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The cotton aphid Aphis gossypii is a major agricultural pest of cotton that causes substantial damage to the crop not only by sucking sap but also through virus transmission. Globally adopted traditional and contemporary approaches to control aphid infestation have certain limitations and are hazardous to human health. RNA interference (RNAi) technology has unfolded its potential as an effective crop protection strategy against various pests. In this study, we adopted plant-mediated RNAi strategy to enhance aphid resistance in cotton by targeting arginine kinase (AK), which is a crucial enzyme responsible for energy homeostasis in insects. We selected a 312bp dsRNA fragment containing eight siRNAs and showing optimum GC content, Hb index, and stable secondary structure based on computational prediction studies. The binary construct expressing dsRNA was used to transform local cotton variety MNH886 and four transgenic lines were obtained in the T1 generation. Out of the four T1 transgenic cotton lines, dsA-7 exhibited the highest aphid mortality (73.3%), whereas, dsA-1, dsA-3 and dsA-6 revealed 60%, 61%, and 66.6% aphid mortality, respectively, in comparison to 13.3% mortality in the mock control cotton line. Moreover, significant knockdown in mRNA expression of AK was observed in aphids fed dsA-7 which was 79%. In comparison, 54%, 47%, and 45% downregulation was recorded in aphids which fed on dsA-6, dsA-3, and dsA-1 transgenic cotton lines, respectively. These results revealed that plant-mediated downregulation of aphid RNA induced significant RNA interference in A. gossypii which resulted in considerable aphid mortality and led to plant protection against aphids.

Abstract In the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) triage, the robustness of machine learning (ML) models is a paramount concern. Ensuring the robustness of ML models faces issues such as model selection, criterion importance, trade-offs, and conflicts in the evaluation and benchmarking of ML models. Furthermore, the development of ML models must contend with two real-time scenarios: normal tests and adversarial attack cases. This study addresses this challenge by integrating three key phases that bridge the domains of machine learning and fuzzy multicriteria decision-making (MCDM). First, the utilized dataset comprises authentic information, encompassing 19 medical and sociodemographic features from 1296 autistic patients who received autism diagnoses via the intelligent triage method. These patients were categorized into one of three triage labels: urgent, moderate, or minor. We employ principal component analysis (PCA) and two algorithms to fuse a large number of dataset features. Second, this fused dataset forms the basis for rigorously testing eight ML models, considering normal and adversarial attack scenarios, and evaluating classifier performance using nine metrics. The third phase developed a robust decision-making framework that encompasses the creation of a decision matrix (DM) and the development of the 2-tuple linguistic Fermatean fuzzy decision by opinion score method (2TLFFDOSM) for benchmarking multiple-ML models from normal and adversarial perspectives, accomplished through individual and external group aggregation of ranks. Our findings highlight the effectiveness of PCA algorithms, yielding 12 principal components with acceptable variance. In the external ranking, logistic regression (LR) emerged as the top-performing ML model in terms of the 2TLFFDOSM score (1.3370). A comparative analysis with five benchmark studies demonstrated the superior performance of our framework across all six checklist comparison points.

Large Language Models (LLMs) have become a hot topic in AI due to their ability to mimic human conversation. This study compares the open artificial intelligence generative pretrained transformer-4 (GPT-4) model, based on the (GPT), and Google's artificial intelligence (AI), which is based on the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) framework in terms of the defined capabilities and the built-in architecture. Both LLMs are prominent in AI applications. First, eight different capabilities were identified to evaluate these models, i.e. translation accuracy, text generation, factuality, creativity, intellect, deception avoidance, sentiment classification, and sarcasm detection. Next, each capability was assessed using instructions. Additionally, a categorized LLM evaluation system has been developed by means of using ten research questions per category based on this paper's main contributions from a prompt engineering perspective. It should be highlighted that GPT-4 and Google AI successfully answered 85 % and 68,7 % of the study prompts, respectively. It has been noted that GPT-4 better understands prompts than Google AI, even with verbal flaws, and tolerates grammatical errors. Moreover, the GPT-4 based approach was more precise, accurate, and succinct than Google AI, which was sometimes verbose and less realistic. While GPT-4 beats Google AI in terms of translation accuracy, text generation, factuality, intellectuality, creativity, and deception avoidance, Google AI outperforms the former when considering sarcasm detection. Both sentiment classification models did work properly. More importantly, a human panel of judges was used to assess and evaluate the model comparisons. Statistical analysis of the judges' ratings revealed more robust results based on examining the specific uses, limitations, and expectations of both GPT-4 and Google AI-based approaches. Finally, the two approaches' transformers, parameter sizes, and attention mechanisms have been examined.

Abstract Green tea, a widely consumed beverage with a long history of traditional use has garned renewed scientific interest due to its potential health benefits. Unlike other tea types, green tea undergoes minimal oxidation and thus preserving its potent catechins and antioxidant properties. This review devels into the fascinating chemistry of green tea, exploring how processing steps like fixation and rolling, shape its distinct profile. We will further explore the potential health benefits associated with green tea consumption, acknowledging the existing research focus on tea polyphenols and aiming to provide a broader perspective on its potential health impact. Finally, the review examines the emerging application of green tea extract fortification in food matrices. This innovative approach offers exciting possibilities for enhancing food stability and sensory appeal while potentially contributing to a range of health benefits.

