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Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease typically transmitted through animal bites. It affects all mammals, domestic and wild, as well as humans. The primary cause of the disease is the multiplication of a neurotropic rhabdovirus in the central nervous system, which almost always leads to fatal encephalomyelitis. This study aimed to describe a canine rabies outbreak in Ksour Municipality, province of Bordj Bou Arreridj (Algeria), and its impact on public health. The epidemiological investigation revealed that a stray local dog breed had bitten multiple people and domestic animals. Seven people, 5-76 years old, were bitten. However, children under 15 years old accounted for 28.57% of the cases. Males were the most commonly bitten (85.71%). All victims sustained severe category III injuries, predominantly located on the upper extremities (85.71%). Seven domestic animals were bitten, including six dogs and one donkey. The direct fluorescent antibody test (DFAT) and the mouse inoculation test (MIT) were both positive when applied and tested. The injured people received post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with rabies immunoglobulin and vaccination. Rabies remains endemic in the study area, with stray dogs acting as the primary transmission vectors through bites. A multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration among the national veterinary authority, human health services, political authorities, and local communities has been proven effective in rabies control.

This article discusses the identification of an unknown Robin coefficient in a fractional parabolic equation using a noisy measurement of the ultimate solution over time. The problem is quite complex, involving a nonlocal, nonlinear, and ill‐posed operator. To solve this problem, the article proposes a regularized optimization approach that minimizes a least‐squares cost function. The article also examines the various conceptual and real‐world challenges associated with this problem. The article demonstrates the presence of a singular and stable solution for the optimization problem. It utilizes the Morozov discrepancy principle and the conjugate gradient method to streamline the iterative reconstruction process. The proposed method is accurate and efficient, as several numerical examples demonstrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining the integrity and longevity of structures is essential in many industries, such as aerospace, nuclear, and petroleum. To achieve the cost-effectiveness of large-scale systems in petroleum drilling, a strong emphasis on structural durability and monitoring is required. This study focuses on the mechanical vibrations that occur in rotary drilling systems, which have a substantial impact on the structural integrity of drilling equipment. The study specifically investigates axial, torsional, and lateral vibrations, which might lead to negative consequences such as bit-bounce, chaotic whirling, and high-frequency stick-slip. These events not only hinder the efficiency of drilling but also lead to exhaustion and harm to the system's components since they are difficult to be detected and controlled in real time. The study investigates the dynamic interactions of these vibrations, specifically in their high-frequency modes, using field data obtained from measurement while drilling. The findings have demonstrated the effect of strong coupling between the high-frequency modes of these vibrations on drilling system performance. The obtained results highlight the importance of considering the interconnected impacts of these vibrations when designing and implementing robust control systems. Therefore, integrating these components can increase the durability of drill bits and drill strings, as well as improve the ability to monitor and detect damage. Moreover, by exploiting these findings, the assessment of structural resilience in rotary drilling systems can be enhanced. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the capacity of structural health monitoring to improve the quality, dependability, and efficiency of rotary drilling systems in the petroleum industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Vocabulary learning strategies (VLSs) can significantly impact the depth and breadth of vocabulary knowledge (VK) in second language learning. However, the role of self-regulation (SR) in the relationship between VLSs and VK has not been extensively examined, particularly in the context of learning Chinese as a second language (CSL). Furthermore, the effect of varying academic efforts, especially academic achievement and academic time management, on the interplay between VLSs, SR, and VK remains largely unexplored. This study investigated 214 students enrolled in a Chinese program at a Vietnamese university to better understand these dynamics. The findings suggest that VLSs, through the mediation of SR, indirectly influenced the breadth, but not the depth, of VK. Additional research examined the impact of academic efforts on VLSs, SR, and VK. Structural equation modeling revealed that the final examination results significantly influenced the relationship between learners’ SR and the breadth of their VK, whereas the midterm examination results did not have a similar impact. As for the academic time management, it was found to affect SR but did not significantly impact the overall model. This demonstrates that a well-structured study time can enhance Vietnamese university students’ focus and emotional regulation, thereby improving their CSL learning.

Abstract Work-related quality of life has emerged as a central focus in the field of occupational health due to its impact on individual well-being and overall quality of life. So, it is crucial to enhance the current theory by conducting a study on the concept across different sectors. Also, the specific mechanisms through which perceived social support influences work-related quality of life remain underexplored. The role of psychological distress as a potential mediator in this relationship has not been investigated. Thus, the study aimed to explore the mediating role of psychological distress in this relationship, while also examining potential gender differences. The study, conducted with 401 teachers through a questionnaire, utilized the AMOS program for data analysis. The findings supported the direct effects among the variables and the mediating role of psychological distress. Additionally, the impact of psychological distress on work-related quality of life was found to be higher for females, but no differences for other paths. The study contributes to the literature by addressing the gap in understanding the mechanisms regarding work-related quality of life. The results highlight the importance of considering psychological distress and gender differences in interventions aimed at improving work-related quality of life.

