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The connection between polylogarithmic functions and Euler sums is well known. In this paper we explore the representation and many connections between integrals of products of polylogarithmic functions and Euler sums. We shall consider mainly, polylogarithmic functions with negative arguments, thereby producing new results and extending the work of Freitas. Many examples of integrals of products of polylogarithmic functions in terms of Riemann zeta values and Dirichlet values will be given.

We provide an explicit analytical representation for a number of logarithmic integrals in terms of the Lerch transcendent function and other special functions. The integrals in question will be associated with both alternating harmonic numbers and harmonic numbers with positive terms. A few examples of integrals will be given an identity in terms of some special functions including the Riemann zeta function. In general none of these integrals can be solved by any currently available mathematical package.

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X-ray Fluorescence Computed Tomography (XFCT) has emerged as a promising modality owing to the availability of high-energy polychromatic X-ray sources in the laboratory. As compared to other modalities, XFCT offers advantages such as easy accessibility, low instrumentation costs, and efficient operation. This approach allows for simultaneous transmission computed tomography (CT) along with XFCT, providing multimodal/multiplexed in vivo images and expanding applications with metallic probes such as gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Despite its benefits, CT+XFCT imaging poses challenges, particularly in minimizing X-ray dose. Research into accurate methods for estimating the location of X-ray fluorescence emissions has led to various techniques and developments, applied both experimentally and through simulations.This work introduces an innovative methodology based on X-ray energy dispersion spectrometry, using DICOM images to create probability maps of fluorescence emission locations. We applied this methodology to localize nanoparticles in computer-generated phantoms, demonstrating its feasibility and versatility through Monte Carlo simulations and correlation with micro-tomography. This methodology emerges as a promising tool for obtaining functional information in complex biomedical environments.

This article is devoted to a genetic analysis of German translations of Léopold Sédar Senghor’s work, based on documents held in two archives kept at Humboldt University in Berlin: the archives of Janheinz Jahn, translator responsible for the publication of hundreds of works of African and West Indian literature into German, and the archives of Erica de Bary (1907-2007), writer and translator who was Senghor’s first translator into German. On the basis of the epistolary exchanges of Jahn with Senghor, de Bary and a third translator, Friedhelm Kemp (1914-2011), de Bary’s working drafts and the published versions of Jahn’s translations, as well as a hitherto unknown and uncatalogued version that we discovered during our research, we will analyse the genetic evolution of Senghor’s texts in German, as well as the dynamics of collaboration between Jahn and the other translators, whose work has remained entirely unknown until now.

Introdução: A contaminação de hemoculturas impacta significativamente os seus resultados, levando a consequências perniciosas que compreendem desde a exposição desnecessária a antimicrobianos até o aumento do tempo de hospitalização. Intervenções educacionais para melhores práticas de coleta compõem uma estratégia de baixo custo que pode influenciar as taxas de contaminações, contribuindo para melhor uso dessa ferramenta diagnóstica. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto de intervenção educacional nos resultados de hemoculturas em três unidades com alta taxa de coleta em hospital público terciário e analisar os conhecimentos dos profissionais sobre hemoculturas. Método: Avaliou-se os conhecimentos sobre hemoculturas de médicos residentes e internos, pré e pós-intervenção, em três unidades com alta taxa de coleta e realizou-se treinamento sobre a coleta adequada ao longo de quatro meses. Analisou-se retrospectivamente os resultados de hemoculturas nos quatro meses anteriores ao estudo para posterior comparação com os resultados obtidos nos quatro meses em que o estudo ocorreu. Resultados: Após a intervenção, houve redução nas taxas de contaminação nas três unidades avaliadas, variando de 35,71% para 21,88% na unidade de emergências cirúrgicas, de 18,07% para 11,93% na unidade de emergências clínicas, e de 10,17% para 2,70% na enfermaria de clínica médica. Houve aumento global nas taxas de coletas em todas as unidades, variando de 161 para um total de 215 coletas. Temas como tempo de positivação, distribuição de volume insuficiente de sangue nos frascos de cultura, número de frascos e volume ideal de sangue coletado em um adulto e interpretação de resultados com contaminantes apresentaram elevadas taxas de erros no questionário pré-treinamento. Após o treinamento, observou-se melhora do desempenho no questionário de avaliação em nove das 10 questões propostas e a média geral de acertos variou de 61,70% para 81,50%. As mulheres foram o gênero mais prevalente e o treinamento teve menos efeito nos profissionais com menor tempo de formação. Conclusão: O treinamento sobre coletas reduziu significativamente as taxas de contaminações em todas as unidades avaliadas. Observou-se grandes déficits nos conhecimentos sobre hemoculturas pelos profissionais e o treinamento contribuiu para uma melhora do desempenho no questionário de avaliação. A intervenção educacional demonstrou-se como alternativa de baixo custo para reduzir as taxas de contaminações em unidades com alta demanda desse exame.

Abstract ChatGPT has garnered attention as a multifaceted AI chatbot with potential applications in medicine. Despite intriguing preliminary findings in areas such as clinical management and patient education, there remains a substantial knowledge gap in comprehensively understanding the chances and limitations of ChatGPT’s capabilities, especially in medical test-taking and education. A total of n = 2,729 USMLE Step 1 practice questions were extracted from the Amboss question bank. After excluding 352 image-based questions, a total of 2,377 text-based questions were further categorized and entered manually into ChatGPT, and its responses were recorded. ChatGPT’s overall performance was analyzed based on question difficulty, category, and content with regards to specific signal words and phrases. ChatGPT achieved an overall accuracy rate of 55.8% in a total number of n = 2,377 USMLE Step 1 preparation questions obtained from the Amboss online question bank. It demonstrated a significant inverse correlation between question difficulty and performance with rs = -0.306; p

In this study we investigate a family of skew linear harmonic Euler sums involving some free parameters. Our analysis involves using the properties of the polylogarithm function, commonly referred to as the Bose-Einstein integral. A reciprocity property is utilized to highlight an explicit representation for a particular skew harmonic linear Euler sum. A number of examples are also given which highlight the theorems. This work generalizes some results in the published literature and introduces some new results.

