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The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of ambience and aesthetics on tourist–tourist interaction and the effects of tourist–tourist interaction on a sense of belonging, intention to recommend, and satisfaction in accommodation establishments. The study was carried out based on the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model. The study was conducted in 5-star hotels in Istanbul/Turkey. Data were collected from 392 tourists staying in these hotels through a survey. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data obtained. The results of the study reveal that ambience and aesthetics have a significant effect on tourist–tourist interaction in accommodation establishments. It was also found that tourist–tourist interactions have a significant effect on the sense of belonging, intention to recommend, and satisfaction. This study provides contributions to the important field of tourist–tourist interaction, and accordingly fills a gap in the literature.

Carbonaceous materials have gained significant attention in recent years for their various applications in the field of medicine and biotechnology. This comprehensive review explores the synthesis and characterization of carbon-based materials and their potentials in various medical applications. The paper delves into the methods of fabrication of carbon-based nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes, biochar, and graphene, while highlighting their unique properties. Characterization techniques, such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and surface analysis, are discussed to provide insights into the chemical and structural properties of these materials. Furthermore, the review examined their wide-ranging medical applications, encompassing tissue engineering, drug delivery, biosensing, and imaging, showcasing the versatility and promising contributions of carbonaceous materials in the healthcare industry. The review outlines the current challenges and prospects in the field, emphasizing the growing significance of carbon-based materials as valuable tools in advancing medical science and technology, as well as public health.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been a global pandemic affecting millions of people’s lives, which has led to ‘post-COVID-19 fatigue’. Alarmingly, severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) not only infects the lungs but also influences the heart and brain. Endothelial cell dysfunction and hypercoagulation, which we know occur with this infection, lead to thrombo-inflammation that can manifest as many myriad cardio-cerebrovascular disorders, such as brain fog, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, etc. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 has been associated with oxidative stress, protein aggregation, cytokine storm, and mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases. Accordingly, the identification of molecular targets involved in these actions could provide strategies for preventing and treating this disease. In particular, the very common enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) has recently been identified as a candidate co-receptor for the cell entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with its involvement in infection. In addition, DPPIV has been reported as a co-receptor for some viruses such as Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (MERS-CoV). It mediates immunologic reactions and diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hypertension, which have been considered the prime risk factors for stroke among other types of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases. Unlike angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), DPPIV has been implicated in aggravating the course of infection due to its disruptive effect on inflammatory signaling networks and the neuro–glia–vascular unit. Regarding the neurological, physiological, and molecular grounds governing post-COVID-19 fatigue, this review focuses on DPPIV as one of such reasons that progressively establishes cerebrovascular grievances following SARS-CoV infection.

This study presents a new charging system with lattice compensation for wireless power transfer (WPT) applications. A mathematical model is developed for the proposed system to accurately estimate power transfer capabilities. Furthermore, a linear programming algorithm is used to find the proper values for lattice compensation, which helps achieve high efficiency over a wide range of loads and zero voltage switching (ZVS) for the proposed system. The approach is validated through analysis, modeling, and simulation of a 3-kilowatt WPT system. Additionally, a 200-watt prototype with a 100 mm air gap was built and tested, showing an efficiency of 86.3% during charging. This method eliminates the need for an auxiliary DC–DC converter, ensuring efficient charging across various load conditions. The prototype’s performance closely matches the simulation results, indicating its potential for scaling up to electric vehicle (EV) battery charging applications.

(1) Background: The literature has demonstrated several pathways that link obesity with stress. Thus, new approaches to weight management programs must also integrate health coaching and telemonitoring for overall health and wellbeing. This study aimed to measure stress, anxiety, and depression scales (DASS-21) in overweight and obese participants who joined a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) and the association between changes in DASS-21 scores and changes in anthropometric measures. (2) Methods: Fifty participants were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial and divided into two groups: the intervention group, which received a hypocaloric diet remotely, weekly telemonitoring, and monthly telehealth coaching, and the control group, which only followed a hypocaloric diet without any support. The Arabic version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) was used. (3) Results: The data reveal that participants from the intervention group exhibited a significant decrease in the anxiety scale after 3 months compared with the control group. In addition, the correlations between depression, anxiety, stress, and all anthropometric measures in the intervention group showed a moderately significant positive correlation between changes in waist circumference and depression. (4) Conclusions: The findings confirm that integrating health coaching and telemonitoring can improve wellbeing and weight loss.

Monitoring sugarcane phenology is essential since the globalized market requires reliable information on the quantity of raw materials for the industrial production of sugar and alcohol. In this context, the general objective of this study was to evaluate the phenological seasonality of the sugarcane varieties SP 79-1011 and VAP 90-212 observed from the NDVI time series over 19 years (2001–2020) from global databases. In addition, this research had the following specific objectives: (i) to estimate phenological parameters (Start of Season (SOS), End of Season (EOS), Length of Season (LOS), and Peak of Season (POS)) using TIMESAT software in version 3.3 applied to the NDVI time series over 19 years; (ii) to characterize the land use and land cover obtained from the MapBiomas project; (iii) to analyze rainfall variability; and (iv) to validate the sugarcane harvest date (SP 79-1011). This study was carried out in sugarcane growing areas in Juazeiro, Bahia, Brazil. The results showed that the NDVI time series did not follow the rainfall in the region. The sugarcane areas advanced over the savanna formation (Caatinga), reducing them to remnants along the irrigation channels. The comparison of the observed harvest dates of the SP 79-1011 variety to the values estimated with the TIMESAT software showed an excellent fit of 0.99. The mean absolute error in estimating the sugarcane harvest date was approximately ten days, with a performance index of 0.99 and a correlation coefficient of 0.99, significant at a 5% confidence level. The TIMESAT software was able to estimate the phenological parameters of sugarcane using MODIS sensor images processed on the Google Earth Engine platform during the evaluated period (2001 to 2020).

Machine learning (ML) has transformed the financial industry by enabling advanced applications such as credit scoring, fraud detection, and market forecasting. At the core of this transformation is deep learning (DL), a subset of ML that is robust in processing and analyzing complex and large datasets. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of key deep learning models, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Long Short-Term Memory networks (LSTMs), Deep Belief Networks (DBNs), Transformers, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), and Deep Reinforcement Learning (Deep RL). Beyond summarizing their mathematical foundations and learning processes, this study offers new insights into how these models are applied in real-world financial contexts, highlighting their specific advantages and limitations in tasks such as algorithmic trading, risk management, and portfolio optimization. It also examines recent advances and emerging trends in the financial industry alongside critical challenges such as data quality, model interpretability, and computational complexity. These insights can guide future research directions toward developing more efficient, robust, and explainable financial models that address the evolving needs of the financial sector.

