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The paper presents a computing procedure with the goal of suggesting applicable solutions to improve complex cases of major recurrent depression. The focus is on identifying the patients’ illness patterns and on finding solutions for alleviating problematic symptoms. The illness patterns synthesize the outcomes of the relationship between the patients’ life themes and symptoms. The testing of the effectiveness of illness improvement solutions was conducted by evaluating and comparing the Beck scores of patients after each psychotherapy session. In addition to latent semantic analysis used to identify semantic relationships between life themes and symptoms, the research also employed the correlation method to find life themes/symptoms that are experienced undistortedly and associations between life themes that amplify latent symptoms. The computing system was applied to eleven patients with severe forms of depression and their progress was monitored for six months. The results obtained following the application of the computing system demonstrated its ability to describe personalized illness patterns and to significantly improve, through its suggestions, the illness of all patients. These findings recommend the use of the computing system in severe cases of major recurrent depression.

French Guiana is a French Overseas territory with singular features: it has a high prevalence of HIV and HTLV-1, its population is ethnically mixed, with widespread poverty, and up to 20% of the population lives in geographic isolation. In this context, we used registry data to estimate incidence and mortality due to hematological malignancies and to compare them with France and tropical Latin America. ICD codes C90 and C88 were compiled between 2005 and 2014. The direct standardization of age structure was performed using the world population. Survival analysis was performed, and Kaplan–Meier curves were drawn. The overall standardized incidence rate was 32.9 per 100,000 male years and 24.5 per 100,000 female years. Between 2005 and 2009, the standardized incidence rate was 29.6 per 100,000 among men and 23.6 per 100,000 among women, and between 2010 and 2014, it was 35.6 per 100,000 among men and 25.2 per 100,000 among women. Multiple myeloma/plasmocytoma and mature t/NK cell lymphomas, notably adult t-cell lymphoma/leukemia due to HTLV-1 infection, were the two most common hematologic malignancies and causes of death. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma incidence estimates were greater than global estimates. After adjusting for age, sex, and type of malignancy, people born in a foreign country independently had a poorer case-fatality rate, presumably reflecting difficulties in accessing care. The epidemiology of hematological malignancies in French Guiana has features that distinguish it from mainland France or from Latin America. The incidence of multiple myeloma and adult t-cell lymphoma/leukemia was significantly greater in French Guiana than in France or other Latin American countries.

Different fertilization systems, methods and techniques result in differences in plant nutrition, with variations in the mineral element contents in the leaves and values of physiological, yield, and production quality indices. This results in large datasets that are often relatively difficult to interpret. Starting from these aspects, the present study analyzed data on the state of plant nutrition (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg content in leaves, in % of dry matter; Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn content in leaves, in mg/kg of dry matter), physiological indices (chlorophyll leaf content—Chl; leaf area—LA), yield (kg/vine, t/ha), and grape berry quality (sugar and acidity content in berries) of the ‘Burgund mare’ grape cultivar in relation to organic, mineral and foliar fertilization. According to a PCA multivariate analysis, four groups of components were obtained: PC1 including five factors, with positive action in the case of K (r = 0.963), P (r = 0.770) and Cu (r = 0.752), and negative action in the case of Mg (r = −0.940) and Mn (r = −0.759); PC2 including three factors, with positive action for Chl (r = 0.938), LA (r = 0.938) and Ca (r = 0.722); PC3 including one factor (N), with negative action (r = −0.916); and PC4 including two factors, with positive action for Fe (r = 0.869) and Zn (r = 0.761). Based on the one-sample t test (parametric) and the Wilcoxon test (non-parametric) and a threshold value of α = 0.05, the differences between the index values for fertilization variants T2–T13 compared with those for the control variant (T1) were verified. Significant differences were recorded in PC1 for P, Mg and Cu; in PC2 for Chl, LA and Ca; and in PC3 for N. Insignificant differences were recorded in PC1 for K and Mn and in PC4 for Fe and Zn. In the case of the productivity elements and quality indices, significant differences were recorded.

The present study aimed to analyze and evaluate the barley crops, and also to estimate production by analyzing satellite images. The study was conducted at Didactic and Experimental Resort (DER) of BUASVM Timisoara, Timis County, Romania. The PlanetScope platform was used for the study, with a spatial resolution of 3 m. The satellite images were taken in the PlanetScope Remote Sensing System, at 7 different moments, between 27 March and 27 June 2020. Based on spectral data, MSAVI2 and NDVI indices were calculated. Four plots cultivated with barley were studied (B/A75, B/A80, B/A82 and B/A84). The variation of the MSAVI2 and NDVI indices in relation to the time factor (T, days), over the study interval, was described by the polynomial models of 2nd degree, in statistical accuracy conditions. Based on the regression analysis, the estimation of the production based on the MSAVI2 and NDVI indices was possible under the conditions of R2=0.998, P

BackgroundHuman T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus known to cause two major diseases: adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma and a progressive neuromyelopathy—tropical spastic paraparesis. Many viruses may be involved in the pathogenesis of thyroiditis; however, few studies have focused on the role of HTLV-1. We aimed to investigate the association between HTLV-1 and biological thyroid dysfunction.MethodsWe included 357 patients with a positive HTLV-1 serology and thyroid-stimulating hormone assay data between 2012 and 2021 in a hospital in French Guiana; we compared the prevalence of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in this group with that in an HTLV-1-negative control group (722 persons) matched for sex and age.ResultsThe prevalence of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in patients with HTLV-1 infection was significantly higher than that in the control group (11% versus 3.2% and 11.3% versus 2.3%, respectively; p < 0.001).ConclusionOur study shows, for the first time, the association between HTLV-1 and dysthyroidism in a large sample, suggesting that thyroid function exploration should be systematically implemented in this population as this may have an impact on therapeutic management.