Complex fistulizing perianal disease is a disabling manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), seriously compromising patients ‘quality of life’. The success rate of available treatments is quite low, and nearly half of the patients will develop chronically active fistulas or experience fistula recurrence. Mesenchymal stem cell therapy has shown interesting results, but the complexity and the cost of production limit its widespread use. This study aims to report the results of the innovative use of autologous emulsified adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction tissue for treating complex fistulizing perianal disease. From March 2021 to March 2022, 10 patients underwent a two-step procedure: (1) examination under anaesthesia, with loose seton drainage and 4 weeks later and (2) curettage of the fistulous tract, internal fistula closure and an injection of autologous emulsified adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction tissue harvested from the subcutaneous layer of the patient’s hip. Clinical and radiological (through magnetic resonance imaging) healing were assessed at 6 months. We included five patients affected by Crohn’s disease, three by ulcerative colitis and two by indeterminate colitis. All patients were on concomitant biological therapy (50% on Infliximab). One patient required a re-treatment for a relapse and two different fistulas were separately treated in another one. Out of 12 total procedures performed, clinical healing was achieved in 10 cases (83%), while radiological healing in 6 patients (50%). No adverse events were recorded. Autologous emulsified adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction tissue can represent an effective, safe and cheap add-on therapy for patients with complex perianal fistulas in IBDs.

Soil salinity poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity, impacting the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants. This study investigates the potential of melatonin (MT; 100 µM) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S; 200 µM sodium hydrosulfide, NaHS) to confer the tolerance of wheat plants to 100 mM NaCl. Salinity stress induced the outburst of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in damage to the chloroplast structure, growth, photosynthesis, and yield. Application of either MT or NaHS augmented the activity of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, upregulated the expression of Na+ transport genes (SOS1, SOS2, SOS3, NHX1), resulting in mitigation of salinity stress. Thus, improved stomatal behavior, gas-exchange parameters, and maintenance of chloroplast structure resulted in enhanced activity of the Calvin cycle enzymes and overall enhancement of growth, photosynthetic, and yield performance of plants under salinity stress. The use of DL-propargylglycine (PAG, an inhibitor of hydrogen sulfide biosynthesis) and p-chlorophenyl alanine (p-CPA, an inhibitor of melatonin biosynthesis) to plants under salt stress showed the comparative necessity of MT and H2S in mitigation of salinity stress. In the presence of PAG, more pronounced detrimental effects were observed than in the presence of p-CPA, emphasizing that MT was involved in mitigating salinity through various potential pathways, one of which was through H2S.

Abstract Background Plants mediate several defense mechanisms to withstand abiotic stresses. Several gene families respond to stress as well as multiple transcription factors to minimize abiotic stresses without minimizing their effects on performance potential. RNA helicase (RH) is one of the foremost critical gene families that can play an influential role in tolerating abiotic stresses in plants. However, little knowledge is present about this protein family in rapeseed (canola). Here, we performed a comprehensive survey analysis of the RH protein family in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). Results A total of 133 BnRHs genes have been discovered in this study. By phylogenetic analysis, RHs genes were divided into one main group and a subgroup. Examination of the chromosomal position of the identified genes showed that most of the genes (27%) were located on chromosome 3. All 133 identified sequences contained the main DEXDC domain, the HELICC domain, and a number of sub-domains. The results of biological process studies showed that about 17% of the proteins acted as RHs, 22% as ATP binding, and 14% as mRNA binding. Each part of the conserved motifs, communication network, and three-dimensional structure of the proteins were examined separately. The results showed that the RWC in leaf tissue decreased with higher levels of drought stress and in both root and leaf tissues sodium concentration was increased upon increased levels of salt stress treatments. The proline content were found to be increased in leaf and root with the increased level of stress treatment. Finally, the expression patterns of eight selected RHs genes that have been exposed to drought, salinity, cold, heat and cadmium stresses were investigated by qPCR. The results showed the effect of genes under stress. Examination of gene expression in the Hayola #4815 cultivar showed that all primers except primer #79 had less expression in both leaves and roots than the control level. Conclusions New finding from the study have been presented new insights for better understanding the function and possible mechanism of RH in response to abiotic stress in rapeseed.

(1) Background: As the field of artificial intelligence (AI) evolves, tools like ChatGPT are increasingly integrated into various domains of medicine, including medical education and research. Given the critical nature of medicine, it is of paramount importance that AI tools offer a high degree of reliability in the information they provide. (2) Methods: A total of n = 450 medical examination questions were manually entered into ChatGPT thrice, each for ChatGPT 3.5 and ChatGPT 4. The responses were collected, and their accuracy and consistency were statistically analyzed throughout the series of entries. (3) Results: ChatGPT 4 displayed a statistically significantly improved accuracy with 85.7% compared to that of 57.7% of ChatGPT 3.5 (p < 0.001). Furthermore, ChatGPT 4 was more consistent, correctly answering 77.8% across all rounds, a significant increase from the 44.9% observed from ChatGPT 3.5 (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: The findings underscore the increased accuracy and dependability of ChatGPT 4 in the context of medical education and potential clinical decision making. Nonetheless, the research emphasizes the indispensable nature of human-delivered healthcare and the vital role of continuous assessment in leveraging AI in medicine.

According to a 2019 United Nations report, of all the known species, up to 1 million face extinction globally. Despite being considered a pressing global risk with several international efforts to protect and to restore, biodiversity loss and the degradation of ecosystems continue at an alarming rate. In December 2022, the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) saw the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, where four overarching international goals for biodiversity and 23 targets were set. While this is a positive step towards addressing the drivers of biodiversity loss, we will need not just public and political will but also more effective methods to integrate and use scientific information to reach the goals and targets outlined. To facilitate this, scientists and research institutions need to establish alternative and new approaches to transform the way science is conducted, communicated, and integrated into the policymaking process. This will require the scientific community to become proficient at working in interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary teams, establishing connectivity across scientific disciplines and engaging in the policymaking process to ensure that the best available scientific evidence is not only comprehensible to decision-makers but also timely and relevant. This commentary details how scientists can embrace transformative change within and outside of their own communities to increase the impact of their research and help reach global targets that benefit society.

