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We investigated the annual gametogenic phenology of the freshwater pearl mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck, 1819), collected from a lentic habitat at Mymensingh, Bangladesh, using biometry and histology through monthly sampling from August 2015 to July 2016. After biometric measurements, thin slices of dorso-ventral sections were cut from the middle of the mussels for histology to determine sex and level of gonadal maturation. The condition index (CI) ranged from 0.64 (March) to 0.99 (January) over the study period. The CI peaked three times (January, April and July) indicating that the mussels were ripe during these months and subsequent decreases in CI indicated spawning, which was consistent with histology. Both males and females exhibited similar patterns in terms of gonadal development, maturation and spawning activity. It was confirmed that natural populations of L. marginalis spawn throughout the year with remarkable temporal variations, except during December when the surface water temperature reaches annual minima (16.5°C). Highest spawning activity of L. marginalis was noted during February–March, May and July–November. The data obtained in the present study could be useful for the conservation managers of this commercial species by allowing harvesting of better quality mussels to be timed without interrupting major spawning activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations have shown the traces of antibiotics in surface water, groundwater, wastewater treatment plants, and drinking water. However, conventional wastewater treatment is not entirely effective for vancomycin degradation. Advanced oxidation is one of the most widespread methods of antibiotic degradation in aqueous media. Vancomycin was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to explore and optimise the effect of the independent variables on vancomycin degradation. Independent variables were as follows: pH (3–11), vancomycin concentration (15–75 mg/L), TiO2–clinoptilolite (25–125 mg in 250 mL reactor volume), the temperature (25–45°C), and the reaction time (15–75 min). The validity and adequacy of the model were confirmed by the corresponding statistics (F–value = 111.5, correlation coefficient R2 = 0.98, adjusted R2 = 0.97, and prediction R2 = 0.95). The vancomycin degradation efficiency was 97% under optimal conditions (pH = 5, vancomycin concentration = 30 mg/L, TiO2-clinoptilolite content = 50.2 mg in a 250 mL reactor volume, temperature = 32.24°C, and reaction time = 50.9 min). This process followed the zero-order reaction kinetics model (R2 = 0.98), and the removal rate of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) under optimal conditions was 56%. The results indicated that supporting TiO2 on clinoptilolite particles could increase the photocatalytic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution, a pervasive environmental crisis, arises from the improper disposal of non-biodegradable plastics, endangering species and ecosystems worldwide. While microplastics (MPs) have been extensively studied in various ecosystems, they have received scant attention in port environments, despite their pervasive presence. This review selected published articles conducted in ports worldwide between 2010 and 2024 to determine the concentration, accumulation characteristics, and driving factors. A total of 57 studies across 78 ports met the selection criteria, examining water, sediment, and biota in 49, 51, and 23 ports, respectively. The average concentrations of MPs in water collected by net and grab sampling, sediment, fish, and invertebrates were approximately 39.2 ± 68.4 items/m3, 4100.7 ± 5761.8 items/m3, 243.6 ± 240.2 items/kg, 26.1 ± 21.1 items/individual, and 9.4 ± 8.1 items/individual in ports worldwide, respectively. Asia and the Americas exhibited the highest concentration of MPs in ports across all media. The dominant MP morphotypes included fibers, fragments, films, foams, pellets, and spheres, with sizes frequently between 1 and 1000 μm in biota and water and between 1 and 5 mm in sediments. Port structures and the presence of rivers are key drivers of MP accumulation. MP pollution in ports poses potential ecological and health risks. Among the studied ports, 23% had MP numbers in sediment greater than the predicted no effect concentration (PNEC). The presence of MP in biota and the capability of MP to adsorb other contaminants pose a threat to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study involved the exploration of hydro-distilled essential oil (EsO) from the aerial parts of Cordia dichotoma fruits, stems, seeds and leaves via gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry. Approximately 33 volatile components were detected throughout the study. Almost 27 and 23 compounds (comprising 64.83% and 31.55%, respectively, of the total components) were detected in the fruits and stems, whereas 25 compounds (57.12% of the total components) were detected in the seeds, and 25 compounds (52.48% of the total components) were found in the leaves. The main components of the fruit oil were Nonanal (5.77%), Oleic acid (4.30%), β-Damascenone (4.12%), 3, 4-Dehydro-β-ionone (4.06%), Methyl jasmonate (3.32%), Sabinene (3.31%), Phytol (3.22%) and Vitispirane (3.11%). From stem oil, the major components were Nonanal (6.52%), Nonadecane (3.22%) and 2, 3-Octanedione (2.16%). Whereas, the major components of the seed oils were Nonanal (12.14%), Oleic acid (5.13%), Dihydroactindiolide (3.35%), 2-Methoxy-4-vinylphenol (3.18%), Dodecanoic acid (3.16%) and Methyl jasmonate (3.11%). Similarly, the major components of the leaf oils were 2, 4-di-t-Butylphenol (10.25%), 3-Methylnonane (4.73%), 2-Undecanol (4.64%), 3, 4-Dehydro-β-ionone (3.52%) and Nonanal (3.16%). These EsO were used for antibacterial activity against two bacteria i.e. E. coli (G-ve) and the S. aureus (G+ve) by disc diffusion method to determine the MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) and MBC (maximum bactericidal concentration). However, among the four parts of C. dichotoma, fruit and seed EsO were highly effective against E. coli (MIC and MBC were 125 μg/mL, 1000 μg/mL respectively) compared to S. aureus (MICs of 250 and 500 μg/mL with an MBC of 1000 μg/mL) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an optimal lane-changing and control strategy to solve the collision avoidance of intelligent vehicles in highway driving. A quintic polynomial lane-changing trajectory model is established in the Frenet frame, and the trajectory planning problem is transformed into the optimisation problem of lane-changing target coordinates. To consider the multiple environmental factors on vehicle lane-changing, the feasible region of the lane-changing target point was generated based on the lateral acceleration limitation and the safe distance constraints. The performance evaluation indexes were established, considering efficiency, comfort, lateral slip, and lane offset. The multi-objective optimisation problem is solved in the feasible region, and the optimisation results were applied to the collision detection process. In addition, considering the nonlinear characteristics of tire force caused by sudden lateral movements of vehicles at high-speed, a vehicle dynamics