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The use of halogen bonding interactions as an alternative to acid and metal catalysts for substrate activation has gained popularity in recent years. In this work we demonstrate a halogen bond assisted activation of chalcones under visible light irradiation for the Friedel‐Crafts reaction with indole to yield β‐indolylketones. The simple and scalable protocol uses the readily available CBr4 as halogen bond catalyst. The targets are produced in 31–94% of yield with excellent functional group tolerance. The proposed mechanism of the reaction is supported by UV‐vis, fluorescence, and NMR spectroscopic studies. Further it is demonstrated that the β‐indolylketones can be oxidised to indole substituted α, β‐unsaturated ketones by DDQ or cyclized to thieno[2,3‐b]indoles in the presence of elemental sulfur and base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoinduced aryl radical generation is a powerful strategy in organic synthesis that facilitates the formation of diverse carbon‐carbon and carbon‐heteroatom bonds. The synthetic applications of photoinduced aryl radical formation in the synthesis of complex organic compounds, including natural products, physiologically significant molecules, and functional materials, have received immense attention. An overview of current developments in photoinduced aryl radical production methods and their uses in organic synthesis is given in this article. A generalized idea of how to choose the reagents and approach for the generation of aryl radicals is described, along with photoinduced techniques and associated mechanistic insights. Overall, this article offers a critical assessment of the mechanistic results as well as the selection of reaction parameters for specific reagents in the context of radical cascades, cross‐coupling reactions, aryl radical functionalization, and selective C−H functionalization of aryl substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Superficial mycoses are fungal infections limited to the outermost layers of the skin and its appendages. The chief causative agents of these mycoses are dermatophytes and yeasts. The diagnosis of dermatophytosis can be made by direct mycological examination with potassium hydroxide (10%–30%) of biological material obtained from patients with suspected mycosis, providing results more rapid than fungal cultures, which may take days or weeks. This information, together with clinical history and laboratory diagnosis, ensures that the appropriate treatment is initiated promptly. However, false negative results are obtained in 5%–15%, by conventional methods of diagnosis of dermatophytosis. Objectives: To study the metabolic profiles of the commonly occurring dermatophytes by NMR spectroscopy. Patients/Materials: We have used 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) experiments along with Human Metabolome Database (HMDB) and Chenomx database search for identification of primary metabolites in the methanol extract of two fungal species: Trichophyton mentagrophyte (T. mentagrophyte) and Trichophyton rubrum (T. rubrum). Both standard strains and representative number of clinical isolates of these two species were investigated. Further, metabolic profiles obtained were analysed using multivariate analysis. Results: We have identified 23 metabolites in the T. mentagrophyte and another 23 metabolites in T. rubrum. Many important metabolites like trehalose, proline, mannitol, acetate, GABA and several other amino acids were detected, which provide the necessary components for fungal growth and metabolism. Altered metabolites were defined between Trichophyton mentagrophyte and T. rubrum strains. Conclusion: We have detected many metabolites in the two fungal species T. mentagrophyte and T. rubrum by using NMR spectroscopy. NMR spectroscopy provides a holistic snapshot of the metabolome of an organism. Key metabolic differences were identified between the two fungal strains. We need to perform more studies on metabolite profiling of the samples from these species for their rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports, the fabrication of cationic microgel doped MnO2/Fe3O4 nanocomposites (CM@MnO2/Fe3O4) via free radical emulsion polymerization technique, and an economical and environmental friendly approach to some organic transformations, such as heterogeneous photocatalytic reduction of methylene blue (MB, toxic dye), para‐nitro phenol (PNP, harmful pollutant) and dimethyl amino benzaldehyde (DMAB, skin allergic reagent) in presence of UV light (38 W). First of all, three different crosslinked grades of cationic microgels (CMs) have been synthesized by using styrene, dimethyl acrylamide, cyclohexyl methacrylate, [2‐(acryloyloxy)ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride and N‐hydroxymethyl acrylamide monomers by taking different amounts of N‐hydroxymethyl acrylamide, and keeping the other monomers in fixed quantities. Further, all the grades of CMs have been doped by bimetallic MnO2/Fe3O4 nanoparticles, through hydrothermal method. Fabrication of CMs and CM@MnO2/Fe3O4 nanocomposites has been confirmed by the characteristic