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Abstract Background Plantar fasciitis, a common musculoskeletal disorder, is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. The plantar fascia plays a crucial role in supporting the arch of the foot and absorbing shock during movement. Factors such as excessive physical activity, improper footwear, and biomechanical abnormalities are recognized contributors to the development of plantar fasciitis. However, the prevalence and underlying causes may vary across different demographic groups, necessitating targeted investigations. Objective This study aims to investigate the prevalence, causes and treatment of plantar fasciitis in young female students (18–30) of a medical college in Pakistan and explore potential associations with high-heel footwear. Methodology In this study, a cross-sectional survey was carried out, engaging 100 young females from a medical college. Employing a structured questionnaire, we assessed a spectrum of parameters, including heel pain symptoms, footwear habits, and available treatment options. The diagnostic precision of the Windlass test, specific to plantar fasciitis, was incorporated. Rigorous data analysis, utilizing SPSS, centered on discerning associations between the nuances of high-heel wear (considering types and duration) and the reported symptoms. This methodological framework ensures a comprehensive and precise exploration of the prevalence, causes, and treatment of plantar fasciitis in our targeted demographic. Results All the participants were female, and the total number was 100, of which 66% felt pain in the heel when they wore high heels. Out of this 66%, only 6% are diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. The rest of the 60% have pain in the heel due to different causes such as heel spurs, stress fractures, etc. 2% of people receive treatment with steroid injections, and 12% are treated with ice. Conclusion We conclude that the prevalence of plantar fasciitis is high in females wearing high heels. This study reveals that an increase in the total duration of wearing high heels with hard soles increases the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis can be prevented by education and applying ergonomics and could be treated by steroids and the ice method, according to medical practitioners.

Abstract The management of groundwater systems is essential for nations that rely on groundwater as the principal source of communal water supply (e.g., Mohmand District of Pakistan). The work employed Remote Sensing and GIS datasets to ascertain the groundwater recharge zones (GWRZ) in the Mohmand District of Pakistan. Subsequently, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine the impact of geology and hydrologic factors on the variability of the GWRZ. The GWRZ was determined by employing weighted overlay analysis on thematic maps derived from datasets about drainage density, slope, geology, rainfall, lineament density, land use/land cover, and soil types. The use of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) involves the utilization of the multi-influencing factor (MIF) and analytical hierarchy procedure (AHP) to allocate weights to the selected influencing factors. The MIF data found that very high groundwater recharge spanned 1.20%, high zones covered 40.44%, moderate zones covered 50.81%, and low zones covered 7.54%. In comparison, the AHP technique results suggest that 1.81% of the whole area is very high, 33.26 is high, 55.01% is moderate, and 9.92% has low groundwater potential. The geospatial-assisted multi-influencing factor approach helps increase conceptual knowledge of groundwater resources and evaluate possible groundwater zones.

Abstract With the anticipated foliar application of nanoparticles (NPs) as a potential strategy to improve crop production and ameliorate heavy metal toxicity, it is crucial to evaluate the role of NPs in improving the nutrient content of plants under Lead (Pb) stress for achieving higher agriculture productivity to ensure food security. Herein, Brassica napus L. grown under Pb contaminated soil (300 mg/kg) was sprayed with different rates (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L) of TiO2 and ZnO-NPs. The plants were evaluated for growth attributes, photosynthetic pigments, leaf exchange attributes, oxidant and antioxidant enzyme activities. The results revealed that 100 mg/L NPs foliar application significantly augmented plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, and leaf gas exchange attributes. Furthermore, 100 mg/L TiO2 and ZnO-NPs application showed a maximum increase in SPAD values (79.1%, 68.9%). NPs foliar application (100 mg/L TiO2 and ZnO-NPs) also substantially reduced malondialdehyde (44.3%, 38.3%), hydrogen peroxide (59.9%, 53.1%), electrolyte leakage (74.8%, 68.3%), and increased peroxidase (93.8%, 89.1%), catalase (91.3%, 84.1%), superoxide dismutase (81.8%, 73.5%) and ascorbate peroxidase (78.5%, 73.7%) thereby reducing Pb accumulation. NPs foliar application (100 mg/L) significantly reduced root Pb (45.7%, 42.3%) and shoot Pb (84.1%, 76.7%) concentration in TiO2 and ZnO-NPs respectively, as compared to control. Importantly, macro and micronutrient analysis showed that foliar application 100 mg/L TiO2 and ZnO-NPs increased shoot zinc (58.4%, 78.7%) iron (79.3%, 89.9%), manganese (62.8%, 68.6%), magnesium (72.1%, 93.7%), calcium (58.2%, 69.9%) and potassium (81.5%, 68.6%) when compared to control without NPs. The same trend was observed for root nutrient concentration. In conclusion, we found that the TiO2 and ZnO-NPs have the greatest efficiency at 100 mg/L concentration to alleviate Pb induced toxicity on growth, photosynthesis, and nutrient content of Brassica napus L. NPs foliar application is a promising strategy to ensure sustainable agriculture and food safety under metal contamination.

Groundwater is an indispensable source for domestic-use, agriculture, industry and sustainable development. Groundwater scarcity is Pakistan’s emerging issue, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This study intends to demarcate the groundwater potential zones (GWPZ) in these regions using Multi-Influence-Factors (MIF), validated with Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and well data. The study region was classified into four GWPZ: very high (340 km2), high (4997.11 km2), moderate (17615.14 km2) and poor (16355.46 km2). These interpretations were supported by the VES survey, and water bearing layers have been recognized at 32 m, 137 m, 87 m, 10 m at VES points 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively in Karak, and at 152 m, 194 m, and 93 m at VES points 1, 2, and 3, respectively in Lakki Marwat, while at 125 m, 119 m and 80 m at VES points 1, 2 and 3, respectively in D. I. Khan. The southern region is predominantly poor, the northern and northeastern parts are high to very high, while the southwest part has moderate potential. Water depth is

Abstract NS1 is an elusive dengue protein, involved in viral replication, assembly, pathogenesis, and immune evasion. Its levels in blood plasm are positively related to disease severity like thrombocytopenia, hemorrhage, and vascular leakage. Despite its pathogenic roles, NS1 is being used in various vaccine formulations due to its sequence conservancy, ability to produce protective antibodies and low risk for inducing antibody-dependent enhancement. In this study, we have used bioinformatics tools and reported literature to develop an NS1 variant (dNS1). Molecular docking studies were performed to evaluate the receptor-binding ability of the NS1 and dNS1 with TLR4. NS1 and dNS1 (153 to 312 amino acid region) genes were cloned, expressed and protein was purified followed by refolding. Docking studies showed the binding of NS1 and dNS1 with the TLR4 receptor which suggests that N and C-terminal sequences of NS1 are not critical for receptor binding. Antibodies against NS1 and dNS1 were raised in rabbits and binding affinity of anti-dNS1 anti-NS1 sera was evaluated against both NS1 and dNS1. Similar results were observed through western blotting which highlight that N and C-terminal deletion of NS1 does not compromise the immunogenic potential of dNS1 hence, supports its use in future vaccine formulations as a substitute for NS1.

