Catalase, an antioxidant enzyme widely produced in mammalian cells and bacteria, is crucial in mitigating oxidative stress in a hostile environment. This function enhances the intracellular survivability of various intracellular growth pathogens, including Brucella abortus. In this study, to determine whether the inhibition of catalase can inhibit the intracellular growth of Brucella (B.) abortus, we employed 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole (3-AT), a catalase inhibitor, in both RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and an ICR mouse model during Brucella infection. The intracellular growth assay indicated that 3-AT exerts growth-inhibitory effects on B. abortus within macrophages. Aside from that, it contributes to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and the formation of nitric oxide. Notably, 3-AT diminishes the activation of the nucleus transcription factor (NF-κB) and modulates cytokine secretion within infected cells. In our mouse model, the administration of 3-AT reduced B. abortus proliferation within the spleen and liver of infected mice. This reduction was accompanied by a diminished immune response to infection, as indicated by lowered levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and altered CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio. These results suggest the protective and immunomodulatory effects of 3-AT treatment against Brucella infection.

Background The link between age at marriage and first birth in explaining completed family size is not always direct, due to heterogeneity in circumstances, that compel individual women to marry or initiate childbearing at a particular age. We analyzed data for 1020 women aged 45-49 in 2014 of the 1965-1969 birth cohort from the 2013-14 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS). Methods We fitted a bivariate and multivariate multinomial logistic regression to establish the relationship between a mother’s age at first marriage and at first birth on completed family size (CFS). Chi-square test of proportions measuring differences in proportions and relative risk ratios (RRR) with confidence intervals at 95% are reported. Results Our results show that the average CFS was 6.7 (95% CI: 6.5 – 6.9) among women completing their reproductive span in 2014 with mean age at first marriage and birth being 18.3 years (95% CI: 18.0 – 18.5) and 18.9 years (95% CI: 18.7 – 19.1) respectively. Women marrying at younger ages and having their first birth at younger ages were more likely (RRR: 1.187; 95% CI: 1.138-1.239 and RRR: 0.195; 95% CI: 0.074-0.511 respectively) to have higher CFS than their compatriots that initiated both marriage and childbearing at or after age 22 controlling for covariates as presented in the controlled model. The independent effects model shows that the risk of having 1-3 children compared to 6 or more children was lower (RRR: 0.073; 95% CI: 0.009-0.611; RRR: 0.136; 95% CI: 0,046-0.402 and RRR: 0.421; 05% CI: 0.135-1.312) for women whose ages at first marriage were <15, 15-18 and 19-21 respectively relative to 22+. Women with 1-3 children were 2.5 times more likely to use contraception than women with 6 or more children. Conclusion Having no education, being a rural resident and having a medium household wealth all increase the risk of having higher CFS. Women that marry before age 19 have a higher likelihood of having 6 or more children by the end of their reproductive period. The study concludes that apart from a woman’s age at first marriage and first birth, a complex network of factors interact to determined CFS.

This article examines older physical education (PE) teachers’ wellbeing over the course of their career in Finland. The study highlights challenges to physical and mental functioning as well as how teachers respond to these challenges. The six interviewees were over 55-year-old PE teachers, whose career had lasted for more than 30 years. Qualitative methods were used in the collection, transcription and analysis of the research data. The qualitative analysis consisted of a series of interpretations that visualised the world described by the interviewees. All the research participants had physical problems that affected their teaching and make teachers consider a potential career change. To be able to teach, teachers adapted their ways of working according to the challenges brought by age and injuries. The research participants found that the challenges caused by musculoskeletal problems and ageing were an inevitable part of the profession. They emphasised the positive sides of the work: the profession permits varied workdays. In addition, the teachers noted that their work provides them with opportunities to remain physically fit. Teaching health education is a means to lighten the workload of older teachers. PE teachers enjoy their profession and are dedicated to it, despite all the challenges. The interviewed participants clearly experienced work engagement. Our development proposal for teacher education is that future PE teachers be informed about the risks involved in the profession. Such activity helps young teachers reflect proactively on the measures taken to maintain their functioning during their career and on perspectives related to the ways of working.

This article contains the theorems concerning the algebraic dependence of polynomial mappings with the constant Jacobian having two zeros at infinity. The work is related to the issues of the classical Jacobian Conjecture. This hypothesis affirm that the polynomial mapping of two complex variables with constant non-zero Jacobian is invertible. The Jacobian Conjecture is equivalent to the fact that polynomial mappings with constant non-zero Jacobian do not have two zeros at infinity, therefore it is equivalent to the two theorems given in the work. The proofs of these theorems proceeds by induction.

in this paper, the optical channel performance with respect to varying scintillation index parameters is studied. Where different channel effects are studied and analyzed. In free-space optical (FSO) communication, the major drawback of the optical communication system is the atmospheric turbulence (AT). This effect is nonlinear with optical channel altitude being changed. Therefore, the power margenal (PM) required for such a channel is also inconstant respectively. In this thesis, we analyze AT effect on the optical channel with different altitudes. Such that we found the difference in the range of PM required for such optical link distance. In our result, the Bit Error Rate (BER) VS. PM required is measured. The optical channel model is Log-Normal considered and the BER threshold BER^th = 10^-10 is taken.

As wind turbine power requirements have evolved from the order of kilowatts (kW) to the order of several megawatts (MW), wind turbine components have been subjected to more demanding and critical operating conditions. The wind turbine must cope with higher wind loads due to larger blade sizes, which are also time-varying and ultimately higher power levels. One of the challenges in the manufacture of high-power wind turbines lies in the gearbox and consists of achieving ever greater power density without compromising efficiency, i.e., greater load capacity with lower weight (and production cost) and reduced power losses. In this paper we will analyze the influence that certain design parameters have on the size and weight of the gearbox components and therefore of the gearbox itself. For this purpose, the theoretical model of the gearbox will be planned and the influence of calculation parameters on the gearbox design will be analyzed. The influence of material, modulus and tooth width on the size and weight of the gearbox will be observed. Critical stresses are also calculated. The goal is to prepare the theoretical basis for an optimization process that will result in a gearbox as compact as possible without compromising the service life of the components.

As shown in former papers, the nonadiabatic Heisenberg model presents a novel mechanism of Cooper pair formation generated by the strongly correlated atomic-like motion of the electrons in narrow, roughly half-filled "superconducting bands". These are energy bands represented by optimally localized spin-dependent Wannier functions adapted to the symmetry of the material under consideration. The formation of Cooper pairs is not the result of an attractive electron-electron interaction but can be described in terms of quantum mechanical constraining forces constraining the electrons to form Cooper pairs. There is theoretical and experimental evidence that only this nonadiabatic mechanism operating in superconducting bands may produce eigenstates in which the electrons form Cooper pairs. These constraining forces stabilize the Cooper pairs in any superconductor, whether conventional or unconventional. Here we report evidence that also the experimentally found superconducting state in bismuth at ambient as well as at high pressure is connected with a narrow, roughly half-filled superconducting band in the respective band structure. This observation corroborates once more the significance of constraining forces in the theory of superconductivity.

Falls at height are among the major causes of fatal accidents at work, especially in the construction sector. Maintaining balance while performing a tool with both hands generates physical efforts and mental loading that needs to be managed for workers’ safety and health. The purpose of the study is to compare perceived (dis)comfort (overall and localized), the ergonomic risk and the perceived effort through the acquired postures that subjects assumed during the execution of simple and common tasks both on a ladder and on the ground. 26 subjects were asked to perform four tasks in both conditions: top screwing, frontal screwing, object picking from the bottom forward, and object picking from the bottom sideways. Subjective and objective data were gathered for assessing subjective experience (discomfort and effort, perceived) and ergonomic risk. Results highlighted few ergonomic risk differences among “on ladder” and “on ground” tasks, while subjective data reveal significant differences in different scenarios. Main results regard knees and neck areas as the most critical ones.

This article studies examines the relationship of literature, ideology, and reading through a study of language, or la langue, as explored by De Man, Derrida, and Lacan. It attempts to show that structure, assumed to be the given of language, even within deconstruction, is, as structure, that which undoes structure. Literature explores this possibility of language, which is that it be and not be at the same time. The article finishes by studying the connection between this idea of literature as the possibility of language and the possibility of man, an important theme of the above three thinkers.

Background: Most sepsis patients died during their first episode and the long-term survival post discharge was low. Major adverse cardiovascular events and repeated infections were regarded as the major causes in such conditions. No definite medications were proven to effectively improve the long-term outcome. We aimed to examine the benefit of statins on the long-term outcome of survived sepsis patients. Methods: Between 1999 and 2013, a total of 220,082 patients with the first episode of sepsis hospitalization were included and 134,448 ones (61.09%) survived to discharge. The survived patients who subsequently had statins use of >30 cumulative defined daily doses (cDDDs) post discharge were defined as the statin users. After propensity score matching of 1:5, a total of 7,356 and 36,780 survived patients were retrieved as the study (statin-users) and comparison cohort (non-statin users), respectively. The main outcome was the long term survival post discharge. HR with 95% CI was calculated using the Cox regression model to evaluate the effectiveness of statins with further stratification analyses according to cDDDs. Results: The study cohort, that is, the statin users had an adjusted HR of 0.29 (95% CI, 0.27-0.31) in long term mortality rate compared with the comparison cohort. For statin users with the cDDDs of 30–180, 180–365, and >365, the adjusted HRs were 0.32, 0.22, and 0.16, respectively, (95% CI, 0.30-0.34, 0.19-0.26, and 0.12-0.23, respectively) compared with the non-statin users (defined as statins use <30 cDDDs post discharge), and the P for trend <.0001. In the sensitivity analysis, after excluding the survived patients who died within three and six months post discharge, the adjusted HR of statins use remained significant (0.35, 95% CI 0.32-0.37 and 0.42, 95% CI 0.39-0.45, respectively). Conclusions: Statins decreased the long-term mortality post sepsis. Further randomized control trial deserved to be conducted to confirm this observation.

In this work, the author employs the quantum hydrodynamic formalism to achieve the geometrization of spacetime for describing the gravitational interaction within the framework of quantum theory. This approach allows for the development of an equation of gravity that is mathematically connected to the fermion and boson fields. This achievement is accomplished by incorporating two fundamental principles: covariance of the quantum field equations and the principle of least action. By considering these principles, a theory is established that enables the calculation of gravitational corrections to Quantum Electrodynamics, and potentially, to the standard model of particle physics as well. The theory also provides an explanation for two phenomena: the existence of a cosmological pressure density similar to quintessence, that is compatible with the small value of the observed cosmological constant, and the breaking of matter-antimatter symmetry at high energies offering insights into why there is an imbalance between the two in the early universe. In the cosmological modeling of the theory, there exists a proposal to account for the formation of supermassive black holes that are accompanied by their own surrounding galaxies, without relying on the process of mass accretion. The model, in accordance with recent observations conducted by the James Webb Space Telescope, supports the notion that galactic configurations were established relatively early in the history of the universe, shortly after the occurrence of the Big Bang.

The enhancement of Fusarium head blight (FHB) resistance is one of the best options to reduce mycotoxin contamination in wheat. This study has aimed to verify that the genotypes with high tolerance to deoxynivalenol could guarantee an overall minimization of the sanitary risk, by evaluating the contamination of regulated, modified and emerging mycotoxins on durum wheat cvs with different degrees of FHB susceptibility, grown under different meteorological condi-tions, in 8 growing seasons in North-West Italy. The years which were characterized by frequent and heavy rainfall in spring, were also those with the highest contamination of deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, moniliformin and enniatins. The most FHB resistant genotypes resulted in the lowest contamination of all the mycotoxins but showed the highest deoxyniva-lenol-3-glucoside/deoxynivalenol ratio and moniliformin/deoxynivalenol ratio. An inverse re-lationship between the amount of deoxynivalenol and the deoxyniva-lenol-3-glucoside/deoxynivalenol ratio was recorded for all the cvs and all the years. Converse-ly, the enniatins/deoxynivalenol ratio had a less intense relationship with cv tolerance to FHB. In conclusion, even though the more tolerant cvs, showed higher relative relationships between modified/emerging mycotoxins and native/target mycotoxins than the susceptible ones, they showed lower absolute levels of contamination of both emerging and modified mycotoxins.

To design properly and optimizate liquid-assisted processes such as reactive infiltration for fabricating light weight and corrosion resistant SiC/TiSi2 composites, the interfacial phenomena taking place when liquid Si-rich Si-Ti alloys are in contact with glassy carbon (GC) were investigated for the first time by wetting tests performed by both the sessile and pendant drop methods at T = 1450°C. Specifically, two different Si-rich Si-Ti alloys were selected, and the obtained results in terms of contact angle values, spreading kinetics, reactivity, and developed interface microstructures were compared with experimental observations previously obtained for the liquid Si-rich Si-Ti eutectics processed under the same operating conditions. The increase of the Si content did not affected the final contact angle values. Contrarily, the final developed microstructure at the interface as well as the spreading kinetics were observed as weakly dependent on the composition. From the practical point of view, Si-Ti alloy compositions with a Si-content falling in the simple eutectic region of the phase diagram might be potentially used as infiltrant materials of C- and SiC-based composites.

