Low-intensity noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation (nGVS) can improve static and dynamic postural deficits in patients with bilateral vestibular loss (BVL). In this study, we aimed to explore the neurophysiological and neuroanatomical substrates underlying nGVS treatment effects in a rat model of BVL. Regional brain activation patterns and behavioral responses to repeated 30-min nGVS treatment in comparison to sham stimulation were investigated by serial whole-brain [18F]-FDG-PET measurements and quantitative locomotor assessments before and at 9 consecutive time points up to 60 days after chemical bilateral labyrinthectomy (BL). [18F]-FDG-PET revealed a broad nGVS-induced modulation on regional brain activation patterns encompassing biologically plausible brain networks in the brainstem, cerebellum, multisensory cortex and basal ganglia during the entire observation period post-BL. nGVS broadly reversed brain activity adaptions occurring in the natural course post-BL. Parallel behavioral locomotor assessment demonstrated a beneficial treatment effect of nGVS on sensory-ataxic gait alterations, particularly in the early stage of post-BL recovery. Stimulation-induced locomotor improvements were finally linked to nGVS brain activity responses in the brainstem, hemispheric motor and limbic networks. In conclusion, combined [18F]-FDG-PET and locomotor analysis discloses the potential neurophysiological and neuroanatomical substrates that mediate previously observed therapeutic nGVS effects on postural deficits in patients with BVL.

This paper details the comprehensive activities conducted in a laboratory setting to assess the Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of prefabricated building envelopes. Aimed at enhancing the structural evaluation of buildings, the focus of this research lies in employing nondestructive sensors for SHM with the objective to advance in the understanding and assessment of facade conditions. The paper outlines the methodologies employed, starting with a modal analysis to define the structural vibration's modal frequency. Subsequently, tests were defined and executed to validate building envelope compliance in case of stress typical of high-rise building. Throughout these tests, continuous monitoring of the façade was conducted using both conventional (accelerometers, extensimeter washers) and non-conventional sensors (Fiber Optic Sensing) The gathered data underwent thorough processing and analysis to provide an overall perspective on the structure's behavior during the stress test. The investigation aimed to identify whether specific physical phenomena correlate with distinct signals and to evaluate if continuous façade monitoring over the building's lifespan aids in preventing potential structural damage. Moreover, two modal analyses were conducted to compare final data and frequencies with earlier data, enabling the detection of any structural alterations. The results from compliance testing and structural analysis yielded noteworthy insights contributing to the evolving field of structural health monitoring, offering valuable findings that advance our ability to proactively manage and maintain the integrity of building structures.

The performance of the presurgical test (preSurg) for temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) was evaluated via video-electroencephalography (VEEG), electroencephalography (EEG), 99mTc-HmPAO single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) and 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a group of 112 men (37.0 ± 1.1 years) and 106 women (39.7 ± 1.1 years) operated on for TLE. The epileptic zone (EZ) was adequately identified to determine whether the patient reached an Engel I grade (EI) at least one year postop. Accuracy was evaluated by the coefficient α, ranging from 3 (when result = EZ) to 2 (result in the same hemisphere as the EZ), 1 (noninformative result) or 0 (EZ in the contralateral hemisphere). The simplicity of diagnosis was defined as the number of preSurg surgeries needed to identify the EZ. EI was obtained in 85.8% of patients even though 42.2% of patients had noninformative MRI results. For preSurg α was (mean ± SEM) = VEEG (2.83 ± 0.04) > MRI (2.14 ± 0.08) > EEG (1.87 ± 0.09) > SPECT (1.71 ± 0.09). The accuracy (combination of sensitivity and specificity) was calculated as follows: VEEG (0.797) > MRI (0.518) > EEG (0.446) > SPECT (0.360). The likelihood positive ratio was greater, and the likelihood negative ratio was lower for VEEG. The most relevant factor for the regression model was VEEG (3.106) > MRI (2.558) > EEG (1.905), and the factors were not significantly related to SPECT. EZs in EI patients with low simplicity were identified mainly by VEEG. A very good postoperative outcome can be obtained even in TLE patients with no lesions on MRI. The VEEG is the most reliable preSurg test and may be the only reliable test for patients with very low simplicity (i.e., difficult).single paragraph of about 200 words maximum. For research articles, abstracts should give a pertinent overview of the work. We strongly encourage authors to use the following style of structured abstracts, but without headings: (1) Background: Place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study; (2) Methods: briefly describe the main methods or treatments applied; (3) Results: summarize the article’s main findings; (4) Conclusions: indicate the main conclusions or interpretations. The abstract should be an objective representation of the article and it must not contain results that are not presented and substantiated in the main text and should not exaggerate the main conclusions.

In this paper, we study the asymptotic behavior of the sequential empirical process and the sequential empirical copula process, both constructed from residuals of multivariate stochastic volatility models. Applications for the detection of structural changes and specification tests of the distribution of innovations are discussed. It is also shown that if the stochastic volatility matrices are diagonal, which is the case if the univariate time series are estimated separately instead of being jointly estimated, then the empirical copula process behaves as if the innovations were observed; a remarkable property. As a by-product, one also obtains the asymptotic behavior of rank-based measures of dependence applied to residuals of these time series models.

: Tunnel instability and lining integrity are intimately tied to the creep properties of the surrounding rock. The acquisition of rock mass creep parameters is critical in ascertaining the appropriate timing for lining construction. Nevertheless, creep tests on rock specimens conducted in a controlled setting cannot be straightforwardly extrapolated to rock mass creep analysis. This study performs laboratory-based creep tests on mudstone samples and establishes the corresponding creep constitutive model. Integration of a Mohr-Coulomb element with the Burgers model in series serves to characterise the yield creep behaviour of the rock mass. Additionally, the research outlines a series of 100 orthogonal experiments utilising randomised creep parameters, and formulates a GA-BP neural network inversion model. Employing long-term deformation measurements from the crown and sidewalls of the project site, this study deduces the creep parameters of the mudstone in the investigated tunnel section and examines the prolonged deformation traits of the surrounding rock. Drawing on the deformation traits of the surrounding rock and the forces impacting the primary support and lining structures, this paper evaluates the earliest and latest viable lining casting periods and pinpoints an optimal timing interval for lining implementation. The methodologies employed herein can serve as a benchmark for analogous endeavors internationally.

Both auditory and vestibular primary afferent neurons can be activated by sound and vibration. This review relates differences between them to the different receptor/synaptic mechanisms of the two systems as shown by indicators of peripheral function – cochlear and vestibular compound action potentials (cCAPs and vCAPs) to click stimulation as recorded in animal studies. Sound and vibration sensitive type 1 receptors at the striola of the utricular macula are enveloped by the unique calyx afferent ending which has three modes of synaptic transmission. Glutamate is the transmitter for both cochlear and vestibular primary afferents, however blocking glutamate transmission has very little effect on vCAPs but greatly reduces cCAPs. We suggest that the ultrafast non-quantal synaptic mechanism called resistive coupling is the cause of the short latency vestibular afferent responses and related results – failure of transmitter blockade, masking, and temporal precision. This “ultrafast” non-quantal transmission is effectively electrical coupling dependent on the membrane potentials of the calyx and the type 1 receptor. The major clinical implication is that decreasing stimulus rise-time increases vCAP response, corresponding to the increased VEMP response in human subjects . Short rise-times are optimum in human clinical VEMP testing, whereas long rise-times are mandatory for audiometric threshold testing.

The present study evaluates the response to betahistine in patients who presented vestibular drops attacks in the context of Ménière's disease (MD) and the factors that can predict an unfavorable response to it. A total of 43 patients were analyzed, out of which 33 were diagnosed with MD. It is a descriptive, cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection. Data as regards age, accompanying symptoms, etiological diagnosis and response to MD treatment were collected. A statistical analysis was carried out, and we found that the disease evolution time and specific alterations in the vestibulospinal and oculomotor physical examination present an unfavorable response to betahistine, as opposed to the use of intratympanic gentamicin, with which symptomatic control is achieved in 100% of the cases.

To address the insufficient mechanical properties of calcined phosphogypsum, this research aims to investigate the utilization of basalt fiber and calcium carbonate whiskers as reinforcing agents. The study examines their impact on the flexural and compressive strength, toughness, water resistance, and tensile strength of calcined phosphogypsum. In the individual tests, basalt fibers with different lengths (3 mm, 6 mm, 9 mm, and 18 mm) were added at dosages of 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% respectively. The findings demonstrate that basalt fiber effectively enhances the flexural and compressive strength, toughness, and tensile strength of calcined phosphogypsum, albeit potentially compromising water resistance. Among the various fiber lengths, the 6 mm fibers exhibit the most advantageous influence on the performance of calcined phosphogypsum. A subsequent test was conducted to investigate the impact of cross-scale fibers on the properties of calcined phosphogypsum by mixing 6 mm basalt fibers and calcium carbonate whiskers. The results illustrate that calcium carbonate whisker refines the pores, thereby improving the flexural strength and toughness of calcined phosphogypsum. Furthermore, it compensates for the water resistance limitations associated with the sole utilization of basalt fiber while further augmenting the tensile strength and strain capacity. However, it should be noted that increasing the dosage of both calcium carbonate whiskers and basalt fibers concurrently leads to increased porosity of phosphogypsum and reduced compressive strength.

Herpesvirus is a prevalent pathogen that primarily infects human epithelial cells and has the ability to reside in neurons. In the field of otolaryngology, herpesvirus infection primarily leads to hearing loss and vestibular neuritis, and is considered the primary hypothesis regarding the pathogenesis of vestibular neuritis. In this review, we provide a summary of the effects of herpes virus on cellular processes in both host cells and immune cells, with a focus on HSV-1 as illus-trative examples.

Acute vertigo and dizziness are frequent presenting symptoms in patients on the emergency department. With a broad differential diagnosis and symptoms/signs often subtle and transient, the diagnostic approach to the dizzy patient remains challenging. Previous work emphasized the value of combining structured history-taking and a targeted examination focusing on subtle oculomotor signs. Here I review different bedside algorithms proposed for the acutely dizzy patient. Comparing area-under-the-curve ROC-characteristics and sensitivity/specificity, highest diagnostic accuracy was observed for algorithms focusing on subtle oculomotor signs. Both the HINTS+ bedside-exam and the STANDING algorithm have demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy for identifying strokes than early (<24-48h after symptom-onset) MRI-DWI. Importantly, HINTS and STANDING require moderate training to allow reliable application. Thus, for physicians lacking dedicated training, other approaches are needed. Various scores that rely on vascular risk-factors, clinical symptoms and focal neurologic findings have been proposed (e.g., ABCD2-score, PCI-score, TriAGe+-score). While these scores are more readily applicable for frontline providers, they provide intermediate diagnostic accuracy at best and often lack external validation, thus are an insufficient substitute for algorithms assessing subtle oculomotor findings. Providing dedicated training in HINTS+ or STANDING techniques will be key to improve the diagnostic accuracy and to avoid unnecessary brain imaging.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate if tests used to assess core stability could be used to determine success in physiological tests applied to assess dynamic balance and agility for a young active population. Methods: Pearson's r correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between the core stability tests and the dynamic balance and agility tests. Evaluation of the tests was established using Cronbach's coefficient of variance as part of intra-rater reliability tests. An analysis of 18 active college aged students was conducted (males: n= 13, females: n= 5). The mean ± SD age for males was 19.2 years ± 3.22 years and for females was 19.4 years ± 1.14 years. Conclusion: The results indicate that there is no significant relationship between tests that assess core stability and tests conducted to assess dynamic balance in active young adults. With the exception of the abdominal flexion test, no significant relationship exists between the remaining core stability tests and agility T-Test. Core stability is not a determinant of balance and agility.

Current consensus diagnostic criteria for vestibular migraine (VM) describes this as an episodic disorder. However, a minority of patients report prolonged (>72h duration) or even persistent VM symptoms, prompting whether a chronic variant of vestibular migraine (CVM) should be introduced to the current classification and how best to define it. Here we summarize current evidence of such a potential chronic variant of VM and critically review previously published proposed definitions for CVM. Potential approaches to establish a diagnostic framework for CVM include a) following the distinction between episodic and chronic migraine headaches; namely, frequent and/or prolonged episodes of VM (but not persistent vertigo or dizziness) in the context of chronic migraine headaches or b) daily dizzy spells over more than 6 months that responded well to prophylactic anti-migraine therapy. A key challenge when defining diagnostic criteria for CVM is how to distinguish it from other chronic vestibular syndromes such as motion sickness, persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD), and mal-de-débarquement syndrome. Indeed, more than 50% of patients with PPPD and up to 46% with mal-de-débarquement syndrome fulfill diagnostic criteria for episodic migraine headaches, suggesting these disorders may all lie along a spectrum. We propose that when VM becomes persistent, it is best classified as PPPD but that VM and PPPD are not mutually exclusive, such that patients with PPPD need not have features of VM and the triggering event for persistent dizziness may be independent of migraine.