peaks observed in FT‐IR spectral analysis and their thermal stability has been evidenced by thermogravimetric analysis. TEM and DLS analyses have revealed their particular size. The surface morphology of CMs and CM@MnO2/Fe3O4 nanocomposites has been visualized by scanning electrode microscope analysis. The nanocomposites have effectively and efficiently catalyzed the reduction reactions of MB, PNP, and DMAB, in presence of UV light, by 98%, 98%, and 86%, respectively. The photocatalysts have been reused up to eight cycles without any loss of their catalytic activity. The photocatalytic reductions have also been studied for their kinetics, and exhibited pseudo first order kinetics (kapp, 10−2 min−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In long-term integrated nutrient management (INM) involving organic amendments with inorganic fertilizer application, understanding nitrogen (N) mineralization is key to assessing soil functioning. In this study, soil samples were collected following rice cropping from treatments consisting of various combinations of inorganic with organic fertilizers, including farm yard manure, wheat straw or Green Leaf Manuring, as well as 100% inorganic and a control (no fertilizer). The soil samples were incubated for 120 days at 30°C for determining N mineralization potential, and the mineralization patterns were fitted to double first-order kinetic models to separate the potentially mineralizable nitrogen (PMN) into readily available N (PMN-I) and resistant N (PMN-II) fractions. The half-lives of PMN-I and PMN-II ranged from 1.2 to 3.3 days and 22.4 to 63.0 days, respectively. In the organically amended soils, we observed that microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and nitrogen (MBN) increased by 43% and 41%, respectively, compared to inorganic fertilizer application alone. Moreover, the soil enzyme activity increased, revealing enhanced biological activity (dehydrogenase--31.96 µg TPF, Urease--35.69 µg urea-N, glucosidase--57.78 µg p-nitrophenol, fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis--45.84 µg fluorescein, N-acetyl ß-glucosaminidase--46.47 µg p-nitrophenol released g-1 dry soil h-1). We determined that PMN-I was affected by the soil urease activity; whereas, PMN-II was regulated by soil organic carbon, MBC, MBN, dehydrogenase activity and fluorescein diacetate hydrolysing capacity. These findings elucidate the soil biological indicators associated with nitrogen (N) mineralization, which can help optimize INM practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to unearth the influence of students' intelligence (IQ) on their academic achievement (AA) in a mediated mechanism. Following the theoretical essence, the present study analysed cross‐sectional data in Bangladesh and China using a self‐administered survey. A sample of 287 from Bangladesh (study 1) and 317 from China (study 2) showed that IQ does not influence creativity (CR) but AA. In effect, the direct and indirect (mediating) effects of CR on AA are not supported. Surprisingly, the impact of IQ on CR is significant through the mediating effect of creative self‐belief. The findings contribute to advancing and extending the knowledge gap in developing countries as these observed variables were witnessed as being Western‐biased. Furthermore, this study also contributes to formulating policies for higher educational policymakers to involve students in positive initiatives so that they can feel tempted to engage in creative practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the relationship between diet and chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) remains elusive, several patients seek dietary modifications as they are easy and cost‐effective. Adequate patient education and counseling are crucial as modified diets may be beneficial for a subset of antihistamine refractory CSU patients, and no modality currently exists to identify these patients. Elimination of food items based exclusively on patient history may lead to unnecessary restrictions in most cases resulting in nutritional deficiencies and impaired quality of life. Several dietary strategies have been tried till date with varying rates of success and evidence. This review highlights the various dietary strategies along with their levels of evidence, which may help the treating dermatologists and physicians to counsel CSU patients and make evidence‐based treatment decisions. There is grade A recommendation for the elimination of food additives (artificial pseudoallergens), personalized diets, vitamin D supplementation, Diamine oxidase supplementation and probiotics (in children), grade B recommendation for dietary elimination of red meat, fish and their products, natural pseudoallergens (fruits, vegetables, and spices), and low‐histamine diet, while dietary elimination of gluten (with concomitant celiac disease) has grade C recommendation. Notably, elimination diets should be continued for at least 3 consecutive weeks to assess their effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis is adversely effecting the psychosocial well‐being of patients. Aims: To assess the impact