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The current investigative exploration exemplifies the conceptualization of a novel design intelligent computing paradigm based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) by utilizing radial basis function (RBF) to analyze magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Williamson nanofluid two-dimensional flow along a stretchable sheet under the effect of chemical reaction as well as thermal radiation in a porous medium. This newly designed technique is an amalgam of a well-known reliable global solver named genetic algorithms (GAs) and a swift convergence generated local solver named sequential quadratic programming (SQP) used in ANNs by taking RBF as a kernel function i.e. ANNs-RBF-GASQP solver. The PDEs demonstrating the current nanofluid problem flow are transformed into the system of non-linear ODEs through a relevant similarity transformation and subsequently solved using ANNs-RBF-GASQP solver to investigate thermohydraulic properties by manipulating the values of various system parameters present in the ODEs. Moreover, the simulation results show that increasing the heat source parameter leads to a significant decrease in temperature. Additionally, an increase in the porosity parameter causes a decrease in the velocity of nanofluid, as a higher value of porosity increases fluid permeability and greater resistance to flow. The efficacy of the suggested solver is scrutinized through various statistical and convergence analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients presenting with periprosthetic osteolysis or fracture between ipsilateral hip and knee arthroplasties are challenging to treat successfully. Long-stem implants, osteopenic bones, and patient comorbidities all represent considerable surgical challenges. Poor results of fracture fixation in this group, coupled with the desire to retain well-performing implants and minimize soft-tissue trauma led to the developmentof the custom cement-over megaprostheses (CCOM). The aims of the study were to evaluate implant survivals, complications, and patient outcomes in those undergoing CCOM within our institution. A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing CCOM between 2002 and 2022 was performed. We studied 34 cases, 33 patients, one patient underwent staged bilateral surgery with 26 women and 8 men. Indications: trauma (16), failure of implants /aseptic loosening (9), or joint pathology. The mean Charlson comorbidity index was 3.5 (range, 0 to 8). All patients were followed up (mean 75 months [range, 9 to 170]) at 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter. The VAS, EuroQol-5D-3L and MSTS scores were collected at 1 year. Implant survival defined by the primary outcome (all-cause revision of the implant at any time point) at 12 months of 97% (32 of 33). In surviving patients, implant survival was 90% (18 of 20) and all 7 survived at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Implant survival including those in the primary outcome group and those free of infection at 12 months was 84.8% (28 of 33) and in surviving patients, implant survival was 70% (14 of 20) and 7 out of 7 at 5 and 10 years, respectively. The CCOM technique demonstrates good implant survivorships and satisfactory patient-reported outcomes in complex, often frail patients who have compromised bone stock. This series confirms the technique as an established alternative to total femoral replacement in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracies of ventilation/perfusion-single photon emission computed tomography (V/Q-SPECT) imaging modalities for acute pulmonary embolism (PE). These included, in addition to V/Q-SPECT, V/Q-SPECT with low-dose computed tomography (CT; V/Q-SPECT-CT), Q-SPECT with low-dose CT (Q-SPECT-CT), and Q-SPECT. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases were searched, and studies included if they studied ≥10 adult participants with acute PE and reported data on the imaging tests' diagnostic performance. Data were meta-analyzed using bivariate random effects regression model. Data from participants totaling 4146 from 11 V/Q-SPECT studies, 785 from 7 V/Q-SPECT-CT studies, 1196 from 7 Q-SPECT-CT studies, and 728 from five Q-SPECT studies were separately meta-analyzed. The bivariate weighted mean sensitivity and specificity were 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88–0.97) and 0.95 (95% CI: 0.87–0.98) for V/Q-SPECT, 0.95 (95% CI: 0.88–0.98) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.92–1.00) for V/Q-SPECT-CT, 0.92 (95% CI: 0.79–0.97) and 0.92 (95% CI: 0.83–0.96) for Q-SPECT-CT, and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.76–0.95) and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.67–0.95) for Q-SPECT studies. The positive and negative likelihood ratios (+LRs and –LRs) were 17.4 (6.9–44.0) and 0.06 (0.03–0.13), 76.7 (11.8–498.0) and 0.06 (0.02–0.13), 11.0 (5.3–22.9) and 0.09 (0.04–0.23), and 6.4 (2.6–15.8) and 0.13 (0.07–0.27) for V/Q-SPECT, V/Q-SPECT-CT, Q-SPECT-CT, and Q-SPECTs, respectively. In the diagnosis of acute PE, this meta-analysis showed that V/Q-SPECT-CT had the highest specificity and +LR. Conversely, Q-SPECT showed the lowest specificity and an unfavorably high −LR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major goal of this research study is to solve the fractional order Wolbachia invasive model (FWIM) by developing a computational framework based on the Bayesian regularization backpropagation neural network (BRB-NN) approach. The population of mosquitoes is categorized into two classes, Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes and Wolbachia-uninfected mosquitoes. We also incorporate incomplete cytoplasmic incompatibility and imperfect maternal transmission. We investigate the effects of the fractional order derivative (α) and reproduction rate of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes ϕ w on the dynamics of mosquitoes. The proposed Bayesian regularization backpropagation scheme is applied to three distinct cases using 80% and 20% of the created dataset for training and testing, respectively, with 15 hidden neurons. Comparisons of the results are presented to verify the validity of the proposed technique for solving the model. The Bayesian regularization approach is used to lower the mean square error (MSE) for the fractional order Wolbachia invasive model. The achieved results are based on MSE, correlation, state transitions, error histograms, and regression analysis to confirm the effectiveness of the suggested approach. Additionally, the absolute error value modifies the designed approach's accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming have become a stress condition due to the generation of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation with the industrial revolution. Climate change induces biotic and abiotic stress conditions which badly disturb the yield of crops with leading to the biochemical and physiological damages to plants. Therefore; this study investigated the capability of Morus alba L. wood biochar and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria PG1 (Pseudomonas sp.) and PG2 (Staphylococcus haemolyticus) to alleviate the drought condition in Brassica napus L. plant. In the current research work, the combined application of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) and biochar triggered an enhancement in physicochemical properties of soil including %field capacity, water use efficiency, germination parameters including Timson germination index, final emergence percentage, mean germination time, final germination percentage, germination energy, mean emergence time, germination rate index and vegetative parameters including seed vigor indexes (SVI-I & SVI-II) and plant height stress index. Inoculation and co-inoculation of PGPRs and biochar positively promote the canola plant growth even under induce drought stress condition. A positive increase in B. napus biomass including leaf area, plant height and root growth and its dry and fresh mass at p < 0.05 level, which support the effectiveness of this approach. Results also showed that Staphylococcus haemolyticus individually and in combination with biochar even under stress condition promote canola plant growth more than Pseudomonas sp. We concluded that under stressors, co-application of PGPRs and biochar could be an operative approach for enhancing plant productivity and its development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plugin hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can solve the concerns of toxic gases emissions from fossil fuel. The PHEV under consideration consists of an on-board smart charger and a hybrid energy storage system (HESS) composed of the battery as a primary power source and an ultracapacitor (UC) as a secondary power source conjoined with two DC–DC bidirectional buck-boost converters. The on-board charging unit comprises of an AC–DC boost rectifier and DC–DC buck converter. The entire system's state model has been derived. An adaptive supertwisting sliding mode controller (AST-SMC) has been proposed for the unitary power factor correction at the grid side, tight voltage regulation of the charger and the DC bus, adaptation of time varying parameters and tracking of the currents involving the variation in the load profile. A genetic algorithm has been applied for optimizing the cost function of the controller gains. Key results refers reduction of chattering, adaptation of parametric variations, nonlinearities and external disturbances of the dynamical system. HESS results presents negligible convergence time and overshoots/undershoots even at the transients, and no steady state error. For the driving mode, the switching between dynamic and static behaviors and for parking mode, vehicle to grid (V2G) and grid to vehicle (G2V) operations have been proposed. In order to make nonlinear controller