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Background and Aim: McCoy laryngoscope and video laryngoscopes (VLS) are being increasingly used in practice as they offer advantages over Macintosh laryngoscope in the management of difficult airway. The present study was aimed at comparing McCoy laryngoscope and The Anaesthetist Society Scope (TAScope) VLS regarding ease of intubation using Intubation Difficulty Scale (IDS) score in patients with an anticipated difficult airway. Methods: A total of 80 patients of either sex, belonging to the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II, undergoing surgery under general anesthesia and having simplified airway risk index score of 4 and above were randomized to two groups, McCoy group (n = 40) and TAScope group (n = 40). The primary objective of the study was to compare ease of intubation using IDS score in both the groups. Secondary objectives included time for intubation (TI), hemodynamic stress response, and incidence of oropharyngeal trauma. Results: Mean IDS score was significantly lower in TAScope group in comparison to McCoy group (0.9 ± 1.35 vs. 3.57 ± 2.46, P < 0.0001). The need for multiple intubation attempts, laryngeal pressure, and excess lifting force was significantly less in TAScope group (P = 0.0493, P = 0.0001 and P = 0.0007, respectively). TI was significantly longer in TAScope group in comparison to McCoy group (45.27 ± 6.06 s vs. 30.95 ± 9.13 s, P < 0.0001). The incidence of oropharyngeal trauma and hemodynamic changes was comparable in both the groups. Conclusion: TAScope is superior to McCoy laryngoscope for intubation in adult patients with anticipated difficult airway as it improves glottic view and facilitates easy intubation.

A field experiment was performed to assess the impact of potassium co-amended with boron at different application rates on organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and boron in the soil, also in terms of plant height, spike length, pedicel length, leaf area, spike weight, grain weight, biological yield, fresh biomass and dry biomass of wheat under the dry climate of Uthal. Randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used with the combined application of both K and B fertilizers with a replicate of three times, treatments were T0 control, T1 70 K kg×ha–1 and 0.6 B kg×ha–1, T2 140 K and 1.2 B kg×ha–1, T3 210 K and 1.8 B kg×ha–1 of potassium and boron respectively. Furthermore, boron was applied in three split doses (time of sowing, maturity of plant, and booting stage); whereas potassium was used in two split doses (before sowing and maturity). The obtained results demonstrated that plant height was increased, ranging from 77.68 to 83.00 cm, with T3, biological yield 14,150.0–19,186.67 kg×ha–1 with T3, in-soil N 0.04–0.069% with T3, in-soil P 3.42–3.89 mg×kg–1 with T3, in-soil K 82.00–120.00 mg×kg–1 with T3, in-soil B 0.11–0.22 mg×kg–1 with T3 than control treatment. The uptake NPK, and B by the wheat plant was increased, ranging from 1.17–1.66% with T3, 0.33–0.54 mg×kg–1 with T3, 2.32–2.72 mg×kg–1 with T3, and 1.12–1.14 mg×kg–1 with T3 as compared with the control treatment. The plant fresh and dry biomasses and soil organic matter were increased at T3 over that of the control soil. Overall, the findings of this study indicated that the co-application of potassium and boron at 210 and 1.8 kg×ha–1 doses can be successfully used to enhance grain and yield parameters of wheat, particularly those cultivated in dry climatic conditions.

The WRKY gene family consists of unique transcription factors (TFs) found exclusively in plants. These TFs play a crucial role in regulating how plants respond to various abiotic stresses, such as saline-alkaline conditions, temperature fluctuations, drought, UV radiation and others. Scientists have been progressively studying the roles and mechanisms of WRKY in several plant species, including both model plants and essential agricultural crops. This study focus has emerged due to the understanding that alkaline and saline soil stressors considerably impede global agricultural productivity. Multiple research efforts have underscored the significant biological functions of WRKY TFs in assisting plants in coping with various abiotic challenges, particularly in enhancing their ability to withstand alkaline-salt stress. This review aims to investigate the structural capabilities of WRKY TFs and their impact on plant responses to alkaline and salt stresses. Additionally, it seeks to elucidate the role of these TFs in alleviating diverse abiotic and biotic stressors. The objective of this review study is to provide comprehensive insights into the current state of the field and the importance of WRKY TFs in regulating plant responses to salt and alkaline stress.

The environmental conditions encompassing plants exert a significant impact on their appropriate growth and development. It is of utmost importance to investigate the mechanisms and signaling cascades underlying the tolerance of plants to abiotic stress in order to enhance the quality of crops. Plant growth and development processes are significantly impacted by abiotic stresses, which are intricately linked to their surroundings. Plants exhibit prompt genetic and metabolic network responses, mostly through signaling networks involving transcription factors that respond to stress, including WRKY, MYB, bZIP, AP2/EREBP, and NAC. Among these WRKY TFs transcription factors, fulfill a pivotal function in a diverse range of stress responses and developmental mechanisms. WRKY TFs greatly assist plants in coping with abiotic stress. These transcription factors oversee the control of several target gene categories and active involvement in numerous signaling cascades in plants through their interaction with the W-box cis-acting elements located in the promoters of these target genes.This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the signaling networks linked to WRKY TFs and their response mechanism to abiotic stress. In addition, we have explored the state of knowledge on WRKY TFs' effects on plants' response to a range of abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt, high temperatures, and cold. It elucidates the intricate molecular mechanisms by which WRKY TFs govern signaling pathways and modulate gene expression, thereby conferring stress tolerance upon plants. Moreover, we have summarized the molecular function of WRKY TFs that are involved in tolerance to biotic stress. WRKY TFs, involved in signaling networks and hormonal routes like SA and JA, aid plants in inducing resistance mechanisms and coordinating defense responses against pathogens and environmental challenges. In order to enhance agricultural sustainability and augment crop resilience towards stress, strategies to manipulate the intricate regulatory networks involving WRKY TFs need to be established.

