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Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is an important agricultural crop because of the nutritional value of the fruit and its economic importance. Various techniques have been practiced to enhance pepper's productivity and nutritional value. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the impact of different training methods and biostimulant applications on sweet pepper plants' growth, yield, and chemical composition under greenhouse conditions. For the training method, unpruned plants were compared with one stem and two stem plants. Unpruned plants had the fruit number of 33.98, fruit weight of 2.18 kg·plant−1, and total marketable yield of 1 090.0 kg·hm−2. One stem plant gave the best average fruit weight of 86.63 g, vitamin C content of 13.66 mg·kg−1 FW, and TSS content of 7.21%. However, two stem plants had the highest fruit setting of 62.41%, carotenoid content of 0.14 mg·kg−1 FW, and fruit chlorophyll content of 3.57 mg·kg−1 FW. For biostimulant applications, control plants were compared with the Disper Root (DR) and Disper Vital (DV). DR application significantly increased total sugar, carotenoid, fruit chlorophyll, and TSS contents compared to the control and DV applications. While, applying DV increased fruit setting, plant fruit number, weight, and total marketable yield. In addition, integrating one stem plant with the DR application improved fiber, vitamin C, and TSS contents significantly. Two stem plants, and the DV application improved fruit setting and carotenoid content. Thus, one and two stem training methods integrated with the DR and DV biostimulant applications could be considered for developing agricultural practices to obtain commercial yield and improve the nutrition values of sweet peppers, as unpruned plants without biostimulant applications have a negative impact.

Maize is an important cereal in many developed and developing countries of the world. One of the primary challenges for maize cultivation is soil acidity. Acidic soil is a major constrain in achieving food security requiring sustainable solutions. Biochar, a pyrogenic carbon-rich material, carries reactive surfaces (i.e., high surface area and variable surface charges). Therefore, it facilitates nutrient retention in soil and gradual release to plants, thereby supporting crop growth. However, the combine effects of functionalized biochar with microbes on phosphorus (P) bioavailability and plant performance remain unclear. This study investigates the application of different oxidized biochars (i.e.,fresh rice husk biochar (RHB), pH adjusted oxidized RHB and control) and phosphate solubilizing bacteria (i.e., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and control) on soil properties including phosphorus dynamics and the performance of maize grown in an acid soil. Biochar was oxidized using 10% hydrogen peroxide while the pH was adjusted to 8.5. Maize was grown in pots having 20 kg of soil or soil-biochar mixture. Overall, biochar and microbes treatments increased soil phosphorus bioavailability and maize yield with a greater effects in the oxidized biochar giving a significant biochar × microbes interactions. Specifically, oxidized biochar when applied with Pseudomonas aeruginosa increased P availability by 380 % which then contributed to yield increment (291%). We also observed a significant reduction in available aluminum (Al) concentration (40% ) compare to the control. These improvement in yield might have occurred due to an increase soil pH, P bioavailability (r2= 0.74), and a reduction in Al toxicity (r2= 0.36).Findings of this study could have significant implications for crop production in acidic soil.

The problem of convective heat transfers of Eyring-Powell conveying Copper (Cu) coupled with alumina (Al2O3) are employed as the combination of particles, along with water as the base fluid over a vertical Riga plate is numerically addressed. The performance of heat transmission is influenced by the electromagnetohydrodynamic (EMHD) imposed produced from the Riga plate, and it could be used to postpone boundary layer separation. A model in the form of Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) is introduced to describe the physical behavior of the proposed problem. With the inclusion of relevant equation variables, this collection of PDEs is transformed into Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) which are in a less complex form. Then the bvp4c solver was employed to solve the respective equations. The characteristics of fluid velocity and temperature are investigated graphically. It is found the buoyancy assisting and opposing flows offered dual solutions whereas the purely forced convection flow gives a unique solution. Through an investigation of flow stability, the first solution is confirmed as the physical one. In essence, the volumetric concentration of Cu increases the heat-transferring ability for assisting and opposing flows. The higher suction imposed at the boundary causes a decrease in the heat transfer rate under the shrinking case.

