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Abstract Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is a group of medical devices that connect the healthcare information technology to minimize the redundant hospital visit and healthcare system troubles. IoMT connect the patients to the doctor and transmit the medical data over the network. The spread of corona virus has put the people at high risk. Due to increasing number of cases and its stress on health professionals, IoMT technology is used in many healthcare centers. But, the security level and data classification accuracy was not improved by existing methods during the data communication. In order to solve these issues, Cayley–Purser Cryptographic Secured Communication based Jackknife Correlative Data Classification (CPCSC-JCDC) method is designed. The key objective of CPCSC-JCDC method is to collect the patient information through IoMT devices and send to the doctor in more secured manner. Initially in CPCSC-JCDC method, the patient data is collected. After the data collection process, the data gets encrypted with help of public key of the patient by using cayley–purser cryptosystem. After the encryption process, the data is sent to the doctor. The doctor receives and decrypts the patient data by using their private key. After decryption process, the doctor analyses the patient data and classifies the data as emergency case or normal case by using jackknife correlation function. This helps to minimize the patient readmission rate and increase the patient satisfaction level. Experimental evaluation is carried out by Novel Corona Virus 2019 dataset using different metrics like data classification accuracy, data classification time and security level. The evaluation result shows that CPCSC-JCDC method improves the security level as well as accuracy and minimizes the time consumption during data communication than existing works.

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a predominant health concern globally, emphasizing the need for advanced diagnostic techniques. In our research, we present an avant-garde methodology that synergistically integrates ECG readings and retinal fundus images to facilitate the early disease tagging as well as triaging of the CVDs in the order of disease priority. Recognizing the intricate vascular network of the retina as a reflection of the cardiovascular system, alongwith the dynamic cardiac insights from ECG, we sought to provide a holistic diagnostic perspective. Initially, a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) was applied to both the ECG and fundus images, transforming the data into the frequency domain. Subsequently, the Earth Mover’s Distance (EMD) was computed for the frequency-domain features of both modalities. These EMD values were then concatenated, forming a comprehensive feature set that was fed into a Neural Network classifier. This approach, leveraging the FFT’s spectral insights and EMD’s capability to capture nuanced data differences, offers a robust representation for CVD classification. Preliminary tests yielded a commendable accuracy of 84%, underscoring the potential of this combined diagnostic strategy. As we continue our research, we anticipate refining and validating the model further to enhance its clinical applicability in resource limited healthcare ecosystems prevalent across the Indian sub-continent and also the world at large.

A bidirectional communication exists between the brain and the gut, in which the gut microbiota influences cognitive function and vice-versa. Gut dysbiosis has been linked to several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). However, the relationship between gut dysbiosis and markers of cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD), a major contributor to ADRD, is unknown. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the connection between the gut microbiome, cognitive, and neuroimaging markers of cSVD in the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). Markers of cSVD included white matter hyperintensities (WMH), peak width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD), and executive function (EF), estimated as the difference between the trail-making tests B and A. We included 972 FHS participants with MRI scans, neurocognitive measures, and stool samples and quantified the gut microbiota composition using 16S rRNA sequencing. We used multivariable association and differential abundance analyses adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and education level to estimate the association between gut microbiota and WMH, PSMD, and EF measures. Our results suggest an increased abundance of Pseudobutyrivibrio and Ruminococcus genera was associated with lower WMH and PSMD (p values

Abstract Gene function can be described using various measures. We integrated association studies of three types of omics data to provide insights into the pathophysiology of subclinical coronary disease and myocardial infarction (MI). Using multivariable regression models, we associated: (1) single nucleotide polymorphism, (2) DNA methylation, and (3) gene expression with coronary artery calcification (CAC) scores and MI. Among 3106 participants of the Framingham Heart Study, 65 (2.1%) had prevalent MI and 60 (1.9%) had incident MI, median CAC value was 67.8 [IQR 10.8, 274.9], and 1403 (45.2%) had CAC scores > 0 (prevalent CAC). Prevalent CAC was associated with AHRR (linked to smoking) and EXOC3 (affecting platelet function and promoting hemostasis). CAC score was associated with VWA1 (extracellular matrix protein associated with cartilage structure in endomysium). For prevalent MI we identified FYTTD1 (down-regulated in familial hypercholesterolemia) and PINK1 (linked to cardiac tissue homeostasis and ischemia–reperfusion injury). Incident MI was associated with IRX3 (enhancing browning of white adipose tissue) and STXBP3 (controlling trafficking of glucose transporter type 4 to plasma). Using an integrative trans-omics approach, we identified both putatively novel and known candidate genes associated with CAC and MI. Replication of findings is warranted.

