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This paper proposes a specific algebraic structure and demonstrates its nature as an extension field, enabling the construction of Golomb Costas (GC) arrays. It provides detailed instructions and examples for constructing GC arrays using this extension field, along with a corresponding flowchart. Additionally, the paper conducts a thorough analysis, incorporating calculations and comparisons, to evaluate the autocorrelation of a GC array derived from the extension field compared to that of a diagonal frequency hopping array. The analysis reveals the superior autocorrelation properties of GC arrays based on the extension field. Furthermore, the paper establishes a mathematical model for the signal coded by the frequency hopping array and subsequently simulates and compares the ambiguity function of the signal coded by a GC array with that of a signal coded by a diagonal frequency hopping array. This comparison underscores the thumbtack ambiguity function of frequency hopping signal coded by a GC array. Moreover, the paper thoroughly investigates the relationship between the correlation function of GC arrays and the roots of an algebraic equation in a finite field, and strictly proves the ideal autocorrelation properties of Golomb Costas arrays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defining architectural space comes with multiple and diverse aspects. Our theoretical reflection aims at establishing the base for a new definition, in the sense that theoretical topology, like geometry, is an effective means to define the form of architectural spatiality based on the notion of ambiences. Topological definitions already developed by several renowned architects allow us to build a better understanding of route and sequence and thereby help the development of our analytical model. This research is focused on the museum, which is a public-facing architectural construction. According to the approach, thirty European museums were examined. The data collected for these museums were statistically analysed. Based, on the ambience discontinuities, the sequential analysis allowed us to create ambient topologies by transforming them into ambient events that are linked to the displacement of the user in connection with ambiance change. We endeavor to develop a micro study to reflect on the interaction between different environmental sources as a means to comprehend the influence on the future spatial-energetic behavior. This study lays the groundwork for a novel approach of defining architectural space based on differences in users' perceptions and the environment of a given space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular tools used for the identification of species are heavily reliant on reference DNA sequences and taxonomic annotation. Despite this, there are large gaps in the availability of DNA sequences for many taxonomic groups and for different parts of the globe. Here, a DNA barcode library for the Hymenoptera of New Zealand is presented, based on the COI region for 3,145 sequences assigned to 837 BINs and which represent 231 genera and 236 species. This study provides a DNA barcode for approximately 25% of species and 42% of genera of Hymenoptera in New Zealand. However, when combined with sequences previously deposited in BOLD (a further 170 genera), DNA barcodes are available for 73% of New Zealand Hymenopteran genera. To further increase coverage, future efforts need to focus predominantly on taxa from seven families (Encyrtidae, Pteromalidae s.l., Mymaridae, Eulophidae, Diapriidae, Braconidae and Platygastridae). This database facilitates DNA-based identification of taxa for use in both taxonomic revisions and biodiversity monitoring.

During investigation of common linnet (Linaria cannabina) blood using the buffy coat method one bird with microfilariae in the blood was found. The morphometric description of adult worms corresponded to the Chandlerella sinensis. This species was found for the first time in common linnets. DNA sequences of cox1 and 28S gene fragments of adult worm recovered during necropsy was identical to that from the microfilariae in the bird blood. Phylogenetic analysis of the cox1 gene fragment clustered this parasite with Chandlerella quiscali. Histological examination revealed the presence of microfilariae in the lumen of small capillaries and other blood vessels in different organs, but no inflammations were notice. The greatest number of microfilariae was in the lungs. Even if there was no inflammation, but vessels associated with the lungs were markedly distended with blood, parabronchial walls were thickened and, in some cases, almost completely obstructing the lumen. The large number of microfilariae in lungs indicates possible disturbance of gas exchange in the lungs adversely affected the ability of the bird to exercise and made breathing difficult at rest. The investigation of circadian rhythm of the microfilariae showed that C. sinensis microfilariae in blood of common linnet were more numerous at night and morning and less numerous at midday. The survival rate of mosquitoes infected with C. sinensis microfilariae was significantly lower than that of uninfected mosquitoes.

