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Objective: Children with a supratentorial midline low-grade glioma (LGG) may be at risk for impaired bone health due to hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, obesity, exposure to multiple treatment modalities, and/or decreased mobility. The presence of impaired bone health and/or its severity in this population has been understudied. We aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors for bone problems in children with supratentorial midline LGG. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was performed in children with supratentorial midline (suprasellar or thalamic) LGG between 1 January 2003 and 1 January 2022, visiting the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology. Impaired bone health was defined as the presence of vertebral fractures and/or very low bone mineral density (BMD). Results: In total, 161 children were included, with a median age at tumor diagnosis of 4.7 years (range: 0.1–17.9) and a median follow-up of 6.1 years (range: 0.1–19.9). Five patients (3.1%) had vertebral fractures. In 99 patients, BMD was assessed either by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (n = 12) or Bone Health Index (n = 95); 34 patients (34.3%) had a low BMD (≤ −2.0). Impaired visual capacity was associated with bone problems in multivariable analysis (OR: 6.63, 95% CI: 1.83–24.00, P = 0.004). Conclusion: In this retrospective evaluation, decreased BMD was prevalent in 34.3% of children with supratentorial midline LGG. For the risk of developing bone problems, visual capacity seems highly relevant. Surveillance of bone health must be an aspect of awareness in the care and follow-up of children with a supratentorial midline LGG. Significance statement Patients with supratentorial midline LGG may encounter various risk factors for impaired bone health. Bone problems in survivors of childhood supratentorial midline LGG are, however, understudied. This is the first paper to address the prevalence of bone problems in this specific patient population, revealing visual problems as an important risk factor. Diencephalic syndrome historyand/or weight problems associated with hypothalamic dysfunction were related to bone problems in univariate analyses. The results of this study can be used in the development of guidelines to adequately screen and treat these patients to subsequently minimizing bone problems as one of the endocrine complications.

Titanium-magnesium (Ti–Mg) alloy is a widely accepted bimetallic material suitable for biomedical applications. However, reduced wear and corrosion resistance, low strength and hardness, and stress shielding effect limit their widespread applications. Reinforcing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) possessing low density, high modulus, and improved mechanical properties overcome the shortcomings of Ti–Mg alloy. In the present work, nanostructured Ti–Mg alloy was synthesized at room temperature and simultaneously reinforced with MWCNTs. The high energetic ball milling process (HEBM) has been successfully utilized to mechanically alloy Ti with Mg at room temperature by decreasing the grain size to the nanoscale and reinforcing the alloy with MWCNTs. The synthesized nanostructured powder size was 25 nm. Characterization results have shown the emergence of new phases like Ti4C4 and Mg2C3 as a result of mechanical alloying (MA). The reinforced alloy powder was consolidated by cold compaction and followed by microwave sintering. The consolidated sample crystallite size attained was 72 nm and then characterized by Nanoindentation, XRD, and SEM. XRD results show intermetallic compounds Mg2C3 and TiC in bulk samples. SADP TEM confirmed the retention of Nano and partial amorphous structures in the consolidated samples. The nanoindentation test revealed the hardness and elastic modulus values 0.93 GPa and 28.12 GPa, respectively, equivalent to CpTi and its associated alloys. The results are prevalent in those alloys used in biomedical applications produced by conventional melting and casting techniques and can be a potential biomaterial.

The study was conducted to evaluate the individual as well as synergistic growth promoting effects of K. galanga and C. longa in broiler chicken. Total 150 Vencobb 430Y chicks were grouped into four treatments (T1 to T4). The birds of T2 and T3 were supplemented with K. galanga at a level of 25 g/kg of feed and C. longa at 1.9 g/kg of feed respectively, and the birds of T4 were supplemented with a combination of K. galanga (62.5 mg/kg) and longa (0.38 mg/kg). The weekly body weight, cumulative feed intake and feed conversion ratio were evaluated. On forty-second day, three birds from each treatment were humanely slaughtered and the carcass characteristics, serum biochemical values, serum corticosterone level and intestinal histomorphology were studied. Significantly better growth-promoting activities in terms of body weight, FCR and carcass characteristics were exhibited by birds from treatments fed with K. galanga alone and its combination with C. longa. No significant difference could be observed in serum biochemical parameters and corticosterone level, but significantly higher villi-to-crypt ratio was observed in K. galanga fed alone and combination fed groups. All these data are indications of the growth-promoting efficiency of K. galanga alone and its combination with C. longa in broiler chicken. A combination of these two herbs [K. galanga (62.5 mg/kg) and C. longa (0.38 mg/kg)] can thus be recommended for commercial broiler chicken considering the economic feasibility in terms of higher body weight gain and low cost of herbal additives.

NASA's Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) mission has gained significant attention within the land remote sensing community for estimating soil moisture (SM) using the Global Navigation System Reflectometry technique. Multiple algorithms have been developed to generate global SM data products from CYGNSS observations in combination with other remotely sensed geophysical data products. However, different algorithms exhibit variations in performance concerning both time and space due to model capabilities, complexities, and loss calculations. To address these limitations, the fusion of various SM products can be an effective solution. In this study, we explore different fusion algorithms, including the minimum variance estimator, best linear unbiased estimator, and linear weight fusion, to fuse distinct global CYGNSS-based SM products. We consider three SM data products publicly available from the Geosystems Research Institute at Mississippi State University. To assess our model's performance, we compare our fused data product with the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission's enhanced SM products at a resolution of 9 km × 9 km. Our findings reveal notable performance enhancements in several regions when combining different SM data products. The results demonstrate that the minimum variance estimator achieves a mean unbiased root-mean-square difference of 0.0359 $\text{m}^{3}{/}\text{m}^{3}$ with a correlation coefficient of 0.91 for SMAP-recommended grids and also linear weight fusion achieves 0.0389 $\text{m}^{3}{/}\text{m}^{3}$ with a correlation coefficient of 0.90 when no label data are used in the training of fusion.

Aim: The purpose of this article is to give an analysis of developing trends and research hotspots within the KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KAHER) Group using bibliometric methodologies. Materials and Methods: Using co-authorship, co-citation, and co-occurrence analysis, publications from the Scopus database for the years 1973–2022 are examined and analyzed on a variety of factors. R-Programming (Biblioshiny) and VOSViewer, an application for scientific visualization, are used to do the analysis. Results: There were 1721 publications in Scopus throughout the study period, with 83.9% of those being journal articles and the remaining 6% being letters and case studies. Research generally shows a constant rise with growing multi-authorship. The most sought-after magazine for publishing by the writers at KAHER is “Reproductive Health,” and they prefer to collaborate on research pieces. In addition, health-care science services and medical informatics have steadily developed into new areas of scientific interest. Originality: This study offers a thorough and comprehensive analysis of the KAHERs' formative environment. This study can serve as a solid starting point for future research and can be used to analyze how health science research has changed overtime. Conclusion: The study reveals KAHER's robust publishing productivity and impact, with a diverse output among authors and a consistent growth in the number of publications. The dominance of collaborative research, high citation rates, and the prevalence of medical research suggest the importance of international collaborations and the implementation of an institutional online repository system for enhanced research efficacy and accessibility.