This research investigates the radioactivity levels of various rock types used in construction within the Kurdistan region and assesses their potential impact on human health, the measurements were performed using an HPGe gamma-ray spectrometer. The measured activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K radionuclides varied from ND (Chromitite) to 78.68 ± 4.54 Bq/kg (Marly Limestone), ND (Chromitite) to 109.52 ± 10.23 Bq/kg (Mudstone), and ND (Chromitite) to 2973.6 ± 152.1 Bq/kg (Claystone), respectively. The obtained Raeq values for all rock samples are well below the UNSCEAR, 2008 recommended value of 370 Bq/kg. 71.43% of DR, 66.66% of Eout, 71.43% of Ein, 100% of Hinand Hout, 71.43% of ELCRout, 71.43% of ELCRin, and 100% of activity utilization index of the rock samples are well below the recommended values declared by UNSCEAR, 2008. The radioactivity level of rock types that are prepared as building materials should be assessed by the producers and considered by the users to reduce the overall cancer risk. The outcomes of the RESRAD-BUILD computer code indicate that the maximum external and inhalation doses were calculated to be 19.7 and 0.105 μSv for R7 and R1 samples, respectively, over a period of 70 years.

Educational Data Mining (EDM) applies advanced data mining techniques to analyse data from educational settings, traditionally aimed at improving student performance. However, EDM’s potential extends to enhancing administrative functions in educational organisations. This systematisation of knowledge (SoK) explores the use of EDM in organisational administration, examining peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of its impact. This review highlights how EDM can revolutionise decision-making processes, supporting data-driven strategies that enhance administrative efficiency. It outlines key data mining techniques used in tasks like resource allocation, staff evaluation, and institutional planning. Challenges related to EDM implementation, such as data privacy, system integration, and the need for specialised skills, are also discussed. While EDM offers benefits like increased efficiency and informed decision-making, this review notes potential risks, including over-reliance on data and misinterpretation. The role of EDM in developing robust administrative frameworks that align with organisational goals is also explored. This study provides a critical overview of the existing literature and identifies areas for future research, offering insights to optimise educational administration through effective EDM use and highlighting its growing significance in shaping the future of educational organisations.

الملخص: أهداف البحث: هدفت هذه الدراسة إلى استكشاف وتحليل الملامح الوبائية ورصد واستجابة كوفيد-19، وديناميكيات انتقالها وتشكل المجموعات. طرق البحث: تحليل استرجاعي لبيانات الرصد، بما في ذلك تتبع الاتصال، وعوامل الخطر، والمعلومات السريرية. أجريت تحليلات الانحدار اللوجستية الثنائية لتقييم احتمالات القبول، وتشكل المجموعات، وكونه حالة رئيسية. تم توضيح المجموعات باستخدام أنظمة البيانات الجغرافية وتحليل الشبكات وبرامج التصور. النتائج: تم تشخيص ١١٠٠ حالة إصابة بفيروس كوفيد-١٩ في الفترة من ٢٠ مارس إلى ٧ يونيو ٢٠٢٠، وكانت ١٤٤ حالة منها (١٣,١٪) بدون أعراض. كانت المدة المتوسطة من بدء الأعراض حتى القبول في المستشفى ٧ أيام (٤,٥ - ١٠)، ومدة الأعراض نفسها كانت ٥ أيام (٣ - ٩). تم تحديد 89 مجموعة تحتوي على ٧٣٦ مريضا. وتم تمييز ثلاث مراحل توضح إجراءات الرصد والسيطرة. بدأت المجموعات في المرحلة الثانية وزادت وضوحا في المرحلة الثالثة. المرضى الذين تجاوزوا سن ٥٠ عاما وأولئك الذين يعانون من الحمى لديهم فرصة أكبر للقبول في المستشفى، بنسبة ١٢,٨٥ (٩٥٪ م.م. ٥,١٣ – ٣٢,١٩) و ٢,٥٣ (٩٥٪ م.م. ١,٢٤ – ٥,١٧) على التوالي. وقد لوحظ تشكل المجموعات بين الإناث والمرضى الذين لم يظهروا أعراضا وبين سكان ولاية عوابي، بنسب ٢,٣ (٩٥٪ م.م. ١,٧ – ٣,١) و ٦,٣٩ (٩٥٪ م.م. ٢,٣٣ – ١٧,٢) و ٣,٥٤ (٩٥٪ م.م. ٢,٠٦ – ٦,٠٧) على التوالي. وكان لدى المرضى العاملين في قطاعات الشرطة والدفاع فرصة أعلى لكونهم حالة رئيسية، بنسبة ٧,٨٨ (٩٥٪ م.م. ٣,٣٥ – ١٨,٥٢). الاستنتاجات: يجب دعم التدخلات القائمة على الحالات من خلال التدابير الموسعة على مستوى السكان - خاصة قيود الحركة. يعد إنشاء فرق الوقاية أو وحدات المنطقة، أو من خلال الرعاية الأولية أمرا حاسما للسيطرة على الأوبئة المستقبلية. يجب أن تكون الوقاية دائما أولوية للفئات السكانية الضعيفة. Abstract: Objectives: This study was aimed at exploring and analyzing the epidemiological profile, surveillance, and response to COVID-19, including transmission dynamics and cluster formation. Methodology: This was a retrospective analysis of surveillance data, including contact tracing, risk factors, and clinical information. Binary logistic regressions were used to assess the likelihood of admission, cluster formation, and of each individual being an index patient. Clusters were demonstrated through geographic data systems, network analysis, and visualization software. Results: A total of 1100 COVID-19 cases were diagnosed from 20 March to 7 June 2020, of which 144 (13.1%) were asymptomatic. The median time from symptom onset to admission was 7 days (IQR, 4.5–10), and the median symptom duration was 5 days (IQR, 3–9). Eighty-nine clusters containing 736 patients were identified. The surveillance and control actions were divided into three phases. Clusters began to form in phase 2 and became more pronounced in phase 3. Patients ≥50 years of age and patients presenting with fever had relatively higher odds of admission: OR = 12.85 (95% CI 5.13–32.19) and 2.53 (95% CI 1.24–5.17), respectively. Cluster formation was observed among females, asymptomatic patients, and people living in Awabi: OR = 2.3 (95% CI 1.7–3.1), 6.39 (95% CI 2.33–17.2), and 3.54 (95% CI 2.06–6.07), respectively. Patients working in the police and defense sectors had higher odds of being an index patient: OR = 7.88 (95% CI 3.35–18.52). Conclusion: Case-based interventions should be supported by population-wide measures, particularly movement restrictions. Establishing prevention teams or district units, or primary care will be crucial for the control of future pandemics. Prevention should always be prioritized for vulnerable populations.

