The photocatalytic biohydrogen generation using ZnO with the aid of simultaneous deposition of copper from an aqueous biomass-derivative glycerol solution was investigated. The effects of concentration of glycerol solution, Cu ion concentration and reaction temperature on biohydrogen generation were investigated. The photocatalytic biohydrogen production rate increased with increasing the concentration of aqueous glycerol solution, and the observed data could be fitted to the Langmuire-Hinshelwood kinetic models. The photocatalytic H2 production efficiency with ZnO could be significantly improved by simultaneous Cu deposition. The photocatalytic biohydrogen production rate was dependent on temperature, and increased with the increasing temperature. The possible mechanisms for oxidation of glycerol solution and photocatalytic hydrogen generation were proposed.

Here we report highly efficient, indium tin oxide (ITO)-free polymer solar cells (PSCs) with an ultrathin copper (Cu) film(~10 nm) coated with a thin layer of poly[(9,9-bis(3‘-(N,N-dimethylamino)propyl)-2,7-fluorene)-alt-2,7-(9,9-dioctylfluorene)] (PFN) as transparent electrode. Despite of its lower far-field transmittance of the electrode, the obtained ITO-free device based on the ultrathin Cu film can delivery higher absorption efficiency than that of the device based on ITO substrate in the long wavelength region, which can be attributed to the formation of metal resonant microcavity between the opaque back metal mirror (MoO3/Al electrode) and the transparent Cu film with high reflectance. As a result, polymer solar cells based on poly[[2,6'-4,8-di(5-ethylhexylthienyl)benzo[1,2-b;3,3-b]dithiophene][3-fluoro-2[(2-ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno[3,4-b]thiophenediyl]] (PTB7-Th) and [6,6]-phenyl C71-butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) blend show a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.21 %, comparable to that of the control device based on ITO electrode (with a PCE of 9.60% ). The results demonstrate that thermally evaporated Cu thin film electrode can be promising candidate to replace ITO for highly efficient PSCs, thus may open up the possibility for massive production of PSCs with low cost.

In order to understand the hot deformation behavior of novel Cu/Al laminated composites, isothermal hot compression tests were conducted by Gleeble-1500D thermo-mechanical simulator. And the effect of bonding interface, deformation temperature and strain rate on the deformation behavior was analyzed. Results show that under the interface constraint effect, soft Al layer trends to flow synchronously with hard Cu layer. And further microstructure examinations indicate the cooperative deformation capability of Cu/Al composites increases with increasing stain rate and decreasing deformation temperature. Strain hardening exponent, calculated based on the true stress-true strain data, also proves the effect of deformation temperature and strain rate on the cooperative deformation behavior. Meanwhile, unique composites structure allows the Al matrix to exhibit the characteristic of dynamic recrystallization during the hot deformation process. Lastly, strain compensated Arrhenius-type constitutive equation was employed to describe the coupling effect of temperature, strain rate and strain on the flow stress.

Streptococcus mutans is a key bacterium in dental caries- one of the most prevalent chronic infectious diseases. Conventional treatment both fails to specifically target the pathogenic bacteria and at-tempts to eradicate commensal bacteria as well. Thus, caries remains one of most common and challenging diseases. The use of bacterial viruses as anti-bacterial agents, is gaining interest worldwide. Hardly any phages were described against S. mutans. The objective of this study was to isolate anti-S. mutans phages and to characterize their antimi-crobial properties. Human saliva samples were filtered and screened for potential phages. Standard double-layered agar method was used for isolation. Whole genome sequence analysis and morphology visualization by TEM, were used for anti-S. mutans phage identification. Antibacterial properties were evaluated using clinical strains and ATCC strains of S. mutans in various states. Antibacterial effect was also tested on human cariogenic dentin. One phage against S. mutans was isolated and termed SMHBZ8. This phage showed effective lytic activity in vitro against both planktonic and biofilm S. mutans cultures. Moreover, the phage showed antibacterial effect when used on cariogenic dentin. The isolation and characterization of SMHBZ8 may be the first step in developing a potential phage therapy for dental caries.

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

During shearer operation, piston rod is susceptible to wear from invasion of pollutants, and then ruins sealing ring in hydraulic cylinder. This work attempts to conduct a systematical investigation of Cu-DLC (Cu-doped Diamond-like Carbon) film to improve the seal performance. Failure process of hydraulic cylinder was analyzed, and relevant parameters were determined. Several Cu-DLC films were deposited on the substrate of piston rod in a multi-ion beam assisted system, and their structures and combined tribological performances were investigated. As a result, dust particles attached to the piston rod may enter the cylinder, and damage the sealing ring under the radial force. Cu grains prefer to orientate (111) crystal plane with increase of Cu content, and may induce drop of hardness and internal stress for the film. Friction coefficient of the film ranges from 0.04 to 0.15, and rise of IG/ID ratio from 1.4 to 2.3 in Raman data indicates that bond transition from sp3-C to sp2-C may lower the friction coefficient. Modification mechanism of Cu-DLC film for the seal performance may come from synergistic effects of (i) contact force and friction heat induce the film graphitization, (ii) Cu doping improves toughness of the film and acts as a solid lubricant, and (iii) transfer layer plays a role of self-lubrication.

Renewable methanol, obtained from CO₂ and hydrogen provided from renewable energy, has been proposed as a way to close the CO₂ loop. In industry, methanol synthesis using the catalyst CuO/ZnO/Al₂O₃ occurs at a high pressure. We intend to make certain modification on the traditional catalyst in order to work at lower pressure, maintaining high selectivity. Therefore, three heterogeneous catalysts have been synthesized by co-precipitation in order to improve the activity and the selectivity to methanol under mild conditions of temperature and pressure. Certain modifications on the traditional catalyst Cu/Zn/Al₂O₃ were employed such as the modification of the synthesis time and the addition of Pd as a dopant agent. The most efficient catalyst among those tested was a palladium-doped catalyst, 5% Pd/Cu/Zn/Al₂O₃. This had a selectivity of 64% at 210C and 5 bar.

A series of dinuclear copper(I) N,C,N- and P,C,P-carbodiphosphorane (CDP) complexes using multidentate ligands CDP(Py)2 (1) and (CDP(CH2PPh2)2 (13) have been isolated and characterized. Detailed structural information was gained by single crystal XRD analyses of nine representative examples. The common structural motive is the central double ylidic carbon atom with its characteristic two lone-pairs involved into binding of two geminal L-Cu(I) fragments at Cu-Cu distances in the range 2.55 – 2.67 Å. In order to enhance conformational rigidity within the characteristic Cu-C-Cu triangle, two types of chelating side arms were symmetrically attached to each phosphorus atom: two 2-pyridyl functions in ligand CDP(Py)2 (1) and its dinuclear copper complexes 2-9 and 11, as well as two diphenylphosphinomethylene functions in ligand CDP(CH2PPh2)2 (13) and its di- and mononuclear complexes 14-18. Neutral complexes were typically obtained via reaction of 1 with Cu(I) species CuCl, CuI, and CuSPh or via salt elimination reaction of [(CuCl)2(CDP(Py)2] (2) with sodium carbazolate. Cationic Cu(I) complexes were prepared upon treating 1 with two equivalents of [Cu(NCMe)4]PF6, followed by the addition of either two equivalent of an aryl phosphine (PPh3, P(C6H4OMe)3) or one equivalent of a bisphosphine ligands DPEPhos, XantPhos or dppf. For the first time carbodiphosphorane CDP(CH2PPh2)2 (13) could be isolated upon treating its precursor [CH(dppm)2]Cl (12) with NaNH2 in liquid NH3. A protonated and a deprotonated derivative of ligand 13 were prepared and their coordination was compared to neutral CDP ligand 13. NMR analysis and DFT calculations reveal, that the most stable tautomer of 13 does not show a CDP (or carbone) structure in its uncoordinated base form. For most of the prepared complexes, photoluminescence upon irradiation with UV light at room temperature was observed. Quantum yields (PL) were determined to 36% for dicationic [(CuPPh3)2(CDP(Py)2)](PF6)2 (4) and to 60% for neutral [(CuSPh)2(CDP(CH2PPh2)2] (16).

Researchers from around the world are looking for better and cheaper ozone production. One of the methods increasing the efficiency of ozone production is the use to a rotating electrode presented in this paper. Experiments were carried out which shows that the most important parameters are the materials used on the electrodes and the condition of its surface. The metallographic investigations of the electrodes after continuous monthly work was made, which show how the raids layers are formed. As a result of working in a highly oxidizing environment, the electrode is oxidized in the process of chemical corrosion. It is obvious that the layer of corrosion products created during the work of the plasma reactor isolates the surface of the electrode, which reduces the intensity of the electric field, causing a decrease in the amount of plasma generated, which is a direct cause of lowering the concentration of ozone during this process. The dynamics of plasma generation process and the type of electrode material working in changing process conditions are the decisive factors influencing the concentration of ozone produced. The influence of the medium, which is the electrode material, depends mainly on its resistance to corrosion in the environment of dynamically changing conditions, e.g. electrode rotation, oxygen flow through the rotating electric field and the long monthly working time of the plasma reactor.

Neurological disorders are the leading cause of cognitive and physical disability worldwide, affecting 15% of the global population. Due to the demographics of aging, the prevalence of neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, will double over the next two decades. Unfortunately, while available therapies provide symptomatic relief for cognitive and motor impairment, there is an urgent unmet need to develop disease-modifying therapies that slow the rate of pathological progression. In that context, biomarkers could identify at-risk and prodromal patients, monitor disease progression, track response to therapy, and parse causality of molecular events to identify novel targets for further clinical investigation. Thus, identifying biomarkers that discriminate between diseases and reflect specific stages of pathology would catalyze the discovery and development of therapeutic targets. This review will describe the prevalence, known mechanisms, ongoing or recently concluded therapeutic clinical trials, and biomarkers of three of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Background: A significant proportion of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients develops respiratory failure. Thromboembolism is also prevalent in coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). Vitamin K plays a role in coagulation and possibly also in lung diseases. We therefore hypothesized that vitamin K is implicated in Covid-19 pathogenesis. Methods: 134 Covid-19 patients and 184 controls were included. Inactive vitamin K-dependent matrix Gla protein (i.e.dp-ucMGP) and prothrombin (i.e. PIVKA-II) were measured, which are inversely related to respectively extrahepatic and hepatic vitamin K status. Desmosine was measured to quantify elastic fiber degradation. Lung involvement and arterial calcifications severity were assessed by computed tomography. Results Dp-ucMGP was elevated in Covid-19 patients compared to controls (P=0.001). Higher dp-ucMGP was found in Covid-19 patients with poor compared to better outcomes (P=0.002). PIVKA-II was normal in 81.8%, mildly elevated in 14.0% and moderately elevated in 4.1% of Covid-19 patients not using vitamin K antagonists. Dp-ucMGP in Covid-19 patients was correlated with desmosine (P<0.001), thoracic aortic calcification (P<0.001) but not with pneumonia severity. Conclusions: Extrahepatic vitamin K status was severely reduced in Covid-19 patients, as reflected by elevated inactive MGP, and related to poor outcome. Procoagulant prothrombin activity remained preserved in the majority of Covid-19 patients, which is compatible with the increased thrombogenicity that is frequently observed in severe Covid-19. Impaired MGP activation was linked to accelerated elastic fiber degradation and premorbid vascular calcifications. A trial should assess whether increasing MGP and protein S activity by vitamin K administration improves Covid-19 outcomes.

The SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome)-CoV (Coronavirus)-2 S(spike)-protein mRNA/cDNA currently being used as vaccines are antigenic but not antigens against SARS-CoV-2, that causes COVID (Coronavirus Disease) -19. Furthermore, the mRNA and cDNA antigenic vaccines also have potentials for homologous as well as heterologous recombination, primarily into the somatic cell DNA of the vaccine recipients. On the contrary, a SARS-CoV-2 RBD-protein antigen, a part of the S-protein, will directly stimulate antibody production against SARS-CoV-2. Hence, a vaccine composed of SARS-CoV-2 RBD-protein as a safer, fast acting, and effective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 and thus against COVID-19. This is also useful for some immune compromised individuals.

Diagnostics is believed to drive about 70% of medical interventions, but this may not be true for all demographics. With more than 30% of the African population living in extreme poverty ($1.9 per day - 2022); and healthcare costs competing unfavorably against unbridled access to antibiotics and herbal concoctions, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, how do you convince such a people to choose diagnostics first? More importantly, how do you design a medical device targeted at meeting the diagnostic needs of this demographic? In developing diagnostic devices for such a market, what is worth sacrificing? How dire is the need for advanced technologies in devices developed for such a demographic? These are questions that remain unaddressed by the technological breakthroughs and current research in medical device development, especially for infectious disease diagnostics. The objective of this paper is to underscore critical concerns which must be considered in the bid to successfully design medical diagnostic devices for Africa and perhaps, other limited-resource settings. It is also written as a suggestive guidance document for researchers whose interest is in the development of infectious disease diagnostic platforms for rural Africa and similar limited-resource environments.

Formation of Fe- and Mg-rich smectite and zeolite under alkaline conditions is concerned as secondary minerals after alkaline alteration of bentonite in a repository of radioactive wastes. It might be crucial for safety assessment whether smectite will be formed or not as secondary minerals after alkaline alteration of bentonite. In present paper, Fe- and Mg-rich smectite which are currently interacting with hyperalkaline groundwater was found at Narra in Palawan, Philippines. Mineralogical and geochemical investigation was conducted to understand formation process of smectite and factors determined secondary mineral species. Our study revealed a certain amount of smectite may have been produced under hyperalkaline conditions, altered from amorphous or poorly crystalline material such as M-S-H and F-S-H. Key factor which decides smectite or zeolite as secondary minerals after alkaline alteration of bentonite might be whether nuclei of M-S-H and/or F-S-H will be formed or not. This might be decided by the presence of dissolved Mg2+ and Fe2+ in the system. Our suggested formation process of smectite under alkaline conditions is analogue with generally-accepted model of smectite formation that might have been occurred on early Mars.

