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Natural fibers play a crucial role in sandwich composites due to their biodegradability, ease of manufacturing, and ability to reduce pollution. The research aims to develop new biodegradable polymer composites using pine tree leaves (PTL) fillers loaded with epoxy through hand layup technique with different wt. % of PTL fillers. The molded composites were characterized to analyze the crystal size and plane orientations, surface morphology, thermal resistance, and presence of elemental compositions in the PTL filler-loaded epoxy composites through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), Energy dispersive analysis (EDX), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The 40 wt % of PTL epoxy composites showed a maximum tensile strength of 32 ± 0.5 MPa, a compressive strength of 15 ± 0.5 MPa, a flexural strength of 55 ± 0.5 MPa, and a Shore D hardness of 73 ± 0.5 SHN. The mechanical strength of 40 wt% PTL fillers loaded epoxy composite was enhanced by adding a single and double layer of E-glass fiber on the bottom and top of the PTL fillers loaded epoxy composite, achieving a maximum tensile strength of 76 ± 0.5 MPa. The 40 wt% PTL fillers loaded double E-glass fiber on the bottom and top of the PTL fillers loaded epoxy sandwich composite attained the maximum tensile strength of 156 ± 0.5 MPa, compressive strength of 29 ± 0.5 MPa, flexural strength of 220 ± 0.5 MPa, and Shore D hardness of 79 ± 0.5 SHN. The PTL fillers loaded and reinforced double E-glass fiber epoxy sandwich composite would be used in low-strength structural applications.

Undifferentiated Embryonal Sarcoma of the Liver (UESL) is a rare hepatic malignant mesenchymal neoplasm in the paediatric population, typically affecting children between 6-10 years of age without sex predilection. It accounts for 9-15% of paediatric liver malignancies, with an incidence of 0.6-1.2 cases per one million patients. Here, the authors present a case of an 11-year-old male, who presented with right upper quadrant pain, loss of appetite for the past one month, and high-grade fever for the past three days. On examination, a firm mass in the right hypochondrium and epigastrium, about 4 cm below the right costal margin, was noted, moving with respiration. Blood work showed normal values and normal alpha-fetoprotein levels. An ultrasonogram revealed a cystic lesion, while a contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography (CT) scan showed a large hepatic space-occupying lesion with cystic and solid architecture, with the following differential diagnosis as, embryonal sarcoma and hepatoblastoma. The patient underwent surgery for a hepatic hydatid cyst, and the procedure performed was percutaneous aspiration, irrigation and respiration. Gross examination revealed multiple grey-brown and grey-white fragments with a variegated appearance. Microscopic analysis showed a malignant neoplasm composed of spindle cells, stellate cells, multinucleated giant cells in a myxoid stroma, with many atypical mitoses present. Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) positive eosinophilic hyaline globules were observed in the tumour cell cytoplasm, along with extensive areas of haemorrhage and necrosis. The final diagnosis of embryonal sarcoma was made after a panel of Immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers. The present case is presented here due to its rarity and diagnostic challenge, arising from the lack of a characteristic clinical presentation, serological markers and inconclusive radiological findings.

Ksheerabdhi Sankar, Kuppusamy Anand, Swetha Ramani, Balasubramaniam Gayathri Department of Anesthesiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Potheri, 603203, IndiaCorrespondence: Kuppusamy Anand, Department of Anesthesiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Room No. 206, B Block, Second Floor, Potheri, 603203, India, Tel +91-98652 82288, Email anandk@srmist.edu.inBackground and Aim: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) under epidural anesthesia has been reported to have few advantages over general anesthesia, like lower postoperative pain and less need for analgesics. There are limited studies on PCNL being performed under neuraxial anesthesia in supine position. Hence the present study was conceived to compare hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in the supine position under combined spinal-epidural with general anesthesia (GA).Material and Methods: A prospective, randomized control trial was conducted among 90 patients who were posted to undergo elective percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the the supine position, after obtaining Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC) approval and CTRI (Clinical Trial Registry - India) registration. Patients were randomly allotted to undergo surgery either under general anesthesia (group GA) or combined spinal epidural anesthesia (group CSE) by computer-generated random number method. Hemodynamic parameters, postoperative analgesic requirement and incidence of blood transfusion were recorded and analyzed.Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to gender, ASA grade, surgery duration, calculus size and pulse rate. There was a statistically significant reduction in mean arterial pressure from 5 to 50 minutes of surgery and less incidence of blood transfusion in patients in the CSE group. Patients who underwent PCNL in the supine position under CSE required lesser analgesics postoperatively compared to those under general anesthesia.Conclusion: Combined spinal epidural analgesia can be used as an alternative to general anesthesia for patients undergoing PCNL in the supine position in view of less MAP and reduced postoperative analgesic and blood transfusion requirement.Keywords: pulse rate, mean arterial pressure, percutaneous nephrolithotomy, ureteroscopy, supine position

