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Quality by design (QbD) is a systematic method for the development of product and process design to ensure quality and efficacy. In the fragrance and flavour industry, the design of delivery systems plays a crucial role in the overall product quality and consumer acceptance. This article analyses the current state‐of‐the‐art and future explorations from QbD perspective for designing appropriate delivery systems for flavour and fragrance applications. The QbD approach for delivery system design involves classifying critical quality attributes of the product and process, defining the critical process parameters and developing a design space to ensure product quality within the specified range. In addition, risk assessment and mitigation strategies are also a component of the QbD techniques, which ensure the robustness of the delivery system. Various delivery systems such as microencapsulation, nanoencapsulation, solid lipid nanoparticles and liposomes have been explored in the flavour and fragrance industry. These delivery systems provide controlled release, protection, and enhanced stability of the active ingredients. However, challenges such as scale‐up, reproducibility, and cost‐effectiveness need to be addressed to ensure their commercial viability. In conclusion, the QbD outlook provides a comprehensive framework for the design of carrier system for fragrance and flavour applications. The incorporation of risk assessment and mitigation strategies ensures the robustness of the delivery system, and the future exploration of advanced technologies may further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the QbD approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizations attempt to keep pace with the dynamic, ever-changing environment through technology up-gradation, human resource restructuring, diversification of product or service lines, and other similar actions. In most cases, these actions have taken the form of organizational downsizing, leading to the loss of jobs. The primary purpose of this study is to propose an approach that organizations may adopt against the cascading impact of layoffs on separated employees (victims), associates and co-workers (survivors). Online platforms were used for the collection of data. A total of 864 statements were analysed. Sentiment analysis was conducted using the SEMRUSH software. Miles and Huberman's (1994, Qualitative data analysis: An expanded sourcebook) method was used to categorize the data obtained into meaningful categories to provide results that would support the research objectives. The analysis shows a considerable cascading psychological impact on the human resource ecosystem. This article puts forward the causal model, capturing the interplay of the effects of the stakeholders on one another and their social well-being. Further, the article proposes that the downsizing cycle be constituted such that it minimizes the impact of layoffs. Extant research on job loss has mostly considered one or two stakeholders at a time. We have attempted a multi-stakeholder approach. The study also suggests changes in the human resource (HR) cycle that organizations must examine to mitigate the adverse effects of layoffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the few synthetic resins from petroleum-based sources that are biodegradable and can reduce the environmental pollution is polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). PVA film is non-toxic, transparent, and biocompatible in line with green ecologically friendly requirements. It is completely biodegradable and possesses good mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and gas barrier. PVA's hydroxyl groups, however, decrease its mechanical and thermal properties and make it water-soluble, which limits its use. However, it is possible to control the water solubility or absorption by partially cross-linking the polymer chains. This work aims to enhance the mechanical properties while making an insoluble film through cross-linking with oxalic acid (OA). In the present investigation, PVA film was cross-linked with OA (with variable weight percentage (wt%) of OA) to limit its ability to absorb moisture. Tensile testing was utilized to evaluate the mechanical properties of the films, revealing their ultimate tensile strength, % elongation, and Young's modulus. With increase in wt% of OA, % elongation of PVA-based films decreases, whereas maximum tensile strength was observed at 10 wt% of OA configuration. In comparison to neat PVA, the differential thermo-gravimetric analysis peak migrated towards the higher temperature side with an increase in the OA concentration. The peak value of tan δ curve also increased and shifted towards higher temperature side as the OA concentration increased. This concludes that prepared films have high damping coefficient and can absorb impact load. Finally, the films' creep-recovery behaviour was also examined in detail. To represent the potential application of these films as packaging materials, anti-microbial tests were also conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic topology and power-controlled lightweight mobile devices usually affect the performance of wireless ad hoc networks and have always been a major focus of research. Data transmission between a source-destination pair is governed by different types of routing protocols like proactive, reactive, hybrid, geographical, etc. Reactive routing techniques are highly preferred due to on-demand source-based routing with limited space requirements. To get a stable route, the routing process should consider the link availability between the communicating nodes. If any two nodes along the route become unreachable, the communication could be interrupted. This could cause the receiver to lose data and experience longer delays. In this paper, we suggest a way to improve the existing DSR protocol. The focus is on choosing a stable route with less control overhead. During the route request phase, every participating node calculates its link availability time (LAT) for each adjacent link based on the current position of the neighbor and receiving signal strength. Links with lesser LATs than a threshold are not considered for route setup hence the flooding of control packets is reduced. Simulation has been performed over the basic DSR and proposed improvements over DSR in terms of control overhead, successful data transmission rate, and the number of route errors generated in the network. The findings show that previous knowledge of link availability during the routing phase aids in the discovery of more stable routes with lower control overhead, thereby promoting reliable data delivery and