Background/Objectives: Biallelic pathogenic variants in the CEP290 gene are typically associated with severe, early-onset inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) in both syndromic and non-syndromic forms. This study highlights the phenotypic variability of CEP290-related non-syndromic IRDs, focusing on two siblings with biallelic CEP290 variants. One sibling presents with a milder phenotype, expanding the known spectrum of CEP290-related IRDs and emphasizing the importance of personalized clinical monitoring; Methods: Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was used to identify CEP290 pathogenic variants in the siblings. Comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluations were performed to assess the severity and progression of retinal degeneration; Results: Both siblings were found to carry compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in CEP290, inherited in trans. Clinical evaluations revealed significantly preserved retinal function in the sister, whereas the brother exhibited a more aggressive and progressive retinal dystrophy; Conclusions: This study expands the phenotypic spectrum of non-syndromic CEP290-related IRDs, demonstrating that biallelic CEP290 variants can result in a wide range of severity, from mild to severe. These findings highlight the need for personalized monitoring and tailored management strategies in CEP290-related IRDs.

This work presents an innovative tri-generation system for the simultaneous production of desalinated water, electrical energy, and cooling, aimed at addressing the growing challenges of water scarcity and climate change. The system integrates an 8-stage MSF process and a 6-effect MED process, along with an expander-generator that improves cycle efficiency by utilizing and reintroducing steam within the desalination stages. A parametric study was conducted using ASPEN PLUS to evaluate the system’s performance. The analysis showed that the system operates over a broader pressure and temperature range than conventional MED systems, from 28.3 to 0.8 kPa and from 68 to 4°C, thanks to a dual ejector-condensation process. In cogeneration mode, the system achieves a PR of 12.06 and an RR of 54%0.54, producing 67,219.2 L/day of desalinated water and reducing electrical consumption by 12.03%. In tri-generation mode, it achieves a PR of 17.81 and an RR of 0.80%, with a cooling capacity of 1225 kW (COP of 3.278), producing 99,273.6 L/day of desalinated water while reducing electrical consumption by 3.69%. This system offers an efficient solution to meet the growing water and energy needs of coastal communities, combining water desalination, energy production, and cooling in a single integrated process.

This work aims to verify whether the continuum mechanics assumption holds for the numerical simulation of a typical sample delivery system in Serial Femtosecond Crystallography (SFX). Knudsen numbers were calculated based on the numerical simulation results of helium flow through the gas-focused liquid sheet nozzle into the vacuum chamber, representing the upper limit of Knudsen number for such systems. The analysed flow is considered steady, compressible and laminar. The numerical results are mesh-independent, with a Grid Convergence Index significantly lower than 1 % for global and local analysis. The study is based on an improved definition of the numerical Knudsen number, a combination of cell Knudsen number and physical Knudsen number. In the analysis, no-slip boundary and low-pressure boundary slip conditions are compared. No significant differences are observed. The study justifies using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis for SFX sample delivery systems based on the assumption of continuum mechanics.

Background/Objectives: Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) represent medical conditions having causes that can range from genetic determinations to various risk factors, having potential life-threatening complications, the familial TAA (FTAA) being a cluster of non-syndromic thoracic aortic aneurysms. This review aims to emphasize the importance of genetic testing in patients diagnosed with thoracic aortic aneurysms, the genetic implications accounting for roughly 20% of these cases. The reported case presents a patient who was genetically tested 10 years after a Bentall procedure, which was performed for acute DeBakey type I aortic dissection developed in her second pregnancy, when the patient started presenting recurrent prolonged febrile syndrome. She was tested positive for a missense variant in the actin alpha-2 (ACTA2) gene, in heterozygous status, but also serological tests revealed the presence of an infection with Coxiella burnetii. Methods: For a better understanding of both conditions, our research was conducted on two directions, one reviewing the literature on patients with Coxiella burnetii blood culture-negative infective endocarditis (BCNIE) and the other one, focusing on patients having familial thoracic aortic aneurysm (FTAA) due to ACTA2 mutation. This review incorporates studies found on PubMed and ResearchGate up to August 2024. Conclusions: BCNIE represents a condition with several diagnosis challenges and may lead to severe complications if timely treatment is not initiated. Also, diagnosing FTAA requires more frequent genetic testing, enabling a better follow-up and management.

The tight sandstone gas of the Upper Paleozoic in the Ordos Basin has become a key field for increasing reserves and production of natural gas in the basin. As a high-quality tight sandstone gas reservoir, the 8th member of the Shihezi Formation only has good gas production in the south of the basin. For this reason, the types of natural gas source rocks in the north and south of the Upper Paleozoic were summarized, and the main types of gas source rocks in the north and south were clarified. The sedimentary facies of the 8th member of the Shihezi Formation and the Shanxi Formation were analyzed. The results show that the main gas-producing source rock in the northern part of the basin is coal rock, and the main gas-producing source rock in the southern part of the basin is dark mudstone. The Permian Shanxi Formation in the northern part of the basin mainly develops the delta front, which provides good conditions for the development of coal and rock. Compared with the northern Shanxi Formation, the Permian Shanxi Formation in the southern Ordos Basin mainly develops marine facies and marine-continental transitional facies, and the coal seam is not created. Therefore, the natural gas produced by the coal of the Shanxi Formation can easily migrate to the good reservoir in the 8th member of the box, which is also the reason for the difference in the enrichment of tight sandstone gas in the north and south of the Ordos Basin.

Cardiovascular surgeries, though lifesaving, can lead to complications requiring further interventions, including amputations. This study uses Sankey diagrams, Sunburst plots, and Icicle plots to analyze treatment pathways in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), focusing on those that lead to amputation versus those that do not. We found that non-amputation outcomes commonly involve anti-platelet and lipid-lowering medications, while amputation pathways, although less frequent, often share similar initial treatments but diverge later, suggesting areas for early intervention. These visualizations highlight patterns in patient care and emphasize the importance of tailored treatment strategies to reduce amputations, offering insights to predict likely outcomes based on treatment sequences.

In slope engineering, the foundation grooves of slope protection gird beams are mostly excavated manually. However, manual excavation presents problems, such as low construction efficiency, uneven groove bottoms, inconsistent cross-section groove widths, and curved groove axis, which reduces the quality of cast-in-place grid beams or complicates the installation of prefabricated grid beams. To address these issues, a mechanized grooving device for slope protection grid beams has been developed and successfully applied in the project. The grooving device is composed of interlocking dual spiral cutter heads, a mechanism for the groove width and depth adjustment, a cutter head working platform, a platform azimuth adjuster, a cutter head sliding mechanism, a hydraulic motor, a hydraulic power system and a platform anchoring mechanism. It can be used to groove on soil and strongly weathered rock slopes at different slope angles, and the foundation grooves of slope protection gird beams of different depths and widths can be carved according to the design requirements. Moreover, the grooved trenches feature flat bottoms, consistent widths, and straight axis, making it easy to install prefabricated grid beams and greatly improving the quality of cast-in-place grid beams. According to the construction statistics of a slope project in Guangdong, the grooving speeds of the grooving device on the slope of soil and strongly weathered rock are about 1.5m/min and 0.5m/min respectively, which greatly improves the construction efficiency and quality.

The polymerization mechanism of para-methoxystyrene catalyzed by cationic α-diimine palladium complexes with various ancillary ligands was rigorously examined using density functional theory. In the classical methyl-based α-diimine palladium complex [{(2,6-iPr2C6H3)-N=C(Me)-C(Me)=N-2,6-iPr2C6H3)}PdMe]+ (A+), the 2,1-insertion of para-methoxystyrene is favored over the 1,2-insertion, both thermodynamically and kinetically, during the chain initiation step. The resulting thermodynamically favored η3-π-benzyl intermediates face a substantial energy barrier, yielding only trace amounts of polymer, as experimentally verified. In contrast, the dibenzobarrelene-based α-diimine palladium complex [{(2,6-iPr2C6H3)-N=C(R)-C(R)=N-2,6-iPr2C6H3)}PdMe]+ (R = dibenzobarrelene, B+) shows similar energy barriers for both 2,1- and 1,2-insertions. Continuous 2,1/2,1 or 2,1/1,2 insertions are impeded by excessive energy barriers. However, theoretical calculations reveal that the 1,2-insertion product can seamlessly transition into the chain propagation stage, producing a polymer with high 1,2-regioselectivity. The observed activity of complexes A+ or B+ towards para-methoxystyrene polymerization stems from the energy barrier differences between the 1,2- and 2,1-insertions, influenced by the steric hindrance from the ancillary ligands. Further investigation into the effects of steric hindrance on the chain initiation stage involved computational modeling of analogous complexes with increased steric bulk. These studies established a direct correlation between the energy barrier difference ∆∆G (1,2−2,1) and the van der Waals volume of the ancillary ligand. Larger van der Waals volumes correspond to reduced energy barrier differences, thus enhancing the regioselectivity for para-methoxystyrene polymerization. Moreover, the experimental inertness of complex B+ towards styrene polymerization is attributed to the formation of stable kinetic and thermodynamic 2,1-insertion intermediates, which obstruct further styrene monomer insertion due to an extremely high reactive energy barrier. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanistic aspects and offer insights for designing new transition metal catalysts for the polymerization of para-alkoxystyrenes.

Conventional deduplication systems face critical challenges such as excessive write amplification, high read/write latency, and sub-optimal storage utilization. These limitations often undermine the performance benefits of deduplication by slowing down I/O acknowledgements, due to amplified deduplication I/Os, excessive data chunk replication and strict consistency requirements. To address these issues, we present Speed-Dedup, a novel deduplication framework that employs a deduplicated primary - semi deduplicated replica object approach. This strategy reduces write amplification by restricting deduplication to the primary object while maintaining a semi-deduplicated replica object used for immediate read/write acknowledgements, thus enhancing I/O latency and storage efficiency. Speed-Dedup also replaces traditional strong consistency models with eventual consistency, allowing for non-blocking read operations and improving overall system throughput. Experimental results demonstrate that Speed-Dedup significantly outperforms traditional methods like GRATE and CAO, showing up to 21% improvement in I/O performance under low deduplication ratios and maintaining 14% or more gains under higher ratios. Additionally, write amplification is substantially reduced, and latency improves by over 100%, with faster recovery times during system failures. These findings highlight the effectiveness of Speed-Dedup as a scalable and efficient solution.

Coastal flooding is already one of the most dangerous and costly natural hazards that humanity faces globally and yet it will become even more frequent and challenging to manage because of climate change and other factors. In densely populated estuarine settings, a storm surge barrier is often an attractive and economical solution for flood protection. There are currently many storm surge barriers in operation around the world protecting tens of millions of people and trillions of pounds of property and infrastructure. However, with accelerating rates of sea-level rise being observed, along with changes in storminess, tides and river discharge, surge barriers are closing increasingly often, and closures are now occurring in months when they typically have not occurred in the past. Increased use of surge barriers in the future has critical implications for barrier management, maintenance and operation. In this paper we develop, validate and apply a novel statistical approach to assess how the number of storm surge barrier closures will likely increase in the future and change in frequency throughout the year, that can be used for different climate change scenarios and accounting for forecast errors in water levels. As representative case study examples, we focus on the Eastern Scheldt storm surge Barrier in the Netherlands and the Thames Barrier in the UK. We validate the method, demonstrating it accurately predicts past closure statistics for the Eastern Scheldt and the Thames Barriers over the 38 and 42 years they have been operational, respectively. Then we apply the method to estimate the potential future numbers of barrier closures considering a range of different projections of sea-level rise, along with changes in storm surges, tides and river discharge. We show that there is very likely to be a rapid acceleration in the number of barrier closures in the future, dominated by sea-level rise, with strong influence of the 18.6-year lunar nodal cycle, at both case study barriers. Finally, we illustrate how the tool can be used to help guide future barrier management, maintenance, operation and upgrade/replacement planning and inform adaptative flood management approaches. The tool we have developed could easily be extended to other storm surge barriers around the world.

Understanding the factors that contribute to slope failures, such as soil saturation, is essential for mitigating rainfall-induced landslides. Cost-effective capacitive soil moisture sensors have the po-tential to be widely implemented across multiple sites for landslide early warning systems. How-ever, these sensors need to be calibrated for specific applications to ensure high accuracy in readings. In this study, a soil-specific calibration was performed in a laboratory setting to integrate the soil moisture sensor with an automatic monitoring system using the Internet of Things (IoT). This re-search aims to evaluate a low-cost soil moisture sensor (SKU:SEN0193) and develop calibration equations for the purpose of slope model experiment under artificial rainfall condition using silica sand. The results indicate that a polynomial function is the best fit, with a coefficient of determi-nation (R²) ranging from 0.92 to 0.98 and a root mean square error (RMSE) ranging from 1.17 to 2.67. The calibration equation was validated through slope model experiments, with soil samples taken from the model after the experiment finished. Overall, the moisture content readings from the sensors showed approximately a 10% deviation from the actual moisture content. The findings suggest that the cost-effective capacitive soil moisture sensors has the potential to be used for the development of landslide early warning system

This paper presents an effective Levenberg-Marquardt procedure for modeling accelerometers used in the energy industry. The proposed procedure applies the results of accelerometer calibration methods commonly used in engineering practice using stationary or portable calibrators. These methods are extended here to more advanced solutions, which will constitute the basis for further research (both practical and theoretical) into improving the accuracy of accelerometers, which play an extremely important diagnostic function in the operation of machines, devices and the wide range of components used in the energy industry.

Background: Congenital coronary artery anomalies (CAAs) are a significant cause of sudden cardiac death and a key factor in determining athletes’ eligibility for competitive sports. Their prevalence varies with diagnostic modalities and may present as asymptomatic or with life-threatening ischemic or arrhythmic events. This case series highlights the diverse manifestations of CAAs and the clinical approaches used to determine sports eligibility. Cases description: five competitive athletes with different CAAs are presented. These cases include anomalous coronary origins, intramyocardial bridges, and coronary fistulas. Diagnostic tools, including coronary CT angiography (CCTA), cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and stress tests, were essential in evaluating these anomalies and determining treatment strategies. In some cases, such as intramyocardial bridges, surgical intervention was necessary, while others required conservative management or exclusion from competitive sports. Conclusions: CAAs require individualized care based on risk stratification through advanced imaging techniques and functional assessment. Surgical interventions are reserved for high-risk anomalies, while others may be managed conservatively. Early detection and tailored management are crucial for ensuring athletes’ safety, and ongoing research is needed to optimize long-term outcomes.