Urban tourism has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by various factors that foster the transformation of urban areas into tourist hotspots. These factors include a rising interest in culture and heritage, ongoing urban redevelopment and conversion processes, and the introduction of new experiences and activities. Two particularly influential factors contributing to this growth are low-cost travel, which facilitates more accessible access to urban destinations, and the emergence of new types of accommodation, such as short-term rental (also known as local accommodation or Airbnb-type accommodation). This sudden and continuous growth of this type of tourist accommodation brings new challenges to cities and local communities. On the positive side, it contributes to job opportunities, the dynamism of the local economy, and urban revitalization. On the other hand, it also represents more difficulty in retaining the local population in city centers, as more and more buildings are converted into hostels and tourist apartments. In this context, it becomes essential to conduct studies evaluating the impacts of these dynamics in urban areas and how they influence residents' and visitors' perspectives. Therefore, this study aims to identify the main transformations resulting from short-term rental (STR) development, focusing on the impacts felt by tourists and residents in Porto. A questionnaire was distributed to tourists and residents in Porto's city center in June 2023. The results reveal differences in opinions between tourists and residents, particularly concerning historical heritage preservation, local population relocation, and reduced housing availability for residents. Nevertheless, there is a similarity in their opinions regarding the stimulus that local accommodation brings to the economy and the rehabilitation of buildings and urban areas. This study reinforces the need to pay more attention to the future development of tourist accommodation in city centers, especially regarding local policies and territorial planning, to balance better tourism development and local communities' quality of life.

Although the empirical Kepler’s laws can be proven by applying Newton’s laws to the dynamics of two particles attracted due to the gravitational interaction, there is no explicit formula for the motion as a function of time. In this paper, a quasi-analytical solution for this problem is proposed. It approximates the real behavior of celestial bodies with an acceptable degree of accuracy. All calculations involved require a low computational cost. This problem is closely related to Kepler’s equation, since, the solution for the equations of motion as a function of time gives us the solution to Kepler’s equation as well. The results are presented for each planet of the solar system (including Pluto), and the solution is compared against the real orbits.

The conformity assessment of products or a measured value with the given standards is carried out based on the global risk of producers and consumers calculation. A product may conform to specifications but be falsely rejected as non-conforming. This is about the producer's risk. If a product doesn't meet the requirements but is falsely accepted as conforming, that poses a risk to the consumer. The conventional approach to risk assessment, which yields only a single numerical value for the global risk of producers and consumers, is naturally extended, and utilized for assessing risk in measurement models with linear regression. The outcomes of the two-dimensional extension, along a moderate scale, are the parabolas with an opening upwards. Risk surfaces were obtained through three-dimensional extension over the area limited by the moderate scale and guard band axes. Four models with different ranges of tolerance intervals were used to test this innovative method of risk assessment in linear regression. The corresponding standard measurement uncertainties are determined by applying a simplified measurement model with the use of comprehensive data on the measurement performance and by determining measurement uncertainty derived from consideration of the functional relationship obtained by linear regression analysis. Models that utilize information from linear regression analysis to determine measurement uncertainty are biased towards risks at the edges of the moderate scale. Testing the model's performances with metrics related to the confusion matrix, such as the F1 score, further substantiated this assertion. The diagnostic odds ratio has been proven to be extremely effective in identifying the curve along the guard band axis, along which the global risks of producers and consumers are at their lowest.

Let R be a commutative graded ring with unity, S be a multiplicative subset of homogeneous elements of R and P be a graded ideal of R such that P\bigcap S=\emptyset In this article, we introduce several results concerning graded S-prime ideals. Then we introduce the concept of graded weakly S-prime ideals which is a generalization of graded weakly prime ideals. We say that P is a graded weakly S-prime ideal of R if there exists s\in S such that for all x, y\in h(R), if 0\neq xy\in P, then sx\in P or sy\in P. We show that graded weakly S-prime ideals have many acquaintance properties to these of graded weakly prime ideals.

Multiple preventive vaccines are being developed to counter the COVID-19 pandemic. The leading candidates have now been evaluated in non-human primates (NHPs) and human Phase 1 and/or Phase 2 clinical trials. Several vaccines have already advanced into Phase 3 efficacy trials, while others will do so before the end of 2020. Here, we summarize what is known of the antibody and T-cell immunogenicity of these vaccines in NHPs and humans. To the extent possible, we compare how the vaccines have performed, taking into account the use of different assays to assess immunogenicity and inconsistencies in how the resulting data are presented. We also summarize the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 challenge experiments in immunized macaques, while noting variations in the protocols used, including but not limited to the virus challenge doses.

Cu-ions dispersed on reduced graphene RGo prepared and characterized in a liquid state in ethanol. Either constant ultrasounds or a sequence of ultrasounds (15s working, 15s stop) were applied for 6 min or 2h overall time, at a power of 500 W. Commercial graphite in ethanol was introduced at a concentration of 0.04 g/mL and CuCl2 2.5 H2O concentrations between 0.012 and 0.04 g/mL were used. The structural characterizations performed by XRD, microscopic, and spectroscopic techniques, after a centrifugation at 5000 rpm applied 12 min before Cu-introduction, led to conclude that: 1) Without copper, negative peaks in UV spectra were detected with concentrated pure graphene solutions, indicating light emission as nicely confirmed next by fluorescence measurements, 2) After addition of copper chloride and equilibration for 2 min , very intense and narrow peaks of intensity larger than 10 were observed. These peaks due to collective excitations generating plasmons were suppressed at a higher dilution and also if the cell with one cm optical path was replaced by a narrower cell with a 0.2 cm path. When plasmons were suppressed, in the UV spectral range, a band gap due to the energy transition between the valence filled  orbitals and conducting empty * orbitals, was observed. The presence of Cu (II) and Cu (I) cations were evidenced by Visible NIR spectroscopy. The formed “green” liquors containing Cu (II) Cu (I) /graphene in ethanol were stable in air for months and had good photocatalytic visible properties as demonstrated by the decomposition of two dyes.

In this study, the effects of combined addition of CeLa and GdY on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast Al-4Cu-1Mn alloys were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopies (TEM) and tensile testing. The results show that the minor addition of CeLa and GdY leads to the refinement of grain size. The addition of CeLa results in the formation of supersaturated vacancies in the Al matrix, whereas the addition of GdY leads to a decrease in the precipitation temperature of the Al2Cu phase. The combined CeLa and GdY addition can significantly increase ultimate tensile strength (UTS) while losing only a small amount of elongation (EL). Compared with the unmodified alloy, the grain size and SDAS of the alloy (0.2 wt% CeLa + 0.1 wt% GdY) were diminished by 67.2% and 58.7%, respectively, while maximum hardness and UTS rose by 31.2% and 36.9%, correspondingly.

Powder metallurgy is a preferred manufacturing method in various industries because it offers design flexibility, material efficiency and a cost-effective production. In this work, we study the effects of different compaction directions on the strength of parts produced by powder metallurgy. Al–4wt.%Cu alloys are used due to their recyclability, and three distinctive compaction pressures are applied, resulting in two sample groups. One group is air-cooled after sintering, while the other is water-quenched and naturally aged (T4 temper). Both the compressive and tensile strengths are measured and analyzed. The study reveals that both heat treatments and compaction directions significantly influence anisotropic strengths. The novelty of this research lies in the use of powders that can be reused from machining, turning, or foundry rejection. By omitting or reducing the melting stage and employing simple powder metallurgy, the cost-effective and environmentally friendly processes are achieved. The planning of compaction load, compaction direction, and heat treatments is found to play a crucial role in determining the final mechanical performance. Notably, this approach aligns with the environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices that have been increasingly adopted by industry.

It is found in this paper that ILR-RPCA-back CLR has two problems when dealing with the closure effect of geochemical data. (1) After ilr transformation, RPCA is used for processing. It can be seen from the double-plot diagram that the first principal component and the second principal component transform with the element sequence transformation, and the unique principal component cannot be calculated; (2) the score and the load are transformed into the CLR space through the U matrix. According to the formula CLR=ALR·U, the score result can correspond to the original order of elements. However, the load result obtained by the use of this formula cannot correspond to the original order of elements, and the result can only be obtained through the formula” CLR=UT·ALR”. In order to obtain the best element assemblage of porphyry copper deposit, this paper adopted the mineral assemblage of discovered deposits in Gangdese metallogenic belt for statistical analysis, and obtained that the element assemblage of porphyry copper deposit was Cu, Mo, Au, Ag, W, Bi. Then, by analyzing the singularities of the composite elements, the spatial overlay of the combined element is carried out, and C-A fractal filtering is applied to identify the anomaly and background. In order to facilitate comparison, the different minerals and ore deposit types have been analyzed, the results show that (1) in view of the porphyry copper deposits, recognition effect of combination elements are better than which single element, (2) skarn type copper deposit that it has nothing to do with the porphyry had a high degree of difference, but skarn type copper deposit related to the porphyry had a low degree of difference, (3) This method has a certain advantage over the single element method in porphyry gold deposits, and it can reduce the level of anomalies. Such an advantage is that in the aspect of anomaly evaluation of porphyry copper deposits, the level is reduced at the initial stage of evaluation to reduce the investment in such anomalies, (4) This method has limited ability to distinguish porphyry copper deposit from porphyry molybdenum deposit.

Copper is a heavy metal used in many industries and known for its negative impacts on the environment and human’s health. A novel structured metal organic framework (MOF) was used for copper adsorption for this work. SEM, EDAX, XRD and FTIR were done to confirm the structure of MOF prepared. MOF of 0.05 gm was used to examine its ability in Cu+ 2 removals with different initial concentrations of Cu+2 and pH values (5, 7 and 9). The prepared MOF was able to achieve Cu removal with 94.6%, 93%, 91.5%, and 92.5 % for the initial concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 ppm respectively. It also performed very well for pH 5 and 7 with average removal ranging from 93.9%-95% for pH 5 and 7 for the initial concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 respectively which indicate that the prepared MOF is of high ability in Cu+ 2 removal.

In this work, the ternary titanium, copper and silver (Ti-Cu-Ag) system is investigated as a potential candidate for the production of mechanically robust biomedical thin films. The coatings are produced by physical vapor deposition-magnetron sputtering (MS-PVD). The composite thin films are deposited on a silicon (100) substrate. The ratio between Ti and Cu was approximately kept one, with the variation of the Ag content between 10 and 35 at.%, while the power on the targets is changed during each deposition to get the desired Ag content. Thin film characterization is performed by x-ray diffraction (XRD), nanoindentation (modulus and hardness) and Atomic force microscopy to determine the surface topography. The residual stresses are measured by focused ion beam and digital image correlation method (FIB-DIC). The produced Ti-Cu-Ag thin films appear to be smooth, uniformly thick and exhibit amorphous structure for the Ag contents lower than 25 at.%, with a transition to partially crystalline structure for higher Ag concentrations. The Ti-Cu control film shows higher values of 124.5 GPa and 7.85 GPa for modulus and hardness respectively. There is a clear trend of continuous decrease in the modulus and hardness with the increase of Ag content, as lowest value of 105.5 GPa and 6 GPa for 35 at.% Ag containing thin films. In particular, a transition from the compressive (-36.5 MPa) to tensile residual stresses between 229 MPa and 288 MPa are observed with an increasing Ag content. The obtained results suggest that the Ag concentration should not exceed 25 at.%, in order to avoid an excessive reduction of the modulus and hardness with maintaining (at the same time) the potential for an increase of the antibacterial properties. In summary, Ti-Cu-Ag thin films shows characteristic mechanical properties that can be used to improve the properties of biomedical implants such as Ti-alloys and stainless steel.

In this study, the hot deformation of Cu-0.55Sn-0.08La (wt%) alloy was studied by gleeble-3180 testing machine at deformation temperatures of 400-700oC and various strain rates. The stress-strain curve showed that the hot deformation behavior of Cu-0.55Sn-0.08La (wt%) alloy was greatly affected by work hardening, dynamic recovery, and dynamic recrystallization. The activation energy Q was calculated as 287.141 kJ/mol , and hot compression constitutive equation was determined as ε ̇=[sinh(0.006388σ)]^12.123∙exp⁡(37.7505-287.141/RT). The microstructural evolution of the alloy during deformation at 400oC revealed the presence of both slip and shear bands in the grains. At 700oC, dynamic recrystallization grains were observed but recrystallization was incomplete. In sum, these results provided the theoretical basis for continuous extrusion process of alloys with promising future use.

The requirements for using noncyanide imitation gold plating as decorative electroplating are increasing; thus, continuously improving the quality of the coating of the imitation gold plating and optimizing the coating process have become the current priority. In this work, hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP) was used as the main complexing agent, CuSO4·5H2O, ZnSO4·7H2O and NaSnO3·3H2O were the main salts, and NaOH and anhydrous sodium carbonate were used as the buffers to prepare the electroplating solution. Using sodium citrate (SC), sodium potassium tartrate (SS), sodium gluconate (SG), and glycerol (Gl) as four additives, the effects of the number of carboxyl groups on the properties of a Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating were compared. The electrochemical analysis showed that Cu-Zn-Sn alloy codeposition occurred at -0.50 V vs. Hg|HgO. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that the particle size of the coatings obtained with carboxyl-containing additives was more uniform than that obtained with the electroplating solution without additives. The X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) analysis revealed that the composition of the Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating obtained by using SC as an additive in the electroplating solution was 89.75 wt% Cu, 9.61 wt% Zn, and 0.64 wt% Sn, and the color of the coating was golden yellow. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the coating was a mixture of Cu, Cu5Zn8, CuSn, Cu6Sn5, and CuZn phases. The analysis of the electroplating solution by UV, IR and NMR spectroscopy methods indicates that the additives improve the coating by affecting the complexation reaction of metal ions. These results can provide technical and theoretical guidance for developing Cu-Zn-Sn ternary alloy electrodeposition technology with the new cyanide-free HEDP alkaline electroplating system.

