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Abstract During growth, cells need to synthesize and expand their envelope, a process that requires careful regulation. Here, we show that the GTPase ObgE of E. coli contributes to the regulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) synthesis, an essential component of the Gram-negative outer membrane. Using a dominant-negative mutant (named ‘ObgE*’), we show a direct interaction between ObgE and LpxA, which catalyzes the first step in LPS synthesis. This interaction is enhanced by the mutation in ObgE* which, when bound to GTP, leads to inhibition of LpxA, decreased LPS synthesis, and cell death. Although wild-type ObgE does not exert the same strong effects as ObgE* on LpxA or LPS synthesis, our data indicate that ObgE participates in the regulation of cell envelope synthesis in E. coli. Because ObgE also influences other cellular functions (i.e., ribosome assembly, DNA replication, etc.), it seems increasingly plausible that this GTPase coordinates several processes to finetune cell growth.

Abstract Magnetic kagome materials provide a fascinating playground for exploring the interplay of magnetism, correlation and topology. Many magnetic kagome systems have been reported including the binary Fe m X n (X = Sn, Ge; m:n = 3:1, 3:2, 1:1) family and the rare earth RMn6Sn6 (R = rare earth) family, where their kagome flat bands are calculated to be near the Fermi level in the paramagnetic phase. While partially filling a kagome flat band is predicted to give rise to a Stoner-type ferromagnetism, experimental visualization of the magnetic splitting across the ordering temperature has not been reported for any of these systems due to the high ordering temperatures, hence leaving the nature of magnetism in kagome magnets an open question. Here, we probe the electronic structure with angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy in a kagome magnet thin film FeSn synthesized using molecular beam epitaxy. We identify the exchange-split kagome flat bands, whose splitting persists above the magnetic ordering temperature, indicative of a local moment picture. Such local moments in the presence of the topological flat band are consistent with the compact molecular orbitals predicted in theory. We further observe a large spin-orbital selective band renormalization in the Fe $${{{{\rm{d}}}}}_{{xy}}+{{{{\rm{d}}}}}_{{x}^{2}-{y}^{2}}$$ d x y + d x 2 − y 2 spin majority channel reminiscent of the orbital selective correlation effects in the iron-based superconductors. Our discovery of the coexistence of local moments with topological flat bands in a kagome system echoes similar findings in magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene, and provides a basis for theoretical effort towards modeling correlation effects in magnetic flat band systems.

Abstract This work shows how to control the surface density and size of InAs/InP quantum dots over a wide range by tailoring the conditions of Stranski-Krastanov growth. We demonstrate that in the near-critical growth regime, the density of quantum dots can be tuned between $$10^7$$ 10 7 and $$10^{10}$$ 10 10 $$\textrm{cm}^{-2}$$ cm - 2 . Furthermore, employing both experimental and modeling approaches, we show that the size (and therefore the emission wavelength) of InAs nanoislands on InP can be controlled independently from their surface density. Finally, we demonstrate that our growth method gives low-density ensembles with well-isolated QD-originated emission lines in the telecom C-band.

Abstract Dynamic compaction is a soil improvement technique which involves the repeated application of an impact load to a contact area of the soil surface induced by heavy weights. Experimental measurements were prepared for evaluation of the ground wave propagation induced by the rapid impact compaction. Influence of increase of subsoil stiffness during compaction and terrain configuration were investigated. When the shear strength of soil is exceeded during the penetration of the compaction footing, increase of peak particle velocities is slower but still clearly visible along the measurement line. The peak particle velocity is damped by the subsoil below 5 mm s−1 within 40–50 m from the source of excitation. Attenuation radius is affected by the terrain configuration, when terrain elevations cause the increase of acceleration amplitudes. Rigid bodies in the ground, such as foundation structures, could have similar influence. Dominant frequencies are in the interval from 20 to 40 Hz regardless the distance from the source of excitation or the density of the treated subsoil. Obtained results are preferably related to the given boundary conditions. However, wave propagation pattern and change of its characteristics during densification of the subsoil are applicable at another construction sites considering their particularities.

Abstract Background To date, no longitudinal studies of quarterly changes have been conducted on the differences in the development of motor coordination between boys and girls in relation to changes in their tennis skills level. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the development of motor coordination of 10–12-year-old tennis players over the course of 1 year, in the light of changes in tennis skills preparation. Methods One-hundred eighty male and female tennis players aged 10, 11, or 12 years old participated in the study. Each age group comprised 30 boys and 30 girls. To investigate their motor coordination development, a battery of general tests (simple reaction, complex reaction, Spalding test, spider test, hexagon jumping, Starosta’s test, hand–eye test, balance, plate tapping, jump rope) and specific tennis skills tests (wall game and 100-tennis ball tests) were performed 4 times quarterly over 1 year. Differences between sexes and the time points were assessed. The rate of development evaluation was based on beta coefficient of linear regression. Results Boys generally performed better in tennis skills tests than girls. The boys performed better also in one motor coordination test (Spalding test) among 10-year-olds, in two additional tests (spider and plate tapping tests) among 11-year-olds, and another three more tests (simple reaction, complex reaction and Starosta’s tests) among 12-year-olds. Jump rope test among 10-year-olds and hexagon jump test among 12-year-olds were the only tests where girls performed better than boys. On the other hand, girls showed higher rate of development in balance and complex reaction tests than boys. Conclusions We conclude that motor coordination and tennis skills development over 1 year is age-, sex-, and task-dependent, with the 10–12-year-old male tennis players performing better in tennis skills and overall motor coordination than females.

Abstract Owing to their exceptional mechanical, electronic, and phononic transport properties, compositionally complex alloys, including high-entropy alloys, represent an important class of materials. However, the interplay between chemical disorder and electronic correlations, and its influence on electronic structure-derived properties, remains largely unexplored. This is addressed for the archetypal CrMnFeCoNi alloy using resonant and valence band photoemission spectroscopy, electrical resistivity, and optical conductivity measurements, complemented by linear response calculations based on density functional theory. Utilizing dynamical mean-field theory, correlation signatures and damping in the spectra are identified, highlighting the significance of many-body effects, particularly in states distant from the Fermi edge. Electronic transport remains dominated by disorder and potentially short-range order, especially at low temperatures, while visible-spectrum optical conductivity and high-temperature transport are influenced by short quasiparticle lifetimes. These findings improve our understanding of element-specific electronic correlations in compositionally complex alloys and facilitate the development of advanced materials with tailored electronic properties.