"Legal Transplantation," the process of transferring a rule or legal system from one country to another, is a concept introduced by Scottish legal scholar Alan Watson in the 1970s. Legal scholars hold diverse opinions on legal transplantation, with some advocating for it and others opposing it, each providing evidence to support their stance. The Iraqi civil law incorporated legal transplantation through the efforts of the esteemed jurist Abd al-Razzāq al-Sanhūrī. However, al-Sanhūrī's transplantations did not achieve the expected success in all instances. In several key areas, the transplantations did not function as anticipated and remain underutilized. This paper investigates the failures of legal transplantation by examining two specific examples: the foundation system and the consensual subrogation system. The primary reason for the unsuccessful transplantation in Iraqi civil law is the lack of originality in the transplanted material when compared to the originality and comprehensiveness of Islamic jurisprudence.

The sustainable management of agricultural waste is vital for addressing environmental challenges while enhancing resource efficiency in agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of agricultural residues, specifically coconut and oil palm by-products, as growth media components. Growth media mixtures were formulated using coconut coir dust (CCD), coconut shell ash (CSA), and palm kernel shell biochar (PKSB), and their physicochemical properties were analyzed. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three replications. The results indicated that a growth media mixture consisting of 100% CSA demonstrated high pH (7.89), electrical conductivity (2.70 dS m-1), cation exchange capacity (12.57 cmolc kg-1), and significant concentrations of P (13.90 mg l-1) and K (191.70 mg l-1), which suggests its suitability as a liming agent. However, this mixture exhibited limitations in aeration and water retention due to low porosity (24.3%). Furthermore, increasing the proportions of CSA and PKSB significantly enhanced the growth media’s bulk density and particle density. These findings provide valuable insights into developing efficient growth media from agricultural by-products, thereby contributing to sustainable waste management and innovative farming practices.

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has fundamentally reshaped anatomy education, offering invaluable insights to guide the future of anatomy pedagogy. As we transition into a post-pandemic era, it is crucial to integrate the lessons learned to create a more resilient, flexible, and effective educational environment. This paper examines the transformative strategies implemented at Universiti Sains Malaysia during the pandemic, focusing on the empowerment of blended learning, technology-enhanced tools, student-centered learning practical sessions, and enhancement of formative assessment. These strategies include integrating digital learning resources, such as the Virtual Anatomy Museum and online histology quizzes, with in-person instruction, fostering a supportive and interactive learning environment. Additionally, practical sessions were redesigned to emphasize collaborative learning, peer teaching, and developing critical thinking and communication skills. Formative assessments were integrated to provide continuous feedback and support ongoing learning. This comprehensive approach not only enhanced students’ understanding of anatomical concepts but also improved their emotional well-being and overall learning experience. The lessons learned from the pandemic have paved the way for a more innovative and adaptive anatomy education that is well-prepared for future challenges.

Lakuan pertuturan merupakan ujaran yang mempunyai makna mengikut konteks tertentu. Kajian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis lakuan pertuturan dalam filem Adiwiraku dengan menggunakan Teori Lakuan Pertuturan Searle. Teori ini membahagikan lakuan pertuturan kepada lima kategori, iaitu lakuan direktif, lakuan asertif, lakuan ekspresif, lakuan komisif dan lakuan deklaratif. Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif melalui kaedah analisis kandungan teks ujaran dialog dalam filem Adiwiraku. Data yang dikumpulkan dikategorikan mengikut kategori dalam Teori Lakuan Pertuturan Searle. Hasil dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa terdapat empat jenis lakuan pertuturan yang diujarkan dalam filem ini, iaitu lakuan direktif, lakuan asertif, lakuan ekspresif dan lakuan komisif, manakala lakuan deklaratif tidak terdapat dalam kajian ini. Kajian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam kepada semua pihak tentang cara sesuatu komunikasi berfungsi dalam kehidupan seharian, terutamanya apabila melibatkan interaksi sosial dan pendidikan. Pemahaman tentang lakuan pertuturan amat penting untuk membolehkan seseorang itu memahami perkara yang diujarkan ketika berkomunikasi antara satu dengan lain. Sehubungan dengan itu, kajian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan inspirasi kepada pembaca untuk mengkaji aspek pragmatik dalam komunikasi dengan lebih mendalam yang melibatkan media, seperti filem yang sering menjadi cerminan sebenar kehidupan dan interaksi sosial masyarakat di sesebuah negara.

