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Saliva is crucial in maintaining oral health; its composition reflects the body's physiological and diseased state. Among salivary components, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) stand out for their broad antimicrobial activities and role in modulating the oral microbiota and innate immune response. Local and systemic diseases can affect the levels of AMPs in saliva, making them attractive biomarkers. However, the large variability in their concentrations hampers their use in diagnostics. Knowledge of the various factors influencing the profile of salivary AMPs is essential for their use as biomarkers. Here, we examine how lifestyle factors such as physical activity, dietary supplementation, tobacco smoking, and psychological stress impact salivary AMP levels. By understanding these sources of variability, we can take a step forward in using AMPs for diagnostics and prognostics and develop new tailored and preventative approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In constructed wetlands (CWs), aquatic plant diversity can enhance system nitrogen (N) removal. However, the impact of aquatic plant diversity with different life forms and benthic animals on the N (NO3−-N, NH4+-N, TIN) removal and its stability has been neglected. This study established 42 simulated CWs, selecting three aquatic plant species with different life forms to establish plant species diversity, with benthic animals (Cipangopaludinas chinensis) added or not added at each diversity level. The results indicated that (1) the presence of the aquatic plant Pistia stratiotes increased the effluent nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N) concentration. (2) In systems with or without C. chinensis, the plant species richness increased the temporal stability of the effluent NO3−-N concentration; the presence of the aquatic plant Vallisneria natans increased the temporal stability of the effluent total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) concentration in systems without C. chinensis and the temporal stability of the effluent NO3−-N concentration in systems with C. chinensis. (3) Adding C. chinensis significantly reduced the temporal stability of the effluent TIN concentration in the monoculture of V. natans. The rational establishment of aquatic plant diversity with benthic animals can improve the effluent's water quality while ensuring the water quality's temporal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low back pain affects 619 million people worldwide and is commonly provoked by sitting. Current assessment methods constrain task variability, removing real-world, task-switching behaviors. This study utilized accelerometers to provide an original validated method of in vivo real-world assessment of lumbar sitting behavior throughout a full day. A three-stage study design was used, which involved (1) blinded verification of our sitting detection algorithm, (2) full-day data collection from participants with low back discomfort, quantifying lumbar angles, and end-user acceptability explored, (3) case study application to two clinical low back pain (LBP) patients, incorporating measurement of provocative sitting. Focus group discussions demonstrated that data collection methods were acceptable. Sitting 'windows' were created and analyzed using novel histograms, amplitude probability distribution functions, and variability, demonstrating that sitting behavior was unique and varied across individuals. One LBP patient demonstrated two frequent lumbar postures (<15% flexion and ~75% flexion), with pain provocation at 62% lumbar flexion. The second patient demonstrated a single dominant posture (~90% flexion), with pain provoked at 86% lumbar flexion. Our in vivo approach offers an acceptable method to gain new insights into provocative sitting behavior in individuals with LBP, allowing individualized unconstrained data for full-day postures and pain provocation behaviors to be quantified, which are otherwise unattainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hydroxyurea (HU), also known as hydroxycarbamide, is an oral ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor. In 1999, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved HU for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD). Since then, it has become the cornerstone in the management of SCD patients, helping to reduce vaso-occlusive crises, acute chest syndrome, the need for blood transfusions, hospitalizations and mortality. There is considerable variability among individuals in HU pharmacokinetic (Pk) parameters that can influence treatment efficacy and toxicity. The objective of this work is part of a clinical study aimed at investigating HU Pk and determining the optimal sampling time to estimate the Area Under the Curve (AUC) in SCD patients. Methods: HU plasma concentration in 80 patients at various time points (2, 4, 6, 24 h) following a 48-h drug washout was quantified using High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) coupled with an ultraviolet (UV) detection method previously described in the literature and adapted to new conditions with partial modifications. Results: The mean HU administered dose was 19.5 ± 5.1 mg/kg (range: 7.7–37.5 mg/kg). The median AUC quantified in plasma patients was 101.3 mg/L/h (Interquartile Range (IQR): 72.5–355.9) and it was not influenced by the weight-based dose. However, there was a strong positive correlation between AUC and Body Mass Index (BMI) as well as dose per Body Surface Area (BSA). Along with a three-point approach for AUC determination present in the literature, we show results obtained from a four-point sampling strategy, which is more useful and effective for better optimizing dose escalation to the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Moreover, we observed that most patients achieved the maximum HU plasma concentration two hours after drug administration, regardless of age differences. Conclusions: HU treatment, which represents a milestone in the treatment of SCD due to its ability to reduce disease complications and improve patients' quality of life, requires careful monitoring to optimize the individual dose for saving potential side effects and/or adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antiparasitic drug ivermectin is approved for persons > 15 kg in the US and EU. A pharmacometric (PMX) population model with clinical PK data was developed (i) to characterize the effect of the patient-friendly ivermectin formulation CHILD-IVITAB on the absorption process and (ii) to evaluate dosing for studies in children < 15 kg. Simulations were performed to identify dosing with CHILD-IVITAB associated with similar exposure coverage in children ≥ 15 kg and < 15 kg as observed in adults receiving the reference formulation STROMECTOL®. A total of 448 ivermectin concentrations were available from 16 healthy adults. The absorption rate constant was 2.41 h−1 (CV 19%) for CHILD-IVITAB vs. 1.56 h−1 (CV 43%) for STROMECTOL®. Simulations indicated that 250 µg/kg of CHILD-IVITAB is associated with exposure coverage in children < 15 kg consistent with that observed in children ≥ 15 kg and adults receiving 200 µg/kg of STROMECTOL®. Performed analysis confirmed that CHILD-IVITAB is associated with faster and more controlled absorption than STROMECTOL®. Simulations indicate that 250 µg/kg of CHILD-IVITAB achieves equivalent ivermectin exposure coverage in children < 15 kg as seen in children ≥ 15 kg and adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the availability of an effective vaccine for several decades, the measles virus continues to spread worldwide. From 2018 to 2019, several countries experienced large measles outbreaks with genotype B3, including Tunisia. We analyzed 66 samples collected from serologically confirmed measles cases during this outbreak. Fifty-five percent were aged less than 12 months and had not received a measles vaccine. Phylogenetic analysis using the 450 nucleoprotein (N450) window revealed that all strains belonged to genotype B3, with five different variants identified. The N450 sequence of the predominant one, which circulated all through the epidemic period, was identical to the named strain MVs/Kabul.AFG/20.14/3. For better molecular discrimination, the amplification and sequencing of 1018 nucleotides in the non-coding region between the M and F genes (MF-NCRs) revealed higher variability with at least nine clusters. A phylogeographic study using Bayesian methods suggested the Governorate of Kasserine (on the borders of Algeria) as the introduction point with a TMRCA (Time to Most Recent Common Ancestor) for the 2019 sequences estimated around October 2018. These findings emphasize the crucial role of advanced molecular investigations in tracing measles transmission pathways which, together with good vaccine coverage, will help the final success of the global measles elimination program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While field research in indoor air quality (IAQ) increasingly uses large numbers of low-cost sensors, detailed validation of each sensor is becoming infeasible, ignored, or undeclared. Questions remain about whether these sensors meet manufacturer or third-party specifications and whether their utility improves with some validation, even under imperfect conditions. This study details the outcomes of a co-location experiment with 87 low-cost IAQ monitors, conducted with the objective of verifying their performance in measuring total volatile organic compounds (tVOCs), particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and relative humidity. The monitors were installed next to professional-grade reference IAQ instruments in an office with controlled ventilation. A mixed validation methodology was used, involving outlier detection, uncertainty quantification, and performance metric calculations. Results showed that CO2, temperature, and humidity sensors reliably met manufacturer specifications, while tVOC sensors had significant accuracy issues, deviating by up to 79% from reference measurements—substantially more than the stated uncertainty of ±20%. PM2.5 sensors were more consistent but had an error margin of ±27%, compared to the stated ±15%. A total of 5 of the 87 sensors (5.7%) were outliers for at least one IAQ indicator. Despite the need for further long-term validation, this study highlights the importance of performing