During quasi-stationary tensile deformation of ultrafine-grained Cu-0.2 mass%Zr at 673 K and a deformation rate of about 10⁻⁴ s⁻¹ load changes were performed. Relative load reductions by more than about 25% to relative loads R < 0.75 initiate anelastic back flow. Subsequently the creep rate turns positive again and goes through a relative maximum. This is interpreted by a strain rate contribution ε ̇− from recovery of dislocations. Back extrapolation indicates that ε ̇− contributes about (20 ± 10)% to the quasi-stationary strain rate. The stress dependences of the recovery-strain rate ε ̇− and the rate ε ̇+ related with generation and storage of dislocations are discussed in terms of thermally activated processes characterized by different kinetics.

We discuss two queueing-inventory systems with catastrophes in the warehouse. Catastrophes occur according to Poisson process and upon arrival of a catastrophe all inventory in the system is instantly destroyed. But consumer customers in the system (in the server or in the buffer) continue still waiting for the replenishment of the stock. The arrivals of the consumer customers follow a Markovian Arrival Process (MAP) and they can be queued in an infinite buffer. Service time of a consumer customer follows a phase-type distribution. The system receives negative customers whose have Poisson flows to service facility and upon arrival of a negative customer one consumer customer is pushed out from the system, if any. One of two replenishment policies can be used in the system: either (s,S) or (s,Q). If upon arrival of the consumer customer, the inventory level is zero, then according to the Bernoulli scheme, this customer is either lost (lost sale scheme) or join the queue (backorder sale scheme). The system is formulated by a four-dimensional continuous-time Markov chain. Steady state distribution is obtained using the matrix-geometric method. A comprehensive numerical study is performed on the performance measures under various replenishment policies. Finally, an optimization study is presented.

Single-Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S) is a modification of the duodenal switch in which only one anastomosis is performed, with a longer common limb and an expected less malabsorptive effect. The present study analyzes presentation and treatment of malnutrition after SADI-S. 258 consecutive patients undergoing SADI-S between May 2007 and September 2017 were included. The common limb length was 200 cm in 50 cases, 250 cm in 156 and 300 in 52. 30 patients were admitted for severe hypoalbuminemia and 16 patients were submitted to revisional surgery and constitute the series of our study. Mean weight before reoperation was 57 kg and mean body mass index (BMI) was 21 kg/m2. Mean number of daily bowel movements was 5,6. Mean time to reoperation was 56 months. Revisional surgery consisted mainly in elongation of the common limb. Mean weight regain was 14 kg and mean final BMI was 26 kg/m2. Daily bowel movements were decreased to 1,3. Factors related to hypoalbuminemia were hypertension, poor controlled diabetes, age over 55 years and a shorter common limb. Although SADI-S is expected to be less malabsorptive than previous biliopancreatic diversions, caution has to be taken with selected patients to avoid postoperative malnutrition.

Brain capillary endothelial cell(s) (BECs) have numerous functions including their semipermeable interface-barrier (transfer and diffusion of solutes), trophic (metabolic homeostasis), tonic (vascular hemodynamics), and trafficking (vascular permeability, coagulation, and leukocyte extravasation) functions to provide brain homeostasis. BECs also serve as the brain’s sentinel cell of the innate immune system and are capable of antigen presentation. In metabolic syndrome (MetS) there are two regions resulting in proinflammatory signaling of BECs. Namely, visceral adipose tissue depots supplying excessive peripheral cytokines/chemokines (pCC) and gut microbiota dysbiotic regions supplying excessive soluble lipopolysaccharide (sLPS), small LPS-enriched extracellular vesicle exosomes (lpsEVexos), and pCC. This dual signaling of BECs at their receptor sites results in BEC activation and dysfunction (BECact/dys) and neuroinflammation. sLPS and lpsEVexos signal BECs toll-like receptor four, which then signals translocated nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB). Translocated NFkB promotes the synthesis and secretion of BEC proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Specifically, the chemokine CCL5 (RANTES) is capable of attracting microglia cells to BECs. BEC neuroinflammation activates perivascular space(s) (PVS) resident macrophages. Excessive phagocytosis by reactive resident PVS macrophages results in a stagnation-like obstruction, which along with increased capillary permeability due to BECact/dys could expand the fluid volume within the PVS to result in enlarged PVS (EPVS). Importantly, this remodeling may result in pre- and post-capillary EPVS that would contribute to their identification on T2-weighted MRI, which are considered to be biomarkers for cerebral small vessel disease.

In this study, a modular multi-step photometric microflow injection analysis (micro-FIA) system for the automatic determination of Cu(II) in a bioreactor has been developed. The system incorporates diverse 3D-printed modules, including a platform formed by a mixer module to mix Cu(II) with hydroxylamine which reduces Cu(II) to Cu(I) linked to a diluter module via a Tesla valve, a chelation mixer module, a disperser module, and a detector module provided by a LED light source at λ= 455 nm and a light dependence resistor (LDR) as a light intensity detector. The system measures the color intensity resulting from the chelation between Cu(I) and neocuproine. The micro-FIA system has demonstrated good capability for automatic and continuous Cu(II) determination, in a wide range of Cu concentrations from 34 to 2000 mg L-1. The device exhibits a good repeatability (coefficient of variation below 2% across the concentration range), good reproducibility, and has an accuracy of around 100% between 600 to 1900 mg·L-1. Real samples were analyzed using both the micro-FIA system and an atomic absorption spectroscopy method, revealing no statistically significant differences. Additionally, a Tesla valve located before the detector substituted a 3-way solenoid valve, eliminating the need for moving parts.

Successful geophysical exploration works in Gucheng-Yaxi area located in Gaochun District, Jiangsu province, China, have been limited partly due to complex geological condition of the area and high artificial noise in data acquired using electrical and electromagnetic methods. In this work, we deployed the new anti-interference spread spectrum induced polarization method (SSIP) and audio magnetotellurics (AMT) method to detect a copper-polymetallic deposit in the area. Two-dimensional (2D) inversion results at Gucheng-Yaxi Area revealed a high chargeability anomalous zone on SSIP profile that coincided with a zone of moderate resistivity located between two resistor bodies on AMT profile. A follow up 1200 meters drill hole was established at this high chargeability-moderate resistivity zone which encountered polymetallic (copper, lead, zinc, gold and silver) mineralization at the depth ≥ 400 m. Drill hole data analysis showed that mineralization occurs interspaced in marble rock mass at varies depth. Furthermore, several low resistivity-weak chargeability sections were revealed and inferred attributed to Cretaceous sediments and faults. These faults are thought to have played critical role in the polymetallic mineralization genesis. In summary, this work demonstrated the successful of application of SSIP and AMT at detecting a metallic deposit in an area with high artificial noise. Hence the geophysical prospection potential of Gucheng-Yaxi area is great.

A novel gas-phase electrocatalytic system based on a low-temperature proton exchange membrane (Sterion) was developed for the gas phase electrocatalytic conversion of CO2 to liquid fuels. This system achieved gas-phase electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 at low temperatures (below 90 ºC) over a Cu cathode by using water electrolysis-derived protons generated in-situ on an IrO2 anode. Three Cu-based cathodes with varying metal particle sizes were prepared by supporting this metal on an activated carbon at three loadings (50, 20, and 10 wt%; 50%Cu-AC, 20%Cu-AC, and 10%Cu-AC, respectively). The cathodes were characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) whereas their performance towards the electrocatalytic conversion of CO2 was subsequently studied. The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) containing the cathode with the largest Cu particle size (50%Cu-AC, 40 nm) showed the highest CO2 electrocatalytic activity per mole of Cu, with methyl formate being the main product. This higher electrocatalytic activity was attributed to the lower Cu–CO bonding strength over large Cu particles. Different product distributions were obtained over 20%Cu-AC and 10%Cu-AC, with acetaldehyde and methanol being the main reaction products, respectively. The CO2 consumption rate increased with the applied current and the reaction temperature.

We report an unusual case of Terson's syndrome that resulted in the di-agnosis of a right posterior communicating artery aneurysm. Interest-ingly Terson's syndrome presented with Roth spot resembling features accompanied by third nerve palsy in a patient without any disturbance of consciousness. To our knowledge, the association of Terson's syndrome with third nerve palsy has not been described before in the absence of radiologically diagnosed subarachnoid haemorrhage. We present the case of a 48-year old woman who presented in the De-partment of Emergencies of the University Hospital of Patras with right-sided complete pupil-involving third nerve palsy combined with bilateral Terson's syndrome. More precisely, fundoscopy revealed multi-ple scattered intra- and pre-retinal haemorrhages in both eyes while some retinal haemorrhages had a white-centered pattern resembling Roth spots. Neurological examination revealed no nuchal rigidity or any other neurological signs. The Glasgow coma scale was 15/15. A cerebral computed tomography angiography revealed a 5mm aneurysm of the right posterior communicating artery and the patient underwent a mi-crovascular clipping operation after craniotomy. The significant contribution of the ophthalmological consultation to the appropriate and timely diagnosis and management of a life-threatening condition is highlighted.

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a set of progressive, chronic, and incurable diseases characterized by the gradual loss of neurons, culminating in the decline of cognitive and/or motor functions. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are the most common NDs and represent an enormous burden both in terms of human suffering and economic cost. The available therapies for AD and PD only provide symptomatic and palliative relief for a limited period and are unable to modify the diseases’ progression. Over the last decades, research efforts have been focused on developing new pharmacological treatments for these NDs. However, to date, no breakthrough treatment has been discovered. Hence, the development of disease-modifying drugs able to halt or reverse the progression of NDs remains an unmet clinical need. This review summarizes the major hallmarks of AD and PD and the drugs available for pharmacological treatment. It also sheds light on potential directions that can be pursued to develop of new, disease-modifying drugs to treat AD and PD, thereby decreasing the social and economic burdens linked to these NDs.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. Recent data highlight similarities between neurodegenerative diseases including PD and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) suggesting a crucial interplay between the gut–brain axis. GLP-1R agonists, known for their use in T2DM treatment, are currently extensively studied as novel PD modifying agents. For this narrative review article, we searched PubMed and Scopus databases for peer-reviewed research, review articles and clinical trials regarding GLP-1R agonists and PD, published in the English language with no time restrictions. We also screened the references of the selected articles for possible additional articles in order to include most of the key recent evidence. Our research was conducted between February 2023 and February 2024. We used the terms “GLP-1”, “GLP-1 receptor”, “GLP-1R agonists”, “PD”, “T2DM”, “insulin”, “neurodegenerative disease”, “glucose”, “animal models”, “clinical trials” in different combinations. Many data on animal models and preclinical studies show that GLP1-R agonists can restore dopamine levels, inhibit dopaminergic loss, attenuate neuronal degeneration and alleviate motor and non-motor features of PD. Evidence from clinical studies are also very promising enhancing the possibility of adding GLP1-R agonists in the current armamentarium of drugs available for PD treatment.

Background and objective: Symptoms of most neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), usually do not occur until substantial neuronal loss occurs. This makes the process of early diagnosis very challenging. Hence, this research used variant call format (VCF) analysis to detect variants and novel genes that could be used as prognostic indicators in the early diagnosis of prodromal PD. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), and we analyzed prodromal patients with gVCF data collected in the 2021 cohort. A total of 304 participants were included, including 100 healthy controls, 146 prodromal genetic individuals, 21 prodromal hyposmia individuals, and 37 prodromal RBDs. A pipeline was developed to process the samples from gVCF to reach variant annotation and pathway and disease association analysis. Results: Novel variant percentages were detected in the analyzed prodromal subgroups. The prodromal subgroup analysis revealed novel variations of 1.0%, 1.2%, 0.6%, 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.4% for the genetic male, genetic female, hyposmia male, hyposmia female, RBD male, and RBD female, respectively. Interestingly, 12 potentially novel loci (MTF2, PIK3CA, ADD1, SYBU, IRS2, USP8, PIGL, FASN, MYLK2, USP25, EP300 and PPP6R2) that were recently detected in PD patients were detected in the prodromal stage of PD. Conclusion: Genetic biomarkers are crucial for the early detection of Parkinson’s disease and its prodromal stage. The novel PD genes detected in prodromal patients could aid in the use of gene biomarkers for early diagnosis of the prodromal stage without relying only on phenotypic traits.

Dynamic virtual testing by Hardware in the Loop (HIL) real time simulation systems is common to minimize physical tests to validate and verify control algorithms, logics and software, under normal and emergency conditions. The accurate but costly HIL models setup activities could have an extended use to simulate faulty conditions that are seldom observable in the real system, yet they must be detected in advance and recognized. Data driven diagnostic methods have reached a mature development, in various sectors, proving effective in early detecting slowly varying deviations from nominal patterns of signals, even without a priori knowledge of their nature and behavior. These methods rely on vast amount of data logged from real systems that are ever and ever richer of monitoring telemetries that are worth being exploited. However, due to the usually reliable and safe systems being managed, it is often difficult to collect enough data on anomalous situations to validate fault detection and isolation and limit false positives. HIL model-based simulations allow generating and observing operational domains or transients rarely observed in real operations. This allows identifying the signals that are most correlated to faults and that could be selected to setup data-based diagnostic models of parts or subsystems, which are more suitable than the whole HIL model for online diagnostics, as well as to identify the features and trends that are most symptomatic of anomalous conditions.