Summary: Background: Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL), one of the most aggressive cancers in the world, occurs in 5% of the 10 million people living with HTLV-1 worldwide. French Guiana, a French overseas territory in South America, is one of the highest endemic areas of HTLV-1 worldwide. Here, we describe the demographic and clinical characteristics and outcome of ATL in this area. Methods: We retrospectively collected data from all patients diagnosed between 2009 and 2019. Patients were distributed according to Shimoyama's classification. Prognostic factors were explored through univariate analysis. Findings: Over the 10-year study period, 41 patients with a median age of 54 years at diagnosis were identified, among whom 56% were women. Sixteen (39%) patients were Maroons, a cultural group descendant of the runaway enslaved Africans from former Dutch Guiana. Among the study population, 23 (56%) had an acute type, 14 (34%) a lymphoma type, and one and one chronic and primary cutaneous tumour, respectively. First-lines of treatment included either chemotherapy or Zidovudine combined with pegylated interferon alpha. The 4-year overall survival was 11.4% for the entire population with 0% and 11% for lymphoma and acute forms, respectively. The median progression-free survival was 93 and 115 days for the acute and lymphoma groups (p = 0.37), respectively. Among the twenty-nine patients who died, 8 (28%) died of toxicity, 7 (24%) died of disease progression and the cause of death remained unknown in 14 (48%) patients. Due to the overall poor prognosis, no significant prognostic factors could be identified. Interpretation: This study provides real-life data from ATL patients in French Guiana, a remote territory in a middle-income region. Patients, mostly Maroons, presented with a younger age and the prognosis was worse than expected compared to Japanese patients. Funding: None.

Aim of the study The purpose of this study is to evaluate the benefits of 3D printing in the management of midface trauma, in cases in which titanium mesh was used for the reconstruction. Material and methods We performed a review of midface fracture cases in which stereolithic models were used during the preoperative planning for the pre-bending of the fixation plates and titanium meshes. We evaluated the characteristics of the case, the protocol of 3D printing, the details of titanium mesh reconstruction and the surgery outcomes. Results By performing the material shaping preoperatively the surgery duration was decreased. The complexity of the procedure was reduced, due to the detailed pre-operative planning using patient-specific 3D printed models. The pre-shaped plates and titanium mesh were useful guides to the correct fracture reduction. The titanium mesh allowed the reconstruction of comminuted areas of bone and preservation of multiple bone fragments. The postoperative outcomes were in accordance with the preoperative planning. The contours and dimensions of the midface were accurately restored, as well as the functions. Conclusions The implementation of 3D printing in the management of midface fractures has multiple advantages that justify the current use of this method in the setting of acute trauma.

Adequate management of agricultural crops requires, among other things, accessible and sufficiently accurate methods for assessing plant nutrition and crop vegetation status and for agricultural production estimation. Sustainable technologies are based on correct decisions, prompt interventions and appropriate works, and correct information in real time, and the obtaining information methods can be simple, accessible, and appropriate in relation to different user categories (e.g., farmers, researchers, decision makers). This study used mineral fertilization (NPK), with 11 experimental variants, to ensure a controlled differentiated nutrition of the wheat plants, “Alex” cultivar. Regression analysis was used to obtain models in estimating wheat production, by methods based on: (a) NPK fertilizers applied (F) in the 11 experimental variants; (b) physiological indices (PI), represented by the chlorophyll content (Chl), and plant nutrition status on the experimental variants, in terms of macroelement content in the leaves, evaluated by foliar diagnosis (Nfd, Pfd, Kfd); (c) imaging analysis (IA) based on digital images of the wheat experimental variants, and calculated indices. A set of models was obtained, with different precision levels and statistical safety: R2 = 0.763, p = 0.013 for the model based on applied fertilizers (NPKF); R2 = 0.883, p < 0.01 for the model based on foliar diagnosis (NPKfd); R2 = 0.857, p < 0.01 for the model based on chlorophyll content (Chl); R2 = 0.975, p < 0.01 for the model based on normalized rgb color parameters (RGB color system); R2 = 0.925, p < 0.01 for the model based on the DGCI calculated index. The model based on applied fertilizers (F model) was tested in relation to wheat production data, for a period of six years, communicated by other studies. Fit degree analysis between predicted yield based on the F model and real yield (six-year average) was confirmed by R2 = 0.717, compared to R2 = 0.763 for the F model in this study. The models obtained in this study, related to the “Alex” wheat cultivar, can be used for other studies, but with a certain margin of error, given the coefficient values, specific to the obtained equations. The approach concept, methods, and models presented can be opportunities for other studies to facilitate their comparative analysis, their adaptation, and/or development in the form of new models that are useful in different studies, research, or agricultural practices, for their integration into crop management strategies.