Abstract Cultured meat needs edible bio-scaffolds that provide not only a growth milieu for muscle and adipose cells, but also biomimetic stiffness and tissue-sculpting topography. Current meat-engineering technologies struggle to achieve scalable cell production, efficient cell differentiation, and tissue maturation in one single culture system. Here we propose an autoclaving strategy to transform common vegetables into muscle- and adipose-engineering scaffolds, without undergoing conventional plant decellularization. We selected vegetables with natural anisotropic and isotropic topology mimicking muscle and adipose microstructures respectively. We further adjusted vegetable stiffness by autoclaving, to emulate the mechanical properties of animal tissues. Autoclaved vegetables preserve rich cell-affinitive moieties, yielding a good cell culture effect with simplified processing. Autoclaved Chinese chive and Shiitake mushroom with anisotropic micro-patterns support the scalable expansion of muscle cells, improved cell alignment and myogenesis. Autoclaved isotropic loofah encourages adipocyte proliferation and lipid accumulation. Our engineered muscle- and fat-on-vegetables can further construct meat stuffing or layered meat chips. Autoclaved vegetables possess tissue-mimicking stiffness and topology, and bring biochemical benefits, operational ease, cost reduction and bioreactor compatibility. Without needing decellularization, these natural biomaterials may see scale-up applications in meat analog bio-fabrication.

Abstract Background Differences in cannabinoid metabolism and patient responses can arise even with equivalent doses and formulations. Genetic polymorphisms in genes responsible for cannabinoid metabolism and medications that alter CYP450 pathways responsible for metabolism of cannabinoids may account for some of this variability. Materials and methods A retrospective chart review was conducted on a cohort of unselected patients who had previously completed pharmacogenomic testing and reported oral cannabis use, as defined as “oral” or “by mouth” route of administration. The objective was to identify atypical variants and medications in this cohort and formulate a hypothesis on how these variables influence the metabolism of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). Results Oral cannabis use was confirmed in 71 patients, with an average age of 68.5 years, and primarily white women. Of the 71 patients, 10 had no atypical variants; 31 had atypical variants in CYP2C9; 37 had atypical variants in CYP2C19; 6 had atypical variants in CYP3A4; and 15 had atypical variants in CYP3A5. Of the 71 patients, 5 were taking medications that could interact with THC, and 8 were taking medications that could interact with CBD. Conclusion The results this study reveal the spectrum of hypothesized alterations in THC and CBD metabolism due to atypical genetic variants and medications. The absence of published clinical outcomes in this field renders it challenging to estimate clinical significance of these findings. Until such data become available, clinicians should remain aware of the possibility that atypical variants and medications may impact patients’ responses to THC and CBD.

This paper highlights the crucial role of Indonesia’s GNSS receiver network in advancing Equatorial Plasma Bubble (EPB) studies in Southeast and East Asia, as ionospheric irregularities within EPB can disrupt GNSS signals and degrade positioning accuracy. Managed by the Indonesian Geospatial Information Agency (BIG), the Indonesia Continuously Operating Reference Station (Ina-CORS) network comprises over 300 GNSS receivers spanning equatorial to southern low-latitude regions. Ina-CORS is uniquely situated to monitor EPB generation, zonal drift, and dissipation across Southeast Asia. We provide a practical tool for EPB research, by sharing two-dimensional rate of Total Electron Content (TEC) change index (ROTI) derived from this network. We generate ROTI maps with a 10-minute resolution, and samples from May 2024 are publicly available for further scientific research. Two preliminary findings from the ROTI maps of Ina-CORS are noteworthy. First, the Ina-CORS ROTI maps reveal that the irregularities within a broader EPB structure persist longer, increasing the potential for these irregularities to migrate farther eastward. Second, we demonstrate that combined ROTI maps from Ina-CORS and GNSS receivers in East Asia and Australia can be used to monitor the development of ionospheric irregularities in Southeast and East Asia. We have demonstrated the combined ROTI maps to capture the development of ionospheric irregularities in the Southeast/East Asian sector during the G5 Geomagnetic Storm on May 11, 2024. We observed simultaneous ionospheric irregularities in Japan and Australia, respectively propagating northwestward and southwestward, before midnight, whereas Southeast Asia’s equatorial and low-latitude regions exhibited irregularities post-midnight. By sharing ROTI maps from Indonesia and integrating them with regional GNSS networks, researchers can conduct comprehensive EPB studies, enhancing the understanding of EPB behavior across Southeast and East Asia and contributing significantly to ionospheric research.

