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Harnessing green hydrogen production from natural Red Sea water offers an innovative solution to address energy challenges. A one-pot fabrication method is used to create novel nanocomposite thin films with open-spherical shapes, utilizing copper sulfide/poly-O-amino benzenethiol decorated on copper oxide as a promising photocathode. After thorough analysis, a unique morphology characterized by open spherical shapes is projected, which contributes to improved optical absorption. The bandgap of the nanocomposite is 1.17 eV, enabling efficient absorption of light across the entire optical spectrum, extending up to 950 nm. Utilizing Red Sea water as an electrolyte, the generated J ph serves as an indicator of H2 gas production. The substantial J ph value of −0.82 mA cm−2 is achieved at −0.85 V under light illumination. Furthermore, J ph values exhibit variability, starting at −0.58 mA cm−2 (at 730 nm) and increasing to −0.75 mA cm−2 at a wavelength of 340 nm. The estimated hydrogen gas production rate reaches 1.5 µmole h−1 cm−2, translating to an impressive 15 µmole h−1 for every 10 cm². This remarkable rate underscores the effectiveness of the photocathode, especially given its fabrication through a single-step process that is suitable for mass production. In addition, its cost-effectiveness further enhances its appeal as a viable solution for renewable energy production for hydrogen gas generation from seawater.

Abstract Background We evaluated the efficacy of different immunosuppressive regimens in patients with primary membranous nephropathy in a large national cohort. Methods In this registry study, 558 patients from 47 centers who were treated with at least one immunosuppressive agent and had adequate follow-up data were included. Primary outcome was defined as complete (CR) or partial remission (PR). Secondary composite outcome was at least a 50% reduction in estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR), initiation of kidney replacement therapies, development of stage 5 chronic kidney disease, or death. Results Median age at diagnosis was 48 (IQR: 37–57) years, and 358 (64.2%) were male. Patients were followed for a median of 24 (IQR: 12–60) months. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) with or without glucocorticoids were the most commonly used regimen (43.4%), followed by glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide (GC-CYC) (39.6%), glucocorticoid monotherapy (25.8%), and rituximab (RTX) (9.1%). Overall remission rate was 66.1% (CR 26.7%, PR 39.4%), and 59 (10.6%) patients reached secondary composite outcome. Multivariate logistic regression showed that baseline eGFR (OR 1.011, 95% CI: 1.003–1.019, p = 0.007), serum albumin (OR 1.682, 95% CI: 1.269–2.231, p

Abstract Saffron is the world's most expensive and legendary crop that is widely used in cuisine, drugs, and cosmetics. Therefore, the demand for saffron is increasing globally day by day. Despite its massive demand the cultivation of saffron has dramatically decreased and grown in only a few countries. Saffron is an environment-sensitive crop that is affected by various factors including rapid change in climate, light intensity, pH level, soil moisture, salinity level, and inappropriate cultivation techniques. It is not possible to control many of these environmental factors in traditional farming. Although, many innovative technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) have been used to enhance the growth of saffron still, there is a dire need for a system that can overcome primary issues related to saffron growth. In this research, we have proposed an IoT-based system for the greenhouse to control the numerous agronomical variables such as corm size, temperature, humidity, pH level, soil moisture, salinity, and water availability. The proposed architecture monitors and controls environmental factors automatically and sends real-time data from the greenhouse to the microcontroller. The sensed values of various agronomical variables are compared with threshold values and saved at cloud for sending to the farm owner for efficient management. The experiment results reveal that the proposed system is capable to maximize saffron production in the greenhouse by controlling environmental factors as per crop needs.

Abstract Folates are B-group vitamins that function in one-carbon metabolism. Here we show that a specific folate can activate serotonergic neurons in C. elegans to modulate behavior through a pathway that requires the folate receptor FOLR-1 and the GON-2 calcium channel. FOLR-1 and GON-2 physically interact in a heterologous system, and both are expressed in the HSN and NSM serotonergic neurons. Both the folate 10-formyl-THF and a non-metabolic pteroate induce increases in the number of Ca2+ transients in the HSN neurons and egg laying in an FOLR-1- and GON-2-dependent manner. FOLR-1 and GON-2 are required for the activation of the NSM neurons in response to 10-formyl-THF, and for full NSM-mediated stoppage of movement when starved animals encounter bacteria. Our results demonstrate that FOLR-1 acts independently of one-carbon metabolism and suggest that 10-formyl-THF acts as a dietary signal that activates serotonergic neurons to impact behavior through a pathway that involves calcium entry.

Abstract Objective To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Oshawa Senior Community Centres (OSCC55 +) virtual programs (VP) in addressing the needs for social connection and interaction for people with dementia (PWD) and their informal caregivers (ICG). Background During the pandemic, PWD faced increased loneliness and reduced social interaction due to a loss of community programs. The OSCC55 + developed VPs to combat social isolation and provide respite for ICG. These efforts highlight the importance of accessible, and technology-based VPs for maintaining social connectedness for PWD. Methods A qualitative interpretive research design with PWD (n = 14) interviews and ICG focus group and one-on-one interviews (n = 11). This research explored the lived experiences of PWD and their ICG, examining the feasibility and acceptability of the VPs. Results The PWD and ICG interviews provided insight into the positive impacts of VP, challenges of VP, program barriers, program facilitating factors, and suggestions for future improvement for the OSCC55 + VPs. Participants highlighted that the VP created an option for them to remain socially connected to their community; while also outlining the positive impact on reducing loneliness, challenges with technology use, the importance of involving younger generations and volunteers, and the need for more culturally inclusive programs. Conclusions The VP developed by OSCC55 + were perceived as effective and useful for PWD and their ICG, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and relieving caregiving tasks. These findings suggest that VP can complement in-person programs in the future, offering a hybrid model that leverages the strengths of both approaches to better meet the needs of PWD and ICG.

Background and Aim: Trypanosomiasis, a parasitic infection caused by various Trypanosoma species, poses a significant threat to global livestock, affecting both human health and economic sectors. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Trypanosoma evansi in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, focusing on key ruminant species, including camels, cattle, buffaloes, goats, and sheep. Materials and Methods: A total of 240 blood samples, comprising 48 samples from each animal species (camel, cattle, buffaloes, goat, and sheep) were collected from three districts in Southern Punjab. The collected samples were subjected to thin smear microscopy, DNA extraction, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The molecular characterization was conducted using the TBR primer set, which targeted repeated satellite DNA regions and the cytochrome oxidase II gene of T. evansi. Results: About 22.08% (53/240) of overall samples were positive for trypanosomiasis, with prevalence rates being 23.75% (19/80), 21.25% (17/80), and 21.75% (17/80) for districts Muzaffargarh, Lodhran, and Bahawalpur, respectively. 5.83% (14/240) of samples tested for T. evansi using PCR were positive in the districts of Muzaffargarh 7.50% (6/80), Lodhran 5.00% (4/80), and Bahawalpur 5.00% (4/80). Among the animals tested, camels had the highest positivity rate. The microscopic examination confirmed infection rates of 45.83% (22/48) for camels, 18.75% (9/48) for cattle, 8.33% (4/48) for buffaloes, 18.75% (9/48) for goats, and 18.75% (9/48) for sheep (p < 0.001). PCR results did not reveal substantial differences (p < 0.05) in prevalence: camels 12.50% (6/48), cattle 6.25% (3/48), buffaloes 0% (0/48), goats 8.33% (4/48), sheep 2.08% (1/48); while distinct disparities were detected district-wise: Muzaffargarh 23.75% (19/80), Lodhran 21.25% (17/80), and Bahawalpur 21.25% (17/80). The PCR results for these districts were insignificantly different: 7.50% (6/80), 5% (4/80), and 5% (4/80). The microscopic infection rate in camels from Bahawalpur was 56.30% (9/16). The microscopic analysis in Buffaloes reported a 6.30% (1/16) infection rate, but PCR results indicated no infections (0%) in any district. A significant difference (p < 0.001) in identifying Trypanosoma species was found between positively and negatively tested animals in both microscopic and PCR methods. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the necessity of regularly using PCR-based screening for its superior sensitivity and specificity over traditional microscopy. The varying occurrence of trypanosomiasis among districts reflects the intricate nature of this diseases epidemiology in the region. Reducing economic losses from trypanosomiasis in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, requires targeted interventions, such as vector control measures and farmer education.

