Search

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a fatal citrus disease that is currently threatening citrus varieties worldwide. One putative causative agent, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), is vectored by Diaphorina citri, known as the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP). Understanding the details of CLas infection in HLB disease has been hindered by its Candidatus nature and the inability to confidently detect it in diseased trees during the asymptomatic stage. To identify early changes in citrus metabolism in response to inoculation of CLas using its natural psyllid vector, leaves from Madam Vinous sweet orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) trees were exposed to CLas-positive ACP or CLas-negative ACP and longitudinally analyzed using transcriptomics (RNA sequencing), proteomics (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry; data available in Dryad: 10.25338/B83H1Z), and metabolomics (proton nuclear magnetic resonance). At 4 weeks postexposure (wpe) to psyllids, the initial HLB plant response was primarily to the ACP and, to a lesser extent, the presence or absence of CLas. Additionally, analysis of 4, 8, 12, and 16 wpe identified 17 genes and one protein as consistently differentially expressed between leaves exposed to CLas-positive ACP versus CLas-negative ACP. This study informs identification of early detection molecular targets and contributes to a broader understanding of vector-transmitted plant pathogen interactions.

ABSTRACT Amorphous calcium phosphates (ACPs) represent a family of bioactive compounds particularly relevant to bone regeneration. However, due to their intrinsic metastability, their processing into 3D‐shaped materials cannot be undergone by conventional sintering methods and requires cold sintering approaches. Also, their microstructure and local compositional changes still have to be explored in detail. To this aim, spectroscopy techniques are particularly appealing to probe local chemical environments at the microscale. Concerning ACPs, one question regards the distribution of (hydrogenated) phosphate species, as they may lead to various evolutionary trends. In this contribution, we purposely exploited the laser–beam interaction through Raman mapping to trigger the in situ HPO42−‐to‐P2O74− transformation. Analysis by a multivariate approach allowed us to spot P2O74− clusters resulting from HPO42−‐rich initial domains. Moreover, a blue shift of the ν1PO43− band was noticed in the close vicinity of these clusters, thus evidencing a local evolution of the chemical composition of the ACP. These results, corroborated by differential thermal analysis, demonstrate the relevance of using the laser–sample interaction through local heating to probe the spatial evolution induced, in our case, by an ultrafast compaction process. Comparison of outcomes obtained using two different laser/power strategies finally evidenced the need to adapt the Raman analytical conditions to the behavior of the metastable material to analyze. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in human-in-the-loop or human-centric research have sparked a new wave of scientific exploration. These studies have enhanced the understanding of complex social systems and contributed to more sustainable artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystems. However, the incorporation of human or social factors increases system complexity, making traditional approaches inadequate for managing these complex systems and necessitating a novel operational paradigm. Over decades of work, a mature and comprehensive theory of parallel intelligence (PI) has been established. Rooted in cyber-physical-social systems (CPSS), PI adapts flexibly to various situations within complex systems through the ACP framework (Artificial systems, Computational experiments, and Parallel execution), ensuring system reliability. This paper provides a detailed review and a novel perspective on PI, beginning with the historical and philosophical origins of CPSS and proceeding to present both the fundamental framework and technological implementations of PI. PI-based Industry 5.0 is highlighted, where three pillars are adopted to help realize the supposed vision. Additionally, the paper outlines applications of PI in multiple fields, such as transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture, and discusses the opportunities and challenges for imaginative intelligence. The continuous exploration of PI is expected to eventually facilitate the realization of “6S”-based (safe, secure, sustainable, sensitive, service, and smart) parallel ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Code status orders are standard practice impacting end-of-life care for individuals. This study reviews the impact of a COVID unit on physician behaviors towards goal-concordant end-of-life care at an urban academic tertiary-care hospital. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of code status ordering on adult inpatients comparing the pre-pandemic period to patients who tested positive, negative and were not tested during the pandemic from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2020. Results: We analyzed 59,471 unique patient encounters (n = 35,317 pre-pandemic and n = 24,154 during). 1,631 cases of COVID-19 were seen. The rate of code status orders among all inpatients increased from 22% pre-pandemic to 29% during the pandemic (P <.001). Code status orders increased for both patients who were COVID-negative (32% P <.001) and COVID-positive (65% P <.001). Being in a cohorted COVID unit increased code status ordering by an odds of 4.79 (P <.001). Compared to the pre-pandemic cohort, the COVID-positive cohort is less female (50% to 56% P <.001), more Black (66% to 61% P <.001), more Hispanic (6.5% to 5%) and less white (26% to 30% P <.001). Compared to Black patients, white patients had lower odds (.86) of code status ordering (P <.001). Other race/ethnicity categories were not significant. Conclusions: Code status ordering remains low. Compared to pre-pandemic rates, the frequency of orders placed significantly increased for all patients during the pandemic. The largest increase occurred in patients with COVID-19. This increase likely occurred due to protocols in the COVID unit and disease uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights An AI-enabled web application was developed to classify insects on sticky traps. The AI models were trained on images exposed to real environmental conditions. Automated insect identification can enhance integrated pest management. This technology could be used in other environmental applications. The Huanglongbing (HLB) disease has had a devastating impact on several citrus production areas across the world. The disease is associated with three phloem-limited bacteria of the Candidatus Liberibacter group, which can be vectored by citrus-infesting psyllids. In Florida, it is vectored by Diaphorina citri, also known as Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), and in South Africa, by a native species, Trioza erytreae, or African citrus triozid (ACT). For better disease management, continued monitoring of these vectors is highly recommended. Furthermore, it is important to keep track of other related psyllids that reside in citrus environments (e.g., the South African native Diaphorina specimens DN, such as D. virgata, D. punctulata, and D. zebrana), as well as natural predators of psyllids (e.g., lady beetles, LB). Among the tools used to monitor pests in the field, sticky traps are one of the most common and widely used. Analyzing the traps and identifying the specimens of interest usually require specialized personnel, which can be costly and time-consuming. In an effort to automate this process, a web application called “Psyllid Detector” was developed. Three YOLOv7-based object detection algorithms (YOLOv7, YOLOv7-ResNet50, and YOLOv7-ResNeXt50) were selected to train six models using two datasets (South Africa and Florida datasets) composed of yellow sticky trap pictures taken from several citrus orchards. Three models were trained to detect ACP and LB using the Florida dataset, and three were trained to detect DN and ACT in the South Africa dataset. The models trained with the original YOLOv7 for both datasets showed the best overall results. For example, for the ACT detection in the South Africa dataset, precision, recall, and F1 scores of 90%, 70%, and 79% were achieved, respectively. By automating the process of insect detection, farmers can save time and resources and make informed decisions about pest control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a comparison and classification of PV system architectures with the aim of limiting the impact of the partial shading phenomenon which remains one of the most harmful defects during the production of electrical energy with significant consequences on output power, current and voltage. the methodological approach used consists of analyzing in depth the main most recent architectures developed in the current literature with their advantages and disadvantages; then define five partial shading scenarios for different irradiance levels (1000W/m2; 900W/m2; 700W/m2; 500W/m2; 300W/m2), which will then be immediately applied to five other proposed architectures: SP (serial-parallel), BL (Bridge-Link); HC (Honey Comb); TCT (Total-Cross-Tied); TSPL (Triple Series Parallel Ladder); the values obtained at the output with each of its architectures will be used for an in-depth descriptive analysis with PCA (principal component analysis) in statistics but to carry out a comparative analysis between the architectures. All with a Matlab Simulink 2022.b software environment. The results obtained offer a strong positive correlation for TCP and TSPL architectures with better weight compared to other architectures. All in accordance with the IEEE-519-2022 standard. This work is therefore positioned as a contribution to the optimization of the performance of electrical energy production through the use of PV systems which today represent widely used alternatives in the renewable energy register.