هدفت الدراسة إلى معرفة أثر اليقظة الإستراتيجية في تحقيق الميزة التنافسـية، واعتمدت الدراسة على المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، واستعملت الاستبانة أداةً لجمع البيانات، وقد طُبِّقت على عينة، اختيرت بطريقة طبقية عشوائية، مكونة من (115) قائدًا أكاديميًا وإداريًا، وقد جرى تحليل بياناتها عبر برنامج التحليل الإحصائي (SPSS22). وتوصلت الدراسة إلى النتائج الآتية: يوجد أثر ذو دلالة إحصائية لأبعاد اليقظة الإستراتيجية (التكنولوجية، البيئية، التسويقية) في الميزة التنافسية، وعدم وجود أثر ذي دلالة إحصائية لليقظة الاجتماعية في تحقيق الميزة التنافسية في الجامعة. وتمتلك الجامعة يقظة إستراتيجية عالية، حيث حصل بعد اليقظة الاجتماعية على المرتبة الأولى، وحصل بعد اليقظة التكنولوجية على المرتبة الأخيرة، وتحقق جامعة العلوم والتكنولوجيا ميزة تنافسية عالية، فقد حصل بُعد سرعة الاستجابة على المرتبة الأولى، وحصل بُعد التجديد والابتكار على المرتبة الخامسة، ويوجد أثر ذو دلالة إحصائية للعلاقة بين اليقظة الإستراتيجية بجميع أبعادها، والميزة التنافسية، وأوصت الدراسة بضرورة نشر وتبني نظام متكامل لليقظة الإستراتيجية في الجامعة بصورةٍ منهجية، بدءًا بالتوعية به، ثم تطبيق أسسه العلمية، وتعزيز وترسيخ أبعاد ومبادئ الميزة التنافسية في الجامعة وخاصة الأبعاد المتعلقة بـ: التجديد والابتكار.

Plants encounter various stresses in their natural environments and can effectively respond to only one stress at a time. Through a complex gene network, transcription factors (TFs) such as WRKY TFs regulate a diverse array of stress responses. The clarification of the structural characteristics of WRKY proteins, along with recent advancements in molecular dynamics simulations, has shed light on the formation, stability, and interactions of DNA–protein complexes. This has provided a novel viewpoint regarding the control of WRKY TFs. The investigation of superfamilies, encompassing their historical development, diversity, and evolutionary patterns, has become feasible due to the transcriptome approach’s capacity to provide extensive and comprehensive transcripts. The significance of WRKY TFs lies in their pivotal role within several signaling cascades and regulatory networks that influence plant defense responses. The present review summarizes the functional aspects of the high-volume sequence data of WRKY TFs from different species studied to date. Moreover, a comparative analysis approach was utilized to determine the functions of the identified WRKY TFs in response to both abiotic and biotic stresses, as revealed through numerous studies on different plant species. The results of this review will be pivotal in understanding evolutionary events and the significance of WRKY TFs in the context of climate change, incorporating new scientific evidence to propose an innovative viewpoint.

Through a variety of mechanisms, including increasing the amount of readily available mineral nutrients, regulating phytohormone levels, and biocontrol of phytopathogens, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) associated with the plant rhizosphere either directly or indirectly stimulates plant growth and development. The establishment, survival, and persistence of PGPR inoculants are widely acknowledged to be contingent upon these two parameters, in addition to the intricate network of interactions within the rhizosphere. In general, the soil is a moist environment with significant amounts of carbon that have been degraded and harbors a large population of soil microbes. The rhizo-microbiome is crucial to agriculture because a wide variety of root exudates and plant cell debris attract unique and distinct patterns of microbial colonization. The rhizo-microbiome plays a crucial role in the manufacture and regulation of extracellular molecules, including hormones, secondary metabolites, antibiotics, and various signaling chemicals. Additionally, the microbial composition within the rhizo-microbiome influences soil texture enhancement. Research has shown that PGPR can be used to treat plants or inoculate plants to promote plant development. PGPR alters the physiology of the entire plant, which enhances nutrient uptake and affects the effectiveness of root activity. The specific biochemical processes of plants involved in this phenomenon are often not well understood. Nevertheless, new studies have shed light on the mechanisms via which signaling by PGPR can induce various plant responses, both at the local and systemic levels. Insufficient information is available regarding the impact of the PGPR mechanism and molecules on metabolic pathways in root characteristics. Consequently, this review will concentrate on elucidating the PGPR mechanism and identifying the essential molecules that exert influence on root-microbe interactions.

