Significant Findings Research Articles

Systematic exploration of defect-rich 2D nanopetal assembled 3D ZnO nanoflowers for improved photocurrent generation and photocatalytic performance

Zinc Oxide (ZnO) stands as a highly significant metal oxide semiconductor with a large band gap of (3.2 eV), showcasing multifaceted properties. Significant findings of this study, designate the successful fabrication of 3D nanoflowers (NFs) with a specialized ZnO nanoarchitecture through a facile polyol process, considered by a notable presence of defect sites, as a photocatalyst for the deterioration of Rhodamine B (RhB). All ZnO NFs display increased absorption and a distinctive shift towards longer wavelengths, indicating a red shift phenomenon. Raman scattering, photoluminescence (PL), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electron spin resonance (EPR) unveiled that, the ZnO/24 hr, exhibited a notable abundance of defect states. The Brauner–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis shows surface area of 55.14 m2g−1 for ZnO/24 hr resulted in a subsequent augmentation of the concentration of surface defects potentially enhancing the RhB photodegradation efficiency of 98%, surpassing the performance of other ZnO NFs samples, with a kinetic rate of 0.0638 min–1 under sunlight irradiation and better photocurrent response that improves the photogenerated separation of charge carriers. Hence, the findings from this investigation will offer novel perspectives for enhancing the photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical attributes of ZnO NFs grown over different durations.

Does the pandemic disrupt the livelihoods of marine fishermen? Evidence from Kerala during the pre- and post-lockdown periods of Covid-19

Purpose This paper aims to determine the implications of Covid-19 on the livelihood of marine fishermen. It gives a concrete picture of how vulnerable communities like marine fishermen are affected due to the lockdown policies. The paper examines these communities' present status and the extent of vulnerability during the post-Covid period.Design/methodology/approach The study uses an exploratory research design to find the solution to the research problem. 298 samples were collected and analysed within a sustainable livelihood theoretical framework. The scope of the study is limited to marine fishermen in Kerala, residing in six districts out of the nine coastal districts. The impact of the lockdown on income was analysed using paired t-test and results linked with the theory.Findings The study has done an empirical analysis for three periods: before lockdown, lockdown and after lockdown, to identify the impact of lockdown on marine fishermen. The study's significant findings are that these fishermen's livelihood is at risk during the post-lockdown period, and many families are moving into a “debt-trap”.Research limitations/implications Policymakers can develop appropriate policy strategies to enhance the livelihood assets of vulnerable communities to include them in a sustainable framework.Originality/value Only a few studies are highlighting the impact of Covid-19 on vulnerable communities in India. The effects of climate change on the marine ecosystem are already endangering marine fisher folks' livelihoods. In this light, it is vital to study the extent of the impact of income shock on the livelihood assets of marine fishermen due to the lockdown policy implemented in the State to prevent the spread of Covid-19.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-03-2023-0192

Synthesis and Evaluation of Biological Activities for a Novel 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroisoquinoline Conjugate with Dipeptide Derivatives: Insights from Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

Peptide synthesis has opened new frontiers in the quest for bioactive molecules with limitless biological applications. This study presents the synthesis of a series of novel isoquinoline dipeptides using advanced spectroscopic techniques for characterization. These compounds were designed with the goal of discovering unexplored biological activities that could contribute to the development of novel pharmaceuticals. We evaluated the biological activities of novel compounds including their antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. The results show promising activity against Escherichia coli and potent antibacterial activity against MTCC 443 and MTCC 1688. Furthermore, these compounds demonstrate strong antifungal activity, outperforming existing standard drugs. Computational binding affinity studies of tetrahydroisoquinoline-conjugated dipeptides against E. coli DNA gyrase displayed significant binding interactions and binding affinity, which are reflected in antimicrobial activities of compounds. Our integrative significant molecular findings from both wet and dry laboratories would help pave a path for the development of antimicrobial therapeutics. The findings suggest that these isoquinoline-conjugated dipeptides could be excellent candidates for drug development, with potential applications in the fight against bacterial and fungal infections. This research represents an exciting step forward in the field of peptide synthesis and its potential to discover novel bioactive molecules with significant implications for human health.

