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High tilt angle (45 °) ferroelectric liquid crystal (F L C) in surface stabilized geometry, having no chiral smectic A (S m A ∗) phase, has been studied for the reorientation of the smectic layers near the transition temperature (T c). The electro-optical studies have shown the stripe domain formation in which the liquid crystal molecules are aligned along the rubbing direction, but the smectic layers are tilted away from the rubbing direction at room temperature. In such high tilt angle F L C s , the molecular alignment and smectic layer formation start from bottom and top rubbed grooves at T c. The domain formation of the FLC takes place in the middle of the top and bottom surfaces due to the frustration of the dipolar interaction. The smectic layer switching is observed by optical microscopy and confirmed by the dielectric spectroscopy method near T c of S m C ∗ and chiral nematic phases. Domain switching has shown a larger switching angle than the molecular tilt angle within the smectic layer. These studies are expected to be significant for understanding the smectic layer structure and the domain switching process, which may pave the way for large optical switching devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strongly correlated electron systems are a cornerstone of modern physics, being responsible for groundbreaking phenomena from superconducting magnets to quantum computing. In most cases, correlations in electrons arise exclusively because of Coulomb interactions. In this work, we reveal that free electrons interacting simultaneously with a light field can become highly correlated via mechanisms beyond Coulomb interactions. In the case of two electrons, the resulting Pearson correlation coefficient for the joint probability distribution of the output electron energies is enhanced by more than 13 orders of magnitude compared to that of electrons interacting with the light field in succession (one after another). These highly correlated electrons are the result of momentum and energy exchange between the participating electrons via the external quantum light field. Our findings pave the way to the creation and control of highly correlated free electrons for applications including quantum information and ultrafast imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of peripheral nerve injuries is an important concern due to the their incidence of nerve lesions and inappropriate regeneration that follows severe injuries, which ultimately reduces the lives of patients with this condition. Different strategies have been investigated to repair severe nerve injuries with the improvement of motor and sensory regeneration. Although autograft remains the gold standard technique, an emerging number of research articles concerning nerve conduit use have been reported in the last few years. Nerve conduits aim to overcome autograft disadvantages, but they satisfy some requirements to be suitable for nerve repair. A universal ideal conduit does not exist since conduit properties have to be evaluated case by case; nevertheless, because of their high biocompatibility and biodegradability, natural‐based biomaterials have great potential to be used to produce nerve guides. Although they have many characteristics with synthetic biomaterials, natural‐based biomaterials are preferable because of their extraction sources; indeed, these biomaterials are obtained from different renewable sources or food waste, thus reducing environmental impact and enhancing sustainability in comparison to synthetic ones. This review highlights the recent progress in the development of natural‐based biomaterials and their derivatives for the management of peripheral nerve injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose Altered levels of consciousness resulting from a vascular insult to the brain can vary from confusion to coma. A disruption in the function of the brain stem reticular activating system in the brain stem or both cerebral hemispheres and thalami causes coma. This study is aimed at finding the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on motor recovery in altered conscious patients after traumatic brain injury and cerebrovascular accident. Materials and Methods A total of 100 patients admitted to the neurology and neurosurgery unit of the university hospital were screened and 40 subjects who satisfied inclusion criteria were recruited and randomly divided into two groups, group A (experimental; n = 20) and group B (control; n = 20), by computerized randomization. Written informed consent was taken from all the caregivers before recruitment. After taking the preliminary assessment, anodal tDCS is given to the motor area (C3/C4 ipsilesional), sensory area (P3/P4 ipsilesional), and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (F3) according to the 10/20 electroencephalogram montage for two sessions of 20 min/day for 7 consecutive days. Routine physiotherapy was also given the same as group B. Results At baseline, there were no significant group differences in the baseline characteristics. The groups passed the normality test. The results were tested for statistical significance between the groups by Mann–Whitney U -test and by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey Honest Significant Difference for post-hoc comparison; the results were statistically different with p -value less than 0.05 with a large effect size. Conclusion We conclude, based on the results of this study, that tDCS can be effective in motor recovery in altered consciousness patients. It is noninvasive, cost-effective with minimal contraindications, and does not interfere with other modalities in the intensive care unit. Hence, it can be administered safely under the supervision of a qualified therapist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The anaesthetic agents can affect the quality of motor-evoked potential intraoperatively as they inhibit synaptic transmission. Intravenous anaesthetics suppress motor-evoked potential lesser than inhalational agents, so total intravenous anaesthesia or a combination of intravenous with minimal inhalational anaesthetic supplementation is used when motor-evoked potential is monitored. Motor-evoked potential can get depressed at high doses of propofol required to maintain surgical depth, hence, adjuvant agents like dexmedetomidine that maintain anaesthetic depth without affecting the motor-evoked potential are often required. This study was a prospective non-randomized and comparative study (quasi-experimental) assigned into two groups of 64 each, labelled as the propofol group (group P) and Propofol + dexmedetomidine group (group PD). The primary objective of our study was to compare the total dose reduction of propofol with the addition of dexmedetomidine and their interference with motor-evoked potential readings. The secondary objective was to assess the hemodynamic changes, changes in amplitude and latency of motor-evoked potential, and complications if any. Results: The mean total dose of propofol consumed in our study was 502.81 ± 71.01 mg in group propofol(P) and 392.18 ± 59.00 mg in group propofol + dexmedetomidine (PD). Moreover, the mean total dose of propofol (mg) was significantly less used in group PD. Intraoperative hemodynamic stability, no difference in amplitude and latency for motor-evoked potential, and only significant bradycardia in group propofol + dexmedetomidine (PD). Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine can be successfully used in propofol-based total intravenous anaesthesia for motor-evoked potential monitoring in spine surgeries, but it is better to maintain stable hemodynamics with a significant reduction of the mean dose of propofol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constitutive relations and governing equations have been developed for an elastic–plastic material with voids having single slip-plane and direction. The plasticity of the material is considered through the dislocation of slip-plane. The propagation of unidirectional plane waves has been explored in an infinite elastic–plastic material with voids, and it has been found that there exist four basic waves consisting of three coupled elastic–plastic waves and a lone transverse wave. The speeds of propagation of all the coupled elastic–plastic waves are found to be affected by the plasticity and void parameters, in general, while the transverse wave is not affected by the plasticity and void parameters at all and travels with the speed of classical transverse waves. Out of the three coupled elastic–plastic waves, two waves are the counterpart of the waves existing in elastic materials with voids, while the third wave is new and has appeared due to the presence of plasticity in the material. One of the coupled elastic–plastic waves that is least affected by the plasticity faces a critical frequency, below which the wave