Search

The main purpose of this paper is to study η-Ricci–Yamabe solitons (η-RYS) and * {*} -η-Ricci–Yamabe solitons ( * {*} -η-RYS) in Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu n-manifolds (briefly, ( LPK ) n {(\mathrm{LPK})_{n}} ). We study the curvature condition R . S = 0 {R.S=0} and the cyclic parallel Ricci tensor in ( LPK ) n {(\mathrm{LPK})_{n}} admitting η-RYS. Furthermore, we study M-projectively flat and quasi-M-projectively flat Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifolds admitting * {*} -η-RYS. Finally, we give two examples of Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifolds admitting η-RYS and * {*} -η-RYS to verify some of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to characterize a Riemannian 3-manifold M 3 equipped with a semi-symmetric metric ξ -connection ∇ ˜ with ρ -Einstein and gradient ρ -Einstein solitons. The existence of a gradient ρ -Einstein soliton in an M 3 admitting ∇ ˜ is ensured by constructing a non-trivial example, and hence some of our results are verified. By using standard tensorial technique, we prove that the scalar curvature of (M 3 , ∇ ˜) satisfies the Poisson equation Δ R = 4 (2 − σ − 6 ρ) ρ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming and greenhouse gas emissions pose severe threats to environmental sustainability. A sustainable environment is a prerequisite for long‐term socioeconomic growth and human survival. Green technology is brought about by a country's economic and financial openness, and education provides knowledge to the public and labor, contributing to environmental sustainability. Thus, this research aims to unveil the liaison between human capital, trade openness, and environmental quality for Russia, Brazil, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) countries from 1998 to 2018. Several econometric methods, including the Driscoll–Kraay standard errors and the Dumitrescu–Hurlin causality approaches, reveal long‐run and causal relationships among the modelled indicators. The Driscoll–Kraay standard error results show that human capital is negatively related to carbon dioxide emissions (CO2 emissions). Imposing high tariffs and excise duties, changing tax structures, discouraging the inflow of polluted commodities, and encouraging green trade can help BRICS combat high environmental pollution. The results show that a one‐point increase in human capital in models 1 and 2 can reduce CO2 emissions by 1.5279 and 0.1538 points, respectively. In contrast, a 1% growth in trade can lead to a rise in CO2 emissions of 0.3731% and 0.2384%, respectively. Similarly, financial development and energy consumption result in high CO2 emissions in the long run. Moreover, a feedback effect of the human capital index on CO2 emissions is discovered. As a result of the findings, the government and responsible authorities should provide financial support and encourage investments in the region's energy‐resourceful and sustainable green projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Green solvents (GSs) has gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential as safer and more sustainable alternatives to traditional organic solvents. Solvents are used in a wide range of applications, from industrial processes to everyday products. Solvent emissions and losses can have a significant impact on the environment and human health, which is why many initiatives are being undertaken to get rid of or switch to eco-friendly alternatives. A key area of green chemistry that led to the concept of “green” solvents is the development of alternative solvents that are less toxic and more environmentally friendly than traditional organic solvents. The advantages of using green solvents over conventional ones are their environmental friendliness, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and simplicity of preparation. Different sample preparation techniques have successfully utilized green solvents to offer a sustainable separation media for the extraction of a variety of inorganic and organic compounds which are crucial for research in environmental samples. Recent developments in green analytical chemistry (GAC) have focused on how to prepare and use samples using environmentally sustainable solvents. The current study covers the advance and currently used green solvents with an emphasis on environmentally friendly sample preparation methods. This review aims to briefly summarize the current state of knowledge about the use of green solvents particularly ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents and switchable solvents (SSs) with the perspective of GAC in sample preparation methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Miniaturised piezoelectric devices are emerging energy harvesting sources that are appropriate for various implantable and wearable applications. However, these piezoelectric devices exhibit considerable internal resistance due to their internal impedance, which leads to self-start and low-energy conversion failures. This paper describes a dual-stage boost converter circuit by facilitating self-powering features and boosting the low voltage harvested by the piezoelectric devices into dc. The proposed circuit comprises conversion stages of ac-dc and dc-dc in Stages I and II, respectively. In addition, the proposed circuit does not require employing the auxiliary circuits to generate the train pulses by triggering the bidirectional switches to envelop the current being stored in Stage II and kick-start the self-powered circuit for piezoelectric energy harvesting systems. Theoretical assumptions and control strategies were tested and verified with ideal and impedance input sources. The proposed circuit could convert a low voltage of 3 Vac into 19 Vdc. The maximum attained output power by the proposed circuit was 3.61 mW. The outcome depicted that the proposed circuit boosted the low voltage and outperformed the existing literature circuits in terms of output voltage and power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the detailed modelling of a vibration-based miniature piezoelectric device (PD) and the analysis modes of operation and control of a voltage doubler boost converter (VDBC) circuit to find the PD's optimal operating conditions. The proposed VDBC circuit integrates a conventional voltage doubler (VD) circuit