GmSTOP1-3 regulates flavonoid synthesis to reduce ROS accumulation and enhance aluminum tolerance in soybean.

Aluminum (Al) toxicity is a significant limiting factor for crop production in acid soils. The functions and regulatory mechanisms of transcription factor STOP1 (Sensitive to Proton Rhizotoxicity 1) family genes in Al-tolerance have been widely studied in many plant species, except for soybean. Here, expression of GmSTOP1-3 was significantly enhanced by Al stress in soybean roots. Overexpression of GmSTOP1-3 resulted in enhanced root elongation and decreased Al content, which was accompanied by increased antioxidant capacity under Al treatment. Furthermore, RNA-seq identified 498 downstream genes of GmSTOP1-3, including genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis. Among them, the expression of chalcone synthase (GmCHS) and isoflavone synthase (GmIFS) were highly enhanced by GmSTOP1-3 overexpression. Further quantitative flavonoid metabolome analysis showed that overexpression of GmSTOP1-3 significantly increased the content of naringenin chalcone, naringenin, and genistein in soybean roots under Al treatment, which positively correlated with the expression level of the genes relative to flavonoid biosynthesis. Notably, genistein had a significant positive correlation with the expression levels of GmIFS. Combination of Dual Luciferase Complementation (LUC) and Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assays (EMSA) revealed that GmSTOP1-3 directly bound to the promoters of GmCHS/GmIFS and activated both genes' transcription. Taken together, these results suggest that GmSTOP1-3 enhances soybean Al tolerance partially through regulating the flavonoid synthesis.

Health risk assessment of lead and cadmium exposure from food and snuff in Pakistani population.

BACKGROUND: Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is a tobacco-based product consumed without burning or smoking. Snuff, commonly known as naswar, is a widely used SLT product in Pakistan. This study is designed to investigate the concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in snuff and their associated health risks to consumers. METHODS: Blood samples from snuff consumers and non-consumers were analyzed for Pb and Cd concentrations. Additionally, samples of drinking water and wheat flour were also analyzed for Pb and Cd. Health risk assessments were calculated using hazard quotient (HQ) and incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) for Pb and Cd. RESULTS: Snuff consumers had significantly higher blood-Pb and blood-Cd levels compared to non-consumers. Approximately 38.5 % of snuff consumers were found to exceed blood-Pb levels from the safe limits (10 µg dL⁻¹) of the World Health Organization (WHO), while 48.9 % of snuff consumers were found to exceed blood-Cd levels from the WHO safe range of 0.03-0.12 µg dL⁻¹. Snuff samples contained Pb and Cd concentrations ranging from 5.3 to 22.4 µg g⁻¹ and 0.5-2.2 µg g⁻¹, respectively. Drinking water and wheat flour samples were found within the safe limits for Pb and Cd concentration, suggesting snuff as the primary source of exposure. Health risk assessments indicated elevated HQ values, for Pb (38.9 %) and Cd (14.3 %) detected in snuff, surpassing the safe HQ threshold of 1. Concerning ILCR from snuff, values for Pb were within the acceptable range, but alarmingly 100 % of samples for Cd exceeded the safe limits of USEPA (1.0×10⁻4), indicating a significant cancer risk in snuff users. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the exceeded Pb and Cd concentrations in snuff as well as also reporting significant carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks to consumers. These findings emphasized the urgent need for regulatory bodies to ensure the safety of snuff before selling in the market. Public Health Professionals should also initiate educational campaigns to raise awareness among consumers and manufacturers about various health risks associated with the snuff.

