Search Results (9,387)

Nitrogen (N) plays a decisive role in the growth and yield of crops. Hence, a high maize grain yield depends upon substantial N inputs. In the present study, morphological traits and yield components, grain yield, rain use efficiency (RUE), and N partial factor productivity (NPFP) were analyzed in two maize hybrids (ZP666 and NS6030) for 2 yr using four N rates (0 (N0), 60 (N60), 120 (N120), and 180 (N180) kg N ha⁻¹). In a climatically more favorable year (2022), the studied traits and NPFP were higher, while RUE was lower. Hybrid ZP666 had higher values of morphological traits and yield component traits, except 1000-grain weight, grain yield, RUE, and NPFP, than hybrid NS6030. The highest values for morphological traits, yield components, grain yield (9383 and 9456 kg ha⁻¹), and RUE (27.1 and 27.2 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹) were obtained at 120 and 180 kg N ha⁻¹. The NPFP decreased significantly with increasing N input, from 137.6 (control) to 52.5 kg grain per kg fertilizer N (180 kg N ha⁻¹). A suitable hybrid selection and the application of a moderate N fertilizer rate of 120 kg N ha⁻¹ could contribute to high yields and lower nitrogen losses to the environment and promote sustainable agriculture. Full article

Background/Objectives: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system, characterized by various molecular alterations. This study evaluates the relationship between p16 promoter methylation status, BRAFV600E mutation presence, and ETS1 (E26 transformation-specific) expression, aiming to better understand their clinical significance and to enhance the risk stratification of PTC patients. Methods: p16 promoter methylation was analyzed by methylation-specific PCR (MSP), BRAFV600E by mutant allele-specific PCR amplification (MASA), ETS1 mRNA expression by quantitative PCR (qPCR), ETS1 protein expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Western blot. All tested factors were further associated with the occurrence of unfavorable clinicopathological data of the patients. Results: While p16 methylation did not correlate with adverse clinical parameters or BRAFV600E mutation presence, it was significantly associated with the increased ETS1 mRNA levels. Combined p16 methylation with high ETS1 protein levels was significantly associated with advanced pT and pTNM stages. BRAFV600E-mutated PTC cases with p16 methylation showed increased mRNA and protein ETS1 expression. Conclusions: Therefore, although p16 methylation could not be used as a standalone prognostic marker, its association with elevated ETS1 levels points to its potential involvement in tumor progression and adverse clinical outcomes, particularly in BRAFV600E-mutated PTCs. Deeper insights into these interactions may enhance PTC prognosis and the selection of high-risk patients. Full article

Background/Objectives: Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) continue to pose a significant public health challenge due to insufficient immunization coverage. This study aimed to provide the first seroprevalence data against MMR and to explore self-reported immunity among future healthcare workers (HCWs) in Serbia, including women of childbearing age. Methods: We included 1296 future health care workers (HCWs) aged 19 to 29, born in Serbia. All HCWs supplied a blood sample for serology and filled in a questionnaire. Antibodies were measured using an enzyme immunoassay against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Results: Anti-measles, -mumps, and -rubella seronegativity rates were 25.6%, 26.5%, and 4.4%, respectively, among future HCWs in Serbia. The mumps seronegativity rate was significantly higher in the oldest (27–29-year) age group, accompanied by significantly lower anti-mumps IgG GMCs in the same age group compared to younger participants (p = 0.035 and p < 0.001, respectively). Anti-mumps seronegativity also increased significantly across birth cohorts, from the youngest to the oldest (p = 0.004). Furthermore, anti-mumps IgG antibody GMCs were significantly higher among females, those who attended nursery/kindergarten, and unvaccinated individuals (p = 0.050, p = 0.020, and p = 0.005, respectively). Finally, older age and unvaccinated status were identified as independent factors associated with anti-measles and anti-mumps seronegativity among future HCWs in Serbia. Conclusions: The cross-sectional seroprevalence data revealed insufficient seroprotection in this population of particular importance, i.e., future HCWs, and women of childbearing age. These results strongly support the national recommendations for the mandatory vaccination of these populations. Identified immunity gaps should be closed promptly by strategic, targeted serologic screening, followed by vaccination of those lacking MMR antibodies. Full article