Isoprene, a lipophilic and unstable compound with the chemical formula C5H8, is transported to plant chloroplasts via the 2-C-methyl-d-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway, which relies on photosynthesis. Although only about 20% of terrestrial plants can synthesize isoprene, those that emit it are more adaptable to oxidative and thermal stresses. To shed light on the still-elusive protective mechanism of isoprene, numerous investigations have been conducted. Isoprene has been shown to react with and quench various reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as singlet oxygen (1O2). Its reduced state and conjugated double bonds suggest that it functions as an antioxidant, although this has yet to be conclusively proven. Despite its low abundance relative to other molecules in plant tissues, recent research has explored several potential roles for isoprene including acting as a scavenger of ROS by serving as an antioxidant; strengthening cell membranes; modulating genomic, proteomic and metabolomic profiles; signaling stress responses among neighboring plants compared with other volatile organic compounds (VOCs); regulating metabolic fluxes of hormones produced through the MEP pathway; or even functioning as a free developmental hormone. Future prospective studies, such as identifying the specific receptors for VOCs along with transcription factors (TFs) and other regulatory proteins participating in the signaling pathways and also metabolomic, transcriptomic and physiological analyses could help in comprehending VOC-induced defense responses in plants under stress conditions.

Abstract Oscura is a planned light-dark matter search experiment using Skipper-CCDs with a total active mass of 10 kg. As part of the detector development, the collaboration plans to build the Oscura Integration Test (OIT), an engineering test with 10% of the total mass. Here we discuss the early science opportunities with the OIT to search for millicharged particles (mCPs) using the NuMI beam at Fermilab. mCPs would be produced at low energies through photon-mediated processes from decays of scalar, pseudoscalar, and vector mesons, or direct Drell-Yan productions. Estimates show that the OIT would be a world-leading probe for mCPs in the ∼MeV mass range.

Brassica crops are vital as they supply essential minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive substances like anthocyanins, glucosinolates, and carotenoids. However, biotic and abiotic elements that cause oxidative stress through heavy metals and other eco-toxicants pose a risk to Brassica plants. Increased generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) causes oxidative stress, which damages biomolecules and interferes with plant growth, productivity, and cellular equilibrium. Plants producing Brassica need an intricate enzyme defence mechanism to fend off oxidative stress. All the enzymes that have been addressed are found in mitochondria, peroxisomes, chloroplasts, and other cell components. They are in charge of removing ROS and preserving the cell’s redox balance. Additionally, Brassica plants use secondary metabolites called Glucosinolates (GLs), which have the capacity to regulate enzymatic activity and act as antioxidants. By breaking down compounds like sulforaphane, GLs boost antioxidant enzymes and provide protection against oxidative stress. To develop methods for improving agricultural crop stress tolerance and productivity in Brassica, it is necessary to comprehend the dynamic interaction between GL metabolism and enzymatic antioxidant systems. This highlights the possibility of maximizing antioxidant defences and raising the nutritional and commercial value of Brassica across the globe by utilizing genetic diversity and environmental interactions.

Ionizing radiation detection devices have been widely used in recent years in various applications and experimental fields, such as high energy physics, nuclear physics, and medical imaging. Detailed description of their operational properties and their characterization by means of numerical modelling, as simulations, are key issue to understand the characteristics of radiation detectors in terms of efficiency, resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, since they allow optimising parameters that will be further used. The modelling processes, as the simulations, are routinely carried out using various tools, like Monte Carlo approaches, for instance: PENELOPE, FLUKA or GEANT4 are used to study the interaction of the radiation with the detector accounting for the whole physical processes. However, transporting electron/hole pairs, as generated through the device sensor to conform the corresponding electronic signals uses tools based on the finite element method, such as TCAD (Technology Computer Aided Design), which are developed mainly to help the microelectronics industry to design products. Usually, modelling approaches for radiation transport and electonic signal production are not integrated, thus performing the simulation process by splitting the problem intosucessive independent phases. Within this framework, the present study proposes, implements, and reports on a novel methodology that allows combining the two approaches aimed at integrating the complete simulation, thus achieving a step-by-step integrated modelling flow to describe the interaction of ionizing radiation with the sensor along with the transport of the generated charge to the photodiodes and, finally, to the generation of electronic signals.

Background:. This study presents a case of thumb replantation performed despite several risk factors: age, comorbidities, and trauma mechanism are major adverse prognostic factors directly impacting thumb replantation. Most of the literature backs up this claim that a thumb that works, even partially, is a better outcome for the patient than amputation. Methods:. We performed thumb replantation on a 94-year-old patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus who arrived at the emergency department with a thumb avulsion due to a dog bite. The intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography method aided us in carrying out the operation. Results:. We successfully used indocyanine green angiography intraoperatively to guide surgical debridement and evaluate the efficacy of anastomosis and reperfusion of the replanted segment during surgery. Two months after the operation, the patient had regained satisfactory hand function. Conclusions:. Although indocyanine green angiography is not a technology created for revascularization procedures, it is instrumental in assessing vascular function and predicting a successful outcome. Given its undeniable potential, more research is needed on the possibility of widespread use in hand surgery and its indications.

Summary:. Breast reduction is one of the most required plastic surgery procedures worldwide, improving significantly the quality of life for patients with macromastia and gigantomachia. Despite various proposed approaches aiming to yield more stable results postreduction, no single technique has demonstrated unequivocal superiority. Recurrence ptosis at 6–12 months postoperative remains a challenging concern. To improve this issue, the authors propose a novel application of the poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) scaffold on the anterior surface of the Ribeiro dermo-adipose flap. The primary aim was to establish a durable and resilient biological connection between the mammary gland and the flap, thereby promoting long-lasting outcomes in breast reduction procedures. The P4HB scaffold is a monofilament, single-layer, biologically derived, fully resorbable, rapidly integrating within breast tissue; this biological process stimulates the formation of freshly vascularized connective tissue up to a thickness of 2–3 mm. Within 18–24 months, the scaffold undergoes gradual resorption through hydrolysis-based mechanism, providing enhanced strength and resistance to the native tissue, as shown in animal model. A key innovation proposed by the authors involves the division of a 15 × 20 cm rectangular sheet of the P4HB scaffold along its diagonal, resulting in two right triangles. This modification ensures increased height of the device if compared with the traditional splitting technique of the scaffold. The strategic establishment of a biological bridge between the mammary gland and flap through the implementation of the P4HB scaffold could potentially enhance the longevity and aesthetics of breast reduction outcomes.