Objective: To determine the incidence and present our experience with prenatal diagnosis and postnatal outcome of dacryocystocele. Material and methods: All cases of congenital dacryocystocele diagnosed in our center between 2020 and 2022 were identified in our database to establish the incidence of these defects. The medical records were then reviewed for gestational age, gender, size, and side of dacryocystocele and postnatal outcome. Results: A total of 26 cases with dacryocystoceles were found at a mean gestation age of 30 weeks (range, 29–33 weeks). The overall incidence was 1.35%, there was an obvious female predominance (73%), 69% of cases were unilateral and 31% were bilateral. There were no serious associated anomalies. The postnatal outcome was obtained in 88% of cases (23/26), in 39% (9 out of 23) cases the dacryocystocele was confirmed postnatally, and in 7 (77%) of these it was complicated by dacryocystitis. The spontaneous resolution was more likely in the right-sided lesions, and this was statistically significant. The treatment in cases with dacryocystitis involved massage and local antibiotics and was successful in 71% of cases. 2 cases (29%) suffer from recurrent dacryocystitis and are followed up with recurrent probing and local antibiotics. No breathing difficulties were described postnatally in our study group. Conclusion: The overall prenatal incidence of dacryocystocele was 1.35%. The outcome is favorable, 61% of dacryocystoceles in our study resolved spontaneously and in no case postnatal breathing complications were reported. Dacryocystitis was common in persisting cases but was usually treated successfully by massage and antibiotics. The right-sided dacryocystoceles are more likely to resolve spontaneously than left-sided, and this was the only significant factor predicting persistence.

Purpose – The study aims to determine whether a relationship exists between the potential significance of corporate controversies for stakeholders and how organisations respond to them in their annual and sustainability reports. Design/methodology/approach – This paper employs content analysis on annual and sustainability reports of 48 listed companies from the Refinitiv database. The logit regression was used to estimate the model. Findings – The study revealed that the main factors increasing the probability of a controversial issue being addressed in a corporate report are the controversy’s potential significance, companies’ financial performance and lawsuits. Research limitations/implications – Our study has three major limitations. These are a relatively small sample of companies and reports, focusing on disclosures made in corporate reports and omitting other channels of communication, for example, social media, and a certain amount of subjectivity in the process of coding information. Social implications – Former studies show that corporations face a serious risk of their hypocritical strategies becoming too evident for stakeholder groups. Our findings suggest that the risk is already materialising and may undermine the idea of CSR and sustainability reporting. Originality/value – Our research focuses on high-profile adverse incidents widely reported in the media, the omission of which from corporate reports seems to constitute a particular case of organised hypocrite. It also demonstrates that companies use an impression management strategy to defuse adverse publicity and that major controversies cause minor ones to be omitted from their reports.

Review of book Buxton, R., Whiting, L. 2022. Královny filosofie. Život a odkazy nedoceněných žen filosofie.

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an immunosuppressant drug approved for prophylaxis of transplant rejection in patients undergoing solid organ transplantation and is further employed in management of various autoimmune disorders. MMF exhibits notable pharmacokinetic inter- and intraindividual variability necessitating tailored therapeutic approaches to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes while mitigating risks of adverse effects. The objective of this review was to summarize factors that influence the pharmacokinetics of MMF and its active metabolite mycophenolic acid in order to deduce recommendations for personalized treatment strategies. Presumed predictors were analysed in relation to each of the four pharmacokinetic phases, providing tools and targets for MMF dosing optimization amenable to clinical implementation.

Abstract Networks throughout physics and biology leverage spatiotemporal dynamics for computation. However, the connection between structure and computation remains unclear. Here, we study a complex-valued neural network (cv-NN) with linear interactions and phase-delays. We report the cv-NN displays sophisticated spatiotemporal dynamics, which we then use, in combination with a nonlinear readout, for computation. The cv-NN can instantiate dynamics-based logic gates, encode short-term memories, and mediate secure message passing through a combination of interactions and phase-delays. The computations in this system can be fully described in an exact, closed-form mathematical expression. Finally, using direct intracellular recordings of neurons in slices from neocortex, we demonstrate that computations in the cv-NN are decodable by living biological neurons as the nonlinear readout. These results demonstrate that complex-valued linear systems can perform sophisticated computations, while also being exactly solvable. Taken together, these results open future avenues for design of highly adaptable, bio-hybrid computing systems that can interface seamlessly with other neural networks.

Abstract In empirical art research, understanding how viewers judge visual artworks as beautiful is often explored through the study of attributes—specific inherent characteristics or artwork features such as color, complexity, and emotional expressiveness. These attributes form the basis for subjective evaluations, including the judgment of beauty. Building on this conceptual framework, our study examines the beauty judgments of 54 Western artworks made by native Japanese and German speakers, utilizing an extreme randomized trees model—a data-driven machine learning approach—to investigate cross-cultural differences in evaluation behavior. Our analysis of 17 attributes revealed that visual harmony, color variety, valence, and complexity significantly influenced beauty judgments across both cultural cohorts. Notably, preferences for complexity diverged significantly: while the native Japanese speakers found simpler artworks as more beautiful, the native German speakers evaluated more complex artworks as more beautiful. Further cultural distinctions were observed: for the native German speakers, emotional expressiveness was a significant factor, whereas for the native Japanese speakers, attributes such as brushwork, color world, and saturation were more impactful. Our findings illuminate the nuanced role that cultural context plays in shaping aesthetic judgments and demonstrate the utility of machine learning in unravelling these complex dynamics. This research not only advances our understanding of how beauty is judged in visual art—considering self-evaluated attributes—across different cultures but also underscores the potential of machine learning to enhance our comprehension of the aesthetic evaluation of visual artworks.

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate adherence to spironolactone in a group of unselected patients with arterial hypertension by analysis of measured serum spironolactone and canrenone concentrations according to a proposed two-step decision scheme based on pharmacokinetic considerations. Materials and Methods. Simulation of serum concentration-time profiles of spironolactone and canrenone based on population pharmacokinetic parameters described in literature and a body weight-normalized spironolactone dose / canrenone level nomogram derived from a group of adherent patients with conservatively treated primary hyperaldosteronism, were used to create a two-step decision scheme. 71 outpatients treated with spironolactone for resistant hypertension with spironolactone and canrenone serum concentrations measured between 2018 and 2021 were analyzed according to the proposed scheme. We compared our proposed methodology to the standard approach for adherence testing. Results. With the most sensitive traditional approach to adherence assessment through detectable serum concentrations of spironolactone and/or canrenone, 9 (12.7%) non-adherent patients were identified. With our two-step assessment of adherence, we were able to identify 18 (25.4%) non-adherent patients. Conclusion. Consideration of the pharmacokinetic properties of parental drug and its metabolite led to improved sensitivity in non-adherence detection in patients with arterial hypertension. This approach enables better interpretation of measured spironolactone and canrenone serum concentrations and should be used in clinical practice.

