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Abstract Older adults are vulnerable to unsafe medication practices. This cross-sectional study estimated the prevalence and factors of polypharmacy and self-medication among 600 older adults from six Indian cities. The updated Screening Tool of Older Persons’ Prescriptions and Screening Tool to Alert to Right Treatment criteria (version 3) were used. Knowledge, attitudes, and reported practices regarding self-medication were assessed. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and multivariable analysis were used. The prevalence of polypharmacy was 33.7% (95% CI 29.9–37.6%), with significant associations to multiple comorbidities [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.5 (95% CI 1.1–4.1)], recent transition of care [aOR 3.3 (95% CI 1.4–5.7)], and recent hospitalization [aOR 4.6 (95% CI 2–7.7)]. The proportions of prescriptions with potentially inappropriate medications and potential prescribing omissions were 28.8% (95% CI 25.2–32.6%) and 20.3% (95% CI 17.2–23.8%), respectively. The prevalence of self-medication was 19.7% (95% CI 16.6–23.1%), associated with factors, such as staying alone [aOR 4.5 (95% CI 2.4–6.6)], multiple comorbidities [aOR 3 (95% CI 1.4–6.7)], and recent hospitalization [aOR 4.8 (95% CI 1.5–8)]. Among those who self-medicated, 65.3% lacked knowledge of self-medication, 50% did not comprehend the risks, and 40.7% reported unsafe self-medication practices. The findings emphasize interventions’ necessity for promoting safe medication use in older adults.

Abstract Background Dengue and leptospirosis are prominent vector-borne diseases in tropical and subtropical regions, sharing overlapping geographic distribution and clinical presentations, which complicates diagnosis and management. Co-infection of these pathogens places additional strain on healthcare resources in endemic areas. This study aims to systematically estimate the prevalence and mortality rates of dengue and leptospirosis co-infections and assess their clinical implications. Methods Adhering the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in the PROSPERO database, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to October 2024. Nested Knowledge was used for screening and data extraction. Studies reporting quantitative data on the prevalence or mortality of dengue and leptospirosis co-infections were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers using the Modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Statistical analyses, including prevalence and mortality estimation, sensitivity analysis were conducted using R, with heterogeneity evaluated by the I² statistic. Results Out of 3,982 records, 14 studies met the eligibility criteria, yielding a pooled prevalence of dengue and leptospirosis co-infection at 2.33% (95% CI: 1.41–3.46%) across 16,638 participants, with significant heterogeneity (I² = 90%). The prediction interval for co-infection ranged from 0.05 to 7.27%. The pooled mortality rate among co-infected patients was 9.96% (95% CI: 0–53.49%), with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 71%). The prediction interval for mortality ranged from 0.00 to 100%. Publication bias was indicated by an LFK index of 2.52. Conclusion This meta-analysis revealed a moderate prevalence and a notable mortality rate for dengue and leptospirosis co-infections, with significant variability observed across different studies. Further research into the immunopathology and the implementation of integrated surveillance systems could enhance the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment strategies in regions where these diseases are endemic.

Abstract Background Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease that has seen a resurgence in recent years, with outbreaks reaching beyond its traditional endemic zones in Central and West Africa to parts of Europe and North America. The relationship between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and mpox outcomes, particularly hospitalization rates, remains underexplored despite the known immunosuppressive effects of HIV. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify the association between HIV infection and the likelihood of hospitalization in mpox cases. Methods A literature search was conducted through PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library up until August 10, 2024. The eligibility criteria focused on observational studies that evaluated hospitalization rates among mpox cases, distinguishing between HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for evaluating study quality. The meta-analysis used a random-effects model to accommodate expected study heterogeneity using R software (V. 4.4). Results The search yielded 686 records, with 14 studies meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria after screenings and full-text assessments. The pooled analysis revealed a 56.6% increased risk of hospitalization among HIV-positive mpox cases compared to HIV-negative individuals (95% CI: 18.0–107.7%). Notable heterogeneity (I² = 76%) was observed, likely reflecting variations in study settings and methodologies. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings, and no significant publication bias was detected (Egger’s test p-value = 0.733). Conclusion HIV infection is associated with a statistically significant increased risk of hospitalization in mpox cases. There is a critical need for integrated care and enhanced surveillance, especially in populations with high HIV prevalence. Our findings emphasize the importance of ongoing research to better understand HIV and mpox co-infection and to refine management strategies for this vulnerable group. Future studies should focus on long-term outcomes and the effectiveness of various management strategies across different healthcare settings.

Abstract Since its discovery nearly 60 years ago, TolC has been associated with various cellular functions in Escherichia coli, including the efflux of environmental stressors and virulence factors. It also acts as a receptor for specific bacteriophages and the colicin E1 toxin. This review highlights key discoveries over the past six decades and emphasizes the remaining gaps in understanding how TolC contributes to physiological functions in E. coli.

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare delivery systems worldwide, necessitating a re-evaluation of patient satisfaction metrics and experiences within this altered landscape. These changes, while ensuring continuity of care, posed unique challenges, including accessibility, technological adaptation and the maintenance of the quality of patient interactions. In addition, healthcare facilities faced immense strain due to resource allocation, workforce shortages and heightened safety protocols. This unprecedented shift underscores the need to explore how these systemic adaptations have influenced patient satisfaction and shaped their overall healthcare experience in a postpandemic context. Aim: To explore the qualitative aspects of patient satisfaction in healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying key factors that influenced patient experiences and perceptions. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research design was employed, utilising an in-depth interviews with patients who accessed healthcare services during the pandemic. The study was conducted in New Delhi, India, among COVID-19 survivors during the period of July 2023 to June 2024. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee of Amity University (AUUP/IEC/2023/4). Thematic analysis was conducted to identify common themes and insights regarding patient satisfaction. Statistical analysis was performed using the R platform for data visualisation and thematic analysis. Results: The findings revealed several critical themes influencing patient satisfaction, including the accessibility of healthcare services, the quality of communication from healthcare providers, adjustments to telehealth services and the emotional support patients received during their care. Patients expressed both challenges and positive experiences, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in healthcare interactions. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for healthcare systems to adapt to evolving patient needs and expectations, particularly in crisis situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants expressed a range of emotions, from frustration to gratitude, highlighting the complexities of navigating healthcare during an unprecedented time. Enhancing communication, increasing accessibility and fostering emotional support are essential strategies to improve patient satisfaction in future healthcare delivery.

Background: This study’s purpose is to determine if there is a difference in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following shoulder arthroplasty (SA) based upon payer insurance type, with a secondary outcome of determining if any appreciable difference surpasses the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Methods: Subjects undergoing anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty were prospectively enrolled between March 2019 and March 2021. Subjects completed patient reported outcomes measurement information system upper extremity (P-UE), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES), and the simple shoulder test (SST) preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months, postoperatively. Descriptive statistics of baseline patient characteristics and preoperative PROMs (ASES, SST, and P-UE) were compared between insurance types. Results: 143 patients were identified who met the inclusion criteria for this study. There were 98 patients within the Medicare cohort and 45 patients with private insurance. Patients in the Medicare cohort were older (mean age 70.5 vs. 61.3 years), with high proportion of smokers, diabetics, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty compared to the private payor cohort. There were no significant differences between the two cohorts with respect to outcomes scores except for significantly better SST in the private insurance cohort (69.3 vs. 79.4, P = .02). No significant differences were noted for the achievement of MCID between cohorts [P-UE (P = 1.0), ASES (P = .25), and SST (0.52)] and pre-to-postoperative improvements for P-UE (P = .62), ASES (P = .4), or SST (0.66). Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that, at a tertiary-level academic institution in a metropolitan city, payor type does not have significant impact on achieving MCID or pre-to-postoperative improvements in PROMs after SA.