an experimental evaluation of low-cost IAQ monitors before field deployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferumoxytol injection, also known as Feraheme®, is an approved IV injectable iron supplement and an experimental MRI contrast agent. Initially, it was approved as an IV bolus agent, but its use was later limited to a slow infusion drip due to high levels of infusion reactions. We collected various batches of ferumoxytol with expiration dates ranging from 2010 to 2025 and compared their size and zeta potential. Since nanoparticle surface properties can affect infusion reactions, we conducted a dot blot immunoassay to measure complement C3 opsonization with ferumoxytol preparations. We observed differences in nanoparticle size and zeta potential between batches and a 2.5-fold variation in complement activation. Interestingly, older batches from 2010 showed more uniform size distribution and lower complement activation than some of the newer batches. This finding may be valuable to the nanomedicine community and regulatory authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The manuscript presents the applicability of the Gumbel distribution in the frequency analysis of extreme events in hydrology. The advantages and disadvantages of using the distribution are highlighted, as well as recommendations regarding its proper use. A literature review was also carried out regarding the methods for estimating the parameters of the Gumbel distribution in hydrology. Thus, for the verification of the methods, case studies are presented regarding the determination of the maximum annual flows and precipitations using nine methods for estimating the distribution parameters. The influence of the variability of the observed data lengths on the estimation of the statistical indicators, the estimation of the parameters, and the quantiles corresponding to the field of small exceedance probabilities (p < 1%) is also highlighted. In each case, the results are analyzed compared to those obtained with the Generalized Extreme Value distribution, the four-parameter Burr distribution, and the five-parameter Wakeby distribution estimated using the L-moments method. The results of the case studies highlight and reaffirm the statistical, mathematical, and hydrological recommendations regarding the avoidance of applying the Gumbel distribution in flood frequency analysis and its use with reservations in the case of maximum precipitation analysis, especially when the statistical indicators of the analyzed data are not close to the characteristic ones and unique to the distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Geopyörä breakage test uses two counter-rotating wheels to nip and crush rock specimens with a tightly controlled gap between rollers. This paper presents the detailed measures conducted to evaluate the accuracy and precision of energy measurements across various ore types using the Geopyörä. Force measurement was assessed just for its precision. The outputs were compared directly to the drop weight test (DWT) measures of fragmentation at the same energy and fitted A and b parameters. Test reproducibility was evaluated using a Round-Robin methodology, testing several samples in multiple laboratories. The results confirmed that the new test has sufficient accuracy to match DWT results and excellent precision to assure reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to measure the physical attributes of seeds of selected lilac species and to describe the correlations between these properties and seed mass for seed processing and treatment. Basic physical parameters were measured in the seeds of five lilac species and the results were used to calculate aspect ratios describing seed shape and size. The average values of the measured properties ranged from 3.57 to 5.98 m s−1 for terminal velocity, from 6.20 to 9.61 mm for seed length, from 2.19 to 3.94 mm for seed width, from 0.85 to 1.21 mm for seed thickness, from 5.9 to 19.2 mg for seed mass, and from 32° to 44° for the angle of external friction. Seed mass was bound by the strongest correlations with terminal velocity (Amur lilac, Hungarian lilac, and Pekin lilac), thickness (broadleaf lilac), and width (Japanese tree lilac). Seed thickness followed by terminal velocity were the primary distinguishing features of lilac seeds. Therefore, lilac seeds should be sorted with the use of sieve separators with longitudinal openings or pneumatic separators. These devices effectively sort lilac seeds into fractions with uniform seed mass, which can facilitate the propagation of lilacs in nurseries and the production of high-quality seedlings, thus promoting the sustainable use of natural resources and production materials. In medium-sized and large seed fractions, the coefficient of variation of seed mass can be decreased by up to 50% relative to unsorted seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioequivalence studies are pivotal in generic drug development wherein therapeutic equivalence is provided with an innovator product. However, bioequivalence studies represent significant complexities due to the interplay of multiple factors related to drug, formulation, physiology, and pharmacokinetics. Approaches such as physiologically based biopharmaceutics modeling (PBBM) can enable virtual bioequivalence (VBE) assessment through appropriately developed and validated models. Such models are now being extensively used for bioequivalence risk assessment, internal decision-making, and the evaluation of drug and formulation factors related to bioequivalence. Depiction of the above-mentioned factors through the incorporation of variability and development of a virtual population for bioequivalence assessment is of paramount importance in utilizing such models. In this manuscript, we have portrayed our current understanding of VBE. A detailed explanation was provided with respect to study designs, in vivo variability, and the impact of physiological, drug, and formulation factors on the development of the population for VBE. Furthermore, strategies are suggested to incorporate variability in GastroPlus with an emphasis on intra-subject and inter-occasion variability. Two industrial case studies pertaining to immediate and modified release formulation were portrayed wherein VBE was utilized for decision-making and regulatory justification. Finally, regulatory understanding in the area of VBE, along with future perspectives, was detailed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial communities are known to play an important role in maintaining ecological balance and can be used as an indicator for assessing environmental pollution. Numerous studies have revealed that air pollution can alter the structure of microbial communities, which may increase health risks. Nevertheless, the relationships between microbial communities and particulate matter (PM) caused by air pollution in terms of health risk assessment are not well understood. This study aimed to validate the influences of PM chemical compositions on microbial communities and assess the associated health risks. Our results, based on similarity analysis, revealed that the stability structure of the microbial communities had a similarity greater than 73%. In addition, the altered richness and diversity of microbial communities were significantly associated with PM chemical compositions. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exerted a positive influence on microbial communities in different environmental variables. Additionally, a stronger linear correlation was observed between hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and the richness of microbial communities. All estimated health risks from PM chemical compositions, calculated under different environmental variables, significantly exceeded the acceptable level by a factor of more than 49. Cr and 1,2-Dibromoethane displayed dual adverse effects of non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks. Overall, the study provides insights into the fundamental mechanisms of the variability in microbial communities driven by PM, which may support the crucial role of PM chemical compositions in the risk of microorganisms in the atmospheric environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The metabolic profile implies simultaneous determination of carbohydrate, fat, protein, and mineral metabolism parameters as well as endocrinological parameters in the blood of cows. Blood is exposed to a variety of preanalytical factors during sampling, transport to the laboratory, and laboratory preparation for analysis, which may cause hemolysis of the sample. As hemolysis affects the values of the metabolic profile, the analyzed blood parameters may falsely increase or decrease, and the metabolic status of the cows may be misinterpreted. Preventing hemolysis is important because severe hemolysis requires discarding the sample and resampling, which is very resource-intensive. In this paper, three levels of hemolysis were determined for each blood parameter tested: (a) a hemolysis level that does not affect the values of the parameters and allows the results to be issued without restriction; (b) a hemolysis level that affects the values of the parameters but remains within the acceptable biological variability and permits the results to be issued along with a note in the form of a correction formula; and (c) a hemolysis level at which the obtained values of the parameters or the entire sample must be discarded. The results are presented graphically using interferograms, which can be easily implemented in every laboratory after validation. Hemolysis is a common cause of errors in laboratory tests as it affects blood parameters and leads to a positive or negative bias. This study aims to examine the relationship between the level of hemolysis (expressed as cell-free hemoglobin concentration, g/L) and the variability of metabolic and endocrine parameters and to determine the threshold level of hemolysis that causes an analytically and clinically significant bias for the twenty most frequently examined blood parameters in cows. Paired blood samples of 10 mL each were obtained from 30 cows. One was subjected to mechanical trauma and plasma was extracted directly from the other. Hemolyzed and non-hemolyzed samples from the same animal were mixed to obtain final samples with cell-free hemoglobin concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 