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A graph is called split if its vertex set can be partitioned into a stable set and a clique. In this article, we studied two variants of split graphs. A graph Gis polar if its vertex set can be partitioned into two sets Aand Bsuch that G[A] is a complete multipartite graph and G[B] is a disjoint union of complete graphs. A 2-unipolar graph is a polar graph Gsuch that G[A] is a clique and G[B] is the disjoint union of complete graphs with at most two vertices. We present a minimal forbidden induced subgraph characterization for 2-unipolar graphs. In addition, we show that they can be represented as an intersection of substars of special cacti. Let Gbe a graph class, the G-widthof a graph Gis the minimum positive integer ksuch that there exist kindependent sets N1, … , Nksuch that a set Fof nonedges of G, whose endpoints belong to some Niwith i= 1, … , k, can be added so that the resulting graph G′belongs to G. We say that a graph Gis k-probe-Gif it has G-width at most kand when Gis the class of split graphs it is denominated k-probe-split. We prove that deciding, given a graph Gand a positive integer k, whether Gis a h-probe-split graph for some h≤ kis NP-complete. Besides, a characterization by minimal forbidden induced subgraphs for 2-probe-split cographs is presented.

•The study shows the safety and long-term efficacy of auto-HCT, even in patients with high-risk cHL who are traditionally considered chemotherapy refractory.•The study shows the long-term efficacy of auto-HCT, even in patients with high-risk cHL who are traditionally considered chemo refractory.

The use of synthetic cathinones (SCs) has increased in recent years, posing significant public health problems due to their adverse effects and potential for fatal poisonings. The structural diversity and rapid emergence of new SC analogues create challenges for law enforcement and drug screening techniques. This work presents for the first time the electrochemical detection of SCs using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) on a boron-doped diamond electrode (BDDE). We analyzed 15 SCs, including well-known compounds such as mephedrone, methylone, and ephylone, revealing distinct electrochemical profiles with two characteristic reduction peaks (R1and R2). The method was optimized in Britton–Robinson buffer (0.1 mol L–1, pH 8.0) and demonstrated a high selectivity and sensitivity. Multivariate statistical methods, including principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis, classified SCs into six distinct groups. The DPV optimization and analytical parameter determination, including the limit of detection (LOD), were performed for the least electroactive SC, 4′-methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone, yielding an LOD of 3.8 μmol L–1, suitable for screening street samples. Interference studies with common illicit drugs and adulterants confirmed the selectivity of the DPV-BDDE method. Preliminary identification of SCs in 46 real seized samples was successfully performed using this method with results validated by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). The method also identified three SCs not included in the original set: bupropion, benzylone, and dipentylone. The DPV-BDDE method offers a rapid, robust, and portable approach for the selective screening of SCs in forensic applications, demonstrating significant advantages over traditional colorimetric tests.

This study presents the effects of moisture variation and the influence of matric suction on the permanent deformation (PD) of three tropical soils with different geological-geotechnical characteristics used in road subgrades in southern Brazil. The experimental programme consisted in determining the soil-water characteristic curves and in dynamic triaxial tests to obtain the PD in different compaction and post-compaction moisture contents. The variation of compaction moisture content caused microstructural changes, influencing the plastic behaviour of soils: the higher the initial moisture content, the greater their accumulated permanent deformations. As expected, the post-compaction moisture variation (wetting process) tended to increase the plastic deformation of materials, evidencing the influence of the suction variation on the performance of the soils studied. In addition, matric suction proved to be the best variable to represent the effects of moisture variation on the plastic behaviour of soils subjected to cyclic loading. Thus, a PD prediction model for tropical soils with the inclusion of this parameter was proposed. The model proved to be highly predictive and may become an important tool to be incorporated into current mechanistic-empirical design methods.

Subcortical brain structures are involved in developmental, psychiatric and neurological disorders. Here we performed genome-wide association studies meta-analyses of intracranial and nine subcortical brain volumes (brainstem, caudate nucleus, putamen, hippocampus, globus pallidus, thalamus, nucleus accumbens, amygdala and the ventral diencephalon) in 74,898 participants of European ancestry. We identified 254 independent loci associated with these brain volumes, explaining up to 35% of phenotypic variance. We observed gene expression in specific neural cell types across differentiation time points, including genes involved in intracellular signaling and brain aging-related processes. Polygenic scores for brain volumes showed predictive ability when applied to individuals of diverse ancestries. We observed causal genetic effects of brain volumes with Parkinson’s disease and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Findings implicate specific gene expression patterns in brain development and genetic variants in comorbid neuropsychiatric disorders, which could point to a brain substrate and region of action for risk genes implicated in brain diseases.

This article proposes a novel single-switch switched-capacitor (SC) series-connected partial power converter (S-PPC) for the dc–dc stage of an unidirectional on-board charger. The proposed step-down S-PPC features two key aspects: i) it performs partial power processing, reducing the active power processed by the dc–dc stage, and ii) it is transformerless, with the SC cell providing the necessary isolation to prevent a short-circuit between the low and high potentials of the electric vehicle (EV) battery pack. These characteristics allow the S-PPC to operate in a wide output voltage range with higher efficiency when compared to a conventional buck converter. To validate the analyzes, a 3 kW prototype was built and tested. It reached rated and peak efficiencies around 98.7% and 99.6%, respectively, in the constant current and constant voltage charging modes. Compared to previously published S-PPCs for EV charging applications, the SC S-PPC employs fewer semiconductors (only one active switch), which reduces its complexity and cost.

