Religious tourism holds a significant place in travel experiences, particularly at monasteries, where visitors often encounter profound emotional experiences. This study aims to investigate the emotional experiences and place attachment of religious tourism at monasteries in Serbia, utilizing quantitative methods and an online survey approach. Through an online survey administered to visitors of Serbian monasteries, this study seeks to quantify and analyze the emotional experiences and two-dimensional place attachments reported by participants during their sacred journeys. The survey instrument includes measures to understand place attachment through place dependence and place identity, satisfaction, emotional experience, and destination loyalty under one framework. Additionally, demographic variables will be examined to identify potential differences in emotional experiences and place attachment among different visitor groups. The results indicate that place attachment is influenced by emotional experience and satisfaction, which further influences destination loyalty. The findings of this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of the destination loyalty and place attachment aspects of religious tourism at Serbian monasteries, providing valuable insights for tourism management and destination marketing efforts. Full article

Objective: The primary objective of this research is to conduct a systematic review of the available studies and evidence to determine if there is a significant relationship between otosclerosis and psychiatric disorders. By critically evaluating the existing data, this study aims to provide insights into the potential interplay between these medical conditions. Data Sources: PubMed, Embase, Ebsco, Proquest, and Web of Science Review Methods: PubMed, Embase, Ebsco, Proquest, and Web of Science databases were queried for original English articles from 1950 to 2023. This review was conducted in accordance with the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. The publications were screened by two independent viewers. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale quality instrument was used to assess the quality of studies. Results: Initially, 153 abstracts were screened for eligibility. After a rigorous selection process, five studies met the criteria, collectively encompassing 262 patients diagnosed with otosclerosis. The reported mean ages ranged from 25 to 52 years. A combined assessment of psychiatric disorder rates among otosclerosis patients revealed a rate of 36%. Depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia were the most common mental illnesses reported in all six studies. One of the studies specifically examined psychiatric disorder rates before and after stapedectomy, revealing a statistically significant decrease in depressive and anxiety-related symptoms following the surgical intervention. Conclusions: This systematic review emphasizes the emerging evidence connecting otosclerosis with psychiatric disorders and underscores the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary approach to assess and manage otosclerosis patients. Full article

This study investigated the reliability of measuring the median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) at the carpal tunnel inlet using a handheld ultrasound device (HUD) compared to a standard ultrasound system, focusing on intra- and inter-operator reproducibility among novice and expert operators. Employing a prospective cross-sectional design, 37 asymptomatic adults were assessed using both devices, with measurements taken by an expert with over five years of experience and a novice with less than six months. The CSA was determined using manual tracing and ellipse methods, with reproducibility evaluated through intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and agreement assessed via Bland–Altman plots. Results showed a high degree of agreement between the devices, with excellent intra-operator reproducibility (ICC > 0.80) for the expert, and moderate reproducibility for the novice (ICCs ranging from 0.539 to 0.841). Inter-operator reliability was generally moderate, indicating acceptable consistency across different experience levels. The study concludes that HUDs are comparable to standard ultrasound systems for assessing median nerve CSA in asymptomatic subjects, with both devices providing reliable measurements. This supports the use of HUDs in diverse clinical environments, particularly where access to traditional ultrasound is limited. Further research with a larger sample and symptomatic patients is recommended to validate these findings. Full article

Bioinspired structural color represents a burgeoning field that draws upon principles, strategies, and concepts derived from biological systems to inspire the design of novel technologies or products featuring reversible color changing mechanisms, with significant potential applications for camouflage, sensors, anticounterfeiting, etc. This mini-review focuses specifically on the research progress of bioinspired structural color in the realm of camouflage. Firstly, it discusses fundamental mechanisms of coloration in biological systems, encompassing pigmentation, structural coloration, fluorescence, and bioluminescence. Subsequently, it delineates three modulation strategies—namely, photonic crystals, film interference, and plasmonic modulation—that contribute to the development of bioinspired structural color materials or devices. Moreover, the review critically assesses the integration of bioinspired structural color materials with environmental contexts, with a particular emphasis on their application in camouflage. Finally, the paper outlines persisting challenges and suggests future development trends in the camouflage field via bioinspired structural color. Full article

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the research of photoswitchable probes. These probes undergo reversible structural and electronic changes upon light exposure, thus exhibiting vast potential in molecular detection, biological imaging, material science, and information storage. Through precisely engineered molecular structures, the photoswitchable probes can toggle between “on” and “off” states at specific wavelengths, enabling highly sensitive and selective detection of targeted analytes. This review systematically presents photoswitchable fluorescent and colorimetric probes built on various molecular photoswitches, primarily focusing on the types involving photoswitching in their detection and/or signal response processes. It begins with an analysis of various molecular photoswitches, including their photophysical properties, photoisomerization and photochromic mechanisms, and fundamental design concepts for constructing photoswitchable probes. The article then elaborates on the applications of these probes in detecting diverse targets, including cations, anions, small molecules, and biomacromolecules. Finally, it offers perspectives on the current state and future development of photoswitchable probes. This review aims to provide a clear introduction for researchers in the field and guidance for the design and application of new, efficient fluorescent and colorimetric probes. Full article

We present a routing model called adapted diffusion for ad hoc wireless sensor networks that is more energy efficient than directed diffusion. Adapted diffusion is modeled using NetLogo with agent-based modeling. In this agent-based NetLogo model, we set the distance from a random source and the distance from the sink to optimize the routing protocols. By using this routing technique significant energy savings were achieved. We consider a three-dimensional communication network that can be used in a building or a stack of shipping containers. Our model can be extended to a 3D model. Full article

Augmented reality (AR) is a promising technology to enhance image guided surgery and represents the perfect bridge to combine precise virtual planning with computer-aided execution of surgical maneuvers in the operating room. In craniofacial surgical oncology, AR brings to the surgeon’s sight a digital, three-dimensional representation of the anatomy and helps to identify tumor boundaries and optimal surgical paths. Intraoperatively, real-time AR guidance provides surgeons with accurate spatial information, ensuring accurate tumor resection and preservation of critical structures. In this paper, the authors review current evidence of AR applications in craniofacial surgery, focusing on real surgical applications, and compare existing literature with their experience during an AR and navigation guided craniofacial resection, to subsequently analyze which technological trajectories will represent the future of AR and define new perspectives of application for this revolutionizing technology. Full article

Purpose: Stretch-induced force deficit suggests an acute stretch-specific strength capacity loss, which is commonly attributed to EMG reductions. Since those deficits could also be attributed to general fatigue induced by overloading the muscle, this study aimed to compare stretching with an exhausting calf raise programme to compare strength and stretching responses. Method: This study included 16 participants with different, high-duration calf muscle stretching effects (10, 20, 30 min of stretching) with resistance training (RT) (3 × 12 repetitions) performed until muscle failure, by using a cross-over study design with pre-post comparisons. Strength was tested via isometric plantar flexor diagnostics, while flexibility was assessed using the knee-to-wall test (KtW) and an isolated goniometer test. Results: Using a three-way ANOVA, RT strength decreases were greater compared to 10 and 20 min of stretching (p = 0.01–0.02), but similar to those of 30 min of stretching. ROM in the KtW showed no specific stretch-induced increases, while only the stretching conditions enhanced isolated tested ROM (p < 0.001–0.008). No RT-related isolated ROM increases were observed. Conclusions: The results showed both interventions had similar effects on strength and ROM in the calf muscles. More holistic explanatory approaches such as fatigue and warm-up are discussed in the manuscript and call for further research. Full article

