Search

Objective: The relationship between caregivers and children has importance for the development of children's mental health and wellbeing. This study examines the association between orphaned children's mental health and their relationship with their current caregivers. Method: It used a correlational research design, appropriate to answer the research questions. The participants were 172 Ethiopian orphans aged 12–18 years, living in institutional care settings, who were selected by stratified sampling techniques, based on a proportionate number of orphans of both sexes. Results: The findings of multivariate analysis revealed that the level of trusting relationships between children and caregivers was strongly associated, and significantly contributed to mental health measures, such as depression, social anxiety, and self-esteem. Conclusions: Trusting relationships with caregivers showed a significant contribution to mental health measures (depression, social anxiety, and self-esteem). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ayurveda – a traditional Indian medicinal (TIM) practice advocates a lifestyle regimen utilizing natural products to cure complex ailments. The famous Ayurveda classics, viz. Charak Samhita, Ashtanga Hridayam and Sushruta Samhita, elaborate on various plant and animal products, in which the descriptions are narrated in Sanskrit and often signified through a metaphor. The particulars are empirical and usually lack experimental evidence. Its efficacy needs to be ensured towards the gold standard of biomedical sciences. Indeed, an ordered catalogue on a natural product is quintessential to designing the validation strategies for TIM. We obtained evidence on 60 natural products with a mentioned history in Ayurveda. For this, we manually curated a list of natural products-derived molecules (NDMs). Next, they were sorted into universally accepted chemical identifiers and processed into SDF formats. The 1004 gene targets were identified for 636 NDMs through molecular and reverse docking studies. Subsequently, the functional annotation of differentially expressed genes using KEGG pathways and Gene Ontology analysis unravelled the role of the scrutinized ligands on cell functions. AYUsearch (database) is an attempt to redefine the information embedded in Ayurveda, where the biological role of natural chemical products is decoded through network pharmacology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study's main purpose is to evaluate the planning practices of the Ethiopian Integrated Functional Adult Education (IFAE) programme and to draw lessons that can be learned for future adult education programmes. The study used an explanatory sequential mixed methods research design and involved 224 participants. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews and analysed by descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The study found that IFAE's planning practices are characterised by four shortcomings: insufficient consideration of learner needs assessment; insufficient consideration in defining the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder throughout the programme; inability to determine what actions should be carried out when and how; and inadequate allocation of resources required for the programme. In addition to these limitations, the study identified factors that hinder IFAE planning, including inadequate stakeholder participation, lack of qualified personnel, social and cultural sensitivities, adaptability and scalability problems, and budget constraints. Therefore, addressing these deterrents through the active participation of stakeholders such as educators, adult learners, and government representatives is critical to designing effective adult education programmes. By incorporating these insights, future initiatives can reach more learners and create a better future for all. Finally, a detailed discussion and conclusions are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, terpene nucleosides are relatively rare, with 1-tuberculosinyladenosine (1-TbAd) being an exclusive feature of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The convergence of nucleosides and terpene pathways in the Mtb complex appears to have emerged late in its evolutionary history. 1-TbAd (PDB ID: 3WQK) is a prominent chemical marker for Mtb and may contribute to its virulence-related properties when exported extracellularly. We gathered a comprehensive set of 270 phytochemicals from diverse Ayurvedic texts and treatment traditions. Subsequently, we conducted structure-based molecular docking analyses to identify compounds exhibiting the strongest binding affinity for 1-TbAd, highlighting their potential as drug candidates. These selected compounds were further subjected to an in-vitro growth inhibition assay against the reference strain Mycobacterium tuberculosis h37rv. Among the candidates, Asiaticoside A (ASA) emerged as a promising candidate from the pool of 270 compounds. To assess the impact of ASA on 1-TbAd expression, we employed a PCR-based mRNA expression assay, revealing ASA's ability to downregulate 1-TbAd expression in extensively drug-resistant MTb strains. Remarkably, the conventional drug rifampin showed no such effectiveness in our experiments. We further conducted molecular dynamic simulations to explore the interaction between ASA and 1-TbAd in a cellular-like environment, confirming the stability of their interaction. Also, we predicted ASA's stability toward causing inducing the random mutations in the target gene. With this, we propose a novel target and its modulator to treat extensively drug-resistant MTB. Key points: In-silico screening studies for identifying the hit compound mRNA expression analysis for validation of hit compound Random in-silico mutagenesis and Molecular dynamic simulation studies for evaluating the efficiency of Asiaticoside A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stress is the physiological and psychological response to internal or external stressors. The COVID 19 outbreak caused a sudden shutdown of conventionally designed medical teaching and new digital e‑learning methods emerged which invariably affected the psychology of medical teachers. Aims and Objective: To study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and distance teaching on the psychological status of medical teachers. Materials and Methods: A total of 322 medical teachers were included in the study; an online survey was conducted through a social media platform between April and May 2021. The online consent was obtained from all the participants. Participants were asked to complete a modified validated Google Form questionnaire with perceived stress scale (PSS‑10) which is a classic stress assessment instrument. Results: The PSS‑10 score was significantly high in the medical teachers who were using digital online e‑learning methods first time during