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The objective was to investigate the effects of auditory environments on postural balance during cognitive tasks. Nineteen individuals with intellectual disabilities, aged between 15 and 19, participated in the study. The assessment involved center of pressure (CoP) measurements on both firm and foam surfaces under open-eye (OE) and closed-eye (CE) conditions. During these assessments, participants were exposed to nature sounds and noise sounds while performing counting and verbal fluency tasks. The results showed that nature sounds on a firm surface under OE conditions during counting demonstrated a significant decrease in CoP values (p = 0.037), indicating improved postural balance. However, noise sounds on foam surfaces during counting and verbal fluency showed increased CoP values, reflecting impaired postural balance (p < 0.05). In conclusion, nature sounds on a firm surface with OE during counting improved postural balance. Conversely, noise sounds on foam surfaces during counting and verbal fluency tasks impaired postural balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper analyzes the complex interaction between testimony and individual perception, highlighting inequalities and inhomogeneities of social environments that influence witnesses' capacities and motivations. Witness statements, a fundamental tool of evidence, are examined in the context of the judicial process, where the main objective is to discover the truth. The importance of removing barriers that can distort information is emphasized, including the use of appropriate psychological tactics and methods in interrogations. Throughout history, the value of testimony has been the subject of debate, being recognized as relative and susceptible to errors and subjective influences. Psychologists and lawyers have investigated the phenomenon of memory and recognition, highlighting its fragility and the influence of contextual factors. Currently, the evaluation of testimony involves careful consideration of the sincerity and veracity of witnesses, in the context in which they may be affected by stress, pressure or other external influences. In addition, the paper examines the phenomenon of perjury, highlighting its social and legal implications. In conclusion, understanding the relativity of testimony is essential in the judicial process, and its proper approach can help ensure justice and prevent miscarriages of justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Enhancing repeated sprint ability (RSA) is critical to soccer performance. Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols, particularly those utilizing heavy resistance preloading, have shown promise in improving RSA. Yet, the optimal preloading intensity for amateur players is still unknown. This study investigated the effects of two PAPE protocols using different preloading intensities (85% and 90% of 1 RM back squat) on RSA. (2) Methods: A double-blind, randomized, two-period crossover design was used, and 18 amateur male players were included in this study. RSA was assessed using a 6 × 35 m sprint protocol with 10 s rest intervals (RAST). (3) Results: While the main effect of time significantly (p = 0.01, η2 = 0.71) influenced performance decline across all groups, there was no significant (p = 0.65, η2 = 0.01) interaction between time and condition. Individual responses to PAPE varied, highlighting the importance of individual differences. Interestingly, the BS85% group exhibited a less pronounced decline in performance compared to the control group, while the BS90% group only showed significant differences in three sprint levels. (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that a lower preload of 85% of 1 RM may be as adequate as a higher preload of 90% of 1 RM in enhancing RSA in amateur soccer players. These results may indicate a potential fatigue-delaying effect of PAPE protocols and emphasize the importance of individualized approaches for optimizing PAPE strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a raising of concerns about the need to change environmental behaviours through economic and social activities. Education plays a significant role in this process, with schools enhancing the necessary behaviour adoption by youngsters and their community. Thus, the present study examines the relationship between different variables, such as sustainability (green public procurement, healthy food activity) and education (course, impact, interactive teaching methods/technology). We developed a survey regarding education for sustainable development (ESD), with five sections considering the referred variables. We applied it to 385 Romanian educators and teachers from kindergarten and primary school. An SEM model was formed to evaluate the relationship between the associated variables. The results showed that an organisation or school with a long-term plan incorporating green public procurement will positively stimulate initiatives that help the next generation adopt good eating habits. Moreover, this eco-sustainable approach affects the creation of interactive teaching methods and the courses and classes. Consequently, the changes in interactive methods will positively affect the overall impact. Nevertheless, the relationship between courses and impact was not significant. This means management decisions regarding green strategies can lead to a broader change in a school setting, fostering the ESD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ORL.ro is the property of MEDICHUB MEDIA, S.R.L. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of ORL.ro is the property of MEDICHUB MEDIA, S.R.L. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of listening to classical music on functional (upper and lower body strength, functional mobility and aerobic endurance) and cognitive (attentional capacities and working memory (WM)) performances in women aged between 50 and 60 years old. A total of 24 middle-aged women were enrolled to participate in this study. Their functional and cognitive performances were assessed under two-auditory conditions (no-music vs. with music conditions) using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test for functional mobility, the Arm Curl test and 30 s Chair Stand Tests for the upper and lower body strength, respectively, and the 2 min Step test for aerobic endurance. To assess the attentional capacities and the WM, a simple reaction time (SRT) test and Corsi Block-Tapping Task were used, respectively. As a result, we found that listening to music significantly decreased the scores of the TUG test (p < 0.001) and capacities (p < 0.05), and increased the 2 min Step test values (p < 0.001) compared to the no-music condition. However, no significant changes were found for the upper and lower body strength and WM. We conclude that listening to classical music, i.e., Mozart's Symphony, is effective in improving functional mobility, aerobic endurance and attentional capacities in middle-aged women. However, these gains were absent for muscle strength and WM, suggesting that the positive effects of music on functional and cognitive performances were dependent on a specific task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades in the countries of Eastern Europe, a region of which Romania is also a part, political transformations of the late 1980s triggered the large-scale abandonment of permanent meadows, many being left unused and subsequently subjected to degradation. This study investigated the effect of differential fertilization of permanent pastures used with sheep in the Moldavian Plateau area on their floristic composition and pastoral values. The experiences began in 2023 and were carried out within RDSSGB Secuieni Bacău. Four lots of meadows were established with an area of 1.4 ha each, which were fertilized as follows: unfertilized meadow (control lot), meadow fertilized with chemical and organic fertilizers, meadow fertilized with organic fertilizers, and meadow fertilized with organic fertilizers plus overseeding. The obtained results attest the net superiority of the experimental lots compared to the control lot both in terms of floristic composition and pastoral value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect generated by the use of meat breed rams from the Vandeen, Blanche du Masif Central, and Berrichon du Cher breeds on the main indicators specific to sheep meat production. The biological material consisted of F1 crossbred lambs resulting from crossing of these breeds with local Țigaie ewes--rusty variety. The evaluation period was during the lambs' suckling phase. Based on the values obtained at weaning, the average daily weight gain and the total weight gain over the 75-day suckling period were determined. The differences registered between the performance of Țigaie breed lambs and crossbred lambs are obvious and have a high level of statistical significance (p = 0.001) for both total weight gain and average daily weight gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Astra Salvensis is the property of Transylvanian Association of Romanian Culture & Literature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Strigolactones (SLs) are plant hormones with significant roles in plant growth, development and environmental interactions. SLs were first discovered to stimulate the germination of parasitic plants such as Striga and Orobanche, but they have now been revealed to regulate a variety of physiological processes in plants. Since their detection as germination stimulants, SLs have received a lot of attention for their several activities in controlling shoot branching, stress responses and symbiotic interactions with beneficial microorganisms. This review examines recent bioinformatics approaches to evaluating SLs and their receptors. By thoroughly exploring the significance of SLs in plant biology, this article highlights the potential for interdisciplinary research to fully use SLs in agriculture and other applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Yoga is one of the physical and mental activities used in elite sports training for risk prevention and medical rehabilitation in case of injuries caused by overtraining or accidents. This study examined the opinions of Romanian elite athletes and coaches on the feasibility of incorporating yoga practice into training regimens for purposes of injury prevention and medical recovery. Methods: This study surveyed a group of 500 athletes, coaches, and medical personnel from three universities in Romania, all of which are part of the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport (PES). An online survey was administered which evaluates athletes' experience of yoga