Family planning (FP) services are crucial interventions for improving maternal and child health outcomes and promoting gender equity. However, ensuring equitable access to these services remains a significant challenge, particularly in countries like Pakistan, where sociocultural norms, economic disparities, and geographic barriers hinder FP uptake. This study utilized spatial analysis techniques, including hotspot analysis, to investigate geographic disparities in FP uptake in Pakistan using data from Pakistan Demographic and Health Surveys (PDHS) conducted in 2006–2007 and 2017–2018. ArcMap 10.1 was used for spatial analysis and Stata 12.0 for statistical analysis. Results revealed significant spatial variations in FP uptake, with urban areas exhibiting higher uptake rates than rural regions. Hotspot analysis identified dynamic changes in contraceptive prevalence rates (CPR), with significant clustering in some regions and dispersion in others. It also identified areas with high unmet need, low intention to use FP services, and preference for family size (>3 children), highlighting the need for targeted behavioral change interventions. This innovative spatial approach provides nuanced insights for policymakers and program planners to develop targeted interventions based on localized data to improve FP service delivery, mitigate disparities, and ultimately advance efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes. The application of geospatial analysis is an effective tool for enhancing program planning, evaluation, and resource allocation in diverse geographical contexts.

Information gaps about the distribution of species hamper the evaluation of conservation status and decisions on biodiversity conservation, affecting areas with high species richness and endemism to a greater extent. In this context, carrying out biological inventories in protected and unprotected areas is an important tool to fill these gaps by providing data on the composition, richness, and abundance of species in each locality. The southeastern region of Coahuila (northeast Mexico) is a region where biodiversity research is required, as anthropogenic activities pose a serious threat to the avian diversity of this region. The present study aimed to compare the capacity of protected and unprotected areas to support the richness, abundance, and composition of bird species, as well as providing a list of bird species from eight areas located in this region. The point count method was conducted at the sites, and one-way ANOVA was used to determine the effect of area type on species richness and abundance. Based on our field observations, literature review, and digital databases, the avifauna of these eight areas includes 388 species in 63 families. Of these, 5 species are endemic to Mexico, 6 species are of global conservation concern, and 35 species are of regional conservation concern. The species richness found in this study supports the importance of protected and unprotected areas in southeastern Coahuila. The results of our study highlight the need for further assessment to conserve the avian community, especially considering the increasing threats of anthropogenic disturbance, as well as additional studies that will allow for better characterization of the avifauna of the region. This will help to ensure the conservation of the birds currently threatened by strong anthropic pressure due to the conversion of semiarid ecosystems to agricultural and livestock areas as well as increasing urbanization.

Background: After pancreatic surgery, the development of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is a serious concern. POPF involves the leakage of pancreatic fluids from the surgical site, which can lead to complications and even death. Preventing POPF is essential for enhancing patient recovery and lessening the impact on healthcare resources. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated medical methods and surgical techniques to prevent POPF. Methods: This study was registered under the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the registration number CRD42024500938. An electronic search was conducted through the PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases for all relevant articles published in English from 2018 to 2023. The following search terms were used: ((Whipple procedure OR Pancreaticojejunal OR Pancreaticogastrostomy) AND (Prevention of postoperative pancreatic fistula) AND (Prevention OR Octreotide OR Sealant agent OR Stent OR Postoperative drain)). Results: Of 260 papers, 28 articles extracted through the database search were considered suitable for the systematic review. The included studies investigated a variety of surgical approaches for pancreatic resection. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) was the most prevalent intervention. The incidence rates for POPF varied widely across the studies, ranging from as low as 11.6% to as high as 100%. The incidence rate of clinically relevant POPF (CR-POPF) ranged from 11.7% to 33.3%. The length of postoperative hospital stays also varied significantly. Discussion: Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) affects 13–41% of patients post-pancreatic surgery. Despite its high incidence, mortality rates are low. Postoperative hospital stay varies, with higher rates in older patients and overweight individuals. Advancements in surgical techniques and perioperative management have reduced mortality rates to Conclusions: This study provides insights into the outcomes of pancreatectomy, including the incidence of POPF, postoperative hospital stays, and mortality rate. The findings suggest that the incidence of POPF is similar to that suggested in the literature and is influenced by various factors.

HbF induction is an appropriate strategy to ameliorate the severity of β-thalassemia symptoms. Hydroxyurea (HU) is the most common chemical agent introduced as an HbF inducer but responsiveness to HU is variable and the introduction of HbF inducers alternative to HU with low cytotoxicity has been a crucial challenge. Resveratrol is an HbF inducer agent that may have favorable effects on the differentiation of hematopoietic erythroid progenitors (HEPs). The present study aimed to investigate the effect of resveratrol on γ-globin, stress response, and anti-apoptotic gene expression among hydroxyurea (HU)-responders and HU-nonresponders (HU-NR). Four cases of HU-R and four cases of HU-NR were studied. HEPs of the patients were cultured, and the expression of γ-globin, Foxo3, and Bclxl was assessed. Moreover, the differentiation and apoptotic rate of the cells were investigated using flow cytometry analysis. In three cases, the γ-globin gene expression increased after resveratrol treatment. All of the HU-NR patients were also non-responders to resveratrol (Res-NR). The expression of Foxo3 and Bclxl genes was higher in responders to resveratrol (Res-R) compared to non-responders (Res-NR). The rate of apoptosis in Res-R patients was also lower than in Res-NR. Responders to resveratrol also had a higher rate of HEP maturation. The cells of both HU–NR and Res-NR patients could not adapt to stress conditions and proceed to the erythroid differentiation. In conclusion, resveratrol increased the γ-globin expression in HEPs of β-thalassemia patients. The response was observed only in R-HU patients with similar cellular pathways.

The service environment, particularly the tourism sector, has become increasingly relevant in providing sustainable jobs across the globe. The resort environment consists of any combination of guest experience offerings such as accommodation, restaurants, events, and activities that operate mostly within one geographical environment. Furthermore, through an extensive literature review, it is found that the resort environment lacks practical quality improvement tools to enable continuous improvement (CI) within this remarkably complex and competitive space. This article aims to introduce a novel CI framework aimed at the resort environment to ensure a progressive competitive edge. This article illustrates a framework that builds a Total Productivity Management (TPMan) tool on these three dimensions as a foundation with an adapted quality methodology, which has been tried and tested within the manufacturing environment, providing eight pillars as CI components. The article illustrates the results by means of a case study where TPMan was applied over a period of 8 years within a local high-end resort in South Africa. The article concludes that TPMan is relevant to the resort environment as a practical CI tool.

