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This study examines the sliding wear behavior of aluminium 7075 composites supplemented with crab shell ash (CSA), a waste product from the seafood industry. The composites with different weight percentages of CSA (0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%) were created using the stir-casting procedure. Afterward, a pin-on-disc device was used to evaluate these composites under different sliding conditions. The primary aim of this research is to analyze the effects of CSA content and sliding parameters on composite wear performance. In the experiment, it was discovered that the stability of the composites differed depending on the amount of CSA that was present. The unreinforced aluminum 7075 alloy's wear resistance was enhanced with CSA particles, according to the data. Wear resistance is optimal at 3% CSA content and begins to decline somewhat above this concentration. As a contribution to sustainable material engineering, this study is significant since it improves metal matrix composites' properties by reusing waste materials. This research emphasizes the potential of using waste materials such as crab shell ash to enhance mechanical properties and wear resistance, to promote sustainability in material engineering approaches.

The evaluation of in vitro and in silico anti-diabetic activity of wild edible fruit Ziziphus oenophilia (L.) extract: molecular docking and statistical analysis.

Abstract Background Seaweeds contain a widespread range of fatty acids (FA), and several of them have potential bioactivity. FAs are dynamic members of all biota, as well as being acknowledged for their critical function in initiating phytohormone interactions and acting as important participants in many defense signalling pathways of the plant system. The current study looks at the defense-eliciting potentials of fatty acids from the green seaweed Chaetomorpha antennina (Bory) Kützing and their impact on the polyphagous insect pest Spodoptera litura (Fab). Results The seaweed was detected with 19 fatty acids, with larger proportion of hexa and octadecanoic and linoleic acids. The algal fatty acid compounds (CFA) were successful in eliciting salicylic acid and phenolic compounds biosynthesis along with defense enzymes peroxidase (PO) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO). CFA enhanced the synthesis of defense enzymes, PO and PPO and phenols, post infestation with S. litura (> 50%) compared to control plants exposed to the pest. CFA was also effective in causing direct mortalities (96–98%) to the larvae (II-V instars). S. litura larvae exposed to elicited tomato plants displayed physiological incursions that extended larval-pupal duration to 26–28 days, preventing both morphogenetic transitions as well as affecting their morphology, that lead to the emergence of adults with malformed wings, legs. As a consequence, the fecundity was reduced by 60% affecting the reproductive performances of second-generation adults. The consumption rate (RCR) of larvae exposed to CFA was decreased by 84%, depicting feeding deterrence. These larvae were also observed with > 50% reduction in the levels of phosphatase enzyme secretion, bringing down larval growth rate from 0.58 to 0.34 mg/day. Histological analysis of exposed larvae displayed midgut cell disruption. Conclusion Hence, the study finally confirms the elicitor potentials of fatty acid compounds from C. antennina, by inducing natural systemic defenses. This investigation unlocks novel forecasts besides delivering an unconventional method for crop protection to moderate or interchange the solicitation of chemical pesticides. Graphical Abstract

This study investigates the implication of environmental strategies and environmental management accounting (EMA) on the environmental performance of manufacturing micro companies in India. It also assesses the mediating influence of EMA and the moderating impact of environmental proactivity. This paper employs the natural resource-based view theory to evaluate the domination of environmental strategies and EMA on environmental effectiveness. Even though MSMEs play a significant role in the Indian economy, their environmental impact is considerable due to less stringent adherence to environmental standards and practices. The data were gathered via a survey administered to managers of MSMEs. In the analysis, 107 reliable responses were included. Partial least square structural equation modeling is employed for the analysis of the dataset. The results show that environmental strategies positively influence environmental performance and EMA. EMA operates as a mediator for environmental strategies and environmental outcomes. Moreover, environmental proactivity moderates the association between environmental strategies and environmental performance. Hypotheses testing results conclude that manufacturing micro companies that emphasize environmental strategies and factors have improved environmental performance. Companies that proactively deal with environmental issues develop strategies to achieve sustainability.

