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In quantum chemistry, Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (LUMO) is important for studying various chemical processes, including photochemical reactions, electron attached states, and electron excites states. Recently, an effective method has been introduced that involves the use of the Parametric Equation of Motion (PEM) in conjunction with the nuclear charge stabilization method for precise identification of true LUMO. However, the inclusion of extra diffuse functions in the basis set, which is necessary for describing electron-attached and electron-excited states, can cause issues due to the presence of the same symmetry states, leading to avoided crossing. Identifying the true LUMO among these avoided crossings is challenging due to the mixing of states and the exchange of their orbital character. This article introduces a modification of the PEM to identify the true LUMO by preventing the stabilization of specific states involved in avoided crossings. The present method is highly effective and requires minimal computational cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) are recognized as a class of advanced materials with outstanding mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Among these, nickel-based HEAs stand out for their impressive strength, ductility, and oxidation resistance. This review delves into the latest advancements in nickel-containing HEAs, covering their fundamental principles, alloy design strategies, and additive manufacturing techniques. We start by introducing HEAs and their unique properties, emphasizing the crucial role of nickel. This review examines the complex relationships between alloy composition, valence electron concentration (VEC), and the resulting crystal structures. This provides insights into design principles for achieving desired microstructures and mechanical properties. Additive manufacturing (AM) techniques like selective laser melting (SLM), electron beam melting (EBM), and laser metal deposition (LMD) are highlighted as powerful methods for fabricating intricate HEA components. The review addresses the challenges of AM processes, such as porosity, fusion defects, and anisotropic mechanical properties, and discusses strategies to mitigate these issues through process optimization and improved powder quality. The mechanical behavior of AM-processed nickel-based HEAs is thoroughly analyzed, focusing on compressive strength, hardness, and ductility. This review underscores the importance of microstructural features, including grain size, phase composition, and deformation mechanisms, in determining the mechanical performance of these alloys. Additionally, the influence of post-processing techniques, such as heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) on enhancing mechanical properties is explored. This review also examines the oxidation behavior of nickel-containing HEAs, particularly the formation of protective oxide scales and their dependence on aluminum content. The interplay between composition, VEC, and oxidation resistance is discussed, offering valuable insights for designing corrosion resistant HEAs. Finally, this review outlines the potential applications of nickel-based HEAs in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy, and identifies future research directions to address challenges and fully realize the potential of these advanced materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakanae disease caused by Fusarium fujikuroi is emerging in India. In this work, fungicides and biocontrol agents were evaluated as seed, seedling treatment, and foliar spray(s) against bakanae disease in rice under field conditions. Carbendazim (50% WP) was found to be the most effective fungicide for seed and seedling root dip treatments. Soil drenching with 0.25% carbendazim (50% WP) 5 days before transplanting of seedlings was effective for large scale treatments. Foliar spray of 0.1% tebuconazole 50%+ trifloxystrobin 25% w/w (75 WG) significantly reduced the percentage of infected seeds (7.17%) compared with the control (32.50%). The minimum disease incidence (31%) was observed when seeds were treated with Talaromyces flavus. Individual treatments were integrated in the form of six management modules and evaluated under the field conditions of New Delhi (India) and Pusa Bihar (India) with the susceptible cultivars 'Pusa Basmati 1121' and 'Pusa 1176'. Bakanae disease incidence was lower in the modules tested compared with the inoculated control or the individual treatment. The most favorable results at two locations achieved the lowest disease incidence of 7% and 2.41%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bacterial isolate PM1 obtained from the rhizosphere of healthy plants was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa by biochemical characteristics and 16S rRNA gene sequence (GenBank ID OL321133.1). It induced resistance in Nicotiana tabacum cv. Xanthi-nc and Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, against Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) and Sunn-hemp rosette virus (SRV), respectively. Foliar treatment with isolate PM1 curbed TMV accumulation in susceptible N. tabacum cv. White Burley. PM1 was more effective as a foliar than a root/soil drench treatment, evident through a comparative decrease in ELISA values, and reduced viral RNA accumulation. Foliar and soil drench treatment with PM1 resulted in a disease index of 48 and 86 per cent, and a control rate of 48.9 and 8.5 per cent, respectively. PM1 exhibited phosphate solubilization, produced siderophores, auxins, HCN, and ammonia, all important plant growth-promoting traits. Foliar treatment with PM1 enhanced growth in tobacco, while its volatiles significantly promoted seedling growth in C. tetragonoloba. Of the several metabolites produced by the isolate, many are known contributors to induction of systemic resistance, antibiosis, and growth promotion in plants. Soluble metabolites of PM1 were less effective in inducing antiviral resistance in N. tabacum cv. Xanthi-nc in comparison with its broth culture. PM1 and its metabolites were antagonistic to Gram-positive Bacillus spizizenii and Staphylococcus aureus, and fungi Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Its volatiles were inhibitory to F. oxysporum and R. stolonifer. Thus, PM1 exhibited considerable potential for further evaluation in plant virus control and production of diverse metabolites of use in agriculture and medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inner ear malformations are an important cause of sensorineural hearing loss ranging from severe to profound and they also contribute to Cerebrospinal fluid leakage and recurrent meningitis. The most severe is the complete labyrinthine aplasia (Michel Deformity), then there is cochlear aplasia, cochlear hypoplasia, incomplete partition of the cochlea, enlarged vestibular acqueduct and cochlear aperture abnormality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the usage of deep learning-based approaches for salient object detection (SOD) is increasing exponentially to detect and localize visually distinct regions in static images. However, the variability in scales of salient objects requires further attention given the abstract nature of the multilayer feature hierarchy of convolution neural networks (CNNs). First, feature maps of different layers in CNNs embed abstract information about objects that changes with the object’s scale. Second, the progressive feature fusion in models, such as the feature pyramid network, loses its effectiveness in detecting sharp boundaries due to the late fusion of detailed features. This work proposes two modules namely, adjacent layer attention block and partial encoder–decoder (PED) block to handle the aforementioned issues. The proposed adjacent layer attention block facilitates communication among the layers of closest abstraction to mine abundant scale features at the current resolution. The resultant integrated feature at a resolution contains detailed and semantic information from interaction among the adjacent layers useful to extract scale information of complex objects. A PED module utilizes the resolution-specific integrated features from the adjacent layer attention block of its corresponding encoder to