Abstract Background Research evidence suggests that a lack of engagement with palliative care and advance care planning could be attributed to a lack of knowledge, presence of misconceptions and stigma within the general public. However, the importance of how death, dying and bereavement are viewed and experienced has been highlighted as an important aspect in enabling public health approaches to palliative care. Therefore, research which explores the public views on strategies to facilitate engagement with palliative care and advance care planning is required. Methods Exploratory, qualitative design, utilising purposive random sampling from a database of participants involved in a larger mixed methods study. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted (n = 28) and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Thematic findings were mapped to the social-ecological model framework to provide a holistic understanding of public behaviours in relation to palliative care and advance care planning engagement. Results Three themes were generated from the data: “Visibility and relatability”; “Embedding opportunities for engagement into everyday life”; “Societal and cultural barriers to open discussion”. Evidence of interaction across all five social ecological model levels was identified across the themes, suggesting a multi-level public health approach incorporating individual, social, structural and cultural aspects is required for effective public engagement. Conclusions Public views around potential strategies for effective engagement in palliative care and advance care planning services were found to be multifaceted. Participants suggested an increase in visibility within the public domain to be a significant area of consideration. Additionally, enhancing opportunities for the public to engage in palliative care and advance care planning within everyday life, such as education within schools, is suggested to improve death literacy and reduce stigma. For effective communication, socio-cultural aspects need to be explored when developing strategies for engagement with all members of society.