Understanding how neural circuits generate sequential activity is a longstanding challenge. While foundational theoretical models have shown how sequences can be stored as memories in neural networks with Hebbian plasticity rules, these models considered only a narrow range of Hebbian rules. Here, we introduce a model for arbitrary Hebbian plasticity rules, capturing the diversity of spike-timing-dependent synaptic plasticity seen in experiments, and show how the choice of these rules and of neural activity patterns influences sequence memory formation and retrieval. In particular, we derive a general theory that predicts the tempo of sequence replay. This theory lays a foundation for explaining how cortical tutor signals might give rise to motor actions that eventually become "automatic." Our theory also captures the impact of changing the tempo of the tutor signal. Beyond shedding light on biological circuits, this theory has relevance in artificial intelligence by laying a foundation for frameworks whereby slow and computationally expensive deliberation can be stored as memories and eventually replaced by inexpensive recall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to present the principle of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and its approach in the medical clinic. A comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to the acquisition of high resolution and contrast images in MRI requires an in-depth analysis of the underlying principles and technical aspects involved. MRI has attracted a great interest in the field of medicine because it does not use harmful ionizing radiation to obtain images of the body, tissues, and organs. In this study, we will find out how MRI is useful in diagnostic of different lumbar spine pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let $S=\{s_{1}, s_{2}, \ldots \}$ be an unbounded sequence of positive integers with $s_{n+1}/s_{n}$ approaching $\alpha $ as $n\rightarrow \infty $ and let $\beta>\max (\alpha , 2)$. We show that for all sufficiently large positive integers l , if $A\subset [0, l]$ with $l\in A$ , $\gcd A=1$ and $|A|\geq (2-{k}/{\lambda \beta })l/(\lambda +1)$ , where $\lambda =\lceil {k}/{\beta }\rceil $ , then $kA\cap S\neq \emptyset $ for $2 and $k\geq {2\beta }/{(\beta -2)}$ or for $\beta>3$ and $k\geq 3$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple fruit crinkle viroid (AFCVd) infects apple, hop, and oriental persimmon plants as natural hosts. The genetic diversity of AFCVd populations in persimmons is less well understood than that in apples and hops. In this study, AFCVd was detected in the pericarp of persimmon fruits harvested from a private garden tree in Hyogo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Shiga Prefectures of the Kinki region, Japan. Sequence analyses revealed that the AFCVd population in each persimmon sample comprised at least 2–5 sequence variants. The infectivity of one or two sequence variants in each persimmon sample was examined using dimeric linear RNA transcribed from a cDNA clone containing the dimer of each consensus sequence. Three predominant variants (perHS1, perOK1, and perKU1) had infectivity in tomato plants; however, one variant (perSN1) and a rare variant (perHS2) did not. In contrast, another variant (perSN2) in the persimmon from Shiga was confirmed to be infectious because it had a sequence identical to the predominant infectious variant, perOK1. Examination of the AFCVd population in the Shiga persimmon using restriction enzyme digestion and direct sequencing indicated that the predominant variant was perSN2 rather than perSN1. The results show that the AFCVd populations in persimmons are genetically diverse, with at least one predominant sequence variant identified in each persimmon being capable of infecting tomatoes, and a rare variant that may be incapable of infecting tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to detect Toxocara cati in cats by microscopic and molecular analysis using PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. Materials and Methods: Randomly selected 200 cat feces samples were taken from various private veterinarian clinics in Baghdad. To identify eggs of T. cati by the flotation method, DNA from 100 cat feces was extracted, and one pair of ITS2 region-specific primers was used for polymerase chain reaction, followed by sequencing. Results: Toxocara cati infection rate was found to be 23 out of 100 fecal samples using PCR. Ten DNA product sequence data studies showed 98%-100% similarity to the 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene sequences found in the Gene Bank. The study incidence showed that the overall infection rate by microscopic examination was 23%, with no significant difference between stray cats (27%), and domestic cats (19%). After studying the effect of several epidemiological parameters on the infection rate, it was found that the infection rates of stray and domestic cats were higher in kittens under six months of age, at 46.1% and 27%, respectively, whereas rates were lower for the adult than six months was 11.5% of domestic cats and 14.7% of stray cats. The percentage of stray and domestic male cats that were registered was 35.5%, whereas the female cats registered were 20.6% and 17.5%, respectively. Conclusion: Cats are significant clinical reservoirs for zoonotic parasites. In Iraq, Baghdad has a high incidence of T. cati detections. Compared to conventional methods, PCR is thought to be a more sensitive, accurate diagnostic procedure that confirms the species' identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to detect Toxocara cati in cats by microscopic and molecular analysis using PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. Materials and Methods: Randomly selected 200 cat feces samples were taken from various private veterinarian clinics in Baghdad. To identify eggs of T. cati by the flotation method, DNA from 100 cat feces was extracted, and one pair of ITS2 region-specific primers was used for polymerase chain reaction, followed by sequencing. Results: Toxocara cati infection rate was found to be 23 out of 100 fecal samples using PCR. Ten DNA product sequence data studies showed 98%–100% similarity to the 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene sequences found in the Gene Bank. The study incidence showed that the overall infection rate by microscopic examination was 23%, with no significant difference between stray cats (27%), and domestic cats (19%). After studying the effect of several epidemiological parameters on the infec¬tion rate, it was found that the infection rates of stray and domestic cats were higher in kittens under six months of age, at 46.1% and 27%, respectively, whereas rates were lower for the adult than six months was 11.5% of domestic cats and 14.7% of stray cats. The percentage of stray and domestic male cats that were registered was 35.5%, whereas the female cats registered were 20.6% and 17.5%, respectively. Conclusion: Cats are significant clinical reservoirs for zoonotic parasites. In Iraq, Baghdad has a high incidence of T. cati detections. Compared to conventional methods, PCR is thought to be a more sensitive, accurate diagnostic procedure that confirms the species' identity. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(2.000): 392-397]

Apparently, conceptual base of the sequence stratigraphy is one of the most acknowledged methodologies in the geological world at the present time for the sedimentary strata structure prediction. It is based on the complex analysis of the seismic, stratigraphic and sedimentary data on the depositional bodies where the structure and facies filling is regulated by the relative sea level changes. The Lower Cretaceous section of the Western Siberia in this regard is the unique object, as it is represented by the full range of the clastic depositional environments – from relatively deep-water to the continental, which are very sensitive to the conditions changes. Sequence-stratigraphic analysis results can be used to complete the pragmatic tasks in the petroleum geology as the analysis is based on the reconstruction of the sedimentogenesis processes in the past, and the understanding of that processes is the key to the generalized depositional model development. This model can be used to create the models, which can be applied to the unique local objects that occur in the Lower Cretaceous section.