This study investigated mortality discrepancies in Korea, 2000-2020, with a focus on age, gender, and preventable causes of death, and their impact on life expectancy at birth. The study utilized data from Korean Standard Classification of Diseases and OECD/Eurostat lists of preventable and treatable causes of death and employed Arriaga's method. Noteworthy findings revealed gender disparities in life expectancy increases, with male gaining an advantage over females from 2000-2020 (8.142 years for males versus 6.806 years for females). The most significant increase in life expectancy was found to be in males aged 70-74 and females aged 75-79. The gender gap in LEB is narrowing and that the main age group contributing to the gender gap are getting older. Reduced gains in life expectancy at birth resulted from avoidable mortality, contributing 57.3% to the increase. Cerebrovascular disease and transport accidents were positive contributors, whereas suicide and certain cancers were negative contributors. The changes in mortality for individuals aged 65 and over had an impact of 45.44% (males) and 71.01% (females) on life expectancy gains. This study offers a novel approach in evaluating avoidable mortality and life expectancy, having the potential to improve international health indicators and inform health policies.

Community-led initiatives have emerged as powerful drivers of change in the realm of local environmental protection. This qualitative study, conducted in Acmac, Iligan City in 2020, delves into the motivations, strategies, challenges, and outcomes of community-led initiatives, shedding light on their transformative potential. Through interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the study explores the themes of community empowerment, collaborative decision-making, environmental justice, sustainable practices, and policy advocacy. The findings reveal the significance of bottom-up approaches, emphasizing the role of community engagement in achieving environmental sustainability. The study contributes to the literature by filling gaps in understanding and providing insights into the dynamics and effectiveness of community-led initiatives. The implications of the findings extend beyond the local context, highlighting the need for inclusive environmental practices and policy frameworks. By fostering community empowerment and collaborative action, this research sets the stage for future research and the promotion of community-led initiatives worldwide.

The aerosol optical depth is an important indicator of aerosol particle properties and associated radiative impacts. AOD determination is therefore very important to achieve relevant climate modeling. Most remote sensing techniques to retrieve aerosol optical depth are applicable to daytime given the high level of light available. The night represents half of the time but in such conditions only a few remote sensing techniques are available. Among these techniques, the most reliable are moon photometers and star photometers. In this paper, we attempt to fill gaps in the aerosol detection performed with the aforementioned techniques using night sky brightness measurements during moonless nights with the novel CoSQM: a portable, low cost and open-source multispectral photometer. In this paper, we present an innovative method for estimating the aerosol optical depth by using an empirical relationship between the zenith night sky brightness measured at night with the CoSQM and the aerosol optical depth retrieved at daytime from the AErosol Robotic NETwork. Such a method is especially suited to light-polluted regions with light pollution sources located within a few kilometers of the observation site. A coherent day-to-night aerosol optical depth and Ångström Exponent evolution in a set of 354 days and nights from August 2019 to February 2021 was verified at the location of Santa Cruz de Tenerife on the island of Tenerife, Spain. The preliminary uncertainty of this technique was evaluated using the variance under stable day-to-night conditions, set at 0.02 for aerosol optical depth and 0.75 for Ångström Exponent. These results indicate the set of CoSQM and the proposed methodology appear to be a promising tool to add new information on the aerosol optical properties at night, which could be of key importance to improve climate predictions.

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

With the growing size and use of night lights time series from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite Day/Night Band (DNB), it is important to understand the stability of the dataset. All satellites observe differences in pixel values during repeat observations. In the case of night lights data, these changes can be due to both environmental effects and changes in light emission. Here we examine the stability of individual locations of particular large scale light sources (e.g. airports, prisons) in the monthly composites of DNB data from April 2012 to September 2017. The radiances for individual pixels of most large light emitters are approximately normally distributed, with a standard deviation of typically 15-20% of the mean. We observe geospatial autocorrelation in the monthly variations for nearby sites, while the correlation for sites separated by large distances is small. This suggests that local factors contribute most to the variation in the pixel radiances, and furthermore that averaging radiances over large areas will reduce the total variation. A better understanding of the causes of temporal variation would improve the sensitivity of DNB to lighting changes.

The application of a commonly used computer algorithm based on the group-additivity method for the calculation of the liquid viscosity coefficient at 292.15K and the activity coefficient at infinite dilution in water at 298.15K of organic molecules is presented. The method is based on the complete breakdown of the molecules into their constituting atoms, further subdividing them by their immediate neighbourhood. A fast Gauss-Seidel fitting method using experimental data from literature is applied for the calculation of the atom groups’ contributions. Plausibility tests have been carried out on each of the calculations using a 10-fold cross-validation procedure which confirms the excellent predictive quality of the method. The goodness of fit (Q²) and the standard deviation (σ) of the cross-validation calculations for the viscosity coefficient, expressed as log(η), was 0.9728 and 0.11, respectively, for 413 test molecules, and for the activity coefficient log(γ)^∞ the corresponding values were 0.9736 and 0.31, respectively, for 621 test compounds. The present approach has proven its versatility in that it enabled at once the evaluation of the liquid viscosity of normal organic compounds as well as of ionic liquids.

Background: Amyloid beta peptides (Aβ) have been identified as the main pathogenic agents in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Soluble Aβ oligomers, rather than monomer or insoluble amyloid fibrils, show membrane-binding capacity to red blood cells (RBCs) and trigger several morphological and functional alterations in RBCs that can result in impaired oxygen transport and delivery. Since bioactive lipids have been recently proposed as potent protective agents against Aβ toxicity, we investigated the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in signaling pathways involved in the mechanism underlying ATP release in Aβ-treated RBCs. Methods: In RBCs following different treatments, ATP, 2,3 DPG, cAMP levels, and caspase 3 activity were determined by spectrophotometric and immunoassay. Results: S1P rescued the inhibition of ATP release from RBCs triggered by Aβ through a mechanism involving caspase-3 and restoring 2,3 DPG and cAMP levels within the cell. Conclusions: These findings reveal the molecular basis of S1P protection against Aβ in RBCs and suggest new therapeutic avenues in AD.

This work addresses the problem of automatic head pose estimation and its application in 3D gaze estimation using low quality RGB--D sensors without any subject cooperation or manual intervention. The previous works on 3D head pose estimation using RGB--D sensors require either an offline step for supervised learning or 3D head model construction which may require manual intervention or subject cooperation for complete head model reconstruction. In this paper, we propose a 3D pose estimator based on low quality depth data, which is not limited by any of the aforementioned steps. Instead, the proposed technique relies on modeling the subject's face in 3--D rather than the complete head, which in turn, relaxes all of the constraints with the previous works. The proposed method is robust, highly accurate and fully automatic. Moreover, it does not need any offline step. Unlike some of the previous works, the method only uses depth data for pose estimation. The experimental results on the Biwi head pose database confirm the efficiency of our algorithm in handling large pose variations and partial occlusion. We also evaluate the performance of our algorithm on IDIAP database for 3D head pose and eye gaze estimation.

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain is 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Phthalimide acts as a sodium channel antagonist, one of the finest targets for treating epilepsy is the sodium channel and JNK kinase activity is inhibited to treat epilepsy. a novel compound with multiple targets of action for the treatment of epilepsy also anti-oxidant activity has been designed. The compounds are designed in two series aldehydes and aniline. Docking of all the designed compounds has been done with the suitable protein GABA-AT, sodium channel, JNK protein, and anti-oxidant from protein bank. QSAR was done for constructing many linear regression models. In combination with the developed Docking and QSAR outcomes, ADMET has been performed for the active compounds. The result shows that 11 of the compounds have excellent binding energy in docking with all the receptors and also have good QSAR results and follow the ADMET. The structural understanding of human GABA-AT inhibition was obtained from molecular dynamics simulation studies for compound no. 11 at 5 nanoseconds. Synthesis and pharmacological activity also suggest that the designed compound no.11 be considered the best Novel Compound.

In this paper, a class of nonlinear ordinary differential equations with impulses at variable times is considered. The existence and uniqueness of solution are given. At the same time, modifying the classical definitions of continuous dependence and Ga^teaux differentiability, some results on continuous dependence and Ga^teaux differentiable of solution relative to the initial value also are presented in new topology sense. For the autonomous impulsive system, the periodicity of solution is given. As an application, properties of solution for a type of controlled nonlinear ordinary differential equation with impulses at variable times is obtained. These results are foundation to study optimal control problems of systems governed by the differential equations with impulses at variable times.

Mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) are a group of illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. These diseases represent a significant global burden of infectious diseases, including morbidity and mortality. This systematic review delves into the multifaceted factors contributing to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases (MBDs) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Following PRISMA guidelines, a thorough analysis of peer-reviewed articles from May 1990 to Jan 2023 was conducted, highlighting the interplay of population, environmental, disease, and mosquito factors in disease transmission and prevalence. The review incorporated 31 studies that revealed a complex relationship between various risk factors and the presence of MBDs. Significant associations were observed with age, certain occupations, environmental conditions such as rainfall and temperature, sanitation practices, specific pathogen variants, clinical symptoms, and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Conversely, gender, socioeconomic status, educational status, and certain sanitation-related factors showed inconsistent association with the spread of MBDs. The review underscores the need for targeted interventions, including vector control, improved sanitation, and educational campaigns to mitigate the spread of MBDs in the MENA region. This review could guide research studies to address data gaps and assist in developing effective surveillance programs in the MENA region. This work emphasizes the need for region-specific public health strategies and further research to understand and curb the burden of these diseases effectively.

Research has shown that hands-on projects promote stem education, namely, via problem-solving. CanSat, literally 'satellite in a can', is a stem educational project promoted by the European Space Agency. This paper addresses this issue by researching this STEM project, which demonstrates how problem-solving can be achieved in secondary-level students within the framework of the CanSat. We use qualitative techniques of data collection and analysis. The results showed that students use sophisticated thinking strategies to process information within this interdisciplinary project: (a) cognitive testing, cognitive organization, cognitive regulation, and monitoring, in addition to computer language and physical–mathematical calculations, are cognitive and metacognitive behavior strategies revealed in the CanSat; (b) problem-solving was suggested as a specific model, where students’ higher cognitive and metacognitive ordering processes deepen in project development; (c) computational, lateral, or divergent and convergent thinking were detected as thinking types of students associated with and mobilized in the course of problem-solving, The findings of this research have practical implications for STEM education in space science. Hands-on projects using problem-solving are an essential strategy to promote STEM education. Additionally, they are a starting point to promote meaningful learning and new thinking types.

This paper investigates the dynamic tail dependence risk between BRICS economies and world energy market in the context of the COVID-19 financial crisis of 2020, to determine optimal investment decisions based on risk metrics. For this purpose, the study employs a combination of novel statistical techniques ranging from Markov Switching, GARCH and Vine copula. Using a dataset consisting of daily stock and world crude oil prices; we find high probability of transition between lower and higher volatility regimes. Furthermore, our results based on the C-Vine copula confirm the existence of two types of tail dependence: - symmetric tail dependence between South Africa and China; South Africa and Russia; and lower tail dependence between South Africa and India; South Africa and Brazil; South Africa and Oil. For the purpose of diversification in these markets, we formulate an asset allocation problem using C-vine copula-based returns and optimize it using Particle Swarm algorithm with a rebalancing strategy. The results show an inverse relationship between the risk contribution and asset allocation of South Africa and oil market supporting the existence of lower tail dependence between them. This suggests that when South African stocks are in distress, investors tend to shift their holdings in oil market. Similar results are found between China and oil. In the upper tail, South African asset allocation is found to have an inverse relationship with that of Brazil, Russia and India suggesting that these three markets might be good investment destinations when things are not good in South Africa and vice-versa.

To systematically investigate the epidemiology of breast cancer risk factors in Iran, we performed a systematic search via PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Persian databases for identifying studies published on breast cancer risk factors up to March 2019. Meta-analyses were done for risk factors reported in more than one study. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a fixed/random-effects models.Thirty-nine studies entered into the meta-analysis. Pooling of ORs showed a significant harmful effect for risk factors including family history (OR: 1.80, 95%CI 1.47-2.12), HRT (OR: 5.48, 95%CI 0.84-1.74), ER positive (OR: 1.87, 95%CI 1.41-2.33), PR positive (OR: 1.84, 95%CI 1.38-2.29), stress condition (OR: 2.67, 95%CI 1.84-3.50), passive smokers (OR: 1.68, 95%CI 1.34-2.03), full-term pregnancy at age 30 (OR: 3.41, 95%CI 1.19-5.63), abortion (OR: 1.84, 95%CI 1.35-2.33), sweets consumption (OR: 1.71, 95%CI 1.32-2.11) and genotype Arg/Arg (crude OR: 1.59, 95%CI 1.07-2.10), whereas a significant protective effect for late menarche (OR: 0.58, 95%CI 0.32-0.83), nulliparity (OR: 0.68, 95%CI 0.39-0.96), 13 to 24 months of breastfeeding (OR: 0.68, 95%CI 0.46-0.90), daily exercise (OR: 0.59, 95%CI 0.44-0.73) and vegetable consumption (crude OR: 0.28, 95%CI 0.10-0.46).This study suggest that factors such as family history, HRT, ER and PR positive status, stress condition, passive smokers, late full-term pregnancy, abortion, sweets consumption and genotype Arg/Arg might increase risk of breast cancer development, whereas late menarche, nulliparity, 13-24 months breastfeeding, daily exercise and vegetable consumption had an inverse association with breast cancer development.

