Power system reliability is often threatened by lightning discharges causing the outages of the overhead lines. Surge arresters installed on high-voltage overhead transmission lines can improve their lightning performance. Studying lightning is a challenging task due to its stochastic nature and complex discharge mechanism. Lightning data based on lightning location systems has contributed to the recent improved understanding of lightning but there are still areas that require further research such as the parameters of the lightning current waveform. This paper describes the proposed line surge arresters' monitoring system for measuring lightning and line surge arrester currents as well as temperature and humidity. The proposed system is based on state-of-the-art measuring sensors, communication and information technologies. Software and hardware components of the system are described, including laboratory tests and results.

Introduction: Statins are lipid lowering medications, used for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), but have shown to increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of high-potency statins, atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin on fasting glucose (FG) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in CVD patients. Methods: The case–control study included 123 patients from Tuzla Canton, Bosnia, and Herzegovina, with a diagnosis of CVD, treated in three health centers: Public Health Center Gračanica, Banovići, and Čelić. Of total patients, 84 were statin users (39 atorvastatin users and 45 rosuvastatin users) and 39 were not. Demographic data, diagnosis, and data of the therapy were taken from the medical records, as well as data of the FG and HbA1c, measured before or within 3 months of the statin therapy introduction. For the same patients, FG and HbA1c were also measured at least 3 months after the introduction of therapy. Results: Obtained results have shown a significant increase of FG in CVD patients on statin therapy in relation to control (p = 0.034). Comparing the diabetogenic effects of atrovastatin and rosuvastatin, it was found that the HbA1c in patients on atorvastatin therapy was significantly higher comparing to those on rosuvastatain therapy (p = 0.028). The FG was significantly increased (p = 0.027) after atrovastatin therapy. Similar results were obtained in diabetogenic CVD patients, where HbA1c on atorvastatin therapy was significantly higher comparing to HbA1c in those on rosuvastatain therapy (p = 0.039). A significant correlation was found between the increase in FG and HbA1c with the duration of atorvastatin therapy (p = 0.001 and p = 0.033), and between the increase in HbA1c and the duration of rosuvastatin therapy (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Long-term therapy with high-potency statins, atorvastatin, and rosuvastatin, may increase levels of FG and HbA1c in patients with CVD, where atorvastatin shows more significant effects.

We observe a network scenario where parts of a secret are distributed among its nodes. Within the network, a group of attackers is actively trying to obtain the complete secret, while there is also the issue of some nodes malfunctioning or being absent. In this paper, we address this problem by employing graph multicoloring techniques, focusing on the case of a single attacker and varying numbers of malfunctioning nodes.

Understanding the variability in the mechanical and hydrological soil characteristics resulting from diverse tillage and residue management practices is essential for evaluating the adoption of conservation strategies to preserve soil’s physical well-being. Zero-tillage techniques combined with residue retention or incorporation have gained widespread recognition for their capacity to conserve soil and water resources, reduce energy consumption, and enhance soil quality and environmental sustainability. Nevertheless, the choice of tillage and residue management options may vary depending on the geographical locations and specific soil conditions. To assess the impacts of four distinct tillage and residue management approaches, a two-year experiment (2020–2021 and 2021–2022) was conducted: T1: conventional tillage followed by wheat sowing after the removal of rice straw (CT-RS); T2: zero tillage with wheat sowing using a Happy Seeder while retaining rice straw (ZT+RS); T3: conventional tillage followed by wheat sowing after rice straw incorporation using a reversible mouldboard plough (CT+RS); T4: minimum tillage with wheat sowing using a Super Seeder with rice straw incorporation (MT+RS); the effects were recorded on the physical soil properties. Our findings indicate that zero tillage combined with residue retention (T2) had a positive influence on various physical soil attributes. Notably, significant differences were observed among the tillage and residue management options, particularly in terms of the bulk density with T1 exhibiting the highest values and the lowest being in T2, whereas the soil penetration resistance was lowest in T3 compared to T1. In the case of T3, sandy loam and clay loam soils had the highest measured saturated hydraulic conductivity values, measuring 5.08 and 4.57 cm h−1 and 4.07 and 3.73 cm h−1, respectively. Furthermore, T2 (zero tillage with residue retention) demonstrated the highest mean weight diameter (MWD) and maximum water stable aggregate. These results collectively underscore the positive effects of adopting zero tillage and retaining residue (T2) on soil structure and quality, particularly concerning the mechanical and hydrological soil properties.

