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In an agriculture sector, the quality of several raw crops depends upon the time factor. After harvesting, it is necessary to bring the crops either to cold storage or directly to customer though wholesale dealers. Keeping crops in cold storage decrease the nutrition value and also increase the overall cost of the crop leading to price hike. So, it will be best if the crops are put in the market as soon as possible. This can only be possible if the logistic system is updated and can handle the real-time requirement of agriculture product transport. This study investigates and highlights the possible IoT-based logistic support using artificial intelligence for the farmers such that a fast corridor is created between farmers’ lands to end-user customers. This will benefit the farmers in two-fold; first, it will increase the revenue of farmers by decreasing the time span avoiding cold storage fees, and second, it will maintain the quality of crops.

Increased quantities of the same sort of item are not nearly as critical to client happiness as a high-quality product. The requirements and expectations of the consumer have an impact on the overall quality of a product or service. The term “quality” may also be defined as the sum total of all the features that contribute to the production of goods and services that are satisfactory to the consumer. Certain imported commodities have lately seen an improvement in quality thanks to efforts by importing nations. Additionally, it safeguards food imported from other nations by confirming that it is safe for human consumption before it is released. This article describes a technique for monitoring perishable goods that is based on the Internet of Things and machine learning. Pictures are recorded using high-resolution cameras in this suggested architecture, and then these images are sent to a cloud server using Internet of Things devices. When uploaded to a cloud server, these photos are segmented using the K-means clustering method. Then, using the principal component analysis technique, features are extracted from the photos, and the images are categorized using machine learning models that have been trained. This proposed model makes use of the Internet of Things, image processing, and machine learning to monitor perishable food.

Ziziphus spina-christi L. (ZscL) is a plant residue that has been used as adsorbent for the removal of Hg(II) ions from an aqueous solution. The ability of ZscL to adsorb Hg(II) ions was investigated by using the batch adsorption procedure. It was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to support the adsorption of Hg(II) ions. The effects of various parameters on the adsorption process, such as contact time, adsorbent concentration, solution pH and initial concentrations of metal ions were studied to optimize the conditions for maximum adsorption. Experimental equilibrium data were fitted to the Freundlich, Langmuir, Dubinin-Radushkevich, Halsey and Temkin (two parameter models), Redlich-Peterson, Sips, Khan, Hill, Radke-Prausnitz, Langmuir-Freundlich and Toth (three parameter models), Fritz-Schlunder and Baudu (four parameter models) and Fritz-Schlunder (five parameter model) at 30°C by using nonlinear regression analysis. The examination of error analysis methods showed that the Halsey model provides the best fit for experimental data compared with the other isotherms. Various kinetic models have been applied to the experimental data to predict the adsorption kinetics. It was found that pseudo-second-order rate was better obeyed than pseudo-first-order reaction, supporting that the chemisorption process was involved. The obtained results show that ZscL can be used as an effective and natural low-cost adsorbent for the removal of Hg(II) ions from aqueous solutions.

Retama raetam (RR), a desert plant, was chemically modified by the reaction with succinic acid at high temperature to form succinic acid treated R. raetam (STRR). Three levels containing different carboxyl contents of STRR were prepared. Native RR and STRR were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and estimation of carboxyl content to support the adsorption of Pb(II) ions. The STRR adsorbent was utilized as adsorbent material for the removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The effect of various parameters like pH, adsorbent concentration, contact time, temperature and initial concentration was investigated using batch process to optimize conditions for maximum adsorption. The adsorbent data were analyzed using two-, three-, four- and five-parameter models at 30°C by non-linear regression analysis. The examination of error analysis methods showed that the Langmuir-Freundlich model provides the best fit for experimental data compared with other isotherms. The maximum biosorption capacity of Pb(II) ions was up to 270.27 mg/g at 30°C. The thermodynamics constants of the adsorption process, viz., ΔHo, ΔGo and ΔSo, were evaluated. The results showed that the adsorption of Pb(II) ions onto STRR was endothermic and spontaneous. The adsorption data followed second-order kinetics, supporting that chemisorption process was involved.

In the present study, we reported the feasibility of the Sesbania sesban L. as a biosorbent to remove Pb(II) from aqueous solutions. The ability of S. sesban L. to adsorb Pb(II) was investigated by using batch adsorption procedure. Such effects as pH, contact time, adsorbate concentration, and biosorbent dosage on the adsorption capacity were studied. The experimental data were analyzed using various adsorption kinetic models, namely, pseudo-first-order model, the pseudo-second-order model, Batacharia-Venkobachar, the Elovich equation, the intraparticle diffusion model, and Bangham equation. Results show that the pseudo-second-order equation provides the best correlation for the biosorption process. To determine the best fit isotherm, the experimental equilibrium data were analyzed using two-parameter (Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich, and Tempkin) and three-parameter isotherms (Redlich-Peterson, Sips, Khan, and Toth). The examination of error analysis methods showed that the Langmuir isotherm model and Redlich-Peterson models provide the best fit for experimental data than other isotherms. Sebania sesban L. is found to be inexpensive and effective adsorbent for removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solutions.