Abstract Every year, 10 million people fall ill with tuberculosis (TB). Despite being a preventable and curable disease, 1.5 million people die from TB each year -making it the world’s top infectious disease. TB is the leading cause of death of people with HIV and also a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Its presumed that TB was the cause of 1% of the total deaths among inpatients in Sudan in 2017. The current study is aimed to provide pooled prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis among Sudanese as well as to determine any socio-cultural risk factors associated. A systematic review of the literature was conducted and regulated in accordance with the PRISMA Statement. After abstract and full text screening only twenty-six articles met our inclusion criteria and passed the quality assessment procedure. Pulmonary tuberculosis prevalence was assessed in sixteen included studies among participants from Khartoum, Gezira, Kassala, Blue Nile, River Nile, White Nile, Gadarif, Red sea, North Kordofan, Northern State, Sennar and West Darfur States, representing a total sample size of 11,253 participants of suspected individuals such as febrile outpatients, TB patients’ contacts and other groups such as HIV/AIDS patients, hemodialysis patients, School adolescents as well as pregnant women. The pooled prevalence was 30.72% [CI: 30.64, 30.81]. Moreover, Khartoum State recorded the highest pooled prevalence as 41.86% [CI: 14.69, 69.02] based on a total sample size of 2,737 participants. Furthermore, male gender and rural residence were found to be significantly associated with TB infection. Further research with larger sample sizes targeting prevalence and risk factors of TB among Sudanese population is needed to be conducted.

Moringa oleifera, drumstick tree, found in tropical and subtropical regions all across the world excepting frigid areas, is native to India. Different environmental conditions and seasons affect the chemical makeup of plants. The present study evaluated the methanol, 50% methanol and aqueous extracts of Moringa bark collected during five Indian calendar-based seasons for gallic acid, ellagic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid and quercetin using HPTLC. As a reaction to seasonal fluctuations, TPC and TFC were highest in the methanolic extract of winter season (392 ± 5.03 mg GAE/g and 7.15 ± 0.06 mg QE/g respectively), which also exhibited the maximum oxidative quenching activity with IC50 against DPPH, NO and SO radicals being 147.3 ± 1.32, 67.55 ± 0.70 and 85.46 ± 0.76 µg/ml respectively. The highest total antioxidant capacity using phosphomolybdate assay (87.74 ± 0.23 µg AAE/mg) was also exhibited by the same. The content of quercetin (4.68 µg/mg) and ellagic acid (3.66 µg/mg) were highest in August (rainy season) and in November (autumn season) respectively. Overall, the seasonal pattern for polyphenolic concentration was: winter > autumn > rainy > spring > summer. The most advised harvesting seasons for the bark of M. oleifera is, thus, winter followed by autumn.

Most of the type traits have positive correlated response with lifetime traits. Therefore, these traits are important for selection of animals for high milk yield. Moreover, the udder depth can be used as a good indicator for predicting lifetime milk yield and length of productive life. Lastly, the selection may be supported with the detected QTLs, significant SNPs and candidate genes which are the potential tools to improve the lifetime traits.

Hemp seeds are gaining increasing attention in the realm of research due to their multifaceted nutritional and pharmaceutical properties. Notably, these seeds offer a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making them a valuable addition to one's diet therefore, growing interest among researchers globally. A comprehensive literature review was conducted on the prominent databases Scopus, Elsevier, and PubMed using the keywords ''Hempseed,'' ''Phytochemistry,'' ''Nutraceuticals,'' and their food and feed applications. Studies suggest that these compounds exhibit therapeutic potential against conditions such as epilepsy, certain neurological disorders (Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases), and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, hemp seeds possess other notable properties, such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. They are also used as a dietary supplement to alleviate headaches, insomnia, high cholesterol levels, and premenstrual syndrome symptoms in women. Hempseed oil, powder, and flour are utilized to enhance the phenolic activity and antioxidant properties of food products. Additionally, hempseed cake, generated after cold pressing, boasts a high protein concentration, making it a valuable feed for ruminants. However, further research and clinical trials are necessary to fully understand and harness the potential of hemp seeds for functional foods and nutraceutical applications.

Objective To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of pessary therapy as an initial treatment option compared with surgery for moderate to severe pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms in secondary care from a healthcare and a societal perspective.Design Economic evaluation alongside a multicentre randomised controlled non-inferiority trial with a 24-month follow-up.Setting 21 hospitals in the Netherlands, recruitment conducted between 2015 and 2022.Participants 1605 women referred to secondary care with symptomatic prolapse stage ≥2 were requested to participate. Of them, 440 women gave informed consent and were randomised to pessary therapy (n=218) or to surgery (n=222) in a 1:1 ratio stratified by hospital.Interventions Pessary therapy and surgery.Primary and secondary outcome measures The Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), a 7-point scale dichotomised into successful versus unsuccessful, with a non-inferiority margin of −10%; quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) measured by the EQ-5D-3L; healthcare and societal costs were based on medical records and the institute for Medical Technology Assessment questionnaires.Results For the PGI-I, the mean difference between pessary therapy and surgery was −0.05 (95% CI −0.14; 0.03) and −0.03 (95% CI −0.07; 0.002) for QALYs. In total, 54.1% women randomised to pessary therapy crossed over to surgery, and 3.6% underwent recurrent surgery. Healthcare and societal costs were significantly lower in the pessary therapy (mean difference=−€1807, 95% CI −€2172; −€1446 and mean difference=−€1850, 95% CI −€2349; −€1341, respectively). The probability that pessary therapy is cost-effective compared with surgery was 1 at willingness-to-pay thresholds between €0 and €20 000/QALY gained from both perspectives.Conclusions Non-inferiority of pessary therapy regarding the PGI-I could not be shown and no statistically significant differences in QALYs between interventions were found. Due to significantly lower costs, pessary therapy is likely to be cost-effective compared with surgery as an initial treatment option for women with symptomatic POP treated in secondary care.Trial registration number NTR4883.

Janwal Pashmi is the medium sized dog found in the villages of Chakur tehsil of Latur and adjoining districts of Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Present investigation was carried out by collecting morphometric data on 207 Janwal Pashmi dogs from its breeding tract. Data collected was classified into two age groups, i.e. below one year (puppies) and above one year (adult). Majority of the dogs were found to be black in colour (78.26%), however, fawn (8.69%), brown (4.34%), grey (5.79%) and white (2.89%) were also noticed. Most of the dogs were found to have medium hairs length (51.20%) followed by long hairs (43.47%) and rarely short hair length (5.31%). The head was straight and wedge shaped with 69.56% and 30.43%, respectively. The colour of nostrils in majority of dogs was black (95.16%) and very few dogs had brown (3.86%) and pinkish (0.96%) colour nostrils. Eyes were light brown (47.34%) to dark brown (52.65%). Majority of dogs had long ear (54.58%) while medium sized ears were observed in 42.02% of dogs. Morphometric characters studied were body weight (BW), height at wither (HW), body length (BL), chest girth (CG), paunch girth (PG), tail length (TL), head length (HL), height at base of tail (HBT), neck length (NL), neck girth (NG), ear length (EL), ear width (EW), eye width (EYW), hind foot length (HFL), upper hind leg length (UHLL), lower hind leg length (LHLL), fore foot length (FFL), upper fore leg length (UFLL) and lower fore leg length (LFLL). The effect of sex was found to be non-significant on all the traits in puppies except BW, HW, HBT, NL, UHLL and UFLL. However, BW, HW, BL, CG, TL, HL, HBT, NL, NG, HFL, UHLL, LHLL, FFL and UFLL were found significantly higher in males of adult age group. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food was given to dogs and majority of farmers used iron mesh cages for keeping dogs. The characterization of Janwal Pashmi dog done in this study may help in the registration of this dog as a breed status and further conservation.