Computer vision algorithms implementations, especially for real-time applications, are present in a variety of devices that we are currently using (from smartphones or automotive applications to monitoring/security applications) and pose specific challenges, memory bandwidth or energy consumption (e.g., for mobility) being the most notable ones. This paper aims at providing a solution to improve the overall quality of real-time object detection computer vision algorithms using a hybrid hardware–software implementation. To this end, we explore the methods for a proper allocation of algorithm components towards hardware (as IP Cores) and the interfacing between hardware and software. Addressing specific design constraints, the relationship between the above components allows embedded artificial intelligence to select the operating hardware blocks (IP cores)—in the configuration phase—and to dynamically change the parameters of the aggregated hardware resources—in the instantiation phase, similar to the concretization of a class into a software object. The conclusions show the benefits of using hybrid hardware–software implementations, as well as major gains from using IP Cores, managed by artificial intelligence, for an object detection use-case, implemented on a FPGA demonstrator built around a Xilinx Zynq-7000 SoC Mini-ITX sub-system.

Business model innovation is a key success factor for IT companies competing in technologically uncertain environments. Despite the need of IoT solution developers to renew their business models to effectively create value for customers and capture value for the company, the strategic factors of business model innovation for IoT solutions have remained under-researched so far. The paper addresses this knowledge gap by exploring the strategic factors of business model innovation and its results from the perspective of RBV (Resource-Based View) theory. The theoretical foundation of this research is based on the literature of the business model innovation and the strategic marketing literature. In the empirical exploration of the strategic factors of the business model innovation, we adopted a qualitative research strategy having as methodological basis Grounded theory. More precisely, we conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with top managers at IT companies operating in Romania that have successfully developed IoT solutions. Proactive market orientation, technology orientation, entrepreneurial orientation, and adaptive marketing capabilities have been identified as strategic factors of business model innovation for IoT solutions, while competitive advantage and customer satisfaction as the main expected outcomes

Post-traumatic diabetes insipidus (PTDI) is now well recognized after head trauma, and although rare, it can have severe consequences. Although PTDI occurs especially in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), a number of cases have been reported in literature in which it can also occur in craniofacial trauma or mild TBIs. Accurate evaluation and long-term follow-up of all cranio-facial injuries are necessary to detect the occurrence of PTDI. Furthermore, future research should focus more on clinical and experimental studies to elucidate the exact mechanisms involved in post-traumatic pituitary damage, particularly in the onset of PTDI.

Abstract The integration of multicore processors and peripherals from multiple intellectual property core providers as hardware components of IoT multiprocessor systems-on-chip (SoC) represents a source of security vulnerabilities for the in-chip communication. This paper describes the concept and the practical results of a SoC security implementation that is illustrative for IoT applications. The mechanism employed in this approach uses physically unclonable functions (PUF) and symmetric cryptography in order to encrypt the transferred messages within the SoC between the microprocessor and its peripherals. The mechanism is experimentally validated at FPGA level, the paper describing also an implementation scenario for an IoT ARM based device.

This paper aim was to adapt a physiological parameter which reflects plant growth and productivity for wheat plants in relation with the applied nitrogen dose. This index can be used for various plants due to the fact that can be easy calculated and gives information about the status and requirements of diverse crops. Nitrogen is the most widely used chemical fertilizer and the adjustment of the dose is really important for farmers, who are searching for an optimum cost-benefit ratio. For this study, five experimental N doses were utilized, between 0 and 200 kg/ha. Experimental field was located within Didactic Station of BUASMV Timisoara, Romania. Nitrogen supply index was determined for healthy leaves and mathematical models were developed. The optimum N amount used for this study was 119 kg/ha and the analysis of differences reflected the modifications for doses ranging between 0 and 200 kg/ha.

The aim. Treatment of a large cystic lesion in the maxillary bone involving the nasal cavity and the sinus may be challenging. The traditional approach represented by simple enucleation could irreversibly damage the anatomical structures, therefore, we aimed to evaluate the value of decompression prior to the actual surgical procedure. Materials and methods. Our treatment strategy focused first on minimizing the lesion by decompression and then performing enucleation. Results. Follow-up cone beam computed tomography scans showed progressive bone healing and the treatment results were satisfying, with low morbidity rate and no recurrence.

The dynamic analysis of the vegetal carpet and of the vegetal cultures, presenting high interest for the management of natural balances and of agricultural systems efficiency. The fractal analysis has been used for the assessment of the morphological and temporal variability within the Triticum aestivum L. ssp. Vulgare species, in four cultivars of non-awned wheat (Avenue, Pitbull, GK Koros and Illico) and 6 awned cultivars (GK Rozi, PG 101, GK Bekes, GK 102, Antonius și Stefanus). The study has been performed in three different vegetation stages: Growth stage 3 - Stem elongation, code 33 BBCH; Growth stage 6 - Flowering, anthesis, code 69 BBCH,and Growth stage 9 - Senescence, code 99 BBCH. The fractal dimensions have been between 1.879 ± 0.067 and 1.963 ± 0.046. From the perspective of the variability induced by cultivars, two distinct clusters have resulted, GNA cluster including the non-awned cultivars (C1-C4) and a second cluster, GA including the awned cultivars (C5-C10) and subclusters depending on the similarity of cultivars. From the point of view of the temporal variability the obvious difference of Growth stage 9 (99 BBCH code), with the variation coefficient within the fractal dimenssion CV9 = 1.448 ± 0.005 (p < 0.01). The fractal dimension obtained using the digital images can be useful for the dissociation of awned / non-awneed cultivars, but only the higher stages of wheat development. It is also useful for the delimitation of wheat development stages.