Plants are an important feature of urban ecosystems which provide numerous environmental and ecosystem benefits such as defenses against noise and air pollution and conservation of biodiversity. The aim of this study was to investigate the structure and composition of urban vegetation in different urban habitats like roadsides, parks, gardens and playgrounds in Dhaka South City area. Stratified random sampling method was used in this study. A total of 221 plant species belonging to 63 families were identified and recorded. Among all plant species Swietenia macrophylla, Polyalthia longifolia, Cocos nucifera, Samanea saman, and Artocarpus heterophyllus are recorded as the most dominant. Most of the tree and shrub population were found between 6-9 m and 1-3m height classes whereas most of tree and shrub population were found in between 10-15cm dbh classes. Highest IVI was found for Swietenia macrophylla (193.22%) followed by Polyalthia longifolia (184.59%), Samanea saman (138.37%), Cocos nucifera (79.9%) and Delonix regia (68.27%) respectively. Average frequency, density, dbh and basal area were found 46.82%, 138.28 tree ha^-1, 458.59 cm ha^-1 and 12.33 m² ha^-1 respectively. Findings of this study reveals that structural attributes of plant represent quite young and still developing vegetation. This research will help to plan for future green infrastructure which will maintain ecosystem function, therefore, providing longer term benefits for the city dwellers.

Vancomycin is one of the ‘last-line’ classes of antibiotics used in the treatment of life-threatening infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria. Even though vancomycin was discovered in 1950s it was widely used after 1980s for the treatment of infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococci as prevalence of such strains were increased. However, currently it is evident that vancomycin resistant Staphylococcusaureusandvancomycin-resistant Enterococci have been developed as a result of various reasons including use of avaparcin, which is an analog of vancomycin, as feed additive in livestock. In present day context, more attention should be paid on prevention of emergence of resistance for the antibiotics in order to keep antibiotics effective. In order to prevent emergence of resistance, proper guidance for the responsible use of antimicrobials is indispensable. Therefore, almost all stakeholders who use antibiotics should have in depth understanding on the antibiotic they use. As such, it is imperative to be aware of the important aspects of vancomycin. In the present review, efforts have been made to discussthe pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, indications, emergence of resistance, control of resistance, adverse effects and alternative therapy for vancomycin.

Build a special identical equation, use its calculation characters to prove and search for solution of any odd converging to 1 equation through (*3+1)/2^k operation, change the operation to (*3+2^m-1)/2^k, and get a solution for this equation, give a specific example to verify. Thus prove the Collatz Conjecture is true. Furthermore, analysis the sequences produced by iteration calculation during the procedure of searching for solution, build a weight function model, prove it decrease progressively to 0, build a complement weight function model, prove it increase to its convergence state. Build a (*3+2^m-1)/2^k odd tree, prove if odd in (*3+2^m-1)/2^k long huge odd sequence can not converge, the sequence must outstep the boundary of the tree after infinite steps of (*3+2^m-1)/2^k operation.

Ageing is associated with a decline in both Nrf2 activity and DNA repair efficiency, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage and an increased risk of cancer. Understanding the mechanisms behind the increased level of damaged DNA during ageing is crucial for developing interventions to mitigate age-related cancer risk and improve overall health in older individuals. (Poly)phenols are plant-derived bioactive compounds that undergo metabolism into simpler phenolic catabolites following ingestion. While these compounds have been associated with various health benefits, further analysis of their bioavailable catabolites is necessary. To this end, four phenolic catabolites derived from colonic microbiota were investigated for their ability to reduce DNA damage in response to oxidative challenge and modulate the Nrf2-Antixoidant Response Element pathway. Normal and adenocarcinoma colonocyte cell lines (CCD 841 CoN, & HT29 respectively) were exposed to sub cytotoxic concentrations (>10 µM,) of hydroxylated (4-hydroxybenzoic acid, 3-(3’-hydroxyphenyl) propionic acid) and non-hydroxylated (benzoic acid or 3-phenylpropionic acid) phenolic acids. Using the COMET assay, each catabolite demonstrated significant (p<0.001) geno-protective activity, albeit with varying potency. They also significantly modulated expression of key genes in the Nrf2-ARE pathway, including Nrf2, Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 (NQO1). Hydroxylation of the phenolic acids appeared to have a limited effect with respect to bioactivity. Overall, the colon derived phenolic metabolites, when assessed at physiologically relevant concentrations, reduced DNA damage in both normal and adenocarcinoma colonic cells in response to oxidative challenge, mediated – at least in part via upregulation of the Nrf2-ARE pathway.

Background: Approximately 75% of all head and neck cancer patients are treated with radiotherapy (RT). RT to the oral cavity results in acute and late adverse events which can be severe and detrimental to a patient’s quality of life and function. The purpose of this study was to explore associations between RT dose to a defined oral cavity organ at risk (OAR) avoidance structure, provider and patient reported outcomes (PROs), opioid use, and hospitalization. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively obtained outcomes using multivariable modeling. The study included 196 patients treated with RT involving the oral cavity for a head and neck tumor. A defined oral cavity OAR avoidance structure was used in all patients for RT treatment planning. Validated PROs were collected prospectively. Opioid use and hospitalization were abstracted electronically from medical records. Results: Multivariable modeling revealed the mean dose to the oral cavity OAR was significantly associated with opioid use (p=0.0082) and hospitalization (p=0.0356) during and within 30 days of completing RT. Conclusion: The findings of this study may be valuable in RT treatment planning for patients with tumors of the head and neck region to reduce the need for opioid use and hospitalization during treatment.

The Genji firefly is a key symbol of the conservation and management of rural environments. The species lives underwater as larvae, in the soil when they pupate, and emerges on the ground as adults. Because of the large differences in habitat conditions between larvae and adults, the habitat requirements of the Genji firefly must be clarified over a wide range, from the instream to the surrounding riparian environment. In this study, we built a habitat suitability model for the Genji firefly by relating local landscape features to the number of individuals surveyed in a small river in an agricultural watershed. For habitat suitability modelling, tree-based machine learning methods, namely Random Forests (RF) and classification and regression trees (CART), are used to model species distributions and extract quantitative information on their ecological characteristics. Because the model performance on the test dataset was poor, we removed noisy absences using model outputs from the RF computation using the entire dataset. As a result, we observed improved model performance, in which there seems to be an optimal level for removing noisy absences. Variable importance and partial dependence plots were then used to visualize the relationship between the local landscape features and habitat suitability of the adult firefly. Detailed information on landscape features extracted using RF and CART is useful for a deeper understanding of the ecology of the Genji fireflies.

This study investigates why young adults live with their parents in Sweden. As young adults’ living arrangements affect decisions about marriage, education, childbirth, and participation in the workforce, more knowledge for policy makers is crucial to implementing effective policies to support young adults and promote financial independence and well-being. Using a data set from 1998 to 2021 at the municipal level in Sweden, we used a spatial autoregressive panel data model to examine the proportion of young adults living at home and regional disparities. The study uncovers intraregional variations, illustrating how different municipalities within Sweden exhibit different patterns of young adults living at home. Our findings reveal that economic factors, such as unemployment, significantly impact this pattern. The dynamics of the housing market, demographic factors, cultural differences, and location-specific characteristics also play an essential role in explaining this pattern. The findings suggest that the key drivers are the lack of rental housing, high unemployment rates, a high degree of urbanisation, interregional migration, and lack of social capital.

Abstract: Background: The Hospital-at-home (HAH) model is a viable alternative for conven-tional in-hospital stays worldwide. Serum electrolyte abnormalities are common in acute pa-tients, especially in those with many comorbidities. Pathologic changes in cardiac electrophysi-ology pose a potential risk during HAH stay. Periodical Electrocardiogram (ECG) tracing is therefore advised, but few studies evaluated the accuracy and efficiency of compact, self-activated ECG devices in the HAH settings. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of such a device in comparison to a standard 12-lead ECG. Methods: We prospectively recruited consecu-tive patients admitted to the Sheba Beyond, virtual hospital, in the HAH department, during a 3-month duration. Each patient underwent a 12-lead ECG recording using the legacy device, and a consecutive recording by a compact 6-lead device. Baseline patients’ characteristics during hospi-talization were collected. Level of agreement between devices was measured by Cohen’s Kappa coefficient for inter-rater reliability (Ϗ). Results: Fifty patients were included in the study. 26 (52%) had electrolyte disturbances. Abnormal D-dimer values were observed in 33 (66%) pa-tients, and 12 (24%) patients had elevated troponin values. We found a level of 94.5% raw agreement between devices with regards to nine of the options included in the automatic read-out of the legacy device. The calculated Ϗ was 0.72, classified as substantial consensus. The rate of raw consensus regarding ECG intervals’ measurement (PR, RR, QT) was 78.5% and the calculated Ϗ was 0.42, corresponding to a moderate level of agreement. Conclusion: This is the first report to our knowledge regarding the feasibility of using a compact, 6-Lead ECG device in the setting of HAH to be safe and bearing satisfying agreement level with a legacy, 12-lead ECG device, en-abling quick, accessible arrythmia detection in this setting. Our findings bear a promise to the future development of telemedicine-based hospital at home methodology.

Respiratory therapist(RT)internet-supervised At-Home Telespirometry(AHT)was validated in pilot 22/95=23% ALS Clinic population. Erect, supine Vital Capacity(eFVC, sFVC)were measured longitudinally using ZephyRx smartphone interface and database recording in-clinic-conventional(Viaire-Vyasis-)and at-home-portable(MIR-Spirobank-Smart-)spirometers. Bland-Altman(BA)analysis supported content validity-precision and 7-day-test-re-test-validity [mean difference=0.15L(conventional–portable;95%CI -0.40L, 0.70L); = 2.7% predicted (conventional-portable;95%CI -12.1%, 17.5%) ]meeting ATS-ERS performance standards. RT Internet-supervised AHT measured sFVC was more frequently obtained[35/52=67.3 %]in-home-vs-in-clinic sFVC[9/21=42.9 %](Chi-Square;P=0.0533). Monthly mean eFVC slope decline for the eFVC > 60 % predicted baseline cohort was – 1.24% predicted per month[95% CI -2.15 ,-0.33% predicted]statistically significantly(P=0.015)less compared with the – 5.86% predicted per month[95% CI -9.44, -2.29 % predicted]decline for the eFVC < 60 % predicted baseline cohort and in this cohort was associated with statistically significant decreased survival(P=0.0219). RT Internet-supervised AHT facilitated initiation of non-invasive ventilation(NIV)in 5/22[23%]patients including 3/4[75%] homebound subjects. RT Internet-supervised AHT can be deployed for ALS patients stratified according to baseline eFVC for earlier detection of eFVC and sFVC decreases between clinic visits. A prospective research study[NCT05106569]is ongoing to further define the capability of online deployment of Respiratory therapist(RT)internet-supervised AHT in the timely initiation of NIV use to improve ALS respiratory care in larger numbers of ALS subjects.

Multi-level direct networks fueled by the evolving technology of active optical cables and increasing pin-bandwidth achieve reduced diameters and cost, with high-radix switches. These networks, like Dragonfly, are becoming the preferred aspirants for extreme high-performance parallel machines such as exa-scale computing. In this paper, we introduce a Hyper Z-Tree topology, which deploys the Z-Tree, a variant of fat-tree, as a computing node of a Generalized Hypercube (GHC) configuration. The resulting configuration provides higher bisection bandwidth, lower latency for some applications and higher throughput. Furthermore, the levels of the fat tree offer several path diversities across the GHC dimensions, hence conceding a more fault tolerant architecture. To profit from these path diversities, we propose two adaptive routing algorithms, which are extensions to the routing algorithm suggested in HyperX topology. These two algorithms exhibit better latencies and throughput than the HyperX.

Since 2017 Cartagena UNESCO World Heritage has threatened to be categorized as "in Danger" by UNESCO. This research analyzes two main critical aspects, Governance and Current state of the Site. Regarding Governance, the study aims to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and treats in the UNESCO Site. Exemplary heritage management systems are studied to propose an adaptable management approach specifically for Cartagena. On the other hand, a comprehensive analysis is conducted utilizing a photographic report that highlights the major issues arising from inadequate heritage management. Hyperspectral images obtained from a previous study are employed to identify vegetation and asbestos-cement roofs within the cultural heritage Site. The study reveals that the ambiguity surrounding decision-making authority for heritage management, distributed between the Mayor's Office and the Ministry of Culture, is a primary challenge. This fragmentation has resulted in duplicated efforts and a lack of coordinated action, significantly compromising the conservation and protection of the cultural heritage Site. Moreover, twelve current shortcomings of cultural heritage in Cartagena are identified through authors' five-year on-site regular visits, photographic reports and observation. To address the prevailing concerns, a new line of command for cultural heritage management is proposed as the most effective means of tackling these challenges. Additionally, general recommendations are presented to mitigate the existing problems and prevent the classification of Cartagena's heritage as "at risk" by UNESCO in the near future. This research provides a scientific perspective, drawing upon years of experience studying heritage and residing in the city, devoid of political influences or conflicts of interest.