improving the overall network performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the intricate nexus between low‐income countries, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the multifaceted phenomenon of unemployment. Amid the global endeavour to achieve SDGs, these marginalised nations assume a pivotal role, confronting distinctive challenges and opportunities. We employ meticulous analysis and structural equation modelling techniques to unveil a complex network of relationships among diverse socio‐economic indicators and unemployment across 27 low‐income countries, encompassing nations such as Afghanistan, Zambia, and others. Our empirical findings underscore the paramount importance of economic advancement, as epitomised by GDP per capita, in fostering employment prospects. Concurrently, environmental endeavours, epitomised by CO2 emissions, underscore the potential of green employment in mitigating unemployment. Investments in education and healthcare, as indicated by primary completion rates and life expectancy, emerge as pivotal determinants of employability. Moreover, access to clean energy sources and mobile cellular subscriptions indirectly influence unemployment rates, underscoring the multifaceted nature of the issue. Furthermore, our analysis reveals the intricate interplay between economic progress and social well‐being. These insights give policymakers invaluable direction, stressing the significance of tailored strategies that harness education, healthcare, technology, and environmental initiatives to alleviate unemployment, cultivate inclusive growth, and advance the overarching aspirations of sustainable development in low‐income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An educational project in medical undergraduate otorhinolaryngology teaching-learningmethodology was designed with the aimof objectively studying the impact of self-directed learning on the topic of tracheostomy, since the latter has been included by the National Medical Commission as a core-competence for students. 150 third-year medical undergraduates participated in the study. They were divided into two groups, namely A and B. Group A was guided to undertake self-directed learning on tracheostomy while Group B underwent a lecture on the sametopic. Thereafter, both the groups responded to a validated feedback performa. Both the groups were assessed before and after the teaching-learning sessions by way of validated multiple-choice questions. Seventy-eight percent of participants from Group A agreed with the fact that they had acquired adequate knowledge on tracheostomy following the self-directed learning session as compared to 93.3% of those in Group B. Lacunae in the knowledge at the end of the teaching sessions were found to be more (27.4%) in Group B as compared to Group A (22%). The results obtained through the preand post-tests found Group A students to be performing significantly better than those in Group B, indicating that self-directed learning had been a more effective method for teaching the skills of tracheostomy as compared to the conventional lecture involving a large group. Self-directed learning, when used alone for a topic like tracheostomy, is more effective than a lecture in terms of reduced lacunae in knowledge and students performance in examinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of hematophagy involves a series of adaptations that allow blood-feeding insects to access and consume blood efficiently while managing and circumventing the host's hemostatic and immune responses. Mosquito, and other insects, utilize salivary proteins to regulate these responses at the bite site during and after blood feeding. We investigated the function of Anopheles gambiae salivary apyrase (AgApyrase) in regulating hemostasis in the mosquito blood meal and in Plasmodium transmission. Our results demonstrate that salivary apyrase, a known inhibitor of platelet aggregation, interacts with and activates tissue plasminogen activator, facilitating the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, a human protease that degrades fibrin and facilitates Plasmodium transmission. We show that mosquitoes ingest a substantial amount of apyrase during blood feeding, which reduces coagulation in the blood meal by enhancing fibrin degradation and inhibiting platelet aggregation. AgApyrase significantly enhanced Plasmodium infection in the mosquito midgut, whereas AgApyrase immunization inhibited Plasmodium mosquito infection and sporozoite transmission. This study highlights a pivotal role for mosquito salivary apyrase for regulation of hemostasis in the mosquito blood meal and for Plasmodium transmission to mosquitoes and to the mammalian host, underscoring the potential for strategies to prevent malaria transmission. Here, Pala et al. show that mosquito salivary apyrase regulates hemostasis in the mosquito blood meal, boosting malaria transmission. They demonstrate that immunizing against apyrase inhibits parasite transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was employed to detect the biochemical changes in Gordonia-HS126-4N bacterial strain mediated by exposure to 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene. SERS has revealed significant changes induced in the bacterial cells after exposure to a compound, confirming its potential for evaluating their desulfurization capability. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were demonstrated to be effective tools for comparison of the exposed and unexposed bacterial strains. PCA was used for differentiating the SERS spectra of unexposed and exposed Gordonia-HS126-4N. PLS-DA was employed on SERS spectra for the discrimination of the unexposed and exposed bacterial strains with 87% specificity, 88% sensitivity, 89% accuracy, and the value of area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) of 0.78, which indicates the excellent performance of the chemometric model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare immune‐mediated pathology involving inflammatory demyelination of the central nervous system. Case Presentation. In this case report, we present the case of a nine‐year‐old female who exhibited altered mental status and focal neurological deficit, subsequently diagnosed as ADEM based on clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. The patient was managed symptomatically along with glucocorticoids. Conclusion. ADEM must be suspected when a patient, especially a child, presents with prodromal symptoms followed by multifocal neurological symptoms. Diagnosis can be established with an MRI brain scan. Most patients respond to high‐dose intravenous glucocorticoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to develop and propose an