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Memristors have several chaotic dynamic models and have been used successfully in various fields, including secure communication systems, information storage, and artificial neural networks. The memristor-based four-dimensional chaotic (FDMC) systems generate unpredictable and intricate time domain signals. Parameter fluctuations in the FDMC system may give birth to chaos, making it difficult to suppress. Stabilizing chaos in the FDMC system improves the circuit's performance. This paper synthesizes a novel time-efficient chatter-free nonlinear robust adaptive control (NLRAC) technique that stabilizes chaos in the FDMC system affected by time-varying unknown bounded exogenous disturbances and model uncertainties. The proposed NLRAC strategy decimates the time-varying unknown bounded exogenous disturbances and model uncertainties effects; it establishes a faster, smoother state-variable trajectories convergence to the zero vicinity. The theoretical analysis and mathematical proofs are based on the Lyapunov stability technique. Computer simulation results show that the proposed NLRAC technique effectively brings the FDMC system's state-variable trajectories to zero with reduced fluctuations for control input signals and state-variable trajectories. This feedback controller's attribute enhances closed-loop stability performance, improves precision, and reduces risk overshoot. The paper includes comparative computer simulation results to endorse the proposed controller performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rici collineations (RCs) have been used in this research to study the locally rotationally symmetric (LRS) Bianchi type I spacetimes. To accomplish our objectives, the RC equations are typically integrated for both situations of the Ricci tensor, degenerate and non-degenerate. Throughout this work, a number of situations occur that provide various finite and infinite dimensional Lie algebras of RCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In coronavirus pandemic, misconception, distrust, uncertainty, and fear have emerged within the general public. Amidst this environment, health professionals were the primary bearers of accurate information regarding the causes of death, the severity of infections, and the intensity of disease transmission. Objective: To assess the attitude and responses of health professionals working in tertiary care hospitals of city Peshawar during pandemic regarding corona infection and related deaths. Study type, settings & duration: This descriptive cross sectional study was conducted at tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar, from March to May 2020. Methodology: The sample size of 126 health professionals were taken at the peak of pandemic in Pakistan. A predesigned online questionnaire was shared with individual health professional after taking telephonic consent. Each health professional filled the online questionnaire and resubmitted. The data was collected, analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results: A total 126 health professionals participated in the study, 61 (48.4%) were doctors, 58 (46%) nurses and 7 (5.6%) were allied health professionals. Total 46 (54.1%) health professionals agreed, that old age with comorbidities, stigma and late approach to health facilities, comorbidities and spread asymptomatic cases were associated with increased mortality of COVID patients in city Peshawar. About 54 (42.9%) health professionals agreed with the existence of false perception of public that corona do not exist, and 13 (10.3%) disclosed about lack of proper facilities and ignorance in provision of care in Hospitals. Conclusion: Health professionals were in agreement that comorbidities, older age, late approaching to Hospital, stigma, false perception and lack of health facilities were the factors behind the increased corona infected deaths in Peshawar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study delved into the promising application of repurposed lemon peel powder as a supplement for augmenting the growth rate and bolstering the intestinal condition in broilers. Furthermore, it aimed to evaluate its potential as a natural alternative against experimental coccidiosis. The results revealed that incorporating 3 and 6 g/kg of lemon peel powder into the diet effectively countered the negative effect of coccidial oocysts on the birds' growth rates. This intervention resulted in notable reductions in cecal lesion scores and a reduction in oocyst shedding. Furthermore, it played a pivotal role in revitalizing the cecal villi of the broilers. These findings underscore the considerable promise of lemon peel powder as a viable and natural means to alleviate the adverse effects of coccidiosis and to enhance the overall well-being and performance of broiler chickens. To date, no study has reported the anticoccidial effect of lemon peel powder in broilers. Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species, is the prevalent enteric parasitic disease in poultry. Although certain chemical drugs have been used for their control, concerns regarding drug residues and the development of resistance in chickens have arisen among consumers. In this study, a total of 300 Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into five groups (five equal replicates of 12 animals). The first group served as the control and did not receive any specific treatment (NC). The second group, referred to as the positive control (PC) group, was deliberately exposed to Eimeria tenella. The third group was challenged with E. tenella and also received treatment with amprolium (1 g/kg) and was designated as AT. The fourth and fifth groups were challenged with E. tenella and simultaneously supplemented with lemon peel powder at a dosage of 3 g/kg (LPP3) and 6 g/kg (LPP6). Sporulated E. tenella oocysts (5 × 104/mL bird) on day 22 of the experiment were administered to the infected broiler chickens. The results indicated that in comparison with the NC, all Eimeria-treated birds exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) lower growth performance. However, a notable improvement was observed when infected birds also received a supplement of LPP3 and LPP6 in their feed. Both LPP3 and LPP6 supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) reduced mortality, lesion scores, and oocyst per gram (OPG) of feces compared with the PC group. Additionally, the histological features of the cecum revealed that villus height, villus width, and crypt depth were partially restored under supplementation with LPP3 and LPP6 in the infected birds. Overall, the results demonstrate that Eimeria-infected birds supplemented with LPP3 and LPP6 exhibited improved growth performance, reduced OPG, lowered intestinal coccidiosis lesion scores, and enhanced intestinal histological features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A qualitative analysis for a nonlinear system of fractional pantograph evolution differential equations (FPEDEs) has been established. Conditions about the solution of the underlying equations have been established in the direction of the existence and uniqueness of the solution. Using results of fixed‐point theorems of Krasnoselskii iterations in Banach spaces, we develop the required results. This research work is enriched by establishing the results related to Ulam–Hyers (UH) stability of the problem under consideration via the tools of nonlinear analysis. To validate the reliability of the obtained results, some pertinent examples are given in the manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HBV horizontal and vertical transmission rate vary among population in different social communities. To know the leading cause of HBV transmission among a community would ease the planning and strategies to minimize the spread. The objectives were to determine the frequency of different mode of intra-familial spread of Hepatitis B among the infected index identified families of rural community of Peshawar. Methods: This was 18 months descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among married couples of a defined rural community of district Peshawar. After taking informed consent from 797 couples of rural