This study examined Ghanaian parents’ perspectives on how their children’s play experiences were influenced by the 2019 coronavirus pandemic. Purposive criterion sampling was used to select 15 parents (aged 20-50 years old) from three communities in the Cape Coast Metropolis in the Central Region of Ghana. The selection criteria were that potential parents had at least one child between the ages of four and eight years old, and that the child or children must be living with the parent(s) at the time of the study. Semi-structured interviews served as the primary source of data. Inductive data analysis strategies were employed to analyze the data. Results showed that children’s play experiences changed during the pandemic in terms of play types, play places, play partners, play materials, frequency of play, and gender dynamics. The major factors that influenced children’s play during the coronavirus outbreak were parents’ personal factors and the availability of play materials. Additionally, children were active agents in their own play experiences. There needs to be a concerted effort among parents, schools, and other stakeholders aimed at providing developmentally appropriate play experiences for young children.

Aimé Césaire’s Cahier d’un retour au pays natal, a key poem in Caribbean literature, is a fluid text that exists in different versions, both published and unpublished. This fluidity is further complicated by the numerous translations of the Cahier. Not only do these translations multiply the possibilities of reading and interpretation, they are also based on different versions of the poem. This article proposes a study of the poem’s fluidity through its English-language translations, including an unpublished translation by Derek Walcott. The aim of this analysis is not only to identify the transformation of Césaire’s words due to the passage to another language and culture, but also and above all to show how an unpublished translation of this poem (in particular the incipit) has profoundly influenced the work of the Saint Lucian poet, in particular the incipit of his poem Omeros, thus contributing to an exceptional poetic encounter between two iconic authors of Caribbean literature.

Introdução: A infecção por Clostridioides difficile (CF) representa desafio em internações de pacientes com comorbidades e uso de antimicrobianos, com dados escassos no Brasil. Objetivo: Avaliar internações por CF em hospital terciário e determinar suas condições associadas. Resultados: Em 18 meses, 143 exames para CF solicitados foram considerados e 59 amostras hospitalares foram analisadas. Glutamato Desidrogenase (GDH) positivo para CF foi visto em 24,5% dos casos e Toxina A/B para CF em 13,2%. Homens representavam 60,4% dos casos, com 49,8 anos de média (15‒82 anos) e predomínio da faixa etária entre 60‒69 anos (22,6%). Sintomas infecciosos foram relatados em 96,2% dos pacientes, com 86,8% apresentando comorbidades. Idade >65 anos (30,2%), internação nos últimos 90 dias (28,3%) e neoplasia (28,3%) foram as mais comuns. Mortalidade em 30 dias foi de 11,3%. Houve relação importante entre óbitos e idade entre 60‒69 anos (OR=9,75 p=0,006); presença de neoplasia (OR=6,54, p=0,027); Toxina A/B positiva (OR=29,3, p=0,000); GDH positivo (OR=8,44, p=0,011); uso prévio de antimicrobianos (OR 1,95, p=0,023); uso de ceftriaxona (OR=29,3, p=0,000) e clindamicina (OR=23, p=0,002). Em 56,6% havia uso prévio de antimicrobianos, sendo a piperacilina tazobactam (18,9%) e ceftriaxona (13,2%) os mais frequentes. O tratamento de CF foi realizado em 49,1% dos pacientes, com uso de metronidazol (88,5%) e vancomicina (11,5%). Pacientes com neoplasia tiveram maior chance de ser tratados (OR=4,2, p=0,026). Entretanto, houve menor chance de tratamento se GDH ou Toxina A/B negativos (OR=0,7 e OR=0,5 com p=0,004 e p=0,000, respectivamente). Houve correlação entre doença cardíaca (OR=17,3 e p=0,001), uso prévio de antimicrobianos (OR=14,6 p=0,002), ceftriaxona (OR=5,48 p=0,003) e GDH (OR=16,5 p=0,031) ou Toxina A/B positivos (OR=7,8 p=0,013). O GDH para CF facilita a identificação, mas o uso ainda é confundido, já que tratamentos são propostos mesmo em pacientes com exames negativos e outras causas de diarreia. Algumas condições como doença cardíaca tiveram maior chance de positividade de GDH neste estudo. A sintomatologia é essencial para discutir tratamento se GDH positivo nesses casos, mesmo com toxina negativa. Conclusão: A associação de GDH e Toxina A/B para CF auxilia na discussão de casos, mas o treinamento de equipes e a avaliação de situações de risco devem ser sempre prioritárias no acompanhamento de pacientes com risco aumentado de colite pseudomembranosa.

The mulberry tree (Morus alba) is a perennial and fast-growing tree distributed worldwide under different climatic conditions. Most of the world’s silk production (>90%) is facilitated by the feeding of silkworm larvae on the leaves of mulberry (Morus alba L.) varieties. Therefore, exploration of the protocol for improving the propagation efficiency and increasing the reproductive capacity of M. alba varieties could be of great significance. This study aimed to determine the effect of four concentrations (0, 100, 200 and 400 mg L−1) each of naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and zinc sulfate (0, 100 and 200 mg L−1), supplied separately or combined, on the rooting and growth of mulberry cuttings. M. alba cuttings were immersed for 5 s in each solution using the quick-dip method and subsequently, the cuttings were dried and planted in plastic pots and maintained in a greenhouse for 60 days. The number of leaves (NL), longest root size (LRS), longest stem size (LSS), number of rooted cuttings (NRC), number of stems per tree (NSP), rooting percentage (RP), wet root weight (WRW), dry root weight (DRW), wet stem weight (WSW), dry stem weight (DSW), wet leaf weight (WLW) and dry leaf weight (DLW) were evaluated. The results obtained showed an increase in all growth parameters of the mulberry cuttings. Treatments of hormones (IBA and NAA) and Zn sulfate were effective on LSS, LRS and WSW. The highest values of LSS were obtained for the treatments T5, T6, T14, T15, T16 and T18. Moreover, T5, T12 and T10 showed the highest values of LRS. The highest value of WSW was observed for T18, T5, T14, T15 and T16. The highest values of WLW and DLW were observed in T20 and T14. Dry stem weight (DSW) was high in T18 and T14. The application of NAA (at 200 mg L−1), IBA (200 and 400 mg L−1) and Zn sulfate (200 and 400 mg L−1), either alone or in double combination, can be a suitable and reliable method for mulberry propagation.

