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A study on the impact of granivorous birds on rice yield was carried out at the Bokonzi High School of Agricultural Studies, located in the Sud-Ubangi province in Democratic Republic of Congo.The aim of the study was to evaluate the yield deficit of rice in husk, due to the birds in study area. The results showed that the rate of deficit due to the birds is 4.67% for fields kept on surveillanceand 28.35% without surveillance (about 16.1% of yield/ha). According of the current price of dry paddy in this area, the yield deficit of rice in value is respectively 28.35 USD and 167 USD with an average of 97.83USD of deficit/ha. This loss of yield constitutesan important economic and social deficit for the rice culture practitioners.

Sickle cell disease is characterized by chronic hemolytic anemia and vascular inflammation, which can diminish the vasodilatory capacity of the small resistance arteries, making them less adept at regulating cerebral blood flow. Autoregulation maintains adequate oxygen delivery, but when vasodilation is maximized, the low arterial oxygen content can lead to ischemia and silent cerebral infarcts. We used magnetic resonance imaging of cerebral blood flow to quantify whole-brain cerebrovascular reserve in 36 adult patients with sickle cell disease (mean age, 31.9±11.3 years) and 11 healthy controls (mean age, 37.4±15.4 years), and we used high-resolution 3D FLAIR magnetic resonance imaging to determine the prevalence of silent cerebral infarcts. Cerebrovascular reserve was calculated as the percentage change in cerebral blood flow after a hemodynamic challenge with acetazolamide. Co-registered lesion maps were used to demonstrate prevalent locations for silent cerebral infarcts. Cerebral blood flow was elevated in patients with sickle cell disease compared to controls (median [interquartile range]: 82.8 [20.1] vs. 51.3 [4.8] mL/100g/min, P

Une étude de l’impact des oiseaux granivores sur le rendement du riz pluvial (Oryza sativa) en culture pure a été conduite à l’Institut Supérieur d’Études Agronomiques (ISEA) de Bokonzi, dans la province du Sud-Ubangi, en République Démocratique du Congo. L’objectif principal de cette étude était d’évaluer les déficits des rendements de la culture pluviale du riz, causés par les oiseaux granivores dans la zone d’étude. Les résultats des analyses statistiques démontrent que le taux de déperdition dû à l’action des oiseaux est de 4,67 % dans les champs surveillés et de 28,3 % dans les champs non surveillés, soit une perte moyenne à l’hectare de 16,1 % de rendement. Ceci traduit une perte respective équivalant à 28,3 USD et 167 USD, soit en moyenne 97,8 USD/ha. Ces pertes constituent un déficit socio-économique important pour les riziculteurs. MOTS-CLEFS: Oryza sativa, Oiseaux granivores, Surveillance, Rendement, République démocratique du Congo.

Dreissenid mussels arrived at the Waverly Shoal located above the inflow of the Niagara River in 1989, initiating marked changes in the water and sediment chemistry, and benthic invertebrate community composition at an Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks monitoring station. Here we examine change in the nearshore of eastern Lake Erie until 2019, inferred from monitoring at this station. Dreissenid numbers peaked in 1991, exceeding 200,000 individual m-2, and remained above 20,000 individual m-2 until 2004 after which numbers progressively declined. In 1993, the population transitioned from mixed Dreissena polymorpha and D. bugensis, to D. bugensis in subsequent years. The decrease in particle size and increase in organic content of surficial sediment which began the year after mussel arrival has persisted until present time. The low concentrations of trace metals and PAHs at the station increased slightly after the physical alteration in bed sediments and has either not changed or declined. After an initial increase in Secchi depth, water clarity changed little over post invasion years, with prevailing moderate water clarity interspersed with periods of bed resuspension and high turbidity. Calcium concentration in the water column, which fell dramatically after the arrival of dreissenids, has gradually increased in recent years. Chlorophyll a and total phosphorus levels indicating oligo-mesotrophic conditions have not varied systematically over the years, other than a modest decline in chlorophyll a after dreissenid arrival. Benthic invertebrate assemblages have gone through multiple alterations, with shifting abundance of amphipods, oligochaetes, chironomids, gastropods and sphaeriids attributed to invasive species rather than the physical environment. Collectively, the data suggests the nearshore ecosystem has shifted in benthic productivity and trophic transfers mediated by the benthos and invasive species, with water and sediment quality appearing to not vary beyond the range driven by inherently fluctuating physical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) is a life-threatening clotting disorder mediated by pathogenic autoantibodies. Here we dissect the origin of self-reactive B cells in human PAPS using peripheral blood and bone marrow of patients with triple-positive PAPS via combined single-cell RNA sequencing, B cell receptors (BCR) repertoire profiling, CITEseq analysis and single cell immortalization. We find that antiphospholipid (aPL)-specific B cells are present in the naive compartment, polyreactive, and derived from the natural repertoire. Furthermore, B cells with aPL specificities are not eliminated in patients with PAPS, persist until the memory and long-lived plasma cell stages, likely after defective germinal center selection, while becoming less polyreactive. Lastly, compared with the non-PAPS cells, PAPS B cells exhibit distinct IFN and APRIL signature as well as dysregulated mTORC1 and MYC pathways. Our findings may thus elucidate the survival mechanisms of these autoreactive B cells and suggest potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of PAPS.

