the expression of anorexigenic and orexigenic gene expression. These data indicates that SG improves obesity associated alterations, at least in part, by reduction on food intake. This effect is not associated with the classic food intake pathway in hypothalamus, indicating the involvement of supplementary pathways in this process.

Although ovarian cystic teratoma is the most common ovarian tumor, complications are quite rare. However, it is important to be recognized by the radiologist in order to avoid inaccurately diagnosing them as malignant lesions. This case report describes a 61-year-old postmenopausal woman, who presented to the emergency room with abdominal pain following a minor blunt abdominal trauma. In this context, a CT scan was performed, which showed the presence of round, hypodense masses randomly distributed in the peritoneum, with coexisting ascites in moderate amount; ovarian carcinoma with peritoneal carcinomatosis was suspected. The patient was hospitalized and an MRI of the abdomen and pelvis was recommended for a more detailed lesion characterization. Following this examination, the patient was diagnosed with mature cystic ovarian teratoma complicated by rupture. Surgery was performed, and the outcome was favorable. The cases of ruptured cystic teratomas are rare, and to our knowledge, this is the first occurrence described in literature. Special attention must be paid when confronting with such a case in medical practice, since it can easily misdiagnosed as peritoneal carcinomatosis

Green leaf volatiles (GLVs) are important in giving grape a fresh and green aroma. But the changes in GLVs during the phenological development of grapevines are not well known. This study analysed the GLVs and transcription levels of associated biosynthetic genes in six grape species from the Loess Plateau region at five stages of maturation. Thirteen GLVs were detected, showing unique patterns for each grape type at various growth phases. The primary components in six grapes were (E)-2-Hexenal, (E)-2-Hexen-1-ol, and Hexanal. With the exception of Cabernet Franc in 2019, the overall GLV contents of the six types generally increased during growth and development, peaking or stabilizing at harvest. And Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Gernischt, and Cabernet Sauvignon exhibited higher total contents among the varieties. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between the levels of Hexanal, 1-Hexanol, (E)-2-Hexen-1-ol, (Z)-3-Hexenyl acetate, Nonanal, and (E, E)-2,6-Nonadienal and the expression of VvHPL and VvAAT genes in the LOX-HPL pathway. Specifically, VvHPL emerges as a potential candidate gene responsible for species-specific differences in GLV compounds. Comprehending the changing patterns in the biosynthesis and accumulation of GLVs offers viticulturists and enologists the opportunity to devise targeted strategies for improving the aromatic profile of grapes and wines.

Thoracic aortic calcium (TAC) appears to be a subclinical marker of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and to predict CV mortality. However, studies on TAC use tomographic scans obtained for coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, which does not include the aortic arch. This study evaluates TAC prevalence in aortic arch (AAC), ascending (ATAC) and descending thoracic aorta (DTAC) and verify whether they are associated with the same CV risk factors. Cross-sectional analysis, including 2,427 participants (mean age 55.6 ± 8.7; 54,1% women) of the ELSA-Brasil cohort. Nonenhanced ECG-gated tomographies were performed in 2015-2016. Multivariable logistic regression estimated the CV risk factors associated with calcium in each segment. Overall prevalence of ATAC, AAC and DTAC was, 23,1%, 62.1%, and 31.2%, respectively. About 90.4% of the individuals with TAC had AAC and only 19.5% had calcium in all segments. In the multivariable analysis, increasing age, lower levels of schooling, current smoking, higher body mass index, and hypertension remained associated with calcium in all segments. No sex or race/ethnicity differences were found in any aortic segment. Diabetes and Dyslipidemia were associated with ATAC and DTAC, but not with AAC, suggesting that AAC may reflect an overlap of mechanisms that impact vascular health, including atherosclerosis.

The physics of Hubble's law, motivated by the anomalous acceleration of Pioneer 10/11, suggests that the Hubble constant corresponds to a gravitational field of the Universe. The Hubble constant inferred from Pioneer 10/11 data is $\sim 69$ km/s/Mpc. The anomalous acceleration of Pioneer 10/11 can be interpreted as an observational evidence for Mach's principle. The redshift is an apparent value. Its intrinsic value has a limit resulting to $v

We changed the symmetry of the Weak Force from SU(2) to the quaternion group $Q_8$, and found that spin spacetime separates into two complementary spaces: a spin polarization spacetime of even parity states, and a spin coherence space, in the $S^3$ hypersphere, of odd parity coherent states. Under the quaternion group, spin is a boson of spin 1 in free flight and a fermion of spin $\frac{1}{2}$ when measured. It immediately follows that neutrinos are not needed to balance spin and conserve energy in beta decay. Additionally, we find the boson electrons emitted in beta decay are odd to parity, leading to parity conservation even though the observed beta distribution is asymmetrical.