Accurate epicenter location is crucial for assessing seismic hazards and risks, investigating seismicity, and exploring the Earth’s internal structure. Numerous global institutions routinely release earthquake catalogs, providing the earthquake source parameters such as epicenter locations. Nonetheless, disparities in epicenter locations reported by these catalogs can arise due to the variation in seismic station data, crust-mantle velocity models, and earthquake localization methodologies employed. InSAR data, characterized by its high spatial resolution, provides reasonable positional constraints on shallow earthquakes, offering ground truth (GT) and serving as a key basis for evaluating the accuracy of earthquake epicenter locations. This study selected a series of earthquakes of approximately magnitude 5 in Southwestern China, recorded by seismological and InSAR data. The discrepancies between the epicenter determinations of earthquake catalogs and InSAR measurements were compared to assess the accuracy of the China Earthquake Network Center (CENC) and USGS/NEIC catalogs in this specific region. The results indicate that the most significant discrepancy between the CENC catalog and InSAR-derived epicenters was 12 km, with longitudinal differences ranging from −0.04° to 0.13° and a marginally smaller latitudinal variance of −0.05° to 0.06°. In comparison, the maximum difference between the USGS earthquake catalog and InSAR epicenters was 20 km, with a longitudinal and latitudinal difference of −0.21°～0.13° and −0.10°～0.08°, respectively. The CENC catalog provided more accurate epicenter locations for most of the earthquake events. However, for individual events, the epicenter locations given by CENC deviate from the InSAR results by a significant amount, which may be attributed to the distribution of seismic stations, among other factors.

Background: The utilization of Artificial intelligence (AI) computer systems is widespread globally, and the growing body of data in diverse scientific fields highlights the significance and requirement of computer-aided, advanced AI systems in contemporary educational systems. AI is becoming more and more of a versatile actor in the medical sciences, spanning all specializations and including diagnostics. Pharmaceutical companies, payers, and healthcare providers are already using various forms of AI. It’s related techniques (machine to deep learning) are frequently employed in disease diagnosis, treatment procedure, and in the evaluation of its side effect. AI techniques utilizes various types of medical diagnostics test data in order to disease diagnosis such as MRI, CT scan, MRI and biochemistry lab reports etc. Better patient-physician communication, remote patient treatment, transcribing prescriptions and other medical documents, and ethical dilemmas are all aided by AI. While humans are still faster at some jobs than computers, the accuracy of modern computer algorithms has lately surpassed that of human experts in the medical sciences. There exist speculations suggesting that medical science roles will eventually be supplanted by people. The current article focused on how AI is transforming medical science along with allied health sector and helping to distinguish between hype and truth, as well as how it might be used to resolve ethical dilemmas and intellectual property rights issues.

Actualizing the near net-shaping of lightweight aluminum (Al) alloys with both superior mechanical performance and complex geometry remains challenging. To address this issue, novel Al–Ti–C–B (TCB) master alloy powders were tailored as effective inoculators and introduced into the AlSi10Mg alloy powders to promote the heterogeneous nucleation of α-Al during powder bed fusion using laser beam (PBF-LB), leading to pronounced heterogeneous microstructure with bimodal fine-grains and improved distribution of eutectic Si. The modified alloy with a more refined and homogeneous microstructure exhibited an excellent strength–ductility combination due to microstructure modification, outperforming most previously reported commercial Al–Si alloys.

The main objective of the present research is to probe how ageing time influences the morphological, mechanical, and wear behaviour of stir cast Al–Si–Mg alloy, reinforced with 10 wt% Si3N4 particles subsequently heat treated in T6 condition. The findings reveal that the presence of Si3N4 reinforcements, followed by the heat treatment, enhances the mechanical and tribological properties of the composite. The ensuing mechanical properties show significant improvement prior to aging heat treatment (180 °C/4h), reaching a hardness of 120.8 HV (45 % increase) and tensile strength of 275 MPa (50 % increment), respectively compared to as-cast composite. Fractography reveals dimples, transgranular cleavage surfaces, cracks, and micro-ploughing. Among the samples tested, the composite aged for 4 h (180 °C/4h, ASN-4) demonstrates the lowest wear rate. Abrasive and adhesive wear in combination is the primary wear mechanism in these samples. Overall, this research provides insights for research endeavors in manufacturing various components in the aerospace industry.

We propose a hybrid blockchain-based framework for multi-operator resource sharing and SLA management in 5G Standalone (5GSA) networks. Leveraging Hyperledger Fabric (HLF), we implement secure resource sharing between multiple seller Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and a single buyer MNO, evaluating HLF’s performance in terms of transaction latency and throughput. The framework incorporates a two-level Multi-Leader Single-Follower (MLSF) Stackelberg game to model pricing and buying strategies. For the upper-layer game, we determine the pricing strategies of seller MNOs using Pattern Search Algorithm (PSA), Genetic Algorithm (GA), and Fmincon, comparing their performances. In the lower-layer game, we design a Lagrange multiplier-based solution for the buyer MNO’s strategy, benchmarking it against PSA, GA, and Fmincon. Our framework also employs smart contracts for SLA automation and enforcement, utilizing Ethereum and IOTA-EVM blockchains. These contracts are implemented with Hardhat and deployed across Goerli, Linea-Goerli, Sepolia, Polygon (Mumbai), and Shimmer EVM Testnets. We measure key metrics, such as transaction latency and throughput, to evaluate the performance of our SLA management system. Results demonstrate the framework’s effectiveness in enhancing resource allocation and SLA enforcement in 5G networks, highlighting the capabilities of different blockchain platforms in managing complex network operations.