of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis on quality of life and psychological well‐being of patients. Methods: We performed a cross‐sectional study on patients of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis aged >12 years. Clinical diagnosis was done, followed by appropriate investigations when required. The patients were made to fill up the questionnaires on Dermatology Life Quality Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Perceived Stress Scale in English and local languages. The responses were coded with 4‐point Likert scale. Statistical analysis was done using MedCal®V.125.0. Results: Data of 123 patients were analyzed. Mean DLQI score was 21.4 ± 5.6 and main domain affected was "symptoms and feelings." CRD had an "extremely large effect" on QoL (DLQI score 21–30) in 55.3% patients. Mean HADS‐A(anxiety) score was 10.1 ± 3.6, and mean HADS‐D(depression) score of participants was 7.8 ± 3.2. Mean perceived stress scale (PSS) score was 18.8 ± 4.3. Involvement of >1 site was a risk factor for higher DLQI score suggestive of "extremely large impact" on QoL (OR 34.02,95% CI 5.7–203.2,p = 0.0001), higher/worsened HADS‐A score (OR 5.4, 95% CI 1.2–22.9, p = 0.02), and higher/worsened PSS score (OR 6.1, 95% CI 1.1–34.1, p = 0.04). Persistent disease >1 year (OR 11.5, 95% CI 1.9–67.8, p = 0.007) and male gender (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.8, p = 0.01) were significant risk factors for anxiety while BSA involvement >10% was a significant risk factor for moderate to severe perceived stress(OR 13.9, 95% CI 1.5–130.7, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis requires a multidisciplinary approach involving psychiatrists, to reduce the psychological burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the relationship between financial development and remittance inflows (remittances), measured as a share of GDP, within a non‐linear framework in Jamaica over the period 1980 to 2017. By applying the autoregressive distributed lag bound testing approach to cointegration, we arrive at two key results. First, there is a long‐run cointegrating relationship running from remittances to financial development. Second, remittances and financial development are non‐linearly related. Financial development is a U‐shaped function of remittances. As remittances increase, they first have a negative impact on financial development. However, after remittances reach a threshold point, their impact on financial development is positive. Taken together, the results indicate that remittances first substitute for and then complement financial development. We provide important policy suggestions such as those that would increase remittances and those that would incentivize remittance receiving households to use these inflows in the formal financial sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been an alarming increase in the prevalence of chronic, recurrent and steroid modified dermatophytosis of the glabrous skin in the recent years in India. There is paucity of literature on the magnitude of this major public health problem. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of dermatophytosis and clinico‐epidemiological features of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis (CRD) across India and to evaluate the associated risk factors. Methods: This is a multicentric descriptive cross‐sectional study conducted in 13 centres situated across India in two phases during dry and rainy seasons. All consecutive patients presenting with dermatophytosis were screened during the study period of 14 consecutive working days. Patients with CRD of the glabrous skin as per the case definition were included after exclusion of isolated hair and nail infections. Demography, clinical findings and results of potassium hydroxide wet mount were recorded. Results and conclusion: A total of 41,421 patients were screened, out of which 7174 (17.31%) patients had glabrous dermatophytosis. CRD was observed in 1999 (27.86%) patients with 78.08% and 21.95% of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis, respectively. Family history was present in 50.03% of patients. History of sharing of fomites was present in 50.37% of them. Synthetic tight clothes were worn by 43.47%, while 50.9% gave history of misuse of topical corticosteroid creams. Multiple site involvement was common (69.58%) with tinea cruris (79.99%) and tinea corporis (75.69%) being the most common clinical types. CRD is associated with sharing of fomites, topical corticosteroid misuse and involvement of multiple sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Although about 80% of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) cases are reported to be mild, the remaining 20% of cases often result in severe disease with the potential of crushing already overstrained health care services. There has been sustainable growth of COVID‐19 cases worldwide since mid‐May 2020. To keep tabs on community transmission of COVID‐19 infection screening of the samples from a large population is needed which includes asymptomatic/symptomatic individuals along with the migrant population. This requires extra resources, man