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Wellbeing of international students is an extensively explored topic in international education discourses. A plethora of research has been devoted to general wellbeing of international students. Nevertheless, little is known about international students' spiritual wellbeing which can be pivotal to their adaptation to the new environment. In the context of New Zealand higher education, utilizing an intrinsic single case study design, this study examined spiritual wellbeing experienced by Indian international students. Phenomenographic interviews were conducted with 13 Indian students who were studying management courses at postgraduate level in an institute of technology in a North Island city of New Zealand. Data analysis generated three dimensions (spiritual cognition, spiritual practice, spiritual efficacy) of spiritual wellbeing which were influenced by four strategies of adaptation (connection, isolation, accommodation, integration). This study provided new insights into the experiences of international students which may influence international education in the long run.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity so, power electronic converter research and development is necessary to provide high power, low cost, as well as efficient methods for EV battery charging. Two kinds of EV chargers exist i.e. on-board and off-board. However, off-board chargers have to be utilized for DC rapid and ultra-quick charging to reduce EV volume and weight significantly. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art literature on power electronics converter systems for both AC-DC and DC-DC power stages for off-board chargers, which interface with the utility grid, PV systems, and EVs. In addition to the novel topologies of AC-DC rectifiers and DC-DC converters, the control schemes of AC-DC rectifiers and DC-DC converters are also explained in this manuscript. Comparisons are made regarding their topologies, isolation, power & voltage ranges, efficiency, bi-directional power capabilities, control variables, advantages, and disadvantages.

Fresh produce is traditionally labeled with plastic price lookup (PLU) stickers that are attached to the produce surface using edible glue. However, both the stickers and glue are environmental contaminants, and the stickers can still easily detach from the produce surface during handling and disrupt traceability. An alternative method of labeling, the CO2 laser-labeling technology (LLT), has been gaining attention in recent years. However, engraving Quick Response (QR) code using LLT is unique, and the performance of this technology varies from produce item to produce item, and information on its effects on postharvest quality, microbial safety, and economic feasibility has not been reported. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of laser-labeling technology on (1) postharvest quality, (2) microbial safety, and (3) economic analysis of this technology. Three horticultural crops, ‘Red Delicious’ apple (Malus pumila), green bell pepper (Capsicum annuum), and cucumber (Cucumis sativus) were procured from a local grocery store. Each produce was engraved with a Quick Response (QR) code or 6-digit alphanumerical (text) code using the commercially available Trotec Speedy 300 CO2 laser engraver, followed by the application of edible wax. Fresh weight loss for laser-printed produce was higher compared to controls, but no difference in visual quality ratings was observed. The laser-labeled produce was assessed for microbial contamination by artificially inoculating rifampicin-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) log10 6 CFU/mL to the labeled fruit. The results showed that the population of rifampicin-resistant E. coli was statistically higher in all three products labeled with text code compared to the nontreated controls. The QR-coded treatments were similar to the controls. The wax application did not affect the microbial attachment on the laser-labeled produce. The CO2 laser labeling technology has the potential for industrial application.

Maryam Aleissa,1,2 Ernesto Drelichman,1 Jasneet Singh Bhullar1 1Department of Surgery, Ascension Providence Hospital-Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Southfield, MI, USA; 2College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Jasneet Singh Bhullar, Program Director of Colorectal Surgery Fellowship, Clinical Assistant Professor WSUCOM/MSUCHM, Department of Surgery, Ascension Providence Hospital-Michigan State University/College of Human Medicine, Southfield, MI, USA, Email DrjsBhullar@gmail.comIntroduction: Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) has emerged as a viable option in patients with fecal incontinence who do not respond to conservative care. Technology has significantly progressed over the years. The current InterStimTM device is compatible with MRI, lasts for many years, and is performed using a minimally invasive technique, using mild sedation and local anesthesia. The precise mechanism of action remains unknown, and there is increasing interest in expanding the indications for the management of digestive diseases. There is now an increasing interest in brain neuromodulator devices, which may enable physicians to visit a larger number of patients simultaneously.Case Presentation: We present a case report of a patient with fecal incontinence (FI) who failed to respond to conservative management. The patient also had an occipital device for cluster headaches. The FI symptoms improved significantly with InterStimTM and there was no interaction with another device.Discussion: InterStimTM may be safely integrated with other neuromodulators. Additional research is required to determine the safety and benefit of InterStimTM implantation with other neuromodulators devices.Keywords: neuromodulators, fecal incontinence, sacral nerve stimulator