integration in pre/post training and its positive effects on reducing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The data were then analyzed with a structural equation model utilizing SmartPLS software. Results: According to the survey, Romanian athletes use yoga both before and after competitions to improve their focus, balance, muscle, and joint elasticity, foster a winning mindset, control their emotions and PTSD, visualize their competition performance, and see themselves as winners. The survey also found that yoga is seen as useful for cardiac rehabilitation, neuropathic pain, pulmonary disease, orthopedic illness, muscle strain, and managing symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Conclusion: This study contributes to enhancing athletes' mindfulness and health, offering valuable insights to trainers and athletes interested in incorporating yoga into professional sports activity. The results support the notion that yoga integration in training activity promises to positively influence athletes' performance and reduce collateral side effects of competitions. The results are also in line with the objectives of the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018-2030 (GAPPPA) - with the theme of "being more efficient to prevent than to treat" - which places special emphasis on the demands for certain programs and services, sports coverage, and healthy workplace initiatives. The study further indicates that Romanian elite athletes and coaches support the use of yoga is an effective method for enhancing athletic training and medical therapy for post-traumatic illnesses and stress disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research delves into the underexplored area of how production network structures influence the severity of economic downturns, particularly during the last financial crisis. Utilizing the RSTAN database from the OECD, we meticulously derived critical measures from the input-output matrices for 61 economies. Our methodology entailed a panel analysis spanning from 2008 to 2010, which is a period marked by significant recessionary pressures. This analysis aimed to correlate economic performance with various production network metrics, taking into account control factors such as interest rates and the prevalence of service sectors. The findings reveal a noteworthy positive correlation between the density of production networks and economic resilience during the crisis, which remained consistent across multiple model specifications. Conversely, as anticipated, higher interest rates were linked to poorer economic performance, highlighting the critical interplay between monetary policy and economic outcomes during periods of financial instability. Given these insights, we propose a policy recommendation emphasizing the strategic enhancement of production network density as a potential buffer against economic downturns. This approach suggests that policymakers should consider the structural aspects of production networks in designing economic stability and growth strategies, thus potentially mitigating the impacts of future financial crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This article is intended to serve as a roadmap for scientists, steering them toward fruitful avenues of investigation. Moreover, the review makes a compelling argument for the implementation of universal cancer screening and multi-cancer early detection screening. It synthesizes evidence supporting the efficacy of such screenings, emphasizing their potential to detect various cancers at early, more treatable stages. By presenting a well-reasoned case, the review contributes to the discourse on the importance of widespread screening, urging healthcare providers and policymakers to consider its adoption for improved cancer detection and outcomes. Cancer continues to pose a considerable challenge to global health. In the search for innovative strategies to combat this complex enemy, the concept of universal cancer screening has emerged as a promising avenue for early detection and prevention. In contrast to targeted approaches that focus on specific populations or high-risk individuals, universal screening seeks to cast a wide net to detect incipient malignancies in different demographic groups. This paradigm shift in cancer care underscores the importance of comprehensive screening programs that go beyond conventional boundaries. As our understanding of the complex molecular and genetic basis of cancer deepens, the need to develop comprehensive screening methods becomes increasingly apparent. In this article, we look at the rationale and potential benefits of universal cancer screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research aims to elucidate the influence of reduction process of TiO2 nanostructures on the surface properties of a bioinspired Ti modified implant, considering that the interface between a biomaterial surface and the living tissue plays an important role for this interaction. The production of reduced TiO2 nanotubes (RNT) with lower band gap is optimized and their performance is compared with those of simple TiO2 nanotubes (NT). The more conductive surfaces provided by the presence of RNT on Ti, allow a facile deposition of silk fibroin (SF) film using the electrochemical deposition method. This hybrid film is then functionalized with ZnO nanoparticles, to improve the antibacterial effect of the coating. The modified Ti surface is evaluated in terms of surface chemistry, morphology and roughness, wettability, surface energy, surface charge and antibacterial properties. Surface analysis such as SEM, AFM, FTIR and contact angle measurements were performed to obtain topographical features and wettability. FT‐IR analysis confirms that SF was effectively attached to TiO2 nanotubes surfaces. The electrochemical deposition of SF and SF‐ZnO reduced the interior diameter of nanotubes from ~85 nm to approx. 