Investigating the use of case studies as a teaching strategy to enhance the critical thinking skills of the students is the basic objective of this study. By discovering content and procedural issues, best practices are investigated and ways are discovered to foster critical thinking, as a result of which the students tend to develop the ability to think critically. This research employed mixed research methods and used the SPSS program for data analysis. The participants in this research are 42 students from the business management program of leadership and group dynamics course in applied sciences university (ASU) in the kingdom of Bahrain. Based on the research findings, the critical thinking skills of the students have been a consequence of the case study method. The findings of this research may have significant value for other higher education institutions in the wider Gulf region. If the case studies method is used in teaching, it will greatly contribute to the leadership and group dynamics educators in nurturing active learning. Additionally, it is likely to inculcate critical thinking skills, which are highly significant to develop leadership capabilities.

This article aims to critique a published paper according to UK professional Standard Framework (UKPSF). The critiqued paper in this article was written by Loftin, Davis, and Hartin (2010) that provide clarity and meaning for classroom participation from the nursing student perspective at West Texas A&M University. The article shows that the title of the published paper was not reflected the purpose of the study, the literature review, and the results. Besides that, the critiqued paper provided clarity and meaning of the classroom participation, but the results explained the factors behind the reluctance of the student in the participation. This article contributes to the body of the knowledge in higher education and provides valuable facts about the practices of instructors and peers that lead to improving the students' participation.

This study assesses the effect of the use of educational videos on the participation of 24 students at the Applied Science University in Bahrain The findings revealed that educational videos which were selected either by the researcher or by the students have a direct and positive effect on increasing the students' participation in the classroom. It was found that the educational videos that were selected by the students have a greater effect in this respect than these videos selected by the researcher.

Simple Summary: The sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) has been successfully implemented to suppress or eradicate pestiferous species of Lepidoptera. The SIT/IS involves the release of mass-reared and gamma-irradiated moths (partially sterile males and fully sterile females) to achieve matings with wild moths. The success of any SIT/IS project depends, inter alia, on the overflooding ratio of released sterile moths to wild moths and the efficiency of male-only versus bi-sex releases of irradiated moths. The current laboratory study aims to understand the efficacy of overflooding ratios and the use of male-only releases compared with bi-sex releases for SIT/IS against the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller). This laboratory study explored the concept of whether irradiated male-only releases are more or equally efficient as releases of both irradiated males and females in the context of using the sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) for the management of the European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana. The current study examined the mating competitiveness of 150-Gy-treated L. botrana male and female moths or 150-Gy-treated male moths only, with untreated moths in laboratory cages. Our results showed that the release of both sexes significantly increased the competitiveness value (C) and the biological efficiency index (BE) as compared with male-only release, and this was independent of the male to untreated male ratio. Moreover, a single release of 150-Gy-treated and untreated males and females at a 1:1:10:10 ratio (untreated male:untreated female: treated male:treated female) significantly reduced egg hatch, and the number of first-generation offspring (F1) was small. The emergence of F2-moths per untreated F1 male and female moth was low, but these undesired fertile moths should be eliminated in order to achieve effective control. The results presented herein provide useful information on the impact of 150-Gy-treated male-only, versus releases of both treated males and females on untreated moths, which is essential to managing L. botrana populations with SIT/IS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares how Day-to-day Experience (DTDE) and company Corporate Governance (CG) affect an individual investor's decision-making. The researchers used 192 samples of individual investors trading on the PSX to accomplish this goal. For the estimation of research models, the OLS method is used. The results showed that DTDE and CG had a considerable & favorable impact on investors' investment decisions. As a result, DTDE weighs more heavily on investment decisions in Pakistan's financial sector than CG of the organization. This research will help boost the confidence of individual investors by raising their level of awareness about equity market investing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