Background: Child poverty is a critical issue that affects millions of children worldwide and represents a global issue. This article focuses on exploring the risk of child poverty and social exclusion across Europe, with Serbia being in a comparable position with respect to other countries with different levels of development. Methods: This is an epidemiological, retrospective, and descriptive study based on data on the national populations of the European countries within our research interest. The data analyzed in this study was taken from publicly available datasets from Eurostat. The indicators of interest were the ones considering the social inclusion of children in the time period between 2014 and 2023 for all European countries available in the datasets. Results: The indicator of the risk of poverty and social exclusion showed a decreasing trend in the majority of countries; but still, seven countries showed an increase during the observation period of one decade. The highest percentage was in Romania and the lowest in Slovenia. The indicator of the risk of poverty exhibited a significant difference in terms of gender (being mostly higher among females) in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Montenegro, Albania, and Turkey. The indicator of children living in households with very low work intensity exhibited a significant difference in terms of gender (being mostly higher among males) in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Malta, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland, and Albania. The indicator of severe social and material deprivation exhibited a significant difference in terms of gender (being mostly higher among females) in Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Montenegro, Albania, and Turkey. Serbia did not show a significant gender difference, but the male gender had higher values than the female for all indicators. Conclusion: Child poverty is a multifaceted issue that affects various aspects of children’s lives, including health, education, and social inclusion. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes social protection, access to quality services, and efforts to combat discrimination. Full article

The oxygen-evolving IrO₂-Ta₂O₅/Ti anode (OEA), primarily used in electrolyzers for plating, metal powder production, electrowinning (EW), and water electrolysis, is analyzed. This study focuses on the distribution of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity and the associated operational loss over the randomized OEA texture. The OER activity and its distribution across the IrO₂-Ta₂O₅ coating surface are key factors that influence EW operational challenges and the lifecycle of OEA in EW processes. To understand the OER activity distribution over the coating’s randomized texture, we performed analyses using anode polarization in acid solution at both low and high (EW operation relevant) overpotentials and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) during the OER. These measurements were conducted on anodes in both their as-prepared and deactivated states. The as-prepared anode was deactivated using an accelerated stability test in an acid solution, the EW simulating electrolyte. The obtained data are correlated with fundamental electrochemical properties of OEA, such as structure-related pseudocapacitive responses at open circuit potential in the same operating environment. OER and Ir dissolution kinetics, along with the physicochemical anode state upon deactivation, are clearly characterized based on current and potential dependent charge transfer resistances and associated double layer capacitances obtained by EIS. This approach presents a useful tool for elucidating, and consequently tailoring and predicting, anode OER activity and electrolytic operational stability in industrial electrochemical applications. Full article

The development of resistance to standard cytostatics, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), significantly limits the efficacy of colon cancer therapy, prompting the search for novel anticancer agents, particularly among natural compounds. This study evaluated the anticancer effects of isorhamnetin, a plant-derived flavonol, and its ability to modulate the expression of drug-resistance-related biomarkers in SW-480 and HT-29 colon cancer cells, with a focus on ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. Isorhamnetin demonstrated strong cytotoxic and proapoptotic activity on both cell lines, while showing lower toxicity toward normal HaCaT cells. In addition to suppressing the mRNA expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes (CYP1A1 and CYP1B1), isorhamnetin significantly reduced the mRNA levels of multidrug resistance-associated proteins 1 and 5 (MRP1 and MRP5), as well as the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) level in SW-480 and HT-29 cells. Molecular docking analysis revealed a high binding affinity of isorhamnetin to CYP1A1, CYP1B1, P-gp, MRP1, MRP5, and glutathione S-transferase (GST) proteins, with stronger interactions than those observed for 5-FU, suggesting potential interference with their function. These results provide a solid basis for future investigations to confirm the therapeutic potential of isorhamnetin as a modulator of drug resistance in colon cancer cells. Full article