Abstract The oil and gas industry relies on accurately predicting profitable clusters in subsurface formations for geophysical reservoir analysis. It is challenging to predict payable clusters in complicated geological settings like the Lower Indus Basin, Pakistan. In complex, high-dimensional heterogeneous geological settings, traditional statistical methods seldom provide correct results. Therefore, this paper introduces a robust unsupervised AI strategy designed to identify and classify profitable zones using self-organizing maps (SOM) and K-means clustering techniques. Results of SOM and K-means clustering provided the reservoir potentials of six depositional facies types (MBSD, DCSD, MBSMD, SSiCL, SMDFM, MBSh) based on cluster distributions. The depositional facies MBSD and DCSD exhibited high similarity and achieved a maximum effective porosity (PHIE) value of ≥ 15%, indicating good reservoir rock typing (RRT) features. The density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN) showed minimum outliers through meta cluster attributes and confirmed the reliability of the generated cluster results. Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) model identified PHIE as the most significant parameter and was beneficial in identifying payable and non-payable clustering zones. Additionally, this strategy highlights the importance of unsupervised AI in managing profitable cluster distribution across various geological formations, going beyond simple reservoir characterization.

Abstract The detection and characterisation of electromagnetic signals within a specific frequency range, known as spectrum sensing, plays a crucial role in Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs). The CRNs aim to adapt their communication parameters to the surrounding radio environment, thereby improving the efficiency and utilisation of the available radio spectrum. Spectrum sensing is particularly important in device‐to‐device (D2D) communication when operating independently of the cellular network infrastructure. The Medium Access Control (MAC) protocol coordinates device communication and ensures interference‐free operation of the CRN coexisting with the primary cellular network. A spectrum sensing strategy at the MAC layer for cognitive D2D communication. The strategy focuses on reducing the overall sensing period allocated at the MAC layer by having each Cognitive D2D User (cD2DU) sense a smaller subset of available channels while maintaining the same sensing time for cellular user detection at the physical layer. To achieve this, the concept of concurrent groups of D2D devices is introduced in proximity, which are formed by using unique IDs of cD2DUs during the device discovery stage. Each concurrent group senses a specific portion of the cellular user band in a shorter time, resulting in a reduced overall sensing period. In addition to mitigating traffic congestion through data diversion from the cellular network, the proposed strategy facilitates the concurrent sensing of multiple channels by cD2DUs within the underutilised cellular user band. This leads to extended data transmission periods, increased network throughput, and effective offloading of the cellular network. The effectiveness of the proposed work is evaluated by considering factors, such as network throughput and transmission time. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the approach in improving spectrum utilisation and communication efficiency in multi‐channel Cognitive D2D Networks (cD2DNs).

On October 7, 2021, a magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck the Harnai (Baluchistan) region of Pakistan, causing several fatalities and injuries within the epicentral area. First-order tectonic deformation in this region is caused by the convergence of the Indian Plate with respect to the Eurasian Plate. The Katwaz Block hinders the motion of the Indian Plate, resulting in the formation of strike-slip faults. In this study, the P-wave first-motion polarity technique was used to determine the mainshock faulting style. Cyclic scanning of the polarity solutions was applied to determine the most suitable focal mechanism solution among the available solutions generated by the FOCMEC (focal mechanism) software. The nodal planes correspond to different faulting styles (i.e., thrust and strike-slip faulting). A nodal plane oriented in the NW-SE direction corresponded to a strike-slip mechanism, which was considered to be the fault plane. Tectonically, this earthquake was associated with the Harnai-Karahi strike-slip fault zone owing to the fault strike and direction of slip. The apparent stress drop, fault length, and moment magnitude of the Harnai earthquake were 35.4 bar, 6.1 km, and 5.9, respectively. A lower b-value for the Gutenberg-Richter law was observed prior to the earthquake. Higher α- than b-values (α > b) indicate that this earthquake was governed by large events as opposed to small-magnitude events. The Harnai sequence had a decay exponent close to unity, lasted for 145 days, and produced few aftershocks. The study will help the future hazard mitigation in the region.

Abstract Background Spontaneous pneumothorax (PTX) is more prevalent among COVID-19 patients than other critically ill patients, but studies on this are limited. This study compared clinical characteristics and in-hospital outcomes among COVID-19 patients with concomitant PTX to provide insight into how PTX affects health care utilization and complications, which informs clinical decisions and healthcare resource allocation. Methods The 2020 Nationwide Inpatient Sample was used analyze patient demographics and outcomes, including age, race, sex, insurance status, median income, length of hospital stay, mortality rate, hospitalization costs, comorbidities, mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor support. Propensity score matching was employed for additional analysis. Results Among 1,572,815 COVID-19 patients, 1.41% had PTX. These patients incurred significantly higher hospitalization costs ($435,508 vs. $96,668, p

Abstract Solar cells are increasingly being utilised for both energy harvesting and reception in free‐space optical (FSO) communication networks. The authors focus on the implementation of a mid‐band p‐In0.01Ga0.99 N/p‐In0.5Ga0.5 N/n‐In0.5Ga0.5 N (PPN) solar cell, boasting an impressive 26.36% conversion efficiency (under 1.5AM conditions) as a receiver within an indoor FSO communication network. Employing a solar cell with dimensions of 1 mm in length and width, the FSO system underwent simulation using Optisystm software, while the solar cell's behaviour was simulated using SCAPS‐1D. The received power from the solar cell was then compared to that of four commercially available avalanche photodiode (APD) receivers. Exploring incident wavelengths spanning 400–700 nm within the visible spectrum, across transmission distances of 5, 10, 15, and 20 m, the study presented current‐voltage (IV) and power‐voltage curves. Notably, the InGaN solar cell exhibited superior electrical power output compared to all commercial APDs. In conclusion, the findings underscore that augmenting received power has the potential to enhance FSO network quality and support extended transmission distances.

Abstract Heterogeneous networks (HetNets) refer to the communication network, consisting of different types of nodes connected through communication networks deploying diverse radio access technologies like LTE, Wi‐Fi, Zigbee, and Z‐wave, and using different communication protocols and operating frequencies. Vertical handover, is the process of switching a mobile device from one network type to another, such as from a cellular network to a Wi‐Fi network, and is critical for ensuring a seamless user experience and optimal network performance, within the handover process handover triggering estimation is one of the crucial step affecting the overall performance. A mathematical analysis is presented for the handover triggering estimation. The performance evaluation shows significant improvement in the probability of successful handover using the proposed handover triggering condition based on speed, distance, and different mobility models. The handover triggering condition is optimised based on the speed of the mobile node, handover completion time, and the coverage range of the current and the target networks of the HetNet node, with due consideration of the mobility model.

Abstract Beyond Bias was an intervention introduced in Burkina Faso, Pakistan and Tanzania, with the aim of reducing health worker bias toward young, unmarried and nulliparous women seeking family planning services. This study used qualitative methods – based on interviews with health workers who participated in the intervention, managers at health facilities that participated in the intervention, and policy and program stakeholders at the national level – to understand implementation experiences with the intervention. The results offer insights for organizations or countries seeking to implement Beyond Bias or similar programs, and point to some other key implementation challenges for multi-component interventions in lower-resource settings. The intervention, developed using a human-centered design approach, was seen as key for successful implementation but there were logistical challenges. The digital intervention was disruptive and distracting to many. In addition, the non-financial rewards intervention was perceived as complex, and some participants expressed feeling discouraged when they did not receive a reward. Beyond Bias did not sufficiently attend to the “outer setting,” and this was perceived as a major implementation barrier as it limited individuals’ capacity to fully achieve the desired behavior change; for example, space constraints meant that some health facilities could not ensure private services for all clients. There were scalability concerns related to cost, and there is uncertainty whether diversity of contexts (within and across countries) might constrain implementation of Beyond Bias at scale.

