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The Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD), widely recognized as the gold-standard reference map of human genetic variation, has largely overlooked tandem repeat (TR) expansions, despite the fact that TRs constitute ∼6% of our genome and are linked to over 50 human diseases. Here, we introduce the TR-gnomAD (https://wlcb.oit.uci.edu/TRgnomAD), a biobank-scale reference of 0.86 million TRs derived from 338,963 whole-genome sequencing (WGS) samples of diverse ancestries (39.5% non-European samples). TR-gnomAD offers critical insights into ancestry-specific disease prevalence using disparities in TR unit number frequencies among ancestries. Moreover, TR-gnomAD is able to differentiate between common, presumably benign TR expansions, which are prevalent in TR-gnomAD, from those potentially pathogenic TR expansions, which are found more frequently in disease groups than within TR-gnomAD. Together, TR-gnomAD is an invaluable resource for researchers and physicians to interpret TR expansions in individuals with genetic diseases.

With the number of medical school applicants more than doubling during the past 30 years, there has been an increased need to mentor premedical undergraduate students. The Vertically Inte-grated Training Program at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, was created to provide direct mentoring for college students interested in a career as a physician. Online surveys were distributed at the beginning and end of the Fall 2023 semester to gain insight into the success of the program's events from the undergraduate perspective. Data suggest a trend toward positive change in terms of increased confidence of undergraduate students regarding the process of applying to and finding success in medical school. This article reviews the development of the Vertically Integrated Training Program, evaluates the success of the program, and suggests next steps for the organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells are antitumor immune effector cells that can detect metabolic dysregulation in cancer cells through phosphoantigen-induced conformational changes in the butyrophilin (BTN) 2A1/3A1 complex. In order to clinically exploit the anticancer properties of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells, various approaches have been studied including phosphoantigen stimulation, agonistic BTN3A-specific antibodies, adoptive transfer of expanded Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells, and more recently bispecific antibodies. While Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells constitute a sizeable population, typically making up ~1-10% of the total T cell population, lower numbers have been observed with increasing age and in the context of disease. Methods: We evaluated whether bivalent single domain antibodies (VHHs) that link Vδ2-TCR specific VHHs with different affinities could support Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell expansion and could be incorporated in a bispecific engager format when additionally linked to a tumor antigen specific VHH. Results: Bivalent VHHs that link a high and low affinity Vδ2-TCR specific VHH can support Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell expansion. The majority of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells that expanded following exposure to these bivalent VHHs had an effector or central memory phenotype and expressed relatively low levels of PD-1. Bispecific engagers that incorporated the bivalent Vδ2-TCR specific VHH as well as a tumor antigen specific VHH triggered antitumor effector functions and supported expansion of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells in vitro and in an in vivo model in NOG-hIL-15 mice. Conclusion: By enhancing the number of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells available to exert antitumor effector functions, these novel Vδ2-bivalent bispecific T cell engagers may promote the overall efficacy of bispecific Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell engagement, particularly in patients with relatively low levels of Vγ9Vδ2 T-cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Scientiarum Naturalium Universitatis Sunyatseni / Zhongshan Daxue Xuebao is the property of Sun-Yat-Sen University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: Our objective was to assess morbidity trends in Europe and to classify European countries based on population ageing theories: the compression, expansion and dynamic equilibrium of morbidity. Methods: The proportions of healthy life years were calculated for 31 European countries for the period 2005--2019 based on life expectancy values and healthy life years at age 65 years adopted from the Eurostat database. European countries were classified according to morbidity patterns applying the standard deviation distance from the average of relative change method between the selected years. Results: A large degree of variation in terms of life expectancy and healthy life years at age 65 years was determined between 2005 and 2019. While the life expectancy differences between men and women were consistent across all the European countries, the gender gap concerning healthy life years was more diverse. Approximately one-third of the countries fell into the expansion, compression and dynamic equilibrium categories, respectively. Conclusion: Significant variations were identified in healthy life year trends across European countries, which underscores the need for preventive strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) clearance depends on an effective adaptive immune response, especially HBV-specific T cell-mediated cellular immunity; however, it is difficult to produce enough HBV-specific T cells effectively. Results: In this work, we investigated the proportions of stimulated cells, serum, and culture media as the three primary factors to determine the most effective procedure and applied it to HLA-A2 (+) people. In parallel, we also examined the correlation between clinical parameters and HBV-specific immunity. Concerning amplification efficiency, 4 × 105 cells stimulation was superior to 2 × 106 cells stimulation, AIM-V medium outperformed 1640 medium, and fetal bovine serum (FBS) exceeded human AB serum under comparable conditions. As expected, this procedure is also suitable for developing HBV-specific CD8 + T cells in HLA-A2(+) individuals. Expanded HBV-specific T cell responses decreased with treatment time and were negatively correlated with HBV DNA and HBsAg. Furthermore, the number of HBV-specific IFN-γ + SFCs was strongly correlated with the ALT level and negatively correlated with the absolute lymphocyte count and the ALB concentration. Conclusions: We confirm that stimulating 4 × 105 PBMCs in AIM-V medium supplemented with 10% FBS is the best approach and that HBeAg, HBsAg, and ALB are independent predictors of HBV-specific T-cell responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Because of its unique advantages, frontal expansion has become a common tool for Asian nasal reconstruction, but it has the limitations of prolonging the duration and pain in the expansion area. Based on the fact that the denervation effect of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) has been widely used in the reconstruction of superficial organs, we hypothesized that BTX-A would shorten the length of nasal reconstruction sequence and alleviate the discomfort of patients. Methods: A comparative retrospective study was conducted of consecutive patients underwent sequential treatment of nasal reconstruction between June 2010 and July 2012. Data on demographics, BTX-A injection plan and expansion duration were collected and analyzed. Phased pain intensity outcomes were evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS). Photographs were collected during the follow-up period. Results: Thirty patients were enrolled in the study; 15 (50%) with and 15 (50%) without BTX-A pre-injection. Demographic data were homogeneous. The duration of the observation group (BTX-A pretreated) (133.87 ± 13.64 days) was significantly shortened versus the control group (164.27 ± 14.08 days, P<0.001). At the initial stage, no significant difference was found in the VAS scores (P=0.64). At the medium stage, the VAS score of the observation group (2.07 ± 0.80) was significantly lower than the control group (3.00 ± 0.53, P<0.01). At the terminal stage, the VAS score of the observation group (1.93 ± 0.59) was significantly lower than the control group (2.73 ± 0.70) but with a narrower disparity. Conclusion: Pre-injection of BTX-A is effective in shortening the duration of the expansion phase, as well as relieving the pain associated with expansion. Level of Evidence IV: The journal asks authors to assign a level of evidence to each article. For a complete description of Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, see the Table of Contents or the online Instructions for Authors at www.springer.com/00266. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid Alkalization Factor (RALF) is a signaling molecule in plants that plays a crucial role in growth and development, reproductive processes, and responses to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Although RALF peptides have been characterized in Arabidopsis and rice, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of the ZmRALF gene family in maize is still lacking. In this study, we identified 20 RALF genes in the maize genome. Sequence alignment revealed significant structural variation among the ZmRALF family genes. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that RALF proteins from Arabidopsis, rice, and maize can be classified into four distinct clades. Duplication events suggest that the expansion of the RALF gene family in maize primarily relies on whole-genome duplication. ZmRALF genes are widely expressed across various tissues; ZmRALF1/15/18/19 are highly expressed in roots, while ZmRALF6/11/14/16 are predominantly expressed in anthers. RNA-seq and RT-qPCR demonstrated that the expression levels of ZmRALF7, ZmRALF9, and ZmRALF13 were significantly up-regulated and down-regulated in response to PEG and NaCl stresses, respectively. Overall, our study provides new insights into the role of the RALF gene family in abiotic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using in vitro expanded tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) has inconsistent clinical responses. To better understand determinants of therapeutic success, we tracked TIL clonotypes from baseline tumors to ACT products and post-ACT blood and tumor samples in melanoma patients using single-cell RNA and T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing. Patients with clinical responses had baseline tumors enriched in tumor-reactive TILs, and these were more effectively mobilized upon in vitro expansion, yielding products enriched in tumor-specific CD8+ cells that preferentially infiltrated tumors post-ACT. Conversely, lack of clinical responses was associated with tumors devoid of tumor-reactive resident clonotypes and with cell products mostly composed of blood-borne clonotypes that persisted in blood but not in tumors post-ACT. Upon expansion, tumor-specific TILs lost tumor-associated transcriptional signatures, including exhaustion, and responders exhibited an intermediate exhausted effector state after TIL engraftment in the tumor, suggesting functional reinvigoration. Our findings provide insight into the nature and dynamics of tumor-specific clonotypes associated with clinical response to TIL-ACT, with implications for treatment optimization. [Display omitted] • Patients with clinical responses have baseline tumors enriched in tumor-reactive TILs • Tumor-reactive TILs are more effectively mobilized upon in vitro expansion • Non-responders' ACT products are mostly composed of blood-borne clonotypes • TIL-ACT promotes T cell reprogramming, suggesting functional reinvigoration Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using in vitro expanded tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) can be curative in melanoma but has inconsistent clinical responses. Chiffelle, Barras, et al. track TIL clonotypes in melanoma patients through ACT therapy and provide insight into the profiles and dynamics of tumor-specific clonotypes associated with clinical response and features related to non-responsiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-efficient development of shale oil is one of the urgent problems in the petroleum industry. The technology of CO2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) has shown significant effects in developing shale oil. The effects of several glycol ether additives with low molecular weight on the interactions between CO2 and oil were investigated here. The solubility of glycol ether additive in CO2 was firstly characterized. Then, the effects of glycol ether additives on the interfacial tension (IFT) between CO2 and hexadecane and the volume expansion and extraction performance between CO2 and hexadecane under different pressures was investigated. The experimental results show that diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (DEG), triethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEG), and tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TTEG) all have low cloud point pressure and high affinity with CO2. Under the same mass fraction, DGE has the best effect to reduce the IFT between hexadecane and CO2 by more than 30.0%, while an overall reduction of 20.0%e30.0% for TEG and 10.0%e20.0% for TTEG. A new method to measure the extraction and expansion rates has been established and can calculate the swelling factor accurately. After adding 1.0% DEG, the expansion and extraction amounts of CO2 for hexadecane are respectively increased to 1.75 times and 2.25 times. The results show that glycol ether additives assisted CO2 have potential application for EOR. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the optimization of CO2 composite systems for oil displacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The territorial expansion of the USA in the 1840s represented an important phase on its way to becoming a world power. Historians have paid considerable attention to US foreign policy during this period but have largely neglected the significant impact of US expansion on Europe. Whereas they have written a great deal about European reflections on American democracy or slavery, they have largely overlooked the geopolitical response that US expansion provoked among Europeans during that decade. This omission is surprising given the fact that this reaction spread not only in governmental circles but also among the broad public: the policy of the USA and its position in the Americas became an important topic with serious consequences for both sides of the Atlantic. Europeans often criticized the USA for its aggressive policy, and they feared that with the rise of its power it would behave in the same way in all parts of the world. The article's principal aim is to reveal the European response to US territorial expansion and how the repercussions of this response on the USA contributed to the rise of pan-Europeanism, nationalism, imperialism, and colonialism from the mid-nineteenth century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

In 2004, Frieze, Krivelevich and Martin established the emergence of a giant component in random subgraphs of pseudo‐random graphs. We study several typical properties of the giant component, most notably its expansion characteristics. We establish an asymptotic vertex expansion of connected sets in the giant by a factor of Õϵ2$$ \overset{\widetilde }{O}\left({\epsilon}^2\right) $$. From these expansion properties, we derive that the diameter of the giant is whpOϵ(logn)$$ {O}_{\epsilon}\left(\log n\right) $$, and that the mixing time of a lazy random walk on the giant is asymptotically Oϵlog2n$$ {O}_{\epsilon}\left({\log}^2n\right) $$. We also show similar asymptotic expansion properties of (not necessarily connected) linear‐sized subsets in the giant, and the typical existence of a large expander as a subgraph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis), a gastrointestinal nematode parasite of the raccoon (Procyon lotor), is the causative agent of a zoonotic disease that can cause severe neurological sequelae and even fatal cases. The parasite is now established in Europe and, while not present in all raccoon populations, it is currently expanding its range. Understanding the geographic distribution of the roundworm is a necessity for public health. Here, we report the first detections of the raccoon roundworm from Luxembourg. We used genetic techniques to test whether the roundworm originated from a distinct introduction event or entered the country by natural dispersal. We detected two roundworms in a raccoon that was road-killed in Echternach, northeastern Luxembourg. Furthermore, in a wildlife rescue centre, roundworms were detected in the latrine of an enclosure containing seven raccoons. Using different genetic techniques, we showed the Echternach roundworms to originate from the nearest German population, while the rescue centre roundworms were genetically distinct. By genotyping the host from a roundworm DNA extract, we identified a raccoon originating from southwest Luxembourg as the host of at least one roundworm. Roundworms are thus colonising Luxembourg both by natural dispersal and from an introduced population. The (potential) hosts all originated from the local population, suggesting that imported/introduced roundworms have already spread to the local raccoon population. Authorities should act as though the parasite is already widespread in the country, raising awareness among the public and individuals with occupational contact with raccoons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article stresses the importance of expanding the quality of critical care pharmacy education to ensure the provision of critical care to patients. Topics mentioned include state of the pharmacy practice, several reasons for providing inconsistent care to patients and the key steps to optimize critical care pharmacy models.

Background: Cardiovascular progenitor cells (CPCs) derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are considered valuable cell sources for investigating cardiovascular physiology in vitro. Meeting the diverse needs of this application requires the large-scale production of CPCs in an in vitro environment. This study aimed to use an effective culture system utilizing signaling factors for the large-scale expansion of hESC-derived CPCs with the potential to differentiate into functional cardiac lineage cells. Methods and results: Initially, CPCs were generated from hESCs using a 4-day differentiation protocol with a combination of four small molecules (CHIR99021, IWP2, SB-431542, and purmorphamine). These CPCs were then expanded and maintained in a medium containing three factors (bFGF, CHIR, and A83-01), resulting in a > 6,000-fold increase after 8 passages. These CPCs were successfully cryopreserved for an extended period in late passages. The expanded CPCs maintained their gene and protein expression signatures as well as their differentiation capacity through eight passages. Additionally, these CPCs could differentiate into four types of cardiac lineage cells: cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts, demonstrating appropriate functionality. Furthermore, the coculture of these CPC-derived cardiovascular lineage cells in rat tail collagen resulted in cardiac microtissue formation, highlighting the potential of this 3D platform for studying cardiovascular physiology in vitro. Conclusion: In conclusion, expandable hESC-derived CPCs demonstrated the ability to self-renewal and differentiation into functional cardiovascular lineage cells consistently across passages, which may apply as potential cell sources for in vitro cardiovascular studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clonal integration is an important ecological advantage of clonal plants. To ask whether clonal integration can help invasive plants escape space limitations, we tested the hypothesis that it can promote the growth of apical ramets when their connected basal ramets grow in limited space. We conducted a greenhouse experiment on the common perennial herb Hydrocotyle vulgaris. Clonal fragments consisting of pairs of connected ramets grew with basal ramets in three different sizes of pots (small, medium, and large) and apical ramets in large pots, and the connection between ramets was either severed or left intact. Pot size significantly affected the growth of basal ramets such that the biomass, number of leaves and flowers, and stolon length were in general greater in medium pots than in large and small pots when stolons were intact and were greater in medium and large pots than in small pots when stolons were severed. Furthermore, pot size interacted with severance to affect the performance of H. vulgaris. When the basal ramets grew in small pots, the intact stolon resulted in a significant promotion of apical ramet growth, but such positive effect was not found when the basal ramets grew in medium and large pots. Our results suggest that H. vulgaris is able to promote the growth of apical ramets to occupy the surrounding areas through clonal integration when the space where basal ramets grow is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the problem of rapid estimation of capacity attenuation after multiple charge and discharge cycles of LIB(lithium-ion battery), a new method based on the capacity attenuation model of lithium-ion battery is proposed to rapidly estimate its internal capacity attenuation using the external expansion displacement of the battery. Based on the capacity attenuation model of LIB, the radial irreversible expansion model is derived, and the cylindrical LIB Sanyo UR18650E is modeled and solved by COMSOL Multiphysics, and the numerical results are compared with the experimental data, so as to verify the proposed model. Based on the above model, the causes of capacity attenuation and irreversible expansion of battery due to side reactions during the charge-discharge cycle are analyzed. The results show that the change of side reaction rate causes the gradient distribution of the concentration of side reaction products in the negative electrode, and the accumulation of side reaction products causes the expansion displacement of the battery to increase linearly with the cycle. The function formula of the cell capacity attenuation and its radial displacement is obtained by using the side reaction product as a bridge, which provides a new method for the rapid estimation of the capacity attenuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: A genome-wide analysis had identified 642 ABA core component genes from 20 plant species, which were further categorized into three distinct subfamilies. The gene structures and evolutionary relationships of these genes had been characterized. PP2C_1, PP2C_2, and SnRK2_1 had emerged as key players in mediating the ABA signaling transduction pathway, specifically in rice, in response to abiotic stresses. The plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA) is essential for growth, development, and stress response, relying on its core components, pyrabactin resistance, pyrabactin resistance-like, and the regulatory component of ABA receptor (PYR/PYL/RCAR), 2C protein phosphatase (PP2C), sucrose non-fermenting-1-related protein kinase 2 (SnRK2). However, there’s a lack of research on their structural evolution and functional differentiation across plants. Our study analyzed the phylogenetic, gene structure, homology, and duplication evolution of this complex in 20 plant species. We found conserved patterns in copy number and homology across subfamilies. Segmental and tandem duplications drove the evolution of these genes, while whole-genome duplication (WGD) expanded PYR/PYL/RCAR and PP2C subfamilies, enhancing environmental adaptation. In rice and Arabidopsis, the PYR/PYL/RCAR, PP2C, and SnRK2 genes showed distinct tissue-specific expression and responded to various stresses. Notably, PP2C_1 and PP2C_2 interacted with SnRK2_1 and were crucial for ABA signaling in rice. These findings offered new insights into ABA signaling evolution, interactions, and integration in green plants, benefiting future research in agriculture, evolutionary biology, ecology, and environmental science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Copyright of Direito e Práxis is the property of Editora da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (EdUERJ) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article discusses the decision-making strategies of Russian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) when entering foreign markets entry and analyses the factors and conditions that influence the effectiveness of their export activities. It focuses primarily on the analysis of internal and external factors, including sanctions restrictions, access to financial resources, production capacity, marketing skills, digital technologies, and others. Different approaches to factor and condition analysis are discussed, such as the rapid start model, the traditional market entry model, and capture and expansion strategies. It also examines methods for assessing export efficiency, both quantitative and qualitative. The result is a landscape of quality models linking factors and working conditions to the performance of Russian export-oriented SMEs, comprising four primary models, is created.

Rolling contact fatigue and wear failure are the most common forms of failure in heavy rail steel. However, the complicated relationship between fatigue and wear of heavy rail steel remains largely unexplored, with the failure mechanism yet to be fully understood. To investigate the damage and surface microstructure evolution in pearlite rails under rolling contact fatigue and wear interactive loads, a study was conducted on U76CrRE pearlite heavy rail steel, both rolled and heat-treated. The research utilized various methods, including rolling friction and wear testing, laser confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electron backscatter diffraction, to measure and observe the wear rate, surface damage, deformation layers, and crack initiation and propagation in heavy rail steel with and without precast cracks. The study quantitatively analyzed the microstructural evolution and failure behaviors of pearlite rail under wear and fatigue interaction loads. The results show that the deformation layer in rolled heavy rail steel is larger than that in heat-treated specimens, especially when there are no precast cracks or the depth of such cracks is less than the wear layer. However, the wear rate and deformation layer in rolled rails were found to exceed those in heat-treated rails. The ferrite in pearlite near the deformation layer is refined and mixed with similarly refined cementite particles. Initially, ferrite grains exhibit mainly small-angle grain boundaries, but as the distance from the surface layer increases, the proportion of large-angle grain boundaries grows, leading to cracks characterized by larger angles, greater depths, and shorter lengths. Conversely, cracks in heat-treated rails are characterized by smaller angles, shallower depths, and longer lengths, with a more pronounced trend of crack propagation compared to rolled rails. When prefabricated crack depth exceeds the wear deformation layer, these cracks expedite wear mechanisms, encouraging the rapid generation and propagation of fatigue cracks and hastening fatigue failure. The cracks tend to demonstrate larger angles, deeper depths, and longer lengths, indicating that both rolling and heat-treated pearlite heavy rails are mainly subject to fatigue failure, with crack propagation being more evident in rolled rails than in heat-treated ones. Furthermore, when rails are matched with wheel steel of higher hardness, the crack angle, depth and length of rails become more pronounced than those with lower hardness. Moreover, the duration of the rail wear mechanism is prolonged.

The study aimed to highlight the peculiarities of the formation and use of strategies for entering the foreign market by modern business entities, using enterprises in the agrarian sector of the economy as an example. The methods of economic and statistical analysis, including the Wilcoxon statistical method for comparing trends, as well as the scoring method, were used to process the data. The current study identified the peculiarities of the development of the agricultural sector in the European Union countries and Ukraine in particular, focusing on the main challenges and opportunities faced by agricultural enterprises in the context of globalisation. It was found that the development of the agricultural sector depends on access to resources, technological progress and appropriate state support. The importance of introducing innovations and attracting investments to increase the competitiveness of agricultural enterprises was emphasised. The main motives and strategies for their entry into foreign markets were outlined, including: product differentiation strategy, pricing strategy (cost leadership strategy), innovation strategy, expansion into new markets, branding strategy, sustainable development strategy, and localization strategy. The article analysed the agricultural sector of Ukraine and provides an overview of strategies for entering foreign markets of 15 Ukrainian agricultural enterprises, drawing attention to existing problems in infrastructure and logistics. The author substantiated the areas of improvement, including investments in modernization, development of logistics networks and improvement of product quality in accordance with international standards, which will help to increase their competitiveness in the global market. The obtained results emphasise the importance of an integrated approach, including product differentiation, price competition and innovation strategies to ensure the competitiveness of agricultural enterprises in the global market, as well as the need to adapt strategies to the specifics of local markets and sustainable development trends

Abstract Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) clearance depends on an effective adaptive immune response, especially HBV-specific T cell-mediated cellular immunity; however, it is difficult to produce enough HBV-specific T cells effectively. Results In this work, we investigated the proportions of stimulated cells, serum, and culture media as the three primary factors to determine the most effective procedure and applied it to HLA-A2 (+) people. In parallel, we also examined the correlation between clinical parameters and HBV-specific immunity. Concerning amplification efficiency, 4 × 105 cells stimulation was superior to 2 × 106 cells stimulation, AIM-V medium outperformed 1640 medium, and fetal bovine serum (FBS) exceeded human AB serum under comparable conditions. As expected, this procedure is also suitable for developing HBV-specific CD8 + T cells in HLA-A2(+) individuals. Expanded HBV-specific T cell responses decreased with treatment time and were negatively correlated with HBV DNA and HBsAg. Furthermore, the number of HBV-specific IFN-γ + SFCs was strongly correlated with the ALT level and negatively correlated with the absolute lymphocyte count and the ALB concentration. Conclusions We confirm that stimulating 4 × 105 PBMCs in AIM-V medium supplemented with 10% FBS is the best approach and that HBeAg, HBsAg, and ALB are independent predictors of HBV-specific T-cell responses.

The article presents the results of studies of profile joints of mechanisms and machines for rigidity and strength. The device is based on the use of fixed and movable profile connections designed to transmit torque. Profile joints with a guaranteed gap are considered, made on the basis of an equiaxial contour of the P3, P5 type and a curved contour of the PC4 type, which have received the most widespread introduction in the nodes of metal-cutting machines and other machines manufactured in Russia, as well as Hungary, Germany and the DPRK. Using a well-known technique designed to assess the stress-strain state (VAT) of the parts of profile joints, calculations are performed according to the criteria of operability for strength and stiffness of hubs (bushings) with different wall thicknesses. The analysis of the results of the calculation of strength and stiffness is carried out using the example of the P3 profile. When stretching the hub from the action of spacer forces, the geometric shape, the nominal size of the covered part, the wall thickness of the covering part, as well as the magnitude of the external load transmitted by the connection in static are taken into account. The permissible values of the thickness of the walls of the hub (bushings) of the joint are determined to ensure the rigidity of the hub under tension from the action of external loads. As a result of the research, the influence of the thickness of the hub walls for the studied shapes of the joint parts on the values of the transmitted torque is established. For example, a change in the thickness of the hub wall from 15 to 3 mm for a normal range of shaft mounting diameters causes the sleeve to stretch radially up to 50 microns in the range of transmitted torques from 5 to 600 Nm.

Abstract Background Cardiovascular progenitor cells (CPCs) derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are considered valuable cell sources for investigating cardiovascular physiology in vitro. Meeting the diverse needs of this application requires the large-scale production of CPCs in an in vitro environment. This study aimed to use an effective culture system utilizing signaling factors for the large-scale expansion of hESC-derived CPCs with the potential to differentiate into functional cardiac lineage cells. Methods and results Initially, CPCs were generated from hESCs using a 4-day differentiation protocol with a combination of four small molecules (CHIR99021, IWP2, SB-431542, and purmorphamine). These CPCs were then expanded and maintained in a medium containing three factors (bFGF, CHIR, and A83-01), resulting in a > 6,000-fold increase after 8 passages. These CPCs were successfully cryopreserved for an extended period in late passages. The expanded CPCs maintained their gene and protein expression signatures as well as their differentiation capacity through eight passages. Additionally, these CPCs could differentiate into four types of cardiac lineage cells: cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts, demonstrating appropriate functionality. Furthermore, the coculture of these CPC-derived cardiovascular lineage cells in rat tail collagen resulted in cardiac microtissue formation, highlighting the potential of this 3D platform for studying cardiovascular physiology in vitro. Conclusion In conclusion, expandable hESC-derived CPCs demonstrated the ability to self-renewal and differentiation into functional cardiovascular lineage cells consistently across passages, which may apply as potential cell sources for in vitro cardiovascular studies. Graphical Abstract

The article deals with topics in the field of regional development, or more specifically, issues related to the expansion of the retail network and how this positively affects a region. Several ways in which this can be done are shown, with one possible approach to regional development being through the rational management, development, and optimization of the retail network, which can have a highly positive and beneficial effect on regional development. Modern tools for locating retail outlets and their impact on individual territories are discussed. In this direction, examples are taken from large retail chains such as Bila, Kaufland, Lidl, etc., showing what added value they have for the regional development of the territories in Bulgaria.

Abstract Background Peri-urbanization, the expansion of large metropolitan centers into adjacent peri-urban regions, is a growing concern due to land scarcity and escalating housing costs. These zones, a blend of rural and urban features, blur the line between urban and rural areas, creating new landscapes. This study examines historical, present, and potential growth trends in the peri-urban area surrounding Durgapur Municipal Corporation (DMC). Analytical techniques and spatial metrics are used to track development intensity changes over time, including built-up density, Shannon’s entropy, Landscape expansion index, Average Weighted Mean Expansion Index, Annual Built-Up Expansion Rate, Built-Up Expansion Intensity Index, and Built-Up Expansion Difference Index. Landscape indices like Patch Density, Edge Density, Landscape Shape Index, Largest Patch Index, Ratio of Open Space, and Area Weighted Mean Patch Fractal are used to understand fragmentation, connectivity, and spatial relationships. The Logistic Regression Model (LRM) is used to identify influencing factors and CA-Markov modeling for future built-up areas. Results Between 1991 and 2001, built-up area in the region increased significantly, primarily due to urban development near industrial zones, roadways, and mining areas. The growth was primarily concentrated in the western sector and near National Highway-2 (NH-2). Urban sprawl was a continuous trend, with the highest built-up density in the South-South-East (SSE) direction from 1991 to 2011. Additionally, a key determinant of built-up development was the distance to the city core. By 2031, the built-up area is expected to concentrate in the western and southeast regions, reaching 177.90 km2. Conclusions This expansion is attributed to urban development near industrial zones, roadways, mining areas, and other infrastructure. The study identifies distance to the city center as a significant influencing factor for built-up development. The results emphasize the need for inclusive urban planning methods prioritizing sustainable development principles and prudent resource management for future growth and efficient management in the DMC’s peri-urban area.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effects of different attachment configurations with and without buccal root torque on expansion movements achieved with aligners through finite element analysis (FEA). Methods FEA modelling was done with 0.25 mm buccal expansion force application to the maxillary molars with different attachment configurations: Eight models were tested (1) no attachment (NA), (2) horizontal attachment (HA), (3) gingivally beveled horizontal attachment (GHA), and (4) occlusally beveled horizontal attachment (OHA), as well as models with 6obuccal root torque, (5) no attachment (TNA), (6) horizontal attachment (THA), (7) gingivally beveled horizontal attachment (TGHA), and (8) occlusally beveled horizontal attachment (TOHA). Results The first and second molars exhibited buccal tipping in all models. The highest amount of buccal tipping for the molars was observed in the NA (6CMB, 0.232 mm; 6CMP, 0.246 mm; 7CMB, 0.281 mm; 7CMP, 0.312 mm) and GHA (6CMB, 0.230; 6CMP, 0.245; 7CMB, 0.279 mm; 7CMP, 0.311 mm) models, respectively, while the least tipping was observed in the TOHA model (6CMB, 0.155 mm; 6CMP, 0.168 mm; 7CMB, 0.216 mm; 7CMP, 0.240 mm). In all groups, the buccal tipping of the second molars was higher than that of the first molars. Conclusion This FEA study showed that expansion with aligners tip maxillary molars buccally and the use of occlusally beveled attachments and addition of buccal root torque reduces uncontrolled buccal tipping.

Abstract Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is a rich source of beneficial stem and progenitor cells with known angiogenic, neuroregenerative and immune-modulatory properties. Preclinical studies have highlighted the benefit of UCB for a broad range of conditions including haematological conditions, metabolic disorders and neurological conditions, however clinical translation of UCB therapies is lacking. One barrier for clinical translation is inadequate cell numbers in some samples meaning that often a therapeutic dose cannot be achieved. This is particularly important when treating adults or when administering repeat doses of cells. To overcome this, UCB cell expansion is being explored to increase cell numbers. The current focus of UCB cell expansion is CD34+ haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) for which the main application is treatment of haematological conditions. Currently there are 36 registered clinical trials that are examining the efficacy of expanded UCB cells with 31 of these being for haematological malignancies. Early data from these trials suggest that expanded UCB cells are a safe and feasible treatment option and show greater engraftment potential than unexpanded UCB. Outside of the haematology research space, expanded UCB has been trialled as a therapy in only two preclinical studies, one for spinal cord injury and one for hind limb ischemia. Proteomic analysis of expanded UCB cells in these studies showed that the cells were neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and angiogenic. These findings are also supported by in vitro studies where expanded UCB CD34+ cells showed increased gene expression of neurotrophic and angiogenic factors compared to unexpanded CD34+ cells. Preclinical evidence demonstrates that unexpanded CD34+ cells are a promising therapy for neurological conditions where they have been shown to improve multiple indices of injury in rodent models of stroke, Parkinson’s disease and neonatal hypoxic ischemic brain injury. This review will highlight the current application of expanded UCB derived HSCs in transplant medicine, and also explore the potential use of expanded HSCs as a therapy for neurological conditions. It is proposed that expanded UCB derived CD34+ cells are an appropriate cellular therapy for a range of neurological conditions in children and adults.

We present 17 new records of Suncus etruscus in Bulgaria, and the first finding of the species north of Stara Planina Mountains. The species is recorded in the diet of three owl species - Tyto alba, Asio otus and Athene noctua, and one bird of prey - Aquila heliaca. The bulk of records originated from T. alba, in the rest raptor species it is taken randomly and consists negligible part of their diet. Additionally, five dead shrews were used, which provided hard evidence for the presence of S. etruscus in north Bulgaria. All data on the species distribution in Bulgaria are summarised and the roads for its invasion are discussed. Climate change is considered as an expansion trigger for spreading of the Etruscan shrew.

In a world increasingly focused on inclusivity, addressing the challenges faced by gender nonconforming and transgender individuals is crucial. Identity documents are meant to represent us, but the current approaches of administrative systems in registering gender do not reflect the existing diverse identities. This not only has policy and legal implications but it also clashes with modern conceptions of human rights and inherent dignity. This paper explores approaches to more inclusive gender identification practices for IDs. Drawing on the framework provided by Wipfler (2016), it examines three strategies: 1) definitional expansion; 2) categorical expansion, and 3) abolition. The definitional expansion approach would expand the understanding of what a man and a woman are, therefore encompassing a wider population. While it would offer more legal protection and affirmation for transgender or gender non-conforming individuals, it reinforces the presumption that registering gender is a necessity and it would still marginalize non-binary people. Categorical expansion refers to adding other sex categories beyond the traditional binary. Some societies have already started implementing this step. Although advantageous, it continues to expect individuals to conform to pre-determined categories that they may not identify with. Abolition advocates for the complete elimination of sex categories in identification, aiming to dismantle discriminatory practices. While this would promote inclusivity, a major drawback is the inability to address existing sexbased discrimination. Thus, this is a promising approach in the long-term, but idealistic in the short-term due to current societal dynamics. A more pragmatic approach combines categorical and definitional expansions of gender.

Grassland conservation planning often focuses on high‐risk landscapes, but many grassland conversion models are not designed to optimize conservation planning because they lack multidimensional risk assessments and are misaligned with ecological and conservation delivery scales. To aid grassland conservation planning, we developed landscape‐scale models at relevant scales that predict future (2021–2031) total and proportional loss of unprotected grassland to cropland or development. We developed models for 20 ecoregions across the contiguous United States by relating past conversion (2011–2021) to a suite of covariates in random forest regression models and applying the models to contemporary covariates to predict future loss. Overall, grassland loss models performed well, and explanatory power varied spatially across ecoregions (total loss model: weighted group mean R2 = 0.89 [range: 0.83–0.96], root mean squared error [RMSE] = 9.29 ha [range: 2.83–22.77 ha]; proportional loss model: weighted group mean R2 = 0.74 [range: 0.64–0.87], RMSE = 0.03 [range: 0.02–0.06]). Amount of crop in the landscape and distance to cities, ethanol plants, and concentrated animal feeding operations had high variable importance in both models. Total grass loss was greater when there were moderate amounts of grass, crop, or development (∼50%) in the landscape. Proportional grass loss was greater when there was less grass (∼<30%) and more crop or development (∼>50%). Some variables had a large effect on only a subset of ecoregions, for example, grass loss was greater when ∼>70% of the landscape was enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program. Our methods provide a simple and flexible approach for developing risk layers well suited for conservation that can be extended globally. Our conversion models can support conservation planning by enabling prioritization as a function of risk that can be further optimized by incorporating biological value and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Materials with high-temperature dimensional stability and resistance to radiation damage are receiving increasing attention in advanced nuclear energy systems. In this research, (Sm 0.2 Eu 0.2 Gd 0.2 Dy 0.2 A 0.2) 2 W 3 O 12 -type (A = Y, Tm,Ho) high-entropy ceramics is presented. The coefficients of thermal expansion of (Sm 0.2 Eu 0.2 Gd 0.2 Dy 0.2 Y 0.2) 2 W 3 O 12 (HE-RE 2 W 3 O 12) is 7.21 × 10−6 K−1 at 300–1100K, which is the lowest among the three synthesized high-entropy ceramics and indicates good dimensional stability at high temperatures. After irradiation with Kr+ fluence of 4.58 × 1016 ions/cm2 at 400 °C, both HE-RE 2 W 3 O 12 and Gd 2 W 3 O 12 maintained crystalline, but the lattice volume expansion rate of HE-RE 2 W 3 O 12 (0.71 %) is much lower than that of Gd 2 W 3 O 12 (1.49 %). Additionally, in the post-irradiated HE-RE 2 W 3 O 12 , the Raman spectra vibration peak remained unchanged and no radiation-induced segregation was observed. Nanoindentation tests displayed that the degradation of hardness and elastic modulus in HE-RE 2 W 3 O 12 is rarely degrade. Overall, these results provide new insights for research on advanced nuclear materials in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of different attachment configurations with and without buccal root torque on expansion movements achieved with aligners through finite element analysis (FEA). Methods: FEA modelling was done with 0.25 mm buccal expansion force application to the maxillary molars with different attachment configurations: Eight models were tested (1) no attachment (NA), (2) horizontal attachment (HA), (3) gingivally beveled horizontal attachment (GHA), and (4) occlusally beveled horizontal attachment (OHA), as well as models with 6obuccal root torque, (5) no attachment (TNA), (6) horizontal attachment (THA), (7) gingivally beveled horizontal attachment (TGHA), and (8) occlusally beveled horizontal attachment (TOHA). Results: The first and second molars exhibited buccal tipping in all models. The highest amount of buccal tipping for the molars was observed in the NA (6CMB, 0.232 mm; 6CMP, 0.246 mm; 7CMB, 0.281 mm; 7CMP, 0.312 mm) and GHA (6CMB, 0.230; 6CMP, 0.245; 7CMB, 0.279 mm; 7CMP, 0.311 mm) models, respectively, while the least tipping was observed in the TOHA model (6CMB, 0.155 mm; 6CMP, 0.168 mm; 7CMB, 0.216 mm; 7CMP, 0.240 mm). In all groups, the buccal tipping of the second molars was higher than that of the first molars. Conclusion: This FEA study showed that expansion with aligners tip maxillary molars buccally and the use of occlusally beveled attachments and addition of buccal root torque reduces uncontrolled buccal tipping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peri-urbanization, the expansion of large metropolitan centers into adjacent peri-urban regions, is a growing concern due to land scarcity and escalating housing costs. These zones, a blend of rural and urban features, blur the line between urban and rural areas, creating new landscapes. This study examines historical, present, and potential growth trends in the peri-urban area surrounding Durgapur Municipal Corporation (DMC). Analytical techniques and spatial metrics are used to track development intensity changes over time, including built-up density, Shannon's entropy, Landscape expansion index, Average Weighted Mean Expansion Index, Annual Built-Up Expansion Rate, Built-Up Expansion Intensity Index, and Built-Up Expansion Difference Index. Landscape indices like Patch Density, Edge Density, Landscape Shape Index, Largest Patch Index, Ratio of Open Space, and Area Weighted Mean Patch Fractal are used to understand fragmentation, connectivity, and spatial relationships. The Logistic Regression Model (LRM) is used to identify influencing factors and CA-Markov modeling for future built-up areas. Results: Between 1991 and 2001, built-up area in the region increased significantly, primarily due to urban development near industrial zones, roadways, and mining areas. The growth was primarily concentrated in the western sector and near National Highway-2 (NH-2). Urban sprawl was a continuous trend, with the highest built-up density in the South-South-East (SSE) direction from 1991 to 2011. Additionally, a key determinant of built-up development was the distance to the city core. By 2031, the built-up area is expected to concentrate in the western and southeast regions, reaching 177.90 km2. Conclusions: This expansion is attributed to urban development near industrial zones, roadways, mining areas, and other infrastructure. The study identifies distance to the city center as a significant influencing factor for built-up development. The results emphasize the need for inclusive urban planning methods prioritizing sustainable development principles and prudent resource management for future growth and efficient management in the DMC's peri-urban area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of large amounts of functional NK and CAR-NK cells represents one of the bottlenecks for NK-based immunotherapy. In this study, we developed a largescale, reliable, and practicable NK and CAR-NK production using G-Rex 100M bioreactors, which depend on a gas-permeable membrane technology. This system holds large volumes of medium with enhanced oxygen delivery, creating conditions conducive to large-scale PBNK and CAR-NK expansions for cancer therapy. Both peripheral blood NK cells (PBNKs) and CAR-NKs expanded in these bioreactors retained similar immunophenotypes and exhibited comparable cytotoxicity towards hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells akin to that of NK and CAR-NK cells expanded in G-Rex 6 well bioreactors. Importantly, cryopreservation minimally affected the cytotoxicity of NK cells expanded using the G-Rex 100M bioreactors, establishing a robust platform for scaled-up NK and CAR-NK cell production. This method is promising for the development of “off-the-shelf” NK cells, supporting the future clinical implementation of NK cell immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measured data of internal movement and deformation of the overburden are insufficient, the prediction is difficult and the reliability is low. A method was constructed based on geometric similarity characteristics to predict the internal movement and deformation of the overlying rock using measured surface subsidence data. This method considered the expansion and compression resulting from the movement and deformation of the overlying rock after coal mining. The research shows that when predicting the internal movement and deformation of the overlying rock near the surface. the expansion and compression of the rock can be disregarded. However, when predicting the internal movement and deformation near the mining coal seam, the expansion and compression need to be considered. Near the mining boundary, the expansion and compression can be disregarded, but in the center of the mining area, they need to be considered. The research results contribute to the green and safe mining of coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali‐aggregate reaction (AAR) is a detrimental reaction between alkalis originating from cement and aggregates that contain reactive minerals. This reaction produces an expansive gel in hardened concrete that may cause internal stresses and cracking, after which it would be critical to evaluate the safety of the AAR‐affected structure. This paper presents a calculation framework primarily using the finite element method to simulate the structural behavior of reinforced concrete members affected by AAR. Numerical subroutines are used to calculate the anisotropic distribution of AAR‐induced expansions at each integration point, considering the stress field at each time step, whereas changes in the properties of concrete due to the progression of AAR are also considered. The modeling approach is successfully validated based on experimental data from several studies on AAR‐affected members that were reinforced in 1, 2, and 3 orthogonal directions in terms of load–deflection behavior and damage patterns. The mechanical properties of concrete were found to negligibly affect the distribution of AAR expansions. A better correlation was observed with experimental data if compressive and tensile strengths of concrete are assumed unchanged and only the modulus of elasticity of concrete is reduced as a function of AAR‐induced expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on rainfall is critically important due to its significant impact on climate change and natural disasters in Indonesia. Various factors influence rainfall variability. Consequently, when examining spatial aspects, it is likely that spatial dependency exists not only in the response variable but also in the exogenous variables. Hence, a model that accounts for spatial dependencies between these variables is required. The integration of the Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) with Casetti's expansion approach can be utilized to predict spatial patterns of rainfall influenced by exogenous variables. By incorporating spatial effects and relevant independent variables, this model can provide more precise estimates of rainfall distribution across different regions. This modeling technique is particularly effective for accurate rainfall prediction, considering exogenous factors such as air temperature, humidity, solar irradiation, and surface pressure. The SDM with Casetti's expansion approach was employed to predict rainfall patterns in the Java Island region, utilizing data from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources (NASA POWER) big data website. The application of this model in the context of rainfall prediction highlights its importance in enhancing the understanding of weather dynamics and aiding disaster risk mitigation in Java Island, a highly populated region characterized by a Monsoon rainfall pattern. The rainfall prediction follows a Knowledge Discovery in Databases (KDD) methodology. The results of this study are expected to be valuable to relevant agencies, such as the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), and agribusiness companies, improving agricultural planning and planting seasons. Additionally, the general public can benefit from more accurate climate information, particularly regarding rainfall. The computational framework is developed within an RShiny web application, and the performance of the proposed technique is measured by the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), achieving a very accurate prediction rate of 2.78%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: We identify 33 areas where assurance services other than financial statement audits are currently offered or are emerging and conduct an extensive web search to document the contextual features of the services in each area. Using a framework for the expansion of assurance services, we analyze these features by asking: (1) Does the subject matter relate to financial information or controls? (2) Are criteria available to evaluate the subject matter? The answers allow us to categorize each area based on whether it represents an expansion opportunity to a traditional, but hypothetical, CPA firm. We then compare our expectations against observed areas where real-world firms have a presence. Finally, we report on two roundtables with senior assurance leaders to validate our findings and enhance our understanding of what is needed for each area to become, or continue to be, well-positioned for expansion by CPA firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For biographer John Baxter, J. G. Ballard's The Drowned World (1962) echoes the work of neurophysiologist John C. Lilly, who, from 1954 onwards, conducted a series of sensory deprivation experiments with floatation tanks. Lilly's work paralleled that of psychologist Donald O. Hebb. Hebb used soundproof isolation chambers to simulate the withdrawal of sensory stimuli from test subjects. James Kennaway's novel The Mind Benders (1963) drew on these experiments whilst Paddy Chayefsky's Altered States (1978) took the visionary aspects of Lilly's work as its basis. In the case of Ballard, language redolent of this field of post-war experimentation appears across his career, in The Drowned World and short stories such as 'Manhole 69' (1957), 'The Gioconda of the Twilight Noon' (1964), and 'The Enormous Space' (1989). In each case the lack of sensory stimuli results in experiences of spatial, psychological, and temporal expansion. After unpacking the link between Ballard's texts and the surrounding context of sensory deprivation, this article marks out his thematic difference from the likes of Lilly, Kennaway, and Chayefsky et al. In examining this representation of men in the process of disappearing, this article uses the literature of sensory deprivation to re-focus Ballard's post-literary status back to the functionality of his writing. Further, it argues for a posthuman understanding of Ballard's predilection for terminal identities framed as transformative states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blowing agent-assisted extrusion cooking is a novel processing technique that can alter the expansion of extruded snacks and, thus, enhance their physical appeal, such as texture. However, to this day, this technique has only been studied for ingredients with limited protein contents (<30%). In this study, protein-enriched snacks were extruded using nitrogen gas as a blowing agent at a wide protein range (0–50%) to better explore the potential of this technique in manufacturing high-protein snacks. The results showed that, with nitrogen gas injection, extrudate radial expansion was significantly (p < 0.05) improved at 10% and 40% protein, while extrudate density was significantly reduced at 30% and 50% protein. Nitrogen gas-injected extrudates, especially at 50% protein, exhibited improvements in texture, including a reduction in hardness and an increase in crispness. Collectively, this study showed the promising potential of nitrogen gas-assisted extrusion in improving the physical appeal of innovative healthy snacks at a high protein level (i.e., 50%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests, characterized by their rapid growth and clonal reproduction, have emerged as a significant threat to adjacent forest ecosystems. However, in China, the area, speed, and spatial distribution of moso bamboo forest expansion into other types of forests remains poorly understood. In this study, we present a case analysis of moso bamboo forests, employing a decade-long dataset from the forest second type inventory (FSTI) that utilizes transition matrices, neighboring ratio analysis, and spatio-temporal autocorrelation. This comprehensive investigation focuses on the spatio-temporal expansion of moso bamboo forests into diverse types of forests, with the aim of providing science-based recommendations for effective moso bamboo forest management. Our findings reveal that areas of moso bamboo forests have been expanding at an approximate annual rate of 2%, with an average expansion speed (including moso bamboo forests manually planted) of approximately 8 m per year. The length of moso bamboo–woodland ecotones (BWEs) increases as a consequence of moso bamboo forest expansion, indicating a sustained escalation in the extent of this expansion. Coniferous forests and evergreen broad-leaved forests are mainly invaded, accounting for around 58% of all invaded forests. The rate of moso bamboo forest expansion into different types of forests varies, although the rate remains fairly consistent within the same forest type. Moso bamboo forest expansion exhibits significant spatial heterogeneity. Furthermore, the area of moso bamboo forest intrusion into various types of forests in different provinces is notably influenced by the presence of moso bamboo forests and the proportional distribution of different forest types. The factors contributing to bamboo forest expansion encompass stand characteristics, soil attributes, light intensity, moso bamboo afforestation, forestry practices, and human disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato red spider mite Tetranychus evansi Baker and Pritchard (Acari: Tetranychidae) is a phytophagous pest that causes severe damage to Solanaceous plants worldwide, resulting in significant economic losses. In this study, the maximum entropy model was used to predict the potential current (1970–2000) and future (2021–2060) global distribution of the species based on its past occurrence records and high-resolution environmental data. The results showed that the mean values of the area under the curve were all >0.96, indicating that the model performed well. The three bioclimatic variables with the highest contributions were the coldest quarterly mean temperature (bio11), coldest monthly minimum temperature (bio6), and annual precipitation (bio12). A wide range of suitable areas was found across continents except Antarctica, both currently and in the future, with a much larger distribution area in South America, Africa, and Oceania (Australia), dominated by moderately and low suitable areas. A comparison of current and future suitable areas reveals a general trend of north expansion and increasing expansion over time. This study provides information for the prevention and management of this pest mite in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is a rich source of beneficial stem and progenitor cells with known angiogenic, neuroregenerative and immune-modulatory properties. Preclinical studies have highlighted the benefit of UCB for a broad range of conditions including haematological conditions, metabolic disorders and neurological conditions, however clinical translation of UCB therapies is lacking. One barrier for clinical translation is inadequate cell numbers in some samples meaning that often a therapeutic dose cannot be achieved. This is particularly important when treating adults or when administering repeat doses of cells. To overcome this, UCB cell expansion is being explored to increase cell numbers. The current focus of UCB cell expansion is CD34+ haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) for which the main application is treatment of haematological conditions. Currently there are 36 registered clinical trials that are examining the efficacy of expanded UCB cells with 31 of these being for haematological malignancies. Early data from these trials suggest that expanded UCB cells are a safe and feasible treatment option and show greater engraftment potential than unexpanded UCB. Outside of the haematology research space, expanded UCB has been trialled as a therapy in only two preclinical studies, one for spinal cord injury and one for hind limb ischemia. Proteomic analysis of expanded UCB cells in these studies showed that the cells were neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and angiogenic. These findings are also supported by in vitro studies where expanded UCB CD34+ cells showed increased gene expression of neurotrophic and angiogenic factors compared to unexpanded CD34+ cells. Preclinical evidence demonstrates that unexpanded CD34+ cells are a promising therapy for neurological conditions where they have been shown to improve multiple indices of injury in rodent models of stroke, Parkinson's disease and neonatal hypoxic ischemic brain injury. This review will highlight the current application of expanded UCB derived HSCs in transplant medicine, and also explore the potential use of expanded HSCs as a therapy for neurological conditions. It is proposed that expanded UCB derived CD34+ cells are an appropriate cellular therapy for a range of neurological conditions in children and adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]