This scoping review explores the concept of proportionality at the intersection of law, public policy, and crisis management during the COVID-19 pandemic. The review identifies five central themes in the literature, focusing on proportionality as a regulatory tool in public sector crisis management. The pandemic necessitated global implementation of coercive measures to control virus spread, leading to significant infringements on human rights and raising critical questions about the permissible extent of administrative interventions. The aim is twofold: first, to address the controversial issue of decision-making under uncertainty by suggesting the application of the proportionality framework; second, to map key concepts, methods, and fields of study to identify research gaps related to proportionality in public health crisis decision-making. The findings emphasize the potential benefits of proportionality in structured crisis policy-making processes, aiding transparent decision-making and balancing rights and policy needs. This analysis provides valuable insights for policymakers, legal professionals, and public health authorities in navigating future crises.

Examines the development and evolution of solar cell materials with a focus on how these changes have affected solar energy conversion's effectiveness, stability, and scalability. The heading "From Silicon to Sunlight: Exploring the Evolution of Solar Cell Materials," among others. The chapters include "Perovskite Revolution: A Game-Changer in Solar Cell Technology," "Quantum Dots: Exploring Nanostructures for Efficient Solar Energy Conversion," "Tandem Solar Cells: Combining Materials for Enhanced Performance," "Stability Challenges: Addressing the Durability of Solar Cell Materials," "Emerging Trends: Materials Innovations for Next-Generation Solar Cells," and "Conclusion: Charting the Future Path of Solar Cell Materials." The transition away from silicon-based solar cells to substitute materials, like perovskites and quantum dots, and their potential for better light absorption and charge transport, are highlighted in the first part. The details of each material's unique characteristics, difficulties, and prospective uses are covered in the following sections. Quantum dots offer broad-spectrum absorption and improved charge transport features, whereas perovskite solar cells have excellent efficiency, solution process ability, and variable band gaps. Tandem solar cells mix different materials to increase efficiency and catch a wider range of sunlight. Encapsulation techniques, protective coatings, and improved material designs are used to handle stability concerns such moisture intrusion, UV degradation, and mechanical stressors. The review paper emphasizes the newest developments in solar cell technology, such as the use of abundant, sustainable materials, the creation of flexible solar cells, the incorporation of nanomaterial, and the investigation of cutting-edge characterization methods. Higher energy conversion efficiencies, enhanced sustainability, better flexibility, and the incorporation of solar cells into the built environment are just a few of the potential effects of these trends that could affect the use of solar energy in the future that are explored. The advancement of solar cell technology will be fueled by ongoing research and collaboration in materials science and engineering. The abstract underlines the significance of material innovation in determining the future of solar energy while summarizing the main conclusions of the review study.

Fire is a major ecological driver affecting vegetation growth species distributions, and wildlife habitats, emphasizing its ecological importance’s. This study analysis a vegetation health and fire dynamic in Langtang National Park (LNP) Nepal using MODIS derived fire occurrences data, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Climate Hazard Center Infrared precipitation with stations (CHRIPS) data, Land Surface Temperature (LST) data to examine the vegetation health and fire dynamic over 20 years (200-2020).The Mann-Kendall (MK) trend tests showed a significant increase in NDVI maximum values ( p < 0.05 ), while fire occurrences showed no consistent temporal trend ( p > 0.05 ). While (r = 0.62) a good positive correlation was found between maximum temperature and burn area, increased temperature relates to increase in fire activity and larger burn areas. Similarly VCI maximum highly predicated NDVI values (p = 0.0001), with moderate though significant fires impacting vegetation health. Grassland and needle leaf forests are the major land cover with relatively high fire frequency. Likely due to flammable biomass and seasonal dryness, while broad leaved closed forests displayed better fire resilience. The findings underline the need for integrated fire management strategies involving satellite monitoring, risk zonation, climate responsive planning, and community engagement to reduce fire risks in ecological sensitive area and strengthen ecosystem resilience in the Himalaya.

