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We present a demonstration of the in-flight polarization angle calibration for the JAXA/ISAS second strategic large class mission, LiteBIRD, and estimate its impact on the measurement of the tensor-to-scalar ratio parameter, r, using simulated data. We generate a set of simulated sky maps with CMB and polarized foreground emission, and inject instrumental noise and polarization angle offsets to the 22 (partially overlapping) LiteBIRD frequency channels. Our in-flight angle calibration relies on nulling the EB cross correlation of the polarized signal in each channel. This calibration step has been carried out by two independent groups with a blind analysis, allowing an accuracy of the order of a few arc-minutes to be reached on the estimate of the angle offsets. Both the corrected and uncorrected multi-frequency maps are propagated through the foreground cleaning step, with the goal of computing clean CMB maps. We employ two component separation algorithms, the Bayesian-Separation of Components and Residuals Estimate Tool (B-SeCRET), and the Needlet Internal Linear Combination (NILC). We find that the recovered CMB maps obtained with algorithms that do not make any assumptions about the foreground properties, such as NILC, are only mildly affected by the angle miscalibration. However, polarization angle offsets strongly bias results obtained with the parametric fitting method. Once the miscalibration angles are corrected by EB nulling prior to the component separation, both component separation algorithms result in an unbiased estimation of the r parameter. While this work is motivated by the conceptual design study for LiteBIRD, its framework can be broadly applied to any CMB polarization experiment. In particular, the combination of simulation plus blind analysis provides a robust forecast by taking into account not only detector sensitivity but also systematic effects.

Indium tin oxide (ITO) is a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) commonly used in the realization of optoelectronic devices needing at least a transparent electrode. In this work, ITO thin films were deposited on glass substrates by non-reactive RF magnetron sputtering, investigating the effects of power density, sputtering pressure, and substrate temperature on the electrical, optical, and structural properties of the as-grown films. High-quality films, in terms of crystallinity, transparency, and conductivity were obtained. The 120 nm thick ITO films grown at 225 °C under an argon pressure of 6.9 mbar and a sputtering power density of 2.19 W/cm2 without post-annealing treatments in an oxidizing environment showed an optical transmittance near 90% at 550 nm and a resistivity of 2.10×10−4 Ω cm. This material was applied as the electrode of simple-structure organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).

In this study, the effects of exercise applied to sedentary individuals and the use of pomegranate–black carrot juice on minerals, fatty acids and some biochemical parameters were examined. Twenty healthy sedentary men participated in this study. This research consisted of three stages. Blood samples were taken from the participants before this study (Baseline), after the participants exercised (60 min/day) for 10 days (Exerciseonly), after the participants were given pomegranate–black carrot juice mixture (100 mL/100 mL) along with exercise (60 min/day) for 10 days (Exercise+supp). While AST and ALT levels increased in the Exerciseonly phase, they showed a relative decrease in the Exercise+supp phase. It was determined that Mg level in the Exerciseonly phase decreased compared to the Baseline and the Exercise+supp phase. It was determined that the Zn level in the Exercise+supp phase increased compared to the Zn level in the Exerciseonly phase. It was determined that 6:0, 12:0 and 14:0 fatty acid levels increased in the Exerciseonly phase compared to the Baseline. A decrease was detected in the Exerciseonly phase compared to the Baseline 18:2n6c, 18:3n6 and 18:3n3 fatty acid levels. It can be said that exercise and the use of pomegranate–black carrot juice mixture in sedentary individuals have supportive and corrective effects on serum mineral, fatty acids and some biochemical parameters.

Objectives: This study examines the potential impact of Ramadan fasting on sleep patterns and physical fitness in under 14 (U14) and under 17 (U17) female handball players. Methods: For this study, sixty-five female handball players’ (U14, n = 33 and U17, n = 32) sleep habits were assessed before (BR) and during the first (R1) and last weeks (R4) of Ramadan using: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Physical ability tests including balance and jumps were conducted throughout these periods.; Results: During Ramadan, both groups noted significant increases in PSQI and ISI scores during R1 (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) and R4 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively) compared to before Ramadan (BR). For the U14 group, a significant increase occurred in ESS scores during R1 (p < 0.01) and R4 (p < 0.05), whereas for the U17 group, this increase was limited over the R1 period (p < 0.05). In contrast, for all physical ability parameters, both groups showed no significant difference during R1 and R4; Conclusions: During adolescence, Ramadan fasting may alter sleep patterns in young female athletes but appears to have no effect on their performance in short-duration exercises.

