Background: Thrombocytopenia is a common hematologic finding in children and adolescents. Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is the most common cause of this finding, but the differential diagnosis includes a growing list of genetic disorders. We aimed to report differences in phenotypes of patients with ITP, inherited platelet disorder (IPD)/primary immunodeficiency disorder (PID), and other causes, with a focus on differentiating ITP from inherited thrombocytopenia. Procedure: This retrospective, population-based observational cohort from 2006 to 2020 involved 506 Finnish children under 16 years of age presenting with isolated thrombocytopenia. Results: Of the 506 participants, 79.7% had ITP, 6.7% had IPD/PID, and 13.6% had other causes of thrombocytopenia. A platelet count of ≤12 × 10 9/l best distinguished between ITP and other reasons with a sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 80%. Among patients with the lowest platelet count of <10 × 10 9/l, 95.9% had ITP, 3.3% had IPD/PID, and 0.8% had other causes. Severe bleeding events were reported in 20 patients (4.0%), but there were no cases of intracranial or fatal bleeding due to thrombocytopenia. Up to 50% of patients with a high suspicion of inherited thrombocytopenia remained without a specific diagnosis despite genetic testing. Conclusions: ITP remains the most common cause of thrombocytopenia. A platelet count of ≤12 × 10 9/l often leads to an ITP diagnosis. Genetic disorders are rare but should be suspected in patients with persisting thrombocytopenia, especially with platelet counts constantly above 12 × 10 9/l, a positive family history, or atypical clinical features.

Nanosatellites have tight constraints on mass and volume, and still require attitude control and orbital manoeuvring capabilities. This condition is amplified with variation in the propellant and pressurant storage and delivery systems. This study had its focus on the effect of material selection on the design and optimization of a cold gas propellant tank pressurized system for a nanosatellite, using SolidWorks software. The storage tank was designed using alternative material choices of Aluminium, Titanium and Nylon to achieve high strength to density ratio while operating with thermofluid properties of the working fluid at satellite heights. Th results showed that for the same amount of applied load, it is evident that aluminium could withstand a higher stress level of 245.31 MPa than titanium (171.02 MPa) but titanium suffers lesser strain (0.001399) compared with aluminium which had a strain value of 0.002917. The membrane displacement was more tolerable for Titanium (0.03029 mm) than the 0.05589 mm witnessed in Aluminium. The mass of aluminium (756.77684 g) was much higher than that of titanium (409.413 g). All these made Titanium the material of choice.

The increased level of financial transactions before and specifically after the influx of COVID-19 has heightened the activities of fraudsters in the mobile money sector. This calls for the development of robust systems that would effectively detect and if possible prevent these unscrupulous occurrences to a large extent. The features of mobile money transactions dataset are highly unstructured, and therefore need to be streamlined using a powerful supervised machine learning tool. Genetic Algorithm has been proposed as an effective feature selection method in this paper. Selected machine learning algorithms were used to further build the models for the fraud detection system. These ML techniques include Artificial Neural Networks, Random Forest, Naïve Bayes, Decision Trees and Logistic Regression. In order to test the efficacy of the classifiers, the performance of the models were validated using mobile money dataset obtained from kaggle database. The findings from this work have clearly proven that the proposed algorithm used for the feature selection exhibits greater efficiency than the existing machine learning techniques.

Microbial life flourishes all around us and is invisible to the naked eye. Within this microscopic world are intracellular bacteria, including Salmonella enterica, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Orientia tsutsugamushi. By hijacking eukaryotic host cellular machinery and avoiding detection, these bacteria orchestrate their own survival and replication within host cells. The intricate nature of these interactions are usually communicated through images and graphical presentations, thereby excluding the low vision and blind communities. By taking part in the Sensory Science Exhibition, held at St Catharine’s College, University of Cambridge as part of the Cambridge Festival on the 18th March 2024, we sought to address this problem through creating a 3D mammalian cell and model bacteria. The aim of this tactile display was to guide participants through key aspects of intracellular bacterial life cycles such as host cell entry, S. enterica type three secretion system (T3SS) protein secretion, O. tsutsugamushi trafficking along microtubules, and C. trachomatis replication within an inclusion. We hope our multisensory conceptualisation of the intriguing lives of intracellular bacteria provided inclusive science communication to the low vision and blind communities.