The Mentawai Forearc Sliver (MFS) is characterized by oblique deformation formed as slip partitioned between normal and parallel trench plate convergence. The surge of great earthquakes from 2004 to 2012 along the adjacent Sunda trench left a large unbroken segment known as the Mentawai Seismic Gap. Here, we adopted continuous Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observation data to identify the present regional crustal deformation using geodetic strain rates. The principal strain rate, dilatation rate, and maximum shear strain rate are about 0.13 microstrain/yr, 0.2 microstrain/yr, and 0.1 microstrain/yr, respectively, with the range of its uncertainties between 0.01 and 0.04 microstrain/yr. The dilatation and maximum shear strain rates reveal the spatial coverage of strike-slip duplex and backthrust tectonics along the Mentawai Forearc Sliver.

Abstract We explore the holographic time-like entanglement entropy (TEE) in the boundary theory of three-dimensional Lifshitz spacetime. There have been various holographic proposals for TEE in recent years and we test those proposals in the Lifshitz background. We obtain the analytic result for TEE in each proposal, compare the results, and analyze how the anisotropic scaling affects the TEE. We find that different holographic proposals give the same result for TEE in the Lifshitz background. Our analysis further suggests that the TEE of the Lifshitz system contains real and imaginary parts, both of which depend on the anisotropic parameter.

Abstract Background Microvascular decompression (MVD) is the gold-standard surgical treatment for cranial nerve compression disorders, including trigeminal neuralgia (TN), hemifacial spasm (HFS), and glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN). This review synthesizes historical milestones, recent advances, and evolving techniques in MVD, with a primary focus on these conditions. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, BioMed Central, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. Studies published between 1970 and 2024 were analyzed, emphasizing surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, and technological innovations in MVD. Articles addressing TN, HFS, GPN, and other cranial nerve disorders treated with MVD were selected for detailed evaluation. Results MVD demonstrates high efficacy, with 80–90% of patients achieving immediate symptom relief. Nevertheless, 15–25% of patients experience symptom recurrence, though long-term outcomes remain favorable. Fully endoscopic MVD has shown potential for enhanced intraoperative visualization, particularly in complex anatomical regions; however, its impact on surgical precision and clinical outcomes is still under investigation. Moreover, innovations in visualization technologies, including three-dimensional exoscopic systems and artificial intelligence-assisted surgery, continue to improve procedural safety and outcomes. Despite these advancements, complications such as hearing loss (1–2%) and cerebrospinal fluid leakage (2–4%) persist, highlighting the need for continuous refinement of techniques. Conclusions MVD is evolving with the integration of cutting-edge technologies, resulting in improved clinical outcomes and reduced complication rates. Emerging innovations such as robotic-assisted MVD and gene therapies for cranial nerve disorders, including TN and GPN, promise even greater efficacy and precision. However, further research is necessary to standardize surgical protocols and address disparities in healthcare systems globally. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Microbiome abnormalities (dysbiosis) significantly contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the therapeutic efficacy of microbiome modulators in protecting against these ailments remains poorly studied. Herein, we tested a cocktail of unique probiotics, including 5 Lactobacillus and 5 Enterococcus strains isolated from infant gut with proven microbiome modulating capabilities. We aimed to determine the probiotics cocktail’s efficacy in ameliorating AD pathology in a humanized AD mouse model of APP/PS1 strains. Remarkably, feeding mice with 1 × 1011 CFU per day in drinking water for 16 weeks significantly reduced cognitive decline (measured by the Morris Water Maze test) and AD pathology markers, such as Aβ aggregation, microglia activation, neuroinflammation, and preserved blood-brain barrier (BBB) tight junctions. The beneficial effects were linked to a reduced inflammatory microbiome, leading to decreased gut permeability and inflammation in both systemic circulation and the brain. Although both male and female mice showed overall improvements in cognition and biological markers, females did not exhibit improvements in specific markers related to inflammation and barrier permeability, suggesting that the underlying mechanisms may differ depending on sex. In conclusion, our results suggest that this unique probiotics cocktail could serve as a prophylactic agent to reduce the progression of cognitive decline and AD pathology. This is achieved by beneficially modulating the microbiome, improving intestinal tight junction proteins, reducing permeability in both gut and BBB, and decreasing inflammation in the gut, blood circulation, and brain, ultimately mitigating AD pathology and cognitive decline.

Abstract The mechanistic link between the complex mutational landscape of de novo methyltransferase DNMT3A and the pathology of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has not been clearly elucidated so far. Motivated by a recent discovery of the significance of DNMT3A-destabilizing mutations (DNMT3A INS) in AML, we here investigate the common characteristics of DNMT3A INS AML methylomes through computational analyses. We present that methylomes of DNMT3A INS AMLs are considerably different from those of DNMT3A R882 AMLs in that they exhibit increased intratumor DNA methylation heterogeneity in bivalent chromatin domains. This epigenetic heterogeneity was associated with the transcriptional variability of developmental and membrane-associated factors shaping stem cell niche, and also was a predictor of the response of AML cells to hypomethylating agents, implying that the survival of AML cells depends on stochastic DNA methylations at bivalent domains. Altogether, our work provides a novel mechanistic model suggesting the genomic origin of the aberrant epigenomic heterogeneity in disease conditions.