Water containing fluoride concentrations greater than 1.5 mg/L is a public health problem. Adsorption on activated carbon is one of the most commonly used methods for removing elevated fluoride concentrations in water. This research was tested the parameters of fluoride adsorption on four modified activated carbons with nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide. Adsorption properties includes initial fluoride concentrations (2-40 mg/L), pH (4-9), dosage of activated carbon (2-20 g/L), contact time (15-360 min) and temperature (25-45°C). The research results showed a decrease in the proportion of adsorbed fluorides by increasing their initial concentration, while an increase in temperature had a positive effect on the proportion of removed fluorides. The optimal pH value of adsorption at which the largest amount of fluoride is adsorbed is from 4 to 6. Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherms were used to determine the adsorption mechanism. The experimental data showed the best agreement with the Freundlich model at all temperatures, while the pseudo second-order kinetic model best described the adsorption rate. An increase in the adsorption temperature had a positive effect on the adsorption properties of activated carbons for all tested parameters.

Community resilience represents an important concept in the comprehensive approach to disaster management. It is assumed that optimal community resilience can mitigate negative impacts and enable adaptation, thereby reducing the negative consequences of future disasters. The measurement of community resilience to disasters has advanced over the past two decades, primarily through the use of indicators that measure community resilience indices. The Baseline Resilience Indicators for Communities (BRIC) represent an increasingly popular and frequently used quantitative method for measuring community resilience indices to disasters. This literature review was conducted to examine and assess the use and adaptation of the BRIC method in measuring community resilience. The review comprehensively analyzes relevant scientific papers, extracting and synthesizing the most important findings from the studies, which provided the necessary data to meet the objectives of the literature review. A total of 37 relevant studies were identified for analysis in the review. The indicators used were examined, including their selection, grouping, and evaluation procedures, as well as the calculation of the appropriate index. The review also covered the method of data collection needed to measure the impact of indicators on resilience, as well as the shortcomings of this process. The measurement of community resilience to disasters is a contemporary issue, with several detected shortcomings in the process itself. The need to adapt the BRIC method to the local context has been established. Improving the process of determining indicators and measuring indices would lead to broader use of the method in efforts to reduce disaster risk and enhance resilience to disasters.

Some well-known metrics used as models of static non-rotating black holes are considered. These are the Reissner-Nordström-de Sitter, Bardeen-Kiselev and McVittie models. A significant difference between them in how adequately they can describe or be the basis for describing observed astronomical objects is demonstrated. A simple method for constructing new models of static non-rotating black holes is presented. It has been shown that a region of gravitational repulsion may exist around the horizon of a Bardeen-Kiselev black hole.

Abstract Background andAims: During liver transplantation, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence remains a critical challenge for patient survival. Targeted therapies, such as Sorafenib and Regorafenib, have been utilized to manage relapsed HCC in this unique setting. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Sorafenib and Regorafenib in patients with HCC who experienced recurrence after liver transplantation. We focused on survival outcomes, treatment responses, and the management of side effects in this patient group. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 73 patients who experienced HCC recurrence post-liver transplantation between 2012 and 2022, across 11oncology centers in Turkey. Patients were categorised according to Child-Pugh classification and treated with Sorafenib as first-line therapy and Regorafenib in case of progression. Survival rates were analysed by Kaplan-Meier method and risk factors were evaluated by Cox regression analysis. Results: Of the 73 patients included in the study, 62 were male (84,9%) and 11 were female (15,1%) with a mean age of 61,5 ± 10,9 years. All patients received sorafenib as first-line treatment. Among patients who experienced progression with sorafenib or discontinued treatment due to toxicity, 45,2% (n=33) continued treatment with regorafenib. The median progression-free survival (PFS1) time with Sorafenib was 5,6 months and the one-year survival rate was 24,3%. The median progression-free survival (PFS2) time with Regorafenib, which was administered as second-line treatment, was also calculated as 5,9 months. Overall survival (OS) duration was determined as 35,9 months. The most common side effects associated with both drugs included fatigue, hand-foot syndrome and hypertension. Significantly better survival outcomes were shown in the Child-Pugh A group compared to other patients. Conclusion: These results suggest that Sorafenib and Regorafenib treatments offer a survival advantage in patients with relapsed HCC post-transplantation. However, individualized treatment strategies and close follow-up are crucial for optimizing outcomes. Further studies are needed to refine therapeutic protocols and enhance the care of this specific patient group.

Background: The increasing prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium infections with macrolide resistance causing high azithromycin failure rates is a major concern internationally. In response to this challenge, diagnostics that simultaneously detect M. genitalium and genetic markers for macrolide resistance enable the therapy to be individually tailored, i.e. to implement resistance-guided therapy (RGT). Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate patient treatment outcomes of M. genitalium therapy guided by a macrolide-resistance assay in Bulgaria; Methods: Consecutively referred M. genitalium infection cases (n=17) were analyzed for macrolide-resistance mutations (MRMs) and specific antimicrobial treatment was recommended accordingly (MRMs-negative infections received azithromycin and MRMs-positive received moxifloxacin). Treatment outcome based on test-of-cure was recorded and treatment failure rates and time to microbiological cure were compared with treatment outcomes in patients treated before the implementation of RGT; Results: Among patients given RGT (n=17), the overall treatment failure rate was 1/17 (5.9%). This was significantly lower than the rate (47.6%) observed in patients treated pre-RGT (p=0.002). The time to microbiological cure was 29.4 days (CI 24.5 – 34.3) compared to 45.2 days (CI 36.5 – 53.7) pre-RGT (p=0.001); Conclusions: Implementation of M. genitalium diagnostics with macrolide-resistance detection improved treatment outcomes in Bulgaria with significantly lower treatment failure rates and reduced time to microbiological cure. In light of limited treatment options and concerns about their decreasing efficacy in response to misuse and overuse, diagnostic macrolide-resistance assay is critical to direct appropriate first-line treatment, to maintain the efficacy of antimicrobial treatment (antibiotic stewardship) and to minimize the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

This study evaluates the effectiveness of adaptive binaural beamforming in a realistic cafeteria noise environment. The motivation stems from the common challenge faced by hearing aid users in such environments, where communication often demands significant mental effort. The study employed a combination of behavioural, neurophysiological, and self-reported measures to assess speech intelligibility and listening effort. Results showed that the adaptive binaural beamformer improved speech-in-noise intelligibility at signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) yielding 80% and 95% intelligibility. Additionally, when this technology was enabled, listening effort was reduced across various metrics: faster reaction times on a dual task, decreased pre-stimulus alpha power (8-12 Hz), indicating less inhibition was needed, and increased alpha power during the encoding and retention phases, consistent with greater working memory load due to improved intelligibility. Self-reports indicated lower perceived effort in the more challenging SNR condition. The use of realistic background noise enhances the ecological validity of the findings, contributing to a better understanding of how this hearing aid technology performs in real-world listening environments. Overall, the study demonstrates that adaptive binaural beamforming can ease the cognitive burden on users in noisy, everyday environments, thereby enhancing their overall auditory experience.

This study investigates the impact of water stress on grapevines, specifically examining the role of rootstocks and aquaporins. Two experiments on potted plants were conducted in central Chile during the summer, under conditions of high water demand, involving various rootstock genotypes and combinations of Cabernet Sauvignon (CS) grafted onto rootstocks. Significant differences were observed among plants in terms of stem water potential, stomatal conductance, and growth rate. Notably, the CS/CS combination consistently displayed the slowest growth rate, regardless of the irrigation treatment. The study also analyzed the expression levels of plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs) and tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIPs) aquaporins in the leaves of grafted plants. Specifically, VvPIP2;2 aquaporins showed reduced expression after 14 days without irrigation, whereas VvTIP1;1 and VvTIP2;1 expression levels correlated positively with gs responses in grafted plants, suggesting their role in modulating water content in leaves under water stress. TIP aquaporins likely play a significant role in the differential responses of CS plants towards nearly isohydric or anisohydric behaviour. The CS/CS combination exhibited near isohydric behavior, correlating with lower TIP aquaporin expression, while the combination of CS onto 1103P and 101-14 showed higher expression, indicating anisohydric behavior. The findings suggest that grafted plants are more resilient to water stress, supporting the idea that rootstocks can mitigate the effects of water stress on the scion

Chaotic systems can exhibit completely different behaviors given only slightly different initial conditions, yet it is possible to synchronize them through appropriate coupling. A wide variety of behaviors – complete chaos, complete synchronization, phase synchronization, etc – across a variety of systems have been identified but rely on systems’ phase space portraits, which suppress important distinctions between very different behaviors and require access to the differential equations or the full time-series. In this paper, we introduce the Difference Time Series Peaks Complexity (DTSPC) algorithm. This uses ordinal patterns created from sampled time-series, focusing on the the behavior of ringing patterns in the difference time series to quantitatively distinguish a variety of synchronization behaviors based on the entropic complexity of the populations of various patterns. We present results from the paradigmatic case of coupled Lorenz systems, both identical and non-identical and across a range of parameters and show that this technique captures the diversity of possible synchronization, including non-monotonicity as a function of parameter as well as complicated boundaries between different regimes. Thus this ordinal pattern entropy analysis algorithm reveals and quantifies the complexity of chaos synchronization dynamics, and in particular captures transitional behaviors between different regimes.

Background. A direct clinical and morphological comparison of non-COVID myocarditis than was diagnosed before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and post-COVID myocarditis has not been performed so far. Purpose: to compare morphological activity, toll-like receptors expression and response to the immunosuppressive therapy in patients with non-COVID and post-COVID myocarditis. Metodhs. Seventy-seven patients (52 male and 25 female, 48.7±11.7 y.o.) with biopsy proven myocarditis, NYHA class 2 or more heart failure, ejection fraction (EF) <45% were included. A history of myocardial infarction, verified cardiomyopathies, systemic autoimmune diseases, viral DNA in the myocardium, except parvovirus B19, were exclusion criteria. The right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy with hematoxylin and eosin, Van Gieson stains, PCR for virus (herpes viruses, parvovirus B19, adeno-, enteroviruses and SARS-CoV-2), immunohistochemical study for CD3, CD45, CD68, CD20, nucleocapsid / spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 and in addition toll-like receptors (TLR) type 4 and 9 expression (in 38 patients) were performed. The steroids (methylprednisolone 24-40 mg per day), azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil were prescribed. The mean follow-up was 16 [6; 30] month. Results. In 45 patients, myocarditis was diagnosed before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (giant-cell in one case and lymphocytic in the others). Other 32 patients had post-COVID myocarditis positive for RNA or/and proteins of SARS-CoV-2 (giant-cell in one case, eosinophilic in three cases and lymphocytic in the others). There were no differences in age, NYHA class, CRP and anti-heart antibodies level, echocardiographic parameters (mean EF 30.2±7.8 vs 28.7±6.7%), parvovirus B19 positivity (22 vs 34%), doses of methylprednisolone (24-40 mg/day) and death / transplantation rate (11.1 vs 9.4%). Differences between non-COVID vs post-COVID myocarditis focused on higher CD3, CD 45*, TLR 4 (4+ vs 6+), TLR 9 (0 vs 2+) expression and better response to therapy [10% or more increase in EF in 53 vs 86%* of patients, mean EF (43.9±12.3 vs 49.8±7.6%*) by the end of follow-up], *p<0.05. Conclusion. Post-COVID myocarditis is characterised by different morphological types, higher morphological activity, tendency to higher TLR expression and the best response to the immunosupressive therapy in comparison with non-COVID myocarditis.

Biomaterials have assumed a decisive role in modern medicine by enabling significant advancements in medical care practices. These materials are designed to interact with biological systems, offering substantial solutions for various medical needs. In this research, bioceramic materials consisting of a bioactive hydroxyapatite-based matrix with Ti nanoparticles, were processed as promising materials. These bioceramics were obtained using mechanical milling, uniaxial pressing, and sintering as powder processing techniques. This study evaluates the effect of Ti additions on the structural, electrochemical, and mechanical properties of the hydroxyapatite ceramic material. Titanium additions were about 1, 2 and 3 wt%. The experimental results demonstrate that the biocomposite's structure has two hexagonal phases: one corresponding to the hydroxyapatite matrix and the other to the Ti as a reinforced phase. The biomaterials' microstructure is completely fine and homogeneous. The biomaterial reinforced with 1wt. % Ti exhibits the best mechanical behavior. In this context, Electrochemical tests reveal that bio-ceramics can achieve stability through an ion adsorption mechanism when exposed to a physiological electrolyte. Bioceramics, particularly those containing 1%Ti, develop their bioactivity through the formation a high-density hydroxide film during a porous sealing process at potentials around −782.71 mV, with an ionic charge transfer of 0.43x10^-9 A/cm². Finally, this biofilm behaves as a capacitor Cc = 0.18 nF/cm², resulting in lower ionic charge transfer resistance (Rct = 1.526x106 Ω-cm²) at the interface. This mechanism promotes the material’s biocompatibility for bone integration as an implant material.