The exploration of alternative energy sources has gained significant traction in recent years, driven by the urgent need to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and transition towards sustainable energy. Among these alternatives, CO2 plume geothermal and hydrothermal systems have emerged as promising options due to their potential for providing clean, renewable energy. This study presents a probabilistic investigation into the sensitivity of CO2 plume geothermal and hydrothermal systems under various reservoir conditions in the Williston Basin, North Dakota. In addition to elucidating the impact of reservoir conditions on system performance, the study utilizes probabilistic methods to assess energy output of CO2 plume geothermal and hydrothermal systems. Insights derived from this probabilistic investigation offer valuable guidance for the working fluid selection, systems design and optimization in the Williston Basin and beyond. Results from the sensitivity analysis reveal the profound influence of reservoir conditions on the behavior and efficiency of CO2 plume geothermal and hydrothermal systems. Our case study on Red River Formation and Deadwood Formations shows a potential of 34% increase and 32% decrease in heat extraction based on varying reservoir conditions. Our investigations in the Beaver Lodge field within the Red River Formation yielded arithmetic mean values for CO2 best case resources, hydrothermal resources and the CO2 worst case as 6.36 × 1018 J, 4.75 × 1018 J and 3.24 × 1018 J, respectively. Overall, this research contributes to advancing the knowledge and understanding of CO2 plume geothermal and hydrothermal systems as viable pathways towards sustainable energy production and carbon sequestration. By highlighting the sensitivity of these systems to reservoir conditions, the study provides valuable insights that can inform decision-making processes and future research endeavours aimed at fostering the transition to a low-carbon energy landscape.

Scientific studies on the impact of wood species on solid fuel production, performance, and sustainability are grossly inadequate. The knowledge of this is imperative as users of solid fuels are increasing rapidly, especially in Africa. On this note, it becomes necessary to explore measures that will improve its efficiency and sustainability as an energy source. This study investigates some properties of selected wood species used as an energy source in Nigeria and their pelleting potential. Nine samples were characterized and assessed for suitability of pelleting following four wood pellet quality standards. The properties investigated are physical (moisture content and density) and thermochemical (calorific value, ash content, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and ultimate properties (carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, oxygen, sulfur, arsenic, cadmium, and lead)). These were selected because they are among the most important pellet parameters contained in the quality standards. The findings revealed a net calorific value between 10.61 MJ.kg−1 for Tectona grandis and 18.44 MJ.kg−1 for Eucalyptus cam. The ash content, volatile matter, and fixed carbon contents of the samples range between 2.1 and 24.4%, 65.94 and 87.77%, and 3.51 and 18.63%, respectively. Anogeissus leiocarpus was found to be the species with the best rating score in terms of fuel properties, while Vitellaria paradoxa was the lowest. However, in terms of conformity with the four wood pellet standards, Khaya senegalensis, Parkia biglobosa, and Eucalyptus cam., having presented density, calorific value, sulfur, arsenic, cadmium, and lead within the limits of the wood pellet quality standards, were considered the best wood species in terms of fuel suitability and pelleting potential. The findings therefore suggest that not all wood species are suitable as fuel. Thus, for species that do not meet the standard wood pellet requirements, alternatives such as the use of biomass blends, additives, or process adjustments can be employed to adapt the quality to the standards or by using the fuels in improved cookstoves.

Child abuse affects millions of children globally. Comprehensive training is essential to promote its recognition and trigger appropriate responses to prevent missed opportunities for intervention. We describe a child abuse and child protection training programme for University of Ghana Medical School students and the cross-sectional survey of student assessment at the end. The programme comprised a lectures, dissertations, community surveys, case reports, public health advocacy topics, and poster designs. These were carried out as part of regular coursework in community health, using individual and group—methods. It culminated in a one-day whole-class seminar after their final examinations with completion and analyses of self-administered student assessment questionnaires. The seminar comprised nineteen 10-min oral presentations, twelve poster presentations on community surveys and dissertations, nine educative posters, three leaflets and a question-and-answer session. The training involved 208 students, and 126 completed the questionnaires. The majority of the students had good knowledge (80–100%). They correctly identified the types (91%), risk factors (87%), and gained clarity in selected areas. Added benefits were awards, a book of abstracts and summaries, policy brief and continuous professional development points for doctors. This training programme exemplifies the establishment of medical education in the context of the needs of the population to—be served.

Sulfur fertilization plays a crucial role in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production, influencing both protein concentration and grain yield. Wheat, being one of the most important food crops globally, requires efficient management of essential nutrients, including sulfur and nitrogen, to achieve optimal production. This study aimed to quantify the effect of sulfur fertilization on wheat protein concentration and grain yield and the relationship with nitrogen through two complementary methods: a comprehensive meta-analysis and a controlled greenhouse experiment. The meta-analysis, encompassing 55 studies from 20 countries with 545 comparisons, quantified the overall response of wheat to sulfur fertilization in diverse field environments, examining the effects based on soil texture and organic matter content. The greenhouse study investigated the effects of varying sulfur application rates and sources on protein concentration and grain yield and analyzed the relationship between sulfur and nitrogen concentrations in the grain. The meta-analysis showed overall positive effects of sulfur application on both protein concentration (2.1%) and grain yield (4.2%), with the magnitude of these effects varying based on soil texture and organic matter content. Sandy soils and soils with low organic matter content exhibited the most pronounced responses to sulfur fertilization. The greenhouse experiment revealed responses of both protein concentration and grain yield to increasing sulfur application rates, indicating an optimal rate beyond which additional sulfur may not provide further benefits. A strong positive correlation between sulfur and nitrogen concentrations in the grain highlighted their interdependence in wheat nutrition. These findings emphasize the importance of considering soil properties and the sulfur–nitrogen interaction when developing site-specific sulfur fertilization strategies for wheat. The results provide valuable insights for optimizing grain yield and protein concentration, contributing to more sustainable and efficient wheat production systems.

Practitioners routinely use the single leg heel raise (SLHR) to quantify calf function in healthy and injured populations. Despite this, approaches vary and the impact of cueing on SLHR performance and results interpretation in athletesis unknown. The primary aim of this study was to quantify the level of agreement of the cued versus non-cued SLHR tests. The secondary aim was to explore test outcomes and the potential impact of intrinsic factors. Cued and non-cued SLHR tests were conducted in fifty-one Australian football players (23 women, 28 men). Metronome pacing (60 bpm) and five key cues were included in the cued condition. The level of agreement (Bland–Altman) between tests was measured for capacity (repetitions to failure) and asymmetry. Data from 100 legs were included. The non-cued and cued SLHR tests demonstrated poor agreement in both capacity and asymmetry. More repetitions to failure were performed in the non-cued SLHR [Mean (SD) = 33.9 (10.3) vs. 21.9 (5.3), p < 0.001)], and men had greater capacity (36.8 (10.4) vs. 30.3 (9.2), p < 0.001). During the cued SLHR, older players (age ≥ 30 years: −5.1 repetitions, p = 0.01) and Indigenous players (−3.4 repetitions, p = 0.002) and had reduced calf muscle function. Cueing the SLHR test significantly changes the result—outcomes are not comparable or interchangeable with the commonly used non-cued SLHR. These findings can guide practitioners quantifying calf capacity.

