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The 2020 US election witnessed a surge of false claims on social media platforms asserting electoral fraud. Consequently, we ask the question, would greater online political engagement reduce perceived electoral integrity? We also explore whether the effects of online political participation on electoral integrity are contingent upon partisanship and news literacy. We use responses from a two-wave online panel survey conducted in the US before the November 2020 Presidential elections. Autoregressive regression models are employed to test the hypotheses. First, the findings suggest that those who engaged in greater online political engagement were more likely to doubt electoral integrity. Next, Republicans and those with lower levels of news literacy were also more skeptical of the electoral process. Further, moderation analyses suggest that the adverse effects of online political participation on perceived electoral integrity were more significant for Democrats and Independents than Republicans (perhaps because of ceiling effects). Finally, the relationship between online political participation and evaluations of electoral integrity is not contingent upon news literacy. Overall, the findings offer insight into how online political participation may erode electoral integrity for online users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the role of social media in the Black Lives Matter (BLM) Movement by examining how social media news use impacts BLM protest action. Theoretically, we go beyond the frequently discussed relationship between social media and protest participation and examine how grievances, political efficacy, and racial identity conditionally impact the influence of social media on protest engagement. The findings suggest that social media news use amplifies, rather than reduces, the gaps between engaged and disengaged citizens regarding protest participation, particularly in the online sphere. These indicate that social media is not an equalizing tool for BLM participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global issue and can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is an important marker of HBV infection and HBsAg quantification could be a useful tool in clinical practice. This systematic literature review aimed to explore the association between HBsAg titres and long‐term disease outcomes and evaluate the relationship between HBsAg titres, or changes in HBsAg titres, and clinical and treatment characteristics in patients with chronic HBV infection. Structured searches were performed in MEDLINE and Embase (January 2000 to 31 March 2023). Eighty‐two studies were included, comprising 51% retrospective cohort studies, mostly conducted in Asia (85%). HBsAg levels were shown to predict the long‐term development of cirrhosis and HCC in patients who were untreated prior to and during follow‐up; however, these data were inconclusive in mixed and treated populations. HBsAg titres were significantly associated with various virological markers including serum HBV DNA, HBcrAg, HBeAg, HBV RNA levels, intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and intrahepatic HBsAg expression. HBsAg titres generally declined over time; this decline was more pronounced in early (HBeAg‐positive) than later disease phases (HBeAg‐negative). Higher decline in HBsAg levels was consistently associated with subsequent HBsAg seroclearance and a greater decline in total intrahepatic HBV DNA and cccDNA levels. In conclusion, this review showed that HBsAg levels and rates of decline could inform assessment, management and prediction of outcomes in chronic HBV infection. Further studies in broader, more diverse populations and treated patients are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islam places significant emphasis on mental health, urging Muslims to approach it holistically. Until now, this characterization serves as a starting point for discussing the definition and scope of Islamic spiritual care. This research aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of al-Balkhi's contributions to Islamic psychology and their relevance to modern mental health practice. The methodology utilized in this research is a literature review that synthesized information from scientific texts, research reports, and historical accounts related to alBalkhi's work. This review synthesizes Abu Zayd al-Balkhi's pioneering contributions to Islamic mental health principles, focusing on his seminal work Masalih al-Abdan Wa al-Anfus (Sustenance of the Body and Soul). This review highlights the enduring relevance of al-Balkhi's insights in mental health care, advocating for a holistic approach rooted in Islamic principles. His classifications of depressive states and therapeutic methods, like exposure-based treatments, still influence modern psychotherapy. Al-Balkhi's holistic view emphasizes the link between spiritual and physical well-being. Analyzing his theories alongside current knowledge aids in diagnosing consistently and guiding therapy effectively. Integrating historical perspectives can enhance culturally sensitive mental health interventions within Muslim communities, respecting diverse cultural contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urge for more complicated, sophisticated electrically active heat transfer devices, has intensified nowadays