Biosurfactants-based bioremediation is considered an efficient technology to eliminate environmental pollutants including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, the precise role of rhamnolipids or lipopeptide-biosurfactants in mixed PAH dissipation, shaping microbial community structure, and influencing metabolomic profile remained unclear. In this study, results showed that the maximum PAH degradation was achieved in lipopeptide-assisted treatment (SPS), where the pyrene and phenanthrene were substantially degraded up to 74.28 % and 63.05 % respectively, as compared to rhamnolipids (SPR) and un-aided biosurfactants (SP). Furthermore, the high throughput sequencing analysis revealed a significant change in the PAH-degrading microbial community, with Proteobacteria being the predominant phylum (>98 %) followed by Bacteroidota and Firmicutes in all the treatments. Moreover, Pseudomonas and Pannonibacter were found as highly potent bacterial genera for mixed PAH degradation in SPR, SPS, and SP treatments, nevertheless, the abundance of the genus Pseudomonas was significantly enhanced (>97 %) in SPR treatment groups. On the other hand, the non-targeted metabolomic profile through UHPLC-MS/MS exhibited a remarkable change in the metabolites of amino acids, carbohydrates, and lipid metabolisms by the input of rhamnolipids or lipopeptide-biosurfactants whereas, the maximum intensities of metabolites (more than two-fold) were observed in SPR treatment. The findings of this study suggested that the aforementioned biosurfactants can play an indispensable role in mixed PAH degradation as well as seek to offer new insights into shifts in PAH-degrading microbial communities and their metabolic function, which can guide the development of more efficient and targeted strategies for complete removal of organic pollutants such as PAH from the contaminated environment.

Abstract Background 2-Pyrone-4,6-dicarboxylic acid (PDC), a chemically stable pseudoaromatic dicarboxylic acid, represents a promising building block for the manufacture of biodegradable polyesters. Microbial production of PDC has been extensively investigated, but low titers and yields have limited industrial applications. Results In this study, a multi-step biosynthesis strategy for the microbial production of PDC was demonstrated using engineered Escherichia coli whole-cell biocatalysts. The PDC biosynthetic pathway was first divided into three synthetic modules, namely the 3-dehydroshikimic acid (DHS) module, the protocatechuic acid (PCA) module and the PDC module. Several effective enzymes, including 3-dehydroshikimate dehydratase for the PCA module as well as protocatechuate 4,5-dioxygenase and 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate-6-semialdehyde dehydrogenase for the PDC module were isolated and characterized. Then, the highly efficient whole-cell bioconversion systems for producing PCA and PDC were constructed and optimized, respectively. Finally, the efficient multi-step biosynthesis of PDC from glucose was achieved by smoothly integrating the above three biosynthetic modules, resulting in a final titer of 49.18 g/L with an overall 27.2% molar yield, which represented the highest titer for PDC production from glucose reported to date. Conclusions This study lays the foundation for the microbial production of PDC, including one-step de novo biosynthesis from glucose as well as the microbial transformation of monoaromatics.

The implementation of sustainable food systems on a global scale is of utmost importance in order to effectively achieve sustainable diet goals on a world level. Plant-based meat alternatives offer potential replacements for meals derived from animals and serve as a means to transition toward more environmentally sustainable dietary choices. Therefore, in the quest for sustainable diets, comprehending consumer behavior and preferences within the context of the plant-based meat revolution is crucial. The current study is planned to examine the factors that influence the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives among Chinese people. For this purpose, data collected from 610 individuals through an online survey was analyzed using the partial least square structural equation model. The findings reveal that consumer perceptions, particularly regarding taste, nutrition values, and texture, were found to have a significant impact on the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives. Effective promotional strategies, availability, and accessibility also play a vital role in influencing consumer preferences for plant-based meat alternatives. The outcomes regarding the significance of health perception and environmental concern in transforming consumer preferences for plant-based meat alternatives are also highlighted. Consumers prioritize plant-based meat alternatives due to their perceived health benefits and favorable environmental impact. Moreover, consumer satisfaction, rooted in meeting or exceeding expectations, signifies the mediating role in the relationship between consumer perceptions and the acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives, which boosts the plant-based meat alternatives’ acceptance. Furthermore, the findings underline the mediating role of environmental attitude in the relationship between environmental concerns and plant-based meat alternatives’ acceptance, emphasizing the importance of sustainable dietary choices. In general, these findings provide valuable insights into the promotion of sustainable dietary choices, the alignment of consumer behavior with environmentally conscious decisions, and transforming the food systems in light of changing consumer behavior and ecological concerns.

The cytoskeleton is a fundamental component found in all eukaryotic organisms, serving as a critical factor in various essential cyto-biological mechanisms, particularly in the locomotion and morphological transformations of plant cells. The cytoskeleton is comprised of three main components: microtubules (MT), microfilaments (MF), and intermediate filaments (IF). The cytoskeleton plays a crucial role in the process of cell wall formation and remodeling throughout the growth and development of cells. It is a highly organized and regulated network composed of filamentous components. In the basic processes of intracellular transport, such as mitosis, cytokinesis, and cell polarity, the plant cytoskeleton plays a crucial role according to recent studies. The major flaws in the organization of the cytoskeletal framework are at the root of the aberrant organogenesis currently observed in plant mutants. The regulation of protein compartmentalization and abundance within cells is predominantly governed by the process of vesicle/membrane transport, which plays a crucial role in several signaling cascades.The regulation of membrane transport in eukaryotic cells is governed by a diverse array of proteins. Recent developments in genomics have provided new tools to study the evolutionary relationships between membrane proteins in different plant species. It is known that members of the GTPases, COP, SNAREs, Rabs, tethering factors, and PIN families play essential roles in vesicle transport between plant, animal, and microbial species. This Review presents the latest research on the plant cytoskeleton, focusing on recent developments related to the cytoskeleton and summarizing the role of various proteins in vesicle transport. In addition, the report predicts future research direction of plant cytoskeleton and vesicle trafficking, potential research priorities, and provides researchers with specific pointers to further investigate the significant link between cytoskeleton and vesicle trafficking.