Nickel-Titanium alloys or Nitinol shape memory alloys have applications in various fields like biomedical, agriculture, pharmaceutical, civil, and mechanical engineering. Ferrous-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMAs) do not possess excellent properties like that of Nitinol. In recent times, Fe-SMAs have been under consideration in the research field to enhance their shape memory properties because of their cost-effectiveness, corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and high mechanical strength. Fe-SMAs are limited in their applications in the human body due to high austenite start temperature () even though they are biocompatible and being considered for temporary biodegradable implant applications. Several factors affect the phase transformation temperature of Fe-SMA, like alloy composition and heat treatment conditions. Some of the techniques that are useful to reduce the are quenching, solid solution treatment, ternary element addition, alloying, and thermal-mechanical treatment. In this study, the quenching with brine solution is used to reduce of Fe-15Mn-10 Cr-8Ni-4Si (wt. %). The phase transformation is observed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The best result from experimentation of all the samples collected as reduced from 93oC to 39.02oC which is very close to the temperature of the human body. The results of this study exhibit significant potential for advancement in the application of Fe-SMAs in the biomedical field for permanent implants in cardiovascular and orthopaedic applications.

Abstract Localizing sources in the near-field is one of the emerging challenges for array signal processing, which has received a great deal of attention in recent years. The development of accurate localization algorithms requires the definition of a reliable model of the received signal that takes into account all wavefront characteristics, such as angle, range, and polarization, as well as electromagnetic effects, such as mutual coupling between antennas and the amplitude and phase behaviour of electromagnetic wavefronts. A system model that considers the electromagnetic-informed wave behaviour effects, independent of the type of receiver antennas, array structure, degree of correlation of sources signals and other electromagnetic effects, is considered an “ exact model ” in the literature. However, due to the mathematical complexity of this modeling approach, simplifications using several approximations are conventionally used. For instance, the phase of the exact model is approximated using the Fresnel approximation, while the magnitude of the exact model is simplified by assuming equal distances between the source and all elements in the array. In this work, we evaluate the accuracy of a localization algorithm, the multiple signal classification (MUSIC), using the exact and approximated models in the near-field region. Through a series of simulations, we demonstrate that the localization algorithm designed based on the electromagnetic-informed exact model outperforms the one designed using the approximated model. We also show that considering electromagnetic factors in the system model through the exact model results in a 13% improvement in the direction of arrival (DOA) root mean square error (RMSE) and a 57.7% improvement in range RMSE at signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 15 dB.

Soil erodibility is challenging for agricultural soils, sustainable farming systems and water-food security in developing countries. Regional scale precise estimation of soil erosion is vital to save fertile soils. For this purpose, geospatial technology is the researchers’ top choice. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) has the potential plausible estimates of soil erosion in the region. The study area comprises parts from two basins (Peshawar and Nizampur) having distinct land surface characteristics. This difference made the applicability of RUSLE model challenging. The influencing factors were combined using weighted sum in GIS. The study area was categorized into five soil erosion zones: very low (0–0.1 t ha−1 year−1), low (0.1–0.50 t ha−1 year−1), moderate (0.50–0.7 t ha−1 year−1) high (0.7–1 t ha−1 year−1), and very high (>1 t ha−1 year−1). The 1,748 km2 (174800 hectares) study region has an annual soil loss of 0.1 to > 1.0 t ha−1 year−1. The overall accuracy of the estimated soil erosion was found to be 90% with Kappa coefficient of 87.25% and receiver operating characteristics area under the curve (ROC-AUC) score of 0.819. This study’s will help to address the climate change-induced challenges of soil erosion in agricultural lands.

Hypopharyngeal cancer is a disease that is associated with EGFR‐mutated lung adenocarcinoma. Here we utilized a bioinformatics approach to identify genetic commonalities between these two diseases. To this end, we examined microarray datasets from GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) to identify differentially expressed genes, common genes, and hub genes between the selected two diseases. Our analyses identified potential therapeutic molecules for the selected diseases based on 10 hub genes with the highest interactions according to the degree topology method and the maximum clique centrality (MCC). These therapeutic molecules may have the potential for simultaneous treatment of these diseases.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of oil and gas exports and non-oil and gas exports on the position of foreign exchange reserves in Indonesia for the period 2005–2022. The discussion of this research relates to oil and gas exports, non-oil and gas exports, and the position of foreign exchange reserves. In this regard, the approach taken is theories related to the field. This research was conducted in Indonesia. This type of research is quantitative research. The data used in this study are secondary data of the time series type in the form of publications on oil and gas exports, non-oil and gas exports, and the position of foreign exchange reserves from 2005 to 2022 obtained from the Central Bureau of Statistics. The research method used in this study is the explanatory method. The data analysis technique in this study is descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. The results of this study partially show that there is no effect of oil and gas exports on the position of foreign exchange reserves, while non-oil and gas exports have an effect on the position of foreign exchange reserves. Simultaneously, it shows that there is an influence of oil and gas exports and non-oil and gas exports on the position of foreign exchange reserves.

Electromigration is a critical issue in materials science and electrical engineering, significantly impacting the reliability and efficiency of electrical systems. This study investigates the electromigration behavior of PVC-insulated copper wires under various overcurrent conditions, focusing on material degradation and electrical performance. Copper cables, identified as 046620.3 Eterna CU/PVC 1.5 mm2, were subjected to currents ranging from 0 to 110 A. The mean time to failure (MTTF) was calculated using Black’s equation, revealing a sharp decline in MTTF with increasing current density. Surface morphology analysis using SEM showed the formation of voids and hillocks at higher currents, indicating severe electromigration damage. XRF analysis demonstrated significant changes in the elemental composition, particularly a reduction in copper content and an increase in chlorine and other elements, suggesting degradation of the PVC insulation. FTIR spectroscopy revealed substantial chemical changes in the PVC material, especially under extreme overcurrent conditions, highlighting dehydrochlorination and carbonyl group formation. There is a clear relationship between overcurrent conditions and electromigration phenomena, as evidenced by the observed damage to surface morphology, changes in elemental composition, and alterations in the chemical structure of PVC. The mechanisms and causes of electromigration are explained comprehensively in this work, illustrating how increased overcurrent accelerates the electromigration process, leading to the formation of voids and hillocks in the copper conductor. This damage is accompanied by a significant reduction in copper content and an increase in chlorine levels, indicating the degradation of PVC insulation. FTIR spectra further confirmed these findings by showing chemical changes such as dehydrochlorination and carbonyl group formation under high current stress. The MTTF values reflect the severity of these impacts, with samples exposed to higher currents showing drastically reduced lifespans. For instance, samples subjected to 100 A and 110 A currents exhibited MTTF values of 0.2 minutes and 0.004 minutes, respectively.

Wheat is one of the most important crops all over the world in terms of yield, production, consumption, cultivation, and adoptability. Wheat genotypes exhibiting different yield associated traits which influence each other in many ways. Therefor genotypic and phenotypic correlations are the breeder’s utmost priority to know about the inter-relationship between two or more traits which may be either directly influencing each other in a positive direction or indirectly swaying each other in a negative direction in breeding programs. To find out phenotypic and genotypic correlations among different productive traits, this study was designed at the research area of The Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, during 2022-23. The experiment was carried out by using 27 wheat genotypes comprising of nine parents and 18 F3 populations evaluated in RCB design with three replications. Overall the study exhibited that kernel yield plant-1, which is one of the most yield contributing trait, was significantly correlated with thousand-kernel weights, tillers plant-1and biomass yield, along some other yield contributing traits. The parental genotype, Janbaz, and cross combinations Watan × AUP-5008, Pirsabak-2005 × AUP-5008, Saleem-2000 × Janbaz and Watan × Tatara were the most promising genotypes for most of quantitative traits and; hence are recommended to be evaluated in further breeding schemes. Both phenotypic and genotypic correlation study exhibited that kernel yield spike-1 was significant and positively associated with plant height, tillers plant-1, thousand-kernel weight and biomass yield. Based on correlations, yield, and production the parental genotype, Janbaz, and F3 combinations Watan × AUP-5008, Pirsabak-2005 × AUP-5008, Saleem-2000 × Janbaz and Watan × Tatara were the most promising genotypes for most of the quantitative traits, which can be incorporated in further breeding program.