Reducing atmospheric emissions through the introduction of circular economy principles is one of the current tasks of sustainable regional development. The research purpose is to study the impact of the actions taken by Karachaganak Petroleum Operating B.V. (KPO) in order to reduce air pollution, and basing on it, to evaluate the forming potential of the circulating economy in one of the biggest regions of Kazakhstan in which KPO is operating. Oil and gas production activities of the company is related to air pollution of the region. The study was conducted using methods of econometric modeling, statistical and comparative analyses. The study’s value is determined by its interdisciplinary approach, which made it possible to combine environmental and economic criteria for sustainable regional development with the features of emissions and waste management technologies in industry. Studying the work experience and analyzing the impact of KPO on the development of the region in the period 2012-2022 made it possible to construct a matrix of the restorative potential of the circular economy of the region. A model for the formation of a circular economy is proposed, which is based on the introduction of innovations, investments in environmental protection, the use of the best available technologies for reinjecting gas into the reservoir, increasing energy efficiency, recycling of waste, which made it possible to significantly (2.2 times) reduce the amount of air pollution in region. According to the forecast model (2024-2028), it was determined that in case of maintaining independent indicators’ certain dynamic of development, the level of atmospheric emissions by KPO could be reduced by 2 times. The results of the scientific work contain statements proving that further researches on the problems of reducing atmospheric pollution within the framework of the formation of a circular economy are quite perspective and promising. The results of the study might be interesting and used when implementing measures to manage air quality in the region by managers, heads of organizations, state and local authorities, and researchers interested in promoting the ESG concept of sustainable development.

Protein-lipid interactions demonstrate important regulatory roles in the function of membrane proteins. Nevertheless, due to the semi-liquid nature and heterogeneity of biological membranes, dissecting the details of such interactions at high resolutions continues to pose a major challenge to experimental biophysical techniques. Computational techniques such as molecular dynamics (MD) offer an alternative approach with both temporally and spatially high resolutions. Here we present an extensive series of MD simulations focused on the inner membrane protein YidC (PDB: 6AL2) from Escherichia coli, a key insertase responsible for the integration and folding of membrane proteins. Notably, we observed rare lipid fenestration events, where lipids fully penetrate the vestibule of YidC, providing new insights into the lipid-mediated regulation of protein insertion mechanisms. Our findings highlight the direct involvement of lipids in modulating the greasy slide of YidC and suggest that lipids enhance the local flexibility of the C1 domain, which is crucial for recruiting substrate peptides. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of how lipid-protein interactions facilitate the functional dynamics of membrane protein insertases, with implications for broader studies of membrane protein biology.

The adaptive implementation of the Monte Carlo Method (AMCM) has been applied to optimize the calibration uncertainty of a positive displacement meter against a standard tank in an ISO 17025 accredited volume laboratory. These meters are used for custody transfer in liquid hydrocarbon logistics where any reduction in the uncertainty estimation may have an important economic impact. Several innovations are proposed when applying AMCM; regulation of AMCM convergence by applying the Student's t-distribution, validation of repeatability and filtering of outliers by performing 50 iterations of the AMCM, and characterization of the measurand's Probability Density Function (PDF) which results in a Flatten Gaussian. This work proves that GUM method does not assign the correct PDF. The uncertainty estimation is reduced 7.1 % compared to GUM method.

: The present paper tackles the important issue of tensile ultimate strength of ceramic matrix composites, using a multiscale approach. The ultimate strength is investigated at the successive increasing length scales inherent to 2D woven SiC/SiC composites, i.e. single filaments, fiber tow, minicomposites reinforced with a single tow, and 2D woven composite. First experimental results on tensile behavior under strain-controlled conditions are summarized for tows, minicomposites and composites. Then, models of tow ultimate failure under controlled force and strain are presented. A criterion of tow failure is developed for filament fracture initiation and then propagation based on applied stress and on filament strength gradient. The model of ultimate failure of minicomposite under strain-controlled condition is based on the strength of filaments in the presence of matrix cracks and the overstress induced by interactions of broken filaments and the matrix. The variability of ultimate strengths of filaments, minicomposites and composites at various gauge lengths is described by linear p-quantile diagrams which indicates that the data follow normal distribution function. The contribution of structural effects to variability of composite and minicomposite strength under strain-controlled loading is analyzed. Their dependence on specimen size is related to reproducibility of critical flaw population and structural effects.

The capability of the complex fuzzy sets plays a valuable role to resolve many real life problems. In this paper, we present the compositions of complex fuzzy relations by using the idea of implication operators and max-product compositions of complex fuzzy relations and illustrate these compositions with concrete examples. The converse of these newly invented triangular compositions in terms of compositions of the converse relations are also defined. We also study the interactions with union and intersection. The main goal of this article to present a new technique to enhance medical diagnostic model that can assist to increase the features of healthcare systems. We utilize these compositions to determine the diseases of patients on the basis of intensity of symptoms.

Background/Objective: In this study, for the first time, we examined and compared the sensitivity of four patient-derived cutaneous melanoma cell lines to alpha radiation in vitro and analyzed it in view of cell nucleus area and the formation of double strand breaks (DSB). Melanoma cells sensitivity to alpha radiation was compared to photon radiation effects. Furthermore, we compared the sensitivity of the melanoma cells to squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: Human melanoma cell lines YDFR.C, DP.C, M12.C and M16.C, and the squamous cell carcinoma cell line, CAL 27, were irradiated in-vitro using Americium-241 as alpha-particle source. Cells were irradiated with doses of 0 to 2.8 gray (Gy). Cell viability, DNA DSB and nuclear size were measured. Results: 1. Alpha radiation caused death and proliferation arrest of all four melanoma cell lines, but inter-tumor heterogeneity was observed. 2. The most sensitive cell line (DP.C) had a significantly larger nucleus area (408 mM²) and the highest mean number of DSB per cell (9.61) compared to more resistant cells. 3. The most resistant cell, M16.C, had a much lower nucleus area (236.99 mM²) and DSB per cell (6.9). 4. Alpha radiation was more lethal than photon radiation for all melanoma cells. 5. The SCC cell, CAL 27, was more sensitive to alpha radiation than all melanoma cells, yet, had a similar number of DSB (6.67) and nucleus size (175.49 mM²) as the more resistant cells. 6. The cytotoxic effect of alpha radiation was not affected by proliferation arrest after serum starvation. 7. Killing of cells by alpha radiation was marginally elevated by ATR or topoisomerase 1 inhibition. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that various human melanoma cells can be killed by alpha radiation but exhibit variance in sensitivity to alpha radiation. Alpha radiation applied using Intra-tumoral Diffusing alpha-emitters Radiation Therapy (Alpha DaRT) methodology may serve as an efficient treatment for human melanoma.

The emergence of vertebrates represents one of the most significant evolutionary transitions in animal history. The earliest definitive vertebrate fossils appear in the Lower Cambrian Period (approximately 525-520 million years ago), with Myllokunmingia fengjiaoa and Haikouichthys ercaicunensis from the Chengjiang biota of China being among the oldest known specimens. These early vertebrates evolved from chordate ancestors, likely similar to modern lancelets (amphioxus). The key transition occurred through the development of neural crest cells, a mineralized skeleton, and a more complex brain. The foundation for vertebrate origins was laid in the Pre-Cambrian with early chordates like Pikaia gracilens, which exhibited basic chordate characteristics. The early Cambrian period witnessed a rapid diversification of vertebrate forms, leading to the establishment of major vertebrate lineages, including both jawless (agnathan) and later jawed (gnathostome) groups.

In the context of the Bridge Electromagnetic Theory, a quantum-relativistic theory based on Maxwellian electromagnetism, it has recently been shown that the characteristics of a hydrogen atom can be obtained through an electron-proton orbital capture process forming a non-radial emitting dipolar electromagnetic source. The model structurally different to the Bohr-Sommerfeld and Schrödinger models has now been deepened and completed by testing it on the properties of hydrogen and deuterium atoms and of helium and lithium in hydrogenoid form. These last two atoms are of cosmological interest as they are the heaviest elements produced by electron capture in the early universe. The theoretical results obtained regarding the atomic structure and spectra are in excellent agreement with the observational data by suggesting the implicit correctness of the model. It is also highlighted that the electron-nucleus interaction is influenced on an isotopic basis as a function of the value of the inertial mass of the nuclei considered.

The CT (computed tomography) scanner has been used for many years now not only for medical measurements, but also in many industries, mostly for tasks such as defectoscopy, measuring sheet thickness, checking the joining of materials, but also for measuring the geometry of individual components. It is a good complement to coordinate contact and non-contact measurements for intra-structural measurements and inaccessible places. The variety of materials, however, makes it very difficult to select individual CT parameters. In this paper, a curve for selecting the maximum and minimum voltage of the lamp depending on the density of a given material has been determined and an interpolation polynomial (1d third-degree polynomial) has been used, by defining 3rd-degree glued functions (cubic spline) to determine intermediate voltage values to a given material density, so as to determine full data ranges. This approach will facilitate the work of selecting scanning parameters for nondestructive testing, as this is a difficult process and sometimes consumes half of the measurement time. Work is underway at the Accredited Coordinate Metrology Laboratory to develop a multi-criteria matrix for selecting CT measurement parameters for measurement accuracy.

Addressing the potential conflicts between momentum conservation laws and retardation requires a comprehensive understanding of both principles within the context of specific physical systems and theoretical frameworks. Indeed it was claimed that a relativistic engine is impossible due to the lack of linear momentum conservation. The purpose of this work is to settle this issue by demonstrating that linear momentum is indeed conserved for a charged retarded field engine. Earlier research has already introduced the concept of a charged retarded engine. The system gains mechanical momentum and energy when it is subjected to a total force for a certain amount of time. If retardation is taken into account a total force is present even if no external force affects the system, thus momentum seems to appear from nowhere violating the law of momentum conservation. However, momentum is indeed conserved as the present work demonstrates. We present a mathematical proof that the momentum is conserved in a time dependent electromagnetic retarded motor. The expression of field momentum comes out to be equal and opposite to the mechanical momentum gained by the material system as obtain in . This calculation of charged relativistic engine is an extension work of papers published earlier , which explored a non-charged relativistic engine. We prove that the total momentum in a relativistic motor including both material and electromagnetic linear momentum is indeed conserved as dictated by Noether’s theorem.

Gastric cancer is among the prevalent types of cancer that cause high mortality rates globally, due to which worrisome new therapeutic approaches cannot be ruled out. The present review aims at providing an extensive overview of the recent development in the field of immunotherapy for gastric cancer, with a special reference to exosomes and their potential for regulating tumor progression. In this review, we provide a stepwise approach towards understanding of the status of knowledge of exosomes in intercellular communication comprehensively discussing biochemical contents, immune modulation, drug resistance and disease progression. Inclusive in our search strategy are the articles published in the last 15 years, and using keywords such as “exosomes,” “immunotherapy,” and “gastric cancer.” For this systematic review, two rounds of article filtering were conducted before reviewing of the articles and their findings thoroughly. This field’s specific areas of focus embrace the functionalities attached to the exosome-associated microRNAs, processes on which the exosome signalling depends on, and the utilization of non-tumor cell-derived exosomes in the tumor microenvironments. Combining these findings, this review seeks to systematically identify and discuss the roles of exosomes in biomarkers and novel targets for GC treatment. In conclusion, our current study supports further exploration of the application of exosomal biology to enhance immunotherapeutic approaches in gastric cancer treatment.’

Stress protein HSP70 administered exogenously demonstrated high potential as efficient adjuvant in anti-tumor immune response. To enhance the antigen-presenting activity and stability of pure HSP70 we suggest here its incorporation in nanometer vesicles made of plant juice. Earlier we found such packing in grapefruit-derived extracellular vesicles (GEV) was able to store the protein with no loss of its major function, chaperonic activity. To check whether HSP70 in composition of GEV can elicit immune response we purified the vesicles, loaded them with recombinant human HSP70 (GEV-HSP70) and after characterization of the protein quantity and activity injected in Balb/c mice with growing CT-26 colon carcinoma tumor. The injections course reduced the tumor growth rate by 40% and expand the life span by 50%; the effect was corroborated with lowering of TGF-b1 and Il-10 levels in blood; this is comparable to the effect of soluble HSP70 with a concentration 25 times higher than that of GEV-HSP70. In vitro analysis of immunomodulatory activity of GEV-HSP70 showed that anti-tumor response in GEV-HSP70-treated mice was associated with the accumulation of CD8+ cells. These results demonstrate high feasibility and efficacy of novel HSP70-based technique in activation of the specific response to colon tumors.

It is desirable to upgrade previous evolutionary theories, which have remained incomplete and controversial for decades. Here we employ the concept of carbon-based entities (CBEs), which include methane, amino acids, proteins, organisms, and other entities containing relatively many carbon atoms. We deduce the driving force, mechanisms, steps, modes, tempos of CBE evolution, through integration of biology, physics, and chemistry using logics for complex issues. We hence establish the Carbon-Based Evolutionary Theory (CBET). The CBET suggests that evolution is the increase in hierarchy, diversity, fitness of CBEs under natural selection and driven by thermodynamics due to the chemical effect of the thermodynamic features of the Earth on CBEs. It provides better explanations for life origin, macroevolution events, natural selection, sympatric speciation, and evolution tempos than previous evolutionary theories. It reveals the evolutionary basis of multiple important social notions, including diversity, collaboration, altruism, obeying rules, and proper increase in freedom. It refutes some wrong notions in thermodynamics, including negative entropy (negentropy) and that biological order is equal to thermodynamic order, which have misled many people. The CBET is supported by its deduction and application. It could be a rare bridge linking laws of thermodynamics, evolution of life, and development of human society, and could have great significance in various sciences.

The development of rapid analysis of human serum for the presence of allergen-specific IgE is currently important. Consequently, we developed two types of 3D protein biochips. The first one is a 3D hydrogel biochip containing hydrogel droplets with protein molecules (allergens, immunoglobulins and others). These droplets are disposed on elements consisting of short polymer brushes grafting from a surface of polybutylene terephthalate polymer. The immobilization of proteins was induced by short-wave UV radiation. On such a biochip, the kinetics of allergen-sIgE complex formation reached 70% of saturation for 6 hours. Also we developed a 3D brush microchip containing on the surface of a polyethylene terephthalate polymer the brush elements with protein molecules covalently immobilized by opening oxirane cycles by amino and thiol nucleophilic groups contained in proteins. In the case of 3D brush microchip the kinetics of allergen-sIgE complex formation reached 100% of saturation for 3 hours, and fluorescent signals were 2-3 times higher than those of the 3D hydrogel biochip. Thus, the comparative analysis revealed that 3D brush biochips are more useful for further studies of protein-protein interactions than 3D hydrogel ones.