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the possible correlation of visible carcass contamination and abattoir aerosol quality with microbial hygiene criteria. A total of 279 bovine carcasses were analyzed on 23 different working days. The aerobic colony count and total coliforms on the carcasses were calculated together with the presence of Escherichia coli. To determine the visible contamination of carcasses, we used a 100 cm2 sheet of transparent, adhesive plastic material, applied to the side of the carcass, to collect all the particles, which were then counted against both black and white backgrounds. The daily particulate index in the abattoir aerosol was determined using an air sampler device. The results showed that aerobic colony counts, which ranged from 1.41 to 2.40 log cfu cm−2, total coliforms (from 0.00 to 0.73 log cfu cm−2), and E. coli presence (from 0.00% to 60% of the sampled carcasses per day) are not correlated with the carcasses’ visual dirtiness or the aerosol quality. The factor analysis showed a correlation between the three groups of variables investigated: group 1, representing “aerosol quality”, group 2, representing the “microbiology of the carcass”, and group 3, the “visual dirtiness of the carcass”. Thus, even though microbiology analysis is useful in diagnosing the microorganisms which the official veterinarian is unable to detect during the post-mortem inspection, it is ineffective in evaluating slaughtering procedures. Aerosol monitoring and the visual classification of carcass dirtiness, instead, could provide good indications of the slaughtering process and the quality of the abattoir environment, and guarantee control of manufacturing practices, protecting both animals’ and operators’ health.

This work presents an approach based on signal processing and artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the pre-insertion resistor (PIR) and main contact instants during the operation of high-voltage SF6 circuit breakers to help improve the settings of controlled switching and attenuate transients. For this, the current and voltage signals of a real Brazilian substation are used as AI inputs, considering the noise and interferences common in this type of environment. Thus, the proposed modeling considers the signal preprocessing steps for feature extraction, the generation of the dataset for model training, the use of different machine learning techniques to automatically find the desired points, and, finally, the identification of the best moments for controlled switching of the circuit breakers. As a result, the models evaluated obtained good performance in the identification of operation points above 93%, considering precision and accuracy. In addition, valuable statistical notes related to the controlled switching condition are obtained from the circuit breakers evaluated in this research.

The highly perishable nature of Rubus berries, particularly their susceptibility to water loss and earlier senescence, significantly limits their shelf life. In this study, we investigated the mechanistic role of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the physiochemical quality, phenolic metabolism, and antioxidant potential of blackberries and raspberries during cold storage (2 ± 1 °C) for 12 and 10 days, respectively. Modified atmosphere (MA)-packed Rubus berries exhibited higher total phenolics accompanied by higher activities of shikimate dehydrogenase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase. Furthermore, MA-packed Rubus berries demonstrated lower hydrogen peroxide by maintaining higher catalase activity and delayed lipid peroxidation during the entire period of cold storage. Relatively higher levels of glutathione and ascorbic acid as well as the activities of enzymes involved in the ascorbate-glutathione cycle in MA-packed Rubus berries were also observed. Conversely, MAP reduced the respiration rate and weight loss while maintaining higher postharvest quality attributes in raspberries and blackberries than control fruit. In conclusion, MAP is an effective method for extending the cold storage life and maintaining the quality of Rubus berries.

Quantifying basal area in terms of diameter classes is important for informing forest management decisions. It is commonly derived from stand diameter distributions using field measurements, LiDAR, and a distribution function. This study compares alternative methods for directly estimating basal area in three tree diameter classes that are relevant to timber operations and wildlife habitat planning in southern United States pine forests. Specifically, linear modeling, ensemble linear modeling (ELM) and ensemble general additive modeling (EGAM) were compared. The results showed that the EGAM method provided the highest r-squared values and the lowest RMSE, and the ELM method provided good interpretability and 30 times faster processing than the EGAM method. Both ensemble methods produced a spatially explicit standard error estimate output without additional steps, unlike the single linear model. In general, the estimation results of this study were comparable or improved over prior studies’ estimates of basal area by tree diameter class.

Developing the capacity to monitor species diversity worldwide is of great importance in halting biodiversity loss. To this end, remote sensing plays a unique role. In this study, we evaluate the potential of Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) data, combined with conventional satellite optical imagery and climate reanalysis data, to predict in situ alpha diversity (Species richness, Simpson index, and Shannon index) among tree species. Data from Sentinel-2 optical imagery, ERA-5 climate data, SRTM-DEM imagery, and simulated GEDI data were selected for the characterization of diversity in four study areas. The integration of ancillary data can improve biodiversity metrics predictions. Random Forest (RF) regression models were suitable for estimating tree species diversity indices from remote sensing variables. From these models, we generated diversity index maps for the entire Cerrado using all GEDI data available in orbit. For all models, the structural metric Foliage Height Diversity (FHD) was selected; the Renormalized Difference Vegetation Index (RDVI) was also selected in all species diversity models. For the Shannon model, two GEDI variables were selected. Overall, the models indicated performances for species diversity ranging from (R2 = 0.24 to 0.56). In terms of RMSE%, the Shannon model had the lowest value among the diversity indices (31.98%). Our results suggested that the developed models are valuable tools for assessing species diversity in tropical savanna ecosystems, although each model can be chosen based on the objectives of a given study, the target amount of performance/error, and the availability of data.

Colostrum, the first fluid secreted by the mammary glands of mammalian mothers, contains essential nutrients for the health and survival of newborns. Bovine colostrum (BC) is notable for its high concentrations of bioactive components, such as immunoglobulins and lactoferrin. Despite dogs being the world’s most popular companion animals, there is limited research on their immune systems compared to humans. This summary aims to consolidate published studies that explore the immune benefits of BC, focusing specifically on its implications for dogs.