Abstract Sugarcane smut is the most damaging disease that is present almost across the globe, causing mild to severe yield losses depending upon the cultivar types, pathogen races and climatic conditions. Cultivation of smut-resistant cultivars is the most feasible and economical option to mitigate its damages. Previous investigations revealed that there is a scarcity of information on early detection and effective strategies to suppress etiological agents of smut disease due to the characteristics overlapping within species complexes. In this study, 104 sugarcane cultivars were screened by artificial inoculation with homogenate of all possible pathogen races of Sporisorium scitamineum during two consecutive growing seasons. The logistic smut growth pattern and the disease intrinsic rate were recorded by disease growth curve. Variable levels of disease incidence i.e., ranging from 0 to 54.10% were observed among these sugarcane cultivars. Besides, pathogen DNA in plant shoots of all the cultivars was successfully amplified by PCR method using smut-specific primers except 26 cultivars which showed an immune reaction in the field trial. Furthermore, the plant germination and tillering of susceptible sugarcane cultivars were greatly influenced by pathogen inoculation. In susceptible cultivars, S. scitamineum caused a significant reduction in setts germination, coupled with profuse tillering, resulting in fewer millable canes. Correlation analysis demonstrated that there was a positive relationship between reduction in setts germination and increase in the number of tillers. The present study would be helpful for the evaluation of smut resistance in a wide range of sugarcane germplasm, especially from the aspects of setts germination and tillers formation, and it also screened out several excellent germplasm for potential application in sugarcane breeding.

Globally, the petroleum industry plays a very significant role in producing oil to fill full the demand of the overgrowing population. The improper management of abandoned quantity of petroleum sludge that is one of the byproducts of petroleum industry has posed many environmental as well as socio-economic issues in most of the developing countries. The petroleum sludge contains various toxic substances like minerals, oil, and other chemicals which are very harmful for biotic as well as abiotic environment. Meanwhile, a huge quantity of livestock manure, especially buffalo dung, is produced in villages and burned as fuel after drying in open atmosphere for domestic application without any treatment which generates indoor air pollution. This study was formulated to analysis the biochemical methane potential of buffalo dung with petroleum sludge at different mixing ratios (i.e., 1:1, 1.5:0.5 and 0.5:1.5) through batch digestion system. The substrates were prepared and characterized before and after batch digestion by using standard methodology. The maximum methane was obtained as 268Nml/gVS, followed by 326Nml/gVS and 191Nml/gVS at mixing ratio of 1:1, 1.5:0.5 and 0.5:1.5 respectively. The results and finding of study lead to recommend that the codigestion of buffalo dung with petroleum sludge at mixing ratio of 1.5:0.5 through continuous batch digestion would be best option to enhance methane production.

Permanent magnets are essential components of electromechanical devices. Majority of magnets are used in permanent magnet motors that have extensive application in relation to energy efficiency and sustainability like electric vehicles. This research is aimed for efficient manufacturing of FeCrCo permanent magnets. Electromagnets could be utilized for the generation of continuous magnetic field to use in number of manufacturing processes. A two-pole electromagnet, comprising of two solenoids each having 2200 turns of copper wire, was developed. The system was designed to produce magnetic field up to 10 kilo Gauss for spinodal decomposition of FeCrCo alloy samples under thermomagnetic treatment process. Being rare earth free alloys, FeCrCo magnet is gaining research focus as an alternative magnetic alloy for advanced applications. The electromagnetic system design was refined and confirmed by using the Finite Element Method. The experimental values, of magnetic field generated by the two-pole electromagnet setup, were well close to the simulation results. The magnetizing setup was utilized to treat the FeCrCo magnetic alloy samples simultaneously at high temperature (700 °C) and magnetic field (7 kilo Gauss). This thermo-magnetic setup helped to improve the metallurgical structures of FeCrCo to grow and develop more efficiently. Treated samples of FeCrCo alloy demonstrated enhanced magnetic properties due to effective spinodal decomposition. The improvement in magnetic properties was attributed to the elimination of retained alpha phase and formation of more alpha-1 phase.

Quality of finished miniature products is characterized by surface roughness as well as burr formation after manufacturing processes. It gains more significance when it is gauged in terms of high precision and dimensional accuracy of final micro parts. The requirement of complex fea-tures in 3D micro parts also figures out its significance. Similarly, tool wear is an important indicator of production efficiency and quality related to finished parts. In the current research, the impact of key input parameters like depth of cut, feed rate, cutting speed and various tool coatings (TiAlN, TiSiN, nACo, including an uncoated tool) were statistically analyzed while carrying out micro-milling of Monel 400 super alloy. Sur-face roughness along with burr formation and tool wear were considered as response parameters due to their significant nature. Machining ex-periments were performed up to 80,000 rpm (high-speed range). Feed rate values were selected in comparison with cutting tool edge radius. The selected values of feed rate were taken into consideration at moderate and high-speed ranges while selecting the values equal to below and above the values of cutting-edge radius. Digital microscopy and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were utilized for analysis in addition to statistical techniques for response parameters. Methodology utilizes Taguchi's Experimental design. L16 orthogonal array was formulated to carry out mi-cro milling experiments on Monel 400 specimen, having dimensions 20mm x 30mm x 40mm. Contribution ratio (CR) of individual input pa-rameter was calculated through Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The outcome of experimental work indicated that feed rate was the most sig-nificant factor for surface roughness with CR 27.86%. It also became most significant factor for top burr width in both categories (Up-milling & down-milling) with CR 56.56% and 56.60% respectively. Moreover, it was also most significant factor for top burr height in both categories (Up-milling & down-milling) with CR 23.84% and CR 28.47% respectively. Whereas in case of tool wear, the depth of cut and tool coatings were significant factors with CR 19.46% and 28.47% respectively.

The use of herbal bio-actives and phyto-contents to increase livestock productivity is a revived interest in veterinary research. The effect of wild strawberry {Fragaria vesca (FV)} pulp extract (PE) as antioxidant supplement in bovine semen cryopreservation diluent was explored. The experiment involved three fertile bulls. Three semen ejaculates per animal were collected. Each sample was diluted with Semen Transportation Diluent (STD) in 1:2 ratio. The (semen + STD) sample was vortexed and centrifuged (at 32g for 15 min) to remove 50 % supernatant. The remaining sample was re-diluted with semen cryopreservation diluent (SCD) in the ratio 1:4. Three aliquots of 0.3 ml were set aside from each (semen + STD + SCD) sample and were further treated with; 1: 0.7 mL of SCD (SCD group); 2: 0.7 mL SCD and 0.8 % FV-PE (FV-PE 0.8) and; 3: 0.7 mL SCD and 1.6 % FV-PE (FV-PE 1.6). Sperm quality parameters were evaluated before and after 48 h of cryopreservation. Results showed significantly enhanced mean percentage of sperm viability, progressive motility, velocity and fertilizability in FV-PE 0.8 and FV-PE 1.6 groups as compared with SCD group. The findings propose the protective and ameliorative potential of FV-PE for cryopreserved bovine sperms.