In the present study, five novel dexketoprofen amide derivatives with a free carboxyl group in their side chains were synthesized. The in vivo anti-inflammatory potential of dexketoprofen derivatives was evaluated using a carrageenan-induced paw edema model of acute inflammation. Additionally, the local and systemic redox status in rats following acute administration of the compounds was assessed by measuring levels of pro-oxidative markers and the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Among the analyzed molecules, derivatives 2 and 4 exhibited the most potent in vivo anti-inflammatory activity, showing effects comparable to those of the parent compound dexketoprofen. In vitro results revealed that all newly synthesized compounds exhibited low inhibitory activity toward COX-1, whereas only compound 4 showed significant COX-2 inhibition. The stronger binding affinity of derivative 4 for COX-2 in comparison to other tested compounds is likely attributed to its ability to form multiple electrostatic interactions within the enzyme’s active site. Furthermore, compounds 2 and 5 demonstrated efficacy comparable to the parent drug in restoring redox balance, indicating their potential antioxidant properties under acute inflammatory conditions. The findings of this study underscore the therapeutic potential of the novel dexketoprofen amide derivatives as dual-function agents with the capacity to modulate both inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. Full article

Postamputation pain (PAP), including residual limb pain (RLP) and phantom limb pain (PLP), remains a significant and debilitating complication after limb loss. Despite advances in pharmacological management, many patients experience inadequate pain relief, underscoring the need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Objective: This narrative review critically synthesizes current interventional therapies for PAP, focusing on mechanisms, clinical efficacy and practical application. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Science databases for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Relevant articles on peripheral nerve interventions as well as different neuromodulation techniques were included. Results: Peripheral interventions (such as alcohol neurolysis, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoneurolysis (CNL)) and neuromodulation techniques (including spinal cord stimulation (SCS), dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation and cauda equina stimulation (CES)) demonstrate promising outcomes for PAP. Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) shows favorable safety and efficacy profiles and may help prevent the chronification of pain. Conclusions: Contemporary interventional therapies represent valuable options in the multidisciplinary management of PAP. Nevertheless, further research is required to standardize clinical algorithms, optimize therapeutic decision-making and improve long-term outcomes and quality of life for individuals with PAP. Full article

A pair $(A,B)$ of Banach space operators is strict $(m,X)$-isometric for a Banach space operator $X\in B(\mathcal{X})$ and a positive integer m if ${▵}_{A,B}^m(X)=\left({\displaystyle \sum _{j=0}^m}\left(\begin{array}{c}m\\ j\end{array}\right)L_A^j{R}_B^j\right)(X)=0$ and ${▵}_{A,B}^{m-1}(X)\ne 0$, where $L_A$ and $R_B\in B(B(\mathcal{X}))$ are, respectively, the operators of left multiplication by A and right multiplication by B. Define operators $E_{A,B}$ and ${\mathcal{E}}_{A,B}(X)$ by $E_{A,B}=L_A{R}_B$ and ${\left({\mathcal{E}}_{A,B}(X)\right)}^n=E_{A,B}^n(X)$ for all non-negative integers n. Using little more than an algebraic argument, the following generalised version of a result of relating $(m,X)$-isometric properties of pairs $(A_1,A_2)$ and $(B_1,B_2)$ to pairs $({\mathcal{E}}_{A_1,A_2}(S_1),{\mathcal{E}}_{B_1,B_2}(S_2))$ and $(E_{A_1,A_2},E_{B_1,B_2})$ is proved: if $A_i,B_i,S_i,X$ are operators in $B(\mathcal{X})$, $1\le i\le 2$ and X a quasi-affinity, then the pair $({\mathcal{E}}_{A_1,A_2}(S_1),{\mathcal{E}}_{B_1,B_2}(S_2))$ (resp., the pair $(E_{A_1,A_2},E_{B_1,B_2})$) is strict $(m,X)$-isometric for all $X\in B(\mathcal{X})$ if and only if there exist positive integers $m_i\le m$, $1\le i\le 2$ and $m=m_1+m_2-1$, and a non-zero scalar $\beta$ such that $I-{\mathcal{E}}_{\beta A_1,A_2}(S_1)$ is (strict) $m_1$-nilpotent and $I-{\mathcal{E}}_{{\displaystyle \frac{1}{\beta }}{B}_1,B_2}(S_2)$ is (strict) $m_2$-nilpotent (resp., $(\beta A_1,B_1)$ is strict $(m_1,I)$-isometric and $({\displaystyle \frac{1}{\beta }}{B}_2,A_2)$ is strict $(m_2,I)$-isometric). Full article