Antiurolithic activity of Zaleya pentandra (L.) C Jeffrey in ethylene glycol-induced calcium oxalate crystal rat model; A scientific validation of traditional use for kidney stone prevention.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Traditional herbal remedies have been used for treating nephrolithiasis, but the relevant scientific evidence is limited. Zaleya pentandra (L.) C. Jeffrey is traditionally used for the prevention of kidney stones in various cultures. However, its efficacy has not been scientifically studied. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the antiurolithic activity of Zaleya pentandra, and validate its traditional used for preventing kidney stones. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The crude ethanolic extract of Z. pentandra (Zp.Crd) was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro experiments assessed its impact on crystal count and morphology in metastable calcium oxalate solutions. In vivo studies involved diuretic and ethylene glycol-induced calcium oxalate crystal formation in male Wistar rats. RESULTS: Zp.Crd transforms calcium oxalate crystals from harmful calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) to calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD). In vivo, Zp.Crd exhibited dose-dependent (30-300 mg/kg) diuretic activity in rats by significantly increasing urinary sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) excretion, similar to the standard diuretic hydrochlorothiazide (HCT). In the urolithiasis model, Zp.Crd exhibited dose-dependent antiurolithic effects by reducing kidney crystals and significantly altering lithogenic factors induced by ethylene glycol, including crystalluria, oxaluria, calcium, creatinine, and urea, in the urine and serum of treated rats. Zp.Crd also exhibited antioxidant effects, effectively combating oxidative lithogenic stress in rats. CONCLUSION: Zp.Crd has been shown to demonstrate antiurolithic activity against CaOx stones through CaOx crystal inhibition, diuretic activity, antioxidant properties, hypocalciuric effects, and hypercitrauric actions. The findings underscore Zp.Crd's potential as a viable alternative or supplemental therapy to current urolithiasis treatments, paving the door for further clinical trials and its inclusion into modern medical practices.

Non-enzymatic electrochemical detection of sarcosine in serum of prostate cancer patients by CoNiWBO/rGO nanocomposite.

Selective and sensitive sarcosine detection is crucial due to its recent endorsement as a prostate cancer (PCa) biomarker in clinical diagnosis. The reduced graphene oxide-cobalt nickel tungsten boron oxides (CoNiWBO/rGO) nanocomposite is developed as a non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for sarcosine detection in PCa patients' serum. CoNiWBO/rGO is synthesized by the chemical reduction method via a one-pot reduction method followed by calcination at 500 °C under a nitrogen environment for 2 h and characterized by UV-Vis, XRD, TGA, and SEM. CoNiWBO/rGO is then deposited on a glassy carbon electrode, and sarcosine sensing parameters are optimized, including concentration and pH. This non-enzymatic sensor is employed to directly determine sarcosine in serum samples. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) are employed to monitor the electrochemical behavior where sarcosine binding leads to oxidation. Chronoamperometric studies show the stability of the developed sensor. The results demonstrate a wide linear range from 0.1 to 50 µM and low limits of detection, i.e., 0.04 µM and 0.07 µM using DPV and LSV respectivel. Moreover, the calculated recovery of sarcosine in human serum of prostate cancer patients is 78-96%. The developed electrochemical sensor for sarcosine detection can have potential applications in clinical diagnosis.

Hierarchical (Ni,Co)0.85Se sheets for efficient oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalysis: a combined approach of fabrication control and mechanistic understanding.

We present a fabrication process for hierarchical (Ni,Co)0.85Se sheets, achieving efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity with a 10 mA cm-2 current density at an overpotential of 290 mV. Porous architecture and doping improve kinetics, supported by DFT calculations. This approach offers insights into designing stable, high-performance OER catalysts.

Predictors of Ischemic Stroke After Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Retrospective Analysis.

