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This paper investigates the Parasitic Motion (PaMo) in a 3-Degree of Freedom (DoF) 3- R RS Spatial Parallel Manipulator (SPM) for its different link proportions. The position kinematic analysis of the manipulator is addressed initially. The PaMo is investigated and quantified as the percentage of Reachable Workspace (RW) for each link proportion at the tip of an End-Effector (EE), which is attached at the centroid of the moving platform. The PaMo which happens in the constrained DoF is an unwanted motion, and this entire process allows to know the total occupancy of PaMo in comparison to RW for each link proportion. The results are depicted with the aid of 3D plots of the reachable work-volume and the volume of PaMo for each link proportion. In order to evaluate the performance measure, a performance index called as the parasitic motion index (PaMoI) is proposed. The PaMoI variation pattern is also discussed based on the obtained results. The conclusions are drawn at the end based on this investigation that also identify the provisions to minimize the PaMo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the hypothesized that platelet activation markers triggered by common infections may help predicting occurrence of sepsis in specific ICU patient populations. Material and Methods: The present prospective study was conducted in patients >18 years of age, admitted at P.D. Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Center in the Intensive care unit (ICU) with acute febrile illness. Any patient fulfilling the inclusion criteria, admitted as an in-patient to this hospital during a period of 12 consecutive months was included in the study. Group I Patients Admitted in ICU with fever and proven to have sepsis (confirmed by positive blood culture) Group II Patients admitted in ICU with fever and having no proven sepsis (blood culture is negative), The q-SOFA score was recorded with IPF was compared with PCT and blood culture. q-SOFA score was compared in both the groups. Results:q - SOFA score comparison- group I,q - SOFA = 2 or > 2( 83.60 ./.) as compared to group II q - sofa =1 (91.9./.) with statistically significant. P value = 0.001 All the parameters of SIRS criteria viz. temperature (°C), HR (beats/min), breath rate (/min), WBC (x10³/ul) and immature forms (%) were comparable among the study groups as p>0.05. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value and positive predictive value in diagnosis of sepsis (considering culture as gold standard) was 77 %,76%,75%,70.5%respectively. Conclusion: Using IPF initially to recognize patients of sepsis, can lead to reduction in morbidity and mortality of these patients. Measurement of the IPF is simple, and cost-effective. It can be done as part of a CBC on most automated hematology analyzers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of the present research is to investigate the factors that precede digital payments and their effect on the behavioural intentions of consumers residing in both rural and urban areas. In this research, different factors, such as perceived usefulness (PU), compatibility (CO), performance expectancy (PE), transaction speed (TS), trust (TR), unavailability of facilitating conditions (UFC), and operational constraints (OC) have been taken from various theories. To collect data, an online survey was administered, and a total of 557 participants provided their responses. The model's validity and reliability are established using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), while the hypothetical relationships were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) in AMOS. It is concluded that PU, CO, PE, TS, TR, UFC, and OC have impacted the behavioural intentions of both urban and rural users. Moreover, the multi-group analysis is also applied in this research, to know the difference in behaviour of rural and urban users. It is concluded that PU, CO, PE, TS, TR, UFC, and OC have impacted the behavioural intentions of the users. Through the multi-group AMOS analysis, it was discovered that the path from drivers such as TS, CO, TR, and UFC to intent to use showed a difference between the two groups, whereas OC, PE, and PU showed the same path coefficient. Finally, at the end, some managerial implications are made for further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sleep is one of the most important factors affecting overall health. During the night, the skin repairs damage caused by daily stresses. Melatonin plays a key role in this process. Toxins are removed, and cellular repair and growth hormone production are increased. Inter alia, this also decreases signs of intrinsic aging. Aims: The current study was intended to demonstrate the impact of a unique fraction of Melaleuca alternifolia (FMA) essential oil, on sleep and skin quality. Methods: The effect of FMA was investigated in vitro on skin cells, evaluating its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties, and in an ex‐vivo study on human skin biopsies treated with FMA following stress induction. In addition, two clinical studies were performed on volunteers with life‐style‐related sleep complaints. In one study, sleep was measured using a noncontact monitoring device (SleepScore Labs, Max). A second study was conducted to assess skin anti‐aging effects. Results: In vitro application of FMA reduced IL‐8 and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in skin cells. This was confirmed ex vivo through a decrease in inflammatory markers and an increase in antioxidant enzymes after stress induction. Interestingly, FMA also upregulated melatonin‐associated genes. Real‐world sleep tracking revealed that FMA significantly improved sleep quality, relative to unscented control. In vivo applications also showed a reduction in signs of aging. Conclusion: These results provide initial data to suggest that this unique FMA delivers skin anti‐aging benefits via a two‐pronged mode of action, improving sleep quality, and reducing skin inflammatory