A surge of b-phenylethylamine (PEA), an endogenous monoamine found in traces in the human brain and naturally present in chocolate, has been commonly associated with romantic love earning it the nickname of “love molecule”. The origin of this association must be traced to a speculation dating back to the early eighties that has over time become something of a factoid, reaching a large diffusion through the sharing phenomenon of the Internet. What is disputed in this paper is the existence of any direct biochemical or physiological evidence of the role of PEA in any of the phases of romantic love in the human species. The actual and possible roles of PEA in human physiology are reviewed.

The development of biofuels and biodiesel industry specifically, has resulted in the generation of large amounts of glycerol as a surplus. The conversion of glycerol, into chemicals with indus-trial interest, through anaerobic fermentation using E. coli as a biocatalyst is an attractive alter-native to improve economic performance in the biodiesel industry, for example through the bi-otransformation of residual glycerol into ethanol. For 2019, the size of the global ethanol market was valued at $ 89.1 billion US dollar. Biodiesel can be produced from several materials like rapeseed, palm, soya, corn, palm kernel, frying oil or olive-pomace oil (OPO). The last, can be extracted from alperujo, byproduct of olive oil process. However, olive-pomace oil converting into biodiesel is not enough established to achieve a global olive-oil/biodiesel derived process with minimized waste generation. Traditionally biodiesel production process produces an equivalent of 10% by mass of glycerol as a waste or by-product. This work explores the conver-sion of residual glycerol into chemicals like ethanol and hydrogen with a focus on projecting raw material potential availability from OPO, contributing to the promotion of the use of biofu-els and biodegradable compounds.

Arc sensors have been used in seam tracking and widely studied since the 80s; commercial arc sensing products for T and V shaped grooves have been developed. However, it is difficult to use these arc sensors in narrow gap welding because arc stability and sensing accuracy are not satisfactory. Pulse gas melting arc welding (P-GMAW) has been successfully applied in narrow gap welding and all position welding processes, so it is worthwhile to research P-GMAW arc sensing technology. In this paper, we derived a linear mathematical P-GMAW model for arc sensing, and the assumptions for the model are verified through experiments and finite element methods. Finally, the linear characteristics of the mathematical model were investigated. In torch height changing experiments, uphill experiments, and groove angle changing experiments the P-GMAW arc signals all satisfied the linear rules. In addition, the faster the welding speed, the higher the arc signal sensitivities; the smaller the groove angle, the greater the arc sensitivities. The arc signal variation rate needs to be modified according to the welding power, groove angles, and swing or rotate speed.

A The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of different endodontic irrigants and adhesive systems on resin bond strength of fiber post cementation. 144 single-rooted, unrestored human teeth were endodontically treated and randomly divided into 12 groups according to 4 endodontic irrigants (distilled water as control; EDTA 17%; NaOCl 5%; clorhexidine 2%) and 3 different adhesive/resin cement systems (etch-and-rinse: ortofosforic acid, Parabond® A+B/Paracore®; self-etch: ParaBond® Non-Rinse Conditioner, Parabond® A+B /Paracore®; Universal: ClearfilTM Universal Bond/ ClearfilTM DC Core Plus). 48 h after post cementation ten teeth from each group were cross sectioned into 3 discs (cervical, middle and apical regions). 30 specimens of each group (n=30) were submitted to push-out test at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The remaining 2 teeth of each group were sectioned in the same manner and the resin-dentin interface was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results were statistically analyzed with the ANOVA and Tukey’s test (< 0,01). The adhesive protocols and post space region showed no significant effect on bond strength (> 0.01). The combination of NaOCl 5% and ClearfilTM Universal Bond reduced the adhesive strength (< 0.01). The NaOCl 5%, in relation with other irrigants, significantly decreased the push-out bond strength.

In order to explore the yield-increasing mechanism of mechanized potato planting with corn straw mulching, a two-year ( 2021 and 2022 ) field experiment was conducted to study the effects of mechanized no-tillage with straw mulching on potato yield and water use efficiency. This experiment included corn straw mulching potato mechanized no-tillage planting ( JG ), plastic film mulching ( HM ) and open flat planting ( CK ). The results showed that mechanical no-tillage with straw mulching had significant effects on soil water content, yield and water use efficiency in 0-100 cm soil layer (p&lt; 0.05). There was no significant difference in yield between JG and HM, but it was significantly higher than that of CK. The yield of JG was 3.09 %~12.27 % higher than that of CK. The yield increase was mainly achieved by increasing the potato weight per plant ( 0.697 ~ 0.862** ) and the average single potato weight ( 0.048 ~ 0.631 ). The tuber weight per plant was positively correlated with the plant height at seedling stage ( 0.03 ~ 0.92** ), and positively correlated with the dry weight of stems and leaves at tuber expansion stage and starch accumulation stage ( 0.74** ~ 0.95**). It was negatively correlated with the number of branches at tuber formation stage ( -0.33 ~ -0.88** ). Compared with CK, JG could significantly improve the water use efficiency of potato and reduce the water consumption during the whole growth period of crops. In 2021, JG was 6.5 % higher than CK, and HM was 6.88 % lower than CK. In 2022, JG and HM increased water use efficiency by 26.17 % and 14.50 % compared with CK. It can be seen that JG is a green and efficient mechanized potato cultivation technology suitable for dry farming areas.

