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El maltrato y la dominación jerárquica en el trabajo son problemas persistentes a pesar de los avances en derechos laborales. Este estudio evalúa la eficacia del mecanismo sancionador contra el acoso laboral en Ecuador, utilizando un enfoque cualitativo y un diseño descriptivo no experimental transversal. Se revisaron legislaciones nacionales, jurisprudencia, tratados internacionales y artículos académicos para analizar el procedimiento sancionador en el sector privado ecuatoriano. El problema central es la prevalencia del acoso laboral y la necesidad de un mecanismo eficaz para sancionarlo y proteger a las víctimas. El objetivo general es evaluar cómo el mecanismo sancionador actual aborda el acoso laboral y su impacto en la protección de los derechos laborales. Los resultados indican que el procedimiento sancionador ha mejorado significativamente la identificación y denuncia de casos de acoso laboral. El Ministerio de Trabajo recibe denuncias regularmente, reflejando una mayor conciencia y disposición de los empleados para reportar comportamientos abusivos. Sin embargo, existen desafíos en términos de recursos y supervisión para garantizar la aplicación estricta y constante de las sanciones. Las conclusiones destacan que la implementación del mecanismo sancionador ha proporcionado un marco estructurado para la investigación y resolución de denuncias, fortaleciendo la protección de los derechos laborales. No obstante, se necesita una evaluación continua de la accesibilidad y eficacia del proceso legal para asegurar que las víctimas no enfrenten obstáculos significativos. La legislación ecuatoriana, respaldada por este mecanismo, ha mejorado el apoyo y justicia para las víctimas de acoso laboral, pero aún requiere ajustes para optimizar su efectividad y alcance.

Abstract Hadal trenches are unique geological and ecological systems located along subduction zones. Earthquake-triggered turbidites act as efficient transport pathways of organic carbon (OC), yet remineralization and transformation of OC in these systems are not comprehensively understood. Here we measure concentrations and stable- and radiocarbon isotope signatures of dissolved organic and inorganic carbon (DOC, DIC) in the subsurface sediment interstitial water along the Japan Trench axis collected during the IODP Expedition 386. We find accumulation and aging of DOC and DIC in the subsurface sediments, which we interpret as enhanced production of labile dissolved carbon owing to earthquake-triggered turbidites, which supports intensive microbial methanogenesis in the trench sediments. The residual dissolved carbon accumulates in deep subsurface sediments and may continue to fuel the deep biosphere. Tectonic events can therefore enhance carbon accumulation and stimulate carbon transformation in plate convergent trench systems, which may accelerate carbon export into the subduction zones.

Abstract The physiological effects of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) are well documented, yet the behavioural effects not well known. Risk compensation suggests that gains in personal safety, as a result of vaccination, are offset by increases in risky behaviour, such as socialising, commuting and working outside the home. This is potentially important because transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is driven by contacts, which could be amplified by vaccine-related risk compensation. Here, we show that behaviours were overall unrelated to personal vaccination, but—adjusting for variation in mitigation policies—were responsive to the level of vaccination in the wider population: individuals in the UK were risk compensating when rates of vaccination were rising. This effect was observed across four nations of the UK, each of which varied policies autonomously.

Momordica charantia is well known for its medicinal properties. It has exhibited various pharmacological activities, such as antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Although this plant is used worldwide as a vegetable and medicinal ingredient in herbal medicines, its toxicity studies have not been conducted to date. This study attempts to understand its toxicity. The present study examined the activity of two enzymes, acetylcholinesterase and succinate dehydrogenase, as well as histopathological variations in the liver, intestine, and gills of zebrafish. The results of the acetylcholinesterase assay showed that the concentrations of 40 mg/L and 60 mg/L of the four extracts (leaf and fruit extracts of both varieties) exhibited increased enzyme activity. Interestingly, the leaves of the green fruit variety at a concentration of 60 mg/L showed the highest activity, with a value of 2.824 ± 0.0682 micromoles/min compared to the control value of 1.8347 ± 0.0046 micromoles/min. On the other hand, the succinate dehydrogenase assay revealed that the concentrations of 40 mg/L and 60 mg/L of the extracts decreased the enzyme activity. The highest inhibition was observed in the concentration of 60 mg/L of the leaves of the white-fruited variety and the green-fruited variety, with values of 1.884 ± 0.0482 micromoles/min compared to the control value of 2.747 ± 0.0046 micromoles/min. The studies on histopathological changes also demonstrated abnormalities in the brain, liver, intestine, and gills of zebrafish after the exposure to the extracts of M. charantia. The severity of the damage varied from low to high concentraions. In general, this study sheds light on the safety profile of Momordica charantia and highlights its potential toxicity in animal models. The findings suggest that more research is needed to fully understand the toxicity of this plant and its implications for human use.

Study objective: As stunting is the most perilous health and nutrition problem for children under five in rural poor households worldwide and CCT programs are normally used to reduce poverty through conditionalities, this study examines the effect of CCT program health conditionality on reducing stunting, considering the longer time perspective which lacks in most available evidence. Study design: This was quasi-experimental design. Methods: The study used secondary household data kept by TASAF PSSN in Tanzania, coupled with corresponding children data from their respective clinic cards. The study used Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD) for inferential statistics regarding household stunting. Results: Children mothers are mostly non-educated with 33 % for control and 23 % for treatment ended in class seven. At 95 % CI and shorter time, the control group were better in stunting by 0.14 points compared to treatment albeit not significant. For longer time, TASAF CCT program through health conditionality compliance reported 0.31 points reduction in stunting significant at 95 % CI. Conclusion: The results reveal that for the short time, CCT health conditionality does not result in reducing stunting in under-five children. However, given the longer time (more than five years), CCT health conditionalities have the potential to reduce stunting in children and improve children's health status. The study recommends compliance with CCT program conditionalities as one among the means of improving under-five children's health status. Furthermore, the study urges policy makers to rely on longer-time children's health outcomes for policy decisions as shorter time reveals negative and non-significant.

AbstractThis study addresses the challenges facing Conditional Cash Transfer Programs (CCT) by investigating whether recipients are satisfied with health services and how contextual factors affect the utilization of health services. The study used binary logistic regression to determine households’ satisfaction with health facility services and was guided by the theory of change and expectation disconfirmation theory, with independent variables being the contextual factors. Generally, 68.66% of health facility service recipients are satisfied, compared to 31.34% who are not. At 95% confidence interval, an increase in household head education and household members is likely to increase satisfaction with health facility services, while service delays and beliefs in traditional medications are likely to negatively affect satisfaction to around 30% or more. The study calls for constant and continual collaboration between CCT program designers and implementers and health facility service providers, who have a significant role to play in reducing service delays. Moreover, it emphasizes the necessity for contextual factors to be considered in promoting health utilization, which is at the heart of CCT program health conditionality compliance. The study’s outcome highlights the need for additional efforts to be focused on the design and implementation of the CCT program, particularly in improving contextual factors, which are often given less attention.

In educational psychology, metacognition is regarded as a pivotal component of successful learning, involving awareness and control over one's cognitive processes. This paper investigates the metacognitive strategies employed by college students at Emilio Aguinaldo College - Cavite, Philippines, with a focus on how these strategies contribute to their academic and personal growth. The study pursued a mixed-methods research design, integrating a survey adapted from renowned Filipino scholars to ascertain the metacognitive approaches of 25 Teacher Education majors during the Academic Year 2021-2022. The findings illuminate that the predominant strategy among students is self-motivation, despite encountering distractions that impede their task performance. Interestingly, it also uncovers the resilience of these students in navigating educational challenges amid the pandemic, harnessing metacognition to enhance learning and fortify their future teaching vocations. However, the study's scope is confined to examining metacognitive strategy improvement, relying solely on the self-assessed metacognitive levels of the participants. This research contributes original insights into the metacognitive strategies within the unique context of Philippine higher education, centering on a select group of Education majors and their self-regulatory learning techniques.