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent form of sustained cardiac arrhythmia, with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increasingly recognized for its potential role in the pathogenesis of AF through mechanisms involving atrial remodeling, inflammation, and fibrosis. This systematic review aims to synthesize available evidence on the association between VEGF and AF, exploring the implications of VEGF as a biomarker and therapeutic target. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science until November 10 2024, selecting studies based on pre-defined criteria that involve adults with AF and measurements of VEGF levels. The selected studies included observational and experimental designs, excluding non-English and methodologically insufficient publications. Narrative synthesis was used for summarising the results. Results Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies show a general trend of elevated VEGF levels in AF patients compared to controls, with significant heterogeneity in findings across studies. VEGF subtypes such as VEGF-A and VEGF-D demonstrated stronger associations with AF risk compared to VEGF-C. These variations point to the complex role of VEGF in AF, influencing factors like angiogenesis, endothelial function, and inflammatory responses. Conclusion VEGF is potentially a significant contributor to AF pathophysiology, with its levels reflecting disease activity. The variability observed across studies suggests a need for standardized measurement approaches and further investigation into VEGF subtypes. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to better understand the causal relationships and the potential of VEGF as a therapeutic target and biomarker in AF management. Clinical trial number Not applicable.

Background and Aim: Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a universal fear that someone else is doing something enjoyable that they are not. It is a growing phenomenon among college students, with many of them constantly checking their phones. The aim of the current study is to investigate the FOMO among university students. Materials and Methods: A study was conducted with a convenience sample of 323 young adults recruited through online platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat. The survey utilized Google Forms, which included informed consent and both the FOMO Scale (a 15-item self-report measure) and the Social Media Addiction Scale-Student Form (SMAS-SF) consisting of 29 items. Participants rated their agreement with each item on a 5-point Likert scale. Results: Three hundred and twenty-three students (190 female and 132 male) responded out of 609 for a response rate of 53.03%. The majority of participants (42%) had a FOMO score between 21–30 and 11–20 (40%). The majority of participants (59%) had an SMAS-SF score between 60 and 89, whereas 27% had a score between 90 and 119. Only 1% of participants had a score between 120 and 145. These results suggest that social media addiction is also a common problem among university students. Conclusion: Excessive smartphone and social media usage, particularly in times of isolation, can give rise to negative outcomes such as FOMO and social comparison, underscoring the importance of promoting healthy digital habits and implementing interventions for overall well-being.

Background: Utilization of institutional maternal delivery is the cornerstone for the health of both mother and child which provides essential emergency care and reduces the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality. The aim of the current study is to analyze the perceptions of pregnant women regarding the place of maternal delivery in Lahaul and Spiti. Materials and Methods: A cross-section study was conducted among 410 pregnant women in remote district of Himachal Pradesh. Data collection was done by multistage random sampling through an interview method using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, and logistic regression were applied to find out the outcomes. Results: Out of 410 study participants, 230 women had perception for utilizing the institutional maternal delivery and 180 had perception to utilize home delivery. More than 80% of women who preferred institutional birth had high severity for medical complications and preterm birth threat. The women who attended more than 4 antenatal care (ANC) visits had 2.86 more chances to go for hospital birth (confidence interval [CI] = 0.41–4.23, P < 0.05). The odds of women who believed in high perceived threat in home delivery had 1.99 more chances to go for institutional maternal delivery. Conclusion: The study highlights that public maternal health policies in the remote areas are to increase the proportion of utilization of institutional maternal deliveries. The policy imperative for remote villages requires to upgrade the weak health infrastructure and boost ANC and transportation facilities for better implementation of government maternity healthcare schemes.

Introduction: Numerous nonpharmacological interventions are being investigated for cardioprotective effects among individuals with acute myocardial infarction (MI) who underwent revascularization. However, results of these trials are contradictory. This review aimed to explore the emerging nonpharmacological interventions to prevent myocardial reperfusion injury (RI). Materials and Methods: This review followed Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion pattern for nonsystematic reviews. Article published form 2015 to November 2023 were retrieved from PubMed, Science direct, and Scopus. Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes, Study design format was used to assess the eligibility of articles where population was ST elevated MI; Intervention was any nonpharmacological interventions such as ischemic postconditioning, therapeutic hypothermia, low level laser therapy (LLLT), remote ischemic conditioning (RIC), and therapeutic hyperoxemia; Comparator can be placebo/sham or control groups, Outcomes were infarct size and cardiac biomarkers and study design can be randomized clinical trials, pre–post experimental studies, etc. Results: 15,889 articles were identified and after duplicate removal and assessing eligibility criteria, 27 articles were included in this review. Out of 27, 7 studies used ischemic post conditioning where only 3 studies revealed improvements in ejection fraction and reduction in cardiac biomarkers; 12 studies employed RIC in which only 2 studies showed improvements in ejection fraction whereas 5 showed reduction in peak cardiac biomarkers, 7 experimental studies used therapeutic hypothermia in which only 1 study showed reduction in infract size postintervention, and one study used LLLT where reduction in cardiac biomarkers was seen postintervention. Conclusion: Ischemic postconditioning and RIC showed significant results on myocardial RI whereas therapeutic hypothermia revealed nonsignificant results in most of the trials and failed to prove its efficacy in preventing Myocardial RI. However, a new intervention LLLT proved to be significantly effective in preventing myocardial RI in one human clinical trial.

Cystic adenomyosis, a rare variant of adenomyosis, poses diagnostic challenges due to its resemblance to other uterine pathologies. We present the case of a 37-year-old multiparous woman with a history of cesarean sections, who presented with heavy menstrual bleeding and progressive pelvic pain. Despite initial medical management, symptoms persisted, prompting further investigation. Ultrasonography initially suggested fibroid degeneration or a neoplastic change, later confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging which showed degenerative changes in fibroid. However, worsening symptoms and failed medical management led to surgical intervention. The patient underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy, revealing cystic spaces filled with altered blood within the myometrium. Histopathological analysis postsurgery confirmed the diagnosis of cystic adenomyosis. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and therapeutic considerations in managing cystic adenomyosis in multiparous women.

Cancer has a high rate of incidence and mortality throughout the world. Although several conventional approaches have been developed for the treatment of cancer, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and thermal therapy, they have remarkable disadvantages which result in inefficient treatment of cancer. For example, immunogenicity, prolonged treatment, non-specificity, metastasis and high cost of treatment, are considered as the major drawbacks of chemotherapy. Therefore, there is a fundamental requirement for the development of breakthrough technologies for cancer suppression. Polysaccharide-based drug delivery systems (DDSs) are the most reliable drug carriers for cancer therapy. Polysaccharides, as a kind of practical biomaterials, are divided into several types, including chitosan, alginates, dextran, hyaluronic acid, cyclodextrin, pectin, etc. Polysaccharides are extracted from different natural resources (like herbal, marine, microorganisms, etc.). The potential features of polysaccharides have made them reliable candidates for therapeutics delivery to cancer sites; the simple purification, ease of modification and functionalization, hydrophilicity, serum stability, appropriate drug loading capacity, biocompatibility, bioavailability, biodegradability and stimuli-responsive and sustained drug release manner are considerable aspects of these biopolymers. This review highlights the practical applications of polysaccharides-based DDSs in pharmaceutical science and cancer therapy.