There is a need to find methods to intensify the anaerobic digestion process. One possibility is the use of pre-treatment techniques. Many laboratory tests confirm their effectiveness, but in most cases, there is no verification work carried out on industrial plants. The aim of the research carried out under laboratory conditions and on a large scale was to determine the technological and energy efficiency of the use of hydrodynamic cavitation in the pre-treatment of a waste mixture from dairy farms. It has been shown that hydrodynamic cavitation significantly increases the concentration of organic compounds in the dissolved phase. In the most effective variants, the increase in the content of these indicators was over 90% for both COD and TOC. The degree of solubilisation achieved was 49±2.6% for COD and almost 52±4.4% for TOC. Under laboratory conditions, the highest effects of anaerobic digestion were achieved after 10 minutes of pre-treatment. The amount of biogas was on average 367±18 mL/gCOD and the amount of methane 233±13 mL/gCOD. Further large-scale optimisation trials showed that after 8 minutes of hydrodynamic cavitation, the biogas yield was 327±8 L/kgCOD with a CH4 content of 62.9±1.9%. With this variant, the net energy yield was 66.4±2.6 kWh/day, a value that was 13.9% higher than the original variant with 10 minutes of disintegration and 3.1% higher than the variant without pre-treatment.

New antimicrobial approaches are essential to counter antimicrobial resistance. The drug development pipeline is exhausted with emergence of resistance resulting in unsuccessful trials. The lack of an effective drug developed from the conventional drug portfolio has mandated the introspection into the list of potentially effective unconventional alternate antimicrobial molecules. Alternate therapies, that are clinically explicable forms include monoclonal antibodies, antimicrobial peptides, aptamers and phages. Clinical diagnostics optimizes the drug delivery. In the era of diagnostic-based applications, it is logical to draw diagnostic based treatment for infectious diseases. Selection criteria of alternate therapeutics in infectious disease include detection, monitoring of response and resistance mechanism identification. Integrating these diagnostic applications is disruptive to the traditional therapeutic development. The challenges and mitigation methods need to be noted. Applying the goals of clinical pharmacokinetics that include enhancing efficacy and decreasing toxicity of drug therapy this review analyses the strong correlation of alternate antimicrobial therapeutics in infectious diseases. The relationship between drug concentration and the resulting effect defined by the pharmacodynamic parameters are also analyzed. This review analyzes the perspectives of aligning diagnostic initiatives into the use of alternate therapeutics with a particular focus on companion diagnostic applications in infectious diseases.

Background. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease involving motor neuron degeneration. The few drugs approved for treatment have at most a marginal benefit, and death usually occurs 2-5 years after diagnosis. Methods. A thorough manual examination of the relevant literature, covering over 35,000 papers. Results. Two major phenomena that are generally not known to clinicians were found. First, insulin signaling is impaired in ALS even in patients not diagnosed with diabetes (DB). Almost all studies that have explicitly tested insulin function in non-DB ALS patients using glucose tolerance tests (18 out of 20, 1964-2022, different groups) have found it to be impaired. Second, there is strong evidence for excessive insulin-independent glucose uptake (IIGU) in ALS. In addition, (i) early/late diabetes are associated with increased/decreased risk, respectively; (ii) insulin-based diabetes drugs are protective in ALS in large retrospective human studies; and (iii) strong animal and human evidence shows that insulin opposes all of the major pathological processes in ALS. Conclusion. Most ALS patients have insulin impairment, yet this is commonly not diagnosed, likely because excessive IIGU normalizes glucose levels. The impairment promotes disease progression. Late diabetes is associated with decreased risk because high glucose levels indicate non-excessive IIGU, and because diabetes drugs are protective. Insulin-based treatment (e.g., GLP1 agonists, insulin) is beneficial and can be disease-modifying in ALS and in frontotemporal dementia variants comorbid with ALS. ALS patients should be routinely tested for insulin function and treated if test results are positive.

The main foundations of the standard $\Lambda $CDM model of cosmology are that: 1) The redshifts of the galaxies are due to the expansion of the Universe plus peculiar motions; 2) The cosmic microwave background radiation and its anisotropies derive from the high energy primordial Universe when matter and radiation became decoupled; 3) The abundance pattern of the light elements is explained in terms of primordial nucleosynthesis; and 4) The formation and evolution of galaxies can be explained only in terms of gravitation within a inflation+dark matter+dark energy scenario. Numerous tests have been carried out on these ideas and, although the standard model works pretty well in fitting many observations, there are also many data that present apparent caveats to be understood with it. In this paper, I offer a review of these tests and problems, as well as some examples of alternative models.

Augmented and Virtual Reality have been experiencing a rapidly growth in recent years, but there is not still a deep knowledge on their capabilities and where they could be explored. In that sense, this paper presents a study on the accuracy and repeatability of the Microsoft's HoloLens 2 (Augmented Reality device) and HTC Vive (Virtual Reality device) using an OptiTrack system as ground truth. For the HoloLens 2, the method used was hand tracking, while in HTC Vive, the object tracked was the system's hand controller. A series of tests in different scenarios and situations were performed to explore what could influence the measures. The HTC Vive obtained results in the millimetre scale, while the HoloLens 2 revealed not so accurate measures (around 2 centimetres). Although the difference can seem to be considerable, the fact that HoloLens 2 was tracking the user's hand and not an inherit controller made a huge impact. The results were considered a significant step for the on going project of developing a human-robot interface to program by demonstration an industrial robot using Extended Reality, which shows great potential to succeed based on this data.

An extensive review of literature simulations of polymer melts is given, considering results that test aspects of the Rouse model in the melt. We focus on the mean-square amplitudes < (X_p(0))^{2} > and time correlation functions < X_p(0) X_p(t) > of the Rouse modes $X_p(t)$. Contrary to the Rouse model: (i) Mean-square Rouse mode amplitudes < (X_p(0))^2> do not scale as sin^{-2}(p \pi/2N), N being the number of beads in the polymer. For small p (say, p <= 3) < (X_p(0))^2> scales with p as p^{-2}$; for larger p it scales as p^{-3}. (ii) Rouse mode time correlation functions < X_p(t) X_p(0) > do not decay with time as exponentials; they instead decay as stretched exponentials exp(-a t^b)$. b depends on p, typically with a minimum near N/2 or N/4. (iii) Polymer bead displacements are not described by independent Gaussian random processes. (iv) For p not equal to q, < X_p(t) X_{q}(0) > is sometimes non-zero. (v) The response of a polymer coil to a shear flow is a rotation, not the affine deformation predicted by Rouse. Simulations thus conclusively demonstrate that the Rouse model is invalid in polymer melts. We also briefly consider the Kirkwood-Riseman polymer model.

An ongoing EU Horizon 2020 Project called BionicVEST is investigating the effect of constant electrical stimulation (ES) of the inferior vestibular nerve in patients with bilateral vestibular dysfunction (BVD)[1]. The evidence is that constant ES results in improved postural stability and gait performance and so the question of central importance is how could constant ES of mainly saccular afferents in these BVD patients cause this improved performance? We suggest that the constant ES is substituting for the absent saccular neural input to the vestibular nuclei and the cerebellum in these BVD patients and indirectly via these structures to other structures which have been of great recent interest in motor control. One target area, the anterior midline cerebellum (the uvula) has recently been targeted as a location for deep brain stimulation in human patients to improve postural stability and gait. There are projections from midline cerebellum to basal ganglia including the striatum, structures involved in the initiation of gait. It may be that the effect of this activation of peripheral saccular afferent neurons is analogous to the effect of deep brain stimulation (DBS) by electrodes in basal ganglia acting to help alleviate the symptoms of patients with Parkinson's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) detection acting as an essential role in global health care due to misdiagnosis and sharing many clinical sets with other types of dementia, and costly monitoring the progression of the disease over time by magnetic reasoning imaging (MRI) with consideration of human error in manual reading. This paper goal a comparative study on the performance of data mining techniques on two datasets of Clinical and Neuroimaging Tests with AD. Our proposed model in the first stage, Apply clinical medical dataset to a composite hybrid feature selection (CHFS), for extract new features to select the best features due to eliminating obscures features, In parallel with Apply a novel hybrid feature extraction of three batch edge detection algorithm and texture from MRI images dataset and optimized with fuzzy 64-bin histogram. In the second stage, we applied a clinical dataset to a stacked hybrid classification(SHC) model to combine Jrip and random forest classifiers with six model evaluations as meta-classifier individually to improve the prediction of clinical diagnosis. At the same stage of improving the classification accuracy of neuroimaging (MRI) dataset images by applying a convolution neural network (CNN) in comparison with traditional classifiers, running on extracted features from images. The authors have collected the clinical dataset of 426 subjects with (1229 potential patient sample) from oasis.org and (MRI) dataset from a benchmark kaggle.com with a total of around ~5000 images each segregated into the severity of Alzheimer's. The datasets evaluated using an explorer set of weka data mining software for the analysis purpose. The experimental show that the proposed model of ‏(CHFS) feature extraction ‏ lead to effectively reduced the false-negative rate with a relatively high overall accuracy with a stack hybrid classification of support vector machine (SVM) as meta-classifier of 96.50% compared to 68.83% of the previous result on a clinical dataset, Besides a compared model of CNN classification on MRI images dataset of 80.21%. The results showed the superiority of our CHFS model in predicting Alzheimer's disease more accurately with the clinical medical dataset in early-stage compared with the neuroimaging (MRI) dataset. The results of the proposed model were able to predict with accurately classify Alzheimer's clinical samples at a low cost in comparison with the MRI-CNN images model at the early stage and get a good indicator for high classification rate for MRI images when applying our proposed model of SHC.

There is an important complementarity between experimental methods for the study of high-temperature viscoelasticity in the time and frequency domains, that has not always been fully exploited. Here we show that parallel processing of forced-oscillation data and microcreep records, involving consistent use of either Andrade or extended Burgers creep-function models, yields a robust composite modulus-dissipation dataset spanning a broader range of periods than either technique alone. In fitting this dataset, the alternative Andrade and extended Burgers models differ in their partitioning of strain between the anelastic and viscous contributions. The extended Burgers model is preferred because it involves a finite range of anelastic relaxation times, and accordingly a well-defined anelastic relaxation strength. The new strategy offers the prospect of better constraining the transition between transient and steady-state creep, or equivalently, between anelastic and viscous behaviour.

The paper presents construction, laboratory tests as well as the first field application of a new fiber-optic rotational seismograph. The system based on fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) with determined Angle Random Walk of the order of 10-8 rad/Sqrt(s) and a few rad/s maximum detectable amplitude of rotation in the frequency range from DC to 328.12 Hz. It has been designed for rotational seismology area of interest. This work also presents exemplary relevant measurements which were conducted using a set of two devices installed in the geophysical observatory in Książ, Poland.

In this review, we present the latest exclusion limits obtained with astroparticles for Lorentz Invariance Violation (LIV) in the photon sector. We discuss the techniques known as energy-dependent time delay or time lag, subluminal pair production threshold shift, superluminal photon decays and superluminal photon splitting. Perspectives for future results in LIV with the next generation of experiments are also addressed.

The up-to-date challenge towards clean road transport are non-exhaust emissions. Important advances regarding measurement systems, including well defined characterisation techniques, as well as regulation, will happen in the next few years. In this work we present detailed results of particle emissions from a test bed for wheel suspension and brakes, consisting of aerosol (size distribution, particle number (PN) and mass (PM)) and electron microscopy measurements (EM) under different load conditions. Standard tyres and brakes from series production were tested with a high-load driving cycle while particle measurements were conducted by gravimetric measurements and with a TSI SMPS, a TSI APS and a GRIMM OPS. Furthermore, samples were analyzed by electron microscopy. A bimodal particle size distribution (PSD) was obtained with the SMPS, with peaks at 20nm and around 400nm. EM analysis of &gt;1400 single particles from the electrostatic sampler matches the PSD results. EM analysis also showed ultrafine particles, mainly from O, Fe, Si, Ba, Mg and S and also fractal particles with high C fractions. Our results suggest, in agreement with previously published literature, that particulate emissions are related to brake disc temperature and occur in significant amounts above a threshold temperature.

The healthy function of the vestibular system (VS) is of vital importance for individuals to carry out their daily activities independently and safely. This study carries out Tsallis entropy (TE)-based analysis on insole force sensor data in order to extract features to differentiate between healthy and VS-diseased individuals. Using a specifically developed algorithm, we detrend the acquired data to examine the fluctuation around the trend curve in order to consider the individual’s walking habit and thus increase the accuracy in diagnosis. It is observed that the TE-value increases for diseased people as an indicator of the problem of maintaining balance. As one of the main contributions of this study, in contrast to studies in the literature that focus on gait dynamics requiring extensive walking time, we directly process the instantaneous pressure values, enabling to reduce the data acquisition period significantly. The extracted feature set is then inputted into fundamental classification algorithms, with the Support-Vector-Machine (SVM) demonstrating the highest performance, achieving an average accuracy of 95%. This study constitutes a significant step of a large project aiming to identify specific VS disease together with its stage. The performance achieved in this study provides a strong motivation to further explore this topic.