The development of the business world in the era of advanced globalization has led to higher business competition. The company conducts human resource empowerment to improve the performance of each employee and the company as a whole. PT Mycotech Agro Asia Ponorogo realizes that to improve the performance of its employees, the company must implement applicable rewards and punishments. The purpose of this study is to explain reward, punishment, and performance at PT Mycotech Agro Asia, analyze the effect of reward and punishment on PT Mycotech Agro Asia, and find the most important variables. This study involved 50 production employees, so all samples were taken from the overall population through the total sampling method. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the data. The results showed that reward and punishmet had a positive effect on performance at PT Mycotech Agro Asia Ponorogo partially and simultaneously. The coefficient of determination shows that PT Mycotech Agro Asia company benefits from the compensation and punishment variables with 88.8% of the acquisition value. Other variables that affect employee performance other than the variables in the study obtained 22.2% of the remaining value.

This study explores the potential of LDH flakes decorated with metallic oxide nanoparticles to function as both anti-corrosion barriers against chloride anions and heterogeneous photocatalysts for tetracycline degradation under visible light. The process involves modifying the primarily MgO-based inorganic porous film by growing a MgFe LDH film, followed by the individual and dual incorporation of SnO2 and WO3 nanoparticles. The dual incorporation of these nanoparticles into the LDH matrix leads to synergistic interactions, effectively sealing pre-existing defects within LDH flakes and facilitating the in-situ formation of catalytic sites through oxidation and the induction of surface oxygen vacancy defects, which synergistically contribute to the enhancement of both electrochemical and photocatalytic activities. The enhanced electrochemical stability is reflected in a significant reduction in corrosion current density by 4 orders of magnitude compared to unmodified porous film. Additionally, the decorated film demonstrates sustained photocatalytic functionality, achieving significant degradation (95.5%) of tetracycline within two hours. This study presents a novel approach, highlighting the dual effectiveness of LDHs decorated by dual metal oxides as an anti-corrosive agent and photocatalyst, with promising implications for environmental remediation and wastewater purification.

Ti–6Al–4V, an alloy of titanium has recently gained focus of research to overcome its machinability challenges. Miniaturization in devices has forced a shift towards micro and meso-scale machining. Sustainability and green manufacturing concepts have shifted focus in machining from cutting fluids towards modern cooling approaches to minimize or eliminate them. In present research, cutting forces & tool wear in Ultrasonic Vibrations Assisted End Milling of Ti–6Al–4V at meso-scale under Dry, Flooded, Minimum Quantity Lubrication & Cryogenic cooling have been analyzed to develop optimum machining parameters. Taguchi L16 orthogonal array was designed to perform experiments keeping Cutting Speed, Feed per tooth, Depth of cut, Ultrasonic vibrations amplitude & Cooling environment as inputs. ANOVA was used to analyze contribution ratios by these parameters towards cutting forces & tool wear. Results indicated that machining conditions, cooling environment and Ultrasonic Vibrations influence cutting forces & tool wear. Depth of cut had the highest influence with 63.41% contribution towards cutting forces while cutting speed remained the highest influencing factor with 39.86% contribution towards tool wear. Cutting forces were reduced by 33.49%, 16.93% and 4.91% while tool wear was reduced by 26.43%, 9.48% and 5.17% under Minimum Quantity Lubrication environment compared to dry, flooded and cryogenic cooling respectively. Cutting forces and tool wear under ultrasonic vibrations were reduced by 24.52% and 13.16% respectively as compared to Conventional Machining (CM). For optimum results, Minimum Quantity Lubrication with low Cutting Speed, Depth of cut, Feed per tooth and high amplitude of ultrasonic vibrations is recommended to machine Ti–6Al–4V.

Abstract Carotenoid cleavage oxygenases (CCOs) enzymes play a vital role in plant growth and development through the synthesis of apocarotenoids and their derivative. These chemicals are necessary for flower and fruit coloration, as well as the manufacture of plant hormones such as abscisic acid (ABA) and strigolactones, which control a variety of physiological processes. The CCOs gene family has not been characterized in Arachis hypogaea. Genome mining of A. hypogaea identifies 24 AhCCO gene members. The AhCCO gene family was divided into two subgroups based on the recent study of the Arabidopsis thaliana CCO gene family classification system. Twenty-three AhCCO genes, constituting 95.8% of the total, were regulated by 29 miRNAs, underscoring the significance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in governing gene expression in peanuts. AhCCD19 is the only gene that lacks a miRNA target site. The physicochemical characteristics of CCO genes and their molecular weights and isoelectric points were studied further. The genes were then characterized regarding chromosomal distribution, structure, and promoter cis-elements. Light, stress development, drought stress, and hormone responsiveness were discovered to be associated with AhCCO genes, which can be utilized in developing more resilient crops. The investigation also showed the cellular location of the encoded proteins and discovered that the peanut carotenoid oxygenase gene family’s expansion was most likely the result of tandem, segmental, and whole-genome duplication events. The localization expresses the abundance of genes mostly in the cytoplasm and chloroplast. Expression analysis shows that AhCCD7 and AhCCD14 genes show the maximum expression in the apical meristem, lateral leaf, and pentafoliate leaf development, while AhNCED9 and AhNCED13 express in response to Aspergillus flavus resistance. This knowledge throws light on the evolutionary history of the AhCCO gene family and may help researchers better understand the molecular processes behind gene duplication occurrences in plants. An integrated synteny study was used to find orthologous carotenoid oxygenase genes in A. hypogaea, whereas Arabidopsis thaliana and Beta vulgaris were used as references for the functional characterization of peanut CCO genes. These studies provide a foundation for future research on the regulation and functions of this gene family. This information provides valuable insights into the genetic regulation of AhCCO genes. This technology could create molecular markers for breeding programs to develop new peanut lines.

Abstract Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces have recently emerged as a revolutionary next-generation wireless networks paradigm that harnesses engineered electromagnetic environments to reshape radio wave propagation. Pioneering research presented in this article establishes the viability of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces-enhanced indoor localisation and charts a roadmap for its integration into next-generation wireless network architectures. Here, we present a comprehensive experimental analysis of a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces-enabled indoor localisation scheme that evaluates the localisation accuracy of different machine learning algorithms under varying Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces states, antenna types, and communication setups. The results indicate that incorporating Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces can significantly enhance indoor localisation accuracy, achieving an impressive 82.4% success rate. Moreover, this study delves into system performance across varied communication modes and subcarrier configurations. This research is poised to lay the groundwork for implementing Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces-empowered joint sensing and communications in future next-generation wireless networks.

Abstract Coding transcript-derived siRNAs (ct-siRNAs) produced from specific endogenous loci can suppress the translation of their source genes to balance plant growth and stress response. In this study, we generated Arabidopsis mutants with deficiencies in RNA decay and/or post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) pathways and performed comparative sRNA-seq analysis, revealing that multiple RNA decay and PTGS factors impede the ct-siRNA selective production. Genes that produce ct-siRNAs often show increased or unchanged expression and typically have higher GC content in sequence composition. The growth and development of plants can perturb the dynamic accumulation of ct-siRNAs from different gene loci. Two nitrate reductase genes, NIA1 and NIA2, produce massive amounts of 22-nt ct-siRNAs and are highly expressed in a subtype of mesophyll cells where DCL2 exhibits higher expression relative to DCL4, suggesting a potential role of cell-specific expression of ct-siRNAs. Overall, our findings unveil the multifaceted factors and features involved in the selective production and regulation of ct-siRNAs and enrich our understanding of gene silencing process in plants.