community, 3 to 5 ml blood sample was collected from each respondents for HbsAg screening along with the required data collected using predesigned questionnaire using convenient sampling techniques. HbsAg positive cases were considered as HBV index. Index case of both Hbs Ag positive parents were decided based on past history, previous exposure, past diagnosis and treatment record. The spouses and children of index cases were screened for serological determinants like HbsAg, HbeAg and ALT. Data was gathered and analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. Results: A total of 797 couples (1593 parents) were selected with proportion of household from ten different blocks of village Budhni. The prevalence of HBV infection among parents was found 1.5%. Nineteen HBV index families were detected among 797 parents screened for HbsAg. Spouse transmission rate of HBV were found 26.3% on average Transmission of HBV infection rate from index mother to children was 11.8%. About 10.5% index females were HbeAg positive. Conclusion: HBV transmission was high among the spouses followed by vertical transmission in a rural community of district Peshawar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-time tracking and surveillance of patients' health has become ubiquitous in the healthcare sector as a result of the development of fog, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. Medical IoT (MIoT) equipment often transfers health data to a pharmaceutical data center, where it is saved, evaluated, and made available to relevant stakeholders or users. Fog layers have been utilized to increase the scalability and flexibility of IoT-based healthcare services, by providing quick response times and low latency. Our proposed solution focuses on an electronic healthcare system that manages both critical and non-critical patients simultaneously. Fog layer is distributed into two halves: critical fog cluster and non-critical fog cluster. Critical patients are handled at critical fog clusters for quick response, while non-critical patients are handled using blockchain technology at non-critical fog cluster, which protects the privacy of patient health records. The suggested solution requires little modification to the current IoT ecosystem while decrease the response time for critical messages and offloading the cloud infrastructure. Reduced storage requirements for cloud data centers benefit users in addition to saving money on construction and operating expenses. In addition, we examined the proposed work for recall, accuracy, precision, and F-score. The results show that the suggested approach is successful in protecting privacy while retaining standard network settings. Moreover, suggested system and benchmark are evaluated in terms of system response time, drop rate, throughput, fog, and cloud utilization. Evaluated results clearly indicate the performance of proposed system is better than benchmark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcome of anterior acetabular fractures fixation with locally designed acetabular plate through anterior approach. Setting: The study was carried out at the Department of Orthopaedics and Spine Surgery, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar. Study design: Descriptive case series. Material and Methods: A consecutive series of patients with acetabular fractures treated using anterior approach and locally designed anatomical plates were included in the study. The fracture pattern, approach used, intra-operative and post-operative complications, quality of reduction and early post-operative outcome (6 months) were recorded. The study period was from January 2017 to July 2022. Results: There were 22 patients in this study, 17 were male and 5 were female. Average age at the time of injury was 34 years and ranged from 22-72 years. Among these 18-patients got admitted via accident and emergency and only 4-patients presented to our out-patient department. Commonest mechanism of injury was reported to be high energy trauma 19(86.3%). Road traffic accident (RTA) was the commonest mode of injury i.e. 16(72.7%). According to the Letournel classification, two fracture types were most common i.e. associated both column fracture 9(40.9%) and anterior column posterior hemi transverse 7(31.8%). Others were transverse fractures anterior column and anterior wall. Quadrilateral plate involvement was in 85% of patients. 18-patients were fixed via ilioinguinal approach while 3 patients were fixed through modified Stoppa approach. Overall anatomical reduction was seen in 75% of patients radio graphically. Associated both column fractures had lower incidence of anatomical reduction. At 6-months follow up 65% patients were symptom free. 60% patients had excellent radiological outcome. Conclusions: Acetabular fractures are complex injuries. Anterior column and associated both column fractures are usually fixed via anterior approach. Use of specially designed spring plate is useful in holding the quadrilateral plate in reduced form and results in satisfactory outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to know about the outcome of bipolar release of congenital muscular torticollis in children above 5-years. Introduction: Congenital muscular torticollis is the 3rd most common musculo-skeletal anomaly after club foot and developmental dysplasia of hip. It is characterized by shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle leading to tilting of head towards and chin to the opposite side. Physical therapy yields excellent results when diagnosed early. Surgery is indicated for late presentation or those with residual deformity after physical therapy. Material and Methods: It was a descriptive observational study utilizing consecutive nonprobability sampling technique. Patients with congenital muscular torticollis and age above 05 years were included in the study. Bipolar release was performed in all and outcome was measured with scoring system of Lee et al. Setting: The study was carried out at the Department of Orthopaedic and Spine Surgery, Haytabad Medical Complex, Peshawar from September 2008 to January 2020. Results: During the study period a total of 29-patients with Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT) underwent bipolar release of the SCM muscle. The mean age at surgery was 08.92±2.20 years (range = 05-18 years). Out of 29-patients excellent or good results were noted in 23 (79.3%). A score of 17-18 points was achieved in 17-patients (58.6%) accounting to excellent results whereas 08-patients (27.6%) were graded as good (15-16 points). Fair outcome was noted in 3 patient (10.3%). One patient had poor result in the study. Conclusion: Bipolar release of the sternocleadomastoid is a safe and effective method for treating Congenital Muscular Torticollis even in children older than 5 years. It has got few complications and it provides good cosmetic and functional results. It resolves the deformity and restores the neck range of motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Grip strength is widely accepted as an indicator of maximum hand strength and contraction of active muscles of the hand and forearm. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of forearm posture (pronation, supination and neutral) and anthropometric variation on MVC grip strength and grip endurance time in young university adults. METHODS: Fifty healthy, right-handed men volunteered to participate in this study. The experiment was characterized by measuring MVC grip strength and endurance time of 50% MVC randomly in three different postures (supine, pronation and neutral). Performance was assessed in terms of dependent variables: MVC grip strength and grip endurance time. RESULTS: MANCOVA results showed no significant effect of posture on MVC grip strength (p = 0:333) and grip endurance time (p = 0:772). There was a significant effect of age (p = 0.044), height (p = 0.012) and forearm length (p = 0.039) on the grip endurance time in supine position. However, palm circumference had a significant effect on MVC grip strength (p = 0.036) in pronation posture only. The pronation forearm posture produces 7.4% more grip strength than a supine posture. In addition, the grip endurance time was improved in the supine position, compared to the neutral and pronation forearm posture. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that the MVC grip strength is affected by the weight and palm circumference. In addition, palm circumference was the most influential factor affecting grip strength. Thus, anthropometric and posture-specific grip strength data are essential for clinical and industrial applications. The results can be used to prepare guidelines for rehabilitation, health care, sport and medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel continuous-time robust direct adaptive controller for the attitude control of the three-dimensional unknown chaotic spacecraft system. It considers that the plant's nonlinear terms, exogenous disturbances, and model uncertainties are unknown and bounded; the controller design is independent of the system's nonlinear terms. These controller attributes flourish the robust performance of the closed-loop and establish smooth state vector convergence to zero. The proposed controller consists of three parts: (1) a linear controller establishes the stability of the closed-loop at the origin, (2) a nonlinear controller component that autonomously adjusts the feedback gain, and (3) a nonlinear adaptive controller compensates for the model uncertainties and external disturbances using the online estimates of bounds and model uncertainties. The output of this part remains within a given upper and lower bound. The feedback controller gain is large when the state variables are away from the origin and become small in the origin's vicinity. This feature is novel and contributes to the synthesis of smooth control effort that establishes robust fast and oscillation-free convergence of the state variables to zero. The Lyapunov direct stability analysis assures the global asymptotic robust stability of the closed-loop. Computer simulations and comparative analysis are included to verify the theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant species represent the hierarchical expression of vegetation as it is affected by various environmental gradients. We explored the plant species composition, distribution pattern, communities formation and their respective indicators under the influence of various environmental factors in the Dhirkot region, Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It was hypothesized that different environmental factors were responsible for the formation of various plant communities each with a distinct indicator. Quantitative ecological techniques were used for the sampling of vegetation. A total of 114 quadrats were established in 13 selected sampling sites. Phytosociological attributes were calculated for each plant species at each quadrat. Soil samples were collected and analyzed using different standard protocols. All the collected data were analyzed using Cluster Analysis, Indicator Species Analysis and Canonical Correspondence Analysis of PCORD and CANOCO software, respectively. A total of 145 plant species were recorded belong to 62 different families. Asteraceae and Lamiaceae were the dominant families, represented by 12 species each (8.27%). Cluster Analysis classify all the stations and plants into four major plant communities as 1) Olea-Desmodium-Prunilla community. 2) Abies-Zanthoxylum-Pteracanthus community 3) Cedrus-Elaeagnus-Hypericum community 4) Alnus-Myrsine–Ranunculus community. Soil pH, electrical conductivity, soil saturation, organic matter and altitude were the significant environmental factors that play its essential role in the plant species distribution, composition, formation of major plant communities and their respective indicators in the region. It is recommended that the identified indicator and rare plant species of the investigated area can further be grown for conservation and management purposes in in-situ environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nurses' contribution to the health care system is remarkable and as health care professionals they are doing more than their capacity within the limited resources as well as lack of facilitation. Their demand has been increased in the last decade due to the gross increase in the population of the world. The advancement in science and technology, high morbidity and mortality along shortage of nurses are affecting the internship process among nursing graduates. Certain challenges such as shortage of nurses, lack of rewards and job satisfaction, high turnover, and compromised competencies can be seen among nursing graduates. However, they still use some coping strategies to overcome these issues. Furthermore, proper internship programs and policies related to these problems may be helpful at the individual or organizational level depending upon the nature of the problem. In addition, a well-organized leadership may play a positive role in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate a nonlinear system of pantograph-type fractional differential equations (FDEs) via Caputo-Hadamard derivative (CHD). We establish the conditions for existence theory and Ulam-Hyers-type stability for the underlying boundary value system (BVS) of FDE. We use Krasnoselskii's and Banach's fixed point theorems to obtain the desired results for the existence of solution. Stability is an important aspect from a numerical point of view we investigate here. To justify the main work, relevant examples are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This article proposes a new robust nonlinear controller that stabilizes a chaotic finance system in a finite-time without cancellation of the spacecraft's nonlinear terms, it improves the efficiency of the closed-loop. • It accomplishes an oscillation-free faster convergence of the perturbed state variables to the desired steady-state. • The proposed controller is insensitive to the parameter uncertainties of the nonlinear terms and exogenous disturbances. • The paper performs a comparative study to verify the performance and efficiency of the proposed controller. Robust, stable financial systems significantly improve the growth of an economic system. The stabilization of financial systems poses the following challenges. The state variables' trajectories (i) lie outside the basin of attraction, (ii) have high oscillations, and (iii) converge to the equilibrium state slowly. This paper aims to design a controller that develops a robust, stable financial closed-loop system to address the challenges above by (i) attracting all state variables to the origin, (ii) reducing the oscillations, and (iii) increasing the gradient of the convergence. This paper proposes a detailed mathematical analysis of the steady-state stability, dissipative characteristics, the Lyapunov exponents, bifurcation phenomena, and Poincare maps of chaotic financial dynamic systems. The proposed controller does not cancel the nonlinear terms appearing in the closed-loop. This structure is robust to the smoothly varying system parameters and improves closed-loop efficiency. Further, the controller eradicates the effects of inevitable exogenous disturbances and accomplishes a faster, oscillation-free convergence of the perturbed state variables to the desired steady-state within a finite time. The Lyapunov stability analysis proves the closed-loop global stability. The paper also discusses finite-time stability analysis and describes the controller parameters' effects on the convergence rates. Computer-based simulations endorse the theoretical findings, and the comparative study highlights the benefits. Theoretical analysis proofs and computer simulation results verify that the proposed controller compels the state trajectories, including trajectories outside the basin of attraction, to the origin within finite time without oscillations while being faster than the other controllers discussed in the comparative study section. This article proposes a novel robust, nonlinear finite-time controller for the robust stabilization of the chaotic finance model. It provides an in-depth analysis based on the Lyapunov stability theory and computer simulation results to verify the robust convergence of the state variables to the origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pool boiling under low gravity conditions, the vapor