The HIV-1 Rev protein expressed in the early stage of virus replication is involved in the nuclear export of some forms of virus RNA. Naturally occurring polymorphisms in the Rev protein could influence its activity. The association between the genetic features of different virus variants and HIV infection pathogenesis has been discussed for many years. In this study, Rev diversity among HIV-1 group M clades was analyzed to note the signatures that could influence Rev activity and, subsequently, clinical characteristics. From the Los Alamos HIV Sequence Database, 4962 Rev sequences were downloaded and 26 clades in HIV-1 group M were analyzed for amino acid changes, conservation in consensus sequences, and the presence of clade-specific amino acid substitutions (CSSs) and the Wu–Kabat protein variability coefficient (WK). Subtypes G, CRF 02_AG, B, and A1 showed the largest amino acid changes and diversity. The mean conservation of the Rev protein was 80.8%. In consensus sequences, signatures that could influence Rev activity were detected. In 15 out of 26 consensus sequences, an insertion associated with the reduced export activity of the Rev protein, 95QSQGTET96, was identified. A total of 32 CSSs were found in 16 clades, wherein A6 had the 41Q substitution in the functionally significant region of Rev. The high values of WK coefficient in sites 51 and 82, located on the Rev interaction surface, indicate the susceptibility of these positions to evolutionary replacements. Thus, the noted signatures require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gasoline blending scheduling uses resource allocation and operation sequencing to meet a refinery's production requirements. The presence of nonlinearity, integer constraints, and a large number of decision variables adds complexity to this problem, posing challenges for traditional and evolutionary algorithms. This paper introduces a novel multiobjective optimization approach driven by a diffusion model (named DMO), which is designed specifically for gasoline blending scheduling. To address integer constraints and generate feasible schedules, the diffusion model creates multiple intermediate distributions between Gaussian noise and the feasible domain. Through iterative processes, the solutions transition from Gaussian noise to feasible schedules while optimizing the objectives using the gradient descent method. DMO achieves simultaneous objective optimization and constraint adherence. Comparative tests are conducted to evaluate DMO's performance across various scales. The experimental results demonstrate that DMO surpasses state-of-the-art multiobjective evolutionary algorithms in terms of efficiency when solving gasoline blending scheduling problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the study was to externally validate two AI models for the classification of prostate mpMRI sequences and segmentation of the prostate gland on T2WI. Materials and methods: MpMRI data from 719 patients were retrospectively collected from two hospitals, utilizing nine MR scanners from four different vendors, over the period from February 2018 to May 2022. Med3D deep learning pretrained architecture was used to perform image classification,UNet-3D was used to segment the prostate gland. The images were classified into one of nine image types by the mode. The segmentation model was validated using T2WI images. The accuracy of the segmentation was evaluated by measuring the DSC, VS,AHD.Finally,efficacy of the models was compared for different MR field strengths and sequences. Results: 20,551 image groups were obtained from 719 MR studies. The classification model accuracy is 99%, with a kappa of 0.932. The precision, recall, and F1 values for the nine image types had statistically significant differences, respectively (all P < 0.001). The accuracy for scanners 1.436 T, 1.5 T, and 3.0 T was 87%, 86%, and 98%, respectively (P < 0.001). For segmentation model, the median DSC was 0.942 to 0.955, the median VS was 0.974 to 0.982, and the median AHD was 5.55 to 6.49 mm,respectively.These values also had statistically significant differences for the three different magnetic field strengths (all P < 0.001). Conclusion: The AI models for mpMRI image classification and prostate segmentation demonstrated good performance during external validation, which could enhance efficiency in prostate volume measurement and cancer detection with mpMRI. Clinical relevance statement: These models can greatly improve the work efficiency in cancer detection, measurement of prostate volume and guided biopsies. Keypoints: 1st Key Point: Robust gland segmentation is critical for cancer detection, measurement of prostate volume and guided biopsies. 2nd Key Point: Artificial Intelligence models achieved excellent agreement with radiologist consensus for prostate sequence recognition and segmentation. 3rd Key Point: We recommend 3.0 T and T2WI-nan preferred over 1.5T and T2WI_Fs in the prostate scan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the specialized knowledge mobilized by a mathematics teacher in the selection and use of examples for teaching sequences. Taking an experimental case study approach, we analyse the examples deployed in a series of third-year secondary level lessons on sequences and identify the different knowledge subdomains activated according to the mathematics teachers' specialized knowledge analytical model. We will analyse active and passive examples, pointing out the mathematical entity that is being exemplified and the aspect of this entity which is being emphasized by the example. The results identify the different subdomains and categories which are drawn on in the selection and use of examples, along with the various interconnections across knowledge subdomains which interact in the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let G be the greedy algorithm that, for each θ ∈ (0 , 1 ] , produces an infinite sequence of positive integers (a n) n = 1 ∞ satisfying ∑ n = 1 ∞ 1 / a n = θ. For natural numbers p < q , let Υ (p , q) denote the smallest positive integer j such that p divides q + j. Continuing Nathanson's study of two-term underapproximations, we show that whenever Υ (p , q) ⩽ 3 , G gives the (unique) best two-term underapproximation of p / q ; i.e., if 1 / x 1 + 1 / x 2 < p / q for some x 1 , x 2 ∈ N , then 1 / x 1 + 1 / x 2 ⩽ 1 / a 1 + 1 / a 2 . However, the same conclusion fails for every Υ (p , q) ⩾ 4. Next, we study stepwise underapproximation by G. Let e m = θ − ∑ n = 1 m 1 / a n be the m th error term. We compare 1 / a m to a superior underapproximation of e m − 1 , denoted by N / b m (N ∈ N ⩾ 2 ), and characterize when 1 / a m = N / b m . One characterization is a m + 1 ⩾ N a m 2 − a m + 1. Hence, for rational θ , we only have 1 / a m = N / b m for finitely many m. However, there are irrational numbers such that 1 / a m = N / b m for all m. Along the way, various auxiliary results are encountered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we propose a new signal set design for physical cell identification (PCI) in sub-THz OFDM systems. We also derive useful properties of proposed signal set, which can be employed to assign PCI and reduce interference. The proposed signal set is easy to generate because it is designed using binary m-sequences. These sequences exhibit the relationship of being preferred pairs to each other. The performance of the proposed signal set is similar to that of the secondary synchronization signal (SSS) for 5G NR, but the possible number of signal set is much larger than that of SSS for 5G NR. Furthermore, the proposed signal set contains SSS for 5G NR and a binary Gold sequence set as subsets. The proposed signal set can provide approximately 100 times more signals than the SSS of 5G NR. The signal to noise ratio (SNR) loss of the proposed signal is less than 1 dB for 4 times more sequences relative SSS of 5G NR and less than 2 dB for 25 times more sequences than the SSS of 5G NR.