g/L. Metabolic and endocrine parameters were measured in the samples and their deviation and the linear equation between the level of hemolysis and the deviation were determined. The following threshold values of hemolysis were determined, which correspond to the acceptable analytical (lower value) and clinical (upper value) levels of parameter variability: BHB 0.96 and 4.81; NEFA 0.39 and 3.31; GLU 0.38 and 3.90; ALB 1.12 and 6.11; TPROT 1.40 and 6.80; UREA 6.62 and 20.1; TBIL 0.75 and 5.65; AST 0.11 and 2.18; GGT 1.71 and 8.90, LDH 0.01 and 0.11, ALP 0.97 and 2.95; TGC 1.56 and 15.5; CHOL 1.29 and 8.56; Ca 5.68 and 25.7; P 0.57 and 8.43; Mg 1.10 and 8.47; INS 1.15 and 3.89; T3 8.19 and 15.6; T4 8.97 and 18.5; and CORT 2.78 and 11.22 g/L cell-free hemoglobin. Three decision levels are available for each metabolic and endocrine parameter: if hemolysis is below the lower (analytical) threshold value, results can be reported without restriction; if hemolysis is between the lower and upper thresholds, the results can be issued with guidance in the form of corrective linear equations; and if hemolysis is above the upper (clinical) threshold, the results and sample must be discarded. This method contributes to an optimal approach to hemolysis interference with metabolic profile parameters in blood samples from cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study illustrates a baseline biodiversity snapshot of macrofauna inhabiting the seafloor in German marine protected areas (MPAs) if the North and Baltic Seas in 2020–2022, before the full closure for bottom-contact fishing. While the closure is now in place in some MPAs, it is still planned for the near future in others. The analyses included different habitats in nine Natura 2000 MPAs. We provide essential data and comprehensive macrofauna species lists per area, relevant for the joint future conservation efforts and effective management. We explore environmental drivers of community structure and touch upon suggested effects of bottom-contact fishing in both geographic regions. Despite the expectation of more limited connectivity between MPAs in the Baltic Sea compared to the North Sea, the degree of community differentiation between MPAs was higher in the North Sea. Alpha diversity generally increased towards the open North Sea, and gamma diversity seemed comparable for these two regions. The Baltic Sea dataset unexpectedly contained a higher number of taxa, including Red List species. Achieving homogeneity of monitoring data and joint assessment even within one national program and biological compartment between different geographic regions, research institutions and fields remain challenging. This joint work appeals for flexible data sharing and prioritizing informal intersessional communication. Such a baseline is important for assessing future faunal changes. The response of benthic habitats and organisms to bottom-contact fishing intensity is investigated in marine protected areas (MPAs) of the German EEZ in the North and Baltic Seas. We examined the current state of macrofauna biodiversity in 2020–2022. Comparative analysis for macrofauna (in- and epifauna) inhabiting nine Natura 2000 MPAs constitutes a baseline to assess the effects of bottom-contact fishing exclusion in the future. Aspects of spatial and temporal variability are briefly summarized and discussed. We provide a species list for each region, including 481 taxa, of which 79 were found in both regions, 183 only in the North Sea, and 219 only in the Baltic Sea. The Baltic Sea dataset surprisingly included higher numbers of taxa and revealed more Red List species. The share of major taxonomic groups (polychaetes, bivalves and amphipods) in species richness showed peculiar commonalities between the two regions. In the North Sea, multivariate analysis of community structure revealed significantly higher within-similarity and stronger separation between the considered MPAs compared to the Baltic MPAs. Salinity, temperature and sediment fractions of sand were responsible for over 60% of the variation in the North Sea macrofauna occurrence data. Salinity, mud fraction and bottom-contact fishing were the most important drivers in the Baltic Sea and, together with other considered environmental drivers, were responsible for 53% of the variation. This study identifies aspects of macrofauna occurrence that may be used to assess (causes of) future changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variability and regularity of stride time may help identify individuals at a greater risk of injury during military load carriage. Wearable sensors could provide a cost-effective, portable solution for recording these measures, but establishing their validity is necessary. This study aimed to determine the agreement of several measures of stride time variability across five wearable sensors (Opal APDM, Vicon Blue Trident, Axivity, Plantiga, Xsens DOT) and force plates during military load carriage. Nineteen Australian Army trainee soldiers (age: 24.8 ± 5.3 years, height: 1.77 ± 0.09 m, body mass: 79.5 ± 15.2 kg, service: 1.7 ± 1.7 years) completed three 12-min walking trials on an instrumented treadmill at 5.5 km/h, carrying 23 kg of an external load. Simultaneously, 512 stride time intervals were identified from treadmill-embedded force plates and each sensor where linear (standard deviation and coefficient of variation) and non-linear (detrended fluctuation analysis and sample entropy) measures were obtained. Sensor and force plate agreement was evaluated using Pearson's r and intraclass correlation coefficients. All sensors had at least moderate agreement (ICC > 0.5) and a strong positive correlation (r > 0.5). These results suggest wearable devices could be employed to quantify linear and non-linear measures of stride time variability during military load carriage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: If questionnaires contributing to the diagnosis of dry eye disease are to be recommended as alternatives to existing questionnaires, they must be comparable, with similar repeatability and treatment sensitivity. Comparability was thus examined for three common dry eye questionnaires along with identifying the individual questions that most strongly predicted overall scores. Methods: Anonymised data (n = 329) collected via the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), 5-item Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ-5) and Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye (SANDE) questionnaires (including responses to individual questions) from consenting patients were drawn from real-world dry eye clinics/registries in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand; at follow-up, normalised changes were evaluated in 54 of these patients. Treatment data were also analysed from a 6-month, randomised controlled trial assessing artificial tear supplement treatments with 43 responders and 13 non-responders to treatment identified. The questions extracted from the OSDI which form the abbreviated 6-item OSDI were also analysed. Results: The agreement between the questionnaires ranged from r = 0.577 to 0.754 (all p < 0.001). For the OSDI, three questions accounted for 89.1% of the variability in the total score. The correlation between the OSDI and OSDI-6 was r = 0.939, p < 0.001. For the DEQ-5, two questions accounted for 88.5% of the variance in the total score. Normalised treatment changes were also only moderately correlated between the questionnaires (r = 0.441 to 0.595, p < 0.01). For non-responders, variability was 7.4% with both OSDI and OSDI-6, 9.7% with DEQ-5, 12.1% with SANDE-frequency and 11.9% with SANDE-severity scale. For responders, improvement with drops was detected with a 19.1% change in OSDI, 20.2% in OSDI-6, 20.9% in DEQ-5, and 27.5%/23.6% in SANDE-frequency/severity scales. Conclusions: Existing commonly used dry eye questionnaire scores do not show high levels of correlation. The OSDI was the least variable of the questionnaires and while displaying a slightly lower treatment effect than either the DEQ or SANDE, it was more sensitive to detection of a treatment effect. The quicker-to-complete OSDI-6 exhibited essentially the same outcome as the OSDI, with similar variability and treatment sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a staple crop widely cultivated by small farmers in tropical countries. However, despite the low level of technology required for its management, it can be affected by several diseases, with anthracnose as the main threat. There is little information about the main species of Colletotrichum that infect cassava in Brazil. Thus, the objective of this work was to study the diversity, prevalence and virulence of Colletotrichum species that cause anthracnose in cassava leaves in northern Brazil. Twenty municipalities of the Pará and Tocantins states were selected, and leaves with symptoms were collected in those locations. Pure cultures were isolated in the laboratory. Species were identified using phylogenetic analyses of multiple loci, and their pathogenicity, aggressivity and virulence levels were assessed. Our results showed the greatest diversity of Colletotrichum associated with anthracnose in cassava plants of the "Formosa" cultivar in the Tocantins and Pará states. We determined the presence of Colletotrichum chrysophilum, C. truncatum, C. siamense, C. fructicola, C. plurivorum, C. musicola and C. karsti, with C. chrysophilum as the most aggressive and virulent. Our findings provide accurate identifications of species of Colletotrichum causing anthracnose in cassava crops, which are of great relevance for cassava breeding programs (e.g., the search for genotypes with polygenic resistance since the pathogen is so diverse) and for developing anthracnose management strategies that can work efficiently against species complexes of Colletotrichum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic variability in rice breeding programs plays a very crucial role. It provides an outstanding pool of superior alleles governing better agronomic and quality characters through association mapping. For a greater understanding of population structure, the genetic relationship among different rice lines is indispensable prior to the setting of a correlation among dynamic alleles and traits. In the present investigation, the genetic diversity and population structure of 116 rice accessions were studied to understand genetic relatedness and