Background: The morbidity of myocardial infarction is keeping raise in this decade. Because of high safety and operability , percutaneous coronary intervention(PCI) has been used to conquer this disease for more than 20 years.An important complication of PCI is contrast induced nephropathy(CIN), which raises our attention. Previously, we started a study to explore the correlation between acute kidney injury and myonecrosis after scheduled percutaneous coronary intervention. Our study showed that the rate of CI-AKI in patients with post-procedural myocardial injury and undergoing elective PCI was higher than that in patients free of injury. Methods: In this study,forty male rats were randomly divided into four groups: control group (n=8), CM group (n=12), AMI group (n=8) and AMI+CM group (n=12), then velocity of renal artery blood flow (VRABF), computer tomography (CT), serum creatinine(Scr), reactive oxidative species (ROS), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and TUNEL were used to estimate the injury of kidney. We analyzed 327 non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome subjects undertaking elective PCI. Serum levels of creatinine (SCr) and the eGFR before coronary angiography, and 24–72 h after contrast administration were recorded to assess the renal function. Results: The data showed that VRABF was lower in AMI+CM group than CM group from 0 minute to 24h and CT number in cortex was higher in AMI+CM group than CM group at 4-hour. As well as the level of Scr in AMI+CM group displayed a significantly increase at 24-hour compared with CM group. The histopathologic scores and percentage of tubular cell apoptosis were higher in AMI+CM group at 24-hour. In 327 patients, we found that CI-AKI occurred more often in subjects with post-procedural myonecrosis (PMN) than in those without PMN (20.8% versus 5.8%, respectively, P=0.001). Conclusion: Compared to the elective patient, the injury of CIN exhibited a higher severity in AMI patient.

N-Nitroso-3-morpholinosydnonimine 3 was prepared by nitrosation of SIN-1 and characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and HRMS. Its structure, confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, was found in agreement with its mesoionic and aromatic character. Unlike SIN-1, which releases both nitric oxide and superoxide radical, decomposition of this nitrosylated sydonimine could yield nitric oxide as the only decomposition product, and thus without the formation of toxic peroxynitrite.

In a one price economy, the Fundamental Theorem of Asset Pricing (FTAP) establishes that no-arbitrage is equivalent to the existence of an equivalent martingale measure. Such an equivalent measure can be derived as the normal unit vector of the hyperplane that separates the attainable gain subspace and the convex cone representing arbitrage opportunities. However, in two-price financial models (where there is a bid-ask price spread), the set of attainable gains is not a subspace anymore. We use convex optimization, and the conic property of this region to characterize the “No-Arbitrage” principle in financial models with the bid-ask price spread present. This characterization will lead us to the generation of a set of price factor random variables. Under such a set, we can find the lower and upper bounds (supper-hedging and sub-hedging bounds) for the price of any future cash flow. We will show that for any given cash flow, for which the price is outside the above range, we can build a trading strategy that provides one with an arbitrage opportunity. We will generalize this structure to any two-price finite-period financial model.

As the most active plateau on the Earth, the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has a complex crust-mantle structure. Knowledge of the distribution of such a structure provides information for understanding the underlying geodynamic processes. We obtains a three-dimensional density model of crustal and upper mantle beneath Qinghai-Tibet plateau and its surrounding areas from the residual geoid anomalies using the Earth Gravitational Model (EGM) 2008. We estimate a refined density model by iterations, using an initial density contrast model. We confirm that the EGM2008 mission products can be used to constrain the crust-mantle density structures. Our major findings are: (1). At 300-400 km depth, high-D anomalies terminate around Jinsha River Suture (JRS) in the central TP, suggesting that the Indian plate has been reached over the Bangong Nujiang Suture (BNS) and almost reach to the JRS. (2). On the eastern TP, low-D anomalies at the depth of 0-300 km together with high-D anomalies at 400-670 km further verified the current eastward subduction of Indian plate. The ongoing subduction provides forces to the occurrences of frequent earthquakes and volcano. (3). At 600 km depth, low-D anomalies inside the TP illustrate the existence of hot weak material beneath there, contributing to the external material inward-thrusting.