Crystallographic fragment screening (CFS) has recently matured into an important method for the early stages of drug discovery projects. It is based on high-throughput structure determination and thus requires a high degree of automation as well as specialized workflows and robust analysis tools. Consequently, large-scale research facilities such as synchrotrons have embraced the method, and developed platforms to perform CFS campaigns with the help of crystallography experts and specific tools. The BESSY II synchrotron, operated by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB), is one of these synchrotron facilities that offer a CFS platform, named the F2X-facility. Here, the specialized F2X workflow is described along with the relevant differences to other existing CFS platforms, and the ongoing developments aimed at supporting users of the facility. The different stages of a CFS campaign including requirements, beamline capabilities, and the software environment are detailed and explained. A unique F2X-GO kit is featured, which allows users the possibility of performing all sample preparation in their home laboratories. Furthermore, at the HZB a computational workflow has been built to support users beyond the hit identification stage. The advantages of the F2X-facility at HZB are described and references are provided to successfully conduct CFS.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has emerged as a potentially effective therapeutic approach to modulate cellular functions. This study aimed to examine the impact of PBM on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation, and glutathione-related antioxidant defense systems in rabbit eye tissues. A polychromatic light source with an intensity of 2.6 J/cm 2/min was used for PBM treatment in New Zealand White rabbits for 12 minutes. The PBM group (n=8) received treatments every two days for a total of twelve sessions, while the control group (n=8) did not undergo any PBM light exposure during the same period. The application of PBM significantly elevated ROS-mediated glutathione levels, along with increased activities of glutathione peroxidase and reductase, particularly in corneal tissue ( p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, these findings could enhance understanding of PBM’s therapeutic potential for eye health and lead to new strategies for preventing or treating ocular diseases caused by oxidative stress.

A document by Siyuan Xian. Click on the document to view its contents.

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a crucial plant hormone, regulates diverse physiological processes. This study aimed to isolate and characterize IAA-producing bacteria from the chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) rhizosphere and evaluate their effects on plant growth. From 54 rhizosphere samples, 118 bacteria were isolated and screened for IAA production using a Salkowski colorimetric assay, and Bergey’s manual was used for biochemical identification. Among them, 27 isolates produced IAA, with eight high-producers selected. Morphological and biochemical identification classified six isolates as Pseudomonas and two as Bacillus. Optimal conditions for indole-3-acetic acid production were observed at 500 µg/ml tryptophan, 35 °C, and pH 7.0. A 48-hour incubation was ideal, except for GAC-34 and GAC-73, which required 72 hours. All isolates achieved optimal IAA levels with tryptone and sucrose as nitrogen and carbon sources, respectively. Selected isolates showed nitrogen fixation ability, and six isolates exhibited phosphate solubilization. PCR confirmed the amplification of nifH (300 bp), nifK (360 bp), and ipdC (1170 bp) genes. Greenhouse experiments demonstrated that isolates significantly enhanced chickpea growth parameters (p<0.001 and P≤0.05) compared to the control group. These findings suggest that these IAA-producing bacteria have the potential to be used as biofertilizers, although further molecular identification and field studies are required.

The neural underpinnings of written language, similarly to the neural underpinnings of oral language, are left-lateralized. However, cerebral lateralization for written language has only been studied using handwriting tasks; the cerebral lateralization of keyboard typing, a popular alternative means of writing, has not been explored. Therefore, it remains unanswered whether handwriting and keyboard typing follow similar cerebral laterality patterns. The aim of the present preregistered study was to investigate cerebral laterality during typing versus handwriting and to further examine the presence of handedness differences. We hypothesized that: i) cerebral lateralization will not differ between the two methods of writing after movement correction (i.e., after subtracting the control condition from the main task); and ii) cerebral lateralization of both handwriting and typing will be weaker in left-handers compared to right-handers. In order to assess cerebral laterality, we employed functional transcranial Doppler (fTCD) ultrasound, which allows for a reliable assessment of cerebral laterality during language production tasks and is unaffected by movement, such as the movement generated during typing and handwriting. Twenty-four left-handers and 30 right-handers underwent fTCD while performing written word generation either by handwriting or by typing on a computer keyboard. We found evidence of an absence of a difference between the two methods of writing after movement correction. However, we did not find conclusive evidence for either a difference or an absence of a difference in the cerebral lateralization during either method of writing between left-handers and right-handers.

As a class of organic dyes, boron-containing compounds play an important role in organic luminescent materials. They have attracted considerable attention due to their unique photophysical properties. Chiral luminescent systems have a wide range of practical applications in biological imaging, optoelectronic devices, information storage and 3D display. Boron-containing chiral luminescent materials can not only effectively improve the luminescent properties of CPL materials, but also bring unique properties to the system, which enables them to be used as favorable CPL emitting materials for an expanded range of applications. Here, we review the research progress of boron-containing chiral luminescent materials by the detailed discuss according to different chiral skeletons, such as 1,1’-binaphthol, [2,2]paracyclophane, helicenes, pillar[5]arenes, and point chirality. We believe that this review is of significance for the development of boron-containing compounds and CPL materials.

