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INTRODUCTION Trauma can result in wide spectrum of eye injury of the globe, optic nerve and adnexa ranging from superficial to vision threatening complication Timely intervention and surgical repair of anterior segment injury and subsequent visual rehabilitation with long term impact is a topic of great significance and challenges to the practicing ophthalmologists. Even though with the advent of new modalities and improved technology, the management of penetrating ocular injuries has changed. We need to prognosticate any patient with ocular trauma before and even after the repair of ocular injury. OBJECTIVES 1. To assess the various factors affecting the final visual outcome in patients with mechanical ocular injury 2. To assess the severity of ocular trauma at the time of presentation METHOD This prospective study was conducted on minimum of 72 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria in the department of Ophthalmology, R. L. Jalappa Hospital and Research centre, Kolar from August 2022 to December 2023, after obtaining ethical clearance from Institutional Ethical Committee of Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College and written informed consent from the subjects. All cases of mechanical ocular injuries involving the anterior segment of eye age more than 5 years were assessed by a detailed history regarding Time of onset an mode of injury, Mode of injury Clinical examination including Visual acuity, Color Vision, Slit lamp examination, fundus examination, X-ray orbit, B-Scan CT and MRI orbit if needed. RESULTS Among 72 eyes studied, patients' average age (years) was 31.82, and most were 11-30. Around 60% were males. The left eye was implicated among 45.8%, and 9.7% had bilateral eye involvement. Around one-fourth had trauma by RTA, followed by wooden pieces. At the presentation time, 44.4% had Cf 1-meter to Cf 5-meter vision, and 30.6% had 6/60 to 6/24 visual acuity. At one week follow-up, 54.2% had a VA 6/60 to 6/24, 26.4% had 6/18 to 6/6, and 19.4% had Cf 1 meter to Cf 5 meter. At one month follow-up, 25% had a VA 6/60 to 6/24, 73.6% had 6/18 to 6/6, and 1.4% had Cf 1 meter to Cf 5 meter Corneal foreign body with epi defects was the most common complication, followed by Traumatic cataract (9.7%), IOP was high among 13.9% of the patients.11.1% of the patients had wounds involving the pupillary axis. 16.7% of the patients were immunocompromised. Most patients presented within 24 hours (75%), while 16.7% and 8.3% presented within 24-48 hours and >48 hours, respectively. CONCLUSION This study concluded, most had ocular injury by RTA, Corneal foreign body with epi defects is the common complications observed upon the presentation Three-fourths of those with ocular injury had good vision by follow-up. A significant association was found between visual acuity and wounds involving the pupillary axis, the immunocompromised status of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical trauma is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, RTAs are the leading cause of injuries, with fractures being a critical aspect of trauma care. To address this prevalent healthcare burden, a detailed analysis of the costs associated with surgical interventions to optimize resource allocation and improve healthcare planning is crucial. Method: This retrospective cost analysis was conducted at King Saud University Medical City between January 2016 and March 2022. A total of 2689 orthopaedic trauma surgeries were analysed. The cost data were converted to US dollars (1 USD = 3.75 SR). Statistical analysis was conducted via SPSS, with comparisons of costs by sex, age group, procedure type, and other relevant factors. Results: The total cost of trauma surgeries over the study period was $8,548,749.90. The most common procedure was ORIF, which was performed 1415 times, accounting for $5,660,000.00 of the total cost. Males represented 65.7% of the patients, incurring $5,647,976.44 in expenses. Patients under the age of 21 had the highest number of cases by age (43.5%), and the total cost was $3,276,293.44. Scheduled surgeries had higher average costs than emergent procedures did, and lower extremity surgeries accounted for more cases but had lower average costs than upper extremity surgeries did. Conclusion: The cost of orthopaedic trauma care is significantly influenced by factors such as procedure type, age, and sex. When certain cost patterns are identified and analysed, an approach toward cost effectiveness while maintaining high-quality healthcare delivery can be achieved. Projected trends show an increase in the number of cases by 2030, indicating increased costs. Future studies should consider additional factors, such as rehabilitation costs, and explore cost-saving opportunities in surgical interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As interest in transparent electronics increases, ensuring the reliability of transparent RRAM (T-RRAM) devices, which can be used to construct transparent electronics, has become increasingly important. However, defects and traps within these T-RRAM devices can degrade their reliability. In this study, we investigated the improvement of transparency and reliability of T-RRAM devices with an AZO/HfO2/Ti structure through rapid thermal annealing (RTA) at 450 °C for 60 s in a nitrogen atmosphere. The device without RTA exhibited a low transmittance of 30%, whereas the device with RTA showed a significantly higher transmittance of over 75%. Furthermore, the device operated at lower current levels after RTA, which resulted in a reduction in its operating voltages, and the forming, setting, and reset voltages changed from 3.3, 2.4, and −5.1 V, respectively, to 2, 1, and −2.7 V. This led to an improvement in the endurance characteristics of the device, which thereby suggests that these improvements can be attributed to a reduction in the defects and trap density within the T-RRAM device caused by RTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Introduction: With increased urbanization the prevalence of important public health problems like road traffic accidents (RTA) and depression are surging. This study was aimed to determine the association between RTA and depression among Indian population aged ≥45 years. Methods: Using Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) dataset (April 2017–December 2018), we have conducted this study among older adults (45–59 years) and elderly (≥60 years) Indians. Bivariate analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of RTA and depression nationally and across aspirants, achievers, and front runner states. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted between RTA and depression, adjusted with demographic and socioeconomic; health related and behavioral factors. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Prevalence of RTA was 1.84 (1.74-1.94)% nationally, highest among achiever states (2.04 (1.82–2.30)%). Prevalence of depression was 6.08 (5.90–6.26)% nationally, highest among aspirant states (7.02 (6.74–7.30)%). The adjusted odds of having accident was significantly 1.75 times higher among depressed (aOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.44–2.13) than non-depressed participants which was highest across front runners (aOR 1.86, 95%CI 1.26–2.72) followed by aspirant states (aOR 1.79, 95%CI 1.37–2.33). Conclusion: This study established the association between depression and road traffic accidents among older adults and elderly. Therefore, efforts must be taken to address mental health issues specially focusing on depression in them with proper policy implication more focused on front runners followed by aspirant states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The prevalence of important public health problems like road traffic accidents (RTA) and depression are surging. This study was aimed to estimate distribution and determine the association between RTA and depression among Indian population aged 45 years and above: overall and stratified into age group, gender and across states/union territories as aspirants, achievers, and front runners. Methods: Using Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) dataset (April 2017–December 2018), we have conducted this study among middle aged (45–59 years) and older adults and elderly (≥ 60 years) Indians. Bivariate analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of RTA and depression nationally and across aspirants, achievers, and front runner states. States and union territories were categorised as low, medium, and high as per RTA and depression prevalence, which were further cross tabulated. Spatial distribution maps were created using Microsoft Excel. We have documented the association of RTA with depression. To reduce the confounding effects of demographic and socioeconomic; health related and behavioural covariates; propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted. Nested multilevel regression modelling was analysed using STATA version 17. Results: Prevalence of RTA was 1.84% (1.74–1.94) nationally, highest among achiever states [2.04% (1.82–2.30)]. Prevalence of depression was 6.08% (5.90–6.26) nationally, highest among aspirant states [7.02% (6.74–7.30)]. The adjusted odds of having RTA was significantly among depressed [aOR (95% CI) 1.76 (1.45–2.15)] than non-depressed participants; which was much higher among females [aOR (95% CI) 1.93 (1.43–2.62)] than in males [aOR (95%CI) 1.67 (1.29–2.16)] and much higher among middle aged [aOR (95%CI) 2.08 (1.63–2.65)]. Odds of RTA was highest across front runners [aOR (95%CI) 1.86 (1.26–2.72)] followed by aspirant states [aOR (95%CI) 1.79 (1.37–2.33)]. Conclusion: This study established the positive association between depression and road traffic accidents among middle aged, older adults and elderly. Therefore, efforts must be taken to address mental health issues in them with proper policy implication more focused on females and middle aged. Front runner's states should get the limelight followed by aspirant states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we optimized IGZO/Ag/IGZO (IAI) multilayer films by post-rapid thermal annealing (RTA) to enhance the electrical conductivity and optical transmittance in visible wavelengths for solar cell applications. Our optimized device showed an average transmittance of 85% in the visible range, with a lowest sheet resistance of 6.03 Ω/□ when annealed at 500 °C for 60 s. Based on these results, we assessed our device with photo-generated short circuit current density (JSC) using a solar cell simulator to confirm its applicability in the solar cell. IAI multilayer RTA at 500 °C for 60 s showed a highest JSC of 40.73 mA/cm2. These results show that our proposed IAI multilayer film, which showed a high optical transparency and electrical conductivity optimized with post RTA, seems to be excellent transparent electrode for solar cell applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: With increased urbanization the prevalence of important public health problems like road traffic accidents (RTA) and depression are surging. This study was aimed to determine the association between RTA and depression among Indian population aged ≥45 years. Methods: Using Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) dataset (April 2017–December 2018), we have conducted this study among older adults (45–59 years) and elderly (≥60 years) Indians. Bivariate analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of RTA and depression nationally and across aspirants, achievers, and front runner states. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted between RTA and depression, adjusted with demographic and socioeconomic; health related and behavioral factors. P value

Abstract Introduction The prevalence of important public health problems like road traffic accidents (RTA) and depression are surging. This study was aimed to estimate distribution and determine the association between RTA and depression among Indian population aged 45 years and above: overall and stratified into age group, gender and across states/union territories as aspirants, achievers, and front runners. Methods Using Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) dataset (April 2017–December 2018), we have conducted this study among middle aged (45–59 years) and older adults and elderly (≥ 60 years) Indians. Bivariate analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of RTA and depression nationally and across aspirants, achievers, and front runner states. States and union territories were categorised as low, medium, and high as per RTA and depression prevalence, which were further cross tabulated. Spatial distribution maps were created using Microsoft Excel. We have documented the association of RTA with depression. To reduce the confounding effects of demographic and socioeconomic; health related and behavioural covariates; propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted. Nested multilevel regression modelling was analysed using STATA version 17. Results Prevalence of RTA was 1.84% (1.74–1.94) nationally, highest among achiever states [2.04% (1.82–2.30)]. Prevalence of depression was 6.08% (5.90–6.26) nationally, highest among aspirant states [7.02% (6.74–7.30)]. The adjusted odds of having RTA was significantly among depressed [aOR (95% CI) 1.76 (1.45–2.15)] than non-depressed participants; which was much higher among females [aOR (95% CI) 1.93 (1.43–2.62)] than in males [aOR (95%CI) 1.67 (1.29–2.16)] and much higher among middle aged [aOR (95%CI) 2.08 (1.63–2.65)]. Odds of RTA was highest across front runners [aOR (95%CI) 1.86 (1.26–2.72)] followed by aspirant states [aOR (95%CI) 1.79 (1.37–2.33)]. Conclusion This study established the positive association between depression and road traffic accidents among middle aged, older adults and elderly. Therefore, efforts must be taken to address mental health issues in them with proper policy implication more focused on females and middle aged. Front runner’s states should get the limelight followed by aspirant states.