this COVID 19 pandemic lockdown. Male teachers reported more stress as compared to female teachers. Conclusion: Higher perceived stress among medical teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic should be acknowledged and strategies to mitigate it should be recommended. Proper counseling services should be available to support the mental health and well-being of faculty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been a rise in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The diagnosis of ASD requires behavioral observation and standardized testing completed by highly trained experts. Early intervention for ASD can begin as early as 1–2 years of age, but ASD diagnoses are not typically made until ages 2–5 years, thus delaying the start of intervention. There is an urgent need for non-invasive biomarkers to detect ASD in infancy. While previous research using physiological recordings has focused on brain-based biomarkers of ASD, this study investigated the potential of electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings as an ASD biomarker in 3–6-month-old infants. We recorded the heart activity of infants at typical and elevated familial likelihood for ASD during naturalistic interactions with objects and caregivers. After obtaining the ECG signals, features such as heart rate variability (HRV) and sympathetic and parasympathetic activities were extracted. Then we evaluated the effectiveness of multiple machine learning classifiers for classifying ASD likelihood. Our findings support our hypothesis that infant ECG signals contain important information about ASD familial likelihood. Amongthe various machine learning algorithms tested, KNN performed best according to sensitivity (0.70 ± 0.117), F1-score (0.689 ± 0.124), precision (0.717 ± 0.128), accuracy (0.70 ± 0.117, p-value = 0.02), and ROC (0.686 ± 0.122, p-value = 0.06). These results suggest that ECG signals contain relevant information about the likelihood of an infant developing ASD. Future studies should consider the potential of information contained in ECG, and other indices of autonomic control, for the development of biomarkers of ASD in infancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bos indicus for human welfare. Ayurveda classics "Sushruta Samhita", "Ashtanga Sangraha" alluded to the therapeutic potential of pristine cow urine as drug or drug ingredients. Compelling evidence exhibits the innumerable medicinal properties of cow urine; accordingly, this elixir can directly treat complex ailments such as leprosy, tuberculosis and fever. Also, the classics narrated many formulations that have utilized cow urine for the preparation of drugs, supplemented to enhance the potency. This practice is more empirical, and only a few pieces of experimental evidence supporting the claim are known. The associated mechanisms are poorly understood and so render its appeal to the limited mass. The study aims to investigate the bio-enhancer-like properties of cow urine toward network pharmacology. For that, 25 medicines having antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, enzyme inhibitors, and anti-inflammatory actions were selected as a reference. Network analysis for twenty chemotypes found in cow urine was carried out. First, through enrichment analysis, the kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes and gene ontology terms were obtained. Second, we performed protein-protein interaction studies to screen more targets. Towards this, the drug-protein and cow urine-protein interaction networks are built separately and processed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Association between lichen planus (LP) and dyslipidaemia and other cardiovascular risk factors has been reported in many studies in the past, with variable results between studies. The aim: this study was undertaken to study the association of lichen planus with dyslipidaemia. Methods: this was a prospective hospital-based case control study conducted over a period of three years, on 105 prospective newly diagnosed male patients of lichen planus and equal number of age and sex matched controls. Fasting serum lipid profile including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) were measured, and comparison done between cases and controls. Results: dyslipidaemia was found in 44 (41.9 %) lichen planus patients (cases) as compared to 28 (26.7 %) controls, the difference being statistically significance (p < 0.020). Triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and VLDL cholesterol were significantly higher in cases than controls, whereas difference in the values of abdominal circumference and body mass index (BMI), although more in cases than controls was not statistically significant. Similarly, HDL-cholesterol values were less in cases than controls, but without statistical significance. Conclusion: dyslipidaemia was more common in lichen planus (LP) patients, as compared to controls, suggesting that LP patients are at a higher risk of developing derangements of serum lipids and should be routinely and regularly monitored for dyslipidaemia and other cardiovascular risk factors, to detect cardiovascular diseases well in time. The result of present study strengthens the evidence of association between LP and dyslipidaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

14‐3‐3 proteins are conserved, dimeric, acidic proteins that regulate multiple cellular pathways. Loss of either 14‐3‐3ε or 14‐3‐3γ leads to centrosome amplification. However, we find that while the knockout of 14‐3‐3ε leads to multipolar mitoses, the knockout of 14‐3‐3γ results in centrosome clustering and pseudo‐bipolar mitoses. 14‐3‐3γ knockouts demonstrate compromised desmosome function and a decrease in keratin levels, leading to decreased cell stiffness and an increase in centrosome clustering. Restoration of desmosome function increased multipolar mitoses, whereas knockdown of either plakoglobin or keratin 5 led to decreased cell stiffness and increased pseudo‐bipolar mitoses. These results suggest that the ability of the desmosome to anchor keratin filaments maintains cell stiffness, thus inhibiting centrosome clustering, and that phenotypes observed upon 14‐3‐3 loss reflect the dysregulation of multiple pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The EPS production from Enterococcus faecium MC-5 was optimized through RSM and purified. • This is the first report of levan production by E. faecium species, which is a fructan-homopolysaccharide. • The EPS was found to be a low molecular weight levan of 24 kDa. • The EPS exhibited excellent in-vitro antioxidant and antibiofilm activity. In the present study, Enterococcus faecium MC-5 isolated from the fish gut was cultured in the MRS broth to produce exopolysaccharide (EPS). The maximum EPS production was optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with three different factors which include