50–60 nm. All modified surfaces have a hydrophilic character. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pygmalion Effect or Rosenthal effect is a psychological phenomenon in which high expectations towards a person lead to improvement in the performance of the individual in a particular area. The Pygmalion/Rosenthal effect was named after the Greek myth of Pygmalion, a sculptor who fell in love with a statue he sculpted and named after the psychologist Robert Rosenthal. In their book, Rosenthal and Lenore Jacobson applied the idea of the phenomenon to teachers' expectations of students, showing how these affect student performance, a view that has been partially undermined by subsequent research. Rosenthal and Jacobson argued that high expectations lead to better performance, and low expectations lead to worse outcomes, both effects leading to the self-fulfillment of prophecies. According to the Pygmalion effect, subjects acquire positive labels and manage to live up to expectations. A similar process works in the opposite direction, in the case of reduced expectations. The idea behind the Pygmalion effect is that an increase in the leader's expectations about the individual's performance will lead to better performance. In sociology, the effect is often invoked in relation to education and social class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In environments with potentially explosive atmospheres, earthing protection covers three aspects: protection against electric shock, prevention of electrostatic discharges from equipment/facilities, processed materials or people, and protection against atmospheric discharges. The paper presents some aspects regarding the specific requirements for earthing protection in atmospheres with the risk of explosive atmospheres that must be taken into account when evaluating the risk of explosions. Norms and reference standards are also highlighted, which are constantly changing in step with the latest scientific achievements, emphasizing the importance of updating them with the latest information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Romanian small-scale fisheries are practiced along the Black Sea coast in five fishing ports (Sulina, Cape Midia, Tomis, Constanta and Mangalia) and 18 other small fishing stations, located between Sulina - Vama Veche, at depths ranging between 2 - 20 m and sometimes up to 50 m, when practicing specialized turbot fisheries. Of significant importance is fishing with divers for the Rapana venosa, the species with the greatest impact on the landed catches. In the coastal area, between Vama Veche and Sulina, which also represents an important area for the reproduction, feeding and rearing of some important fish species, the small-scale fishing is practiced with fixed and active gear, throughout the year, mainly using the following types of fishing gears: pound nets, gillnets, longlines, beach seines, cages/traps, handlines and from 2013 with beam trawl. Catch and fishery productivity vary yearly, depending on environmental conditions, fishing effort, status of main commercial species, and human factors. During the analyzed period (2019 - 2023), catches in shallow waters were between 7149 and 3127 tons, which has an increasing trend compared to the previous period (2012 -- 2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the Gaidropsarus mediterraneus (Linnaeus, 1758) species growth pattern from the Romanian Black Sea Coast, in the year 2023. This has been accomplished by studying the length-weight relationship, an important parameter, which helps to know the growth pattern of fish populations, Fulton's condition factor (kc) (useful index for monitoring feeding intensity) from 180 shore rockling individuals caught by pots. Average lengths and weights were 24.4 ± 2.6 cm and 101.46 ± 38.11 g, respectively, the minimum and maximum values were 18.3 and 33.8 cm, 36 and 319 g in weight. The value of exponent b in the equation is 3.197, indicating that the increasing weight is allometrically positive and mean value of the Fulton was 0.68 ± 0.08, with the minimum and maximum values of 0.47 to 0.90. The obtained results can have useful effects on the stock management of this fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowing the diet composition of a fish species provides a key to understanding their place in the marine food web. Between May 2021 and September 2022, 120 stomachs of horse mackerel with sizes between 8.0 and 15.5 cm (average length 11.43±1.35 cm), were sampled and analyzed. The identified prey were: fish (Engraulis encrasicolus - anchovy), copepods (Acartia clausi, Calanus euxinus), molluscs and annelids polychaetes. Regarding the value of the Relative Importance Index (RII), the copepod group dominated. This prey is probably characteristic of small size