generate multiscale features, and fuse them in a top-down manner. This level-specific distribution of aggregated features within a PED helps coarser layers of the network to acquire boundary information. Experimental results on five broadly used SOD datasets are compared with recent 20 state-of-the-art SOD models. The proposed method performs favorably against its competitors without any preprocessing or postprocessing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective extraction of local and contextual visual cues carrying information of different scales is crucial for accurate detection of the salient object(s) with varying shape, size, and location. The atrous spatial pyramid pooling (ASPP) and its dense versions are widely used for extracting contextual features for dense prediction tasks. The skip connections in densely or moderately connected ASPP directly propagate the context information from a parallel dilated convolution to the next higher rate dilated convolution to combat the “gridding issue” in àtrous convolutions. The aggregated context from several scales may dilute features belonging to small objects or confuse between the salient object and the background. To emphasize invariance features for different scale visual patterns in an image, a gate-based context extraction module is proposed in this work. Gate functions are embedded in the interbranch short connection of the proposed module. The learnable gates are deployed to decide on the relevance of the contextual information extracted at a lower scale for the next higher scale. Experimental results on salient object detection tasks demonstrate that gates are helpful to retain relevant contextual information across multiple-scales of the context-extraction module. The performance of the proposed gated contextual feature-based salient object detector is evaluated on five broadly used saliency detection benchmarks by comparing it with the other 13 state-of-the-art approaches. Experimental outcomes show that the proposed method achieves a favorable performance for various compared evaluation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clustering inspired superpixel algorithms perform a restricted partitioning of an image, where each visually coherent region containing perceptually similar pixels serves as a primitive in subsequent processing stages. Simple linear iterative clustering (SLIC) has emerged as a standard superpixel generation tool due to its exceptional performance in terms of segmentation accuracy and speed. However, SLIC applies a manually adjusted distance measure for dis-similarity computation which directly affects the quality of superpixels. In this work, self-adjustable distance measures are adapted from the weighted k-means clustering (W-k-means) for generating superpixel segmentation. In the proposed distance measures, an adaptive weight associated with each variable reflects its relevance in the clustering process. Intuitively, the variable weights correspond to the normalization terms in SLIC that affect the trade-off between superpixels boundary adherence and compactness. Weights that influence consistency in superpixel generation are automatically updated. The variable weights update is accomplished during optimization with a closed-form solution based on the current image partition. The proposed adaptive, W-k-means-based superpixels (AWkS) experimented on three benchmarks under different distance measure outperform the conventional SLIC algorithm with respect to various boundary adherence metrics. Finally, the effectiveness of the AWkS over SLIC is demonstrated for saliency detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aarskog Scott syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by facial, skeletal and genital abnormalities, intellectual disability and short stature. It has X-linked recessive inheritance primarily affecting males though female carriers can manifest subtle signs. We report a case associated with prematurity, low birth weight, severe developmental delay, congenital heart disease (OS-ASD) and clinodactyly of all limbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, India is home to every third child affected by stunting. While numerous studies have examined the correlates of childhood stunting (CS) in India, most of these studies have focused on examining the role of proximal factors, and the role of contextual factors is much less studied. This study presents a comprehensive picture of both proximal and contextual determinants of CS in India, expanding the current evidence base. The present study is guided by the WHO conceptual framework, which outlines the context, causes, and consequences of CS. Data and methods: The study used exploratory spatial data analysis tools to analyse the spatial pattern and correlates of CS, using data from the fourth round (2015–16) of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) and the 2011 Census of India. Results: The study findings reiterate that CS continues to be high in India, with several hot spot states and districts, and that children from the central and eastern region of the nation, namely, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh are particularly vulnerable. Our analysis has identified six risk factors—maternal short stature, large household size, closely spaced births, prevalence of hypertension among women, household poverty, open defecation, and extreme temperature—and four protective factors—female education, access to improved drinking water, dietary diversity among children, and iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation during pregnancy. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for investing in pre-conception care, addressing both demand- and supply-side barriers to increase the coverage of nutrition-specific interventions, implementing programmes to promote the intake of healthy foods from an early age, providing contraceptive counselling and services to unmarried and married adolescents and young women and men, and universalizing quality primary and secondary education that is inclusive and equitable to avert the burden of childhood stunting in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study attempts to compare and contrast the organic food choice-making process among high and low-income customers based on food quality, service quality and price fairness. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results indicate apparent differences in decision-making strategies of high and low-income customers. Price fairness played an essential role in reducing risk and enhancing trust among low-income customers. Therefore, perceived risk reduction strategies are more suited for low-income consumers. For high-income consumers, trust was crucial. Also, product and service quality was equally vital for both segments. Managers selling organic food to high-income customers should focus on the retailing mix elements to build trust in the retailer. However, for low-income customers, managers should justify the price premium as fair. Also, managers may try to reduce financial risk by mechanisms such as money-back guarantees or liberal return policies for low-income customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia are clinical end points of dopaminergic deficit and excess, respectively, in the mid-brain. In accordance, current pharmacological interventions aim to restore normal dopamine levels, the overshooting of which culminates in adverse effects which results in psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's disease and extra-pyramidal symptoms in schizophrenia. Currently, there are no laboratory assays to assist treatment decisions or help foresee these drug side-effect outcomes. Therefore, the aim was to discover a protein biomarker that had a varying linear expression across the clinical dopaminergic spectrum. Materials and methods: iTRAQ-based proteomic experiments along with mass spectrometric analysis was used for comparative proteomics using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF fluid was collected from 36 patients with Parkinson's disease, 15 patients with urological diseases that served as neurological controls, and seven schizophrenic patients with hallucinations. Validation included ELISA and pathway analysis to highlight the varying expression and provide