Abstract Gum Arabic (GA) is a natural ingredient used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Numerous studies have been conducted on the physicochemical properties and applications of GA. This study aimed to map knowledge and perform a bibliometric analysis of GA research (GAR) for over a century ago. A search was carried out in the Scopus database using relevant terms and Boolean operators (Gum Arabic OR Acacia gum, OR gum sudani), and data-driven documents in English were extracted. The extracted data included citations, bibliographical and geographical information, abstracts, and keywords. The CVS and BibTex data files were analyzed using VOSviewer and Bibliometrix platforms, respectively. The annual increase in GAR is incremental, consisting of 5313 documents over 108 years and produced by 27 scientific disciplines. The three most productive countries are India, China, and the United States. The rate of international co-authorship was 22.07%, with China being the most collaborative country. Food Hydrocolloids is the most prestigious source. Phillips, G.O., is the most prolific, cited, and co-cited author. Four clusters were detected based on the co-citation analysis of the authors. The most frequent terms in the GAR were “nanoparticles,” “carbon nanotubes,” “stability,” “rats,” “microencapsulation,” and ”lipase.” “Carbon nanotubes” and “microencapsulation” are evolving subjects in GAR. 2000 and 2010 are the turning points in GAR’s thematic evolution. “Ultrasound,” “Pickering emulsion,” “sensory evaluation,” “bioactive compounds,” “cytotoxicity,” and “green synthesis” are the trending topics. Our findings reveal the most common scientific research on GAR, with the physiochemical qualities of GA as a dietary and pharmaceutical constituent being the most common. The marketing, production, tapping, and processing of GA requires further investigation. Graphical Abstract

The SMAP microwave radiometer's antenna temperature (TA) is computed from the radiometer outputs using a conventional two-point calibration method. The receiver's gain and noise temperature are calibrated using the internal reference load and internal noise diode. Then, the TA is derived. To provide an alternative to the current internal calibration approach for the SMAP L-band microwave radiometer and to determine the potential for reducing hardware for and cost of future projects, one-point calibration is studied. In this work, the internal reference load is used as the single source for one-point calibration, and the receiver noise temperature is modeled. The performance of the one-point calibration is validated by comparing the calibrated TAs, their uncertainties, and long-term calibration drifts to those of the conventional two-point calibration. Comparison results show that one-point calibration can achieve comparable performance, i.e., no larger than 0.07 K rms difference in calibrated TA, to the conventional two-point calibration. In addition, the long-term stability of the internal noise source is also included in the analysis.

Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are rare neoplasms that can occur in various locations, including the central nervous system (CNS). We present a case report of a 47-year-old male patient with an intracranial SFT who underwent subtotal resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. The patient initially presented with chronic left temporal headache and was diagnosed with an intra-axial double-component mass in the left temporoparietal lobe. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of SFT, and immunohistochemical staining demonstrated positivity for CD34, Bcl-2, and STAT6. Following the incomplete resection, the patient received adjuvant radiotherapy using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique. During radiotherapy, the patient experienced a spontaneous encephalocele rupture but recovered without complications. One year postradiotherapy, the patient showed no recurrence of symptoms or radiological evidence of tumor recurrence. This case highlights the challenges in the diagnosis and management of CNS SFTs and suggests that subtotal resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy may be an effective treatment approach in achieving favorable outcomes for these rare neoplasms.

BackgroundEstablishing and maintaining gamma knife facility incurs significant costs, mandating healthcare institutions to meticulously assess financial implications for sustainability.MethodsThis study explores the financial implications of setting up and operating a Gamma Knife facility, with an aim to ascertain user charges for achieving breakeven. The study was conducted from January to June 2019 at the largest neurosurgery centre of an Institute of National Importance (INI), in Delhi, India. Applying both Traditional and Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing (TD-ABC) methodologies, capital and operating expenses were calculated. (1US$ = INR 70.4 -Average value for the year 2019).ResultsThe average cost per gamma knife radio surgery procedure was calculated to be US $2,469 (INR 1,73,832), with major costs attributed to machinery & equipment (43.6%), followed by manpower (32.5%), electricity (9.67%), equipment maintenance (8.61%) etc. The initial investment to establish a Gamma Knife facility is significantly higher with an MRI unit (Model A) at US $ 9,836,423 (INR 69,24,84,164) compared to one without (Model B) at US $7,294,986 (INR 51,35,66,988). Currently, the patient has to pay US $1,065 (INR 75,000) for a gamma knife radio surgery, which poses a challenge for achieving breakeven since the variable cost for the same is US $1,367 (INR 96,239) per procedure.ConclusionThe study serve as a tool for strategic planning, pricing adjustments, and enhancing operational efficiencies, thus ensuring that such high-end technologies can be sustainably integrated into the public healthcare landscape of a developing country like India.

