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Glucuronoxylan is present mainly in the dicot of the secondary cell walls, often O‐acetylated, which stabilizes cell structure by maintaining interaction with cellulose and other cell wall components. Some members of the Golgi localized Trichome Birefringence‐Like (TBL) family function as xylan O‐acetyl transferase (XOAT). The primary XOAT in the stem of Arabidopsis is ESKIMO1/TBL29, and its disruption results in decreased xylan acetylation, stunted plant growth, and collapsed xylem vessels. To elucidate the effect on metabolic reprogramming and identify the underlying cause of the stunted growth in eskimo1, we performed transcriptomic, targeted, and untargeted metabolome analysis, mainly in the inflorescence stem tissue. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the genes involved in the biosynthesis, regulation, and transport of aliphatic glucosinolates (GSLs) were upregulated, whereas those responsible for indolic GSL metabolism were unaffected in the eskimo1 inflorescence stem. Consistently, aliphatic GSLs, such as 4‐methylsulfinylbutyl (4MSOB), were increased in stem tissues and seeds. This shift in the profile of aliphatic GSLs in eskimo1 was further supported by the quantification of the soluble acetate, decrease in accumulation of GSL precursor, i.e., methionine, and increase in the level of jasmonic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiation Heart Disease (RHD) results from thoracic radiotherapy and often necessitates Cardiothoracic Surgery (CTS). This study investigates the Long-Term Survival (LTS) of cardiac surgery patients with RHD. Objective: To evaluate the LTS outcomes for patients with RHD who have undergone cardiac surgery. Materials and Methods: This cohort study involved 268 RHD patients and 400 control patients, matched by age, gender, and type/time of CTS. Most RHD patients had a history of Hodgkin lymphoma or breast cancer, with an average of 20 years to 22 years since radiation therapy. Mortality was analyzed using Multivariate Cox Proportional Hazard Analysis (MCPHA). Results: Clinical and surgical parameters, including all-cause mortality and preoperative STS score, were assessed. The mean STS score was comparable between RHD and control groups. RHD patients had a higher incidence of proximal coronary artery disease but lower rates of redo CTS compared to controls. Approximately two-thirds of patients in both groups underwent combined surgical procedures. Over an average follow-up period of 8 years, the RHD group had a significantly higher mortality rate compared to the control group. Higher mortality was linked to the absence of ß-blockers, a higher STS score, and RHD status in the MCPHA. Conclusions: RHD patients undergoing CTS have reduced LTS compared to non-RHD patients. Improved therapeutic strategies can be needed to enhance survival outcomes for RHD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dissection of complex plant cell wall structures demands a sensitive and quantitative method. FTIR is used regularly as a screening method to identify specific linkages in cell walls. However, quantification and assigning spectral bands to particular cell wall components is still a major challenge, specifically in crop species. In this study, we addressed these challenges using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy as it is a high throughput, cost-effective and non-destructive approach to understand the plant cell wall composition. This method was validated by analysing different varieties of mungbean which is one of the most important legume crops grown widely in Asia. Results: Using standards and extraction of a specific component of cell wall components, we assigned 1050–1060 cm−1 and 1390–1420 cm−1 wavenumbers that can be widely used to quantify cellulose and lignin, respectively, in Arabidopsis, Populus, rice and mungbean. Also, using KBr as a diluent, we established a method that can relatively quantify the cellulose and lignin composition among different tissue types of the above species. We further used this method to quantify cellulose and lignin in field-grown mungbean genotypes. The ATR-FTIR-based study revealed the cellulose content variation ranges from 27.9% to 52.3%, and the lignin content variation ranges from 13.7% to 31.6% in mungbean genotypes. Conclusion: Multivariate analysis of FT-IR data revealed differences in total cell wall (600–2000 cm−1), cellulose (1000–1100 cm−1) and lignin (1390–1420 cm−1) among leaf and stem of four plant species. Overall, our data suggested that ATR-FTIR can be used for the relative quantification of lignin and cellulose in different plant species. This method was successfully applied for rapid screening of cell wall composition in mungbean stem, and similarly, it can be used for screening other crops or tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lignin and xylan are important determinants of cell wall structure and lignocellulosic biomass digestibility. Genetic manipulations that individually modify either lignin or xylan structure improve polysaccharide digestibility. However, the effects of their simultaneous modifications have not been explored in a similar context. Here, both individual and combinatorial modification in xylan and lignin was studied by analysing the effect on plant cell wall properties, biotic stress responses and integrity sensing. Results: Arabidopsis plant co-harbouring mutation in FERULATE 5-HYDROXYLASE (F5H) and overexpressing Aspergillus niger acetyl xylan esterase (35S:AnAXE1) were generated and displayed normal growth attributes with intact xylem architecture. This fah1-2/35S:AnAXE1 cross was named as hyper G lignin and hypoacetylated (HrGHypAc) line. The HrGHypAc plants showed increased crystalline cellulose content with enhanced digestibility after chemical and enzymatic pre-treatment. Moreover, both parents and HrGHypAc without and after pre-treating with glucuronyl esterase and alpha glucuronidase exhibited an increase in xylose release after xylanase digestion as compared to wild type. The de-pectinated fraction in HrGHypAc displayed elevated levels of xylan and cellulose. Furthermore, the transcriptomic analysis revealed differential expression in cell wall biosynthetic, transcription factors and wall-associated kinases genes implying the role of lignin and xylan modification on cellular regulatory processes. Conclusions: Simultaneous modification in xylan and lignin enhances cellulose content with improved saccharification efficiency. These modifications loosen cell wall complexity and hence resulted in enhanced xylose and xylobiose release with or without pretreatment after xylanase digestion in both parent and HrGHypAc. This study also revealed that the disruption of xylan and lignin structure is possible without compromising either growth and development or defense responses against Pseudomonas syringae infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a very rare immune mediated disorder which is associated with demyelination of peripheral nervous system and progressive muscle weakness that occurs mostly in previously healthy individuals. It usually presents with ascending paralysis and is severe enough to warrant hospital admission for its management. Methodology: The current study is a retrospective, observational study was conducted for the assessment of clinical profile data and treatment pattern of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Result: According to our data, we observe that treatment like IVIG, Plasmapheresis, Nutrition therapy; Analgesic etc. are the common medication prescribed by the physicians as per patient condition. AIDP is the most common sub-type of GBS was observed in patients, with about 60% AIDP, 20%AMAN, 20% MFS patients were observed. The mostly observed symptoms in the GBS are weakness of limbs, bifacial weakness, slurring of speech and fever. As per our data about 72% of males and 28% of females were diagnosed with GBS. Conclusion: Both IVIG and Plasmapheresis treatment showed significant improvement within our study setting IVIG was the preferred treatment option due to low side effect profile and ease of administration however cost of treatment is higher compared to Plasmapheresis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant cell wall-derived oligosaccharides, i.e., damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), could be generated after pathogen attack or during normal plant development, perceived by cell wall receptors, and can alter immunity and cell wall composition. Therefore, we hypothesised that xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) could act as an elicitor and trigger immune responses. To test this, we treated Arabidopsis with xylobiose (XB) and investigated different parameters. XB-treatment significantly triggered the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), activated MAPK protein phosphorylation, and induced callose deposition. The combination of XB (DAMP) and flg22 a microbe-associated molecular pattern (MAMP) further enhanced ROS response and gene expression of PTI marker genes. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that more genes were differentially regulated after 30 min compared to 24 h XB-treated leaves, which correlated with ROS response. Increased xylosidase activity and soluble xylose level after 30 min and 3 h of XB-treatment were observed which might have weakened the DAMP response. However, an increase in total cell wall sugar and a decrease in uronic acid level was observed at both 30 min and 24 h. Additionally, arabinose, rhamnose, and xylose levels were increased in 30 min, and glucose was increased in 24 h compared to mock-treated leaves. The level of jasmonic acid, abscisic acid, auxin, and cytokinin were also affected after XB treatment. Overall, our data revealed that the shortest XOS can act as a DAMP, which triggers the PTI response and alters cell wall composition and hormone level. Key message: Xylobiose treatment in Arabidopsis rosette leaf induces plant-triggered immunity (PTI) responses, alters cell wall polysaccharide composition and influences growth hormone levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Young adults with Visual impairment (VI) challenge the dentists' skills and knowledge due to a higher risk of developing oral diseases due to difficulty in attaining good oral hygiene (OH). Aims: To assess the effectiveness of ATP (Audio‐Tactile Performance) technique and braille versus braille alone in improving OH status of young adults with VI. Methods and material: A parallel arm, randomized controlled trial was conducted among 70 young adults with VI. Participants were randomly allocated to either test group (braille combined with ATP) or control group (braille alone). A pre‐validated braille questionnaire was used to obtain the baseline data followed by clinical examination. OH status assessment was recorded through Gingival Index (GI) and Plaque Index (PI) proforma followed by a thorough ultrasonic oral prophylaxis. Periodic reinforcement was carried out on the 7th day, after 1 month and 3 months. The outcomes were assessed at the end of 3rd and 6th month. Results: There was an increase in the knowledge scores after 3 and 6 months and attitude scores, GI scores and PI scores after 6 months in the test group compared to the control group and this difference was found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that a combination of ATP and braille proved to be more effective than braille alone in improving the knowledge and OH status of young adults with VI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human antibiotic formulations in animal feed for therapeutic and non-therapeutic purposes have contributed to antimicrobial resistance worldwide; however, little evidence is available in low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to generate evidence of antibiotic use across the human and animal health sectors by investigating the overlap in antibiotic use in community settings in rural blocks of Pune District, India, following the World Health Organization's (WHO) Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) classification. Materials and Methods: An exploratory pilot study using a cross-sectional design in two randomly selected rural blocks of the Pune district included 138 interviews with general physicians (GPs, n = 62), pharmacists (n = 60), and veterinary practitioners (n = 16) using semi-structured interview schedules and the WHO AWaRe classification. IBM-Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Version 21.0 software was used for descriptive statistics and to calculate the proportions of the different antibiotic groups. The WHO AWaRe classification was used to describe antibiotic use by the study participants and to assess the overlap in antibiotic use. Results: Our study provides evidence of an overlap in human and animal antibiotic use in rural community settings across the human and animal health sectors. Amoxicillin (access group), penicillin (access group), and ofloxacin (watch group) were used in both human and animal health. Amoxicillin and penicillin were used to treat common bacterial infections, ofloxacin was used to treat skin infections in humans and animals, and ofloxacin was used to treat pneumonia in animals and urinary bladder infections in humans. In contrast, azithromycin (watch group), cefixime (watch group), and amoxicillin (Access Group), with or without other antibiotics, were the most commonly used antibiotics by GPs in humans. Conclusion: We confirmed the overlap in antibiotic use across the human and animal health sectors in rural community settings, suggesting the need for interventions following the One Health approach. Further, research is required to assess the patterns of this overlap, as well as behavior, knowledge, and potential solutions to help avoid this overlap and prevent the rampant use of antibiotics in the animal and human health sectors in rural community settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of pertinent literature on the impact of motivation on student learning. Motivation is a key factor in determining students’ engagement, effort and achievement in educational settings. With an exploration of various theoretical frameworks, empirical studies as well as practical applications, this paper seeks to shed light on the multifaceted relationship between motivation and student learning outcomes. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of how motivation can be effectively harnessed to enhance educational practices and promote optimal student learning experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of flow and mixing dynamics for conventional micromixers as well as micromixers with split and recombine (SAR) units has been carried out using laminar and transport diluted physics modules. Initially, a pilot numerical analysis was done for the basic Y-shaped curved, rectangular and triangular serpentine micromixers. Later, SAR units have been added to these basic designs and the effect of SAR units on the performance characteristics viz., mixing index, pressure drop, performance index and pumping power has been studied. In-depth qualitative analysis was also carried out to visualize the flow and mixing dynamics for the Reynolds number in the range from 0.1–50. The study results revealed that the square shaped chambers and circular obstacle based rectangular serpentine micromixer (SCCO-RSM) demonstrated better performance as compared to the other designs. The proposed micromixer is the better candidate for microfluidics applications such as Lab-On-a-Chip (LOC), Micro-Total-Analysis-Systems (µTAS) and Point of Care Testing (POCT), etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seed size and shape in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) are important quality traits as these influences the milled grain yield, cooking time, and market class of the grains. Linkage analysis was done for seed size in a RIL (F5:6) population derived by crossing L830 (20.9 g/1000 seeds) with L4602 (42.13 g/1000 seeds) which consisted of 188 lines (15.0 to 40.5 g/1000 seeds). Parental polymorphism survey using 394 SSRs identified 31 polymorphic primers, which were used for the bulked segregant analysis (BSA). Marker PBALC449 differentiated the parents and small seed size bulk only, whereas large seeded bulk or the individual plants constituting the largeseeded bulk could not be differentiated. Single plant analysis identified only six recombinant and 13 heterozygotes, of 93 small-seeded RILs (<24.0 g/1000 seed). This clearly showed that the small seed size trait is very strongly regulated by the locus near PBLAC449; whereas, large seed size trait seems governed by more than one locus. The PCR amplified products from the PBLAC449 marker (149bp from L4602 and 131bp from L830) were cloned, sequenced and BLAST searched using the lentil reference genome and was found amplified from chromosome 03. Afterward, the nearby region on chromosome 3 was searched, and a few candidate genes like ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase, E3 ubiquitin ligase, TIFY-like protein, and hexosyltransferase having a role in seed size determination were identified. Validation study