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Background: Lysophosphatidylethanolamines (lyso-PEs) are the partial hydrolysis products of phosphatidylethanolamine. Although lyso-PEs are important biomarkers in various diseases, their determination is limited by the lack of simple and efficient quantification methods. This study aims to develop an improved quantitative method for the determination of lyso-PEs and its application to an epidemiological study. Methods: Single reaction monitoring channels by collision-induced dissociation for seven lyso-PEs were established using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Plasma lyso-PEs were extracted with a single-phase method using an isotopically labelled internal standard for quantification. The proposed method was adopted to define lyso-PEs in plasma samples of children aged 9–12 years living in Sapporo, Japan. Results: The limit of detection and limit of quantification for each lyso-PE ranged between 0.001–0.015 and 0.002–0.031 pmol/ μ L, respectively. Recoveries were found to be > 91% for all the species. The analysis results of children's plasma showed that the total lyso-PE concentrations in boys (n = 181) and girls (n = 161) were 11.53 and 11.00 pmol/ μ L (median), respectively. Participants were further classified by the percentage of overweight and subgrouped as underweight (n = 12), normal range (n = 292), or overweight (n = 38). Interestingly, the reduction of lyso-PE 16:0 and increased lyso-PE 22:6 were observed in overweight children compared with normal range (Fold change: 0.909 and 1.174, respectively). Conclusions: This study successfully established a simple quantitative method to determine lyso-PE concentrations. Furthermore, our method revealed the possible relation between plasma lyso-PEs and overweight status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has emerged as a global health threat and has rapidly spread worldwide. Significant changes in the lipid profile before and after COVID‐19 confirmed the significance of lipid metabolism in regulating the response to viral infection. Therefore, understanding the role of lipid metabolism may facilitate the development of new therapeutics for COVID‐19. Owing to their high sensitivity and accuracy, mass spectrometry (MS)‐based methods are widely used for rapidly identifying and quantifying of thousands of lipid species present in a small amount of sample. To enhance the capabilities of MS for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of lipids, different platforms have been combined to cover a wide range of lipidomes with high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Currently, MS‐based technologies are being established as efficient methods for discovering potential diagnostic biomarkers for COVID‐19 and related diseases. As the lipidome of the host cell is drastically affected by the viral replication process, investigating lipid profile alterations in patients with COVID‐19 and targeting lipid metabolism pathways are considered to be crucial steps in host‐directed drug targeting to develop better therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes various MS‐based strategies that have been developed for lipidomic analyzes and biomarker discoveries to combat COVID‐19 by integrating various other potential approaches using different human samples. Furthermore, this review discusses the challenges in using MS technologies and future perspectives in terms of drug discovery and diagnosis of COVID‐19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is the second most important staple food crop in the world after wheat. For maize hybrid seed production, a prominent step is detasseling in the female parent, which is laborious, time consuming, and increases the hybrid seed cost by 15 to 20 percent. Hence, to overcome this problem, exploitation of male sterility in maize crops gains special significance. In this direction, the research was conducted to transfer cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS-C) from a CMS donor (VL192114) into the female parents (CAL1514 and ZL153493) of heat- and drought-resilient maize hybrids (RCRMH-2 and RCRMH-3) by a marker-assisted backcross scheme. The present research used Diversity Array Technology (DArTag) and Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP)-based single-nucleotide polymorphic markers for background selection in backcross populations. Genome recovery percentage ranged from 64.25 to 72.70, 78.94 to 87.69 and 82.28 to 90.77 percent in the BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC3F1 population, respectively, in the CAL1514 population, while it was 63.47 to 73.55, 78.16 to 88.76 and 83.96 to 91.81 percent in the BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC3F1 population, respectively, in the ZL153493 population. When the near-isogenic CMS lines of both populations are compared for agro-morphological traits with their recurrent parents, the agronomic qualities of recurrent parents, as well as the attributes of distinctness, uniformity and stability, are shown. Therefore, male sterility-transferred, female lines of RCRMH-2 and RCRMH-3 maize hybrids can be used directly to produce maize hybrid seed without the need of the detasseling process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kokum (Garcinia indica (Thouars) Choisy) is an evergreen fruit tree, naturally distributed in the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats in India, displaying polygamous characteristics. The economic significance of this tree is attributed to its fruit rind rich in pharmaceutical compounds such as hydroxy citric acid, garcinol and anthocyanin. The fruit rind is commonly utilised to create refreshing beverages. The demand for both kokum fruit and its derived products is on the rise within the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. To facilitate genetic enhancement, agronomic management and commercial cultivation, a comprehensive understanding of the periodic growth of kokum is essential. Presently, the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt and Chemische Industrie (BBCH) phenological scale stands as the most credible and widely adopted framework. In this research endeavour, specific standard codes and descriptions were established for various growth stages of kokum. Utilising an extended BBCH scale ranging from 0 to 9, we delineated seven principal growth stages in kokum: Stage 0 for vegetative bud development, Stage 1 for leaf development, Stage 3 for shoot growth, Stage 5 for reproductive bud development, Stage 6 for flowering, Stage 7 for fruit development and Stage 8 for fruit maturity. Secondary stages were assigned based on observed growth event percentages. The duration and seasonal characteristics of each principal and secondary growth stage were meticulously recorded. This newly developed phenological scale serves as a versatile tool applicable to researchers, breeders and industrialists for enhancing agricultural production and effective scientific communication in the kokum research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks commonly occur due to trauma or surgical procedures. Here we review CSF leak diagnosis and management in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). A systematic review of the CSF leak management in LMICs was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase and Web of Science databases according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eighteen articles with 3,596 patients (mean age = 39.58 years) were analyzed. Of these patients, 31.37% (1,128/3,596) were reported to have developed cranial CSF leaks. The predominant presentation of CSF leak included symptoms of rhinorrhea, headache, meningitis, and visual impairment. The primary etiology of CSF leak was complications from endoscopic surgery (482 patients), followed by spontaneous origin (46 patients), craniotomy (44 cases), and trauma from motor vehicle accidents (43 cases). Computed tomography (CT) scans (10 retrospective, 15 case, and 1 comparative study) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (6 retrospective, 11 case, and 2 comparative studies) were identified as the most utilized diagnostic modalities. The endoscopic endonasal technique emerged as the predominant surgical approach for managing CSF leak (5 retrospective, 13 case, and 1 comparative study). Moreover, both acellular dermal matrix and turbinate flaps demonstrated comparable repair rates in the management of CSF rhinorrhea (95.23% and 96.00%, respectively). Additionally, porcine-derived fibrin sealant exhibited enhanced success rates for repairs in craniotomies, increasing from 49.21% to 97.81%. This study demonstrates progress in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks within LMICs, including the noteworthy advancement from traditional microscope utilization to the endoscopic endonasal technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Predicting the breeding potential of crosses in terms traits means, genetic variability and frequency of desirable transgressive segregants in