Background: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, full time lockdown was applied in many countries around the world. Published literature shows that the risk of suicide and assaults has increased but the risk of motor vehicle accidents has reduced. In this research, we want to study the impact of lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic on the trauma cases who presented to the trauma cen-ter. Method: This retrospective cross-sectional study retrieved all the trauma cases who presented to the Emergency department in Rashid hospital during April 2019 and April 2020 from the patients' electronic records system. We included all the trauma cases who fell in the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) of T1-T3 only. Results: Total of 3,268 trauma cases were studied. The number of cases in April 2019 was double the cases in 2020. However, the pattern of injuries was variable in the two years. There were high-er rates of motor vehicle accidents in non-lockdown month than the lockdown month (10.5% and 6.5%, respectively) (p-value [SJEMed 2024; 5(2.000): 081-087]

Environmental monitoring of pesticide residues has become increasingly crucial for ensuring food safety and environmental sustainability. Current demands are not met by traditional analytical tools, but the integration of smartphones, due to their small size, high accessibility, fast processing speed, and powerful imaging capacity, holds significant potential for on-site detection of pesticide residues. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the application of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) sensors equipped with smartphones for the detection of pesticide residues in environmental samples, covering the period from 2018 to 2024. The review encompasses recent advancements in MIP synthesis, sensor fabrication, and the incorporation of principles for improved signal precision with the integration of smartphones based on sensing signals (optical and electrochemical signals). Additionally, the diverse range of environmental samples were explored, including water, soil, and crops, where MIP sensors have demonstrated their efficacy in detecting pesticides. The potential for real-time monitoring and the challenges associated with deploying these sensors at lab scale are discussed. Overall, this review highlights the transformative impact of MIP sensors with smartphone-based detection in the field of pesticide residue analysis, paving the way for enhanced environmental monitoring practices.