Abstract Background Previous literature on cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) suggests that the incidence, rate of metastasis, and tumour severity of cSCC are higher in immunosuppressed patients than in immunocompetent patients. However, current literature lacks an extensive comparison of cSCC clinical characteristics and outcomes in immunosuppressed patients. Objectives We compared cSCC tumour characteristics and disease‐related outcomes to help guide the clinical management of immunosuppressed patients. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of histopathologic and clinical data from 935 cSCC cases (19.5% immunosuppressed) from the Mayo Clinic. Results Immunosuppression was associated with younger age (69.3 vs. 74.8 years old, p

Fresh produce is traditionally labeled with plastic Price LookUp (PLU) stickers that are environmental contaminants and can easily detach during handling and disrupt traceability. The CO2 laser-labeling technology (LLT), an alternate method of produce labeling, has been gaining attention. However, the performance of this technology varies by produce, and consumer perception and acceptability remain understudied. The study evaluated consumers' perception and acceptability of the laser-labeled apple fruit that were purchased locally, laser-printed with a QR code, and coated with edible wax. A consumer study (N = 75) was conducted using 1) Apple with QR-code, 2) Apple with PLU plastic sticker, and 3) non-labeled control. Respondents received randomized treatment samples and completed questionnaires. The study revealed that QR-code labels were less preferred than sticker labels and no labels. Overall liking, label liking, and purchase intent were significantly lower for QR-code labels. However, after providing information about the QR-code benefits, rankings for all labels became statistically similar. Despite 52 % of respondents preferring QR-code labels for their sustainability benefits, they were less likely to recommend them than sticker labels. Laser labeling technology has the potential for industrial application from the consumers' perspectives, and providing consumer education is crucial for its success.

ABSTRACTSystematic studies on the economic competitiveness of organic farming systems compared to conventional farming systems are particularly lacking in tropical environments. In tropical regions, the evaluation of organic production systems typically concentrates on main cash crops earmarked for export markets. Consequently, crops grown in rotation or in association with these main crops have been largely overlooked, with their contribution to farm profitability is often considered negligible due to perceived challenges in securing premium organic prices. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted an analysis of twelve years of economic data from four long-term farming system comparison trials in tropical regions. Our objective was to delve into the economic competitiveness of both organic and conventional production systems at the system level, considering not only the main cash crops but also the associated and rotational crops. The outcomes of our analysis revealed that in three out of four systems, the gross margins of organic and conventional systems were comparable. In the fourth system, the gross margins of the organic system were 13.13% lower, equivalent to $169.8 per hectare per year compared to the conventional system. Furthermore, the contribution of crops grown in rotation with these main crops remains similar even when premium prices are not obtained. In instances where premium prices for non-cash crops are secured, their profitability can even surpass that of cash crops. Additionally, in the case of agroforestry, companion plantings serve as valuable additions for both dietary and income diversity. These findings suggest that the profitability of an agricultural system is not solely dependent on whether it is organic or conventional but is instead influenced by various system components. The emphasis should shift from a singular focus on main cash crops to a more comprehensive understanding that considers the entire spectrum of crops within a farming system.

This case report highlights a severe eczematous rash manifesting broadly across the scalp, face, and neck of a 54-year-old female following a resolved herpes zoster infection. Notably, such cutaneous reactions post-varicella zoster virus infection, which may present weeks to years after the acute phase, have been documented but remain poorly understood in their pathogenesis. This patient exhibited a blistering rash diagnosed as shingles with overlying cellulitis, initially treated with valacyclovir and cefalexin. Upon returning with a diffuse rash post-treatment, further examination and tests led to a differential diagnosis that most closely aligned with eczema exacerbation with superimposed bacterial infection, confirmed by the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus . Treatment encompassed intravenous vancomycin, ciprofloxacin eye drops, topical hydrocortisone, betamethasone lotion, and gabapentin, leading to substantial improvement. This case underscores the complexity of diagnosing and managing cutaneous reactions post-varicella zoster virus infection and suggests a multimodal treatment approach may yield favorable outcomes.