Introduction Basketball is a fast-paced intermittent team sport, wherein the players must exhibit different morphologies and fitness levels depending on their position. The aim of this study was to assess the differences in the athleticism of basketball players by playing positions and in its relations with body composition and anthropometric measures. It was hypothesized that calculated athleticism has stronger and better predictive relations with morphology compared to motoric tests alone. Methods 47 basketball players were divided into three groups according to playing position [guards (n = 14), forwards (n = 22), centers (n = 11)]. Body composition and anthropometrical measurements were done for all players. Athleticism was presented in terms of overall (OFS), jumping (JFS) and sprinting (SFS) fitness scores. Results Fitness scores were found to be more strongly related to body composition and anthropometry measurements than motoric tests alone. All three fitness scores were moderate to strongly correlated with skinfold thickness and fat percentage, while body height, fat-free mass, and lean body mass were positively correlated. Significant differences in athleticism fitness scores were found between guards and other groups. Forwards displayed superior athleticism in power and sprint abilities when compared to guards and centers. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that fat percentage, lean muscle mass, skinfold thickness, and arm span exhibited strong predictive capabilities in relation to athleticism scores. Conclusions Coaches and practitioners should be aware that athleticism includes a multitude of components, and they should use athleticism assessments before designing training regimens that are tailored to each position's unique needs.

Purpose To characterize the orientation dependence of magnetization transfer (MT) measures in white matter (WM) and propose a first correction method for such measures. Methods A characterization method was developed using the fiber orientation obtained from diffusion MRI (dMRI) with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and constrained spherical deconvolution (CSD). This allowed for characterization of the orientation dependence of measures in all of WM, regardless of the number of fiber orientation in a voxel. Furthermore, a first correction method was proposed from the results of characterization, aiming at removing said orientation dependence. Both methods were tested on a 20-subject dataset and effects on tractometry results were also evaluated. Results Previous results for single-fiber voxels were reproduced and a novel characterization was produced in voxels of crossing fibers, which seems to follow trends consistent with single-fiber results. Unwanted effects of the orientation dependence on MT measures were highlighted, for which the correction method was able to produce improved results. Conclusion Encouraging results of corrected MT measures showed the importance of such correction, opening the door for future research on the topic.

Soil contamination with heavy metals is becoming an increasingly global issue, as elevated levels of heavy metals exceeding regulatory limits are diminishing agricultural productivity and consequently endangering human health and the environment. This study aimed to assess the seasonal dynamics, accumulation, and translocation of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Ni, and Zn) in the organs of white clover (Trifolium repens L.) depending on soil content. The heavy metal content in soil and white clover samples was determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results revealed that the analyzed soil was significantly contaminated with Cu and Zn in the industrial zone (GS) and with Pb near the urban landfill (D3). The content of heavy metals in white clover varied depending on the location and season. It is evident that white clover accumulated certain metals in its roots and leaves during spring, summer, and autumn, including Pb, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Zn. The analysis results indicated that Fe was the predominant element in white clover roots, while Zn and Fe were most abundant in the leaves. Values of BCF >1 and TF >1 for Zn suggest that white clover is a potential accumulator of this heavy metal.

Peripartum depression (PPD) has been the focus of many studies, clinical interventions and policymaking over the past decades, yet more work is needed in order to mitigate this disorder and its negative consequences. This symposium offers an examination, through various review techniques, of five emerging understudied topics related to PPD diagnosis, treatment and policy implications. Through a scoping review, the first presentation considers how economic evaluation can inform the development of mental health policy strategies and guidelines and identify implications for preventive, screening and treatment strategies for PPD. The second presentation increases understanding of PPD disorder diagnosis through a synthesis of current literature on issues regarding PPD diagnosis in different aspects. The third presentation focuses on Paternal PPD (P-PPD) and presents a consensus report on emerging issues and questions on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of P-PPD The fourth presentation presents, through an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, an overarching synthesis of the literature regarding complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) to treat PPD, while assessing the extent to which CATs are associated with depressive symptoms reduction during pregnancy or after childbirth. The fifth presentation focuses, through a systematic review, on the effectiveness of Third Wave cognitive behavioral psychological interventions in treating peripartum depression. All five presenters will discuss the major findings of their work as well as potential implications for research, clinical practice and policy. Collectively, this set of papers advances the understanding of PPD diagnosis, prevention and treatment and of implications for clinical practice, research and policy.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease associated with an impaired autoimmune response; the immune system attacks erroneously own tissues, which leads to inflammation, tissue damage and complement activation. The latter plays a pivotal role in SLE pathology, as complement level is suited as histological marker for disease diagnoses and management. Besides, environmentally factors have been highlighted and their significant contribution for individual genetic predisposition has been pointed out. Here complement factors, their activity and their ability to modify DNA with histone proteins are reviewed; known gene mutations involved in SLE, and new therapeutic approaches suggested for SLE are discussed and summarized, as well.