diversity among them using 64 polymorphic SSR markers. A genotyping assessment based on SSR markers revealed a total of 225 alleles, with an average PIC value of 0.755. The germplasm lines were classified into three distinct subgroups through population structure analysis, utilizing both model- and distance-based approaches. AMOVA analysis showed that 11% of the total variation could be attributed to differences between groups, while the remaining 89% was likely due to differences within groups. This study suggested that population structure and genetic relatedness should be considered to establish marker–trait associations for association mapping when working with the core collection of germplasm lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modeling in an emerging technology like RRAM devices is one of the pivotal concerns for its development. In the current bibliography, most of the models face difficulties in implementing or simulating unconventional scenarios, particularly when dealing with complex input signals. In addition, circuit simulators like Spice require long running times for high-resolution results because of their internal mathematical implementation. In this work, a fast, simple, robust, and versatile model for RRAM devices built in MATLAB is presented. The proposed model is a recursive and discretized version of the dynamic memdiode model (DMM) for bipolar-type resistive switching devices originally implemented in LTspice. The DMM model basically consists of two coupled equations: one for the current (non-linear current generator) and a second one for the memory state of the device (time-dependent differential equation). This work presents an easy-to-use tool for researchers to reproduce the experimental behavior of their devices and predict the outcome from non-trivial experiments. Three study cases are reported, aimed at capturing different phenomenologies: a frequency effect study, a cycle-to-cycle variability fit, and a stochastic resonance impact analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the spatiotemporal variability and determinants of rainfall patterns during the March to May (MAM) season in Rwanda, incorporating an analysis of teleconnections with oceanic–atmospheric indices over the period 1983–2021. Utilizing the Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) dataset, the study employs a set of statistical tools including standardized anomalies, empirical orthogonal functions (EOF), Pearson correlation, the Mann–Kendall (MK) trend test, and Sen's slope estimator to dissect the intricacies of rainfall variability, trends, and their association with large-scale climatic drivers. The findings reveal a distinct southwest to northwest rainfall gradient across Rwanda, with the MK test signaling a decline in annual precipitation, particularly in the southwest. The analysis for the MAM season reveals a general downtrend in rainfall, attributed in part to teleconnections with the Indian Ocean Sea surface temperatures (SSTs). Notably, the leading EOF mode for MAM rainfall demonstrates a unimodal pattern, explaining a significant 51.19% of total variance, and underscoring the pivotal role of atmospheric dynamics and moisture conveyance in shaping seasonal rainfall. The spatial correlation analysis suggests a modest linkage between MAM rainfall and the Indian Ocean Dipole, indicating that negative (positive) phases are likely to result in anomalously wet (dry) conditions in Rwanda. This comprehensive assessment highlights the intricate interplay between local rainfall patterns and global climatic phenomena, offering valuable insights into the meteorological underpinnings of rainfall variability during Rwanda's critical MAM season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control charts are tools of paramount importance in statistical process control. They are broadly applied in monitoring processes and improving quality, as they allow the detection of special causes of variation with a significant level of accuracy. Furthermore, there are several strategies able to be employed in different contexts, all of which offer their own advantages. Therefore, this study focuses on monitoring the variability in univariate processes through variance using the Binomial version of the ATTRIVAR Same Sample S2 (B-ATTRIVAR SS S2) control chart, given that it allows coupling attribute and variable inspections (ATTRIVAR means attribute + variable), i.e., taking advantage of the cost-effectiveness of the former and the wealth of information and greater performance of the latter. Its Binomial version was used for such a purpose, since inspections are made using two attributes, and the Same Sample was used due to being submitted to both the attribute and variable stages of inspection. A computational application was developed in the R language using the Shiny package so as to create an interface to facilitate its application and use in the quality control of the production processes. Its application enables users to input process parameters and generate the B-ATTRIVAR SS control chart for monitoring the process variability with variance. By comparing the data obtained from its application with a simpler code, its performance was validated, given that its results exhibited striking similarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the variability of major glucosinolates in the leaf lamina of 134 Chinese cabbage accessions was investigated using Acquity ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS). A total of twenty glucosinolates were profiled, of which glucobrassicanapin and gluconapin were identified as the predominant glucosinolates within the germplasm. These two glucosinolates had mean concentration levels above 1000.00 μmol/kg DW. Based on the principal component analysis, accessions IT186728, IT120044, IT221789, IT100417, IT278620, IT221754, and IT344740 were separated from the rest in the score plot. These accessions exhibited a higher content of total glucosinolates. Based on the VIP values, 13 compounds were identified as the most influential and responsible for variation in the germplasm. Sinigrin (r = 0.73), gluconapin (r = 0.78), glucobrassicanapin (r = 0.70), epiprogoitrin (r = 0.73), progoitrin (r = 0.74), and gluconasturtiin (r = 0.67) all exhibited a strong positive correlation with total glucosinolate at p < 0.001. This indicates that each of these compounds had a significant influence on the overall glucosinolate content of the various accessions. This study contributes valuable insights into the metabolic diversity of glucosinolates in Chinese cabbage, providing potential for breeding varieties tailored to consumer preferences and nutritional demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present-day climate (the recent 100–150 years) obviously constitutes the structure of a global intra-system rhythmic process with an individual rhythm of about 60 years. In turn, each of the rhythms is presented by the two climate phases of about 25–35 years characterized by qualitative differences: one phase is relatively continental, while the other is humid. Globality and quasi-synchronism of environmental changes are accompanied by planetary structures: the Global Atmospheric Oscillation (GAO) in the atmosphere and the Multidecadal Oscillation of the Heat content in the Ocean (MOHO) discovered relatively recently. Unexpected and rapid qualitative phase changes in the climate, which first focused attention in the mid-1970s of the last century, were titled "climate shifts". The revealed features of the present-day climate are of exceptional scientific and practical interest and deserve the development of methods for predicting the timing of the forthcoming climate shift. Arising unexpectedly and accompanied by rapid significant changes, these shifts identified the problem of understanding the nature and establishing the processes and mechanisms causing them. First of all, of interest are phase changes in the thermodynamic state of the climate system components: the ocean, atmosphere, and continents. As a result of the World Ocean (WO) thermohydrodynamics numerical modelling, it is shown that MOHO is localized in the layer of the main thermocline, where the most important elements of the WO circulation are located. The performed study based on observational data allows us to conclude that, during the phase of the WO thermal discharge (1975–1999), the two key systems of currents, the Kuroshio and the Gulf Stream, were under similar thermodynamic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-firing wood pellets with coal is an attractive alternative energy generation method with economic, social, and environmental benefits for the US energy generation sector. One way to sustainably use wood pellets for co-firing is to create consumer-supported green pricing programs (GPPs). Our study surveyed residents of five states (Alabama, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia) to investigate preferences for the attributes of a hypothetical GPP. The study applied the Best Worst Choice method, which employs the Best Worst Scaling (BWS) and binary choice (BC) task. The BWS analysis showed that residents of all five states most value the flexibility of contracts, the location of energy generation, and the reduction of carbon emissions as attributes of GPPs. The BC analysis, however, showed that residents are willing to pay a premium for length of contract, followed by reduction of carbon emissions and variability of payments. This study shows that the adoption of optimal GPP attributes can create real customer value. The success of GPPs will depend on increasing enrollment and public support; hence, the next step will be to increase awareness levels and green consciousness through sensitization in the form of public education exercises and media campaigns. Such measures will serve to inform and educate residents on the benefits of GPPs and lessen the gap between intrinsic value and willingness to pay for select attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The classical kinematic variables in swimming are based on the calculation of mean values. Stroke steadiness determines the relationship between the duration of all consecutive strokes throughout a test. The aims of the current investigation were to examine differences in stroke-to-stroke steadiness according to swimmers' performance level on both body sides (breathing and non-breathing) and to analyse the interrelationship