The formation of defects, due to drying, in robocasted ceramic objects is an important issue arising from non-uniform shrinkage of the material during this step in the process. Common methods for shrinkage measurement are not well suited to the small size of robocasted cords or the complexity of robocasted objects. Innovative methods for shrinkage measurement were developed using non-destructive optical vision techniques with computer-controlled data acquisition, allowing measurement on millimetric cords and on specific zones of a product. The study of a single porcelain cord revealed an anisometric shrinkage related to the orientation of grains during extrusion. A differential shrinkage at the macroscopic scale was also measured on a robocasted object, indicating a moisture content gradient in the material. The methods presented in this paper are of particular relevance to real-time control of the drying process for robocasted objects.

Abstract An under-recognised aspect of the current humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is the impact of the war on the environment and the associated risks for human health. This commentary contextualises these impacts against the background of human suffering produced by the overwhelming violence associated with the use of military force against the general population of Gaza. In calling for an immediate cessation to the violence, the authors draw attention to the urgent need to rebuild the health care system and restore the physical and human infrastructure that makes a liveable environment possible and promotes human health and well-being, especially for the most vulnerable in the population. Environmental remediation should therefore form one of the most important parts of international efforts to assist reconstruction, through which we hope Palestinians and Israelis will achieve lasting peace, health, and sustainable development, all as part of accepted international human rights obligations.

Background Telerehabilitation (TR), a branch of telemedicine, provides remote therapeutic rehabilitation through telecommunication. Driven by technological advances and benefits like remote monitoring and patient education, it has grown since 1998. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted its importance in maintaining healthcare access. Research question What is the efficacy of TR compared to in-person rehabilitation? Are the assessment tools effective? Is TR well-accepted, and are costs reduced? Methods A bibliographic search on Medline, Cochrane and Google Scholar focused on systematic reviews (SRs) from 2014 to Mai 2024, comparing TR or home-based rehabilitation with in person treatments for various conditions. Independent reviewers conducted initial screenings, resolving disagreements by a third reviewer. Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to evaluate the quality of review. The data was synthesised narratively. Results The search identified 665 SRs. After selection, 228 SR were included. TR models include synchronous (real-time video interactions), asynchronous (independent sessions through digital platforms) and mixed methods. Regardless of the medical fields, the conclusions of the SRs consistently point to the equivalence of TR compared to in-person rehabilitation. Remote evaluations via digital tools were reliable and valid for various assessments. TR is cost effectiveness and well accepted. Conclusions TR is a viable alternative or complement to traditional rehabilitation, offering enhanced accessibility, reduced costs and improved results. Barriers include technical issues, training and concerns about lack of physical contact. Mixed methods could address these challenges.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate users’ driving performances with a Power Wheelchair (PWC) driving simulator in comparison to the same driving task in real conditions with a standard power wheelchair. Methods Three driving circuits of progressive difficulty levels (C1, C2, C3) that were elaborated to assess the driving performances with PWC in indoor situations, were used in this study. These circuits have been modeled in a 3D Virtual Environment to replicate the three driving task scenarios in Virtual Reality (VR). Users were asked to complete the three circuits with respect to two testing conditions during three successive sessions, i.e. in VR and on a real circuit (R). During each session, users completed the two conditions. Driving performances were evaluated using the number of collisions and time to complete the circuit. In addition, driving ability by Wheelchair Skill Test (WST) and mental load were assessed in both conditions. Cybersickness, user satisfaction and sense of presence were measured in VR. The conditions R and VR were randomized. Results Thirty-one participants with neurological disorders and expert wheelchair drivers were included in the study. The driving performances between VR and R conditions were statistically different for the C3 circuit but were not statistically different for the two easiest circuits C1 and C2. The results of the WST was not statistically different in C1, C2 and C3. The mental load was higher in VR than in R condition. The general sense of presence was reported as acceptable (mean value of 4.6 out of 6) for all the participants, and the cybersickness was reported as acceptable (SSQ mean value of 4.25 on the three circuits in VR condition). Conclusion Driving performances were statistically different in the most complicated circuit C3 with an increased number of collisions in VR, but were not statistically different for the two easiest circuits C1 and C2 in R and VR conditions. In addition, there were no significant adverse effects such as cybersickness. The results show the value of the simulator for driving training applications. Still, the mental load was higher in VR than in R condition, thus mitigating the potential for use with people with cognitive disorders. Further studies should be conducted to assess the quality of skill transfer for novice drivers from the simulator to the real world. Trial registration Ethical approval n $$^\circ$$ ∘ 2019-A001306-51 from Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud Mediterranée IV. Trial registered the 19/11/2019 on ClinicalTrials.gov in ID: NCT04171973.