thus requiring a more critical thermal management issue. The generation of higher heat flux needs to be tackled efficiently as to avoid performance deterioration to the devices. The conventional active heat transfer method alone has limitations, especially in terms of space. This paper studies the effect of Al2O3:SiO2 hybrid nanofluids with 0.5% volume concentration in water as an alternative coolant in a single cooling plate. Five different ratios of hybrid Al2O3:SiO2 nanofluids were investigated ranging from 10:90 to 50:50 (Al2O3:SiO2) mixture ratio. Two types of cooling plates were studied which were Serpentine and Distributor type cooling plates. These plates were fabricated from carbon graphite which is commonly used in a liquid-cooled Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC). In conclusion, the R1 (10:90) Al2O3:SiO2 hybrid nanofluids were shown as the most prominent ratio in heat transfer improvement and Serpentine shows the most feasible cooling plate with higher convective heat transfer and lower pumping power than the Distributor plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective In-phase and opposed-phase chemical shift imaging (CSI) is a useful technique for assessing skeletal lesions. This study determined the frequency of significant differences in measurements obtained from longitudinal (coronal or sagittal) sequences to those obtained from axial sequences. Methods Chemical shift imaging was undertaken in 96 consecutive patients referred from the Musculoskeletal Sarcoma and Spinal Oncology services for assessment of possible bone tumours as part of a standard tumour protocol, which included turbo spin echo and inversion recovery sequences. For spinal lesions, CSI was obtained in the sagittal and axial planes, while for all other sites, it was obtained in the coronal and axial planes. Results The study included 49 (51.0%) males and 47 (49.0%) females with mean age 42.4 years (range 2-91 years). In 4 cases, 2 individual lesions were assessed, making a total of 100 lesions. Based on typical imaging features (n  = 57) or histology (n  = 43), 22 lesions (22%) were classified as non-neoplastic, 44 (44%) as benign neoplasms, 6 (6%) as intermediate-grade neoplasms, and 28 (28%) as malignant neoplasms. A significant discrepancy, wherein a lesion was classified as fat-containing (% SI drop >20%-25%) in the longitudinal plane, while in the axial plane it was classified as fat-replacing (% SI drop <20%-25%), or vice versa , occurred in 9%-14% of cases. However, this discrepancy had no appreciable effect on overall diagnostic accuracy, which was calculated at 79% for the longitudinal plane and 75%-80% for the axial plane. Conclusions Significant differences in CSI measurements occur in 9%-14% of cases based on imaging plane, but with no significant effect on diagnostic accuracy. Advances in knowledge Radiologists should be aware that CSI measurements in different planes appear to have significant differences in up to 14% of lesions. However, diagnostic accuracy does not seem to be significantly affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) driven matchmaking algorithms are at the core of modern-day dating. Millions of users rely on these algorithms used by online dating platforms for successful matchmaking. However, a scholarly understanding of user perceptions of AI-driven matchmaking algorithms is limited. We explore the factors affecting users' perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms and analyze how users' perception of AI's fairness, social presence, and the threat posed by AI are associated with their perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms. We also investigate if their previous relationship initiation experience through online dating platforms further moderates the studied relationships. An analysis of survey data from Singapore suggests that those who perceive AI to be fair and have higher levels of social presence are more likely to showcase a higher degree of perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms. Moreover, those who have previously been successful in online dating relationship initiation are also more likely to believe in the perceived effectiveness of these algorithms. Further, previous experience of relationship initiation conditionally impacts the relationship between users' general AI perceptions and perceived effectiveness. We also find that males and younger respondents are more likely to believe in the efficacy of matchmaking algorithms. Practical implications are offered. Highlights Perceived fairness of AI is positively associated with the perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms. Perceived social presence of AI is positively associated with the perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms. Successful relationship initiation through online dating platforms is positively related to the perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms. Relationship initiation conditionally impacts the association between perceptions of AI and the perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms. Contextual transference of AI perceptions and impact of users' experience on the perceived effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of fish larvae in estuaries is crucial for comprehending the functioning of these ecosystems and their role as nursery grounds for marine fish