Abstract This research paper introduces an innovative approach to classify heart rate variability (HRV) time series into paced and spontaneous breathing patterns to reflect changes in the autonomic nervous system. This type of classification is beneficial in wearable devices for stress/relaxation level detection and in deciding therapeutic interventions. The “Multi-Domain Approach” methodology integrates three different techniques: standard HRV features, fuzzy recurrence plot (FRP)-based FRP_GLCM, and empirical mode decomposition-based IMF_FRP_GLCM. The study concentrates on analyzing HRV time series within shorter data segments, aligning with the requirements of contemporary wearable health devices and biofeedback systems. HRV data collected during spontaneous and slow-paced breathing were analyzed across data segments of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 min, incorporating feature selection and reduction methods. Results demonstrated that standard HRV features yielded optimal performance for 5-min segments, achieving an average accuracy of 90%. Interestingly, IMF_FRP features achieved comparable accuracy even for 1-min segments. As segment duration decreased, standard HRV feature accuracy declined while IMF_FRP accuracy stayed intact, eventually matching 5-min segment accuracy levels. The study underscores the surging demand for shorter data segment HRV analysis, driven by advancements in wearable smart watches technology and mobile applications for monitoring health and managing stress.

Reducing carbon emissions is about protecting the future, in which the greatest treasures are clean air, a stable temperature and a thriving planet, not only about saving the environment. Using Hill's (1997) model, this study investigates how environmental factors might be included in inventory control—more especially, how trade credit, fuel prices, and pollution taxes might be used. This paper explores the continuous difficulty of keeping a regular supply of high-quality products in the dynamic market of today, where the possibility of providing faulty goods never disappears. This study aims primarily to minimise the predicted total cost by means of a derivative-based technique and to identify the ideal order quantity. These findings highlight a strong correlation between lowering carbon emissions and attaining financial savings. This paper emphasises the critical part environmental awareness plays in efficient inventory control. A sensible framework is presented for concurrently lowering prices and carbon emissions by including trade credit into Hill's (1997) model. A numerical example together with a sensitivity analysis shows the model's resilience. Finally, this study emphasises the need to include environmental elements into inventory control plans and provides a workable road to reach both environmental responsibility and financial economy.

This review provides an overview of recent progress made in the field of catalysis using metal-free tetrapyrrolic macrocycles, focusing on calix[4]pyrroles, porphyrins and corroles, which are structurally related to porphyrins. Calix[4]pyrroles are versatile receptors in supramolecular chemistry while porphyrins are considered as ‘pigment of life’ due to their role in vital biological processes. Beyond their natural functions, synthetic porphyrins have been applied in various fields, including organometallic catalysis, dye-sensitized solar cells, sensing, artificial olfactory systems, photodynamic therapy (PDT), anticancer drugs, biochemical probes, and electrochemical devices. Relevant examples of these two pyrrolic macrocycles as metal-free organocatalysts, photocatalysts, and electrocatalysts are presented here. The effect of macrocyclic structural modifications such as their functionalization with different substituents, distortion from planarity, conformational flexibility and rigidity towards catalytic activity are presented, highlighting the potential of these two macrocycles as metal-free catalysts.

Abstract Background Low health literacy can present significant risks throughout pregnancy, impacting both maternal and fetal health outcomes. Those who do not speak the main language of their country of residence are more likely to have lower health literacy. Considering the heightened challenges faced by this demographic in accessing, understanding, and engaging with health information and services, designing and implementing tailored interventions is crucial to mitigate health disparities. This review aims to identify and examine health literacy interventions developed for pregnant women whose first language differs from the language predominantly spoken in their residing country. Methods Electronic databases of Embase and Medline were searched using relevant search terms from their inception to July 2023. Data were extracted and analysed using narrative synthesis. Results Of the 1964 identified records, three were included. The studies were conducted in Australia and Denmark, and ranged in design, including: a cluster randomised controlled trial, mixed methods design; and qualitative design. Health literacy intervention modalities included midwifery education combined with a smartphone application and leaflet, culturally adapted group classes, and informative videos. The interventions were translated into various languages to cater to the target populations. Two studies used the Health Literacy Questionnaire to assess the intervention effectiveness, yielding contrasting results: one showed no improvement, while the other reported increased post-intervention health literacy scores. The third had not yet evaluated intervention effectiveness. Conclusions This review identifies a significant scarcity in health literacy interventions for pregnant women whose first language differs to the predominant language of the country they live in, despite their greater need for support. While few studies were found, their diversity suggests multiple strategies for enhancing health literacy. Bridging this health literacy gap for linguistically diverse pregnant populations could reduce disparities in maternal and fetal outcomes, underscoring the need for targeted, evaluated interventions that actively engage affected women and their support networks. Trial registration Registered with PROSPERO: CRD42023475511. Date of registration: 10.11.23.

Purpose: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to overall interrupted medical care, resulting in disease progression and morbidity. The study aimed to evaluate clinicopathological presentations and severity of eyelid malignancy during the COVID era, comparing the results with patients presented during pre-COVID era and evaluating the reasons for delayed presentation in patients with advanced eyelid malignancy in the COVID-era. Methods: This was a comparative, ambispective observational study. Data regarding demographic, clinical, histopathology, and treatment modalities of confirmed cases of eyelid malignancy admitted during the period from March 2020 to September 2022 (defined as COVID era group) were collected and compared with retrospectively collected data from March 2017 to March 2020 (defined as pre-COVID era group). COVID era patients were further categorized as localized and advanced disease. Patients with advanced eyelid malignancy during COVID era were further subjected to a questionnaire to evaluate the reasons for delayed presentation. Results: In total, 115 patients of eyelid malignancy were studied [COVID era group 40 (35%) and pre-COVID era group 75 (65%)]. A statistically significant increase in the duration of disease (P = 0.0001) and advanced tumor T-stage (P = 0.03) was noticed in the COVID era group. Demographic, histopathology, and ocular morbidity details were similar in both groups. The common reasons that led to delay in presentation and treatment in advanced T-stage patients during the COVID era were fear of acquiring COVID, lockdown, and lack of medical facilities. Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, both hospital- and patient-related factors contributed to delay in presentation, leading to advanced-stage disease indicating need of triaging of eyelid malignancy in the event of such pandemics in future.

