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This study is aimed to investigate the effects of introducing dysprosium (Dy) into Zn-based hydroxyapatite (HAp) at various concentrations (0.45, 0.90, 1.35 and 1.80%). The structural and optical properties of pure and doped HAp were thoroughly examined through theoretical and empirical analyses, including X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) studies. The results confirmed the successful incorporation of Dy into the HAp lattice without significantly affecting its thermal stability or stoichiometry. The introduction of Dy into Zn-based HAp led to notable alterations in several material parameters. The lattice parameters, crystallinity, lattice stress, strain and anisotropic energy density varied with different Dy concentrations. In comparison with undoped HAp, all Dy-doped Zn-based HAps exhibited reduced crystallite size values, indicating a change in the microstructure. Furthermore, the material density increased from 3.159 to 3.228 g cm−3 with Dy doping. The band gap (BG), an important parameter for optical applications, is consistently decreased from 4.6 to 3.9 eV as the Dy concentration increased. This decrease in BG suggests the potential for improved photocatalytic or optoelectronic properties in Dy-doped Zn-based HAp. Additionally, the linear absorption coefficient (LAC) increased, indicating enhanced light absorption. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of structural and optical modifications induced by Dy doping in Zn-based HAp. These findings contribute to the potential application of Dy-doped Zn-based HAp in various fields, including biomedicine, photocatalysis and optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document calculates targeting performance indicators of electricity subsidies in Mexico, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay. To do this, beneficiary and benefit incidence indicators are calculated using official household survey data and administrative records on electricity tariffs. In addition, this paper calculates inclusion and exclusion errors in the targeting of electricity subsidies. The results show that the share of poor households that receive the subsidy is very large in Mexico, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. However, the distribution of the subsidy is regressive in absolute terms, which implies that most of every dollar spent on keeping electricity prices low will benefit the wealthiest households. This document also finds large inclusion errors suggesting that an important share of the non-poor is also benefiting from the subsidy. These results shed light on the evaluation of electricity subsidies in the region to improve targeting and optimisation of resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laccase (LAC) is a diverse group of genes found throughout the plant genome essential for plant growth and the response to stress by converting monolignin into intricate lignin formations. However, a comprehensive investigation of maize laccase has not yet been documented. A bioinformatics approach was utilized in this research to conduct a thorough examination of maize (Zea mays L.), resulting in the identification and categorization of 22 laccase genes (ZmLAC) into six subfamilies. The gene structure and motifs of each subgroup were largely consistent. The distribution of the 22 LAC genes was uneven among the maize chromosomes, with the exception of chromosome 9. The differentiation of the genes was based on fragment replication, and the differentiation time was about 33.37 million years ago. ZmLAC proteins are primarily acidic proteins. There are 18 cis-acting elements in the promoter sequences of the maize LAC gene family associated with growth and development, stress, hormones, light response, and stress response. The analysis of tissue-specific expression revealed a high expression of the maize LAC gene family prior to the V9 stage, with minimal expression at post-V9. Upon reviewing the RNA-seq information from the publicly available transcriptome, it was discovered that ZmLAC5, ZmLAC10, and ZmLAC17 exhibited significant expression levels when exposed to various biotic and abiotic stress factors, suggesting their crucial involvement in stress responses and potential value for further research. This study offers an understanding of the functions of the LAC genes in maize's response to biotic and abiotic stress, along with a theoretical basis for comprehending the molecular processes at play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lupus Anticoagulant (LAC) is a group of auto antiantibodies that interfere with phospholipid dependent tests like Activated Partial Thromboplastin time (APTT) and dilute Russell Viper venom time (dRVVT) on in vitro basis. LA, anti cardiolipin antibodies (aCL) IgG/IgM, and anti-β2 glycoprotein I antibodies [aβ2GPI]IgG/IgM are three diagnostic criteria for laboratory diagnosis of anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL). The circulating aPLs in the clinical setting of hypercoagulability state or adverse pregnancy outcomes is termed as anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). The laboratory diagnosis of APS is complicated, it includes constellation of tests like solid phase immunoassays for measurement of aCL and a β 2GPI by and coagulation based assays for detection of LAC. LAC diagnosis is especially challenging in the setting of anti-coagulation therapy, numerous modifications to circumvent this interference have rendered success. The Thrombin generation assays [TGA] for LAC detection and estimation of LAC pathogenicity are available but are yet to be accepted as routine laboratory tests. The medley of assays like Enzyme-linked immunosorbent and chemiluminescent assays are available for detection of aCL and aβ2GPI but due to the non-availability of universal calibrators and standards there is lack of harmonization between various solid phase assays. In this article we intend to highlight new recommendations of laboratory diagnosis of LAC with special emphasis on diagnosis in the setting of pregnancy and anti-coagulation. For risk assessment in APS other non-criteria aPL like as anti-domain β2 glycoprotein I and anti-phosphatidyl serine/prothrombin antibodies are under evaluation. There is an ongoing quest towards harmonization of detection of LAC, thus there has been succession of guidelines to meet the challenges and incorporate newly found knowledge every time, namely International Society for Thrombosis and Hematology- Scientific Standardization Committee (ISTH-SSC) guidelines, followed by British Committee for Standards in Hematology (BCSH), Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines 2014 and finally guidelines/updates issued by ISTH- SSC in 2018.