with a step-up DC-DC converter circuit in modes 1–4, while a non-linear synchronisation procedure of a conventional boost converter circuit is employed in modes 5–6. This integration acted as the voltage boost circuit without utilising duty cycles and complex auxiliary switching components. In addition, the circuit does not require external trigger signals to turn on the bidirectional switches. This facilitates the operation of VDBC circuit at very low AC voltage (Vac ≥ 0.5 V). Besides this, the electrical characteristics of VDBC circuit's input (i.e., PD) perfectly concurs with the studied testing scenarios using impedance power sources (mechanical shaker). Firstly, the proposed circuit which can rectify the PD's output was tested at both constant input voltage with varying excitation frequency and constant excitation frequency with varying input voltage. Next, a small-scale solar battery was charged to validate the feasibility of the performance of the proposed VDBC circuit. The proposed circuit achieved a maximum output voltage of 11.7 Vdc with an output power of 1.37 mW. In addition, the rectified voltage waveform is stable due to the sminimisation of the ripples. In addition, the performance of VDBC circuit was verified by comparing the achieved results with previously published circuits in the literature. The results show that the proposed VDBC circuit outperformed existing units as described in the literature regarding output voltage and power. The developed rectifier circuit is suitable for various real-life applications such as energy harvesting and battery charging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with the investigations of a Kenmotsu manifold satisfying certain curvature conditions endowed with - η -Ricci solitons. First we find some necessary conditions for such a manifold to be φ -Einstein. Then, we study the notion of - η -Ricci soliton on this manifold and prove some significant results related to this notion. Finally, we construct a nontrivial example of three-dimensional Kenmotsu manifolds to verify some of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electric power quality has become a serious concern for electric utilities and end users owing to its undesirable effects on system capabilities and performance. Harmonic levels on power systems have been pronounced to a greater extent with the continuous growth in the application of solid-state and reactive power compensatory devices. Harmonics are the key constituents that are mainly responsible for power quality deterioration. Power system harmonics need to be correctly estimated and filtered to increase power quality. This research work focuses on accurate estimation of power system harmonics with the proposed hybrid weighted least-square multi-verse optimizer (WLS–MVO) based framework. Multi-verse optimizer replicates the phenomenon of the formation of new universes as described by multi-verse theory to solve complex real-world optimization problems. The proposed WLS–MVO framework is tested and validated by estimating the harmonics present in multiple test signals with different noise levels. Amplitudes and phases of harmonics present in the polluted signal were estimated, and the framework computational time was compared with the previously developed technique's results which are reported in the literature. There was 80% reduction in computational time and 82% improvement in terms of accuracy in estimating harmonics using WLS–MVO as compared to previously developed techniques. The performance of the developed framework is further validated by estimating the harmonics present in the real-time voltage and current waveforms obtained from axial flux permanent magnet generator (AFPMSG), uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and light-emitting diode (LED). The purposed technique technique outperforms the already-developed techniques, in terms of accuracy and computational time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we characterize three-dimensional Riemannian manifolds M 3 admitting Ricci–Yamabe solitons (RYSs). It is proved that if an M 3 endowed with a semi-symmetric metric ζ -connection admits an RYS, then the scalar curvature of M 3 satisfies the Poisson equation Δ r = 8 (2 α − 3 β − ϱ) β , where α , β ∈ ℝ and β ≠ 0. We also discuss the existence of gradient RYS in Riemannian setting. Finally, we construct a nontrivial example of three-dimensional Riemannian 3-manifolds admitting RYS to prove some of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the era of globalization, information and communication technology (ICT) plays a crucial role in economic development and environmental sustainability. ICT enables economies to interact with each other around the globe, and the current fast ICT mode makes globalization a reality in today's technological world. However, its abrupt rise in installation and operation may increase energy demand and environmental degradation. Thus, this study embarks upon the role of ICT and financial development in shaping a low-carbon environment for sixty Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) economies using balanced panel data spanning 1990–2018. This study adopts the Driscoll–Kraay standard error long-run estimation technique and the Dumitrescu–Hurlin panel causality approach. The results reveal that ICT, financial development, and globalization are negatively related to CO2 emissions; however, economic growth and electricity consumption stimulate CO2 emissions, threatening environmental sustainability. Interestingly, a U-shaped relationship is observed between economic growth and CO2 emissions for BRI economies. Moreover, the causality results reveal bidirectional causal relationships between ICT, financial development and globalization with CO2 emissions. The findings urge the adoption of advanced ICT in the industrial sector for efficient energy use and socioeconomic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we characterize m-dimensional ζ -conformally flat L P -Kenmotsu manifolds (briefly, (L P K) m ) equipped with the Ricci–Yamabe solitons (RYS) and gradient Ricci–Yamabe solitons (GRYS). It is proven that the scalar curvature r of an (L P K) m admitting an RYS satisfies the Poisson equation Δ r = 4 (m − 1) δ { β (m − 1) + ρ } + 2 (m − 3) r − 4 m (m − 1) (m − 2) , where ρ , δ (≠ 0) ∈ R . In this sequel, the condition for which the scalar curvature of an (L P K) m admitting an RYS holds the Laplace equation is established. We also give an affirmative answer for the existence of a GRYS on an (L P K) m . Finally, a non-trivial example of an L P -Kenmotsu manifold (L P K) of dimension four is constructed to verify some of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new artificial hummingbird algorithm (AHA)-based framework to investigate the optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) problem which is a critical problem in the capacity of power systems. This paper aims to improve the performance of power systems by minimizing two distinct objective functions namely active power loss in the transmission network and total voltage deviation at the load buses subjected to various constraints within multiobjective framework. The proposed AHA-based framework maps the inherent flight and foraging capabilities exhibited by hummingbirds in nature to determine the best settings for the control variables (i.e., voltages at generation buses, the tap positions of on-load tap-changing transformers (OLTCs) and the size of switchable shunt VAR compensators) to minimize the overall objective functions. A multiobjective optimal reactive power dispatch framework (MO-ORPD) considering renewable energy sources (RES) and load uncertainties is also proposed to minimize the individual objectives simultaneously. The competency and robustness of the proposed AHA-based framework is validated and tested on IEEE 14 bus and IEEE 39 bus test systems to solve the ORPD problem. Eventually, the results are compared with other well-known optimization techniques in the literature. Box plots and statistical tests using SPSS are performed and validated to justify the effectiveness of the proposed framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Level of toxic heavy metal concentration like lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) in thirty-six soft and hard organs and their impact on lipid profile of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Catla catla fish species inhibiting in Tanda Dam reservoir were investigated. The heavy metal concentrations in water, sediment, and fish of the different regions in the reservoir were determined with atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Lipid profile was carried out by AOAC official methods. The results showed that Pb was dominant among all the heavy metals in six organs, and its maximum concentration of Pb (22.5 mg kg-1 and 32.9 mg kg-1) was observed in scales in Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and tail of Catla catla, respectively. The maximum concentrations of Cd were observed in the head, scales, fins, and gills of Catla catla. The bioaccumulation of heavy metals was significantly different at (p ≤ 0.01) within the organs and between the fish species. The lipid concentration was minimum in those organs where the concentrations of heavy metals were maximum. It is clear from the findings that heavy metal accumulation reduces the lipid content of fish. It is inevitable to monitor the Tanda Dam reservoir to safeguard human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper deals with the study of Z-symmetric manifolds (Z S) n admitting certain cases of Schouten tensor (specifically: Ricci-recurrent, cyclic parallel, Codazzi type and covariantly constant), and investigate some geometric and physical properties of the manifold. Moreover, we also study (Z S) 4 spacetimes admitting Codazzi type Schouten tensor. Finally, we construct an example of (Z S) 4 to verify our result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This critique evaluates a letter to the editor discussing prognostic factors in primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), focusing on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)-to-lymphocyte ratio. While the letter provides valuable insights, limitations including reliance on a single-center dataset, lack of consideration for potential confounders, insufficient contextualization within existing literature, and limited discussion of clinical implications are identified. Addressing these limitations is crucial for enhancing the relevance and applicability of the findings in PCNSL management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The letter to the editor discusses a research article on the effect of continuous hypertonic saline infusion on clinical outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury. The authors express their gratitude to the researchers for their valuable findings but raise concerns about confounding factors that were not adequately addressed in the study. They also highlight the importance of considering surgical procedures in shaping patient outcomes. While the article provides valuable information, the authors suggest that future studies should address these concerns to improve the clarity and clinical relevance of the findings. [Extracted from the article]

This letter to the editor discusses a recent paper on the long-term outcome of CT-guided radiofrequency ablation as a treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. The authors commend the comprehensive design of the study but note that the discussion of comorbidities was somewhat neglected. They emphasize the importance of considering conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which are often associated with trigeminal neuralgia. The authors also suggest comparing the results of radiofrequency ablation with other existing interventions and identifying cases of drug-resistant trigeminal neuralgia. They hope that future research will consider these aspects to enhance patient care in this area. [Extracted from the article]