The cellular Notch signal transduction pathway is intimately associated with infections by Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and other gamma-herpesviruses. RBP-Jk, the cellular DNA binding component of the canonical Notch pathway, is the key Notch downstream effector protein in virus-infected and uninfected animal cells. Reactivation of KSHV from latency requires the viral lytic switch protein, Rta, to form complexes with RBP-Jk on numerous sites within the viral DNA. Constitutive Notch activity is essential for KSHV pathophysiology in models of Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) and Primary Effusion Lymphoma (PEL), and we demonstrate that Notch1 is also constitutively active in infected Vero cells. Although the KSHV genome contains >100 RBP-Jk DNA motifs, we show that none of the four isoforms of activated Notch can productively reactivate the virus from latency in a highly quantitative trans-complementing reporter virus system. Nevertheless, Notch contributed positively to reactivation because broad inhibition of Notch1-4 with gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) or expression of dominant negative mastermind-like1 (dnMAML1) coactivators severely reduced production of infectious KSHV from Vero cells. Reduction of KSHV production is associated with gene-specific reduction of viral transcription in both Vero and PEL cells. Specific inhibition of Notch1 by siRNA partially reduces the production of infectious KSHV, and NICD1 forms promoter-specific complexes with viral DNA during reactivation. We conclude that constitutive Notch activity is required for the robust production of infectious KSHV, and our results implicate activated Notch1 as a pro-viral member of a MAML1/RBP-Jk/DNA complex during viral reactivation. IMPORTANCE Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) manipulates the host cell oncogenic Notch signaling pathway for viral reactivation from latency and cell pathogenesis. KSHV reactivation requires that the viral protein Rta functionally interacts with RBP-Jk, the DNA-binding component of the Notch pathway, and with promoter DNA to drive transcription of productive cycle genes. We show that the Notch pathway is constitutively active during KSHV reactivation and is essential for robust production of infectious virus progeny. Inhibiting Notch during reactivation reduces the expression of specific viral genes yet does not affect the growth of the host cells. Although Notch cannot reactivate KSHV alone, the requisite expression of Rta reveals a previously unappreciated role for Notch in reactivation. We propose that activated Notch cooperates with Rta in a promoter-specific manner that is partially programmed by Rta’s ability to redistribute RBP-Jk DNA binding to the virus during reactivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world and international trade may learn much from China's remarkable economic rise in recent decades. The 21st century is increasingly called the ‘Asian Century’ due to China's substantial impact on regional trade organisations, including the EU, NAFTA, SAARC, and ASEAN. Through investments in infrastructure, economic integration, and technical cooperation, China's trading model, defined by bilateral and multilateral agreements, has changed the nature of regionalism. Initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have improved commerce and connectivity, which has promoted collaboration and economic progress. China's involvement in the region has aided development and sparked worries about intellectual property, trade imbalances, and geopolitical problems. This research looks at the economic advantages and geopolitical difficulties of China's trade policies and how regionalism will develop in the face of China's expanding power. Bibliography Entry Rashied, Haroon Ur and Aziz Ur Rahman. 2024. "China’s Economic Growth and Its Impact on Regionalism." Margalla Papers 28 (2): 50-62.

Background: Any medical college hospital's emergency room should constantly be prepared to treat a wide range of cases that are brought in. Knowing the patterns of cases that are presented before it is crucial for this reason, as is making the necessary arrangements to handle them. Materials and methods: The present study is retrospective study to know the trends of medico legal cases brought to SSG Hospital, Vadodara from July 1st, 2016 to December 31st, 2016. Cases include those brought to the hospital's casualty department. Results: A total number of 5408 cases were reported between July 1st, 2016 to December 31st, 2016. Among the 5408 cases reported, 79.99% were male and 26.01% were female making a male to female ratio 3:1. It was observed that urban victims constituted 51.09% and the rural victims were 48.91%. Similar 27.59% were in the age group 21-30 years followed by 21.95% in the 31-40 age group. The maximum number of cases were of RTA's (38.31%) followed by assault (20.25%) and poisoning (9.28%). Conclusion: The current study offers data on the trend of medico legal cases brought to SSG Hospital, Vadodara, including details on the cases' age, sex, and etiological factors. Data is examined statistically and shown in tabular form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the trade potential between Pakistan and its 20 major trading partners from 1990 to 2020 using a gravity model of trade. Understanding bilateral trade dynamics is essential for Pakistan, given its economic ties with regional and global partners. The study analyzes various factors, including economic, geographic, and infrastructural elements that influence trade flows and assesses cross-sectional dependencies among countries. Findings indicate that stronger economies with larger populations and developed infrastructures promote higher trade volumes. Moreover, geographical distance significantly restricts trade potential, as evidenced by the absence of cross-sectional dependency, meaning trade shocks in one nation do not impact others directly. To boost regional trade, Pakistan should invest in infrastructure and lower barriers with neighboring countries. Additionally, strengthening trade agreements with the EU could diversify exports and reduce dependency on a limited number of partners. Future research should broaden the timeframe and consider alternative econometric techniques for a deeper understanding of trade dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TRIM32 is often aberrantly expressed in many types of cancers. Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is linked with several human malignancies, including Kaposi’s sarcoma and primary effusion lymphomas (PELs). Increasing evidence has demonstrated the crucial role of KSHV lytic replication in viral tumorigenesis. However, the role of TRIM32 in herpesvirus lytic replication remains unclear. Here, we reveal that the expression of TRIM32 is upregulated by KSHV in latency, and reactivation of KSHV lytic replication leads to the inhibition of TRIM32 in PEL cells. Strikingly, RTA, the master regulator of lytic replication, interacts with TRIM32 and dramatically promotes TRIM32 for degradation via the proteasome systems. Inhibition of TRIM32 induces cell apoptosis and in turn inhibits the proliferation and colony formation of KSHV-infected PEL cells and facilitates the reactivation of KSHV lytic replication and virion production. Thus, our data imply that the degradation of TRIM32 is vital for the lytic activation of KSHV and is a potential therapeutic target for KSHV-associated cancers. IMPORTANCE TRIM32 is associated with many cancers and viral infections; however, the role of TRIM32 in viral oncogenesis remains largely unknown. In this study, we found that the expression of TRIM32 is elevated by Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) in latency, and RTA (the master regulator of lytic replication) induces TRIM32 for proteasome degradation upon viral lytic reactivation. This finding provides a potential therapeutic target for KSHV-associated cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) belongs to the gamma-herpesvirus family and is a well-known human oncogenic virus. In infected cells, the viral genome of 165 kbp is circular DNA wrapped in chromatin. The tight control of gene expression is critical for latency, the transition into the lytic phase, and the development of viral-associated malignancies. Distal cis-regulatory elements, such as enhancers and silencers, can regulate gene expression in a position- and orientation-independent manner. Open chromatin is another characteristic feature of enhancers. To systematically search for enhancers, we cloned all the open chromatin regions in the KSHV genome downstream of the luciferase gene and tested their enhancer activity in infected and uninfected cells. A silencer was detected upstream of the latency-associated nuclear antigen promoter. Two constitutive enhancers were identified in the K12p-OriLyt-R and ORF29 Intron regions, where ORF29 Intron is a tissue-specific enhancer. The following promoters: OriLyt-L, PANp, ALTp, and the terminal repeats (TRs) acted as lytically induced enhancers. The expression of the replication and transcription activator (RTA), the master regulator of the lytic cycle, was sufficient to induce the activity of lytic enhancers in uninfected cells. We propose that the TRs that span about 24 kbp region serve as a “viral super-enhancer” that integrates the repressive effect of the latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) with the activating effect of RTA. Utilizing CRISPR activation and interference techniques, we determined the connections between these enhancers and their regulated genes. The silencer and enhancers described here provide an additional layer to the complex gene regulation of herpesviruses. IMPORTANCE In this study, we performed a systematic functional assay to identify cis-regulatory elements within the genome of the oncogenic herpesvirus, Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Similar to other herpesviruses, KSHV presents both latent and lytic phases. Therefore, our assays were performed in uninfected cells, during latent infection, and under lytic conditions. We identified two constitutive enhancers, one of which seems to be a tissue-specific enhancer. In addition, four lytically induced enhancers, which are all responsive to the replication and transcription activator (RTA), were identified. Furthermore, a silencer was identified between the major latency promoter and the lytic gene locus. Utilizing CRISPR activation and interference techniques, we determined the connections between these enhancers and their regulated genes. The terminal repeats, spanning a region of about 24 kbp, seem like a “viral super-enhancer” that integrates the repressive effect of the latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) with the activating effect of RTA to regulate latency to lytic transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the pattern of unnatural deaths in Faisalabad during the last five years, to determine the gender and age group mostly affected and to explore the increasing trend if any. Study Design: Retrospective Cross-sectional Descriptive study. Setting: Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Punjab Medical College, Faisalabad. Period: January 2018 to December 2022. Methods: Subjects of the study were victims of unnatural death in areas covered by Police stations where the postmortem was performed in the Mortuary of Punjab Medical College / Faisalabad Medical University. Data was collected from respective official Police records, FIRs and Postmortem reports and recorded on pre-structured proformas. It was categorized on the basis of manner of death, type of weapon involved, age groups involved and gender. Results: Out of a total of 1340 autopsies conducted, 1024(76.4%) were males and 316(23.6%) were females. The male to female ratio was 3.2:1. Majority of the victims belonged to the 30-39-year age group i.e. 338 (25.2%) followed by the 20-29-year age group with 333 (24.8%) cases. The manner of death was homicidal in 896(67%) cases followed by 320(24%) accidental and 77(6%) of suicide. Firearm was the most commonly used weapon claiming 490 (36.6%) lives followed by RTA with 254 (19%) cases. September was the month in which maximum cases were reported (140,10.4%). Conclusion: Males are the major victims of unnatural deaths, with firearm weapons claiming the majority of lives. There is a rising trend in the number of unnatural deaths as the years go by and strict measures need to be implemented to keep a check and balance on the availability and easy access to firearms and strict traffic rules should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As interest in transparent electronics increases, ensuring the reliability of transparent RRAM (T-RRAM) devices, which can be used to construct transparent electronics, has become increasingly important. However, defects and traps within these T-RRAM devices can degrade their reliability. In this study, we investigated the improvement of transparency and reliability of T-RRAM devices with an AZO/HfO2/Ti structure through rapid thermal annealing (RTA) at 450 °C for 60 s in a nitrogen atmosphere. The device without RTA exhibited a low transmittance of 30%, whereas the device with RTA showed a significantly higher transmittance of over 75%. Furthermore, the device operated at lower current levels after RTA, which resulted in a reduction in its operating voltages, and the forming, setting, and reset voltages changed from 3.3, 2.4, and −5.1 V, respectively, to 2, 1, and −2.7 V. This led to an improvement in the endurance characteristics of the device, which thereby suggests that these improvements can be attributed to a reduction in the defects and trap density within the T-RRAM device caused by RTA.

In this paper, we optimized IGZO/Ag/IGZO (IAI) multilayer films by post-rapid thermal annealing (RTA) to enhance the electrical conductivity and optical transmittance in visible wavelengths for solar cell applications. Our optimized device showed an average transmittance of 85% in the visible range, with a lowest sheet resistance of 6.03 Ω/□ when annealed at 500 °C for 60 s. Based on these results, we assessed our device with photo-generated short circuit current density (JSC) using a solar cell simulator to confirm its applicability in the solar cell. IAI multilayer RTA at 500 °C for 60 s showed a highest JSC of 40.73 mA/cm2. These results show that our proposed IAI multilayer film, which showed a high optical transparency and electrical conductivity optimized with post RTA, seems to be excellent transparent electrode for solar cell applications.

