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Dimensions of linear type traits facilitate selection of livestock for breeding and rearing. To date, use of linear type traits for selection of breeding bulls is highly concentric to scrotal circumference (SC), with probable overlook to other important traits. Present study reported the importance of various gonadal linear type traits on spermatozoa production, age‐related changes in gonadal linear type traits of bulls and predictive ability of these traits on bulls' reproductive potentials. Among all gonadal traits, testicular density (TD), scrotal volume (SV), paired testicular weight (PWT) and SC were found most important predictor variables in order, which can discriminate between good/poor breeding bulls, that is, produced frozen semen doses (FSD) or not. Dimensions of gonadal traits increased significantly up to 36 months age and thereafter, development became slow and negligible. In contrast, TD decreased by 30%, 51%, 64%, 68% and 71% at 12, 24, 36, 48 and >49 months age, respectively, from its base value at 6 months. Bulls of lower TD (≤0.88 g/cm3) had significantly higher ejaculate volume (+9%), sperm motility, sperm concentration (+100 million/mL) and sperm output (+26%)/ejaculate as compared to bulls of higher TD (>0.88 g/cm3). Discriminant function was developed using TD, SV, PWT and SC to identify bulls of superior reproductive potentials. It was concluded that among the investigated traits, TD was the strongest to discriminate between FSD and Non‐FSD bulls. Therefore, our findings suggested that TD could be more potential trait than SC for dairy bulls' breeding soundness evaluation and assessment of reproductive ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar dryers have been tested with various simple and complex design modifications for better efficiencies. This article attempts to investigate the effect of a very simple design modification on the no‐load performance of a natural convection domestic solar dryer (NCDSD). A direct‐type domestic solar dryer has been developed with an air cavity surrounding the drying chamber. To compare the effect of air cavity, a domestic solar dryer without air cavity has also been developed and both the dryers were tested simultaneously under the climate of Hisar, India. The values of thermal efficiency were calculated along with convective heat transfer coefficient from absorber plate to the drying air. Both the dryers were also analyzed by developing finite element models in COMSOL multiphysics computer software. The no‐load thermal efficiency for the domestic solar dryer without and with air cavity was found to be 22.68% and 34.08%, respectively. The values of coefficient of correlation for modeled and actual drying tray temperatures for dryer without and with air cavity were 0.980466 and 0.9833917, respectively. The proposed finite element model would be helpful in the design and development of NCDSDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work deals with the value‐addition to bio‐derived hydrocarbon mix obtained as a side product in biorefinery for petrochemicals and fuel applications. One aspect of this study focused on developing a highly versatile, non‐noble metal‐based catalytic process to facilitate the production of green aromatics and high‐octane fuel from a renewable bio‐derived hydrocarbon mix. Considering the availability of various conventional/unconventional feedstocks viz. industrial petroleum naphtha and crude‐derived hydrocarbon mix, the catalyst development is also expanded for effective conversion of such feedstocks to produce aromatics. For this, a detailed understanding of the catalyst property‐activity relationship has been established with the help of characterization techniques like FTIR, XRD, NH3‐TPD, Pyridine‐IR, N2 adsorption‐desorption, HR‐TEM, XPS, TGA, etc. The studies revealed promising catalytic activity of 5Zn‐2Ga‐0.5Ba/H‐ZSM‐5 to exhibit very high aromatic selectivity (up to 80 %) and high‐octane fuel production (>100 RON) from all the feedstocks possessing different hydrocarbon composition. The catalyst showed good repeatability and recyclability at the tested reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, acceptance sampling plans have been crucial to quality assurance in manufacturing. Sample plans are designed using operating characteristic curve conditions to safeguard producers and customers. We propose a conditional probability-based Bayesian generalized multiple-dependent state sampling technique in this paper. The technique relies on Gamma-Poisson distribution. Other performance indicators and acceptance probability are calculated. Also, the new plan's operational method is discussed. The proposed technique is also compared to current attribute sampling schemes for efficacy. Optimal plan parameters for the plan's economic structure are also generated, adding managerial insights to the suggested plan. The entire cost study showed that the suggested plan is cheaper than existing sample plans under identical conditions. To account for inspection flaws, the plan is adjusted. We examine how Type I and Type II errors affect sampling plan outcomes. The plan is demonstrated with numerical examples and a data-driven application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new metric potential is created to generate exact solutions to the Einstein field equations with an anisotropic matter distribution. The solutions, so obtained, are very relevant to describe the compact stars like H e r X - 1 , 4 U 1538 - 52 , S A X J 1808.4 - 3658 , L M C X - 4 and E X O 1785 - 248 . These solutions are distinguished by the fact that they admit a linear equation of state which can be applied to strange stars with quark matter. In this model, we investigated various physical aspects such as energy density, pressure (both radial and transverse), anisotropy factor, mass, compactness parameter, surface redshift, and moment of inertia (approximate). Graphical methods were used to analyze energy conditions, equilibrium, and stability of the various of the compact stars and it has been deduced that our proposed model is applicable to anisotropic fluid spheres as all required conditions are fully satisfied. It is also worth mentioning that our model shows a monotonic reduction in the speed of sound with increasing radius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization identifies tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as a leading infectious killer. Although conventional treatments for TB exist, they come with challenges such as a heavy pill regimen, prolonged treatment duration, and a strict schedule, leading to multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains. The rise of MDR strains endangers future TB control. Despite these concerns, the hunt for an efficient treatment continues. One breakthrough has been the use of nanotechnology in medicines, presenting a novel approach for TB treatment. Nanocarriers, such as lipid nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, liposomes, and polymeric micelles, facilitate targeted delivery of anti-TB drugs. The benefits of nanocarriers include reduced drug doses, fewer side effects, improved drug solubility, better bioavailability, and improved patient compliance, speeding up recovery. Additionally, nanocarriers can be made even more targeted by linking them with ligands such as mannose or hyaluronic acid. This review explores these innovative TB treatments, including studies on nanocarriers containing anti-TB drugs and related patents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In industry, for the quality inspection processes, acceptance sampling plans proved to be economically viable, but the unpredictability of the plan's characteristics made the use of conventional acceptance sampling plans less reliable. The generalized fuzzy multiple deferred state sampling plan (GFMDSSP) is suggested in this study for qualities that consider the difficulty in calculating the precise value of the percentage of defectives in a batch. The strategy is created with a minimal average sample size in mind and the performance measures have already been determined. An analysis of the current fuzzy acceptance sampling plans for characteristics is conducted, and an important conclusion is drawn regarding the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Analysis of the impact of inspection errors on the sampling process reveals a decline in plan acceptance standards that is correlated with escalating inspection errors. Finally, some numerical examples are provided to support the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heating of sugarcane juice gives concentrated sugarcane juice (CSJ) which becomes raw material for the production of a variety of value added products. Conventional ways of CSJ production are environment polluting and indulge in huge amount of energy losses. In this study, an attempt is made to obtain final CSJ (98°B) by induction heating (IH) which is environment friendly and causes minimum energy losses. The experiments are performed at constant heat flux (9947.5 W m−2) on samples of sugarcane juice having 14.2°B, 18.8°B, 23.9°B, and 27.4°B values of initial brix contents. Thermo-enviro-economic analyses are carried out for the experiments conducted on given samples. The results concluded that time required for obtaining final CSJ decreases and evaporation rate increases with increase in initial brix value of sugarcane juice. The energy required for obtaining final CSJ from sugarcane juice of 27.4°B is 683.43 kJ which is 154.3% less as compared to that of fresh sugarcane juice heating with 14.2°B. The environmental parameters have no discernible effects of initial brix value while economic factors were improved. IH is observed thermally and environmentally beneficial with lower costs of CSJ production from the juice of higher initial brix contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivated by nanotechnological coating applications, a theoretical study is presented for the laminar, steady-state, incompressible nonlinear boundary layer flow of a non-Newtonian nanofluid external to a wedge-shaped configuration. The wedge surface is assumed to be isothermal. The Eringen micropolar model is deployed for rheological properties of the nanofluid. The dimensionless thermal perimeter layer equations are solved with the efficient MATLAB bvp4c numerical scheme. Validation with earlier studies is conducted. Aqueous-based nano-polymers are examined with either metallic/metallic oxide or carbon-based nanoparticles. The influence of Hartree pressure gradient parameter, Eringen vortex viscosity parameter, nanoparticle volume fraction, heat absorption parameter, Prandtl number and nanoparticle type on velocity, angular velocity, temperature, skin friction function and Nusselt number function are visualized graphically and in tables. Temperature is strongly elevated with increasing micropolar parameter and nanoparticle volume fraction. Velocity is boosted with increasing nanoparticle volume fraction. Temperatures are elevated with heat source but suppressed with heat sink. Temperatures are a maximum for silver and progressively lower for copper, diamond and with a minimum for titania. Skin friction is boosted with pressure gradient parameter whereas Nusselt number is depleted. Nusselt number is observed to be a maximum for diamond whereas it is a minimum for silver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a comparison of the date fruits drying performance of two most simple and common type of solar dryers. A simple even span type forced convection greenhouse dryer (FCGHD) and a forced convection cabinet solar dryer (FCCSD) were developed and tested under the climate of Hisar, India. The average values of convective heat transfer coefficients (HTC) were calculated as 0.46 and 0.53 W m−2 °C−1 for FCGHD and FCCSD, respectively. The respective average evaporative HTC was evaluated as 64.58 and 276.06 W m−2 °C−1. The drying efficiency and specific energy consumption for date fruits drying under FCCSD were, respectively, 55.2% higher and 37.87% lower than that of FCGHD. Amongst seven considered thin layer drying models, Midilli–Kucuk model showed the highest commensuration to the experimentally evaluated drying data of moisture ratio for date fruits. Higher values of effective moisture diffusivity and lower values of activation energy were observed under FCCSD. The economic prospective of both the drying arrangements has also been presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigate a new relativistic anisotropic Einstein field equations solution for compact stars under embedding class 1 conditions. In order to do this, we apply the Karmarkar condition and the embedding class one technique. By taking Buchdahl type metric potential g rr into consideration, the precise analytical solution has been investigated. We have studied physical characteristics of various compact star using this analytical solution. Central singularities are absent from the solution. We have explored thermodynamic observables inside the stellar models, such as radial and tangential pressures, matter density, anisotropic factor, energy conditions, TOV, red-shift, and the speed of sound, etc., after establishing this space-time geometry for the stellar models. From the graphical representation of various physical characteristics, it is demonstrated that our model meets all the specification for ultra-high density compact bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We discuss bioinspired pumping mechanism in a microfluidic configuration, consistent with the newly formulated propagative rhythmic contraction–expansion of a membrane attached to the channel wall. We aptly demonstrate the kinematics of the proposed membrane function and describe the wall profile developed due to the propagative expansion–contraction phases of the actuation cycle. The transport equations governing the flow dynamics are solved analytically in the purview of the lubrication theory. An analysis of the proposed model establishes that the fluidic functionality of a channel equipped with a single elastic membrane that operates following the propagation expansion-contraction modes can produce a unidirectional flow, and acts as a micropump in the process. By depicting the flow velocity, velocity contours, and streamlines patterns in the flow pathway, we discuss and demonstrate the eventual consequence of these flow parameters to the net throughput during both the compression and expansion phases of the process. We establish the efficacy of the novel membrane function by demonstrating augmented net throughput obtained from the proposed configuration. The membrane function developed in this endeavor will provide greater flexibility to the researchers to carry out further research in the field and will make the underlying analysis even easier in systems that utilize electromagnetic fields in the flow system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gravitational search algorithm (GSA) is an eminent heuristic algorithm inspired by the laws of gravity and motion. It possesses an independent physical model in which the mass agents are guided by gravitational force to quickly achieve the convergence. Although the GSA is proven to be efficient for science and engineering problems, the mass agents can be trapped in premature convergence due to the heaviness of masses in the later iterations. The occurrence of premature convergence impedes the agents' further exploration of the search space for a better solution. Here, the ant miner plus (AMP) variant of the ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm is utilized to avoid the trapping of agents in local optima. The AMP algorithm extends the exploration ability of the GSA algorithm by using the attributes of pheromone updating rules generated by best ants and a problem-dependent heuristic function. The AMP variant adheres to the attributes of the ACO algorithm and is also a decision-making variant which determines the problem solution more efficiently by constructing a directed acyclic graph, considering class-specific heuristic values, and including weight parameters for the pheromone and heuristic values. In this research, this hybridization of GSA and AMP (GSAMP) algorithms is presented, and it is utilized for the decision-making application of fingerprint recognition. Here, fingerprint recognition is conducted for complete as well as latent fingerprints, which are poor quality partial fingerprints, mostly acquired from crime scenes by law enforcement agencies. The experiments are performed for the complete fingerprint dataset of FVC2004 and the latent fingerprint dataset of NIST SD27, using the proposed GSAMP approach and the individual algorithms of Ant Miner (AM) and AMP. The experimental evaluation indicates the superiority of the proposed approach compared to other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposed work focusses on the 2D design and modelling of integrated microcantilever in microchannel for the analysis of fluid pressure. In order to compute the microfluidic pressure in microchannel at various angles, fluid structure interaction is analyzed using the finite element method. With a fluid flow rate of 4.33 cm/s, a 2D integrated microcantilever can optimize both fluid pressure and microcantilever deflection. The novelty of the microfluidic pressure sensing mechanism allows pressure of fluid to be sensed in a microchannel without connecting any electrical method such as piezoresistor or piezoelectric approach. The objective of the research is to integrate a microcantilever