The energy E takes the place of the gravitational mass m_G to produce gravity [1]. We wonder whether the inertial mass m_i in the inertial force is also replaced by E. The experiments to measure the inertial force and weight of a carrier are presented. Now we can test the principle of equivalence and study foundations of physics in condensed matter.

Statistical inferences is regarded as the general criteria for statistical conclusion and drawing generalizations. However, most of the inferential statistical tools are based on strong assumptions which create a strict limitations on their use and application. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is one of such statistics. In this article, eight (8) new ANOVA-like methodologies were proposed, in alternative to one-way ANOVA, based on the assumptions of statistical mirroring. Methods validation in comparison with one-way ANOVA was designed to assess the suitability and statistical power of the new proposals as an alternative methods, using different sets of logically generated multivariate datasets with different problems and statistical complications. The results of comparisons validate that the eight (8) proposed ANOVA-like methodologies were suitable alternatives to ANOVA, in the sense that they require no normality assumption to be meet, used different ways to compare the data with different statistical elements rather than depending on only variance, efficient with negative values, and results interpretation is easier.

The Medi-test system we developed was motivated by the large number of resources available for the medical domain, as well as the number of tests needed in this field (during and after the medical school) for evaluation, promotion, certification, etc. Generating questions to support learning and user interactivity has been an interesting and dynamic topic in NLP since the availability of e-book curricula and e-learning platforms. Current e-learning platforms offer increased support for student evaluation, with an emphasis in exploiting automation in both test generation and evaluation. In this context, our system is able to evaluate a student’s academic performance for the medical domain. Using as input medical reference texts and supported by a specially designed medical ontology, Medi-test generates different types of questionnaires for Romanian language. The evaluation includes 4 types of questions (multiple-choice, fill in the blanks, true/false and match), can have customizable length and difficulty and can be automatically graded. A recent extension of our system also allows for the generation of tests which include images. We evaluated our system with a local testing team, but also with a set of medicine students, and user satisfaction questionnaires showed that the system can be used to enhance learning.

Postoperative headaches (POH) following retrosigmoid microsurgery for ves-tibular schwannoma (VS) can significantly diminish patients' perceived health benefits (PHB). A survey of 101 VS patients, utilizing the Rostock Headache Compendium, Glasgow Benefit Inventory, Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TI-PI-G), and German pain processing questionnaire (FESV), revealed that almost half experienced POH, leading to a markedly reduced overall PHB compared to those without POH. This decrease in PHB was linked to higher levels of pain-related helplessness, depression, anxiety, and anger. Positive associations were found between PHB and action-planning competence, cognitive restruc-turing, and experience of competence. Personality traits, particularly low emo-tional stability and openness, were associated with pain-related psychological impairment. Interestingly, hearing loss and facial paresis did not impact PHB. The study underscores the influence of pain-related mental interference and coping strategies on PHB in long-term POH patients, suggesting a role for personality traits in their pain management. The findings advocate for short-term psychological interventions, emphasizing adaptive coping mecha-nisms like cognitive restructuring, to enhance PHB in VS patients post-microsurgery.

Ground penetrating radar (georadar, GPR), widely used in geology, archeology and road construction, is an efficient tool for searching and studying subsurface objects and structures. When planning GPR missions, it is necessary to predict the resolution of the device and the achievable probing depth. The article discusses the methods and results of assessing these characteristics of the Loza-V and Loza-N radars obtained in the course of archaeological and geographical expedition works.

Background and objectives: The fact that the results of troponin and Nt-proBNP interfere from biotin caused some commercial firms to update their measurement methods. In particular, the clinical incompatibility of cardiac test results may affect the risk of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study is to investigate the interference effects of 7 different contrast agents on cardiac markers (Troponin-I, Nt-proBNP, Mass CK-MB, CK, AST, LDH) and coagulation tests (PT, APTT). Materials and Methods: Seven different contrast medias were added into control materials by using interference protocol. Concentration of PT, APTT, CK, AST, LDH, Mass CK-MB, Troponin-I, Nt-proBNP were measured by Sysmex CS-2100, Abbott c16000, Siemens Centaur XP and AFİAS-6 analyzer. The amount of deviations from target values were calculated. Results: 7 different contrast medias caused negative interference in troponin levels between 57.43% and 62.87%. It was found that different contrast medias produced false negativity in the Nt-proBNP test ranging from 6.11% to 96.01%. Enzymes and coagulation tests have been less affected. Conclusions: Different contrast medias may cause false negative cTnI and Nt-proBNP. Therefore, the contrast medias which causes the least interference should be preferred. The results of samples taken in the first hour of contrast imaging should be interpreted with care.

Various designs of spherical robots using barycenter offset mechanisms were previously reported. This kind of robots offers advantages such as turning in placeor moving in any direction at any time. Yet, the approaches resulting in a balanced robot, which could roll with reduced energy costs once accelerated, are scarce. We introduce anovel robot of this type. The feasibility of the approach is verified on a cylindrical robot. This paper presents an open-source, remotely controlled, robotic cylinder. The robot uses a specifically designed mechanism to displace a mass in its center, which causes the cylinder to roll forwards or backwards. The movement characteristics of the cylinder, as well as the mathematical and physical limitations of the mechanism were studied. An intuitive user interface allows the robot to be controlled through WiFi. This robot was manufactured only with readily available and inexpensive materials, which would make it a suitable platform for education, typically in the fields of physics and engineering.

A numerical mechanism connecting ice algal ecodynamics with the buildup of organic macromolecules is tested within modeled pan-Arctic brine channels. The simulations take place offline in a reduced representation of sea ice geochemistry. Physical driver quantities derive from the global sea ice code CICE, including snow cover, thickness and internal temperature. The framework is averaged over ten boreal biogeographic zones. Computed nutrient-light-salt limited algal growth supports grazing, mortality and carbon flow. Vertical transport is diffusive but responds to pore structure. Simulated bottom layer chlorophyll maxima are reasonable, though delayed by about a month relative to observations due to uncertainties in snow variability. Upper level biota arise intermittently during flooding events. Macromolecular concentrations are tracked as proxy proteins, polysaccharides, lipids and refractory humics. The fresh biopolymers undergo succession and removal by bacteria. Baseline organics enter solely through cell disruption, so that the internal carbon content is initially biased low. By including exudation, agreement with dissolved organic or individual biopolymer data is achieved given strong release coupled to light intensity. Detrital carbon then reaches hundreds of micromolar, sufficient to support structural changes to the ice matrix.

Background: First-line biological diagnosis of malaria in Mali is based on the use of rapid diagnostic tests (RDT), which detect in the blood the Histidin Rich Protein 2 antigen, specific to Plasmodium falciparum. Our study, based on a real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) gold-standard diagnosis, aims to evaluate the performance of RDTs used in Mali and to describe the distribution of Plasmodium species in each administrative regions of Mali; Methods: We collected RDT cassettes in 47 sites of the nine regions of Mali. We randomly selected 150 malaria-negative and up to 30 malaria-positive RDTs from each regions. DNA was extracted from the RDTs’ nitrocellulose strip and then assayed with a pan-Plasmodium qPCR. Positive samples were then analyzed with qPCRs specific for P. falciparum, P. malariae, P. vivax, and P. ovale; Results: Of the 1,389 tested by qPCR RDTs, 258 (18.6%) were positive for Plasmodium spp. P.falciparum was the most predominant (97.3%). However, the prevalence of P.vivax reach 21.1% in the Ménaka region in the north; Conclusion: Overall, RDT diagnostic indices are adequate for the biological diagnosis of malaria in Mali. Our finding support the adjustment of RDTs to the local epidemiology.

In only a few months after initial discovery in Wuhan, China, SARS-CoV-2 and the associated COVID-19 disease has become a global pandemic causing significant mortality and morbidity. In the absence of vaccines and effective therapeutics, reliable serological testing can be a key element of public health policy to control further spread of the disease and gradually ease quarantine measures. However, prior to launch of large-scale seroprevalence studies to assess herd immunity, it is critical to understand the limits and potential of current SARS-CoV-2 serological tests on the market. In this study, we provide an overview of serological testing and conduct a systematic review of independent evaluations of SARS-CoV-2 serological tests performance. Our findings show significant variability in the accuracy of marketed tests and highlight several lab-based and point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests with high performance level in detecting SRAS-CoV-2 specific antibodies. The findings of this review highlight the need for ongoing independent evaluations of commercialized COVID-19 diagnostic tests.

In social & health sciences, many statistical procedures and estimation techniques rely on the underlying distributional assumption of normality of the data. Non-normality may lead to incorrect statistical inferences. This study evaluates the performance of selected normality tests on the stringency framework for the skewed alternative space. Stringency concept allows us to rank the tests uniquely. Bonett & Seier test (T_w) turns out to be the best statistics for slightly skewed alternatives and the Anderson-Darling (AD), Chen-Shapiro (CS), Shapiro-Wilk (W) and Bispo, Marques, & Pestana, (BCMR) statistics are the best choices for moderately skewed alternative distributions. Maximum loss of Jarque-Bera (JB) and its robust form (RJB), in terms of deviations from the power envelope, is greater than 50% even for large sample sizes which makes them less attractive in testing the hypothesis of normality against the moderately skewed alternatives. On balance, all selected normality tests except T_w and COIN performed exceptionally well against the highly skewed alternative space.

Verification of inclusivity of molecular detection methods gives indications on the reliability of viral infections diagnosis because of the tendency of viral pathogens to undergo sequence variation. This study was aimed to select inclusive probe based reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assays for the diagnosis of the most widespread and detrimental viruses infecting honeybees, namely the acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), the black queen cell virus (BQCV), the chronic paralysis bee virus (CBPV), the deformed wing virus variants A (DWVA) and B (DWVB), and the sacbrood virus (SBV). Therefore, detection methods previously described were re-evaluated in silico for specificity and inclusivity. Based on this evaluation, selected methods were modified or new ones were designed and tested in duplex RT-qPCR reactions. The limits of detection (LODs), effect of multiplexing on sensitivity and viral RNA quantification potential in bees and hive debris were assessed. This study made available diagnostic assays able to detect an increased number of virus variants compared to previously described tests and two viral pathogens in a single PCR reaction.

Abstract: Development of the fast neutron radiography with higher penetration capability in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques is rapidly. The detection efficiency and the imaging spatial resolution are the main problem of the radiography detector for many fast neutron imaging systems. In this paper, a detector composed of pixelated EJ200 scintillator array，an 16 × 16 silicon-photomultipliers (SiPM) array, and a capacitive multiplexing network readout electronics is designed. Using Monte-Carlo simulations，the main parameters of the detector was optimization. Then the detector prototype was fabricated and tested at a 14 MeV D-T neutron source. The preliminary test results showed that the prototype has spatial resolution of 1.26 mm. Using pixelated scintillator structure，the conflict between spatial resolution and detect efficiency could improved. Moreover, SiPMs offer a flexibility for the expansion of application field of the imaging system due to their excellent photon detection performance, relatively low price and joint possibility for large area.

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has spread around the world and killed around 6.9 million people. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential for preventing and controlling the disease, reducing transmission and consequently saving lives. RT-PCR is the gold standard test used to detect the disease. However, the test is expensive and the result is time-consuming, which makes mass testing difficult, especially in countries with limited resources. In addition, the test has high analytical specificity and low diagnostic sensitivity, which leads to false-negative results. Several studies in the literature report the presence of hematological and biochemical alterations in infected patients and use these alterations with machine learning algorithms to help diagnose the disease. Therefore, this article presents the results obtained by different neural network architectures based on Adaptive Resonance Theory (ART) for the diagnosis of COVID-19. The study was conducted in two distinct stages: the first consisted of selecting the best ART network among several, using three open-access datasets and comparing the results with the literature. In the second stage, the chosen model was tested on a dataset containing patients from various hospitals in four countries. In addition, the model was subjected to external validation, including data from a country not present during the training and adjustment of the model, in order to validate the robustness and generalization capacity of the model. The results obtained by the ART networks in this study are promising, outperforming not only classical models, but also the deep learning models often used in the literature. Validation on data from different countries strengthens the model’s reliability and effectiveness.

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) is an optical technique used to measure surface displacements and strains in materials and structures. This technique has demonstrated significant utility in structural examination and monitoring. This manuscript offers a comprehensive review of contemporary research and applications that have leveraged the DIC technique in laboratory-based structural tests. The reviewed works encompass a broad spectrum of structural components, such as concrete beams, columns, pillars, masonry walls, infills, composite materials, structural joints, steel beams, slabs, and other structural elements. These investigations have underscored the efficacy of DIC as a metrological instrument for precise quantification of surface deformation and strain in these structural components. Moreover, the constraints of the DIC technique have been highlighted, especially in scenarios involving extensive or complex test configurations. Notwithstanding these constraints, the DIC methodology has validated its effectiveness as a strain measurement instrument, offering numerous benefits such as non-invasive operation, full-field measurement capability, high precision, real-time surveillance, and compatibility with integration into other measurement instruments and methodologies.