The article proposes asymptotic methods for calculating Sommerfeld integrals, which enable us to calculate the integral using the expansion of a function into an infinite power series at the saddle point, where the role of a rapidly oscillating function under the integral can be fulfilled either by an exponential or by its product by the Hankel function. The proposed types of Sommerfeld integrals are generalized on the basis of integral representations of the Hertz radiator fields in the form of the inverse Hankel transform with the subsequent replacement of the Bessel function by the Hankel function. It is shown that the numerical values of the saddle point are complex. During integration, auxiliary or so-called standard integrals, which contain the main features of the integrand function, were used. As a demonstration of the accuracy of the technique, a previously known asymptotic formula for the Hankel functions was obtained in the form of an infinite series. The proposed method for calculating Sommerfeld integrals can be useful in solving the half-space Sommerfeld problem. An example is the expression in the form of an infinite series for the magnetic field of reflected waves, obtained directly through the Sommerfeld integral (SI).

The variation of the cationic composition in I2-II-IV-VI4 semiconductor compounds is an effective tool for altering their properties in a controlled manner. In particular, a partial substitution of Cu for Ag in kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 was proposed to suppress Cu-Zn antisite defects and the improve photovoltaic performance. However, the efficiency of this approach may substantially depend on the fabrication route. Here, we report on the synthesis of (Cu,Ag)-Zn-Sn-S (CAZTS) and Ag-Zn-Sn-S (AZTS) nanocrystals (NCs) by means of "green" chemistry in aqueous solution and their detailed characterization by Raman spectroscopy and by several complementary techniques. Through a systematic variation of the nominal composition and quantification of the constituent elements in CAZTS and AZTS NCs by XPS, we identified the vibrational Raman and IR fingerprints of both the main AZTS phase and secondary phases of Ag-Zn-S and Ag-Sn-S compounds (for the first time). The formation of the secondary phases of Ag-S and Ag-Zn-S cannot be avoided entirely for this type of synthesis. The Ag-Zn-S phase, having its bandgap in near infrared range, is the reason of the non-monotonous dependence of the absorption edge of CAZTS NCs on the Ag content, with a trend to redshift even below the bandgaps of bulk AZTS and CZTS.

Recently, the conformable derivative and its properties have been introduced. In this paper, we propose and prove some new results on conformable Boundary Value Problems. First, we introduce a conformable version of classical Sturm´s separation, and comparison theorems. For a conformable Sturm-Liouville problem, Green's function is constructed, and its properties are also studied. In addition, we propose the applicability of the Green´s Function in solving conformable inhomogeneous linear differential equations with homogeneous boundary conditions, whose associated homogeneous boundary value problem has only trivial solution. Finally, we prove the generalized Hyers-Ulam stability of the conformable inhomogeneous boundary value problem.

This study focuses on a biogas dry reforming to produce H2. Biogas contains CO2 of 40 vol% approximately, indicating that the efficiency of the power generation is reduced because of the smaller heating value compared with a natural gas. The authors have proposed the combination system consisting of biogas dry reforming reactor and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). Since a biogas dry reforming is an endothermic reaction, this study adopts a membrane reactor which can be operated by causing the non-equilibrium state with H2 separation from the reaction space. This study aims to clarify the impact of thickness of Pd/Cu membrane on the characteristics of the biogas dry reforming membrane reactor using Pd/Cu membrane and Ni/Cr catalyst. The impact of the operation temperature, the molar ratio of CH4:CO2 and the differential pressure between the reaction chamber and the sweep chamber on the characteristics of the biogas dry reforming membrane reactor using Pd/Cu membrane and Ni/Cr catalyst is examined changing the thickness of Pd/Cu membrane. As a result, the highest concentration of H2 is 122711 ppmV which is obtained in case of CH4:CO2 =1:1 at the reaction temperature of 600 ℃ and the differential pressure of 0 MPa using the Pd/Cu membrane whose thickness of 40 m.

This study aimed to investigate the fatigue performance and interfacial strengthening mechanisms of Al6061-to-Cu dissimilar lap joints via electromagnetic pulse welding (EMPW). The load-bearing capacity of the joints at discharge voltages of 14 kV and 16 kV was superior to that of 12 kV. Furthermore, the fatigue life of the 14 kV joints was one order of magnitude higher compared to the 12 kV joints. SEM observation of the fatigue fracture surface revealed the presence of typical "tire-mark" fatigue striations only in the 14 kV joint, indicating higher ductility and the ability to withstand extended plastic deformation. Notably, ultra-fine nanocrystalline Al2Cu phase, amorphous phase, and numerous dislocations hindered EBSD acquisition in the transition zone. Nevertheless, dense low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs) and refined grains were examined at the bonding interface. This suggests that the high-velocity collision caused severe plastic deformation and led to the formation of substructures. The interfacial strength was attributed not only to the "wave-like" or "inverted hook-like" diffusion layer but also to the presence of refined grains along the interface and nanocrystalline Al2Cu in the transition zone. Furthermore, the hybrid nanocrystalline-amorphous microstructure strengthened the joint by regulating the balance between strength and ductility.

This study investigated the fatigue properties and interfacial strengthening mechanisms of Al6061-to-Cu dissimilar welded joints via electromagnetic pulse welding (EMPW). The load-bearing capacity of the joints at discharge voltages of 14 kV and 16 kV was superior to that of 12 kV. Meanwhile, the fatigue life of 14 kV joints was one order of magnitude higher than that of 12 kV. The SEM observation on the fatigue fracture surface shows that the typical “tire-mark” fatigue striation just appeared on the 14 kV joint, indicating higher ductility for handling more extended plastic deformation. The high EBSD acquisition was achieved except for the transition zone due to the formation of ultra-fine nanocrystalline Al2Cu phase and amorphous phase, along with many dislocations. Dense low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs) and refined grains are formed along the bonding interface. This indicates that severe plastic deformation induced dislocations to form the substructure in such an instant (40-60 μs) during the high-velocity collision. The interfacial strength is not only due to the continuous interfacial diffusion layer with a “wave-like” or “inverted hook-like” pattern but also benefits from refined grains along the interface and in the transition zone, as well as the hybrid amorphous-nanocrystalline microstructure, which strengthens the joint through increasing ductility induced by refined grains and regulating amorphous or nanocrystalline phases to affect the balance between strength and ductility of the Al/Cu joint.

Among the thermophysical properties, the surface / interfacial tension, viscosity and density / molar volume of liquid alloys are the key properties for the modelling of microstructural evolution during solidification. Therefore, only reliable input data can yield accurate predictions preventing the error propagation in numerical simulations of solidification related processes. Due to experimental difficulties related to reactivity of metallic melts at high temperatures, the measured data are often unreliable or even lacking. The application of containerless processing techniques either leads to a significant improvement of the accuracy or makes the measurement possible at all. On the other side, accurate model predicted property values could be used to compensate the missing data; otherwise, the experimental data are useful for the validation of theoretical models. The choice of models is particularly important for the surface, transport and structural properties of liquid alloys representing the two limiting cases of mixing, i.e. ordered and phase separating alloy systems. To this aim, the thermophysical properties of the Fe-Si and Cu-Pb systems were analysed and the connections with the peculiarities of their mixing behaviours are highlighted.

The contact materials in high-voltage vacuum interrupter require properties such as high conductivity, high density, and high hardness to minimize arc heat damage. In this study, copper–molybdenum-chromium alloys contact materials are examined for a high voltage contact material. Ball milling process was carried out after analyzing the raw materials of copper, chromium, and molybdenum powders. A green compact was produced using a high press with the mixed powder. Afterwards, composite was produced by sintering method according to temperature and infiltration method according to Cu content in green compact. The composite of sintering method showed a density of 8.55 g/cm3 (relative density 93%) a hardness of 217 HV, and an electrical conductivity of 40.7 IACS% at 1200 °C. The composite of 10 wt.% Cu produced by the Cu infiltration method showed a density of 8.7 g/cm3 (relative density 94%), Hardness of 274HV and electrical conductivity of 39 IACS% at 1300 °C. The measurements of physical properties showed the new possibility of using the Cu–Cr–Mo alloy as a contact material for high-voltage vacuum interrupters.

The microstructure evolution and grain refinement kinetics of a solution treated Cu – 0.1Cr – 0.06Zr alloy during equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) at a temperature of 673 K via route B_C were investigated. The microstructure change during plastic deformation was accompanied by the microband formation and an increase in the misorienations of strain-induced subboundaries. The refinement of initial coarse grains was considered as a result of continuous dynamic recrystallization. The dynamic recrystallization kinetics was discussed in terms of grain/subgrain boundary triple junction evolution. The strain dependence of the triple junctions of high-angle boundaries can be expressed by a modified Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov relationship with a strain exponent of about 1.49. Severe plastic deformation by ECAP led to substantial strengthening of the Cu-0.1Cr-0.06Zr alloy. The yield strength increased from 60 MPa in the initial state to 445 MPa after the total strain of 12.

Fluorinated compounds and co-enzymes are being widely researched and employed throughout research community because of their versatile physical, chemical and biological properties. In this work, we synthesized NiS-NiO/S-g-C3N4, a highly effective photocatalyst for C(sp3)-F bond activation and the regeneration of coenzyme (1,4-NADH) employing a new and ecologically acceptable route. The obtained photocatalyst exhibited important photocatalytic properties, such as good solar light harvesting ability, suitability of the optical band-gap, and facilitating efficient charge migrations. As a result, the newly designed NiS-NiO/S-g-C3N4 photocatalyst shows the excellent yield for regenerations of 1,4-NADH (51%). Further, a method of combining C(sp3)-F bond activation with photocatalysis has been demonstrated that represents a very powerful and sustainable approach, that can be a major breakthrough for the field of pharmaceutical.

After three years of the onset of the pandemic, there is scarce evidence about how COVID-19 disease affect the female reproductive system, and consequently, the menstrual cycle. Since the common causes of secondary amenorrhea are considered as exclusion criteria in the studies about menstrual changes following SARS-CoV-2 infection, the prevalence of this event and the influencing factors in formerly menstruating women remains unknown. A retrospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted on Spanish adult women (N= 17,512), using an online survey; a subpopulation of SARS-CoV-2-infected-formerly menstruating women was included in the present analysis (n= 72). Collected data included general characteristics, medical history, and specific information about COVID-19 disease. 38.9% of the respondents experienced menstrual-related disturbances after suffering from the COVID-19 disease, unexpected vaginal bleeding being the most common (20.8%). Other alterations related with the length – “shorter” by 12.5% − and the flow − “heavier than usual” 30.3% − of the menstrual bleeding were reported. The binary logistic regression showed that being a perimenopausal woman (AOR 4.608, CI 95%, 1.018 – 20.856, p = 0.047) and having heavy menstrual bleeding (AOR 4.857, CI 95%, 1.239 – 19.031, p=0.023) are influential factors. This evidence could help health professionals to provide scientifically up-to-date information to their patients, empowering them to actively manage their reproductive health, especially in those societies where menstrual health is still a taboo.

In this paper, I introduce a new concept of representing numbers in base ; in other words, I have found new series for any number similar to series that could be written according to the collatz sequence which is called zi(n) in this article. These series need to end with 1. Then, we use two sets of rules to make a diagram which then proves the existence of such series for any number.In this diagram, by branching numbers into different branches in accordance to the modularity of 4 and continuing branching to the point that their numbers have enough common terms in their collatz series, we could reduce zi(n) to zi(k) so that k<n in any branch by Rule Number One. This diagram shows that zi(n) exists for every number, in other words, this proves the theorem (A) or zi-existence theorem. The proof of zi-existence theorem leads to a proof of the collatz conjecture because the collatz series could be written as a linear combination of such series that all of them end with 1, so the collatz series for any number ends with 1.

Hamman’s syndrome is a rare condition that mostly affects young males, often with a predisposition of asthma. It includes the presence of free air in the mediastinum and subcutaneous emfysema with no other underlying cause such as trauma or infection. It occurs spontanously and often in association with prolonged valsalva manouvre. This might explain why there are some cases of Hamman syndrome among young females giving birth. Here we present a case report of a 24-year- old primigravida with Hamman’s syndrome. She presented with symptoms a few hours after an uncomplicated vaginal delivery at 40+1 pregnancy week. The symptoms resolved spontanously after a few days of observation. We also give a systemic review of reported cases since 2000 to provide overview on pathomechanism, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment and management of this condition. Hamman’s syndrome is a rare, usually benign, but potentially serious complication that can occur during the second stage of labour. Diagnostics include inquiring about typical symptoms, clinical examination and chest x-ray or CT scan. Treatment is usually conservative with oxygen, bronchodilators and pain relief. The reccurence rate is low and there is no contraindication to vaginal delivery in future pregnancies. However, it is suggested that physicians and midwives be cautious and consider low threshold for instrumental delivery or caesarean section to avoid excessive valsalva manoeuvre.

Malocclusions have a continuously increasing prevalence from a generation to another as a result of climate changes, soil, atmosphere and water pollution. All of these aspects have unfavorable consequences on the nutritional scheme. Thus, nutrition together with other etiopathogenic factors contribute to complex alterations in the somatic development of the entire organism and, implicitly, of the cephalic extremity. The study group included 4147 children from randomly selected schools from Vâlcea County, Romania. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of malocclusions in schoolchildren from Vâlcea County, Romania, according to the three main classes of malocclusions (according to Angle’s classification), age groups (from 6 to 10 years old and from 11 to 14 years old), gender (male and female) and place of origin (rural and urban). For Angle class I malocclusions we recorded the highest prevalence (48,78% from the total number of schoolchildren with malocclusions), followed by Angle class II malocclusions (45,85% from the total number of schoolchildren with malocclusions) and for Angle class III malocclusions we found the lowest prevalence (5,37% from the total number of schoolchildren with malocclusions).According to gender, we found the highest prevalence in female gender (29,90% from the total number of female subjects), while in male gender we recorded a prevalence of 27,70% from the total number of male subjects. Regarding the place of origin, there is a higher prevalence of malocclusions in the urban areas (29,16%). The study subgroup included 140 children randomly selected from the total number of subjects from the study group. They were included in a more advanced study. The aim is to find potential associations between the presence of malocclusions and various oral variables. Categorical variables were expressed as numerical values and percentages, and their association was evaluated with either the Chi-square test of association or homogeneity, or the Fisher Exact test. The acquired data were incorporated into a binomial logistic regression model to assess the likelihood of developing malocclusions in relation to the following variables: defective phonation, bruxism, frequency of teeth brushing, onychophagia, oral respiration, infantile deglutition, placing objects between the maxillaries, thumb sucking and salivary aspects. It is also aimed to compare the results obtained with similar ones from the specialized literature.