Abdulrahman Yousef Alhabeeb,1,2 Ahmed O Idrees,2,3 Thamer S Alhowaish,2,4 Moustafa S Alhamadh,1,2 Emad Masudi,1,2 Abdullah Alanazi,1,2 Wazzan Aljuhani2,3 1College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 2King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Orthopedic Surgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard - Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 4Division of Neurology, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of the National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Thamer S Alhowaish, Email thamersa18@gmail.comIntroduction: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, slow-growing, and locally aggressive soft tissue tumor with a high recurrence rate and metastatic potential, even with the proper treatment.Methods: This was a retrospective (case series) study that took place at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to determine the outcomes of and appropriate margin excision for DFSP. All patients who were diagnosed with DFSP from 2016 to 2021 were included. The following variables were assessed: demographics, tumor characteristics, management options, and most importantly, whether patients were managed with an oncology-oriented approach or a non-oncology-oriented approach.Results: There were a total of seventeen patients with DFSP, four of whom had fibrosarcomatous differentiation (FS-DFSP). The majority (N = 13, 76.5%) of the patients were females. The lower extremities and back were the most common locations for DFSP, accounting for 47.1% and 23.5%, respectively. Only two (11.76%) patients had metastatic disease, one of whom had FS-DFSP. The minimum resection margin was 3 cm, and the maximum was 5 cm. Thirteen (76.47%) patients were managed with an oncology-oriented approach (Group I), 23% of whom had post-excision positive margins. However, all patients who were managed with a non-oncology-oriented approach (Group II) had positive margins post-excision. More than three-quarters (76.9%) of group I underwent wide resection. Split-thickness skin grafting and primary closure were the most commonly used reconstruction methods in groups I and II, respectively. The mean planned margins in groups I and II were 3.9 cm and 1.7 cm, respectively.Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that a planned wide-margin excision with a minimum safe margin of 3– 5 cm should be implemented to reduce the recurrence, metastasis, and need for further surgeries in patients with DFSP.Keywords: dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, surgical oncology, management, approach

Sugarcane has been grown all around the world to meet sugar demands for industrial sector. The current sugar recovery percentage in sugarcane cultivars is dismally low which demands scientific efforts for improvements. Multiple approaches were adopted to enhance sugar contents in commercial sugarcane plants in contrast to conventional plant breeding methods. The exploitation of biotechnological methods and exploration of isomaltulose synthetic genes presented a promising solution to increase the existing low level of sugar recovery percentage in Saccharum officinarum L. Isomaltulose synthase gene II was employed and integrated into plant expression vector driven under the leaf and stem specific promoters terminated by nopaline synthase gene in a cloning strategy shown in the present study. Three gene constructs were developed in various combinations driven under promoters Zea mays ubiquitin and Cestrum Yellow Leaf Curl virus in the single and double combined stacked system. The transformation was executed in multiple formats with single transformed events, double promoter transformation events and triple construct stacked promoters in sugarcane induced calli via the particle gene gun. The transformation of ImSyGII in sugarcane genotype HSF-240 was confirmed by molecular gene analysis while expression quantification was determined through Real Time PCR. Furthermore, HPLC was also done to harvest the increased amounts of Isomaltulose in transgenic sugarcane juice. The present work upheld the enhanced ImSyGII expression in leaves owing to the exploitation of ubiquitin, while the Cestrum Yellow Leaf Curl virus promoter enhanced gene expression in sugarcane stems. The employment of three gene constructs collectively produced elite sugar lines producing more than 78% enhancements in whole sugar recovery percentage. The mature internode proved highly efficient and receptive regarding the production of isomaltulose. Quantifications and sugar contents evaluations upheld an increased Brix ratio of transgenic sugarcane lines than control lines.

This study aims to recognize, categorize, and assess the errors in English writing done by Kurdish post-graduate learners enrolled at Language Center (LC) of the University of Zakho, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This is conducted via applying the error analysis technique, which is considered a vital part of EFL research. By using a quantitative and qualitative method, the researchers limited their literature review and data analysis to the writing errors by several scholars from various angles, excluding types of writing errors (i.e., interlingual and intralingual errors are the two main classifications of errors.) according to Brown (2000). Thirty-two (32) postgraduate students from different disciplines took part in this study. The major data collection tool was the students' answer sheets from the elementary and pre-intermediate academic English curriculum at different English language levels (cutting edge). The current study seeks to address the type of writing errors and how frequently such writing errors occur in Kurdish EFL students’ writing. The researchers implemented process of coding for finding out writing errors, and tabulated their frequencies and percentages on bar charts. According to the findings of this study, the participants made fourteen different types of writing errors: grammar, punctuation, spelling, capitalization, literal translation, misuse of verbs, articles, unnecessary prepositions, misuse of pronouns, subject-verb agreement, misuse of prepositions, apostrophes, misuse of conjunctions and sing of wordiness. The findings of this study also revealed that the most common errors committed by the Kurdish learners were in grammar, punctuation, using of wordiness, spelling, and capitalization. Such results are important for EFL teachers because they encourage them to pay careful attention to their students' writing errors and utilize them as pedagogical guidelines while designing activities.