in another RIL mapping population which is differing for seed size, showed a number of SNPs and InDels among these genes when studied using whole genome resequencing (WGRS) approach. Biochemical parameters like cellulose, lignin, and xylose content showed no significant differences between parents and the extreme RILs, at maturity. Various seed morphological traits like area, length, width, compactness, volume, perimeter, etc., when measured using VideometerLab 4.0 showed significant differences for the parents and RILs. The results have ultimately helped in better understanding the region regulating the seed size trait in genomically less explored crops like lentils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidic devices/systems, including Micro-Total-Analysis-System (µTAS), Point of Care Testing (POCT) and Lab-On-a-Chip (LOC) are used in many chemical and biological assays applications. Among the vital tasks that these microfluidic devices must achieve essentially include a high degree of mixing and accordingly, micromixers are being used for the same purpose. The design depends on the yield required in particular application. In the proposed study, the four kinds of heart-shaped micromixers with different obstacles have been studied through simulations. The influence of the shape and size of different obstacles viz., circular shape, diamond shape, teardrop shape, and heart shape obstacles on the performance characteristics has been studied. The performance characteristics namely, the mixing index and pressure drop have been used. In accordance with the study, a heart-shaped micromixer with heart shape obstacles (HSM-HSO) has come out to be the most efficient micromixer due to the significant chaotic convection effect. The heart-shaped micromixer with heart shape obstacles (HSM-HSO) of size 0.350 µm × 0.350 µm has shown better performance for a wider range of Reynolds number (Re), i.e., mixing index of Re > 0.99, for Re of 0.1 and Re in the range of 15–45. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, organizations look for candidates who possess future skills. Students and instructors from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in India participated in this study to find the skill level required for being considered for employment. The results of the study show that employability skills include future skills like communication skills, digital skills, entrepreneurship skills, personal and interpersonal skills, and ethical-cum-critical thinking skills. The study finds no significant difference in the views of students and teachers regarding the implementation/imbibing of future skills required for employment. The study recommends that HEIs should partner with the industry to train students so that they have the relevant skills to be employable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Market class, cooking time, quality, and milled grain yield are largely influenced by the seed size and shape of the lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.); thus, they are considered to be important quality traits. To unfold the pathways regulating seed size in lentils, a transcriptomic approach was performed using largeseeded (L4602) and small-seeded (L830) genotypes. The study has generated nearly 375 million high-quality reads, of which 98.70% were properly aligned to the reference genome. Among biological replicates, very high similarity in fragments per kilobase of exon per million mapped fragments values (R > 0.9) showed the consistency of RNA-seq results. Various differentially expressed genes associated mainly with the hormone signaling and cell division pathways, transcription factors, kinases, etc. were identified as having a role in cell expansion and seed growth. A total of 106,996 unigenes were used for differential expression (DE) analysis. String analysis identified various modules having certain key proteins like Ser/Thr protein kinase, seed storage protein, DNA-binding protein, microtubule-associated protein, etc. In addition, some growth and cell division–related micro-RNAs like miR3457 (cell wall formation), miR1440 (cell proliferation and cell cycles), and miR1533 (biosynthesis of plant hormones) were identified as having a role in seed size determination. Using RNA-seq data, 5254 EST-SSR primers were generated as a source for future studies aiming for the identification of linked markers. In silico validation using Genevestigator® was done for the Ser/Thr protein kinase, ethylene response factor, and Myb transcription factor genes. It is of interest that the xyloglucan endotransglucosylase gene was found differentially regulated, suggesting their role during seed development; however, at maturity, no significant differences were recorded for various cell wall parameters including cellulose, lignin, and xylose content. This is the first report on lentils that has unfolded the key seed size regulating pathways and unveiled a theoretical way for the development of lentil genotypes having customized seed sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acetyl substitution on the xylan chain is critical for stable interaction with cellulose and other cell wall polymers in the secondary cell wall. Xylan acetylation pattern is governed by Golgi and extracellular localized acetyl xylan esterase (AXE). We investigated the role of Arabidopsis clade Id from the GDSL esterase/lipase or GELP family in polysaccharide deacetylation. The investigation of the AtGELP7 T-DNA mutant line showed a decrease in stem esterase activity and an increase in stem acetyl content. We further generated overexpressor AtGELP7 transgenic lines, and these lines showed an increase in AXE activity and a decrease in xylan acetylation compared to wild-type plants. Therefore, we have named this enzyme as AtAXE1. The subcellular localization and immunoblot studies showed that the AtAXE1 enzyme is secreted out, associated with the plasma membrane and involved in xylan de-esterification post-synthesis. The cellulose digestibility was improved in AtAXE1 overexpressor lines without pre-treatment, after alkali and xylanases pre-treatment. Furthermore, we have also established that the AtGELP7 gene is upregulated in the overexpressor line of AtMYB46, a secondary cell wall specific transcription factor. This transcriptional regulation can drive AtGELP7 or AtAXE1 to perform de-esterification of xylan in a tissue-specific manner. Overall, these data suggest that AtGELP7 overexpression in Arabidopsis reduces xylan acetylation and improves digestibility properties of polysaccharides of stem lignocellulosic biomass. Keymesage: Identification and characterisation of Arabidopsis acetyl xylan esterase from GELP family [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of the DACB in a clinical setting and compare the efficacy of postoperative pain relief after TKR in the patients administered DACB versus USG guided ACB. Also to see efficacy and safety of USACB in patients operated with medial parapatellar and subvastus approach. Material and methods 250 consecutive patients operated with TKR between Jan 2019 to March 2022 were included. Group A included patients operated with medial parapatellar approach and received USACB, Group B included patients operated with medial parapatellar approach and received DACB while Group C included patients operated with subvastus approach and received USACB. VAS scores between three groups were compared at 12 and 24 h. All three groups of patients were otherwise treated identically in the hospital. Results The mean age and BMI was not statistically significant between the three groups. The mean VAS pain score at rest at 12 h was 3.06 ± 1.49 (Group A) vs 1.58 ± 1.19 (Group B) [p < 0.0001] and 3.06 ± 1.49 (Group A) vs 1.88 ± 1.18 (Group C) [p < 0.0001]; and at 24 h was 1.88 ± 1.31 (Group A) vs 2.39 ± 1.27 (Group B) [p = 0.023] and 1.88 ± 1.31 (Group A) vs 2.19 ± 1.29 (Group C) [p = 0.16]. The mean theatre time was 151.9 ± 11.37 min (Group A) vs 141.02 ± 19.46 min (Group B) (p = 0.0003) and 151.9 ± 11.37 min (Group A) vs 150.4 ± 28.74 min (Group C) (p = 0.72). Hospital stay was 3.82 ± 0.80 (Group A) vs 4.0 ± 1.09 (Group B) [p = 0.30] and 3.82 ± 0.80 (Group A) vs 2.7 ± 0.69 (Group C) [p < 0.0001]. Group B and Group C had one complication each. Conclusion USG ACB irrespective of approach used remains the gold standard in providing consistent pain relief and thereby facilitating early discharge. However, increased operating room turnover time and repeated top-ups remain a disadvantage. Both the quantum of pain relief and the potential downsides remained the same irrespective of the surgical approach used