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Sensing and visualization of metabolites and metabolic pathways in situ are significant requirements for tracking their spatiotemporal dynamics in a non-destructive manner. The shikimate pathway is an important cellular mechanism that leads to the de novo synthesis of many compounds containing aromatic rings of high importance such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. In this work, we present a cost-effective and extraction-free method based on the principles of stable isotope-coupled Raman spectroscopy and hyperspectral Raman imaging to monitor and visualize the activity of the shikimate pathway. We also demonstrated the applicability of this approach for nascent aromatic amino acid localization and tracking turnover dynamics in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic model systems. This method can emerge as a promising tool for both qualitative and semi-quantitative in situ metabolomics, contributing to a better understanding of aromatic ring-containing metabolite dynamics across various organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-cost DNA extraction procedures pose significant challenges for budget-constrained laboratories. To address this, we introduce OpenCell, an economical, open-source, 3-in-1 laboratory device that combines the functionalities of a bead homogenizer, a microcentrifuge, and a vortex mixer. OpenCell utilizes modular attachments that magnetically connect to a central rotating brushless motor. This motor couples to an epicyclic gearing mechanism, enabling efficient bead homogenization, vortex mixing, and centrifugation within one compact unit. OpenCell's design incorporates multiple redundant safety features, ensuring both the device's and operator's safety. Additional features such as RPM measurement, programmable timers, battery operation, and optional speed control make OpenCell a reliable and reproducible laboratory instrument. In our study, OpenCell successfully isolated DNA from Spinacia oleracea (spinach), with an average yield of 2.3 μg and an A260/A280 ratio of 1.77, demonstrating its effectiveness for downstream applications such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification. With its compact size (20 cm x 28 cm x 6.7 cm) and lightweight design (0.8 kg), comparable to the size and weight of a laptop, OpenCell is portable, making it an attractive component of a 'lab-in-a-backpack' for resource-constrained environments in low-and-middle-income countries and synthetic biology in remote field stations. Leveraging the accessibility of 3D printing and off-the-shelf components, OpenCell can be manufactured and assembled at a low unit cost of less than $50, providing an affordable alternative to expensive laboratory equipment costing over $4000. OpenCell aims to overcome the barriers to entry in synthetic biology research and contribute to the growing collection of frugal and open hardware. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Holt-Oram syndrome is a rare congenital autosomal dominant disorder caused by a mutation in the TBX5 gene. It is characterised by upper limb abnormalities and congenital heart lesions, such as Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), typically affecting children. In this case, a sixyear-old boy presented with facial puffiness and decreased urine output following an upper respiratory infection. Upon examination, he was found to have Holt-Oram syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterised by abnormalities in the bones of the upper limbs and congenital heart defects. He developed acute Post Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis (PSGN) following a streptococcal infection, resulting in persistent hypertension. Each condition independently poses significant health challenges, and their simultaneous occurrence complicates the clinical picture considerably. Following detailed investigations and management, the child required continued treatment with two antihypertensive medications upon discharge. The need for dual therapy in a paediatric patient highlights the severity of his condition and the challenges in managing it effectively. Close follow-up is essential to monitor disease progression and ensure optimal outcomes. This case features both a genetic disorder (Holt-Oram syndrome due to a TBX5 gene mutation) and an immune-mediated renal disease (PSGN), representing a rare intersection of genetic and postinfectious pathologies. The co-existence of these two conditions is unusual and complicates the clinical picture, necessitating a tailored approach to management. This case underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving cardiology, nephrology, and genetics. Coordinated care is crucial for monitoring disease progression, managing complications, and ensuring comprehensive treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brugada phenocopy is considered when a Brugada-type ECG pattern is present but with a low likelihood of true Brugada syndrome, as indicated by negative family history, genetic testing, or provocative testing with drugs, or ECG normalization after the removal of precipitants. Brugada phenocopy has been reported due to various causes such as fever and electrolyte imbalance. We describe a 22-year-old man who presented with aluminum phosphide poisoning, resulting in severe metabolic acidosis, myocarditis, and profound myocardial depression. He developed transient Brugada-like ECG changes and multiorgan dysfunction, requiring intensive management, including mechanical ventilation and inotropes. Brugada phenocopy is a rare manifestation of aluminum phosphide-associated toxic myocarditis. After a week of treatment, there was a significant improvement in cardiac function and overall clinical status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Peritonitis due to ulcer perforation continues to be one of the most common surgical emergencies to be attended by surgeon. This may be due to persistence of various risk factors amongst general population like H.Pylori infection, NSAID's and several others. Aim and Objectives: To predict the ability and usefulness of Modified Boey's score as compared to Manheim Peritonitis Index on outcome of patients with perforated peptic ulcer disease complicated with diffuse peritonitis. Material and Methods: The present prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery from October 2020 to October 2022 on 50 patients. Results: Out of 18 patients who developed pre-operative shock 77.78% patients developed postoperative complications and 38.89% patients expired in postoperative period. Accuracy of Modified Boey's, scoring system in predicting morbidity rate 4.35%,31.25%, 88.89% and 57.14% for Modified Boey's, score of 0,1,2,3 respectively with (p value<0.0001) and morbidity 0%, 3.125%, 16.67% and 100%with Modified Boey's, Score of 0,1,2,3 respectively with (p value 0.046). It was seen that maximum complications developed in MODIFIED BOEY score 2 group, and mortality rate increases with increase in Modified BOEY score. Conclusion: Present study concluded the accuracy of Modified Boey's scoring system in predicting mortality rate better than Manheim Peritonitis index. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated high predictive value of Modified Boey's score in predicting postoperative mortality and morbidity. Although the Modified Boey's score was a good predictor of mortality and morbidity, its predictive ability was higher for mortality. Manheim peritonitis index is an extensive postoperative scoring system, with multiple variables and extensive calculation mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]