El fenómeno del emprendimiento se ha considerado un importante mecanismo para lograr a nivel mundial el desarrollo de las sociedades; sin embargo, ello solo es posible cuando se promueven ideas de negocios innovadoras, logrando, con ello, una ventaja competitiva en un contexto global. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo principal analizar factores e intervenciones que facilitan el desarrollo del emprendimiento peruano, estudiando para ello cuatro elementos: Educación financiera, planificación, direccionamiento y el entorno. El estudio que dio origen a este artículo se desarrolló bajo un enfoque cuantitativo, de tipo descriptivo. La población objeto de estudio según el informe técnico “Demografía empresarial en el Perú”, elaborado por el Instituto Nacional de Estadística e Informática (2021), estuvo constituida por 2.054 emprendimientos creados y registrados en el 2021, por lo que al momento del estudio su ciclo de vida es de dos años. Se estableció una muestra de 746 emprendedores a los que se les aplicó un cuestionario. Se concluyó que el desarrollo de un emprendimiento exitoso requiere la comprensión y manejo de los aspectos relacionados con la planificación, el direccionamiento, la educación financiera y el entorno.

Bioprospecting native Australian plants offers the potential discovery of latent and novel bioactive compounds. The promising cytotoxic and antibacterial activity of methanolic extracts of Pittosporum angustifolium and Terminalia ferdinandiana led to further fractionation and isolation using our laboratory’s bioassay-guided fractionation protocol. Hence, the aim of this study was to further evaluate the bioactivity of the fractions and subfractions and characterize bioactive compounds using liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography MS (GC-MS). Compounds tentatively identified in P. angustifolium Fraction 1 using LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS were chlorogenic acid and/or neochlorogenic acid, bergapten, berberine, 8′-epitanegool and rosmarinic acid. GC-MS analysis data showed the presence of around 100 compounds, mainly comprising carboxylic acids, sugars, sugar alcohols, amino acids and monoalkylglycerols. Furthermore, the fractions obtained from T. ferdinandiana flesh extracts showed no cytotoxicity, except against HT29 cell lines, and only Fraction 2 exhibited some antibacterial activity. The reduced bioactivity observed in the T. ferdinandiana fractions could be attributed to the potential loss of synergy as compounds become separated within the fractions. As a result, the further fractionation and separation of compounds in these samples was not pursued. However, additional dose-dependent studies are warranted to validate the bioactivity of T. ferdinandiana flesh fractions, particularly since this is an understudied species. Moreover, LC-MS/GC-MS studies confirm the presence of bioactive compounds in P. angustifolium Fraction 1/subfractions, which helps to explain the significant acute anticancer activity of this plant. The screening process designed in this study has the potential to pave the way for developing scientifically validated phytochemical/bioactivity information on ethnomedicinal plants, thereby facilitating further bioprospecting efforts and supporting the discovery of novel drugs in modern medicine.

This study aimed to fill a gap in the sustainable management of the reverse supply chain of Guaiamum and Uçá crab waste in Brazil, an endangered species. The study focused on the circular economy, governance, and recent developments, and identified circular economy practices in the utilization of solid waste from the fishing and collection of these species in extractive regions, in line with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A systematic literature review was conducted in major scientific databases. The selection of the 20 research publications followed pre-established criteria, including relevance to the SDGs and systematic review methodology. The results highlighted key variables related to the characteristics of by-products and the factors that influence the adoption of circular economy practices, in line with relevant SDGs. The most mentioned by-products include animal feed, organic fertilizer, biofuels, crab shell chitin biocomposite derivatives, as well as Chitosan-based composites for food packaging applications due to their non-toxicity, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. The study also identified future research opportunities covering education, policy, and management, in line with the UN SDGs. This study emphasizes the importance of the circular economy for solid crab waste in Brazil, a country with 12% of the world’s mangroves, which are essential both as a nursery for crabs and for ocean nutrition. It also analyzes current trends and initiatives in the reverse management of Guaiamum and Uçá crab waste, in the context of Supply Chain and Sustainable Management.

ABSTRACT Phosphorous is a limiting nutrient in sugarcane cultivated in Argisols in the Northeast of Brazil, and understanding its availability in the soil, as well as determining sufficiency ranges in the plants is essential when recommending levels of phosphorus fertiliser. The aim of this study was to: (i) Define classes for interpreting P availability in Argisols of the Northeast using the Mehlich-1 and Anion Exchange Resin (AER) extractors; (ii) Evaluate P extraction by the same extractors; and (iii) Correlate the P content of the soil with the P content of the plants, and establish sufficiency ranges in the plants. Three field trials were carried out in a sandy (PVAd1), medium (PAdx) and clayey (PVAd2) Argisol, applying the following amounts of P: 0, 40, 80, 120, 160 and 200 kg ha-1 P2O5. The AER extracted more P than did Mehlich-1 from each of the soils. The P content of the classes for interpreting P availability determined by the AER were higher than those determined by Mehlich-1. AER was the best extractor to represent P availability in the Argisol with the clayey texture (PVAd2), and Mehlich-1 in the Argisol with the sandy texture (PVAd1). The ranges of P sufficiency in the leaves of the sugarcane varied between soils, with values of 0.66-0.73 g kg-1 in PVAd1, 0.59-0.69 g kg-1 in PVAd2 and 0.34-0.47 g kg-1 in PAdx. As such, the texture of Argisols cultivated with sugarcane in the Northeast of Brazil should be a criterion for choosing the P extractor used in assessing its availability.

In several engineering applications, the demand for robust yet lightweight materials have exponentially increased. Additive Manufacturing and 3D printing technology have the scope to make this possible at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. Majority of the previous studies are focused mainly towards the printing parameters namely build orientation, infill density, and layer height etc. Also, most studies considered strength as an output response. However, when it comes to the cellular geometry and nozzle diameter, these parameters were found limited in the literature. Similarly, the combination of output responses such as stiffness, strength, toughness and resilience are found rarely in the previous studies. The current study is designed to capture the said gap in the literature with focus on cell geometry, nozzle diameter and strain rate by using the Taguchi design of experimentation and Grey Relational Analysis. Tensile test results performed on six different patterned samples under ASTM D638 standard suggest that square patterned samples perform the best under tension and retain more mechanical strength than the other five patterns. The grey relational analysis indicates that highest grey relational grade (GRG) was achieved for the larger nozzle diameter of 0.8 mm, strain rate of 5 mm per minute and square cellular geometry. It has been observed that highest contributing factor was nozzle diameter (48.99%), whereas cellular geometry was ranked second with (40.78%) as obtained from analysis of variance (ANOVA). The grey relational analysis simplified the complex 3D printing process optimization.

Teachers enter the profession with enthusiasm for the new adventure. Unfortunately, when they start working, they encounter circumstances that give rise to stress. The present study, which used a sample of 550 participants from 50 primary schools selected from the Kisarawe district in the Coastal Region of Tanzania, examines the extent of stress among primary school teachers and the factors influencing stress. Overall, the results indicate that teachers’ levels of stress range from low to moderate. Moreover, the results from hierarchical regression analysis indicate that factors such as sex, class size, age, career intentions and teaching subject significantly predict teachers’ stress. The study concludes that there is a need for the government, policymakers and school administrators to reduce teachers’ workload. Furthermore, school administrators in particular should be supportive and should design mechanisms that could develop a sense of collegiality among teachers in order to improve teacher-to-teacher relationships.