Non-invasive biomarkers are promising tools for improving kidney allograft rejection monitoring, but their clinical adoption requires more evidence in specifically designed studies. To address this unmet need, we designed the EU-TRAIN study, a large prospective multicentric unselected cohort funded by the European Commission. Here, we included consecutive adult patients who received a kidney allograft in nine European transplant centers between November 2018 and June 2020. We prospectively assessed gene expression levels of 19 blood messenger RNAs, four antibodies targeting non–human leukocyte antigen (HLA) endothelial antigens, together with circulating anti-HLA donor-specific antibodies (DSA). The primary outcome was allograft rejection (antibody-mediated, T cell–mediated, or mixed) in the first year post-transplantation. Overall, 412 patients were included, with 812 biopsies paired with a blood sample. CD4gene expression was significantly associated with rejection, while circulating anti-HLA DSA had a significant association with allograft rejection and a strong association with antibody-mediated rejection. All other tested biomarkers, including AKR1C3, CD3E, CD40, CD8A, CD9, CTLA4, ENTPD1, FOXP3, GZMB, ID3, IL7R, MS4A1, MZB1, POU2AF1, POU2F1, TCL1A, TLR4, and TRIB1, as well as antibodies against angiotensin II type 1 receptor, endothelin 1 type A receptor, C3a and C5a receptors, did not show significant associations with allograft rejection. The blood messenger RNAs and non-HLA antibodies did not show an additional value beyond standard of care monitoring parameters and circulating anti-HLA DSA to predict allograft rejection in the first year post-transplantation. Thus, our results open avenues for specifically designed studies to demonstrate the clinical relevance and implementation of other candidate non-invasive biomarkers in kidney transplantation practice.

Increasing number of older adults with Plasma Cell Disorders (PCDs) are receiving autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in the US. Hospital associated disability (HAD) is a common complication associated with acute care hospitalization among older adults. To estimate the prevalence and prognostic significance of HAD among older adults with MM undergoing ASCT. This retrospective cohort study used consecutive adults ≥ 18 y with PCD receiving ASCT at a single institution between 1/2013 and 5/2023. Trained nursing staff assessed Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL) at admission and every 3 days thereafter under our Virtual Acute Care for Elders program. The primary outcome was development of HAD defined as ≥1 point decline on the Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale from hospital admission to discharge. We examined the association between putative risk factors such as age, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), baseline ADL score, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation-specific Comorbidity Index (HCT-CI) and HAD using modified Poisson regression models with robust variance estimators. Subsequently, we studied the impact of HAD on downstream adverse events including 30-day readmission rates and long term survival. We included 778 adults with a median age of 62 y (QR 56-68 y), with 56% males and 55% non-Hispanic Whites. In the overall population, 112 (14.4%) developed HAD, with much higher incidence among older adults ≥ 65 y compared to those <65 y at ASCT (22% vs. 9%, Pvalue < .01). In multivariable analysis, increasing age (RR 1.56; 95% CI 1.25-1.94, per 10 y increase), female sex (RR 1.79; 95% CI 1.27-2.53) and KPS ≤ 70 (RR 2.55; 95% CI 1.32-4.94) were associated with an increased risk of developing HAD. As compared to those without, patients with HAD had a two-fold higher risk of 30-day readmission (95% CI 1.16-3.39) and a 3.7-fold increased risk of all-cause mortality (95% CI 2.15-6.22). Nearly one in 4 older adults ≥ 65 y developed HAD while undergoing ASCT which was associated with a two-fold increased risk of 30-day readmission. Interventions to prevent HAD and its downstream consequences are critically needed.

Background: To compare accuracy in intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in eyes undergoing combined cataract and Descemet stripping and automated endothelial keratoplasty (C-DSAEK) surgery of the following formulas: Barrett Universal II, EVO, Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 2, Kane and SRK/T. Methods: 72 eyes from 72 patients (38 males, (53%)) with a mean age 68.08 ± 8.69 years (from 44 to 88 years old) underwent combined C-DSAEK were included. The IOL powers to implant were calculated with Barrett Universal II formula targeting −1 D refraction. Preoperative and postoperative data were used to obtain the median of absolute prediction errors (MAE) targeting emmetropia with every tested formula. Results: Means of MAE calculated were +1.45 D for Barrett Universal II, +1.37 D for EVO, +1.48 D for Haigis, +1.38 D for Hoffer Q, +1.37 D for Holladay 2, +1.39 D for Kane and +1.31 D for SRK/T. SRK/T MAE showed major significant (p&lt; 0.01) differences compared to the other formulas. Discussion: Even if tested formulas are not able to accurately target emmetropia, SRK/T seems to be able to provide closer results in eyes undergoing C-DSAEK.

Objectives: Nasal polyposis (NP) is a common and recurrent condition of the sinonasal cavity which has significant impact on patients’ quality of life. NP pathophysiology involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Several studies have explored the association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles and NP, but the results have been conflicting. The aim of this meta-analysis is to investigate the association between HLA class II alleles, specifically HLA-DQA1, HLA-DQB1, and HLA-DRB1and NP risk.Methods: A systematic review was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library, to identify studies investigating the association between HLA class II alleles and NP. Eligible studies were identified by specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the association between HLA class II alleles and NP risk. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled OR and corresponding 95% CI, and a study required a heterogeneity assessment value I2< 25% to be considered for analysis.Study design: Meta-analysis.Results: A total of four studies were included in this meta-analysis, involving a total of 258 NP alleles and 802 control alleles. The analysis indicated that DQA1*0201 (OR = 3.08, 95% CI [1.70, 5.59]) and DRB1*7 (OR = 2.04, 95% CI [1.14, 3.66]) were significantly associated with increased risk of NP. The analysis of the NP risk alleles DQA1*0201 and DRB1*7 had an I2< 0% representing low heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis with LFK indices showed minor asymmetry in either allele.Conclusions: This meta-analysis provides evidence that the HLA-DQA1*0201 and HLA-DRB1*7 alleles are risk factors for the development of NP. These findings could contribute to a better understanding of the genetic predisposition of NP and may have implications for the development of novel approaches for the prevention and treatment of this condition.