BackgroundEarly childhood caries (ECC) is a major oral health problem, mainly in socially disadvantaged populations. ECC affects infants and preschool children worldwide. AimA survey to identify the factors influencing the ECC among preschool children in Madipakkam, Chennai. MethodologyA descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 3-5-year-old preschool children in Madipakkam, Chennai. Three schoolchildren participated in the study. In total, 313 children aged three to five years took part in the study. A closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect general information to assess their feeding habits and oral hygiene practices. ResultsDental caries experience (dmft and deft) was high among children who were bottle-fed compared to children who were breastfed. The children who were breastfed for less than six months had more caries than other children who were breastfed for more than six months. ConclusionFactors such as age and BMI did not show any association with ECC. Other factors such as feeding habits, snacking, oral health behavior, parental assistance in brushing, and regular dental visits are found to be associated with the ECC. Most of the risk factors studied in this study are modifiable. Therefore parents and children should be educated about the risk factors of ECC and mechanisms to control it.

Nanotechnology is developing into a fast-expanding discipline with applications in science and technology, and nanostructures are a crucial research tool in many fields. Due to their remarkable electrical, optical, magnetic, catalytic, and pharmacological capabilities, metal and metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have drawn study interest. Natural elements (plants, microorganisms, fungi, etc.) are utilized in a chemical-free, environmentally benign way to synthesize metals and metal oxides. The optical, electrical, and antimicrobial qualities of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) make them a popular choice. More than 200 active ingredients, including water-soluble, organic-soluble, and volatile chemicals, are found in Ganoderma. The main components are polysaccharides, adenosine, and terpenoids, each of which has exceptional therapeutic properties. This article explains the synthesis of Ag NPs by Ganoderma lucidum and tests the antibacterial effectiveness for use in biological applications.

This study is motivated through the interesting non-Arcchimedean stability results of ρ-inequalities and ρ-equations arising from linear, second power, third power and fourth power mappings. The aim of this paper is to determine the solutions of new multiplicative inverse µ-inequalities and µ-equations arising from multiplicative inverse mapping. Further, their stabilities involved with various superior limits are proved in the context of non-Archimedean complete normed spaces.

Abstract The rapid advancement of modern communication technologies necessitates the development of generalized multi-access frameworks and the continuous implementation of rate splitting, augmented with semantic awareness. This trend, coupled with the mounting pressure on wireless services, underscores the need for intelligent approaches to radio signal propagation. In response to these challenges, intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) have garnered significant attention for their ability to control data transmission systems in a goal-oriented and dynamic manner. This innovation is largely attributed to equitable resource allocation and the dynamic enhancement of network performance. However, the integration of rate-splitting multi-access (RSMA) architecture with semantic considerations imposes stringent requirements on IRS platforms to ensure seamless connectivity and broad coverage for a diverse user base without interference. Semantic communications hinge on a knowledge base-a centralized repository of integrated information related to the transmitted data-which becomes critically important in multi-antenna scenarios. This article proposes a novel set of design strategies for RSMA-IRS systems, enabled by reconfigurable intelligent surface synergizing with semantic communication principles. An experimental analysis is presented, demonstrating the effectiveness of these design guidelines in the context of Beyond 5G/6G communication systems. The RSMA-IRS model, infused with semantic communication, offers a promising solution for future wireless networks. Performance evaluations of the proposed approach reveal that, despite an increase in the number of users, the delay in the RSMA-IRS framework incorporating semantics is 2.94% less than that of a RSMA-IRS system without semantic integration.

Abstract This article presents a one-step ultrasonication technique for generating biomass carbon dots (BCDs) from neem bark (Azadirachta indica) powder. The BCDs were characterized using modern techniques such as UV–Vis, FTIR, Raman, XRD, HRTEM, FESEM, EDAX, and Zeta potential analyses. Unlike traditional nanocomposite bed systems, this study utilized BCDs as a liquid-phase adsorbent for the regenerative adsorption of the environmentally harmful dye, methylene blue (MB), through an in-situ precipitation reaction. This involved the formation of BCDs-MB adduct via an electrostatic mechanism. The adsorption capacity and percentage of removal were remarkable at 605 mg g–1 and 64.7% respectively, exceeding various solid-based adsorption methods in the literature. The Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetics model provided an excellent fit for this system. The calculated thermodynamic parameter, Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) was negative, indicating a spontaneous, exothermic, and physisorption-based mechanism. The regenerative capacity of our system was further demonstrated by successfully extracting and recovering the MB dye (64%) using ethyl alcohol as the solvent. This method provides an efficient means of recovering valuable cationic organic dye compounds from contaminated environments.