Background/Objectives: Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are associated with significant alterations in various metabolic biomarkers. Isthmin-1 (Ism1) has recently emerged as a potential marker of metabolic health and was shown in animal studies to associate with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). In this study, we aimed to investigate the circulatory levels of Ism1 in individuals with obesity compared to non-obese individuals and evaluate their association with insulin resistance, MAFLD, and T2D. The primary outcomes of this study are obesity, insulin resistance, MAFLD, and T2D, while the secondary outcome is hypertension; Methods: This is a cross-sectional study involving 450 participants, who were divided based on their obesity status into people with obesity (n = 182) and those without obesity (n = 265). Circulating Ism1 levels were measured by ELISA and were compared between the groups. Insulin resistance was assessed using the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and fatty liver was evaluated using Fibroscan; Results: Our results showed a significant reduction in circulating Ism1 levels in individuals with obesity (p-value = 0.002). Ism1 levels were negatively associated with the odds of T2D, possibly suggesting a protective role. Additionally, individuals with higher CAP scores demonstrated significantly lower Ism1 levels, and the Spearman’s rank correlation revealed a negative association between Ism1 and both CAP scores (r = −0.109, p-value = 0.025) and insulin resistance (r = −0.141, p-value = 0.004). Logistic regression analysis further supported Ism1 as an independent significant protective factor against obesity-related metabolic dysfunction. This significance persisted after adjusting for several confounders. Furthermore, our ROC results indicate that circulatory Ism1 levels possess significant diagnostic capability for identifying individuals with obesity-related metabolic imbalances with an area under the curve of 0.764 (95% CI = 0.718, 0.811). Finally, the adjusted multinomial analysis suggested that higher levels of Ism1 may play a protective role against pre-diabetes (AOR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.838, 0.925) and T2D (AOR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.814, 0.934); Conclusions: This study suggests that reduced Ism1 levels are linked to increased insulin resistance, MAFLD, and T2D in obese individuals. Our findings further corroborate the protective role of Ism1 and highlight its potential utility as a biomarker for monitoring obesity-related metabolic diseases.

Background and Objectives: Among breast cancer molecular types, HER2 positive and triple negative (TN) subtypes have the highest likelihood of pathological complete response (pCR), which is a surrogate marker for reduced recurrence and improved patient survival after neoadjuvant systemic treatment (NST). Preoperative pathological identification of these exceptional responders is a new era. Therefore, we aimed to determine the accuracy of trucut biopsy in identifying the exceptional responders in selected molecular subtypes of breast cancer patients. Materials and Methods: This two-centre, observational, single-arm, prospective, pilot study was conducted between January and September 2024. The patients with TN or HER2 positive breast cancer whose breast tumour had completely disappeared on the radiological assessment including MRI after neoadjuvant therapy were enrolled. To assess neoadjuvant treatment response, a standardised biopsy protocol was used, consisting of 10 samples from the marked tumour area per patient by 12 G core needle. Then, all patients underwent surgery. The pathological results of both postchemo-presurgical biopsy and surgical breast specimen were compared. Results: The study included 20 patients. The mean age of the patients was 47.3 years. The median tumour size at diagnosis was 23.1 mm. All biopsy results were concordant with the findings of surgical specimen. Seventeen patients had a complete response. The remaining 3 patients had residual disease. Conclusions: Along with thorough patient selection, post-chemo radiological assessment and the reliable biopsy technique are the key points in accurately predicting response to neoadjuvant treatment. If an image-guided core biopsy confirms elimination of tumour tissue at the marked tumour area with a radiological complete response on MRI after NST in breast cancer patients with selected molecular subtypes, these may be suitable patients as exceptional responders in whom we can omit breast surgery.

Developmental exposure to benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, has been linked to various toxic effects, including multigenerational behavioral impairment. While the specific mechanisms driving BaP neurotoxicity are not fully understood, recent work highlights two important determinants of developmental BaP neurotoxicity: (1) the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which induces host metabolism of BaP, and (2) the gut microbiome, which may interact with BaP to affect its metabolism, or be perturbed by BaP to disrupt the gut–brain axis. We utilized the zebrafish model to explore the role of AHR, the gut microbiome, and their interaction, on BaP-induced neurotoxicity. We tested (1) how developmental BaP exposure and AHR2 perturbation in zebrafish link to adult behavior, (2) how these variables associate with the structure and function of the adult zebrafish gut metagenome, and (3) whether these associations are multigenerational. Our findings reveal a reticulated axis of association between BaP exposure, developmental AHR2 expression, the zebrafish gut metagenome, and behavior. Results indicate that AHR2 is a key modulator of how BaP elicits neurotoxicity and microbiome dysbiosis. Additionally, this axis of association manifests generationally. These findings demonstrate the importance of studying pollutant–microbiome interactions and elucidate the role of specific host genes in neurotoxicity and dysbiosis.

This paper deals with the fixed-point findings under relational strict almost (ϕ,ψ)-contraction. Our findings complement and strengthen prevailing results. In the course of the procedure, we also derive a related fixed point theorem for strict almost (ϕ,ψ)-contraction. We provide several illustrative examples to support the validity of our outcomes. We also argue about the possibility of a unique solution of a nonlinear Fredholm integral equation via our outcomes.

A synthetic jet actuator (SJA) is a fluidic device often consisting of a vibrating diaphragm that alters the volume of a cavity to produce a synthesized jet through an orifice. The cyclic ingestion and expulsion of the working fluid leads to a zero-net mass-flux and the transfer of linear momentum to the working fluid over an actuation cycle, leaving a train of vortex structures propagating away from the orifice. SJAs are a promising technology for flow control applications due to their unique features, such as no external fluid supply or ducting requirements, short response time, low weight, and compactness. Hence, they have been the focus of many research studies over the past few decades. Despite these advantages, implementing an effective control scheme using SJAs is quite challenging due to the large parameter space involving several geometrical and operational variables. This article aims to explain the working mechanism of SJAs and provide a comprehensive review of the effects of SJA design parameters in quiescent conditions and cross-flow.

Among all fruits, the papaya ranks among the most significant, occupying fourth place in terms of marketing volumes. The papaya encounters various deterioration issues throughout the marketing chain, which results in the loss of bioactive phytochemicals in the fruit’s pulp. Making puree is the best way to make papaya pulp last longer, but processing can break down antioxidants like phenolic compounds (which are mostly stored in cell vacuoles) and carotenoids (which are stored in chromoplasts). The flash vacuum expansion process (FVE) promotes an expansion of the water present in the vacuoles, which generates cell rupture and consequently, the release of intracellular components. Because cell rupture is promoted from within the cell, the expulsion of bioactive compounds is more efficient and can therefore increase their bioaccessibility. Our results show that the FVE process increased the antioxidant capacity of the purees (measured by TEAC, FRAP, and DPPH assays) before and during digestion. Our results show that the FVE process significantly enhances the bioaccessibility and stability of antioxidant compounds, providing a clear advantage over the conventional method. Fruit purees generated by FVE can be an ingredient that increases the functionality of foods (juices, nectars, purees, ice creams, and yogurt) aimed at people with digestive problems, baby food, or the use of fruits with low commercial value.