ABSTRACTThe aim of this study is to chemically, physically, and mechanically characterize Grewia bicolor (GB) fibers harvested in the NGONG locality located in the North Cameroon region for potential use in the elaboration of tannin matrix composites. The fibers are extracted from three zones of the stem (top (T), middle (M), and bottom (B)) by biological retting with stagnant water, and the various standard norms are respected for different tests. Analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and chemical composition show that GB fibers consist mainly of cellulose (50.73–53.67%), hemicellulose (20.95–24.73%), and lignin (14.26–17.26%). Physical properties give: true density (1.33–1.35 g/cm3), bulk density (0.61–0.72 g/cm3), porosity (48.37–51.4%), linear density (17.28–29.44 tex), water content (13.16–13.59%), water absorption rate (121.86–134.54%), and a moisture recovery rate at 75% relative humidity (11.12–11.76%). Mechanical parameters give Young’s modulus (17.21–29.56 GPa), stress at break (504.71–936.09 MPa), and strain at break (4.65–5.37%). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) combined with Tukey’s test for mechanical properties show that the bottom and middle fibers are identical at the 95% confidence level. GB fibers can be used in the reinforcement of tannin matrix composites with preferable and indiscriminate sampling in the bottom and middle zones of the stem.

Robocasting stands as a pertinent additive manufacturing technique for producing intricate ceramic parts. Amidst stricter environmental regulations, the adoption of natural additives becomes imperative. This study investigates the influence of plant-based additives on the rheology and printability of eco-friendly pastes.Various 50 vol%-alumina pastes were formulated using natural binders, plasticizers and dispersants (e.g., lignosulfonate, polysaccharides, glycerol) and then assessed through oscillation and flow rheological analyses. Paste viscosity and rigidity often deviated from printability maps reported in the literature, showing the complexity of defining universal printability criteria. A comprehensive investigation was conducted on the water retention capabilities of additives, liquid phase migration and paste drying kinetics.This paper highlights the critical importance of constraining liquid phase migration within eco-friendly ceramic pastes and the crucial role of polymer chain reorientation under shear. Consequently, this research lays diversifying formulations, offering sustainable solutions for industrial ceramic applications.

Abstract Background In low- and middle-income countries countries, millions of deaths occur annually from household air pollution (HAP), pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), and HIV-infection. However, it is unknown whether HAP influences PTB risk among people living with HIV-infection. Methods We conducted a case-control study among 1,277 HIV-infected adults in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (February 2018 – March 2019). Cases had current or recent (3h/day and ≥2 times/day and ≥5 days/week were more likely to have PTB (aOR 1·36; 95%CI 1·06-1·75) than those spending less time in the kitchen. Time-weighted average 24h personal CO exposure was related dose-dependently with the likelihood of having PTB, with aOR 4·64 (95%CI 1·1-20·7) for the highest quintile [12·3-76·2 ppm] compared to the lowest quintile [0·1-1·9 ppm]. Conclusion Time spent cooking and personal CO exposure were independently associated with increased risk of PTB among people living with HIV. Considering the high burden of TB-HIV coinfection in the region, effective interventions are required to decrease HAP exposure caused by cooking with biomass among people living with HIV, especially women.