In the context of Internet of Things (IoT), the cooperation and synergy between varied and disparate communicating objects is strained by trustworthiness, confidentiality and interoperability concerns. These restrictions can limit the development of IoT-based applications especially considering the emergent boost in the number of communicating objects and their growing itinerant nature in a collective service context. A new perspective arises with the paradigm of Social Internet of Things (SIoT), that relies on the implementation of semi-independent communicating objects with cooperation assessed by social relations and social feed-back. In this article, we present the development and expansion of the IoT concept towards SIoT in the context of the interactions between tourist services as communicating objects. As a proof-of-concept we propose a composition of services as virtualized social objects and the interaction between them, by taking into consideration the balance, trustworthiness, cooperation and synergy of services. Furthermore we present a solution to integrate also accessibility in SIoT services. The presented concept is presented using a demonstrator build for tourist services.

We introduce a case of a menopausal woman newly diagnosed with primary osteoporosis who has been detected with a forearm lump. A 57-year old female is confirmed with osteoporosis at DXA. The patient developed within 10 days a painful lump with local redness at dorso-medial part of left forearm. Apparently no local trauma was identified. Neither had she a general infection or any other condition in the mean time. The ultrasound identified a hypoechoic area of 4 by 1.3 by 4 cm, with positive Doppler signal. A local infection was considered and she was offered antibiotics for 10 days. However, since the patient also accused bone pain, she was re-referred for an endocrine assessment. The hormonal panel was consistent with the first assays. Also a mild inflammatory syndrome was detected based on erythrocytes sedimentation rate of 31 mm/1-hour (normal: < 25 mm/1-h) and C reactive protein of 1.4 mg/dl (normal: < 1 ng/ml). An X - Ray of the region was done and showed no anomaly. The bone whole body scintigram was negative at forearm but a fracture rib at the level of 9th left rib was identified and considered osteoporotic. A computed tomography showed the subcutaneous localisation of the lump with small calcifications and no bone involvement. Paget’s disease of the bone was excluded based on normal bone turnover markers and negative bone scintigram. The proximity with a bone disease diagnosis needs to differentiate a subcutaneous lesion from a potential bone deformity caused by a metabolic bone condition.

Human life is a continuous state of tension generated by the levels of nervous excitement. It is maintained energetically, and takes place simultaneously on a biological, psychological and social level. The purpose of this paper is to present the fundamental components necessary to simulate the human presence on a finite time horizon. The simulation mechanism of the continuity of human life on a finite time horizon, and the information read by a robot to simulate the fundamental moments and states of life are presented in detail. In addition, human life is presented as a mathematical category of categories, and as a programme that implements simultaneously biological, psychological and social events. To study these topics we use notions of category theory and algebraic topology.

COVID-19 has significantly affected public health, social life, and economies worldwide. The only effective way to combat the pandemic is through vaccines. Although the vaccines have been in use for some time, safety concerns have still been raised. The most typical adverse effects of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine are localized reactions near the injection site, followed by general physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, and fever. Additionally, some people may experience VITT (vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia), a rare side effect after vaccination. We present the case of a 60-year-old female patient that developed VITT-like symptoms with spleno-portal thrombosis and intestinal ischemia two weeks after the administration of the Ad26.COV2-S vaccine. Surgical treatment consisted of extensive bowel resection with end jejunostomy and feeding ileostomy. Two weeks after the first operation, a duodenal-ileal anastomosis was performed. The patient was discharged five weeks after the onset of the symptoms. Although some rare adverse effects are associated with the SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, the risk of hospitalization from these harmful effects is lower than the risk of hospitalization from COVID-19. Therefore, recognizing VITT is significant for ensuring the early treatment of clots and proper follow-up.

The study aimed to development a prediction model for soil erosion degree by image analysis techniques. The spectral information was obtained by image analysis in the RGB and HSB color system, and by calculus resulted rgb normalized values. Specific indices were calculated: intensity (INT), normalized difference index (NDI) and dark green color index (DGCI). The correlation analysis emphasized the existence of high levels of interdependence between specific indices and normalized color data rgb, respectively luminance (L). The regression analysis has enabled the creation of estimation models for soil erosion degree (DSE), in the form of linear equations in relation to luminance (R2=0.999, p<

Device-to-device (D2D) communication represents a promising technique to enable devices to communicate directly without the interaction of access points or base stations. The ad hoc and proximity nature of this communication introduce some very important security vulnerabilities. Key management, access control, privacy, secure routing, and transmission need dedicated signaling procedures and optimized implementation mechanisms that are appropriate for the mobile, low-energy, and low-processing power environment. This paper proposes a security mechanism for D2D communication involving the use of physically unclonable functions (PUF) for unique key generation, elliptic-curve cryptography (ECC) and Diffie-Hellman key exchange (DHKE) for key management, and Salsa20/20 as stream cyphering encryption method, suitable for confidentiality of the wireless transmissions. All these methods are implemented and tested on a software defined radio (SDR) communication platform consisting of a Zync-based system-on-chip (SoC), complemented by radio frequency (RF) daughter boards from analog devices-an integration using hardware and software co-design.