A hallmark of eutherian pregnancy is its dependency on elevated progesterone levels for its entire length. This fact substantially affected the evolution of pregnancy and even the life history of eutherians. Progesterone synthesis by the ovarian corpus luteum, however, long predates all origins of vertebrate viviparity, which requires reconsidering the role of the corpus luteum and progesterone before and beyond placental mammals. Pregnancy originated repeatedly by co-opting the ancestral luteal phase of the ovarian cycle. Therefore, it represents a physiological equivalent and “serial homolog” of the nonpregnant luteal phase. Because of this relationship, we argue that understanding the origin and evolution of pregnancy can substantially benefit from examining the evolution and regulation of the corpus luteum during nonpregnancy. In the first part of this paper, we investigate what is known about the evolution of the corpus luteum and its changing regulation and function across vertebrates, covering both pregnant and nonpregnant cycles wherever possible. Studying pregnancy in the context of the nonpregnant cycle reveals the key evolutionary innovation that facilitated the characteristically long eutherian pregnancies: the regulatory decoupling of the pregnant and nonpregnant cycle, that is, the evolution of maternal recognition of pregnancy. Only after the two cycles became separately modifiable, could gestation length increase without deleteriously extending the time to the next fertile phase. In this review, we argue that, assuming selection for body size increase, the origin of MRP led to a punctuated increase of gestation length, which could imply that we overestimate pregnancy length in the eutherian ancestor when using conventional phylogenetic inference methods. Mechanistically, decoupling between cycles means that the progesterone-dominated phase in pregnancy is extended beyond that of nonpregnancy. In eutherians, this is achieved by extending the lifespan of progesterone-producing corpus luteum, providing additional corpora lutea, extraovarian sources of progesterone, or a combination of these. Alternatively, it can also be accomplished by shortening the nonpregnant cycle. The differences in underlying mechanisms for decoupling among the major eutherian lineages suggest that they originated independently, which leads us to conclude that eutherian gestation consists of parts that are not homologous across eutherians. Consequently, eutherian gestation length is not a homologous trait that can be productively compared across species directly. Finally, we find no evidence for an increase in gestational length due to maternal-fetal conflict. Rather, as long appreciated, body size explains a major portion of the variation in gestation length in eutherians. This suggests that the increase in eutherian gestation length was driven by the need to accommodate an increasing body size, a well-documented trend (Cope’s rule), once independent evolution of pregnant and non-pregnant cycles became possible.

Senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) is a particular expression profile portrayed by senescent cells, which includes the secretion of cytokines, proteases, and chemokines, among other signalling molecules, exerting great influence on local as well as systemic environment which participates in cell senescence, immunoregulation, angiogenesis, cell proliferation, tumor invasion, etc. We performed a clinic-pathological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis with the aim of studying the association between the different histological characteristics of craniopharyngioma, the effects of OMF exposure and its potential role in the induction of SASP. We observed that cells of the outer epithelium can secrete lipoproteins and glycoproteins into the external tumor environment, inducing an intense inflammatory response. Neoplastic cells protrude out of the tumor and are able to grow rapidly and form wet keratin, which calcifies afterward. This limited growth ability is acquired by interacting with the aforementioned growth factors, proinflammatory molecules, angioblast and fibroblast activation, angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and brain invasion, associated with glycoproteins secretion of tumor cells associated with SASP.

Ectomycorrhizal (EM) associations are essential symbiotic relationships that contribute significantly to the health and functioning of forest ecosystems. This review examines the biotic factors that influence EM associations, focusing on plant and fungal diversity, host specificity, and microbial interactions. Firstly, the diversity of host plants and ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) is discussed, highlighting how the richness of these organisms affects the formation and success of EM symbioses. Next, host specificity is explored, with a focus on the complex relationships between EMF and their host plants. Microbial interactions are examined in depth, with sections on both positive and negative influences of bacteria and different fungal groups on EM formation. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the biotic factors that shape EM associations, offering insights into the mechanisms that underpin these critical ecological interactions and their broader implications for ecosystem management and restoration.

Low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes form part of the IRIG-106 standard and have been successfully deployed for the Telemetry Group version of shaped-offset quadrature phase shift keying (SOQPSK-TG) modulation. Recently, LDPC code solutions have been proposed and optimized for continuous phase modulations (CPMs), including pulse code modulation/frequency modulation (PCM/FM) and the multi-h CPM developed by the Advanced Range TeleMetry program (ARTM CPM). These codes were shown to perform around one dB from the respective channel capacities of these modulations. In this paper, we consider the effect of random puncturing and shortening of these LDPC codes to further improve spectrum efficiency. We perform asymptotic analyses of the ARTM0 code ensembles and present numerical simulation results that affirm the robust decoding performance promised by LDPC codes designed for ARTM CPM.

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is an infectious disease caused by Ehrlichia canis, a globally recognized obligate intracellular bacterium. In addition to dogs, other animals, including humans, may be affected. Despite its epidemiological importance and impact on public health, there is currently no commercial vaccine against E. canis. This study aimed to present relevant aspects of the challenges and advances encountered in the development of vaccines for CME and highlight perspectives for future investigations. High genetic variability, along with the various evasion mechanisms employed by E. canis, has hindered the identification of an antigen that targets Th1 cells and is immunogenic to most E. canis isolates, considering their distinct antigenic characteristics. To achieve robust immunity, the vaccine must predominantly confer cellular and humoral immunity. Early production efforts have been challenging owing to low immunogenicity, difficulties in establishing long-term protection, and limitations of the techniques used. However, with the refinement of bioinformatic tools, research in this area will be facilitated, thereby accelerating the development of effective vaccines for CME. According to these authors, a vaccine should consist of multiple epitopes.

In this paper, we propose the definition of block tensors and the real representation of tensors. Equipped with the simplification method, i.e., the real representation along with the M-P inverse, we demonstrate the conditions that are necessary and sufficient for the system of dual split quaternion tensor equations (A*NX,X*SC)=(B,D) when its solution exists. Furthermore, the general expression of the solution is also provided when the solution of the system exists and we use a numerical example to validate it in the last section. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that the aforementioned tensor system has been examined on dual split quaternion algebra. Additionally, we provide its equivalent conditions when its Hermitian solution X=X* and η-Hermitian solutions X=Xη* exist. Subsequently, we discuss two special dual split quaternion tensor equations. Last but not least, we propose an application for encrypting and decrypting two color videos and we validate this algorithm through a specific example.

For a single exposure in radiography, a dual-layer flat-panel detector (DFD) can provide spectral images based on copper filtering or beam hardening, and efficiently utilize the transmitted x-ray photons to improve the detective quantum efficiency (DQE) performance. In this paper, we present a registration method for x-ray images acquired from DFD considering only spatial translations and scale factors. Note that the spatial translation difference between the upper and lower detector layers arises when attaching the layers, and the scale difference arises from the x-ray projection relative to the source and detector distances. The conventional registration methods have inconsistent estimate accuracies depending on the captured object scene even when using entire pixels, and have deteriorated frequency performance due to the interpolation method employed. The proposed method consists of two steps; the first step is conducting a spatial translation according to the Fourier shift theorem with a subpixel registration, and the second step is conducting a scale transformation using cubic interpolation to process the x-ray projections. To estimate the subpixel spatial translation, a maximum-amplitude method using a small portion of the slant-edge phantom is used. The performance of the proposed two-step method is first theoretically analyzed, and then observed by conducting extensive experiments and measuring the noise power spectrum and DQE. An example for registering chest images is also shown. For DFD, it is shown that the proposed method shows a better registration result than the conventional one-step registration.

Bayesian networks have emerged as a powerful tool for modelling complex probabilistic relationships in uncertain environments. The process of inducing Bayesian networks involves learning both the structure of the network and the parameters of the associated probability distributions. This paper provides a detailed examination of the two main approaches to Bayesian network induction: structure learning and parameter estimation, highlighting the use of both constraint-based and score-based techniques. Furthermore, the role of distribution-based methods in the estimation and inference of probabilistic models is explored. These methods, including Maximum Likelihood Estimation, Bayesian Estimation, and Monte Carlo techniques, offer robust ways to handle parameter uncertainty and facilitate efficient inference in large, complex models. This comprehensive view aims to bridge the gap between the theoretical foundations and practical applications of these methods, providing insights for researchers and practitioners in the field of machine learning and probabilistic reasoning.

Skid steer mobile robots are widely used in indoor and outdoor applications. However, accurate trajectory tracking control for this kind of robot is quite challenging due to the uncertainties arising from the complex behavior of frictional force, external disturbances, and undergoing fluctuations in the instantaneous center of rotation (ICR) during turning maneuvers. The uncertainties directly disturb velocities and make it impossible for the robot to track the command velocities, thus making the SSMR unable to follow the reference path. This paper proposes a nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (NTSMC) based on backstepping for a 4-wheel skid steer mobile robot to cope with the aforementioned challenges. The strategy seeks to mitigate the impact of external disturbances and model uncertainties by developing an adaptive law to estimate the integrated lumped outcome. Then, the finite time stability of the closed-loop system is proven using Lyapunov’s theory. The designed NTSMC input is continuous and has no noticeable chattering problem. It has also been noted from the analysis that the proposed control strategy is strongly robust against disturbance and modeling uncertainties. The proposed control scheme demonstrates effective trajectory tracking performance in the presence of disturbance and modeling uncertainties through simulations.

Background. Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex condition marked by increased pain sensitivity and central sensitization. Studies often explore the link between FM and depressive-anxiety disorders, but few focus on dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder (PDD), which can be more disabling than major depression (MD). Objective. To identify clinical scales and subscales of the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) that effectively describe and differentiate the psychological profile of PDD, with or without comorbid MD, in FM patients with PDD previously dimensionally classified by the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory III (MCMI-III). Method. An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with 66 women (mean age 49.18, SD=8.09) from Hospital del Mar. The PAI, the MCMI-III, and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) were used to assess the sample. Results. The PAI showed strong discriminative ability in detecting PDD, characterized by high scores in cognitive and emotional depression, and low scores in identity alteration, dominance, and grandeur. High scores in cognitive, emotional, and physiological depression, identity alteration, cognitive anxiety, and suicidal ideation, along with low scores in dominance and grandeur, were needed to detect MD with PDD. Discriminant analysis could differentiate 69.6-73.9% of the PDD group and 84.6% of the PDD+MD group. Group comparisons showed that 72.2% of patients with an affective disorder by PAI were correctly classified in the MCMI-III affective disorder group, and 70% without affective disorder were correctly classified. Conclusions. The PAI effectively identifies PDD in FM patients and detects concurrent MD episodes, aiding in better prognostic and therapeutic guidance.

Growing evidence suggests that abnormal diurnal blood pressure rhythms may be associated with many adverse health outcomes including increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. This study evaluates methodological aspects of research on bidirectional associations between ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) patterns and cognitive function. By examining the 28 recent studies included in a recent systematic review on association between ABPM patterns with cognitive function and risk of dementia, our review revealed several significant limitations in the current studies of ABPM and cognition in terms of study design, sample characteristics, ABPM protocol, cognitive assessment, and data analysis. The major concerns include lack of diversity in study populations with underrepresentation of Blacks and Latinos, a predominant focus on Alzheimer's disease or all-cause dementia without distinguishing other dementia subtypes, different and not standardized measures of cognition or dementia, the prevalent use of 24-hour monitoring without considering the adaption effect, inconsistent definitions of dipping status, and ignorance of individual differences in timings of daily activities such as bed and awakening times. In addition, confounding variables such as class, dose, and timing of antihypertensive medication are inadequately controlled or considered. Additionally, longitudinal studies were scarce examining the bidirectional relationship between ABPM patterns and cognitive decline over time. Collectively, these deficiencies undermine the reliability and generalizability of current findings. Addressing these methodological challenges is crucial for more comprehensive understanding of diurnal blood pressure rhythms in diverse populations and for developing an evidence-based guideline of ambulatory monitoring and control of blood pressure across the sleep-wake cycle to prevent cognitive decline and dementia.

Porcine recombinant NK-lysin (prNK-lysin) has been shown to inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in vitro. However, its effects on the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells in vivo remain unclear. In this study, allograft murine model using the murine HCC cell line Hepa1-6 was employed to investigate the anticancer effects of prNK-lysin. Initially, the in vitro anticancer efficacy of prNK-lysin was evaluated on Hepa1-6 cells, demonstrating that prNK-lysin effectively inhibited both proliferation and metastasis through the induction of oncosis. Subsequently, the in vivo anticancer efficacy of prNK-lysin was assessed using a mouse liver orthotopic implantation model and a lung metastasis model of Hepa1-6 cells in BALB/cA-nu mice. Administration of 13 mg/kg prNK-lysin could inhibited tumor growth in the liver and metastasis to the lungs. Our results demonstrate that prNK-lysin possesses strong anti-HCC effects both in vitro and in vivo, with the induction of oncosis as potential molecular mechanisms for its anticancer activity.

The study aimed to evaluate the nutritional value of watermelon plant silage (WPS) and to assess the effect of replacing alfalfa hay (AH) with WPS in a diet formulated for dairy goats on the basis of two in vitro trials. The study used four goats as donors of rumen microbiota to analyze in vitro fermentation parameters. The chemical composition analysis revealed that WPS and AH had similar protein content (21.1 vs. 18.9 g CP/100 g DM), but WPS had lower contents of organic matter (77.4 vs. 89.6 g/100 g DM), neutral detergent fiber (36.3 vs. 49.4 g/100 g DM), acid detergent fiber (26.4 vs. 34.6 g/100 g DM), acid detergent lignin (6.40 vs. 8.01 g/100 g DM), and amino acids (716 vs. 874 g AA/kg N) compared to AH. Conversely, WPS had higher crude fat content (3.09 vs. 1.29 g/100 g DM) and different macro- and micromineral content values than AH. In a first in vitro trial, WPS and AH were incubated independently to compare their fermentation behaviour, indicating that the metabolizable energy tended to be higher for WPS compared to the AH diet (6.67 vs. 5.72 MJ/kg DM; P = 0.058). WPS fermentation produced higher concentrations of total volatile fatty acids than AH (66.6 vs. 53.3 mM; P = 0.037), lower proportions of propionate and valerate (P ≤ 0.022), higher proportions of isobutyrate (P = 0.001), and showed similar gas production (GP) kinetics, as degradation rate and its potential release, and estimated organic matter digestibility. In a second in vitro trial, a formulated goat diet (consisting of commercial concentrate and AH in a 1:1 ratio) was used as a control to assay the impact of replacing 25 and 50 % of AH by WPS. Trends were observed in several parameters, such as a linear increase in GP rate (P = 0.088), organic matter digestibility (P = 0.067), and CH4 concentration in the gas produced (P = 0.094) as AH was replaced by WPS. The study concluded that WPS could serve as a viable fodder to replace AH in conventional dairy goat diets while simultaneously reducing agricultural waste and serving as a regenerative model for implementing the circular economy strategy in the affected agronomic sectors.