The impact of air pollution on the world has been highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO), which has contributed to the growth of emission-free and ecologically friendly transportation options such as electric vehicles (EVs). Between 2019 and 2020, EV sales climbed by 43%, and by 2025, 14 million EVs are expected to be sold worldwide. On the other hand, EVs have drawbacks such as expensive batteries, short lifespans, lack of EV dependability, limited driving range, and long charging periods. Integrating renewable energy sources (RESs) such as biomass, solar, and wind power into EV charging infrastructures is gaining popularity. PV solar-powered EV charging has benefits like cheaper fuel costs, easier installation, less demand on the grid for power, and cost savings. Hybrid and on-board charging systems offer benefits such as reduced weight, faster charging, and improved communication protocols. On-board chargers have higher energy transfer but are more expensive and difficult to integrate with charging stations. Off-board charging systems include public, rapid, induction, and home charging stations. Advanced charging management systems can optimize charging to preserve battery life. It is recommended that future research concentrate on the development of sophisticated control algorithms, integration of wireless charging, extension of fast-charging infrastructure, innovation in materials, compatibility with many vehicles, and optimization of grid interface to enhance efficiency and user experience. The charging of electric vehicles in standalone and grid-connected photovoltaic systems is covered in this paper, along with an explanation of the various modes of operation for these systems. There is also a quick explanation of the various kinds of EV chargers, their power capacities, and their specifications. The research and comparisons in this paper are expected to be useful resources for scholars who are interested in learning more about EV charging facilities.

Although evolvability of genes and traits may promote specialization during species diversification, how ecology subsequently restricts such variation remains unclear. Chemosensation requires animals to decipher a complex chemical background to locate fitness-related resources, and thus the underlying genomic architecture and morphology must cope with constant exposure to a changing odorant landscape; detecting adaptation amidst extensive chemosensory diversity is an open challenge. In phyllostomid bats, an ecologically diverse clade that evolved plant visiting from a presumed insectivorous ancestor, the evolution of novel food detection mechanisms is suggested to be a key innovation, as plant-visiting species rely strongly on olfaction, supplementarily using echolocation. If this is true, exceptional variation in underlying olfactory genes and phenotypes may have preceded dietary diversification. We compared olfactory receptor (OR) genes sequenced from olfactory epithelium transcriptomes and olfactory epithelium surface area of bats with differing diets. Surprisingly, although OR evolution rates were quite variable and generally high, they are largely independent of diet. Olfactory epithelial surface area, however, is relatively larger in plant-visiting bats and there is an inverse relationship between OR evolution rates and surface area. Relatively larger surface areas suggest greater reliance on olfactory detection and stronger constraint on maintaining an already diverse OR repertoire. Instead of the typical case in which specialization and elaboration are coupled with rapid diversification of associated genes, here the relevant genes are already evolving so quickly that increased reliance on smell has led to stabilizing selection, presumably to maintain the ability to consistently discriminate among specific odorants-a potential ecological constraint on sensory evolution.

Abstract Our knowledge of vertebrate functional evolution depends on inferences about joint function in extinct taxa. Without rigorous criteria for evaluating joint articulation, however, such analyses risk misleading reconstructions of vertebrate animal motion. Here we propose an approach for synthesizing raycast-based measurements of 3-D articular overlap, symmetry, and congruence into a quantitative “articulation score” for any non-interpenetrating six-degree-of-freedom joint configuration. We apply our methodology to bicondylar hindlimb joints of two extant dinosaurs (guineafowl, emu) and, through comparison with in vivo kinematics, find that locomotor joint poses consistently have high articulation scores. We then exploit this relationship to constrain reconstruction of a pedal walking stride cycle for the extinct dinosaur Deinonychus antirrhopus, demonstrating the utility of our approach. As joint articulation is investigated in more living animals, the framework we establish here can be expanded to accommodate additional joints and clades, facilitating improved understanding of vertebrate animal motion and its evolution.