power, and time for detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). In the current scenario, the pooled sample testing strategy advocated by the Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi is a new approach that is very promising in resource‐limited settings. In this study, we have evaluated the pooled strategy in terms of accurate testing results, utilization of consumables, and identification of borderline positive cases. Materials and Methods: Between April and June 2020, we performed COVID‐19 testing by RT‐PCR from areas with varying prevalence of population referred to COVID laboratory, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow. In the first step, the samples are collated into pools of 5 or 10. These pools are tested by RT‐PCR. Negative pools were reported as negative whereas positive pools of 5 and 10 are then deconvoluted and each sample is tested individually. Results: In the present study, we tested 4620 samples in 462 pools of 10 and 14 940 samples in 2990 pools of 5. Among 10 samples pool, 61 (13%) pools flagged positive in the first step. In the second step, among 61 pools (610 samples) deconvoluted strategy was followed in which 72 individual samples came positive. The pooled‐sample testing strategy helps saves substantial resources and time during surge testing and enhanced pandemic surveillance. This approach requires around 76% to 93% fewer tests done in low to moderate prevalence settings and group sizes up to 5–10 in a population, compared to individual testing. Conclusions: Pooled‐sample PCR analysis strategies can save substantial resources and time for COVID‐19 mass testing in comparison with individual testing without compromising the resulting outcome of the test. In particular, the pooled‐sample approach can facilitate mass screening in the early coming stages of COVID‐19 outbreaks, especially in low‐ and middle‐income settings, and control the spread by meticulous testing of all risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the rapid and sensitive determination of the total iron‐binding capacity of transferrin (Tf) in human serum using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy. Herein, metal organic framework (MOF)–gold nanoparticle (AuNP) complexes were used as the SERS substrate. The highly porous MOF preconcentrates the reporter molecules and accelerates the approach of the reporter molecules to the vicinity of the AuNPs on the surface of the MOF. As a result, a significant number of reporter molecules are trapped close to SERS‐active "hot spots," and their Raman signals are greatly enhanced. Additionally, Tf acts as an anchor to form a three‐dimensional assembly of MOF–AuNP units via specific binding to the Fe(III) ions of adjacent MOF units when MOF–AuNP complexes are added to human serum. This leads to further enhancement of the Raman signals of Raman reporter molecules with increasing Tf concentration. Quantitative estimation of Tf is possible by monitoring the variations in the intensity of the Raman signal of Raman reporter molecules adsorbed on MOF–AuNP complexes as a function of the Tf concentration. In this work, SERS‐based analysis using the MOF–AuNP complexes was performed to determine the concentration of Tf in the human serum for diagnosing iron deficiency. The limit of detection of Tf was determined to be 0.51 μM in spiked human serum. This SERS‐based analysis of Tf using MOF–AuNPs provides new insight for the rapid and sensitive diagnosis of iron deficiency in human serum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thiol–ene reaction leading to a series of thioether derivatives by simple metal and oxidant free visible light promoted photosensitized protocol, following anti‐Markonikov hydrothiolation of unactivated aryl and alkyl olefins at room temperature is demonstrated. Benzil served as a green photosensitizer in this reaction and white LED lights as a light source. This radical based thiol–ene reaction is operationally simple and tolerates a wide variety of functional groups present in olefins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light promoted two‐step one‐pot syntheses of quinoxalines and imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines from alkynes and alkenes, respectively under mild conditions are described. The conversions occur via the formation of α,α′‐dibromo ketones or α‐bromo ketones on irradiation with UV LED fluorescent black light (380–390 nm) in acetonitrile/water mixture. This protocol does not require sensitizer or catalyst or additives. This two‐step protocol is a new entry of synthetic methods available for quinoxaline and imidazopyridine derivatives and offers wide functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New techniques are required for earlier diagnosis and response to treatment of pancreatic cancer. Here, a label‐free approach is reported in which circulating pancreatic tumor cells are isolated from healthy peripheral blood cells via cell bioimprinting technology. The method involves pre‐fabrication of pancreatic cell layers and sequential casting of cell surfaces with a series of custom‐made resins to produce negative cell