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Conducting construction activities in occupied environments presents a great challenge due to the additional logistical requirements and the presence of the building occupants. The aim of this research is to gather and evaluate the means and methods to successfully plan, manage, and execute construction activities in occupied spaces in an effort to provide consolidated industry tools and strategies for maintaining a schedule and minimizing the impact on the occupants. The methodology of the research utilizes an exploratory approach to gather qualitative data. The data was collected through interviews with industry professionals to identify industry best practices. The semi-structured interviews provided a platform for the documents, lessons learned, and the techniques and strategies used for occupied construction by the construction industry. The information obtained in the interview process identified six themes that are critical to achieving and maintaining quality in occupied construction. These themes of the schedule, cost, customer satisfaction, planning, fire/life safety and utilities, and contractor management are reviewed in detail, and the paper discusses how to manage each element. The analysis and extracted management techniques, procedures and strategies can be used by the construction industry for future projects by focusing on the critical aspects of occupied construction and the manner in which to succeed with it.

The construction industry often falls short of other industries in terms of innovation; overall productivity within the construction industry has remained nearly flat for fifty years. As such, the industry is frequently exploring new technologies with the potential to increase its work efficiency as well as productivity. Mixed Reality (MR), which allows for the blending of real and virtual worlds, is one such technology that has a capability to improve productivity. The aim of this research study is to test MR’s potential as an onsite assembly tool in construction. The study more specifically determined if holographic BIM models, spatially anchored in 1:1 ratio over active construction sites, could provide trades’ sufficient information to assemble and install their work without using paper plans. A controlled experiment was designed to test if the electrical and plumbing components of a mock-bathroom could be installed only with MR. A total of 5 sub-groups, each consisting of two participants, took part in this experiment and the time is taken by each sub-group (i.e. the MR group) to complete the assembly was recorded. This was then compared with the time taken by a similar number of sub-groups (i.e. the Control group) to complete the same assembly using paper plans only. The analysis indicates that on average the MR group took approximately 9% less time as compared to the Control group. Qualitative analysis via a post-exercise questionnaire found several technological limitations that the MR must overcome before it sees widespread implementation as a tool for guiding construction assembly. The post-exercise questionnaire also gathered participants’ perceptions about MR potential in construction. This paper highlights the benefits and limitations of the MR technology in construction along with recommendations for improvement as well as future research.

Abstract Steroid hormones regulate diverse physiological functions such as reproduction, blood salt balance, maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics, response to stress, neuronal function and various metabolic processes. They are synthesized from cholesterol mainly in the adrenal gland and gonads in response to tissue-specific tropic hormones. These steroidogenic tissues are unique in that they require cholesterol not only for membrane biogenesis, maintenance of membrane fluidity and cell signaling, but also as the starting material for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones. It is not surprising, then, that cells of steroidogenic tissues have evolved with multiple pathways to assure the constant supply of cholesterol needed to maintain optimum steroid synthesis. The cholesterol utilized for steroidogenesis is derived from a combination of sources: 1) de novo synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER); 2) the mobilization of cholesteryl esters (CEs) stored in lipid droplets through cholesteryl ester hydrolase; 3) plasma lipoprotein-derived CEs obtained by either LDL receptor-mediated endocytic and/or SR-BI-mediated selective uptake; and 4) in some cultured cell systems from plasma membrane-associated free cholesterol. Here, we focus on recent insights into the molecules and cellular processes that mediate the uptake of plasma lipoprotein-derived cholesterol, events connected with the intracellular cholesterol processing and the role of crucial proteins that mediate cholesterol transport to mitochondria for its utilization for steroid hormone production. In particular, we discuss the structure and function of SR-BI, the importance of the selective cholesterol transport pathway in providing cholesterol substrate for steroid biosynthesis and the role of two key proteins, StAR and PBR/TSO in facilitating cholesterol delivery to inner mitochondrial membrane sites, where P450scc (CYP11A) is localized and where the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone (the common steroid precursor) takes place.