into a microchannel to reduce setup complexity and procedure cost. Maximum deflection of the 2D T-microcantilever achieved 10.30µm at, pressure at the tip of T-microcantilever 10.89 Pa, fluid velocity 0.00309 m/sec, and Reynolds number is 1.22 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fingerprint based human identification is one of the authentic biometric recognition systems due to the permanence and uniqueness of the finger impressions. There is the extensive usage of fingerprint recognition in personalized electronic devices, security systems, banking, forensic labs, and especially in law enforcement agencies. Although the existing systems can recognize fingerprints, they lack in case of poor quality and latent fingerprints. The latent fingerprints are captured by law enforcement agencies during the crime scene to find the criminal. Consequently, it is essential to develop a novel system that can efficiently recognize both complete and latent fingerprints. The current work proposes an efficient Gravitational Search Decision Forest (GSDF) method, which is a combination of the gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and the random forest (RF) method. In the proposed GSDF approach, the mass agent of GSA determines the solution by constructing decision trees in accordance with the random forest hypothesis. The recognition of the fingerprints is accomplished by mass agents in the form of a final generated decision forest from the set of hypothesis space as the mass agents can create multiple hypotheses using random proportional rules. The experiments for fingerprint recognition are conducted for both the latent fingerprints (NIST SD27 dataset) and the complete fingerprints (FVC2004 dataset). The effectiveness of the proposed GSDF approach is analyzed by evaluating the results with machine learning classifiers (random forest, decision tree, back propagation neural networks, and k-nearest neighbor) as well. The comparative analysis of the proposed approach and incorporated machine learning classifiers indicates the outperformed performance of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an architecture for interconnections of cluster of neighboring islanded mix smart microgrids (both DC and AC), for sharing the power among various areas. The cluster of microgrids consists of three microgrids i.e. two DC microgrids operating at different voltages and one AC microgrid. All microgrids have ring type architectures, which consist of various renewable distributed generations, battery energy storage systems, and various AC and DC loads. Two DC microgrids are interconnected through the bidirectional DC–DC converter, and the DC microgrid and AC microgrid are interconnected through the bidirectional single-phase voltage source converter (VSC). In this work, the control techniques of the bidirectional VSCs, used for interconnections of three microgrids, have also been developed, for controlling the operation of the interconnected microgrids system. The developed control techniques use the feed-back and feed-forward control signals. The developed control techniques are aimed to manage the bidirectional power flow between the interconnected microgrids, and to maintain constant desired rated voltages of all microgrids, under islanded mode, for different operating conditions. To verify the robustness of the proposed interconnected microgrids system and developed control techniques, the simulations are carried out under various operating scenarios, in the MATLAB environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the proposed work is to analyze the soliton structures of dust‐ion acoustic waves obtained in the framework of the Korteg‐de Vries (KdV) equation with the presence of a damping term. The concept of electron acoustic solitary wave in an unmagnetized plasma consisting of superthermal electrons has been taken into consideration. The KdV equation with the presence of a damping term has been derived with the help of the reductive perturbation technique and solved by using the well‐known homotopy analysis method. The considered method approximates all problems in a straightforward and simplified manner. The method computes the series solution efficiently and provides a simple way to ensure its convergence. The approximate analytical solution obtained from the present analysis is compared with available results in the literature for a different choice of pertinent parameters. The upshots specified that the amplitude of solitary waves increases for increasing values of the damping parameter. This study would in a way to demonstrate the potential and effectiveness of the homotopy analysis method to evaluate the various kinds of nonlinear equations arising in the soliton theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient visible light-promoted C(sp3)–H functionalization of alkyl arylacetates has been developed using CS2 and amines by eosin Y/I2 dual catalysis to achieve the formation of S-benzyl dithiocarbamate acetates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unexpected bioaccumulation and biomagnification of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) in the environment have become a predicament for all living organisms, including plants. The presence of these HMs in the plant system raised the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and remodeled several vital cellular biomolecules. These lead to several morphological, physiological, metabolic, and molecular aberrations in plants ranging from chlorosis of leaves to the lipid peroxidation of membranes, and degradation of proteins and nucleic acid including the modulation of the enzymatic system, which ultimately affects the plant growth and productivity. Plants are equipped with several mechanisms to counteract the HMs toxicity. Among them, seed priming (SP) technology has been widely tested with the use of several inorganic chemicals, plant growth regulators (PGRs), gasotransmitters, nanoparticles, living organisms, and plant leaf extracts. The use of these compounds has the potential to alleviate the HMs toxicity through the strengthening of the antioxidant defense system, generation of low molecular weight metallothionein's (MTs), and phytochelatins (PCs), and improving seedling vigor during early growth stages. This review presents an account of the sources, uptake and transport, and phytotoxic effects of HMs with special attention to different mechanism/s, occurring to mitigate the HMs toxicity in plants employing SP technology. Novelty statement: To the best of our knowledge, this review has delineated the consequences of HMs on the crucial plant processes, which ultimately affect plant growth and development. This review also compiled the up to dated information on phytotoxicity of HMs through the use of SP technology, this review discussed how different types of SP approaches help in diminishing the concentration HMs in plant systems. Also, we depicted mechanisms, represent how HMs transport and their actions on cellular levels, and emphasized, how diverse SP technology effectiveness in the mitigation of plants' phytotoxicity in unique ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (TON), assess the side effects, and compare the visual function results among three groups of patients who had received different treatment options – EPO, steroids, and observation. Methods: Patients with indirect TON presenting to the neuro-ophthalmology clinic from August 2019 to March 2020, were assigned to three groups, with six patients in each group. In group 1, patients were recruited prospectively and received recombinant human erythropoietin, whereas, in groups 2 and 3, patients were recruited retrospectively and received intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral steroids and multivitamins, respectively. Groups 1 and 2 included patients presenting within 2 weeks of trauma, whereas group 3 included those presenting beyond that. Best-corrected visual acuity, pupillary reaction, color vision, and visual fields following treatment were measured. Results: Initial visual acuity in the EPO group ranged from 20/80 to no perception of light (No PL). The mean initial BCVA (1.82 logMAR, standard deviation [SD] = 0.847) improved to 1.32, SD = 0.93 logMAR after treatment recorded at the third month (P = 0.0375), with no significant adverse effects. The initial BCVA of group 2 ranged from 20/120 to No PL. The mean initial BCVA (1.95, SD = 0.77 logMAR) improved to 1.45 logMAR, SD = 0.97 after treatment (P = 0.0435) but three patients had side effects of steroids. Initial visual acuity in Group 3 ranged from 20/40 to no PL. The mean initial BCVA (1.09 logMAR, SD = 1.10) worsened to 1.19 logMAR, SD = 1.06 after treatment after treatment (P = 0.0193). The improvement in BCVA when compared between the three groups was not