Protein is a vital nutrient required for growth and development of human population. It is well recognised that a significant cause of malnutrition is a lack of protein in human diet. Plant based proteins are becoming an excellent substitute for meat proteins in the development of functional foods at a fair price. When it comes to plant-based sources of high-quality protein, rice is regarded as a useful option because of its hypoallergenic properties, adequate amino acid balance, and high protein content. Therefore, protein concentrates were obtained from plain (SR-4, K-39), aromatic (Mushq Budij) and pigmented (Zhag) rice cultivars of Kashmir. Significant (p

Protein was isolated by isoelectric precipitation from basil seeds (after mucilage and oil extraction) and investigated for its physicochemical and functional properties. The protein content of basil seed protein isolate (BPI) was 89.08%. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed presence of essential amino acids. Glutamic acid (17.40%), threonine (13.65%), and arginine (11.32%) were abundant. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE) analysis showed molecular weights in the range of 11.5 to 77.6 kDa. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of basil seed protein isolate revealed a high denaturation temperature (95.34 °C). The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated presence of amide I, II, and III groups. Characteristic peaks for β- sheet conformation were also observed. Results showed that BPI had high emulsifying ability index (298.4 m2/g) at pH 10. Solubility was lowest at pH 9 (10.69%). Functional properties such as protein solubility, foaming, and emulsification properties were high at pH 10. An increasing trend was observed from pH 2 to 5. High bulk density (0.799 g/ mL) and low water absorption capacity (0.51 g/ g) was observed.

Cooked rice has high starch digestibility. Prolonged and excess consumption of polished rice has been associated with the incidence of diabetes amongst rice eating populations. Therefore, researchers are working on extensively to devise strategies that could retard digestion of cooked rice. Keeping this fact into consideration, four rice cultivars (SR-4, K-39, Mushq Budij and Zhag) grown in Kashmir were milled and cooked with varying concentrations (0, 2.5 and 5.0% w/w, rice basis) of karaya gum at different rice-water ratios (1:10 and 1:1.8). The prepared rice samples were evaluated for cooking and sensory properties, in-vitro digestibility and structural characteristics. Cooking of rice with karaya gum (2.5–5.0%) at large rice-water ratio (1:10) increased minimum cooking time (19.0–25.0 min) and water uptake ratio (3.23–4.69) of samples. Also, rice cooked in excess water had better sensory acceptability scores than those cooked in less water. At large rice-water ratio, Zhag rice prepared with karaya gum (2.5%) had acceptable hardness and flavour scores. With increase in gum concentration, the equilibrium starch hydrolysis percentage (C∞) and estimated glycemic index (eGI) scores of cooked rice decreased, irrespective of cultivars and rice-water ratio. Maximum reduction in C∞ was observed for Mushq Budij rice (85.20%) prepared with karaya gum (5.0%) at large rice-water ratio (1:10). Fourier transform infrared spectra of gum cooked rice samples revealed shifting of peak at 3250.0 cm−1 to higher intensities indicating hydrogen bonding interaction of starch and gum. From X-ray diffraction studies, the highest relative crystallinity (16.20%) was observed for rice prepared with 5.0% gum concentration. Therefore, cooking of rice with karaya gum at large rice–water ratio can be considered to slow down starch hydrolysis process of cooked rice.

The present investigation was aimed to study functional properties, antioxidant activity and in-vitro digestibility characteristics of brown and polished flours obtained from four rice cultivars (SR-4, K-39, Mushq Budij and Zhag) of Kashmir. Brown rice flours had higher total dietary fibre (3.08%–3.68%), oil absorption (116.0%–139.0%), emulsion capacity (4.78%–9.52%), emulsion stability (87.46%–99.93%) and resistant starch content (6.80%–9.00%) than polished flours. However, polished flours presented greater water absorption (102.0%–122.0%), foaming capacity (8.00%–13.63%), apparent amylose (19.16%–22.62%), peak (2260.0–2408.0 cP), trough (1372.0–1589.0 cP) and breakdown (714.0–978.0 cP) viscosities than their brown counterparts. Brown rice flours depicted highest total phenolic content (4.40–6.40 mg GAE/g) and inhibition of lipid peroxidation (19.50%–33.20%). However, equilibrium starch hydrolysis percentage (C∞) and predicted glycemic index of brown rice flours were lower than their polished counterparts. Among rice cultivars, brown Zhag flour had the highest total dietary fibre (3.68%), emulsion capacity (9.52%), emulsion stability (99.93%), resistant starch (9.00%), DPPH radical scavenging activity (85.45%) and inhibition of lipid peroxidation (33.20%), respectively. Emulsion capacity and emulsion stability were positively correlated with protein content of rice flours. However, peak, trough, breakdown and setback viscosities were negatively correlated with protein and fat contents of rice flour. The present investigation will be helpful in identifying nutritive role of rice flours from studied cultivars in human diet.

Virtual globes render large-scale real-world earth’s surface in real-time for geographic information visualization. Modern GPUs have introduced hardware tessellation features for high-performance rendering. Patch-based terrain rendering using hardware tessellation introduces cracks and swimming artifacts during navigation. Hardware tessellation-based terrain rendering methods limit the tessellation factors to power-of-two and render patches with discrete-level-of-detail (DLOD). We present a novel method for adaptive terrain rendering using tessellation codes. In the proposed method, we present novel memory-efficient bit-field-based tessellation codes to encode patch Level-of-detail (LOD). The encoding scheme enabled patch rendering with Continuous-level-of-detail (CLOD) on tessellation hardware. The view-dependent simplification algorithm simplifies and encodes the patch’s Level-of-detail (LOD) in tessellation codes. The proposed method, based on tessellation codes, tessellates patches as uniformly spaced vertices grid. A novel relocation algorithm, based on tessellation codes, relocates uniformly spaced vertices to construct an encoded simplified vertices grid to avoid boundary cracks and swimming artifacts. The tessellation codes consumed 28 kilobytes of memory for a patch size of 65. The proposed method rendered 2.5 million triangles with a frame rate of 570 frames-per second for an ultra-HD display. The proposed method achieved a high simplification and rendering rate with low computational and memory usage as compared to state-of-the-art methods.