Soil moisture (SM) plays a crucial role in land-atmosphere (LA) interactions by regulating evapotranspiration and influencing moisture and energy budgets. However, challenges persist in quantifying LA coupling due to inconsistencies across observational datasets, reanalysis products, and model simulations. This study addresses these challenges by developing observationally derived LA coupling metrics while accounting for stochastic errors in satellite-based soil moisture measurements. These metrics are then applied to the Community Earth System Model (CESM) to provide a robust framework for model validation.  Global observationally gridded LA coupling metrics are constructed using SM time series from the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP L3) satellite, the Climate Change Initiative (ESA CCI v08.1), and machine learning-derived soil moisture (SoMo.ml), alongside observation-based surface heat fluxes from the Global Land Evaporation Amsterdam Model (GLEAM), FluxCom, and the Collocation-Analyzed Multi-source Ensembled Land Evapotranspiration (CAMELE). Given that SM variability typically resembles a first-order Markov process, this study introduces a methodology to estimate random errors in satellite-based SM data, improving the accuracy of LA coupling indices. One of the LA coupling indices is the corrected Pearson correlation coefficients between SM and surface fluxes. Additionally, Soil Moisture Metrics, such as corrected soil moisture memory and key breakpoints (e.g., wilting point, critical soil moisture), are applied to analyze regime distributions. The evaluation of corrected LA coupling metrics against in-situ measurements from the AmeriFlux network further enhances confidence in these estimates. Ultimately, this research provides a new benchmark for model validation, offering insights into potential improvements in climate model parameterizations and predictive capabilities.  

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains a leading cause of respiratory illness, particularly affecting infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and current management strategies for RSV, highlighting the urgent need for effective vaccines and antiviral therapies. The study emphasizes integrating RSV vaccination into routine immunization schedules for high-risk populations and improving diagnostic capabilities. It calls for targeted public health interventions, strengthened preventive measures, and further research on vaccine optimization and novel therapeutic approaches. These steps are essential to reduce RSV-associated morbidity and mortality, ultimately improving global respiratory health.

This paper presents a novel theoretical framework based on information geometry and scale-dependent dimensionality that offers unified explanations for phenomena across all physical scales. The proposed dimensional flow theory demonstrates how effective dimensionality varies with scale, creating a natural hierarchy that explains quantum behaviors as projections from lower-dimensional spaces to higher-dimensional observation space. This approach resolves quantum paradoxes while preserving determinism and locality at the fundamental level. The framework successfully derives the mass spectrum of elementary particles and coupling constants from dimensional parameters, establishing a geometric foundation for the Standard Model without fine-tuning. At galactic scales, the theory provides excellent agreement with SPARC database observations of rotation curves without invoking dark matter. Cosmologically, it reinterprets redshift observations as manifestations of a static universe with a dimensional gradient, rather than an expanding universe. This eliminates the need for inflation, dark energy, and a beginning of time, while maintaining consistency with observational constraints. Gravitational phenomena emerge from dimensional gradients rather than spacetime curvature, and cosmic microwave background features appear as dimensional tomography rather than echoes of a primordial state. The framework's remarkable predictive power across diverse phenomena, coupled with its significant reduction in free parameters compared to current models, suggests that physical reality may be fundamentally based on information-geometric principles and scale-dependent dimensionality rather than an evolving spacetime.

This paper presents a novel theoretical framework based on information geometry and scale-dependent dimensionality that offers unified explanations for phenomena across all physical scales. The proposed dimensional flow theory demonstrates how effective dimensionality varies with scale, creating a natural hierarchy that explains quantum behaviors as projections from lower-dimensional spaces to higher-dimensional observation space. This approach resolves quantum paradoxes while preserving determinism and locality at the fundamental level. The framework successfully derives the mass spectrum of elementary particles and coupling constants from dimensional parameters, establishing a geometric foundation for the Standard Model without fine-tuning. At galactic scales, the theory provides excellent agreement with SPARC database observations of rotation curves without invoking dark matter. Cosmologically, it reinterprets redshift observations as manifestations of a static universe with a dimensional gradient, rather than an expanding universe. This eliminates the need for inflation, dark energy, and a beginning of time, while maintaining consistency with observational constraints. Gravitational phenomena emerge from dimensional gradients rather than spacetime curvature, and cosmic microwave background features appear as dimensional tomography rather than echoes of a primordial state. The framework's remarkable predictive power across diverse phenomena, coupled with its significant reduction in free parameters compared to current models, suggests that physical reality may be fundamentally based on information-geometric principles and scale-dependent dimensionality rather than an evolving spacetime.