Introduction: Many countries from South-East Asia reported an epidemic of sino-orbital mucormycosis (SOM), otherwise a rare disease, during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. SOM, a potentially fatal disease, is typically treated with orbital exenteration and systemic antifungals after metabolic stabilization. There is no clear evidence of survival benefit of exenteration in the literature, and thus, there have been attempts at globe conserving treatments like orbital infusion after limited debridement and intraorbital injections with Amphotericin B (IOAB). Methods: We conducted a prospective comparative interventional study at a tertiary eye care hospital to evaluate treatment outcomes with the use of adjunctive IOAB in cases of SOM with mild to moderate orbital disease. Results: Thirty-six patients of SOM with mild to moderate orbital disease were recruited in the study. In the intervention group, 23/26 (885%) eyes had stable orbital disease at the end of treatment (4–6 weeks). No deterioration in visual acuity was noted as a result of treatment. In 8/26 (30.77%) patients, inflammation was noted as a side effect of IOAB requiring temporary discontinuation of injections. The mean follow-up for cases was 14.2 months (range 12–15 months). 1/23 (4.35%) patients had relapse of orbital disease at 3 months. Twenty-one patients are alive on last follow-up. Of the patients who refused treatment (controls), 2/9 (22.22%) patients relapsed. One of these patients with relapse underwent exenteration, while the other was managed with IOAB. At a follow-up of 14 months (range 12–15 months), eight patients are alive. On evaluating the ocular parameters in salvaged eyes, improvement in extraocular movements was noted in 75–80% cases. The degree of proptosis and resistance to retropulsion did not change significantly. Conclusion: In the current study, an improvement in the globe salvage rates was noted in cases of SOM with mild to moderate orbital disease treated with adjunctive IOAB as compared to controls at a mean follow-up of 14 months, although it did not achieve statistical significance. The study supports the inclusion of IOAB in routine management of mild to moderate orbital disease.

This was a prospective, interventional, comparative study conducted on patients with congenital simple severe ptosis. A novel method of silicone rod fixation to the tarsus (tarsal tunnel technique, group 1) was done compared with a conventional technique of silicone rod fixation (suture fixation technique, group 2) in frontalis suspension surgery. A total of 30 patients were randomized into two groups of 15 patients each. Postoperatively, MRD1, vertical palpebral aperture, and eyelid fold height were comparable in both groups till the last follow-up with stability in eyelid position. Patient satisfaction scores showed similar results with good-fair satisfaction grading in 13 patients in group 1 and 11 patients in group 2 at 6 months follow-up. No significant complications occurred in either group. Tarsal tunnel fixation of silicone rods is a novel method in sling surgery with optimal cosmetic and function outcomes. Further long-term studies are needed to validate the results of the technique.

Abstract International climate agreements are one of the best-known approaches to coordinating climate actions among governments but face a free-rider problem, where individual governments lack sufficient incentives to reduce emissions. This study examines the role of investors in providing rewards to governments through sovereign bond yields to encourage climate cooperation and reduce emission intensity. Using a difference-in-differences method, this study examines how sovereign bond yields change around the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The findings show that investors reward governments committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions with a 4 to 5 basis point decrease in sovereign bond yields. This suggests that investors better compensate countries making significant commitments to climate agreements, helping mitigate the free-rider problem and encouraging effective climate action.

Abstract Pediatric skulls change rapidly in size and shape during development, especially for children up to 8 years of age. This project was developed to address the gap in understanding of the three-dimensional growth parameters of the human skull during this period and the impact these growth patterns have on fontanelle closure and suture formation. This study offers novel data on the dynamic changes in the anatomy of the skull with the intention of providing better guidance for pediatric surgical care. Craniometric landmarks defined on three-dimensional computed tomography reconstructions were used to map skull development in children aged 0 to 8 years old. A total of 364 datasets were analyzed and statistically representative 3D skulls with anatomical craniometric features such as head shape, bone size, suture and fontanelle closure time were generated for 17 age groups spanning birth to 8 years of age to provide a comprehensive neuroanatomical understanding of how the pediatric skull changes over time. This study indicates that the cranial bones follow a non-linear growth pattern, with the occipital and frontal bones driving the directionality of fontanelle closure and delivers a 3D visualization of the developmental characteristics of the skull providing a landmark resource for understanding the growth dynamics of the human skull. While clinical measurements remain valid approaches for the planning of surgical interventions, these 3D models may provide a more accurate planning paradigm.

Abstract A metamaterial-incorporated high-gain and broadband dipole antenna is proposed for 5G mm-wave applications. The designed high refractive index metamaterial (HRIM) properties are presented in detail with supporting results. The proposed dipole antenna achieved broadband features, and the antenna gain increased significantly by incorporating HRIM in the electromagnetic (EM) wave propagation path. Besides, the EM wave aggregation engineering of utilizing the HRIM on the dipole antenna is analyzed using the electric field, magnetic field, and power flow distributions. Both conventional and HRIM-based dipole antenna (HRIMDA) were fabricated on thin (0.254 mm) Rogers RT5880 substrate material with a low dielectric constant of 2.2, where the noticeable gain enhancement by HRIM is observed. The measured results show the operational bandwidth (BW) from 23 to 38 GHz frequency, and the highest gain of 9.5 dBi is accomplished at 35 GHz frequency. Finally, a four-element MIMO configuration is numerically and experimentally analyzed where the isolation of the two conjugated MIMO elements is 9.9 were also achieved. Hence, the proposed HRIM base dipole antenna is a potential candidate for 5G mm-wave applications.

In India, amphidiploid Brassica juncea (AABB, 2n=36) is a significant oilseed crop, but its small gene pool limits its ability to develop traits of higher breeding and economic value. Through interspecific hybridization from various lines of the progenitor species, resynthesized B. juncea (RBJ) can provide breeders with additional resources for creating genetically diverse stress-tolerant and high-yielding cultivars. Three B. rapa accessions and eight B. nigra accessions were crossed in this study to develop 33 synthetic B. juncea lines. A total of 28 crosses were attempted, including the three-way crosses, but only the cross combinations with B. rapa cytoplasm led to successful embryonic development. Molecular diversity analysis of these lines in S2 generation revealed significant genetic diversity with higher levels of heterozygosity and allelic richness, along with significant variations for the yield-related traits. These results suggest that the synthesized lines could effectively enrich the genetic base of B. juncea and generate variability for agronomically important traits in a shorter time duration. The characterized variability in the synthetic lines needs to be utilized in hybridization, with already evolved genotypes, in early generations before it is lost due to chromosomal rearrangements, recombination and natural selection.

Modernizing power systems into smart grids has introduced numerous benefits, including enhanced efficiency, reliability, and integration of renewable energy sources. However, this advancement has also increased vulnerability to cyber threats, particularly False Data Injection Attacks (FDIAs). Traditional Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) often fall short in identifying sophisticated FDIAs due to their reliance on predefined rules and signatures. This paper addresses this gap by proposing a novel IDS that utilizes hybrid feature selection and deep learning classifiers to detect FDIAs in smart grids. The main objective is to enhance the accuracy and robustness of IDS in smart grids. The proposed methodology combines Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) for hybrid feature selection, ensuring the selection of the most relevant features for detecting FDIAs. Additionally, the IDS employs a hybrid deep learning classifier that integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks to capture the smart grid data's spatial and temporal features. The dataset used for evaluation, the Industrial Control System (ICS) Cyber Attack Dataset (Power System Dataset) consists of various FDIA scenarios simulated in a smart grid environment. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed IDS framework significantly outperforms traditional methods. The hybrid feature selection effectively reduces the dimensionality of the dataset, improving computational efficiency and detection performance. The hybrid deep learning classifier performs better in key metrics, including accuracy, recall, precision, and F-measure. Precisely, the proposed approach attains higher accuracy by accurately identifying true positives and minimizing false negatives, ensuring the reliable operation of smart grids. Recall is enhanced by capturing critical features relevant to all attack types, while precision is improved by reducing false positives, leading to fewer unnecessary interventions. The F-measure balances recall and precision, indicating a robust and reliable detection system. This study presents a practical dual-hybrid IDS framework for detecting FDIAs in smart grids, addressing the limitations of existing IDS techniques. Future research should focus on integrating real-world smart grid data for validation, developing adaptive learning mechanisms, exploring other bio-inspired optimization algorithms, and addressing real-time processing and scalability challenges in large-scale deployments.