Caloric restriction extends healthy lifespan in multiple species1. Intermittent fasting, an alternative form of dietary restriction, is potentially more sustainable in humans, but its effectiveness remains largely unexplored2–8. Identifying the most efficacious forms of dietary restriction is key for developing interventions to improve human health and longevity9. Here we performed an extensive assessment of graded levels of caloric restriction (20% and 40%) and intermittent fasting (1 and 2 days fasting per week) on the health and survival of 960 genetically diverse female mice. We show that caloric restriction and intermittent fasting both resulted in lifespan extension in proportion to the degree of restriction. Lifespan was heritable and genetics had a larger influence on lifespan than dietary restriction. The strongest trait associations with lifespan included retention of body weight through periods of handling—an indicator of stress resilience, high lymphocyte proportion, low red blood cell distribution width and high adiposity in late life. Health effects differed between interventions and exhibited inconsistent relationships with lifespan extension. 40% caloric restriction had the strongest lifespan extension effect but led to a loss of lean mass and changes in the immune repertoire that could confer susceptibility to infections. Intermittent fasting did not extend the lifespan of mice with high pre-intervention body weight, and two-day intermittent fasting was associated with disruption of erythroid cell populations. Metabolic responses to dietary restriction, including reduced adiposity and lower fasting glucose, were not associated with increased lifespan, suggesting that dietary restriction does more than just counteract the negative effects of obesity. Our findings indicate that improving health and extending lifespan are not synonymous and raise questions about which end points are the most relevant for evaluating aging interventions in preclinical models and clinical trials.

Slide electrification experiments were performed on low-density polyethylene films (PE) and PEsprayed with five amphiphilic compounds, including antistatic and slip additives. Drops of aqueous solutions were delivered on the films and after sliding spontaneously acquired a net electrical charge (Qdrop), which is dependent on the pH and ionic strength. The slide electrification was detected in pristine PEfilms and those with five additives. An acid–base equilibrium model, based on the adsorption of hydroxides and protons on surface sites, accounted for the dependence of Qdropon pH, allowing recovery of the acid–base equilibrium constants and the density of adsorption sites. The model was modified to account for ionic strength effects through activity factors. The surface conductivity, wettability, and friction coefficients were strongly modified by the additives. However, the observed trends are different from those observed in slide electrification, which better correlated with zeta potential determinations. This suggests that the interaction mechanisms among surface water, the considered additives, and the polymer, which are involved in slide electrification and the generation of zeta potential, are different from those associated with other surface processes involving surface water. Although additives are required for changing surface resistivity, friction coefficients, and wettability, the generation of sliding electrical charges in polyethylene is a spontaneous and highly effective process. For one specific additive, a simultaneous decrease in friction coefficients, zeta potential, and Qdropwas observed, assigned to the blockade of hydroxide adsorption sites and water repulsion by the compound.

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) have been the subject of numerous studies in the literature with the aim of replacing traditional solvents due to their green solvents’ characteristics such as low toxicity, biodegradability, and versatility. Despite their numerous advantages, it is increasingly urgent to determine their chemical and thermophysical properties for a more accurate industrial use. This study presents experimental data on the physicochemical properties of deep eutectic solvents containing choline and different organic acids. Spectroscopy analyses confirm the occurrence of carboxylic esterification reaction, particularly in the malonic acid mixture. Thermal analyses by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis reveal the crucial role of hydrogen bond donors in the thermophysical characteristics of the DES prepared. The thermophysical behaviors of DES are described by linear relationships, where the size of the alkyl chain exerts a considerable influence on the parameters of density, viscosity, and refractive index. Cyclic voltammetry demonstrates a wide electrochemical stability window (−1.16 to 2.19 V) for mixtures containing malonic and 3-phenylpropionic acids and a pronounced irreversible reductive signal for mixtures containing acetic and propionic acids.

Historically, most high mountain lakes in western North America were devoid of fish, but during the past century, many have been stocked with salmonids to diversify angling opportunities. Basic information on harvest and catch and release (C–R) for high mountain lake fisheries is lacking, as is information on factors influencing catch in such settings; our objectives were to fill these knowledge gaps. Using angling gear, we captured and implanted T‐bar anchor tags into 1163 salmonids of various species (fish of wild origin or hatchery fish stocked as fry; they could not be distinguished) in 103 high mountain lakes scattered across Idaho. Angler‐reported tag returns were used to estimate annual rates of exploitation and C–R, and a model selection approach was used to investigate factors influencing the angler catch of tagged fish. Anglers reported the catch of 125 tagged fish from 52 different lakes. The mean number of days at large for reported fish was 318 days, with a range of 1 to 1465 days. Annual exploitation was 5.8 ± 7.1% (mean ± 90% confidence interval), the annual C–R rate was 8.5 ± 8.5%, and total annual catch (i.e., exploitation plus C–R) was 14.2 ± 11.0%. Of the predictive factors that we investigated, the likelihood of a fish being caught by an angler was negatively associated with hiking distance and positively associated with shoreline development index and fish length. Our results indicate that exploitation of salmonids in Idaho high mountain lakes is low even with liberal (six‐fish daily bag limit) harvest regulations. Consequently, angler harvest is unlikely to be substantively affecting the abundance or size structure of salmonid populations in these lakes. Continued tagging would improve the precision of exploitation and C–R estimates, especially for comparisons among species. Impact StatementBased on angler reporting of tagged fish, the annual exploitation of salmonids in Idaho high mountain lakes was 5.8% and the catch‐and‐release rate was 8.5%. Less hiking distance, a less uniform shoreline, and larger fish size improved the likelihood that tagged fish would be caught by anglers. Based on angler reporting of tagged fish, the annual exploitation of salmonids in Idaho high mountain lakes was 5.8% and the catch‐and‐release rate was 8.5%. Less hiking distance, a less uniform shoreline, and larger fish size improved the likelihood that tagged fish would be caught by anglers.