model based on the Magic Formula is established, and Model Predictive Control is applied to track the expected trajectory. Simulation results show that this strategy can plan suitable lane-changing trajectories in high-speed working conditions and achieve vehicle collision avoidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brand collaboration requirement (BCR) evaluation is a key premise for core manufacturing enterprises to lead the collaborative brand construction of a large-scale manufacturing industry value chain (LSMIVC). Because brand collaboration (BC) in LSMIVC requires interaction with other businesses, BCRs are interactional and decision-makers come from multiple groups. However, existing requirement evaluation approaches rarely consider the interactional nature of requirements and the multiple groups nature of decision makers, producing unstable, easy-to-fail, and inaccurate results. Therefore, this study presents a multi-group decision-making approach based on a decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory and analytic network process (DEMATEL-ANP). This approach integrates the assessment information of BCRs from group decision-makers and prevents unstable and easily invalid assessment results owing to an incomplete decision-maker team. Additionally, DEMATEL-ANP was used to rank the interaction BCRs, which improved the accuracy and effectiveness of the requirement evaluation. Finally, the developed approach and model were tested against the air-conditioning industry value chain. The case study shows that the proposed method can determine requirement ranking. Comparative tests show that the proposed approach is effective and superior, and is more consistent with real-world BC situations. Therefore, the proposed approach provides a direction and theoretical basis for core manufacturing enterprises to implement BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants are a priceless and vital resource that give us medicine, food, fibre, and all other necessities. The evergreen shrub, Rauwolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz., also known as Indian snakeroot, sarpagandha is a member of the Apocynaceae family. Rauwolfia serpentina has fewer negative effects and an abundance of phytochemicals in the roots and leaves of the plant, it shows a wide range of therapeutic activity. With the goal of developing a densitometric high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method, in order to quantify Yohimbine hydrochloride in Rauwolfia roots, it will help to insure the collection and harvesting time. The five distinct brands of market Rauwolfia root samples are compared with in-house samples prepared in the laboratory. The silica gel 60 F254 high-performance thin-layer chromatography plates were used with toluene, Toluene : Ethyl acetate : Diethylamine (7:1.5:1.5 v/v/v) as a mobile phase. The validation parameters for the developed method were carried out as per the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guideline Q2 (R1). The calibration curve was found to be linear over a range of 1-7 μg/spot for yohimbine. The method involves densitometric detection at 280 nm. The relative standard deviations (RSD) for precision were found to be lower than 2% for both analytes. Percent recoveries for accuracy were performed and found to be 98.5-99.98% for yohimbine, The LOD and LOQ for Yohimbine were 0.08 μg/ml and 0.24 μg/ml, respectively. Validation parameters were carried out as per International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guideline Q2 (R1). The Rf value of 0.64 have been observed for Yohimbine. This HPTLC densitometric method is highly suitable for the analysis of Yohimbine present in the dosage of marketed herbal products of sarpagandha root without any interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite Bangladesh being the world's fifth-largest aquaculture producer, ensuring quality fish supply and food safety is a major challenge. Illegal practices and the presence of harmful microorganisms consistently compromise the integrity of food items throughout the value chain. To address this, a study was conducted in Bangladesh aimed to estimate consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for safer Tilapia, Pangasius, and Rohu fish using an experimental auction method. Results revealed that consumers' average willingness to pay was 29%, 10%, and 21% more for safer Tilapia, Pangasius, and Rohu, respectively, compared to less safe options despite being unaware of specific safety attributes or production practices. After getting information about the aquaculture practices used in fish production, bacterial pathogens, antibiotic levels, and heavy metal content, participants expressed their willingness to pay a higher premium of 52% for safer Tilapia, 39% for safer Pangasius, and 34% for safer Rohu fish. This dynamic illustrates that when consumers possess comprehensive product safety information, their willingness to pay becomes more rational and sensitive to minimize health risks. This WTP is more for safer fish, underscoring the critical role of safety certificates and labeling in meeting the needs of an increasingly health-conscious population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous chickens reared in South and East Asian region have been assessed for their carcass and meat quality traits over the past years. This review provides the overview of findings on the carcass and meat quality traits of indigenous chickens. Ancestry analysis revealed that these chickens have evolved from the Red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus). These indigenous breeds/ecotypes are named based on their unique phenotypic characteristics. In most Asian countries, indigenous chicken populations are sustained due to the cross-breeding programmes between different lines of local and exotic breeds. The production systems for these chicken breeds/ecotypes are mainly semi-intensive of the backyard and free-range systems. The carcass and meat quality parameters of these chickens are primarily influenced by genotype, age, body weight, feed, and several other environmental conditions. At present, consumer preference for indigenous chicken meat has increased due to its superior quality compared to broiler meat, particularly in terms of unique taste, texture, and nutritional value. Indigenous chicken meat exhibits favourable fatty acid profiles including n-3 and n-6 fatty acids, and desirable physiochemical and sensory attributes compared to commercial broiler meat. However, further research is needed to explore the carcass and meat quality parameters, and histological traits of the meat from different indigenous chicken breeds/ecotypes in the South and East Asian regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant pathogenic nematodes pose a significant threat to banana production, causing symptoms such as root lesions, stunted growth, and reduced yield. A comprehensive study in Bangladesh's Sylhet district aimed to assess nematode infestations in banana fields, involving interviews with farmers, soil sample collection, and microscopic examination. Results revealed the presence of multiple nematode species, with Helicotylenchus spp. being the most abundant. PCR analysis confirmed R. similis infestation in 35% of fields, highlighting