Abstract Two‐dimensional direction‐of‐arrival (DoA) estimation in azimuth and elevation via radar systems equipped with uniform rectangular arrays (URAs) will play an important role in various application areas—most distinctively in future urban air mobility settings with unmanned aerial vehicles. A key factor is the fast and reliable provision of target detections in terms of range and DoA for safe autonomous operation of the vehicle using on‐board antenna arrays with compact installation size. The authors present a technique for improving the performance of DoA estimation using compressive sensing in conjunction with multiple‐input multiple‐output arrays with electronically steered beams in the transmit direction. The simulation study investigates the impact of different design considerations on radar signal processing performance. An optimisation of a radar system using electronic beamsteering in the transmit domain is presented numerically. Based on the architecture of the URAs used, performance and detection accuracy can be improved.

PurposeRemote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) is a method of protection against induced ischemia reperfusion injury, and an increasing number of studies showed some of its inconclusive ergogenic effects in sports. RIPC involves short cycles of cuff inflation followed by its deflation which may affect many body systems. While most of the studies focus on single RIPC effects, there is insufficient data regarding training-like repeated RIPC interventions. Thus, in this study, we analyzed the effect of a single- and consecutive 10-day RIPC procedure on a single leg, focusing on the exerkine levels and changes in inflammation markers following the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT).MethodsTwo single-blinded, sham-controlled protocols were designed to evaluate the 1) single (crossover study) and 2) consecutive 10-day (parallel study) RIPC effects on the WAnT performance and exercise-induced lactate, glucose, exerkine, and inflammation markers (BDNF; IL-6; IL-10; IL-15; LIF; oncostatin M). In each protocol, 37 physically active men (19.98 ± 1.17 years) were randomly assigned into two groups according to a particular study design.ResultsAn increase in participants’ mean (4.81%, p < 0.05) and peak power (6.25%, p < 0.05) during the WAnT was observed only after the consecutive 10-day RIPC. Similarly, a significant 15.5% (p < 0.05) decrease in the IL-6 concentration 120 min after the WAnT was observed only in the consecutive 10-day RIPC protocol, as well as a 12.2% (p < 0.01) increase in oncostatin M 60 min after the WAnT.ConclusionThe results demonstrate the efficacy of the consecutive 10-day RIPC procedure in modulating exercise performance and post-exercise inflammation markers.

Although the usual focus is on how n-3 PUFA supplementation affects athletes’ health, questions remain as to whether short-term supplementation affects anaerobic performance and how this type of supplementation is associated with exercise-induced changes in n-6 PUFA content. Physically active young healthy men were assigned to two groups to determine the effect of 21 days of n-3 PUFA supplementation (the study was completed by 9 subjects receiving 3250 mg n-3 PUFA supplement daily, and 15 subjects receiving placebo filled with aqueous solution). Physical performance was measured by double Wingate aerobic test (WAnT). Blood was collected for analysis at four-time points (baseline and 24 h after WAnT, both before and after 21 days of supplementation). The n-3 and n-6 PUFAs were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A significant increase in the n-3 PUFA (140.1 %, p ≤ 0.01) content and decreased dihomo-γ-linolenic (DGLA) (26.5 %, p ≤ 0.01) and adrenic (AdA) (28.3 %, p ≤ 0.01) acid content were observed in the supplementation group compared to the placebo group following supplementation. No exercise-induced changes in PUFA content were observed. Concluding, n-3 PUFA supplementation modified PUFA content in favour of n-3 PUFAs at the expense of some n-6 PUFAs (DGLA and AdA).

CEL NAUKOWY: Celem artykułu jest analiza Fałszerzy pieprzu jako próby przepracowania i przezwyciężenia postpamięciowej traumy, a także umieszczenie ich w szerszym kontekście przemian w polskiej pamięci kulturowej jako Foucaltowskiego dyskursu kontrpamięci. PROBLEM I METODY BADAWCZE: Przyjmując jako punkt wyjścia koncepcję postpamięci Hirsch jako ponadpokoleniowej transmisji traumatycznej, w artykule analizie poddaję biograficzne dyskursy obecne w Fałszerzach pieprzu w kontekście Foucaltowskiej koncepcji kontrpamięci w ujęciu narracyjno-dyskursywnym. PROCES WYWODU: Fałszerze pieprzu są reprezentacją pracy postpamięci. Sznajderman odtwarza dwie równoległe historie rodzinne przodków. Największą oryginalność książki stanowi próba połączenia w ramach biografii rodzinnej dwóch wspólnot pamięci i cierpienia – polskiej i żydowskiej. WYNIKI ANALIZY NAUKOWEJ: Książka Sznajderman stanowi nie tylko próbę przepracowywania rodzinnej postpamięci, ale w szerszym kontekście jest symptomem przemian w polskiej pamięci kulturowej. Można ją odczytać jako Foucaltowski dyskurs kontrpamięci. WNIOSKI, REKOMENDACJE I APLIKACYJNE ZNACZENIE WPŁYWU BADAŃ: Fałszerze pieprzu są przykładem transformacyjnej mocy sztuki, których efektem może być afektywna pamięć, którą Landsberg nazwała pamięcią prostetyczną, a także przykładem komunikowania i negocjowania sprzecznych dyskursów, prowadzących do poszerzenia i przewartościowania polskiej pamięci kulturowej.