There is increasing evidence about the role of inflammation in sarcopenia and tumor progression; thus, its modulation would represent a valuable strategy for improving clinical outcomes in patients with cancer. Several studies have reported that whey protein has significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics in humans. We aimed to evaluate the effects of whey protein-based oral nutritional support on circulating cytokines in patients with solid tumors undergoing systemic treatment. Forty-six patients with solid tumors of different origin and undergoing systemic treatment were evaluated. Nutritional support with two daily whey protein-based oral supplements was administered. Circulating levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MCP-1 and IP-10 were determined. Nutritional evaluation included anthropometric, instrumental and biochemical parameters. Over 63% of the evaluated patients underwent surgery, 56.5% required chemotherapy and almost 50% received combined treatment. Patients with resected primary tumor presented with lower baseline IL-6 (p < 0.05) and IP-10 (p < 0.001); after three months of nutritional support, they presented with lower IL-8 (p < 0.05) and tended to present lower IL-6 and IP-10 (p = 0.053 and 0.067, respectively). Significant positive correlations between circulating cytokines, C-reactive protein and ferritin were observed; similarly, negative correlations with anthropometric and biochemical nutritional parameters were noticed (p < 0.05). We did not observe significant changes in circulating cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MCP-1 and IP-10) in patients with cancer undergoing systemic treatment after three months of nutritional support with whey protein-based oral supplements. According to a univariate analysis in our cohort, circulating IL-8 was associated with mortality in these patients, additionally, MCP-1 and IP-10 tended to correlate; but an age- and sex-adjusted multivariate analysis revealed that only baseline MCP-1 was significantly associated with mortality (OR 1.03 (95% CI: 1.00–1.05)). In conclusion, surgery of the primary solid tumor and combination treatment allow significant reduction in circulating cytokine levels, which remained stable while patients received nutritional support with whey protein-based oral supplements over three months. The role of MCP-1 as an independent factor for mortality in these patients should be further evaluated. Full article

In this study, the optimization problem for controlling the pivot steering function of tracked vehicles is addressed. Firstly, kinematic modeling of the pivot steering process of tracked vehicles is conducted. Secondly, the control system of tracked vehicles is decoupled, and PID control algorithms for vehicle speed and yaw rate are separately designed. Furthermore, the parameters of the PID controllers are optimized using the Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm. Finally, by constructing a joint simulation model using Matlab/Simulink + RecurDyn (V9R4), the simulation results indicate that the above control algorithm can effectively improve the tracking speed of tracked vehicles on vehicle speed and yaw rate under the pivot steering condition, quickly respond to the driver’s driving intention, and ensure the stability of the pivot steering process, providing an effective basis for further research on the pivot steering function of tracked vehicles. Full article

In this paper, we characterize trees with a strong secure domination number less than or equal to 4 and compute this parameter for certain classes of graphs. Also, we investigate bounds for the strong secure domination number of vertex gluing of two graphs. Full article

Sustainable development is a very important and highly debated concept worldwide, with almost all states around the globe recognizing the importance of supporting a balancing of economic, social and ecological plans to create a more prosperous and equitable world. The purpose of the current study is to identify the current context of the progress achieved by the EU member states regarding the 17 sustainable development objectives. Following the implemented research, it was found that Romania is one of the countries with the lowest performance, so an attempt was made to make a short-term forecast in the case of this country in order to determine its future course. In this sense, the Holt–Winters trend methods were used, which are based on historical data to predict future values. According to the analysis carried out, the predicted values are mainly encouraging, but it is necessary for the competent authorities to become more involved because, in many aspects, Romania is at the bottom of the European Union (EU) ranking regarding the analyzed indicators. Full article

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication and behavior. Current pharmacological options are limited and feature significant side effects. In this study, we conducted a retrospective, observational, and cross-sectional cohort study to evaluate the effects of Cannabidiol (CBD)-dominant, full-spectrum cannabis extract, containing Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in a ratio of 33:1 (CBD:THC), on non-syndromic children and adolescents (5–18 years old) with moderate to severe ASD. Thirty volunteers were recruited, underwent neuropsychological evaluations and were treated with individualized doses of CBD-dominant extract. Clinical assessments were conducted by the designated clinician. Additionally, parents or caregivers were independently interviewed to assess perceived treatment effects. We found significant improvements in various symptomatic and non-symptomatic aspects of ASD, with minimal untoward effects, as reported by both clinical assessments and parental perceptions. The observed improvements included increased communicative skills, attention, learning, eye contact, diminished aggression and irritability, and an overall increase in both the patient’s and family’s quality of life. Despite its limitations, our findings suggest that treatment with full-spectrum CBD-dominant extract may be a safe and effective option for core and comorbid symptoms of ASD, and it may also increase overall quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families. Full article