individuals that dominated the samples. Their diet was similar between years. The analysis of Fullness Index (FI) highlights an increase in the index according to length. There are no significant FI differences between the stations, month and years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present work was to analyse the morpho-productive parameters of the R1 sheep resulting from the crossing of the local sheep from the north-eastern area of the country with the Awassi breed. The results showed that compared to the milk production of Tsurcana breed during the milking period (120 days), the milked milk production of R1 sheep in the first lactation is higher by 17.30 kg, the differences being very significant (P<0.001). Following the analysis of the external morphological characteristics of the R1 sheep, it emerged that the only character specific to the Awassi breed that was transmitted in a higher percentage is the long and drooping ears (36.7%), the other characters being transmitted in a reduced percentage (3.3-16.7%). The reproductive indices showed the highest values in the case of R1 sheep (compared to the Tsurcana breed, the prolificacy is 28.6% higher, and the numerical productivity index is 41.4% higher). All these results recommend the improvement of local sheep from the north-eastern area of our country through crossbreeding with the Awassi breed up to the second generation of absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present work was to analyze the quantity and quality of milk production at R1 crossbreeds in the first lactation resulting from crossing local sheep from the north-eastern area of the country with Awassi rams. For the determination of total milk production, the control of milk production includes the suckling period of the lambs and the milking period of the ewes. The AT4 method was used during the milking period following the technical specifications recommended by ICAR. During the suckling period, the amount of milk in R1 crossbreds ewes was 57.33 kg and the production of milked milk was 71.54 kg. The average daily milk production of the 4 controls for R1 crossbred ewes was 649.38±37.03 g, with limits between 285 and 1197 g milk. In 180 days of total lactation the milk production obtained in the first lactation of crossbreds R1 sheep was 128.87 kg, being 2% lower than that obtained in Awassi breed sheep. Thus, a significant improvement in the milk production of local sheep can be observed by using this type of crossbreeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The G+ method is a new method, a powerful one, for the study of (homogeneous and nonhomogeneous) products of nonnegative matrices | for problems on the products of nonnegative matrices. To study such products, new classes of matrices are introduced: that of the sum-positive matrices, that of the [Δ]-positive matrices on partitions (of the column index sets), that of the G+k- matrices... On the other hand, the G+k -matrices lead to necessary and sufficient conditions for the k-connected graphs. Using the G+ method, we prove old and new results (Wielandt Theorem and a generalization of it, etc.) on the products of nonnegative matrices | mainly, sum-positive, [Δ]-positive on partitions, irreducible, primitive, reducible, fully indecomposable, scrambling, or Sarymsakov matrices, in some cases the matrices being, moreover, G+k -matrices (not only irreducible). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financing needs present a significant challenge for companies launching investment projects, as they require innovative solutions. These solutions may include optimizing internal processes or seeking external funding sources. Calculating the funding gap involves evaluating investments, cash flows, and the weighted average cost of capital. An accurate assessment is crucial for financial management and claiming State aid. This article explores the concept of the funding gap in the context of State aid legislation and the specific requirements for calculating this gap for different types of State aid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Internal Medicine / Medicină Internă is the property of Sciendo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Leather & Footwear Journal / Revista de Pielarie Incaltaminte is the property of INCDTP and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Leather & Footwear Journal / Revista de Pielarie Incaltaminte is the property of INCDTP and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The early loss of dental implants can be avoided with systemic antibiotics, however there are potentially significant side effects. Consequently, the use of local drug administration techniques is necessary to make dental implant therapy more practical. In this study, Y-branched nanotubes were prepared by non-expensive and simple anodization in two steps. Tests were performed to highlight their potential for local antibiotic administration. Y-branched nanotubes were able to incorporate a dose of Tetracycline and ensure its electrochemical stability. The presence of tetracycline significantly enhanced antibacterial efficacy, resulting in an increase of up to 55% for Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 50% for Staphylococcus aureus. The comparable antibacterial effects of the nanostructured surfaces highlight the potential of tetracycline in promoting