and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper strives to compare between two 3-Degree of Freedom (DoF) Spatial Parallel Manipulators (SPMs) belonging to the 3-[PP]S-Y family viz., 3- R RS and 3-R P S. The planes of the manipulators belong to this family are arranged in a Y-pattern such that they intersect at 120° in a common line. Both of these manipulators have a common motion of 1T2R (T: Translation, R: Rotation) type, and their comparison in this work is carried out by considering the effects of link tolerance and parasitic motions, for the same task space and End-Effector (EE) positions. Their respective position kinematic analysis is discussed initially. The comparison is then carried out by considering two different cases based on the sizes of the moving platform relative to the base platform. The errors are quantified and all the comparative results are represented with the aid of plots. The conclusions are summarized at the end that allow to know the better of the two manipulators for the given effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gall bladder cancer (GBC) is the commonest malignancy of biliary tract. It is locally aggressive and potentially fatal in most of the patients. With the rise in the number of laparoscopic cholecystectomies being performed worldwide, incidental presentation of GBC is becoming common. The revelation of cancer for benign cholecystectomy presents a challenge. Incidental GBC needs detailed evaluation that includes review of preoperative imaging, histopathology report of cholecystectomy and high quality imaging to look for residual or metastatic disease. It is imperative to correctly stage the disease to formulate the best treatment strategy. For assessment of disease, triple-phase Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) scan and staging laparoscopy have definite roles; with Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography (PET/CT) useful in confirming suspicious lesions. The factors associated with poor prognosis is presence of residual disease, lymphovascular invasion, grade of tumor and presence of metastatic lymph nodes. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy can be employed for the patients who are not candidate for upfront re-resection. Surgery includes liver excision and lymphadenectomy. Adjuvant therapy is indicated for higher stage tumor for improving survival, but response rate is low. Evaluation of biomarkers can provide a target for novel therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The patient data from the third wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic in New Delhi caused by the Omicron variant in terms of severity of disease, incidental diagnosis, outcome, and effect of vaccination are relatively lacking. We set out to investigate the demographic and clinical parameters and outcomes of patients hospitalized with COVID‑19, the differences between incidentally and symptomatically diagnosed patients, and the impact of vaccination on clinical manifestations and outcomes. Methods: The study was conducted at a non‑COVID‑19 dedicated tertiary care institute in India. The data with regard to presentation, vaccination, and outcome were collected prospectively. Results: A total of 101 patients were analyzed for the study. The mean age was 50.63 years with 46.53% women. No patient was of pediatric age. Respiratory failure was present in 26.73%. COVID‑19 pneumonia was present in only 13.86%. There were 17 deaths. Only 4 deaths were caused by COVID‑19 pneumonia. 60.4% of the patients were incidentally detected and 39.6% were symptomatically diagnosed. No incidentally detected patient had respiratory failure or COVID‑19 pneumonia. Out of 101 patients, 66.34% were vaccinated and 33.66% were unvaccinated. Death occurred in 8.96% of vaccinated and 32.5% of unvaccinated patients. No vaccinated patient died due to COVID‑19 pneumonia compared to 11.76% of unvaccinated patients. Conclusion: The Omicron wave had more patients admitted with incidentally detected COVID‑19 than symptomatic individuals. These patients required in‑hospital management of coexisting illnesses rather than for COVID‑19. There were more deaths with non‑COVID‑19 causes. Vaccination appeared to be protective against severe COVID‑19. Mortality was found to be lower in vaccinated individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The board of directors of an organization can contribute considerably to the transition to a sustainable global economy by accommodating environmental, social and governance (ESG) measures in the directors' business model. Along these lines, the purpose of this research is to understand the nexus between the board's structural attributes and sustainability disclosures in an emerging economy such as India. Design/methodology/approach: The authors investigate this link using the system generalized method of moments (SGMM) panel regression on a sample of firms from the National Stock Exchange (NSE) Nifty 100 Index from 2013 to 2020. This econometric framework controls endogeneity among the variables, which has been a gap in the previous studies. Findings: The authors find that board structural attributes, like board size, gender diversity, chief executive officer (CEO) duality and independence, have little bearing on sustainability disclosures of Indian companies. However, the board of directors, through the board's company's social responsibility (CSR) committee, strives for sustainability practices in Indian organizations. The authors also find that larger companies are more willing to disclose on ESG efforts than smaller ones, but the financial performance of the smaller ones (as proxied by Tobin's Q) does not matter. Research limitations/implications: This study is restricted to a sample of large cap listed companies and specific environment, resulting in the non-generalizability of the findings to different contexts because countries vary in their state of economic development, internal policy, regulations and governance. Practical implications: A mandated CSR