imprints. The imprint is functionalized with a combination of polymers to engineer weak attraction to the cells which is further amplified by the increased area of contact with the matching cells. A flow‐through bioimprint chip is designed and tested for selectivity toward two pancreatic tumor cell lines, ASPC‐1 and Mia‐PaCa‐2. Healthy human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are spiked with pancreatic tumor cells at various concentrations. Bioimprints are designed for preferential retention of the matching pancreatic tumor cells and with respect to PBMCs. Tumor bioimprints are capable of capturing and concentrating pancreatic tumor cells from a mixed cell population with increased retention observed with the number of seedings. ASPC‐1 bioimprints preferentially retain both types of pancreatic tumor cells. This technology could be relevant for the collection and interrogation of liquid biopsies, early detection, and relapse monitoring of pancreatic cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a cutaneous disorder characterized by symmetric velvety hyperpigmented plaques on intertriginous areas like axilla, neck, inframammary, and groin. Aims: To summarize the pathophysiology and classification of AN, provide an update of diagnostic testing strategies, and describe the current therapeutic options described so far in the literature for this disease. Methods: A comprehensive english language literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane) for keywords (alone and in combination) was performed. MeSH as well as non‐MeSH terms such as "acanthosis nigricans," "classification," "pathophysiology," "diagnosis," "treatment," "topical drugs," "systemic drugs," "chemical peeling," and "lasers" were taken into consideration. Results: The pathophysiology of AN revolves around a multifactorial stimulation of proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts. Various types of AN include benign, obesity‐associated, syndromic, malignant, acral, unilateral, medication‐induced, and mixed‐type. Homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) is a good tool for assessment of insulin resistance. Management involves general measures (weight reduction and addressing the underlying cause, if any), topical drugs (retinoids, vitamin D analogs, and keratolytics), oral drugs (retinoids and insulin sensitizers), chemical peels (trichloroacetic acid), and lasers (Long pulsed alexandrite, fractional 1550‐nm erbium fiber, and CO2). Conclusion: Acanthosis nigricans is a treatable condition; however, complete cure and disappearance of lesions are difficult to achieve. Weight reduction is the most scientific and practical management strategy. Long‐term studies and further research is warranted in the pathophysiology and treatment of this common condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An alarming increase in recalcitrant dermatophytosis has been witnessed in India over the past decade. Drug resistance may play a major role in this scenario. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of in vitro resistance to terbinafine, itraconazole and voriconazole in dermatophytes, and to identify underlying mutations in the fungal squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene. Patients/Methods: We analysed skin samples from 402 patients originating from eight locations in India. Fungi were identified by microbiological and molecular methods, tested for antifungal susceptibility (terbinafine, itraconazole, voriconazole), and investigated for missense mutations in SQLE. Results: Trichophyton (T.) mentagrophytes internal transcribed spacer (ITS) Type VIII was found in 314 (78%) samples. Eighteen (5%) samples harboured species identified up to the T interdigitale/mentagrophytes complex, and T rubrum was detected in 19 (5%) samples. 71% of isolates were resistant to terbinafine. The amino acid substitution Phe397Leu in the squalene epoxidase of resistant T mentagrophytes was highly prevalent (91%). Two novel substitutions in resistant Trichophyton strains, Ser395Pro and Ser443Pro, were discovered. The substitution Ala448Thr was found in terbinafine‐sensitive and terbinafine‐resistant isolates but was associated with increased MICs of itraconazole and voriconazole. Conclusions: The high frequencies of terbinafine resistance in dermatophytes are worrisome and demand monitoring and further research. Squalene epoxidase substitutions between Leu393 and Ser443 could serve as markers of resistance in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Though melasma is a common skin condition in India, epidemiological studies are few and geographically confined. The present study was designed to gain insights into factors involved in causation and aggravation of melasma, demographic distribution, clinical presentations, and treatment patterns. Methods: A cross‐sectional multicentric study was conducted in 10 centers distributed across the four regions of India. Data including demographics, personal and family medical history, triggering and aggravating factors, clinical patterns, and details of past treatment regimens were recorded, and severity was estimated using the modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score. Data collected by site dermatologists were collated and analyzed. Results: The study evaluated 1,001 patients with melasma from 10 centers. Mean age was 38.02 years. Females dominated (85%). Proportion of males was highest in the east (22.2%) and lowest in the south (10.8%). Majority of patients belonged to intermediate skin phototypes. There was a significant difference (P = 0.000) between duration of sun exposure and duration of cooking fire/occupational heat exposure across the four regions. There was a significant association (P = 0.003, Mann‐Whitney U test) and a positive correlation between duration of cooking heat/occupational heat exposure and severity of melasma. Sunscreens were used by only one‐fifth of the study population (19.6%) whereas use of steroids and triple combinations was more common (28%). Conclusion: One of the largest studies on melasma from the subcontinent, this study describes the epidemiological determinants of melasma. Data suggests that the duration of cooking fire/occupational heat exposure may be linked to severity of melasma. Sunscreen use seems inadequate in Indian patients; use of steroid‐containing medications is more common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The disease burden of chronic‐relapsing and therapy‐refractory superficial dermatophytosis dramatically increased in India within the past 5‐6 years. In order to evaluate the prevalence of this trend, 201 skin scrapings were collected from patients from all parts of India and were tested for dermatophytes using both fungal culture and a PCR‐ELISA directly performed with native skin scrapings. Fungal culture material was identified by genomic Sanger sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the translation elongation factor (TEF)‐1α gene. In total, 149 (74.13%) out of the 201 samples showed a dermatophyte‐positive culture result. Out of this, 138 (92.62%) samples were identified as Trichophyton (T.) mentagrophytes and 11 (7.38%) as Trichophyton rubrum. The PCR‐ELISA revealed similar results: 162 out of 201 (80.56%) samples were dermatophyte‐positive showing 151 (93.21%) T mentagrophytes‐ and 11 (6.79%) T rubrum‐positive samples. In this study, we show for the first time a dramatic Indian‐wide switch from T rubrum to T mentagrophytes. Additionally, sequencing revealed a solely occurring T mentagrophytes "Indian ITS genotype" that might be disseminated Indian‐wide due to the widespread abuse of topical clobetasol and other steroid molecules mixed with antifungal and antibacterial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinolines, thiazole and many thiazolotriazoles have been given insistence because of diversification in medicinal and biological properties associated with them. In view of these observations, it is therefore proposed to synthesize and study the biological properties of some novel quinolinylthiazolotriazole derivatives. All derivatives were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectra. All compounds 5 a–g and 7 a–g series were screened for antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential. In 5 a‐g series, compounds 5 c (4‐NO2) and 5 a (4‐Br) derivatives showed free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values of 425.9 μg/ml and 413.3 μg/ml. In 7 a‐g series, compound 7 c (3‐NO2) and 7 g (4‐OH) derivatives showed highest free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values 7.75 μg/ml and 14.06 μg/ml. Compounds 5 a, 5 c, 7 c and 7 g exhibited pronounced anti‐inflammatory activity among all other synthesized compounds. Molecular docking studies revealed good binding through hydrogen bonding with catalytic residues as well as neighboring residues at the active site of target protein trypsin. Among all the synthesized compounds 5 c, 5 a, 7 c and 7 g showed least binding energy values of −10.70 kcal/mol, −9.69 kcal/mol, −11.47 kcal/mol and −9.83 kcal/mol respectively. Results from antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and in silico studies suggest that the synthesized compounds may be potential antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory agents and can act as lead molecules in drug discovery. As evidenced by the molecules 5 c and 7 c showing good interaction (hydrogen bonds and short interactions) with protein trypsin. The trypsin residues Phe41, Lys60, Gly193, Ser195, Gly193, Ser195, Lys60 and Phe41 interacts with compound 7 c. Similarly, compound 5 c interacts with the residues Lys60, His57, Gln192, Gly193, Ser195, Lys60, His57, Ser195, Gln192 and Gly193. The newly synthesized compounds are highly potent inhibitors of Trypsin thus providing new scope in drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to obtain existence results for an infinite system of differential equations of order n with boundary conditions in the Banach spaces c0 and ℓ1 with the help of a technique associated with measures of noncompactness. We also provide some illustrative examples in support of our existence theorems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Since 2014, Canada has been experiencing a higher unemployment rate due to a slump of the