Water management can improve the quality of valuable ecosystem services but can be costly to implement and the management costs are covered by national taxes collected by water users. Based on 30 valuation studies of water quality improvement from the Environmental Valuation Information System (EVIS) database provided by Korea Environment Institute (KEI), a meta-regression analysis was employed to measure the benefits that major river basins provided to the society. We compare these benefits to the costs, namely River Management Funds (RMFs) which are financial resources to support a variety of projects for managing and improving upstream water quality. Based on benefit-cost comparison, this study evaluates the efficiency of water resource management in South Korea. This study also provides policy options that are helpful to maintain the sustainability of water resource by improving the planning and performance of water management in the long run.

Microwave absorbers with lightweight, good stability and high efficiency have attracted much attention for their applications in many contemporary fields. In this work, the 3D porous (Ni@NO-C)n/NO-C composite absorber was prepared by a wet chemistry method with Ni chains and melamine as precursors, in which NO-C (N,O-doped carbon) encapsulated Ni particles are homogenously dispersed in the 3D porous networks of NO-C in the form of (Ni@NO-C)n chains. The special microstructure of the as-prepared material is proved to be benefit for the improvement of its microwave adsorption performance. The as-synthesized (Ni@NO-C)n/NO-C composite ab-sorber exhibited an effective absorption bandwidth of 4.1 GHz and an extremely large reflection loss of -72.3 dB. The excellent microwave absorbing performances can be ascribed to the coopera-tive consequence of dielectric loss and magnetic loss along with the balance between attenuation capability and impedance match.

The jalapeño pepper is a vegetable of great economic importance worldwide. However, low germination efficiency, weak seedlings, and a high mortality rate during transplant compromise the viability and sustainability of the crop. An innovative solution is the nanopriming tech-nique, an emerging and novel technology, which involves the imbibition of seeds for a specific period using mineral nanoparticles. The addition of micronutrients such as Zinc and Molyb-denum has been used in seed germination and early seedling development due to their crucial roles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using Zinc-Molybdenum nano-priming in Jalapeño Pepper on germination and early growth. The results showed that applying nanopriming 124-10 mg L−1 of Zinc-Molybdenum promotes effectiveness on the imbibition and germination of jalapeño pepper seeds, resulting in heavier seeds with better initial absorption. This method not only improves germination rates and seedling vigor but also points towards more sustainable and efficient agriculture. Building on these findings, the Zinc-Molybdenum nanopriming method could potentially transform jalapeño pepper cultivation by enhancing seed quality and resilience. This could lead to more robust crop yields and reduce the need for chemical inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, thus lowering production costs and environ-mental impact.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a single stranded RNA virus which has resulted in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and has infected millions of people all over the world. SARS-CoV-2 has been mutating rapidly resulting in the emergence of multiple variants to escape the host immune system mainly by mutations in its receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein. This rapid evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 posed a great challenge regarding the efficacy and effectiveness of the current SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. The RBD and full-length spike of SARS-CoV-2 is the main target of the neutralizing antibodies. Many SARS-CoV-2 variants are considered to have the potential to escape from the host immune system. In this study, the RBD of Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Kappa and Omicron and the full-length spike of BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4/5, BQ.1.1 and XBB.1.5 Omicron variants were used as coating antigens in Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) to check the neutralization capability of COVID-19 convalescent sera from patients of first wave of infection occurring in Wuhan. Our results show that the currently circulating Omicron BQ.1.1, XBB.1.5 and previous Omicron BA.1, BA.2 and BA.4/5 do not show significant reduction in neutralization, while Omicron BA.3 and previous variants Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Kappa, and Omicron showed a significantly reduced neutralization when compared to the wild-type Wuhan strain. These results indicate patients recovering from natural infection of early original Wuhan strain may have the potential to resist infection of current circulating variants and the vaccines using the prototype antigen may still working for newly emerged variants.

This study investigates the impact of real-time emotional feedback on the quality of teamwork conducted over videoconferencing. We developed a framework that provides real-time feedback through a virtual mirror based on facial and voice emotion recognition. In an experiment with 28 teams (84 participants), teams collaborated over Zoom to set up a virtual Mars station using custom simulation software. Participants were divided into 14 experimental teams which were shown the virtual mirror, and 14 control teams without it. Team performance was measured by the improvement in the Mars simulation output quality. Our analysis using correlation, multilevel regression, and machine learning revealed that fewer interruptions but an increasing number over time correlated with higher performance. Higher vocal arousal and happiness also enhanced performance. We confirmed that female presence in teams boosts performance. SHAP values indicated that high variability in happiness, head movement, and positive facial valence—an “emotional rollercoaster”—positively predicted team performance. The experimental group outperformed the control group, suggesting that virtual mirroring improves virtual teamwork and that interrupting each other more, while speaking less, leads to better results.