Lytic phages control the timepoint of host cell lysis by timing the holin-mediated release of cell wall-degrading endolysins. In phage T4, the antiholin RI inhibits the holin T, thereby preventing the early release of the T4 endolysin and lysis. The antiholin achieves lysis inhibition (LIN) in response to phage superinfections, thereby increasing the chance for lysis in an environment with a lower phage concentration. The holin T consists of a small N-terminal cytoplasmic domain, a transmembrane helix, and a periplasmic C-terminal domain. The antiholin is targeted to the periplasm by a cleavable signal peptide. Recently, the periplasmic soluble domains of the holin and the antiholin were found to form T2/RI2 tetramers in crystals. To investigate the functional relevance of this complex, we reconstituted LIN in a phage-free system, using only RI, T, and endolysin, and combined targeted mutagenesis with functional analyses. Inactivation of the RI signal peptide cleavage site did not abolish LIN, indicating that RI can function in a membrane-bound state, which argued against the tetramer. This led to analyses showing that only one of the two T/RI interfaces in the tetramer is physiologically relevant, which is also the only interaction site predicted by AlphaFold2. Some holin mutations at this interaction site prevented lysis, suggesting that the RI interaction likely acts by blocking the holin oligomerization required for hole formation. We conclude that LIN is mediated by a dimeric T/RI complex that, unlike the tetramer, can be easily formed when both partners are membrane-anchored.

Abstract Working memory (WM) is the ability to maintain and manipulate information ‘in mind’. The neural codes underlying WM have been a matter of debate. We simultaneously recorded the activity of hundreds of neurons in the lateral prefrontal cortex of male macaque monkeys during a visuospatial WM task that required navigation in a virtual 3D environment. Here, we demonstrate distinct neuronal activation sequences (NASs) that encode remembered target locations in the virtual environment. This NAS code outperformed the persistent firing code for remembered locations during the virtual reality task, but not during a classical WM task using stationary stimuli and constraining eye movements. Finally, blocking NMDA receptors using low doses of ketamine deteriorated the NAS code and behavioral performance selectively during the WM task. These results reveal the versatility and adaptability of neural codes supporting working memory function in the primate lateral prefrontal cortex.

Promoting urban well-being is a significant societal task in the context of rapid urbanization. Past research has highlighted that interaction with urban green spaces, such as parks and forests, is key in promoting urban well-being. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the potential in promoting well-being from non-nature elements. In the present study, we explored whether interacting with art could enhance well-being in urban street contexts. In our field experiment, we built two interventions on urban streets, decorating them with either laminated art prints or green elements. We measured subjective and physiological well-being before and after the interaction with the interventions. With this paradigm, we assessed if, not only green, but also artistic interventions can improve well-being. Our results showed that, after interacting with the artistic intervention in an urban environment, the participants reported reduced feelings of anxiety, stress, and negative mood as they did with the green intervention. Further, our results indicate that improvements in well-being were linked to participants’ evaluations of the testing location (restorativeness), of aesthetic quality of the intervention (e.g., beauty, meaningfulness), and of their overall experience (e.g., enjoyment). These findings have significant implications in promoting urban well-being and city planning, as they highlight the potential of art as a novel tool for enhancing urban well-being.

Introduction: Artistic gymnastics is one of the most demanding sports disciplines, with the athletes demonstrating extremely high levels of explosive power and strength. Currently, knowledge of the effect of gymnastic training adaptation on exercise-induced inflammatory response is limited. The study aimed to evaluate inflammatory response following lower- and upper-body high-intensity exercise in relation to the iron status in gymnasts and non-athletes. Methods: Fourteen elite male artistic gymnasts (EAG, 20.6 ± 3.3 years old) and 14 physically active men (PAM, 19.9 ± 1.0 years old) participated in the study. Venous blood samples were taken before and 5 min and 60 min after two variants of Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT), upper-body and lower-body WAnT. Basal iron metabolism (serum iron and ferritin) and acute responses of selected inflammatory response markers [interleukin (IL) 6, IL-10, and tumour necrosis factor α] were analysed.Results: EAG performed significantly better during upper-body WAnT than PAM regarding relative mean and peak power. The increase in IL-6 levels after upper-body WAnT was higher in EAG than in PAM; the opposite was observed after lower-body WAnT. IL-10 levels were higher in EAG than in PAM, and tumour necrosis factor α levels were higher in PAM than those in EAG only after lower-body WAnT. The changes in IL-10 correlated with baseline serum iron and ferritin in PAM.Discussion: Overall, gymnastic training is associated with the attenuation of iron-dependent post-exercise anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion.

Objectives: Rituximab is being increasingly prescribed for the treatment of autoimmune glomerular diseases. While it is highly effective for some diseases, the response is less predictable for others, which may be due to differing requirements in terms of the dosing according to the disease type and variations concerning exposure to the drug. Methods: We compiled novel rituximab dosing schedules according to pharmacokinetic analysis of data gathered from rituximab treated patients in a tertiary referral nephrology centre between May 2020 and June 2023. The population-pharmacokinetic analysis was based on the rituximab dosing, the patients’ characteristics, rituximab levels and anti-rituximab antibodies. Results: The analysis, which was based on data from 185 patients, clearly highlighted differing rituximab dosing requirements for patients with ANCA associated vasculitis and minimal change disease compared to those with membranous nephropathy, focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis and lupus nephritis. This corresponded to the good treatment response of the first two diseases and the unreliable efficacy for the others. The model predicts the rituximab pharmacokinetics with high degree of accuracy when body weight, proteinuria, type of glomerulonephritis, treatment length and anti-rituximab antibodies formation are used as covariates. We proposed a dosing schedule with shortened dosing intervals for difficult-to-treat diagnoses with high proteinuria. Conclusion: In order to ensure reliable and comparable exposure of rituximab with respect to the full range of glomerular diseases, the dosing schedule should be adjusted for membranous nephropathy, focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis and lupus nephritis. This is largely, but not solely, due to the enhanced level of unselective proteinuria in these diseases.

