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Abstract Background Stem cell-derived therapies hold the potential for treatment of regenerative clinical indications. Static culture has a limited ability to scale up thus restricting its use. Suspension culturing can be used to produce target cells in large quantities, but also presents challenges related to stress and aggregation stability. Methods Utilizing a design of experiments (DoE) approach in vertical wheel bioreactors, we evaluated media additives that have versatile properties. The additives evaluated are Heparin sodium salt (HS), polyethylene glycol (PEG), poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA), Pluronic F68 and dextran sulfate (DS). Multiple response variables were chosen to assess cell growth, pluripotency maintenance and aggregate stability in response to the additive inputs, and mathematical models were generated and tuned for maximal predictive power. Results Expansion of iPSCs using 100 ml vertical wheel bioreactor assay for 4 days on 19 different media combinations resulted in models that can optimize pluripotency, stability, and expansion. The expansion optimization resulted in the combination of PA, PVA and PEG with E8. This mixture resulted in an expansion doubling time that was 40% shorter than that of E8 alone. Pluripotency optimizer highlighted the importance of adding 1% PEG to the E8 medium. Aggregate stability optimization that minimizes aggregate fusion in 3D culture indicated that the interaction of both Heparin and PEG can limit aggregation as well as increase the maintenance capacity and expansion of hiPSCs, suggesting that controlling fusion is a critical parameter for expansion and maintenance. Validation of optimized solution on two cell lines in bioreactors with decreased speed of 40 RPM, showed consistency and prolonged control over aggregates that have high frequency of pluripotency markers of OCT4 and SOX2 (> 90%). A doubling time of around 1–1.4 days was maintained after passaging as clumps in the optimized medium. Controlling aggregate fusion allowed for a decrease in bioreactor speed and therefore shear stress exerted on the cells in a large-scale expansion. Conclusion This study resulted in a control of aggregate size within suspension cultures, while informing about concomitant state control of the iPSC state. Wider application of this approach can address media optimization complexity and bioreactor scale-up challenges.

Microorganisms inhabiting gypsum have been observed in environments that differ greatly in water availability. Gypsum colonized by microorganisms, including cyanobacteria, eukaryotic algae, and diverse heterotrophic communities, occurs in hot, arid or even hyperarid environments, in cold environments of the Antarctic and Arctic zones, and in saline and hypersaline lakes and ponds where gypsum precipitates. Fossilized microbial remnants preserved in gypsum were also reported. Gypsum protects the endolithic microbial communities against excessive insolation and ultraviolet radiation, while allowing photosynthetically active radiation to penetrate through the mineral substrate. We here review the worldwide occurrences of microbially colonized gypsum and the specific properties of gypsum related to its function as a substrate and habitat for microbial life on Earth and possibly beyond. Methods for detecting and characterizing endolithic communities and their biomarkers in gypsum are discussed, including microscopic, spectroscopic, chemical, and molecular biological techniques. The modes of adaptation of different microorganisms to life within gypsum crystals under different environmental conditions are described. Finally, we discuss gypsum deposits as possible targets for the search for microbial life or its remnants beyond Earth, especially on Mars, where sulfate-rich deposits occur, and propose strategies to detect them during space exploration missions.

SDF-1/CXCL12 is a unique chemotactic factor with multiple functions on various types of precursor cells, all carrying the cognate receptor CXCR4. Whereas individual biological functions of SDF-1/CXCL12 have been well documented, practical applications in medicine are insufficiently studied. This is explained by the complex multifunctional biology of SDF-1 with systemic and local effects, critical dependence of SDF-1 activity on aminoterminal proteolytic processing and limited knowledge of applicable modulators of its activity. We here present new insights into modulation of SDF-1 activity in vitro and in vivo by a macromolecular compound, chlorite-oxidized oxyamylose (COAM). COAM prevented the proteolytic inactivation of SDF-1 by two inflammation-associated proteases: matrix metalloproteinase-9/MMP-9 and dipeptidylpeptidase IV/DPPIV/CD26. The inhibition of proteolytic inactivation was functionally measured by receptor-mediated effects, including intracellular calcium mobilization, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, receptor internalization and chemotaxis of CXCR4-positive cells. Protection of SDF-1/CXCL12 against proteolysis was dependent on electrostatic COAM-SDF-1 interactions. By in vivo experiments in mice, we showed that the combination of COAM with SDF-1 delivered through physiological fibrin hydrogel had beneficial effect for the healing of skin wounds. Collectively, we show that COAM protects SDF-1 from proteolytic inactivation, maintaining SDF-1 biological activities. Thus, protection from proteolysis by COAM represents a therapeutic strategy to prolong SDF-1 bioavailability for wound healing applications.

Abstract Background Physiological dysregulation/allostatic load and the geriatric syndrome frailty increase with age. As a neurophysiological response system, allostasis supports survival by limiting stressor-related damage. Frailty reflects decreased strength, endurance, and physical abilities secondary to losses of muscle and bone with age. One suggestion, based on large cohort studies of person’s ages 70 + years, is that frailty contributes to allostatic load at older ages. However, small community-based research has not confirmed this specific association. Methods To further explore possible associations between allostatic load and frailty, we enrolled 211 residents of Greater Poland aged 55–91 years living in a small village (Nekla, N = 104) and an urban center and capital of Greater Poland (Poznan, N = 107). For each, we recorded age, self-reported sex, and residence and estimated a 10-biomarker allostatic load score (ALS) and an 8-biomarker frailty index. We anticipated the following: higher ALS and frailty among men and rural residents; for frailty but not ALS to be higher at older ages; significant associations of ALS with sex and place of residence, but not with age or frailty. The significance of observed associations was evaluated by t-tests and multivariate regression. Results ALS did not vary significantly between men and women nor between Nekla and Poznan residents overall. However, women showed significantly higher frailty than men. Nekla men showed significantly higher ALS but not frailty, while Nekla women showed nonsignificantly higher ALS and lower frailty than Poznan. In multivariate analyses, neither age, nor sex, nor residence was associated with ALS. Conversely, age, sex, and residence, but not ALS, are associated significantly with frailty. In Nekla, both age and sex, but in Poznan only age, are associated with ALS. Among women, both age and residence, but among men, neither associated with ALS. In no case did ALS associate significantly with frailty. Conclusion In this sample, lifestyle factors associated with residence, age, and sex influence stress-related physiology, less so in women, while ALS and frailty do not covary, suggesting their underlying promoters are distinct. Similar complex associations of physiological dysregulation with frailty, age, sex, and residence likely exist within many local settings. Knowledge of this variation likely will aid in supporting health and healthcare services among seniors.

ABSTRACTThe geological map of the Klenov Pluton (Moldanubian Batholith), and its 3D visualization, brings the new findings in the context of granite emplacement within late-Variscan settings. The Klenov Pluton has a peraluminous composition resulting from partial melting of metasedimentary sources and subsequent differentiation. The new ages 327.14 ± 0.21 Ma and 327.80 ± 0.37 Ma, reflect the narrow time-span of magma emplacement and cooling. The 327 Ma Klenov Pluton was emplaced syntectonically as a ‘sheet-like’ granite intrusion at depth ca. 10 kilometers during the later stages of the Pelhřimov Core Complex exhumation (at ca. 329 to 327 Ma) associated with ∼N–S oriented compression. Gravity modelling suggests that the Klenov Pluton has an asymmetric shape where its western flank is parallel to the ∼NW moderately dipping Pelhřimov Core Complex. The eastern margin of the Pluton is shallower and has been later modified by ∼SE-side-up normal faulting (Lodhéřov Fault Zone).