Abstract The optical density of an X-ray photograph can only be measured after film development. If the developed film does not meet quality standards, parameters must be adjusted and the optical density re-measured, requiring additional time and effort. In contrast, digital radiography (DR) images allow direct reading of gray-scale values on the display screen. By fine-tuning parameters like window width, window level, and contrast, high-quality images can be efficiently obtained. To explore the relationship between X-ray photograph density and DR image gray-scale values, we used 256-level grayscale test images as research subjects. Gray-scale values of DR images and density values of laser-printed photographs were analyzed for correlation and regression. Results showed a strong linear relationship between DR image gray-scale values and photograph density values. Verification was conducted across different anatomical regions and X-ray conditions, confirming that DR image gray-scale values reliably predict laser-printed photograph density values.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flows play a main role in maintaining brain homeostasis, supporting waste clearance, nutrient delivery and interstitial solute exchange. Although current models emphasize mechanical drivers such as cardiac pulsation, respiration and ciliary motion, these mechanisms alone fall short of explaining the nuanced spatiotemporal regulation of CSF flow observed under physiological and pathological conditions—even when accounting for the glymphatic framework. We explore the hypothesis that electrostatic forces arising from charged cellular interfaces may contribute to CSF movement through electro-osmotic mechanisms. We begin by examining the biological basis for surface charge in the brain, highlighting the presence of charged glycoproteins, ion channels and dynamic membrane potentials on ependymal and glial cells interfacing directly with CSF pathways. Next, we describe key principles of electro-osmosis in confined geometries, emphasizing how nanoscale surface charges can modulate fluid motion without mechanical input. Drawing from nanofluidic research and electrohydrodynamic theory, we argue that the conditions required for electro-osmotic coupling, i.e., ionic fluid, narrow conduits and patterned surface charge, are present within brain microenvironments. To test plausibility, we present computational simulations demonstrating that surface charge patterns alone can induce structured fluid flow and solute transport, including nonlinear transitions and oscillatory behaviours that resemble physiological rhythms. These findings support the idea that electrostatics may play a modulatory role in CSF regulation, complementing mechanical drivers. Overall, by integrating concepts from neuroscience, biophysics and nanotechnology, we propose a testable, mechanistically grounded hypothesis reframing CSF dynamics as electrohydrodynamically sensitive processes, with potential implications for understanding brain function and dysfunction.

Generation of memory CD8 +T cells is necessary for the establishment of protective T cell immunity against pathogens. The understanding of the cellular and molecular processes involved in the formation of memory CD8 + T cells remains elusive. Current knowledge gaps may stem from reliance on specific pathogen-free (SPF) models, where restricted microbial exposure creates an immunological milieu that diverges from natural environments. Here, we demonstrate that under non-SPF housing, CD1d +/− and Ja18 +/− mice show enhanced central memory (TCM) formation versus CD1d-restricted NKT-deficient (CD1d −/−/Ja18 −/−) controls, implicating CD1d-restricted NKT cells in TCM formation. Mechanistically, CD1d-restricted NKT cells elevated CD4 + T cell-derived IL-15 in CD1d +/- mice, activating the IL-15/pSTAT5/Eomes axis essential for TCM maintenance. Functional validation through CFSE-labeled OT-1 memory cell transfers revealed an NKT-dependent survival advantage in CD1d +/− hosts, providing direct evidence for microbial-experienced niches in shaping immune memory. These findings establish CD1d-restriced NKT cells as physiological regulators of TCM generation, suggesting their potential utility as vaccine adjuvants to enhance protective immunity.