Summary: Bacterial persisters constitute a small fraction of cells that transiently display multidrug tolerance, allowing them to survive antibiotic treatment and to establish a new population upon recovery from the persistent state. Here, we present a protocol to quantify post-antibiotic persister recovery kinetics and physiological states at the single-cell level. We describe steps for sample preparation, technical setup, and data acquisition using spectrophotometry. Our assay allows for the elucidation of genes and mechanisms involved in persister survival.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Wilmaerts et al.1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Abstract Rationale Persistent respiratory symptoms following Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) are associated with residual radiological changes in lung parenchyma, with a risk of development into lung fibrosis, and with impaired pulmonary function. Previous studies hinted at the possible efficacy of corticosteroids (CS) in facilitating the resolution of post-COVID residual changes in the lungs, but the available data is limited. Aim To evaluate the effects of CS treatment in post-COVID respiratory syndrome patients. Patients and methods Post-COVID patients were recruited into a prospective single-center observational study and scheduled for an initial (V1) and follow-up visit (V2) at the Department of Respiratory Medicine and Tuberculosis, University Hospital Olomouc, comprising of pulmonary function testing, chest x-ray, and complex clinical examination. The decision to administer CS or maintain watchful waiting (WW) was in line with Czech national guidelines. Results The study involved 2729 COVID-19 survivors (45.7% male; mean age: 54.6). From 2026 patients with complete V1 data, 131 patients were indicated for CS therapy. These patients showed significantly worse radiological and functional impairment at V1. Mean initial dose was 27.6 mg (SD ± 10,64), and the mean duration of CS therapy was 13.3 weeks (SD ± 10,06). Following therapy, significantly better improvement of static lung volumes and transfer factor for carbon monoxide (DLCO), and significantly better rates of good or complete radiological and subjective improvement were observed in the CS group compared to controls with available follow-up data (n = 894). Conclusion Better improvement of pulmonary function, radiological findings and subjective symptoms were observed in patients CS compared to watchful waiting. Our findings suggest that glucocorticoid therapy could benefit selected patients with persistent dyspnea, significant radiological changes, and decreased DLCO.

The anticipated trends in mobility, either autonomous driving or urban air mobility (UAM), require wireless services to achieve mandatory reliability and safety levels. The number of wireless systems already in-use, especially airborne, occupy regulated spectra. In order to mitigate the impact of a large number of systems mounted to airborne platforms, we propose to combine enabling techniques. These include the joint waveform design, multi-mode multi-port antennas (M3PAs), and appropriate beamforming techniques for joint communication, sensing and localization (JCSL). Our study finds that employing DFT-spread OFDM results in a more consistent radar performance compared to conventional OFDM, highlighting a novel application of this waveform design in JCSL systems. M3PAs are explored as a candidate system for performing JCSL using a single antenna radiator. It is shown how the orthogonality properties of M3PAs are beneficial for avoiding crosstalk in JCSL. We therefore review mature and actively employed techniques and discuss the applicability of M3PAs and novel waveform designs for JCSL. This study aims to conduct a thorough analysis of current systems in operation. Furthermore, design concepts that facilitate the implementation of the JCSL concept in UAM and airborne applications are introduced and discussed.

This paper presents a novel concept for joint light source identification and localization (JLIL) with subsequent interference suppression using a liquid crystal display (LCD)-based receiver. The JLIL concept is particularly suitable for multiple-input single-output visible-light-communication settings, where an LCD-based receiver must be able to identify a desired light source before suppressing interfering ones. Given a basic visible-light-communication setup, in a first step modifications required both on the transmitter and the receiver side are identified. Subsequently, the concept for LCD-based JLIL is introduced, and its performance is illustrated by means of simulation results. In this context, intersymbol interference effects are investigated and a known ambiguity problem is overcome. Finally, results of an experimental verification are reported as a proof of concept. It is shown that the derived simulation model accurately predicts measurement results. The latter confirm a virtually error-free light source identification and precise localization within system accuracy range. Furthermore, an improved peak detection is reported. Signal-to-noise ratio measurements suggest good performance for up to $3 \,\mathrm{m}$ using the developed hardware demonstrator.

We consider visible light communication (VLC) using phosphorescent white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and two different receiver types – a simple receiver for moderate data rate requirements and a sophisticated receiver for higher data rate requirements equipped with an optical blue filter. We address the question, whether it is viable to support both heterogeneous receiver types simultaneously, using a single LED-based transmitter, and characterize the trade-offs associated with a common waveform. In particular, with regard to a simplistic transmitter and receiver structure, we propose a “nested” pulse-position modulation (nPPM) scheme and show that it improves upon conventional time sharing, when the bit rate of the simple receiver is supposed to be retained, while realizing a higher bit rate for the sophisticated receiver. An analysis of the available signal-to-noise ratio at the receiver for a practical setting combined with analytical and simulated error performance results corroborates the feasibility of our approach. Furthermore, we devise an end-to-end signal model, which includes the electrical properties of the LED as well as interference effects associated with optical filtering, and assess the influence on the resulting error performance. Due to its simplicity, our nPPM scheme may be particularly relevant for future mass-market VLC deployments as well as for proprietary solutions.

Methods for calculating the impulse response of dispersive optical wireless channels have been known for a long time. However, a comprehensive procedure for predicting resulting bit error rates, starting from a highly accurate channel emulation method, has not yet been presented. To fill this gap, we propose a methodology for modeling realistic dispersive optical wireless channels that can be used directly for corresponding bit error rate simulations. The importance of proper power normalization of the multipath components is emphasized. Moreover, the optical channel model is embedded in an end-to-end electrical channel model suitable for intensity-modulation/direct detection schemes under linear operation. To significantly reduce the simulation time, a so-called chip-rate model is presented. Finally, based on the proposed modeling approach for dispersive channels, bit error rate simulations are performed for selected intensity modulation schemes with and without equalization at the receiver and are compared within a common and consistent framework.

Joint communication and sensing (JCAS) is of special interest due to densification in various contexts like wireless networks, airspace, and transportation networks. In this paper, a JCAS approach using a single multi-mode multi-port antenna (M3PA) element is proposed. Towards this goal, circular beamforming is applied in order to separate communication and sensing channels, using the unique capabilities of M3PA s. The sensing possibilities using only a single M3PA element are evaluated assuming compressive sensing and MIMO radar signal processing including the polarization domain. Simulation results for an unmanned aerial vehicle scenario indicate a good separation of the communication link and sensing system at the cost of a slightly increased angular error.

We focus on two methods of determining the density of the rock environment based on gravimetric measurements. The first method, a combined underground-surface approach, relies on recent measurements made at pairs of points along the vertical. One point is located in accessible underground spaces, like tunnels, mine workings, or caves, while the other is on the Earth's surface. The second, surface method, is solely based on the analysis of the Gravimetric Database of the Slovak Republic. Both methods are based on the proportionality between free-air anomalies and the gravitational effect of topographic masses, calculated for unit density. We compare the respective outputs of both methods and attempt to understand the existing differences between them. We also confront the density estimates in question with one of the two existing density maps of Slovakia compiled from density measurements on rock samples. Across a total of 14 measured locations, we observe a relatively wide spectrum of values on the agreement-disagreement scale, ranging from close similarity to relatively significant differences.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and its associated symptoms are significant problems that doctors and several studies have attempted to solve throughout the years. It is diagnosed by analyzing a patient’s electrocardiogram (ECG) data. However, continuous efforts have been made to develop an algorithm that detects AFib with optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In this study, a sequential model was used based on feedforward neural network as this is arguably the simplest algorithm developed and requires minimal computing power. The results showed that training the algorithm for 1000 epochs yielded the best results. Further studies showed that using a combination of 10-fold cross-validation and blindfold validation proved an ideal way to determine the model's capabilities in distinguishing patients with AFib from those without. In conclusion, the developed model successfully distinguished between AFib and non-AFib patients with a 96.67% sensitivity, 94.61% specificity, and 95.64% accuracy.