significant. Conclusion: Both erythropoietin and steroids are effective in the management of traumatic optic neuropathy. However, erythropoietin shows lesser or no side effects when compared to steroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent decades, though India has experienced progress in ensuring the survival of its youngest members of society, the newborns; today, deaths within the first month of life represent three-quarters of all infant deaths. Objective: to study the newborn care practices among pregnant of periurban area of Aligarh. Material and Methods: This community based study was conducted in the Department of Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. Results: 83% pregnant women were in the age group of 15-30 years 17% in the age group of 31-45 years. There was a poor newborn care practices i.e majority (91.5%) of pregnant women delivered at home by untrained dais, unhygienic delivery practices, low level of breastfeeding practices and practices to prevent hypothermia and knowledge of danger signs in newborns requiring medical consultation, among pregnant women in periurban area of Aligarh, Utter Pradesh India. Conclusion: Neonatal survival is influenced much by care provided by the family before, during and after delivery, which in turn is influenced not only by mother's beliefs, but also perceptions of her immediate family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Businesses may now communicate with their consumers in new ways, make new strategic decisions, and create new workflows thanks to technological advancements. Things like making a flight reservation over the phone or conducting a survey exclusively in hard copy may appear archaic. Organizations may take educated moves toward operational efficiency when they have real-time access to data, the 21st-century oil. During the foreseen time period, Asia-Pacific is expected to be the most promising market. To attract more tourists to the Asia Pacific area, countries like China, India, Thailand, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand are spending considerably in the development of cutting-edge airline infrastructure. The Asia-Pacific region is one of the world's most sought-after vacation spots. Enhanced air connectivity is being driven by the region's burgeoning tourist industry, which in turn is predicted to propel the expansion of the Asia Pacific artificial intelligence (AI) in aviation market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cattle being non-seasonal breeding species, effects of photoperiods on sperm traits and morphology had been reported inadequately in breeding bulls. To elucidate the plausible existence of effects of photoperiods and seasons, seminal traits of Holstein Friesian × Sahiwal crossbred dairy bulls (N = 557) were analysed using different statistical models. A present study revealed that the biological rhythm of reproduction oscillated almost in parallel to the annual changes of natural photoperiods even in non-seasonal breeding species like cattle bulls. Semen traits diminished to the lowest in winter solstice (WS ± 45 days), progressively increased with the rising day length of spring (vernal equinox ± 45 days), reached a peak in summer solstice (SS ± 45 days), and then gradually reduced with decreasing photoperiod of the autumn equinox (AE ± 45 days). From summer solstice to winter solstice, sperm concentration reduced by 90.53 million/ml (8.85%), total sperm count/ejaculate decreased by 785 million (13.87%), total motile sperm count/ejaculate reduced by 17.59%, and total post-thaw motile sperm counts/ejaculates diminished by 38.64%. In short-duration photoperiods (≤ 12 h), bulls had a significantly (P < 0.01) higher incidence of major, minor, tail abnormality and total aberrant sperm% compared to that of long-duration photoperiods (> 12 h). Solstice equinox–based seasonal classification provided better insight into photoperiodicity on bulls' semen quality and sperm traits as compared to conventional meteorological classification of seasons. It was concluded that photoperiods affect sperm productivity, semen quality, and sperm morphology in non-seasonal breeding species like dairy bulls, maintained at transitional latitude (29° N) tropical climate. Bulls' reproductive ability was more influenced by the phases of increasing/decreasing day length duly primed by climax/trough of photoperiods, compared to mere long/short duration of photoperiods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the optimization strategies for the optimal simultaneous allocation of distributed generation (DG) and shunts capacitor banks (SCBs) in electrical distribution networks. These optimization strategies aim to determine the optimal size, location, and combination of DGs and SCBs to constitute a techno-economic system while satisfying the constraints and energy demand of the load. The optimization strategies explicitly reviewed include the problem formulations, optimization techniques, restrictions posed for optimization problems, decision variables, and network operating modes typically assumed while allocating the DGs and SCBs. In addition, there is an attempt to highlight the limitations of the existing literature and future research directions. This study undertakes a comprehensive review of the literature that systematically considers the simultaneous application of DGs and SCBs to advance the existing literature, which lacks such a review. Expectedly, this review will serve as a principle platform for researchers intending to explore the subject area for further improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For over a decade, distributed generations (DGs) have sufficiently convinced the researchers that they are the economic and environment-friendly solution that can be integrated with the centralized generations. The optimal planning of distributed generations requires the appropriate location and sizing and their corresponding control with various power network types to obtain the best of the technical, economical, commercial, and regulatory objectives. Most of these objectives are conflicting in nature and require multi-objective solutions. Therefore, this paper brings a comprehensive literature review and a critical analysis of the state of the art of the optimal multi-objective planning of DG installation in the power network with different objective functions and their constraints. The paper considers the adoption of optimization techniques for distributed generation planning in radial distribution systems from different power system performance viewpoints; it considers the use of different DG types, distribution models, DG variables, and mathematical formulations; and it considers the participation of different countries in the stated DG placement and sizing problem. Moreover, the summary of the literature review and critical analysis of this article helps the researchers and engineers to explore the research gap and to find the future recommendations for the robust optimal planning of the DGs working with various objectives and algorithms. The paper considers the adoption of uncertainties on the load and generation side, the introduction of DGs with energy storage backups, and the testing of DG placement and sizing on large and complex distribution networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of application of developed electromagnetic field system on freezing characteristics and quality of whole frozen tomato fruit. The system was developed with an electromagnetic field generating apparatus for applying magnetic field in the range of 2.5 mT (0.025 kGauss) and 3.0 mT (0.030 kGauss) in the existing deep freezing system. Freezing experiments were conducted to analyze the freezing curve so as to determine the effect of electromagnetic field on effective freezing time and rate in comparison with ordinary freezing process. Sensory characteristics were evaluated on the basis of visual appearance, texture, and thawing loss after thawing of samples at room temperature. Results indicated that magnetic field resulted in complete freezing of tomato samples in much shorter period of time (220–260 min) as compared to ordinary freezing (1460 min) with prominent lowering of freezing point and extending degree of supercooling. Thawing loss was significantly (p < 0.05) lower for electromagnetically frozen samples. It was 0.02% for the tomato samples frozen under the effect of magnetic field as compared to control (1.73%). Electromagnetically frozen tomato samples exhibited freshness and textural characteristics in terms of hardness of cell structure as close to the fresh samples even upon thawing and thus may represent a veritable means to retain the quality of perishables for longer period of time. Novelty Impact Statement: The application of magnetic field along with the existing