Background: The preventive role of fluoride in caries control is mainly due to the formation of fluorapatite crystals which are more resistant to acid attack. Glass ionomer cement (GIC), its newer modifications, and certain composites in which fluoride has been incorporated show fluoride release. Aim: This research aims to compare the initial fluoride liberated, the fluoride liberated after recharge, and the mean percentage reduction of modified varieties of GICs along with fluoride-releasing composites. Materials and Methods: Forty specimen blocks of the materials to be tested were divided into 5 groups (n = 8), namely Group 1: Zirconomer (SHOFU), Group 2: GC GOLD Label Hybrid (GC), Group 3: Tetric Prime (Ivoclar), Group 4: Ketac Molar (3M), and Group 5: TE-Econom Plus (Ivoclar). The initial fluoride liberated was measured on the 1st day, after 1 week, and after a fortnight, using a benchtop analyzer and total ionic strength adjustment buffer III analyzer. Then, fluoride application was done with fluoridated dentifrice using the hand brush method, and the samples were rechecked for fluoride release at similar time intervals, i.e. 1, 7, and 15 days. Results: Zirconomer showed significantly higher initial fluoride release. The minimum mass of fluoride was released by TE-Econom. A similar pattern was observed for fluoride liberation after recharge, with Zirconomer showing maximum re-release of fluoride and TE Econom showing maximum reduction in fluoride release after 15 days. Conclusion: Zirconomer exhibited high initial fluoride liberation and fluoride liberation after recharge following topical fluoride application. GC Gold Label Hybrid and Ketac Molar showed the least percentage reduction in the biweekly fluoride liberation which was remarkably lower than Zirconomer. Fluoride-releasing composites showed the least amount of initial fluoride liberation and fluoride liberation after recharge.

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disorder, characterized by low bone mineral density and microarchitectural deterioration of the bone tissue, which increases the susceptibility to fracture. In the past decade, emerging research findings reported the implication of gut microbiota on bone health and osteoporosis pathology. Osteoporotic patients or individuals with a lower bone mineral density exhibit an alteration of the gut microbiota at several taxonomic levels. Additional reports demonstrate that gut microbiota regulates bone metabolism through the modulation of the gut function (mineral availability and absorption, gut integrity), the immune system, and the endocrine system. Thus, based on the vital role of gut microbiota on bone health, it has emerged as a novel therapeutic target for the prevention of bone loss and the treatment of osteoporosis. Microbial-based functional food ingredients, such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and fermented foods, have been developed to alter the gut microbiota composition and function and thus, to provide benefits to the host bone health. Despite promising initial results, microbial-based therapies are still under investigation. Moreover, additional animal studies and clinical trials are needed to understand the interactions between gut microbiota and bone metabolism before further applications.

Abstract Background Primary cutaneous B‐cell lymphoma (PCBCL) is a group of B‐cell lymphomas of the skin containing primary cutaneous follicle centre lymphoma (PCFCL) and marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma/lymphoproliferative disorder (PCMZL), which are indolent, and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, leg type (PCDLBCL‐LT), which is aggressive. Objectives To evaluate treatment outcomes between PCBCL subtypes after treatment with rituximab and to compare the efficacy of intralesional against systemic rituximab in indolent subtypes. Methods A search for patients diagnosed with PCBCL and treated with rituximab (systemic or intralesional) across all Mayo Clinic sites was performed, yielding 39 patients. Results Eight patients had PCFCL (six treated intralesionally and two systemically), 11 had PCMZL (four intralesional, eight systemic with one dual‐treated) and 20 had PCDLBCL‐LT (all systemic). The average age at diagnosis was 62.1 years (SD = 15.1), with average follow‐up of 1852.6 days (SD = 1473.2). 69.2% of all patients treated with any form of rituximab experienced a complete response (100% PCFCL, 81.8% PCMZL and 50% PCDLBCL‐LT). When comparing all three subtypes, a significant difference was seen in overall treatment response (p = 0.022), and progressive disease rates (p = 0.015), but not in retreatment with rituximab (p = 0.440), time to retreatment (p = 0.757), recurrence (p = 0.907) or survival (p = 0.093). In the indolent subtypes, no difference in overall treatment response (p = 1.000), progressive disease rates (p = 1.000), recurrence (p = 0.650), rituximab retreatment (p = 0.650) or time to retreatment (p = 0.724) was observed. Conclusions This study suggests that rituximab, as systemic therapy and intralesional therapy, is effective in the management of PCBCL, and that intralesional therapy should be considered before more aggressive therapy in indolent disease.

