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A monthly rainfall dataset for India at country, regional and meteorological sub-divisional scales was developed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) based on a fixed network of 306 rain gauges. This dataset has been constructed when long period data was not available at many locations and there was not much computing power available. This data has been used worldwide for rainfall analysis over India. In this study, this rainfall dataset has been compared with a larger network of rain gauges maintained by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for the southwest monsoon period of 1901–2010 at meteorological sub-divisional scale. Two different rain gauge networks can give rise to divergent estimates of rainfall, in general from differences in network density or location of individual rain gauges in each network, assuming measurement errors have small effect. Although mean monthly and seasonal monsoon rainfall and their interannual variability in both IITM and IMD datasets are similar, IITM dataset shows larger difference from IMD data for several meteorological sub-divisions. The long-term trends and frequency of occurrence of deficient and excess monsoon rainfall also show considerable differences between these two rainfall datasets. Data from a sparse network is not representative at meteorological sub-divisions associated with rather larger spatial variations in the southwest monsoon rainfall. For instance, IITM dataset has 11 rain gauges compared to 147 IMD rain gauges over a meteorological sub-division—South Interior Karnataka, and mean absolute difference in monthly monsoon rainfall estimates becomes about 25% when compared for rather shorter period using station data. It is also demonstrated that inclusion of additional rain gauges substantially improves the quality of IITM monthly rainfall estimates over this specific meteorological sub-division.

ABSTRACTSpaceborne precipitation radars provide an unprecedented opportunity to study three-dimensional structure of precipitation, particularly over the open ocean where in-situobservations are rather meagre. In this study, instantaneous surface precipitation characteristics and their vertical structures during the tropical cyclones (TCs) over the North Indian Ocean (NIO) between 2014 and 2022 have been analysed using the dual-frequency precipitation radar onboard the Global Precipitation Measurement Core Observatory. Although stratiform precipitation accounts for more than 70% of total TC surface precipitation area, convective precipitation contributes about half of the total TC surface precipitation amount over the NIO. About 90% of stratiform TC precipitation area yields surface precipitation of less than 10 mm/hour. The vertical structures of stratiform and convective TC precipitation vary with surface precipitation intensity and have nearly similar characteristics over both basins of the NIO. This preliminary quantitative TC precipitation analysis would be useful for better understanding of precipitation processes during TCs over the NIO, and for further advancement in numerical models through improved parameterization schemes for TC precipitation forecasting.

Rev1–Polζ-dependent translesion synthesis (TLS) of DNA is crucial for maintaining genome integrity. To elucidate the mechanism by which the two polymerases cooperate in TLS, we determined the cryogenic electron microscopic structure of the Saccharomyces cerevisiaeRev1–Polζ holocomplex in the act of DNA synthesis (3.53 Å). We discovered that a composite N-helix-BRCT module in Rev1 is the keystone of Rev1–Polζ cooperativity, interacting directly with the DNA template–primer and with the Rev3 catalytic subunit of Polζ. The module is positioned akin to the polymerase-associated domain in Y-family TLS polymerases and is set ideally to interact with PCNA. We delineate the full extent of interactions that the carboxy-terminal domain of Rev1 makes with Polζ and identify potential new druggable sites to suppress chemoresistance from first-line chemotherapeutics. Collectively, our results provide fundamental new insights into the mechanism of cooperativity between Rev1 and Polζ in TLS.

Circular economy draws attention as a macro-level sustainability approach that can pave the way for a sustainable future. Agroecosystems in city peripheries undergo a range of transformations in terms of environmental quality, cropping patterns, and practices. It is important to understand the kind of changes influencing the functioning of agroecosystems which are pertinent to strategize improvement in circularity of resource flow in terms of production, consumption, inflow, and outflow of materials. The existing literature lacks assessment of these transitional systems and comparison across rural, peri-urban, and urban agroecosystems. This study attempted to analyze the shifts of cultivation patterns from traditional to market-oriented crops and production, consumption, and outflow pattern of food resources in three different zones of a landscape located in the periphery of Bengaluru. The cultivation of Oryza Sativaand oilseed crops witnessed the highest reduction by more than 91% followed by legumes and millets and particularly Eleusine coracana(60%). While the cultivation of market-oriented crops such as vegetables, Mangifera indica, and Vitis vinifera had witnessed an increase of 55%, 56%, 122% and 200%, respectively. Furthermore, the study identifies the scope for enhancing the ecological and economic sustainability of the city periphery. The results exhibit that the intensive horticulture practices in urban and peri-urban zones lead to linear resource flow while the rural zone still has a significant production for self-consumption with traditional practice. Rural zone also shows better resource management on farm as well as in household which places the agroecosystem in a better state of circular economy. The study provides insights for policymakers and stakeholders to understand the interplay of economic, environmental, and social aspects with respect to the influence of urban development for better utilization of local resources.

In rock drilling applications, abrasion causes wear in inserts and hostile working conditions cause damage to other bit components. The effects of physico-mechanical properties of rock on the tool wear are investigated by several researchers in the past. So, it becomes imperative to exhibit good scalability of rock properties by segregating rock samples having similar properties for natural homogeneous rock property groupings. The aim of this work is to segregate groups with similar type of rock properties and assign them into a cluster. This work considers a machine learning based hierarchical clustering approach to segregate groups of rock with similar traits. The results obtained from this study initiate a conversation on the proper choice of rock and tool material for doing laboratory studies using wear test apparatus. The analysis's findings map the distinct qualities of the rock for different mining areas by classifying groups of rocks with comparable characteristics.

