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ABSTRACT Automatic modulation classification (AMC) is explained as accurately identifying a modulation of a received signal. AMC systems are a significant component of cognitive radio network (CRN) systems. It is difficult to perform modulation classification on an unsettled radio signal without any previous knowledge of the signal's properties. In this work, the deep learning‐aided AMC is suggested to solve the difficulties of the existing models. In the proposed approach, the modulation classification is attained by performing two steps: (a) data collection and (b) classification. Initially, the required data related to the cognitive environment is collected from online resources. Later, the garnered data are passed to the classification phase. The AMC is performed by the adaptive and dilated hybrid network (ADHN), which is the combination of a temporal convolution network (TCN) and a gated recurrent unit (GRU). The ADHN accurately classifies the modulation even in a noisy environment. The classification performance of the ADHN is further boosted by tuning the parameters of this network via the enriched remora optimization algorithm (EROA). This proposed modulation classification model is suitable for various channels. The comparative validation is performed to ensure the usefulness of the designed system via several measures. By experimental analysis, the proposed system acquires the high value of accuracy, precision, and f1‐score by 94.2, 80.2, and 86.7, respectively, when compared with classical approaches. In addition to this, other metrics are considered and obtained with more true value and less false value. Thus, it ensures the effectiveness of classifying the modulation types in CRNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer ranks as the second leading cause of mortality worldwide, prompting extensive investigations into factors contributing to its development. Among these factors, genetic variations, known as genotypic polymorphisms, have been identified as significant influencers in the susceptibility to various types of cancer. Recent research has focused on exploring the connection between polymorphisms in the Long Non-coding RNA HOTAIR and cancer risk. However, the results from these studies have been inconsistent, leading to ambiguity and controversy. To address this uncertainty, we conducted a systematic analysis by gathering relevant studies from PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Specifically, we focused on three well-studied polymorphisms within the HOTAIR lncRNA (HOTAIR rs920778 C > T, HOTAIR rs1899663 G > T, HOTAIR rs4759314 A > G) and their association with cancer risk. Our meta-analysis included data from 48 case–control studies involving 42,321 cases and 54,137 controls. The results of our updated meta-analysis revealed a significant correlation between HOTAIR rs1899663 G > T and HOTAIR rs4759314 A > G polymorphisms and overall cancer risk, particularly in the homozygous and recessive genetic models. Subgroup analysis further revealed that these associations were notably pronounced in the Asian population but not observed in the Iranian population. Furthermore, our findings underscore the potential of HOTAIR polymorphisms as diagnostic markers for overall cancer risk, particularly in gynecological cancers, precisely, HOTAIR rs1899663 G > T polymorphism in breast cancer. In conclusion, our systematic analysis provides compelling evidence that Long Non-coding RNA HOTAIR polymorphisms are linked to cancer risk, particularly in certain populations and cancer types, suggesting their potential clinical relevance as diagnostic indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ral-binding/interacting protein (RLIP) acts as a transporter that responds to stress and provides protection, specifically against glutathione–electrophile conjugates and xenobiotic toxins. Its increased presence in malignant cells, especially in cancer, emphasizes its crucial antiapoptotic function. This is achieved by selectively regulating the cellular levels of proapoptotic oxidized lipid byproducts. Suppressing the progression of tumors in human xenografts can be achieved by effectively inhibiting RLIP, a transporter in the mercapturic acid pathway, without involving chemotherapy. Utilizing ovarian cancer (OC) cell lines (MDAH2774, OVCAR4, and OVCAR8), we observed that agents targeting RLIP, such as RLIP antisense and RLIP antibodies, not only substantially impeded the viability of OC cells but also remarkably increased their sensitivity to carboplatin. To delve further into the cytotoxic synergy between RLIP antisense, RLIP antibodies, and carboplatin, we conducted investigations in both cell culture and xenografts of OC cells. The outcomes revealed that RLIP depletion via phosphorothioate antisense led to rapid and sustained remissions in established subcutaneous human ovary xenografts. Furthermore, RLIP inhibition by RLIP antibodies exhibited comparable efficacy to antisense and enhanced the effectiveness of carboplatin in MDAH2774 OC xenografts. These investigations underscore RLIP as a central carrier crucial for supporting the survival of cancer cells, positioning it as a suitable focus for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The peels of pomegranate fruits were employed in the current work to produce activated carbon (AC) using the high temperature carbonization method. The generated activated carbon using pomegranate peel (AC-PP) powder was discovered to have a layered and porous form as revealed by scanning electron microscopic images. It was discovered that activated carbon had an energy gap (Eg) of 4.454 eV. The photocatalytic experiments performed for the degradation of fast blue dye reveal that after 120 min of UV light irradiation, the AC-PP powder achieve a decolorization rate of 62.9%, respectively. Current was collected through the nickel mesh, and the electrochemical elements in rGO, the principal active component in AC-PP powder, were supported by the mesh. Nickel mesh electrodes were analysed using impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Both AC-PP and AC-PP-rGO electrodes' hydrogen diffusion coefficients were determined to be 1.134 10–4 and 0.0014 cm2 s−1, respectively. Experiments with galvanostatic charge–discharge revealed the produced AC-PP and AC-PP-rGO electrodes' superior capacitance potential, which is useful in the fabrication of supercapacitors. The AC-PP and AC-PP-rGO electrodes have 175.6 and 324.8 F g−1 specific capacitances. These unique impacts can also be assessed by energy storage performance using affordable carbon resources in various applications. These novel results might be used for developing up particular resources for environmental and power storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), an extracellular matrix glycoprotein, is vital in preserving cartilage integrity. Further, its overexpression is associated with the aggressiveness of several types of solid cancers. This study investigated COMP's role in ovarian cancer, exploring clinicopathological links and mechanistic insights. Methods: To study the association of COMP expression in cancer cells and stroma with clinicopathological features of ovarian tumor patients, we analyzed an epithelial ovarian tumor cohort by immunohistochemical analysis. Subsequently, to study the functional mechanisms played by COMP, an in vivo xenograft mouse model and several molecular biology techniques such as transwell migration and invasion assay, tumorsphere formation assay, proximity ligation assay, and RT-qPCR array were performed. Results: Based on immunohistochemical analysis of epithelial ovarian tumor tissues, COMP expression in the stroma, but not in cancer cells, was linked to worse overall survival (OS) of ovarian cancer patients. A xenograft mouse model showed that carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) expressing COMP stimulate the growth and metastasis of ovarian tumors through the secretion of COMP. The expression of COMP was upregulated in CAFs stimulated with TGF-β. Functionally, secreted COMP by CAFs enhanced the migratory capacity of ovarian cancer cells. Mechanistically, COMP activated the Notch3 receptor by enhancing the Notch3-Jagged1 interaction. The dependency of the COMP effect on Notch was confirmed when the migration and tumorsphere formation of COMP-treated ovarian cancer cells were inhibited upon incubation with Notch inhibitors. Moreover, COMP treatment induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and upregulation of active β-catenin in ovarian cancer cells. Conclusion: This study suggests that COMP secretion by CAFs drives ovarian cancer progression through the induction of the Notch pathway and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While several devices can monitor temperature, measuring non-volatile thermal history is far more challenging, especially for sensors placed in hazardous settings like fires and explosions. Herein, the utilisation of thermoluminescent microparticles in thermal history sensors is discussed. These transparent dielectric microparticles can store charge carriers for very extended periods due to their wide distribution of trap states. In its most basic form, an Arrhenius expression is strongly temperature-dependent for determining the population of the trap states. When exposed to high temperatures for a brief period, a particle with filled traps will preferentially lose carriers in shallow traps. To ascertain the temperature and timing of the thermal event, this depopulation creates a mark on the particle luminescence. By being exposed to deep ultraviolet, X-ray, beta, or gamma radiation, which fills the traps with charge carriers, particles are prepared many months before a test, if required. No matter if they are embedded in garbage or other inert materials, one or more particles can nevertheless be made to emit light. Laboratory tests using microheaters and high-energy explosives in the field are used to test and analyse the technology. It is demonstrated that a variety of high-explosive conditions may be used to accurately detect temperatures in the $ 200\mathrm{^\circ C} $ 200 ∘ C to $ 500\mathrm{^\circ C} $ 500 ∘ C range using thermoluminescent materials like LiF:Mg,Ti, MgB4O7:Dy,Li, and CaSO4:Ce,Tb. The article will provide the utilisation of different luminescent materials for sensing thermal history and analysing the particle luminescence mechanism through different thermal models for developing improved thermal history sensing technologies. The thermal history reconstruction techniques are also discussed to predict the thermal history. Therefore, the article will pave the way to understanding the luminescent properties of thermoluminescent microparticles for developing state-of-the-art thermal history sensors for measuring non-volatile thermal history and temperature in extreme environments such as fires and explosions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using linear stability analysis, the influence of boundary roughness on electro-hydrodynamic Rayleigh-Taylor instability (EHRTI), in a poorly electrically conducting fluid film of finite thickness, is studied. It is a theoretical study, based on the assumption of densely packed porous lining, prepared with smart material of nanostructure, that permits the use of modified Darcy equation with Saffman-slip condition at the interface. Modify means the addition of Lorentz forces due to magnetic and electric fields. A dispersion that accounts for the growth rate of perturbed waves is derived and stability discussed theoretically. The effects of electromagnetic fields, surface tension, boundary roughness, and porous layer are demonstrated using Stokes and lubrication approximations and shown graphically for the above-said physical parameters on the stability of the system. The strength of electromagnetic fields, porous layer and boundary roughness decreases the unstable growth rate for finitely conducting fluids, while surface tension stabilizes the system for a lower Bond number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is considered as the most important forage legume with high biomass yield and nutritional quality for ruminants. The alfalfa leaf cell walls are highly digestible, but stem cell walls of alfalfa are not readily digestible. The cell wall component of alfalfa has a large source of dietary energy, but ruminant animals can digest less than half of this component due to the presence of high lignin content. The main goal of this review is to make a summary of existing knowledge of alfalfa cell wall thickening and lignification patterns and suggest future directions for improving alfalfa stem cell wall digestibility. We describe alfalfa cell wall biochemistry, alfalfa stem morphology, stem tissue degradation, and existing methods to improve alfalfa digestibility, and discuss the potential future strategies for improving alfalfa cell wall digestibility. Information on these will help alfalfa breeders and producers identify superior alfalfa cultivars with improved stem cell wall digestibility. Concentrating future efforts on the selection and identification of traits and associated genes that affect cell wall digestibility could improve alfalfa cell wall digestibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of previously unknown isoxazole-functionalized imidazopyridine derivatives were synthesized in a few steps, starting from pyridine-2,3-diamine. The synthesis involved the reaction of pyridine-2,3-diamine with lactic acid in PEG-400 to prepare 1-(3H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridin-2-yl)ethanol which was further reacted with propargyl bromide to form 2-[1-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)ethyl]-3H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridine. Finally, the latter was annulated with substituted benzaldehyde oximes in the presence of a catalytic amount of DBU to obtain the target 3-aryl-5-{[1-(3H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridin-2-yl)ethoxy]methyl}-isoxazoles. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and showed excellent DPPH/superoxide/nitric oxide activity in antioxidant assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Forchheimer-extended Brinkman's Darcy-flow model was used to investigate the initiation of ferroconvection in a flat porous layer while accounting for effective viscosity. The rigid ferromagnetic, rigid paramagnetic and stress-free isothermal boundary conditions are the three categories. The eigenvalue issue can be properly addressed for stress-free boundaries; the Galerkin approach is utilized to find the critical stability constraints quantitatively for other barriers. It was discovered that the boundary types had a strong influence on the system's stabilization. Ferromagnetic boundaries are less preferred than paramagnetic boundaries in control of convection. The dependence of many physical limitations on the linear stability of the system is intentionally given, and it is demonstrated that increasing the value of the viscosity ratio delays the beginning of convection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are commonly prescribed medications for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on cardiovascular benefits. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate efficacy and tolerability of once daily liraglutide vs once weekly semaglutide on T2DM in a Veteran population. Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center, cohort study that included T2DM patients with a prescription for liraglutide or semaglutide between September 1st, 2019, and September 30th, 2020. Patients between groups were matched based on age and insulin use at baseline. The primary endpoint was the difference in hemoglobin A1c (A1c) between the most recent A1c in the study period and baseline A1c obtained prior to GLP-1 RA initiation. Results: There were 154 patients included in the study. While mean reduction in A1c was numerically higher in the liraglutide group (−1.1% vs. −.8%), this was not statistically significant (P =.22). The proportion of patients achieving A1c < 7%, < 8%, < 9%, or their patient-specific A1c goal did not differ between groups. Although baseline total daily doses of insulin were higher in the semaglutide group, these patients had numerically greater reductions in total daily dose of insulin and weight from baseline; however, no statistical difference was observed. Adverse drug reactions were more common in the semaglutide group (n = 14 vs. 9), leading to higher discontinuation rates as well (n = 11 vs. 8). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate no difference between liraglutide and semaglutide in terms of A1c-lowering potential, but it provides insights into key considerations for the Veteran population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) are widely attractive by virtue of its high safety and low cost. However, their development for widespread applications is limited due to unstable cathode materials. Herein, a manganese vanadium oxide (Mn2V2O7/V2O3) (MnVO) composite is fabricated and can be utilized as a superior intercalated cathode for AZIBs. The extraction of Zn2+ from the MnVO composite causes the phase transition during the initial charge cycle to form electrochemically reversible MnV10O26·10H2O. The phase transformation modifies morphology and the as‐formed MnV10O26·10H2O phase acts as a Zn2+ host for the subsequent cycles, leading to excellent electrochemical performances. As a result, the electrode delivers a superior reversible capacity of 204 mA h g−1 at 1 A g−1 over 1000 cycles and is also sustainable over a long‐life span of 3000 cycles even at 10 A g−1. Additionally, the Zn/MnVO battery exhibits a high energy density of 256.31 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 410 W kg−1. The exceptional reversible capacity even at different current densities over a long‐life span makes them a promising candidate for fabricating the safe and reliable AZIBs. Also, the Zn2+ storage mechanism in MnVO composite cathode for rechargeable AZIBs is demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimized nutrient utilization is crucial for the progression of microorganisms in competing communities. Here we investigate how different budding yeast species and ecological isolates have established divergent preferences for two alternative sugar substrates: Glucose, which is fermented preferentially by yeast, and galactose, which is alternatively used upon induction of the relevant GAL metabolic genes. We quantified the dose‐dependent induction of the GAL1 gene encoding the central galactokinase enzyme and found that a very large diversification exists between different yeast ecotypes and species. The sensitivity of GAL1 induction correlates with the growth performance of the respective yeasts with the alternative sugar. We further define some of the mechanisms, which have established different glucose/galactose consumption strategies in representative yeast strains by modulating the activity of the Gal3 inducer. (1) Optimal galactose consumers, such as Saccharomyces uvarum, contain a hyperactive GAL3 promoter, sustaining highly sensitive GAL1 expression, which is not further improved upon repetitive galactose encounters. (2) Desensitized galactose consumers, such as S. cerevisiae Y12, contain a less sensitive Gal3 sensor, causing a shift of the galactose response towards higher sugar concentrations even in galactose experienced cells. (3) Galactose insensitive sugar consumers, such as S. cerevisiae DBVPG6044, contain an interrupted GAL3 gene, causing extremely reluctant galactose consumption, which is, however, improved upon repeated galactose availability. In summary, different yeast strains and natural isolates have evolved galactose utilization strategies, which cover the whole range of possible sensitivities by modulating the expression and/or activity of the inducible galactose sensor Gal3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, time-frequency distributions (TFDs) and their hardware implementation on FPGA are presented. TFDs are evolved due to disadvantage of Fourier Transform (FT), which cannot provide time information in spectrum representation. Time-Frequency Representations (TFRs) are helpful in providing simultaneous information about spectral contents of a signal with respect to time period axis. The major problem associated with hardware implementation of TFDs is limited on-board memory. Forward and backward register allocation method (FBRA) is employed to obtain the optimum register occupation. A register of length 32-bit is considered for the input signal representation. The stored register values are applied to the proposed TFDs and computed using real-time hardware. FBRA is implemented during the computation of FFT in all TFDs. All the transforms are modeled using Verilog code and implemented on SPARTA-6 FPGA. A real-time ECG, earthquake and a quad chirp signals are taken as input to test the designed TFDs. Finally, a comparison of different hardware resources utilized on FPGA with earlier conventional methods for better real-time applications was made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the efficacy and safety of hydroxyzine for insomnia in adults. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL databases was conducted to identify relevant published studies through October 2022 using the search terms: hydroxyzine and sleep, insomnia, sleep disorder or sleep initiation and maintenance disorders. Studies identified for review included prospective, interventional designs or cohort trials that reported impact of hydroxyzine on sleep in adults. Animal studies, case reports, non‐English articles, letters to the editor, case studies, and conference abstracts were excluded. Data were extracted using a standardized systematic process. Results: Five articles were identified for inclusion, including 1 open‐label and 4 randomized controlled trials, evaluating a total of 207 patients receiving hydroxyzine 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg at bedtime. Mixed efficacy was demonstrated in the sleep measures of sleep onset, sleep maintenance, and sleep quality. The most common adverse drug effect was dry mouth, although 4 of the 5 studies did not report safety outcomes. Conclusions: The studies in this review suggest hydroxyzine could be considered as a short‐term treatment option for adults with insomnia for whom previous therapy was ineffective, not tolerated, or contraindicated. Additional long‐term studies with an active comparator are needed to further establish its role in insomnia treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical design, photon management, and energy conversion efficiency are investigated through numerical simulation of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell using the single-diode model. A strong near-infrared reflectance of roughly 60% is present in the perovskite-based top cell. ZnO and Si3N4 anti-reflection coating layers are placed on the surface of the perovskite layer and silicon sub-cell of the tandem solar cell respectively for photon management and minimizing the near-infrared reflectance loss. ZnO will act as an electron transport layer as well as an anti-reflection coating layer. The ZnO layer will minimize the near-infrared reflectance loss by the top cell in the device structure and allow the maximum transmittance of near-infrared photon energy to the silicon sub-cell. Intermediate anti-reflection Si3N4 layer assists in the maximum localization of the transmitted near-infrared photon energy in the silicon sub-cell. The efficiency of over 32% is achieved by optimizing the parameters of different materials such as perovskite, silicon, and anti-reflection coating layer in the tandem solar cell. The innovative idea of using electron transport material ZnO as an anti-reflection coating layer in the perovskite-based top cell can minimize the reflection loss by nearly 20%. The combination of ZnO and Si3N4 anti-reflection coating layers improved the conversion efficiency of the tandem cell by 1%. This result paves the way to realize highly efficient tandem solar cells through photon management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Snakes are fascinating and form an important component of fauna and are the objects of awe and curiosity since the dawn of civilization. Snakebite is a one of the common medical emergency encountered in day today practice in India. Snake bite is completely treatable if treated in time. Immediate steps should be taken to shift the victim to the hospital as early as possible. Educate the people to avoid traditional heals so that we can reduce the time lapse for the admission of hospital. All cases of doubtful snake bites should be admitted in hospitals to watch the toxicity for proper treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective study conducted in the Emergency Department of Medicine at Tertiary Care Hospital among 80 Adult patients admitted with history of snakebite over a period of 1 year were studied. Inclusion criteria: All patients with history of snakebite and with at least one of the following criteria were included in the study. Patients or attenders have seen the offending snake. Definite fang marks are noted. Features of local or systemic envenomation. RESULTS: Limbs 75 (93.66%) are the commonest site for bite. Among the limbs lower