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Background: Intracanal medicament (ICM) eliminates remaining bacteria and their toxins that were not removed by chemomechanical preparation during endodontic treatment. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the removal of ozonated oil-based, silicone oil-based, and distilled water-based ICM with two calcium chelators, i.e., 0.2% chitosan and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Materials and Methods: A total of 54 mandibular permanent premolars were included and randomly allocated into 3 groups after cleaning and shaping along with thorough irrigation. Group 1 - ozonized calcium hydroxide group; Group 2 - Metapex group; Group 3 - Ca(OH)2 with distilled water group. Using an irrigant for removal, the teeth in each group were distributed at random to two subgroups – (A) 0.2% chitosan solution; (B) 17% EDTA solution. All the samples were ultrasonically agitated and the volume remaining in each tooth after retrieval was estimated using additional cone-beam computed tomography scans. The result was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance, following post hoc Tukey test. Results: The mean percentage of ozonized Ca(OH)2, aqueous calcium hydroxide, and Metapex removed by 0.2% chitosan had greater values in comparison to 17% EDTA. When eliminating aqueous-based calcium hydroxide, both chelators showed similar effectiveness (P > 0.05). In contrast, 0.2% chitosan outperformed 17% EDTA in retrieving oil-based Ca(OH)2 (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The aqueous-based form of Ca(OH)2 was removed more easily compared to the oil-based form. A combination of 0.2% chitosan and ultrasonics proved to be more effective than 17% EDTA in eliminating oil-based calcium hydroxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lupus enteritis refers to the gastrointestinal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It presents with diverse symptoms that frequently overlap with those of other acute abdominal conditions, posing diagnostic challenges. We describe an adolescent female, with lupus pancreatitis and nephritis, who later developed severe lupus enteritis during the course of her illness. She was treated with pulse methylprednisolone and intravenous cyclophosphamide and gradually improved over 3 weeks. Our case highlights the need to consider lupus enteritis in patients with severe pain abdomen and intractable vomiting. Presence of lupus pancreatitis and nephritis are risk factors for development of enteritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lemierre's syndrome, a forgotten clinical entity, is characterised by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein due to oropharyngeal infection. In the past, it was mainly associated with Fusobacterium necrophorum infections. We present a unique case report of Lemierre's syndrome due to Klebsiella pneumoniae. Patient reported with progressive swelling involving right side of the neck that eventually increased in size. After confirming the diagnosis through CECT, patient was managed through combined medical and surgical therapy in the form of incision and drainage, targeted antibiotic therapy, glycaemic control and anticoagulation therapy. This case report highlights the association of poor glycaemic control in the pathogenesis and the isolation of Klebsiella pneumoniae as the rare organism of Lemierre's syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric regional anesthesia (RA) has emerged as a rapidly advancing dimension within pediatric anesthesia, demanding a continual commitment to knowledge acquisition. This review underscores the contemporary significance of this specialty, focusing on its application in neonates and infants. The primary objective of RA is to address perioperative pain effectively while preserving the delicate physiological balance, thereby enhancing overall patient care. This review explores the advantages offered by RA in this age group. Furthermore, conventional, and recently introduced techniques of RA are examined by exploring the advantages and disadvantages of these methods. The aim is to provide clinicians with a nuanced understanding of their applicability in different clinical scenarios. Additionally, the review elucidates the unique considerations associated with pediatric RA, acknowledging pediatric patients’ distinctive anatomical and physiological characteristics. The exceptional cases of congenital anomalies and their implications for the choice of RA are considered. An aspect of the review is its focus on dosages of local anesthetics and the volumes required for various blocks in neonates and infants. The dosages for continuous infusion and practical issues with infusions are considered. Complications associated with RA are described, along with their prevention and treatment. The review offers pragmatic insights into the selection criteria for various regional blocks, aiding anesthesiologists in making informed decisions tailored to individual patient needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of hypervirulent strains of Acinetobacter baumannii poses a significant threat in intensive care units (ICU). This study aimed to molecularly characterize hypervirulent A. baumannii strains isolated from ICU patients with respiratory infections. Six strains were isolated from ICU patients over one month. Isolates were identified by phenotypic characterization biochemical properties and 16s RNA sequencing. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted followed by resistance genes detection by PCR. MLST, and PFGE were employed to analyse clonal relationships among strains. Plasmid replicon typing and plasmid transmission frequencies were determined. The isolated strains exhibited diverse clinical manifestations, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed multidrug‐resistance phenotype. Molecular analysis revealed a complex genetic landscape of antibiotic resistance genes, including ESBLs and carbapenemases, as well as virulence genes such as ompA, csuE, and exoS. The multiple sequence types indicating genetic diversity among the strains as ST1512, ST622, and ST149 (each type two isolates). Plasmid characterization revealed the presence of diverse replicon types associated with multidrug resistance. This study provides comprehensive insights into the phenotypic, molecular, and epidemiological characteristics of hypervirulent A. baumannii outbark in ICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pearl millet, considered as nutri-cereal, has better nutritional composition and quality, as compared to other cereals. Though, it is less popular due to low shelf-life of the flour. Here, we characterize the rancid behavior of three diverse genotypes of pearl millet—WGI-100 (White), Purple, and fortified Dhanshakti (complete grains and decorticated) using different quality determinants linked with shelf-life. Starch, amylose, resistant and non-resistant starch content was observed maximum in Dhanshakti, whereas amylopectin was observed maximum in cv. purple. The activities of carbohydrate degrading enzyme (α-/β-Amylases) were observed maximum on 6th days after milling (DAM) in cv. Dhanshakti. Phytic acid and micronutrients (Fe and Zn) were observed more stabilized in flour during storage. We observed gradual decrease in the storage proteins and total lipid with increase in DAM due to oxidation. Evaluation of physicochemical treatments [salt (1%), lime (1%, grains soaked for overnight), hydrothermal-infrared (HT-IR, grains steamed for 5 min followed by quick drying using IR bulbs with wavelength of 0.7–2.0 µm), kilning (live steam, quick heating), near infra-red (NIR, short wave for 5 min) and air tight aluminum pouches (50 µm thickness)] showed HT-IR to be most effective treatment in arresting the lipid hydrolysis by denaturating/aggregating the rancidity causing enzymes (lipase and lipoxygenase). We observed Dhanshakti to be better in flour quality and nutrient density, as compared to other cvs. HT-IR was observed to be most cost-effective and promising technology in enhancing the shelf-life of pearl millet flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the documentary film "The Elephant Whisperers," which explores the relationship between humans and elephants in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in India. The film highlights the importance of coexistence and conservation efforts, showcasing the bond between caretakers Bomman and Bellie and the orphaned elephants they care for. It also emphasizes the cultural significance of elephants in Indian society. The article emphasizes the role of media in raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting positive change. The film has received international acclaim and recognition for its portrayal of the challenges faced by animals and the importance of conservation. [Extracted from the article]

The global transition towards sustainable living has led to a growing demand for innovative food products that enhance environmental sustainability. Traditional meat production is known for its high energy consumption and significant carbon emissions, necessitating alternative approaches. Plant-based meat (PBM) offers a promising solution to reduce the ecological footprint of animal agriculture. This paper examines various challenges in PBM development, including nutritional equivalence, industrial scalability, organoleptic properties, and digestibility. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure consumer acceptance, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship. Advanced technologies like nanotechnology, fermentation, and enzymatic hydrolysis, along with automation and repurposing cattle farms, offer solutions to enhance PBM's quality and production efficiency. By integrating these innovations, PBM has the potential to revolutionize the food industry, offering sustainable and nutritious alternatives that meet global dietary needs while significantly reducing environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, a one-step xanthation process was used to synthesize biosorbents from persimmon leaves (Diospyros kaki). The resulting biosorbents, referred to as MPM, exhibited high sorption capacities for Hexavalent chromium and Cd(II) at different pH values. Specifically, at pH 3, the Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity for Cr(VI)-MPM was determined to be 710 mg/g, while at pH 7, it was 622 mg/g for Cd(II)-MPM systems. The adsorption kinetics of both the metal ions followed the pseudo-2nd-order model, with R2 values close to 1 (0.99). Through FT-IR and XPS studies, it was determined that ion exchange, surface complexation, and chelation were the primary mechanisms responsible for removing the analytes from water using MPM as sorbent. The presence of the -CS2-Na group in MPM played a crucial role in these removal mechanisms. Additionally, MPM displayed notable antibacterial efficacy against S. aureus and E. coli. Considering its rapid kinetics, wide pH range applicability, impressive sorption capacity, recyclability, and effective antibacterial properties, MPM proves to be a highly suitable adsorbent for removing Hexavalent chromium and Cd(II) from industrial wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopolymers are highly desirable alternatives to petrochemical-based plastics owing to their biodegradable nature. The production of bioplastics, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), has been widely reported using various bacterial cultures with substrates ranging from pure to biowaste-derived sugars. However, large-scale production and economic feasibility are major limiting factors. Now, using algal biomass for PHA production offers a potential solution to these challenges with a significant environmental benefit. Algae, with their unique ability to utilize carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas (GHG) and wastewater as feed for growth, can produce value-added products in the process and, thereby, play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability. The sugar recovery efficiency from algal biomass is highly variable depending on pretreatment procedures due to inherent compositional variability among their cell walls. Additionally, the yields, composition, and properties of synthesized PHA vary significantly among various microbial PHA producers from algal-derived sugars. Therefore, the microalgal biomass pretreatments and synthesis of PHA copolymers still require considerable investigation to develop an efficient commercial-scale process. This review provides an overview of the microbial potential for PHA production from algal biomass and discusses strategies to enhance PHA production and its properties, focusing on managing GHGs and promoting a sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies in pregnant women are associated with increased risk for adverse maternal and infant health outcomes, including neural tube defects (NTDs). Methods: A population‐based cross‐sectional survey was conducted in two rural areas in Ambala District, Haryana, India in 2017 to assess baseline folate and vitamin B12 status among women of reproductive age (WRA) and predict the prevalence of NTDs. We calculated the prevalence of folate and vitamin B12 deficiency and insufficiency by demographic characteristics among 775 non‐pregnant, non‐lactating WRA (18–49 years). Using red blood cell (RBC) folate distributions and an established Bayesian model, we predicted NTD prevalence. All analyses were conducted using SAS‐callable SUDAAN Version 11.0.4 to account for complex survey design. Results: Among WRA, 10.1% (95% CI: 7.9, 12.7) and 9.3% (95% CI: 7.4, 11.6) had serum (<7 nmol/L) and RBC folate (<305 nmol/L) deficiency, respectively. The prevalence of RBC folate insufficiency (<748 nmol/L) was 78.3% (95% CI: 75.0, 81.3) and the predicted NTD prevalence was 21.0 (95% uncertainly interval: 16.9, 25.9) per 10,000 live births. Prevalences of vitamin B12 deficiency (<200 pg/mL) and marginal deficiency (≥200 pg/mL and ≤300 pg/mL) were 57.7% (95% CI: 53.9, 61.4) and 23.5% (95% CI: 20.4, 26.9), respectively. Conclusions: The magnitude of folate insufficiency and vitamin B12 deficiency in this Northern Indian population is a substantial public health concern. The findings from the survey help establish the baseline against which results from future post‐fortification surveys can be compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is the sixth leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. Early diagnosis and periodic monitoring are mandatory to prevent complications. The custom of noninvasive exfoliative cytology diagnostic technique is the need of the hour in diabetes, where the invasive methods lose viability. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to analyze the cytomorphometric changes in the exfoliated cells of the oral mucosa, as an adjunct to the diagnosis of type II diabetes. A thorough search was made by using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases. Original research articles, that evaluated cytomorphometric parameters (nuclear area, cytoplasmic area, cytoplasmic nuclear ratio) in type II diabetes patients were included in this review. Risk of bias was analysed for each study using Joanna Briggs Institute and Review Manager was used for meta-analysis. All nine subgroups included for qualitative and quantitative data synthesis revealed that there was a significant increase in nuclear area and a decrease in cytoplasmic nuclear ratio in diabetic patients as compared to non-diabetics. Random-effects model also confirmed cytologically altered (nuclear area and cytoplasmic nuclear ratio) parameters to have a significantly increased risk of association with diabetes. Furthermore, these morphometry parameters were also associated with glycemic control and there was no gender disparity among them. Mounting evidence authenticate that cytomorphometric analysis of oral mucosal cells using exfoliative cytology might be aid as an adjunct non-invasive diagnostic tool for type II diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Midbrain atrophy is a characteristic feature of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), observed in PSP‐Richardson's syndrome (PSP‐RS) and to a lesser extent PSP‐parkinsonism (PSP‐P). Objective: Our aim was to critically evaluate the utility of manual magnetic resonance imaging measurements of the midbrain tectal plate as a diagnostic biomarker in PSP. Methods: Length of the tectal plate and width of the superior and inferior colliculi were measured in 40 PSP (20 PSP‐RS and 20 PSP‐P) patients and compared with 20 Parkinson's disease and 20 healthy control subjects. Results: Tectal plate length was reduced in both PSP groups compared with Parkinson's disease and control subjects and was most abnormal in PSP‐RS followed by PSP‐P. Reduced tectal plate length