early segregating generations is crucial in breeding programme. Therefore, an experiment was carried out to assess breeding potential of crosses involved parents with varying overall GCA status and contrasting responses to powdery mildew disease (PMD) in blackgram. Methods: Total of 40 F1s developed by following Line × Tester design; among, nine crosses were selected based on gca status of parents and responses to PMD. F1, F2 and F3 along with parents of six and three crosses were evaluated for 10 productivity per se traits and responses to PMD separately during kharif, 2016 and rabi, 2016-17 respectively. The traits means, absolute and standardized range, PCV and frequency of transgressive segregants in F2 and F3 were compared to assess the breeding potential of the crosses. Result: F2 and F3 generations derived from six crosses (for productivity traits) and three crosses (for PDI) were differed for means, absolute and standardized range, PCV and the frequency of transgressive segregants. This is may be due to the contribution of diverse genes from female and male parent. Though considerable number of transgressive segregants were also identified in F2 and F3 of all the crosses, high frequency of desirable transgressive segregants was observed in crosses involved parents with overall high GCA status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of gamma radiation on the mechanical characteristics of carbon/Kevlar hybrid epoxy composites used in aerospace applications. Composites consisting of carbon (CCCC), Kevlar (KKKK), and hybrid (CKCK) fabrics with varied stacking sequences were produced using a hand lay-up technique. These composites were then exposed to different dosages of gamma radiation (1 kGy, 3 kGy, and 5 kGy). A thorough mechanical analysis was conducted, encompassing tests for tensile strength, flexural strength, impact resistance, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), hardness, and water absorption. The carbon composite that was not exposed to radiation demonstrated the maximum tensile strength, measuring 246.28 MPa. Additionally, it exhibited a flexural strength of 787.72 MPa and an interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of 9.75 MPa. After being exposed to a radiation dose of 5 kGy, the values decreased to 215.36 MPa, 578.49 MPa, and 8.71 MPa, respectively. Among the materials that were examined, the hybrid composite had the highest impact strength of 0.0537 J/mm2. The results of dynamic mechanical analysis showed a reduction in the storage modulus from 11762.1 MPa to 10338.7 MPa, and a decrease in the glass transition temperature from 113.05 °C to 107.7 °C following exposure to 5 kGy of radiation. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of fractured surfaces revealed a transition from a ductile to a brittle fracture behaviour as the radiation doses increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obstructed urine flow is known to cause structural and functional kidney damage leading to renal fibrosis. However, limited information is available on the change in kidney lipids during urinary tract obstruction. In this study, we investigated the change in lipidome in a mouse model with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The establishment of the UUO model was confirmed by histopathological examination using transmission electron microscopy. Untargeted liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry was carried out over a time course of 4 and 7 days. Compared to the sham control, the UUO kidney at 7 days showed dilatation of the renal tubule with loss of brush borders and thickening of the capillary endothelium. In the kidney lipidomes obtained from the UUO 7 days group compared to the control, a significant decrease of ceramide, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine, lysophospholipids, and phosphatidylethanolamine was observed, whereas cholesteryl esters, free fatty acids, phosphatidylglycerol, and cardiolipins were significantly increased. The present study revealed the disturbed lipid metabolism in the UUO model, which may provide a clue to potential lipid pathways and therapeutic targets for the early stage of renal fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A non-Newtonian liquid motion across a stretchable surface is relevant to various industrial applications, including extruding plastic sheets and stretching plastic films. In connection with this, the impact of endothermic and exothermic chemical reactions on the flow of rate-type liquid via an oscillatory stretching sheet in the presence of permeable media with the Maxwell liquid model is elucidated in the present study. Scientists and engineers may enhance the efficiency of chemical reactions or heat transmission by optimising system flow and investigating the effect of reactions on flow dynamics. The present study's governing partial differential equations (PDEs) are transformed into their non-dimensional form using similarity variables. The resulting equations are numerically solved using the finite difference method (FDM). Outcomes disclose that the temperature profile declines as the activation energy and unsteadiness parameters increase. The influence of the Maxwell and unsteadiness parameters on the fluid's velocity with respect to time is represented. The rise in the values of chemical reaction parameter upsurges the thermal profile. As the activation energy and unsteadiness parameters upsurge, the thermal profile declines. As the chemical reaction parameter and the ratio of oscillation frequency to stretching rate values rise, the concentration profile falls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hunt for sustainable and efficient energy harvesting and storage devices has driven significant interest in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) as potential alternatives to traditional batteries for powering electronic devices. However, the development of biodegradable TENGs remains a formidable challenge. This study presents the preparation of a tribopositive material entirely composed of biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) polymer enhanced with CoFe2O4 (CF) nanoparticles. The CF nanoparticles, synthesized via the combustion method, were incorporated into the PBAT matrix through solvent casting to form films with varied filler content (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1 g). The CF nanoparticles structural, surface, and electrical properties were characterized using XRD and FTIR spectroscopy. At the same time, the morphology of the nanomaterials and their composites was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Specifically, the 0.8 g PBAT-CF TENG demonstrated superior performance, achieving an output voltage of 45.45 V and a current of 4.5 µA. Subsequent electrical studies, including charging commercial capacitors (1.0 to 47 μF) and powering LEDs and calculators, underscored the device's efficiency. The PBAT-CF TENG also effectively generated voltage and current signals from physical activities like walking and jumping. This innovative approach highlights the potential for biodegradable, high-performing, self-powered flexible electronics, and wearable devices, paving the way for sustainable technological advancements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article from the Indian Dermatology Online Journal provides a comprehensive review of the cutaneous manifestations associated with cerebrovascular accidents (CVA). Various skin conditions such as Anti Phospholipid Antibody Syndrome, Sneddon syndrome, vasculitis, Scleromyxedema, and others are discussed in relation to their direct or indirect association with CVA. Additionally, the article highlights the impact of certain drugs used in CVA treatment on the skin, such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and warfarin necrosis. The review aims to fill the gap in literature regarding the dermatological features of stroke. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Dermoscopy of mucosa is known as mucoscopy. Mucoscopy can aid in delineating minute aspects of mucosal lesions and will guide in the differentiation of similar-looking lesions. To date, there are only a few studies on mucoscopy of genital dermatoses especially from India. Aim and Objectives: The study aims to describe mucoscopic features and correlate histopathologically in various genital mucosal diseases. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary care center in Central India after IHEC approval between October 2020 and April 2022, and the sampling technique was based on a convenience purposive method. Any genital mucosal diseases were included in patients above 18 years of age. Sexually transmitted diseases in general were excluded, however, warts and molluscum contagiosum were included. All patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were examined after proper informed consent, and the clinical images were photographed using iPhone 11. Dermoscopic images were taken using a DermLite DL4 dermoscope in polarized mode at 10X magnification. Results: A total of 206 patients were recruited, and mucoscopy features were analyzed. Dermoscopic findings of physiological conditions such as vestibular papillomatosis, pearly penile papules, and Fordyce spots were evaluated. Inflammatory conditions such as lichen planus, pemphigus, and psoriasis were analyzed. Mucoscopy of lichen sclerosus showed white structureless areas (100%), follicular plugs (35%), as well as dotted and linear vessels (80%). Circinate balanitis revealed regular red dotted vessels (100%), coalescing pustules in annular and polycyclic patterns (90%). Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis showed ulceration, serpentine, looped vessels, white structureless area, and yellow-brown crust in a pink background. Limitations: In our study, because of the inclusion of various diseases, sample size was inadequate, biopsies were not performed in all cases, and variations in mucoscopic features in patients who are already on therapy could not be assessed. Haziness while capturing pictures because of mist formation was hindering the quality of pictures. As patients with premalignant and malignant cases were less, the predicting features for malignant transformation or pathognomoniic signs could not be assessed. Conclusion: Various dermoscopies have been studied extensively, but the mucoscopy is still a gray area. The results of this study revealed the dermoscopic features of various genital disorders and histopathological correlation in few cases. However, biopsy was not performed in all mucosal disorders; hence, conclusive correlation could not be extrapolated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-operative vision loss (POVL) following spine surgery in the prone position is rare but has been documented. Various pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed as potential causes, with associated risk factors identified. This article documents an interesting case of a patient who presented with Chiari 1 malformation and developed central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) postoperatively. We present the case of a 27-year-old male who underwent foramen magnum decompression with C1–C2 fusion for Chiari I malformation, and experienced sudden vision loss in his left eye postoperatively, attributed to CRAO. Despite stable vital signs and minimal blood loss during surgery, the patient developed CRAO after awakening from anesthesia. Prompt treatment was initiated, resulting in partial recovery of vision. However, challenges in treating CRAO persisted, highlighting the importance of meticulous patient positioning during prone surgeries to prevent such complications. Early detection and intervention are crucial for the potential reversibility of visual loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this present work we have studied the physical, structural, thermal, and optical properties of a new set of alkali zinc boro tellurite glasses doped europium trioxide prepared using the melt-quenching method. X-ray diffraction technique (XRD) and SEM were used to determine the non-crystalline property and microstructure property of the prepared samples. By using MAS-NMR spectroscopy and FTIR spectroscopy, the structural changes in the glasses were revealed. The physical properties were described by considering the densities of glass samples and hence molar volume, polaron radius, and oxygen packing density were measured. Thermal stability of glasses was perceived by performing DSC analysis and values ranges from 145 to 190 °C. Using UV–visible absorption spectra, it was possible to calculate the optical properties. The highest refractive index is found as 2.275 for glass AZBTE0 and the lowest is 2.241 for AZBTE5 glass. The ionic behaviour of the glasses was determined by electronegativity and values lie in the range of 1.51 to 1.688. The outcomes of the physical, thermal, and optical characteristics of glasses are intended for potential uses in optical switching and Europium doped fibre amplifier applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) exemplifies a form of diabetes mellitus that selectively affects the brain. In this study we evaluated serum markers and genes linked to AD and investigated the possible link between AD and diabetes. We measured the serum levels of insulin, lactate, citrulline, argininosuccinate, homocitrulline, and AD-associated lipids (2,4-dihydroxybutanoic acid and sphinganine-1-phosphate). We used semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to determine the relative gene expression of Rest, Bace1, and Rtn3 in the brain. Western blotting was used to determine the relative protein expression of REST, BACE1, and RTN3 in the brain. Serum from diabetic rats showed significantly higher levels of citrulline, homocitrulline, lactate, 2,4-dihydroxybutanoic acid, and sphinganine-1-phosphate, but lower levels of argininosuccinate and insulin compared with serum from control rats. At the gene level, Bace1 and Rest were significantly increased, whereas Rtn3 was considerably reduced in diabetic compared with control rat brains. At the protein level, BACE1 and RTN3 were significantly increased whereas REST was significantly reduced in diabetic compared with control rat brains. These findings indicate that hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in the brain may be the common element that connects urate turnover and alterations in neural regulatory genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research proposes a novel sustainable composite using basalt (B), hemp (H) and polyurethane rubber (Pu) reinforced in nano clay functionalised epoxy matrix for sacrificial structural applications prone to low‐velocity impact (LVI). To this end, symmetric and asymmetric laminates such as HHHH, BBBB, BHHB, BHPuHB, BBPuHH and BPuBPuHPuH are fabricated using compression molding techniques and subjected to LVI at three different impact energies of 19.66, 39.39, and 59.05 J. The hemp fibers were treated with NaOH solution before fabrication. Material characterization such as X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and morphological studies has been carried out. The impact and post‐impact properties of the proposed composites are experimentally evaluated and validated with the finite element (FE) results. The effect on the residual tensile strength degradation of laminates at different interlayers and energy levels is also investigated using the Caprino analytical model. The barely visible impact damages (BVID) are investigated through non‐destructive dye‐penetration tests, which facilitate easy identification of the prominent LVI damages like "Plateau" and "Cliff‐drop" impressions. Based on the impact energy absorption and residual tensile strength, proposed laminates followed BHPuHB > BBBB > BHHB > HHHH. The experimentation suggests that Polyurethane core laminates support maximum impact energy absorption by favoring a structural change in interlayers. Also, the residual tensile strength decreases as impact velocity increases. Highlights: Low‐velocity impact behavior of sustainable composites is experimented.Basalt, hemp and polyurethane rubber are reinforced in nano clay epoxy matrix.A FE framework to validate the experimentation is proposed.Dye penetrant NDT is adopted to investigate the damages.Morphological studies are conducted to understand LVI responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in computer vision and deep learning algorithms have yielded intriguing results. It can perform tasks previously requiring human eyes and brains. Semantic video segmentation for autonomous cars is difficult due to the high cost, low latency, and performance requirements of convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Deep learning architectures like SegNet and FlowNet 2.0 on the Cambridge-driving labeled video database (CamVid) dataset enable low-latency pixel-wise semantic segmentation of video features. Because it uses SegNet and FlowNet topologies, it is ideal for practical applications. The decision network chooses an optical flow or segmentation network for an image frame based on the expected confidence score. Combining this decision-making method with adaptive scheduling of the key frame approach can speed up the process. ResNet50 SegNet has a “54.27%” mean intersection over union (MIoU) and a “19.57” average FPS. In addition to decision network and adaptive key frame sequencing, FlowNet2.0 increased graphics processing unit (GPU) frame processing per second to “30.19” with a MIoU of “47.65%”. The GPU is used “47.65%” of the time. This performance gain illustrates that the video semantic segmentation network is faster without sacrificing quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