Abstract This work focused on the novel symmetrical left-handed split ring resonator metamaterial for terahertz frequency applications. A compact substrate material known as Silicon with a dimension of 5 µm was adopted in this research investigation. Moreover, several parameter studies were investigated, such as clockwise rotation, array and layer structure designs, larger-scale metamaterials, novel design structure comparisons and electric field distribution analysis. Meanwhile, two types of square-shaped metamaterial designs were proposed in this work. The proposed designs exhibit double and single resonance frequencies respectively, likely at 3.32 and 9.24 THz with magnitude values of − 16.43 and − 17.33 for the first design, while the second design exhibits a response at 3.03 THz with a magnitude value of − 19.90. Moreover, the verification of these results by adopting High-frequency Structure Simulator software indicates only slight discrepancies which are less than 5%. Furthermore, the initial response of the proposed designs was successfully altered by simply rotating the design clockwise or even increasing the dimension of the design. For instance, the first resonance frequency is shifted to the lower band when the first proposed design was rotated 90°. On the other hand, by increasing the size of the metamaterial, more than nine resonance frequencies were gained in each symmetric design. Furthermore, the symmetric metamaterial with a similar width and length of 10 µm dimension was adopted for both design structures to construct an equivalent circuit model by utilising Advanced Design System software. Finally, both unit cell designs were utilised to explore the absorption performances which exhibit four and five peak points. Overall, the altering behaviour by changing physical properties and compact design with acceptable responses become one of the novelties of this research investigation. In a nutshell, the proposed designs can be utilised in terahertz frequency which gives optimistic or advantageous feedback and is relatively suitable for the adopted frequency range.

Abstract Management of vehicle traffic is a challenging task as it is non-deterministic by nature. Vehicular Cyber-Physical Systems (VCPS) is the emerging field of dynamics of vehicle management. Vehicle localization is considered an important task in VCPS. Many researchers proposed methodologies for this based on the Global Positioning System (GPS) which poses few location identification errors. Also, there are more vulnerabilities to the existing vehicular positioning system due to Zig-Zag attacks and bad-mouth attacks. In this work, an error-free and secure environment for communication between dynamically moving vehicle models has been proposed. In our proposed model a localization technique based on mathematical geometry which is capable of GPS outages and encompasses the dynamism of vehicle and on-road trajectory has been developed. The proposed model includes Extended Kalman filter-based routing to predict the neighbouring vehicle position. To avoid vulnerabilities created by the malicious nodes, a trust-based computation is performed by each node on its neighbours perceiving the authenticity of received messages. To validate the methodology, NS2 tool has been used to simulate the VCPS and to test the efficiency with different scenarios such as erroneous location, GPS outage, and malicious attack. The result shows that the proposed approach is more optimal and secure than the existing methodologies.

Abstract The widespread use of synthetic pesticides has resulted in a number of issues, including a rise in insecticide-resistant organisms, environmental degradation, and a hazard to human health. As a result, new microbial derived insecticides that are safe for human health and the environment are urgently needed. In this study, rhamnolipid biosurfactants produced from Enterobacter cloacae SJ2 was used to evaluate the toxicity towards mosquito larvae (Culex quinquefasciatus) and termites (Odontotermes obesus). Results showed dose dependent mortality rate was observed between the treatments. The 48 h LC50 (median lethal concentration) values of the biosurfactant were determined for termite and mosquito larvae following the non-linear regression curve fit method. Results showed larvicidal activity and anti-termite activity of biosurfactants with 48 h LC50 value (95% confidence interval) of 26.49 mg/L (25.40 to 27.57) and 33.43 mg/L (31.09 to 35.68), respectively. According to a histopathological investigation, the biosurfactant treatment caused substantial tissue damage in cellular organelles of larvae and termites. The findings of this study suggest that the microbial biosurfactant produced by E. cloacae SJ2 is an excellent and potentially effective agent for controlling Cx. quinquefasciatus and O. obesus.