intelligent to achieve the V2G and G2V functionality, a state of charge based high-level controller has also been proposed. A standard Lyapunov stability criteria has been used to ensure asymptotic stability of the entire system. The proposed controller has been compared with sliding mode control (SMC) and finite time synergetic control (FTSC) by the simulation results using MATLAB/Simulink. Also, the hardware in loop setup has been used to validate the performance in real-time. • A mathematical modeling of FC-UC based plugin HEV has been proposed. • An adaptive supertwisting SMC has been proposed for the unitary power factor correction at grid side. • Genetic algorithm has been used for optimization of controller gains. • Controller is validated through Matlab/Simulink. • Effectiveness of the proposed controller is assured by real-time controller HIL experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Surgical CAse REport (SCARE) guidelines are a standardized format for reporting surgical cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the completeness of case reports documenting alloplastic reconstruction of large craniomaxillofacial defects involving total mandibular, bilateral, and extended temporomandibular joint in major high-quality craniomaxillofacial journals, based on the SCARE guidelines. An extensive online search was performed according to the Priority Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Dimensions databases to identify relevant case reports. Each selected case report was assessed on 16 topics (38 items) of the SCARE guidelines, using a scoring scale of "0" (No/noncompliance), "1" (Yes/compliance), and "2" (unclear). The completeness of reporting (COR) score was calculated as the ratio of "yes" responses to "total" (ie, yes + no + unclear) responses. Adequacy of case reporting was denoted by a COR score of 70% or more. A total of 35 case reports were selected, where the male to female patients ratio was 3:4 cases, mean ± standard deviation (SD) age: 34.9 ± 16.7 years, mean ± SD follow-up duration: 17.0 ± 12.9 months, and number of patients with left, right, and bilateral temporomandibular joint reconstruction prostheses were 16, 10, and 09, respectively. The mean ± SD COR score for all 35 case reports and the individual item of the SCARE guidelines was 70.2 ± 10.5% and 66.5 ± 31.2%, respectively. The minimum and maximum COR score was found for "Keywords" (0.0%) and "Introduction" (100%) and "Clinical Findings" (100%), respectively. Adequate reporting was found for 20/35 (57%) case reports. This study revealed that case reports in major high-quality craniomaxillofacial journals suffer from insufficient reporting. Widespread adoption of available standards, such as SCARE guidelines, is proposed to improve the quality and robustness of case reporting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study has investigated the influence of a non-uniform magnetic field on heat transfer and entropy generation through the convection flow of ferrofluid filled inside the cavity in the presence of thermal radiation. Consider that magnetohydrodynamics is the result of the applied magnetic field, induced by the Lorentz force, while ferrohydrodynamics is the effect of the Kelvin force, which is associated with the applied magnetic field that affects the magnetized liquid. The highly coupled non-linear governing system of partial differential equations are transformed into the set of non-linear algebraic equations by utilizing the Galerkin finite element method, and the Newton-Raphson method has been used to solve them. Results show that the fluid velocity and entropy generation are decreased via increasing Magnetic number. Intensity of streamlines decreases from 12.407 to 1.004 by increasing Hartmann number from 0 to 5. Velocity and temperature profiles increases 31.25 % and 48 % respectively, by increases concentration of ferroparticles up to 0.05 %. The applications of this problem can be found in various heat transfer phenomena through fluid flow and their optimizations, such as in cooling processes of devices, advanced oxidation processes for dye removal from textile wastewater, solar collectors, chemical reactors, and heat exchangers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) has been shown to play a central role in the initiation and persistence of allergic responses. We evaluated whether tezepelumab, a human monoclonal anti-TSLP antibody, improved the efficacy of subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (SCIT) and promoted the development of tolerance in patients with allergic rhinitis. We conducted a double-blind parallel design trial in patients with cat allergy. A total of 121 patients were randomized to receive either intravenous tezepelumab plus subcutaneous cat SCIT, cat SCIT alone, tezepelumab alone, or placebo for 52 weeks, followed by 52 weeks of observation. Nasal allergen challenge (NAC), skin testing, and blood and nasal samples were obtained throughout the study. At week 52, the NAC-induced total nasal symptom scores (TNSS) (calculated as area under the curve [AUC 0-1h ] and as peak score [Peak 0-1h ] during the first hour after NAC) were significantly reduced in patients receiving tezepelumab/SCIT compared to SCIT alone. At week 104, one year after stopping treatment, the primary end point TNSS AUC 0-1h was not significantly different in the tezepelumab/SCIT group compared to SCIT alone, while TNSS Peak 0-1h was significantly lower in those receiving combination treatment versus SCIT. Transcriptomic analysis of nasal epithelial samples demonstrated that treatment with the combination of SCIT/tezepelumab, but neither monotherapy, caused persistent downregulation of a gene network related to type 2 inflammation that was associated with improvement in NAC responses. Inhibition of TSLP augments the efficacy of SCIT during therapy and may promote tolerance after a 1-year course of treatment. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02237196). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid spectrum usage in wireless networks may reduce energy efficiency, requiring cognitive radio networks to be more efficient than conventional ones. Due to increased data transmission demand, cognitive radio networks arose from a lack of spectrum bandwidth. Spectrum sensing and handoff decision are two cognitive radio network strategies that help avoid interference, channel access, and cohabitation between primary and secondary users. Current research focuses on handoff decision and cooperative spectrum sensing to improve sensing efficiency and system throughput while neglecting energy efficiency and handoff latency. Spectrum mobility and sensing are essential for energy-efficient cognitive radio networks. This study provides a second priority user transmission system using cooperative spectrum sensing to sense available channels. An energy detection technique optimizes the sensing process's energy usage, leading to energy efficiency. A primary user traffic pattern-based threshold approach is presented for spectrum mobility management. A threshold approach is utilized to calculate probabilistic stay-and-wait and QoS handoff values. The transmission channel is selected using a hybrid handoff strategy based on dynamic spectrum aggregation. Moreover, a cooperative spectrum sensing algorithm is described and simulated to identify the optimum channel with the greatest throughput and minimum energy consumption. The proposed approach increases energy efficiency and throughput while maintaining handoff delay and avoids miss-detection and false alarm. This technique improves energy efficiency, sensing performance, throughput, and handoff time. miss-detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asthma is the most common chronic condition in children and the third leading cause of hospitalization in pediatrics. The genome-wide association study catalog reports 140 studies with genome-wide significance. A polygenic risk score (PRS) with predictive value across ancestries has not been evaluated for this important trait. This study aimed to train and validate a PRS relying on genetic determinants for asthma to provide predictions for disease occurrence in pediatric cohorts of diverse ancestries. This study applied a Bayesian regression framework method using the Trans-National Asthma Genetic Consortium genome-wide association study summary statistics to derive a multiancestral PRS score, used one Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) cohort as a training set, used a second independent eMERGE cohort to validate the score, and used the UK Biobank data to replicate the findings. A phenome-wide association study was performed using the PRS to identify shared genetic etiology with other phenotypes. The multiancestral asthma PRS was associated with asthma in the 2 pediatric validation datasets. Overall, the multiancestral asthma PRS has an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.69-0.72) in the pediatric validation 1 and AUC of 0.66 (0.65-0.66) in the pediatric validation 2 datasets. We found significant discrimination across pediatric subcohorts of European (AUC, 95% CI, 0.60 and 0.66), African (AUC, 95% CI, 0.61 and 0.66), admixed American (AUC, 0.64 and 0.70), Southeast Asian (AUC, 0.65), and East Asian (AUC, 0.73) ancestry. Pediatric participants with the top 5% PRS had 2.80 to 5.82 increased odds of asthma compared to the bottom 5% across the training, validation 1, and validation 2 cohorts when adjusted for ancestry. Phenome-wide association study analysis confirmed the strong association of the identified PRS with asthma (odds ratio, 2.71, P FDR = 3.71 × 10−65) and related phenotypes. A multiancestral PRS for asthma based on Bayesian posterior genomic effect sizes identifies increased odds of pediatric asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strigolactones (SLs), relatively recent plant growth regulators, bolster plant resilience