ABSTRACT Sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) regulates sex hormone availability and is influenced by metabolic factors. Variations in SHBG levels during pregnancy may affect the development of hypertensive disorders such as gestational hypertension (GH) and preeclampsia (PE). This systematic review and meta‐analysis explores the potential of SHBG as a biomarker for predicting GH and PE. A search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted to identify studies evaluating the association between SHBG levels and the risk of HDP, including GH and PE. Inclusion criteria encompassed observational studies reporting quantitative risk estimates (risk ratios, odds ratios, or hazard ratios) for SHBG levels. Results were pooled using a random‐effects meta‐analysis in R software (V 4.4), with the I2 statistic assessing heterogeneity. Eight studies were included in the systematic review from a total of 592 screened records. The association between SHBG levels and the risk of any HDP showed a pooled OR of 0.875 (95% CI: 0.772–0.993), for PE 0.890 (95% CI: 0.767–1.032), and for GH 0.729 (95% CI: 0.442–1.205), suggesting significant association between SHBG and HDP. Sensitivity analysis validated the robustness of the findings. This meta‐analysis found potential significant association between higher SHBG levels and risk of HDP. Further high‐quality research is required to better understand the role of SHBG in pregnancy‐related hypertensive disorders. Future studies should consider larger sample sizes, more precise measurement techniques, and explore potential confounding factors to clarify the potential utility of SHBG as a biomarker for predicting GH and PE.

In Ayurvedic texts, Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) have been known as the most potent and important medicinal product. Giloy leaves have been used for centuries to cure various ailments and diseases in the human body. This review highlights that giloy leaves have immunomodulatory properties and can be used to develop functional food products. The current review focuses on the phytochemical composition of giloy leaves, and the mechanism for their immunomodulatory action highlighting specific pathways including NF-kB pathway and interleukin modulation. Giloy leaves possess antioxidant activity and induce apoptosis of cells in the immune response. Studies have shown the potential of incorporating giloy leaves into a wide range of value-added products, such as beverages, biscuits, and herbal formulations, to bridge traditional knowledge with modern functional food production. A comparison of traditional and modern giloy-based products demonstrates their benefits and drawbacks, showing that traditional techniques can be combined with modern scientific developments to improve medicinal efficacy. Although giloy leaves-based products show promising potential, further research is necessary to ascertain their effectiveness.

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have attracted significant attention in recent years due to its environment friendly characteristics and its participation in the multi-heteroatom doping of carbon quantum dots (CQDs). In this work, we present a simple, fast, and environment-friendly microwave synthesis approach for the synthesis of DES-assisted nitrogen and chloride co-doped CQDs (N,Cl-CQDs) using a choline chloride-urea based DES. A biomass-based precursor, i.e., wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum), has been used as a carbon source. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the spherical shape with average 1.75 nm particle diameter of prepared CQDs. The surface functionality and chemical composition of prepared N,Cl-CQDs were determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic techniques. The N,Cl-CQDs obtained a high quantum yield (QY), i.e., 36 %, compared to undoped CQDs, which were synthesized in an aqueous medium (QY = 15 %). The prepared N,Cl-CQDs showed significant properties such as excellent photostability, favorable water solubility, and high optical stability. N,Cl-CQDs were used as sensing platform for the detection of Hg2+ ions and GSH with LOD value of 39 nM and 43 nM, respectively. The fluorescence quenching mechanism was confirmed by several photophysical parameters, such as average lifetime values, radiative rate constant (kr), non-radiative rate constant (knr) and others. Furthermore, the current sensing system's viability is also tested in a river water sample for the detection of Hg2+. The N,Cl-CQDs prepared in this study exhibited a reduced detection limit and a broad linear range by an easy, environmentally friendly, and rapid method for detecting GSH and Hg2+ ions.

Pancreatic cancer has the worst prognosis of all common tumors. Earlier cancer diagnosis could increase survival rates and better assessment of metastatic disease could improve patient care. As such, there is an urgent need to develop biomarkers to diagnose this deadly malignancy. Analyzing circulating extracellular vesicles (cEVs) using ‘liquid biopsies’ offers an attractive approach to diagnose and monitor disease status. However, it is important to differentiate EV-associated proteins enriched in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) from those with benign pancreatic diseases such as chronic pancreatitis and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). To meet this need, we combined the novel EVtrap method for highly efficient isolation of EVs from plasma and conducted proteomics analysis of samples from 124 individuals, including patients with PDAC, benign pancreatic diseases and controls. On average, 912 EV proteins were identified per 100 µL of plasma. EVs containing high levels of PDCD6IP, SERPINA12, and RUVBL2 were associated with PDAC compared to the benign diseases in both discovery and validation cohorts. EVs with PSMB4, RUVBL2, and ANKAR were associated with metastasis, and those with CRP, RALB, and CD55 correlated with poor clinical prognosis. Finally, we validated a seven EV protein PDAC signature against a background of benign pancreatic diseases that yielded an 89% prediction accuracy for the diagnosis of PDAC. To our knowledge, our study represents the largest proteomics profiling of circulating EVs ever conducted in pancreatic cancer and provides a valuable open-source atlas to the scientific community with a comprehensive catalogue of novel cEVs that may assist in the development of biomarkers and improve the outcomes of patients with PDAC.

This paper proposed a novel design of planar microwave sensor aimed at distinguishing and analyzing the permittivity properties of regular solid materials with high sensitivity for C and X band applications. These sensor utilize a planar backbone-shaped metamaterial resonator with spur line filters, which intensify the electric field. This approach allows the permittivity characteristics of the resonator to influence factors like resonance frequency shifting and notably high sensitivity, reaching 6.61 % at reflection mode. The sensitivity of these sensor is validated using common materials (Rogers 4350B, Rogers RT5880, UL1250 and FR-4) through the specific experimental methodology. The measured results agree well with the simulated results, and this validation process permits the potential characterization and detection of materials. Furthermore, the paper derives a mathematical formula to obtain the properties of materials using resonance frequency shifting. Consequently, proposed sensor represent a promising solution for characterizing material permittivity properties.

The research aims to evaluate effectiveness of natural clam shell derived adsorbents for the treatment of azo dyes. The nanomaterials were synthesized via hydrothermal methods, and their adsorption capacities were scrutinized against a spectrum of dyes, including methylene blue (MB), crystal violet (CV), rhodamine B (RB), malachite green (MG), safranin (SR), as well as commercial red and blue dyes. Remarkably, the clam shell nanoparticles (CSNPs) exhibited notable dye removal efficiencies, achieving removal rates of approximately 87%, 89%, 97.75%, 97.60%, and 97.11% for MB, RB, CV, MG, and SR, respectively. These removal rates were accomplished within varied interaction times ranging from 45 to 10 min, utilizing a dose of 100 mg/L of nanoadsorbent. Furthermore, the nanomaterials displayed removal efficiencies exceeding 80% against commercial blue and red dyes. Considering their exceptional adsorption capacities, clam shell nanomaterials stand out as cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly biosorbents for effectively removing dyes from aqueous solutions. This study highlights the promising potential of clam shell-based nanomaterials in addressing the challenges presented by water pollution.