Human dirofilariasis is a type of zoonotic infection caused by the Dirofilarial species. It is a type of roundworm which is commonly seen in dogs, cats and is transmitted to humans by mosquito bite. Microfilaria is rarely produced in humans. Although clinically they can have varied presentations, it usually presents as ocular or subcutaneous nodules. Definitive diagnosis requires histopathological findings of this worm. We hereby report three cases of Dirofilariasis from a tertiary care hospital in Wayanad.

Primary hyperparathyroidism secondary to ectopic parathyroid (in anterior mediastinum) is rare in children. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl with a history of multiple fractures, renal calculi and limb deformities. She was diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism secondary to an intrathymic parathyroid adenoma. Sestamibi scan showed a lesion in the anterior mediastinum. A biochemical evaluation revealed hypercalcaemia, elevated alkaline phosphatase and parathormone levels. The lesion was marked with radioisotope and confirmed intraoperatively using a gamma camera. The child underwent thoracoscopic left thymectomy with the adenoma. Immediate decrease in calcium and parathyroid hormone values were noted intraoperatively and serial monitoring showed a downward trend. On follow-up, the child is doing well. Ectopic parathyroid adenoma is very rare. CT with radioisotope scans is helpful in diagnosis. Thoracoscopic excision of ectopic adenoma is safe in children.

Labor laws aim to accomplish a number of goals, including achieving gender equality in the workforce, to offer a minimum standard of living. The majority of academics, however, ignore other sexually inclined individuals like LGBTI in favor of accounting only for interactions between men and women to comprehend gender in its entirety. To close that disparity, this research used a comparative approach and a qualitative approach to investigate how the EU handles the issues of a varied labor force in terms of both law and physics. The EU, in contrast to other organizations, often gives its member states guidance by providing a range of consistent legal support. Based on secondary research, especially recent studies funded and supervised by the EU, this study found that although the EU has a comprehensive legislative measure to maintain women's labor rights, no unique legal structure has been formed that promotes LGBTI workplace rights. Because of this, most members of sexual minorities face discrimination at work and have trouble getting employment. The slow progress to reduce pay inequalities, pension disparities, and other forms of discrimination between binary and non-binary genders has revealed shortcomings in the current legal framework, even in the face of sufficient legal protections. The findings of this study have supported the implementation of regulations aimed at reducing gender-based wage and pension inequality as well as other forms of discrimination.

IntroductionMolecular profiling of NSCLC is essential for optimising treatment decisions, but often incomplete. We assessed the efficacy of protocolised molecular profiling in the current standard-of-care (SoC) in a prospective observational study in the Netherlands and measured the effect of providing standardised diagnostic procedures. We also explored the potential of plasma-based molecular profiling in the primary diagnostic setting.MethodsThis multi-centre prospective study was designed to explore the performance of current clinical practice during the run-in phase using local SoC tissue profiling procedures. The subsequent phase was designed to investigate the extent to which comprehensive molecular profiling (CMP) can be maximized by protocolising tumour profiling. Successful molecular profiling was defined as completion of at least EGFR and ALK testing. Additionally, PD-L1 tumour proportions scores were explored. Lastly, the additional value of centralised plasma-based testing for EGFR and KRAS mutations using droplet digital PCR was evaluated.ResultsTotal accrual was 878 patients, 22.0% had squamous cell carcinoma and 78.0% had non-squamous NSCLC. Stage I-III was seen in 54.0%, stage IV in 46.0%. Profiling of EGFR and ALK was performed in 69.9% of 136 patients included in the run-in phase, significantly more than real-world data estimates of 55% (pConclusionThis study shows a high success rate of tissue-based molecular profiling that was significantly improved by a protocolised approach. Tissue-based profiling remains unfeasible for a substantial proportion of patients. Combined analysis of tumour tissue and circulating tumour DNA is a promising approach to allow adequate molecular profiling of more patients.

Essential oils are plant-derived aromatic volatile oils, and they contain bioactive compounds that have been shown to improve poultry nutrition. However, considering problems associated with the solubility and bioavailability of polyphenolic compounds, the study was planned to find out the effect of the novel feed-grade delivery system, phytosomes for conjugation of plant-derived polyphenolic compound carvacrol on the growth performance of broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted, on 240 broiler chicks for a period of 6 weeks. The chicks were divided into 4 groups having 4 replicates of 15 birds each. The birds in the control group (T0) offered a standard diet as per BIS (2007) specification. Group T1 received a standard diet supplemented with Bacitracin Methylene Disalicylate (BMD) antibiotic at standard dose and group T2 received a standard diet supplemented with carvacrol essential oil @100 mg/kg feed. Group T3 received a standard diet supplemented with phytosome-conjugated carvacrol essential oil (carvacrol @16.6%) @100 mg/kg feed. The performance of all the treatment groups was assessed with respect to the different performance parameters. The supplementation of phytosome-conjugated carvacrol essential oil (carvacrol @16.6%) @ 100 mg/kg feed was found beneficial in terms of growth performance, feed efficiency, and intestinal morphometry. In terms of economics of broiler production, the results revealed that the addition of phytosome- conjugated carvacrol essential oil and carvacrol essential oil in diets was found beneficial in reducing the cost of broiler production, thereby enhancing the margin of profit in broiler production and fetching higher net profit than the control group.

BackgroundThe bioeconomy, an evolving concept promoting sustainable use of renewable biological resources, confronts the challenge of balancing growth and sustainability across sectors like biotechnology, agriculture, and forestry. This study aims to elucidate the bioeconomy's dynamic nature, constructing a comprehensive theoretical model addressing these complexities.MethodologyThrough an extensive literature review, foundational elements for this model were identified: defining the core concept, delineating relevant variables, specifying assumptions and parameters, and depicting relationships through equations or diagrams. Special attention was given to integrating Georgescu-Roegen's insights, emphasizing causal links, state variables, measurement scales, and validation plans.ResultsThe model incorporates Georgescu-Roegen's insights, highlighting the importance of clearly defining the bioeconomy for a comprehensive understanding. The proposed model leverages variables, assumptions, and equations within Georgescu-Roegen's framework, serving as a crucial tool for researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. This approach facilitates research structuring, informed decision-making, and interdisciplinary collaboration.ConclusionBy addressing the bioeconomy's evolution, and cross-sectional boundaries, and adopting a broader perspective, this study contributes to policy development for a more sustainable and integrated bioeconomy. Based on empirical knowledge, this model provides not only a solid theoretical framework but also practical guidelines for advancing toward a balanced and resilient bioeconomy.

BackgroundMajor depressive disorder (MDD) is a common and debilitating mental illness characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in daily activities. The objective of this study was to investigate whether levels of macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β) and macrophage chemoattractant protein-2 (MCP-2) in the blood were associated with the pathophysiology and development of MDD compared to healthy controls (HCs).MethodsThis case-control study was conducted involving 50 MDD patients and 38 HCs. We performed a comprehensive assessment to match age, sex, BMI, and socio-demographic profile between the groups. The study excluded participants with chronic infection, inflammatory diseases, coexisting psychiatric disorder, history of liver and kidney diseases, and individuals who are under antipsychotic medications. A professional psychiatrist diagnosed MDD patients and evaluated HCs based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-5) criteria. The severity of depression was assessed using the Hamilton Depression (Ham-D) rating scale. Commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to quantify the serum MIP-1β and MCP-2 levels.ResultsThe results indicated elevated serum MIP-1β levels (207.73±24.24 pg/ml) in MDD patients compared to HCs (58.77±9.14 pg/ml). This difference in concentration is positively correlated with severity of disease symptoms (r = 0.451; pConclusionAccording to this study, elevated levels of MIP-1β and MCP-2 may be associated with the pathophysiology and development of MDD. These increased serum MIP-1β and MCP-2 levels could be used as risk assessment tools for MDD. The present findings urge further research and the development of therapeutic and diagnostic approaches for depression.

BackgroundObsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a highly prevalent neuropsychiatric disorder. Recently, there has been a growing interest in investigating the association between pro-inflammatory cytokines and the pathogenesis of OCD. However, studies targeting interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in OCD are limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the potential role of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6 in the pathophysiology and development of OCD.MethodsThis study recruited 58 OCD patients and 30 age-sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). A qualified psychiatrist diagnosed OCD patients and assessed HCs based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Health Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) criteria. We measured the severity of OCD using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS). Serum IL-1β and IL-6 levels were measured using ELISA kits following the appropriate methods.ResultsThe results showed that serum IL-1β levels were significantly elevated in OCD patients compared to HCs (23.68±1.65 pg/ml vs. 15.75±1.02 pg/ml; p = 0.002). Similarly, OCD patients exhibited significantly higher serum IL-6 levels than HCs (44.97±0.73 pg/ml vs. 37.04±0.35 pg/ml; pConclusionThese results suggest that serum IL-1β and IL-6 levels may be associated with the pathophysiology of OCD. Also, these cytokines levels in blood samples can serve as early risk assessment tools for the development of OCD. We recommend further studies in a large and homogeneous population to support these findings.

This work explores diverse novel soliton solutions of two fractional nonlinear models, namely the truncated time M-fractional Chafee-Infante (tM-fCI) and truncated time M-fractional Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs (tM-fLGH) models. The several soliton waves of time M-fractional Chafee-Infante model describe the stability of waves in a dispersive fashion, homogeneous medium and gas diffusion, and the solitary waves of time M-fractional Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs model are used to characterize the drift cyclotron movement for coherent ion-cyclotrons in a geometrically chaotic plasma. A confirmed unified technique exploits soliton solutions of considered fractional models. Under the conditions of the constraint, fruitful solutions are gained and verified with the use of the symbolic software Maple 18. Keeping special values of the constraint, this inquisition achieved kink shape, the collision of kink type and lump wave, the collision of lump and bell type, periodic lump wave, bell shape, some periodic soliton waves for time M-fractional Chafee-Infante and periodic lump, and some diverse periodic and solitary waves for time M-fractional Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs model successfully. The required solutions in this work have many constructive descriptions, and corporal behaviors have been incorporated through some abundant 3D figures with density plots. We compare the m-fractional derivative with the beta fractional derivative and the classical form of these models in two-dimensional plots. Comparisons with others' results are given likewise.

The nucleus preserves the genomic DNA of eukaryotic organisms and maintains the integrity of the cell by regulating the transport of molecules across the nuclear membrane. It is hitherto assumed that small molecules having a size below the passive permeability limit are allowed to diffuse freely to the nucleus while the transport of larger molecules is regulated via an active mechanism involving energy. Here we report on the kinetics of nuclear import and export of dextran molecules having a size below the passive permeability limit. The studies carried out using time-lapse confocal fluorescence microscopy show a clear deviation from the passive diffusion model. In particular, it is observed that the steady-state concentration of dextran molecules inside the nucleus is consistently less than the concentration outside, in contradiction to the predictions of the passive diffusion model. Detailed analysis and modeling of the transport show that the nuclear export rates significantly differ from the import rates, and the difference in rates is dependent on the size of the molecules. The nuclear export rates are further confirmed by an independent experimental study where we observe the diffusion of dextran molecules from the nucleus directly. Our experiments and transport model would suggest that the nucleus actively rejects exogenous macromolecules even below the passive permeability limit. This result can have a significant impact on biomedical research, especially in areas related to targeted drug delivery and gene therapy.

This work explores diverse novel soliton solutions due to fractional derivative, dispersive, and nonlinearity effects for the nonlinear time M-fractional paraxial wave equation. The advanced exp [-φ(ξ)] expansion method integrates the nonlinear M-fractional Paraxial wave equation for achieving creative solitonic and traveling wave envelopes to reconnoiter such dynamics. As a result, trigonometric and hyperbolic solutions have been found via the proposed method. Under the conditions of the constraint, fruitful solutions are gained and verified with the use of the symbolic software Maple 18. For any chosen set of the allowed parameters 3D, 2D and density plots illustrate, this inquisition achieved kink shape, the collision of kink type and rogue wave, periodic rogue wave, some distinct singular periodic soliton waves for time M-fractional Paraxial wave equation. As certain nonlinear effects cancel out dispersion effects, optical solitons typically can travel great distances without dissipating. We have constructed reasonable soliton solutions and managed the actual meaning of the acquired solutions of action by characterizing the particular advantages of the summarized parameters by the portrayal of figures and by interpreting the physical occurrences. New precise voyaging wave configurations are obtained using symbolic computation and the previously described methodologies. However, the movement role of the waves is explored, and the modulation instability analysis is used to describe the stability of waves in a dispersive fashion of the obtained solutions, confirming that all created solutions are precise and stable.

This article provides ethical guidance on using race in health research as a variable or in defining the study population. To this end, a plain, non-exhaustive checklist is provided for researchers and research ethics committees, preceded by a brief introduction on the need for justification when using race as a variable or in defining a study population, the problem of exoticism, that distinctions pertain between race, ethnicity and ancestry, the problematic naming of races, and that race does not serve well as a presumed biological construct in genetic research.

In the era of late modernity, individual vulnerability is affected by various threats and risks. Consequently, people need to be aware of these and fit in more than ever before. To help people become competent in this changing world and to prepare for future threats, academic institutions play a vital role. To understand such an academic role, a part of the literature has highlighted how a student can better learn emergency responses (ER) and crisis management (CM). Nevertheless, very little literature has focused on how a developing country’s students, particularly teenagers, learn and understand ER and CM. Focusing on such gaps in the literature, this study aims to understand a sample of Bangladeshi secondary students’ state of knowledge related to ER and CM. With the help of cluster sampling, the researcher distributed a survey among a sample of 360 students between 9th and 12th standard from two southern districts respectively Khulna and Noakhali, which are also disaster-prone areas of Bangladesh. Adopting Krathwohl’s model of knowledge typology, such as factual knowledge, conceptual knowledge, procedural knowledge, and metacognitive knowledge, the researcher collected and evaluated the data with descriptive statistics. The findings of this study show that even though most of the students are familiar with different ER- and CM-related keywords, they have limited deeper knowledge. Furthermore, there was a significant knowledge difference between the genders. Similarly, the lack of training in the academic environment also makes these young students vulnerable to any kind of threat from their surroundings that could affect the districts’ weak institutional and legislative structure. The scholarship of this study, which has policymakers and young academics as its possible audience, could assist them in raising the knowledge levels of students by adding new information to textbooks with illustrations and by setting up drills.