CRTAM, an adhesion molecule with immunoregulatory properties, plays a crucial role in late-stage polarization processes, including the localization of proteins like CD44, talin, CD3, and PKC-ζ, as well as the secretion of cytokines such as IFN-γ, IL-17, and IL-22. These processes are essential for the development of memory CD8 T lymphocytes. This study aimed to investigate the impact of CRTAM expression on the generation of memory CD8 T lymphocytes. Our findings demonstrate that CRTAM is indispensable for establishing the CD8 effector memory subpopulation and maintaining CD8 central memory cells long-term after live bacteria immunization. Moreover, during the acute phase of the immune response against an attenuated strain of Salmonella, CRTAM expression promotes a transient KLRG1 + CD127 + phenotype. Furthermore, CRTAM influences protection against virulent Salmonella, impacting the frequency of CD8+ IFN-γ+ and Grz-B+ cells and CD8 T cell retention. Specifically, CRTAM deficiency diminishes the protective capacity and alters the balance of effector and memory CD8 T cell populations. These results collectively establish CRTAM as a crucial regulator of memory CD8 T cell subset dynamic, influencing both the establishment and maintenance of them while also playing a role in the acute and recall response.

Background and Purpose: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely utilized in regenerative medicine due to their multipotency and immunomodulatory properties. Compared to conventional two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures, three-dimensional (3D) spheroid cultures better mimic the in vivo microenvironment, influencing the metabolic activity and therapeutic efficacy of MSCs. This study aims to evaluate how 2D and 3D culture conditions affect the behavior, proliferation, and functional properties of MSCs. Experimental Approach: Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses were conducted on MSCs cultured under both 2D and 3D conditions. To assess metabolic differences between 2D and 3D cultured MSCs, polar metabolites were extracted and analyzed using ¹H-NMR spectroscopy. The data was processed with Chenomx and subjected to multivariate statistical analysis. For transcriptomic analysis, RNA sequencing was performed, followed by differential gene expression and gene set enrichment analysis. Key Results: The findings reveal that MSCs in 3D spheroids exhibit reduced proliferation, enhanced stemness, and distinct metabolic adaptations, including increased glycolysis and altered nutrient metabolism. Additionally, genes associated with ribosome biogenesis and cell cycle progression were downregulated in 3D MSCs. These changes promote a more quiescent state, favoring its applications on tissue repair and immune modulation. Conclusion and Implications: Understanding these metabolic adaptations offers valuable insights for optimizing culture conditions, improving MSC-based therapies, and identifying novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers.

Resting-state fMRI (rsfMRI) is a widely used neuroimaging technique that measures spontaneous fluctuations in brain activity in the absence of specific external cognitive, motor, emotional or other stimuli, based on the blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signal. Functional connectivity (FC) is a popular rsfMRI analysis examining BOLD signal correlations between brain regions. Nevertheless, there are alternative analyses that provide different but collectively informative characteristics of the BOLD signal and, thus, local brain activity. This narrative review aimed to provide a comprehensive conceptual, mathematical, and significance investigation of common rsfMRI analyses in addition to FC. To achieve this, a narrative review was conducted on studies using the most common rsfMRI analysis to investigate global, regional, and local brain activity in healthy and diseased populations. Five rsfMRI analyses were described, summarizing the common initial steps in data processing and explaining the main characteristics and how each metric is calculated. The rsfMRI analyses described are (1) FC, reflecting BOLD global connectivity; (2) the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and fractional ALFF (fALFF), representing the intensity of the BOLD signal; (3) regional homogeneity (ReHo), which reflects BOLD local connectivity; (4) entropy, depicting the BOLD predictability and (5) Hurst exponent (H), depicting autocorrelation of the BOLD signal. As rsfMRI is a vital tool for exploring brain function, selecting an analysis that aligns with the research question is essential. This review offers an initial catalog of standard rsfMRI analyses, highlighting their key features, concepts, and considerations to support informed decisions by researchers and clinicians.

This study presents a polynomial-based wind speed profile characterization framework that approximates full vertical profiles using five physically meaningful Chebyshev polynomial coefficients. The framework captures key morphological features of wind profiles, including mean wind speed, vertical shear, curvature, inflection-related behavior, and higher-order fluctuations. Its accuracy is demonstrated using well-documented wind regimes such as well-mixed, shear-dominant, logarithmic-shaped, and low-level jet (LLJ) profiles, showing consistent performance across diverse atmospheric conditions. To evaluate its practical utility by moving beyond conventional error metrics, the framework was applied to compare simulated wind profiles from a mesoscale model-generated dataset against lidar observations. Results show that the mesoscale model reliably captured mean and shear structures, especially at coastal sites, while underrepresenting curvature and higher-order variations at inland locations. The framework also facilitated a spatial and temporal assessment of model behavior, distinguishing coastal from inland site characteristics and capturing diurnal and seasonal variability, including LLJs driven by sea-breeze circulation. We touched upon the future potential applications, such as machine-learning-based profile reconstruction, near-surface wind extrapolation, inflow condition assessment, short-term forecasting, and model sensitivity studies. The proposed framework also supports improved site selection and reference identification in Measure–Correlate–Predict (MCP) analyses.