in challenging environmental conditions and augment signaling networks. Salinity, a well-established abiotic stressor, threatens global crop cultivation and productivity. We hypothesized that the synthetic SL analogue GR24 could alleviate salinity stress in maize by reducing oxidative damage and enhancing various growth and physiological attributes. To explore this hypothesis, we subjected two maize hybrids, PB-ProA-2018 and PB-ProA-2019, to seed priming with three GR24 concentrations (non-soaked, water-soaked, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1 mg/L) for 16 h. Seeds were then germinated in sand culture under two salt stress levels [ 0 (Control) and 100 mM NaCl] and nourished with Hoagland's nutrient medium. Salt stress significantly stunted maize growth attributes. The pre-soaking seed treatment with 0.01 mg L⁻1 GR24 demonstrated a significant enhancement in plant growth metrics, yielding a 31.3% increase in root length and a 62% augmentation in total leaf area per plant, in comparison to non-soaked yet stressed plants. Salt stress led to increased activities of catalase and peroxidase, along with higher levels of leaf ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde, H₂O₂, glycine betaine, and free proline, compared to control seedlings. Pre-soaking with 0.01 mg L−1 GR24 further upregulated superoxide dismutase (SOD) by 29.6%, peroxidase (POD) by 68.3%, catalase (CAT) by 25%, ascorbic acid by 23.1%, free proline by 42.3%, and total phenolics content by 13%, compared to stressed counterparts. Notably, the 0.01 mg L−1 GR24 concentration exhibited superior efficacy in mitigating salt stress effects, with PB-ProA-2019 outperforming PB-ProA-2018 among the maize hybrids. These findings advance our understanding of SLs' potential in alleviating salinity stress in maize, offering valuable insights for crop resilience enhancement. • Plant growth and physiological processes are severely hampered by salinity stress. • Under salinity stress, strigolactone mediates antioxidant mechanisms to scavenge ROS. • Strigolactone foliar application improved maize growth under salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Redundant Nerve Roots (RNR) is the elongated tortuous appearance of cauda equina nerve roots in sagittal MRI and is considered a poor prognostic factor. • Lumbar stenosis at L2/3 and L3/4 levels are likely to develop RNR. • Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy at the most stenotic level contributes to the RNR appearance of the cauda equina. • RNR represents Lower ligamentous interfacet distance at the stenotic level. Redundant Nerve Roots (RNR) is a common radiological observation of elongated tortuous appearance of cauda equina nerve roots in sagittal MRI. It is considered a poor prognostic factor, but the associated spinal morphometry remains unfamiliar. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Pakistan. Patients, aged 18 or above, undergoing decompressive spinal surgery due to degenerative Lumbar Spinal Canal Stenosis (LSCS) in 2015 were included. Patients were divided in groups as per presence of RNR and assessed for spinal morphometric parameters. Fifty-two patients, aged 57.52 ± 12.08 years, were enrolled in the study. The patients in RNR group were older than those in non-RNR group (p = 0.023). RNR was significantly associated with sedimentation sign (15 vs 11; p = 0.011), as well as L2/L3 (12 vs 9; p = 0.043) and L3/L4 (18 vs 18; p = 0.034) stenosis. Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy at the most stenotic level was more common in the RNR group (20 vs 19; p = 0.006). The only quantitative parameter statistically associated with RNR was lower ligamentous interfacet distance (5.07 ± 1.95 vs 8.07 ± 4.26 mm; p = 0.010). All other parameters did not contribute to the development of RNR in LSCS patients. The multivariate model revealed significant contribution of age, male sex, ligamentous interfacet distance and disc bulge to develop RNR. Certain spinal morphometric parameters contribute towards RNR formation, which represents higher degree of spinal stenosis. These parameters, along with RNR, should be regularly reported for preoperative consideration of LSCS management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic levitation (MagLev) system is an unstable, highly non-linear and dynamically fast. These characteristics make it challenging task to design a suitable controller to ensure any object to stay at a certain distance from the electromagnet with negligible error. It can be achieved by generating the required flux with the help of a control input. This suspension of ferromagnetic object in air is achieved by balancing the forces of attraction of gravity and electromagnetic. This makes the system highly vulnerable to external disturbances and parametric uncertainties. The controller must be able to adapt the changing electrical resistance and be robust if the mass of the levitating object for MagLev changes. In this paper, three nonlinear controllers: adaptive terminal sliding mode control (AT-SMC), adaptive backstepping sliding mode (ABS-SMC) and adaptive integral backstepping sliding mode (AIBS-SMC) based controllers have been proposed for tracking the air gap to desired value while maintaining the momentum and flux to desired values. Lyapunov theory has been used for proving the global asymptotic stability of the proposed controllers. For performance analysis, simulations have been carried out using Matlab/Simulink environment, where the proposed controllers have been compared with each other. Among the proposed controllers, AT-SMC gives better performance in terms of transient and overall dynamical response. The effect of parametric variations/uncertainties on all of the proposed controllers has also been examined by varying parametric values, by adding noise and disturbance in the system. Moreover, simulation results for the proposed controllers have also been compared with recently proposed controllers in literature. The physical realization of proposed AT-SMC has been examined with the help of a comparison between simulation results and the controller hardware in loop (C-HIL) experimental results. • An updated mathematical model of Maglev system has been considered. • Three nonlinear robust adaptive controllers have been proposed. • Using Lyapunov Stability Theory, asymptotic stability of the controller has been proved. • The comparison of the proposed controllers has been done using MATLAB/Simulink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollution resulting from terrestrial and aquatic trace elements has become a severe problem across the world. Organic carbon (OC) content has a high affinity for metallic contaminants and it acts as a significant sink for trace elements. The decomposition of OC content directly influences the bioavailability of trace elements. The decomposition of OC content and OC distribution vary spatially, these processes affect the release of trace elements and need further research. In the current study, sediment samples from the surface sediment along Beiyun River (Section 1 to Section 4 from upper to lower reaches), which is situated in the rapidly urbanized Beijing metropolis, were measured for OC, moisture, hardness, and trace elements. The OC contents were found to have a substantial difference among all four river sections along the urbanized river gradient. Whereas the higher OC contents were found in Sections 2 (Urbanized uplands) and 3 (farmland) compared to those in Sections 1 (forest) and 4 (farmland and part of constructed areas). On the other hand, the highest value of the correlation coefficient was found among the different values of trace elements and OC content in the riverine zone of the Beiyun River basin. OC contents play a vital role in the transformation and origin of trace elements in the surface sediment of the Beiyun River basin. The One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was applied to compare the means of OC and trace elements at different sections indicating no significant difference. However, source identification of trace elements indicated that a geogenic source was responsible for higher contents of As and (69.95%). Simultaneously, the natural OC, agricultural activities, and industrial waste contributed about (21.10%) towards the Cd and Zn, and about 10% for Cr and Cu. The current study concludes that the absolute principle component analysis–multiple linear regression (APCA-MLR) method can be successfully used to investigate the trace elements (Zn, Ni, Pb, Mn, Cd, Cu, and As) interactions through OC content resulting in determination of the various sources of contamination to cause negative environmental impacts on the ecosystem and human health. So, the current study provides a baseline for a quantitative evaluation of trace elements under different sediment of OC contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor recurrence is a severe problem of prostate cancer hormone therapy. The long-term androgen deprivation may result in the regeneration of androgen-independent (AI) cells. Intermittent androgen suppression (IAS) may be used to postpone or avoid androgen-independent relapse. Long-term hormone deprivation is associated with side effects that are poorly tolerated by patients. As a result, IAS is projected to improve clinical efficacy while reducing adverse effects and improving patients' quality of life during off-treatment times. Numerous mathematical models have been developed in the literature to investigate cancer dynamics in the context of hormone therapy. This study introduced several control methods, such as sliding mode control (SMC), integral sliding mode control (ISMC), super-twisting sliding mode control (ST-SMC), integral super-twisting sliding mode control (IST-SMC), and adaptive positive semi-definite barrier function-based sliding mode control (APB-SMC). The aim was to explore how these strategies could enhance hormone