In an era dominated by the Internet of Things (IoT), protecting interconnected devices from botnets has become essential. This study introduces an innovative hybrid deep learning model that synergizes LSTM Auto Encoders and Multilayer Perceptrons in detecting botnets in IoTs. The fusion of these technologies facilitates the analysis of sequential data and pattern recognition, enabling the model to detect intricate botnet activities within IoT networks. The proposed model's performance was carefully evaluated on two large IoT traffic datasets, N-BAIoT2018 and UNSW-NB15, where it demonstrated exceptional accuracy of 99.77 % and 99.67 % respectively for botnet detection. These results not only demonstrate the model's superior performance over existing botnet detection systems but also highlight its potential as a robust solution for IoT network security.

Background: Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery is safe and feasible procedure for benign gynaecological conditions with less morbidity. Objective: To determine the best approach in benign gynecology and establish superiority of robotic over conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy in terms of safety and effectiveness. Methods: Search strategy: Electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL (the Registry of Controlled Clinical Studies of the Cochrane Collaboration), Google scholar, Pubmed and Scopus were searched from 2010-2022. Selection criteria: All randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials which compared robotic versus conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy were included to conduct this systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate compared to traditional approaches. Results: Only five RCTs (326 patients in total) comparing robotic and conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy were included after a comprehensive literature search. Results of our analysis showed no clear benefit in any of the two techniques in operating time, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay and overall complications. Conclusion: This systematic review suggests no statistical difference in surgical and patient outcomes between robotic and conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy relating to OT, EBL, LOHS, overall complications, and survival.

Utilizing an innovative and highly light-absorbing photocathode, the direct conversion of hydrogen gas from Red Sea water is achieved. This involves creating a new nanocomposite thin film through a one-pot synthesis method, combining poly(O-chloroaniline) with trichalcogenides (MoS3) and MoO3 (MoS3–molebednium oxide/poly(o-chloroaniline)). This nanocomposite has remarkable morphological and optical properties with potential as a photocathode for hydrogen generation by harnessing the power of Red Sea water. This nanocomposite exhibits a unique semi-spherical architecture, with an average size of around 150 nm. These semi-spherical particles are surrounded by a dense network of fibers, forming a complex structure that provides ample space for trapping photons when exposed to light. The distinctive morphology significantly influences the optical properties of this nanocomposite, showing strong absorbance across a wide range of optical wavelengths up to ∼700 nm, with a promising bandgap of 1.75 eV. The hydrogen generation is quantified by measuring the generated photocurrent density (J ph) as a function of the light incidence frequency using various optical filters at a fixed potential of −0.8 V. The highest J ph values are recorded at −0.558 and −0.553 mA·cm−2 for wavelengths of 340 and 440 nm, respectively; the value reaches its maximum at the white light with a wavelength of −0.63 mA·cm−2. Elevating the temperature from 30°C to 50°C results in a substantial enhancement of the J ph values, increasing from −0.63 to −0.71 mA·cm−2, respectively. This temperature increase leads to a noteworthy improvement in incidnce photon to current conversion from 1.85% to 2.22%. This photoelectrode demonstrates not only cost-effectiveness but also eco-friendliness, making it an attractive choice for H2 generation by Red Sea water as a natural, environmentally friendly, and economically viable hydrogen source. Consequently, this study holds significant promise for industrial applications due to its economic and eco-friendly characteristics.

الملخص: أهداف البحث: يتطور الإجهاد التأكسدي بسبب اضطراب في توازن مضادات الأكسدة الداعمة للأول ويمكن وصفه بأنه اضطراب في إشارات الأكسدة والاختزال والتحكم فيها. يعد السيليكوكسيب، وهو مثبط انتقائي لـ''كوكس-2''، دواء فعالا لتسكين الألم والالتهاب. ومع ذلك، ثبت أن السيليكوكسيب يسبب إصابة مؤكسدة للأنسجة الكبدية عن طريق بيروكسيد الدهون المعزز الذي يؤدي إلى الإنتاج المفرط لأنواع الأكسجين التفاعلية. ولذلك فإن استخدامه المتكرر أو على المدى الطويل قد يؤدي إلى آثار جانبية كبدية وكلوية وغيرها من الآثار الجانبية الملحوظة. الليكوبين (لايكو) هو أحد مضادات الأكسدة القوية التي تتواجد بشكل طبيعي في الفواكه والخضروات المصبوغة. وهو مزيل نشط للأكسجين المفرد والجذور الحرة الأخرى وبالتالي حماية الخلايا من هدم غشاء البلازما الذي تسببه الجذور الحرة. طريقة البحث: افترضت الدراسة أن اللايكو قد يحمي خلايا كبد الفئران من الإجهاد التأكسدي الناجم عن السيليكوكسيب، مما يقلل من تسلل الدهون واستنفاد الجليكوجين. تم تقسيم الفئران بشكل عشوائي إلى ثلاث مجموعات (10 فئران / مجموعة): المجموعة الضابطة أ (المحلول الملحي فقط)، المجموعة ب السيليكوكسيب (50 مجم / كجم، عن طريق الفم)، المجموع ج السيليكوكسيب+اللايكو (50 مجم / كجم، عن طريق الفم) لمدة 30 يوما. بعد ذلك، تم فحص أنسجة الكبد لمعرفة متوسط وزن الكبد والتغيرات النسيجية في محتوى الدهون والجليكوجين. النتائج: خفف اللايكو من تلف خلايا الكبد في الفئران المعالجة بـ السيليكوكسيب، مما قلل من تراكم الدهون وفقدان الجليكوجين، على الأرجح من خلال خصائصه المضادة للأكسدة. يمكن أن يؤدي تناول اللايكو و السيليكوكسيب المصاحب إلى منع الآثار الجانبية السامة للكبد فيما يتعلق بالإصابة التأكسدية التي يتبعها مرض الكبد الدهني غير الكحولي، وهو أحد مكونات متلازمة التمثيل الغذائي الرئيسية. علاوة على ذلك، كشف اتجاه ربط اللايكوبين في موقع الربط لإنزيم ''كوكس-2'' أن المركب المرسى أظهر قوة ربط كبيرة. الاستنتاجات: في الختام، تكشف دراستنا عن سلوك حماية اللايكوبين ضد تلف الكبد الناجم عن السيليكوكسيب عن طريق تقليل استنزاف الدهون والجليكوجين. Abstract: Objective: Oxidative stress develops because of a shift in the prooxidant–antioxidant balance toward the former, because of disturbances in redox signaling and control. Celecoxib (Cb), a selective COX-2 inhibitor, is a drug that effectively decreases pain and inflammation. However, Cb causes oxidative injury to hepatic tissues via enhanced lipid peroxidation, thus resulting in excessive production of reactive oxygen species. Consequently, frequent or long-term Cb use may lead to hepatic, renal, and other noticeable adverse effects. Lycopene (lyco), a potent antioxidant naturally occurring in pigmented fruits and vegetables, actively eradicates singlet oxygen and other free radicals, thereby protecting cells against destruction of the plasma membrane by free radicals. Methods: We hypothesized that lyco might protect rat liver cells against Cb-induced oxidative stress, thus reducing fatty infiltration and glycogen depletion. Rats were randomized into three groups (with ten rats each) receiving control (group A, saline only), Cb (group B, 50 mg/kg, orally), or Cb + lyco (group C, 50 mg/kg, orally) for 30 days. Subsequently, liver tissues were examined, and the average liver weight and histological changes in fat and glycogen content were determined. Results: Lyco mitigated hepatocyte damage in Cb-treated rats, reducing fat accumulation and glycogen loss, probably through its antioxidant properties. Concomitant lyco and Cb intake prevented hepatotoxic adverse effects due to oxidative injury, as well as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a key component of metabolic syndrome. Moreover, the binding orientation of lyco in the binding site of COX-2 enzyme revealed that the docked complex had noteworthy binding strength. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study revealed lyco's protective effects against Cb-induced hepatic damage by reducing fat and glycogen depletion.