ABSTRACTPineapple leaf fiber is an environment-friendly natural fiber that does not harm any natural substance. To produce commercially available and attractive textile materials, pineapple leaf fibers were bleached with hydrogen peroxide and colored with natural dyes. Four natural dyes (turmeric powder, ebony fruit, lac, and sappan wood) were selected as natural sources for the extraction of natural colorants with and without salt, alum, and lime as mordants. The hydrogen peroxide concentration of 10 %owf, liquor ratio of 1:100, contact time of 30 min, and bleaching temperature of 70 °C were found to be the optimum bleaching parameters. The uses of different types of mordant on natural dyes give a variety of shades. The positive value of color axes (a* and b*) was an affirmation of mixture of red and yellow colors of mordanted-dyed PALF. PALF displayed a satisfactory dyeing performance for ebony fruit extracted dye with adequate fastness properties (from good to excellent) for light, wash, and perspiration, whether unmordanted or mordanted. Meta-mordanting increased the colorfastness properties of the samples. Results show excellent coloring ability for pineapple fiber dyeing, which can be a potential substitute for synthetic fiber as a sustainable approach to clean production.

Most traditional synthetic dyes and functional reagents used in silk fabrics are not biodegradable and lack green environmental protection. Natural dyes have attracted more and more attention because of their coloring, functionalization effects, and environmental benefits. In this study, natural dyes were extracted from lac and used for coloring and functionalization in silk fabrics without any other harmful dyes. The extraction conditions were studied and analyzed by the univariate method. The optimal extraction process was that the volume ratio of ethanol to water was 60:40 with a solid–liquid ratio of 1:10, and reacting under the neutrality condition for 1 h at 70 °C. Silk fabric can be dyed dark owing to the certain lifting property of lac. After being dyed by Al3+ post-medium, the levels of the washing fastness, light fastness, and friction fastness of silk fabric are all above four with excellent fastness. The results show that the dyed silk fabrics have good UV protection, antioxidation, and antibacterial properties. The UV protection coefficient UPF is 42.68, the antioxidant property is 98.57%, and the antibacterial property can reach more than 80%. Therefore, the dyeing and functionalization of silk fabrics by utilizing naturally lac dyes show broad prospects in terms of the application of green sustainable dyeing and functionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 10, this study probes whether quality institutions matter in the drive towards reducing income inequality through human capital. An unbalanced panel data on the Gini index (measure of income inequality), human capital index and institutional quality index drawn across 83 Latin America and sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries from 2010 to 2019 is used. For the most part, the consensus is that the interaction of human capital and quality institutions significantly reduces income inequality. For context, inequality reduces by −7.810 and −21.30 points for the full and SSA samples. Other findings reveal that the interaction effect is consistently negative at upper quantiles. Evidence from the margin plots reveals that the effect of human capital on inequality improves as institutional quality is strengthened. The downward trend of the plot within the 95% confidence interval shows that institutional quality enhances the impact of human capital on income inequality for the full sample and in SSA. This is a novel contribution to the literature as it suggests that quality institutions matter in the drive towards reducing the menace of income inequality. Policy recommendations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pericarp browning is the key factor for the extension of shelf life and the maintenance of the commercial value of harvested litchi fruit. Water loss is considered a leading factor of pericarp browning in litchi fruit. In this study, based on the distinct structure of litchi fruit, which is a special type of dry fruit with the aril as the edible part, the effects of water supply via pedicel (WSP) treatment on pericarp browning and the fruit quality of litchi were investigated. Compared with the packaging of the control fruit at 25 °C or 4 °C, the WSP treatment was found to significantly reduce pericarp browning and the decay of litchi fruit. The WSP-treated fruit had a higher L* value, total anthocyanin content, and pericarp water content, and the pericarp was thicker. The WSP treatment significantly suppressed the increase in the electrolyte leakage of the pericarp and maintained higher ascorbic acid (AA) contents in the aril. In addition, the WSP treatment was effective in reducing the activity and gene expression of browning-related genes Laccase (ADE/LAC) and Peroxidase (POD) during the storage period. In conclusion, the WSP treatment could be an effective method to delay pericarp browning and maintain the quality of harvested litchi fruit, and this further supports that litchi fruit has dry fruit characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Le concept de « frontière lacustre » pose de nombreuses questions quand il s'agit de prendre en compte la diversité des enjeux aquatiques face aux problématiques environnementales et politiques contemporaines. D'une logique de séparation, il faut penser coopération avec un élément aqueux qui se soustrait aux réalités terrestres de la frontière. Délimiter un objet lacustre, marqué par ses mouvements et sa profondeur, peut tout à fait se penser, même en cartographie. Par contre, une cartographie linéaire de la frontière peut avoir comme effet d'ancrer la représentation d'une limite forte, même quand elle peut être imperceptible dans la réalité. Il faut donc sortir des représentations classiques linéaires renforçant l'image d'une limite intangible, plus ou moins épaisse. Dans cet article, il est proposé d'utiliser l'outil de la cartographie mentale pour analyser le regard porté par les individus sur la réalité frontalière du lac Léman. Dans une volonté de proposer un regard géographique original, le public choisi est constitué de jeunes enfants (autour de 10 ans) qui ont participé à la croisière d'été « Eau'tour du Léman ». Cet événement, organisé par l'Association de sauvegarde du Léman, a permis de montrer la diversité des regards entre séparation politique et lieu commun à protéger.