Histone post-translational modification is one of the main mechanisms of epigenetic regulation, which plays a crucial role in the control of gene expression and various biological processes. However, whether or not it affects fungal virulence is not clear in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. In this study, we identified and cloned the histone methyltransferase Defective in methylation 5 (Dim5) in S. sclerotiorum, which encodes a protein containing a typical SET domain. SsDim5 was found to be dynamically expressed during infection. Knockout experiment demonstrated that deletion of SsDim5 reduced the virulence in Ssdim5-1/Ssdim5-2 mutant strains, accompanied by a significant decrease in H3K9 trimethylation levels. Transcriptomic analysis further revealed the downregulation of genes associated with mycotoxins biosynthesis in SsDim5 deletion mutants. Additionally, the absence of SsDim5 affected the fungus's response to oxidative and osmotic, as well as cellular integrity. Together, our results indicate that the H3K9 methyltransferase SsDim5 is essential for H3K9 trimethylation, which regulating fungal virulence to host plants through impacting on mycotoxins biosynthesis, and the response to environmental stresses in S. sclerotiorum.

Coagulase negative Staphylococci (CoNS) are reported to be responsible for 50-60% of bloodstream infections in very preterm (&lt;1500 g) infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). Staphylococcus capitis is an increasingly prevalent pathogen in neonatal setting, frequently causing central-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) that can be difficult to eradicate. CVC removal versus in situ treatment of CoNS CLABSIs is a matter of debate, with no clear consensus emerging in the existing literature. We revised all S. capitis CLABSIs in our NICU between 2019 and 2022, focusing on the role of catheter removal for eradication. Among 25 cases, 17 CVCs were removed after diagnosis, leading to a 76.5% eradication rate in this group. 3 infants had a persistently positive blood culture after CVC substitution. A new catheter was than inserted after a 48-hours washout period, resulting in resolution of the infection. Only 2 of 8 patients (25%) who retained the catheter after diagnosis, underwent infection eradication with antibiotic therapy alone. Catheter removal, when feasible, seems to be the most effective strategy to eradicate S. capitis CLABSIs, sometimes even requiring a 48-hours washout period before reinsertion. Further studies on this subject are needed to better standardize the management of this kind of infections.

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) is considered to be a useful therapeutic agent for degenerative cartilage diseases, although its mechanism is not clear. We previously found that polyamines stimulate expression of differentiated phenotype of chondrocytes. We also found that cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) played a huge role in the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes. Therefore, we hypothesized that polyamines and CCN2 could be involved in the chondroprotective action of SAM. In this study, we initially found that exogenous SAM enhanced proteoglycan production but not cell proliferation in human chondrocyte-like cell line-2/8 (HCS-2/8) cells. Moreover, SAM enhanced gene expression of cartilage-specific matrix (aggrecan and type II collagen), Sry-Box transcription factor 9 (SOX9), CCN2 and chondroitin sulfate biosynthetic enzymes. Blockade of the methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) enzyme catalyzing intracellular SAM biosynthesis restrained the effect of SAM on chondrocytes. The polyamine level in chondrocytes was higher in SAM-treated culture than control culture. Additionally, alcian blue staining and RT-qPCR indicated that the effects of SAM on the production and gene expression of aggrecan were reduced by the inhibition of polyamine synthesis. These results suggest that the stimulation of polyamine synthesis and gene expression of chondrogenic differentiation factors, such as CCN2, account for the mechanism underlying the action of SAM on chondrocytes.

Cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), which may occur in various severities, represents one of the commonest and most disabling non-motor manifestations during the course of the disease, causing a negative impact on patients’ quality of life. Eventually, it becomes a burden for the family members and/or the caregivers of patients, as it progresses to PD dementia. Current pharmacological treatments for cognitive impairment in PD exhibit partial efficacy, while novel effective therapeutic strategies are required. Accumulating preclinical and clinical evidence shows that several agents may provide beneficial effects on patients with PD and cognitive impairment, including ceftriaxone, ambroxol, intranasal insulin, nilotinib, atomoxetine, mevidalen, blarcamesine, prasinezumab, SYN120, ENT-01, NYX-458, GRF6021, fosgonimeton, INT-777, Neuropeptide S, silibinin, osmotin, cordycepin, huperzine A, fibroblast growth factor 21, Poloxamer 188, ginsenoside Rb1, thioredoxin-1, tangeretin, istradefylline, and Eugenia uniflora. Potential underlying mechanisms include the inhibition of a-synuclein aggregation, improvement of mitochondrial function, regulation of synaptic plasticity, impact on gut-brain axis, modulation of neuroinflammation, upregulation of neurotrophic factors, as well as cholinergic, dopaminergic, serotoninergic and norepinephrine neurotransmission. In this overview, we aim to cover the clinical aspects of PD associated cognitive impairment, highlighting recent evidence on emerging treatment approaches that are currently under investigation at a preclinical and clinical level.

Several studies have shown that tapering or stopping disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in sustained remission is feasible. However, tapering/stopping bears the risk of decline in physical function as some patients may relapse and face increased disease activity. Here we analysed the impact of tapering or stopping DMARD treatment on the physical function of RA patients. The study was a posthoc analysis of physical functional worsening for 282 patients with RA in sustained remission tapering and stopping DMARD treatment in the prospective randomized RETRO study. HAQ and DAS-28 scores were determined in baseline samples of patients continuing DMARD (arm 1), tapering their dose by 50% (arm 2), or stopping after tapering (arm 3). Patients were followed over 1 year, and HAQ and DAS-28 scores were evaluated every 3 months. The effect of treatment reduction strategy on functional worsening was assessed in a recurrent-event Cox regression model with a study-group (control, taper, taper/stop) as the predictor. 282 patients were analysed. In 58 patients, functional worsening was observed. The incidences suggest a higher probability of functional worsening in patients tapering and/or stopping DMARDs, which is likely due to higher relapse rates in these individuals. At the end of the study, however, functional worsening was similar among the groups. Point estimates and survival curves show that functional decline after tapering or stopping DMARDs in RA patients with stable remission is small and related to relapses but to on overall functional decline.

Chloride (Cl-) is applied in coffee in rates as a “macronutrient” due that potassium (K+) is one of the most demanded nutrients by the coffee plant, and the potassium muriate (KCl) bases fertilizer is one the most used by the coffee growers. Does not exist scientific evidence that addresses the question regarding with which is the influences of the Cl- applied in the K fertilization base on MOP on coffee growth, nutrient uptake, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). Over four years, two trials were conducted on greenhouse and field conditions to address these questions. The trials set up were designed to test the influence of increased Cl- and reduced S rates on biomass accumulation, nutrient uptake, and NUE. A significant effect of the Cl- rates on growth was observed under greenhouse conditions but a non-significant effect on yield under field conditions. Cl- and S significantly influence the NUE in coffee. The result allows us to conclude that Cl- rates need to be balanced with S rates and that Cl- applied as a macronutrient can improve the NUE in coffee when those rates do not exceed 180 mg. L-1 Cl- and 80 mg.L-1 S in the greenhouse and 150 kg.ha-1.year-1 Cl- and 50 kg. ha-1.year-1 S in field conditions. In practical terms, coffee farmers need to balance the K base fertilizers sources to improve the nutrient use efficiency, especially the NUE.

INTRODUCTION: Superficial cutaneous bacterial infections have a high incidence in geriatric patients. The most implicated pathogens are gram-positive cocci (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes) while gram-negative germs are also implicated. Resistances to common topical antibiotics (mupirocin, fusidic acid) require alternatives to gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms.Ozenoxacin cream for topical use (non-fluorinated bactericidal quinolone), in other countries and with other galenics, is indicated in children older than 6 months and in adults as a treatment of superficial bacterial infections, such as acne. In Spain, ozenoxacin cream is indicated only for non-bullous impetigo; scientific evidence show effectiveness also in other superficial skin bacterial infections.A cases series of clinical use of ozenoxacin in bacterial superficial skin infections in geriatric patients (institutionalized or community dwelling) is presented.METHODS: Multicenter case series (March-August 2022) of bacterial superficial skin infections treated with ozenoxacin cream (10mg/g every 12h, 5days); data from medical records (controls: 1-3-5 days), after obtaining informed consent (use of data and images).RESULTS: Series of 28 patients (mean age: 84,79) from nine nursing homes and one outpatient geriatric service, including acute and subacute/chronic cases.In all cases treatment was ozenoxacin 10mg/g topical cream applied every 12 hours for 5 days according to medical prescription (except for one case in which 3 days were enough for complete healing and another case treated for 10 days).Results showed complete healing in all 20 acute cases and significant clinical improvement in all subacute/chronic cases (with complete healing in one of them). Professionals scored the effectiveness in acute cases as a mean 4.5 points (maximum score: 5, p<.0001) and in subacute/chronic cases as 3.8 points (p=.010).There was no skin irritation or other adverse effects in anyone of the patients, and clinical improvement of pain, itching and other symptoms was observed, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Our results seem to demonstrate the effectiveness and tolerability of ozenozacin cream in bacterial infections other than non-bullous impetigo. Ozenoxacin cream is indicated only for the treatment of non-bullous impetigo; however, it is also shown to be effective, both in the scientific evidence and in our case series, for other superficial bacterial skin infections, both acute and subacute/chronic, suggesting the opportunity for clinical studies with an experimental design to evaluate the findings of clinical practice and to be able to have a therapeutic alternative to compensate for the complications of the appearance of resistance.

This study was designed to assess the reliability of geographic information using satellite image information in ungauged basins. For this, this study constructed geographic information using actual gauged data and satellite information data and conducted runoff analysis through S-RAT, a rainfall–runoff model, and performed the comparison and analysis of geographic information and runoff data. For actual gauged data, the gauged geographic information of the Water Resources Management Information System (WAMIS) was collected, and for satellite information, the image information of moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) observation sensor loaded on Terra Satellite was collected. As analysis areas, three basins where mountains occupy more than 80% and another three basins where urban areas occupy more than 7% in the Han River basin were selected. According to the analysis result, the gauged information and satellite image information showed great difference in runoff, maximum 50% in peak flood and maximum 17% in total flood, in the rivers with many urban areas, while the runoff difference in the rivers with many mountains showed maximum 13% in peak flood and 4% in total flood. What showed the greatest difference in image information was land use, and it turned out that the MODIS satellite recognized the urban rivers as cities for more than maximum 60% compared to WAMIS-gauged data. Meanwhile, in the forest area, the MODIS satellite image showed error of less than 5% of the WAMIS-gauged data, which indicates that it has higher applicability in Mountain Rivers.

Family Fabaceae traditionally serves as food and herbal remedies source. Several plants are already used for menopausal symptoms treatment based on a presence of typical secondary metabolites, isoflavones. Beside soybean and clovers, isoflavones could be produced by other plants or in vitro cultures. This type of production can be further enhanced by elicitation that stimulates metabolites biosynthesis via stress reaction. Vanadium compounds have been already described as potential elicitors and the aim of this study was to determine an impact of NH₄VO₃ and VOSO₄ solutions on isoflavones production in Genista tinctoria L. cell cultures. The significant increase of isoflavones content such as genistin, genistein or formononetin was measured in a nutrient medium or dry mass after NH₄VO₃ treatment for 24 or 48 hours. The possible transport mechanism of isoflavones was also evaluated. An incubation with different transport inhibitors prior elicitation took effect on isoflavones content in the medium. However, there was non-ended result for particular metabolites such as genistein and daidzein, where ABC or alternatively MATE proteins can participate. Possible elicitation by some inhibitors was also discussed as result of their pleiotropic effect. Despite this outcome, the determining of transport mechanism is important step for identification of specific transporter.

Research on the development of new lightweight Al-Li alloys using selective laser melting pro-cess has great potential for industrial applications. This paper reports on the development of novel aluminum-lithium alloys using selective laser melting technology. Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Ag-Sc-Zr pre-alloyed powders with lithium contents of 1 wt.%, 2 wt.% and 3 wt.%, respectively, were prepared by inert gas atomization. After SLM process optimization, the microstructure and me-chanical properties of the as-formed specimens were investigated. The densification of the three newly developed alloys are 99.51 %, 98.96 % and 92.01 %, respectively. They all have good form-ability, with the lithium loss rate about 15 %. The as-formed alloy with 1% Li content presents good comprehensive properties with a yield strength of 412.6 ± 16.0 MPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 461.1 ± 11.7 MPa, and an elongation of 13.6 ± 1.1%. The three alloys exhibit a layered molten pool stacking morphology and have a typical heterostructure. The columnar crystals and equiaxed fine grains are alternately arranged, and most of the precipitated phases are enriched at the grain boundaries. The change of Li content mainly affects the precipitation of Cu-containing phase. When the Li content is 1 wt.%, there are θ phase, T1 phase and TB phase. When Li increased to 2 wt.%, T1 and T2 phases precipitated together. When Li reaches 3 wt.%, δ' phase precipitates with T2 phase. This study provides useful guidance for the future SLM form-ing of new crack-free and high-strength Al-Li alloys.