plausible molecular pathways for differentially expressed proteins in the three clinical phenotypes. Results: Protein profiles were delineated in CSF from Parkinson's disease patients, neurological control and schizophrenia, respectively. Ten of the proteins that were identified had a linear relationship across the dopaminergic spectrum. α-2-Macroglobulin showed to be having high statistical significance on inter-group comparison on validation studies using ELISA. Conclusions: Non-gel-based proteomic experiments are an ideal platform to discover potential biomarkers that can be used to monitor pharmaco-therapeutic efficacy in dopamine-dictated clinical scenarios. α-2 Macroglobulin is a potential biomarker to monitor pharmacological therapy in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Dopamine plays an important role in the disease pathology of Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. These two neuropsychiatric disorders represent disease end points of the dopaminergic spectrum where Parkinson's disease represents dopamine deficit and schizophrenia represents dopamine hyperactivity in the mid-brain. Therefore, current treatment strategies aim to restore normal dopamine levels. However, during treatment patients develop adverse effects due to overshooting of physiological levels of dopamine leading to psychosis in Parkinson's disease, and extrapyramidal symptoms in schizophrenia. Absence of any laboratory tests hampers modulation of pharmacotherapy. Apolipoprotein E and α-synuclein have an important role in the neuropathology of these two diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of apolipoprotein E and α-synuclein in patients with these two diseases so that they may serve as biomarkers to monitor therapy in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. Methods: Drug-naïve Parkinson's disease patients and Parkinson's disease patients treated with dopaminergic therapy, neurological controls, schizophrenic patients treated with antidopaminergic therapy, and drug-naïve schizophrenic patients were recruited for the study and CSF was collected. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were carried out to estimate the concentrations of apolipoprotein E and α-synuclein. Pathway analysis was done to establish a possible role of these two proteins in various pathways in these two dopamine dictated diseases. Results: Apolipoprotein E and α-synuclein CSF concentrations have an inverse correlation along the entire dopaminergic clinical spectrum. Pathway analysis convincingly establishes a plausible hypothesis for their co-regulation in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. Each protein by itself or as a combination has encouraging sensitivity and specificity values of more than 55%. Conclusion: The dynamic variation of these two proteins along the spectrum is ideal for them to be pursued as pharmacotherapeutic biomarkers in CSF to monitor pharmacological efficacy in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

aim to restore normal dopamine levels in the midbrain. But during therapy, there is a overshooting of dopamine concentrations that result in hallucinations in Parkinson's disease patients and extra-pyramidal symptoms in schizophrenic patients. This causes a lot of inconvenience to the patents and the clinicians. There are no tests currently available to monitor drug efficacy in these two neuropsychiatric diseases. Materials and methods: Parkinson's disease and schizophrenic naïve patients were recruited. Serum proteins isolated from these two clinical phenotypes were labeled with fluorescent cyanine dyes and analyzed by two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis proteomic experiment. Differentially expressed spots that had consistent expression pattern across five sets of biological replicate gels were trypsin digested and subjected to mass spectrometric analysis for protein identification. Validation experiments were done for the identified proteins using antibody-based assay on a patient cohort that included naïve, treated, and those who had side effects. Results: Serum α- and β-globin chains were identified as differentially expressed proteins having threefold higher expressions in Parkinson's patients as compared to schizophrenia. Interestingly, concentrations of these two proteins had an inverse correlation across clinical phenotypes in the dopaminergic spectrum. RBC contamination as a source for these proteins was ruled out. Conclusion: There is a clear association of free serum globin with dopaminergic clinical states. This lays a platform for protein biomarker–based monitoring of pharmacological efficacy in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to document the incidence of early lymphedema and study the risk factors influencing post mastectomy lymphedema. It is a prospective cohort study involving 98 adult women who underwent surgery including axillary lymph node dissection for biopsy-proven breast carcinoma. Serial measurements of the arm were taken preoperatively and postoperatively at 3, 6 and 12 months. Lymphedema was diagnosed if there was an increase in girth by more than 2 cm in the concerned limb. All patients received standard lymphedema prevention advice. Risk factors assessed were age, body mass index, comorbid conditions, hypertension, medications, socioeconomic status, upper limb symptoms, laterality of disease, type of surgery, stage of the disease, histopathology, node status, wound complication, receptor status, seroma volume, duration of seroma drainage, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, post radiation skin reaction and post therapy weight gain. The statistical analysis was done using chi-square test with SPSS version 16. The incidence of lymphedema was 23.47%. The univariate analysis showed that prolonged or high volume seroma, taxane-based chemotherapy, radiotherapy to axilla and skin necrosis following radiation were significantly associated with lymphedema. In the multivariate analysis, only post radiation skin necrosis was significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary Thyroid Lymphoma (PTL) is a rare entity prevalent in middle to old aged females. They are predominantly B-cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL), among which Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype. Here, the authors have described a case of PTL in a male patient which is extremely rare. The patient presented with a swelling over anterior aspect of neck and dysphagia since two months. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) of thyroid swelling and following immunocytochemistry showed B-cell NHL. Histopathological and Immunohistochemical (IHC) examination was also done thereafter on right hemithyroidectomy specimen, which revealed a non-germinal centre type of DLBCL. Histopathological examination revealed an antecedent chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis in this patient. With this case, it was evident that early diagnosis of thyroid lymphoma can be possible with FNAC. However, false negative diagnosis can occur on non-representative aspiration sample. Besides this, it is challenging for a pathologist to subtype the lymphoma on cytology smear. Hence, histopathological examination along with Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is imperative for accurate diagnosis of PTL. The patient had received three cycles of chemotherapy and follow-up of 11 months was uneventful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modified smooth exterior scaling (MSES) method is an efficient method to impose outgoing boundary conditions in electron–atom or electron–molecule scatterings. MSES can be used to convert divergent wave functions to square integrable ones. The electron propagator method in conjunction with MSES has been utilized to characterize 2S Be+ (1s−1), 2S Ne+ (1s−1) Auger and 2P Be− shape resonances. The dilated electron propagator has been proved to be an efficient and powerful tool in characterizing the Auger and shape resonances. The resonance energies obtained by using this method are in good agreement with experimental results and other theoretical estimates available in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examined the utilization pattern of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) among the tribal population