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Background/Aim. The etiology of polyneuropathy (PNP) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is unclear, and there is a possible association between levodopa therapy, hyperhomocysteinemia, and PNP development due to methylation processes involving vitamin B12 and folic acid. The aim of this study was to analyze the difference in clinical presentation and disease severity between PD patients with and without PNP and to evaluate blood levels of vitamin B12, homocysteine, and folic acid in these patients. Methods. This cross-sectional study included 200 consecutive patients diagnosed with PD, divided into two groups: those with PNP and those without PNP. Diagnosis of PNP was confirmed by electromyoneurography. The first group consisted of 50 patients with PD with confirmed PNP, and the second 50 patients with PD without PNP. All patients were receiving levodopa therapy. Laboratory tests analyzed vitamin B12, folic acid, and homocysteine levels. Results. Patients with PNP were older when PNP was diagnosed (71 vs. 66 years, p < 0.0001), without differences in duration of levodopa therapy (p = 0.359) or daily dose (p = 0.442), and with significant motor impairment according to Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III (p = 0.017). No difference was found between groups for vitamin B12 (p = 1.0), folic acid (p = 0.124), and homocysteine (p = 0.313) serum levels. Conclusion. PD patients with PNP have a more pronounced motor deficit, while differences in vitamin B12, homocysteine, and folic acid values compared to the group without PNP were not registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seed industry is essentially based on the production of quality seeds with high germination and vigour percentages and for that reason the aim of this study was to point out the most important factors that affect seed vigour. This study shows an overview of the development of seed vigour tests throughout history. Seed vigour is affected by many environmental factors, as well as genetic factors, of which the chemical composition of seeds, hardheadedness and resistance to disease-producing agents express positive effects. Special attention is paid to the role of phytohormones, such as abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellin (GA), in regulating seed dormancy and their interaction with environmental factors, including temperature, light and moisture. The research results reveal a complex network of interactions among genetic factors, phytohormones and environmental conditions that mutually modulate the degree of seed dormancy and its impact on germination and seed vigour. Experimental data show that the application of certain agrochemical treatments can change the level of phytohormones and consequently alter the rate of seed dormancy and germination. Further research of these mechanisms will reveal prospects for the development of innovative technologies for the improvement of the seed industry as an inseparable part of agricultural production. This study provides a deeper understanding of the regulation of seed vigour and, also identifies new approaches to the improvement of plant production in accordance with the demands of contemporary agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenine nucleotides (ANs)—adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)—are essential for energy transfer and the supply of countless processes within cellular metabolism. Their concentrations can be expressed as adenylate energy charge (AEC), a measure of cellular metabolic energy that directly correlates with the homeostasis of the organism. AEC index has broad diagnostic potential, as reduced ATP levels are associated to various conditions, such as inflammatory diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. We introduce a novel methodology for rapid isolation, purification, and quantification of ANs from a single drop of capillary blood. Of all the stationary phases tested, activated carbon proved to be the most efficient for the purification of adenine nucleotides, using an automated micro-solid phase extraction (µ-SPE) platform. An optimized µ-SPE method, coupled with RP-HPLC and a run time of 30 min, provides a reliable analytical framework for adenine nucleotide analysis of diverse biological samples. AN concentrations measured in capillary blood samples were 1393.1 µM, 254.8 µM, and 76.9 µM for ATP, ADP, and AMP molecules aligning with values reported in the literature. Overall, this study presents a streamlined and precise approach for analyzing ANs from microliters of blood, offering promising applications in clinical diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemoglobin and red blood cells (erythrocytes) have been studied extensively from the perspective of life and biomedical sciences. However, no analysis of hemoglobin and red blood cells from the perspective of chemical thermodynamics has been reported in the literature. Such an analysis would provide an insight into their structure and turnover from the aspect of biothermodynamics and bioenergetics. In this paper, a biothermodynamic analysis was made of hemoglobin and red blood cells. Molecular formulas, empirical formulas, biosynthesis reactions, and thermodynamic properties of formation and biosynthesis were determined for the alpha chain, beta chain, heme B, hemoglobin and red blood cells. Empirical formulas and thermodynamic properties of hemoglobin were compared to those of other biological macromolecules, which include proteins and nucleic acids. Moreover, the energetic requirements of biosynthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells were analyzed. Based on this, a discussion was made of the specific structure of red blood cells (i.e. no nuclei nor organelles) and its role as an evolutionary adaptation for more energetically efficient biosynthesis needed for the turnover of red blood cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A myriad of diverse factors affect the contemporary business environment and all business areas, causing organisations to innovate new business models, or to use innovations to navigate the complexity of contemporary HRM practice successfully. Despite the plenitude of notable studies, a particular theoretical gap exists regarding the innovation's impact on particular HRM practices and on understanding how multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods can be effectively applied in the context of human resource management (HRM) to address important aspects of successful practices and prioritise the considered alternative solutions. Recognising the potential of the MCDM field highlighted the possibility of involving the MCDM methods in detecting the most influential and innovative HRM practices and defining the rank of companies that are most successful in applying them. The innovative MCDM approach proposed here utilises the CRITIC (CRiteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation) method and PIPRECIA-S (Simple PIvot Pairwise RElative Criteria Importance Assessment) method for prioritising innovative HRM practices, and the COBRA (COmprehensive Distance Based RAnking) method for assessing the companies under evaluation. The research, which involved 21 respondent experts from the HRM field and 12 companies from the Republic of Serbia, revealed that employee participation is the most significant innovative HRM practice that yields the best results in the contemporary business environment. Consequently, the first-ranked company most successfully met the requirements of the innovative HRM practices presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study are presented the possibilities of using maize silage for biogas production. An experiment with maize silage took place over three years (2016–2018) in two localities, Ilandža, Alibunar municipality (L1—Locality 1) and Dolovo (L2—Locality 2), Serbia, and using two variants: a control with no digestate (C) and a variant with digestate, which was organic manure from