Enamel remineralization, which attempts to generate a mineral layer structurally similar to native enamel and restore its mechanical properties, remains a significant challenge. Here, rationally designed peptide amphiphile (PA) molecules bind to amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) particles via electrostatic interactions, imparting anisotropic properties that drive PA‐modified ACP to form spindle‐shaped aggregates. Furthermore, some residual PA molecules may further regulate crystallization and facilitate the formation of well‐aligned hydroxyapatite bundles. Additionally, the involvement of PA can mediate the ordered deposition and fusion of ACP on the enamel surface, and construct the crystalline‐amorphous mineralization front with a continuous structure. This mineralization front ensures epitaxially oriented growth of enamel crystals and achieves a structurally ordered mineral layer similar to that of native enamel, while the mechanical performance is effectively restored. More significantly, the thickness of the newly formed mineral layer can be augmented through cyclic remineralization, benefitting the design of products intended for practical enamel repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research evidence suggests that a lack of engagement with palliative care and advance care planning could be attributed to a lack of knowledge, presence of misconceptions and stigma within the general public. However, the importance of how death, dying and bereavement are viewed and experienced has been highlighted as an important aspect in enabling public health approaches to palliative care. Therefore, research which explores the public views on strategies to facilitate engagement with palliative care and advance care planning is required. Methods: Exploratory, qualitative design, utilising purposive random sampling from a database of participants involved in a larger mixed methods study. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted (n = 28) and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Thematic findings were mapped to the social-ecological model framework to provide a holistic understanding of public behaviours in relation to palliative care and advance care planning engagement. Results: Three themes were generated from the data: "Visibility and relatability"; "Embedding opportunities for engagement into everyday life"; "Societal and cultural barriers to open discussion". Evidence of interaction across all five social ecological model levels was identified across the themes, suggesting a multi-level public health approach incorporating individual, social, structural and cultural aspects is required for effective public engagement. Conclusions: Public views around potential strategies for effective engagement in palliative care and advance care planning services were found to be multifaceted. Participants suggested an increase in visibility within the public domain to be a significant area of consideration. Additionally, enhancing opportunities for the public to engage in palliative care and advance care planning within everyday life, such as education within schools, is suggested to improve death literacy and reduce stigma. For effective communication, socio-cultural aspects need to be explored when developing strategies for engagement with all members of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ratiometric fluorescence sensors with quantum dots (QDs) as signal reporters have been widely used in biomarkers testing. However, there are few reports on the construction of a ratio fluorescence sensor based on the dual action of enzyme reaction and QDs. In this study, a "two-in-one" multifunctional catalytic QDs (BSA-MnO2 QDs) developed by hydrothermal method displayed excellent fluorescent properties and high oxidase-like activity. Its optimal quantum yield and Michaelis–Menten kinetics constants Km were 10.7% and 0.072 mM, respectively. In the presence of an enzyme substrate, the ratiometric signal can be generated indirectly by BSA-MnO2 QDs catalyzing, which was more conducive to the construction of a ratio fluorescence biosensor and made the experiment result more accurate. Based on these advantages, an acid phosphatase (ACP) ratiometric fluorescence biosensor was designed. In the absence of ACP, o-phenylenediamine (OPD) was catalyzed to produce 2,3-diaminophenothiazine (DAP) (the oxidized fluorescent product of OPD) that has an inner-filter effect with BSA-MnO2 QDs. Conversely, in the presence of ACP, l-ascorbic acid-2-phosphate was dephosphorylated to produce ascorbic acid, which inhibited the oxidase-like activity of BSA-MnO2 QDs and prevented the catalytic oxidation of OPD to DAP. The method can achieve the assay of ACP with a detection limit of 0.038 mU/mL. In addition, this effect can be achieved when other natural enzymes catalyze substrates to produce reducing substances. In this study, a universal ratio fluorescence probe (BSA-MnO2 QDs) was discovered and prepared for the first time, which has wide application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Acute polyradiculoneuritis is a common peripheral nerve disorder in dogs, in most cases self-limiting and benign. Electrodiagnostic tests are frequently performed 7 days after the beginning of clinical signs, delaying the correct diagnosis of ACP and other diseases with similar onset. This study aims to retrospectively evaluate 71 dogs with suspected cases of acute polyradiculoneuritis for whom early electrodiagnostic testing (within 6 days) was conducted on some dogs and later testing (7–15 days) on others. Dogs tested later (7–15 days) exhibited more electromyographic abnormalities. Patients tested in the first 6 days exhibited frequent motor nerve conduction and F-wave abnormalities, similar to patients tested between 7 and 15 days. Our results suggest that neurophysiological abnormalities in acute polyradiculoneuritis can be detected within 6 days, enabling an early diagnosis. Acute canine polyradiculoneuritis (ACP) is a common peripheral neuropathy in dogs, and is generally self-limiting and benign. Electrodiagnostic (EDX) tests are typically performed after 7–10 days. Delaying the definitive diagnosis may hamper the treatment of other causes of acute weakness, which may require specific treatments and may carry different prognoses. This retrospective multicenter study aims to assess whether EDX performed within the first 6 days of clinical signs onset can detect alterations indicative of ACP, and aims to characterize the most prevalent alterations. A total of 71 dogs with suspected ACP were retrospectively analyzed and classified into two groups based on EDX timing: early group (EG, 1–6 days after symptom onset) and late group (LG, 7–15 days after symptom onset). In our study, no significant differences were found between the two groups in motor nerve conduction studies (MNCSs) and F-wave analysis, indicating that EDX is able to demonstrate abnormalities even in the first 6 days from onset. Although the LG showed significantly greater degrees of electromyographic (EMG) alterations compared to the EG, frequent muscle alterations were still observed in the EG group. These findings support the use of EDX in patients with suspected ACP within the first 6 days from the clinical onset. Prompt neurophysiological examinations for suspected ACP patients can be performed effectively and can help allow for early diagnosis and facilitate appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Cyclic purine nucleotides are important signal transduction molecules across all domains of life. 3′,5′-cyclic di-adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) has roles in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, while the signals that adjust intracellular c-di-AMP and the molecular machinery enabling a network-wide homeostatic response remain largely unknown. Here, we present evidence for an acetyl phosphate (AcP)-governed network responsible for c-di-AMP homeostasis through two distinct substrates, the diadenylate cyclase DNA integrity scanning protein (DisA) and its newly identified transcriptional repressor, DasR. Correspondingly, we found that AcP-induced acetylation exerts these regulatory actions by disrupting protein multimerization, thus impairing c-di-AMP synthesis via K66 acetylation of DisA. Conversely, the transcriptional inhibition of disA was relieved during DasR acetylation at K78. These findings establish a pivotal physiological role for AcP as a mediator to balance c-di-AMP homeostasis. Further studies revealed that acetylated DisA and DasR undergo conformational changes that play crucial roles in differentiation. Considering the broad distribution of AcP-induced acetylation in response to environmental stress, as well as the high conservation of the identified key sites, we propose that this unique regulation of c-di-AMP homeostasis may constitute a fundamental property of central circuits in Actinobacteria and thus the global control of cellular physiology.IMPORTANCESince the identification of c-di-AMP is required for bacterial growth and cellular physiology, a major challenge is the cell signals and stimuli that feed into the decision-making process of c-di-AMP concentration and how that information is integrated into the regulatory pathways. Using the bacterium Saccharopolyspora erythraea as a model, we established that AcP-dependent acetylation of the diadenylate cyclase DisA and its newly identified transcriptional repressor DasR is involved in coordinating environmental and intracellular signals, which are crucial for c-di-AMP homeostasis. Specifically, DisA acetylated at K66 directly inactivates its diadenylate cyclase activity, hence the production of c-di-AMP, whereas DasR acetylation at K78 leads to increased disA expression and c-di-AMP levels. Thus, AcP represents an essential molecular switch in c-di-AMP maintenance, responding to environmental changes and possibly hampering efficient development. Therefore, AcP-mediated posttranslational processes constitute a network beyond the usual and well-characterized synthetase/hydrolase governing c-di-AMP homeostasis.

Abstract Background Advance care planning (ACP) is becoming increasingly important in medical care. Some suggest standardized approaches to initiate ACP with all older adults. However, the idea of patient-centered care suggests more nuanced approaches tailored to individual older adults’ needs. This study investigated how older adults with different views and needs about ACP can be approached in an adequate and most beneficial way by health care professionals. Methods We used questionnaires, interviews, focus groups and informal conversations with older adults, living in their own homes, who volunteered to take part in our research. The research was participatory as we collaborated closely with practice partners and we used the obtained findings immediately and continuously to inform the next steps of our research throughout the process. Results We identified three subgroups of older adults with differential needs regarding ACP-related activities: The first group avoids talking about their needs and wishes for care towards the end of life. These older people benefit from activities, which aim at motivating them to concern themselves with ACP-related topics. The second group consists of older adults who are in principle open for ACP-conversations but do not initiate these themselves. This group either trusts their next-of-kin or their healthcare professional to act in accordance with their wishes or does not bring up the topic in order to avoid confronting relevant others with possibly unpleasant topics. This group of people benefits from information about ACP and from healthcare professionals initiating the ACP process. The third group of older people initiates the ACP process themselves, gathers information, and takes the necessary steps for ACP. With this group it remains relevant to check carefully whether they have indeed taken all relevant steps and shared the information with all relevant involved care institutions and relatives. Conclusions We propose a model to simplify adjustments of ACP to individuals’ needs. Our suggested approach might contribute to increasing the motivation of older people to engage in ACP conversations if these are more closely related to their own needs. Further, it might also contribute to simplifying the individual shaping of the ACP process for healthcare professionals as our suggested model offers clear guidance for approaching different types of older people in different ways. The suggested approach may in future be used for training health care professionals in the conduct of ACP conversations.

Given the limitations of traditional theater production processes, which heavily rely on expert experience and manual labor, the theater industry faces a pressing demand for a transition from a paradigm primarily rooted in individual expertise and traditional competencies to one that harnesses intelligent technology and data-driven approaches. This transition aims to enhance production and operational efficiency while elevating artistic expression to address the diverse preferences of audiences more effectively. Within this context, this paper proposes the concept of "parallel theaters", specifically designed to facilitate collaborative human-machine creativity and intelligent management across the entire theater workflow. By establishing a comprehensive theater model, creating a computational experimentation platform for theatrical art and enabling a virtual-to-real feedback loop, the "parallel theaters" contributes to the intelligent and automated design and execution of critical theater production and management aspects, such as script writing, stage design, performance coordination, audience engagement and marketing. In addition, the paper explores the potential cross-disciplinary applications of "parallel theaters" in education and psychotherapy, analyzing its ability to foster the integration of the theater industry with other fields, thereby expanding the influence of the performing arts. As an avant-garde model for theater creation and management, "parallel theaters" opens new avenues for the industry in the intelligence era, promising enhanced efficiency, enriched artistic expression and a more diverse audience engagement.