In the context of the current energy crisis, pig sludge may be a more accessible fertilizer resource for different categories of farmers and agro-ecosystems, in order to support soil fertility and agricultural production. The present study presents results regarding the influence of pig sludge on soil quality and the spatial and temporal variability of a pasture agro-ecosystem, in the area of Ciacova locality, Timiș County, Romania. The pig sludge was fermented for a period of 6 months in fermentation tanks and was applied at a rate of 80 m3 ha−1 y−1 between 2013 and 2019, on two pasture plots (P808, P816). In the study period (2013–2019), the agrochemical indices studied presented the values: pH = 5.90 ± 0.09 (P816-6-13) and pH = 6.90 ± 0.06 (P808-7-18); P = 10.20 ± 2.26 ppm (P808-4-13) and P = 69.10 ± 3.04 ppm (P808-5-19); K = 176.00 ± 7.44 ppm (P816-4-13) and K = 429.00 ± 7.33 ppm (P816-3-19); NI = 2.45% ± 0.08% (P816-6-13) and NI = 3.87% ± 0.06% (P816-6-19). The variability of the land, i.e., the pasture category, evaluated based on the NDVI index (seven NDVI classes were generated, C1 to C7) decreased under the influence of pig sludge, the values of the variation coefficients being CVNDVI = 17.5098 in 2019 compared to CVNDVI = 41.5402 in 2013 for P808 and CVNDVI = 32.0685 in 2019, compared to CVNDVI = 52.2031 in 2013 for P816. It was found that the land area decreased (2019 compared to 2013) from classes C1 to C4 NDVI (low NDVI values, NDVI < 0.5) and the area increased within classes C6 and C7 NDVI (high NDVI values, NDVI > 0.5).

This study aimed at determining the leaf area in Liquidambar styraciflua L. and at characterising the relationship between leaf area and leaf descriptors. The biological material was the species Liquidambar styraciflua L. We determined leaf area in 100 leaves (Figure 1) based on the size of median rib (L), leaf width at higher (W1) and lower (W2) lobe level, and on area constants (KA). The size of elements L, W1 and W2 were found by measuring with a precision of ±0.5 mm. Area constants in the species Liquidambar styraciflua L. were KA1 = 0.63, determined depending on leaf width at upper lobe width (W1), and KA2 = 0.81 in relation to the width W2 of the lower lobes. Between the scanned leaf area (SLA) and measured leaf area (MLA) and leaf descriptors (L, W1 and W2) we identified relations of interdependence statistically ensured: r = 0.960 to r = 0.971 for SLA; r = 0.951 to r = 0.981 for MLA W1, and r = 0.933 to r = 0.972 for MLA W2, respectively. Leaf descriptors L, W1 and W2 had a differentiated contribution in determining SLA and MLA. SLA was influenced by leaf length (L) with higher statistic safety (R2 = 0.963, p << 0.001, F = 1277.2) than leaf width at upper lobe width W1 (R2 = 0.943; p<

In the case of foliar area studies on vines, with a large number of determinations, a simple, fast, sufficiently accurate and low-cost method is very useful. The typology of leaves on the vine is complex, characterized by several descriptive parameters: median rib; secondary venations of the first and second order; angles between the median rib and the secondary venations; sinuses; length and width of the leaf. The present study aimed to evaluate models for calculating the leaf area based on descriptive parameters and KA (KA as the surface constant used to calculate the leaf area) for six vine cultivars, ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ (CS), ‘Muscat Iantarnîi’ (MI), ‘Muscat Ottonel’ (MO), ‘Chasselas’ (Ch), ‘Victoria’ (Vi) and ‘Muscat Hamburg’ (MH). The determined KA surface constants had subunit values (0.91 to 0.97), except for the cultivars ‘Muscat Iantarnîi’ and ‘Muscat Ottonel’ where the surface constant KA2 (in relation to the second-order secondary venations) had supraunitary values (1.07 and 1.08, respectively). The determination of the leaf area was possible under different conditions of statistical accuracy (R2 = 0.477, p = 0.0119, up to R2 = 0.988, p < 0.001) in relation to the variety and parametric descriptors considered. The models obtained from the regression analysis facilitated a more reliable prediction of the leaf area based on the elements on the left side of the leaf, in relation to the median rib, compared to those on the right. The accuracy of the results was checked on the basis of minimum error (ME) and confirmed by parameters R2, p and RMSE.