biogas facilities (AD). In the AD variant, 50 t ha−1 of digestate was introduced into the soil just before sowing the maize. The following traits were examined: plant height (PH), biomass yield (BMY), biogas yield (BGY), and methane yield (MY). The effects of the studied factors (year, fertilization, and locality) on the biogas yield were significant (p < 0.5). The most favorable year for biogas production was 2016 (207.95 m3 ha−1), while the highest values of maize plant height, biomass, and methane yield were recorded in 2018 (2.48 m, 51.15 t ha−1 dry matter, and 258.25 m3 ha−1). The digestate exerted a significant influence (p < 0.5) on the values of all the tested maize parameters in all three experimental years. The biomass yield was positively associated with the plant height, biogas, and methane yield (r = 0.62 *; r = 0.70 *; r = 0.81 **) and positively but nonsignificantly associated with temperature (r = 0.42) and precipitation (r = 0.12). The application of the digestate before sowing improves the anaerobic digestion of maize silage and biogas production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Early diagnosis of amelanotic cutaneous melanoma metastases (ACMM) represents a great challenge and is essential for determining the stage, treatment, and prognosis of the disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the vascular structures and their arrangement and frequency in ACMM. Methods. The study was conducted as a prospective, descriptive, multicenter study of pathohistologically confirmed ACMM. Results. The study included a total of 52 ACMM from 17 patients (8 men and 9 women, with an age range of 32-91 years, median 63.12 years) with a previous history of primary melanoma. The most prevalent were elevated ACMM - 39 (75.0%) lesions, while 13 (25.0%) ACMM were flat. Linear irregular blood vessels were statistically significantly more often associated with elevated ACMM, compared to flat ACMM (92.3% vs. 50.0%, p < 0.001). Dotted blood vessels were statistically significantly more frequent in flat ACMM, compared to elevated ACMM (76.9% vs. 28.2%, p = 0.003). Diffuse distribution of blood vessels was the most prevalent, with 92.3% of flat ACMM and 76.9% of elevated ACMM (p = 0.416). Peripheral arrangement of blood vessels was detected in 15.4% of elevated ACMM and 7.7% of flat ACMM (p = 0.815). The central arrangement of blood vessels was seen in 2.6%, while the cluster (segmental) schedule was present in 5.1% of elevated ACMM. The monomorphic vascular pattern was the predominant pattern in 84.6% of flat ACMM and 61.5% of elevated ACMM (p = 0.232). Conclusion. Our study supports the finding that linear irregular blood vessels are more commonly associated with elevated ACMM, while the dotted ones are dominant in flat ACMM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of drug‐resistant viruses and novel strains necessitates the rapid development of novel antiviral therapies. This need was particularly demanding during the COVID‐19 pandemic. While de novo drug development is a time‐consuming process, repurposing existing approved medications offers a more expedient approach. In our prior in silico screening of the DrugBank database, fidaxomicin emerged as a potential SARS‐CoV‐2 papain‐like protease inhibitor. This study extends those findings by investigating fidaxomicin's antiviral properties in vitro. Our results support further exploration of fidaxomicin as a therapeutic candidate against SARS‐CoV‐2, given its promising in vitro antiviral activity and favorable safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new non-linear stationary process for time series of counts is introduced. The process is composed of the survival and innovation component. The survival component is based on the generalized zero-modified geometric thinning operator, where the innovation process figures in the survival component as well. A few probability distributions for the innovation process have been discussed, in order to adjust the model for observed series with the excess number of zeros. The conditional maximum likelihood and the conditional least squares methods are investigated for the estimation of the model parameters. The practical aspect of the model is presented on some real-life data sets, where we observe data with inflation as well as deflation of zeroes so we can notice how the model can be adjusted with the proper parameter selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial objects, particularly tunnels used for water transport under pressure, impact the geological and hydrogeological environment to a greater or lesser extent, and it is vital to assess their contributions to groundwater quality. Although tunnels are typically lined with concrete, their interaction with the hydrogeological environment intensifies over time. In this study, the detailed spatiotemporal monitoring of all hydrogeological features within the potential influence zone of the hydraulic tunnel of the Pirot Hydropower Plant has been conducted in order to determine the degree of interaction between the artificial object and the natural environment in real time, and to assess the correlation between monitored parameters. Natural conditions of the environment were defined, as well as potential changes through the observing groundwater regimes. The monitoring network included observations of groundwater regimes at seven springs located in close proximity to the hydraulic tunnel, within the tunnel, at three piezometers, and along the river, while methods employed were hydrological monitoring, physicochemical monitoring, and groundwater piezometer sensing. Cross-correlation analysis has been applied for assessing the impact of precipitation dynamics on the spring discharge regime. The results indicate a direct influence of the tunnel on the hydrogeological environment, proving the consistency and high correlation between the monitored parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful endodontic treatment implies that the materials for obturation remain in the tissue, if possible forever. It is therefore essential to know the long-term effects of materials on tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the histological response of bone tissue to the implanted dimethylpolysiloxane-based material in the artificially prepared defect. The sample comprised 20 Wistar rats. The defect was formed in the mandible of rats by sterile stainless steel burs. Dimethylpolysiloxane-based sealer (Roeko Seal) was implanted in the defects of the experimental group while the defects of the control group were left to heal spontaneously. Half of the animals from both groups were put down after thirty days, whereas the other half was euthanized after ninety days. Microscopic preparations were analyzed by light microscope. A fibrous callus and a young bone were observed thirty days after the implantation. Ninety days after the implantation, the bone around the unabsorbed material was completely healed. Roeko Seal does not decelerate the healing of bone tissue, it enables complete healing of tissue around the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. The most important moment in modern endodontics is the inclusion of rotating instruments made of nickel-titanium alloy in daily clinical work, which have supplanted stainless steel instruments due to their superior properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of autoclave sterilization on cyclic fatigue (CF) in two types of rotating instruments produced by M-wire technology with different types of rotation. Methods. This research included two types of M-wire rotary instruments -- 48 ProTaper Next® instruments with full rotation and 48 WaveOne® Gold instruments with reciprocating rotation. Each of the two groups of instruments was divided into four additional groups of 12 instruments depending on the number of cycles of sterilization in the autoclave. The instruments were tested in an artificial canal with a 2 and 5 mm radius of curvature. Results. Statistically significantly higher resistance to CF