bubbles remain attached to the heating surface, which deteriorates the heat transfer rate. The present work demonstrates the integration of the electrowetting (EW) technique to resolve the bubble departure problem in pool boiling at low gravity conditions. A phase-field-based numerical method with a dynamic contact angle model has been implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics (V5.3) to investigate the problem. The bubble dynamics in the electrowetting integrated pool boiling for low gravity conditions are analyzed at various frequencies for different voltage waveforms, i.e., square, sinusoidal, and triangle. The EW technique increases the departure frequency of the bubble and the heat transfer rate compared to the conventional pool boiling. The sinusoidal voltage waveform shows the best performance among different voltage waveforms, producing 119.3% higher bubble departure frequency and 74.3% heat transfer enhancement than the conventional pool boiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we study the a coupled system of fractional pantograph differential equations (FPDEs). Using degree theory, we state necessary conditions for the existence of solutions to a coupled system of fractional partial differential equations with non-local boundary conditions. Also using tools from non-linear analysis, we establish some stability results. We illustrate our theoretical results with a test problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medication compliance among hypertensive patients is poor, affecting a large population which can be noted in the form of increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. Further, uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) can lead to multiple complications on the basis of gender and age. The aim was to explore the existing literature related to medication compliance among patients with hypertension. In this regard, literature search both nationally and internationally has been conducted. In conclusion, avoiding sedentary life style, awareness and counselling as well as family involvement, availability of anti-hypertensive medications in government hospitals and team based approaches are required for improving medication compliance among these patients. Qualitative researches are needed for exploring the challenges related to anti-hypertensive medication compliance both from patients and health care professionals' perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this research work is to establish existence results as well as to study qualitative aspects of the proposed coupled system of fractional hybrid delay differential equations (FHDDEs). Using the hybrid fixed point theory, we establish appropriate results for the existence of at least one solution to our problem. The powerful tools of functional analysis and dynamical systems are applied to derive different kinds of stability analysis. These include Ulam‐Hyers (UH), generalized Ulam‐Hyers (GUH), Ulam‐Hyers‐Rassias (UHR), and generalized Ulam‐Hyers‐Rassias (GUHR). In order to provide the authenticity of the our results, an illustrative example is given to wind up the present research work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research article, we develop a qualitative analysis to a class of nonlinear coupled system of fractional delay differential equations (FDDEs). Under the integral boundary conditions, existence and uniqueness for the solution of this system are carried out. With the help of Leray–Schauder and Banach fixed point theorem, we establish indispensable results. Also, some results affiliated to Ulam–Hyers (UH) stability for the system under investigation are presented. To validate the results, illustrative examples are given at the end of the manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of this study was to find out the seasonal variation in incidence of de Quervain's disease and its association with various occupations. Study design: Descriptive retrospective study Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at Department of Orthopaedic and Spine Surgery, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar and Khyber Medical Centre, Dabgari Garden, Peshawar from January 2007 to December 2019. Material and Methods: We evaluated our data of patients with diagnosis of de Quervain's tenosynovitis from 2007 till 2019. Patients with complete demographic data were included in the study. Th e fi ndings were analyzed and risk factors and seasonal variation in disease occurrence was analyzed. Results: Complete record of 460 patients was available. Females were 409 and 51 were males in a ratio of 1:8. Th e average age was 43 years. Most were housewives followed by teachers, doctors and manual laborers. Most cases presented in winter months, although there were peaks in summer as well. Conclusions: de Quervain's tenosynovitis is more common in housewives and manual workers. Th e presentation is more in winter months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity of the closed-loop system, short transient response time, and fast synchronization error convergence rates are the three basic parameters that limit hacking in the data encryption and secure the communication systems. This paper addresses the following two challenges: The full-order synchronization (FOS) of two parametrically excited second-order nonlinear pendulum (PENP) chaotic systems with uncertain parameters. The reduced-order synchronization (ROS) between the canonical projection part of an uncertain third-order chaotic Rossler and the uncertain PENP systems. This article designs a new robust adaptive synchronization control (RASC) algorithm to address the above two challenges. The proposed controller achieves the FOS and ROS in a shorter transient time, and the synchronization error signals converge to the origin with faster rates in the presence of bounded unknown state-dependent and time-dependent disturbances. The Lyapunov direct method verifies this convergence behavior. The paper provides parameters updated laws that confirm the convergence of the uncertain parameters to some fixed values. The controller does not cancel the nonlinear terms of the plant; this property of the controller keeps the nonlinear terms in the closed-loop that results in the enhanced complexity of the dynamical system. The proposed RASC strategy is successful in synthesizing oscillation free convergence of the synchronization error signals to the origin for reducing the transient time and guarantees the asymptotic stability at the origin. The simulation results endorse the theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new finite-time controller that realizes multi-switching synchronization of chaotic systems with bounded disturbances using the drive and response system synchronization arrangement. The finite-time controller derives the synchronization error to zero within a specified time. The proposed controller consists of three basic terms; each of them accomplishes a distinct objective: (1) stability of the control loop, (2) smooth and fast convergence behavior of the synchronization error, and (3) disturbance rejection. This study also devises a methodology for designing the finite-time controller and describes a general approach that furnishes a systematic procedure for the analysis of the closed loop. The smooth behavior terminology introduced in (2) refers to the over-damped convergence of the synchronization error signals to zero and the synthesis of chattering-free control effort. The analysis, which assures the global stability of the closed loop, uses the second stability theorem of the Lyapunov, while the finite-time stability technique determines the finite-time convergence. This paper includes simulations of two numerical examples for the validation of the theoretical findings and discusses the comparative analysis. The proposed methodology is suitable to design controllers for a wide range of hyper(chaotic) systems. The contributions of the paper are: (1) describe an innovative generalize analytical methodology for the multi-switching combination synchronization of chaotic systems and (2) propose a novel controller design that insures the finite-time synchronization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The