Abstract A bidirectional communication exists between the brain and the gut, in which the gut microbiota influences cognitive function and vice-versa. Gut dysbiosis has been linked to several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). However, the relationship between gut dysbiosis and markers of cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD), a major contributor to ADRD, is unknown. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the connection between the gut microbiome, cognitive, and neuroimaging markers of cSVD in the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). Markers of cSVD included white matter hyperintensities (WMH), peak width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD), and executive function (EF), estimated as the difference between the trail-making tests B and A. We included 972 FHS participants with MRI scans, neurocognitive measures, and stool samples and quantified the gut microbiota composition using 16S rRNA sequencing. We used multivariable association and differential abundance analyses adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and education level to estimate the association between gut microbiota and WMH, PSMD, and EF measures. Our results suggest an increased abundance of Pseudobutyrivibrio and Ruminococcus genera was associated with lower WMH and PSMD (p values

Abstract Expression quantitative trait methylation (eQTM) analysis identifies DNA CpG sites at which methylation is associated with gene expression. The present study describes an eQTM resource of CpG-transcript pairs derived from whole blood DNA methylation and RNA sequencing gene expression data in 2115 Framingham Heart Study participants. We identified 70,047 significant cis CpG-transcript pairs at p

Abstract Physical activity (PA) levels may have changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these changes are not well understood. The study aimed to describe the PA level and examine the predictive factors of a health-enhancing PA level among working women in Singapore two years into the COVID-19 pandemic. We undertook a cross-sectional descriptive correlational study. Three hundred participants were recruited and completed the online questionnaire between October and November 2021. In the PA analysis of 217 participants, only 32.7% of the participants achieved a health-enhancing PA level, while 44.7% of the total sample sat for 7 h or more daily. In the univariate analysis, occupation, nationality, monthly income, and average daily sitting hours were significantly associated with a high PA level. The current mode of work, living arrangement, and health-promoting lifestyle profile II_physical activity score remained significant in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Participants who worked from home and stayed with their families were less likely to achieve a health-enhancing PA level than those who had a regular workplace and did not stay with their families. Working women with a health-promoting physically active lifestyle were likelier to achieve a health-enhancing PA level. The long daily sitting time and suboptimal health-enhancing PA participation underscore the need for health promotion initiatives for working women.

Abstract To create a scientific resource of expression quantitative trail loci (eQTL), we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using genotypes obtained from whole genome sequencing (WGS) of DNA and gene expression levels from RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of whole blood in 2622 participants in Framingham Heart Study. We identified 6,778,286 cis-eQTL variant-gene transcript (eGene) pairs at p

Abstract DNA methylation commonly occurs at cytosine-phosphate-guanine sites (CpGs) that can serve as biomarkers for many diseases. We analyzed whole genome sequencing data to identify DNA methylation quantitative trait loci (mQTLs) in 4126 Framingham Heart Study participants. Our mQTL mapping identified 94,362,817 cis-mQTLvariant-CpG pairs (for 210,156 unique autosomal CpGs) at P

Abstract Mechanical unloading of the body in the hindlimb unloaded (HU) mice induces pathology in multiple organs, but the effects on testes are poorly characterized. We investigated the histology and Raman spectroscopy of the mouse testes following HU condition. We divided male, c57BL/6j mice into ground-based controls or experimental groups for two and four weeks of HU. The testes tissues were dissected after euthanasia to investigate histological and Raman spectroscopic analysis. We found an HU-induced atrophy of testes irrespective of the time duration (p

Abstract To examine the retinal structure and function in relation to diabetes duration and glycemia in patients without diabetic retinopathy (DR). 85 adults with type 2 diabetes without DR or macular edema underwent dilated indirect ophthalmoscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultra-wide field fundus photography, multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and HbA1C assessment. Patients were stratified as those with diabetes duration

Abstract To study the association and possible predictive role of visfatin, resistin, fetuin-A and chemerin with incident type 2 diabetes (T2DM) among Asian Indians with prediabetes. Their association with insulin resistance, β-cell function, glycaemia and anthropometry were also studied. This is a nested case–control study of a large 2-year prospective prevention trial in persons at high risk of developing T2DM. Baseline HbA1c values between 6.0% (42 mmol/mol) and 6.2% (44 mmol/mol) were chosen for this analysis (n = 144). At follow-up, persons with incident T2DM (HbA1c ≥ 6.5%, 48 mmol/mol) were grouped as cases (n = 72) and those reverted to normoglycaemia, (HbA1c

