Abstract: Background: Field-based functional fitness tests are widely used to assess exercise capacity, yet their acute physiological responses in clinical populations remain incompletely characterized. This study examined acute cardiopulmonary responses to a two-minute step test (2MST) in adults with cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: A total of 239 adults (155 women, 84 men) with cardiovascular risk factors completed the 2MST. Pulmonary function (FVC, FEV₁, PEF), oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO₂), and heart rate were assessed before and immediately after the test. Analyses were performed overall and stratified by sex, age, and tertiles of step count. Results: Following the 2MST, small but significant increases in FVC and FEV₁ were observed across sex and age groups (p < 0.05). Improvements in PEF were most evident in younger men. Participants with lower baseline stepping performance showed greater increases in SpO₂, particularly women, with improvements of up to approximately 1.7 percentage points. Heart rate increased by approximately 25 beats per minute during exercise and did not differ significantly across performance tertiles after adjustment. Conclusions: The two-minute step test elicits measurable acute cardiopulmonary responses in adults with cardiovascular risk factors. Beyond its role as a functional fitness assessment, the 2MST provides a brief physiological stimulus associated with improved oxygenation, particularly in individuals with lower baseline functional capacity.

Abstract: The European Green Deal aims to make Europe the world's first carbon-neutral continent, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 seeks to achieve neutrality in land degradation. For that, soil, a depletable natural resource, requires adequate protection and preservation, which calls for its management through an environmentally conscious framework. Soil supplies food regulates water and nutrient cycles, and healthy soils also store carbon. Its ecosystem services are under pressure, making it difficult to maintain its health and preserve biodiversity. Despite existing legal instruments, soil degradation is on the rise and is mostly addressed indirectly in the EU governance measures, without a harmonized soil legislation before the 23rd of October 2025, when the Directive on Soil Monitoring and Resilience was approved by the European Parliament. This directive will complement existing soil legislation and will contribute to healthy soils as soil starts to be treated as a protected natural resource. This study aims to carry out a critical analysis of Portuguese and European Union soil legislation, based on the information available in the SoiLEX database. The aim was to evaluate the contributions of that legislation to soil health, particularly regarding soil threats that are listed in that database. It was found that Portuguese legislative acts only make indirect references to threats to soil, in a vague manner related to soil salinization, and no reference is made to soil acidification. European Union legislation makes more direct references to the SoiLEX database threats to soil, but for some soil threats, the references are still indirect. Moreover, there is no reference as a SoiLEX Topic to salinization, compaction, and acidification of soil. The contribution of this study is to reveal the absence of soil protection visibility on EU and Portuguese legislation and can be used to revise and update the soil related legislation.

Abstract: ligocene rocks and fluids of A-1X well were conducted for source rock and fluid characterization and implying the suitable geological sites for CO2 storage from high-salinity water in sandstone reservoirs based on Rock-Eval pyrolysis, vitrinite reflectance measurement, bitumen extraction, hydrocarbon fractionation, gas chromatography, stable carbon isotope, formation water and X-Ray Diffraction analyses. Shale source rocks reveal fairly good potential of hydrocarbon generation. Compositions of gas sample in gas-related zones 1010-1110m are mainly composed of CH4, following C2+, N2, and a little content of CO2 and no noticeable of H2S. Carbon isotopes of oil and gas samples reveal the organic matters mainly derived from sapropelic and little humic sources, entering the mature stage to oil window phases. The formation water is classified as Calcium-Chloride type that contain high concentrations of total dissolved solid, salinity, and K+, Na+ and Cl- cations. This formation water is associated with deep source, and close system that are effective conditions for a large pool with good sealing capacity and not impacted by dissolution of the salt rock around. Most sandstones comprise very high visual porosities including high quartz, plagioclase and calcite minerals that are favorable conditions for subsurface pore space and CO2 injection in over saturated fluids. The popular presence of brittle minerals in the upper part of strongly fractured basement indicates this could be a good sandstone reservoir. The finding is identification of suitable candidate for storing CO2 in the saline aquifer under the active petroleum system with current oil and gas accumulations.