and whether or not steroid was added to the cocktail used for infiltration. On the other hand, DACB provides a short lasting (24 h) adequate pain relief after TKR with similar low complication rates. The technique of DACB may have a potential for a wider use especially in centres where outpatient arthroplasties are performed, if newer longer acting anaesthetic/analgesic combinations are devised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Three different configurations of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT) were fabricated by changing the storey height and their orientations. The purpose of this study is to find the effect of storey height and orientation on the performance of wind turbines. The multistory VAWT has three storeys. The first configuration had increased middle storey height, with 0–90-0 orientation of blades. Wherein the second turbine had equal storey heights. The third configuration had increased middle storey height with 0–120-240 orientation of blades. The blades were tested numerically and experimentally. Design/methodology/approach: In this research work, prototypes of innovative multistory VAWT were built with different configurations and orientations. Three configurations of three-storey VAWT were fabricated by varying the height of storey of turbines. The orientations were made by keeping the storeys orthogonal to each other. Multistory VAWT was tested numerically and experimentally. ANSYS Fluent was used for computational fluid dynamic analysis of VAWT. K-epsilon model was used for numerical analysis of wind turbine. Experimentation was carried out in a wind tunnel for different tip speed ratios (TSR). Findings: The three configurations of innovative multistory VAWT were tested numerically and experimentally for different TSR. It has been found that the VAWT with equal storey height had a better performance as compared to the other two configurations with increased middle storey height. The power coefficient of equal storey height VAWT was about 22%, wherein the power coefficient of turbines with reduced upper and lower storey height was between 5%–8%. Research limitations/implications: The research work of multi-storey VAWT is very novel and original. The findings of the research will contribute to the existing work done in the field of VAWT. This will help other researchers to have insight into the development of multistory VAWT. The effect of storey height and configuration of multi-storey VAWT is studied numerically and experimentally, which concludes that the performance of equal storey is superior as compared to other configurations. Practical implications: The multi-storey concept of VAWT was developed to counter the problem of wind direction. The blades of each storey were arranged orthogonal to each other. This helped to harness wind power irrespective of the direction of the wind. This will make the VAWT more sustainable and financially viable for domestic use. Social implications: The turbines are specially designed for remotely located housed in rural areas where the power grid is not yet reached. Users can install the turbine on their rooftop and harness wind power of 100 W capacity. This will help them to make their life easy. Originality/value: This research work is very original and first of a kind. The multistory concept of the wind turbine was checked for the effect of storey height and orientations of blades on its performance. Different configurations and orientations of the vertical axis were designed and developed for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roof arc angle (RAA) is determined by measuring angle between a vertical line drawn from center of the acetabulum towards the acetabular dome and a second line drawn from center of acetabulum to the fracture through the acetabulum. Joel and Matta demonstrated that when roof arc angle was less than 45° on Pelvic AP and Judet's views, the fracture line is considered to be passing through the weight-bearing dome and require surgical fixation. The main purpose of the study is to calculate patient-specific angle and width for the better evaluation and management of acetabular fractures. Radiographs of normal hips were retrieved from electronic data and parameters were calculated. Two observers calculated the parameters at two different intervals. Pearson correlation formula was used to find a correlation between groups. Fifty radiographs of 28 patients were reviewed. The mean age of patients was 75.58 years ±13.28. The radius of the acetabulum, the radiographic measurement of sector width for 45° angulation at the roof, and the mathematical calculation for roof arc for 45° angle had significant positive correlation for both observers at two different occasions. The measured roof arc width ranges from a minimum of 16.20 mm–31.50 mm and the calculated arc width for a 45-degree angle varies from a minimum of 15 mm–25.56 mm. These values are higher than the described values of 10 mm equals to 45 degrees. Hence, the values measured in this study should be considered for decision making in the management of acetabular fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2). The disease was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province, and has since spread globally, resulting in the ongoing 2019-20 coronavirus pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has placed incredible tension on healthcare systems around the globe. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include muscle pain, diarrhea, sore throat, loss of smell, and abdominal pain. It is challenging for doctors and physicians to distinguish COVID-19 from other acute respiratory tract infections via clinical symptoms because those who are infected display a wide range of symptoms. An effective, point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tool could ease healthcare system strain, protect healthcare professionals, and support quarantine efforts. With a lack of effective medical treatments or vaccines for COVID-19, early identification and patient isolation has been the most effective means of disease management to slow the spread of the pandemic. COVID-19 testing involves analyzing samples to assess the current or past presence of SARS-CoV-2. The two main branches detect either the presence of the virus or of antibodies produced in response to infection. Test analysis is often performed in automated, high-throughput, medical laboratories by medical laboratory scientists. In this article, we have discussed the currently used diagnostic tests for detection of Coronavirus and COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been an exponential increase in knee arthroplasty over the past 20 years. This has led to a quest for improvement in outcomes and patient satisfaction. While the last decade of last century proved to be the decade for Computer-Assisted Surgery (CAS) or Computer Navigation wherein the technology demonstrated a clear benefit in terms of improving mechanical axis alignment and component positioning, this decade is likely to belong to Robotics. Robotics adds an independent dimension to the benefits that CAS offers. The article deals with the generation of robots, technical steps in robotics, advantages and downsides of robotics and way forward in the field of knee arthroplasty. Materials and Methods: The review article was designed and edited by six different authors reviewing 32 relevant pubmed-based articles related to robotics in arthroplasty and orthopaedics. The concept, design and the definition of the intellectual content were based on the internationally published literature and insightful articles. The review is also based on the clinical experimental studies published in the literature. Discussion: The robotic arm is actively involved with surgeon to achieve the precision and outcomes that the surgeon aims for. With the concept of haptic boundaries and augmented reality being incorporated in most systems, Robotic Assisted Arthroplasty (RAA) is likely to offer several advantages. The potential advantages of these systems may include accuracy in gap balancing, component positioning, minimal bone resection, reduced soft tissue handling and trauma, patient anatomy specific resection, and real time feedback. They, however, come with their own downsides in terms of capital cost, learning curve, time consumption and unclear advantages in term of long-term clinical outcomes. Conclusion: To conclude, this review article offers a balanced view on how the technology is impacting current arthroplasty practice and what can be expected in coming years. The commitment of almost all major implant