Search

Purpose: To compare occlusal schemes with condylar inclination and anterior guidance in dentate individuals. Materials and Methods: A total of 26 dentate patients of Indian origin between the ages of 18 and 30 with canine-guided occlusion and 26 patients with group function occlusion were included in the study. The School of Articulator Munich (SAM) Axioquick system was used to assess the condylar guidance and eccentric tracings of the patients. For analyses, Student t test was used. For quantitative data, the means and SDs were calculated. For statistical analyses, the probability of type-I error of .05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean condylar guidance for canine-guided and group function occlusion was 38.4 ± 12.7 degrees and 30.5 ± 12.5 degrees on the right side, respectively. On the left side it was 36.5 ± 13.0 degrees and 27.5 ± 12.0 degrees for canine-guided and group function occlusion, respectively, with a statistically significant difference (P = .01). The condylar guidance, incisal guidance, Bennett angle, protrusion, left lateral and right lateral movement, and left and right lateral angles were analyzed statistically between the two types of occlusions. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups for all parameters except right condylar guidance. Furthermore, all parameters were higher in the canine-guided occlusion group over group function occlusion. Conclusions: Within the study limitations, it was concluded that the condylar guidance was steeper in canine-guided occlusion than in group function occlusion. The eccentric parameters were steeper in canine-guided occlusion than in group function occlusion. This study showcases that the condylar guidance might not play a major role in determining the occlusal scheme but that the incisal guidance determines the occlusal scheme predominantly in Class 1 occlusion patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the clinical practice guidelines for assessing the needs of long-stay psychiatric patients with mental illness and substance use disorders (SUD). Topics include the process of developing needs assessments; factors influencing discharge planning and readiness; and the importance of recovery-oriented, person-centered care that addresses both mental health and physical health needs.

The article highlights the urgent need for sustainable behavioral change interventions to effectively control rabies, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Despite efforts, rabies remains endemic in many regions, with a disproportionate burden on poor rural populations in Africa and Asia. The article emphasizes the importance of integrating durable behavioral interventions, such as education and responsible pet ownership, to reduce virus transmission and prevent future outbreaks. It also underscores the necessity of addressing human attitudes towards stray dogs, consumption of dog meat, and traditional healing practices to improve rabies control. [Extracted from the article]

A wireless sensor network comprises of distributed independent devices, called sensors that monitor the physical conditions of the environment for various applications, such as tracking and observing environmental changes. Sensors have the ability to detect information, process it, and forward it to neighboring sensor nodes. Wireless sensor networks are facing many issues in terms of scalability, which necessitates numerous nodes and network range. The route chosen between the source node and the destination node with the shortest distance determines how well the network performs. In this paper, evolutionary algorithm based shortest path selection provides high end accessibility of path nodes for data transmission among source and destination. It employs the best fitness function methodology, which involves the replication of input, mutation, crossover, and mutation methods, to produce efficient outcomes that align with the best fitness function, thereby determining the shortest path. This is a probabilistic technique that receives input from learning models and provides the best results. The execution results are presented well compared with earlier methodologies in terms of path cost, function values, throughput, packet delivery ratio, and computation time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystallography has been the routine technique for studying high‐resolution structures of proteins for over five decades. A major bottleneck in structure determination of macromolecules is obtaining crystals of a size and quality suitable for single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography experiments. Many challenging proteins either fail to grow into crystals or fail to grow into crystals of a size suitable for obtaining high‐resolution structures using conventional X‐ray crystallography. When it comes to smaller crystals, they can be used either for seeding to get larger crystals or for serial crystallography and electron diffraction for obtaining the structures. For both purposes, a limiting step is to non‐invasively image such small crystals of sub‐micrometre dimensions and to screen the conditions where such crystals prevail. Here we use cathodoluminescence‐based (CL‐based) nanoscopy to image protein nanocrystals. We show that crystals of micrometre and submicrometre dimensions can be non‐invasively imaged by the CL‐based nanoscope. The results presented here demonstrate the feasibility of non‐invasive imaging of protein crystals with sub‐100 nm resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The binding of Ca2+ ions within the troponin core of the cardiac thin filament (CTF) regulates normal contraction and relaxation. Mutations within the troponin complexes are known to alter normal functions and result in the eventual development of cardiomyopathy. However, despite the importance of the problem, detailed microscopic knowledge of the mechanism of pathogenic effect of point mutations and their effects on the conformational free energy surface of CTF remains elusive. Mutations are known to transmit their effects hundreds of angstroms along this protein complex and between different component proteins. To explore the impact of point mutations on the conformational free energy barrier between the closed and blocked state of CTF, and to understand the transmission of mutation, we have carried out metadynamics simulations for the wild‐type (WT) and two mutants (cardiac troponin T Arg92Trp (R92W) and Arg92Leu (R92L)). Specifically, we have investigated the conformational modification of the tropomyosin (Tm) and the troponin (Tn) complex during the closed‐to‐blocked state transition for both the WT and two hypertrophic cardiomyopathy causing mutations. Our calculations demonstrated that mutations within the cardiac troponin T (cTnT) protein alter conformational properties of the Tm and the other proteins of the Tn complex as well as the Ca2+ binding affinity of the cTnC protein through the indirect mediation of cardiac troponin I (cTnI). Importantly, the data revealed a significant influence of the mutations on the conformational transition free energy barriers for both the Tm and cTnC proteins. Furthermore, we found both mutations independently alter the free energy barrier of transitions of cTnT. Such alteration in the free energy upon mutation of one protein in a complex, allosterically affects the others through structural and dynamical changes, leading to a pathogenic effect on the function of the thin filament. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the limit of very low Reynolds numbers, the steady translation of a fluid sphere situated at a non‐concentric position in a second immiscible fluid bounded by spherical cavity is investigated using boundary collocation technique. The flow inside and outside the fluid sphere is governed by Stokes equations. Boundary conditions at the fluid sphere are continuity of velocity and shear stress. Zero shear stress and zero vorticity are used on spherical cavity. By using superposition principle, a general solution is constructed from the basic solutions in the two spherical coordinate systems based on both the fluid sphere and spherical cavity. The normalized drag force exerted on the fluid sphere contained in a cavity is depended on the ratio of fluid sphere and cavity radii, viscosity ratio of fluid sphere and cavity, relative distance between the centers of fluid sphere and cavity. The results are in good agreement with previously published work in the limiting cases. The numerical results of the drag force are good agreement with the solutions of the translation of the fluid sphere in a concentric cavity and the translation of a solid sphere in a non‐concentric cavity. The drag force is increasing function of the viscosity ratio, volume fraction, and the relative distance. This work is extension of the previous work of Keh and Lee for the fluid sphere using Happel's and Kuwabara's models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the effect of activating flux powders viz., Silicon Dioxide (SiO2), Chromic Oxide (Cr2O3), Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) and Vanadium Pentoxide (V2O5) on Flux-Bound TIG (FB-TIG) welding of UNS S32760 Super Duplex Stainless Steel (SDSS) is investigated. Also, conventional TIG welding is done for a comparative study with the FB-TIG welds. The macrographs of the welds are obtained to analyze the depth, width and aspect ratio. The depths obtained with all the fluxes are found to be superior relative to the conventional TIG welds. The highest penetration of 6 mm is obtained for V2O5 welds. Then the microstructure and composition of the welds are analyzed using Optical Microscopy and Area-Mapping analysis. The authors observed the presence of three forms of austenite viz., Grain Boundary Austenite, Intragranular Austenite and Widmanstatten Austenite in the weldment zones. The micro-hardness profiles of the welds are also analyzed, and the profiles obtained with all the FB-TIG welds are found to be relatively smoother without any abrupt variations. Through this investigation, it is delineated that FB-TIG welding can increase the overall productivity in the welding of SDSS, as the penetration obtained is up to thrice relative to the conventional TIG welding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to compare and evaluate the fracture resistance of endodontically treated maxillary anterior teeth restored using new postplacement techniques. Methodology: Forty-five single-rooted maxillary anterior teeth (n = 15) were selected and decoronated at the cementoenamel junction. The working length was determined using a 15K file. Biomechanical preparation was done up to size 70 and the teeth were obturated. After 1 week, the root-filling material, gutta-percha, was removed, and postspace was prepared using a size 3 and 4 peeso reamer. The samples were divided into three groups (n = 15). Group I: Coltene Tenax fiber Post-reinforced with composite (anatomical post). Group II: Coltene Tenax fiber postreinforced with a leno-woven polyethylene; Ribbond fibers. Group III: Coltene Tenax fiber Post-luted with a dual cure cement. After postcementation, core buildup was done. Fracture resistance was measured using a universal testing machine. Results: Statistical analysis was done using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc tests. A statistically significant difference was seen in the mean maximum load (N) between the groups. Group I showed the highest mean maximum load (N), followed by Group II and Group III. A significant P value (P = 0.025) was noted. Conclusion: Coltene Tenax fiber postreinforced with composite (anatomical post) showed the highest fracture resistance in endodontically treated maxillary anteriors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study explores potential application of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to treat periodontal infection using Azadirachta indica leaf extract. The eco-friendly green synthesis process uses Azadirachta indica as a natural stabilizer and reducer, allowing AgNPs to be formed. Methods: Experimental AgNPs were characterized through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Zeta potential, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) etc. The antimicrobial, antioxidant potential of AgNPs was tested to identify its efficacy against periodontal infections. Results and discussion: AgNPs were found spherical, nanosized (86 nm), with negative surface charge (−26.9 mV). TEM study depicted clear formation of discrete nanosize particles with smooth surface texture. Results showed strong antibacterial and anti-oxidant action of experimental AgNPs, preventing biofilm growth and bacterial viability. A higher binding affinity was observed between Quercetin and the selected protein, which is implicated in bacterial growth and biofilm formation on teeth. The study suggests that Azadirachta indica derived AgNPs could be a safe, efficacious, and eco-friendly alternative in place of conventional therapies to treat periodontal infection. Future in vivo studies are however warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Breastfeeding intention is one of the strongest predictors of breastfeeding behavior and practice. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), with its main construct, behavioral intention, is useful to predict actual behavior. While the literature has examined the implications of other theoretical notions such as self-identity, moral norm, descriptive norm, and socio-demographic variables, their roles remain unclear. Similarly, research on ethnic and low-income mothers is even insufficient. Therefore, given the original TPB constructs, our goal was to examine the role of extra theoretical constructs and specific demographic variables, and observe whether the original model would alter. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out among 325 pregnant mothers in six purposively selected health care facilities of Kaski and Tanahu districts, using structured pro forma, from December 2018 to November 2019. We developed stepwise multivariate logistic regression from the entered and cleaned data, observed the effects on breastfeeding intention (BFI), and checked against multiple parameters. We interpreted the model with adjusted odds ratios and β coefficients, along with the variance explained. Results and discussions: Out of 325 pregnant women, more than half (54.8%) were primiparous, and the mean age was 25.1±5 years. All three theoretical constructs of TPB regressed the BFI significantly, with 10.7%, the breastfeeding attitude dominating (β = 0.734, p =.003), and the other two constructs—perceived breastfeeding control (β = 0.659, p =.011) and breastfeeding subjective norm (β = 0.504, p =.045). Interestingly, breastfeeding self-identity added further variance of 5.2% (β = 0.955, p <.001), followed by income, with 3.2% (β = 0.856, p =.001), both of which also tallied large effect sizes. The model parameters showed consistency and robustness. We discuss the variables of the theoretical and extended model for BFI as well as the arguments for the explained variance. Conclusion: Self-identity is a strong and independent predictor of breastfeeding intention and, therefore, should be considered to better prepare for breastfeeding, especially among ethnic pregnant mothers. The direct and intermediate effects of self-concept and income need further study with more robust designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of different irrigants activated by pro-agitator tip system (PATS) Vario on the removal of calcium hydroxide medicament and subsequent penetration depth of Bio-C sealer. Materials and Methods: Fifty single-rooted mandibular premolars were selected. Access cavities were prepared; biomechanical preparation was done. Metapex that had been combined with rhodamine B dye was used to fill each sample. All the samples were divided into five groups (n = 10) – Group I: chitosan–citrate, Group II: intracanal heated sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Group III: phytic acid, Group IV: SmearClear, and Group V: saline. All samples were obturated using gutta-percha and Bio-C sealer (combined with fluorescein dye). Later, all samples were sectioned at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex and observed under a confocal microscope for residual Ca(OH)2 and sealer penetration into dentinal tubules. Results: The saline group exhibited the least amount of sealer penetration and high residual Ca(OH)2, both of which were statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: The use of PATS Vario for irrigant activation enhanced the calcium hydroxide removal efficacy and penetration of Bio-C sealer into dentinal tubules. The elimination of calcium hydroxide and sealer penetration, from the apical region of the tooth, can be accelerated by intracanal heating of NaOCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of solar power systems by developing dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) with an electrolyte of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) dispersed in poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Photovoltaic and impedance spectral studies showed that a polymer electrolyte with 3% carbon nanotubes resulted in an efficiency of solar power conversion of 7.40% and a photovoltaic current per unit cross-sectional area of 17.13 mA/cm2 in DSSCs. The optimal distribution of CNT fillers decreased the charge recombination of the titanium dioxide-dye-CNT-PMMA electrolyte surface. The X-ray diffraction spectrum showed characteristic peaks of PMMA and CNT at 28.6° and 63.0°, respectively, obtained in pure form and composites with dispersed carbon nanotubes. The peak intensity increased with the addition of CNTs in the polymer. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy investigation revealed the bonding within the CO and CH of PMMA and CNT to the polymer composite. The dielectric constant increased from 2.9 to 4.4, and the dielectric loss increased from 0.10 to 0.90 at 1 MHz for the dispersion of 6% CNT in PMMA. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that the internal particle structure and porosity had changed due to the presence of the CNTs in the PMMA. The dispersion of CNTs into the PMMA increased the maximum voltage of the polymer electrolytes. A breakdown voltage of 7.4 kV was attained with 6% CNTs in the polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer composites containing poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) were synthesized using the solution mixing method. The electrical conductivity of PMMA is 6 × 10−9 S/cm, and adding 2% fillers reduces to 5 × 10−9 S/cm. The melting point of PMMA is 373 °C, and adding 2% and 4% fillers increased it to 376 °C and 379 °C, respectively. The polymer chains become less mobile and block macromolecules on the filler surface. The modulus of elasticity and mechanical tensile stress of the polymer composites with a 5-wt% of BaTiO3 are 759.3 MPa and 75.6 MPa, respectively. The breakdown strength of PMMA is 203 KV and reduces with the addition of 5% filler to 144 KV. The values of Ec/Em evaluated using the Tsai-Pagano, Christensen-Waals, ROM, Mori-Tanaka, and Halpin-Tsai models underpredict the modulus compared to experimental Ec/Em values. Fourier spectroscopy confirmed the presence of Ti-O and BaTiO3 bonds in the polymer composite. Scanning electron microscope images reveal spherical aggregates of BaTiO3 coated with PMMA and an interparticle network. The dielectric constant of PMMA is 3 and increased with the addition of 2% and 4% fillers to 4 and 4.3, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major goal of this research is to develop a Deep Learning (DL) based automatic identification and classification of white blood cells (WBCs) with high accuracy and efficiency. The first phase of research is pre-processing and is accomplished by the Improved Median Wiener Filter (IMWF), which effectively eliminates the noises. The image is resized into a standard image size before filtering. The segmentation process takes place using Color Balancing Binary Threshold (CBBT) algorithm to divide the WBCs and another non-relevant background to improve the classification performance. The features like shape, texture and color of the WBCs are extracted from the segmented images. Finally, the classification takes place, and this is processed by a fine optimal deep convolution residual network (Fine Optimal DCRNet). In addition, the bionic model is introduced to improve classification accuracy. The dataset used in this research is BCCD and LISC datasets. The performance of the proposed model is validated using existing methods of Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), VGG-16, VGG-19, ResNet-50, DensetNet-121, DensetNet-169, Inception-V3, InceptionResNet-V2, Xception, MobileNet-224, Mobile