living in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh, India. The data for this study were generated from personal interviews of 135 respondents, who were randomly selected from nine villages of the Bilaspur district. The study showed that respondents were involved in collection of various NTFPs throughout the year. However, April–June month was found as the peak period for NTFPs collection by the respondents. All the respondents were engaged in mahua collection. Among the all collected NTFPs, the respondents had utilized mainly the fruit part of various NTFPs. The average quantities of various NTFPs collected by family-1 year-1 were as follows: 1483.25 stakes (bundles) of tendupatta, 144.51 kg of mahua and 79.25 kg of aam. The respondents consumed 70.18% of total collected quantity of kheksha followed by putu and chhatani (69.30%) and tendu (62.49%), whereas the respondents were selling 100% of total collected quantity of tendupatta and lakh followed by harra (97.94%). The data also revealed that the average annual income family-1 was maximum for mahua ( ₹ 2176.04) followed by char beej (₹ 1928.68) and gond (₹ 1888.98). The majority of respondents (94.81%) found bad weather as a main factor affecting the availability of various NTFPs. From this study, it could be concluded that collection, consumption and selling of NTFPs played a significant role in securing the livelihoods of the tribal population in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of Sclerotinia rot disease was recorded on various pigeonpea cultivars from flowering initiation to pod formation stage during the years 2012-13 and 2013-14. Critical symptoms of the disease were observed as formation of cottony white mycelium along with number of sclerotia on infected tissues. The pathogen was characterized on the basis of morphological and pathological traits. The cool wet winter with average minimum and maximum temperatures (9.2 and 21.0 °C) and more than 93% relative humidity play an important role for stem rot disease development and spread in pigeonpea crop. The pigeonpea cultivar, 'ICPL-151' showed maximum disease incidence, twig infection and yield losses up to 73.35%, 23.58% and 15.70%, respectively, while 'Kudrat' and 'MAL-13' cultivars were found completely resistant to the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: This goal of this study was to shed light on the ecological context as a potential determinant of the infant mortality rate in nine high-focus states in India. METHODS: Data from the Annual Health Survey (2010-2011), the Census of India (2011), and the District Level Household and Facility Survey 3 (2007-08) were used in this study. In multiple regression analysis explanatory variable such as underdevelopment is measured by the non-working population, and income inequality, quantified as the proportion of households in the bottom wealth quintile. While, the trickle-down effect of education is measured by female literacy, and investment in health, as reflected by neonatal care facilities in primary health centres. RESULTS: A high spatial autocorrelation of district infant mortality rates was observed, and ecological factors were found to have a significant impact on district infant mortality rates. The result also revealed that nonworking population and income inequality were found to have a negative effect on the district infant mortality rate. Additionally, female literacy and new-born care facilities were found to have an inverse association with the infant mortality rate. CONCLUSIONS: Interventions at the community level can reduce district infant mortality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:The neonatal skin is fragile and should be handled with maximal care. The thin stratum corneum and attenuated rete ridges in neonatal skin makes them vulnerable to physical injury, insensible water loss, thermal instability and infection. The widespread use of intensive care unit facilities for taking specialized care of the neonate brings along with it a better prognosis for survival but has introduced the caveat of many an iatrogenic skin disorder. Most of these iatrogenic disorders are potentially preventable by providing more inclusive rigorous training of neonatal health care providers and observation of utmost vigilance and care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sclerotiniastem rot caused bySclerotinia sclerotiorum(Lib.) de Bary was observed for the first time on pigeonpea in Pusa, Bihar (India) during the years 2012–2014. Typical symptoms of the disease included blighting of twigs, stem lesions, and development of cottony white mycelium and numerous large sclerotia on diseased plant parts. The fungus was identified on the basis of cultural and morphological characteristics, and its pathogenicity was also established. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of pathogen was amplified with primers ITS1 and ITS4, which revealed 100% query coverage along with 99% identity withS. sclerotiorumrecovered from different hosts. The highest disease incidence was recorded on cultivar ‘ICPL151’, whereas cultivars ‘MAL13’ and ‘Kudrat’ were observed to have significantly less disease under natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The most common and most lethal type of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which accounts for 55% of lung diseases classified as IIPs. Diagnosis of IPF requires precision and a multidisciplinary approach .Indeed, an early and accurate diagnosis of IPF is critical for a better outcome, especially with the advent of new specific treatments for this disease. The previous guidelines using major and minor criteria for the clinical (i.e. non-pathological) diagnosis of IPF have been discarded, as it is now clear that, in an appropriate clinical setting, the presence of a classical UIP pattern on the HRCT scan is sufficient for a diagnosis of IPF to be made. In the presence of the four classical features, that together accurately identify a Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern, a definitive diagnosis of IPF can be made. Guidelines emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary discussion between clinicians, radiologists and pathologists to improve diagnostic confidence. The course of disease in IPF is unpredictable, but the importance of an early diagnosis is clear, as individuals with less severe lung function abnormalities have a better prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate phytochemical composition, antibacterial and antioxidant properties of methanolic extracts of different parts viz., leaves, follicles and latex of Indian devil tree (Alstonia scholaris Linn.) R. Br. Methods: Antibacterial activities of the methanol extracts against Gram +ve (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram -ve (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria were determined by well diffusion techniques. Aantioxidant profiles of methanol extracts were determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH) free radical scavenging, superoxide anion radial scavenging and ferric thiocyanate reducing assays. Results: Phytochemical composition revealed abundance of flavonoids (97.3 mg QE/g DW), proanthocynidins (99.3 mg CE/g DW) and phenolics (49.7 mgGAE/g DW) in the leaf extract. Extracts of follicles and latex had comparatively very content of phenolics, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. However, in follicle extract level of proanthocyanidins was significantly higher (46.8 mg CE/gDW). Latex extract among others exhibited most potent antibacterial activity. All the extracts displayed strong DPPH free radical and superoxide anion scavenging activities, only leaf extract displayed powerful reducing and ferrous ion chelating activities. Conclusion: Study revealed significant antioxidant activities of A. scholaris leaf, follicles and latex extracts and potential antibacterial activity of latex extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sitagliptin, a selective dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor drug is used to treat type-2 diabetes (T2DM). We investigated the anti-platelet activity of sitagliptin in patients with T2DM and in in vitro samples obtained from healthy humans. Patients with T2DM (27 male + 23 female) were selected and followed up before (control) and