Care planning for Looked After Children (LAC) is accepted as being critical in ensuring good outcomes for LAC, however, the available evidence base highlights that despite the introduction of key legislation across the UK, that care planning for LAC remains inconsistent. There is limited Northern Ireland (NI) specific research available that relates to care planning for LAC; with the care planning experience of LAC being referenced in the recent review of Children's services in NI, (Jones, R. (2023). The report of the independent review of Northern Ireland's children's social care services. .) which highlighted the variance in policies and procedures across the five Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland (NI), resulting in continued disparity in service delivery for children and families. The current, restricted evidence base for social work decision making in care planning, highlights practitioner's overreliance on practice wisdom rather than evidenced-based research, theory and/or service user knowledge. This mixed methods study focussed on increasing knowledge around decision making in care planning. A training package was developed and delivered to practitioners across children's services in one Trust area. A pre and post survey was completed with 74 practitioners in addition to 20 post training semi-structured interviews. The significant response rates and sample size offer validity and strength to the findings which correlate with previous studies completed across the UK that also conclude that research, theory and service user knowledge is not prominent in social worker's understanding of what informs their decision making in care planning for LAC. This information is valuable for practitioners and managers attached to social work in children's services. Recommendations include further embedding of a culture of learning and reflection to support the development of practitioner knowledge, skills and confidence; and to assist in the development of governance processes to audit the impact of practitioner training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since bentonite can absorb neutrons and gamma rays without sacrificing structural integrity, it is frequently used as the main shielding material in many nuclear installations. Recently, there has been a trend toward enhancing the shielding qualities of bentonite by adding various chemicals. However, the majority of the added materials either require particular handling procedures or pose health risks. The availability of environmentally friendly additives would be wonderful. The addition of barite to bentonite composites greatly raises the density of the specimens. Additionally, the performance of bentonite–barite composites as radiation shielding materials is improved by adding various amounts of bulk and nano Bi2O3 as a filler (6%, 13%, and 20%). Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) was used to determine the chemical makeup of the produced specimens. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) pictures showed the samples' cross-sections' porosity and homogeneity. 241Am, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co are radioactive sources that emit energies of 59.53, 80.99, 356.01, 661.66, 1173.23, and 1332.5 keV, respectively, and the NaI (Tl) scintillation detector was used in this investigation. The area under the peak of the observed energy spectra was measured using the Genie 2000 program in both the specimen's absence and presence. The coefficients for linear and mass attenuation were calculated. To determine the theoretical mass attenuation coefficients, the XCOM program was utilized and then compared to the corresponding experimental values. Various radiation shielding parameters dependent on the linear attenuation coefficient were computed for each studied composite. These parameters include the mean free path (MFP), half value layer (HVL), and tenth value layer (TVL). Also, the Zeff and the EABF were determined for each specimen. According to the findings, bismuth oxide was added to bentonite–barite composites to reduce the transmitted flux through the specimens, which increased the LAC of the bentonite–barite composites. Furthermore, adding nanosized bismuth oxide particles increased the sample's density and improved the material's shielding properties. At a photon energy of 0.356 keV, the relative deviation (∆%) between the experimental nano- and micro values for Bi2O3 (20 wt%) was 12.1974, confirming that the nanoparticles increase attenuation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most traditional synthetic dyes and functional reagents used in silk fabrics are not biodegradable and lack green environmental protection. Natural dyes have attracted more and more attention because of their coloring, functionalization effects, and environmental benefits. In this study, natural dyes were extracted from lac and used for coloring and functionalization in silk fabrics without any other harmful dyes. The extraction conditions were studied and analyzed by the univariate method. The optimal extraction process was that the volume ratio of ethanol to water was 60:40 with a solid–liquid ratio of 1:10, and reacting under the neutrality condition for 1 h at 70 °C. Silk fabric can be dyed dark owing to the certain lifting property of lac. After being dyed by Al3+ post-medium, the levels of the washing fastness, light fastness, and friction fastness of silk fabric are all above four with excellent fastness. The results show that the dyed silk fabrics have good UV protection, antioxidation, and antibacterial properties. The UV protection coefficient UPF is 42.68, the antioxidant property is 98.57%, and the antibacterial property can reach more than 80%. Therefore, the dyeing and functionalization of silk fabrics by utilizing naturally lac dyes show broad prospects in terms of the application of green sustainable dyeing and functionalization.

Notre article s’articule autour d’une réflexion sur les conflits d’usage de l’eau, un bien commun particulièrement précieux. L’accent est mis sur le lac de Caussade, bâti en 2019, pour lequel de multiples acteurs, agriculteurs, pouvoirs publics, associations écologistes se sont opposés lors de sa construction. À l’heure du conflit d’usage de l’eau très violent dans les Deux-Sèvres, nous avons voulu mettre en exergue la légalisation française et européenne en matière de lac collinaire et pris le cas du Lac de Caussade, situé dans le Lot-et-Garonne, un lac bâti illégalement par des agriculteurs. Au-delà de ce conflit finalement extrêmement local, ce sont des questionnements sur la place de l’eau en tant que bien commun et des nouveaux conflits d’usage entourant cette denrée de plus en plus rare et précieuse que cet article sous-tend.

Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) is a common malignancy worldwide. Emerging findings indicated that circular RNAs possess complex capacities of gene modulation in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Nevertheless, the role of circular RNA in LAC is still largely unknown. Materials and Methods: The level of circular RNA cMras (circ_cMras), alpha-beta hydrolase domain 5 (ABHD5), and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. Protein levels of ABHD5, ATGL, p53, p65, and phospho-p65 (p-p65) were examined by Western blot. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) was used to detect cell proliferation in vitro. Cell apoptosis was estimated using flow cytometry. Transwell assay was used to measure cell migration and invasion in A549 and HCC827 cells. Finally, the role of circ_cMras was explored using xenograft tumor model. Results: Low levels of circ_cMras, ABHD5, and ATGL were observed in LAC tissues and cells. Upregulation of circ_cMras could hamper tumor aggression in vitro and in vivo, exhibiting as the inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and promotion of cell apoptosis, as well as the inhibition on tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, ABHD5 deletion could overturn the effects of circ_cMras overexpression on cell behaviors in LAC cells. Furthermore, the inhibiting effects of ABHD5 on cell aggression were reversed by ATGL deficiency in vitro. Mechanically, circ_cMras/ABHD5/ATGL axis exerted its role through NF-κB signaling pathway in LAC cells. Conclusion: Circ_cMras exerted its function through ABHD5/ATGL axis using NF-κB signaling pathway in LAC, which might provide a novel insight for the diagnosis and prognosis of LAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This quantitative study explores the acceptability of Online Learning Action Cell (LAC) practice as a school-based professional development strategy for Tagumpay National High School (TNHS) teachers. The research was motivated by the Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 35 s. 2016 which prompts public schools to comply with the implementation of LAC sessions because it has a positive impact on teachers' beliefs and practices resulting in education reforms for learners' benefit. However, in compliance with DepEd's policy on maximizing Time-On-Task (DepEd Order No. 9 s. 2005) and the teacher's conflict of schedule and other ancillary and coordination functions, absences or non-participation in classroom LAC was noted. The viability of offering Online LAC sessions using appropriate media and technologies to provide more options and flexibility for the study is suggested and tested utilizing a conceptual framework drawn from DepEd Order No. 35 s. 2016, Simonson's Equivalency Theory and Anderson's Community of Inquiry (COI). A descriptive survey method was used in this study with purposive sampling identifying ten Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) teachers to pilot the Online LAC based on the memorandum issued by the school head. The subjects went through a week of experience in a LAC session using Facebook (FB) as Learning Management System (LMS) while a researcher-designed survey tool in the form of a Likert-type scale questionnaire was administered via Google forms before and after the online session to measure teacher's acceptability of Online LAC Session practice. In the analysis, a descriptive statistic shows that pre-post survey results on Online LAC session planning is from 'moderately acceptable' to 'very highly acceptable'; implementation is from 'acceptable' to 'very highly acceptable', and evaluation is from 'moderately acceptable' to 'very highly acceptable'. TNHS teachers' acceptability of Online LAC session practice increases after their participation in a fully-online learning environment. Limitations, recommendations, future research directions, and conclusions are also included in the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, Eu3+-doped zinc fluoro-telluroborate transparent glasses were prepared by the conventional melt−quench technique. Their density and refractive index values were measured, and using these values, different physical parameters (number density, oxygen packing density, no. of bonds/vol, etc.) were calculated and analysed. The XRD pattern displayed a disordered atomic arrangement in the glass network. The EDS spectra proved the purity of the samples exhibiting only those elements used during the synthesis. The good solubility of Eu3+ ions in zinc fluoro-telluroborate glasses was analysed through fine absorption peaks in the UV−Vis−NIR range. The absorption intensities increased in all samples up to 3.0 mol% of Eu3+-doping concentration. The stabilities of the samples, such as ∆T ~ (144–156) °C and Hr ~ 2.33–4.00, calculated using characteristic temperatures (Tg, Tx, Tc, Tm) from DSC studies exhibited their promising candidature in a high-temperature environment. The Eu7 (Eu3+ with 3.0 mol%) glass confirmed better attenuation properties (LAC, Zeff, HVL, MFP) compared to other composition (0–2.5 mol%) glasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) in Los Angeles County (LAC), corner store conversions (CSCs) were an integral part of a broader, more coordinated effort to improve nutrition and to prevent obesity in low-income populations. To date, little is known about this experience in LAC. The present study addresses this gap by describing lessons learned from implementing the SNAP-Ed Small Corner Store Project (SCSP) in this region. The project, which began in 2013, sought to scale CSCs in underserved communities of LAC, employing behavioral economics (e.g., prominently displaying healthy foods at checkout aisles or using in-store signage to promote healthy options) to encourage patron selection of healthier food items. Results from an assessment of the SCSP suggest that for CSCs to do well, careful considerations should be given to factors such as time (e.g., amount of staff time dedicated to the effort), staff capacity (e.g., # staff available to assist), and available resources that can be leveraged (e.g., support from community-based organizations). For some stores, inadequate food distribution or a lack of capital improvement infrastructure (e.g., refrigeration for fresh produce/storage of excess food that can be repurposed) were key barriers that required additional funding. Although local efforts that incentivize small businesses to undergo CSCs may initially nudge store owners to participate, increasing overall consumer demand for healthier food products (i.e., so as to help maintain sales volume) remains a key to sustaining store conversions long after SNAP-Ed resources are gone.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) launched the Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention (NEOP) Project in fall 2013. As the local arm of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed), this project partnered with faith-based organizations (FBOs) in Los Angeles County to implement policy, systems, and environmental change interventions (PSEs) at selected church sites, alongside the usual delivery of health education. A 2-part programmatic assessment was conducted to better understand how the NEOP Faith Based Project at one of the FBOs was implemented during the 2013-2016 SNAP-Ed funding cycle. A qualitative component (key informant interviews) sought to understand and describe the PSE implementation process at each of the participating church sites, whereas the quantitative component (surveys) focused on assessing congregant perceptions about their awareness of the PSEs, their knowledge and beliefs about health, and their self-reported health behaviors after exposure to onsite changes. Among congregants who participated in the survey, 52% expressed desire for more health education classes. However, only 37% reported being aware of them at church sites that hosted them. When asked to compare their behaviors for "today" versus 6 months ago, more than half reported greater interest in eating more fruits and vegetables (66%), choosing water over soda (69%), and becoming more physically active (59%). Results from the NEOP Project have implications for how local health departments could partner with FBOs to outreach and promote health among congregants, particularly for those who are at high-risk of diet-related diseases due to poor nutrition and obesity.