The small Neotropical papilionoid legume genus Sigmoidotropis(nine species) has been described only relatively recently as the result of the taxonomic rearrangement of the genus Vigna(subtribe Phaseolinae), based on phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data. Here, we formally propose a new lianescent species of Sigmoidotropisthat occurs disjunctly in enclaves of moist forest of mountainous regions surrounded by dry vegetation at three different localities in the Brazilian states of Bahia and Minas Gerais. Its phylogenetic position and morphological affinities with other genera of Phaseolinae were evaluated by Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses, using sequence data from the nuclear ITS/5.8S and plastid trnK/matK. To better understand this new species’ widely disjunct distribution and a possible connection between its populations in the past, an environmental niche modelling (ENM) analysis was performed. The phylogenetic analyses revealed that Sigmoidotropisappears closest to the genera Ancistrotropisand Delgadoana, together forming the Sigmoid‐keel clade. The new species proposed here is strongly recovered within Sigmoidotropis, being most closely related to S. ekmaniana, S. elegans, and S. megatyla. The ENM indicated changes in the potential distribution of the new species over different climatic periods, with expansion during colder periods and contraction during warmer periods, leading to possible relictual populations in moist forest enclaves. A description of the new species Sigmoidotropis maculatais presented, along with illustrations, a distribution map, taxonomic comments, and conservation status assessment.

The global burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) poses a challenge in the context of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programmes. We aimed to explore factors associated with prevalent, incident, and recurrent STIs in men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women on PrEP in Brazil, Mexico, and Peru.

Methylation of cytosine 32 in the anticodon loop of tRNAs to 3-methylcytosine (m3C) is crucial for cellular translation fidelity. Misregulation of the RNA methyltransferases setting this modification can cause aggressive cancers and metabolic disturbances. Here, we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the human m3C tRNA methyltransferase METTL6 in complex with seryl-tRNA synthetase (SerRS) and their common substrate tRNASer. Through the complex structure, we identify the tRNA-binding domain of METTL6. We show that SerRS acts as the tRNASersubstrate selection factor for METTL6. We demonstrate that SerRS augments the methylation activity of METTL6 and that direct contacts between METTL6 and SerRS are necessary for efficient tRNASermethylation. Finally, on the basis of the structure of METTL6 in complex with SerRS and tRNASer, we postulate a universal tRNA-binding mode for m3C RNA methyltransferases, including METTL2 and METTL8, suggesting that these mammalian paralogs use similar ways to engage their respective tRNA substrates and cofactors.

This research paper examines the heritage value of construction documentation and processes via Virtual Reality (VR), with a focus on the Sydney Opera House (SOH). It underscores the importance of comprehending and documenting transient construction techniques for heritage valuation. Utilising VR, the study offers an immersive portrayal of the SOH's construction, emphasising its innovative methods, craftsmanship, and environmental challenges. The paper draws from the Digital Heritage Construction project, showcased at the Heritage Exposition of the ICOMOS General Assembly 2023. This project featured two VR simulations, developed through analysing 200 original shop drawings, historical photographs, and site minutes and reports. The first simulation illustrates the formwork systems used for the SOH's iconic sails, while the second elucidates the assembly methods for the precast vaulted roofs, including the operation of the telescopic erection arch and the installation of concrete segments. The paper examines the novelty of this approach through a survey conducted at the Heritage Exposition. Analysis of the survey's result reveals VR's effectiveness in deepening the appreciation of architectural heritage's intangible qualities, providing new insights into the historical construction processes of the building and their cultural significance.

The Sam (sterile alpha motif) domain from the lipid phosphatase Ship2 binds the Sam domain from the EphA2 receptor to negatively regulate receptor endocytosis and degradation. This interaction is primarily linked to pro-oncogenic effects. We report on the design and evaluation of EphA2-Sam/Ship2-Sam peptide inhibitors provided with positive charges and different aromatic characters. Starting from the sequence of previously identified Ship2-Sam targeting peptides, an in silico approach was set up to predict higher affinity peptide ligands. A few peptides were experimentally tested through an interdisciplinary approach. Interaction studies were performed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and biolayer interferometry. 3D models of Ship2-Sam/peptide complexes were predicted by AlphaFold2. Cell-based assays were carried out to investigate whether such peptide sequences might have an influence on EphA2 signaling. The approach led to the identification of novel Ship2-Sam ligands and shed further light on original approaches to design inhibitors of the Ship2-Sam/EphA2-Sam interaction.

•The major cause of death in patients with ataxia-telangiectasia and hematological malignancies is treatment-related toxicity.•The germ line ATMpathogenic variant functional class is a robust outcome predictor, which can be applied to therapy stratification.