This work aims to study the effect of Zr-Ni dopant on the structure and traits of M-type barium calcium hexaferrites (BaCaM). For the first time, Ba0.8Ca0.2ZrxNixFe12–2xO19 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) samples are synthesized employing the SGACM (sol-gel auto-combustion method). The pure phase formation of BaCaM was established by XRD data Rietveld refinement. An augmentation in both the lattice parameters (‘a’ as well as ‘c’) owing to the higher ionic radii of dopant ions as compared to Fe3+ shows that Ni2+and Zr4+ions were successfully swapped with Fe3⁺. The ''c/a'' ratio lies between 3.93–3.96 disclosing that the synthesized materials possess an M-type hexagonal ferrite structure. The reduction in crystallite with an increase in doping level might be due to lattice strain generated by the larger size of Ni2+ and Zr4+ dopant ions. The presence of two bands in the wavenumber range of 400 to 880 cm-1 in FTIR spectra corresponds to the Fe–O stretching in octahedral and tetrahedral locations. The Raman peaks widen without any shifting of the peak with an increment in Ni2+-Zr4+ ions contents revealing that Ni2+-Zr4+ are incorporated into BaCaM without changing its crystal structure. According to the M-H plots Ms value enhance from 24.94 (x = 0.00) to 36.84 emu/g (x = 0.60) and beyond x = 0.60, Ms values drop with an increment in Ni2+-Zr4+substitution level. A broad coercivity range lies between 4858 Oe (x = 0.0) to 653 Oe (x = 1.0), decreasing monotonically with substitution in Ni2+-Zr4+. All the synthesized material exhibits a reduction in dielectric constant value as frequency increases. Ni-Zr-doped BaCaM materials could be a suitable candidate for magnetic recording media and microwave absorber applications.

A series of porous organic polymers based on a singlet oxygen generating oxoporphyinogen (‘OxP’) has been successfully prepared from a pseudotetrahedral OxP-tetraamine precursor (OxP(4-NH2Bn)4) by its reaction with tetracarboxylic acid dianhydrides under suitable conditions. Of the compounds studied, those containing naphthalene (OxP-N) and perylene (OxP-P) spacers, respectively, have large surface areas (~530 m2 g−1). On the other hand, the derivative with a simple benzene spacer (OxP-B) exhibits the best 1O2 generating capability. Although the starting OxP-tetraamine precursor is a poor 1O2 generator, its incorporation into OxP POPs leads to a significant enhancement of 1O2 productivity, which is largely due to the transformation of NH2 groups to electron-withdrawing diimides. Overall 1O2 production efficacy of OxP-POPs under irradiation by visible light is significantly improved over the common reference material PCN-222. All the materials OxP-B, OxP-N and OxP-P promote oxidation of thioanisole involving conversion of ambient triplet state oxygen to singlet oxygen under visible light irradiation and its reaction with the sulfide. Although the reaction rate of the oxidation promoted by OxP POPs is generally lower than for conventional materials (such as PCN-222) or previously studied OxP derivatives, undesired overoxidation of the substrate to methyl phenyl sulfone is suppressed. For organic sulfides, selectivity of oxidation is especially important for detoxification of mustard gas (bis(2-chloroethyl)sulfide) or similarly toxic compounds since controlled oxidation leads to the low toxicity bis(2-chloroethyl)sulfoxide while overoxidation leads to intoxification (since bis(2-chloroethyl)sulfone presents greater toxicity to humans than the sulfide substrate). Therefore, OxP POPs capable of promoting selective oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides have excellent potential to be used as mild and selective detoxification agents.

The study aimed to develop a silkworm pupae protein-based film for enhancing the lipid oxidative and microbial stability of cheddar cheese. The bioactive properties were imparted to the silkworm pupae protein-based film using an optimum level (2.0%) of Catharanthus roseus leaf extract-based nanoparticles (Cat-Ros-NPs) synthesised following a green method. The cheese samples were packaged within the treated film (T2, containing 2.0% Cat-Ros-NPs) and compared with control samples [control (cheese samples without any film), T0 (cheese samples within the films without any bioactive agent) and T1 {cheese samples within the films containing 2.0% C. roseus leaf extract (Cat-Ros-Ext)}] during 90 days trial (4±1 °C). The addition of bioactive agents (Cat-Ros-Ext or Cat-Ros-NPs) increased the thickness (µm) as well as density (g/ml) of the film, thereby decreasing the transmittance (%), solubility (%), moisture content (%), and water-vapour transmission rate (mg/mt2). Both the bioactive agents increased the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) whereas decreased the brightness (L*) of the film. The films enhanced the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the enclosed cheese samples during storage and the highest values were recorded for the samples packed within T2 films. The cheese samples packaged within T2 and T1 films showed significantly lower values for lipid oxidation and microbial counts. This positive effect of the films (T2 and T1) was also recorded on protein oxidation (total-carbonyl content) after day 30 and sensory quality after day 60. Our results indicate the successful use of silkworm pupae protein for the development of bioactive packaging for cheddar cheese.

The recent global resurgence of Mpox (formerly monkeypox), primarily transmitted via close contact and respiratory droplets, highlights a significant shift in its epidemiology, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). This resurgence underscores the need for robust public health responses and improved surveillance. This comprehensive review of current literature focuses on recent outbreaks, virology, and available treatments. Epidemiological data were gathered from various international health reports and analysed to understand transmission dynamics and outbreak patterns. Mpox, characterised by symptoms like fever and rash, has shown variable clinical presentations, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. Recent outbreaks have prompted the development of new diagnostic methods and treatments, including antivirals like Tecovirimat and vaccines such as MVA-BN. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of these vaccines in preventing infection, which is crucial for outbreak containment. The global response to the Mpox resurgence requires integrated strategies combining vaccination, antiviral treatments, and public health policies tailored to high-risk populations. Future efforts should focus on vaccine distribution equity and enhancing diagnostic capabilities to effectively manage and mitigate the impact of Mpox.

Late-presenting congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is an unusual case. It rarely appears apart from the neonate. We report the case of a 3-month-old male infant presented with a history of recurrent chest infections and breathlessness for the past 4 days. Examination revealed the signs of respiratory distress in the form of subtitles and tachypnea; there was no air entry on the left side but bowel sounds were audible better heart sounds could be auscultated to right. A chest X-ray showed a suspicion of left-sided CDH. Subsequently, the patient was transferred to operation theater farminent. Laparotomy surgery was done under general anesthesia. Note intraoperatively bowel and spleen were reduced from the thoracic cavity and delivered through this posterolateral defect. Following insertion of a chest tube and repositioning the herniated organs back into abdominal cavity, closure was performed. The patient recovered uneventfully with an improvement of the postoperative radiograph. With time, he improved and was able to tolerate oral feeds.