sucrose, ammonium nitrate and pH. RSM result predicted that maximum EPS (16.48 g/L) production could be attained by supplementing 30 g/L sucrose and 15 g/L ammonium nitrate in the MRS broth with the initial pH of 6.407. The EPS produced was subjected to purification by column chromatography techniques. Monosaccharide analysis by HPLC confirmed the presence of fructose monomer. The purified EPS MC-5 showed a molecular weight of 24 kDa. The purified EPS was further characterized by FT-IR and NMR which confirmed the presence of β-(2,6) fructofuranoside units and suggested that the EPS MC-5 is a levan-type polysaccharide. Congo red analysis suggested that the EPS MC-5 possesses a triple-helix structure whereas the SEM images showed that the EPS has a porous and globular structure. The EPS was found to be semi-crystalline through XRD analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis showed EPS MC-5 possesses higher thermal stability having a degradation temperature of 338.13 °C. The EPS MC-5 exhibited excellent antioxidant activities and showed promising antibiofilm activity against Listeria monocytogenes , Salmonella enterica , Salmonella typhi and Vibrio anguillarum. The present study is the first report of levan-type EPS production by Enterococcus faecium sp., which has been characterized for its physicochemical and biological properties. These properties associated with EPS MC-5 suggested that it can serve as a potential ingredient or supplement in the food system with significant health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to compare the efficiency of reproductive techniques in detecting early pregnancy in buffaloes. A total of 53 Bulgarian buffaloes were subjected to Fixed Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) program. Ultrasonography was conducted at days 30, 40 and 60, while Pregnancy-Associated Glycoprotein Analysis was performed at days 25, 30, 40, and 60 post-FTAI to detect pregnancy. Images of fetal structures and concentrations of PAG in the serum were determined. PAG analysis revealed 60.38% pregnancy rate (32/53) at day 25 post-FTAI and achieved 100% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and 100% total accuracy as early as day 30, with consistent accuracy and linearly increasing concentration through day 60. whereas, ultrasonography registered only 56.60% (30/53) pregnancy at day 30 with 93.75% sensitivity, 100% specificity and 96.23% total accuracy, while 100% accuracy was achieved only at day 40 post-FTAI. Ultrasonography revealed amniotic fluid as mostly observed at day 30, with conceptus well-detected at day 40, and more detailed structures such as bones and other internal organs at day 60. The present study showed that PAG analysis is more sensitive and accurate in detecting early pregnancy compared with transrectal ultrasonography. Both techniques though were found valuable in generating information during early pregnancy in water buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the plate casting method was successfully used to prepare biocomposite films containing EPS from probiotic Enterococcus faecium MC-5 in combination with PVA and chitosan. The findings demonstrated that EPS was uniformly distributed in the film matrices and significantly improved the physicochemical properties of the resulting composite films. The development of intermolecular connections between the polymers was detected by high tensile strength and low water vapour transmission rate. EPS plays an important role in limiting the passage of UV- and visible light radiations through the films. FT-IR analysis was used to determine the molecular compatibility between the functional groups of the blended films made up of chitosan-EPS and PVA-EPS. The TGA results showed that composite films have a significant degree of thermal stability. The presence of amorphous peaks in the composite film was confirmed by XRD analysis. The EPS blended films displayed a greater antioxidant property than the PVA and chitosan films, as determined by DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities. Interestingly, the EPS-derived films showed enhanced metal chelation activity and strong antibacterial properties against Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. EPS-based composite films performed better than chitosan and PVA films in terms of degradation rate. The overall functional characteristics of the EPS blended films suggested that they could be used as a packaging material to replace or reduce the use of conventional petroleum-based packaging materials. • EPS blended films showed high tensile strength, high elastic at break, low water permeability, and swelling degree. • FE-SEM analysis revealed good miscibility between EPS and chitosan/or PVA which enhances its hydrophobic nature. • Chitosan-EPS and PVA-EPS blended films demonstrated strong antibacterial, antioxidant, and good metal chelation activity. • In terms of degradation rate, EPS-blended films fared more favourably than chitosan and PVA films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia, impacting 6-10% of the global population, is a multifaceted challenge to health and productivity. Chronic insomnia, linked to various health issues, demands comprehensive management. Traditional pharmacotherapies, effective yet raising dependency concerns, contrast with the nonpharmacological alternative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), addressing root causes. This paper explores diagnostic criteria, etiological factors, and patient education in insomnia management, incorporating keywords like behavioral therapy, chronic insomnia, and general sleep disturbances. Discussion emphasizes the evolving landscape, where behavioral interventions, notably CBT-I, demonstrate lasting efficacy, urging a shift towards personalized and comprehensive solutions. Societal consequences, including reduced productivity, underscore the imperative for effective, diversified approaches beyond traditional medications. The intricate challenges of insomnia necessitate a nuanced, individualized approach, with behavioral therapies as pivotal components, aligning with keywords such as non-pharmacological therapy and pharmacological. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia, impacting 6-10% of the global population, is a multifaceted challenge to health and productivity. Chronic insomnia, linked to various health issues, demands comprehensive management. Traditional pharmacotherapies, effective yet raising dependency concerns, contrast with the non-pharmacological alternative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), addressing root causes. This paper explores diagnostic criteria, etiological factors, and patient education in insomnia management, incorporating keywords like behavioral therapy, chronic insomnia, and general sleep disturbances. Discussion emphasizes the evolving landscape, where behavioral interventions, notably CBT-I, demonstrate lasting efficacy, urging a shift towards personalized and comprehensive solutions. Societal consequences, including reduced productivity, underscore the imperative for effective, diversified approaches beyond traditional medications. The intricate challenges of insomnia necessitate a nuanced, individualized approach, with behavioral therapies as pivotal components, aligning with keywords such as non-pharmacological therapy and pharmacological. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective and design: Oxygen tension and biomechanical signals are factors that regulate inflammatory mechanisms in chondrocytes. We examined whether low oxygen tension influenced the cells response to TNFα and dynamic compression. Materials and methods: Chondrocyte/agarose constructs were treated with varying concentrations of TNFα (0.1-100 ng/ml) and cultured at 5 and 21 % oxygen tension for 48 h. In separate experiments, constructs were subjected to dynamic compression (15 %) and treated with TNFα (10 ng/ml) and/or L-NIO (1 mM) at 5 and 21 % oxygen tension using an ex vivo bioreactor for 48 h. Markers for catabolic activity (NO, PGE) and tissue remodelling (GAG, MMPs) were quantified by biochemical assay. ADAMTS-5 and MMP-13 expression were examined by real-time qPCR. 2-way ANOVA and a post hoc Bonferroni-corrected t test were used to analyse data. Results: TNFα dose-dependently increased NO, PGE and MMP activity (all p < 0.001) and induced MMP-13 ( p < 0.05) and ADAMTS-5 gene expression (p p < 0.01) with values greater at 5 % oxygen tension than 21 %. The induction of catabolic mediators by TNFα was reduced by dynamic compression and/or L-NIO (all p < 0.001), with a greater inhibition observed at 5% than 21 %. The stimulation of GAG synthesis by dynamic compression was greater at 21 % than 5 % oxygen tension and this response was reduced with TNFα or reversed with L-NIO. Conclusions: The present findings revealed that TNFα increased production of NO, PGE and MMP activity at 5 % oxygen tension. The effects induced by TNFα were reduced by dynamic compression and/or the NOS inhibitor, linking both types of stimuli to reparative activities. Future therapeutics should develop oxygen-sensitive antagonists which are directed to interfering with the TNFα-induced pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E. faecium MC-5 was isolated and characterized from the gut content of C. carpio and supplemented with a pellet diet at the ratio of 1.0 × 106, 1.0 × 109, and 1.0 × 1012 cfu g–1. Then it was fed to Cirrhinus mrigala for 42 days and the growth performances were evaluated. The growth performance of experimental groups was significantly (P < 0.05) increased than the control group. During 21 and 42 days of the feeding experiment, all the tested immunological parameters such as phagocytic, respiratory burst, lysozyme, acid phosphatase (ACP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), myeloperoxidase activities, and IgM level of experimental groups were significantly (P < 0.05) increased than a control group. After 21 and 42 days of feeding experiment, the fishes were challenged with A. hydrophila, and the relative percentage of survival of experimental groups (PT-I to PT-III) over the control group was recorded from 30.94 to 61.53 and 38.04–77.52 %, respectively. During the challenge experiment, A. hydrophila load was enumerated from dead fish at every 7-day interval. The A. hydrophila load in both the tissues of experimental groups decreased positively from the 7th to 14th day of challenge duration. Overall, the results suggested that the addition of E. faecium MC-5 enhanced the growth performance, immunological response, disease resistance to A. hydrophila, and antioxidant defense system in C. mrigala. Hence these results suggest that E. faecium MC-5 could be used as an advantageous probiotic supplement in aquaculture production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to determine the unique characteristics of Enterococcus faecium MC-5, a probiotic bacteria isolated from the intestine of a fish, Cyprinus carpio specularis , collected from Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir, India. For this, the important valuable probiotic attributes, some functional properties, and safety assessments were analyzed in-vitro for the strain MC-5. The strain E. faecium MC-5 exhibited high resistance to low pH, high bile salt, lysozyme, and phenol. The strain MC-5 showed excellent auto- and co-aggregation properties and displayed remarkable hydrophobicity towards various tested hydrocarbons which suggested that the strain possesses venerable adhesion properties. Apart from these, the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of strain MC-5 exhibited phenomenal antimicrobial activity against the tested pathogens. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) image revealed strain MC-5 finely adhered to human colon adenocarcinoma cells (HCT-15 cells). The strain MC-5 showed high bile salt hydrolase activity and excellent cholesterol removal ability of 70.27%. The intact cells of strain MC-5 also showed strong DPPH scavenging activity. The EPS produced by E. faecium MC-5 inhibited the adhesion of Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella enterica on HCT-15 cells with maximum inhibition rates of 41.82, 40.34, and 55.51%, respectively for displacement assay, which was higher as compared to exclusion (26.06, 26.11, and 39.23%) and competition assays (30.06, 26.7, and 41.20%). Strain MC-5 did not exhibit hemolysis and was also found susceptible to vancomycin and other clinically important antibiotics. When evaluating all the results from the present study, it is propounded that strain MC-5 has enviable probiotic characteristics and thus can be used as bio-protective cultures and/or bio-shield in food and pharmaceutical industries. • Enterococcus faecium MC-5 was isolated from the intestine of a fish, Cyprinus carpio specularis. • The strain E. faecium MC-5 exhibited high resistance to low pH, high bile salt, lysozyme, and phenol. • SEM image revealed that strain MC-5 finely adhered to human colon adenocarcinoma cells (HCT-15 cells). • The strain MC-5 showed high bile salt hydrolase activity and excellent cholesterol removal ability of 70.27%. • Strain MC-5 did not exhibit hemolysis and was also found susceptible to vancomycin and other relevant antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modeling is essential to better understand the generative mechanisms responsible for experimental observations gathered from complex systems. In this work, we are using such an approach to analyze the electrocardiogram (ECG). We present a systematic framework to decompose ECG signals into sums of overlapping lognormal components. We use reinforcement learning to train a deep neural network to estimate the modeling parameters from an ECG recorded in babies from 1 to 24 months of