The directed migration of epithelial cell collectives through coordinated movements plays a crucial role in various physiological processes and is increasingly understood at the level of large confluent monolayers. However, numerous processes rely on the migration of small groups of polarized epithelial clusters in complex environments, and their responses to external geometries remain poorly understood. To address this, we cultivate primary epithelial keratocyte tissues on adhesive microstripes to create autonomous epithelial clusters with well-defined geometries. We show that their migration efficiency is strongly influenced by the contact geometry and the orientation of cell–cell contacts with respect to the direction of migration. A combination of velocity and polarity alignment with contact regulation of locomotion in an active matter model captures quantitatively the experimental data. Furthermore, we predict that this combination of rules enables efficient navigation in complex geometries, which we confirm experimentally. Altogether, our findings provide a conceptual framework for extracting the interaction rules of active systems from their interaction with physical boundaries, as well as design principles for collective navigation in complex microenvironments.

Using ultraprocessed food (UPF) to replace traditional feed ingredients offers a promising strategy for enhancing food production sustainability.

Background: Arterial lines and central venous catheter (CVC) allow to monitor patients’ acid-base status and gas exchange. Their placement and maintenance may however be burdened by severe complications. Midline Catheters (MC) are peripheral venous accesses that are less invasive and easier to insert compared to CVC and arterial lines.Methods: A prospective observational study was performed including stabilized critical patients with clinical indication to midline positioning before intensive care unit (ICU) discharge. The primary aim was to assess if venous sampling from MCs can be a reliable alternative to CVC for pH and CO2monitoring. The secondary aim was to evaluate the correlation between samplings from MC, CVC and arterial line with regards to pH, carbon dioxide tension (pCO2), lactates and electrolytes. Three samples from CVC, arterial line and MC were collected simultaneously. Agreement and correlation of the studied parameters between different sampling sites were explored.Results: 40 patients were included in the analysis. A good agreement for pH and pCO2was recorded between MC and CVC: mean differences were 0.001 (95% CI −0.006 to 0.007) and 0.7 (−0.1 to 1.5), percentage error 0.4% and 11.2%, respectively. Correlation between MC and both central venous and arterial samples for pH, pCO2, lactates and electrolytes was found to be moderate-to-strong (Pearson’s Rcoefficient range 0.59–0.99, p< 0.001 for all these parameters).Conclusions: In stabilized critical patients, midline catheters represent a reliable alternative to CVC and arterial lines to monitor acid-base disturbances, CO2levels and electrolytes. The present findings add to the known advantages of MC, which might be considered a first-line vascular access for non-critical or stabilized patients who do not require infusion of vesicant or irritant drugs.

Purpose: Grapevine (Vitis viniferaL.) is a relevant crop, which is associated to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) that are influenced by agricultural practices. The hypothesis of this study is that organic/biodynamic management stimulates grapevine mycorrhizal colonisation and increases AMF diversity in Chilean vineyards. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of agricultural management on AMF association and AMF diversity in Chilean vineyards. Methods: Mycorrhizal colonisation of grapevine roots from organic/biodynamic and conventional vineyards in Northern (Elqui Valley), Central (Casablanca and Cachapoal Valleys), and Southern Chile (Maule and Itata Valleys), was determined under a microscope. AMF diversity was analysed by morphological, and molecular characterisation of spores through SSU-ITS-LSU rRNA region sequence analyses. Results: AMF colonisation of grapevine roots was influenced by vineyard management independent of the season. Higher mycorrhizal colonisation was detected in organic/biodynamic grapevine soils (20 − 35%), compared with conventional soils (6 − 31%). Twelve AMF species were identified in vineyards, belonging to five Glomeromycota families. Interestingly, organic/biodynamic vineyards showed higher AMF diversity. The three predominant morphotypes were Funneliformis verruculosum(GL1), Septoglomussp. (GL4) and Septoglomus constrictum(GL5). Molecular analyses of AMF spores highlighted the occurrence of Septoglomus, Acaulospora, Pacisporaand Cetrasporagenera in vineyards. Conclusions: In this study, AMF diversity in Chilean vineyards is described for the first time. The diversity of AMF in vineyards in Chile was higher than the diversity reported in other wine-producing ecosystems. The understanding of agricultural practices on AMF activity and diversity may be crucial to improve the vineyard management.

Acinetobacter baumanniiis a bacteria associated with nosocomial infections and outbreaks, difficult to control due to its antibiotic resistance, ability to survive in adverse conditions, and biofilm formation adhering to biotic and abiotic surfaces. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antibiofilm activity of biogenic silver nanoparticle (Bio-AgNP) and polymyxin B alone and combined in biofilms formed by isolates of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii(CR-Ab). In the biofilm formation inhibition assay, CR-Ab strains were exposed to different concentrations of the treatments before inducing biofilm formation, to determine the ability to inhibit/prevent bacterial biofilm formation. While in the biofilm rupture assay, the bacterial biofilm formation step was previously carried out and the adhered cells were exposed to different concentrations of the treatments to evaluate their ability to destroy the bacterial biofilm formed. All CR-Ab isolates and ATCC®19606™ used in this study are strong biofilm formers. The antibiofilm activity of Bio-AgNP and polymyxin B against CR-Ab and ATCC®19606™ demonstrated inhibitory and biofilm-disrupting activity. When used in combination, Bio-AgNP and polymyxin B inhibited 4.9–100% of biofilm formation in the CR-Ab isolates and ATCC®19606™. Meanwhile, when Bio-AgNP and polymyxin B were combined, disruption of 6.8–77.8% of biofilm formed was observed. Thus, antibiofilm activity against CR-Ab was demonstrated when Bio-AgNP was used alone or in combination with polymyxin B, emerging as an alternative in the control of CR-Ab strains.