Methyl Mercaptan is a sulfur-based chemical found as a co-product in produced natural gas and causes corrosion in pipelines, storage tanks, catalysts, and solid adsorption beds. To improve the quality of methane produced, researchers studied the use of metal oxides and aluminum silicates as catalysts for removing mercaptan. However, there are restricted limitations on the efficiency of metal oxides or aluminum silicates as adsorbents for this particular application. Therefore, this study investigated the performance of these materials in a fixed-bed reactor with simulated natural gas streams under various operating conditions. The testing procedure includes a detailed assessment of the adsorbent/catalysts by several techniques, such as Braeuer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDS), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. The result revealed that metal oxides such as copper, manganese, and zinc performed well in methyl mercaptan elimination. The addition of manganese, copper, and zinc oxides to the aluminum silicate surface resulted in a sulfur capacity of 1226 mg S/g of catalyst. These findings provide critical insights for the development of catalysts that combine metal oxides to increase adsorption while reducing the production of byproducts like dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) during methyl mercaptan removal.

LLC resonant converters have emerged as essential components in DC charging station modules, thanks to their outstanding performance attributes such as high power density, efficiency, and compact size. The stability of these converters is crucial for vehicle endurance and passenger experience, making reliability a top priority. However, malfunctions in the switching transistor or current sensor can hinder the converter’s ability to maintain a resonant state and stable output voltage, leading to a notable reduction in system efficiency and output capability.This article proposes a fault diagnosis strategy for LLC resonant converters utilizing a reduced order interval sliding mode observer. Initially, an augmented generalized system for the LLC resonant converter is developed to convert current sensor faults into generalized state vectors. Next, the application of matrix transformations plays a critical role in decoupling open-circuit faults from the inverter system’s state and current sensor faults. To achieve accurate estimation of phase currents and detection of current sensor faults, a reduced-order interval sliding mode observer has been designed. Building upon the estimation results generated by this observer, a diagnostic algorithm featuring adaptive thresholds has been introduced. This innovative algorithm effectively differentiates between current sensor faults and open switch faults, enhancing fault detection accuracy. Furthermore, it is capable of localizing faulty power switches and estimating various types of current sensor faults, thereby providing valuable insights for maintenance and repair. The robustness and effectiveness of the proposed fault diagnosis algorithm have been validated through experimental results and comparisons with existing methods, confirming its practical applicability in real-world inverter systems.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), first conceptualized in 1923, encompasses a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including insulin resistance (IR), hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and central obesity. This syndrome significantly increases the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Its global prevalence has surged, largely attributed to lifestyle factors such as poor diet and physical inactivity. Recent research highlights the crucial role of caveolae, small cellular structures, in the pathophysiology of MetS, particularly in insulin signaling, lipid metabolism, and vascular function. Managing MetS effectively requires a comprehensive strategy focused on lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatments. Dietary approaches, environmental factors, regular physical activity and behavioral changes have demonstrated positive impacts on metabolic health. Despite current pharmacological options to individual conditions of MetS, emerging therapies targeting caveolae offer promising new avenues for treatment. While, microbiome modulation and certain natural agents may assist in managing the syndrome. Public health initiatives, including educational campaigns and stress reduction programs, are essential for the prevention and management of MetS. A multifaceted approach combining lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, and personalized interventions is vital for effective management. Future strategies may benefit from precision medicine and the integration of emerging biomarkers for targeted therapies.

This paper discusses the transformative role Artificial Intelligence (AI) is anticipated to play in the film industry, specifically concerning its capacity to enhance and redefine the parameters of cinematic realism. As the integration of AI in the cinematic field gains momentum, an exploration of its implications on the perceived realism in film is essential. The paper first outlines the historical trajectory of realism in cinema, mapping its evolution and its core principles with respect to technological advances; we then introduce AI as a disruptive technology poised to reshape this trajectory. The focus of the paper lies in examining how AI, through its advanced image recognition and synthesis, data analysis, and deep learning capabilities, has the potential to revolutionise traditional methods of film production, post-production, and distribution, significantly impacting the authenticity of cinematic narratives. The paper then discusses potential drawbacks, such as the risk of over-reliance on technology and the ethical implications of AI utilisation, offering a balanced perspective on this emergent phenomenon. The paper aims to inform film scholars, industry professionals, and enthusiasts about the profound transformations AI is set to bring, propelling the discussion towards the future of film in the era of artificial intelligence.

This research answers the knowledge gap regarding the explanation of the quantum jump of the electron. This scientific paper aims to complete Einstein’s research regarding general relativity and attempt to link general relativity to quantum laws.

Nursing, a profession known for its compassion and dedication to providing exceptional patient care, relies heavily on the cultivation of caring attributes to uphold the highest standards of practice. Despite the common use of small group work in nursing education, there is a gap in understanding how these caring attributes are developed through this approach. This qualitative study sought to explore the emergence of caring attributes in small group settings as perceived by nursing students and educators. Thirteen nursing students and ten educators participated in semi-structured group interviews at a professional educational institution. The study identified four key sets of caring attributes nurtured through small group work: interpersonal communication with respect, compassion, and empathy; competence and confidence; and accountability to commitment. These findings underscore the essential role of caring in nursing, emphasizing how collaborative group work can facilitate the development of crucial attributes through interpersonal interactions. The cultivation of respectful communication skills among students is highlighted as pivotal for enhancing interactions with healthcare professionals, patients, and families, ultimately improving the quality of care provided. By providing opportunities for interactive learning and ongoing practice, students can effectively embody these caring attributes, fostering their nursing professionalism throughout their careers.

Rivers are crucial hydrological cycle components, supporting ecosystems and human activities. Managing and protecting river water quality is essential. Diatoms, microscopic algae, are widespread and sensitive to changes in water quality, making them effective bioindicators. This study focused on the Kuils River in the Western Cape, South Africa, where diatom sampling was conducted at four sites. Their communities are affected by different physicochemical parameters, such as changes in pH, salinisation, eutrophication, and organic enrichment. A total of 98 diatom species were identified. The Omnidia software was used to calculate the Generic Diatom Index, Specific Pollution Index, and Trophic Diatom Index. Historical physicochemical data from the Department of Water and Sanitation provided a reference for comparing diatom communities. The results showed clear signs of pollution, as shifts in diatom species composition were observed. Pollu-tion-tolerant species like the Nitzchia palea, Navicula viridula, Eunotia bilunaris, and Fragilaria ulna dominated, while less pollution-tolerant species like Gomphonema parvulum and Cyclotella meneghiniana were less abundant. Both diatom indices and physicochemical data indicated poor water quality in the Kuils River. The study concludes that diatoms are a valuable tool for biomonitoring river water quality and recommends their use alongside traditional physicochemical methods for future assessments of river sys-tems.

In this paper, we analyze the FIDO2 authentication scheme from the point of view of its resilience to kleptographic attacks. We show that despite its spartan design and apparent efforts to make it immune to dishonest protocol participants, the unlinkability features of FIDO2 can be effectively broken without a chance to detect it by observing the interactions. Similarly, a malicious authenticator can enable an adversary to seize the authenticator’s private keys and thereby enable impersonating the authenticator’s owner. As a few components of the FIDO 2 protocol are the source of the problem, we indicate that either their implementation details must be scrutinized during a certification process or one can introduce some minor local changes in the FIDO2 protocol that effectively disable attacks of this kind.

A new analytical expression is proposed for the reduced influence parameter in Density Gradient Theory when combined with the Peng-Robinson equation of state for 32 n-alkanes. It contains the critical and triple point temperature values for each fluid as input and three adjustable coefficients. The new analytical expression contains the two-coefficients Zuo and Stenby and Miqueu et al.correlations as particular cases, and it is a modification of the previously published Cachadiña et al. correlation. Initially, the correlation coefficients for each fluid were obtained by fitting selected values for surface tension, and the results were comparable to other specific correlations reported in the literature. The overall mean absolute percentage deviation (OMAPD) between the selected and calculated data is just 0.79% Then, a general correlation including six adjustable coefficients valid for all the considered n-alkanes is proposed. It includes the radius of gyration as a new input parameter for each fluid. In this case, the OMAPD is 1.78\%. The use of other fluid properties as inputs is also briefly discussed.

Objective: To evaluate whether primary tumor treatment provides a survival benefit in uveal melanoma by comparing patients who declined treatment (Natural History Study, NHS) with those who received treatment in the Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study (COMS) for medium-sized choroidal melanomas. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using reverse-engineered individual-level survival data from cumulative all-cause mortality curves in the original COMS and NHS publications. Censoring patterns were estimated from numbers at risk and descriptive statistics. To ensure a conservative approach, a Bonferroni-corrected significance level of 0.017 was applied. Further, if the Cox regression hazard ratio for all-cause mortality, the unadjusted risk ratio for death at 8 years, and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the Kaplan-Meier curves did not indicate a smaller survival difference for the resulting data than reported in the original studies, we iteratively adjusted the NHS cohort data by reducing the 8-year cumulative mortality by one percentage point until these criteria were met. Results: Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed significantly higher cumulative mortality in the NHS cohort compared to the COMS cohort (Log-rank P = 0.012). When restricting the analysis to the first 8 years to account for unclear censoring patterns beyond this period, the NHS cohort still demonstrated worse survival (P = 0.008). Sensitivity analysis varying censoring times by ±25% over 1,000 iterations confirmed worse survival in the NHS cohort in 100% of cases. Conclusions: Patients who declined primary tumor treatment had significantly worse survival than those who received treatment. These findings support the hypothesis that primary tumor treatment confers a survival benefit in uveal melanoma.

There is currently no clinically valid biomarker for predicting the growth and prognosis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). The most promising candidates with highest diagnostic values are plasma D-dimers and markers of activated neutrophils, i.e. myeloperoxidase (MPO) or cell-free DNA. So far, case-control studies on these markers were almost exclusively performed by using healthy individuals for control. To validate the value of these markers in the clinical setting of a vascular surgery department, we analysed the diagnostic and prognostic potential of plasma D-dimers and MPO in 177 AAA patients versus 138 non-AAA patients with different vascular diseases. Significantly elevated levels of D-dimers were recorded for AAA patients compared with non-AAA patients, although the difference between the two groups was significantly smaller than in other studies comparing AAA patients with healthy controls. Surprisingly, MPO levels were significantly higher in non-AAA patients than in AAA patients. After adjusting for the confounding factors sex, peripheral artery disease (PAD) and internal carotid stenosis in multivariate regression models, neither D-dimers nor MPO remained independent correlates of AAA. In contrast, D-dimer plasma levels correlated well with the maximal aortic diameter. Combined analysis of D-dimers and circulating cell-free DNA levels derived from a previous study, failed to improve the predictive values for the maximal aortic diameter. In conclusion, our data show that D-dimers and MPO are no suitable biomarkers for monitoring AAA in a real-world setting of mixed vascular surgery patients.

For the development of a high-quality functional bread it is of crucial importance to find a compromise between improving the functional value of the product and impairing its quality. Therefore, the primary aim of this work was to define the effects of carob pulp flour (CF; 10-20% on flour basis) on rheological behavior of dough and quality parameters of bread. Introduction of CF caused a major increase in dough resistance while significantly decreasing dough extensibility, resulting in lower volume with denser crumb structure of obtained bread samples. The negative effects of CF on dough and bread characteristics were partialy compensated by the addition of dry sourdough (DS) as an improver in the amount of 5-10% (flour basis). It was determined that by combining 15% CF and 10% DS bread of very good sensory quality can be produced. The content of total dietary fiber (6.48 g), Mn (0.76 mg) and Cu (0.21 mg) per 100 g of mentioned bread was sufficient for the nutritional claims: "high in fiber", "high in manganese" and "source of copper". Obtained bread had 10 times higher content of total phenols and multiple times higher antioxidant activity compared to the control. Moreover, microbiological tests confirmed the durability of bread with 15% CF and 10% DS up to seven days. Therefore, carob pulp flour can be successfully applied in the production of bread, which characteristics are adapted to modern trends in nutrition.

The gene sets of the two cells produced by each division of the fertilized egg are different, and these differences gradually accumulate. When the similarity between a certain cell and a certain type of cell is below a threshold, the differentiation ability in that direction is lost. When all cells can only have one developmental direction, the expression of zygotic genes is turned on. When a stem cell differentiates, it first divides into two cells. One of two cells, similar to the next level cell, becomes the next level cell, while the other, similar to the mother cell, continues to become the other stem cell. When a cell undergoes dedifferentiation, it expresses a group of genes. When the gene set is similar to the upper level stem cell, the cell undergoes dedifferentiation and becomes the upper level stem cell.

Human CYP1-CYP4 families play crucial roles in the biosynthesis, bioactivation, and detoxification of a diverse range of chemicals including xenobiotics, steroid hormones, vitamins, bile acids, procarcinogens, and drugs. The same CYP isoform can be involved in the conversion of different substrates via both bioactivation and detoxification reactions depending on a substrate type. Furthermore, the same CYP isoform can convert the same substrate to different products depending on a tissue type. On the contrary, different CYP isoforms can convert the same substrate to a variety of products, either more toxic or less toxic than their parent compound. The metabolic diversity and dual character of biological effects dictate limited number of cancer types, in which CYPs are implicated. In our review, we highlight the latest advancements and current understanding of molecular mechanisms of the development of hormone-sensitive cancers tumors based on dysregulated CYP expression and mutagenic adduct formation. We discuss the variations in CYP activities including CYP gene polymorphisms, which affect interindividual differences in cancer and drug susceptibilities. We show that there is only limited data indicating the statistically significant association between CYP gene polymorphisms and cancer among different populations. The involvement of CYPs in anticancer drug metabolism associated with drug-drug interactions and drug resistance is also discussed.