security of the information signal in digital communication systems is an active research problem. This paper proposes a new robust adaptive anti-synchronization control (RAASC) technique and studies the multi-switching combination anti-synchronization (MSCAS) of different unknown hyperchaotic (UH) systems. This controller reduces the overshoots in the transient phase and establishes the anti-synchronization convergence quickly. The proposed MSCAS scheme anti-synchronizes two master UH systems with a slave UH system using the multi-switching mechanism that increases the complexity and enhances the security of the information signal in digital communications. The Lyapunov direct method assures the robust stability of the closed-loop dynamical system. This work provides adaptive laws that estimate the true values of unknown parameters. A numerical example of three different hyperchaotic Pang, Lu and Lorenz–Stenflo systems is simulated. The simulation results verify the theoretical findings. The proposed MSCAS approach is used for the secret communication of digital messages using the chaotic masking technique. The receiver retrieves the information signal with high security and good precession qualitatively, under the effect of different types of disturbances. This paper also discusses the implications of controller constituents of the proposed RAASC algorithm that establishes fast convergence. The article suggests some future research problems related to this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quick recovery of the information signals in secure communications restricts the hacking duration. The short synchronization convergence time is a crucial parameter for faster recovery. This paper develops a novel nonlinear finite-time synchronization control algorithm. This controller accomplishes the global finite-time multi-switching synchronization between two externally perturbed chaotic systems in the drive-response system synchronization scheme. The proposed controller assures the global convergence of the error dynamics in finite-time based on the Lyapunov theory. This implicitly guarantees the global stability of the closed loop. This paper considers Lp(0 < p < 1) norm inequality for the construction of the Lyapunov function. This method provides a means to determine the parameters of the proposed finite-time controller. This paper also studies the significance of structural components of the proposed controller that are responsible for the finite-time synchronization convergence. Computer simulation results of ‘two identical chaotic Lorenz systems’ and ‘chaotic Lorenz and Chen systems’ validate the theoretical findings. The paper discusses the simulation results and compares them with peer works as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria are considered the power house of cells where ATP is generated for cellular metabolism, and they also act as a crucial regulator of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. During ATP synthesis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced as secondary products. Overproduction of ROS can promote mitochondrial DNA mutation, dysfunction and depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, ultimately resulting in cell death. Therefore, the destruction of mitochondria would be an effective therapeutic approach to kill malignant tumors. Herein, we formulated a PEGylated α-TOS polymeric micellar system loaded with 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) drug to inhibit the nuclear topoisomerase I enzyme and disrupt the mitochondrial membrane to induce apoptosis. In addition, tumor-penetrating CRGDK peptide-functionalized TPGS 2k specifically bound to the Nrp-1 receptor to facilitate higher cell uptake of polymeric micelles by tumor cells. Experimental studies confirmed that HCPT-loaded and peptide-functionalized TPGS 2k -TOS micelles (HLPFTTM) showed an enhanced anti-cancer effect in A549 cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is devoted to investigate Korteweg–De Vries equations (KDVEs) with third order under fractional Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) derivative. We use an analytical method due to the Laplace transform and the Adomian decomposition technique. We establish the convergence analysis results for the considered problem by using nonlinear functional analysis. First of all, a general algorithm is developed for the computation of the required analytical approximate solution by using the mentioned method. By applying the developed algorithm, we then investigate the approximate solutions for some examples. The computed solution has also been presented graphically using Matlab. Laplace Adomian decomposition method (LADM) is a powerful full technique that is easy to implement. In addition, the said method has also a fast convergent quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene has an important role as a candidate gene for the regulation of bone mass in osteoporosis. However, its association with bone mineral density (BMD) is controversial and has not been established in different ethnic populations. To enhance the understanding of VDR gene polymorphism in the context of BMD, we investigated the plausible genetic association of TaqI and Apa I polymorphism with BMD in North Indian postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.254 osteoporotic women (Age 55.82 ± 6.91) and 254 postmenopausal non osteoporotic women (Age 54.76 ± 6.26) were included in the study. VDR TaqI and Apa I polymorphism were determined by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism). BMD was assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine (L 1 -L 4 ), hip, forearm and femoral neck. The average BMD with TT genotype was significantly lower at lumbar spine, hip and forearm. The Frequency of TT genotype and t allele was significantly high in osteoporotic women when compared with controls. The average BMD with Aa genotype was higher in Apa I. Furthermore, comparison of frequency distribution of genotype and allele for VDR ApaI between osteoporotic patients and controls did not show any significant difference. Our findings revealed that TaqI gene TT genotype was associated with low BMD in North Indian osteoporotic women. Moreover, TT genotype and t allele associated significantly with osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Therefore, VDR TaqI gene is an important determinant of risk factor for osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhibiting amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation has drawn much attention because it is one of the main reasons for the cause of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here we have synthesized a nanocomposite of graphene oxide-iron oxide (GOIO) and demonstrated its ability of modulating Aβ aggregation. The inhibition effects of the GOIO nanocomposite on Aβ aggregates was studied by Thioflavin T fluorescence assay, circular dichroism and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Furthermore, the cell viability study revealed that the GOIO nanocomposite can reduce the toxicity of Aβ fibrils to neuroblastoma cells. Our results demonstrated that the combination of GO and IO as a nanocomposite material has a potential use for the design new therapeutic agents for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CDKN2A locus encodes for tumor suppressor genes p16 INK4a and p14 Arf which are frequently inactivated in human skin tumors. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between loss of INK4a/Arf activity and inflammation in the development of ultraviolet (UV) radiation-induced skin tumors. Panels of INK4a/Arf -/− mice and wild-type (WT) mice were treated with a single dose of UVB (200 mJ/cm2). For long-term studies, these mice were irradiated with UVB (200 mJ/cm2) three times weekly for 30 weeks. At the end of the experiment, tissues were harvested from mice and assayed for inflammatory biomarkers and cytokines. A single dose of UVB resulted in a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and 8-dihydroxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG) lesions in INK4a/Arf −/− mice compared to WT mice. When subjected to chronic UVB, we found that 100% of INK4a/Arf −/- mice had tumors, whereas there were no tumors in WT controls after 24 weeks of UVB exposure. The increase in tumor development correlated with a significant increase in nuclear factor (NF)-κB, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and its receptors both in UVB-exposed skin and in the tumors. A significant increase was seen in inflammatory cytokines in skin samples of INK4a/Arf -/- mice following treatment with chronic UVB radiation. Furthermore, significantly more CD11b+Gr1+ myeloid cells were present in UVB-exposed INK4a/Arf -/- mice compared to WT mice. Our data indicate that by targeting UVB-induced inflammation, it may be possible to prevent UVB-induced skin tumors in individuals that carry CDKN2A mutation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) account for majority of skin malignancies in the United States. The incidence of BCCs is strongly associated with exposure of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-repeat-containing family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays an important role in innate immune responses. Different stimuli such as toxins, microorganisms and particles released from injured cells activate the NLRP3 inflammasome. Activated NLRP3 results in activation of caspase-1, which cleaves pro-IL-1β to active IL-1β. In this study, we have shown that NLRP3 is expressed in human basal cell carcinomas. The proximal steps in activation of NLRP3 inflammasome are not well understood. Here, we have attempted to elucidate a critical role for Ca2+ mobilization in activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by UVB exposure using HaCaT keratinocytes. We have demonstrated that UVB exposure blocks Ca2+ mobilization by downregulating the expression of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2), a component of store-operated Ca2+ entry that leads to activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Droplet impact on a hydrophobic surface can be controlled by varying the wettability of the surface. In the present work, the wettability of the surface is varied by applying alternating current electrowetting on a dielectric (AC EWOD), and the electrowetting-integrated droplet impact characteristics are analyzed for different frequencies, waveforms of applied voltages, and different sizes of droplets. A numerical technique with a dynamic contact model is developed to track the movement of the three-phase contact line in the electrowetting-integrated droplet impact process. The maximum spreading diameter of the droplet increases, and the recoiling of the droplet decreases with the increase in applied frequency at the first oscillation cycle of the droplet. Droplet spreading is more for the sinusoidal waveform than the triangular waveform. The impact of voltage frequency on the droplet spreading is more significant than the voltage waveform. The effect of electrowetting on the droplet impact is less for small-size droplets than the larger droplets. The electrowetting effect increases the dynamic wetting characteristics of the surface, resulting in enhanced spreading and reduced recoiling of the impacting droplet. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The naphthol derivative ( E )- N ′-((2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl)methylene)-1 H -indole-2-carbohydrazide ( 1 ) has been synthesized and characterized. Sensor 1 binds selectively with CN − ion in DMSO/H 2 O (7:3 v/v) mixed solvent medium with significant change in its UV–vis spectrum and detection limit of 1.2 μM. Sensor 1 shows dual emission bands at 335 nm and 460 nm due to naphthalene and excited state deprotonation of naphthalene OH group, respectively. Upon addition of CN − ion to 1 , fluorescence is turned on for the emission band at 460 nm with slight red-shift and fluorescence enhancement of 5.5 times. 1 undergoes binding followed by deprotonation of OH on titration with CN − ion, as supported by 1 H NMR titration. Solution of 1 in DMSO/H 2 O (7:3 v/v) exhibits considerable change in colour from colourless to yellow in visible light and green in long wavelength UV light (350 nm) upon addition of CN − ion selectively. Same visual colour change of 1 is observed on Whatman filter paper testing strips when it is impregnated on testing strips and immersed in CN − ion solution (DMSO/H 2 O, 7:3 v/v). 1 is used as a live cell imaging reagent for intra-cellular detection of CN − ion in A549 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proves that the robust finite-time synchronization behavior can be achieved for the chaotic systems with different orders. Based on the Lyapunov stability theory and using the nonlinear feedback control, sufficient algebraic conditions are derived to compute the linear controller gains. These gains are then used to achieve the robust finite time increasing order and reduced order synchronization of the chaotic systems. This study also discusses the design of a controller that accomplishes the finite time synchronization of two chaotic systems of different dimensions under the effect of both unknown model uncertainties and external disturbances. Numerical simulation results are furnished to validate the theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a novel robust nonlinear controller approach is focused to study theoretically, the reduced-order synchronization phenomena of two unrelated time-delayed chaotic systems under the determined and unknown parameters. It is assumed that the two systems are perturbed by the bounded unstructured uncertainties and unknown external disturbance. Based on the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional theory, a robust nonlinear synchronization controller is focused and a suitable Lyapunov functional is constructed so that they establish the globally asymptotical stability of the closed-loop at the origin. Subsequently, suitable adaptive laws of unknown parameters are designed to identify the unknown parameters. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed reduced-order synchronization approach is verified by numerical simulations. A brief comparison of the present study with prior works has been given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active control strategy is a powerful control technique in synchronizing chaotic/hyperchaotic systems. Until now, active control techniques have been employed to synchronize chaotic systems with the same orders. The present study overcomes the limitations of synchronization of chaotic systems of similar dimensions using active control. In this article, the authors investigate the synchronization problem for a drive-response chaotic system with different orders under the effect of both unknown model uncertainties and external disturbance. Based on the Lyapunov stability theory and Routh–Hurwitz criterion, a robust generalized active control approach is proposed and sufficient algebraic conditions are derived to compute a suitable linear controller gain matrix that guarantees the globally exponentially stable synchronization. Two examples are presented to illustrate the main results, namely reduced-order synchronization between the hyperchaotic Lu and the unified chaotic systems and the increased-order synchronization between the unified chaotic and the hyperchaotic Lu systems. There are three main contributions of the present study: (a) generalization of the active control for synchronization of a class of chaotic systems with different orders; (b) a recursive approach is proposed to compute a suitable linear controller gain matrix and (c) reduced (increased) order synchronization under the effect of both unknown model uncertainties and external disturbances. A comparative study has been done with our results and previously published work in terms of synchronization speed and quality. Future applications of the proposed reduced (increased) order synchronization approach are discussed. Finally, numerical simulations are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed reduced (increased) order active synchronization approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UVB radiation contributes to both direct and indirect damage to the skin including the generation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species ( ROS), inflammatory responses, immunosuppression and gene mutations, which can ultimately lead to photocarcinogenesis. A plant-derived flavonoid, baicalin, has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging activities. Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that in murine skin, Toll-like receptor-4 ( TLR4) enhanced both UVB-induced DNA damage and inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of baicalin against TLR4-mediated processes in the murine keratinocyte PAM 212 cell line. Our results demonstrate that treating keratinocytes with baicalin both before and after UV radiation (100 mJ cm−2) significantly inhibited the level of intracellular ROS and decreased cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and 8-Oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo- dG)-markers of DNA damage. Furthermore, cells treated with baicalin demonstrated an inhibition of TLR4 and its downstream signaling molecules, My D88, TRIF, TRAF6 and IRAK4. TLR4 pathway inhibition resulted in NF- κ B inactivation and down-regulation of i NOS and COX-2 protein expression. Taken together, baicalin treatment effectively protected keratinocytes from UVB-induced inflammatory damage through TLR pathway modulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cross infections occur frequently in dental health care personnel therefore, to protect themselves and their patients; they have to strictly follow infection control practices. Aims: To assess the impact of educational interventions on knowledge and practices of private dental practitioners. Study type, settings and duration: Interventional study, done from March 2012 to June 2013 in private practitioners of Peshawar using convenient sampling technique. Subjects and Methods: After acquiring base line data on the practices, pertaining to prevention of cross infection in dental practitioners, educational knowledge intervention was applied to them on same day and repeated after two months. Post intervention data was collected using same questionnaire. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Results: A total of 90 dental practitioners were included, of whom 49 (54.4%) were qualified and 41 (45.6%) unqualified. Their overall mean age was 33.77 ± 8.97 years. The mean age of qualified practitioners was 36.24 ± 10.40 years. Their pre and post intervention practices showed significant improvement in various practices like; screening of patients prior to procedure (p < 0.043), hepatitis B vaccination (p < 0.000), type of gloves used (p < 0.031), hand washing (p < 0.004), separate instrument processing area (p < 0.004), floor cleansing with disinfectant (p < 0.000) and proper ventilation (p < 0.021). The mean age of unqualified practitioners was 30.80 ± 5.73 years. Their pre and post intervention change in knowledge and practices showed poor compliance to most interventions. Conclusion: Qualified dental practitioners had a positive attitude towards educational interventions to prevent cross infection as compared to unqualified practitioners. Policy message: Yearly health education certification should be implemented for all health care professional (qualified and unqualified) to keep them abreast with the infection control practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of different surface wettability on AC EWOD induced oscillating dynamics are investigated. • Wettability affects the internal hydrodynamics of oscillating droplets. • Different phase regimes exist between the temporal variation in contact angle and contact radius. • Maximum amplitude varies linearly in the out-phase and mixed-phase regimes, whereas non-linearly during the in-phase regime. • Droplet oscillation exhibits P 2 mode, which is independent of the wettability. The present work reports numerical and experimental techniques for investigating electrowetting-induced oscillating water droplets for different hydrophobicity conditions of a surface. A phase-field-based code with a dynamic contact angle model is used to study the droplet dynamics. Hydrophobicity of the substrate intensifies the deformation and internal flow structures of the oscillating droplet. It also influences the phase difference between the contact angle and the contact radius, producing three different phase regimes, i.e., in-phase, out-phase, and mixed-phase regimes. The amplitude and frequency of the droplet oscillation change differently with the surface wettability in different phase regimes. Moreover, a simplified analytical model is developed to correlate the maximum amplitude of the oscillating droplet as a function of static contact angle. The formation of convective rolls inside and outside the oscillating droplet is observed at low frequency, which is required in microfluidic mixing and heat transfer applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present work reports the creation of Cu(OH) 2 nanoneedles on a copper surface using an anodization process for extending critical heat flux (CHF) limit in pool boiling applications. Three anodized samples have been prepared by applying three different current densities. Surface morphology and wetting characteristics of the anodized surfaces are presented. The characteristics of nanoneedles depend upon the applied current density. The formation of Cu(OH) 2 nanoneedles during the anodization process is confirmed by phase analysis using XRD confirms. The formation of Cu(OH) 2 nanoneedles increases the wettability and wickability of the anodized surfaces compared to the plain surface. At high current density, the anodized surfaces show nearly super hydrophilic behaviour. Due to enhanced wettability, the wall superheat required for nucleation is more, and nucleation site density is less for anodized copper surfaces. Bubble departure size is also more for anodized surfaces compared to the plain copper surface. The anodized surfaces show a higher CHF value compared to the plain copper surface. Rewetting of the boiling surface occurs by capillary wicking in the anodized surfaces, which delays the dryout phenomena resulting in CHF enhancement. A maximum enhancement of 39.74% in CHF is observed for the C-9 anodized surface compared to the plain copper surface. [Display omitted] • The creation of nanoneedles on copper surfaces using anodization is reported. • Surface characterization of anodized substrate is performed. • Anodized surfaces show improved wettability and wickability. • Pool boiling heat transfer characteristics of anodized surfaces are analyzed. • Anodized surfaces show a higher CHF than the plain copper surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type I interferons (IFNs) are important enhancers of immune responses which are downregulated in human cancers, including skin cancer. Solar ultraviolet (UV) B radiation is a proven environmental carcinogen, and its exposure contributes to the high prevalence of skin cancer. The carcinogenic effects of UV light can be attributed to the formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) and errors in the repair and replication of DNA. Treatment with a single dose of UVB (100 mJ/cm2) upregulated IFNα and IFNβ in the skin of C57BL/6 mice. IFNα and IFNβ were predominantly produced by CD11b+ cells. In mice lacking the type I IFN receptor 1 (IFNAR1), the repair of CPD following cutaneous exposure to a single dose of UVB (100 mJ/cm2) was decreased. UVB induced the expression of the DNA repair gene xeroderma pigmentosum A (XPA) in wild-type (WT) mice. In contrast, such treatment in IFNAR1 (IFNAR1-/-) mice downregulated XPA. A local UVB regimen consisting of UVB radiation (150 mJ/cm2) for 4 days followed by sensitization with hapten 2,4, dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) resulted in significant suppression of immune responses in both WT and IFNAR1-/- mice. However, there were significantly higher CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T-cells in the draining lymph nodes of IFNAR1-/- mice in comparison to WT mice. Overall, our studies reveal a previously unknown action of type I IFNs in the repair of photodamage and the prevention of UVB-induced immune suppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UVB-induced DNA damage has a critical role in the development of photoimmunosuppression. The purpose