Non-IgE immune-mediated gastrointestinal disorders constitute a heterogeneous group of enigmatic conditions that are on the rise. This category encompasses entities like food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP), and food protein-induced enteropathy (FPE). These are immune-mediated reactions to certain foods without the involvement of allergen-specific IgE in their pathogenesis. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is also included in this group, acknowledged for its mixed IgE and non-IgE-mediated characteristics. The diagnostic landscape is fraught with challenges, given the poorly understood nature of these disorders and their propensity to manifest with varying and overlapping clinical presentations, typically emerging in infancy with common potential triggers such as cow’s milk and soy. Presently, confirmatory testing for most of these conditions is limited and invasive, emphasizing the pivotal role of a thorough history and physical examination in reaching a diagnosis. Notably, there are limited guidelines for diagnosis and management for most of these disorders. This article elucidates the key distinctions among these disorders, provides an overview of existing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and addresses existing knowledge and research gaps. The considerable impact on the quality of life of non-IgE immune-mediated allergic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, which can result in debilitating complications such as nutritional deficiencies, mental health disorders, and eating disorders, underscores the urgency for comprehensive exploration and management strategies. Full article

One of the practical obstacles limiting the use of cloud-based gamification applications is the lack of an Internet connection of adequate quality. In this paper, we describe a practical solution to this problem by the implementation of client-side gamification rule processing so that most events generated by players can be processed without the need to involve server-side functions; therefore, only a handful of data have to be transmitted to the server for global state synchronization, and only when an Internet connection is available. For this purpose, we adopt a simple textual gamification rule definition format, implement the rule parser and event processor, and evaluate the solution in terms of performance in experimental conditions. The obtained results are optimistic, showing that the developed solution can easily handle rule sets and event streams of realistic sizes. The solution is planned to be integrated into the next version of the FGPE gamified programming education platform. Full article

The astrocyte population, around 50% of human brain cells, plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and functionality of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are vital in orchestrating neuronal development by releasing synaptogenic molecules and eliminating excessive synapses. They also modulate neuronal excitability and contribute to CNS homeostasis, promoting neuronal survival by clearance of neurotransmitters, transporting metabolites, and secreting trophic factors. Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous and respond to CNS injuries and diseases through a process known as reactive astrogliosis, which can contribute to both inflammation and its resolution. Recent evidence has revealed remarkable alterations in astrocyte transcriptomes in response to several diseases, identifying at least two distinct phenotypes called A1 or neurotoxic and A2 or neuroprotective astrocytes. However, due to the vast heterogeneity of these cells, it is limited to classify them into only two phenotypes. This review explores the various physiological and pathophysiological roles, potential markers, and pathways that might be activated in different astrocytic phenotypes. Furthermore, we discuss the astrocyte heterogeneity in the main neurodegenerative diseases and identify potential therapeutic strategies. Understanding the underlying mechanisms in the differentiation and imbalance of the astrocytic population will allow the identification of specific biomarkers and timely therapeutic approaches in various neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

Assisting women in attaining their reproductive goals is crucial for improving the well-being of families and children. As the first point of contact for healthcare, general practitioners (GPs) are ideal for family planning (FP) and preconception care (PCC). However, primary care interventions’ efficacy is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine GPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives on FP and PCC service management. Most GPs were aware of FP and PCC services and held a firm conviction that they should be primarily accountable together with obstetrician–gynaecologists. However, it is worth noting that less than 50% of respondents reported receiving thorough and comprehensive knowledge of their respective specialities. Those with general medicine qualifications demonstrated a high level of commitment to providing such services. The women’s GPs and those with training in general medicine prescribed birth control pills and emergency contraception three times more frequently than the other doctors who suggested condoms or traditional methods or referred patients to another specialist (p < 0.05). In conclusion, PCC is of the utmost importance, and its effective implementation demands the collaboration of policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals. GPs are essential in managing FP and PCC. They must incorporate more in-depth PCC into their clinical practice. Full article