We analyze the upside and downside risk connectedness among international stock markets. We characterize the connectedness among international stock returns using the Diebold and Yilmaz spillover index approach and compute the upside and downside value-at-risk. We document that the connectedness level of the downside risk is higher than that of the upside risk and that stock markets are more sensitive when the stock market declines. We also find that specific periods (e.g., the global financial crisis, the European debt crisis, and the COVID-19 turmoil) intensify the spillover effects across international stock markets. Our results demonstrate that the EU, Ger-many, and the US acted as net transmitters of dynamic connectedness; however, Japan (JP), China (CH), and India (IN) acted as net receivers of dynamic connectedness during the sample period. These findings provide significant new information to policymakers and market participants.

A brief (subjective) description of the state of the art of the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics (MWI) is presented. It is argued that the MWI is the only interpretation which removes action at a distance and randomness from quantum theory. Limitations of the MWI regarding questions of probability which can be legitimately asked are specified. The ontological picture of the MWI as a theory of the universal wave function decomposed in a superposition of world wave functions, the important part of which are defined in three-dimensional space, is viewed from the point of view of our particular branch. Some speculations about misconceptions which apparently prevent the MWI to be in the consensus are mentioned.

In this study, we discuss the properties of absolute vacuum space and how these properties can play a vital role in creating a mechanism in which the very first particle gets created simultaneously everywhere and we find the limit in which when the absolute vacuum volume reaches will lead to the collapse that leads to the creation of the first particle. This discussion is made following to the elementary dimensions theory study that was peer-reviewed at the end of 2020, everything in the universe is made from four elementary dimensions, these dimensions are the three spatial dimensions (X, Y, and Z) and the Vacuum resistant as the factor of change among the four, time itself wasn’t considered as the fourth dimension, rather time corresponds to a factor of change, and during the research it was found out that the Vacuum resistant is the factor of change in the Absolute Vacuum space, where time is a hypothetical concept, that represents changes during certain events compared to a constant change rate event.Therefore, time does exist, but as a factor of change, and as the Vacuum resistant in the absolute vacuum space, Time= factor of change= Vacuum resistant. In the study, the internal and external vacuum resistant volume equivalent is found, External Vacuum resistant=3.2857602*10^15 *mass. This equation is used to identify the amount of Free external vacuum resistant created during nuclear fission and fusion: Initial mass of the excited nucleuses mass of the created new nucleuses+ 3.2857602*10^15 * the lost Mass. In elementary dimensions, the energy created during nuclear reactions is equivalent to the free External vacuum resistant created through nuclear reactions, and mass is equivalent to the internal Vacuum resistant.

A close analysis of the text of Gen. 2:8-15, pertaining to the garden of Eden, shows the structural differences between said text and others from ancient mythologies that mention or describe a paradise. Likewise, that analysis suggests that the data provided by the Bible to locate paradise is merely a narrative device meant to dissipate all doubts as to the existence of the garden where God put human beings. Similarly to other spaces that appear in the Bible, the garden of Eden is but an impossible place. Throughout the centuries, however, recurring proposals have been made that aim to find paradise. As time went by, those proposals were progressively modified by the intellectual ideas dominant at any given era, thus leading the representations of the location of Paradise further and further away from the information provided by the biblical text.

The evaluation was conducted to find out whether the stipulated objectives of the policy are being followed, and at the same time find out whether the envisioned results of implementing such policy system have been achieved so far. The evaluation was expected to provide an opportunity for mending shortfalls of the whole system that would affect its sustainability and usefulness.A total of 33 participants were interviewed in this study and came from the study area (Nkhotakota District Council Office). Purposive sampling was used to select the participants. All study respondents were purposively selected where respondents considered having relevant information and they were interviewed to obtain wide range of perspectives.Seven themes were identified; knowledge on policy, limited stakeholder involvement, poor HIV and AIDS programming, ethical issues, future perspective of the policy, Other Recurrent Transaction (ORT) allocation, and availability of HIV and AIDS Committee. On knowledge on policy, the sub-themes included; objectives well outlined, and poor updates on the policy. On limited stakeholder involvement, the sub-themes were; lack of ownership, ignorance of involvement, and not involved/limited involvement. On the Poor HIV and AIDS programming theme, sub-themes identified were; exclusion of activities in the District Implementation Plan (DIP) and lack of funds. There was one sub-theme on ethical issues and future perspective.We found that the Nkhotakota District Council HIV and AIDS at workplace policy is not functioning properly due to poor coordination and lack of funding. However, there are some positives identified such as existence of the coordinating committee and allocation of funds through ORT. Although the system has been functional for some years in well-established structures, lack of participation by some stakeholders, non-inclusion of HIV and AIDS activities in the DIPs underpin its sustainability

Objectives: COVID-19, a respiratory disease caused by SARS-COV2 and transmitted from person-to-person through viral droplets remains a global pandemic. There is a need to understand the transmission modes, populations at risk, and how to mitigate the spread and case fatality in the United States (US) and globally. The current study aimed to assess the global COVID-19 transmission and case fatality, examine similar parameters by countries and determine evidence-based practice in extreme epidemiology response in epidemic curve flattening and case fatality reduction. Methods: A cross-sectional ecologic design was used to assess the preexisting data on confirmed COVID-19 cases and mortality in March 2020 from the CDC, WHO, Worldodomter, and STATISTA. A rapid assessment between March 23^rd and 31^st, 2020, was utilized for the extreme epidemiology response. The case fatality, termed fatality proportion, was examined using mortality in relation to confirmed cases involving the world, United States of America (USA), United Kingdom (UK), Italy, France, Spain, China, Germany, India and South Korea. Results: The COVID-19 is a global pandemic, with the US as the epicenter for transmission, representing 20.9% of all confirmed cases worldwide, while Italy is the epicenter for case fatality, 30.6% of mortality as at 03/31/ 2020. The fatality proportion (FP) in Italy was 11.4%, Spain (8.8%), France (6.8%) and UK (6.4%). Despite the increased number of confirmed cases, the lowest FP was observed in Germany (0.96%) and South Korea (1.66%). There is increasing linear tends in transmission in the US, R²=0.97 as well as positive daily percentage change, ranging from 1.27% to 20.5%. Conclusions: The USA remains the epicenter for COVID-19 transmission, while Italy is the epicenter for case fatality. The observed relatively low case fatality in Germany and South Korea is due to an “extreme epidemiology” response through the application of Wuhan, China’s early data on COVID-19 transmission control measures and optimized patient care. These data are suggestive of relaxing the clinical guidelines in the United States in COVID-19 testing, application of contact tracing and testing, case isolation and most importantly enhancing resources for case management and social and physical distancing globally, hence epidemic curve flattening and case fatality reduction.

This study employed a deductive research approach and a survey strategy to assess risk perception and its influencing factors among construction workers in Malawi. Three specific construction hazards and their associated risks were selected. The hazards were ‘working at height (WAH) ‘manual handling of loads (MHL)’ and ‘heavy workload or intense pressure to be more productive (HWP)’. The study engaged multistage sampling of 376 subjects. Univariate analysis, factor analysis and multiple linear regressions were performed in order to determine the main influencing factors among the independent variables. The study established that workers were aware of risks posed by their work. They perceived the risk associated with WAH, MHL and HWP as very high (62.7%, = 8.80 ± 1.95); (48.5%, = 8.10 ± 2.38); (57.9%, = 8.49 ± 2.22) respectively. The study identified six factors as variables that showed significant effect on workers’ perception of risk (p < 0.05). These factors were “dreaded factor”, “avoidability and controllability”, “expert knowledge”, “personal knowledge”, education level and age. It is concluded that contractors in the Malawian construction industry should integrate analysis of behaviors and risk perception of the workers and other players to guide the identification of better health and safety interventions at their worksites.

Purpose: Expanded carrier screening (ECS) informs couples of their risk of having offspring affected by certain genetic conditions. Limited data exists assessing the actions and reproductive outcomes of at-risk couples (ARCs). We describe the impact of ECS on planned and actual pregnancy management in the largest sample of ARCs studied to date. Methods: Couples who elected ECS and were found to be at high risk of having a pregnancy affected by at least one of 176 genetic conditions were invited to complete a survey about their actions and pregnancy management. Results: Three hundred ninety-one ARCs completed the survey. Among those screened before becoming pregnant, 77% planned or pursued actions to avoid having affected offspring. Among those screened during pregnancy, 37% elected prenatal diagnostic testing (PNDx) for that pregnancy. In subsequent pregnancies that occurred in both the preconception and prenatal screening groups, PNDx was pursued in 29%. The decision to decline PNDx was most frequently based on the fear of procedure-related miscarriage, as well as the belief that termination would not be pursued in the event of a positive diagnosis. Conclusions: ECS results impacted couples’ reproductive decision-making and led to altered pregnancy management that effectively eliminates the risk of having affected offspring.

We prove: (1) the set of all Diophantine equations which have at most finitely many solutions in non-negative integers is not recursively enumerable, (2) the set of all Diophantine equations which have at most finitely many solutions in positive integers is not recursively enumerable, (3) the set of all Diophantine equations which have at most finitely many integer solutions is not recursively enumerable, (4) analogous theorems hold for Diophantine equations D(x₁, …, x_p) = 0, where p ∈ N\{0} and for every i ∈ {1, …, p} the polynomial D(x₁, …, x_p) involves a monomial M with a non-zero coefficient such that x_i divides M, (5) the set of all Diophantine equations which have at most k variables (where k ≥ 9) and at most finitely many solutions in non-negative integers is not recursively enumerable.

We have recently presented a unified quantum gravity theory [1]. Here we extend on that work and present an even simpler version of that theory. For about hundred years, modern physics has not been able to build a bridge between quantum mechanics and gravity. However, a solution may be found here; we present our quantum gravity theory, which is rooted in indivisible particles where matter and gravity are related to collisions and can be described by collision space-time. In this paper, we also show that we can formulate a quantum wave equation rooted in collision space-time, which is equivalent to mass and energy.The beauty of our theory is that most of the main equations that currently exist in physics are not changed (in terms of predictions), except at the Planck scale. The Planck scale is directly linked to gravity and gravity is, surprisingly, actually a Lorentz symmetry as well as a form of Heisenberg uncertainty break down at the Planck scale. Our theory gives a dramatic simplification of many physics formulas without altering the output predictions. The relativistic wave equation, the relativistic energy momentum relation, and Minkowski space can all be represented by simpler equations when we understand mass at a deeper level. This not attained at a cost, but rather a reflection of the benefit in having gravity and electromagnetism unified under the same theory.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 is a neurodegenerative disease caused by an abnormal expansion of CAG repeats in the disease gene ATXN3, leading to prolonged polyglutamine (polyQ) tracts in the respective protein ataxin-3. The polyQ-expanded protein forms polyQ-containing aggregates in several brain regions which leads to neuronal cell loss. Autophagy is thought to play a significant role in clearing these polyQ-containing protein aggregates. Therefore, the autophagy mechanism was investigated in SCA3 with focus on the autophagic protein p62/sequestosome-1. Human and mouse RNA sequencing data were analyzed to determine RNA expression level of autophagic genes. Additionally, autophagy was studied in the SCA3 304Q knock-in mouse model and through several cell culture experiments using HEK-293T cells transfected with ATXN3 of differ-ent polyQ lengths. For cell culture experiments, autophagy was induced with rapamycin treat-ment, proteasomal degradation was blocked with MG132 and degradation of autophagic pro-teins was investigated using cycloheximide treatment. Here, we report an increased autophagy impairment with SCA3 disease progression seen in HEK-293T cells transfected with ATXN3 plasmid with expanded polyQ tracts, higher aged 304Q-knock-in mice, or human post-mortem brain material. Furthermore, co-localized aggregation of the autophagic protein p62 and the dis-ease protein ATXN3 was observed in the course of SCA3 disease. Therefore, we suggest a signifi-cant role for p62 in aggregate formation seen in the neurodegenerative disease SCA3.

To understand the biological relevance and mode of action of artificial protein ligands, crystal structures with their protein targets are essential. Here, we describe and investigate all known crystal structures that contain a so-called “molecular tweezer” or one of its derivatives with an attached natural ligand on the respective target protein. The aromatic ring system of these compounds is able to include lysine and arginine side chains, supported by one or two phosphate groups that are attached to the half-moon shaped molecule. We analyse the corresponding crystal structures with 14-3-3 proteins in complex with mono- and diphosphate tweezers. Furthermore, we solved crystal structures of two different tweezer variants in complex with the enzyme 1-Pyrroline-5-carboxyl-dehydrogenase (P5CDH), and found that the tweezers are bound to a lysine and methionine side chain, respectively. The different binding modes and their implications for affinity and specificity are discussed, as well as the general problems in crystallizing protein complexes with artificial ligands.

For Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), the normal baseline is one of the main factors that affect the accuracy of the ground elevation. For Gaofen-3 (GF-3) InSAR processing, the poor accuracy of the real-time orbit determination resulting in a large baseline error, leads to the modulation error in azimuth and the slope error in range for timely Digital Elevation Model (DEM) generation. In order to address this problem, a baseline estimation method based on external DEM is proposed in this paper. Firstly, according to the characteristic of the real-time orbit of GF-3 images, orbit fitting is executed to remove the non-linear error factor. Secondly, the height errors are obtained in slant-range plane between Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) DEM and the GF-3 generated DEM after orbit fitting. At the same time, the height errors are used to estimate the baseline error which has a linear variation. In this way, the orbit error can be calibrated by the estimated baseline error. Finally, DEM generation is performed by using the modified baseline and orbit. This procedure is implemented iteratively to achieve a higher accuracy DEM. Based on the results of GF-3 interferometric SAR data for Hebei, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified and the accuracy of GF-3 real-time DEM products can be improved extensively.

The interaction of matter when separated by a distance is a fundamental question, whether such interactions occur through instantaneous action at a distance or retarded action at a distance (principle of locality)? While the mainstream consensus favors the principle of locality, instantaneous action at a distance offers certain advantages. Previously, instantaneous action at a distance has been viewed as an appearance or representation from specific gauge choices of electromagnetic potentials (retarded). In this paper, we propose a novel approach that combines Weber’s electrodynamics with the concept of vacuum polarization to explore a new possible connection between the two viewpoints: instantaneous action at a distance and the locality principle. This new approach aligns with the observation of locality in signal/energy propagation while retaining the notion of instantaneous action at a distance.

Mediterranean Sea are dynamic habitats in which human activities have been conducted for centuries and which feature micro-tidal environments with about 0.40 m of range. For this reason, human settlements are still concentrated along a narrow coastline strip, where any change in the sea level and coastal dynamics may impact anthropic activities. We analyzed light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and Copernicus Earth Observation data. Aim of this research is to provide estimates and detailed maps (in three coastal plain of Sardinia (Italy) and in the Pontina Plain (southern Latium, Italy) of: i) the past marine trasgression occurred during MIS 5.5 higstand 119 kyrss BP; ii) the coastline regression occurred during the last glacial maximum MIS 2 (21.5 krs cal BP) and iii) the potential marine submersion for 2100 and 2300. The objective of this multidisciplinary study is to provide maps of sea-level rise future scenarios using the IPCC RCP 8.5 2019 [1]projections and glacio-hydro-isostatic movements for the above selected coastal zones, which are the locations of touristic resorts, railways, and heritage sites. We estimated a potential loss of land for the above areas of between about 146 km² (IPCC 2019-RCP8.5 scenario [1]) and 637 km² along a coastline length of about 268 km.

Breast cancer develops upon sequential acquisition of driver mutations in mammary epithelial cells; however how these mutations collaborate to transform normal cells remains unclear in most cases. We aimed to reconstitute this process in a particular case. To this end, we combined the activated form of the PI 3-kinase harboring the H1047R mutation with the inactivation of the histone lysine methyl-transferase KMT2D in the non-tumorigenic human mammary epithelial cell line MCF10A. We found that PI 3-kinase activation promoted cell cycle progression, especially when growth signals were limiting, as well as cell migration, both in a collective monolayer and as single cells. Furthermore, we showed that KMT2D inactivation had relatively little influence on these processes, except for single cell migration that KMT2D inactivation promoted in synergy with PI 3-kinase activation. Combination of these two genetic alterations induced expression of the ARPC5L gene that encodes a subunit of the Arp2/3 complex. ARPC5L depletion fully abolished the enhanced migration persistence exhibited by double-mutant cells. Our reconstitution approach in MCF10A has thus revealed both the cell function, single cell migration, and the underlying Arp2/3-dependent mechanism, which are synergistically regulated when KMT2D inactivation is combined with the activation of the PI 3-kinase.

Among cross-sectional imaging modalities, computed tomography (CT) is more available and faster; however, magnetic resonance (MR) performs better in terms of sensitivity and specificity, due to its higher contrast resolution. The appearance of peritoneal deposits on CT and MR depends mainly on the primary tumour histology: in case of unknown primary tumour (3-5% of cases), their behaviour at imaging may provide insights on the tumour origin. The time-point of tumour evolution, previous or ongoing treatments and the peritoneal spaces where they occur, also play an important role in determining the appearance of peritoneal deposits. Thus, knowledge of peritoneal anatomy and fluid circulation is mandatory in detection and characterization of peritoneal deposits. Several benign and malignant conditions may show similar imaging features that overlap those of PC, making the differential diagnosis challenging. Clinical history, laboratory findings and previous imaging examinations must be considered to achieve the correct diagnosis.

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are a kind of nano-inclusions that have experienced tremendous expansion in the material industry due to their outstanding mechanical qualities, sizable surface area, and capacity for functional tuning. Due to their vast potential, however, present practises fall short of fully using them. For example, employing CNCs in various matrices with various surface chemistries can be challenging; this problem tends to get worse if the focus is furthered on bio-based applications. This paper reviews the use of CNCs as fillers in natural and man-made polymers; we have explored in depth the production, characterisation, and of CNCs from various sources and their inclusion into various matrices. Surface alterations and the introduction of CNCs in biodegradable polymer can have a significant impact on several industrial behemoths such as tissue engineering and biomedical applications; therefore, pursue of current manuscript is extremely warranted. Throughout the manuscript various assembly techniques that involves alteration and adjustment of polymer network in building up a hydrogel with higher fracture energy and mechanical properties are also included. From rheological perspective the hydrogel processing is also discussed with some models routinely used in the literature to describe these hydrogels. Finally, bio-based hydrogels mechanically reinforced with CNCs such as Xanthan Gum, Alginate, protein, and polysaccharides were discussed.

Background: Monoclonal antibodies against PD-1 or PD-L1 are established in clinical practice for the treatment of both early and advanced/metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. Beyond the established immune checkpoints (ICPs) (PD-1 and CTLA-4) additional ICPs such as lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3) are subject of current research. In the present retrospective gene ex-pression analysis, we evaluated the prognostic significance of LAG-3 in 461 patients with early breast cancer. In addition, we examined whether there was a correlation between the different ICPs and CD8 expression. Methods: Using microarray-based gene expression analysis, we examined the prognostic signif-icance for metastasis-free survival (MFS) of LAG-3 mRNA expression in the whole cohort of 461 breast cancer patients and among different molecular subtypes. Correlations were analyzed us-ing Spearman-Rho correlation coefficient. Results: In the whole cohort, LAG-3 expression had no significant impact on MFS (p = 0.712, Log Rank). In the subgroup analyses, there was a trend, that higher LAG-3 expression was associated with favorable outcome in the luminal B (p = 0.217), basal-like (p = 0.370) and HER2 (p = 0.089) subtypes, although significance was not reached. In contrast, in multivariate Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, tumor size, axillary nodal status, histological grade of differentiation and the proliferation marker Ki-67, LAG-3 showed a significant influence on MFS (HR 0.574; 95% CI 0.369–0.894; p = 0.014). High LAG-3 significantly correlated with CD8 ( = 0.571; p < 0.001). Conclusion: LAG-3 expression had an independent impact on MFS. In addition to PD-1 and PD-L1, further immune checkpoints such as LAG-3 could serve as therapeutic targets in breast cancer.

Salivarian trypanosomes are extracellular parasites causing anthroponotic and zoonotic infections. Anti-parasite vaccination in considered the only sustainable method for global trypanosomosis control. Unfortunately, not a single field applicable vaccine solution has been successful so far. Active destruction of the host’s adaptive immune system by trypanosomes is believed to contribute to this problem. Here we show Trypanosome brucei brucei infection results in the lasting obliteration of immunological memory, including vaccine-induced memory against non-related pathogens. Using the well-established DTPa vaccine model in combination with a T. b. brucei infection and diminazene diaceturate anti-parasite treatment scheme, our result demonstrate that while the latter ensured the full recovery from the T. b. brucei infection, it failed to restore an efficacious anti-pertussis vaccine recall response. DTPa vaccine failure coincided with a shift in the IgG1/IgG2a anti-pertussis antibody ratio in favor of the latter, and a striking impact on all spleen immune cell populations. Interestingly, an increased plasma IFNy level in DTPa vaccinated trypanosome infected mice did result in a temporary antibody-independent improvement of early-stage trypanosomosis control. In conclusion, our results are the first to show that trypanosome inflicted immune damage is permanent, and is not restored by successful anti-parasite treatment.

NS-3 is one of the most used Network Simulators because it includes different modules, applications and protocols to simulate a wide range of network. Since new proposals usually involve a large number of simulations, a procedure to automatize the simulation process and extract statistics is very useful. "Statistical Framework" (SF) is an important module of NS-3 because it fulfills this need. SF allows us to collect simulation data and obtain statistical reports for NS-3. In this report, we present a detailed description of statistical framework module and two useful examples of its configuration.

Network Simulators is typically used to study services and applications in complex scenarios due to the infeasibility of deploying real testbeds. Many problems can be solved by using network simulators such as NS-3. With this in mind, the aim of this article is to introduce new NS-3 users through detailed information. It is sometimes difficult to handle by new users the traditional manuals developed by NS-3 project official website. In this article, NS-3 for communication network and Eclipse Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for powerful programming language are integrated step-by-step, explaining the main features of these open source software packages and concluding with an example simulation. Our effort is to make it easy for a beginner to be part of the NS-3 research community and to maintain an open environment of knowledge.

The co-occurrence of depression and obesity has become a significant public health concern worldwide. Recent studies have shown that metabolic dysfunction, which is commonly observed in obese individuals and characterized by inflammation, insulin resistance, leptin resistance, and hypertension, is a critical risk factor for depression. This dysfunction may induce structural and functional changes in the brain, ultimately contributing to depression's development. Given that obesity and depression mutually increase each other's risk of development by 50-60%, there is a need for effective interventions that address both conditions. The comorbidity of depression with obesity and metabolic dysregulation is thought to be related to chronic low-grade inflammation, characterized by increased circulating levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and C-reactive protein (CRP). As pharmacotherapy fails in at least 30-40% of cases to adequately treat major depressive disorder, a nutritional approach is emerging as a promising alternative. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) are a promising dietary intervention that can reduce inflammatory biomarkers, particularly in patients with high levels of inflammation, including pregnant women with gestational diabetes, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and overweight individuals with major depressive disorder. Further effort directed to implement these strategies in clinical practice could contribute to improved outcomes in patients with depression and comorbid obesity and/or metabolic dysregulation.

Rationale: The 14-3-3 protein family is known to interact with many proteins in non-cardiac cell types to regulate multiple signaling pathways, particularly those relating to energy and protein homeostasis; and the 14-3-3 network is a therapeutic target of critical metabolic and proteostatic signaling in cancer and neurological diseases. Although the heart is critically sensitive to nutrient and energy alterations, and multiple signaling pathways coordinate to maintain the cardiac cell homeostasis, neither the structure of cardiac 14-3-3 protein interactome, nor potential functional roles of 14-3-3 protein-protein interactions (PPIs) in heart has been explored. Objective: To establish the comprehensive landscape and characterize the functional role of cardiac 14-3-3 PPIs. Methods and Results: We evaluated both RNA expression and protein abundance of 14-3-3 isoforms in mouse heart, followed by co-immunoprecipitation of 14-3-3 proteins and mass spectrometry in left ventricle. We identified 52 proteins comprising the cardiac 14-3-3 interactome. Multiple bioinformatic analyses indicated that more than half of the proteins bound to 14-3-3 are related to mitochondria; and the deduced functions of the mitochondrial 14-3-3 network are to regulate cardiac ATP production via interactions with mitochondrial inner membrane proteins, especially those in mitochondrial complex I. Binding to ribosomal proteins, 14-3-3 proteins likely coordinate protein synthesis and protein quality control. Localizations of 14-3-3 proteins to mitochondria and ribosome were validated via immunofluorescence assays. The deduced function of cardiac 14-3-3 PPIs is to regulate cardiac metabolic homeostasis and proteostasis. Conclusions: Thus, the cardiac 14-3-3 interactome may be a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular metabolic and proteostatic disease states, as it already is in cancer therapy.

The aim of this paper is to study a semi-functional partial linear regression model (SFPLR) for spatial data with responses missing at random. The estimators are constructed by the kernel method, and some asymptotic properties such as probability convergence rates of the nonparametric component and asymptotic distribution of the parametric and nonparametric components are established under certain conditions. Next, the performances and the superiority of these estimators are presented and examined using a study on simulated data and on real data by carrying out a comparison between our semi-functional partially linear model with MAR estimator (SFPLRM), the semi-functional partially linear model with the full-case estimator (SFPLRC) and the nonparametric functional model estimator with MAR (FNPM). The results show that the proposed estimators outperform existing estimators as the number of random missing data increases.