Baozhong Yu, Maolin Chen, Ye Zhang, Yudan Cao, Jun Yang, Bing Wei, Junyu Wang Emergency Medicine Clinical Research Center, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, & Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiopulmonary Cerebral Resuscitation, Clinical Center for Medicine in Acute Infection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Bing Wei; Junyu Wang, Emergency Medicine Clinical Research Center, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, & Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiopulmonary Cerebral Resuscitation, Clinical Center for Medicine in Acute Infection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, People’s Republic of China, Email dr_weibing@126.com; wangjunyu_cyyy@126.comPurpose: The objective of this study was to explore the diagnostic and prognostic value of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in sepsis patients presenting to the emergency department.Patients and Methods: A total of 128 patients who visited the emergency department of West Hospital of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, affiliated to Capital Medical University, from November 2021 to February 2022 were subjected to this study. According to Sepsis-3.0 diagnostic criteria for sepsis, patients were divided into non-sepsis group (65 cases) and sepsis group (63 cases). Demographic data and clinical characteristics of the two patient groups were compared. Serum levels of biomarkers including IL-6, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and lactic acid (Lac) were compared with Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores. Logistic regression was used to analyze independent risk factors and Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC) method was used to analyze the Area Under the Curve (AUC) to determine the diagnostic and prognostic value of markers.Results: Compared with non-sepsis patients, levels of IL-6, PCT, CRP and BUN were significantly higher in sepsis patients (10.84 (4.41– 27.01): 92.22 (21.53– 201.12), 0.03 (0.01– 0.1):0.49 (0.08– 3.1), 8.3 (0.5– 31.8):39.8(10.3– 98.6), 7.01 (4.90– 11.74):13.03 (6.93– 25.99), all p = 0.001). IL-6, BUN and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were independent risk factors for sepsis diagnosis. AUC values of IL-6, BUN, MAP and IL-6+BUN+MAP were 0.764, 0.696, 0.685, and 0.848, respectively. Lactate, age and SOFA score were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality in sepsis patients. The AUC of Lac, age, SOFA score and Lac+age+SOFA score to predict 28-day death in sepsis patients was 0.679, 0.626, 0.747, and 0.819, respectively.Conclusion: IL-6 is an independent predictor of sepsis diagnosis, and the combination of blood BUN and MAP has superior diagnostic performance. Lac, age, and SOFA score could effectively predict clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis.Keywords: interleukin-6, emergency department, Lac, sepsis, SOFA score, mortality

In this study, natural dyeing studies using turmeric and lac were conducted to test their respective utility as yellow and red dye in 3D-printed thermoplastic polyurethane material. For this purpose, turmeric and lac were first extracted with distilled water to analyze their color characteristics. Next, the extracted turmeric and lac dyes were dyed in 3D-printed thermoplastic polyurethane material under different dyeing conditions to examine their dyeability. The dyed thermoplastic polyurethane material was also investigated in terms of its color fastness to sunlight, washing, and rubbing. The experimental results confirmed that the turmeric extract was composed of three mixtures of dimethoxycurcumin, bis-dimethoxycurcumin, and curcumin, and that the lac extract was composed of two components: laccaic acids A and laccaic acids C. Thermoplastic polyurethane material dyed with turmeric dye showed Y-series, while thermoplastic polyurethane material dyed with Lac dye showed YR-series. Both dyes showed the Lamgmuir-type isothermal adsorption curve in which the amount of dyeing no longer increased beyond a certain level of initial dye concentration and dyeing time. Under the experimental conditions of this study, in the case of turmeric dye, the optimum dyeing conditions were determined to be 20% concentration, 60 °C temperature, and 20 min. Meanwhile, the optimal dyeing conditions for lac dye were determined to be 60% concentration, 90 °C temperature, and 30 min. Thermoplastic polyurethane material was dyed under each optimal dyeing condition, and as a result of measuring the light fastness, washing fastness, and rubbing fastness of the resulting material, relatively high color fastness was obtained. The results showed that a high dyeing amount and color fastness were obtained solely using natural dyes without any synthetic dyes, thus showing the potential usage of these natural dyes in actual production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was conducted to test the effect of different growing media on Schleichera oleosa seeds. The experiment was carried out at the Forest Tree Laboratory, Dehradun, Uttarakhand during 2019-20. The seeds of S oleosa were collected from 10 healthy mature trees during the last week of July to first week of August. The seeds were extracted manually and their initial viability, moisture content and germination were tested in the laboratory. As the seeds of S oleosa were dormant during the collection, the seeds were kept for after-ripening at 16 per cent intact