Arpit Aggarwal,1 Saakshi Joshi,2 Jasneet S Bhullar3 1Department of Graduate Medical Education-Colorectal Surgery, Ascension Providence Hospital-Michigan State University/College of Human Medicine, Southfield, MI, USA; 2Department of Graduate Medical Education- Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Mclaren- Macomb, Macomb, MI, USA; 3Department of Colorectal Surgery, Ascension Providence Hospital-Michigan State University/College of Human Medicine, Southfield, MI, USACorrespondence: Saakshi Joshi; Jasneet S Bhullar, Email Saakshi.Joshi4@gmail.com; DrjsBhullar@gmail.comAbstract: Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are uncommon neoplasms that occur in various organs, including the integumentary system, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Colonic granular cell tumors are rare and account for less than 0.5% of soft tissue tumors. The gross endoscopic diagnosis of colonic tumors can be challenging due to their submucosal predominance, and advanced endoscopic techniques are necessary for diagnosis and management. We present a right-sided granular cell tumor resected en bloc during colonoscopy and hypothesize that colonic granular cell tumors have a higher affinity for the right colon. The aim of this paper is to review the literature on granular cell tumors of the colon and assess the clinical and pathological characteristics, diagnosis, and management of granular cell tumors of the colon.Keywords: granular cell tumor, colon, submucosal, endoscopic mucosal resection, endoscopic submucosal dissection, case report

Abstract Amidst the global food shortage and the global climate change challenge, there is an urgent need to double food production by 2050. However, the modern crop production methods, including the use of fertilizers and pesticides, have adverse environmental consequences, exacerbating the climate crisis. To address this challenge, a transition to sustainable agriculture is imperative that can harmonize the issue. Biostimulants offer an eco‐friendly solution, especially bacterial biostimulants centred on plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs). These biostimulants hold the promise of offering environmentally sustainable solutions to enhance crop productivity. The adoption of PGPR‐based biostimulants in agriculture has gained significant momentum in agricultural research. PGPRs enhance plant growth through multifaceted mechanisms. This review delves into the various modes of action employed by PGPRs to improve plant growth, including their impact on nutrient availability (such as nitrogen fixation and mineral solubilization) and stress mitigation. In addition, the practical implication of PGPR strains in field research has been discussed extensively. Besides, the review outlines the roadmap for commercializing PGPR‐based biostimulants and discusses the associated challenges and limitations. A balanced perspective on the practical implementation of PGPRs in modern agriculture is presented. Exploration of future strategies and directions rounds out the review, emphasizing the necessity of a comprehensive approach to address research gaps and unlock the full potential of PGPR‐based biostimulants for sustainable agriculture. In conclusion, this review underscores the applicability of PGPR‐based biostimulants as an innovative solution to address the current food crisis in the context of climate change.

Sixteen novel antioxidant peptides from Asian swamp eel (ASE) were identified in previous studies. However, their chemical and cellular antioxidant mechanisms remain unclear. Molecular docking of these peptides with ABTS and DPPH radicals revealed the critical role of hydrogen bonding and Pi–Pi stacking hydrophobic interactions between hydrophobic amino acid residues and free radicals. Residues, such as tryptophan, proline, leucine, and valine, played significant roles in these interactions. All these peptides exhibited notable erythrocyte morphoprotective effects in a model of AAPH-induced oxidative damage of human erythrocytes. Erythrocyte hemolysis was reduced primarily through the modulation of both non-enzymatic (GSH/GSSG) and enzymatic antioxidant systems (SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px) by these peptides. A decrease in levels of MDA, LDH release, and hemoglobin oxidation was observed. Among the peptides, VLYPW demonstrated superior chemical and cellular antioxidant activities, which may be attributed to its higher levels of tyrosine and tryptophan, as well as to its increased hydrophobic amino acid content.