after treatment with sitagliptin for up to 3 months. Platelets were isolated from the blood of sitagliptin treated patients and controls. Patients with T2DM treated with sitagliptin for 1and 3 months, showed 10 ± 2% and 30 ± 5% inhibition of platelet aggregation, respectively. For the in vitro study, platelets from 10 normal humans ( n = 10) were isolated. Platelet aggregation, intracellular free calcium and tyrosine phosphorylation of multiple proteins were measured by aggregometer, spectrofluorometer and western blotting, respectively. Platelets pre-treated with 5 and 10 µg/ml of sitagliptin, showed 25 ± 4% and 40 ± 6% inhibition of thrombin-induced platelet aggregation, respectively. Sitagliptin decreased intracellular free calcium (2.5-fold) and tyrosine phosphorylation of multiple proteins in thrombin-induced platelet activation. Sitagliptin inhibited platelet aggregation in T2DM as well as in healthy humans. Sitagliptin has significant concentration-dependent anti-platelet activity. This activity was due to its inhibitory effect on intracellular free calcium and tyrosine phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harmonic generation spectra (HGS) of two different ensembles of the same heteronuclear (polar) diatomic molecule are studied. In one ensemble the molecules are aligned (i.e. CO ↔ OC) whereas in the second ensemble the molecules are randomly distributed in different directions (and therefore not all molecules have the same orientation, e.g. CO or OC along one of the axes in the laboratory frame). Using the non-Hermitian formalism of quantum mechanics we prove that the HGS of the two ensembles consist of odd-order harmonics only, provided the photo-induced dynamics is controlled by a single resonance (metastable) state. As we show here by using the Friedrich and Herschbach approach [J. Phys. Chem. A 103, 10280 (1999); J. Chem. Phys. 111, 6157 (1999)], it is possible to distinguish between the ensemble of ‘perfectly’ aligned molecules and an ensemble of molecules with a random directional distribution, provided the dc-field is turned on adiabatically slow and all aligned molecules are in the same quantum state. As an illustrative numerical example the HGS of aligned and ensemble of random directional distributed CO molecules with and without dc field were computed by carrying out ab initio electronic structure calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tubercular infection of the oral tissues can be primary or secondary. Primary lesions develop when tuberculosis bacilli are directly inoculated into the oral tissues of a person who has not acquired immunity to the disease. Here we present a case of 66yrs old non-smoker male presenting with a swelling in the left mandibular region (Lumpy jaw) over a period of last 1yr now presenting with weight loss, pain and trismus for 6month. No past history of tuberculosis or dental extraction. On examination there was a 6x5cm firm to hard nonfluctuant mildly tender swelling with trismus and no palpable cervical lymph nodes. Investigations revealed leucocytosis, ESR 45mm and Mantoux 24mm after 48hrs.PNG radiograph showed osteolytic lesion in angle & body of left mandible with CECT showing retro mandibular trigon extension. USG guided FNAC was consistent with tubercular osteomyelitis with Ziehl Neelsen stain positive for acid fast bacilli. He was started on antitubercular therapy for 9 month showing reduction in size and symptom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently the effect of the relative phase φ in a high-intensity (∼1014 W/cm2) two-color (bichromatic) CW laser with frequencies ω and 2ω on the high-order harmonic generation (HHG) was studied within the framework of the non-Hermitian quantum mechanics (NHQM) [Phys Rev A 2004, 69, 043404/1]. Here we emphasize the study of symmetries in bichromatic HHG spectra within the framework of the conventional Hermitian QM, and in particular by taking the duration of the laser pulse into consideration (an effect that has not been included in the non-Hermitian studies due to the time asymmetry problem in NHQM). The phase dependence of HHG and intense-field ionization probability in a 1D Xe atom with symmetric field-free potential and symmetric initial wave function were studied numerically and analytically. From simulations based on a single-particle response it can be seen that the HHG spectra is symmetric with respect to inversion in the relative phase between the two colors φ only if ionization is forbidden in the system and the laser pulse is an adiabatic one. The HHG spectra is symmetric with respect to a π-shift in φ whenever the laser pulse is an adiabatic one, either for bound or open (ionized) systems. The ionization probability is symmetric both to inversion or π-shift in φ; the component probabilities (right- and left-ionization probabilities) have the same φ-dependence, up to a shift of π. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspiration of tracheobronchial foreign commonly affects young children and it is uncommon in adults. Bronchoscopy both flexible and rigid is recommended to reveal the aetiology and therapeutic removal of foreign body aspiration. Here we report a case of pill aspiration presenting with acute onset breathlessness in emergency. Investigation of a case revealed left lung atelectasis on chest X-ray. Further workup by bronchoscopy showed an endobronchial mass lesion in left main bronchus causing left lung atelectasis. The obstruction was removed and patient improved promptly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection and localization of regions of images that attract immediate human visual attention is currently an intensive area of research in computer vision. The capability of automatic identification and segmentation of such salient image regions has immediate consequences for applications in the field of computer vision, computer graphics, and multimedia. A large number of salient object detection (SOD) methods have been devised to effectively mimic the capability of the human visual system to detect the salient regions in images. These methods can be broadly categorized into two categories based on their feature engineering mechanism: conventional or deep learning-based. In this survey, most of the influential advances in image-based SOD from both conventional as well as deep learning-based categories have been reviewed in detail. Relevant saliency modeling trends with key issues, core techniques, and the scope for future research work have been discussed in the context of difficulties often faced in salient object detection. Results are presented for various challenging cases for some large-scale public datasets. Different metrics considered for assessment of the performance of state-of-the-art salient object detection models are also covered. Some future directions for SOD are presented towards end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects 2%–3% of the population worldwide. Clinical presentation of PD includes motor and non‐motor symptoms. The interplay between pathogenic factors such as increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis are responsible for neurodegeneration in PD. Intrastriatal administration of 6‐hydroxy dopamine (6‐OHDA) in rat brain provoked oxidative and nitrosative stress by decreasing endogenous antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase. Consequently, interleukin‐6, tumour necrosis‐α, interferon‐γ and cyclooxygenase‐2 mediated neuroinflammation leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, involving inhibition of complex‐II and IV activities, followed by apoptosis and degeneration of striatal dopaminergic neurons. Degeneration of dopaminergic neurons resulted in reduced dopamine turnover, consequently induced behavioural abnormalities in rats. Activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) have protective role in PD by modulating response of antioxidant enzymes, neuroinflammation and apoptosis in various animal models of PD. Saroglitazar (SG) being dual PPAR‐α/γ agonist activates both PPAR‐α and PPAR‐γ receptors and provide neuroprotection by reducing oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis of dopaminergic cells in 6‐OHDA induced PD in rats. Thereby, SG restored striatal histopathological damage and dopamine concentration in rat striatum, and behavioural