This paper compares the analytical approach and optimization algorithm for designing a two-bilinear-section-based two-port transfer function hinged on a numerical sweep with the intention of implementing fractional-order (FO) systems in many sensing areas. The study compares analytical and algorithm-based design approaches and tests their effectiveness in designing a two-port system that accommodates phase shifts within the 10° to 80° range and with various phase ripple limits. The impact of phase changes on usable bandwidth (yield maximization) is also explored. The proposed algorithm represents the most optimal approach and calculates zeros/poles frequencies to precisely keep the required mean phase value and phase ripple value for the defined center frequency. Experimental results are provided, utilizing two bilinear sections featuring the current feedback amplifier. Moreover, the implementation of the novel two-port Cole model as an application example of the proposed design is presented and evaluated. The approaches presented are useful in sensing, modeling, and instrumentation.

To meet the extremely stringent but diverse requirements of Beyond Fifth-Generation (B5G) networks, traffic-aware adaptive utilization of network resources is becoming essential. To cope with that, a detailed traffic data analysis enables opportunities for mobile network operators to improve the Quality of Service (QoS) in the next-generation mobile communication systems. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the real world data collected from an operator’s 4G+ and 5G infrastructure during a seven-month campaign. Efficient Machine Learning (ML) based network traffic predictions are presented together with a statistical model to develop optimal resource allocation strategies by using the data gathered during the pandemic, an era when the data volume, as well as the bandwidth requirements and the end users’ expectations, were significantly elevated in terms of QoS, given the huge shift to the online world. Data analysis confirmed the assumption that there are traffic changes during the day and the whole week, which helped us to find new research directions regarding resource allocation optimization of next-generation mobile networks. Furthermore, we introduce the Predictive Energy Saver for Baseband Units (PESBiU) algorithm, which utilizes traffic prediction and power consumption analysis to manage the power states (sleep or active) of BBUs in a network. The PESBiU algorithm utilizes the results from ML predictions to effectively balance energy efficiency and network performance, demonstrating its potential for practical deployment in future mobile communication networks by transitioning BBUs to sleep mode during low-traffic periods, thereby achieving significant power savings.

Abstract Genetic screens have been used extensively to probe interactions between nuclear genes and their impact on phenotypes. Probing interactions between mitochondrial genes and their phenotypic outcome, however, has not been possible due to a lack of tools to map the responsible polymorphisms. Here, using a toolkit we previously established in Drosophila, we isolate over 300 recombinant mitochondrial genomes and map a naturally occurring polymorphism at the cytochrome c oxidase III residue 109 (CoIII109) that fully rescues the lethality and other defects associated with a point mutation in cytochrome c oxidase I (CoIT300I). Through lipidomics profiling, biochemical assays and phenotypic analyses, we show that the CoIII109 polymorphism modulates cardiolipin binding to prevent complex IV instability caused by the CoIT300I mutation. This study demonstrates the feasibility of genetic interaction screens in animal mitochondrial DNA. It unwraps the complex intra-genomic interplays underlying disorders linked to mitochondrial DNA and how they influence disease expression.

Lung cancer is a paradigm for a genetically driven tumor. A variety of drugs were developed targeting specific biomarkers requiring testing for tumor genetic alterations in relevant biomarkers. Different next-generation sequencing technologies are available for library generation: 1) anchored multiplex-, 2) amplicon based- and 3) hybrid capture-based-PCR. Anchored multiplex PCR-based sequencing was investigated for routine molecular testing within the national Network Genomic Medicine Lung Cancer (nNGM). Four centers applied the anchored multiplex ArcherDX-Variantplex nNGMv2 panel to re-analyze samples pre-tested during routine diagnostics. Data analyses were performed by each center and compiled centrally according to study design. Pre-defined standards were utilized, and panel sensitivity was determined by dilution experiments. nNGMv2 panel sequencing was successful in 98.9% of the samples (N = 90). With default filter settings, all but two potential MET exon 14 skipping variants were identified at similar allele frequencies. Both MET variants were found with an adapted calling filter. Three additional variants (KEAP1, STK11, TP53) were called that were not identified in pre-testing analyses. Only total DNA amount but not a qPCR-based DNA quality score correlated with average coverage. Analysis was successful with a DNA input as low as 6.25 ng. Anchored multiplex PCR-based sequencing (nNGMv2) and a sophisticated user-friendly Archer-Analysis pipeline is a robust and specific technology to detect tumor genetic mutations for precision medicine of lung cancer patients.

Abstract We explore, experimentally and theoretically, the emergence of coherent coupled oscillations and synchronization between a pair of non-Hermitian, stochastic, opto-mechanical oscillators, levitated in vacuum. Each oscillator consists of a polystyrene microsphere trapped in a circularly polarized, counter-propagating Gaussian laser beam. Non-conservative, azimuthal forces, deriving from inhomogeneous optical spin, push the micro-particles out of thermodynamic equilibrium. For modest optical powers each particle shows a tendency towards orbital circulation. Initially, their stochastic motion is weakly correlated. As the power is increased, the tendency towards orbital circulation strengthens and the motion of the particles becomes highly correlated. Eventually, centripetal forces overcome optical gradient forces and the oscillators undergo a collective Hopf bifurcation. For laser powers exceeding this threshold, a pair of limit cycles appear, which synchronize due to weak optical and hydrodynamic interactions. In principle, arrays of such Non-Hermitian elements can be arranged, paving the way for opto-mechanical topological materials or, possibly, classical time crystals. In addition, the preparation of synchronized states in levitated optomechanics could lead to new and robust sensors or alternative routes to the entanglement of macroscopic objects.

The presented experimental program focuses on the design of high-performance dry concrete mixtures, which could find application in advanced manufacturing technologies, for example, additive solutions. The combination of high-performance concrete (HPC) with advanced or additive technologies provides new possibilities for constructing architecturally attractive buildings with high material requirements. The purpose of this study was to develop a dry mixture made from high-performance concrete that could be distributed directly in advanced or additive technologies of solutions in pre-prepared condition with all input materials (except for water) in order to reduce both financial and labor costs. This research specifically aimed to improve the basic strength characteristics—including mechanical (assessed using compressive strength, tensile splitting strength, and flexural strength tests) and durability properties (assessed using tests of resistance to frost, water, and defrosting chemicals)—of hardened mixtures, with partial insight into the rheology of fresh mixtures (consistency as assessed using the slump-flow test). Additionally, the load-bearing capacity of the selected mixtures in the form of specimens with concrete reinforcement was tested using a three-point bending test. A reference mixture with two liquid plasticizers—the first based on polycarboxylate and polyphosphonate and the second based on polyether carboxylate—was modified using a powdered plasticizer based on the polymerization product Glycol to create a dry mixture; the reference mixture was compared with the developed mixtures with respect to the above-mentioned properties. In general, the results show that the replacement of the aforementioned liquid plasticizers by a powdered plasticizer based on the polymerization product Glycol in the given mixtures is effective up to 5% (of the cement content) with regard to the mechanical and durability properties. The presented work provides an overview of the compared characteristics, which will serve as a basis for future research into the development of additive manufacturing technologies in the conditions of the Czech Republic while respecting the principles of sustainable construction.