The climate change-associated abnormal weather patterns negatively influences the productivity and performance of farm animals. Heat stress is the major detrimental factor hampering production, causing substantial economic loss to the livestock industry. Therefore, it is important to identify heat-tolerant breeds that can survive and produce optimally in any given environment. To achieve this goal, a clearer understanding of the genetic differences and the underlying molecular mechanisms associated with climate change impacts and heat tolerance are a prerequisite. Adopting next-generation biotechnological and statistical tools like whole transcriptome analysis, whole metagenome sequencing, bisulphite sequencing, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and selection signatures provides an opportunity to achieve this goal. Through these techniques, it is possible to identify permanent genetic markers for heat tolerance, and by incorporating those markers in marker-assisted breeding selection, it is possible to achieve the target of breeding for heat tolerance in livestock. This review gives an overview of the recent advancements in assessing heat tolerance in livestock using such ‘omics’ approaches and statistical models. The salient findings from this research highlighted several candidate biomarkers that have the potential to be incorporated into future heat-tolerance studies. Such approaches could revolutionise livestock production in the changing climate scenario and support the food demands of the growing human population.

The tick-borne encephalitis virus is a pathogen endemic to northern Europe and Asia, transmitted through bites from infected ticks. It is a member of the Flaviviridae family and possesses a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA genome encoding a polypeptide that is processed into seven non-structural and three structural proteins, including the envelope (E) protein. The glycosylation of the E protein, involving a single N-linked glycan at position N154, plays a critical role in viral infectivity and pathogenesis. Here, we dissected the entire glycosylation profile of the E protein using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and identified three novel O-linked glycans, which were found at relatively low frequency. One of the O-linked glycans was positioned close to the highly conserved N-linked glycan site, and structural analysis suggested that it may be relevant for the function of the E 150-loop. The N154 site was found to be glycosylated with a high frequency, containing oligomannose or complex-type structures, some of which were fucosylated. An unusually high portion of oligomannose N-linked glycan structures exhibited compositions that are normally observed on proteins when they are translocated from the endoplasmic reticulum to the trans-Golgi network, suggesting disruption of the glycan processing pathway in the infected cells from which the E protein was obtained.

Drowsiness has been recognized as a leading factor in road accidents worldwide. Despite considerable research in this area, this paper aims to improve the precision of drowsiness detection specifically for long-haul travel by employing the Dlib-based facial feature detection algorithm. This study proposes two algorithms: a static and adaptive frame threshold. Both approaches utilize eye closure ratio (ECR) and mouth aperture ratio (MAR) parameters to determine the driver’s level of drowsiness. The static threshold method issues a warning when the ECR and/or MAR values reach specific thresholds. In this method, the ECR threshold is established at 0.15 and the MAR threshold at 0.4. The static threshold method demonstrated an accuracy of 89.4% and a sensitivity of 96.5% using 1000 images. The adaptive frame threshold algorithm uses a counter to monitor the number of consecutive frames that meet the drowsiness criteria before triggering a warning. Additionally, the number of consecutive frames required is adjusted dynamically over time to enhance detection accuracy and more accurately indicate a state of drowsiness. The adaptive frame threshold algorithm was tested using four 30 min videos, from a publicly available dataset achieving a maximum accuracy of 98.2% and a sensitivity of 64.3% with 500 images.

The quest for renewable energy sources has resulted in alternative fuels like ammonia, which offer promising carbon-free fuel for combustion engines. Ammonia has been demonstrated to be a potential fuel for decarbonizing power generator, marine, and heavy-duty transport sectors. Ammonia’s infrastructure for transportation has been established due to its widespread primary use in the agriculture sector. Ammonia has the potential to serve as a zero-carbon alternative fuel for internal combustion engines and gas turbines, given successful carbon-free synthesis and necessary modifications to legacy heat engines. While its storage characteristics surpass those of hydrogen, the intrinsic properties of ammonia pose challenges in ignition, flame propagation, and the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and nitrous oxide (N2O) during combustion in heat engines. Recent noteworthy efforts in academia and industry have been dedicated to developing innovative combustion strategies and enabling technologies for heat engines, aiming to enhance efficiency, fuel economy, and emissions. This paper provides an overview of the latest advancements in the combustion of neat or high-percentage ammonia, offering perspectives on the most promising technical solutions for gas turbines, spark ignition, and compression ignition engines.

Research from Western countries, Asia, and some parts of Africa has documented that bullying victimization has ramifications for adolescents, including suicidal tendencies. Some studies have also reported that loneliness among teenagers is strongly linked to suicidal behavior. However, little is known about whether loneliness mediates bullying victimization and suicidal behavior. The present study aims to apply the general strain theory to explore the relationship between being bullied and suicidal behavior among juveniles in Ghana. The study also examines the effect of bullying victimization on loneliness. Additionally, the research evaluates the impact of loneliness on suicidal behavior. Lastly, the study explores the mediation role of loneliness on the association between peer victimization and suicidal behavior among juveniles in Ghana. Data from the 2012 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) and a sample size of 2626 were used in this research. The results revealed that bullying victimization positively predicted loneliness, and bullying victimization and loneliness significantly predicted suicidal behavior. Finally, loneliness partially mediated the association between bullying experience and suicidal behavior. This study not only provides new evidence to support the general strain theory (GST) but also discusses the theoretical and political implications of the findings.

This study investigates the application of fiber optic technology to optimize completion design in a hydraulic fracture stimulation for Marcellus Shale Reservoir. With a focus on improving cluster efficiencies and overcoming interstage communication challenges, the research utilizes real-time data from distributed acoustic (DAS), temperature (DTS), and strain (DSS) measurements. The methodology comprises a comprehensive analysis of completion and stimulation reports, fiber optics, microseismic data, and well logs. Conducted at the MSEEL well pads, MIP, and Boggess, and equipped with permanent and deployable fiber optic cables, this study emphasizes that engineered/geomechanical completion design leads to sustained cluster efficiency and stage production performance. Inefficient cluster efficiencies are primarily linked to fracture communication. Recommendations include employing a geomechanical completion design, avoiding non-uniform high natural fracture zones during hydraulic fracture stimulations, implementing short stage length, and using more 100 mesh sand. These insights, derived from correlations between fracture counts, distributed strain sensing (DSS), cluster efficiency, production logging, and production data, offer significant implications for optimizing completion design in unconventional reservoirs. The effective application of fiber optic technology, providing real-time DAS, DTS, and slow strain data, proves instrumental in addressing interstage communication challenges, contributing to improved reservoir performances and cost-effective operations in hydraulic fracture stimulations.