Land use and land cover (LULC) benefit hydrology by enhancing water quality, flood control, and groundwater recharge. Vegetated areas, like forests and crop land, act as natural filters, reducing pollutants, and stabilizing soil to prevent erosion. They also absorb and slow runoff, mitigating floods, and allowing water to infiltrate and recharge groundwater. LULC influences local climate, affecting precipitation and evaporation rates crucial to the water cycle, and helps maintain a stable water supply. Moreover, sustainable LULC protects habitats for aquatic species, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health, ensuring a resilient and balanced hydrological system. There is a need to see the effect of LULC change on the discharge and nearby stream landcover for better management. A study was conducted to assess the impact of historical land cover changes from 2000 and 2023 on the hydrological response of the Reedy River basin Greenville County, South Carolina (SC). Land cover changes were analyzed using Landsat satellite images processed through Google Earth Engine and pre-classified images from the Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics (MRLC) dataset. The effects of these changes on discharge patterns were evaluated using discharge data obtained from the USGS National Water Dashboard. Physically based parameters for hydrological models were estimated using land cover change maps, along with precipitation and temperature data, through multiple regression analysis. The study found that the R 2 value was higher, at 95%, for the MRLC dataset compared to 68% for the Landsat 7 imagery. Despite the Landsat imagery showing significant changes (p<0.05), the MRLC dataset exhibited greater accuracy. Due to the lower accuracy and higher fluctuations observed with Landsat 7 imagery, the MRLC dataset was selected to identify nearby landcover for better management of riparian areas, utilizing the cost distance tool and stream raster in ArcGIS Pro. The result contributed to identify an area which affect the streams negatively.