US foreign policy can be regarded as a significant motive of many events and policies at the regional and international levels. Possibly, the significance of US foreign policy towards Iran stems from the great position of both countries. Many other regional and international policies, as well as Iran, which is an important and influential player in a large number of issues, especially at the regional level, in addition to the most noticeable issue through which it interacts with a large number of main powers, led by the United States of America, as is the case with the Iranian nuclear program. And the US foreign policy towards Iran came with the supposition of (Joe Biden) government is different from that of his predecessor (Donald Trump). From hardiness and forcing more sanctions and constricting the trap politically and economically on Iran to a new policy with a completely different view and awareness (which from the point of view of the new administration did not bring any real results about stopping the Iranian nuclear program and thus achieve the American interest), among the new directions that it adopted (Joe Biden) that more sanctions and tension in relations with Iran have not worked, or at least do not serve the American interest, as the existence of hostile or tense relations with Iran with all the elements that Iran possesses of geopolitical and political power and important natural resources may push it to be Companies and cooperation with other parties that represent a threat to American exclusivity, as is the case with Russia and China. Thus, the United States of America turned to make its foreign policy with Iran (at least in principle) one based on finding solutions to Iran's nuclear program, which poses a threat to it and its allies in the region, while at the same time not allowing Iran to form strategic alliances in the region by countries seeking to challenge uniqueness that may signify a real threat to American interests, especially with the existence of projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present high‐resolution profiles of dissolved, labile, and total particulate trace metals (TMs) on the Northeast Greenland shelf from GEOTRACES cruise GN05 in August 2016. Combined with radium isotopes, stable oxygen isotopes, and noble gas measurements, elemental distributions suggest that TM dynamics were mainly regulated by the mixing between North Atlantic‐derived Intermediate Water, enriched in labile particulate TMs (LpTMs), and Arctic surface waters, enriched in Siberian shelf‐derived dissolved TMs (dTMs; Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Ni) carried by the Transpolar Drift. These two distinct sources were delineated by salinity‐dependent variations of dTM and LpTM concentrations and the proportion of dTMs relative to the total dissolved and labile particulate ratios. Locally produced meltwater from the Nioghalvfjerdsbræ (79NG) glacier cavity, distinguished from other freshwater sources using helium excess, contributed a large pool of dTMs to the shelf inventory. Localized peaks in labile and total particulate Cd, Co, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, Al, V, and Ti in the cavity outflow, however, were not directly contributed by submarine melting. Instead, these particulate TMs were mainly supplied by the re‐suspension of cavity sediment particles. Currently, Arctic Ocean outflows are the most important source of dFe, dCu, and dNi on the shelf, while LpTMs and up to 60% of dMn and dCo are mainly supplied by subglacial discharge from the 79NG cavity. Therefore, changes in the cavity‐overturning dynamics of 79NG induced by glacial retreat, and alterations in the transport of Siberian shelf‐derived materials with the Transport Drift may shift the shelf dTM‐LpTM stoichiometry in the future. Plain Language Summary: Trace metals (TMs) including cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni) are essential micronutrients for marine productivity. The Northeast Greenland shelf is a climatically sensitive region, influenced by both outflowing Arctic waters and local glacier melting. We lack knowledge on how these Arctic surface waters affect TM dynamics on the Greenland shelf and how climatic shifts may influence TM dynamics. Here, we distinguish local submarine meltwater from Arctic surface waters using distinct tracers; noble gases and radium isotopes. We show that the TM dynamics on the shelf are largely controlled by the intrusion of Arctic surface waters which creates a near‐surface plume of dissolved and labile particulate TMs. Conversely, submarine meltwater creates a subsurface plume enriched in dissolved TMs but depleted in particulate TMs, which is exported from underneath a floating ice tongue. In the future, increasing Arctic river discharge and local glacial melting may both significantly change shelf micronutrient ratios demonstrating downstream impacts of a changing cryosphere on marine biogeochemical cycles. Key Points: The overall dissolved and particulate trace metal (TM) dynamics were mainly regulated by the mixing with Arctic surface watersResuspension of cavity sediments is a major localized source of labile and total particulate Cd, Co, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, Al, V, and TiWhilst dissolved and particulate TMs are mostly coupled on the Greenland shelf, cavity outflow decouples both phases [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrations of the toxic element lead (Pb) are elevated in seawater due to historical emissions. While anthropogenic atmospheric emissions are the dominant source of dissolved Pb (dPb) to the Atlantic Ocean, evidence is emerging of a natural source associated with subglacial discharge into the ocean but this has yet to be constrained around Greenland. Here, we show subglacial discharge from the cavity underneath Nioghalvfjerdsbræ floating ice tongue, is a previously unrecognized source of dPb to the NE Greenland Shelf. Contrasting cavity‐inflowing and cavity‐outflowing waters, we constrain the associated net‐dPb flux as 2.2 ± 1.4 Mg·yr−1, of which ∼90% originates from dissolution of glacial bedrock and cavity sediments. We propose that the retreat of the