limbs were commonest site 39 (48.75%), followed closely by upper limb bite 36 (45.0%). Four patients had unusual sites of bite, three on face and one over right scapula, all four bites occurred while patients were asleep. The incidence of venomous snakebites was 70 patients (87.5%), whereas non-poisonous constituted only 12.5%. Among poisonous bites neurotoxic manifestations 37 (52.86%) were more common than hemorrhagic manifestations 33 (47.14%). CONCLUSION: Early hospitalization and timely ASV was the corner stone in the treatment of snakebite. Still majority of the patients do not seek medical attention immediately. Most of them visit traditional healers. Thus, there is a need for giving health education regarding the snakebites, their toxic effects, effectiveness of hospitalization, ASV therapy in bites and prevention of snakebite by appropriate measures. This will definitely reduce the incidence and complications of snakebites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Snakes are fascinating and form an important component of fauna and are the objects of awe and curiosity since the dawn of civilization. Snakebite is a one of the common medical emergency encountered in day today practice in India. Snake bite is completely treatable if treated in time. Immediate steps should be taken to shift the victim to the hospital as early as possible. Educate the people to avoid traditional heals so that we can reduce the time lapse for the admission of hospital. All cases of doubtful snake bites should be admitted in hospitals to watch the toxicity for proper treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective study conducted in the Emergency Department of Medicine at Tertiary Care Hospital among 80 Adult patients admitted with history of snakebite over a period of 1 year were studied. Inclusion criteria: All patients with history of snakebite and with at least one of the following criteria were included in the study. Patients or attenders have seen the offending snake. Definite fang marks are noted. Features of local or systemic envenomation. RESULTS: Limbs 75 (93.66%) are the commonest site for bite. Among the limbs lower limbs were commonest site 39 (48.75%), followed closely by upper limb bite 36 (45.0%). Four patients had unusual sites of bite, three on face and one over right scapula, all four bites occurred while patients were asleep. The incidence of venomous snakebites was 70 patients (87.5%), whereas non-poisonous constituted only 12.5%. Among poisonous bites neurotoxic manifestations 37 (52.86%) were more common than hemorrhagic manifestations 33 (47.14%). CONCLUSION: Early hospitalization and timely ASV was the corner stone in the treatment of snakebite. Still majority of the patients do not seek medical attention immediately. Most of them visit traditional healers. Thus, there is a need for giving health education regarding the snakebites, their toxic effects, effectiveness of hospitalization, ASV therapy in bites and prevention of snakebite by appropriate measures. This will definitely reduce the incidence and complications of snakebites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oculomotor triangle is denoted as the "Triangle of Hakuba" or the "Hakuba's Triangle." This oculomotor triangle is a significant anatomical landmark. Oculomotor nerve, abducens nerve and part of the internal carotid artery (ICA) lie in this triangle. The determination of this analysis is to calculate the oculomotor triangle in dry processed skull bones of the south Indian population and its clinical significance. Fifty-one processed skulls of human origin were received from Anatomy Department, Basic Medical Sciences, Saveetha Dental College. Length from anterior–clinoid process (ACP) to posterior–clinoid process (PCP), length from PCP to APEX, and length from ACP to APEX were measured. Paired samples t-test was considered to analyze the values between the right triangle with the left triangle. From the measurements taken, the mean for the left side of the oculomotor triangle, ACP to PCP was 8.0591 ± 0.52 mm and the right side was 7.5482 ± 0.52 mm. The mean left side of the oculomotor triangle, measured from PCP to APEX was 6.73 ± 0.48 mm and the right side was 6.55 ± 0.72 mm. The mean of the left side of the oculomotor triangle, measured from ACP to APEX was 15.94 ± 0.682 mm and the right side was 16.21 ± 0.747 mm. Through this paired triangle of the cranial cavity, the horizontal section of ICA may be correlated with numerous vascular-related pathological considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Hierarchical micro/nanostructures are believed to be magnificent electrocatalyst materials capable of competing with noble metals and the most expensive catalyst materials for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, Mn2V2O7‐based hierarchical spiked ball structures (MVO SBs) were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal technique as a bifunctional oxygen catalyst for rechargeable Zn‐air batteries. The linear sweep voltammetry by a rotating disc electrode was used to investigate the ORR and OER properties and their mechanisms, and the charge transfer mechanism was also studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis. When compared with platinum with carbon black (Pt/C), the MVO SB catalyst material exhibited comparable ORR and OER properties. Furthermore, the MVO SB material revealed a 4e− transfer pathway in an electrolyte solution. Furthermore, the prepared MVO SB material demonstrated a lower charge‐discharge voltage gap when compared with Pt/C material, which is lower than 180 mV at 45 mA cm−2. The cycling test result of MVO SB catalyst sample revealed excellent cycling stability over 50 charging and discharging cycles (~800 min) than the Pt/C sample (30 cycles [~520 min]). The good catalytic activity and excellent structural stability of the MVO SB material are especially due to the more active sites enhanced by the unique spiked ball‐like morphology and high specific surface area (11.70 m2 g−1) properties. The achieved results suggest that the synthesized catalyst material could be employed as an oxygen catalyst material for rechargeable Zn‐air batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During periods of drought, the irrigation needs of current warm‐season turfgrass cultivars and frequent municipal water use restrictions present a major challenge to the turfgrass industry. Turfgrass breeding programs have responded by placing more emphasis on improved drought response. During 2012–2013, 560 genotypes of four warm‐season turfgrass species developed by five southern breeding programs were evaluated for drought response in replicated field trials at seven locations. Breeders selected 35 genotypes as drought‐tolerant selections (DTS) for further evaluation. The objectives of this study were to verify superior drought response among DTS under short‐term drought conditions and to assess the effectiveness of this approach as a viable breeding strategy to improve drought response in warm‐season turfgrasses. Forty‐seven genotypes including standard commercial cultivars of zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp. Willd.), bermudagrass [Cynodon spp. (L.) Pers.], St. Augustinegrass [Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kuntze], and seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Swartz) were exposed to dry‐downs in three consecutive years by withholding irrigation and excluding rainfall. Significant differences in drought performance were seen across genotypes over the multiyear study. Statistical contrasts found that DTS of zoysiagrass, St. Augustinegrass, and seashore paspalum generally performed better than the standard cultivars. Top‐performing DTS zoysiagrass and St. Augustinegrass genotypes maintained >50% green cover longer than the average of the standard cultivars. Based on this research, multilocational screening for drought tolerance was effective in selection of new genotypes with superior performance to standard cultivars and continued screening of turfgrass germplasm to identify new drought‐tolerant genotypes is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The controlled development of mixed phases of transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) electrodes with hierarchical nanostructures overcomes the limited contribution of pure TMDC compositions, which is desirable to achieve superior electrochemical performance. Herein, the flower‐like NiMo3S4/NiS2 (NMS/NS) nanostructures with mixed‐phase nature were grown on conductive carbon cloth (ie, NMS/NS@CC‐210) at 210°C (24 h) by a hydrothermal method. Importantly, the uniform flower‐like nanostructured NMS/NS@CC‐210 electrode revealed battery‐like performance with a superior specific capacitance of 1448 F g−1 (480 C g−1 at 1 A g−1) than the other NMS/NS@CC (180°C, 190°C, and 200°C) electrodes at different reaction temperatures as well as single counterparts of MoS2 (MS)@CC‐210 and NiS2(NS)@CC‐210 electrodes. The presence of plenty of lattice defects in NMS/NS@CC‐210 electrode structure is favored to the exposure of several electrochemical active sites for rapid transportation of electron and electrolyte diffusion, resulting in better cycling retention (83%) behavior than the pure MoS2@CC (50%) and NiS2@CC (68%) electrodes after successive 5000 cycles. Using the optimized NMS/NS@CC‐210 electrode, an asymmetric electrochemical capacitor was fabricated, and its electrochemical behavior was evaluated in a two‐electrode system. The NMS/NS@CC‐210//activated carbon (AC)@CC device delivered its superior energy and power densities of 43.8 W h kg−1 and 12 853 W kg−1, respectively. Finally, two flexible NMS/NS@CC‐210//AC@CC devices with similar features were made and successfully powered the 3‐V‐based light‐emitting diodes and display portable electronics for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nanofiller assisted curing of epoxy at ambient temperature is investigated. • Uniform dispersion of nanofiller as observed from HR-TEM images encourages thermal stress transfer. • The interface thickness of ∼1.16 nm obtained from Lipatov's theory can be assigned to efficient curing. • Higher activation energy and char yield for the nanocomposite with respect to neat epoxy suggests high crosslink density. Epoxy curing requires substantial thermal energy input and is constrained by the specimen's scale, shape, and design, especially with autoclave processing. This challenge is addressed in the present study by incorporating Silicon Nitride (SiN) nanoparticles into an epoxy matrix to enhance curing efficiency at room temperature. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) demonstrated a uniform dispersion of nanofillers within the epoxy, indicating improved mechanical and thermal stress transfer between the matrix and the filler. The interphase thickness, determined to be 1.16 nm using Lipatov's theory and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms, suggests excellent matrix-filler interaction and a significant increase in cross-link density. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed an increase in activation energy by 63 %, 101 %, and 113 % at heating rates of 10, 20, and 30 °C/min, respectively, indicating enhanced thermal stability of the nanocomposite. Additionally, the char yield increased by 7 %, 18 %, and 22 % at the same heating rates, signifying the formation of effective crosslinks, leading to a higher proportion of solid remnants rather than volatiles during degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, in-situ preparation of metal oxide composite structures has gained much importance in fabricating electrode materials for energy storage and conversion devices because of its advantageous properties of beneficial interfacial contact, high conductivity, good synergism, short ion diffusion distance, better electrochemical performance, etc. Binary transition metal oxides (BTMOs) are given great attention for their significant electrochemical performances over primary MOs because of the two metal ions with different valent states for the redox reactions. In this study, we synthesize zinc cobalt oxide (ZnCo 2 O 4) and zinc manganese oxide (ZnMn 2 O 4) composite via a solvothermal synthetic method. The existence of both phases is identified using an X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The unique coral reef -like structures of the composite electrode are analysed via field emission scanning electron microscopy, and the nanostructure was identified using transmission electron microscopy. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the surface oxidation states of the composite and supports the XRD analysis. The synergetic composite electrode provides a large surface area of 50.86 m2 g−1 with many pores. The composite electrode has a specific capacity of 250 C g−1 at 1 A g−1. The ZCO/ZMO composite demonstrated impressive stability, retaining a specific capacity of 180 C g−1 at 6 A g−1 over 5000 cycles. [Display omitted] • The ZnCo 2 O 4 /ZnMn 2 O 4 composite was synthesized via a solvothermal method. • The synergistic electrode has coral reef -like morphological structures. • The ZnCo 2 O 4 /ZnMn 2 O 4 composite has Co3+ and Mn4+ dominance states. • The ZCO/ZMO composite has a higher surface area of 50.86 m2 g−1. • The composite has a good stability of 90% of the initial capacity after 5000 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Magnesium cobalt oxide (MgCo2O4) hexagonal nanoplates were prepared via a fast and simple co‐precipitation process. The electrochemical properties of MgCo2O4 nanostructures were characterized by various techniques. Furthermore, the MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanoplate material was used for supercapacitors. In three‐electrode scheme, MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanoplate electrode demonstrated a good specific capacity of 164 mAh g−1 at 3 A g−1. Furthermore, an aqueous asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) using MgCo2O4//activated carbon (AC) was also fabricated. The MgCo2O4//AC delivered 39 mAh g−1 of specific capacity at 1 A g−1. It revealed the high energy density of 28.34 W h kg−1 with the power density of 363 W kg−1 with the current density of 0.5 A g−1. The impressive electrochemical performance is mainly associated to high surface area of 55 m2 g−1 resulted from voids/gaps in‐between hexagonal nanoplates of MgCo2O4. Also, a toy motor fan, 11 light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), and a kitchen timer were functionalized by series linked two ASCs for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planning and developing resilient socio-technical and natural systems to cope with and respond to unprecedented changes has been one of the top goals of government bodies, researchers, and practitioners worldwide. This study aims to review how resilience is defined and evaluated in water resources and infrastructure systems (hereafter water systems) and propose a framework to analyze and incorporate resilience in the system. Two questions guide the review: How is resilience defined in water systems compared to other disciplines? What are commonly used resilience measures and methods applicable to water systems? Based on the review, a resilience analysis framework has been proposed. The framework uses a system of systems approach and applies hierarchical holographic modeling to address the complexity of interdependent systems. The resilience of the systems was analyzed using three questions: resilience of what, resilience to what, and resilience for whom. Two resilience measures selected for the analysis are robustness and rapidity. The framework also includes methods for uncertainty analysis, options for resilience strategies, and multi-criteria decision analysis methods to select optimal resilience options. The review is not exhaustive due to the broader topic but aims to present necessary background information to support the proposed framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly secure communication method is essential for end users for the exchange of information which is not interpreted by an intruder. Cryptography plays a crucial role in the current and upcoming digital worlds, for secure data transmission in wired and wireless networks. Asymmetric and symmetric cryptographic algorithms encrypt data against vulnerable attacks and transfer to authenticated users. Steganography is a method for providing secure information with the help of a carrier file (text, video, audio, image, etc.). This paper proposes Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)-based asymmetric algorithm which is used to encrypt the patient's secret information and its performance is compared with ElGamal, RSA and Diffie–Hellman (DH) cryptographic algorithms. The proposed asymmetric algorithm is applied to image steganography which is used for encrypting and concealing the patient's secret information in a cover image. The proposed method consumes less hardware resources with improved latency. Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration (DPR) allows to transform a selective area rather than complete shutdown of the entire system during bitstream configuration. Cryptosystem with DPR is designed, synthesized in Xilinx Vivado and simulated in Vivado simulator. The design is targeted at Basys3, Nexys4 DDR and Zync-7000 all-programmable SOC (AP SoC) architectures and programmed with secure partial bit files to avoid vulnerable attacks in the channel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oddity in large information is rising step by step so that the current programming instruments faces trouble in supervision of huge information. Moreover, the pace of the irregularity information in the immense datasets is a key imperative to the exploration business. Along these lines, this paper proposes a novel method for taking care of the large information utilizing Spark structure. The proposed method experiences two stages for arranging the enormous information, which includes highlight choice and arrangement, which is acted in the underlying hubs of Spark engineering. The proposed improvement calculation is named Rider Chaotic Biography streamlining (RCBO) calculation, which is the incorporation of the Rider Optimization Algorithm (ROA) and the standard confused biogeography-based-advancement (CBBO). The proposed RCBO-profound stacked auto-encoder utilizing Spark structure successfully handles the large information for achieving powerful huge information arrangement. Here, the proposed RCBO is utilized for choosing reasonable highlights from the monstrous dataset. Besides, the profound stacked auto-encoder utilizes RCBO for preparing so as to characterize colossal datasets. In this research we focused on problem of supervision related to big information of The Cover type Data in UCI machine learning repository. The dataset describes the forest cover set data to predict the forest cover type from cartographic variables. The dataset is multivariate in nature with number of web hits 263,361. The number of instances is 581012 with 54 numbers of attributes and the task associated for the dataset is classification. The examination of the proposed RCBO-profound stacked auto-encoder-based Spark structure utilizing the UCI AI datasets uncovered that the proposed technique beat different strategies, by procuring maximal exactness of 86.71%, dice coefficient of 92.7%, affectability of 75.2% and explicitness of 95.4% separately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer nanocomposite films, comprising of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) as the matrix and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles as reinforcement, have been prepared using ultrasonication and spin-coating techniques, with ZnO content up to 20 wt.%. The effect of the processing on the microstructure and nanomechanical properties have been investigated. The nanocomposite film thickness is found to vary from 2.4 ± 0.2 µm for pristine PMMA to 33.1 ± 0.5 µm for PMMA/20 wt.% ZnO nanocomposite. Quasi-static nanoindentation showed that the indentation modulus varied from 4.68 ± 0.07 GPa for pristine PMMA to 5.04 ± 0.14 GPa for PMMA/20 wt.% ZnO nanocomposite, while the indentation hardness varied from 275.94 ± 5.67 MPa to 292.39 ± 10.88 MPa in the same range. However, the highest indentation modulus and the highest hardness are exhibited by PMMA/10 wt.% ZnO nanocomposite. Scanning electron microscopy of the synthesized films provided the evidence behind such variation in material properties. In addition, the experimentally obtained elastic moduli were compared with values predicted by using Eshelby-Mori-Tanaka micromechanics. Nanoindenter-based dynamic mechanical analysis of the PMMA nanocomposite thin films revealed the variation of storage modulus, loss modulus and loss factor of the films in the frequency range of 10 Hz to 201.5 Hz. For all PMMA/ZnO nanocomposites, the storage modulus is found to increase monotonically from 10 Hz to ∼100 Hz, beyond which the values reached a plateau. The loss modulus and loss factor for all PMMA/ZnO nanocomposites are found to decrease with increasing frequency. These results form an essential step toward establishing process-structure-nanomechanical property relationships for PMMA/ZnO nanocomposite films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multiple viral warts represent a frustrating challenge for both patients and physicians. Management is difficult, primarily due to recalcitrance to standard therapy and high recurrence rates. Recently, intralesional antigen immunotherapy has shown promising efficacy in the treatment of warts. Objective: The aim of our study was to compare efficacy and safety of intralesional PPD versus measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in the management of multiple warts. Materials and Methods: One hundred and five patients having multiple warts were randomly divided into group A (PPD), group B (MMR) and group C (normal saline), with 35 patients in each group. In each group, the largest wart was injected intralesionally with 0.1 mL of vaccine at 2 weeks interval until complete clearance or for a maximum of 8 weeks. Results: Out of 105 patients enrolled in the study, 27, 25, and 21 patients completed the study in group A, group B, and group C, respectively. Rest were lost to follow up due to various reasons such as pain and long treatment duration. Complete clearance was seen in 14 patients (51.85%) in group A, 14 patients (56%) in group B, and 0 patients in group C. Partial clearance was seen in four patients (14.81%) in group A, four patients (16%) in group B, and three (14.28%) patients in group C. Nine patients (33.33%) in group A, seven patients (28%) in group B and 18 (85.71%) patients in group C did not respond to immunotherapy. Conclusions: Intralesional immunotherapy by both vaccines is a promising, effective, and safe treatment modality with MMR having slight edge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Insects are susceptible to dehydration, and change in atmospheric humidity could affect their fitness. To understand the impacts of humidity changes on insect's reproductive fitness, we released an outcrossed Drosophila melanogaster population to outdoor mesocosm units (1.5 × 1.5 × 1.5 m in dimension) and tracked their fecundity over 90 days under progressively developing summer season. The study was carried out in a tropical urban garden. 2. The experimental design included tracking an out‐crossed D. melanogaster population over 90 days in two sets of cages. One set of population was kept under outdoor conditions. The second set was maintained under laboratory conditions where only temperature was controlled. For 90 days, data on daily egg laying were collected for both indoor and outdoor cages. This design helped us to see temperature and humidity impact on reproductive output both in combination and separately. 3. Often temperature has been found to be the key player in changes in reproductive output in a considerable number of laboratory‐based studies. Our work suggested that 'temperature‐humidity' interactions determine the physiological state of an organism which could untimely impact organismal fitness in a given environmental set‐up. This work indicated that under natural conditions fecundity in Drosophila populations was significantly influenced by relative humidity and its interaction with temperature. 