moisture content at 25°C for 60 days. Fully after-ripened seeds were sown inside the polyhouse in leveled beds prepared from six different growing media viz soil, sand, soil + sand (1:1), soil + sand + FYM (1:1:1), soil + sand + FYM (1:2:1) and soil + sand + FYM (2:1:1). The seed sowing was done at 2 to 3 cm depth in the month of March. The seed germination was recorded from 2nd week onward and the germination, seedling height and collar diameter were measured after 60 days and vigour index was calculated. The seedlings were transplanted in the polythene bags of 6'' x 8'' size filled with same growing media. The seedling height and collar diameter were measured two times, after 3 and 30 months of sowing. The results revealed that maximum germination (60%) and vigour index (1,533.74) were recorded in soil + sand + FYM (1:1:1) media, which were significantly higher than other growing media. After 3 months of sowing, maximum seedling height (32.94 cm) was recorded in soil + sand + FYM (1:1:1) which was significantly higher than other growing media. However, the effect of all the growing media on collar diameter was statistically non-significant. At the end of the experiment after 30 months of sowing, maximum seedling height (100.47 cm) and collar diameter (22.41 cm) were recorded in soil + sand + FYM (1:1:1) media, which was significantly higher than the only soil and only sand media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the present industrial world, the risk of radioactivity is notably increasing. Thus, an appropriate shielding material needs to be designed to protect humans and the environment against radiation. In view of this, the present study aims to design new composites of the main matrix of bentonite–gypsum with a low-cost, abundant, and natural matrix. This main matrix was intercalated in various amounts with micro- and nanosized particles of bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) as the filler. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) recognized the chemical composition of the prepared specimen. The morphology of the bentonite–gypsum specimen was tested using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images showed the uniformity and porosity of a cross-section of samples. The NaI (Tl) scintillation detector was used with four radioactive sources (241Am, 137Cs, 133Ba, and 60Co) of various photon energies. Genie 2000 software was used to determine the area under the peak of the energy spectrum observed in the presence and absence of each specimen. Then, the linear and mass attenuation coefficients were obtained. After comparing the experimental results of the mass attenuation coefficient with the theoretical values from XCOM software, it was found that the experimental results were valid. The radiation shielding parameters were computed, including the mass attenuation coefficients (MAC), half-value layer (HVL), tenth-value layer (TVL), and mean free path (MFP), which are dependent on the linear attenuation coefficient. In addition, the effective atomic number and buildup factors were calculated. The results of all of these parameters provided the same conclusion, which confirms the improvement of the properties of γ-ray shielding materials using a mixture of bentonite and gypsum as the main matrix, which is much better than using bentonite alone. Moreover, bentonite mixed with gypsum is a more economical means of production. Therefore, the investigated bentonite–gypsum materials have potential uses in applications such as gamma-ray shielding materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, potential usage of boron carbide (B4C) in nuclear technology has been emphasized. B4C is the base material for control rods used to control the fission rate in nuclear reactors. The high neutron absorption capacity of B4C material makes it very useful for nuclear applications. In order to examine B4C to be used in nuclear technology, the values of mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) and linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), half and tenth value layers (HVL, TVL) and mean free path (MFP) values were analyzed with open access Photon Protection and Dosimetry (PSD) software. The clad materials considered for the study are hafnium (Hf), indium (In), silver (Ag), cadmium (Cd) and B4C. Analyzes were made in the energy range between 1 MeV and 15 MeV. In conclusion, when MeV was reached, the MAC value was found as 0.053 cm²/g for Hf and 0.015 cm²/g for B4C. Moreover, while the HVL value was 1 cm for Hf, it was determined as 17 cm for B4C at 15 MeV. The obtained results were compared with the literature and it was seen that they were compatible with the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the California Department of Public Health has been delivering nutrition education for nearly two decades, the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) resources to advance policy, systems, and environmental change interventions (PSEs) to prevent obesity has been relatively recent. To date, most efforts to couple PSEs to conventional nutrition education have not been well-studied and as such, their lessons have not been used extensively in local planning. This special issue seeks to close this gap by sharing lessons from the planning and implementation of these efforts in Los Angeles County during the 2013-2016 SNAP-Ed funding cycle. It comprises a collection of six articles that recount key experiences from this work in the field.

