Search

Supreeth Kumar Reddy Kunnuru,1 Manuneethimaran Thiyagarajan,1 Jovita Martin Daniel,2 Balaji Singh K1 1General Surgery Department, Sri Ramachandra Medical University, Chennai 600116, India; 2Medical Oncology Department, Sri Ramachandra Medical University, Chennai 600116, IndiaCorrespondence: Manuneethimaran ThiyagarajanGeneral Surgery Department, Sri Ramachandra Medical University, 9036, Tower 9b, Prestige, Iyyapanthanagal, Chennai 614613, IndiaTel +91 9952044955Email profmaran@gmail.comJovita Martin Daniel Medical Oncology DepartmentSri Ramachandra Medical University, Porur, Chennai 600116, IndiaPorur Email jovimartin4@gmail.comAim and objectives: To assess the effectiveness of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and its impact on the clinical and pathological response in locally advanced breast cancer. To compare molecular subtypes of breast cancer with response to neo-adjuvant chemotherapy.Patients and methods: This was a prospective study on patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast carcinoma for a 3-year period. A total of 60 patients who presented with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Forty patients were treated with the 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin, and cyclophosphamide (FEC) schedule, 16 patients were treated with Adriamycin and cyclophosphamide (AC), and four patients were treated with oral cyclophosphamide, intravenous methotrexate, and fluorouracil (CMF). Taxol was added in all node-positive cases, triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), and Her 2 positive cases. The clinical response was assessed with RECIST criteria after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The response was compared with molecular subtypes of carcinoma breast and receptor status individually.Results: A total of 60 female patients receiving primary chemotherapy for locally advanced breast malignancy were studied. The median age of the patients at the time of diagnosis was 44 years (range=24– 73). In terms of menopausal status, 25 (42%) patients were pre-menopausal and 35 (58%) patients were post-menopausal. Histological classification showed invasive ductal carcinoma in 72% of patients, invasive lobular carcinoma in 15% of patients, and other types including mixed patterns in 13% of patients. Among 60 patients, 16 patients (26.6%) had clinically complete remission (cCR), 30 patients (50%) had partial remission, eight patients (13.3%) had stable disease, and six patients (10%) had progressive disease. Following neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 46 (76.6%) patient underwent Modified radical mastectomy surgery. Target therapy was given for Her2 neu patients after surgery. Hormonal therapy was added to hormone ER PR positive cases postoperatively. Eight patients (13.3%) among this operated cases attained complete pathological response.Conclusion: Preoperative chemotherapy downstages the primary tumors and axillary metastasis in patients with locally advanced breast carcinoma. Comparison of molecular subtypes with chemotherapy response is a better way to find out the predictors of response to chemotherapy.Keywords: neoadjuvant chemotherapy, carcinoma breast, predictors of NACT response, clinical and pathological response to NACT

Glymphatic transport, defined as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) peri-arterial inflow into brain, and interstitial fluid (ISF) clearance, is reduced in the aging brain. However, it is unclear whether glymphatic transport affects the distribution of soluble Aβ in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In wild type mice, we show that Aβ40 (fluorescently labeled Aβ40 or unlabeled Aβ40), was distributed from CSF to brain, via the peri-arterial space, and associated with neurons. In contrast, Aβ42 was mostly restricted to the peri-arterial space due mainly to its greater propensity to oligomerize when compared to Aβ40. Interestingly, pretreatment with Aβ40 in the CSF, but not Aβ42, reduced CSF transport into brain. In APP/PS1 mice, a model of AD, with and without extensive amyloid-β deposits, glymphatic transport was reduced, due to the accumulation of toxic Aβ species, such as soluble oligomers. CSF-derived Aβ40 co-localizes with existing endogenous vascular and parenchymal amyloid-β plaques, and thus, may contribute to the progression of both cerebral amyloid angiopathy and parenchymal Aβ accumulation. Importantly, glymphatic failure preceded significant amyloid-β deposits, and thus, may be an early biomarker of AD. By extension, restoring glymphatic inflow and ISF clearance are potential therapeutic targets to slow the onset and progression of AD.