of this study was to determine whether repair of UVB-induced DNA damage is regulated by Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4). When TLR4 gene knockout (TLR4−/−) and TLR4-competent (TLR4+/+) mice were subjected to 90 mJ cm−2 UVB radiation locally, DNA damage in the form of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) was repaired more efficiently in the skin and bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) of TLR4−/− mice in comparison to TLR4+/+ mice. Expression of DNA repair gene XPA (xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group A) was significantly lower in skin and BMDCs of TLR4+/+ mice than TLR4−/− mice after UVB exposure. When cytokine levels were compared in these strains after UVB exposure, BMDCs from UV-irradiated TLR4−/− mice produced significantly more interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23 cytokines (P<0.05) than BMDCs from TLR4+/+ mice. Addition of anti-IL-12 and anti-IL-23 antibodies to BMDCs of TLR4−/− mice (before UVB exposure) inhibited repair of CPDs, with a concomitant decrease in XPA expression. Addition of TLR4 agonist to TLR4+/+ BMDC cultures decreased XPA expression and inhibited CPD repair. Thus, strategies to inhibit TLR4 may allow for immunopreventive and immunotherapeutic approaches for managing UVB-induced cutaneous DNA damage and skin cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The inflammasome is a multi-protein complex which when activated regulates caspase-1 activation and IL-1β and IL-18 secretion. The NLRP3 (NACHT, LRR, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3) inflammasome is constitutively assembled and activated in human melanoma cells. We have examined the inhibitory effect of thymoquinone (2-isopropyl-5-methylbenzo-1,4-quinone), a major ingredient of black seed obtained from the plant Nigella sativa on metastatic human (A375) and mouse (B16F10) melanoma cell lines. We have assessed whether thymoquinone inhibits metastasis of melanoma cells by targeting NLRP3 subunit of inflammasomes. Using an in vitro cell migration assay, we found that thymoquinone inhibited the migration of both human and mouse melanoma cells. The inhibitory effect of thymoquinone on metastasis was also observed in vivo in B16F10 mouse melanoma model. The inhibition of migration of melanoma cells by thymoquinone was accompanied by a decrease in expression of NLRP3 inflammasome resulting in decrease in proteolytic cleavage of caspase-1. Inactivation of caspase-1 by thymoquinone resulted in inhibition of IL-1β and IL-18. Treatment of mouse melanoma cells with thymoquinone also inhibited NF-κB activity. Furthermore, inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by thymoquinone resulted in partial inactivation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, thymoquinone exerts its inhibitory effect on migration of human and mouse melanoma cells by inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, our results indicate that thymoquinone can be a potential immunotherapeutic agent not only as an adjuvant therapy for melanoma, but also, in the control and prevention of metastatic melanoma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oxidative stress is one of the major players in the pathogenesis of maneb (MB) and paraquat (PQ)-induced disorders. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), a glutathione (GSH) precursor and silymarin (SIL), a naturally occurring antioxidant, encounter oxidative stress-mediated cellular damage. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of NAC and SIL against MB and/or PQ-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The levels of hepatotoxicity markers – alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and total bilirubin, histological changes, oxidative stress indices, phase I and phase II xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes – cytochrome P450 (CYP) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) and pro-inflammatory molecules – inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured in animals treated with MB and/or PQ in the presence or absence of NAC and SIL. MB and/or PQ augmented ALT, AST, total bilirubin, lipid peroxidation and nitrite contents and catalytic activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase however, the GSH content was attenuated. NAC and SIL restored the above-mentioned alterations towards basal levels but the restorations were more pronounced in SIL treated groups. Similarly, MB and/or PQ-mediated histopathological symptoms and changes in the catalytic activities/expressions of CYP1A2, CYP2E1, iNOS, TNF-α, and IL-1β were alleviated by NAC and SIL. Conversely, MB and/or PQ-induced GSTA4-4 expression/activity was further increased by NAC/SIL and glutathione reductase activity was also increased. The results obtained thus suggest that NAC and SIL protect MB and/or PQ-induced hepatotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation and by modulating xenobitic metabolizing machinery and SIL seems to be more effective. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Malaysian tualang honey possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we evaluated the effect of tualang honey on early biomarkers of photocarcinogenesis employing PAM212 mouse keratinocyte cell line. Keratinocytes were treated with tualang honey (1.0%, v/v) before a single UVB (150 mJ cm−2) irradiation. We found that the treatment of tualang honey inhibited UVB-induced DNA damage, and enhanced repair of UVB-mediated formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine. Treatment of tualang honey inhibited UVB-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB and degradation of IκBα in murine keratinocyte cell line. The treatment of tualang honey also inhibited UVB-induced inflammatory cytokines and inducible nitric oxide synthase protein expression. Furthermore, the treatment of tualang honey inhibited UVB-induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 production. Taken together, we provide evidence that the treatment of tualang honey to keratinocytes affords substantial protection from the adverse effects of UVB radiation via modulation in early biomarkers of photocarcinogenesis and provide suggestion for its photochemopreventive potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is the second most dangerous disease worldwide which is curable if its diagnosis is done in earlier stages. Even with the rise in cancer diseases, researches have shown that the mortality rate of cancer patients is less. For the treatment of cancer patients, Machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been researched and employed for the early detection of this disease in the past years. Biomedical image processing and detection of data have been used in combination in order to devise new techniques. In this paper, image classification was performed and machine learning algorithms were applied on lung cancer disease dataset to calculate measures such as accuracy, sensitivity, etc. K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), Random forest and Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithms have been used to analyze the initial stage lung cancer by applying these on the lung cancer dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is the second most dangerous disease worldwide which is curable if its diagnosis is done in earlier stages. Even with the rise in cancer diseases, researches have shown that the mortality rate of cancer patients is less. For the treatment of cancer patients, Machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been researched and employed for the early detection of this disease in the past years. Biomedical image processing and detection of data have been used in combination in order to devise new techniques. In this paper, image classification was performed and machine learning algorithms were applied on lung cancer disease dataset to calculate measures such as accuracy, sensitivity, etc. K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), Random forest and Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithms have been used to analyze the initial stage lung cancer by applying these on the lung cancer dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]