Categorization of terms/concepts/constructs that allows for better understanding and comparison of public health interventions is often lacking in program implementation and evaluation. A classification system such as a lexicon, when used appropriately, can help address this need. The present narrative describes a lexicon of policy, systems, and environmental change strategies (PSEs) that was developed and prototyped to aid local implementation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) interventions in obesity prevention. The lexicon was reviewed and refined by a panel of experts who provided iterative feedback on the system's scope and utility. To develop the lexicon, a team from the local health department: (i) conducted an inventory (community context scan) of SNAP-Ed PSEs implemented in Los Angeles County during 2010-2015; (ii) assessed commonalities among PSEs that were translated into "index factors" to contextualize terms/concepts/constructs relevant to SNAP-Ed services planning; and (iii) convened a panel of experts to review and test the classification system for quality and usability. In the latter activity, the panel reviewed the terms/concepts/constructs within the context of two geographical areas and by the selected PSEs. The final version of the lexicon organized the terms/concepts/constructs of the local SNAP-Ed PSEs into overarching categories, so they can be compared/assessed by type, content, and/or impact. The goal of the project was to create a classification system that can help facilitate meaningful communications among program implementers, evaluators, and community stakeholders. The lexicon has practical implications and potential applications for other jurisdictions interested in reducing obesity rates through SNAP-Ed PSEs.

Objective: To explore the expression of serum lactate (Lac), D-dimer (D-D), soluble thrombomodulin (s TM) and endothelium-specific molecule-1 (ESM-1) in patients with sepsis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and to investigate their clinical significance. Methods: 375 patients with sepsis related ARDS who were treated in the intensive medicine department of the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from January 2020 to January 2022 were selected, they were divided into mild group (n=96), moderate group (n=152) and severe group (n=127) according to the difference of oxygenation index (OI) at admission. The levels of serum lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 in each group were compared. The correlation between serum lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 and OI was analyzed by Spearman correlation coefficient. According to the prognosis within 28 d, the patients were divided into death group (n=137) and survival group (n=238). The clinical data were collected. The prognostic factors of sepsis related ARDS patients were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. The predictive value of serum lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 on the poor prognosis of patients with sepsis related ARDS was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: The levels of serum lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 in mild group, moderate group and severe group increased successively (P＜0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that the levels of serum lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 in patients with sepsis related ARDS were negatively correlated with OI (P＜0.05). The age of death group was older than that of survival group, the proportion of septic shock, ICU stay time ≥10 d, mechanical ventilation time ≥3 d, SOFA score, serum lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 were higher than those of survival group, and OI was lower than that of survival group (P＜0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that septic shock, SOFA score ≥13 and high levels of serum lac, D-D, STM and ESM-1 were the risk factors of poor prognosis in patients with sepsis related ARDS, while high OI was the protective factor of poor prognosis (P＜0.05). The results of ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC of the combined detection of serum lac, D-D, STM and ESM-1 in predicting the poor prognosis of patients with sepsis related ARDS was 0.907, which was significantly higher than that of 0.785, 0.747, 0.796 and 0.789. Conclusion: Serum Lac, D-D, s TM and ESM-1 levels are closely associated with the severity of disease and poor prognosis in SAARDS patients and can be used as predictors of poor prognosis in sepsis-associated ARDS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hundreds of millions of children are losing learning opportunities, resulting in potentially large losses in their lifetime education, health, income, and productivity. Losses in longterm earnings from preprimary program closures due to COVID-19 can be unprecedented. Acute effects are plausible for such disruptions early in life when brains are rapidly developing and are very sensitive to environmental changes. This study briefly reviews existing literature related to the effects of preprimary programs and builds on this literature to present the first simulations of the long-run earnings losses--when current preschool-age children become adults--due to COVID-19 related preprimary-program closures in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The simulations are available for 26 LAC countries, representing varied contexts in terms of pre-pandemic preprimaryparticipation rates, income levels, and demographic indicators. Our results suggest that the present discounted value of lifetime losses is considerable, up to 4 percent of current annual GDPs. Timely policies, such as the implementation of remedial strategies, are needed to mitigate the effects of preprimary-program closures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study investigated the application of soft computing models [Artificial neural network (ANN) and Adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS)] in removing heavy metals [chromium (VI), vanadium (V) and iron (II)] from textile wastewater using Luffa cylindrica activated carbon (LAC). The effect of pH, contact time and adsorbent dosage on the adsorptive potential of the prepared LAC were determined using a batch mode experiment. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and scanning electron micrograph assessed the potential of the adsorbent in this study. ANN and ANFIS were evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R 2) and mean square error (MSE). The result showed that the models demonstrated significant predictive behavior with R 2 (9.9999E−1), MSE (5.985E−14) for chromium(VI) removal, R 2 (9.9999E−1), MSE (2.33856E−13) for iron(II) removal and R 2 (9.9999E−1), MSE (7.22197E−12) for vanadium(V) removal for ANN, while ANFIS predicted R 2 (0.76305), MSE (0.037105) for chromium(VI) removal, R 2 (0.67652), MSE (0.846) for iron(II) removal, R 2 (0.22673), MSE (0.65925) for vanadium(V) removal. Sensitivity analysis carried out with ANFIS (exhaustive search) indicated that the parameters (time, pH and adsorbent dosage) significantly impact the heavy metal removal. Thus, this study shows that ANN and ANFIS are reliable tools for modelling heavy metal removal using LAC. The parameter results obtained are relevant in process design and control.

