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Invadopodia are finger-like protrusions that are commonly spotted at the membrane of the invasive cancer cell. These structures are a major cause of death among cancer patients through metastasis process. Signal transduction stimulated upon contact between ligand and membrane receptors is identified as one of key factors in invadopodia formation. In this study, a time-dependent mathematical model of signal and ligand is investigated numerically. The moving boundary of plasma membrane is taken as a zero-level set function and is moved by the velocity that accounted as the difference of gradient between intra-cellular signal and extra-cellular ligand. The model is solved using a combination of ghost with linear extrapolation and finite difference methods. The results showed that the stimulation of signal from membrane associated ligand consequently moved the plasma membrane outward as time increases. The highest densities of signal and ligand are recorded on the membrane and slowly diffused into intra-cellular and extra-cellular regions, respectively.

Low-cost green ceramic hollow fiber membranes (CHFM) were successfully designed and fabricated from the industrial waste ash, palm oil fuel ash (POFA) via phase inversion-based extrusion/sintering techniques for water filtration application. The extrusion process parameters such as suspension viscosity, air gap distance, and bore fluid flow rate were systematically explored to produce the membrane with desired morphology. A high suspension viscosity would result in a small macro-voids structure. Moreover, a high air gap distance would induce fiber with long macro-voids structure, while a low bore fluid flow rate would lead to the formation of distorted lumen structure. The effect of sintering temperature toward CHFM was also studied and characterized. An increase in the sintering temperature improved the membrane bending strength, but also afflicted the flux performance due to lower porosity and higher tortuosity. The developed membranes achieved excellent bending strengths of >75 MPa at lower sintering temperatures than the alternative ceramic counterparts, due to the formation of the eutectic liquid during sintering. The relatively low sintering temperature of POFA-derived CHFMs could reduce the energy consumption and sintering duration, which could be more economically attractive than their ceramic counterparts, thus benefiting industrial users.

The fluid flow with chemical reaction is one of well-known research areas in the field of computational fluid dynamic. It is potentially useful in the modelling of flow on a nuclear reactor. Motivated by the implementation of the flow in the industrial application, the aim of this study is to explore the time-dependent squeeze flow of magnetohydrodynamic Jeffrey fluid over permeable medium in the influences of Soret and Dufour, heat source/sink and chemical reaction. The presence of joule heating, joule dissipation and radiative heat transfer are analyzed. The flow is induced due to compress of two surfaces. Conversion of partial differential equations (PDEs) into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) is accomplished by imposing similarity variables. Then, the governing equations are resolved using Keller-box approach. The present outcomes are compared with previously outcomes in the literature to validate the precision of present outcomes. Both outcomes are shown in close agreement. The tabular and graphical results demonstrate that wall shear stress and velocity profile accelerate with the surfaces moving towards one another. Moreover, the concentration, temperature and velocity profiles decreasing for the increment of Hartmann numbers and Jeffrey fluid parameters. The impacts of heat generation/absorption, joule dissipation and Dufour numbers enhance the heat transfer rate and temperature profile. In contrast, the temperature profile drops and the heat transfer rate boosts when thermal radiation increases. The concentration profile decelerates, and the mass transfer rate elevates with raise in Soret number. Also, the mass transfer rate rises for destructive chemical reaction and contrary result is noted for convective chemical reaction.

The heat and mass transfer on time dependent hydrodynamic squeeze flow of Jeffrey nanofluid across two plates over permeable medium in the slip condition with heat generation/absorption, thermal radiation and chemical reaction are investigated. The impacts of Brownian motion and thermophoresis is examined in the Buongiorno's nanofluid model. Conversion of the governing partial differential equations to the ordinary differential equations is conducted via similarity transformation. The dimensionless equations are solved by imposing numerical method of Keller-box. The outputs are compared with previous reported works in the journals for the validation of the present outputs and found in proper agreement. The behavior of velocity, temperature, and nanoparticles concentration profiles by varying the pertinent parameters are examined. Findings portray that the acceleration of the velocity profile and the wall shear stress is due to the squeezing of plates. Furthermore, the velocity, temperature and concentration profile decline with boost in Hartmann number and ratio of relaxation to retardation times. It is discovered that the rate of heat transfer and temperature profile increase when viscous dissipation, thermophoresis and heat source/sink rises. In contrast, the increment of thermal radiation reduces the temperature and enhances the heat transfer rate. Besides, the mass transfer rate decelerates for increasing Brownian motion in nanofluid, while it elevates when chemical reaction and thermophoresis increases.