Arguably the most important element in the sustainability of concrete development is the discovery of an optimal sustainable binder and substitution for the increasingly depleted reserves of natural aggregates. Considerable interest has been shown in alkali-activated materials, which possess good characteristics and could be considered environmentally friendly because of their use of secondary materials in production. The aim of this study was the determination of the mechanical properties of three different mixtures based on the same locally accessible raw materials. The reference mixture contained Portland cement, the second mix contained a finely ground granulated blast furnace slag instead of cement, and the third mixture contained a portion of light artificial aggregate. The experiments focused on the testing and mutual comparison of the processability of the fresh mixture and mechanical characteristics (like compressive and flexural strength, as well as resistance to high temperatures and surface layer tear strength tests). Reinforced concrete beams without shear reinforcement and with three levels of reinforcement were also tested with a three-point bend test. The results show that, overall, the mechanical properties of all the tested mixtures were similar, but each had its own disadvantages. For example, the blast furnace slag-based mixture had a more vulnerable surface layer or a debatable loss of bulk density in the light aggregate mix at the expense of the mechanical properties. One of the main results of the research is that it was possible to technologically produce beams from the alkali-activated concrete (AAC) mixture. Then, the performed beam experiments verified the mechanism of damage, collapse, and load capacity. The obtained results are essential because they present the use of AAC not only in laboratory conditions but also for building elements. In beams without shear reinforcement, the typical tensile cracks caused by bending and shear cracks appeared under loading, where their character was affected depending on the degree of beam reinforcement and loading.

Measuring postural control in an upright standing position is the standard method. However, this diagnostic method has floor or ceiling effects and its implementation is only possible to a limited extent. Assessing postural control directly on the trunk in a sitting position and consideration of the results in the spectrum in conjunction with an AI-supported evaluation could represent an alternative diagnostic method quantifying neuromuscular control. In a prospective cross-sectional study, 188 subjects aged between 18 and 60 years were recruited and divided into two groups: “LowBackPain” vs. “Healthy”. Subsequently, measurements of postural control in a seated position were carried out for 60 s using a modified balance board. A spectrum per trail was calculated using the measured CoP tracks in the range from 0.01 to 10 Hz. Various algorithms for data classification and prediction of these classes were tested for the parameter combination with the highest proven static influence on the parameter pain. The best results were found in a frequency spectrum of 0.001 Hz and greater than 1 Hz. After transforming the track from the time domain to the image domain for representation as power density, the influence of pain was highly significant (effect size 0.9). The link between pain and gender (p = 0.015) and pain and height (p = 0.012) also demonstrated significant results. The assessment of postural control in a seated position allows differentiation between “LowBackPain” and “Healthy” subjects. Using the AI algorithm of neural networks, the data set can be correctly differentiated into “LowBackPain” and “Healthy” with a probability of 81%.

Abstract Background A vegetarian diet is a popular alternative to the casual diet - it is considered healthy, and was proven to positively affect cardiovascular health. The Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progression is a major issue in the healthcare system, and constitutes a leading cause of death for 1.5% of the global population. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the potential impact of a vegetarian diet on kidney function in CKD patients. Method Our systematic review focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which compared the effects of a vegetarian diet (experimental) and a standard omnivore diet (comparator) in terms of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in CKD patients. Inclusion criteria were based on PICO elements, with two researchers involved in browsing the Cochrane and Pubmed search engines. The investigation was performed using the PRISMA 2020 Checklist and PRISMA 2020 flow diagram. The search terms included: ‘vegetarian diet’ AND ‘nephropathy’, ‘eGFR’, ‘albuminuria’, ‘chronic kidney disease’. Bias assessment was performed using RoB 2 tool to determine the validity of the data collected from studies. Results Four RCTs with a total of 346 participants were included in the presented systematic review. Two largest RCTs reported an increase in eGFR following a change to a vegetarian diet (p = 0.01 and p = 0.001). Another two found no significant differences between the experimental and control groups, also these trials were associated with a high risk of bias in terms of missing data outcome and the randomization process. Conclusions The findings collected in this systematic review suggest that a vegetarian diet improves renal filtration function in CKD patients. Therefore, it seems essential to conduct further research involving the impact of the diet on the progression of CKD.

The rare European species Atrichobrunettia (Mirousiella) graeca Ježek et Goutner, 1993 and the invasive species Clogmia albipunctata (Williston, 1893) (both Diptera: Psychodidae) are newly recorded from “Dunele Marine de la Agigea” Nature Reserve from Romania. The updated checklist of non-Phlebotomine species of the family Psychodidae for Romania with 53 species is given.

Objectives To estimate the potential referral rate and cost impact at different cut-off points of a recently developed sepsis prediction model for general practitioners (GPs).Design Prospective observational study with decision tree modelling.Setting Four out-of-hours GP services in the Netherlands.Participants 357 acutely ill adult patients assessed during home visits.Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary outcome is the cost per patient from a healthcare perspective in four scenarios based on different cut-off points for referral of the sepsis prediction model. Second, the number of hospital referrals for the different scenarios is estimated. The potential impact of referral of patients with sepsis on mortality and hospital admission was estimated by an expert panel. Using these study data, a decision tree with a time horizon of 1 month was built to estimate the referral rate and cost impact in case the model would be implemented.Results Referral rates at a low cut-off (score 2 or 3 on a scale from 0 to 6) of the prediction model were higher than observed for patients with sepsis (99% and 91%, respectively, compared with 88% observed). However, referral was also substantially higher for patients who did not need hospital assessment. As a consequence, cost-savings due to referral of patients with sepsis were offset by increased costs due to unnecessary referral for all cut-offs of the prediction model.Conclusions Guidance for referral of adult patients with suspected sepsis in the primary care setting using any cut-off point of the sepsis prediction model is not likely to save costs. The model should only be incorporated in sepsis guidelines for GPs if improvement of care can be demonstrated in an implementation study.Trial registration number Dutch Trial Register (NTR 7026).

This paper attempts to fill the knowledge gaps in biodiversity of non-biting moth flies in the Caucasus (especially in Abkhazia) and create a suitable basis for subsequent (not only) ecological studies. In total, records of 65 Psychodidae (Sycoracinae - one sp., Psychodinae 64 spp., altogether 33 genera) species/subspecies are presented based on specimens collected mainly in Abkhazia, with some additional data from Armenia, Georgia, and Russia (12 new records). The Psychodidae fauna of Abkhazia now comprises 57 species, 31 of which are newly listed here. The Caucasus region (including the territory of Abkhazia presented here) should be considered the most biologically rich and most endangered region in the world, with an exceptional richness of endemic and endangered species also from the point of view of psychodids biodiversity. Sixteen extremely rare species in this family (probably Caucasus or highland endemics) which need to be given increased attention, whether from the point of view of island ecology or biodiversity protection, have been herein confirmed.