This study examines the spatial distribution and cluster analysis of road traffic accidents (RTAs) within Khon Kaen Municipality, Thailand, focusing on the top ten intersections with the highest RTAs. The analysis incorporates general information on RTAs, including gender, age group, type of vehicles involved, group of victims, and the time of day when the accidents occurred. Analyzing data on RTAs, we found that the majority of incidents occurred among males aged 21-30 years, with drivers being the most affected group and motorcycle accidents being the primary cause. Notably, RTAs peaked between midnight and 4:00 AM, potentially correlated with late-night activities. Global Moran's I as well as Anselin local Moran's I were adopted in the cluster analysis to identify hotspots, coldspots, and outliers among the intersections. Examination of RTA hotspots revealed concentration along major roads, particularly Highway No. 2 and Sricharn Road, suggesting the importance of road infrastructure in accident prevalence. Utilizing Anselin's Local Moran's I analysis, we identified a spatially random distribution of RTAs, indicating a lack of distinct spatial patterns or clustering. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and authorities to implement evidence-based measures aimed at enhancing road safety within and beyond Khon Kaen Municipality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Road traffic Accident have been reported to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Due to increasing modernization, road traffic accidents have become exponentially more frequent and dangerous. Mortality rate from road traffic injuries accounts 29.2 per 100000 people5. This study was conducted in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Silchar Medical College, Silchar, from 1st November 2021 to 31st October 2022. The aim of the study is the pattern of head injuries in fatal road traffic accident. Out of the 981 autopsy cases were conducted during the above-mentioned period, a total of 200 cases were found deaths due to head injuries. Out of 200 cases, common age group involved was from 40-50 years, the deceased were more from rural areas. Maximum cases during winter season. Commonest injuries were scalp abrasion, linear fracture of skull and subdural haemorrhage. Head injury has become a common cause of death and disability among Road Traffic Accident cases. This further shows the need of strict implementations of traffic rules. Positive policy initiatives such as mandatory helmet legislation need reliable and consistent data to support ongoing monitoring and enforcement of such initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International trade in table grapes is expanding rapidly, with Peru overtaking South Africa as the second-largest exporter from the Southern Hemisphere behind Chile. The primary objective of the study was to the determine whether South Africa, with 75% of its exports destined for Europe, will be negatively affected by changes in Peru and Chile's export orientation. This question is addressed by breaking it down into four key factors. The first is the role of policy by applying Anderson et al.'s (2006) empirical framework of nominal rate of assistance (NRA) followed by measures of competitiveness, namely relative trade advantage (RTA), normalised revealed comparative advantage (NRCA) and the logarithmic relative export advantage (InRXA). The last two measures – indirect freight cost and trade barriers - zoom in on trade from one country to a specific destination. The results and discussion highlight that Peru, operating in close to a zero-distorted environment, has the potential to increase its competitiveness in the global table grape market. Whilst South Africa's table grape exporters also have this potential, given the advantages of a depreciating rand, broader and more favourable market access outside the EU and UK is paramount. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) belongs to the gamma herpesvirus family, which can cause human malignancies including Kaposi sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma, and multicentric Castleman’s diseases. KSHV typically maintains a persistent latent infection within the host. However, after exposure to intracellular or extracellular stimuli, KSHV lytic replication can be reactivated. The reactivation process of KSHV triggers the innate immune response to limit viral replication. Here, we found that the transcriptional regulator RUNX3 is transcriptionally upregulated by the NF-κB signaling pathway in KSHV-infected SLK cells and B cells during KSHV reactivation. Notably, knockdown of RUNX3 significantly promotes viral lytic replication as well as the gene transcription of KSHV. Consistent with this finding, overexpression of RUNX3 impairs viral lytic replication. Mechanistically, RUNX3 binds to the KSHV genome and limits viral replication through transcriptional repression, which is related to its DNA- and ATP-binding ability. However, KSHV has also evolved corresponding strategies to antagonize this inhibition by using the viral protein RTA to target RUNX3 for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Altogether, our study suggests that RUNX3, a novel host-restriction factor of KSHV that represses the transcription of viral genes, may serve as a potential target to restrict KSHV transmission and disease development. IMPORTANCE The reactivation of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) from latent infection to lytic replication is important for persistent viral infection and tumorigenicity. However, reactivation is a complex event, and the regulatory mechanisms of this process are not fully elucidated. Our study revealed that the host RUNX3 is upregulated by the NF-κB signaling pathway during KSHV reactivation, which can repress the transcription of KSHV genes. At the late stage of lytic replication, KSHV utilizes a mechanism involving RTA to degrade RUNX3, thus evading host inhibition. This finding helps elucidate the regulatory mechanism of the KSHV life cycle and may provide new clues for the development of therapeutic strategies for KSHV-associated diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This research shows that the diffusion of grown-in and implanted Be atoms in III-V considered semiconductor materials, such as the Liquid-Encapsulated Czochralski-grown (LEC) GaAs as well as the Gas-Source Molecular Beam Epitaxy (GSMBE) In0.53Ga0.47As, In0.73Ga0.27As0.58P0.42, In0.53Ga0.47As/In0.73Ga0.27As0.58P0.42, In0.53Ga0.47As/InP compounds, taking place during the Rapid Thermal Annealing (RTA) process, is perfectly well explained by the "full" version of the kick-out mechanism operating through singly positively ionized Be interstitials and group III self-interstitial ions (Ga, In) in all their states of positive charge including neutral. Numerical solutions of the differential equations, corresponding to the considered system of diffusion reactions, have been calculated using the finite difference approach and our elaborate finite difference-Bairstow method. Such a model naturally emerges from most research works, including ours, in the considered field, over the last decades and makes it possible to "reconcile" their different diffusion models. In this study, we also present and analyze the Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) profiles of the distribution of implanted Be in GaAs at an energy of 100 keV with a high dose of 1.0 ⋅ 1015cm−2 and annealed at temperatures ranging from 700 to 850 °C for à time ranging from 60 to 240s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the result of surgical management of distal humerus fractures using distal humerus plates. Methodology: This is a prospective study done in the Department of Orthopaedics, Guntur Medical college, Guntur for a period of 2 years i.e., from May 2018 to April 2020. Sample of study was 12 patients. Results: In the present study, mean age was 37 years. Majority of the patients (33) belonged to the age group of 17-33 years. 50% of the patients were above 44 years of age. Equal number of male and female patients. 5 patients have Rt side and 7 patients had Lf side involvement. e) 8 patients had RTA and 4 patients had self-fall. Fracture union seen in 10 (83%) patients by 12 weeks, 2 patients (17%) had nonunion due to complications. 