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a prevalent microvascular complication of diabetes, is the fifth leading cause of blindness worldwide. Given the critical nature of the disease, it is paramount that individuals with diabetes undergo annual screening for early and timely detection of DR, facilitating prompt ophthalmic assessment and intervention. However, screening for DR, which involves assessing visual acuity and retinal examination through ophthalmoscopy or retinal photography, presents a significant global challenge due to the massive volume of individuals requiring annual reviews. To counter this challenge, there has been an increasing interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for automated diagnosis of DR. The AI tools primarily utilize deep learning (DL) techniques and are tailored to analyse extensive medical image data and provide diagnostic outputs, essentially streamline the DR screening process. However, the development of such AI tools requires access to a comprehensive retinal image database with a plethora of high-resolution fundus images from various cameras, covering all DR lesions. Additionally, the accurate training of these AI algorithms necessitates skilled professionals, such as optometrists or ophthalmologists, to provide reliable ground truths that ensure the precision of the diagnostic outputs. To address these prerequisites, we have initiated a study involving multiple institutions to establish a large-scale online 'Retinal Image Database' in India, aiming to contribute significantly to DR research. This paper delineates the methodology employed for this significant undertaking, detailing the steps taken to create the large retinal image database, as well as the framework for developing a cost-effective, robust AI-based DR diagnostic tool. Our work is expected to mark a significant stride in DR detection and management, promising a more efficient and scalable solution for tackling this global health challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a predominant health concern globally, emphasizing the need for advanced diagnostic techniques. In our research, we present an avant-garde methodology that synergistically integrates ECG readings and retinal fundus images to facilitate the early disease tagging as well as triaging of the CVDs in the order of disease priority. Recognizing the intricate vascular network of the retina as a reflection of the cardiovascular system, alongwith the dynamic cardiac insights from ECG, we sought to provide a holistic diagnostic perspective. Initially, a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) was applied to both the ECG and fundus images, transforming the data into the frequency domain. Subsequently, the Earth Mover's Distance (EMD) was computed for the frequency-domain features of both modalities. These EMD values were then concatenated, forming a comprehensive feature set that was fed into a Neural Network classifier. This approach, leveraging the FFT's spectral insights and EMD's capability to capture nuanced data differences, offers a robust representation for CVD classification. Preliminary tests yielded a commendable accuracy of 84%, underscoring the potential of this combined diagnostic strategy. As we continue our research, we anticipate refining and validating the model further to enhance its clinical applicability in resource limited healthcare ecosystems prevalent across the Indian sub-continent and also the world at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Despite their widespread use for performing advanced electromagnetic properties, metamaterial suffers from several restrictions in this technological era. Generally, technology affects the way individuals communicate, learn, think and plays an important role in society today. For this reason, there has been a surge of interest in a coding metamaterial field that possesses the ability to manipulate electromagnetic waves and realize different functionalities. This research work investigates circular-shaped coding metamaterial for microwave frequency applications through several analyses. First, the 1-bit coding metamaterial that is made up of only “0” and “1” elements with 0 and π phase responses by adopting two types of unit cells such as square-shaped Rogers RT6002 substrate material with and without metamaterial structure were analysed in this work. The proposed element ‘1’ successfully manifests several more than 180○ phase responses at several frequency ranges, for instance, 7.35 to 9.48 GHz, 12.87 to 14.25 GHz and 17.49 to 18 GHz (C, X, and Ku-bands), respectively. Besides that, three types of coding sequences were proposed and the radar cross-section (RCS) reduction values of the designs were numerically calculated by utilising Computer Simulation Technology (CST) software. Meanwhile, the single-layered coding metamaterial with 6 lattices was compared with double and triple-layered metamaterial structures. At 2 GHz, the triple-layered structure exhibit reduced RCS values with near to − 30 dBm2 for all coding sequences. Therefore, the transmission coefficient results of the triple-layered coding metamaterial sequences were numerically calculated. Several advanced coding metamaterial designs were constructed and the properties were discussed in terms of RCS values and scattering patterns. Meanwhile, the scattering and effective medium parameters of the unit cell metamaterial structure were also analysed in this work. In a nutshell, the 1-bit coding metamaterial in a controlled sequence can control electromagnetic waves and realize different functionalities.

Abstract Date palm fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) were found to contain high levels of allomelanin (1.2–5.1%). The melanin is localized in the tanniferous cells between the inner and outer mesocarp tissues of the fruit. The melanin, extracted with 2 M sodium hydroxide, consisted of amorphous graphene-like granular structures of irregular shape and variable size. The date fruit melanin mainly comprises carbon (64.6%) and oxygen (30.6) but no nitrogen, and was thermally stable. It has radical scavenging (63.6–75.1 IC50, µg/mL), antimicrobial (250–1000 µg/mL), hypoglycemic (51.8–58.2%), and angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitory (65.8%) effects. The high level of melanin in date fruits highlights the importance of investigating its dietary intake and its impact on nutrition. This study also suggests that date fruit melanin can be a functional ingredient in foods, food packages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

This paper has been retracted at the request of the authors.