During the 2008 financial crisis, central banks (such as the Fed) adopted quantitative easing (QE) policy to stimulate their economies and overcome severe economic and financial recessions. However, apart from stimulating the economy by issuing a substantial amount of currency to purchase long-term bonds and suppress interest rates, QE policy also contributed to a boom in the real estate and construction sectors. Therefore, this study employs Data Envelopment Analysis to measure the business performance (BP) of construction companies and explores the impact of QE policy on the BP of construction companies between 2004 and 2015 using ordinary least squares regression. Also, we examine the moderating role of debt ratio on the relationship. Focused on publicly listed construction companies in Taiwan, this research reveals three encouraging find-ings. Firstly, QE policy indeed enhanced the BP of Taiwanese construction companies. Secondly, the performance improvement of construction companies due to QE policy shows a time-diminishing trend, suggesting the importance of seizing the initial policy benefits of QE implementation. Lastly, construction companies with appropriate financial leverage may exhibit better BP. These findings can provide valuable insights for relevant government entities and de-cision-makers in the industry for policy and investment decisions.

This article addresses the urbanization model in valley bottom areas in the city of São Paulo, an-alyzed in its urban planning and socio-environmental aspects, and examines the hydrological impacts triggered by its implementation. It argues that sustainable occupation of urbanized hy-drographic basins should be based on environmental criteria in order to attain a sustainable water management regime that can ensure urban and environmental resilience. In the “Introduction,” the article emphasizes that urbanization in São Paulo has neglected the natural features of river basins, promoting the channeling of watercourses, which resulted in floods and inundations. “Theoretical Basics” brings in key concepts related to the environmental approach of drainage infrastructure with gray and green-blue systems. “Methods” details our qualitative research, bibliographical analyzes, referential case studies, and cartographical analyzes (geoprocessing), focusing on a case study in the Jaguaré creek basin. “Results” includes guidelines and recom-mendations for an urbanization model adjusted to valley bottom areas, applicable to new patterns of urban occupation or to the adjustment of existing patterns. “Discussion” explores the concept of “local sustainable self-development,” and “Conclusions” highlights the importance of an inte-grated, multisectoral, and sustainable planning, adjusted to the characteristics of river basins in valley bottom areas, promoting a socially responsible urban occupation, especially in the face of climate change.

Biochar has a carbon-based porous structure that is advantageous for adsorbing air pollutants. The pore structure of biochar ranges from several tens to hundreds of m²/g depending on the production temperature. We compared the pore characteristics of biochar with its NOx and SOx adsorption performances to evaluate its adsorbing potential. Biochar was produced from cypress biomass via slow pyrolysis in a fixed-bed reactor and CO2 partial gasification. Slow pyrolysis experiments at 500–700°C were conducted to produce biochar, followed by yield, proximate, elemental, and surface area analyses. CO2 partial gasification activated the biochar produced by slow pyrolysis at the same temperature, and similar analyses were performed. NO and SO2 adsorption experiments were conducted separately and together for biochar produced under each condition. Biochar produced at 600°C showed the highest specific surface area. CO2 partial gasification increased the surface area at each temperature, reaching 680.3 m²/g at 700°C. In single adsorption experiments, N2 carbonized biochar showed NO and SO2 adsorption efficiencies of 84–90% and 88.2–91.4%, respectively, with similar trends in simultaneous adsorption experiments. CO2 activated biochar exhibited higher adsorption efficiencies due to its increased surface area, with NO and SO2 adsorption at 89.8–93.9% and 92–98.9%, respectively. Biochar activated at 700°C simultaneously adsorbed approximately 99% NO and SO2. The NO adsorption efficiency increased with increasing surface area of the small pores, whereas the SO2 adsorption efficiency improved with the development of both small and large pores.