floating ice tongue, the ongoing retreat of many glaciers on Greenland, associated shifts in sediment dynamics, and enhanced meltwater discharges into shelf waters may result in pronounced changes, possibly increases, in net‐dPb fluxes to coastal waters. Plain Language Summary: Lead (Pb) is a toxic element. Hundreds of thousands of tons have historically been emitted into the atmosphere through use of leaded gasoline, ore‐smelting and coal‐combustion which led to large‐scale deposition of Pb into the ocean and onto the Greenland Ice Sheet. Since the phase‐out of leaded gasoline, concentrations of dissolved Pb in the surface ocean have declined, increasing the relative importance of other, natural sources of Pb to the marine environment. In 2016, we conducted a survey near Nioghalvfjerdsbræ, one of Greenland's largest marine‐terminating glaciers, to investigate if Greenland Ice Sheet discharge is a source of Pb to the Northeast Greenland Shelf. We observed elevated dissolved Pb concentrations at intermediate depths within a ⁓60 km radius downstream of the Nioghalvfjerdsbræ terminus. The Pb enrichment originates from underneath the glacier's floating ice tongue. Lead sources underneath Nioghalvfjerdsbræ likely include Pb from eroded bedrock and exchange with fjord sediments. Our calculations suggest that Nioghalvfjerdsbræ dissolved Pb discharge is comparable to that from small Arctic rivers. Given the widespread occurance of Pb‐rich minerals across Greenland, observed increases in meltwater discharge and the retreat of marine‐terminating glaciers could increase dPb supply to Greenlandic shelf regions. Key Points: Helium and neon show strong evidence for a subglacial source of Pb discharging onto the NE Greenland ShelfContrasting inflowing and outflowing waters beneath the floating ice tongue of Nioghalvfjerdsbræ shows a 2‐3‐fold dPb enrichmentThe dissolved Pb flux from Nioghalvfjerdsbræ (2.2 ± 1.4 Mg·yr−1) is comparable to small Arctic rivers, with ∼90% of a sedimentary origin [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present labile (L‐pTM) and refractory (R‐pTM) particulate trace metal distributions of Fe, Mn, Al, Ti, Co, Zn, Cd, Ni, Pb, Cu, and P for a transect along the southwest African shelf and an off‐shore section at 3°S of the GEOTRACES GA08 section cruise. Particle sources and biogeochemical cycling processes are inferred using particle‐type proxies and elemental ratios. Enhanced concentrations of bio‐essential L‐pTMs (Zn, Cu, Ni, Cd, Co, and P) were observed in the Benguela upwelling region, attributed to enhanced primary production. Bio‐essential pTM stoichiometric ratios (normalized to pP) were consistent with phytoplankton biomass across the transect, except for Fe and Mn, which included adsorbed and labile oxide phases. Low pP lability (∼41%) suggests a potential refractory biogenic source on the Benguela shelf. Variable labilities observed between stations along the transect indicated potentially different biogenic pP labilities among different plankton groups. Benthic resuspension was prevalent in (near‐)bottom waters along the transect and formed an important source of Fe and Mn oxides. Lithogenic particles along the entire shelf were Mn deficient and particles on the Benguela shelf were enriched in Fe, consistent with regional sediment compositions. Enhanced available‐Fe (dissolved + labile particulate Fe) concentrations (up to 39.6 nM) were observed in oxygen‐deficient (near‐)bottom waters of the Benguela shelf coinciding with low L‐pMn. This was attributed to the faster oxidation kinetics of Fe, allowing Fe‐oxide precipitation and retention on the shelf, while Mn oxidation was slower. Enhanced L‐pFe in the Congo River plume, which comprised as much as 93% of the available‐Fe pool, was attributed to increased scavenging and formation of Fe oxides. Increased scavenging of other particle‐reactive trace metals (TMs) (Mn, Al, and Pb) was also apparent in Congo‐influenced waters. However, particles did not play a significant role in transporting TMs off‐shelf within Congo plume waters. Plain Language Summary: Trace metals (TMs) are important to the functioning of marine ecosystems, with a range of TMs required as micronutrients by phytoplankton, while some are contaminants, and others may serve as tracers of water masses. Marine particles are key to the biogeochemical cycling of most TMs as sources, sinks, and essential transport vectors in the ocean. The transport and fate of TMs are often multi‐faceted and upon a multitude of inter‐related factors including particle sources/types, and environmental conditions, many of which are directly evident on continental shelves. Continental shelves thus are important conduits through which TMs are transferred from land to the ocean. Despite their importance, shelves are still understudied with respect to trace metal cycling. Here we present data from the longest continental shelf transect for TMs to date, which traversed through several key biogeochemical regimes, including an oxygen depleted zone, upwelling region, and a river plume, providing unique gradients under which particles from various sources and internal cycling processes were studied. A chemical leach was applied to marine particles to differentiate between particle types and phases. Utilizing the contrasting marine environments and particle types encountered along the transect, we highlight the major biogeochemical cycling dynamics controlling trace metal distributions, which provide valuable regional insights which may be extended to other regions of the global ocean. Key Points: Different oxidation kinetics lead to decoupled Fe and Mn oxide redox cycling within oxygen‐depleted waters on the Benguela ShelfLower lability of particulate phosphorus (∼41%) indicate potential refractory biogenic source on Benguela shelfNepheloid