W. John Martin, MD, PhDInstitute of Progressive MedicineSouth Pasadena CA 91030Running Title: Disintegrating Zebra Mussels in KELEA Treated Spirit Lake, IowaAuthor Mailing Address: 1634 Spruce Street, South Pasadena CA 91030E-Mail: wjohnmartin@ccid.orgPhone: 01-626-616-2868Author ORCID Number: 0000-0002-9947-4374Conflicts of Interests: The author declares no conflicts of interestsWord Count, minus references, legends, and acknowledgment: 1,359Key Words: Zebra mussels, Invasive species, Nature’s allostasis, KELEA, Kiko, cyanobacteria, blue-green algae, pollution, biochar, Iowa, Spirit Lake, Great Lakes, Bechamp-PasteurAbstractZebra mussels are causing severe ecological and economic damage in many parts of the world, including the United States. Efforts to eradicate these and related quagga mussels from major rivers and lakes in the upper Midwest regions of the United States have been unsuccessful despite more than a billion dollars of Government funding and the promotion of various commercial products. Many aquatic ecosystems have been destabilized by the release into the water of excessive agricultural and industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and animal and human waste. Adverse ecological responses commonly include the overgrowth of filamentous algae, and toxic cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae). Ecosystems can potentially adapt to disruptions of the normally utilized functional pathways by resorting to less energy-efficient pathways (Nature’s allostasis). Adaptability can be limited if the required additional energy is unavailable. Disruptions can, however, be potentially overcome by increasing the water’s levels of a proposed life force termed KELEA, an acronym for Kinetic Energy Limiting Electrostatic Attraction. One method of increasing KELEA is to use pulverized volcanic material heated to a partial melting temperature and then slowly cooled before being pelleted and marketed as Kiko Technology. Kiko pellets were successfully used with biochar to suppress the growth of blue-green algae in Spirit Lake, Iowa. Along with other indications of a more complete restoration of the lake’s ecosystem has been the apparent disintegration of some of the zebra mussels. This approach warrants immediate testing in other cyanobacteria and zebra mussel-contaminated waterways.Introduction and DiscussionZebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha ) are native to the Caspian and Black seas south of Russia and Ukraine [1]. They had spread to other parts of Europe in the 19th century as an invasive species. Zebra mussels were first identified in the United States in 1988, presumably being carried in the ballast water of international shipping [1]. Zebra mussels are now prevalent in most of the inland lakes and rivers in the upper Midwest region of the United States. Indeed, in 2023 it was estimated that the Great Lakes alone had 750 trillion zebra mussels, with further continuing spread well beyond the Midwest [2-3].Zebra mussels cause ecological damage primarily as secondary consequences of i) their consuming large numbers of phytoplankton and certain micro-invertebrates [4], ii) physically obstructing the inlets and outlets of metal pipes [5], and iii) structurally weakening support structures [6]. Unless abated, the estimated annual cost to the US economy due to Zebra mussels will exceed a billion dollars.There have been multiple approaches to reducing the number of zebra mussels. These include using a commercially available ionic copper-generating compound called EarthTec QZ , comprising copper sulfate pentahydrate [7]. Other chemical algaecides include hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), and niclosamide [8]. Biological control has been attempted using Pseudomonas fluorescens strain CL145A bacteria (Zequanox), which are toxic for Zebra mussels [9-10]. Certain crabs and crayfish can devour zebra mussels [11-12] Genetic control methods to suppress zebra mussels are also under investigation [13]. The physical removal of attached mussels and placing oxygen-impermeable mats onto the contaminated lakebeds (benthic zone) have been used to keep limited areas of lakes and rivers free of zebra mussels [14].Spirit Lake in Iowa extends to several adjacent backwater areas called sloughs (pronounced slews). Most of the lake’s sloughs, including the approximately 120-acre Sand Bar Slough, have been unfit for swimming, fishing, and even boating for many years because of their offensive odor and widespread growth of filamentous algae and toxin-producing cyanobacteria, commonly called blue-green algae [15].A foul-smelling, algae-contaminated narrow tributary connecting the Sand Bar Slough to Spirit Lake was treated by Mr. Steve Gruhn in late July 2023. Steve, who lives close to the Sand Bar Slough, employed a protocol comprising two water-permeable burlap bags, each containing six pellets of specially treated volcanic rock material mixed into approximately 20 lb. of biochar (supplied by 42-Biochar, Iowa). The pellets are manufactured by Kiko Technologies, headquartered in Hong Kong, SAR. They are formed by pulverizing a Japanese source of volcanic rock material, heating the material to the melting temperature of some of its components (approximately 1,150o Celsius), with subsequent slow cooling before pelleting. The cylindrical-shaped pellets measure approximately 8 mm in height and width (Figure 1).The algae in the tributary and the foul odor were eliminated within two days of adding biochar-containing Kiko pellets [16]. Upon revisiting the area 10 weeks later, there was no easily visible algae throughout the slough. More impressive, a beaver had built a dam near the tributary where the biochar and pellets had been placed. Indeed, one of the burlap bags had been dragged onto the beaver’s dam. This observation was remarkable since Steve had not seen such beaver activity within the region for several decades. Additional novel observations at the time were recently constructed muskrat mounds, sounds of bullfrogs, and ducks on the water [16].Based on this success, additional investigators have treated multiple areas of Spirit Lake and the adjoining Okoboji Lake. Smaller amounts of biochar (1-5 lb.) containing only 5 Kiko pellets have generally been used. Eight ounces of a mineral and amino acid-rich water conditioner, abbreviated MWC, have also been added to each treated water region. As reported elsewhere, there have been continuing, remarkable improvements in aquatic, land, and flying wildlife around the entire Spirit Lake (17-21). These improvements have now extended to recently treated areas of Okoboji Lake.As first noticed in December 2023, substantial amounts of zebra mussel shells were present along some of Spirit Lake’s shoreline near a treated area (Figure 2A). In addition to intact shells, a surprisingly large amount of coarse granulated material was present along with intact shells (Figure 2B). This appearance differed significantly from that of predominantly intact zebra mussel shells that have washed onto the shoreline of Spirit Lake in prior years. Examples of predominantly intact shells are seen in archived photos posted in prior years on the Internet by the Spirit Lake Protective Association (Figure 3). The relative infrequency of intact shells in the December 2003 photographs is consistent with shell disintegration.This conclusion was supported during a recent visit by the author to Spirit Lake. Multiple examples of predominantly broken shells submerged near the shoreline were readily seen. Samples were collected by hand, and the larger shell fragments were later photographed (Figure 4A). There were many additional, much smaller shell pieces. Moreover, the larger fragments could be easily crushed into a powdered form. By contrast, Figure 4B shows intact zebra mussel shells collected by Mr. Gruhn from the