In the present article, some geometric and physical properties of M G (Q E) n were investigated. Moreover, general relativistic viscous fluid M G (Q E) 4 spacetimes with some physical applications were studied. Finally, through a non-trivial example of M G (Q E) 4 spacetime, we proved its existence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue fever is a common viral disease presenting with a flu-like illness and bleeding manifestations. Although abdominal pain is a common presenting symptom of Dengue fever, gastrointestinal perforations are extremely rare. To date, only ten cases of gastrointestinal perforation have been reported in association with Dengue fever. We report a case of ileal perforation in a young patient who was diagnosed with Dengue fever. The disease was diagnosed with an x-ray abdomen and was treated with surgical exploration. The perforation was brought out as an ileostomy. Although rare, perforation peritonitis is highly fatal if left untreated. This must be considered early in the differentials of a Dengueinfected patient with signs of peritonitis. More studies are required to see into the patho-physiology of this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medications are being widely used as dietary supplements worldwide. A large percentage of the population uses medicinal herbs to treat certain diseases or symptoms. This study is aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the general population. This cross-sectional study was carried out in Makkah Province from November 30th to December 31st, 2021. Data were collected and analyzed using an online questionnaire, and the survey questionnaire was validated. Response to questions was analyzed with the SPSS program. A total of 391 participants participated. Most participants were male (54.7%), and the average age was between 35-44 years old. 78.6% had college or higher education, and 66% of the participants were from Makkah. Only 13.9% of the participants said they have very good knowledge of herbal medicine. In terms of attitude, more than 91% of the respondents agreed that herbal drugs have some value in treating diseases. 65% of the participants get their knowledge from social media and the internet; the rest are about friends, TV, the medical journal, and others. the study showed that most respondents had low experience in herbal medicine and relied heavily on the internet for information. On the other hand, there was a positive attitude toward using herbal medicine. The government and Food and Drug Administration must encourage institutions to devote functionally dedicated programs and activities to enhance public awareness of herbal medicine use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the properties of ϵ -Kenmotsu manifolds if its metrics are * η -Ricci-Yamabe solitons. It is proven that an ϵ -Kenmotsu manifold endowed with a * η -Ricci-Yamabe soliton is η -Einstein. The necessary conditions for an ϵ -Kenmotsu manifold, whose metric is a * η -Ricci-Yamabe soliton, to be an Einstein manifold are derived. Finally, we model an indefinite Kenmotsu manifold example of dimension 5 to examine the existence * η -Ricci-Yamabe solitons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukoplakia is an uncommon diagnosis. Patient usually presents with hematuria (visible and non-visible), dysuria, urgency and frequency. Definitive investigation is rigid cystoscopy. Abnormal bladder wall tissue should be resected and biopsies sent for histopathology to confirm the diagnosis. The condition is said to be pre-malignant it is usually advised to do annual cystoscopy with multiple biopsies is to look for any evidence of malignant transformation. Case Report: We present case report of a 64-year-old male presented to the urology clinic with a hematuria. Cystoscopy revealed a 2-cm white lesion on the right side of the urinary bladder. White plaques were also noted covering some areas of the bladder. Transurethral resection of the lesion and biopsy of the white plaques were performed. Pathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of keratinizing squamous metaplasia of the bladder with no evidence of malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus slow decline caused by Tylenchulus semipenetrans deteriorates the quality and quantity of citrus fruit and make it prone for the invasion of other microbes. A survey was carried out for the assessment of nematode population distribution in all 7 Tehsils of district Sargodha (Pakistan) viz: Sargodha, Silanwali, Sahiwal, Shahpur, Bhalwal, Kot Momin and Bhera. Population densities of nematode were assessed in different genera of citrus crop i.e. kinnow, sweet orange, feutral's early, grape fruit and sweet lime, both in healthy and declining orchards. Whitehead and Hemming tray method was used for the isolation of T. semipenetrans which showed that the population was low in declining orchards as compared to the population densities found in healthy orchards. Kinnow was the most infested by nematode with mean population 1161 while sweet orange was the least infested with 595 nematodes, in all localities. Maximum nematode population density in healthy and declining orchards was recorded in Kot Momin that was 2600 and 946 nematodes per 50 ml of soil, respectively. The lowest mean population was recorded in Silanwali with 1200 in healthy and 300 in declining orchards. The assessment of spatial distribution of nematode population would pave foe effective disease management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zearalenone (ZEA) poses severe reproductive toxicity to both humans and animals. Scutellarin has been demonstrated to rescue ZEA-induced apoptosis in mouse ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), but its specific targets remain unclear. In the present study, the potential targets of scutellarin were determined to clarify the mechanisms of scutellarin against ZEA-induced ovarian damage. 287 targets of scutellarin in mouse ovarian GCs were obtained by magnetic nano-probe-based fishing assay and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Wnt5a had the lowest binding free energy with scutellarin at − 8.3 kcal/mol. QRT-PCR and western blot showed that scutellarin significantly increased the Wnt5a and β-catenin expression compared with the ZEA-treated group, and cleaved-caspase-3 expression was significantly increased in the scutellarin-treated group after interfering with the expression of Wnt5a. The affinity constant (K D) of Wnt5a and scutellarin was 1.7 × 10−5 M. The pull-down assay also demonstrated that scutellarin could specifically bind to Wnt5a protein. Molecular docking results showed that scutellarin could form hydrogen bonds with TRY52, GLN56, and SER90 on Wnt5a protein, and western blot assay confirmed SER90 was an important site for the binding. Scutellarin significantly increased Wnt5a and β-catenin expression and decreased cleaved-caspase-3 expression in ovarian tissues of mice. In conclusion, scutellarin exerted anti-apoptotic effects on ZEA-induced mouse ovarian GCs by targeting Wnt5a. [Display omitted] • Scutellarin bound specifically to the SER90 site on the Wnt5a protein. • 25 mg/kg of Scutellarin rescues ZEA-induced mouse ovarian damage. • Scutellarin decreased granulosa cells apoptosis through Wnt5a/β-catenin pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Continuous utilization of antimicrobial drugs in treating infections has led to the development of resistance among various strains of bugs. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in a military hospital in Al-Kharj. Methods: This study is a retrospective study that include collecting the results of bacterial cultures. After collecting the data, an antibiogram was prepared and after that the resistance rates for each bacterium were calculated by subtraction of 100% from the susceptibility rate for each result (Resistance rate= 100% - Susceptibility rate). Results: Acinetobacter baumannii was resistant to most tested antibiotics and Klebsiella pneumonia was resistant to several antibiotics in 2018 and 2019. In the present study, there were a high resistance rate of Klebsiella pneumonia and Acinetobacter baumannii and there were 2 main threats which include Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter and Ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella. Conclusion: It is recommended to increase the awareness of the health care professionals regarding the appropriate prescribing of antibiotics based on antimicrobial resistance rate and to increase the awareness of the public about the wise use of antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study quasi bi-slant submanifolds of a para-Kenmotsu manifold. We obtain the necessary and suficient conditions for integrability of the distributions which are involved in the definition of such manifold. We also prove that the slant distributions which defines a totally umbilical foliation on submanifold of a para-Kenmotsu manifold is either invariant or anti-invariant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cartilage is essential throughout vertebrate life. It starts developing in embryos when osteochondroprogenitor cells commit to chondrogenesis, activate a pancartilaginous program to form cartilaginous skeletal primordia, and also embrace a growth-plate program to drive skeletal growth or an articular program to build permanent joint cartilage. Various forms of cartilage malformation and degeneration diseases afflict humans, but underlying mechanisms are still incompletely understood and treatment options suboptimal. The transcription factor SOX9 is required for embryonic chondrogenesis, but its postnatal roles remain unclear, despite evidence that it is down-regulated in osteoarthritis and heterozygously inactivated in campomelic dysplasia, a severe skeletal dysplasia characterized postnatally by small stature and kyphoscoliosis. Using conditional knockout mice and high-throughput sequencing assays, we show here that SOX9 is required postnatally to prevent growthplate closure and preosteoarthritic deterioration of articular cartilage. Its deficiency prompts growth-plate chondrocytes at all stages to swiftly reach a terminal/dedifferentiated stage marked by expression of chondrocyte-specific (Mgp) and progenitor-specific (Nt5e and Sox4) genes. Up-regulation of osteogenic genes (Runx2, Sp7, and Postn) and overt osteoblastogenesis quickly ensue. SOX9 deficiency does not perturb the articular program, except in loadbearing regions, where it also provokes chondrocyte-to-osteoblast conversion via a progenitor stage. Pathway analyses support roles for SOX9 in controlling TGFβ and BMP signaling activities during this cell lineage transition. Altogether, these findings deepen our current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that specifically ensure lifelong growth-plate and articular cartilage vigor by identifying osteogenic plasticity of growth-plate and articular chondrocytes and a SOX9-countered chondrocyte dedifferentiation/osteoblast redifferentiation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper we study ∈-Kenmotsu 3-manifolds admitting *-conformal η-Ricci solitons. Besides, we study gradient *-conformal η-Ricci solitons on ∈-Kenmotsu 3-manifolds and prove that a gradient *-conformal η-Ricci soliton on an ∈-Kenmotsu 3-manifold is *-conformal η-Einstein if and only if ξf = 0. Finally, the existence of *-conformal η-Ricci soliton in an ∈-Kenmotsu 3-manifold has been proved by a concrete example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We characterize ∊-Kenmotsu manifolds admitting *-conformal η-Ricci solitons. At last, an example of 7-dimension ∊-Kenmotsu manifold is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we have studied η-Ricci solitons in Lorentzian α-Sasakian manifolds satisfying certain curvature conditions. The existence of η-Ricci soliton in a Lorentzian α-Sasakian manifold has been proved by a concrete example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic feedback is the main problem associated with (broadband) active noise control (ANC) in feed-forward configuration. To solve this problem, auxiliary noise is injected into the ANC system to have accurate model of the feedback path. The conventional approaches substantially model the feedback path at the cost of degradation in the noise reduction performance (NRP) and vice versa. Here, we propose a fuzzy logic-based gain scheduling (of auxiliary noise) for online feedback path modeling and neutralization (FBPMN). The fuzzy controller computes the instantaneous gain for auxiliary noise based on two inputs, the first input gives information about modeling status of FBPMN filter while the second input gives information regarding variance of the disturbance signal for the adaptive FBPMN filter. Furthermore, variable step-size (VSS) is used for the adaptation of FBPMN filter that uses a larger value of step-size during modeling (phase) of FBPMN filter for fast adaptation and a smaller value when the feedback path has been (adequately) modeled. Fuzzy gain scheduler together with VSS in FBPMN filter improves both the NRP and feedback path modeling characteristics. Moreover, the proposed method does not require initial offline modeling of the feedback