Abstract: Background Hospitalizations for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) increasingly involve a complex interaction of chronic liver disease, cardiometabolic comorbidities, and systemic complications, which now exert greater influence than tumor-specific factors alone. However, contemporary data on how the evolving comorbidity burden affects inpatient resource utilization and procedural care are limited. This study evaluates national trends in inpatient characteristics, procedural utilization, and outcomes among patients hospitalized with HCC from 2018 to 2022. Methods A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of adult hospitalizations was performed using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2018 to 2022. Hospitalizations involving HCC were identified through ICD-10 diagnosis codes, encompassing both principal and secondary diagnoses. Survey-weighted analyses were used to estimate national prevalence, in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges. Temporal trends were evaluated using survey-weighted logistic or linear regression, with calendar year as a continuous variable. Multivariable survey-weighted logistic regression models were constructed to identify adjusted predictors of inpatient mortality and procedural utilization, including liver transplantation, hepatic resection, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement. Results During the study period, an estimated 275,000 HCC-related hospitalizations occurred nationwide. The prevalence of cardiometabolic comorbidities increased significantly over time (all p< 0.001), including MASLD (6.6% to 8.7%), obesity (10.6% to 13.7%), diabetes (36.0% to 38.9%), and dyslipidemia (26.4% to 34.4%). In-hospital mortality rose from 8.82% (95% CI, 8.40-9.24%) in 2018 to 9.23% (95% CI, 8.81-9.65%) in 2022, with the highest rate in 2020 (9.42%). In parallel, inpatient resource utilization rose, as reflected by longer lengths of stay and higher hospitalization charges. Utilization of diagnostic endoscopic procedures, such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, increased, whereas rates of definitive inpatient oncologic and portal hypertension–directed interventions—including liver transplantation, hepatic resection, and TIPS—remained low and stable. In-hospital mortality was independently associated with markers of hepatic decompensation and systemic illness, including hepatic encephalopathy, acute kidney injury, sepsis, and hepatorenal syndrome. These associations were stronger than those observed for tumor-directed procedures, as reflected by inpatient procedural utilization patterns. Conclusions Between 2018 and 2022, inpatient resource utilization among patients hospitalized with hepatocellular carcinoma increased in parallel with rising cardiometabolic comorbidity and was driven primarily by the management of hepatic decompensation and systemic illness rather than oncologic intervention. These findings characterize the evolving complexity of HCC hospitalizations in the contemporary inpatient setting.

Abstract: Digital technologies such as big data are reshaping resource allocation, raising interest in whether and how Heterogeneous science and technology innovation (STI) policies can help unlock urban carbon lock-in. Using panel data for 286 prefecture-level cities in China from 2009 to 2023, this paper examines the effects of heterogeneous STI policy intensity—classified as supply-side, demand-side, complementary-factor, and institutional-reform policies—on urban carbon unlocking efficiency. We develop a mechanism-based framework and empirically assess (i) the moderating roles of digital infrastructure, science and technology finance, and government green attention, and (ii) spatial spillover effects using spatial econometric models. The results show that all four policy types significantly improve local carbon unlocking efficiency, with institutional-reform policies exhibiting the largest marginal effect. When the four types are included jointly, only supply-side and demand-side policies retain statistically significant direct effects. Heterogeneity analyses indicate that demand-side, complementary-factor, and institutional-reform policies are more effective in low-pollution cities, whereas supply-side and demand-side policies have stronger effects in high energy-consuming cities. Mechanism tests further reveal that digital infrastructure amplifies policy effectiveness by facilitating factor mobility, science and technology finance strengthens policy impacts by easing financial constraints, and government green attention enhances policy effectiveness by improving implementation. Finally, carbon unlocking efficiency displays significant spatial dependence: supply-side and institutional-reform policies generate positive spillovers, while complementary-factor policies exhibit negative spillovers. Overall, the findings provide empirical evidence to inform the design and coordination of heterogeneous STI policy portfolios aimed at improving urban carbon unlocking efficiency.