This paper presents Dynamic Gait Signature Analysis (DGSA), an innovative approach to gait analysis that leverages deep graph learning techniques. Unlike conventional methods, DGSA leverages multifaceted parameters and advanced deep graph learning techniques, such as Graph Convolutional Networks (GCNs) and Graph Attention Networks (GATs). These techniques enable a comprehensive analysis of gait dynamics, including the use of dynamic graph representation methods like Gait Cycle Joint Angles Graph and Gait Cycle Joint Power Graph. DGSA's unique framework allows for simultaneous prediction of neurological diseases, gait classification, and early detection of cognitive impairments. By modeling gait as dynamic graph structures, DGSA captures intricate relationships between body movements and foot positions, ultimately enhancing accuracy in classification and prediction tasks. Comprehensive experiments on real-world datasets demonstrate DGSA's robustness, generalization, and superiority in accuracy. Our approach achieves notable accuracy metrics: gait velocity (1.6 m/s), dynamic stability margin (5.6 cm), gait variability (2.4%), joint range of motion (56 degrees), dynamic balance index (0.4), minimum toe clearance (2.3 cm), foot progression angle (8.6 degrees), and dynamic joint stiffness (172). This study includes a comparative analysis of gait analysis approaches based on these key performance metrics, demonstrating DGSA's significant advancement in gait analysis methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Divider is generically used for dividing the Road for ongoing and incoming traffic. This helps keeping the flow of traffic; generally, there is equal number of lanes for both ongoing and incoming traffic. The problem with Static Road Dividers is that the number of lanes on either side of the road is fixed. Since the resources are limited and population as well as number of cars per family is increasing, there is significant increase in number of cars on roads. The existing Road Dividers consists of equal number of lanes. Usually, in morning and evening peak hours the opposite side of the Road Divider is generally underutilized. To overcome this, Smart Movable Road Divider is implemented where the divider is moved based on the density of the traffic using IR Sensors. If the density of the traffic is high on one side, the divider is moved to the other side. This calls for better utilization of existing resources like number of lanes available. Our aim is to formulate a mechanism of automated road divider that can shift lanes, so that we can have number of lanes in the direction of the rush. Each ambulance will be equipped with GPS and GSM modem which in case of emergency will send its GPS coordinates to the cloud server, which will then mark the shortest distance from its present location to the hospital viathe place from where the emergency call has been raised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic diversity among 26 rice genotypes was investigated using RAPD markers. The genotypes were screened for the leaf blastdisease reaction at two different environments. The average number of alleles amplified per primer was 9.03. Average number ofpolymorphic bands per primer was 6.80 with average polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.264. Clustering based ondendrogram revealed two major clusters and 5 sub clusters. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) revealed three major groups.The first coordinate does not discriminate any of the genotypes based on the geographical origin, but the second and thirdcoordinates differentiated South East Asian and South Asian genotypes clearly. Genetic diversity analysis of rice genotypes withRAPD marker system and phenotypic screening for blast resistance revealed that White Ponni (susceptible) and Moroberekan(resistant) were one among the genetically distant and contrasting parents for leaf blast resistance. There is no cleardiscrimination of the markers to distinguish leaf blast resistant and susceptible genotypes into separate clusters by the principalcoordinate analysis.

Gymnema sylvestre, a potential anti-diabetic medicinal plant, is used in many herbal drug formulations. The medicinal properties have been credited to the presence of gymnemic acid, which is effective in controlling blood glucose and lipid levels in the body. Molecular and biochemical variations of seven populations of G. sylvestre were investigated using DNA markers and phytochemical fingerprints of gymnemic acid content. Results obtained through these techniques were used in a comparative analysis and revealed a correlation between genetic variations and biochemical content analysis. Thirteen primers were used for RAPD-PCR analysis revealing 112 bands, of which 62 were found to be polymorphic. The percentage of polymorphic bands detected ranged from 11.1 to 84.6% with an average of 54.2%. The average number of amplified bands per primer was 8.62 while the mean number of polymorphic bands per primer was 5.42. A dendrogram of the genetic similarities among the populations was constructed using the genetic distance coefficients and the seven accessions were clustered into four major groups. The total gymnemic acid content level varied significantly among these groups from 3.84 to 7.12 mg g-1 DW. A principle coordinate analysis confirmed the results of clustering. Maximum yield of gymnemic acid content (7.12 mg g-1 DW) was recorded with L7 accession. Results suggest that there might be a positive correlation between genetic makeup and gymnemic acid content; however, this has to be further investigated by using other molecular approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A zinc‐bromine redox flow battery (RFB) is highly suitable for high‐energy storage due to its decoupled energy and power generation. However, the poor kinetics and poor reversible behavior of Br2/Br− redox activity are some of the significant barriers, and as a result, the flow system delivers low power density. To increase the efficiency of the flow cell, in the present work, bimetallic catalysts are deposited on 3D graphite felt network and are used in the positive electrode for enhancing the kinetics of the Br2/Br− redox reaction. The platinum–nickel (PtNi) bimetallic composition is optimized, and the highly improved performances are investigated using half‐cell and flow‐cell assembly. The redox kinetics parameters are improved due to the high electro‐catalytic nature of the heat‐treated Ni‐rich PtNi coating on the graphite felt (GF) and the flow cell is operated up to 140 mA cm−2. The flow cell with Pt0.5Ni1@GF delivers an impressive ever‐best power density of around 1550 mW cm−2. The cycle life shows excellent stability up to 300 cycles with coulombic, voltage, and energy efficiency of 97%, 86%, and 83%, respectively. Thus, the present work offers a promising approach to developing effective electrode materials for obtaining a superpower RFB system.