Optical characterization and thermal aging tests are performed on a sputter-deposited coating, consisting of SiO₂/Cr₂O₃/Cr/Cr₂O₃ layers, designed and developed as a selective solar absorber to be used for unconcentrated solar thermal applications. Both measurements are performed by using a home-made apparatus, which mimics a flat plate collector under high vacuum. A Performance Criterion (PC_η(T)), based on absorber efficiency is proposed, and a forecast of service lifetime is obtained. As a result of the thermal aging tests, the selective solar absorber under study appears to be highly efficient at mid temperatures (up to 573 K) and thermally stable at temperatures (up to 690 K).

Brucellosis is one of the most common etiologies of laboratory-acquired infections worldwide, and handling of living brucellae should be performed in a Class II biological safety cabinet. The low infecting dose, multiple portals of entry to the body, the great variety of potentially contaminated specimens, and the unspecific clinical manifestations of human infections facilitate the unintentional transmission of brucellae to laboratory personnel. Work accidents such as spillage of culture media cause only a small minority of exposures, whereas >80% of events result from unfamiliarity with the phenotypic features of the genus, misidentification of isolates, and unsafe laboratory practices such as aerosolization of bacteria and working on an open bench without protective goggles or gloves. Although the bacteriological diagnosis of brucellae by traditional methods is simple, the Gram stain and the biochemical profile of the organism, as determined by commercial kits, can be misleading, resulting in inadvertent exposure and contagion. The use of novel identification technologies is not hazard-free. The MALDI-TOF technology requires an initial bacterial inactivation step, while the instruments’ reference database may misidentify Brucella as belonging to other Gram-negative species. The rapid identification by the FISH method mistakes brucellar isolates for members of the closely related Ochrobactrum genus.

An experimental series of shearing tests with water infiltration were performed on compacted unsaturated soil to simulate the behavior of shallow slope failures. Soil samples were compacted at moisture contents from dry to wet of optimum moisture content with the degree of saturation varying from 24.0% to 59.5% while maintaining the degree of compaction at 80%. Two series of shearing with infiltration tests were performed in this study. In Series-I, just before the start of shearing, matric suction was decreased by increasing pore water pressure to start water infiltration i.e. shearing is carried simultaneously with water infiltration. In Series-II, the soil was first sheared with drained pore air and undrained pore water to pre-defined value of deviatoric stress, after which matric suction was decreased by increasing pore water pressure to start water infiltration and shearing is performed by keeping deviatoric stress constant on the specimen. The test results showed that the decrease in matric suction has an effect on the volume of infiltrated water and degree of saturation. The soil slopes compacted on the dry side of optimum moisture content showed better performance than other soils, they require more decrease in matric suction to start water infiltration and showed higher deviatoric stress. In addition to this, water infiltration alone can cause the failure of shallow slopes without having to have any further loading.

This study aims to investigate a friction stir welded joint between steel and aluminum alloy. Friction stir welding is nowadays one of the most interesting joining technique due to the possibility to connect materials and thicknesses that are difficult or impossible to weld with traditional techniques. The main advantage is that Materials are not affected by thermal cycle problems during solidification and cooling and the absence of fumes and pollution during the process favors the quality of the welded joint. The life of metal joints could be greatly reduced in a corrosive environment, since the less noble material will tend to increase its corrosion rate while the nobler one will reduce its electrochemical dissolution. Accelerated ageing tests (i.e. salt fog test) are used to estimate the lifetime of metal joints in highly aggressive environments. The aim of the present work is to evaluate the durability at long ageing time in salt spray test (according to ASTM B117) of carbon steel/aluminum alloy joints, obtained by FSW. In this first part, mechanical tests results are reported. A deep metallographic and chemical investigation are going to be reported in the part 2.

The increasing prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), a serious condition associated with elevated risks of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, underscores the urgent need for effective diagnostic tools. This research carefully examines the effectiveness of 16 diverse machine learning (ML) models in predicting MetS, a multifaceted health condition linked to increased risks of heart disease and other serious health complications. Utilizing a comprehensive, unpublished dataset of imbalanced blood test results, spanning from 2017 to 2022, from the Laboratory Information System of the General Hospital of Amfissa, Greece, our study embarks on a novel approach to enhance MetS diagnosis. By harnessing the power of advanced ML techniques, we aim to predict MetS with greater accuracy using non-invasive blood test data, thereby reducing the reliance on more invasive diagnostic methods. Central to our methodology is the application of the Borda count method, an innovative technique employed to refine the dataset. This process prioritizes the most relevant variables, as determined by the performance of the leading ML models, ensuring a more focused and effective analysis. Our selection of models, encompassing a wide array of ML techniques, allows for a comprehensive comparison of their individual predictive capabilities in identifying MetS. This study not only illuminates the unique strengths of each ML model in predicting MetS but also reveals the expansive potential of these methods in the broader landscape of health diagnostics. The insights gleaned from our analysis are pivotal in shaping more efficient strategies for the management and prevention of Metabolic Syndrome, thereby addressing a significant concern in public health.

In this paper, we propose a method for the generation of simulation test scenarios for autonomous driving. Based on the requirements of standard regulatory test scenarios, we can generate virtual simulation scenarios and functional scenario libraries for autonomous driving, which can be used for simulation verification of different ADAS functions. Firstly, the design operation domain (ODD) of the functional scenario is selected and the weight values of the ODD elements taken are calculated; then a combination test algorithm based on parameter weights is improved to generate autonomous driving virtual simulation test cases for the ODD elements, which can effectively reduce the number of generated test cases compared with the traditional combination test algorithm; then the traffic participant elements under each test case are Then, the values of the subelements under the traffic participant element in each test case are sampled and clustered to obtain hazard specific scenarios. Finally, the specific scenarios are applied to the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system on the model-in-the-loop (MIL) testbed to verify the effectiveness of this scenario generation method.

Measurements of systems taken along a continuous functional dimension, such as time or space, are ubiquitous in many fields, from the physical and biological sciences to economics and engineering. Such measurements can be viewed as realisations of an underlying smooth process sampled over the continuum. However, traditional methods for independence testing and causal learning are not directly applicable to such data, as they do not take into account the dependence along the functional dimension. By using specifically designed kernels, we introduce statistical tests for bivariate, joint, and conditional independence for functional variables. Our method not only extends the applicability to functional data of the Hilbert-Schmidt independence criterion (HSIC) and its d-variate version (d-HSIC), but also allows us to introduce a test for conditional independence by defining a novel statistic for the conditional permutation test (CPT) based on the Hilbert-Schmidt conditional independence criterion (HSCIC), with optimised regularisation strength estimated through an evaluation rejection rate. Our empirical results of the size and power of these tests on synthetic functional data show good performance, and we then exemplify their application to several constraint- and regression-based causal structure learning problems, including both synthetic examples and real socio-economic data.

Consumers often cite cognitive improvements as reasons for making dietary changes or using dietary supplements, a motivation that if leveraged could greatly enhance public health. However, rarely is it considered whether standardized cognitive tests that are used in nutrition research are aligned to outcomes of interest to the consumer. This knowledge gap presents a challenge to the scientific substantiation of nutrition-based cognitive health benefits. Here we combined qualitative consumer research and expert group methodology to (1) understand how consumers comprehend the potential benefits of nutrition for brain health, and (2) determine the alignment between consumers' articulated brain benefits and validated tests and tools. We derived a ‘Consumer Taxonomy of Cognitive and Affective Health in Nutrition Research’ which describes the cognitive and affective structure from the consumers' perspective. Experts agreed that validated tests exist for some consumer benefits including focused attention, sustained attention, episodic memory, energy levels, and anxiety. Prospective memory, flow, and presence represented novel benefits that require the development and validation of new tests and tools. Closing the gap between science and consumers, and fostering co-creative approaches to nutrition research, are critical to the development of products and dietary recommendations that support realizable cognitive benefits that benefit public health.

Flammability was evaluated and the results showed the values of critical flux at extinguishment (CFE) as 49.5kW/㎡ on average, total heat release (Qt) as 0.21MJ on average, and peak heat release rate (Qp) as 0.66kW on average, which satisfied all of the thresholds presented by the IMO. Therefore, flame-retardant plywood, of which the flame-retardant performance was evaluated, was determined to be an applicable finishing material that satisfies fire safety standards.

Globally, over the past several months millions of persons contracted the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) resulting in significant mortality. Health care systems are negatively impacted including the care of individuals with cancers and other chronic diseases such as chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. There are various probable pathogenic mechanisms that have been presented to account for liver injury in COVID-19 patients such as hepatotoxicity cause by therapeutic drugs, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection of the bile duct cells and hepatocytes, hypoxia and systemic inflammatory response. Liver biochemistry tests such as AST, ALT, GGT and ALP are deranged in COVID-19 patients with liver injury. Hepatocellular damage results in the elevation of serum AST and ALT levels in early onset disease while a cholestatic pattern that develops as the disease progress causes higher levels of ALP, GGT, direct and total bilirubin. These liver biochemistry tests are prognostic markers of disease severity and should be carefully monitored in COVID-19 patients. We conducted a systematic review of abnormal liver biochemistry tests in COVID-19 and the possible pathogenesis involved. Significant findings regarding the severity, hepatocellular pattern, incidence and related clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients are highlighted.

In order to study the way how to improve the spatial action of precast monolithic composite floor slabs, and would replace the cast-in-place surface layer for reduce the weight of structure, using pseudo-dynamic tests on 1/4 scale models of two-span and three-story frame structure. The lateral load tests compared the stresses and displacements with cast-in-place floor frame-shear wall structure (SJ1) and precast monolithic floor frame-shear wall structure with X horizontal braces at the bottom of the floor (SJ2). The results show the X horizontal braces can improve the spatial action. Structural integrity (SJ2) as well as the effective transmission of the horizontal force can be ensured by additional X bracing at the bottom of the rigidity of the floor without cast-in-place concrete topping. The results show that X horizontal braces more effectively transfer horizontal, which provides a beneficial reference for similar research.

The two-parameter distribution introduced by Kumaraswamy (1980) is a very flexible alternative to the Beta distribution with the same (0,1) support. Originally proposed in the field of hydrology, it has subsequently received a good deal of positive attention in both the theoretical and applied statistics literatures. Interestingly, the problem of testing formally for the appropriateness of the Kumaraswamy distribution appears to have received little or no attention to date. To fill this gap, in this paper we apply the “biased transformation” methodology proposed by Raschke (2009) to several standard goodness-of-fit tests based on the empirical distribution function. A simulation study reveals that these (modified) tests perform well in the context of the Kumaraswamy distribution, in terms of both low size distortion, and respectable power. In particular, the “biased transformation” Anderson-Darling test dominates the other tests that are considered.

Given that evaluating suspected child maltreatment is a challenging task, we aimed to begin to explore how laboratory test results may assist in its detection. Hence, we have examined biomarker differences between 137 children entering out-of-home care and 126 children living in their own homes. Each child entering Majorcan institutionalized care was randomly matched for gender and age with children living in their homes and the same health area. Concerning basic hematological and biochemical values, children placed in out-of-home care differed significantly from children remaining at home in four distinct ways. Children at care entry had significantly higher eosinophil counts than children at home; and also had significantly lower levels of transaminase, thyroid-stimulating hormone, triglycerides and LDL-Cholesterol than children living at home. Oxidative stress linked to anxiety disorders and underweight are common features found in children at entry into the care system. The present study shows a relationship between some underweight or oxidative stress biomarkers and the risk of entry into out-of-home care. Medical diagnoses require physicians to select and assemble relevant data from all available information. Accordingly, we should consider the implementation of laboratory checkups in order to identify the abused from the non-abused child better.

Carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs) present a major threat to public health, demanding precise diagnostic techniques their detection. Discrepancies among CPO tests have raised concerns, partly due to limitations in detecting bacterial diversity within host/specimen. We explored the impact of unbiased colony selection on carbapenemase testing and assessed its relevance on various tests. Based on "FirstAll" for unbiased colony selection to reduce bias, we compared modified carbapenem inactivation method/EDTA-modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM/eCIM), Carba5, the CPO panel, and multiplex PCR (M-PCR). Initially, we compared FirstAll to conventional colony selection for mCIM. Second, we used M-PCR as a reference, to evaluate test performance across seven CPO species. The results revealed that FirstAll selection improved carbapenemase detection, revising false-negative in 10.5% of K. pneumoniae isolates. In addition, 12.4% of CPOs tested positive for multiple carbapenemase genes. Both the Carba5 test and CPO panel showed suboptimal performance (sensitivity/specificity: Carba5 75.5%/89.0%, CPO panel 78.1%/74.0%). Carba5 test provided specific carbapenemase class assignments but CPO panel failed in 20.3% of cases. Carba5 test and the CPO panel results correlated well with ceftazidime-avibactam minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Concordance for class A/D with MICs was 88.3% for Carba5 and 92.0% for the CPO panel; whereas for class B, it was 86.5% for Carba5 and 76.2% for the CPO panel. In conclusion, FirstAll as the unbiased colony selection impacted carbapenemase testing. With FirstAll, the diagnostic performance of either Carba5 or the CPO panel was compromised. The utilization of ceftazidime-avibactam guided by either the CPO panel or Carba5 was appropriate.

