This study delves into the critical domain of public procurement, specifically focusing on Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations within the context of South Korea. The aim of this research is to empirically scrutinize the factors influencing the impact index of SPP, with a particular emphasis on services related to labor standards. The investigation spans three years, from January 1, 2019, to July 31, 2021, encompassing state agency orders and post-implementation legal changes. Leveraging the comprehensive Korea On-line E-Procurement Sys-tem(KONEPS) platform, we meticulously collected data, ultimately culminating in 21,573 services meeting our criteria, from which 250 cases underwent an in-depth analysis. The study sheds light on the influence of social responsibility evaluation cri-teria on overall procurement scores, while also uncovering the moderating effects of various factors. The outcomes of this study offer valuable insights into the impact index of social responsibility evaluation criteria within South Korea's public procurement landscape. Factors including procurement year, classification, service period, and estimated price were identified as significant influencers. Moreover, the number and location of evalu-ation criteria items, inclusion of sincerity elements, and the evaluating agency were deemed pivotal determinants of the influence index. These findings hold profound implications for policymakers, procurement practitioners, and researchers and provide a roadmap for optimizing the utilization of social responsibility evaluation criteria to advance responsible and sustainable procurement practices. Future research avenues include conducting further study of additional moderat-ing variables, expanding datasets to encompass a broader spectrum of procurement contexts, and evaluating the long-term repercussions of social responsibility evaluation on procurement outcomes. These endeavors promise to further refine and advance public procurement practices in South Korea and beyond.

This paper explores the views of a group of young men aged 16–18, studying towards a Level 1 diploma in music in the North East area of England. It uses the conceptualization of “social haunting” to focus our discussions about how Level 1 learners articulated their experiences in the context of their learning journeys and perceived marginalization. The research took place at a large Further Education (FE) college and included a series of five “research encounters” with the group of Level 1 learners. These encounters included a range of activities, resulting in a variety of data being collected, including several activity worksheets, structured and unstructured focus group interviews, and questionnaires. This paper focusses on the outcomes of a single research activity that focused on exploring the topic of marginalization. We present a discussion on social haunting as one of the emerging findings from this research encounter, outlining how the reality of the social and cultural legacy of the UK’s industrial past can shape today’s youth and their futures. We will talk about the young men’s views of marginalization, their school-to-work transitions, the formation of masculinity in post-industrial communities and the role of Further Education in it. The paper concludes by discussing some insights for practice and future research.

Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by severe disabling headaches with a substantial global burden and elevated morbidity rates. Extensive research has established a clear association between migraine and sex/gender, with a notably higher incidence reported in females, reaching up to 18%, which is three times greater compared to males. Additionally, women commonly experience more intense pain and greater frequency of migraine symptoms, both with and without aura, highlighting the differential impact of sex/gender on migraine presentation. This review comprehensively examines the pathophysiology of migraine, with a particular focus on the effects of sex hormones in migraine pathophysiology and the central nervous system. Furthermore, we explore various treatment modalities tailored to gender differences, including pharmacological interventions and emerging therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, we explored alternative treatment strategies such as nutraceuticals and behavioural techniques, including mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted nature of migraine and the diverse therapeutic approaches available for their management.

This review stresses the need for geoscience and mining engineering students to be educated during their undergraduate studies in social and sustainability issues so they would have the skills and knowledge in their work after graduation, as professionals, to engage Indigenous People for mutual benefit. Large - scale mining development often takes place on Indigenous land and these educated mining professionals in their contact with these vulnerable communities must act in a responsible way. This includes the important mining policy issues and standards of corporate social responsibility (CSR), social license to operate and free, prior and informed consent from the Indigenous People before mining. For example, these policy standards issues would have been important to consider in Indonesia where the Indigenous Muluy Dayak community in East Kalimantan tried to resist large-scale mining operations by depicting their small-scale mining as part of their Indigenous customs and identity and in Australia where there was the recent destruction of an Aboriginal sacred site during large scale mining operations.

Socially Responsible Investments, also referred to as ethical or sustainable investments, have experienced rapid global growth in recent years. They represent an investment approach that incorporates social, environmental, and ethical considerations into decision-making processes. Consequently, the significance of SRIs has captured the attention of academics, prompting inquiries into the impact of integrating social criteria on portfolio performance. The primary objective of this work was to conduct a comparative study of the performance between socially responsible and non-socially responsible investment funds, using funds domiciled in Portugal and Spain. Various multi-factor models, including the three-factor model of Fama and French (1992), the four-factor model of Carhart (1997), and the five-factor model of Fama and French (2015), were employed to assess performance. The sample comprised 125 investment funds, with 43 identified as socially responsible and 82 as non-socially responsible. The study's findings indicate that there are no significant differences between socially responsible funds and their conventional counterparts. The majority of funds experience performance alterations during periods of crisis compared to crisis-free periods. Additionally, when comparing non-conditional models with conditional models, an improvement in the explanatory power of the latter is observed. This suggests that the inclusion of the dummy variable enhances the quality of fit for the models.

The combination of micro- or nanofluidics and strong light–matter coupling has gained much interest in the past decade, which has led to the development of advanced systems and devices with numerous potential applications in different fields, such as chemistry, biosensing, and material science. Strong light–matter coupling is achieved by placing a dipole (e.g. an atom or a molecule) into a confined electromagnetic field, with molecular transitions being in resonance with the field and the coupling strength exceeding the average dissipation rate. Despite intense research and encouraging results in this field, some challenges still need to be overcome, related to the fabrication of nano- and microscale optical cavities, stability, scaling up and production, sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and real-time control and monitoring. The goal of this paper is to summarize recent developments of micro- and nanofluidic systems employing strong light–matter coupling. An overview of various methods and techniques used to achieve strong light–matter coupling in micro- or nanofluidic systems is presented, preceded by a brief outline of the fundamentals of strong light–matter coupling and optofluidics operating in the strong coupling regime. The potential applications of these integrated systems in sensing, optofluidics, and quantum technologies are explored. The challenges and prospects in this rapidly developing field are discussed.

Abstract Introduction: Poor structural quality of health facilities for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis and treatment contributes to unfavorable health outcomes among TB patients. Improving the quality of healthcare services helps to avert TB-related morbidity. Despite these facts, the level of structural quality of health facilitieSs to deliver TB services is not in line with what the national TB and leprosy program (NTLP) recommends. Hence, the present study was conducted to assess the structural quality of health facilities to deliver quality TB services to TB patients among public health facilities in the Sidama region.Objectives: To determine the quality of the structural domain of TB services at public health facilities in the Sidama region of southern Ethiopia.Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June to July 2023 among randomly selected public health facilities in the Sidama region. We included 40 randomly selected public health facilities that delivered TB services in the study area. Data was collected by experienced data collectors using facility audits, clinical observation checklists, structured questionnaires, and in-depth interviews. An Open Kit Mobile (ODK) application was used to collect data and exported to SPSS version 26. All statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 26.Results: The overall mean quality score for the structural dimension was 50.25 among the 40 health facilities audited in the study area.Conclusion: The quality of TB services regarding structural dimensions was poor in the study area. Therefore, any strategies must give careful attention to increasing the comprehensive structural dimension of quality TB services.

Precision agriculture (PA) is a holistic, sustainable, innovative systems approach that assists farmers in production management. Adopting PA could improve sustainable food security and community economic sustainability. Developing an understanding of PA adoption attributes is needed to assist extension practitioners to promote adoption and better understand the innovation adoption phenomena. A systematic review of literature was conducted to investigate PA adoption. Thirty-three publications were examined, and four themes were found among the reviewed publications. The results were interpreted using Rogers’ diffusion of innovations framework to address the research objectives. Of the reviewed literature, we found relative advantage and compatibility were two dominant attributes to strengthen the adoption of PA, and the complexity attribute was rarely used to promote the adoption of PA. This study shows that change agents do not fully use five attributes of innovation when they promote PA technology to stakeholders to adopt. Thus, we recommend studies from the agricultural extension specialists’ perspectives in the future may determine contributions to motivate farmers’ adoption of PA, in particular related to complexity.

We review the basics of nuclear binding energy scheme assumed to be associated with the existence of a new strong elementary charge associated with square root of reciprocal of the strong coupling constant.

It is highly likely that the wearing of face masks reduces the rate of respiratory infections (e.g. SARS-CoV-2), to protect both the user and those around them. This paper sets out to review the areas that effect the efficacy of masks, the materials, design, hygiene and fit testing, in order to make recommendations as to how to make mask from resources found in most homes for when commercial models are unavailable. This paper finds that a mask constructed with a filter made from high thread count cotton is likely to provide a reasonable level of protection (~70% filtration) and that if a layers of other materials such as chiffon or silk is added the filtration may be much higher (~90%). There is also some promise in less available materials such as vacuum cleaner bags and air conditioner filters. Examples of fabric and rigid designs are reviewed but most are limited by the fit to the users which is hard to determine in a home setting. It would be extremely helpful if a method was devised for people to test or be tested for the fit of home made masks. In the mean time careful thought should be given to whether the user judges a good fit. Users should also be careful to practice other means of hygiene and distancing.

Here we analyze three well-known conjectures: (i) the existence of infinitely-many twin primes, (ii) Goldbach’s strong conjecture, and (iii) Polignac’s conjecture. We show that the three conjectures are related to each other. In particular, we see that in analysing the validity of the Goldbach’s strong conjecture, one must consider also the existence of an infinite number of twin primes. As a consequence of how we approach this analysis, we also observe that if this conjecture is true, then so is Polignac’s conjecture. Our first step is an analysis of the existence of infinitely-many twin primes numbers. For this, using the formula 4((n−1)!+1) ≡ −n (mod n(n + 2)) – satisfied if and only if (n, n + 2) are twin primes –, together with Wilson’s theorem, we obtain conditions that must be met for two numbers to be twin primes. Our results, obtained from an analytic and functional study, lead us to conclude that there may exist infinitely-many twin primes. Next, we consider the validity of the Goldbach’s strong conjecture. After showing that the conjecture is true for the first even numbers, we notice a pattern that we analyze for any even number, reducing it to three cases: (i) when the even number 2n is two times a prime number n; (ii) when the even number 2n is such that n = 2m, with 2m − 1 and 2m + 1 twin primes; (iii) all other cases, i.e., for any 2n even number ∀n ∈ N with n > 1, n prime or not, with independence of n = 2m being 2m−1 and 2m+1 twin primes or not. In this last case we show that one can always find a certain r ∈ N such that 1 < r < n satisfying that n−r and n+r are primes, so that their sum is 2n. In this case we use the reduction to absurd method, and our results lead us to conclude that Goldbach’s strong conjecture is true to the best of our calculations, as well as the Polignac’s conjecture.

Abstract Introduction PCa is one of the cancers that exhibits the widest disparity gaps. Geographical place of residence has been shown to be associated with healthcare access/utilization and PCa outcomes. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are widely being utilized for PCa disparities research, however, inconsistencies in their application exist. This systematic review will summarize GIS application within PCa disparities research, highlight gaps in the literature and propose alternative approaches. Methods This paper followed the methods of the Cochrane Collaboration and the criteria set of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Articles published in peer-reviewed journals were searched through the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases till December 2022. The main inclusion criteria were employing a GIS approach and examining a relationship between geographical components and PCa disparities. The main exclusion criteria were studies conducted outside the US and those that were not published in English. Results A total of 25 articles were included, 23 focused on PCa measures as outcomes: incidence, survival, and mortality while only two examined PCa management. GIS application in PCa disparities research was grouped into three main categories: mapping, processing, and analysis. GIS mapping allowed for the visualization of quantitative, qualitative, and temporal trends of PCa factors. GIS processing was mainly used for geocoding and smoothing of PCa rates. GIS analysis mainly served to evaluate global spatial autocorrelation and distribution of PCa cases, while local cluster identification techniques were mainly employed to identify locations with poorer PCa outcomes, soliciting public health interventions. Discussion Varied GIS applications and methodologies have been used in researching PCa disparities. Multiple geographical scales were adopted leading to variation in associations and outcomes. Geocoding quality varied considerably leading to less robust findings. Limitations in cluster-detection approaches were identified especially when variations were captured using the Spatial Scan Statistic. GIS approaches utilized in other diseases might be applied within PCa disparities research for more accurate inferences. A novel approach for GIS research in PCa disparities could be focusing more on geospatial disparities in procedure utilization especially when it comes to PCa screening techniques. Conclusion This systematic review summarized and described the current state and trend of GIS application in PCa disparities research. Although GIS is of crucial importance when it comes to PCa disparities research, future studies should rely on more robust GIS techniques, carefully select the geographical scale studied, and partner with GIS scientists for more accurate inferences. Such interdisciplinary approaches have the potential to bridge the gaps between GIS and cancer prevention and control to further advance cancer equity.

A rare genetic disorder caused by col18.a1 mutations, inherited mostly in autosomal recessive and rarely in autosomal dominant pattern, giving rise to ocular abnormalities and other associated disorders, the condition is referred to as Knobloch syndrome. This paper overviews the anterior and posterior ocular symptoms in Knobloch patients, thus demonstrating the major findings in Knobloch cases including the mutational analysis which discusses the proteins involved and exon number on which mutations are detected. Animal modeling done by knocking out col18.a1 has also been discussed to determine the functions of this gene which have been identified based on anomalies found in knock-out mice.