committee has helped Indian businesses to publicize their sustainability efforts. Besides the frontrunner in CSR regulations, Indian organizations have paid least attention to the environmental pillar of the ESG framework. Accordingly, the board of directors should put more emphasis on the environmental aspects of their business' sustainability efforts to help achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the medium term and net neutrality in the long term. Originality/value: From the standpoint of an emerging economy like India, which has statutory CSR mandates for firms, this research adds a fresh perspective on the relationship between corporate governance and corporate responsibility by employing stakeholder theory, which is further substantiated by the use of system GMM as a robust methodology. This study also emphasizes the significance of a mandatory CSR committee as a facilitator of sustainability practices and reporting in emerging economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the usage of decentralised identity (DID) management using blockchain in global organisations to support secure usage of information resources. Blockchain as technology was initially introduced as a cryptocurrency and there have been challenges in its adoption for enterprise applications such as identity management. DID is emerging as one of the strong blockchain adoption use cases. Industry pioneers and users across domains have started exploring DID use cases, which help better protect their personal data and application access control as compared to traditional, central, or federated identity management models. In this exploratory work, the authors employ qualitative secondary case-based study research methodology to understand the challenges of the current digital identity management landscape and explore the possible benefits of DID as an emerging identity management paradigm. They propose a conceptual cube framework for analysing and studying various DID platforms thereby contributing to both the theory and practice of digitally secure identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac sarcoidosis is found to occur in approximately 5% of patients with sarcoidosis. Its presentation can typically range from complete heart block to ventricular arrhythmias. This condition can rarely present with severe heart failure and cardiogenic shock requiring aggressive and timely management strategies. Advanced imaging techniques are usually required to assist with its diagnosis. Case presentation: A 70-year-old woman with a history of pulmonary sarcoidosis presented with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, congestive hepatopathy, and acute renal failure. Left heart catheterization showed evidence of non-obstructive coronary artery disease, and right heart catheterization revealed severely elevated filling pressures and depressed cardiac index. She underwent aggressive diuresis and placement of an intra-aortic balloon pump in addition to initiation of inotropic and vasopressor support. While in the cardiac intensive care unit, she experienced frequent episodes of ventricular tachycardia and went into cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation. High clinical suspicion for cardiac sarcoidosis was confirmed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging findings. After starting immunosuppressive therapy for cardiac sarcoidosis, she demonstrated clinical improvement. Conclusion: Patients with cardiac sarcoidosis may remain asymptomatic or present with conduction abnormalities and arrhythmias. They rarely present with severe biventricular heart failure and cardiogenic shock, and in such cases, they require timely initiation of pharmacologic and device therapies, along with implementation of mechanical circulatory support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple, mild, and metal-free cascade reaction has been developed for the construction of highly functionalized olefins. The approach relies on the initial formation of [3+2]-cycloadducts from a pyridinium ylide generated in situ from polymer-bound DMAP (PS-DMAP) with an N -substituted maleimide or an α,β-unsaturated β-keto ester. The cycloadduct decomposes to regenerate supported DMAP and yield a functionalized itaconimide or olefin. The method has a broad substrate scope. The alkene product has been further transformed into trisubstituted furan. PS-DMAP could be reused for five cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine whether high-resolution ultrasonography (HRUS) can provide information, on signs of inflammation and destruction, due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The focus was on the wrist joint, during early and late disease and compared the findings to those with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: The study was based on 31 RA patients, with joint involvements, who were selected from those attending the outpatient rheumatology clinic. The patients completed both HRUS and MRI examinations, and their results were compared. Results: The HRUS and MRI images had near-perfect agreement, for detecting joint anomalies, in those RA patients. While comparing the overall performance of the HRUS and MRI studies, it was observed that HRUS was equal or nearly equal, demonstrating 90.83%, 100.0% and 94.93%, diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, respectively, for diagnosing RA pathologies. Conclusion: The early diagnosis of RA with HRUS and MRI examinations is very important, in the early treatment of RA. The HRUS examinations demonstrated a sensitive and reliable diagnostic method for assessing inflammatory activity and destructive changes in the joints of these RA patients, with HRUS findings comparable to those of MRI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 40-year-old Asian man with COPD presented to the ER with an acute exacerbation and type 2 respiratory failure. He was intubated and placed on the mechanical ventilator. He had a tobacco smoking history of 30 pack-years. Otherwise, he had no other