Abstract Background The prevalence of cardiovascular disease is burgeoning in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In sub-Saharan Africa, the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors is increasing, though rates of CVD diagnosis and management remain low. Awareness of the influence of social determinants of health (SDOH) on cardiovascular outcomes is growing, however, most work focuses on high-income countries. Material needs security is a measure of SDOH that may be particularly relevant for LMICs. This study investigated the relationship between material needs security and cardiovascular risk in older adults living in South Africa. Methods The analysis included 5059 respondents age ≥ 40 in the Health and Aging in Africa survey, an observational cohort study administered in 2014 in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Linear regression models tested the association between material needs and eight cardiovascular risk factors (waist-to-hip ratio, body mass index, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides). Adjusted linear regression models controlled for sociodemographic confounders. Results There were significant adjusted associations found between increased material needs security and four cardiovascular risk factors, including waist-to-hip ratio (β = 0.001; 95% CI [0.00002,0.002]), BMI (β = 0.19; 95%CI=[0.14,0.24]), glucose (β = 0.46; 95%CI=[0.02,0.90]), and triglycerides (β = 0.26; 95%CI=[0.02,0.49]). Conclusion Increased material needs security was associated with significantly increased cardiovascular risk in older adults in rural South Africa. These findings can inform the approach to treatment and management of cardiovascular disease in South Africa and similar LMICs. Future investigations should evaluate the implementation and efficacy of interventions that recognize the role of material needs security in cardiovascular risk.

Abstract Present study assessed the growth of two plant species and ion uptake by them grown on different proportion of industrial solid waste and garden soil. The industrial waste having high concentration of chemicals were used with garden soil at different proportion i.e. 0% (T0), 5% (T1), 10% (T2), 15% (T3) and 20% (T4). Two species namely Conocarpus erectus (alien plant) and Dodonaea viscosa (indigenous) were used as test plants in pot study. Different parameters including growth, physiology, and anatomy of plants and concentration of cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+) in the plant shoot and root were measured at different time duration (initial, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th month). The key objective of the study was to use these plants to establish their plantations on the barren lands where industrial solid wastes were being disposed of. C. erectus showed better growth than D. viscosa, as well as more uptake of ions. A significant increase in plant growth was observed in fourth month in T1, where plant height reached 24.5% and 46% for C. erectus and D. viscosa, respectively. At harvest, in C. erectus, no significant difference in the fresh (65–78 g) and dry weight (24–30 g) of the shoot was observed across treatments compared to the control. In D. viscosa, at the time of harvest, the fresh and dry weights of the root and shoot showed a strong, significantly decreasing pattern across T1, T2, and T3, leading to the death of the plant at T3 and T4. Further, optimum ratio of waste soil to garden soil was found as 10:90 and 20:80 to establish the plantations of D. viscosa and C. erectus, respectively in areas where such solid waste from industries are disposed. Findings can be used for the restoration of such solid waste for the sustainable management of industrial areas and their associated ecosystems.

Abstract Background The study aimed to compare the self-perceived oral health status measured through a self-administered questionnaire with clinically determined oral health status measured by decayed-missing-filled teeth (DMFT) and community periodontal index of treatment need (CPITN) indices in university going females. In addition, access barriers to treatment related to oral healthcare were also determined. Methods A 3-month analytical cross-sectional study was designed for consenting university going females (aged 18–22 years) in Islamabad, Pakistan. The self-perceived oral health was recorded through a questionnaire requesting information regarding socio-demographics, self-perception of oral health, frequency of dental visits and barriers to seeking oral health. Seven independent examiners performed intraoral clinical examination and assessed the oral health status using globally standardized oral health assessment indices (DMFT and CPITN). Results A total of 400 students were included in the final sample. The study revealed a significant disparity between self-perceived oral health and clinical assessment. Although perceived oral health was considered “good” by 80.0% of the respondents, clinical examination revealed moderate DMFT scores (mean 2.95 ± 1.41) and periodontal disease requiring treatment in 89.5% of the individuals. The most common barriers in seeking dental care were lack of knowledge, dental phobia, affordability issue and false self-perception. Conclusion The present study demonstrated a notable discrepancy between self-perception of oral health and clinically assessed oral health. These results emphasize the importance of focused educational programs and community outreach programs, especially directed towards this demographic. Prioritizing such initiatives will help individuals to recognize their actual oral health condition thus encouraging positive oral health behaviors and outcomes.

Bovine colostrum is the initial milk produced after birth that contains high levels of immunoglobulins and antimicrobial peptides. This study examined the production of bovine colostrum powder using two methods including spray- and freeze-drying. Spray-drying involves quickly drying a liquid or slurry with hot gas, while freeze-drying is a low-temperature dehydration process that preserves the product by freezing it and at reduced pressure. The aim was to compare the effectiveness of spray-drying versus freeze-drying in producing colostrum powder, focusing on protein and defensive protein content. The freeze-drying sample contained higher levels of protein and defensive proteins (IgG and IgA) compared to spray-drying. The DPPH value was high in freeze-dried samples, while higher values of FRAP, TPC, and ABTS were found in spray-dried samples. Microbiological analysis indicated freeze drying generally yielding lower counts. Sensory evaluation suggested that spray-dried colostrum scored higher for flavor and aroma, while freeze-dried samples were preferred in appearance. Overall, the study underscored the distinction between spray=drying and freeze-drying in producing bovine colostrum powder, with implications for nutritional content and sensory attributes.

Mental problems are disorders whose incidence is increasing with the effect of the global crises experienced in the world today and which significantly reduce the functionality of the individual. Depression draws attention as the most common mental problem. An average of two-thirds of individuals diagnosed with depression cannot receive treatment due to treatment cost, transportation, stigma, lack of information, low perceived need for treatment, and barriers to seeking mental health help.Internet-based interventions can offer highly effective and advantageous suggestions to overcome the disadvantages created by these barriers. As an internet-based intervention, Just-in-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs) is an intervention design that aims to provide the right type and intensity of support at the right time by adapting to the changing internal and contextual situation of the individual. This intervention has emerged from the need to use mobile health in general, to address situations of vulnerability for adverse health outcomes, and to take advantage of rapid, unexpected, ecologically emerging situations of opportunity. In general, the mechanisms of JITAIs include 6 key elements: vulnerability/opportunity situation, distal outcome, proximal outcomes, decision points, intervention options, adaptation of variables and decision rules. Considering the potential rise of depression, especially in relation to new global events (e.g., pandemics and economic downturns), this application, which can be considered as a scalable, fully automated self-administered biopsychosocial transdiagnostic digital intervention, can provide widespread benefits. In this study, we focus on the working principles and advantages of JITAIs in general.