In recent years, the study of X-ray spectrometry has promoted significant advances in various scientific areas, thus increasing the implementation of ionizing radiation in many applications of modern technology. Typical X-ray spectrometry systems consist of a set of devices that allow this radiation to be converted into a detectable electrical signal. The main spectrometer components include: the sensitive volume (detector), the multichannel pulse processing device, and the associated software. Cadmium telluride (CdTe) has been introduced as a suitable bulk-sensing semiconductor material that reports higher efficiency compared to silicon diodes. Then, the Amptek XR-100T-CdTe spectrometer, has gained wide applications during the last years, mainly due to its performance achieving high efficiency up to 100 keV.The present work reports on the characterization of detector response for the Amptek XR using Monte Carlo simulations, while separately accounting for the contribution of the different spectrometer components. To this aim, the geometry along with the elemental composition properties of the different components have been carefully included in the simulation setup. A kernel based approach has been implemented to study the response of the detector using narrow monoenergetic X-ray beams having incident kinetic energy within [5-1000] keV, and discriminating the relative contribution for each kernel attributable to the different spectrometer components. Finally, the simulation results have been compared with the efficiency curve reported by the manufacturer, showing good agreement with the kernel based approach characterization when the CdTe sensitive volume along with the Be vacuum window are taken into account.

A significant threat to the ongoing rise in temperature caused by global warming. Plants have many stress-resistance mechanisms, which is responsible for maintaining plant homeostasis. Abiotic stresses largely increase gaseous molecules’ synthesis in plants. The study of gaseous signaling molecules has gained attention in recent years. The role of gaseous molecules, such as nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), and ethylene, in plants under temperature high-temperature stress are discussed in the current review. Recent studies revealed the critical function that gaseous molecules play in controlling plant growth and development and their ability to respond to various abiotic stresses. Here, we provide a thorough overview of current advancements that prevent heat stress-related plant damage via gaseous molecules. We also explored and discussed the interaction of gaseous molecules. In addition, we provided an overview of the role played by gaseous molecules in high-temperature stress responses, along with a discussion of the knowledge gaps and how this may affect the development of high-temperature-resistant plant species.

The study examined the impact of a secondary physical education teaching techniques course on teacher candidates’ (PETC) perceptions about their early field experiences. Participants included 33 PETCs (78.79% males and 21.21% females) enrolled in the techniques course. A 5-item open-ended questionnaire served as the main data source. The questionnaire assessed PECTs’ perceptions on three components of their teacher education program: PE methods/techniques courses and professional education courses (Block I, Block II, and Block III). In addition, it sought PECTs’ suggestions for future Block III teacher candidates. The questionnaire was administered to the PETCs at the beginning and at the end of the semester. Data were analyzed utilizing qualitative content analysis – inductive category development and a deductive category application. The inductive analysis identified eight categories: content knowledge, instructional strategies, planning, self-efficacy, technology, classroom management, assessment, and professionalism. The deductive analysis indicated highest percentage of comments for both pretest (31.61%) and posttest (30.89%) were related to physical education methods/techniques and early experiences, followed by suggestions for future students, 28.73% and 24.39% respectively.

Abstract The Coherent Neutrino-Nucleus Interaction Experiment (CONNIE) is taking data at the Angra 2 nuclear reactor with the aim of detecting the coherent elastic scattering of reactor antineutrinos with silicon nuclei using charge-coupled devices (CCDs). In 2019 the experiment operated with a hardware binning applied to the readout stage, leading to lower levels of readout noise and improving the detection threshold down to 50 eV. The results of the analysis of 2019 data are reported here, corresponding to the detector array of 8 CCDs with a fiducial mass of 36.2 g and a total exposure of 2.2 kg-days. The difference between the reactor-on and reactor-off spectra shows no excess at low energies and yields upper limits at 95% confidence level for the neutrino interaction rates. In the lowest-energy range, 50 − 180 eV, the expected limit stands at 34 (39) times the standard model prediction, while the observed limit is 66 (75) times the standard model prediction with Sarkis (Chavarria) quenching factors.

Design: Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by surgery is the standard of care for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).Several studies have shown a correlation between a longer interval between the end of nCRT and surgery (surgical interval - SI) and an increased pathological complete response (pCR) rate, with a maximum obtained between 10 and 13 weeks.The primary endpoint of this multicenter, 2-arm randomised trial is to investigate SI lengthening, evaluating the difference in terms of complete response (CR) and Tumor Regression Grade (TRG)1 rate in the two arms. Secondly, the impact of SI lengthening on survival outcomes and quality of life (QoL) will be investigated. Methods: Intermediate-risk LARC patients undergoing nCRT will be prospectively included in the study. nCRT will be administered with a total dose of 55 Gy in 25 fractions on Gross Tumor Volume (GTV) plus the corresponding mesorectum of 45 Gy in 25 fractions on the whole pelvis. Chemotherapy with oral capecitabine will be administered continuously.The patients achieving a clinical major or complete response assessed at clinical-instrumental re-evaluation at 7–8 weeks after treatment completion, will be randomized into two groups, to undergo surgery or local excision at 9–11 weeks (control arm) or at 13–16 weeks (experimental arm). Pathological response will be assessed on the surgical specimen using the AJCC TNM v.7 and the TRG according to Mandard. Patients will be followed up to evaluate toxicity and QoL.The promoter center of the trial will conduct the randomization process through an automated procedure to prevent any possible bias.For sample size calculation, using CR difference of 20% as endpoint, 74 patients per arm will be enrolled. Conclusions: The results of this study may prospectively provide a new time frame for the clinical re-evaluation for complete/major responders patients in order to increase the CR rate to nCRT.Trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03581344.