4. Our results suggested that while temperature was an important parameter for fecundity, relative humidity individually and in combination with temperature also played an important role in Drosophila reproductive output. Thus, the combination of temperature and relative humidity was a better metric to predict the fecundity in Drosophila populations than considering these parameters individually under natural conditions. It clearly indicated that future warming events could drastically impact insects' reproductive output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress is a major abiotic stress that damages cool‐season turfgrasses, such as tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), during summer months. Heat stress results in oxidative damage, reductions in photosynthesis, and ultimately can cause plant death. Exogenous applications of 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) have previously been demonstrated to improve abiotic stress tolerance in a number of crops by improving chlorophyll levels and reducing oxidative damage, two major indicators of heat stress in plants. Experiments were conducted in growth chamber conditions to determine the effect of ALA application on heat stress in tall fescue plants and to confirm if ALA could alleviate damage related to inhibited photosynthesis or oxidative damages associated with high temperature. A rate of 100 mg L−1 ALA was determined to be effective in eliciting positive tall fescue responses during heat stress with plants maintaining better visual characteristics. Plants treated with ALA had greater levels of chlorophyll as well as photosynthetic performance under heat stress than plants that were not treated with ALA. Additionally, ALA plants had reduced oxidative damage associated with greater antioxidant activities of the enzymes catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR). The use of ALA was demonstrated to be effective in reducing heat stress related damages in tall fescue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider approximability of two optimization problems called Minimum Open k-Monopoly (Min-Open-k-Monopoly) and Minimum Partial Open k-Monopoly (Min-P-Open-k-Monopoly), where k is a fixed positive integer. The objective, in Min-Open-k-Monopoly, is to find a minimum cardinality vertex set S ⊆ V in a given graph G = (V,E) such that | N (v) ∩ S | ≥ 1 2 | N (v) | + k , for every vertex v ∈ V. On the other hand, given a graph G = (V,E), in Min-P-Open-k-Monopoly it is required to find a minimum cardinality vertex set S ⊆ V such that | N (v) ∩ S | ≥ 1 2 | N (v) | + k , for every v ∈ V ∖ S. We prove that Min-Open-k-Monopoly and Min-P-Open-k-Monopoly are approximable within a factor of O (log n) . Then, we show that these two problems cannot be approximated within a factor of (1 3 − 𝜖) ln n and (1 4 − 𝜖) ln n , respectively, for any 𝜖 > 0, unless N P ⊆ D t i m e (n O (log log n)). For 4-regular graphs, we prove that these two problems are APX-complete. Min-Open-1-Monopoly can be approximated within a factor of 26 21 ≈ 1.2381 where as Min-P-Open-1-Monopoly can be approximated within a factor of 1.65153. For k ≥ 2, we also present approximation algorithms for these two problems for (2k + 2)-regular graphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Dense PSS and PDADMA saloplastics are prepared via a simple hot-press approach. • These saloplastics function as anion-exchange membranes. • Water uptake, resistance ion exchange capacity comparable to commercial membranes. • Long term stability (up to 60 days) observed in extreme alkaline and acidic conditions. • The membranes show relevant monovalent selectivity for chloride over sulphate ions. Polymeric ion-exchange membranes have come a long way since their invention, benefiting a wide range of processes, ranging from desalination to fuel cells. However, challenges such as alkaline stability, monovalent ion selectivity, cost-effectivity, and process sustainability largely persist. This work showcases alkaline stable anion-exchange membranes made by hot-pressing of a polyelectrolyte complex of poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) and poly(diallyldimethylammonium) (PDADMA). This completely aqueous production approach leads to especially dense (non-porous) saloplastic films with an excess of cationic groups, demonstrating good stability even at high salinities (up to 2 M NaCl). On key performance indicators for anion exchange membranes, such as water uptake (~40%), permselectivity (up to 97%), ion exchange capacity (1.01 mmol g−1), and resistance (2.3 O·cm2) the membranes show comparable values to commercial membranes. A drop in permselectivity at high salinities, however, indicates that the charge density of the membranes could be further improved. Still, what really sets these membranes apart is their natural long term (up to 60 days) stability at extreme acidic (pH 0) and alkaline conditions (pH 14) and a relevant monovalent selectivity of up to 6.3 for Cl− over SO 4 2−. Overall this work showcases PDADMA/PSS based saloplastics as highly promising and stable anion-exchange membranes, that can be produced by a simple, scalable, and sustainable approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to compare drought resistance in a range of seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Sw.) genotypes and identify associated morphological and physiological traits. Fifteen genotypes were grown in growth chamber conditions and exposed to well‐watered and drought‐stress treatments. Genotypes 'Seaisle1' and PI647891 were consistent top performers, whereas 'Seastar' and PI614680 performed poorly as measured by turf quality, percentage green cover, and relative water content when exposed to drought stress. Observed levels of drought resistance had no significant relation with morphological traits such as leaf width and internode length but were found to be associated with various physiological traits. Drought resistant genotypes were able to better maintain membrane stability, photosynthesis, and had greater water use efficiency compared with sensitive genotypes. Earlier osmotic adjustment at 7 d via faster osmolyte accumulation was a significant contributor to performance during drought. Drought‐resistant Seaisle1 and PI647891 had deeper roots and greater root length density than drought sensitive 'Seastar' and PI614680. Results showing variability in the level of drought resistance and associated mechanisms in understudied seashore paspalum genotypes could facilitate future breeding efforts for developing drought‐resistant turfgrass cultivars. Core Ideas: Drought is a major stress that damages the warm‐season turfgrass Seashore paspalumControlled environment studies explored drought resistance among Seashore paspalum genotypesMembrane stability, osmotic adjustment and maintenance of photosynthesis were important traits [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Questions: What will happen to species diversity in a forest when exploitation of the canopy foliage terminates? The foliage of the main canopy tree of a mountain evergreen oak forest was harvested at different intensities prior to a forest survey in 1993 and resampled in 2013 after the harvest of canopy foliage ceased (1995). We predict a decrease in herbaceous species richness with increasing canopy cover, and an opposite trend for vines and woody species. We hypothesise that plant species' alpha and beta diversity will change most in the plots where foliage was most intensively harvested while showing less change in the plots that underwent almost no harvesting. Location: Temperate evergreen laurel–oak forest in the Himalaya, Nepal. Methods: We resampled all non‐epiphytic vascular plants in 64 plots of 10 m × 10 m in 2013, following the same protocol used in 1993. Plant species were categorised into three life forms; woody (except woody vines), herbaceous, and vines. Uni‐ and multivariate numerical methods were used to assess the significance of the changes in species diversity for different life forms. Results: Vines and woody species increased, whereas herbaceous species decreased, but overall gamma diversity remained unchanged. The overall alpha richness for herbaceous species decreased, while the opposite is true for woody and vine richness. Herbaceous richness decreased and woody richness increased in the areas with low and intermediate disturbance (in 1993), whereas vines remained unchanged. Only vine richness increased in the area that was very disturbed in 1993. Total species richness as well as herbaceous and vine richness decreased with increasing tree canopy cover. Conclusions: Plots that were intensively harvested in 1993 did not recover their richness because vines dominated the forest floor. Management should prevent overexploitation, and only allow low‐intensity canopy disturbance, which may facilitate habitat diversity and thereby enhance species richness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target detection is one of the important subfields in the research of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). It faces several challenges, due to the stationary objects, leading to the presence of scatter signal. Many researchers have succeeded on target detection, and this work introduces an approach for moving target detection in SAR. The newly developed scheme named Adaptive Particle Fuzzy System for Moving Target Detection (APFS-MTD) as the scheme utilizes the particle swarm optimization (PSO), adaptive, and