Abstract: Aridity represents a fundamental climatic constraint governing water resources, eco-system functioning, and agricultural systems in transitional climate zones. This study examines the spatial organization and temporal variability of aridity and thermal con-tinentality in North Macedonia using observational records from 13 meteorological stations distributed across contrasting altitudinal and physiographic settings. The analysis is based on homogenized monthly and annual air temperature and precipitation series covering the period 1991–2020. Aridity and continentality were quantified using the De Martonne Aridity Index (IDM), the Pinna Combinative Index (IP), and the Johansson Continentality Index (JCI). Temporal consistency and trend behavior were evaluated using Pettitt’s nonparametric change-point test, linear regression, the Mann–Kendall test, and Sen’s slope estimator. Links between aridity variability and large-scale atmospheric circulation were examined using correlations with the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI). The results show a spatially consistent and statistically significant increase in mean annual air temper-ature, with a common change point around 2006, while precipitation displays strong spatial variability and limited temporal coherence. Aridity patterns display a strong altitudinal control, with extremely humid to very humid conditions prevailing in mountainous western regions and semi-humid to semi-dry conditions dominating lowland and southeastern areas, particularly during summer. Trend analyses do not reveal statistically significant long-term changes in aridity or continentality over the study period, although low-elevation stations exhibit weak drying tendencies. A mod-erate positive association between IDM and IP (r = 0.66) confirms internal consistency among aridity indices, while summer aridity shows a statistically significant relationship with the NAO. These results provide a robust climatic reference for North Mace-donia, establishing a first climatological baseline of aridity conditions based on multi-ple indices applied to homogenized observations, and contributing to regional assess-ments of hydroclimatic variability relevant to climate adaptation planning.

Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive thermal analysis, design, and optimization framework for electrothermal heating systems integrated into composite wing structures. Thermal behavior is first investigated using finite volume simulations conducted with a commercial solver. An in-house thermal solver is then developed based on the governing heat transfer equations and a second-order finite difference discretization scheme. The in-house solver is validated against the commercial solver, showing a maximum deviation less than 1%. The validated solver is subsequently coupled with a genetic algorithm to perform multi-objective optimization of the electrothermal heating system. A novel correlation for the convection heat transfer coefficient over airfoil surfaces is developed based on extensive turbulent flow simulations and genetic algorithm. The developed correlation equation has significantly lower percent relative error (from 34% to 6%) compared to flat plate correlations. The developed convection coefficient is incorporated into the optimization process. Key design variables including heat generation intensity, heater strip dimensions, and the thermal conductivity of composite and surface protection materials are included in the optimization process. An original objective function is formulated to simultaneously minimize electrical power consumption, prevent ice formation on the external surface, and limit internal temperatures to safe operating ranges for composite materials. The optimized design is evaluated under both spatially varying and constant convection heat transfer coefficients to assess the impact of convection modeling assumptions. The proposed methodology provides a unified and extensible framework for the optimal design of electrothermal ice protection systems and can be readily extended to three-dimensional composite wing configurations.

Abstract: In this paper we demonstrate that the transition from a stable Dodecahedral Core (Valamontes, 2024) to the "Wild" chaotic phase corresponds physically to the "Elongated Phase" of 4-D simplicial quantum gravity (Gionti, 1997). This phase is characterized by the emergence of Besicovitch (Kakeya) needle sets—fractal structures that achieve maximal directional complexity within minimal volumetric measure. We introduce the Gyrobifastigium as the fundamental space-filling unit capable of mediating the geometric friction between the periodic dodecahedral vacuum and the aperiodic Einstein Monotile global structure. Finally, we map this geometric resolution onto a 3D temporal framework ($\tau$-space), where the "Big Bang" is redefined as a retrocausal pruning process of a "Nine-Tile" super-compatible state, effectively solving the universal NP-hard tiling problem of the vacuum through informational synchronization.