Abstract This study was conducted to investigate the ultrastructure of a unique structures at the anterior side of the endothelium of the posterior peripheral cornea and compare their inner fibers to those of the limbus and sclera. The unique structures at the anterior side of endothelium was referred as a pre-endothelial (PENL) structures in the present manuscript. Ten anonymous-donor human corneoscleral rims (leftover after corneal transplants) were processed for electron microscopy. Semi-thin sections were examined using an Olympus BX53 microscope, and ultrathin sections were studied using a JOEL 1400 transmission electron microscope. A unique PENL structures was identified at the posterior peripheral cornea at a radial distance of approximately 70–638 µm, from the endpoint of Descemet’s membrane. The PENL thinned out gradually and disappeared in the center. The contained an electron-dense sheath with periodic structures (narrow-spacing fibers), wide-spacing fibers, and numerous microfibrils. Typical elastic fibers were present in the sclera and limbus but were not observed in the PENL. This study revealed the existence of a new acellular PENL, containing unique fibrillar structures that were unseen in the corneal stroma. From the evidence describe in this paper we therefore suggest that PENL is a distinct morphological structure present at the corneal periphery.

Abstract This research study introduces a multi-layered square-shaped metamaterial (MSM) structure for the electromagnetic (EM) absorption reduction in wireless mobile devices. Usually, wireless devices, for example, a cellular phone emits radiofrequency (RF) energy to the surroundings when used it. Moreover, fast-growing wireless communication technologies that support cellular data networks have also motivated this study. Hence, the focus of the research was to reduce the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for the Sub-6 frequency range by designing a multi-layered and compact, 10 × 10mm2 sized metamaterial structure that can be attached inside a mobile phone by avowing any overlapping with existing parts. Overall, six distinct square-shaped metamaterials were constructed on 0.25 mm thick Rogers RO3006 substrate material to reach the target of this investigation. Furthermore, numerical simulations of the proposed metamaterial electromagnetic properties and SAR reduction values were performed by adopting Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio 2019 software. From these simulations, the proposed MSM structure exhibited multi-band resonance frequencies accurately at 1.200, 1.458, 1.560, 1.896 GHz (at L-band), 2.268, 2.683 2.940, 3.580 GHz (at S-band) and 5.872 GHz (at C-band). Simultaneously, the proposed MSM structure was simulated in High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) to authenticate the numerical simulation data. The comparison of simulation data shows that only the primary and last resonance frequencies were reduced by 0.02 and 0.012 GHz, whereas the rest of the frequencies were increased by 0.042, 0.030, 0.040, 0.032, 0.107, 0.080, and 0.020 GHz in sequential order. In addition, the introduced MSM structure manifests left-handed behaviour at all the resonance frequencies. Nevertheless, the highest recorded SAR values were 98.136% and 98.283% at 1.560 GHz for 1 g and 10 g of tissue volumes. In conclusion, the proposed MSM met the objectives of this research study and can be employed in EM absorption reduction applications.

Abstract Superconducting crystals with a lack of inversion symmetry can potentially host unconventional pairing. However, till today, no direct conclusive experimental evidence of such unconventional order parameters in non-centrosymmetric superconductors has been reported. In this paper, through direct measurement of the superconducting energy gap by scanning tunnelling spectroscopy, we report the existence of both s-wave (singlet) and p-wave (triplet) pairing symmetries in non-centrosymmetric Ru $$_7$$ 7 B $$_3$$ 3 . Our temperature and magnetic field-dependent studies also indicate that the relative amplitudes of the singlet and triplet components change differently with temperature.