its prevalence. Monoculture practices were observed among farmers, exacerbating nematode infestation risks. Limited communication between farmers and agricultural offices contributes to unawareness of nematode infestations. Country-wide studies and improved communication are crucial for implementing effective nematode mitigation strategies and safeguarding banana yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competing risks data frequently appear in real-world operations like quality inspections, survival analysis, reliability tests, and clinical trials. From the quality point of view, relative risk rate can be considered an interesting quality indicator in analyzing the competing risks data for statistical process monitoring purposes. The relative risk rate measures the proportion of failures caused by the primary risk among a set of competing risks. This paper introduces two Shewhart-type control charts for monitoring the relative risk rate when the lifetimes of competing risks are independent Weibull random variables. The former chart is constructed based on the maximum likelihood estimation method, while the latter is developed based on the Bayesian approach. The proposed control charts can be applied in Phase II. The calculation of the Bayesian control charts and the evaluation of both process monitoring techniques have been done based on Monte Carlo simulations. The performance of the proposed control charts has been examined based on the average run length metric. The illustrative example is also discussed in detail to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish consumption in developing countries like Bangladesh is increasing with increasing aquaculture production; however, consumers are becoming more aware and concerned about food quality issues. This study investigates consumer preferences and willingness to pay for farmed fish quality attributes in Bangladesh using logit and hedonic price models, respectively. A total of 800 consumers were interviewed about four farmed fish species: pangasius, tilapia, rui and catla using a semi-structured questionnaire. The results showed that catla belongs to the higher price segment, whereas pangasius and tilapia belong to the lower price segment. The results also indicate that price, availability, affordability, safety, nutritional characteristics and socioeconomic characteristics like consumer age, years of schooling, number of kids and household members are significant determinants of consumer preferences. The results furthermore confirmed that consumers pay a price premium for larger fish, its firm and elastic texture, transparent eyes and taste, whereas purchasing a higher quantity, whole fish, fish with odor or swollen abdomen and comparatively more bones reduce the price of farmed fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic plants have been shown to improve performance when included in bird diets at an early stage, particularly when used to provide a small portion of the total protein needed. Azolla (Azolla pinnata) is a widely distributed heterosporous aquatic fern. Azolla resembles other common ferns, although it is green in colour and appears more like duckweed or mosses when it is floating freely on the water's surface. It can be used as a protein source in chicken and animal feed. Azolla has a wide range of pharmacological properties and can be used as a food source as well as an antioxidant, immunological booster, hepatoprotector, phytoremediator and bioremediator. B12, beta-carotene and vitamin A are among the vitamins, biopolymers, minerals, and amino acids found in azolla. Carotene and trace minerals are abundant in azolla. It seems to be a medication that protects the liver from hepatotoxic chemicals. Its decoction (concentrated plant liquor) includes properties that are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic, making it a desirable treatment and preventive option for good hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, the feed conversion ratio, average performance, performance index, egg weight, egg production, egg shape index, and yolk colour of laying ducks fed azolla-based diets were all improved. The goal of this exploratory study was to learn more about the health benefits of azolla as well as how Azolla pinnata should be recognised by researchers, vets, and poultry nutritionists in order to increase chicken productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bread wheat is one of the key food grains in Ethiopia. However, its production and productivity are affected by stripe rust. The objective of this study was to investigate and develop integrated management options for stripe rust using varieties and fungicide application frequency in the study area. A field experiment was conducted at Enarj Enawuga district in the Metaya Kebele farmer training center during the 2022 main cropping season. There were sixteen total treatment combinations [four bread wheat varieties (Ogolcho, Lemu, Hidase, and Local as check), and four Tilt 250 EC fungicide application frequencies (nil, 1, 2, and 3 times)]. The design of the experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with factorial arrangements within three replications. Both disease and yield-related data were collected and analyzed using SAS 9.4 software. The disease and yield parameters showed a significant (p < 0.01) difference, and all treated plots had higher yield and lower disease severity than untreated plots. On the untreated plots, the final mean stripe rust severity was 18.53%, 22.57%, 36.73%, and 57.63% on Ogolcho, Lemu, Hidase, and local varieties, respectively. The maximum disease control was recorded from Ogolcho variety (61.31%) with a three-time application of Tilt 250EC. Grain yield and thousand kernel weight increment were obtained at 79.72% and 17.37% from Ogolcho, 100% and 23.44% from Lemu, 94.85% and 34.54% from Hidase, and 102.85% and 49.56% from local varieties treated by three times of Tilt 250EC, respectively. A higher yield reduction and AUDPC (114 DAS) were recorded from untreated plots of local (50.70%, 2,031.49% days−1), and Hidase (48.68%, 1,020.6% days−1) varieties, receptively. The 15-day interval application frequency of Propiconazole increased the grain yield of all tested varieties and reduced stripe rust severity. The Ogolcho variety treated three times yielded the maximum net benefit (216,750 Birr/ha) with an accepted marginal rate of return (22,810%). Therefore, based on the results obtained, producers use the Ogolcho variety with three-time application of propiconazole fungicide for optimum wheat production and could be recommended to manage stripe rust in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural finance plays a pivotal role in facilitating the modernization and commercialization of farming practices and bolstering global food security. However, the provision of sustainable financial services in remote regions poses a significant challenge within the developing and underdeveloped countries. Consequently, farmers often grapple with inadequate access to formal credit sources and essential productive assets due to diverse constraints. Although, several studies have investigated constraints to agriculture finance; the literature is divergent and a holistic framework of constraints to agriculture