NasNet, Tree, Naive Bayes, Ensemble active contour model, k-means clustering and handcraft and deep learned features-scale-invariant feature transform (HCDL-SIFT) in terms of Accuracy, Precision, Recall, Specificity, F-score, Relative Distance Error (RDE), Over-Segmentation Rate (OSR), Under-Segmentation Rate (USR) and Overall Error Rate (OER). For the LISC dataset, the detection model attains an outcome of 99%, 98%, 98%, 99%, 98%, 1.143, 0.0125, 0.056 and 0.125, respectively. For the BCCD dataset, apart from RDE, OSR, USR and OER metrics, the performance is evaluated as 98%, 96%, 98%, 99% and 97%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nepal is a biodiversity-rich country harboring endangered wildlife species. Despite commendable achievements in conserving charismatic wildlife species like the Tiger and Rhinoceros, Nepal is still a pivotal point for the illicit wildlife trade. In this perspective, we explore the current situation of wildlife poaching and smuggling, factors conducive to such activities, and present some minimum practitioner steps for what should be tried to prevent such a situation in Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a case of Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome (DDMS) in a patient with bipolar affective disorder. The patient experienced seizures, intellectual developmental disorder, and psychiatric symptoms, leading to a delayed diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder. Treatment involved a combination of medications for seizure control and mood symptoms, with adjustments made based on tolerability and response. The patient's outcome included seizure control, management of psychiatric symptoms, and engagement in daycare services for psychiatric rehabilitation. The article highlights the importance of recognizing and treating coexisting psychiatric manifestations in patients with DDMS for optimal outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

This study focuses on the utilization of agro‐residual corn‐cob biomass, waste plastic and the combination of both for pyrolysis reaction using thermal analysis. Circular bioeconomy is assured by closing all the resource materials loops through co‐pyrolysis process. The conversion profiles of corn cob pyrolysis at various heating rates reveal a three‐stage decomposition process, and plastic waste exhibits single stage degradation. Due to the interaction between the blended materials, additional degradation peaks arise during the co‐pyrolysis of waste plastic (PET bottles) and biomass (corn cobs). The apparent activation energy fluctuates in the range of 120–260 kJ/mol with the conversion, according to Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (FWO) and Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose (KAS) kinetic methods. Notably, for co‐pyrolysis the apparent activation energy is lower (168 kJ/mol using FWO) than the individual biomass (179 kJ/mol using FWO) and plastic (175 kJ/mol using FWO), suggesting a positive synergistic effect during charring. The liquid crude and char product analysis from corn cob pyorlysis through FTIR and XRD confirms the application of the products in energy and chemical processes. The results obtained in this study can be utilized for co‐pyrolysis reactor analysis specifically using waste plastic bottles that are accumulating in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Quality of life (QoL) is a subjective measure reflecting individuals' evaluations based on their personal goals and values. While global research shows the role of neighborhood factors like ethnic diversity and socio-cultural dynamics on QoL, these are unexplored in the Nepali context. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between neighborhood environment and QoL among Nepali older adults in eastern Nepal. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 847 non-institutionalized older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) from two districts in eastern Nepal. QoL was evaluated using the 13-item brief Older People's Quality of Life questionnaire, where a mean score of < 3 indicated low/poor QoL. The neighborhood environment, conceptualized across three domains (demographic, socio-cultural, and built environment), included ethnic diversity, connections with family, friends, and neighbors, cultural ties, residential stability, and rurality. Their association with QoL was examined using multivariable logistic regression. Results: Around 20% of older adults reported poor QoL. Higher ethnic diversity (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 0.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.04–0.36), moderate contact with family and relatives (aOR = 0.26, CI: 0.11–0.61), and high contact with neighbors (aOR = 0.09, CI: 0.03–0.21) were associated with lower odds of poor QoL. Conversely, high contact with friends (aOR = 2.29, CI: 1.30–4.04) and unstable residence (OR = 6.25, CI: 2.03–19.23) increased the odds of poor QoL. Additionally, among the covariates, chronic disease, tobacco use, unemployment, and lack of education were also significantly associated with poor QoL. Conclusion: Overall, the demographic environment, socio-cultural factors, and the built environment of the neighborhood influence QoL. Therefore, diversifying the neighborhood's ethnic composition, promoting social connections such as frequent contact with family, relatives, and neighbors, and ensuring residential stability can enhance the QoL of older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The duration and quality of sleep are believed to significantly influence the onset of metabolic syndrome (MetS), but existing data lack consistency. The meta-analysis aims to evaluate the prevalence of the MetS in association with sleep duration. We conducted a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses 2020 guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Research Gate databases was performed to identify cohort and cross-sectional studies published in English between 2013 and 2023. We included studies that examined the association between sleep duration/quality and MetS, and two independent reviewers assessed study quality and bias using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. The systematic review included 11 studies with a total of 343,669 participants, including 4 cohort studies and 7 cross-sectional studies. Sample sizes varied widely, ranging from 293 to 162,121 individuals. The studies had different follow-up periods, participant ages ranging from 10 to 80 years, and predominantly male populations. The prevalence of MetS was higher in average sleepers [52%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 40%–64%] compared with short sleepers (13%, 95% CI: 8%–18%) and long sleepers (15%, 95% CI: 9%–24%). Globally, North American countries exhibit the highest prevalence of MetS across short- (25.3%, 95% CI: 4.2%–72.4%) and