The paper proposes a new soil evaluation system using the principle of the Saaty method. The Saaty method has been modified and named Soil Assessment System (SAS). Significance weights are assigned to individual soil characteristics (indicators). This provides a more detailed differentiation of the significance of the indicator on soil quality and a more accurate assessment, especially in marginal cases where the assessment by the methods used so far has not been fully conclusive. In addition to physico-chemical properties, other criteria are taken into account to assess not only productional but also non-productional functions. The possibility of using indicators referring to a broader context (e.g., soil sealing value) is also important, thus enabling a comprehensive assessment of the quality of the land. This results in points for individual sampling locations. Soils are categorized according to the number of points and results are shown on maps.

This paper presents the results of research conducted in the field of the technology of surface hardening of castings from unalloyed and low-alloy nodular cast iron using the laser remelting method. The range of studies included macro- and microhardness measurements using Rockwell and Vickers methods as well as metallographic microscopic examinations using a scanning electron microscope. Moreover, abrasive wear resistance tests were performed using the pin-on-disk method in the friction pair of nodular cast iron—SiC abrasive paper and the reciprocating method in the friction pair of nodular cast iron—unalloyed steel. Analysis of the test results shows that the casting surface layer remelting by laser for unalloyed nodular cast iron results in a greater improvement in its resistance to abrasive wear in the metal–mineral system, as compared to low-alloy cast iron. Additionally, carrying out the laser hardening treatment of the surface layer made of the tested grades of nodular cast iron is justified only if the tribological system of the cooperating working parts and allowable dimensional changes during their operation are known.

Abstract Extensive transformation of natural land cover into urbanized areas enhances accumulation of phenotypic differences between animals from urban and nonurban populations, but there is little information on whether these changes, especially in terms of animal behaviour and circadian rhythm, have a genetic basis. The aim of this study was to investigate genetic background of behavioural differences between four pairs of urban and nonurban populations of a common waterbird, the Eurasian coot Fulica atra. For this purpose, we quantified polymorphisms in personality‐related candidate genes, previously reported to be associated with avian circadian rhythms and behavioural traits that may be crucial for urban life. We found general associations between landscape urbanization level and polymorphisms in 3′UTR region of CREB1 gene encoding transcriptional factor, which participates in development of cognitive functions and regulation of circadian rhythm. We also found significant differentiation between urban and nonurban populations in the intronic region of CKIɛ gene responsible for regulation of circadian clock. Although we lacked evidence for linkage of this intronic variation with coding polymorphisms, genetic differentiation between urban populations was significantly stronger at CKIɛ intron compared with neutral microsatellite markers, suggesting possible local adaptations of CKIɛ expression regulation to specific urban sites. Our results indicate that behavioural differentiation between urban and nonurban coot populations may be the effect of habitat‐specific selective pressure resulting in genetic adaptations to urban environment and supporting the microevolutionary scenario. These adaptations, however, prevailed in non‐coding regulatory rather than coding gene regions and showed either general or local patterns, revealing high complexity of associations between behaviour and landscape urbanization in birds.

Abstract Accurate sepsis diagnosis is paramount for treatment decisions, especially at the emergency department (ED). To improve diagnosis, clinical decision support (CDS) tools are being developed with machine learning (ML) algorithms, using a wide range of variable groups. ML models can find patterns in Electronic Health Record (EHR) data that are unseen by the human eye. A prerequisite for a good model is the use of high-quality labels. Sepsis gold-standard labels are hard to define due to a lack of reliable diagnostic tools for sepsis at the ED. Therefore, standard clinical tools, such as clinical prediction scores (e.g. modified early warning score and quick sequential organ failure assessment), and claims-based methods (e.g. ICD-10) are used to generate suboptimal labels. As a consequence, models trained with these “silver” labels result in ill-trained models. In this study, we trained ML models for sepsis diagnosis at the ED with labels of 375 ED visits assigned by an endpoint adjudication committee (EAC) that consisted of 18 independent experts. Our objective was to evaluate which routinely measured variables show diagnostic value for sepsis. We performed univariate testing and trained multiple ML models with 95 routinely measured variables of three variable groups; demographic and vital, laboratory and advanced haematological variables. Apart from known diagnostic variables, we identified added diagnostic value for less conventional variables such as eosinophil count and platelet distribution width. In this explorative study, we show that the use of an EAC together with ML can identify new targets for future sepsis diagnosis research.

Introduction: Infra-red (IR) and visible light (VL) based systems developed for transmission of information about physical quantities (e.g. humidity, temperature) out from closed areas, cannot be effectively employed in case of specific conditions in a targeted environment (because of fog or vapor for example). Objectives: In this work, we introduce a concept of wireless short-range transmitter and receiver to sense physical quantities, for instance temperature, with slow variation. The proposed concept is able to transmit analog-based information from isolated environments (e.g. aquariums or environments for plant growing) with high immunity against vapor and fog that limits standard optical (laser, IR band) methods of communication. Methods: In this work, a new concept of short range radiofrequency (RF) communication device consisting of transmitting and receiving parts build from active devices fabricated in 0.35 μm I3T25 3.3 V CMOS process and ferrite antennas is selected. RF part uses medium-wave propagation within 10 mm distance at frequency 700 kHz. Such an approach offers minimal path loss of the radiated energy of a signal and low-gain amplification required for restoration of similar levels as available at the transmitting side. Results: The processing of base-band signals of simple (sine wave) and complex (electrocardiogram) character was verified experimentally through the system. Application example of temperature monitoring in a closed environment, based on a temperature sensor (thermistor), verifies operationability in temperature range from 10 °C up to 50 °C. Conclusion: Compared to state-of-the-art solution, the presented concept has several advantages, for instance: less complexity; using of simpler type of modulation and demodulation; lower power consumption and significantly reduced issues caused by an environment with special transmission conditions (e.g. fog and vapor). The obtained results are in good agreement with expectations. Among others, the presented system brings beneficial performances for similar applications targeting on monitoring of low-frequency or slowly varying signals.

In this study, we used microscopic, spectroscopic, and molecular analysis to characterize endolithic colonization in gypsum (selenites and white crystalline gypsum) from several sites in Sicily. Our results showed that the dominant microorganisms in these environments are cyanobacteria, including: Chroococcidiopsis sp., Gloeocapsopsis pleurocapsoides, Gloeocapsa compacta, and Nostoc sp., as well as orange pigmented green microalgae from the Stephanospherinia clade. Single cell and filament sequencing coupled with 16S rRNA amplicon metagenomic profiling provided new insights into the phylogenetic and taxonomic diversity of the endolithic cyanobacteria. These organisms form differently pigmented zones within the gypsum. Our metagenomic profiling also showed differences in the taxonomic composition of endoliths in different gypsum varieties. Raman spectroscopy revealed that carotenoids were the most common pigments present in the samples. Other pigments such as gloeocapsin and scytonemin were also detected in the near-surface areas, suggesting that they play a significant role in the biology of endoliths in this environment. These pigments can be used as biomarkers for basic taxonomic identification, especially in case of cyanobacteria. The findings of this study provide new insights into the diversity and distribution of phototrophic microorganisms and their pigments in gypsum in Southern Sicily. Furthemore, this study highlights the complex nature of endolithic ecosystems and the effects of gypsum varieties on these communities, providing additional information on the general bioreceptivity of these environments.