Background: This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate whether prior engagement in a physical exercise program correlated with enhanced perceptions of quality-of-life components among older adults during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Methods: The cohort comprised elderly individuals (aged ≥ 65 years) who had previously partaken in a 12-week randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of a mixed aerobic–anaerobic, moderate-intensity exercise program. Participants’ health-related quality of life was assessed using the Short Form Health Survey-12 item (SF-12) at the beginning of the initial trial and, again, one year later during the COVID-19 lockdown. In the exercise group, 44 participants were included, while the control group consisted of 49 participants, with computer-based, double-blind randomization conducted in Cagliari, Italy. The differences in scores for each SF-12 item between the two groups from T0 to T1 were compared using one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni corrections. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed on average by age (exercise group vs. control group 72.20 ± 4.78 vs. 72.91 ± 4.77; F = 0.513, p = 0.476). A decrease from T0 to T1 towards a better score on the SF-12 was observed in the exercise group compared to the control group in item 1 (F = 67.463, p < 0.0001); in item 5 (F = 4.319, p = 0.041); item 8 (F = 4.269, p = 0.041); item 9 (F = 10.761, p = 0.001); item 10 (F = 170.433, p < 0.001); and item 11 (F = 4.075, p = 0.046). Conclusions: The results suggest that participation in a moderate physical exercise program one year prior may have equipped older adults with better coping mechanisms to navigate the stress and isolation imposed by the COVID-19 lockdown, as reflected by their enhanced scores on quality-of-life components pertaining to mental well-being. Exercise may confer a protective effect against the adverse psychological impacts of stressful events like the pandemic, even among older adults with chronic conditions. This study underscores the potential benefits of exercise interventions for promoting quality of life and preventing mood disorders in the elderly population.

Wearable technologies have become increasingly popular in recent years, as athletes and coaches look for ways to gain a competitive edge. These devices can track a variety of metrics, including heart rate, sleep quality, and movement patterns. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and make small, incremental changes that can lead to significant gains in performance. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an integrative overview of the literature on the impact of wearable technologies on marginal gains in sports performance. The literature review was conducted using the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases, and a total of 55 papers were considered eligible. The results of the literature overview suggest that wearable devices can be classified into three main categories. (1) Location-based wearables (LBW) track an athlete’s location and movement, which can be used to analyze training patterns and identify potential injury risks. (2) Biometric wearables (BMW) track physiological data such as heart rate, sleep quality, and body temperature; these data can be used to monitor an athlete’s fitness levels and identify signs of overtraining. (3) Performance wearables (PMW) track performance metrics such as power output, speed, and distance; this information can be used to optimize training programs and track progress over time. For each category, this paper provides the five most important data points measured by each suggested device. Additionally, sport-specific examples are provided for each category based on the literature data. The limitations of wearable devices, such as accuracy, validity, reliability, interpretability, and cost, are also discussed. However, despite these limitations, the results of the literature review suggest that wearable technologies can be a valuable tool for athletes and coaches who are looking to improve performance. Ultimately, this technological evolution in sports science is likely to dramatically change the state of the art in athletic monitoring and sports analytics.

Sleep is a fundamental biological process that plays a pivotal role in the health and performance of physically active individuals (PAI). Sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality can negatively impact recovery capacity, concentration, coordination, and muscular strength, thereby compromising physical performance and increasing the risk of injuries. Objectives: This narrative literature review aims to examine the scientific evidence on the importance of sleep hygiene for the health and performance of PAI. A search was conducted for studies published on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies that investigated the effect of sleep hygiene on health and performance variables in athletes were included. The literature analysis highlighted that good sleep hygiene, adequate sleep duration (7–9 h per night), high sleep quality, and a regular sleep routine are associated with a range of benefits for the health and performance of PAI, including: (1) improved post-training recovery; (2) reduced risk of injuries; (3) enhanced concentration and attention; (4) improved coordination and muscle strength; (5) better mood and mental well-being; (6) reduced risk of chronic diseases. Sleep hygiene is a key factor for the health and performance of PAI. Implementing a comprehensive and personalized sleep hygiene routine can lead to significant improvements in the quality and quantity of sleep, with positive effects on physical and mental health, and overall well-being of PAI.

Background and Objectives: In this study, the effects of a six-week training program and various diets on subfatin, asprosin, irisin, leptin, ghrelin and the lipid profile were investigated in overweight women. Materials and Methods: A total of 78 women voluntarily participated in the study. Groups: The study was divided into eight groups: Healthy Control, Obese Control, Obese + Vegetarian, Obese + Ketogenic, Obese + Intermittent Fasting, Obese + Exercise + Vegetarian, Obese + Exercise + Ketogenic and Obese + Exercise + Intermittent Fasting. While there was no intervention in the healthy and obese control groups, the other groups followed predetermined exercise and diet programs for 6 weeks. Blood samples were taken from the participants in the research group twice (before and after the interventions). An autoanalyzer was used to determine the lipid profile in the blood samples taken, and the ELISA method was used to analyze other parameters. Results: Overall, a significant difference was found in the values of weight, BMI, subfatin, ghrelin, leptin, cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL and LDL as a result of the exercise and diet interventions (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in asprosin and irisin values (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, regular exercise and dietary interventions in obese women can regulate lipid profile, ghrelin, leptin and asprosin levels, and increasing irisin with exercise can activate lipid metabolism and support positive changes in lean mass.