manufacturers in investing in robotics likely means that the evolution of Robotic technology and this decade will be exciting with rapid strides revealing paradigm shift and evolution of technology with significant reductions of cost enabling it to be available universally. For technology to populate in operating room, I think it will be result of exposure of young surgeons to these computers and robotics, as they grow in with confidence with technology from residency days to offer better precision in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Populus deltoides is a fast-growing woody species possessing plethora of industrial applications. This species evolutionarily developed unisexual male and female catkin inflorescence on separate trees. Flowering usually occurs during early spring before the development of foliage, where buds appear near axils or at the extending shoots. In 2019, surveys were undertaken to study the flowering pattern of P. deltoides in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand in northern India. Interestingly, an anomalous flowering behaviour (appearance of off-season male catkins during autumn, i.e. October) was observed in a plantation trial at Kapurthala, Punjab. The male catkins were 2.7–3.1 ± 0.07 cm long and 0.3–0.5 ± 0.03 cm wide, which is significant for flowering and liberation of pollen grains. Preliminary results suggested that climatic factors, such as episodes of high or low temperature and the precipitation variation forcing the tree species to behave differently. Unearthing the climate-driven off-season flowering in other tree species alluded the stimulation of phytohormones, such as gibberellic and salicylic acid concentrations influencing the flowering time, therefore, needs further investigation in case of P. deltoides. Overall, this work provides early clues of changing climatic scenario altering the flowering pattern of a tropical forestry tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus-2 is a novel coronavirus belonging to the family Coronaviridae and is now known to be responsible for the outbreak of a series of recent acute atypical respiratory infections originating in Wuhan, China. The disease caused by this virus, termed coronavirus disease 19 or simply COVID-19, has rapidly spread throughout the world at an alarming pace and has been declared a pandemic by the WHO on March 11, 2020. Today, there are thousands of infections and deaths that have been caused by the disease. Moreover, the symptoms of the disease include fever, cough, sneezing, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and tiredness. Additionally, the diagnosis of the disease starts by gathering samples of the upper and lower respiratory tracts of the infected person. Also, chest X-rays and CT scan are used in the diagnosis stage. Basically, there is no precise treatment for the ailment, and this calls for the need to prevent the disease from spreading. Notable prevention strategies are isolation of the infected persons, proper ventilation, hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of biofuels and "green" chemicals from the lignocellulose of fast-growing hardwood species is hampered by extensive acetylation of xylan. Different strategies have been implemented to reduce xylan acetylation, resulting in transgenic plants that show good growth in the greenhouse, improved saccharification and fermentation, but the field performance of such plants has not yet been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of reduced acetylation on field productivity and identify the best strategies for decreasing acetylation. Growth and biological stress data were evaluated for 18 hybrid aspen lines with 10–20% reductions in the cell wall acetyl content from a five year field experiment in Southern Sweden. The reduction in acetyl content was achieved either by suppressing the process of acetylation in the Golgi by reducing expression of REDUCED WALL ACETYLATION (RWA) genes, or by post-synthetic acetyl removal by fungal acetyl xylan esterases (AXEs) from two different families, CE1 and CE5, targeting them to cell walls. Transgene expression was regulated by either a constitutive promoter (35S) or a wood-specific promoter (WP). For the majority of transgenic lines, growth was either similar to that in WT and transgenic control (WP:GUS) plants, or slightly reduced. The slight reduction was observed in the AXE-expressing lines regulated by the 35S promoter, not those with the WP promoter which limits expression to cells developing secondary walls. Expressing AXEs regulated by the 35S promoter resulted in increased foliar arthropod chewing, and altered condensed tannins and salicinoid phenolic glucosides (SPGs) profiles. Greater growth inhibition was observed in the case of CE5 than with CE1 AXE, and it was associated with increased foliar necrosis and distinct SPG profiles, suggesting that CE5 AXE could be recognized by the pathogen-associated molecular pattern system. For each of three different constructs, there was a line with dwarfism and growth abnormalities, suggesting random genetic/epigenetic changes. This high frequency of dwarfism (17%) is suggestive of a link between acetyl metabolism and chromatin function. These data represent the first evaluation of acetyl-reduced plants from the field, indicating some possible pitfalls, and identifying the best strategies, when developing highly productive acetyl-reduced feedstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast-growing broad-leaf tree species can serve as feedstocks for production of bio-based chemicals and fuels through biochemical conversion of wood to monosaccharides. This conversion is hampered by the xylan acetylation pattern. To reduce xylan acetylation in the wood, the Hypocrea jecorina acetyl xylan esterase (Hj AXE) from carbohydrate esterase (CE) family 5 was expressed in hybrid aspen under the control of the wood-specific Pt GT43B promoter and targeted to the secretory pathway. The enzyme was predicted to deacetylate polymeric xylan in the vicinity of cellulose due to the presence of a cellulose-binding module. Cell-wall-bound protein fractions from developing wood of transgenic plants were capable of releasing acetyl from finely ground wood powder, indicative of active AXE present in cell walls of these plants, whereas no such activity was detected in wild-type plants. The transgenic lines grew in height and diameter as well as wild-type trees, whereas their internodes were slightly shorter, indicating higher leaf production. The average acetyl content in the wood of these lines was reduced by 13%, mainly due to reductions in di-acetylated xylose units, and in C-2 and C-3 mono-acetylated xylose units. Analysis of soluble cell wall polysaccharides revealed a 4% reduction in the fraction of xylose units and an 18% increase in the fraction of glucose units, whereas the contents of cellulose and lignin were not affected. Enzymatic saccharification of wood from transgenic plants resulted in 27% higher glucose yield than for wild-type plants. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis and Simons' staining pointed toward larger surface area and improved cellulose accessibility for wood from transgenic plants compared to wood from wild-type plants, which could be achieved by Hj AXE deacetylating xylan bound to cellulose. The results show that CE5 family can serve as a source of enzymes for in planta reduction of recalcitrance to saccharification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise control over the drug delivery involved in several vital applications including healthcare is required for achieving a therapeutic effect. For such precise control/manipulation of the drugs, micropumps are used. These micropumps are basically of two types viz. check valve-based and valveless micropumps. The valveless micropumps are preferable due to the congestion-free operation of diffuser/nozzle valves. In this paper, design optimization of a valveless piezo-electric actuation based micropump is carried out using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.0 by coupling two Multiphysics interface modules namely fluid–structure interaction and piezoelectric physics modules. Using simulation studies, the influence of pump design parameters including diffuser angle, diffuser length, neck width, chamber depth, chamber diameter and diaphragm thickness on net flow rate is studied. An optimal set of design parameters for the proposed micropump is identified. Further, the influence of actuation frequency on the flow rate is analysed. It is found that the proposed micropump is capable to deliver a net flow rate of 20 µl/min and a maximum back pressure attainable is 200 Pa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional CFD simulations carried to evaluate mixing performance of two designs of micromixers namely RB-TSAR and EB-TSAR. The results of flow physics analysis indicate that the interfacial area between the two flow fluids can be enhanced by creating a flow in transverse direction with the help of split and recombination of fluid streams by placing baffles in diffuser shaped mixing elements along the axial direction. Further, the simulation results indicate that at inlet Reynolds number below 1, the molecular diffusion is the most dominant mechanism of mixing, and the mixing index is almost the same for all cases. However at Re > 5, the secondary flow influencing the mixing process dramatically and thus mixing index is increased. The results also reveal that baffles can break the fluid streams, produce fluid convection and increase the contact area of the fluid by folding and deflecting which in turn helps to improve the mixing index. The split and recombination of the fluid streams and separation vortices play vital role in enhancing the mixing performance. The design configurations studied here showed mixing index higher than 0.85 for the Re in the range from 10 to 50. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Category: Trauma; Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Combined reconstruction of chronic deltoid and spring ligament insufficiency is pretty uncommon and literature surrounding that is rare. The purpose of our study was discuss our experience in treating post-traumatic, chronic deltoid and spring ligament insufficiency utilising a technique called the "Quadrangular Construct" (combined deltoid and spring ligament reconstruction), which uses fibertape together with suture anchor fixation which anatomically resembles the ligament complex. Methods: A total of five patients were included in the study who had post traumatic combined deltoid and spring ligament insufficiency. All patients had a "giving away sensation". Preoperatively, every patient had underwent weight-bearing radiographs of ankle and foot. Talo 1st Metatarsal angle & hind-foot alignment angle using Saltzman view were noted. Ankle arthroscopy was performed for diagnosis and removal of intra-articular fibrous tissue. Superficial deltoid ligament was repaired using suture anchor. This was augmented with Internal Brace TM (Arthrex, Naples, USA) fibertape forming a quadrangular construct which anatomically mimics tibio-navicular, anterior tibio-talar, tibio-calcaneal and spring ligament components of the deltoid-spring complex. Due to associated excessive heel valgus, three patients also underwent medial displacement calcaneum osteotomy. Additionally, one patient required lateral ligament repair and one patient required syndesmotic stabilisation. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hind foot score was used to evaluate pre and post operative ankle function. Results: All five patients were followed up for a mean of 20 months (12–24 months). The mean angle between the long axes of the talus and first metatarsal bone on preoperative weight-bearing radiographs improved from 8.46° to 4.84°. Preoperative mean angle of hind-foot alignment in the Saltzman view was reduced from 10.9° to 5.76° post operatively. Pain was relieved postoperatively in all patients. One patient has irritation due to metal anchor which needed removal after one year. Postoperatively, none of the patients had re-experienced "feeling of giving way" sensation. AOFAS scores showed, two patients being considered excellent, two good, and one fair. All the patients could perform their ADL & recreational activities independently, and returned to their pre injury work. Conclusion: It is uncommon and challenging to treat post-traumatic chronic deltoid and spring ligament insufficiency. Our technique of combined deltoid and spring ligament reconstruction using a quadrangular construct aids in anatomical restoration of stability, is safe, cost effective, and easily reproducible, and has a positive short-term follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ashwagandha is also known Indian ginseng, or winter cherry. It is one of the important herbs in the Ayurvedic and indigenous medical systems of medicine since long time. The roots of the plant are categorized as Rasayanas and described to promote health and longevity by augmenting defenses against disease, arresting the ageing process, revitalizing the body in debilitated conditions, and thus creating a sense of wellbeing. Ashwagandha contains mainly alkaloids (withanine, withasomnin, steroidal lactones (Withanoloids), and glycosides (Sitoindosides). It possesses analgesic, mildly sedative, anti-inflammatory and anabolic activities, and it is useful in stress, strain, fatigue, pain, skin diseases, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and epilepsy, chronic fatigue syndrome and even during pregnancy without any side effects. The present review describes the general pharmacognostic features, phytochemistry, biopotential, methods of analysis, market potential and regulatory status of Ashwagandha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Concordance of multiple anthelmintic resistances for gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants by three average-based and two individually based fecal egg count reduction (FECR) tests was evaluated and corrected. Methods: Sheep and goats (≥ 8 weeks) from five farms were randomly assigned to three treatment groups (I, II, III; n = 10 per group) and one untreated control group (Group IV; n = 10). Group I received fenbendazole at the dose rate of 5 and 10 mg/kg, Group II received ivermectin at the dose rate of 0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg, and Group III received levamisole at the dose rate of 8 and 12 mg/kg body weight orally for sheep and goat, respectively. Three average-based methods of FECR (FECR1, FECR2 and FECR3) and two individually based methods of FECR (iFECR1 and iFECR2) were evaluated. Results: For fenbendazole resistance, Spearman correlation coefficient for FECR1 was non-significant with other formulae, but for FECR2 with FECR3, FECR3 with iFECR1 and iFECR1 with iFECR2 coincidence was significant at 1%, while for FECR2 with iFECR2 and FECR3 with iFECR2 it was significant at 5%. Spearman correlation coefficients for ivermectin resistance were significant at 1% level and for levamisole it showed significant coincidence at 1% for FECR1 with FECR2 and iFECR1, FECR2 with FECR3 and iFECR1, and iFECR1 with iFECR2, while for FECR1 with FECR3 and iFECR2 coincidence was significant at 5% level. Concordance of kappa values indicated that the coincidence of the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance (95% CI) among the five farms was non-significant. Conclusions: Concordance between the standard average-based FECR and individually based methods suggests that either method could be applied to small ruminant farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An eye shaped split and collision micromixer having low-pressure drop is proposed, which works on the concept of unbalanced splits and cross-collisions of fluid streams. The 3-D Navier–Stokes equations in combination with an advection–diffusion model were solved for the analysis with water and ethanol as working fluids. The in-depth analysis of the flow features and the mixing performance parameters viz. mixing index and pressure drop of the micromixer has been carried out. The micromixer model is composed of two sub-channels of equal/unequal widths which repeatedly undergo splitting and collision of fluid streams along the flow direction. The numerical study has been carried out on the micromixer at Reynolds numbers ranging from 0.1 to 45. The difference between the mass flow rates in the two sub-channels creates an unbalanced collision of the two fluid streams. Mixing enhancement is mainly due to the effect of unbalanced collisions of the fluid streams. The micromixers show exciting flow features for different ratios of the widths of the sub-channels. The ratios of a width of subchannels viz. 1, 1.4 and 2 are considered. The highest mixing performance has been observed for the width ratio of 2, whereas poor mixing performance has been observed for the width ratio of 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A numerical analysis is carried out to study the effect of pin fin geometry on the performance of microchannel heat sinks. Design/methodology/approach: A three-dimensional numerical analysis is carried out using the conjugate heat transfer