Invasive fungal disease causes high morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. Anti-fungal drug resistance and cytotoxicity highlight the need for effective antifungal therapeutics. In this study, the antifungal potential of the ethanolic extract of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew Leaf) leaves were evaluated against Candida albicans and C. auris. The antifungal activity was tested by the broth microdilution method and growth kinetic test. To further explore its antifungal action mode, spectrofluorophotometry, confocal microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed, Additionally, heterozygous knockout strains associated with resistance to oxidative stress were included in the study. We found that A. occidentale could inhibit the proliferation and growth of C. albicans at concentrations of 62.5 and 125 μg/mL. the doubling time was also drastically affected, going from 2.8 hours to 22.5 hours. Which was also observed in C. auris. The extract induced the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, while it did not show cy-totoxicity or hemolytic activity at the concentrations evaluated. Our work preliminarily elucidated the po-tential mechanisms of A. occidentale against C. albicans on a cellular level and might provide a promising op-tion for the design of a new treatment for invasive candidiasis

The research in neuroscience links alexithymia, the difficulty of identifying and describing feelings and emotions, with a left hemisphere preference and/or a right hemisphere deficit. To provide a neuropsychological support to this finding, we explored the relationship between alexithymia and the performance in a line bisection task, a standard method to evaluate spatial attention in relation with the functioning of the right hemisphere. 222 healthy participants completed a version of the TAS-20 scale, which measures alexithymia, and were asked to mark (bisect) the center of a 10 cm horizontal segment. The results document a significant rightward shift of the line center in borderline and manifest alexithymic participants, as compared to non-alexithymic individuals. Moreover, the higher the TAS-20 score the greater the rightward shift in the line bisection task. This result supports the right-hemisphere deficit hypothesis in alexithymia and suggests that visuospatial abnormalities may be an inner component of their profile.

The aim of this paper is to analyse commenting activity and sentiment (polarity and subjectivity) in interactions in response to videos by Spain’s most-subscribed YouTubers. An exploratory study was conducted on the content of the comments, their relationship with other social media actions, subjectivity and polarity, as well as from the perspective of the participatory culture. The results show that commenting is a potential option for interaction that is underused by the communities of users. Replies to comments are found to be limited to the user-user level, while YouTubers themselves and the moderators that YouTube allows them to designate rarely comment or reply on social networks. However, creators do monitor comments and provide feedback to a limited selection thereof in subsequent videos. There thus appears to be a strategic, exploitative use of comments, marked by a delayed response aimed at attracting audiences to new content.

In this paper, a method of charging lead acid battery with solar power by flyback converter is proposed. The basic system consists of a buffer circuit, auxiliary power circuit, control circuit, voltage feedback circuit and current feedback circuit. The system is capable of monitoring battery voltage and the current, charging the coupling inductor and automatic control of output duty cycle, overcharging and over-discharging protection. The experiment proves that the charging efficiency is improved by about 83% at full load.

The blood that remains in the placenta and umbilical cord after the birth of the infant is referred to as umbilical cord blood (UCB), which has the advantages of convenient source and less ethical controversy. MicroRNA (miRNA) is a class of non-coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression after translation and transcription. Alterations in miRNA expression involve changes in a range of gene expression pathways. An increasing body of research indicates that miRNAs are implicated in many human disorders and are involved in almost all biological medium processes. Due to their high stability in UCB, circulating miRNAs are considered promising biomarkers for diagnosis and disease prognosis. Herein, we conduct a comprehensive review to summarize the roles of diverse UCB miRNAs from different perspectives, including UCB miRNA as biomarker for developmental projections and disease diagnosis, the relationship between maternal gestational status and neonatal UCB miRNA expression, the therapeutic function of exosomal UCB miRNA, miRNA expression profiles in UCB cell lineages. Taken together, miRNAs in UCB are very promising biomarkers for indicating physiological states, disease states, drug responses, development states, or health conditions, which can help in diagnosing, classifying, and predicting diseases, prognosis, or providing personalized treatment plans for patients.

tRNA-derived fragments function as markers additionally to playing the role key of signalling molecules in a number of disorders.  It is known that the repertoire of these molecules differs greatly in different cell types and varies depending on the physiological condition. The aim of our research was to compare the pattern of tRF expression in the main blood cell types and to determine how the composition of these molecules changes during COVID-19-induced cytokine storm. Erythrocytes, monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils from control donors and patients with severe COVID-19 were obtained by fluorescence sorting. We extracted RNA from FACS sorted cells and performed NGS of short RNAs. The composition of tRNA-derived fragments was analysed applying a semi-custom bioinformatic pipeline. In this study, we assessed the length and type distribution of TRFs and reported the 150 most prevalent TRF sequences across all cell types. Additionally we demonstrate a significant (p<0.05, fold change>16) change in the pattern of tRFs in erythrocytes (21 downregulated, 12 upregulated), monocytes (53 downregulated, 38 upregulated) and lymphocytes (49 upregulated) in patients with severe COVID-19. Thus, different blood cell types exhibit a significant variety of TRFs and react to cytokine storm by dramatically changing their differential expression patterns. We suppose that the observed phenomenon occurs due to the regulation of nucleotide modifications and alterations in activity of various Rnases.