Raksha Vedavyas, Ravi Saravanan, Gunaseelan Mirunalini, Balasubramaniam Gayathri Department of Anesthesiology, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center, SRMIST, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, IndiaCorrespondence: Gunaseelan Mirunalini, Department of Anesthesiology, SRM MCH RC, SRMIST, No. 219, Second Floor, Block B, SRM Nagar, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India, Tel +91 9486131643, Email mirunalini.gunaseelan@gmail.comIntroduction: The ultrasound-guided infraclavicular brachial plexus block by triple-point injection method was aimed at blocking the three individual cords in the infraclavicular region. Recently, a single-point injection method which does not require visualization of cords to produce nerve block has been introduced. This study compared the block onset time, performance time, patient’s satisfaction, and complications between the ultrasound guided triple-point injection and single-point injection methods.Patients and Method: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. Sixty patients were divided into two groups – Group S: 30 patients received single-point injection method of infraclavicular block. Group T: 30 patients received triple-point injection method of infraclavicular block. Drugs used were 0.5% ropivacaine with 8 mg dexamethasone.Results: The sensory onset time was significantly longer in Group S (11.13 ± 1.83 min) than Group T (6.20 ± 1.19min). No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups regarding mean motor onset time. The composite sensorimotor onset time was similar between the groups. The mean time to perform the block was significantly lesser in Group S (1.35 ± 0.38 min) when compared to group T (3.44 ± 0.61min). The patient satisfaction score, conversion to general anesthesia and complications were not significant among the two groups.Conclusion: We concluded that single-point injection method had a shorter performance time and similar total onset time with less procedural complications compared with triple point injection method.Keywords: ultrasonography, interventional, infraclavicular, anesthesia, ropivacaine, dexamethasone, patient satisfaction

Introduction and Background: Lymphadenopathy is an abnormal increase in size and/ or altered consistency of lymph nodes. The use of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the investigation of lymphadenopathy has become an acceptable and widely practiced minimally invasive technique, which is safe, simple and rapid. The main objective of present study was categorizing various lesions of lymphadenopathy by cytology. Materials and Methods: This was a 2 years and 3 months study done in Department of Pathology, Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences, Madikeri, Karnataka, India. It included 309 patients with lymphadenopathies at various sites. Acellular aspirates were excluded from the study. FNAC was conducted with the help of a 22 guage disposable needle attached to a 5cc syringe. Haematoxylin, Eosin stain & Papanicolaou stains were done on alcohol fixed smears. May-Grunwald Giemsa Stain was done on air-dried smears. Ziehl-Neelsen stain was done when tuberculosis was suspected for the demonstration of acid-fast bacilli. The results were expressed as percentage and were tabulated. Results and Discussion: Maximum number of patients were diagnosed with Reactive Lymphadenitis followed by Granulomatous lymphadenitis. The other lesions were acute suppurative lymphadenitis, Metastatic Lymphadenopathy, Tuberculous Lymphadenitis, Lymphomas and Non -Specific Lymphadenitis. The most common site of lymph node aspiration was cervical group of lymph nodes. The most common malignancy with lymph node metastasis was Squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion: FNA is a convenient, quick and accurate procedure that can be performed in patients attending outpatient department. Reactive lymphadenitis was the most common lesion detected in FNA of lymph nodes in our study with cervical group of lymph nodes being the most commonly affected group.

The present study was conducted in the state of Kerala to analyse the training needs of 100 trainees of five Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK). The findings indicated that the packaging & marketing of mushroom and post harvest handling value addition were the most preferred training areas by the KVK trainees in mushroom production. In apiculture, honey extraction essential operations was perceived as the most needed area of training. In the area of value addition of fruits and vegetables, technology upgradation and packaging marketing techniques were the most preferred areas by the trainees. Relational analysis revealed that socio-economic variables like educational status and annual income, communication variables like extension contact and mass media exposure and entrepreneurial variables like entrepreneurial intention, entrepreneurial need, entrepreneurial capacity, innovativeness, achievement motivation, decision making ability, risk orientation, self confidence, cosmopoliteness and economic motivation were found positively and significantly correlated with training needs. The KVKs should take concrete efforts to organize need based entrepreneurship development training programmes to improve effectiveness.