The worldwide outbreak of a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 has caused a pandemic of respiratory disease. Due to this emergency, researchers around the globe have been investigating the evolution of the genome of SARS-CoV-2 in order to design vaccines. Here I examined the evolution of GC content of SARS-CoV-2 by comparing the genomes of the members of the group Betacoronavirus. The results of this investigation revealed a highly significant positive correlation between the GC contents of betacoronaviruses and their divergence from SARS-CoV-2. The betacoronaviruses that are distantly related to SARS-CoV-2 have much higher GC contents than the latter. Conversely, the closely related ones have low GC contents, which are only slightly higher than that of SARS-CoV-2. This suggests a systematic reduction in the GC content in the SARS-CoV-2 lineage over time. The declining trend in this lineage predicts a much-reduced GC content in the coronaviruses that will descend/evolve from SARS-CoV-2 in the future. Due to the three consecutive outbreaks (MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2) caused by the members of the SARS-CoV-2, the scientific community is emphasizing the need for universal vaccines that are effective across many strains including those, that will inevitably emerge in the near future. The reduction in GC contents implies an increase in the rate of GC→AT mutations than that the mutational changes in the reverse direction. Therefore, understanding the evolution of base composition and mutational patterns of SARS-CoV-2 could be useful in designing broad-spectrum vaccines that could identify and neutralize the present and future strains of this virus.

COVID-19 has affected 210 countries around the world, killed more than 240,000 and infected more than 3.4 million. Bangladesh, a South Asian low-middle-income economy, has experienced a demographic and epidemiological transition with rapid urbanization and a gradual increase in life expectancy. It is the seventh most populous country in the world and population of the country is expected to be nearly double by 2050. The increasing burden of noncommunicable diseases in Bangladesh can be attributable to rapid urbanization and nearly 50% of all slum dwellers of the country live in Dhaka division. In 2017, National Rapid Response Team of IEDCR investigated 26 incidents of disease outbreak. The joint survey of the Power and Participation Research Centre and BRAC Institute of Governance and Development reveals that per capita daily income of urban slum and rural poor drops by 80% due to present countrywide shutdown enforced by the government to halt the spread of Covid-19. 40%-50% of these population took loans to meet the daily expenses.

The use of risk measures such as the Value at Risk (VaR) or Tail Conditional Expectation (TCE) is required by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision in determining a bank’s risk profile. However, both measures can be shown to have shortcomings in the information that they provide to regulators and investors. In this paper we present an introduction to risk measure calculations before demonstrating the weaknesses of these measures. Through the exploration of specific cases we show how familiar yet differing risk profiles have identical values for combinations of these measures. From this evidence we recommend that a sequence of several risk measures should be used to give a more accurate representation of the risk contained on banking balance sheet.

Although multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that results in many neurological disabilities, optic neuritis (ON) is developed in some MS patients. However, the molecular mechanism of ON remains unknown. Galectins, β-galactoside-binding lectins, are involved in various pathophysiology. We have previously shown that galectin-3 (gal-3) is associated with the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), its animal model for human MS. In the current study, the expression of gal-3 was explored in the visual pathway of the EAE mice to clarify the pathogenesis of ON. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that expression of gal-3 was increased in the visual pathway of the EAE mice during the peak disease, compared with naïve and EAE mice during the chronic disease. Expression of gal-3 was observed in mainly microglia/macrophages and astrocytes in the visual pathway of the EAE mice. In addition, gal-3+Iba-1+ cells with the phagocytic activities reflected by immunostaining with cathepsin-D were accumulated at demyelinating lesions in the visual pathway during peak disease of EAE. Moreover, NLRP3 expression was also detected in most gal-3+Iba-1+ cells. These results indicate a considerable possibility that gal-3 regulates the NLRP3 signaling in microglia/macrophages, followed by neuroinflammatory demyelination in ON. By contrast, astrocytic expression of gal-3 was also observed from the peak to the chronic disease. Taken together, the current study suggests a critical role of gal-3 in the pathogenesis of ON and proposes gal-3 in glial cells as a potential therapeutic target for ON.

The patient was a 44-year-old woman with suspected Stevens-Johnson syndrome due to Baktar® (sulfamethoxazole trimethoprim) medication received at our outpatient dermatology clinic. Histopathological examination of the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous adipose tissue samples showed numerous necrotic keratinocytes in the epidermis. Apoptotic nuclei were visualized as diaminobenzidine brown deposits with immunoperoxidase staining for cleaved caspase-3. Cleaved-caspase3-positive findings were consistent with eosinophilic material that appeared to be necrotic cells within the epidermis. Therefore, these eosinophilic materials must be apoptotic bodies. Generally speaking, and especially in Japan, these materials are considered necrotic keratinocytes. To our best knowledge, no studies have used apoptotic immunohistochemical markers to examine whether these structures are apoptotic.

Crohn's disease is a non-specific inflammatory bowel disease, which is a chronic condition that affects the ileum and/or large intestine. At the same time, it can also involve any other part of the human body, that is, from the mouth to the anus. The symptoms are very bothersome and cause a significant reduction in quality of life and sometimes even crippling permanent damage to the gastrointestinal tract, which requires enteral or parenteral nutrition for life. The purpose of this study was to investigate tissue metalloproteinases as markers of recurrent Crohn's disease. The experimental groups included 31 patients and 10 patients with normal Crohn's disease, ranging in age from 23-70 years, with a mean age of 40.4. Collected tissues were frozen and then fragmented tissues were homogenized with Ripa Lysis buffer on ice. The supernatant was collared and four metalloproteinases - MMP 3, MMP 7, MMP 8 and MMP 9 - were an-alized by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay using SEA101HU, SEA102Hu, SEA103Hu and SEA553Hu kits (Cloud-Clone Corp., Kata, TX, USA). All chemical analyses were performed in triplicate. Metalloproteinase content was expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Metalloproteinase 3 and metalloproteinase 8) significantly influenced the possibility of Crohn recurrence

The antibodies targeting invasive proteins of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) merozoites is a clever strategy against malaria parasite. The recent finding that Plasmodium merozoites surface enolase is a target for growth neutralizing antibodies has generated interest in identifying its re-ceptor (s) on erythrocytes. In the present study, several biochemical experiments were undertaken involving recombinant Pf enolase and antibody against it to search for its cognate receptor. The binding of rPfeno to erythrocytes was selectively sensitive to trypsin but resistant to neuramini-dase. Failure of yeast enolase binding to human red blood cells under similar conditions indicat-ed high specificity of parasite Pfeno. The mass spectrometric and immunological analyses of pro-teins obtained in pull downs and co-immunoprecipitation samples led to identification of band 3 as an interactor/receptor for Plasmodium enolase. Structural characterization of sequences of band 3 - rPfeno interacting regions revealed C-terminal exocytic regions of band 3 to be binding to Pfeno. Similarly, band 3 binding regions of rPfeno were also identified. Identification of receptor-ligand (band 3: Pfeno) pair paves the way for antimalarial anti-Pf enolase-based vaccine, anti-Pf enolase antibodies as drug and also for developing novel small molecule-based invasion inhibi-tory therapeutics including peptidomimetics that could disrupt the band 3: Pfeno protein-protein interactions.

Abstract: Oxidative metabolism is crucial for leukemic stem cell (LSC) function and drug resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Mitochondrial metabolism also affects the immune system and therefore the antitumor response. Modulation of oxidative phosphorylation (OxPHOS) has emerged as a promising approach to improve therapy outcome for AML patients. However, the effect of mitochondrial inhibitors on the immune compartment in the context of AML is yet to be explored. Immune checkpoints such as the ecto-nucleotidase CD39 and programmed dead ligand 1 (PD-L1) have been reported to be expressed in AML and linked to chemoresistance and poor prognosis. In the present study, we first demonstrated that a novel selective electron transfer chain complex (ETC) I inhibitor, EVT-701, decreased OxPHOS metabolism of murine and human cytarabine (AraC)-resistant leukemic cell lines. Furthermore, we showed that, while AraC induced immune response regulation by increasing CD39 expression and by reinforcing interferon-γ/PD-L1 axis, EVT-701 reduced CD39 and PD-L1 expression in vitro in a panel of both murine and human AML cell lines, especially upon AraC treatment. Altogether, this work uncovers a non-canonical function of ETCI in controlling CD39 and PD-L1 immune checkpoints, thereby improving the anti-tumor response in AML.

Let $\mathcal{N}$ be an arbitrary class of matroids, closed under isomorphism. For $k$ a positive integer, we say that $M \in \mathcal{N}$ is \emph{$k$-minor-irreducible} if $M$ has no minor $N \in \mathcal{N}$ such that $1\leq\left|E\left(M\right)\right|-\left|E\left(N\right)\right|\leq k $. Tutte's Wheels and Whirls Theorem establish that, up to isomorphism, there are only two families of 1-minor-irreducible matroids in the class of 3-connected matroids. More recently, Lemos classified the 3-minor-irreducibles with at least 14 elements in the class of triangle-free 3-connected matroids. Here we prove a local characterization for the 2-minor-irreducible matroids with at least 11 elements in the class of triangle-free 3-connected matroids. This local characterization is used to establish two new families of 2-minor-irreducible matroids in this class.

Thanks to the pioneering studies of Østerud and co-workers it is now increasingly understood that natural polyphenols present in marine oils play an essential role in protecting omega-3 lipids from oxidation and autooxidation ensuring that no proinflammatory products are formed after intake as it often happens with assumption of refined omega-3 concentrates. Strong antioxidants exerting multiple biological functions, olive biophenols are ideally suited to functionalize marine oils creating a synergy which has the potential to foster public health across the world. This study identifies suitable avenues to advance the sustainable production of health-beneficial formulations based on newly obtained natural marine oils and olive phenolic extracts. Important educational outcomes for bioeconomy educators conclude the study.

This document describes the theoretical basis of the algorithms used to determine properties of snow and ice from the measurements of the Ocean and Land Color Instrument (OLCI) onboard Sentinel-3 satellites within the Pre-operational Sentinel-3 snow and ice products (SICE) project: http://snow.geus.dk/. The code used for the SICE retrieval and its documentation can be found at https://github.com/GEUS-SICE/pySICE. The algorithms were developed after the work from Kokhanovsky et al. (2018, 2019, 2020).

Inflammation is an essential protective response against injury or infection. Physiological inflammation eliminates the pathogen, promotes tissue repair and healing. An exaggerated, out of control inflammation, however, can become pathological. Inflammation can generate secondary cell damage, inflame the vessels (endothelitis), activate coagulation processes. Among these pathogenetic factors (cell damage, inflammation, endothelitis, coagulopathies), self-amplification mechanisms can be created, spreading beyond the initial site, up to Multiple Organ Failure (MOF) and host death. If the inflammation does not resolve in a physiological way, the remodeling of the tissues can be maladaptive and lead to the onset of chronic inflammatory degenerative diseases. Diseases such as sepsis, burns, polytrauma, severe forms of influenza or COVID-19, are characterized by a condition of hyperinflammation, associated with a condition of immunosuppression. The initial events triggered by the pathogen (cell damage, interferon response in the case of viruses) ignite the inflammation by activating the inflammasome, the transcription factor NFkB, the release of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids (Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, Thromboxanes) by neutrophils and macrophages. Hence, the cells of the innate immune system produce pro-inflammatory cytokines. Indeed, the ‘’eicosanoid storm’’ precedes the ‘’cytokine storm’’. Eicosanoids are a group of potent endogenous lipid mediators derived from omega-6 fatty acids Arachidonic Acid (AA). Eicosanoids include a group of molecules with pro-inflammatory (Prostaglandins, Leukotriens) and pro-coagulant (Thromboxanes) action. In addition, Arachidonic Acid (AA) is the source of Lipoxins (LXs). Lipoxins belong to a group of molecules collectively referred to as specialized pro-solving mediators (SPMs) which also include molecules derived from w-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): Resolvins (ReV-E sieres) and w-3 docohexanoic (DHA): Resolvins D-series (ReV D-series); Protectins (PTs); Maresins (MaRs). SPMs are important for the resolution phase of inflammation to take place properly. Their deficiency could be involved in both acute uncontrolled inflammation and chronic inflammation. The active regulation of the acute inflammatory process, integrating the precursors of Specialized Pro-resolving Mediators (SPMs), such as ⍵-6 and ⍵-3 in balanced ratio, or the SPMs themselves, could be a complementary therapeutic approach useful for taming the "storm of cytokines '' which characterizes exaggerated forms of inflammation. ⍵-3 and ⍵-6 are part of already widely used, readily available, inexpensive and safe supplements. Resolvins have already been included in clinical trials for various other inflammatory diseases (eye diseases, periodontal diseases).

A shrimp oil rich in omega-3 lipids and carotenoids is obtained in remarkably high 5 wt% yield extending to pink shrimp processing waste (head and carapace) the circular economy approach to extract fish oil from fish processing by-products using d-limonene. Biobased limonene, a powerful antimicrobial and antioxidant agent, is an excellent solvent for both lipids and astaxanthin-based carotenoids preventing oxidative degradation during the extraction cycle including solvent and oil separation at 85°C. A new low cost route is established to extract valued marine oil from biowaste annually made available in over 2.2 million tonnes.