The International Journal of Plant Biology is embarking on an exciting new journey as we expand our horizons and delve deeper into the multifaceted world of plant science [...]

Abstract Background Neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (nCRT) is the standard treatment modality in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Since response to radiotherapy (RT) is dose dependent in rectal cancer, dose escalation may lead to higher complete response rates. The possibility to predict patients who will achieve complete response (CR) is fundamental. Recently, an early tumour regression index (ERI) was introduced to predict pathological CR (pCR) after nCRT in LARC patients. The primary endpoints will be the increase of CR rate and the evaluation of feasibility of delta radiomics-based predictive MRI guided Radiotherapy (MRgRT) model. Methods Patients affected by LARC cT2-3, N0-2 or cT4 for anal sphincter involvement N0-2a, M0 without high risk features will be enrolled in the trial. Neoadjuvant CRT will be administered using MRgRT. The initial RT treatment will consist in delivering 55 Gy in 25 fractions on Gross Tumor Volume (GTV) plus the corresponding mesorectum and 45 Gy in 25 fractions on the drainage nodes. Chemotherapy with 5-fluoracil (5-FU) or oral capecitabine will be administered continuously. A 0.35 Tesla MRI will be acquired at simulation and every day during MRgRT. At fraction 10, ERI will be calculated: if ERI will be inferior than 13.1, the patient will continue the original treatment; if ERI will be higher than 13.1 the treatment plan will be reoptimized, intensifying the dose to the residual tumor at the 11th fraction to reach 60.1 Gy. At the end of nCRT instrumental examinations are to be performed in order to restage patients. In case of stable disease or progression, the patient will undergo surgery. In case of major or complete clinical response, conservative approaches may be chosen. Patients will be followed up to evaluate toxicity and quality of life. The number of cases to be enrolled will be 63: all the patients will be treated at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS in Rome. Discussion This clinical trial investigates the impact of RT dose escalation in poor responder LARC patients identified using ERI, with the aim of increasing the probability of CR and consequently an organ preservation benefit in this group of patients. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04815694 (25/03/2021).

Oligometastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) is a clinically relevant entity, and surgery is the gold standard therapeutic option. Current guidelines recommend evaluating other local ablative treatments (LATs) in patients not eligible for surgery. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) are emerging as highly beneficial less-invasive LATs in alternative to surgery. In our paper, we report the first case in literature of lymph node metastases from CRC treated sequentially with EUS-RFA and SBRT, providing evidence of their efficacy and safety. LATs combined with systemic chemotherapy might be included in a multimodal therapeutic approach to oligometastatic disease.

Climate change negatively affects crop productivity, threatening the survival of entire populations from many vulnerable hotspot regions of the world with the risk of exacerbating hunger, malnutrition and international inequality. Selecting plant species manifesting abiotic stress-tolerant adaptive traits represents a challenge towards ensuring that crops are more resistant and resilient to environmental perturbations. The rhizosheath, defined as the complex of root hair, exudates and soil that strongly adheres to plant roots, is a promising root adaptive trait in facing conditions of water and nutrient deficits, as well as acidic soil. Several beneficial ecological functions are attributed to the rhizosheath, such as enhancing water and nutrient uptake; protecting from dehydration, heat and acid stresses; and stimulating microbial activities. It has been described in several Angiosperm species, including crops grown in severe habitats. The aim of this review was to collect the relevant literature produced to date regarding rhizosheaths, focusing on (i) the various processes involved in its formation, including both physicochemical and biological ones; (ii) the evolutionary and ecological role of rhizosheaths; and (iii) the most frequently used methodologies for its investigation and characterization. The present work provides a comprehensive overview of this revolutionary root’s great agronomic importance in order to address future research aiming to fill the existing knowledge gaps and define a common and shared methodology.

This contribution is partly a personal reflection on the translation of the Cahier d’un retour au pays natal, a key text of Caribbean literature that is in a constant state of flux – because of the different versions published by Césaire, as well its translations – and a travel journal of a research that is itself in a state of flux, between the islands and the words of the poets of the Caribbean archipelago.

Aimé Césaire’s Cahier d’un retour au pays natal, a fundamental text of French literature, is a fluid poem that changes at the same pace as its poet and the world around him. Moreover, we have neither a manuscript of the original version of the poem nor a true definitive version, since the so-called “definitive” version of 1956 is not the last existing version of the text. This fluidity is further complicated by the numerous translations of the Cahier, which multiply the possibilities of reading and interpreting it, because of the movement inherent in any act of translation that introduces diversity into the original text, and because of the fact that these translations are based on different “originals”. In this introduction, after a brief history of the genetic evolution of the poem, we will also highlight the fundamental role played by translation in the evolution of the text, which will allow us to continue its exploration and to contribute to a plural and multilingual reading of Césaire’s work.

The purpose of the study was to examine preservice teachers’ (PTs) experiences and conceptions of appropriate and inappropriate elementary physical education instructional practices. Participants included a purposive sample of 92 PTs enrolled in an introductory elementary PE methods course. A 3-item open-ended questionnaire served as the data source. The questionnaire asked PTs to indicate what practices in the PE programs they participated in during their elementary school years were appropriate or inappropriate; and to describe the future PE programs they would like their future students to participate in. The National Association for Sport and Physical Education appropriate instructional practice categories were used for a deductive content analysis to code the open-ended questionnaire items. The categories were: Learning Environment, (LE) Instructional Strategies (INS), Curriculum (CRM), Assessment (AST), and Professionalism (PRG). Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Most of PTs’ comments for appropriate practices that they experienced were in CRM (41%), followed by INS (35%). The highest percentage of comments for CRM and INS were in the motor skill learning experiences and class design subcategories respectively. Alternatively, the least percentage of comments were in PRG (.00%), followed by AST (4.00%). The highest percentage of comments for inappropriate practices was in LE (43.71%), followed by INS (37.09%). Furthermore, the highest percentage of comments regarding PTs’ future PE programs for appropriate and inappropriate practices were in CRM (37.50%) and LE (21.65%) respectively. Conversely, the lowest percentages were both in PRG, .57% (appropriate) and 2.06% (inappropriate) respectively. PTs’ reflections showed they focused on curriculum, instructional strategies, and learning environments in identifying appropriate and inappropriate practices in elementary PE.