Most diagnostic tests for tuberculosis (TB) rely on sputum samples, which are difficult to obtain and have low sensitivity in immunocompromised patients, patients with disseminated TB, and children, delaying treatment initiation. The World Health Organization (WHO) calls for the development of a rapid, biomarker-based, non-sputum test capable of detecting all forms of TB at the point-of-care to enable immediate treatment initiation. Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) is the only WHO-endorsed TB biomarker which can be detected in urine, an easily collected sample. This review discusses the characteristics of LAM as a biomarker, describes the performance of first-generation urine LAM tests and reasons for slow uptake, and presents considerations for developing the next-generation of more sensitive and impactful tests. Next-generation urine LAM tests have the potential to reach adult and pediatric patients regardless of HIV status or site of infection and facilitate global TB control. Implementation and scale-up of existing LAM tests and development of next-generation assays should be prioritized.

Purpose: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recently published quality standards for assessment of fall risk and preventing further falls. According to the standards, multifactorial fall risk assessments should include: identification of falls history; analysis of gait, balance, mobility and muscle strength, among other factors. Despite being based on subjective analysis or simple timing and not being multifactorial, physiotherapists and physicians quite often use these tests as reference scales to differentiate between lower and higher risk of falling. Instrumented TUG has been recently reported to provide important additional information to the overall score. Objective: To explore a case-based approach of fall risk assessment to identify the most relevant and informative risk factors that in combination could better define a person risk profile. Materials and Methods: A multifactorial assessment of fall risk through questionnaires, standard functional tests, tests instrumented with inertial sensors, and force platforms has been studied within a group aged 55-80 years old. Different fall risk factors and fall risk assessment methods were analyzed in a case-based descriptive study. Results & Discussion: Subjects at higher risk of falling were identified based on their detailed profiles. A set of features were obtained from the instrumented standard tests differing significantly between subjects presenting higher or lower fall risk. Therefore, instrumenting conventional tests with wearables containing inertial sensors and force platforms gives more detailed and quantitative insights. This information can be used to better define and tailor fall prevention exercises and to improve the follow-up of the evolution of the subject.

Contemporary global policy, driven by concern for the environment, imposes increasingly stringent goals for reducing CO2 emissions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop effective models that allow an accurate prediction of CO2 emissions from vehicles powered by alternative fuels such as CNG. This article presents the process of creating one of the first models of CO2 emission for a vehicle powered by CNG. Emission modelling is based on data obtained from chassis dynamometer tests and road tests using the portable emission measurement system (PEMS). CO2 emission modelling was conducted in Python programming language using the Optuna framework for the XGBoost technique. The models obtained were validated, with indicators R2 0.9 and RMSE 0.49 for data from chassis dynamometer tests, and R2 0.7, RMSE 0.71 for road test data. This work has the potential to be used by transportation decision makers involved in environmental analyses and policymaking for urban areas.

Increasing evidence supports the direct healing effects of forests, partly attributed to the exposure to plant-emitted monoterpenes available in the forest atmosphere. The potential benefits on respiratory functions from inhaling monoterpenes have gained attention, especially due to the global rise in respiratory diseases. This study involved 42 asthmatic adolescents attending a summer rehabilitation camp at an Altitude Pediatric Asthma Center within a densely forested area in the Eastern Italian Alps. Volatile organic compound measurements indicated a pristine atmosphere, enabling modeling of continuous hourly monoterpenes concentration. Monoterpene concentration exposure and total inhaled dose were assessed over a 14-day stay, during which spirometry, lung oscillometry, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide were measured. Statistically significant correlations were observed between modifications in lung function parameters among asthmatic adolescents and monoterpenes exposure. These findings suggest a potential localized airway effect specific to monoterpenes. This pilot cohort study might pave the way for further investigations into the therapeutic effects of forest monoterpenes on lung function tests, asthma, and the broader healing potential of forest environments.

Electrode is a key component in a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) and it needs significant improvement for practical implementation of MEC. For effective development of electrode technology, accurate and reproducible analytical methods are very important. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) is an essential analytical method for evaluating electrode performance; however, it has not been firmly established yet in the MEC field. In this study, biological brush (BB), abiotic brush (AB), Pt wire (PtW), stainless steel wire (SSW) and mesh (SSM)) were tested to explore the most suitable counter electrode in different medium conditions. Coefficient of variation (CV) for Imax of LSV were comparatively analyzed. In BB-anode LSV, SSW (0.48%) and SSM (2.17%) showed higher reproducibility as a counter electrode. In SSM-cathode LSV, BB (1.76%) and PtW (2.01%) produced more reproducible results. In the Ni-AC-SSM-cathode LSV, PtW (3.54%) and BB (8.81%) produced more reproducible result. It shows electrode used in the operation is an appropriate counter electrode in the acetate-added condition. However, in the absence of acetate, PtW (1.24%) and BB (1.71%) produced more reproducible results in SSM cathode and PtW (0.61%) and SSW (1.21%) did in the Ni-AC-SSM-cathode, showing PtW is an appropriate counter electrode. These results also shows that PtW is an appropriate counter electrode in cathode LSV.

Current oncological developments are based on improved understanding of genetics, and especially the discovery of genes whose alterations affect cell functions with consequences for the whole body. Our work is focused on the one of these genes, the BARD1 and its oncogenic role in breast cancer. Most importantly, the study points to new avenues in the treatment and prevention of the most frequent female cancer based on BARD1 research. The BARD1 and BRCA1 proteins have similar structures and functions, and they combine to form the new molecule BARD1-BRCA1 heterodimer. The BARD1-BRCA1 complex is involved in genetic stabilization at the cellular level. It allows to mark abnormal DNA fragments by attaching ubiquitin to them. In addition, it blocks (by ubiquitination of RNA polymerase II) the transcription of damaged DNA. Ubiquitination, as well as stabilizing chromatin, or regulating the number of centrosomes, confirms the protective cooperation of BARD1 and BRCA1 in the stabilization of the genome. The overexpression of the oncogenic isoforms BARD1β and BARD1δ permit cancer development. The introduction of routine tests, for instance, to identify the presence of the BARD1β isoform, would make it possible to detect patients at high risk of developing cancer. On the other hand, introducing BARD1δ isoform blocking therapy, which would reduce estrogen sensitivity, may be a new line of cancer therapy with potential to modulate responses to existing treatments. It is possible that the BARD 1 gene offers new hope for improving breast cancer therapy.

Current oncological developments are based on improved understanding of genetics, and especially the discovery of genes whose alterations affect cell functions with consequences for the whole body. Our work is focused on the most important of these genes, the BARD1 and its oncogenic role in breast cancer. Most importantly, the study points to new avenues in the treatment and prevention of the most frequent female cancer based on BARD1 research. The BARD1 and BRCA1 proteins have similar structures and functions, and they combine to form the new molecule BARD1-BRCA1 heterodimer. Through ubiquitination, this heterodimer has significant effects on individual proteins, enabling, among others, the destruction of damaged DNA fragments. Ubiquitination, as well as stabilizing chromatin, or regulating the number of centrosomes, confirms the protective cooperation of BARD1 and BRCA1 in the stabilization of the genome. The overexpression of the oncogenic isoforms BARD1β and BARD1δ permit cancer development. The introduction of routine tests, for instance, to identify the presence of the BARD1β isoform, would make it possible to detect patients at high risk of developing cancer. On the other hand, introducing BARD1δ isoform blocking therapy, which would reduce estrogen sensitivity, may be a new line of cancer therapy with potential to modulate responses to existing treatments. It is possible that the BARD 1 gene offers new hope for improving breast cancer therapy.

Tumor biomarkers have great potential in screening and their role could extend further from general population risk assessment to treatment response estimation and recurrence monitoring. Different molecular and cellular elements in blood, which give information about the status of an individual, make it a perfect compartment to develop noninvasive diagnostics approaches for cancer. The present study aimed to screen the most frequent tumor markers in the Angolan population according to age and gender. A whole blood sample was collected for each patient. Serum levels were measured using the electrochemiluminescence method, using the automated Cobas e411 equipment (Roche®) according to the manufacturer's instructions. The results of our study elucidated the relevance of tumor biomarkers in screening for different types of cancer. These results also highlight the robustness of the mean in suspected cases, which is 15 to 17 times higher in some markers than in non-suspected cases. More research is needed to elucidate the relevance of these biomarkers in the Angolan population.

Parasite control strategies such as blanket anthelmintic treatment of all horses in a herd or interval treatment regimen based on egg reappearance remain widely followed practices for the last several decades. These practices have resulted in the fast emergence of resistance in equine strongyles to all major classes of drugs on the market. In this regard, the guidelines set by the American Association of Equine Practitioners advocate evidence-based strongyle control in horses. It recommends targeted treatment of all heavy egg shedders [&gt; 500 eggs per gram (EPG) of feces] while the low shedders (0-200 EPG) are left untreated to maintain susceptible parasite refugia in a herd. As 50-75% of adult horses in a herd are low shedders, preventing them from unnecessary anthelmintic exposure is critical to tackling resistance. There are various fecal egg count (FEC) techniques with many modifications and variations in use, but none is identified as a gold standard and methods comparison studies are lacking. We hypothesized that the diagnostic performance of commonly used quantitation methodologies differs and the FEC methods must be evaluated to determine the gold standard. In this regard, we performed methods comparison studies using polystyrene beads with size and specific gravity comparable to strongyle eggs, as proxy. The linearity of 12 commonly used FEC methodologies (3 techniques with 4 different solutions) was studied using bead standards in the clinically applicable range (63 to 1,000) to determine their suitability for strongyle egg counts. Deming regression analysis identified Mini-FLOTAC with sugar (specific gravity 1.33) as the test with the greatest coefficient of determination. All tests underestimated the true bead count, and we determined a correction factor (CF) for each test to estimate the true count. CF negates the preference for a gold standard test. Finally, we analyzed the validity of CF for 5 tests with R2&gt;0.95 to accurately quantify strongyle eggs from 40 different horses. Overall, this study identified methodologies with the highest diagnostic performance and the limitations to standardizing routine FEC tests to promote uniformity in implementing AAEP parasite control guidelines.

Water is a limited resource that needs to be properly managed and distributed to the ever-growing population of the world. Rapid urbanization and development have drastically increased the overall water demand worldwide. Ageing water distribution networks are vulnerable to deterioration and leakage, thereby causing an estimated annual loss of about 48 trillion liters of water. To address these issues, efficient and reliable leakage detection and management techniques are necessary. In this paper, the results of the experiments performed on a looped water distribution network in AnSeong, Korea are discussed. Transient-based techniques were used and physical data were collected for the detection and localization of leakages in the experimental water pipes. The results obtained from the experiments demonstrated the applicability of transient techniques for leak analysis in looped water distribution networks.

The main objective of this study focuses on designing and testing body protection systems using advanced materials based on aramid fibers, for high impact speeds of up to 410...430 m/s. The investigation of the failure mechanisms identifies issues of protective materials, major challenges and technological problems for efficient development of these systems. The authors presents an investigation on the failure processes and destructive stages of a ballistic package made of succesive layers of LFT SB1plus, taking into account the particular test conditions from NIJ Standard-0101.06 Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor. The main parameter of interest was the backface signature (BFS), but also details of projectile arrest and SEM investigaton could offer arguments in using this material for individual protection.

Background: Diabetes is a common non-communicable disease that is responsible for about 9% of all deaths and 25% reduction in life expectancy and nearly half of the diabetic patients are not aware of their disease. In this regard, diabetes screening to identify un-known diabetic patients is of great importance. Aims: The aims of this study were first to evaluate the performance of two commonly used diabetes screening tests that are currently recommended by the Iranian national screening program for diabetes (NSPD). Methods: The validities of the two diabetes screening tests were measured among 1057 participants older than 30 years. The studied screening tests included Capillary fasting blood glucose (CBG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The golden standard for measuring the validity of the tests was venous fasting plasma glucose (VPG). Results: According to the results, the sensitivity of CBG and HbA1c tests were 69.01% and 84.5% and the specificity of the tests were 95.7% and 79.3% respectively. Positive and negative predictive values were 53.84% and 97.72% for CBG and 22.72% and 98.61% for HbA1c respectively. The recommended cut-points for CBG and HbA1c were 116.5 mg/dl and 7.15% respectively. Using these values as the new cut-points, sensitivity and specificity of CBG and HbA1c changed to 80.30% and 89.10%, and 77.50% and 94.20% respectively. Conclusions: Compared to several other countries, the performance of NSPD is relatively higher in Iran. ROC analysis suggested new cut-points for significantly better performance of NSPD.