The heat and mass transfer characteristics on hydromagnetic squeeze flow of Jeffrey nanofluid between two plates over a permeable medium by slip condition with the influences of viscous dissipation and chemical reaction is examined. Buongiorno’s nanofluid model, which includes Brownian motion and thermophoresis impacts, is implemented in this research. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed to the nonlinear ordinary differential equations via asimilarity transformation. The transformed equations are solved by employing numerical techniques of Keller-box. A comparison of the skin friction coefficient, Nusselt and Sherwood numbers with reported outputs in the journals are carried out to validate the present outputs. An excellent agreement is found. The results show that the squeezing of plates accelerates the velocity and wall shear stress. Furthermore, the velocity, temperature and concentration profile decrease when the Hartmann number and ratio of relaxation and retardation times increases. The raise in thermophoresis and viscous dissipation elevate the temperature profile and the heat transfer rate. Furthermore, the mass transfer rate declines due to the strong Brownian motion in the nanofluid, whereas it increases with the addition of chemical reaction and thermophoresis.

Although there are several studies conducted by linguistics researchers on the differences between the linguistic styles of female and male writers, there are not many studies conducted on the use of boosters in academic writing. Boosters are used to convince and emphasize statements made. This study analyzes the regularity of boosters used in the Introduction section of Ten Research Articles (RAs). The influence of gender differences in the use of specific boosters will also be looked at. A document analysis method was chosen as the 10 RAs were analyzed as the corpus in this study. The findings showed that male writers used more boosters than female writers. Even though the number of words for the female writers was more than the male writers, it did not affect the number of boosters used in the Introduction section of those articles. In conclusion, it can be deduced from the analysis that both the female and male writers used boosters to highlight their claims or their beliefs regardless of their gender, while the use of boosters was more evident among the male RAs as the male writers seemed to be more direct in illustrating and mentioning their claims.

The ability of rural entrepreneurs to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic greatly depends on their knowledge of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to support online business. In this study, online surveys were conducted to assess the readiness and acceptance of rural entrepreneurs in adopting to the pandemic using the available technologies. Data collected were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics using ANOVA. Online training modules were designed based on their specific needs. Although participants indicated that their frequency and skills of using the electronic devices or applications had generally increased or improved after the training, the increment was not statistically significant ([alpha]=0.05). This indicated that while the participants, to some extent, benefited from the online training provided, there has not been a significant impact on them.

Vocabulary is often neglected despite being one of the most crucial aspects of language acquisition. Due to the lack of emphasis on vocabulary learning, ESL students have issues in learning the English language effectively, which resulted in low-level language proficiency. Hence, this paper attempts to address this problem by introducing Visual Vocabulary to learn the target words. The main research question: How effective is the use of the Visual Vocabulary to learn vocabulary for Form Two learners? To investigate the effectiveness of the use of the Visual Vocabulary, 60 students of Form Two from sub-urban schools in Ipoh and Teluk Intan, Perak, were selected. These students were instructed to learn a total of 45 target words and Visual Vocabulary was applied to assist them to learn and simultaneously understand the meaning of the target words. The independent sample t-test, paired sample t-test, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the scores of the pre and post-tests. The score comparison and total improvement score in percentage were also presented. The paired sample t-test results are (t=-17.85, df=29, p<0.05) for the experimental group and (t=-4.85, df=29, p<0.05) for the control group. Based on the stated results, both experimental and control groups improved significantly (p=.000*) in the post-test with a mean difference of 15.62. The results of this study confirm the effectiveness of Visual Vocabulary in learning and understanding the target words. This approach is proven to increase the success rate of vocabulary learning among ESL learners.

Author(s): Jie Cong Yeoh [1]; Nazhan Afeef Bin Mohd Ariff [2]; Larry Ellee Nyanti (corresponding author) [3] Dear Editor, Emergency cricothyroidotomy is a guideline-advocated, potentially life-saving procedure.[sup.[1]] While its true [...]