Objective: Tumour progression drives profound alterations in host metabolism, such as adipose tissue depletion, an early event of cancer cachexia. As fatty acid consumption by cancer cells increases upon acidosis of the tumour microenvironment, we reasoned that fatty acids derived from distant adipose lipolysis may sustain tumour fatty acid craving, leading to the adipose tissue loss observed in cancer cachexia. Methods: To evaluate the pro-lipolytic capacities of acid-exposed cancer cells, primary mouse adipocytes from subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue were exposed to pH-matched conditioned medium from human and murine acid-exposed cancer cells (pH 6.5), compared to naive cancer cells (pH 7.4). To further address the role of tumoral acidosis on adipose tissue loss, a pH-low insertion peptide was injected into tumour-bearing mice, and tumoral acidosis was neutralised with a sodium bicarbonate buffer. Prolipolytic mediators were identified by transcriptomic approaches and validated on murine and human adipocytes. Results: Here, we reveal that acid-exposed cancer cells promote lipolysis from subcutaneous and visceral adipocytes and that dampening acidosis in vivo inhibits adipose tissue depletion. We further found a set of well-known prolipolytic factors enhanced upon acidosis adaptation and unravelled a role for β-glucuronidase (GUSB) as a promising new actor in adipocyte lipolysis. Conclusions: Tumoral acidosis promotes the mobilization of fatty acids derived from adipocytes via the release of soluble factors by cancer cells. Our work paves the way for therapeutic approaches aimed at tackling cachexia by targeting the tumour acidic compartment.

The pine processionary moth Thaumetopoea pityocampa is a defoliating lepidopter that develops during winter. The larvae are gregarious and bear urticating setae that are harmful to humans and vertebrates. They shelter in conspicuous silk tents that are easy to detect. We here present a dataset comprising tree characterization and tent counts from 3 agglomerations in France located in regions with different climatic environments. The studied trees belong to various conifer species that are potential hosts for the caterpillars. In each site, we defined clusters as one target tree and its 10–62 nearest neighbors, and surveyed each tree within the clusters by informing: tree species, coordinates, size, number of tents. We characterized a total of 3690 trees, including 2009 trees in Orléans (grouped in 68 clusters), 359 trees in La Baule (18 clusters) and 1322 trees in Montpellier (52 clusters). We provide the raw data characterizing each individual tree, graphs showing the prevalence and mean number of tents for the tree species included in the survey, and maps allowing to locate each tree. This dataset brings information about host preference of the pine processionary moth and will be useful as a baseline to study spatio-temporal variability of host-insect relationships. It can also be informative for decision-makers and managers of urban greenings to avoid trees that are likely to be heavily infested for plantation in proximity to vulnerable people.

Drying is a crucial stage in many ceramic processing routes with two major issues. First, it may lead to warping or cracks that can be detrimental to the product quality, and second it requires a significant amount of energy input. This is increasingly becoming a major concern in the traditional ceramic industry. After reviewing the basic concepts in drying of ceramics, this article presents recent trends from the state of the art and discusses some future perspectives. The discussion covers both fundamental aspects of the drying behaviour of ceramics and also more technological ones related to processing and setting of the drying conditions. The contribution of modelling to the study of drying is also discussed. Finally, we present a novel approach based on machine learning that can help to control the drying process by identifying the end of the shrinkage stage from real time observations taken with an optical camera.

The implementation of the Variable Energy (VE) feature in the previously fixed-energy IBA Cyclone® Kiube cyclotron is presented as an upgrade enabling the production of novel radioisotopes with improved radionuclidic purity and production yields. The possibility of easily decreasing the energy of the extracted proton beam, from 18 down to 13 MeV, allows us to avoid the use of degraders and/or thick target windows, thus preventing related beam current limitations. The immediate application of the Variable Energy feature is proven by presenting the improved results obtained for the production of 68Ga from the irradiation of liquid targets simultaneously in terms of radionuclidic purity and activity produced.