misophonia is a sound tolerance disorder which disturbs the emotions of people when exposed to specific triggers. Studies have shown that visual triggers alone can cause misophonia in affected individuals in the absence of auditory triggers. It is also said to affect people's quality of lives affecting social life, work life and personal relationships. Different studies on misophonia indicate that it is prevalent between 5% and 34.67%. These studies help us understand the existence of misophonia across different parts of the world. Studies report factors like gender, age, socioeconomic status, etc. play significant roles in impacting the prevalence of disorder. This study aims to review 12 such English articles available online, to get a comprehensive set of data to make it easy for readers and researchers. Results of the review indicate that not many countries have their prevalence rates established which could be indicating the lack of awareness. In countries that have carried out the study, clinically significant misophonia exists in many individuals with various degrees with multiple factors affecting it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors present a case of meningoencephalitis caused by Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection, which initially manifested as orbital myositis followed by rapid progression to orbital apex syndrome, meningoencephalitis and death. There was no development of a cutaneous rash. An orbital biopsy demonstrated VZV infection, which was confirmed on a lumbar puncture. In this case, VZV meningoencephalitis was not responsive to steroid or antiviral therapy. This case highlights an atypical presentation of VZV with orbital myositis preceding intracranial involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPhenomenon: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated an abrupt shift to online medical education, disrupting learning across knowledge, skills, and social connections. Post-pandemic, medical schools must evaluate how these disruptions shaped student experiences to optimize the return to in-person learning. Approach: This cross-sectional qualitative study explored medical students’ perceptions of their learning environment during the post-pandemic reintegration period in Oman. Fifty-four preclinical and clinical students participated in six focus group interviews. Content analysis identified key topics characterizing students’ perceptions of change and change processes in the post-pandemic learning environment. The panarchy framework, developed to characterize complex adaptive systems in nature, was used to frame the results. Findings: The return to in-person environments presented a mix of renewed connectivity, involving collaborative benefits alongside transitional adjustment strains. Five major topics characterizing student perceptions of change and change processes in their post-pandemic learning environment were identified: learning skills, developing clinical competence, faculty interactions, physical atmosphere, and social connections. Managing academic schedules and cognitive load as the learning environment opened challenged students’ learning skills. Learners valued a renewed opportunity for interactive application of knowledge through collaboration, patient contact, and empathy skill-building to feel prepared for future practice. Returning to in-person instruction renewed a sense of community and peer support networks disrupted by pandemic isolation. Some students continued to struggle with study-life imbalance and felt ill-equipped to handle post-pandemic demands. Improved access to student support and wellness services was emphasized to ease transitional stresses. Students defined an ideal learning climate as supportive, active, personalized, relevant, challenging, accessible, and collaborative. Insights: While pandemic disruptions posed challenges, they provide opportunities to strengthen the educational system’s resilience moving forward. Our findings highlight an opportunity for medical educators and learners to capitalize on the innovations that emerged during this period, integrating technology with interactive learning activities and reconnecting students with the core values of the medical profession. Applying the panarchy framework to frame this adaptive process could enable the tracking of multi-level interactions within the medical education environment and the evaluation of interventions targeted at identified areas of concern. Further exploration to achieve complete mapping of specific environmental domains onto the panarchical cycles merits future investigation to build integrated resilience frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current article, we examine Lorentzian para-Kenmotsu (shortly, LP-Kenmotsu) manifolds with regard to the generalized symmetric metric connection ∇ G of type (α , β) . First, we obtain the expressions for curvature tensor, Ricci tensor and scalar curvature of an LP-Kenmotsu manifold with regard to the connection ∇ G . Next, we analyze LP-Kenmotsu manifolds equipped with the connection ∇ G that are locally symmetric, Ricci semi-symmetric, and φ -Ricci symmetric and also demonstrated that in all these situations the manifold is an Einstein one with regard to the connection ∇ G . Moreover, we obtain some conclusions about projectively flat, projectively semi-symmetric and φ -projectively flat LP-Kenmotsu manifolds concerning the connection ∇ G along with several consequences through corollaries. Ultimately, we provide a 5-dimensional LP-Kenmotsu manifold example to validate the derived expressions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) using sustainable materials addresses the global electronic waste issue. This research focuses on fabricating a TENG device with biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) as the tribopositive material and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as the tribonegative material. ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles are incorporated into the PLA matrix to enhance surface charge density and synthesised via a simple combustion method. PLA-ZnFe2O4 composite films were prepared by solvent casting with varying nanofiller content (0.25, 0.45, 0.65, and 0.85 g). Prepared composites were characterised by Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) for crystalline nature and phase purity, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) for vibrational analysis, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology. The inclusion of ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles improves TENG output performance, with a maximum output voltage of 18.4 V and a current of 1.57 µA observed for a PLA (poly(lactic acid)) composite with 39.39% nanoparticle content. Electrical studies on the optimised device show successful charging of various capacitors and powering 20 LEDs and a calculator. Body movements like walking and jumping were also tested to measure voltage and current outputs. These findings highlight new possibilities for developing smart, self-powered electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to comprehend the dynamics of neurodegenerative disease using a mathematical model of fractional-order yeast prions. In the context of the Caputo fractional derivative, we here study and examine the solution of this model using the Predictor–Corrector approach. An analysis has been conducted on the existence and uniqueness of the selected model. Also, we examined the model's stability and the existence of equilibrium points. With the purpose of analyzing the dynamics of the Sup35 monomer and Sup35 prion population, we displayed the graphs to show the obtained solutions over time. Graphical simulations show that the behaviour of the populations can change based on fractional orders and threshold parameter values. This work may present a good example of how biological theories and data can be better understood via mathematical modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study looks at how a kinematic chain exercise regimen that targets the lower, core, and upper body affects university shot put participants' shoulder muscle strength and throwing efficiency. This study fills an apparent research void on shot put training approaches by presenting a comprehensive kinematic chain workout program. It was anticipated that this method would improve performance the most, considering the complex biomechanical requirements of the sport. Methods: Eighty athletes aged (19.87 ± 1.31 years), were assigned into two groups at random: experimental (n = 40) and control (n = 40). While the control group carried on with their usual training, the experimental group participated in an 8-week kinematic chain training program. Pre- and post-training evaluations were carried out to evaluate shot put-throwing ability, shoulder muscle strength, and participant satisfaction with the exercise regimen. Results: The analyses were performed to evaluate the between- and within-group effects in the 10-week intervention period using a two-way ANOVA. This study demonstrated that, when compared to the control group, the athletes in the kinematic chain program had significantly increased throwing distance (p = 0.01) and shoulder muscle strength (p = 0.01). Furthermore, there was a significant increase (p = 0.005) in the athletes' satisfaction levels with the workout program among those in the experimental