path thereby demonstrating complete online operation. To make the system computationally efficient, a look-up table-based approach is also proposed in this paper. Simulations results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we define Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifolds and study Ricci-pseudosymmetric, Ricci-generalized pseudosymmetric and symmetric conditions to characterize Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifolds. Next, we study Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifolds satisfying the curva- ture condition S · R = 0. Moreover, we study Ricci solitons on Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifolds. Finally, we give an example of a 5-dimensional Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu manifold to verify some results of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multilamellar bodies (MLBs) are produced and secreted by many cell types. In this study, we report the existence and ultrastructure of MLBs that are produced by Leydig cells and identification of telocytes in the testicular interstitium of naked mole rat. This study was performed on both breeder and non-breeder male naked mole rats using light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and morphometric approaches. In the testicular interstitium, the most prominent cells were Leydig cells, which contained numerous lipid droplets (LDs) in the cytoplasm. We found that MLBs were associated with the LDs of Leydig cells and were secreted into the extracellular or interstitial environment via exocytosis. After their release from Leydig cells, MLBs localized to the space between Leydig cells near blood vessels and attached to telocytes. We also identified telocytes in the testicular interstitium, and their cellular extensions were distributed throughout the interstitium. MLBs were aligned along the cellular extensions of telocytes, and membrane-to-membrane contact was observed between the cellular extensions of telocytes and MLBs, suggesting that telocytes may play a role in the transport of MLBs within the interstitial space. No ultrastructural differences were found in Leydig cells, telocytes, or MLBs between breeder and non-breeder testes. However, morphometric analysis revealed a significant difference in the number of MLBs between the breeder and non-breeder animals. Furthermore, both selective autophagy of LDs and non-selective autophagy were observed in Leydig cells. Typical features of macrolipophagy were also observed, as a few LDs were entirely enclosed by a limiting membrane. Remarkably, autophagy may be a key factor in the biogenesis of MLBs and steroid hormone production. The appearance of MLBs in the testicular interstitium of naked mole rats could thus be related to lipid storage and trafficking. • This study reported the presence of MLBs and their association with telocytes in the testicular interstitial tissues of the naked mole rat. • We proposed that telocytes may facilitate the transport of multilamellar bodies to the target cells in the testicular interstitial space. • Remarkably, autophagy may be a key factor in the biogenesis of MLBs and steroid hormone production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study left-invariant cross curvature solitons on Lorentzian three-dimensional Lie groups and classify these solitons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined predictors of mental health treatment among Black men while incarcerated. Participants were 76 individuals who identified as Black Americans and were recruited from a correctional setting. Using secondary data analysis (Shaw, L. B., & Morgan, R. D. (2011). Inmate attitudes toward treatment: Mental health service utilization and treatment effects. Law and Human Behavior, 35(4), 249–261. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10979-010-9233-5.), results indicated that Black men with a mental health diagnosis were more likely than those without a diagnosis to report receiving mental health treatment while incarcerated. Additionally, linear regression analyses indicated that only expectations about treatment (i.e., personal commitment; not therapy fears or history of mental health diagnosis) significantly predicted the current use of mental health treatment. Implications for research and practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The role of autophagy in acrosome and mitochondrial crista formation during turtle spermiogenesis. • Inhibition of autophagy cause morphological defects in acrosome, nucleus and mitochondria. • Autophagy is required for the normal formation of acrosome and mitochondrial cristae during turtle spermiogenesis. Autophagy is a subcellular process that is extensively involved in spermiogenesis. In this study, we observed ultrastructural malformation of acrosome and mitochondrial cristae during the spermiogenesis of Chinese soft-shelled turtle due to the inhibition of autophagy. Autophagy was blocked with 3-MA, and the inhibition of autophagy was confirmed through western blot analysis. The morphological abnormalities of acrosomes and mitochondria were observed under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the early spermiogenesis (Golgi and cap phases), damaged macrovesicle was observed, and its proper expansion over the nucleus failed to be form a normal acrosomal cap. As spermiogenesis proceeded, the malformation of the acrosome in spermatids became more severe. In the late spermiogenesis (acrosomal and maturation phases), defective acrosome with damaged acrosomal membrane that was detached from the nucleus was observed. Along with malformed acrosome, elongation failed nucleus having oval or round shaped morphology was also observed. Moreover, morphological damage to the mitochondrial cristae was observed. Lacuna formation, half and complete loss of cristae were observed in the mitochondria of developing spermatids. We proposed that autophagy is required for normal formation of the acrosome and mitochondrial cristae during turtle spermiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There has been a paradigm shift in tertiary centers from endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) fine-needle aspiration to EUS fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) for tissue acquisition in solid lesions. While data exists on the use of FNB needles in solid pancreatic lesions, very few studies looked at the utility of FNB in solid extrapancreatic lesions. Our aim was to study and compare the technical success and feasibility of EUS-FNB in evaluating solid pancreatic and extrapancreatic lesions using a novel FNB needle. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with solid masses or lesions needing EUS-guided core biopsy at the University of Utah between May 2016 and November 2017. All core biopsies were obtained using an Acquire™Fine Needle Biopsy Device (Boston Scientific Corporation, Natick MA, USA). Rapid on-site evaluation was performed by a boardcertified cytopathologist in all cases. Results One hundred thirty-two patients (87 male) were included. Ninety-nine (73.3%) of the lesions were located in the pancreas. All needle sizes (19 G, 22 G and 25 G) had similar yield. The mean number of passes needed was 2.28±0.7. EUS-FNB of the pancreatic lesions had a diagnostic accuracy of 97.9%, comparable to the 97.2% for the biopsied extra-pancreatic lesions. Only 3 of 132 cases needed re-biopsy at a later date. No immediate adverse events were reported. Conclusion In this large, single-center study, EUS-FNB with a novel Franseen-design needle was proven to be an effective modality for tissue acquisition from both pancreatic and extrapancreatic solid lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria are vital cellular organelles that have the ability to change their shape under different conditions, such as in response to stress, disease, changes in metabolic rate, energy requirements and apoptosis. In the present study, we observed remodelling of mitochondria during spermiogenesis and its relationship with mitochondria-associated granules (MAG). At the beginning of spermiogenesis, mitochondria are characterised by their round shape. As spermiogenesis progresses, the round-shaped mitochondria change into elongated and then swollen mitochondria, subsequently forming a crescent-like shape and finally developing into onion-like shaped mitochondria. We also noted changes in mitochondrial size, location and patterns of cristae at different stages of spermiogenesis. Significant differences (P < 0.0001) were found in the size of the different-shaped mitochondria. In early spermatids transitioning to the granular nucleus stage, the size of the mitochondria decreased, but increased subsequently during spermiogenesis. Changes in size and morphological variations were achieved through marked mitochondrial fusion. We also observed a non-membranous structure (MAG) closely associated with mitochondria that may stimulate or control fusion during mitochondrial remodelling. The end product of this sophisticated remodelling process in turtle spermatozoa is an onion-like mitochondrion. The acquisition of this kind of mitochondrial configuration is one strategy for long-term sperm storage in turtles. The sperm mitochondria of turtles possess a unique kind of morphology that is commonly known as 'onion-like mitochondria'. This is the end product of mitochondrial remodelling and was achieved after the mitochondria had passed through six different morphological types during spermiogenesis. Because mitochondria show great morphological diversity in response to physiological and pathological conditions, this normal transformation of mitochondria could be a good model in which to study different mitochondrial morphologies associated with disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a collection of old blood in the subdural space and has a relatively high estimated incidence, especially among the elderly and men, possibly due to falls, anticoagulant use, or age as independent factors. The subdural evacuating port system (SEPS) offers a minimally invasive solution for cSDH treatment. Objective: The objective of our meta-analysis is to review the literature and assess the safety and efficacy of SEPS as a first-line treatment for cSDH. Method: We conducted an exhaustive literature search to explore outcomes resulting from the implementation of SEPS as the initial treatment for cSDH. The main focus was on treatment success, comprising both symptom improvement and the absence of additional operating room interventions. Supplementary outcomes encompassed factors such as discharge arrangements, length of hospital stay (LOS), recurrence of hematoma, and any associated complications. Result: A total of 15 studies, involving 1146 patients who underwent SEPS placement, satisfied the inclusion criteria. The combined rate of achieving a successful outcome stood at 0.79 (95% CI 0.75–0.83). The occurrence of delayed hematoma recurrence was found to be 0.155 (95% CI 0.101–0.208). Meanwhile, the aggregated inpatient mortality rate was 0.017 (95% CI 0.007–0.031). In terms of complications, the rates were 0.02 (95% CI 0.00–0.03) for any acute hemorrhage, 0.01 (95% CI 0.00–0.01) for acute hemorrhage necessitating surgery, and 0.02 (95% CI 0.01–0.03) for seizures. Notably, SEPS placement is associated with a success rate of 79% and exceptionally low incidences of acute hemorrhage and seizure. Conclusion: SEPS is a viable first-line treatment for cSDH, supported by its minimally invasive nature, avoidance of general anesthesia, high success rate, and favorable safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The curvature properties of three-dimensional f-Kenmotsu manifolds have been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online feedback path modeling and neutralization (FBPMN) is vital in active noise control (ANC) systems to ensure stability and elevate performance in non-stationary environments. In this paper, we propose a modified variable step size (VSS) method for online FBPMN in single-channel ANC systems which incorporates three adaptive filters; a noise control filter, a FBPMN filter, and a linear predictor for disturbance removal. In the proposed method, distinct VSS LMS algorithms are used for FBPMN filter and disturbance removal filter to achieve exceptionally fast convergence and accurate modeling of the feedback path transfer function. Simulation results show that the proposed method yields a significantly more robust ANC system by attaining a higher gain margin at a much faster rate in comparison with the existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of the present paper is