Objective To conduct a systematic review on the effects of multisectoral interventions for health on health system performance. Methods We conducted a systematic review according to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta- analysis protocols. We searched for peer-reviewed journal articles in PubMed[R], Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews on 31 August 2023 (updating on 28 February 2024). We removed duplicates, screened titles and abstracts, and then conducted a full-text eligibility and quality assessment. Findings We identified an initial 1118 non-duplicate publications, 62 of which met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The largest proportions of reviewed studies focused on multisectoral interventions directly related to specific health outcomes (66.1%; 41 studies) and/or social determinants of health (48.4%; 30 studies), but without explicit reference to overall health system performance. Most reviewed publications did not address process indicators (83.9%; 52/62) or discuss sustainability for multisectoral interventions in health (72.6%; 45/62). However, we observed that the greatest proportion (66.1%; 41/62) considered health system goals: health equity (68.3%; 28/41) and health outcomes (63.4%; 26/41). Although the greatest proportion (64.5%; 40/62) proposed mechanisms explaining how multisectoral interventions for health could lead to the intended outcomes, none used realistic evaluations to assess these. Conclusion Our review has established that multisectoral interventions influence health system performance through immediate improvements in service delivery efficiency, readiness, acceptability and affordability. The interconnectedness of these effects demonstrates their role in addressing the complexities of modern health care. [phrase omitted] [phrase omitted] Objectif Realiser une revue systematique consacree a l'impact des interventions multisectorielles sur la performance des systemes de sante. Methodes Nous avons procede a une revue systematique en appliquant les elements de rapport privilegies dans les protocoles de revues systematiques et meta-analyses. Nous avons explore PubMed[R], Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, ainsi que la Base de donnees Cochrane des revues systematiques le 31 aout 2023 (mise a jour le 28 fevrier 2024), a la recherche d'articles de revue evalues par des pairs. Ensuite, nous avons supprime les doublons, passe les titres et resumes au crible, puis determine la qualite et l'admissibilite des articles complets. Resultats Nous avons initialement identifie 1118 publications non dupliquees; 62 d'entre elles repondaient a nos criteres d'inclusion et d'exclusion. Une grande partie des etudes examinees portaient sur des interventions multisectorielles en lien direct avec des resultats de sante specifiques (66,1%; 41 etudes) et/ou des determinants sociaux de la sante (48,4%; 30 etudes), sans toutefois faire explicitement reference a la performance globale des systemes de sante. La majorite des publications ne mentionnaient aucun indicateur de processus (83,9%; 52/62) et n'abordaient pas la durabilite des interventions multisectorielles dans le domaine de la sante (72,6%; 45/62). Nous avons neanmoins constate qu'en general, elles tenaient compte des objectifs relatifs aux systemes de sante (66,1%; 41/62): l'equite en sante (68,3%; 28/41) et les resultats de sante (63,4%; 26/41). Bien que la plupart (64,5%; 40/62) proposent des mecanismes visant a expliquer comment les interventions multisectorielles en matiere de sante pourraient amener aux resultats escomptes, aucune n'avait recours a des evaluations realistes pour les mesurer. Conclusion Notre revue nous a permis d'etablir que les interventions multisectorielles influencaient la performance des systemes de sante a travers des ameliorations immediates en termes d'efficacite, de disponibilite, d'acceptation et d'abordabilite des prestations de services. L'interdependance entre ces effets temoigne de l'importance qu'ils revetent lorsqu'il s'agit d'apprehender les rouages complexes des soins de sante modernes. [phrase omitted] Objetivo Realizar una revision sistematica sobre los efectos de las intervenciones multisectoriales en favor de la salud sobre el rendimiento de los sistemas sanitarios. Metodos Se realizo una revision sistematica de acuerdo con los items de informe preferidos para los protocolos de revision sistematica y metanalisis. Se realizaron busquedas de articulos de revistas con revision por pares en PubMed[R], Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature y la Base de Datos Cochrane de Revisiones Sistematicas el 31 de agosto de 2023 (actualizacion el 28 de febrero de 2024). Se eliminaron los duplicados, se examinaron los titulos y los resumenes y, a continuacion, se realizo una evaluacion de la elegibilidad y la calidad del texto completo. Resultados Se identificaron 1118 publicaciones iniciales no duplicadas, 62 de las cuales cumplian los criterios de inclusion y exclusion. El mayor porcentaje de estudios revisados se centro en intervenciones multisectoriales directamente relacionadas con resultados sanitarios especificos (66,1%; 41 estudios) o determinantes sociales de la salud (48,4%; 30 estudios), pero sin referencia explicita al rendimiento general del sistema sanitario. La mayoria de las publicaciones revisadas no abordaron indicadores de proceso (83,9%; 52/62) ni discutieron la sostenibilidad de las intervenciones multisectoriales en salud (72,6%; 45/62). Sin embargo, se observo que el mayor porcentaje (66,1%; 41/62) tenia en cuenta los objetivos del sistema sanitario: equidad sanitaria (68,3%; 28/41) y resultados sanitarios (63,4%; 26/41). Aunque el mayor porcentaje (64,5%; 40/62) propuso mecanismos que explicaban como las intervenciones multisectoriales para la salud podian conseguir los resultados previstos, ninguno empleo evaluaciones realistas para evaluarlos. Conclusion La revision que se realizo ha demostrado que las intervenciones multisectoriales influyen en el rendimiento de los sistemas sanitarios a traves de mejoras inmediatas en la eficiencia, la disponibilidad, la aceptabilidad y la asequibilidad de la prestacion de servicios. La interconexion de estos efectos demuestra su funcion a la hora de abordar las complejidades de la atencion sanitaria moderna., Introduction There is unequivocal recognition that health and well-being are determined by non-medical factors, including structural, social and commercial determinants of health. (1) Addressing those determinants is a task for [...]