The monkeypox outbreak has grown beyond the regions in which it was considered endemic. It has spread from Central and West Africa to non-endemic Regions like Europe, America, and other parts of the world. It has recently been classified as a public health emergency of international concern. This study evaluated the Challenges faced in Global and equitable access to monkeypox vaccines. Global competition has been observed in the race to get vaccines, with low and middle-income countries being disadvantaged. Great inequity exists in the distribution of vaccines globally through advance purchase agreements, vaccine stockpiling, vaccine nationalism, inequitable distribution of existing resources, and insufficient surveillance and reporting mechanisms. To address some of these challenges, there needs to be a global strengthening of vaccine manufacturing capacity, targeting countries with elevated risk profiles and limited resources, overcoming vaccine hesitancy, strengthening surveillance systems, and addressing vaccine hesitancy.

The Riemann hypothesis, renowned for its deep connection to the distribution of prime numbers, remains a central problem in mathematics. Understanding the distribution of primes is crucial for developing efficient algorithms and advancing our knowledge of number theory. The Riemann hypothesis is the assertion that all non-trivial zeros are complex numbers with real part $\frac{1}{2}$. It is considered by many to be the most important unsolved problem in pure mathematics. Several equivalent formulations of the Riemann hypothesis exist. Robin's criterion for the Riemann hypothesis is based on an inequality that divisor sum function $\sigma$ must satisfy at natural numbers greater than 5040. We require the properties of superabundant numbers, that is to say left to right maxima of $n \mapsto \frac{\sigma(n)}{n}$. By using Robin's criterion on superabundant numbers, we present a novel approach that culminates in a complete proof of the Riemann hypothesis. This work is an expansion and refinement of the article "Robin's criterion on divisibility", published in The Ramanujan Journal.

The optimal power flow (OPF) problem is a critical component in the design and operation of power transmission systems. Various optimization algorithms have been developed to address this issue. This paper expands the use of the Coronavirus Disease Optimization Algorithm (COVIDOA) to solve a multi-objective OPF problem (MO-OPF), incorporating renewable energy sources as dis-tributed generation (DG) across multiple scenarios. The main objectives are to minimize fuel costs, emissions, voltage deviations, and power losses. Due to its non-convex nature and computational complexity, OPF poses significant challenges. While COVIDOA has been utilized to solve engi-neering problems, it faces difficulties with non-linear and non-convex issues. This paper introduces an enhanced version, the Enhanced COVID Optimization Algorithm (ENHCOVIDOA), designed to improve the performance of the original method. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is validated through testing on IEEE 30-bus and 57-bus systems, as well as a real-world 28-bus system representing Iraq’s Standard Iraq Super Grid High Voltage (SISGHV-28 Buses). The Two-Point Estimation Method (TPEM) is also applied to manage uncertainties in renewable energy sources in some cases, leading to cost reductions and annual savings of ($87772.9374, $391246.87, & $ 2,493,881.40) for the IEEE 30-bus, 57-bus, and reality 28-bus systems, respectively. Thirteen dif-ferent cases were analyzed, and the results demonstrate that ENHCOVIDOA is notably more ef-ficient and effective than other optimization algorithms in the literature.

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique for enhancing precipitation in arid and semi-arid regions, including Western U.S. However, designing an optimal cloud seeding operation based on comprehensive evaluation metrics, such as seeding agent dispersion and atmospheric conditions, has yet to be thoroughly explored for this region. This study investigated the impacts of cloud seeding, particularly utilizing silver iodide, on ice particle growth within clouds through numerical modeling. By leveraging the Snow Growth Model for Rimed Snowfall (SGMR), the microphysical processes involved in cloud seeding across five distinct events were simulated. The events were in the Lake Tahoe region, nestled within the Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges in the western U.S. This model was executed based on six primary variables, including cloud top height, cloud base height, cloud top temperature, cloud base temperature, liquid water content, and ice water content. This study incorporated datasets from the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications Version 2 and the Clouds and the Earth Radiant Energy System. Findings revealed the importance of ice nucleation, aggregation, diffusion, and riming processes and highlighted the effectiveness of cloud seeding in enhancing ice particle number concentration, ice water content, and snowfall rates. However, event-specific analyses indicated diverse precipitation responses to cloud seeding based on initial atmospheric conditions. The SGMR modeling hints at the importance of improving ice microphysical processes and provides insights for future cloud seeding research using regional and global climate models.

Background: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are often associated with tethered cord syndrome (TCS). This study focused on children with ARM to explore the risk factors for the co-occurrence of TCS and to investigate the impact of untethering surgery on anorectal function among these children. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 130 children with ARM treated at Fujian Provincial Children's Hospital (Fujian Hospital of Shanghai Children's Medical Center) from May 2021 to January 2024. A total of 114 children were included in the study on the basis of the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of TCS: the ARM group (n=83) and the ARM+TCS group (n=31). to explore the risk factors for the co-occurrence of ARM and TCS. All children diagnosed with TCS underwent untethering surgery regardless of symptoms. Anorectal function was compared between the ARM and ARM+TCS groups. Results: In the multivariate analysis, intermediate or high-type ARM increased the risk of children with ARM having TCS, with an OR of 3.571, 95% CI from 0.106 to 0.738, and p= 0.010. Additionally, the presence of other malformations also increased the risk of children with ARM having TCS (p=0.026). When the ARM+TCS group was compared with the ARM group, children with low-type ARM in the ARM+TCS group exhibited a significant improvement in constipation following untethering surgery (p=0.043). However, when children with intermediate or high-type ARM were compared, the anorectal function of the children in both groups was comparable. Conclusions: Intermediate or high-type ARM and the presence of other malformations are risk factors for the co-occurrence of TCS in children with ARM. In children with low-type ARM, those with TCS and ARM showed significant improvement in constipation after untethering surgery compared with those with ARM without TCS. We recommend that children with relevant conditions actively undergo untethering surgery.

Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) is a major disease affecting banana production around the globe. To study the movement of Foc in planta and investigate potential physical mechanisms of deterrence, the roots of a set of banana cultivars were challenged with a GFP-tagged subtropical race 4 strain of Foc. These plants included susceptible and resistant varieties including the plantain 'FHIA25' (AAB), dessert hybrids 'Lady Finger' (AAB), 'FHIA02' (AAAA), as well as the industry preferred Cavendish line, 'Williams' (AAA), and its somaclone derivative 'GCTCV119' (AAA). GFP localisation in planta confirmed that Foc can infect all four cultivars. Its movement through roots to the rhizome and to the aerial parts of the plants was evident. Tyloses formation in the root vasculature was also detected by GFP auto-fluorescence and further confirmed using scanning electron microscopy. While tyloses formation did not prevent colonisation and infection, their formation restricted the fungus within the xylem vessels, slowing its proliferation. This mechanism may be an important factor in providing plant host tolerance to Foc but it doesn't provide complete immunity. Fluorescently tagged Foc is a useful tool for understanding the infection process of the Fusarium wilt disease of banana and aiding in the integrated management of this important disease.

Cosmopolitan character, and proven high and differentiated efficiency of Cd hyperaccumultor Solanum nigrum L. suggest possibility of optimizing its Cd phytoremediation capacity and applicability through searching among remote ecotypes/genotypes. However, the extensive studies on this hyperaccumulator have been limited to Far East (Asian) regions. Pioneer pot experiments on Middle European ecotype of S. nigrum with the use of concentration range 0-50 mg kg-1 Cd in soil, revealed its comparable to Asian ecotypes Cd phytoremediation capacity, but fundamentally different Cd tolerance threshold. It manifested itself in sharp biomass decline at Csoil ≈ 10 mg kg-1 Cd in Asian ecotypes versus gradual mild biomass decrease within the whole Csoil ≈ 0 -50 mg kg-1 Cd range with no crisis symptoms in Middle European ecotype. In its A50 variety adapted by using seeds originated from the first-generation plants grown in soil with Csoil ≈ 50 mg kg-1 Cd, cadmium tolerance, accumulation performance and all physiological parameters (chlorophyll, carotenoids, RuBisCO, and first- and second line defense antioxidant activity) were significantly enhanced while cell damage by ROS was considerably lesser. This makes Middle European ecotype and its adapted variety A50 particularly useful to sustainable decontamination of heavily polluted “hot spots” in the degraded post-industrial areas.

Geochemical and isotopic analysis of the bitumen lining of torpedo jar sherds from the Sasanian to early Islamic period fort of Fulayj in Oman confirms the presence of two distinct compositional categories that can be matched to contemporary sources in different areas of southwest Iran. It appears that the bitumen used to line jars was extracted from different geographic areas, hinting at the existence of multiple production locations for this vessel class. On the function of the jars, organic residue analysis provides a positive identification of biomarkers associated with the storage and transport of red wine. These results provide the first published confirmation of the long suspected association between torpedo jars and wine transportation from the core urbanised zone of the Sasanian and early Islamic imperial heartlands towards the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean maritime sphere. The results have added significance as the samples are derived from relatively accurately dated archaeological contexts spanning the period before and after the Islamic conquest.

When solar energy is converted into electricity by photovoltaic modules, only 20% of the incident solar radiation is converted into electricity and the remaining 80% is converted into heat, increasing the temperature of the photovoltaic solar cells. The increase in PV module temperature has a negative impact on open-circuit voltage. This leads to a reduction in electrical efficiency and degradation of the photovoltaic modules. In order to maintain their operating temperature under standard test conditions, it is important to remove the excess heat from the photovoltaic solar cells by cooling. After cooling, the temperature of the PV modules decreases and the electrical efficiency is improved. In this article, air cooling techniques for photovoltaic modules are examined. The disadvantages and prospects of the different approaches to these air-cooling techniques are presented. Understanding the different cooling techniques is important for improving the electricity production of photovoltaic modules and for popularising this technology.

With the development of the times, the objective requirement of CIM is to establish a 3D digital city. This article proposes a software front-end and back-end open source solution for the production and release of 3D modeling in different industries. This article is based on the construction practice of CIM basic platform database, and analyzes the spatial resolution and corresponding entity expression effect of 3D models in CIM basic platform from the perspective of CIM industry application, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of application. It also elaborates on the classification of 3D models and the geographic elements and buildings they contain, and introduces the relationship between 3D models and vector data, raster data, attribute data, as well as the difficulties of modeling technology. On this basis, large-scale 3D modeling and mapping experiments were conducted in the power industry, water industry, construction industry, and indoormap scene. The article has improved and optimized the algorithms for 3D excavation volume and wire azimuth, and introduced various parametric modeling techniques. From the perspective of project application and user feedback, the modeling quality, performance, and user experience have been recognized by the market. This article has certain reference value for the construction of the 3D model basic framework, theme oriented model system, modeling technology selection, and the release of massive 3D data services in the CIM basic platform construction.

Context: The impact of forced migration on mental health is far reaching and compounded by post- migration contexts in which social determinants of health, such as resettlement, employment and gender, play a key role. Research on refugee men has shown that employment and life transitions are key determinants of mental health. However, a gap in knowledge exists on refugee men’s perspectives on the factors that impact their mental health. Methodology: This study used community-based participatory action research and the arts-based method of Photovoice to understand Syrian refugee men’s (n = 11) experiences of forced migration, resettlement, and employment in a Canadian context, as well as the impacts of these experiences on their mental health. Analysis and Results: Drawing on the critical theoretical perspective of intersectionality, we analyzed photographs taken by research participants, which showed that language and literacy barriers, time and stage of life, isolation and loneliness, belonging and identity and gender-based stress intersected to shape their mental health. Conclusion: Meaningful employment was central to the men’s identities; however, they engaged in low wage, precarious work due to both discriminatory policies that favored Canadian experience and credentialing assessment processes that devalued their experience and knowledge. Adopting gender-responsive and caring policies and practices could shift dominant discourses on masculinity and support the mental health of refugee men in resettlement contexts.