with kinematics during a 100 m front-crawl test. Thirty-two young, experienced swimmers voluntarily participated in the present study and were divided into two groups, national level (n = 15) and local level (n = 17), according to their competitive status within the national age-rankings. All participants performed a 100 m maximal test in a 50 m pool where they were laterally recorded. Kinematic variables such as mean velocity, stroke rate, stroke length, and stroke index, as well as long-term steadiness and short-term steadiness, were calculated. The two 50 m sections were analysed independently. Significant differences were observed between the two groups in the classical kinematic variables and in stroke steadiness (p < 0.05). In addition, stroke steadiness showed moderately high correlations with velocity (r = [−0.61–(−0.749)]) and stroke index (r = [−0.356–(−0.582)]). Maintaining a more stable inter-stroke period appears to be a determinant of performance in young, high-level national swimmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the current maturity of printed technologies, Organic Thin-Film Transistors (OTFT) still show high initial variability, which can be beneficial for its exploitation in security applications. In this work, the process-related variability and aging of commercial OTFTs have been characterized to evaluate the feasibility of OTFTs-based Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) implementation. For our devices, ID-based PUFs show good uniformity and uniqueness. However, PUFs' reliability could be compromised because of the observed transient and aging effects in the OTFTs, which could hinder the reproducibility of the generated fingerprints. A systematic study of the aging of OTFTs has been performed to evaluate the PUFs' reliability. Our results suggest that the observed transient and aging effects could be mitigated so that the OTFTs-based PUFs' reliability could be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccinium uliginosum (VU) is one of the most precious wild berry plants distributed in the Changbai Mountain region in northeast China. Eight key morphological traits of VU were analyzed to examine the variation among and within five natural populations at different altitudes, as well as their response to environmental factors. The study results showed an increasing trend of variation among populations with ascending altitudes, but the range variation within populations exhibited a decreasing trend. The diversity level among populations was found to be higher than that within populations, and the five populations of VU were classified into four groups. Except for leaf width and twig length, all other morphological traits demonstrated significant or extremely significant correlations. Generally, with increasing altitude, leaf length decreased, while plant height, clear bole height, and basal diameter decreased significantly, and similar trends were observed with moisture factors, while a significant positive correlation was found with temperature factors. Among them, the morphological traits of clear bole height and basal diameter exhibited the strongest correlation with environmental factor variations. Overall, these findings indicate extensive variation in the morphological traits of VU within and among populations at different altitudes, with clear responses to changes in environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-adaptive systems can autonomously adjust their behavior in response to environmental changes. Nowadays, not only can these systems be engineered individually, but they can also be conceived as members of a family based on the approach of dynamic software product lines. Through systematic mapping, we build on the identified gaps in the variability management of self-adaptive systems; we propose a framework that improves the adaptive capability of self-adaptive systems through feature model generation, variation point generation, the selection of a variation point, and runtime variability management using deep learning and the monitor–analysis–plan–execute–knowledge (MAPE-K) control loop. We compute the permutation of domain features and obtain all the possible variation points that a feature model can possess. After identifying variation points, we obtain an adaptation rule for each variation point of the corresponding product line through a two-stage training of an artificial neural network. To evaluate our proposal, we developed a test case in the context of an air quality-based activity recommender system, in which we generated 11 features and 32 possible variations. The results obtained with the proof of concept show that it is possible to manage identifying new variation points at runtime using deep learning. Future research will employ generating and building variation points using artificial intelligence techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrodeposited amorphous hydrated iridium oxide (IrOx) is a promising material for pH sensing due to its high sensitivity and the ease of fabrication. However, durability and variability continue to restrict the sensor's effectiveness. Variation in probe films can be seen in both performance and fabrication, but it has been found that performance variation can be controlled with potentiostatic conditioning (PC). To make proper use of this technique, the morphological and chemical changes affecting the conditioning process must be understood. Here, a thorough study of this material, after undergoing PC in a pH-sensing-relevant potential regime, was conducted by voltammetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Fitting of XPS data was performed, guided by raw trends in survey scans, core orbitals, and valence spectra, both XPS and UPS. The findings indicate that the PC process can repeatably control and conform performance and surface bonding to desired calibrations and distributions, respectively; PC was able to reduce sensitivity and offset ranges to as low as ±0.7 mV/pH and ±0.008 V, respectively, and repeat bonding distributions over ~2 months of sample preparation. Both Ir/O atomic ratios (shifting from 4:1 to over 4.5:1) and fitted components assigned hydroxide or oxide states based on the literature (low-voltage spectra being almost entirely with suggested hydroxide components, and high-voltage spectra almost entirely with suggested oxide components) trend across the polarization range. Self-consistent valence, core orbital, and survey quantitative trends point to a likely mechanism of ligand conversion from hydroxide to oxide, suggesting that the conditioning process enforces specific state mixtures that include both theoretical Ir(III) and Ir(IV) species, and raising the conditioning potential alters the surface species from an assumed mixture of Ir species to more oxidized Ir species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term trends and variability of hydroclimate variables are critical for water resource management, as well as adaptation to climate change. Three popular methods were used in this study to explore the trends and variability of hydroclimate variables during last 122 years in the Songhua River (SHR), one of most important river systems in China. Results show the followings: (1) There was an obvious pattern of decadal oscillations, with three positive and three negative precipitation and streamflow anomalies. The lengths of these phases vary from 11 to 36 years. (2) Annual temperature demonstrated a statistically significant increasing trend in the last 122 years, and the trend magnitude was 0.30 °C/10 years in the last 50–60 years, being larger than that of the global surface temperature. It has increased much faster since 1970. (3) Monthly precipitation in the winter season in recent years was almost the same as that in earlier periods, but a significantly increasing monthly streamflow was observed due to snowmelt under a warming climate. (4) A statistically significant correlation between hydroclimate variables and climate indices can be determined. These results could be used to make better water resource management decisions in the SHR, especially under future climate change scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The results obtained in this research are highly novel, as no previous studies have analyzed the external and internal loads of basketball referees based on the game or game quarter during elite games, such as those played in the analyzed tournament. However, this study has limitations that should be considered when interpreting the results. Firstly, although the entire sample of the preparatory tournament was recorded, the number of participants is small. Secondly, the equipment used (anatomical harness, WIMUPRO inertial devices, eight-antenna radiofrequency system, heart-rate monitor...) is costly, which limits the availability of previous studies for data comparison. Monitoring the demands on basketball referees is essential for optimizing their performance and reducing the risk of injuries. This study aimed to analyze the workload experienced by elite basketball referees during official games. Using a quasi-experimental empirical methodology, inertial devices (WIMUPRO) were used for four referees participating in the official tournament of the Spanish first-division basketball league. All the matches in the tournament were analyzed. Descriptive analysis and ANOVA were used to understand the referees' demands. Moreover, a Mixed Linear Model was used to take into account the individuality of each referee in the analysis of the variables. The results indicate that the analyzed external and internal load variables are specific to each basketball referee. The variability in referees' external and internal load demands was identified as low to moderate within performances, between matches, and between quarters. The external and internal load variables did not vary among the three analyzed games. The distance covered during the first quarter of the games was less than in the rest of the quarters, but it was performed at a higher intensity. Neuromuscular load (analyzed as Impacts, Player Load, and Power Metabolic) showed higher values in the first quarter of the games than in the rest. The referees' response to competition is individual and can be influenced by situational variables such as the moment or type of game. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of bacteriophages (phages) as active pharmaceutical ingredients for the treatment of patients is on its way and regulatory agencies are calling for reliable methods to assess phage potency. As the number of phage banks is increasing, so is the number of phages that need to be tested to identify therapeutic candidates. Currently, assessment of phage potency on a semi-solid medium to observe plaque-forming units is unavoidable and proves to be labor intensive when considering dozens of phage candidates. Here, we present a method based on automated pipetting and phage drop-off performed by a liquid-handling robot, allowing high-throughput testing and phage potency determination (based on phage titer and efficiency of plaquing). Ten phages were tested, individually and assembled into one cocktail, against 126 Escherichia coli strains. This automated method was compared to the reference one (manual assay) and validated in terms of reproducibility and concordance (ratio of results according to the Bland and Altman method: 0.99; Lin's concordance correlation coefficient: 0.86). We found that coefficients of variation were lower with automated pipetting (mean CV: 13.3% vs. 24.5%). Beyond speeding up the process of phage screening, this method could be used to standardize phage potency evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen with worldwide prevalence. Understanding the variability in the potential pathogenicity among strains of different subtypes is crucial for risk assessment. In this study, the growth, survival, and virulence characteristics of 16 L. monocytogenes strains isolated from imported meat in China (2018–2020) were investigated. The maximum specific growth rate (μmax) and lag phase (λ) were evaluated using the time-to-detection (TTD) method and the Baranyi model at different temperatures (25, 30, and 37 °C). Survival characteristics were determined by D-values and population reduction after exposure to heat (60, 62.5, and 65 °C) and acid (HCl, pH = 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5). The potential virulence was evaluated via adhesion and invasion to Caco-2 cells, motility, and lethality to Galleria mellonella. The potential pathogenicity was compared among strains of different lineages and subtypes. The results indicate that the lineage I strains exhibited a higher growth rate than the lineage II strains at three growth temperatures, particularly serotype 4b within lineage I. At all temperatures tested, serotypes 1/2a and 1/2b consistently demonstrated higher heat resistance than the other subtypes. No significant differences in the log reduction were observed between the lineage I and lineage II strains at pH 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5. However, the serotype 1/2c strains exhibited significantly low acid resistance at pH 2.5. In terms of virulence, the lineage I strains outperformed the lineage II strains. The invasion rate to Caco-2 cells and lethality to G. mellonella exhibited by the serotype 4b strains were higher than those observed in the other serotypes. This study provides meaningful insights into the growth, survival, and virulence of L. monocytogenes, offering valuable information for understanding the correlation between the pathogenicity and subtypes of L. monocytogenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of renewable rnergy sources (RESs) into the power grid involves operational challenges due to the inherent RES energy-production variability. Imbalances between actual power generation and scheduled production can lead to grid instability and revenue loss for RES operators and aggregators. To address this risk, in this paper, we introduce a mutually beneficial bilateral trading scheme between a RES and a DR aggregator to internally offset real-time energy imbalances before resorting to the flexibility market. We consider that the DR aggregator manages the energy demand of users, characterized by uncertainty in their participation in DR events and thus the actual provision of flexibility, subject to their offered monetary incentives. Given that the RES aggregator faces penalties according to dual pricing for positive or negative imbalances, we develop an optimization framework to achieve the required flexibility while addressing the trade-off between maximizing the profit of the RES and DR aggregators and appropriately incentivizing the users. By using appropriate parameterization of the solution, the achievable revenue for the imbalance offsetting can be shared between the RES and the DR aggregators while keeping users satisfied. Our analysis highlights the interdependencies of the demand–production energy imbalance on user characteristics and the RES and DR aggregator profits. Based on our results, we show that a win–win outcome (for the RES and DR aggregators and the users) is possible for a wide range of cases, and we provide guidelines so that such bilateral agreements between RES and DR aggregators could emerge in practical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The near-surface atmospheric electrostatic field plays a pivotal role in comprehending the global atmospheric circuit model and its influence on climate change. Prior to delving into the intricate interplay between solar activities, geological activities, and atmospheric electric field, a comprehensive examination of the diurnal fair atmospheric electric field's baseline curve within a specific region is essential. Based on the atmospheric electric field network monitoring in Yunnan Province in the year 2022, this study systematically investigated the distribution of the atmospheric electric field under both fair-weather and disturbed weather conditions at a quadrilateral array encompassing Chuxiong Station, Mouding Station, Lufeng Station, and Dali Station. The primary focus was on elucidating the variations in the daily variation curves of fair atmospheric electric fields and conducting a comparative analysis with the Carnegie curves. The possible reasons for the differences among them are also discussed in this study, but more observational evidence is required to confirm the specific causes in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basil (Ocimum species) represents an extraordinary group of aromatic plants that have gained considerable economic importance, primarily due to their essential oils, which have applications in medicine, culinary, and perfumery. The Ocimum genus encompasses more than 60 species of herbs and shrubs originally native to tropical regions. This genus stands out for its remarkable diversity, displaying a wide spectrum of variations in phenotype, chemical composition, and genetic makeup. In addition to genetic factors, the growth, development, and essential oil production of basil are also influenced by environmental conditions, ontogeny, and various other factors. Consequently, the primary objective of this study was to explore the diversity in both the morphological characteristics and essential oil composition among basil genotypes preserved within the gene bank of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences' Department of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants. The investigation involved the assessment of fifteen basil genotypes, representing four distinct species: Ocimum basilicum (including 'Anise', 'Clove', 'Fino Verde', 'Licorice', 'Mammoth', 'Mrs. Burns', 'Thai tömzsi', 'Thai hosszú', and 'Vietnamese basil'), Ocimum sanctum (green holy basils), Ocimum citrodora (Lemon basil), and Ocimum gratissimum (African and Vana holy basil). The genotypes exhibited significant variations in their morphological growth, essential oil content (EOC), and composition. African basil produced more biomass (408.3 g/plant) and showed robust growth. The sweet basil cultivars clove, licorice, Thai tömzsi, and Thai hosszú also exhibited similar robust growth trends. Vietnamese basil, on the other hand, displayed the lowest fresh biomass of 82.0 g per plant. Both holy basils showed EOC levels below 0.5%, while Mrihani basil stood out with the highest EOC of 1.7%. The predominant constituents of the essential oil among these genotypes comprised estragole, thymol, methyl cinnamate, linalool, and eugenol. In conclusion, this study showed that the genotypes of basil stored in the department's gene bank exhibit a wide range of variability, both within and between species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the association between macronutrient intake and postprandial glucose variability in a large sample of youth living with T1D and consuming free-living meals. In the Type 1 Diabetes Exercise Initiative Pediatric (T1DEXIP) Study, youth took photographs before and after their meals on 3 days during a 10 day observation period. We used the remote food photograph method to obtain the macronutrient content of youth's meals. We also collected physical activity, continuous glucose monitoring, and insulin use data. We measured glycemic variability using standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation (CV) of glucose for up to 3 h after meals. Our sample included 208 youth with T1D (mean age: 14 ± 2 years, mean HbA1c: 54 ± 14.2 mmol/mol [7.1 ± 1.3%]; 40% female). We observed greater postprandial glycemic variability (SD and CV) following meals with more carbohydrates. In contrast, we observed less postprandial variability following meals with more fat (SD and CV) and protein (SD only) after adjusting for carbohydrates. Insulin modality, exercise after meals, and exercise intensity did not influence associations between macronutrients and postprandial glycemic variability. To reduce postprandial glycemic variability in youth with T1D, clinicians should encourage diversified macronutrient meal content, with a goal to approximate dietary guidelines for suggested carbohydrate intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: In this pilot study, we quantify the contribution of the late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) image analysis steps to the overall variability of the image analysis process in patients with myocarditis. Within the study protocol, we took an original approach and developed solutions to address this important but underexplored issue. We trust that our research represents a first step toward reducing the overall variability of the LGE-CMR image analysis process, which is important to improve the diagnosis and prognosis of myocarditis patients. Background: Myocardial damage in myocarditis is assessed through