Introduction: The success of any prosthetic rehabilitation depends on acceptable occlusion and muscle coordination. Occlusal therapy should be an integral part of restorative and prosthetic treatment. A thorough diagnosis of bite force and muscle activity is required to ensure the patient’s masticatory function and comfort. The current system of digitisation lacks devices for the simultaneous evaluation of muscle activity and occlusal bite force, representing a significant limitation in understanding and managing restorative and rehabilitation therapy. Aim: To assess the efficacy of an ingeniously designed integrated device that records occlusal bite force and muscle activity. Materials and Methods: An observational study was conducted among 112 healthy volunteers in the Department of Prosthodontics at Sri Ramachandra Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, for a period of one month and 45 days, from February 5, 2024 to March 20, 2024. The study aimed to validate the efficacy of a device designed to record bite force and muscle action potential simultaneously. The device consists of two key components: a square Force-sensitive Resistor (FSR) that records changes in resistance in response to applied force and a MyoWare 2.0 muscle sensor with Arduino (Advancer Technologies) for measuring the electrical activity of muscles. Study participants, aged between 21 and 35 years, were seated in an upright position. Muscle activity was recorded with surface electrodes placed on the masseter region, following Surface Electromyography for the Non Invasive Assessment of Muscles (SENIAM) guidelines, while a ground electrode was placed on the neck. Maximum Bite Force (MBF) was measured by placing intraoral pressure sensors, with recordings taken in maximum intercuspation three times, spaced one minute apart for each recording. Both muscle activity and bite force were recorded simultaneously. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between bite forces and muscle action potential with standard average values. Results: The results revealed a strong positive correlation between the masseter muscle activity action potential and the bite force values of the right molar (r=0.964, p

Introduction: Periodic paralysis is a condition that causes recurrent episodes of flaccid paralysis, and it can be primary or secondary. Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is the most common type of primary periodic paralysis, and it is inherited through autosomal dominant gene transmission. Males are affected three times more often than females, and the paralysis attacks usually occur at night after a period of vigorous exercise. It is crucial to exclude other diagnostic entities based on the nature of presentation, physical examination, and paraclinical studies. Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is more prevalent in Asian or Hispanic males with thyrotoxicosis, where up to 10% of thyrotoxic patients may experience periodic paralysis. Case Presentations: Here, we present 6 cases of patients who came to our care with varying degrees of muscle weakness, each showing interesting and diverse laboratory results. Conclusion: In patient assessment, it is crucial to consider social and family history. Even without this information, awareness of potential diagnoses is vital. The cause should be carefully considered for possible simple treatments. Failing to recognize and address this condition promptly could lead to severe outcomes. Timely identification and intervention are essential for effective disease management and patient welfare.

Over the past few decades, composite joints have been regarded as one of the most promising approaches. After reviewing the research articles dealing with composite beam-column joints, it can be withdrawn that few researchers studied and developed different types of composite beam-column joints. The objectives of this paper to study the effect and behavior of different connection types on the composite beam – column joint under repeated loading as well as to investigate new forms of slab connection with column flange in composite connection joints, aiming to enhance the behaviors of the joints and make the slab endure a part of the load in a more efficient way. Five specimens with various connection types were tested to failure; the composite model number two (CM2) was considered the control specimen. Regarding the ultimate moment, the result found that CM5 has moment 50.47% more than control specimen, the lowest rotation value was in CM5. The general behaviours of the FEM were in good accordance with the experiment results. According to the parametric a higher yield strength is more rigid stiffer, the effect of web thickness on the load is too small and increase in load resistance with an increase in beam flange thickness.

Aim: Since the advent of radiotherapy, the success rate of head and neck cancer treatment has increased significantly. However, when the tissue tolerance level is exceeded, unnecessary and uncontrolled exposure to radiation is considered detrimental. Such problems remain difficult to prevent and manage. The aim of the study to evaluate and compare the degree of attenuation of therapeutic radiation using four different radiation shielding materials of varying thickness. Study Setting and Design: In vitro experimental study. Materials and Methods: The samples were divided into four groups based on the different radiation shielding materials of thickness 3mm and 5mm. The materials are Lead (Pb), Silver-tin alloy (Ag-Sn) with Polyvinylsiloxane (PVS), Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) with Barium sulphate (BaSO4), and a combination of Ag-Sn with PVS and PMMA with BaSO4 which was exposed to radiation. The radiation dose measurements were recorded and the radiation attenuation properties of the shielding materials were evaluated. Among all of the shielding materials the most efficient material under consideration is determined. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way ANOVA followed by post hoc test was used to compare the means of all four groups. Results: A statistically significant difference between groups was found by a one-way ANOVA with a P = 0.001. In the post hoc test, statistically significant findings were obtained with a P = 0.05 when comparing the variation values of 3mm and 5mm thickness between each group and other groups. Conclusion: The shielding materials results in significant reductions in radiation dosage. It was concluded that the combinations of Ag-Sn alloy with PVS, and PMMA with BaSO4 of thickness 5 mm had a good shielding effect.