Abstract Enhancement of sugar contents and yielding healthful sugar products from sugarcane demand high profile scientific strategies. Previous efforts to foster manipulation in metabolic pathways or triggering sugar production through combating abiotic stresses fail to yield high sugar recovery in Saccharum officinarum L. Novel sucrose isomers trehalulose (TH) and isomaltulose (IM) are naturally manufactured in microbial sources. In pursuance of novel scientific methodology, codon optimized sucrose isomerase gene, Trehalulose synthase gene II(CEMB-SIG2) cloned under dual combined stem specific constitutive promoters in pCAMBIA1301 expression vector integrated with Vacuole targeted signal peptide (VTS) to concentrate gene product into the vacuole. The resultant mRNA expression obtained by Real Time PCR validated extremely increased transgene expression in sugarcane culms than leaf tissues. Overall sugar estimation from transgenic sugarcane lines was executed through refractometer. HPLC based quantifications of Trehalulose (TH) alongside different internodes of transgenic sugarcane confirmed the enhancement of boosted sugar concentrations in mature sugarcane culms. Trehalulose synthase gene II receptive sugarcane lines indicated the unprecedented impressions of duly combined constitutive stem regulated promoters. Transgenic sugarcane lines produce highest sugar recovery percentages, 14.9% as compared to control lines (8.5%). The increased sugar recovery percentage in transgenic sugarcane validated the utmost performance and expression of ThSyGII gene .High Profile Liquid chromatography based sugar contents estimation of Trehalulose (TH) and Isomaltulose (IM) yielded unprecedented improvement in the whole sugar recovery percentage as compared to control lines.⁠

Summary: Background: The hormonal profile varies considerably with age, gender, ethnicity, diet or physiological state of an individual. Limited population-specific studies have studied the variations in hormonal parameters among apparently healthy women. We aimed to analyse the biological reference interval for various hormonal parameters in the reproductive-aged healthy Indian women. Methods: Out of 3877 participants that were clinically evaluated, 1441 subjects were subjected to laboratory investigations. All participants underwent a detailed clinical, biochemical and hormonal profiling. The hormone analysis was carried out at a single centre using a uniform methodology. Among the participants evaluated for biochemical and hormonal parameters, subjects that presented any abnormal profile or had incomplete investigations (n = 593) were excluded for further analysis. Findings: The mean age (±SD) of the subjects retained in the final analysis (n = 848) was 29.9 (±6.3) years. In the present study, the biological reference interval (2.5th–97.5th centile) observed were: serum T4: μg/dL (5.23–12.31), TSH: μg/mL (0.52–4.16) and serum prolactin: ng/mL (5.13–37.35), LH: mIU/mL (2.75–20.68), FSH: mIU/mL 2.59–15.12), serum total testosterone: ng/mL (0.06–0.68), fasting insulin: mIU/mL (1.92–39.72), morning cortisol: μg/dL (4.71–19.64), DHEAS:μg/dL (50.61–342.6) and SHBG: nmol/L (21.37–117.54). Unlike T4, TSH, LH, and E2, the biological reference interval for prolactin, FSH, testosterone, C-peptide insulin and DHEAS varied when the subjects were stratified by age (p

Setting up of non-standard unit operations could result in cracking of rice grains during milling, leading to accumulation of broken rice and generation of inferior quality product. Therefore, it is very much important to study physical properties of rice for designing of appropriate rice processing machinery that would minimise post-harvest losses during milling operation. Hence, the present investigation was aimed to study physical properties of four rice cultivars (SR-4, K-39, Mushq Budij and pigmented) grown in Kashmir. Brown and polished rice variants of the four cultivars were studied for grain dimensions, equivalent diameter (ED), geometric mean diameter (GMD), arithmetic mean diameter (AMD), volume, surface area, sphericity, aspect ratio, bulk density (BD), true density (TD), porosity, thousand kernel weight, static coefficient of friction and colour. In general, polishing of rice led to significant (p

Abstract RNA interference (RNAi) triggered by exogenous double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is a powerful tool to knockdown genetic targets crucial for the growth and development of agriculturally important insect pests. Helicoverpa armigera is a pest feeding on more than 30 economically important crops worldwide and a major threat. Resistance to insecticides and Bt toxins has been gradually increasing in the field. RNAi-mediated knockdown of H. armigera genes by producing dsRNAs homologous to genetic targets in bacteria and plants has a high potential for insect management to decrease agricultural loss. The acetylcholinesterase (AChE), ecdysone receptor (EcR) and v-ATPase-A (vAA) genes were selected as genetic targets. Fragments comprising a coding sequence of 68% than the control plants 17%, recorded ten days post-feeding and significant resistance in transgenic (transient) plants was observed. Moreover, larval lethality and molting defects were observed in larva fed on potato plants expressing dsRNA specific to EcR. Analysis of transcript levels by quantitative RT–PCR revealed that larval mortality was attributable to the knockdown of genetic targets by RNAi. The results demonstrated that down-regulation of H. armigera genes involved in ATP hydrolysis, transcriptional stimulation of development genes and neural conduction has aptitude as a bioinsecticide to control H. armigera population sizes and therefore decreases crop loss.