to study generalized Sasakian-space-forms satisfying the curvature condition P(ξ, Y) - W = 0. Moreover, ø-M-projectively semisymmetric and ø-pseudo-projectively semisymmetric generalized Sasakian-space-forms are also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of CAD in patients requiring valvular surgery is 20-40%. Clinically the patient is advised to receive surgery when the level of stenosis exceeds 50%. The aim of our study was to provide a complete picture of the prevalence and incidence of CAD in valvular surgery patients along with examining the mortality rates and causes of CAD within the same group of patients. A wide ranged literature search was conducted using PubMed, to find all the various published original articles comparing morbidity and mortality rates, along with the prevalence of CAD in valve surgery patients, as late as May 2015. Consequently, 3957 articles were found and then reviewed as part of the exclusion criteria, after which 10 studies were incorporated in our study. Out of which, 5 were based on incidence of CAD among AVR patients, 2 focused on CAD with MVR and remaining 3 indicated overall picture of CAD in DVR (dual valve replacement) patients. Our study suggests, an incident rate of CAD to be 30% in AVR patients, rates slightly higher in MVR patients but the least in DVR patients. However, the mortality rates for DVR patients were the greatest, the rates decreased among MVR patients and were the least among those receiving AVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and study aims The preferred management of bleeding esophageal varices includes endoscopic band ligation. Endoscopic ligation devices (ELDs) are expensive and designed for single use, limiting their uptake in developing countries. We aimed to assess the efficacy of reprocessing ELDs using terminal microbial cultures and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) testing. Materials and methods ELDs were recovered after clinical use and their components (cap, handle, and cord) were subjected to reprocessing. This included manual cleaning, automated high-level disinfection (HLD), and drying with forced air. Using sterile technique, ELD components were sampled for ATP at three stages: before manual cleaning, after manual cleaning, and after HLD. Components were sent to an external laboratory for culturing. Cultures were interpreted as positive upon identification of Gram-negative bacilli. Results A total of 14 clinically used ELDs were studied, and 189 ATP tests and 41 cultures were evaluated. Overall, 95 % (39/41) of components and 86 % (12/14) of ELDs were culture-negative or did not yield Gram-negative bacilli. Two components (5 %; one handle and one cord) harbored Gram-negative bacilli in quantities of 1 CFU per component. There was no apparent correlation between ATP at any juncture of reprocessing and terminal cultures. Conclusions Reprocessing of ELDs is effective, resulting in infrequent and minimal microbial contamination. Microbial culturing can be used to ensure adequacy of ELD reprocessing if pursued. Until reusable ELDs are commercially available, continued efforts to better define the adequacy and long-term effects of reprocessing ELDs are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the archival of Asian Manuscripts related to cultural and literary heritage in Peshawar University Campus libraries. Topics include the manuscript repositories amongst them are mainly Islamia University and the University of Peshawar; total number of manuscripts in the Islamia College Library is twelve hundred and seventy; and rarest collections on socio-scientific knowledge which was donated by Ghulam Jillani, Former Governor of Punjab, Pakistan.

Background: Osteoporosis is a growing health problem around the world. The increasing incidence of osteoporotic fractures coupled with the lack of knowledge about the disease in the general community means that the disease is continuously increasing the burden on health sector and the general population. The purpose of the study is to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices about osteoporosis among female medical school entrants in Karachi. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted amongst 400 female medical school entrants of DOW University of Health Sciences (DUHS) and Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU). A pre validated questionnaire, Osteoporosis Knowledge Assessment Tool (OKAT), was distributed amongst the participants. A food frequency questionnaire was also distributed to determine calcium intake. Descriptive statistics and Chi square test were used to compare the two groups of students with SPSS (20.0) being utilized for analysis. A p value of <0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The mean age of the participants was 19.4 ± 1.2 years. Only 8.0% of the participants had a good score pertaining to knowledge about osteoporosis whereas majority of the participants (49.0%) had a poor score. Perceived susceptibility was low as only 14.0% of the participants believed that they were at a high risk for osteoporosis. The RDA for calcium was equal to or greater than 700 mg per day which was met by only 29.0% of the participants despite of the high motivation towards consuming a calcium rich diet. Exercise levels were insufficient in terms of both, duration and the recommended type of exercise. Only 12.0% of the participants engaged in exercises according to the recommended guidelines. Moreover, only 5.5% subjects were involved in definitive behaviors to improve bone health. Conclusions: Participants possessed an insufficient knowledge of the disease and that too was not adequately applied in preventative practices. There is a serious lack of adoption of preventative practices for osteoporosis. This was primarily due to little appreciation of the seriousness of osteoporosis. Hence, this study highlights the dire need for awareness about practices and attitudes related to the disease. Furthermore, it could be of paramount importance to future studies conducted on practices and beliefs related to osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we study certain curvature conditions on the conformal curvature tensor in K-contact manifolds with respect to the quarter-symmetric metric connection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]