Stroke survivors often suffer significant neurovascular and homeostatic disruptions due to oxidative stress, which exacerbates brain damage and impairs postural stability. The imbalance between prooxidants and antioxidants, particularly following ischemic stroke, increases the production of free radicals like reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, while depleting endogenous antioxidants. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), an enzymatic antioxidant, has the potential to mitigate this oxidative damage. This review aimed to explore the role of SOD as a biomarker and therapeutic target in improving trunk control and postural stability in stroke patients after rehabilitation. A comprehensive search of five databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane Central) for full-text English studies published between 2012 and 2024 identified five relevant articles. Although the available studies indicated significant differences in serum SOD levels among stroke patients post-intervention, the review highlighted a substantial research gap, emphasizing the limited evidence on SOD's role in post-stroke rehabilitation. These findings underscore the need for further research to explore the potential of SOD in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes for stroke survivors. Future studies focusing on key biomarkers like SOD could provide neuro-rehabilitation specialists with a better understanding of therapeutic mechanisms and guide the development of more effective rehabilitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Optimizing the quality of life (QOL) for individuals undergoing intricate medical interventions is a pivotal objective in healthcare. Hemipelvectomy poses distinctive challenges for patients. This study aims to evaluate the QOL of survivors who have undergone tumour-related hemipelvectomy, with the intention of informing strategies to enhance their care and support. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of clinical data from 63 patients who underwent either external (pelvic amputation) or internal (limb-salvage pelvic resection) hemipelvectomy for musculoskeletal tumours at a tertiary referral centre was conducted. Survivors with a minimum 6-month follow-up were included. QOL evaluation utilized the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), consisting of functional, symptomatic, and global health scales. Results: Sixteen patients met the study criteria, yielding a response rate of 93.8%. The mean global health and QOL score for the cohort stood at 81.11 (SD=9.16), with no discernible disparity between external and internal hemipelvectomy patients. Post-internal hemipelvectomy individuals demonstrated elevated role functional scores (p=0.034), whereas post-external hemipelvectomy survivors exhibited higher physical functioning but lower emotional functioning scores. Chronic pain was a significant determinant affecting QOL, particularly among post-internal hemipelvectomy survivors. Despite challenges, patients displayed remarkable adaptability, reflected in elevated cognitive and emotional scores. Crucially, all patients expressed satisfaction with their treatment outcomes. Conclusion: This study highlights the impact of chronic pain on QOL of survivors, with distinct functional limitations observed across patient groups. The findings highlight patients' resilience and contentment with treatment, offering valuable insights to optimize their holistic care and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Restrictive lung disease (RLD) is a known complication in scoliosis management, potentially leading to reduced body mass index (BMI) due to increased resting metabolic rate. This reduction in BMI may predict thoracic insufficiency syndrome (TIS) development in scoliosis patients. This retrospective study investigated the correlation between BMI, spinal deformity, and pulmonary function in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Methods: This retrospective study included patients aged 13 to 24 years with confirmed AIS who underwent surgical interventions at a single tertiary center. The spinal deformity was assessed by measuring the Cobb spinal curve angle on anterior-posterior plain radiographs. Pre-operative pulmonary function tests, including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), were conducted. BMI was calculated using standard measurements and calculations. Correlations between all parameters were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient (r). Results: Thirty-eight AIS patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 16.7 years. Significant positive correlations were observed between BMI and pre-operative FVC (p = 0.018; r = 0.38) as well as FEV1 (p = 0.009; r = 0.417). However, the correlation between spinal deformity and BMI was not significant (p = 0.363). Conclusion: Poor pulmonary function significantly impacted BMI in AIS patients, with decreased BMI potentially predicting TIS. Monitoring pulmonary function and BMI is crucial in AIS management to identify TIS risk and optimize treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to assess serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in ambulating stroke patients, focusing on potential correlations with cardiovascular risk factors and overall obesity. Materials and methods: Sixty stroke patients (63.3% male, 36.7% female, mean age: 57 years) participated. Quantikine ELISA kit (SL0371Hu) was used to determine post-stroke serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels. Patient demographics, including body mass index, systolic, and diastolic blood pressures, were recorded and computed to assess patients' overall obesity status and blood pressure. Results: The mean serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor level was 119.25 (SD = 11.40) pg/ml. No significant effect of selected anthropometric