Abstract Background While outcomes after spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SP-DP) have been widely reported, impacts on splenic parenchyma have not been well studied. This study aimed to compare postoperative outcomes, particularly spleen-related outcomes, by assessing splenic imaging after SP-DP with or without splenic vessels removal. Methods Data for all patients who underwent SP-DP with splenic vessels removal (Warshaw technique, WDP) or preservation (Kimura technique, KDP) between 2010 and 2022 in two tertiary centres were retrospectively analysed. Splenic ischemia and volume at early/late imaging and postoperative outcomes were reviewed. Results Eighty-seven patients were included, 51 in the WDP and 36 in the KDP groups. Median Charlson’s Comorbidity Index was significantly higher in the WDP group compared with the KDP group. Postoperative morbidity was similar between groups. There was more splenic ischemia at early imaging in the WDP group compared to the KDP group (55% vs. 14%, p = 0.018), especially severe ischemia (23% vs. 0%). Partial splenic atrophy was observed in 29% and 0% in the WDP and KDP groups, respectively (p = 0.002); no complete splenic atrophy was observed. Platelet levels at POD 1, 2 and 6 were significantly higher in the WDP group compared to KDP group. At univariate analysis, age, Charlson Comorbidity Index, platelet levels at POD 6, and early splenic infarction were prognostic factors for development of splenic atrophy. No episodes of overwhelming post-splenectomy infection or secondary splenectomy were recorded after a median follow-up of 9 and 11 months in the WDP and KDP groups, respectively. Conclusions Splenic ischemia appeared in one-half of patients undergoing SP-DP with splenic vessels removal at early imaging, and partial splenic atrophy in almost 30% at late imaging, without clinical impact or complete splenic atrophy. Age, Charlson Comorbidity Index, platelet levels at POD 6, and early splenic infarction could help to predict the occurrence of splenic atrophy.

Abstract Stability is a key indicator of the efficiency of the gas metal arc welding operation, and it is linked to other quality indicators like spattering and weld formation. This study describes methods of assessing arc stability for selected gas metal arc welding (GMAW) conditions. It focuses on stability characterization and defines the relationship between process stability and influencing factors. Welding tests were performed using two selected transfer modes the spray and the pulse transfer modes to characterize stability and develop processes further for better overall performance. This scope of parameters was selected to simulate certain range of stability behavior, so it was possible to analyze the factors correlated to stability, their relevance in influencing stability, and consequently to define a calculation algorithm for the determination of stability. Also, stability was calculated and scored based on two scoring indices. With a higher voltage, disturbance levels were noticed to reduce as in the case of 29 V, 31.5 V, and 32.5 V with 32.5 V showing better stability to spattering, smoothness, repeatability, and regularity of the process. Actual values of positive and negative voltage peaks, voltage amplitudes, and their average values and standard deviations in selected analyzed time showed to be relevant indicators to characterize stability of the process. Variations of indicated voltage signals related to explosions showed to have complex patterns in terms of their waveforms. So, all these were analyzed step by step and consequently selected for characterization in the welding conditions that were selected in the scope of this study.

The specific properties and availability of banana pseudo-trunk fibers make them a promising alternative for the development of green composites. However, the wide dispersion of their properties can hinder their use. In this study, the influence of the sampling area of the banana pseudo-trunk on the physical and mechanical properties of the fibers was evaluated. Prior to retting, the trunk was sampled longitudinally (bottom, middle and top) and transversely (periphery, intermediate and heart). Gravimetric tests were carried out and revealed variations in water absorption (347.1–517.4%), density (0.92–1.45 g.cm−3) and linear mass (25 -34tex). Tensile tests were also performed and showed a significant effect of fiber location on Young’s modulus (6.60–34.6GPa), tensile strength (91-350MPa) and elongation at the break (0.9–2.6%). Due to diameter scatter, variations of 42% were found for fibers in the same area. In a region, the physical properties increase from the periphery to the core, and the mechanical properties decrease in the same direction, except for elongation. The results of this study showed good agreement with those of other natural fiber types. However, we recommend the peripheral areas of the pseudo-trunk to extract reinforcing fibers from composites because of their low density (0.9 g.cm−3) and their high stiffness (34GPa).