freezing method results positively in enhancing the degree of supercooling and helped in reducing the damage to the food products caused by the formation of non‐uniform and larger ice crystals while speeding up the freezing process. The samples frozen with applied magnetic field differed significantly from the samples frozen conventionally in terms of appearance, freshness, and thawing loss. The fast freezing controlled the ice nucleation, decreased the freezing period, and maintained the stability of size, shape, and distribution of ice crystals in the food product. Drip loss was observed to be 1.73% after thawing when tomatoes were frozen without the influence of magnetic field. By the application of magnetic field, it was reduced to 0.02% for the same samples under similar thawing conditions just after the completion of the freezing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Associations of pelvic linear type traits (PLT) on production and reproduction of cows were widely documented; in contrast, importance of PLT on bulls' reproductive ability, semen quality, semen cryo‐preservability, frozen semen doses (FSD) production etc. was inadequately reported. The present study was conducted on Frieswal bulls (N = 378, age: 6–91 months, m) to assess age‐wise growth dynamics of pelvic dimensions, classifying age into 6 groups (6 m, 7–12 m, 13–24 m, 25–36 m, 37–48 m, >48 m). Iso‐age group bulls' (N = 100; 25–36 m) records were analysed after classifying seasons (summer/rainy/winter) of semen collection, if pelvic morphometric traits had any practical associations with testicular traits, semen quality and FSD production or not. A discriminant function was developed based on PLT, which showed poor predictive ability to distinguish FSD/non‐FSD category bulls. Age significantly influenced growth and dimensions of gonadal and external pelvic morphometry traits. The dimensions of PLT increased at higher rate up to 36 m age and thereafter enhancement became insignificant. Pelvic linear type traits were positively (p <.01) associated with testicular/scrotal traits. Among PLT studied, pelvic triangle area (PTA) was the strongest discriminating variable to distinguish between good and poor breeding bulls. Bulls of larger PTA (≥1000 cm2), at average 30 m age, produced relatively inferior‐quality semen, viz. lower volume (−3%), sperm concentration (−48 × 106/mL), motility, semen quality index, total sperm counts/ejaculate (−601 × 106), motile sperm counts/ejaculate (−474 × 106) and total post‐thaw motile sperm counts (−226 106), than bulls of lesser PTA (<1000 cm2). It was concluded that external PTA could be a useful addition to the bulls' breeding soundness evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of mass of paraffin wax as energy storage medium has been investigated during solar evaporation of sugarcane juice in an improvised stepped solar system. • The system laden with maximum mass of paraffin wax is found best in environmental conservation and can mitigate 8.26 tonnes CO 2 per year. • The total productive cost per day of the unit having maximum mass of paraffin wax is $0.428, with 688 days as the economic payback period. • It is inferred that the system becomes thermally more efficient with minimum harmful effects on the environment. In this experimental study, the effect of mass of paraffin wax as ESM is studied during solar evaporation of sugarcane juice in a sustainable energy recovery system (SERS) having series of stepped solar stills. In this research work, three systems are taken under experiments viz. SERS-ESM15, SERS-ESM30 and SERS-ESM60, respectively laden with 675 g, 1350 g and 2700 g of paraffin wax. The distillate production and brix content of final product are found to increase with mass of ESM and SERS-ESM60 gives optimum results (2175.6 g and 25.8 oB). SERS-ESM60 is found thermally more efficient having energy efficiency of 245.32 % which is respectively, 330.8 % and 159.4 % higher than those of SERS-ESM15 and SERS-ESM30. The exergy efficiency of SERS-ESM60 is also observed maximum (16.78 %). The carbon credits earned by SERS-ESM60 are evaluated as $123.92 and it is found to mitigate 8.26 tonnes of CO 2 per year that makes it environmentally friendlier among the tested systems. Also SERS-ESM60 is found economical with total productive cost of $124.12/year. It is inferred that SERS becomes more sustainable and stable with increase in mass of ESM and could be used in NCS industry for its sustainable transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Explanatory scientific mapping of Perovskite solar cell technology (PSCT) is presented. • Prominent authors and organizations shaping the landscape of PSCT are presented. • By using keywords and thematic analysis, trending topics and the evolution of research are explored. • Perspectives of the primary issues and recommendations for PSCT are proposed. Extensive literature on Perovskite solar cell technology (PSCT) has become widespread as technology enables more innovations in the field. Despite efficient platforms like Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and others, challenges persist for new researchers in search of synchronized key information in the PSCT field. Inefficiencies arise from scattered data, hindering the research cycle for the new researchers. Moreover, policy-making and planning by the stakeholders (Government, Academia, and Industry) in research and innovation rely on data-driven approaches, emphasizing the need for identifying key information to mitigate technological risks in the field of PSCT. This research gap is addressed by the effective extraction of key knowledge from the fragmented literature of PSCT. To achieve this, a comprehensive scientific mapping is conducted via bibliometric analysis, encompassing a collection of 11,092 scientific publications. All relevant data that can bridge the mentioned research gap has been meticulously extracted and analyzed from the mentioned literature which involves the trend from inception, main contributors (countries, researchers, and production sources) to PSCT, detailed keywords, and thematic analysis. The key results reveal that People's republic of China, the USA, and India significantly contribute to PSCT research, leading in publications and citations. "ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces" followed by "Journal of Materials A," "Solar RRL," and "Advanced Energy Materials." Keyword analysis identifies four clusters: "stability," "efficiency," "optical properties," and environmental concerns. The trends show the perspective of the PSCT sub-areas, like stability for commercialization, innovative methods for performance improvement, and considerations for lead-free options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work explores the effect of latent heat storage on the performance of a passive‐type mixed‐mode greenhouse dryer for groundnuts drying. Experiments were conducted for mixed‐mode greenhouse groundnuts drying (MMGGD), modified mixed‐mode greenhouse groundnuts drying (MMMGGD), and open sun groundnuts drying (OSGD) under the climate of Hisar (India). Average convective heat transfer coefficients for MMGGD, MMMGGD, and OSGD were 0.738, 0.607, and 0.555 W/m2 °C, respectively, and the respective average evaporative heat transfer coefficients were 113.304, 41.483, and 14.266 W/m2 °C. Energy and exergy efficiencies were found higher for MMMGGD, whereas the specific energy consumption was found lower as compared to MMGGD. Statistical analysis has shown the appropriateness of the page model for predicting the thin‐layer drying behavior of groundnuts for MMGGD, MMMGGD, and OSGD. The lower value of energy payback time (4.47 years) and the higher value of CO2 mitigation (953.299 tons) for MMMGGD show the environmental suitability as compared to MMGGD. Practical applications: The present study focuses on the development of drying systems to prevent post‐harvest losses in groundnuts due to moisture and uncontrolled weather conditions. The temperature range of the proposed modified mixed‐mode greenhouse dryer is suitable for drying for most of the agricultural commodities. This drying system can be used for a range of food crops in different small and medium industries. Due to electrical independence, the proposed system seems best suited for small farms and farmers in remote and rural areas. The modified mixed‐mode greenhouse may also be used as a field‐based storage house for grains and freshly harvested crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Skin disorders are common in paediatric age group and are associated with significant morbidity and stress. These differ from adults in clinical presentation, treatment and prognosis. Data on pattern of paediatric dermatoses can be used in planning healthcare programs. Aim: To study the clinical pattern and prevalence of various skin conditions in paediatric age group in tertiary care centre of rural Haryana, India. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College (W) Khanpur Kalan, Sonepat, Haryana, India. A total of 1,003 consecutive Outpatient Department (OPD) patients upto age of 14 years presenting with skin conditions were included in study from a period May 2021 to January 2022. Various parameters like age, gender, pattern of distribution and type of skin lesions were assessed. Results were entered in excel sheet and frequency, percentages were calculated. Results: Out of 1,003 patients 56.53% were males and 43.47% were females. Maximum number (33.20%) of patients were in the age group of 1-5 years. Scabies (24.12%) was the most reported dermatological condition. Majority of dermatoses belonged to infections (32.40%) and infestations (24.83%) followed by eczemas (17.34%). Bacterial infections (15.25%) were most common infections followed by fungal (10.37%) and viral (6.78%) infections. Conclusion: In the present study, infections and infestations were most common dermatological conditions. This study provides insight about the pattern of various dermatoses among children in rural setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This experimental work discusses the thermo‐enviro‐economic analyses for effect of mass of paraffin wax as phase change material (PCM) on solar distillation in inclined stepped solar still (SSS). Three identically designed SSS units, namely, S1, S2, and S3 respectively, laden with 0.45, 0.90, and 1.35 kg of PCM filled in copper tubes are fabricated and tested at 25 mL/min flow rate. The findings of the experimental study manifested that the performance of SSS unit is significantly improved as the mass of the PCM is increased. The amount of distillate produced by units S1, S2, and S3 are respectively, 1.99, 2.12, and 2.18 kg. The distillate obtained from S3 unit is 8.4% and 2.6% more than S1 and S2 units, respectively. The average values of energy and exergy efficiencies of this unit are evaluated as 31.53% and 2.15%, respectively. This unit is capable to mitigate 8.28 t of CO2 per year which is 7.6% and 2.1% higher than that of units S1 and S2, respectively. Carbon credit earned by units S1, S2 and S3 are respectively, $114.78, $121.58, and $124.23. The carbon credit earned from S3 unit is the highest among tested units which inferred that unit S3 is environmentally friendlier. The total productive cost of environmentally and thermally supreme unit S3 is evaluated as $0.30 which is 6.67% and 3.34% higher than that of S1 and S2 units, respectively. The study shows that the use of PCM in solar distillation has the potential to improve its productivity which helps to eradicate the scarcity of potable water. Highlights: The effect of mass of paraffin wax loading on the performance of stepped solar still is presented.Thermo‐enviro‐economic performance of system is observed to improve with increase in mass of paraffin wax loading.The system loaded with 1.35 kg paraffin wax is found best in environmental conservation and can mitigate 8.28 t CO2 per year.The total productive cost per day of the unit having maximum mass of paraffin wax is $0.30. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linear type traits are easily measurable phenotypic characteristics that help breed characterization, selection of animals for breeding and found to be associated with animals' performance. Unlike cows, there have been limited studies linking body linear traits with male reproductive ability and semen cryo‐preservability of breeding bulls. Present study reported the age‐related changes in body linear type traits in Frieswal (N = 378) dairy bulls and its relevance with reproductive potentials of breeding bulls. Our results indicated that body frame size traits were significantly and positively correlated with gonadal linear traits. Among the selected body mophometric parameters body length, chest girth and head circumference were the important body linear type traits having capability to discriminate between bulls of frozen semen doses (FSD) and non‐FSD categories. Discriminant function has been developed based on body linear traits of crossbred dairy bulls to find out males of superior reproductive potentials. Our finding provided evidence that body length (humerous tuberosity to tuber ischii) was the most powerful linear body trait associated with breeding bulls' reproductive ability and semen quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments have been performed on an innovative stepped solar distillation-cum-active drying unit (SSD-ADU). The basin of the distillation unit is made in the stepped form and its underneath part works as a drying unit which is integrated with a solar flat plate collector. Thermal analysis of the SSD-ADU has been performed at water flow rates of 50 and 65 mL min−1 in the distillation unit for drying ginger. The developed unit has been found to perform better at lower water flow rate for which the drying of bitter gourd and potato slices has also been tested. The average values of internal and external heat transfer coefficients at lower flow rate for distillation unit are found to be 121.20 and 18.95 Wm−2 °C, respectively. The average values of convective heat transfer coefficients for the drying of ginger, bitter gourd and potato slices have been evaluated as 5.24, 4.67 and 5.46 Wm−2 °C, respectively. The energy efficiency, exergy efficiency and daily distillate output of the distillation system at lower flow rate have been observed 15%, 28% and 12% higher than at other given flow rate. Experimental uncertainty, efficiency of solar collector and cost analysis of SSD-ADU have also been evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Assessing the use of a radiation therapy (RT) planning MRI performed in the treatment position (pMRI) on target volume delineation and effect on organ at risk dose for oropharyngeal cancer patients planned with diagnostic MRI (dMRI) and CT scan. Methods: Diagnostic MRI scans were acquired for 26 patients in a neutral patient position using a 3T scanner (dMRI). Subsequent pMRI scans were acquired on the same scanner with a flat couch top and the patient in their immobilisation mask. Each series was rigidly registered to the patients planning CT scan and volumes were first completed with the CT/dMRI. The pMRI was then made available for volume modification. For the group with revised volumes, two IMRT plans were developed to demonstrate the impact of the modification. Image and registration quality was also evaluated. Results: The pMRI registration led to the modification of target volumes for 19 of 26 participants. The pMRI target volumes were larger in absolute volume resulting in reduced capacity for organ sparing. Predominantly, modifications occurred for the primary gross tumour volume (GTVp) with a mean Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) of 0.7 and the resulting high risk planning target volume, a mean DSC of 0.89. Both MRIs scored similarly for image quality, with the pMRI demonstrating improved registration quality and efficiency. Conclusions: A pMRI provides improvement in registration efficiency, quality and a higher degree of oncologist confidence in target delineation. These results have led to a practice change within our department, where a pMRI is acquired for all eligible oropharyngeal cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-powered UV photodetector (UVPD) operates without the need for an external energy source and contributes to global energy conservation. With ongoing innovation, self-powered PDs are becoming increasingly appealing for industrial and innovation applications such as advanced environmental monitoring and communication devices. This study investigates the influence of varying working pressures (ranging from 3 to 15 mTorr) during reactive magnetron sputtering on the crystalline structure, surface morphology, and performance of SnO 2 thin film photodetectors, aiming to fabricate self-powered UVPDs. The SnO 2 -based UVPD demonstrates exceptional self-powered UV photodetection capabilities, characterized by a sensitivity of 6.41×105%, responsivity of 0.09 mA/W, and detectivity of 2.99×1010 Jones. In addition, SnO 2 -based UVPD possesses a switching photo response and recovery time of 0.75 and 0.99 s. Henceforth, it was observed that 8 mTorr SnO 2 thin film exhibits exceptional stability, superior photodetector performance, and remarkable repeatability, rendering them highly suitable for UVPD applications. Notably, these films demonstrate sustained functionality for approximately 100 days without necessitating encapsulation. These excellent results confirm that SnO 2 thin films are suitable for fabricating future smart optoelectronics devices. [Display omitted] • R-DCMS