espoused model of women's entrepreneurship (EMWE) and test its predictive power on women's entrepreneurial intentions. Also, the authors examine the moderating role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy, given its dynamic nature that can be influenced by training. Design/methodology/approach: Data was collected from 303 female students from undergraduate/postgraduate programs in reputed Indian higher education institutions using a self-administered questionnaire. Findings: The study confirmed that all four factors – perceived entrepreneurial potential, perceived relational support, perceived educational support and perceived structural support – were positively related to the women's entrepreneurial intentions. Simultaneously, results confirmed the moderating effect of entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Research limitations/implications: The study presents that more women may be inclined towards adopting entrepreneurship as their career based on their potential and self-efficacy if adequate educational, relational and structural support was provided. Originality/value: Existing studies in entrepreneurship have focused primarily on men. This work fills this gap and not only proposes but empirically examines the EMWE in the Indian context. It also provides evidence of a significant impact of perceived entrepreneurial potential and perceived relational support on women's entrepreneurial intentions and posits the role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy as an important moderator, unlike past studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobile consumers track fluctuating resources across heterogeneous landscapes to grow and survive. In river networks, the abundance and accessibility of food and the energetic consequences of foraging vary among habitats and through time, providing a shifting mosaic of growth opportunities for mobile consumers. However, a framework integrating the spatiotemporal dynamics of growth potential within riverscapes has been lacking. We present the concept of foodscapes to depict the dynamic changes in food abundance, food accessibility, and consumer physiology that contribute to spatial and temporal variation of fish growth in rivers. Drawing on case studies of salmonid fishes from Alaska to California, we illustrate how foodscapes can provide a plethora of foraging, growth, and life history opportunities that potentially contribute to population resilience. We identify knowledge gaps in understanding foodscapes and approaches for stewardship that focus on restoring diverse foraging and growth opportunities for fish and other mobile consumers in river networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malware growth has accelerated due to the widespread use of Android applications. Android smartphone attacks have increased due to the widespread use of these devices. While deep learning models offer high efficiency and accuracy, training them on large and complex datasets is computationally expensive. Hence, a method that effectively detects new malware variants at a low computational cost is required. A transfer learning method to detect Android malware is proposed in this research. Because of transferring known features from a source model that has been trained to a target model, the transfer learning approach reduces the need for new training data and minimizes the need for huge amounts of computational power. We performed many experiments on 1.2 million Android application samples for performance evaluation. In addition, we evaluated how well our framework performed in comparison with traditional deep learning and standard machine learning models. In comparison with state‐of‐the‐art Android malware detection methods, the proposed framework offers improved classification accuracy of 98.87%, a precision of 99.55%, recall of 97.30%, F1‐measure of 99.42%, and a quicker detection rate of 5.14 ms using the transfer learning strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The radiation impact on the thermal distribution of the radial fin with the temperature-dependent thermal conductivity is discussed in this paper. The basic governing heat equation of the radial fin is formulated with the assistance of the Fourier law of heat conduction. The dimensional heat equation of the radial fin is non-dimensionalised utilising appropriate dimensionless variables and this ordinary differential equation (ODE) is tackled by employing the physics-informed neural network (PINN) scheme. The thermal attributes of the radial fin are investigated for different parameters like convection–conduction parameter, radiation–conduction parameter and thermal conductivity parameter. The outcomes of the systematic assessments of these parameters are demonstrated with the support of graphs. The rise in the thermal conductivity variable promotes thermal variation in the fin. A decrease in radiative–conductive variable scales augments the temperature dispersal through the fin. Furthermore, PINN incorporates physics equations directly into its architecture, unlike standard numerical approaches, which frequently require extensive mathematical expertise for accuracy. This approach enables PINN to give precise findings even when working with minimal training data, saving substantial time and resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: This review ascertains amaranth grains as a potent crop for food security and sustainable food systems by highlighting its agricultural advantages, health benefits and applications in the food, packaging, and brewing industry. The global population surge and rapidly transitioning climatic conditions necessitate the maximization of nutritional crop yield to mitigate malnutrition resulting from food and nutrition insecurity. The modern agricultural practices adopted to maximize the yield of the conventional staple crops are heavily contingent on the depleting natural resources and are contributing extensively to the contamination of these natural resources. Furthermore, these agricultural practices are also causing detrimental effects on the environment like rising emission of greenhouse gasses and increased water footprints. To address these challenges while ensuring sustainable nutrient-rich crop production, it is imperative to utilize underutilized crops like Amaranthus. Amaranth grains are gluten-free pseudo-cereals that are gaining much prominence owing to their abundance in vital nutrients and bio-active components, potential health benefits, resilience to adverse climatic and soil conditions, minimum agricultural input requirements, potential of generating income for small holder farmers as well as various applications across the sustainable value chain. However, due