Composite structures using Steel Reinforced Concrete (SRC) are increasingly being praised for outperforming standard steel or reinforced concrete structures in terms of strength, stiffness, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness. The interfacial bond strength of steel and concrete is critical for establishing composite action in SRC structures, but correct computation remains difficult. This study addresses the above limitations by employing Ensemble Learning Techniques (ELTs), a subset of Machine Learning, focusing on the application of Decision Tree, AdaBoost, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boost algorithms. The study improves engineering knowledge of bond performance by introducing a basic set of input parameters for SRC columns. Furthermore, the Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) approach is included to enhance the interpretability of the model by providing insights into parameter impacts. The analysis of EL models shows that XGBoost outperforms other models in both training and validation, exhibiting strong correlation coefficients and perfect alignment with benchmarks. Sequential analysis, a novel approach for establishing ELT’s predictive power, further highlights XGBoost’s world-class performance. SHAP analysis identifies “relative concrete coverage” and “relative side coverage” as factors that affect the prediction of bond strength. Overall, this study significantly contributes to engineering knowledge by demonstrating the effectiveness of Ensemble Learning Techniques in predicting bond strength for SRC structures, offering a valuable and practical design tool.

In this study, Yoon et al. discover that Werner syndrome protein (WRN) and WRN-interacting protein 1 (WRNIP1) assemble with Rev1 and Y family DNA polymerases (Polη, Polι, or Polκ) upon DNA damage to facilitate error-free translesion DNA synthesis. This role requires WRN's exonuclease function to afford higher fidelity during replication through DNA lesions, which is an essential mechanism that protects against genomic instability.

The present study introduces optimized machine learning (OML) models for predicting the ultimate axial load-carrying capacity of square concrete-filled steel tube (SCFST) columns. The structural performance of concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) members, specifically SCFST columns has gained attention for their superior properties in construction. This study establishes a comprehensive comparative analysis of a hyper-tuned artificial neural network coupled with an improved particle swarm optimization (ANN–IPSO) model to predict the structural behaviour of SCFST columns, considering factors, such as shape, length and height of columns, lateral dimensions of columns, strength of steel and concrete, and thickness of steel tube. The performance of the novel OML model is further compared with conventional algorithms, such as particle swarm optimization (PSO) and grey wolf optimization (GWO). The ANN–IPSO model consistently outperforms other models, demonstrating superior predictive ability and accuracy during both training and validating phases. Furthermore, a novel “Score Analysis” technique is applied to validate the performance of predictive models, showcasing the balanced approach of the IPSO algorithm when coupled with ANN. The study concludes by affirming the consistent superiority of the ANN–IPSO model in predicting the ultimate load-carrying capacity of SCFST columns, expanding the knowledge in engineering studies. The results of the study contribute to engineering knowledge by introducing novel applications of improved machine learning algorithms and emphasising the robustness of the ANN–IPSO model to predict the ultimate load-carrying capacity of columns.

This study aims to identify the most suitable machine learning model for predicting the permeability and half-cell potentiometer test readings of hybrid concrete containing varying percentages of blast furnace slag and fly ash when exposed to a chloride-rich environment. The mix design adhered to IS 10262:2019 standards, and hybrid concrete beam specimens, incorporating protruding reinforcement bars, were fabricated with dimensions of 150 × 150 × 700 mm. Subsequently, these specimens underwent a 28-day curing process in water with 3.5% NaCl concentration, simulating chloride exposure that could induce corrosion by infiltrating the concrete towards embedded steel bars. The permeability and the compressive strength of the hybrid concrete were assessed by casting 36 cubes of 150 mm size after 28 days of curing. Half-cell potentiometer tests were conducted on the beam samples casted of hybrid concrete which were subjected to a chloride environment to generate the datasets used for the machine learning model to predict the permeability in concrete. The permeability values were predicted and compared using 3 machine learning models, i.e. Adaboost, random forest, and XGBoost. AdaBoost, in particular, demonstrated remarkable accuracy, showing strong correlations between the observed and predicted values. The findings of the study correlate and simplify the process of corrosion detection in concrete, ultimately aiding in the development of more accurate and robust corrosion monitoring systems.

ABSTRACTIntroductionRNA interference (RNAi) using small interfering RNA (siRNA) is a promising strategy to control many genetic disorders by targeting the mRNA of underlying genes and degrade it. However, the delivery of siRNA to targeted organs is highly restricted by several intracellular and extracellular barriers.Areas coveredThis review discusses various design strategies developed to overcome siRNA delivery obstacles. The applied techniques involve chemical modification, bioconjugation to specific ligands, and carrier-mediated strategies. Nanotechnology-based systems like liposomes, niosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), dendrimers, and polymeric nanoparticles (PNs) are also discussed.Expert opinionAlthough the mechanism of siRNA as a gene silencer is well-established, only a few products are available as therapeutics. There is a great need to develop and establish siRNA delivery systems that protects siRNAs and delivers them efficiently to the desired sitesare efficient and capable of targeted delivery. Several diseases are reported to be controlled by siRNA at their early stages. However, their targeted delivery is a daunting challenge.