An atrioventricular valve insufficiency is a common form of cardiac disorder in mammals, whereas it has rarely been reported in reptiles. A two-year-old male bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) was presented with acute onset of lethargy, inappetence and general weakness, increased respiratory effort, dark skin color, and arched back. A gastrointestinal foreign body was suspected, but radiography showed coelomic fluid accumulation. Ultrasound heart examination revealed turbulent blood flow at the level of the atrioventricular valves. Electrocardiography by modified Einthoven lead system (lead configuration 1) as described for Squamata, did not show significant changes. A tentative diagnosis of congestive heart failure as a result of valvulopathy was made. Treatment consisted of parenteral furosemide and fluid administration and assisted feeding with appropriate food intended for adult bearded dragons. The patient was weekly evaluated and successfully recovered over the four months. Echocardiography and electrocardiography were repeated 12 months later. The prescribed treatment was successful with complete resolution of clinical signs, and long-term surveillance of the bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps).

Background: Despite the overall success of THA, between 5 and 20% report unsatisfactory results. Several factors may cause this variable outcome. 1 of them might be ethnicity which, because of its potential social impact on living conditions, may influence quality of life too. It should be studied whether patients born and being operated in their home country Bosnia and Herzegovina (BH) had similar results as immigrants being operated in Sweden (IS). Methods: Data of 280 patients were collected prospectively from questionnaires in the BH group. Patients of the IS group were eligible if both of their parents were born outside the Nordic countries, not having Swedish as their native language. Data were gained from the Swedish Arthroplasty Registry (SAR), 449 patients were included. Outcomes were pain VAS, satisfaction VAS, EQ-VAS, and the EQ-5D. Logistic and linear regression models including age, sex, diagnosis, type of fixation, surgical incision, marital status and educational level were analysed to compare those 2 groups. Results: There were considerable differences in patient demographics between the 2 groups. Before the operation, patients in the BH group reported more problems with self-care and usual activities, even after adjustment for confounding factors (p < 0.0005). Patients in the IS group reported a higher EQ-VAS and more pain VAS (p < 0.0005), the difference in the EQ-VAS was not significant after adjustment for confounding factors (p = 0.41). After 1 year patients in the BH group reported better scores in all dimensions of the EQ-5D (p ⩽ 0.005) apart from self-care. After adjustment for confounding factors, patients in the BH group were more satisfied too (p < 0.0005). Conclusions: Immigrated patients (IS group) seemed to experience less benefit from THA 1 year after the operation despite more symptoms preoperatively. There were considerable limitations affecting the results. Nevertheless, the data are a point of concern, and it is suggested to take more multidimensional care of immigrant patients.

Background Ikigai (meaning or purpose in life) is a concept understood by most older adults in Japan. The term has also garnered international attention, with recent academic attempts to map it to concepts in the Western well-being literature. In addition, efforts to use social and home robots to increase well-being have grown; however, they have mostly focused on hedonic well-being (eg, increasing happiness and decreasing loneliness) rather than eudaimonic well-being (eg, fostering meaning or purpose in life). Objective First, we explored how Japanese older adults experience ikigai and relate these to concepts in the Western well-being literature. Second, we investigated how a home robot meant to promote ikigai is perceived by older adults. Methods We used a mixed methods research design—including 20 interviews with older adults, a survey of 50 older adults, and 10 interviews with family caregivers. For interviews, we asked questions about older adults’ sources of ikigai, happiness, and social support, along with their perception of the robot (QT). For surveys, a number of well-being scales were used, including 2 ikigai scales—ikigai-9 and K-1—and 6 Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scales, measuring meaning and purpose, positive affect, satisfaction with participation in social roles, satisfaction with participation in discretionary social activities, companionship, and emotional support. Questions related to the perception and desired adoption of the robot and older adults’ health status were also included. Results Our results suggest that health is older adults’ most common source of ikigai. Additionally, although self-rated health correlated moderately with ikigai and other well-being measures, reported physical limitation did not. As opposed to social roles (work and family), we found that ikigai is more strongly related to satisfaction with discretionary social activities (leisure, hobbies, and friends) for older adults. Moreover, we found that older adults’ sources of ikigai included the eudaimonic aspects of vitality, positive relations with others, contribution, accomplishment, purpose, and personal growth, with the first 3 being most common, and the hedonic aspects of positive affect, life satisfaction, and lack of negative affect, with the first 2 being most common. However, the concept of ikigai was most related to eudaimonic well-being, specifically meaning in life, along the dimension of significance. Finally, we found that Japanese older adults have high expectations of a home robot for well-being, mentioning that it should support them in a multitude of ways before they would likely adopt it. However, we report that those with the highest levels of meaning, and satisfaction with their leisure life and friendships, may be most likely to adopt it. Conclusions We outline several ways to improve the robot to increase its acceptance, such as improving its voice, adding functional features, and designing it to support multiple aspects of well-being.