Aims: While electrolyte depletion is known to occur during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with extracorporeal circulation, little is known about the frequency of potassium disturbances following either on- or off-pump CABG and its association with mortality. We examined the frequency of potassium disturbances and the association of plasma potassium with mortality risk in patients following CABG. Methods and results: From Danish National Registries, we identified 6123 adult patients (≥18 years old) undergoing first-time CABG, and who had a registered potassium measurement within 14 days before and 7 days after their surgery between 1995 and 2018. Using 4.0–4.6 mmol/L as reference, potassium was stratified into five predefined intervals:

ABSTRACT The search for the “Holy Grail” in clinical diagnostic microbiology—a reliable, accurate, low-cost, real-time, easy-to-use method—has brought up several methods with the potential to meet these criteria. One is Raman spectroscopy, an optical, nondestructive method based on the inelastic scattering of monochromatic light. The current study focuses on the possible use of Raman spectroscopy for identifying microbes causing severe, often life-threatening bloodstream infections. We included 305 microbial strains of 28 species acting as causative agents of bloodstream infections. Raman spectroscopy identified the strains from grown colonies, with 2.8% and 7% incorrectly identified strains using the support vector machine algorithm based on centered and uncentred principal-component analyses, respectively. We combined Raman spectroscopy with optical tweezers to speed up the process and captured and analyzed microbes directly from spiked human serum. The pilot study suggests that it is possible to capture individual microbial cells from human serum and characterize them by Raman spectroscopy with notable differences among different species. IMPORTANCE Bloodstream infections are among the most common causes of hospitalizations and are often life-threatening. To establish an effective therapy for a patient, the timely identification of the causative agent and characterization of its antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance profiles are essential. Therefore, our multidisciplinary team of microbiologists and physicists presents a method that reliably, rapidly, and inexpensively identifies pathogens causing bloodstream infections—Raman spectroscopy. We believe that it might become a valuable diagnostic tool in the future. Combined with optical trapping, it offers a new approach where the microorganisms are individually trapped in a noncontact way by optical tweezers and investigated by Raman spectroscopy directly in a liquid sample. Together with the automatic processing of measured Raman spectra and comparison with a database of microorganisms, it makes the whole identification process almost real time.

The use of quantum sensors is promising detailed insights into physical phenomena such as magnetism or superconductivity. One example of such quantum sensors is a microscopic diamond tip containing nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers, which is capable of producing correlated measurements of vectorial magnetic fields and the sample topography on the nanoscale. In this study, we present a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process to produce diamond tips with NV centers by overgrowing microstructured diamond substrates. The resulting diamond tips exhibit a radius of curvature of approximately 10 nm, suitable for use as a probe in an atomic force microscope. The magnetic sensitivity of the CVD-grown diamond tips is characterized with pulsed measurements of the optically detected magnetic resonance, which yield a minimum magnetic sensitivity of 60 µT $\sqrt{\mathrm{Hz}}^{-1}$ . The growth of the diamond microstructures is observed to differ from the commonly used geometric model predicting CVD growth of bulk diamond crystals. We identify an empirical model for the growth behavior of the microstructures by taking into account processes described in the step flow growth model for crystals. Additionally, we demonstrate the applicability of the developed CVD growth process to membrane substrates required for the preparation of magnetometry-capable diamond tips.

In the aviation industry, a large number of processes are not digitalised. Simultaneously, many special processes are used in production, such as incremental bending. In order to model and efficiently design multi-stage processes with methods such as FEM, automation and linking of the individual simulations are necessary. This paper therefore presents a method for automatically simulating and evaluating a complete incremental bending process with 24 strokes in LS-Dyna using a Python framework with cfiles. The final validation of the force–displacement relationships and inner radii of the generated scaled fuselage shell show high prediction accuracies of about 90%. Thus, the presented methodology enables a FEM-based process design of incremental bending in the aviation industry.

Abstract Proton beam dump experiments are among the most promising strategies to search for light and feebly interacting states such as axion-like particles (ALPs). The interpretation of these experiments is however complicated by the wide range of ALP models and the multitude of different production and decay channels that can induce observable signals. Here we propose a new approach to this problem by separating the calculation of constraints and projected sensitivities into model-independent and model-dependent parts. The former rely on extensive Monte Carlo simulations of ALP production and decays, as well as estimates of the detection efficiencies based on simplified detector geometries. Once these simulations have been performed and tabulated, the latter parts only require simple analytical rescalings that can be performed using the public code ALPINIST released together with this work. We illustrate this approach by considering several ALP models with couplings to Standard Model gauge bosons. For the case of ALPs coupled to gluons we show that the sensitivity of proton beam dump experiments can be extended significantly by considering hadronic ALP decays into three-body final states.

IntroductionWound healing is a complex process to restore homeostasis after injury and insufficient skin wound healing is a considerable problem in medicine. Whereas many attempts of regenerative medicine have been made for wound healing with growth factors and cell therapies, simple pharmacological and immunological studies are lagging behind. We investigated how fibrin hydrogels modulate immune cells and molecules in skin wound healing in mice.MethodsPhysiological fibrin hydrogels (3.5 mg/mL fibrinogen) were generated, biophysically analyzed for stiffness and protein contents and were structurally studied by scanning electron microscopy. Physiological fibrin hydrogels were applied to full thickness skin wounds and, after 3 days, cells and molecules in wound tissues were analyzed. Leukocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts and keratinocytes were explored with the use of Flow Cytometry, whereas cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases were analyzed with the use of qPCR, ELISAs and zymography. Skin wound healing was analyzed microscopically at day 3, macroscopically followed daily during repair in mice and compared with commercially available fibrin sealant Tisseel.ResultsExogenous fibrin at physiological concentrations decreased neutrophil and increased non-classical Ly6Clow monocyte and resolutive macrophage (CD206+ and CX3CR1+) populations, at day 3 after injury. Fibrin hydrogel reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased IL-10 levels. In line with these findings, gelatinase B/MMP-9 was decreased, whereas gelatinase A/MMP-2 levels remained unaltered. Frequencies of dermal endothelial cells, fibroblasts and keratinocytes were increased and keratinocyte migration was enhanced by fibrin hydrogel. Importantly, physiological fibrin accelerated the healing of skin wounds in contrast to the highly concentrated fibrin sealant Tisseel, which delayed wound repair and possessed a higher fiber density.ConclusionCollectively, we show that adding a tailored fibrin hydrogel scaffold to a wound bed positively influences the healing process, modulating leukocyte populations and inflammatory responses towards a faster wound repair.