was observed with WaveOne® Gold compared to ProTaper Next® (p < 0.001) instruments, both in the non-sterilized group and after their exposure to the first, third, and fifth cycle of sterilization. The third and fifth cycle of sterilization significantly reduced resistance to CF in the WaveOne® Gold (p < 0.001) group. There was no statistically significant difference in CF resistance between sterilized and non-sterilized instruments of the ProTaper Next® group. Conclusion. Sterilization in an autoclave for instruments based on M-wire technology did not increase resistance to CF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sardines and anchovies are the most important small pelagic species throughout the Mediterranean, caught mainly by purse-seiners. Their rapid bacterial degradation after capture and storage limits their commercial use and shelf life. Gills are the most vulnerable tissue in fish, harboring bacterial communities which have not been previously investigated in these species. This study examined cultivable bacteria from gills of harvested sardines and anchovies, tanks in which they are stored aboard, and fishing nets on four occasions (twice for both warm and cold seasons). A total of 471 bacteria were isolated, belonging to 74 genera and 163 species by MALDI-TOF MS identification. A number of genera and species identified from fish and surfaces occurred only in the warm or cold season, but a fraction occurred in both seasons. Sardine gills harbored most of the isolated bacteria (254), belonging to 53 genera and 111 species, as opposed to anchovy with 120 strains, belonging to 30 genera and 64 species. A diverse cultivable bacterial community consisting of 17 species was isolated exclusively from the polyethylene surfaces of nets and tanks. This finding is significant regarding their potential migrations between planktonic and sessile lifestyles. Possible contamination and cross-contamination are likely to increase with the rise in ambient and seawater temperature during the hauling and sorting of fish in the tanks. The food safety risks stem from pathogens and fish spoilage bacteria on both the fish and the surfaces of fishing nets and storage tanks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Similarly to a phoenix, SARS-CoV-2 has appeared periodically in waves. The new variants that appeared through mutations have suppressed earlier variants, causing new waves of the pandemic. The Omicron BA.2.86 Pirola variant is the latest in the sequence. An increased infectivity was noticed, which results in rapid spreading, as well as decreased pathogenicity, which results in a lower number of severe cases. However, in the public there is a fear of further development of the epidemic. This analysis was made with the goal to assess the risks in the period of early 2024. Mutations that were developed by the BA.2.86 variant have led to a change in empirical formula and thermodynamic properties. The empirical formula of the BA.2.86 virus particle is CH1.639023O0.284130N0.230031P0.006440S0.003765. It is different than those of other variants of SARS-CoV-2, other virus species and cellular organisms. The driving force for the virus multiplication, Gibbs energy change of biosynthesis of the BA.2.86 variant is -221.75 kJ C-mol-1. It is more negative than that of its host tissue. According to the biosynthesis phenomenological equation, the more negative Gibbs energy change of biosynthesis allows the virus to achieve a greater biosynthesis rate and hijack the host cell metabolism. However, the Gibbs energy change of biosynthesis of the BA.2.86 variant is similar to those of the CH.1.1 and XBB.1.16 variants. This means that these variants should have similar multiplication rates and thus similar pathogenicity. Therefore, it seems that there is no ground for fear of an extensive spreading of severe forms, but there are reasons for caution and monitoring of the spreading of the epidemic and potential appearance of new mutations. Moreover, unlike the earlier pandemic waves, during the newest pandemic wave, the infections with influenza, RSV and BA.2.86 variant simultaneously appeared, which deserves an analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alginate is a naturally occurring polymer derived from brown algae biomass, which has numerous applications in various fields. Chemical modification of alginate is widely used to improve alginate's physicochemical properties and provide new potential for multiple applications. In this article, we modified alginate with L-DOPA, using periodate oxidation and reductive amination, to obtain more suitable biopolymer for biocatalyst immobilization and hydrogel formation. Obtained modified alginate was used for the immobilization of laccase on cell walls. For this purpose, laccase from Streptomyces cyaneus was expressed on the surface of Saccharomyces cerevisiae EBY100 cells. The obtained cell wall laccase was immobilized within L-DOPA-alginate beads by crosslinking the L-DOPA-alginate with calcium ions and laccase. The effect of additional crosslinking of beads by green light-induced photopolymerization with eosin Y was investigated. The immobilized laccase systems were used for dye decolorization and investigated in multiple treatment processes. Beads with L-DOPA-alginate with a higher degree of modification (5.0 mol%) showed higher enzymatic activity and better decolorization efficiency than those with a lower degree of modification (2.5 mol%). Obtained immobilized biocatalysts are suitable for decolorizing dye Evans Blue due to their high efficiency and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to detect and correlate anticancer effects of metformin in combinations with other repurposed drugs, already registered for other indications, which may be immediately applied and clinically investigated in oncology, reducing the time and cost of research for new cancer treatments. Immunohistochemistry was performed for tumors treated by dual drug combinations containing metformin with deoxycholic acid, caffeine, itraconazole, nitroglycerin, disulfiram or diclofenac. The drugs were applied in Syrian golden hamsters (6 animals per group) with the inoculated BHK21/C13 fibrosarcoma in doses equivalent to usual human doses, <50 % LD50. The anticancer effects were assessed by: p53 (mutational status); Ki-67 and PCNA (tumor proliferation); CD34 and CD31 (neoangiogenesis); GLUT1 (glucose metabolism); iNOS (NO metabolism); COX4, Cytochrome C and caspase 3 (apoptosis); immunohistochemical markers. Also, biophysical characteristics of fibrosarcoma, animal blood samples and the toxicity on main organs were analyzed. Treatments significantly (P < 0.05) reduced mutational status, tumor proliferation, neoangiogenesis, glucose metabolism, NO metabolism and modulated apoptosis, in correlation with tumor size, without toxicity and influence on biochemical blood and hematological tests. The administration of metformin in two-drug combination with deoxycholic acid, caffeine, itraconazole, nitroglycerin, disulfiram or diclofenac may be recommended for further clinical investigations in oncology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular differentiation allows cells to transition between different functional states and adapt to various environmental cues. The diversity and plasticity of this process is beautifully exemplified by T cells responding to pathogens, which undergo highly specialized differentiation tailored to the ongoing infection. Such antigen‐induced T cell differentiation is regulated at the transcriptional level by DNA‐binding proteins and at the post‐transcriptional level by RNA‐binding proteins. Although traditionally defined as separate protein classes, a growing body of evidence indicates an overlap between these two groups of proteins, collectively coined DNA/RNA‐binding proteins (DRBPs). In this review, we describe how DRBPs might bind both DNA and RNA, discuss the putative functional relevance of this dual binding, and provide an exploratory analysis into characteristics that are associated with