Abstract Background The beneficial actions of exercise training on lipid, glucose and energy metabolism and insulin sensitivity appear to be in part mediated by PGC-1α. Previous studies have shown that spontaneously exercised rats show at rest enhanced responsiveness to exogenous insulin, lower plasma insulin levels and increased skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity. This study was initiated to examine the functional interaction between exercise-induced modulation of skeletal muscle and liver PGC-1α protein expression, whole body insulin sensitivity, and circulating FFA levels as a measure of whole body fatty acid (lipid) metabolism. Methods Two groups of male Wistar rats (2 Mo of age, 188.82 ± 2.77 g BW) were used in this study. One group consisted of control rats placed in standard laboratory cages. Exercising rats were housed individually in cages equipped with running wheels and allowed to run at their own pace for 5 weeks. At the end of exercise training, insulin sensitivity was evaluated by comparing steady-state plasma glucose (SSPG) concentrations at constant plasma insulin levels attained during the continuous infusion of glucose and insulin to each experimental group. Subsequently, soleus and plantaris muscle and liver samples were collected and quantified for PGC-1α protein expression by Western blotting. Collected blood samples were analyzed for glucose, insulin and FFA concentrations. Results Rats housed in the exercise wheel cages demonstrated almost linear increases in running activity with advancing time reaching to maximum value around 4 weeks. On an average, the rats ran a mean (Mean ± SE) of 4.102 ± 0.747 km/day and consumed significantly more food as compared to sedentary controls (P < 0.001) in order to meet their increased caloric requirement. Mean plasma insulin (P < 0.001) and FFA (P < 0.006) concentrations were lower in the exercise-trained rats as compared to sedentary controls. Mean steady state plasma insulin (SSPI) and glucose (SSPG) concentrations were not significantly different in sedentary control rats as compared to exercise-trained animals. Plantaris PGC-1α protein expression increased significantly from a 1.11 ± 0.12 in the sedentary rats to 1.74 ± 0.09 in exercising rats (P < 0.001). However, exercise had no effect on PGC-1α protein content in either soleus muscle or liver tissue. These results indicate that exercise training selectively up regulates the PGC-1α protein expression in high-oxidative fast skeletal muscle type such as plantaris muscle. Conclusion These data suggest that PGC-1α most likely plays a restricted role in exercise-mediated improvements in insulin resistance (sensitivity) and lowering of circulating FFA levels.

Abstract Background The plasma membrane scavenger receptor, SR-BI, mediates the 'selective uptake' process by which cholesteryl esters (CE) from exogenously supplied HDL are taken up by target cells. Recent work suggests that dimer and higher order oligomeric forms of the SR-BI protein are important to this process. SR-BI has been shown to be particularly associated with microvilli and microvillar channels found at the cell surface of steroidogenic cells, and a study with the hormone stimulated adrenal gland has shown impressive changes in the size and complexity of the microvillar compartment as the mass of CE uptake (and accompanying steroidogenesis) fluctuates. In the present study, we examine a cell line in which we overexpress the SR-BI protein to determine if morphological, biochemical and functional events associated with SR-BI in a controlled cell system are similar to those observed in the intact mammalian adrenal which is responsive to systemic factors. Methods Y1-BS1 mouse adrenocortical cells were transiently transfected using rat SR-BI-pcDNA6-V5-His, rat SR-BI-pcDNA6-cMyc-His or control pcDNA6-V5-His vector construct using a CaPO4 precipitation technique. Twenty four hours after transfection, cells were treated with, or without, Bt2cAMP, and SR-BI expression, CE uptake, and steroidogenesis was measured. SR-BI dimerization and cell surface architectural changes were assessed using immunoelectron microscopic techniques. Results Overexpression of the scavenger receptor protein, SR-BI, in Y1-BS1 cells results in major alterations in cell surface architecture designed to increase uptake of HDL supplied-CEs. Changes include 1 the formation of crater-like erosions of the surface with multiple double membraned channel structures lining the craters, and 2 dimerized formations of SR-BI lining the newly formed craters and associated double membraned channels. Conclusion These data show that overexpression of the scavenger receptor protein, SR-BI (accompanied by suitable hormone treatment and lipoproteins) in susceptible mammalian cells – is associated with increased cholesterol uptake and SR-BI dimerization within a much enlarged and architecturally complex microvillar compartment. These changes duplicate the structural, biochemical and functional changes related to the uptake of HDL CEs normally signaled by the action of ACTH on intact adrenal tissue.

Abstract High fructose feeding causes diet-induced alterations of lipid metabolism and decreased insulin sensitivity, hallmark of which is a rapid and profound hypertriglyceridemia. One of the mechanisms that contribute to serum hypertriglyceridemia in this model is suppression of hepatic PPARα. HMG-CoA inhibitors, which reduce serum triglycerides in these animals, also elevate/restore hepatic PPARα. Previously we demonstrated that two known lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase inhibitors reversed diet-induced hypertriglyceridemia in this model and that reversal of certain inflammatory markers in the liver correlated with the metabolic benefit. In this paper we extended these studies by examining the impact of these compounds on expression of PPARα, both at the level of transcription and expression. Our data show that diet-induced suppression of hepaic PPARα is reversed upon treatment with lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase compounds. We then tested one of these compounds, BW-755c, over a range of doses from 10 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg to establish a dose-response relationship with the reduction of serum hypertriglyceridemia in this model. These experiments support the concept of using anti-inflammatory medications as one method to correct metabolic dysfunction.