The growing population and lack of change in resources of cultivated land have led to the search for more efficient farming solutions. The recovery of soil is facilitated by using chemicals designed for the enrichment of cultivated soil. Fertilisers are made of a combination of various substances that determine not only the chemical but also the shape characteristics of the fertiliser pellets. The effect of the quality of fertilisation on yield size is related to even distribution. Shape and size are closely related to the quality of the fertilisation process. The intense control of the production process would not be possible without automatised and quick measurements within the production line. Constant control is necessary to ensure that the products meet quality standards. The contactless assessment of pellet sizes allows a quick reaction to changes in production quality and reduces the costs arising from the reprocessing of defective pellets. The results of the assessment of pellet volume using their two-dimensional image are presented in this publication. Pellets must be analysed according to their most characteristic position, which can provide valuable information about their properties. The aim is to determine the placement positions of the equipment based on calculations and to compare the results with those of gold-standard equipment. Correctly calibrated equipment ensures that the measurement results match the results of the control equipment of fertiliser producers. Reliable non-contact measurements can reduce the reaction time to production changes.

The environment is changing quickly and it is ever more burdened in connection with the greater needs of human society. This fact has increased efforts to improve the management of land and natural resources and the necessity to evaluate them. Land valuations become more important as the land consumption increases. Soil needs to be evaluated in the whole context of how its quality is affected and the values it provides. The concept of ecosystem services offers this holistic view. This paper defines ecosystem services (ES), the various linkages between soil properties, their functions and benefits, the assessment of soil quality using indicators and then briefly mentions EU environmental assessment methods and terms used in the context of ES. The article also mentions frameworks with which to assess and evaluate the soil quality that can be divided into two groups. The first group is comprised of a framework of indicators that describe the current state of the soil system assessment for evaluating the quality of the agricultural land. This is based on a detailed measurement of the terrain, a statistical analysis of soil databases or processing the status of specific threats to the soil. The second group is comprised of a framework of indicators focused on changes in the soil quality and applied soil management. These frameworks deal with the productivity of the soil in various systems of farming, compare agricultural systems or discuss the advantages of soil biota as indicators of soil quality in detail. Many of the designs of the soil quality indicators focus on the soil management in the context of a single discipline such as agriculture or water pollution. There are concepts for considering the soil quality in regional planning.

The project dealt with an evaluation of the soil quality in the Central Bohemian Region in the Czech Republic. The relevant attributes and characteristics were found regarding the soils in this selected area. Based on the data from soil probes, climate characteristics, soil production function and data on the land use, the characteristics, known as soil quality indicators, were selected. Then the soils were sorted into groups which indicated their suitability for the best land use and planning. The characteristics of the soils that contributed the most to the ecosystem services provided by this part of the environment were chosen as the soil quality indicators. In order to find out how the soils are able to provide ecosystem services, two types of approaches were used - the average score and the total amount of points gained. Maps indicating the soil quality were created using the ArcGIS program. At the same time, research on the differences in the quality in two different layers of the soil was carried out. In most cases, there was a decrease in the soil quality with an increasing depth. The results of this project can be used as a basis for a new soil valuation in the Czech Republic.

Chociaż Ziemowit Szczerek należy do najciekawszych polskich współczesnych pisarzy, jego książki nie są zbyt często tłumaczone na inne języki. Biorąc pod uwagę fakt, że podejmuje on głównie kwestie dotyczące Europy Środkowej, to jego utwory z pewnością znalazłyby czytelników także w Czechach lub na Słowacji. Czy przyczyną takiego stanu rzeczy może być bardzo oryginalny styl autora, zniechęcający potencjalnych tłumaczy? W niniejszym artykule podjęto próbę analizy stylu językowego Szczerka na przykładzie jego książki Międzymorze (2017a). Celem rozprawy jest m.in. pokazanie, jak staranna analiza i przygotowanie filologiczne mogą przybliżyć tłumaczowi oryginalny styl autora, a tym samym pomóc w ewentualnym przekładzie. W artykule omówiono specyficzne środki wyrazu: twórczo pojmowane neologizmy oraz wyrażenia ekspresyjne (książkowe i poetyckie, zdrobnienia i zgrubienia, słowa modne, często zaczerpnięte ze slangu młodzieżowego lub z niektórych jej specyficznych subkultur, a także bardzo liczne wulgaryzmy). Szczególną uwagę zwrócono na konkretne konstrukcje zdaniowe i możliwości ich przełożenia na język czeski. Również typowe dla twórczości Szczerka są elementy obcojęzyczne, oddające atmosferę miejsca lub charakteryzujące mówiącego, którego narrator spotyka w podróży po Europie Środkowej. Wszystkie te środki wyrazu stanowią wielkie wyzwanie dla każdego tłumacza, który powinien mieć na uwadze, że głównym nastawieniem narratora jest ironiczny dystans przejawiający się w neutralnym, naturalnym języku, sporadyczne zaś zaangażowanie emocjonalne realizowane jest na zasadzie kontrastu poprzez ekspresję językową. Jednak także ironia może być wyrażana w kategoriach ekspresji (np. nadużywanie zdrobnień). Pozorny „freestyle” autora, zbliżony do tzw. pisma automatycznego, jest w istocie dobrze przemyślaną strategią. Teksty Szczerka stoją na pograniczu literackiego reportażu i fikcji, zaliczane są także do literatury podróżniczej. Dlatego w artykule poruszono również kwestię określenia gatunkowego tej twórczości.

Interpretation of the deep geological and tectonic setting is a key step for safety assessment of the potential sites for a deep geological repository of radioactive waste. However, the conventional geological mapping is difficult in the agricultural landscape with lacking rock outcrops. To address this task, we combined geological and hydrogeological mapping, morphostructural analysis and geophysical methods to construct a new geological map and a 3D model of the Březový potok site in the southwestern Czech Republic. They provide unique constraints for the understanding of the subsurface geological and tectonic architecture. The results are compared with the archive geological data and the usefulness of individual geophysical methods to detect the lithological contacts and tectonic zones is discussed. We present this multi-disciplinary research strategy as a workflow for detailed geological characterization, which can be successfully applied on other sites with similar geological environment.

Abstract An economic concept of acoustic shock wave sensing readout system for simple computer processing is introduced in this work. Its application can be found in precise initialization of the stopwatch from the starter sound, handclap or gun in competitive sport races but also in many other places. The proposed device consists of several low-cost commercially available components and it is powered by a 9 V battery. The proposed device reliably reacts on incoming acoustic shock wave by generation of explicit impulse having controllable duration. It significantly overcomes basic implementations using only a microphone and amplifier (generating parasitic burst instead of defined and distinct impulse) or systems allowing a limited number of adjustable features (gain and/or threshold of the comparator—our concept offers the adjustment of gain, cut-off frequency, threshold level and time duration of active state). In comparison with standard methods, the proposed approach simplifies and makes sensing device less expensive and universal for any powder-based starting gun (without necessity to adapt starting gun). The proposed device, among others, has the following features: impulse duration can be controlled from hundreds of μs up to 2.3 s, the gain range of linear part of processing from 6 to 40 dB and open-collector output compatible with 5 V TTL or 3.3 V CMOS logic. The initialization has been tested in the range from tens of centimeters up to four meters. In order to highlight the important spectral components, the spectral character of the signal can be optimally reduced by a low-pass filter. The quiescent power consumption of the designed simple analog circuit reaches 90 mW. Several use cases, response of the designed system on gunshot signature, talking, hand-clapping and hit on the sensing microphone, are studied and compared to each other. Simulation and experimental results confirm functionality of the realized system.