Visceral leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoa of the species Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum (syn = Leishmania chagasi) and Leishmania (Leishmania) donovani, which are transmitted by hematophagous insects of the genera Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus. The domestic dog (Canis familiaris) is considered the main urban reservoir of the parasite due to the high parasite load on its skin, serving as a source of infection for sandfly vectors and, consequently, perpetuating the disease in the urban environment. Some factors are considered important in the perpetuation and spread of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in urban areas, such as stray dogs, with their errant behavior, and houses that have backyards with trees, shade, and organic materials, creating an attractive environment for sandfly vectors. CVL is found in approximately 50 countries, with the number of infected dogs reaching millions. However, due to the difficulty of controlling and diagnosing the disease, the number of infected animals could be even greater. In the four continents endemic for CVL, there are reports of disease expansion in endemic countries such as Brazil, Italy, Morocco, and Tunisia, as well as in areas where CVL is not endemic, for example, Uruguay. Socio-environmental factors, such as migration, drought, deforestation, and global warming, have been pointed out as reasons for the expansion into areas where it had been absent. Thus, the objective of this review is to address (i) the distribution of CVL in endemic areas, (ii) the role of the dog in the visceral leishmaniasis epidemiology and the factors that influence dog infection and the spread of the disease, and (iii) the challenges faced in the control of CVL. Full article

Elizabethkingia anophelis MSU001, isolated from Anopheles stephensi in the laboratory, was characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF/MS), biochemical testing, and genome sequencing. Average nucleotide identity analysis revealed 99% identity with the type species E. anophelis R26. Phylogenetic placement showed that it formed a clade with other mosquito-associated strains and departed from a clade of clinical isolates. Comparative genome analyses further showed that it shared at least 98.6% of genes with mosquito-associated isolates (except E. anophelis As1), while it shared at most 88.8% of common genes with clinical isolates. Metabolites from MSU001 significantly inhibited growth of E. coli but not the mosquito gut symbionts Serratia marcescens and Asaia sp. W12. Insect-associated E. anophelis carried unique glycoside hydrolase (GH) and auxiliary activities (AAs) encoding genes distinct from those of clinical isolates, indicating their potential role in reshaping chitin structure and other components involved in larval development or formation of the peritrophic matrix. Like other Elizabethkingia, MSU001 also carried abundant genes encoding two-component system proteins (51), transcription factor proteins (188), and DNA-binding proteins (13). E. anophelis MSU001 contains a repertoire of antibiotic resistance genes and several virulence factors. Its potential for opportunistic infections in humans should be further evaluated prior to implementation as a paratransgenesis agent (by transgenesis of a symbiont of the vector). Full article

We discuss how the dual-wavelength differential detection (DWDD) of fiber Bragg grating sensors can be used to build standardized high-resolution, high-accuracy, large-measurement-range, multichannel instruments and associated sensors. We analyze the system resolution and experimentally show that the high signal-to-noise ratio can allow the design of sensors with a ratio of range to resolution superior to 14 bits, and temperature measurement ranges of more than 180 °C. We propose a scheme for real-time signal correction to cancel the drift of the instrument using two internal reference sensors, and a calibration method using centralized golden sensors that allows traceability to international standards for all instruments and sensors, allowing the creation of a global sensor/instrument ecosystem. Full article

Background/Objectives: To determine whether a sitting position with the femoral heads centered into the acetabulum is more effective than the usual sitting position in preventing migration percentage progression in non-ambulatory children with bilateral cerebral palsy. Methods: This was a multicenter, randomized controlled trial. Inclusion criteria: spastic or dyskinetic cerebral palsy, Gross Motor Function Classification System level IV-V, age 1–6 years, migration percentage <41%, and informed consent. Exclusion criteria: contractures affecting the hip, anterior luxation, previous hip surgery, and lumbar scoliosis. The treatment group sat with their hips significantly abducted to reduce the head into the acetabulum in a customized system for at least five hours/day for two years. Controls sat with the pelvis and lower limbs aligned but the hips less abducted in an adaptive seating system. The primary outcome was migration percentage (MP) progression. Health-related quality of life and family satisfaction were among the secondary outcomes. The study was approved by the local ethics board and conducted in accordance with CONSORT reporting guidelines. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04603625. Results: Overall median MP progression was 1.6 after the first year and 2.5 after the second year. No significant differences were observed between the groups. MP exceeded 40% and 50% in 1.8% and 0% of the experimental group and 5.4% and 3.6% of controls in years 1 and 2, respectively. Both groups expressed satisfaction with the postural system and stable health-related quality of life. Conclusions: MP remained stable over the two-year period in both groups. Considering outliers which progressed over 50%, a more protective trend of the hip-centering sitting approach emerged, but this needs to be confirmed in a final, larger dataset. Full article