Abstract In the context of smart cities, ensuring road safety is crucial due to increasing urbanization and the interconnected nature of contemporary urban environments. Leveraging innovative technologies is essential to mitigate risks and create safer communities. Thus, there is a compelling imperative to develop advanced solutions to enhance road safety within smart city frameworks. In this article, we introduce a comprehensive vehicle safety framework tailored specifically for smart cities in the realm of Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT). This framework seamlessly integrates a variety of sensors, including eye blink, ultrasonic, and alcohol sensors, to bolster road safety. The utilization of eye blink sensor serves to promptly detect potential hazards, alerting drivers through audible cues and thereby enhancing safety on smart city roads. Moreover, ultrasonic sensors provide real time information about surrounding vehicle speeds, thereby facilitating smoother traffic flow. To address concerns related to alcohol consumption and its potential impact on road safety, our framework incorporates a specialized sensor that effectively monitors the driver’s alcohol levels. In instances of high alcohol content, the system utilizes GPS and GSM technology to automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed while simultaneously notifying pertinent authorities for prompt intervention. Additionally, our proposed system optimizes inter-vehicle communication in smart cities by leveraging Li-Fi technology, enabling faster and more efficient data transmission via visible light communication (VLC). The integration of Li-Fi enhances connectivity among connected vehicles, contributing to a more cohesive and intelligent urban transportation network. Through the structured integration of AIoT technologies, our framework lays a robust foundation for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future in smart city transportation. It offers significant advancements in road safety and establishes the groundwork for further enhancement in intelligent urban transportation networks.

Introduction: Infection-related glomerulonephritis, IRGN in adults is increasing in prevalence in India. However, there are only a few prospective studies from south India on the long term prognosis of this disease. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study on patients above 18 years of age, with biopsy proven IRGN, at a tertiary care centre in south India with a minimum follow up of 6 months. Results: A total of 100 patients were included in the study. Peak incidence was in the age group of 40-60 years (n=45, 45%) with a male preponderance (n=56,56%). The most common co-morbidities were diabetes mellitus (n=27, 27%) and alcohol intake (n=13,13%). The most common source of infection was skin and soft tissues (n=41, 41%). Streptococcus and Staphylococcus were the most common isolated organisms. One patient had IRGN following SARS C0V-2 virus infection. Twenty three (n=23, 23%) required dialysis initiation. The mean follow up was 31.4 weeks. 3 patients died within 1 month of illness. At the end of 6 months, out of the 97 surviving patients, 34 (n=34,35%) patients had chronic kidney disease, CKD (eGFR 40 years, associated diabetes mellitus,underlying CKD, dialysis requiring renal failure at presentation,presence of crescentric GN and moderate to severe Interstitial Fibrosis and Tubular Atrophy in renal biopsy were identified as risk factors for development of CKD by univariate analysis. Conclusion: Adult IRGN is as an important cause of CKD and end stage renal disease in Indian adults especially in diabetics and those above 40 years of age.

Combining ability, along with heterosis was elucidated for nine yield attributing and 10 grain quality traits in a set of 40 rice hybrid combinations derived from 13 parents using Line × Tester mating approach. The analysis of combining ability unveiled significant GCA and SCA variances, highlighting the importance of both additive and non-additive genetic components. The ratio of dominant genetic variance to additive genetic variance exceeded unity, indicating the prevalence of non-additive gene action in governing the inheritance of all examined traits. The parental line CO 55 and the testers IC 457996 and IC 208262 were recognized as good combiners for the majority of yield-related and grain-quality traits. Regarding per se performance, heterosis, and sca effects, the crosses CO 55 × IC 457996, ADT 54 × IC 115439 and ADT 54 × IC 115439 were found promising. Consequently, these combinations could be exploited for recombination breeding aimed at developing early maturing, high-yielding fine-grain rice varieties with market acceptance.

Rice (Oryza sativa L.), a semi-aquatic crop cultivated in diverse environments from sea coasts to high altitudes, faces submergence issues impacting one-third of global cultivation. Effectively choosing superior offspring with a range of genetic traits is vital for improving yield stability, particularly in the development of submergence-tolerant varieties. This is accomplished by comprehending gene action through the generation mean analysis. This experimental material comprised six generations (P1, P2, F1, F2, B1, and B2) obtained from two rice crosses viz., ADT 45 x APD 19002 and CO 54 x APD 19002 involving three parents, examining twelve traits. In the cross ADT 45 x APD 19002, traits like days to fifty per cent flowering, plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, flag leaf width, total number of grains per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle, and single plant yield exhibited opposite signs of dominance (h) and dominance × dominance (l), indicating a prevalence of duplicate epistasis. Simultaneously, additive(d) and additive × additive(i) gene effects were displayed by days to fifty per cent flowering, total number of tillers per plant, panicle length, flag leaf width, total number of grains per panicle, and single plant yield. In cross CO 54 x APD 19002, traits such as days to fifty per cent flowering, plant height, flag leaf width, number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, and single plant yield suggested predominance of duplicate epistasis. Meanwhile, additive and additive × additive gene effects predominantly influenced the days to fifty per cent flowering, spikelet fertility, and single plant yield. These findings propose the potential for improvement through later-generation selection, emphasizing the integration of selection with screening for submergence tolerance to develop high-yielding submergence-tolerant varieties.