The performance of a pavement mainly depends on the quality of the subgrade layer. Expansive soils (ES) are extensively found worldwide including Pakistan. The inadequate strength and swelling behaviour of these soils are the main problems in any road construction project. Several researchers in the last decades have attempted to improve expansive soil utilizing various materials such as lime, brick kiln dust and fly ash. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect of lime on the engineering properties of the ES of a highway subgrade in the Sialkot region of Pakistan. The influence of different lime dosages (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%) at curing ages (1, 7, 14 and 28 days) has been examined by pH tests, plasticity tests, compaction tests, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), free swell index, and California Bearing Ratios (CBR). A field CBR and plate load test (PLT) on the natural soil and optimum lime-treated soil with various curing periods have been carried out for applicability as subgrade material. The test findings demonstrated that higher lime dosages increased the strength and ultimate bearing capacity (𝑞𝑢𝑙𝑡) of improved ES and at the same time decreased the free swelling index (FSI), optimum moisture content (OMC), maximum dry density (MDD) and permanent deformation of the subgrade soil. The UCS values of soil treated with 2%, 4% and 6% lime increased almost by 324%, 523%, and 249% for unsoaked samples and 285%, 351% and 231% for soaked samples respectively as compared to the plain soil at 28 days curing period. The laboratory CBR values significantly increased 2.35-8.50 times and field CBR improved 5.6 times as compared to the plain soil. The 𝑞𝑢𝑙𝑡 of lime-treated soil increased by 162% as compared to the plain soil and permanent deformation reduced from 33 mm to 2 mm after 28 days. Furthermore, equations were developed to estimate the best fit for the prediction of various geotechnical parameters and coefficient of determination (R2 ) values for all equations were found higher than 0.90. From the results, it has been concluded that adding the optimum lime content of 4% by weight satisfies the requirement for the subgrade construction of highways and the developed expressions can provide a scientific basis for estimating the geotechnical parameters.

Abstract Lithofacies identification plays a pivotal role in understanding reservoir heterogeneity and optimizing production in tight sandstone reservoirs. In this study, we propose a novel supervised workflow aimed at accurately predicting lithofacies in complex and heterogeneous reservoirs with intercalated facies. The objectives of this study are to utilize advanced clustering techniques for facies identification and to evaluate the performance of various classification models for lithofacies prediction. Our methodology involves a two-information criteria clustering approach, revealing six distinct lithofacies and offering an unbiased alternative to conventional manual methods. Subsequently, Gaussian Process Classification (GPC), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and Random Forest (RF) models are employed for lithofacies prediction. Results indicate that GPC outperforms other models in lithofacies identification, with SVM and ANN following suit, while RF exhibits comparatively lower performance. Validated against a testing dataset, the GPC model demonstrates accurate lithofacies prediction, supported by synchronization measures for synthetic log prediction. Furthermore, the integration of predicted lithofacies into acoustic impedance versus velocity ratio cross-plots enables the generation of 2D probability density functions. These functions, in conjunction with depth data, are then utilized to predict synthetic gamma-ray log responses using a neural network approach. The predicted gamma-ray logs exhibit strong agreement with measured data (R2 = 0.978) and closely match average log trends. Additionally, inverted impedance and velocity ratio volumes are employed for lithofacies classification, resulting in a facies prediction volume that correlates well with lithofacies classification at well sites, even in the absence of core data. This study provides a novel methodological framework for reservoir characterization in the petroleum industry.

Abstract Research has indicated a negative impact of physical activity on academic burnout among students, however, there is a paucity of evidence about the underlying mechanism of this association in Pakistani students. The present research seeks to investigate the relationship between physical activity and academic burnout by investigating the potential mediating effects of adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and body mass index (BMI). A sample of 596 students using a cross-sectional survey design was gathered from two public universities (Riphah International University and Mohammed Ali Jinnah University) in Rawalpindi, Pakistan from June to July 2022. The study participants were asked to fill out the Physical Activity Rating Scale-3, the Learning Burnout Scale, and the Test of Adherence to MD questionnaires. The study employed descriptive, bivariate, and path analysis through regression utilizing the SPSS software version 27. The findings demonstrated a negative correlation between academic burnout and BMI, physical activity, and adherence to the MD. The relationship between physical activity and academic burnout was mediated by BMI. Physical activity and academic burnout were inversely correlated, with adherence to the MD and BMI interacting as sequential mediators. The outcomes of this research have expanded our knowledge of the association between physical activity and academic burnout and have suggested crucial and appropriate strategies for addressing student academic burnout.

During the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, anticoagulant drugs have emerged as a crucial component of treatment alongside antivirus medications. Patients with severe COVID-19 frequently have critical conditions marked by blood clot development, necessitating the administration of anticoagulants. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various anticoagulant drugs, their synthesis methods, and assays employed to predict their anticoagulant activity. Notable anticoagulant categories frequently utilized include oral anticoagulants heparin, non-vitamin K antagonists, and vitamin K antagonists. In recent years, the development of new anticoagulants has seen a shift towards a multifaceted approach that combines in silico prediction with in vitro and in vivo assays. In silico prediction techniques play a pivotal role in the initial screening process. This integrated approach has yielded promising results, paving the way for the synthesis of novel anticoagulant candidates, as substantiated by a battery of in vitro, in vivo, and ex-vivo tests.

Meeting the demands of complex and advanced applications requires the development of high-performance hybrid materials with unique properties. However, the integration of polymeric frameworks with MgO/WO3 composite layers faces challenges due to the lack of understanding of the formation mechanism and the challenge of determining the impact of self-assembled architecture on anticorrosive properties. In this study, we aimed to enhance the corrosion resistance of the MgO layer produced by plasma electrolysis (PE) of AZ31 Mg alloy by incorporating WO3 with partially phosphorated poly(vinyl alcohol) (PPVA). Two types of porous MgO layers were produced using the PE process with an alkaline-phosphate electrolyte, one with and one without WO3 nanoparticles, which were subsequently immersed in an aqueous solution of PPVA. Incorporating PPVA into the WO3-MgO layer resulted in hybrids being deposited in a fragmented manner, creating a ``laminar reef-like structure'' that sealed most of the structural defects in the layer. The PPVA-sealed WO3-based coating exhibited superior corrosion resistance compared to the other samples. Computational analyses were employed to explore the mechanism underlying the formation of PPVA/WO3 hybrids on the MgO layer. These findings suggest that PPVA-WO3-MgO hybrid coatings can potentially improve corrosion resistance in various fields.

Background: Teenage is an important stage for brain development, with significant impacts on education and health. Exploring how high-intensity interval training (HIIT) affects cognitive function in this population is crucial to comprehending how HIIT can improve general well-being and academic performance. Objective: To determine the effects of high-intensity interval training on cognitive flexibility among female teenagers. Methodology: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on n=40 female participants between 13-19 years without any serious medical, physical, or psychological illness for 6 months. All participants (n=40) were randomly divided into experimental (HIIT) and control groups equally. The protocols were performed in 4 mins in the first three weeks, 8 mins in the 4th to 6th week, and 12 mins in the 7th and 8th week, with sessions thrice a week. Data on cognitive flexibility was collected at baseline, after 4th week and 8th week from both groups through Digit Span (DST). Results: With-in-group analysis the experimental group showed significant improvement (p

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a disease caused by dengue virus with mosquito vectors. Supporting examinations to determine the course of DHF include platelet counts, hematocrit values, and leukocyte counts. Length of hospitalization is the number of days when the patient receives treatment in the hospital, calculated when recorded as an inpatient until discharge from the hospital. This type of research is an analytic observational study with a cross sectional research design. Cases of pediatric DHF at Bina Sehat Hospital Jember for the period 2020-2022 totaled 296 patients. Data were obtained using medical records. Of the 296 cases of pediatric DHF, samples were then taken by purposive sampling according to the researcher's criteria until 44 samples were obtained. The data were then analyzed using Rank Spearman. The results of the data analysis showed that there was a strong opposite relationship (p = 0.000; r = -0.562) between platelet count and length of hospitalization, a strong unidirectional relationship (p = 0.001; r = 0.495) between hematocrit value and length of hospitalization, and a strong opposite relationship (p = 0.005; r = -0.415) between leukocyte count and length of hospitalization. Suggestions for future research are to use other variables such as nutritional status, medical history, and other laboratory examinations. Keywords: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever; Length of Hospitalization; Thrombocyte; Hematocrit; Leukocyte