Impacts of climate change on snow cover, permafrost and glaciers at varied elevations are wide-ranging and well-known. Melting water from glaciers forms glacial lakes; where, under the changing climate and accelerating glacial retreats have been a prime cause of glacial lake growth and outbursts. Indian Himalayan Region has also witnessed those impacts on glacial lakes with several evidences of glacial lake outbursts in recent years affecting people and ecosystems. Thus, to provide an understanding of geoclimatic environment and glacial lakes of the region, this article has attempted to look into the spatio-temporal changes of climatic conditions and physical landscape in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in Indian Himalayan Region. In this study, mapping of glacial lakes in the district has been done to look into the aspects of associated hazards. The assessment has been done using historical trend analysis of climatic parameters, land surface temperature (LST) and physical landscape change in the study area. Seismic activities of the region have also been taken into account to understand the vulnerability of glacial lakes. The results indicate dynamic environmental conditions with visible physical landscape change; where, an increase in built-up area by 541.57 ​km2, a decrease in dense forest and fallow land by 76.96 ​km2and 364.09 ​km2respectively over a period of two decades (2000–2020) have been observed. Minimum temperature has been gradually increasing by 0.68 ​°C per decade. The geospatial analysis provides identification of ∼500 glacial lakes, where 40.92% are situated at 5000–6000 ​m elevation. It is understood that glacial lakes of the study area are prone to produce disasters in the region because of changing climate and active seismicity, and lakes at higher elevation are highly susceptible to GLOF (Glacial Lakes Outburst Flood). Moreover, prevalence of large number of supraglacial lakes in the study region which are dynamic in nature, makes the area more vulnerable to hazards. The very old supraglacial lakes in high altitude region need attention and detailed study in terms of their changing characteristics and stability. Anthropogenic interventions in the area are contributing towards higher intensity of impacts on human and resources. It is suggestive that further development activities should consider the potential hazards and vulnerable zones in Himalaya. The disaster risk reduction strategies should prioritize development of early warning systems in the region.

Yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi), a marine species, has recently been cultured in recirculation aquaculture systems (RAS). A challenge regarding faecal waste management of farming yellowtail kingfish in RAS is their poor faecal integrity. One approach to improve faecal waste management is to enhance nutrient digestibility and thus faecal waste production, which can be achieved through the addition of emulsifiers to the feed. We assessed the effect of emulsifier supplementation on nutrient digestibility, bile acid balance, faecal waste production and characteristics of yellowtail kingfish. This was investigated by using four experimental diets differing in emulsifier supplementation, where fish were fed restrictively (36 days). One diet without emulsifying supplements served as control. Three types of emulsifiers were tested (1) E484, composed of Glyceryl polyethyleneglycol ricinoleate; (2) Lysophospholipids (LPL) combined with lecithin; (3) Sodium taurocholate (STC). The results showed that the STC diet numerically improved fat digestibility and had a positive bile acid balance, which indicated an accumulation of dietary bile acids in the body bile acid pool. Despite a negative bile acid balance, the LPL diet improved fat digestibility as well. A negative bile acid balance shows that the daily amount of faecal bile acid loss exceeds the daily amount of dietary bile acid intake. Fish fed the E484 diet had more faeces removed than the other diets, whilst non-recovered faeces or faecal characteristics were not affected. In conclusion, the current study shows that supplementing both sodium taurocholate (STC), and the combination of Lysophospholipids (LPL) and lecithin can improve fat digestibility in yellowtail kingfish, but emulsifier supplementation does not improve faecal waste management.

In this study, Yoon et al. set out to study translesion synthesis (TLS) mechanisms in normal versus cancer cells. Using reporter assays and knockdown cells, the authors report that in normal cells, TLS through cisplatin intrastrand cross-links is promoted by Polη- or Polι- dependent pathways, both of which require Rev1 as a scaffolding component. In contrast, cancer cells require Rev1-Polζ. The authors also show that the Rev1 inhibitor JH-RE-06 abrogates Rev1's ability to function with Y family Pols, leading to loss of TLS in various contexts and increased sensitivity to cisplatin in normal cells.

Corrosion at elevated temperature is a serious problem in running thermal power plants because of the use of low-grade fuels that contain substantial amounts of sulphur, vanadium, sodium etc. This article reports the high-temperature corrosion of weld metal and heat-affected zone (HAZ) of shielded metal arc-welding (SMAW) weldment in GrA1 steel in a molten salt (Na2SO4–60% V2O5) environment at 900°C under cyclic conditions. The thermogravimetric technique was used to observe the kinetics of corrosion. The corrosion products formed on weld metal and HAZ of SMAW welded steel were characterized by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray diffraction pattern. Weld metal was found to oxidize at a higher rate than those of HAZ due to the presence of sodium and sulphur in the inner oxide scale as confirmed by EDX, and this leads to high corrosion rate (in terms of weight gain).

DNA polymerase ζ (Polζ) belongs to the same B-family as high-fidelity replicative polymerases, yet is specialized for the extension reaction in translesion DNA synthesis (TLS). Despite its importance in TLS, the structure of Polζ is unknown. We present cryo-EM structures of the SaccharomycescerevisiaePolζ holoenzyme in the act of DNA synthesis (3.1 Å) and without DNA (4.1 Å). Polζ displays a pentameric ring-like architecture, with catalytic Rev3, accessory Pol31‚ Pol32 and two Rev7 subunits forming an uninterrupted daisy chain of protein–protein interactions. We also uncover the features that impose high fidelity during the nucleotide-incorporation step and those that accommodate mismatches and lesions during the extension reaction. Collectively, we decrypt the molecular underpinnings of Polζ’s role in TLS and provide a framework for new cancer therapeutics.

As biomass becomes increasingly important as an energy source, predicting its higher heating value using more efficient algorithms based on schedule information, such as imminent analysis, enables timely decisions on bioenergy usage. A random search optimiser is used to describe higher heating values of raw biomass using regression analysis methodologies based on experimentally discovered properties. A unique artificial smart model based on an intriguing approach was developed as well as an artificial neural network with a random search optimiser for determining the higher heating value of raw biomass. The current study and findings include the importance of each physicochemical parameter on raw biomass higher heating value predictions using this unique prototype. According to the new model used in this scenario, the estimated coefficients of determination and correlation coefficients resulting from the data analysis are 0.7554 and 0.9999, respectively, when the new model is applied to the analysis of the data. The importance of employing learning machines may be seen in the appraisal of energy resources for energy systems to develop a bioenergy-specific algorithm. The unanimity between the recorded data and the regression archetype or artificial neural network on which it was built showed a high degree of efficiency. There was a strong correlation between the random search/artificial neural network-based method and the random search/regression-based method regarding how well the model fit observed data, indicating that the second method exhibited the best results.