Background: Advance care planning (ACP) is becoming increasingly important in medical care. Some suggest standardized approaches to initiate ACP with all older adults. However, the idea of patient-centered care suggests more nuanced approaches tailored to individual older adults' needs. This study investigated how older adults with different views and needs about ACP can be approached in an adequate and most beneficial way by health care professionals. Methods: We used questionnaires, interviews, focus groups and informal conversations with older adults, living in their own homes, who volunteered to take part in our research. The research was participatory as we collaborated closely with practice partners and we used the obtained findings immediately and continuously to inform the next steps of our research throughout the process. Results: We identified three subgroups of older adults with differential needs regarding ACP-related activities: The first group avoids talking about their needs and wishes for care towards the end of life. These older people benefit from activities, which aim at motivating them to concern themselves with ACP-related topics. The second group consists of older adults who are in principle open for ACP-conversations but do not initiate these themselves. This group either trusts their next-of-kin or their healthcare professional to act in accordance with their wishes or does not bring up the topic in order to avoid confronting relevant others with possibly unpleasant topics. This group of people benefits from information about ACP and from healthcare professionals initiating the ACP process. The third group of older people initiates the ACP process themselves, gathers information, and takes the necessary steps for ACP. With this group it remains relevant to check carefully whether they have indeed taken all relevant steps and shared the information with all relevant involved care institutions and relatives. Conclusions: We propose a model to simplify adjustments of ACP to individuals' needs. Our suggested approach might contribute to increasing the motivation of older people to engage in ACP conversations if these are more closely related to their own needs. Further, it might also contribute to simplifying the individual shaping of the ACP process for healthcare professionals as our suggested model offers clear guidance for approaching different types of older people in different ways. The suggested approach may in future be used for training health care professionals in the conduct of ACP conversations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Changes in the health care delivery system have altered the way internal medicine (IM) is practiced, with inclusion of subspecialty advanced care practitioners (ACPs) as vital members of the health care team. Methods ACPs are provided the clinical settings and educational resources within an academic center to become competent in recognizing and managing common and complicated infectious diseases (ID). The ID ACP will be given progressive responsibility with expectations for achievement of milestones as they develop into competent practitioners. We seek to ensure quality, cost-effective, and comprehensive patient-centered care on the ID service in the inpatient and ambulatory settings in compliance with national standards and scope of practice recommendations and regulations. Results In recognition of the expanding role of ACPs, we developed a curriculum and guidelines in the subspecialty of ID. Conclusions Our proposal greatly adds to the available literature for ACPs to provide the full spectrum of ID practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefit from the strong coordination property, lanthanide metal ions have been used as competitive reagents to modulate the fluorescence changes of the system. However, lanthanide metal ions as inducers for aggregation-induced emission enhancement in nanosystems is rare. Herein, we report a "turn on–off-on" fluorescent switch for cascade detection of acid phosphatase (ACP) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) based on the competitive coordination of samarium ions (Sm3+). Novel copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) with long wavelength emission (614 nm) stabilized by glutathione (GSH) and glycylglycine (Gly-Gly) have been confirmed to have AIE property. With the continuous aggregation of GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs under the induction of Sm3+, the fluorescence of the system increased to achieve the "turn-on" process. The coordinated behaviour between Sm3+ and GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs is discussed. Due to the strong metal coordination ability of ATP, the Sm3+ coordinated with the GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs is competed out, resulting in the fluorescence "turn-off" process of the system. As the substrate of enzymatic hydrolysis of ACP, with the continuous hydrolysis of ATP by ACP, Sm3+ coordinates with GSH/Gly-Gly CuNCs again, which leads to the AIE effect and realize the fluorescence "turn-on" process of the system. This strategy results in ATP linear range of 0.508 ~ 120.0 μM with a detection limit of 0.508 μM (S/N = 3) and ACP linear range of 0.011 ~ 30.0 U·L−1 with a detection limit of 0.011 U·L−1 (S/N = 3). Application to biologic samples was successful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is a major producer of honey and is internationally recognized for the quality of this product. To assess the quality of the product, physicochemical analyses were carried out. In this sense, samples of honey from the eleven agroecological zones of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, were analyzed for moisture content, pH, reducing sugars, apparent sucrose, water activity, diastase enzyme, color, and Lund reaction. Sixty-five samples of honey collected in the 2018-2019 harvest and 50 in the 2019-2020 harvest were analyzed. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance and the Scott & Knott test (p<0.05) with the aid of scripts written in the R language. Principal component analysis (PCA) was also applied to the physicochemical dataset to verify possible sample groupings between the agroecological zones of the State and interactions between the variables. Moisture and apparent sucrose contents of the honey showed the greatest discrepancies in their values regarding what is permitted by the Brazilian legislation. Three agroecological zones were correlated in terms of the data found. PCA showed that moisture, pH, and water activity were relevant physicochemical parameters for grouping and discriminating samples. From the results herein shown, it is perceived the need for continuous monitoring of honey produced in Santa Catarina State, as well as the qualification of beekeepers for harvesting, processing, and storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aluminium composite panel ACP is used as an outer decoration for building facade cladding. In general, these frontal faces of buildings are exposed to weather conditions, like (temperature, rain, wind speed, etc.). The aim of present research is investigating the wind speed influence upon the fatigue life for the ACP under a range of wind speeds varying between (4 m/s) and to (17 m/s). The mechanical properties of ACP were measured by tensile and fatigue tests. Three specimens of the tensile test were fabricated according to standard dimensions. The bending stress was applied as amplitude load, and the number of cycles to failure was recorded and plotted in the (S-N) curve. The fatigue limit was detected according to the number of cycles (106). Three models of the ACP material were simulated, using the software ANSYS version 15 at different areas (0.8, 1, and 1.2 m2), and a safety factor was detected that was generated by the fatigue load. The results manifested that the fatigue limit of the ACP material is around 2.3 MPa. The outcomes elucidated that the decrease in applied load leads to an increase in the number of cycles to failure owing to the fatigue load. On the other hand, the safe wind speed is (14.8 m/s) for the (0.8 m2) area, while (13 m/s) and (11 m/s) can be safe in the design for the areas (1 m2) and (1.2 m2), respectively. The commercial (ACP) can be used as an external decoration in Baghdad city in any tested area if the wind speed does not exceed 11 m/s due to its ability to carry out the atmospheric conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Intelligent Science & Technology is the property of Beijing Xintong Media Co., Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