Rationale: Water loss by evaporation is a normal physiological process, in order to regulate plant temperature. Under conditions of thermal and water stress, water loss is accelerated compared to normal conditions, and the response of plants is variable. In extreme cases, it can lead to wilting and death of plants. It was found that the phenomenon of water loss behaved as a pattern in different plant species, given by two functions, logistics (first part of water loss) and hyperbola (second part of water loss) in relation to a moment m, at which the rate of water loss (RWL) has reached its maximum value. Method: We studied the water loss process for a series of plant samples on different plant species (Picea abies L., H. Karst; Juniperus communis L.; Pinus silvestris L.; Thuja occidentalis L.; Lamium purpureum L.; Veronica hederifolia L.), measuring the rate of weight loss (RWL) in controlled conditions. The drying of the samples was done in identical conditions (thermo-balance, 100 °C, standard temperature for drying the plant samples) with the real-time recording of the drying time simultaneously with the water loss rate (RWL) from the plant samples. The exposure time varied, depending on each species sample, and was approximately 1000 s. Results: The experimental data was recorded at intervals of every 10 s, during the entire drying period. RWL values varied from 0.024 to 0.054 g/min at the beginning of the drying process and reached maximum values after 70–100 s, having values between 0.258 g/min and 0.498 g/min. During the drying period, this indicator presented different graphic evolutions, difficult to be described with a single function. The first segment was described by a logistic function, and the second was described by a hyperbola, resulting in a model (RWLMod) which described the real phenomenon. This model and theoretical calculation were used to quantify the water loss in a time interval and, compared with empirical dates, no significant differences were observed, which indicated an increased degree of accuracy regarding the use of this model. Recommendation and novelty of work: The novelty of the work is given by the obtained model (RWLMod), which makes possible the description of RWL over the entire time interval, and ensures a good fit with the real data. It recommends the method and model in studies of plant behaviour under stress in relation to different influencing factors.

This paper focuses on the interdisciplinary research on the design of a smart gateway for managing the dynamic error code testing collected and generated by the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) from the automotive industry. The techniques used to exchange information between the ECU code errors and knowledge bases, based on data fusion methods, allowed us to consolidate and ensure data reliability, and then to optimize processed data in our distributed electronic systems, as the basic state for Industry 4.0 standards. At the same time, they offered optimized data packets when the gateway was tested as a service integrator for ECU maintenance. The embedded programming solutions offered us safe, reliable, and flexible data packet management results on both communication systems (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Provider (TCP/IP) and Controller Area Network (CAN) Bus) on the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) tested for diesel, high-pressure common rail engines. The main goal of this paper is to provide a solution for a smart, hardware–software, Industry-4.0-ready gateway applicable in the automotive industry.

The purpose of study was to assess the rate of water loss from the strings of vines in relation to internodes position on vine chords and degree of wood maturity. The biological material was represented by Burgund vine cultivar, to which were analyzed individually all internodes distributed on the chord length (internodes number IN2-19). The rate of water loss and associated parameters (maximum rate of water loss - RWLMax, total drying time - T, time to achieve RWLMax - tRWLMax) were determined from the Burgund vine cultivar, in controlled condition. Parameters studied were associated with dry matter content (refractometric method), degree of maturity of the wood, and internodes positions on chord. RWL Max had higher values in the basal internodes (IN2; RWL Max = 0.252±0.005 g/min) and lower in the apical internodes (IN17-19; RWLMax = 0.202±0.011 g/min). RWLMax distributions values, according to the position of internodes on chord was described by a third degree polynomial function, statistical safety (R2 = 0.949, p

This paper reports on the ignition and flame propagation characteristics of aluminum/copper oxide (Al/CuO) nanothermite at different packing density, manufactured from 40 nm commercial Al and CuO nanopowders. A 3.5 W continuous wave laser was used to ignite the samples in argon at atmospheric pressure, and a high speed camera captured the flame propagation. The high speed images revealed that the fast laser heating creates significant material ablation, followed by heat transfer along the heated surface. The bulk ignition occurs near the edge of the top surface, followed by the self-sustained burning. Lightly pressed powders (90% porosity) ignited in ~0.1 ms and the burning front propagated at around 200 m/s, while the dense pellets (40–60% porosity) ignited in ~1 ms and the burning front propagated at around 10 m/s. These results indicate that the reaction mechanism changes from mass convection to heat diffusion with increasing the packing density. The ignition and burn speeds of these Al/CuO nanothermites at different equivalence ratios (ERs), along with SEM images of pre- and post-combustion, illustrate that the homogeneity of the mixture is a critical parameter for optimizing the performance. The Al rich mixtures show significantly lower ignition delays and higher burn speeds.

Visibility is a critical factor for transportation, even if we refer to air, water, or ground transportation. The biggest trend in the automotive industry is autonomous driving, the number of autonomous vehicles will increase exponentially, prompting changes in the industry and user segment. Unfortunately, these vehicles still have some drawbacks and one, always in attention and topical, will be treated in this paper—visibility distance issue in bad weather conditions, particularly in fog. The way and the speed with which vehicles will determine objects, obstacles, pedestrians, or traffic signs, especially in bad visibility, will determine how the vehicle will behave. In this paper, a new experimental set up is featured, for analyzing the effect of the fog when the laser and LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) radiation are used in visibility distance estimation on public roads. While using our experimental set up, in the laboratory, the information offered by these measurement systems (laser and LIDAR) are evaluated and compared with results offered by human observers in the same fog conditions. The goal is to validate and unitarily apply the results regarding visibility distance, based on information arrives from different systems that are able to estimate this parameter (in foggy weather conditions). Finally, will be notifying the drivers in case of unexpected situations. It is a combination of stationary and of moving systems. The stationary system will be installed on highways or express roads in areas prone to fog, while the moving systems are, or can be, directly installed on the vehicles (autonomous but also non-autonomous).