In the Anthropocene, monitoring and assessing biodiversity and taking conservation measures due to declining biodiversity is an urgent task. However, resource and time constraints make it unfeasible for biodiversity surveys to cover all taxonomic groups; hence, finding alternative shortcuts, such as biodiversity indicators, is necessary. We compared the effectiveness of obligate brood parasitic cuckoos as biological indicators with raptors, a previously recognized indicator species, across ecogeographic regions of China based on different components of biodiversity (e.g. taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity). The results showed that the number of cuckoo species had significant positive correlations with taxonomic diversity (TD), phylogenetic diversity (PD), and functional richness (FRic) of passerines but no significant correlation with evolutionary distinctness (ED) or evolutionary distinct and globally endangered (EDGE). In contrast, raptors showed a significant positive correlation only with EDGE. The greater number of factors associated with cuckoos suggests that they exhibit superior performance as biodiversity indicators compared to raptors. However, this does not undermine the significance of raptors as indicators. Selecting the indicator is context-dependent, with cuckoos being suitable for routine surveys, monitoring overall avian diversity, and raptors being suitable for assessing the status of endangered birds, conducting conservation measures, and measuring their effectiveness. We anticipate cuckoos to gain more public attention as a paradigm of biodiversity indicators and be put into practice.

BACKGROUND: Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS), also known as eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), is a rare form of systemic vasculitis characterized by asthma, eosinophilia, and multi-organ involvement. The syndrome primarily affects the lungs, heart, and kidneys. Managing CSS becomes even more challenging in patients with additional comorbidities like chronic kidney disease (CKD) and HIV, particularly when considering the risks associated with immunosuppressive therapy, which is standard for CSS but can exacerbate the immunosuppressed state in HIV-positive individuals. Case: A 34-year-old Sudanese male with no history of smoking, except for occasional sheesha use (2-3 times per week for one year), presented with multiple symptoms. The patient had been diagnosed with hypertension four months prior and CKD five months before this presentation, for which he was undergoing regular hemodialysis. He also had a history of asthma diagnosed five months earlier, managed with salbutamol and symbicort nebulizers. His hypertension was controlled with candesartan 16 mg and nifedipine 24 mg daily. The patient reported shortness of breath, particularly exacerbated by exercise, dialysis, and hot weather, which was relieved by Atrovent. He also had a two-week history of fever, primarily during dialysis, along with headache, rigors, a single episode of vomiting, recurrent epistaxis, and weight loss of 5 kg over five months. Additionally, he experienced numbness in both upper and lower limbs, generalized body swelling, and altered bowel habits. THE CASE: The patient appeared unwell, distressed, and dyspneic. Physical examination revealed raised jugular venous pressure, bilateral wheezing, fine crackles in the chest, mild lower limb edema, flat feet, and lower limb paresthesia. There was no evidence of pallor, jaundice, purpura, lymphadenopathy, skin nodules, or hemoptysis. Initial laboratory investigations showed anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and significant renal impairment. A chest X-ray revealed interstitial infiltrates with prominent bronchovascular markings. Follow-up tests showed improved hemoglobin levels but persistent renal impairment. Urinalysis revealed red blood cells (RBCs) and pus cells, while malaria was ruled out. Diagnosis: Based on the clinical presentation, including the history of asthma, eosinophilia, and multi-organ involvement, the patient was diagnosed with Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS). Additionally, the patient developed septicemia secondary to an infected permicath catheter, and subsequent HIV testing returned positive. The presence of HIV further complicated the management of CSS, as the standard immunosuppressive therapy posed a risk of worsening the patient’s immunocompromised state. The patient received emergency dialysis and broad-spectrum antibiotics, including meropenem and vancomycin, to treat the septicemia. The infected permicath catheter was replaced with an arteriovenous catheter to reduce the risk of recurrent infections. Despite the diagnosis of CSS, immunosuppressive therapy was deferred due to the patient’s HIV status, given the increased risk of opportunistic infections. CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the complexities of managing Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) in a patient with multiple comorbidities, including CKD and HIV. The coexistence of these conditions presents significant therapeutic challenges. This case underscores the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach and tailored treatment plans to optimize outcomes in patients with complex, overlapping medical conditions.

Abstract Researchers working with thin samples, such as monolayer graphene, are consistently struggling against contamination. Indeed, the problem of hydrocarbon contamination is known from the earliest days of electron microscopy and efforts to reduce this problem are ubiquitous to almost all high‐vacuum experiments. Accurate knowledge of the behavior of such contamination is essential for electron beam (e‐beam) based atomic fabrication, where it is aspired to select and control matter on an atom‐by‐atom basis. Here, the vexing question of hydrocarbon contamination on graphene is taken up. Image intensity is used to directly reveal the presence of diffusing hydrocarbons on ostensibly clean graphene. These diffusing hydrocarbons are previously inferred but not directly observed. Surprising dynamic variations of the concentration of these hydrocarbons impels questions about their origin. Here, some possible explanations are presented and some tentative conclusions are drawn. This work updates the conceptual model of “clean graphene” and offers refinements to the description of e‐beam induced hydrocarbon deposition.