Abstract A comprehensive study was carried out on in vitro multiplication and rooting using the medium enriched with different plant growth regulators and acclimatization of pineapple cv. ‘Smooth Cayenne’ using different soil growing substrates. The significantly highest shoot buds (Avg. 16.7) were obtained on the medium comprising 2.0 mg L−1 BA (6-Benzylaminopurine). Results showed that 1.0 mg L−1 IBA (Indole-3-butyric acid) increased the thickness and length of white adventitious roots and resulted in a significantly highest number of roots (Avg. 8) and root length (6.15 cm). Plantlets with healthy, multiple roots were transplanted in several soil combinations of river silt, bolhari (yellow sand), and peat moss. However, the significantly highest survival (100%) of plantlets in the greenhouse was obtained on the soil medium containing only peat moss. Furthermore, soil mixtures of bolhari and peat moss (1:1) and river silt alone exhibited 98.9% and 95.1% survivability of plantlets, which was also considered equally significant (at 5% probability level). The in vitro and ex vitro protocols optimized in the current study can be applied commercially for pineapple crop worldwide.

This study explores the implementation of advanced machine learning techniques to enhance the integration of renewable energy into smart grids, focusing specifically on predicting solar power generation for the upcoming year. Three distinct machine learning models are employed: the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) and a hybrid model that combines Autoencoder and Long Short-Term Memory (AE-LSTM). Using real-time solar power production data spanning a year, these models are trained and evaluated using mean absolute error (MAE) and mean squared error (MSE) as performance metrics. Results highlight the superior accuracy of the hybrid AE-LSTM model compared to the LSTM model as well as Bi-LSTM model, attributed to its capability to capture intricate temporal patterns and correlations within the data. This research underscores the significant potential of machine learning techniques, particularly the hybrid AE-LSTM approach, in facilitating the seamless integration of renewable energy resources into smart grids, contributing to more efficient and environmentally conscious power systems. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis reveals the hybrid AE-LSTM model’s capacity to produce superior predictions due to its additional training, solidifying its advantage over models solely reliant on the other model’s architecture. In summary, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of advanced machine learning methodologies in revolutionizing renewable energy integration, with the hybrid AE-LSTM model standing out as a promising avenue for enhanced prediction accuracy.

Fine root decomposition is a physio-biochemical activity that is critical to the global carbon cycle (C) in forest ecosystems. It is crucial to investigate the mechanisms and factors that control fine root decomposition in forest ecosystems to understand their system-level carbon balance. This process can be influenced by several abiotic (e.g., mean annual temperature, mean annual precipitation, site elevation, stand age, salinity, soil pH) and biotic (e.g., microorganism, substrate quality) variables. Comparing decomposition rates within sites reveals positive impacts of nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations and negative effects of lignin concentration. Nevertheless, estimating the actual fine root breakdown is difficult due to inadequate methods, anthropogenic activities, and the impact of climate change. Herein, we propose that how fine root substrate and soil physiochemical characteristics interact with soil microorganisms to influence fine root decomposition. This review summarized the elements that influence this process, as well as the research methods used to investigate it. There is also need to study the influence of annual and seasonal changes affecting fine root decomposition. This cumulative evidence will provide information on temporal and spatial dynamics of forest ecosystems, and will determine how logging and reforestation affect fine root decomposition.

Abstract Background A procedure for sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) using superparamagnetic iron-oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles and intraoperative sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection was developed to overcome drawbacks associated with the current standard-of-care SLNB. However, residual SPIO nanoparticles can result in void artefacts at follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. We present a grading protocol to quantitatively assess the severity of these artefacts and offer an option to minimise the impact of SPIO nanoparticles on diagnostic imaging. Methods Follow-up mammography and MRI of two patient groups after a magnetic SLNB were included in the study. They received a 2-mL subareolar dose of SPIO (high-dose, HD) or a 0.1-mL intratumoural dose of SPIO (low-dose, LD). Follow-up mammography and MRI after magnetic SLNB were acquired within 4 years after breast conserving surgery (BCS). Two radiologists with over 10-year experience in breast imaging assessed the images and analysed the void artefacts and their impact on diagnostic follow-up. Results A total of 19 patients were included (HD, n = 13; LD, n = 6). In the HD group, 9/13 patients displayed an artefact on T1-weighted images up to 3.6 years after the procedure, while no impact of the SPIO remnants was observed in the LD group. Conclusions SLNB using a 2-mL subareolar dose of magnetic tracer in patients undergoing BCS resulted in residual artefacts in the breast in the majority of patients, which may hamper follow-up MRI. This can be avoided by using a 0.1-mL intratumoural dose.