This study investigates the relationship between architectural attributes of workspaces and employee satisfaction, situating its inquiry within the broader context of post-pandemic hybrid work models and the evolving understanding of territoriality in organizational environments. Drawing on the social production of space and the multidimensional framework of Quality of Work Life (QWL), this research employs a quantitative, questionnaire-based methodology across three diverse corporate settings in Belgrade, Serbia. A total of 124 participants took part in the survey, representing the logistics (Fercam), IT (UBConnect), and healthcare (Medigroup) sectors. The survey integrates validated instruments—the Workspace Characteristics Scale (WCS) and the Workspace Satisfaction Scale (WSS)—to assess the impact of 12 variables and spatial features, reflecting functional, sensory, and sociological dimensions. Multiple regression analyses reveal that aesthetics, flexibility, and a sense of belonging consistently emerge as significant predictors of workspace satisfaction, with sector-specific variations observed across the cases. Notably, the findings underscore the importance of aligning spatial design with organizational values and user expectations while also highlighting the nuanced roles of sociological and psychological dimensions. The results offer practical relevance for architects and interior designers, providing insights into how design strategies tailored to user needs and sector-specific cultures can foster more effective workplace environments. This study concludes that evidence-based, multidimensional design strategies are essential for fostering well-being and productivity in contemporary work environments, demonstrating the value of aligning design with user expectations to enhance organizational outcomes. It recommends further research into the interplay between flexibility and belonging as determinants of workplace satisfaction. Full article

As land plastic pollution has piled up in recent decades, small products of its degradation, microplastics (MPs), have emerged as a rapidly growing problem in soil environments. The first step in MP evaluation from soils is the extraction of MP particles, and it appears to be a particularly difficult substrate to work with. Aggregate formation and the presence of other organic particles of similar sizes appeared as challenges in constructing an efficient and trustworthy protocol for MP extraction from soils. Density separation-based methods are usually applied and finding efficient cost- and environment-friendly solutions is of high importance, while data comparability is a key factor in increasing general knowledge on the topic. Here, we propose an environmentally friendly protocol based on density separation using sucrose solution. Its efficiency for MP extraction from soil was tested and validated. Protocol validation showed that its use in the extraction of PE was efficient for all examined MP sizes (>32 μm) and PVC >500 μm with high recovery rates, while the extraction of PVC >125 μm is justified since sucrose solution is practically cost-free and completely environmentally safe. Result validation indicates that the proposed protocol has high potential for MP extraction from difficult soil samples. Full article

The electrochemical behavior of copper (II) on glassy carbon from an eutectic mixture of choline chloride (ChCl) and ethylene glycol (EG) was investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The redox and deposition processes were studied for electrolyte concentrations of 0.01 M and 0.5 M Cu(II), with particular attention paid to the effects of different Cu(II) concentrations on the copper deposition potential and morphology of the copper deposits. The CV results showed that the Cu(II) species are reduced to Cu(0) via two separate steps. Higher Cu(II) concentrations in the electrolyte triggered the formation of differently coordinated Cuⁿ⁺ complexes next to the electrode, which shifted the electrodeposition potential of Cu(I)/Cu(0) couples towards more positive values. The Cu deposits were obtained potentiostatically from 0.01 M and 0.5 M Cu(II)-ChCl:EG electrolyte and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The different copper concentrations in electrolytes induced different morphologies of electrodeposited copper, where the mixture of irregular grains and carrot or needle-like dendrites was obtained from 0.01 M, and rose-like forms were obtained from 0.5 M electrolytes. This study is the first to identify these rose-like forms and the mechanism of their formation, which is discussed in detail. Full article