(1) Receiving an oncological diagnosis involves countless physical and mental challenges for those who become ill. In addition to this, developmental activities are put on hold when a parent becomes ill, significantly impairing children’s normal growth and development. The purpose of this review is to highlight the psychological impact of cancer on children, with particular attention to differences based on the age of the child and the stage of the parent’s disease. (2) Articles published on PubMed up until October 2023 were searched. Qualitative and quantitative studies were included in this review after an evaluation of the full text. The study selection process was undertaken by two researchers, and articles for which there was unanimous agreement between researchers were included in the review. (3) Children’s psycho-emotional responses differ based on their age and the disease stage. In general, good communication and a supportive family environment that understands everyone’s needs seem to constitute important protective factors that favor the adaptation of the entire family to the disease. (4) The family, as an evolutionary system, finds itself facing phases typical of development. Knowing the variables that intervene in the process of adaptation to the disease will allow us to design specific and differentiated clinical interventions based on the needs of not only the patient but also the entire family.

PurposeCyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) and CDK6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) are highly effective against estrogen receptor-positive (ER+)/HER2- breast cancer; however, intrinsic and acquired resistance is common. Elucidating the molecular features of sensitivity and resistance to CDK4/6i may lead to identification of predictive biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets, paving the way toward improving patient outcomes.Experimental designParental breast cancer cells and their endocrine-resistant derivatives (EndoR) were used. Derivatives with acquired resistance to palbociclib (PalboR) were generated from parental and estrogen deprivation-resistant MCF7 and T47D cells. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses were performed in palbociclib-sensitive and PalboR lines. Gene expression data from CDK4/6i neoadjuvant trials and publicly available datasets were interrogated for correlations of gene signatures and patient outcomes.ResultsParental and EndoR breast cancer lines showed varying degrees of sensitivity to palbociclib. Transcriptomic analysis of these cell lines identified an association between high IFN signaling and reduced CDK4/6i sensitivity; thus an "IFN-related palbociclib-resistance Signature" (IRPS) was derived. In two neoadjuvant trials of CDK4/6i plus endocrine therapy, IRPS and other IFN-related signatures were highly enriched in patients with tumors exhibiting intrinsic resistance to CDK4/6i. PalboR derivatives displayed dramatic activation of IFN/STAT1 signaling compared with their short-term treated or untreated counterparts. In primary ER+/HER2- tumors, the IRPS score was significantly higher in lumB than lumA subtype and correlated with increased gene expression of immune checkpoints, endocrine resistance, and poor prognosis.ConclusionsAberrant IFN signaling is associated with intrinsic resistance to CDK4/6i. Experimentally, acquired resistance to palbociclib is associated with activation of the IFN pathway, warranting additional studies to clarify its involvement in resistance to CDK4/6i.

Solo agers--the millions of Americans without a biological child or the traditional family structure that is the foundation of informal long-term services and supports for older adults, particularly those age 80 and older-- have both advantages and challenges from being child-free. The independence and freedom to pursue career, economic, and lifestyle aspirations afforded by the absence of child-rearing responsibilities also result in increased responsibilities for caregiving and related costs for married couples, widows and widowers, and unmarried individuals. Those living alone at advanced age are particularly at risk unless they have done considerable advance planning as well for financial security, caregiving support, and social connectedness. Ideally, this includes adequate guidance and advice from financial professionals aware of and responsive to their long-term needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed in many cell types, and its related signaling is widely investigated in hormone-dependent cancers such as prostate and breast. The significance of the AR, however, has been detected even in other cancers, including gastric, bladder, kidney, lung, hepatic, and pancreatic, in which growth and spreading are not strictly or notoriously dependent on sex steroid hormone action. The incidence and mortality of these cancers are, however, somewhat related to gender and, specifically, are higher in men than in women, with the ratio reaching 3–4:1 for bladder cancer. This direct correlation between cancer incidence, mortality, and gender makes sex one of the most important risk factors for these cancers and has incited investigation about the role of sex steroid receptors and their activating hormones in gender-related cancers. In these cancers, the AR is often expressed and seems to play a pivotal role in different processes contributing to cancer onset and progression such as growth, spreading, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). This manuscript will offer an overview of the role of the AR in many cancers of the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems wherein its role has been at least partially analyzed. Understanding the role of the AR in these tumors could help us to identify a new biomarker for early diagnostic guidance and to develop better therapeutic approaches by directly targeting the AR or its downstream signaling in individual cells of hormone-related cancers at different stages.