DRBPs. To exemplify the significance of DRBPs in T cell biology, we detail the activity of several established and putative DRBPs during the T cell response. Finally, we highlight several methodologies that allow untangling of the distinct functionalities of DRBPs at the DNA and RNA level, including key considerations to take into account when applying such methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to describe, analyse and compare Italian and Serbian object control verbs selecting an infinitival complement (or its finite equivalent). The overarching method employed is contrastive analysis. Using this method, Italian and Serbian verbs that belong to the class of interest are contrasted from a synchronic perspective, and are analysed within the theoretical framework of generative grammar. The main goal of the study is to formulate a classification system for the Italian and Serbian object control verbs taking an infinitival complement (or its finite equivalent). The following syntactic criteria are used as a basis for the classification: 1) a noun phrase functioning as a direct (accusative) object/a noun phrase or a prepositional phrase functioning as an indirect (dative) object, 2) presence/absence of a preposition preceding the infinitival complement, 3) compatibility/incompatibility with an anteriority reading of the action expressed by the complement verb, and 4) possibility/impossibility of using an alternative finite construction with a coreferential or a non-coreferential subject, with particular attention to the characteristics of the finite equivalent of the infinitive in Serbian - the construction da 'that' + (subjunctive non-mobile) present tense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the mental health challenges faced by pilots and air traffic controllers (ATCs), whose stressful professional lives may negatively impact global flight safety and security. The adverse effects of mental health disorders on their flight performance pose a particular safety risk, especially in sudden unexpected startle situations. Therefore, the early detection, prediction and prevention of mental health deterioration in pilots and ATCs, particularly among those at high risk, are crucial to minimize potential air crash incidents caused by human factors. Recent research in artificial intelligence (AI) demonstrates the potential of machine and deep learning, edge and cloud computing, virtual reality and wearable multimodal physiological sensors for monitoring and predicting mental health disorders. Longitudinal monitoring and analysis of pilots' and ATCs physiological, cognitive and behavioral states could help predict individuals at risk of undisclosed or emerging mental health disorders. Utilizing AI tools and methodologies to identify and select these individuals for preventive mental health training and interventions could be a promising and effective approach to preventing potential air crash accidents attributed to human factors and related mental health problems. Based on these insights, the article advocates for the design of a multidisciplinary mental healthcare ecosystem in modern aviation using AI tools and technologies, to foster more efficient and effective mental health management, thereby enhancing flight safety and security standards. This proposed ecosystem requires the collaboration of multidisciplinary experts, including psychologists, neuroscientists, physiologists, psychiatrists, etc. to address these challenges in modern aviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant segment within the sustainable development of agricultural production and economic prosperity is production in controlled conditions, such as production in greenhouses and glasshouses. In the Republic of Serbia, vegetable production is almost entirely concentrated on family farms. Considering the importance of family farms, the subject of this study is a comparative analysis of vegetable production on family farms and vegetable production in greenhouses, as well as open-air vegetable production. In this context, the paper presents two models for optimising the vegetable production structure, using the method of linear programming and the software package LINDO. The first model refers to vegetable production in greenhouses (variant I) and the second one is formulated for open-air vegetable production (variant II). The analysis and solving models have pointed to differences in the optimal sowing-planting structure, in the number of independent variables or vegetables included in models, but also in realised net income, wherein variant I achieves both higher net income per hectare and higher production economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has seen a rapid increase worldwide in recent decades, now recognised as a global health issue of the 21st century. Optimal, continuous control of hypertension represents a crucial part of treatment capable of slowing the progression of CKD. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that optimal regulation blood pressure control in patients with essential and secondary hypertension, along with CKD, slows the progression of CKD. Methods: The research was conducted at the University Clinical Centre of the Republic of Srpska, Banja Luka, Internal Clinic Nephrology Department. A retrospective-prospective study was blind for patients and lasted for 24 months. It included 97 patients, aged 18 and above, of both genders, hypertensive, in the 3rd or 4th stage of CKD (creatinine clearance of 15-59 mL/min). Assess the outcome of CKD, a "complex (undesirable) clinical outcome" was taken - one of three fundamental clinically undesirable events: double increase in serum creatinine values at the end of 24 months, onset of terminal renal insufficiency, or patient death. Patients were classified into three groups: I group - 30 patients with essential hypertension and CKD with optimally regulated blood pressure; II group - 32 patients with secondary hypertension and CKD with optimally regulated blood pressure; III control group - 35 patients with hypertension of various causes and CKD who did not achieve target blood pressure values. Blood pressure control was measured from month 0 to month 24 - once a month. Laboratory tests were taken every 3 months (red blood cells, haemoglobin, glycaemia, cholesterol, urea, creatinine, uric acid, sodium, potassium in serum and urine). Results: There was a highly statistically significant difference in glomerular filtration rate in the first group compared to the third group and in the second group compared to the third group. No statistically significant difference in glomerular filtration rate between the first and second groups was observed, where good blood pressure regulation was achieved. Conclusion: Optimal blood pressure control in the examined groups, regardless of the cause of CKD, was responsible for slowing the progression of CKD compared to the group with unregulated blood pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyzes texts about Montenegro of the Catholic Irish publicist Patrick Mac Swiney de Mashanaglass, who visited the country in 1899. He published two works about his experience and the information he collected: a travel account and a historical overview. The article discusses the motive for his arrival on the eastern Adriatic coast, the historical, political, and cultural context of this visit, and the factors that influenced the creation of a certain image of Montenegro in his works. Special attention is paid to the issues of the relationship between Montenegro and the Holy See, which Swiney analyzed from various standpoints, and which contributed to the growing interest in Catholic circles in the small Balkan principality. The key events in that sense were the signing and implementation of the Concordat between Montenegro and the Holy See, the first legal act of this type signed between the Vatican and an Orthodox country, and the political-religious problem that emerged around an institute in Rome dedicated to St Jerome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with the highest incidence in low-middle-income countries. Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) plays a significant role in diagnosing coronary artery disease. The aim of t he study was t o examine the influence of gender on the accuracy of DSE and on the prognostic significance of the left ventricular wall motion score index (WMSI) as a parameter of DSE for adverse cardiovascular events (ACEs). Methods. The prospective, observational study conducted at the Clinic for Cardiovascular Diseases of the University Clinical Center of the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina, included 143 patients who, due to suspicion of coronary disease, underwent a DSE from January 1, 2021, until February 1, 2022. ACEs that we observed one year after DSE were: unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary intervention, in-stent restenosis, aortocoronary bypass, heart failure, and death. Results. A positive DSE was more common in men (45%) compared to women (25%), which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The sensitivity of the test in men was 96.0%, and the specificity was 93.9%. In women, the sensitivity was 86.7%, and specificity was also 86.7%. ACEs were more frequent in men (43%) than in women (19%), which was statistically significant (p < 0.01). In men, WMSI had a sensitivity of 96.0% and a specificity of 82.4%. In women, WMSI had a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 90.6% in predicting ACEs. Conclusion. Our results confirmed the influence of gender on the accuracy o f D SE i n diagnosing coronary artery disease. WMSI as a parameter of DSE was identified as a significant prognostic factor for ACEs in both sexes, with the sensitivity being higher in men and specificity in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effectiveness in woody biomass utilization is highly dependent on its genetics and physiology. We performed morpho-anatomical, chemical, and biomethane productivity characterizations of one-year-old woody stems in three shrub Salix viminalis genotypes: a diploid (Energo) and its two autotetraploid derivatives (PP-E7 and PP-E13). Tetraploidization affected changes in stem morpho-anatomy and corresponding improved chemical features and biomethane productivity, considerably more pronounced in tetraploid PP-E13, while PP-E7 was more similar to diploid Energo. Compared to diploid Energo, in tetraploid PP-E13 morphometric analysis showed increased stem diameter and higher wood fiber radial double wall thickness, while microscopic analysis suggested higher syringyl to guaiacyl (S:G) ratio of the wood fiber cell wall. Presented changes in stem morpho-anatomy of tetraploid PP-E13 compared to diploid Energo correspond to the improved chemical features: the lower Klason lignin content and higher S:G ratio, the higher cellulose and xylan content, and lower cellulose crystallinity (Crl). Presented improved chemical features, along with the increase in ash content, resulted in a 7.3% (10.3 CH4 mL/g VS) increase in biomethane productivity in tetraploid PP-E13, compared to diploid Energo, suggesting tetraploid PP-E13 as an optimal raw material for fermentation technologies. In addition, besides the well-known chemical markers of willow biomass quality, the presented results highlight key stem morpho-anatomical parameters, which can serve as additional markers in energy willow improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we construct a new bivariate statistical distribution by the conditionally specified model approach. The conditional distributions follow the well-known generalized exponential distribution which includes the ordinary exponential distribution and is more flexible than gamma and Weibull in some ways. The newly defined distribution has four parameters that increase the flexibility of the model in data fitting. By equating the dependence parameter to zero, the marginal distributions become independent generalized exponential distributions. The new bivariate distribution depends on the classical exponential integral function which is not difficult to evaluate numerically. The basic properties of the distribution such as distribution functions, moments and stress-strength reliability are derived. The parameters are estimated by the method of maximum likelihood. Two real data fitting applications prove its usefulness in case of negatively correlated bivariate data modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature data emphasize that nanoparticles might improve the beneficial effects of near-infrared light (NIR) on wound healing. This study investigates the mechanisms of the synergistic wound healing potential of NIR light and silver metal–organic frameworks combined with nitrogen- and sulfur-doped carbon dots (AgMOFsN-CDs and AgMOFsS-CDs, respectively), which was conducted by testing the fibroblasts viability, scratch assays, biochemical analysis, and synchrotron-based Fourier transform infrared (SR-FTIR) cell spectroscopy and imaging. Our findings reveal that the combined treatment of AgMOFsN-CDs and NIR light significantly increases cell viability to nearly 150% and promotes cell proliferation, with reduced interleukin-1 levels, suggesting an anti-inflammatory response. SR-FTIR spectroscopy shows this combined treatment results in unique protein alterations, including increased α-helix structures and reduced cross-β. Additionally, protein synthesis was enhanced upon the combined treatment. The likely mechanism behind the observed changes is the charge-specific interaction of N-CDs from the AgMOFsN-CDs with proteins, enhanced by NIR light due to the nanocomposite's optical characteristics. Remarkably, the complete wound closure in the in vitro scratch assay was achieved exclusively with the combined NIR and AgMOFsN-CDs treatment, demonstrating the promising application of combined AgMOFsN-CDs with NIR light photodynamic therapy in regenerative nanomedicine and tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systems that are currently installed in autonomous vehicles are not designed to avoid obstacles on the road by manoeuvring at the limits of the vehicle and the road surface – the goal of the research presented was to develop such system. For these purposes, a universal test track based on ISO 3888-1 and ISO 3888-2 standards was adopted, which can be used to represent any situation in which there is an obstacle on the road in front of the vehicle that needs to be avoided. An analysis of the curves for generating the paths through the test track was carried out, on the basis of which the Bézier curves were chosen. In addition to them, the results of simulations in Adams Car software were used to generate the paths, which can be considered equivalent to real-world trials with a professional driver behind the wheel. A control model was developed for longitudinal and transverse control of the vehicle based on PID controllers, with the selection of optimal parameters – the ones that define PID controllers, and the others that define other characteristics of the model. The model proved to be successful in guiding the vehicle through the test track at all speeds at which manoeuvres are possible. Bézier curves are shown to be a better choice at lower speeds, while paths based on Adams Car simulations are a better choice at higher speeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern technologies continuously change humans and their relationship with the environment. They can achieve a lot in the field of chemical engineering, thereby improving and enhancing the quality of human life, but on the other hand, technologies can be used to destroy human lives. Technical and technological culture (hereinafter referred to as TTC) is the entirety of social achievements in the field of technical and technological sciences and their application, as well as of the all knowledge and skills needed to understand the achievements, use them correctly, transfer them to the younger generation and create new values in this field. This paper will