The degradation of lignin cannot only reduce the impact of lignin pollutants on the environment, but it can also help to realize the efficient utilization of biomass resources. Obtaining the efficient lignin-degrading strain is necessary for the application of lignin biological degradation treatment. In this study, a novel lignin-degrading strain M01-L2 was isolated from a forest park in eastern China. The sequencing results showed that the M01-L2 strain was Burkholderia sp. H801. The kraft lignin degradation experiments showed that the lignin degradation efficiency of M01-L2 reached 49.8 % on the sixth day with the initial lignin concentration of 1 g L–1. This degradation process was carried out in the medium with lignin as the only carbon source. The lignin degradation process by M01-L2 strain mainly depended on the action of Lac and MnP enzymes. The MnP activity was maintained at a high level and increased significantly in the first four days, and the maximum value was 1544.4 U L–1. Lac enzyme activity increased significantly from the third day to the sixth day, reaching 757.9 U L–1 on the sixth day. This study can provide a new method for bacterial degradation of lignin.

L’hydro-acoustique est une méthode non intrusive d’échantillonnage des populations de poissons en écosystèmes lacustres qui permet d’estimer leur abondance et d’étudier leurs relations avec l’écosystème. Elle fait partie des procédures d’échantillonnage potentiellement utilisables pour les programmes de surveillance de la directive cadre sur l’eau (DCE) et est normalisée (CEN 2014). À l’heure où l’utilisation de ces méthodes s’intensifient, i) des avancées méthodologiques, ii) le développement d’un engin autonome (HARLE : Hydro-acoustic Autonomous boat for Remote fish detection in LakE) et iii) la réponse à des enjeux scientifiques et de gestion portées par l’UMR CARRTEL en partenariat avec l’OFB puis au sein du Pôle ECLA (ECosystèmes LAcustres – OFB-INRAE-USMB), sont autant de pistes pour améliorer le déploiement de cet outil à des fins opérationnelles. Les travaux méthodologiques ont notamment permis de préciser la mise en œuvre de cette méthode en milieu lacustre afin de pouvoir amender la norme européenne. Le HARLE a été déployé sur plusieurs sites et plusieurs projets ont utilisé les données acoustiques générées afin de répondre à des enjeux de gestion ou des questions d’écologie.

Malgré les nombreux usages dont ils font l’objet et leur rôle avéré pour la biodiversité aquatique et terrestre, les plans d’eau et les estuaires français ont été historiquement peu étudiés, et leur état écologique peu renseigné. L’évaluation et le suivi de leur qualité écologique dans le cadre de la directive cadre européenne sur l’eau ont relevé d’un véritable challenge dans les années 2000. Aujourd’hui, l’acquisition de données de qualité au cours des deux dernières décennies et l’arrivée de nouvelles méthodes de surveillance, comme la télédétection spatiale ou le recours à l’ADN environnemental, laissent présager de nouvelles perspectives de suivi de ces précieux écosystèmes.

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Key message: Two members of the 48 laccase genes were highly expressed in peach endocarp and activated by the lignin biosynthesis-related MYB transcription factors, suggesting a role of them in lignification. Peach (P. persica) is an economically important fruit tree. Peach breeds drupe fruits with its seeds encased in an extremely hard lignified endocarp or stone. Laccases (LACs) are copper-containing glycoproteins that are involved in cell elongation processes and widely distributed in plant genomes. LACs are essential for lignin polymerization because laccase is the key enzyme responsible for monolignol polymerization. At present, the research on peach laccase is blank, and the members that play important roles in the polymerization of peach lignin are even unknown. In this study, we identified 48 laccase genes (PpLACs) in the peach genome. All 48 peach laccase genes were unevenly distributed on eight chromosomes and divided into six different phylogenetic groups (I–VI). Among them, 15 were predicted to be potential targets of miR397, a negative regulator of lignin biosynthesis. Phylogenetic analysis, sequence analysis and spatiotemporal expression profile analysis indicated that PpLAC7, 19, 20, 21, 27, 28 and 30 may be related to lignin synthesis and endocarp hardness in fruit. Through expression pattern analysis, PpLAC20 and PpLAC30 were finally screened as most likely important members involved in peach lignin biosynthesis. A peach MYB transcription factor PpMYB63, a homolog of AtMYB58 and AtMYB63, demonstrated the ability to activate the PpLAC20 and PpLAC30 promoters. Moreover, histochemical staining analysis of GUS activity in proPpLAC20::GUS transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings showed the tissue-specific expression pattern in limited tissues or organs, including siliques, inflorescence stems, cauline leaf main veins, and the outer coat of the seed. Our findings revealed that PpLAC20 and PpLAC30 are candidates involved in peach lignin biosynthesis and laid the foundation for subsequent researches on peach lignin synthesis and regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shahnamah (RAS 239) copied for the Timurid prince, Muhammad Juki (1402–1445) in Herat, has long been considered one of the finest surviving, illustrated Timurid manuscripts. It was presented to the RAS in 1834 by Lieutenant Colonel Doyle (1787–1848), but attracted little scholarly attention until Barbara Brend published her monograph in 2010. The manuscript contains 31 exquisite miniature paintings, two of which (fol. 430v and fol. 531r) were added later during the Mughal period (1526–1761). This article will examine the sumptuous, jewel-like colours employed to depict scenes from the epic and the metals, pigments, and dyes from which they were derived. Precious metals and organic colours made from plants such as indigo and lac extracted from female insects are examined in detail: the methods of their production and extraction, the techniques used for their application, their commercial value, and the prestige they afforded their patrons all contribute to an understanding of what constituted the miniature painters' palette in the Timurid period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]