SN H0pe is a triply imaged supernova (SN) at redshift z = 1.78 discovered using the James Webb Space Telescope. In order to classify the SN spectroscopically and measure the relative time delays of its three images (designated A, B, and C), we acquired NIRSpec follow-up spectroscopy spanning 0.6–5 μ m. From the high signal-to-noise spectra of the two bright images B and C, we first classify the SN, whose spectra most closely match those of SN 1994D and SN 2013dy, as a Type Ia SN. We identify prominent blueshifted absorption features corresponding to Si ii λ 6355 and Ca ii H λ 3970 and K λ 3935. We next measure the absolute phases of the three images from our spectra, which allow us to constrain their relative time delays. The absolute phases of the three images, determined by fitting the three spectra to Hsiao07 SN templates, are ${6.5}_{-1.8}^{+2.4}$ days, ${24.3}_{-3.9}^{+3.9}$ days, and ${50.6}_{-15.3}^{+16.1}$ days for the brightest to faintest images. These correspond to relative time delays between Image A and Image B and between Image B and Image C of $-{122.3}_{-43.8}^{+43.7}$ days and ${49.3}_{-14.7}^{+12.2}$ days, respectively. The SALT3-NIR model yields phases and time delays consistent with these values. After unblinding, we additionally explored the effect of using Hsiao07 template spectra for simulations through 80 days instead of 60 days past maximum, and found a small (11.5 and 1.0 days, respectively) yet statistically insignificant (∼0.25 σ and ∼0.1 σ ) effect on the inferred image delays.

AT 2019azh is a H+He tidal disruption event (TDE) with one of the most extensive ultraviolet and optical data sets available to date. We present our photometric and spectroscopic observations of this event starting several weeks before and out to approximately 2 yr after the g -band's peak brightness and combine them with public photometric data. This extensive data set robustly reveals a change in the light-curve slope and a possible bump in the rising light curve of a TDE for the first time, which may indicate more than one dominant emission mechanism contributing to the pre-peak light curve. Indeed, we find that the MOSFiT -derived parameters of AT 2019azh, which assume reprocessed accretion as the sole source of emission, are not entirely self-consistent. We further confirm the relation seen in previous TDEs whereby the redder emission peaks later than the bluer emission. The post-peak bolometric light curve of AT 2019azh is better described by an exponential decline than by the canonical t ^−5/3 (and in fact any) power-law decline. We find a possible mid-infrared excess around the peak optical luminosity, but cannot determine its origin. In addition, we provide the earliest measurements of the H α emission-line evolution and find no significant time delay between the peak of the V -band light curve and that of the H α luminosity. These results can be used to constrain future models of TDE line formation and emission mechanisms in general. More pre-peak 1–2 days cadence observations of TDEs are required to determine whether the characteristics observed here are common among TDEs. More importantly, detailed emission models are needed to fully exploit such observations for understanding the emission physics of TDEs.

We present an analysis of ground-based and JWST observations of SN 2022pul, a peculiar “03fg-like” (or “super-Chandrasekhar”) Type Ia supernova (SN Ia), in the nebular phase at 338 days postexplosion. Our combined spectrum continuously covers 0.4–14 μ m and includes the first mid-infrared spectrum of a 03fg-like SN Ia. Compared to normal SN Ia 2021aefx, SN 2022pul exhibits a lower mean ionization state, asymmetric emission-line profiles, stronger emission from the intermediate-mass elements (IMEs) argon and calcium, weaker emission from iron-group elements (IGEs), and the first unambiguous detection of neon in a SN Ia. A strong, broad, centrally peaked [Ne ii ] line at 12.81 μ m was previously predicted as a hallmark of “violent merger” SN Ia models, where dynamical interaction between two sub- M _Ch white dwarfs (WDs) causes disruption of the lower-mass WD and detonation of the other. The violent merger scenario was already a leading hypothesis for 03fg-like SNe Ia; in SN 2022pul it can explain the large-scale ejecta asymmetries seen between the IMEs and IGEs and the central location of narrow oxygen and broad neon. We modify extant models to add clumping of the ejecta to reproduce the optical iron emission better, and add mass in the innermost region (

The study of supernova (SN) siblings, supernovae with the same host galaxy, is an important avenue for understanding and measuring the properties of Type Ia SN Ia light curves (LCs). Thus far, sibling analyses have mainly focused on optical LC data. Considering that LCs in the near-infrared (NIR) are expected to be better standard candles than those in the optical, we carry out the first analysis compiling SN siblings with only NIR data. We perform an extensive literature search of all SN siblings and find six sets of siblings with published NIR photometry. We calibrate each set of siblings ensuring they are on homogeneous photometric systems, fit the LCs with the SALT3-NIR and SNooPy models, and find median absolute differences in μ values between siblings of 0.248 and 0.186 mag, respectively. To evaluate the significance of these differences beyond measurement noise, we run simulations that mimic these LCs and provide an estimate for uncertainty on these median absolute differences of ∼0.052 mag, and we find that, statistically, our analysis rules out the nonexistence of intrinsic scatter in the NIR at the 99% level. When comparing the same sets of SN siblings, we observe a median absolute difference in μ values between siblings of 0.177 mag when using optical data alone as compared to 0.186 mag when using NIR data alone. It is unclear if these results may be due to limited statistics or poor quality NIR data, all of which will be improved with the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.

IntroductionLaser-induced photodamage is a robust method for investigating retinal pathologies in small animals. However, aiming of the photocoagulation laser is often limited by manual alignment and lacks real-time feedback on lesion location and severity. Here, we demonstrate MURIN: MUltimodal Retinal Imaging and Navigated-laser-delivery, a multimodality OCT and SLO ophthalmic imaging system with an image-guided scanning laser lesioning module optimized for the murine retina. The proposed system enables targeting of focal and extended area lesions under OCT guidance to benefit visualization of photodamage response and the precision and repeatability of laser lesion models of retinal injury.MethodsMURIN optics were optimized for simultaneous near-infrared and visible wavelength imaging/laser lesioning. Custom LabView control software was developed to steer the photocoagulation laser and automatically deliver laser pulses to targets-of-interest. In vivo retinal imaging was performed in transgenic Müller glia-tdTomato reporter mice (Rlbp1:CreER; Rosaai14, 5 animals, 10 eyes) and microglia-GFP/Müller glia-tdTomato reporter mice (Cx3cr1GFP; Rlbp1:CreER; Rosaai14, 9 animals, 15 eyes) to visualize cellular changes in the retina after laser lesion delivery.ResultsReal-time MURIN imaging concurrent with laser lesioning allowed us to visualize lesion formation dynamics and any corresponding changes in retinal morphology. We observe increasing fluorescence photoconversion on SLO and scattering contrast on OCT. Significant morphological changes are visible on MURIN after high-severity photodamage. OCT cross-sections show the spatial extent of the lesions contract over time from diffusion areas of increased scattering to granular scatterers and corresponding SLO images show a radial pattern surrounding severe focal lesions, which may be a result of a change in Müller cell shape or orientation in response to injury. The inner plexiform layer is distorted and increased RPE thickness and scattering are observed, all of which are confirmed on corresponding hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) histology and differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy.DiscussionMURIN as a unique imaging platform that enables combined SLO and OCT imaging with an integrated image-guided laser lesioning module. This technology has clear benefits over existing multimodal imaging and laser lesioning systems by enabling simultaneous multimodal imaging, independent and precise control of Iridex laser pulse parameters and patterns, and real-time OCT and SLO visualization of lesion formation.