In recent years, application of bio-fertilizers (BFs) in intercropping systems has become known as one of the main sustainable and eco-friendly strategies for improving the quantity and quality of forage crops. In order to evaluate the forage quantity and quality of sorghum intercropped with soybean, a two-year field experiment was carried out as factorial based on a randomized complete blocks design (RCBD) with three replications. The first factor was different cropping patterns including soybean monocultures with densities of 40 and 50 plants m−2 (G40 and G50), sorghum monocultures with densities of 10 and 15 plants m−2 (S10 and S15) and intercropping of two plants with the mentioned densities. The second factor was non-application (control) and application of bio-fertilizers. The results demonstrated that the highest dry forage yield of sorghum (21.22 t ha−1) was obtained in monoculture conditions with density of 15 plants m−2 and inoculation with bio-fertilizer (S15+BF). The maximum crude protein (CP = 149.6 g kg−1 DM), ash (113.2 g kg−1 DM), water soluble carbohydrates (WSC = 251.16 g kg−1 DM), dry matter intake (DMI = 26.83 g kg−1 of body weight), digestible dry matter (DDM = 668.01 g kg−1 DM), total digestible nutrients (TDN = 680.42 g kg−1 DM), relative feed value (RFV = 142.98%) and net energy for lactation (NEL = 1.625 Mcal kg−1) were observed in the intercropping of S10G50 inoculated with BF. Interestingly, application of bio-fertilizers enhanced the content of CP, ash, WSC, DMI, DDM, TDN, RFV and NEL by 7.5, 8, 11.7, 3.6, 2.3, 12.3, 5.9 and 3.5% when compared with the control (non-application of bio-fertilizers). In all intercropping patterns, the total land equivalent ratio (LER) value was greater than one, representing the advantage of these cropping patterns in comparison with sorghum monoculture. The highest total LER was recorded in the intercropping of S15G40 and S10G50 following application of BF. Additionally, the highest monetary advantage index (MAI) was calculated in the intercropping of S15G40+BF. Generally, it can be concluded that the intercropping of S10G50 along with bio-fertilizer inoculation could be suggested as an eco-friendly strategy for improving the forage quantity and quality under low-input conditions.

Introdução: A Burkholderia é gênero de bactérias gram negativas não fermentadoras que naturalmente são resistentes à maioria dos betalactâmicos, podendo estar associadas a colonização de frascos de clorexidina em surtos de infecção hospitalar. Objetivo: Descrição de surto de Burkholderia spp. em pacientes de equipe de cirurgia vascular e neurocirurgia de hospital terciário, suas medidas de controle e desdobramentos. Método: Em período de 45 dias, foram identificadas culturas de tecidos e partes moles retirados de 8 pacientes cirúrgicos, sendo encontradas as espécies B. cepacea (3 pacientes) e B. contaminas (5 pacientes). Resultados: Apenas três pacientes tiveram sintomas com necessidade de tratamento. Foi iniciada investigação assim que os primeiros casos surgiram, realizando auditoria de cirurgias, procurando sinais de infecção cruzada; investigação em sala de angiografia e sala de curativos da enfermaria, unidade de terapia intensiva e ainda avaliação de produtos utilizados. Foram encontradas diversas almotolias com mais de sete dias de abertura e materiais de curativos armazenados inadequadamente no setor. Realizadas culturas de frascos de clorexidina das salas de angiografia, centro cirúrgico e enfermaria, com resultados negativos. Não houve detecção de profissional único que estivesse relacionado aos casos, apenas de equipe como todo. Foram realizadas intervenções nos locais investigados, com retirada de materiais inadequados. Orientações foram realizadas para as equipes médica, de limpeza e de enfermagem. Houve ainda reforço com equipe de limpeza nas concorrentes e terminais pós procedimentos. Após as medidas de conscientização, controle de materiais e auditorias, houve desaparecimento de novos casos. Discussão: Apesar de não identificado foco do surto, o conjunto de medidas o bloqueou e houve melhora do padrão descrito. Mesmo não tendo sido a única medida de controle proposta, a presença de almotolias de clorexidina abertas e inadequadas nas salas de curativos e de angiografia da equipe pode ter contribuído para o aparecimento das bactérias, pois é descrito seu crescimento neste tipo de material. Conclusão: A detecção precoce de surtos representa desafio a equipes executoras de controle de infecção e a instalação de medidas de controle mobilizando diversas equipes é fundamental para evitar aumento de infecções relacionadas a assistências de saúde.

Abstract Background The Schistosomiasis Consortium for Operational Research and Evaluation (SCORE) coordinated a five-year study implemented in several countries, including Niger, to provide an evidence-base for programmatic decisions regarding cost-effective approaches to preventive chemotherapy for schistosomiasis control. Methods This was a cluster-randomised trial investigating six possible combinations of annual or biannual community-wide treatment (CWT), school-based treatment (SBT), and holidays from mass treatment over four years. The most intense arm involved two years of annual CWT followed by 2 years of biannual CWT, while the least intensive arm involved one year of annual SBT followed by a year without treatment and two more years of annual SBT. The primary outcome of interest was prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma haematobium among 100 children aged 9–12 years sampled each year. In addition, 100 children aged 5–8 years in their first year of school and 50 adults (aged 20–55 years) were tested in the first and final fifth year of the study. Results In total, data were collected from 167,500 individuals across 225 villages in nine districts within the Niger River valley, Western Niger. Overall, the prevalence of S. haematobium decreased from baseline to Year 5 across all study arms. The relative reduction of prevalence was greater in biannual compared with annual treatment across all arms; however, the only significant difference was seen in areas with a high starting prevalence. Although adults were not targeted for treatment in SBT arms, a statistically significant decrease in prevalence among adults was seen in moderate prevalence areas receiving biannual (10.7% to 4.8%) SBT (P < 0.001). Adults tested in the annual SBT group also showed a decrease in prevalence between Year 1 and Year 5 (12.2% to 11.0%), but this difference was not significant. Conclusions These findings are an important consideration for schistosomiasis control programmes that are considering elimination and support the idea that scaling up the frequency of treatment rounds, particularly in areas of low prevalence, will not eliminate schistosomiasis. Interestingly, the finding that prevalence decreased among adults in SBT arms suggests that transmission in the community can be reduced, even where only school children are being treated, which could have logistical and cost-saving implications for the national control programmes.