present a pilot study aimed to examine the attitudes and beliefs of engineers, Technological (chemical engineering) and Technical faculties, regarding the development of TTC and to determine socio-demographic factors that may influence its development. The research was conducted in Serbia and Croatia. The results indicate that the most important aspects of TTC are: the development of awareness of sustainable development, the impact on environmental protection, etc. The respondents recognized the ethical challenges we face today, the need for the education of young engineers and the promotion of TTC in the media and professional public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Screening mammography is an imaging procedure which allows breast cancer detection in its early stage. The Breast Imaging and Reporting Data System (BI-RADS) determined six radiological categories for describing lesions. The core needle biopsy (CNB) is minimally invasive procedure that provides pathohistological samples. Via microscopic analysis, samples are categorized into five groups according to the B system for pathohistological report. The aim of the study was to follow the spectrum of pathohistological diagnoses; to define which BI-RADS and core categories are most commonly expressed in certain age groups; and to determine the incidence of histological diagnoses in different BI-RADS categories. The study included 631 patients and data was analysed in order to localise the lesion, BI-RADS and core category and pathohistological diagnosis. Within 631 biopsies, 33 diagnoses were given. In each age group, the findings indicating a high risk for malignancy were the most common (>2 %). The highest percentage of malignant categories was found in patients over the age of 61. Final diagnoses showed a deviation compared to the radiological categories, especially in BI-RADS4 category. Pathohistological diagnosis is always a definite confirmation of a breast lesion type and it has significant contribution to the evaluation of CNB quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bradyrhizobium japonicum bacteria on the intensity of nodulation during nine phenophases (R1-R7) in relation to the isoflavone content in soybean seeds. Nine domestic soybean varieties were sown in three replicates, with Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculated and non-inoculated seeds. The different morphological characteristics of nodules, the number and mass of nodules were studied during plants' ontogenesis. The content of individual isoflavones in the sowing seed material was determined using high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). The most abundant isoflavone was acetylgenistin in the variety Galeb (2741.4 µg/g), and the highest content of all isoflavones was recorded in the variety Gorštak (8117.7 µg/g). The variety Sava of the inoculated treatment exhibited the highest average values of the nodule mass (21.1 mg) and the highest number of nodules (23.3) in the phenophase, in which 10% of pods reached full length (R4). The average values of mass and number of nodules were calculated for the entire vegetation period, being higher in the inoculated treatment. There was no positive correlation between the content of isoflavones in seeds and the number and mass of nodules. The impact of quantity of isoflavone on nodulation intensity in soybeans was not significant, which could be related to already saturated soil with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to intense ash dieback, this research tested the bioactivity of Thymus vulgaris, Lavandula angustifolia, and Cupressus sempervirens essential oils (EO) against Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. In vitro testing showed that EOs had a pronounced fungitoxic effect on H. fraxineus. The most effective EO was extracted from T. vulgaris, while EOs obtained from L. angustifolia and C. sempervirens were less effective and showed the same effect. At a concentration of 1%, all tested EOs inhibited mycelial growth, while 0.01% and 0.1% concentrations of EO extracted from T. vulgaris also inhibited the growth of H. fraxineus. The in planta test of EO extracted from T. vulgaris conducted on three‐year‐old Fraxinus angustifolia seedlings showed a reduction in the size of necrotic lesions and a better crown condition compared to untreated seedlings. This research demonstrates, for the first time, the efficiency of EOs in suppressing ash dieback making a path for the development of new biological protection measures against H. fraxineus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis, Hbn.), enters diapause, a strategy characterized by arrest of development and reproduction, reduction of metabolic rate and the emergence of increased resistance to challenging seasonal conditions as low sub-zero winter temperatures. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of inorganic elements in the ecophysiology of O. nubilalis, analysing their content in the whole body, hemolymph and fat body, both metabolically active, non-diapausing and overwintering diapausing larvae by ICP-OES spectrometer following the US EPA method 200.7:2001. O nubilalis as many phytophagous lepidopteran species maintain a very low extracellular sodium concentration and has potassium as dominant cation in hemolymph of their larvae. Changes in hemolymph and the whole body sodium content occur already at the onset of diapause (when the mean environmental temperatures are still high above 0 ºC) and remain stable during the time course of diapause when larvae of this species cope with sub-zero temperatures, it seems that sodium content regulation is rather a part of diapausing program than the direct effect of exposure to low temperatures. Compared to non-diapausing O. nubilalis larvae, potassium levels are much higher in the whole body and fat body of diapausing larvae and substantially increase approaching the end of diapause. The concentration of Ca, Mg, P and S differed in the whole body, hemolymph and fat body between non-diapausing and diapausing larvae without a unique trend during diapause, except an increase in their contents at the end of diapause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Aim. Lentigo maligna (LM) represents an in situ melanoma that develops on chronically photo-damaged skin. Clinical diagnosis of LM is often difficult, even for experienced dermatologists. The aim of the study was to analyze the clinical and dermoscopic features of patients with pathohistologically verified lentigo maligna (LM) and to determine a possible influence of anatomical topography, age and gender in the dermoscopic features of LM. Patients and methods. This retrospective study included 32 patients with 32 LM changes in total, diagnosed between 2017 and 2020. Clinical data recorded from each patient included the following: demographic features (age, gender), anatomic localization (facial or extrafacial) and clinical size (< 10 mm or > 10 mm). Facial area was subdivided into eight topographical sites, while extrafacial localization involved any location outside the face region. All dermoscopic images were analyzed for the presence of dermoscopic features previously described as LM. Results. In the total of 32 patients, there were 19 males and 13 females. The patients' age ranged from 34 to 80 years (median age 60.1 ± 10.4 years). Significant female predominance was observed for localization on the cheeks (p = 0.018). Localization on the nose was significantly associated with patients older than 65 (p = 0.039). The most frequent dermoscopic features were asymmetric pigmented follicular openings in 23 (71.9%) cases, gray color in 22 (68.8%) and pigmented rhomboidal structures in 15 (46.9%) cases. In relation to age and specific dermoscopic features, gray color (p = 0.035) and white scar-like areas (p = 0.012) were significantly higher in patients older than 65, while pigmented rhomboidal structures (p = 0.041) were significantly associated with younger patients. Conclusion. The observed differences in the frequency of