alterations in rats. Thus, SG proved neuroprotective effects in rat model of PD. Potential benefits of SG in rat model of PD advocates to consider it for further preclinical and clinical evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geraniol (GE), an acyclic monoterpene, is a chief constituent of essential oils of herbs and fruits. It possesses diverse pharmacological actions like antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐apoptotic, and anti‐parkinson. However, its neuroprotective potential in stroke is yet to be explored at large. The present study evaluated the neuroprotective potential of GE against the global model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)‐injury in rats. Bilateral common carotid artery (BCCA) occlusion for 30 min followed by 7 days of reperfusion caused varied biochemical/enzymatic alterations viz. increase in levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO), xanthine oxidase (XO), and decrease in the levels of cerebroprotectives like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), total thiols, and glutathione (GSH). GE‐pretreatment markedly reversed these changes and restored the levels of protective enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants near to normal compared to I/R group. Besides, GE treatment showed marked improvement in anxiety‐related behavior and neuronal deficits in animals subjected to I/R injury. Moreover, 2,3,5‐triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC)‐stained rat brain coronal sections and histopathological studies revealed neuronal protection against I/R‐injury, as evidenced by a reduction in infarct area (%) and an increase in hippocampal CA1 neuronal density in the GE‐treated groups. The results of this study revealed that GE exhibited potential neuroprotective activity by reducing oxidative stress and infarction area, and protecting hippocampal CA1 neurons against I/R‐injury in the global stroke model in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defending phagocyte generated oxidants is the key for survival of Salmonella Typhimurium ( S. Typhimurium) inside the host. Met residues are highly prone to oxidation and convert into methionine sulfoxide (Met-SO). Methionine sulfoxide reductase (Msr) can repair Met-SO to Met thus restoring the function(s) of Met-SO containing proteins. Using pull down method we have identified several MsrA interacting proteins in the S. Typhimurium, one of them was malate synthase (MS). MS is an enzyme of glyoxylate cycle. This cycle is essential for survival of S. Typhimurium inside the host under nutrient limiting conditions. By employing in vitro cross-linking and blot overlay techniques we showed that purified MsrA interacted with pure MS. Treatment of pure malate synthase with H 2 O 2 resulted in reduction of MS activity. However, MsrA along with thioredoxin-thioredoxin reductase system partially restored the activity of oxidized MS. Our mass spectrometry data demonstrated H 2 O 2 mediated oxidation and MsrA mediated repair of Met residues in MS. Further in comparison to S. Typhimurium, the msrA gene deletion (∆ msrA ) strain showed reduced (60%) malate synthase specific activity. Oral inoculation with wild type, ∆ msrA and ∆ ms strains of S. Typhimurium resulted in colonization of 100, 0 and 40% of the poultry respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Six-min walk test (6MWT) is easy to use, the least expensive, and a quick measure of physical function and it reflects the capacity to perform our day-to-day activities hence quality of life can be assessed with 6MWT. This study was planned to assess the role of 6MWT in chronic respiratory disease patients and its association with spirometry-based functional grading at a rural tertiary care center of northern India. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study done between December 2019 and July 2021. In this study, 110 patients were included as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. 6MWT and spirometry were conducted as per the American Thoracic Society/European Research Society recommendation using Spiropalm 6MWT and the association between 6MWT and spirometry was assessed. Results: A total of 110 chronic respiratory disease patients were included in the study. There were 69 (63%) males while 41 (37%) were females. Among study participants, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were the most common 48 (43.6%) patients, followed by asthma 28 (25.5%), posttuberculosis sequelae patients 22 (20%), interstitial lung disease 9 (8.2%), and bronchiectasis 3 (2.7%) patients were found. There was a significant positive correlation of 6-min walk distance (6MWD) and % predicted 6MWD with spirometric parameters, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and there was a significant positive correlation of 6MWD with FEV1% (predicted) also. 6MWD and % predicted 6MWD negatively correlated with FEV1/FVC and association between 6MWD and FEV1/FVC was not statistically significant and between % predicted 6MWD and FEV1/FVC, it was found statistically significant. Conclusion: The 6MWD traveled by chronic respiratory disease patients was significantly lower than the predicted 6MWD and 6MWD correlated with spirometric variables well. Therefore, it can conclude that 6MWT is a useful alternative of spirometry in the management of chronic respiratory disease patients in resource-limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A response from the authors of the article "A Novel Technique for Piercing of Ear Lobule Suited to Indian Subcontinent" which discusses the Indian traditional methods of ear piercing includes wire technique and gun piercing.

The existing resistance genes against white rust disease are often ineffective due to racial variation of the causal fungal pathogen, Albugo candida. Therefore, new sources of resistance effective against multiple races are needed for durable resistance. Large-scale phenotyping of advanced introgressed (ILs), mutant, and resynthesized (RBJ) lines of Brassica juncea L., under artificial inoculation at cotyledonary and true leaf stages, against thirteen diverse isolates of Albugo candida and simultaneously at the adult plant stage under multi-location field evaluation from 2019–2022, revealed significant differences in white rust reactions. Amongst 194 introgressed lines, three lines, namely ERJ 39, ERJ 12, and ERJ 15, and three lines among 90 resynthesized and 9 mutant lines, including RBJ 18, DRMR 18-36-12, and DRMR 18-37-13, were identified as potential sources of resistance against multiple isolates at all three developmental stages of the plant. Furthermore, correlation and principal component analysis revealed a positive correlation between white rust resistance at true leaf and adult plant stages for ILs as well as mutant and RBJ lines. These novel sources of host resistance will play vital roles are required for the mustard improvement program and to establish a strong genetic and molecular foundation for identifying white rust resistance linked marker(s), QTLs, or gene(s) for sustainable disease management in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface colonization and the formation of biofilms by microbes are well acknowledged. Communities of microorganisms are coated in these biofilms, which frequently include polysaccharides, DNA, and proteins in a self-made matrix. One of the main threats to modern medicine is biofilm-associated illnesses. The extracellular polymeric substances surrounding biofilm-forming bacteria give them the ability to develop a high level of resistance to both the host immune system and conventional antibiotics. New medications that are effective against microbial biofilms are thus urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are one possibility being considered more and more in this area. AMPs have been utilized to prevent the growth of mature biofilms and to remove them. AMPs, whether organic or synthetic, have been demonstrated to inhibit microbial colonization of surfaces, eradicate bacteria from biofilms, and alter biofilms’ structure. This review discusses the severity of diseases/infections caused due to formation of microbial biofilms. Further, it describes the use and various mechanisms of AMPs against microbial biofilms by interacting with different components of biofilms. It