Abstract Background This study was carried out to identify and explore the difference in coping strategies for dealing with stress; adopted by medical residents in surgical and nonsurgical specialties. Methods A mixed methods approach, was chosen for this study. In phase one (quantitative); data were collected by a web-based survey, using a structured questionnaire. This survey was carried out in five major teaching hospitals of Rawalpindi & Muzaffarabad in 2020. Purposive sampling was done and data were analysed using SPSS, recording frequencies and major trends. In phase two (qualitative); six focus group discussions were carried out with 24 participants, using semi-structured questions and prompts. Convenient sampling was done from the cohort of phase 1. These focus group discussions, explored the various coping strategies adopted by medical residents. Later, the data were analysed manually for development of codes, sub-themes and themes. Results Out of 250 (100%) participants, 146 (58%) participants responded to the online survey. Surgical residents had a higher response rate (60%, n = 87) than nonsurgical residents. Moreover, female participation (54%, n = 79) was greater than male participation (46%, n = 67). The Mann-Whitney U test was statistically significant only for seeking medical advice to cope with stress (P = .029). There was no statistically significant difference found between the coping strategies, employed by medical residents. In focus group discussions, female involvement was more (58% n = 14) than their counterparts. Four main themes were developed after data analysis: self-regulation, tailor-made strategies, educational focus and support system. Finally, minor differences were obtained qualitatively; like, socializing is preferred by surgical residents whereas, spiritualism is chosen by nonsurgical residents. Conclusion Quantitatively, no significant differences were found between the coping strategies of medical residents, against work-related stress. However, minor differences were obtained qualitatively due to difference in job demands and level of burnout between these two specialities.

Analysing and understanding donor behaviour in nonprofit organisations (NPOs) is challenging due to the lack of human and technical resources. Machine learning (ML) techniques can analyse and understand donor behaviour at a certain level; however, it remains to be seen how to build and design an artificial-intelligence-enabled decision-support system (AI-enabled DSS) to analyse donor behaviour. Thus, this paper proposes an AI-enabled DSS conceptual design to analyse donor behaviour in NPOs. A conceptual design is created following a design science research approach to evaluate an AI-enabled DSS’s initial DPs and features to analyse donor behaviour in NPOs. The evaluation process of the conceptual design applied formative assessment by conducting interviews with stakeholders from NPOs. The interviews were conducted using the Appreciative Inquiry framework to facilitate the process of interviews. The evaluation of the conceptual design results led to the recommendation for efficiency, effectiveness, flexibility, and usability in the requirements of the AI-enabled DSS. This research contributes to the design knowledge base of AI-enabled DSSs for analysing donor behaviour in NPOs. Future research will combine theoretical components to introduce a practical AI-enabled DSS for analysing donor behaviour in NPOs. This research is limited to such an analysis of donors who donate money or volunteer time for NPOs.

RNAi-based insecticides for crop protection have witnessed rapid improvement over the years. However, their potential to efficiently control maize stem borer (Chilo partellus) pests has remained underexplored. In this study, double-stranded C. partellus chitinase (dsCHI) toxicity was investigated in C. partellus larvae. Furthermore, we developed transgenic maize lines expressing dsRNA targeted against C. partellus chitinase transcripts and performed detached leaf insect feeding bioassays. Our results revealed that C. partellus chitinase transcript expression was significantly downregulated by 57% and 82% in the larvae. Larvae exhibited various phenotypic distortion levels across developmental stages, and 53% mortality occurred in transgenic fed larvae compared to those fed on nontransgenic leaves. In conclusion, we have identified the C. partellus chitinase gene as a potential target for RNAi-mediated control and demonstrated that oral delivery via bacteria and plant-mediated delivery are viable means of achieving C. partellus RNAi-mediated control.

Introduction: Hereditary pancreatitis (HP) is a rare debilitating disease with incompletely understood etio-pathophysiology. The reduced penetrance of genes such as PRSS1 associated with hereditary pancreatitis indicates a role for novel inherited factors.Methods: We performed whole-exome sequencing of three affected members of an Indian family (Father, Son, and Daughter) with chronic pancreatitis and compared variants with those seen in the unaffected mother.Results: We identified a novel frameshift mutation in exon 11 of TRPV6 (c.1474_1475delGT; p.V492Tfs*136), a calcium channel, in the patients. Functional characterization of this mutant TRPV6 following heterologous expression revealed that it was defective in calcium uptake. Induction of pancreatitis in mice induced Trpv6 expression, indicating that higher expression levels of the mutant protein and consequent dysregulation of calcium levels in patients with chronic pancreatitis could aggravate the disease.Discussion: We report a novel frameshift mutation in TRPV6 in an Indian family with HP that renders the mutant protein inactive. Our results emphasize the need to expand the list of genes used currently for evaluating patients with hereditary pancreatitis.

Barnyard(Echinochloautilis),Finger (Eleusinecoracana), Foxtail (Setaria italic), Kodo (Paspalumsetaceum) Little (Panicum sumatrense),Pearl (Pennisetumglaucum), and Proso(Penicummiliaceum) millets are staple foods for Indian and African diets.Post harvest handling primarily the storage conditions during rainy season leads to significant losses of millets in Asia and Africa.Poor storage conditions during rainy seasons lead to germination and fungal growth due to poor storage infrastructure facilities in Asia and Africa. To prevent food losses and to understand the irradiation influence on biopolymer functionality, the millets were irradiated at a dosage of 2.5 and 5 kGy at 12% and 14% moisture contents and milled to prepare the flour.The flour was analysed for microbial count and changes in structural and functional properties to understand the implications on end-use. Post irradiation, oil absorption, emulsion capacity, and water absorption decreased significantly (p≤0.05), while foaming capacity, emulsion stability, and foaming stability increased. Hunter color values L*, a*, and b* showed different trends with an increase in dosage of irradiation.FTIR studies revealed that there were shifts in the functional groups, primarily a decrease in the intensities of O-H, C-H, and O=C stretches and the bending mode of water.Scanning electron microscopy at 2500x magnification revealed different morphological shapes from spherical, polygonal, and a few spherical granules. In our studies we observed that gamma irradiation decreases the nicrobial count and at the same time deactivates the germinating enzymes.Therefore the irradiation treatment is an affordable and effective methodology to prevent post harvest losses of millets In general, irradiation influenced the millet flour functionality and a decrease in microbial with irradiation , therefore,irradiation can help prevent post-harvestmillet lossesin developing nations. Studies on controlled irradiation can help improve the flour properties for better end use