group. Conclusions: In shot put athletes, this study suggests that a kinematic chain-focused strategy can improve throwing performance and shoulder muscle strength. The findings suggest that incorporating kinematic chain workouts into shot put training programs could be beneficial. However, conclusions should be drawn with caution, and further research is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of kinematic chain-based approaches across various sports and to understand their broader implications in sports science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alopecia areata totalis and universalis are disabling conditions and therapeutically challenging as they are refractory to conventional options. Tofacitinib is a Janus-kinase (JAK) inhibitor utilized to treat alopecia areata (AA) as an off-label drug. In India, FDA-approved JAK inhibitors such as baricitinib and ritlecitinib are not available. There are only a few case reports on tofacitinib in AA in the Indian population. We present the data of 9 pediatric cases of clinically and histologically proven alopecia areata totalis (AT) and alopecia universalis (AU), for whom oral tofacitinib was given after baseline investigations. The following parameters were analysed: Photographic image and severity of alopecia tool (SALT) score at baseline, 3 months and 6 months, and Children Dermatology Life Quality Index (cDLQI) at baseline and 6 months. The mean ± standard deviation (M ± SD) of the SALT score and cDLQI(M ± SD) at baseline were 95 ± 5 and 17 ± 2. At weeks 4 and weeks 12, the SALT (M ± SD) score was 92.7 ± 6.1 and 34.35 ± 11.16, respectively. At weeks 24, the SALT (M ± SD) score and cDLQI (M ± SD) were 3.33 ± 5 and 6 ± 2. The final reduction in SALT score from the baseline was 100% in 6/9 cases (66.67%), 75% to 99% in 3/9 (22.23%), and 50 to 75% in 1/9 (11.12%). We also observed minimal adverse effects (one child developed herpes zoster) with tofacitinib. Our study demonstrates that oral tofacitinib represents a viable modality in managing difficult-to-treat pediatric AA, such as AT and AU, with a good safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a new species, Didymocarpus janakiae Rhuthuparna & V.Gowda from the eastern Himalayas of India. We provide a detailed description of the species' morphology, diagnostic characters, and colour photographs to support its classification as a new taxon. The new species shows morphological affinities with D. middletonii Souvann., Soulad. & Tagane, D.cinereus D.Don, and D. punduanus var. pulchrus (C. B. Clarke) Su.Datta & B.K.Sinha. It is similar to D. middletonii in its calyx shape but can be distinguished by its glabrous calyx and glandular hairy corolla (versus calyx sparsely covered with multi‐cellular hairs and glabrous corolla). Similarly, it resembles D. punduanus var. pulchrus and D. cinereus D.Don in the shape and purplish colour of the corolla, but D. janakiae can be distinguished from these two species by its urceolate calyx (versus campanulate), and longer calyx tube (6.7–10.4 mm versus ca 6 mm in D. cinereus and 3–6 mm in D. punduanus var. pulchrus). Currently D. janakiae is only known from its type locality, therefore we assess it as Critically Endangered as per the IUCN guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yellow stem borer (YSB), Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker), is a major insect pest that significantly damages rice crop. This study investigates methods to predict YSB populations in rice fields, aiming to develop an early warning system. Traditionally, rice farmers rely on light traps to monitor YSB presence. However, this study goes beyond this approach by combining light‐trap data with weather information (temperature, humidity, rainfall) and utilizing powerful artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to forecast future YSB populations. Two AI methods, multilayer perceptron (MLP) and long short‐term memory (LSTM), were employed to estimate YSB populations and assess their performance. The results revealed that the LSTM model outperformed the MLP model based on statistical metrics like RMSE, MAE, and R2 values. Utilizing LSTM model with historical data, stakeholders in the Eastern Coastal Plains and Hills agro‐climatic zone of India can gain a significant advantage in predicting YSB populations well in advance. This early warning system can alert stakeholders of potential YSB outbreaks, allowing them to take timely management actions and protect their rice crops from substantial yield losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian rice gall midge is one of the important pests of rice, which attacks the crop from nursery to the end of the tillering stage. Managing this pest through plant resistance is the most viable and economical. Two hundred‐two rice genotypes were phenotyped against Asian rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzae (Wood‐Mason) and the mechanism of resistance in terms of antixenosis and antibiosis was studied. Antixenosis mechanism for adult settlement and egg laying indicated that the susceptible genotypes were preferred more than the resistant genotypes in a free choice test. First instar maggots were found and did not continue their growth on resistant genotypes further. However, in susceptible genotypes, they molted successfully and emerged as adults. No choice tests revealed that the emergence of adults in susceptible genotypes took less time than in resistant genotypes. Higher adult sex ratio was found in susceptible genotypes. Estimation of biochemical components in rice shoot apices of selected genotypes revealed that higher levels of total phenols, wax content, total flavonoids and total free amino acids were present in the resistant genotypes. Still, the number of total sugars, reducing sugars and total protein contents were significantly higher in the susceptible genotypes. Hence, the resistance mechanism in rice gall midge was displayed as a combination of antixenosis and antibiosis mechanism. The output of the study would be helpful in breeding for rice varieties resistant to Asian rice gall midge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma multiforme, a disease of grade IV astrocytoma, accounts for 60-70% of malignant brain tumors.? Despite its low survival rate, little is known about GBM and its treatment. The purpose of this study was to assess the comparative effectiveness of the most common drugs (temozolomide, carmustine, bevacizumab) in reducing tumor growth within GBM chemotherapy. It was hypothesized that due to their properties as alkylating agents inhibiting growth genes within GBM, temozolomide and carmustine would provide the most reduction in cellular growth mathematically.² VisualPDE simulations were used to model administration of temozolomide, carmustine, bevacizumab, and none in chemotherapy and provide the cellular GBM counts at any given time within five months (60 time points were used). Results showed cell growth reduction by temozolomide and carmustine, but most drastically by bevacizumab, and upon further analysis, a One-Way ANOVA yielded that the difference between at least two chemotherapeutic administrations were statistically significant (F(3, 236)=281.049, p<0.001). A post-hoc Tukey HSD test revealed a significant difference between no administration and each chemotherapeutic administration (TMZ: p<0.001, BCNU: p=0.046, BEV: p<0.001), as well as significant differences compared to bevacizumab, which was drastically more effective than TMZ and BCNU (p<0.001, p<0.001). Thus, it was concluded that BEV provided the optimal treatment in slowing GBM growth with the mathematical model through its ability to regulate proteins and drug resistance, allowing for its integration in future chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Fan-Theobald-von Neumann system [7] is a triple (V , W , λ) , where V and W are real inner product spaces and λ : V → W is a norm-preserving map satisfying a Fan-Theobald-von Neumann type inequality together with a condition for equality. Examples include Euclidean Jordan algebras, systems induced by certain hyperbolic polynomials, and normal decomposition systems (Eaton triples). The present article is a continuation of [9] where the concepts of commutativity, automorphisms, majorization, and reduction were introduced and elaborated. Here, we describe some transfer principles and present Fenchel conjugate and subdifferential formulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The association of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with aortic valve sclerosis (AVS) is gaining prominence in the context of both non-diabetic and type 2 diabetic populations. While AVS was once dismissed as an incidental echocardiographic observation, it's now recognized as a potential risk factor for adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Concurrently, NAFLD's ramifications extend beyond liver-associated complications, encompassing cardiovascular and renal anomalies. Aims & Objectives: This research aimed to unearth the correlation between NAFLD and AVS