The effect of carbohydrate source on nutrient digestibility, bile acid balance, faecal waste production and characteristics were investigated in yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi). A starch diet and two non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) diets with different NSP sources were used in this study. A diet containing 12% gelatinized wheat flour as the starch diet, and two diets with distinct non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) sources: soybean hulls (SH) and sugar beet pulp (SBP) at an inclusion level of 10%, were studied. Each diet was tested in triplicate fish tanks. To determine if feeding level affects diet, restricted and satiation feeding levels were used. After four weeks of restrictive feeding, fish were fed satiation for two weeks. The dietary effect on nutrient digestibility and faecal waste production was dependent on feeding level, whereas the dietary effect on faecal waste characterises was independent of feeding level. SBP diet protein and fat digestibility was highest during restricted and satiation feeding. Satiation feeding reduced nutrient digestibility in all diets, most pronounced in SH and least in SBP. Faecal bile acid loss did not explain fat digestibility differences between the three diets. Both NSP diets increased faecal waste production but decreased bile acid content, resulting in similar bile acid loss to the starch diet. SBP had the highest faecal removal efficiency and the lowest non-removed faeces despite high waste production SH resulted in similar amount of non-removed faeces compared to the starch diet. To conclude, NSP type affected nutrient digestibility, bile acid balance, faecal waste production, and faecal characteristics differently than starch in yellowtail kingfish. Starch resulted in higher FCR and thus lower growth performance in yellowtail kingfish compared to NSP despite higher organic matter digestibility. Adding NSP to their RAS diet may improve faecal integrity without affecting macronutrient digestibility. However, different NSP forms affect nutrient digestion and faeces integrity differently.

The adoption of information technology shared services concept for enhanced resource management in manufacturing industries is discussed.

DNA polymerase δ (Polδ) plays pivotal roles in eukaryotic DNA replication and repair. Polδ is conserved from yeast to humans, and mutations in human Polδ have been implicated in various cancers. Saccharomyces cerevisiaePolδ consists of catalytic Pol3 and the regulatory Pol31 and Pol32 subunits. Here, we present the near atomic resolution (3.2 Å) cryo-EM structure of yeast Polδ holoenzyme in the act of DNA synthesis. The structure reveals an unexpected arrangement in which the regulatory subunits (Pol31 and Pol32) lie next to the exonuclease domain of Pol3 but do not engage the DNA. The Pol3 C-terminal domain contains a 4Fe−4S cluster and emerges as the keystone of Polδ assembly. We also show that the catalytic and regulatory subunits rotate relative to each other and that this is an intrinsic feature of the Polδ architecture. Collectively, the structure provides a framework for understanding DNA transactions at the replication fork.

Observations of halogen oxides, ozone, meteorological parameters, and physical and biogeochemical water column measurements were made in the Indian Ocean and its marine boundary layer as a part of the Second International Indian Ocean Expedition (IIOE‐2). The expedition took place on board the oceanographic research vessel Sagar Nidhiduring 4–22 December 2015 from Goa, India, to Port Louis, Mauritius. Observations of mixed layer depth, averaged temperature, salinity, and nitrate concentrations were used to calculate predicted iodide concentrations in the seawater. The inorganic iodine ocean‐atmosphere flux (hypoiodous acid [HOI] and molecular iodine [I2]) was computed using the predicted iodide concentrations, measured atmospheric ozone, and wind speed. Iodine oxide (IO) mixing ratios peaked at 0.47 ± 0.29 pptv (parts per trillion by volume) in the remote open ocean environment. The estimated iodide concentrations and HOI and I2fluxes peaked at 200/500 nM, 410/680 nmol·m−2·day−1, and 20/80 nmol·m−2·day−1, respectively, depending on the parameterization used. The calculated fluxes for HOI and I2were higher closer to the Indian subcontinent; however, atmospheric IO was only observed above the detection limit in the remote open ocean environment. We use NO2observations to show that titration of IO by NO2is the main reason for this result. These observations show that inorganic iodine fluxes and atmospheric IO show similar trends in the Indian Ocean marine boundary layer, but the impact of inorganic iodine emissions on iodine chemistry is buffered in elevated NOxenvironments, even though the estimated oceanic iodine fluxes are higher. NOxtitration buffers atmospheric concentrations of iodine oxideFluxes of inorganic iodine determine iodine oxide levels outside elevated NOxregionsA strong gradient in iodine chemistry is observed from close to the coast toward the remote ocean environment

ASTM-SA210-Grade A1 boiler tube steels were welded by shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and tungsten inert gas processes. The oxidation behaviour of the welded steels was evaluated under cyclic conditions at 900°C. Visual observations and thermogravimetric data were measured at the end of each cycle. Finally, the scale was analysed using X-ray Diffraction, Scanning-Electron Microscopy/Energy-Dispersive X-Ray studies. A SEM Back scattered image analysis of the cross-section of the oxide scale thickness has been made to measure the oxide scales formed over the welded steels. SMAW welded steel showed the more oxidation rate (in terms of weight gain) as compared to TIG welded at the test temperature of 900°C and it was due to the formation of more cracks in oxide scale, and a thick oxide scale was found on HAZ and weld region.