Huge losses of life and property occurred as a result of two independent catastrophic earthquakes on 6 February 2023 in the Eastern Anatolian Fault Zone, where no significant earthquake has occurred in approximately 500 years. The earthquakes, whose epicenters were in the Pazarcık and Elbistan districts of Kahramanmaraş province at 9 h intervals, had magnitudes of Mw = 7.7 and Mw = 7.6 and caused different levels of structural damage, especially in masonry-style structures in rural areas. In this study, the damage that occurred in masonry village schools, especially in rural areas, during these two earthquakes was evaluated in terms of the characteristics of the earthquake and within the scope of civil engineering, and the causes of the damage were discussed. The damage levels of the masonry schools examined were classified using the European Macroseismic Scale (EMS-98). Information about the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes was given and structural analyses were carried out for a widely used reference school building. The school building block was analytically modeled, and its seismic load-bearing capacities were predicted through pushover analysis in TREMURI software. The study also includes repair and strengthening recommendations for such structures.

BACKGROUND: Several universities switched back to face-to-face teaching in 2022 after 2 years of online classes during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. There is no data from these students/teachers on the challenges in postpandemic face-to-face teaching and learning. The current study’s aim was to identify the challenges of face-to-face teaching and learning postpandemic from the perspective of students and instructors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Undergraduate medical students (n = 210) registered in Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University and instructors (n = 72) filled out online questionnaires from November 2022 to March 2023 on teaching–learning challenges in the postpandemic period. The questionnaires asked students about their interest in education, scores, degree of shyness, how clear the voices of the instructors wearing face masks were, fear of COVID-19, preferred mode of teaching, and advantages/disadvantages of face-to-face teaching. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and percentages for qualitative variables; Chi-square test was applied to assess association between categorical variables. RESULTS: Students reported a decrease in their educational interest postpandemic (47.1%), diffidence in interaction (42.4%), blurred teachers’ voices because of the face masks (63.3%), and lack of teachers’ empathy (47.6%). There was a significant association between preclinical year students and a decrease in educational interest (P = 0.002), diffidence in class interactions (P = 0.001), and fear of contracting COVID-19 infection while interacting with teachers (P = 0.04). Instructors complained of a decrease in students’ interest in education (65.3%), especially the instructors of the clinical years (16.7% vs. 2.1%; P = 0.022). About 10% students reported taking leave from university on purpose due to fear of contracting COVID-19 infection; students and instructors both supported lecture recordings (98.6% and 63.9%, respectively). The students’ and instructors’ preferred platform for learning was “hybrid” (80.5% and 63.9%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Challenges faced by the students include decreased interest in learning, drop in scores, muffled voices because of the face masks, increased shyness, waste of time in commutes, lack of flexibility in schedules, increased workload, and fear of catching COVID-19 infection. There is strong support for hybrid/blended learning and recording lectures.

Objective: Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects many organs and systems, especially the lungs, lymph nodes and musculoskeletal system. Musculoskeletal system involvement patterns in sarcoidosis are not well defined and literature data are limited in terms of clinical features. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and demographic characteristics of sarcoidosis patients with musculoskeletal system involvement. Methods: One hundred and four patients with sarcoidosis who were followed up in our clinic between June 2020 and January 2024 were evaluated retrospectively. Forty-four sarcoidosis patients aged >18 years with objectively detected musculoskeletal system involvement were included in the study. The musculoskeletal system involvement patterns, clinical and laboratory findings, and demographic characteristics of the patients were analyzed. Results: Musculoskeletal involvement was found in 44 of the 104 sarcoidosis patients (42%). Of the 44 patients with musculoskeletal involvement, 37 (77.3%) were female, the mean age was 46.9±12.2 years, and the mean follow-up time was 14±11.8 months. The most common objective musculoskeletal pathology was chronic arthritis (17%), mostly in the form of chronic oligoarthritis. Wrist (50% vs. 3.8%, p=0.001) and metacarpophalangeal joint involvement (38.9% vs. 0, p=0.001) were significantly higher in patients with chronic arthritis than in patients with acute arthritis. While joint involvement starting as monoarthritis was an independent negative predictor for the development of chronic arthritis [odds ratio (OR): 0.046, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.003-0.815, p=0.036], the presence of obesity at baseline was a positive predictor for the development of chronic arthritis (OR: 11.968, 95% CI: 1.069-133.960, p=0.044). Conclusion: Sarcoidosis can present with a wide range of musculoskeletal manifestations. The most common musculoskeletal pathologies in sarcoidosis are acute and chronic arthritis. Sarcoidosis patients presenting with monoarthritis do not usually develop chronic arthritis. Patients with chronic sarcoid arthritis initially present more hand-joint involvement. Obesity is a risk factor for the development of chronic arthritis.

Objective: Edible seaweeds, valued for their rich content of bioactive compounds, have gained recognition in complementary medicine beyond their traditional role in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Notable examples include Ulva rigida C.Agardh and Grateloupia turuturu Yamada. These seaweeds offer a promising avenue for exploring their bioactive potential in medical and dietary contexts. Methods: Hexane extracts were prepared to elucidate the fatty acid composition of seaweeds via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analyses. Subsequently, investigations were conducted to assess the cytotoxicity on human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231), as well as examine the antimicrobial and anti-cholinesterase activities of extracts obtained using hexane, dichloromethane:methanol (CH2Cl2:MeOH, 1:1), methanol (MeOH), and water solvents. Results: The most abundant substances for the U. rigida and G. turuturu species were hexadecanoic acid, octadecenoic acid, and erucic acid compounds. The CH2Cl2:MeOH (1:1) extract of G. turuturu was found as the highest toxicity on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells (IC50: 28.7 µg/mL). G. turuturu extracts showed inhibition on E. coli and C. albicans. The hexane extracts of U. rigida and G. turuturu inhibited AChE enzyme in both algae species. Conclusion: The results highlight seaweeds’ bioactive potential for therapeutic and dietary products. Further research can explore medical and nutritional applications.

Abstract Objectives Acoustic immittancemetry measurement is made using a probe tone or click stimulus at a frequency of 226 Hz, which is included in the audiological test battery. This study aims to compare tympanometric peak pressure (TPP), static acoustic admittance (Ytm), equivalent external ear canal volume (Vea) and tympanometric width (TW) values measured with probe tone and click stimulus at 226 Hz frequency. Design Measurements were made with a probe tone and click stimulus at frequency of 226 Hz in 60 ears of 30 adult individuals with normal hearing between the ages of 18–26. In the measurements TPP, Ytm, Vea and TW values were determined for both ears. Results In two different tympanogram measurement results using 226 Hz click stimulus and 226 Hz probe tone were a statistically significant difference was found between Ytm, Vea and TW values in the left ear (p 0.05). Conclusıon The current findings show that the comment of right and left ear tympanogram results should be evaluated according to two different measurement results using 226 Hz click stimulus and 226 Hz probe tone.

Abstract Background The ambitious goal to eliminate new pediatric HIV infections by 2030 requires accelerated prevention strategies in high-risk settings such as South Africa. One approach could be pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with broadly neutralizing anti-HIV-1 monoclonal antibodies (bNAbs). The aim of our study is to define the optimal dose(s), the ideal combination(s) of bNAbs in terms of potency and breadth, and timing of subcutaneous (SC) administration(s) to prevent breast milk transmission of HIV. Methods Two bNAbs, CAP256V2LS and VRC07-523LS, will be assessed in a sequential and randomized phase I, single-site, single-blind, dose-finding trial. We aim to investigate the 28-day safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) profile of incrementally higher doses of these bNAbs in breastfeeding HIV-1 exposed born without HIV neonates alongside standard of care antiretroviral (ARV) medication to prevent (infants) or treat (mothers) HIV infection. The trial design includes 3 steps and 7 arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 6b) with 8 infants in each arm. The first step will evaluate the safety and PK profile of the bNAbs when given alone as a single subcutaneous (SC) administration at increasing mg/kg body weight doses within 96 h of birth: arms 1, 2 and 3 at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of CAP256V2LS, respectively; arms 4 and 5 at doses of 20 and 30 mg/kg of VRC07-523LS, respectively. Step two will evaluate the safety and PK profile of a combination of the two bNAbs administered SC at fixed doses within 96 h of birth. Step three will evaluate the safety and PK profile of the two bNAbs administered SC in combination at fixed doses, after 3 months. Arms 1 and 6 will follow sequential recruitment, whereas randomization will occur sequentially between arms (a) 2 & 4 and (b) 3 & 5. Before each randomization, a safety pause will allow review of safety data of the preceding arms. Discussion The results of this trial will guide further studies on bNAbs to prevent breast milk transmission of HIV. Protocol version Version 4.0 dated 15 March 2024. Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR): PACTR202205715278722, 21 April 2022; South African National Clinical Trial Registry (SANCTR): DOH-27–062022-6058.

