Background : Acute postoperative perforating ulcers of the small intestine (APPSUI) are an understudied but dangerous complication of abdominal and pelvic surgeries. The absence of national clinical guidelines for APPSUI management makes it difficult to choose the optimal surgical approach and postoperative patient management in case of this complication. Aim : To determine the optimal surgical approach for managing APPSUI following abdominal and pelvic surgeries. Methods: Analysis of medical records of patients who underwent emergency and elective surgeries on abdominal and pelvic organs at the I.I. Mechnikov North-Western State Medical University, City Hospital No. 40, and Toksovo Clinical Interdistrict Hospital between 2012 and 2025, followed by the development of APPSUI. Inclusion criteria: Age over 18 years; History of surgery on abdominal or pelvic organs; Development of acute perforating ulcers of the small intestine during the postoperative period within the current hospitalization. Exclusion criteria: Age under 18 years; Development of small intestine perforation in close proximity to anastomoses or intestinal stomas (0.5-1 cm); Inability to exclude small intestine perforation due to mechanical or thermal injury Generalized oncological process. Results: The study analyzed medical records of 98 patients with diagnosed APPSUI. The age range of the study sample was 28 to 88 years (mean 55.5±14.1). Gender distribution: female (n = 62; 63.3%) of the total number of patients. Analysis of hospitalization type: 76.5% of patients (n = 75) were admitted to the hospital as emergencies. The main finding : upon initial detection of APPSUI, suturing should be applied as it shows the lowest mortality rate (25%; p = 0.045). Resection of the affected area is recommended for repeated perforation and/or failure of previously sutured defect. Conclusion : Differences in mortality rates depending on the chosen surgical approach for APPSUI were identified. The lowest mortality rate is observed with the suturing method, while the highest rate is characteristic of ileostomy formation when used at initial APPSUI detection. In 29 (29.5%) patients, the first relaparotomy was scheduled, of which 13 (13.2%) had a favorable outcome. In other cases, relaparotomy was performed on demand (n = 69 (70.4%)), of which 8 (11.5%) were discharged. The statistically significant difference (p<0.001) between the groups confirms lower mortality in the scheduled relaparotomy group.

Persistent tympanic foramen: Prevalence, morphometry, and adjacent temporomandibular joint features on cone-beam CT.

ABSTRACT Topological photonic crystals (TPCs) provide a robust platform for terahertz (THz) applications demanding precise manipulation of topological band structures. This study demonstrates a planar valley TPC operating in the THz regime, facilitating tunable coupling between adjacent edge states. When two domain walls supporting different topological edge modes are positioned in close proximity, the spatial overlap of their evanescent wavefunction tails induces mode coupling, resulting in the emergence of a bandgap within the edge‐state continuum. A semi‐analytical model, inspired by frameworks in quantum mechanics and condensed matter physics, quantitatively correlates the induced bandgap width with the modal decay constants and spatial separation of the edge states. Full‐wave simulations of diverse supercell architectures, including those incorporating Dirac photonic crystals (DPCs), corroborate the theoretical predictions. Exploiting this coupling mechanism, an on‐chip THz topological duplexer is designed and experimentally realized, demonstrating low insertion loss, high isolation, and strong immunity to fabrication imperfections, withstanding geometric deviations of up to approximately 20% without performance degradation. These findings establish a unified framework for bandgap engineering via edge‐state interactions and open a new avenue toward high‐performance, frequency‐selective, and integration‐compatible topological photonic devices in the THz regime.

Inducing antigen-specific regulatory T (Treg) cells is a promising strategy for treating autoimmune diseases (AID). Here, we present dendritic cells-CD4⁺ T cells (DC-CD4) bispecific tolerogenic nanovesicles (NV) co-loaded with an antigenic peptide and rapamycin. We show that these NVs bring DCs and CD4⁺ T cells into close spatial proximity through CTLA4-CD80/86 and anti-CD4 (aCD4)-CD4 interactions, thereby promoting antigen-specific Treg cell generation. In a collagen-induced arthritis mouse model, the bispecific NVs display enhanced lymph node (LN) tropism and increase antigen-specific Treg cells in LNs and spleen, when administered in both therapeutic and prophylactic settings, resulting in robust efficacy against CIA. Furthermore, arthritogenic cell transfer and adoptive transfer of Treg cells into Treg-ablated mice confirm the pivotal role of bispecific NV-induced antigen-specific Treg cells in mediating the anti-inflammatory efficacy. Collectively, our data support DC-CD4 bispecific tolerogenic NVs as a platform to induce antigen-specific Treg cells for precise immune tolerance in AIDs.