Network Simulators (NS) is typically used to study services and applications in complex scenarios due to the infeasibility of deploying real testbeds. This is the case of Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) which can be extensively used in emergency situations or to gather information without infraestructure. An important factor to get realiable results in the MANETs’ simulations is the wireless channel module of NSs. In this report, we explain how thw wireless channel is implemented in NS-3 and it can be configured.

The efficacy of chemotherapy depends on sensitivity and intrinsic or acquired drug resistance of cancer cells. The n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFAs) are considered chemosensitizing agents and revertants of multidrug resistance by pleiotropic mechanisms. The specific mechanisms are not fully understood, but nowadays, it is widely accepted that there are a complex network of mechanisms, including alteration in gene expression, modulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation, induction of apoptosis, generation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. A crucial mechanism in the control of cell drug uptake and efflux is related to n-3 LCPUFA influence on membrane lipid composition. The incorporation of docosahexaenoic acid in the lipid rafts produces significant changes in their physical-chemical properties affecting content and functions of transmembrane proteins, such as growth factors, receptors and ATP-binding cassette transporters. Of note, n-3 LCPUFAs often impact on the lipid compositions more in chemoresistant cells than in chemosensitive cells, suggesting their adjuvant role in cancer treatment.

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk for the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the main cause of mortality worldwide, and it is characterized by high levels of circulating cholesterol. The drugs currently available for hypercholesterolemia control have several side effects, so it is necessary to develop new effective and safer therapies. Seaweeds serve as sources of several bio-active compounds with claimed beneficial effects. Eisenia bicyclis (Aramé) and Porphyra tenera (Nori) are edible seaweeds which were previously recognized as rich in bioactive compounds. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the anti-hypercholesterolemia effect of these two seaweeds ex-tracts and their health potential. Both extracts, but more efficiently Aramé extract demonstrated to have liver 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) inhibitory activity and to reduce approximately 30 % cholesterol permeation through human Caco-2 cells simulating the intestinal lining, targets for hypercholesterolemia treatments. An untargeted metabolomic assay on human intestinal Caco-2 and liver Hep-G2 cells lines exposed to Aramé and Nori extracts revealed changes in the cell’s metabolism as indicators of the extract’s health beneficial effects. The metabolic pathways affected by exposure to both extracts were associated to lipid metabolism, such as phospholipids, and fatty acid metabolism, pathways of amino acid, cofactors and vitamins and cellular respiration metabolism. More profound for Aramé treated cells, but also seen for Nori ex-posed cells, the metabolites modifications were associated with the protection against CVDs and other diseases and, to the improvement of cells oxidative stress tolerance. The results obtained for the anti-hypercholesterolemia properties, in addition to the revelation of the positive impact on cells metabolism, are an important contribution for further evaluation of these seaweeds extracts as functional foods or for CVDs prevention.

Dolichandrone spathacea is a rare and endangered semi-mangrove plant species with an extremely small population, naturally distributed only in Zhanjiang City and the east coast of Hainan Island, China. Regrettably, the present situation of the D. spathacea population in China has not yet been carefully investigated. In this study, we aim to evaluate the current resource status and population dynamic characteristics of D. spathacea on Hainan Island, China, in order to propose sustainable conservation and management strategies for future ecological restoration of its natural population. Our results show that D. spathacea on Hainan Island can be divided into four populations. All the D. spathacea populations present a state of overall dispersion, local concentration, and occasionally sporadic existence, and they exist in geographical isolation. The young, middle, and old D. spathacea plants account for 20.42%, 66.20%, and 13.38%, respectively, indicating that the overall age class of the D. spathacea population on Hainan Island belongs to a declining type. Furthermore, instead of temporal structure, we chose diameter at breast height (DBH) to establish a static life table, draw a population survival curve, and quantify the future development trend through population dynamic analysis and time-series prediction. These results directly point out that the D. spathacea population on Hainan Island is sensitive to external disturbances and possesses two main increases in mortality rate—namely, in its juvenile and mature stages—due to weak vitality, competition, and anthropogenic interferences, which are the most important reasons for its endangered status. Depending on the current conditions of the D. spathacea population, we should conserve and expand mature trees in situ, preserve their germplasm resources, rehabilitate their habitats to promote provenance restoration, and conduct artificial cultivation and spreading planting in order to realize the sustainable conservation and management of D. spathacea.

Reading proficiency is requisite in our read-to-learn educational system, yet two-thirds of American students are not proficient readers. Assuring educational equity means supporting all learners with multiple component reading interventions that individually scaffold students while remediating weak literacy skills and providing intensive and sustainable intervention early. This study (N = 855) measured the efficacy of two different multiple component reading programs for students in grades three, four, and five. Grade levels of students were assigned to either the treatment intervention or the typical practice condition; and all students were pre-and post-tested using EasyCBM Reading Benchmarks. Students scoring at/below the 30^th percentile on either benchmark were also assessed with the WRMT-3 Passage Reading Comprehension and Oral Reading Fluency measures. Students in the treatment condition received Readable English and students in typical practice condition continued to receive Amplify CKLA during their regular ELA times for 45—60 hours. Students receiving Readable English significantly outperformed students in the typical practice condition on measures of oral reading fluency, reading rate, accuracy, and passage comprehension. Raw scores, growth scale values, and grade equivalents are reported, and implications for practice are discussed. In a school year fraught with pandemic instructional interruptions and learning loss, elementary students in the intervention condition averaged a year’s worth of growth in reading fluency and nine months of growth in reading comprehension compared to three- and five-months fluency and comprehension growth in the typical practice condition. Students in the Readable English condition experienced meaningful gains in reading rate and accuracy that will give exponential word reading volume dividends to students able to read text faster and more accurately going forward. This study adds to accumulating evidence that multiple component reading programs designed to reinforce fluency skills also support reading comprehension gains for all students.

This paper is focused on mapping the current evolution of Internet of Things (IoT) and its associated cyber risks for the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) sector. We report the results of a qualitative empirical study that correlates academic literature with 14 - I4.0 frameworks and initiatives. We apply the grounded theory approach to synthesise the findings from our literature review, to compare the cyber security frameworks and cyber security quantitative impact assessment models, with the world leading I4.0 technological trends. From the findings, we build a new impact assessment model of IoT cyber risk in Industry 4.0. We therefore advance the efforts of integrating standards and governance into Industry 4.0 and offer a better understanding of economics impact assessment models for I4.0.

Total Nigeria Plc is a Marketing and Services subsidiary of Total; a multinational energy company operating in more than 130 countries and committed to providing sustainable products and services for its customers. For over 50 years, Total Nigeria Plc has remained the leader in the downstream sector of the Nigerian oil and gas industry. This study investigated the volatility of the stock price of Total Petroleum Nigeria plc using nine (9) GARCH models namely sGARCH, gjrGARCH, eGARCH, iGARCH, aPARCH, TGARCH, NGARCH, NAGARCH and AVGARCH. We also investigated the Value-at-Risk (VaR) and Backtesting of the Models. The aim actually of this study is to boost the confidence of the shareholders and investors of the Total Nigeria plc. To achieve this, daily stock price for Total petroleum Nigeria plc from secondary was collected from January 2^nd 2001 to May 8^th 2017. . The study used both normal and student t innovations, using Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) to select the best model, for normal innovations for log returns and cleansed log returns of Total plc, the eGARCH and sGARCH models performed best respectively, while NGARCH model performed best for student t innovation for both log returns and cleansed returns of Total plc. The persistence of the models are stable except in few cases where iGARCH, eGARCH where not stable. Also for student t innovation, the sGARCH and gjrGARCH fails to converge. The mean-reverting number of day for the returns of Total Nigeria plc differs from model to model. Evidence from the VaR Analysis revealed from the selected models revealed that the Risk of VaR losses is high at 99% confidence level, slightly high at 95% confidence level and better at 90% confidence level. Although The Duration-Based Tests of independence conducted revealed that the models are correctly specified since in all cases the null hypotheses were accepted. This means that the probability of an exception on any day did not depends on the outcome of the previous day. Finally, both the unconditional (Kupiec) and conditional (Christoffersen) coverage tests for the correct number of exceedances for both Total stock returns and cleansed returns. The tests revealed rejection of the models at 1% level of significance. This confirms that unconditional (Kupiec) and conditional (Christoffersen) coverage tests for the correct number of exceedances are reliable compared to the Duration-Based Tests of independence. Therefore we recommend that shareholders and investors in Total Nigeria plc are to remain and continue to investment in Total Nigeria plc because if there is any form of losses, the price of the stock has the potentials to improve in the future. Again, though the risk is high at 99% confidence level, this in line with the financial theory that states that an asset with high expected risk would pay higher return on the average.

Currently, studies are being conducted on the possible role of the cytoprotective effect of biologically active substances in conditions of cerebral hypoxia or cardiomyopathies. At the same time, oxidative stress is considered as one of the important mechanisms of cellular cytotoxicity and a target for the action of cytoprotectors. The aim of this study is to search for derivatives of 3-(arylmethyl)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridin-2(1H)-ones. The probability of cytoprotective action was assessed by two tests by measuring cell viability (with neutral red dye and MTT test). It was found that some derivatives of 3-(arylmethyl)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridin-2(1H)-ones under the conditions of our experiment have a pronounced cytoprotective activity, providing better cell survival in vitro, including the MTT test and conditions of blood hyperviscosity. To correlate the obtained results in vitro, molecular docking of the synthesized derivatives was also carried out. The standard drug omeprazole (co-crystallized with the enzyme) was used as a standard. It was shown that all synthesized derivatives of 3-(arylmethyl)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridin-2(1H)-ones had higher affinity for the selected protein than the standard gastro-cytoprotector omeprazole. The studied derivatives of 3-(arylmethyl)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridin-2(1H)-ones also fully satisfy Lipinski's rule of thumb of five (RO5), which increases their chances for possible use as orally active drugs with a good ability to absorption and moderate lipophilicity. Thus, the results obtained make it possible to evaluate derivatives of 3-(arylmethyl)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridin-2(1H)-ones as having a relatively high cytoprotective potential.

The major auxin, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), is associated with a plethora of growth and developmental processes including embryo development, expansion growth, cambial activity, and the induction of lateral root growth. Accumulation of the auxin precursor indole-3-acetamide (IAM) induces stress related processes by stimulating abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis. How IAM signaling is controlled is, at present, unclear. Here, we characterize an ami1/rooty double mutant, that we initially generated to study the metabolic and phenotypic consequences of a genetic blockade of the indole glucosinolate and IAM pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana. Our mass spectrometric analyses of the mutant revealed that the combination of the two mutations is not sufficient to fully prevent the conversion of IAM to IAA. The detected strong accumulation of IAM was, however, recognized to substantially impair seed development. We further show by genome-wide expression studies that the double mutant is broadly affected in its translational capacity, and that a small number of cell proliferation and plant growth regulating transcriptional circuits are repressed by the high IAM content in the seed. In accordance with the previously described growth reduction in response to elevated IAM levels, our data support the hypothesis that IAM is a growth repressing counterpart to IAA.

Abstract Introduction: Visual perceptual skills are essential for independent participation in self-care tasks, educational, work and leisure time activities. The effect of HIV on the visual perceptual skills is not well understood among children in low resource settings like Zimbabwe. Methods: A cross sectional comparative study was done with 30 children living with HIV and 30 children living without HIV residing in Harare urban area. The TVPS-3 was used to assess their visual perceptual skills. SPSS version 22, STATISTICA 13 and Microsoft 2016 were used for data analysis. Results: Both groups of children had mean percentile ranks below 50 on their TVPS-3 scores. Children without HIV generally performed better than those with HIV but the difference was not statistically significant in most cases. Through univariate analysis, only performance on Spatial Relations significantly differed between the two groups. Both groups had lowest scores in Basic visual perceptual skills. Age and school grade were the independent predictors of the children’s performances in the study. Conclusion: There is need for Occupational therapy services in public primary schools and in the pediatric Opportunistic Infections clinics in hospitals to be part of the health team which caters for children with visual perceptual challenges.

Predicting and evaluating the vitality level of public spaces of urban design is crucial before new construction and renewal, especially for developing countries, to avoid failures like "ghost neighborhood" and reduce resource waste. However, existing assessment methods for the urban vitality are either static and ignore changes in the time dimension, or rely on historical big data and are unable to predict unbuilt projects. This study combines previous methods and crowds’ characteristics observation in public space, puts forward the crowd-frequency hypothesis and constructs an algorithm, and establishes a time-dimensional urban vitality dynamic prediction model. Taking the Rundle Mall neighborhood in Adelaide, Australia, as an example, the effec-tiveness of the prediction model was proved through on-site observation sampling comparative verification method. In addition, the decision tree model was used to conduct machine learning on the case data, and a set of algorithm programs were obtained that can directly input some basic information to obtain the urban vitality level (high-medium-low) in a certain period. It can be used as a tool to support the design and decision-making processes of urban planners and government officials, providing a low-cost way to achieve sustainable urban vitality construction of late-developing cities directly.