antimicrobial action. Moreover, the addition of tetracycline does not influence the structural, morphological and stability properties of the nanostructured deposited TiO2 films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Football was, is, and (perhaps) will always be the most widespread sport all over the world. High performance means hard work for all players, regardless of age. In this respect, training methods are adjusted to the needs of modern football, converging towards the successful formation of players with good technical tactical, physical, theoretical, and psychological levels. In the context of the research, we chose to use a program based on the circuit method, which would lead to the re-adaptation of junior football players to performance demands after the COVID-19 pandemic period (which was very difficult for sports in general). The circuit method is a suitable factor for the current trends in modern football. Our research showed that the circuit method was consistent with the specific goals of football training for 10–12 year olds. The method proposed for this study was not new, but it was applied for the first time to children and juniors, considering their age characteristics and the requirements of the modern world. Its implementation involved using a literature review, active observation, and practical methods. The exercises used in the study were designed in compliance with the specifics of both the age of 10–12 years and the game of football played at this level. The paper demonstrates that the circuit method enables teachers and coaches to achieve the football training goals intended for this age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article explores the multiple applications and potential of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in the biomedical field. With their highly versatile and tunable properties, MOFs present many possibilities, including drug delivery, biomolecule recognition, biosensors, and immunotherapy. Their crystal structure allows precise tuning, with the ligand typology and metal geometry playing critical roles. MOFs' ability to encapsulate drugs and exhibit pH-triggered release makes them ideal candidates for precision medicine, including cancer treatment. They are also potential gene carriers for genetic disorders and have been used in biosensors and as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. Despite the complexities encountered in modulating properties and interactions with biological systems, further research on MOFs is imperative. The primary focus of this review is to provide a comprehensive examination of MOFs in these applications, highlighting the current achievements and complexities encountered. Such efforts will uncover their untapped potential in creating innovative tools for biomedical applications, emphasizing the need to invest in the continued exploration of this promising field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PGC-1α plays a central role in maintaining mitochondrial and energy metabolism homeostasis, linking external stimuli to transcriptional co-activation of genes involved in adaptive and age-related pathways. The carboxyl-terminus encodes a serine/arginine-rich (RS) region and an RNA recognition motif, however the RNA-processing function(s) were poorly investigated over the past 20 years. Here, we show that the RS domain of human PGC-1α directly interacts with RNA and the nuclear RNA export receptor NXF1. Inducible depletion of PGC-1α and expression of RNAi-resistant RS-deleted PGC-1α further demonstrate that its RNA/NXF1-binding activity is required for the nuclear export of some canonical mitochondrial-related mRNAs and mitochondrial homeostasis. Genome-wide investigations reveal that the nuclear export function is not strictly linked to promoter-binding, identifying in turn novel regulatory targets of PGC-1α in non-homologous end-joining and nucleocytoplasmic transport. These findings provide new directions to further elucidate the roles of PGC-1α in gene expression, metabolic disorders, aging and neurodegeneration. PGC-1α is a master regulator activating the transcription of key genes controlling the cell's energy production. Here the authors show that PGC-1α has a function in the NXF1-dependent nuclear export of mRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present research is to develop a novel hybrid coating for a Ti dental implant that combines nature-inspired biomimetic polymers and TiO2 nanostructures with an entrapped ZnO antimicrobial agent. ZnO was used in other studies to cover the surface of Ti or Ti–Zr to reduce the need of clinical antibiotics, prevent the onset of peri-implantitis, and increase the success rate of oral clinical implantation. We developed an original coating that represents a promising approach in clinical dentistry. The titanium surface was first anodized to obtain TiO2 nanotubes (NT). Subsequently, on the NT surface, silk fibroin isolated from Bombyx mori cocoons was deposited as nanofibers using the electrospun technique. For an improved antibacterial effect, ZnO nanoparticles were incorporated in this biopolymer using three different methods. The surface properties of the newly created coatings were assessed to establish how they are influenced by the most important features: morphology, wettability, topography. The evaluation of stability