age. We demonstrate this model-driven approach by showing how the extracted parameters vary with age. From the 751,510 PQRST complexes modeled, 82.7% provided a signal-to-noise ratio that was sufficient for further analysis (>5 dB). After correction for multiple tests, 10 of the 24 modeling parameters exhibited statistical significance below the 0.01 threshold, with absolute Kendall rank correlation coefficients in the [0.27, 0.51] range. These results confirm that this model-driven approach can capture sensitive ECG parameters. Due to its physiological interpretability, this approach can provide a window into latent variables which are important for understanding the heart-beating process and its control by the autonomous nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Human population is afflicted with Coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) pandemic for last more than 1 year. Various measures were taken and restrictions were imposed by countries to break the chain of infection and to control this pandemic. Medical education has conventionally been considered challenging. Adding to it; hassles in teaching and fears and uncertainty about COVID‑19 adversely affected the mental health of medical students during this pandemic. Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the mental health of undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional online survey was carried out on medical undergraduate students of Western Rajasthan using Google Form. Informed consent (online) was taken before enrolment for study. Materials and Methods: The students were sent the link to respond to the Google Form, which comprised questions seeking demographic details and items from depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21). Statistical Analysis Used: Frequencies and mean scores of depression, anxiety, and stress components of the DASS-21 scale were computed for the severity of scale according to the guidelines. The sociodemographic reasons predisposing the students to depression, anxiety, and stress were assessed using the Chi‑square test. Statistical significance was set a priori at P < 0.05. Results: About 32.3% of the participants reported moderate‑to‑extremely severe depression, 41.5% reported moderate‑to‑extremely severe anxiety; while 11.6% reported moderate‑to‑extremely severe stress. Participants in the higher age group, younger batch, and urban residents were more likely to have depression. On the other hand, participants in higher age groups and females were more likely to have anxiety. Stress was found statistically higher in females and younger batch students. Conclusion: Students are facing challenging times and need to adapt to newer ways of distance education. Efficient time management, e‑learning skills, following COVID norms, and getting vaccinated timely are the need of the hour for medical students. They should be provided regular psychological counseling and guidance to deal with stressful situations to prevent any untoward incidences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of using authentic materials on English as a foreign language (EFL) learners' reading comprehension, reading motivation, and reading anxiety. In this study, 58 Iranian male EFL learners were selected and randomly assigned to an experimental and a control group. Both groups were pretested through a reading comprehension test and the motivation for reading questionnaire (MRQ) to test their reading comprehension ability and reading motivation. Having participated in a period of 20 sessions in which the experimental group received treatment of exposure to authentic materials and control group to simplified materials, the students took a posttest of the reading comprehension test and completed the MRQ. Additionally, to test students' reading anxiety, the two groups completed Foreign Language Reading Anxiety Scale (FLRAS) in two pre- and posttest assessments. The scores obtained were analyzed using one-way analysis of covariance and paired samples t-tests. The results indicated that authentic materials enhanced Iranian learners' reading motivation and their reading comprehension ability. In addition, the findings suggested that the use of authentic texts significantly improved EFL learner's anxiety in the experimental group. The implications of the study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• EPS production from Weissella confusa MD1 is optimized, purified and characterized. • This is the first reports of Mannan EPS production from Weissella confusa. • The average molecular weight of EPS was 2.909 KDa. • The EPS was thermally stable and showed degradation temperature around 267.74 °C. • The EPS showed promising antioxidant activity and antibiofilm activity. The present study focused on production, optimization and characterization of exopolysaccharide (EPS) from Weissella confusa MD1. The purified EPS MD1 was also evaluated for in vitro biological activities. The maximum yield of EPS (10.07 ± 0.32 g/L) was obtained with optimized culture conditions of 35 °C at pH 6.5 for 36 h with 4% (w/v) galactose and 1% (w/v) ammonium nitrate supplemented in MRS broth. The crude EPS was purified with diethylamino ethanol-Sepharose Fast Flow column and Sephadex-G 75 column. The physicochemical and functional characterization of the EPS was done by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), high-performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), thermo gravimetric and differential scanning calorimetric (TG-DSC) analysis, x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). HPGPC analysis showed molecular weight of purified EPS MD1 as 2.909 KDa. Monosaccharide analysis showed that EPS was a novel mannan with mannose as the only monomeric unit present, suggesting EPS to be a homopolysaccharide containing → 6) α-Man p (1 → linkages. Microstructure studies by SEM showed MD1 EPS has globular and porous structure. The purified EPS MD1 exhibited higher thermal stability having degradation temperature around 267.74 °C with melting enthalpy value (Δ H) of 337.7 J/g. The EPS showed promising antioxidant activities with excellent antibiofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus , Listeria monocytogenes , Salmonella enterica and Salmonella typhi. These striking physicochemical characteristics features and bioactivities of EPS would serve as potential candidate in food processing industry to be used as food adjunct in foods with health benefits. This is the first study reporting a mannan homopolysaccharide from Weissella sp. to be structurally characterized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the effects of superstimulation using follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) followed by gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) on buffalo embryo production by ultrasound‐guided ovum pick‐up (OPU) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Nine