Mega-events imply several city transformations at different scales that could be challenging to be identified and documented. The impacts of such events like Universal Exhibitions are difficult to be identified and tracked in space and over a long period of time. This paper discusses the use of open-source geospatial technologies as innovative tools in support of urban planning and management of digital cities, analysing in particular the case of an international exhibition in the urban landscape. A GIS-based approach is used to design a spatially enabled database, which is essential for implementing advanced analytics in modern smart cities. The pilot project proposes the design and implementation of such georeferenced database for monitoring the urban transformations of the area used for Expo 2015 Milano (Italy). The potential of GIS environment in the consultation process, which allows to obtain different interactive views and to make selections and queries of the data, is explored. The paper also discusses the possibility of publishing such prototype on a shared platform, allowing a larger non-technical audience to follow the urban evolution of the area in a diachronic perspective.

Prostate cancer represents the most common type of cancer among males and the second leading cause of cancer death in men in Western society. In most cases (~70%), PC has a slow and symptom-free growth, whereas it is more aggressive in the remaining patients. Current PC therapies prevalently target the proliferative function of the androgen receptor and may only be effective within short periods, beyond which the disease will progress to metastatic and castration-resistant phenotype. Preclinical and clinical studies are aimed at investigating the molecular basis for prostate cancer spreading. Although considerable efforts have been made to dissect the programs that foster prostate cancer spreading, few biomarkers predictive of metastatic phenotype have yet been identified and few therapeutic options are available for treatment of the metastatic disease. In the present paper, we will discuss innovative aspects of prostate cancer biology, which impinge on the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts and the released matrix metalloproteinases in the disease progression. Investigating these aspects might allow the discovery of clinically actionable biomarkers to target in the advanced stages of prostate cancer.

Abstract Background G-quadruplex (G4) motifs are nucleic acid secondary structures observed in mammalian genomes and transcriptomes able to regulate various cellular processes. Several small molecules have been developed so far to modulate G4 stability, frequently associated with anticancer activity. However, how G4 structures are regulated over homeostatic conditions is mostly unexplored. Here, we used human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) to address the role of G4 motifs during adipogenic differentiation. Methods Adipocyte differentiation of ASCs was investigated in the presence or absence of a well-known G4 ligand, Braco-19. Cell viability was determined by sulforhodamine B assay. Cell dimension and granularity, DNA G4 motifs and cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. Lipid droplet accumulation was assessed by Oil Red O staining. Cell senescence was evaluated by β-galactosidase staining. Gene expression was measured by qPCR. Protein release in the extracellular medium was quantified by ELISA. Results Braco-19 used at non-cytotoxic concentrations induced morphological changes in mature adipocytes partially restoring an undifferentiated-like status. Braco-19 reduced lipid vacuolization and PPARG, AP2, LEP and TNFA mRNA levels in terminally differentiated cells. No effect was observed in cell senescence, fibrotic markers, IL-6 and IL-8 production, while the secretion of VEGF was dose-dependently reduced. Interestingly, G4 structures were increased in differentiated adipocytes compared to their precursors. Braco-19 treatment reduced G4 content in mature adipocytes. Conclusions Our data highlight a new role of G4 motifs as genomic structural elements related to human ASC differentiation into mature adipocytes, with potential implications in physio-pathological processes.

Abstract Prostate cancer (PC) represents the most diagnosed and the second most lethal cancer in men worldwide. Its development and progression occur in concert with alterations in the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), made up of stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) that dynamically interact with epithelial PC cells affecting their growth and invasiveness. PC cells, in turn, can functionally sculpt the TME through the secretion of various factors, including neurotrophins. Among them, the nerve growth factor (NGF) that is released by both epithelial PC cells and carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) triggers the activation of various intracellular signaling cascades, thereby promoting the acquisition of a metastatic phenotype. After many years of investigation, it is indeed well established that aberrations and/or derangement of NGF signaling are involved not only in neurological disorders, but also in the pathogenesis of human proliferative diseases, including PC. Another key feature of cancer progression is the nerve outgrowth in TME and the concept of nerve dependence related to perineural invasion is currently emerging. NGF released by cancer cells can be a driver of tumor neurogenesis and nerves infiltrated in TME release neurotransmitters, which might stimulate the growth and sustainment of tumor cells. In this review, we aim to provide a snapshot of NGF action in the interactions between TME, nerves and PC cells. Understanding the molecular basis of this dialogue might expand the arsenal of therapeutic strategies against this widespread disease.