Abstract Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant perioperative risk in gynaecological cancers. While anticoagulation is standard prophylaxis, some patients require inferior vena cava (IVC) filters due to contraindications. However, evidence on their efficacy and impact remains limited and conflicting. Objectives: This systematic review analyses existing literature on IVC filter use in gynaecological oncology. Search Strategy: A systematic search of CINAHL, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted using the keywords (’IVC filter’) AND (’Gynaecological cancer’). Selection criteria: Studies published between January 2003 and December 2024 involving human subjects with gynaecological cancer and IVC filter use were included, while reviews, case reports, non-gynaecological cancers, alternative treatments were excluded. Data Collection and Analysis: A narrative systematic review was conducted, grouping results by indication, filter type, timing, complications, and survival outcomes. Main Results: Eight retrospective studies met inclusion criteria, encompassing 287 patients, primarily with advanced ovarian cancer (62%). Indications for filter placement varied, including current deep vein thrombosis (DVT) requiring surgery and anticoagulation contraindications. Combined filter use with anticoagulation reduced VTE events in most studies. Filter-related complications (e.g., migration, thrombosis, tilt, fracture) were infrequent (0–2%). No consistent association between IVC filter use and survival outcomes was observed, highlighting the need for further prospective research. Conclusions: IVC filters benefit patients with anticoagulation contraindications, failures, or urgent surgical needs. However, due to potential complications, prophylactic use is not recommended, and prompt retrieval is advised when safe. Funding: No funding was needed for this review. Key Words: IVC filter, Venous thrombo-embolism, Gynaecological cancer

Introduction: Despite elusive consensus regarding the pelvic splanchnic nerve’s (PSN) mechanistic contributions to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), emerging evidence implicates its regulatory role in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This systematic review synthesizes current understanding of PSN pathophysiology through mechanistic analyses, animal model paradigms, diagnostic methodologies, and translational research trajectories. Methods: A systematic literature search (PubMed/CNKI through 20-Jan-2024) employed dual-reviewer protocol with predefined inclusion criteria. Data extraction encompassed study design, experimental models, temporal parameters, assessment modalities, and key findings. Methodological rigor followed PRISMA guidelines for evidence synthesis. The systematic review has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024505013). Results: Analysis of 61 qualified studies (32 preclinical, 12 histopathological, 17 clinical) identified two validated animal models: vaginal distension (VD) and pudendal nerve transection (PNT). Furthermore，neuromodulation therapies demonstrated efficacy across multiple studies, including: Sacral neuromodulation (SNM)，Electroacupuncture (EA)，Transcutaneous mechanical nerve stimulation (TMNS)，Electrical pudendal nerve stimulation (EPNS). Conclusions: While PSN’s precise pathomechanisms in POP require further elucidation, current evidence establishes strong associations between PSN integrity and POP/SUI pathogenesis, though molecular mediators remain undefined. This highlighting a direction that demands additional endeavors and potentially necessitates further relevant experimental studies for validation.

Alongside models and methods, concepts are crucial tools to study and understand the brain. They help us pursue various goals, such as describing phenomena based on patterns in the data or explaining why these phenomena occur. Yet while terms such as “action potential” or “network” guide our efforts to reach these goals, other concepts have failed to advance our understanding of the brain. In this paper, we draw on recent work from philosophy of science to show that the success or failure of concepts in neuroscience depends on the epistemic goals the field aims to achieve. Looking at cases such as “default mode network”, “cortical column” and “hierarchy” we formulate conditions under which introducing, refining, or replacing a concept succeeds or fails. These cases suggest that to better evaluate our concepts, we should make explicit which goals we aim to achieve when using them.