O Brasil é um grande produtor de mel e é reconhecido internacionalmente pela qualidade deste produto. Para avaliar a qualidade do produto foram realizadas análises físico-químicas. Nesse sentido, amostras de mel das onze zonas agroecológicas de Santa Catarina, sul do Brasil, foram analisadas quanto ao teor de umidade, pH, açúcares redutores, sacarose aparente, atividade de água, enzima diastase, cor e reação de Lund. Foram analisadas 65 amostras de mel coletadas na safra 2018-2019 e 50 na safra 2019-2020. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e ao teste de Scott & Knott (p

Las especies híbridas se adaptan mejor a diferentes ambientes que sus progenitores. El pino híbrido (pino híbrido PEE×PCH) entre Pinus elliottii Engelm var. elliottii × Pinus caribaea Morlet var. hondurensis (Sénéclauze) W.H. Barrett & Golfari ha mostrado buen desempeño en regiones subtropicales de Australia, Brasil, Estados Unidos, Sudáfrica y Argentina. Sin embargo, su principal limitante en la expansión del área de plantación es la susceptibilidad del material al daño generado por las bajas temperaturas. Para ello se evaluó por medio de un análisis de componentes principales, como los caracteres asociados a crecimiento, desarrollo fenológico y diferentes condiciones de micrositio afectan a 3 familias de pino híbrido PEE×PCH y a su parental femenino Pinus elliottii. Se encontró un efecto diferencial del daño por bajas temperaturas a nivel sitio de plantación (BAJO y ALTO), especie (PEE y PEE×PCH), pero no a nivel de familia híbrida (F12, F28 y F51) afectando a todas por igual. Su crecimiento inicial y la rápida respuesta a condiciones favorables de crecimiento, son los principales factores que causan la susceptibilidad a bajas temperaturas.

The objective of this paper is to introduce a novel design for a flexible Ultra-High Frequency tag (UHF tag) through the utilization of the meander line technique (MLA) and loop antenna method. The primary goal is to achieve a compact UHF tag operating at 868 MHz. The physical dimensions of the UHF tag are 110×12×0.1mm3. The proposed UHF tag is manufactured using the inkjet printing method on a polyamide substrate featuring a relative dielectric constant of 3.5, a tangent loss of 0.0027, and a height of 0.0508 mm. Through electromagnetic simulation and validation, the functionality of the proposed UHF tag covers the UHF band ranging from 854.57 to 883.89 MHz, with a bandwidth of 29.32 MHz. The reflection coefficient at 868 MHz is approximately -22.46 dB. The simulated gain measures 1.79 dBi, while the theoretical read range is estimated at 5 m. The UHF tag is produced using silver ink with a thickness of 0.05 mm and assembled using an anisotropic conductive paste (ACP). Subsequent to electromagnetic simulation, the UHF tag’s performance is confirmed through a reading test conducted with a radio frequency identification (RFID) base station. The results are consistent with the theoretical expectations, showcasing a commendable read range of 5 m. To safeguard the UHF tag from challenging environmental conditions, it is enclosed within a polyethylene film (PE). Following encapsulation, the read range decreases to 3 m, making it suitable for RFID applications requiring mid-range capabilities.

Sharhili Nature Reserve is a natural treasure which enjoys both rare biological resources and incalculable ecological value, and it is known as “China’s last pure land” and “rare natural gene pool”.To ensure the sustainable development of this natural treasure, this study proposes the concept of “Parallel Sharhili”, which comprehensively assists in the precise management of ecological resources through intelligent means.The core idea involves utilizing “artificial systems” for description to build high-precision models, “computational experiments” for prediction to analyze ecosystem changes, and “parallel execution” for prescription or control and management to scientifically formulate conservation strategies.This study explores an intelligent management model for nature reserves, aiming at promoting the sustainable development of the reserve and its precious biological resources.

新疆夏尔希里自然保护区是一处珍稀生物资源与无法估量的生态价值共融的自然瑰宝，被誉为“中国最后的净土”和“珍稀的天然基因库”。为确保这一自然宝库的可持续发展，提出了“平行夏尔希里”概念，以智能化手段全方位助力其生态资源的精细化管理。核心思想是利用描述智能建立高精度模型，通过预测智能分析生态系统变化，借助引导智能科学地制定保护策略。探索了通过智能科技建立自然保护区管理与应用的新模式，以期推动保护区及其珍贵生物资源的可持续发展。

BackgroundAdvance care planning allows patients to share their preferences for medical care with the aim of ensuring goal-concordant care in times of serious illness. The morbidity and mortality of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the importance and public visibility of advance care planning. However, little is known about the frequency and quality of advance care planning documentation during the pandemic.AimThis study examined the frequency, quality, and predictors of advance care planning documentation among hospitalized medical patients with and without COVID-19.DesignThis retrospective cohort analysis used multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with advance care planning documentation.Setting/participantsThis study included all adult patients tested for COVID-19 and admitted to a tertiary medical center in San Francisco, CA during March 2020.ResultsAmong 262 patients, 31 (11.8%) tested positive and 231 (88.2%) tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. The rate of advance care planning documentation was 38.7% in patients with COVID-19 and 46.8% in patients without COVID-19 (p = 0.45). Documentation consistently addressed code status (100% and 94.4% for COVID-positive and COVID-negative, respectively), but less often named a surrogate decision maker, discussed prognosis, or elaborated on other wishes for care. Palliative care consultation was associated with increased advance care planning documentation (OR: 6.93, p = 0.004).ConclusionThis study found low rates of advance care planning documentation for patients both with and without COVID-19 during an evolving global pandemic. Advance care planning documentation was associated with palliative care consultation, highlighting the importance of such consultation to ensure timely, patient-centered advance care planning.