Abstract The role of personality traits in modulating the incidence and progression of medical disease conditions are well documented, however, there is a paucity of information for its effects on dental health conditions and specifically on the prognosis of restorative dental materials. This study aims to evaluate the clinical performance of Micro-hybrid and Nano-ceramic composite restorations among patients with different personality traits. A total of 323 patients, indicated to receive operative treatment at a University Dental College Hospital, were invited to participate in this study. Consenting patients were requested to complete the Big Five Inventory (BFI-44 Item) personality questionnaire and were evaluated by a psychiatrist for categorizing the participants based on their personality traits. Out of the recruited patients, 124 patients falling in to the dominant trait of Agreeableness (n = 62) and Neuroticism (n = 62) were included in the study for further investigation. Next, patients from the Agreeableness (Group A) and the Neuroticism personality trait group (Group N) were randomly divided into two subgroups each—sub group Am (n = 44) and Nm (n = 48) for Micro-hybrid composite restorations and Sub group An (n = 42) and Nn (n = 47) for Nano-ceramic composite restorations. Two trained and calibrated dentists prepared the cavities according to previously published methodology. The restorations were evaluated at baseline (immediately after restoration), 6-months, 12-months and 24-months intervals by two blinded independent dental professionals for anatomical form, secondary caries, color match, retention, marginal adaptation, surface texture, marginal discoloration and post-operative sensitivity. There is no statistically significant difference noted in various parameters of restoration performance between Micro-hybrid composite and Nano-ceramic composite compared among ‘agreeableness’ personality group and among ‘neuroticism’ personality group after controlling the personality trait factor. Higher ‘Neuroticism’ individuals had higher restoration deterioration in color matching and surface texture when compared to higher ‘Agreeableness’ trait individuals. Regression analysis showed no effect of gender or cavity size on the outcome of results. Assessment of personality traits may serve as a useful tool during treatment planning which would aid clinicians in choosing suitable restorative dental material and prosthesis design according to individual patient’s physiological and functional needs, thereby overall improving the quality of treatment provided.

Abstract Prediction models for population-based screening need, for global usage, to be resource-driven, involving predictors that are affordably resourced. Here, we report the development and validation of three resource-driven risk models to identify people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) at risk of stage 3 CKD defined by a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to below 60 mL/min/1.73m2. The observational study cohort used for model development consisted of data from a primary care dataset of 20,510 multi-ethnic individuals with T2DM from London, UK (2007–2018). Discrimination and calibration of the resulting prediction models developed using cox regression were assessed using the c-statistic and calibration slope, respectively. Models were internally validated using tenfold cross-validation and externally validated on 13,346 primary care individuals from Wales, UK. The simplest model was simplified into a risk score to enable implementation in community-based medicine. The derived full model included demographic, laboratory parameters, medication-use, cardiovascular disease history (CVD) and sight threatening retinopathy status (STDR). Two less resource-intense models were developed by excluding CVD and STDR in the second model and HbA1c and HDL in the third model. All three 5-year risk models had good internal discrimination and calibration (optimism adjusted C-statistics were each 0.85 and calibration slopes 0.999–1.002). In Wales, models achieved excellent discrimination(c-statistics ranged 0.82–0.83). Calibration slopes at 5-years suggested models over-predicted risks, however were successfully updated to accommodate reduced incidence of stage 3 CKD in Wales, which improved their alignment with the observed rates in Wales (E/O ratios near to 1). The risk score demonstrated similar model performance compared to direct evaluation of the cox model. These resource-driven risk prediction models may enable universal screening for Stage 3 CKD to enable targeted early optimisation of risk factors for CKD.

Abstract Screening effectively identifies patients at risk of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy (STDR) when retinal images are captured through dilated pupils. Pharmacological mydriasis is not logistically feasible in non-clinical, community DR screening, where acquiring gradable retinal images using handheld devices exhibits high technical failure rates, reducing STDR detection. Deep learning (DL) based gradability predictions at acquisition could prompt device operators to recapture insufficient quality images, increasing gradable image proportions and consequently STDR detection. Non-mydriatic retinal images were captured as part of SMART India, a cross-sectional, multi-site, community-based, house-to-house DR screening study between August 2018 and December 2019 using the Zeiss Visuscout 100 handheld camera. From 18,277 patient eyes (40,126 images), 16,170 patient eyes (35,319 images) were eligible and 3261 retinal images (1490 patient eyes) were sampled then labelled by two ophthalmologists. Compact DL model area under the receiver operator characteristic curve was 0.93 (0.01) following five-fold cross-validation. Compact DL model agreement (Kappa) were 0.58, 0.69 and 0.69 for high specificity, balanced sensitivity/specificity and high sensitivity operating points compared to an inter-grader agreement of 0.59. Compact DL gradability model performance was favourable compared to ophthalmologists. Compact DL models can effectively classify non-mydriatic, handheld retinal image gradability with potential applications within community-based DR screening.