Abstract: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) produces severe problems with mood regulation, relationships and impulse control, yet its molecular basis has remained unclear because early genomic screens were too small to yield stable signals. Building on the most recent meta-analysis of genome-wide association data, with a cohort with schizophrenia and bipolar cases excluded, we re-examined the data with three complementary tools: (i) MAGMA for gene-set enrichment, (ii) linkage-disequilibrium score regression for partitioned heritability and (iii) transcriptome-wide association studies for imputed brain expression. Two a priori biological themes were tested through custom gene panels: glutamatergic synaptic plasticity and complement-mediated synaptic pruning.Across all three analytic layers, glutamate-related plasticity genes showed reproducible enrichment—1.2- to 1.5-fold increases in heritability and false-discovery-rate-adjusted p values below 0.05. Directionally, risk alleles tended to raise expression of excitatory receptor subunits (for example, GRIA1, GRIN3B) while lowering expression of scaffolding or trophic genes (for example, DLG2, NGF). In contrast, pruning panels, including a refined set with glutamatergic overlap removed, displayed no comparable signal.Taken together, the findings argue against a primary role for excessive synaptic pruning in BPD and instead point to bidirectionally disrupted NMDA/AMPA-dependent plasticity within limbic–prefrontal circuits. A model centred on malleability—rather than elimination—of synapses may account for the emotional learning deficits and interpersonal hypersensitivity that typify the disorder. This framework generates testable predictions for imaging-genetics work and suggests that therapies aimed at normalizing glutamatergic plasticity could prove beneficial.

Abstract: Gravitational force is extremely important because it dominates the formation and evolution of the universe. However, its physical origin and intrinsic qualities have not been clearly understood for a long time. Certain observed phenomena, along with those newly discovered by the Hubble and James Webb telescopes, cannot be well explained by existing theories. Furthermore, general relativity and quantum mechanics, which are the current mainstream theories explaining gravitational force, are incompatible with each other. This situation strongly points to the need for a better or even novel theory of gravitational force. Here, based on the classical space-time perspective, a different yet robust understanding of gravitational force is introduced. The author has realized that gravitational force originates from none other than the electric force. But it is a synthetic electric force produced by a large number of electric charges, including both of positive and negative charges, and thus shows very different characteristics from a simple electric force caused by either positive or negative charges. In any object, there are a large number of free and inducible net electric charges. Due to various macroscopic and microscopic reasons, the electric charge distribution in any object is non-uniform and directional, since in most cases, the centers of positive and negative charges of this non-uniform distribution cannot be exactly at the same point. Thus, almost any object becomes an electric dipole inherently. When an object exists independently, its dipole direction is randomly oriented, resulting in its overall electrical neutrality statistically. However, when two objects interact, their charge distributions change under the influence of the electric field generated by the opposing object's internal charges. This change intensifies through continuous interactions, eventually aligning dipole directions of two objects along a line. Furthermore, through a dynamically self-calibrating process, the directions of two objects’ dipoles can always point toward each other, regardless of whether the two objects are stationary, moving, or orbiting each other. Therefore, although the force direction of an electric dipole is anisotropic, because the dipole direction, determined by directional non-uniform charge distribution, can change dynamically and quickly, an object’s dipole can always maintain attraction to other object’s dipole, similar to an object exhibiting isotropic attraction to another object. The multiple electric dipoles, or even multiple groups of electric dipoles can mutually attract each other too, since multiple dipoles or multiple dipole groups can have a combined directional non-uniform charge distribution too. This is the true origin of gravitational force. Calculations have shown that, under certain conditions, the strength change rate of gravitational force deduced from the dipole model theory closely follows the law of inverse square of distance. This understanding can effectively explain observed phenomena, including confusing ones, such as flat galaxies, filamentary nebulae, the formation of the Solar System and the Milky Way galaxy, the unusual trajectories of ‘Oumuamua and 3I/ATLAS, as well as dark matter and dark energy. This understanding also naturally unifies gravitational and electromagnetic forces and opens a key door for the final unification of the four fundamental forces of nature.