Glymphatic transport, defined as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) peri-arterial inflow into brain, and interstitial fluid (ISF) clearance, is reduced in the aging brain. However, it is unclear whether glymphatic transport affects the distribution of soluble Aβ in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In wild type mice, we show that Aβ40 (fluorescently labeled Aβ40 or unlabeled Aβ40), was distributed from CSF to brain, via the peri-arterial space, and associated with neurons. In contrast, Aβ42 was mostly restricted to the peri-arterial space due mainly to its greater propensity to oligomerize when compared to Aβ40. Interestingly, pretreatment with Aβ40 in the CSF, but not Aβ42, reduced CSF transport into brain. In APP/PS1 mice, a model of AD, with and without extensive amyloid-β deposits, glymphatic transport was reduced, due to the accumulation of toxic Aβ species, such as soluble oligomers. CSF-derived Aβ40 co-localizes with existing endogenous vascular and parenchymal amyloid-β plaques, and thus, may contribute to the progression of both cerebral amyloid angiopathy and parenchymal Aβ accumulation. Importantly, glymphatic failure preceded significant amyloid-β deposits, and thus, may be an early biomarker of AD. By extension, restoring glymphatic inflow and ISF clearance are potential therapeutic targets to slow the onset and progression of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Biosynthesis of AgNPs (72–98nm) using leaf extracts of Naringi crenulata leaf via microwave irradiation method was established. [•] FTIR, XRD results confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds in leaf extracts responsible for reduction of AgNO3. [•] Synthesized AgNPs based ointment showed potential wound healing activity in experimental rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the extent of participation and factors responsible for participation of beneficiaries in Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu state. Ex-post- facto research design was used in this study. The study is based on 120 respondents drawn by simple random sampling method from eight Gram Panchayats which had more MGNREGA beneficiaries selected from two randomly selected blocks in the district. The respondents were interviewed personally by a well-structured and pretested interview schedule. The overall participation of the beneficiaries was in medium level. Majority of the beneficiaries had regular participation in Grama sabha, open project meeting and meetings conducted by Social Audit Committee. Economic and personal factors had influenced majority of the beneficiaries to take part in the MGNREGA activities followed by organizational factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using Caesalpinia coriaria aqueous extract. [•] Synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, SEM, EDX, XRD and FT-IR. [•] Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against clinically isolated human pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A facile synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted carbazoles through electrocyclization of 2,3-divinylindoles using FeCl3 in DMF at reflux is reported. The methodology was found to be applicable for smooth transformation of 3-aryl-2-vinylindole as well as 2-styrylbiphenyl into the respective benzo[c]carbazole and phenanthrene.