Here we report a new synthetic protocol based on Microwave- Assisted Synthesis (MAS) for the preparation in higher yields of zinc and copper MOFs based on different bis(pyrazolyl)-tagged ligands ([M(BPZ)]n where M = Zn(II), Cu(II), H2BPZ = 4,4′-bipyrazole, [M(BPZ-NH2)]n where M = Zn(II), Cu(II); H2BPZ-NH2 = 3-amino-4,4’-bipyrazole, and [Mx(Me4BPZPh)] where M = Zn(II), x = 1; Cu(II), x = 2; H2Me4BPZPh = bis-4′-(3′,5′-dimethyl)- pyrazolylbenzene) and a detailed study of their antibacterial activity, tested against Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria, as representative agents of infections. The results show that all MOFs exert a broad-spectrum activity and strong efficiency in bacterial growth inhibition, with a mechanism of action based on surface contact of MOFs particles with bacterial cells through the so-called “chelation effect” and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, without a significant release of Zn(II) and Cu(II) ions. In addition, morphological changes were elucidated by using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and bacterial cell damage was further confirmed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) test.

Cu-Sn shape-memory microwires were fabricated by a glass-coated melt spinning method. Effects of Sn content on the microstructure and mechanical property of microwires were investigated. The phase transforms from martensite to austenite with Sn content increasing from 14.0 atomic percent (at.%) to 16.5 at.%, and highly ordered intermetallic phase, δ, formed with higher Sn content. The fracture stress, σf, and the critical stress for martensitic transformation, σMs, increases with Sn content increasing. The mechanical property as well as superelasticity were improved greatly by high cooling rate of the glass-coated melt spinning method.

Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy has high specific strength, good corrosion resistance, fracture toughness and fatigue resistance. It is one of the most important structural materials in the fields of aviation, aerospace, weapons, transportation and so on, which plays a huge role in the field of aerospace.In order to optimize the strength, toughness and corrosion properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy, alloying has always been the focus of research on Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy. The effects of main alloying elements, trace alloying elements and rare earth elements on the microstructure and properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloy were briefly introduced in the paper, and the future research directions were prospected.

We have determined Hf isotopic compositions of 12 samples associated with the giant El Teniente Cu-Mo deposit, Chile. The samples range in age from ≥8.9 to 2.3 Ma and provide information about the temporal evolution of their magmatic sources from the Late Miocene to Pliocene. Together with previously published data, the new analysis indicate a temporal decrease of 10 εHf(t) units, from +11.6 down to +1.6, in the 12.7 m.y. from 15 to 2.3 Ma. These variations imply increasing incorporation of continental crust through time in the magmas that formed these rocks. The fact that the samples include mantle-derived olivine basalts and olivine lamprophyres suggests that these continental components were incorporated into their mantle source, and not by intra-crustal contamination (MASH). We attribute the increase, between the Middle Miocene and Pliocene, of crustal components in the subarc mantle source below El Teniente to be due to increased subduction erosion and transport of crust into the mantle. The deposit formed above a large, long-lived, vertically zoned magma chamber that developed due to compressive deformation and persisted between the period ~7 to 4.6 Ma. Progressively more hydrous mantle-derived mafic magmas feed this chamber from below, providing heat, H₂O, S and metals, but no unique “fertile” Cu-rich magma was involved in the formation of the deposit. As the volume of these mantle-derived magmas decreased from the Late Miocene into the Pliocene, the chamber crystallized and solidified, producing felsic plutons and large metal-rich magmatic-hydrothermal breccias that emplaced Cu and S into the older (≥8.9 Ma) mafic host rocks of this megabreccia deposit.

Porphyry copper-molybdenum deposits (PCDs) are the world’s most important source of copper, molybdenum and rhenium. Previous studies have reported that some PCDs can have sub-economic to economic grades of critical metals, i.e., those elements that are both essential for modern societies and subject to the risk of supply restriction (e.g., platinum group elements (PGE), rare earth elements (REE), In, Co, Te, Ge, Ga, among others). Even though some studies have reported measured concentrations of Pd and Pt in PCDs, their occurrence and mineralogical form remain poorly constrained. Furthermore, these reconnaissance studies have focused predominantly on porphyry Cu-Au deposits, but very limited information is available for porphyry Cu-Mo systems. In this contribution, we report the occurrence of critical metal (Pd, Pt, Au, Ag, and Te) inclusions in copper sulfides from the world’s largest PCD, the supergiant Río Blanco-Los Bronces deposit in central Chile. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) observations of chalcopyrite and bornite from the potassic alteration zone reveal the presence of micro- to nano-sized particles (<1-10 μm) of noble metals, most notably Pd, Au, and Ag. The high-resolution data show that these inclusions are mostly tellurides, such as merenskyite [PdTe2], Pd-rich hessite [Ag2Te], sylvanite [(Ag, Au)Te2] and petzite [Ag3AuTe2]. The data point to Pd (and probably Pt) partitioning in copper sulfides during the high-temperature potassic alteration stage, opening new avenues of research aimed at investigating not only the mobility of PGE during mineralization and partitioning into sulfides, but also at evaluating the potential of porphyry Cu-Mo deposits as a source for noble metals.

(R)-1-(4-Amino-3,5-dichlorophenyl)-2-bromoethan-1-ol has been synthesised in 93% enantiomeric excess (ee) by asymmetric reduction of the corresponding ketone catalysed by a ketoreductase and NADPH as the co-factor in DMSO. (S)-N-(2,6-Dichloro-4-(1-hydroxyethyl)phenyl)acetamide has been synthesised in >98% ee by the same system. Both synthons are potential precursors for clenbuterol enantiomers. Clenbuterol is a β₂-agonist used in veterinary treatment of asthma in several countries. The drug is listed on the World Anti-doping Agency’s Prohibited list due to its effect on increased protein synthesis in the body. However, racemic clenbuterol has recently been shown to reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease. In order to reveal which one (or both) of the enantiomers that cause this effect, the pure enantiomers need to be studied separately. Our biocatalytic approach in order to obtain enantiopure clenbuterol should be applicable to industrial scale.

Many neurodegenerative diseases are directly related to the formation of toxic protein aggregates, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, which are associated with the aggregation of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) and beta-amyloid (Aβ ), respectively. In this context, protein fibrils are the hallmark of these neurodegenerative diseases. In this sense, planning or designing compounds that are capable of preventing or reducing the formation of protein aggregation in the brain can be of fundamental importance for the curative treatment of these diseases. This work presents an in silico and experimental study to investigate the inhibitory potential of the ligands Octovespin (bioinspired by the wasp venom Polybia Occidentalis) and Fraternine-10 (bioinspired by the wasp venom Parachartergus fraternus wasp) against the aggregation of fibrils of the peptides Aβ(17-42) and α-syn, respectively. Using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations with 100 ns, the disaggregation capacity of these ligands was studied. The results obtained indicate that Octovespin and Fraternine-10 interact with the Aβ and α-syn protein fibrils throughout the simulation time. The RMSD values and the interactions with amino acids responsible for fibril aggregation demonstrate that both Octovespin and Fraternine-10 have a significant disaggregation potential, which corroborates the observations in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, experimental results of Fraternine-10 demonstrate an anti-aggregation effect, indicating that it can promote the disaggregation of fibrils and prevent them from aggregating again to form oligomers. These discoveries qualify these molecules as potential candidates to become medicines against Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

In this paper, we propose an extension of the Planck distribution function derived from the Boltzmann principle. That is, we consider extending Planck's law with new distribution functions. In addition, using ideas applied to the expansion of the Planck distribution function, Von Koch's inequality is derived without using the Riemann hypothesis, showing that the abc conjecture is negated. We also describe some challenges for the future. Namely, we will discuss that Entropy is related to dynamical systems described by logistic function models, such as the bacterial and the population growth.

This study explores the intricate relationship between the angle of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) conflicts and the severity of conflicts at signalized intersections during traffic signal failures, leveraging the advanced capabilities of LiDAR sensor technology. The research delves into the impact of conflict angles on collision outcomes and introduces LiDAR as a novel and precise tool for capturing spatial dynamics during unregulated traffic movements. Findings reveal that as the angle of V2V conflicts increases, indicating a wider approach between vehicles, the severity of conflicts tends to decrease. This reduction in severity is attributed to the detailed spatial data provided by LiDAR, enabling the identification of glancing impacts rather than direct head-on collisions. The mitigation of forces involved in collisions at increased angles contributes to a decreased likelihood of severe consequences, such as extensive vehicle damage and serious injuries to occupants.Conversely, as the angle of V2V conflicts decreases, signifying a narrower approach between vehicles, the potential for severe collisions tends to increase. LiDAR technology facilitates precise measurements of spatial coordinates and temporal dynamics, revealing that collisions occurring at smaller angles involve more direct and concentrated impact forces. This heightened risk of extensive damage to vehicles and increased injury severity is crucially captured by LiDAR, providing valuable insights into the relationship between conflict angles and collision outcomes during traffic signal failures. This study underscores the efficacy of LiDAR sensor technology in understanding the nuanced dynamics of V2V conflicts and highlights its role in developing targeted safety interventions. The integration of LiDAR data into traffic safety analyses offers a sophisticated approach to mitigating the impact of conflicts and enhancing overall safety at signalized intersections during signal failures. The research also highlighted that as the angle of V2P conflicts widens, PET experiences a proportional increase. A larger conflict angle signifies a more complex interaction between vehicles and pedestrians, leading to prolonged PET values. Conversely, a decrease in the angle of V2P conflicts is associated with a reduction in PET during traffic signal failures.The study commences with an examination of traffic characteristics at the E Cold Spring Ln – Hillen Rd intersection in Baltimore City, MD, utilizing a deployed LiDAR sensor. When the signal at this intersection experienced a temporary malfunction on a regular working day in September 2023, the LiDAR captured data related to vehicle and pedestrian volumes, as well as V2V and V2P conflicts. The primary objective of the research is to evaluate the repercussions of traffic signal failures on both traffic flow and safety, specifically V2V and V2P conflicts, occurring during periods of improper signal functionality. Additionally, this investigation delves into various factors that impact traffic signal performance, encompassing traffic demand, geometric layout, pedestrian interactions, and the incorporation of emerging technologies.

In this present paper, we deal with the generalized (k, s)-fractional integral and differential operators recently defined by Nisar et al. and obtain some generalized (k, s)-fractional integral and differential formulas involving the class of a function as its kernels. Also, we investigate a certain number of their consequences containing the said function in their kernels.

In this work we looked for a stable and accurate procedure to perform feature selection in datasets with a much higher number of predictors than individuals, as in Genome-Wide Association Studies. Due to the instability in feature selection when many potential predictors are measured, a variable selection procedure is proposed that combines several replications of shrinkage regression models. A weighted formulation is used to define the final predictors. The procedure is applied to investigate Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) predictors associated to Alzheimer’s disease in the Alzheimer’s disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) dataset. Two data scenarios are investigated: one considering only the set of SNPs and another with the covariates age, sex, educational level and APOE4 genotype. The SNP rs2075650 and the APOE4 genotype are given as risk factors for AD, which is in line with the literature, and other four new SNPs are pointed, opening new hypotheses for in vivo analyses. These experiments demonstrate the potential of the new method for stable feature selection.

This prospective study provides data on long-term humoral immunogenicity of a heterologous off-label vaccine regimen combining the adenoviral vectored ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 from Astra-Zeneca (ChAd) with the mRNA-1273 vaccine from Moderna (m1273) in comparison to two different homologous mRNA vaccine schedules. Of the 316 COVID-19 naïve adult health care workers (HCW) included to complete a survey on vaccine-associated symptoms (VAS), 197 had received the homologous BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine from Pfizer/BioNTech (BNT/BNT), 76 the homologous m1273/m1273, and 43 the heterologous ChAd/m1273 vaccine regimen. Concentration of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in plasma 5-7 months after the second vaccine dose was higher in the m1273/m1273 and ChAd/m1273 than the BNT/BNT vaccine group. The frequency of systemic VAS after first vaccine dose was 86% after ChAd compared to 35% and 39% after BNT and m1273, respectively (p &lt; 0.0001), and after second vaccine dose highest (89%) in the m1273/m1273 group (p &lt; 0.001). Individuals with systemic VAS achieved higher levels of antibodies irrespective of vaccine regimen. In conclusion, VAS serve as a strong predictor of long-term humoral immune response, and the heterologous ChAd/m1273 vaccine regimen provides an at least equal long-term humoral immune response compared with the standard vaccine regimens used in Denmark.