Abstract Climate change, caused by both natural and human activities, poses significant threats to global health, including rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental disruptions. The One Health concept, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, is crucial in addressing these challenges. Climate change is linked to the emergence and resurgence of infectious diseases, resulting in substantial economic losses worldwide due to outbreaks, floods, and disrupted trade, among other factors. Therefore, it is crucial to adapt to this changing climate to safeguard One Health. By implementing a One Health approach, we can effectively address the consequences of climate change and make substantial contributions to health and food safety. This approach also holds the potential to mitigate economic losses, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Additionally, in the future, research interventions based on the One Health framework may offer sustainable solutions to combat climate change.

Abstract Arsenic (As) contamination is a major environmental pollutant that adversely affects plant physiological processes and can hinder nutrients and water availability. Such conditions ultimately resulted in stunted growth, low yield, and poor plant health. Using rhizobacteria and composted biochar (ECB) can effectively overcome this problem. Rhizobacteria have the potential to enhance plant growth by promoting nutrient uptake, producing growth hormones, and suppressing diseases. Composted biochar can enhance plant growth by improving aeration, water retention, and nutrient cycling. Its porous structure supports beneficial microorganisms, increasing nutrient uptake and resilience to stressors, ultimately boosting yields while sequestering carbon. Therefore, the current study was conducted to investigate the combined effect of previously isolated Bacillus faecalis (B. faecalis) and ECB as amendments on maize cultivated under different As levels (0, 300, 600 mg As/kg soil). Four treatments (control, 0.5% composted biochar (0.5ECB), B. faecalis, and 0.5ECB + B. faecalis) were applied in four replications following a completely randomized design. Results showed that the 0.5ECB + B. faecalis treatment led to a significant rise in maize plant height (~ 99%), shoot length (~ 55%), root length (~ 82%), shoot fresh (~ 87%), and shoot dry weight (~ 96%), root fresh (~ 97%), and dry weight (~ 91%) over the control under 600As stress. There was a notable increase in maize chlorophyll a (~ 99%), chlorophyll b (~ 81%), total chlorophyll (~ 94%), and shoot N, P, and K concentration compared to control under As stress, also showing the potential of 0.5ECB + B. faecalis treatment. Consequently, the findings suggest that applying 0.5ECB + B. faecalis is a strategy for alleviating As stress in maize plants.

Abstract Background One million individuals in the USA die from acute myocardial infarction (MI), which currently affects 3 million people globally. The available data about the early and late outcomes of both biodegradable polymer drug-eluting stents (BP-DES) and durable polymer drug-eluting stents exhibit inconsistency. We performed a meta-analysis comparing the safety and efficacy of BP-DES with DP-DES. Methods PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Cochrane, Ovid Medline, and Clinical Trials.gov databases were used to find out studies comparing BP-DES to DP-DES. All the analyses used the random-effects model. Results A total of 18 studies were incorporated in this meta-analysis that involved 28,874 patients, out of which 11,997 received the BP Stent, and the rest of 16,578 received the DP stent. Thorough analyses revealed that the risk of all-cause death was significantly higher in the BP-DES group (5.4% vs 2.7%) (RR 1.22, p 0.02) for two years or less than two-year follow-up. For studies with more than two years of follow-up, all-cause death was 9.07% (599/6603) in BP-DES and 9.47% (531/5602) in the DP-DES group but failed to achieve statistically significant levels (RR 0.97, p 0.58). Conclusions The study revealed no clinically significant (P value was > 0.05) differences in all-cause death, cardiac death, target lesion revascularization (TLR), late stent thrombosis, device-oriented composite endpoint/target lesion failure (DOCE/TLF), myocardial infarction (MI), target vessel MI, target vessel revascularization (TVR), target vessel infarction (TVI) between BP-DES and DP-DES for more than two years of follow-up. Additionally, all-cause death was only outcomes which found to have a statistically significant difference for less than two years of follow-up, while remaining were statistically non-significant.

This research aimed to evaluate the performance of dyes extracted from Acacia Nilotica bark on Tencel fabric dyeing. The extraction of dye was optimized by extracting dyes with different liquor ratios. The dyeing parameters were optimized under pH values from 5 to 14. The effect of different mordants was also observed to see the shades this dye can produce on Tencel fabric. The optimum dye extraction conditions for material-to-liquor ratio were found to be 1:10. The optimum pH was found to be 12. The color yield and fastness characteristics of the dyed materials were measured to assess them. It was determined that the addition of mordants affected the color values; as a result, distinct fashion hues were produced from the same dye extract by employing various mordants. This basic study of dyeing and extracting natural dye showed that this dye has the potential to be used for cellulosic fibers.

Abstract This study investigates the influence of small control cylinders on the fluid dynamics around a square cylinder using the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). Varying the gaps (L) between the main and control cylinders from 0 to 6, four distinct flow regimes are identified: the solo body regime (SBR), shear layer reattachment (SLR), suppressed fully developed flow (SFDF), and intermittent shedding (IS). The presence of control cylinders results in significant reductions in flow-induced forces, with drag coefficient (CD) and root mean square values of drag and lift coefficients (CD rms and CL rms ) decreasing by approximately 31%, 90%, and 81%, respectively. The SFDF flow regime exhibits the lowest fluid forces compared to other regimes. The effects of tiny control cylinders on the fluid flow characteristics of a square cylinder are examined using the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) in this research work. The gaps (L) between the main and control cylinders are varied in the range from 0 to 6. The size of each control cylinder is equal to one-fifth of the primary cylinder. According to the findings, there are four distinct flow regimes as the gap spacing varies: solo body regime (SBR), shear layer reattachment (SLR), suppressed fully developed flow (SFDF), and intermittent shedding (IS) for gap spacing ranges 0 ≤ L ≤ 0.2, 0.3 ≤ L ≤ 0.9, 1 ≤ L ≤ 3, and 3.2 ≤ L ≤ 6, respectively. Additionally, it has been noted that the amplitude of variable lift force is reduced when the gap separation between the main and control cylinders is increased. When compared to solo cylinder values, it is found that the presence of small control cylinders in the flow field results in a considerable reduction of flow-induced forces. The SFDF flow regime was determined to have the lowest fluid forces compared to the other flow regimes studied. Our findings highlight the efficacy of small control cylinders in mitigating flow-induced forces and controlling flow characteristics. The LBM proves to be a valuable computational technique for such fluid flow problems.