crude oil price. Using a monthly data set of the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil spot price and unemployment rates of Canadian provinces and the United States from January 1976 to October 2016, we examine the asymmetric effects of oil price on unemployment rates. Specifically, we split the sample into the pre‐technological boom (January 1976 to March 1995) and post‐technological boom periods (April 1995 to October 2016) and analyse whether the asymmetric effects are discernible in these two periods. This is done by applying the ordinary least squares regressions and Granger causality tests. Our findings confirm the asymmetric effects for the full sample in the United States. In Canada, the negative and asymmetric relationship is conspicuous particularly in the post‐tech period, and this relationship is more prominent in three oil‐producing Canadian provinces namely Alberta, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland & Labrador. It is noticeable that both in Canada and in the three provinces, the falling oil price affects unemployment adversely only in the post‐tech period. Granger causality tests support the short‐run causal relationships between changes in oil price and unemployment rate in the post‐tech period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vasculitic lesions have been reported to develop in patients with COVID-19 infection. 2 Negrini S, Guadagno A, Greco M, Parodi A, Burlando M. An unusual case of bullous haemorrhagic vasculitis in a COVID-19 patient. Keywords: Koebnerization; post-Covid; vasculitis EN Koebnerization post-Covid vasculitis 2307 2308 2 06/23/22 20220601 NES 220601 CONFLICT OF INTEREST None. [Extracted from the article]

Cutaneous pigmentation due to the arthropod, Cydnidae (a.k.a. burrowing bug), is increasingly being reported in the literature. The transient nature of this pigmentation probably contributes to its underreporting. We report a case of an 8‐year‐old girl with a sudden onset of hyperpigmented lesions on her index finger, face, and neck due to burrowing bugs. We propose the term "transient pseudo‐lentigines sign" to better describe this fleeting arthropod‐induced pigmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Das and Serieux (2010; 2015) and Serieux (2011) used the term "reverse flows" to define the part of external resources that is not domestically absorbed; instead used to finance debt obligations, capital flight, and accumulate reserves. While there is a vast literature on the growth and development impact of remittances in developing countries, the existing empirical literature has mostly ignored the potential diversion of remittances to reverse flows. This paper bridges the gap in the literature by estimating the reverse flows in the case of Bangladesh, which is one of the top remittance recipient countries in the world. The data set runs from 1976 to 2015. Econometric results obtained by employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach show that almost 13–14% of remittances (as the ratio of gross domestic product, GDP) are diverted to finance reverse flows. In other words, the effects of remittances (as the ratio of GDP) on consumption and investment rates are no more than 86–87%. Therefore, the underlying assumption made in the existing literature that all remittances are used to increase consumption and/or investment overstates the impact of this external resource flow in Bangladesh. Findings from this study have important policy implications not only for Bangladesh but for other remittance recipient developing countries. Our findings will help the government to design policies to ensure the optimum allocation of remittances in the domestic economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although rarely performed today in most centers, Senning procedure continues to be a good option for patients with transposition of great arteries presenting late with either regressed left ventricle or pulmonary hypertension. There are many subsets of patients including those having deficient atrial septal tissue, situs inversus, dextrocardia, and atrial isomerism which require complex modifications of technique. One such subset is patients having bilateral superior vena cavae (SVC), which requires coronary sinus cutback and creating a wide flap for the posterior venous baffle which unduly increases the complexity of the surgery. We describe an alternative way of rerouting a persistent left SVC by reimplanting onto the left atrial appendage which forms the part of the systemic atrium after the atrial switch surgery., (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