Children begin to fully understand evaporation at the age of 11 years, but they already have some idea of this phenomenon in preschool age. The paper presents the results of a research exploring the understanding of evaporation by 6- and 9-year-old children. The research used the method of a narrative based on incorrect information in order to verify whether and how well children would discover the errors in that narrative and how they could explain the process of evaporation. The incorrect narrative method is inspired by the science fiction film genre, which uses false assumptions to prove something that is not true. According to the research, half of the children knew that evaporation accompanies the process of cloud formation, but only half of the children who knew that (one-fourth of the respondents) could detect an error in the narrative. The reason for that is believed to be children’s lack of critical thinking and limited structured knowledge of evaporation in the water cycle in nature.

In this paper, we investigate even-order linear difference equations and their criticality. However, we restrict our attention only to several special cases of the general Sturm–Liouville equation. We wish to investigate on such cases a possible converse of a known theorem. This theorem holds for second-order equations as an equivalence; however, only one implication is known for even-order equations. First, we show the converse in a sense for one term equations. Later, we show an upper bound on criticality for equations with nonnegative coefficients as well. Finally, we extend the criticality of the second-order linear self-adjoint equation for the class of equations with interlacing indices. In this way, we can obtain concrete examples aiding us with our investigation.

Obtaining a good surface finish on casting is challenging and depends on the dimension of the sand particles and the processing method of the mold. Evolving modern trends in mould and core production as a binder jetting technology is an option and it is more than desirable to evaluate and remove any possible negative effects. The aim of this study is to compare the influence of furan no-bake technology and 3D printing method on the surface quality of cores and cavities formed in aluminium alloy castings. In addition to the sieve analysis and mechanical properties of the moulding mixtures, the roughness (Ra, Rz) of the cores and resulting casting surfaces of individual samples were compared in this study.

Edaravone is a mitochondrially targeted drug with a suggested capability to modify the course of diverse neurological diseases. Nevertheless, edaravone has not been tested yet in the context of spinocerebellar ataxia 1 (SCA1), an incurable neurodegenerative disease characterized mainly by cerebellar disorder, with a strong contribution of inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study aimed to address this gap, exploring the potential of edaravone to slow down SCA1 progression in a mouse knock-in SCA1 model. SCA1154Q/2Q and healthy SCA12Q/2Q mice were administered either edaravone or saline daily for more than 13 weeks. The functional impairments were assessed via a wide spectrum of behavioral assays reflecting motor and cognitive deficits and behavioral abnormalities. Moreover, we used high-resolution respirometry to explore mitochondrial function, and immunohistochemical and biochemical tools to assess the magnitude of neurodegeneration, inflammation, and neuroplasticity. Data were analyzed using (hierarchical) Bayesian regression models, combined with the methods of multivariate statistics. Our analysis pointed out various previously documented neurological and behavioral deficits of SCA1 mice. However, we did not detect any plausible therapeutic effect of edaravone on either behavioral dysfunctions or other disease hallmarks in SCA1 mice. Thus, our results did not provide support for the therapeutic potential of edaravone in SCA1.

Good postural control is considered to be a key component of an active lifestyle, and numerous studies have investigated the Center of Pressure (CoP) as a way of identifying motor deficits. However, the optimal frequency range for assessing CoP variables and the effect of filtering on the relationships between anthropometric variables and CoP are unclear. The aim of this work is to show the relationship between anthropometric variables and different ways of filtering the CoP data. CoP was measured in 221 healthy volunteers using a KISTLER force plate in four different test conditions, both mono and bipedal. The results show no significant changes in the existing correlations of the anthropometric variable values over different filter frequencies between 10 Hz and 13 Hz. Therefore, the findings with regard to anthropometric influences on CoP, with a reasonable but less than ideal filtering of the data, can be applied to other study settings.

Records of 46 Psychodidae (Sycoracinae 1, Trichomyiinae 1, Psychodinae 44) species/subspecies are presented in this paper based on specimens collected by sweep-netting in Azerbaijan and Georgia in 2019. Nine species are recorded for the first time since their original description; 12 species are new for Transcaucasia; 22 species are new for Azerbaijan; and 17 species are new for Georgia. Saraiella ressli montana Ježek, 1990 is proposed as a synonym of S. ressli Wagner, 1983, syn. nov. Knowledge of some aspects of the ecology and biogeography of selected (especially rare) species has been expanded and a clear pattern was found in species richness, rare species, and new records in relation to land use, habitat diversity, and preservation of the environment surrounding the sampling site.

This contribution concerns the current stage of development of a practically applicable model for automatized delineation of the floodplain. The chief principle, which was added in the present model development stage, was application of the progressive change of model input parameters. The motivation of embedding of this principle was to converge the modelled floodplain to the situation and real properties of the floodplain. In particular, the progressively changing parameters were downstream increasing maximal relative height of the floodplain above the river level and downstream widening buffer zones of maximal floodplain width. The increase of the parameters is defined by a mathematical function. Partial automatization of the process in the ModelBuilder extension in the ArcGIS environment allows its application on the whole catchment at once, therefore it is suitable for floodplain delineation in vast areas, where the complete field mapping would be expensive or time-demanding, or where only partial field data are available. The model was applied in the catchment of the Opava River, and its results were compared to those of the previous stage model and also field-controlled on several localities. The conclusion from the verification is that the progressive change of parameters is a suitable technique that improves the model performance in previously problematic areas. There are, however, still some problems, particularly in setting of the model parameters. Progresivní nárůst vstupních parametrů při vymezování údolní nivy na základě DMR – aplikace a hodnocení modelu na příkladu povodí Opavy Pro vymezení říční nivy byla vyvinuta procedura, která na základě morfometrických dat (vzdálenosti od říčního koryta, relativní výšky nad hladinou řeky a sklonitosti svahů) umožňuje připravit výstupy pro určení rozsahu a polohy údolní nivy. Výhodou tohoto přístupu je malé množství požadovaných vstupních dat. V této publikaci jsou porovnávány výsledky dvou vývojových fází modelu, se stálými a s proměnnými vstupními parametry šířky bufferu vzdálenosti od koryta a relativní výšky nivy. Model je implementován v prostředí ArcGIS jako sada skriptů v jazyce python. Tyto skripty umožňují automatizaci jednotlivých dílčích úkonů nutných pro vymezení říční nivy. Jako vstupní data jsou požadovány pouze liniová vrstva říční sítě a digitální model terénu ve formě rastru. Jediným vstupem, který je nutné nakalibrovat, je parametr, určující rychlost progresivního růstu relativní výšky/vzdálenosti v závislosti na vzdálenosti podél toku. Výsledným rastrům progresivního bufferu, relativní výšky nivy a sklonitosti svahů je přiřazena relativní hodnota, určující pravděpodobnost výskytu nivy. Součtem těchto rastrů vznikne kvantitativní vyjádření pravděpodobnosti výskytu nivy. Díky automatizaci celého procesu do několika skriptů však může řešitel opakovaně určit oblasti pravděpodobného výskytu nivy s různými vstupním parametry progresivního nárůstu šířky / relativní výšky, a následně zvolit variantu nejlépe odpovídající realitě, ověřené například na vybraných profilech v terénu.

