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Evaluation of the anti-diabetic effects of Commelina diffusa on testicular tissue of male Wistar rats
Get PDFBackground: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic illness defined by elevated blood sugar levels caused by insulin deficit or resistance, as well as structural and functional problems in several organs. Aim and Objectives: This study assesses the efficacy of Commelina diffusa Extract (CDE) on the reproductive functions of diabetic male Wistar rats. Material and Methods: Thirty mature male Wistar rats were grouped into five groups of five rats each. Group 1: Normal control + STZ + 600 mg/kg CDE; Group 5: HFD + STZ + 1200 mg/kg CDE. All treatments were carried out for 21 days. On the 22 day of the experiment, after an overnight fast, the experimental rats were sacrificed via cervical dislocation, and the testicular tissues were collected for biochemical, hormonal, and semen quality examination. The study found a substantial drop (p < 0.05) in antioxidant activity, male sex hormones, and sperm quality. Treatment with CDE significantly repaired the damage caused by diabetes. Conclusion: CDE is efficient in reducing oxidative stress, increasing antioxidant defense, improving reproductive hormone balance, and preserving male reproductive health in the face of poor metabolic circumstances
An Accurate Intelligent Plan Library for Belief-Based Desire Prioritization to Intentions in BDIx Agents
No full textThe emergence of 6G technology is poised to revolutionize wireless networks through advanced Device-to-Device (D2D) communications, offering ultra-reliable, low-latency, and
high-throughput connections. However, the increased complexity and density of 6G D2D networks necessitate autonomous, distributed, and dynamic decision-making capabilities to ensure efficient and reliable operations. Belief-Desire-Intention eXtended (BDIx) agents present a promising solution by enabling intelligent selection and execution of communication strategies based on real-time environmental assessments and internal states. This paper introduces an Plan Library designed to enhance BDIx agents’ ability to prioritize desires grounded in their beliefs, thereby facilitating robust intention formation tailored to the dynamic requirements of 6G D2D communications. Our approach
integrates advanced machine learning and fuzzy logic techniques to optimize desire prioritization and intention management.
We evaluated six models— Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System PlanLibrary (ANFIS PL), Random Forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Fuzzy Logic, Gradient Boosting, and K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN)—across metrics including Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F1-Score, Computational Time, Memory Usage, and CPU Utilization. Results demonstrate that ANFIS PL and Random Forest achieve superior performance while maintaining efficient computational resource usage. The proposed Plan Library approach significantly enhances BDIx agents’ capability to prioritize and execute communication strategies autonomously, ensuring optimal performance and adaptability in 6G D2D networks. This advancement underscores the pivotal role of intelligent agent architectures in next-generation wireless communication systems, paving the way for more resilient and efficient network operations
The paradox of plastic packaging
No full textThis chapter examines the paradox of plastic packaging in the food industry. While plastic food packaging offers undeniable benefits such as protection, extended shelf life, and enhanced consumer appeal, it poses significant environmental challenges. The persistence of plastic waste in the environment, with only a small fraction being recycled, raises concerns about its impact on ecosystems and human health. This chapter emphasises the need for collaboration among consumers, businesses, and waste management organisations to develop and implement effective strategies. We call for a critical examination of the necessity of plastic packaging and advocate for designs that prioritise recyclability or reuse. In the second part of this chapter, we highlight successful sustainable packaging projects, providing concrete examples of how innovative materials and strategies can lead to a more environmentally sustainable future. Highlighting the political nature of the issue and the influence of supply chain stakeholders and policymakers, this chapter emphasises the importance of adopting a multi-pronged approach to create sustainable and responsible packaging practices. This work contributes to the broader discussion on sustainable consumption and the need for balance between convenience and environmental stewardship. By recognising all these aspects, we can begin to create a more sustainable and responsible approaches to plastic packaging
The Effectiveness of Zinc-Biofortified Wheat Flour Intake on the Growth and Morbidity Outcomes of Rural Pakistani Children and Adolescent Girls: A Cluster-Randomised, Double-Blind, Controlled Trial