significant medical or social history. The family history was non contributory. His physical development was normal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Combined spinal–epidural technique is a widely accepted and popular modality for labor analgesia. Opioids are being used as adjuvants since long time. Dexmedetomidine is a new drug that is being used as an intrathecal adjuvant. Aim: The study aims to compare the safety and efficacy of fentanyl and dexmedetomidine as intrathecal adjuvants in labor analgesia. Settings and Design: This was a continuous, prospective, randomized controlled trial with 120 parturients. Materials and Methods: After ethical approval and written consent, participants were divided randomly into two groups: Group A – bupivacaine 2.5 mg (0.5 mL diluted to 2 mL) + 20 μg of dexmedetomidine in 1 mL saline intrathecally (total volume: 3 mL) and Group B – bupivacaine 2.5 mg (0.5 mL diluted to 2 mL) + 15 μg of fentanyl in 1 mL saline intrathecally (total volume: 3 mL). Primary outcomes were satisfactory analgesia, mode of delivery, and neonatal outcome. Participants were monitored for the onset and duration of analgesia, degree of motor block, and maternal and fetal side effects. Results: A total of 108 parturients reported sufficient analgesia (Group A: 57; Group B: 51), and 74 patients delivered vaginally (Group A: 41; Group B: 44). The rates of normal vaginal delivery were higher in Group B. Group A reported earlier onset of analgesia (61.26 ± 18.23 s) that lasted for longer duration (124.16 ± 26.23 min) than in Group B. There were no serious side effects in any of the groups. Fetal ultrasound revealed attenuation of fetal heart rate variability. The heart rate of newborns was also found to be low in Group A. Conclusion: Chances of vaginal delivery are higher with intrathecal fentanyl as an adjuvant. Intensity and duration of analgesia are better with intrathecal dexmedetomidine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Identification of the nature of lymph nodes is one of the most important parameters for diagnosis in any oncological setting. The lymph nodes help in staging and this directly affects the prognostic outcome and treatment decision. Ultrasound is the preferred imaging method for distinguishing between benign and malignant superficial lymph nodes given ease of availability and its low cost. However, there is no reliable and definitive sonographic criterion in ultrasound to categorise lymph nodes as benign or malignant. Aim: To evaluate the role of sonography and sonoelastography in characterisation of cervical lymphadenopathy and to associate the imaging findings with cytopathology. Materials and Methods: This was a cohort study, conducted over a period of one year in Teerthankar Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, constituting a total of 60 patients with enlarged cervical lymph nodes and evaluated on B-mode ultrasound and elastography in this study. The ultrasonography was performed using either Acuson S3000 ultrasound system (Siemens Medical Solutions, Mountain View, CA) with a 4 to 9 MHz linear transducer for conventional sonography and Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) imaging. Results of radiological findings were tabulated, evaluated and collated with pathological findings. Results: ARFI imaging displayed a sensitivity and specificity of 80% and 97.5% respectively with a Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of 94.1% and 90.7% respectively in distinguishing malignant from benign cervical lymphadenopathy with the diagnostic accuracy being 91.67%. Using Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve (AUC) of 0.925, a cut-off value for shear wave velocity of 2.98 m/s was obtained. Conclusion: ARFI is a novel technique which can be used to characterise the nature of cervical lymph nodes. Present study demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy (91.67%) in comparison with histopathological findings, ARFI elastography may help in distinction of benign from malignant nodes in adjunct to the grey scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the mechanical error estimation under the effects of link tolerances in a 3-degree-of-freedom (DoF) 3- R RS Spatial Parallel Manipulator (SPM). Position level kinematic analysis and workspace analysis in the form of reachable and orientation workspace are carried out initially. Then, the effect of link tolerances on individual link is studied at the position of mid-point and orientation of the movable platform. The corresponding mechanical errors are estimated. The effect of link tolerance variation is studied to know the pattern of mechanical error. The 3-D CAD model in SolidWorks is used to validate the results. The conclusions are drawn that lead to error minimization at the tolerance design stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterocycles play an essential role in medicinal as well as in organic synthetic chemistry. The synthesis of these valuable scaffolds is an emerging and challenging field of today's research in organic chemistry. In recent years, several heterocycles as new synthons have emerged as potential nucleophiles in asymmetric transformations. Among them, 5H‐oxazol‐4‐one is one of the strategic synthons for synthesizing enantioenriched α‐alkyl‐α‐hydroxycarboxylic acid derivatives, which are otherwise very challenging via direct installation of a hydroxy group at the α‐position of carbonyls. Over the years, considerable progress has been made to establish new and efficient methodologies under mild reaction conditions exploiting metal‐ and organo‐catalysis. This review presents a comprehensive summary of various catalytic development in asymmetric synthesis employing 5H‐oxazol‐4‐ones as α‐alkyl‐α‐hydroxycarboxylic acid surrogates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Spontaneous retroperitoneal haemorrhage (SRH) is a rare cause of retroperitoneal haemorrhage in patients who are on anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents or both. Case summary We report