shoreline of Spirit Lake over a year earlier. These shells are not compressible by hand into powder or easily fragmented. Zebra mussel shells also retained their overall shape even a year after being included in gardening soil.When submerged in water, Kiko pellets increase the water’s level of KELEA, an acronym for Kinetic Energy Limiting Electrostatic Attraction. KELEA is viewed as the life force that preceded and led to the subsequent development of photosynthesis and food metabolism [22-27]. Providing sufficient KELEA is available, an ecosystem can forego using an impaired functional pathway by adapting to a more energy-requiring functional pathway, a process referred to as Nature’s Allostasis [17-21]. Ecosystems go beyond their tipping points and become disordered when there is insufficient KELEA for allostasis. The effectiveness of increasing KELEA levels in reducing the levels of contaminating algae is possibly due to the resurgence of competing beneficial microbes. Biochar and MWC are likely contributing to the proposed preferential growth of the beneficial microbes. The beneficial microbes are thought to create improved conditions for the further stepwise progressive resurgence of the higher life forms typical of the Spirit Lake ecosystem. Fishermen have informally reported higher than usual catching of yellow perch fish and the more frequent appearance of crayfish in Spirit Lake, both predatory to zebra mussels [27-28].Although no direct measurements exist for the inferred reduction in zebra mussels in Spirit Lake, the KELEA-restored Spirit Lake is now seemingly a less-than-ideal terrain for their survival. Reminiscent of the Bechamp-Pasteur debate (29), zebra mussel invasion may not solely depend on the mussels’ presence but on altered ecological conditions. This is an easily testable hypothesis using various means of increasing KELEA in contaminated waterways.Acknowledgment. Mr. James Osugi Chairman of Kiko Technology Limited, registered in Hong Kong SAR, provided the Kiko pellets and directions for their use. Mr. Steve Gruhn is an executive in the corporation that provided the 42-biochar. Mr. Dave Sybesma of D&K Investments supplied the mineral water conditioner and other components as a standardized kit. . Research on KELEA for ecosystem restoration is supported by MI Hope Inc., a non-profit public charity. One of the missions of MI Hope Inc. is to help in the compiling and reporting of data relating to clinical, agricultural, and industrial applications of KELEA. Information on KELEA is available in the cited references.ReferencesKaratayev AY, Burlakova LE (2022) What we know and don’t know about the invasive zebra (Dreissena polymorpha ) and quagga (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis ) mussels. Hydrobiologia 13:1-74.Lavey K (2017) How do you get rid of 750 trillion mussels? Lansing State Journal. Feb. 22.Morningstar CR, Kočovský PM, Colvin ME, Counihan TD, Wesley M. Daniel WM et al. (2024) Zebra and Quagga mussels in the United States—Dreissenid mussel research by the U.S. Geological Survey.USGS Publications Warehouse. Report fs20243009Alan E. Wilson, (2003)Effects of zebra mussels on phytoplankton and ciliates: a field mesocosm experiment, Journal of Plankton Research . 25(8):905–915Larson JH, Bailey SW, Evans MA (2022) Biofouling of a unionid mussel by dreissenid mussels in nearshore zones of the Great Lakes.Ecol. Evol.  12(12): e9557.Benson, A. J., Raikow, D., Larson, J., Fusaro, A., & Bogdanoff, A. K. (2013). Dreissena polymorpha. USGS nonindigenous aquatic species database . Gainesville, FL.R. Claudi, D. Hammond, S. Mastitsky (2023)Dose-mortality relationship for quagga and zebra mussels exposed to EarthTec QZ ionic copper: preliminary findings, Management of Biological Invasions . 14(4):695-708.Matthew T. Barbour, Justin R. Schueller, Todd J. Severson, Jeremy K. Wise, Matthew J. Meulemans, James A. Luoma, Diane L. Waller (2021) Concentration addition and independent action assessments of the binary mixtures of four toxicants on zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) mortality. Aquatic Toxicology 238:105935Molloy DP, Mayer DA, Gaylo MJ, Morse JT, Presti KT, Sawyko PM, Karatayev AY, Burlakova LE, Laruelle F, Nishikawa KC, Griffin BH (2013). Pseudomonas fluorescens strain CL145A - a biopesticide for the control of zebra and quagga mussels (Bivalvia: Dreissenidae). J Invertebr Pathol . 113(1):104-14.Meehan S., Gruber B., Lucy F (2014) Zebra mussel control using Zequanox® in an Irish waterway. Manag. Biol. Invasion.  5:279–286Kusku H (2021) Biological control of invasive zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) in a freshwater ecosystem through Potamon ibericum.Aquat. Res. 5(1):11-19.Goote P, Bergman D (2011) Using Crayfish to Control Zebra Mussel Populations. Grand Valley State University, Students Summer Scholars Manuscripts . 82Hernández Elizárraga VH, Ballantyne S, O’Brien LG, Americo JA, Suhr ST et al. (2023) Toward invasive mussel genetic biocontrol: Approaches, challenges, and perspectives. iScience 26(10):108027.Wittmann, M.E., S. Candra, J.E. Reuter, G.S. Schladow, B.C. Allen and J. Webb. 2012. The control of an invasive bivalve, Corbicula fluminea , using gas impermeable benthic barriers in a large natural lake. Environmental Management. 49 (6): 1163-1173.Singh PK, Kumar, A, Singh VK, Shrivastava AK, (2020) Advances in Cyanobacterial Biology . Elsevier, Amsterdam. pp 403.Martin WJ (2024) KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction) stimulated alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway can restore Allostasis in heavily polluted collections of water with secondary benefits to birds and land animals, MOJ Eco Environ Sc.i  9(1): 18-22.Martin WJ (2024) Reinvigorating Polluted Water Ecosystems with KELEA (Kinetic Energy Limiting Electrostatic Attraction) in Combination with Biochar and Water Supplement. Environmental Analysis & Ecology Studies . 11(5):1353-1356.Martin WJ 2024 KELEA assisted restoration of Nature’s Allostasis (KARNA). Environ. Anal Eco Stud. 11(5):1357-1361.Martin WJ (2024) KELEA Restoring of Nature’s Allostasis as a low-cost alternative to using chemicals in agriculture. Mod Tech Agri Horti Sci,  3(1):1-5.Martin WJ (2024) Nature’s Allostasis to Disordered Water Ecosystems with KELEA - Kinetic Energy Limiting Electrostatic Attraction.Authorea April 29.Martin WJ (2024) Progressive improvements of water ecosystems by assisting Nature’s Allostasis with KELEA - Kinetic Energy Limiting Electrostatic Attraction. Abstract 1503877, Poster 217-145. Presented at WaterSciCon24 . June 24-27.Martin WJ (2014) Stealth Adapted Viruses; Alternative Cellular Energy (ACE) & KELEA Activated Water. Author House, Bloomington IN USA pp321.Martin WJ (2015) KELEA activation of water and other fluids for health, agriculture and industry. J. Water Resources and Protection 7(16):1331-1344Martin WJ (2015) KELEA: A natural energy that seemingly reduces intermolecular hydrogen bonding in water and other liquids. Open Journal of Biophysics. 5(3):69Martin WJ (2017) The many biological functions of the alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway. Int J Complement Alt Med. 7(5): 00237.Martin WJ (2017) Is KELEA (kinetic energy limiting electrostatic attraction) a source of chemical energy? MOJ Biorg. Org. Chem.  1(2):54‒58.Martin WJ (2020) Enhancing the alternative cellular energy (ACE) pathway with KELEA activated water as therapy for infectious diseases.Infectious Disorders – Drug Targets  21(3): 214-219Martin GW, Corkum LD (1994) Predation of Zebra mussels by crayfish.Canadian J Zoology 72(11):1876-1871.Morrison, TW, Lynch WE, Dabrowski K (1997) Predation on Zebra mussels by freshwater drum and yellow perch in Western Lake Erie. J. Great Lakes Research. 23 (2):177-189.Hume ED (1923) Bechamp or Pasteur?: A Lost Chapter in the History of Biology. Covici, Chicago. pp 296.