indices and cardiovascular risk factors, including age (p = 0.493), overall obesity status (p = 0.848), systolic and diastolic blood pressures (p = 0.840 and 0.540, respectively), on the serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Conclusion: In ambulating stroke patients, the serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels were within the normal range but tended towards the lower limit. Consequently, it is crucial to develop and implement medical and rehabilitation programs specifically aimed at increasing serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in post-stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Early onset of musculoskeletal (MS) disease in dental students are among the latest findings which escalate concerns in the dental profession. Various reasons were related to these findings and early risk screening is crucial to interfere with the causative factors. The aim of this study is to evaluate the symptoms of work-related musculoskeletal disease (WRMD) in dental students using Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) as part of initial ergonomic risk screening. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on the final year dental students through convenience sampling. Data was gathered using CMDQ questionnaire which also includes sociodemographic and working profile of the respondents. Descriptive data were tabulated. Results: Out of 61 dental students, 95% were females with the mean age of 24.22 ± 0.69 years. The lower back body region scored the highest total FDI followed by the neck. The lower back and right wrist also attained maximum individual MS discomfort score. The most severe discomfort was reported at the neck (21%). It was observed that 70% of the respondents experienced moderate to severe discomfort at their neck region followed by right shoulder (52%). Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it showed that the dental students' body parts were affected by WRMD especially on the lower back and neck. Severe discomfort was affecting the neck and shoulders. Maximum individual MS score findings for the lower back and right wrist support the need of an initial ergonomic risk assessment conduct for the individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pixel binning, a feature of high-megapixel smartphone cameras, exhibits performance comparable to traditional cameras. The field of photogrammetry has explored and adopted most kinds of technology, hence, pixel binning too should be adopted into forensic photogrammetry. This study evaluates the application of pixel binning technology in forensic photogrammetry, specifically in 3D reconstruction at crime scenes. A simulated crime scene conducted at the UTM-PDRM lab was captured using smartphone cameras of 12MP and 50MP, and a 20MP DSLR camera. First, the cameras were calibrated to ensure their stability. Following the image capture, the data were processed to generate 3D point cloud models of the simulated crime scene. The geometric parameters resulting from the camera calibration were discussed. The 3D point cloud model by DSLR camera exhibited better visual quality than the smartphone cameras. This finding was supported by an analysis of overlapping images by each camera and a side-by-side comparison of the models. Measurements from the smartphones 1, 2 and the DSLR camera were compared to conventional Vernier calipers used in crime scene documentation. The resulting Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) differences were approximately ±5.62mm, ±5.59mm, and ±5.40mm, respectively. In conclusion, the pixel binning of smartphone cameras was able to produce reliable accuracy but requires stability in technology for 3D reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methanol (CH3OH) is a versatile compound used in various industries. Catalytic reactors used in CH3OH production are expensive due to high energy and raw material costs. Multi-objective optimization (MOO) is used to optimize CH3OH production, but it is still lacking. Researchers use alternative strategies or modify existing ones to achieve better results. This study applied model-based optimization using an ASPEN Plus simulator and Multi-objective Ant Lion Optimization (MOALO) to address the issue. The results revealed the highest conversion and product rate, with the lowest energy cost, side product, and bare module cost, CBM. The decision variable plots indicate that the reactor's pressure significantly affects the optimal solution. This study provides valuable insight into optimizing CH3OH production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pneumonia, asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and the most recent epidemic, COVID-19, are the most common lung diseases associated with respiratory difficulties. However, existing health monitoring systems use large and in-contact devices, which causes an uncomfortable experience. The difficulty in acquiring breathing signals for non-stationary individuals limits the use of ultra-wideband radar for breathing monitoring. This is due to ineffective signal clutter removal and body movement removal algorithms for collecting accurate breathing signals. This paper proposes a breathing signal analysis for non-contact physiological monitoring to improve quality of life. The radar-based sensors are used for collecting the breathing signal for each subject. The processed signal has been analyzed using continuous wavelet transform (CWT) and wavelet coherence with the Monte Carlo method. The finding shows that there is a significant difference between the three types of breathing patterns; normal, high, and slow. The findings may provide a comprehensive framework for processing and interpreting breathing signals, resulting in breakthroughs in respiratory healthcare, illness management, and overall well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]