InBi(001) is formed epitaxially on InAs(111)-A by depositing Bi onto an In-rich surface. Angle-resolved photoemission measurements reveal topological electronic surface states, close to the M[over ¯] high symmetry point. This demonstrates a heteroepitaxial system entirely in the III–V family with topological electronic properties. InBi shows coexistence of Bi and In surface terminations, in contradiction with other III–V materials. For the Bi termination, the study gives a consistent physical picture of the topological surface electronic structure of InBi(001) terminated by a Bi bilayer rather than a surface formed by splitting to a Bi monolayer termination. Theoretical calculations based on relativistic density functional theory and the one-step model of photoemission clarify the relationship between the InBi(001) surface termination and the topological surface states, supporting a predominant role of the Bi bilayer termination. Furthermore, a tight-binding model based on this Bi bilayer termination with only Bi–Bi hopping terms, and no Bi–In interaction, gives a deeper insight into the spin texture.

Purpose: This study evaluates a deep learning-based denoising algorithm to improve the trade-off between radiation dose, image noise, and motion artifacts in TIPSS procedures, aiming for shorter acquisition times and reduced radiation with maintained diagnostic quality. Methods: In this retrospective study, TIPSS patients were divided based on CBCT acquisition times of 6 s and 3 s. Traditional weighted filtered back projection (Original) and an AI denoising algorithm (AID) were used for image reconstructions. Objective assessments of image quality included contrast, noise levels, and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) through place-consistent region-of-interest (ROI) measurements across various critical areas pertinent to the TIPSS procedure. Subjective assessments were conducted by two blinded radiologists who evaluated the overall image quality, sharpness, contrast, and motion artifacts for each dataset combination. Statistical significance was determined using a mixed-effects model (p ≤ 0.05). Results: From an initial cohort of 60 TIPSS patients, 44 were selected and paired. The mean dose-area product (DAP) for the 6 s acquisitions was 5138.50 ± 1325.57 µGy·m2, significantly higher than the 2514.06 ± 691.59 µGym2 obtained for the 3 s series. CNR was highest in the 6 s-AID series (p < 0.05). Both denoised and original series showed consistent contrast for 6 s and 3 s acquisitions, with no significant noise differences between the 6 s Original and 3 s AID images (p > 0.9). Subjective assessments indicated superior quality in 6 s-AID images, with no significant overall quality difference between the 6 s-Original and 3 s-AID series (p > 0.9). Conclusions: The AI denoising algorithm enhances CBCT image quality in TIPSS procedures, allowing for shorter scans that reduce radiation exposure and minimize motion artifacts.

Herein, the synthesis of vanadium sulfide (VxSy) by atomic layer deposition (ALD) based on the use of tetrakis(dimethylamino) vanadium (IV) and hydrogen sulfide is presented for the first time. The (ultra)thin films VxSy are synthesized in a wide range of temperatures (100–225 °C) and extensively characterized by different methods. The chemical composition of the VxSy (ultra)thin films reveals different vanadium oxidation states and sulfur‐based species. Extensive X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis studies the effect of different ALD parameters on the VxSy chemical composition. Encouraged by the rich chemistry properties of vanadium‐based compounds and based on the variable valences of vanadium, the electrochemical properties of ALD VxSy (ultra)thin films as electrode material for supercapacitors are further explored. Thereby, nanotubular composites are fabricated by coating TiO2 nanotube layers (TNTs) with different numbers of VxSy ALD cycles at low temperature (100 °C). Long‐term cycling tests reveal a gradual decline of electrochemical performance due to the progressive VxSy thin films dissolution under the experimental conditions. Nevertheless, VxSy‐coated TNTs exhibit significantly superior capacitance properties as compared to the blank counterparts. The enhanced capacitance properties exhibited are derived from the presence of chemically stable and electrochemically active S‐based species on the TNTs surface.

IntroductionGestalt perception refers to the cognitive ability to perceive various elements as a unified whole. In our study, we delve deeper into the phenomenon of Gestalt recognition in visual cubist art, a transformative process culminating in what is often described as an Aha moment. This Aha moment signifies a sudden understanding of what is seen, merging seemingly disparate elements into a coherent meaningful picture. The onset of this Aha moment can vary, either appearing almost instantaneously, which is in line with theories of hedonic fluency, or manifesting after a period of time, supporting the concept of delayed but more in-depth meaningful insight.MethodsWe employed pupillometry to measure cognitive and affective shifts during art interaction, analyzing both maximum pupil dilation and average dilation across the trial. The study consisted of two parts: in the first, 84 participants identified faces in cubist paintings under various conditions, with Aha moments and pupil dilation measured. In part 2, the same 84 participants assessed the artworks through ratings in a no-task free-viewing condition.ResultsResults of part 1 indicate a distinctive pattern of pupil dilation, with maximum dilation occurring at both trial onset and end. Longer response times were observed for high-fluent, face-present stimuli, aligning with a delayed but accurate Aha-moment through recognition. Additionally, the time of maximum pupil dilation, rather than average dilation, exhibited significant associations, being later for high-fluent, face-present stimuli and correct detections. In part 2, average, not the time of maximum pupil dilation emerged as the significant factor. Face-stimuli and highly accessible art evoked stronger dilations, also reflecting high clearness and negative valence ratings.DiscussionThe study underscores a complex relationship between the timing of recognition and the Aha moment, suggesting nuanced differences in emotional and cognitive responses during art viewing. Pupil dilation measures offer insight into these processes especially for moments of recognition, though their application in evaluating emotional responses through artwork ratings warrants further exploration.