Background Ischemic stroke (IS) is a fatal complication of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Factors that speed up IS development after ACS are understudied, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. Thus, this study was designed to identify the potential risk factors of IS in patients with a preceding episode of ACS. Methodology This retrospective study was performed on 208 patients whose ACS and its consequent complications such as IS were managed in the cardiac and neurology units of Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, from January 2022 to March 2023. Patients were enrolled via consecutive sampling and pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Before data collection, informed consent and ethical approval were obtained. Data were retrieved from the medical records of the patients. A self-structured proforma was applied to collect data. SPSS version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) was used for data analysis. The study variables between patients with and without IS were compared using descriptive and inferential statistics. The association between IS and its possible risk factors in patients who had previously experienced ACS was determined using multivariate logistic regression. Results Of the 208 enrolled patients, 24 (11.54%) had IS following ACS. Sedentary lifestyle (odds ratio (OR) = 3.099, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.025~4.219, p = 0.009), hypertension (OR = 3.060, 95% CI = 1.798~4.876, p = 0.002), diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.899, 95% CI = 1.126~4.112, p = 0.009), dyslipidemia (OR = 2.907, 95% CI = 1.332~4.254, p = 0.007), history of smoking (OR = 2.760, 95% CI = 1.234~4.122, p = 0.018), and non-adherence to ACS medication (OR = 2.966, 95% CI = 1.300~4.266, p = 0.030), were the risk factors of IS among patients with preceding ACS. Conclusions In the study population, the incidence of IS following ACS was significant. Sedentary lifestyle, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking history, and non-compliance with ACS therapy all played a significant role in the development of IS in patients with prior ACS. Proper management of ACS and associated risk factors could lead to the prevention of serious complications such as IS.

Understanding rhizospheric microbial dynamics in gladiolus corms through quorum sensing and quorum quenching for disease control and growth promotion.

Gladiolus, a widely cultivated cut flower known for its aesthetically pleasing multicoloured spikes, has earned significant commercial popularity. A comprehensive understanding of the rhizosphere bacterial community associated with gladiolus is imperative for revealing its potential benefits. Molecular characterization is considered an effective method to gain insights into the structural and functional aspects of microbial populations. The soil characteristics and bacterial communities in the rhizosphere are typically influenced by quorum sensing (QS) and quorum quenching (QQ) mechanisms. This study aims to explore the niceties and diversity of rhizospheric bacterial populations linked with gladiolus corms, with a specific focus on understanding the dynamics of QS and QQ mechanisms in their complex interactions. The isolation of bacterial strains was achieved through the serial dilution method on nutrient agar (NA) media. The identification of the isolates was accomplished by amplifying 16 S rRNA gene sequences via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) via the use of universal primers. Sequence analysis was conducted via BLAST on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The characteristics of the isolated bacteria were elucidated via biosensors. This study identified three QS strains and five QQ strains. A consortium of quenchers was formulated utilizing five strains that demonstrated efficacy in mitigating the impact of disease on gladiolus and fostering growth. Among the three treatments-Scale, Descale, and Descale and Cut Half (DSC)-the DSC treatment emerged as the most effective. This treatment exhibited a broader range of variation in biological parameters over time, aligning with prevailing trends in the local market.

Correction: Analyzing chaos and superposition of lump waves with other waves in the time-fractional coupled nonlinear Schördinger equation.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304334.].

Factors Contributing to Lack of Adherence to Antihypertensive Medications Among Patients at Nishtar Hospital in Multan, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension affects 26.7% of Pakistan's population, with only 6% achieving control. This study investigates antihypertensive medication adherence in Multan, focusing on socioeconomic and patient-related factors influencing non-adherence to study the lack of adherence to antihypertensive medications in hypertensive patients and its associated factors at Nishtar Hospital in Multan, Pakistan. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among hypertensive patients admitted at Nishtar Hospital Multan, Pakistan. Patients under the age of 20 years were excluded from the study. A self-developed questionnaire was used to gather the demographic details of patients. The Hill-Bone Medication Adherence Scale was used via a non-probability convenience sampling technique to deduce the adherence level in patients. Data analysis was done using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) v23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Out of 217 respondents, most were female, married, unemployed, and residing in urban areas. Most of them had a higher level of education and a monthly income averaging below 30,000 PKR (Pakistani Rupee). The insight into the hypertensive history showed that most of them had a positive family history and comorbid conditions, and were hypertensive for more than five years. The majority of the patients had a complex regimen prescribed to them with multiple doses throughout the day. The minority were smokers and had medications provided to them for free, through public or government-funded institutions. More importantly, adherence to the antihypertensive therapy was negatively correlated with the age of the patients (p = 0.004, r = -0.195), complexity of regimen (p = 0.041), multiple dosing (p = 0.039), and cost of medication (p = 0.043). All of these relations were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Lack of adherence to antihypertensive medications in hypertensive patients is more common in populations belonging to older age groups, complex regimens, multiple doses, and higher medicine fees.