Abstract This study explores the effect of symmetrical square shaped metamaterial design for microwave frequency applications. The latest technology demands of advanced performance and research studies of metamaterial integration in the related bands are increasing tremendously. Therefore, this motivates us to explore the metamaterial design structure that has a high possibility to be applied in more than two resonance bands using a compact design structure. This study emphasis on a compact 14 × 14 mm2 and 1.524 mm thick substrate material known as Rogers RT6002. Seven distinct square shaped metamaterial (SQM) rings were constructed on the substrate material to achieve the goal of this research study. Besides that, the investigations of the metamaterial electromagnetic properties and effective medium parameters were carried out by utilising the Computer Simulation Technology Microwave Studio (CST) software. According to the numerical simulation results, the proposed SQM unit cell manifested quintuple resonance frequencies precisely at 3.384 (S band), 5.436, 7.002 (C band), 11.664 (X band), and 17.838 GHz (Ku band). Meanwhile, for the validation process, the comparison between the simulation and measurement results was analysed and data showed that the first and third resonance frequencies were increased by 0.336 and 0.139 GHz, respectively while other frequencies were reduced by 0.186, 0.081, and 0.709 GHz in sequential order. The numerical simulation of the metamaterial design was conducted in a High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) to further validate the results. Furthermore, the proposed SQM manifested left handed characteristics at the second to fifth resonance bands. In a nutshell, the SQM successfully achieves the objectives of this research work and can be applied to multi band applications.

Abstract This study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of metamaterial application in absorption reduction of 5G electromagnetic (EM) energy in the human head tissue. In a general sense, the radio frequency (RF) energy that received by wireless mobile phone from the base station, will emit to surrounding when the devices are in active mode. Since the latest fifth generation technology standard for cellular networks is upon us, the emission of radiation from any wireless devices needs to be taken into consideration. This motivation helps to prepare this paper that focuses on construction of novel and compact square-shaped metamaterial (SM) design to reduce electromagnetic exposure to humans. The commercially available substrate material known as FR-4 with thickness of 1.6 mm was selected to place the metamaterial design on it. The electromagnetic properties and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) analyses were carried out numerically by utilising high-performance 3D EM analysis, Computer Simulation Technology Studio (CST) software. Meanwhile, for the validation purpose, the metamaterial designs for both unit and array cells were fabricated to measure the electromagnetic properties of the material. From the numerical simulation, the introduced SM design manifested quadruple resonance frequencies in multi bands precisely at 1.246 (at L-band), 3.052, 3.794 (at S-band), and 4.858 (C-band) GHz. However, the comparison of numerically simulated and measured data reveals a slight difference between them where only the second resonance frequency was decreased by 0.009 GHz while other frequencies were increased by 0.002, 0.045, and 0.117 GHz in sequential order. Moreover, the SAR analysis recorded high values at 3.794 GHz with 61.16% and 70.33% for 1 g and 10 g of tissue volumes, respectively. Overall, our results demonstrate strong SAR reduction effects, and the proposed SM design may be considered a promising aspect in the telecommunication field.

Abstract Cytokine profiling is a valuable tool for monitoring immune responses associated with disease and treatment. This study assessed the impact of sex and sedation on serum cytokines in healthy nonhuman primates (NHPs). Twenty-three cytokines were measured from serum using a bead-based multiplex assay. Assay validation for precision, sensitivity, recovery, linearity, and stability was performed. Samples from male and female cynomolgus and rhesus macaques either cooperating or sedated were compared. All cytokines except TNFα demonstrated acceptable sensitivity and precision, with variable recovery and linearity. IFNγ, IL-2, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12/23 (p40), IL-13, IL-15, MCP-1, TGFα, VEGF met acceptance criteria; G-CSF, IL-4, IL-10, MIP1α, sCD40L were marginal. Higher cytokine levels were observed in females and cytokine levels were blunted in sedated NHPs when compared to awake cooperating NHPs. Significant differences observed in cytokines related to sex, species, or imposed by handling highlight the importance of model design on translational relevance for clinical settings.