long-sleeper (22.4%, 95% CI: 2.8%–74.1%) categories, whereas Asian countries experience the highest prevalence among the average sleeper category (58.7%, 95% CI: 44.1%–71.9%). Our meta-analysis indicates an elevated prevalence of MetS in average sleepers. Future research endeavors address delve into the underlying mechanisms and incorporate objective measures to understand the multifaceted connection between sleep patterns and MetS, guiding more effective preventive and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe three cases that were complicated by access site-related common femoral artery pseudoaneurysm following therapeutic endovascular procedures. In all the cases, presentation was with painful swelling in the right groin that was tender and pulsatile on palpation; further evaluation with color Doppler ultrasound revealed pseudoaneurysm at the access site in common femoral artery. Ultrasound-guided transaneurysmal access was obtained and ProStyle (Abbott Vascular, Redwood City, California, United States) suture-mediated device was used to treat the pseudoaneurysm safely and successfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The government of Nepal initiated the Mid Day Meal Program (MDMP) to reduce hunger and increase educational outcomes, including health status. However, limited studies have been conducted on these issues covering the nutritional status of students at the lower basic level at community schools in Nepal. The main objective of the study is to determine the factors associated with malnutrition among children from community schools in Nepal. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 98 (46 basic and 52 secondary) community schools from 44 municipalities in Nepal. Altogether, 2727 students participated in the questionnaire survey and anthropometric measurement. Data collection was performed on May 10-31, 2023. WHO Anthro plus and LMS (Lambda Mu and Sigma) parameters were used: weight for age for national health and nutrition survey recommended by CDC/National Center for Health Statistics for ages older than ten years to analyze nutritional status, including z scores. Descriptive analysis, including inferential analyses such as the chi-square test and logistic regression, was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics v25. The prevalence of weight-for-age Z-score[WAZ], height-for-age Z-score [HAZ], and body mass index-for-age Z-score [BAZ] were 72%, 75%, and 82%, respectively. Students with z-scores outside the range of ± 2 were classified as malnourished. Of them, 27.3%, 23% and 16.6% were assessed as underweight, stunted and thin, respectively. Students' sociodemographic characteristics such as age, sex, family size and type, source of income, wealth status were significantly associated with malnutrition, while age group, sex, wealth status, residence setting, and geographical location were noted as significant predictors of nutritional status. The study found no statistical relationship between school feeding and good nutrition, questioning the quality of the midday meal program. The study concludes that existing school-based nutritional interventions need to be re-evaluated and re-designed since it is less potent to minimize malnutrition among students substantially. Policymakers could consider these findings when planning and implementing nutrition- related policies and programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the emergence of ultrafast X‐ray sources, interest in following fast processes in small molecules and macromolecules has increased. Most of the current research into ultrafast structural dynamics of macromolecules uses X‐ray free‐electron lasers. In parallel, small‐scale laboratory‐based laser‐driven ultrafast X‐ray sources are emerging. Continuous development of these sources is underway, and as a result many exciting applications are being reported. However, because of their low flux, such sources are not commonly used to study the structural dynamics of macromolecules. This article examines the feasibility of time‐resolved powder diffraction of macromolecular microcrystals using a laboratory‐scale laser‐driven ultrafast X‐ray source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of blood and artificial salivary contamination of different root-end filling materials on microleakage using a confocal laser scanning microscope and on marginal adaptation using a scanning electron microscope. Materials and Methods: Eighty noncarious single-rooted teeth with mature apices were taken. After retro-cavity preparation, they were randomly assigned into two major groups (n = 40). They were contaminated with blood and artificial saliva, respectively. Each major group was divided randomly into four subgroups (n = 10) and filled as follows: Subgroup A, Biodentine; Subgroup B, bioactive bone cement; Subgroup C, Cention N; and Subgroup D, Bio-C Repair. The samples were sectioned transversely at 1 and 2 mm from the root apex and checked under a confocal laser scanning microscope for microleakage and under an scanning electron microscope for marginal adaptation. The average mean values were calculated. Independent samples t-tests, paired t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance with Tukey's post hoc tests were done to analyze the data. Results: All the tested materials showed marginal gaps and dye leakage. The Bio-C Repair group showed the least mean marginal gap and dye leakage values, followed by bioactive bone cement, Biodentine, and Cention N, respectively, in both blood and artificial saliva contamination. However, the mean marginal gaps and dye leakage between the major groups were statistically insignificant. Conclusion: In an overall comparison, Bio-C Repair was found to be superior in terms of marginal adaptation and sealing ability under the test conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the penetration depth of three different irrigant solutions incorporated with nanoparticles (NPs) using a confocal laser scanning microscope. Methods: Forty-two single-rooted teeth were used. Access cavities were prepared, and working length was determined. The samples were split into three groups at random (n = 14). Group 1 – chitosan NPs, Group 2 – zinc oxide NPs, and Group 3 – silica-doped titanium NPs. Each group was further divided into subgroup A with activation and subgroup B without activation. Each tooth received final irrigants for 1 min. Each sample is sectioned at 3 mm from the apex. A confocal laser scanning microscope was used to observe the irrigant penetration. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference in the penetration depth in Group 2A and Group 3A. Conclusion: Activation with PATS Vario increases the penetration when compared to conventional syringe, and zinc oxide NP solution showed increased penetration when compared with other groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powder metallurgy process has the advantage of optimized material utilization with near net shape, resulting in reduced costs. The densification behavior of sintered aluminium under different loading conditions plays an important role in assessing the performance of parts. The experimental studies to examine the densification behavior are cost intensive and less flexible. Therefore, simulation studies are conducted and results are compared with the experimentation results. The FEA-based DEFORM-2D tool is used for modeling and simulation purposes. The performance curves of load vs. displacement are plotted. A new material is (Al-cr3c2) made and a flow curve is constructed using the disc compression test findings and using software to meet the experimentally observed flow stress. The relationship between stress and strain is studied under different loading conditions of sintered aluminium preforms during densification. Formability stress and strain in plane stress state condition initially rise with the rise in axial strain and then remain constant throughout the process. With a rise in the height reduction percentage, the relative density rises. The final density is higher because there are more pores in the sample when the aspect ratio is lower and the rate of densification is slower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Object detection is among the most significant and widely used for identifying target items in a specific image and determining their position and category in order to understand computer vision. Google, Facebook, and Snapchat's serverside production systems have greater freedom to optimize for accuracy, but they are still constrained by throughput limits. Lot of approaches is proposed in the literature for obtaining solution for solving object detection issue. Best results have been obtained by using deep learning and computer vision based methods. However, most of the existing techniques perform under expectation particularly in detecting the small and dense objects and in the detection of objects which has random transformations in geometric measures. The sparse representation methods are often failed to perform particularly in cases where the rate of recognition is more. The problem of object detection can be represented in three stages namely the representation, dimension reduction and object detection. The primary goal of this work is to serve as a guide for the selection of a detection architecture that achieves the proper speed, less memory and accuracy balance for a chosen application. Initially, a dictionary is used for the representation of samples undergoing test followed by sparse representation. Secondly, in order to resolve the issue of high dimension of the features, Bi-Dimensional Empirical Mode Decomposition (BEMD) is introduced for dimension reduction. Thirdly, an architecture called AlexNET is proposed for getting the multi-scaled feature and to add convolutional structure for the detection of dictionaries for the identification of objects which is used as a guideline for the selection of architecture for achieving performance measures such as speed, memory and accuracy. Visualization of images from the Common Object in Context (COCO) dataset offers a side-byside comparison with current approaches that trace the accuracy/speed tradeoff. The proposed classifier is efficiently reducing number of computational cost and number of parameters when compared to other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are promising applications of four-dimensional (4D) printing in the medical field. The need is to identify the research status and explore where this new set of technologies effectively can be deployed. Research articles are searched from Scopus by keywords as ‘4D printing’, ‘medical’, ‘dental’ and undertaken a bibliometric analysis of the identified papers. This study states that 4D printing is the latest technology that creates innovation and addresses complex medical problems. The paper briefly describes the 4D printing and details its difference from three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. The paper identified that research is carried out on 4D printing, but decidedly less publication is available in the medical field reporting the application of this technology. The main limitation is that it requires extensive investment and support for transformation. 4D printing is to provide benefits to medical practitioners especially in the areas not covered by 3D printing technologies. 4D printing helps to create a 3D physical object by adding smart material layer by layer through computer-operated computer-aided design data. It adds a dimension of transformation over time where printed products are sensitive to parameters such as temperature, humidity and time. This technology can provide extensive support in the medical field, especially with better and smart medical implants, tools and devices. Now, doctors and researchers can explore with 4D printing technology to provide better service to the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The study aims to assess the prevalence of erosive tooth wear and risk levels amongst different age groups utilising Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE) amongst the population of South West Coastal India. Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty healthy people participated in the research (n = 32 per group). Using sextants and the BEWE, index (0-18) allowed for the evaluation of erosive tooth wear. Questionnaires supplemented clinical data. Each participant was assigned to groups based on the severity of their erosive wear: high (BEWE sum ≥ 14), moderate (BEWE sum 9-13), low (3-8) and none (0-2). Results: There is no significant difference in the degree of erosive tooth wear across different age groups (χ²-20.11, P-0.067 [not‑significant]). There is a significant difference in response to questions across different age groups (χ²-487.21, P-0.01 [significant]). Conclusion: The prevalence of erosive tooth wear grows as individuals age. Older age groups, patients who are at a higher risk level require a more comprehensive form of treatment. The aetiology of dental erosion remained unknown to the patients, indicating a deficiency in their understanding of erosive tooth wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2015 Constitution defines Nepal as a multi-ethnic and multi-lingual country but not a multi-national; however, historically, two powerful ethnic groups with potential sub-national characters have been contesting each other under the native versus immigrant dyad. The alleged immigrants, namely the Madheshis, and the self-claimed native settlers, to name the Pahadis, both assert their distinct ethnic and linguistic identity enriched with sub-national strength. As a result, the Madheshis question the legitimacy of the civic form of nationalism promoted by the Pahadi ruling elites under 'Nepali' monocultural framework, thereby demanding that their sub-national character be recognised, whereas