Highlights: [•] The present report describes a rapid and efficient protocol for direct multiple shoot bud regeneration from axillary node explants of Gymnema sylvestre. [•] This in vitro propagation method could be used for production of uniform Gymnema sylvestre plants in a relatively short period and with high multiplication rate. [•] This protocol can be utilized for commercial scale propagation and conservation of this important medicinal plant species. [•] The regeneration protocol described in this study will be highly useful for large scale production of this important medicinal plant to the pharmaceutical industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Stevia rebaudiana is a valuable medicinal plant species and it is being used for the treatment of diabetes. Currently, there is a high demand for raw material of this medicinal herb due to ever increasing diabetes disorder among the population. In order to meet the increased demand an efficient in vitro propagation of S. rebaudiana was established. Nodal explants collected from the field were cultured on MS basal medium fortified with different concentrations of BAP (0.5–3.0mg/l) and KIN (0.5–3.0mg/l) individually for shoot bud induction. In vitro derived nodal buds were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations (0.5–3.0mg/l) of BAP and KIN for multiple shoot bud regeneration. In the second experiment, in vitro derived buds were placed on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of BAP (0.5–3.0mg/l) in combination with 0.5mg/l IAA or IBA or NAA for shoot bud multiplication. The highest frequency (94.50%) of multiple shoot regeneration with maximum number of shoots (15.69 shoots/explant) was noticed on MS medium supplemented with 1.0mg/l BAP. For large scale plant production, in vitro derived nodal bud explants were cultured on MS medium fortified with 1.0mg/l BAP, in which about 123 shoots/explant were obtained after three subcultures on the same media composition. Elongated shoots (>2cm) dissected out from the in vitro proliferated shoot clumps were cultured on half-strength MS medium containing different concentrations of NAA (0.1–0.5mg/l) and/or MS medium fortified with various concentrations (0.5–2.0mg/l) of auxins (NAA, IAA and IBA) for root induction. Highest frequency of rooting (96%) was noticed on half-strength MS medium augmented with 0.4mg/l NAA. The rooted plantlets were successfully transferred into plastic cups containing sand and soil in the ratio of 1:2 and subsequently established in the greenhouse. The present in vitro propagation protocol would facilitate an alternative method for rapid and large-scale production of this important antidiabetic medicinal plant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we address the problem of cell partitioning in VLSI design and layout. After reviewing the earlier methods, we present an alternative probabilistic approach through stochastic function on hypergraphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the utility function approach to the cell placement problem, this paper presents an alternative method based on renewal-reward process, which is a stochastic process under continuous time and discrete value. An asymptotic behavior of this process helps to solve the cell placement on a very large scale and integrated (VLSI) design architecture. It is concluded that this agrees with earlier results obtained through utility function approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is a common malady affecting elderly men throughout the world, and it is the most common cause of voiding dysfunctions in man. The disease becomes prevalent, as the mean age of the population increases. In BPH the glandular cells and myofibroblasts of periurethral and transition zones proliferate excessively. This excessive growth of tissue mass physically compresses the urethra, leading to urinary obstruction and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Another major factor that contributes to LUTS in BPH is the increase in smooth muscle tone, a dynamic component. Contraction of the prostate gland is mainly under the control of the autonomic system and is mediated through α-adrenoceptors. In addition to α[sub 1] -adrenoceptors, there are many other components that influence growth and contraction of the prostate gland, resulting in the development of BPH and LUTS. The prostate gland is contracted on stimulating 5-HT, endothelin, tachykinin, and muscarinic cholinergic receptors. Growth of the prostate gland is under the control of androgens, endothelin growth factor, vasoactive intestinal peptide, nerve growth factor, and growth hormone. The combination of excessive growth and the tone produced by different components results in LUTS and BPH. α[sub 1] -Adrenoceptor antagonists were successfully used in the treatment of BPH to relieve the LUTS. The high selectivity of α[sub 1A] -adrenoceptor antagonists reflects the uroselectivity. The uroselective compounds like terazosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, and alfuzosin are in clinical use. Other new potent uroselective compounds, which are analogs of nigulidipine, 5-methyl-urapidil, or naftopidil, are in clinical trials. In addition to α-antagonists, antiandrogens (5α-reductase inhibitors) and polyherbal formulations are used to treat BPH. The success of BPH treatment lies in the development of new chemical entities which are efficacious as well as more uroselective and hence have least side effects.Copyright © 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The cause of neuronal death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is uncertain but mitochondrial dysfunction may play an important role. Ketones promote mitochondrial energy production and membrane stabilization. Results SOD1-G93A transgenic ALS mice were fed a ketogenic diet (KD) based on known formulations for humans. Motor performance, longevity, and motor neuron counts were measured in treated and disease controls. Because mitochondrial dysfunction plays a central role in neuronal cell death in ALS, we also studied the effect that the principal ketone body, D-β-3 hydroxybutyrate (DBH), has on mitochondrial ATP generation and neuroprotection. Blood ketones were > 3.5 times higher in KD fed animals compared to controls. KD fed mice lost 50% of baseline motor performance 25 days later than disease controls. KD animals weighed 4.6 g more than disease control animals at study endpoint; the interaction between diet and change in weight was significant (p = 0.047). In spinal cord sections obtained at the study endpoint, there were more motor neurons in KD fed animals (p = 0.030). DBH prevented rotenone mediated inhibition of mitochondrial complex I but not malonate inhibition of complex II. Rotenone neurotoxicity in SMI-32 immunopositive motor neurons was also inhibited by DBH. Conclusion This is the first study showing that diet, specifically a KD, alters the progression of the clinical and biological manifestations of the G93A SOD1 transgenic mouse model of ALS. These effects may be due to the ability of ketone bodies to promote ATP synthesis and bypass inhibition of complex I in the mitochondrial respiratory chain.