particles formed important sources of Fe and Mn oxides that adsorb trace metals (TMs), and serve as potential TM sources from shelf to open ocean [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract General and electronic health literacy are important factors engaging in healthy behaviors and maintaining good health. The present study explored demographic factors associated with general and electronic health literacy in the Iranian adult population. Via stratified cluster sampling, trained interviewers visited adult residents in Qazvin Province, Iran between January, and April 2022. The participants (N = 9775; mean age = 36.44 years; 6576 [67.3%] females) completed the Health Literacy Instrument for Adults (HELIA) assessing health literacy and the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS) assessing electronic health literacy. Demographic data, including age, gender, educational level, marital status, and living location (city or rural), were collected. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to classify the participants into different health literacy/electronic health literacy levels. The relationships between health literacy/electronic health literacy levels and demographic factors were examined using χ2 or analysis of variance. The LCA used HELIA scores to suggest five classes of health literacy and eHEALS scores to suggest three classes of electronic health literacy. For general and electronic health literacy, similar relationships were with demographic factors: females as compared with males had better general/electronic health literacy; younger people as compared with older people had better general/electronic health literacy; higher educational level was associated with better general/electronic health literacy; and city residents as compared with rural residents had better general/electronic health literacy. In conclusion, Iranian governmental agencies may wish to target on males, older adults, people with low educational level, and rural residents to improve their health literacy.

Abstract Background Health literacy and e‐health literacy are important factors helping people shape awareness of health behaviours in different aspects, including sleep hygiene behaviours. Good sleep hygiene behaviours promote sleep quality and are beneficial to overall mental wellbeing. Objective We aimed to examine if sleep hygiene behaviours may mediate the association between health literacy/e‐health literacy and mental wellbeing. Methods Adult Iranian subjects (n = 9775; mean [SD] age = 36.44 [11.97] years; 67.3% females) completed the Health Literacy Instrument for Adults, eHealth Literacy Scale, three items on sleep hygiene behaviour that have been used in prior research and the Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Data were then subjected to structural equation modelling (SEM) including 500 bootstrapping resampling to examine whether sleep hygiene is a mediator in the relationship between health literacy/e‐health literacy and mental wellbeing. Findings Both health literacy and e‐health literacy were significantly associated with mental wellbeing (r = .63 for health literacy and .39 for e‐health literacy; p

A peer-to-peer (P2P) decentralized information-sharing network is used to share data and maintain security, privacy, and integrity standards called blockchain. In this case, information sharing and updating require regular simplification. The presented systematic review mainly focuses on the interoperability of electronic health records (EHRs) using blockchain. Correspondingly, 18 blockchain-based solutions were selected to address the interoperability challenges of EHRs. The limitation of solutions includes reliability, privacy, integrity, sharing, and standards. This systematic review contains six phase's research question, research phase, article selection, abstract-based keyword, data extraction, and progress tracking. Various Web resources such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, and IEEE are used to extract the relevant manuscripts. Primarily, 18 articles were selected to present the interoperable requirements of EHRs using blockchain, standards of blockchain-based EHRs, and solutions for interoperability of EHRs using blockchain. The conducted study explains the best available interoperable blockchain-based EHR standards, implementations, applications, and challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Environment-friendly and sustainable insect pest control approaches such as the sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) have been proposed against the European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana. Reproductive behaviour, such as oviposition, mating ability, and multiple mating of 150 Gy-treated females, was studied. Moreover, the last-male sperm precedence (P2 value) and male's flight response to treated females were also investigated. The present study aims to provide basic information which is essential to ensure successful implementation of SIT/IS as part of an integrated approach for the management of L. botrana. The sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) has been suggested as an eco-friendly control tactic for area-wide integrated pest management approaches in order to control the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana. This study assessed the effects of an irradiation dose of 150 Gy administered to newly emerged female moths on their egg laying behaviour and mating ability at different ages at mating. Moreover, the effects of multiple mating on the mating ability of treated females, pattern of sperm precedence in twice-mated females and the flight response of treated and untreated males to treated and untreated calling females were also investigated. Females treated with 150 Gy initiated