SDRIFE (symmetrical drug related intertriginous and flexural exanthem) is a benign self-limiting adverse drug reaction (ADR) primarily affecting the intertriginous, gluteal and flexural regions symmetrically in the absence of systemic involvement. It is considered to be a variant of baboon syndrome. Pathogenesis is poorly understood but is thought to be result of a delayed hypersensitivity response after exposure to the drug. Commonly implicated drugs are beta-lactam antibiotics. With the rising incidence of dermatophytosis in the Indian subcontinent, the use of oral anti fungals has become rampant. SDRIFE due to itraconazole has been rarely reported in literature. We hereby present a series of 12 patients presenting with SDRIFE due to itraconazole, which is by far the largest reported in existing literature. This case series highlights the importance of identifying these cutaneous adverse drug reactions in a setting where itraconazole is commonly being used., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a debilitating condition, adversely affecting the patient's quality of life. Bilastine is a recently introduced, non-sedative H1-antihistamine for its treatment. We wanted to compare the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of bilastine 20 mg vs levocetirizine 5 mg in moderate-to-severe CSU. We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial with two groups: bilastine 20 mg (n = 31) and levocetirizine 5 mg (n = 27), once daily for 42 days. We included patients (18-65 years), with moderate-to-severe CSU. UAS7, VAS, and DLQI were used to assess severity of urticaria, global urticaria-induced discomfort and quality of life, respectively. DLQI was assessed at baseline (D0) and end-of-treatment (D42), while UAS7 and VAS were noted at baseline and all follow-up visits. Assessment of UAS7 alteration was our primary objective, while changes in DLQI and VAS were the secondary outcomes. Safety was assessed by recording drug-related adverse events, biochemical investigations, and electrocardiogram, along with tolerability and compliance. Both drugs significantly improved UAS7, DLQI, and VAS at end-of-treatment (D42) compared with baseline (intra-group). At the end-of-treatment, all parameters showed greater improvement with bilastine, but only UAS7 reduction was significant (bilastine > levocetirizine, P = .03). In both the groups, UAS7 and VAS improved significantly D14 onwards, and was maintained throughout the study. Sedation was significantly less with bilastine (P = .04), while neither drug showed any serious adverse-effect. Tolerability of both drugs was similar. Therefore, bilastine was found to be a more effective and less-sedative novel therapy for CSU compared to levocetirizine, with similar effect on quality of life., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

We report 16 patients of tinea cruris who presented with an asymptomatic red scrotum due to fixed dose combination creams containing antifungal agents and topical steroids applied to the thighs as a treatment of tinea cruris. The erythema resolved upon starting appropriate treatment with single molecule antifungal creams and oral antifungal drugs in about six weeks' time in majority of cases. We propose that this clinical presentation may be akin to red scrotum syndrome (RSS). Due to its asymptomatic nature in most of the cases, we propose that this could be a forme fruste of RSS., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

The world entered the year 2020 with reports of the emergence of a new viral illness in Wuhan city, Hubei province, China. In January 2020, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified to be the causative novel coronavirus for the cluster of patients suffering from pneumonia in China. The disease was later named as coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. Several studies, since then, have tried to study and explain the origin of SARS-CoV-2, its structure and pathogenicity, epidemiology, modes of transmission, spectrum of illness and causes of mortality and morbidity. The current management strategies focus on supportive care and prevention of complications. With no definite treatment, as of now, encouraging reports of some anti-viral and anti-malarial drugs in the management of COVID-19 generate some hope. This review intends to cover the current known aspects of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-19, based on the available literature., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Introduction: Bicuspid Aortic Valve related aortopathy is known to be associated with ascending aortic aneurysm and coarctation of aorta. Surgical correction of the combined entity as a double stage procedure has its own set of challenges. Single stage repair for the same has been tried since 1980 with variable success rates. Placement of extra anatomic bypass graft for coarctation repair in different orientations have been discussed in the literature but whether the procedure is feasible without any undue risks when combined with the surgical correction of the aortic root and ascending aorta pathology is a subject of debate., Surgical Technique: Under routine cardiopulmonary bypass, a combined procedure was performed in three patients with ascending aortic aneurysm and coarctation of aorta. The procedure involved the combination of Bentall or supracoronary ascending aorta replacement and a ventral aorta repair., Discussion: We, here, examined the feasibility of such a single stage repair done in three patients and discuss the challenges faced by the surgical team with respect to the procedure and the post-operative care., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)