Abstract Background Advance care planning (ACP) is a way of applying modern medicine to the principle of patient autonomy and ensuring that patients receive medical care that is consistent with their values, goals and preferences. Robust evidence supports the benefits of ACP, but it remains an underutilized resource in most countries. This paper goes from the naïve point of view, and seeks to identify the barriers and facilitators to implementation in unfamiliarized contexts and in a whole system approach involving the clinical, institutional and policy level to improve the implementation of ACP. Methods Qualitative interviews were chosen to enable an explorative, flexible design. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 40 health care professionals and chief physicians in hospitals and in municipalities. The thematic analysis was done following Braun and Clarke’s strategy for thematic analysis. Results The main reported barriers were the lack of time and space, a lack of culture and leadership legitimizing ACP, lack of common communication systems, and unclear responsibility about who should initiate, resulting in missed opportunities and overtreatment. Policy development, public and professional education, and standardization of documentation were reported as key to facilitate ACP and build trust across the health care system. Conclusions Progressively changing the education of health professionals and the clinical culture are major efforts that need to be tackled to implement ACP in unfamiliarized contexts, particularly in contexts where patient's wishes are not legally binding. This will need to be tackled through rectifying the misconception that ACP is only about death, and providing practical training for health professionals, as well as developing policies and legislation on how to include patients and caregivers in the planning of care.

Antecedentes: Allium glandulosum Link & Otto se distribuye ampliamente desde el sur de Estados Unidos, México y Centroamérica. En México se distribuye en 27 estados, en ambientes contrastantes. Sin embargo, no se ha estudiado si su patrón de distribución se refleja en una amplia variación morfológica. Pregunta y/o Hipótesis: ¿La variación morfológica vegetativa y floral en Allium glandulosum a lo largo de su distribución en México permite diferenciar entre poblaciones de esta especie? Especie de estudio: Allium glandulosum Link & Otto. Sitio y fechas de estudio: Poblaciones de Allium glandulosum con distribución en el Eje Volcánico Transmexicano y la Altiplanicie Mexicana, durante el 2020. Métodos: Se determinaron y midieron caracteres morfológicos cualitativos y cuantitativos de ejemplares herborizados y de especímenes recolectados en campo. Se emplearon métodos estadísticos univariados y multivariados para describir y sintetizar la variabilidad de las recolectas de campo y materiales herborizados. Resultados: El análisis de componentes principales mostró que 14 caracteres representan el 51.29 % de la variación total acumulada en los primeros tres componentes. El análisis discriminante lineal resulto en la formación de cuatro grupos y el porcentaje de clasificación de los individuos fue de 71.53 %. El análisis de conglomerados mostró cuatro agrupaciones, diferenciados por caracteres cuantitativos y cualitativos. Conclusiones: La variación morfológica vegetativa y floral de Allium glandulosum permite diferenciar entre las poblaciones de la especie a lo largo de su distribución en México.

Background: Guidelines recommend Advance Care Planning (ACP) for seriously ill older adults to increase the patient-centeredness of end-of-life care. Few interventions target the inpatient setting. Objective: To test the effect of a novel physician-directed intervention on ACP conversations in the inpatient setting. Design: Stepped wedge cluster-randomized design with five 1-month steps (October 2020–February 2021), and 3-month extensions at each end. Setting: A total of 35/125 hospitals staffed by a nationwide physician practice with an existing quality improvement initiative to increase ACP (enhanced usual care). Participants: Physicians employed for ≥ 6 months at these hospitals; patients aged ≥ 65 years they treated between July 2020–May 2021. Intervention: Greater than or equal to 2 h of exposure to a theory-based video game designed to increase autonomous motivation for ACP; enhanced usual care. Main measure: ACP billing (data abstractors blinded to intervention status). Results: A total of 163/319 (52%) invited, eligible hospitalists consented to participate, 161 (98%) responded, and 132 (81%) completed all tasks. Physicians' mean age was 40 (SD 7); most were male (76%), Asian (52%), and reported playing the game for ≥ 2 h (81%). These physicians treated 44,235 eligible patients over the entire study period. Most patients (57%) were ≥ 75; 15% had COVID. ACP billing decreased between the pre- and post-intervention periods (26% v. 21%). After adjustment, the homogeneous effect of the game on ACP billing was non-significant (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.88–1.06; p = 0.42). There was effect modification by step (p < 0.001), with the game associated with increased billing in steps 1–3 (OR 1.03 [step 1]; OR 1.15 [step 2]; OR 1.13 [step 3]) and decreased billing in steps 4–5 (OR 0.66 [step 4]; OR 0.95 [step 5]). Conclusions: When added to enhanced usual care, a novel video game intervention had no clear effect on ACP billing, but variation across steps of the trial raised concerns about confounding from secular trends (i.e., COVID). Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov; NCT 04557930, 9/21/2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute canine polyradiculoneuritis (ACP) is a common peripheral neuropathy in dogs, and is generally self-limiting and benign. Electrodiagnostic (EDX) tests are typically performed after 7–10 days. Delaying the definitive diagnosis may hamper the treatment of other causes of acute weakness, which may require specific treatments and may carry different prognoses. This retrospective multicenter study aims to assess whether EDX performed within the first 6 days of clinical signs onset can detect alterations indicative of ACP, and aims to characterize the most prevalent alterations. A total of 71 dogs with suspected ACP were retrospectively analyzed and classified into two groups based on EDX timing: early group (EG, 1–6 days after symptom onset) and late group (LG, 7–15 days after symptom onset). In our study, no significant differences were found between the two groups in motor nerve conduction studies (MNCSs) and F-wave analysis, indicating that EDX is able to demonstrate abnormalities even in the first 6 days from onset. Although the LG showed significantly greater degrees of electromyographic (EMG) alterations compared to the EG, frequent muscle alterations were still observed in the EG group. These findings support the use of EDX in patients with suspected ACP within the first 6 days from the clinical onset. Prompt neurophysiological examinations for suspected ACP patients can be performed effectively and can help allow for early diagnosis and facilitate appropriate treatment.