Abstract. This paper proposes a Second Order Terminal Sliding Mode (2TSM) approach to the trajectory tracking of Differential Drive Mobile Robot (DDMR). Within this cascaded control scheme, the 2TSM dynamic controller, at the inner most loop, tracks the robot’s velocity quantities; while a kinematic controller, at the outer most loop, regulates the robot’s positions. In this manner, chattering is greatly attenuated and finite time convergence is guaranteed by the second order TSM manifold which involves higher order derivatives of the state variables, resulting in inherently robust as well as fast and better tracking precision. The simulation results demonstrate the merit of the proposed control methods.

Background: in this paper, a new physical penetration technology for transdermal administration with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) characteristics - Fu’s cupping therapy (FCT) - was established and studied by in-vitro and in-vivo experiments; the penetration effect and mechanism of FCT physical penetration technology (FCT-PPT) was preliminarily discussed. Method: Indomethacin (IM) as a model drug，by transdermal in vitro tests the establishment of the high，medium and low reference were finished as the chemical permeation system；chemical penetration enhancers and iontophoresis as a reference，the percutaneous penetration effect of FCT for IM patch was evaluated with 7 species diffusion kinetics model and in vitro drug distribution；naproxen as an internal standard，using UPLC-MS/MS technology，the IM quantitative analysis method in vivo was established，and pharmacokinetic parameters (AUC0-t，AUC0-∞，AUMC0-t，AUMC0-∞, Cmax and MRT) as indicators were used evaluate to FCT penetration role in vivo；in the same time，the group used 3K factorial design to study joint synergistic penetration effect on FCT and chemical penetration enhancers (CPEs)；by SEM and TEM，the skin micro and ultrastructural changes of the stratum corneum (SC) surface were observed, to explore pay tank penetration mechanism. Results: In vitro and in-vivo skin permeation experiments revealed that both the total cumulative percutaneous amount and in-vivo percutaneous absorption amount (AUC and AUMC) of indomethacin that permeated SD mouse skin using FCT techniques were greater than the amount observed using CPE and iontophoresis: Firstly, in contrast to the control group, the indomethacin percutaneous rate (PR) of the FCT lower group (FCTL) was 35.52%, and the enhancement ratio (ER) at 9h was 1.76X, which was roughly equivalent to the penetration enhancing effect of the CPEs and iontophoresis; secondly, the indomethacin PR of the FCT middle (FCTM) group and the FCT high intensity group (FCTH) were respectively 47.36% and 54.58%, ER at 9h were separately 3.58X and 8.39X; thirdly, pharmacokinetic studies showed that in-vivo indomethacin percutaneous absorption of the FCTs was higher than that of the control group, that of the FCTM group was slightly higher than that of the CPEs group, and that of the FCTM group was significantly higher than that of the others. Meanwhile, the variance analysis indicated that the combination of the FCT penetration enhancement method and the CPE method had beneficial effects in penetration enhancing of the skin: the significance level of the CPE method was 0.0004, which was apparently lower than the 0.001, meaning the difference was markedly significant; the significance level of the FCT was under 0.0001, its difference markedly significant; and the significance level of factor interaction A×B was lower than 0.0001, indicating that its difference of the synergism was markedly significant. Moreover, SEM and TEM images showed that the SC surfaces of SD rats treaded with FCT-PPT was damaged, and hard to observe the complete surface structure with its SC pores growing bigger and its special “brick structure” becoming looser, indicating that it broke the barrier function of skin, which revealed potentially a major route of skin penetration. Conclusion: FCT, as percutaneous penetration new technologies, has penetration effects significantly, with Chinese characteristics and highly clinical value, worth promoting development.

In this work, we report the synthesis of a new thiosemicarbazone-based drug of N'-(di(pyridin-2-yl)methylene)-4-(thiazol-2-yl)piperazine-1-carbothiohydrazide (HL) featuring a thiazole spectator for the efficient coordination with Cu(II) to give [CuCl(L)]2 (1) and [Cu(NO3)(L)]2 (2). Both 1 and 2 exhibit dimeric structures ascribed to the presence of di-2-pyridylketone moieties that demonstrate dual functions of chelation and intermolecular bridging. HL, 1 and 2 are highly toxic against hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines Hep-G2, PLC/PRF/5, and HuH-7, with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values as low as 3.26 nmol/mL (HL), 2.18 nmol/mL (1), and 2.54 × 10−5 nmol/mL (2) for PLC/PRF/5. While the free ligand HL may elicit its anticancer effect via sequestration of bio-relevant metal ions (i.e. Fe3+ and Cu2+), 1 and 2 are also capable of generating cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Our preliminary pharmacokinetic studies revealed that oral administration (per os, PO) of HL has a significantly longer half-life t1/2 of 21.61 ± 9.4 h, nearly doubled as compared to that of the intravenous (i.v.) administration of 11.88 ± 1.66 h, certifying HL as an effective chemotherapeutic drug via PO administration.