Nanostructured palladium (Pd) is a universal catalyst that is widely used in applications ranging from catalytic converters of combustion engine cars to hydrogenation catalysts in industrial processes. Standard protocols for synthesizing such nanoparticles (NPs) typically use bottom‐up approaches. They utilize special and often expensive physical techniques or wet‐chemical methods requiring organic surfactants. These surfactants should often be removed before catalytic applications. In this article, the synthesis of Pd NPs immobilized on carbon support by electrochemical erosion without using any surfactants or toxic materials is reported. The Pd NPs synthesis essentially relies on a Pd bulk pretreatment, which causes material embrittlement and allows the erosion process to evolve more efficiently, producing homogeneously distributed NPs on the support. Moreover, the synthesized catalyst is tested for hydrogen evolution reaction. The activity evaluations identify optimal synthesis parameters related to the erosion procedure. The electrocatalytic properties of the Pd NPs produced with sizes down to 6.4 ± 2.9 nm are compared with a commercially available Pd/C catalyst. The synthesized catalyst outperforms the commercial catalyst within all properties, like specific surface area, geometric activity, mass activity, specific activity, and durability.

Abstract The European Plate Observing System (EPOS) is a long-term initiative aimed at integrating research infrastructures for solid Earth science in Europe. EPOS provides a sustainable, multidisciplinary user-oriented platform - the EPOS Data Portal - that facilitates data integration, access, use, and re-use, while adhering to the FAIR principles. The paper describes the key governance, community building, and technical aspects for achieving multidisciplinary data integration through the portal. It also outlines the key portal features for aggregating approximately 250 data sources from more than ten different scientific communities. The main architectural concepts underpinning the portal, namely the rich-metadata, the service-driven data provision, and the usage of semantics, are outlined. The paper discusses the challenges encountered during the creation of the portal, describes the community engagement process, and highlights the benefits to the scientific community and society. Future work includes expanding portal functionalities to include data analysis, processing, and visualization and releasing the portal as an open-source software package.

Abstract Multicomponent nanoparticle systems are known for their varied properties and functions, and have shown potential as gene nanocarriers. This study aims to synthesize and characterize ternary nickel–cobalt-ferrite (NiCoFe2O4) nanoparticles with the potential to serve as gene nanocarriers for cancer/gene therapy. The biogenic nanocarriers were prepared using a simple and eco-friendly method following green chemistry principles. The physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller. To evaluate the morphology of the nanoparticles, the field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging, and electron tomography were conducted. Results indicate the nanoparticles have a nanoflower morphology with a mesoporous nature and a cubic spinel structure, where the rod and spherical nanoparticles became rose-like with a specific orientation. These nanoparticles were found to have minimal toxicity in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293 T) cells at concentrations of 1 to 250 µg·mL–1. We also demonstrated that the nanoparticles could be used as gene nanocarriers for delivering genes to HEK-293 T cells using an external magnetic field, with optimal transfection efficiency achieved at an N/P ratio of 2.5. The study suggests that biogenic multicomponent nanocarriers show potential for safe and efficient gene delivery in cancer/gene therapy. Graphical Abstract

Abstract The interplay between spin-orbit interaction and magnetic order is one of the most active research fields in condensed matter physics and drives the search for materials with novel, and tunable, magnetic and spin properties. Here we report on a variety of unique and unexpected observations in thin multiferroic Ge1−x Mn x Te films. The ferrimagnetic order parameter in this ferroelectric semiconductor is found to switch direction under magnetostochastic resonance with current pulses many orders of magnitude lower as for typical spin-orbit torque systems. Upon a switching event, the magnetic order spreads coherently and collectively over macroscopic distances through a correlated spin-glass state. Utilizing these observations, we apply a novel methodology to controllably harness this stochastic magnetization dynamics.

Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) is a key element of any mitigation strategy aiming to achieve the long-term temperature goal of the Paris Agreement, as well as national net-zero and net-negative greenhouse gas emissions targets. For robust CDR policy, the credibility of certification schemes is essential.

Researchers have studied the effects of exercise on serum methyl-arginine and vitamin D metabolites; however, the effects of exercise combined with antioxidants are not well documented. Since oxidative stress affects the metabolism of vitamin D and methyl-arginine, we hypothesised that the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) might modulate exercise-induced changes. A group of twenty-eight healthy men participated in this study and were divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The exercise test was performed until exhaustion, with gradually increasing intensity, before and after the 21-day CoQ10 supplementation. Blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and 3 and 24 h after exercise. CoQ10, vitamin D metabolites, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine, methylarginine, dimethylamine, arginine, citrulline, and ornithine were analysed in serum samples. CoQ10 supplementation caused a 2.76-fold increase in the concentration of serum CoQ10. Conversely, the 25(OH)D3 concentration increased after exercise only in the placebo group. ADMA increased after exercise before supplementation, but a decrease was observed in the CoQ10 supplementation group 24 h after exercise. In conclusion, our data indicate that CoQ10 supplementation modifies the effects of exercise on vitamin D and methyl-arginine metabolism, suggesting its beneficial effects. These findings contribute to the understanding of how antioxidants like CoQ10 can modulate biochemical responses to exercise, potentially offering new insights for enhancing athletic performance and recovery.

Abstract Creativity is a compelling yet elusive phenomenon, especially when manifested in visual art, where its evaluation is often a subjective and complex process. Understanding how individuals judge creativity in visual art is a particularly intriguing question. Conventional linear approaches often fail to capture the intricate nature of human behavior underlying such judgments. Therefore, in this study, we employed interpretable machine learning to probe complex associations between 17 subjective art-attributes and creativity judgments across a diverse range of artworks. A cohort of 78 non-art expert participants assessed 54 artworks varying in styles and motifs. The applied Random Forests regressor models accounted for 30% of the variability in creativity judgments given our set of art-attributes. Our analyses revealed symbolism, emotionality, and imaginativeness as the primary attributes influencing creativity judgments. Abstractness, valence, and complexity also had an impact, albeit to a lesser degree. Notably, we observed non-linearity in the relationship between art-attribute scores and creativity judgments, indicating that changes in art-attributes did not consistently correspond to changes in creativity judgments. Employing statistical learning, this investigation presents the first attribute-integrating quantitative model of factors that contribute to creativity judgments in visual art among novice raters. Our research represents a significant stride forward building the groundwork for first causal models for future investigations in art and creativity research and offering implications for diverse practical applications. Beyond enhancing comprehension of the intricate interplay and specificity of attributes used in evaluating creativity, this work introduces machine learning as an innovative approach in the field of subjective judgment.