Inspired by AdS/CFT interpretation Karch and Robinson (2015), we analyze thermodynamics for thermal boundary conformal field theories (CFT) that are dual to four-dimensional charged anti-de Sitter (AdS) black holes embedded in 11-dimensional M-theory-inspired models with AdS4×S7space–time, employing the framework of Tsallis entropy. The latter is recognized as a nonadditive extension of the Boltzmann–Gibbs entropy that can satisfy the thermodynamic extensivity for black holes. Specifically, we consider AdS black holes in AdS4×S7spacetime, interpreting the number of M2-branes as a thermodynamic variable. Using the Tsallis entropy enables us to highlight peculiar thermodynamic features, resorting to essential tools such as the chemical potential and Gibbs energy while examining phase transitions along iso-charge partitions. Then, we leveraged a class of geometrothermodynamic formalisms, including Weinhold, Ruppeiner, Quevedo I, and II metrics. Quevedo’s formulations provide richer information about phase transitions than the first two methods. Our study sheds new light on AdS black holes in a thermodynamically proper context, deepening our understanding of the role of non-extensivity in the critical behavior of such complex systems.

This paper proposes performance evaluation of SiC MOSFETs power devices introducing in the device layout some specific design to achieve desired value of intrinsic gate resistance. This aspect can be helpful to eliminate external components such as gate resistance, saving space and cost, considering the application of the gate driver directly connected to the power device. Description about the layout modification of the device die is presented and dedicated simulation approach is set and exploited to predict the signal propagation on the die while verifying the gate resistance defined by the new layout structure. Experimental results including switching losses evaluations performed with double pulse tests sequence with half-bridge converter realized with new SiC MOSFETs devices, are also reported in the paper.

There is a growing incorporation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within remote and urban environments due to their versatility and ability to access hard-to-reach and/or congested places. UAVs offer low-cost solutions for many applications, including healthcare (e.g., medical supplies delivery) and surveillance during public events, protests, or emergencies (e.g., a nuclear accident). However, drone utilization in urban areas often relies on strict regulations to ensure safe and responsible operation. UAVs are subject to radiation-induced soft errors, and identifying the most vulnerable software and hardware components to radiation exposure is an advisable task, which is difficult to undertake. An essential task to UAVs correct operation is attitude estimation (AE). This article assesses the soft error reliability of three AE algorithms running on two resource-constrained microprocessors under neutron radiation. Results suggest that the extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm provides the best Mean Work to Failure (MWTF) result for critical fault events, which is about $3\times $ more than the indirect Kalman filter (IKF) and $1.5\times $ more with respect to the novel quaternion Kalman filter (NQKF) algorithm.

The presence of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) is increasingly frequent in lakes and water reservoirs, performing tasks such as monitoring water quality or delivering goods across the water. However, the emergence of such autonomous vessels raises concerns in terms of safety for people sharing the same environment and the risk of collisions with fixed structures and floating bodies, including other vessels. Therefore, the detection of obstacles and their reliable operation becomes primary in USVs. This work explores the effects caused by neutron radiation on an object detection algorithm tailored for USVs. Results report 77 silent data corruption (SDC)-induced failures, showing that radiation-induced soft errors contribute to missed and false detection of, respectively, existing and nonexistent objects. Furthermore, results suggest that object detection algorithms running with the multicore strategy ( $\text {FIT}_{\text {SDC}}$ rate of 34.3 at sea level and 308.6 at Lake Titicaca) exhibit a 16.4% greater resilience to SDCs compared to the single-core strategy.

The ESA/JAXA BepiColombo mission is currently on its way to Mercury, aiming to unveil the secrets held by the innermost planet of the Solar System. The radio tracking measurements, in combination with the data acquired by the onboard accelerometer, will enable a precise navigation of the spacecraft addressing the scientific objectives of the mission. A series of planetary flybys are required during the interplanetary transfer orbit to save propellant for the orbital insertion around Mercury. We present here a joint analysis of the radio tracking and accelerometer measurements collected during the second Venus flyby and the first two Mercury flybys. A precise orbit determination process is carried out to yield a combined adjustment of the spacecraft trajectory and parameters associated with dynamical and observational modeling. The accelerometer data enabled the detection of unmodeled dynamical perturbations including outgassing and thermal recoil. Our analysis of Mercury flybys allowed us for the first time to combine BepiColombo and MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry, and Ranging (MESSENGER) radiometric measurements, leading to significant improvements in the modeling of the gravitational forces.

IMPORTANCE: The 2022 Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer algorithm currently discourages liver resection (LR) for patients with multinodular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presenting with 2 or 3 nodules that are each 3 cm or smaller. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of liver resection (LR), percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA), and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with multinodular HCC. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This cohort study is a retrospective analysis conducted using data from the HE.RC.O.LE.S register (n = 5331) for LR patients and the ITA.LI.CA database (n = 7056) for PRFA and TACE patients. A matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) method was applied to balance data and potential confounding factors between the 3 groups. Included were patients from multiple centers from 2008 to 2020; data were analyzed from January to December 2023. INTERVENTIONS: LR, PRFA, or TACE. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were calculated. Cox MAIC-weighted multivariable analysis and competing risk analysis were used to assess outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 720 patients with early multinodular HCC were included, 543 males (75.4%), 177 females (24.6%), and 350 individuals older than 70 years (48.6%). There were 296 patients in the LR group, 240 who underwent PRFA, and 184 who underwent TACE. After MAIC, LR exhibited 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates of 89.11%, 70.98%, and 56.44%, respectively. PRFA showed rates of 94.01%, 65.20%, and 39.93%, while TACE displayed rates of 90.88%, 48.95%, and 29.24%. Multivariable Cox survival analysis in the weighted population showed a survival benefit over alternative treatments (PRFA vs LR: hazard ratio [HR], 1.41; 95% CI, 1.07-1.86; P = .01; TACE vs LR: HR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.29-2.68; P = .001). Competing risk analysis confirmed a lower risk of cancer-related death in LR compared with PRFA and TACE. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: For patients with early multinodular HCC who are ineligible for transplant, LR should be prioritized as the primary therapeutic option, followed by PRFA and TACE when LR is not feasible. These findings provide valuable insights for clinical decision-making in this patient population.