Introduction Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is characterized by a progressive damage of immune system, resulting in a number of opportunistic infections and hematological abnormalities, and become more severe in late stages. Hematological abnormalities are common manifestations, with factors including CD4+ count, opportunistic infection, and HIV viral load. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between CD4+ count, opportunistic infection, and HIV viral load with hematological abnormality in HIV patients. Material and methods An observational study was conducted at tertiary institution, Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital, Makassar, from November 2021 to February 2022. Secondary data from medi­cal records of HIV-infected patients were used. Chi-square test and independent t-test were employed to determine the correlation between CD4+ count, opportunistic infection, and HIV viral load with hematological abnormality. Results Among 83 HIV subjects, anemia was present in 47% of the cases. Leucopenia, lymphopenia, and thrombocytopenia were observed in 10.8%, 28.9%, and 9.6%, respectively. Anemia and lymphopenia significantly correlated with CD4+ count (p 0.05), between anemia and lymphopenia with opportunistic infection and co-infection (p > 0.05), and between anemia, leucopenia, lymphopenia, and thrombocytopenia with viral load (p > 0.05). Conclusions Anemia and lymphopenia significantly correlated with CD4+ count. CD4+ count moni­toring is needed for early detection of hematological abnormalities in order to lower morbidity and increase quality of life.

Biochar can be a good soil amendment to reduce the soil pH, increase crop growth rate, and improve the efficient use of fertilizer. Other than that, silicon fertilizer also would promote photosynthetic ability on plant development that would help to produce high yield. In this work, a series of experiments was conducted to observe the effect of rice husk biochar and silicon fertilizer on the maize growth rate and soil pH. A 45-day pot experiment in the greenhouse with three replicates of 9 experimental treatment combinations of RHB at two rates (5 and 2.5 t.ha-1) with silicon fertilizer at three rates (125%, 100%, 75%), sole biochar (10 t.ha-1), sole silicon fertilizer (100%) and control (NPK) to observe the best rate and combination to improve growth rate and change in soil chemical in acid soil. The result showed that the co-application of sole biochar and biochar with Silicon significantly improved growth development, increased photosynthesis rate, altered soil pH, and reduced Fe concentration compared to control. The plant height increased 88.35% from T4 (5 t.ha-1 RHB + 100% Si) compared to the control and the conductance was higher in T4 (0.53) followed by T8 (0.438) while T1 (0.071) recorded the lowest conductance. The shoot fresh weight was higher in T4 (127.83 g) followed by T8 (57.14 g). However, the weight increased by 343.7% at T4 followed by T8 (2.5 t.ha-1 RHB + 75% Si) at 98.33%. The highest pH increment of 1.24 units (T1 = 5.53, T4 = 6.77) of soil pH was noted from T4 (5 t.ha-1 RHB + 100% Si) compared to control (NPK), and the highest total Fe in soil was observed from T1 (442.30 mg.kg-1). The current study results showed that T4 (50% RHB + 100% Silicon) was the best treatment over the other rates of RHB and silicon increased plant height, photosynthetic rate, and biomass.