calling in a way similar to untreated females. When treated females were paired with untreated males, the mean number of eggs oviposited per female during 6 days was reduced (59.6 and 82.8 eggs/female, respectively), as was their mating ability and multiple mating compared with untreated females. The proportion of offspring fertilized by the second of the two males to mate with the female or last-male sperm precedence (P2 value) constituted 97% of the eggs, suggesting that the second male mate fathered the most offspring. The outcome of this work could be viewed as an integrated approach for improving effectiveness and enabling successful implementation of a SIT/IS program against L. botrana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an agriculture sector, the quality of several raw crops depends upon the time factor. After harvesting, it is necessary to bring the crops either to cold storage or directly to customer though wholesale dealers. Keeping crops in cold storage decrease the nutrition value and also increase the overall cost of the crop leading to price hike. So, it will be best if the crops are put in the market as soon as possible. This can only be possible if the logistic system is updated and can handle the real-time requirement of agriculture product transport. This study investigates and highlights the possible IoT-based logistic support using artificial intelligence for the farmers such that a fast corridor is created between farmers' lands to end-user customers. This will benefit the farmers in two-fold; first, it will increase the revenue of farmers by decreasing the time span avoiding cold storage fees, and second, it will maintain the quality of crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased quantities of the same sort of item are not nearly as critical to client happiness as a high-quality product. The requirements and expectations of the consumer have an impact on the overall quality of a product or service. The term "quality" may also be defined as the sum total of all the features that contribute to the production of goods and services that are satisfactory to the consumer. Certain imported commodities have lately seen an improvement in quality thanks to efforts by importing nations. Additionally, it safeguards food imported from other nations by confirming that it is safe for human consumption before it is released. This article describes a technique for monitoring perishable goods that is based on the Internet of Things and machine learning. Pictures are recorded using high-resolution cameras in this suggested architecture, and then these images are sent to a cloud server using Internet of Things devices. When uploaded to a cloud server, these photos are segmented using the K-means clustering method. Then, using the principal component analysis technique, features are extracted from the photos, and the images are categorized using machine learning models that have been trained. This proposed model makes use of the Internet of Things, image processing, and machine learning to monitor perishable food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel biosorbent ('Manna_COOH') was synthesized via dual reaction stages of direct carbonylation of hydroxyl groups of richly cellulosic manna root powder and subsequent esterification of the resultant anhydride analogue into an ester of high carboxyl content. Both the biosorbent precursor and the 2,3-dihydroxybutanedioic acid sustain complementary features that ensured their efficient complexation. The biosorbent depicted a carboxyl content of 412.36 m.eq -COOH/100 g sample and was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The study further evaluated the cobalt ion adsorption capacity of the synthesized 'Manna_COOH' under the effect of some process variable via batch mode. The Freundlich and pseudo-second-order models emerged as the best fit for the equilibrium and kinetic data, respectively. The rich oxygen-based surface functional groups entrenched on the 'Manna_COOH' sequel to its functionalization played a major role in making it a promising biosorbent for aqueous Co (II) uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficacy of treated sodium alginate (TSA) and activated carbon fibre (ACF) for aqueous Pb(II) uptake was comparatively investigated. By employing FTIR, SEM, EDX, XRD, point of zero charges and surface area measurements, the available functional groups, morphology, crystallinity, surface charge and surface areas of both adsorbents were respectively elucidated. The Pb(II) uptake performance of both adsorbents was also studied via batch mode at varied process conditions. The experimental isotherm and kinetic data for both adsorbents were best fitted to nonlinear forms of Langmuir and pseudo-first-order models, respectively. Similarly, intraparticle diffusion was the sole controlling mechanism. Despite the huge variation in the surface area, TSA (7.8 m2/g) with high carboxyl content (395.6 meq-COOH/100 g of sample) performed better by all standards than the ACF (975 m2/g). This finding showed that although the surface area of a given adsorbent is a key indicator of its adsorptive performance, the inherent surface functional groups play a superior role. The experimentally derived maximum adsorption capacities of 221.25 mg/g (for TSA) and 183.34 mg/g (for ACF) were recorded at an equilibrium time of 30 min and 45 min, respectively. Therefore, TSA and ACF demonstrated effectiveness for aqueous Pb (II) sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclonic ocean eddies drive upwelling of deep waters enhanced in nutrients, which can elevate phytoplankton productivity. At mid‐latitudes in the North Atlantic, satellite images show enhanced chlorophyll‐a associated with eddies. However, surface macronutrient concentrations are often