in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, primarily focusing on the presence or absence of AVS in the context of ultrasonographically diagnosed NAFLD. Methods: A cross-sectional assessment spanning 12 months was undertaken at the Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore, including 100 patients diagnosed with both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive evaluations, encompassing clinical assessments, blood tests, ultrasonography, and 2DECHO, formed the research's backbone. Findings: Among the cohort, 49% demonstrated a normal echocardiogram, while 51% exhibited signs of sclerotic aortic valve. Notably, male gender exhibited a significant correlation with 2D ECHO findings (p=0.046). Lipid profiles showed marked differences, particularly in triglycerides and LDL levels, between the two groups, with p-values less than 0.05. Other parameters showcased minimal variances, but the lipid profile variations were significantly high in the AVS group. Conclusion: The study underscores the tangible link between NAFLD and lipid irregularities in the backdrop of AVS in type 2 diabetic patients. Such findings accentuate the need for vigilant monitoring and targeted interventions for this demographic, given the overarching cardiovascular implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conductivity and electric modulus formalism in tellurite-modified lithium borate glasses with composition (100–x) − (33.35Li2O–66.65B2O3) − (x)TeO2, (x = 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 mol%) have been prepared. Electric modulus, relaxation mechanism and conductivity parameters were investigated to understand the dielectric properties of the glass matrix in the temperature range between 403 and 583 K, and the frequency range between 100 Hz and 5 MHz. The experimental data of ac conductivity was fitted to Jonscher’s power law. The parameters like dc conductivity (σdc), frequency exponent (S) and crossover frequency (WH) were extracted. The conductivity of the glass matrix was found to exhibit anomalous increasing behaviour with TeO2 content. The decreasing trend in the values of the frequency exponent with the temperature rise demonstrates the correlated barrier hopping mechanism in the conduction process. The electric modulus data fitted to Davidson–Cole model and Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts model have revealed nearly the same values of β (Kohlrausch exponent), which depict the conductivity relaxation process. Other electrical parameters such as bulk resistance (Rb), capacitance (Ao) and stretching exponent (n) were also extracted by fitting the impedance data to the R-CPE model using Zview software. The dc conductivity of lithium boro tellurite glasses was found to follow Arrhenius behaviour and the corresponding activation energy was determined (0.5847–1.0004 eV). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-adherence to medication leading to a break in continuity of care poses significant challenges in severe mental illness (SMI), leading to poor outcomes. In India, proxy consultation, wherein caregivers consult on behalf of patients, is a commonly adopted but insufficiently researched area to address these challenges. Aims: To explore the extent of proxy consultation in outpatient care of persons with SMI and investigate its sociodemographic and clinical correlates. Methodology: In a tertiary care psychiatry outpatient setting, we conducted a cross-sectional study involving 374 caregivers of persons with SMI (Schizophrenia, Bipolar and related disorders). Descriptive statistics and univariate logistic regression were performed to examine correlates' relationships with proxy consultation. Results: Proxy consultation prevalence was 43% in the past 1 year. Compared with 18 to 30 years, middle-aged patients aged 31 to 40, 41 to 50 and 51 to 60 years had twofold, threefold and sixfold increased chances of proxy consultation, respectively. Being illiterate had six times higher odds than graduates, three times and two times if they studied till primary and secondary education. Early age of onset was associated with three times higher chances of proxy consultation compared to the onset of illness in adulthood. On the contrary, male gender and upper and middle socioeconomic status decreased the chances of proxy consultation by 40%. Financial difficulties (n = 72, 45%) and patients' unwillingness to visit outpatients (n = 44, 27.5%) were the most commonly cited reasons for proxy consultation. Conclusion: Proxy consultations are relatively common, driven by many social, economic, patient-related, pragmatic and practical factors. In formulating community care policies for persons with SMI, the primary imperative should be to conduct additional research, deepening our understanding of proxy consultations. Additionally, it is essential to be mindful of the diverse issues associated with proxy consultations during the formulation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: A GWAS in an elite diversity panel, evaluated across 10 environments, identified genomic regions regulating six fiber quality traits, facilitating genomics-assisted breeding and gene discovery in upland cotton. In this study, an elite diversity panel of 348 upland cotton accessions was evaluated in 10 environments across the US Cotton Belt and genotyped with the cottonSNP63K array, for a genome-wide association study of six fiber quality traits. All fiber quality traits, upper half mean length (UHML: mm), fiber strength (FS: g tex−1), fiber uniformity (FU: %), fiber elongation (FE: %), micronaire (MIC) and short fiber content (SFC: %), showed high broad-sense heritability (> 60%). All traits except FE showed high genomic heritability. UHML, FS and FU were all positively correlated with each other and negatively correlated with FE, MIC and SFC. GWAS of these six traits identified 380 significant marker–trait associations (MTAs) including 143 MTAs on 30 genomic regions. These 30 genomic regions included MTAs identified in at least three environments, and 23 of them were novel associations. Phenotypic variation explained for the MTAs in these 30 genomic regions ranged from 6.68 to 11.42%. Most of the fiber quality-associated genomic regions were mapped in the D-subgenome. Further, this study confirmed the pleiotropic region on chromosome D11 (UHML, FS and FU) and identified novel co-localized regions on D04 (FU, SFC), D05 (UHML, FU, and D06 UHML, FU). Marker haplotype analysis identified superior combinations of fiber quality-associated genomic regions with high trait values (UHML = 32.34 mm; FS = 32.73 g tex−1; FE = 6.75%). Genomic analyses of traits, haplotype combinations and candidate gene information described in the current study could help leverage genetic diversity for targeted genetic improvement and gene discovery for fiber quality traits in cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The features of ferromagnetic fluids make it supportive for an extensive range of usages in directing magnetic drugs and magnetic hyperthermia. Owing to all such potential applications, the current study is concerned with the ferromagnetic liquid flow past a stretching sheet with thermophoretic particle deposition and a magnetic dipole. The equations of described flow are transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by selecting suitable similarity variables. These ODEs are later solved numerically by the fourth and fifth-order Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg (RKF-45) technique by using a shooting scheme. The influence of sundry parameters on velocity, thermophoretic diffusive deposition velocity, skin-friction, Nusselt number, Sherwood number, thermal and concentration profiles are illustrated graphically. The results reveal that the increase in ferromagnetic interaction parameter improves the thermal profile but declines the velocity and concentration profiles. The imposition of thermophoretic particle deposition results in declination of the mass transfer. The escalating values of the ferromagnetic interaction parameter decline the rate of heat transfer. Finally, the rise in values of the thermophoretic parameter and thermophoretic coefficient decays thermophoretic diffusive deposition velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lower limb orthopaedic surgeries and ligament reconstruction surgeries are often done with touniquet applied under spinal anaesthesia. Tourniquet deflation leads to the redistribution of the circulating volume back into the limb and post ischaemic reactive hyperaemia. The passive leg raising (PLR) test has been proposed as a predictor of fluid responsiveness in critically ill patients. PLR induces a rapid increase in preload because of the auto transfusion of blood contained within the capacitance veins of the legs. Hence we thought it worthwhile to study the effect of bilateral PLR on patient’s blood pressure and heart rate after tourniquet deflation in patients undergoing lower limb surgery under spinal anaesthesia. AIMS & OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of bilateral passive leg raising in patients undergoing lower limb surgeries under spinal anaesthesia on tourniquet deflation induced. a) Changes in blood pressure (SBP, DBP, MAP) b) Changes in heart rate (HR) METHODOLOGY After approval from institutional review board, the prospective randomized control study was conducted in 50 patients of either sex, 18-60 years of age, ASA I and II, posted for elective lower limb surgery with expected surgical duration of less than 2 hours. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups. Group RL (n=25) in whom bilateral passive leg raising was conducted prior to deflation of tourniquet and Group SL (n=25) in whom patient’s legs were maintained in supine position prior to deflation of tourniquet. Haemodynamic parameters were recorded at time points T1-T17 prior, during and following deflation of tourniquet. RESULTS The study showed that, within 2 min of tourniquet deflation, there was 8.04%, 9.98% and 9.48% reduction in SBP, DBP and MAP respectively (SBP, p<0.001; DBP, p<0.001; MAP, p<0.001) in the control group. While, the degree of decline was insignificant or minimal in the PLR group i.e. 1.07%, 3.22% and 1.72% respectively (SBP, p=0.202; DBP, p=0.042; MAP, p=0.458) and within 2 min of tourniquet deflation, there was 21.06% increase in HR in control group, while the rise was much less in PLR group i.e. 8.0% and the difference in the rise between the 2 groups is statistically significant (p<0.05). CONCLUSION We conclude that the severity and duration of hypotension and tachycardia following tourniquet deflation were attenuated by bilateral PLR in patients undergoing lower limb surgery under spinal anaesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer, the third most prevalent cancer globally, contributes significantly to mortality rates, with over 1.9 million reported cases and nearly 935,000 fatalities annually. Surgical resection is a primary approach for localized colorectal tumors, with adjunct therapies like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted/immunotherapy considered depending on the tumor stage. However, despite preferences for targeted and immunotherapy post-surgery, chemotherapy remains commonly chosen due to its lower cost and high cancer-killing efficiency. Yet, chemotherapy faces issues such as tumor resistance and severe side effects. Nanotechnology has emerged in cancer therapy by alleviating the drawbacks of current treatment approaches. In the past few decades, inorganic nanoparticles have shown promise in combating colorectal cancer, offering advantages over conventional chemotherapy. Compared to organic nanoparticles, inorganic nanoparticles exhibit properties like photosensitivity, conductivity, magnetic allure, and thermal proficiency, allowing them to function as both drug carriers and therapeutic agents. Derived primarily from carbon, silica, metals, and metal oxides, they offer superior drug-loading capacity, heightened quantum yield, and participation in advanced photothermal and photodynamic therapies. This review provides a brief overview of the pathophysiology of colorectal cancer and the pivotal role of inorganic nanoparticles in photothermal therapy photodynamic therapy, and drug delivery. Additionally, it discusses numerous inorganic nanoparticles in colorectal cancer therapy based on recent literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics are viable microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered to the host in adequate amounts. Over the past decade, there has been a growing demand for the use of oral and topical probiotics in several inflammatory conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, etc., although their role in a few areas still remains controversial. The objective of this article is to shed light on understanding the origin and implications of microbiota in the pathophysiology of these dermatological conditions and the effect of probiotic usage. We have conducted a comprehensive search of the literature across multiple databases (PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar) on the role of probiotics in dermatological disorders. Commensal microbes of the skin and gastrointestinal tract play an important role in both health and disease. Increased use of probiotics has asserted a good safety profile, especially in this era of antibiotic resistance. With the advent of new products in the market, the indications, mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety profile of these agents need to be validated. Further studies are required. Oral and topical probiotics may be tried as a treatment or prevention modality in cutaneous inflammatory disorders, thus facilitating decreased requirement for topical or systemic steroids and antimicrobial agents. Tempering microbiota with probiotics is a safe and well‑tolerated approach in this era of antimicrobial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In spite of the much heralded medicinal cures developed in the 1940s and 1950s, tuberculosis still devastates populations throughout the world. Objective: To assess provider related risk factors pertaining to default and non-default among study population. Materials & Methods: Case control study was conducted throughout the DK district involving all 5 TUs to find out the risk factors of DOTS treatment default. A total of 204 subjects were enrolled which includes 68 cases and 136 age and gender matched controls. Cases include treatment after defaults as per DOTS register from 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2014. Results: Majority of the controls (83.1%) reported that, disease has been explained by DOTS provider as compared to cases (60.3%) which was found to be statistically significant (p <0.05). significantly good number of cases (16.2%) reported that DOTS provider did not insist on swallowing tablets in front of them than controls (4.4%) with p value <0.05. There was a statistically significant association between cases (45.6%) and controls (11.8%) with respect to attitude /behavior of the provider (p <0.05). Subjects to whom the disease was not explained by DOTS provider had 3.23 time odd of defaulting, when compared to whom it was explained (p <0.05). There is 4.18 times odds of default among subjects who were not insisted to swallow medication in front of the provider compared to those who were insisted (p <0.05). Conclusion: Unsatisfactory attitude and behavior of DOTS provider, allowing collection of medicines by family members, distance more than 5 KM from treatment centre and disease not explained by DOTS provider were found to be the independent risk factors for defaulting on DOTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: We report the case of a 60-year-old female who presented with postmenopausal bleeding after she underwent investigations followed by a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy. A diagnosis of low-grade endometrioid adenocarcinoma admixed with large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) was made based on the histomorphology and immunohistochemical profile. NEC of the endometrium is a rare and highly aggressive neoplasm requiring a multidisciplinary approach for its treatment. As treatment strategies are changing over time, preoperating imaging evaluation and histopathological examination with molecular characterization whenever possible are essential to follow, to offer the appropriate information to surgeons and/or oncologists for optimal management in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Trauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide among children. Nonoperative management is the standard of care in hemodynamically stable children with blunt abdominal solid organ injury. Embolization is a potential pathway, which has shown increasing evidence for benefit in adult trauma patients. However, the data in children is limited. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis of hospital data of all children (<18 years of age), presenting to a tertiary-care trauma center in India, with history of blunt trauma from January 2021 to June 2023, was performed. Preprocedural imaging, angiographic and embolization details, number of blood transfusions, and length of hospital stay were assessed. Results Two hundred and sixteen children (average age: 11.65 years) presented with a history of abdominal trauma during the study period. Eighty four children were FAST positive, out of whom, 67 patients had abdominal solid organ injury on computed tomography. Liver was the most commonly injured solid organ (n = 45), followed by the spleen and kidney. Ten children had solid abdominal organ arterial injuries for which eight children underwent embolization. The average length of hospital stay in embolization group (n = 8) was 4 days, as compared to 11 days in children undergoing operative management (n = 2). At 6 months follow-up, all children were asymptomatic. Conclusion Superselective embolization is a safe and feasible procedure in appropriately selected children with abdominal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) are a family of enzymes that aid in detoxification and are overexpressed in several different malignancies. There is a correlation between increased expression of ALDH and a poor prognosis, stemness, and resistance to several drugs. Several ALDH inhibitors have been generated due to the crucial role that ALDH plays in cancer stem cells. All of these inhibitors, however, are either ineffective, very toxic, or have yet to be subjected to rigorous testing on their effectiveness. Although various drug-like compounds targeting ALDH have been reported in the literature, none have made it to routine use in the oncology clinic. As a result, new potent, non-toxic, bioavailable, and therapeutically effective ALDH inhibitors are still needed. In this study, we designed and synthesized potent multi-ALDH isoform inhibitors based on the isatin and indazole pharmacophore. Molecular docking studies and enzymatic tests revealed that among all of the synthesized analogs, compound 3 is the most potent inhibitor of ALDH1A1, ALDH3A1, and ALDH1A3, exhibiting 51.32%, 51.87%, and 36.65% inhibition, respectively. The ALDEFLUOR assay further revealed that compound 3 acts as an ALDH broad spectrum inhibitor at 500 nM. Compound 3 was also the most cytotoxic to cancer cells, with an IC50 in the range of 2.1 to 3.8 µM for ovarian, colon, and pancreatic cancer cells, compared to normal and embryonic kidney cells (IC50 7.1 to 8.7 µM). Mechanistically, compound 3 increased ROS activity due to potent multi-ALDH isoform inhibition, which increased apoptosis. Taken together, this study identified a potent multi-isoform ALDH inhibitor that could be further developed as a cancer therapeutic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, biocontrol potential of Bacillus subtilis CRB7 was evaluated to counter root-knot nematode infestation in tomato grown under protected cultivation. Under pot conditions, gall formation on roots was reduced when B. subtilis CRB7 applied at 1.25, 2.5 and 5 g plant−1. Nursery drench with B. subtilis CRB7 at 5, 10 and 15 g m−2 significantly reduced gall formation on roots (37.0 to 85.8%). Further, application of B. subtilis CRB7 as nursery drench at 15 g m−2, soil drench at 0.5% at 30 day's interval and soil application of enriched vermicompost (5 kg 2 tonnes−1 of vermicompost ha−1) significantly reduced gall formation on roots (58.3% and 54.2%) and enhanced yield (29.8% and 15.4%) in two consecutive protected field experiments, respectively. Given its potent efficacy, B. subtilis CRB7 emerges as a promising component for the management of root-knot nematode in tomato grown under protected cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate prothrombin time/international normalized ratio (PT) along with activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and its association with platelet and red blood cell (RBC) cell population data for initial assessment of thrombotic tendencies. Materials and Methods: Blood samples of 43 patients diagnosed with a beta-thalassemia major who were transfusion dependant were taken for assessment of mean platelet volume (MPV), plateletcrit (PCT), and platelet distribution width (PDW) along with RBC distribution width and correlated with APTT. Results: Elevated APTT and PT were noted among patients with thalassemia along with elevated PCT and red cell distribution width-coefficient of variation (RDW-CV). Reduced PDW was noted. Elevated APTT was positively associated with RDW and MPV and negatively associated with PDW and PCT. Conclusion: In our study, elevated levels of PCT RDW CV, PT, and APTT were observed. Elevated levels of APTT were also noted to be positively correlated with MPV and RDW CV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major reason for mortality among systemic lupus erythematosus patients is renal failure due to the deposition of immune complexes in the glomeruli. Being a chronic disease with multiple relapses and remissions across the lifespan, it's important to know the degree of nephritis for diagnosis as well as the long-term clinical management of the patients. Currently, renal biopsy is being used as the gold standard to diagnose and define the stages of the disease. However, renal biopsy being invasive only provides a localized picture of nephritis, and has the risk of bleeding. Additionally, it is also cost-intensive. Hence, a reliable, non-invasive biomarker is required for lupus nephritis. This study has evaluated extracellular mitochondrial components, including cell-free mitochondria, and cell-free mitochondrial DNA as probable biomarkers of the degree of nephritis. Both showed a significant correlation with proteinuria and protein-creatinine ratio. Our study substantiates their usage as clinical biomarkers of nephritis upon their validation in a larger cohort of lupus nephritis patients and other forms of nephritis. Although the current data suggest using cell-free mitochondria as a biomarker of lupus nephritis is better than the cell-free mitochondrial DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soilage of the surgical endoscope occurs frequently during minimally invasive surgery. The resultant impairment of visualization of the surgical field compromises patient safety, prolongs operative times, and frustrates surgeons. The standard practice for cleaning the surgical camera involves a disruption in the conduct of surgery by completely removing the endoscope from the field, manually cleaning its lens, treating it with a surfactant, and reinserting it into the patient; after which the surgeon resumes the procedure. Methods: We developed an automated solution for in vivo endoscope cleaning in minimally invasive surgery- a port that detects the position of the endoscope in its distal lumen, and precisely and automatically delivers a pressurized mist of cleaning solution to the lens of the camera. No additions to the scope and minimal user interaction with the port are required. We tested the efficacy of this troCarWash™ device in a porcine model of laparoscopy. Four board-certified general surgeons were instructed to soil and then clean the laparoscope using the device. Representative pre- and post-clean images were exported from the surgical video and clarity was graded (1) digitally by a canny edge detection algorithm, and (2) subjectively by 3 blinded, unbiased observers using a semi-quantitative scale. Results: We observed statistically significant improvements in clarity by each method and for each surgeon, and we noted significant correlation between digital and subjective scores. Conclusion: Based on these data, we conclude that the troCarWash™ effectively restored impaired visualization in a large animal model of laparoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Policy PointsCurrent medical device regulatory frameworks date back half a century and are ill suited for the next generation of medical devices that involve a significant software component.Existing Food and Drug Administration efforts are insufficient because of a lack of statutory authority, whereas international examples offer lessons for improving and harmonizing domestic medical device regulatory policy.A voluntary alternative pathway built upon two‐stage review with individual component review followed by holistic review for integrated devices would provide regulators with new tools to address a changing medical device marketplace [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigations focus on developing an appropriate model for streamflow generation of a partially gauged basin and the operation of small storage in a tropical, seasonal river basin. The small storages created through the vented dams effectively conserve and sustain the water resources for the lean season. Hence, it is pertinent to develop streamflow models to derive streamflow series at the vented dam locations. In the present investigation, streamflow modelling was attempted using response surface and neural network models in a first of its kind. Out of them, the Response Surface Box Behnken model was found to be most efficient in generating streamflow, with Nash Sutcliff's efficiency above 0.617. Further, it is also essential to operate these small storages to maintain a sustainable, ecological flow in the river course. The operation policy for seasonal storage like vented dams is yet to be reported in the literature. The present work uses reservoir simulation and multi-objective optimisation to derive such storages operation policy through hedging operations, with modified shortage index and mean event deficit as objectives. The performance indicators evaluated the operation policy for eight vented dams of the basin. The results illustrate that vented dams indicate shortages while satisfying the respective demands. The results demonstrate that hedging improves the reservoir's performance by reducing the mean event deficit of 0.268–0.044 Mm3 before and after hedging. The frequency and intensity of shortages were also reduced through hedging for the tropical, seasonal river basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]