I introduce the Onion Ring Hypothesis (ORH), to explain measurable, shared, and repeated bedrock and landform geometries that appear to reveal universal explosion patterns of shockwaves from cosmic impacts. In this paper I discuss, target rocks in known and researched structures: Vredefort Crater in South Africa, the Chicxulub structure in Yucatan, Mexico, and the Nördlinger-Ries crater in Germany. I developed this model in response to a challenge to describe the complexity of cosmic explosion patterns on the landscape in the simplest terms. In this case, my illustrations and images show how the ORH model rests on the concept of tessellation, the making of a tile-like pattern, combined with patterns generated from red onion slices to demonstrate the intersection of impact structures and substructures akin to raindrop ripples on a pond overlapping and spreading. The implications of this are profound: by embracing wave physics as this model demonstrates, it leads us to wonder if perhaps the natural landscape IS the cratered landscape. Much impact literature focuses on single impact’ structures, whether by asteroid or comet, and sometimes emphasizing how big the structures are. This reasoning unnecessarily restricts discussion to singular events, not a widespread impact fragment swarm. Data accumulates to show that signatures of impact generated signatures are not just in the northern hemisphere, as new research in South America has datable horizons of impact evidence corresponding to North American and European sites (2). Enough evidence has been studied that YDB scientists propose the black mat be a datum layer like the worldwide Iridium and Platinum-rich Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary denoting the extinction of all non-avian dinosaurs from the Chicxulub impact 65-66 mya (3). Since 2007 when I learned of the possibility of a cometary origin for the Terminal Pleistocene extinctions, the idea of a single bolide causing such damage and extinctions appears questionable. My focus is on the idea of the Earth passing through the tail of a large comet, wherein millions of fragments were likely to strike the Earth. The operative hunch is that for an impact event to cause that much damage, there must be visible, recognizable signatures on modern landscapes of impact origin. This hypothesis is supported by Wolbach, Ballard, Mayewski, etal who suggest that their findings of YDB data from sites in the US, Europe, and Central and South America, along with chemical and impact-related material in the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets are heterogeneous, like YDB samples, and are consistent with the distribution of findings to point at impact swarms from a fragmented comet (4). The larger point of this discussion is in response to critics of the Younger Dryas Comet hypothesis, also known as the Younger Dryas Boundary (YDB) event, believed by supporters as responsible for the extinctions of 32 or more genera of megafaunal mammals during the terminal Pleistocene epoch. The remains of extinct animals such as giant ground sloths, Bison antiquus, North American camel, horses, saber tooth cats, mastodons, and mammoths, and stone tools of the Clovis people who hunted them are found below a carbon-rich “black mat”(3) (which I call a “burn layer”) containing impact signatures such as magnetic and/or nonmagnetic silicate, carbon, metallic spherules, impact glass, nanodiamonds and evidence of widespread biomass burning circa 12,850+/- 50 calendar years BP. Above this layer, the extinct Pleistocene animals and Clovis culture are not found, although some megafauna survived into the very early Holocene in isolated populations. YDB researchers point to accumulating data such as burn layers or “black mats” as a datum layer akin to the Chicxulub impact iridium layer of 65 mya. (1) Full disclosure: I am not a trained scientist, but a professional landscape architect and land use planner. It is my job to pay attention to landscape patterns for developable areas and those to leave alone. To support the impact swarm hypothesis, based on my own observations and reviewed literature in this paper, there must be geometries that show traces of cosmic detonations on or above ground. My discovery of the impact ring patterns in the Onion Ring Hypothesis led to asking where else this patterning occurs, leading to multiple ways impact dynamics are reflected in several mapping technologies.

Antecedents. EFs (EFs) are the basis for establishing a goal and working towards that goal by coordinating thoughts and actions. EFs are fundamental to several aspects of daily life, specifically for academic performance. Aim. To analyze and compare the development of EFs in the transition period between the first and second cycles of Early Childhood Education. Methodology. Non-experimental methodology, ex post facto design, descriptive, cross-sectional evolution study. Participants. Preschoolers of different educational levels (first and second cycle of Infant Education). In this study the participants have been evaluated by different informants: 54.42% by parents and 45.58% by teachers. In relation to gender, 52.65% were male and 47.35% were female. In relation to age, 37.54% had a range of 2-3 years and 62.46% had a range of 4-5 years. Measurement. Instrument development of EFs were evaluated using BRIEF-P by key informants. Results. Preschoolers in the first cycle show significantly higher scores than preschoolers in the second cycle in BRIEP-P. Conclusions. The development of EF is key in these first key moments, having a special impact on later development and academic performance. It is necessary to work on EFs from the first cycle of Early Childhood Education, considering the evolutionary development of EFs.

The affordable housing crisis in the United States disproportionately affects low-income families, with millions facing severe housing cost burdens and limited access to adequate housing. This article explores the potential of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to address this housing gap by providing innovative, data-driven solutions that optimize housing development, design, and construction processes. By leveraging AI for predictive analysis, automated design, and construction optimization, stakeholders can significantly reduce costs, increase efficiency, and create sustainable housing that meets the needs of low-income populations. The article examines how AI can accurately predict future housing demand, generate efficient building designs, and streamline construction processes, while also addressing challenges such as equity, bias in AI models, and technical and financial barriers to implementation. Additionally, recommendations are provided for policymakers, developers, and community organizations to ensure that AI-driven housing solutions are deployed equitably and effectively. This paper concludes that while AI is not a standalone solution to the housing crisis, it has the potential to complement existing strategies and significantly improve access to affordable housing for low-income families across the U.S.

The increasing complexity of IP network infrastructures necessitates efficient and adaptive configuration management solutions. This paper presents an AI-driven framework that integrates machine learning and reinforcement learning techniques to enhance the management of configurations for IP network devices. The proposed approach leverages a comprehensive dataset comprising configuration parameters and performance metrics to train predictive models. Experimental results demonstrate that the framework achieves an accuracy of 88% in predicting optimal configurations, significantly outperforming traditional methods. Additionally, the framework exhibits an average response time of 150 milliseconds for applying configuration changes, underscoring its efficiency. A reinforcement learning agent is implemented to adapt to dynamic network conditions, yielding improved decision- making over time. The user interface designed for the framework facilitates real-time monitoring and visualization of network configurations. The findings suggest that the AI- driven framework not only streamlines configuration management processes but also empowers network administrators to proactively address network challenges. Future work will focus on scalability, integration with emerging technologies, and user feedback mechanisms to further enhance the framework's effectiveness.

Background/Objectives: To develop a novel method for isolating proteins associated with Long Non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) using high-throughput Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and proteomics approaches for identifying cancer-associated proteins involved in post-translational modifications (PTMs) such as glycosylation, phosphorylation, citrullination, methylation, and acetylation. Additionally, the focus is on identifying and quantifying differentially modulated or regulated proteins associated with LncRNAs to discover novel molecular signatures or biomarkers. Methods: Identification, quantification, and characterization of LncRNAs associated pro-teins by using Label free Quantification (LFQ) of proteins by Nono LC-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)., use Employ bioinformatics, biostatistics analysis for find out the differentially expressed, exclusive protein or modulated., find outInvestigate the mechanisms and pathways involving these unique or specific proteins analysis of unique/specific proteins and Validation of these unique/specific proteins by Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting/ enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for to achieve better out-come. Conclusions: Identified and validated novel proteins associated with LncRNAs could be early detective molecular biomarkers of cancer and it could be useful in clinical practice for diagnosis, prognosis of liver, colorectal and other several types of cancer types.

A recently developed differential geometric representation of redundant serial robot kinematics is employed to create an extended operational space dynamics and control formulation that explicitly accounts for redundant robot degrees of freedom. This formulation corrects deficiencies in kinematics and dynamics of redundant serial robots that have relied for over half a century on error prone generalized inverse velocity-based kinematics for redundancy resolution. New ordinary differential equations of robot operational space dynamics are obtained, without the need for ad-hoc derivation, in terms of task coordinates and self-motion coordinates that represent robot redundancy. A new extended operational space control approach is presented that exploits ordinary differential equations of motion in term of task and self-motion coordinates. This enables enforcement of desired output trajectories, in tandem with direct enforcement of self-motion dependent operational space trajectories that are subject to obstacle avoidance and performance constraints. Four examples are presented with a one degree of redundancy robot that demonstrate validity and superior performance of the new formulation, relative to traditional task space methods used for redundant serial robot control. Finally, an example with eight degrees of redundancy is presented that further illustrates superior performance of the new formulation.

The structural integrity of the gastrointestinal tract is important because it dictates the functionality of this system. Regarding this, GALT (gut-associated lymphoid tissues) have a significant role in immunity. Most cancer research focuses on organized lymphoid structures and less on diffuse structures such as the lamina propria (LP). Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the link between LP and cancer in humans. The interstitial matrix and loose connective tissue layer located directly under the epithelium is known as the LP. In this area, there are a lot of IgA+ plasma cells (PCs), T and B lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and stromal cells (SCs). Antigens from the lumen are picked up by LP DCs and presented directly to B cells, which may cause IgA class switching and differentiation in the presence of T cells. In humans, the GALT of the mucosa has been proposed as the source of a unique malignancy known as "GALT carcinoma," which is thought to represent the "third pathway of colorectal carcinogenesis." However, present colorectal cancer classifications do not define GALT carcinoma as a separate histologic category.

Anthropogenic activity like Industrialization has unleashed vast quantities of organic pollutants, including heavy metals. The hazardous heavy metals can cause cancer, neurocognitive defects and wide-ranging health problems. The pollutants resist environmental degradation and can often accumulate in the environment. Microbial degradation of pollutants is a potentially efficient solution for pollution remediation. Amongst the heavy metals, lead contamination resulting from anthropogenic activity have resulted in tragic consequences since the advent of human civilization, even in 21^st century as demonstrated by the Flint water crisis in the US. Bioremediation of lead from the environment could be attempted by various strategies, including mitigation of human activity that causes it in the first place. Microbiome, specifically bacteria, mediated bioremediation can serve as a potent platform for remediating environmental pollution with heavy metals such as lead. Herein we will review the mechanisms and methods of microbial bioremediation of environmental heavy metals with a focus on lead and highlight the challenges and opportunities.

This research project examines the influence of propagandistic content on Facebook during the 2023 sectional elections in Imbabura, Ecuador. It draws attention to the strategic communication requirements that align with generational preferences and the distinctive characteristics of each digital platform. The objective is to elucidate the influence of such content on voting decisions and public perceptions of candidates. A case study approach was employed, integrating discourse analysis through Atlas.ti and the application of factor analysis to survey interpretation. The findings revealed that specific content, such as memes, exerts a notable influence on the younger electorate. This influence is reinforced by communication strategies that emphasise the frequency and repetition of this content, although no direct correlation with key demographic variables was found. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that a communication strategy devoid of value con-tent reduces social networks to mere information channels, akin to open television. In conclusion, the study emphasises the necessity for digital communication strategies that prioritise the crea-tion of valuable content for audiences, with the aim of fostering a more discerning and engaged electorate.

It is a great challenge to prepare efficient and stable electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution (HER) using non-precious metals. In this study, a series of PtCo/Ti3C2Tx-Y (Y: 16, 32, and 320, Y indicates the quality of Co(NO3)2) catalyst was synthesized by loading PtCo alloy on Ti3C2Tx. The PtCo/Ti3C2Tx-32 exhibited the best HER performance with low overpotentials (36 and 101 mV) to reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2, and small Tafel slopes (66.37 and 105.17 mV dec-1) in 0.5 mol L-1 H2SO4 and 1 mol L-1 KOH solution. The excellent HER activity and stability of PtCo/Ti3C2Tx-32 can be attributed as follows: Ti3C2Tx has a unique two-dimensional structure, which can provide a large number of attachment sites for the PtCo alloy, thus exposing more active sites; on the other hand, it can provide a fast and efficient conductive network for electron transport during electrocatalytic processes, thus enhancing the connectivity between electrolyte and catalyst. PtCo alloy makes the PtCo/Ti3C2Tx catalyst more hydrophilic, which can accelerate the release rate of bubbles. The DFT calculation results showed that the energy barrier of HER is reduced because the charge around Pt is redistributed by Co after alloying Pt and Co, so that PtCo/Ti3C2Tx catalyst has a suitable ΔGH* value. This study can be expected to provide some references for the design and synthesis of Ti3C2Tx supported alloy electrocatalysts with high activity and stability for HER.

Let $\mathcal{M}(\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C}))$ be the moduli space of $\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C})$-Higgs bundles over a compact Riemann surface $X$ of genus $g\geq 2$. It admits a system, called Hitchin integrable system, induced by the Hitchin map, whose fibers are Prym varieties. Also, the triality automorphism of $\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C})$ acts on $\mathcal{M}(\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C}))$ and those Higgs bundles that admit a reduction of structure group to $G_2$ are fixed points of this action. This defines a map of moduli spaces of Higgs bundles $\mathcal{M}(G_2)\rightarrow\mathcal{M}(\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C}))$. In this work, the action of the triality automorphism is extended to an action on the Hitchin integrable system associated to $\mathcal{M}(\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C}))$. In particular, it is checked that the map $\mathcal{M}(G_2)\rightarrow\mathcal{M}(\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C}))$ restricts to a map at the level of the Prym varieties induced by the Hitchin map. Necessary and sufficient conditions are also provided for the Prym varieties associated with the moduli spaces of $G_2$ and $\text{Spin}(8,\mathbb{C})$-Higgs bundles to be disconnected. Finally, some consequences are drawn from the above results in relation to the geometry of the Prym varieties involved.

One of the goals of Oman vision 2040 is to attain a 30% of renewable energy mix, mainly from solar and wind energy projects for electricity generation by 2030, in alignment with the net zero emissions commitment by 2050. The adoption of residential rooftop solar PV installations supports achieving this target. This paper aims to find the suitable regions for rooftop solar PV installations by considering the factors, such as temperature levels, dust accumulation, humidity and population density. In the Middle East countries like Oman, dust from sandstorms significantly affects the performance of PV systems and is an important derating factor to consider when evaluating their performance as discussed in this paper. This paper starts by finding the suitable regions in Oman for solar PV projects based on geographical factors and then proceeds to find the best locations in the selected region. A rooftop solar PV system is designed, analyzed its performance and Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) was calculated for smart bus stop load located in the selected region’s university of technology and applied sciences (UTAS) campus using analytical method. The results obtained through analytical method were compared with System Advisor Model (SAM) software. Key findings from the study: The northern region of Oman was identified as the most suitable region to install the solar PV systems. In the northern regions, Ibri is the best location for rooftop solar PV projects compared to other locations. However other locations are also competitively suitable for solar PV projects. The LCOE of all UTAS branch locations ranges from 8.5 ¢/kWhr to 9.7¢/kWhr. Due to local weather conditions, Salalah has a higher LCOE of solar PV system than other location. After finding the most suitable locations, attractive rooftop policies in solar PV of successful countries are discussed, based on that few strong strategies are suggested to develop rooftop solar PV projects in Oman.

The Dutch PET@home Toolkit was developed to mitigate challenges and foster conversations and planning concerning pets in long-term care at home. This process evaluation study aimed to evaluate the practical application of the toolkit on four topics: 1) satisfaction; 2) relevance; 3) feasibility; and 4) integration of the PET@home Toolkit materials in home care. Outcomes may be used to improve the toolkit materials to better align with the long-term care at home setting. Accounting for data saturation, professional caregivers (N=6), clients (N=2), and family caregivers (N=2) who used toolkit materials participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were analysed by two researchers in ATLAS.ti using an inductive-iterative approach. The researchers reached consensus on themes and clustering within interview topics. This led to the identification of the following topics and (themes): satisfaction (general impression, suggestions for improvement), relevance (awareness, planning, pet-related aspects in practice, impact on healthcare quality), feasibility (healthcare practice, competence, quantity), and implementation (digitalisation, task owner, piloting, timing). Several improvements were made to toolkit materials, such as providing clearer instructions for clients in the information booklet. Participants acknowledged the toolkit could lead to better planning while mitigating potential challenges concerning pets which may lead to longer-lasting relationships between clients and their pets.