We have identified a corazonin G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) gene in the tick Ixodes scapularis , which likely plays a central role in the physiology and behavior of this ectoparasite. This receptor gene is unusually large (1.133 Mb) and yields two corazonin (CRZ) receptor splice variants, where nearly half of the coding regions are exchanged: CRZ-Ra (containing exon 2, exon 3, and exon 4 of the gene) and CRZ-Rb (containing exon 1, exon 3, and exon 4 of the gene). CRZ-Ra codes for a GPCR with a canonical DRF sequence at the border of the third transmembrane helix and the second intracellular loop. The positively-charged R residue from the DRF sequence is important for coupling of G proteins after activation of a GPCR. CRZ-Rb, in contrast, codes for a GPCR with an unusual DQL sequence at this position, still retaining a negatively-charged D residue, but lacking a positively-charged R residue, suggesting different G protein coupling. Another difference between the two splice variants is that exon 2 from CRZ-Ra codes for an N-terminal signal sequence. Normally, GPCRs do not have N-terminal signal sequences, although a few mammalian GPCRs have. In the tick CRZ-Ra, the signal sequence probably assists with inserting the receptor correctly into the RER membrane. We stably transfected Chinese Hamster Ovary cells with each of the two splice variants and carried out bioluminescence bioassays that also included the use of the human promiscuous G protein G 16. CRZ-Ra turned out to be selective for I. scapularis corazonin (EC 50 = 10−8 M) and could not be activated by related neuropeptides like adipokinetic hormone (AKH) and AKH/corazonin-related peptide (ACP). Similarly, also CRZ-Rb could only be activated by corazonin, although about 4-fold higher concentrations were needed to activate it (EC 50 = 4 x 10−8 M). The genomic organization of the tick corazonin GPCR gene is similar to that of the insect AKH and ACP receptor genes. This similar genomic organization can also be found in the human gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor gene, confirming previous conclusions that the corazonin, AKH, and ACP receptor genes are the true arthropod orthologues of the human GnRH receptor gene. [Display omitted] • The tick Ixodes scapularis transmits serious human diseases, such as Lyme disease. • G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial for the physiology of ticks. • Tick-specific neuropeptide GPCRs would be excellent drug targets to kill ticks. • We identified a large tick GPCR gene (1.133 Mb), coding for two splice variants. • Each splice variant encodes a specific GPCR for the tick neuropeptide corazonin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) is a commercially available platelet concentrate with promising results from clinical trials. Purpose: To evaluate the clinical outcome after 3 consecutive injections of ACP in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and study the influence of ACP composition and different patient factors as predictors of treatment effect. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: This prospective case series included 260 patients (307 knees) who received ACP treatment for knee OA. The mean patient age was 51 ± 10 years. Improvement up to 12 months' follow-up was measured using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). ACP composition was analyzed in 100 patients. The predictive value of age, sex, history of knee trauma, Kellgren-Lawrence OA grade, body mass index, and ACP composition was evaluated using generalized estimating equations. Results: The mean overall KOOS improved from 38 ± 14 at baseline to 45 ± 18 at 3 months, 45 ± 18 at 6 months, and 43 ± 18 at 12 months (all P <.05); 40% of patients achieved an improvement above the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 8 after 6 months and 33% after 12 months. The variation in ACP composition did not correlate with KOOS (P >.05). Older age led to a greater clinical benefit (β = 0.27; P =.05), whereas bilateral treatment predicted worse outcomes (β = –5.6; P <.05). Conclusion: The improvement in KOOS after treatment with ACP did not reach the MCID in most study patients. Older age was a predictor for better outcomes. The composition of ACP varied between patients but did not predict outcomes within the evaluated range. The study findings show the limited benefit of ACP treatment for knee OA and call for caution with routine use in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advance care planning (ACP) is a way of applying modern medicine to the principle of patient autonomy and ensuring that patients receive medical care that is consistent with their values, goals and preferences. Robust evidence supports the benefits of ACP, but it remains an underutilized resource in most countries. This paper goes from the naïve point of view, and seeks to identify the barriers and facilitators to implementation in unfamiliarized contexts and in a whole system approach involving the clinical, institutional and policy level to improve the implementation of ACP. Methods: Qualitative interviews were chosen to enable an explorative, flexible design. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 40 health care professionals and chief physicians in hospitals and in municipalities. The thematic analysis was done following Braun and Clarke's strategy for thematic analysis. Results: The main reported barriers were the lack of time and space, a lack of culture and leadership legitimizing ACP, lack of common communication systems, and unclear responsibility about who should initiate, resulting in missed opportunities and overtreatment. Policy development, public and professional education, and standardization of documentation were reported as key to facilitate ACP and build trust across the health care system. Conclusions: Progressively changing the education of health professionals and the clinical culture are major efforts that need to be tackled to implement ACP in unfamiliarized contexts, particularly in contexts where patient's wishes are not legally binding. This will need to be tackled through rectifying the misconception that ACP is only about death, and providing practical training for health professionals, as well as developing policies and legislation on how to include patients and caregivers in the planning of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Kuwayama), preferentially orient toward citrus hosts infected with the phytopathogenic bacterium, Candidatus liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) the agent of citrus greening (Huanglongbing, HLB), compared to uninfected counterparts. We investigated whether this preference for the odors of infected plants could be useful for the development of an attract-and-kill (AK) device for D. citri. Twenty-nine blends of volatile organic compounds derived from the odor of citrus infected with CLas were tested in laboratory olfactometer tests, and two blends were also assessed under field conditions. A seven component blend of tricosane: geranial: methyl salicylate: geranyl acetone: linalool: phenylacetaldehyde: (E)-β-ocimene in a 0.40: 0.06: 0.08: 0.29: 0.08: 0.06: 0.03 ratio released from a proprietary slow-release matrix attracted twice more D. citri to yellow sticky traps compared with blank control traps. The attractive blend was subsequently co-formulated with spinosad insecticide into a slow-release matrix to create a prototype AK formulation against D. citri. This formulation effectively reduced the population density of D. citri up to 84% as measured with tap counts when deployed at a density of eight 2.5 g dollops per tree as compared with untreated controls in small plot field trials conducted in citrus orchards. Psyllid populations were not statistically affected at a deployment rate of four dollops per tree. Our results indicate that an AK formulation incorporating spinosad and a volatile blend signature of citrus greening into a slow-release matrix may be useful to suppress D. citri populations.

With the development of fiber technology on which the composite materials depend mainly was necessary to improve the rigidity, durability, and heat transfer in the areas of heating and cooling technologies. The effect of the fatigue phenomenon on composite materials using carbon fibers is studied. In this research paper, work was performed to study the improvement in the bearing capacity of the stress test sample with the addition of carbon fibers at different angles. The stresses affecting the test specimen are cylindrical with a length of 10 cm. The results proved that the best arrangement of the carbon fibers in the form of triple layers starting from the center of the cylinder circle to the outside was the share of the arrangement layer 45, 0, 0, where the lowest value was the number of fatigue life cycles, 2349 cycles in the bending test, as the amount of stress that this case reached was 6.1×108 Pa compared to the rest of the studied cases.

With the expansion of the fields covered by AI, artistic creation will become the next hot spot for AI research and applications.Building a metaverse with diverse styles, realistic contents, flexible strokes and accurate descriptions based on parallel system theory and ACP approach will provide a feasible way to improve AI creation capability.The intelligence of human, AI, and robots were fused to develop a parallel creation architecture through the creation by AI, the evaluation by humans, and the execution by robots.The parallel creation with the key methods of style transfer, content combination, stroke generation and image captioning in computational experiments were explained.The parallel creation system was validated through the painting experiments.The parallel creation system will improve the creation capability of artificial intelligence in cyberspace and physical space, and promote the human-cyber-physical collaborative creation through the fusion of them.