A phenomenological study on women's disaster experience in Türkiye

The number and severity of disasters are rising globally, with negative effects on the physical, social, and economic spheres. According to research, men and women experience disasters differently around the world and have different coping mechanisms. With their backgrounds in disaster relief and high levels of cognitive awareness, women are recognized as strong actors. The issues that women in Turkey face during disasters must be identified in this context and proposals for effective solutions must be developed. Research is scarce, despite the literature's importance accorded to disaster and women's studies. To examine in depth the disaster experiences and lessons learned of women who faced various types of disasters (earthquake, flood, landslide, fire, epidemic, drought, and terrorist attack), nineteen women were interviewed in a virtual setting. A qualitative research method called phenomenological design was employed in the study. With the help of the MAXQDA 2020 qualitative analysis program, the research's data were analyzed. The analyses have shown that women are ill-prepared for disasters, consider disaster early warnings, have difficulty and security issues in accessing basic needs after disasters, have incorrect information about disasters and are willing to participate in disaster education, encounter social problems, and want to participate in decision-making mechanisms, and they acquire correct behavior skills after their first reflex behaviors. In order to ensure gender equality and address issues with integrated disaster management, the administration can follow the significant findings of the research. In study contributes to the field of disaster research by analyzing the experiences of women in disasters, particularly what makes them vulnerable to disasters, the impact of gender roles in disasters, their behaviors and experiences at the time of the disaster, and the actions taken to turn learned lessons into behavior.

KL-6 in adult polymyositis and dermatomyositis patients and its correlation with interstitial lung disease

BackgroundPulmonary involvement is still regarded as a common cause of morbidity in Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis. Interstitial lung disease can result in potentially fatal consequences such as ventilatory failure, secondary pulmonary arterial hypertension, or cor pulmonale. Early diagnosis of interstitial lung disease is hence a top priority in Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis patients. Krebs von den Lungen-6 is a transmembrane mucoprotein that has recently been identified as a promising marker for interstitial lung disease diagnosis and progression. As a result, it is regarded as a powerful predictor of interstitial lung disease severity. Thirty polymyositis/dermatomyocitis patients were enrolled in this study. Thirty age and sex matched healthy individuals were selected as control group. Cutaneous Dermatomyositis Disease Area Severity index(CDASI) was used for evaluation of skin severity, KL6 was measured using Elisa kit, High-resolution computed tomography, pulmonary function tests were made.ResultsSixteen female and 14 male patients had a mean age of 41.64–8.02 and amedian of the disease duration of 4 years. Fifteen patients (50%) had normal readings on High-resolution computed tomography of the chest HRCT chest, while the other half had significant HRCT chest findings. KL-6 concentrations were seen to be higher in Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis patients mainly those with ILD (mean ± SD 38.66 ± 22.98), compared to the control group (Mean ± S 589.04 ± 409) and in patients without ILD (Mean ± SD 86.70 ± 8.99), (p < 0.001). KL-6 serum concentrations were shown to have a significant connection with the HRCT score (r = 0.803, P < 0.001). Forced vital capacity (FVC%) (r = − 0.910, P < 0.001), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1%) (r = − 0.767, P < 0.001), and FEV1/FVC% (r = − 0.228, P = 0.112) were all inversely related to KL-6 concentrations.ConclusionIndividuals with PM and DM with concomitant ILD have increased KL-6 serum concentrations in comparison to myositis individuals without ILD, denoting its potential role in diagnosis and follow up of PM/DM with ILD. Further studies are needed to discuss the role of KL6 in large sample of the patient's population, and its correlation with other organ affection rather than ILD. Also to clarify the potentiality of adding the KL6 biomarker to the guidelines of treat to target for Rheumatic diseases with lung affection and to see the effect of treatment on KL6 serum level.