to the limited awareness of these potential benefits of the amaranth grains among the consumers, researchers, and policymakers, they have remained untapped. This review paper enunciates the nutritional composition and potential health benefits of the grains while briefly discussing their various applications in food and beverage industries and accentuating the need to explore further possibilities of valorizing amaranth grains to maximize their utilization along the value chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study deals with investigating the spatial variation of suspended sediment properties in the Sutlej river basin (SRB). Twenty sampling locations were selected in the Sutlej river and its tributaries, and sediment sampling was carried out during monsoon season. The suspended sediment properties, namely suspended sediment concentration (SSC), particle size distribution (PSD), shape, and mineralogy, were measured through dynamic imaging, laser diffraction, and x-ray diffraction techniques. It was found that there is a wide variation of SSC, whereas there is an insignificant variation of PSD, shape, and mineralogy in the SRB. The highest SSC (2841 mg/l) was observed in the Kiran tributary, whereas the lowest (131 mg/l) was in the Titang tributary. The highest SSC (1749 mg/l) in the Sutlej main stem was observed at Khab, the topmost sampling location. The mean particle size varies from 6.00 to 25.36 µm (5.53–7.53 Φ). Shape analysis showed high degree of sphericity varying from 0.81 to 0.88 and slight elongation varying from 0.70 to 0.8. Mineralogical analysis depicts the dominance of quartz (66.73–82.25%) in the SRB. International Electrotechnical Commission IEC 62364 (IEC 62364 (2019) Hydraulic machines—Guidelines for dealing with hydro-abrasive erosion in Kaplan, Francis, and Pelton turbines, 2nd edn. Geneva, Switzerland) based average shape and hardness factors for SRB were estimated as 1.36 and 0.85, respectively. The maximum particle load for SRB was estimated as 0.014 kg/m3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the dissociative recombination (DR) of ground-state molecular ions with low-energy free electrons is generally known to be exothermic, it has been predicted to be endothermic for a class of transition-metal oxide ions. To understand this unusual case, the electron recombination of titanium oxide ions (TiO+) with electrons has been experimentally investigated using the Cryogenic Storage Ring. In its low radiation field, the TiO+ ions relax internally to low rotational excitation (≲100 K). Under controlled collision energies down to ∼ 2 meV within the merged electron and ion beam configuration, fragment imaging has been applied to determine the kinetic energy released to Ti and O neutral reaction products. Detailed analysis of the fragment imaging data considering the reactant and product excitation channels reveals an endothermicity for the TiO+ dissociative electron recombination of (+4 ± 10) meV. This result improves the accuracy of the energy balance by a factor of 7 compared to that found indirectly from hitherto known molecular properties. Conversely, the present endothermicity yields improved dissociation energy values for D0(TiO) = (6.824 ± 0.010) eV and D0(TiO+) = (6.832 ± 0.010) eV. All thermochemistry values were compared to new coupled-cluster calculations and found to be in good agreement. Moreover, absolute rate coefficients for the electron recombination of rotationally relaxed ions have been measured, yielding an upper limit of 1 × 10−7 cm3 s−1 for typical conditions of cold astrophysical media. Strong variation of the DR rate with the TiO+ internal excitation is predicted. Furthermore, potential energy curves for TiO+ and TiO have been calculated using a multi-reference configuration interaction method to constrain quantum-dynamical paths driving the observed TiO+ electron recombination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Miniaturization is governed by the precise and accurate micro-machining operations of various applications. Micro-EDM has emerged as a feasible method for attaining microscale high-precision drilling. The present paper aims to conduct an experimental investigation for drilling micro-holes on copper using the Alumina (Al2O3) powder mixed Micro-EDM technique. Process parameters, including voltage, feed rate, and powder concentration, are varied in experimentation to evaluate their impact on response measures like MRR, TWR, taper angle, and aspect ratio. ANOVA determines the individual contribution of process parameters on each response measure. Voltage is the primary factor influencing MRR (93.5%), TWR (58.24%), and aspect ratio (67.3%), whereas the interaction effect of voltage with powder concentration primarily affects the taper angle (32.36%). Furthermore, the GRA method has optimized the multiple parameters for different responses. The optimum combination of parameters was obtained at a voltage of 125 V, powder concentration of 0.8 g/L, and tool travel speed of 9 µm/s at which better responses are received. The results obtained from FESEM analyses indicate that utilizing alumina (Al2O3) Nano-powder in the dielectric fluid leads to improved effectiveness and reduces the formation of micro-cracks, and micro-voids. Furthermore, the formation of recast layer is reduced by 36.49% as compared to without powder mixed EDM oil during micro-drilling operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heat transport analysis and thermal distribution in partially wetted wavy profiled fin are investigated in the current study. Convective, radiative effects and temperature‐dependent thermal conductivity are all considered in this heat transfer analysis. The dimensional governing temperature equations of the partially wetted wavy extended surface are nondimensionalized utilizing the appropriate dimensionless terms. Further, the resulting nondimensional thermal equations of the wavy fin are solved by employing Physics‐Informed Neural Network (PINN). The values of the temperature equations obtained by the numerical procedure Runge Kutta Fehlberg's fourth‐fifth (RKF‐45) order scheme are compared with PINN outcomes. The results are portrayed with the aid of tables, and the significance of several dimensionless constraints on the partially wet wavy fin is exhibited using graphical illustrations. A rise in the thermal conductivity parameter values enhances the wavy fin's thermal profile. The temperature of the wavy fin diminishes as the convective‐conductive parameter, temperature ratio parameter, and radiation‐conduction parameter upsurges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite gaining popularity in recent years, limited studies have explored revisit intentions towards green hotels. This study investigates the role of personal values on green hotel attributes and revisits intentions. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews using laddering interviews from 47 tourists. The data collection took place in an informal setting: a café over a coffee or telephone. The interviews were transcribed, and on the 463 pages transcript, open and axial coding were performed. The study drew from means-end theory and developed a hierarchal value map linking attributes, consequences, and values. The study contributes to means-end theory green hotel literature by identifying seven attributes (e.g. food, property) leading to eight consequences (e.g. organic taste, natural relaxation, being in nature) and thereby fulfilling nine customers' values (e.g. health, inner harmony, the world of beauty). The study also provides practical strategies for green hotel managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blowflies and beetles are among the invertebrate species that are attracted to dead bodies and can provide valid evidence in cases of murder or suspicious death investigation. An important consideration is the quality of the evidence which partly depends on the accurate identification of invertebrates. The morphological identification of blowflies has some limitations, especially in relation to damaged samples, or immature stages of the flies. DNA-based techniques such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequence analysis have been applied to overcome the shortfalls of the classical identification methods. The present study combined the use of classical and PCR methods to identify invertebrates associated with pig carrions in Nigeria. Adult invertebrates were collected on and around pig carcasses in Nigeria. A total of 416 invertebrates belonging to Diptera; Calliphoridae (n = 160), Sarcophagidae (n = 26) and Muscidae (n = 72) while Coleopterans; Dermestidae (n = 52), Histeridae (n = 63), Cleridae (n = 25) and Silphidae (n = 18) families collected from pig carrions in Nigeria were identified. The cytochrome oxidase 1 (cox1) gene from selected specimens was amplified and sequenced. Nucleotide sequence analysis and phylogenetic trees confirmed the presence of dipterans and coleopterans of forensic importance in Nigeria. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to use the mitochondrial cox1 gene coupled with sequence analysis to identify and characterize arthropods of forensic importance in Nigeria. This study provides reliable baseline data for further use in forensic entomology within the country and other regions where these arthropod species exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The precise mechanisms leading to the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remain incompletely defined. In this study, an integrative approach utilizing untargeted proteomics and metabolomics was employed to delineate the altered proteomic and metabolomic profiles in patients with HFpEF compared to healthy controls. Materials and methods: Data were collected from a prospective cohort consisting of 30 HFpEF participants and 30 healthy controls, matched by gender and age. plasma samples were analyzed by multi-omics platforms. The quantification of plasma proteins and metabolites was performed using data-independent acquisition-based liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), respectively. Additionally, Proteomic and metabolomic results were analyzed separately and integrated using correlation and pathway analysis. This was followed by the execution of Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment studies to elucidate the biological relevance of the observed results. Results: A total of 46 significantly differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and 102 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified. Then, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed by DEPs and DEMs. Integrated analysis of proteomics and metabolomics has revealed Tuberculosis and African trypanosomiasis pathways that are significantly enriched and the DEPs and DEMs enriched within them, are associated with inflammation and immune response. Conclusions: Integrated proteomic and metabolomic analyses revealed distinct inflammatory and immune response pathways in HFpEF, highlighting novel therapeutic avenues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) boost crop yields and reduce environmental pressures through biofilm formation in natural climates. Recently, biofilm-based root colonization by these microorganisms has emerged as a promising strategy for agricultural enhancement. The current work aims to characterize biofilm-forming rhizobacteria for wheat growth and yield enhancement. For this, native rhizobacteria were isolated from the wheat rhizosphere and ten isolates were characterized for plant growth promoting traits and biofilm production under axenic conditions. Among these ten isolates, five were identified as potential biofilm-producing PGPR based on in vitro assays for plant growth-promoting traits. These were further evaluated under controlled and field conditions for their impact on wheat growth and yield attributes. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy analysis further indicated that the biochemical composition of the biofilm produced by the selected bacterial strains includes proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleic acids (DNA/RNA). Inoculated plants in growth chamber resulted in larger roots, shoots, and increase in fresh biomass than controls. Similarly, significant increases in plant height (13.3, 16.7%), grain yield (29.6, 17.5%), number of tillers (18.7, 34.8%), nitrogen content (58.8, 48.1%), and phosphorus content (63.0, 51.0%) in grains were observed in both pot and field trials, respectively. The two most promising biofilm-producing isolates were identified through 16 s rRNA partial gene sequencing as Brucella sp. (BF10), Lysinibacillus macroides (BF15). Moreover, leaf pigmentation and relative water contents were significantly increased in all treated plants. Taken together, our results revealed that biofilm forming PGPR can boost crop productivity by enhancing growth and physiological responses and thus aid in sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is characterized by hepatic venous outflow tract obstruction and is commonly associated with an underlying hypercoagulable state. Systemic amyloidosis is a disorder characterized by systemic deposition of misfolded proteins leading to end organ damage. Amyloidosis is commonly associated with coagulation abnormalities, mainly leading to increased bleeding diathesis. Here, we report a case of amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis presenting as BCS. A 40-year-old man presented with abdominal distension along with anorexia and weight loss. On evaluation, he had severe hypoalbuminemia, raised alkaline phosphatase, and non-visualization of hepatic veins on abdominal imaging. Further evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of AL amyloidosis with renal, cardiac, and hepatic involvement. AL amyloidosis rarely can present with BCS. A high index of suspicion is needed as symptoms can be variable and non-specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nicobar Bulbul Ixos nicobariensis is an endemic species found across the central Nicobar Islands whose systematic position has been debated for many decades. Its current placement in the genus Ixos is tentative and is based on morphological similarities and geographical affinities to other members of the genus. We used mitochondrial and nuclear markers to examine its phylogenetic relationship to other members of Ixos and Hypsipetes. Our results indicate that the Nicobar Bulbul is sister to members of the genus Hypsipetes, and not Ixos. We further discuss the origin of this species based on the results of our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the diversity of Hymenoptera in Jai Narain Vyas University new campus in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Analyse their distribution and abundance in different microhabitats. Survey runed over a ten-month period from September 2022 to June 2023. Total 15 species from6 different families (Apidae, Formicidae, Sphecidae, Braconidae, Vespidae, Ichneumonidae) were recorded. The results showed that the diversity of species had different microhabitats, with the highest diversity found in gardens and trees. The results of this study are important for understanding the bee diversity of JNVU and suggesting conservation and management strategies to preserve the rich biodiversity of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The secure transmission of medical images and related digital patient records on untrusted channels has recently become a focus in healthcare industries. Data hiding and encryption are important tools for this goal. This paper proposes a data-hiding method for medical images in the context of invisibility, robustness, security and low time cost. A dual watermarking is introduced to accomplish chaos-based encryption to ensure medical images' copyright protection and content security. First, a local binary pattern based on neighbouring pixels is used to compute an optimal value, called an embedding factor, for embedding both marks. Second, the host medical image is marked using the lifting wavelet transform, the lower–upper (LU) decomposition and singular value decomposition with an embedding factor to protect ownership. Last, the marked image is encrypted by using a 3D-chaotic map. The method is tested on two standard datasets, which is convenient for medical applications. Our experimental results and performance analysis demonstrate that the proposed scheme produces a peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and NC wat 1 / NC wat 2 of 54.82 dB and 0.9916/0.9928, respectively. Furthermore, the key space analysis of our encryption technique is greater than 2 100 , which provides a high protection degree against brute-force attacks. The proposed scheme achieves better robustness, imperceptibility, and security performance than previous schemes. Our method can reduce time costs by 98% (91% on average), which results in lower time costs than other conventional encryption techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tecovirimat is the first-line antiviral treatment recommended for severe mpox or for persons with mpox who are at risk for severe disease; tecovirimat is available in the United States under an expanded access investigational new drug (IND) protocol. During the 2022-2023 mpox outbreak, local U.S. health jurisdictions facilitated access to tecovirimat. In June 2022, Los Angeles County (LAC) rapidly developed strategies for tecovirimat distribution using existing medical countermeasure distribution networks established by the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program and the Hospital Preparedness Program, creating a hub and spoke distribution network consisting of 44 hub facilities serving 456 satellite sites across LAC. IND patient intake forms were analyzed to describe mpox patients treated with tecovirimat. Tecovirimat treatment data were matched with case surveillance data to calculate time from specimen collection to patients receiving tecovirimat. Among 2,281 patients with mpox in LAC, 735 (32%) received tecovirimat during June 2022-January 2023. Among treated patients, approximately two thirds (508; 69%) received treatment through community clinics and pharmacies. The median interval from specimen collection to treatment was 2 days (IQR = 0-5 days). Local data collection and analysis helped to minimize gaps in treatment access and facilitated network performance monitoring. During public health emergencies, medical countermeasures can be rapidly deployed across a large jurisdiction using existing distribution networks, including clinics and pharmacies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the interplay between charge, nematic, and structural ordering tendencies in cuprate superconductors is critical to unraveling their complex phase diagram. Using pump-probe time-resolved resonant X-ray scattering on the (0 0 1) Bragg peak at the Cu L3 and O K resonances, we investigate nonequilibrium dynamics of Qa = Qb = 0 nematic order and its association with both charge density wave (CDW) order and lattice dynamics in La1.65Eu0.2Sr0.15CuO4. The orbital selectivity of the resonant X-ray scattering cross-section allows nematicity dynamics associated with the planar O 2p and Cu 3d states to be distinguished from the response of anisotropic lattice distortions. A direct time-domain comparison of CDW translational symmetry breaking and nematic rotational-symmetry breaking reveals that these broken symmetries remain closely linked in the photoexcited state, consistent with the stability of CDW topological defects in the investigated pump fluence regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the global environmental pollution problems, the application of biodegradable agricultural waste as a reinforcing material in the development of composite materials is one of the prominent solutions for sustainable development. Following that in the present investigation, a hybrid epoxy–based composite is fabricated using banana and glass fibers as reinforcing materials for lightweight structural applications. The main purpose of this research article is to utilize banana fiber (a biodegradable agricultural waste) as a reinforcing material in composite fabrication because of its low cost, non-abrasive, and eco-friendly nature. Herein, the fabricated composite material was characterized by various tests such as tensile, flexural, hardness, impact, thermal conductivity, and scanning electron microscopy. The effects of volume fraction and sequence of banana and glass fiber layers on mechanical properties such as tensile strength, hardness, flexural, and impact strengths were also investigated. Our results showed that for sample with alternating layer of banana and glass fibers and 1 wt.