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Objectives The association between hyperglycemia at admission and COVID-19 severity and in-hospital mortality is an area of active medical research. Our study aims to explore this association across diabetics and hyperglycemic patients while keeping normoglycemic patients as control. Methods This retrospective cohort study involved a total of 90 patients with confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 infection. Patients were divided into three equal groups based on their history and BSR levels (diabetics, hyperglycemic, normoglycemic). Various laboratory parameters and inflammatory markers were compared across the study groups using Kruskal Wallis test. Finally, chi-square test was use to assess the association of severity and mortality across the study groups. Results Out of 90 patients, 38 (42.2%) were males with a mean age of 57.1 ± 14.7 years. Serum ferritin, LDH and lymphocyte levels were significantly higher in diabetics and hyperglycemic patients than in normal COVID-19 patients (p

Network forensics is commonly used to identify and analyse evidence of any illegal or unauthorised activity in a given network. The collected information can be used for preventive measures against potential cyber attacks and serve as evidence acceptable in legal proceedings. Several conventional tools and techniques are available to identify and collect such pieces of evidence; however, most of them require expensive commercial resources, longer investigation times, and costly human expertise. Due to modern networks' diverse and heterogeneous nature, forensic operations through conventional means become a cumbersome and challenging process. This calls for a new look at how network forensics is approached, considering contemporary approaches to network analysis. In this work, we explore artificial intelligence (AI) techniques based on contemporary machine learning (ML) algorithms such as deep learning (DL) to conduct network forensics. We also propose an investigation model based on AI/ML techniques that can analyse network traffic and behavioural patterns to identify any prior or potential cyber attacks. The proposed AI-based network forensics model speeds up the investigation process, boosting network monitoring without human intervention. This also aims to provide timely and accurate information to network administrators for quick and effective decisions, enabling them to avoid and circumvent future cyber attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we described the biofabrication of samarium oxide nanoparticles (HT‐Sm2O3 NPs) by applying the aqueous fruit extract of Hyphaene thebaica was utilized as an eco‐friendly chelating agent. The prepared NPs were subjected to various physicochemical properties and potential in biomedical applications. X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed sharp peaks that corroborated with the Joint Committee on Powder Diffraction Standards (JCPDS) card no. 00–042‐1464. Crystallite size obtained from Debye–Scherrer approximation and Williamson–Hall (W–H) plot was 28.73 and 69.3 nm, respectively. Optical bandgap was calculated by employing Kubelka–Munk (K–M) function and was found to be ~4.58 eV. Raman shift was observed at 121, 351, 424—, and 561 cm−1. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed two major peaks positioned at 360 and 540 nm. The high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) analysis of HT‐Sm2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) showed that they predominantly have spherical to cuboidal shapes. Additionally, the selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern presented spotty rings, indicating a high level of crystallinity in these NPs. The potential nanomedicine applications were studied using diverse bioassays using different treatments. The antioxidant activity demonstrated 45.71% ± 1.13% inhibition at 1000 μg/mL. Brine shrimp lethality assay revealed the highest cytotoxicity of 46.67% ± 3.33% at 1000 μg/mL and LC50 value of 1081 μg/mL. HT‐Sm2O3 NPs exhibited inhibition of angiogenesis (20.41% ± 1.18%) at of 1000 μg/mL. MTT assay results indicated that HT‐Sm2O3 NPs exhibit inhibitory effects on cell lines. Specifically, these NPs showed an IC50 value of 104.6 μg/mL against 3T3 cells. Against MCF‐7 cells, the NPs demonstrated an IC50 value of 413.25 μg/mL. Additionally, in the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the newly synthesized NPs showed an IC50 value of 320 μg/mL. The antidiabetic assessment through α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase inhibition assays revealed, an IC50 value of 380 μg/mL for α‐glucosidase and 952 μg/mL for α‐amylase was calculated. Overall, our study suggested that the Sm2O3 NPs possess moderate anticancer, cholinesterase inhibition, and antidiabetic potential, however, needs further assessment. Research Highlights: In this work, nano‐samaria is synthesized using an eco‐friendly and green approach.The nanoparticles were characterized using techniques such as Raman, HR‐TEM, FTIR, DRS, XRD, and so on, and the applications were studied using multiple in vitro bioassays for Diabetes, Alzheimer, and Cancer.The nano‐samaria revealed good potential for potential biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Inflammation and analgesia are two prominent symptoms and often lead to chronic medical conditions. To control inflammation and analgesia, many marketed drugs are in practice but the majority of them have severe side effects. Methods: This study involved the synthesis of a pivalate-based Michael product and evaluated it for in vitro COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX inhibitory potentials using specific assays. Molecular docking studies were also assessed. Based on the in vitro results, the