INTRODUCTION: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has a major impact on emotional, social, and professional life. This study aimed to evaluate general life satisfaction, a subjective measure of well-being, in IBS patients, and to determine which factors are associated with higher life satisfaction. METHODS: IBS patients (n = 195, mean age 51.4 ± 16.5 years, 73.8% female) recruited from primary and secondary/tertiary care completed questionnaires regarding gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life, psychological factors, and life satisfaction (Satisfaction With Life Scale, 5 items, range 5–35). A finite mixture model analysis was performed to identify latent classes. Multivariable linear regression was used to identify variables associated with life satisfaction. RESULTS: Overall, 71.3% of the patients were satisfied about their life (Satisfaction With Life Scale-score ≥21). Three latent subgroups could be identified with significantly higher life satisfaction in the subgroup with higher mental quality of life, fewer anxiety and depressive symptoms, lower gastrointestinal specific anxiety, and lower gastrointestinal symptom severity, compared with the other 2 groups. Multivariable linear regression showed that higher physical quality of life (B0.168, P < 0.001) and higher mental quality of life (B0.199, P < 0.001) were associated with higher life satisfaction. Using multivariable regression, no significant association was found between gastrointestinal symptom severity and life satisfaction. DISCUSSION: Higher physical and mental quality of life, but not gastrointestinal symptom severity, were independently associated with higher general life satisfaction in IBS. These findings reinforce the clinical need in IBS treatment to focus on the full extent of the disorder and not merely on gastrointestinal symptom improvement. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00775060.

Modular quantum processor architectures are envisioned as a promising solution for the scalability of quantum computing systems beyond the Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) era. Based upon interconnecting tens to hundreds of quantum processors (i.e cores) via quantum coherent and classical links, this approach unravels the pressing limitations of densely qubit-packed monolithic processors, mainly by mitigating the requirements of qubit control and enhancing qubit isolation. Therefore, this new architectural design enables executing large-scale algorithms in a distributed manner. In order to assess the performance and optimize such architectures, it is crucial to analyze the quantum state transfers occurring via inter-core communication networks, referred to as inter-core qubit traffic. This would provide insights to improve the software and hardware stack for multi-core quantum computers. To this aim, we present a characterization of the spatio-temporal inter-core qubit traffic for different large-scale quantum algorithms. The programs are compiled on an all-to-all connected multi-core architecture that applies the teleportation protocol for inter-core state transfer and supports up to around 1000 qubits. We characterize the qubit traffic based on multiple performance metrics to assess the computational process and the communication overhead. Based on the showcased results, we conclude on the parallelization and scalability of presented algorithms, qualitatively evaluate the resource requirements as we scale circuit sizes, and lay the foundations of application-oriented benchmarking of large-scale multi-core architectures.

The research was carried out on a sample of 1000 (500 male and 500 female) students randomly selected from several faculties within the AAB College in Pristina, Kosovo. Respondents were treated in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. For the assessment of physical activity, the international questionnaire (InternationalPhysical Activity Questionnaire IPAQ). To assess the state of nutrition, morphological parameters were applied: body height, body weight and body mass index. Descriptive analysis, non-parametric technique of difference within the group as well as regression analysis were applied to process the results. The obtained results show that the average height of the student population is Mean = 174.74±8.6; body weight, mean= 70.88±12.7; body mass index, Mean = 23.1±3.3. The prevalence of overweight is 26.1%, while obesity is 2.8%. The results obtained are almost the same as the countries in the region. The survey for the assessment of physical activity indicates an insufficient involvement of students in physical activities that corresponds to the prevalence of overweight. When asked how much time you usually spend sitting during a working day, the prevalence of 2-7 hours is 84.6%. Regression analysis shows a correlation between inactivity during the day and body mass index. The data show a trend towards increasing obesity in the student population and this is an extremely powerful reason for: the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports, for the Ministry of Education, for Universities and Colleges, tocreate conditions for the highest possible participation of students in sports and recreational activities.