Building Consumer Trust in E-Commerce (Survey: Wiralodra University Students)

This study aims to analyze the influencing factors and strategies that can be used to build consumer trust in e-commerce. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies factors such as transaction security, data privacy, display quality, and information quality as important elements in building consumer trust. In addition, strategies such as ability, benevolence, and integrity also play an important role in increasing consumer trust. By understanding the importance of consumer trust and implementing appropriate strategies, businesses can strengthen customer relationships, increase loyalty, and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive environment. The research method used in this study is library research. Data is collected through analyzing various literature sources, including academic journals, books, research reports, and electronic sources related to consumer trust in e-commerce. Through this method, the research can provide deep insight into the theoretical foundations and empirical findings that exist in the literature related to consumer trust in e-commerce. The results of this study reveal some significant findings related to building consumer trust in the context of e-commerce. In this study, factors such as transaction security, data privacy, display quality and information quality were identified as key elements that influence consumer trust.

To dispel the suspicion of injustice concerning God Almighty's statement: "When We decide to destroy a population, We (first) send a definite order to those among them who are given the good things of this life and yet transgress; so that the word is proved true against them: then (it is) We destroy them utterly" [Al-Israa, Ayat 16 (17: 16

The research examines the doubt related to the justice of Allah, as mentioned in His statement, "When We decide to destroy a population, We (first) send a definite order to those among them who are given the good things of this life and yet transgress; so that the word is proved true against them: then (it is) We destroy them utterly." [Quran, Surah Al-Isra, 17: 16], and what might lead to the perception of a contradiction with His saying, "And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another." [Quran, Surah Al-Isra, 17: 15]. The researcher sought to address the earlier issue, initially by explaining the scholars' differences regarding whether justice is one of the names of Allah or not. The research also underscores the consensus among scholars that justice is an attribute of Allah.&#x0D; The study concludes that there is no contradiction between the two aforementioned verses. It does so by explaining that the punishment may befall the sinners for several reasons, including the prevalence of corruption and their assumption of authority over the people, their disobedience to Allah despite His blessings upon them, and the punishment inflicted upon the inhabitants of the city due to their failure to condemn the affluent and sinful among them. The research also explores the possibility that the punishment may befall the non-sinners who will be rewarded on the Day of Judgment for their good intentions, or Allah may compensate those who endure the punishment with various forms of blessings despite their lack of wrongdoing in place of the punishment. The study also emphasizes that even if Allah punishes those who are not disobedient, He, the Exalted and Glorious, exercises His sovereignty over His dominion, and His actions in His dominion are not considered unjust to anyone. The research is divided into an introduction, three sections, and a conclusion that includes the most significant findings and recommendations.

Quantification and significance of extraprostatic findings on prostate MRI: a retrospective analysis and three-tier classification