Danyore Valley area is a new prospect of copper-gold mineralization in the Gilgit-Baltistan province, Kohistan terrane, northern Pakistan. The mineralization is Cu-Au vein-type, localized within quartz veins and controlled by a fracture system mainly trending NW and NE. The host units belong to the Ladakh-Kohistan arc terrane, which covers northern Pakistan and north-western India and mainly comprises Precambrian basement units, Paleozoic to Cenozoic magmatic rocks, and sedimentary strata. The mineralized wall rocks consist of Mesozoic gabbro and diorite, which have undergone an intensive hydrothermal alteration. The study area, Danyore Valley, has yet to be explored. The geological background and mineralization type in literature are scarce. Moreover, the tectonic setting, petrogenesis, age, and magmatic evolution of the gabbro-diorite hosting unit still need to be better understood. Furthermore, the sources of metals and mineralized fluids and the types of mineralization and alteration are also unexplored. This research's contribution presents the field investigation, microscopic observations, whole rock geochemistry (major, trace, and REE), mineral analysis (EPMA), in situ LA–ICP–MS zircon U–Pb age dating, and zircon trace elements data for Danyore Valley Cu-Au prospect of Kohistan Batholith. The current research work's objectives are to (a) constrain the emplacement ages of the Danyore Valley host rocks, (b) determine the petrogenesis and tectonic environment of the gabbro-diorite wall rocks, and (c) identify the mineralization style and alteration patterns of Cu-Au occurrences. The U-Pb isotopic data of studied zircons from Danyore Valley diorite specimens yielded concordia ages from 111.60 ± 0.90 Ma to 112.18 ± 0.74 Ma. Correspondingly, the gabbro rock sample displayed a concordia age of 110.21 ± 0.99 Ma, indicating the crystallization time of the host bodies is mainly the early cretaceous period (∼110 Ma). The findings of this study reveal that the calc-alkaline affinity and arc-like geochemical characteristics of the gabbro and diorite rocks have been characterized by a significant enrichment in large-ion lithophile elements and an apparent depletion in high-field strength elements. The parent magma probably originated from a partial melting process of mantle depletion, and geochemical traits are characteristic of magmas associated with subduction zones. The Danyore Valley area of Kohistan terrane is defined by the existence of several mineralized quartz veins, which are mainly sulfide assemblages. The sulfide ore is mainly comprised of chalcopyrite, pyrite, and bornite, with a smaller amount of covellite and sphalerite and significant traces of gold, which are distributed mainly in sulfides. Copper and gold mineralization of Danyore Valley is associated with phyllic, propylitic, and carbonatization alteration assemblages. Metal-rich quartz veins exhibit a spatial correlation with diorite and gabbro rocks. The discovery of several surface Cu-Au vein-type mineralized areas accompanying outcrops of copper supergene enrichment at the Danyore Valley prospect is significant evidence (predictor patterns) of porphyry-style deposits in the Gilgit district, Kohistan terrane, northern Pakistan. This work also advocates the importance of the Danyore Valley prospect and Kohistan Batholith region for further detailed geological studies.

Aluminium bronzes possess a unique combination of high strength and wear and corrosion resistance in aggressive environments; thus, these alloys find wide application in marine, shipbuilding, aviation, railway, offshore platform applications and other fields. Iron-aluminium bronzes (IABs) are the cheapest and most widely used. When the aluminium content is above 9.4 wt%, IAB is biphasic (i.e. it undergoes -transformation) and can be subjected to all heat-treatment types depending on the desired operating behaviour of the bronze component. This article presents correlations (mathematical models) between the primary mechanical characteristics (yield limit, tensile strength, elongation, hardness and impact toughness) and the ageing temperature and time of quench at 920°C in water Cu-11Al-6Fe bronze, obtained using the centrifugal casting method. The microstructure evolution was evaluated depending on the ageing temperature and time changes. Overall, the research was conducted in three successive inter-related stages: a one-factor-at-a-time study, planned experiment, and optimisations. Four optimisation tasks, which have the greatest importance for practice, were formulated and solved. The defined multiobjective optimisation tasks were solved by searching for the Pareto-optimal solution approach. The decisions were made through a nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) using QstatLab. The optimisation results were verified experimentally. Additional samples were made for this purpose, quenched at 920°C in water and subjected to subsequent ageing with the optimal values of the governing factors (ageing temperature and time) for the corresponding optimisation task. The comparison of the results for the mechanical characteristics with the theoretical optimisation results presents good agreement.

In laser joining of copper (Cu) and aluminum (Al) sheets, the Al sheet is widely chosen as the top surface for laser irradiation because of increased absorption of laser beam and lower melting temperature of Al in contrast to Cu. This research focus on welding from Cu side to Al sheet. The main objective of irradiating the laser beam from the copper side (Cu on top) is to exploit higher solubility of Al in Cu. A significantly lower laser power can be used with 515 nm laser in comparison to 1030 nm. In addition to low laser power, a stable welding is obtained with 515 nm. Because of this advantage, 515 nm is selected for the current research. By fusion of Cu and Al the two sheet metals are welded, with presence of beneficial Cu solid solution phase and Al+Al2Cu in the joint with the brittle phases intermixed between the ductile phase. Therefore the mixed composition strengthens the joint. However excessive mixing leads to formation of more detrimental phases and less ductile phases. Therefore optimum mixing must be maintained. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis indicate that large amount of beneficial Cu solid solution and Al rich phases is formed in the strong joint. From the tensile shear test for a strong joint, fracture is obtained on the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of Al. Therefore the key for welding from copper side is to have optimum melt with beneficial phases like Cu and Al+ Al2Cu and the detrimental phases intermixed between the ductile phases

To enhance the mechanical properties (i.e. strength and elongation) of the face-centered cubic (fcc) α-phase in the Au-Cu-Al system, this study focused on the introduction of the martensite phase (doubled B19 (DB19) crystal structure of Au2CuAl) via the manipulation of alloy compositions. Fundamental evaluations, such as microstructure observations, phase identifications, thermal analysis, tensile behavior examinations, and reflectance analysis have been conducted. The presence of fcc annealing twins was both observed in the optical microscope (OM) and the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. Both the strength and elongation of the alloys were greatly promoted while the DB19 martensite phase was introduced into the alloys. Amongst all the prepared specimens, the 47Au41Cu12Al and the 44Au44Cu12Al alloys performed the optimized mechanical properties. The enhancement of strength and ductility in these 2 alloys was achieved while the stress plateau was observed during the tensile deformation. A plot of the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) against fracture strain was constructed to illustrate the effects of the introduction of the DB19 martensite phase on the mechanical properties of the alloys. Regardless of the manipulation of the alloy compositions and the introduction of the DB19 martensite phase, the reflectance stayed almost identical to pure Au.

A 64-year-old woman with primary Sjogren’s syndrome which was not treated, was admitted to our hospital for nasal bleeding, oral bleeding, and purpura on her entire body. On this admission, laboratory findings were as follows: WBC counts, 8,910 /μL; hemoglobin, 9.9 g/dL; and platelet counts, 0.1×10⁴/μL. Although the anti-PLT antibody was positive, other autoimmune antibodies such as anti-DNA were negative. Moreover, cytomegalovirus IgM, Parbovirus B19 IgM, and Helicobacter pyroli IgG antibodies were not detected. No abnormal findings suggestive of infection were identified in the systemic examination. A bone marrow aspiration smear revealed normal bone marrow. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with primary Sjogren’s syndrome-related immune thrombocytopenia. The patient initially received intravenous immunoglobulin, methyl prednisolone pulse therapy, and subsequent high dose prednisolone without significant improvement. Therefore, eltrombopag, a thrombopoietin-receptor agonist, was added. Subsequently, erythromycin was also added, considering its immunomodulatory effects. After initiating the erythromycin treatment, the platelet counts increased. Therefore, add-on eltrombopag and erythromycin treatment was effective; however, the platelet counts gradually decreased with reducing the prednisolone dosage. Instead of increasing the prednisolone dosage again, tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, was successfully added. Consequently, the prednisolone dosage could be reduced. This case shows that treatment with erythromycin and tacrolimus may be efficacious when conventional immunosuppressants show limited effectiveness in primary Sjogren’s syndrome-related immune thrombocytopenia.

Phosphorus (P) is an important and irreplaceable macronutrient. It is central to energy and information storage and exchange in living cell. P is an element with “broken geochemical cycle” since it lacks abundant volatile compounds capable of closing the P cycle. P fertilizers are critical for global food security, but the reserves of minable P are scarce and non-evenly distributed between countries of the world. Accordingly, the risks of global crisis due to limited access to P reserves is expected to be graver than those entailed by competition for fossil hydrocarbons. Paradoxically, despite the scarcity and value of P reserves, its usage is extremely inefficient: current waste rate reaches 80% giving rise to a plethora of unwanted consequences such as eutrophication leading to harmful algal blooms. Microalgal biotechnology comprise a promising solution to tackle this challenge. The proposed review briefly presents the relevant aspects of microalgal P metabolism such as cell P reserve composition and turnover, and the regulation of P uptake kinetics for maximization of P uptake efficiency with the focus on novel knowledge. Multifaceted role of polyPhosphates, the largest cell depot for P, is discussed with emphasis on the P toxicity mediated by short-chain polyPhosphates. Opportunities and hurdles of P bioremoval via P uptake from waste streams with microalgal cultures, either suspended or immobilized, is discussed along with the role of bacterial components of microalgal-bacterial consortia in these processes. Possible avenues of P-rich microalgal biomass such as biofertilizer production or extraction of valuable polyPhosphates and other bioproducts are considered. The review concludes with a comprehensive assessment of the current potential of microalgal biotechnology for ensuring the sustainable usage of phosphorus.

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a progressive, multifactorial, immune-mediated disease characterized by chronic inflammation of any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Pediatric patients present with a more extensive form of the disease, especially in the upper GI tract with various histopathological inflammatory patterns. Our study aims to analyze the endoscopic and histopathological findings in children with diagnosed CD and compare results on the initial and follow-up tests. Our study included 100 children and adolescents with CD, with performed endoscopic and histopathological (HP) procedures. The results of multiple biopsies performed in these 8 years were matched and compared. We found a statistically significant decrease in stool changes, weight loss, and abdominal pain as presenting symptoms, and in the fecal calprotectin levels. On esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ileo-colonoscopy 36.59% and 64.86% patients had specific findings, respectively. Non-caseating granulomas were found on 9% of oesophageal, 18% of gas-tric, and 12% of duodenal biopsies. In the lower GI tract, we have observed a disease progression in the rectum and descending colon between the first and second biopsies. Our study showed that more than a third of patients had specific endoscopic (36.59%) and histopathologic (32%) findings in the upper GI tract, and an additional 23% had HP findings highly suggestive of CD. We demonstrated the importance of regular endoscopic and histopathological assessments of pediatric CD patients.

In recent years, marine natural products have become one of the most important resources of novel lead compounds for critical diseases associated with age. Spirulina, a dietary supplement made from blue-green algae (cyanobacteria: scientific name Arthrospira platensis), is particularly rich in phycocyanin, a phycobiliprotein, which accounts for up to 20% of this cyanobacterium’s dry weight and is considered responsible for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Although the anti-aging activity of phycocyanin has been investigated, how exactly this compound works against aging remains elusive. Aim of our research is to use the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism to investigate the anti-aging properties of phycocyanin from A. platensis. Our results show that phycocyanin has a powerful anti-aging effect, greatly extending the chronological life span of yeast cells in a dose-dependent way, being the effect pronounced also when cells were grown in SD medium under calorie restriction conditions (0.2% glucose). Both ROS and accumulation of dead cells were followed by staining chronologically aged cells with dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR123) and propidium iodide (PI). Interestingly, we found that most of the aged phycocyanin treated cells, which were unable to form colonies, were actually ROS+/PI–. Finally, we show that the moment in which phycocyanin is added to the culture does not substantially influence its effectiveness in counteracting chronological aging.

Introduction and Purpose: Nurses are expected to be competent in practice based on the domain of standards and interpersonal soft skills (ISS). Nurses are faced with inadequate physical assessment 28%, formulating diagnoses 56%, plans 34%, implementation 31%, evaluation 37,5%, and communication skills 41%. Aims to develop an ISS learning model based on transformative learning theory and digitalization (TLTD) to improve nurses’ competencies. Method: Used Explanatory cross-sectional involved 190 practitioner nurses. Variables of individual characters (X1), facilities (X2), Social environment support/SES (X3), TLTD (X4), ISS (X5), and nursing competencies (Y) were measured. Data was collected using a checklist questionnaire, conducted on 6 June to 10 August 2022 at Dili, Baucau, and Maliana hospitals. Used descriptive and inferential analysis with SEM-PLS. Result: Five of the 11 hypotheses of statistical p-value < 0,05 and T-Test > 1,96, including X2>X4, X3>X5, X4>X5, and X5>y, to form ISS learning model. The characteristic of respondents were 81,8% young adults, 67,9% women, 57,8% undergraduates, judging the previous training 35% was unsuccessful, and 45,8% did not meet expectations. Learning facilities that are still lacking include policies 23,7%, curriculum 23,4%, guideline 22,7%, modules 27,9%, infrastructure 20,3%, social environment support 24,2% low, organizational support, 30,0% low peer support and 26,3% low family support. The average TLTD is 25,3% to 34,2%, ISS 22,1% to 30,5%, and nurse competence 25,3% to 30,5%.Suggestion: Result of the study become base to improve nurse’s competencies. Conclusion: Learning model was formed by facilities, SES, TLTD, ISS, and nurses’ competencies.

Background: Takayasu’s arteritis is a rare type of vasculitis, with severe complications like stroke, ischemic heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, secondary hypertension, aneurysms. Diagnosis is conducted by clinical and angiographic criteria. Treatment is medical and surgical, but unfortunately, the outcome is reserved. Case presentation: A 34- year- old Caucasian women had an ischemic stroke (2009). She was diagnosed with Takayasu’s arteritis and she received treatment with methotrexate, prednisolone, antiplatelet agents, with a mild improvement of clinical state. After 5 years (2014) she associated ascending aorta aneurysm, pulmonary hypertension, mild aortic regurgitation. The surgical treatment solved both ascending aorta aneurysm and left carotid artery stenosis (ultrasound in 2009 and computed tomography angiogram in 2014). Morphopathology revealed typical appearance for Takayasu’s arteritis. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNF-inhibitors) were associated to methotrexate. At 48 years (2023) she developed coronary heart disease (angina, electrocardiogram); echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary hypertension; angiography described normal coronary arteries, abdominal aorta pseudoaneurysm and arterial-venous fistula, with origin in right coronary artery and drainage on medium pulmonary artery. The patient refused surgical/ interventional treatment; she received again TNF- inhibitors, methotrexate, antiplatelet agents, statins. Conclusions: This case report presents us a severe form of Takayasu’s arteritis. We consider that morphopathology had a great importance in revealing to clinicians the typical appearance and the stadialization of inflammatory arterial process: acute or chronic. The verdict of morphopathologist was chronic phase, with acute relapses, so we decided that immunosuppressive treatment was still necessary.