% charcoal, the epoxy-based composite exhibited the highest tensile, flexural and impact strengths of about 80.9 N/mm2, 145.4 N/mm2, and 3.5 kJ/m2, respectively. The same sample also reported the highest hardness of 56 VH. Furthermore, with the addition of banana fibers, the thermal conductivity of the laminates also increased. This enhancement in the mechanical and thermal properties with amalgamation of biodegradable banana fiber, strong glass fiber and water-resistant epoxy resin may help in manufacturing of lightweight composite domains for automobile and structural applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, corncob waste obtained from local agricultural fields in conjunction with boron nitride particles has been used as the reinforcement material to fabricate epoxy–based composite. The purpose of this research work is to use bio-waste in composite fabrication due to its low cost, non-abrasive, and eco-friendly nature. Aim of this investigation is to provide effective measure for waste disposal and enhance the flexural and tensile strength of the epoxy-based composites to increase its application in day to day life. Fabricated composite material is been characterized through tensile strength, flexural strength, the water up-take test, and fire resistance test. Nine different laminates are prepared with different proportions of corncob and epoxy through the hand layup process. Natural fibers may play important role in developing bio-degradable composite to resolve the current ecological and environmental problems. This report shows that natural water reinforcement also possesses good mechanical properties, and then, fiber composite can also be used in various engineering applications. Results shows that 3.5/3.5 boron nitride and corncob ratio (wt./wt.) composition possess the best flexural strength of about 36.7 N/mm2, and further characterization has been done only to this composition composite. 3.5/3.5 boron nitride and corncob ratio (wt./wt.) composite shows 2 to 3 times improvement in tensile strength as compared to the neat epoxy resin. Moreover, thermal decomposition of laminate occurs in three phases corresponding to 34%, 16%, and 27% of weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Himalayas are the source of several perennial rivers with significant hydropower potential. In the region, many hydropower projects are in operation, and many more are being built. Sediment transport in Himalayan rivers is high. The Alaknanda River basin (ARB) in the Indian Himalayas has a total hydropower potential of 4,081 MW. Only 871 MW of this capacity is being utilized; the remaining 3,210 MW still needs to be tapped. Comprehensive information on hydrosedimentary characteristics is required to design and develop hydropower projects. The present study assessed the spatial variation of the hydrosedimentary characteristics of the ARB. Suspended sediment samples were collected in polyethylene bottles from 19 locations in the ARB. Suspended sediment concentration (SSC), particle size distribution (PSD), shape, and mineral composition were evaluated for all the selected locations. There were minor variations in SSC for the sampling locations. The Pindar tributary was the main influence on SSC in the ARB. Most locations exhibited clay to very fine sand particles. A graphic test method indicated sediment with moderate sorting, coarse skewness, and leptokurtic distributions at most locations. Sorting tended to increase with increasing skewness. Kurtosis showed an increasing trend with skewness; it began decreasing after reaching a maximum value (1.5). No significant spatial variations in particle shape were observed in the ARB. Most of the sampling locations had sediments with high sphericity and slight elongation. No significant spatial variation of mineralogy was observed in the ARB. Numerous minerals were identified in the ARB. Quartz (68.78% to 79.93%) was the most dominant mineral. This dominance was confirmed by an elemental analysis, in which silicon (Si) and oxygen (O) were the most abundant elements (54.73% and 37.92%, respectively). Following a procedure outlined in an international standard, the mean shape and hardness factors for the ARB were estimated at 1.36 and 0.84, respectively. The maximum random uncertainty values for SSC, PSD, sphericity, and aspect ratio were found to be 1.46%, 0.37%, 0.64%, and 0.65%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has been developed to monitor mutations in the DNA of Aspergillus niger to enhance the production of cellulase enzyme. The DNA of A. niger fungus was mutated at specific points by CRISPR-Cas9 and subsequently isolated prior to SERS analysis. Specific spectral features have been identified which are associated with the DNA bases where the mutations have taken place. Those mutations ultimately led to the enhancement of cellulase production. The SERS spectra have been differentiated by multivariate data analysis, including principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The results indicate that the changes at 567 cm−1, 951 cm−1, 1300 cm−1, 1314 cm−1, 1393 cm−1, and 1442 cm−1 are associated with DNA mutations. PCA is able differentiate mutated from unmutated A. niger DNA. Moreover, the PLS-DA model identified and discriminated samples with an accuracy of 100%. These findings open up new avenues to rapidly and accurately characterize industrially-relevant biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing prevalence of mental disorders among youth worldwide is one of society's most pressing issues. The proposed methodology introduces an artificial intelligence-based approach for comprehending and analyzing the prevalence of neurological disorders. This work draws upon the analysis of the Cities Health Initiative dataset. It employs advanced machine learning and deep learning techniques, integrated with data science, statistics, optimization, and mathematical modeling, to correlate various lifestyle and environmental factors with the incidence of these mental disorders. In this work, a variety of machine learning and deep learning models with hyper-parameter tuning are utilized to forecast