species. Data regarding larval fish assemblages in the coastal waters of Bangladesh are currently scarce. This study examines the spatial and seasonal dynamics of larval fish communities in these waters using a two-year sampling effort with a bongo net. This study investigates the diversity, abundance, and distribution of larval fishes at four sites (Bakkhali River Estuary, Moheshkhalipara, Naf River Estuary, and Rezu Khal Estuary) on the southeastern coast of Bangladesh. A total of 10,387 fish larvae representing 25 families were identified. Clupeidae (42.9%), Engraulidae (35.5%), Ambassidae (10.1%), Myctophidae (2.1%), and Gobiidae (1.9%) were the five most dominant families based on the larval catch composition. Marked seasonal differences in the larval fish abundance were observed. However, these differences were not observed when comparing the four sampled sites. Additionally, the correlation between environmental variables and the larval abundance indicated that salinity negatively influences (p < 0.001) the larval fish abundance. This is the first comprehensive investigation of larval fish assemblages in the coastal waters of Bangladesh. The findings of this study enhance our understanding of the nursery habitat requirements for the early development stages of both migratory and resident species in subtropical coastal waters, providing valuable information for potential applications in management and conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out in Matiranga Upazila, Bandarban district, which is considered one of Bangladesh's major hill tract regions. The study aimed to identify present farming conditions, prospects, and problems and suitable solutions to the problems of fish farming. Different participatory rapid appraisal tools such as focus group discussion, field visits, and farmers' interviews were used to collect relevant fish farming information in the study area. The polyculture method was the most practised aquaculture method. Among the selected farms, eleven fish species were identified as culture species. The transportation cost for seeds purchased from remote areas was high (11% of total seed cost). The average transportation-related mortality of fish fry and fingerlings was 7.2% and 2.8%. Feed cost was found as the major cost (58.4%) in aquaculture. Costs and revenue for fish production per decimal varied from BDT 311 to 3528 and BDT 23 to 1268. Utilization of vacant lake, youth and women engagement, integrated aquaculture, the desire of people to engage in aquaculture, and available human resources were found as significant prospects. The major problems identified were lack of hatchery, high feed cost, lack of stakeholder linkage, lack of capital for fish farming, and lack of proper knowledge, guidelines, and consultancy for fish culture. A community-based aquaculture model was proposed to overcome the present challenges and problems in the study area. The model may help to expand aquaculture and thus improve the livelihood and socio-economic status of the people of the hilly areas of Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the 2020 United State Presidential election presented tense partisan conflicts, we sought to explore whether and how such a social and ideological fissure can lead to large-scale politically motivated avoidance behaviours. Building on prior literature, we examine how social media behaviours (i.e. expressive social media news use and political discussion with weak ties) and social psychological attitudes (i.e. surveillance anxiety) are associated with selective avoidance on social media. Further, we explore cognitive ability's direct and indirect roles in influencing avoidance behaviours. We used online panel survey data collected during the 2020 election to test our assumptions. The findings suggest that those with high levels of expressive social media news use, political discussions with weak ties, and surveillance anxiety engage in more frequent selective avoidance. On the contrary, those with high cognitive ability are less likely to engage in selective avoidance. Furthermore, moderation effects suggest that low cognitive users with greater surveillance anxiety and frequent discussions with weak ties are most accustomed to selective avoidance. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and policy implications of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of social network characteristics in further dissipating political participation among adolescents and young adults or mobilizing them into participatory action is debatable. This study analyzes survey data from 10 Southeast European democracies to examine the influence of informational use of online media (Internet and social media) and social network characteristics on political interest–based participatory gaps among adolescents and young adults. The findings support the reinforcement thesis that politically interested individuals exploit the benefits of online media use, thereby exacerbating participation gaps between low- and high-interest groups. These gaps are further amplified in more heterogeneous networks for both adolescents and young adults. In contrast, politically interested adolescents are more likely to politically disengage within more extensive social networks and, hence, resemble politically detached young adults. Overall, the findings support the reinforcement thesis across age