Murrah buffaloes were subjected to OPU‐IVF without superstimulation (control). The morphologies of the oocytes collected were evaluated, and oocytes were then submitted to in vitro maturation (IVM). Two days after OPU, same nine buffaloes were treated with twice‐daily injections of FSH for 3 days for superstimulation followed by a GnRH injection. Oocytes were collected by OPU 23–24 hr after the GnRH injection and submitted to IVM (the superstimulated group). The total number of follicles, number of follicles with a diameter > 8 mm, and number of oocytes surrounded by multi‐layered cumulus cells were higher in the superstimulated group than in the control group (p ≤ 0.05). After IVF, the percentages of cleavage and development to blastocysts were higher in the superstimulated group than in the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, superstimulation improved the quality of oocytes and the embryo productivity of OPU‐IVF in river buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Investment in mental health is quite meagre worldwide, including in India. The costs of new interventions must be clarified to ensure the appropriate utilization of available resources. The government of Gujarat implemented QualityRights intervention at six public mental health hospitals. This study was aimed to project the costs of scaling up of the Gujarat QualityRights intervention to understand the additional resources needed for a broader implementation. Methods: Economic costs of the QualityRights intervention were calculated using an ingredients-based approach from the health systems' perspective. Major activities within the QualityRights intervention included assessment visits, meetings, training of trainers, provision of peer support and onsite training. Results: Total costs of implementing the QualityRights intervention varied from Indian Rupees (₹) 0.59 million to ₹ 2.59 million [1United States Dollars (US $) = ₹ 74.132] across six intervention sites at 2020 prices with 69-79 per cent of the cost being time cost. Scaling up the intervention to the entire State of Gujarat would require about two per cent increase in financial investment, or about 7.5 per cent increase in total cost including time costs over and above the costs of usual care for people with mental health conditions in public health facilities across the State. Interpretation & conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that human resources were the major cost contributor of the programme. Given the shortage of trained human resources in the mental health sector, appropriate planning during the scale-up phase of the QualityRights intervention is required to ensure all staff members receive the required training, and the treatment is not compromised during this training phase. As only about two per cent increase in financial cost can improve the quality of mental healthcare significantly, the State government can plan for its scale-up across the State. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizophora mucronata Leaves Polysaccharide (RMLP) was extracted and purified from the mangrove Rhizophora mucronata leaves by anion-exchange and size-exclusion column chromatography. Physicochemical characterization of RMLP was evaluated by spectrtoscopic analysis (FT-IR, 1H & 13C NMR) and RP-HPLC. The molecular weight of RMLP was found to be 2.69 kDa, comprised of monosaccharides such as arabinose, galacturonic acid, galactose, mannose, xylose, rhamnose and glucose. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed the appearance of irregular stacks of crystal blocks with a compact structure of RMLP at 5000x fold magnification. The viscosity analysis revealed the pseudoplastic fluid behavior of the polysaccharide with shear-thinning properties. The result of x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Congo red analysis confirmed the semicrystalline nature of RMLP and has triple-helical conformation. Thermal analysis (TGA and DSC) results proved high thermal stability of the RMLP fraction as its degradation temperature was found to be 310 C. The RMLP showed tremendous antibiofilm activity in a dose-dependent manner against the gram positive and gram negative pathogens. The RMLP showed effective antioxidant ability on DPPH scavenging, superoxide, ABTS, hydroxyl anion radical and Fe2+ chelating activities. These findings indicated that RMLP has promising antioxidant and antibiofilm properties against human pathogens, which makes it a better therapeutic agent in the field of functional foods and medicines. [Display omitted] • RMLP (polysaccharide) from the leaves of Rhizophora mucronata mangrove plant was characterized. • RMLP consists of arabinose, galacturonic acid, and galactose monosaccharides in major amount. • It showed shear thinning behavior in the solution having triple-helix conformation. • RMLP showed semi-crystalline nature and high thermal stability with a degradation temperature of 310 °C. • It shows promising antioxidant activity and antibiofilm activity against tested pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of hirsutism is usually resistant, and from medical management to laser hair reduction, the treatment of hirsutism and its assessment are the most challenging. The aim of the study was to compare the response to treatment by laser hair reduction with long pulsed (1064 nm) Nd:YAG laser in patients of idiopathic hirsutism and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) by clinical and trichoscopic assessment. A hospital-based comparative, observational prospective study was carried out on female patients with hirsutism over a period of 18 months with two groups of participants: fifty women with idiopathic hirsutism (group A) and fifty with PCOS (group B). Laser hair reduction was done with long pulsed (1064 nm) Nd:YAG laser in both groups up to six sessions, 4 weeks apart and followed for 3 months post last laser session. After the sixth session of laser hair reduction, excellent response (> 75% reduction) from baseline was seen in 70% of patients in group A and in 54% of patients in group B. After 3 months of follow-up of the last laser session, it was found that the results persisted in patients with idiopathic cause than in those due to PCOS, seen both clinically and trichoscopically with decrease in hair shaft thickness, hair shaft colour, terminal vs. vellus hair ratio and hair density per cm2. Hirsutism due to idiopathic cause responds better to laser hair reduction with long pulsed (1064 nm) Nd:YAG laser than that due to PCOS, due to underlying hormonal imbalance in the latter group. Follow-up of only up to 3 months after last laser session was done and tricoscan was not done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current scenario, most countries are affected by COVID-19, a pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that has a massive impact on human health. Previous studies showed