New setting is introduced to study the global powerful alliance. Global powerful alliance is about a set of vertices which are applied into the setting of neutrosophic graphs. Neighborhood has the key role to define this notion. Also, neighborhood is defined based on strong edges. Strong edge gets a framework as neighborhood and after that, too close vertices have key role to define global powerful alliance based on strong edges. The structure of set is studied and general results are obtained. Also, some classes of neutrosophic graphs excluding empty, path, star, and wheel and containing complete, cycle and r-regular-strong are investigated in the terms of set, minimal set, number, and neutrosophic number. Neutrosophic number is used in this way. It’s applied to use the type of neutrosophic number in the way that, three values of a vertex are used and they’ve same share to construct this number. It’s called “modified neutrosophic number”. Summation of three values of vertex makes one number and applying it to a set makes neutrosophic number of set. This approach facilitates identifying minimal set and optimal set which forms minimal-global-powerful-alliance number and minimal-global-powerful-alliance-neutrosophic number. Two different types of sets namely global-powerful alliance and minimal-global-powerful alliance are defined. Global-powerful alliance identifies the sets in general vision but minimal-global-powerful alliance takes focus on the sets which deleting a vertex is impossible. Minimal-global-powerful-alliance number is about minimum cardinality amid the cardinalities of all minimal-global-powerful alliances in a given neutrosophic graph. New notions are applied in the settings both individual and family. Family of neutrosophic graphs has an open avenue, in the way that, the family only contains same classes of neutrosophic graphs. The results are about minimal-global-powerful alliance, minimal-global-powerful-alliance number and its corresponded sets, minimal-global-powerful-alliance-neutrosophic number and its corresponded sets, and characterizing all minimal-global-powerful alliances, minimal-t-powerful alliance, minimal-t-powerful-alliance number and its corresponded sets, minimal-t-powerful-alliance-neutrosophic number and its corresponded sets, and characterizing all minimal-t-powerful alliances. The connections amid t-powerful-alliances are obtained. The number of connected components has some relations with this new concept and it gets some results. Some classes of neutrosophic graphs behave differently when the parity of vertices are different and in this case, cycle, and complete illustrate these behaviors. Two applications concerning complete model as individual and family, under the titles of time table and scheduling conclude the results and they give more clarifications and closing remarks. In this study, there’s an open way to extend these results into the family of these classes of neutrosophic graphs. The family of neutrosophic graphs aren’t study deeply and with more results but it seems that analogous results are determined. Slight progress is obtained in the family of these models but there are open avenues to study family of other models as same models and different models. There’s a question. How can be related to each other, two sets partitioning the vertex set of a graph? The ideas of neighborhood and neighbors based on strong edges illustrate open way to get results. A set is global powerful alliance when two sets partitioning vertex set have uniform structure. All members of set have more amount of neighbors in the set than out of set and reversely for non-members of set with less members in the way that the set is simultaneously t-offensive and(t-2)-defensive. A set is global if t=0. It leads us to the notion of global powerful alliance. Different edges make different neighborhoods but it’s used one style edge titled strong edge. These notions are applied into neutrosophic graphs as individuals and family of them. Independent set as an alliance is a special set which has no neighbor inside and it implies some drawbacks for these notions. Finding special sets which are well-known, is an open way to purse this study. Special set which its members have only one neighbor inside, characterize the connected components where the cardinality of its complement is the number of connected components. Some problems are proposed to pursue this study. Basic familiarities with graph theory and neutrosophic graph theory are proposed for this article.

In this preliminary investigation, a concise molecular docking study using the Pyrx program screened thousands of compounds against the active site of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. The Virtual Screening library was employed to assess binding energetics scores, focusing on identifying candidates with high Vina Scores. Eight compounds, including Tetrophan, Imatinib, Amentoflavone, Alprazolam, Bilobetin, Bafetinib, Nilotinib, and Ginketin, emerged as promising candidates with significant binding energies.Recognizing compounds that strongly bind to HIV-1 reverse transcriptase holds potential for antiretroviral drug development in the fight against HIV infection. Subsequently, the study evaluated the toxicity properties of these candidates using pKCSM. Amentoflavone, a natural biflavonoid found in Ginkgo biloba and Nilotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, demonstrated lower overall toxicity profiles compared to other candidates. Further toxicity analysis using Pro-Tox-II revealed Amentoflavone's higher predictive LD50, lower toxicity class, and reduced probabilities of hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and moderate immunotoxicity compared to Nilotinib. While Nilotinib, a pharmaceutical drug, exhibited higher probabilities of adverse effects in these categories. In summary, Amentoflavone and Nilotinib present as promising candidates with lower toxicity concerns. Amentoflavone, as a natural substance, showcases a more favorable toxicity profile than Nilotinib, offering valuable insights for potential therapeutic applications.

To understand the mystery of final unification, in our earlier publications, we proposed that, 1) There exist three atomic gravitational constants associated with electroweak, strong and electromagnetic interactions; and 2) There exists a strong interaction elementary charge (e_s) in such a way that, it's squared ratio with normal elementary charge is close to inverse of the strong coupling constant. In this context, starting from lepton rest masses to stellar masses, we have developed many interesting and workable relations. We noticed that, electroweak field seems to be operated by a primordial massive fermion of rest energy 585 GeV. It can be considered as the zygote of all elementary particles and galactic dark matter. Proceeding further, with a characteristic fermion-boson mass ratio of 2.27, quarks can be classified into quark fermions and quark bosons. Considering strong charge conservation and electromagnetic charge conservation, fractional charge quark fermions and quark bosons can be understood. Quark fermions that generate observable massive baryons can be called as Fluons. Quark bosons that generate observable mesons can be called as Bluons. By considering a new hadronic fermion of rest energy 103.4 GeV, rest masses of fluons and bluons can be estimated and there by baryon masses and meson masses can be estimated.

With reference to electromagnetic interaction and Abdus Salam’s strong (nuclear) gravity, 1) Square root of ‘reciprocal’ of the strong coupling constant can be considered as the strength of nuclear elementary charge. 2) ‘Reciprocal’ of the strong coupling constant can be considered as the maximum strength of nuclear binding energy. 3) In deuteron, strength of nuclear binding energy is around unity and there exists no strong interaction in between neutron and proton. $G_s\cong 3.32688\times {10}^{28}{\mathrm{m}}^3{\mathrm{kg}}^{-1}{\sec }^{-2}$ being the nuclear gravitational constant, nuclear charge radius can be shown to be, $R_0\cong \frac{2G_s{m}_p}{c^2}\cong 1.24\mathrm{fm}.$ $e_s\cong \left(\frac{G_s{m}_p^2}{\hslash c}\right)e\cong 4.716785\times {10}^{-19}\mathrm{C}$ being the nuclear elementary charge, proton magnetic moment can be shown to be, ${\mu }_p\cong \frac{e_s\hslash }{2m_p}\cong \frac{e{G}_s{m}_p}{2c}\cong 1.48694\times {10}^{-26}\mathrm{J}{.\mathrm{T}}^{-1}.$ ${\alpha }_s\cong {\left(\frac{\hslash c}{G_s{m}_p^2}\right)}^2\cong 0.1153795$ being the strong coupling constant, strong interaction range can be shown to be proportional to $\exp \left(\frac{1}{{\alpha }_s^2}\right).$ Interesting points to be noted are: An increase in the value of ${\alpha }_s$ helps in decreasing the interaction range indicating a more strongly bound nuclear system. A decrease in the value of ${\alpha }_s$ helps in increasing the interaction range indicating a more weakly bound nuclear system. From $Z\cong 30$ onwards, close to stable mass numbers, nuclear binding energy can be addressed with, ${\left(B\right)}_{A_s}\cong Z\times \left\{\left(\frac{1}{{\alpha }_s}+1\right)+\sqrt{\sqrt{30\times 31}}\right\}\left(m_n-m_p\right)c^2\approx Z\times 19.66\mathrm{MeV}.$ With further study, magnitude of the Newtonian gravitational constant can be estimated with nuclear elementary physical constants. One sample relation is, $\left(\frac{G_N}{G_s}\right)\cong \frac{1}{2}{\left(\frac{m_e}{m_p}\right)}^{10}\left[\sqrt{\frac{G_F}{\hslash c}}/\left(\frac{\hslash }{m_{e}c}\right)\right]$ where $G_N$ represents the Newtonian gravitational constant and $G_F$ represents the Fermi’s weak coupling constant. Two interesting coincidences are, ${\left(m_p/m_e\right)}^{10}\cong \exp \left(1/{\alpha }_s^2\right)$ and $2G_s{m}_e/c^2\cong \sqrt{G_F/\hslash c}.$

The purpose of this paper is to bring to light a method through which the global in time existence for arbitrary large in H¹ initial data of a strong solution to 3D periodic Navier-Stokes equations follows. The method consists of subdividing the time interval of existence into smaller sub-intervals carefully chosen. These sub-intervals are chosen based on the hypothesis that for any wavenumber m, one can find an interval of time on which the energy quantized in low-frequency components (up to m) of the solution u is lesser than the energy quantized in high-frequency components (down to m) or otherwise the opposite. We associate then a suitable number m to each one of the intervals and we prove that the norm ||u(t)||_H1 is bounded in both mentioned cases. The process can be continued until reaching the maximal time of existence T_max which yields the global in time existence of strong solution.

An attempt has been made to explore the relative contributions of moisture feedback processes on tropical intraseasonal oscillation or Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO). We focused on moisture feedback processes, including evaporation wind feedback (EWF) and moisture convergence feedback (MCF), which integrates the mechanisms of convective interactions in the tropical atmosphere. The dynamical framework considered here is a moisture-coupled, single-layer linear shallow-water model on an equatorial beta-plane with zonal momentum damping. With this simple approach, we aimed to recognize the minimal physical mechanisms responsible for the existence of the essential dispersive characteristics of the MJO, including its eastward propagation(k>0), the planetary-scale (small zonal wavenumbers) instability, and the slow phase speed of about ≈ 5 m/sec. Further, we extended our study to determine each feedback mechanism’s influence on the simulated eastward dispersive mode. Our model emphasized that the MJO-like eastward mode is a possible outcome of the combined effect of moisture feedback processes without requiring additional complex mechanisms such as cloud radiative feedback and boundary layer dynamics. The results substantiate the importance of EWF as an energy source for developing eastward moisture mode with a planter-scale instability. Moreover, our model endorses that the MCF alone could not produce instability without surface fluxes, although it has a significant role in developing deep convection. It is found that the MCF exhibits a damping mechanism by regulating the frequency and growth rate of the eastward moisture mode at shorter wavelengths.

The strong coupling between individual quantum emitters and resonant optical micro/nanocavities is beneficial to understand light and matter interactions. Here we propose a plasmonic nanoantenna placed on a metal film to achieve an ultra-high electric field enhancement in the nanogap and ultra-small optical mode volume. The strong coupling between a single quantum dot and the designed structure is investigated in detail by both numerical simulations and theoretical calculations. When a single QD is inserted into the nanogap of the silver nanoantenna, scattering spectra show remarkably large spectral splitting and typical anti-crossing behavior of the vacuum Rabi splitting, which can be realized in the scattering spectra by varying the nanoantenna thickness. Our work shows a possible way to enhance light-matter interaction at a single quantum emitter limit, which can be useful for future quantum and nanophotonic applications.

Hox gene clusters are crucial in Embryogenesis. It was observed that some Hox genes are located in order along the telomeric to centromeric direction of the DNA sequence: Hox1, Hox2, Hox3…. These genes are expressed in the same order in the ontogenetic units of the Drosophila embryo along the Anterior-Posterior axis. The two entities (genome and embryo) differ significantly in linear size and in-between distance. This strange phenomenon was named Spatial Collinearity (SP). Later, it was observed that, particularly in the Vertebrates, a Temporal Collinearity (TC) coexists: first is Hox1 expressed, later Hox2 and even later Hox3,…,. According to a Biophysical Model (BM), pulling forces act at the anterior end of the cluster while a cluster fastening applies at the posterior end. Hox clusters are irreversibly elongated along the force direction. During Evolution, the elongated Hox clusters are broken at variable lengths thus split clusters may be created. An Empirical Rule was formulated distinguishing development due to a complete Hox cluster from development due to split Hox clusters. BM can ‘explain’ this Empirical Rule. In a spontaneous mutation where the cluster fastening is dismantled, a weak pulling force automatically shifts the cluster inside the Hox activation domain. This cluster translocation can probably explain the absence of Temporal Collinearity in Drosophila.

In this preliminary investigation, a concise molecular docking study using the Pyrx program screened thousands of compounds against the active site of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. The Virtual Screening library was employed to assess binding energetics scores, focusing on identifying candidates with high Vina Scores. Eight compounds, including Tetrophan, Imatinib, Amentoflavone, Alprazolam, Bilobetin, Bafetinib, Nilotinib, and Ginketin, emerged as promising candidates with significant binding energies.Recognizing compounds that strongly bind to HIV-1 reverse transcriptase holds potential for antiretroviral drug development in the fight against HIV infection. Subsequently, the study evaluated the toxicity properties of these candidates using pKCSM. Amentoflavone, a natural biflavonoid found in Ginkgo biloba and Nilotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, demonstrated lower overall toxicity profiles compared to other candidates. Further toxicity analysis using Pro-Tox-II revealed Amentoflavone's higher predictive LD50, lower toxicity class, and reduced probabilities of hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and moderate immunotoxicity compared to Nilotinib. While Nilotinib, a pharmaceutical drug, exhibited higher probabilities of adverse effects in these categories. In summary, Amentoflavone and Nilotinib present as promising candidates with lower toxicity concerns. Amentoflavone, as a natural substance, showcases a more favorable toxicity profile than Nilotinib, offering valuable insights for potential therapeutic applications.

Accurate diagnosis for the 400 million people with rare diseases is critical for healthcare decisions, prognosis, understanding disease mechanisms, and identification of treatments. Despite advances in genome sequencing, barriers such as high interpretation costs, diagnostic expertise, throughput associated delays, and uncertain variant classifications persist, with demand exceeding capacity. Many variant classification methods focus narrowly on specific consequences, leading to the use of complex integrative pipelines that often overlook transcript variability and lack prediction transparency. To overcome these limitations, we introduce DITTO. This transparent, transcript-aware machine-learning method demonstrates superior overall performance in accuracy, recall, and precision when compared to existing tools. DITTO is publicly available at https://github.com/uab-cgds-worthey/DITTO

In the realm of metal steel and iron manufacturing, there is a constant drive to optimize production efficiency and enhance the quality of the final products. This abstract explores a paradigm shift in this industry through the utilization of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) as a powerful tool for achieving these goals .The study focuses on various critical aspects of the manufacturing process. Firstly, it delves into three-phase processes such as slag and gas entrainment in liquid steel, which have a significant impact on the overall product quality. Understanding and optimizing these processes is crucial to ensure the desired chemical composition and physical properties of the final metal.The abstract investigates the role of CFD in vacuum degassing, a process that plays a pivotal role in removing impurities, such as hydrogen and oxygen, from the liquid steel. By leveraging CFD to simulate and analyze the fluid flow patterns, researchers and engineers can design more efficient vacuum degassing systems, leading to improved product purity and reduced waste.Another crucial aspect explored in this abstract is the alloy melt and mixing process. By employing CFD simulations, researchers can gain insights into the movement of different alloy components and optimize their distribution within the melt. This aids in achieving the desired alloy composition, ensuring uniformity, and enhancing the mechanical properties of the final product.In addition, the study delves into the movement and flotation of inclusions, which are unwanted impurities present in the metal. CFD can be utilized to model and analyze the behavior of these inclusions, enabling engineers to design efficient strategies for their removal, thereby enhancing the purity and integrity of the final product.Moreover, the abstract considers the impact of melt temperature losses, which can occur during different stages of the manufacturing process. By employing CFD, it becomes possible to understand and mitigate these temperature losses, leading to improved energy efficiency and better control over the manufacturing parameters.Part 1 of this abstract critically evaluates the use of CFD in iron making, analyzing its benefits and limitations. It highlights how CFD can aid in process optimization, improving the understanding of complex phenomena involved in iron making, and ultimately leading to enhanced production efficiency.Part 2 focuses on the application of CFD in steel making and steel operation. It explores the fluid flow dynamics during different stages of steel production, including refining, casting, and rolling. By leveraging CFD, engineers can optimize these processes, leading to improved product quality, reduced defects, and increased productivity.This abstract demonstrates the transformative potential of Computational Fluid Dynamics in metal, steel, and iron manufacturing. By utilizing CFD as a tool to model and analyze complex fluid flow phenomena, researchers and engineers can revolutionize the production process, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring high-quality end products.