Abstract The aim of the present study is to investigate the functional role of TNF-α single-nucleotide polymorphisms/haplotypes in an association with reproductive tract infections (RTIs) in symptomatic and asymptomatic women. A total of 850 consecutive subjects consisting of 400 cases and 450 healthy controls, were screened for RTIs, along with their risk factors and associated symptoms. The propensity score matching was performed to reduce the confounding bias arise owing to covariates and to balance the data between two groups. A total of 211 pairs (1:1) have been created. Genotyping of rs1800629 (-308) and rs361525 (-238) SNPs of TNF-α was done by PCR–RFLP followed by sequencing. The functional implication of TNF-α SNPs in an association with RTIs was also checked by using ELISA. The frequency of -238A allele and -308A allele was found to be twofold (P

Abstract Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The present work reports the design and synthesis of a hybrid of the precursors of rifampicin and clofazimine, which led to the discovery of a novel Rifaphenazine (RPZ) molecule with potent anti-TB activity. In addition, the efficacy of RPZ was evaluated in-vitro using the reference strain Mtb H37Rv. Herein, 2,3 diamino phenazine, a precursor of an anti-TB drug clofazimine, was tethered to the rifampicin core. This 2,3 diamino phenazine did not have an inherent anti-TB activity even at a concentration of up to 2 µg/mL, while rifampicin did not exhibit any activity against Mtb at a concentration of 0.1 µg/mL. However, the synthesized novel Rifaphenzine (RPZ) inhibited 78% of the Mtb colonies at a drug concentration of 0.1 µg/mL, while 93% of the bacterial colonies were killed at 0.5 µg/mL of the drug. Furthermore, the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value for RPZ was 1 µg/mL. Time-kill studies revealed that all bacterial colonies were killed within a period of 24 h. The synthesized novel molecule was characterized using high-resolution mass spectroscopy and NMR spectroscopy. Cytotoxicity studies (IC50) were performed on human monocytic cell line THP-1, and the determined IC50 value was 96 µg/mL, which is non-cytotoxic.

Abstract Facile and efficient solution-processed bottom gate top contact organic field-effect transistor was fabricated by employing the active layer of picene (donor, D) and N,N′-di(dodecyl)-perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic diimide (acceptor, A). Balanced hole (0.12 cm2/Vs) and electron (0.10 cm2/Vs) mobility with Ion/off of 104 ratio were obtained for 1:1 ratio of D/A blend. On increasing the ratio of either D or A, the charge carrier mobility and Ion/off ratio improved than that of the pristine molecules. Maximum hole (µmax,h) and electron mobilities (µmax,e) were achieved up to 0.44 cm2/Vs for 3:1 and 0.25 cm2/Vs for 1:3, (D/A) respectively. This improvement is due to the donor phase function as the trap center for minority holes and decreased trap density of the dielectric layer, and vice versa. High ionization potential (− 5.71 eV) of 3:1 and lower electron affinity of (− 3.09 eV) of 1:3 supports the fine tuning of frontier molecular orbitals in the blend. The additional peak formed for the blends at high negative potential of − 1.3 V in cyclic voltammetry supports the molecular level electronic interactions of D and A. Thermal studies supported the high thermal stability of D/A blends and SEM analysis of thin films indicated their efficient molecular packing. Quasi-π–π stacking owing to the large π conjugated plane and the crystallinity of the films are well proved by GIXRD. DFT calculations also supported the electronic distribution of the molecules. The electron density of states (DOS) of pristine D and A molecules specifies the non-negligible interaction coupling among the molecules. This D/A pair has unlimited prospective for plentiful electronic applications in non-volatile memory devices, inverters and logic circuits.

Abstract Cystic fibrosis (CF), caused by mutations to CFTR, leads to severe and progressive lung disease. The most common mutant, ΔF508-CFTR, undergoes proteasomal degradation, extinguishing its anion channel function. Numerous in vitro interventions have been identified to partially rescue ΔF508-CFTR function yet remain poorly understood. Improved understanding of both the altered state of CF cells and the mechanisms of existing rescue strategies could reveal novel therapeutic strategies. Toward this aim, we measured transcriptional profiles of established temperature, genetic, and chemical interventions that rescue ΔF508-CFTR and also re-analyzed public datasets characterizing transcription in human CF vs. non-CF samples from airway and whole blood. Meta-analysis yielded a core disease signature and two core rescue signatures. To interpret these through the lens of prior knowledge, we compiled a “CFTR Gene Set Library” from literature. The core disease signature revealed remarkably strong connections to genes with established effects on CFTR trafficking and function and suggested novel roles of EGR1 and SGK1 in the disease state. Our data also revealed an unexpected mechanistic link between several genetic rescue interventions and the unfolded protein response. Finally, we found that C18, an analog of the CFTR corrector compound Lumacaftor, induces almost no transcriptional perturbation despite its rescue activity.