finance is missing. Therefore, this research explores the constraints to agriculture finance in 31 developing and underdeveloped countries using systematic review approach, and synthesizes a holistic framework of the constraints using Qualitative Evidence Synthesis (QES) method that can be used as dependable framework for conceptualization and policy formation. Moreover, it describes the interplay and mutual reinforcement between the challenges faced by different stakeholders to elaborate how they influence each other in complex ways. Additionally, this study suggests a collective and multi-faceted approach for overcoming barriers to agricultural financing, and highlights the limitations and unintended consequences of agricultural credit and its implications for agricultural sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has shown that Norwegian aquaculture did not report being much affected by COVID-19 but had a strong response to the pandemic regarding cost reductions, market development, and business network development. In this study, we take a step further and investigate if COVID-19 affectedness and responsiveness were consistent across the aquaculture industry's value chain. Also, we investigate if aquaculture industry involvement explains how firms were affected by and responded to the pandemic. Reexamining survey data from Norway shows that the firms, independent of value chain position or industry involvement, were not hit particularly hard by COVID-19 compared to firms in the manufacturing industry as a reference group. In addition, we show that the response to the pandemic in terms of cost reductions, market development, and business network development was strong across the value chain – chiefly among firms involved in producing or selling sea products and providing equipment and consulting services – compared to firms in the manufacturing industry. Finally, the response to the pandemic was consistently strong, independent of industry involvement. We conclude that aquaculture firms, across the value chain and independent of industry involvement, had a strong positive response to COVID-19, albeit not much affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine STC-1's structure, function, and differential expression in large and miniature pigs. We cloned the Hezuo pig's coding sequence, compared its homology, and used bioinformatics to assess the structure. RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to detect the expression in ten tissues of Hezuo pig and Landrace pig. The results showed that Hezuo pig was most closely related to Capra hircus and most distantly related to Danio rerio. The protein STC-1 has a signal peptide and its secondary structure is dominated by the alpha helix. The mRNA expression in the spleen, duodenum, jejunum, and stomach of Hezuo pigs was higher than that of Landrace pigs. And except for heart and duodenum, expression of the protein in Hezuo pig was higher than in another. In conclusion, STC-1 is highly conserved among different breeds of pigs, and the expression and distribution of its mRNA and protein are different in large and miniature pigs. This work can lay the foundation for future study into the mechanism of action of STC-1 in Hezuo pigs and the enhancement of breeding in miniature pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The success of assisted reproduction relies on functional competence of frozen-thawed semen. Heat stress affects protein folding leading to aggregation of mis-folded proteins. Hence, a total of 384 (32 ejaculates/bull/season) ejaculates from six matured Gir bulls were used to evaluate physico-morphological parameters, the expression of HSPs (70 and 90) and fertility of frozen-thawed semen. The mean percent individual motility, viability and membrane integrity were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in winter compared to summer. Out of 1200 Gir cows inseminated, 626 confirmed pregnant and the mean conception rate of winter (55.04 ± 0.35) was significantly (p < 0.001) higher than summer (49.33 ± 0.32). A significant (p < 0.01) difference in concentration of HSP70 (ng/mg of protein) but not HSP90was observed between the two seasons. The HSP70 expression in pre-freeze semen of Gir bulls had significant positive correlation with motility (p < 0.01, r = 0.463), viability (p < 0.01, r = 0.565), acrosome integrity (p < 0.05, r = 0.330) and conception rate (p < 0.01, r = 0.431). In conclusion, the season influences physico-morphological parameters and expression of HSP70 but not HSP90 in Gir bull semen. The HSP70 expression is positively correlated with motility, viability, acrosome integrity and fertility of semen. The semen expression of HSP70 may be utilized as biomarker for thermo-tolerance, semen quality and fertilizing capacity of Gir bull semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly Automated Driving (HAD) systems implement new features to improve the performance, safety and comfort of partially or fully automated vehicles. The identification of safety parameters by means of complex systems and the driving environment is a fundamental aspect that require great attention. Therefore, much research has been conducted in the field of collision detection in the development of automated vehicles. However, the development of HAD systems faces the challenge of ensuring zero accidents. For this reason, collision detection in the safety-related concept phase as hazard identification is one of the key research points in HAD system. In this paper, a systematic approach to detect potential collisions for scenario-based hazard analysis of HAD systems is presented by using Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) as a Machine Learning (ML) technique. Moreover, the proposed approach assists in reducing the number of observed scenarios for hazard analysis and risk assessment. Additionally, two simulation-based scenario datasets are examined in the ML model to identify potential hazard scenarios. The results of this study show that MLP can support to detect the collision at safety-related concept phase. Furthermore, this paper contributes to providing arguments and evidence for ML techniques in HAD systems safety by selecting relevant use cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of the prevalence of Subclinical Mastitis (SCM) in dairy farms is essential to evaluate the health status of mammary gland. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of SCM in dualpurpose livestock systems in Arauca, Colombia, through the analysis the values found on-farm diagnostic California Mastitis Test (CMT) and Electric Conductivity (EC) test. Milk samples were taken from the individual mammary quarters of 481 cows. The cow level prevalence, per affected individual mammary quarters prevalence and the mammary quarter level prevalence were determined according to the values obtained for each test using two methods of analysis. An ANOVA was performed to determine the difference between prevalences. Cohen's kappa coefficient was used for intertest agreement, and an analysis of sensitivity and specificity. The cow level prevalence was similar between the tests (CMT = 31.4%; EC = 29.7%). The quarter-level prevalence was lower with EC (11.4% vs 14.3%) (p < 0.05). The agreement test between CMT (0) and EC ranged between 0.20 and 0.25. Despite the low agreement found between the tests, they can be useful in determining the health status of the mammary gland in the dual-purpose livestock systems of the Colombian Orinoquia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CatSper1 and TNP2 genes are known to affect semen quality and fertility parameters, including sperm motility and maturation. However, studies are yet to examine the genes in indigenous and crossbred cattle in Bangladesh. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the genetic variants of CatSper1 and TNP2 in indigenous and crossbred cattle in Bangladesh. Blood samples were collected from 130 indigenous and 70 crossbred (Holstein Friesian × indigenous) cattle. Nucleotide variation was evaluated by PCR-RFLP and sequencing. The results of the study showed that the indigenous cattle possessed only TT genotype (1.0), whereas the crossbreds possessed both TT (0.91) and CT (0.09) genotypes, which was validated by gene sequencing. Additionally, the CatSper1 was conserved in both the indigenous and crossbred cattle, suggesting good semen quality and fertility. However, the TNP2 was conserved in the indigenous breeds and mostly conserved in the crossbreds. The findings of this study reveal the diversity of CatSper1 and TNP2 genes in indigenous and crossbred cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geopolymers are comparatively new generation of construction materials made from industrial by-products and supplemental cementitious materials (SCM) with high silica and alumina content. Currently, the demand for SCM has enlarged significantly based on global climate change action plans, so its use through the geopolymerisation process has attracted the attention of researchers from all over the world. This article focuses on the main mechanisms of construction and demolition (C&D) waste on the resulting physical, mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer concrete (GPC) on fresh and hardened state. This article deals with the partial substitution of coarse aggregates (CA) by C&D waste on GPC. The partial replacement of CA was carried out in five proportions, that is, 0%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40%, and every sample was analysed to determine the slump cone, the compressive strength, flexural strength and splitting tensile strength for 7 and 28 d. It is observed that the percentage variation of C&D waste influences the hardening properties of GPC. The analysis of Finite element (FE) is taken by using FE software ANSYS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is very difficult to keep track of employee attendance manually. In addition to the length of time that the registration process takes, there are still chances that some errors may occur. It's easy to put an end to errors, save time and eliminate hassles with a dedicated attendance recording app that automates the process. With these tools, you can track employee entry and exit processes, keep a record of hours worked, manage employee overtime, half-offs, days off, and much more. In this research paper, a gate has been proposed through which employees' departure and attendance are calculated. Prevent any unwanted person from entering at the same time, a unit can be added through which individuals are sterilized for the Prevention of viruses. The proposed system showed high efficiency in recording the attendance and departure of employees and preventing any unwanted person from entering. The raspberry pi 4 model/ 8GB is used and Practical tests were conducted and applied to the system of employees in one of the educational institutions and proved highly efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the era of observed climatic changes that contribute to the emergence of soil moisture deficiency, effective ways to retain and rationally manage water are being sought. One of the ways to make water available during periods without rain is the use of a superabsorbent. The aim of the study was to identify the response of two soybean cultivars (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) to different doses of a superabsorbent polymer (SAP). The effect of the SAP on seed yields, selected elements of the yield structure and the chemical composition of seeds were evaluated. The study was carried out during 2016–2018, based on a two-factor field experiment, in a split-plot design, where the dose of SAP (0, 20, 30 kgha−1) and legume cultivar (Aldana, Merlin) were the factors. The results of the research showed that SAP application significantly increased the yield of soybean, but did not affect the quantitative traits and chemical composition of seeds. Genetic factors differentiated the seed yields and chemical composition of the soybeans. A significantly higher yield was obtained for the Merlin cultivar compared to Aldana (by 31.0% on average). The Merlin cultivar accumulated more total protein in seeds, but contained significantly less crude ash and potassium compared to Aldana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein is always a central part of the biology of the organism, it is essential to be familiar with the nature of proteins' molecular level communications, in which the prediction of Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) plays the main role. This article proposes a new probabilistic feature extraction technique, termed Centroid-based feature (CF) abbreviated as CF-PPI, to generate a new feature from protein sequence, and then the random forest is used as a classifier to predict PPIs. CF-PPI considers the residual energy of the protein bond in the scenario to detect the interaction between proteins and resolve the protein's length variation issue using probabilistic feature vectors. The PPI datasets which are used in this article are S. cerevisae, H. pylori, and Human, which achieved the average accuracy of 96.25%, 97.68%, and 97.69% respectively using the CF-PPI and Random Forest as a classifier and the comparison result proved superior to other existing results. The AUC score is also evaluated, additionally, a blind test is performed using five other species' datasets which are independent of the training set with the same proposed feature approach. The experimental results prove that the CF-PPI is very promising and beneficial for looming proteomics research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supply chain management of the fishing industry has become increasingly important as globalization has increased competition. It is complicated due to the involvement of heterogeneous stakeholders and the establishment of an unorganized market structure. This study gave a holistic insight into the gaps in existing literature for measuring supply chain performance emphasizing the need to value multidimensional aspects, such as information sharing, commitment, efficiency, effectiveness, quality, reliability, flexibility, and capability in the inland fishing industry. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze responses from 787 stakeholders randomly selected from 11 districts through a structured in-person interview covering 46 fish markets. The study revealed that information sharing and commitment both positively influenced the supply chain performance. Information sharing had a positive significant relationship with all mediators. In contrast, a positive significant relationship was found between the commitment, efficiency, effectiveness, quality, and reliability. Among the mediators, efficiency, effectiveness, and quality positively affected the supply-chain performance. Considering the finding of this study the stakeholders can outline, promote, and implement policies for the improved supply chain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creeping thistle, Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop, is one of the most common weeds in temperate climates. Frequently classified as an invasive species, it is the cause of massive herbicide and tillage use. Especially in organic systems, the plant is hard to manage. Little is known about creeping thistle being entirely edible and having diverse medicinal properties. Additionally, it has potential to be used as food preservative and provides essential ecosystem services. This systematic literature review provides evidence of creeping thistle uses from 56 peer-reviewed journals and 37 popular media references. It discusses potential uses and phytochemical properties of specific plant parts. Findings identify the stem as the most promising part for food use. Creeping thistle has elevated flavonoid (flower) and inulin (root) contents, with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic properties respectively. The discussion contrasts the potential of creeping thistle of becoming a multi-purpose crop with its classification as a noxious weed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental factors, such as sleep restriction, contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by causing hyperinsulinemia, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and oligo- or anovulation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of circadian rhythm disruption on reproductive and metabolic functions and investigate the potential therapeutic benefits of MitoQ10 and hot tub therapy (HTT). Sixty female rats were divided into six groups: control, MitoQ10, HTT, and three groups with PCOS induced by continuous light exposure(L/L). The reproductive, endocrine, and structural manifestations ofL/L-induced PCOS were confirmed by serum biochemical measurements, ultrasound evaluation of ovarian size, and vaginal smear examination at week 14. Subsequently, the rats were divided into the L/L (untreated), L/L+MitoQ10-treated, andL/L+HTT-treated groups. At the end of week 22, all rats were sacrificed. Treatmentwith MitoQ10 or HTT partially reversed the reproductive, endocrine, and structural features of PCOS, leading to a decreased amplitude of isolated uterine contractions, ovarian cystic changes and size, and endometrial thickness. Furthermore, both interventions improved the elevated serum levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), kisspeptin, Fibulin-1, A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 19 (ADAMTS-19), lipid profile, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), oxidative stress markers, androgen receptors (AR) and their transcription target genes, FKBP52 immunostaining in ovarian tissues, and uterine estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α) and PRimmunostaining. In conclusion, MitoQ10 supplementation and HTT demonstrated the potential for ameliorating metabolic, reproductive, and structural perturbations associated with PCOS induced by circadian rhythm disruption. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic role for these interventions in managing PCOS in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adapted from the acceptance sampling field, the double sampling monitoring schemes implement a two-stage strategy to decide whether the process being monitored is in-control or out-of-control. That is, a master sample is split into two separate subgroup samples, with the first subgroup sample used in the first stage and, depending on which type of double sampling method is used, either only the second or the combined first and second, subgroup sample(s) are used in the second stage. This strategy has been proven to effectively decrease the sampling effort and, at the same time, to decrease the time to detect potential out-of-control situations. For these reasons, it has received some attention in the statistical process monitoring (SPM) literature and, in this review paper, all 92 existing publications on the basic double sampling monitoring schemes and other different schemes that are integrated with the basic double sampling schemes are reviewed. The double sampling schemes are categorized and summarized so that any research gaps in the SPM literature can easily be identified. Finally, concluding remarks and some directions for future research ideas are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lateral flow devices (LFDs) are straightforward scientific tools that have made substantial advances in recent years. They have been used in many fields including the meat industry to detect disease markers, determine meat freshness or meat species determination. They are, therefore, significant in the research of meat adulteration by mixed animal species, because food component authenticity is a serious concern encompassing health, economic, legal, and religious issues. Pork adulteration is one of the most crucial issues in the global meat industry. In this review, we discuss the various types of LFDs and recent research on the development of LFDs as an authenticity tool for detecting pig additives in meat-based products, and how regulatory authorities could adopt LFDs for their workflows. Despite the benefits of rapidity, simplicity, low cost, high sensitivity, and specificity, researchers face challenges when using LFD as a final confirmation test. Future directions are suggested for globalising the use of LFD as a halal authentication method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many factors influence the utilization of reproductive healthcare services in Kenya. Despite the effort by the government and other stakeholders to improve access and utilization of these services, there remains a major challenge in reaching out to marginalized segments of society. The study aims to examine the factors affecting the utilization of modern contraceptives by homeless women in Nairobi, Kenya, and draw policy recommendations based on the findings. The study utilized the logit model to analyze determinants of contraceptive utilization by homeless women in Nairobi using primary data collected from 196 households within Nairobi. The number of children per woman, age at first birth, living with a partner, drug abuse by the respondent, drug abuse by respondents' partner, poverty, child planning, health facility delivery, neonatal death incidence, knowledge of male sterilization, never attending school, primary school attendance, secondary school attendance, operating of small business and contraceptive spending significantly affect the utilization of modern contraceptives by homeless women in Nairobi, Kenya. The majority of homeless women in Nairobi utilized injectibles (26.63%) and implants (24.07%) as a form of contraception. The government should therefore provide a contraceptive mix that incorporates these forms of contraception to ensure maximum utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven flavonoids including one new flavonol glycoside, quercetin-3-O-(2-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-D-glucuronopyranosyl methyl ester (1), were isolated for the first time from the fruits of Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels (Phyllanthaceae). Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic data. The known flavonoids, quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucuronide methyl ester (3), quercetin-3-O-(2''-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-6''-O-α-L-rhamno pyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), myricetin (9), and 6-methoxy-naringenin (11) were isolated for the first time from the genus Phyllanthus. Flavonoids 4, 6 and 9 (IC50 = 6.01, 6.32, and 7.84 μM, respectively) showed stronger α-glucosidase inhibitory activities than the positive control, acarbose (IC50 = 306.45 μM). The fruits of P. acidus might be further developed as an anti-diabetic food supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aquaculture, drugs are often abused to accomplish disease control without considering the negative effects on fish health. This study aimed at elucidating the pernicious effects of in-feed antiparasitic drug emamectin benzoate (EB) abuse on the haemato-biochemistry and erythro-morphometry of healthy Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus. The fish were fed EB at 50 μg (1×) and 150 μg/kg biomass/d (3×) for 14 d as against the recommended 7 d and periodically assessed the blood parameters. A significant dose- and time-dependent reduction in feed intake, survival, total erythrocytes (TEC), monocytes (MC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Ht) and mean corpuscular Hb concentration were noted. The total leukocytes (TLC), thrombocytes (TC), lymphocytes (LC) and neutrophils (NC) markedly augmented. The EB-dosing altered the fish physiology by enhancing the glucose, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and creatinine and reducing the calcium, chloride and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) levels dose-dependently. The fish recovered within 4 weeks in the 1× group post-dosing but persevered in the overdosed group. The erythro-cellular and nuclear dimensions were reduced with the increase in dose and normalized after the cessation of dosing, except for nuclear volume. The erythro-morphological alterations were more prominent in the overdosed group. The results implied the pernicious effect of oral EB medication on the biological responses of fish if abused. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-medical use of prescription opioids (NUPO) is an increasing public health concern in Australia and New Zealand. In response to a lack of research on NUPO in this setting, we investigated the associations between NUPO, mental illnesses, and other substance use, using data from the 2019 Global Drug Survey (GDS). Strategies to reduce NUPO-related harm were also discussed. Socio-demographic characteristics, mental illnesses, NUPO, and other substance use among 2019 GDS respondents were examined. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with past year NUPO. Data from 2752 Australian and New Zealand respondents who used drugs were analysed. Pastyear use of heroin, benzodiazepines, cannabis (containing THC), and ecstasy were associated with a greater odds of NUPO, while bipolar disorder managed with medications was associated with a lower odds of NUPO. All other mental illnesses, including co-morbid mental illnesses, were not associated with NUPO after adjusting for potential confounders. Of respondents who reported NUPO and answered secondary questions, 38.8% obtained opioids from a friend or family member. This study provides a unique understanding of potential risk factors for NUPO among people who report mental illness and drug use in Australia and New Zealand, and establishes a basis for future research that is aimed at reducing NUPO-related harm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant productivity is impacted by drought stress, which adversely affects their morphological and physiological processes. In response, the plant activates its defense mechanisms, but severe drought impairs these responses. In this review, the morphological aspects of water deficit on plants were examined, including reduced germination, rooting, shoot development, and leaf growth, which ultimately lead to quantitative and qualitative yield losses. In addition, physiological aspects of drought were studied, including photosynthesis, chlorophyll content, respiration rate, stomata closure, water, and nutrients relations, and their efficiency. We also presented various agronomic and non-agronomic strategies to combat this global problem as part of the management approach. Breeding using modern methods such as marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and targeted gene editing was proposed as a promising tool to develop more tolerant crop varieties. In addition, different agronomic methods (plant density, sowing date, crop rotation, conservation tillage, and use of biochar) were discussed. Furthermore, various strategies for improving drought tolerance of crops using nutrient management (salicylic acid, sulfate zinc, chemical fertilizers, and humic acid) were outlined. Mycorrhizae and growth-promoting bacteria were also discussed as effective approaches to achieving drought tolerance in crops. Overall, we concluded that developing drought-tolerant crops requires the use of multiple approaches, including agronomic and non-agronomic techniques and advanced breeding tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a piezoelectric polymer for the potential massive production of smart textiles, facing the difficulty of synergetic improving its fiber strength and softness. Strengthening of flexible PVDF fibers via drawing incurs the reduction of fiber softness. Here, inspired by the cotton fibers, this study aimed to construct a strong and soft PVDF fiber by regulating its cross-sectional shape and longitudinal convolution. Mechanism of increasing softness by longitudinal spiral twisting was conducted during the strengthening of PVDF fibers with favorable cross-sectional shapes. Then circular, flat and kidney shaped PVDF fibers were prepared to conduct drawing and twisting under different parameters. The influences of cross-sectional shapes and convolutions on PVDF fiber properties were examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM), X ray diffraction (XRD), universal stretch meter and AFM. Results indicated that all the fibers became strong but rigid with increased drawing ratios, mainly due to their corresponding attenuation to increase fiber inner crystallization and surface smoothness. In specialty, the circular fiber had a higher crystallization increase ratio (106.3%) than that of kidney (74.7%) and flat (73.1%) fibers. Surprisingly, all drawn fibers became flexible and further strengthened after tensile twisting within 400 T/m. Overall the optimum strong and flexible fibers were obtained by 400 T/m tensile twisting of the 2 times drawn flat PVDF fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new nor-ent-kaurene diterpene and ten other compounds were isolated from Annona vepretorum stems, including four kaurene