was associated with worse PSP Rating Scale scores. Conclusions: Simple manual measurements of tectal plate length show utility as a diagnostic biomarker in PSP, particularly for PSP‐RS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diversity information mining about a crop for different attributes is an essential step for effective breeding programs. The present investigation evaluates the quantum of genetic variability and determines the relationship among the important agro-economic traits based on two years of phenotypic data of 210 accessions of linseed. The traits, capsule weight per plant, capsule per plant, husk weight per plant, and seed weight per plant exhibited comparatively higher genetic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV). In contrast, oil content and seed per capsule exhibited a lower value. The high magnitude of broad sense heritability was observed for all traits except seeds per capsule and husk weight per plant. The trait, capsules per plant, plant height, and days to 50% flowering showed high genetic advance coupled with high heritability. Hierarchical cluster analysis grouped 210 accessions into six distinct clusters. Out of 210, 144 (68.57%) accessions were grouped into three clusters (I, II, and III), in which cluster-III was the largest, containing 64 accessions followed by cluster II and cluster-I. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters-I and V (127.85), while the lowest was between clusters-II and IV (27.09). The positive correlation of capsule weight per plant with the seed weight per plant and a negative correlation with the days to 50% flowering indicates that high yielding linseed varieties with early flowering/maturity could be developed through direct and indirect selection. Further, seed yield and oil content could be enhanced together as indicated by ghe positive association among these two important traits. In this study, high yielding accessions with moderate to high oil content such as GP36, GP31, GP14, GP54, GP26, GP24, GP34, GP21, GP37 and GP27 and early flowering (less than 70 days) accessions such as GP2, GP26, GP27, CG33, CG44, CG42, CG132, and CG31 identified as potential genetic materials that could be exploited for developing early maturing varieties with high yield. In addition, information's on various genetic parameters will help breeders to devise suitable breeding methodology for linseed genetic improvement for targeted traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2021, Nigeria had an estimated 1.9 million people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) and 1.7 million (90%) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Study Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: This meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. We searched PubMed, Embase, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, and Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they reported on ART retention in care among PLHIV in Nigeria. The random-effects meta-analyses were used to combine the studies that had complete retention data. The I2 statistic was used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies. A sensitivity analysis was then done by conducting a leave-one-out analysis. Afterward, data were analyzed using STATA version 18. Results: The search yielded 966 unique articles, of which 52 studies met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis, and four experimental studies were split into their component arms. The total number of study participants was 563,410, and the pooled retention rate was 72% (95% CI: 67%, 76%; I2 = 99.9%; n = 57). Sub-analysis showed that the Southeast region of Nigeria had the highest retention of 86% (95% CI: 78%, 92%), and the South-South had the lowest retention (58%; 95% CI: 38%, 79%). Conclusion: In Nigeria, the pooled ART retention rate is less than optimal to achieve the UNAIDS goal of 95%, thus developing new models for ART retention is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implant dentistry has become increasingly prevalent, with complications such as peri-implantitis posing challenges. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) has been implicated in the inflammatory response around dental implants, akin to its role in periodontal diseases. Evaluating TNF-α levels in peri-implant tissues compared to healthy tooth tissues could provide insights into the inflammatory environment and aid in clinical management. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 50 participants with dental implants and healthy adjacent teeth. Peri-implant mucosal samples and gingival tissue around healthy teeth were collected. TNF-α levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Statistical analysis was performed to compare TNF-α concentrations between peri-implant tissues and healthy tooth tissues. Results: The mean TNF-α level in peri-implant tissues was found to be 120 pg/mL (standard deviation ± 25 pg/mL), whereas in healthy tooth tissues, it was 60 pg/mL (standard deviation ± 15 pg/mL). Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in TNF-α levels between peri-implant tissues and healthy tooth tissues. Conclusion: Elevated levels of TNF-α in peri-implant tissues suggest a heightened inflammatory response compared to healthy tooth tissues. This underscores the potential role of TNF-α in peri-implantitis pathogenesis and emphasizes the importance of monitoring inflammatory biomarkers for early detection and targeted intervention in implant dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tunnel field effect transistors (TFETs) are known for lower power requirements than MOSFETs due to their utilization of the band-to-band tunneling mechanism, along with low subthreshold swing (SS). The traditional TFET suffers from low drain current; however, drain current can be improved by modifying the TFET device structure. In this work, a 2-D heterojunction (Ge/Si) vertical-tunnel field effect transistor (HV-TFET) with an optimal design is proposed in which the source region is made of germanium (Ge) due to its low bandgap, while silicon (Si) is used for the regions of drain and channel to mitigate leakage current because of its wider bandgap. The goal of this work is to achieve improved switching by enhancing the ON-state current (ION) and reducing the OFF-state current (IOFF). The currents obtained have values of 1.19 × 10−3 A/µm and ~ 10−15 A/µm, respectively, and therefore the ION/IOFF ratio is ~ 1011 for the device proposed in this paper. Three different dielectric gate oxide materials are used for studying the effect of dielectric materials on the device parameters. Hafnium oxide (HfO2) is found to offer the best results when used for gate oxide, and hence is used in the proposed device structure. Also, this work examines a number of electrical parameters of the device structure due to changes in physical device parameters. The results are produced using the Sentaurus TCAD tool to confirm the suitability of the proposed device for use in circuit applications with low-power strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A library of Virtual Reality (VR) tasks has been developed for targeted post-stroke rehabilitation of distal upper extremities. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the clinical potential of the targeted VR-based therapeutic intervention in a small cohort of patients specifically with chronic stroke. Furthermore, our aim was to explore the possible neuronal reorganizations in corticospinal pathways in response to the distal upper limb targeted VR-intervention. Five patients with chronic stroke were enrolled in this study and were given VR-intervention of 20 sessions of 45 min each. Clinical Scales, cortical-excitability measures (using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation): Resting Motor Threshold (RMT), and Motor Evoked Potential (MEP) amplitude, task-specific performance metrics i.e., Time taken to complete the task (TCT), smoothness of trajectory, relative % error were evaluated pre- and post-intervention to evaluate the intervention-induced improvements. Pre-to post-intervention improvements were observed in Fugl-Meyer Assessment (both total and wrist/hand component), Modified Barthel Index, Stroke Impact Scale, Motor Assessment Scale, active range of motion at wrist, and task-specific outcome metrics. Pre-to post-intervention ipsilesional RMT reduced (mean ∼9%) and MEP amplitude increased (mean ∼29µV), indicating increased cortical excitability at post-intervention. VR-training exhibited improved motor outcomes and cortical-excitability in patients with stroke. Neurophysiological changes observed in terms of improved cortical-excitability might be a consequence of plastic reorganization induced by VR-intervention. Post-stroke rehabilitation of distal upper extremities is crucial and needs targeted intervention to rehabilitate in the chronic phase of recovery. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a supplemental approach in post-stroke rehabilitation. However, its customization as per clinical need is still under research. This pilot study provides preliminary evidence of the clinical utility of the developed VR tasks targeted for distal upper extremities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, titled "Impact of Maternal Gestational Methyl Donor Deficiency on Reproductive Development and Fertility of Mice Offspring," explores the effects of a deficiency in methyl donors (vitamin B12, folic acid, and methionine) during pregnancy on the reproductive development and fertility of mice offspring. The study found that the offspring of mice fed a methyl-donor deficient diet exhibited teratological defects and impaired testicular histology. Additionally, these offspring showed reduced copulation index, sperm count, and motility, and were found to be sub-fertile. The study suggests that gestational methyl donor deficiency can have negative effects on gonadal development and fertility. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare entity in children. There is a paucity of studies on juvenile‐onset MCTD (jMCTD) worldwide especially from Southeast Asia. Objectives: To describe clinical and laboratory features of jMCTD diagnosed at pediatric rheumatology centers across India. Methods: A predesigned detailed case proforma in an excel format was prepared and was sent to all the Pediatric Rheumatology centers in India. Eleven centers provided the clinical and laboratory data of their jMCTD patients, which was then compiled and analyzed in detail. Results: Thirty‐one jMCTD patients from 11 centers were included in the study. Our cohort had 27 females and four male patients over 12 months (August 2021 to July 2022). The median age at presentation was 12 years (range 5–18 years) and the median duration of symptoms was 24 months at diagnosis (range 2–96 months). The common features included arthritis (90%), malar rash (70.9%), and Raynaud's phenomenon (70.9%). At a mean follow‐up of 43 months (range 1–168 months), 45% of them were in remission. There were two deaths reported, due to macrophage activation syndrome and sepsis respectively. Conclusion: We present the largest multicenter experience on jMCTD from the Indian subcontinent. The study's findings serve as a crucial stepping stone toward unraveling the complexities of jMCTD and improving patient care and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overlap between language and visual variants of atypical Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been reported. However, the extent, frequency of overlap, and its neuroanatomical underpinnings remain unclear. Eighty-two biomarker-confirmed AD patients who presented with either predominant language (n = 34) or visuospatial/perceptual (n = 48) deficits underwent detailed clinical examinations, MRI, and [18F]flortaucipir-PET. Subgroups were defined based on language/visual testing and patterns of volume loss and tau uptake were assessed. 