Background. Endoscopic therapy is the first-line treatment of choice for control of acute variceal bleeding (AVB). In high-risk patients with persistent AVB despite pharmacological treatment and endoscopic intervention, percutaneous transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS) provides a minimally invasive salvage method to reduce portal pressure and control bleeding. Objectives. To evaluate factors influencing in-hospital mortality after salvage TIPS (sTIPS) in patients with exsanguinating variceal bleeding despite medical treatment and endoscopic intervention. Methods. Clinical and laboratory data were analysed in all patients treated with sTIPS following failed endoscopic therapy for AVB between August 1991 and November 2020. Factors associated with and predictors of death were determined using bivariate analysis and univariate logistic regression analysis. Results. Thirty-four patients (29 men, 5 women), mean age 52 years (range 31 - 80), received sTIPS for uncontrolled (n=11) or refractory (n=23) AVB. The causes of portal hypertension were alcohol-related (n=24) and non-alcohol-related cirrhosis. Salvage TIPS controlled bleeding in 32 patients, with recurrence in 1. Ten patients died in hospital (mean 4.8 days, range 1 - 10) of liver failure (n=4), multiorgan failure (n=3), alcoholic cardiomyopathy (n=2) and uncontrolled gastric variceal bleeding (n=1). On bivariate analysis, factors associated with death were Child-Pugh (C-P) score ≥10 (p=0.006), sodium Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD-Na) score ≥22 (p

Introduction : L’eau est un produit vital pour l’Homme, mais également une source de nombreuses maladies hydriques. La qualité des eaux conditionnées en bouteille et en sachet, généralement produites dans des conditions ne respectant pas les normes techniques et de salubrité, est évaluée dans 4 départements à forte activité économique dans le sud du Bénin. Méthodologie : Au total 70 unités de production dont 64 d’ensachage et 6 de mise en bouteilles d’eau ont été inspectées et leurs échantillons prélevés. Les analyses physico-chimiques ont porté sur le pH, la conductivité électrique, les solides totaux dissous (TDS) grâce à un multimètre portatif (HACH, HQ 4300) et la turbidité (turbidimètre HACH 2100 QiS). Les nitrates et fluorures ont été déterminés par un spectrophotomètre UV-Visible (HACH 3900, Germany). L’analyse bactériologique a porté sur la recherche des germes banals, des coliformes totaux et fécaux ; les bactéries spécifiques telles que E. coli, Pseudomonas, Entérocoques et Staphylococcus aureus. Résultats et Discussion : 70% des eaux conditionnées proviennent de forage sans autorisation d’exploitation préalable. Les risques de contamination identifiés sont l’absence de filtres à charbon obligatoires (64,06%), de lampe UV (42,19%) et d’hygiène (34,37%). Le pH des échantillons d’eaux varie entre 3,94 et 7,74 avec 48,57% de non conformités (norme 6,5-8,5). La teneur moyenne en nitrate des échantillons d’eaux de forage est de 28,6±90 mg/L avec 17,14% de non conformités (norme < 45mg/L). Il est noté une relation entre les valeurs élevées de TDS et de nitrate (> 45mg/L) avec un pH acide de l’eau (p= < 0,05). 100% des unités de production d’eau en bouteille (n=6) ont un forage autonome avec un pH moyen de 5,5±1,2. 83,33% et 33,33% de non-conformités ont été observées pour le pH et les nitrates. Quant à la qualité microbiologique 67,14% des échantillons (n=47) contiennent des germes banals au-delà des normes admises (50UFC/mL) dont 50% (n=3) des eaux embouteillées. Une contamination aux coliformes totaux dans 7,14% (n=5) a été observée avec un échantillon positif à E. coli (1,43%). Conclusion : Cette étude confirme la réalité de la mauvaise qualité des eaux conditionnées, surtout celle en sachet. Il urge que les pouvoirs publics amènent tous les producteurs à respecter les normes afin de protéger la santé des populations.

The present study was undertaken to study the TLR4 gene polymorphism in exon 3 and its association with somatic cell count in HF×Gir cows using PCR-RFLP. Sixty crossbred cows (40 affected and 20 normal) between 3rd to 5th lactation were selected from Bombay Gowrakshak Mandali, Betegaon, Maharashtra. The confirmation of mastitis was done with the help of California Mastitis Test (CMT) and the blood samples of 40 affected animals were collected aseptically along with 20 normal animals. The mean of somatic cell score in normal cows ranged between 2.86 to 2.99 × 105 cells/ml, whereas for affected animal the range of somatic cell score was 3.45 to 5.72 × 105 cells/ml. The genomic DNA was isolated and exon 3 of TLR4 gene was successfully amplified by PCR using a specific primer. The PCR product was digested with HaeIII restriction enzyme. The PCR-RFLP of exon 3 with HaeIII enzyme revealed two genotypes ‘BB’ and ‘AB’ with band pattern 49 bp, 98 bp & 196 bp (BB) and 49 bp, 98 bp, 196 bp & 245 bp (AB), respectively. The mean of somatic cell score estimated for animals with genotypes ‘BB’ and ‘AB’ was 3.99±0.13 and 3.66±0.03, respectively. The two mean ‘t’ test analysis showed non-significant difference between somatic cell count with genotypes ‘BB’ and ‘AB’. It indicated that there was no association between the genotypes of exon 3 of TLR4 gene with somatic cell count in crossbred cows under present study.

The effect of feeding Lathyrus grain as substitute of GNC protein in the diet of lambs was studied for nutrient utilization, blood and rumen metabolites and growth performance. Jalauni lambs (n=18) weighing around 16.45±1.50 kg were randomly allocated into three dietary treatments in a completely randomized block design. In the control group (LG0), the animals were fed ad lib. green chaff of fodder Sorghum bicolor cv. M. P. Chari with concentrate mixture as per requirement whereas in the LG50 and LG100, the crude protein of groundnut cake was replaced @50% and 100% with Lathyrus grain (LG) protein in the concentrate mixture, respectively. Supplementation of LG did not influence the total DMI (g/day) in animals of different experimental groups. Digestibility(%) of DM, OM, and cell wall polysaccharides (NDF, ADF, cellulose) was also comparable amongst the different dietary groups, while CP digestibility was higher in LG50 group than LG0 or LG100 group. Digestible crude protein (DCP) content was higher in LG50 than LG0 or LG 100 whereas total digestible nutrients (TDN) contents were comparable amongst the treatment groups. Similarly, rumen metabolites and all the blood parameters were comparable among the groups and within the normal physiological range. The daily body weight gain was not affected with the experimental diets. It could be concluded that Lathyrus grain could be used as an alternative source of protein in the concentrate mixture without any adverse impacts on nutrient utilization, rumen fermentation, blood metabolites and growth performance of Jalauni lambs.