Abstract In therapeutic diagnostics, early diagnosis and monitoring of heart disease is dependent on fast time-series MRI data processing. Robust encryption techniques are necessary to guarantee patient confidentiality. While deep learning (DL) algorithm have improved medical imaging, privacy and performance are still hard to balance. In this study, a novel approach for analyzing homomorphivally-encrypted (HE) time-series MRI data is introduced: The Multi-Faceted Long Short-Term Memory (MF-LSTM). This method includes privacy protection. The MF-LSTM architecture protects patient’s privacy while accurately categorizing and forecasting cardiac disease, with accuracy (97.5%), precision (96.5%), recall (98.3%), and F1-score (97.4%). While segmentation methods help to improve interpretability by identifying important region in encrypted MRI images, Generalized Histogram Equalization (GHE) improves image quality. Extensive testing on selected dataset if encrypted time-series MRI images proves the method’s stability and efficacy, outperforming previous approaches. The finding shows that the suggested technique can decode medical image to expose visual representation as well as sequential movement while protecting privacy and providing accurate medical image evaluation.

Pollen health is a key determinant of successful plant reproduction and crop yield. Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) and prune dwarf virus (PDV) are pollen-borne viruses of stone fruits, including peaches, primarily transmitted through vegetative propagation (i.e., grafting) and pollen. Here, we investigated the effects of PNRSV and PDV infection on peach pollen morphology, viability, and germination. Our scanning electron microscopy on pollen morphology, as well as pollen viability and germination assays, showed that PNRSV has cultivar-specific effects on pollen health; compared with pollen from virus-negative trees, PNRSV infection resulted in distorted shape, reduced viability, and germination of pollen grains of peach cultivar Red Top, but no significant effects on viability or germination were detected on cultivar Zee Lady pollen grains. PDV infection affected pollen width and reduced pollen viability but did not affect pollen germination when compared between PDV-positive and PDV-negative pollen grains. We discuss our results in terms of potential evolutionary consequences and implications on virus epidemiology and disease management in orchards. Investigating the effects of viral infection on pollen health will ultimately enhance our understanding of the transmission of pollen-borne viruses. [Figure: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.

Abstract The local interaction within poly(vinylidene fluoride)/poly(3,4‐ethyelenedioxythiophene):poly(styrelenesulfonate) (PVDF/PEDOT:PSS) composite films has been explored in this study. Vibrational and impedance spectroscopy were used extensively to investigate the potential interactions within the moieties of PVDF and PEDOT:PSS in the composite. The increased concentration of PEDOT:PSS used as additives enhanced the dielectric constant of the composite films significantly. Both the AC conductivity and the estimated mobility also increased in the composite films with increasing additives. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy gave an insight into the local chain interactions within the polymer composite films. A shift in the C K‐edge toward higher energy confirmed the local interaction of the polymer moieties, suggesting a change in the polymer chain structure due to the possible association of moieties.

Carbon emissions can be decreased by adopting the carbon cap-and-alternate policy. The current study suggests a carbon buying and selling mechanism for things that are deteriorating or of poor quality while taking into account chilled logistics services in a fresh food supply chain. In addition to deliveries of perishables, suppliers also provide retailers with chilled logistics services and carbon emission certificates for excess inventory. The retail price, the cost of chilled strategies, and the contributions to various carbon trading options—such as internal carbon trade, external carbon exchange, and carbon exchange both internally and externally for the destruction of low-quality goods have all been evaluated in this paper. The store network members give estimating systems to new food, emanation permits and refrigerated planned operations administrations. We likewise uncover the connection between carbon purchasing and advancing and refrigerated strategies administrations and test out their joint effect on the provider retailer's helpful dating. Store network donors are also encouraged to participate in the carbon exchanging mechanism, which benefits from more sophisticated asset utilisation and more ruthless stockpile chains. The numerical examples have helped to validate the results. In the end, a thorough sensitivity analysis has been provided.

Abstract Background Salinity is a significant abiotic stress that affects plants from germination through all growth stages. This study was aimed to determine the morpho-physiological and genetic variations in BC1F2, BC2F1 and F3 generations resulting from the cross combination WH1105 × Kharchia 65. Results A significant reduction in germination percentage was observed under salt stress in BC1F2 and F3 seeds. Correlation, heritability in the broad sense, phenotypic coefficient of variability (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variability (GCV) were measured for all traits. The presence of both Nax1 and Nax2 loci was confirmed in twenty-nine plants using the marker-assisted selection technique. Genetic relationships among the populations were assessed using twenty-four polymorphic SSR markers. Conclusion Cluster analysis along with two and three-dimensional PCA scaling (Principal Component Analysis) revealed the distinct nature of WH 1105 and Kharchia 65. Six plants closer to the recurrent parent (WH1105) selected through this study can serve as valuable genetic material for salt-tolerant wheat improvement programs.

Abstract This study aims to develop predictive models for rice yield by applying multivariate techniques. It utilizes stepwise multiple regression, discriminant function analysis and logistic regression techniques to forecast crop yield in specific districts of Haryana. The time series data on rice crop have been divided into two and three classes based on crop yield. The yearly time series data of rice yield from 1980–81 to 2020–21 have been taken from various issues of Statistical Abstracts of Haryana. The study also utilized fortnightly meteorological data sourced from the Agrometeorology Department of CCS HAU, India. For comparing various predictive models' performance, evaluation of measures like Root Mean Square Error, Predicted Error Sum of Squares, Mean Absolute Deviation and Mean Absolute Percentage Error have been used. Results of the study indicated that discriminant function analysis emerged as the most effective to predict the rice yield accurately as compared to logistic regression. Importantly, the research highlighted that the optimum time for forecasting the rice yield is 1 month prior to the crops harvesting, offering valuable insight for agricultural planning and decision-making. This approach demonstrates the fusion of weather data and advanced statistical techniques, showcasing the potential for more precise and informed agricultural practices.

Abstract The concept, performance, and analyses of distinctive, miniaturized metamaterial (MTM) unit cell addressing the forthcoming Sub 6 GHz 5G applications are presented in this paper. Two circular split-ring resonators (CSRR) with two parallel rectangular copper elements in front of the design and a slotted square element in the background make up the suggested metamaterial. It has a line segment with tunable features that is positioned in the center of the little ring copper structure. The suggested design offers a significant operating frequency band of 220 MHz together with a resonance of transmission coefficient S21 at 3.5 GHz. Furthermore, in two (z & x) principal axes of wave propagation, wide-range achievement, single/double-negative (S/DNG) refractive index, negative permittivity, and near-zero permeability properties were demonstrated. Through varying central slotted-strip line length, resonance frequencies can be selectively altered. Moreover, the metamaterial has overall dimensions of 9 × 9 mm2 and is composed on a Rogers 5880 RT substrate. In order to create the suggested MTM's equivalent circuit, which shows similar coefficient of transmission (S21), a proposed design’s numerical simulation is carried out in the CST micro-wave studio. This simulation is after that put to comparison with manufacturing of the design.

Abstract We empirically examined the effectiveness of how the Analysis of Competing Hypotheses (ACH) technique structures task information to help reduce confirmation bias (Study 1) and the portrayal of intelligence analysts as suffering from such bias (Study 2). Study 1 (N = 161) showed that individuals presented with hypotheses in rows and evidence items in columns were significantly less likely to demonstrate confirmation bias, whereas those presented with the ACH-style matrix (with hypotheses in columns and evidence items in rows) or a paragraph of text (listing the evidence for each hypothesis) were not less likely to demonstrate bias. The ACH-style matrix also did not confer any benefits regarding increasing sensitivity to evidence credibility. Study 2 showed that the majority of 62 Dutch military analysts did not suffer from confirmation bias and were sensitive to evidence credibility. Finally, neither judgmental coherence nor cognitive reflection differentiated between better or worse performers in the hypotheses evaluation tasks.