ABSTRACTThe classification of multi- and hyper-spectral imagery is essential for several remote sensing applications. However, several challenges still hinder the accuracy and efficiency of learning algorithms. In diverse remote sensing applications, the high spectral heterogeneity between and within classes is often an issue that adds uncertainties to the classification. Most classifiers do not consider the influence of non-target classes and variations in the spectral similarity level between classes during classification. This paper presents a novel learning strategy for remote sensing image classification, which exploits non-target classes to enhance the generation of classification masks and the performance of supervised methods for specific classes of interest. It produces multiple classification instances, based on the incorporation of counterexample information into the training data set, in order to refine the separation of classes of interest in the available feature space. The experimental results demonstrate the potential of the proposed counterexample assisted learning for road extraction, using high spatial-resolution imagery data.

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most frequent inherited bleeding disorder, with an estimated symptomatic prevalence of 1 per 1000 in the general population. VWD is characterized by defects in the quantity, quality, or multimeric structure of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a glycoprotein being hemostatically essential in circulation. VWD is classified into 3 principal types: low VWF/type 1 with partial quantitative deficiency of VWF, type 3 with virtual absence of VWF, and type 2 with functional abnormalities of VWF, being classified as 2A, 2B, 2M, and 2N. A new VWD type has been officially recognized by the ISTH SSC on von Willebrand factor which has also been discussed by the joint ASH/ISTH/NHF/WFH 2021 guidelines (ie, type 1C), indicating patients with quantitative deficiency due to an enhanced VWF clearance. With the advent of next-generation sequencing technologies, the process of genetic diagnosis has substantially changed and improved accuracy. Therefore, nowadays, patients with type 3 and severe type 1 VWD can benefit from genetic testing as much as type 2 VWD. Specifically, genetic testing can be used to confirm or differentiate a VWD diagnosis, as well as to provide genetic counseling. The focus of this manuscript is to discuss the current knowledge on VWD molecular pathophysiology and the application of genetic testing for VWD diagnosis.

Background and purpose Thrombus red blood cell (RBC) content has been shown to be a significant factor influencing the efficacy of acute ischemic stroke treatment. In this study, our objective was to evaluate the ability of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to predict ischemic stroke thrombus RBC content using multiparametric MR images.Materials and methods Retrieved stroke thrombi were scanned ex vivousing a three-dimensional multi-echo gradient echo sequence and histologically analyzed. 188 thrombus R2*, quantitative susceptibility mapping and late-echo GRE magnitude image slices were used to train and test a 3-layer CNN through cross-validation. Data augmentation techniques involving input equalization and random image transformation were employed to improve network performance. The network was assessed for its ability to quantitatively predict RBC content and to classify thrombi into RBC-rich and RBC-poor groups.Results The CNN predicted thrombus RBC content with an accuracy of 62% (95% CI 48–76%) when trained on the original dataset and improved to 72% (95% CI 60–84%) on the augmented dataset. The network classified thrombi as RBC-rich or poor with an accuracy of 71% (95% CI 58–84%) and an area under the curve of 0.72 (95% CI 0.57–0.87) when trained on the original dataset and improved to 80% (95% CI 69–91%) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.73–0.95), respectively, on the augmented dataset.Conclusions The CNN was able to accurately predict thrombus RBC content using multiparametric MR images, and could provide a means to guide treatment strategy in acute ischemic stroke.

Little is known either about either physical activity patterns, or other lifestyle-related prevention measures in heart transplantation (HTx) recipients. The history of HTx started more than 50 years ago but there are still no guidelines or position papers highlighting the features of prevention and rehabilitation after HTx. The aims of this scientific statement are (i) to explain the importance of prevention and rehabilitation after HTx, and (ii) to promote the factors (modifiable/non-modifiable) that should be addressed after HTx to improve patients’ physical capacity, quality of life and survival. All HTx team members have their role to play in the care of these patients and multidisciplinary prevention and rehabilitation programmes designed for transplant recipients. HTx recipients are clearly not healthy disease-free subjects yet they also significantly differ from heart failure patients or those who are supported with mechanical circulatory support. Therefore, prevention and rehabilitation after HTx both need to be specifically tailored to this patient population and be multidisciplinary in nature. Prevention and rehabilitation programmes should be initiated early after HTx and continued during the entire post-transplant journey. This clinical consensus

Copy number variants (CNVs) represent the genetic cause of about 15–20% of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). We identified a ~67 kb de novo intragenic deletion on chromosome 2q22.3 in a female individual showing a developmental encephalopathy characterised by epilepsy, severe intellectual disability, speech delay, microcephaly, and thin corpus callosum with facial dysmorphisms. The microdeletion involved exons 5-6 of GTDC1, encoding a putative glycosyltransferase, whose expression is particularly enriched in the nervous system. In a previous study, a balanced de novo translocation encompassing GTDC1was reported in a male child with global developmental delay and delayed speech and language development. Based on these premises, we explored the transcriptomic profile of our proband to evaluate the functional consequences of the novel GTDC1de novo intragenic deletion in relation to the observed neurodevelopmental phenotype. RNA-seq on the proband’s lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL) showed expression changes of glycine/serine and cytokine/chemokine signalling pathways, which are related to neurodevelopment and epileptogenesis. Subsequent analysis by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) revealed increased levels of glycine in the proband’s LCL and serum compared to matched controls. Given that an increased level of glycine has been observed in the plasma samples of individuals with Rett syndrome, a condition sharing epilepsy, microcephaly, and intellectual disability with our proband, we proposed that the GTDC1downregulation is implicated in neurodevelopmental impairment by altering glycine metabolism. Furthermore, our findings expanded the phenotypic spectrum of the novel GTDC1-related condition, including microcephaly and epilepsy among relevant clinical features.