The central problem that Vavilov was investigating was the overall concept of global plant genetic resources. The theoretical basis of this concept consisted of the law of homologous series in variation, research on the problem of species as a system, botanical and geographical bases of plant breeding, and the key theory of the centers of origin of cultivated plants. The VIR global collection of plant genetic resources collected by Vavilov and his associates from all over the world reflects the fullness of botanical, morphological and genetic diversity, and can be used for historical, evolutionary, phylogenetic and applied breeding research aimed at unlocking the potential of all the collection material. The whole diversity of cultivated oats, as was proved by Vavilov, had originated from segetal weeds. This process can be clearly traced in Spain on the example of the cultivated diploid species A. strigosa, A. abyssinica in Ethiopia, A. byzantina in Turkey and Iran, and on segetal forms of A. sativa. The studies of the morphological features as a whole do not yield a complete picture of the evolutionary and systematic status of some oat species and forms. The methods and approaches that use DNA markers and genomic technologies, and are promising for the study of oat polymorphism and phylogeny have been actively researched recently. A number of works devoted to the molecular aspects of the evolution and phylogeny of the genus Avena have recently appeared. The research uses various markers of genes, gene regions, intergenic spacers (internal and external), both nuclear and chloroplast and mitochondrial, genomic approaches and other modern methods. On the basis of a comprehensive study of the complete intraspecific diversity from different zones of the distribution range of cultivated oat species as well as on the basis of an analysis of data on the geography of forms and species distribution ranges, it was established that the process of hexaploid species formation also took place in the western part of the Mediterranean, and subsequently, when moving eastward, these forms started occupying all the vast spaces in the region of the Southwest Asian center, forming a large intraspecific diversity of wild forms and weedy ones in transit to cultivated hexaploid oat species. An analysis of the intraspecific diversity of landraces has specified the centers of morphogenesis of all cultivated oat species. The phylogenetic analysis of the representative intraspecific diversity of cultivated and wild Avena species carried out using next generation sequencing (NGS) showed that diploid species with A-genome variants are in fact not primary diploids, but a peculiar Mediterranean introgressive hybridization complex of species that sporadically enter into interspecific hybridization. It was established that the tetraploid cultivated species A. abyssinica had most likely originated from the wild A. vaviloviana. An analysis of the ways of A. sativa and A. byzantina domestication showed that the most widespread ribotype of the A. sativa hexaploid was inherited from A. ludoviciana, and the second most widespread one, from A. magna, while A. byzantina has two unique ribotype families, most likely inherited from an extinct oat species or a still undiscovered cryptospecies.

Leptospirosis is a disease caused by the bacteria of the Leptospira genus, which can usually be acquired by humans through contact with urine from infected animals; it is also possible for this urine to contaminate soils and bodies of water. The disease can have deadly consequences in some extreme cases. Fortunately, until now, patients with leptospirosis have responded adequately to treatment with doxycycline and azithromycin, and no cases of antibiotic resistance have been reported. However, with the extensive use of such medications, more bacteria, such as Staphylococci and Enterococci, are becoming resistant. The purpose of this study is to determine the presence of genes related to antibiotic resistance in the Leptospira genus using bioinformatic tools, which have not been undertaken in the past. Whole genomes from the 69 described Leptospira species were downloaded from NCBI’s GeneBank and analyzed using CARD (The Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistant Database) and RAST (Rapid Annotations using Subsystem Technology). After a detailed genomic search, 12 genes associated with four mechanisms were found: resistance to beta-lactamases, vancomycin, aminoglycoside adenylyltransferases, as well as multiple drug efflux pumps. Some of these genes are highly polymorphic among different species, and some of them are present in multiple copies in the same species. In conclusion, this study provides evidence of the presence of genes related to antibiotic resistance in the genomes of some species of the genus Leptospira, and it is the starting point for future experimental evaluation to determine whether these genes are transcriptionally active in some species and serovars.