that some traditionally used medicinal herbs and their combinations showed synergistic anti-viral and anti-inflammatory activity against SARS-CoV-2 type infections. Therefore, the goal of this study is to demonstrate the anti-viral and anti-inflammatory effects of a novel polyherbal formulation, hereinafter referred to as Imusil, on Vero E6 cell lines and Raw 264.7 murine macrophage cells respectively. The Imusil was subjected to identify its chemical characterisations such as UV–Visible spectrum profile, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopic (GC–MS) analysis. FT-IR analysis of Imusil peak values with various functional compounds such as alcohol, esters, aliphatic and carboxylic acids. GC–MS analysis of compounds with totally 87 compounds major chemical compounds were identified, such as 3-(Octanoyloxy) propane-1,2-diyl bis(decanoate), Succinic acid, 2-methylhex-3-yl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ester, Neophytadiene, 3,5,9-Trioxa-4-phosphaheneicosan-1-aminium, 4-hydroxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-10-oxo-7-[(1-oxododecyl)oxy]-, hydroxide, inner salt, 4-oxide, (R)-. The anti-viral activity of Imusil against SARS-CoV-2 was assessed using plaque reduction assay and anti-inflammatory study was conducted on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. The results obtained from the study reveal that Imusil significantly inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cells and the production of inflammatory mediator's cyclooxygenase-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin- 6 were significantly reduced, along with thwarting the significant oxidative stress by preventing the expression of NOX-2 thereby inhibiting the reactive oxygen species formation. Hence, considering the current study as a novel strategy for mediating the COVID-19 associated aliments, inceptive scientific evidence of Imusil promises its potential therapeutic implications against COVID-19 and inflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dentofacial esthetics demands have increased tremendously in the past decade. Psychological impact of unsatisfactory esthetic appearance can manifest in decreased sense of self‐esteem and can negatively affect social and professional interactions. Esthetic awareness of dental patients has extended to include requests of gingival color modification. Gingival pigmentation can be physiological due to ethnic pigmentation or can be a result of various pathological processes. Different surgical modalities, tools and materials have been used in management of gingival pigmentation. This case report is introducing a simple, cost effective, minimally invasive technique of gingival sculpting for the purpose of significantly reducing gingival pigmentation. Case Presentation: A healthy 32‐year‐old male patient presented with a chief complaint of gingival pigmentation that is causing him distress and low self‐esteem. Gingival sculpting technique was used. This simple technique uses a combination of two methods, bur abrasion and scalpel blade with copious irrigation. The procedure resulted in minimal intra and postoperative complications and excellent esthetic results achieved instantly and maintained at 3 months postoperatively. High patient esthetic satisfaction was achieved. Conclusion: Gingival sculpting is minimally invasive procedure that can be performed at any dental office. It renders excellent esthetic results using minimal chair time and down time for the patient. It is well tolerated by the patient with minimal bleeding, postoperative pain, and rapid healing time. Long‐term follow‐up is needed to ensure stability and lack of recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early pregnancy diagnosis following insemination is an important component of the reproductive management program to shorten the calving interval in water buffaloes. A recent method to detect pregnancy in dairy animals is through pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) that are present during implantation and throughout the gestation period. In this study, milk PAG Enzyme-Link Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique was used and run in parallel with blood PAG ELISA for its efficiency in detecting early pregnancy in lactating buffaloes. Fixed Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) was conducted in lactating buffaloes followed by the collection of milk and blood samples post-FTAI. Samples were then assayed using commercial PAG ELISA test kits (IDEXX, USA). Trans-rectal ultrasonography was conducted to confirm pregnancy. Of the 22 inseminated lactating buffaloes, 12 (54 %) were considered pregnant based on PAG concentration in milk on day 26 and similarly in blood on day 25 post-FTAI. These twelve animals were all confirmed pregnant by ultrasonography on day 40 post-FTAI. In addition, variation in PAG expressions in milk samples was observed among animals until at least day 60 of gestation. Essentially, milk PAG ELISA is an accurate and non-invasive approach to detect early pregnancy in lactating buffaloes which can help reduce the calving interval and improve reproduction in water buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of liver disease is increasing year by year and it is recognized as a main health burden across the world. Nowadays, dietary nutraceuticals are found to be very effective in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. The virgin coconut oil and phosphatidylcholine are found to have a wide range of therapeutic efficacy and the most important among them is its hepatoprotective activity. In the present study, we had evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of the novel formulation with the combination of these two which is named as Phoscoliv. For the study, adult Wistar rats were grouped into Normal control, Paracetamol‐treated, and Paracetamol along with Phoscoliv‐treated group. In order to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of the drug, various parameters were analyzed. Data obtained from the study showed that Phoscoliv supplementation were found to significantly boost up the antioxidant status by enhancing the SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH level and thereby inhibit the generation of ROS and also blocked lipid peroxidation, which was confirmed by the reduced level of TBARS. The release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines was also decreased, which was eventually helped to maintain the normal architecture of the liver. Thus, from the overall result of this study reveals that Phoscoliv can be effectively used as a potent and safe hepatoprotective medicine. Practical applications: The over or unwanted usage of synthetic medicine is a serious problem because it can cause so many adverse health effects. Liver‐related disorders are the major side effects of these drugs. Food habits of ancient people dictate that