The proposal that the genetic code was formed on the basis of protein synthesis directed by tRNA dimers is reviewed and updated. The tRNAs paired through the anticodon loops are an indication on the process. Dimers are considered mimics of the ribosomes – structures that hold tRNAs together and facilitate the transferase reaction, and of the translation process – anticodons are at the same time codons for each other. The primitive protein synthesis system gets stabilized when the product peptides are able to bind the producers therewith establishing a self-stimulating production cycle. The chronology of amino acid encoding starts with Glycine and Serine, indicating the metabolic support of the Glycine-Serine C1-assimilation pathway, which is also consistent with evidence on origins of bioenergetics mechanisms. Since it is not possible to reach for substrates simpler than C1 and compounds in the identified pathway are apt for generating the other central metabolic routes, it is considered that protein synthesis is the beginning and center of a succession of sink-effective mechanisms that drive the formation and evolution of the metabolic flow system. Plasticity and diversification of proteins construct the cellular system following the orientation given by the flow and implementing it. Nucleic acid monomers participate in bioenergetics and the polymers are conservative memory systems for the synthesis of proteins. Protoplasmic fission is the final sink-effective mechanism, part of cell reproduction, guaranteeing that proteins don’t accumulate to saturation, which would trigger inhibition.

Growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2) is a negative regulator of insulin signaling and positive regulator of angiogenesis. Its expression is increased in a mouse model of retinal neovascularization and in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between the rs9896052 polymorphism (A>C) upstream of GRB2 and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in patients with T2DM from Southern Brazil, taking into consideration self-reported skin color (white or non-white) and the known duration of diabetes (< 10 years or ≥ 10 years). Genotypes were determined using real-time PCR in 838 patients with T2DM (284 cases with PDR and 554 controls without DR). In the total study group and in the analysis stratified by skin color, the genotype and allele frequencies were similar between the cases and controls. However, among patients with less than 10 years of diabetes, the C allele was more frequent in cases than in controls (63.3% versus 51.8%, p = 0.032), and the CC genotype was independently associated with an increased risk of PDR (adjusted OR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.17-6.75). In conclusion, our findings support the hypothesis that the rs9896052 polymorphism near GRB2 is associated with PDR in Brazilian patients with T2DM.

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

Abiotic stress in plants is an increasingly common problem in agriculture, and thus, studies on plant treatments with specific certain compounds that may help to mitigate these effects have increased in recent years Melatonin (MET) application and its role in mitigating the negative effects of abiotic stress in plants have become important in the last few years. MET, a derivative of tryptophan, is an important plant-related response molecule involved in the growth, development, and reproduction of plants, and the induction of different stress factors. In addition, MET plays a protective role against different abiotic stresses such as salinity, high/low temperature, high light, waterlogging, nutrient deficiency and stress combination by regulating both the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems. Also, MET interacts with many signaling molecules, among these, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO), and participates in a wide variety of physiological reactions. It is well known that NO produces S-nitrosylation and NO2-Tyr of important antioxidant-related proteins, being this an important mechanism for maintaining the antioxidant capacity of the AsA/GSH cycle under nitro-oxidative conditions, being extensively reviewed here under different abiotic stress conditions. Lastly, in this review, we show the coordination between NO and MET as a long-range signaling molecule, regulating many responses in plants, including plant growth and abiotic stress tolerance. Despite all the knowledge acquired over the years, there is still more to know about how MET and NO act on tolerance to abiotic stresses.

The maximal prime gaps upper bound problem is one of the major mathematical problems to date. The objective of the current research is to develop a standard which will aid in the understanding of the distribution of prime numbers. This paper presents theoretical results which originated with a researchin the subject of the maximal prime gaps. the document presents the sharpest upper bound for the maximal prime gaps ever developed. The result becomes the Supremum bound on the maximal prime gaps and subsequently culminates with the conclusive proof of the Firoozbakht's Hypothesis No 30. Firoozbakht's Hypothesis implies quite a bold conjecture concerning the maximal prime gaps. In fact it imposes one of the strongest maximal prime gaps bounds ever conjectured. Its truth implies the truth of a greater number of known prime gaps conjectures, simultaneously, the Firoozbakht's Hypothesis disproves a known heuristic argument of Granville and Maier. This paper is dedicated to a fellow mathematician, the late Farideh Firoozbakht.