28% of the language group had visual dysfunction (marked in 8%), and 47% of the visual group had language impairment (marked in 26%). Progressive involvement of the parieto-occipital and frontal lobes was noted with greater visual impairment in the language group, and greater left parieto-temporal and frontal involvement with worsening language impairment in the visual group. Only 25% of our cohort showed a pure language or visual presentation, highlighting the high frequency of syndromic overlap in atypical AD and the diagnostic challenge of categorical phenotyping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this paper, we developed a series of piperic acid (PA) analogs with the aim of overcoming the limitations associated with the natural products for the management of Alzheimer's disease (AD). A comprehensive SAR study was performed to enhance cholinesterase inhibition of PA. The acetylcholinesterase inhibition and its kinetic data suggested 6j as the lead molecule (AChE IC50 = 2.13 ± 0.015 µM, BChE = 28.19 ± 0.20%), in comparison to PA (AChE = 7.14 ± 0.98%) which was further selected for various biological studies in AD models. 6j, exhibited interaction with the peripheral anionic site of AChE, BBB permeability (Pe = 7.98), and antioxidant property (% radical scavenging activity = 35.41 ± 1.09, 2.43 ± 1.65, for 6j and PA at 20 M μ , respectively). The result from the metal chelation study suggests that 6j did not effectively chelate iron. The molecular modeling studies suggested that 6j could effectively interact with Ser293, Phe295, Arg296, and Tyr34 of AChE. In the cell-based cytotoxicity studies, 6j exhibited cytocompatibility at the different tested concentrations. The acute toxicity data on mice suggested that compound 6j had no renal and hepatotoxicity at 500 mg/kg. Moreover, 6j could effectively reverse scopolamine-induced amnesia by improving spatial and cognitive memory in mice. The above results strongly suggest that compound 6j may act as a novel multi-targeted lead for AD therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR)-based assays are extensively being utilized to detect coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, due to a lack of RT-qPCR testing capability, these tests cannot be carried out in community clinics. The intention of our study was to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity of Rapid Antigen Detection (RAT) tests versus those of RT-qPCR using nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal specimens. Respiratory swab specimens were collected from the COVID-19 patients admitted at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital, Raipur, CG, India, during March to April 2022. RAT and RT-qPCR were performed using standard methods as per guidebook instructions, and subjects were chosen using a convenience sample technique. 100 swabs from patients, who had earlier verified positive and 100 from who had earlier verified negative for SARS-CoV-2 via RT-qPCR, were taken for study. Study was approved by the institutional ethical committee before data collection and initiation of the study. We evaluated for the sensitivity and specificity of the STANDARD Q COVID-19 Ag test kit (SD Biosensor). On testing, an over-all sensitivity and specificity of the kit was recorded as 74% and 100%, respectively in comparison to the RT-qPCR kit. Further, the assay's sensitivity was shown to be 100%, 94.87%, 77.27%, and 55.56%, respectively, for samples with cycle thresholds (Ct) of 15-25, 25-30, 30- 35, and >35. We draw the conclusion that the RT-qPCR assay has superior sensitivity and specificity to the antigen assay. However, in all situations where RT-qPCR testing is difficult, the antigen assay could serve as a rapid and simple option for separating SARS-CoV-2 contagious from non-contagious patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C virus infection is one of the main causes of liver disease that can lead to liver cirrhosis and finally to the chronic development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). With 8 different HCV genotypes circulating, it becomes necessary to characterize the pathogenesis caused by each one of the HCV genotypes infecting population of a particular setting. Present study aims to identify the circulating Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes in the different areas of State of Uttar Pradesh, India and understand their clinical etiology and related co-morbidities. The patients reporting to Sharda Hospital, Uttar Pradesh, India who were diagnosed positive for HCV were included in the study. The informed consent was obtained and then blood was drawn. In-house primers, for all the 8 genotypes were prepared and RT-PCR was performed. The amplified product was subjected to Agarose gel electrophoresis to identify the genotypes present in individual samples. Total 30 serum samples were taken. Of these, 21 (70%) showed presence of multiple genotypes, while 7 (23.33%) showed positivity for single genotype and two did not show any bands. Presence of multiple genotypes in individual patient has been reported for the first time. The pathological consequences of multiple genotypes within one host need to be studied further in terms of increased risk of developing a chronic liver disease. Further studies are being undertaken to study association of specific HCV genotype and multiple genotypes, Core, NS3 and NS5 viral proteins with the disease progression to develop predictors of liver cirrhosis and HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The most crucial factor in improving animal reproduction efficiency is early pregnancy diagnosis. Early diagnosis not only reduces the time interval between two calvings but also aids farmers in identifying open animals, thereby preventing significant milk production losses. Therefore, the objective of this study was to discover circulatory miRNAs that would be useful for early pregnancy diagnosis in buffalo. Material and methods: Blood samples were taken on 0, 6th, 12th, and 18th day after artificial insemination from pregnant animals (n = 30) and non-pregnant animals (n = 20). During these stages of pregnancy, total RNA was extracted, and a small RNA library was subsequently generated and sequenced on the Illumina platform. Subsequently, Real-time PCR was used to validate the findings. Results and discussion: There were 4,022 miRNAs found during the pregnancy, with 15 of those lacking sequences and 4,007 having sequences already in the database. From the beginning of pregnancy until the 18th day, 25 of these miRNAs showed a substantial shift in expression levels in the maternal blood, with a change more than two logs. Furthermore, based on qPCR results, 19 miRNAs were found to be more abundant in pregnant animals than in non-pregnant animals. We used target prediction analysis to learn how maternally expressed miRNAs relate to fetal-maternal communication. In conclusion, miRNA based biomarkers that could be associated with the diagnosis of pregnancy were identified including miR-181a and miR-486 highly upregulated on the 18th day of pregnancy. This study also provides a comprehensive profile of the entire miRNA population in maternal buffalo blood during the early stages of pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A blend of organic municipal solid waste, slaughterhouse waste, fecal sludge, and landfill leachate was selected in different mixing ratios to formulate the best substrate mixture for biomethanation. Individual substrates were characterized, and the mixing ratio was optimized with the help of a response surface methodology tool to a value of 1:1:1:1 (with a C/N ratio of 28±0.769 and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration of 2500±10.53 mg/L) to improve the overall biomethanation. The optimized blend (C/N ratio: 28.6, VFA: 2538 mg/L) was characterized for physicochemical, biological, and microbial properties and subjected to anaerobic digestion in lab-scale reactors of 1000 mL capacity with and without the addition of inoculum. The biogas yield of individual substrates and blends was ascertained separately. The observed cumulative biogas yield over 21 days from the non-inoculated substrates varied between 142±1.95 mL (24.6±0.3 ml/gVS) and 1974.5±21.72 mL (270.4±3.1 ml/gVS). In comparison, the addition of external inoculation at a 5% rate (w/w) of the substrate uplifted the minimum and maximum cumulative gas yield values to 203±9.9 mL (35.0±1.6 mL/gVS) and 3394±13.4 mL (315.3±1.2 mL/gVS), respectively. The inoculum procured from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was screened in advance, considering factors such as maximizing VFA production and consumption rate, biogas yield, and digestate quality. A similar outcome regarding biogas yield and digestate quality was observed for the equivalent blend. The cumulative gas yield increased from 2673±14.5 mL (373.7±2.2 mL/gVS) to 4284±111.02 mL (391.47±20.02 mL/gVS) over 21 days post-application of a similar dosage of DRDO inoculum. The 16S rRNA genomic analysis revealed that the predominant bacterial population belonged to the phylum Firmicutes, with the majority falling within the orders Clostridiales and Lactobacillales. Ultimately, the study advocates the potential of the blend mentioned above for biomethanation and concomitant enrichment of both biogas yield and digestate quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive and proper management of fecal sludge (FS) is an ongoing concern in many nations. Decentralized fecal sludge treatment plants (FSTPs) are effective in this regard; however, many have experienced strong public opposition based partly on suspicion of malodor. Fecal sludge and freshly generated fecal matter (FM) samples from various FSTPs were collected, characterized, and investigated for biomethane potential. The homogenized samples were anaerobically digested for 28 days. Digestion successfully reduced total suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, and threshold odor number values of 97,350–97,420 mg/l, 43,230–43,260 mg/l, and 130–150 for FM, to 49,500–49,650 mg/l, 23,760–23,850 mg/l, and 3338, respectively, for FS samples. The comprehensive gas yield from Bhongir, Boduppal, and Shadnagar FS samples was 40, 55, and 31 ml, respectively. In contrast, cumulative gas generation from the FM was 26,361 ml. Digestion of FS samples also reduced concentrations of volatile solids and coliforms by 66–72% and 99%, respectively. Characterization of gas samples revealed methane and carbon dioxide concentrations as 56% and 22% for FM, and 0.4% and 61% for FS