This study explores innovative strategies to enhance hands-on learning experiences in a Database Management Systems (DBMS) course while addressing challenges related to software installation complexities and financial barriers. The investigation focuses on an online course format catering to students majoring in information systems, healthcare administration, business administration, and marketing. Traditional software installation hurdles, especially for complex systems like Microsoft Access and MySQL, can impede students' engagement and access. To overcome these challenges, the study proposes leveraging cloud-based solutions and clientless remote desktop gateways like Apache Guacamole. Results indicate that these approaches effectively eliminate software installation obstacles, ensuring seamless access to essential tools for all students. The study underscores the importance of innovative technological solutions in promoting inclusive and impactful learning environments in higher education.

This study investigates the relationship between authentic leadership and socially responsible behavior among employees in Saudi Arabia's service sector. Utilizing social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework, the research proposes that authentic leadership indirectly influences socially responsible behavior through psychological empowerment and psychological capital as parallel and serial mediators. Additionally, the study examines the moderating effect of CSR perceptions on these relationships. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 349 professionals from the service sector. The results, analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), revealed that authentic leadership does not directly impact SRB. Instead, the relationship is fully mediated by psychological empowerment and psychological capital. Moreover, CSR perceptions significantly moderate the relationship between authentic leadership and psychological empowerment, as well as the indirect effects of authentic leadership on SRB through psychological empowerment and psychological capital. The findings highlight the importance of fostering an authentic leadership style and how psychological resources of empowerment, and psychological capital carry forward this effect to promote SRB in the service sector. Additionally, the study underscores the role of CSR perceptions in strengthening the impact of authentic leadership on employee outcomes. The research contributes to the literature on leadership, CSR, and employee behavior, and offers practical implications for organizations aiming to enhance their social responsibility initiatives.

We report the strong coupling between plasmonic surface lattice resonances (SLRs) and photonic Fabry-Pérot (F-P) resonances in a microcavity embedded with two-dimensional periodic array of metal-insulator-metal nanopillars. For such a plasmonic-photonic system, we show that the SLR can be strongly coupled to the F-P resonances of both the odd- and even orders, and that the splitting energy reaches as high as 138 meV in the visible regime. We expect that this work will provide a new scheme for strong coupling between plasmonic and photonic modes.

In this article, many experimental similarities between electromagnetic fields (which are applied in systems of electrons, atoms, and liquids) and strong interaction fields (which are applied in systems of quarks, nucleons, and nuclei) are reviewed. The currently accepted theories describing electromagnetic fields differ fundamentally from those describing strong fields. Therefore, the many similarities are quite surprising, and some are not adequately explained even today. Several such unexplained similarities are listed among the top open problems in particle physics, such as the “EMC effect,” the “proton spin crisis,” and the “strong CP problem.” This paper highlights, for the first time, the underlying common characteristics of these problems, potentially offering valuable contribution to future explanations.

This review explores the transformative impact of sensor technologies in early disease detection. It highlights recent advancements in nanotechnology-based sensors, particularly focusing on their applications in identifying disease biomarkers at early stages. The integration of these sensors with artificial intelligence for predictive analytics in healthcare is also discussed. Applications in cancer, infectious diseases, and chronic disease management underscore their diverse utility. Challenges in sensor technology adoption and future directions, including multiplexed sensors and wearable devices, are examined. This review underscores sensors' potential in enhancing disease management and patient outcomes.

At nuclear scale, we present three heuristic relations pertaining to strong and electroweak coupling constants. With these relations, close to beta stability line, it is possible to study nuclear binding energy with a single energy coefficient of magnitude $\left(\frac{1}{{\alpha }_s}\right)\left[\frac{e^2}{4\pi {\epsilon }_0{R}_0}\right]\approx 10.0\text{MeV}\text{.}$ With reference to up and down quark masses, it is also possible to interpret that, nuclear binding energy is proportional to the mean mass of $\left[\left(2m_u+m_d\right)\text{and}\left(m_u+2m_d\right)\right]\approx 10.0\text{MeV}.$

We construct a repeated quantum game with public goods by the quantum entanglement and strong reciprocity. By using the paradigm of quantum game analysis, we obtain that both the quantum entanglement and strong reciprocity are helpful to intensify cooperation and achieving Pareto optimality. In addition, under an example which is greenhouse green viable planting industry, we verify that the quantum entanglement and strong reciprocity have a positive role in cooperation.

The landscape of business intelligence (BI) is marked by rapid growth, extensive research, and practical implementations, reflecting its sustained relevance in modern business strategies. This paper delves into the dynamics of BI, particularly focusing on the interplay between maturity and agility. While BI maturity emphasizes optimization and predefined goals, BI agility prioritizes adaptability and response to change. The paper highlights the contradictions between these concepts, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach in BI strategy formulation.The role of organizational culture in fostering BI agility is explored through literature review and interviews with BI professionals. Key insights include the necessity of an open culture for effective BI utilization, clear strategic vision, decision delegation, information sharing, business-IT cooperation, and a learning-oriented mindset. These cultural factors contribute significantly to BI effectiveness and the ability to navigate dynamic business landscapes. The paper proposes pillars of agile maturity supported by an open organizational culture, including efficient communication, information integration, creative problem-solving, and close collaboration between business and IT. These pillars underscore the importance of a flexible and open mindset in navigating BI challenges and ensuring sustained value. Empirical validation and further research are suggested to deepen our understanding of the impact of organizational culture on BI agility and effectiveness.

We present simple relations for nuclear stability and nuclear binding energy with respect to three gravitational constants associated with electroweak, strong and electromagnetic interactions.

Nondipole terms in the atom-laser interaction arising due to the presence of a magnetic component in an electromagnetic wave and its inhomogeneity lead to nonseparability of the center-of-mass (CM) and electron variables in the neutral atom and, as a consequence, to its acceleration. We investigate this effect as well as the accompanying excitation and ionization processes for the hydrogen atom in strong (1012 - 2×1014 W/cm2) linearly polarized short-wavelength (5eV ≲ℏω≲ 27 eV) electromagnetic pulses of about 8 fs duration. The study has been carried out within the framework of a hybrid quantum-quasiclassical approach in which the coupled time-dependent Schrödinger equation for an electron and the classical Hamilton equations for the CM of an atom are simultaneously integrated. Optimal conditions with respect to the frequency and intensity of the electromagnetic wave for the acceleration of atoms without their noticeable ionization are found in the analyzed region.

The idea of strong and weak adjacencies between vertices has been generalized into fuzzy graphs and intuitionistic fuzzy graphs (IFGs) and it is an important part of making decisions. However, one or two membership degrees are not always sufficient for making decisions on real-world problems that need an answer of types “yes, neutral, and no". Consequently, in previous work, we generalized the concept into picture fuzzy graphs (PFGs) where each element in the PFG has membership, neutral, and non-membership degrees. Moreover, we constructed the notion of the coloring of PFGs based on strong and weak adjacencies between vertices. In this paper, we investigate some properties of the chromatic number of PFGs based on the concept of strong and weak adjacencies between vertices. According to the properties, we construct an algorithm to find the chromatic number of PFGs. The algorithm is usefull when we work with large PFGs. Further, we improve the method to implement the PFG’s coloring for determining traffic signal phasing at an intersection. A case study has also been done to evaluate the method.

We prove a quasi-pseudometric version of the strong Ekeland principle proved by P. Georgiev and T. Suzuki.

Pandemics, and other risk-related contexts, require dynamic changes in behavior as situations develop. Human behavior is influenced by both explicit (cognitive) and implicit (intuitive) factors. In this study, we used psychological distance as a lens to understand what influences our decision-making with regards to risk in the context of COVID-19. The study was based on the rationale that our relational needs are more concrete to us than the risk of the virus. First, we explored the impact of social-psychological distance on participants’ risk perceptions and behavioral willingness. As hypothesized, we found that close social relationships of agents promoted willingness to engage in risky behavior. In the second phase, we tested an intervention designed to increase the concreteness of information about virus transmission as a mechanism to mitigate the bias of social influence. We found that the concreteness intervention resulted in significantly reduced willingness to engage in risky behavior. As such, communications aimed at changing the behavior of citizens during times of increased risk or danger, should consider conceptually concrete messaging when communicating complex risk, and hence may provide a valuable tool in promoting health-related behavior.

The study evaluated the regenerative responses of the lacrimal functional unit (LFU) after Lacrimal Gland (LG) ablation. The LG of Wistar rats were submitted to G1) partial LG ablation, G2) partial ablation and transplantation of an allogeneic LG, or G3) total LG ablation, (n=7-10/group). The eye wipe test, slit-lamp image, tear flow, and histology were evaluated. RT-PCR analyzed inflammatory and proliferation mediators. The findings were compared to naïve controls after 1 and 2 months (M1 and M2). G3 presented increased corneal sensitivity, and the 03 groups have shown corneal neovascularization. Histology revealed changes in LG, and corneal inflammation. In the LG, there was an increase in MMP-9 mRNA of G1 and G2 at M1 and M2 and RUNX-1 at M1 and M2 in G1 and RUNX-3 mRNA at M1 in G1, and in G2 at M2. TNF-α mRNA rose in the corneas of G1 and G2 at M2. There was an increase in the IL-1β mRNA in the Trigeminal Ganglion of G1 at M1. Without changes in tear flow or evidence of LG regeneration, LG ablation or grafting are unreliable models for dry eye or LG repair in rats. The surgical manipulation extended inflammation to the LFU.

Ship pilots and maritime safety administration have an urgent need for more accurate and earlier warnings on strong wind gusts. This study firstly investigates the “Oriental Star” cruise ship cap-sizing event in 2015, one of the deadliest shipwreck events in recent years, and explores all related hydro-meteorological components in a global mesoscale model. It is found that, rather than the missing signal in raw surface wind prediction, the cumulus precipitation variable (CP) increases dramatically during the accident occurrence, which significantly corresponds to the sub-grid strong wind gust. The effective lead-time can be extended from 24hr (deterministic model) to 48hr (en-semble model). This finding is then verified in another two recent deadly cruise boat accidents. The introduction of the new variable is bearing the hope of improvement to the current maritime safeguard system, on predicting sub-grid strong wind gusts for small-size cruise boats in offshore and inland rivers. Finally, an automatic-response system is developed to provide economical con-vection prediction via Inmarsat email communication, aiming to explore operational severe con-vective gust early-warning and appropriate numerical mesoscale model application.

This study discusses the belonging, position, livelihood sustainability and vulnerabilities of fishery dependent nomadic community of Bangladesh. Nomads in Bangladesh are called as bede. With the technological advancements, infrastructural developments and advancements in medical science, ancient tradition and culture of the nomad’s community are in the verge of extinction. Fishing is found to be the most sustainable livelihood approach for nomadic community than any other professions. The average daily income is up to BDT 700±100 (mean ± standard deviation) during fishing season. Nomad community is a part of Bengali culture, but they are considered as socially backward community. They have faced numerous natural and anthropogenic threats and stressors affecting their traditional occupations and livelihoods which make their life more vulnerable. Natural drivers include climatic catastrophe, storms, winds, cyclone and tides. Anthropogenic drivers included ban period, dependency on single profession (fishing), lack of effective alternative income generating options, economic, social and cultural exclusion in the society. Proper measures should be taken to design the livelihood interventions of nomad fishers. The Government and responsible NGOs should take a holistic approach to livelihood intervention including financial support during the ban period and other unavoidable crises to continue their profession smoothly.

With reference to our earlier published views on large nuclear gravitational constant , nuclear elementary charge and strong coupling constant , in this paper, we present simple relations for nuclear stability range, binding energy of isotopes and magic proton numbers.