An integrated approach of support vector machine (SVM) and weight of evidence (WOE) techniques to map groundwater potential and assess water quality.

This study addresses the critical need for effective groundwater (GW) management in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, amidst challenges posed by rapid urbanization and population growth. By integrating Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Weight of Evidence (WOE) techniques, this study aimed to delineate GW potential zones and assess water quality. This study fills the gap in applying advanced machine learning and geostatistical methods for accurate GW potential mapping. Eight thematic layers based on topography, hydrology, geology, and ecology were utilized to compute the GW potential model. Additionally, water quality analysis was performed on collected samples. The findings indicate that flat and gently sloping terrains, areas with an elevation range of 611 -687 m, and concave slope geometries are associated with higher GW potential. Additionally, proximity to drainage and high-density lineament zones contribute to increased GW potential. The results showed that 31.1% of the area had excellent GW potential according to the WOE model, whereas the SVM model indicated that only 20.3% fell in the excellent potential zone. Results showed that both models performed well in the delineating GW potential zones. Nevertheless, the application of the SVM method is highly recommended which will be benefited in GW resources management related to urban planning. The study also evaluates the spatial distribution of GW quality, with a focus on physical and chemical parameters, including electrical conductivity, pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids, calcium, magnesium, chloride, nitrate, and sulphate. Bacterial contamination assessment reveals that 76% of spring water samples (30 out of 39 samples) are contaminated with E.coli, raising public health concerns. Based on the chemical analysis of GW samples the study identified exceedances of WHO guidelines for calcium in two samples, magnesium in seven samples, sulphate in ten samples, and nitrate levels were below the WHO guideline across all samples. These results highlight localized chemical contamination issues that require targeted remediation efforts to safeguard water quality for public health.

Transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease in an immunocompetent individual.

Transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD) is a fatal complication that occurs in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals following blood transfusion. It is characterised by donor lymphocyte attacks on recipient tissues. We present a case of TA-GVHD in an immunocompetent man in his 70s who developed fever, diarrhoea, rash and pancytopenia after non-irradiated blood transfusion from an unrelated donor. Despite aggressive treatment, the patient's condition deteriorated leading to his death, highlighting the challenges in recognising and managing TA-GVHD. This case emphasises considering TA-GVHD as a differential diagnosis in patients exhibiting symptoms post-transfusion, particularly in populations with high rates of consanguinity. This raises the likelihood that a population will have a high prevalence of a certain human leucocyte antigen. Prevention strategies, such as irradiation of blood products, are essential in reducing the risk of TA-GVHD. In this case, TA-GVHD affected an immunocompetent individual after receiving blood from unrelated donors, highlighting the importance of vigilance.

A conformable fractional finite difference method for modified mathematical modeling of SAR-CoV-2 (COVID-19) disease.

In this research, the ongoing COVID-19 disease by considering the vaccination strategies into mathematical models is discussed. A modified and comprehensive mathematical model that captures the complex relationships between various population compartments, including susceptible (Sα), exposed (Eα), infected (Uα), quarantined (Qα), vaccinated (Vα), and recovered (Rα) individuals. Using conformable derivatives, a system of equations that precisely captures the complex interconnections inside the COVID-19 transmission. The basic reproduction number (R0), which is an essential indicator of disease transmission, is the subject of investigation calculating using the next-generation matrix approach. We also compute the R0 sensitivity indices, which offer important information about the relative influence of various factors on the overall dynamics. Local stability and global stability of R0 have been proved at a disease-free equilibrium point. By designing the finite difference approach of the conformable fractional derivative using the Taylor series. The present methodology provides us highly accurate convergence of the obtained solution. Present research fills research addresses the understanding gap between conceptual frameworks and real-world implementations, demonstrating the vaccination therapy's significant possibilities in the struggle against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Analyzing the effectiveness of Nields constraint and stratification on dynamics of non-Newtonian fluid by executing numerical and machine learning approaches.