Flowering in saffron is a highly complex process regulated by the synchronized action of environmental cues and endogenous signals. Hormonal regulation of flowering is a very important process controlling flowering in several plants, but it has not been studied in saffron. Flowering in saffron is a continual process completed in months with distinct developmental phases, mainly divided into flowering induction and flower organogenesis/formation. In the present study, we investigated how phytohormones affect the flowering process at different developmental stages. The results suggest that different hormones differentially affect flower induction and formation in saffron. The exogenous treatment of flowering competent corms with abscisic acid (ABA) suppressed both floral induction and flower formation, whereas some other hormones, like auxins (indole acetic acid, IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA), behaved contrarily at different developmental stages. IAA promoted flower induction, while GA suppressed it; however, GA promoted flower formation, whereas IAA suppressed it. Cytokinin (kinetin) treatment suggested its positive involvement in flower induction and flower formation. The expression analysis of floral integrator and homeotic genes suggests that ABA might suppress floral induction by suppressing the expression of the floral promoter (LFY, FT3) and promoting the expression of the floral repressor (SVP) gene. Additionally, ABA treatment also suppressed the expression of the floral homeotic genes responsible for flower formation. GA reduces the expression of flowering induction gene LFY, while IAA treatment upregulated its expression. In addition to these genes, a flowering repressor gene, TFL1-2, was also found to be downregulated in IAA treatment. Cytokinin promotes flowering induction by increasing the expression levels of the LFY gene and decreasing the TFL1-2 gene expression. Moreover, it improved flower organogenesis by increasing the expression of floral homeotic genes. Overall, the results suggest that hormones differently regulate flowering in saffron via regulating floral integrator and homeotic gene expression.

We present JWST near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopic observations of the nearby normal Type Ia supernova (SN) SN 2021aefx in the nebular phase at +255 days past maximum light. Our Near Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec) and Mid Infrared Instrument observations, combined with ground-based optical data from the South African Large Telescope, constitute the first complete optical+NIR+MIR nebular SN Ia spectrum covering 0.3–14 μ m. This spectrum unveils the previously unobserved 2.5−5 μ m region, revealing strong nebular iron and stable nickel emission, indicative of high-density burning that can constrain the progenitor mass. The data show a significant improvement in sensitivity and resolution compared to previous Spitzer MIR data. We identify numerous NIR and MIR nebular emission lines from iron-group elements as well as lines from the intermediate-mass element argon. The argon lines extend to higher velocities than the iron-group elements, suggesting stratified ejecta that are a hallmark of delayed-detonation or double-detonation SN Ia models. We present fits to simple geometric line profiles to features beyond 1.2 μ m and find that most lines are consistent with Gaussian or spherical emission distributions, while the [Ar iii ] 8.99 μ m line has a distinctively flat-topped profile indicating a thick spherical shell of emission. Using our line profile fits, we investigate the emissivity structure of SN 2021aefx and measure kinematic properties. Continued observations of SN 2021aefx and other SNe Ia with JWST will be transformative to the study of SN Ia composition, ionization structure, density, and temperature, and will provide important constraints on SN Ia progenitor and explosion models.

Abstract The photoreceptor-specific nuclear receptor Nr2e3 is not expressed in Nr2e3 rd7/rd7 mice, a mouse model of the recessively inherited retinal degeneration enhanced S-cone sensitivity syndrome (ESCS). We characterized in detail C57BL/6J Nr2e3 rd7/rd7 mice in vivo by fundus photography, optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography and, post mortem, by histology and immunohistochemistry. White retinal spots and so-called ‘rosettes’ first appear at postnatal day (P) 12 in the dorsal retina and reach maximal expansion at P21. The highest density in ‘rosettes’ is observed within a region located between 100 and 350 µM from the optic nerve head. ‘Rosettes’ disappear between 9 to 12 months. Non-apoptotic cell death markers are detected during the slow photoreceptor degeneration, at a rate of an approximately 3% reduction of outer nuclear layer thickness per month, as observed from 7 to 31 months of age. In vivo analysis of Nr2e3 rd7/rd7 Cx3cr1 gfp/+ retinas identified microglial cells within ‘rosettes’ from P21 on. Subretinal macrophages were observed in vivo and by confocal microscopy earliest in 12-months-old Nr2e3 rd7/rd7 retinas. At P21, S-opsin expression and the number of S-opsin expressing dorsal cones was increased. The dorso-ventral M-cone gradient was present in Nr2e3 rd7/rd7 retinas, but M-opsin expression and M-opsin expressing cones were decreased. Retinal vasculature was normal.

We present the design, simulation, and characterization of a magnetic shape-memory alloy (MSMA) film actuator that transitions from bistable switching to resonant self-actuation when subjected to a stationary heat source. The actuator design comprises two Ni-Mn-Ga films of 10 µm thickness integrated at the front on either side of an elastic cantilever that moves freely between two heatable miniature permanent magnets and, thus, forms a bistable microswitch. Switching between the two states is induced by selectively heating the MSMA films above their Curie temperature Tc. When continuously heating the permanent magnets above Tc, the MSMA film actuator exhibits an oscillatory motion in between the magnets with large oscillation stroke in the frequency range of 50–60 Hz due to resonant self-actuation. A lumped-element model (LEM) is introduced to describe the coupled thermo-magnetic and magneto-mechanical performance of the actuator. We demonstrate that this performance can be used for the thermomagnetic energy generation of low-grade waste heat (T < 150 °C) with a high power output per footprint in the order of 2.3 µW/cm2.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often recognized as an inflammation-linked cancer, which possesses an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Curative treatments such as surgical resection, liver transplantation, and percutaneous ablation are mainly applicable in the early stage and demonstrate significant improvement of survival rate in most patients. However, 70–80% of patients report HCC recurrence within 5 years of curative treatment, representing an important clinical issue. However, there is no effective recurrence marker after surgical and locoregional therapies, thus, tumor size, number, and histological features such as cancer cell differentiation are often considered as risk factors for HCC recurrence. Host immunity plays a critical role in regulating carcinogenesis, and the immune microenvironment characterized by its composition, functional status, and density undergoes significant alterations in each stage of cancer progression. Recent studies reported that analysis of immune contexture could yield valuable information regarding the treatment response, prognosis and recurrence. This review emphasizes the prognostic value of tumors associated with immune factors in HCC recurrence after curative treatment. In particular, we review the immune landscape and immunological factors contributing to early-stage HCC recurrence, and discuss the immunotherapeutic interventions to prevent tumor recurrence following curative treatments.

Abstract Background To cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing restrictions where implemented in France, which could have led to social isolation. This is expected to have affected the mental health situation, including increasing risk of symptoms of anxiety and depression in the general population. Persons with prior mental health difficulties could be an especially vulnerable group, however, few studies have tested this empirically considering preexisting mental health difficulties. We examine the association between preexisting symptoms of anxiety/depression and anxiety/depression during lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic in a longitudinal community sample. Methods A longitudinal follow-up during lockdown (data collection March–June 2020) was implemented among participants of the TEMPO cohort. Prior knowledge of anxiety/depression was included from prior waves of data collection. Generalized estimation equations models were used to estimate the association between preexisting symptoms of anxiety/depression and symptoms of anxiety/depression during lockdown among 662 mid-aged individuals. Results Individuals with symptoms of anxiety/depression measured prior to lockdown had 6.73 higher odds [95% CI = 4.45–10.17] of symptoms of anxiety/depression during lockdown. Additionally, the likelihood of symptoms of anxiety/depression during lockdown was elevated among women (OR = 2.07 [95% CI = 1.32–3.25]), subjects with low household income (OR = 2.28 [1.29–4.01]) and persons who reported being lonely (OR = 3.94 [95% CI = 2.47–6.28]). Conclusions Our study underlines the role of preexisting symptoms of anxiety/depression as a vulnerability factor of anxiety/depression during lockdown. Interventions focusing on individuals with mental health difficulties as well as people feeling lonely should be considered, to reduce the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Most cold-climate biological nutrient removal facilities experience poor settling mixed liquor during winter, resulting in treatment capacity throughput limitations. The Metro Wastewater Reclamation District in Denver, Colorado, operated two full-scale secondary treatment trains to compare the existing biological nutrient removal configuration (Control) to one that was modified to operate with an anaerobic selector and with hydrocyclone selective wasting (Test) to induce granulation. Results from this evaluation showed that the Test achieved significantly better settling behaviour than the Control. The difference in the mean diluted SVI30 between the Test and Control were statistically significant (P < 0.05), with values of 77 ± 17 and 135 ± 25 mL/g observed for the Test and Control respectively. These settling results were accompanied by differences in the particle size distribution, with notably higher settling velocities commensurate with increasing particle size. The degree of granulation observed in the Test train was between 32 and 56% of the mass greater than ≥250 μm in particle size whereas 16% of the mixed liquor in the Control was ≥250 μm over the entire study period. The improved settling behaviour of the Test configuration may translate into an increase of secondary treatment capacity during winter by 32%. HIGHLIGHTS Inducing granulation in a full-scale continuous flow activated sludge system was possible with the application of both biological and physical selection pressures.; Observations in this study could translate to a cost effective intensification solution versus traditional expansion for WRRFs evaluating capacity needs.;

High-speed atomic force microscopy height spectroscopy and single channel electrophysiology recordings are used to correlate conformational and functional dynamics of the model membrane protein, outer membrane protein G (OmpG). These techniques show that both states coexist and rapidly interchange in all conditions supported by molecular dynamics simulations.