fuzzy linguistic rules in APFS for identifying the target location. Initially, the received signals from the SAR are fed through the Generalized Radon-Fourier Transform (GRFT), Fractional Fourier Transform (FrFT), and matched filter to calculate the correlation using Ambiguity Function (AF). Then, the location of target is identified in the search space and is forwarded to the proposed APFS. The proposed APFS is the modification of standard Adaptive genetic fuzzy system using PSO. The performance of the MTD based on APFS is evaluated based on detection time, missed target rate, and Mean Square Error (MSE). The developed method achieves the minimal detection time of 4.13 s, minimal MSE of 677.19, and the minimal moving target rate of 0.145, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prospective cohort study investigating patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) was conducted to determine the prevalence of dysfunctional breathing and if continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy improves associated symptoms. Almost half of newly diagnosed patients with OSA had dysfunctional breathing and CPAP was not an effective treatment. Dysfunctional breathing is common in patients with OSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hierarchical nanostructure materials have attracted significant attention due to their fascinating structural features for the application of high-performance supercapacitors. In this report, nanosheets interconnected hierarchical NiCo2S4 (NCS) nanospheres were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The growth process was explored by performing different reaction temperature conditions (140, 150, 160, and 170 °C), and their electrochemical properties were studied. The electrochemical properties of NCS products (coated on conductive Ni foam substrate) at different reaction temperatures were measured in a traditional three-electrode electrochemical system. The optimized hierarchical NCS nanospheres (prepared at 150 °C) delivered better electrochemical results due to their synergetic morphological features and higher specific surface area. The NCS-150 nanospheres–based electrode exhibited its maximum specific capacity of 155 mA h g−1 at 2 A g−1 and further showed a good capacity retention value of 115 mA h g−1 at a higher current density of 5 A g−1. Besides, cycling analysis was proceeded up to 4000 cycles to test the practical ability of the designed electrode, and it retained 76% of capacity after performing the cycles. These results demonstrate that the nanosheets interconnected hierarchical NCS nanospheres (prepared at 150 °C) could be a promising electrode material for high-performance supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought and salt are two major stresses of turfgrass. Both damage the plant root system by disrupting osmotic balance at the root–soil interface. The objectives of our hydroponic experiments were to understand root physiological and biochemical responses in two turfgrass species (seashore paspalum [Paspalum vaginatum Swartz] and centipedegrass [Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) Hack.]) with distinct salinity tolerance exposed to iso‐osmotic drought and salt stresses. Two seashore paspalum genotypes, 'Seastar' and 'UGP113', and a centipedegrass genotype, 'TifBlair', were exposed to three treatments: control, salt stress (−0.4 MPa by adding NaCl), and drought stress (−0.4 MPa by adding polyethylene glycol). Although equal in osmotic potential, drought stress damage was more evident compared with salt stress in terms of lipid peroxidation and decreased root viability in all three turfgrass genotypes. Salt stress reduced root viability only in the centipedegrass genotype, indicating ion toxicity effects in this turfgrass genotype. Seashore paspalum genotypes had greater total accumulation of Na+ and K+ for greater root osmotic adjustment than centipedegrass under salt stress. Seashore paspalum genotypes also had greater activities of root antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and glutathione reductase compared with centipedegrass under salt stress. In contrast, centipedegrass had greater total accumulation of total soluble sugar and proline for greater osmotic adjustment compared with seashore paspalum genotypes under drought stress. Despite greater accumulation of organic osmolytes, activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and glutathione reductase in centipedegrass were either lower or similar to those in seashore paspalum genotypes, and therefore centipedegrass accumulated similar oxidative damage as seashore paspalum genotypes under drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhibition of metabolic re-programming represents an attractive approach for prevention of prostate cancer. Studies have implicated increased synthesis of fatty acids or glycolysis in pathogenesis of human prostate cancers. We have shown previously that prostate cancer prevention by sulforaphane (SFN) in Transgenic Adenocarcinoma of Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) model is associated with inhibition of fatty acid metabolism. This study utilized human prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP, 22Rv1 and PC-3), two different transgenic mouse models (TRAMP and Hi-Myc) and plasma specimens from a clinical study to explore the glycolysis inhibition potential of SFN. We found that SFN treatment: (i) decreased real-time extracellular acidification rate in LNCaP, but not in PC-3 cell line; (ii) significantly downregulated expression of hexokinase II (HKII), pyruvate kinase M2 and/or lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) in vitro in cells and in vivo in neoplastic lesions in the prostate of TRAMP and Hi-Myc mice; and (iii) significantly suppressed glycolysis in prostate of Hi-Myc mice as measured by ex vivo 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy. SFN treatment did not decrease glucose uptake or expression of glucose transporters in cells. Overexpression of c-Myc, but not constitutively active Akt, conferred protection against SFN-mediated downregulation of HKII and LDHA protein expression and suppression of lactate levels. Examination of plasma lactate levels in prostate cancer patients following administration of an SFN-rich broccoli sprout extract failed to show declines in its levels. Additional clinical trials are needed to determine whether SFN treatment can decrease lactate production in human prostate tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lowest singlet and triplet electronic levels of the A′ and A″ symmetry species of the neutral copper-nitrosyl (CuNO) system are calculated by ab initio methods at the multi-reference configuration interaction (MRCI) level of theory with single and double excitations, and at the coupled cluster level of theory with both perturbational (CCSD(T)) and full inclusion of triple excitations (CCSDT). Experimental data are difficult to obtain, hence the importance of carrying out calculations as accurate as possible to address the structure and dynamics of this system. This paper aims at validating a theoretical protocol to develop global potential energy surfaces for transition metal nitrosyl complexes. For the MRCI calculations, the comparison of level energies at linear structures and their values from C2v and Cs symmetry restricted calculations has allowed to obtain clear settings regarding atomic basis sizes, active orbital spaces and roots obtained at the multi-configurational self-consistent field (MCSCF) level of theory. It is shown that a complete active space involving 18 valence electrons, 11 molecular orbitals and the prior determination of 12 roots in the MCSCF calculation is needed for overall qualitatively correct results from the MRCI calculations. Atomic basis sets of the valence triple-zeta type are sufficient. The present calculations yield a bound singlet A′ ground state for CuNO. The CCSD(T) calculations give a quantitatively more reliable account of electronic correlation close to equilibrium, while the MRCI energies allow to ensure the qualitative assessment needed for global potential energy surfaces. Relativistic coupled cluster calculations using the Douglas-Kroll-Hess Hamiltonian yield a dissociation energy of CuNO into Cu and NO to be (59 ± 5) kJ mol-1 ((4940 ± 400) hc cm-1). Favorable comparison is made with some of previous theoretical results and a few known experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]