Get PDFBackground: Zinc-biofortified cereals are a promising strategy to combat zinc deficiency, though evidence on health outcomes is limited. This study assessed effectiveness of consuming zinc-biofortified wheat flour on growth and zinc-related morbidity among adolescent girls (10–16 years; N = 517) and children (1–5 years; N = 517) living in rural northwest Pakistan. Methods: In this double-blind, cluster-randomised controlled effectiveness trial, 486 households received either zinc-biofortified or control wheat flour for 25 weeks. Anthropometric measurements and lung function tests (LFT) were performed at beginning, middle, and endline. Data on incidence and duration of respiratory tract infection (RTI) and diarrhoea in the preceding two weeks were collected fortnightly. Analyses included baseline-adjusted linear mixed models for continuous outcomes and Pearson’s chi-square for categorical data. Results: At a zinc differential of 3.7 mg/kg for adolescent girls provided by zinc-biofortified wheat flour, the intervention had no significant effect on height or weight. For children, head circumference was significantly greater in the biofortified group at endline (control 48.47 ± 2.03 cm vs intervention 48.76 ± 1.82 cm; p = 0.003), with no differences in other anthropometric parameters. Towards the end of the trial a lower incidence of RTIs was reported in the intervention arm compared to the control arm for both children (week 26: control 34.7% vs intervention 17.6%, p = 0.036) and adolescent girls (week 24: control 19.3% vs intervention 11.5%, 0.037; week 26: control 14.5% vs intervention 6.1%; p = 0.014). When the longitudinal prevalence (cumulative days of sickness as a percentage of total days) of RTI was considered, no treatment effects were observed. No benefits of treatment were reported for diarrhoea or LFT. Conclusions: Provision of zinc-biofortified wheat flour for 25 weeks did not have a significant effect on growth of adolescent girls but modestly improved head circumference in children. Longer-term interventions are needed to monitor changes in functional outcomes with the national scale-up of zinc-biofortified wheat varieties
Innovative Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training Strategy for Primary Care Staff which Addressed Pandemic Limitations: Feasibility Study for a Randomized Controlled Trial
No full textPrimary care nurses, dental nurses, and support staff rarely attend cardiac arrest and lack crash-team support. International evidence indicates that retention of resuscitation knowledge and skills fades within the common 12-months re-training period. The primary aim was to develop and refine a new resuscitation training intervention, determining feasibility and acceptability of proposed study procedures and outcome measures. The secondary aim was to determine whether useful data should result from the main study. In a mixed-methods study, participants used a manikin with Lifesaver and QCPR resuscitation apps to determine their adult resuscitation and defibrillation skill levels. Data were recorded from the apps, observation and questionnaires. Focused interviews provided narrative data. A diverse sample was secured, and robust data resulted from data-collection activities. Participants reported procedures to be acceptable, and maintenance of skills was enhanced in the three-monthly training schedule. For the full study, minor issues of ambiguity in instructions and improved layout of the observation sheet will be corrected. Debriefing and repeated practice will be specific features. Modifications during the COVID-19 pandemic could guide essential training in similarly disruptive events. Progression criteria were exceeded. Proceeding to the statistically-powered, randomized controlled trial to establish the impact of a novel resuscitation training strategy was indicated
Compatibility of physical education curricula with physical literacy across 40 European countries
Get PDFAlthough the student-centred concept of physical literacy (PL) has been emphasized by UNESCO, knowledge about its adoption/implementation into PE remains scant. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate and compare the compatibility of PE curricula with PL in Europe. We collaboratively gathered a panel of experts encompassing 40 European countries. In the first step, the experts were invited to freely specify the compatibility of country’s PE curricula with PL. The reports were subjected to six-step reflexive thematic analysis. In the second step, we theoretically derived, psychometrically explored, and descriptively analysed 15 curricular-didactical items, each containing a spectrum of statements with high versus no/insufficient PL compatibility. We synthesized both data sources following an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. While few PE curricula explicitly adhered to PL in Europe, most documents exhibited content and aims marking elements of PL. However, we registered large differences in PL-compatibility between four European regions for the deep structure of the curricula (η2=.27, p=.01). While the quantitative survey suggested no differences in PL compatibility between anglophone versus non-anglophone countries, the qualitative material revealed conceptual and terminological challenges across Europe. The European countries have hesitantly followed the UNESCO call to align PE with the holistic PL concept
Exploring the link between suicidal ideation and digital environments: The hidden impact of marketing content