The survival rates of women with stage 0 or 1 breast cancer stands at almost 100% and around 93% for stage 2. As the disease advances with decreasing survival, the rate detoriates to 72% for stage 3 and about 22% for stage 4 (ACS, 2018). Undoubtedly, earlier presentation is synonymous with better prognosis and survival. In fact data indicates that early stage breast cancer diagnoses has 90% survival rate as compared to 27% for the advanced states (ACS, 2018). In this regard, governmental and non-governmental agencies are working tirelessly towards the realization of improved breast cancer care and survival through early presentation and detection. For instance, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 3.4 seeks to reduce by one third, premature mortality from cancers and other non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment. Clearly, early presentation, diagnoses and treatment will assist in the realization of the SDG target 3.4 goal. To achieve this, research must be focused on early presentation among women with breast cancer.. However, current studies have focused mainly on advanced breast cancer regarding treatment, symptoms experience (emotional and psychological), coping and support systems, and the reasons for delayed diagnoses and treatment. Objective In this review, it is argued that, rather than focusing on advanced breast cancer which has been adequately explored, the attention has to be on what measures or approaches promote early presentations among Ghanaian women. Methods The review included all primary studies that provided answers to the phenomenon of interest. It included both quantitative and qualitative studies. Search scope encompassed studies within the last ten years; thus from 2010 to 2020 irrespective of the country of study.Studies were included if: The paper is of a primary study; the study population included women with early BC or BC symptoms; the study outcome is the association between early stage breast cancer and earlier presentation; the study has a comprehensive data analysis protocol; the results of the studies are unique.A thorough literature search was conducted using the following electronic database: Google scholar and Pubmed. Google scholar alert on new studies was subscribed. This gave update on newly published papers for appraisal and possible inclusion.Manual identified of other potentially eligible publications by searching the reference lists of retrieved studies was also done. After a thorough search, this review included studies from several countries around the Globe such as Ireland, London, Turkey, Iran, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia etc Data Collection The title and or abstract of all retrieved papers were independently scanned through to establish which studies should be further evaluated. The full texts of these potential articles were then assessed. Extraction The Cochrane extraction form for data extraction was resorted to. From each eligible article, the following study identifiers/information were extracted: author(s), first author, year, title, objective, article type, location, setting, study design and method, sample size, instruments used, and results. Results Prompt help seekers mainly self-discovered their BC, and this occurred through accidental touch, after menstruation, through breastfeeding, during grooming, and while taking their bath.Notably, women who were termed prompt help seekers had higher seriousness perception of their symptoms. This was likened to their level of understanding and awareness, as well as periodic examination and comparison. Similarly, women who knew they were at risk for breast on account of family history, and increased incidence of BC in their localities, labeled their initial symptoms as requiring prompt attention.Following interpretation and labeling of symptoms, the participants generally resorted to symptom monitoring until the onset of additional and or intense symptoms. Though most women thought of benign growths, a few feared it could be malignant. These emotional reactions led the women to purposively seek clarification by selectively consulting others. Further, participants opened up to social acquaintances such as family relationships, people with prior experience of breast disease, and in some few instances health professionals. Some women also resorted to media items to better their understanding. Remarkably, prompt help seekers sort for help within one month. Last but not least, some women first communed with their creator after discovery and labeling based on their spiritual affiliations.Also, researchers should consider conducting surveys to assess the BC risks for specific smaller groups. This would help tailor specific educational interventions to promote earlier presentation and treatment among the vulnerable.

The Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (RGNEF) protein encoded by the ARHGEF28 gene has been implicated in the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Biochemical and pathological studies have shown that RGNEF is a component of the hallmark neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions in ALS-affected neurons. Additionally, a heterozygous mutation in ARHGEF28 has been identified in a number of familial ALS (fALS) cases that may give rise to one of two truncated variants of the protein. Little is known about the normal biological function of RGNEF or how it contributes to ALS pathogenesis. To further explore RGNEF biology we have established and characterized a yeast model and characterized RGNEF expression in several mammalian cell lines. We demonstrate that RGNEF is toxic when overexpressed and forms inclusions. We also found that the fALS-associated mutation in ARGHEF28 gives rise to an inclusion-forming and toxic protein. Additionally, through unbiased screening using the split-ubiquitin system, we have identified RGNEF interacting proteins, including two ALS-associated proteins. Functional characterization of other RGNEF interactors identified in our screen suggest that RGNEF functions as a microtubule regulator. Our findings indicate that RGNEF misfolding and toxicity may cause impairment of the microtubule network and contribute to ALS pathogenesis.

Some studies investigated the relationship between frequency domain analysis of heart rate variability and the cognitive performance at the Stroop task. We propose a combined assessment also of trunk mobility in 72 healthy women to investigate the relationship between cognitive, cardiac and motor variables based on a principal component analysis. We also assessed the change on this result after an intervention of two months aiming at improving the perception-action link. At baseline, the PCA correctly identified 3 components: one related to cardiac variables, one to trunk motion and one to the performance of Stroop task. After the intervention, only two components were found with trunk symmetry and range of motion, accuracy and time to complete the Stroop task and low frequency heart rate variability aggregated in a single component by PCA. It suggested that this protocol was effective in investigating the embodied cognition and we defined this approach as “embodimetrics”.

As there exist no repulsive forces in strong interaction, in a hypothetical approach, strong interaction can be assumed to be equivalent to a large gravitational coupling. Based on this concept, strong coupling constant can be defined as a ratio of the electromagnetic force and the gravitational force associated with proton, neutron, up quark and down quark. With respect to the product of strong coupling constant and fine structure ratio, we review our recently proposed two semi empirical relations and coefficients 0.00189 and 0.00642 connected with nuclear stability and binding energy. We wish to emphasize that- by classifying nucleons as ‘free nucleons’ and ‘active nucleons’, nuclear binding energy can be fitted with a new class of ‘three term’ formula having one unique energy coefficient. Based on the geometry and quantum nature, currently believed harmonic oscillator and spin orbit magic numbers can be considered as the lower and upper “mass limits” of quark clusters.

In the process of oil and gas development and production, when the flow rate in the wellbore is large, the materials underground will be eroded, causing the operation to be unable to proceed smoothly and reducing the efficiency of oil and gas production. Therefore, optimizing the anti-erosion coating under high-speed flow conditions in wellbore is a very interesting thing. It can greatly improve operational efficiency. In this paper, laser cladding was used to prepare the new coating used in the PDC drill bit. Then, the effects of tungsten carbide and multi-layer graphene on the microstructure and properties of the tungsten carbide coating were studied. The research results indicate that, for new coatings, 60% tungsten carbide and 0.3% graphene are the optimal ratios. After adding WC, the hardness has significantly improved. However, when the WC content further increases more than 30%, the increase in hardness is relatively small. In addition, when the content of graphene is more than 0.3%, the branched structure became thicker, and not only the segregation of Cr, Si and W became very obvious again, but also the segregation of Fe occurred at the Ni enrichment site. The research results contribute to improving oil and gas production and operational efficiency under high-speed fluid flow conditions in the wellbore.

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) represents a pivotal advancement in AI with far- reaching implications across technological, ethical, and societal domains. This paper addresses the following: (1) an in-depth assessment of AGI’s transformative potential across different sectors and its multifaceted implications, including significant financial impacts like workforce disruption, income inequality, productivity gains, and potential systemic risks; (2) an examination of critical ethical considerations, including transparency and accountability, complex ethical dilemmas and societal impact; (3) a detailed analysis of privacy, legal and policy implications, particularly in intellectual property and liability, and (4) a proposed governance framework to ensure responsible AGI development and deployment. Additionally, the paper explores and addresses AGI's political implications, including national security and potential misuse. By analyzing and considering computer science, philosophy, economics, and policy perspectives, we offer a multidisciplinary view of AGI’s challenges and opportunities, advocating for proactive measures to align AGI development with human values and societal interests.

Background and Aims: Sustained virologic response (SVR) lead to the decrease of portal hypertension, the regression of fibrosis, the improvement of the hepatic synthesis of procoagulant and anticoagulant factors. We aimed to assess the influence of SVR on coagulation parameters in HCV cirrhotic patients treated with DAAs. Methods: We performed a prospective study in the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Iasi, Romania, between January 2022 and February 2024. We included patients diagnosed with compensated and decompensated HCV-related liver cirrhosis, treated with direct antivirals (PrOD ± RBV or SOF/LED ± RBV) for 12/24 weeks. Blood samples for biochemical, immunological and coagulation tests were collected at baseline, EOT and SVR12/24. Results: We analyzed a group of 52 patients with HCV-related liver cirrhosis, predominantly female (68.0%), the degree of severity of cirrhosis placed the patients mainly in Child-Pugh classes B (40%) and C (36%). All patients achieved SVR. The MELD score decrease at EOT (13.48 ± 4.273; p =0.001), and SVR (9.88 ± 2.774; p = 0.000), compared to baseline (14.92 ± 4.707). Fibroscan values decreased at SVR (17.596 ± 3.7276; p = 0.000) compared to baseline (26.068 ± 7.0954). For all common coagulation parameters (platelets, INR, PT, fibrinogen, aPTT) there was a trend towards improvement during treatment, changes that were statistically significant for the majority of patients. Factor II low at baseline (75.40 ± 7.506), increases at EOT (87.40 ± 9.587), and later at SVR (99.12 ± 11.695; p = 0.000). FVIII values increased at baseline (175.52 ± 16.414) decrease at EOT (151.48 ± 13.703) and SVR (143.40 ± 13.937). FvW values decreased during treatment (146.84 ± 9.428 – baseline, 141.32 ± 9.690; p =0.000 – EOT, 126.68 ± 17.960 – SVR). In regards to the anticoagulant factors (PC, PS, ATIII), a significant improvement was brought on by SVR. Advanced stages of liver disease showed the most diminished FII activity, while at baseline and in Child-Pugh C patients we recorded the highest values of FVIII and FvW. Conclusions: Our study proved that the “reset” of the coagulopathy might be due to the improving of the liver function due to viral eradication secondary to AAD therapy.

Introduction. Anesthesia is widely used in various fields of dentistry to reduce patient discomfort when the treatment would be painful. The dentist may need to infiltrate the anesthetic into multiple locations and this is usually done with the same needle which passes through the soft tissues several times to distribute the anesthetic solution over a larger area. The present study aims to evaluate, through a morphological analysis under a scanning electron microscope (SEM), how the beveled tip of a 30G needle, used to inject anesthetic several times into different areas of the vestibular mucosa, changes. Materials and methods. 30G needles with two different brands were tested, in vivo used for a variable number of sequential injections from 1 to 6 on 192 patients. The specimens were analyzed under SEM observation to evaluate any deformations induced by contact with the vestibular soft tissues. Results. The amount of deformation, measured along the axis parallel to the needle, was proportional to the number of injections. The protrusion of deformations, measured on an axis perpendicular to the needle, were maximum on the needles used 3 times. For the needles used 4,5 and 6 injections, no further increase in deformations was noted. Conclusion. From the data it seems that the tested needles are not produced to withstand multiple injections consequently after the first injection on soft tissues, they undergo a deformation which could increase the risk of injury to the mucosa itself or to nerves and vessels with which they come into contact. It would be advisable to use the single needle for a reduced number of injections.

Harnessing the Remarkable Bio-Remediation Potential of Vernonia spp. for the Sustainable Restoration of Hydrocarbon-Polluted Clay Soil in Ogoni Land, Nigeria This study explores the potential of utilizing Vernonia spp. for eco-friendly bio-remediation of hydrocarbon-polluted clay soil in Ogoni Land, Nigeria. The aim is to find a sustainable and effective solution that promotes the restoration of the polluted soil while minimizing the use of external additives. The process of bio-remediation can occur naturally, through natural attenuation or intrinsic bio-remediation. However, it has been observed that in certain cases, the addition of fertilizers, oxygen, or organic matter is required to enhance the effectiveness of bio-remediation. In this research, we focus on the bio-remediation potential of Vernonia spp., a native plant species known for its strong phytoremediation abilities. By harnessing the remarkable bio-remediation properties of Vernonia spp., we seek to restore the hydrocarbon-polluted clay soil in Ogoni Land in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner. Our methodology involves conducting greenhouse experiments to assess the bio-remediation efficiency of Vernonia spp. in different soil conditions. We will analyze the soil's physical and chemical properties, as well as the degradation of hydrocarbons over time. The experimental results will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of Vernonia spp. in removing hydrocarbon pollutants from clay soil. Through this study, we aim to develop a cost-effective and sustainable approach to restore hydrocarbon-polluted clay soil in Ogoni Land. By leveraging the natural bio-remediation potential of Vernonia spp., we can potentially reduce the reliance on external additives, thus minimizing the environmental impact associated with traditional remediation methods. The research article explores methods to promote the growth of pollution-eating microbes in order to enhance bio-remediation. Bio-remediation refers to the use of naturally occurring organisms to break down harmful substances into less toxic or non-toxic forms. In situ bio-remediation involves treating the contaminated material directly at the site, while ex-situ bio-remediation involves removing the contaminated material for treatment elsewhere. This study specifically investigates ex-situ bio-remediation techniques for hydrocarbon-contaminated clay soil. The researchers found that the application of room dry and wet blended bitter leaf showed promising results in the bio-remediation of hydrocarbons in the clay soil. Using Vernonia galamensis, a concentration as high as 0.55 ug/ml was achieved, while Vernonia amygdalina yielded a concentration as high as 0.67 ug/ml when applied at 35g and 40g respectively, based on the wet blended approach. These findings highlight the effectiveness of wet blended Vernonia species in the bio-remediation process.During the remediation process of the clay soil, the pH levels showed a trend of increasing from acidic to normal to alkaline. This can be attributed to the remediation of excessive metals present in the soil. After 40 days, the pH of the clay soil reached 6.97 when treated with 40 grams of Vernonia galamensis, and 7.00 when treated with 40 grams of Vernonia amygdalina. Interestingly, while the remediation efficiency of HC (hydrocarbon) decreased with increasing mass of Vernonia galamensis, the remediation efficiency of HC increased when using Vernonia amygdalina. These observations highlight the varying effects of different Vernonia species on hydrocarbon remediation.The highest remediation values were observed when using Vernonia galamensis at 35g and Vernonia amygdalina at 40g. These particular amounts of these Vernonia species demonstrated effective remediation of the targeted pollutants. However, in comparison to other metals, the remediation effects were relatively lower for zinc (Zn), with only approximately 0.25 ug/ml being remediated. This suggests that the remediation potential of the Vernonia species may vary depending on the specific contaminant.The higher remediation effects observed for Zn metal in the soil can be attributed to the wet blended preparation method of the Vernonia species. In contrast, the room dried Vernonia species exhibited the lowest performance in remediating the soil, with approximately 0.17 ug/ml and 0.10 ug/ml remediation for galamensis and amygdalina, respectively. Both Vernonia leaf extracts achieved a remediation of 0.5 ug/ml for chromium. The sun dried and room dried methods also showed considerable remediation potential, with values above 0.4 ug/ml. The level of significance for the model was attained at 0.05, and the r2 value was appreciable. These findings indicate the effectiveness of different preparation methods and Vernonia species in soil remediation

Social responsibility is imperative for its important function in the growth of societies and organizations. However, the research on corporate social responsibility (OSR) has predominantly focused on the actions of organizations. Not much has been discussed regarding the employee's behaviours in promoting the development of social responsibility within organizations. CI is known for its significant role in the organization's various outcomes, Although a conceptualization and some empirical support have been provided for its relationship with the behaviour of employees, However, the effect of CI on employee socially responsible behaviours has not yet been investigated. In this article, following OC and OI theories, we improve the research model which can describe mechanisms underpinning through which CI, OI and POS support actions for employees' social responsibility. Data was collected from members of service professionals in Saudi Arabia and examined using Structural Equation Modeling- Partial Least Squares. The findings indicated that CI actions and activities develop the skills that motivate employees to support social responsibility inside and outside the organization. Moreover, our research paper explained the mechanism under which CI activities reshape employees' socially responsible manners. The current study is among the first to look at how to modify the socially responsible behaviour of employees across organizations, which can be a starting point for transforming those employees into a sustainable society.