A document by Katie Murray. Click on the document to view its contents.

Understanding seed germination phenology is crucial for predicting plant responses to environmental changes. However, a substantial gap persists regarding how microclimatic conditions influence germination in seasonal ecosystems. We conducted a continuous seasonal experiment with fresh seeds to investigate germination phenology in 54 species from temperate and Mediterranean alpine communities. Using field microclimatic data series, we mimicked fellfield and snowbed conditions in growth chambers and we carried out field sowing experiments. Both communities showed similar phenology responses to microclimatic variation, finding a consistent germination delay in snowbed compared to fellfield conditions. This effect was complemented by reduced dormancy and increased autumn germination in Mediterranean seeds. Our results suggest a predictable phenological shift in the germination of alpine plants along microclimatic gradients. In warmer conditions with reduced snow cover, alpine species are expected to anticipate germination 52 days on average, with potential disrupting effects on cold-adapted plant communities.

Spray drying can generate very fine powders for inhalable drugs and improve the bio-availability of solid dosage drugs using amorphous solid dispersion. However, spray drying is quite challenging to optimize and scale up. Many interacting parameters have a considerable impact on the product yield, residual solvent content, and particle size. We have demonstrated a novel model-aided workflow to optimize and transfer the process across three different Spray dryers for a sticky product. The material produced in this work has a very low Glass transition temperature resulting in adhesion of the product to the wall. Mechanistic models and CFD models have been developed across three different pieces of equipment. Mathematical models have been used to understand & optimize the impact of operating conditions on the product yield across the scale. The understanding developed using the workflow has enabled the production of API with greater than 80% yield across the scales.

Objective: Exploring the evolving geographical distribution pattern of Tetracentron sinense and its main influencing factors since the last interglacial can provide a scientific foundation for the efficient conservation and administration of the species. Methods: The MaxEnt model was used to construct the potential distribution areas of T. sinense in different periods such as the last interglacial, the last glacial maximum, the Mid-Holocene, the current and future. On the premise of discussing the influence of dominant environmental factors on its distribution model, the suitable area changes of T. sinense under different ecological climate situations were quantitatively analyzed. Results: The AUC value predicted by the optimized model was 0.959, indicating a good predictive effect by the MaxEnt model; the potential suitable areas for T. sinense in the current are mainly located in southwest China, which are wider compared to the actual habitats. Jackknife testing showed that the lowest temperature in the coldest month, elevation, seasonal variation coefficient of temperature and surface calcium carbonate content are the dominant environmental factors affecting the distribution of T. sinense. From the last interglacial to the current, the total suitable area of T. sinense showed a decreasing trend; the distribution points of T. sinense populations in Mid-Holocene may be the origin of the postglacial population, and Southwest China may be its glacial biological refuge. Compared with the current, the total suitable area ranges of T. sinense in China in the future decreased, and the centroid location of its total fitness area all migrated to the northwest, with the largest migration distance in 2070s under the SSPs 7.0 climate scenario. Conclusion: Temperature was the most important factor affecting the distribution of T. sinense. With the global warming, its suitable area ranges will show a shrinking trend. Ex-situ conservation measures could be taken to preserve its germplasm resources.