groups where greater network heterogeneity amplifies participatory gaps for both adolescents and young adults, but network size plays a conditional role for adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unpredictable weather conditions due to climate change have resulted in significant changes in global weather patterns, affecting various sectors across the world; mostly the agriculture sector which got affected. This study focusses on the changing agricultural patterns caused by climate change and their severe effects on farmers' livelihoods in the Kishanganj District of Bihar. The purpose of this study is to look at the dynamic interaction between changing weather patterns and agricultural practices and the socioeconomic implications for the local farming community. This study intends (1) to explore farmers' perceptions and their experience of climate change towards agricultural practices, (2) to understand the adaptive techniques used by farmers in the Kishanganj district of Bihar in response to altering the agricultural patterns, (3) to assess the socioeconomic consequences of shifting agricultural patterns on farmers' lives. Through a comprehensive literature review and primary data collection, including in-depth interviews with local farmers, to discover variations in agricultural patterns, changing weather patterns, and changes in farming practices adopted by the farmers in response to unpredictable weather conditions. From the findings of this study, it is revealed that the agricultural sector in Kishanganj is extremely vulnerable to unpredictable weather patterns, such as severe droughts, unseasonal rainfall, and temperature variations. The changing weather patterns have resulted in significant crop loss, which resulted in lower agricultural production, less income, and more debt for farmers' families. The negative effects of weather-related disruptions extend beyond economic factors, affecting both farmers' families and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHO) is a relatively infrequent but significant infection in pediatric patients. As Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of AHO, intravenous and oral first-generation cephalosporins are common therapies. Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed oral therapy for pediatric AHO, although it requires frequent dosing that may affect adherence. Cefadroxil is a comparable oral first-generation cephalosporin with a more desirable dosing schedule. Methods We reviewed pediatric patients admitted to Mayo Clinic between March 2002 and September 2020 for management of AHO who received treatment with a first-generation cephalosporin. We reviewed timing of oral therapy transition, therapy-associated adverse effects, and recurrence of disease after completion of therapy. Results There were 59 patients included in the study. There was similar occurrence of adverse effects in patients receiving cefadroxil and cephalexin, although use of cefadroxil coincided with more gastrointestinal adverse effects and leukopenia and use of cephalexin with more rash and neutropenia. One secondary treatment failure occurred in our study, in a patient receiving cephalexin for treatment of septic arthritis. Conclusions Cefadroxil may be a reasonable alternative oral therapy for methicillin-susceptible S aureus or culture-negative AHO in pediatric patients, particularly when a less frequent dosing schedule is desired. Future study with a larger sample size is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHO) is a relatively infrequent but significant infection in pediatric patients. As Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of AHO, intravenous and oral first-generation cephalosporins are common therapies. Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed oral therapy for pediatric AHO, although it requires frequent dosing that may affect adherence. Cefadroxil is a comparable oral first-generation cephalosporin with a more desirable dosing schedule. Methods We reviewed pediatric patients admitted to Mayo Clinic between March 2002 and September 2020 for management of AHO who received treatment with a first-generation cephalosporin. We reviewed timing of oral therapy transition, therapy-associated adverse effects, and recurrence of disease after completion of therapy. Results There were 59 patients included in the study. There was similar occurrence of adverse effects in patients receiving cefadroxil and cephalexin, although use of cefadroxil coincided with more gastrointestinal adverse effects and leukopenia and use of cephalexin with more rash and neutropenia. One secondary treatment failure occurred in our study, in a patient receiving cephalexin for treatment of septic arthritis. Conclusions Cefadroxil may be a reasonable alternative oral therapy for methicillin-susceptible S aureus or culture-negative AHO in pediatric patients, particularly when a less frequent dosing schedule is desired. Future study with a larger sample size is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have explored the causes and consequences of public engagement with misinformation and, more recently, COVID-19 misinformation. However, there is still a need to understand the mechanisms that cause misinformation propagation on social media. In addition, evidence from non-Western societies remains rare. This study reports on survey evidence from eight countries