Machine learning approaches are currently used to understand or model complex physical systems. In general, a substantial number of samples must be collected to create a model with reliable results. However, collecting numerous data is often relatively time-consuming or expensive. Moreover, the problems of industrial interest tend to be more and more complex and depending on a high number of parameters. High dimensional problems intrinsically involve the need of large data amount through the curse of dimensionality. That is why, new approaches based on smart sampling techniques are investigated to minimize the number of samples to be given to train the model, such as Active Learning methods. Here, we propose a technique based on a combination of Fisher information matrix and of Sparse Proper Generalized Decomposition that enables the definition of a new Active Learning informativeness criterion in high dimensions. We provide examples proving the performances of this technique on a theoretical 5D polynomial function and on an industrial crash simulation application. The results prove that the proposed strategy over-perform the usual ones.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease; sleep disorders; GBA; Parkin

Hypsizygus marmoreus has become one of the most popular edible mushrooms due to its high nu-tritional and economic value. Previous researchers found that Serratia odorifera could promote the growth of H. marmoreus by producing and secreting some of its inducers. However, the specific mechanism of action was still unclear. In this study, we found that exogenous addition of sterile fermentation filtrate (HZSO-1), quorum sensing (QS signaling molecules, 3-oxo-C6-HSL, cy-clo(Pro-Leu), and cyclo(Tyr-Leu) could significantly promote the growth of H. marmoreus, increase the number of clamp junctions, and the diameter of mycelium (P < 0.05). In addition, non-targeted metabolomic analysis has revealed that 706 metabolites were detected in the treated group. Of these, 307 metabolites were significantly different (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, 54 and 86 metabolites were significantly increased and decreased in the HZSO-1 group, respec-tively (P < 0.05). We speculated that the sterile fermentation filtrate of S. odorifera could mediate the carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism of H. marmoreus by influencing the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) to increase the energy supply for the growth and development of the mycelium. The above results will further reveal the growth-promoting mechanism of S. odorifera on H. mar-moreus.

Based on the high-precision quantitative measurement ability, the S-band subsystem of China's high- resolution aviation system carried out the agricultural application test for the first time in Jilin elm, China. The experiment is mainly carried out in combination with vegetation growth, soil moisture content inversion, wheat straw returning and ground feature classification. Through the design of quantitative measurement scheme, the results of different straw coverage and observation at different times are compared, which shows the prospect of S-band full polarization synthetic aperture radar system in the field of agricultural application.

Autophagy is a highly conserved catabolic process in eukaryotic cells. Reactive nitrogen species play roles as inductors and signaling molecules of autophagy. A key mechanism of NO-mediated signaling is S-nitrosylation, a posttranslational modification (PTM) of proteins at cysteine resi-dues. In the present work we analyzed the patterns of protein S-nitrosylation during the induc-tion of autophagy in Triticum aestivum roots. The accumulation of S-nitrosylated proteins in the cells during autophagy induced by KNO2 and antimycin A was visualized using monoclonal an-tibodies by Western blot analysis, and proteins were identified using a standard bottom-up pro-teomics approach. Protein S-nitrosylation is a labile and reversible PTM, and therefore SNO group can be lost during experimental procedures. Subsequent bioinformatic analysis using predictive algorithms and protein-ligand docking showed that identified proteins possess hypothetical S-nitrosylation sites. Analyzing protein-protein interaction networks enabled us to discover the targets that can directly interact with autophagic proteins, and those that can interact with them indirectly via key multifunctional regulatory proteins. In this study, we show that S-nitrosylation is a key mechanism of NO-mediated regulation of autophagy in wheat roots. A combination of in silico predictive algorithms with a mass spectrometry analysis provides a targeted approach for the identification of S-nitrosylated proteins.

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic progressive disease caused by various factors, and causes various cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Reducing the plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) is the primary goal in preventing and treating AS. Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) plays a crucial role in regulating LDL-C metabolism. Panax notoginseng has potent lipid-reducing effects and protects against CVDs, and its saponins induce vascular dilatation, inhibit thrombus formation, and are used in treating CVDs. However, the anti-AS effect of the secondary metabolite, 20(S) -protopanaxatriol (20(S)-PPT), remains unclear. In this study, the anti-AS effect and molecular mechanism of 20(S)-PPT were investigated in vivo and in vitro by western blotting, real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), immunofluorescence staining, and other assays. The in vitro experiments revealed that 20(S)-PPT reduced the levels of PCSK9 in the supernatant of HepG2 cells, upregulated low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) protein levels, promoted LDL uptake by HepG2 cells, and reduced PCSK9 mRNA transcription by upregulating the levels of FoxO3 protein and mRNA and decreasing the levels of HNF1α protein and mRNA. The in vivo experiments revealed that 20(S)-PPT upregulated aortic αSMA expression, increased the stability of atherosclerotic plaques, and reduced aortic plaque formation induced by a high-cholesterol fed in ApoE-/- mice (HCF group). Additionally, 20(S)-PPT reduced the aortic expression of CD68, reduced inflammation in the aortic root, and alleviated the hepatic lesions in the HCF group. The study revealed that 20(S)-PPT inhibited LDLR degradation via PCSK9 to alleviate AS.

Sepsis is a serious and life-threatening medical emergency associated with dysregulated host immune responses to infection. Like cerebral vascular or acute cardiovascular incidents, sepsis is considered a time-dependent condition having severe and long-term consequences on human health. Apart from organ support, prompt administration of appropriate antimicrobial therapy is crucial to limit the burden of complications related to sepsis in ICU patients. The management of septic patients requires comprehensive and multi-disciplinary strategies for an adequate diagnosis. Most of the ICU population receives empirical antibiotic therapy without having a confirmed diagnosis. The misuse of antibiotics in intensive care units may increase the possibility of developing multidrug resistance along with considerable ecological side effects. The first doses of empirical anti-microbial therapy are slightly higher, regardless of the presence or absence of organ dysfunction, which may upregulate the production of circulating pro-and-anti-inflammatory mediators, having negative effects on the general well-being of the patients. This notion supports the introduction of individualized antimicrobial approaches based on local patterns of resistance to ensure the appropriate dosage of empirical therapy, as well as to limit the emergence of multidrug resistance in advanced-care patients. The adequacy and treatment duration must be viewed at regular intervals for effective de-escalation, and novel diagnostic approaches must be introduced to improve the quality of care in the ICU population.

Till date there are three full length COVID 19 virus genome sequences available from India. The earlier two were reported from Kerala, Southern India and the more recent one has been reported from Gujarat, western part of India. In this paper we report two novel mutations in the Spike protein sequence of Gujarat’s isolate. These mutations are based on comparison with the original Wuhan sequence. The two mutations have been found to be located just upstream and downstream of the receptor binding domain (RBD). Out of these two one has also been found to affect the secondary structure of the S1 domain. Since both of these mutations lie near the receptor binding domain, they might influence the spike receptor interactions by changing the conformation of the spike protein S1 domain. These mutations are uniquely placed and might be important in the context of vaccine engineering and therapeutic interventions.

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is recognized worldwide as one of the major agents of dairy cow intra-mammary infections. This microorganism can express a wide spectrum of pathogenic factors used to attach, colonize, invade and infect the host. The present study evaluated 120 isolates from eight different countries that were genotyped by RS-PCR and investigated for 26 different virulence factors to increase the knowledge on the circulating genetic lineages among the cow population with mastitis. New genotypes were observed for South African strains while for all the other countries new variants of existing genotypes were detected. For each country, a specific genotypic pattern was found. Among the virulence factors, fmtB, cna, clfA and leucocidins genes were the most frequent. The sea and sei genes were present in seven out of eight countries; seh showed high frequency in South American countries (Brazil, Colombia, Argentina), while sel was harboured especially in one Mediterranean country (Tunisia). The etb, seb and see genes were not detected in any of the isolates, while only two isolates were MRSA (Germany and Italy) confirming the low diffusion of methicillin resistance microorganism among bovine mastitis isolates. This work demonstrated the wide variety of S. aureus genotypes found in dairy cattle worldwide. This condition suggests that considering the region of interest might help to formulate strategies for reducing the infection spreading.

Variable-Angle Tow (VAT) laminates can improve straight fiber composites mechanical properties thanks to the application of curvilinear fibers. This characteristic allows to achieve ambitious objectives for design and performance purposes. Nevertheless, the wider design space and the higher number of parameters result in a more complex structural problem. Among the various approaches that have been used for VATs study, Carrera’s Unified Formulation (CUF) allows to obtain multiple theories within the same framework, guaranteeing a good compromise between the results accuracy and the computational cost. In this article, the linear buckling behavior of VAT laminates is analyzed through the extension of CUF 2D plate models within the Reissner’s Mixed Variational Theorem (RMVT). Results show that RMVT can better approximate the prebuckling non-uniform stress field of the plate when compared to standard approaches, thus improving the prediction of the linear buckling loads of VAT composites.

With the aim to develop novel scaffolds for sustained release of drugs, we initially developed an easy approach for the synthesis of α,ω-homobifunctional mercaptoacyl poly(alkyl oxide)s. This was based on the esterification of the terminal hydroxyl groups of poly(alkyl oxide)s with suitably S-4-methoxytrityl (Mmt) protected mercapto acids, followed by removal of the acid labile S-Mmt group. This method allowed the efficient synthesis of the title compounds in high yield and purity, which were further used in the development a thioether cross-linked liposome scaffold, by thia-Michael reaction of the terminal thiol groups with preformed nano-sized liposomes bearing maleimide groups on their surface. The reaction process was followed by 1H-NMR, using a Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) relaxation dispersion NMR experiment (1H-NMR CPMG), which allowed real-time monitoring and optimization of the reaction process. The thioether cross-linked liposomal scaffold that was synthesized was proven to preserve the nanosized characteristics of the initial liposomes and allowed sustained release of calcein (which was used as a chromophore), providing evidence for the efficient synthesis of a novel drug release scaffold consisted of nanoliposome building blocks.

Our goal was to determine the cellular immune response (CIR) among a random sample of the Borriana COVID-19 cohort (Spain) to identify its associated factors and their relationship with infection, reinfection and sequelae. We conducted a nested case-control study using a randomly selected sample of 225 individuals age 18 and older, including 36 individual naïve to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and 189 infected patients. We employed flow cytometry-based immunoassays for intracellular cytokine staining, utilizing Wuhan and BA.2 antigens and chemoluminescence microparticle immunoassay for detection SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Logistic regression models were used. A total of 215 (95.6%) participants exhibited T-cell response (TCR) to at least one antigen. Positive responses of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were 89.8% and 85.3% respectively. No difference in CIR was found for naïve and infected patients. Patients who experienced sequelae exhibited higher CIR than those without. A positive correlation was observed between TCR and Anti-Spike IgG levels. Factors positive associated with TCR included A-blood group, number of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine doses received, and Anti-N IgM; factors inversely related were the time elapsed since the last vaccine dose or infection, and B-blood group. These findings contribute valuable insights into the nuance immune landscape shaped by SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination.

The activity and cyclability of Cu-MOF-74 as catalyst was studied for the ligand-free C-O cross-coupling reaction of 4-nitrobenzaldehyde (NB) with phenol (Ph) to form 4-formyldiphenyl ether (FDE). Cu-MOF-74 is characterized by unsaturated copper sites in a highly porous metal-organic framework. The influence of solvent, reaction temperature, NB/Ph ratio, catalyst concentration and basic agent (type and concentration) were evaluated. High conversions were achieved at 120°C, 5 mol% of catalyst, NB/Ph ratio of 1:2, DMF as solvent and 1 equivalent of K2CO3 base. The activity of Cu-MOF-74 material was higher than other ligand-free copper catalytic systems tested in this study. This catalyst was easily separated and reused in five successive runs, achieving a remarkable performance without significant porous framework degradation. The leaching of copper species in the reaction medium was negligible. The O-arylation between NB and Ph took place only in the presence of Cu-MOF-74 material, being negligible without the solid catalyst.

The editorial explores the realm of emerging translational research in neurology and psychiatry, providing insights into various subjects, including neurodegenerative disorders and innovative therapeutic methods. The main objective is to study neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, with a particular emphasis on techniques for neural regeneration and repair. The editorial highlights the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to studying and treating complex neurological and psychiatric conditions. This involves thoroughly reviewing research papers on the causes, development, biomarkers, and treatment options for these conditions. The editorial emphasizes the necessity of using multidisciplinary and integrative methods to gain a deeper understanding and improve the treatment of these conditions. The development of an animal model for recurrent primary dysmenorrhea showcases the innovative techniques employed in the investigation of gynecological disorders, illustrating the capacity of translational research to connect fundamental scientific knowledge with practical medical applications. The cooperative endeavors of researchers and clinicians emphasized in this editorial lay the foundation for revolutionary advancements that hold the potential to enhance outcomes for individuals afflicted with neurological and psychiatric disorders globally.

Recent research has implicated the gut microbiota in the development of lymphoma. Dysbiosis of the gut microbial community can disrupt the production of gut microbial metabolites, thereby impacting host physiology and potentially contributing to lymphoma. Dysbiosis-driven release of gut microbial metabolites such as lipopolysaccharides can promote chronic inflammation, potentially elevating the risk of lymphoma. In contrast, gut microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, have shown promise in preclinical studies by promoting regulatory T-cell function, suppressing inflammation, and preventing lymphoma. Another metabolite, urolithin A, exhibited immunomodulatory and antiproliferative properties against lymphoma cell lines in vitro. While research on the role of gut microbial metabolites in lymphoma is limited, this article emphasizes the need to comprehend their significance, including therapeutic applications, molecular mechanisms of action, and interactions with standard chemotherapies. The article also suggests promising directions for future research in this emerging lymphoma and gut microbiome investigation field.