diterpenes, three alkamides, one sesquiterpene and two steroids. Their chemical structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods, including 1D-, 2D-NMR, and HRESIMS. The absolute configuration of compounds 1, 5, 8, 9 and 10 was confirmed by CD experiments. Compounds 1–5 and 8–10 were evaluated for cytotoxic activity using (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) MTT method, against three human carcinoma cell lines: human colon (HCT-116), glioblastoma (SF295) and prostate (PC3). However, all isolated compounds exhibited low cytotoxic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea farming communities in Laos are faced with COVID-19 impacts, while simultaneously having difficulties in access to Fairtrade. This paper examines community issues on how tea farmers perceived Fairtrade as an economic recovery from COVID-19. Taking a case study from five tea farming communities in the Phongsali district of Laos, this paper reveals pivotal role Fairtrade plays in supporting tea farmers' community development to enhance their income and livelihoods. It suggests communities' mixed perceptions of Fairtrade in contributing to economic recovery under the COVID-19 impacts over the long term. We argue that Fairtrade can be deployed as an ad-hoc economic recovery measure in the face of the COVID-19 impacts to sustain tea farmers' trading, income, food security, and community development in Phongsali. This paper suggests how Fairtrade would serve as a safety net for enhancing local community development while the COVID-19 pandemic remains a huge challenge to local economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intensive pond aquaculture production is increasing and playing a major role in global aquaculture production, especially in developing countries. Empirical evidence shows that the access to and exchange of fresh water in tilapia pond aquaculture is important for making pond production ecologically more sound, efficient and productive. This study investigates productivity and efficiency differences between farms with access to open water resources and farms without access using data obtained from 311 interviews with tilapia farmers in Bangladesh. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and meta-frontier DEA have been employed to estimate productivity and efficiency differences between the groups. Results show that farms located in areas with access to open water resources are significantly more efficient, but a bit surprisingly less productive than farms located in areas with deficit access to water resources. Furthermore, output could be increased by 29% and 40% without increasing input in areas with good access and limited access to water, respectively. Thus, promoting intensive aquaculture pond production in areas with access to water resources should focus on how to increase productivity, while areas with limited access should focus on optimal use of input in order to improve water quality and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangladesh, one of the world's poorest countries, has experienced a dramatic decline in fertility since 1985, with a decline in the total fertility rate from 5.5–2.1. International researchers have debated the reasons for this rapid decline, with some studies attributing it primarily to family planning programmes and others pointing at the simultaneous increase in the education of women and other socioeconomic factors. Using data from seven-rounds of the Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey (BDHS), we comprehensively review fertility trends by reconstructing cohort and period fertility indicators by educational attainment. Multilevel regression shows a robust negative association between fertility and educational attainment at the individual and community levels. Pathway's analysis reveals that female education has a significant effect on declining fertility desires dominating all other effects. Increased women's education and the associated diffusion of smaller desired family size might be the primary factor driving the impressive fertility decline in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reciprocal crosses of Fayoumi with Koekoek, Sasso, and White Leghorn chickens and the purebreds were evaluated for growth and feed efficiency traits. Birds were weighed individually at hatch and every four weeks to 20 weeks, and body weight gain was the difference between consecutive records. Feed conversion ratio was the ratio of feed consumed to weight gained by the birds. Results revealed significant differences among the genotypes in those traits. Sasso outperformed all other genotypes throughout the study period. Reciprocal crosses of Fayoumi and Sasso performed better than the remaining seven genotypes, with Koekoek and reciprocals of Fayoumi and Koekoek showing intermediate performance, but Fayoumi and White Leghorn and reciprocals involving them performed the least. In most instances, reciprocals of Fayoumi with Koekoek and White Leghorn outperformed both of their parents. Therefore, these genotypes could be used in any crossbreeding system to exploit the heterotic effects that existed in them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle Miocene (Serravallian; upper Badenian–lower Sarmatian) strata recovered in 10 cored boreholes (83 samples) from Bad Deutsch-Altenburg, Vienna Basin, Austria, were analysed palynologically for the first time. The strata belong to the Rabensburg Formation of the Baden Group. The lateral distribution of the boreholes in reference to a Mesozoic ridge makes this area interesting for studying various aspects such as distribution of deposits, stratigraphy and palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. A diverse and well-preserved in situ dinoflagellate cyst association has been identified. Middle Miocene age-diagnostic species including Cannosphaeropsis passio, Cerebrocysta poulsenii, Habibacysta tectata, Labyrinthodinium truncatum, Operculodinium? borgerholtense and Unipontidinium aquaeductum are recorded. Their occurrences allow correlation with dinoflagellate cyst biozonations on a regional scale. Based on the identified dinoflagellate cysts and by correlation with calcareous nannoplankton and ostracods, from the same set of samples, a Serravallian age – corresponding to a late Badenian and early Sarmatian age (regional Paratethys stages) – is confirmed. Reworked (Cretaceous and Paleogene) dinoflagellate cyst assemblages, also well preserved, were recorded abundantly from boreholes HA 521 and HA 573 (south-west of the Mesozoic ridge). In accordance with ostracods, the Badenian–Sarmatian boundary can be traced in the upper part of borehole HA 66 based on an abrupt change in the dinoflagellate cyst assemblages. The upper Badenian strata were deposited in a coastal to inner shelf environment with terrigenous (siliceous sand and clay) and carbonate sediments. The recorded dinoflagellate cysts reflect marine, tropical to warm-temperate climatic conditions. The composition of the recorded dinoflagellate cyst assemblages is very close to that of the Middle Miocene assemblages of the Mediterranean, indicating water exchanges between the Central Paratethys and the Mediterranean during the late Badenian (early Serravallian). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]