ObjectivesTo quantify extraprostatic findings (EPFs) on prostate MRI, estimate the proportion of reported and unreported EPFs, assess their clinical importance, and propose standardized reporting of EPFs.Materials and methodsProstate 3-T MRI studies, reports, and clinical data from 623 patients (age 67.9 ± 8.2 years) were retrospectively analyzed and re-evaluated for the presence of EPFs and their clinical significance: E1—no finding or findings that have no clinical significance; E2—potentially significant findings; and E3—significant findings.ResultsSecondary reading identified 1236 EPFs in 593 patients (1.98 ± 1.13 EPFs per patient, no EPFs in 30 patients), from which 468 (37.8%) were mentioned in the original report. The most common findings included diverticulosis (44% of patients), hydrocele (34%), inguinal fat hernia (16%), and bladder wall trabecular hypertrophy (15%). There were 80 (6.5%) E2 EPFs and 30 (2.4%) E3 EPFs. From E3 EPFs, 10 (33%) were not originally reported. A workup was suggested in 35 (52%) of the 67 originally reported E2 and E3 findings with follow-up and performed in 20 (30%). Fourteen (21%) EPFs in 11 patients influenced their management. Four experienced radiologists originally reported 1.8 to 2.5 findings per patient (p < 0.0001).ConclusionsEPFs on prostate MRI are frequent, but only 2.4% are clinically significant (E3), and 33% of these are not reported. Only 30% of E2 and E3 findings are further explored, and 21% influence patient management. We suggest that an “E” category should be attached to the PI-RADS system to identify the presence of EPFs that require further workup.Critical relevance statementExtraprostatic findings on prostate MRI are frequent, but only 2.4% are clinically significant (E3), and 33% of these are not reported. We advocate standardized reporting of extraprostatic findings indicating their clinical significance.Key points• Extraprostatic findings on prostate MRI are frequent with an average of two findings per patient.• 2.4% of extraprostatic findings are significant, and 33% of these are not reported.• There is a significant variability among experienced radiologists in reporting extraprostatic findings.Graphical

Exploring the Diplomatic, Social, and Cultural Nexus between Pakistan and Russia in Global Geopolitics

The idea of enduring animosity in international diplomacy is a misconception. Instead, global relations frequently shape new partnerships and diminish old rivalries, altering regional geopolitical dynamics. Pakistan and Russia exemplified this shift during the Cold War accordingly, evolving from separation to extensive cooperation across various sectors. The socio-cultural bonds and diplomatic ties between Russia and Pakistan have significantly influenced the global landscape. However, these connections have evolved due to geopolitical shifts, historical milestones, and regional conflicts, influencing their fluctuating nature. Currently, both countries are engaged in collaborative efforts to bolster their relationship, particularly in critical areas like military cooperation, energy, and regional trade. This research utilized historical methods based on secondary data from assorted research journals. Furthermore, it offers significant findings reshaping foreign policy of ties, regional nuisance, military exchanges, and socio-political and diplomatic touches in international geopolitics. This collaboration marks a significant point in reshaping the geopolitical landscape as Russo-Pakistan navigates this evolving relationship, reflecting the ongoing dynamics of globalism. The present study investigates the relations between Russo-Pakistan and yields substantive suggestions and implications for future diplomatic goals. This research would be supportive to delve into further facets of Russo-Pakistan dimensions and dynamics corresponding to geopolitical nuances. Ultimately, the conclusions of the exploration would play a crucial role in illuminating issues concerning peace, friendliness, and harmony within the global realm. Consequently, the results would also pave the way for future investigations. It facilitates the opportunity to input new paths for upcoming erudite scholars, research proficients, and foreign policy experts.

Investigating the effect of structural changes of two stretching disks on the dynamics of the MHD model

The purpose of this theoretical study is to explore the behavior of an electrically conducting micropolar fluid when subjected to a uniform magnetic field along the vertical axis between two stretching disks as the structure of the problem changes. In this context, structural changes refer to alterations in the distance between the two discs or the stretching rate of the two discs. The governing equations of this problem are a set of nonlinear coupled partial differential equations, which are transformed into a nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equation set by a similarity transformation. The transformation results in four dimensionless quantities and their derivatives that appear in the equations. Nine dimensionless parameters are derived via similarity variables, including stretching Reynolds number, magnetic parameter, radiation parameter, Prandtl number, Eckert number, Schmidt number, and three micropolar parameters. Previous similarity solutions focused on analyzing the effect of changes in each parameter on the four dimensionless quantities. However, this type of analysis is mainly mathematical and does not provide practical results. This study’s primary novelty is to redefine the magnetic parameter, Eckert number, stretching Reynolds number, and two micropolar parameters to analyze physical parameters that depend on the stretching rate of the two discs or the distance between them. The semi-analytical hybrid analytical and numerical method (HAN-method) is used to solve the equations. The results demonstrate that structural changes affect all five quantities of radial velocity, axial velocity, microrotation, temperature, and concentration. The study’s most significant finding is that an increase in the stretching rate of the two disks causes a sharp increase in temperature and Nusselt number. Conversely, increasing the distance between the two disks causes a sharp decrease in micro-rotation and wall couple stress. They were compared to a previous study in a specific case to validate the results’ accuracy.