随着人工智能探索领域的不断拓展，艺术创作成为人工智能发展和应用的重要研究热点。基于平行系统理论与 ACP 方法构建风格多样、内容逼真、笔触灵活和描述精准的平行艺术创作元宇宙，为提升人工智能的创造能力提供了一种可行的实现途径，并提供了应用案例。通过 AI 算法创作、人类筛选和评估、机器人执行，构建了人机物CPSS智能融合的平行创作架构，阐述了基于计算实验的绘画风格迁移、内容组合、笔触生成和图像描述等关键技术，并对所构建的平行创作系统进行了实验验证。平行创作系统融合了人、AI创作算法、机器人的优势，提升了人工智能艺术创作系统在虚拟和物理空间中的创作水平，促进了人机物协同艺术创作的发展。

Traditional air-conditioning pipes made from materials such as copper and aluminum have limitations in terms of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The use of composite materials offers a promising alternative to overcome these limitations due to improving the mechanical properties of air-conditioning pipes by incorporating composite materials. The paper explores the mechanical properties of composite materials and their potential to enhance the strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion of air-conditioning pipes. Whereas gas leakage issues have developed into one of the most significant issues in air conditioning organizations, the solution to these issues looks forward to improving the gas connection pipes in air conditioning companies and enhancing their durability. The goal of the study presented in this research paper is to improve gas pipes by adding insulating and supporting layers to increase the pipe's durability, such as layers of carbon and fiber. Through Simulation, materials have been added at various angles and directions to determine the best accessible condition to improve the condition of the ionization tube. The results revealed that the presence of carbon fiber layers at angles of 45 degrees from the inner diameter and 90 degrees from the outer diameter provides the best accessible condition and results in the least amount of distortion, with the best case's deformation reaching 0.157 meters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusion expression is widely employed to enhance the solubility of recombinant proteins. However, removal of the fusion tag is often required due to its potential impact on the structure and activity of passenger proteins. Tobacco etch virus (TEV) protease is widely used for this purpose due to its stringent sequence recognition. In the present work, fusion to the acyl carrier protein from E. coli fatty acid synthase (ACP) significantly increased the yield of recombinant soluble TEV, and the ACP tag also greatly improved TEV stability. The cleavage activity of TEV was not affected by the ACP fusion tag, and ACP-TEV retained high activity, even at unfavourable pH values. Moreover, ACP-TEV could be efficiently modified by co-expressed E. coli holo-ACP synthase (AcpS), leading to covalent attachment of 4′-phosphopantetheine (4′-PP) group to ACP. The sulfhydryl group of the long, flexible 4′-PP chain displayed high specific reactivity with iodoacetyl groups on the solid support. Thus, TEV could be immobilised effectively and conveniently via the active holo-ACP, and immobilised TEV retained high cleavage activity after a long storage period and several cycles of reuse. As a low-cost and recyclable biocatalyst, TEV immobilised by this method holds promise for biotechnological research and development. Key points: • The ACP tag greatly increased the soluble expression and stability of TEV protease. • The ACP tag did not affect the cleavage activity of TEV. • The holo-ACP Tag effectively mediated the covalent immobilisation of TEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this approach is to evaluate the formation of waste production at the communal level in a small island state. The question of waste management is an important issue for all local authorities, but it is even more so in an island context. The small island areas are all the more confronted with this problem insofar as they must combine their own specific characteristics, which can be very restrictive: isolation and remoteness, centralized economy, non-competitive domestic market, geographical and climatic conditions, growing demography, social structure and economic and energy dependence. The list is certainly not exhaustive, but it is sufficient to establish a framework for reflection, where these different specificities interact strongly with the development of these territories. Although they reveal above all remarkable and fragile ecosystems, a bad waste management policy can cause irremediable damage environmentally, economically, and socially. It is therefore important to understand the implications of waste management on the island. This approach introduces an analysis, in order to express the communal specificities of the production of residual household waste, in order to bring contextualized elements of answers to the waste management strategy of Reunion Island. Indeed, dysfunctions have been noted in the collection and transfer process and more particularly, in waste disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This expertise aims to present and analyse the bailout measures for salvaging the economy during the global pandemic COVID-19 in Slovenia in 2020 - 21, with an emphasis on the tourism industry. Based on the data obtained, the authors of the article sought to determine whether the Government of the Republic of Slovenia has tackled bailing out of the tourism sector in the right way or not and whether its measures to mitigate the effects of the epidemic have been successful or not. The government has tackled the problem of salvaging both the entire economy and, in particular, the tourism industry over ten so called Anti-Corona Packages (ACPs), which sought to ensure the liquidity of the economy (tourism) and the preservation of jobs. The analysis showed that the measures taken were timely and well targeted, placing Slovenia at the very top of countries which dealt best with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The citrus industry of Florida faces insurmountable challenges against the destructive diseases citrus tristeza and Huanglongbing (HLB, or citrus greening). Though the tristeza causal agent, citrus tristeza virus (CTV), has been in Florida decades longer than HLB, growers have concentrated most of their efforts on combating the more detrimental HLB. The Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri; ACP) is the insect vector of the bacterial pathogen Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and transmits the incurable HLB to all commercial citrus. During our searches for biological and viral controls against the ACP, we consistently detected sequences of CTV in Florida field populations of ACP. This unexpected finding led us to investigate whether ACPs collected from young shoots could be used as a tool to survey CTV in Florida citrus groves. We first surveyed for the most common CTV strains in Florida (T30, T36, and VT/T68) in citrus trees on mostly sour orange (Citrus aurantium) rootstock, the rootstock susceptible to CTV decline. Out of 968 trees sampled across five years (2018-2022), approximately 8.2% were positive for CTV, with more than half of the CTV-positive trees infected with strain T30. Simultaneously, we looked at CTV strains in ACPs during this time and found that approximately 88% of pooled adult and nymph ACPs also had CTV, with over half the positive samples having the T36 strain. As a result of the much higher CTV incidences in the ACPs, we conducted a second investigation into whether we could more easily detect the same CTV strains in ACP nymphs as in CTV-infected citrus tissue. After individually sampling 43 trees and pooling the nymphs from each tree, we detected CTV at about the same incidence in the citrus tissue and the nymphs, but with much less ACP tissue, time, and resources required for detection compared to citrus tissue. Results from this study illustrate the sustained threat of CTV to Florida citrus and demonstrate the ACP as a potential bioindicator for CTV. K [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]