to examine whether social media fatigue can influence users to believe misinformation, influencing their sharing intentions. Our insights also build on prior cognitive and personality literature by exploring how this mechanism is conditional upon users' cognitive ability and narcissism traits. The results suggest that social media fatigue can influence false beliefs of misinformation which translates into sharing on social media. We also find that those with high levels of cognitive ability are less likely to believe and share misinformation. However, those with low cognitive ability and high levels of narcissism are most likely to share misinformation on social media due to social media fatigue. This study is one of the first to provide cross-national comparative evidence highlighting the adverse effects of social media fatigue on misinformation propagation and establishing that the relationship is not universal but dependent on both cognitive and dark personality traits of individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Informational use of social media facilitates political engagement. Yet, there is also evidence of the perils of frequent political engagement in misinformation propagation. This study aims to examine the association between online political engagement, perceived exposure to misinformation, individuals' cognitive characteristics and misinformation sharing. Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, online surveys were conducted in Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa (Study 1) and the United States (Study 2). Findings: Study 1 finds that online political engagement is positively associated with perceived exposure to and sharing of misinformation. Mediation analyses suggest that the relationship between online political engagement and misinformation sharing is mediated by perceived exposure to misinformation. Further, the likelihood of sharing misinformation is found to increase at higher levels of online political engagement, but those with low need for cognition (NFC) are more vulnerable to such sharing. Study 2 explores cognitive ability in place of NFC. The results follow similar patterns as Study 1 – online political engagement is linked to misinformation sharing via higher perceived exposure to misinformation. The authors also find that the tendency to share misinformation increases with frequent exposure to misinformation but those with lower cognitive ability are more prone to such sharing. Originality/value: In both contexts, the data show that perceived exposure to misinformation mediates the relationship between online political engagement and misinformation sharing and those with low NFC and cognitive ability are more vulnerable. Overall, the findings offer insight into the mechanisms of political engagement and sharing misinformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaginal yeast infection is one of the most common diseases caused by vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Effective therapy for VVC is needed. A lipid-based amphotericin B gel 0.1% (LAB) was developed and evaluated for the treatment of VVC patients and those who failed to azole therapy. LAB was applied topically twice daily for 7 days to 64 moderate patients and 14 days to 55 severely infected VVC patients. Additionally, 66 patients who failed to azole therapy were treated twice daily with LAB for 14 days. A 91.5% clinical response and 93.16% mycological response was observed in VVC patients. The patients treated with LAB who failed to azole therapy showed a 75% clinical, 95.3% mycological response and 83% remission was observed. Overall, the LAB was found to be efficacious and safe for the treatment of VVC patients. Clinical Trial Registration All the trials were registered at Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2013/02/003378, CTRI/2014/02/004409). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preclinical studies have demonstrated focused ultrasound (FUS) stimulated microbubble (MB) rupture leads to the activation of acid sphingomyelinase-ceramide pathway in the endothelial cells. When radiotherapy (RT) is delivered concurrently with FUS-MB, apoptotic pathway leads to increased cell death resulting in potent radiosensitization. Here we report the first human trial of using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided FUS-MB treatment in the treatment of breast malignancies. In the phase 1 prospective interventional study, patients with breast cancer were treated with fractionated RT (5 or 10 fractions) to the disease involving breast or chest wall. FUS-MB treatment was delivered before 1st and 5th fractions of RT (within 1 h). Eight patients with 9 tumours were treated. All 7 evaluable patients with at least 3 months follow-up treated for 8 tumours had a complete response in the treated site. The maximum acute toxicity observed was grade 2 dermatitis in 1 site, and grade 1 in 8 treated sites, at one month post RT, which recovered at 3 months. No RT-related late effect or FUS-MB related toxicity was noted. This study demonstrated safety of combined FUS-MB and RT treatment. Promising response rates suggest potential strong radiosensitization effects of the investigational modality. Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04431674. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbolines are a prominent class of tricyclic alkaloids omnipresent in natural products and bioactive compounds. Four different carboline regioisomers are known (α‐, β‐, γ‐, and δ‐carbolines), which can be classified according to the nitrogen atom position inside the pyridine ring. As an emerging structural motif in drug discovery, a multitude of synthetic methods have been established for the construction of carboline frameworks, which in general requires customized approaches for the assembly of each regioisomer. Distinguishingly, their frameworks are also accessible from unified approaches, which are capable of generating multiple regioisomers, thus suitable for introducing diversity in isomeric carbolines. In this review, the construction of isomeric carbolines based on unified synthetic approaches is summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the role of political information seeking on social media and perceived exposure to misinformation in influencing online political engagement. A survey investigation of three Sub-Saharan African countries (Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa) suggests that both information seeking and perceived exposure to misinformation are positively associated with online political engagement. We find that younger citizens are more actively engaged in online political activities. However, we also find that perceived exposure to misinformation has varying effects on political engagement across age groups. More frequent perceived exposure to misinformation is found to be a mobilizer for online political engagement for the older population. We conclude with a discussion of how social media may facilitate greater engagement for the older population. Still, the mobilizing role of misinformation exposure raises concerns about the consequences of such political engagement. Theoretical implications for political engagement research, in general and in the countries under study, are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suckermouth armoured catfish of the genus Pterygoplichthys (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) are significant threats to aquatic biodiversity, ecosystems, habitats, and fishery production in different countries. Their unique characteristics and adaptive features help their successful invasion. These fish harm fish habitats, compete for food and space, prey on fish eggs, and displace the native fish populations. They erode river banks, alter benthic ecology, make holes in the river bank, and remove aquatic plants. Elimination, control, and intrusion prevention are possible management strategies. Utilising them as food and preparing value-added products and byproducts using them are viable ways to reduce their number. Management is challenging, owing to their tolerance and excellent adaptability. With severe dangers to Bangladesh's fisheries industry and aquatic environment, suckermouth armoured catfish have invaded natural waterbodies and aquaculture ponds. There is a lack of accurate information on invasion status, types of invading species, and potential dangers of invasion to create a management framework in Bangladesh. Therefore, this review introduces the key characteristics, habitats, invasion impacts, and management and utilisation aspects of suckermouth armoured catfish in different countries. The review may help in understanding how they affect native fish, aquatic organisms, habitats, and the aquatic environment globally. Finally, what kind of threats they may pose and how they can be managed sustainably in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this current research work has a main aim to develop a novel Melatonin (MLT: BCS class II drug)-loaded nanoemulsion for the improvement in solubility. A developed novel-NE was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of Melatonin-loaded mucoadhesive nanoemulsion (CS-MLT-NE) with Melatonin-loaded nanoemulsion (MLT-NE) and MLT-solution (MLT-S) pharmacodynamically and also determine the quantity of MLT in the brain after the nasal administration. MLT-NE was prepared with the help of an advanced ultrasonication method after the screening of excipients and the development of pseudoternary phase diagram study. We got the optimized nanoformulation via three-factor four-level central-composite design (CCD). We optimized %oil, %Smix, and sonication time (second) based on selected independent variables. Independent and dependent variables were selected and optimized on the basis constraints oil (2.0%), 10%Smix, and 120 s sonication time. The dependent variables found the experimental their values 49.37 ± 4.09 nm (Y1: Globule size), 0.257 ± 0.0004 (Y2: PDI), − 16.20 ± 1.10 mV (Y3: Zeta Potential), and 98.03 ± 0.59% (Y4: %Transmittance), respectively. The shape of optimized-MLT-NE was found spherical with the pH, viscosity, and drug content (7.40 ± 0.08, 37.86 ± 7.01 cp, and 98.27 ± 0.17%), respectively. Zeta-Potential of CS-MLT-NE was altered from −ve to +ve after the addition of CS followed small increment of globule-size. CS-MLT-NE showed the great mucoadhesive nature as compared to MLT-NE, and MLT-S with a retention time of 0.641 min and m/z of 233.20/174.20 for MLT. A linear range was established from 0.50 to 1500.0 ng mL−1 with %accuracy (92.41–98.61%) and inter- and intraday %precision (2.49–4.93%). Cmax was enhanced (AUC)0−24 which was greatly significant (p < 0.001) in the rat's brain when it compared with