Abstract Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is a cash crop grown commercially for its higher amounts of sucrose, stored within the mature internodes of the stem. Numerous studies have been done for the resistance development against biotic and abiotic stresses to save the sucrose yields. Quality and yield of sugarcane production is always threatened by the damages of cane borers and weeds. In current study two problems were better addressed through the genetic modification of sugarcane for provision of resistance against insects and weedicide via the expression of two modified cane borer resistant CEMB-Cry1Ac (1.8 kb), CEMB-Cry2A (1.9 kb) and one glyphosate tolerant CEMB-GTGene (1.4 kb) genes, driven by maize Ubiquitin Promoter and nos terminator. Insect Bio-toxicity assays were carried out for the assessment of Cry proteins through mortality percent of shoot borer Chilo infuscatellus at 2nd instar larvae stage. During V0, V1 and V2 generations young leaves from the transgenic sugarcane plants were collected at plant age of 20, 40, 60, 80 days and fed to the Chilo infuscatellus larvae. Up to 100% mortality of Chilo infuscatellus from 80 days old transgenic plants of V2 generation indicated that these transgenic plants were highly resistant against shoot borer and the gene expression level is sufficient to provide complete resistance against target pests. Glyphosate spray assay was carried out for complete removal of weeds. In V1-generation, 70–76% transgenic sugarcane plants were found tolerant against glyphosate spray (3000 mL/ha) under field conditions. While in V2-generation, the replicates of five selected lines 4L/2, 5L/5, 6L/5, L8/4, and L9/6 were found 100% tolerant against 3000 mL/ha glyphosate spray. It is evident from current study that CEMB-GTGene, CEMB-Cry1Ac and CEMB-Cry2A genes expression in sugarcane variety CPF-246 showed an efficient resistance against cane borers (Chilo infuscatellus) and was also highly tolerant against glyphosate spray. The selected transgenic sugarcane lines showed sustainable resistance against cane borer and glyphosate spray can be further exploited at farmer’s field level after fulfilling the biosafety requirements to boost the sugarcane production in the country.

Five sites were chosen to the north of Babil Governorate in order to identify the limnological features and the impact of the Hindiya Dam during 2019. Site2 was located near the dam to reflect the ecological features of this site, whereas other sites, S1 was located at the upstream of the dam as a control site. Moreover, the two other sites S3 and S4 were located down the dam. The results of the study showed a close correlation between air and water temperature at all sites. Also there were significant differences in average of thirteen out of eighteen water parameters.Water temperature, total alkalinity, bicarbonate, DO, POS, TH and Mg+2 ions decreased from 22.76˚C, 203.33 mg/L, 146.75 mg/L, 8.8 mg/L, 100.023%, 438 mg/L, 35.55mg/L, respectively on S2 to 22.66 ˚C, 200.28 mg/L, 145.58 mg/L, 8.35 mg/L, 95.45%, 422.66 mg/L, 28.81 mg/L, respectively at site below the dam. While, turbidity, TSS, Ca+2, SO2+4, NO3-2 and PO4-2 increased from 13.32 NTU, 23.08 mg/L, 116.89 mg/L, 107.5 mg/L, 1.027 mg/L and 0.019 mg/L, respectively on S2 to 26.574 NTU, 26.83 mg/L, 119.23 mg/L, 137.5 mg/L, 1.145 mg/L and 0.032 mg/L, respectively at the site below the dam. However, no apparent dam effect was reported in EC, S, TDS, pH values at Euphrates River. No significant differences of all characteristics were found among sites except, turbidity, TSS, Mg+2, SO+4 and PO4-2. It can be considered that the Euphrates River is very hard, oligohaline, slightly alkaline, well ventilated and clear to turbid. In addition, the turbidity and TSS values exceeded permissible limits of water quality for aquatic life in most samples especially in site below the dam. However, the river was considered by BOD5 to be doubtful in its cleanliness water. Calcium, magnesium, nitrate and phosphate values in this study were within permissible limits.

Scope and application: The present review focuses on the innovative extraction and encapsulation methods of the phytochemical constituents from various parts of saffron plant (stigma, tepals and corm) and their potential applications in food, nutraceuticals and drug formulations.Background: The phytochemistry of the saffron plant shows that it is a bioactive powerhouse rich in apocarotenoids, anthocyanins, flavonoids and traces of B1 and B2 vitamins. The parts of the saffron plant, stigma, tepals and corm are rich in apocaroteniods, anthocyanidins, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The purity, stability, applications and target delivery of bioactive compounds are all influenced by the extraction and encapsulation process.Key findings and conclusion: Several studies have been conducted for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of bioactive components present in saffron plant, and it has been found that all the parts of the plant are rich in bioactive compounds. The bioactive compounds were extracted by several advanced methods for increased yield and purity, and it was found that Supercritical fluid extraction (SC-CO2), Microwave assisted extraction (MAE), Pulsed electric field (PEF) and High hydrostatic pressure extraction (HHPE) methods resulted in a broad range of bioactives from stigma part as compared to other extraction methods. The stability, bioavailability and target delivery of bioactives present in stigma and petals of saffron plant are studied by several encapsulation techniques. Various researchers have also investigated the food and pharmaceutical uses of bioactive components extracted from the saffron plant. However, extraction, characterization and utilization of bioactive components from saffron floral biomass, including petals and corm parts, by techniques like SC-CO2, PEF and Emulsion liquid membrane extraction (ELM) are yet to be investigated.

In this study, protein was extracted from the apple seed flour using alkali-acid precipitation method. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of ultrasonication on structural and techno-functional properties of apple seed protein. Both native (N-protein) and ultra-sonicated protein (US-protein) were characterized for size, zeta potential, structure, protein pattern, crystallinity, thermal stability and functional properties. The results revealed that the hydrodynamic diameter of N-protein and US-protein was 1.2 µm and 484 nm while zeta potential was −11 and −19 mV, respectively. Fourier transform infrared-spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis showed change in the conformational characteristics and functional groups of proteins after nano-reduction. SEM revealed change in the surface morphology of protein molecule upon ultrasonication. Differential scanning calorimetry showed decreased denaturation temperature for US-protein compared to N-protein . SDS-PAGE depicted no change in protein pattern upon ultrasonication. Ultrasonicated protein exhibited increased functional properties like emulsification, foaming, hydrophobicity and oil absorbing properties and hence can be efficiently used as functional ingredient in food and nutraceutical industry.