Introduction and Purpose: Nurses are expected to be competent in practice based on the domain of standards and interpersonal soft skills (ISS). Nurses are faced with inadequate physical assessment 28%, formulating diagnoses 56%, plans 34%, implementation 31%, evaluation 37,5%, and communication skills 41%. Aims to develop an ISS learning model based on transformative learning theory and digitalization (TLTD) to improve nurses’ competencies. Method: Used Explanatory cross-sectional involved 190 practitioner nurses. Variables of individual characters (X1), facilities (X2), Social environment support/SES (X3), TLTD (X4), ISS (X5), and nursing competencies (Y) were measured. Data was collected using a checklist questionnaire, conducted on 6 June to 10 August 2022 at Dili, Baucau, and Maliana hospitals. Used descriptive and inferential analysis with SEM-PLS. Result: Five of the 11 hypotheses of statistical p-value < 0,05 and T-Test > 1,96, including X2>X4, X3>X5, X4>X5, and X5>y, to form ISS learning model. The characteristic of respondents were 81,8% young adults, 67,9% women, 57,8% undergraduates, judging the previous training 35% was unsuccessful, and 45,8% did not meet expectations. Learning facilities that are still lacking include policies 23,7%, curriculum 23,4%, guideline 22,7%, modules 27,9%, infrastructure 20,3%, social environment support 24,2% low, organizational support, 30,0% low peer support and 26,3% low family support. The average TLTD is 25,3% to 34,2%, ISS 22,1% to 30,5%, and nurse competence 25,3% to 30,5%.Suggestion: Result of the study become base to improve nurse’s competencies. Conclusion: Learning model was formed by facilities, SES, TLTD, ISS, and nurses’ competencies.

An attempt is made to model the atomic nucleus as a combination of bound and free or unbound nucleons. Due to strong interaction, bound nucleons help in increasing nuclear binding energy and due to electroweak interaction, free or unbound nucleons help in decreasing nuclear binding energy. In this context, with reference to proposed 4G model of final unification and strong interaction, recently we have developed a unified nuclear binding energy scheme with four simple terms, one energy coefficient of 10.1 MeV and two small numbers 0.0016 and 0.0019. In this paper, by eliminating the number 0.0019, we try to fine tune the estimation procedure of number of free or unbound nucleons pertaining to the second term with an energy coefficient of 11.9 MeV. It seems that, some kind of electroweak interaction is playing a strange role in maintaining free or unbound nucleons within the nucleus. It is possible to say that, strong interaction plays a vital role in increasing nuclear binding energy and electroweak interaction plays a vital role in reducing nuclear binding energy. Interesting observation is that, Z can be considered as a characteristic representation of range of number of bound isotopes of Z. For medium, heavy and super heavy atoms, beginning and ending mass numbers pertaining to bound states can be understood with 2Z+0.004Z^2 and 3Z+0.004Z^2 respectively. With further study, neutron drip lines can be understood. Based on this kind of data fitting procedure and by considering the mass ratio of pions and electroweak bosons, existence of our 4G model of electroweak fermion of rest energy 584.725 GeV can be confirmed confidently.

Metal nanoparticles supporting plasmons are widely used to enhance electromagnetic fields, resulting in strong light-matter interactions at the nanoscale in a diverse range of applications. Recently, it has been shown that when metal nanorods are periodically arranged with proper lattice periods, surface lattice resonances (SLRs) can be excited and near fields can be greatly enhanced over extended volumes. In this work, we report significant near field enhancement over even larger volumes by placing the metal nanorod array within a Fabry-Pérot (F-P) microcavity. Results show that taking advantage of strong coupling between the SLR and the photonic F-P resonances, the electric field intensity of the bonding split mode can be enhanced by up to 1935 times, which is about three times of the enhancement of the SLR, and the greatly enhanced field can extend over most of the F-P microcavity. We further show that the F-P resonances of both odd and even orders can strongly couple to the SLR by varying the nanorods position from the middle of the microcavity. We expect that the proposed plasmonic-photonic coupling system will find promising applications in nanolasers, nonlinear optics and sensing.

A Berry geometrical phase is identified in a strongly metastable system containing dynamically responsive clathrate hydrate structures within a crystal-fluid material. High energy degeneracy in the associated chemistry produces local stability and false vacuum conditions that lead to non-extensive and non-additive contributions in the fundamental thermodynamic relation. Application of Ginzburg-Landau theory and the scaling laws reveals a coherence length and a penetration depth for a macro-scale dual superconductor. The coherence length determines non-extensive volume changes whilst its inverse gives the Higgs mass. The penetration depth determines the extent of QCD vacuum suppression whilst its inverse gives the vector boson mass together with indirect manifestation as non-additive hyperbolic curvature. Simultaneous emergence of the Ginzburg-Landau superconducting phase transition is consistent with gauge-invariant coupling of the scalar field to the Yang-Mills action in QCD. The discovery of an energy gap in the gradient energy term of the system Lagrangian is associated with a critical correlation length revealed in the transition from a gapped to a gapless superconducting state. Together with the emergence and absorption of the Higgs-like scalar field, a mechanism for describing a renormalized QCD mass gap arises.

We examine data assimilation coupling between meteorology and chemistry in the stratosphere from both weak and strong coupling strategies. The study was performed with the Canadian operational weather prediction Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) model coupled online with the photochemical stratospheric chemistry developed at the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy, described in Part I. Here, the Canadian Meteorological Centre’s operational variational assimilation system was extended to include errors of chemical variables and cross-covariances between meteorological and chemical variables in a 3D-Var configuration, and we added the adjoint of tracer advection in the 4D-Var configuration. Our results show that the assimilation of limb sounding observations from the MIPAS instrument on board Envisat can be used to anchor the AMSU-A radiance bias correction scheme. Also, the added value of limb sounding temperature observations on meteorology and transport is shown to be significant. Weak coupling data assimilation with ozone-radiation interaction is shown to give comparable on meteorology whether a simplified linearized or comprehensive ozone chemistry scheme is used. Strong coupling data assimilation, using static error cross-covariances between ozone and temperature in a 3D-Var context, produced inconclusive results with the approximations we used. We have also conducted the assimilation of long-lived species observations using 4D-Var to infer winds. Our results showed the added value of assimilating several long-lived species, and an improvement in the zonal wind in the Tropics within the troposphere and lower stratosphere. 4D-Var assimilation also induced a correction of zonal wind in the surf zone and a temperature bias in the lower tropical stratosphere

This article explores the cutting-edge advancement of gypsum and cement building boards infused with shape-stabilized n-octadecane, an organic phase change material (PCM). The primary focus is on improving energy efficiency and providing electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capabilities for contemporary buildings. The research investigates the integration of these materials into construction materials, using red-mud Carbon Foam as a stabilizer for n-octadecane (OD@CCF). Various analyses, including microstructural examination, porosity assessment, and additive dispersion, were conducted using X-ray microtomography and density measurements. Thermal conductivity measurements demonstrated the enhancement of composite boards as the OD@CCF content increased, while mechanical tests indicated an optimal additive content of up to 20%. The thermal-regulated capabilities of these advanced panels were evaluated in a custom-designed room model equipped with a homemade environmental chamber, illustrating a consistent temperature environment during heating and cooling cycles. The incorporation of OD@CCF into cement boards exhibited improved thermal energy storage properties. Moreover, the examined composite boards displayed efficient electromagnetic shielding performance within the frequency range of 3.2–7.0 GHz, achieving EMI values of approximately 18 and 19.5 dB for gypsum and cement boards, respectively, meeting the entry-level value required for commercial applications.

The continues evolution of coronaviruses has gained considerable attention prior to the outbreak of COVID 19. Although, COVID-19 is currently not recognized as a global pandemic, the virus's ability to evolve and cause disease outbreaks in both humans and animals necessitates ongoing research into its genetic and structural characteristics. Therefore, understanding the molecular origin, rapid evolution, as were as the immunogenicity of coronaviruses is a critical step towards preparing for and preventing future outbreaks. This study aimed to uncover the genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships among the main viral proteins of SARS-CoV-2 and other related coronaviruses. Amino acid sequences of structural viral proteins spike glycoprotein, nucleocapsid protein, membrane protein, and envelope protein were retrieved from the NCBI database for SARS-CoV-2 and 13 other coronaviruses. Here, we identified that SARS-CoV-2 is closely related to BatCoV RaTG13 and Pangolin-CoV, suggesting their potential role in the emergence of the virus. Additionally, we predicted novel epitopes, glycosylation sites, and cleavage sites, identifying three novel glycosylation sites (NATR, NXSN, and NGTK) and six new CTL epitopes (XSNQVAVLY, NSFTRGVYY, NATRFASVY, STQDLFLPF, NSASFSTFK, and ASFSTFKCY). Our comparative analysis revealed that BatCoV RaTG13 has the closest cleavage site to SARS-CoV-2, with significant similarities also observed with Pangolin-CoV. The study highlighted the unique features of SARS-CoV-2, including its furin cleavage site, which may account for its high infectivity during the pandemic. These findings contribute to the understanding of SARS-CoV-2 evolution and its relationship with other coronaviruses, providing critical insights for the development of broad-spectrum vaccines and antiviral therapies.

In the smart city, information and communications technologies (ICTs) are proposed as solutions to urban challenges, including sustainability concerns. While sustainability commonly refers to economic and environmental dimensions, the concept also contains a social component. Our study asked how smartphone applications (apps) address social sustainability challenges in urban transport, if at all. We focused on transport disadvantages experienced due to low income, physical disability, and language barriers. A review of 60 apps showed that transport apps respond to these equity and inclusion issues in two ways: (a) by employing universal design in general-use apps; including cost-conscious features; and providing language options (b) by specifically developing smartphone apps for persons with disabilities. The article discusses the study by positioning it in the literature of smart cities as well as socially sustainable transport.

This paper first explains the theory of the origin of force from a new perspective, explaining that the origin of all forces is caused by the "missing of energy in the time dimension" (non-conservation in a certain period of time), and constructs a unified theory of force on this basis. Then, through the unified theory of force, the following phenomena are reinterpreted: (1) The common origin of the inverse square law of gravitation and electromagnetic force; (2) The origin of the repulsive force of electrons and protons at small distances; (3) The mystery of the rotation curve of galaxies and the new explanation of "dark matter"; (4) explain the origin of the magnetic field; (5) Predict that moving magnets have the same radiation effect as charged particles (electron magnetic moments also have radiation effects); (6) Reinterpret Maxwell's displacement current; (7) Reinterpret synchrotron radiation and bremsstrahlung; (8) Explain that the strong and weak forces are short-range forces; (9) Predict the true structure of black holes and the origin of gravitational waves;(10) Possible explanation for the origin of the speed of light.

Porous α-Al2O3 ceramics is a highly demanded material for multitude applications such as filters, substrates, biomedicine materials, etc. Despite the availability of the raw materials, a challenge of their technology is in a high energy budget caused by the sintering above 1500 °C. For a cold sintering processing (CSP) of ceramics, the lowering of α-Al2O3 sintering temperature is one of the most urgent challenges at the background of its rapid development. The current paper for the first time demonstrates the solution of the mentioned problem by the CSP of α-alumina ceramics in a presence of pure water as a transient liquid. The manufactured materials were examined by XRD analysis; the evolution of their microstructures during the CSP was revealed by SEM, and the porosity evaluated by the Archimedes method. The ceramics with an open porosity up to 36 % was produced at 380-450 °C, 220 MPa in 30 min. An increase in the pressure was found to impede α-Al2O3 formation from γ-AlOOH. The development of the microstructure was discussed within the frameworks of the dissolution-precipitation model and the homogenous nucleation. The results of the SEM study pointed to the coalescence of γ-AlOOH grains during the CSP.

In this paper, the authors employ Mountain Pass Lemma, the method of weak solution regularization and Lyapunov function method to derive the unique existence of globally exponential stable positive stationary solution of a single-species model with diffusion and delayed feedback. The obtained stability criterion illuminates that under some suitable conditions, a certain internal competition is conducive to the overall stability of the population, and a certain amount of family planning is conducive to the overall stability of the population. A numerical example and three tables show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.

Quantum correlations, especially time correlations, are crucial in ghost imaging in order to significantly reduce the background noise on the one hand while increasing the imaging resolution. Moreover, the time correlations serve as a critical reference, distinguishing between signal and noise, which in turn enable clear visualization of biological samples. Quantum imaging also addresses the challenge involved in imaging delicate biological structures with minimal photon exposure and sample damage. Here we explore the recent progress in quantum correlation-based imaging, notably its impact on secure imaging and remote sensing protocols as well as on biological imaging. We also exploit the quantum characteristics of heralded single-photon sources (HSPS) combined with decoy-state methods for secure imaging. This method uses Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) principles to reduce measurement uncertainties and protect data integrity. It is highly effective in low-photon-number regimes for producing high-quality, noise-reduced images. The versatility of decoy-state methods with WCSs (WCS) is also discussed, highlighting their suitability for scenarios requiring higher photon numbers. We emphasize the dual advantages of these techniques: improving image quality through noise reduction and enhancing data security with quantum encryption, suggesting significant potential for quantum imaging in various applications, from delicate biological imaging to secure quantum communication.

In the decarbonization of the steel, cement, and chemical industry in Germany, green hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role. The utilization of green hydrogen in the production processes of said industries requires organizations to modify their business model, requiring sustainable business model innovation (SBMI). Numerous tools and frameworks that support organizations in the process of SBMI have been proposed in the literature in recent years. However, the applicability of these tools and frameworks for steel, cement, and chemical companies that intend to utilize green hydrogen to produce their goods remains unexplored. By conducting a systematic literature review on tools and frameworks for SBMI, a literature and practice review to identify and analyze existing green hydrogen projects of steel, cement, and chemical companies, and an evaluation of the identified tools and frameworks in an evaluation matrix, this paper aims to assess the suitability of SBMI tools and frameworks for steel, cement, and chemical companies that plan to use green hydrogen to produce their goods. Based on the evaluation, the Cambridge Business Model Innovation Process (CBMIP) was identified as the most suitable SBMI framework.

The presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on veterinary clinic surfaces may be problematic. In this study we collected swab samples (Fisherbrand, double transport swabs with Stuart’s liquid medium) and water samples from five veterinary rehabilitation clinics. Swabs and water samples were transported to a microbiology lab for processing. At the lab swabs were used to inoculated Hardy’s Cdiff Banana broth (for Clostridium difficile [Cdiff]), and five different types of bacterial growth media, including: Hardy CHROM MRSA agar (methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA], and S. pseudintermedius [SIM]), Mannitol Salt Agar (S. aureus), Eosin Methylene Blue agar (enterics [ENT]), Pseudomonas Isolation agar (Pseudomonas sp.), and Tryptic Soy Agar [TSA] (non-specific). The most prominent species cultured was Cdiff (on nearly 55% of swabs). Bacillus sp. and Enterics were encountered on nearly 35% of swabs, with MRSA and SIM on just over 10% of swabs. The most contaminated sample site was harnesses/life jackets used with the underwater treadmill (33% of swabs). Underwater treadmill water had total bacterial counts from 1.6 to 2.7 e3 cfu/ml. Of all bacterial species detected SIM tends to be more pathogenic for dogs. Targeted cleaning/disinfecting in these clinics could help reduce risks for both animals and caregivers utilizing these clinics.

Rationale: Genetically modified (GM) foods have the potential to reduce food insecurity and address economic and environmental issues. Despite these benefits, GM foods continue to face significant criticism and there is limited information on public awareness and understanding of their nutritional and environmental health benefits in Nigeria. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating public knowledge and perceptions of GM foods in Victoria Island, Lagos. Methods: A convenience sampling method was used to recruit 369 respondents from Victoria Island, Lagos. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The target population comprised employed adults either residing or working on Victoria Island. Statistical analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between sociodemographic factors and awareness of GM foods. Results: The study found that a majority of respondents (62.9%, n=232) were knowledgeable about GM foods and their associated issues. However, many believed that their community was not well-informed on the topic. Awareness of GM foods was significantly associated with sociodemographic factors such as marital status and education (P<0.01). Most respondents were well-informed about the environmental and health benefits of GM foods, with 61.8% believing that GM food production could sustainably reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, fertilizers, and other energy inputs, thus mitigating their ecological impacts. Additionally, most respondents did not feel that purchasing or consuming GM foods conflicted with their beliefs or would affect their food choices. Conclusion: The study concludes that while individual awareness of GM foods is relatively high, there is a perception that community awareness is low. Sociodemographic factors play a significant role in shaping public awareness and perceptions of GM foods. Recommendations: This includes government should actively educate the public on the ecological and health benefits of GM foods and address any safety concerns; Implement strict border controls and food labeling for GM products to protect consumer rights and preferences for organic foods, provide sufficient technical and financial assistance to farmers who participate in organic seed programs to enhance national food security. Significant Statement: This study highlights the importance of public education on GM foods and underscores the need for government intervention to ensure informed consumer choices and support for sustainable agricultural practices.

Abstract: Lipodystrophies (LDs) are rare, complex disorders of the adipose tissue characterized by selective fat loss, altered adipokines profile and metabolic impairment. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are class III NAD+-dependent histone-deacetylases linked to fat metabolism. SIRT1 plays a critical role in metabolic health by deacetylating target proteins in tissues including liver, muscle and adipose tissue. Circulating SIRT1 levels have been found to be reduced in obesity while increased in anorexia nervosa and in patients experiencing weight loss. We evaluated circulating SIRT1 levels in relation to fat amount in 32 lipodystrophic patients affected by congenital or acquired LDs compared to non-LD subjects (24 with anorexia nervosa, 22 normal weight and 24 with obe-sity). SIRT1 serum levels were higher in LDs as compared with normal weight subjects (mean ± SEM: 4.17 ± 0.48 vs. 2.59 ± 0.20 ng/mL) or subjects with obesity (1.7 ± 0.39 ng/mL), whereas they were close to those measured in anorexia nervosa (3.44 ± 0.46 ng/mL). Our findings show that within the LD group there was no relationship between SIRT1 levels and the amount of body fat. The mechanisms responsible for secretion and regulation of SIRT1 in LD deserve further investi-gation.

The distribution of zakat, which is still carried out directly through mosques or zakat amil bodies, can hinder the payment process due to inaccurate calculations and difficulties in finding zakat amil institutions. In the digital era, information technology is very important in the management of zakat, alms, and infaq. Therefore, a zakat information management system was created. The e-Zakat program, developed using the waterfall method, plays an important role in five main aspects of zakat management: muzaki and mustahiq data collection, zakat collection, zakat distribution, mustahiq development, and reporting. The use of information technology in this program is expected to increase efficiency, accountability, transparency, as well as the reach of zakat and muzaki involvement.

This study examines the aggregate consumption function of Saudi Arabia from 2000 to 2022, focusing on identifying key determinants of household consumption and evaluating the impacts of disposable income, household wealth, government expenditure, interest rates, and oil revenues. The research uses advanced econometric methods, including the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Johansen cointegration test, to analyze the relationships among these variables. The findings reveal that disposable income, household wealth, and government expenditure significantly and positively influence consumption, whereas interest rates show a negative correlation. Oil revenues also play a critical role, reflecting the country's economic reliance on oil. The study highlights the necessity for economic diversification to reduce the impact of oil price volatility on household income and consumption stability. The results offer crucial insights for policymakers, emphasizing the need for strategies that enhance household income and wealth, maintain robust public sector spending, and effectively manage interest rates. These findings also support the importance of consistent and predictable income sources for sustaining consumption. Additionally, this study suggests directions for future research, including developing sophisticated forecasting models to predict consumption trends and exploring other influencing factors such as demographic shifts and technological progress.

The importance of conflict analysis and safety considerations during work zone intervals at signalized intersections cannot be overstated, as these periods pose unique challenges and safety risks for both motorists and pedestrians. Work zones introduce temporary changes to traffic patterns, lane configurations, and signal timings, which can disrupt the flow of traffic and increase the likelihood of conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians. By conducting comprehensive conflict analysis, it is possible to identify potential conflict points, such as merging areas, pedestrian crossings, and lane transitions, and implement targeted safety measures to mitigate risks. Additionally, considering safety considerations during work zone intervals is paramount to safeguarding the well-being of road users and minimizing the occurrence of conflicts or collisions. Measures such as enhanced signage, temporary traffic control devices, and increased enforcement efforts can help promote compliance with traffic regulations and ensure the safe passage of vehicles and pedestrians through work zones. This study investigates the dynamics of traffic behavior and safety implications within work zones at signalized intersections, aiming to address key challenges and enhance intersection management strategies. Through comprehensive analysis, varying frequencies of Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) conflicts were observed across different movement directions, with significant occurrences identified in specific phases of the traffic signal cycle. Specifically, 69 V2V conflicts in phase #1, 181 in phase #2, 31 in phase #3, 207 in phase #4, 1 in phase #5, 274 in phase #6, 93 in phase #7, and 186 in phase #8 were recorded. Furthermore, the examination of Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P) conflicts underscored the importance of prioritizing pedestrian safety, with notable occurrences observed in phases associated with pedestrian crossing movements. Meanwhile, despite the closure of left-turn movements, instances of red light running persisted, with 69 red light running events in phase #1, 181 in phase #2, 31 in phase #3, 207 in phase #4, 1 in phase #5, 274 in phase #6, 93 in phase #7, and 186 in phase #8.To mitigate these safety concerns during work zone intervals, proactive measures are essential. Strategies include improving communication through clear signage and advanced warning systems, enhancing enforcement efforts with red light cameras and increased police presence, and investing in infrastructure improvements such as temporary pedestrian facilities. Integration of real-time data from sensors, particularly LiDAR technology, offers significant advantages in detecting conflicts and red light runners during work zone intervals. LiDAR's precise, real-time data on vehicle and pedestrian movements, combined with its 360-degree coverage and high spatial resolution, facilitates accurate detection and tracking of potential conflict scenarios, contributing to enhanced intersection safety and traffic management efficiency. This study endeavored to conduct a traffic safety analysis during work zone intervals at a signalized intersection in Baltimore City, known for its high rate of traffic crashes, utilizing LiDAR sensor technology.

The bioindicator potential of seagrass ecosystems in coastal trace metal monitoring is low for tropical island ecosystems. This study evaluated the bioindicator potential of six seagrass species exposed to anthropogenic trace metal pollution in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) of India. Sediment and seagrass biomass, samples were analyzed for trace metals (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) from four locations of ANI exposed to anthropogenic contamination. Geo accumulation Index values indicated moderate trace metal contamination in seagrass sediment. Seagrass trace metal accumulation from sediment was both species-specific and location- specific for ANI. Small seagrass species such as H. ovalis, H. beccarii and H. uninervis accumulated the maximum concentration of six trace metals (Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) in their tissues compared to big seagrass species like T. hemprichii and E. acoroides of ANI. This study indicates leaves of small seagrass and roots of big seagrass species can serve as short- and long-term bioindicators respectively, of coastal trace metal contamination in tropical islands of ANI.

This literature review offers a comprehensive analysis of the design and optimization of microstrip patch antennas for wireless communication systems, drawing insights from a variety of research papers. It examines diverse approaches aimed at enhancing antenna performance and functionality. Key topics explored include optimization of resonant frequency, design of antenna arrays, and bandwidth enhancement. Noteworthy optimization techniques, such as genetic algorithms and artificial neural networks, are discussed, highlighting their effectiveness in achieving superior antenna performance. Application-specific solutions tailored to areas such as military communication and RFID systems are emphasized. The review underscores the significant role played by optimization techniques in achieving desired performance metrics and identifies future research directions, including multi-objective optimization, investigation of robustness and reliability, and integration with advanced technologies. Overall, this literature review provides valuable insights into the state-of-the-art in microstrip patch antenna design and optimization, guiding future research endeavors in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.

This study focuses on examining various approaches for Tensor Decompositions (TDs) and their potential applications in satellite imaging (SI) and deep learning (DL). The research highlights how these decompositions can contribute to the advancement of SI and DL, providing valuable insights for future utilization of TDs in research. It explores how these techniques contribute to the advancement of SI and DL methods, providing insights into their potential applications and suggesting future research directions. The study aims to enhance the use of TDs techniques to further advance research efforts in these fields. More importantly, the current investigation offers a thorough analysis of the potential advantages and reasons for employing TDs techniques in different domains, including satellite imaging and deep learning. The aim is to enhance research outcomes by utilizing TDs. The review also identifies unresolved issues and proposes future directions for further investigation in this field. Fundamentally, these proposed open problems will open new grounds to the research community to articulate, innovate, and provide more real-life applications to improve the current state of the art by delving into a wider vision for a higher-level performance of both satellite imaging (SI) and deep learning (DL). Looking at the bigger scenario, this also suggests that TDs could be potentially employed to revolutionize existing machine learning technologies as well as the current space AI industry.

The escalating demand for multifunctional and advanced materials for growing industries has turned scientific exploration to graphene-based hybrid filler polymer composites. The introduction of graphene with other fillers into polymer matrices results in astonishing properties and thus has gained significant attention in recent years. This study addresses the significance of graphene-based hybrid filler polymer composites in progressive materials science and engineering. The paper encloses some traditional and current preparation techniques employed in the fabrication of composites and a comprehensive review of successfully prepared graphene hybrid polymer composites with enhanced mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties reported in published research. The role of different factors, e.g., filler type, aspect ratios, filler-matrix compatibility, dispersion effects, homogeneity, filler orientation through polymer matrices, and curing conditions, are summarized. Finally, the applications in heavy industries, e.g., aerospace, electronics, energy storage, and automotive sectors were also analyzed. We hope this study will serve as a practical resource for new researchers and practitioners to understand and harness the full potential of these composites in various scientific and industrial fields.

The use of new assistive technologies in general, and Socially Assistive Robots (SAR) in particular is becoming increasingly common for supporting people’s health and well-being. However, it still faces many issues regarding long-term adherence, acceptability and utility. Most of these issues are due to design processes that insufficiently take into account the needs, preferences and values of intended users. Other issues are related to the currently very limited amount of long-term evaluations, performed in real world settings, for SAR. This study presents the results of two regional projects that consider as a starting hypothesis that the assessment in controlled environments and/or with short exposures may not be enough in the design of a SAR deployed in a retirement home and the necessity of designing for and with users. Thus, the proposed methodology has focused in use cases definitions that follow a human-centred and participatory design approach. The main goals have been facilitating system acceptance and attachment by involving stakeholders in the robots design and evaluation, overcoming usage barriers and considering user’s needs integration. The implementation of the first use case deployed and the two-phase pilot test performed in the retirement home are presented. In particular, a detailed description of the interface re-design process based on improving a basic prototype with users’ feedback and recommendations is presented together with main results of a formal evaluation that has highlighted the impact of changes and improvements addressed in the first redesign loop of the system.

Introduction: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. It is a very aggressive and heterogeneous tumor. GC does not cause symptoms, so it is often diagnosed in an advanced stage and associated with poor prognosis. Despite new treatment options, it still remains a therapeutic problem. An important element determining the method of treatment of locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) is the assessment of lymph node metastases in preoperative and postoperative imaging and/or histopathological examination.Aim: The assessment of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) in histopathological examination in patients with LAGC after gastrectomy. The groups of patients were divided into patients who received preoperative chemotherapy, patients without preoperative chemotherapy, and all patients. Additionally, we assessed the correlation between the presence of LVI and the number of lymph nodes collected during gastrectomy.Material and method: We collected patients with histologically confirmed GC after gastrectomy. The collected samples were divided into three subgroups: patients with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), patients without NAC, and all patients. Histopathological examination assessed the presence of LVI infiltration. We then assessed the correlation between the presence of LVI and the presence of lymph node metastasis in GC. Additionally, we assessed the correlation between LVI and the number of lymph nodes evaluated in patients in each group. The statistical analyses were performed using Statistica v13.3 and Microsoft Excel 2021. The significance limit was set at p<0.05.Results:The presence of LVI strongly correlated with node involvement, and the result was statistically significant in all patients and the group of patients treated with NAC. The difference was not statistically significant in the group not treated by NAC. Additionally, we did not observe a correlation between the presence of LVI and the number of metastatic lymph nodes in GC.Summary and Conclusions: The presence of LVI in a patient with GC indicates a high probability of lymph node metastasis, which should translate into therapeutic procedures. Assessment of LVI may help identify potential patients with lymph node metastases, particularly in patients undergoing endoscopic resection without planned lymphadenectomy. It is advisable to expand research on a larger scale in order to establish clear standards in this area.