In recent years, the adoption of sustainable pest management strategies has increased interest in the utilization of biopesticides, with a focus on harnessing beneficial microorganisms. Among these, lipopeptides, such as surfactins, iturins, and fengycins produced by the genus Bacillus, have gained significant attention due to their multifaceted biocontrol mechanisms and wide-ranging inhibitory effects. This review aims to address the regulation, biosynthesis, and production of three main lipopeptide families secreted by the genus Bacillus, as well as the identification and quantification analysis used to date, through the omic tools approach. The three families have been identified as key contributors to the biocontrol abilities of these bacteria, with their broad-spectrum activity making them valuable tools in integrated pest management approaches that aim to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides use while maintaining crop health and productivity.

Background and aim: We conducted a review to determine the efficacy of amlodipine alongside iron chelators on serum ferritin levels and liver T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI T2*) in β-thalassemia patients. Methods: Systematic search was conducted in multiple databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), ProQuest, OpenGrey, and Web of Science Conference Proceedings Citation Index. The search was closed in January 2023. Primary outcomes were comprised of liver MRI T2* (millisecond (msec)) and serum ferritin levels (ng/mL). Results: Seven studies (n = 227) were included in the study. The pooled Cohen’s d for serum ferritin was estimated at −0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) −1.11 to 0.19 and p = 0.16 (I2 86.23%, p < 0.0001). The pooled mean difference for serum ferritin was −366.44 ng/mL, 95% CI −844.94 to 112.05, and p = 0.13 (I2 81.63%, p < 0.0001). After a meta-regression based on the length of using amlodipine, a coefficient for the mean difference was also −23.23 ng/mL and 95% CI −155.21 to 108.75. The coefficient obtained from a meta-regression as per the amlodipine dose at 5 mg/day than 2.5 to 5 mg/day anchored at −323.49 ng/mL and 95% CI −826.14 to 1473.12. A meta-regression according to the baseline values of serum ferritin discovered a coefficient of 1.25 ng/mL and 95% CI 0.15 to 2.35. Based on two included studies (n = 96), the overall Cohen’s d for liver MRI T2* was 2.069, 95% CI −0.896 to 5.035, and p = 0.17 (I2 96.31%, p< 0.0001). The synthesized mean difference for liver MRI T2* was 8.76 msec, 95% CI −4.16 to 21.67, and p = 0.18 (I2 98.38%, p < 0.000). Conclusion: At a very low level of evidence, probably using amlodipine at a dose of 2.5 to 5 mg a day, up to a year, alongside iron chelators slightly decreases serum ferritin levels in iron-overloaded thalassemia cases by nearly 366 ng/mL (23 ng/mL per month). The liver MRI T2* might also rise to 8.76 msec upon co-therapy with amlodipine.

The carapace morphology of tortoises is a crucial characteristic used for species identification, with features such as shell shape, roughness, and color patterns varying among species. Understanding this morphological diversity is valuable not only for taxonomic classification but also for more specialized clinical approaches. This study investigated the morphological differences in the shells of Leopard tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis), African spurred tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata), and Greek tortoises (spur-thighed tortoises; Testudo graeca) raised in captivity. Using 3D scanners, the carapaces were modeled, and a 3D geometric morphometric method was employed to analyze shape variations and dimensional features, with landmarks applied automatically. Among the species studied, African spurred tortoises had the largest carapace size. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified PC1 and PC3 as critical factors in distinguishing between species based on morphological characteristics. Positive PC1 values, associated with a shorter carapace height, indicated a flatter or more compact shell shape. A higher PC3 value corresponded to a raised shape at the back of the shell, while a lower PC3 value indicated a raised shape at the front. Specifically, Leopard tortoises exhibited a higher carapace shape than the other species, while African spurred tortoises had shorter carapaces. An allometric effect was observed in the carapaces, where smaller specimens tended to be proportionately higher-domed, whereas larger shells displayed a lower height in shape. These findings highlight the significance of shape variations in tortoise shells, which emerge during adaptation and have important implications for taxonomy and clinical practice. Such differences should be carefully considered in veterinary care and species identification.

Obesity has escalated into a critical global health crisis, tripling in prevalence since the mid-1970s. This increase mirrors the rise in metabolic-associated diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its complications, certain cancers, and cardiovascular conditions. While substantial research efforts have enriched our understanding and led to the development of innovative management strategies for these diseases, the suboptimal response rates of existing therapies remain a major obstacle to effectively managing obesity and its associated conditions. Over the years, inter-organ communication (IOC) has emerged as a crucial factor in the development and progression of metabolic disorders. Exosomes, which are nano-sized vesicular couriers released by cells, play a significant role in this communication by transporting proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids across cellular landscapes. The available evidence indicates that exosomal RNAs present in biofluids such as blood, urine, milk, vitreous humor (VH), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are altered in numerous diseases, suggesting their diagnostic and therapeutic potential. Long non-coding RNAs contained in exosomes (exo-lncRNAs) have attracted considerable interest, owing to their ability to interact with critical components involved in a multitude of metabolic pathways. Recent studies have found that alterations in exo-lncRNAs in biofluids correlate with several metabolic parameters in patients with metabolic-associated conditions; however, their exact roles remain largely unclear. This review highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of exosomal lncRNAs in obesity and its associated conditions, emphasizing their role in IOC and disease progression, aiming to pave the way for further research in this promising domain.

The livestock sector, essential for maintaining food supply and security, encounters numerous obstacles as a result of climate change. Rising global populations exacerbate competition for natural resources, affecting feed quality and availability, heightening livestock disease risks, increasing heat stress, and contributing to biodiversity loss. Although various management and dietary interventions exist to alleviate these impacts, they often offer only short-lived solutions. We must take a more comprehensive approach to understanding how animals adapt to and endure their environments. One such approach is quantifying transcriptomes under different environments, which can uncover underlying pathways essential for livestock adaptation. This review explores the progress and techniques in studies that apply gene expression analysis to livestock production systems, focusing on their adaptation to climate change. We also attempt to identify various biomarkers and transcriptomic differences between species and pure/crossbred animals. Looking ahead, integrating emerging technologies such as spatialomics could further accelerate genetic improvements, enabling more thermoresilient and productive livestock in response to future climate fluctuations. Ultimately, insights from these studies will help optimize livestock production systems by identifying thermoresilient/desired animals for use in precise breeding programs to counter climate change.