Fungi are among the most diverse and ecologically important kingdoms in life. However, the distributional ranges of fungi remain largely unknown as do the ecological mechanisms that shape their distributions1,2. To provide an integrated view of the spatial and seasonal dynamics of fungi, we implemented a globally distributed standardized aerial sampling of fungal spores3. The vast majority of operational taxonomic units were detected within only one climatic zone, and the spatiotemporal patterns of species richness and community composition were mostly explained by annual mean air temperature. Tropical regions hosted the highest fungal diversity except for lichenized, ericoid mycorrhizal and ectomycorrhizal fungi, which reached their peak diversity in temperate regions. The sensitivity in climatic responses was associated with phylogenetic relatedness, suggesting that large-scale distributions of some fungal groups are partially constrained by their ancestral niche. There was a strong phylogenetic signal in seasonal sensitivity, suggesting that some groups of fungi have retained their ancestral trait of sporulating for only a short period. Overall, our results show that the hyperdiverse kingdom of fungi follows globally highly predictable spatial and temporal dynamics, with seasonality in both species richness and community composition increasing with latitude. Our study reports patterns resembling those described for other major groups of organisms, thus making a major contribution to the long-standing debate on whether organisms with a microbial lifestyle follow the global biodiversity paradigms known for macroorganisms4,5.

AbstractBrazil, a vital pineapple producer, faces phytosanitary challenges, mainly due to fusariosis caused by Fusarium guttiforme, which can lead to significant harvest losses. The frequent use of chemical fungicides has disadvantages because they are environmental contaminants. One option to avoid using these compounds is essential oils, which are of natural origin, biodegradable and have notable activity in controlling numerous pathogens. Thus, the present research aimed to evaluate in vitrothe potential of citronella essential oil to control the fungus F. guttiforme. The chemical identification of the essential oil components was conducted using gas chromatography with flame ionization detectors and mass spectrometry. The main compounds identified in citronella essential oil were citronellal (35.70%), geraniol (24.63%) and citronellol (15.98%). It was clear that the concentration of 1.050 μL mL−1of citronella essential oil promoted 100% inhibition of mycelial growth, with no statistically significant difference when compared to the positive control (Tecto® SC). These results confirm citronella essential oil’s remarkable in vitro potential in controlling the fungus F. guttiforme.

AbstractRé Island Bridge connects Île de Ré to the mainland on the west coast of France and crosses four navigable sea passes, with a maximum air clearance of 30 m above sea level. This bridge is 2926 m long and is famous for its rapidity of construction and the first use of high performance concrete for such a long bridge. The bridge deck consists of a prestressed concrete box girder divided into six independent viaducts. It was commissioned in 1988, and 30 years later, the rupture of an external prestressing tendon occurred inside the box girder. At first, the article introduces the emergency measures taken by the strategic bridge’s owner. Then it presents an analysis of the causes of the failure and the strategy developed by the owner to deal with the possible rupture of other tendons. Safety measures against the whiplash of tendons by the installation of straps around the tendons are described and the design of the strapping is discussed. The studies for the replacement of deficient tendons are then presented, with the difficulty of replacing tendons anchored in the half-joints between viaducts. Finally, managements decisions and lessons learned from that case are explained.

In arid and semiarid regions, salinity may affect alfalfa (Medicago sativa) productivity and survival due to either cultivation on salt‐affected soils or the use of salinized irrigation water. Exploiting germplasm evolved under salt‐stress conditions offers opportunities for crop tolerance improvement. In the first phase of the current study, four reportedly salt‐tolerant landraces originated from stress‐prone areas of West Asia or North Africa and two reference commercial cultivars underwent three evaluation trials according to different methods, namely, seed germination in saline water, in vitro testing of young plants, and greenhouse evaluation of adult plants in Cone‐tainers. Experimental populations obtained by intercrossing landrace genotypes selected according to each evaluation method were subsequently evaluated under stressful field conditions in two regions featuring different salt stress type, namely, southern Tunisia (irrigation with saline water) and northwestern Argentina (rainfed cropping in saline soil). Landrace ranking for salt tolerance differed somewhat depending on the evaluation method, and the proportion of selected plants per landrace depended accordingly on the method. In each field experiment, there were two evaluation phases, and the second phase corresponded in both cases to harsher conditions. The in vitro evaluation and selection resulted in potentially more useful selected germplasm than the other evaluation methods. The field experiments highlighted the large specific adaptation effects that affected the response of salt‐tolerant germplasm across the two regions. Cultivation on salt‐affected soils or the use of salinized irrigation water affects alfalfa productivity and survival.Landraces evolved in stress‐affected areas are valuable genetic resources for salt tolerance improvement.Selections for salt tolerance from different methods in controlled conditions differ for field‐based tolerance.In vitro evaluation and selection provided potentially more useful selected germplasm than other methods.Specific adaptation affected the field response of salt‐tolerant germplasm across different regions.