the Pahadis aim to assimilate the Madheshis under the civic form of nationalist framework that they have been promoting for a long. The face-off between these two groups has impacted national ethnopolitics and everyday relations since the 2007 Madheshi uprising. On this backdrop, this article, based on secondary sources, inquires how strong the Madheshis' claim of sub-national identity is in relation to the larger framework of Nepali national identity structured by Pahadi norms and values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, natural rubber (NR)/polybutadiene rubber (PB) blend-based composites were prepared using graphene as a partial replacement for carbon black (CB) in different parts per hundred rubber (phr) percentages. In a previous study, the vulcanization characteristics, viscoelastic behavior, and static mechanical properties were reported, and the compound labeled as compound 2 (with 2.5 phr of graphene and 52.5 phr of carbon black) showed optimum properties. Herein, we report the dynamic mechanical properties and the transport properties of the formulations to establish further characterization of the compounds. Three different organic solvents comprising benzene, toluene, and xylene were employed to analyze the sorption characteristics. The obtained data were also modeled with different theoretical predictions. The dynamic mechanical properties showed that certain compounds can be considered to be green tire formulations, as there were appreciable changes in the tanδ values at different temperatures (−25 °C to 60 °C). The thermogravimetric analysis showed that compound 2, with 2.5 phr of graphene, has a higher t50 value among the studied formulations, which indicates higher thermal stability than the base compound. The partial replacement of 2.5 phr of graphene in place of carbon black (total 55 phr) led to appreciable improvements in terms of thermal stability, transport properties, and dynamic mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To control various workloads, a Real-Time Database Management System (RTDMS) serves as a framework for executing transactions. Database management systems support both the storage and recovery of data across various application services. However, since security and Quality of Service (QoS) are evaluated separately during user transactions, the performance of these transactions has not been optimized. To address these issues, this paper incorporates both security strength and QoS optimization. In this paper, workload conditions during user transactions in real-time database systems are managed using the Adaptive Chimp Optimization Algorithm (AChOA). This algorithm enhances the security strength of the RTDMS by optimally selecting the security policy based on user requests. Additionally, the search performance of the Chimp Optimization Algorithm (ChOA) is improved through the use of a chaotic series generator with tent mapping. Moreover, an Intrusion Detection and Protection System (IDPS) with a high detection rate is implemented to improve response time. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme achieves better security strength and response time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X‐ray crystallography is an established tool to probe the structure of macromolecules with atomic resolution. Compared with alternative techniques such as single‐particle cryo‐electron microscopy and micro‐electron diffraction, X‐ray crystallography is uniquely suited to room‐temperature studies and for obtaining a detailed picture of macromolecules subjected to an external electric field (EEF). The impact of an EEF on proteins has been extensively explored through single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, which works well with larger high‐quality protein crystals. This article introduces a novel design for a 3D‐printed in situ crystallization plate that serves a dual purpose: fostering crystal growth and allowing the concurrent examination of the effects of an EEF on crystals of varying sizes. The plate's compatibility with established X‐ray crystallography techniques is evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTARCT: A new mesomorphic compartmental [N2O2] donor Schiff base ligand [H2L] has been synthesized and one corresponding polymeric cadmium(II) complex of the type [Cd-L]n {H2L = 4,6-bis((E)-1-(octadecylimino)ethyl) benzene-1,3-diol} is prepared by direct reaction of metal ion with ligand. Both the ligand and its Cd-complex do exhibit mesomorphic properties. The IR spectrum of the ligand clearly reveals that the ligand acts as a bi-negative tetradentate donor through the two sets of phenolate oxygen and azomethine nitrogen. Mesomorphic behavior of these compounds are investigated with the help of polarizing optical microscopy (POM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The organization of the ligand and complex molecules in the mesophase are investigated by X-ray diffraction techniques. The Schiff base ligand and its Cd-complex shows plastic columnar mesophase (Colp) at ∼82 and ∼86 °C, respectively. The polymeric Cd-complex is blue light emitter with a broad emission maximum at ∼475 nm on excitation at 380 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individualized lifestyle interventions using motivational interviewing (MI) approach are recommended for persons with severe mental illness (SMI) for effective weight management. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the effectiveness of various lifestyle interventions that addressed obesity among persons with SMI. Twelve RCTs were assessed by individual reviewers using revised cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2). The standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated with a 95% CI. The age of participants was between 18 and 70 years. Waist circumference showed an SMD of −0.09 (−0.22, 0.03), weight −0.03 (−0.10, 0.15) and BMI −0.07 (−0.07, 0.22). The findings in this meta-analysis revealed that though lifestyle interventions were statistically insignificant in reducing antipsychotic induced weight gain among persons with SMI, they show changes in intervention group. Psychosocial management along with lifestyle interventions, and MI are effective in the management of antipsychotic induced weight gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), and copper oxide/zinc oxide nanocomposites (CuO@ZnO NPs) were synthesized by green synthetic route where bioactive compounds inherently present in the leaf extract of Artemisia vulgaris act as stabilizing and reducing agents. Phytochemicals present in leaf extract were assessed by qualitative chemical tests and spectroscopic measurements. UV‐visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Energy Dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) were used to characterize the as‐synthesized nanomaterials, i.e., CuO, ZnO, and CuO@ZnO NPs. XRD pattern revealed the crystalline nature of