In this study, we present bi-layered hydrogel systems that incorporate different sizes and shapes of gold nanoparticles (nanospheres and nanorods) for potential use in areas such as photoactuators, soft robotics, artificial muscles, drug delivery and tissue engineering. The synthesized nano Au-PNiPAAm/PVA bi-layered hydrogel nanocomposites provide the unique ability to exhibit controlled motion upon light exposure, indicating that the above systems possess the capability of photo–thermal energy conversion. The chosen synthesis approach is a combination of chemical production of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) followed by gamma radiation formation of crosslinked polymer networks around them, as the final step, which also allows for sterilization in a single technological step. According to the TEM analysis, the gold nanospheres (AuNSs) with mean diameters of around 17 and 30 nm, as well as nanorods (AuNRs) with an aspect ratio of around 4.5, were synthesized and used as nanofillers in the formation of nanocomposites. Their stability within the polymer matrix was confirmed by UV–Vis spectral studies, by the presence of local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) bands, typical for nanoparticles of various shapes and sizes. Morphological studies (FE-SEM) of hydrogels revealed the formation of a porous structure with PNiPAAm hydrogel as an active layer and PVA hydrogel as a passive layer, as well as a stable interfacial layer with a thickness of around 80 μm. The synthesized bi-layered photoactuators showed a photo–thermal response upon exposure to irradiation of green lasers and lamps that simulate sunlight, resulting in bending motion. This bending response reveals the huge potential of the obtained materials as soft actuators, which are more flexible than rigid systems, making them effective for specific applications where controlled movement and flexibility are essential. Full article

This paper investigates the Ulam–Hyers stability of both linear and nonlinear delayed neutral Hilfer fractional difference equations. We utilize the nabla Laplace transform, known as the N-transform, along with a generalized discrete Gronwall inequality to derive sufficient conditions for stability. For the linear case, we provide an explicit solution formula involving discrete Mittag-Leffler functions and establish its stability properties. In the nonlinear case, we concentrate on delayed neutral Hilfer fractional difference equations, a class of systems that appears to be unexplored in the existing literature with respect to Ulam–Hyers stability. In particular, for the linear case, the absolute difference between the solution of the linear Hilfer fractional difference equation and the solution of the corresponding perturbed equation is bounded by the function of $\epsilon$ when the perturbed term is bounded by $\epsilon$. In the case of the neutral fractional delayed Hilfer difference equation, the absolute difference is bounded by a constant multiple of $\epsilon$. Our results fill this gap by offering novel stability criteria. We support our theoretical findings with illustrative numerical examples and simulations, which visually confirm the predicted stability behavior and demonstrate the applicability of the results in discrete fractional dynamic systems. Full article

Plastic is a major organic pollutant globally but has only recently been recognized for its recalcitrant nature and resistance to degradation. Although vast amounts of plastic debris are overwhelming the planet, the search for solutions to its degradation has only recently begun. One of the most well-known agents of plastic biodegradation is the larvae of Tenebrio molitor, which can alter the structure of polymers like polystyrene. However, while this insect can cause deterioration, its frass, which still consists of polystyrene microplastics, remains a problem. We investigated whether this frass could be further degraded by strains of white rot fungi, specifically Pleurotus eryngii and Trametes versicolor. We introduced two PS derivatives (styrofoam and stirodure) to the fungi in liquid media and evaluated oxidative metabolism enzymes (laccase, Mn-peroxidase, lignin-peroxidase) activities, and the phenolic products of the potential aromatic polymer degradation in the media. Finally, we evaluated FTIR spectra to determine if we could detect changes in polystyrene molecule degradation. Both fungi produced high amounts of enzymes, particularly when the polystyrene was present. Large quantities of phenolic substances were simultaneously detected, some associated with polystyrene degradation. FTIR spectra of different polystyrene products confirmed species-specific mechanisms for their degradation by experimental fungal strains. Full article