module of COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS software. Initially, the study is carried out for a microchannel heat sink with elliptical pin fins of 500 µm fin height, and the results of the same are validated with the results obtained from the literature. Further, the effect of different pin fin shapes and pin fin heights is investigated in terms of Nusselt number and pressure drop. The analysis is carried out with different pin fin shapes viz. ellipse, circle, square and hexagon. The pin fin height for all channels is varied from 300 µm to 700 µm. The total surface area of the channel coming into contact with coolant is kept constant for different coolant inflow velocities. Findings: Higher values of Nusselt numbers are obtained for fin pins at larger height and high coolant inlet velocities. At coolant inlet velocity of 1 m/s, as pin fin height increases from 300 µm to 700 µm, the channel with circular pin fins shows a maximum increment of 66 % and elliptical pin fins shows a minimum increment of 40 % in terms of Nusselt number. A maximum value of Nusselt number observed is 21.36 with square pin fins of 700 µm fin height and a minimum of 6.03 Nusselt number with circular fins of 300 µm fin height. OriginalityOriginality/Value: This study is useful in appropriate selection of pin fin geometry for enhancing the performance of microchannel heat sink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance analysis of wavy micromixers with split and recombine (SAR) elements has been carried out. The two types of SAR elements viz. circular split and recombine elements and elliptical split and recombine elements are used to get benefit of SAR mechanism. The main concept in the proposed design is to enhance the interfacial area between the two fluids by creating a transverse flow and split and recombination of fluid flow streams with the help of SAR elements. The effects of balanced split and unbalanced split of SAR elements and operational parameter Reynolds number on the mixing index and pressure drop are evaluated. The COMSOL Multiphysics 5.0 is used for computational fluid dynamics analysis of micromixers. The analysis is carried out for balanced and unbalanced split of the mixing elements at various Reynolds numbers in the range of 0.1-75. The computation interfacial patterns on the planes perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow, mixing index and pressure drop are studied in depth. The results indicate that at inlet Reynolds number below 5, the mixing performance is diffusion dominated. However at Reynolds number greater than 5, the mixing index increases intensely due secondary flow and separation vortices, as well as SAR effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A valveless micropump based on an electromagnetic actuation for drug delivery application has been designed. The parametric studies are performed to examine the effects of the divergence angle, neck width, diffuser length, height and diameter of the pump chamber and diaphragm thickness on the flow rate. Furthermore, an optimal design of the micropump is identified, and the proposed micropump has been fabricated. Experiments are performed to validate simulation results in terms of flow rate versus frequency and flow rate versus back pressure. The proposed micropump is polymer based and thus suitable for low-cost and disposable applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency and fault tolerance of biogas plant depends on the proper mixing of the sludge in the digester. The quality of mixing can be numerically evaluated based on the velocity profile in the digester. Most of the earlier studies have been focused on improving these velocity patterns with the help of impellers, which requires extra energy to drive them. The current study explores a passive approach for improving velocity pattern by providing the static flaps of optimal sizes at optimal locations. The design optimization problem is formulated to maximize the surface and domain velocities in the digester by varying the geometries and locations of flaps. Sufficient surface velocity gives an advantage by preventing the process of scum formation whereas the improved domain velocity improves gas production rate by improving contact between biomass flocks and the substrate. This concept is demonstrated through the numerical results obtained using CFD and optimization tools of COMSOL Multiphysics software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design optimization of a rectangular wave passive micromixer is performed using numerical analysis, and Taguchi based grey relational analysis. Optimization study is carried out at a constant Reynolds number of 25. The three design variables viz. the height of the channel, the width of the wavy channel in the y-direction, and the wavy amplitude are considered. The parametric study has been conducted based on the Taguchi’s orthogonal array, L27. The significant performance characteristics viz. mixing index and pressure drop are considered for multi-objective optimization. A grey relational grade is used as a performance index to find out an optimal set of design parameters. The experimental validation for micromixer with optimal design configuration and other three micromixer design configurations has been carried out. The optimized micromixer could be integrated with microfluidic systems including lab on a chip, micro total analysis system, and in the biomedical and biochemical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing interest to convert lignocellulosic biomass into biofuels has highlighted the potential of using willows for this purpose, due to its fast growth in short rotation coppice systems. Here, we use a mapping population of 463 individuals of a cross between Salix viminalis and S. viminalis × S. schwerinii to investigate the genetic background of different wood chemical traits, information of importance for breeding towards different uses of wood. Furthermore, using a subset of the mapping population, the correlation between biogas production and chemical traits was investigated. The phenotyping of wood was carried by Furrier-transformed-Infrared spectrometry (FT-IR) and water content analysis. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) analysis was used to identify regions in the genome of importance for the phenotypic variation of these chemical traits. We found 27 QTLs for various traits. On linkage group (LG) VI-1, QTLs for signals assigned to G-lignin, lignin, and the S/G ratio were collocated and on LG XIV we found a cluster of QTLs representing signals assigned to lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and water. The QTLs explained from 3.4 to 6.9% of the phenotypic variation indicating a quantitative genetic background where many genes influence the traits. For the biogas production, a positive and negative correlation was seen with the signals assigned to acetyl and lignin, respectively. This study represents a first step in the understanding of the genetic background of wood chemical traits for willows, information needed for complementary studies, mapping of important genes, and for breeding of varieties for biofuel production purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, passive planar micromixers based on circular and square mixing chambers spaced at equidistant along the length of micromixer are proposed to operate in the laminar flow regime for high mixing index. Numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of proposed micromixers by solving the Navier-Stokes equation and convection-diffusion equation. A COMSOL Multiphysics 5.0 is used for computational fluid dynamics. Numerical simulation of mixing of fluids in a micromixer with circular and square chambers in a laminar flow regime has been carried out. Four performance parameters namely, mixing index, pressure drop, pumping power, and performance index are used to evaluate different design configurations of micromixers. Analysis of mixing index based on the standard deviation of the mass fraction is carried with different constriction channel width such as 200, 250, and 300 µm for a range of Reynolds number from 0.1 to 75. The both micromixers show over 95% mixing at the exit for the range 15-75 of Reynolds number at constriction width of 200 µm. Especially, about 99% mixing is achieved at Reynolds number less than one i.e. at 0.1. The effect of Reynolds number on the pressure drop is also investigated. Thus, the proposed micromixers can be used in microfluidic systems which require fast mixing at Re less than 1 and greater than 15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This