A correlation of basic science and clinical symptoms in the human to propose a new theory for how the vestibular system works Neil S. Longridge Professor Emeritus, Division of Otolaryngology Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC CANADA *Arthur I. Mallinson, Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Otolaryngology Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC CANADA NS Longridge † *AI Mallinson † These authors contributed equally to this work. ABSTRACT; Bipedalism is unique among mammals. Until modern times, a fall and resulting leg fracture could be fatal. Balance maintenance after a destabilizing event requires instantaneous decision-making. The vestibular system plays an essential role in this process, initiating an emergency response. The afferent otolithic neural response is the first directionally oriented information to reach the cortex, and can then be used to initiate an appropriate protective response. Some vestibular efferent axons feed directly into the type I vestibular hair cells. This allows for rapid vestibular feedback via the striated organelle (STO), which has been largely ignored in most texts. We propose that this structure is essential in emergency fall prevention, and also that the system of sensory detection and resultant motor response works by having efferent movement information transmitted to the maculae simultaneously with the movement commands. This results in the otolithic membrane positioning itself precisely for the planned movement, and any error is due to an unexpected external cause. Error is fed back via the vestibular afferent system. The efferent system through the STO causes macular otolithic membrane movement which occurs simultaneously with the initiating motor command. As a result, no vestibular afferent activity occurs unless an error must be dealt with.

Abstract: Spinal disorders are some of the most prevalent health concerns, especially among stu-dents. Based on student demographics, this cross-sectional study evaluated the correlation be-tween functional tests (FT) and spinal range of motion (ROM). This study included 206 students from Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacău. Participants' assessments were conducted using the following tests: (i) Ott, (ii) Schober, (iii) Stibor, (iv) finger-to-floor distance, (v) lateral flexion of the cervical and lumbar spine, and (vi) flexion of the cervical spine. Correlation analyses were evaluated using Spearman correlation coefficient analysis. The results indicated a very strong re-lationship between lateral flexion of the lumbar spine on the left (LFLSL) and right (LFSR) for all departments (r = 0.85 to 0.97, p < 0.05). There was a stronger relationship between FT results and spinal ROM of physical education department students compared to students from other de-partments (n = 17, r = -0.38 to 0.93, p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant correlation be-tween FT and spinal ROM based on age (p > 0.05). The study results provide evidence of the pri-mary risk factors that predispose students to postural deviations. Practitioners and physiothera-pists can utilize these values as a reference for potential therapeutic interventions.

The goal of this study was to develop a rapid diagnostic kit for rheumatic disease and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) screening. A novel rapid vertical flow assay (VFA) was engineered and used to assay anti-nuclear (ANA) and anti-dsDNA (αDNA) autoantibodies from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and healthy controls (HC). Observer scores and absolute signal intensities from the VFA were validated by ELISA. The rapid ten minute point of care VFA test engineered demonstrated a limit of detection of 0.5 IU/ml for ANA and αDNA autoantibodies in human plasma with inter-operator CV of 19% for ANA and 12% for αDNA. Storage stability was verified over a three-month period. When testing anti-dsDNA and ANA levels in 22 SLE and 18 HC serum samples, the duplex VFA revealed 95% sensitivity, 72% specificity and 84% accuracy in discriminating disease groups, comparable to the gold standard, ELISA. The rapid αDNA/ANA duplex VFA can potentially be used in primary care clinics for evaluating patients or at-risk subjects for rheumatic diseases and for planning follow-up testing. Given its low cost, ease and rapid turnaround, it can also be used to assess SLE prevalence estimates.

Abstract: A prevalence boundary (PB) marks the point in prevalence where the false omission rate, RFO=FN/(TN+FN), exceeds the tolerance limit for missed diagnoses. Objectives were to mathematically analyze rapid antigen test (RAgT) performance, determine why PBs are breeched, and evaluate the merits of testing three times over five days, now required by the US Food and Drug Administration for asymptomatic persons. Equations were derived to compare test performance patterns, calculate PBs, and perform recursive computations. An independent July 2023 FDA-university-commercial evaluation of RAgTs provided performance data used in theoretical calculations. Tiered sensitivity/specificity comprise: Tier-1) 90%, 95%; Tier-2) 95%, 97.5%; and Tier-3) 100%, ≥99%, respectively. Repeating a T2 test improves the PB from 44.6% to 95.2% (RFO 5%). In the FDA-university-commercial evaluation, RAgTs generated sensitivity of 34.4%, which improved to 55.3% when repeated, then 68.5% with the third test. With RFO=5%, PBs were 7.37/10.46/14.22%, respectively. PB analysis suggests RAgTs should achieve clinically proven sensitivity of 91.0-91.4%. When prevalence exceeds PBs, missed diagnoses can perpetuate virus transmission. Repeating low-sensitivity RAgTs delays diagnosis. In homes, high-risk settings, and hotspots, PB breaches may prolong contagion, defeat mitigation, facilitate new variants, and transform outbreaks into endemic disease. Molecular diagnostics can help avoid these potential vicious cycles

Background and Objectives: Coagulation disorders during COVID-19 infection are associated with poor prognosis and disease severity, because two processes that interfere each other are thrombosis and inflammation. Very important issue for clinicians is timely and adequate hemostasis and inflammation monitoring in order to prevent and treat potentially lethal consequences. Materials and Methods: The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Clinical center Nis, Serbia. One hundered fourty two patients presented with COVID-19 ARDS were admitted to the ICU in Clinic for anesthesiology Clinical Center Nis, from 14th April 2020 to 25 th May 2020. On admission blood was collected for biochemical and coagulation testing. The data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS v. 25, Chicago, IL, USA). Results: Among all parameters assessed, mortality was associated with higher age (p&lt;0.05), higher factor I (p&lt;0.05), INR (p&lt;0.001), D-Dimer (p&lt;0.001), ADP (p&lt;0.001), ASPI (p&lt;0.001), TRAP (p&lt;0.001), PSEP (p&lt;0.001), A5 extest (p&lt;0.01), A10 ex test (p&lt;0.01), A5 fib (p&lt;0.001), A10fib (p&lt;0.001) and MCF fib (p&lt;0.001) values, but lower CT extest values (p&lt;0.05). Mortality was associated with extreme values of D-Dimer above 1000 (p&lt;0.001), ADP above 590 (p&lt;0.001), ASPI above 800 (p&lt;0.001), TRAP above 1500 (p&lt;0.001) and PSEP above 1000 (p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: The key to success in the treatment of COVID 19 infection is timely and adequate therapy and patient monitoring, which is impossible without early risk stratification and mortality prediction. Sophisticated hemostasis parameters can contribute to early risk assessment, which was initially performed only on the basis of the patient's clinical status.

If a lubricant contains structures capable of conducting energy, reactions involving zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) may take place both very close to and away from the solid surfaces, with this indicating that ZDDP can be a highly effective anti-wear (AW) additive. The central thesis of this article is that the tribocatalytic effect is observed only when the energy emitted by the solids is transmitted by ordered molecular structures present in the lubricant, e.g., graphene. The friction tests were carried out for 100Cr6 steel balls in a sliding contact with uncoated or a:C-H-coated HS6-5-2C steel discs in the presence of polyalphaolefin 8 (PAO 8) as the lubricant, which was enhanced with graphene and/or ZDDP. There is sufficient evidence of the interactions occurring between ZDDP and graphene and their effects on the tribological performance of the system. It was also found that the higher the concentration of zinc in the wear area, the lower the wear. This was probably due to the energy transfer resulting from the catalytic decomposition of ZDDP molecules. Graphene, playing the role of the catalyst, contributed to that energy transfer.

The ground consists of many layers of soil with different properties. The propagation speed and path of seismic waves are affected by different soil layers. It is necessary to understand that layered soil exhibits different dynamic behaviors and responses under the action of seismic waves. This study utilized weathered soil and silica sand as materials to create multi-layered soil conditions with varying degrees of compaction. By conducting 1 g shaking table test on multi-layered soil, the interaction and influence between different soil layers under different earthquake conditions were observed. The approach of numerical analysis aims to validate the experimental results and provide an in-depth understanding of the dynamic behaviors of multi-layered soil grounds during seismic events. The results of this study show that the amplification effect of seismic waves is related to the number of soil layers and the degree of compaction of the soil layers. This indicates that the multi-layered soil ground and the behavior of the soil layers play an important role in the propagation and impact of seismic waves, and this amplification effect is of great significance in actual seismic disaster risk assessment and design.

Pin-on-plate and pin-on-disk wear tests are typically used for assessing the wear behavior of a given material coupling. Such a behavior is frequently described by a wear coefficient k, which is estimated, according to the Archard’s law, as the ratio between the measured wear volume V and the product of the applied normal force F and the sliding distance s, i.e. k=V/(F s). This study demonstrates that such a relationship is correct for pin-on-plate but not for pin-on-disk, particularly for flat-ended pins. Both analytical and finite element models of the two tests were developed, considering three different distances pin-disk axis. As results, wear volumes, pressure and wear depth maps were examined and compared for the same sliding distance. Though this study is focused only on the initial transient part of the wear tests, some interesting aspects arose: i) rotational effect in pin-on-disk tests affects k estimation, especially when the pin is near to the disk axis; ii) a simple analytical function is defined to correct the wear volume estimation for pin-on-disk tests; iii) due to the different sliding distances of contact points in pin-on-disk tests, pressure redistribution occurs with higher values on the inner side (closer to disk axis); the opposite trend is observed in wear depth maps. From a computational point of view, the pin-on-disk problem, only apparently simple, required very small time increments to correctly describe the circular trajectories of points, with high computational costs. Numerical strategies are currently under investigation to extend the study to the steady state phase of both tests.

Abattoir workers are liable to zoonotic infections from animals and animal products, pri-marily to diseases with asymptomatic and chronic clinical manifestations in animals such as brucellosis. No published reports exist on the seroprevalence of brucellosis in abattoir workers in South Africa. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the occurrence and risk factors for Brucella exposure in abattoir workers in Gauteng Province. A total of 103 abattoir workers and managers from six abattoirs, where brucellosis-positive slaughtered cattle and sheep were previously detected, were interviewed, and tested with serological assays using the Rose Bengal test (RBT), BrucellaCapt, and IgG-ELISA. A pre-tested questionnaire was administered to consenting respondents to obtain infor-mation on risk factors for brucellosis. Of the 103 respondents tested, the distribution of fe-male and male workers was 16 (15.5%) and 87 (84.5%), respectively. The seroprevalence for exposure to brucellosis was 21/103 (20.4%, 95%CI: 13.1-29.5) using a combination of RBT, BrucellaCapt, or IgG-ELISA. For test-specific results, seroprevalences by RBT, BrucellaCapt, and IgG-ELISA were 13/103 (12.6%, 95%CI: 6.9-20.6), 9/103 (8.74%, 95%CI: 4.1-15.9) and 18/103 (17.5%, 95%CI: 10.7-26.2), respectively. Low-throughput abattoirs were identified as associated risk as 29.3% of workers were seropositive compared to 12.7% of workers in high-throughput abattoirs, which highlights that direct contact at abattoirs poses higher risk to workers than indirect and direct contact outside abattoirs. This study confirmed the occurrence of Brucella spp. antibodies among abattoir workers in South Africa, possibly due to occupational exposure to Brucella spp. and highlight the occupational hazard to workers. Furthermore, findings underscore that abattoir facilities can serve as points for active and passive surveillance for indicators of diseases of public health importance. We recommend periodic implementation of brucellosis testing of abattoir workers country-wide to establish baseline data for informing appropriate preventive practices and reduce the potential burden of infection rate among these high-risk workers.

This paper presents results from numerical and experimental investigation on Charpy tests in order to point out failure mechanisms and to evaluate new polymeric blends PP+PA6+EPDM. Charpy tests were done for initial velocity of the impactor of 0.96 m/s and its mass of 3.219 kg and these data were also introduced in the finite element model. The proposed model take into account the system of four balls, including support and the ring of fixing the three balls and it has a finer discretization of the impact area to highlight the mechanisms of failure and their development in time. The constitutive models for four materials (polypropylene with 1% Kritilen, two blends PP+PA6+EPDM and a blend PA6+EPDM) were derived from tensile tests. Running simulations for each constitutive model of material makes possible to differentiate the destruction mechanisms according to the material introduced in the simulation, including the initiation and the development of the crack(s), based on equivalent plastic strain at break (EPS) for each material. The validation of the model and the simulation results was done qualitatively, analysing the shape of broken surfaces and comparing them to SEM images and quantitatively by comparing the impact duration, energy absorbed by the sample, the value of maximum force during impact. The duration of the destruction of the specimen is longer than the actual one, explainable by the fact that the material model does not take into account the influence of the material deformation speed in Charpy test, the model being designed with the help of tests done at 0.016 m/s (1000 mm/min) (maximum strain rate for the tensile tests). Experimental results are encouraging for recommending the blends 20% PP+42% PA6+28% EPDM and 60% PA6+ 40%EPDM as materials for impact protection at low velocity (1m/s). Simulation results are closer to the experimental ones for the more brittle tested materials (with less content of PA6 and EPDM) and more distanced for the more ductile materials (with higher content of PA6 and EPDM).