Stratified flows are commonly observed in numerous industrial processes. For example, a gas-condensate pipeline typically uses a stratified flow regime. However, this flow arrangement is stable only under a specific set of operating conditions that allows the formation of stratification. In this study, the authors analyzed the flow attributes of Prandtl Eyring liquid past an inclined sheet immersed in a stratified medium. The flow also characterizes the features of the magnetic field along with a first-order chemical reaction. Convective boundary constraints associated with the thermosolutal exchange at the extremity of the domain are also prescribed. The fundamental equations of the study are formulated in dimensional PDEs and converted into dimensionless ODEs via similar variables. The numerical solution of the modelled setup is acquired by executing computations using shooting and RK-4 methods. The intelligent computing paradigm working on the mechanism of the back-propagated Levenberg-Marquardt strategy is also capitalized to forecast the behavior of related physical quantities. Graphs and tables are drawn to elaborate the impression of pertinent factors on flow distributions. It is perceived that the momentum profile diminishes with the magnetic field effect, whereas the opposite behavior is observed for the skin friction coefficient. The thermal and concentration distributions were found to dominate in the absence of stratification. Consideration of convective heating and concentration tends to elevate thermal and mass distributions.

Effects of Different Photoperiods during Incubation on Post-Hatch Broiler Performance and Stress Response.

This study evaluated the subsequent effect of photoperiods during incubation on post-hatch growth and stress response of commercial broiler chickens. A total of 875 Ross 308 broiler breeder (48 weeks of age) eggs were hatched using different durations (0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 h a day) of dichromatic light [green and red (495 to 750 nm); 2700 K; 250 lux; SUNJIE; China] throughout the whole period of incubation. A total of 50 0-day-old hatched straight run broiler chicks from each photoperiod during incubation were used to evaluate subsequent growth performance (feed intake, body weight, and feed conversion ratio); stress parameters (physical asymmetry, tonic immobility, and vocalization,); welfare traits (feather score and gait score); carcass traits (live weight, dressed weight, carcass yield, liver weight, gizzard weight, heart weight, abdominal fat weight, breast weight, and leg weight); and serum chemistry (globulin, total protein, cholesterol, glucose, and uric acid). There were no influences of photoperiod during incubation on post-hatch growth, stress parameters, welfare, and carcass traits. Heart yield was higher in birds incubated under 20 h light than in those from the 16 h light group. Incubation under different lighting durations also altered blood biochemical profile but did not influence serum globulin and cholesterol levels. It was concluded that under experimental conditions, incubation of broiler eggs under different lighting durations did not impact subsequent post-hatch performance (21-35 d).

Boron toxicity in plants: understanding mechanisms and developing coping strategies; a review.

KEY MESSAGE: Boron is essential for plants, but excess can induce toxicity. Boron (B) is a vital micronutrient for plants, but excess B can induce toxicity symptoms and reduce crop yields. B bioavailability depends on soil properties, including clay type, pH, and organic matter content. Symptoms of B toxicity include reduced shoot and root growth, leaf chlorosis and necrosis, impaired photosynthesis, and disrupted pollen development. This review paper examines the current knowledge on B toxicity mechanisms, tolerance strategies, and management approaches in plants. This review covers (1) factors affecting B bioavailability; (2) toxicity symptoms in plants; (3) uptake, transport, and detoxification mechanisms; and (4) strategies. To mitigate toxicity, plants reduce B uptake, activate efflux transporters, compartmentalize B, and enhance antioxidant systems. On the basis of this review, future research should focus on identifying novel tolerance mechanisms, exploring genetic strategies for improved B management, and developing innovative agronomic interventions. These insights will facilitate the breeding and management of crops for enhanced productivity under B toxicity stress.