clinical and dermoscopic features of LM have significant importance in everyday clinical practice and can assist clinicians in the early diagnosis of this malignant tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce a membership function used to form the fuzzy Mandelbric set and investigate the structural effects of additive and multiplicative dynamic noises on it. The newly defined membership function of this fuzzy set and its perturbations is a generalization of the indicator function for the classical Mandelbric set. We present an algorithm for detecting each complex number's fuzzy membership degree. Through the use of the membership degrees of each complex number and experimental mathematics based on the visualizations of a variety of versions by utilizing computer-aided design, we gain a deep foresight for the structure characteristics of the additive and multiplicative perturbed fuzzy Mandelbric sets. Our novel approach allows us to identify the symmetry states of the Mandelbric set and its perturbations by the membership degrees of complex numbers, unlike the existing methods described in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Properties of the broad line region (BLR) in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are commonly used to estimate the mass of the supermassive black hole (SMBH) that powers an AGN. However, the understanding of the physics behind the BLR remains incomplete. The AGNs exhibit strong optical variability, observed in the change of the profiles and fluxes of broad emission lines. Utilizing this variability provides an opportunity to constrain the physics of the BLR, and understand the interplay of the BLR with SMBH and surrounding regions. Here, we present the long-term monitoring campaign of a sample of the known broad-line AGNs (identified as LoTerm AGN). The aim of this study is to show the importance of sustained and dedicated campaigns that continually collect spectroscopic data of the known AGNs over extended timescales, providing unique insight into the origin and structure of the BLR. LoTerm AGN is a collaborative network of seven moderate-size telescopes equipped for spectroscopy. We focus on the recent spectral data of the known changing-look AGN, NGC 3516. Specifically, we examine the broad hydrogen Balmer H α line observed in the period 2020–2023, demonstrating that this AGN remains active with the BLR signatures observed in the spectra. No significant change in the broad line profile of H α line is observed during this recent period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breaking news are usually disturbing. Natural disasters, wars, epidemics, etc., are reported as breaking news. This paper reports a decreased danger of spreading of epidemics caused by the JN.1 variant, since analyses indicate that infectivity of the new variant is decreased compared to most earlier variants, which is confirmed by the number of cases (7500 daily in USA). Moreover, JN.1, despite the great number of mutations, has not been able to achieve the values of Gibbs energy change of biosynthesis (and thus virus multiplication rate) of the Hu-1 wild type. The research shows that infectivity and pathogenicity of the JN.1 variant has not reached worrying size, which means that there is no reason to expect the epidemiologic situation getting worse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable consumption of construction materials is an important segment of sustainable development goals towards reducing climate change. Since the consumption of natural aggregates raises environmental concerns, there is an increasing demand for use of recycled aggregates (RAs), as it enhances social and environmental benefits and creates a market opportunity. This paper presents the practice of using recycled construction and demolition waste (CDW) in the Belgrade city area (Serbia) as a resource. Two groups of CDW from Vinča landfill site near Belgrade are analyzed: raw material before, and RAs after, construction of a recycling facility on site. Comprehensive characterization is performed (including particle size distribution, density, water and organic pollutants content, various mechanical resistances, flakiness index, etc.) and compilation of samples analyzed and compared to show a holistic overview. The test outputs in both groups show acceptable values and meet required standards, indicating that recycled CDW generated in the Belgrade area can be used as a substitute to natural aggregates. In addition to that, the environmental and economic benefits from this use as a substitute are analyzed and discussed, proving the substantial income from sold Ras and the landscaping benefits, as well as ecological and economic benefits from energy savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, the field of materials research has put significant emphasis on developing innovative platforms that have the potential to address the increasing global energy demand. Batteries have demonstrated their enormous effectiveness in the context of energy storage and consumption. However, safety issues associated with liquid electrolytes combined with a low abundance of lithium in the Earth's crust gave rise to the development of solid-state electrolytes and cations other than lithium. The commercial production of solid-state batteries demands the scaling up of solid-state electrolyte syntheses as well as the mixing of electrode composites containing solid electrolytes. This review is motivated by the recent literature, and it gives a thorough overview of solid-state electrolytes and highlights the significance of the employed milling and dispersing procedures for the resulting ionic transport properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin is a natural compound found in turmeric that exhibits diverse biological activities. However, its poor bioavailability limits its therapeutic application, which has led to the development of various bioavailability-improved formulations. In this methodological study, we analyzed whether systematic reviews on curcumin considered the bioavailability of systemic oral curcumin formulations when synthesizing evidence from human clinical trials. A total of 171 systematic reviews published between 2003 and 2022 were included in the study. From the included studies, we extracted data on study characteristics; type of curcumin; methods; and reporting regarding bioavailability, funding, and conflict of interest. Our results show that systematic reviews rarely consider the variable bioavailability of tested curcumin formulations. Relevant statistical subgroup and/or sensitivity analyses were reported in the methods and results of only 3.5% and 6.4% of reviews, respectively. However, more reviews mentioned bioavailability in their discussion (57%) or conclusion (13%). The detailed analysis of the included systematic reviews suggests that there is broad recognition of product bioavailability as a crucial factor affecting the health effects of curcumin, which is not accompanied by adequate evidence synthesis. Therefore, the results of most systematic reviews on orally administered curcumin should be taken with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research of cave-dwelling diatoms is lacking. In these extreme environments, diatoms are restricted to illuminated zones, and are found at the entrance zone and in the lampenflora community. However, the number of identified species is constantly increasing, and new species are being discovered. The genus Luticola is one of the most widely studied genera worldwide and many representatives are characterized as aerophilous and are found in terrestrial habitats. For the first time, Luticola species identified from phototrophic subaerial biofilms of 10 caves in Serbia (cave entrances and lampenflora) based on detailed light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations were summarized and discussed. In total 11 representatives of the genus were identified at the species level, and morphological features of Luticola