also briefly describes the drawbacks of using AMPs against microbial biofilms and different strategies to enhance anti-biofilm activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional treatment for advanced ovarian cancer is an initial debulking surgery followed by chemotherapy combination of carboplatin and paclitaxel. Despite initial high response, three-fourths of these women experience disease recurrence with a dismal prognosis. Patients with advancedstage ovarian cancer who underwent cytoreductive surgery were enrolled and tissue samples were collected. Post surgery, these patients were started on chemotherapy and followed up till the end of the cycle. Fluorescence-based differential in-gel expression coupled with mass spectrometric analysis was used for discovery phase of experiments, and real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and pathway analysis were performed for expression and functional validation of differentially expressed proteins. While aldehyde reductase, hnRNP, cyclophilin A, heat shock protein-27, and actin are upregulated in responders, prohibitin, enoyl-coA hydratase, peroxiredoxin, and fibrin-β are upregulated in the nonresponders. The expressions of some of these proteins correlated with increased apoptotic activity in responders and decreased apoptotic activity in nonresponders. Therefore, the proteins qualify as potential biomarkers to predict chemotherapy response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic topical cases of Sporotrichosis, a chronic fungal infection caused by the ubiquitously present cryptic members of the Sporothrix species complex, are treated with oral administrations of itraconazole. However, severe pulmonary or disseminated cases require repeated intra-venous doses of amphotericin B or even surgical debridement of the infected tissue. The unavoidable adverse side-effects of the current treatments, besides the growing drug resistance among Sporothrix genus, demands exploration of alternative therapeutic options. Medicinal herbs, due to their multi-targeting capacity, are gaining popularity amidst the rising antimicrobial recalcitrance. Withania somnifera is a well-known medicinal herb with reported antifungal activities against several pathogenic fungal genera. In this study, the antifungal effect of the whole plant extract of W. somnifera (WSWE) has been explored for the first time, against an itraconazole resistant strain of S. globosa. WSWE treatment inhibited S. globosa yeast form growth in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 of 1.40 mg/ml. Minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was found to be 50 mg/ml. Sorbitol protection and ergosterol binding assays, revealed that anti-sporotrichotic effects of WSWE correlated well with the destabilization of the fungal cell wall and cell membrane. This observation was validated through dose-dependent decrease in overall ergosterol contents in WSWE-treated S. globosa cells. Compositional analysis of WSWE through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) exhibited the presence of several anti-microbial phytochemicals like withanone, withaferin A, withanolides A and B, and withanoside IV and V. Withanone and withaferin A, purified from WSWE, were 10–20 folds more potent against S. globosa than WSWE, thus, suggesting to be the major phytocompounds responsible for the observed anti-sporotrichotic activity. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the anti-sporotrichotic property of the whole plant extract of W. somnifera against S. globosa that could be further explored for the development of a natural antifungal agent against chronic Sporotrichosis. Author summary: Sporotrichosis, commonly known as 'rose gardener's disease' is a rare but chronic fungal infection caused by several pathogenic members of Sporothrix. Although rare, Sporotrichosis can spread to the lungs or whole body, and thus, could be fatal. However, due to low frequency of its occurrence, scientific research on Sporotrichosis has been rather limited. To exacerbate the situation, many Sporothrix members have developed resistance against the common anti-fungal agents used to treat fungal infections. Many medicinal herbs are being explored for their effectiveness against drug-resistant microorganisms. In this connection, the well-known medicinal plant, Withania somnifera, commonly known as Winter cherry in English and Ashwagandha in Hindi, has been explored for its anti-fungal potentials against several pathogenic fungi. However, to the best of our knowledge, anti-fungal effect of W. somnifera against Sporothrix has not been assessed yet. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the anti-fungal potentials of Withania somnifera whole plant extract (WSWE) against Sporothrix globosa, known to cause Sporotrichosis in Asia. This study demonstrated significant anti-sporotrichotic effect of WSWE, which could be further explored for developing an alternative natural treatment for Sporotrichosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibacterial potential of four lemongrass essential oils (EOs) and their major oil constituent, citral in single form and in combination of honey were evaluated against multi drug resistant (MDR) bacteriaAcinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, andStaphylococcus aureus. The antibacterial potentials determined using agar well diffusion method has revealed that Krishna EOs exhibited most potent bactericidal effects than other Eos against all MDR bacteria used. The diameter of zone of inhibition of Krishna EOs ranged from 44-50 mm/50 µL of EOs. However, EOs of Pragati and Suvarna were selectively effective againstS. aureuswhile that of Nima againstA. baumanniiandP. aeruginosa. Citral expressed better antibacterial potential against all the MDR bacteria with zone of inhibition 38-45 mm/50 µl. The combination of all four different EOs with honey showed pronounced antibacterial activity exclusively againstS. aureus. The combination of Suvarna EOs and honey showed 22 % increase in antibacterial activity againstA. baumanniithan the EOs alone. The combination of citral and honey showed significantly lower antibacterial activity as compared to citral alone against all MDR bacteria used. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of EOs determined were 4.5 µg/ml. Thus, the study revealed enhanced antibacterial potential of lemongrass EO when they are used with honey against drug resistantS. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global evidence suggests that maternal education is a crucial determinant of a child's health. The health system moderates the maternal education and child health relationship. However, there is sparse evidence on which direction health system moderates this relationship, especially in developing nations because of limited data availability. In order to address this gap in the evidence, we study this question in the Indian context, where the health system is still in a transitioning phase. We use two nationally representative surveys, the fourth round of the National Family Health Survey (2015–16) and the fourth round of the District Level Health Survey data (2012–13), to estimate the effects of maternal education and the health care system on child death and child anaemia. We map district-level data on health infrastructure and human resources information with individual-level information on health outcome, insurance, and antenatal care coverage along with other socio-economic characteristics. In accordance with global evidence, we find that maternal education remains an important determinant of child health outcomes in India too. However, the association between maternal education and child health outcomes weakens in the presence of a poor health care system. Health system improvement first benefits the already privileged in the Indian context. Yet, it should not hinder the policy focus either on the improvement of women's education or the medical care system. • Association between maternal education and child health is low in many districts. • Poor health care system weakens the effect of maternal education on child health. • Improvement in the health care system first benefits the educated women. • The unequal benefits leading to social costs should be tackled innovatively. • Public policy should continue improving the health system and maternal education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract:Kadam (Neolamarkia cadambaRoxb.) tree has wide spectrum bioactivities such as analgesic, antipyretic, anti inflammatory hypolipidemic and antidiabetic. However, very little is known about its antioxidant properties. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to investigate phyto-constitution and antioxidant properties of leaves and fruits ofN. cadamba. Extracts of the leaves and fruits prepared with methanol and hexane were used to investigate phyto-constituents and antioxidant properties. Antioxidant properties were assessed by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and riboflavin-light NBT assay systems. Metal ion chelating and reducing potential were determined by ferrous iron-ferrozine complex and potassium ferricyanide methods. The contents of phenolics, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins measured in leaf methanol extract were 48.0 mgGAE/g DW, 103.3 mgQE/g DW and 106.0 mg CE/g DW, whereas in fruit methanol extracts significantly lower with values 18.0, 15.4 and 47.6, respectively. Both leaf and fruit extracts exhibited strong DPPH radical- scavenging and Fe2+ chelating activities. However, superoxide anion scavenging activity of the fruit extract was much higher than leaf extract. Correlation analysis has revealed that antioxidant properties of leaf and fruit extract were correlated with their phenolics content. Antioxidant properties were similar to those of standard antioxidants used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an experimental and atomic-scale simulation-based investigation has been performed to investigate the possible stability of the nano-crystalline structure and thereby considerable strength at a higher temperature in the case of synthesised Cu alloy along with logical understanding. Dispersions of high melting BCC metal (1 at% W) in nanostructured Cu is achieved using conveniently scalable cryomilling followed by hot pressing (at 550 °C). The thermal stability (till 800 °C) of grain size in synthesised nano-crystalline Cu alloy has been examined through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The nano-sized W particles dispersed at the Cu matrix grain boundaries, restricting grain growth by Zener pinning even after annealing was carried out at 800 °C. The hot-pressed pellets of nanocrystalline Cu99W1 alloy with a nearly uniform distribution of W particles have exhibited higher hardness than pure Cu and increased in strength and strain to failure up to 10% and 46%, respectively. The improvement in mechanical properties is further rationalised by the Molecular Dynamics (MD) based simulation findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilzeck] is one of the most important pulse crops and grown in almost all parts of the India. Web blight/wet root rot disease of mungbean is caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kühn. Crop environmental factors plays a vital role in the development of web blight disease caused by R. solani. An understanding of the role of environmental factors on the infection and survival of the pathogen is necessary to develop disease management practices. Methods: The effect of different temperatures (4°C, 20°C, 25°C, 30°C and 35°C) on mycelial growth of seven different R. solani isolates belonging to different anastomosis group were evaluated under in vitro conditions. Effect of different temperatures on the development of root rot/web blight disease of mungbean was also evaluated under phytotron conditions at various temperatures with constant relative humidity (85%) and illumination (alternate dark and light period of 12 h). Effect of temperatures on the expression of selected pathogenicity related genes was evaluated through real time PCR. Result: Maximum radial growth in R. solani isolates was observed at 25 and 30°C after 48 hrs of incubation. Maximum disease incidence was observed with R. solani isolate RUPU-18 (73.11%) followed by R-17 (68.75%), RDLM-1 (63.45%) at 25°C on mungbean genotype Pusa Vishal. Expression of genes like ABC transporter was observed only at 35°C, while other genes like 1, 3 glucan hydrolase expressed maximum at 25°C after 24, 48 and 72 hrs post inoculation. Present study suggested that the expression of pathogenicity related genes in mungbean-R. solani system is dependent on the temperature and time interval post pathogen inoculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakanae caused by Fusarium fujikuroi (Nirenberg), is emerging as a serious threat for rice (Oryza sativa. L.) cultivation in India. In this study, 63 isolates of Fusarium fujikuroi isolated from symptomatic diseased plants were characterized for their morphology, pathogenicity and molecular variability using universal rice primers (URP). Of the 12 URPs used in the study, 6 primers could produce polymorphic fragments in all the isolates. The URP 17R primer was highly polymorphic (100%), whereas, the URP 1F primer produced 75% polymorphic fragments. A dendrogram obtained from the combined analysis of 6 URP primers categorized the isolates into four clusters, where most of the isolates from Punjab and Haryana were clustered separately. Mating type of the population was identified based on MAT-1 and MAT-2 region universal primers for Gibberella fujikuroi. Among the 63 isolates, 18 (28.57%) were identified as MAT-1 and 45 (71.42%) as MAT-2. The effective population number for mating type was 89% of the total population. Since the distribution frequencies of both mating types were not equal in the Indian population of F. fujikuroi, it could conclude that majority of the multiplication of isolates under field conditions was through asexual reproduction. However, the presence of both mating types in F. fujikuroi indicates that the population is also capable of sexual reproduction. Therefore, it is important to develop cultivars with inbuilt resistance to bakanae disease, taking into consideration the factors such as environmental conditions and variability of the pathogen in the area of intended cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical application of preoperative imaging evaluation in the anterolateral thigh flap transplantation: comparison of computed tomography angiography, digital subtract angiography and magnetic resonance angiography. Anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is currently the workhorse flap in many centers as it provides variable reconstructive options. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal connections between arterial feeding vessels and draining veins, devoid of a normal capillary bed. Treatment options include complete surgical excision or eradication. Following surgical excision, the defect can be closed primarily or covered with the preplanned local flap or skin graft. We aimed to assess various cases of AVMs and review the current literature to determine a treatment rationale and improve surgical outcomes.Methods: A retrospective study including data of 21 patients with extra cranial scalp AVMs was carried out at our institute between 2010 and 2016. Fourteen patients underwent digital subtraction angiography; remaining patients were evaluated by MR/CT angiography. Eighteen patients underwent direct excision. Three patients with large AVMs (> 10 cm) underwent preoperative embolization followed by surgical excision.Results: Of the 21 patients with extra cranial scalp AVMs, there were 11 males and 10 females with mean age of 24 years ranging from 3 to 41 years. The mean duration of symptom was 6.7 years. Superficial temporal artery (62%) was the most commonly involved feeder vessel. Eighteen patients underwent direct excision while three underwent embolization followed by excision. Two patients had recurrence of symptoms. There was partial flap necrosis in three patients which were managed with dressings and skin graft.Conclusions: Surgical excision of AVMs, which includes ligation of all arterial feeders near the nidus and excision of nidus, is a safe option with lesser complications and gives good results. Preoperative embolization reduces vascularity and helps in easy identification of AVMs during surgery thus achieving complete excision and improving the prognosis of treatment especially in the large AVM.Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]