Thin selective layered mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) with defective UiO-66 induced interface engineering toward highly enhanced pervaporation performance

The thin selective layer in mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) with high pervaporation performance is in high demand because of their high productivity. However, it has been limited because of the defective interface of sieving fillers in MMMs and the instability to permeate molecules, resulting in instability and degradation in the membrane state and pervaporation performance. Herein, we synthesized defective UiO-66 (DUiO66) by controlling the concentration of the reactants and then analyzed the characteristics of the defects. We confirmed that defects of the missing linker are induced in its structure, and DUiO66 (1.324) has a higher defect density than conventional UiO66 (1.064). Those led to the highly enhanced interface of DUiO66 with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix and water solvent, resulting in mechanical stability and a uniformed thin selective layer. Crosslinked thin-layered PVA MMMs with DUiO66 (XPDUiO66) were applied to the flat-sheet type and hollow fiber type membranes and then examined for the pervaporation performance to separate IPA/water solution (mainly 80/20 and 90/10 (w/w)). The thin-layered flat type and hollow fiber type XPDUiO66 revealed a dramatic increase in flux by 5.6 and 5.0 times compared to the free-standing type MMM while almost maintaining selectivity. Notably, the flat-sheet type XPDUiO66-2 increased around 606% and 1,664% in PSI relative to XPVA at a feed solution of 80/20 and 90/10 (w/w) IPA/water, respectively. The current work offers significant findings on the relationship between defective MOF-applied MMMs and pervaporation performance.

Response of yellow perch to water level fluctuations in oligotrophic, north‐temperate inland lakes

AbstractInformation on yellow perch Perca flavescens population dynamics and responses to various abiotic and biotic factors in oligotrophic, north‐temperate inland lakes is limited. Water level fluctuations are known to influence available habitat and biological communities within the littoral zones of lakes, yet research is lacking for yellow perch in Wisconsin. The goal of our study was to characterize yellow perch population‐level responses to natural water level fluctuations in four northern Wisconsin lakes using a 39‐year time series. On average, increasing water level periods correlated with lower mean fyke net and gill net relative abundances (catch‐per‐unit‐effort), though generally not statistically significant. Yellow perch mean relative weight varied among lakes and was significantly greater during increasing water level periods for all lakes except one. The lack of statistically significant findings potentially suggests a buffering mechanism of north‐temperate oligotrophic lakes due to their small surface area to volume ratios, relative lack of nutrients, and(or) littoral structural habitat compared to other systems (e.g., shallow eutrophic lakes). Our results suggest that natural water level fluctuations may not be an environmental concern for yellow perch populations in some north‐temperate oligotrophic inland lakes.

Exploring the social aspects of assessment practices in an engineering context

Assessment is a powerful mechanism to leverage student learning and develop skills and practices that prepare students for the world of work. By extension, assessment can also play a critical role in creating learning contexts that are inclusive, responsive, and transformative. This paper draws on findings from a student survey, lecturer interviews, and student focus groups, conducted in an engineering school in South Africa, that provide a rich picture of the interaction between lecturer intentions, assessment practices, student experiences, and how these influence student intentions, actions, and ultimately learning. The findings presented in this paper focus on the social themes that emerged, highlighting the social nature of assessment practices and the role that these play in student identity, confidence, and engagement. The importance of a purposeful and holistically aligned assessment strategy is highlighted through several social themes, including the fairness and relevance of assessment tasks, feedback and relationships between lecturers and students, group work, the formation of social networks and community, and opportunities for including students as partners in assessment practices. The study reveals that a more collaborative and collectivist approach to assessment is needed. This is a significant finding that provides valuable insights that can be used to transform assessment practices, enhance student success, and facilitate social justice.