trends in the occurrence of mental disorders about lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol consumption, as well as environmental factors like air and noise pollution. Among these models, the convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture, termed as DNN1 in this paper, accurately predicts mental health occurrences relative to the population mean with a maximum accuracy of 99.79%. Among the machine learning models, the XGBoost technique yields an accuracy of 95.30%, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.9985, indicating robust training. The research also involves extracting feature importance scores for the XGBoost classifier, with Stroop test performance results attaining the highest importance score of 0.135. Attributes related to addiction, namely smoking and alcohol consumption, hold importance scores of 0.0273 and 0.0212, respectively. Statistical tests on the training models reveal that XGBoost performs best on the mean squared error and R-squared tests, achieving scores of 0.013356 and 0.946481, respectively. These statistical evaluations bolster the models' credibility and affirm the best-fit models' accuracy. The proposed research in the domains of mental health, addiction, and pollution stands to aid healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders in both youth and adults promptly through the use of predictive models. Furthermore, it aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers in formulating new regulations on pollution and addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health established a surveillance system to identify complicated (advanced human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] or hospitalized) mpox cases. From 1 August to 30 November 2022, we identified 1581 mpox cases, of which 134 (8.5%) were complicated. A subset of 8 cases did not recover after either initiating or completing a course of oral tecovirimat. All 8 patients were HIV positive and had advanced HIV (CD4 count <200 cells/μL). We identified 8 distinct mutations previously associated with tecovirimat resistance in specimens collected from 6 patients. Ongoing surveillance of viral evolution requires close coordination between health departments and frontline providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Root canal retreatment aims to eliminate or substantially reduce the microbial load from the root canal and removal of previous root filling materials is the primary goal of nonsurgical retreatment. Aim: To comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of ProTaper retreatment files, Mtwo retreatment files, and Hedstrom files along with Gates Glidden (GG) Drill by using a stereomicroscope for the detection of remaining gutta-percha after root canal retreatment using a stereomicroscope. Materials and Methods: Forty-five test samples were divided into three experimental groups (15 samples each), such as Group A--ProTaper retreatment files; Group B--Mtwo retreatment files; Group C--Hedstrom files along with Gates Glidden Drill. After routine endodontic treatment in the test samples, gutta-percha was removed from the test samples as per the division of different retreatment file systems. Further, test samples were divided longitudinally and were evaluated under the stereomicroscope. Stereomicroscopic images were captured and analysed under Image Analyser Software--Image J. Statistical Analysis: One-way ANOVA test was used for comparison of gutta-percha removal between the groups and Tukey's post hoc test was used for pairwise comparisons. Results: The least remaining filling material was seen in specimens retreated with the ProTaper universal system. The highest remaining filling material was seen in specimens retreated with Hedstrom file with Gates Glidden Drill. Conclusion: All experimental test techniques left gutta-percha remnants within the root canal. ProTaper universal rotary retreatment system proved to be an efficient method of removing gutta-percha and left relatively less volume in comparison with other test systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the relativistic correction to Bekenstein–Hawking entropy in the canonical ensemble and isothermal–isobaric ensemble and apply it to the cases of non-rotating BTZ and AdS-Schwarzschild black holes. This is realized by generalizing the equations obtained using Boltzmann–Gibbs (BG) statistics with its relativistic generalization, Kaniadakis statistics, or κ -statistics. The relativistic corrections are found to be logarithmic in nature and it is observed that their effect becomes appreciable in the high-temperature limit suggesting that the entropy corrections must include these relativistically corrected terms while taking the aforementioned limit. The non-relativistic corrections are recovered in the κ → 0 limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conserved miR-183/96/182 cluster (miR-183C) is expressed in both corneal resident myeloid cells (CRMCs) and sensory nerves (CSN) and modulates corneal immune/inflammatory responses. To uncover cell type-specific roles of miR-183C in CRMC and CSN and their contributions to corneal physiology, myeloid-specific miR-183C conditional knockout (MS-CKO), and sensory nerve-specific CKO (SNS-CKO) mice were produced and characterized in comparison to the conventional miR-183C KO. Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy of flatmount corneas, corneal sensitivity, and tear volume assays were performed in young adult naïve mice; 3′ RNA sequencing (Seq) and proteomics in the trigeminal ganglion (TG), cornea and CRMCs. Our results showed that, similar to conventional KO mice, the numbers of CRMCs were increased in both MS-CKO and SNS-CKO vs age- and sex-matched WT control littermates, suggesting intrinsic and extrinsic regulations of miR-183C on CRMCs. The number of CRMCs was increased in male vs female MS-CKO mice, suggesting sex-dependent regulation of miR-183C on CRMCs. In the miR-183C KO and SNS-CKO, but not the MS-CKO mice, CSN density was decreased in the epithelial layer of the cornea, but not the stromal layer. Functionally, corneal sensitivity and basal tear volume were reduced in the KO and SNS-CKO, but not the MS-CKO mice. Tear volume in males is consistently higher than female WT mice. Bioinformatic analyses of the transcriptomes revealed a series of cell-type specific target genes of miR-183C in TG sensory neurons and CRMCs. Our data elucidate that miR-183C imposes intrinsic and extrinsic regulation on the establishment and function of CSN and CRMCs by cell-specific target genes. miR-183C modulates corneal sensitivity and tear production through its regulation of corneal sensory innervation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]