Background: Identification and characterization of the endophytic microorganism, is gaining their underestimated significance in influencing health, performance, and other biological attributions of plants in general and forest tree species in particular. Because of the scarcity of information on the endophytic microbiome of the Hyrcanian forests species, including hornbeam (Carpinus betulus L.) trees, as a major constituent thereof, the present study aimed at the identification and partial characterization of the endophytic Bacillus species of Carpinus betulus as the first step in this context. Methods and results: Shoot samples were collected from the Hyrcanian forest locations of Mazandaran and Golestan provinces in Iran. Bacterial strains were isolated from the surface-disinfected shoot segments and subjected to phenotypic characterization. Following assessment of the genetic diversity of the isolates by BOX-PCR fingerprinting, the representative isolates of each of the 15 groups were used for further characterization. Analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the 16S rDNA and HSP60 gene of the isolates led to the identification of 10 species. The predominant species was B. cereus followed by B. subtilis. The other species encountered were B. thuringiensis, Priestia filamentosa, B. velezensis, B. mojavensis, B. amyloliquefaciens, B. safensis, P. aryabhattai, and Gottfriedia acidiceleris. Most isolates possessed characteristics which could contribute to the biocontrol potential of the isolates, including formation of biofilm, production of hydrogen cyanide, tolerant to relatively high concentration of sodium chloride, and antibacterial activity. Conclusions: Ten Bacillus species were identified as the prevailing endophytic species of C. betulus in the Hyrcanian forest of northern Iran, most turned up to possess biological activities involved in biocontrol capability of the isolates against some plant pathogens. These potentially capable bacteria could be implemented in the promotion of plant growth as well as in the biological control of pathogens. This is the first report on the characterization and elucidation of the diversity of the potentially beneficial endophytic species of Bacillus and the closely related genera living in the internal tissues of hornbeam trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this note, we show that, for any real number τ ∈ [ 1 2 , 1) , any finite set of positive integers K and any integer s 1 ≥ 2 , the sequence of integers s 1 , s 2 , s 3 , ... satisfying s i + 1 − s i ∈ K if s i is a prime number, and 2 ≤ s i + 1 ≤ τ s i if s i is a composite number, is bounded from above. The bound is given in terms of an explicit constant depending on τ , s 1 and the maximal element of K only. In particular, if K is a singleton set and for each composite s i the integer s i + 1 in the interval [ 2 , τ s i ] is chosen by some prescribed rule, e.g., s i + 1 is the largest prime divisor of s i , then the sequence s 1 , s 2 , s 3 , ... is periodic. In general, we show that the sequences satisfying the above conditions are all periodic if and only if either K = { 1 } and τ ∈ [ 1 2 , 3 4) or K = { 2 } and τ ∈ [ 1 2 , 5 9) . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fetal surgery for open spina bifida (OSB) requires comprehensive preoperative assessment using imaging for appropriate patient selection and to evaluate postoperative efficacy and complications. We explored patient access and conduct of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for prenatal assessment of OSB patients eligible for fetal surgery. We compared imaging acquisition and reporting to the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology MRI performance guidelines. Material and methods: We surveyed access to fetal MRI for OSB in referring fetal medicine units (FMUs) in the UK and Ireland, and two NHS England specialist commissioned fetal surgery centers (FSCs) at University College London Hospital, and University Hospitals KU Leuven Belgium. To study MRI acquisition protocols, we retrospectively analyzed fetal MRI images before and after fetal surgery for OSB. Results: MRI for fetal OSB was accessible with appropriate specialists available to supervise, perform, and report scans. The average time to arrange a fetal MRI appointment from request was 4 ± 3 days (range, 0–10), the average scan time available was 37 ± 16 min (range, 20–80 min), with 15 ± 11 min (range, 0–30 min) extra time to repeat sequences as required. Specific MRI acquisition protocols, and MRI reporting templates were available in only 32% and 18% of units, respectively. Satisfactory T2‐weighted (T2W) brain imaging acquired in three orthogonal planes was achieved preoperatively in all centers, and 6 weeks postoperatively in 96% of FSCs and 78% of referring FMUs. However, for T2W spine image acquisition referring FMUs were less able to provide three orthogonal planes presurgery (98% FSC vs. 50% FMU, p < 0.001), and 6 weeks post‐surgery (100% FSC vs. 48% FMU, p < 0.001). Other standard imaging recommendations such as T1‐weighted (T1W), gradient echo (GE) or echoplanar fetal brain and spine imaging in one or two orthogonal planes were more likely available in FSCs compared to FMUs pre‐ and post‐surgery (p < 0.001). Conclusions: There was timely access to supervised MRI for OSB fetal surgery assessment. However, the provision of images of the fetal brain and spine in sufficient orthogonal planes, which are required for determining eligibility and to determine the reversal of hindbrain herniation after fetal surgery, were less frequently acquired. Our evidence suggests the need for specific guidance in relation to fetal MRI for OSB. We propose an example guidance for MRI acquisition and reporting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Translating the sacred in a so-called divine language has been shown to be so difficult and challenging a task for translators of the Bible or the Qur'an. The human reproduction of the divine product(ion) has biblically and qur'anically been found to raise (in)soluble challenges and (in)surmountable hurdles in bicultural and cross-cultural communication and transfer in translation. One great challenge or big obstacle thereof is the (un)transferability of noncanonical ancillary oppositions from SL (QA) to TL (E) which is sought to be explored and investigated by the current study from a linguistic-translational perspective. Based on corpus data across several languages, noncanonical ancillary opposition has been shown to co-occur in preponderant syntactic frames loaned from fellow categories, such as coordination, subordination, transition, and so forth, to perform cross-categorial discourse functions in canonical, semicanonical, and noncanonical configurations, and to entertain a propensity and penchant for special multi-principled and rulegoverned sequences based on morphology, gender, agency, and so on. The specific objectives of this study are to compare and contrast SL and TL frequent frameworks and ordering sequences in the process and product of translation. It was found that a number of these frames and functions have gone untended and unrendered by the two Qur'an translators under scrutiny due to their incognizance of colligational forms and discursive functions as translation