Fatigue fractures in materials are the main cause of approximately 80% of all material failures, and it is believed that such failures can be predicted and mathematically calculated in a reliable manner. It is possible to establish prediction modalities in cases of fatigue fracture, according to three fundamental variables in fatigue, such as volume, number of fracture cycles, as well as applied stress, with the integration of Weibull constants (length characteristic). This investigation was carried out mechanical fatigue tests on specimens smaller than 4 mm2 in section of different industrial materials for their subsequent analysis through precision computed tomography in search of microfractures. The measurement of these microfractures, along with their metrics and classifications, was recorded. A convolutional neural network trained with deep learning was used to achieve the detection of microfractures in image processing. The detection of microfractures in images with 480x854 or 960x960 pixels is the primary objective of this network, and its accuracy is above 95%. Images that have microfractures and those that do not are classified by the network. Subsequently, by means of image processing, the microfracture is isolated. Finally, the images that do contain this feature are interpreted by image processing to obtain their area, perimeter, characteristic length, circularity, orientation, and type microfracture metrics. All values will be obtained in pixels and converted to metric units (μm) through a conversion factor based on image resolution.

This paper presents the values of several mechanical characteristics for two blends: H (60% PP + 12% PA6 + 8% EPDM + 20% Polybond 3200) and G (20% PP + 42% PA6 + 28% EPDM + 10% Polybond 3200) (%wt), comparing them to those of PP (polypropylene) and PA6 (polyamide 6). The adding of EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber) and Polybond 3200 help reducing the disadvantages of simple blends made of PP+PA6, when the PA6 concentration allows for having a PA6 matrix with droplets of PP. SEM analysis helps for understanding the performance of material G as compared to the neat polymers. EDX analysis proved that there was a matrix inversion, material H having a PP matrix and material G a matrix made of PA6 with droplets of PP. Strain at break for PP and material H were proved to be insensitive to test speed, but materials G and PA6 had large value for strain at break and energy at break for v = 10 mm/min. Taking at basis the values for polyamide 6 (PA6), material G has greater values for energy at break: with 97.8% for v = 10 mm/min, with 29.5% for v= 250 mm/min and with 98% for 1000 mm/min, without exhibiting the micro and macro cavitation of PA6. This means that the recipe, the technology and the mechanical characteristics make material G a potential candidate for applications where a low and moderate impact resistant material is required.

During the extraction of hard coal in Polish conditions, methane is emitted, which is referred to as mine gas. As a result of the desorption of methane, a greenhouse gas is released from coal seams. In order to reduce atmospheric emissions, methane from coal seams is captured by a methane drainage system. On the other hand, methane, which has been separated into underground mining excavations, is discharged into the atmosphere with a stream of ventilation air. For many years, Polish hard coal mines have been capturing methane to ensure the safety of the crew and the continuity of mining operations. As a greenhouse gas, methane has a significant potential, as it is more effective at absorbing and re-emitting radiation than carbon dioxide. The increase in the amount of methane in the atmosphere is a significant factor influencing global warming, however, it is not as strong as the increase in carbon dioxide. Therefore, in Polish mines, the methane-air mixture captured in the methane drainage system is not emitted to the atmosphere, but burned as fuel in systems, including cogeneration systems, to generate electricity, heat and cold. However, in order for such use to be possible, the methane-air mixture must meet appropriate quality and quantity requirements. The article presents an analysis of changes in selected parameters of the captured methane-air mixture from one of the hard coal mines in the Upper Silesian Coal Basin in Poland. The paper analyses the changes in concentration and size of the captured methane stream through the methane capturing system. The gas captured by the methane drainage system, as an energy source, can be used in cogeneration, when the methane concentration is greater than 40%. Considering the variability of CH4 concentration in the captured mixture, it was also indicated which pure methane stream must be added to the gas mixture in order for this gas to be used as a fuel for gas engines. The balance of power of produced electric energy in gas engines is presented. Possible solutions ensuring constant concentration of the captured methane-air mixture are also presented.

Winter frost injury is a major limiting factor for olive cultivation in temperate regions. The response of olive shoots to freezing stress can be used for selecting resistant genotypes to freezing. The electrolyte leakage (EL) and tetrazolium tests (TZ) are commonly used to evaluate dead tissues in cold stress studies. The temperature-response curve of dead tissues to lethal temperature (LT) is measured with models to calculate LT50 and LT90. In this study, we evaluated the accuracy and efficiency of eighteen non-linear regression models (NLRs) in calculating LT50 and LT90 of freezing stress in different olive cultivars at various stages of dormancy. After evaluating the prediction performance of NLR models, it was found that only eight models were suitable for the purpose of this research out of the 18 models examined. The 2p-logistic and Gompertz models were selected for modeling EL and TZ, respectively. Our research findings indicate that the Roughani, Kawi, and Zard varieties of olive trees exhibit the best performance in cold weather conditions. Our findings provide valuable insights into selecting frost-resistant cultivars and designing effective strategies for cold acclimation in olive cultivation.

Accelerated degradation tests (ADT) are widely used in the manufacturing industry to obtain information on the reliability of components and materials, through degrading the lifespan of the product by applying an acceleration factor which causes damage to the material. The main objective is to obtain fast information which is modeled to estimate the characteristics of the material life under normal conditions of use and to save time and expenses. The purpose of this work is to estimate the lifespan distribution of gold nanoparticles stabilized with lipoic acid (GNPs@LA) through accelerated degradation tests applying sodium chloride (NaCl) as an acceleration factor. For this, the synthesis of GNPs@LA was carried out, a constant stress ADT (CSADT) was applied, and the non-linear Wiener process was proposed with random effects, error measures and different covariability for the adjustment of the degradation signals. The information obtained with the test and analysis allows us to obtain the life distribution in GNPs@LA, the results make possible to determine the guaranteed time for a possible commercialization and successful application based on the stability of the material. In addition, for the evaluation and selection of the model, the Akaike and Bootstraping criteria were used.

The assessment of positive emotional states in animals has been advanced considerably through the use of judgement bias testing. JBT methods have now been reported in a range of species. Generally, these tests show good validity as ascertained through use of corroborating methods of affective state determination. However, published reports of judgement bias task findings can be counter-intuitive and show high inter-individual variability. It is proposed that these outcomes may arise as a result of inherent inter- and intra-individual differences as a result of biology. This review discusses the potential impact of sex and reproductive cycles, social status, genetics, early life experience and personality on judgement bias test outcomes. We also discuss some aspects of test design that may interact with these factors to further confound test interpretation. There is some evidence that a range of biological factors affect judgement bias test outcomes, but in many cases this evidence is limited and needs further characterisation to reproduce the findings and confirm directions of effect. It is our proposition that researchers should consider dedicated study on these factors and their impact on judgement biasing. This is needed to confirm effect and investigate mechanisms. Alternately, consideration and reporting of these factors in JBT studies through incorporation in statistical analyses will provide much needed additional data on their impact. These actions will enhance the validity and practical applicability of the JBT for welfare assessment.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the optimal conditions of membrane filtration process. Both laboratory test and pilot-scale test were conducted to examine a treated water on blending water. The water sample were prepared by blending a raw water and the effluent water filtered through an organic membrane. The optimal efficiency in the treatment of water quality at the lab-scale test was generated under conditions of flux at 2.0 m³/m²∙day, the blending ratio of 4:1, and the optimal dosage of coagulant at 20 ppm. The pilot-scale test resulted in that the optimal efficiency was obtained under conditions of flux at 2.0 m³/m²∙day and the blending ratio of 6.0:1. However, the different results between lab-scale and pilot-scale tests on the optimal dosage of coagulant implied that it is difficult to achieve the stable condition of process operation at the low level of coagulant. In summary, the results indicated that, in the combination process of organic membrane and ceramic membrane, the recovery efficiency was achieved above the level of 98.4 %. Compared to 92.1 % in a single organic membrane process, the combination process is 6.3 % more efficient than the single one. This combination process of water treatment lead to stable recovery rates by the optimal input of dosage, less pollution load to water, and a stabilized filtration system.

The main objective of this paper is to find a close link between the adaptive level of significance, presented here, and the sample size. We, statisticians, know of the inconsistency, or paradox, in the current classical tests of significance that are based on p-value statistics that is compared to the canonical significance levels (10%, 5% and 1%): "Raise the sample to reject the null hypothesis" is the recommendation of some ill-advised scientists! This paper will show that it is possible to eliminate this problem of significance tests. The Bayesian Lindley's paradox – "increase the sample to accept the hypothesis" – also disappears. Obviously, we present here only the beginning of a possible prominent research. The intention is to extend its use to more complex applications such as survival analysis, reliability tests and other areas. The main tools used here are the Bayes Factor and the extended Neyman-Pearson Lemma.

Background: The duration of the vaccine's protective efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 is unknown. Evaluation of the clinical performance of available tests is required. Objectives: To evaluate the clinical performance of three immunoassays for the detection of IgG antibodies generated by mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Methods: Two automated immunoassays (Euroimmun Anti-SARS-CoV-2 ELISA IgG and Abbott SARS-CoV-2 CLIA IgG) and one lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA Test Livzon IgG) were tested. 300 samples distributed in 3 groups were analyzed: 100 subjects over 18 years old and under 45 years old, 100 subjects between 45-65 years old and another 100 over 65 years old. collected before vaccination, at 21 days, 1, 2, 3 and 6 months post-vaccination. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and agreement (I. Kappa) were calculated for each serological test. Results: Maximum sensitivity for IgG was 98.7%, 98.1%, and 97.8% for the ELISA Euroimmun, CLIA Abbott, and Livzon LFIA assays and maximum specificity for IgG was 99.4%, 99.9%. % and 98.4% ELISA, CLIA and LFIA respectively at 3 months after vaccination with a decrease in antibody levels from the sixth month. The best agreement was observed between ELISA and CLIA 100%; (k = 1.00). The agreement between ELIA, CLIA and LIFIA was 99% (k = 0964) at the second and third month after vaccination. Seroconversion was faster and longer lasting in the younger age groups. Conclusion: Our study showed an equivalent and homogeneous clinical performance for IgG of three immunoassays after vaccination and that the LIFIA assay is the most cost-effective, reliable and accurate for routine use in population studies of seroconversion and seroprevalence.

Rapid antigen detection tests (RAD) are commonly used for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, with the continuous emergence of new variants of concern (VOC) presenting various mutations potentially affecting the nucleocapsid protein, the analytical performances of these assays should be frequently reevaluated. One-hundred and twenty samples were selected and tested with both RT-qPCR and five commercial RAD commonly sold in Belgian pharmacies. Of these, direct whole genome sequencing identified the strains present in 116 samples, of which 70 were Delta and 46 were Omicron. Sensitivity across a wide range of Ct values (13.5 to 35.7; median = 21.3) were comparable and ranged from 70.0% to 77.1% for Delta strains and from 69.6% to 78.3% for Omicron strains. When taking swabs with a low viral load (Ct &gt; 25), poor performances were observed for the Delta strains (20.0 to 40.0%) and, even more so, for Omicron strains (0.0 to 23.1%). Two devices failed to detect all samples (n = 13) containing Omicron strains with a low viral load. The poor performance observed with low viral loads is an important limitation of RAD, which is not sufficiently highlighted in the instruction for use of these devices.

Particle size can pose a challenge to random embankment compaction control methods, where practical techniques have hardly been developed and procedural control is used instead. In order to develop new quality control procedures for slate random fill, the necessary fieldwork and laboratory tests were carried out. This involved the revision of certain methods such as the wheel-tracking or topographic settlement tests. More than six hundred in-situ density and moisture content measurements were carried out for this research. In addition, more three hundred topographic settlements and three hundred wheel-tracking carriage tests were performed. The quality control processes were completed with more than thirty plate bearing tests. Possible evidence of statistical correlations between compaction control tests were identified. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed. When testing proved relationships between them, the replacement of one of them by the other was assessed by deduction. Finally, the study suggests new procedures for compaction quality control of random slate fill used in crown area.

The presented study is focused on the impact of binding zones locations at immunochromatographic test strips into analytical parameters of multiplex lateral flow assay. Due to non-equilibrium conditions for such assays the duration of immune reactions influences significantly on analytical parameters, and the integration of several analytes into one multiplex strip may cause essential decrease of sensitivity. To choose the best location of binding zones, we have tested reactants for immunochromatographic assays of lincomycin, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline. The influence of the distance to the binding zones on the intensity of coloration and limit of detection (LOD) was rather different. Basing on the obtained data, the best order of binding zones was chosen. In comparison with non-optimal location the LODs were 5-10 fold improved. The final assay provides LODs 0.4, 0.4 and 1.0 ng/mL for lincomycin, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline, respectively. The proposed approach can be applied for multiassays of other analytes.