Rapid urbanization in developing countries has increased pressure on urban land resources, often resulting in incompatible land-use patterns and heightened environmental safety risks. One manifestation of this challenge is the proliferation of fuel stations within residential neighbourhoods. Although fuel stations are essential for urban transportation and economic activity, their close proximity to homes, schools, and markets raises concerns about environmental safety, planning compliance, and public health. This study evaluates the spatial compatibility and urban safety implications of fuel station locations within residential areas of Port Harcourt Municipality using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Spatial data used in the analysis include GPS-surveyed fuel station coordinates, building footprints, road networks, and land-use data obtained from Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDRA), OpenStreetMap and field verification. Spatial mapping, nearest neighbour analysis, buffer analysis, and proximity modelling were applied to examine the distribution of fuel stations and their relationship with nearby residential buildings and other sensitive land uses. The results reveal a clustered spatial pattern, with fuel stations concentrated along major transportation corridors and mixed residential-commercial zones. Buffer analysis shows that 357 residential buildings are located within 50 m of fuel stations, 1,043 within 100 m, and 3,068 within 200 m, exposing a significant number of residents to hazards such as fire outbreaks, explosions, air pollution, and traffic accidents. The findings highlight weak enforcement of development control regulations and emphasize the need for GIS-based monitoring systems and risk-sensitive urban planning.

IntroductionWastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) was implemented at the 2024 Republican and Democratic National Conventions (RNC and DNC, respectively), each with estimated attendances of >50,000 persons. In preparation, the Wisconsin and Chicago WBE programs (associated with the RNC and DNC response, respectively) developed monitoring strategies and response plans, prioritized additional pathogens, and further optimized laboratory workflows to ensure rapid, daily data reporting. Sampling was also conducted before the events to establish baselines, as well as after each event to monitor for residual community transmission.MethodsSurveillance was expanded from the four respiratory pathogens regularly assessed by both WBE programs (SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, influenza B, respiratory syncytial virus) to include 3 gastrointestinal pathogens (norovirus, Salmonella enterica, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli). The Wisconsin program also conducted monitoring for the measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis A viruses. Wastewater sampling for the RNC occurred at the community water reclamation facility level, while at the DNC samples were collected from newly selected sites located in close proximity to the event venues. For both events, WBE data were summarized and contextualized alongside traditional public health surveillance data in daily situation reports.ResultsBetween the RNC and DNC response, a total of 112 wastewater samples were collected and assayed to provide concentration data on as many as 11 distinct pathogens of interest. Concentration results for the suite of pathogens were available within 12 to 36 h of sample collection. In each instance when wastewater concentrations exceeded pre-established thresholds for action and flagged as an alert, other sources of contemporaneous public health surveillance information (e.g., clinical data) were used to corroborate the WBE findings.ConclusionExisting WBE infrastructure in two U. S. cities was readily adapted for public health surveillance at two high-profile, large-scale events. Assays for additional event-relevant pathogens were quickly incorporated into routine laboratory workflows and data from wastewater samples were generated and reported with rapid turnaround-time. In considering the unique benefits of wastewater data, WBE results were a valuable supplement to other public health surveillance data in monitoring potential public health threats during these two large-scale events.

Outbreaks due to measles, mumps, rubella and varicella in schools: a systematic review of the literature.