Here, Yoon et al. show that translesion synthesis (TLS) opposite 1,N6-ethenodeoxyadenosine (ε dA), which disrupts Watson–Crick base pairing, occurs via Polι/Polζ- , Rev1-, and Pol θ-dependent pathways. Rev1 polymerase and Pol θ conduct TLS opposite ε dA via alternative error-prone pathways, and in contrast to extremely error-prone TLS opposite ε dA by purified Pol θ, it performs predominantly error-free TLS in human cells.

This article describes how in less than two decades, internet in mobile phones has grown from a curiosity to an essential element of modern life. Although, this mind-boggling growth has no doubt facilitated international commerce, trade, and travel, it is also being used in the planning and coordination of criminal activities. These types of attacks are often referred to as socio-technical attacks. These attacks are targeted at these sensitive points to society or national security and may have a devastating impact. Often, organized, sponsored, and trained groups are involved to disguise the intelligence system, deployed for the detection of such attacks. Prior detection of such attacks may reduce its impact. In this article, the authors have developed an efficient model to detect malicious node in huge and complex corpus of data associated with call detail record (CDR). This model analyses CDRs to identify covert nodes operating within society for malicious intent.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of mortality across the globe. Over the years, various drug formulations and delivery methods have been tested for cardiac repair. Milrinone (MRN) is a widely known cardiac inotrope drug used for the treatment of congestive heart failure in patients, however, its efficacy is limited. This study is the first to report the design of a novel MRN-nanoformulation using human serum albumin nanoparticles (HSA-NPs). The HSA-NPs exhibit promising drug delivery characteristics, such as target specificity, nonimmunogenicity, biocompatibility, and enhanced bioavailability. This article describes a MRN-nanoformulation design for in vitro drug release, cellular uptake, biocompatibility, and other features. The MRN-nanoformulation was prepared by the ethanol desolvation technique and key parameters were optimized to obtain a desired particle size of 154.2 ± 5.8 nm, zeta potential of −29.5 ± 2.9 mV, and a drug encapsulation efficiency of 41.1 ± 1.7%. Molecular docking studies have revealed that MRN binds in the hydrophobic cavity of HSA, which has also been indicated by circular dichroism and enzyme-mediated drug release studies in the presence of trypsin, pepsin, proteinase K, protease, and cathepsin D. The intracellular uptake of fluorescently tagged MRN-HSA-NPs using HUVEC and H9c2 cells was evaluated by flow cytometry. The nanoparticle toxicity results indicated that MRN-HSA-NPs show significantly lower cytotoxicity and higher cell viability (P< 0.0001) as compared to the MRN-lactate drug in HUVEC (61.6 ± 3.7% vs 36.2 ± 2.9%) and H9c2 (58.8 ± 5.7% vs 18.8 ± 4.9%) cells. These studies indicate that the novel MRN-nanoformulation offers better drug delivery procedures than currently used methods and has potential in treatment of congestive heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases.

Background: Lung cancer is the most common cancer in men worldwide. The incidence continues to rise in both males and females with wide geographical variability. Lung cancer has a high fatality rate. Early detection of lung cancer has better treatment outcome as early lung cancers can be operated. But the diagnosis of lung cancer is delayed due to many factors. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the current clinico-pathological profile and epidemiological trends in lung cancer patients from a single tertiary care centre with emphasis on given on gender association and delay in detection due to misdiagnosis as tuberculosis. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the data of in-patients diagnosed as Primary lung cancer in the department of pulmonary medicine at SDSTRC& Rajiv Gandhi institute of chest diseases, Bengaluru, Karnataka from August 2015 to September 2017. Results: Lung cancer study is still a disease predominant in old age males. Smoking is one of the major causative factors. In Non smokers, females and young age group (<40yrs) adenocarcinoma was commoner than squammous cell carcinoma.17 patients (16.5%) were mis-diagnosed as tuberculosis before the definitive diagnosis was made. Conclusion: Due to widespread prevalence of tuberculosis, lung cancer poses a diagnostic challenge. A significant number of lung cancer patients in our country still continue to be misdiagnosed as tuberculosis. Poor diagnostic resources and economic constraints along with low clinical suspicion lead to delay in diagnosis of lung cancer resulting in poor prognosis and survival.

Polyphosphate (polyP) is an essential chemical constituent of microbial cells, and is hypothesized to play important roles in the marine biogeochemistry of phosphorus. However, polyP has only rarely been measured in the oceans. Here, we present data on the distribution of polyP across a latitudinal transect in the tropical Indian Ocean. PolyP concentrations (quantified as molar equivalents of a synthetic polyP standard) and ratios of polyP to total particulate phosphorus (TPP) along the transect ranged between 3–7 nmol eq. L−1(polyP concentration) and 0.2–0.4 nmol eq. nmol−1(polyP : TPP ratio), which is very similar to values reported from the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre. Yet unlike in the North Pacific, soluble reactive phosphorus was depleted to low concentrations (≤ 0.03 μmol L−1), and alkaline phosphatase activity was relatively high (1–4 nmol P L−1h−1) along our cruise track. We attribute these results to the unique seasonal changes in iron and macronutrient supply in the Indian Ocean, which are caused by the monsoonal reversal in ocean currents. PolyP concentrations and polyP : TPP ratios decreased sharply with depth down to 150 m, suggesting that polyP was preferentially recycled relative to TPP, unlike in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre. We hypothesize that alkaline phosphatase exerts a significant control over marine polyP biogeochemistry.