Abstract Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a highly heterogeneous disorder influenced by several environmental and genetic factors. Effective disease-modifying therapies and robust early-stage biomarkers are still lacking, and an improved understanding of the molecular changes in PD could help to reveal new diagnostic markers and pharmaceutical targets. Here, we report results from a cohort-wide blood plasma metabolic profiling of PD patients and controls in the Luxembourg Parkinson’s Study to detect disease-associated alterations at the level of systemic cellular process and network alterations. We identified statistically significant changes in both individual metabolite levels and global pathway activities in PD vs. controls and significant correlations with motor impairment scores. As a primary observation when investigating shared molecular sub-network alterations, we detect pronounced and coordinated increased metabolite abundances in xanthine metabolism in de novo patients, which are consistent with previous PD case/control transcriptomics data from an independent cohort in terms of known enzyme-metabolite network relationships. From the integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics network analysis, the enzyme hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase 1 (HPRT1) is determined as a potential key regulator controlling the shared changes in xanthine metabolism and linking them to a mechanism that may contribute to pathological loss of cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in PD. Overall, the investigations revealed significant PD-associated metabolome alterations, including pronounced changes in xanthine metabolism that are mechanistically congruent with alterations observed in independent transcriptomics data. The enzyme HPRT1 may merit further investigation as a main regulator of these network alterations and as a potential therapeutic target to address downstream molecular pathology in PD.

Abstract This research designed a distribution-free mixed exponentially weighted moving average-moving average (EWMA-MA) control chart based on signed-rank statistic to effectively identify changes in the process location. The EWMA-MA charting statistic assigns more weight to information obtained from the recent $$w$$ w samples and exponentially decreasing weights to information accumulated from all other past samples. The run-length profile of the proposed chart is obtained by employing Monte Carlo simulation techniques. The effectiveness of the proposed chart is evaluated under symmetrical distributions using a variety of individual and overall performance measures. The analysis of the run-length profile indicates that the proposed chart performs better than the existing control charts discussed in the literature. Additionally, an application from a gas turbine is provided to demonstrate how the proposed chart can be used in practice.

Abstract The present study was designed to evaluate the antiemetic activity of abietic acid (AA) using in vivo and in silico studies. To assess the effect, doses of 50 mg/kg b.w. copper sulfate (CuSO4⋅5H2O) were given orally to 2-day-old chicks. The test compound (AA) was given orally at two doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg b.w. On the other hand, aprepitant (16 mg/kg), domperidone (6 mg/kg), diphenhydramine (10 mg/kg), hyoscine (21 mg/kg), and ondansetron (5 mg/kg) were administered orally as positive controls (PCs). The vehicle was used as a control group. Combination therapies with the referral drugs were also given to three separate groups of animals to see the synergistic and antagonizing activity of the test compound. Molecular docking and visualization of ligand-receptor interaction were performed using different computational tools against various emesis-inducing receptors (D2, D3, 5HT3, H1, and M1–M5). Furthermore, the pharmacokinetics and toxicity properties of the selected ligands were predicted by using the SwissADME and Protox-II online servers. Findings indicated that AA dose-dependently enhances the latency of emetic retching and reduces the number of retching compared to the vehicle group. Among the different treatments, animals treated with AA (40 mg/kg) exhibited the highest latency (98 ± 2.44 s) and reduced the number of retching (11.66 ± 2.52 times) compared to the control groups. Additionally, the molecular docking study indicated that AA exhibits the highest binding affinity (− 10.2 kcal/mol) toward the M4 receptors and an elevated binding affinity toward the receptors 5HT3 (− 8.1 kcal/mol), M1 (− 7.7 kcal/mol), M2 (− 8.7 kcal/mol), and H1 (− 8.5 kcal/mol) than the referral ligands. Taken together, our study suggests that AA has potent antiemetic effects by interacting with the 5TH3 and muscarinic receptor interaction pathways. However, additional extensive pre-clinical and clinical studies are required to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of AA.

Abstract Background Contemporary undergraduate dental education aims to equip the dental students with clinical competence, empathy, and professionalism to enable them to deliver safe and effective dental care to the communities. The purpose of this study was to assess the self-reported preparedness of final year dental students and interns at three Saudi dental institutions, using the pre-validated Dental Undergraduates Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS). Methods A cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the self-reported preparedness of the participants using the DU-PAS. Following ethics approval, a probability sampling technique was used to recruit undergraduate dental students and interns from three dental institutions in Saudi Arabia. The data was collected online on Google Forms and all participants provided their consent to participate in the study prior to providing their responses to DU-PAS. Results Responses were received from 397 participants including 171 males and 226 females yielding a response rate of 60.3%. The total mean score of the participants was 81.85 ± 13.11. Although higher scores were reported in males, the interaction between gender and DU-PAS scores were not significant. Interaction between DU-PAS scores and stage of education showed significant effect of the stage of education with interns reporting higher overall scores. The participants reported that they were able to perform most clinical procedures independently. However, low confidence was reported in performing multi-rooted endodontics, fabrication of removable dentures and orthodontic assessment. The participants also expressed their confidence in a wide range of behavioural attributes related to communication, teamworking and professionalism. However, lack of experience was noted in referral for oral cancer, interpreting research, and evaluation of new dental products using an evidence-based approach. Conclusion The study provides useful insights into the self-reported preparedness of undergraduate dental students and interns in three dental institutions. While the overall preparedness of the participants was comparable to their international peers, the findings underscore the need for further enhancements to the teaching and training of undergraduate students particularly in multirooted endodontics, removable prosthodontics and orthodontics.

Abstract Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression and pathology show pronounced sex differences, but the factors driving these remain poorly understood. To gain insights into early AD-associated molecular changes and their sex dependency for tau pathology in the cortex, we performed single-cell RNA-seq in the THY-Tau22 AD mouse model. By examining cell type-specific and cell type-agnostic AD-related gene activity changes and their sex-dimorphism for individual genes, pathways and cellular sub-networks, we identified both statistically significant alterations and interpreted the upstream mechanisms controlling them. Our results confirm several significant sex-dependent alterations in gene activity in the THY-Tau22 model mice compared to controls, with more pronounced alterations in females. Both changes shared across multiple cell types and cell type-specific changes were observed. The differential genes showed significant over-representation of known AD-relevant processes, such as pathways associated with neuronal differentiation, programmed cell death and inflammatory responses. Regulatory network analysis of these genes revealed upstream regulators that modulate many of the downstream targets with sex-dependent changes. Most key regulators have been previously implicated in AD, such as Egr1, Klf4, Chchd2, complement system genes, and myelin-associated glycoproteins. Comparing with similar data from the Tg2576 AD mouse model and human AD patients, we identified multiple genes with consistent, cell type-specific and sex-dependent alterations across all three datasets. These shared changes were particularly evident in the expression of myelin-associated genes such as Mbp and Plp1 in oligodendrocytes. In summary, we observed significant cell type-specific transcriptomic changes in the THY-Tau22 mouse model, with a strong over-representation of known AD-associated genes and processes. These include both sex-neutral and sex-specific patterns, characterized by consistent shifts in upstream master regulators and downstream target genes. Collectively, these findings provide insights into mechanisms influencing sex-specific susceptibility to AD and reveal key regulatory proteins that could be targeted for developing treatments addressing sex-dependent AD pathology.