For the first time, hybrid nanocomposites based on poly(2,5-dichloro-3,6-bis(phenylamino)-p-benzoquinone) (PCPAB) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were obtained and the influence of the preparation method on their structure and functional properties was demonstrated. The nanocomposites were obtained both by ultrasonic mixing of PCPAB and MWCNTs, and via in situ oxidative polymerization of CPAB in the presence of MWCNTs or MWCNTs with the addition of ZnO. The formation of hybrid nanocomposites occurs due to non-covalent interaction (π-stacking) between the graphene structures of the MWCNT surface and the phenyl rings of PCPAB. It was found that during the in situ oxidative polymerization of CPAB in the presence of MWCNTs, the growth of polymer chains occurred in close proximity to the filler surface, which led to the formation of a polymer coating. ZnO particles, localized on MWCNTs, on the one hand, prevent their aggregation, and on the other hand, create additional polymerization reaction centers due to the coordination of the Zn-O bond at the H and O atoms of the monomer. An increase in the concentration of reaction centers as a result led to a 2-2.5-fold reduction in the induction polymerization period. According to SEM data, in this case, a more ordered and denser polymer layer is formed due to intermolecular complexation between the main and side chains of the growing polymer with the participation of Zn2+ ions formed as a result of the transformation of ZnO to ZnCl2 in the acidic reaction medium of polymerization. The results of the study of the frequency dependences of conductivity indicate a hopping mechanism of conductivity of nanocomposites. The electrical conductivity of nanocomposites depends on their production method and the MWCNT content and varies between 0.5 and 1.1 S∙cm-1, which is 6-12 times higher than the conductivity of the original polymer. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the nanocomposites exhibit enhanced thermal stability compared to PCPAB. The best results were shown by nanocomposites with a higher content of MWCNTs, for which the residual mass at 450 °C was 51-53%.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a highly toxic mycotoxin commonly detected in food and agricultural products, requiring sensitive analytical methods for reliable monitoring. Herein, we report an ultrasensitive turn-on electrochemical aptasensor for OTA detection based on a target-induced displacement of an aptamer-complementary DNA (cDNA) duplex assembled on an electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO)-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). In the absence of OTA, a methylene blue (MB)-labeled aptamer hybridized with cDNA is immobilized on the ERGO surface via π-π stacking interactions, forming a rigid duplex that suppresses electron transfer and yields a low electrochemical signal. Upon OTA binding, the aptamer undergoes a conformational transition into a G-quadruplex structure, leading to dissociation of the cDNA strand. This target-induced folding brings the MB redox tag into close proximity to the ERGO surface, markedly accelerating electron transfer and enhancing the cathodic reduction current of MB, thereby producing a pronounced signal-on response in square-wave voltammetry (SWV). The ERGO-modified electrode provides a conductive and stable interface without chemical linkers. Under optimized conditions, the aptasensor shows a linear response to OTA from 10 fM to 100 pM with an ultralow LOD of 0.67 fM, together with high selectivity, good reproducibility, and satisfactory stability. This work demonstrates a simple and effective turn-on aptasensing strategy for sensitive electrochemical detection of OTA.

Plant secondary cell walls constitute the dominant reservoir of renewable biomass, comprising tightly packed cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin at the nanoscale. Recent advances in solid-state NMR spectroscopy and the availability of small-angle X-ray scattering for biomass characterization have led to an accumulation of experimental data on cell wall organization, yet no explicit structure model has simultaneously satisfied both X-ray and NMR observations. Using wheat straw as a model system, we propose a structural framework consistent with current knowledge of cellulose biosynthesis, X-ray scattering data, and one- and two-dimensional 13C solid-state NMR spectra. In this model, 18-chain elementary fibrils align in parallel and populate the cross-section at random. Arabinose-substituted xylan shows no conformational dependence for cellulose-binding in wheat, and only a minor fraction of 2-fold xylan appears in close proximity to cellulose, unlike in Arabidopsis, where xylan is more tightly attached to the cellulose surface. While NMR data cannot unambiguously resolve the internal arrangement of the 18 glucan chains, X-ray scattering profiles uniquely constrain the fibril size and exclude the possibility of tight bundling in the intact walls. The specific interaction between the matrix polymers and the cellulose elementary fibrils must be reconsidered in light of the small interfibril spaces, which bring the matrix components into spatial proximity with cellulose even in the absence of attractive interactions. These findings provide fundamental molecular-level insight into cellulose fibril architecture and matrix-polymer interactions, resolving longstanding discrepancies between spectroscopic and scattering data and advancing our understanding of biopolymer assembly into structurally and functionally versatile lignocellulosic biomaterials.