late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Variability in quantifying myocarditis extent results from imprecise image segmentation and inconclusive data on quantification method selection. To improve analysis precision, segmentation steps are systematically ranked based on their inherent risks of error. Additionally, data on two distinct quantification methods are presented. Methods: Using newly developed software, four experts analyzed five LGE-CMR left ventricular (LV) short-axis (SAx) images of myocarditis patients in three sessions. Regions of interest (ROIs) (myocardial (ROImyoc), reference (ROIref), and exclusion region (ROIexcl)) were identified and used to calculate LGE extent with 3σ (intensity above three standard deviations (σ) in reference) and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) method (intensity above 50% of maximum signal in reference). The reference LGE extent was calculated and the influence of the ROIs on LGE extent variability was determined. Interobserver and intraobserver variability were evaluated as 1-intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: LGE extent variability was 6.2 ± 0.6% for 3σ and 4.0 ± 0.6% for FWHM. The contributions of ROImyoc, ROIref, and ROIexcl were 1.5 ± 0.2%, 2.7 ± 0.4%, and 2 ± 0.3%, respectively, for 3σ, and 1.1 ± 0.1%, 1.6 ± 0.4%, and 1.3 ± 0.3%, respectively, for FWHM. LGE extent was lower in FWHM. Interobserver variability was 0.56 for 3σ and 0.43 for FWHM. The intraobserver variability was higher for the 3σ method in all four observers. Conclusion: ROIref selection contributed most to LGE extent variability. FWHM yielded lower LGE extent and lower inter- and intraobserver variability. Due to low statistical significance, the findings are only partially confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Alterations in the composition and function of the intestinal microbiota are linked to chronic enteropathy; however, the temporal variability of the intestinal microbiota is under-explored. This study aimed to evaluate the temporal variability of the feline dysbiosis index and the core bacterial taxa in healthy adult cats. A total of 142 fecal samples collected from 17 adult pet cats were included. The qPCR-based feline dysbiosis index was used to assess the fecal microbiota. The results showed temporal stability in the feline dysbiosis index in all healthy adult cats throughout the study. The feline dysbiosis index was consistently within the reference interval over two months in individual cats, and most targeted bacteria remained within their respective reference intervals. While individual variation was observed, the magnitude of impact was minimal compared to disease status and antibiotic use. In conclusion, our findings show the temporal stability of the feline dysbiosis index in healthy adult cats in the absence of perturbations. While shifts in gut microbiota have been studied in diseased states, the temporal variability of the microbiome in cats has not been widely studied. This study investigated the temporal variability of the feline dysbiosis index (DI) and the abundance of core bacterial groups in healthy adult cats. The secondary aim was to evaluate the relationship between the fecal abundance of Clostridium hiranonis and the fecal concentrations of unconjugated bile acids. A total of 142 fecal samples collected from 17 healthy cats were prospectively included: nine cats with weekly collection over 3 weeks (at least four time points), five cats with monthly collection over 2 months (three time points), and three cats with additional collections for up to 10 months. The DI remained stable within the reference intervals over two months for all cats (Friedman test, p > 0.2), and 100% of the DI values (n = 142) collected throughout the study period remained within the RI. While some temporal individual variation was observed for individual taxa, the magnitude was minimal compared to cats with chronic enteropathy and antibiotic exposure. Additionally, the abundance of Clostridium hiranonis was significantly correlated with the percentage of fecal primary bile acids, supporting its role as a bile acid converter in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil moisture (SM), as a crucial input variable of land surface processes, plays a pivotal role in the global hydrological cycle. The aim of this paper is to examine the spatiotemporal variability in SM in the Heihe River Basin using all-weather land surface temperature (LST) and reanalysis land surface data. Initially, we downscaled and generated daily 1 km all-weather SM data (2020) for the Heihe River Basin. Subsequently, we investigated the spatial and temporal patterns of SM using geostatistical and time stability methods. The driving forces of the monthly SM were studied using the optimal parameter-based geographical detector (OPGD) model. The results indicate that the monthly mean values of the downscaled SM data range from 0.115 to 0.146, with a consistently lower SM content and suitable temporal stability throughout the year. Geostatistical analysis revealed that months with a higher SM level exhibit larger random errors and higher variability. Driving analysis based on the factor detector demonstrated that in months with a lower SM level, the q values of each driving factor are relatively small, and the primary driving factors are land cover and elevation. Conversely, in months with a higher SM level, the q values for each driving factor are larger, and the primary driving factors are the normalized difference vegetation index and LST. Furthermore, interaction detector analysis suggested that the spatiotemporal variation in SM is not influenced by a single driving factor but is the result of the interaction among multiple driving factors, with most interactions enhancing the combined effect of two factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report the in-host hepatitis E virus (HEV) quasispecies evolution in a chronically infected patient who was treated with three different regimens of ribavirin (RBV) for nearly 6 years. Sequential plasma samples were collected at different time points and subjected to RNA extraction and deep sequencing using the MiSeq Illumina platforms. Specifically, we RT-PCR amplified a single amplicon from the core region located in the open-reading frame 2 (ORF2). At the nucleotide level (genotype), our analysis showed an increase in the number of rare haplotypes and a drastic reduction in the frequency of the master (most represented) sequence during the period when the virus was found to be insensitive to RBV treatment. Contrarily, at the amino acid level (phenotype), our study revealed conservation of the amino acids, which is represented by a high prevalence of the master sequence. Our findings suggest that using mutagenic antivirals concomitant with high viral loads can lead to the selection and proliferation of a rich set of synonymous haplotypes that express the same phenotype. This can also lead to the selection and proliferation of conservative substitutions that express fitness-enhanced phenotypes. These results have important clinical implications, as they suggest that using mutagenic agents as a monotherapy treatment regimen in the absence of sufficiently effective viral inhibitors can result in diversification and proliferation of a highly diverse quasispecies resistant to further treatment. Therefore, such approaches should be avoided whenever possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children's gait is traditionally understood to mature as young as three years old through pre-adolescence. Studies looking at gait biomechanics suggest that gait matures around three years old, while studies investigating gait variability propose a much later maturation. The studies that have examined children's gait variability did so while the children walked around a track or down hallways that created a discontinuous gait, potentially affecting the measures of variability and the efficacy of the results. Purpose: Therefore, the purpose of our study was to investigate the development of gait dynamics and gait variability in children in a more continuous fashion, in this case, by walking on a treadmill. Methods: To accomplish this, we included four age groups of children, ranging 2–10 years old, walking on a treadmill for at least three minutes while stride time and stride length were collected. Stride time and stride length's variability was then analyzed using linear (mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation) and nonlinear (sample entropy, detrended fluctuation analysis) measures across the varying ages of our participants. Results: Interestingly, both the linear and nonlinear variabilities of the stride time and stride length measures decreased as the groups of children got older. Specifically, CV ST (2–3 (9.3 ± 4%), 8–10 (3.6 ± 0.7%), p < 0.05) and CV SL (2–3 (11.4 ± 3%), 8–10 (4.6 ± 1%), p < 0.05) were our strongest linear measures, and DFA α ST (2–3 (0.97 ± 0.12), 8–10 (0.82 ± 0.10), p < 0.05) and DFA α SL (2–3 (0.91 ± 0.04), 8–10 (0.81 ± 0.03), p < 0.05) were our strongest nonlinear measures, particularly between the youngest and oldest groups. This trend of variability decreasing with age suggests that as children's gait matures, their gait becomes more stable and reliable. Significance: Our study rejects the notion that children's gait is mature by the age of three, as some would suggest. By analyzing the variability of stride time and stride length, we can see that even later into childhood, children's gait continues to change and evolve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comminution is the most power-demanding stage, and the lack of geometallurgical testing, often for financial reasons, may result in an inefficient operation. The Geopyörä rock breakage test was developed with the objective of making mineral variability data more accessible by providing both standard comminution parameters and rock mechanical properties at low cost and with a modest sample size, allowing a larger number of samples to be tested to reduce uncertainties and assure productivity. The objective of this work is to present the results of an extensive validation of this new rock breakage method against two of the main tests currently in use, namely the SMC and Bond ball mill work index tests. More than 100 samples have been tested and the results compared, showing that the new method can accurately estimate the parameters of the traditional tests. This confirms that the new test is a reliable tool for performing comminution and geometallurgical tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinquelaophonte is a genus of laophontid harpacticoid, including 13 valid species around the world. Many of them are known to possess inter- and/or intra-individual variations in their swimming legs. During a survey of the meiofaunal biodiversity of Jeju Island in Korea, specimens of Quinquelaophonte were collected from an intertidal zone off the west coast of Jeju Island. This study examined the morphological characteristics and amplified partial sequence of four genes (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, COX1, and CYTB). As with other Quinquelaophonte species, specimens of this new species showed variability in the chaetotaxy of their swimming legs in both sexes. There was a setal arrangement pattern in females that could be considered a standard, whereas male individuals showed two sets of the chaetotaxy on the fourth swimming legs. The molecular data confirmed that individuals belonged to a single species, regardless of morphological variations. The result of the morphological comparison showed that the new Quinquelaohponte species shared some characteristics with congeneric species but included some specific morphological characters different from its congeners. The new species was named Quinquelaophonte sominer sp. nov. and was presented with detailed descriptions, illustrations, and confocal micrographs. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses were conducted using newly obtained data plus the sequences of other copepods and two Quinquelaophonte species. The result suggested that Q. sominer sp. nov. and two congeners were classified as branched lineages. This discovery brings the total number of species to three in the Northwest Pacific region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: External radiotherapy is a major treatment for localized prostate cancer (PCa). Dose escalation to the whole prostate gland increases biochemical relapse-free survival but also acute and late toxicities. Dose escalation to the dominant index lesion (DIL) only is of growing interest. It requires a robust delineation of the DIL. In this context, we aimed to evaluate the inter-observer variability of DIL delineation. Material and Methods: Two junior radiologists and a senior radiation oncologist delineated DILs on 64 mpMRIs of patients with histologically confirmed PCa. For each mpMRI and each reader, eight individual DIL segmentations were delineated. These delineations were blindly performed from one another and resulted from the individual analysis of the T2, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), b2000, and dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE) sequences, as well as the analysis of combined sequences (T2ADC, T2ADCb2000, T2ADCDCE, and T2ADCb2000DCE). Delineation variability was assessed using the DICE coefficient, Jaccard index, Hausdorff distance measure, and mean distance to agreement. Results: T2, ADC, T2ADC, b2000, T2 + ADC + b2000, T2 + ADC + DCE, and T2 + ADC + b2000 + DCE sequences obtained DICE coefficients of 0.51, 0.50, 0.54, 0.52, 0.54, 0.55, 0.53, respectively, which are significantly higher than the perfusion sequence alone (0.35, p < 0.001). The analysis of other similarity metrics lead to similar results. The tumor volume and PI-RADS classification were positively correlated with the DICE scores. Conclusion: Our study showed that the contours of prostatic lesions were more reproducible on certain sequences but confirmed the great variability of prostatic contours with a maximum DICE coefficient calculated at 0.55 (joint analysis of T2, ADC, and perfusion sequences). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Project success has often been impacted by varying factors, such as conflict arising from managing stakeholders' remuneration, especially bordering on the scale of fees. This paper delves into the intricate landscape of fee variability among built environment professionals in South Africa. By scrutinizing the most recent available data, this research sheds light on the nuanced fee structures prevalent in the industry. To conduct this investigation, a comparative analysis of fee scales across various professions in South Africa was performed. This research employed historical project cost data extracted from an extensive dataset, encompassing project values, fees, and fee percentages for diverse professions involved in projects from 2014 to 2022. This study revealed that low scale levels are associated with poor performance and lead to conditions and attitudes that pose dangers for consultants. This study provides strategies for a firm's resilience and adaptability in the face of the dynamics associated with fees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum [Lam.] Verdc.) is an underutilized pulse crop primarily cultivated in South Asian countries like India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It offers various nutraceutical properties and demonstrates remarkable resilience to both biotic and abiotic stresses. As a result, it has emerged as a promising crop for ensuring future food and nutritional security. The purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional profile of 139 horsegram germplasm lines obtained from 16 Indian states that were conserved at the National Gene Bank of India. Standard analytical methods, including those provided by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), were used for this investigation. The study revealed substantial variability in essential nutrients, such as protein (ranging from 21.8 to 26.7 g/100 g), starch (ranging from 26.2 to 33.0 g/100 g), total soluble sugars (TSSs) (ranging from 0.86 to 12.1 g/100 g), phenolics (ranging from 3.38 to 11.3 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/g), and phytic acid content (ranging from 1.07 to 21.2 mg/g). Noteworthy correlations were observed, including a strong positive correlation between sugars and phenols (r = 0.70) and a moderate negative correlation between protein and starch (r = −0.61) among the studied germplasm lines. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted that the first three principal components contributed to 88.32% of the total variability, with TSSs, phytates, and phenols emerging as the most significant contributors. The cluster analysis grouped the accessions into five clusters, with cluster III containing the accessions with the most desirable traits. The differential distribution of the accessions from north India into clusters I and III suggested a potential geographical influence on the adaptation and selection of genes. This study identified a panel of promising accessions exhibiting multiple desirable traits. These specific accessions could significantly aid quality breeding programs or be directly released as cultivars if they perform well agronomically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adzuki bean (Vigna angularis), known for its rich nutritional composition, holds significant promise in addressing food and nutritional security, particularly for low socioeconomic classes and the predominantly vegetarian and vegan populations worldwide. In this study, we assessed a total of 100 diverse adzuki bean accessions, analyzing essential nutritional compounds using AOAC's official analysis procedures and other widely accepted standard techniques. Our analysis of variance revealed significant genotype variations for all the traits studied. The variability range among different traits was as follows: moisture: 7.5–13.3 g/100 g, ash: 1.8–4.2 g/100 g, protein: 18.0–23.9 g/100 g, starch: 31.0–43.9 g/100 g, total soluble sugar: 3.0–8.2 g/100 g, phytic acid: 0.65–1.43 g/100 g, phenol: 0.01–0.59 g/100 g, antioxidant: 11.4–19.7 mg/100 g GAE. Noteworthy accessions included IC341955 and EC15256, exhibiting very high protein content, while IC341957 and IC341955 showed increased antioxidant activity. To understand intertrait relationships, we computed correlation coefficients between the traits. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that the first four principal components contributed to 63.6% of the variation. Further, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) identified nutri-dense accessions, such as IC360533, characterized by high ash (>4.2 g/100 g) and protein (>23.4 g/100 g) content and low phytic acid (0.652 g/100 g). These promising compositions provide practical support for the development of high-value food and feed varieties using effective breeding strategies, ultimately contributing to improved global food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) can help reduce resource waste and environmental pollution in road construction. However, so far, only a small percentage of RAP materials can be used in road construction. The key obstacles to the application of a recycled asphalt mixture (RAM) with high RAP content are the variability of RAP materials and the difficulty of fully rejuvenating aged asphalt. However, there is still a lack of research on the effect of the variability of RAP materials and recycled asphalt on the quality control of a RAM. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of sieve pretreatment of RAP material using 4.75 mm sieve mesh and the use of composite crumb rubber-modified asphalt (CCRMA) to reclaim aged asphalt on the road performance and frame variability of reclaimed asphalt mixtures. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of the fractionation process of RAP material using 4.75 mm sieve mesh and the use of CCRMA to reclaim aged asphalt on the road performance of a RAM. The results show that the fractionation process can effectively reduce the mitigation of RAP agglomeration and reduce the variability of gradation, which in turn reduces the variability of road performance. The incorporation of CCRMA can effectively improve the high-temperature stability performance and low-temperature cracking resistance. The dynamic stability and the fracture energy of the CRAM (RAM prepared using CCRMA) were four and one and a half times as large as that of the NAM (RAM prepared using base asphalt), respectively. The fractionation process of RAP material and the utilization of CCRMA could help reduce the variability of the RAM while improving the road performance of the RAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]