Summary: This paper presents an investigation of the heat transfer processes in miniature thermomagnetic generators (TMGs) that are based on the recently developed concept of resonant self-actuation of a cantilever enabling efficient conversion of thermal into electrical energy. A lumped element model (LEM) is introduced to describe the dynamics of heat intake during mechanical contact between a thermomagnetic (TM) film and heat source, and of heat dissipation. The key parameters governing heat intake and dissipation are the heat transfer coefficient at contact and the thermal resistance Rb of the bonding layer between TM film and cantilever, respectively. The effects of these parameters on the performance metrics are investigated for different heat source temperatures above the Curie temperature of the TM film. LEM simulations reveal critical values of κ and Rb, above which stable performance of energy generation occurs characterized by large stroke and frequency resulting in large power.

The clinical manifestations of envenomation by Bothrops species are complex and characterized by prominent local effects that can progress to tissue loss, physical disability, or amputation. Systemic signs can also occur, such as hemorrhage, coagulopathy, shock, and acute kidney failure. The rapid development of local clinical manifestations is accompanied by the presence of mediators of the inflammatory process originating from tissues damaged by the bothropic venom. Considering the important role that the complement system plays in the inflammatory response, in this study, we analyzed the action of Bothrops jararaca snake venom on the complement system and cell surface receptors involved in innate immunity using an ex vivo human whole blood model. B. jararaca venom was able to induce activation of the complement system in the human whole blood model and promoted a significant increase in the production of anaphylatoxins C3a/C3a-desArg, C4a/C4a-desArg, C5a/C5a-desArg and sTCC. In leukocytes, the venom of B. jararaca reduced the expression of CD11b, CD14 and C5aR1. Inhibition of the C3 component by Cp40, an inhibitor of C3, resulted in a reduction of C3a/C3a-desArg, C5a/C5a-desArg and sTCC to basal levels in samples stimulated with the venom. Exposure to B. jararaca venom induced the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as TNF-α, IL-8/CXCL8, MCP-1/CCL2 and MIG/CXCL9 in the human whole blood model. Treatment with Cp40 promoted a significant reduction in the production of TNF-α, IL-8/CXCL8 and MCP-1/CCL2. C5aR1 inhibition with PMX205 also promoted a reduction of TNF-α and IL-8/CXCL8 to basal levels in the samples stimulated with venom. In conclusion, the data presented here suggest that the activation of the complement system promoted by the venom of the snake B. jararaca in the human whole blood model significantly contributes to the inflammatory process. The control of several inflammatory parameters using Cp40, an inhibitor of the C3 component, and PMX205, a C5aR1 antagonist, indicates that complement inhibition may represent a potential therapeutic tool in B. jararaca envenoming.

Subject of research. The paper considers an additional error in the railway track position control by stereoscopic methods and examines how the components of the error influence on the measurement results of linear displacements of the track in the profile and plan. Method. The authors propose to use active reference marks located on the supports of the contact network and describe a method for assessing additional errors of the track position control made by a stereoscopic optical-electronic system. On the basis of computer modeling, we investigate the degree of influence of the components of the system error on the total value of the additional error. The conclusions are formulated through analysis of the diagrams obtained via a computer model and the results of an experimental study of the system’s technological samples. Main results. The work reports on the relationship between the linear displacements of the track in the profile and plan with the coordinates of the reference marks as well as the parameters of the system elements with the informative parameters of the signal. A mathematical description of the components of additional errors of the stereoscopic system with changes in the medium temperature, vibration amplitude, vertical gradient of the air path temperature, and movement speed is proposed. It is shown that the components of the error caused by vibrations, inertia of the system, and thermal deformation of the base unit produce the greatest effect on the total additional error in decreasing order. Theoretical, experimental and field testing have shown that the assessment of the random component of the displacement control error when measuring the track position does not exceed 0.8 mm in the longitudinal profile, and 1.8 mm in the plan. Practical relevance. The authors developed a method for studying additional errors in determining the displacement of the track in the profile and in the plan by means of a stereoscopic control system. The prepared recommendations can reduce the most strongly influencing components of the additional error. A stand and software for static and dynamic testing of physical models have been created. The proposed solutions are aimed at achieving full automation of control of the actual position of the railway track when servicing continuous straightening technologies with high-performance track machines using stereoscopic optical-electronic systems. The results can be applied by developers of high-precision optical-electronic systems for ensuring the safety of railway traffic.

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society (GRSS) created the GRSS “Standards for Earth Observation Technical Committee” to advance the usability of remote sensing products by experts from academia, industry, and government through the creation and promotion of standards and best practices. In February 2019, a Project Authorization Request was approved by the IEEE Standards Association (IEEE-SA) with the title “Standard for Spaceborne Global Navigation Satellite Systems Reflectometry (GNSS-R) Data and Metadata Content.” At present, 4 GNSS constellations cover the Earth with their navigation signals: The United States of America (USA) Global Positioning System GPS with 31 Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) operational satellites, the Russian GLObal’naya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema GLONASS with 24 MEO operational satellites, the European Galileo with 24 MEO operational satellites, and the Chinese BeiDou-3 with 3 Inclined GeoSynchronous Orbit (IGSO), 24 MEO, and 2 Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit (GEO) operational satellites. Additionally, several regional navigation constellations increase the number of available signals for remote sensing purposes: the Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System QZSS with 1 GSO and 3 Tundra-type orbit operational satellites, and the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System IRNSS with 3 GEO and 4 IGSO operational satellites. On the other hand, there are different GNSS-R processing techniques, instruments and spaceborne missions, and a wide variety of retrieval algorithms have been used. The heterogeneous nature of these signals of opportunity as well as the numerous working methodologies justify the need of a standard to further advance in the development of GNSS-R towards an operational Earth Observation technique. In particular, the scope of this working group is to develop a standard for data and metadata content arising from past, present, and future spaceborne missions such as the United Kingdom (UK) TechDemoSat-1 TDS-1, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) CYclone Global Navigation Satellite System CYGNSS constellation coordinated by the University of Michigan (UM). In this article we describe the scene study, including fundamental aspects, scientific applications, and historical milestones. The spaceborne standard is under development and it will be published in IEEE-SA.