i.n. and intravenous-treated group. Moreover, FST (forced swimming, climbing, and immobility) and locomotor activity test of CS-MLT-NE (i.n.) showed highly improved behavioral analysis as compared to the MLT-NE and MLT-S after 24.0 h of study. CS-MLT-NE showed highly significant role (p < 0.001) for the improvement in brain bioavailability and treatment of depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New chalcone derivative was successfully synthesized through Claisen-Schmidt condensation reaction. The XRD study was used to determine the molecular arrangement and it was evident that the enone moiety of the compound adopted s-cis configuration. In crystal packing, the molecules were connected by intermolecular C—H···π and π···π interactions which were then validated via Hirshfeld analysis. The UV-Vis study reveals the absorption wavelength and energy gap of the compound. The DPPH assay showed that the compound exhibited weak antioxidant activity. Molecular docking revealed the binding energy of the compound (6.9 kcal/mol). ADMET study predicted that the compound has a moderate drug-likeness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) of the breast is a dermal fibroblastic neoplasm requiring wide excisional margins due to recurrence rates ranging from 26 to 60%. The current literature on reconstructive options and utility of Mohs micrographic surgery for DFSP of the breast is scarce. We describe surgical management of DFSP of the breast at our institution with the largest case series reported to date. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of women who underwent surgery for DFSP of the breast at our institution between 1990 and 2019. Continuous data was summarized using mean, median, and range; categorical data was summarized with frequency count and percentage. Preoperative lesion size and postoperative defect size were evaluated using 2-sided Fisher exact test, and p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Nine patients underwent wide local excision (WLE) with reconstruction including pedicled latissimus dorsi flaps (n = 2), local flap advancement (n = 2), mastectomy with implant (n = 1), oncoplastic breast reduction (n = 1), and skin grafts (n = 3). Nine underwent Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) with complex primary closure. Mean postoperative maximum wound defect size for WLE was 10.8 cm versus 7.0 cm for MMS with no statistical significance (p = 0.77). Mean preoperative maximum lesion size for WLE was 6.4 cm versus 3.3 cm for MMS with no statistical significance (p = 0.07). Complications with WLE included wound dehiscence in three patients and seroma in one patient. No complications were reported with MMS and primary closure. Recurrence was reported in one WLE patient, which was successfully detected despite flap coverage and resected without complications. Median follow-up for the patients without recurrence was 5.0 years, with two patients in MMS cohort lost to follow-up. Five-year overall survival was 100%. Conclusions: MMS and WLE are both viable surgical options for managing DFSP of the breast. MMS could potentially minimize reconstructive needs due to smaller average defect size and result in fewer complications but may also result in asymmetry. Immediate flap reconstruction, especially in larger defects, can achieve excellent aesthetic outcomes for patients with DFSP of the breast without compromising detection of disease recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early apprehensions about how deepfakes (also deep fakes) could be weaponized for social and political purposes are now coming to pass. This study is one of the first to examine the social impact of deepfakes. Using an online survey sample in the United States, this study investigates the relationship between citizen concerns regarding deepfakes, exposure to deepfakes, inadvertent sharing of deepfakes, the cognitive ability of individuals, and social media news skepticism. Results suggest that deepfakes exposure and concerns are positively related to social media news skepticism. In contrast, those who frequently rely on social media as a news platform are less skeptical. Higher cognitive abled individuals are more skeptical of news on social media. The moderation findings suggest that among those who are more concerned about deepfakes, inadvertently sharing a deepfake is associated with heightened skepticism. However, these patterns are more pronounced among low than high cognitive individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome that adversely impacts health outcomes. This study examined correlates of physical frailty in healthy community-dwelling older adults and studied the effect of frailty on disability-free survival (DFS), defined as survival free of independence-limiting physical disability or dementia. Methods: This is a post hoc analysis of 19,114 community-dwelling older adults (median age: 74.0 years, interquartile range or IQR: 6.1 years) from Australia and the USA enrolled in the "ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE)" clinical trial. Frailty was assessed using a modified Fried phenotype and a deficit accumulation frailty index (FI) utilizing a ratio score derived from 66 items. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the correlates of frailty and Cox regression to analyze the association between frailty and DFS (and its components). Results: At study enrollment, 39.0% were prefrail, and 2.2% of participants were frail, according to Fried phenotype. Older age, higher waist circumference, lower education, ethnoracial origin, current smoking, depression, and polypharmacy were associated with prefrailty and frailty according to Fried phenotype and FI. Fried phenotype defined prefrailty and frailty predicted reduced DFS (prefrail: HR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.50–1.86 and frail: HR: 2.80; 95% CI: 2.27–3.46), affecting each component of DFS including dementia, physical disability, and mortality. Effect sizes were larger, according to FI. Conclusion: Our study showed that prefrailty is common in community-dwelling older adults initially free of cardiovascular disease, dementia, or independence-limiting physical disability. Prefrailty and frailty significantly reduced disability-free survival. Addressing modifiable correlates, like depression and polypharmacy, might reduce the adverse impact of frailty on dementia-free and physical disability-free survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization defines female genital mutilation/cutting as any medically unnecessary procedure involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs. It is a violation of human rights and associated with serious complications and lifelong impact on health. This review article summarizes for the pediatric and adolescent care provider the incidence worldwide, the impact of cultural practices, appropriate screening and diagnosis, interventions, and treatment, along with legal and ethical issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The background of this research is the phenomenon of not maximal self-actualization of students graduating from Madrasah Aliyah Islamic Center Bin Baz Yogyakarta in carrying out teaching tasks. Many students are still not ready to carry out the mandate of teaching and think the task is very difficult to carry out. Arabic extracurricular activities are one of the school's strategies to prepare graduates who have basic teaching skills with which students can carry out their final assignments well. Students who consciously participate in Arabic extra-curricular activities are expected to have increased teaching skills and can apply the knowledge they have learned. In general, this research was conducted to analyze the implementation of the Arabic curricular curriculum in improving the teaching skill of students at Madrasah Aliyah Islamic Center Bin Baz Yogyakarta. The methodology used in this research is a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis methodology. This primary data source was obtained through the results of direct interviews with informants consisting of the principal, waka of students, Head of Arabic Language Research and Development, students and the results of observations. Based on the results of the researcher's analysis, it was concluded that the implementation of the extracurricular curriculum in Islamic boarding schools needs to be developed in the form of practice and development that supports the readiness of students to have teaching readiness, able to work together in teams, share enthusiasm and strengthen motivation. Another conclusion from this thesis, Islamic boarding schools have implemented the Arabic Language Extracurricular curriculum in improving the teaching skills of their students. In practice, MA Islamic Center Bin Baz has provided moral support facilities in the form of deploying competent educators, and material support in the form of funding that is prepared to support the improvement of the teaching skill of its students. The result of this application is the formation of students who have the will and ability to teach even though age and experience constraints still have many limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface water pollution is a huge issue worldwide that keeps growing in magnitude and complexity which leads to millions of people don't have access to clean water resource. Numerous studies on vulnerability, hazard and risk assessment of water pollution had been conducted yet most of them only focused on one of the three risk components. Therefore, the objective of this study was to apply a geospatial approach that integrated hydrogeological and anthropogenic parameters to assess the risk of surface water pollution in Selangor River Basin, Malaysia. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) were applied in hydrogeological vulnerability assessment. WRASTIC index was used in anthropogenic hazard assessment. The risk map showed that high-risk zones were mainly located in areas where development and agricultural activities are extensive. Conversely, low-risk zones were in areas that were mostly covered by forest with few developments, such as the upstream region. The results also revealed that high and very risk levels were dependent on soil media and presence of land use and anthropogenic activity especially agriculture, industry, and wastewater presence. The risk map also showed that developed area with high hydrogeological vulnerability would have higher risk of pollution compared to areas without any anthropogenic hazard. The risk map can assist stakeholders to identify at risk of pollution. This allows for better decision-making in integrated river basin management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]