Abstract: Background: Adult growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is linked to increased cardio-vascular and metabolic risk due to oxidative stress (OS), endothelial dysfunction, and adverse body composition. Long-term systemic effects of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy remain insufficiently defined. This study assessed the impact of 24-month rhGH replacement on OS, vascular markers, body composition, and bone mineral density (BMD) in adults with severe GHD. Methods: Fifteen adults with confirmed GHD received rhGH for 24 months. Serum insulin-like growth factor -1 (IGF-1), oxidized LDL (Ox-LDL), thioredoxin (Trx), 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1), E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 were meas-ured at baseline, 12, and 24 months. Body composition and BMD were evaluated by DXA. Results: IGF-1 increased significantly at 12 and 24 months (p < 0.001). Ox-LDL decreased markedly (p < 0.00001), while Trx and OGG1 increased (p < 0.05). Levels of E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 declined, indicating improved endothelial function. Lean body mass and BMD (lumbar spine and femoral neck) increased, whereas body fat percentage decreased. Lipid profiles were unchanged. Significant correlations were observed be-tween vascular markers and adiposity, and between BMD, triglycerides, and IGF-1. Conclusion: A 24-month rhGH therapy improves redox balance, vascular function, and body composition in adults with severe GHD, supporting the use of redox and vascular biomarkers to monitor treatment efficacy.

Abstract: We apply the mathematical framework of Painlev\'e monodromy manifolds and WKB asymptotic analysis to analyze structural dynamics of multipolar transitions, demonstrating both topological constraints and quantitative crisis prediction. The framework models major power configurations as Riemann surfaces with holes (stable centers) and bordered cusps (instability points), where confluence operations correspond to geopolitical transitions. Historical analysis reveals the interwar period (1918--1945) as a confluence cascade: PVI (post-Versailles multipolar order) $\to$ PV bifurcation (1930--1933) $\to$ P$_V^{\text{deg}}$ deceptive simplification (1933--1936) $\to$ P$_{\text{II}}^{FN}$ three-theater global war (1941--1945). The P$_V^{\text{deg}}$ path was most dangerous because apparent stability masked geometric necessity driving toward crisis multiplication. WKB analysis validates this structure: crisis frequency during both interwar and contemporary (2001--2024) periods follows predicted $f \propto 1/\sqrt{\Delta}$ scaling (with correlation factor $r = 0.89$ and $r = 0.74$ respectively), where $\Delta(t)$ measures the power gap between hegemon and challenger. The contemporary system (2024--2025) exhibits similar PV configuration. Quantitative projections indicate critical transition 2030--2033 when crisis frequency exceeds 2.5/year (terminal instability threshold), with collapse window 2032--2036 where systemic discontinuity becomes likely (probability $>$70\% based on interwar precedent). Three trajectories remain accessible: (1) PIII managed regional competition (geometrically stable but low probability 15--25\%), (2) P$_V^{\text{deg}}$ apparent simplification leading to P$_{\text{II}}^{FN}$ within 5--10 years (moderate-high probability 40--50\%), or (3) PIV immediate escalation (moderate probability 25--35\%). Policy implications: (1) pursue PIII sphere-of-influence arrangements during 2024--2030 window, (2) recognize P$_V^{\text{deg}}$ as unstable trap not strategic success, (3) prepare comprehensively for P$_{\text{II}}^{FN}$ three-theater crisis if cascade unavoidable, and (4) implement real-time monitoring of power gap $\Delta(t)$ and crisis frequency $f(t)$ with defined decision triggers. The framework provides quantitative early warning (6--10 years advance notice) unavailable in traditional geopolitical forecasting, enabling continuous validation and strategic adjustment.