Background & Aims: Microfold cells (M cells) are immunosurveillance epithelial cells located in the Peyer’s patches (PPs) in the intestine and are responsible for monitoring and transcytosis of antigens, microorganisms, and pathogens. Mature M cells use the receptor glycoprotein 2 (GP2) to aid in transcytosis. Recent studies have shown transcription factors, Spi-B and SRY-Box Transcription Factor 8 (Sox8). are necessary for M-cell differentiation, but not sufficient. An exhaustive set of factors sufficient for differentiation and development of a mature GP2+ M cell remains elusive. Our aim was to understand the role of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) as an epigenetic regulator of M-cell development. Estrogen-related–receptor γ (Esrrg), identified as a PRC2-regulated gene, was studied in depth, in addition to its relationship with Spi-B and Sox8. Methods: Comparative chromatin immunoprecipitation and global run-on sequencing analysis of mouse intestinal organoids were performed in stem condition, enterocyte conditions, and receptor activator of nuclear factor κ B ligand–induced M-cell condition. Esrrg, which was identified as one of the PRC2-regulated transcription factors, was studied in wild-type mice and knocked out in intestinal organoids using guide RNA's. Sox8 null mice were used to study Esrrg and its relation to Sox8. Results: chromatin immunoprecipitation and global run-on sequencing analysis showed 12 novel PRC2 regulated transcription factors, PRC2-regulated Esrrg is a novel M-cell–specific transcription factor acting on a receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand–receptor activator of nuclear factor κB–induced nuclear factor-κB pathway, upstream of Sox8, and necessary but not sufficient for a mature M-cell marker of Gp2 expression. Conclusions: PRC2 regulates a significant set of genes in M cells including Esrrg, which is critical for M-cell development and differentiation. Loss of Esrrg led to an immature M-cell phenotype lacking in Sox8 and Gp2 expression. Transcript profiling: the data have been deposited in the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus database (GSE157629).

Student attitude toward chemistry may influence engagement and achievement in chemistry-related courses, however, equivocal results in studies conducted in Western countries to date indicate this relationship requires further investigation. In this study, we investigated the correlation between attitude toward chemistry and achievement amongst a cohort of first-year undergraduate students from The University of the South Pacific (USP). A cluster analysis was used to identify low- and high-achieving groups of students to further explore potential correlations. There was a positive correlation between the cognitive and affective components of attitude among low-achieving students, but not among high-achieving students. The cognitive component of attitude did not appear to be strongly correlated with achievement in students from either group, although the affective component was positively correlated with achievement. The single item most strongly correlated with student achievement was their response on the Worthless-Beneficial scale. One of the notable findings was the differences in the attitude-achievement relationship between low-achieving and high-achieving students, suggesting that combining these clusters of students into a single group for analysis may obscure underlying correlations. Chemistry educators should continue to target their teaching styles to cater to different learning styles and achievement levels of students, including cognitive and non-cognitive learning styles.

Summary: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is rapidly evolving, with emerging variants and fluctuating control policies. Real-time population screening and identification of groups in whom positivity is highest could help monitor spread and inform public health messaging and strategy. Methods: To develop a real-time screening process, we included results from nose and throat swabs and questionnaires taken 19 July 2020-17 July 2021 in the UK's national COVID-19 Infection Survey. Fortnightly, associations between SARS-CoV-2 positivity and 60 demographic and behavioural characteristics were estimated using logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders, considering multiple testing, collinearity, and reverse causality. Findings: Of 4,091,537 RT-PCR results from 482,677 individuals, 29,903 (0·73%) were positive. As positivity rose September-November 2020, rates were independently higher in younger ages, and those living in Northern England, major urban conurbations, more deprived areas, and larger households. Rates were also higher in those returning from abroad, and working in healthcare or outside of home. When positivity peaked December 2020-January 2021 (Alpha), high positivity shifted to southern geographical regions. With national vaccine roll-out from December 2020, positivity reduced in vaccinated individuals. Associations attenuated as rates decreased between February-May 2021. Rising positivity rates in June-July 2021 (Delta) were independently higher in younger, male, and unvaccinated groups. Few factors were consistently associated with positivity. 25/45 (56%) confirmed associations would have been detected later using 28-day rather than 14-day periods. Interpretation: Population-level demographic and behavioural surveillance can be a valuable tool in identifying the varying characteristics driving current SARS-CoV-2 positivity, allowing monitoring to inform public health policy. Funding: Department of Health and Social Care (UK), Welsh Government, Department of Health (on behalf of the Northern Ireland Government), Scottish Government, National Institute for Health Research.

Background: In Western societies, individuals are increasingly exposed to external stimuli and performance demands. Some individuals are more susceptible than others to both negative and positive environmental conditions. Specifically, high « sensory processing sensitivity » (SPS) can make it difficult to adjust to certain demands. Psychoactive substance use can sometimes be used as a means to reduce external stimulation, but to date there have been few community based studies on this topic. Methods: We used data from the 2018 French TEMPO based cohort study (n = 862 adults, 25–44 years) to study the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity and use of psychoactive substances including tobacco (regular use), alcohol (AUDIT), cannabis (CAST), and illicit drugs (lifetime use). To ascertain SPS, we used the 12-item Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) scale questionnaire. Data were analysed using logistic regression models adjusted on participants’ demographic characteristics, including gender, age, marital status, educational level, employment status, as well as juvenile history of externalizing problems in 1991 or 1999. Results: High SPS was observed among 14% of subjects. No association was observed between SPS and psychotropic use. Nevertheless, each additional point on the SPS score was associated with a 20% increase in the odds of alcohol abuse, which came close to statistical significance. Conclusions: In the community based TEMPO cohort study, we observed no association between SPS and psychotropic substance use among adults. Additional studies in younger samples would be of interest to test the role of this trait on the onset of substance-related difficulties.

Nebular-phase observations of peculiar Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) provide important constraints on progenitor scenarios and explosion dynamics for both these rare SNe and the more common, cosmologically useful SNe Ia. We present observations from an extensive ground- and space-based follow-up campaign to characterize SN 2022pul, a super-Chandrasekhar mass SN Ia (alternatively “03fg-like” SN), from before peak brightness to well into the nebular phase across optical to mid-infrared (MIR) wavelengths. The early rise of the light curve is atypical, exhibiting two distinct components, consistent with SN Ia ejecta interacting with dense carbon–oxygen (C/O)-rich circumstellar material (CSM). In the optical, SN 2022pul is most similar to SN 2012dn, having a low estimated peak luminosity ( M _B = −18.9 mag) and high photospheric velocity relative to other 03fg-like SNe. In the nebular phase, SN 2022pul adds to the increasing diversity of the 03fg-like subclass. From 168 to 336 days after peak B -band brightness, SN 2022pul exhibits asymmetric and narrow emission from [O i ] λ λ 6300, 6364 (FWHM ≈ 2000 km s ^−1 ), strong, broad emission from [Ca ii ] λ λ 7291, 7323 (FWHM ≈ 7300 km s ^−1 ), and a rapid Fe iii to Fe ii ionization change. Finally, we present the first ever optical-to-MIR nebular spectrum of an 03fg-like SN Ia using data from JWST. In the MIR, strong lines of neon and argon, weak emission from stable nickel, and strong thermal dust emission (with T ≈ 500 K), combined with prominent [O i ] in the optical, suggest that SN 2022pul was produced by a white dwarf merger within C/O-rich CSM.

We present observations of SN 2022joj, a peculiar Type Ia supernova discovered by the Zwicky Transient Facility. SN 2022joj exhibits an unusually red g _ZTF − r _ZTF color at early times and a rapid blueward evolution afterward. Around maximum brightness, SN 2022joj shows a high luminosity ( ${M}_{{g}_{\mathrm{ZTF}},\max }\simeq -19.7$ mag), a blue broadband color ( g _ZTF − r _ZTF ≃ −0.2 mag), and shallow Si ii absorption lines, consistent with those of overluminous, SN 1991T-like events. The maximum-light spectrum also shows prominent absorption around 4200 Å, which resembles the Ti ii features in subluminous, SN 1991bg-like events. Despite the blue optical-band colors, SN 2022joj exhibits extremely red ultraviolet minus optical colors at maximum luminosity ( u − v ≃ 0.6 mag and uvw 1 − v ≃ 2.5 mag), suggesting a suppression of flux at ∼2500–4000 Å. Strong C ii lines are also detected at peak. We show that these unusual spectroscopic properties are broadly consistent with the helium-shell double detonation of a sub-Chandrasekhar mass ( M ≃ 1 M _⊙ ) carbon/oxygen white dwarf from a relatively massive helium shell ( M _s ≃ 0.04–0.1 M _⊙ ), if observed along a line of sight roughly opposite to where the shell initially detonates. None of the existing models could quantitatively explain all the peculiarities observed in SN 2022joj. The low flux ratio of [Ni ii ] λ 7378 to [Fe ii ] λ 7155 emission in the late-time nebular spectra indicates a low yield of stable Ni isotopes, favoring a sub-Chandrasekhar mass progenitor. The significant blueshift measured in the [Fe ii ] λ 7155 line is also consistent with an asymmetric chemical distribution in the ejecta, as is predicted in double-detonation models.