is a nonpropagating wave. This critical frequency arises due to the presence of voids in the medium. The speed of various waves is computed for a specific model and the results that are obtained are presented graphically. At large frequencies, all the coupled elastic–plastic waves propagate with constant speeds, but at low frequencies, they propagate with speeds less than that of the longitudinal wave of classical elasticity. Several earlier known results have been recovered as special cases from the present formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports a novel "divide and conquer" approach to estimate the principal thermal conductivities of an orthotropic material, specifically engineered with a view to demonstrate the potency of the inverse heat transfer method with unsteady temperature data. The sample is placed in a vacuum chamber maintained at a pressure of 8.6 × 10 − 7 mbar. The heat capacity of the engineered orthotropic material was determined via estimating the heat capacity of a solid SS304 in a sequential fashion. First steady-state experiments followed by a Bayesian estimation with the Metropolis Hastings-Markov Chain Monte Carlo method were done to obtain the thermal conductivity of a solid SS304 block. Using this as a prior, the heat capacity of solid SS304 was obtained through unsteady experiments followed by Bayesian estimation. The heat capacity of SS304 thus obtained is multiplied by the solidity of the engineered orthotropic material, and using this information, the three components of the orthotropic conductivity are estimated again using the Bayesian route. To expedite the estimation, a surrogate for the forward model was developed using artificial neural network. Finally, the retrieved parameters are used to determine the simulated temperatures through the forward model for the orthotropic material. These, when compared with the measured temperatures, gave excellent agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an inverse methodology to estimate the parameters of the non-uniform heat generation (function estimation) within a flat plate assembly using steady-state conjugate heat transfer experiments on the flat plate assembly. Steady-state laminar conjugate forced convection experiments on a flat plate assembly are conducted on a horizontal wind tunnel to estimate the parameters of the non-uniform heat generation within flat plate assembly using the inverse methodology. Bayesian inference based Metropolis Hastings–Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MH–MCMC) algorithm and experimental temperatures are employed in the inverse methodology. The experimental temperatures are measured at convenient locations of the flat plate assembly using liquid crystal thermography. In order to accomplish the retrieval, first, steady-state experiments on only the cork material are conducted to estimate the thermal conductivity of the cork material accurately for use in the estimation of the heat generation rate so that the additional error due to uncertainty in the thermal conductivity of the cork material does not affect our final goal of estimating heat generation rate. Following this, steady-state experiments on the cork setup (consisting of a non-uniform heat generation heater and two symmetric cork plates) are conducted to ascertain the nature of heat generation of the heater using measured temperatures and fundamental rate laws. The priors are generated using coupled artificial neural network (ANN) and Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) algorithm for Bayesian inference. Using the Bayesian inference with priors, the parameters of non-uniform heat generation are then estimated in terms of the mean, maximum a posteriori with standard deviation. Finally, the simulated heat powers and temperatures are estimated with retrieved parameters of the non-uniform heat generation. These compared very well with the measured heat powers and temperatures. Finally, a recipe for solving a practical problem, in which only measured temperatures are available, is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a general framework for quantum interference between processes that can involve different fundamental particles or quasi‐particles. This framework shows that shaping input wavefunctions is a versatile and powerful tool for producing and controlling quantum interference between distinguishable pathways, beyond previously explored quantum interference between indistinguishable pathways. Two examples of quantum interference enabled by shaping in interactions between free electrons, bound electrons, and photons are presented: i) the vanishing of the zero‐loss peak by destructive quantum interference when a shaped electron wavepacket couples to light, under conditions where the electron's zero‐loss peak otherwise dominates; ii) quantum interference between free electron and atomic (bound electron) spontaneous emission processes, which can be significant even when the free electron and atom are far apart, breaking the common notion that a free electron and an atom must be close by to significantly affect each other's processes. Conclusions show that emerging quantum wave‐shaping techniques unlock the door to greater versatility in light‐matter interactions and other quantum processes in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Osteoarthritis patients often suffer from anxiety which can affect the disease prognosis. This study is aimed at assessing the various psychological dimensions in different joint arthritic subjects of the rural population and finding the most common joint arthritis that can lead to anxiety in the rural population. Materials & methods: A total of 252 subjects satisfied the inclusion criteria and were recruited for the study after written informed consent and were asked to fill in the GPS online through Google forms. The "feelings" subscale assesses the patient's psychological stress due to pain and disease. The psychological dimensions of sub-section feelings of GPS were analyzed by one-way ANOVA to assess whether there is a difference on average in the scores among the three groups at a p < 0.05 significant level. Tukey HSD was used for post hoc pairwise comparisons. Results: One-way ANOVA results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the groups for fear, level of anxiety, depression, stress, and fatigue. Tukey HSD post hoc comparison revealed that the results were statistically significant for fear (Q = 3.35, p = 0.04) and fatigue levels (Q = 3.69, p = 0.02). The Tukey HSD post hoc comparison for levels of anxiety, depression, and stress was not statistically significant. Conclusion: From this study, we conclude that anxiety, fatigue, and fear are highly prevalent in hip osteoarthritis. Anxiety is associated with all joint osteoarthritis and can result in poor quality of living. We recommend physicians to emphasize psychological dimensions and address them at an early stage in order to achieve a better prognosis in degenerative joint diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maraging steel 300 is widely used in aircraft, tools, and automotive industries, which requires a polished surface for better performance. In conventional methods of polishing, the abrasives directly contact the workpiece surface and deteriorate its property. Thus, a nonconventional method like electropolishing (EP), is utilized to finish maraging steel with acetic acid and perchloric acid mixed in the volume of 3:1. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) is performed to determine the passive region that gives the best electropolishing performance. Different parameters, namely temperature, agitation, and polishing time and their effect on surface roughness and surface reflectance, are observed during EP. The optimized process parameters, which give the best EP performance, are the temperature at 60 ∘ C , rotation of magnetic stirrer at 400 rpm, and polishing time of 6 min. An improvement of 56.25% in surface roughness and 60.3% in surface reflectance from its initial value of 21% is observed. EP makes the surface hydrophilic as the contact angle changes from 111.2 to 68.6°. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis suggests that after EP, thick passive layer forms on the surface, which helps in increasing corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propagation of Lamb waves has been studied in an infinite plate of finite thickness and composed of elastic–plastic material containing void pores. The plastic deformation in the plate material is considered through a single-plane and direction. Assuming a linear relation between the elastic and plastic parts of the change in void volume fraction and using the stress-free boundary surfaces of the plate, the dispersion relations corresponding to the symmetric and antisymmetric vibrations with respect to the mid-plane of the plate are derived. The corresponding dispersion relations of Lamb modes in the elastic–plastic plate have been reduced by neglecting the presence of voids. Some earlier known results are recovered from the present formulation under particular cases. The behaviour of symmetric and antisymmetric family of Lamb modes are depicted pictorially against the frequency, slip-angle, thickness of the plate and void parameters in a specific plate material. It is found that the plasticity and the presence of the voids in the plate material affect the propagation of Lamb modes. In particular, at the slip-angle |$45^o$|⁠ , the |$S_0$| - and |$A_0$| - modes exhibit symmetry, but |$S_0$| is bell shaped and |$A_0$| is parabolic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Modulation in dielectric relaxations of ferroelectric liquid crystal (SCE9) by the dopant bent-core mesogen derived from the oxadiazole bisaniline moiety. • Dielectric studies confirm modulation in Goldstone mode, p-UHM and soft mode of ferroelectric liquid crystal by dopant bent-core mesogen. • SmC*-SmA* phase transition of ferroelectric liquid crystal is highly dependent on concentration of dopant bent-core mesogen. The modulation in dielectric relaxations of a conventional ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC, SCE9) material by doping the bent-core mesogen (BCM) derived from the oxadiazole bisaniline moiety has been greatly investigated using frequency-temperature dependent dielectric spectroscopy. The application of probing ac voltage (i.e., oscillating voltage, 800 mV) has clearly shown the presence of partially unwound helical mode (p -UHM) along with Goldstone mode (GM). However, the temperature-dependent dielectric studies further demonstrate that p -UHM gets merged with GM at higher temperatures and hence becomes difficult to observe it separately. It appears that doping of BCM into FLC leads to the suppression of p -UHM at lower temperature, but with the increase in the concentration of dopant beyond a certain point, p -UHM mode reappears. Moreover, the significant decrement (∼9 °C) in SmC*-SmA* phase transition temperature of FLC with increase in the dopant BCM concentration up to 3 wt%. We believe that such studies would be certainly useful for the understanding of the plausible interaction between two different shaped mesogens (i.e., rod and bent-core) present in the mixture and could pave the way forward to the use of one type of mesogen in the modulation of the dielectric properties of other mesogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing stringent requirements, the requirement to produce ultra-clean steel is also increasing. The Ruhrstahl–Heraeus (RH) degasser plays an important role in ultra-clean steel production process by removing the dissolved gases from the molten steel by introducing a re-circulatory motion through a vacuum chamber. The de-gassing in RH vessel is a complex fluid dynamics-controlled process involving interaction between many process parameters. RH vessel performance during the campaign also gets affected due to nozzle blockages and refractory erosion. A detailed combined parametric study was required to understand the flow pattern of argon and molten steel and its effect on refractory wear with varying conditions during the campaign. In the present work, an Eulerian–Eulerian multiphase-based CFD model has been developed to simulate molten steel flow and argon gas distribution inside an industrial RH degasser. The model was validated and used to conduct the parametric study based on the plant operational conditions by varying the argon gas flow rate, snorkel diameter, snorkel immersion depth, nozzle blockage conditions and bottom purging in the ladle. The model indicated an increase in metal circulation rate with increasing argon flow rate but simultaneously leading to increased refractory wear in the upper snorkel area. Increasing snorkel diameter and immersion depth increases the circulation rate and shifts the erosion position towards the vacuum chamber. Maintaining a higher diameter for the up-snorkel improves process performance with lesser refractory wear. Different nozzle blockage conditions result in different circulating flow profiles where the re-circulation rate during treatment is more affected by unsymmetrical and lower nozzle blockage. Bottom purging in the ladle during the treatment leads to open eye formation affecting the steel quality. The developed model can be a valuable tool for optimising the process parameters, improving the RH degasser performance, and ensuring higher refractory life during RH treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cobalt-doped TiO 2 on activated carbon prepared via hydrothermal synthesis. • The CT@AC nanocomposite effectively degrades 20 mgL−1 phenol solution (∼100 %). • The presence of interfering ions glycine, CuSO 4 , Cd(NO 3) 2 , EDTA hinders phenol degradation. • GC–MS confirms phenol degradation yields formic acid, CO 2 , and water as end products. Co-doped TiO 2 supported on activated carbon (CT@AC) nanocomposite was prepared via a hydrothermal approach. The nanocomposite was characterized by various analytical methods like FT-IR, UV–vis DRS, SEM-EDX, photoluminescence (PL) and XRD. The visible light active nanocomposite was utilized for the degradation of phenol from an aqueous solution. The findings suggested that the introduction of Co2+ ions enhances the photocatalytic activity under visible light, enhances the surface area of the nanocomposite, decreases the bandgap energy, reduces recombination rate, and enhances the efficiency of transferring photogenerated electrons. The degradation efficiency with 0.35 g of the Co-doped TiO 2 /Activated carbon nanocomposite was found to have a catalytic rate of ∼100 % for 20 mgL−1 phenol solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dispersion equation is derived for the propagation of one-dimensional plane waves in a general linear anisotropic isothermal elastic–plastic material with voids. The plasticity of the considered material is defined through the dislocation of a single slip plane and direction. The derived dispersion equation is then reduced for the relevant wave propagation in particular media, namely, monoclinic, orthotropic, transversely isotropic, and isotropic elastic–plastic material with voids. In general, it is found that there exist four basic waves traveling with distinct speeds in these specific anisotropic elastic–plastic materials with voids. A new wave is found to appear because of the presence of plasticity in the material. Out of the four basic waves traveling in an orthotropic/transversely isotropic material with voids, a wave travels independent of plasticity and void parameters, whereas the remaining three waves depend on plasticity as well as on the presence of voids. The one which is traveling independent of plasticity and voids is nondispersive and nonattenuating, whereas the other waves are dispersive in nature. The speeds of all the existing waves are computed numerically for a specific model, displayed graphically, and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reflection behavior of a set of coupled longitudinal/transverse waves incident obliquely at the flat boundary surface of a nonlocal micropolar thermoelastic half-space containing voids is investigated. Appropriate boundary conditions are setup for mechanically stress-free and thermally insulated boundary surface of the half-space. The equations yielding the reflection coefficients and the expressions of corresponding energy ratios of various reflected waves are presented. The nature of dependence of the reflection coefficients and their corresponding energy ratios against the angle of incidence is studied numerically for a specific model. Effect of several parameters on the reflection coefficients as well as on the corresponding energy ratios is noticed and depicted graphically. It is found that the sum of the energy ratios is approximately equal to unity at each angle of incidence. Some earlier known results are also recovered as special cases of the present formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) can be considered one of the frontline coating materials for high-speed cutting tools owing to both abrasion resistance and solid lubricant properties. However, coating thickness increases the edge radius of the micro tools, which may result in adverse rubbing and plowing that need to be investigated. In this work, DLC coatings of 440, 640, and 1160 nm thicknesses with a ∼250 nm Cr interlayer are deposited on WC micro-end mills using a cathodic-arc system. DLC-coated surfaces exhibited enhanced tribological and mechanical properties compared to uncoated surfaces. Among the DLC-coated micro-end mills, the DLC-640 nm coated tool outperformed, manifesting the best machining performance by reducing friction and size effects together. • Cathodic arc system used for DLC coating of different thicknesses on micro end mill. • Hardness, COF and composition characterization carried out on the coated surfaces. • DLC-coated surfaces exhibited enhanced tribological and mechanical properties. • DLC-coated tools showed better tool wear resistance and other machining performance. • DLC-640 nm coated tool outperformed by reducing friction and size effects together. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Both crystalloids and colloid preloading is recommended for spinal anaesthesia. Preloading of intravenous fluids increases circulating volume and cardiac output; thus preventing spinal anaesthesia-induced hypotension. Crystalloids have a short intravascular half-life, poor plasma expanders and large volumes are thus required. Aim: To compare the efficacy of 5 mL/kg of 6% Hetastarch (colloid) to that of 15 mL/kg of Plasmalyte (crystalloid) solution to prevent hypotension during spinal anaesthesia in patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries. Materials and Methods: This was a randomised clinical trial from June 2016 to April 2017 on a total 80 patients, belonging to American Society of Anaesthesiologist (ASA) Grade I and II scheduled for lower abdominal surgeries under spinal anaesthesia. They were divided into two groups-Group H and Group P. Patients in group H were preloaded with 5 mL/kg solution of 6% Hetastarch, whereas those in group P were preloaded with 15 mL/kg of Plasmalyte solution. After institution of spinal anaesthesia with 3.0 mL of hyperbaric Bupivacaine using 25G Quincke's needle, Blood Pressure (BP) and other vital parameters were monitored intraoperatively every 3 minutes for first 30 minutes and then every 5 minutes till the end of surgery. Descriptive statistics, frequency (n) and percentages (%) were calculated and the variables between the groups were compared by Students t-test, Fischers exact test and Mann Whitney U-test. Results: Both the groups showed a fall in Mean Blood Pressure (MBP) immediately after the block. Group P showed more decline in MBP and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) after the block and the difference was statistically significant at 9, 12, 15, 18 and 21 minute (p-value <0.05). A 30% patients in group P as comparison to 10% in Group H required ephedrine for the treatment of hypotension and found significant (p-value=0.025). Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), pulse rate changes and nausea and vomiting among both groups was non-significant (p-value >0.05). Conclusion: Pre-loading with 5ml/kg of 6% Hetastarch is more effective than 15ml/kg of Plasmalyte in preventing hypotension in patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries under spinal anaesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a case of a young man with symmetrical peripheral gangrene (SPG) resulting from Streptococcus viridans-related infective endocarditis, an association which has not previously been reported. SPG is associated with up to 40% mortality and may necessitate amputation; early identification and treatment of the precipitating factors is very important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 29-year-old man with a history of intermittent chest pain for the last 2 years radiating to the left arm without any relationship to exertion. Topics include cardiovascular and respiratory examination not revealing any significant abnormality; and computed tomography angiography demonstrating the absence of RPA and a diverticulum of the right brachiocephalic .

Background/Aims: Stroke is a common, serious and disabling condition. There is a need for early rehabilitation to cut the long-term ill effects of stroke and to maximise functional recovery. This study aimed to assess the effect of Erigo tilt table training on muscle strength and quality of life in individuals who have survived a stroke. Methods: A total of 133 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to receive conventional physiotherapy (group A) or Erigo tilt table training (group B). Both groups underwent an intervention programme lasting 30 days. Quality of life and muscle strength were assessed at baseline (day 0), at the end of the intervention (day 30) and at follow up (day 90). Results: Overall, 110 patients completed the study: 55 in group A and 55 in group B. Quality of life and muscle strength significantly improved between baseline and follow up with both interventions. Group A's quality of life and upper and lower muscle strength scores increased from 75, 0.57 and 1.0 at baseline to 89, 3.0 and 3.5 at follow up, respectively; while group B's scores increased from 75, 1.35 and 1.43 at baseline to 102, 3.0 and 3.64 at follow up. The Erigo tilt table resulted in significantly greater improvements than conventional physiotherapy (P<0.01). Conclusions: The Erigo tilt-table could be valuable tool in the early rehabilitation of patients with acute hemiplegia as it improves muscle strength and quality of life to a greater extent than conventional physiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constitutive relations and field equations are developed for an isotropic linear micropolar thermoelastic material with voids within the context of Eringen's theory of nonlocal elasticity. It is found that six plane waves may propagate in this medium consisting of four sets of coupled dilatational waves and two sets of coupled transverse waves. All the waves are found to be affected by the nonlocality of the medium, however, the sets of coupled transverse waves do not depend on the presence of thermal and void parameters in the medium. The dispersion relation yielding the speeds of coupled dilatational waves is analyzed, in particular, and several earlier known results are recovered from the present formulation. Numerical computations for a specific material are performed to clarify the effects of wave characteristics in detail. The computational results are displayed through graphs and explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land suitability analysis is a necessity to achieve sustainable agricultural productivity with the optimum utilization of the available resources. Lack of proper knowledge on the best combination of factors that suit production of rice and wheat has contributed to low production in the Sone river command, Bihar. The aim of this study is to develop land suitability maps for rice and wheat crop based on physical, chemical and climatic factors of production using a multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) and Geographic Information System (GIS) approach. Biophysical variables of soil, climate and topography have been considered for suitability analysis. This work also evaluates the impact of climate change (CC) on cropland suitability for rice and wheat crops. Climatic variable scenarios of rainfall were obtained from four GCMs (CAN-ESM2, MPI-ESM-MR, CSIRO, CMCC-CMS) for three future time slices (2011–2040, 2041–2070, 2071–2100) of representative concentration pathways (RCP) RCP 2.6, RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. The observation data (1985–2011) from IMD Pune from 8 meteorological stations were used as the current baseline climatic data of rainfall, which is used to validate the cropland suitability model. The results of CC indicate that there is a significant variability in the distribution of rainfall in the projected period 2011–2100 with respect to the baseline period. The results also show a concomitant increase in the projected crop suitability area of wheat from 17 to 35% and decrease in area for rice from 31 to 21% when compared with baseline for highly suitable area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The summary explores the newly emerging area of employing proteins and peptides derived from blue foods to address the intricacies associated with neurological conditions. Considering the increasing prevalence of these diseases, there is a growing interest in investigating innovative therapy strategies. In this context, blue foods have emerged as a potentially promising area of study. Marine-derived sources, such as microscopic algae, seafood, and crustaceans, offer various bioactive chemicals that possess potential neurological advantages. The review that follows gives a general summary of the many bioactive proteins and peptides included in blue foods, which have exhibited neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties in preclinical investigations. The review also explores the potential pathways via which these chemicals may exhibit positive impacts on neurological conditions including their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic actions. The summary elucidates some of the challenges associated with the successful acquisition and extraction of these chemicals, while simultaneously preserving their bioactivity. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of conducting comprehensive scientific investigations to ensure their effectiveness and safety in promoting neurological well-being in humans. In summary, the paper emphasizes the substantial upside potential of proteins and peptides derived from blue food sources as an important strategy in the search for novel therapies for neurological disorders. [Display omitted] • Blue foods hold promise as sources of beneficial proteins and peptides for neurological well-being. • Bioactive compounds in blue foods show potential in supporting brain health and addressing neurological disorders. • Antioxidant properties of these compounds could contribute to neuroprotection and disease prevention. • The emerging field explores blue food-based interventions for conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. • Sustainable sourcing and technological advances are driving the development of blue food-derived neurotherapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke, either haemorrhagic or ischemic in nature, has the ability to culminate in devastating clinical outcomes thus effective rehabilitation is needed. Objective: To analyze the efficacy of Erigo tilt-table over conventional physiotherapy between ischemic and haemorrhagic stroke patients. Methods: A total of 110 haemorrhagic and ischemic stroke patients (age 5 1. 0 8 ± 7. 4 8 years, 8. 6 9 ± 4. 6 2 days after stroke) were assigned randomly into four groups, haemorrhagic conventional physiotherapy group (n = 3 3), haemorrhagic Erigo tilt-table group (n = 2 7), ischemic conventional physiotherapy group (n = 2 2) and ischemic Erigo tilt-table group (n = 2 8). The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Mini Mental Scale Examination (MMSE), Modified Ashworth Scale, Quality of Life (QOL) and muscle strength outcomes were assessed at baseline, after the intervention (30th) and on 90th day of follow up. Results: In haemorrhagic Subjects, Erigo tilt-table patients had significant improvement (P < 0. 0 5) in outcome variables NIHSS, Ashworth, QOL, absolute upper and lower limb strength except for MMS as compared to Conventional Physiotherapy Group. Whereas in ischemic Subjects, there was no statistically significant difference between both groups(P > 0. 0 5) on 30th as well as on 90th day comparison. Conclusions: Erigo tilt-table training are found to be effective than conventional physiotherapy in haemorrhagic stroke whereas in ischemic stroke both the interventions are equally effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Prospective observational study. Purpose: To evaluate the disability domains relevant to Indian patients with low backache and propose a modified disability questionnaire for such patients. Overview of Literature: The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) is a self-reported measurement tool that measures both pain and functional status and is used for evaluating disability caused by lower backache. Although ODI remains a good tool for disability assessment, from the Indian perspective questions related to weight lifting and sexual activity of ODI are questioned in some of the earlier studies. Activities of daily living in Indian patients vary substantially from those in other populations and include activities like bending forwards, sitting in floor and squatting which are not represented in the ODI. Methods: In this prospective observational study, a seven-step approach was used for the development of a questionnaire. Thirty patients were interviewed to identify the most challenging issue they faced while performing their daily activities (by free listing) and understand how important the questionnaire items were in terms of the standard ODI. Thus, a comprehensive disability questionnaire comprising 14 questions was developed and administered to 88 patients. Both qualitative (interviews) and quantitative methods (to establish the validity, reliability, and correlation with the Visual Analog Scale [VAS] and Rolland Morris disability questionnaire) were used to identify the 10 questions that best addressed the disability domains relevant to Indian patients. Results: According to free listing, four new questions pertaining to bending forward, sitting on the floor, walking on uneven surfaces, and work-related disabilities were included. In the second phase, wherein the questionnaire with 14 items was used, 56.8% patients did not answer the questions related to sexual activity, whereas 23.8% did not answer those related to walking on uneven surfaces. The modified questionnaire demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.892) and correlation with the Rolland Morris questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha=0.850, p >0.05), as well as with the VAS score for disability (Cronbach's alpha=0.712, p >0.05) and pain (Cronbach's alpha=0.625, p >0.05). Conclusions: A modified disability questionnaire that was designed by adding two questions related to bending forward and work status and removing questions related to sexual activity and weight lifting or traveling (depending on the occupation) can help evaluate disability caused by back pain in Indian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental work is aimed at characterizing the effect of scraper board (SB) in reducing the rotating air layer around a grinding wheel and introducing the better method of application of scraper board and fluid delivery into the grinding zone. Zero pressure at the grinding zone is reported to achieve by placing the scraper board at an optimal location along the wheel periphery. The grinding ratio improved by 35.6% and 119%, surface roughness decreased by 36% and 54.2% while the requirement of specific energy is reduced by 50.8% and 57.3% when scraper board is positioned at the critical distance in comparison to the 57.5° position and no scraper board respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tribal women entrepreneurship has gained significant attention in recent years as a means to empower women from indigenous communities and foster sustainable development within their societies. However, with the recognition of their unique skills, knowledge, and cultural heritage, tribal women are increasingly embracing entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic self-sufficiency and empowerment. Our research analysed bibliometric data from 2002 to 2023 to see how the field of study on tribal women entrepreneurs has evolved. This study looked at a wide range of factors, including publication details, authorship details, country of origin, and author-related keywords. The R studio Bibliometrix programme was used to make the visuals. The annual output of publications increased by 9.82% after the COVID-19 pandemic, and there was a notable increase in the number of publications on tribal women entrepreneurship. Possible causes include supportive technological development, a thriving environment for new businesses, and government initiatives. India and the United States have produced the most comprehensive studies of entrepreneurship followed by the United Kingdom, but researchers from all over the world have worked together on similar projects. This study has shown that there has been a significant increase in entrepreneurial research activity, as well as demonstrating the breadth and interdisciplinary character of this research. However, more work needs to be carried out to bring together scholars from different fields to examine how different organisations have impacted the study of tribal women entrepreneurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: The use of genetic probes for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) has been well described. However, the role of these assays in the diagnosis of intestinal tuberculosis is unclear. We therefore assessed the diagnostic utility of the Xpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis/rifampicin (MTB/RIF) assay, and estimated the prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB in the Indian population. Methods: Of 99 patients recruited, 37 had intestinal TB; two control groups comprised 43 with Crohn's disease (CD) and 19 with irritable bowel syndrome. Colonoscopy was performed before starting any therapy; mucosal biopsies were subjected to histopathology, acid-fast bacilli staining, Lowenstein-Jensen culture, and nucleic acid amplification testing using the Xpert MTB/RIF assay. Patients were followed up for 6 months to confirm the diagnosis and response to therapy. A composite reference standard was used for diagnosis of TB and assessment of the diagnostic utility of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay. Results: Of 37 intestinal TB patients, the Xpert MTB/RIF assay was positive in three of 37 (8.1%), but none had MDR-TB. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay was 8.1%, 100%, 100%, and, 64.2%, respectively. Conclusions: The Xpert MTB/RIF assay has low sensitivity but high specificity for intestinal TB, and may be helpful in endemic tuberculosis areas, when clinicians are faced with difficulty differentiating TB and CD. Based on the Xpert MTB/RIF assay, the prevalence of intestinal MDR-TB is low in the Indian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we describe the development of a zonal wavefront sensor that comprises an array of binary diffraction gratings realized on a transparent sheet (i.e., polyester film) followed by a focusing lens and a camera. The sensor works in a manner similar to that of a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor. The fabrication of the array of gratings is immune to certain issues associated with the fabrication of the lenslet array which is commonly used in zonal wavefront sensing. Besides the sensing method offers several important advantages such as flexible dynamic range, easy configurability, and option to enhance the sensing frame rate. Here, we have demonstrated the working of the proposed sensor using a proof-of-principle experimental arrangement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a rare condition, characterized by the presence of air in the mediastinum without any apparent precipitating cause. It is mainly a radiological diagnosis. The onus of differentiating between secondary and spontaneous pneumomediastinum lies on a thorough workup. In addition to etiology, complications such as tension pneumomediastinum, cervical emphysema, and pneumorachis. When present, must be diagnosed promptly. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a benign condition which is usually managed conservatively. Although not routinely seen on positron emission tomography/computed tomography, when present, they must be picked up and reported accurately to guide appropriate management of the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that evaluates the effect of core muscle strengthening exercise on chronicity of chronic low back pain (CLPB). Patients from the National Institute for the Orthopaedically Handicapped were assessed using Disability Index, Numerical pain rating scale, and Oswestry Disability Index. It is suggested that the exercise with lumbar flexibility and gluteus maximus strengthening is an effective rehabilitation technique.

The persons with disabilities faces many obstacle in their all aspects of life i.e. in personal, social, academic, occupational and recreational as well. As we know that technological era has changed into number of way. The Persons with Disabilities has comprehensive convenience, it is vital for enabling them to acquire for equal opportunity and live unrestrictedly and compete comprehensively in all aspects of life in an inclusive society. The Rights to Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights & Full Participation) Act, 2016 (PwDs Act, 1995) under Sections 44, 45 and 46 categorically provides for non-discrimination in transport, non-discrimination on the road and non-discrimination essential atmosphere individually. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), in which India is a signatory, under Article 9 casts an obligation on all the signatory governments to take proper measures to assure to persons with disabilities access, on an equal basis with others, to the physical atmosphere, to transportation, to information and communications, including information and communication technologies and systems, and to other facilities and services open or provided to the community, both in urban and in rural areas. The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), inistry of Social Justice & Empowerment has launched the "Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan)" as a nation-wide flagship campaign for achieving comprehensive convenience that will empower persons with disabilities to acquire for equal opportunity and live unrestrictedly and participate fully in all aspects of life in an inclusive society. So the objective of present paper is to realize that there are many different kinds of disabilities, and that new technologies have been developed to assist those who possess one or more of them. The present study also reveals or enlists the types of new technological devices and its use for persons with disabilities in an inclusive setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Genomic, proteomic and high-throughput gene expression data, when integrated, can be used to map the interaction networks between genes and proteins. Different approaches have been used to analyze these networks, especially in cancer, where mutations in biologically related genes that encode mutually interacting proteins are believed to be involved. This system of integrated networks as a whole exhibits emergent biological properties that are not obvious at the individual network level. We analyze the system in terms of modules, namely a set of densely interconnected nodes that can be further divided into submodules that are expected to participate in multiple biological activities in coordinated manner. Results: In the present work we construct two layers of the breast cancer network: the gene layer, where the correlation network of breast cancer genes is analyzed to identify gene modules, and the protein layer, where each gene module is extended to map out the network of expressed proteins and their interactions in order to identify submodules. Each module and its associated submodules are analyzed to test the robustness of their topological distribution. The constituent biological phenomena are explored through the use of the Gene Ontology. We thus construct a “network of networks”, and demonstrate that both the gene and protein interaction networks are modular in nature. By focusing on the ontological classification, we are able to determine the entire GO profiles that are distributed at different levels of hierarchy. Within each submodule most of the proteins are biologically correlated, and participate in groups of distinct biological activities. Conclusions: The present approach is an effective method for discovering coherent gene modules and protein submodules. We show that this also provides a means of determining biological pathways (both novel and as well those that have been reported previously) that are related, in the present instance, to breast cancer. Similar strategies are likely to be useful in the analysis of other diseases as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deep neck flexor (DNF) muscles assist in stabilising the cervical spine during gross neck movements. Patients with neck pain often exhibit reduced deep neck flexor muscle endurance. Aims: This study's primary purpose was to determine the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of measurements obtained using a simple clinical test of DNF muscle endurance in a healthy Indian population. The secondary purpose was to determine and compare the average hold time for deep neck flexor muscle endurance in healthy male and female participants, to add to the body of knowledge around deep neck flexor muscle endurance testing. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 60 participants (30 male, 30 female) were evaluated using a deep neck flexor endurance test, which involved them lifting their head while maintaining their craniocervical region in a flexed position. Deep neck flexor endurance was measured by two physiotherapists. Each tester measured the DNF hold time of each participant twice, and there was a 5-minute rest between trials. Results: Inter-rater reliability was moderate to good (ICC = 0.69-0.88) and intra-rater reliability was good to excellent (ICC = 0.82-0.93). Neck flexor endurance time was significantly greater in males (mean = 63.73 seconds; SD = 20.27 seconds) than females (mean = 38.43 seconds, SD = 11.71 seconds, (F = 72.89, P<0.001). Conclusion: The results suggest that healthy males have greater deep neck flexor endurance than females. This is the first normative data available that reports on deep neck flexor endurance in healthy Indian adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deep neck flexor (DNF) muscles assist in stabilising the cervical spine during gross neck movements. Patients with neck pain often exhibit reduced deep neck flexor muscle endurance. Aims: This study's primary purpose was to determine the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of measurements obtained using a simple clinical test of DNF muscle endurance in a healthy Indian population. The secondary purpose was to determine and compare the average hold time for deep neck flexor muscle endurance in healthy male and female participants, to add to the body of knowledge around deep neck flexor muscle endurance testing. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 60 participants (30 male, 30 female) were evaluated using a deep neck flexor endurance test, which involved them lifting their head while maintaining their craniocervical region in a flexed position. Deep neck flexor endurance was measured by two physiotherapists. Each tester measured the DNF hold time of each participant twice, and there was a 5-minute rest between trials. Results: Inter-rater reliability was moderate to good (ICC = 0.69-0.88) and intra-rater reliability was good to excellent (ICC = 0.82-0.93). Neck flexor endurance time was significantly greater in males (mean = 63.73 seconds; SD = 20.27 seconds) than females (mean = 38.43 seconds, SD = 11.71 seconds, (F = 72.89, P<0.001). Conclusion: The results suggest that healthy males have greater deep neck flexor endurance than females. This is the first normative data available that reports on deep neck flexor endurance in healthy Indian adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penetration rate achieved during drilling in rocks is one of the most important parameters for determining blasthole drilling economics in surface mining. A rational estimation of drillability of rocks and drill penetration rate (DPR) can help in proper drill inventory planning apart from drill bit/ rod consumption. Absence of a sound scientific methodology for drill penetration rate estimation leads to under or over estimation of drilling performance thus widening the gap between desired and actual rates of drilling for meeting a given production target. Thus, a suitable drill prediction rate methodology is the need of the hour. This paper reports the field and laboratory studies carried out for analysing the performance of three rotaiy blasthole drills operating in Sonpur Bazari opencast project, ECL, mainly drilling through three major rock types, namely, sandstone, shaly sandstone and hard sandstone. The field penetration rates of the drills were calculated from the time studies. Representative rock samples were collected from different drilling locations and Cerchar hardness index (CHI) values were determined in the laboratory using a miniature drill machine. The drill penetration rates (mm/min) achieved in miniature drill tests were correlated with CHI and regression equations were developed. It was observed that Cerchar hardness index provided a very good measure for prediction of drill penetration rate. A simple empirical model for the drill penetration rate was developed using Cerchar hardness index for each rock type individually. The laboratory and field penetration rates were later correlated and it was found that the field performance of rotary blasthole drill can be estimated from laboratory studies with a reasonable accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penetration rate achieved during drilling in rocks is one of the most important parameters for determining blasthole drilling economics in surface mining. A rational estimation of drillability of rocks and drill penetration rate (DPR) can help in proper drill inventory planning apart from drill bit/ rod consumption. Absence of a sound scientific methodology for drill penetration rate estimation leads to under or over estimation of drilling performance thus widening the gap between desired and actual rates of drilling for meeting a given production target. Thus, a suitable drill prediction rate methodology is the need of the hour. This paper reports the field and laboratory studies carried out for analysing the performance of three rotary blasthole drills operating in Sonpur Bazari opencast project, ECL, mainly drilling through three major rock types, namely, sandstone, shaly sandstone and hard sandstone. The field penetration rates of the drills were calculated from the time studies. Representative rock samples were collected from different drilling locations and Cerchar hardness index (CHI) values were determined in the laboratory using a miniature drill machine. The drill penetration rates (mm/min) achieved in miniature drill tests were correlated with CHI and regression equations were developed. It was observed that Cerchar hardness index provided a very good measure for prediction of drill penetration rate. A simple empirical model for the drill penetration rate was developed using Cerchar hardness index for each rock type individually. The laboratoiy and field penetration rates were later correlated and it was found that the field performance of rotary blasthole drill can be estimated from laboratoiy studies with a reasonable accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural dynamics of dendritic spines is one of the key correlative measures of synaptic plasticity for encoding short-term and long-term memory. Optical studies of structural changes in brain tissue using confocal microscopy face difficulties of scattering. This results in low signal-to-noise ratio and thus limiting the imaging depth to few tens of microns. Multiphoton microscopy (MpM) overcomes this limitation by using low-energy photons to cause localized excitation and achieve high resolution in all three dimensions. Multiple low-energy photons with longer wavelengths minimize scattering and allow access to deeper brain regions at several hundred microns. In this article, we provide a basic understanding of the physical phenomena that give MpM an edge over conventional microscopy. Further, we highlight a few of the key studies in the field of learning and memory which would not have been possible without the advent of MpM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This paper reviews various methods for the assessment and management of the coccygodynia. It included review of both conservative as well as operative methods. Goal of conservative methods in coccygodynia is to restore the functional status of the patients and to eliminate or at least minimize the discomfort associated with this disabling condition. Though various conservative methods have been used traditionally, yet not all patients respond positively to them. In such cases operative interventions are used, yet previous literature does suggest that even this method is not absolutely promising as not all patients do respond positively to it. METHODOLOGY: The purpose of this article is to review various literatures available for the assessment and the management of coccygodynia. It tends to identify the factors which could guide the selection of best intervention strategy for its management. English literature databases were searched to find the studies matching the predetermined inclusion criteria. CONCLUSION: Multiple factors (pathology, duration of pain, Body mass index, neurotic personality, associated disc pathologies, amount of inter-coccygeal movement) influence the outcomes of the remedial interventions. This study highlights multiple treatment approaches for the rehabilitation of the coccygodynia management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is steadily becoming the most common cause of disability with advancing age. So, this study was aimed to prevent and rehabilitate the patient with such disability. Proprioception along with other deficits have been established with threat to the concerned joint. Hence, objective of the study was set to show the efficacy of proprioceptive training with conventional physiotherapy versus conventional physiotherapy. A Pre test- Post test single blind experimental study was designed with 44 patients having knee OA and randomly divided in two groups. Outcome measures were pain intensity on NRS, functional disability on Reduced WOMAC and joint position sense (JPS) error on Electronic Goniometer. Results between group comparisons showed significant improvement in pain intensity (p < 0.05), WOMAC score (p < 0.05) and JPS error (p < 0.05). However both the groups improved significantly but there was more significant improvement in group with proprioception intervention. Hence, it can be concluded that proprioceptive training should be included along with conventional physiotherapy in knee OA rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low back pain (LBP) has multi-factorial origin and its treatment varies considerably. Multidisciplinary pain programs have shown their effectiveness in the management of LBP but it is not documented whether subjects with difference in chronicity (duration) of pain will respond differently to these regimes. Dynamic muscular stabilization technique (DMST) is an active approach of stabilizing training for lumbar area which involves the training for the co-contraction of the transverse abdominis and multifidus muscles. Aim: This study determines the efficacy of Dynamic Muscular Stabilization Technique (DMST) in LBP of different durations. Design: Follow-up, comparative study. Setting: Physical medicine and rehabilitation department (PMR) of university. Methods: Total 72 patients were categorized in 5 groups on the basis of duration (chronicity) of their low back pain. The documentation of chronicity was done on the basis of subjective questionnaire. All subjects were treated with DMST. Pain was the primary outcome measure while physical strength (back pressure change: BPC, abdominal pressure changes: APC), physical ability (walking, stair climbing, stand ups) and quality of life (QOL) were the secondary. Variables were assessed at baseline (day 0), 3 months (day 90) and at the end of the follow up (day 180). Results: Variables (Pain, BPC, APC, Walking, Stair climbing, Stand ups and QOL) significantly improved on 90th and 180th day while compared to the baseline. Therefore irrespective of the chronicity of pain, all chronic pain patients will respond positively to the DMST treatment. Conclusions: This study concludes that DMST intervention is an effective rehabilitation technique for all chronic low back pain patients irrespective of the duration (chronicity) of their pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To study the effectiveness of Maitland techniques in the treatment of idiopathic shoulder adhesive capsulitis. Methods. total of 40 patients diagnosed with idiopathic shoulder adhesive capsulitis were recruited and randomly allocated into two groups. In Group A (n = 20) subjects were treated with Maitland mobilization technique and common supervised exercises, whereas subjects in Group B (n = 20) only received common supervised exercises. Variables. Shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI), VAS and shoulder ROM (external rotation and abduction) were variables of the study. These were recorded before and after the session of the training. Total duration of the study was four weeks. Result. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that within-group comparison both groups showed significant improvement for all the parameters, whereas between-group comparison revealed higher improvement in Group A compared to the Group B. Conclusion. The study confirmed that addition of the Maitland mobilization technique with the combination of exercises have proved their efficacy in relieving pain and improving R.O.M. and shoulder function and hence should form a part of the treatment plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hallux rigidus is a chronic, disabling condition of foot characterized by reduced great toe extension. The manual therapy approaches are described theoretically however their practical published evidence has not been analyzed well. Objective: Aim of the present paper was to systematically review the literature available for therapeutic management of the hallux rigidus by identifying and evaluating the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs. Methods: To view the hallux rigidus and its rehabilitation, a webbased published literature search of Pubmed, Ovid Medline, Science direct, Cochrane Database, PEDro database, CINAHL was conducted for last 35 years in August 2010 using 4 specific keywords "hallux rigidus, physical therapy, chiropractic, and manual therapy" typed in exactly same manner in the search column of the databases. Result: the review finds that there is acute need of the quality studies and RCTs for the manual therapy, chiropractic, or physiotherapeutic management of the hallux rigidus. Conclusion: Review conclude that conservative programs for hallux rigidus consists of comprehensive intervention program that includes great toe mobilization, toe flexor strengthening, sesamoid bones mobilization and long MTP joint. The clinician should put an emphasis on the mobilization program with proper follow up along with comparative studies for rehabilitation of hallux rigidus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to determine the relation among the commonly used different tests of evaluating core stability performance. Establishing this relationship is important as different authors have used different types of tests for evaluating core stabilization in their study yet relation among these tests and the individual importance of each of these tests is not clearly established so far. Methods: Among 40 recreationally active subjects the core stability performance was evaluated using variety of different tests reported in the previous literatures. Results: Results show that there was no significant correlation among the performance scores on different test of core stability. Conclusions: The assessment of the core stability performance must be in concordance with the need of the individual and of the study. Also, different tasks or sports selectively require different components of the core stability. In order to evaluate more than one component of the core stability performance, the different combinations of the tests must be used. If one wishes to test all the components of the core stabilization, then no single test is sufficient and a battery of test must be used to assess different components separately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of the present study is to evaluate the effect of the lumbar core stabilization training on the lower trunk endurance performance among recreationally active players. Methods: This study is a randomized controlled trial in which 40 recreationally active subjects aged 18-27 years were equally alloted into two groups. One group was the control group, which received no intervention, and other group was the experimental group, which received lumbar core stabilization training of six-week duration. Lower trunk endurance performance was assessed using "time" (in seconds) as the dependent variable according to the various clinical tests such as Sorensen test, Plank tests (prone, right side, left side) and abdominal fatigue test. All test performance was done at day zero (pre-test) and after six weeks (post-test). Data were analyzed by independent t-test for between group comparison and paired t-test for within group comparison. Result: The finding of this study is that core stabilization training significantly improved (p ≤ 0.05) for the lower trunk endurance performance. Control group did not show any significant improvement in lower trunk endurance performance. Conclusion: This study concludes that core stability training leads to improvement in the lower trunk endurance performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present study was undertaken to find out the relationship among outcome variables as well as association between dependent variables with physical characteristics in low back pain (LBP) patients. Correlations between outcome variables [pain, back pressure changes (BPC), abdominal pressure changes (APC), walking, stairs climbing, stand ups, quality of life (QOL) and sexual frequency] of all LBP subjects before and after treatment were assessed. Regression analysis was used to estimate baseline BPC and APC of LBP subjects from their baseline demographic characteristics (age, height, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and pulse rate) and severity of pain. Methods: A total of 141 nonspecific chronic LBP patients were recruited. After baseline recording, all subjects were given trunk stabilization training for 20 regular days. After training, the follow-up was done at a gap of each 15 days up to 6 months (180 days). At the last follow-up session (180th day), the outcome variables were recorded again. Findings: The present study found an inverse relation between pain and muscle functions (BPC: r = -0.36; p < 0.01 and APC: r = -0.26; p < 0.01). This study also showed that BPC was more inversely related with the pain than APC. Conclusions: This study concludes that physical strength (BPC and APC) of LBP subjects is more closely associated with the pain than the functional ability (walking, stairs climbing and stand ups). This study also estimated (baseline or before treatment) BPC and APC in LBP subjects from their physical characteristics and pain severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study determines the efficacy of two such multimodal treatments in the management of lumbar pain syndrome in males and females. Method: Total subjects of 141 male or female were randomized to treat either with conventional treatment or by DMST (dynamic muscular stabilization techniques). After stratification on the basis of gender (51 male and 21 female) were found in DMST group whereas (40 male and 29 female) were found in conventional group. The primary outcome measures were pain severity, physical strength (BPC and APC), functional ability (Walking, Stairs climbing and Stand-ups) and QOL. All patients were assessed at baseline (day 0), 10 days, 20 days, 90 days and at the end treatment or follow up (day 180). Result: In this study the improvement of pain, BPC, APC, Walking, Stair climbing and stand-ups in females and males were 22.5% and 29.0%, 60.9% and 53.7%, 42.0% and 51.9%, 49.8% and 49.3%, 54.2% and 48.7%, 52.3% and 39.7%, higher respectively in DMST as compared to CONV whereas QOL in females of DMST improved by 53.6% more than the females of CONV while males of DMST improved by 57.9% more than the males of CONV. Conclusion: DMST as well as CONV treatments are more effective in males than the females. Study also concluded that subgroup "female" may need more clinical attention during the management of LBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]