not fully depleted in this region, implying enhanced macronutrient supply is not the primary control. We conducted high resolution sampling through two mid‐latitude Atlantic eddies in late spring, located 800 and 350 km east of the Newfoundland Grand Banks. Waters outside of both eddies had unused residual macronutrients, low dissolved iron, and iron‐stressed phytoplankton. Inside both eddies, plankton biomass was higher and macronutrient concentrations lower. However, full macronutrient drawdown and an absence of iron stress were only present in the eddy nearer the continental shelf. From these two examples, iron supply and proximity to shelf iron sources appear to be important factors regulating productivity and macronutrient utilization in mid‐latitude North Atlantic cyclonic eddies. Plain Language Summary: Satellites show that circulating currents of water, eddies, in the mid‐high latitude North Atlantic often have elevated amounts of phytoplankton. This has been ascribed to enhanced nutrient and light availability. However, the background field (that is, outside eddies) in this region have elevated light in late spring and summer, and macronutrient concentrations (nitrate, phosphate, silicate) are not particularly depleted. To investigate this in more detail, we sailed through two North Atlantic eddies in late spring making measurements of phytoplankton, nutrients, and trace elements. Our results indicated that the background field was depleted in the micronutrient iron relative to other nutrients and additional experimental tests confirmed that phytoplankton were iron‐stressed. We therefore hypothesize that elevated iron supply to sunlit surface waters, via eddy‐driven upwelling, is a key factor enhancing phytoplankton in the region. This was supported by concentrations of manganese, a tracer of sedimentary iron, which were elevated within the eddy where Fe stress was fully relieved. Our results suggest enhanced iron supply to surface waters in eddies is an important factor regulating the distribution of phytoplankton in this region; this in turn would be an important regulator of higher trophic levels, including fish and seabird stocks. Key Points: Drivers of enhanced productivity in two mid‐latitude North Atlantic cyclonic eddies were investigatedDetailed biogeochemical measurements and experiments suggested enhanced iron was a key driverEnhanced sediment iron supply to the eddy near continental shelf is proposed to have driven full within‐eddy macronutrient utilization [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Recent studies suggest that the phosphaturic hormone fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is involved in regulation of renal sodium excretion and blood pressure. There is evidence of both direct effects via regulation of the sodium-chloride symporter (NCC) in the distal tubule, and indirect effects through interactions with the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. However, clinical data on the association between FGF23 and renal sodium regulation is lacking. Herein, we investigated the associations of FGF23 with renal sodium handling and blood pressure in non-dialysis CKD patients. Methods This was a cross-sectional study encompassing 180 CKD patients Stage 1–5, undergoing renal biopsy. Plasma intact FGF23, 24-h urinary sodium excretion, fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) and blood pressure were measured at baseline. The association between FGF23 and renal sodium handling was explored by multivariate regression analysis. Results The median age was 52.8 years, 60.6% were men and the median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 50.6 mL/min/1.73 m2. In univariate analysis, FGF23 was positively associated with FENa (Spearman's rho   =   0.47; P   <   0.001) and systolic blood pressure (rho   =   0.17, P   <   0.05), but not with plasma sodium, 24-h urinary sodium excretion or mean arterial blood pressure. The association between FGF23 and FENa remained significant after adjustment for potential confounders (multivariable adjusted β coefficient 0.60, P   <   0.001). This association was stronger among the 107 individuals with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73   m2 (β   = 0.47, P   =   0.04) and in the 73 individuals on any diuretics (β = 0.88, P   <   0.001). Adjustment for measured GFR instead of eGFR did not alter the relationship. Conclusions FGF23 is independently associated with increased FENa in non-dialysis CKD patients. These data do not support the notion that FGF23 causes clinically significant sodium retention. Further studies are warranted to explore the mechanism underlying this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collected data included socio-demographic information and measurements of health literacy, e-health literacy, mental well-being, and sleep hygiene behaviors. The study aimed to provide insights regarding health literacy status and related factors in the general population residing in Qazvin province, Iran. The findings of the study will assist health authorities and policy makers in developing and implementing effective interventions, which in turn, improving health literacy in the community. Additionally, the findings can also aid health sector workers, including non-communicable disease researchers, public health experts, health education specialists, epidemiologists, and sociologists, in their work to improve health literacy and overall health outcomes among general population. Therefore, the present study used paper-pencil method with multi-stage cluster sampling to collect data. Trained research associates (n=25) collected data from 9775 people living in Qazvin province between January and April 2022. All the participants completed the study questionnaires using self-reported paper-pencil mode.