nanoparticles. Based on the Debye–Scherrer formula, the sizes of CuO NPs, ZnO NPs, and CuO@ZnO NCs were found to be 17.24, 20.74, and 22.50 nm, respectively. The band gap of the as‐prepared nanomaterials was measured using the Tauc plot. Using the nanomaterials, MB degradation was studied at room temperature under exposure to UV light. The degradation efficiency of CuO, ZnO, and 2% CuO@ZnO was found to be 52%, 68%, and 98%, respectively. Kinetic degradation process reveals that the CuO@ZnO NCs showed a better photocatalytic activity on MB dye with the degradation constant of 0.04124 min−1 compared to those of either constituent. Based on the findings, it was found that CuO@ZnO nanocomposites have the potential to degrade MB as an organic dye and can be used for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing, melt pool characterization is one of the potential approaches toward rapid process qualification and efficient non-destructive evaluation of printed parts. Especially melt pool width measurement is crucial for understanding the print process regimes, estimating the solidified melt pool depth, and identifying any process anomalies, among other attributes of interest. While existing works focus on monitoring melt pools of single scan tracks or single layer prints, melt pool characterization for a multi-track multi-layer (MTML) LPBF print has not been extensively studied. In this work, we employ our lab-designed coaxial single-camera two-wavelength imaging pyrometry (STWIP) system to monitor in-situ melt pool properties during a MTML LPBF process. The STWIP-measured melt pool widths are validated using a serial sectioning machine (Robo-Met, UES). The in-situ STWIP and ex-situ Robo-Met measurement data are in close agreement with each other, having a mean absolute error and root mean squared error of 9.83 μm and 16.53 μm, respectively. Furthermore, we demonstrate the successful mapping of melt pool location and melt pool size on the printed MTML part. In sum, this work demonstrates the capability and the applicability of STWIP for accurate large-scale melt pool monitoring during LPBF processing of practical parts, thereby facilitating the development of LPBF process models and control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is the world's largest edible oil importer, and soybean oil accounts for a major portion of those imports, with implications for the Indian economy. Despite being the 4th largest globally in terms of harvested soybean area and 5th largest in terms of production, India is still heavily dependent on imports to meet the vegetable oil requirement for its population. It is therefore imperative to understand the dynamics and trends in India's soybean production to help the country achieve self-sufficiency in edible oils. This study provides the first spatially explicit analysis of soybean in India, using long-term spatial and temporal statistics at national and subnational levels, using spatial and temporal statistical analysis models to examine the historical trends and its future prospects. Our analysis details the overall soybean expansion across the country and the increase in production but we also note that the annual growth rate has declined in each consecutive decade even though the area continues to expand. The average national yield has been stagnant at around 1 T/Ha but for some of the low-producing districts, a higher yield of more than 3 T/ha is reported. For most major producing districts, soybean yields are below 1.5 T/Ha. The state of Madhya Pradesh which was the major soybean producer is now matched by the state of Maharashtra in terms of production, however, Madhya Pradesh still has the largest area under soybean. We analyzed soybean hotspot expansion in India and found that the mean center of the soybean area and production has shifted approximately 93 km towards the south and 24 km to the west as the crop is rapidly being adopted in the southern and western parts of India expanding the hotspot in these parts. District-level analysis showed that the total number of districts constituting hotspots of soybean cultivation in India has increased from 29 to 42 in three decades. Furthermore, analysis of soybean oil and meal consumption with respect to the national population, import, export, domestic production, GDP per capita, and price of soybean oil and meal suggests that soybean oil and meal are highly correlated with GDP per capita and population, indicating that consumption of soybean oil and meal is likely to increase as GDP per capita increases, and future demand is expected to rise with the anticipated growth in the Indian population. Increased soybean production can play a significant role in increasing national food security for India and reducing dependence on foreign oil imports and also help the economy with soy meal exports. Understanding the spatiotemporal variability in area and yield will help target interventions to increase production. Given the overall low yields with high variability in production, particularly in recent years primarily due to successive extreme rains and droughts in major producing districts and the overall need to increase production to meet the country's demand, there is a pressing need for government policies and research aimed at narrowing the yield gap and developing soybean varieties that are more productive and resilient to climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review, a highly pertinent and debatable issue in the maritime industry has been addressed. Although fracture mechanics theories have expanded substantially in recent decades, researchers of the present era in the marine industry still pay little attention in incorporating fracture characteristics into account while designing the structural components. Besides the fundamental strength characterization methodologies, which include establishing the ultimate strength, hardness and impact characteristics, the authors firmly advocate that the fracture parameters of the marine-grade materials must be carefully considered during structural design phase, decidedly for weldments of similar and distinct materials. Nonetheless, these types of paradigms are an inevitable part in prominent sectors, viz., nuclear reactors, pipeline industry and space missions. Owing to this, fracture mechanical investigations performed in marine fields incorporating the standard fracture parameters like stress intensity factor (K), J-integral (J), etc. are thoroughly discussed in this review. The application of different specimen types, viz., compact tension (CT) specimens, single edge notched bend (SENB) and single edge notched tension (SENT) specimens, is also succinctly summarized. The shortcomings of the experimental studies are suggested, and a thorough discussion is also done regarding the potential application of fracture mechanical characterization on marine grade materials and their weldments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]