The successful application of nucleic acid-based therapy for the treatment of various cancers is largely dependent on a safe and efficient delivery system. A dual-functionalized graphene oxide (GO)-based nanocarrier with the conjugation of aminated-polyethylene glycol (PEG-diamine) and octa-arginine (R8) for the intracellular delivery of nucleic acids is proposed. The functionalized sites are covalently co-conjugated and the PEG : R8 molar ratio is optimized at 10 : 1 to achieve a hydrocolloidally stable size of 252 ± 2.0 nm with an effective charge of +40.97 ± 1.05 and an amine-rich content of 10.87 ± 0.4 μmol g−1. The uptake of the nanocarrier in breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB 231, is investigated. The siRNA and pDNA condensation ability in the presence and absence of enzymes and the endosomal buffering capacity, as well as the intracellular localization of the gene/nanocarrier complex are also evaluated. Furthermore, the delivery of functional genes associated with the nanocarrier is assessed using c-Myc protein knockdown and EGFP gene expression. The effective uptake of the nanocarrier by the cells shows superior cytocompatibility, and protects the siRNA and pDNA against enzyme degradation while inhibiting their migration with N : P ratios of 10 and 5, respectively. The co-conjugation of PEG-diamine and the cationic cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) into the GO nanocarrier also provides a superior internalization efficacy of 85% in comparison with a commercially available transfection reagent. The c-Myc protein knockdown and EGFP expression, which are induced by the nanocarrier, confirm that the optimized PEG-diamine/R8-functionalized GO could effectively deliver pDNA and siRNA into the cells and interfere with gene expression.

Increase in the demand of products causes a company to change its manufacturing system from single-plant to multi-plant (or, multi-site) with an objective to gain competitive advantage in the global manufacturing scenario. Multi-site production and distribution (P-D) planning have been studied and practiced by the researchers and practitioners over the past two decades. A good size of literature has been published and trend is continuing. In the light of impact of multi-site manufacturing in gaining commercial advantage in global competition scenario, this review is dedicated to multi-site aggregate production planning (MSAPP) and multi-site aggregate P-D planning (MSAPDP). This review focuses on analysing the major research gaps and unaddressed areas of MSAPP/MSAPDP. It has been felt that switching from discrete to continuous and pure mathematical to simulation and agent based models along with consideration of economical and environmental aspects have become very important to effectively deal with real world MSAPP/MSAPDP problems.

Chronic suppurative otitis media can be recalcitrant and difficult to treat, particularly with the increasing occurrence of antibiotic resistance. Lactobacillus plantarumis a probiotic that has been shown to decrease S. aureusand P. aeruginosagrowth in wounds, making it a good candidate for the treatment of chronic suppurative otitis media. However, before it can be applied in the ear, its ototoxicity potential must be evaluated. A prospective controlled trial was conducted in a chinchilla animal model at the Animal care research facilities of the Montreal Children’s Hospital Research Institute to determine whether Lactobacillus plantarumis ototoxic when applied transtympanically. Ten chinchillas each had one ear randomly assigned to receive 109CFU/mL of Lactobacillus plantarumsolution, while the contralateral ear received saline. Auditory brainstem responses were measured bilaterally at 8, 20, 25 kHz before, at 7–10 days after application, and at 28 days after application of probiotic or saline. Facial nerve and vestibular function were assessed clinically. There were no statistically significant differences in hearing thresholds between control and experimental ears at 28 days after application. A difference of 11 dB was noted in the 25 kHz range at day 7–10, but resolved by day 28. No animals receiving probiotics developed vestibular nerve dysfunction. There was no histologic evidence of auditory hair cell damaged evidenced by scanning electron microscopy. Our study suggests that a single application of Lactobacillus plantarumat 109CFU/mL does not cause ototoxicity in a chinchilla animal model. These preliminary safety evaluations and the pathogen inhibitory effects of L. plantarumdemonstrated by previous studies present this probiotic as a candidate of interest for further investigation.

The Parsis are one of the smallest religious communities in the world. To understand the population structure and demographic history of this group in detail, we analyzed Indian and Pakistani Parsi populations using high-resolution genetic variation data on autosomal and uniparental loci (Y-chromosomal and mitochondrial DNA). Additionally, we also assayed mitochondrial DNA polymorphisms among ancient Parsi DNA samples excavated from Sanjan, in present day Gujarat, the place of their original settlement in India. Among present-day populations, the Parsis are genetically closest to Iranian and the Caucasus populations rather than their South Asian neighbors. They also share the highest number of haplotypes with present-day Iranians and we estimate that the admixture of the Parsis with Indian populations occurred ~1,200 years ago. Enriched homozygosity in the Parsi reflects their recent isolation and inbreeding. We also observed 48% South-Asian-specific mitochondrial lineages among the ancient samples, which might have resulted from the assimilation of local females during the initial settlement. Finally, we show that Parsis are genetically closer to Neolithic Iranians than to modern Iranians, who have witnessed a more recent wave of admixture from the Near East. Our results are consistent with the historically-recorded migration of the Parsi populations to South Asia in the 7th century and in agreement with their assimilation into the Indian sub-continent's population and cultural milieu "like sugar in milk". Moreover, in a wider context our results support a major demographic transition in West Asia due to the Islamic conquest.

ABSTRACTAccurate estimates of sea surface temperature (SST) are crucial for climate studies, numerical weather prediction and air–sea interactions. Following the launch of India’s advanced geostationary satellite – INSAT-3D with two thermal infrared split window channels in 2013, it is now possible to monitor land and ocean surfaces more reliably at higher spatiotemporal scale. In this article, an attempt has been made to develop a more accurate infrared-based cloud-free SST estimates over the tropical Indian Ocean by the synergistic use of geostationary INSAT-3D and polar-orbiting Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite measurements through a successive correction method. This method is applied primarily for the month of May 2015 at coarser spatial resolution and at a daily scale. Results are compared independently with multi-satellite SST estimates and also against in situobservations such as Argo floats and buoys. The merged SST product shows noticeable improvement over INSAT-3D-based estimates alone. Comparison of the merged SST product with Argo observations shows that the root mean square difference (RMSD) has been improved from 1.23 to 0.79 K, and bias and correlation are also significantly improved. Overall results indicate that the synergistic use of INSAT-3D and MODIS satellite observations has potential for more accurate SST estimation over the tropical Indian Ocean at finer temporal resolution and larger spatial coverage for several near-real time meteorological and oceanographic applications.