1 patient (8.3%) reported elbow stiffness and 1 patient (8.3%) reported infection after 24 weeks of ORIF. The infection was superficial. Conclusion: We conclude as per AO principles that early operative intervention with distal humerus bicolumnar plating for distal humerus fracture results in good functional outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To study the overall clinic-epidemiologic profile of orbital and/or periocular injuries and their important causes in various age groups in patients presenting to a tertiary care centre. Study design and Methods: Prospective observational study. Consecutive patients of all age groups with periorbital or orbital trauma both blunt and penetrating were included. Minor cuts and abrasions not requiring primary repair, thermal and chemical injuries and patients not willing for consent were excluded. A detailed history regarding the mode, type, place of injury was taken. Visual acuity and detailed ocular examination was done to look for associated ocular injuries. Results: Out of 118 patients, 86% were males. Significant difference was found except in children ≤5 years where no predominance was found. Most common place of injury in children <18years was at home (61%), and in all children ≤5 years, the place of injury was at home. In patients above 18years most common place of injury was outdoors (46%). Most common mode of injury in <18 years was road traffic accidents, followed by falls. Most common in <5 year children was blouse hook injury in 39%, fall in 28%, dog bite in 17%. 5-18 years-RTA in 42%, wooden stick in 21%, fall in 17%. <5 years-most common type of injury was canalicular injury in 67% (most commonly due to blouse hook fastener), lid laceration in 22%. 5-18 years-most common injury was traumatic optic neuropathy in 33%, fracture orbit in 29%, lid laceration in 20%. >18 years-lid laceration was most common injury in 30%, fracture orbit in 29%, traumatic optic neuropathy in 22%. Associated ocular injury-Seen in 11% cases. Conclusions: Majority of patients who get periocular or orbital injuries were males except in patients less than 5 years. Canalicular injury by blouse hook was most common in children less than 5 years of age. Blouse hook injury is found to be a major avoidable cause of injury in less than 5-year-old children, followed by falls and dog-bite injury. Blouse hook injury is peculiar to Indian scenario. Most of the injuries in children occur at home. Road traffic accidents are a major cause of trauma in adolescents and adults. Traumatic optic neuropathy was common in adolescents whereas lid laceration and fracture orbit were most common in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is an oncogenic DNA virus whose lytic replication cycle is induced and driven by the viral transcription factor RTA (replication and transcription activator). Identifying what cellular and viral proteins RTA is interacting with during lytic reactivation can help to better understand how RTA promotes the lytic cycle. Using a proteomic approach, we identified the cellular E3 ubiquitin ligase complex RNF20/40 as a novel interacting partner of RTA. One of the major roles of this protein complex is the monoubiquitylation of histone H2B at lysine 120 on cellular chromatin, which is a hallmark of transcriptionally active genes. While the role of RNF20/40 has been studied on different host genomes, its potential to regulate viral genes remains largely unexplored. Here, we show that the shRNA inhibition of RNF20 expression impairs RTA-induced host and viral lytic gene expression, viral DNA replication, and virus production. In addition, we found that the association of RNF20 with the KSHV episome increases during lytic reactivation, and the binding of RTA to viral promoters is required for the synergistic promoter activation by RTA and RNF20/40. Interestingly, the inhibition of RNF20 expression during lytic reactivation of KSHV did not affect H2BK120ub level but it did reduce RNA polymerase II occupancy on viral promoters. Overall, our data suggest that RTA is hijacking the cellular E3 ligase complex RNF20/40 to increase the level of transcriptionally active RNA polymerase II on viral gene promoters thereby facilitating lytic gene expression to advance the viral lytic cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Road safety continues to be a major developmental issue, a public health concern and a leading cause of death and injury affecting not only the victims and their family but also the economy as a whole in terms of untimely deaths, disabilities and loss of potential income. India ranks 2nd in the number of road accidents and 1st in mortality due to RTA in the world. Road accidents are multi-causal due to interplay of various factors. These can be broadly categorized into those relating to (a) Human error (b) Road condition/ environment (c) Vehicle condition. Human errors for RTA include non-compliance to traffic rules and not using helmets and seatbelts, resulting in mortalities which can be mitigated by proper education, adherence and implementation of traffic rules. Objective: To analyze the mortality trends due to RTA by human errors in Chhattisgarh and India 2016-2022 Methodology: The RTA mortality statistics were retrieved from the Road accidents in India report published annually by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. A literature search was done in electronic databases like-PubMed, Google Scholar, other platforms using keywords- RTA mortality, Distracted driving Results: From 2016 to 2022, both Chhattisgarh and India experienced a steady rise in fatalities, peaking in 2022 due to overspeeding and helmet non-compliance. In 2019, India saw its peak in fatalities from alcohol-related driving, mobile use, and signal jumping, followed by a decline. Chhattisgarh experienced the highest signal jumping fatalities in 2017 and alcohol-relatedriving deaths in 2018 compared to other years Conclusion: The study reveals a decrease in road traffic accident fatalities caused by certain human errors post-2019, credited to the adoption of the Motor Vehicle Amendment Act 2019. Boosting public awareness and establishing robust surveillance measures are imperative in curbing fatalities caused by road traffic accidents (RTAs)

Background: Cervical spine injuries (CSIs) resulting from road traffic accidents (RTAs) significantly contribute to global fatalities and disabilities. Therefore, immediate first aid for individuals with cervical spine injuries in RTAs is essential for reducing complications. This study aimed to assess knowledge acquisition and retention in the first-aid management of cervical spine injuries among first rescuers in Mzuzu City, Malawi, following a low-fidelity simulation intervention. Methods: A Pre-test – post-test quasi-experimental study design was employed. A total of 84 participants including police officers, minibus drivers, ambulance drivers, and community members aged 18 years and above, were selected using a non-randomised sampling technique. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Descriptive statistics, Chi-squared tests, and paired t-tests were used in this study. Results: During the pre-test, only 24(28.6 %) (n = 84) participants had good knowledge of first aid for cervical spine injury first aid (CSI FA). This number increased significantly to 70 (83.3 %) (n = 84) immediately following the post-test and remained at 64 (80.0 %) (n = 80) at the 4-month post-test. An association was noted between the level of knowledge and previous training in road traffic accident (RTA) first aid (FA) (p = 0.001). Additionally, the results also indicated a significant difference between the CSI FA knowledge mean score before the low-fidelity simulation intervention and the mean score immediately after the intervention and four months post-intervention (p = 0.000). Conclusion: The participants in the study initially demonstrated poor pre-test knowledge, which significantly improved after the post-test and remained good with slight degradation four months later. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of low-fidelity simulation in the acquisition and retention of CSI FA knowledge among first rescuers.