Type Iax supernovae (SNe Iax) are the largest known class of peculiar white dwarf SNe, distinct from normal Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia). The unique properties of SNe Iax, especially their strong photospheric lines out to extremely late times, allow us to model their optical spectra and derive the physical parameters of the long-lasting photosphere. We present an extensive spectral timeseries, including 21 new spectra, of SN Iax 2014dt from +11 to +562 days after maximum light. We are able to reproduce the entire timeseries with a self-consistent, nearly unaltered deflagration explosion model from Fink et al. using TARDIS , an open source radiative-transfer code. We find that the photospheric velocity of SN 2014dt slows its evolution between +64 and +148 days, which closely overlaps the phase when we see SN 2014dt diverge from the normal spectral evolution of SNe Ia (+90 to +150 days). The photospheric velocity at these epochs, ∼400–1000 km s ^−1 , may demarcate a boundary within the ejecta below which the physics of SNe Iax and normal SNe Ia differ. Our results suggest that SN 2014dt is consistent with a weak deflagration explosion model that leaves behind a bound remnant and drives an optically thick, quasi-steady-state wind creating the photospheric lines at late times. The data also suggest that this wind may weaken at epochs past +450 days, perhaps indicating a radioactive power source that has decayed away.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most significant vegetable crops grown globally, especially in developing countries. Over the last few years, global potato production has been increasing. This growth has created many opportunities for developing a wide range of value-added products from these crops. However, this requires monitoring the quality components of the tubers, such as moisture content, starch content, and soluble solid content. In particular, moisture content is one of the key quality parameters important for ensuring quality control throughout the supply chain and processing for consumer consumption. Ideally, moisture content would be estimated at the field level; however, current methods used by the industry to assess moisture content are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and destructive. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility of hyperspectral imaging to quantify the moisture content of unpeeled potatoes before they were subsequently stored and processed. Hyperspectral images are collected from 47 intact potato tubers, with partial least squares regression (PLSR) models developed to predict moisture content from these spectra. The models showed predictive abilities for moisture content with acceptable ratios of prediction to deviation (RPDs) when considering the complete wavelength range (R2 = 0.53, RPD = 1.46, root mean square error (RMSE) = 5.04%) or the β-coefficient wavelength selection technique (R2 = 0.53, RPD = 1.47, RMSE = 5.02%). Furthermore, the prediction ability increased by more than 10% when the model wavelength was narrowed down to 733–970 nm. This study demonstrates the potential of using hyperspectral imaging for the quality assessment of intact, unpeeled potatoes, although further work is required to improve the model quality and implement this approach using remote sensing imagery.

A large variety of unique and distinct flora of Australia have developed exceptional survival methods and phytochemicals and hence may provide a significant avenue for new drug discovery. This study proposes a bioassay guided fractionation protocol that maybe robust and efficient in screening plants with potential bioactive properties and isolating lead novel compounds. Hence, five native Australian plants were selected for this screening process, namely Pittosporum angustifolium (Gumbi gumbi), Terminalia ferdinandiana (Kakadu plum, seeds (KPS), and flesh (KPF)), Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Tuckeroo, seeds (TKS) and flesh (TKF)), Podocarpus elatus (Illawarra plum, seeds (IPS) and flesh (IPF)) and Pleiogynium timoriense (Burdekin plum, seeds (BPS) and flesh (BPF)). The methanolic extracts of the plants samples were analysed for Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity measure by FRAP. The highest values were found in the KPF which were 12,442 ± 1355 mg GAE/ 100 g TPC and 16,670 ± 2275 mg TXE/100 g antioxidant capacity. Extracts of GGL was deemed to be most potent with complete cell inhibition in HeLa and HT29, and about 95% inhibition in HuH7 cells. Comparative activity was also seen for KPS extract, where more than 80% cell inhibition occurred in all tested cell lines. Dose-dependent studies showed higher SI values (0.72–1.02) in KPS extracts than GGL (0.5–0.73). Microbial assays of the crude extracts were also performed against five bacterial strains commonly associated with causing food poisoning diseases were selected (Gram positive—Staphylococcus aureus and Gram negative—Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria). KPF extracts were effective in suppressing microbial growth of all tested bacterial strains except for P. aeruginosa, while TKS and TKF were only slightly effective against S. aureus. Due to the potential of the GGL crude extract to completely inhibit the cells compared to KPS, it was further fractionated and tested against the cell lines. HPLC phenolic profiling of the crude extracts were performed, and numerous peak overlaps were evident in the fruit extracts. The KPF extracts demonstrated the strongest peaks which was coherent with the fact that it had the highest TPC and antioxidant capacity values. A high occurrence of t-ferulic acid in the GGL extracts was found which may explain the cytotoxic activity of GGL extracts. Peaks in KPS and KPF extracts were tentatively identified as gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and syringic acid and possibly ellagic acid. HPLC time-based fractionation of the GGL extract (F1–F5) was performed and Dose dependent cytotoxic effects were determined. It was construed that F1, having the highest SI value for HeLa, HT29 and HuH7 (1.60, 1.41 and 1.67, respectively) would be promising for further fractionation and isolation process.

This paper presents an analysis of modern methods used to determine antioxidant activity. According to research by the World Health Organization, the deficiency of such important nutrients as antioxidants leads to a decrease in body resistance and the development of chronic diseases. When it comes to diet, the inclusion of foods with a high content of antioxidants helps to increase life expectancy. As a result of this research, the mass concentration of phenolic substances and the antioxidant activity of phenolic antioxidants in young white and red table wine materials were determined using amperometric and chemiluminescent methods in order to determine antioxidant activity. Regression equations reflecting the relationship between the indicator of antioxidant activity and the value of the mass concentration of phenolic substances in young table wine materials were derived. The conversion coefficient for determining the mass concentration of phenolic substances when using Trolox-C and gallic acid as standards was established, which was—3.75. Based on a multiple linear regression model, the total antioxidant activity of the samples (F9.5 = 19.10 and p = 0.0023) can be fairly accurately predicted with an R2 of 0.921 for the calibration data set. A neural network regression model (NNRM) was chosen for the machine-learning regression analysis of the antioxidant activity of the wine samples due to its effectiveness in predicting outcomes in various applications. The implementation was performed using the fitrnet function provided in the Statistics and Machine Learning Toolbox in MATLAB R2021b. The MSE of the calibration model was 0.056; however, the MSE for the three validation samples was much higher, at 0.272.

RAS-like (RAL) GTPases function in Wnt signalling-dependent intestinal stem cell proliferation and regeneration. Whether RAL proteins work as canonical RAS effectors in the intestine and the mechanisms of how they contribute to tumourigenesis remain unclear. Here, we show that RAL GTPases are necessary and sufficient to activate EGFR/MAPK signalling in the intestine, via induction of EGFR internalisation. Knocking down Drosophila RalA from intestinal stem and progenitor cells leads to increased levels of plasma membrane-associated EGFR and decreased MAPK pathway activation. Importantly, in addition to influencing stem cell proliferation during damage-induced intestinal regeneration, this role of RAL GTPases impacts on EGFR-dependent tumourigenic growth in the intestine and in human mammary epithelium. However, the effect of oncogenic RAS in the intestine is independent from RAL function. Altogether, our results reveal previously unrecognised cellular and molecular contexts where RAL GTPases become essential mediators of adult tissue homeostasis and malignant transformation.