technique-derived SnO 2 films for self-power photodetection applications. • The SnO 2 photodetector show outstanding self-powered UV photodetection performance. • SnO 2 -based UVPD show fast response and recovery time of 0.7 and 0.9 s. • The SnO 2 UV photodetector offers repeatability for around 100 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an attempt is made to obtain concentrated sugarcane juice and distilled water using solar radiations that would save energy as well as environment. In this study work, the experimental performance of a sugarcane juice solar evaporation system (SJSES) is investigated for the evaporation of water from sugarcane juice. To check the influence of flow rate on the performance of SJSES units, experiments are carried out at 20, 25, 30, and 35 ml/min. The flow of sugarcane juice at 25 ml/min in SJSES unit is found optimum that resulted in highest energy saving, distilled water, and relatively more brix content of final product. The performance of SJSES unit loaded with paraffin wax at optimum flow rate (unit IV) resulted in maximum distilled water (605.1 g) which is 82.4%, 14.8%, and 39.4% higher than other units. Paraffin wax loading in SJSES increased its distillate output, brix of juice, and working time by 78.3 g, 7.9%, and 1 h, respectively. Thermal and exergy efficiencies are found maximum for unit IV having values 58.56% and 4.53%, respectively. The amount of energy saved is observed maximum for this unit along with least distillate cost and payback period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet of Things (IoT) is a common platform that brings various devices together which have communicating properties. So IoT need a protocol that helps it to communicate it like TCP, UDP, XMPP MQTT, etc. These protocols offer congestion control too. As the number of devices is increasing, congestion will increase too. In the current situation TCP deals with congestion control on the transport layer. There are many versions of TCP available but not able to deal with congestion in IoT devices. Therefore this paper focuses on various congestion control algorithms of TCP as well as MPTCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geometric and color features of agricultural material along with related physical properties are critical to characterize and express its physical quality. The experiments were conducted to classify the physical characteristics like size, shape, color and texture and then workout the relationship between manual observations and using image processing techniques for weight and volume of the four wheat refractions i.e. sound, damaged, shriveled and broken grains of wheat variety PBW 725. A flatbed scanner was used to acquire the images and digital image processing method was used to process the images and output of image analysis was compared with the actual measurements data using digital vernier caliper. A linear relationship was observed between the axial dimensions of refractions between manual measurement and image processing method with R2 in the range of 0.798–0.947. The individual kernel weight and thousand grain weight of the refractions were observed to be in the range of 0.021–0.045 and 12.56–46.32 g respectively. Another linear relationship was found between individual kernel weight and projected area estimated using image processing methodology with R2 in the range of 0.841–0.920. The sphericity of the refractions varied in the range of 0.52–0.71. Analyses of the captured images suggest ellipsoid shape with convex geometry while the same observation was recorded by physical measurements also. A linear relationship was observed between the volume of refractions derived from measured dimensions and calculated from image with R2 in the range of 0.845–0.945. Various color and grey level co-variance matrix texture features were extracted from acquired images using the open-source Python programming language and OpenCV library which can exploit different machine and deep learning algorithms to properly classify these refractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposed work numerically investigates the buoyancy-driven flow of Casson fluid from a vertical wavy surface under the influence of a magnetic field and evaluates the underlying transport of heat in the free convective regime both quantitatively and qualitatively. Pertaining to this analysis, the primitive forms of coupled non-linear partial differential equations are evaluated with the help of an efficient and straightforward Crank–Nicolson implicit finite difference technique. By representing the graphical plots of flow velocity, temperature, and friction-factor coefficients, obtained for different physical parametric values pertinent to this analysis, we discuss the influence of the Hartmann number, surface waviness parameter, and rheological parameter of the fluid on the underlying thermohydrodynamics. In addition to the isotherm and streamline plots, by demonstrating the functional form, we discuss an extensive flow visualization technique that provides unique heat flow visualization for the wavy surface based on Bejan's heat function concept. The results indicate that for increasing the magnitude of the magnetic parameter, the evolution of isotherms, streamlines, and heatlines deviates periodically with a higher amplitude, which signifies the transfer of high heat energy as well as the efficient transport of heat in the convective regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jaggery is manufactured by continuous heating of sugarcane juice in an open pan of traditional plants. The lack of technological advancements in these plants leads to high bagasse consumption and low thermal efficiency. In the present study, a modified two‐pan jaggery manufacturing plant has been fabricated, tested, and evaluated. This plant has a modified gutter pan with internal fitting of copper tubes to enhance the rate of heat supply from hot flue gases to the bulk sugarcane juice during its preheating. An automatic fuel feeding system has also been implemented to optimize the rate of bagasse supply in the furnace. Experiments were performed with the same input and output operating parameters (mass, density, and temperature of sugarcane juice). From the analysis of experimental data, it is observed that the modified plant has a high thermal efficiency of 72.34%, low bagasse consumption of 1.39 kg/kg of jaggery produced, and good rate of jaggery production of 0.61 kg/min. The actual results have been compared with theoretical values and are found in well agreement. The unit cost for jaggery production and payback period of the plant were found to be 0.45 $/kg and 1.24 years, respectively. The experimental errors have also been evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In continuation of our search for pharmacologically potent benzofuran compounds, we undertook the synthesis of 5- chloro-2-hydroxy benzonitrile (2) from 5-chloroslicylaldehyde (1) by treating with acetic anhydride and sodium ethoxide. We get biologically active benzofurans and their derivatives. When compound 2 was treated with chloroacetone, yielded compound 3. Then the compounds 4 and chalcones 5a-e were prepared by treating compound 3 with aqueous sodium hydroxide and substituted aldehyde, respectively. Compound 5a was converted into compound 6a by treating with acetic anhydride. All newly synthesized compounds have been characterized by IR, ¹HNMR, and Mass spectral data. All the extracts were screened for antimicrobial activities against various pathogenic microorganisms and exhibited appreciable activities compared with standard drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Personal and gender identification of human skeletal remains plays a crucial role in case of mass disasters. Orbital aperture is unique and have higher resistance towards fracture. The radiographic pattern of frontal sinuses is unique to every individual and remains stable throughout the life. Frontal sinus and orbital aperture can be used reliably in human identification provided both antemortem and post mortem radiographs of the victims are available. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A retrospective study involving 100 CBCT images from 18-65years of age were retrieved from the department data base. Each image was analyzed using Planmeca Romexis software with the image thickness of 1.2 mm. The maximum height of the orbit, orbital width, orbital index, interorbital distance was measured in coronal section. The bizygomatic width was measured in axial section. Volumetric measurements were made using the "ellipse" feature of Romexis in coronal, sagittal and axial reconstructions. Frontal sinus length (width), frontal sinus anteroposterior length (depth) measured in axial section, frontal sinus height was measured in coronal sections. All measurements were expressed in millimeters except volume of the orbit was expressed in cubic millimeters RESULTS: Multivariate logistic regression test was done to find the significant parameters in gender discrimination. P value of 0.002 for orbital height on the right side,0.002 for orbital width on right side, 0.003 for orbital index on right side,0.042 for orbital volume on left side, 0.023 for inter orbital distance, 0.011 for frontal sinus length on left side, 0.002 for frontal sinus height on left side was obtained. CONCLUSION: As dental professionals, we can continue to play a key role by maintaining quality records and thus could be a part of the investigating team in the field of forensics. This method should be considered as one of the reliable methods for gender assessment because of its accuracy in living individuals of unknown personal data for human biology studies and, also in the forensic context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small single-stranded non-coding RNAs that act as the master regulator of animal growth and development. RNA-RNA interaction is an important mechanism of gene regulation during biotic and abiotic stress. Heat stress (HS) is one of the most important abiotic factors which affect the growth, milk yield and reproductive health of the dairy animals. In the present investigation, we identified 387 known and 77 novel miRNAs from Tharparkar (TH) and Karan Fries (KF) cattle under HS condition. Family distribution analysis showed the identified miRNAs belong to more than 15 different families in which miR-2284 was the most abundant. We identified 42,350 targets for the known miRNAs reported in cattle. Pathway analysis of the identified targets showed most of the target genes were involved in cancer, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, calcium signaling, Ras signaling, and cAMP signaling pathways. Differential gene expression showed more than 344 miRNAs changed their expression significantly between control and HS condition. Heat map was generated for the top 20 most up and downregulated miRNAs. Ten miRNAs were validated using qRT-PCR to be heat responsive, based on read count value and differential gene expression. These novel miRNAs are new addition to the miRNA database of cattle. This study provides an overview of miRNA profile and their interaction with the target genes which leads to further understanding in deciphering the thermotolerance mechanism in cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamical behavior of carrier electrons varies from metals to insulators depending upon their intrinsic energy levels. The anomalous behavior of carriers in topological insulators makes it a prior candidate for numerous applications in the field of spintronics, optoelectronics, terahertz generation, and detection. This article reports the excited state dynamics of a thin shining flake of Bi2Se3 single crystal in which the kinetic profile is extensively analyzed. The ultrafast carrier dynamics of this crystal were studied over a wide NIR spectral range with several optical excitations using ultrafast transient reflectance spectroscopy. The thermalization of generated hot carriers due to the implication of pump beam and their relaxation pathways through different energy levels are predicted. The signal comprises optical (1–10 ps) and acoustic (10–50 ps) coherent phonon vibrations in the crystal. The FFD (filtering high-frequency component followed by fitting data) analysis is carried out to investigate the terahertz frequency generation dependence. This article has clearly shown the tunability of terahertz generation with external electromagnetic excitations and probe radiations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) has long been used non‐medically, and it is currently under investigation for its potential therapeutic benefits. Both uses may be related to its ability to enhance empathy, sociability, emotional processing and its anxiolytic effects. However, the neural mechanisms underlying these effects, and their specificity to MDMA compared to other stimulants, are not yet fully understood. Here, using electroencephalography (EEG), we investigated the effects of MDMA and a prototypic stimulant, methamphetamine (MA), on early visual processing of socio‐emotional stimuli in an oddball emotional faces paradigm. Specifically, we examined whether MDMA or MA enhance the processing of facial expressions, compared to placebo, during the early stages of visual perception. MDMA enhanced an event‐related component that is sensitive to detecting faces (N170), specifically for happy and angry expressions compared to neutral faces. MA did not affect this measure, and neither drug altered other components of the response to emotional faces. These findings provide novel insights into the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of MDMA on socio‐emotional processing and may have implications for the therapeutic use of MDMA in the treatment of social anxiety and other psychiatric disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present experimental work is to develop a new approach to utilize the underneath space of stepped basin solar distillation unit for drying agro-commodities. Two major solar applications are integrated to utilize the undesired energy losses. A stepped basin solar distillation-cum-drying unit (SBSD-DU) integrated with a parabolic reflector is thermally and economically analyzed. The effects of flow rates on the performance of distillation and drying unit are also evaluated. The internal and external heat transfer coefficients for distillation unit were found in the range of 56.35–125.28 W/m2oC and 17.54–20.85 W/m2oC, respectively. The distillate output at lower flow rate (50 mL/min) has been observed nearly 15 % higher than at higher water flow rate (65 mL/min). Maximum condensate yield of 3 L/m2/day with maximum energy and availability efficiency of 22.75 % and 2.2 %, have been obtained. Around 80 % moisture on the wet basis has been observed to evaporate from the dried agro-commodities (ginger/bitter gourd/potato slices). The unit cost of the distilled water and dried commodity is calculated as $ 0.0245. The experimental uncertainty is evaluated in the range of 3.99–4.45 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proposed architectures of the roof-top solar PV system, and the cluster of four PVs on different buildings based microgrid. • The centralized controller is used in the proposed microgrid system. The control techniques of the bidirectional VSCs, used of interfacing the PV, BESS, load, and microgrid, have been developed for managing power balance in the proposed system. • Developed control technique of the bidirectional single-phase VSC, using feed-back and feed-forward control signals, is suggested into rotating dq SRF, with dual controllers for controlling ac current/voltage. • Control technique of the BDC for BESS are proposed using two voltage controllers and one current controller, for controlling the charging and discharging operation of the BESS to fulfil the power mismatch in its own building as well as in other building(s) integrated to the microgrid. •. Power control algorithms are also proposed for balancing the power in the roof-top PV system as well as cluster of four roof-top PVs. This paper presents the control techniques for the operation of roof-top solar photovoltaics based single-phase ac microgrid in islanded mode. The proposed microgrid consists of four roof-top photovoltaics on various buildings, battery energy storage system in each building, and loads. In each building, the roof-top photovoltaic system is connected to the single-phase ac loads and proposed single-phase ac microgrid through the two-stage converter, which consists of dc-dc boost converter and bidirectional single-phase voltage source converter. A bidirectional dc-dc converter is used to connect the battery energy storage system to the photovoltaic system. The control technique of the bidirectional single-phase voltage source converter, using the feed-forward and feed-back control signals, has been suggested into a rotating d-q synchronous reference frame, with the dual controllers, for controlling the power mismatch and rated sinusoidal ac voltage of the microgrid. The control technique of the bidirectional dc-dc converter, used for the battery energy storage system, is implemented with two voltage controllers and one current controller for managing of the power mismatch in the proposed microgrid system. In this work, the power control algorithms have also been developed, which are aimed to manage the power balance in the single roof-top PV based building as well as in the proposed microgrid, under islanded mode, for various operating scenarios including fault condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]