Reliable detection of freeze and thaw (FT) states is crucial for the terrestrial water cycle, biogeochemical transitions, carbon and methane feedback to the atmosphere, and for the surface energy budget and its associated impacts on the global climate system. This paper is novel in that for the first time a unique approach to examine the potential of passive microwave remotely sensed land emissivity and its added values of being free from the atmospheric effects and being sensitive to surface characteristics is being applied to the detection of FT states for latitudes north of 35°N. Since accurate characterizations of the soil state are highly dependent on land cover types, a novel threshold‐based approach specific to different land cover types is proposed for daily FT detection from the use of 3 years (August 2012 to July 2015) of the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer‐2 land emissivity estimates. Ground‐based soil temperature observations are used as reference to develop threshold values for FT states. Preliminary evaluation of the proposed approach with independent ground observations over Alaska for the year 2015 shows that the use of land emissivity estimates for high‐latitude FT detection is promising. Land emissivity shows a potential for detecting freeze and thaw statesA threshold method based on estimated emissivity values is suggested for each land cover typeSoil temperature is used to derive the algorithm instead of surface air temperature

Our understanding of the genetics of skin pigmentation has been largely skewed towards populations of European ancestry, imparting less attention to South Asian populations, who behold huge pigmentation diversity. Here, we investigate skin pigmentation variation in a cohort of 1,167 individuals in the Middle Gangetic Plain of the Indian subcontinent. Our data confirm the association of rs1426654 with skin pigmentation among South Asians, consistent with previous studies, and also show association for rs2470102 single nucleotide polymorphism. Our haplotype analyses further help us delineate the haplotype distribution across social categories and skin color. Taken together, our findings suggest that the social structure defined by the caste system in India has a profound influence on the skin pigmentation patterns of the subcontinent. In particular, social category and associated single nucleotide polymorphisms explain about 32% and 6.4%, respectively, of the total phenotypic variance. Phylogeography of the associated single nucleotide polymorphisms studied across 52 diverse populations of the Indian subcontinent shows wide presence of the derived alleles, although their frequencies vary across populations. Our results show that both polymorphisms (rs1426654 and rs2470102) play an important role in the skin pigmentation diversity of South Asians.

AbstractIncineration technique is widely used to dispose of contaminated waste, municipal waste or medical waste. Burning medical waste causes formation of highly corrosive environment inside the chambers. Present study deals with the performance of Ni based Superalloy Superni 600 hanged inside the secondary chamber of medical waste incinerator for 1000 h under cyclic condition. Superni 600 showed good corrosion resistance under this environment. Formation of dense and compact layer of Cr2O3was observed at substrate oxide interface which acts as a diffusion barrier for corrosive species.

Recently, noscapine was reported as anticancer drug. Unlike, colchicine and podophyllotoxin, noscapine did not depolymerize microtubules even at stoichiometric concentrations but rather only mitigated their dynamics. Other microtubule-interacting chemotherapeutics, although quite effective, have therapy-limiting toxicities including immunosuppression and peripheral neuropathies. Recurrent cancers often become resistant. Noscapine however remains effective in some such instances, e.g., taxane-resistant ovarian cancer. Noscapine and analogs also do not show signs of neurotoxicity or immunosuppression. In addition, 9-bromo noscapine, Red-9-Br-Nos and other analogs were characterized for their structure and further studied in detail. On the other hand, noscapine was shown to be neuroprotective in mouse model of neurodegenerative disease and in stroke patients. Like low doses of colchicine, noscapine and its analog 9-Br-Noscapine also show anti-inflammatory activities. There are indications of a preventive use of noscapine in ischemiareperfusion injury and fibrosis. The entire biosynthetic pathway of noscapine is encoded as gene cluster within 401 kilo bases of genomic DNA, opening up opportunities for the large-scale biotechnological production of noscapine for medicinal needs. Thus, noscapine and its derivatives (noscapinoids) might be cost-effective and safe components for cancer chemotherapy. Owing to its low toxicity, it also might be useful for preventive use in high-risk situations. This brief review is an update of current research activity and patents on noscapine and its analogs.

Land degradation is a major problem in the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayan region. The steep slope with low forest cover and increasing human interference are the major factors of land degradation. Therefore, identification of severe degradation prone areas is necessary for implementing conservation strategies to retard the present rate of degradation processes. The aim of this study is to assess the vulnerable land degradation areas based on Space Application Centre (SAC/ISRO) guidelines and MEDALUSmodel. Indicators used to calculate the degradation vulnerability are geology, slope, aspect, soil type, rainfall, temperature, land use/land cover, population density, non-worker population and illiteracy. The results reveal that the areas with higher rainfall, less forest cover and large population are highly vulnerable to degradation in spite of moderate slope. The degradation vulnerability index values have been classified into five land degradation categories. The Pong dam is a large water body where the land degradation is nil. The low, moderate, high and very high land degradation categories account for 19.01, 22.79, 31.49 and 17.37% area of the district, respectively.

Electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen requires an efficient catalyst preferably made of cheap and abundant metal ions for the improved water oxidation reaction. An Fe-based film has been deposited in a single step by electrochemical deposition at temperatures higher than the room temperature. Until now, the electrodeposition of iron oxide has been carried out at 298 K or at lower temperatures under a controlled atmosphere to prohibit atmospheric oxidation of Fe2+of the iron precursor. A metal inorganic complex, ferrocene, and non-aqueous electrolyte medium propylene carbonate have been used to achieve electrodeposition of iron oxide without the need of any inert or controlled atmosphere. At 298 K, the amorphous film was formed, whereas at 313 K and at higher temperatures, the hematite film was grown, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The transformation of iron of the ferrocene into a higher oxidation state under the experimental conditions used was further confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopic methods. The films deposited at 313 K showed the best performance for water oxidation with remarkable long-term electrocatalytic stability and an impressive turnover frequency of 0.028 s–1which was 4.5 times higher than that of films deposited at 298 K (0.006 s–1). The observed overpotential to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm–2was found to be 100 mV less for the film deposited at 313 K compared to room-temperature-derived films under similar experimental conditions. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance data revealed that films obtained at 313 K have the least charge transfer resistance (114 Ω) among all, supporting the most efficient electron transport in the film. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first-ever report where the crystalline iron-based film has been shown to be electrodeposited without any post-deposition additional treatment for alkaline oxygen evolution reaction application.

ABSTRACTThis work presents the trend analysis and relationship between chlorophyll-a(chl-a) concentration and sea surface temperature (SST) in the central equatorial Indian Ocean (CEIO) using Aqua MODIS chl-aLevel-3 Standard Mapped Image (SMI) data for a period of 10 years (2002–2012). In order to understand the monsoonal variability of chl-aconcentration and SST and to evaluate their relationships over the CEIO, trend analysis of chl-avalues was carried out. The area average chl-aconcentration in the region shows a weak annual cycle with high concentration during winter (October–December) and low in summer (June). High chl-aconcentration (~0.22 mg m−3) is observed during early winter in the region. Chl-aconcentration starts decreasing from March onwards until the onset of summer monsoon. The data reveal low chl-aconcentrations during summer period, i.e., from June to September, which is in accordance with several observations, and higher concentrations during October to December. The other reason is that satellite sensor may not capture chl-avariability more accurately because of cloud cover during summer monsoon time. A reasonably significant coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.51; significant at p < 0.05 level) between SST and chl-aconcentration is recorded. This study clearly suggests that the SST acts as a proxy for variables which cause high chl-aconcentration in the CEIO.

In this paper, a full field technique for mapping a latent fingerprint using a coherent gradient sensing (CGS) sensor is proposed. Collimated light from an He–Ne laser illuminates a specimen comprising a fingerprint implanted onto a reflecting surface. Reflected light from the specimen is analyzed using the CGS sensor comprising a pair of gratings. Reflected light carries information regarding the depth and orientation of furrows and ridges in the fingerprint. The topological information of the fingerprint is retrieved using four-step phase shifting interferometry. Well-defined 2D and 3D phase plots have been reconstructed to map the topography of the human fingerprint. The recorded slope data reconstructs the information regarding the separation and depth of the ridges in the latent fingerprint. The proposed technique is noninvasive and full field and does not require any kind of chemical or physical treatment. The sensor is very simple, yields interferometric sensitivity, and has the advantages of easy alignment, compactness, and low cost.

In the present work TiAlN coatings were deposited by plasma spray process as titanium aluminium based nitride (Ti, Al)N coatings possess excellent tribological behaviour with respect to metal cutting and polymer forming contacts. Three coatings of TiAlN were deposited on AISI-304 grade boiler steel substrate out of which two were thin nanocoatings deposited at different temperatures of 500°C and 200°C and one conventional coating was deposited by plasma spraying. The as sprayed coatings were characterized with relative to coating thickness, microhardness, porosity and microstructure. The optical microscopy (OM), the XRD analysis and field mission scanning electron microscope (FESEM with EDAX attachment) techniques have been used to identify various phases formed after coating deposited on the surface of the substrate. Subsequently the sliding wear behaviour of uncoated, PVD sprayed nanostructured thin TiAlN coatings deposited at 500°C and 200°C and plasma sprayed conventional coated AISI-304 grade boiler steel were investigated according to ASTM standard G99-03 using pin on disk wear test rig. Cumulative wear volume loss and coefficient of friction, μ were calculated for the coated as well as uncoated specimens for 0.5, 1 and 2 m/sec sliding velocities at a constant normal load of 10 N. The worn out samples were analysed with SEM/EDAX. Wear rates in terms of volumetric loss (mm3/g) for uncoated and coated alloys were compared. The nanostructured TiAlN coatings deposited at 500°C and 200°C has shown minimum wear rate as compared to conventional TiAlN coating and uncoated AISI-304 grade boiler steel. Nanostructured TiAlN coatings were found to be successful in retaining surface contact with the substrate after the wear tests.

In the manuscript conventional and nanostructured nitrided coatings developed to increase hardness and to improve the wear, erosion and corrosion resistance of structural materials. Three coatings of TiAlN were deposited on AISI-304, out of which two were thin nanocoatings at different temperatures of 500°C and 200°C are developed by Oerlikon Balzer’s rapid coating system machine under a reactive nitrogen atmosphere. One conventional coating TiAl was deposited by Plasma spraying method which was post nitrided. Then the coated samples were characterized with relative to coating thickness, microhardness, porosity and structure. The XRD and SEM/EDAX techniques have been used to identify various phases formed after coating on the surface of steel.The microhardness of conventional TiAlN coating was found to be of the order of 900-950 Hv. The grain size for nanostructured TiAlN coatings deposited at 500°C and 200°C are 15nm and 14nm respectively as calculated by Sherrer’s formula from XRD plot.

'The question is will the regulators think alike? Will they be of the view that competition will be eliminated with this deal? The answer for them might be in the [...]