Abstract Microalgae technology is a viable solution for environmental conservation (carbon capture and wastewater treatment) and energy production. However, the nutrient cost, slow-kinetics, and low biosorption capacity of microalgae hindered its application. To overcome them, algal-biochar (BC) can be integrated with microalgae to treat textile wastewater (TWW) due to its low cost, its ability to rapidly adsorb pollutants, and its ability to serve as a nutrient source for microalgal-growth to capture CO2 and biodiesel production. Chlorella vulgaris (CV) and algal-BC were combined in this work to assess microalgal growth, carbon capture, TWW bioremediation, and biodiesel production. Results showed the highest optical density (3.70 ± 0.07 OD680), biomass productivity (42.31 ± 0.50 mg L−1 d−1), and dry weight biomass production (255.11 ± 6.01 mg L−1) in an integrated system of CV-BC-TWW by capturing atmospheric CO2 (77.57 ± 2.52 mg L−1 d−1). More than 99% bioremediation (removal of MB-pollutant, COD, nitrates, and phosphates) of TWW was achieved in CV-BC-TWW system due to biosorption and biodegradation processes. The addition of algal-BC and CV microalgae to TWW not only enhanced the algal growth but also increased the bioremediation of TWW and biodiesel content. The highest fatty acid methylesters (biodiesel) were also produced, up to 76.79 ± 2.01 mg g−1 from CV-BC-TWW cultivated-biomass. Biodiesel’s oxidative stability and low-temperature characteristics are enhanced by the presence of palmitoleic (C16:1) and linolenic (C18:3) acids. Hence, this study revealed that the integration of algal-biochar, as a biosorbent and source of nutrients, with living-microalgae offers an efficient, economical, and sustainable approach for microalgae growth, CO2 fixation, TWW treatment, and biodiesel production. Graphical Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of adding postbiotics produced from two species of lactic acid bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus (Lap) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (Lpp), to broiler chicken diets on their productivity, gastrointestinal microbiota count, and nutrient digestibility. Using a completely randomized design, 315 one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross- 308) were randomly divided into seven groups and three replications, with fifteen unsexed chicks per replicate. The basal diet was administered without supplements (negative control) or supplemented with Tetracycline (TET) at 0.02% (positive control). The other five groups: T1, T2 (basal diet supplemented with Lap 0.25%, and Lap 0.50% respectively); T3, T4 (basal diet supplemented with Lpp 0.25%, and Lpp 0.50% respectively); T5, (basal diet supplemented with 0.25% Lap + 0.25% Lpp).Results indicated that feeding broiler chickens with postbiotics supplements (excluding T1) and a positive control (TET) resulted in significant improvements (P≤0.05) in body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, production index, and economic efficiency compared to the negative control group. Also postbiotics supplements showed the highest level (P≤0.05) Lactobacilli count of jejunum, and the lowest level of E. coli bacteria decreased significantly (P≤0.05) in all groups compared to the negative control. Additionally, postbiotics (excluding T1) and TET treatments improved (P≤0.05) digestibility of dry matter, protein, fat, protein efficiency ratio and passage rate compared to the negative control group. The results suggest that postbiotics supplements can enhance growth performance, nutrient digestibility, protein efficiency, passage rate, and intestinal microbiota count of broiler chickens.

Pronunciation instruction studies have taken considerable attention in the field of foreign language teaching and research in recent years. For this systematic review, only the intervention studies indexed in SSCI were included. A literature search up to April 2024 was conducted using the Web of Science and relevant meta-analytic studies. Fifty-five interventions met the eligibility criteria based on the PRISMA 2020. This review is twofold: to examine the effects of English L2 pronunciation instruction and to identify the methodological status of these studies in terms of treatment formulation, design, sampling type/size, treatment duration, and outcome measures. Results showed that pronunciation instruction treatments positively affected L2 users’ pronunciation performance. Regarding research methodology, the studies employed mostly pre- and post-tests, with at least one experimental group having relatively few delayed tests. The most common participant group was undergraduate students with pre-intermediate and intermediate levels. The participants' performance tended to be measured through technological tools in recent years. The suprasegmental features of speech that occurred with greater frequency compared to the mere segmental features. These studies also tended to include native speakers’ ratings in the assessment phase of the instruction. The findings of this study are assumed to provide insights and recommendations for future research studies in L2 pronunciation.

It is important to determine the attitudes of employees towards occupational accidents and diseases and whether these events are perceived as inevitable or out of control. Inaccurate interpretation of the perception of fatalism towards occupational accidents and diseases may lead to more occupational accidents and diseases. The use of scales to determine the perception of fatalism in the context of occupational accidents and diseases allows for a quantitative assessment of these issues. This approach makes it possible to objectively measure and analyze the perception of fatalism, thus paving the way for a more in-depth examination of related phenomena. This study is a scale development study to determine the level of fatalism towards occupational accidents and diseases. This methodological study was conducted between October 2021 and June 2023. The scale was shaped by taking expert opinions for the scale items prepared by making use of the literature, pre-applied and pilot applied with 75 people; Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis were conducted with 242 people; and all evaluated with validity and reliability analyzes. In the exploratory factor analysis for the developed scale of fatalism towards occupational accidents and diseases, it was seen that the scale items were gathered under 4 factors and the explanatory coefficient was 53.68%. In order to measure the applicability of exploratory factor analysis for the scale, KMO value was 0.854 and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity value was χ2=1996.527; df=153, p

Aim: This study aims to determine the beliefs and attitudes of Faculty of Theology students towards mental illnesses. It is extremely important to determine the beliefs and attitudes of the Theology Faculty students since they will be future religious officials, teachers of religious culture and ethics, spiritual advisors and guides, towards mental illnesses. The evaluation of the findings obtained may contribute to the implementation of educational studies on this subject, to change the negative beliefs and attitudes in society by informing the public correctly, and to apply primarily medical practices instead of traditional methods. Methods: The research sample consisted of 306 students studying at Muş Alparslan University, Faculty of Islamic Sciences. Before the research, ethics committee approval was received from Muş Alparslan University Scientific Research and Publication Ethics Committee (date: 08.11.2023, number: 73). The data of the study were collected from the "Personal Information Form", "Beliefs towards Mental Illness Scale (BMI)"; and “Scale for Community Attitudes towards Individuals with Mental Problems (CAMI)”. SPSS 26 Program was used to analyze the data. According to the Shapiro Wilk test results, Independent group t-test and Mann Whitney U test were used for paired groups; ANOVA, Welch and Kruskal Wallis tests were used for variables with more than two groups. The relationships between the scales and their subscales were measured by correlation and regression analysis. Results Faculty of Theology students' beliefs and attitudes towards mental illnesses vary according to sociodemographic characteristics. It was observed that beliefs and attitudes towards mental illnesses were more pronounced in participants who were male, older, married, had a higher education level, had a poor socioeconomic status, and had acquaintances with mental illness. The level of closeness to the mentally ill acquaintance also affects the beliefs and attitudes. The participants whose siblings had a mental illness held more beliefs of helplessness, deterioration in interpersonal relationships and shame, and adopted the community mental health ideology and goodwill attitudes more than relatives or any other acquaintance. The level of religious knowledge was not effective on their beliefs and attitudes. In addition, it was determined that beliefs and attitudes towards mental illnesses were related to each other. The sub-dimension of shame was significant in predicting positive attitudes. Conclusion: Faculty of Theology students widely believe that they are helpless about mental illnesses and that their relationships with their environment will deteriorate, and they consider people with mental problems to be more dangerous than average. The level of belief in the shame dimension is below average. When the general averages are evaluated, a significant majority of the participants have negative beliefs about mental illness. When their attitudes are examined, their tendency to fear (exclusion) is clearly high. Their attitudes and goodwill scores towards the treatment of mentally ill people in society are below average. In this context, it is concluded that the general attitudes of the Faculty of Theology students are relatively negative. Educating Faculty of Theology students, who will take active roles in the public sphere in the future, about mental illnesses can contribute to the positive change of negative beliefs and attitudes arising from social teachings.