The aim of this study was to identify the most appropriate options for maintenance of soil in vineyards located on flat land or mild slopes, and soils with a medium or high fertility. Tillage in the vineyard is carried out to preserve the soil loosening, for maintaining the humus and nutrients in soil, for activation of chemical and biological processes and last but not the least to maintain weed control. Choosing the most suitable system of vineyards floor management (middle rows, undervine, around vineyard) is a major problem which depends on preserving or enhancing soil fertility, improvement or worsening the soil physical, chemical and biological characteristics, ensuring water from soil and weed control. The experimental variants consisted of different practices of soil tillage, as follows: V1-bare row middles and grass strips/bare soil under vine; V2-bare soil/herbicides treatment under vine; V3-bare row middles/bare soil under vine; V4-bare row middles with ripped soil/bare soil under vine; V5- raw middles and grass strips/manual hoeing under vine; V6-bare row middles/rotary hoe under vine; V7-raw middles and grass strips/herbicides treatment under vine. Observations were made on ‘Burgund’ cultivar regarding buds viability, grape production, yield quality and sugar content. The highest yield per hectare was achieved in the soil with bare raw middles prepared with rotary hoe under vine (V6). On soils with moisture deficiency and a high content of clay, vineyards floor management is recommended to be maintained both under vine and on raw middles, as well with the adjustable rotary tiller.

A decline in mitochondrial respiration represents the root cause of a large number of inborn errors of metabolism. It is also associated with common age-associated diseases and the aging process. To gain insight into the systemic, biochemical consequences of respiratory chain dysfunction, we performed a case-control, prospective metabolic profiling study in a genetically homogenous cohort of patients with Leigh syndrome French Canadian variant, a mitochondrial respiratory chain disease due to loss-of-function mutations in LRPPRC. We discovered 45 plasma and urinary analytes discriminating patients from controls, including classic markers of mitochondrial metabolic dysfunction (lactate and acylcarnitines), as well as unexpected markers of cardiometabolic risk (insulin and adiponectin), amino acid catabolism linked to NADH status (α-hydroxybutyrate), and NAD+ biosynthesis (kynurenine and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid). Our study identifies systemic, metabolic pathway derangements that can lie downstream of primary mitochondrial lesions, with implications for understanding how the organelle contributes to rare and common diseases.

Remote sensing is of great interest for the study and characterization of the vegetation and of the agricultural crops, in order to monitor them and to develop predictable patterns regarding the evolution of the crops and also for the purpose of the decision making process in real time. The main purpose of this research was the study of the sunflower crops dynamics based on spectral information obtained from satellite images. Vegetation dynamics was differently expressed by the indexes NDVI, NDBR and NDMI determined based on spectral information. NDVI has registered an ascending slope since the beginning of the vegetation period until the flowering (65 BBCH code) when the maximum value was recorded (NDVIGS6 = 0.4074). Later the distribution of this indicator recorded a descending slope until the physiological maturity.

The present paper proposes a bifactorial model obtained by a generalization of the unifactorial Mitscherlich model. After analysing the graphic representation of the experimental data and the theoretical curves, one can conclude that they present good concordance. Treatments with nitrogen fertilizers within the limits of 0 – 200 kg a.i. ha-1 determined different optimum and maximum values for each of the four fertilization variants with phosphorus and potassium (optimum value 97 kg ha-1 N on

Nowadays, alongside metallic biomaterials, there is increasing interest in using degradable metals in an appreciable number of medical applications. There are new kinds of metallic biomaterials for medical applications and many new findings have been reported over the past few years. Iron-based materials are a solution for biodegradable applications based on their mechanical and chemical properties. In order to control the corrosion rate of the Fe10Mn6Si alloy, we proposed the use of two additional elements, Ca and Mg, as corrosion promoters. The new material was obtained in an air-controlled atmosphere furnace after five melting operations. The material was in vitro analyzed from a corrosion resistance point of view. The experiments were realized by immersion (7, 14, and 30 days) in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution at 37 °C and a constant pH, and by electrochemical tests (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), linear polarization (LP), cyclic polarization (CP)). Material surfaces before and after corrosion tests were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. A discussion on the degradation rate of the material was realized from a comparison of the results. The results presented good composition homogeneity after the re-melting stages, with low percentages of Ca and Mg in the material, but with an adequate spread in the alloy.

An increasing number of genes required for mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics, or function have been found to be mutated in metabolic disorders and neurological diseases such as Leigh Syndrome. In a forward genetic screen to identify genes required for neuronal function and survival in Drosophila photoreceptor neurons, we have identified mutations in the mitochondrial methionyl-tRNA synthetase, Aats-met, the homologue of human MARS2. The fly mutants exhibit age-dependent degeneration of photoreceptors, shortened lifespan, and reduced cell proliferation in epithelial tissues. We further observed that these mutants display defects in oxidative phosphorylation, increased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), and an upregulated mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response. With the aid of this knowledge, we identified MARS2 to be mutated in Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia with Leukoencephalopathy (ARSAL) patients. We uncovered complex rearrangements in the MARS2 gene in all ARSAL patients. Analysis of patient cells revealed decreased levels of MARS2 protein and a reduced rate of mitochondrial protein synthesis. Patient cells also exhibited reduced Complex I activity, increased ROS, and a slower cell proliferation rate, similar to Drosophila Aats-met mutants.

Little is known about the Pleistocene climatic context of northern Australia at the time of early human settlement. Here we generate a palaeoprecipitation proxy using stable carbon isotope analysis of modern and archaeological pandanus nutshell from Madjedbebe, Australia's oldest known archaeological site. We document fluctuations in precipitation over the last 65,000 years and identify periods of lower precipitation during the penultimate and last glacial stages, Marine Isotope Stages 4 and 2. However, the lowest effective annual precipitation is recorded at the present time. Periods of lower precipitation, including the earliest phase of occupation, correspond with peaks in exotic stone raw materials and artefact discard at the site. This pattern is interpreted as suggesting increased group mobility and intensified use of the region during drier periods.