there is no other better medicine than a good food. So, treating a disease with a food or compounds derived from a food item will be more effective. Virgin coconut oil is a type of natural and organic oil, which has the capability of maintaining the body in a healthy state. Likewise, phosphatidylcholines are very important phospholipid nutrients necessary to keep the cells healthy. Both these have the potential to protect and prevent the liver damages. Therefore, the combination of these two can exhibit profound hepatoprotective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has now spread to all corners of the world. It causes severe respiratory syndromes which is one of the leading causes of death. Evidence shows that the novel SARS-CoV-2 has close similarities with other coronaviruses, SARS and MERS. So, SARS-CoV-2 might use the similar mechanisms of these viruses to attack the host cells. The severity of COVID-19 is associated with various factors, one of the major reasons is immune dysregulation or immune suppression. Immunity plays a significant role in maintaining the body in a healthy condition. In order to induce a timely immune response against the invaded pathogens, both innate and adaptive immunity must be in an active state. During the viral infection, there will be an excessive generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines known as cytokine storm and also, the antiviral agents in the body gets inhibited or inactivated through viral mechanisms. Thus, this might be the reason for the transition from mild symptoms to more severe medical conditions which leads to an immediate need for the invention of a new medicine.This review aims to show the host-viral interaction along with immune response, antiviral mechanism and effectiveness of oral low dose cytokines against the virus as a therapeutic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes Mellitus is a common metabolic or endocrine disorder that occurs as a result of insufficient amounts of insulin secretion or defect in the action of insulin produced from pancreatic beta cells. Antioxidant containing food items are very effective in reducing complications that arise due to diabetes, indicating that it may be beneficial for treating metabolic disorders. In this study, we used some essential nutrients enriched with glutathione, named as Glothione (GN), and evaluated the antidiabetic effect of GN in alloxan‐induced diabetic rats. The treatment with GN showed significant reduction in the blood glucose level, HbA1c level, and liver markers like SGOT, SGPT, and ALP and shows increased antioxidant status and decreased inflammatory markers. Histopathological analysis of pancreas and liver tissue showed that there were no abnormalities in the rat after the administration of GN. Thus, antioxidant‐enriched formulation of GN can be used as a potent hypoglycaemic drug. Practical applications: Glothione is a glutathione‐enriched formulation that contains essential nutrients required for the normal functioning of the body. Recent trends in lifestyle and food habits have been noted to cause health risks and subject the body through physical and physiological stress––hence the importance of antioxidant‐rich foods. Antioxidants are capable of boosting metabolism and other physiological processes. Thus, the consumption of GN can enhance the antioxidant status within the body. GN does not contain any chemical ingredients so it will not cause any side effects. It has a strong antidiabetic effect and is also able to control a number of diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fixed Time Artificial insemination (FTAI) is performed following induction of synchronous ovulation among cows and has been attempted with two studies to improve AI efficiency in water buffaloes. Study 1 validated the efficacy of original FTAI protocols. Non-pregnant animals were randomly allotted into: Protocol A: OVSYNCH, receiving 1st Gonadotropin--Releasing Hormone (GnRH) injection (day 0), Prostaglandin (day 7), 2nd GnRH (day 9), and timed AI (day 10). Protocol B: CIDR- SYNCH; the procedure is similar with A except that Controlled-Internal-Drug- Release (CIDR) insertion was done with 1st GnRH injection. Study 2 compared two ovulatory hormones: GnRH and human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) to optimize the efficiency of CIDR-SYNCH protocol. Animals were assigned into A: CIDR-SYNCH-GnRH or B: CIDR-SYNCH-hCG. Follicular growth was monitored during treatment and Pregnancy diagnosis was performed at day 35 post-AI by ultrasonography. Study 1 yielded conception rate of 31.63% for OVSYNCH and 43.06% for CIRD- SYNCH (P<0.05). In Study 2, pregnancy rate of 58.04% was achieved with CIDR- SYNCH-hCG and was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that of CIDR-SYNCH-GnRH (43.06%). In sum, pregnancy with OVSYNCH can be improved with CIDR-SYNCH and the substitution of GnRH with hCG in CIDR-SYNCH protocol resulted in highest pregnancy and is now widely used in FTAI in water buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the probiotic potential of Weissella confusa MD1 and Weissella cibaria MD2 isolated from a fermented batter. They possessed characters like high survivability in gastrointestinal conditions, tolerance towards lysozyme and phenol. Both strains exhibited strong auto-aggregation property and co-aggregation with Listeria monocytogenes. The adhesion behavior towards intestinal epithelial cells (HT-29 cells) was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both strains MD1 and MD2 exhibited antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogens like Escherichia coli , Salmonella enterica , Listeria monocytogenes , Salmonella typhi and Staphyloccocus aureus. They also showed high bile salt hydrolase activity towards sodium taurocholate and bile salt mixture. Strain MD1 and MD2 demonstrated a tremendous reduction in the cholesterol by 67.11% and 78%, respectively. The intact cells of both strains showed strong antioxidant activity by scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical and inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation. The formation of biofilm was demonstrated by using atomic force microscopy (AFM) on the glass cover. Both strains showed sensitivity towards conventionally used antibiotics and no hemolytic activity. The results from the study suggested that Weissella confusa MD1 and Weissella cibaria MD2 have exemplary technological properties that can be implemented in the pharmaceutical and food industry. • Probiotic properties of W. confusa MD1 and W. cibaria MD2 were evaluated. • SEM images revealed phenomenal adhesion behavior towards HT-29 cells. • Both strains showed antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogens. • Intact cells of both strains possess high antioxidant property. • Both strains were regarded safe after safety evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]