This research is conducted to study the induction of polyploidization in Katokkon chili using colchicine to study the effect of chromosome doubling or polyploid on certain superior characters during the seedling phase. Some morphological alterations were determined and proven to persist during the seedling phase. The study was conducted in the laboratory and screen house of the Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Hasanuddin. The polyploidy of the Katokkon chili is induced by soaking the germinated seeds in 0%, 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2% colchicine solutions for 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours each. Ploidy levels are analyzed using flow cytometry (Partec®Cy-Flow Space TM). Results show significant differences in colchicine treatment affecting all parameters observed: hypocotyl base of sprouts, plant height, stomata size, and the number of lateral shoots. Flow cytometry analysis histogram confirmed that administration of 0.1% colchicine concentration with 48 hours soaking time and 0.2% colchicine concentration with 24- or 48-hour soaking time can induce tetraploid plants (4n=48) with different coefficients of variance (CV-x%), 5.36%, 4.65%, 6.08%, respectively. Vigorous growth phenotype in leaf size and plant height was more clearly seen in the one-month-old tetraploid Katokkon chili seedlings induced by 0.10% with a soaking time of 48 hours.

Professional Learning Community (PLC) is embedded in one of the Malaysian educational policies with the aim of improving teachers' effectiveness. However, the robust empirical evidence upon this matter is scarce, especially in terms of the relationship between school culture and PLC. Therefore, a correlational design study conducted to examine the relationships between the school culture dimensions (Collaboration, Collegiality, Emphasis on Learning, Professional Value, Sharing Planning, Transformational Leadership) and PLC. A randomized controlled trial cluster involving 612 teachers has been conducted. The Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS version 3 was applied to analyze the data. The result from SEM path analysis shows that only three constructs have significant influences on PLC, which are Professional Value ([beta] :0.045); Sharing Planning ([beta] :0.071), and Transformational Leadership ([beta] :0.040). This study has gone some way towards enhancing the understanding of the importance of school culture in promoting teachers' professional development through PLC.

This study aimed to prove the effectiveness of the application of the group investigation learning model in improving students' interpersonal skills. The sample of this study was 116 students, which was determined by a simple random sampling technique. This experimental research used pre-test post-test Control Group Design. Data were obtained by direct observation of the interpersonal skills of students during the learning process. Final observation score of interpersonal skills is 0.026 and the t value count greater than t table (2.272>1.980). Thus, there are differences in interpersonal skills between the experimental class and the control class. This means that the use of the group investigation model is effective in improving students' interpersonal skills.

Abstract Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is an alternative treatment for craniofacial bone defects reconstruction through membrane barrier adaptation, such as demineralized dentin material membrane (DDMM). DDMM is used as a substitute for GBR material, which aligns with Green Economy principles, it has a good biological osteoinductive and osteoconductive effects, and its structure resembles bones. The balance of bone remodeling when experiencing craniofacial defects will be altered and allow changes to resorption activity, so the mechanisms of osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption are vital. Objective: this article aims to analyze the expression of TNF-α, RANKL, and osteoclast cells count after application of DDMM as GBR in mandibular bone defects. Methodology: this is an experimental study with a post-test only control group design, which began with the randomization of 120 rats into five groups: K(−), without membrane implantation; K(+), PPCM; P1, DDMM; P2, DDMM + bone graft; P3, PPCM + bone graft. The expression of TNF-α, RANKL, and osteoclast cells count were observed, followed by analysis using a one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey HSD comparison test. Results: there were significant differences in the expression of TNF-α, RANKL, and osteoclast cells count in all study groups (p=0.000). TNF-α showed a decreasing difference with the highest expression in the K(−) group on day 3 of 12.00±2.16. RANKL expression increased on day 14 and decreased on day 21 in all groups. The osteoclast cells count generally showed a critical period with the highest increase in the K(−) group on day 14 of 73.00±0.00. Conclusion: DDMM has the potential to be a superior membrane substitute compared to PPCM as GBR in alternative treatment for craniofacial bone defects reconstruction.