Abstract At present time, every nation is absolutely concern about increasing agricultural production and bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated soil. Hence, with this intention in the current study potent natural surfactants characterized as lipopeptides were evaluated for low-cost production by Bacillus subtilis SNW3, previously isolated from the Fimkessar oil field, Chakwal Pakistan. The significant results were obtained by using substrates in combination (white beans powder (6% w/v) + waste frying oil (1.5% w/v) and (0.1% w/v) urea) with lipopeptides yield of about 1.17 g/L contributing 99% reduction in cost required for medium preparation. To the best of our knowledge, no single report is presently describing lipopeptide production by Bacillus subtilis using white beans powder as a culture medium. Additionally, produced lipopeptides display great physicochemical properties of surface tension reduction value (SFT = 28.8 mN/m), significant oil displacement activity (ODA = 4.9 cm), excessive emulsification ability (E24 = 69.8%), and attains critical micelle concentration (CMC) value at 0.58 mg/mL. Furthermore, biosurfactants produced exhibit excellent stability over an extensive range of pH (1–11), salinity (1–8%), temperature (20–121°C), and even after autoclaving. Subsequently, produced lipopeptides are proved suitable for bioremediation of crude oil (86%) and as potent plant growth-promoting agent that significantly (P

The WRKY transcription factor (TF) belongs to one of the major plant protein superfamilies. The WRKY TF gene family plays an important role in the regulation of transcriptional reprogramming associated with plant stress responses. Change in the expression patterns of WRKY genes or the modifications in their action; participate in the elaboration of numerous signaling pathways and regulatory networks. WRKY proteins contribute to plant growth, for example, gamete formation, seed germination, post-germination growth, stem elongation, root hair growth, leaf senescence, flowering time, and plant height. Moreover, they play a key role in many types of environmental signals, including drought, temperature, salinity, cold, and biotic stresses. This review summarizes the current progress made in unraveling the functions of numerous WRKY TFs under drought, salinity, temperature, and cold stresses as well as their role in plant growth and development.

BackgroundPatients with early breast cancer undergoing primary surgery, who have low axillary nodal burden, can safely forego axillary node clearance (ANC). However, routine use of axillary ultrasound (AUS) leads to 43% of patients in this group having ANC unnecessarily, following a positive AUS. The intersection of machine learning with medicine can provide innovative ways to understand specific risks within large patient data sets, but this has not yet been trialed in the arena of axillary node management in breast cancer. ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to assess if machine learning techniques could be used to improve preoperative identification of patients with low and high axillary metastatic burden. MethodsA single-center retrospective analysis was performed on patients with breast cancer who had a preoperative AUS, and the specificity and sensitivity of AUS were calculated. Standard statistical methods and machine learning methods, including artificial neural network, naive Bayes, support vector machine, and random forest, were applied to the data to see if they could improve the accuracy of preoperative AUS to better discern high and low axillary burden. ResultsThe study included 459 patients; 142 (31%) had a positive AUS; among this group, 88 (62%) had 2 or fewer macrometastatic nodes at ANC. Logistic regression outperformed AUS (specificity 0.950 vs 0.809). Of all the methods, the artificial neural network had the highest accuracy (0.919). Interestingly, AUS had the highest sensitivity of all methods (0.777), underlining its utility in this setting. ConclusionsWe demonstrated that machine learning improves identification of the important subgroup of patients with no palpable axillary disease, positive ultrasound, and more than 2 metastatically involved nodes. A negative ultrasound in patients with no palpable lymphadenopathy is highly indicative of low axillary burden, and it is unclear whether sentinel node biopsy adds value in this situation. Further studies with larger patient numbers focusing on specific breast cancer subgroups are required to refine these techniques in this setting.

To investigate the possible degradation of the intramuscular connective tissue (IMCT) with cathepsin L, isolated IMCTs were incubated with purified cathepsin L in vitro. Here, we prepared purified cathepsin L from bovine pancreas by using DEAE Sephacel, Sephacryl S-100 HR, SP Sepharose FF, and con A-Sepharose affinity chromatography in sequence. An SDS-PAGE analysis of CNBr-digested peptides showed that the degradation of collagen in IMCT could take place on terminal non-helical peptides rather than the triple helix region. Decorin (DCN) was clearly degraded at a pH of 5.0. The TP and TO of intramuscular connective tissue decreased to 41.41 °C and 43.79 °C, respectively. In the cathepsin L treatment of pH 5.0, the decreases in the TP and TO of IMCT were more sensitive than they were at pH 5.5~6.5.

Rhamnolipid biosurfactants are multifunctional compounds that can play an indispensable role in biotechnological, biomedical, and environmental bioremediation-related fields, and have attracted significant attention in recent years. Herein, a novel strain Pseudomonas sp. S1WB was isolated from an oil-contaminated water sample. The biosurfactants produced by this strain have capabilities to reduce surface tension (SFT) at 32.75 ± 1.63 mN/m and emulsified 50.2 ± 1.13 % in liquid media containing 1 % used engine oil (UEO) as the sole carbon source. However, the lowest SFT reduction (28.25 ± 0.21), highest emulsification index (60.15 ± 0.07), and the maximum yields (900 mg/L) were achieved under optimized conditions; where, the glucose/urea and glycerol/urea combinations were found efficient carbon and nitrogen substrates for improved biosurfactants production. Biosurfactants product was characterized using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC- MS) and detected various di- rhamnolipids congeners. In addition, the di-rhamnolipids produced by S1WB strain was found highly stable in terms of surface activity and EI indices at different environmental factors i.e. temperature, pH and various NaCl concentrations, where, emulsifying property was found high stable till 30 days of incubation. Moreover, the stain was capable to degrade hydrocarbon at 42.2 ± 0.04 %, and the Gas chromatography- mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profile showed the majority of peak intensities of hydrocarbons have been completely degraded compared to control.