Aims: To assess the frontal QRS- T angle (f QRS- T angle) in patients with left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) as compared to right ventricular mid septal pacing (RVSP) implanted for symptomatic high degree atrioventricular (AV) block and to compare with control subjects with normal ventricular conduction (CSNVC) Methods: A total of one-fifty subjects were chosen (50 patients with LBBP, 50 patients with RVSP and 50 CSNVC). The indication for pacemaker implantation was symptomatic high degree AV block. Baseline clinical and electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters like QRS duration (QRSD), QRS axis and f QRS-T angle and Ejection Fraction (EF) were assessed. f QRS-T angle was measured as the difference between the computerised mean frontal QRS and T wave axes in the limb leads. If the difference between the QRS axis and T-wave axis exceeds 180°, then the resultant QRS-T angle would be calculated as 360° minus the absolute angle to obtain a value between 0° and 180°. Baseline, immediate post procedural and 6 month follow up (f/u) ECGs and EF were chosen for the analysis. Results: Patients who underwent LBBP had significantly shorter paced QRSD than patients who had undergone RVSP (112 ± 12 ms vs 146 ± 13 ms; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 43, −31; p

Abstract Patient-derived organoid models of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer would provide a much-needed tool to understand drug resistance and disease progression better. However, the establishment and long-term maintenance of ER expression, function, and response in vitro remains a significant challenge. Here, we report the development of an ER+ breast tumor organoid medium (BTOM-ER) that conserves ER expression, estrogen responsiveness, and dependence, as well as sensitivity to endocrine therapy of ER+ patient-derived xenograft organoids (PDXO). Our findings demonstrate the utility of subtype-specific culture conditions that better mimic the characteristics of the breast epithelial biology and microenvironment, providing a powerful platform for investigating therapy response and disease progression of ER+ breast cancer.

Abstract Through the experimental and computational analyses, the present study sought to elucidate the chemical composition and anticancer potential of Sapria himalayana plant extract (SHPE). An in vitro analysis of the plant extract was carried out to determine the anticancer potential. Further, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulation were employed to evaluate the potential phytochemical compounds for cervical cancer (CC) drug formulations. The SHPE exhibited anti-cancerous potential through inhibition properties against cancer cell lines. The LC-MS profiling showed the presence of 14 compounds in SHPE. Using network pharmacology analysis, AKT1 (AKT serine/threonine kinase 1) is identified as the possible potential target, and EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) is identified as the possible key signal pathway. The major targets were determined to be AKT1, EGFR by topological analysis and molecular docking. An in silico interaction of phytoconstituents employing molecular docking demonstrated a high binding inclination of ergoloid mesylate and Ergosta-5,7,9(11),22-tetraen-3-ol, (3.beta.,22E)- with binding affinities of -15.5 kcal/mol, and -11.3 kcal/mol respectively. Further, MD simulation and PCA analyses showed that the phytochemicals possessed significant binding efficacy with CC protein. These results point the way for more investigation into SHPE compound’s potential as CC treatment. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Aim Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among women. One form of care related to early detection of breast cancer is breast self-examination (BSE). However, evidence on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of BSE and its determining factors are minuscule in an Indian context. Therefore, the present study primarily examined the prevalence of KAP of BSE. Further, its association with general self-care and cultural factors was determined. Methods This cross-sectional study obtained data from 412 women (Mn age = 26.63) from two rural localities of Vellore district, Tamil Nadu, India. Self-reported questionnaires of KAP of BSE, self-care, and cultural factors were applied. Statistical analyses include independent sample t-test and binomial logistic regression. Results The majority of the sample had inadequate knowledge (58%), unfavourable attitudes (73.8%), and poor practice (89.6%) of BSE. The general self-care among the sample was moderate. Self-care was found to be a significant predictor of knowledge (b = 0.07, p