Objectives. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the ability to visualize the results of the Scilit platform's bibliometric data analysis on the topic "AI & Machine Learning" to identify publications reflecting specific issues of the topic. Data source. Bibliometric records exported from the Scilit platform on the topic "AI & Machine Learning" for the years 2021–2023 were used. For each year, 6,000 records were downloaded in CSV and RIS format. Programs and utilities used. VOSviewer, Scimago Graphica, Inkscape, FP-growth utility, GSDMM algorithm. Used services: Elicit, QuillBot, Litmaps. Results. It has been shown that bibliometric data from the open access abstract database Scilit can serve as a quality alternative to subscription-only databases. Data exported from the Scilit platform require preprocessing to make them available in a format that can be processed by programs such as VOSviewer and Scimago Graphica. The use of GSDMM and FP-growth algorithms is effective for structuring bibliometric data for further visualization. The Scimago Graphica software provides wide possibilities for building compound diagrams, in particular, for representing the network of keywords in such important coordinates for bibliometric analysis as average year of publication and average normalized citation, as well as for building an alluvial diagram of co-occurrence of more than two keywords. The possibility of using such services as elicit.com, quillbot.com and app.litmaps.com to accelerate the selection of publications on the topic under study is shown.

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen tree that occupies 19% of the woody crop area and is cultivated in 67 countries on five continents. The largest olive production is concentrated in the Mediterranean basin, where the olive tree has had an enormous economic, cultural and environmental impact since the 7th century BC. In the Mediterranean region, salinity stands out as one of the main abiotic stress factors significantly affecting agricultural production. Moreover, climate change is expected to lead to increased salinisation in this region, threatening olive productivity. Salt stress causes combined damage by osmotic stress and ionic toxicity, restricting olive growth and interfering with multiple metabolic processes. A large variability in salinity tolerance among olive cultivars has been described. This paper aims to synthesize information from the published literature on olive adaptations to salt stress and its importance in salinity tolerance. The morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of olive tolerance to salt stress are reviewed.

Understanding mechanisms of ageing remains a complex challenge for biogerontologists, but recent adaptations of evolutionary ageing theories offer a compelling lens in which to view both age-related molecular and physiological deterioration. Ageing is commonly associated with a progressive loss of biochemical processes and degeneration of molecular material, however, the mechanisms of diminishing function are not simply a result of aberrant expression of these pathways. Natural selection pressures are at their highest in youthful periods to select genes advantageous to maximising reproductive capacity. After sexual maturation, selective pressure diminishes, subjecting individuals to maladaptive pleiotropic gene function once beneficial for developmental growth, but pathogenic later in life. Due to this selective ‘shadowing’ in ageing, mechanisms to counter hyperfunctional genes are unlikely to evolve within a given species. These genetic ‘run-on’ programmes are not dysfunctional per se and, in fact, remain highly robust. Thus, interventions capable of optimising gene function during the ageing process represent as attractive therapeutic modalities. Caenorhabditis elegans offers a unique model to explore high-throughput screening of interventions to combat hyperfunctional pathways involved in ageing. However, the majority of research to date employ whole-life vs late-life pathway manipulation of developmental/growth-related systems to claim ageing attenuation, despite significant impairments in early-life fitness and discordance with healthspan. Here, we discuss data supporting hyperfunctional changes at a global molecular and functional level in C. elegans, and how classical lifespan-extension mutants alter these dynamics. We later discuss the relevance of such mutant models for exploring mechanisms of ageing, highlighting that post-reproductive gene manipulation represents a far more translatable approach for C. elegans research not routed within pleiotropic constraints. More so, lifespan has become a routine readout for quantifying ‘ageing’, however, we make the argument that a compression of gerospan vs lifespan extension is a more meaningful goal for anti-ageing regimes with current knowledge. Similarly, mechanisms governing lifespan are distinct from those regulating health, and slowing senescent pathology accumulation appears more applicable for the abstraction to human ageing.

The aim of this study is to investigate and determine the key factors guiding customer attitudes towards social media influencers, and on that base to explore their effects on purchase intentions towards advertised products or services. A total of 376 fulfilled questionnaires from an online survey were analysed. The main characteristics of digital influencers’ behaviour, affecting consumer perceptions have been systematized and categorized through a combination of both traditional and advanced data analysis methods. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), machine learning and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods were selected to uncover the hidden dependencies between variables from the perspective of social media users. The developed models elucidate the underlying relationships that shape the acceptance mechanism of influencers’ messages. The results obtained provide specific recommendations for stakeholders across the social media marketing value chain. Marketers can make informed decisions and optimize influencer marketing strategies to enhance user experience and increase conversion rates. Working collaboratively, marketers and influencers can create impactful and successful marketing campaigns that resonate with the target audience and drive meaningful results. Customers benefit from more tailored and engaging influencer content that aligns with their interests and preferences, fostering a stronger connection with brands and potentially affecting their purchase decisions. As the perception of customer satisfaction is individual and evolving process, stakeholders should organize regular evaluations of influencer marketing data and explore the possibilities to ensure continuous improvement of this e-marketing channel.

Sustainable and Responsible Design (SRD) harnesses design’s potential to address eco-social problems and in doing so challenge the status quo of design education by reframing the social and ecological consequences, boundaries and agencies of design. This critical and transdisciplinary approach frays the edges of traditional design disciplines with embedded and reflexive modes of learning. We describe characteristics of SRD education and present theories of learning to empower students in this complex terrain. The learning associated with SRD education is ecologically engaged, participative, critical, expansive and designerly. We recount case studies of our own experiences advancing sustainable and responsible undergraduate design education in the UK. We identify path constraints such as disciplinary fragility, appropriation, and power dynamics in the design school. The push for a revision of priorities generates tensions where there is often greenwashing rhetoric of sustainability and inclusivity. We describe strategies and tactics to address these tensions. We highlight the agency we have as educators and designers and argue that design education can only meaningfully participate in response to the challenges presented by climate change, other types of ecocide, and social problems when educators make substantive commitments to supporting sustainability literacies and design approaches that serve the interests of diverse stakeholders.

The breast holds significant importance in women's lactation process. The breast has diverse tissues such as glandular, Cooper’s ligament, lactiferous ducts, adipose, muscles, and skin with various mechanical properties. Most soft tissues exhibit nonlinear, viscoelastic, and anisotropic mechanical behaviour. Stiffness is one of the commonly used mechanical properties for measuring mechanical behaviour in soft tissues. However, this is typically used in simplifying cases where analysis is limited to within the linear elastic region. Young’s modulus is the prevailing measure for quantifying stiffness in tissues. This systematic review examines commonly used techniques for mechanically characterising breast soft tissues to close the gap in the literature. Additionally, this systematic review summarises the mechanical behaviour of the breast tissues available in the literature and highlights the uncovered areas to understand the mechanical behaviour of breast tissues fully. These include a) more mechanical behaviour studies, allowing more accurate modelling for other applications, b) Viscoelastic analysis studies, and c) mechanical analysis on other breast tissues, such as the lactiferous duct, also known as the milk duct. The data obtained in the review can be used as inputs in computational models to analyse the behaviour of the breast tissues.

This work is concerned with studying the change of some Optical and Electrical Properties of Ba_xFe_(1-x)TiO₄ thin films due to the change of the nano crystal size. Simple theoretical explanation based on the string theory was developed. The empirical results obtained indicated that the absorption coefficient, electrical conductivity, and the magnetic permeability increase upon decreasing the nano crystal size. However, the transmission coefficient, and the refractive index increase upon increasing the nano crystal size. All these changes are explained using a simple string model with the aid of Newton's laws. The capability of the string theory to explain this nano quantum behavior comes from the fact that the string theory recognize both the particle and the wave nature of the nano system. This is similar of course to the quantum approach which is based mainly on the dual wave particle nature of atomic systems and entities.

Background: Autonomic balance measurement (ABM) is a valuable tool in clinical practice for assessing the functioning of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary bodily functions. Here we summarize the current understanding of the utility of autonomic balance measurement in clinical practice. Methods: A narrative review of relevant literature was conducted, focusing on studies investigating the use of autonomic balance measures in various clinical settings. Results: ABM holds potential benefits in clinical practice, including aiding in diagnosing autonomic dysfunction, monitoring treatment efficacy, and predicting potential health complications. ABM can be crucial for diagnosing various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases (Heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension), neurological disorders (Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetic neuropathy), in sports medicine athletes can undergo ABM to optimize training regimens, enhance performance, assessing the impact of training stress, preventing overtraining, and promoting overall well-being and probably to assess potential health risks, in metabolic syndromes ABM can aid in the early detection of autonomic neuropathy, a diabetes-related complication, allowing for timely intervention and better management of the disease, and psychiatric disorders (Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder). In addition, ABM can be helpful in monitoring of treatment efficacy, by tracking changes in autonomic balance, clinicians can assess if treatments for conditions impacting the autonomic nervous system are effective. ABM can also be helpful in predicting outcomes by facilitating early recognition of future health complications in certain populations. However, limitations exist, including non-specificity, variability in measurements, and limited evidence for routine use in specific clinical settings. Conclusion: Incorporating autonomic balance measurement into routine clinical assessments provides a more comprehensive understanding of a patient's health. It complements traditional diagnostic methods, offering additional insights into the body's regulatory mechanisms. While autonomic balance measurement offers potential benefits, careful interpretation and consideration of its limitations are crucial for its effective use in clinical practice. ABM remains a valuable and versatile tool in clinical practice for a deeper understanding of the autonomic nervous system, enabling early detection, targeted interventions, and improved management of various medical conditions across different specialties.

Background: Tafamidis reduces cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM), yet availability and access to therapy vary. Objective: To determine how availability and access to tafamidis impact time-to-diagnosis, time-to-therapy, and cardiovascular outcomes in ATTR-CM. Methods and Results: 91 consecutive ATTR-CM patients diagnosed between June 2019 and June 2021 were evaluated for tafamidis. Access to therapy was regulated by compassionate use [n(CU)=42] prior to, and insurance [n(IA)=49] after regulatory approval. Tafamidis was started in 37/42 (88.1%), and 39/49 (79.6%) patients, respectively. At diagnosis, ATTR-CM disease stage (≤stage 2: 88.2% vs. 90.9%, p= 0.92) was similar between groups. Timely access (after tafamidis approval) reduced time-from-first-presentation-to-diagnosis from median 6.2 (IQR: 1.3-28.9) to 2.4 (0.7-21.7) months, and from-first-presentation-to-therapy from 24.4 (10.7-46.8) to 11.8 (6.4-32.4) months. While RV function significantly worsened between diagnosis and therapy initiation in CU patients diagnosed before tafamidis approval (S’-velocity 10.0±2.2 to 9.2±2.2cm/s; p=0.018; TAPSE 17.3±4.7 to 15.7±3.9mm, p=0.008), it remained unchanged in IA patients (S’-velocity 9.6±2.6 to 9.4±2.3cm/s; p=0.83; TAPSE 15.6±4.2 to 16.3±3.1mm, p=0.45). After a median follow-up of 42.3 and 24.9 months in CU and IA patients, respectively, timely availability was associated with a reduction of annual heart failure hospitalizations (0.40 vs. 0.16 per patient, p<0.001) and improved MACE-free survival (HR=0.51; 95%CI: 0.26-1.00; p=0.051). Timely diagnosis (<12-months) prolonged MACE-free survival (HR=0.424; 95%CI:0.22-0.81; p=0.004), and reduced HFH (HR=0.40; 95%CI:0.19-0.81); p=0.011) and all-cause mortality (HR=0.29; 95%CI:0.11-0.74); p=0.009). Conclusions: Availability of tafamidis improves diagnostic efficacy in ATTR-CM patients. Timely diagnosis and initiation of therapy reduces adverse cardiovascular events.

The inherited ‘EIA’ process at Brexit is based on a ‘Project’ period from Inception tothe start of construction works. The ‘Incompleteness’ of the process covers andidentifies stages that will impact on the environmental cycle: construction period,operational life, de-commissioning and a return to acceptable environmental footprint.A master environment structure-plan framework is required to commence with theupgrading of the complete ‘EIA’ process, embracing separate limbs for the UK’spriority environmental targets for climate change, and other major adverse effectswhich result in serious ‘harm’ to the UK environment. The identification of the processfor ‘incompleteness’ requires effective sustainability, and inclusion of effectivemanagement tools, for the essential ‘monitoring/control/recording’ proceduresthroughout the project life and the natural environmental cycle. This will allow theopportunity for a new approach to a structured ‘Suite of EIAR Directives’, to enable a‘EIAR’ regime that ‘will remain fit and proper for UK purpose’.

In our recent publications, based on strong and electroweak interactions, we have developed a completely new formula for estimating nuclear binding energy. With reference to currently believed Semi Empirical Mass Formula (SEMF), we call our formula as ‘Strong and Electroweak Mass Formula’ (SEWMF). Our formula constitutes 4 simple terms and only one energy coefficient of magnitude 10.1 MeV. First term is a volume term, second term seems to be a representation of free nucleons associated with electroweak interaction, third term is a radial term and fourth one is an asymmetry term about the mean stable mass number. In this paper, we make an attempt to understand and estimate the maximum binding energy associated with any mass number. It can be expressed as, for A > 4, $\left(BE\right)_A\cong \left[A-0.000935A^2-A^{1/3}-A^{-1/2}\right]$ MeV. We are working on refining the 4^th term with even-odd corrections, shell corrections and other microscopic corrections. Proceeding further, stable mass numbers and super heavy mass numbers can be understood with a relation of the form, $\left[\textrm{RoundOff}\left(\left(Z+2.9464\right)^{1.2}-1.7165\right)\right]\pm\left[0,1\right]\pm\left(2n\right)$ where $n \cong 0,1,2$. It needs a review with respect to even-odd proton numbers and other microscopic corrections.Very interesting point to be noted is that based on the concept of “binding energy per nucleon”, the most complicated Avogadro number and Unified atomic mass unit can be estimated in a unified approach.