therapy's efficacy and patient outcomes, particularly in managing tumor recurrence and advancing prostate cancer treatment. However, using controllers to diminish cancer cells develops resistance to the treatment in most trials, highlighting the need for accurate drug scheduling. The parameters of the proposed controller were adjusted through a refined grey wolf optimization method, with the integral of the time absolute error serving as the target metric. The stability of the controllers is verified through mathematical analysis based on the Lyapunov stability theory. We tested the proposed controllers using MATLAB/Simulink simulations and validated the hardware through a hardware-in-the-loop experimental setup. This setup included the C2000 Delfino™ and the MCU F28379D Launchpad, operating in a real-time environment. • APSBFSMC controller is designed for therapeutic agent of the prostate cancer. • Comparative analysis has been done with previous studies. • Lyapunov stability theory is used for stability of tumor cells to desired reference. • MATLAB based simulations have been done to validate the proposed controllers. • Hardware validation through hardware-in-loop experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a small, single-stranded RNA virus that primarily infects the liver, leading to a wide spectrum of liver diseases and making it a pressing global health concern. Embarking on a journey through intricate dynamics, the nonlinear mathematical model of HCV delves deep to enhance our comprehension of its behaviors and potential intervention strategies. Researchers have crafted mathematical models to enhance our grasp of HCV transmission dynamics, focusing on the interactions among healthy, infected, and virion cells. This paper introduces diverse nonlinear controllers, notably sliding mode control (SMC) and integral super-twisting sliding mode control (ISTSMC). The primary objective of these controllers pertains to anti-viral therapy, specifically targeting the preservation of uninfected hepatocytes within established safety thresholds while simultaneously driving down the quantities of infected hepatocytes and virions to a complete elimination to zero. The controller's gains have been meticulously optimized employing a genetic algorithm, wherein the integral time absolute error serves as the designated objective function. Mathematical analysis incorporates the Lyapunov stability criteria to establish the asymptotic stability of the proposed controllers. All simulations are executed within MATLAB/Simulink, facilitating a comprehensive performance comparison of the proposed controllers. Moving beyond simulation, real-time validation entails a hardware-in-loop experimental setup featuring the C2000 Delfino alongside the MCU F28379D Launchpad. • Nonlinear controllers are proposed to reduce HCV and its transmission. • The gains of the controllers are optimized using improved genetic algorithm. • The Lyapunov stability is used for stability analysis of the proposed controllers. • Hardware validation through hardware-in-loop experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite quantum wires (PQWs) are a class of materials with exceptional optoelectronic properties that can be made using a variety of techniques, including solution processing and vapor-phase epitaxy. They have a wide range of potential applications in a variety of technological fields. This review article examines their fundamental characteristics, which support their wide range of applications and include tunable bandgaps, lengthy carrier lifetimes, and high carrier mobility. PQWs improve solar cell efficiency, are useful in photodetectors (PDs), light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and solid-state lighting applications, enable advanced sensing capabilities thanks to their high surface-to-volume ratio, contribute to resistive random-access memory devices (RRAM) with their resistive switching behavior, and support specialized applications like polarized light detectors and nanolasers, promising advancements in communication and quantum optics. PQWs stand out as a flexible and influential field with significant potential for revolutionizing a wide range of technologies, despite ongoing issues with stability and environmental concerns. These difficulties are being addressed by ongoing research projects, which will help PQWs fulfill their potential in a variety of applications. [Display omitted] • Perovskite quantum wires (PQW) have high carrier mobility, extended carrier lifetime, and tunable band gaps, which are important for advanced optoelectronics devices. • PQW-based solar cells are a potential candidate for next-generation solar cells because of their excellent light-absorbing qualities. • The nanoscale structure of PQW's higher carrier mobility and tunable bandgaps allows it to detect a wide range of wavelengths with high sensitivity. • PQW-based LEDs have exceptional crystallinity, colour purity, tunable bandgap, and simplicity of processing. • High surface-to-volume ratio and resistive switching make PQW an excellent material choice for advanced ReRAM technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yeast species found in the phyllosphere and rhizospheric soil of plants are acknowledged as proficient biocontrol agents against the soilborne and airborne fungal plant pathogens. The unicellular yeasts are particularly valuable due to their ease of cultivation and effectiveness as biocontrol agents against various yeast genera. This review article thoroughly described the fundamental exploration of yeast biocontrol mechanisms, including myco-parasitism, volatile metabolites, killer toxin production, toxic enzyme secretion, induction resistance in the host plant, and competition for resources on plant surfaces and in the soil. Antagonistic yeasts are highlighted for their productions of killer toxins, that disrupt vulnerable segments of the targeted pathogen, such as cell wall degradation, plasma membrane disruption, tRNA linkage breakage, and DNA mutation. The use of beneficial microbe-based products those derived from yeast is a multifaceted strategy to controlling post-harvest fungal pathogens and enhancing plant health. Commercially available yeast-based products, namely Boni-protect® (Aureobasidium pullulans), Nexy® (Candida oleophilic), Candifruit® (Candida sake), Shemer® (Metschnikowia fructicola), Pantovital® (Pantoea agglomerans), and Romeo® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)." For example: "Boni-protect® (Aureobasidium pullulans), Nexy® (Candida oleophilic), Candifruit® (Candida sake), Shemer® (Metschnikowia fructicola), Pantovital® (Pantoea agglomerans), and Romeo® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) are discussed for their efficacy against postharvest fungal pathogens. This review article enhances the understanding of biocontrol mechanism and formulation strategies for yeast based commercial products, supporting future research efforts in fungal pathogen managements. • Yeast species combat soilborne and airborne fungal pathogens. • Ease of cultivation makes unicellular yeasts noteworthy biocontrols. • Exploring yeast biocontrol mechanisms: myco-parasitism and more. • Antagonistic yeasts' killer toxins target pathogen vulnerabilities. • Commercial yeast-based products enhance plant health effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer, the second leading cause of death worldwide following cardiovascular diseases, presents a formidable challenge in clinical settings due to the extensive toxic side effects associated with primary chemotherapy drugs employed for cancer treatment. Furthermore, the emergence of drug resistance against specific chemotherapeutic agents has further complicated the situation. Consequently, there exists an urgent imperative to investigate novel anticancer drugs. Steroidal saponins, a class of natural compounds, have demonstrated notable antitumor efficacy. Nonetheless, their translation into clinical applications has remained unrealized thus far. In light of this, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review elucidating the antitumor activity, underlying mechanisms, and inherent limitations of steroidal saponins. Additionally, we propose a series of strategic approaches and recommendations to augment the antitumor potential of steroidal saponin compounds, thereby offering prospective insights for their eventual clinical implementation. This review summarizes steroidal saponins' antitumor activity, mechanisms, and limitations. The data included in this review are sourced from authoritative databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and others. A comprehensive summary of over 40 steroidal saponin compounds with proven antitumor activity, including their applicable tumor types and structural characteristics, has been compiled. These steroidal saponins can be primarily classified into five categories: spirostanol, isospirostanol, furostanol, steroidal alkaloids, and cholestanol. The isospirostanol and cholestanol saponins are found to have more potent antitumor activity. The primary antitumor mechanisms of these saponins include tumor cell apoptosis, autophagy induction, inhibition of tumor migration, overcoming drug resistance, and cell cycle arrest. However, steroidal saponins have limitations, such as higher cytotoxicity and lower bioavailability. Furthermore, strategies to address these drawbacks have been proposed. In summary, isospirostanol and cholestanol steroidal saponins demonstrate notable antitumor activity and different structural categories of steroidal saponins exhibit variations in their antitumor signaling pathways. However, the clinical application of steroidal saponins in cancer treatment still faces limitations, and further research and development are necessary to advance their potential in tumor therapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology has transformed drug delivery, offering