The objective of this paper is to extract the hulls of Hyphaene thebaica fruit to elaborate a composite material with polyester matrix and to characterize it physically and mechanically. The first step of the process consisted of crushing, drying and then physically characterizing the hulls. The obtained results show that the average density is 766 kg/m3, the kinetic of water absorption is 40.39% and the average kinetic of humidity is 9.23%. The second step of the process consisted of crushing and sieving the hulls in order to classify them in four different sizes, and then proceeding to the manufacture of panels according to the different sizes of particles and different dosages. Another phase of characterisation has thus been achieved and the following results have been obtained: general theoretical density is 1275.86 kg/m3; average apparent density is 0.892 g/cm3, and the average density of the shells is 0.766 g/cm3. The average porosity rate obtained is 0.3%. As for the mechanical characteristics obtained by the three-point bending, the results on the average flexural modulus of elasticity (MOE) are presented as follows: 3400 ± 511 MPa for 10%–90% and size 0.5–2.5 mm, 4100± 320 MPa for 15%–85% size less than 0.5 mm; 5730± 212 MPa for 30%–70% size 0.5–2.5 mm; 6510± 211 MPa for 15%–85% size 0.5–2.5 mm; 5880± 110 MPa for 30%–70% size less than 0.5 mm. The corresponding flexural breaking strength (MOR) are respectively: 12.8± 0.2 MPa; 13.5± 0.2 MPa; 12.0± 0.5 MPa; 10.8± 0.2 MPa and 13.8± 0.3 MPa. The methods used in this work are experimental. These results allowed to deduce that the composites elaborated are particleboard type P2 and have the advantage to be used as panels useable in furniture, thermal and acoustic insulation and as structural materials. Thus, it is also possible to use it as an abrasive aggregate for sanding. All prepared particleboards had exterior and interior quality capabilities, for both working and non-working environments. It is also possible to use it as an abrasive aggregate for sanding.

Abstract Background Existing research on perceptions of plagiarism and cultural influences mainly focuses on comparisons between the Western World and the Eastern World. However, possible differences within the Western World have hardly been assessed, especially among biomedical academics. The authors compared perceptions of plagiarism among European biomedical researchers who participated in an online survey. Methods The present work is based on the data collected in a previous online survey done in 2018 among biomedical researchers working in leading European and Chinese universities. Respondents based in Europe were grouped into three geographical regions (northern Europe, southern Europe and northwestern Europe) and their responses were analyzed using logistic regression analysis with adjustments for demographic factors. Results Data were available from 810 respondents (265 northern Europe, 101 southern Europe, 444 northwestern Europe). In addition to their generally similar responses, different perceptions of plagiarism were observed among respondents in the three European regions. In summary, among the three European regions, Nordic respondents identified the most types of practices as plagiarism. Compared to the southern respondents, Nordic and northwestern respondents were more likely to consider less evident practices as plagiarism, such as Rephrasing another person’s work without crediting the source [aORN|S 1.99 (95%CI 1.08;3.67), aORS|NW 0.50 (95%CI 0.28;0.91)] and With permission from the original author, using another’s text without crediting the source [aORN|S 3.16 (95%CI 1.90;5.25), aORS|NW 0.26 (95%CI 0.16;0.42)]. In contrast, the southern respondents were the most inclined to recognize recycling of one’s previously rejected research proposal as plagiarism. Conclusions In spite of a generally similar response pattern, the present study indicates different perceptions of plagiarism among European biomedical researchers. These intra-European differences should be considered when addressing plagiarism.

The paper focuses on the submerged arc welding (SAW) process in application to structures for Arctic conditions. One of the technical challenges for modern Arctic structures is to produce high-quality welds since a weld is usually the weakest part of any structure. Welding is especially difficult for the high strength steels (HSS), which are used in structures for weight-reduction purposes. The objective of the study is to explore the usability, development possibilities and parameters of SAW process for welding of thick cold-resistant HSS plates. Meeting this objective required in-depth understanding of the welding and material science background, which includes the quality requirements of weld joints intended for Arctic service as described in various standards, properties of cold-resistant HSS and description of testing methods used to validate welding joints for low temperature conditions. The study describes experimental findings that improve understanding of SAW process of thick quenched and tempered (QT) and thermo-mechanically processed (TMCP) HSS plates. Experiments were conducted to develop SAW procedures to weld several thick (exceeding 25 mm) high strengths (580–650 MPa tensile strength) cold-resistant (intended operational temperature at least −40 ℃) steel grades. The welds were evaluated by a wide range of industrial tests: analyses of chemical, microstructural and mechanical properties; hardness tests; and cold resistance evaluation tests: the Charpy V-notch impact test and the Crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) test. Acceptable welding parameters and recommendations were developed, and the results of the experiments show that high quality welds can be obtained using heat input up to 3.5 kJ/mm.