CO2 capture and reduction to CO using dual-functional materials (DFMs) has recently attracted significant attention as a promising strategy for carbon capture and utilization. DFMs generally comprise basic metals for CO2 capture and transition metals for CO2 conversion. Herein, we successfully developed a DFM (Cs/Al2O3) consisting only of main-group elements, which enabled continuous and selective CO production with high CO2 conversion (89%) and CO selectivity (99%). Notably, Cs/Al2O3 exhibited better CO2 capture and CO formation performance than platinum-group metal-based DFMs under isothermal conditions at 500 °C, even in the presence of O2 during the CO2 capture phase. Comprehensive characterization suggested that single Cs atoms were uniformly dispersed on Al2O3, forming adjacent sites in close proximity. Based on operando infrared analysis, including modulation excitation spectroscopy, the monodentate carbonate species adsorbed during CO2 capture reacted with H2 and yielded gas-phase CO.

Understanding the relationship between neural activity and neurochemical signaling is essential for investigating brain function and neurological disorders. Recent advances in multimodal neural probes enable the simultaneous monitoring of electrical and chemical brain signals; however, most platforms exhibit spatial and temporal mismatches between recording and sensing sites due to fabrication constraints. We present a single-sided multimodal neural probe that integrates chemical-sensing and neural-recording electrodes in close proximity. Using a sequential laser-induced graphene process on a flexible polyimide substrate, we fabricate distinct functional electrodes without photolithography or multilayer alignment. Glucose oxidase and black platinum functionalizations provide specific chemical and electrical sensing capabilities. The probe achieves reliable in vitro glucose detection, showing stable, concentration-dependent responses within physiologically relevant ranges and high selectivity. The black platinum-coated recording electrode exhibits low impedance and strong signal fidelity, making it suitable for extracellular spike recording. In vivo experiments validate the probe by enabling real-time tracking of glucose dynamics and simultaneous neural spike acquisition in the mouse hippocampus' CA3 region. This fabrication strategy improves spatial resolution in multimodal neural interfacing─enabling precise temporal correlation between electrical and chemical signals by minimizing diffusion delays─providing a valuable tool for investigating dynamic neurochemical and electrophysiological processes in the brain.

ABSTRACTA predator's survival is highly dependent on correctly deciding whether to attack potential prey. Pursuit predators, for example, can estimate the size of a moving target from the ratio between its angular speed and size. Such heuristic rules are not available, however, when ambushing stationary prey. Here, we investigated how pixie robber flies (Psilonyx annulatus) and damselflies (Ischnura posita) hunt stationary prey using different sensory strategies, relating to their marked differences in eye morphology. We show that pixie robber flies assess prey using whole-body translational movements. During this assessment, the prey is outside the pixie robber fly's stereopsis range, yet attacks are launched from a distance dictated by absolute, not angular, prey size. These findings suggest that pixie robber flies use motion parallax to infer three-dimensional cues, such as prey distance and/or size, before attacking. Motion parallax may be particularly suitable for pixie robber flies as they hunt in cluttered, low-lighting conditions and have a small size, making it difficult for potential prey to detect their movement, even in close proximity. Damselflies probably rely on alternative processes to assess prey, as translational movements are absent in the assessment phase.