opportunities to enhance treatment outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. This study focuses on gelatin-coated cobalt and manganese ferrite nanoparticles for potential drug delivery applications. The synthesis involved a co-precipitation method, and the nanoparticles were characterized using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Results revealed stable structures, distinct chemical features introduced by gelatin coating, and unique magnetic properties. The hemolysis assay demonstrated reduced hemolytic activity with gelatin coating, enhancing biocompatibility. Drug release studies indicated differential release profiles, with gelatin-coated cobalt ferrite exhibiting higher drug release compared to gelatin-coated manganese ferrite. The Higuchi model supported diffusion-controlled drug release for gelatin-coated cobalt ferrite. These findings suggest the potential of gelatin-coated ferrite nanoparticles for controlled and targeted drug delivery, highlighting their significance in advancing nanomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the unique surface microstructure, abundant active sites, and rich functional groups, two-dimensional MXene is increasingly gaining attention in the field of environmental purification. Herein, novel fluorine-free niobium carbide (Nb 2 CT x) was successfully synthesized using hydrothermal technique and applied towards the Cr(VI) ions elimination from wastewater. The structure and surface properties of the Nb 2 CT x were analyzed by various characterization techniques. Based on the findings of batch adsorption, the maximum Cr(VI) ions was removed at solution pH 5 with adsorbent loading of 1 g/L and Cr(VI) initial concentration of 10 mg/L just after 20 min of stirring. Besides, the characteristic information of Nb 2 CT x and their adsorption data was used to build a machine learning CatBoost model with high precision (R2 = 1, RMSE = 0.145, MAE = 0.08). Cr(VI) removal by MXenes displayed rapid kinetics governed by pseudo-second-order reactions, with adsorption isotherm aligning well with Langmuir isotherms (R2 = 0.998), achieving an adsorption capacity of 93.6 mg/g. The removal mechanism investigation proposed that the electrostatic interactions, chemical reduction and hydrogen bonding were the key driving forces. The hydrothermal route proposed in this study enabled the fabrication of environmental friendly Nb 2 CT x , which can pave the way for their widespread applications in environmental purification. [Display omitted] • Fluorine-free Nb 2 CT x MXenes were synthesized using a hydrothermal technique. • The optimized operating parameter were determined for Cr(VI) adsorption over Nb 2 CT x. • The adsorption of F-free Nb 2 CT x can be described by a Langmuir isotherm. • Major mechanisms are H-bond formation, chemical reduction and synergistic effects of electrostatic interactions. • CatBoost model was applied to predict the adsorption capacity and removal efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, we have calculated theoretical calculations on XPH2 (X=Li, Na, K) by using DFT. These cubic structures are metallic in nature and mechanical stable. LiPH 2 has 5.048 wt% gravimetric hydrogen density which has capability to use for hydrogen storage applications. [Display omitted] • XPH 2 (X = Li, Na, K) metal hydrides have tetragonal crystal structures and a P 4/ mmm (1 2 3) space group. • The gravimetric hydrogen capacities (Cwt %) of KPH 2 , NaPH 2 , and LiPH 2 are 2.796, 3.6011 and 5.048 wt% respectively. • The electronic properties of these metal hydrides show that XPH 2 (X = Li, Na, K) compounds are metal. • KPH 2 and NaPH 2 are stable and meet Born stability criteria, and LiPH 2 is unstable. H 2 storage is the current research focus for scientists of this era as it is naturally occurring, non-polluting, economical, and clean. This manuscript is based on a first-principles study of metal hydrides and the WIEN2k code is used to determine their H 2 storage properties. The investigation of the present work discloses the elastic, structural, electronic, thermoelectrical, and thermodynamic properties of XPH 2 (X = Li, Na, K) metal hydrides with the help of density functional theory (DFT). All of these compounds are tetragonal and their gravimetric densities are 5.048 , 3.6011and 2.796 wt% for LiPH 2 , NaPH 2 , and KPH 2 , respectively. The PDOS, TDOS, and band structure (by mBJ) of the XPH 2 hydrides are determined by their electronic characteristics, and the findings demonstrate that these metal hydrides are metals. The GIBBS2 code is also used to evaluate thermodynamic properties like entropy, Debye temperature, and specific heat. The elastic constant is used to identify the mechanical stabilities of these hydrides, demonstrating that these compounds have a ductile nature and are mechanically stable except for LiPH 2. The formation energy of these compounds is calculated. Furthermore, the Boltzmann transport equation is also used for the elucidation of thermoelectric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Evaluation of Internet-of-Things (IoT) integration in urban environments. • Investigating the efficiency of real-time monitoring in waste management. • Development of a predictive model aimed at optimizing waste collection routes. • Introduction of a multiagent simulation framework to analyze IoT benefits. • Comparison of IoT sensor-based versus traditional waste collection approaches. Effective waste management arises as a crucial challenge for smart city development in the current era of rapid urbanization, shifting towards sustainability and public health. Harnessing modern technologies, especially the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) with intelligent waste bins, can revolutionize urban waste collection, optimizing efficiency and reducing costs. This paper delves into a multiagent simulation-based framework for understanding and assessing the dynamics of an IoT-enabled smart waste management system. Initiating with the intricate process of garbage generation, we shift our focus to the real-time monitoring capabilities of IoT-connected waste bins. The study further explores protocols to regulate bin status, along with timing mechanisms to trigger garbage collection rounds. Subsequently, a predictive routing system is introduced to determine the most efficient garbage collection routes. For the bins' filled level tracking, the ultrasonic sensors are commonly used that send out sound waves and track their echo return time, whereas weight sensors measure the garbage load in the bin, providing insights into waste production trends. For data transmission from bins to the central system, various communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, cellular networks, and long-distance networks are considered. Through a simulation, we contrast the innovative IoT-enabled sensor-based collection mechanism against the conventional periodic review strategy. Field experiments at the Al Rayyan locale, proximate to Doha, Qatar, facilitate the model demonstration. By leveraging region-specific data, we simulated various aspects including economic factors, environmental impact, public satisfaction, and operational efficiencies. The findings indicate that with an average daily garbage generation of 1.3 kg per individual, the sensor-driven mechanism remarkably outperforms the periodic review approach by covering fewer distances with fewer trucks, while concurrently achieving the key objectives of cost-efficiency, environmental preservation, public satisfaction, and reduced employee workload. This research contributes to the developing field of smart city technology by providing critical insights for urban planners, policymakers, and technologists attempting to build more sustainable, efficient, and livable cities. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To minimize the global warming and the impact of greenhouse effect, renewable energy sources-based microgrids are widely studied. In this paper, the control of PV, wind-based renewable energy system and battery, supercapacitor-based energy storage system in a DC microgrid have been presented. Maximum power points for PV and wind have been obtained using neural network and optimal torque control, respectively. Nonlinear supertwisting sliding mode controller has been presented for the power sources. Global asymptotic stability of the framework has been verified using Lyapunov stability analysis. For load-generation balance, energy management system based on fuzzy logic has been devised and the controllers have been simulated using MATLAB/Simulink® (2019a) along with a comparison of different controllers. For the experimental validation, controller hardware-in-the loop experiment has been carried out which validates the performance of the designed system. • PV and wind-based renewable energy sources integrated to form a DC microgrid. • Battery and supercapacitor integrated as an electric energy storage system. • Fuzzy logic-based energy management system implemented for load-generation balance. • Supertwisting-SMC based nonlinear controllers designed to control power sources. • Controller hardware-in-the loop experiments performed to validate the performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous use of brackish groundwater for irrigation is detrimental for soil and crop attributes. A three-year research study was designed for the wheat crop to assess the effects of brackish groundwater on crop yield and soil health under a surface irrigation system. Three sites were selected in different cropping zones of Pakistan. The treatments comprised of irrigation with moderately brackish water having 0.8, 1.3 & 2.7 dSm−1 of salinity and canal water. The results indicated that EC, SAR, bicarbonates, Ca2+ and Mg2+ levels increased in the soil for consecutive years and this increase was more at site S3 followed by S2 and S1. As soil depth is concerned, the increase was more