Get PDFThis paper explores the complex relationship between suicidal ideation and digital environments, with a particular focus on the hidden impact of marketing content. It aims to investigate how targeted advertising and algorithm-driven content can exacerbate mental health vulnerabilities among youth, potentially increasing suicide risk. Emphasizing the need to understand these digital influences, this study highlights the critical role of responsible marketing practices and platform accountability in safeguarding young users. Ultimately, it calls for further research to develop effective interventions within the evolving digital landscape
Quantifying the Impact: Leveraging AI-Powered Sentiment Analysis for Strategic Digital Marketing and Enhanced Brand Reputation Management
Get PDFDigital communication platforms have led to exponential growth in user-generated content (UGC), making manual analysis of consumer sentiment impractical. Automated, scalable solutions are necessary to understand market perception and manage brand reputation effectively. This research investigates applying Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically sentiment analysis (SA), to process digital communications. Businesses can leverage AI-powered SA in digital marketing to boost campaign performance, analyze feedback, and identify trends. It also supports brand management by measuring reputation, detecting crises, and analyzing competitive positioning. The paper reviews SA techniques, including machine learning and deep learning, and proposes a methodology for analyzing UGC using AI models. Hypothetical results suggest AI SA offers quantifiable insights into sentiment distribution and its link to marketing and brand outcomes. The findings are interpreted and connected to existing research, with practical implications discussed. AI SA is a vital tool for businesses navigating the digital environment, enabling data-driven decisions for better customer relationships and stronger brand equity
The Mass Grave Project: Advancing Mass Grave Investigation Through an Interdisciplinary Program of Actualistic Taphonomic Research
No full textThe “Mass Grave Project” is an interdisciplinary program of taphonomic experiments simulating clandestine mass and single graves with human body donors at the Forensic Anthropology Center, Texas State University (FACTS). It aims to contribute to the development, testing, and validation of scientific methods for mass grave investigation, by increasing current knowledge and understanding of mass grave taphonomy. Specific objectives include, among others: refining remote and ground-based detection methods and 3D documentation techniques, investigating the potential of biomolecular and microbial biomarkers for more precise and accurate postmortem interval and age-at-death estimation, studying DNA degradation and transfer between individuals in mass graves, and evaluating diagenesis and alteration of isotopic signatures of different human tissues. The project aims to generate recommendations for documentation, sampling, and analysis protocols, as well as develop advanced virtual reality simulation and training environments that can be used for testing scientific hypotheses as well as the training of investigators in mass grave excavation and documentation methods
Dual‐ vs. Single‐Antibiotic Loaded Cement for Hip Hemiarthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Get PDFBackground: Antibiotic‐loaded cement (ALC) is often used to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) in hip hemiarthroplasty; however, controversy exists regarding the use of dual antibiotic‐loaded cement (DALC) and single antibiotic‐loaded cement (SALC). Objective: This systematic review and meta‐analysis compare the efficacy of DALC and SALC for hip hemiarthroplasty. Methods: For this systematic review, a search was undertaken in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Grey literature such as ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global (PQDT) was also explored. The inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or comparative observational studies, and patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty with DALC or SALC. Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) and RoB 2.0 tools were used for risk of bias assessment in observational and RCTs, respectively. Review Manager (RevMan, version 5.4.1; The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark) was used for statistical analysis. The primary outcome was the incidence of deep SSIs. Results: A total of five articles, including 28,418 participants, met the inclusion criteria. Three of the included studies were retrospective studies, one quasi‐randomized study, and one RCT. The primary outcome revealed that DALC was associated with a statistically significant reduction in deep SSIs compared to SALC (RR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.29–0.76; p = 0.002; I2 = 27%). Subgroup analysis based on the study design did not show a significant difference for deep SSIs (p = 0.29). The majority of the secondary outcomes, such as superficial SSIs, mortality, participants with ≥ 1 complication, or antibiotic use, did not show any significant difference. However, DALC significantly lowered the risk of any infection (RR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.38–0.79; p = 0.001; I2 = 27%). Conclusion: In conclusion, DALC can significantly reduce the risk of SSIs and the overall rate of any infection in hip hemiarthroplasty. A limitation of this study is that RCTs were pooled with observational studies, which decreased the power of analysis. Therefore, further research, including large RCTs, is needed to validate these findings