Abstract Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and its numerical expression via apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values are commonly utilized in non-invasive assessment of various brain pathologies. Although numerous studies have confirmed that ADC values could be pathognomic for various ring-enhancing lesions (RELs), their true potential is yet to be exploited in full. The article was designed to introduce an image analysis method allowing REL recognition independently of either absolute ADC values or specifically defined regions of interest within the evaluated image. For this purpose, the line of interest (LOI) was marked on each ADC map to cross all of the RELs’ compartments. Using a machine learning approach, we analyzed the LOI between two representatives of the RELs, namely, brain abscess and glioblastoma (GBM). The diagnostic ability of the selected parameters as predictors for the machine learning algorithms was assessed using two models, the k-NN model and the SVM model with a Gaussian kernel. With the k-NN machine learning method, 80% of the abscesses and 100% of the GBM were classified correctly at high accuracy. Similar results were obtained via the SVM method. The proposed assessment of the LOI offers a new approach for evaluating ADC maps obtained from different RELs and contributing to the standardization of the ADC map assessment.

Abstract The nexus between classic ferroelectricity and the structure of perovskite materials hinges on the concept of lattice disorder. Although the ordered perovskites display short-range displacements of the central cations around their equilibrium points, the lattice disorder dynamically unfolds to generate a myriad of distorted rhombohedral lattices characterized by the hopping of the central cations across directions. It is discovered that the lattice disorder correlates with the emergence of minimum configuration energy pathways for the central cations, resulting in spatially modulated ultrafast polarization nanocluster arrangements that are stabilized by the electric charge defects in the material. Through high-resolution phonon dispersion analyses encompassing molecular dynamics (MD) and density functional theory (DFT) simulations, we provide unequivocal evidence linking the hopping of central cations to the development of diffuse soft phonon modes observed throughout the phase transitions of the perovskite. Through massive MD simulations, we unveil the impact of lattice disorder on the structures of domain walls at finite-temperature vis-à-vis collective activation and deactivation of pathways. Furthermore, our simulations demonstrate the development of hierarchical morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) nanostructures under the combined influence of externally applied pressure and stress relaxation, characterized by sudden emergence of zig-zagged monoclinic arrangements that involve dual shifts of the central cations. These findings have implications for tailoring MPBs in thin-film structures and for the light-induced mobilization of DWs. Avenues are finally uncovered to the exploration of lattice disorder through gradual shear strain application.

Any object on the globe, in addition to the gravitational force, is affected by the force associated with the rotation of the Earth, i.e., the centrifugal force, which together define the force of gravity. Due to various factors, both external (the influence of other celestial bodies) and internal (the inhomogeneous internal structure of the Earth), the gravity depends on the location and time of observation. The study on gravity is made possible by using extremely sensitive measuring devices called gravimeters, which are a branch of physical geodesy called geodetic gravimetry. Geodetic gravimetry is widely used in geodesy to study the shape of the geoid and the realisation of gravimetric control networks or in geophysics to detect mineral deposits, underground watercourses or caves. However, in order to obtain reliable results, it is necessary not only to measure the gravity accurately, but also to reduce these measurements adequately. This is possible by determining, among other things, the vertical gravity gradients (VGG), which are used to reduce the measured gravity values to any reference level. In our research, we focused on analysing the change in the value of VGGs in the closed area of the Military University of Technology (MUT). We used 33 points of the existing vertical and horizontal networks of the MUT for measurements. We performed the observations using ZLS Burris model B-67 spring gravimeter at several heights in the range of 0.1 m to 1.3 m using a specially constructed tripod. We showed that the values of the vertical gradients vary over the selected area from ‒0.2534 mGal/m to ‒0.3917 mGal/m. The obtained results show consistency with the spatial distribution of changes of the topography of the terrain, the density of the Earth’s crust, and the type of geological formations present beneath the surface. In the study, we also showed the relevance of using the actual (measured) values of gradients to analyse geoid-to-quasigeoid separation. We have shown that taking the actual gradient values instead of their average (or modelled) values results in deviations in modelling the separation of both geodetic reference surfaces of up to 2 mm in the study area.Keywords: gravity, vertical gravity gradient, gravimetry, geoid-quasigeoid separation

Aims. The study analysed post-acute COVID-19 symptoms and the pulmonary function test (PFT) results in patients surviving the native strain of the virus. Methods. The study was prospective; the inclusion criteria were positive PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 and age 18-100. Exclusion criteria were active respiratory infection, known or suspicious pre-existing pulmonary disease, cardiac failure, recent or acute pulmonary embolism, anaemia, and neuromuscular diseases. The recruitment period was 1st March 2020 - 25th December 2020. The initial examination was performed 4-12 weeks after the disease onset. All subjects underwent physical examination, anamnesis, chest x-ray and PFT. Results. The study involved 785 subjects (345 male) mean age 53.8 (SD 14.6). The disease severity groups were: mild (G1), moderate (G2) and severe/critical (G3). Anosmia was present in the acute disease phase in 45.2% of G1 patients, but only in 4.5% of G3 patients. Dyspnoea occurred frequently in more severe groups (40%, 51.8% and 63.7% for G1, G2 and G3 respectively), while cough and fatigue showed no relationship to disease severity. Females were more likely to experience persistent symptoms. PFT results were significantly decreased in more severe groups compared to the mild COVID-19 patients, diffusing capacity was 86.3%, 79% and 68% of predicted values in G1, G2 and G3 respectively. Conclusion. Anosmia during the acute phase was associated with mild disease, persisting dyspnoea was more frequent after more severe COVID-19. Females tended to have persisting symptoms in post-acute phase more frequently. PFT results showed decrease with disease severity.

The experiment aims to monitor the amino acid content, total polyphenolic components, and antioxidant activity values of wines that have matured on yeast and non-yeast sludge. The grape varieties used in the experiment, which lasted 300 days, were (Vitis vinifera L.) Chardonnay, Riesling rhinestone, and Veltliner green. During this time, both the measured parameters and the characteristics of the wine gradually changed. The total amount of amino acids in the wines aged on yeast sludge was more than 200% greater than that found in wines aged without yeast sludge. A 30% decrease in the total polyphenolic component content was noted for wines produced with yeast lees. The antioxidant activity levels correlated with the total polyphenol content, with the levels in wines made with yeast lees on average 13% lower. The experiment showed that wines produced by these different methods have different mutagenic characteristics. Sensory analysis of the wines demonstrated that wines matured on yeast sludge have better organoleptic properties. These wines were sturdier, fuller, and more harmonious than wines aged without a yeast sludge.