Evaluating the Correlation Between Prosthodontic Interventions and Chest Infections: A Comprehensive Research Analysis.

BACKGROUND: There is growing interest in the relationship between prosthodontic therapies and outcomes related to systemic health, particularly respiratory infections. Respiratory infections are a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, particularly among vulnerable populations such as immunocompromised individuals. The World Health Organization reports that lower respiratory infections are among the top causes of death worldwide, underscoring the importance of understanding their potential link to prosthodontic procedures. Dental operations, such as prosthodontic therapies, may alter the mouth flora and thus affect respiratory health. OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to investigate the relationship between prosthodontic procedures and chest infections. METHODOLOGY: This research was an observational prospective cohort study conducted from January 2023 to December 2023 at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) located in Islamabad, Pakistan. One hundred thirty individuals in the cohort, who were at least 18 years old, had a range of prosthodontic procedures, such as total edentulous solutions and tooth restoration. Electronic health data were used for participant selection to minimize selection bias and guarantee diverse representation. Comprehensive evaluations of cardiovascular health, immunological state, pulmonary function, and medical histories were all part of the data-gathering process. Structured questionnaires and interviews were also used to get patient feedback. Using SPSS Statistics software (version 27; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), statistical analysis was performed to examine the relationships between prosthodontic treatments and chest infections using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. RESULTS: PIMS hosted 130 participants in this research, which found that 29 patients, or 22% of the total, had chest infections after surgery. Chest infection rates were 15.15% (five out of 33) in the 18-39 age group, 21.21% (14 out of 66) in the 40-59 age group, and 32.26% (10 out of 31) in the 60+ age group, according to age-specific analysis. Complete edentulous solutions (38 cases, 29.23%) and tooth restoration (55 cases, 42.31%) were the most frequently performed procedures. Compared to tooth restoration (n=15; 55.17%), complete edentulous solutions (n=8; 27.59%) had increased infection risks, according to logistic regression. Following prosthodontic procedures, respiratory health measures improved: respiratory rate dropped to 17.8/min, oxygen saturation rose to 98.1%, and frequency of coughing fell to 1.9/day. CONCLUSION: This research highlights the need for careful post-operative respiratory surveillance by elucidating the strong associations between prosthodontic procedures and chest infections.

Molecular characterization and antibiotic susceptibility of Shiga toxin- producing Escherichia coli (STEC) isolated from raw milk of dairy bovines in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

This study investigated the virulence potential and antibiotic susceptibility analysis of non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) serogroups, which are significant cause of food borne diseases. A study collected 800 samples of dairy bovine raw milk through various sources, 500 from milk shops, 200 from dairy farms, 26 from milk collection centers, and 74 from street vendors. Using a standard method, E. coli was detected in 321 out of the 800 samples collected. Out of the 321 E. coli-positive samples isolated, 148 were identified as STEC using selective media, specifically Cefixime Tellurite Sorbitol MacConkey's Agar (CT-SMA). Out of the 148 positive samples, 40 were confirmed as STEC non-O157 strains using multiplex PCR, indicating a prevalence of 5% (40 out of 800 samples). STEC isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and all isolates were resistant to at least one or more antimicrobials tested through the disk diffusion method, revealed high resistance to Amoxicillin 100%, Ceftriaxone 50%, and Penicillin 44.5%, and notably 44% of the strains exhibited Streptomycin resistance, while Enrofloxacin 55%, Florfenicol 50% and Norfloxacin 44%, demonstrated the highest susceptibility. Out of 40 STEC non-O157, twelve were subjected to Multi Locus Sequence Typing (MLST) sequencing through Illumina Inc. MiSeq platform's next-generation sequencing technology, United States. The genome investigation evidenced the persistence of twelve serotypes H4:O82, H30:O9a, H4:O82, H16:O187, H9:O9, H16:O113, H30:O9, H32:O, H32:O, H32, H32, and H38:O187, linked to the potential infections in humans. Conclusion: STEC isolates showed resistance to multiple antimicrobials, raising concerns for both animal and public health due to widespread use of these drugs in treatment and prevention. The study contributes new insights into monitoring STEC in raw milk, emphasizing the critical role of whole genome sequencing (WGS) for genotyping and sequencing diverse isolates. Still a deficiency in understanding STEC pathogenesis mechanisms, ongoing surveillance is crucial for safeguarding human health and enhancing understanding of STEC genetic characteristics.