Background : Colon cancer(CC) is a common and deadly cancer. Research indicates a connection between inflammation, lipids, and colon cancer, though the precise nature of this relationship remains uncertain. Method : We performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization(MR) analysis to examine the potential mediating role of inflammation in the relationship between lipids and colon cancer. In this study, we utilized recently published genome-wide association study (GWAS) data pertaining to lipids, inflammation, and colon cancer. The GeneRISK cohort provided lipid GWAS data from 7,169 Finnish individuals of European ancestry. Inflammation GWAS data were collected from 14,824 European participants across 11 cohorts using the Olink Target Inflammation panel. Colon cancer GWAS data were sourced from the IEU GWAS catalog (UKB-B-20145). Results : In this study, we identified one mediating relationship between inflammation, lipid, and colon cancer. Specifically, Phosphatidylethanolamine(PE) was found to indirectly influence colon cancer via Axin-1 concentration (OR=0.88 [95%CI(0.78, 0.99)], P =0.04).Although no mediating role of IL-17 in the relationship between phosphatidylcholine(PC) and CC was observed, our results suggest that PC can promote the development of CC(OR=1.12 [95%CI(1.00,1.24)], P=0.040), while IL-17 can inhibit the progression of CC(OR=0.87 [95%CI(0.76, 0.99)], P=0.034). Discussion : In conclusion, our MR analysis identifies the indirect effects of and Axin1 on the PE to CC, supporting the link between genetically predicted lipid levels, inflammation, and CC. These findings furnish genetic evidence that underscores the role of lipid and inflammation mechanisms in reducing the risk of CC, thereby providing valuable insights for future mechanistic and clinical research.

Land degradation poses a severe threat to global ecological security, and traditional wind erosion control technologies face limitations in durability and environmental compatibility.Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) has emerged as a sustainable sand stabilization approach, demonstrating significant effectiveness in enhancing the wind erosion resistance of sandy soils.However, the practical implementation of this technology still faces challenges, including high costs, uneven cementation, and environmental risks associated with NH 4 + release.This study reviews the latest advancements in MICP technology, focusing on cost optimization, field applications, and byproduct management.Research indicates that selecting native microbial strains, utilizing waste resources (such as human urine and eggshells) as substitutes for industrial reagents, and optimizing processing techniques can significantly reduce MICP treatment costs.Field experiments have confirmed that MICP enhances soil stability and can be integrated with physical sand barriers to improve sand stabilization effectiveness.To address the issue of NH 4 + byproducts, strategies such as struvite precipitation and zeolite adsorption have proven to be effective in achieving efficient removal.Future research should focus on long-term durability, adaptation to extreme climatic conditions, and the resource utilization of byproducts to facilitate the large-scale application of MICP technology.

Ganzhou City in Jiangxi Province, China, serves as a critical source and supplier of rare earth ions. However, rampant mining activities have led to severe soil erosion, persistent pollution, and considerable land degradation within the mining areas. Grassed waterways (GWWs) offer substantial advantages in drainage, erosion resistance, and promoting sediment deposition. This study investigated the utilization of the GWW for soil conservation in rare earth tailings in southern Jiangxi Province, focusing on the dynamic effects of flow and slope on runoff processes, sediment transport, and particle sorting during multiple scouring events. Results demonstrate that the GWW effectively reduced runoff rates and significantly controlled sediment yield. Both flow and slope influence sediment yield rates, with slope having a more pronounced impact. Particle size distribution in GWWs, under varying flow rates, slopes, and field conditions, typically exhibits bimodal patterns, with particles in the 0–0.068 mm and 0.094–0.171 mm ranges dominating the eroded sediment. Transport mechanisms, primarily suspension/saltation (>50%) and rolling, affect these particle sizes respectively, while coarse particles (>0.955 mm) are predominantly deposited. The GWW enhanced particle separation, minimizing the loss of large particles, including agglomerates and individual particles, thereby reducing overall sediment generation. This study provides valuable insights into the potential of GWW for mitigating runoff and sediment production and optimizing deposition processes, providing practical implications for engineering applications.