Development of new techniques of multimodal treatment, diagnostics of various neoplasms and improvement of these techniques can significantly increase the life expectancy of patients with carcinomas of the colon and abdominal cavity organs, since prevention of various side effects of radiation therapy is one of the main problems of oncological care. Electron irradiation is one of the most promising types of radiation therapy. There are no data on proliferation and apoptosis of the colon epithelium after irradiation with electrons, especially in different modes (single and summary). Aim of the study: Morphological evaluation of apoptosis and proliferation of colonic epithelium after local irradiation with electrons at doses 2 Gy and 25 Gy. Materials and methods. Colon fragments from sexually mature Wistar rats (n=50, body weight 200 ± 10 g) were divided into three groups: I - control (n = 10); II - experimental group (n = 20; local single electron irradiation at a dose of 2 Gy), III - experimental group (n=30), local fractional irradiation with electrons at a total dose of 25 Gy. They were studied by light microscopy using hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical reactions with antibodies to Ki-67 and Cas3. Morphological disorders were accompanied by increased expression of pro-apoptotic molecules (caspase-3), and the period of regeneration by proliferative marker (Ki-67). Conclusions: Local fractional irradiation of the colon with electrons at a dose of 2 Gy and 25 Gy resulted in minor changes in the epithelium, a decrease in the number of goblet cells, but with preservation of regenerative potential, mild degenerative-dystrophic lesions. Intestinal crypts were damaged, leading to a decrease in Ki-67 and an increase in the number of caspase-3-positive epitheliocytes.

Hip joint surgeries, including total hip replacement or resurfacing, have increased tremendously in the last decades. Number of patients of all ages, replace their hip, due to severe injuries or trauma problems, so as to have a better life. According to these factors, new material and processes in implants manufacturing are imported to medicine, through research programs, every year. In the scope of one of these programs, that has to do with ceramic coatings on metallic resurfacing implants, a new 3axis Hip simulator was designed and manufactured in the Laboratory of Manufacturing Technology of the National Technical University of Athens. The scope of this paper is to present the main parts, materials and process used to manufacture the simulator as well as the way the simulator is working and how its movement in 3axis is accomplished. Furthermore, the evaluation of the machine and its use to examine resurfacing implants is presented.

Background: Cell-free plasma DNA (cfDNA) is composed of circulating extracellular DNA originating from apoptosis or cell necrosis. It is generally present in healthy individuals, but its levels increase in different clinical conditions, such as kidney disease, sepsis, myocardial infarction, trauma and cancer. Caspase-3 plays a central role in apoptosis, a mechanism of programmed cell death involved in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: We compared cfDNA and caspase-3 levels in 25 CKD patients and in 10 healthy subjects, evaluating the modification of their concentrations according to CKD stage. We also analyzed the correlation between cfDNA and caspase-3 levels in CKD patients and the correlation between cfDNA and caspase-3 levels and creatinine and urea. Results: CfDNA and caspase-3 levels were higher in CKD patients compared to healthy subjects, in particular in patients with advanced renal disease. A positive correlation between cfDNA and caspase-3 levels and between cfDNA and caspase-3 and creatinine and urea was also observed. Conclusion: Patients with chronic kidney disease present higher levels of cfDNA and caspase-3 levels compared with healthy subjects. The worsening of renal damage and the increase in uremic toxin concentration are associated to higher levels of cfDNA and caspase-3 levels, thus reflecting a central role of apoptosis in the pathogenesis of CKD.

The elderly present age-related morphological and histological changes of the oral cavity; Literature displays many studies regarding the specific pathologies of the oral cavity in elderly patients, but no etiologically based classification is available. The aim of this study was to analyze the series of patients over 65 who were treated by our Unit of Pathology between 2020 and 2022 for a suspicion of oral lesion or for preventive dental evaluation (in anticipation of cardiac surgery, anti-resorptive drugs intake, chemotherapy, radiotherapy of the head-neck district or transplantation). The analysis was conducted by dividing oral lesions into 5 groups depending on the etiology: reactive, immunological, traumatic, benign and malignant degenerative. The sixth group consisted of patients undergoing preventive dental evaluation. The study included 435 patients; 91 of them were diagnosed with a reactive origin pathology, 174 with immunological origin pathology, 48 with traumatic pathology and 86 with degenerative pathology (42 benign and 44 malignant). 36 patients went to our Unit for preventive specialist evaluation. Oral health has a major impact on the daily life of the elderly; The examination of oral mucosa in geriatric patients is a fundamental diagnostic moment to report lesions early, thus allowing easier prevention and treatment.

Aim: Evaluation of role of supplementation of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on endothelial function in patients with metabolic syndrome. Methods: Total of 80 patients with metabolic syndrome were enrolled to two groups. We evaluated endothelial function in subjects before and after three-month treatment with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in dose 2.4g daily (800mg 3 times a day) vs placebo. Using the Endo-PAT2000 device (Itamar Medical Ltd. Caesarea, Israel), reactive hyperemia index – a parameter of endothelial function and augmentation index– a parameter of arterial stiffness were measured. Plasmatic level of glutation peroxidase, homocysteine, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein (a) were also evaluated. Results: The average values of reactive hyperemia index before the treatment with n-3PUFA was 1.62 ± 0.42 , whereas 1.96 ± 0.62 at the end of the study (p<0.005). Augmentation index changed from 14.66 ± 19.55 to 9.21 ± 15.64 after the treatment (p=0.003). We also observed statistically significant decrease of apolipopotein B (0.94 ± 0.36 vs 1.13 ± 0.35, p = 0.001) and homocysteine (19.31 ± 5.29 vs. 13.78 ± 3.05, p = 0.001) and increase of the glutathion perxidase plasma levels (41.65 ± 8.90 vs. 45.20 ± 8.01), p=0.001. Conclusion: We have observed significant improvement of the endothelial function in subjects with metabolic syndrome treated with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in dose 2.4g daily.

This article presents an experimental approach to fatigue testing of cableway gondolas, carried out in accordance with the EN 13796-3 standard. Due to the limitations of the aforementioned regulations and the lack of clarity in their content, when designing and conducting fatigue tests of gondolas, there is a need to find solutions that meet the normative requirements, while ensuring the cost-effectiveness of the tests. The work presents the method of loading, receiving the degrees of freedom, the methodology of gondola strength verification, and additional suggestions allowing for the satisfactory preparation of a plan of fatigue tests and their implementation. The paper shows problems and ways to solve it, what may occur during cableway gondolas fatigue test design. The research object is a 6-seater gondola designed by TRANSSYSTEM S.A. with its registered office in Wola Dalsza (Poland).

After a long limbo, RNA has gained its credibility as a druggable target, fully earning its de-served role in the next-generation area of pharmaceutical R&D. We have recently probed the Trans-Activation Response element (TAR), a RNA stem–bulge–loop domain of the HIV-1 genome with bis-3-chloropiperidines (B-CePs), and revealed the compounds unique behavior in stabiliz-ing TAR structure, thus impairing in vitro the chaperone activity of the HIV-1 nucleocapsid (NC) protein. Seeking to elucidate the determinants of B-CePs inhibition, we have further characterized here their effects on the target TAR and its NC recognition, while developing quantitative analyti-cal approaches for the study of multicomponent RNA-based interactions.

We previously found increases in uncoupling protein (Ucp)-1 transcription in brown adipose tissue (BAT) of mice following a single oral dose of flavan 3-ols (FL), a fraction of catechins and procyanidins. It was confirmed that these changes were totally reduced by co-treatment of adrenaline blockers. According to these previous results, FL possibly activates sympathetic nervous system (SNS). In this study, we confirmed the marked increase in urinary catecholamine (CA) s projecting SNS activity following a single dose of 50 mg/kg FL. In addition, we examined the impact of the repeated administration of 50 mg/kg FL for 14 days on adipose tissues in mice. In BAT, FL tended to increase the level of Ucp-1 along with thermogenic transcriptome factors, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator (PGC)-1α and PR domain-containing (PRDM)1. Transcription of browning markers, such as CD137 and transmembrane protein (TMEM) 26 in addition to PGC-1α were increased in epididymal adipose (eWAT) by FL. A multilocular morphology with cell size reduction was shown in the inguinal adipose (iWAT), together with increasing the level of Ucp-1 following administration of FL. These results suggest that FL produces browning in adipose through activation of the SNS.

Bioactive glass (BG) represents a promising biomaterial for bone healing; here injectable BG pastes biological properties were improved by 25 wt% gelatin or chitosan, as well as mechanical resistance was enhanced by adding 10 or 20 wt% 3-Glycidyloxypropyl trimethoxysilane (GPTMS) cross-linker. Composites exhibited bioactivity as apatite formation was observed by SEM and XRD after 14 days immersion in SBF; moreover, polymers did not enhance degradability as weight loss was &gt;10% after 30 days in physiological conditions. BG-gelatin-20 wt% GPTMS composites demonstrated the highest compressive strength (4.8±0.5 MPa) in comparison with 100% BG control (1.9±0.1 MPa). Cytocompatibility was demonstrated towards human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC), osteoblasts progenitors and endothelial cells. The presence of 20 wt% GPTMS conferred antibacterial properties thus inhibiting the joint pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis infection. Finally, hMSC osteogenesis was successfully supported in a 3D model as demonstrated by alkaline phosphatase release and osteogenic genes expression.

Image fusion is a useful tool for producing a high-resolution multispectral image to be used for land use and land cover mapping. In this study, we use nine pansharpening algorithms namely Color Normalized (CN), Gram-Schmidt (GS), Hyperspherical Color Space (HCS), High Pass Filter (HPF), Nearest-Neighbor Diffusion (NND), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Resolution Merge (RM), Stationary Wavelet Transform (SWT), and Wavelet Resolution Merge (WRM) to fusion Worldview-3 multispectral Bands and panchromatic band. In spectral and spatial fidelity, several image quality metrics are used to evaluate the performance of pansharpening algorithms. The SWT and PCA algorithms showed better results compared to other pansharpening algorithms while GS and CN algorithms showed the worst results for the original image fusion. The effect of fusion on each band was separately investigated and according to the calculations, we found that the CoastalBlue band and the Blue band showed the best result and the NIR-1 band and NIR-2 band show the worst result for the original image fusion. In the end, we conclude that the choice of fusion method depends on the requirement of remote sensing application.

Preeclampsia (PE) is a common pregnancy complication. It is associated with high maternal morbidity and mortality rates and intrauterine foetal growth restriction. This condition is characterised by high blood pressure and urinary protein levels. Apelin and galectin-3 (Gal- 3) are peptides involved in the regulation of body fluid homeostasis, inflammation and cardiovascular functions. This study aimed to determine the correlations amongst serum apelin and Gal-3 levels and insulin resistance (IR) in women with PE. Sixty patients with PE and 30 healthy controls participated in this study. The PE group had significantly lower apelin levels (p < 0.01) and higher Gal-3 levels (p < 0.05) than the control group. The PE group had higher serum glucose levels and β-cell functions than the control group. Moreover, patients with PE exhibited dyslipidaemia. Correlation analysis indicated that apelin and Gal-3 levels were not significantly correlated. Moreover, no correlation existed between the apelin levels and any measured parameters of the PE group. In conclusion, the elevations in serum Gal-3 levels with increments in IR-related parameters and lipid profiles reflect the possible contribution of Gal-3 to the harmful effects of IR and dyslipidemia levels on women with PE.

Bacterial indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), an effector molecule in microbial physiology, plays an important role in plant growth-promotion. Here, we comprehensively analyzed about 7282 prokaryotic genomes representing diverse bacterial phyla, combined with root-associated metagenomic data to unravel the distribution of tryptophan-dependent IAA synthesis pathways and to quantify the IAA synthesis-related genes in the plant root environments. We found that 82.2% of the analyzed bacterial genomes were potentially capable of synthesizing IAA from tryptophan (Trp) or intermediates. Interestingly, several phylogenetically diverse bacteria showed a preferential tendency to utilize different pathways and tryptamine and indole-3-pyruvate pathways are most prevalent in bacteria. About 45.3% of the studied genomes displayed multiple coexisting pathways, constituting complex IAA synthesis systems. Furthermore, root-associated metagenomic analyses revealed that rhizobacteria mainly synthesize IAA via IAM and tryptamine (TMP) pathways and might possess stronger IAA synthesis abilities than bacteria colonizing other environments. The obtained results refurbished our understanding of bacterial IAA synthesis pathways and provided a faster and less labor-intensive alternative to physiological screening based on genome collections. The better understanding of IAA synthesis among bacterial communities could maximize the utilization of bacterial IAA to augment the crop growth and physiological function.

Nowadays, network simulators are very useful to model a communications system. In this technical note we will focus in the creation of a new error model in NS-3 network simulator. This note describes the main steps to create or modify an Wi-Fi error model in this network simulator. In our case, we have created a new error model to included the approach of [1] to compute PER (Packet Error Rate) for vehicular environments.