BackgroundIn Bangladesh, preventive chemotherapy targeting soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in school-age children has been implemented since 2008. To evaluate the success of this strategy, surveys were conducted between 2017 and 2020 in 10 out of 64 districts. We estimate the geographic distribution of STH infections by species at high spatial resolution, identify risk factors, and estimate treatment needs at different population subgroups.MethodologyBayesian geostatistical models were fitted to prevalence data of each STH species. Climatic, environmental, and socioeconomic predictors were extracted from satellite images, open-access, model-based databases, and demographic household surveys, and used to predict the prevalence of infection over a gridded surface at 1 x 1 km spatial resolution across the country, via Bayesian kriging. These estimates were combined with gridded population data to estimate the number of required treatments for different risk groups.Principal findingsThe population-adjusted prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworm across all ages is estimated at 9.9% (95% Bayesian credible interval: 8.0-13.0%), 4.3% (3.0-7.3%), and 0.6% (0.4-0.9%), respectively. There were 24 out of 64 districts with an estimated population-adjusted STH infection prevalence above 20%. The proportion of households with improved sanitation showed a statistically important, protective association for both, A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura prevalence. Precipitation in the driest month of the year was negatively associated with A. lumbricoides prevalence. High organic carbon concentration in the soil's fine earth fraction was related to a high hookworm prevalence. Furthermore, we estimated that 30.5 (27.2; 36.0) million dosages of anthelmintic treatments for school-age children were required per year in Bangladesh.Conclusions/significanceFor each of the STH species, the prevalence was reduced by at least 80% since treatment was scaled up more than a decade ago. The current number of deworming dosages could be reduced by up to 61% if the treatment strategy was adapted to the local prevalence.

BackgroundSerum or whole blood collection, processing, transport and storage still present significant challenges in low resource settings where mass surveillance is required to sustain disease elimination. Therefore, in this study, we explored the diagnostic efficacy of dried blood spots (DBS) as a minimally invasive and potentially cost-effective alternative sampling technique to whole blood sampling procedures for subsequent detection of Leishmania donovani antibodies or DNA.Methodology and principal findingsArchived serum, DNA samples from whole blood of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases and healthy controls, and DBS from corresponding cases and controls, were used. Both molecular and serological assays were optimized to detect L. donovani antibodies or DNA in DBS elute and results were compared against those obtained with whole blood. Serological assays (both rK28 ELISA and rK39 ELISA) of DBS samples showed sensitivity and specificity of 100% and had excellent agreement with results from whole blood samples (kappa value ranged from 0.98-1). Bland-Altman analysis of OD values from rK28-ELISA with DBS elute and patients' serum showed an excellent agreement (ICC = 0.9) whereas a good agreement (ICC = 0.8) was observed in the case of rK39-ELISA. However, qPCR and RPA of DBS samples had a diminished sensitivity of 76% and 68%, respectively, and poor agreement was observed with the whole blood samples.ConclusionOur results demonstrate that DBS offer excellent diagnostic efficiency for serological assays and represent a viable alternative to whole blood sampling procedures.

Background: Inhalational anaesthetics are used for the induction and maintenance of general anaesthesia in children. More agents are evolving in an effort to discover the agent of choice in this age group, considering the safety margin, availability, affordability, and accessibility of the anaesthetics. Aim: The aim of our study was to compare the qualities of halothane and sevoflurane in paediatric patients. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective randomised study of 100 children within the age group of 5–12 years, scheduled for elective surgery in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, from January to October 2022, and satisfied the study inclusion criteria. The following variables (heart rate, blood pressure, arrhythmias, and complications) were recorded and analysed using IBM SPSS version 25 (Chicago) USA. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The incidence of tolerability at induction of anaesthesia, hypoxaemia (SpO2

A high spatial and temporal resolution global soil moisture product is essential for understanding hydrologic and meteorological processes and enhancing agricultural applications. Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals at L-band frequencies that reflect off the land surface can convey high-resolution land surface information, including surface soil moisture (SM). Cyclone global navigation satellite system (CYGNSS) constellation generates Delay-Doppler Maps (DDMs) that contain important Earth surface information from GNSS reflection measurements. DDMs are affected by soil moisture and other factors such as complex topography, soil texture, and overlying vegetation. Including entire DDM information can help reduce the uncertainty of SM estimation under different conditions along with remotely sensed geophysical data. This work extends our previously developed deep learning (DL) framework to a global scale by utilizing processed DDM measurements (analog power, effective scattering area, and bistatic radar cross-section) and ancillary data (elevation, slope, water percentage, soil properties, and vegetation water content). The DL model is trained and evaluated using the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission's enhanced SM products at 9-km resolution. This study comprehensively evaluates the DL model against publicly available CYGNSS-based SM products at a quasi-global scale. In addition to the typical comparison against in-situ measurements, a robust triple collocation technique is used to evaluate the DL-based SM product and other CYGNSS-derived SM products.

Abstract Purvish M. Parikh In the year 2020, a total of 342 000 women were estimated to die of cervical cancer, of which 90%) were expected amongst low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Globally incidence of cervical cancer has reduced as a result of improved personal hygiene, better living conditions and higher application of opportunistic screening programs. Yet GLOBOCAN shows that absolute number of cases are still increasing. We therefore conducted a 21 question multiple choice questionnaire online survey in Jan 2023 amongst 9 SAARC countries. A total of 367 replies were received and the representative answers for each country are being reported in this manuscript. A good possibility of achieving World Health Assembly target (Nov 17, 2020) was felt only by Bhutan and Nepal. For screening, most countries (Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) recommend for all asymptomatic eligible patients. Public health experts have suggested VIA / VILI as the best solution for LMICs. However, a dual screening strategy (HPV DNA plus) cytology was preferred by doctors in Afghanistan, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Screening, triage and then treatment was the preferred by Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. HPV vaccination was recommended in all girls between ages 10 to 26 years in Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. All the 9 countries would use HPV vaccination to all eligible patients if the cost of the vaccine was reasonably low. Our survey clearly outlines challenges faced in tackling cervical cancer in SAARC countries. We also provide consensus regarding several potential solutions that can be used in both public and private cervical cancer control programs.

Background: Oral health has a multifaceted nature as it encompasses a person's ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow, and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions with confidence and without pain, discomfort, and disease of the craniofacial complex. Oral health paves way for good general health and essential well-being. Aim: The present study was undertaken to determine the oral health status and treatment needs of school-going children aged 6–10 years of attending government schools in Kochi, Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study that included screening for dental caries, enamel fluorosis, dental trauma, malocclusion, and treatment needs of 533 primary government school-going children of Willingdon Island, Kochi. Children were assessed as per the World Health Organization Oral Health Assessment Form for Children given in the year 2013. A stratified random sampling method was followed. The means and percentages were calculated, and comparison was done using ANOVA, Chi-square test, and Student's t-test to find the difference in proportion. All values were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. Results: The dentition status of the surveyed children revealed a prevalence of dental caries in the study was found to be 50.09% (267). A significant difference was observed between different class students concerning mean DMFT scores (F = 8.5660, P < 0.05). The survey also revealed that the prevalence of enamel fluorosis, traumatic dental injuries, and malocclusion was found to be 3.38%, 1.69%, and 2.63%, respectively. Treatment needs status among students revealed that 85 students needed a preventive or routine treatment and a minimum of two students needed immediate (urgent) treatment who were referred to a dental hospital and 9.76% of students needed Orthodontic intervention. Conclusion: The high prevalence rate shows that further follow-up and awareness among the teachers, parents, and students regarding dental caries, oral health, and dental hygiene is needed. Further, studies of similar nature on a larger sample are required to correlate the prevalence of dental caries in the target population with other socio-behavioral factors.