study aims to improve the performance of hydrodynamic journal bearings through partial grooving on the bearing surface.Design/methodology/approach Bearing performance analysis is numerically carried out using the thin film flow physics of COMSOL Multiphysics 5.0 software. Initially, the static performance analysis is carried out for hydrodynamic journal bearing system with smooth surface, and the results of the same are validated with results from the literature. In the later part of the paper, the partial rectangular shape micro-textures are modeled on bearing surface. The effects of partial groove pattern on the bearing performance parameters, namely, fluid film pressure, load carrying capacity, frictional power loss and frictional torque, are studied in detail.Findings The numerical results show that the values of maximum fluid film pressure, load carrying capacity, frictional power loss and frictional torque are considerably improved due to deterministic micro-textures. Bearing surface with partial groove along 90°-180° region results in 81.9 per cent improvement in maximum fluid film pressure and 75.9 per cent improvement in load carrying capacity as compared with smooth surface of journal bearing, with no increase in frictional power loss and frictional torque. Maximum decrease in frictional power loss and frictional torque is observed for partially grooving along 90°-360° region. The simulations are supported by proof-of-concept experimentation.Originality/value This study is useful in the appropriate selection of groove parameters on bearing surface to the bearing performance characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High acetylation of angiosperm wood hinders its conversion to sugars by glycoside hydrolases, subsequent ethanol fermentation and (hence) its use for biofuel production., We studied the REDUCED WALL ACETYLATION ( RWA) gene family of the hardwood model Populus to evaluate its potential for improving saccharification., The family has two clades, AB and CD, containing two genes each. All four genes are expressed in developing wood but only RWA-A and -B are activated by master switches of the secondary cell wall Pt NST1 and Pt MYB21. Histochemical analysis of promoter:: GUS lines in hybrid aspen ( Populus tremula × tremuloides) showed activation of RWA-A and -B promoters in the secondary wall formation zone, while RWA-C and -D promoter activity was diffuse. Ectopic downregulation of either clade reduced wood xylan and xyloglucan acetylation. Suppressing both clades simultaneously using the wood-specific promoter reduced wood acetylation by 25% and decreased acetylation at position 2 of Xyl p in the dimethyl sulfoxide-extracted xylan. This did not affect plant growth but decreased xylose and increased glucose contents in the noncellulosic monosaccharide fraction, and increased glucose and xylose yields of wood enzymatic hydrolysis without pretreatment., Both RWA clades regulate wood xylan acetylation in aspen and are promising targets to improve wood saccharification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lignocellulose from fast growing hardwood species is a preferred source of polysaccharides for advanced biofuels and "green" chemicals. However, the extensive acetylation of hardwood xylan hinders lignocellulose saccharification by obstructing enzymatic xylan hydrolysis and causing inhibitory acetic acid concentrations during microbial sugar fermentation. To optimize lignocellulose for cost-effective saccharification and biofuel production, an acetyl xylan esterase AnAXE1 from Aspergillus niger was introduced into aspen and targeted to cell walls. Results: AnAXE1-expressing plants exhibited reduced xylan acetylation and grew normally. Without pretreatment, their lignocellulose yielded over 25% more glucose per unit mass of wood (dry weight) than wild-type plants. Glucose yields were less improved (+7%) after acid pretreatment, which hydrolyses xylan. The results indicate that AnAXE1 expression also reduced the molecular weight of xylan, and xylan-lignin complexes and/or lignin co-extracted with xylan, increased cellulose crystallinity, altered the lignin composition, reducing its syringyl to guaiacyl ratio, and increased lignin solubility in dioxane and hot water. Lignin-associated carbohydrates became enriched in xylose residues, indicating a higher content of xylo-oligosaccharides. Conclusions: This work revealed several changes in plant cell walls caused by deacetylation of xylan. We propose that deacetylated xylan is partially hydrolyzed in the cell walls, liberating xylo-oligosaccharides and their associated lignin oligomers from the cell wall network. Deacetylating xylan thus not only increases its susceptibility to hydrolytic enzymes during saccharification but also changes the cell wall architecture, increasing the extractability of lignin and xylan and facilitating saccharification.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maxillary osteomyelitis is rare compared to mandiblar osteomyelitis because extensive blood supply & strut like bone of the maxilla make it less prone to chronic infection. A 65 year old female presented to us with pain and oro antral communication from left maxilla following dental extraction with offensive odour. Examination revealed a necrotic maxilla on the left side with oro antral communication. A cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was suggestive of osteomyelitis of left Maxilla. Patient underwent surgical excision of the lesion. Satisfactory results were obtained with appropriate antibiotics. Adult Osteomyelitis remains one of the most difficult-to-treat infectious diseases, with considerable morbidity and costs to the health care system. Osteomyelitis is now such a rare entity that when presented, the possibility of underlying pathology should be considered and appropriately investigated for. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to examine the clinical and pathological features of squamous cell carcinoma of the Tongue and Buccal Mucosa and understand their differences. This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 735 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and 665 cases of carcinoma of the buccal mucosa treated by surgery at our hospital. Statistical analysis was done to examine clinical and pathological differences between carcinoma of the tongue and the buccal mucosa with regards to age, gender, clinical T stage/N stage, pathological T stage/N stage, overall stage, grade, thickness, perinodal extension (PNE), lymphovascular emboli (LVE) and perineural invasion (PNI). Statistically significant differences were found for factors like age ( p < 0.001), gender ( p < 0.001), clinical T staging ( p < 0.001) and pathological stage ( p < 0.001), grade of tumor ( p < 0.001) and perineural invasion ( p < 0.001) between carcinoma of the tongue and the buccal mucosa. Forty-eight percent patients in either subsite had pathologically proven node negative necks (pN0, p = 0.88). Multivariate analysis for occult nodal metastases revealed that predictive factors were different for the two subsites. There are significant differences between cancers of the tongue and buccal mucosa for various clinical and pathological factors. This may be a reflection of the underlying differences in their causation and pathophysiology. Squamous cell carcinoma in these two subsites should therefore be regarded as clinico-pathologically distinct entities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to determine etoricoxib in human plasma is needed for bioequivalence and pharmacokinetic studies of etoricoxib preparations. The present study describes a simple, rapid, reproducible, and reliable LC-MS/MS method to determine etoricoxib concentrations in human plasma. After one-step liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) using methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), etoricoxib and etoricoxib D3 (internal standard, IS) were eluted on a Thermo Hypurity, C18 column with an binary mobile phase, consisting of 2mM ammonium acetate buffer: methanol (20:80, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.2mL/min. The achieved lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) was 19.670 ng/mL and the standard calibration curve for etoricoxib was linear (correlation coefficients were >0.98) over the studied concentration range (19.670-6553.297 ng/mL). The chromatographic run time for each plasma sample was 3.50 min. The developed method was successfully applied to a bioequivalence study of etoricoxib in healthy male volunteers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]