The stability of twenty seven composts and organic substrates (including raw, less stable and stable materials) was assessed using two different liquid phase tests were carried out. One of the tests was introduced in 1998 and was based on the calculation of a Specific Oxygen Uptake Rate (SOUR). The newly introduced liquid phase test presented here is simpler to set-up and to perform that the older liquid phase test. It is based on the quantification of oxygen consumption in the headspace of a BOD bottle that contains the liquid-solid solution. The results indicate that a marginal correlation does exist between the main indices calculated from both tests. The correlation was stronger for the indices calculated for stable-processed organics than for the raw (unprocessed materials). The SOUR ranged from 1520 to 3650mg O₂/kg VS-h for the raw materials and from 110 to 1150 mg O₂/kg VS-h for the processed materials, respectively. The corresponding stability rate related index (LSRI₂₄) of the new liquid phase test introduced here ranged from 240 to 1180 mg O₂/dry kg-h for the raw materials and from 64 to 792 mg O₂/dry kg-h for the processed ones.

An innovative mobile Lidar device, developed to monitor volcanic plumes during explosive eruptions at Mt. Etna (Italy) and analyze the optical properties of volcanic particles was upgraded in October 2023 with the aim to improve volcanic plume retrievals. The new configuration of the lidar allows to obtain new data of both the optical and the microphysical properties of the atmospheric aerosol. In fact, after its upgrade, the lidar has the possibility to measure 3β, 2α and 2δ in a configuration defined as “state of the art lidar” where properties such as the particle size distribution and refractive index can be derived. During the lidar implementation we were able to to test the system performance through specific calibration measurements. In this work, the first measurement results are shown and compared with results obtained by other instruments aimed at proving the ability of the upgraded system to more precisely characterize the aerosol optical and microphysical properties.

The Xpert® Xpress SARS-CoV-2 and Xpert® Xpress SARS-CoV-2/Flu/RSV tests were rapidly developed and widely used during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. In response to emerging genetic variability, a new SARS-CoV-2 target (RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase) has been added to both tests: Xpert® Xpress CoV-2 plus and Xpert® Xpress CoV-2/Flu/RSV plus test. A rapid evaluation of both tests was performed in South Africa, using residual respiratory specimens. Residual respiratory specimens (n=125) were used to evaluate the Xpert® Xpress CoV-2 plus test and included 50 genotyped specimens. The Xpert® Xpress CoV-2/Flu/RSV plus test was assessed using 45 genotyped SARS-CoV-2 specimens, ten influenza A, ten Influenza B and twenty respiratory syncytial virus specimens. Results were com-pared to in-country standard of care tests. Genotyped specimens tested the performance of the test under pressure from circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Reference material was included to assess the test limits and linearity. The Xpert® Xpress CoV-2 plus test performance compared to reference results across residual respiratory specimens was good (positive per-centage agreement (PPA)=95.2%, negative percentage agreement (NPA)=95.0%) The Xpert® Xpress CoV-2/Flu/RSV plus test showed good performance across all residual respiratory specimens (PPA=100%, NPA=98.3%). All genotyped variants of concern were detected by both tests. The Xpert® Xpress CoV-2 plus and Xpert® Xpress CoV-2/Flu/RSV plus tests can be used to diagnose SARS-CoV-2, and to diagnose and differentiate SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, influenza B and respiratory syncytial virus respectively. The NPA was lower than the recommended 99%, but was influenced by the low number of negative specimens tested. The variants of concern assessed did not affect test performance. It is recommended that sites perform their own assessments compared to in-country standard of care tests.

1) Background: Northwest Syria (NWS), is a conflict-affected and unstable area. Due to its limited health infrastructure, accessing advanced COVID-19 testing services is challenging. COVID-19 antigen rapid diagnostic tests (Ag-RDTs) have the potential to overcome this barrier. Therefore, a pilot project was implemented to introduce Ag-RDTs in this setting aiming to a) describe the feasibility, uptake, and results of Ag-RDTs; and b) identify facilitators and barriers to Ag-RDTs testing. 2) Methods: A cross-sectional study design involving secondary analysis of data collected during the project’s monitoring was developed. A local NGO implemented 25,000 Ag-RDTs cross boarder through trained community health workers. 3) Results: A total of 27,888 persons were found eligible and enrolled, of which 24,956 (89.5%) consented to test and 121 (0.5%) were found positive. Highest positivity was observed among those with severe COVID-19 symptoms (12.7%), those with respiratory illnesses (2.5%), persons enrolled at Afrin Hospitals (2.5%), and healthcare workers (1.9%). A non-random sample of 236 people underwent confirmatory rt-PCR test. Accordingly, observed sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, were 80.0%, 96.1%, 91.4% and 90.3%, respectively. Key encountered challenges included obtaining informed consent and conducting confirmatory rt-PCR testing. 4) Conclusion: This project demonstrated great feasibility utilizing Ag-RDTs as a screening/diagnostic tool for COVID-19 infections with nearly 90% uptake. Considering the high specificity and negative predictive values and the higher positivity rates among severe COVID-19 symptomatic, embedding Ag-RDTs into COVID-19 testing strategies for ruling out and in COVID-19 infections would hold a great advantage.

Worldwide anthropogenic activities result in the production and release of poten-tially damaging toxic pollutants into ecosystems, thereby jeopardizing their health and continuity. Research studies and biomonitoring programs attend to this emerging problematic by applying and developing statistically relevant indexes that integrate complex biomarker response data to provide an holistic approach reflecting toxically induced alterations at the organism’s or population level. Ultimately, indexes allow simple result communication, enhancing policy makers understanding, so contributing for better resource and environmental managing policies. In this study three indexes , the Integrated Biomarker Response index (IBR), the Bioeffects Assessment Index (BAI) and the Principal Components Analysis (PCA), were evaluated for their sensitivity in revealing toxically induced stress patterns in cells of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum under contaminant exposure. The set of biomarkers selected for index construction comprise the anti-oxidant enzymes APX, CAT and SOD, and the lipid peroxidation marker TBARS. Several significant inverse correlations with the concentration gradients applied, , was noticed for all indexes, though, the IBR excels for its reliability in delivering statistically significant dose-response patterns for four out of the five compounds tested.

Following the general aim of recapitulating the native mechanical properties of tissues and organs in vitro, the field of materials science and engineering has benefited from recent progress in developing compliant substrates with similar physical and chemical properties. In particular, in the field of mechanobiology, soft hydrogels can now reproduce the precise range of stiffnesses of healthy and pathological tissues to study the mechanisms behind cell response to mechanics. However, it was shown that biological tissues are not only elastic but also relax at different timescales. Cells can indeed perceive and actually need this dissipation because it is a critical signal integrated with other signals to define adhesion, spreading and even more complicated functions. The mechanical definition of hydrogels used in mechanobiology is however commonly limited to the elastic stiffness (Young’s modulus) and this value is known to depend greatly on the measurement conditions that are rarely reported. Here, we report that a simple relaxation test performed under well defined conditions can provide all the necessary information to characterize soft materials mechanically, by fitting the dissipation behavior with a generalized Maxwell model (GMM). The method was validated using soft polyacrylamide hydrogels and proved to be very useful to unveil precise mechanical properties of gels that cells can sense and offer a set of characteristic values that can be compared with what is typically reported from microindentation tests.

Outbreaks of Ebola ebolavirus (EBOV) have been associated with high morbidity and mortality. Milestones have been reached recently in the management of EBOV disease (EVD) with licensure of an EBOV vaccine and two monoclonal antibody therapies. However, neither vaccines nor therapies are available for other disease-causing filoviruses. In preparation for such outbreaks, and for more facile and cost-effective management of EVD, we seek a cocktail containing orally available and room temperature stable drugs with strong activity against multiple filoviruses. We previously showed that (bepridil + sertraline) and (sertraline + toremifene) synergistically suppress EBOV in cell cultures. Here we describe steps towards testing these combinations in a mouse model of EVD. We identified a vehicle suitable for oral delivery of the component drugs and determined that, thus formulated the drugs are equally active against EBOV as preparations in DMSO, and they maintain activity upon storage in solution for up to seven days. Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies indicated that the drugs in the oral delivery vehicle are well tolerated in mice at the highest doses tested. Collectively the data support advancement of these combinations to tests for synergy in a mouse model of EVD. Moreover, mathematical modeling based on human oral PK projects that the combinations would be more active in humans than their component single drugs.

Background: The maximal one-repetition test (1-RM) is widely used in scientific research; however, there are conflict results regarding its reproducibility in elderly population. The present study aimed to analyze the reproducibility the test both before and after a 12 week training period by using the bench press and leg press 45° 1-RM tests in the elderly taking into consideration the training experience and strength level of the women. Methods: Elderly women (n = 376; age, 68.5 ± 14.1 years; height, 162.7 ± 5.5 cm; body mass, 71.2 ± 16.0 kg) who underwent ≥3 months of resistance training performed an initial week of familiarization and a second week of testing and retest, with a 48–72 hour interval. Results: The results showed maximal and relative load strength of 39.3 kg and 0.59 kg/body mass for lower limbs and 20.9 kg and 0.31 kg/body mass for upper limbs. The Kappa indices were 0.93 and 0.95, and the intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.99 and 0.99 for the lower and upper limbs, respectively. Conclusion: Therefore, the present study confirms that the 1-RM test has high reliability and reproducibility in the elderly, for both upper and lower limbs.

This article presents a hybrid approach to assessing students’ foreign language proficiency in a cyber-physical educational environment. It focuses on the advantages of integrated assessment of student knowledge by considering the impact of automatic assessment, learners’ independent work, and their achievements to date. An assessment approach is described using the mathematical theory of fuzzy functions, which are employed to ensure fair evaluation of students. The largest possible number of students, whose re-evaluation of test results will not affect the overall performance of the student group, is automatically determined. The study also models the assessment process in the cyber-physical educational environment through the formal semantics of calculus of context-aware ambients (CCA).

Various UAV applications, especially those based on reconnaissance and observation missions, often require an unlimited time of flight. This is possible only when a UAV is being continuously power supplied from the ground power source, and that is why tethered UAV systems were developed. Tethered UAV systems are based on multicopters which can hover above the landing pad, or track its position in the case it is movable. The presented research is about the development of a large C3 class hexacopter having a maximal payload of about 1 kg, and takeoff mass of 16 kg, which was tested in maritime conditions during the ferry’s cruise. The main purpose of the hexacopter is the continuous observation of the area ahead of a vessel to detect and localize obstacles in the water. During experimental tests critical phases of flight were identified, the AC-DC power supply unit as well as the power cord unwinder were tested, and the power taken by six BLDC motors was registered. The obtained results can be useful in future work on tethered UAV systems used in windy maritime conditions.

The use of fiber optics as a tool for different kinds of geotechnical monitoring can become highly attractive and cost effective when compared to conventional instruments such as piezometers, inclinometers, among others. A single fiber optic cable may cover a larger monitoring area compared to conventional instrumentation, and the possibility of monitoring more than one physical quantity with the same fiber optic cable. Consulting the literature, it is possible to find several different examples where distributed fiber optic systems are being used. For the use of any sensor, a calibration curve is required. In the case of strain sensors, calibration is required to derive strain values from the frequency measurement quantity. However, fiber optic sensor cable manufacturers often do not provide their own calibration parameters and consult the values in specialized literature, which can result in monitoring errors. In this context, this article presents a bench adjusted for tests on single mode fiber optic cables, as well as results of tensile tests aimed at defining the function of strain variations of two different optical fiber cables, manufactured by different companies, using two different distributed interrogators. This paper also proposes a methodology for calibrating of the fiber optic cables deformation since the calibration parameters are provided by the cable manufacturers, which can result in errors depending on the application. It should be noted that there are few manufacturers of fiber optic cables aimed at application in civil engineering. Therefore, with the calibration methodology proposed in this paper, it is intended to transmit to the academic community the possibility of obtaining calibration parameters of any fiber optic cable, even those manufactured for telecommunications purposes and not only for cables manufactured with the intended use in civil engineering. Because of this fact, researchers will not be restricted to the acquisition of special cables for their applications. Based on the results, it was possible to conclude that the application of calibrated fiber optic sensors in experimental piles foundations is viable, in order to evaluate the load-displacement behavior of these elements, under different loading conditions.

(1) Background: This study aims to validate the use of Bloom's revised taxonomy as an instrument for the design of assessment tests; (2) Methods: A validation has been carried out by external judges, as well as by teachers and students, validating the instrument by means of Aiken's V; (3) Results: Judges, teachers and students consider Bloom's revised taxonomy as an effective tool for the design of assessment tests; (4) Conclusions: Using Bloom's revised taxonomy as a model for designing assessment tests promotes learning.