In an attempt to positively regulate meat quality at low NaCl concentration, the influence of L-histidine (L-his) introduction on the postmortem phosphorylation of chicken breast muscle protein that had been cured for 16 h at 1% NaCl was investigated at 90 min postmortem in the present study. The 633 different phosphoproteins (﹥1.2-fold) induced by L-his introduction during salting were identified, and a majority of these proteins were involved in glycolysis, calcium signalling pathway and muscle contraction. Myosin, actin, titin, troponin C (TnC), myosin light-chain kinase (MLCK) and γ-phosphorylase kinase (γ-PHK) were the main differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) that were associated with muscle contraction. An advantageous regulation of phosphoglucomutase-1 phosphorylation, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 component was obtained in glycolytic metabolism after treatment with L-his.

Abstract Background Biosurfactants, being highly biodegradable, ecofriendly and multifunctional compounds have wide applications in various industrial sectors including environmental bioremediation. Surfactin, a member of lipopeptide family, which is considered as one of the most powerful biosurfactants due to its excellent emulsifying activities as well as environmental and therapeutic applications. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the newly isolated bacterial strain S2MT for production of surfactin-like biosurfactants and their potential applications for oil-contaminated soil remediation. Results In this study, the strain S2MT was isolated from lake sediment and was identified as Bacillus nealsonii based on transmitted electron microscopy (TEM) and 16S rRNA ribo-typing. The strain S2MT produced biosurfactant that reduced the surface tension (34.15 ± 0.6 mN/m) and displayed excellent emulsifying potential for kerosene (55 ± 0.3%). Additionally, the maximum biosurfactant product yield of 1300 mg/L was achieved when the composition of the culture medium was optimized through response surface methodology (RSM). Results showed that 2% glycerol and 0.1% NH4NO3 were the best carbon/nitrogen substrates for biosurfactant production. The parameters such as temperature (30 °C), pH (8), agitation (100 rpm), NH4NO3 (0.1%) and NaCl (0.5%) displayed most significant contribution towards surface tension reduction that resulted in enhanced biosurfactant yield. Moreover, the extracted biosurfactants were found to be highly stable at environmental factors such as salinity, pH and temperature variations. The biosurfactants were characterized as cyclic lipopeptides relating to surfactin-like isoforms (C13–C15) using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), Ultra high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS). The crude biosurfactant product displayed up to 43.6 ± 0.08% and 46.7 ± 0.01% remediation of heavy engine-oil contaminated soil at 10 and 40 mg/L concentrations, respectively. Conclusion Present study expands the paradigm of surfactin-like biosurfactants produced by novel isolate Bacillus nealsonii S2MT for achieving efficient and environmentally acceptable soil remediation as compared to synthetic surfactants.

The world is facing severe environmental challenges as it heavily relies on a USD 100 trillion fossil-fuel-based economy. Its transition from a fuel-intensive to a material-intensive economy is not well understood. The conventional energy resources are responsible for the excessive generation of Green House Gas (GHG) emissions resulting in increased environmental degradation owing to climate change. The human impact has been cited as highly indisputable in this respect. Pakistan is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries highly suffering from such increased impact of climate change and, thus, has been warned against the excessive use of conventional resources. As such, in the premises of Pakistan, conventional products are being excessively utilized in both power generation and transport sectors. Apart from the electrical power sector, the transport sector is also one of the main contributors to GHG emissions. In this context, the automobile industry has emerged as an environmentally friendly solution, which presents Electric Vehicles (EVs) as an efficient and feasible alternative to mitigate the GHG footprint. The transition from fossil-fuel-based vehicles (FFVs) to EVs is, therefore, considered as a potential way to decarbonize the transport sector, where the socio-economic conditions may be improved to a significant extent. A major prerequisite under planning and implementation in Pakistan is forecasting of load growth of EVs in Pakistan. Therefore, this paper proposes a load growth model (load forecast), used to forecast the load growth expected for electric vehicles in Pakistan from 2021 to 2030. This paper discusses in detail the original and revised models. According to the revised model, total EV energy demand stood at 24.61 GWh in 2020 and increased up to 2862.54 GWh in 2030.

The effect of a salt substitute (SS) containing L-lysine (Lys) and L-histidine (His) on secondary structure and gel properties of myosin from grass carp was examined. The results indicated that the α-helix content of myosin treated with SS was 29.00%, 29.03% and 35.93% more than that with NaCl at 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 mol/L (P

The present study was conducted to explore the impact of novel water–oil mixed frying and traditional oil frying methods on the soybean oil quality and formation of trans fatty acids (TFAs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs) in fried duck breast and skin during 60 frying cycles. The acid value of the soybean oil was 2.10 mg/g using the traditional oil frying and 1.08 mg/g using water–oil mixed frying at the 60th frying cycle. The peroxide value of the water–oil mixed fried soybean oil was significantly lower than that of the traditional frying method. Water–oil mixed frying delayed the formation of TFAs in the soybean oil. The traditionally oil fried skin showed increased TFAs (9tC16:1) content from 0.17 to 0.22 mg/g (29.4% increase), while those of the water–oil mixed fried samples increased from 0.16 to 0.20 mg/g (25.00% increase) compared to control. Harman, Norharman and AαC were detected in all the fried samples and PhIP was observed after the 20th frying cycle, while MeAαC was formed only at the 60th frying cycle in traditional fried duck breast. Therefore, it is concluded that the water–oil mixed frying method is more suitable to improve the quality and safety of fried duck skin and breast meat.