Akhil K Mohan,1,2 Minsa M,3 T R Santhosh Kumar,3 G S Vinod Kumar1 1Nano Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS), Cancer Biology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India; 2Research Centre, Department of Biotechnology, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India; 3Cancer Research Programme-1, Bio-Innovation Center (BIC), Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, IndiaCorrespondence: G S Vinod Kumar, Tel +91 471 2781217, Fax +91 471 2348096, Email gsvinod@rgcb.res.inPurpose: Peptide-based therapy is a promising strategy for cancer treatment because of its low drug resistance. However, the major challenge is their inability to target cancer cells specifically. So, a targeted nano-delivery system that could deliver therapeutic peptides selectively to cancer cells to stimulate their action is highly desirable. This study aims to deliver the antitumor peptide, Pep5, to breast tumor cells selectively using a targeting peptide functionalised multi-layered PLGA-PEI nanoparticles.Methods: In this study, Pep5 entrapped PLGA-PEI (Pep5-PPN) dual layered nanoparticles were developed. These nanoparticles were decorated with TKD (Pep5-TPPN) on their surface for site-specific delivery of Pep5 to breast tumor cells. The particles were then characterized using various instrumental analyses. In vitro cytotoxicity of the particles was evaluated in estrogen receptor positive (ER+ve) and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. An ex vivo tumor spheroid model was used to analyze the antitumor activity of the particles.Results: Uniformly round Pep5-TPPN particles were synthesized with an average diameter of 420.8 ± 14.72 nm. The conjugation of PEI over Pep5-PLGA nanoparticles shifted the zeta potential from − 11.6 ± 2.16 mV to +20.01 ± 2.97 mV. In vitro cytotoxicity analysis proved that TKD conjugation to nanoparticles enhanced the antitumor activity of Pep5 in tested breast cancer cells. Pep5-TPPN induced cytoskeletal damage and apoptosis in the tested cells, which showed that the mechanism of action of Pep5 is conserved but potentiated. Active targeting of Pep5 suppressed the tumor growth in ex vivo spheroid models.Conclusion: A multi-layered nanoparticle functionalized with dual peptide was fabricated for active tumor targeting, which stimulated Pep5 activity to reduce the tumor growth in vitro and ex vivo.Graphical Abstract: Keywords: peptide, Pep 5, tumor, cancer, breast

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of pomegranate peel powder (PPP) supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, haemato-biochemical parameters and return over feed cost in broiler chickens. A total of 240 unsexed day-old broiler chicks were randomly allocated into four treatment groups with four replicates in each. The control group (T1) was fed with a standard basal diet as per BIS (2007). Groups T2, T3, and T4 were fed the basal diet with 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 % level of PPP, respectively for six weeks. Results revealed that the mean final body weight and body weight gain were significantly higher in T4 as compared to the other dietary treatments. The feed conversion ratio was better in T4 and T3 groups as compared to the T1 and T2 groups. There were no differences in carcass characteristics among the dietary treatments. The serum concentration of triglycerides and cholesterol were significantly reduced in T4 and T3 groups as compared to the control. The return over feed cost was higher T3 and T4 groups than the control group. Thus, it can be concluded that dietary supplementation of 1% pomegranate peel powder improved growth performance, production efficiency, blood lipid profile and return over feed cost in broiler chickens.

We present an analysis of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) from the Carnegie Supernova Project I and II and extend the Hubble diagram from optical to near-infrared wavelengths ( uBgVriYJH ). We calculate the Hubble constant, H _0 , using various distance calibrators: Cepheids, the tip of the red giant branch (TRGB), and surface brightness fluctuations (SBFs). Combining all methods of calibration, we derive H _0 = 71.76 ± 0.58 (stat) ± 1.19 (sys) km s ^−1 Mpc ^−1 from the B band and H _0 = 73.22 ± 0.68 (stat) ± 1.28 (sys) km s ^−1 Mpc ^−1 from the H band. By assigning equal weight to the Cepheid, TRGB, and SBF calibrators, we derive the systematic errors required for consistency in the first rung of the distance ladder, resulting in a systematic error of 1.2 ∼ 1.3 km s ^−1 Mpc ^−1 in H _0 . As a result, relative to the statistics-only uncertainty, the tension between the late-time H _0 we derive by combining the various distance calibrators and the early-time H _0 from the cosmic microwave background is reduced. The highest precision in SN Ia luminosity is found in the Y band (0.12 ± 0.01 mag), as defined by the intrinsic scatter ( σ _int ). We revisit SN Ia Hubble residual-host mass correlations and recover previous results that these correlations do not change significantly between the optical and near-infrared wavelengths. Finally, SNe Ia that explode beyond 10 kpc from their host centers exhibit smaller dispersion in their luminosity, confirming our earlier findings. A reduced effect of dust in the outskirts of hosts may be responsible for this effect.

Perishable food post-harvest loss is a major global concern, and research is currently concentrated on creating active packaging materials. This research is focused in multiple antioxidants intercalated Layered Double Hydroxides (LDH) that are combined in one matrix, and their overall effect that defines as synergism, which successfully preserves perishable food by releasing antioxidants slowly. For this purpose, a hybrid LDH material of ascorbic-LDH (AA-LDH), salicylic-LDH (SA-LDH), and citric-LDH (CA-LDH) was synthesized, characterized and incorporate into electrospun nanofiber mat to be used as a potential active packaging material. Antioxidants intercalated Mg/Al LDH was synthesized and successfully characterized by PXRD, FTIR, XPS, Raman, SEM, and EDS. The shifts in the LDHs’ peaks in PXRD indicated the successful incorporation of antioxidants into LDH. FTIR, Raman, and XPS data clearly indicated the establishment of metal-oxygen bonds by observing the characteristic peaks. Morphological features and the layered structure were clearly observed by SEM images. Antioxidants were slowly released from the LDHs, and it was evaluated for time intervals up to 24 h. The hybrid LDH material exhibited the highest antioxidant activity with an IC _50 value of 132.5 μ g ml ^−1 , where 234.1, 354.5, and 402.2 μ g ml ^−1 were reported for ascorbic-LDH, salicylic-LDH, and citric-LDH respectively. The hybrid LDH material incorporated electrospun mats showed the best antibacterial activity against the tested bacteria and clearly evidenced the synergistic activity of the combination of the nanohybrids. It has showed a minimal bacterial growth compared to the other control samples (∼2.41 log CFU/ml). The shelf life of cherry tomatoes was studied at different physiochemical parameters with and without hybrid LDH material incorporated electrospun mats. The fabricated mat showed an extended shelf life of 42 days for cherry tomatoes, whereas the control sample showed a shelf life of 17 days. It is concluded that hybrid LDH material exhibited synergistic performance and the best antioxidant activity when comparing with mono LDH materials.

In the present study, ab initio density functional theory calculations were used to assess the effect of first-row transition metals (X = Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn) on the stability of Zr _0.5 N _0.5 nitrides. Specifically, the structural, mechanical, and electronic properties were studied to evaluate their applicability in high-temperature structural applications such as coating. The heat of formation for all X-doped Zr _0.5 N _0.5 ternaries were found to be lower than that of the undoped Zr _0.5 N _0.5 . Specifically, Mn-doped Zr _0.5 N _0.5 was observed to be the most thermodynamically stable structure, due to its lowest heat of formation. The density of states for both the undoped and doped Zr _0.5 N _0.5 nitrides indicated full metallic behavior and observed that doping with 3d-transition metals reduce the density of states at the Fermi energy, thereby enhancing the electronic stability. Furthermore, mechanical stability was observed in these nitrides with increased melting temperatures expect for Zr _0.5 N _0.5 doped Ti. Since Zr _0.5 N _0.5 doped with X is thermodynamically, electronically, and mechanically stable, they are deemed suitable for high-temperature structural applications especially Zr _0.5 N _0.5 doped Mn.