units of functional sentence perspective contributing to the semantic ends of intraversially sentential structures. It was also revealed that SL paradigmatic lexical choices were too semantically distinct and complex to lexicalize into TL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that it is a challenge to find constant amplitude sequences with perfect autocorrelation over small alphabets. In this work we present a construction that provides sequences with perfect cyclic autocorrelation over different alphabets using the value zero only once or twice in their period. The constructions provide a big variety of periods also at moderate lengths and the corresponding sequences may be considered to be of 'almost' constant amplitude. These sequences have applications in NMR spectroscopy with low excitation power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background and objectives: The beneficial characteristics of endophytic bacteria in general and environmental safety, features of Bacillus spp. in particular, have made them potentially efficacious bacteria for plant growth promotion as well as plant defense elicitation against biotic and abiotic stresses. Given that the preservation of biodiversity and sustainability of the Hyrcanian forests in Iran is of utmost importance ecologically and environmentally, proper management of this ecosystem demands considerable attention and care. Studying the microbiome structure and activities, including determination of microorganisms living as endophytes or commensals can be regarded as the starting steps in this context. This study was aimed at the molecular identification and physiological characterization of endophytic Bacillus isolates recovered from the roots of hornbeam (Carpinus betulus L.) trees in some different locations of Hyrcanian forests. Methodology: Samples of hornbeam roots were randomly collected from Mazandaran and Golestan provinces, Iran, in the early spring of 2020. Root segments were surface-disinfected, washed in sterile distilled water (SDW) and crushed in drops of SDW using a sterile mortar and pestle. Isolation of bacteria was done by spreading drops of the suspension on plates of tryptic soy agar (TSA). Single colonies were selected after 3-4 days of incubation at 28°C and restreaked on TSA to obtain pure cultures. Initial identification of the isolates was based on colony morphology, Gram-stain reaction, position of endospores, and production of catalase and oxidase. The isolates were characterized phenotypically, and their diversity was assessed by comparing their DNA fragment patterns following their amplification by REP-, BOX- and IS50-PCR and electrophoresis on agarose gels. The data were converted into a binary matrix using TotalLab TL120 software, where the digits 1/0 represented the presence/absence of a DNA band. Similarity, matrix and clustering were generated using NTSYS 2.02e software based on the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA) clustering algorithm. A representative isolate was selected for each of the DNA profile groups and a fragment of the 16S rRNA and HSP60 genes of each was amplified by PCR. PCR products were sequenced by Microsynth company (Switzerland) through the Sanger sequencing method. The nucleotide sequences were aligned and compared with those of a collection of Bacillus species retrieved from GenBank using the BLAST program. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using the Maximum-Likelihood and Neighbor-Joining methods with 1000 bootstraps in MEGA X software package. Antibacterial activity of Bacillus isolates against Brenneria roseae, the causal agent of hornbeam wetwood disease, was investigated using sterilized blank paper disk impregnated with extracts prepared in dichloromethane. The isolates were assessed for their capacity, to produce Indole acetic acid (IAA), hydrogen cyanide, protease, and biofilm. Results: Thirty bacterial strains were isolated from hornbeam roots on TSA medium and subsequently characterized. The absence of bacterial colonies on the TSA plates inoculated with the final rinse water from the uncrushed bark fragments indicated the effectiveness of the surface disinfection procedure. The isolates were grouped into three clusters based on their phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. Comparison of the nucleotide sequences of the 16S rDNA and HSP60 with the sequences obtained from GenBank (NCBI) led to the identification of Bacillus thuringiensis, B. subtilis, and B. mycoides as the species constituting the three clusters, with B. thuringiensis being the predominant group. B. subtilis was the most populated and B. mycoides the least encountered species. Phylogenetic analysis based on the HSP60 gene sequence proved to be a reliable approach for determining the Bacillus species. IAA production level varied from eight to 75 mg/L among the species, with B. mycoides isolates producing the highest and B. subtilis the lowest levels of IAA. Most of the isolates had the capability to produce lipase, gelatinase, lecithinase, protease, and amylase. The isolates of B. thuringiensis produced higher levels of protease than the rest of the isolates. Biofilm production was particularly prominent in isolates of B. subtilis. The dichloromethane extract of B. subtilis isolate rAqa2 exhibited the highest growth inhibition (18.3 ± 0.25mm in diameter) of Brenneria roseae. Conclusion: A high level of genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity existed among the endophyte isolates recovered from the roots of C. betulus, despite their isolation from a common source species. This could be partly justified by viewing the Hyrcanian forests as a mixed-species ecosystem and a source of microbial consortia that could protect plants against stresses. This study is the first investigation on the molecular identification and characterization of endophytic Bacillus isolates from hornbeam roots in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is of exceptional importance in the diagnostics and monitoring of multiple sclerosis (MS); however, a close interdisciplinary cooperation between neurologists in private practice, (neuro)radiological practices, hospitals or specialized MS centers is only rarely established. In particular, there is a lack of standardized MRI protocols for image acquisition as well as established quality parameters, which guarantee the comparability of MRI records; however, this is a fundamental prerequisite for an effective application of MRI in the treatment of MS patients, e.g., for making the diagnosis or treatment monitoring. To address these challenges a group of neurologists and (neuro)radiologists developed a consensus proposal for standardization of image acquisition, interpretation and transmission of results and for improvement in interdisciplinary cooperation. This pilot project in the metropolitan area of Essen used a modified Delphi process and was based on the most up to date scientific knowledge. The recommendation takes the medical, economic, temporal and practical aspects of MRI in MS into consideration. The model of interdisciplinary cooperation between radiologists and neurologists with the aim of a regional standardization of MRI could serve as an example for other regions of Germany in order to optimize MRI for MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amylase is an indispensable hydrolase in insect growth and development. Its varied enzymatic parameters cause insects to have strong stress resistance. Amylase gene replication is a very common phenomenon in insects, and different copies of amylase genes enable changes in its location and function. In addition, the classification, structure, and interaction between insect amylase inhibitors and amylases have also invoked the attention of researchers. Some plant-derived amylase inhibitors have inhibitory activities against insect amylases and even mammalian amylases. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have clarified the effects of pesticides on the amylase activity of target and non-target pests, which provides a theoretical basis for exploring safe and efficient pesticides, while the exact lethal mechanisms and safety in field applications remain unclear. Here, we summarize the most recent advances in insect amylase studies, including its sequence and characteristics and the regulation of amylase inhibitors (α-AIs). Importantly, the application of amylases as the nanocide trigger, RNAi, or other kinds of pesticide targets will be discussed. A comprehensive foundation will be provided for applying insect amylases to the development of new-generation insect management tools and improving the specificity, stability, and safety of pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When multiple atmospheric rivers (ARs) occur in rapid succession, the combined effect on the hydrologic system can lead to more flooding and damage than would be expected from the individual events. This temporally compounding risk is a source of growing concern for water managers in California. We present a novel moving average‐based definition of AR "sequences" that identifies the time periods of elevated hydrologic hazard that occur during and after consecutive AR events. This marks the first quantitative evaluation of when temporal compounding is contributing to AR flood risk. We also assess projected changes in sequence frequency, intensity, and duration in California using the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Seamless System for Prediction and EArth system Research (GFDL SPEAR) global coupled model. Sequence frequency increases over time and is fairly uniform across the state under both intermediate (SSP2–4.5) and very high (SSP5–8.5) emissions scenarios, with the largest changes occurring by the end of the century (+0.72 sequences/year in SSP2–4.5, +1.13 sequences/year in SSP5–8.5). Sequence intensity and duration both see increases in the medians and extreme values of their respective distributions relative to the historical baselines. In particular, "super‐sequence" events longer than 60 days are projected to occur 2–3x more frequently and to emerge in places that have never seen them in the historical record. In a world where California precipitation is becoming more variable, our definition of sequences will help identify when and where hydrologic impacts will be most extreme, which can in turn support better management of the state's highly variable water resources and inform future flood mitigation strategies. Plain Language Summary: Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are a type of storm that are vital to water resources in the western United States, but can also cause significant flooding and damage. Back‐to‐back AR events have historically been a source of concern for water managers because the compound effect of multiple events together can increase the probability of damaging floods. We present a definition of AR "sequences" that identifies periods of time where the likelihood of compound effects is increased. We look at the relationship between sequences, runoff, and soil moisture in California and show that sequences are in fact aligning with time windows of elevated hydrologic hazard in the historical record. We then look at sequences in two future climate projections and find that sequence frequency, intensity, and duration are all projected to increase with increasing emissions levels. In particular, "super‐sequences" more than 60 days long are projected to become two to three times more frequent across all of California. Our definition of sequences captures and communicates new information about the risk associated with temporally compounding hydrologic events in present and future climates. Key Points: We introduce atmospheric river (AR) sequences as a way to measure the hydrologic hazard from temporally compounding (back‐to‐back) ARsAR sequences in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Seamless System for Prediction and EArth system Research (GFDL SPEAR) model projections increase in frequency, intensity, and duration in California by the end of the century"Super‐sequences" over 60 days long drive the projected increase in frequency and present a growing water management threat in California [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexibility is a hallmark of memories that depend on the hippocampus. For navigating animals, flexibility is necessitated by environmental changes such as blocked paths and extinguished food sources. To better understand the neural basis of this flexibility, we recorded hippocampal replays in a spatial memory task where barriers as well as goals were moved between sessions to see whether replays could adapt to new spatial and reward contingencies. Strikingly, replays consistently depicted new goal-directed trajectories around each new barrier configuration and largely avoided barrier violations. Barrier-respecting replays were learned rapidly and did not rely on place cell remapping. These data distinguish sharply between place field responses, which were largely stable and remained tied to sensory cues, and replays, which changed flexibly to reflect the learned contingencies in the environment and suggest sequenced activations such as replay to be an important link between the hippocampus and flexible memory.

In this study, phylogenetic analysis of Şah and Paşa apple genotypes was performed using nrDNA ITS sequences. After the plant leaves were brought to the laboratory, gDNAs were obtained by genomic DNA isolation method. PCR amplification was performed using primers ITS4 and ITS5A. ITS sequences of some apple and Rosaceae species were retrieved from NCBI, bioinformatics analyzes were made with Bioedit 7.2.3, Finch TV 1.4.0 and MEGA 6.0 programs and phylogenetic trees were constructed. In the study, ITS sequence length of the Paşa apple genotype was 656 bp, and the ITS sequence length of the Şah apple genotype was 649 bp. Only in the maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree constructed using sequences of apple genotypes, Paşa and Şah apple genotypes appeared in the same clade as Malus domestica cultivar="Casciana'' and Malus domestica cultivar="Rotella''. In the phylogenetic tree generated including other species belonging to the Rosaceae family; apple genotypes Pyrus, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Sorbus, Eriobotrya and Prunus were detected in a same clade. Overall results clearly suggested that the ITS sequences were both suitable for differentiation between the selected genera and were compatible with previous phylogenetic studies.

Extended Abstract Introduction and Objective: Because of possessing a myriad of biological features useful in the biocontrol area, Bacillus species have been in the forefront of studies in this vast yet expanding area of research. Given the preservation of biodiversity and sustainability of the Hyrcanian ecosystems are of utmost importance ecologically and environmentally proper management of this ecosystem warrants serious attention and care. Studies on the microbiome and identification of the species living as endophytes and commensals are by itself a vast area of research in this regard. The present study was aimed at the identification and preliminary biological characterization of the Bacillus strains living as endophyte in the roots of the oriental hornbeam (Carpinus orientalis) growing in Mazandaran and Semnan provinces. Material and Methods: Samples of oriental hornbeam roots were randomly collected from the mountain site of southern Mazandaran and northern Semnan in the Spring 2018. Root segments were surface-disinfected, washed in sterile distilled water (SDW) and crushed in drops of SDW in sterile mortar and pestle. Isolation of bacteria were done following spreading drops of the suspension on plates of tryptic soy agar (TSA) and 3-4 days incubation at 28˚C. The isolates were characterized phenotypically and their protein profiles were determined by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel. Diversity of the isolates were assayed by comparing DNA fragment pattern on agarose gels after their amplification by REP-, BOX- and IS-50 PCR. A representative isolate from each of the four DNA profile groups was selected and a 1500bp fragment of the 16S rDNA of each amplified by PCR and sequenced. The nucleotide sequences were aligned and compared with those of a collection of Bacillus species deposited in GenBank using the BLASTn program. A phylogenetic tree of the isolates was constructed using the Maximum-Likelihood method. The ability of the isolates to produce IAA, hydrogen cyanide, protease and biofilm was evaluated. Results: Thirty Bacillus isolates were recovered from the roots of hornbeam on TSA medium. Based on their phenotypic and molecular characteristics the isolates were differentiated into four groups. Comparison of the nucleotide sequences of their 16S rDNA with the sequences retrieved from GenBank indicated affiliation of the isolates with Bacillus thuringensis, B. cereus, B. subtilis, and B. velezensis among which Bacillus thuringiensis was the most prevalent and B. subtilis the most populated group. All isolates produced indole acetic acid at 5 to 85 mgl- with B. thuringiensis producing the highest and B. velezensis the lowest concentration of the hormone. The majority of isolates were capable of producing lipase, gelatinase, lecithinase, protease, and amylase. Isolates of B. cereus and B. thuringiensis were considerably more proteolytic among all. Producing of biofilm was confined to the isolates of B. velezensis. Conclusion: The possession of and the diversity in the capacity of producing various biologically beneficial biochemical and enzymes and of having other attributes of value in biocontrol, makes the Bacillus spp. understudy as potentially capable bacteria in the promotion of plant growth and in the biological control of pathogens. Isolates of B. thuringiensis and B. cereus appeared to be superior among the four species studies. This is the first report on the identification and partial characterization of the potentially beneficial Bacillus species living as endophyte in the root tissues of oriental hornbeam in Iran.

Abstract When multiple atmospheric rivers (ARs) occur in rapid succession, the combined effect on the hydrologic system can lead to more flooding and damage than would be expected from the individual events. This temporally compounding risk is a source of growing concern for water managers in California. We present a novel moving average‐based definition of AR “sequences” that identifies the time periods of elevated hydrologic hazard that occur during and after consecutive AR events. This marks the first quantitative evaluation of when temporal compounding is contributing to AR flood risk. We also assess projected changes in sequence frequency, intensity, and duration in California using the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Seamless System for Prediction and EArth system Research (GFDL SPEAR) global coupled model. Sequence frequency increases over time and is fairly uniform across the state under both intermediate (SSP2–4.5) and very high (SSP5–8.5) emissions scenarios, with the largest changes occurring by the end of the century (+0.72 sequences/year in SSP2–4.5, +1.13 sequences/year in SSP5–8.5). Sequence intensity and duration both see increases in the medians and extreme values of their respective distributions relative to the historical baselines. In particular, “super‐sequence” events longer than 60 days are projected to occur 2–3x more frequently and to emerge in places that have never seen them in the historical record. In a world where California precipitation is becoming more variable, our definition of sequences will help identify when and where hydrologic impacts will be most extreme, which can in turn support better management of the state's highly variable water resources and inform future flood mitigation strategies.

In this study, phylogenetic analysis of Şah and Paşa apple genotypes was performed using nrDNA ITS sequences. After the plant leaves were brought to the laboratory, gDNAs were obtained by genomic DNA isolation method. PCR amplification was performed using primers ITS4 and ITS5A. ITS sequences of some apple and Rosaceae species were retrieved from NCBI, bioinformatics analyzes were made with Bioedit 7.2.3, Finch TV 1.4.0 and MEGA 6.0 programs and phylogenetic trees were constructed. In the study, ITS sequence length of the Paşa apple genotype was 656 bp, and the ITS sequence length of the Şah apple genotype was 649 bp. Only in the maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree constructed using sequences of apple genotypes, Paşa and Şah apple genotypes appeared in the same clade as Malus domestica cultivar="Casciana' and Malus domestica cultivar="Rotella'. In the phylogenetic tree generated including other species belonging to the Rosaceae family; apple genotypes Pyrus, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Sorbus, Eriobotrya and Prunus were detected in a same clade. Overall results clearly suggested that the ITS sequences were both suitable for differentiation between the selected genera and were compatible with previous phylogenetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]