samples, respectively. Hydrogen sulfide and ammonia gas were absent in FS samples, dispelling common societal misconceptions of FSTPs being associated with malodor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Envenomation from snakebites (SBs) is a significant public health hazard globally. The venomous SB is associated with moderate-to-severe pain. Weak opioids such as tramadol or acetaminophen are commonly used for pain management but often provide inadequate analgesia. We hereby report our experience of using ultrasound-guided selective superficial peroneal, sural, and saphenous nerve blocks for pain management following SBs in nine patients. The selective peripheral nerve blocks are achieved with a small amount of local anesthesia and without loss of motor functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forests' capability to sequester and store a large amount of carbon makes it imperative to assess the carbon stocked in them. The present study aimed to map the tree aboveground carbon stock of sal (Shorea robusta) forests of Doon valley, India using object-based image analysis (OBIA) of WorldView-2, a very high resolution satellite imagery (VHRS). The study evaluated different pan-sharpening techniques for improving the spatial resolution of WorldView-2 multispectral imagery and found that the high pass filter resolution merge technique was better compared to others. OBIA was used for image segmentation and classification. It enabled the delineation of tree crowns and canopy projection area (CPA) calculation. The overall accuracy of image segmentation and classification were found to be 72.12% and 84.82% respectively. The study unveiled that there exists a strong relationship between diameter at breast height and the CPA of trees as well as CPA and tree carbon. The average forest carbon density in the study area was found to be 108 Mg ha−1. The study highlighted that OBIA of VHRS imagery coupled with field inventory can be efficiently used to quantify and map the tree carbon stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEIs) represent a promising class of therapeutics for the management of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and others. Mechanistically, PDEIs modulate cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways, influencing neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal survival. Neurodegenerative disorders are a group of progressive and debilitating diseases that affect the nervous system. These disorders are characterized by the degeneration of neurons, leading to the loss of functional abilities and cognitive decline. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring the potential of phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEIs) as a potential therapeutic option for managing neurodegenerative diseases. Recent developments include the identification of novel inhibitors, advances in pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and preclinical/clinical studies evaluating efficacy. However, challenges remain, including limited selectivity, CNS penetration, safety concerns and the need for disease-modifying effects. Strategies to overcome these limitations, such as isoform-specific targeting, optimized formulations, and combination therapies, are discussed. Future research directions include the elucidation of disease biomarkers, development of translational research models, establishment of target engagement assays and exploration of potential synergistic approaches. By addressing these challenges and embracing collaborative approaches, PDEIs hold promise as disease-modifying therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders, offering hope for improved patient outcomes and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Women comprise almost 30% of practising clinical radiologists in Australia. Despite three‐quarters of clinical radiologists working in private practice, there is limited research regarding the experience of female radiologists in private practice and issues surrounding work–life balance. The primary aim of this study was to identify gender issues within private radiology and investigate work–life balance, focusing on issues relevant for female practitioners. Methods: Clinical radiologists working in private practice at five major Australian private radiology service providers were sent an email on behalf of the researchers, containing study information and a link to an online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square analysis and Fisher's exact test were used. Binary logistic regression was used to determine odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Responses to short‐answer questions were analysed manually and grouped into themes. Results: There were consistent gender differences in perceptions of gender and its implication upon working and career progression in radiology private practice. There was near unanimous agreement that private radiologists should be able to work flexible/reduced working hours for a proportionate decrease in pay. Two themes with distinct gender differences related to pay equity and transparency. Key themes relating to work–life balance for private radiologists included workload, setting boundaries and flexibility of work hours in private radiology. Conclusion: This preliminary survey highlights areas related to work–life balance and gender issues relevant for female practitioners in private practice radiology in Australia that can be targeted for further investigation and improvement, namely pay equity and transparency, and part‐time leadership opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]