Abstract Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) takes place under extreme conditions with a lack of occupational health and safety. As the demand for metals is increasing due in part to their extensive use in ‘green technologies’ for climate change mitigation, the negative environmental and occupational consequences of mining practices are disproportionately felt in low- and middle-income countries. The Collegium Ramazzini statement on ASM presents updated information on its neglected health hazards that include multiple toxic hazards, most notably mercury, lead, cyanide, arsenic, cadmium, and cobalt, as well as physical hazards, most notably airborne dust and noise, and the high risk of infectious diseases. These hazards affect both miners and mining communities as working and living spaces are rarely separated. The impact on children and women is often severe, including hazardous exposures during the child-bearing age and pregnancies, and the risk of child labor. We suggest strategies for the mitigation of these hazards and classify those according to primordial, primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Further, we identify knowledge gaps and issue recommendations for international, national, and local governments, metal purchasers, and employers are given. With this statement, the Collegium Ramazzini calls for the extension of efforts to minimize all hazards that confront ASM miners and their families.

Neck formation and densification during sintering have strong effects on the thermal conductivity of a porous ceramic body. This has been described by an analytical model using grain conductivity, grain size, pore fraction and particle – particle contact area as input parameters. It has been tested on hydroxyapatite ceramics sintered with conventional, microwave and spark plasma techniques. The green bodies containing at least 40% porosity yield conductivity values in the range 0.24–0.29 Wm−1K−1. Neck formation in the initial stage of sintering increases the values to above 0.5 Wm−1K−1. Further increase is achieved by densification, well described by Landauer's relation as part of the model with close agreement to experiment for hydroxyapatite ceramics containing 40 to 5% porosity. An evaluation of thermal conductivity for 100% dense hydroxyapatite gives a value of 1.5 Wm−1K−1 which is almost constant between room temperature and 900 °C.

Floristico - physiognomic and dendrometric reference for monitoring the dynamics of the vegetation and habitats of the Ruvubu National Park (Burundi) The aim of this study is to improve the knowledge of the flora of the Ruvubu National Park and to characterize the dynamics of its habitats through the interpretation of the ecological spectra of the vegetation and the predominant abiotic factors in this park. Sampling was conducted on 31 permanent plots along 4 transects, one per administrative sector of the park. The study distinguishes 10 vegetation entities subdivided into 31 elementary vegetation types, i.e. as many corresponding habitats. In terms of flora, 563 species divided into 315 genera and 97 families were inventoried. The cosmopolitan families (Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Poaceae) dominate. The analysis of biological spectra shows a predominance of phanerophytes and hemicryptophytes. Phytogeographically, the flora of this park is the result of an interpenetration of the Zambezi and Eastern domains. The physiognomic and structural characteristics reflect a vegetation influenced essentially by annual bush fires. The absence of these fires, especially late in the season, could lead to a resumption of progressive habitat dynamics in this park. The baselines outputed in this article will facilitate the strengthening of a system for monitoring the dynamics of habitats that is has been undertaken in protected areas in Burundi.

Abstract Education of young researchers has been proposed as a way to promote research integrity. However, the effectiveness of research integrity education on PhD students is unknown. In a longitudinal design, we surveyed over 1000 starting PhD students from various disciplines regarding knowledge, attitude and behaviour before, immediately after and 3 months after a compulsory 3-h course given by a panel of experts. Compared with a control group who did not follow the course, the course recipients showed significant (multivariate analysis) but modest improvements in knowledge and attitude scores immediately after the course, but not after 3 months; a prolonged impact was apparent regarding behaviour. Moreover, the course spurred 93% of PhD students to have conversations about research integrity and 79% declared applying the content of the course. Among other interventions, formal education in research integrity may contribute to foster a climate of research integrity in academia.