Encapsulation is a versatile technique used to protect sensitive bioactive compounds under gastrointestinal conditions. In this study, nanoencapsulation of chlorogenic acid into the apple seed protein matrix was performed using the green technique ultrasonication to protect it from harsh gastric conditions and increase its biological activity and bioavailability upon digestion. Both nano (Nano-Chl) and native capsules (NT-Chl) were characterised by particle size, charge, structure, and morphology. The encapsulation efficiency, release behaviour, antioxidant and antidiabetic properties were also evaluated. The experimental results show that the particle size of the NT-Chl and Nano-Chl was found in the range of 1.4 µm to 708 nm. The encapsulation efficiency was found to be 69% and 80% for NT-Chl and Nano-Chl, respectively. Furthermore, an in vitro digestion study revealed that Nano-Chl showed controlled-release behaviour under simulated intestinal conditions in comparison to NT-Chl. Moreover, Nano-Chl showed enhanced antioxidant and antidiabetic activity in comparison to NT-Chl after simulated digestion. It was concluded that the protein from apple seeds could be utilised as a functional ingredient itself or as a wall material for the encapsulation of sensitive bioactive compounds. Furthermore, these encapsulated particles can be fortified into different food formulations for the development of functional food.

Background Intravenous alteplase improves outcome after acute ischemic stroke without a benefit in 90‐day mortality. There are limited data on whether alteplase is associated with reduced mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF)‐related ischemic stroke whose mortality rate is relatively high. We sought to determine the association of alteplase with hemorrhagic transformation and mortality in patients with AF. Methods and Results We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke between 2015 and 2018 diagnosed with AF included in the IAC (Initiation of Anticoagulation After Cardioembolic Stroke) study, which pooled data from stroke registries at 8 comprehensive stroke centers across the United States. For our primary analysis, we included patients who did not undergo mechanical thrombectomy (MT), and secondary analyses included patients who underwent MT. We used binary logistic regression to determine whether alteplase use was associated with risk of hemorrhagic transformation and 90‐day mortality. There were 1889 patients (90.6%) who had 90‐day follow‐up data available for analyses and were included; 1367 patients (72.4%) did not receive MT, and 522 patients (27.6%) received MT. In our primary analyses we found that alteplase use was independently associated with an increased risk for hemorrhagic transformation (odds ratio [OR], 2.23; 95% CI, 1.57–3.17) but reduced risk of 90‐day mortality (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.39–0.87). Among patients undergoing MT, alteplase use was not associated with a significant reduction in 90‐day mortality (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.45–1.04). Conclusions Alteplase reduced 90‐day mortality of patients with acute ischemic stroke with AF not undergoing MT. Further study is required to assess the efficacy of alteplase in patients with AF undergoing MT.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), an important food crop in the world, is susceptible to many fungal pathogens including Alternaria solani and Fusarium oxysporum causing Fusarium wilt and early blight diseases. Mycoparasitic fungi like Trichoderma encode chitinases, cell wall degrading enzymes, with high antifungal activity against a wide range of phytopathogenic fungi. In this study, a binary vector harboring endochitinase gene of ~1,000 bp was constructed and used to transform potato nodes through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Out of several primary transformants, two transgenic potato lines were verified for transgene insertion and integration by Southern blot. In a pot experiment for Fusarium resistance, the transgenic potato lines didn’t show any symptoms of disease, instead they remained healthy post infection. The transgenic potato lines exhibited 1.5 fold higher mRNA expression of endochitinase at 7 days as compared to 0 day post fungus inoculation. It was evident that the mRNA expression decreased over days of inoculation but was still higher than at 0 day and remained stable upto 30 days post inoculation. Similarly, for A. solani infection assay, the mRNA expression of the endochitinase gene was 3 fold higher 7 days post inoculation compared to expression at 0 day. Although the expression decreased by1.2 fold during subsequent days post infection, it remained stable for 30 days, suggesting that protection in transgenic potato plants against fungal pathogens was achieved through an increase in endochitinase transcript.

Abstract In this paper, we begin with some observations on F-contractions. Thereafter, we introduce the notion of (F,R)g $(F,\mathcal{R})_{g}$-contractions and utilize the same to prove some coincidence and common fixed point results in the setting of metric spaces endowed with binary relations. An example is also given to exhibit the utility of our results. We also deduce some consequences in the setting of ordered metric spaces. As an application, we investigate the existence and uniqueness of a solution of integral equation of Volterra type.

Adaptation is a universal aspect of neural systems that changes circuit computations to match prevailing inputs. These changes facilitate efficient encoding of sensory inputs while avoiding saturation. Conventional artificial neural networks (ANNs) have limited adaptive capabilities, hindering their ability to reliably predict neural output under dynamic input conditions. Can embedding neural adaptive mechanisms in ANNs improve their performance? To answer this question, we develop a new deep learning model of the retina that incorporates the biophysics of photoreceptor adaptation at the front-end of conventional convolutional neural networks (CNNs). These conventional CNNs build on 'Deep Retina,' a previously developed model of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) activity. CNNs that include this new photoreceptor layer outperform conventional CNN models at predicting male and female primate and rat RGC responses to naturalistic stimuli that include dynamic local intensity changes and large changes in the ambient illumination. These improved predictions result directly from adaptation within the phototransduction cascade. This research underscores the potential of embedding models of neural adaptation in ANNs and using them to determine how neural circuits manage the complexities of encoding natural inputs that are dynamic and span a large range of light levels.