Field experiments were conducted at three sites: Yangling (YL); Zhouzhi-1 (ZH-1) and Zhouzhi-2 (ZH-2) of the Loess Plateau during summer maize crop, to investigate the effectiveness of N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) and NBPT + dicyandiamide (DCD) with urea on reducing NH3 volatilization from different soils under different environmental conditions. Four treatments including control (no N), N-220 kg/ha, N-220 + NBPT and N-220 + NBPT + DCD were applied in two splits through the band placement method. Total NH3-N loss observed were 65.8, 40.5 and 20.1 NH3-N kg/ha (accounting for 29.9, 18.4 and 9.2% of N applied) from urea for YL, ZH-1 and ZH-2, respectively. The application of NBPT and NBPT + DCD significantly reduced NH3 volatilization by 80-93% and 75-90%, respectively. The meteorologic factors such as precipitation, air temperature and wind speed significantly affected NH3 volatilization. These results suggested that the amendment of urea with NBPT and NBPT + DCD have potential to mitigate NH3-N losses from alkaline soils in the Loess Plateau.

The present study was designed to analyze the formation mechanics of heat-induced myofibrillar gels from rabbit psoas major at 0.6 mol/L KCl (pH 6.5) and 0.2 mol/L KCl (pH 6.0; n = 3). Morphological structure changes were observed using phase-contrast microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and gel properties were determined through water-holding capacity (WHC), gel strength and dynamic rheological test. The results revealed that myofibrillar filaments aggregated and formed larger oligomers by side-by-side interactions when heated from 25 to 65°C. In higher ionic strength at higher pH, the filaments formed a more compact homogeneous network structure and the G′ value was much lower with higher WHC and gel strength, suggesting that the myofibril gel properties could be described by ∆G′. Based on the present study, it is suggested that the desired structural and textural attributes of myofibril gel can be manipulated by temperature, ionic strength and pH.

BACKGROUND: The common work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) among medical profession are pain in neck, elbow, shoulder wrist and back. Sonographers are more vulnerable to develop WRMDs as their work demands series of awkward repetitive movements. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) and to identify factors that may contribute to musculoskeletal disorders among sonologists of Sindh Province Pakistan. METHODOLOGY: This questionnaire based study conducted at the Department of Radiology, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences. The target population chosen for this study was sonologists from the Sind province of Pakistan. SPSS used to analyze the data, results presented as frequency for categorical variables and as mean for continuous variables. To identify predictor variable for WRMDs, multiple bivariate regression analysis was performed, the level of significant was set at P

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are very prone to ongoing security threats due to its resource constraints and unprotected transmission medium. WSN contains hundreds and thousands of resource-constrained and self-organized sensor nodes. These sensor nodes are usually organized in a distributed manner; thus, it permits the creation of an ad hoc network without predefined infrastructure or centralized management. As WSNs are going to get control of real-time applications, where a malicious activity can cause serious damage, the inherent challenge is to fortify the security enforcement in these networks. As a solution, software-defined network (SDN) has come out and has been merged with WSN to form what is known as software-defined wireless sensor network (SDWSN). SDWSN has come into existence, and it legitimizes network operators with more flexibility and control over the network. SDWSN has more tightened the security enforcement based on the global view and centralized control of the network topology. Moreover, machine learning (ML)–based and deep learning (DL)–based network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) have been introduced to the SDN environment to protect the networks against anomaly threats. In this review article, we illustrated the SDN–based security approaches to WSN followed by its architectures, advantages, and possible security threats. Finally, ML/DL–based NIDS integrated with the SDN controller is proposed as a complete solution for the WSN environment to confront the ongoing anomaly threats and to sufficiently protect the network against both known and unknown attacks.

Aims and objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Fistulography in the assessment of the perianal fistulae. Background: The success of the surgical approach for perianal fistulae treatmentis closely associated with the preoperative assessment. MR imaging plays a key role in describing the fistulae in relation to the anatomy of the perianal region. This has been categorised according to the involvement of the fistulous tract in relation to the sphincters and its extension of the disease into five imaging based grades. This helps in selecting the appropriate surgery in order to reduce the load of recurrences. Materials and methods: Over a period of 6 months, a cross sectional study was conducted among 18 patients who were admitted with the features of perianal fistulae at Al-Ameen Medical College Hospital , Vijayapura. The average age of patients was 44.5 years, ranging from 33 to 72 years, with the number of females 22.2% (n = 4) and males 77.8% (n = 14). The pre-operative MR imaging assessment was studied and correlated with intra operative surgical findings. Results: The accuracy of MR Fistulography was consistent with 17 out of 18 surgical findings, except for one case, which was falsely over diagnosed. Conclusion: To conclude, MR Fistulography is an essential investigation of choice in the evaluation of perianal fistulae. It helps in accurate identification of the type of perianal fistula in relation to the anal sphincters and adjacent anatomical structures. Hence this investigation should be recommended routinely in preoperative work up for precise surgical management of perianal fistulae.