Supercapacitors (SCs) are an emerging energy storage technology with the ability to deliver sudden bursts of energy, leading to their growing adoption in various fields. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of SCs, focusing on their classification, energy storage mechanism, and distinctions from traditional capacitors to assess their suitability for different applications. To investigate the voltage response of SCs, the existing electrical equivalent circuits are further studied. The analysis is carried forward with the parameter of impedance, which has not so far been addressed. Impedance analysis is essential for a better understanding of SCs as capacitors work on alternating source of supply. The paper also highlights the applications of SCs in electric automobiles and charging stations, showcasing their advantages such as fast charging and higher power density compared to traditional capacitors. Additionally, other applications in areas like the military, medicine, and industry are discussed, demonstrating the versatility of SC technology.

The importance of construction automation has grown worldwide, aiming to deliver new machineries for the automation of roads, tunnels, bridges, buildings and earth-work construction. This need is mainly driven by (i) the shortage and rising costs of skilled workers, (ii) the tremendous increased needs for new infrastructures to serve the daily activities and (iii) the immense demand for maintenance of ageing infrastructure. Shotcrete (sprayed concrete) is increasingly becoming popular technology among contractors and builders, as its application is extremely economical and flexible as the growth in construction repairs in developed countries demand excessive automation of concrete placement. Even if shotcrete technology is heavily mechanized, the actual application is still performed manually at a large extend. RoBétArméEuropean project targets the Construction 4.0 transformation of the construction with shotcrete with the adoption of breakthrough technologies such as sensors, augmented reality systems, high-performance computing, additive manufacturing, advanced materials, autonomous robots and simulation systems, technologies that have already been studied and applied so far in Industry 4.0. The paper at hand showcases the development of a novel robotic system with advanced perception, cognition and digitization capabilities for the automation of all phases of shotcrete application. In particular, the challenges and barriers in shotcrete automation are presented and the RoBétArmésuggested solutions are outlined. We introduce a basic conceptual architecture of the system to be developed and we demonstrate the four application scenarios on which the system is designated to operate.

Studies on "hit-and-run" effects by viral proteins are difficult when using traditional affinity precipitation-based techniques under dynamic conditions, because only proteins interacting at a specific instance in time can be precipitated by affinity purification. Recent advances in proximity labeling (PL) have enabled identification of both static and dynamic protein-protein interactions. In this study, we applied a PL method by generating recombinant Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). KSHV, a gammaherpesvirus, uniquely encodes four interferon regulatory factors (IRF-1 to -4) that suppress host interferon responses, and we examined KSHV IRF-1 and IRF-4 neighbor proteins to identify cellular proteins involved in innate immune regulation. PL identified 213 and 70 proteins as neighboring proteins of viral IRF-1 (vIRF-1) and vIRF-4 during viral reactivation, and 47 proteins were shared between the two vIRFs; the list also includes three viral proteins, ORF17, thymidine kinase, and vIRF-4. Functional annotation of respective interacting proteins showed highly overlapping biological roles such as mRNA processing and transcriptional regulation by TP53. Innate immune regulation by these commonly interacting 44 cellular proteins was examined with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and the splicing factor 3B family proteins were found to be associated with interferon transcription and to act as suppressors of KSHV reactivation. We propose that recombinant mini-TurboID-KSHV is a powerful tool to probe key cellular proteins that play a role in KSHV replication and that selective splicing factors have a function in the regulation of innate immune responses.IMPORTANCE Viral protein interaction with a host protein shows at least two sides: (i) taking host protein functions for its own benefit and (ii) disruption of existing host protein complex formation to inhibit undesirable host responses. Due to the use of affinity precipitation approaches, the majority of studies have focused on how the virus takes advantage of the newly formed protein interactions for its own replication. Proximity labeling (PL), however, can also highlight transient and negative effects-those interactions which lead to dissociation from the existing protein complex. Here, we highlight the power of PL in combination with recombinant KSHV to study viral host interactions.