Summary: CD8+ T cell exhaustion (Tex) has been widely acknowledged in human cancer, while the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that reduced amino acid (aa) metabolism and mTOR inactivation are accountable for Tex in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC cells impede the T cell-intrinsic transcription of SLC7A5 and SLC38A1, disrupting aa transport and consequently leading to mTOR inactivation. Further, the ubiquitination of YAP1 protein is the basis for NSCLC-mediated transcriptional inhibition of aa transporters. Mechanistically, NSCLC cells transfer β-TrCP-containing exosomes into T cells, inducing YAP1 ubiquitination and Tex. Consequently, inhibiting cancer-associated β-TrCP effectively restores the anti-tumor immune response of CD8+ T cells and curtails tumor growth in NSCLC patient-derived organoids. Together, our findings highlight a β-TrCP-dependent mechanism in steering intrinsic metabolic adaptation and CD8+ Tex, emphasizing microenvironmental β-TrCP as an immune checkpoint for therapeutic exploration against human NSCLC.

Extrinsic cues are widely used by researchers to develop consumers’ perceptions of food. This study aimed to investigate how consumer perceptions and emotional responses to roti prepared by replacing the proportion of wheat flour with wheat bran (an agriculture by-product) were affected by rational and emotional sustainability appeals. The experimental design included three evaluation sessions. Four different samples of roti were developed from four different bran-wheat proportions. Results showed that rational and emotional sustainability appeals affected the sensory perception of 10–90% and 20–80% of bran-wheat roti samples. However, sustainability appeal had no significant effect on the 30–70% bran-wheat roti sample. Results also show that responses under blind condition were associated with negative emotions, while responses under sustainability appeals were associated with positive emotions. Rational sustainability appeal was heavily associated with positive emotions as compared to emotional appeal.

Projected entangled pair states (PEPS) are a class of quantum many-body states that generalize matrix product states for one-dimensional systems to higher dimensions. In recent years, PEPS have advanced understanding of strongly correlated systems, especially in two dimensions, e.g., quantum spin liquids. Typically described by tensor networks on regular lattices (e.g., square, cubic), PEPS have also been adapted for irregular graphs; however, the computational cost becomes prohibitive for dense graphs with large vertex degrees. In this paper, we present a PEPS algorithm to simulate low-energy states and dynamics defined on arbitrary, fluctuating, and densely connected graphs. We introduce a cut-off, κ∈N, to constrain the vertex degree of the PEPS to a set but tunable value, which is enforced in the optimization by applying a simple edge-deletion rule, allowing the geometry of the PEPS to change and adapt dynamically to the system's correlation structure. We benchmark our flexible PEPS algorithm with simulations of classical spin glasses and quantum annealing on densely connected graphs with hundreds of spins, and also study the impact of tuning κ when simulating a uniform quantum spin model on a regular (square) lattice. Our paper opens the way to apply tensor network algorithms to arbitrary, even fluctuating, background geometries.

This paper presents a containerized development platform suitable for developing and validating advanced microgrids (MGs). Through a collaborative effort involving the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) within the technical-scientific research project titled Minirrede Oasis-UFMG and the State and Federal government, the Tesla containerized MG emerges as a physical simulation tool on advanced MG projects in both islanded and grid-connected operating modes. Installed at the Tesla Laboratory located in the UFMG School of Engineering, Brazil, Tesla MG is composed of (i) eleven distributed energy resources (DERs), which supply around 33 kW; (ii) one single-phase gas-driven synchronous generator (SG), with a power rating of 11 kW; (iii) one 7.5 kW three-phase diesel-driven SG; and (iv) 30 kVA 4-quadrant programmable AC load and source. All these devices are commercially available off-the-shelf equipment. Photovoltaic modules and different battery technologies are installed outside and inside the container, respectively, with cabling extending to the container to connect these components to the inverters. Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platforms for real-time simulations (i.e., Opal RT OP5700 and Typhoon HILs 402 and 604) are also available to support MG research. Experimental results are provided to demonstrate the capabilities of the Tesla MG, specifically focusing on inverter features, power dispatchability in grid-connected mode, and proper operation in islanded mode.