Cultivating resilience in wheat: mitigating arsenic toxicity with seaweed extract and Azospirillum brasilense.

Arsenic (As) toxicity is a serious hazard to agricultural land due to growing industrialization, which has a negative effect on wheat crop yields. To address this issue, using seaweed extract and Azospirillum brasilense has emerged as an effective strategy for improving yield under stress conditions. However, the combined application of A. brasilense and seaweed extract in wheat crops under As toxicity has not been fully explored. The effectiveness of combining A. brasilense and seaweed extract in reducing As toxicity in wheat production was examined in this study through a 2-year pot experiment with nine treatments. These treatments included a control with no additives and two As concentrations (50 and 70 µM). At 50 and 70 µM, As was tested alone, with seaweed extract, with A. brasilense, and both. Significant results were achieved in reducing As toxicity in wheat crops. Arsenic at 70 µM proved more harmful than at 50 µM. The application of A. brasilense and seaweed extract was more effective in improving crop growth rates, chlorophyll levels, and stomatal conductance. The combined application notably decreased As concentration in wheat plants. It was concluded that applying A. brasilense and seaweed extract not only improves wheat growth but can also improve soil parameters under As toxicity conditions by increasing organic matter contents, boosting nutrient availability, and increasing the production of antioxidant enzymes.

Exploring mixture estimators in stratified random sampling.

Advancements in sensor technology have brought a revolution in data generation. Therefore, the study variable and several linearly related auxiliary variables are recorded due to cost-effectiveness and ease of recording. These auxiliary variables are commonly observed as quantitative and qualitative (attributes) variables and are jointly used to estimate the study variable's population mean using a mixture estimator. For this purpose, this work proposes a family of generalized mixture estimators under stratified sampling to increase efficiency under symmetrical and asymmetrical distributions and study the estimator's behavior for different sample sizes for its convergence to the Normal distribution. It is found that the proposed estimator estimates the population mean of the study variable with more precision than the competitor estimators under Normal, Uniform, Weibull, and Gamma distributions. It is also revealed that the proposed estimator follows the Cauchy distribution when the sample size is less than 35; otherwise, it converges to normality. Furthermore, the implementation of two real-life datasets related to the health and finance sectors is also presented to support the proposed estimator's significance.

Blockage at cross-drainage hydraulic structures - Advances, challenges and opportunities.

Blockage of cross-drainage hydraulic structures is a significant concern in water resources and civil engineering projects, particularly in urban areas experiencing increased debris supply. During storms or floods, debris can accumulate and restrict the flow capacity of these structures, leading to potential failures and adverse impacts on flood levels. While some argue that blockage at culverts is a non-issue, scientific research supports its significance in specific regions. However, in context of rivers and dams, blockage by Large Wood (LW) is an established issue with plenty of research in terms of its hydraulic impacts, dynamics, modeling and scouring impacts. Specifically in Australasia the Australian Rainfall and Runoff (ARR) initiative recognized the importance of studying blockage at culverts and introduced guidelines incorporating it into design and modeling. These guidelines also included post flood visual inspections of structures to understand blockage, however, this approach has been criticized by hydraulic engineers arguing that post flood visuals can not be considered as the representation of the peak floods blockage. Recently, an approach of using visual information to interpret the blockage has been adopted as a new dimension to the problem. This paper, therefore, highlights the advances, challenges, and opportunities in studying blockage, emphasizing the need for data-driven approaches and interdisciplinary collaboration. Understanding and addressing blockage are crucial for ensuring the efficient operation and longevity of hydraulic structures and promoting the resilience of infrastructure systems in the face of evolving environmental conditions.