Abstract Introduction Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory infection in children worldwide. Understanding its prevalence, variations, and characteristics is vital, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective The study aimed to investigate the RSV positivity rate, subtype prevalence, age and gender distribution, symptomatology, and co-infection rates during pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Methods We analyzed data from 15,381 patients tested for RSV between 2017 and 2023. Results Our analysis revealed a 7.2% average RSV positivity rate in the pre-pandemic period, with significant fluctuations during the pandemic (1.5% in 2020 to 32.0% in 2021). We observed variations in RSVA and RSVB detection rates. The 0–4 years’ age group was consistently the most affected, with a slight male predominance. Fever and cough were common symptoms. Therapeutic interventions, particularly antiviral usage and ventilation requirements, decreased during the pandemic. We also identified variations in co-infection rates with other respiratory viruses. Conclusion Our study offers critical insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on RSV prevalence, subtype distribution, patient characteristics, and clinical management. These findings underscore the need for ongoing surveillance and adaptive public health responses.

The efficient and effective operation of trommel screens is essential for the economic and environmental sustainability of mechanical biological treatment (MBT) based solid waste treatment plants. The present study evaluated the performance of four trommel screens (aperture sizes of 80, 32, 16, and 4 mm) being used at the MBT plant of the Municipal Corporation Karnal, India. The performance of trommel screens was evaluated at a fixed speed of rotation and inclination angle. For optimum performance, trommel screens must be operated at a particular range of feed rates with regular cleaning every four hours of operation. The organic recovery achieved by 80 mm and 32 mm aperture size trommel screen was 26.95 % and 95.82 %. The organic quality improvement achieved by 80 mm and 32 mm trommel screens was 122.50 % and 108.89 %. The trommel screen's heating value improvement and energy recovery ranged from 70.68 % to 135.16 % and 28.27 % to 98.74 %, respectively. The oversized fractions of trommel screens of opening sizes 80 mm and 32 mm meet the fuel specification prescribed by the Indian Solid Waste Management Rules 2016. The trommel screen's Specific Energy Consumption (SEC) ranged from 0.63 kWh/tonne to 5.66 kWh/tonne. The learnings and outcomes of this study are helpful for designers, policymakers, operators of solid waste treatment plants, and researchers.

The purpose of this research paper is to present a framework for selecting a biogas plant for the Indian rural community, considering performability factors such as reliability, quality, maintainability, safety, and sustainability. This will ensure that the plant operates reliably, efficiently, and safely over its entire life cycle and can play a significant role as a decision-support tool for decision-makers (e.g., managers, engineers, stakeholders). The proposed framework integrates the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and the Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) to optimally evaluate and prioritize the best alternative based on performability factors. The findings show that the suitable biogas plant in the context of the Indian rural population is a fixed-dome-type plant. The decision-making process in selecting the best biogas plant can be effectively aided by using this suggested tool. Currently, there are no proper tools or methods for selecting biogas plants for rural areas due to a lack of data or relevant literature on operational issues. The proposed method uses performability factors for the selection, which has not been researched so far. Moreover, the AHP–WASPAS approach offers a robust method for selecting biogas plants, ensuring efficient and sustainable energy production. The proposed method will help policymakers and stakeholders to choose the best biogas plant in the context of Indian rural application.

Thermal oxidative stabilization is a crucial parameter in carbon nanofiber (CNF) synthesis which which is important for the retention of fiber geometry during the rigorous carbonization process. However, its conventional implementation is burdened by significant time and energy expenditures. This study explores the feasibility of circumventing the stabilization step and its repercussions on the properties of lignin-PVA-derived electrospun CNF mats. Electrospun mats were subjected to carbonization after thermal stabilization (St-CNF) and without thermal stabilization (NSt-CNF). The morphological analysis revealed that despite the exclusion of stabilization, the fibrous structure remains intact without fusion. However, its noticeable impact on carbon yield, graphitic content, and defect density of CNF has been observed. In comparison to NSt-CNF, the St-CNF has higher carbon yield and mass loss fraction, suggesting additional cross-linking and thermal stability. Additionally, a higher specific surface area (381.5 m2/g) and pore volume (0.40 cc/g) were also observed in St-CNF compared to NSt-CNF (162.9 m2/g, 0.15 cc/g), enhancing the electrochemical properties such as specific capacitance (191.5 F/g), energy and power density (26.6 Wh/kg at 520.5 W/kg) of St-CNF. This study provides valuable insight into the properties of lignin-based CNFs, prepared by including or excluding the stabilization step, and explores their potential effect in energy storage applications.

Background: Interventions from RCTs can only be replicated and implemented if reported in sufficient detail. This study developed frameworks to assist researchers with describing, monitoring, and reporting the key components of anaesthetic interventions in trials. Methods: This study comprised three phases: (1) initial framework development—text describing the delivery of anaesthetic interventions was coded and categorised into components using thematic analysis; (2) refinement of frameworks—facilitated structured group discussions were conducted with perioperative clinicians, researchers, and journal editors to elicit additional framework categories and consider clarity and feasibility; (3) framework testing and further refinement—cognitive interviews with professionals undertaking trials evaluating anaesthesia interventions to test the feasibility of using the frameworks in contemporary perioperative trials. Results: Three frameworks were developed for general, regional, and sedation anaesthesia interventions. Data saturation of categories within the frameworks was reached after inclusion of 15 RCTs for general and regional anaesthesia, and 13 for sedation. Each framework is structured into three main sections: (1) professional(s) delivering the intervention; (2) setting; and (3) intervention components, with descriptions of the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages unique to each anaesthetic intervention. Each framework deconstructs an anaesthetic intervention into component parts to support researchers with the design and reporting of RCTs. Final frameworks are available at: https://anaesthesiaframeworks.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/. Conclusions: We provide novel frameworks to be used during the design of perioperative trials to facilitate the design, delivery, and reporting of anaesthesia interventions.

This research provides a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of two Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna designs specifically designed for 5G and Wi-Fi 6 technologies. The initial design is a Compact CPW 4 × 4 MIMO Antenna intended for Wi-Fi 6 (IEEE802.11.ax) and 5G (nr77/nr78/nr79) Communications. The second design is a 4 × 4 MIMO Slot Antenna with a Spanner Shape, specifically designed to minimize mutual coupling for Wi-Fi 6 and 5G Communications. The evaluation of these two designs is based on multiple factors including gain, efficiency, bandwidth, and correlation coefficient. The simulation findings indicate that both designs exhibit favourable performance with respect to these criteria. The Compact CPW 4 × 4 MIMO Antenna possesses a gain of 6 dBi, an efficiency of 80%, and a bandwidth of 2.8 GHz. The 4 × 4 MIMO Slot Antenna exhibits a gain of 3.5 dBi, an efficiency of 80%, and a bandwidth of 4.5 GHz. The correlation coefficient between the antennas is low, suggesting a high level of isolation between them. The results indicate that both designs are compatible with 5G and Wi-Fi 6 applications and can offer dependable and effective communication.