Cataracts are significant causes of blindness, closely linked to prolonged hypercholesterolemia. While saffron has the potential for eye health, its effects on lens lesions remain understudied. This study aimed to investigate the effect of saffron on the lens changes in atherosclerotic-induced New Zealand white rabbits (NZWR). Thirty-five NZWRs were subjected to four to eight weeks of high-cholesterol diet to induce atherosclerosis, resulting in cataractous lens changes. The rabbits were categorised randomly into three groups: normal diet group, pre-treated group and treated group. The pre-treated group was divided into early atherosclerosis(HC4) and established atherosclerosis (HC8). The saffron-treated group was fed with the HCD diet followed by saffron treatment of 50mg/kg/day (TG450, TG840) and 100mg/kg/day (TG4100, TG8100) of saffron ethanolic extract (SEE) respectively. The normal diet group was given a normal diet over the 8 weeks. After completing the 16-week experimental protocol, the NZWR were euthanized, and their lenses were extracted for histopathological evaluation. The pre-treated group exhibited cataractous lens changes of grade 2, characterized by increased homogenisation, swollen lens fibers, and intracellular vacuolisation. Interestingly, these cataract changes showed a positive trend from grade 2 to grade 1 post-treatment with SEE. In the saffron-treated group, vacuoles and pinkish homogenised areas were reduced. Additionally, a uniform layer of anterior epithelium and decreased non-swollen lens fibers indicated significant cataract lesion improvement. The normal diet group displayed minimal to zero cataractous changes (Grade 0). HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of crocin, crocetin, and picocrocin in the saffron ethanolic extract, with peak absorptions at 440nm (12.817min), 440nm (1.620min), and 254nm (6.553min) respectively. The phytochemical screening of saffron ethanolic extract was conducted and showed the presence of phytochemical compounds including saponins, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids. The positive effects on lenses in the TG groups could be due to crocin and crocetin, bioactive components of saffron, and its phytochemical compounds. This study highlights saffron's potential in managing cataract-induced conditions, emphasizing the importance of further research for its full therapeutic potential in cataract management.

The study has tried to find out the impact of fuel subsidy on government poverty alleviation policies. Successive governments in Nigeria have announced reduction in the amount of subsidy it is paying on petroleum products persistently. The study used qualitative data in its investigation. The study found out that fuel subsidy removal had both positive and negative impact on the governments’ poverty alleviation policies. The study recommends that government should put adequate measures on ground in order to ensure that fuel subsidy removal do not have adverse effect on its poverty alleviation policies because poverty alleviation policies are essentially tools in addressing the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

In the present study, eight reinforced concrete slabs divided into four groups with two slabs per group were fabricated and tested under impact load, replacing their aggregate with 0%, 4%, 8%, and 16% of polyethylene terephthalate) PET). During the preparation process, PET materials increased the workability of fresh concrete by up to 16% and decreased the density by 9%. The compressive strength decreased by about 11.7%, 15.7%, and 19.9% using 4%, 8%, and 16% of PET, respectively. Splitting strength decreased by 7.2%, 17.4%, and 20.3% using 4%, 8%, and 16% of PET, respectively. Failure mode and deflection amplitude results showed that PET delayed the first cracks and reduced the crack lengths and width and crack spreading at failure. Also, impact resistance enhanced at the first crack and ultimate load stages when PET was used compared to normal concrete. The maximal and minimal displacement decreased with increasing PET proportion to 8% and 16%. The slabs were modeled using the finite element program SAP2000 with 4-node shell elements. The finite element (FE) analysis showed a similar deflection response as those experimentally obtained for all slabs. The deflection obtained by FE was less, about 15.5% and 19%, compared with all slabs experimentally tested except slab G2-2, which showed a higher deflection of about 16.3%.

Background: Pooled procurement is key to managing drug spending amid rising healthcare costs, but conclusive evidence on its sustained impact is lacking, driven by market competition. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the trends and factors influencing the price changes of drugs awarded for pooled procurement systems utilizing a drug price index analysis. Methods: This retrospective study involved a review of secondary data on public pooled procurement of drugs in Malaysia. Drugs were selected through purposive sampling and focused on eight therapeutic subgroups that showed significant patterns of expenditure and consumption. The observed data are retrieved from centralized contracts that were managed through a tendering process spanning from 2010 to 2021. A price index was computed to assess fluctuations in pharmaceutical pricing and market competition. To assess the influence of potential variables on market competition, quantified through the drug price index, a multiple linear regression analysis was utilized. The variables studied include product age, quantity index, bidding periods, therapeutic subgroups, and market competition elements such as types and number of competing products, dosage form, and types of procurements. The significance level was set at p