The "Wet Tropics" of Australia host a unique variety of plant lineages that trace their origins to the super-continent of Gondwanaland. While these "ancient" evolutionary records are rightly emphasized in current management of the region, multidisciplinary research and lobbying by Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples have also demonstrated the significance of the cultural heritage of the "Wet Tropics." Here, we evaluate the existing archeological, paleoenvironmental, and historical evidence to demonstrate the diverse ways in which these forests are globally significant, not only for their ecological heritage but also for their preservation of traces of millennia of anthropogenic activities, including active burning and food tree manipulation. We argue that detailed paleoecological, ethnobotanical, and archeological studies, working within the framework of growing national and world heritage initiatives and active application of traditional knowledge, offer the best opportunities for sustainable management of these unique environments in the face of increasingly catastrophic climate change and bushfires., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests, financial or otherwise., (© 2021 The Author(s).)

Background: Vegetatively propagated crops are globally significant in terms of current agricultural production, as well as for understanding the long-term history of early agriculture and plant domestication. Today, significant field crops include sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), potato (Solanum tuberosum), manioc (Manihot esculenta), bananas and plantains (Musa cvs), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), yams (Dioscorea spp.) and taro (Colocasia esculenta). In comparison with sexually reproduced crops, especially cereals and legumes, the domestication syndrome in vegetatively propagated field crops is poorly defined., Aims and Scope: Here, a range of phenotypic traits potentially comprising a syndrome associated with early domestication of vegetatively propagated field crops is proposed, including: mode of reproduction, yield of edible portion, ease of harvesting, defensive adaptations, timing of production and plant architecture. The archaeobotanical visibility of these syndrome traits is considered with a view to the reconstruction of the geographical and historical pathways of domestication for vegetatively propagated field crops in the past., Conclusions: Although convergent phenotypic traits are identified, none of them are ubiquitous and some are divergent. In contrast to cereals and legumes, several traits seem to represent varying degrees of plastic response to growth environment and practices of cultivation, as opposed to solely morphogenetic 'fixation'., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Annals of Botany Company. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

There is little evidence for the role of plant foods in the dispersal of early modern humans into new habitats globally. Researchers have hypothesised that early movements of human populations through Island Southeast Asia and into Sahul were driven by the lure of high-calorie, low-handling-cost foods, and that the use of plant foods requiring processing was not common in Sahul until the Holocene. Here we present the analysis of charred plant food remains from Madjedbebe rockshelter in northern Australia, dated to between 65 kya and 53 kya. We demonstrate that Australia's earliest known human population exploited a range of plant foods, including those requiring processing. Our finds predate existing evidence for such subsistence practices in Sahul by at least 23ky. These results suggest that dietary breadth underpinned the success of early modern human populations in this region, with the expenditure of labour on the processing of plants guaranteeing reliable access to nutrients in new environments.

The time of arrival of people in Australia is an unresolved question. It is relevant to debates about when modern humans first dispersed out of Africa and when their descendants incorporated genetic material from Neanderthals, Denisovans and possibly other hominins. Humans have also been implicated in the extinction of Australia's megafauna. Here we report the results of new excavations conducted at Madjedbebe, a rock shelter in northern Australia. Artefacts in primary depositional context are concentrated in three dense bands, with the stratigraphic integrity of the deposit demonstrated by artefact refits and by optical dating and other analyses of the sediments. Human occupation began around 65,000 years ago, with a distinctive stone tool assemblage including grinding stones, ground ochres, reflective additives and ground-edge hatchet heads. This evidence sets a new minimum age for the arrival of humans in Australia, the dispersal of modern humans out of Africa, and the subsequent interactions of modern humans with Neanderthals and Denisovans.

Published ages of >50 ka for occupation at Madjedbebe (Malakunanja II) in Australia's north have kept the site prominent in discussions about the colonisation of Sahul. The site also contains one of the largest stone artefact assemblages in Sahul for this early period. However, the stone artefacts and other important archaeological components of the site have never been described in detail, leading to persistent doubts about its stratigraphic integrity. We report on our analysis of the stone artefacts and faunal and other materials recovered during the 1989 excavations, as well as the stratigraphy and depositional history recorded by the original excavators. We demonstrate that the technology and raw materials of the early assemblage are distinctive from those in the overlying layers. Silcrete and quartzite artefacts are common in the early assemblage, which also includes edge-ground axe fragments and ground haematite. The lower flaked stone assemblage is distinctive, comprising a mix of long convergent flakes, some radial flakes with faceted platforms, and many small thin silcrete flakes that we interpret as thinning flakes. Residue and use-wear analysis indicate occasional grinding of haematite and woodworking, as well as frequent abrading of platform edges on thinning flakes. We conclude that previous claims of extensive displacement of artefacts and post-depositional disturbance may have been overstated. The stone artefacts and stratigraphic details support previous claims for human occupation 50-60 ka and show that human occupation during this time differed from later periods. We discuss the implications of these new data for understanding the first human colonisation of Sahul., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)