Abstract Geoscientists now identify coal layers using conventional well logs. Coal layer identification is the main technical difficulty in coalbed methane exploration and development. This research uses advanced quantile–quantile plot, self-organizing maps (SOM), k-means clustering, t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) and qualitative log curve assessment through three wells (X4, X5, X6) in complex geological formation to distinguish coal from tight sand and shale. Also, we identify the reservoir rock typing (RRT), gas-bearing and non-gas bearing potential zones. Results showed gamma-ray and resistivity logs are not reliable tools for coal identification. Further, coal layers highlighted high acoustic (AC) and neutron porosity (CNL), low density (DEN), low photoelectric, and low porosity values as compared to tight sand and shale. While, tight sand highlighted 5–10% porosity values. The SOM and clustering assessment provided the evidence of good-quality RRT for tight sand facies, whereas other clusters related to shale and coal showed poor-quality RRT. A t-SNE algorithm accurately distinguished coal and was used to make CNL and DEN plot that showed the presence of low-rank bituminous coal rank in study area. The presented strategy through conventional logs shall provide help to comprehend coal-tight sand lithofacies units for future mining.

This study assessed the influence of exogenous ME in the mitigation of cold damage in pepper seedlings. Melatonin (ME) is a dynamic molecule that helps plants cope with stress in several ways. Cold stress (CS) is one of the most important environmental factors that restrict plant growth and yield. Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a valuable commercial crop, highly sensitive to CS. Thus, identifying an efficient strategy to mitigate cold damage is critical for long-term pepper production. For this purpose, the roots of pepper seedlings were pretreated with ME (5 μmol · L−1) and exposed to CS for 7 d. The results indicated that CS suppressed pepper growth, hampered photosynthetic capacity, and damaged root architecture in pepper plants. In contrast, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), electrolyte leakage (EL), proline, and soluble sugars were enhanced in plants under CS. ME (5 μmol · L−1) pretreatment reduced the negative effects of CS by recovering plant growth, root traits, gas exchange elements, and pigment molecules compared to CS control treatment. Furthermore, ME application efficiently reduced oxidative stress markers [hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide ion (O2·–), EL, and MDA] while increasing proline and soluble sugar content in pepper leaves. ME application combined with CS further increased antioxidant enzymes and related gene expression. Collectively, our results confirmed the mitigating potential of ME supplementation for CS by maintaining pepper seedling growth, improving the photosynthesis apparatus, regulating pigments, and osmolyte content.

Abstract Our research focuses on examining the problem of localizing user equipment (UE) in the uplink scenario using reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) based lens. We carry out a thorough analysis of the Fisher information matrix (FIM) and assess the influence of various RIS-based lens configurations using an actual RIS phase-dependent amplitude variations model. Furthermore, to reduce the complexity of the maximum likelihood (ML) estimator, a simple localization algorithm-based angular expansion is presented. Simulation results show superior localization performance when prior location information is available for directional and positional channel configurations. The position error bound (PEB) and the root mean square error (RMSE) are studied to evaluate the localization accuracy of the user utilizing the realistic RIS phase-dependent amplitude model in the near-field region. Furthermore, the achievable data rate is obtained in the same region using the realistic RIS phase-dependent amplitude model. It is noticed that adopting the actual RIS phase-dependent amplitude model under the near-field channel increases the localization error and degrades the data rate performance for amplitude value less than one so, the unity assumption of the RIS phase shift model used widely in the literature is inaccurate.

Construction monitoring in dynamic construction site environments poses significant challenges for construction management. To overcome these challenges, the implementation of computer vision (CV) technologies for construction project monitoring has gained traction. This study focuses on investigating the factors influence the successful implementation of CV technologies in monitoring construction activities within building projects. A comprehensive methodology was employed, including a systematic review of CV technologies implemented in construction and qualitative surveys conducted with construction experts. Additionally, a quantitative questionnaire was developed, and the collected data was analysed using structural equation modelling. The findings reveal the presence of 10 factors categorized into four constructs. Notably, all 10 factors demonstrate high value factor loadings and statistical significance, and among the four constructs (device, jobsite, environment, human), device (0.82) has the highest impact on the implementation of CV-based technologies on the construction site, followed by jobsite condition (0.62), human (0.61), and environment (0.51) came in the last place. By addressing these influential factors and mitigating their effects, construction stakeholders can enhance the implementation of CV technologies for monitoring construction sites. This study contributes valuable insights that inform the implementation and optimization of CV technologies in construction projects, ultimately advancing the field of construction management.

Objective: Intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) has revolutionised the care of people with diabetes but its uptake and benefits in older adults are not well known. We examined the impact of isCGM (Freestyle Libre, FSL) on glycaemic outcomes in younger (⩽65 years) and older adults (>65 years) with diabetes. Design and methods: In total, 2260 adult patients registered on the Libreview account at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, UK, were included. Inclusion criteria: all patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes aged >18 years, use of isCGM >6 months, scanning at least 6 times/day. Demographics, diabetes history and glycaemic outcomes (time in range (TIR), time above range and time below range (TBR), estimated HbA1c, HbA1c at start and at end of study) were collected by accessing electronic patient records and Libreview. Outcomes were compared between age groups ⩽65 or >65 years old. Results: Most patients were of Caucasian ethnicity (⩽65 years 68%, >65 years 73%) and had type 1 diabetes. Mean duration of diabetes was 19.5 years (range 0–65 years) and 34.5 years (range 0–79 years) for ⩽65 and >65 years, respectively. Only a quarter of those ⩽65 years achieved (219/943; 23.2%) their age specific TIR target compared to 69% (78/113) of those >65 years cohort, while 70.1% (663/946) of ⩽65 years and 40.7% (46/113) of >65 years achieved their age-specific TBR target. When the less strict ⩽65 years TBR target was applied, 75% (85/113) of >65 years cohort achieved this. Conclusion: FSL use was associated with improved glycaemic outcomes across all age groups. Individualised targets may be needed to improve TBR in those aged >65 years.

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified global social inequalities and disrupted socio-economic stability, as recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). This study uses Marxist and critical theoretical frameworks to analyze how the pandemic has exacerbated class struggles and socio-economic disparities, focusing on the working and lower-middle classes in Southeast Asia. Through case studies of Indonesia and Malaysia, the research evaluates national policy responses designed to protect these groups. Employing a descriptive and qualitative methodology, including analysis of official data and media discourse, the study highlights how the pandemic has amplified existing contradictions within capitalist systems, leading to increased job losses and widening labor market inequalities. Despite the introduction of economic stimulus packages, these measures often fail to address the underlying systemic issues of capitalism that perpetuate class exploitation and inequality. The paper critiques the capitalist framework for exacerbating the challenges faced by the working class during the pandemic, arguing that these policies offer only temporary relief without tackling the root causes of socioeconomic disparities. This analysis underscores the need for a more transformative approach to understanding and addressing capitalist dynamics in Southeast Asia.

Technological advances are crucial for the optimization of gastric cancer surgery, and the success of any gastric cancer surgery is based on the correct and precise anatomical determination of the primary tumour and tissue structures. Real-time imaging-guided surgery is showing increasing potential and utility, mainly because it helps to aid intraoperative decision-making. However, intraoperative imaging faces many challenges in the field of gastric cancer. This article summarizes and discusses the following clinical applications of real-time optical imaging and fluorescence-guided surgery for gastric cancer: (1) the potential of quantitative fluorescence imaging in assessing tissue perfusion, (2) vascular navigation and determination of tumour margins, (3) the advantages and limitations of lymph node drainage assessment, and (4) identification of peritoneal metastases. In addition, preclinical study of tumour-targeted fluorescence imaging are discussed.