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to examine the validity of a Garmin wrist-based device for estimating heart rate, energy expenditure, and step count during incremental treadmill exercise in college-aged individuals. Eighteen males and females (mean ± SD age = 23.2 ± 4.9 years) volunteered to complete an incremental treadmill test with the Garmin Vivoactive 4 device and criterion methods (electrocardiogram, indirect calorimetry, and video recording) measuring heart rate, energy expenditure, and step count. Mean absolute percent error (MAPE), simple linear regression, and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess accuracy. Acceptable accuracy was defined as MAPE < 5% for heart rate and < 10% for energy expenditure and step count. Statistical significance was set at α < 0.05. The MAPE (±SD) values were 13.0 (±10.1), 19.1 (±15.0), and 4.6 (±5.3)% for heart rate, energy expenditure, and step count, respectively. The Bland-Altman regression analyses illustrated proportional bias was present for estimations of heart rate (r = 0.591, p < 0.001) and step count (r = 0.516, p = 0.028), but not energy expenditure (r = 0.351, p = 0.153). These findings indicated that the Garmin Vivoactive 4 provided acceptable accuracy metrics for step count, but not heart rate or energy expenditure.

Abstract: Background: microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally and are now recognized as central players in tumorigenesis, progression, and therapeutic resistance. Their remarkable stability in body fluids and close integration with oncogenic and tumor-suppressive pathways have positioned miRNAs as promising diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers across diverse cancers. However, the dual and context-dependent nature of many miRNAs, together with methodological heterogeneity, complicates their translation into routine clinical practice.Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science from 1993 to June 2025 to identify peer-reviewed studies evaluating miRNAs in human cancers. Articles were included if they investigated miRNAs in relation to cancer biology, biomarker potential (diagnostic, prognostic, or predictive), metastasis and EMT, the tumor microenvironment, or therapeutic modulation. Mechanistic, translational, and clinical studies were all considered. Data were extracted on cancer type, sample source, miRNAs studied, assay methods, clinical associations, and functional validation. Due to heterogeneity in design and reporting, a narrative thematic synthesis was undertaken rather than meta-analysis.Results: Evidence across multiple malignancies shows that specific miRNAs function as oncomiRs, promoting proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, immune evasion, and metastasis (for example, miR-21, miR-155, miR-10b, and the miR-17-92 cluster), while others act as tumor-suppressor miRNAs, constraining oncogenic signalling, cell-cycle progression, and metastatic spread (for example, miR-34a, miR-126, miR-145, miR-124, miR-15a/16-1, and the miR-200 family). Distinct expression signatures have been associated with early-stage disease, advanced stage, and metastatic patterns in solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Circulating and exosomal miRNAs show high stability and have demonstrated potential for non-invasive cancer detection, risk stratification, and monitoring of treatment response. Several miRNAs correlate with survival outcomes and resistance to chemotherapy, targeted agents, and immunotherapies. Preclinical models support miRNA-based therapies, including mimics to restore tumor-suppressor miRNAs and inhibitors (antagomirs) to silence oncomiRs, with emerging delivery platforms such as nanoparticles and engineered exosomes.Conclusion: microRNAs (miRNAs) emerge as integrative cancer biomarkers that reflect underlying genetic, epigenetic, and microenvironmental complexity. Current evidence indicates their potential to improve early detection, refine prognostic stratification, and inform therapeutic decision-making. However, heterogeneity in analytical methods, reference standards, and study design, together with the dual and context-dependent functions of individual miRNAs, limits comparability and hinders routine clinical adoption. Progress will depend on rigorous assay standardization, harmonized reporting, and validation of candidate miRNAs and panels in large, prospective, multi-centre cohorts. Integrating miRNA profiles with other molecular and clinical data, and advancing safe, effective miRNA-based therapeutics, will be essential to translate this promising biomarker class into tangible benefits for patients.