Objective: To compare the relative efficacy of Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) versus ultrasound (USG) in detection of obstructive jaundice. Study Design: Prospective Cohort study. Setting: Department of Radiology, Pakistan Air Force Hospital, Islamabad. Period: September 2023 to March 2024. Methods: A total of 144 consecutive patients, irrespective of age and gender, with clinical and laboratory features of obstructive jaundice that were referred to the radiology department for further evaluation were included. All patients underwent USG followed by MRCP, and their findings were compared using surgery/histopathology/ERCP as the gold standard for the final diagnosis. Results: This study enrolled 144 patients with obstructive jaundice, split into two age groups: 18-50 years (47.22%) and 51-89 years (52.77%). The gender distribution includes 78 males (54.16%) and 66 females (45.83%). Common symptoms were jaundice (27.08%), weight loss (26.38%), abdominal pain (23.61%), and fever (22.91%). Among the patients, 65.28% were diagnosed with positive obstructive jaundice. Diagnostic comparison between ultrasound (USG) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) showed MRCP's superior sensitivity (100%), specificity (90.91%), positive predictive value (96.67%), negative predictive value (100%), and diagnostic accuracy (97.50%) compared to USG. Conclusion: Obstructive jaundice slightly affects older adults more than younger individuals and shows a slight male predominance. The symptoms vary, necessitating comprehensive diagnostic approaches. MRCP outperforms USG in all diagnostic metrics, establishing it as a more reliable tool for accurately detecting obstructive jaundice. This underscores the need for accurate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to manage this condition effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction industry has been strongly embracing innovation and technology in the past few years. Along with emerging technologies, many entrepreneurs have started to play a vital role in this process by providing solutions for specific problems in the construction sector through startups. However, the development of a construction technology (Contech) startup and the factors affecting its success are still unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate critical success factors and risks of Contech startups by utilizing the systematic approach of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Forty-five (45) articles were included and analysed, and a total of 18 critical success factors were identified under (i) organizational capability, (ii) market strategy, and (iii) ecosystem engagement categories. Additionally, five (5) factors were presented under the risk factors category. The results showed that business model innovation, entrepreneurial support organization, founding team's prior professional experience, and collaboration and inter-organizational learning, while uncertainty and marketing are the most highlighted risk factors in the selected articles. The study's findings make a valuable addition to the existing body of knowledge, as they address the gap in understanding the factors and risks that contribute to the success of Contech startups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of X-rays in detecting osteoarthritis (OA) in comparison to MRI. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: The Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi. Period: August, 2023 to March, 2024. Methods: Total 350 patients consented to clinical interviews, physical examinations, standing radiographs, and MRIs. Standing, semi-flexed posteroanterior radiographs of the knees were obtained with proper alignment to accurately detect joint space narrowing. Manual measurements of joint space width were conducted by a blinded orthopedic surgeon using the Kellgren-Lawrence grading system. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 23, with frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations calculated for relevant variables. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed using a 2x2 table. Results: Of the 350 patients, 61.1% were up to 60 years old, and 38.9% were over 60 years old. Among those with positive MRI results, 70.1% also had a positive X-ray, while 29.6% did not. Cohen's Kappa was 0.377, indicating fair to moderate agreement. Sensitivity was 54.3%, specificity 82.4%, positive predictive value 70.1%, and negative predictive value 70.4%, with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 70.3%. Conclusion: X-rays demonstrated high specificity and moderate predictive values, but low sensitivity, suggesting that some OA cases may be missed if relying solely on X-rays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixed reality (MR) technology has the potential to enhance building construction inspection and monitoring processes, improving efficiency, accuracy, and safety. This systematic review intends to investigate the present research status on MR in building construction inspection and monitoring. The review covers existing literature and practical case studies that scrutinize current technologies, their applications, challenges, and future trends in this rapidly evolving field. This article follows a methodology known as Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) to enhance the credibility and reliability of research. The study includes articles published between 2018 and 2023, identified through a comprehensive search of Scopus and Google Scholar databases. Findings indicate that MR technology has the potential to enhance visualization, communication, and collaboration between stakeholders, as well as increase efficiency and accuracy in inspection and monitoring tasks by providing real-time interactable data and quick decision-making among the project team members. The adoption of MR technology in the construction industry will not only boost its effectiveness but also improve its productivity. However, limitations such as high costs, technical issues, and user acceptance pose challenges to the widespread adoption of MR in building construction. Future research should address these limitations and investigate MR's long-term impact on building construction inspection and monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat, a primary staple food in numerous countries, is extensively cultivated worldwide due to its adaptability. It constitutes a significant portion of the global calorie intake, accounting for approximately 20% of the total. Wheat cultivation spans a vast area of 215 million hectares, resulting in a worldwide production of 772 million metric tons. One of the major challenges in wheat breeding is the lengthy process of selecting homozygous genotypes. However, a valuable technique called speed breeding has been developed to address this bottleneck. Speed breeding significantly reduces the time required for variety development and selection, allowing the production of 5 to 6 wheat generations per year. Despite the accelerated growth achieved through speed breeding, the size of wheat plants remains shorter compared to traditional methods, although biomass has a positive correlation with plant yield. Biomass accumulation is influenced by the activity of the vital enzyme RuBisCO. An experiment was conducted on five wheat genotypes under normal sunlight and controlled conditions using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to evaluate RuBisCO activity. The experiment followed a factorial, completely randomized design with three replications. Various traits, including plant height, flag leaf area, spike length, stomata size, chlorophyll content, biomass, and 1000-grain weight, were measured and showed significant differences among the genotypes and treatments. Proteomics analysis using SDS-PAGE revealed variability in RuBisCO protein expression between normal and controlled plants. Light intensity was also measured for sunlight and the speed of breeding chamber lights. The findings highlight the critical role of light intensity, which remains an indispensable factor in studies about biomass-related research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]