SBAS-InSAR Based Deformation Monitoring of Tailings Dam: The Case Study of the Dexing Copper Mine No.4 Tailings Dam.

The No.4 tailings pond of the Dexing Copper Mine is the second largest in Asia. The tailing pond is a dangerous source of man-made debris flow with high potential energy. In view of the lack of effective and low-cost global safety monitoring means in this region, in this paper, the time-series InSAR technology is innovatively introduced to monitor the deformation of tailings dam and significant key findings are obtained. First, the surface deformation information of the tailings pond and its surrounding areas was extracted by using SBAS-InSAR technology and Sentinel-1A data. Second, the cause of deformation is explored by analyzing the deformation rate, deformation accumulation, and three typical deformation rate profiles of the representative observation points on the dam body. Finally, the power function model is used to predict the typical deformation observation points. The results of this paper indicated that: (1) the surface deformation of the tailings dam can be categorized into two directions: the upper portion of the dam moving away from the satellite along the Line of Sight (LOS) at a rate of -40 mm/yr, whereas the bottom portion approaching the satellite along the LOS at a rate of 8 mm/yr; (2) the deformation of the dam body is mainly affected by the inventory deposits and the construction materials of the dam body; (3) according to the current trend, deformation of two typical observation points in the LOS direction will reach the cumulative deformation of 80 mm and -360 mm respectively. The research results can provide data support for safety management of No.4 tailings dam in the Dexing Copper Mine, and provide a method reference for monitoring other similar tailings dams.

Do underwriting profit factors affect general insurance firms’ profitability in South Africa?

This research paper examines the correlation between underwriting profit factors and the overall profitability of publicly traded general insurance companies operating in South Africa. The study analyzed a sample of 36 insurers, considering their quantifiable markets and accessible financial data from 2008 to 2019. Employing signal correlation analysis, the investigation explored the associations between various financial indicators and Return on Assets (ROA). The results revealed negative correlations between ROA and the logarithms of total investment (TI), shareholder funds (SF), and underwriting profits (UWP), with correlation coefficients of –0.4500, –0.3365, and –0.4050, respectively. These findings indicate that as TI, SF, and UWP increase, there is a tendency for ROA to decrease for general insurance companies in South Africa. Furthermore, a positive relationship was observed between the earning-asset ratio and ROA. This suggests that as the earning-asset ratio rises, the ROA of general insurance firms in South Africa tends to improve, indicating a potentially favorable impact on profitability. The significant findings of this study emphasize the importance of prioritizing effective risk management practices within insurance firms. By implementing these measures, such as minimizing the likelihood of claims and ensuring accurate reflection of assumed risks in premium charges, insurance companies can maintain positive underwriting profit. This, in turn, has the potential to enhance their overall profitability.

Emerging Trends in South African Higher Education: A Critical Analysis of Distance Learning Modalities in Music

This study addresses the dynamic shifts in South African higher education, focusing on integrating distance learning into music education. The proliferation of digital platforms has redefined educational paradigms, necessitating a critical examination of its impact on music pedagogy within the South African context. Employing a qualitative critical analysis methodology, this research leverages existing scientific literature to discern patterns, challenges, and opportunities presented by distance learning modalities. Anchored in Jack Mezirow's Transformative Learning Theory, this study investigates emerging trends in distance learning modalities within South African higher education music programmes. Two significant findings emerge: firstly, distance learning fosters student autonomy, enabling self-directed exploration of musical concepts. Secondly, collaborative online environments facilitate cross-cultural musical exchanges, enriching students' cultural understanding and musical proficiency. This study underscores the imperative of harnessing technology for music education in South Africa, emphasising its capacity to democratise access and broaden cultural understanding. The findings contribute to a growing body of literature on transformative learning experiences in music education, offering practical insights for educators and policymakers. As South Africa's educational landscape continues to evolve, this research lays a foundation for the innovative integration of digital platforms, ushering in a new era of inclusive and culturally enriched music education.