Abstract: The Earth flyby anomaly—a small, unexplained residual in spacecraft velocity—remains a persistent challenge in astrodynamics. While the empirical Anderson relation captures the general trend of reported anomalies, it does not account for the suppressed or near-null results observed in several later flybys. Here we construct a geometry-aware, Earth-fixed coupling proxy based on distance-weighted surface visibility over a land-sea distribution mask. We identify a robust sign structure across the primary flyby set that remains stable under variations in weighting choice and integration window. The results indicate that Earth-fixed asymmetry acts as a modulation of the Anderson prediction rather than as an independent force, offering a potential pathway for reconciling discrepancies in anomaly magnitude.

Abstract: Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an acute, notifiable emerging arthropod-borne disease with epidemic and zoonotic potential. It poses a significant threat to public health, livestock, and food security in some African countries, including Nigeria. A phlebovirus causes RVF, a large group of RNA viruses of the family Bunyaviridae with potential for international spread and bioterrorism. RVF virus can infect several domestic and wild animals as well as humans. It is transmitted through direct contact with infected blood or body fluids, animal tissue, infected mosquito bites, etc. In humans, RVF is mostly associated with mild flu-like symptoms, which may develop into severe symptoms including encephalitis, hepatic disease, and hemorrhagic fever, while in animals, it causes high rates of abortion and perinatal mortality. Limited information is available in Nigeria on RVF. To gain a better understanding of the infection in livestock, we screened 368 sera collected at slaughter from cattle (n = 184) and camels (n = 184) at Kano abattoir between May and June 2022 for RVF virus antibodies. The sera were analysed using a commercial ELISA kit. Among the samples examined, female animals constituted the largest at 69.02% (254/368), compared to males at 30.97% (114/368). An overall seropositivity rate of 8.15% (30/368, CI: 5.67-11.29) was recorded. The seropositivity was higher in cattle, 8.69% (16/184, CI: 5.233-13.45), than in camels, 7.60% (14/184, CI: 4.396-12.15). Based on sex, seropositivity was slightly higher in female animals, at 8.27% (21/254, CI: 5.33-12.15), compared to males, at 7.89% (9/114, CI: 3.19-13.99). Our findings revealed that cattle and dromedary camels presented for slaughter in the Kano abattoir, northern Nigeria, have evidence of exposure to RVF virus. This may be a potential risk to humans working at the abattoir and other animal populations. A One-Health investigation is recommended to understand the risk factors, associated vectors, and human exposure to the virus to mitigate the health and socioeconomic threats posed by RVF in the region.

Abstract: Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for localized prostate cancer delivers high doses per fraction, making dose constraints to the rectum and other organs at risk critical during treatment planning. This study evaluated the association between prostate-rectum separation achieved with a biodegradable balloon rectal spacer at different anatomical levels and corresponding organ-at-risk dose patterns. Thirty-three patients underwent transperineal balloon spacer implantation followed by SBRT to 36.25 Gy in five fractions. Prostate-rectum separation at the apex, midgland, and base was measured on CT and/or MRI and categorized as < 10 mm, 10-14 mm, or ≥14 mm. Rectal dose-volume parameters and mean doses to the rectum, bladder, and penile bulb were assessed using linear regression analyses and group comparisons at 14 mm separation. Mean prostate-rectum separation was 16.6 mm overall, with minimal high-dose rectal exposure observed. Increasing separation was associated with reduced rectal dose-volume parameters at the apex and midgland, while greater base separation corresponded primarily to lower bladder mean dose. Increased apical separation was also associated with reduced penile bulb mean dose. No acute gastrointestinal toxicity was observed, and genitourinary toxicity was limited to low-grade events. These findings indicate that prostate-rectum separation varies by anatomical level and is associated with distinct organ-at-risk dose relationships in prostate SBRT.