pronounced in upper layers of soil (0–15 cm) as compared to 15–30 cm depth. Growth and yield were also affected by the consecutive use of this water, the number of plants, plant height, the number of spikes per plant, and yield was reduced at all the three sites. However, the impact was less pronounced at the site S1 whereas S3 was the most affected one. Grain weight and dry matter weight were observed to be maximum at S1. Water productivity was also calculated for all the three sites. Maximum water productivity was observed at S1 followed by S2 & S3. It was concluded that the continuous use of brackish water would have an adverse effect on crop yield and subsequently, soil health is also affected by it significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochemical, antioxidant, serum, and urine profiles together with physical examination can deliver important information regarding animal health status, and are vital in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. CCl 4 , a potent nephrotoxin, was used for causing toxicity in rat kidneys. The present study aimed at exploring the nephroprotective potential of P. jacquemontiana leaves methanol extract (PJM) and P. hydaspidis whole-plant methanol extract (PHM) on kidney cells of male rats after oxidative stress and DNA damage was instigated by CCl 4. Various parameters including enzymatic levels, serum profiles, urine profiles, genotoxicity, and histological studies were conducted. In renal samples of rats treated with CCl 4 , the antioxidant enzymes (POD, SOD, CAT), PH level, protein level, and glutathione contents were significantly (p < 0.05) declined whereas renal biochemicals (H 2 O 2 , TBARS, and nitrite), specific gravity, level of urea, urobilinogen, serum BUN and creatinine were markedly (p < 0.05) increased relative to control group. Co-administration of PJM and PHM with CCl 4 displayed protective ability against CCl 4 intoxication by restoring activities of antioxidant enzymes, urine profile, biochemical parameters, and serum profile in rats. CCl 4 also induced prominent DNA damages and glomerular atrophy with abnormal appearance of glomerulus and Bowman's capsule. These damages results in impaired corticular sections, edema in Bowman's capsule, accumulation of necrotic cells, dilation of convoluted tubules, and narrowing of space between Bowman's capsule, which were successfully ameliorated after co-administration of PJM and PHM fractions in a dose-dependent manner (200 and 400 mg/kg b.w.). The results obtained suggest the therapeutic role of PJM and PHM in oxidative-stress related disorders of kidney and may be helpful in kidney trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune modulating nutrition (IMN) has been shown to reduce postoperative infectious complications and length of stay in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Two studies of IMN in patients undergoing surgery for head and neck cancer also suggested that this treatment might improve long-term survival and progression-free survival. In the present study, we analysed follow-up data from our previous randomised controlled trial of IMN, in patients undergoing surgery for oesophagogastric and pancreaticobiliary cancer, in order to evaluate the long-term impact on survival of postoperative IMN versus an isocaloric, isonitrogenous control feed. This study included patients undergoing surgery for cancers of the pancreas, oesophagus and stomach, who had been randomised in a double-blind manner to receive postoperative jejunostomy feeding with IMN (Stresson, Nutricia Ltd.) or an isonitrogenous, isocaloric feed (Nutrison High Protein, Nutricia) for 10–15 days. The primary outcome was long-term overall survival. There was complete follow-up for all 108 patients, with 54 patients randomised to each group. There were no statistically significant differences between groups by demographics [(age, p = 0.63), sex (p = 0.49) or site of cancer (p = 0.25)]. 30-day mortality was 11.1% in both groups. Mortality in the intervention group was 13%, 31.5%, 70.4%, 85.2%, 88.9%, and 96.3% at 90 days, and 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 years respectively. Corresponding mortality in the control group was 14.8%, 35.2%, 68.6%, 79.6%, 85.2% and 98.1% (p > 0.05 for all comparisons). Early postoperative feeding with arginine-enriched IMN had no impact on long-term survival in patients undergoing surgery for oesophagogastric and pancreaticobiliary cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This literature research aimed to compare, contrast and quantify the innovations in the most commonly used dental biomaterials. Original research articles based on experimental dental biomaterials published between 2007 and 2019 were retrieved and reviewed. A search of electronic databases, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science indexed dental/biomaterials journals, has been conducted. The inclusion criteria in this research were: synthesis of experimental dental materials, whereas commercial dental materials, review articles, and clinical trials (case reports) were excluded. It was found that the amount of publications related to dental subgingival implants, computer-aided modeling ceramics, aesthetic restorative materials, adhesives cements, ceramics, bioceramics, endodontic materials, bioactive scaffolds, stem cells, and guided-tissue membranes had increased significantly from 2007. At the same time, the number of publications related to dental cements, silver amalgam, and dental alloys has decreased. For characterization of dental materials it was noted that mechanical properties were tested mostly for restorative materials. On the other hand, biological properties were most assessed for dental subgingival implants and endodontic materials, however, physical properties predominantly for bioceramics. It is concluded that to meet clinical demands there was more focus on restorative materials that provided better aesthetics, including resin composites, adhesive resin composites (luting cements), zirconia, and other ceramics. The boost in laboratory and animal research related to bioceramics was attributed to their regenerative potential. This current literature study will help growing researchers to consider and judge the direction to which research might be guided in order to plan prospective research projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C is such a harmful disease which can lead to serious health problems and it is caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) which causes liver inflammation and sometimes liver cancer. In this work, the control treatment strategy for HCV infection has been proposed. The advanced nonlinear dynamical mathematical model of HCV that has two control inputs and three state variables such as virions, infected hepatocytes and uninfected hepatocytes are considered for controller design in this research work. Moreover, four nonlinear controllers such as the Fractional Order Terminal Sliding Mode Controller (FOTSMC), Integral Terminal Sliding Mode Controller (ITSMC), Double Integral Sliding Mode Controller (DISMC) and Integral Sliding Mode Controller (ISMC) have been proposed in this work for HCV infection control inside the human body. In order to control the amount of uninfected hepatocytes to its required maximum safe limit, controllers are designed for antiviral therapy in which the amount of virions and infected hepatocytes are tracked to zero. One control input is ribavirin which blocks virions production and the other is pegylated interferon (peg-IFN- α) that acts as reducing infected hepatocytes. By doing so, uninfected hepatocytes increase and achieve the required maximum safe limit. To prove the stability of the whole system, Lyapunov stability analysis is used in this work. Simulation results and comparative analysis are carried out by using MATLAB/Simulink. It can be depicted from the given results that the virions and infected hepatocytes are reduced to their required levels completely using FOTSMC and the Sustained Virologic Response (SVR) rate is also enhanced in it. It reduces the treatment period as compared to previous strategies introduced in the literature and also system behaves very nicely even in the presence of un-modeled disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the global landscape continues to witness an increase in migration, the healthcare community faces an evolving challenge: the provision of quality medication care to migrant patients. Language barriers, cultural differences, and a lack of understanding of the local healthcare system can often impede the effective management of medications and access to healthcare services among migrant populations. Pharmacists, as medication experts, are dignified to make a substantial impact in bridging the gap between migrants and quality healthcare. Their expertise in medication management, accessibility, and counseling positions them as critical healthcare providers for this patient population. Pharmacies and pharmacists can serve as trusted hubs where migrants receive not only essential medications but also culturally sensitive support in navigating the healthcare system. This commentary article highlights the critical importance of culturally competent medication care for migrant patients and the central role that pharmacists can play in this endeavor. By establishing organization dedicated to this cause lead by pharmacists, we can not only address an urgent healthcare concern but also set a precedent for a healthcare system that values inclusivity, cultural competence, and equitable access to quality medication care for all, regardless of their cultural background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress is a pervasive issue in modern life, affecting both physical and mental health. Identifying biomarkers like cell-free DNA (cfDNA) could provide insights into stress response and help detect individuals at risk for stress-related disorders. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential use of cfDNA as a diagnostic biomarker in individuals experiencing stress. A case-control analysis was conducted using convenient sampling on university participants (N = 285 cases, N = 500 controls) aged 18–24. The study assessed haematological and lipid profile parameters using the Sysmex XP-300TM automated analyzer and an automated biochemistry analyzer, and cfDNA was extracted using a standardized in house developed Phenol-Chloroform protocol and estimated using Agarose Gel Electrophoresis and Nanodrop. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS ver. 21.0. The results indicated a significant difference between stressed individuals and healthy controls in demographic, haematological and biochemical parameters. Specifically, stressed cases had significantly higher levels of cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, VLDL cholesterol, and lower levels of HDL compared to healthy controls. Stressed cases also showed significantly elevated levels of circulating cfDNA relative to healthy controls. These findings suggest that cfDNA may have potential as a diagnostic biomarker for stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Efficacy of PDT in CL; a systematic review by Liu et al. 2023. • The systematic review reported 14 studies documenting 166 CL patients treated with PDT. • 06 studies with a total of 90 patients were regrettably ignored. • Are PDT treatment conclusions for CL patients reliable with many excluded studies?. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Intelligent anticipatory stochastic computing using ANN-BRTINs learning procedure for numerical treatment of NCDTM model for HIV Infection is presented. • The Adams technique is utilized viably to build the synthetic datasets for the execution of ANNs-BRTIN to test the behavior of the NCDTM model for sundry scenarios. • The merit function on MSE-is exploited for estimation of approximate results of presented ANNs-BRTINs for NCDTM models represented the dynamics of all four differential classes. • The reliability, stability, consistency, and strength in solving the NCDTM model by ANNs-BRTIN's has been confirmed by negligible absolute errors and MSE as well as reasonable regression metrics. The study aims to provide an overview of the design and analysis of the differential system of the Nonlinear Combined Drug Therapy Mathematical (NCDTM) model for HIV Infection. This is achieved by utilizing the artificial Neural Network with Bayesian Regularisation technique intelligent network (ANNs-BRTIN), which is a stochastic method that enhances accuracy, reliability, and efficiency in the dynamics calculation process. The NCDTM model is defined along with experiments employing integer and nonlinear mathematical forms via four classes Where the number of uninfected cells in the blood and represented by A (t) the countable number of free virus particles in the blood is represented by S (t) when RTI therapy is administered denotes the number of infected cells in the Pre-RT phase with η dosage represented by I (t) , D (t) represents when RTI therapy is administered using, reflects the number of infected cells in the post-RT phase η dosage. The numerical computing of the NCDTM system is performed with Adams methods, and these results are fed to the proposed ANNs-BRTINs for finding the approximated solution of four distinct instances by incorporating 15% of the data for testing and validation and 85% for training. The presented ANNs-BRTINs accuracy is illustrated by comparing the results from the acquired dataset of the Adam method for sundry scenarios. The use of regression for testing and residual, state transitions, mean square error, error histograms, and correlation in numerical replications of the ANNs-BRTINs is also explored to confirm their capacity, validity, consistency, correctness, and competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aqueous hybrid supercapacitor (AHSC) based on ammonium ion (NH 4 +) is an interesting energy storage device with excellent properties. However, the scarcity of appropriate and effective cathode materials limited its practicality. Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal nitrides, carbides, or carbonitrides (MXenes) show potential as cathode materials, but their low capacitance limits their applicability. Here, we synthesized N-functionalized 2D MXene (Ti 3 C 2 T x) with Ti 2 N interface engineering (Ti 2 N/Ti 3 C 2 T x), which displayed not only superior capacitance and rate capability but also a cycling stability than pristine Ti 3 C 2 T x. Ex-situ XRD and XPS were used to study the charge storage mechanism at the interface of Ti 2 N/Ti 3 C 2 T x. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to validate the superior conductivity at the interface of the Ti 2 N/Ti 3 C 2 T x (T x = OH) electrode. Moreover, AHSC was assembled with the Ti 2 N/Ti 3 C 2 T x as cathode, and activated carbon as anode possesses outstanding energy storage performance. This study not only elucidates the charge storage process of Ti 2 N/Ti 3 C 2 T x but also provides new insights for designing novel cathode materials for energy storage devices. [Display omitted] • The interface engineering between Ti2N and Ti3C2Tx has been developed and analyzed. • The created electric field at the interface promoted ions transport phenomenon. • Ex-situ XRD/XPS have been used to probe the charge storage mechanism. • The experimental results have been verified by using DFT calculations. • The Ti2N/Ti3C2Tx was utilized in both two- and three-electrode setup for NH4 + ion storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parity time symmetry and positive/negative refraction is investigated in chiral optical lattice. Significant parity time symmetry is reported in five level chiral optical lattice which satisfied the conditions R e (n r (±) (x , y)) = R e (n r ∗ (±) (− x , − y) and I m (n r (±) (x , y)) = − I m (n r ∗ (±) (− x , − y) for left and right circularly polarized beams. The related group indices, phase shifts and divergent angle are also satisfied the parity time symmetry conditions n g (±) (x , y)) = n g ∗ (±) (− x , − y) , ϕ (±) (x , y)) = ϕ ∗ (±) (− x , − y) and θ d , g (x , y) = θ d , g ∗ (− x , − y) for left and right circularly polarized beams. Maximum negative group index is calculated to − 25000. The maximum phase and group divergent angles are reported to 0.001 radian and − 0. 9 radian. The phase shifts in LCP and RCP beams are investigated to ± 0. 004 radian at a length L = 10 λ. The modified results have potential application in nanotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider a physical scheme for the realization of optical lattices that have negative refracting under certain conditions. The lattice is formed by clusters of five-level closed-loop chiral atoms assumed to have a Gaussian density distribution in dipole traps along one or two dimensions. With a suitable combination of strong standing wave control fields, spatial symmetry of atoms is achieved. Besides, the dispersion properties of an atomic lattice can be modified conveniently by adjusting various parameters related to the atoms or the lattice. We show that negative-like refraction is not specific to the atoms themselves, but also emerges due to the periodicity of the lattice. We further reveal that the refraction is negative over specific regions on the lattice and strongly depends on the number of atoms trapped along a particular direction. Our model is effectively controllable remotely and may have applications in negative refraction devices and optical information processing. • Enhancement of negative refraction in one- and two-dimensional chiral atomic lattices. • Negative-like refraction is not specific to the atoms themselves, but also emerges due to the periodicity of the lattice. • The refraction is negative over specific regions on the lattice and strongly depends on the number of atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite evidence demonstrating the impact of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) on outcomes, including mortality and heart failure hospitalizations, adoption and up-titration of such medications remain suboptimal. We examined the effectiveness of a remote centralized heart failure management program (CHFMP) on prescribing of GDMT in patients with HFrEF. We hypothesized that a remote CHFMP would increase prescribing of GDMT, both in terms of number of agents employed and doses of specific medications. A remote CHFMP was established in 2020 to assist primary providers across a complex urban academic medical center in managing patients with heart failure (HF). In one sub-program, the medication optimization program (MOP), a remote team of physician assistants and a HF physician prescribed GDMT to patients with HFrEF. Physician assistants used remote monitoring data (e.g., blood pressure, weights, and labs) to guide the prescription of therapeutic agents and up-titrating doses using guidelines created by a multidisciplinary team. Patients graduated from the program after meeting pre-specified criteria. Number of GDMT medications and doses were compared between the first and last visits for all patients who graduated using Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test, where appropriate. A total of 289 patients were enrolled for at least 30 days across 5 hospitals and graduated from the MOP between May 5, 2020 and December 20, 2022. Patients were enrolled for a median of 187 days (IQR 106-252 days). Median age was 60 years (IQR 50-71), and 196 (67.8%) were male. Figure A shows the increase in prescribing of several GDMT agents from the first to last visits for patients who graduated from the MOP. There was increased prescribing of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) and sodium/glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) (p <0.001 for both). Doses