Bringing up to date the toolkit for the catabolism of aromatic compounds in fungi: The unexpected 1,2,3,5-tetrahydroxybenzene central pathway.

Saprophytic fungi are able to catabolize many plant-derived aromatics, including, for example, gallate. The catabolism of gallate in fungi is assumed to depend on the five main central pathways, i.e., of the central intermediates' catechol, protocatechuate, hydroxyquinol, homogentisate and gentisate, but a definitive demonstration is lacking. To shed light on this process, we analysed the transcriptional reprogramming of the growth of Aspergillus terreus on gallate compared with acetate as the control condition. Surprisingly, the results revealed that the five main central pathways did not exhibit significant positive regulation. Instead, an in-depth analysis identified four highly expressed and upregulated genes that are part of a conserved gene cluster found in numerous species of fungi, though not in Aspergilli. The cluster comprises a monooxygenase gene and a fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase-like gene, which are recognized as key components of catabolic pathways responsible for aromatic compound degradation. The other two genes encode proteins with no reported enzymatic activities. Through functional analyses of gene deletion mutants in Aspergillus nidulans, the conserved short protein with no known domains could be linked to the conversion of the novel metabolite 5-hydroxydienelatone, whereas the DUF3500 gene likely encodes a ring-cleavage enzyme for 1,2,3,5-tetrahydroxybenzene. These significant findings establish the existence of a new 1,2,3,5-tetrahydroxybenzene central pathway for the catabolism of gallate and related compounds (e.g. 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzoate) in numerous fungi where this catabolic gene cluster was observed.

Blood Grouping by Seed Extract: An Innovative Approach in Forensic Science

Background: Blood grouping is a fundamental technique in forensic science, aiding in the identification of individuals involved in criminal investigations and accidents. This research paper introduces a pioneering method that employs plant seed extracts for blood grouping, aiming to revolutionize the field by providing a novel and cost-effective approach. The context and purpose of the study revolve around addressing the limitations of traditional blood grouping methods and exploring the feasibility of utilizing natural compounds present in seeds to determine blood types accurately. The study's primary focus was to investigate the potential of various seed extracts to agglutinate or inhibit the agglutination of blood samples. By conducting extensive experiments and analyses, the research uncovered significant findings. Certain seed extracts exhibited remarkable specificity in agglutinating with distinct blood types, mimicking the reaction patterns seen in conventional blood grouping systems. Conversely, other seed extracts demonstrated inhibitory effects on agglutination, further enhancing the discriminatory power of the approach. This research thus establishes a clear correlation between seed extracts and blood types, demonstrating their potential for accurate blood grouping. Results: In summary, this paper presents a groundbreaking advancement in forensic science by proposing a new perspective on blood grouping using natural seed extracts. The technique's simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it particularly appealing for implementation in resource-constrained settings. Additionally, the ability to utilize common plant seeds found in various geographical regions enhances its practicality and accessibility. Furthermore, the results suggest that this innovative approach has the potential to complement existing blood grouping methods, providing an additional tool for forensic experts to employ. Conclusions: The implications of this research are substantial for both forensic science and criminal investigations. The proposed seed extract-based blood grouping method could substantially expedite the identification process, aiding law enforcement agencies and forensic practitioners. Moreover, its applicability in situations where traditional methods are unavailable or impractical, such as in remote locations or developing countries, underscores its significance. Overall, this study not only introduces a cutting-edge technique for blood grouping but also paves the way for future research avenues in exploring the potential of natural compounds in forensic science applications. In conclusion, this research marks a significant step forward in the realm of blood grouping techniques. The study's findings open up new possibilities for innovative approaches in forensic science and offer promising avenues for enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility in the field of blood type determination.