Background: Language is an excellent and convenient means of communication. Mean Length of Utterance (MLU) measures linguistic productivity in children. Objectives: to find the mean length of utterance in words and lexical diversity among children aged 3-3.11 years typically developing Urdu-speaking. Methods: The data of n=100 children of both genders of age between (3 to 3.11 years) who performed on blank levels 1 and 2 was collected through a cross-sectional survey. The data was collected from daycare centers and schools in Rawalpindi and Islamabad from November 2022 to June 2023. MLU calculation procedure was carried out through activities from ICW and Blank Level. For the calculation of MLU, the formula was used. Results: The Mean Length of Utterance at word level (MLUw)of children aged between 3 to 3.11 years was 3.43. In lexical diversity (LD) children have used Nouns (NN) most abundantly as 55% of Verbs (VB) with 35% Tense Auxiliaries (TA)30%. Conclusion: It is found that children's MLUw of 3.43 between the ages of 3 and 4 indicates an increase in speech complexity. Nouns, verbs, and tense auxiliaries have been recognized as the main elements via lexical analysis.

Background: The group climate within residential youth care institutions is considered a transactional process, both within a group of youth from various cultural backgrounds and between them and their group workers. The ongoing interaction between the cultural characteristics of these girls may influence the quality of the group climate. This study aimed to provide an in-depth account of the living group climate experiences and perceptions of Dutch girls with a Moroccan cultural background in Dutch residential groups. Method: Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed to explore the girls’ group climate experiences. Result: Three major themes emerged, namely (a) level of involvement of Moroccan girls in their living group, (b) perceptions of Moroccan girls’ sense of belonging in a living group, and (c) cultural and religious equality or disparity results in two interaction patterns. The findings revealed that equality or disparity in language, culture, and religion affect Moroccan girls’ experiences and perceptions of the living group climate. A crucial finding was that cultural and religious disparity leads to interaction patterns wherein the girls pre-emptively exclude themselves from receiving support from native group workers. Conclusion: Professionals must be aware of the cultural and religious dynamics, including the interplay and impact of cultural and religious equality and disparity, influencing Moroccan girls’ group climate experiences.

ÖZ:Sosyal bilimler ekseninde, bilimsel yöntemler kullanarak ölçme aracı geliştirmenin önemi her geçen gün daha fazla artmaktadır. Çünkü ancak geçerli, güvenilir ve kullanılabilir ölçme ve değerlendirme tekniklerinin kullanılmasıyla doğru bilgiye ulaşmak mümkün hale gelmektedir. Ölçek geliştirme araştırması ve geliştirilmiş ölçekle detaylı bilgi elde etmeyi amaçlayan saha uygulama çalışmasında doğru bilgiye ulaşmanın yolu, mümkün olduğunca hata payı azaltılmış verilerin toplanmasından geçmektedir. Veri toplamak için gerekli olan araçlardan biri de ölçeklerdir. Sosyal bilimler alanında araştırmacılar, bireylerin belli olaylar karşısındaki kanaat, eğilim ve beklentilerini ölçmek ve karşılaştırmak amacıyla ölçeklerden yararlanırlar. Bunun için de araştırmacılar tarafından bir ölçek geliştirilebilir ya da var olan bir ölçek uyarlanabilir. Ölçek geliştirme, ölçülmesi düşünülen düşünce, tutum ve davranışları ortaya çıkaracak maddeleri geliştirme sürecidir ve geliştirilmesi, uyarlanması ve çalışır olması sürecinde dikkat edilmesi gereken birtakım temel aşamalar vardır. Zira bu aşamalar göz önünde bulundurulmadan hazırlanan bir ölçeğin geçerliği ve güvenirliği düşük olur. Bu odak noktasından yola çıkan çalışma, geçerli, güvenilir ve kullanılabilir bir ölçme aracının geliştirilme süreçlerini ayrıntılı olarak ortaya koymayı hedeflemektedir. Çalışma kapsamında bir ölçek geliştirilirken dikkat edilmesi gereken aşamalar, örneklem seçimi ve uygulamasının nasıl yürütüleceği, ölçek geliştirmede geçerlik ve güvenirlik sürecinin nasıl işlediği ele alınmaktadır. Çalışmanın, ölçek geliştirmede dikkat edilmesi gereken aşamalar hakkında bilgi vererek, nitelikli ve özgün ölçek geliştirme çalışmalarının artmasına katkı sağlayacağı, bu yönde çalışma yapacak araştırmacılara nitelikli bir rehber oluşturacağı ve yöntemsel bir yol haritası sunacağı düşünülmektedir. ABSTRACT:The topic of developing measuring instruments by using scientific methods is becoming increasingly important in the field of social science because accurate information can only be obtained by using valid, reliable, and useable measurement and assessment techniques developed by using scientific methods. The way to obtain accurate information in scale development research and field application studies that aim to acquire detailed information using advanced scales is to gather data that is error-free or with a margin of error that has been reduced as much as possible. Scale development is the process of developing items by revealing the thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors that are intended to be measured. Several fundamental stages need to be considered to develop a robust scale, adapt it, and make it work, particularly when the topic is social science. With this important point in mind, this study aims to reveal in detail the stages of developing valid, reliable, and useable measuring instrument. The study will discuss the stages that need to be considered when developing a scale, how sampling and implementation are conducted, and how the validity and reliability process works when developing a scale. It is thought that the study will help increase studies on the development of qualified and unique scales and constitute a competent guide for researchers who are going to make such studies and provide a methodological roadmap by providing information about the stages that need to be considered when developing scale.

The main goal of this paper is to define the concept of metallic deformation through a relation between the metallic structure and paracontact structure on an almost paracontact para-Norden manifold. A Riemannian connection is obtained on a metallically deformed para-Sasaki-like para-Norden manifold. A $ \varphi $-connection is obtained via the Riemannian connection on a metallically deformed para-Sasaki-like para-Norden manifold. The curvature tensors, Ricci tensors, scalar curvatures, and $ \ast $-scalar curvatures are investigated with respect to the Riemannian connection and the $ \varphi $-connection. Finally, an example is given of a metallically deformed $ 3 $-dimensional para-Sasaki-like para-Norden manifold.

Abstract Background The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic catalysed a monumental shift in the field of continuing professional development (CPD). Prior to this, the majority of CPD group-learning activities were offered in-person. However, the pandemic forced the field to quickly pivot towards more novel methods of learning and teaching in view of social distancing regulations. The purpose of this study was to obtain the perspectives of CPD leaders on the impact of the pandemic to elucidate trends, innovations, and potential future directions in the field. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted between April-September 2022 with 23 CPD leaders from Canada and the USA. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and de-identified. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data and generate themes. Results Participants characterised COVID-19 as compelling widespread change in the field of CPD. From the interviews, researchers generated six themes pertaining to the impact of the pandemic on CPD: (1) necessity is the mother of innovation, (2) the paradox of flexibility and accessibility, (3) we’re not going to unring the bell, (4) reimagining design and delivery, (5) creating an evaluative culture, and (6) a lifeline in times of turmoil. Conclusion This qualitative study discusses the impact of the pandemic on the field of CPD and leaders’ vision for the future. Despite innumerable challenges, the pandemic created opportunities to reform design and delivery. Our findings indicate a necessity to maintain an innovative culture to best support learners, to improve the healthcare system, and to prepare for future emergencies.