Excessive nitrogen (N) application and reduced nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) are the key reasons behind N notoriety worldwide, including in Pakistan. We estimated the changes in NUE of Pakistan by calculating the N budget of Pakistan’s agriculture during the last 53 years (1961–2013). A more than ten-fold increase in N input (including N fertilizer, biological N fixation, manure, and atmospheric deposition) from 408 GgNyr ^−1 (1961–1965) to 4636 GgNyr ^−1 (2009–2013) highlights the fact that Pakistan is experiencing a massive expansion of N consumption. Significantly declining NUE (from 58% to 23%) and sharply increasing surplus N (171 GgNyr ^−1 to 3581 GgNyr ^−1 ) may cause N-related environment problems in the future if not handled immediately. Escalating gaseous N emissions of NH _3 , N _2 O, and NO (70, 10, and 1 GgNyr ^−1 to 1023, 155, and 46 GgNyr ^−1 , respectively) is already posing a serious threat in terms of impaired air quality. There is a dire need to devise/adapt strategies and consistent policies for improving NUE, using proper management approaches at the grass root level and applying appropriate legislative measures for judicious N use as per crops requirements. Moreover, promotion of a balanced use of fertilizers would help in improving NUE in agriculture.

The present research investigated the antioxidant effect of rape (Brassica campestris L.) bee pollen (RBP) on salami during processing. Eight flavonoids in RBP ethanol extract were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis, and quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol were the major bioactive compounds. The RBP ethanol extract exhibited higher total antioxidant capacity than 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tertramethylchromancarboxylic acid (trolox) at the same concentration. The salami with 0.05% RBP extract had higher catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities than that of the control throughout the processing time (p < 0.05). Significant decreases in peroxide value (POV) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were obtained in the final salami product with 0.05% RBP ethanol extract or 1% RBP (p < 0.05). These results suggested that RBP could improve oxidative stability and had a good potential as a natural antioxidant for retarding lipid oxidation.

In previous studies, heterocyclic amines (HCAs) have been identified as carcinogenic and a risk factor for human cancer. Therefore, the present study was designed to identify bioactive natural products capable of controlling the formation of HCAs during cooking. For this purpose we have evaluated the effect of Rosa rugosa tea extract (RTE) on the formation of HCAs in ground beef patties fried at 160 °C or 220 °C. RTE is rich in phenolic compounds and capable of inhibiting the formation of free radicals. The pyrido[3,4-b]indole (norharman) and 1-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole (harman) contents were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in RTE-treated patties at 220 °C. 9H-3-Amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole acetate (Trp-P-2) and 3-amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido-[4,3-b]indole acetate (Trp-P-1) were not detected at 160 °C and were statistically (p < 0.01) reduced at 220 °C compared to the control. RTE remarkably inhibited the formation of 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) at 220 °C (p < 0.001) and at 160 °C (p < 0.05). 2-Amino-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (AαC) and 2-amino-3-methyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]-indole (MeAαC) were only detected in the control group at 160 °C but were comparatively (p > 0.05) similar in the control and treated groups at 220 °C. 2-Amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (IQ), 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (MeIQ), 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MeIQx), and 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]-quinoxaline (4,8-DiMeIQx) were not detected in any sample. Total HCAs were positively correlated with cooking loss. In the RTE-treated groups, 75% of the total HCAs were decreased at 160 °C and 46% at 220 °C, suggesting that RTE is effective at both temperatures and can be used during cooking at high temperatures to lessen the amount of HCAs formed.

Microstrip patch antennas (MPAs) are popular in wireless communication systems due to their compact size and easy-to-design properties. However, the performance of such antennas sometimes becomes limited, especially when used in location-based services that require either sophisticated antenna arrays-based radio frequency front-end (RFFE) design or complex signal processing techniques. This paper introduces the concept of an electromagnetic (EM) lens-assisted MPA where a polylactic acid (PLA) substrate-based EM lens is combined with a conventional MPA. Because the EM lens has focused ability, the EM lens-assisted MPA provides improved overall antenna performance. In this paper, we design and simulate the EM lens-assisted MPA and analyze the performance at different frequencies, i.e., 4.2 GHz and 10 GHz, and dielectric substrates for the MPA, i.e., FR4, RO4350b, and RT Duroid 5880. The obtained results show that the EM lens-assisted MPA, particularly the RT Duroid substrate-based MPA integrated with the EM lens, outperforms the traditional MPA without the EM lens. Furthermore, the proposed lens antenna can steer the beam as a function of the MPA position with less complexity and improved performance. Thus, the proposed EM lens antenna in this paper has the potential to revolutionize the RFFE design to be used for location-enabled services, especially in fifth/sixth generation (5G/6G) technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The market size of biosurfactants (BSs) has been expanding at an extremely fast pace due to their broad application scope. Therefore, the re-construction of cell factories with modified genomic and metabolic profiles for desired industrial performance has been an intriguing aspect. Typical mutagenesis approaches generate huge mutant libraries, whereas a battery of specific, robust, and cost-effective high-throughput screening (HTS) methods is requisite to screen target strains for desired phenotypes. So far, only a few specialized HTS assays have been developed for BSs that were successfully applied to obtain anticipated mutants. The most important milestones to reach, however, continue to be: specificity, sensitivity, throughput, and the potential for automation. Here, we discuss important colorimetric and fluorometric HTS approaches for possible intervention on automated HTS platforms. Moreover, we explain current bottlenecks in developing specialized HTS platforms for screening high-yielding producers and discuss possible perspectives for addressing such challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]