Social Impact Statement Positive interactions between people and nature inspire behaviours that are in harmony with biodiversity conservation and also afford physical and mental health benefits. Since most people live in towns and cities, urban greenspaces are key points of influence for conservation, but also provide diverse ecosystem services. City trees are a foundation for biodiversity in urban ecosystems, and their belowground interactions with mycorrhizal fungi and aboveground interactions with pollinators must be central to urban ecosystem planning. Messaging about biodiversity must be clearer to avoid unintended negative outcomes from conservation actions such as low diversity tree planting and unsustainable levels of urban beekeeping Summary Trees are a foundation for biodiversity in urban ecosystems and therefore must be able to withstand global change and biological challenges over decades and even centuries to prevent urban ecosystems from deteriorating. Tree quality and diversity should be prioritized over simply numbers to optimize resilience to these challenges. Successful establishment and renewal of trees in cities must also consider belowground (e.g., mycorrhizas) and aboveground (e.g., pollinators) interactions to ensure urban ecosystem longevity, biodiversity conservation and continued provision of the full range of ecosystem services provided by trees. Positive interactions with nature inspire people to live more sustainable lifestyles that are consistent with stopping biodiversity loss and to participate in conservation actions such as tree‐planting and supporting pollinators. Interacting with nature simultaneously provides mental and physical health benefits to people. Since most people live in cities, here we argue that urban ecosystems provide important opportunities for increasing engagement with nature and educating people about biodiversity conservation. While advocacy on biodiversity must communicate in language that is relevant to a diverse audience, over‐simplified messaging, may result in unintended negative outcomes. For example, tree planting actions typically focus on numbers rather than diversity while the call to save bees has inspired unsustainable proliferation of urban beekeeping that may damage wild bee conservation through increased competition for limited forage in cities and disease spread. Ultimately multiple ecosystem services must be considered (and measured) to optimize their delivery in urban ecosystems and messaging to promote the value of nature in cities must be made widely available and more clearly defined.

Aim To present characteristics of collecting autologous peripheral blood stem cells over a one-year period with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. Methods A retrograde analysis of 24 leukapheresis in 20 adult patients with malignant haematological diseases in the Blood Transfusion Institute of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, was done. Cell separators Amicus and Spectra Optia were used for collection procedures. Results The patient’s age ranged from 27 to 65 years. Target cells were collected in one procedure in sixteen patients, while in four patients they were collected in two procedures. The mean CD34+ collection efficiency was 57.7%. The median number of CD34+ cells and percentage of CD34+ cells in the products were 5.52x10e6/kg (range 3.28-9.00) and 1.57% (range 0.96-2.91). A strong positive correlation was found between the number of CD34+ cells in peripheral blood on the apheresis day and the amount of CD34+ cells collected in the products (rs=0.73). A total of 95% of patients collected the amount of ≥3x10e6/kg and 55% of ≥5x10e6/kg CD34+ cells for a single transplant. A decrease in platelet count, haemoglobin and haematocrit values after the procedure was not significant. Potassium decrease showed statistical significance (p

Abstract The CONNIE experiment is located at a distance of 30 m from the core of a commercial nuclear reactor, and has collected a 3.7 kg-day exposure using a CCD detector array sensitive to an ∼1 keV threshold for the study of coherent neutrino-nucleus elastic scattering. Here we demonstrate the potential of this low-energy neutrino experiment as a probe for physics Beyond the Standard Model, by using the recently published results to constrain two simplified extensions of the Standard Model with light mediators. We compare the new limits with those obtained for the same models using neutrinos from the Spallation Neutron Source. Our new constraints represent the best limits for these simplified models among the experiments searching for CEνNS for a light vector mediator with mass M Z ′ $$ {M}_{Z^{\prime }} $$ < 10 MeV, and for a light scalar mediator with mass M ϕ < 30 MeV. These results constitute the first use of the CONNIE data as a probe for physics Beyond the Standard Model.

BackgroundThe low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score is a validated questionnaire developed in Denmark to measure the severity of bowel dysfunction after low anterior resection. This retrospective study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the LARS score in the Italian language in a population of Italian patients who underwent low anterior resection for rectal cancer. The convergent and discriminative validity and the test-retest reliability of the score were investigated.MethodsA cohort of two hundred and five patients treated with low anterior resection were enrolled in an Italian high-volume university hospital between January 2000 and April 2018. The Italian version of the LARS score (tested twice), as translated from English original version, a single question on quality of life and the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire were submitted to patients.ResultsA high proportion of patients showed a perfect or moderate fit between the LARS score and QoL categories (convergent validity, p

Questo articolo presenta le pratiche collaborative di apprendimento utilizzate nel corso di Lingua francese 2 per studenti e studentesse della laurea triennale in Lingue, civiltà e scienze del linguaggio del Dipartimento di Studi Linguistici e Culturali Comparati dell’Università Ca’ Foscari Venezia, con particolare riferimento ai corsi tenuti a distanza dalla lettrice e dal titolare del corso durante l’anno accademico 2020/2021. L’obiettivo è mostrare come le possibilità di collaborazione offerte dagli strumenti digitali per l’apprendimento delle lingue possano prolungare il lavoro svolto e possano a questo scopo essere produttivamente integrate negli insegnamenti ben oltre la necessità delle lezioni a distanza imposte dalla pandemia. Idealmente, questo dovrebbe permettere a studenti e studentesse di gestire l’apprendimento in modo autonomo e indipendente, pur con l’apporto del docente, sapendo riconoscere anche le proprie mancanze attraverso il confronto tra pari, da intendersi come strumento costruttivo di conoscenze comuni e individuali.

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