Bioaugmented microbially-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a potentially useful tool for permeability modification of the subsurface. There is, however, uncertainty surrounding how the transport and mineralization capability of augmenting organisms such as Sporosarcina pasteurii may vary with reservoir properties. Resolving these uncertainties requires further experimental work on natural rock samples; this necessitates, in turn, creative approaches to improving the reproducibility and generalizability of such experimental work. In this study, natural sandstones with different clay contents are processed to narrow grain size ranges and packed into columns, allowing the effect of clay content to be studied independently of pore size. Clay content is shown to have a significant effect on S. pasteurii attachment to rock surfaces, possibly due to the high specific surface area of clay minerals, while the effect of pore size is minor in the absence of straining. Furthermore, differences in S. pasteurii affinity for solid surfaces produce clear differences in the quantity and distribution of precipitate accumulation. When viable S. pasteurii cells are mostly surface-attached, precipitate accumulation begins almost immediately and precipitates appear to form primarily on grain surfaces. When only a small fraction of S. pasteurii is surface-attached, precipitate accumulation begins later but becomes significant with time. In this case, however, precipitates appear to form primarily in suspension, which may produce different precipitation efficiencies and precipitate morphologies based on mass transport conditions.

Ovarian cancer remains one of the deadliest gynecological malignancies due to late-stage diagnosis and inherent resistance to conventional therapies, highlighting a critical need for novel treatment strategies. This study aimed to elucidate the apoptotic and signaling mechanisms underlying the individual and combined anticancer effects of MET and ATOR on ovarian cancer cells. The OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cell line was exposed to varying concentrations of MET (2–256 mM) and ATOR (0.78–50 mM), alone or in combination, for 24, 48, and 72 hours. Cell viability was assessed via the MTS assay, while expression of apoptotic and signaling proteins (Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase 3, AMPK, ERK) was analyzed using Western blotting. Both MET and ATOR significantly reduced OVCAR-3 cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner, with calculated IC50 values of 12.77 mM (MET, p<0.0001) and 1.51 mM (ATOR, p<0.0001) at 72 hours. Combination treatment exhibited a pronounced synergistic effect, markedly enhancing apoptosis by increasing pro-apoptotic Bax (p<0.0001) and Caspase 3 (p<0.0001) and reducing anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression (p<0.0001). Furthermore, MET and ATOR synergistically modulated critical signaling pathways by significantly activating AMPK (p<0.0001) and suppressing ERK (p<0.0001). MET and ATOR combination demonstrated substantial synergistic anticancer efficacy in ovarian cancer cells, mediated through enhanced apoptotic signaling and modulation of AMPK/ERK pathways. These findings emphasize justification for further preclinical and clinical exploration of MET and ATOR as viable, cost-effective treatment options to improve therapeutic outcomes in ovarian cancer studies.

Iranian-Belgian relations witnessed significant development in politics and economics between 1928 and 1975, reflected in a series of bilateral agreements and treaties. These agreements focused on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, transportation, and diplomatic relations. Political and Diplomatic Agreements: • This period saw several agreements that reinforced diplomatic ties between the two countries, including the exchange of ambassadors, diplomatic immunity guarantees, and the development of friendly relations in accordance with international laws. Economic and Trade Agreements: • Several agreements were signed to regulate bilateral trade, facilitate mutual investments, and provide tariff exemptions for certain goods. • The 1950 agreement enhanced cooperation in mining and heavy industries, with Belgian companies playing a role in Iran's infrastructure projects. 2 • The 1963 agreement focused on encouraging and protecting mutual investments, strengthening Belgian companies' presence in Iran's energy and transportation sectors. Cooperation in Transportation and Energy: • Agreements were signed to regulate maritime and air transport between the two countries, alongside collaboration in developing Iran's transportation infrastructure. • Cooperation in the energy sector emerged, with Belgian companies contributing to electric power and oil projects. This phase concluded with agreements that included mutual economic facilitations, reflecting significant progress in Iranian-Belgian relations until the mid-1970s.

This summary presents a controversial issue in firefly-watching tourism in Japan by reporting a case of Tatsuno Town, Nagano Prefecture. In this town, alien fireflies were intentionally introduced for the purpose of firefly-watching tourism, thereby driving native fireflies to extinction there.