by electrochemical methods in simulated physiological solutions was discussed more in detail, considering that it could bring necessary information related to the behavior of the implant material. All samples had improved roughness and hydrophilicity, as well as corrosion stability (with protection efficiency over 80%). The antibacterial test shows that the functional hybrid coating has good antibacterial activity because it can inhibit the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus up to 53% and Enterococcus faecalis up to 55%. All Ti samples with the modified surface have proven superior properties compared with unmodified TiNT, which proved that they have the potential to be used as implant material in dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and alopecia areata (AA) are the most common types of non-cicatricial alopecia. Both diseases have limited effective therapeutic options and affect patient quality of life. Pharmacogenetic tests can help predict the most appropriate treatment option by evaluating the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) corresponding to genes related to alopecia. The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare selected SNPs and genes in AA and AGA patients from Romania and Brazil. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective study regarding the associations between AA and AGA and 45 tag SNPs of 15 genes in 287 Romanian and 882 Brazilian patients. The DNA samples were collected from oral mucosa using a swab. The SNPs were determined by the qPCR technique. Each genetic test displays the subject's genotype of the selected gene and the prediction of a successful treatment (e.g., genotype AA of the GR-alpha gene is related to a predisposition to normal sensibility to topical glucocorticoid, and, therefore, glucocorticoids should be effective). Results: The GR-alpha, GPR44-2, SULT1A1, and CRABP2 genes were statistically significantly different in Brazil compared to Romania. The SULT1A1 activity that predicts the response to minoxidil treatment showed in our analysis that minoxidil is recommended in half of the cases of AGA and AA. Patients with AGA and a high expression of SRD5A1 or PTGFR-2 may benefit from Dutasteride or Latanoprost treatment, respectively. Most of the studied genes showed no differences between the two populations. Conclusions: The DNA analysis of the patients with alopecia may contribute to a successful treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Română de Drept al Afacerilor is the property of Wolters Kluwer Romania and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As the new entrants market is under fast development, integrating UAS in the daily air operations of a State, region and even internationally becomes a priority. The article tackles on Romanian national legislation in the UAS field emphasizing the connection of the national legislative system with the obligations Romania has at regional and international level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a common cerebrovascular ischemic disease whose symptoms resolve within a maximum of 24 hours. The study carried out by us is a retrospective descriptive one, in which we sought to highlight the main characteristics of TIA in patients admitted to the Emergency Hospital in Turnu-Severin municipality in Mehedini county, in the period 2016-2020, including a group of 53 patients, mainly from Mehedini county. The analysis of the study group and the risk factors showed that TIA mainly affects the elderly, over 50 years old, with the highest incidence being recorded in the 60-80-year age groups, with an extremely low incidence under 40 years. Significant differences were found between the sexes and between the social environments, with women and people from the urban environment being more prone to suffer a TIA. Among the most important modifiable risk factors encountered in TIA patients included in the study, the following were highlighted: HTN, obesity and atherosclerosis. Knowing the modifiable factors and combating them can improve the prognosis of AIT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ORL.ro is the property of MEDICHUB MEDIA, S.R.L. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study is to identify and test new natural photosensitizers used in antibacterial photodynamic therapy due to the antimicrobial and antioxidant effect they present. The experimental study was conducted on rats in which periodontal disease was induced. As treatment, photodynamic therapy was used in the presence of new developed natural photosensitizers based on oregano essential oil and curcumin extract. Malondialdehyde as well as low and oxidized glutathione levels were measured by spectrophotometry to assess oxidative stress in treated groups of rats. New photosensitizers were characterized by modern testing methods, using FTIR infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and UV-Vis analysis. The results obtained suggest that the prooxidant effect is mainly due to exposure to photodynamic therapy (irradiation) and leads to the antibacterial therapeutic effect that is maintained even when applying gels with antioxidant agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Leather & Footwear Journal / Revista de Pielarie Incaltaminte is the property of INCDTP and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)