acidoclinata, L. angusta, L. frequentissima, L. dismutica, L. nivalis, L. triundulata, and L. quinquenodis were characterized in detail. For Luticola angusta, electron microscopy images are shown for the first time. Additionally, four new taxa (L. angusta, L. frequentissima, L. kopanjae, and L. poulickovae) were recorded for the diatom flora of Serbia. The study fills an important gap regarding the occurrence and characteristics of Luticola representatives in subaerial habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the impact of different methods of weed control in vineyard was carried out in 2015 in the Podgorica sub region. Six different variants of weed control were tested: control, mechanical control, glyphosate (one treatment), glyphosate (two treatments), flazasulfuron and flazasulfuron+glyphosate. A total of 13 weed species from nine families were identified. The Asteraceae family was the most widespread with four species (31%), followed by Poaceae with two (15%), while all other families participated with one weed species each (8%). The dominant weed species in the experimental vineyard were Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Amaranthus retroflexus, Chenopodium album, Sorghum halepense, Heliotropium europaeum and Xanthium strumarium. Annual thermophilic, heliophilic weeds dominated the weed synusia of the vineyard (77%), while perennial species participated with 23%. All applied methods of weed control showed a satisfactory level of efficiency, reducing the number of weed plants and the weed mass per unit area. The best effect in weed control between rows of the vineyard was demonstrated by the variants glyphosate, applied twice (92.7%), flazasulfuron, applied once (92.0%) and glyphosate+flazasulfuron (91.7%). The combination of glyphosate+flazasulfuron (100%) showed the highest efficiency in controlling weeds between the vines in a row. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript we introduce a mixture integer-valued autoregressive model with a structural break. The introduced model is a mixture of an INAR(1) model with the binomial thinning operator and an INAR(1) model with the negative binomial thinning operator. Some properties of the introduced model are derived. The unknown parameters of the model are estimated by some methods and the performances of the obtained estimators are checked by simulations. At the end of the paper, two possible applications of the model are provided and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important hunting game species found in majority of established hunting grounds in the Republic of Serbia are roe deer, wild boar and hare. The objective of this paper is to determine abundance, shooting rate and income generated by managing mentioned game populations in Serbia. On the basis of data of the Republican Bureau of Statistics of Serbia the records on abundance and shooting rate in game species in the 2011-2021 period were collected. The value of shot animals has been determined both on the basis of market pricelist of the Hunting Association of Serbia for the 2021/22 hunting year and according to the structure of animals shot per certain game categories obtained in previous research. Shooting rate realized in relation to overall roe deer abundance in 2021 was 7.90% with the shooting value reaching 1,106,724 euros. Wild boar abundance index recorded population growth of even 33.53% in 2021 and percentage of population utilization accounted for 63.83% while value of shooting reached 834,509 euros being three times higher than the income of shooting established in 2011. Hare population abundance has recorded a drastic fall and this decreasing trend has been reflected also in a reduced shooting rate thus in 2021 the value of shooting rate of hare was 676,625 euros. The results of the analysis of abundance, shooting rate and trends regarding their values make a basis for indicating a direction of improvement and the measures to enhance the management of these game species populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pain radiating from the lower back to the lower limb below the knee is known as sciatica. The purpose of this research was to ascertain how patients with sciatica responded to multimodal rehabilitation therapy. Fifty-one patients with persistent sciatica receiving treatment at the Medical Rehabilitation Clinic of the Clinical Center of Vojvodina were included in the study. In addition to demographic information, we also collected scores from the Oswestry Disability Index, Central Sensitization Inventory, Fear Avoidance Component Scale, and Numerical Rating Scale. At the beginning and completion of the treatment, results were acquired. Thirty-four out of the patients, or 66.7%, were female. The stationary multimodal treatment for chronic pain took place for a period of 20.48 ± 5.89 days. After the treatment, the NRS assessed pain intensity had significantly decreased (6.49 ± 2.22 vs. 5.00 ± 2.22, t = 5.629, p < 0.001). Following the treatment, there was a substantial improvement in the average ODI score (48.75 ± 15.16 vs. 42.24 ± 14.13 (t = 4.246, p < 0.001) and FACS score (66.80 ± 14.13 vs. 62.47 ± 16.49, t = 2.086, p = 0.042). After the course of the treatment, the CSI score decreased, although this change was not statistically significant (t = 1.446, p = 0.155). Patients receiving stationary comprehensive rehabilitation treatment see improvements in their functional status, a decrease in their level of fear-induced activity avoidance, and a reduction in the severity of their pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraoral theranostics, the integration of diagnostics and therapeutics within the oral cavity, is gaining significant traction. This pioneering approach primarily addresses issues like xerostomia (dry mouth), commonly resulting from cancer treatment, with a specific focus on monitoring temperature and humidity. This paper introduces the innovative Intra-Oral Portable Micro-Electronic (IOPM) fluidic theranostic device platform. It leverages conventional dental spoons by incorporating advanced sensors for precise measurements of oral temperature and humidity. Personalization options include a microfluidic chip and a tooth model, enabling targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to optimize treatment outcomes. The electronic control system simplifies the administration of fluid dosages, intelligently adjusted based on real-time oral cavity temperature and humidity readings. Rigorous experimental evaluations validate the platform's precision in delivering fluid volumes at predefined intervals. This platform represents a transformative advancement for individuals contending with oral health challenges such as xerostomia (dry mouth). Furthermore, it has the potential to elevate oral healthcare standards by providing advanced diagnostics and tailored therapeutic solutions, benefiting both patients and dental professionals alike. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of the increase of environmental pollution, we tested the effect of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) soil contamination on ash dieback. The experiment included the inoculation of Hymenoscyphus fraxineus on Fraxinus excelsior and Fraxinus angustifolia seedlings growing on unpolluted soil, soil contaminated with cadmium (Cd), and soil contaminated with lead (Pb). At the end of the experiment, 173 days after soil contamination and 50 days since inoculation, all F. excelsior and F. angustifolia seedlings inoculated with H. fraxineus showed ash dieback symptoms in comparison to their control groups. However, both F. excelsior and F. angustifolia seedlings grown on contaminated soil had significantly increased necrotic lesions in comparison to the seedlings grown on uncontaminated soil. Our results showed for the first time that cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) soil contamination can significantly contribute to ash dieback and increase damage to F. excelsior and F. angustifolia seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]