Connected objects to the Internet (computers, sensors, smartphones, and smart watches) are the part of daily life and their interconnection performs the Internet of Things (IoT) vision. IoT solutions are used in various domains, such as healthcare, industry, agriculture, and cities. IoT networks are often characterized by resource-constrained devices and sometimes deployed in hard to reach areas. In addition, an IoT network landscape may include a large number of heterogeneous devices. All these factors drive the need for adapted management solutions for IoT devices and networks. In order to guarantee the better use of IoT networks, effective and automatic management is necessary. This paper studies different solutions for IoT networks and devices management identifying their characteristics and technical challenges. Important requirements like security, context-aware, and a standard model for messages exchange have not been completely explored. Thus, these most relevant features are used to propose and deploy a new IoT management platform with a friendly user's interface, called management for devices and networks in IoT (M4DN.IoT). The solution is evaluated, demonstrated, validated, and it is under use.

In the mobile era, more and more financial institutions are beginning to cooperate with financial technology companies to enhance services and attract customers. The emergence of 5G technology has provided new choices for financial institutions, and the impact of the 5G ecosystem on financial companies and mobile banking is self-evident. With its strong security and speed, 5G technology will greatly shorten the trading cycle and transaction delay, and the capital market will also usher in a revolution. 5G technology will bring more customers and market share to financial institutions and financial technology. In terms of financial technology innovation and application services, 5G will increase productivity and customer satisfaction. The financial services industry hopes that 5G will improve real-time mobile trading and high-frequency trading. Safety is the most critical of the financial sector, 84 percent of financial services executives pay more attention to the potential of 5G provides a more secure transactions. This paper studies financial technology to promote business innovation, reduce risks in the financial sector, and promote high-quality economic development. Relying on high-speed, large-bandwidth, low-latency mobile 5G networks, it is carried out in the backbone network technology evolution, computer room drone inspection, and cash box transportation path monitoring.

Routing protocols represent an important issue on the Internet of Things (IoT) scenarios since they are responsible for creating paths and forwarding data packets among the network nodes. In mobile IoT scenarios, the topology changes caused by the movement of nodes makes the work of routing protocols more difficult. Thus, the current IoT routing solutions tend to present strong limitations and a poor performance in these scenarios, generally requiring complex additional improvement to better support the mobility of the devices. In this context, the Lightweight On-demand Ad hoc Distance-vector Routing Protocol - Next Generation (LOADng), is an emerging solution for IoT networks that despite being adequate for a mobile environment due to its reactive functioning still lacks in performance. Thus, this paper proposes a novel solution to enhance the performance of LOADng in mobile IoT networks. The improved version, LOADng-IoT-Mob, introduces a mechanism that permits nodes to be aware of the availability of their neighbors through the harnessing of control messages. As a result, these nodes can shorten paths and avoid sending data packets through broken routes due to the movement of the nodes. Additionally, a short periodical control message is introduced, allowing the nodes to update their routing table, even with a low control message frequency. Furthermore, a new routing metric is proposed for creating routes based on the reliability of the link and proximity of the neighboring nodes. Finally, through computational simulations, the performance of the LOADng-IoT-Mob is studied under multiple scenarios varying the network size, the number of mobile devices, and maximum nodes' speed. The results obtained demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed solution in terms of packet delivery ratio, latency, and power and overhead efficiency, with a slight increase in memory consumption.

Objective This study aims to advance understanding of globally valid versus country-specific quality dimensions and indicators, as perceived by relevant stakeholders. It specifically addresses patient-level indicators for cataract surgery.Design A mixed-methods case study comparing Singapore and The NetherlandsSetting Singapore (2017–2019) and The Netherlands (2014–2015).Participants Stakeholder representatives of cataract care in Singapore and The Netherlands.Intervention Based on the previously identified complete set of stakeholders in The Netherlands, we identified stakeholders of cataract care in Singapore. Stakeholder representatives then established a multi-stakeholder perspective on the quality of cataract care using a concept mapping approach. This yielded a multidimensional cluster map based on multivariate statistical analyses. Consensus-based quality dimensions were subsequently defined during a plenary session. Thereafter, Singaporean dimensions were matched with dimensions obtained in The Netherlands to identify commonalities and differences.Main outcome measure Health-services quality dimensions of cataract care.Results 19 Singaporean stakeholders representing patients, general practitioners, ophthalmologists, nurses, care providers, researchers and clinical auditors defined health-services quality of cataract care using the following eight dimensions: clinical outcome, patient outcomes, surgical process, surgical safety, patient experience, access, cost and standards of care. Compared with the Dutch results, 61% of the indicators were allocated to dimensions of comparable names and compositions. Considerable differences also existed in the composition of some dimensions and the importance attached to indicators.Conclusions and relevance This study on cataract care in Singapore and The Netherlands shows that cataract care quality measurement instruments can share a common international core. At the same time, it emphasises the importance of taking a country-specific multi-stakeholder approach to quality definition and measurement. Complementing an international core set with country-specific measures is required to ensure that the included dimensions and indicators adequately capture the country-specific quality views.

Dengue virus (DENV) causes a spectrum of diseases ranging from asymptomatic, mild febrile to a life-threatening illness: dengue hemorrhagic fever. The main clinical symptom of dengue is fever, similar to that of malaria. The prevalence of dengue virus infection, alone or in association with other endemic infectious diseases in children in Cameroon is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of dengue, malaria and HIV in children presenting with fever and associated risk factors. Dengue overall prevalence was 20.2%, Malaria cases were 52.7% and HIV cases represented 12.6%. The prevalence of dengue-HIV co-infection was 6.0% and that of Malaria-dengue co-infection was 19.5%. Triple infection prevalence was 4.3%. Dengue virus infection is present in children and HIV-Dengue or Dengue- Malaria co-infections are common. Dengue peak prevalence was between August and October. Sex and age were not associated with dengue and dengue co-infections. However, malaria as well as HIV were significantly associated with dengue (P = 0.001 and 0.028 respectively). The diagnosis of dengue and Malaria should be carried out routinely for better management of fever.

BackgroundThe outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic lead to high levels of morbidity and mortality around the globe. Consequences of this outbreak and possible associated infection are an increase in mental health disorders and an increased likelihood of internalizing problems, particularly depression. However, to date few studies have tested this hypothesis while taking into account individuals' preexisting mental health difficulties.MethodsWe used longitudinal data collected among 729 persons in the context of the French TEMPO cohort between March and June 2020 (7 waves of data collection). COVID-19-like symptoms as well as anxiety/depression (assessed by the Adult Self Report), were reported at each wave of data collection. To study the relationship between COVID-19-like symptoms and anxiety/depression, we used generalized estimation equation (GEE) models controlled for socio-demographic and health-related characteristics, including anxiety/depression prior to 2020.ResultsOverall, 27.2% of study participants reported anxiety/depression during lockdown. 17.1% of participants reported COVID-19-like symptoms during the course of follow-up, 7.3% after the beginning of lockdown, with an average number of 2.7 symptoms, and 3.6% reported respiratory distress. In multivariate analyses, nearly all the considered indicators of COVID-19-like symptoms were associated with higher odds of symptoms of anxiety/depression (symptoms Yes/No: OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.08-2.55; symptoms after the beginning of lockdown: OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.03-3.52; number of symptoms: OR for each additional symptom = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.02-1.39. This relationship exists after taking into account prior symptoms of anxiety/depression, which are associated with a 5-fold increased likelihood of psychological distress. And this impact is stronger among men than women.ConclusionsOur study shows higher risk of anxiety/depression among persons who experienced COVID-19-like symptoms, even after accounting for prior mental health difficulties. COVID-19 infection could have both a direct and indirect impact on the occurrence of psychological difficulties, and this association should be studied in greater detail.