The commercialization of lithium-ion batteries has revolutionized the field of energy storage, yet their usage of organic electrolytes has led to significant safety concerns. Solid-state electrolytes have emerged as a promising solution to these issues, enabling the development of high-performance solid-state lithium batteries. The NASICON-type solid electrolyte Li _1.3 Al _0.3 Ti _1.7 P _3 O _12 (LATP) has demonstrated excellent properties and significant potential. This study involves the solid-state synthesis of LATP electrolytes doped with Cobalt and Silicon. Furthermore, adding 8% LiBr into LATP-0.04 significantly enhanced ionic conductivity, reaching a value of 3.50 × 10 ^−4 S cm ^−1 . This can be linked to lithium salt filling vacant spaces between grains, resulting in a significant drop in grain boundary resistances. The electrochemical analysis through Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV) indicates that the investigated material demonstrates the capability to sustain stability and functionality even under the influence of elevated voltages, notably up to 5.45 V. These findings imply that optimal cobalt doping and Lithium salt contribute to superior ionic conductivity compared to pristine LATP.

Vegetation species mapping using airborne imaging spectroscopy yields accurate results and is important for advancing conservation objectives and biogeographic studies. As these data become more readily available owing to the upcoming launch of spaceborne imaging spectrometers, it is necessary to understand how these data can be used to consistently classify species across large geographic scales. However, few studies have attempted to map species across multiple ecosystems; therefore, little is known regarding the effect of intra-specific variation on the mapping of a single species across a wide range of environments and among varying backgrounds of other non-target species. To explore this effect, we developed and tested species classification models for Metrosideros polymorpha , a highly polymorphic canopy species endemic to Hawai’i, which is found in a diverse array of ecosystems. We compared the accuracies of support vector machine (SVM) and random forest models trained on canopy reflectance data from each of eight distinct ecosystems (ecosystem-specific) and a universal model trained on data from all ecosystems. When applied to ecosystem-specific test datasets, the ecosystem-specific models outperformed the universal model; however, the universal model retained high (>81%) accuracies across all ecosystems. Additionally, we found that models from ecosystems with broad variation in M. polymorpha canopy traits, as estimated using chemometric equations applied to canopy spectra, accurately predicted M. polymorpha in other ecosystems. While species classifications across ecosystems can yield accurate results, these results will require sampling procedures that capture the intra-specific variation of the target species.

This study focuses on developing and characterizing multifunctional composites based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) epoxy matrix. The aim is to enhance fire resistance and electrical conductivity properties for applications in various fields. To achieve this, aluminum tri-hydroxide (ATH) was incorporated as a flame retardant (FR) agent, while polyaniline (PANI) was added to impart electrical conductivity. The composites were categorized into three groups: the first containing flame retardant (FR), the second containing PANI for conductivity, and the third containing both PANI and FR for combined effects. E 60-FP emerged as the optimal multifunctional composite, exhibiting superior mechanical properties among the tested formulations. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results provided valuable insights into the thermal stability of E 60-FP, revealing that it retained 42% of its initial mass at a temperature of 600 °C. Additionally, the composite achieved a V-0 rating in the UL 94 test, confirming its excellent fire resistance. Notably, E 60-FP displayed impressive mechanical strength, with a tensile strength of 7.2 MPa and a tensile modulus of 1117.6 MPa. Its flexural strength and modulus were measured at 31.2 MPa and 2800.2 MPa, respectively. Furthermore, the composite E 60-FP exhibited remarkable electrical conductivity, measuring 6.1 × 10 ^–6 S cm ^−1 . These findings highlight the potential of DGEBA epoxy composites containing PANI and ATH as promising materials for applications requiring fire resistance and electrical conductivity properties.

Primary mesenteric angiosarcoma is a rare soft tissue tumour accounting for 1%–2% of soft tissue tumours. Because of the ubiquity of blood vessels and lymphatics, it can occur anywhere with a poor prognosis. To the best extent of our literature search, this type of tumour is sparsely reported in our environment; we hereby report a case of primary mesenteric angiosarcoma in a 32-year-old man who presented with acute abdomen, intraperitoneal haemorrhage, and shock. Abdominal ultrasound revealed intraperitoneal collection, and intraoperative findings revealed haemoperitoneum 1.5l with vascular cystic tumour at the mesentery close to the duodenojejunal junction. Histopathological examination of the resected specimen revealed angiosarcoma. The patient was seen last at follow-up in early 2022.

Lama M M Al-Mehaisen,1 Ismaiel A Mahfouz,1 Khaldoun Khamaiseh,1 Soha N AL-Beitawe,2 Oqba AH Al-Kuran3 1Faculty of Medicine, Al Balqa Applied University, Al Salt, Jordan; 2Faculty of Medicine, Al-Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan; 3Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, JordanCorrespondence: Lama M M Al-Mehaisen, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine – Al Balqa Applied University, B O Box 206, Al Salt, Jordan, Tel +96253491111, Email lmehaisen@bau.edu.joBackground: The latest threat to world health is coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), and the exact death rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection is still to be explored and varies widely throughout the world. Inactivated virus vaccines, recombinant viral vaccines, subunit vaccines, DNA vaccines, and attenuated vaccinations have all been investigated in the hunt for an optimal SARS-CoV vaccine. Some women had menstrual abnormalities after immunisation, including heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), frequent bleeding (metrorrhagia/polymenorrhea), and postmenopausal haemorrhage. Vaccine-induced thrombocytopenia might be one of the underlying reasons.Purpose: The aim to carry out this study was to survey by recruiting the female participants who were vaccinated with one or two shots of the available vaccine and observe short-term menstrual changes.Patients and Methods: This web-based survey cross-sectional study included women who were above 18 years, had the vaccine at least one month (one menstrual period) before participating in the study, had access to social media platforms and were willing to take part in the study. Women were excluded if, at the time of the study, they were pregnant or had amenorrhea of more than 6 months.Results: Analysing the menstrual flow more, we saw that 24.5% of the patients had increased flow, while 15.5% had reduced flow which for both changes in the flow, the p-value was 0.017. However, 23.65 showed delayed periods, and 51.6% showed no changes. The changes in the timing were significant, indicating a p-value of 0.008. The study will be a significant contribution to the literature as this pandemic is new, and the vaccination against COVID-19 is still in the trial phase.Conclusion: We observed in our study that there was a change in the menstruation timings and flow after vaccination. However, further longitudinal studies are needed to conclude the impact of the COVID-19 vaccine on the menstruation cycle.Keywords: COVID-19, menstrual abnormalities, menstrual changes, menstrual flow, short-term effect, vaccination

Many long-term childhood cancer survivors suffer from treatment- related late effects, which may occur in any organ and include a wide spectrum of conditions. Long-term follow-up (LTFU) is recommended to facilitate early diagnosis and to ensure better health outcomes. Due to the heterogeneity of these sequelae, di fferent specialists work together in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions. Experts from both pediatric and internal medicine are involved in age-appropriate care by providing a transition process. Hence, LTFU of childhood cancer survivors is a prototypic example of multidisciplinary care for patients with complex needs treated in a specialized setting. International collaborations of healthcare professionals and scientists involved in LTFU of childhood cancer survivors, such as the International Guideline Harmonization Group, compile surveillance recommendations that can be clinically adopted all over the world. These global networks of clinicians and researchers make a join t effort to address gaps in knowledge, increase visibility and awareness of cancer survivorship and provide an excellent example of how progress in clinical care and scientifi c research may be achieved by international and multidisciplinary collaboration.