Abstract: Splicing defects represent a significant class of human genetic disorders, yet strategies to directly correct aberrant splice-site recognition remain limited. The small nuclear RNA U1 plays a critical role in pre-messenger RNA splicing by base-pairing with the conserved 5′ splice-site ‘GU’ dinucleotide. Disruption of this interaction can lead to abnormal splicing or frameshift mutations, contributing to disease pathology. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can transport small, essential molecules to a cell for therapeutic applications. Thus, EVs were transfected with a U1 small nuclear RNA expression construct, resulting in approximately 120 nm diameter vesicles whose identity and purity were confirmed by the expression of several exosomal markers. When applied to HeLa cells expressing a β-globin minigene bearing a β-thalassaemia-like 5′ splice-site mutation, U1-enriched EVs corrected up to sixty percent of normal exon–intron junction recognition in a dose-dependent manner. Recovery was abolished by heat or RNase treatment, confirming that intact vesicular RNA cargo was essential for activity. These findings provide the first demonstration that EVs can transport spliceosomal small nuclear RNAs capable of reconstituting splice-site recognition in recipient cells and introduce a new class of RNA-based therapeutics that exploit the natural cargo-shuttling capacity of EVs to correct splicing defects associated with genetic disease.

Abstract: Background: Dementia and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) represent two of the most pressing global public health challenges of our time, both exacerbated by physical inactivity. These conditions disproportionately affect Global Majority populations, who experience earlier onset, higher prevalence, and poorer access to culturally appropriate preventive care. However, conventional research and interventions often overlook the sociocultural and structural factors that underpin this disparity. This study synthesises current evidence to understand how these three conditions intersect and to identify equitable pathways for prevention and support. Methods: A meta-narrative review approach was employed, guided by the framework of Greenhalgh et al. (2005), to integrate evidence from diverse research traditions. Databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched. Five meta-narratives were identified: biomedical and epidemiological, public health, health disparities, sociocultural and behavioural, and intervention science. Cross-narrative synthesis produced a conceptual framework linking upstream determinants, lifestyle factors, and disease outcomes. Results: The review revealed that structural inequities such as deprivation, environmental barriers and sociocultural factors including stigma, gendered norms, limited access to culturally appropriate facilities that restrict physical activity (PA) opportunities within Global Majority communities. These constraints elevate T2D and dementia risk through biological pathways involving insulin resistance, vascular injury, and neuroinflammation. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) interventions particularly those delivered in trusted cultural, or faith settings emerged as effective strategies to improve PA, glycaemic control, and cognitive wellbeing. Conclusion: This synthesis reframes dementia and diabetes as interlinked within a wider syndemic driven by structural and sociocultural inequities. The proposed framework underscores the importance of culturally grounded, community-led approaches to promote brain health, reduce risk, and achieve equitable healthy ageing among Global Majority populations.

Abstract:

The article presents a technology for the physical recycling of printed circuit boards (PCBs) that is consistent with the principles of circular economy and sustainable production. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was performed for PCB recycling using shredding, grinding and physical and physicochemical processes such as electrostatic separation, gravity separation and flotation for the separation of metals and plastics. On the basis of this assessment and the selectivity criterion, electrostatic separation was found to be the best separation method used after shredding and cryogenic grinding. Furthermore, the financial potential of recycling and other benefits that recycling can bring to the economics of the business and to the protection of the environment were presented. The possibility of using non-metallic fraction (plastic) generated during the recycling as an additive in the production of composite materials was assessed. The functional properties of the composite were assessed (static tensile, hardness, pin-on-disc, and Schopper-Schlobach abrasion tests), as well as the ecotoxicity of the powder added to polymeric materials such as polyester and epoxy resins, and silicone, used in the production of consumer goods.