The global textile sector, pivotal to economic development, significantly contributes to environmental degradation, prompting a shift towards sustainable raw material sources. Embracing circular economy principles, this industry is exploring the valorization of agricultural by-products. This study introduces an innovative approach to repurposing mango waste into valuable textile fibers, a byproduct of the fruit processing industry, predominantly generated during juice and jam production. The focus is on the lignocellulosic constituents of mango waste, specifically the peel, seed, and fibrous material, traditionally considered as refuse. Previous research has predominantly utilized mango peel in pectin extraction for food applications, whereas the potential of seed and fibrous content remains underexplored. This investigation endeavors to transform these fibrous by-products into high-value materials suitable for textile manufacturing. The process involved washing, drying, and comprehensive physicochemical characterization of mango fibers, emphasizing lignin quantification, revealing a composition of 12.2% lignin. An experimental design was employed to elucidate the impact of variables such as liquid-to-solid ratio, reaction duration, and sodium hydroxide concentration on lignin dissolution through alkaline hydrolysis. Optimal conditions—10% NaOH concentration, 30 mL/g liquid-to-solid ratio over six hours—achieved an 83% reduction in lignin content. The resulting fibers exhibited properties akin to conventional natural fibers, including a favorable aspect ratio indicative of their suitability for textile applications. A subsequent softening process using propylene glycol enhanced the fibers' spinability, producing a durable, textured fabric ideal for eco-conscious fashion applications, including bags, footwear, and accessories. This research demonstrates the feasibility of converting mango waste into a textile-worthy material and underscores the importance of waste revalorization in promoting sustainability within the circular economy framework.

The paper presents the findings of research on companies in the early stage of development based on the concept of ensuring their sustainability. The starting point is attributes shaping a sustainable model of start-ups. A solution has been proposed and examined that identifies the factors dynamising a business model, which give the company the ability to make fast changes in the configuration of the business model, and that applies stabilizing factors based on the concept of the Triple Bottom Line. The research problem is a response to the phenomena of the bankruptcy of many start-ups that cannot find a way to survive in the long term. The business models of companies in the early stage of development should be designed taking into account the possibility of their dynamic and iterative changes when the earlier assumptions do not work when implemented in practice. A cognitive gap has been observed as the relevant literature does not propose a systemic solution to the problem of instability of the startups viewed from the perspective of the business model concept. The research problem, therefore, is to identify potential new methods to ensure the sustainability of young companies trying to combine aspects dynamising changes in business models, taking into account economic, environmental and social aspects. The findings of research on companies in the early stage of development show that when the methods of increasing the flexibility of the business model are applied and attention is drawn to environmental and social activities and a strong emphasis is put on financial performance, reflecting the expectations of shareholders, the concept of ensuring the sustainability of young companies from the point of view of sustainable business model attributes emerges.

Starting from the model of a slow-rolling missile with six degrees of freedom (6 DOF) in the body frame, a 6 DOF model in the Resal frame is obtained, which is used to linearize the coupled commanded motion. Based on the linearized model, we obtain the structural scheme of the commanded object and define the quality parameters. The obtained parameters have a complex representation (with real and imaginary parts) due to the coupling between longitudinal channels. Then, the kinematic guidance equations, the seeker equations and the actuator specific to the slow-rolling single-channel missile are defined using a switching function. The guidance kinematic equations, the seeker equations and the actuator model are linearized in the Resal frame, and the structural diagram of the homing missile is constructed. Starting from this, the characteristic polynomial having complex coefficients is determined and then analyzed with the Frank-Wall stability criterion. Based on the analysis, a stability range is determined for the navigation constant and a minimum and possibly a maximum limit for the time to hit the target is obtained. The stability range defined for the navigation constant on the linear model is finally validated on the nonlinear model in the body frame.

With the Paris Agreement, countries are obliged to report greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduc-tions, which will ensure that the global temperature increase is maintained well below 2C. The Parties will report their Nationally Determined Contributions in terms of plans and progress to-wards these targets during the postponed COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021. These commit-ments however do not take significant portions of the consumption related emissions related to countries imports in to account. Similarly, the majority of companies that report their emissions to CDP also do not account for their embodied value-chain related emissions. Municipalities, on the path towards carbon neutrality in accordance with the methods outlined by C40, also do not in-clude imported and embodied CO2e in their total emission tallies. So, who is responsible for these emissions - the producer or the consumer? How can we ensure that the NDC's, municipalities and companies reduction targets share the responsibility of the emissions in the value-chain thus en-suring that targets and plans become, sustainable, climate fair, and just in global value chains? Today the responsibility lays with the producer, which is not sustainable. We have the outline for the tools needed to quantify and transparently share the responsibility between producers and consumers at corporate, municipal and national level based on an improved understanding of the attendant sources, causes, flows and risks og GHG emissions globally. Hybrid LCA/EEIO models can for example be further developed. This will, in the end, enable everyday consumption to support a more sustainable, green and low carbon transition of our economy.

The process of sexual reproduction in eukaryotes starts when gametes from two different sexes encounter each other. Paramecium, a unicellular eukaryote, undergoes conjugation and uses a gametic nucleus to enter the sexual reproductive process. The molecules responsible for recognizing mating partners, hypothetically called mating-type substances, are still unclear. We have identified an O3-type mating substance polypeptide and its gene sequence using protein chemistry, molecular genetics, immunofluorescence, RNA inter-ference, and microinjection. The O3-type substance is a polypeptide found in the ciliary membranes, located from the head to the ventral side of cells. The O3-type substance has a kinase-like domain in its N-terminal part located outside the cell and four EF-hand motifs that bind calcium ions in its C-terminal part located inside the cell. RNA interference and immunofluorescence revealed that this polypeptide positively correlated with the expression of mating reactivity. Microinjection of an expression vector incorporating the O3Pc-MSP gene induced additional O3 mating type in the recipient clones of different mating types or syngen. Phylogenetic analysis indicates this gene is widely present in eukaryotes and exhibits high homology among closely related species. The O3Pc-MSP gene had nine silent mutations compared to the complementary mating type of the E3 homologue gene.

Smart manufacturing encompasses a category of manufacturing that employs computer-integrated capabilities and technologies to enhance supply chain optimization, production efficiency, and recyclability. Yet limited studies have been conducted to optimize these prospects from the perspective of low resource countries where such innovative studies have not been adequately explored. This paper aims to examine the implications of smart manufacturing practices (Smart Procurement, Smart Supply Chain, Smart Production Planning and Control, Automation and Industrial Robot, and Supply Chain Configuration) on pro-environmental behaviour and develop a baseline moderated mediation model to explain the relationship between smart manufacturing and pro-environmental behaviour with a role of green dynamic capability, and environmental orientation. This study is anchored on quantitative research approach, deductive reasoning, and explanatory design. Cross – sectional survey data have been obtained from 382 manufacturing companies in Ghana. Our hypotheses have been tested using Structural Equation Modelling and SMART-PLS version 3.8.9. The study has revealed that smart manufacturing practices significantly and positively relate to pro-environmental behaviour. Moreover, green dynamic capability and environmental orientation moderate the relationship between smart manufacturing and pro-environmental behaviour. The implications of the study include the emergence of a baseline model to guide policymakers, practitioners, and academicians to explain the relationship between smart manufacturing and sustainable manufacturing in the context of developing countries. Again, the social implication of the study includes the realisation of decent job and economic growth, responsible consumption and production as well as actions taken to combat climate change.

This paper presents a biologically inspired flocking-based aggregation behaviour of a swarm of mobile robots. Aggregation behaviour is essential to many swarm systems, such as swarm robotics systems, in order to accomplish complex tasks that are impossible for a single agent. We developed a robot controller using Reynolds’ flocking rules to coordinate the movements of multiple e-puck robots during the aggregation process. To improve aggregation behaviour among these robots and address the scalability issues in current flocking-based aggregation approaches, we used a K-means algorithm to identify clusters of agents. Using the developed controller, we simulated the aggregation behaviour among the swarm of robots. Five experiments were conducted using Webots simulation software. The performance of the developed system was evaluated under a variety of environments and conditions, such as various obstacles, agent failure, different numbers of robots and arena sizes. The results of the experiments demonstrated that the proposed algorithm is robust and scalable. Moreover, we compared our proposed algorithm with another implementation of the flocking-based self-organizing aggregation behaviour based on Reynolds’ rules in a swarm of e-puck robots. Our algorithms outperformed this method in terms of cohesion performance and aggregation completion time.

In our recent publications pertaining to 4G model of final unification and based on strong and electroweak interactions, we have developed a completely new formula for estimating nuclear binding energy. With reference to currently believed Semi Empirical Mass Formula (SEMF), we call our formula as ‘Strong and Electroweak Mass Formula’ (SEWMF). Our formula constitutes 4 simple terms and only one energy coefficient of magnitude 10.1 MeV. First term is a volume term, second term seems to be a representation of free nucleons associated with electroweak interaction, third term is a radial term and fourth one is an asymmetry term about the mean stable mass number. Considering this kind of approach, nuclear structure can be understood in terms of strong and weak interactions and cold nuclear fusion like complicated concepts can be understood in a theoretical approach positively. In this paper, by considering the accountability of we are making an attempt to improve the applicability and effectiveness of SEWMF. Number 0.00125 being a workable electroweak coefficient for Z=6 to 132 and A=2Z to 3.5Z, number of free nucleons assumed to be associated with electroweak interaction can be expressed as Improved asymmetry term can be expressed as, where represents the light house like stable mass number. With reference to old version, our improved binding energy formula can be expressed as, We are working on its possible modification for mass numbers less than the stable mass numbers. Following this approach, it is possible to show that nuclear binding energy scheme is associated with strong and weak interactions and is practically independent of Coulombic repulsions. Proceeding further, currently believed cold nuclear fusion assumed be associated with hydrated metals can be understood and can be confirmed with strong and weak interactions independent of coulombic repulsions. We are very confident to say that our approach will certainly motivate modern science community in this new direction.

Well-exposed fluvio-deltaic Surma Group successions of the northeastern Surma Basin provide a direct analogue to its equivalent subsurface successions—the main hydrocarbon reservoirs in Bangladesh. The various levels of lateral and vertical heterogeneities lead to changes in the subsurface sandbody distributions and their reservoir qualities across fields. The present study aims to identify the heterogeneities in the fluvio-deltaic Surma Group successions by detailed sedimentological analysis of the Mio-Pliocene-aged Surma Group successions. Eleven lithofacies have been identified and based on the recurring pattern of these facies within the Surma Group, five facies associations have been identified. The facies associations indicate that these deposits originated from diverse depositional settings, ranging from the prodelta to the alluvial to delta plain. As a whole, they represent a progressive shallowing upward succession with two transgressive events in the upper and lower parts of the Surma Group. Five levels of heterogeneities such as prodelta mud (HL-I), tidal heterolithic deposits (HL-II & III), interbedded mud units in delta front (HL-IV), and intercalated mud laminae, drapes (HL-V) have been identified in the fluvio-deltaic Surma Group. The study suggests that the various levels of reservoir heterogeneities are controlled by the occurrence and distribution of various facies associations.

The SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (N protein) is critical to viral replication by undergoing liquid-liquid phase separation to seed the formation of a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex to drive viral genomic RNA (gRNA) translation and in also suppressing both stress granules and processing bodies which is postulated to increase uncoated gRNA availability. The N protein can also form biomolecular condensates with a broad range of host endogenous proteins including RNA binding proteins (RBPs). Amongst these RBPs are proteins that are associated with pathological neuronal and glial cytoplasmic inclusions across several adult-onset neurodegenerative disorders, including TAR DNA binding protein 43 kDa (TDP-43) which forms pathological inclusions in over 95% of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cases. In this study, we demonstrate that the N protein can form biomolecular condensates with TDP-43 and that this is dependant on the N protein C-terminus domain (N-CTD) and the intrinsically disordered C-terminus domain of TDP-43. This process is markedly accelerated in the presence of RNA. In silico modelling suggests that the biomolecular condensate that formed in the presence of RNA is composed of a N protein quadriplex in which the intrinsically disordered TDP-43 C terminus domain is incorporated.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), lacking specific receptors found in other breast cancer subtypes, poses significant treatment challenges due to limited therapeutic options. Therefore, it is necessary to develop novel treatment approaches for TNBC. In the last few decades, many attempts have been reported for alternative tools for TNBC treatment: immunotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, combination therapy, and nanotechnology-based therapy. Among them, combination therapy and nanotechnology-based therapy show the most promise for TNBC treatment. This review outlines recent advancements in these areas, highlighting the efficacy of combination therapy (immunotherapy paired with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiotherapy) in both preclinical and clinical stages and nanotechnology-based therapies utilizing various nanoparticles loaded with anticancer agents, nucleic acids, immunotherapeutics, or CRISPRs in preclinical stages for TNBC treatment.

Abstract: NFinFET transistors with fin channel length 90nm and a planar MOSFET transistor with channel length 180nm and 90nm are presented with characteristic curves at various gate biases. A finalized algorithm with kink effects is effectively responsible for addressing the field effect transistors. The algorithm includes the modified conventional current-voltage formula and a nonlinear heat-associated kink solution which is simplified as a Gaussian form. Three parameters in modified model includes kN (related with channel width, channel length, and gate oxide capacitor, and proportional to the mobility of carriers)Vth(Threshold Voltage), and (the inverse of Early Voltage). Those parameters are determined to minimize the discrepancies between the measured data and the fitting values, but leave kinks located at around (VGS－Vth), which are deliberately eliminated by the Gaussian form because of the agitation of thermal kink effects. The whole fitting is made to be as close as the as-measured IDS-VDS. In the mean time, those determined parameters are physically meaningful after the analysis has been done.

In politics and society, organic farming is widely seen as the ideal way to address the many challenges facing agriculture and food security. In order to examine the extent to which this view is realistic, the impact of organic and conventional farming is compared on the basis of relevant criteria such as land requirements, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, food quality, production and environmental costs, reduced meat consumption, the need for agricultural imports and the global expansion of arable land. Land is considered to be a central factor. Such a comprehensive analysis is necessary to assess the impact of different influencing factors and to provide important suggestions for targeted decision making. Although organic farming has a positive impact on land use in many ways, it quickly reaches its limits. The low yields and high production costs resulting from the limited choice of means of production make organic farming an unsuitable model for the future in a world with limited arable land, a high and growing demand for food, and low incomes for large sections of the population. It can, however, provide significant impetus and contribute important technological knowledge for the further development of agriculture as a whole to meet the complex objectives of sustainability, greenhouse gas mitigation, biodiversity and global food security by incorporating all available technologies. Based on this, a model for responsible, sustainable intensive agriculture is outlined and proposals for an eco-social framework to support this model are put forward.