The branched structure of the vertebrate lung provides a high surface area-to-volume ratio, which increases the efficiency of diffusion-driven gas exchange. Generating this structure requires that the epithelial branches avoid contacting each other as they elongate during development. Previous studies have suggested that the spacing between neighboring branches is intrinsic to growth of the epithelium, but the underlying physical mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we used the embryonic chicken lung as a model system and found that branch spacing is regulated primarily by signaling to the mesenchyme through transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ). Although proliferation decreases in epithelial cells that are located in close proximity to an adjacent branch, these patterns surprisingly emerge after regular branch spacing has been established. Instead, we find that TGFβ promotes the directed migration of mesenchymal cells, which form a condensation that physically displaces the adjacent epithelium and tunes branch spacing. Continuous disruption of TGFβ signaling prevents mesenchymal condensation and eventually results in contact between adjacent branches. These data suggest that the spacing between epithelial branches results from mesenchymal cell dynamics rather than from epithelial-intrinsic self-avoidance.

Abstract. High-voltage power lines pose a heightened danger to humans. In addition to the risk of electric shock, powerful electric and magnetic fields have a negative impact on the body of workers located in close proximity to live lines. In order to weaken such electromagnetic fields, modernpractice uses a set of regulatory measures and engineering solutions, among which shielding is highlighted. As a rule, when designing screens, analytical methods are used to calculate the necessary parameters. Issues of numerical modeling of screens are covered in less detail in the scientific literature. This article develops four options for shielding a two-wire power line. Based on the solution of the initial-boundary value problem for the Maxwell system of equations of an alternating magnetic field, zone patterns of fields are constructed for each shielding method and graphs of intensity changes are plotted. Based on the analysis of the obtained data, the effectiveness of shielding at an industrial frequency of 50 Hz was evaluated. Conclusions were made about the increased effectiveness of a combined protective barrier consisting of layers of 10815 steel and aluminum.

ConspectusEarly research in nanoscience and nanotechnology focused on gaining synthetic control over the size, shape, and composition of nanostructures, as well as exploring their fundamental properties. Over the past few decades, these capabilities have become increasingly sophisticated. Today, we have well-established synthetic toolkits and methodologies that enable the design of nanostructures with tailored properties and functions, guided by sets of design rules, for use in many areas spanning biology and medicine to energy, the environment, and catalysis.To illustrate this paradigm, where synthesis and fundamental discovery drive engineering and technological innovation, we examine spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) as a case study. SNAs are nanoconstructs consisting of a nanoparticle core densely functionalized with a radially oriented oligonucleotide shell. Over the past 30 years, the evolution of SNAs has spanned their invention, the development of increasingly advanced syntheses enabling the creation of dozens of SNA classes (and related DNA-functionalized anisotropic materials, often termed programmable atom equivalents [PAEs]), the discovery of novel phenomena that have reshaped core chemical principles, and their translation into nanomedicines, biological labels, and synthons in materials science.SNAs were first developed in 1996 as gold nanoparticle-DNA conjugates. Since then, extensive study has revealed common structural features that are tied to their unique properties, defining SNAs as a distinct materials class. Most SNAs feature a core (typically a nanoparticle, though recent advances involve molecular scaffolds) that concentrate nucleic acid strands into close proximity. This architecture confers several distinctive properties: enhanced binding affinity to complementary DNA (both free and surface-bound), resistance to enzymatic degradation, reduced immune activation (unless specifically designed for immunostimulation), and efficient cellular uptake without requiring transfection agents.These synthetic and fundamental advances offer significant advantages in biomedical probe and therapeutic design. Due to their modularity, stability, biocompatibility, and ability to access intracellular compartments, SNAs have been applied as intracellular and extracellular probes, tools for gene regulation, vaccines, and gene editing platforms (especially when coupled with CRISPR/Cas9 technology). In parallel, SNAs serve as foundational elements in a new class of programmable matter: DNA-mediated colloidal crystals. Here, sequence-specific DNA interactions are used to organize SNAs into three-dimensional, periodic structures. This line of inquiry has enabled the design and synthesis of thousands of crystal variations, with different lattice symmetries, parameters, and nanoparticle compositions, unlocking the potential for novel optical and mechanical metamaterials and catalysts with exceptional properties, such as negative refractive indices, shape memory, and second harmonic generation. In sum, SNAs exemplify how synthetic mastery and fundamental discovery can catalyze innovation across disciplines, providing a framework that chemists can use in developing transformative new materials.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health challenge. In this study, we developed a platform based on chromosome-free and nonreplicating simple cells (SimCells, size 1 to 2 µm) and mini-SimCells (size 100 to 400 nm) for targeted pathogen elimination. Engineered with surface-displayed nanobodies, SimCells and mini-SimCells selectively bind bacteria expressing specific antigens (e.g., OmpA in Escherichia coli). The selective interactions facilitate close SimCell-pathogen proximity, enabling two antimicrobial mechanisms: direct injection of toxic effectors into bacterial cytoplasm via a heterologous expression of type VI secretion system (T6SS), and enzymatic conversion of aspirin into catechol by engineered salicylate hydroxylase, leading to sustained local production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Our results demonstrate that both reprogrammed SimCells and mini-SimCells can eliminate target E. coli with high specificity and efficiency. Multidose reprogrammed mini-SimCell treatment led to a 103-fold selective reduction of targeted bacteria in mixed microbial communities, with minimal disruption to nontarget bacteria. We demonstrate that reprogrammed mini-SimCells, engineered with nanobody targeting outer membrane protein OmpA of the clinically relevant multidrug-resistant pathogen E. coli ST131, achieved elimination efficiencies over 97% at 24 and 48 h. This modularized "plug-and-play" antimicrobial platform provides a highly specific, efficient, and adaptable solution for combating diverse AMR pathogens.