here a rare and catastrophic complication of use of anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs in a case undergoing coronary angioplasty. The patient had multiple coronary risk factors and developed acute myocardial infarction with pulmonary oedema and hypotension during hospitalization for treatment of lower respiratory tract infection and diabetic ketoacidosis. He underwent successful angioplasty of the culprit vessel but later developed hypotension attributable to retroperitoneal haemorrhage. No bleeding site was identified despite extensive evaluation of the aorta and iliac vessels. Discussion A diagnosis of SRH is considered when a patient on anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs develops retroperitoneal haemorrhage without any specific identifiable site of bleeding in the retroperitoneum. Diffuse vasculopathy and atherosclerosis or vasculitis of the small vessels in the retroperitoneum may result in rupture of the most friable vessels and result in bleeding. Intense cough, forceful vomiting or sneezing may also be responsible for traumatizing the vessels and resulting in bleeding. Most cases recover with conservative management but some may benefit from interventional occlusion of the leak or surgical decompression in cases of abdominal compartment syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim/Purpose: 5G and IoT are two path-breaking technologies, and they are like wall and climbers, where IoT as a climber is growing tremendously, taking the support of 5G as a wall. The main challenge that emerges here is to secure the ecosystem created by the collaboration of 5G and IoT, which consists of a network, users, endpoints, devices, and data. Other than underlying and hereditary security issues, they bring many Zero-day vulnerabilities, which always pose a risk. This paper proposes a security solution using network slicing, where each slice serves customers with different problems. Background: 5G and IoT are a combination of technology that will enhance the user experience and add many security issues to existing ones like DDoS, DoS. This paper aims to solve some of these problems by using network slicing and implementing an Intrusion Detection System to identify and isolate the compromised resources. Methodology: This paper proposes a 5G-IoT architecture using network slicing. Research here is an advancement to our previous implementation, a Python-based software divided into five different modules. This paper's amplification includes induction of security using pattern matching intrusion detection methods and conducting tests in five different scenarios, with 1000 up to 5000 devices in different security modes. This enhancement in security helps differentiate and isolate attacks on IoT endpoints, base stations, and slices. Contribution: Network slicing is a known security technique; we have used it as a platform and developed a solution to host IoT devices with peculiar requirements and enhance their security by identifying intruders. This paper gives a different solution for implementing security while using slicing technology. Findings: The study entails and simulates how the IoT ecosystem can be variedly deployed on 5G networks using network slicing for different types of IoT devices and users. Simulation done in this research proves that the suggested architecture can be successfully implemented on IoT users with peculiar requirements in a network slicing environment. Recommendations for Practitioners: Practitioners can implement this solution in any live or production IoT environment to enhance security. This solution helps them get a cost-effective method for deploying IoT devices on a 5G network, which would otherwise have been an expensive technology to implement. Recommendations for Researchers: Researchers can enhance the simulations by amplifying the different types of IoT devices on varied hardware. They can even perform the simulation on a real network to unearth the actual impact. Impact on Society: This research provides an affordable and modest solution for securing the IoT ecosystem on a 5G network using network slicing technology, which will eventually benefit society as an end-user. This research can be of great assistance to all those working towards implementing security in IoT ecosystems. Future Research: All the configuration and slicing resources allocation done in this research was performed manually; it can be automated to improve accuracy and results. Our future direction will include machine learning techniques to make this application and intrusion detection more intelligent and advanced. This simulation can be combined and performed with smart network devices to obtain more varied results. A proof-of-concept system can be implemented on a real 5G network to amplify the concept further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 is characterized by marked variability in clinical severity. Vitamin D had recently been reviewed as one of the factors that may affect the severity in COVID-19. The objective of current study is to analyze the vitamin D level in COVID-19 patients and its impact on the disease severity. After approval from Ethics Committee, M.L.B Medical College the current study was undertaken as continuous prospective observational study of 6 weeks. Participants were COVID-19 patients of age group 30–60 years admitted during the study period of 6 weeks. Study included either asymptomatic COVID-19 patients (Group A) or severely ill patients requiring ICU admission (Group B). Serum concentration of 25 (OH)D, were measured along with serum IL-6; TNFα and serum ferritin. Standard statistical analysis was performed to analyze the differences. Current Study enrolled 154 patients, 91 in Group A and 63 patients in Group B. The mean level of vitamin D (in ng/mL) was 27.89 ± 6.21 in Group A and 14.35 ± 5.79 in Group B, the difference was highly significant. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 32.96% and 96.82% respectively in Group A and Group B. Out of total 154 patients, 90 patients were found to be deficient in vitamin D (Group A: 29; Group B: 61). Serum level of inflammatory markers was found to be higher in vitamin D deficient COVID-19 patients viz. IL-6 level (in pg/mL) 19.34 ± 6.17 vs 12.18 ± 4.29; Serum ferritin 319.17 ± 38.21 ng/mL vs 186.83 ± 20.18 ng/mL; TNFα level (in pg/mL) 13.26 ± 5.64 vs 11.87 ± 3.15. The fatality rate was high in vitamin D deficient (21% vs 3.1%). Vitamin D level is markedly low in severe COVID-19 patients. Inflammatory response is high in vitamin D deficient COVID-19 patients. This all translates into increased mortality in vitamin D deficient COVID-19 patients. As per the flexible approach in the current COVID-19 pandemic authors recommend mass administration of vitamin D supplements to population at risk for COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odors can be powerful stimulants. It is well-established that odors provide strong cues for recall of locations, people and events. The effects of specific scents on other cognitive functions are less well-established. We hypothesized that scents with different odor qualities will have a different effect on attention. To assess attention, we used Inter-Subject Correlation of the EEG because this metric is strongly modulated by attentional engagement with natural audiovisual stimuli. We predicted that scents known to be "energizing" would increase Inter-Subject Correlation during watching of videos as compared to "calming" scents. In a first experiment, we confirmed this for eucalyptol and linalool while participants watched animated autobiographical narratives. The result was replicated in a second experiment, but did not generalize to limonene, also considered an "energizing" odorant. In a third, double-blind experiment, we tested a battery of scents including single molecules, as well as mixtures, as participants watched various short video clips. We found a varying effect of odor on Inter-Subject Correlation across the various scents. This study provides a basis for reliably and reproducibly assessing effects of odors on brain activity. Future research is needed to further explore the effect of scent-based up-modulation in engagement on learning and memory performance. Educators, product developers and fragrance brands might also benefit from such objective neurophysiological measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive method for detecting numerous pathologies. Pediatric patients are often uncooperative which leads to decreased quality and increased time of scan. We compared the conventional means alone and combination of oral midazolam for the above cited purpose. Material and Methods: This double blind prospective study (CTRI/2016/06/007030) was conducted after obtaining due approval from institutional ethical committee. One hundred Children aged 2-6 years belonging to ASA class 1 or 2, posted for high resolution ultrasonography of abdomen were included in the study. They were randomised to receive midazolam 0.3 mg/kg mixed in 20 mL of apple juice (Group I) or 20 mL of apple juice alone (Group II) 20 minutes prior to the procedure. The parameters assessed were level of cooperation, sonologist's satisfaction, total scan time, heart rate and SpO2. Results: Out of 100 patients, 44 patients of group I and 42 of group II were analysed. The cooperation score was significantly higher in Group I (35%) than Group II (19%). Likert scale revealed very satisfied and satisfied rating in 61.3% (Group I) and 21.4% (Group II). The time taken by sonologist and number of attempts were significantly less in Group I than Group II. There was no difference in discharge time between the groups. There was no reportable adverse event in either group. Conclusion: Oral midazolam is a safe and effective agent to aid routine abdominal ultrasonography in pediatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portfolios of companies with high book-to-market (BTM) ratio (low Price-To-Book (PB) ratios, Value firms) outperform those with companies with low BTM ratio (high PB ratios, Growth firms). In literature, this is known as the Value Anomaly. This anomaly is related to the third factor in the three-factor model of Fama and French, and is commonly used to explain the cross section of returns. Studies on the Value Anomaly in the Indian Stock Markets have yielded mixed results. Using a longer span of data and a larger set of companies, this study explores and observes the Value Anomaly in the Indian Stock Market. The contribution of size and systematic risk towards the behaviour of the Value Anomaly is studied. We observe that Value Anomaly exists in India, but with growth portfolios outperforming value. A critical analysis reveals possible linkages to firm size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Silver as an antimicrobial agent has been known for the treatment of burns. Silver nitrate causes discoloration of skin and silver sulphadiazine causes tissue irritation and pseudo-eschar formation. Nano-crystalline silver dressings were a significant break-through in the management of burn wounds. Aim: To assess the efficacy of nano-crystalline silver dressing in management of second degree superficial burns. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients suffering from second degree superficial burns of different aetiologies were treated and wound healing was closely monitored with regular photographic evidence. Results: The mean score of pain using numeric and faces pain rating scale was 7.36 at the time of admission. Eighteen patients didn't have pain at one week. Mean score of remaining 12 patients was 1.5. When the total score is divided by 30 (18+12), then mean pain was 0.6. The mean number of dressing changes required was 4.73. Burn wounds of four patients epithelialised completely within one week requiring no more dressings, whereas 18 patients took up to two weeks and eight patients required more than two weeks for epithelialisation. However, complete healing was observed in all patients at four weeks and at three months follow-up, the scar was supple with no evidence of raised skin or hypertrophy. Conclusion: The ease of use, powerful antibacterial effect, lower frequency of dressing change, good molding, short time of wound clearing and epithelialisation, and painless dressing change are the advantages of nano-crystalline silver dressing which provide reasons to consider it as highly efficient for application in superficial burns of second degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most commonly performed laparoscopic procedure. The goal of anesthetic management is to minimize stress response and early discharge. Dexmedetomidine, and pregabalin have been used successfully to attenuate laryngoscopy and intubation response in various surgical procedures. Aim: To compare efficacy of pregablin and dexmedetomidine in attenuating hemodynamic and stress response. Setting and Design: A prospective, double blind randomized trial comprising 130 ASA physical status class I and II patients posted for laparsoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods: Patients were randomized in to Group A and Group B. Group A received intravenous dexmedetomidine in a dose of 1ug.kg-1, through an infusion pump 20 min prior to induction of anaesthesia. Group B subjects received oral pregabalin 150 mg. Parameters observed were vitals, discharge time, cortisol level, side effects if any. Results: Post intervention heart rate got reduced significantly in Group A and it remained low in comparison to baseline during whole peri-operative period. In Group B, immediate post-pneumoperitoneum heart rate, and post exubation heart rate was higher than baseline. Blood pressure (BP) decreased significantly post intervention in Group A which persisted till pneumoperitoneum. In Group B there was statistically significant rise in systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure postpneumoperitoneum as compared to baseline blood pressure. Post-operative cortisol level was significantly higher than baseline values and the level is more in Group B. Conclusion: Intravenous dexmedetomidine is more effective than oral pregabalin in attenuating perioperative stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Herbal medicines have less side effects in comparison with traditional medicines, but side effects occur and are safer to use than conventional medications. Herbal medicines have two special characteristics that distinguish them from chemical drugs; use of crude herbs and prolonged usage. Aim: Evaluation of the efficacy of neem and turmeric in wound healing in orthodontic extraction sockets. Materials and Methods: 45 extraction sites were divided in 3 group of 15 each where apart from group left as control, remaining groups recieved Neem and turmeric extyracts respectively. the healing of extraction socket was assessed and compared with the control group. Results: Delayed wound healing was fouond in the control group as compared to the group recieving Herbal extracts. Conclusion: Herbal extract therapy should be administered in extraction sockets though a larger sample size may reveal more comprehensive picture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and acute pancreatitis. We report the case of a 34-year-old female admitted with complaints of recurrent pancreatitis and triglyceride (TG) levels above 995 mg/dl. The patient was started on therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) to achieve a rapid fall (78%) in serum TG levels. We conclude that TPE is a safe and quick therapeutic treatment modality for patients with HTG-induced recurrent acute pancreatitis who fail to respond to conventional therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Purpose of this paper is highlight the importance of adopting FinTech innovations to improve Customer Retention Design/methodology/approach: Authors viewpoint and give a macro perspective of FinTech-Customer Retention linkages. Findings: Adoption of FinTech innovations is essential for customer retention. Practical implications: Many large B2C players are moving strongly ahead with adopting FinTech driven payment solutions. Competitors which ignore this trend, stand to lose customers in the long run. Originality/value: FinTech is a new and developing industry. There has been limited research into its usage by non-financial corporates and impact on customer retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Magnetic resonance imaging; normal tension glaucoma; primary empty sella EN Magnetic resonance imaging normal tension glaucoma primary empty sella 1163 1165 3 06/02/20 20200601 NES 200601 Primary empty sella syndrome (PESS) is caused by an increase in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure or a defect in the diaphragma sellae, where the pituitary gland is absent or present as a thin membrane.[[1]] Optic nerve examination and visual field analysis show glaucomatous changes with normal intraocular pressures (IOPs). Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an empty sella [Figure 3] and venography was non-significant.{Figure 3} Normal tension glaucoma (NTG) is a diagnosis made after excluding causes of burnout glaucoma and previous episodes of acute hemodynamic disturbances.[[2]] In PESS, nerve fibers in optic chiasm are perfused from the posterior communicating arteries, which pass round the infundibulum above the pituitary gland. Magnetic resonance imaging, normal tension glaucoma, primary empty sella. [Extracted from the article]