increased for sacubitril-valsartan, carvedilol, and metoprolol succinate from the first to the last visits among patients receiving those medications at the time of enrollment (Figure B, p <0.001 for all). For patients who did not reach target doses, hypotension (56 patients, 19.4%) and hyperkalemia (31 patients, 10.7%) were the most common limiting factors. A remote CHFMP increased prescribing of GDMT to patients with HFrEF, driven by increases in MRA and SGLT2i prescribing as well as dose escalation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• HIV CNS escape syndrome is characterized by high viral load in the CNS despite having low serum viral load. • The neurological manifestation of HIV CNS escape syndrome include acute onset of headache, tremors, cognitive impairment, focal neurologic deficit, seizures, behavioral disturbance, and dysarthria. • New onset refractory status epilepticus is a rare sequalae of HIV CNS escape syndrome. • It is critical to consider HIV CNS escape syndrome early on during the investigation of NORSE as it requires changing anti-viral treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current communication discloses the time dependent three-dimensional thermally developed flow of Maxwell nanofluid containing gyrotactic microorganisms. The flow is generated by bidirectional periodically moving and accelerated configuration. Moreover, heat transportation investigation is characterized by utilizing modified Cattaneo-Christov expressions. The formulated nonlinear partial differential equations are rendered into dimensionless form by using apposite transformations and then elucidated analytically via homotopic technique. The impact of diverse prominent parameters on dimensionless velocities, temperature, nanoparticles concentration and motile microorganism profiles are deliberated graphically. The observations reveal that the reduction in both components of velocity occurs due to magnetic parameter. The velocity has decreasing tendency in horizontal direction for bioconvected Rayleigh number and buoyancy ratio constant. It is further acknowledged that motile microorganism distribution leads to be decreased for enhancement in bioconvected Lewis and Peclet numbers, while opposing behavior is noticed for thermophoresis constant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is an important fruit crop with significant pharmaceutical potential. Little data are available on comparative pharmaceutical importance of the date pits. We designed this study to assess the antitumorigenic effects of date palm pits extracts from different Emiratis varieties. We used MDA-MB-231 cells derived from triple negative breasts cancer tissues as a model. We found that out of the 17 date pits extracts from 6 Emiratis varieties, three (Khalas extract in water + acetone (1:1), Abu-Maan extract in MeOH + Chloroform (1:1) and Mabroom extract in water + acetone (1:1)) were found effectively cytotoxic and changed morphology of cells in dose and time dependent manner. We found the maximum effect at 2.5 mg/mL concentration at 72 h. We calculated IC50 values for these varieties at 24 h. IC50 values for Khalas, Abu-Maan and Mabroom were 0.982 mg/mL, 1.149 mg/mL and 2.213 mg/mL respectively. We treated the cells with IC50 values of extracts and observed changes in protein profile using human kinase array kit. After analyzing the results, we suggest that EGFR/ERK/FAK pathway, eNOS and src family proteins are targets of these extracts. We conclude that date pits extracts can be a possible therapeutic agent against cancer and we suggest further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the anticancer potential of Euphorbia milii (E. milii) using an exquisite combination of phytopharmacological and advanced computational techniques. The chloroform fraction (Em-C) of E. milii methanol extract showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC 50 : 6.41 ± 0.99 µg/ml) among all studied fractions. Likewise, Em-C also showed significant cytotoxicity (IC 50 : 11.2 ± 0.8 µg/ml) when compared with that of standard compound 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (IC 50 : 4.22 ± 0.6 µg/ml) against hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2). However, in a human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa), Em-C demonstrated a non-significant difference in cytotoxicity (22.1 ± 0.8 µg/ml) when compared with that of 5-FU (IC 50 : 6.87 ± 0.5 µg/ml). Furthermore, Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the suppression of HepG2 cells was the consequence of a tremendous decrease in CDK2 and E2F1 protein expression. The GC–MS analysis of Em-C revealed the unique presence of cyclobarbital (CBT) and benzodioxole derivative (BAN) as major constituents. Furthermore, molecular docking of compounds BAN, CBT, and MBT into the binding site of different molecular targets i.e. cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), thymidylate synthase (TS), caspase 3, BCL2 and topoisomerase II was carried out. Compounds BAN and CBT have demonstrated remarkable binding affinity towards CDK2 and thymidylate synthase, respectively. Molecular dynamic simulation studies have further confirmed the finding of docking analysis, suggesting that CDK2 and TS can act as an attractive molecular target for BAN and CBT, respectively. It can be concluded that these E. milii phytoconstituents (BAN and CBT) may likely be responsible for anti-invasive activity against HepG2 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and its sequelae are becoming one of the most pressing public health concerns worldwide. It is one of the leading causes of increased morbidity and mortality. The primary insult to the brain can cause ischemic brain injury, paralysis, concussions, death, and other serious complications. Brain injury also involves other systems through a secondary pathway resulting in multiple complications during and after hospitalization. The focus of our article is to assess the literature available on traumatic brain injury and intestinal dysfunctional to highlight the aspects of epidemiology, pathophysiology, and different diagnostic approaches for early diagnosis of gut dysfunction. We review studies done in both humans and animals, to better understand this underrated topic, as it costs billions of dollars to the healthcare industry because of delayed diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganglion cysts are among the most common benign soft tissue masses. Although surgery has been shown to be effective, ∼12% to 42% of cases with long-term follow-up have been reported to recur. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of the topical application of mitomycin C used as an adjuvant to surgery on recurrence rate of ganglion cysts. A retrospective analysis was done on all patients surgically treated by 1 surgeon for ganglion cysts. The primary end point was local recurrence after the procedure, determined clinically and by ultrasound. Secondary outcomes included wound complication rate, adverse effects, and overall patient satisfaction. A total of 98 consecutive patients were included in this study and assigned to a study group in a nonrandomized manner. The control group (n = 52) consisted of patients who underwent surgical resection only. The study group (n = 46) consisted of patients who underwent surgical resection with application of topical mitomycin C. No patients were lost to follow-up. Of the 52 patients in the control group, 13 (25.0%) had recurrence of the ganglion cyst. In contrast, in the experimental study group, 2 patients (4.3%) had a recurrence. There was no difference in superficial wound infections between the 2 groups. In this study, we found that the use of topical mitomycin C as an adjuvant to surgical resection significantly reduced the recurrence rate. Wound infection and overall nonrecurrence complication rates were similar to those of other studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Electrode misplacement and interchange errors are known problems when recording the 12‑lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Automatic detection of these errors could play an important role for improving clinical decision making and outcomes in cardiac care. The objectives of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to 1) study the impact of electrode misplacement on ECG signals and ECG interpretation, 2) to determine the most challenging electrode misplacements to detect using machine learning (ML), 3) to analyse the ML performance of algorithms that detect electrode misplacement or interchange according to sensitivity and specificity and 4) to identify the most commonly used ML technique for detecting electrode misplacement/interchange. This review analysed the current literature regarding electrode misplacement/interchange recognition accuracy using machine learning techniques.Method: A search of three online databases including IEEE, PubMed and ScienceDirect identified 228 articles, while 3 articles were included from additional sources from co-authors. According to the eligibility criteria, 14 articles were selected. The selected articles were considered for qualitative analysis and meta-analysis.Results: The articles showed the effect of lead interchange on ECG morphology and as a consequence on patient diagnoses. Statistical analysis of the included articles found that machine learning performance is high in detecting electrode misplacement/interchange except left arm/left leg interchange.Conclusion: This review emphasises the importance of detecting electrode misplacement detection in ECG diagnosis and the effects on decision making. Machine learning shows promise in detecting lead misplacement/interchange and highlights an opportunity for developing and operationalising deep learning algorithms such as convolutional neural network (CNN) to detect electrode misplacement/interchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]