Various methods of analysis are available to analyze production data in order to estimate the intrinsic features of the well and the reservoir condition in the current state. The parameter estimated from all of these analyses when performed separately often demonstrate poor agreement because each of them was developed using different assumptions. This paper discusses the most common analysis methods that can be performed in combination on production data including empirical decline curve analyzing method, analytical type curves analysis, and the flowing material balancing technique that can actually be used for calculating reservoir or well properties including original oil in place (OOIP), ultimate oil recovery (EUR), drainage area (A), skin factor (S), and well permeability(K). These techniques applied on Mshrif formation/Buzurgan oil field to estimate the above parameters by the three methods. These methods have the advantage of being able to predict and analyze using flow rate and well flowing pressure without needing to shut in the well to predict average pressure of reservoir that is essential in most estimations. The result showed that both analytical Blasingame type curve method and flowing material balance gave analogous estimations but didn't agree with Arp's empirical method estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distal Femur fractures are a highly incident complex case and pose a challenge to the treating orthopedician. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of this study were to assess radiological union of distal femoral fractures by open reduction and internal fixation with locking compression plate, To study the functional outcome for internal fixation of fractures of the distal end femur by Locking Compression Plate and To evaluate the effectiveness and complications of distal end femur fractures treated with Locking Compression Plate based on, time till union, rate of infection, and fixation failures, functional outcome using NEER'S SCORE. Materials and Methods: The present study was done from April 2017 to April 2018 which comprised of fifteen patients with closed Distal end Femoral Fractures who where treated by Locking Compression plate. Overall final outcome was assessed in terms of radiological union, clinical assessment and regaining the lost knee function using NEER'S Score. Results: Out of 15 patients, 12 patients were males and 3 patients were females.Out of 15 patients, 14 were due to RTA. Maximum number of cases was of Muller type C2-60%. Internal fixation was considered after patients general and medical condition was stabilized. The average operative time was 90 minutes. The size of plate was selected based on the type of fracture. 6 to 10 hole plate were used most commonly. Of 15 patients, 10(66.66%) showed radiological union within 16 weeks. 9 (60%) of the patients achieved weight bearing at the end of 14 weeks. Average flexion in this study was 100 degree with more than 3 (20%) patients having knee range of motion more than 110 degree. 1 Patient had stiff knee. More than 80% patients were extensor lag less than 5 degree. 2 patients had VARUS MALALIGNMENT out of 15 patients.Results according to NEER'S SCORE were Excellent in 20% patients, Good in 60%, Satisfactory in 6.6% and unsatisfactory in 13.3% patients. 2 patients had superficial infection and 1 patient had delayed union. Conclusion: Locking compression plate is an optimal tool for Distal end femoral fractures. It provides rigid fixation in the region of femur, where a wide canal, thin cortices and frequently poor bone stock make fixation difficult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion implantation induced damage in GaSb and its removal by rapid thermal annealing (RTA) have been investigated by Raman spectroscopy. The evolution of the Raman modes as a function of implantation fluence, annealing temperature and time has been analyzed. Results indicate that a lattice quality that is close to as-grown GaSb has been obtained by annealing the implanted samples at 500 °C for 45 s. However, consequent surface analyses by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) show that a heavily perturbed layer contains voids due to the outdiffusion of Sb atoms on the surface remains. Mechanism of the damage recovery and the structure of the implanted layer are discussed based on the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gambling has captivated me to deep down the inner motivations of card players that sustain their shuffling desires. A sense of exploration to unmask the realities behind risk and reward leads to the qualitative exploration of eight gamblers. The transcribed data converged into the five primary motives driving gambling behavior. The study took care of ethics throughout the research process. The rigor of the study was taken care of by the criteria of Tracy (2010). In-depth interviews open up the close corridors of wonder, and reflexive thematic analysis (2019) empowered me to understand the unique perspectives of card players. These include psychological factors, encompassing emotional engagement, thrill, suspense, and intrigue; social factors, comprising social context and participation, social perception, and social bonding; financial factors, including financial necessity and financial management; and entertainment and management factors, encapsulating game preference, self-regulation, and caution. Furthermore, the study highlights the significance of legality and ethical concerns in shaping the landscape of gambling motivations. This study may provide the first baseline of data to understand the hidden motives of Pakistani gamblers This research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the act of gambling among male card players only. In the future, we are convinced to study the addictive secrets of female gamblers, specifically in the locale of Sindh, where females take part in card-based gambling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents answers to a clinical quiz about weight loss and metabolic acidosis in a neonate.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a human oncogenic γ-herpesvirus that establishes persistent infection in more than 90% of the world's population. EBV has two life cycles, latency and lytic replication. Reactivation of EBV from latency to the lytic cycle is initiated and controlled by two viral immediate-early transcription factors, Zta and Rta, encoded by BZLF1 and BRLF1, respectively. In this study, we found that IQGAP2 expression was elevated in EBV-infected B cells and identified Rta as a viral gene responsible for the IQGAP2 upregulation in both B cells and nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines. Mechanistically, we showed that Rta increases IQGAP2 expression through direct binding to the Rta-responsive element in the IQGAP2 promoter. We also demonstrated the direct interaction between Rta and IQGAP2 as well as their colocalization in the nucleus. Functionally, we showed that the induced IQGAP2 is required for the Rta-mediated Rta promoter activation in the EBV lytic cycle progression and may influence lymphoblastoid cell line clumping morphology through regulating E-cadherin expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The relationship between hypertension (HT) and serum liver enzymes was reported in a few studies, but the findings were inconsistent. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify the association between elevated serum liver enzymes and raised BP through the use of a large sample of Royal Thai Army (RTA) personnel. Methods The dataset obtained from the annual health examination database of RTA personnel in Thailand was utilized. A total of 244,281 RTA personnel aged 35–60 were included in the current study. Elevated serum liver enzymes were defined as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≥ 40 U/L in males and ≥ 35 U/L in females. HT was defined as systolic BP ≥ 140 or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg. A multivariable linear regression model was used to estimate the coefficient and 95% confidence intervals (CI), whereas a multivariable logistic regression model was applied to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% CI for the association between raised BP and serum liver enzymes. Results Compared to individuals with SBP