Objective To screen and systematically analyze the differential proteins in rats suffer from SCI after treating with HPL and thus explore the therapeutic mechanism of HPL on SCI rats. Method 30 SD rats were selected and randomly divided into three groups: control group, injury group, and treatment group. Allen Test was performed to establish the rat models with injured spinal cord, and2 mL of HPL was intraperitoneally injected into rats in the treatment group every day. After 14 consecutive days of injection, the thoracic spine of rats was sampled and analyzed by proteomics. Result A total of 61 differential proteins were screened in the injury and treatment groups, including 7 up-regulated proteins and 14 down-regulated proteins. The GO enrichment analysis results showed that the differential proteins included cellular components such as ATP dependent chromatin remodeling complex composed of multiple subunits, recycling endosome, extracellular space, and ATP synthase complex. These differential proteins promote serine-type endopeptidase inhibitor activity, myosin-binding protein and peptidase inhibitor molecular functions, and are involved in biological processes including fibrinolysis, sulfur component synthesis and metabolism, cellular modification of amino acid metabolism, and myelination. The KEGG analysis results mainly suggested the therapeutic mechanism of HPL for SCI through nitrogen metabolism, sodium taurocholate hydrate, complement coagulation cascade, and alcoholic liver disease. Conclusion HPL has a good therapeutic effect on SCI via the bioinformatic mechanisms above.

Identification of topical research issues using bibliometric data is complicated by the fact that the citation of publications from recent years has not yet been formed. In this paper, it is proposed to use the average citation of the journal over two years rather than the article citation to estimate to estimate the weight of the keyword occurring in the sample under consideration. In order to identify the terms that characterize relevant research topics, it is proposed to represent the term co-occurrence network in coordinates of the average occurrence of the term per year and the average normalized citation of the term to visualize the graph. Furthermore, this methodology proposes the use of preprocessing of keywords using a lemmatization dictionary. 3,696 bibliometric records for 2022–2024 from the ScienceDirect platform on the topic of industry digitalization were used for the analysis. The VOSviewer and Scimago Graphica programs were used sequentially. The former was used to display the overall landscape of the study, while the latter was used to analyze in more detail the individual slices of bibliometric data obtained with VOSviewer. A ‘convex hull’ was used to facilitate the perception of cluster boundaries. After analysing the data and highlighting the terms, it is proposed to provide context by quoting strings from publications and defining of lesser-known terms. The industry digitalization is not only a technical and technological issue but also an economic one, as evidenced by terms such as ‘digital economy’ and ‘Industry 5.0’.

This article introduces a new paradigm in nutritional science for long-term weight management, based on the integration of bioneurofeedback and bioimpedance analysis. Bioneurofeedback, a technique that combines the monitoring of physiological parameters with the modulation of brain activity, is employed to improve the self-regulation of eating behaviors by adjusting brainwave activity and reducing stress. Bioimpedance analysis provides a precise evaluation of body com-position, enabling the personalization of interventions according to individual physiological and metabolic characteristics. This integrated approach utilizes the principles of cybernetics and complex systems theory to better understand the interaction between mind and body, enhancing weight regulation through a dual top-down and bottom-up strategy. Additionally, the article discusses how an excess or deficiency in specific brainwaves can affect disordered eating behaviors, proposing biofeedback integration as a method to mitigate the yo-yo effect and promote sus-tainable lifestyle changes.

In our previous study of 291 cancer patients, we showed that 20% did not respond to two doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered six weeks apart. Here we investigated if psychological factors (distress, anxiety and depressive symptoms) affected antibody response and markers of vaccine activation (D-dimer) after 6 months from initial vaccination. Overall, 31 subjects (14.2%) had no antibody response at 6 months. Our analysis revealed significant predictors of vaccine failure, including stage of metastatic disease and high stress levels (OR=2.46, 95% CI, 1.05-5.77, p=0.04). Notably, nonresponders showed twice the prevalence of distress than responders (21% vs. 10%, p=0.04). Longitudinal measurements of IgG levels indicated that participants with high depressive symptoms at baseline maintained lower antibody levels over six months (p=0.003). In addition, women with high anxiety showed reduced levels of D-dimer at 6 month time (p=0.03). The data also showed that smokers and former smokers had significantly lower antibody levels than their nonsmoking counterparts (p=0.0004). At baseline, the high discomfort rate (≥5) was 34.4% in women and 23.8% in men; only men experienced an increase in median discomfort during the observation period. Moreover, higher educational level was related to increased distress among women (p=0.046). These findings underscore a critical association between elevated psychological distress and reduced immune responses to the COVID-19 vaccine, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted psychological and behavioral support within this vulnerable population.

Urban biodiversity is crucial for ecological security, balance, and fostering residents' awareness of human-nature interconnectedness. Birds, as urban ecosystem indicators, reflect ecosystem services and are impacted by urban development. This study examined the distribution characteristics and environmental influences on representative bird species from typical ecological groups in Beijing, analyzing critical habitat locations and forecasting potential ecological corridors in light of urban planning. Distribution of six representative ecological groups of birds (song birds, terrestrial birds, climbing birds, aquatic birds, wading birds, raptor birds) in 2019 were constructed using kernel density analysis. The predicted potential distribution and contribution of environmental impact factors for six bird species (Falco tinnunculus, Ardea alba, Aix galericulata, Dendrocopos canicapillus, Streptopelia chinensis, Turdus mandarinus) were obtained using MaxEnt model. The potential ecological corridors were constructed by least-cost distance model. The results showed that: (1) Distribution density of bird groups was higher near water bodies and parks due to existing urban planning; (2) Blue-green corridors, including greenways and waterways, enhanced urban bird diversity; (3) Potential ecological corridors for six representative bird species primarily featured forested areas, with varied habitat type proportions tailored to each species' needs. Recommendations propose enhancing green-space connectivity and multi-habitat restoration for key species. This study underscores the need for refined urban planning strategies emphasizing diverse habitats and migration pathways, aiming to create sustainable living areas and ecological corridors. It also encourages utilizing platforms for birdwatching and public biological observation data to optimize urban biodiversity.

In the papers [1–5] using synthetic methods and the facts from the conics theory in the Euclidean, pseudo-Euclidean, quasi-hyperbolic and hyperbolic planes, we have studied and proved numerous facts related to the cuspidal curves with emphasis on evolutes and Steiner’s deltoid. In this paper, the intention is to see what can be said about the curve of centers in some special pencil of conics and to show how, studying the center curves in the special pencil of conics a connection with Steiner’s deltoid curve has been found.

The general-purpose Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) detector at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN studies a production of new particles in the proton-proton collisions at the LHC center of mass energy 13.6 TeV. The detector includes the magnet based on the 6 m diameter superconducting solenoid coil operating with the current of 18.164 kA. This current creates a central magnetic flux density of 3.8 T that allows to measure momenta of the produced in collisions charged particles with tracking and muon subdetectors at a high precision. The CMS magnet contains a 10,000 ton flux-return yoke made of construction steel that bends muons in steel blocks magnetized with the solenoid returned magnetic flux. To reconstruct the muon trajectories, and thus, to measure the muon momenta, the drift tube and cathode strip chambers are located between the layers of the steel blocks and serve for this purpose. To describe the distribution of the magnetic flux in the magnet yoke layers, a three-dimensional computer model of the CMS magnet is used. To prove the calculations, the special measurements are performed with the flux loops wound in 22 cross-sections of the flux-return yoke blocks. The measured voltages induced in the flux loops during the CMS magnet ramp ups and downs, as well as during the superconducting coil fast discharges with the 190 s time constant, are integrated over time to obtain the initial magnetic flux densities in the flux loop cross-sections. The measurements obtained during the seven standard ramp downs of the magnet have been analyzed in 2018. From that time three fast discharges are occurred during the standard ramp downs of the magnet. This allows to single out the contributions of the eddy currents, induced in steel, to the flux loop voltages registered during the fast discharges of the coil. Accounting for these contributions to the flux loop measurements during manually triggered fast discharges in 2006 allows to perform the validation of the CMS magnet computer model with a better precision. The technique of the flux loop measurements, and the obtained results are presented and discussed.

The present article provides a thorough examination of innovationology, a groundbreaking transdisciplinary field of study that is revolutionizing the concepts and methods associated with innovation, economic growth, and worldwide sustainable transformation. This work provides unparalleled insights into the transformative potential of innovationology, drawing on a comprehensive review of literature across diverse fields such as development economics, sustainability science, social entrepreneurship, transition studies, complexity theory, decolonial thought, and design thinking. In presenting innovationology as a force for systemic, multidimensional economic change, the paper explores the strong theoretical underpinnings, creative approaches, and elite case studies that highlight the groundbreaking science's extraordinary influence. Through a rigorous, evidence-based examination, the author provides policymakers, researchers, and practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of innovationology's capacity to redefine the principles and practices of wealth creation, inclusive growth, sustainable finance, and community-centric entrepreneurship. Anchored in real-world case studies from the Global North and South, the article demonstrates innovationology's potential to drive progress towards a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous global economy. By challenging dominant neoclassical paradigms and offering a decolonial, transdisciplinary framework for economic transformation, this work presents a groundbreaking pathway to a just, sustainable, and inclusive economic future.

The Blue Economy is a multi-layered economy in its content, although it only reflects the relation between sea and business. Shipping is an essential part of it and with the largest market share. Sustainable shipping, however, requires the sustainability of a number of components that make it up. One of them, and perhaps the most important, is the training of marine personnel and in particular ship’s crew. Education is a key process that does not complete with graduation in the educational institution, as the foundations of professional training are laid there. An increasingly common practice by shipping companies is postgraduate training as ship officer seminars and refresher courses. This article investigates the results of surveys and interviews with officers and engineers from various shipping companies regarding the effectiveness of this type of training. A detailed analysis of strengths and weaknesses in the context of the principles of andragogy science and the Lifelong Learning strategy is in order. The article summarizes author’s experience from their sea practice as officers of the watch and Masters on board of merchant vessels and participants in postgraduate education and training as well.

This study explores the application of multi-real option valuation integrated with Security Token Offerings (STO) as an innovative approach to real estate project financing, using the Aspen Resort development as a case study. Traditional Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) methods often fall short in capturing the dynamic nature of long-term real estate projects, particularly in adapting to market uncertainties and changes. This research addresses these limitations by employing a multi-real option model, which allows for flexibility in decision-making by evaluating various investment phases through the binomial lattice framework. The analysis demonstrates that the STO-based project financing (STO-PF) model, when applied to the Aspen Resort, provides superior financial outcomes and strategic advantages compared to conventional DCF methods. Key findings reveal that the STO-PF model enhances liquidity, democratizes investment access, and offers improved risk management through digital platforms. The results showcase how integrating STOs with real option models quantifies the project’s expanded net present value (ENPV), thereby optimizing investment decisions under volatile market conditions. This study not only contributes theoretically to the literature on STO financing but also provides practical implications for developers seeking flexible and innovative financing solutions in real estate. Future research should explore the applicability of STOs across diverse market conditions and regulatory environments, including the integration of emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain for enhanced financial modeling.

We have previously shown that 2-thiouridine (S2U), either as a single nucleoside or as an element of RNA chain, is effectively desulfurized under applied in vitro oxidative conditions. Chemically induced desulfuration of S2U resulted in two products: 4-pyrimidinone nucleoside (H2U) and uridine (U). Recently, we investigated whether desulfuration of S2U is a natural process that also occurs in cells exposed to oxidative stress or whether it only occurs in the test tube during chemical reaction with oxidants at high concentrations. Using different types of eukaryotic cells, such as baker's yeast, human cancer cells or modified HEK293 cells with impaired antioxidant system, we confirmed that 5-substituted 2-thiouridines are oxidatively desulfurized in the wobble position of the anticodon of some tRNAs. Quantitative LC-MS/MS-MRMhr analysis of nucleoside mixtures obtained from hydrolyzed tRNA revealed the presence of desulfuration products of mcm5S2U: mcm5H2U and mcm5U modifications. We also observed some amounts of immature cm5S2U, cm5H2U and cm5U products, which may indicate a disruption of an enzymatic modification pathway at the C5 position of 2-thiouridine. The observed process, which is triggered by oxidative stress in living cells, could impair the function of 2-thiouridine-containing tRNAs and alter the translation of genetic information.

Background: Infections caused by S. aureus strains encoding Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL-SA) have become increasingly relevant in community settings and can cause severe conditions in pediatric populations. We present a pediatric case of invasive disease caused by PVL-SA and provide a literature review of severe manifestations caused by these strains in children. Methods: A PubMed search (February 2024) evidenced studies that included relevant clinical outcomes, diagnostics, and treatments, excluding cases of asymptomatic infection or adult populations. Logistical multivariate analysis was used to find predictors of the need for intensive care. Results: A 10-year-old boy came to the attention of our Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit with fever, chest pain, and tachypnea. A rapid worsening of his clinical conditions was observed, with the development of necrotizing pneumonia, osteomyelitis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and multiple abscesses. Blood cultures confirmed the presence of PVL-producing methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The initial treatment included linezolid and ceftaroline and was later adjusted to clindamycin, daptomycin, and fosfomycin, with clinical improvement. Discussion: Our review collected 36 articles, including 156 pediatric cases of severe PVL-SA infection. Bacteremia was present in 49% of cases, lung infection in 47%, and osteomyelitis in 37%. The presence of pulmonary localization was predictive of the need for intensive care, O.R. 25.35 (7.46 - 86.09; p&lt;0.001). Anti-toxin molecules were used in about half the cases where information on treatment was reported. Our report highlights the capacity of PVL-SA to cause life-threatening complications in children, while also discussing the full range of its clinical spectrum and the most effective therapeutic approaches.