Abstract Aims The conditions of hypoxia are suggested to induce permanent atrial fibrillation (AF). The regulation of COX4I2 and COX4I1 depends on oxygen availability in tissues. A role of COX4I2 in the myocardium of AF patients is supposed for pathogenesis of AF and subsequent alterations in the electron transfer chain (ETC) under hypoxia. Methods and results In vitro, influence of hypoxia on HeLa 53 cells was studied and elevated parts of COX 4I2 were confirmed. Myocardial biopsies were taken ex vivo from the patients' Right Atria with SR (n = 31) and AF (n = 11), respectively. RT‐ PCR for mRNA expresson, mitochondrial respiration by polarography and the protein content of cytochrome c oxidase (CytOx) subunit 4I1 and CytOx subunit 4I2 by ELISA were studied. Clinical data were correlated to the findings of gene expressions in parallel. Patients with permanent AF had a change in isoform 4I2/4I1 expression along with a decrease of isoform COX 4I1 expression. The 4I2/4I1 ratio of mRNA expression was increased from 0.630 to 1.058 in comparison. However, the protein content of CytOx subunit 4 was much lower in the AF group, whereas the respiration/units enzyme activity in both groups remained the same. Conclusions This study describes a possible molecular correlate for the development of AF. Due to the known functional significance of COX 4I2, mitochondrial dysfunction can be assumed as a part of the pathogenesis of AF.

Software-based technical indicators have been widely used for the stock market forecasting, aiming to predict market direction. Even though many algorithms for the software based technical indicators are presented, there are almost no hardware implementations reported in the literature. In this paper, the hardware implementation is presented for three commonly used technical indicators: Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD), Relative Strength Index (RSI), and Aroon. Latency evaluation is conducted for Bitcoin and Ethereum within a single-day timeframe, utilizing the Xilinx Zynq-7000 programmable SoC XC7Z020-CLG484-1 platform.Additionally, various hardware/software (HW/SW) partitioning strategies are explored to leverage the flexibility of software alongside the performance advantages of hardware via the Zynq SoC platform. The results show that the best performing technical indicator is MACD with a speedup of 30 times over its software only counterpart. Furthermore, a hybrid design integrating multiple technical indicators is proposed, pairing MACD with RSI due to their competitive throughput values, differing by only 0.38 microseconds. This hybrid approach capitalizes on the parallel processing capabilities of hardware, enabling multiple systems to operate simultaneously.

A one-pot synthesis approach was employed to create a composite nanorod structure (Mn2O3–MnO2–poly(m-methylaniline) or Mn2O3–MnO2–PmMA) on a polypyrrole (Ppy) film. Optoelectronic and solar cell thin film devices were constructed using n- and p-type layers of Mn2O3–MnO2–PmMA and Ppy, respectively. The optical characteristics of the n-layer, coupled with the morphological behavior of its nanorods, enhance optical absorbance efficiency, reducing the bandgap value to 2.48 eV. The behavior of the optoelectronic device is chiefly determined by the significantly higher current density (J ph) value of 0.017 mA/cm2 compared to the dark current density (J o) value of 0.002 mA/cm2. Additionally, the linear dynamic range is 85 dB, and the noise ratio is 12%. The optimized values for the photosensitivity (R) and detectivity (D) at 340 nm are 0.22 mA W−1 and 0.47 × 10⁸ Jones, respectively. Even at 540 nm, these values decrease to 0.08 and 0.2 × 10⁸ Jones, respectively. For solar cell behavior, the short-circuit current (J SC) and open-circuit voltage (V OC) at 540 nm are determined, yielding values of 0.001 mA/cm2 and 0.98 V, respectively. The outstanding performance of this optoelectronic device, coupled with its solar cell behavior, positions the thin film material for a dual role in various industrial applications.

Abstract The objective of this study is to generalize the roughness of a fuzzy set-in three-dimensional structure by introducing ternary multiplication. Many results and theorems of rough fuzzy ideals have been extended from semigroup and semiring, to ternary semiring by introducing the definition of a rough fuzzy subset of ternary semiring. By using the concept of set-valued homomorphism and strong set-valued homomorphism, it is proved generalized lower and upper approximations of $$(\in , \in \vee q)$$ ( ∈ , ∈ ∨ q ) -fuzzy ideals (semiprime and prime ideals) of ternary semirings are $$(\in ,\in \vee q)$$ ( ∈ , ∈ ∨ q ) -fuzzy ideals (semiprime and prime ideals) respectively.

Abstract Background Migraine is a disease characterized by headache attacks. The disease is multifactorial in etiology and genetic and environmental factors play role in pathogenesis. Migraine can also be accompanied by psychiatric disorders like neurotism and obsessive compulsive disorder. Stress, hormonal changes and certain food intake can trigger attacks in migraine. Previous studies showed that eating attitudes and disorders are prevalant in patients with migraine. Eating disorders are psychiatric disorders related to abnormal eating habits. Both migraine and eating disorders are common in young women and personality profiles of these patient groups are also similar. A possible relationship which shows that migraine and eating habits are related can lead to a better understanding of disease pathogenesis and subsequently new therapeutic options on both entities. Association of migraine in relation to severity, depression and anxiety and eating habits and disorders were aimed to be investigated in this study. Methods The study was designed as a prospective, multi-center, case control study. Twenty-one centers from Turkey was involved in the study. The gathered data was collected and evaluated at a single designated center. From a pool of 1200 migraine patients and 958 healthy control group, two groups as patient group and study group was created with PS matching method in relation to age, body-mass index, marital status and employment status. Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were applied to both study groups. The data gathered was compared between two groups. Results EAT-26 scores and the requirement for referral to a psychiatrist due to symptoms related to eating disorder were both statistically significantly higher in patient group compared to control group (p = 0.034 and p = 0.0001 respectively). Patients with migraine had higher scores in both BDI and BAI compared to control group (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001 respectively). Severity of pain or frequency of attacks were not found to be related to eating attitudes (r:0.09, p = 0.055). Conclusions Migraine patients were found to have higher EAT-26, BDI and BAI scores along with a higher rate of referral to a psychiatrist due to symptoms. Results of the study showed that eating habits are altered in migraine patients with higher risk of eating disorders. Depression and anxiety are also found to be common amongst migraine patients.

Abstract Over half of the world’s population resides in urban areas. We anticipate that this pattern will become more evident, notably in South Africa. Therefore, research on urban spirals, both past and projected, is necessary for efficient urban land use planning and management. This study aims to assess the spatio-temporal urban sprawl dynamics from 2003 to 2033 in Mbombela, South Africa. We employed robust approaches such as machine learning, the cellular automata-Markov chain, and the Shannon entropy model to look at how urban sprawl changes over time using both the Landsat 4–5 Thematic Mapper and the 8 Operational Land Imagers. We conducted this study to bridge the gaps in existing research, which primarily focuses on past and current urban growth trends rather than future trends. The findings indicated that the coverage of built-up areas and vegetation has expanded by 1.98 km2 and 13.23 km2 between the years 2003 and 2023. On the other hand, the amount of land continues to decrease by -12.56 km2 and − 2.65 km2 annually, respectively. We anticipate an increase in the built-up area and vegetation to a total of 7.60 km2 and 0.57 km2, respectively, by the year 2033. We anticipate a total annual decline of -7.78 km2 and − 0.39 km2 in water bodies and open land coverage, respectively. This work has the potential to assist planners and policymakers in improving sustainable urban land-use planning.

Abstract Our current study reports the successful synthesis of thiolated chitosan-based nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery of 5-Fluorouracil. This process was achieved through the ionic gelation technique, aiming to improve the efficacy of the chemotherapeutic moiety by modifying the surface of the nanoparticles (NPs) with a ligand. We coated these NPs with hyaluronic acid (HA) to actively target the CD44 receptor, which is frequently overexpressed in various solid malignancies, including breast cancer. XRD, FTIR, SEM, and TEM were used for the physicochemical analysis of the NPs. These 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) loaded NPs were evaluated on MDA-MB-231 (a triple-negative breast cell line) and MCF-10A (normal epithelial breast cells) to determine their in vitro efficacy. The developed 5-FU-loaded NPs exhibited a particle size within a favorable range (