This study examines the causal relationships between volatility and volume across spot and futures market for the 50 constituent stocks of the CNX NIFTY Index. Granger non-causality tests implemented using vector autoregression (VAR) and asymmetric VAR models indicate the presence of significant causal relations from both the spot and futures volume to both the spot and futures volatility. Bidirectional causal relationships between spot and futures volume were observed for almost all stocks but few stocks displayed a similar relationship between volatilities. The results highlight the importance of volume in absorbing information and its behaviour as the conduit of information. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a noninvasive magnetic resonance (MR) perfusion technique to detect changes in blood flow. This study was undertaken to obtain a reference set of normal values of cerebral blood flow (CBF) in different age groups using three-dimensional pseudocontinuous ASL (3D PCASL) technique. The existence of an age-related decline in the gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) CBF was evaluated. The gender-related CBF was also analyzed.Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty normal volunteers of varying age (6-72 years), arranged in 4 age groups, underwent MR perfusion imaging using 3D PCASL technique at 3 Tesla (T). Mean CBF values in global and regional GM and WM in different age groups were extracted from the quantitative perfusion map.Results: A significant negative correlation was observed between the age and mean GM and WM CBF values (r = -0.80, P = 0.001; r = -0.59, P = 0.001, respectively). Similar results were also observed between age and various regional mean GM and WM CBF values (P = 0.001). No significant effect of gender on the GM CBF and WM CBF was found in any age group (P > 0.05).Conclusion: PCASL technique provides reliable quantitative parameters for the precise mapping of age-related perfusion changes occurring in the normal brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conduct a detailed survey of post-presidential involvement in foreign affairs, identifying eight distinct role types through which former presidents continue to impact the international arena. These roles, though not mutually exclusive, are collectively exhaustive and offer a high degree of descriptive utility. This study departs from typical classifications of ex-presidents according to all-encompassing, abstract phenotypes of personality or character. Disaggregating domestic and foreign policy—and focusing on actual means and impact of former presidents’ influence—we find several insights into the post-presidency, its evolution and its impact. We identify a strong relationship between a president's exit circumstances and subsequent involvement in foreign affairs. We also find that changes in geopolitics, institutions, and communication technologies have altered post-presidential activities, offering expanded opportunities for sustained engagement and placing greater emphasis on shaping public opinion. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ultrasonic power generated by an ultrasonic transducer must be measured and declared for the ultimate safety of patients. According to IEC-61161 radiation force balance is internationally recommended primary method for measurement of total, time averaged ultrasonic power radiated by transducer. In a manual RFB system, the output of microbalance is recorded manually at no radiation force and after transducer excitation. Manual technique suffers from various errors, such as overshoot due to momentum of target, disturbance due to small tilt in target and buoyancy change of target. The developed automated system provides scope to visualize these effects and enables us to considerably reduce effects of above sources and hence improves uncertainty. In this article developmental details and the functionality of an improved automated system is described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To review the clinical pattern and treatment modalities meted out to patients of odontogenic myxoma (OM) in Indian population in last 30 years and also to report 3 cases of OM. Method: A retrospective review of radiograph and histopathology of three cases of odontogenic myxoma treated between 2005 and 2011 was done. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to examine the pattern of vimentin and NSE. Also a computerized literature search using Medline and Google scholar was conducted for published articles on OM in Indian population in last 30 years. Result: A total of 32 OM cases reviewed from 25 articles retrieved. Out of them 24 myxomas were present in maxilla, only 8 were in mandible and a single case was present in supraglottic region (larynx). Surgical procedure carried out was excision and curettage in 16 patients and resection with safe margin followed by reconstruction 13 patients. All the three reported cases were successfully treated by tumor enucleation and peripheral ostectomy with no recurrence after 3 to 7 years. Conclusion: Odontogenic myxoma is a rare odontogenic tumor with inconclusive clinical and radiographic features, hence histopathological examination is mandatory to confirm its diagnosis. Although the immunohistochemical analysis may help in diagnosis but plays no role in guiding treatment planning or predicting the rate of recurrence. Currently we lack data on number of reported OM cases in Indian population as author feels more patients must have been treated then reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maxillofacial region is one of the most injury-prone areas during road traffic accidents, personal violence, falls and sports. Maxillofacial trauma can lead to breakage or avulsion of upper anterior teeth, which may cause significant aesthetic and functional problems. There are many treatment options available for rehabilitation including removable partial dentures, fixed partial dentures, crown and bridges and implantsupported prostheses. Herein, two cases are presented where implant placement was done for upper anterior teeth, which were traumatized or avulsed following maxillofacial trauma. Both patients demonstrated a history of maxillofacial trauma and had undergone open reduction and internal fixation. The first patient had a severe maxillary alveolar defect treated via autogenous bone grafting and a six-month period was given for proper integration of the bone graft. The second patient was a smoker with very poor oral hygiene and a deep bite. Thus, implant placement was not initially justified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]