Recurrent angina after coronary artery bypass grafting is rarely caused by left subclavian artery (LSCA) stenosis resulting in reduced left internal mammary artery blood flow. We present 2 cases of coronary-subclavian artery steal syndrome resulting from LSCA stenosis and their successful surgical management with left carotid to LSCA bypass. Based on the successful management described in this case report, and the limitations of other options in addressing coronary-subclavian artery steal syndrome, left carotid to LSCA bypass surgery should be considered for revascularization in patients who develop postoperative coronary-subclavian artery steal syndrome due to LSCA stenosis. Résumé: La récidive d’angine après le pontage aortocoronarien est rarement causée par la sténose de l’artère sous-clavière gauche (ASCG) entraînant la réduction du débit sanguin de l’artère mammaire interne. Nous présentons deux cas de syndrome du vol coronaro-sous-clavier résultant de la sténose de l’ASCG et la réussite de leur prise en charge par pontage entre l’artère carotide gauche et l’ASCG. Compte tenu de la réussite de la prise en charge décrite dans cette observation et des limites des autres options dans le traitement du syndrome du vol coronaro-sous-clavier, le pontage entre l’artère carotide gauche et l’ASCG devrait être envisagé lors de la revascularisation des patients qui présentent le syndrome du vol coronaro-sous-clavier postopératoire en raison de la sténose de l’ASCG.

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Trace metals and macronutrients play key roles in marine biogeochemical processes. Despite their higher availability, no reliable information is available on their ecological role in the hypersaline waters of NW Arabian Gulf. The present study identifies their synergistic effect on environmental characteristics and autotrophic biomass in the shallow coastal and offshore waters, off Kuwait on a seasonal basis. Surface water samples collected along four predefined transects were analyzed for physico-chemical and biological variables during summer (n = 27) and winter (n = 27) seasons. Multivariate analyses revealed clear spatial and seasonal trends, and identified the best suit of environmental variables responsible for the seasonal variability in phytoplankton biomass. Using statistically derived supply to demand ratios, carbon-trace metal stoichiometry, and bioavailability of trace metals, we propose possible growth regulating factors for phytoplankton on a seasonal basis in the NW Arabian Gulf, off Kuwait. This is the first report on trace metals from the entire Arabian Gulf, using clean techniques and multivariate statistical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The use of cementless, modular, distally fixed stem in hip revision arthroplasty has increased during the last decades. We aimed to analyze the early and late postoperative complications, re-operation rate, and survival rate of the MP stem operated at our county hospital with relatively limited caseload. Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 132 hips operated with MP stem between January 2007-2014. An independent observer reviewed patients' medical records in July 2015 (18-102 months postoperatively, median 52.5) to collect the following data: age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, body mass index, indication of revision, type of operation, early and late complications, re-operation rate, and mortality during study period. Results: The commonest indication for MP stem operation was aseptic loosening (72%). We found early and late postoperative complications in 29% of cases. The most common complication was prosthetic dislocation (8%), followed by intra-operative peri-prosthetic fracture (5%). The commonest indication for MP re-operation was soft tissue revision for infection (7%) followed by closed reduction for prosthetic dislocation (6%). We found no correlation between the age, sex, ASA class, and type of operation and the re-operation risk. Only one prosthesis was extracted giving a survival rate for 99% for the study period. Conclusion: This study showed good results of the MP prosthesis with reasonable complication and re-operation rates and negligible extraction rate, indicating the good performance of this implant even when used in the setting of a county hospital with limited caseload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There were some errors in the original publication in the Abstract and Results sections [...]

Health literacy is important for health behavior engagement. Therefore, it is important to have a good instrument assessing health literacy with a theoretical framework. The present study aimed to examine the measurement invariance and differential item functioning (DIF) of a newly developed health literacy instrument; that is, the Health Literacy Instrument for Adults (HELIA). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Rasch models were used to examine the data collected from a large Iranian sample (N = 9775; 67.3% females; mean age = 36.44 years). All the participants completed the HELIA. CFA was used to examine if the HELIA had a five-factor structure (including reading, access to information, understanding, appraisal, and decision making/behavioral intention factors) and multigroup CFA to examine if the five-factor structure of HELIA was invariant across gender, educational level, accommodation, and age subgroups. Rasch models were used to examine whether each factor of HELIA was unidimensional and DIF contrast in Rasch to examine if the HELIA items were interpreted similarly across the aforementioned subgroups. The CFA results supported the five-factor structure of HELIA, and the Rasch models verified that each HELIA factor is unidimensional. Additionally, multigroup CFA supported the measurement invariance of HELIA across the following subgroups: male vs. female; highly educated vs. poorly educated; city residents vs. suburban residents; and younger age vs. older age. The DIF contrasts in the Rasch models additionally showed that there are no substantial DIF items in the HELIA across aforementioned subgroups. Therefore, the HELIA is a feasible and comprehensive instrument assessing health literacy across different populations in Iran.