This paper examined the effect of waste dump site on rental values of residential properties in Tayi community in Minna, Niger State. Two sets of structured questionnaires were administered to property occupiers (Landlords and Tenants) and Estate Surveyors and valuers firms in Minna. Two hundred (200) from the residents and ten (10) from the estate surveyors and valuers. The research questions were analyzed with simple frequency and frequency table while a 5 point likert scale were used to examined effect of factors on rental values. The study has established that proximity to dump site (Abattoir) in the community have a significant negative effect on the rental values of residential properties as a result of the liquid waste disposed without proper management thereby creating air pollution in the study area which posed a serious health threat to the occupant in the community and Estate Surveyor and Valuer should advise their clients and dangers of living or locating their properties in close proximity to any dumpsite location. The Government should also create awareness programme for residents in these areas on its health implications of such locations and or provide a better way of managing the waste produced the study area.

Mitochondria are not only the powerhouses of the cell. They are also dynamic signaling hubs, playing a key role in cellular metabolism and adaptation. Proper mitochondrial function depends largely on the import of proteins encoded by the nucleus. Using proximity labeling (TurboID), we show that Arabidopsis thaliana FRIENDLY (FMT) protein is in close proximity to several organellar-destined proteins, mostly mitochondrial, during their translation. Many of the corresponding mRNAs are immunoprecipitated with FMT. Remarkably, when FMT is absent, its target mRNAs lose their correct cellular localization. Our TurboID approach, associated with immunoprecipitations and confocal microscopy, also demonstrates the interaction between FMT and the Nascent polypeptide Associated Complex (NAC), a ribosome-associated platform involved in the maturation and sorting of nascent peptides. Taken together, these results suggest that FMT, through its interaction with NAC and the ribosome, is involved in the spatial regulation of translation in the cell.

Founded in 1703, St. Petersburg was the capital of the Russian Empire. Its historic center and associated monuments are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its components are classified as cultural rather than natural or mixed. We hypothesized that a part of them has an additional ecotourism value. We carried out field observations along with a review of the literature. Our results confirmed the hypothesis: many of these sites retain important elements of biodiversity that can be used for environmental education. Large congregations of birds can be observed in close proximity to Heritage monuments. Wintering bats occupy the interiors of historic fortifications, and in summer, concentrations of feeding bats can be found nearby. Seal haul-out sites have been documented on small islands near the city. The ecotourism and nature-conservation value of these Heritage landscapes is usually linked to the original logic of their selection. The best locations were chosen for palace construction—dry, scenic areas with fertile soils suitable for park creation. Proximity to bodies of water was equally important, both for aesthetic reasons and for sanitation. These same qualities also make such areas highly favorable for biodiversity. Even after centuries of development, many natural features have persisted.