BackgroundAortic valve stenosis affects approximately half of people aged ≥85 years, and the recommended surgical treatment for older patients is transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Despite strong evidence for its advantages, low attendance rate in cardiac rehabilitation is observed among patients after TAVI. Cardiac telerehabilitation (CTR) has proven comparable with center-based rehabilitation; however, no study has investigated CTR targeting patients after TAVI. On the basis of participatory design, an exercise-based CTR program (TeleTAVI) was developed, which included a web-based session with a cardiac nurse, a tablet containing an informative website, an activity tracker, and supervised home-based exercise sessions that follow the national recommendations for cardiac rehabilitation. ObjectiveThis study aims to explore patients’ and health professionals’ experiences with using health technologies and participating in the exercise-based CTR program, TeleTAVI. MethodsThis study is a part of a feasibility study and will only report patients’ and health professionals’ experiences of being a part of TeleTAVI. A total of 11 qualitative interviews were conducted using a semistructured interview guide (n=7, 64% patients and n=4, 36% health professionals). Patient interviews were conducted after 8 weeks of participation in TeleTAVI, and interviews with health professionals were conducted after the end of the program. The analysis was conducted as inductive content analysis to create a condensed meaning presented as themes. ResultsReticence toward using the website was evident with reduced curiosity to explore it, and reduced benefit from using the activity tracker was observed, as the patients’ technical competencies were challenged. This was also found when using the tablet for web-based training sessions, leading to patients feeling worried before the training, as they anticipated technical problems. Disadvantages of the TeleTAVI program were technical problems and inability to use hands-on guidance with the patients. However, both physiotherapists and patients reported a feeling of improvement in patients’ physical fitness. The home training created a feeling of safety, supported adherence, and made individualization possible, which the patients valued. A good relationship and continuity in the contact with health professionals seemed very important for the patients and affected their positive attitude toward the program. ConclusionsThe home-based nature of the TeleTAVI program seems to provide the opportunity to support individualization, autonomy, independence, and adherence to physical training in addition to improvement in physical capability in older patients. Despite technological challenges, basing the relationship between the health professionals and patients on continuity may be beneficial for patients. Prehabilitation may also be considered, as it may create familiarity toward technology and adherence to the training.

Psychodid specimens from one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots – the Caucasus region – were sorted from samples collected during field work in 2019. Pneumia fuehzulii sp. nov. (from two localities in Azerbaijan) and Thornburghiella salihi sp. nov. (from one locality in Azerbaijan and four sites in Georgia) are described from this material. Differential diagnoses are given and some morphological characters illustrated. Sijaricia Krek, 1999, syn. nov. of Thornburghiella Vaillant, 1982 is proposed and T. erinacea (Krek, 1971) comb. nov. from Ulomyia Walker, 1856 is suggested.

When introducing changes to an organisation, it is crucial to know how a given change will affect the company’s success. It is easy to forget or, more frequently, fail to appreciate the importance of the feelings and thoughts of the people who experience such changes. The distinction between objective change and subjective change is helpful in understanding the psychological consequences of changes and how they may affect the effectiveness of introducing changes in organisations. Results of studies on the psychological costs of changes for an individual indicate that there are differences in the way people experience objective and subjective changes, and that the way a change is perceived by an individual (i.e., subjective change) is crucial for the consequences of change. Studies have also identified factors which can buffer the negative consequences that changes may have on an individual. For changes in an organisation, coaching is one method to nurture these buffering factors in affected individuals, and, most of all, in those who are responsible for planning and introducing the changes, so that the employees of a company can experience the change in the most constructive way possible.

In this article, I compare two forms of Christian temproality in the Faroe Islands. In so doing, I problematize some of the ways in which the idea of history has been applied theoretically to studies of churches and congregations in the country. As a remedy to what I see as the shortcomings of social theory when applied to Pentecostal temporality, I propose seeing the latter as a form of extended present. This is set in contrast to dispensationalism, which sees historical and theological time as occuring in a sequential manner. Dispensationalism in this context refers more than anything to the Plymouth Brethren, who make up the biggest group of non-Lutheran Christians in the Faroe Islands. Finally, I reflect on how temporality is shaped by operational goals that differ between similar, yet subtly different Christian practitioners.

A simple single parameter adjustable immittance concept designed with modular active devices, fabricated in I3T $25~0.35~\mu \text{m}$ 3.3 V CMOS process of ON Semiconductor, is introduced. The proposed devices employ an integer-order capacitor and specifically designed fractional-order capacitors (sometimes called constant phase elements). The proposed active topology consists of two simple active elements, namely a linearly voltage adjustable operational transconductance amplifier and a voltage differencing unity gain voltage follower/buffer, and only two passive elements, i.e. redundancy is minimized. The designed topology offers generation of an adjustable immittance having both the capacitive and inductive character. The importance of the order as well as the value of the pseudo-capacitance for design and analyzes are shown, including all important parasitic features for estimation of expected operational bandwidth which have to be considered in the design. The operational bandwidth is determined by high values of approximants of fractional-order capacities (225, 56 and $8.8~\mu \text{F}$ /sec^1- $\alpha $ , where $\alpha $ represents the order equal to 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75, respectively). These parameters result into ranges between tens of Hz and units-tens of kHz. The adjustability of the transconductance from 70 to $700~\mu \text{S}$ by the driving voltage between 0.05 and 0.5 V offers approximately one decade change of equivalent capacitance and inductance. Laboratory-based experiments done with a fabricated prototype confirmed the theoretical presumptions.

This work deals with the design of a simple double output voltage phase detector, using a specific type of analog multiplier, and its application in a frequency demodulator. The design of active parts was performed in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) $0.18~\mu \text{m}$ 1.8 V CMOS technology. The intention is devoted to design the circuitry in such a way to avoid low-frequency signal processing with large values of capacities that are not available in case of on-chip implementation. The idea consists in the processing of significantly faster signal (tens of kHz) carrying modulated low frequency information. Then the coupling capacity may have significantly smaller value. The operation of the demodulator was tested for carrier frequency 50 kHz and for modulation signal with frequency of 10 Hz and 500 Hz. Differences of these frequencies approximately determine the values of capacitors required for AC coupling. Simulations (Cadence Spectre simulator) as well as experimental measurement, using fabricated ASIC prototypes, are provided to verify the proposed circuits in both the time and frequency domain.

A design of a fractional-order (FO) integrator is introduced for the operation of the resulting solution in the current mode (CM). The solution of the integrator is based on the utilization of RC structures, but in comparison to other RC structure based FO designs, the proposed integrator offers the electronic control of the order. Moreover, the control of the proposed integrator does not require multiple specific and accurate values of the control voltages/currents in comparison to the topologies based on the approximation of the FO Laplacian operator. The electronic control of a gain level (gain adjustment) of the proposed integrator is available. The paper offers the results of Cadence IC6 (spectre) simulations and more importantly experimental measurements to support the presented design. The proposed integrator can be used to build various FO circuits as demonstrated by the utilization of the integrator into a structure of a frequency filter in order to provide FO characteristics.