Butterflies are one of the most significant insect indicators of environmental balance. They help with pollination and the food chain. However, they are also equally sensitive to their food and habitat. This study explores the status and diversity of these insect by comparing forest, grassland, and human settlement habitats in Vijaypur area of Dharan, eastern Nepal. Altogether, 882 individuals of 52 species belonging to 6 families were recorded. Pieridae is the most abundant with 20 species and Riodinidae is the least abundant, with only 1 species. Forest is found to be the most diverse habitat, with the highest species richness but a lower species abundance, potentially due to resource availability in the grassland and human settlement. Grassland habitat had the lowest species richness but the highest abundance. These results suggested that undisturbed habitats have higher richness values, while disturbed habitats have a higher abundance. Various anthropogenic activities have altered the natural habitats of butterflies. Suitable research studies and conservation management are required in this region.

Aim: This study aims to investigate the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with subclinical and overt hypothyroidism at a tertiary care center in Northern India. Additionally, it seeks to establish the correlation between NAFLD and hypothyroidism, focusing on the different grades of fatty liver and the degree of hepatic stiffness. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted on patients presenting with hypothyroidism. The sample included individuals diagnosed with subclinical or overt hypothyroidism. NAFLD was assessed using ultrasonography, and hepatic stiffness was measured using transient elastography. Patients were categorized based on the severity of NAFLD and the extent of liver stiffness. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the correlation between hypothyroidism severity, fatty liver grades, and hepatic stiffness. Results: The study found a high prevalence of NAFLD among patients with hypothyroidism. The prevalence was significantly higher in patients with overt hypothyroidism compared to those with subclinical hypothyroidism. There was a positive correlation between the severity of hypothyroidism and the grades of fatty liver. Increased hepatic stiffness was observed in patients with higher levels of TSH, indicating a progression toward more severe liver conditions. Serum free thyroxine (FT4) levels were inversely related to the prevalence and severity of NAFLD. Discussion: The findings suggest that hypothyroidism, particularly in its overt form, is a significant risk factor for NAFLD. The correlation between decreased FT4 levels and increased NAFLD prevalence underscores the importance of thyroid function in lipid metabolism and liver health. These results highlight the need for routine screening for NAFLD in patients with hypothyroidism and suggest that managing thyroid dysfunction could be crucial in preventing and treating NAFLD. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms linking these conditions and to develop targeted therapeutic strategies.

OBESITY AS A MISLEADING FACTOR IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS: A CASE REPORTOlgierd Dróżdż1, Wiktoria Bińczyk1, Bartosz Siudek2, Katarzyna Błaszczyszyn1, Filip Jan Grajnert3, Michalina Zofia Grzelka3, Maciej Rabczyński11Department and Clinic of Diabetology and Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Wrocław, Poland2T. Marciniak Specialist Hospital, Wrocław, Poland34th Military Clinical Hospital, Wrocław, PolandCorresponding author: Wiktoria Bińczyk, wiktoria.binczyk98@gmail.comAuthors:Olgierd Dróżdż, Medical DoctorOlgierd.drozdz@gmail.comDepartment and Clinic of Diabetology and Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, 50-556 Wrocław, PolandWiktoria Bińczyk, Medical Doctorwiktoria.binczyk98@gmail.comDepartment and Clinic of Diabetology and Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, 50-556 Wrocław, PolandBartosz Siudek, Medical DoctorBartosz.siudek98@gmail.comT. Marciniak Specialist Hospital, 54-049 Wrocław, PolandKatarzyna Błaszczyszyn, Medical Doctork.blaszczyszynn@gmail.comDepartment and Clinic of Diabetology and Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, 50-556 Wrocław, PolandFilip Jan Grajnert, Medical Doctorf.grajnert@icloud.com4th Military Clinical Hospital, 53-114 Wrocław, PolandMichalina Zofia Grzelka, Medical Doctormichalinagrzelka1@gmail.com4th Military Clinical Hospital, 53-114 Wrocław, PolandMaciej Rabczyński, Medical Doctormaciej.rabczynski@umw.edu.plDepartment and Clinic of Diabetology and Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, 50-556 Wrocław, Poland

INTRODUCTION: Mental health conditions are prevalent among university students, putting them at elevated risk for dropout. Universities offer an array of peer programs, and students often share their concerns with peers before professionals. A well-specified peer intervention to help sustain academic persistence that colleges can directly offer their undergraduates with mental health conditions should benefit this population. The Peer Academic Supports for Success coaching model was developed to address this need. OBJECTIVE: This study’s goal was to conduct a feasibility study of the Peer Academic Supports for Success model and feasibility of randomized controlled trial research methods. METHODS: Seventy-two undergraduate students with academically impairing mental health conditions were randomized to receive Peer Academic Supports for Success versus an active control condition. Survey data were collected at baseline and at the end of the next two semesters. Official transcripts were obtained. Intervention implementation data were assessed through coach and participant report. RESULTS: Peer Academic Supports for Success was delivered with fidelity, successfully attracted and retained students, and was safe. Randomized controlled trial methods proved feasible. Findings revealed significant treatment effects on several of the targeted proximal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest Peer Academic Supports for Success is a promising university-based intervention to support young adult students with mental health conditions and should be tested in a robust clinical trial.