Abstract Objectives The objective of this study is to highlight the effect of a robotic driver assistance module of powered wheelchair (PWC), using infrared sensors and accessorizing a commercial wheelchair) on the reduction of the number of collisions in standardized circuit in a population with neurological disorders by comparing driving performance with and without assistance. Methods This is a prospective, single-center, controlled, repeated measure design, single-blind pilot study including patients with neurological disabilities who are usual drivers of electric wheelchairs. The main criterion for evaluating the device is the number of collisions with and without the assistance of a prototype anti-collision system on three circuits of increasing complexity. Travel times, cognitive load, driving performance, and user satisfaction are also analyzed. Results 23 Patients, 11 women and 12 men with a mean age of 48 years old completed the study. There was a statistically significant reduction in the number of collisions on the most complex circuit: 61% experienced collisions without assistance versus 39% with assistance (p = 0.038). Conclusion This study concludes that the PWC driving assistance module is efficient in terms of safety without reducing the speed of movement in a population of people with disabilities who are habitual wheelchair drivers. The prospects are therefore to conduct tests on a target population with driving failure or difficulty who could benefit from this device so as to allow them to travel independently and safely.

The emerging SARS-CoV-2 virus has affected the entire world with over 600 million confirmed cases and 6.5 million deaths as of September 2022. Since the beginning of the pandemic, several variants of SARS-CoV-2 have emerged, with different infectivity and virulence. Several studies suggest an important role of neutrophils in SARS-Cov-2 infection severity, but data about direct activation of neutrophils by the virus is scarce. Here, we studied the in vitro activation of human neutrophils by SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs). In our work, we show that upon stimulation with SARS-Cov-2 infectious particles, human healthy resting neutrophils upregulate activation markers, degranulate IL-8, produce Reactive Oxygen Species and release Neutrophil Extracellular Traps. Neutrophil activation was dependent on TLR7/8 and IRF3/STING. We then compared the activation potential of neutrophils by SARS-CoV-2 variants and showed a significantly increased activation by the Delta variant and a decreased activation by the Omicron variant as compared to the initial strain. In this study, we demonstrate that the SARS-Cov-2 virus can directly activate neutrophils in COVID-19 and that the different VOCs had differences in neutrophil activation intensity that mirror the differences of clinical severity. These data highlight the need to address neutrophil-virus interactions as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Levodopa is routinely co-administered with carbidopa in the management of Parkinson’s disease. Although the aforementioned combination therapy is effective, there may be fluctuating plasma levels of levodopa after oral administration. We formulated and evaluated the kinetic characteristics of the chitosan-pectin-based multiparticulate matrix of levodopa and carbidopa. Pectin was extracted from the cocoa husk, and the chitosan-pectin-based matrix was prepared by wet granulation. Formulations were evaluated for drug-excipient compatibility, drug content, precompression properties and in vitro release. For pharmacokinetic evaluation, rats were put into groups and administered either chitosan-pectin based matrix of levodopa/carbidopa, Sinemet® CR or levodopa/carbidopa immediate release powder. Rats were administered the different formulations of levodopa/carbidopa (20/5 mg/kg) per os every 12 hours. The pharmacokinetic parameters of levodopa were estimated for the various treatment groups. The percentage content of levodopa and carbidopa in the various formulations was within the acceptance criteria. The AUC0-24 for levodopa/carbidopa multiparticulate matrix (Formulation 3: 484.98 ± 18.70 µg.hr/mL); Formulation 4: 535.60 ± 33.04 µg.hr/mL), and Cmax (Formulation 3: 36.28 ± 1.52 μg/mL; Formulation 4: 34.80 ± 2.19 μg/mL) were higher than Sinemet® CR (AUC0-24 262.84 ± 16.73 µg.hr/mL and Cmax 30.62 ± 3.37 μg/mL). The t1/2 of the new formulation was longer compared to Sinemet® CR.

Medium Density Insulating Boards, based on vermiculite, are used for the insulating lining of ladles in steel production. In service, carbon monoxide is generated from oxidation of neighbouring Magnesia – Carbon bricks and diffuses through the refractory brick lining to deposit carbon in the colder insulating lining via the Boudouard reaction. Characterization by laser flash and hot disk measurements of original and post-mortem samples reveals an approximate increase by 26% in the overall thermal conductivity of the board to 0.34 W m−1 K−1 at room temperature following 15 months service. This is attributed to carbon and chloride phases detected by X-ray fluorescence and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in the outermost zone of the board, cut into three zones for analysis along the heat flow direction. The increase in thermal conductivity is reduced to 17% when the thermal gradient in service conditions is considered.