Radiographers’ perceptions on the quality of managing general radiographic paediatric examinations through the use of a reflective tool

Introduction Paediatric patients are a vulnerable population that require additional care by healthcare professionals. Quality managing these examinations ensures that effective and quality care is provided to individual patients, whilst encouraging consistency within the medical imaging department. This study explored radiographers’ perspectives on quality management strategies of general radiographic paediatric examinations using a paediatric imaging reflective checklist. Methods A quantitative descriptive research design with qualitative questions was used through a purposive sampling method from both public and private Australian diagnostic imaging qualified radiographers who had experience in paediatric imaging examinations. The paediatric imaging service reflective tool consisted of 65 items in total. Data analysis entailed Microsoft Excel version 16.16.6 and Jamovi version 2.3.21 for the closed-ended questions and for the open-ended responses a thematic analysis. Results The participation rate was 13.2% and the most significant findings were: lead shielding was still being used at their organisation, despite recent recommendations to suspend its use; access to paediatric patient related information resources is limited; there was no involvement of families and communities regarding policy development or quality improvement measures as advocated in literature; and there was a need for enhanced specialised paediatric education, training and protocols. Conclusion Using the paediatric patient-centred imaging reflective checklist, radiographers had an opportunity to identify quality improvement indicators as well as issues that could further enhance best practice principles. Further studies could inform on the validity of this reflective tool.

Nutritional-environmental trade-offs in potato storage and processing for a sustainable healthy diet

Over the last decade, poor diets and limited access to nutritious foods have been critical drivers of micronutrient deficiency in human health. However, food fortification at an industrialized scale in developed countries has helped eliminate deficiency-related diseases. In developing countries, fortified foods and biofortified materials have been delivered to nutrient-deficient communities. While these strategies have produced significant and acclaimed results, reports from the Food and Agricultural Organization suggest that over a quarter of the world’s population suffers from micronutrient deficiency. This implies that there are still declines in micronutrients in food products at different nodes along the food value chain (FVC). Hence, this study sets out to track micronutrient leakages at specific nodes of the FVC using potato household storage, processing, and consumption in the United States as a case study. The experiment was laid out in a full factorial design with three storage conditions (cupboard at (17.5–22.4 °C, 32.7–48% RH), refrigerator at (–1.8 – 0.89 °C, 37.5–66.1% RH) and ideal condition at (7.2–11.1 °C, 85.0–92.4% RH)), two storage times (2 weeks (±3 days) and 5 weeks (±3 days)) and three household processing pathways (boiling in water, baking at 204 °C, and frying in vegetable oil at 149–204 °C). Additionally, we explored the dynamics of optimal household storage and processing pathways by placing a high, low, or equal priority on environmental sustainability or nutrient retention. The results show that storing potatoes for 5 weeks (±3 days) and processing through boiling (in water at 100 °C), baking (at 204 °C), and frying (in vegetable oil at 149–204 °C) are associated with 33.5%, 40.3% and 15.0% greater nutrient loss than a similar processing scenario after 2 weeks (±3 days) of storage. Additionally, storing and processing potatoes after 5 weeks (±3 days) results in approximately 2.2 ± 0.7 times more damage to human health, ecosystem safety, and resource availability than storing and processing potatoes after 2 weeks (±3 days), averaged between the different storage conditions. Storing and processing after 5 weeks (±3 days) results in approximately 53.6 ± 10.3 times more damage to human health, species disappearing per year, and USD loss than freshly purchased and processed potatoes. Perhaps the most significant finding from the study is that storing potatoes in cupboards and boiling (BL-CP pathway) is optimal for achieving a sustainable healthy diet, as it yields the optimal combination of nutrient retention and low environmental damage. Insights from the study could be translated to support consumer decision-making as they weigh the value of environmental sustainability against nutrition in the context of household potato storage and processing.