Liver cancer is the sixth most frequent malignancy and the fourth major cause of deaths worldwide. The current treatments are only effective in early stages of cancer. To overcome the therapeutic challenges and exploration of immunotherapeutic options, broad spectral therapeutic vaccines could have significant impact. Based on immunoinformatic and integrated machine learning tools, we predicted the potential therapeutic vaccine candidates of liver cancer. In this study, machine learning and MD simulation-based approach are effectively used to design T-cell epitopes that aid the immune system against liver cancer. Antigenicity, molecular weight, subcellular localization and expression site predictions were used to shortlist liver cancer associated proteins including AMBP, CFB, CDHR5, VTN, APOBR, AFP, SERPINA1 and APOE. We predicted CD8+ T-cell epitopes of these proteins containing LGEGATEAE, LLYIGKDRK, EDIGTEADV, QVDAAMAGR, HLEARKKSK, HLCIRHEMT, LKLSKAVHK, EQGRVRAAT and CD4+ T-cell epitopes of VLGEGATEA, WVTKQLNEI, VEEDTKVNS, FTRINCQGK, WGILGREEA, LQDGEKIMS, VKFNKPFVF, VRAATVGSL. We observed the substantial physicochemical properties of these epitopes with a significant binding affinity with MHC molecules. A polyvalent construct of these epitopes was designed using suitable linkers and adjuvant indicated significant binding energy (>-10.5 kcal/mol) with MHC class-I and II molecule. Based on in silico cloning, we found the considerable compatibility of this polyvalent construct with the E. coli expression system and the efficiency of its translation in host. The system-level and machine learning based cross validations showed the possible effect of these T-cell epitopes as potential vaccine candidates for the treatment of liver cancer.

Precipitate phases provide precipitation strengthening effects but worsen fatigue properties. A Solid Solution-Forging-Austempering (SFA) process was presented aimed at breaking the trade-off between fatigue performance and hardness of Ti-containing wear-resistant bainitic steel, and the impressive strength-ductility balance of 26.16GPa% was achieved. The SFA process refined the primary TiC and introduced strain-induced TiC with a coherent interface with the matrix. During the cyclic forging process, the grain boundaries pinning effect by strain-induced TiC refined the prior austenite grains which led to a completer bainite transformation during the austempering process, thereby promoting the thinning of retained austenite (RA). The fatigue behavior dominated by RA morphology was delved. Results indicated that the uneven strain distribution inside blocky RA contributed to its uneven transformation to martensite, consequently promoting fatigue crack initiation at interfaces. Conversely, film-like RA exhibited a uniform strain distribution, resulting in a more uniform transformation to martensite. Consequently, film-like RA significantly enhanced the fatigue wear performance of bainitic steel. Since fatigue performance exhibited different dominance over wear performance under different wear conditions, the amount ratio of primary TiC to strain-induced TiC can be altered by adjusting the Ti addition to meet the requirements of fatigue performance under different wear conditions.

The Al2O3: Cr3+ light-converting materials were successfully synthesized via co-precipitation, resulting in a grain size ranging from 100 to 400 nm. Under excitation wavelengths spanning from 360 to 650 nm, a distinct near-infrared (NIR) emission at 695 nm was observed. Through optimization, it has been established that a Cr3+ doping concentration of 1.0 mol% results from the optimal emission intensity. The material shows relatively stable in water and it was employed to cultivate the H9C2 cells, and the NIR emission from the cells was observed, indicating the successful absorption of the material by the cells. Additionally, the toxicity of the material was examined, by reducing the concentration to 2 nM/mL, the toxicity of the material was significantly reduced to a promising level. Therefore, the suitable grain size, NIR emission and the biocompatibility renders this material a candidate in cell imaging.

Objective This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors for neonatal sepsis among neonates admitted to selected health facilities in the Bamako district and Koulikoro region in Mali.Design This is a prospective cross-sectional study. Data were analyses using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.Setting This facility-based study was conducted in four health facilities consisting of two hospitals and two reference health centres in Mali.Participants The study participants comprised 795 randomly selected neonates and their indexed mother.Outcome measures The primary outcome of the study was the prevalence of sepsis in the considered health facilities. The other variables of interest were risk factors for sepsis.Results The prevalence of neonatal sepsis among the study population was 21.00%. More than 74% of sepsis cases were early onset (

BackgroundPancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal forms of cancer, and despite low incidence rates, it remains the sixth leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide. Immunotherapy, which aims to enhance the immune system’s ability to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, has emerged as a promising approach in the battle against PDAC. PARP7, a mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase, is a negative regulator of the type I interferon (IFN-I) pathway and has been reported to reduce anti-tumour immunity.MethodsWe used murine pancreatic cancer cells, CR705, CRISPR/Cas9, in vivo tumour models and spectral flow cytometry to determine the role of PARP7 in pancreatic tumour growth.ResultsLoss of Parp7 elevated the levels of interferon stimulated gene factor 3 (ISGF3) and its downstream target genes, even in the absence of STING. Cancer cells knocked out for Parp7 (CR705Parp7KO) produced smaller tumours than control cells (CR705Cas9) when injected into immunocompetent mice. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that CR705Parp7KO tumours had increased expression of genes involved in immunoregulatory interactions and interferon signalling pathways. Characterization of tumour infiltrating leukocyte (TIL) populations showed that CR705Parp7KO tumours had higher proportions of natural killer cells, CD8+ T cells and a lower proportion of anti-inflammatory macrophages (M2). The overall TIL profile of CR705Parp7KO tumours was suggestive of a less suppressive microenvironment.ConclusionsOur data show that loss of Parp7 reduces PDAC tumour growth by increasing the infiltration of immune cells and enhancing anti-tumour immunity. These findings provide support to pursue PARP7 as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment.