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Introduction: Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, poses a significant threat to a range of crops worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of entomopathogenic fungi (Alternaria murispora and Alternaria destruens) and bacteria (Streptomyces bellus-E23-2) against adult females of P. solenopsis under laboratory (26 ± 2°C) and greenhouse conditions. Methods: Laboratory trials tested A. murispora, A. destruens (104-1010 conidia mL-1), and S. bellus E23-2 (104-1010 cfu mL-1), alone and in combination, recording mortality rates and LC50 values. Greenhouse trials tested the best lab treatments on infested potato plants, monitoring pest density and plant quality. Results and discussion: In laboratory trials, A. murispora at 1010 conidia mL-1 was the most effective, achieved 79.7% mortality (LC50 = 1.338 x 108 conidia mL-1 after 14 days). Combination treatments significantly enhanced efficacy, with A. murispora + S. bellus E23-2 (1010 conidia mL-1 + 1010 cfu mL-1) reaching 85.3% mortality. In greenhouse trials, the combination treatments notably reduced P. solenopsis densities and increased the number of infected mealybugs, with A. murispora + S. bellus E23-2 being the most effective. These treatments did not harm plant quality, unlike imidacloprid, which reduced visual quality despite its high efficacy. Alternaria murispora and S. bellus E23-2 effectively control P. solenopsis, providing a sustainable, plant-safe alternative to chemical insecticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) is a prevalent neurological condition that can lead to persistent cognitive impairments, disrupting memory, attention, and executive function. In this study, we explore the mechanisms of cognitive decline in mTBI through the lens of Markov blankets--a theoretical framework that delineates the statistical boundary between the brain's internal and external states. By simulating the impact of mTBI on sensory, active, internal, and external states, we demonstrate how disruptions to the Markov blanket structure contribute to impairments in predictive coding and cognitive processing. Our simulation introduces noise and connectivity reductions that mimic the neurometabolic and synaptic changes following mTBI, revealing delayed sensory processing, impaired motor function, and cognitive instability. These findings highlight the importance of Markov blankets in maintaining cognitive integrity and offer novel insights into the pathophysiology of post-concussion syndrome. Understanding how mTBI disrupts the brain's functional architecture through Markov blanket disturbances may inform more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alarming rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has created a significant public health challenge, necessitating the discovery of new therapeutic agents to combat infectious diseases and oxidative stress-related disorders. The Lentzea flaviverrucosa strain E25-2, isolated from Moroccan forest soil, represents a potential avenue for such research. This study aimed to identify the isolate E25-2, obtained from soil in a cold Moroccan ecosystem, and further investigate its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed the strain's classification within the Lentzea genus, with a sequence closely resembling that of Lentzea flaviverrucosa AS4.0578 (96.10% similarity). Antimicrobial activity in solid media showed moderate to strong activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus cereus strain ATCC 14579, Escherichia coli strain ATCC 25922, Candida albicans strain ATCC 60193 and 4 phytopathogenic fungi. In addition, ethyl acetate extract of this isolate demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against 7 clinically multi-drug resistant bacteria. Furthermore, it demonstrated antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radicals, as well as a significant increase in ferric reducing antioxidant power. A significant positive correlation was observed between antioxidant activities and total content of phenolic compounds (p < 0.0001), along with flavonoids (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed the presence of amines, hydroxyl groups, pyridopyrazinone rings, esters and pyrrolopyrazines. The Lentzea genus could offer promising prospects in the fight against antibiotic resistance and in the prevention against oxidative stress related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges in managing neurological conditions, particularly among athletes. This paper explores the intersection of post-COVID-19 neurological syndrome (PCNS/PASC) and post-concussion syndrome (PCS), focusing on their implications in sports medicine. Our analysis covers the symptomatology, pathophysiology, and management strategies for PCNS/PASC and PPCS, with special attention paid to the unique challenges faced by athletes recovering from these conditions, including the risk of symptom exacerbation and prolonged recovery. Key findings reveal that both PCNS/PASC and PPCS present with overlapping symptoms such as cognitive difficulties, exercise intolerance, and mental health issues, but differ in specific manifestations like anosmia and ageusia, unique to COVID-19. Pathophysiological analysis reveals similarities in blood–brain barrier disruption (BBB) but differences in the extent of immune activation. Management strategies emphasize a gradual increase in physical activity, close symptom monitoring, and psychological support, with a tailored approach for athletes. Specific interventions include progressive aerobic exercises, resistance training, and cognitive rehabilitation. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of integrating neurology, psychiatry, physical therapy, and sports medicine to develop comprehensive care strategies. Our findings underscore the dual challenge of COVID-19 and concussion in athletes, necessitating a nuanced, interdisciplinary approach to effective management. Future research should focus on the long-term neurological effects of both conditions and optimizing treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for advancing the management of athletes affected by these overlapping conditions and ensuring their safe return to sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics play a crucial role in preserving and improving public health, saving millions of lives every year. However, their effectiveness is currently under threat due to the ability of bacteria to adapt and develop resistance to these treatments. Therefore, this study was carried out on two soil samples collected in two areas of Arba Aounate, Sidi Bennour province, Morocco, to identify natural antibiotic-producing Actinobacteria capable of combating multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. A primary screening revealed that of the 50 isolates, 16 exhibited antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27,853, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25,923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25,922, and Candida albicans ATTC 60193. A secondary screening showed that of the 16 isolates, only EIZ1 and EIZ2 isolates displayed outstanding antimicrobial and antifungal activity against 6 MDR bacteria, including Escherichia coli 19L2418, Listeria monocytogenes, Proteus sp. 19K1313, Klebsiella pneumoniae 19K 929, Proteus vulgaris 16C1737, and Klebsiella pneumoniae 20B1572. These two isolates were also characterized culturally, morphologically, physiologically, and biochemically. Afterward, the amplification of 16S rRNA revealed that isolate EIZ2 was 99.06% strongly related to the genus Streptomyces. Furthermore, this extract exhibits strong antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS free radicals and elevated ferric-reducing antioxidant power. A significant (p < 0.0001) positive correlation was observed between antioxidant activities and total phenolic and flavonoid contents. A GC–MS analysis of the ethyl acetate extract revealed the presence of 10 compounds, mainly diethyl phthalate (97%) and benzeneacetic acid (94%). This research demonstrates that Streptomyces sp. strain EIZ2 represents a potential source of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds. These compounds could offer considerable potential as therapeutic agents, paving the way for future developments in medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional neurological disorder (FND), formerly called conversion disorder, is a condition characterized by neurological symptoms that lack an identifiable organic purpose. These signs, which can consist of motor, sensory, or cognitive disturbances, are not deliberately produced and often vary in severity. Its diagnosis is predicated on clinical evaluation and the exclusion of other medical or psychiatric situations. Its treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary technique addressing each of the neurological symptoms and underlying psychological factors via a mixture of medical management, psychotherapy, and supportive interventions. Recent advances in neuroimaging and a deeper exploration of its epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation have shed new light on this disorder. This paper synthesizes the current knowledge on FND, focusing on its epidemiology and underlying mechanisms, neuroimaging insights, and the differentiation of FND from feigning or malingering. This review highlights the phenotypic heterogeneity of FND and the diagnostic challenges it presents. It also discusses the significant role of neuroimaging in unraveling the complex neural underpinnings of FND and its potential in predicting treatment response. This paper underscores the importance of a nuanced understanding of FND in informing clinical practice and guiding future research. With advancements in neuroimaging techniques and growing recognition of the disorder's multifaceted nature, the paper suggests a promising trajectory toward more effective, personalized treatment strategies and a better overall understanding of the disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. One of the most frequent changes that can occur during pregnancy is ureterohydronephrosis (dilatation of pylon and of the renal calices) which happens in about 90% of pregnancies. If this situation is accompanied by what seems to represent a renal colic, we have to carefully evaluate the situation because our therapeutic decisions can affect both mother and fetus. Material and method. We analyzed the experience of Urology and Kidney Transplant Clinic in Iași as regards the management of the pregnant woman with symptomatic ureterohydronephrosis through the cases presented and admitted in the course of the year 2015. The group studied was represented by pregnant women admitted to whom we have analyzed the age, ureterohydronephrosis stage, gestational age and its connection with the dilatation degree and the need for a surgical maneuver during admission or in postpartum recovery. Results. The majority of the patients were between the ages of 20 and 29 years. Gestational age was relatively evenly distributed in the group studied without a linear correlation between the age of the patients and gestational age at presentation, although we observed a slight tendency for the presentation of the cases in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. We have noticed an increase of the ureterohydronephrosis degree correlated with the gestational age. Patients presented with minimal dilation had an average gestational age of 17,71 weeks, those with dilation grade I had gestational age average of 22,41 weeks, dilation grade II: 24,15 weeks and the degree III: 29 weeks. The majority of cases (72.9%) have ureterohydronephrosis on the right kidney. Of the admitted patients 45 had a favorable evolution after conservative treatment (antispastic/ antibiotic) and only a number of 25 (35,7%) requiring a surgical procedure due to the unfavorable evolution, this procedure being represented by the insertion of a JJ stent. After birth only a number of 3 cases have required a therapeutic approach adapted to a stone that was persistent. Conclusions. Although ureterohydronephrosis in pregnant woman presents an increased risk of developing various complications, frequently, under conservatory treatment, progress is favorable. Otherwise the insertion of a JJ stent can be a simple and safe maneuver witch ensures a favorable status, in spite of the symptoms accompanying the wearing of an urinary stent. After delivery the patient must return to urologist for evaluation of the presence or absence of an urethral calculus that will require a subsequent therapeutic approach. The vast majority of patients have no litiasic obstacle, the simple extraction of the JJ stent being the only maneuver they will still have to bear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the advantages of using stress-relief heat-treatment on the properties of rotor Pelton. Also presented is the optimal treatment scheme obtained from the researches done [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics of pyelonephritis with multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in pregnant women in comparison to pyelonephritis with multidrug-sensitive bacteria in this particular patient group., Methods: We conducted a retrospective study over a period of three years on a study group of 17 pregnant patients with pyelonephritis with MDR bacteria and on a control group of 52 pregnant patients with pyelonephritis with multidrug-sensitive bacteria. We analyzed the demographic data, the potential risk factors, aspects of the clinical picture, the incidence and type of bacteria involved, and their sensitivity spectrum., Results: The patients in the study group had pyelonephritis on the right side (N=10, 58.83%), were in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy (N=16, 94.12%), and had a high percentage of anemia (N=9, 52.94%), as did the control group. Unlike the patients in the control group, the patients in the study group had a higher incidence of antibiotic treatment (N=17,100% vs. N=14, 29.92%, p<0.001), previous urological surgery, especially ureteral catheterization with insertion of double-J catheters (N=9, 52.94% vs. N=9, 17.30%, p=0.003), and an increased incidence of urosepsis on admission (N=11, 64.70% vs. N=11, 21.15%, p<0.001). E. coli (N=8, 47.05% vs. N=28, 53.85%, p=0.626) and Klebsiella pn. (N=5, 29.41% vs. N=12, 23.07%, p=0.598) were predominant in both study groups. Also, the hospitalization days were significantly higher in the study group compared with the control group (N=7.38±2,91 vs. N=5.02±1,87, p=0.002). The spectrum of microbial resistance was increased in favor of the study group for all antibiotics tested, with the exception of ampicillin, where resistance was increased in both groups. The Gram-negative bacteria responsible for the pyelonephritis in both groups retained 100% sensitivity to carbapenems and piperacillin/tazobactam., Conclusions: Pregnant women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy who have undergone right-sided double-J catheter insertion during pregnancy and/or who have received antibiotic treatment in the past are at increased risk for pyelonephritis with MDR. E. coli and Klebsiella pn.,  bacteria are most commonly involved and maintain susceptibility to carbapenems and reserve penicillins., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Radu et al.)