compound was also subjected to in vivo anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive studies. Results: The pivalate-based Michael product (MAK01) was synthesized by an organocatalytic asymmetric Michael addition of ethyl isobutyrate to N-phenylmaleimide with an isolated yield of 96%. The structure of the compound was confirmed through 1H and 13C NMR analyses. The observed IC50 values for COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX were 314, 130, and 105 μg/mL, respectively. The molecular docking studies on the synthesized compound showed binding interactions with the minimized pockets of the respective enzymes. In a carrageenan model, a percent reduction in edema when administered at 10 mg/kg (a reduction of 33.3 ± 0.77% at the second hour), 20 mg/kg (a reduction of 34.7 ± 0.74% at the second hour), and 30 mg/kg (a reduction of 40.58% ± 0.84% after the fifth hour) was observed. The compound showed a significant response at concentrations of 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg with latency times of 10.32 ± 0.82, 12.16 ± 0.51, and 12.93 ± 0.45 s, respectively. Conclusion: In this study, we synthesized a pivalate-based Michael product for the first time. Moreover, based on its rationality and potency, it was found to be an effective future medicine for the management of analgesia and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology have the potential to reduce road accidents caused by human error. However, to enhance their safety and performance, it is crucial to understand the patterns of AV collisions. This study examines AV collisions by analyzing their temporal and spatial patterns. Based on reports from the California DMV between 2014 and 2022, the analysis reveals that rear-end collisions are the most common type, while incidents involving pedestrians and overturned vehicles are rare. The majority of collisions involve mid-sized vehicles, and AVs are responsible for a minority of accidents. The study also identifies clusters of incidents in San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles, and San Diego, with San Francisco having largest concentration. Specific areas within San Francisco, like Mission District, Japantown, Union Square, and North Beach neighborhoods, show high incident rates. These findings highlight safety concerns, and aid in integration of AVs into transportation infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex fracture reconstruction, malunion, delayed and nonunion are challenging problems often require special attention. Autogenous bone graft for osseous healing has been considered gold standard for decades. It contains viable osteoprogenitor cells, cytokines and growth factors with appropriate tissue matrix resulting in osteogenesis, osteoinduction and osteoconduction. Orthobiologics are biological materials used to augment bone and soft tissue cure, with multifactorial effects. In our study, three orthobiologics i.e., Bone Marrow Aspirate (BMA), Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Decellularized Fish Scale (DFS) were used in conjunction to autogenous bone graft. Objective was to transplant as many cells as possible with osteogenic potential along with the graft. These three regimens were evaluated in terms of clinical vital parameters, hematology, serum analysis, bone biomarkers, mechanical assessment, radiographic evaluation and histomorphometry. We concluded that Bone-BMA combination showed best results in fracture healing and bone remodeling while Bone-PRP combination was below par than Bone-BMA but was superior to Bone-DFS combination. More clinical research may be required before widespread use of these regimens. Furthermore, it is paramount that veterinary orthopedic surgeons must have contemporary knowledge regarding autogenous grafts and orthobiologics, so they can utilize them correctly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to empirically examine whether foreign experienced CFOs (FCFOs) affect financial reporting quality (FRQ). Analyzing Chinese listed firms from 2005 to 2018, this study employs methods such as ordinary least square, fixed effect model (FEM), generalized method of moment (GMM), two-stage least square (2SLS), propensity score matching method (PSM), and change analysis to find the relationship between FCFOs and FRQ. The results show that FCFOs significantly positively impact FRQ, which means that FCFOs improve FRQ in Chinese firms. We argue that international experience imprints CFO cognition, elevates his moral standards, and makes him more transparent in dealings, leading to a better information environment and robust corporate governance mechanism. In addition, this study indicates that the relationship between FCFOs and FRQ is significant in non-state-owned enterprises (NSOEs), suggesting that NSOEs outperform state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in terms of FRQ. Finally, we find that both foreign work and study experiences of CFOs affect FRQ. The findings suggest that asymmetric information problems can be alleviated by encouraging foreign experienced individuals to the firm's CFO position. The study provides empirical evidence that a CFO's foreign experience determines a firm's FRQ. Plain language summary: Foreign experienced chief financial officer and firm reporting quality Purpose – This paper aims to empirically examine whether foreign experienced CFOs (FCFOs) affect financial reporting quality (FRQ). Design/methodology/approach – Analyzing Chinese listed firms from 2005 to 2018, this study employs methods such as ordinary least square, fixed effect model (FEM), generalized method of moment (GMM), two-stage least square (2SLS), propensity score matching method (PSM), and change analysis to find the relationship between FCFOs and FRQ. Findings – The results show that FCFOs