The Changbai Mountains, stretching an impressive 1,300 kilometers in length and 400 kilometers in width, renowned for their typical mountain forest ecosystem in East Asia. However, there is still an incomplete understanding of the seasonal dynamics of macrofungi communities in forests. For this study, 17 investigation sites were utilized, comprising 219 samples. The aim was to explore the relationships between macrofungi composition and tree species, season, terrain, and climate in the northeast China. In all plots, 11,593 specimens were obtained and 1,392 species were identified. While the macrofungal composition (macrofungi types and functional groups) remains consistent across various forest vegetation types, seasons, and regions, we finding revealed that variations among dominant tree species (Q. mongolica), Primary season (July and August) and Major mountains (Southern and Northern Branches of Changbai Mountains), there is a strong aggregation in the community structure and distribution of macrofungi. It is observed that the presence of Q. mongolica in the forest positively correlates with an increase in the abundance and diversity of macrofungi, especially ectomycorrhizal fungi. The seasonal dynamics revealed that the distribution of ectomycorrhizal fungi (31.9%), wood-rotting fungi (9.77%), and soil-rotting fungi (13.15%) were the predominant types in the Q. mongolica forest, with the highest species abundance observed in August and July. Moreover, the similarity of species decreased as the transition occurred from the main branches of the Changbai mountainous range to the remnant branches. Our findings indicate an ecological trade-off, wherein the primary taxa of macrofungi exhibit comparable seasonal distributions and habitat selectivity. Given the significance of forest type and trees as influential factors in fungal community diversity and richness, it is imperative to investigate various macrofungal distribution patterns in forests as a research priority to guide conservation efforts in the Changbai Mountains. These would be beneficial in preserving the diversity of macrofungal communities.

5-methylcytosine (m 5C) is a widely known epigenetic moderation in RNA types. Methyltransferases catalyze the genesis of m5C. This site of RNA plays a crucial role in many biological activities. For many years in DNA, the synthetic process and biological role of m 5C sites have remained the concentrating domain for researchers. Recently, many characters of RNA m 5C sites have been discovered, but it is still considered in their infancy. The accurate and systematic detection and classification of m 5C remains a challenging task. The existence of m 5C sites shows a thriving role in numerous organic activities. Machine learning techniques are alternatives to laboratory experiments, which will ease the m 5C site’s identification in Homo sapiens. This article presents a novel computational model named m 5C-TNkmer to extract RNA sequences. The model is enriched with the k-mer feature extraction technique. Four subdatasets of the primary data set are created: DNC, TNC, tetra-NC, and penta-NC. The results highlighted that m 5C-TNKmers achieved 96.15% accuracy. The suggested technique is a talented one that will help scientists correctly identify RNA m 5C sites and their modification. It provides a clue to better understanding genetic function and controlling roles.

Optimal cognitive development in toddlers is crucial for lifelong learning, yet few studies have examined its link with healthy lifestyle behaviors. This study aimed to investigate the associations between energy balance-related behaviors (EBRBs) and cognitive development among toddlers aged 12 to 36 months. A total of 344 children participated in the study. Standardized procedures were used to collect anthropometric measurements, including length and weight, to calculate Body Mass Index, BMI (kg/m²), and categorize each child based on BMI z-scores. Cognitive and motor development were assessed using Bayley-III assessment. Sedentary screen time and sleep duration were reported by parents using the Tayside Children’s Sleep Questionnaire, while fruit and vegetable intake were recorded through a two-day dietary record. Parents provided information on children’s sex, date of birth, and family socioeconomic status. EBRBs included motor development as a surrogate for physical activity, sedentary screen time, sleep duration, and fruit and vegetable consumption. Generalized linear models were employed to examine the associations between EBRBs and cognitive development. Findings showed that toddlers following at least two EBRBs had significantly higher cognitive development (B=14.146; 95% CI: 7.079, 24.212). We recommend future strategies prioritize promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors from early childhood to boost cognitive development.

Intravesical Colistin bladder irrigation for multidrug-resistant urinary tract infection in critically ill patients with renal compromised: Single-center case series from Nepal.Authors: Saroj Poudel1, Bikash Khadka1, Kishor Khanal1, Anup Ghimire1, Ashim Regmi2, Shirish KC3, Rohini Nepal3 on behalf of Doctors on Wheels^1 Department of Critical Care Medicine, Nepal Mediciti Hospital, Lalitpur, Nepal2 Department of Critical Care Medicine, Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai, UAE3 Department of Clinical Research, Doctors on Wheels, Kathmandu, Nepalthe article