Background and Objectives: The link between celiac disease (CD) and type 1 diabetes (T1D) has been well-documented in the medical literature and is thought to be due to a shared genetic predisposition in addition to environmental triggers. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and biopsy-proven CD (PBCD) prevalence in individuals with T1D from Saudi Arabia and identify their clinical characteristics and the impact on glycemic control. Materials and Methods: A total of 969 children and adolescents with confirmed T1D were investigated. Prospective and retrospective data were collected to include clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical data. Total IgA and anti-TTG-IgA antibodies were screened to detect seropositive cases. Upper intestinal endoscopy and biopsy were performed to find BPCD. Results: The seroprevalence of CD was 14.6% (141/969), while BPCD prevalence was 7.5%. Females had a higher prevalence than males: 17.8% vs. 9.8%, p < 0.001. The CD group had lower HbA1c and more frequent hypoglycemia than the seronegative group. Conclusions: This study highlighted the high prevalence of CD in T1D Saudi patients. CD has multiple effects on glycemic control, growth, and puberty in children and adolescents with T1D. We emphasize the importance of early screening for CD at the time of diabetes diagnosis and periodically after that or if any atypical features present, especially anemia, growth delay, underweight, or frequent hypoglycemia.

(1) Background: General nutrition knowledge is a fundamental pillar of well-being and healthy lifestyles. This study aimed to measure the general nutrition knowledge questionnaire (GNKQ) scores of overweight and obese participants who joined a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) and the association between changes in GNKQ scores and changes in anthropometric measures. (2) Methods: A total of 30 and 25 participants had completed the trial at the 3- and 6-month visits, respectively. All participants enrolled in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and received a hypocaloric-tailored diet and three online nutrition education sessions over 6 months. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: an intervention group supported with weekly telemonitoring and monthly telehealth coaching vs. a control group. The Arabic-validated GNKQ was used, covering four sections: dietary recommendations; food groups and nutrient sources; healthy food choices; and associations between the diet–disease relationship and weight. (3) Results: The findings show that both the intervention and control groups showed improvements in GNKQ scores over time, with the intervention group demonstrating significant increases in overall nutrition knowledge and specific areas, such as the diet–disease relationship and weight management, at 3 months. In addition, changes in GNKQ scores had a significant negative association with BMI and visceral fat percentage. The findings underline the benefits of supporting dietary weight loss interventions with telemonitoring and telehealth coaching, suggesting that an increase in nutrition knowledge may relate to lower body fat metrics. Nevertheless, the small sample size and high attrition rate of participants were the main limitations of this study, such that large populations are required to confirm the reliability of the obtained findings.

Landscape-oriented approaches in archaeology have moved beyond site-based research to interpret how people have engaged with, modified, and constructed the environment and how the legacies of these activities continue to influence land use. In the Maya Lowlands, landscape archaeology is related to the analysis of settlement patterns, households, agricultural intensification, and water management. The increasing availability of LiDAR data has revolutionized the mapping of archaeological landscapes under vegetation, especially in tropical environments like the Maya Lowlands, but researchers still emphasize site-oriented settlement densities and infrastructure. Furthermore, the accessibility of drone-based LiDAR platforms has the potential to collect data across several seasons or years to facilitate change detection. In this paper, we compare three LiDAR datasets collected from 2018 to 2023, using both occupied and unoccupied airborne systems. The landscape surrounding the archaeological site of El Infiernito, Chiapas, Mexico near the Classic period (AD 250–800) dynastic capital of Piedras Negras, Guatemala was selected to compare these LiDAR datasets in the context of prior, extensive ground-based fieldwork. These data were used to interpret the built environment, land use, hydrology, landscapes of movement, and other infrastructure constructed and modified by several communities beginning in the Late Preclassic period (400 BC–AD 250) to the present. When used alongside systematic survey and ground verification, the combination of several LiDAR platforms to collect data across different seasons at El Infiernito enhanced the understanding of the spatial distribution of archaeological sites and features across the karst landscape.

Abscisic acid (ABA) plays an important regulatory role in the grain filling process, which in turn will affect the final yield and quality of rice. The ABA biosynthesis genes of OsNCED3 and degradation gene OsABA8ox3 affect the ABA content, and then further regulate the ABA signaling. During the development of rice panicle, compared with primary grains (superior grains) growing on primary branches, secondary grains (inferior grains) growing on secondary branches exhibit characteristics. However, little is reported on the physicochemical characteristics of starch between superior and inferior grains in ABA related transgenic lines. In this study, OsNCED3 and OsABA8ox3 transgenic plants were used as materials. The results showed that compared with the WT, the OsNCED3-RNAi lines on grain weight was consistent with the trend of superior and inferior grains, while the OsABA8ox3-RNAi lines affected superior or inferior grains. The total starch and soluble sugar content of grains decreased in both OsNCED3-RNAi and OsABA8ox3-RNAi lines, and the total starch content of superior and inferior grains in OsABA8ox3-RNAi lines decreased. The starch granule size distribution of all samples showed a bimodal and increased proportion of starch grains with large granule size, in which the influence on inferior grains was greater than that of superior grains, which eventually led to a significant increase in their average granule size. The apparent amylose content of inferior grains increased significantly in most lines. The swelling power of the superior grains decreased significantly, while that of the inferior grains increased significantly. Fourier analysis showed that the order degree of starch granule surface decreased in the superior grains of the RNAi line, while it increased in the inferior grains of the OsABA8ox3-RNAi line but decreased in the OsNCED3-RNAi lines. In the superior grains, the relative crystallinity of starch decreased in the OsNCED3-RNAi lines, but remained unchanged or increased in the OsABA8ox3-RNAi line. In inferior grains, the relative crystallinity of starch decreased in the ABA synthesis RNAi line, but increased in the OsABA8ox3-RNAi line. In summary, the influence of ABA on the physicochemical properties of inferior grains is greater than that of superior grains.

(1) Background: Endometriosis is a highly prevalent gynecological disease affecting 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. miRNAs may play a role in endometriosis, though their exact function remains unclear. This study aimed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in endometriosis and study their functions in the disease. (2) Methods: Endometrial tissue was collected from women with endometriosis (n = 15) and non-endometriosis controls (n = 17). Dysregulated miRNAs were identified through small RNA-sequencing, and their biological significance was explored by target gene prediction and pathway analysis. Selected miRNAs were examined in paired ectopic endometriomas and eutopic endometrium (n = 10) using qRT-PCR. Their roles in cell migration and proliferation were further examined in vitro using functional assays. To identify potential target genes, we performed mRNA sequencing on transfected cells and the endometrioma cohort. (3) Results: We identified 14 dysregulated miRNAs in the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis compared to endometrial tissue from women without endometriosis. Pathway analysis indicated enrichment in cell migration and proliferation-associated pathways. Further ex vivo studies of miR-193b-5p and miR-374b-5p showed that both miRNAs were upregulated in endometrioma. Overexpression of these two miRNAs in vitro inhibited cell migration, and mRNA sequencing revealed several migration-related genes that are targeted by these miRNAs. (4) Conclusions: Our study identified two key endometrial miRNAs that may be involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis by regulating cell migration.