significantly positively impact FRQ, which means that FCFOs improve FRQ in Chinese firms. We argue that international experience imprints CFO cognition, elevates his moral standards, and makes him more transparent in dealings, leading to a better information environment and robust corporate governance mechanism. In addition, this study indicates that the relationship between FCFOs and FRQ is significant in non-state-owned enterprises (NSOEs), suggesting that NSOEs outperform state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in terms of FRQ. Finally, we find that both foreign work and study experiences of CFOs affect FRQ. Practical implications – The findings suggest that asymmetric information problems can be alleviated by encouraging foreign experienced individuals to the firm's CFO position. Originality/value – The study provides empirical evidence that a CFO's foreign experience determines a firm's FRQ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Indirect intra-abdominal injury with an intact peritoneum following close passage of highly energized projectiles is an uncommon but clearly described phenomenon; likewise delayed gastrointestinal perforation hours or days after passage of a high-energy stress wave from primary blast injury is uncommon. Awareness of these two rare occurrences is required to ensure delayed perforations are diagnosed and managed in a timely manner. Case report: An 8-year-old male child sustained a shotgun injury to the right elbow and the abdominal wall only of the right hypochondrium. Due to a non-salvageable joint injury, he underwent amputation of the right upper limb above the elbow, but on the third day of admission, he developed peritonitis and an X-ray revealed pneumoperitoneum. On abdominal exploration, two small ileal perforations were found without penetration of the peritoneum or diaphragm. The ileal injuries were primarily repaired and the postoperative course was uneventful. Conclusion: Indirect injury to abdominal viscera from the primary blast effect of close passage of high-energy projectiles resulting is rare and can have significant consequences if not diagnosed and managed early. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures related to long bones in female Beetal goats fail to heal or show delayed healing that leads to intensified morbidity. Bone marrow aspirate (BMA) has been suggested as an efficient biological adjuvant for healing long bone fractures. BMA comprises bone mesenchymal stem cells. This study aims to assess the potential of autologous BMA on metacarpal and metatarsal fracture of Beetal goats presented at the surgery clinic of the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore, Pakistan. Beetal goats were selected (n=20), and divided into four different groups. The first group was designated as bone plating with bone marrow aspirate (BPMA) in which fracture was reduced by using the bone plates along with the application of multiple BMA on days: 0, 14, 28, and 45. Furthermore, the second group was designated as bone plating with normal saline (BPNS) in which fracture was reduced by using the bone plates along with the application of normal saline. Additionally, the third group was designated as bone wiring with bone marrow aspirate (BWBM), and the fourth group, was bone wiring with normal saline (BWNS). Both third and fourth groups were treated with bone wiring along with BMA and bone wiring along with NS respectively. The rate of healing post-treatment was assessed by radiographic union score (RUS), weightbearing score (WBS), and serobiochemical evaluations on days: 0, 7, 14, 28, and 45. Our data showed a significant difference in the healing of fractures treated with BMA as compared to NS on days; 7 and 14. Moreover, the RUS, WBS, and serobiochemical profiles of goats treated with BMA showed improved healing of fractures as compared to the goats treated with NS. In summary, we observed that the healing process of the metacarpal and metatarsal fractured bones was reduced by bone plating, and bone wiring was ameliorated with the application of multiple BMA. We proposed further studies on larger cohorts. BMA may be used as supportive therapy to enhance the healing process of fractures in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel has been suggested for wound repair. However, there is insufficient evidence to support its usage in animals with cutaneous wounds. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of PRP gel on cutaneous wound healing in rescued horses. Twelve horses were divided into two groups: group A (PRP-treated) and group B (control). The group A (n=6) animals were treated with autologous PRP gel, while the group B (n=6) animals were treated with sterile saline. Fullthickness (3 x 3 cm²) skin wounds were selected in each horse on either left or right region of back. Neovascularization was assessed on days 14 and 28 by color Doppler ultrasonography and cytokeratin staining. Wound re-epithelialization and the number of fibroblasts were assessed by cytokeratin staining. All data were statistically analyzed. We observed that PRP-wounds had highly significantly (P<0.01) increased levels of neovascularization on days 14 and 28 than control wounds. PRP-wounds had highly significant (P<0.01) increases in re-epithelialization levels and fibroblast numbers at days 14 and 28 than control wounds. In conclusion, PRP-treated wounds accelerated cutaneous wound healing by fostering re-epithelialization and neovascularization in rescued horses than control wounds. Therefore, this study suggests the use of autologous platelet-rich plasma gel to treat cutaneous wounds in rescued horses, which is a safe and effective method. The color Doppler ultrasonography can be used to assess neovascularization during wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]