Background: Facial nerve palsy following trauma, is an uncommon condition which occurs in 1.5% patients of skull base fractures, majority of them due to road traffic accidents causing temporal bone fractures. Indication and timing of facial nerve decompression for facial paralysis and anatomical extent of decompression has been a subject of controversy for years. The aim of this study is to present prospective review of 10 patients with immediate facial paralysis after trauma that underwent either surgical decompression of facial nerve via trans mastoid approach or conservative management. Objectives-To know age and sex wise distribution of immediate posttraumatic facial nerve palsy and to know most common grade of presentation according to H-B scale and most common type of temporal bone fractures and segment of facial nerve involved. To study outcome (within 1 month) of various modes of management of immediate posttraumatic facial nerve palsy. Material And Methods: After approval from ethics committee, this prospective cross-sectional study was carried out in 10 patients presented with immediate facial nerve palsy due to trauma at ENT department of Sir T Hospital, Bhavnagar over a period of 1 year from July 2022 to June 2023. After taking consent, proper history was taken and time of RTA and time of presentation at ENT OPD was separately noted. Patients were examined and graded using House and Brackman grading system. All the patients were evaluated and treated either by conservative management (Injectable steroids with facial physiotherapy) or surgical decompression via trans mastoid approach. Result: Most common age group involved was the young adolescents (20-30years) who are more prone to RTA and traumatic injuries. Numbers of males affected were more than females in our study. Tympanic segment of facial nerve was found to be involved in maximum number of patients. Patients with transverse fracture of temporal bone causing immediate posttraumatic facial palsy were found to have better prognosis with surgical decompression. Patients with longitudinal fracture of temporal bone can go for either conservative management or if no improvement found within 7days were taken for surgical decompression of facial nerve via trans mastoid approach. Most of the patients who were managed surgically were found to have better prognosis according to this study. Conclusion: We draw the conclusion from our study that early diagnosis and surgical intervention significantly improved prognosis for immediate facial palsy following trauma. The trans mastoid approach for facial nerve decompression can be utilized when trauma is clearly localized to the tympanic or mastoid segment of facial nerve. Transverse fracture of temporal bone should be always treated with immediate surgical decompression and in longitudinal fractures both conservative and surgical management plays an important role. Appropriate post-operative management with oral steroids and physiotherapy plays an important role in traumatic facial nerve palsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic brain injury is still and will be a major cause of mortality and morbidity in India. Day by day there is an increase in motor vehicles and road traffic accidents in India. Epidemiological studies that are conducted regularly shall be useful for policy making, deployment of roadside assistance, and formulating preventive measures for traumatic brain injuries. Methods: In this retrospective study, all the traumatic brain injuries admitted to Department of Neurosurgery, Guntur medical college during January 2023 to December 2023 are studied. Results: Among 924 patients admitted with traumatic brain injury, the most susceptible age group was found to be the 31-40-year group. 2. The male gender is a susceptible gender group with a ratio of 6.22: 1 compared to females. 3.Road traffic accidents [RTA] is the most common mode of traumatic brain injury. Conclusion: This is a study conducted at a district headquarters medical college level with radial population habitation and highway proximity. It has both urban and rural populations in its catering area. Regular and multicentric studies will provide comprehensive and distinctive data about the epidemiology of traumatic brain injuries in this vast subcontinent of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Hypertriglyceridemia is a common health problem independently associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), including ischemic heart disease and stroke. This study aims to determine the prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia among Royal Thai Army (RTA) personnel and its behavioral and cardiometabolic risk factors using the RTA personnel database of the physical health examination from 2017 to 2021. Methods A serial cross-sectional study was conducted from 2017 to 2021. A total of 257,683 active-duty RTA personnel aged 35–60 years were included in the study. We defined hypertriglyceridemia as fasting triglyceride ≥150 mg/dL. Moreover, we performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis to investigate behavioral and cardiometabolic risk factors for the prevalence of hypertriglyceridemia. The magnitude of the association was presented as an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results The hypertriglyceridemia prevalence among RTA personnel was 43.4% (95% CI: 42.9–43.8%) in 2017. It then continuously decreased to 40.3% (95% CI: 39.9–40.7%) in 2020 and slightly rose to 41.0% (95% CI: 40.6–41.4%) in 2021 (p for trend

Improvement in crystallinity was investigated by compensating for stoichiometric deviations of non-selenization processed Cu0.9In0.7Ga0.3Se2 (CIGS) thin films due to highly volatile Se by co-sputtering them with Te followed by rapid thermal annealing. The prepared CIGS:Te thin films did not show any linear correlation between the compositional ratio and the co-sputtering time of Te; however, the deviation parameter (Δs) from the stoichiometry and normalized stoichiometric deviations of Se + Te and In + Ga were largely consistent with the behavior of thin-film properties. The proposed method provides better crystallinity with a large grain size, clear grain boundaries, and low microstrain and dislocation density, resulting in a large volume of the unit cell. The CIGS:Te thin films used as absorbers show improved optical properties compared to the conventional CIGS thin films, with Eg = 1.548 eV. These results can advance the low-cost commercialization of the enhanced-efficiency CIGS:Te thin films without the selenization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]