Background: Pancytopenia is a relatively common hematological entity. It is a striking feature of many serious and life-threatening illnesses, ranging from simple drug-induced bone marrow hypoplasia, megaloblastic anemia to fatal bone marrow aplasias and leukemias. The severity of pancytopenia and the underlying pathology determine the management and prognosis. Thus, identification of the correct cause will help in implementing appropriate therapy. Objectives: To study the clinical presentations in pancytopenia due to various causes; and to evaluate hematological parameters, including bone marrow aspiration. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective study, and 104 pancytopenic patients were evaluated clinically, along with hematological parameters and bone marrow aspiration in Hematology Unit, Department of Pathology, JJMMC, Davanagere, during the period of September 2005 to September 2007. Results: Among 104 cases studied, age of patients ranged from 2 to 80 years with a mean age of 41 years, and male predominance. Most of the patients presented with generalized weakness and fever. The commonest physical finding was pallor, followed by splenomegaly and hepatomegaly. Dimorphic anemia was the predominant blood picture. Bone marrow aspiration was conclusive in all cases. The commonest marrow finding was hypercellularity with megaloblastic erythropoiesis. The commonest cause for pancytopenia was megaloblastic anemia (74.04%), followed by aplastic anemia (18.26%). Conclusion: The present study concludes that detailed primary hematological investigations along with bone marrow aspiration in cytopenic patients are helpful for understanding disease process and to diagnose or to rule out the causes of cytopenia. These are also helpful in planning further investigations and management.

The increasing movement from rural areas to urban areas, along with the widening gap in population, has resulted in metropolitan areas becoming extremely overpopulated. As a result of the high volume of traffic that occurs in these areas, traffic monitoring is an extremely important activity. According to the findings of this study, an improved authentication and communication protocol that is based on clusters could be implemented for Intelligent Transportation Systems in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs). Our number one objective is to enhance the sharing of resources amongst vehicles through improved communication. Cluster-based routing protocols allowed us to increase the scalability, stability, and dependability of fast-moving VANETs. This was accomplished in the context of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications. To easing concerns regarding privacy and safety, we arranged for the vehicles to be certified by an independent contractor. Through the utilization of Graph Neural Networks (GNNs), we can reduce the number of instances in which links fail, as well as minimize end-to-end (E2E) delays and route requests. Our approach has resulted in several important benefits, including enhancements to throughput, reductions in the amount of time required for TCP socket initialization, acceleration of TCP handshake response, and DNS lookup. Shortrange peer-to-peer wireless communication is the focus of the protocols that are used within a cluster that is 400 meters in radius. Utilizing new peer-to-peer wireless communications over VANET is what is meant by the term resource-conserving in this context. Within the framework of the suggested protocol secure authentication method, a certifying authority is responsible for the generation of a secure authentication key for the vehicle, which is subsequently provided to the vehicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted during the rabi 2022-23 season to investigate the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of quinoa. It was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Results revealed that application of different sources of manures either alone or in combination with fertilizer and biofertilizers application significantly affected the growth and yield of quinoa. Application of treatment 50 per cent nitrogen dose (ND) + 50 per cent N through vermicompost (VC) + seed treatment (Azotobacter + PSB) in comparison to application of 100 per cent fertilizer dose observed significantly higher plant height (134.85 cm), number of branches (24.56 plant-1), dry matter production (23.82g plant-1), leaf area (583.73 cm2 plant-1), panicle length (39.54 cm), harvest index (45.01), grain yield (1814.87 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2217.13 kg ha-1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edge computing has emerged as a potential solution to some of the challenges in healthcare. It involves processing data closer to the source, such as medical devices and sensors, rather than relying solely on centralized data centers or cloud computing. This approach offers advantages like reduced latency, real-time decision-making, and enhanced privacy protection. Efficient privacy-preserving medical diagnosis on edge computing platforms is a concept deeply rooted in the intersection of healthcare and technology. Over the years, medical diagnosis has increasingly relied on machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of patient data. These algorithms can predict diseases, identify anomalies in medical images, and offer personalized treatment recommendations. However, a significant challenge in this domain is the protection of patient data privacy. Healthcare data is incredibly sensitive, and data breaches or unauthorized access can result in severe consequences, including identity theft and discrimination. Therefore, this research work tackles several key issues. First and foremost, it aims to ensure the privacy of medical data throughout the diagnosis process. This means developing machine learning models and algorithms that can make accurate predictions while safeguarding the sensitive information contained in patient records. Additionally, these models must be highly efficient to operate effectively within the resource-constrained environment of edge computing platforms. Further, real-time processing is a critical requirement in healthcare, especially for conditions that demand immediate attention. Hence, this work strives to provide timely results to healthcare providers. Furthermore, the models must maintain a high level of accuracy and reliability to instill trust in the medical community and ensure that patients receive the best possible care. Ultimately, this research aligns with the goal of patient-centric care. It empowers patients to have more control over their data, share it securely with healthcare providers, and receive real-time decision support, all while preserving their privacy and the integrity of their medical information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Icosahedral closo-dodecaboranes have the ability to accept two electrons, opening into a dianionic nido-cluster. This transformation can be utilized to store electrons, drive bond activation, or alter coordination to metal cations. In this feature article, we present cases for each of these applications, wherein the redox activity of carborane facilitates the generation of unique products. We highlight the effects of exohedral substituents on reactivity and the stability of the products through conjugation between the cluster and exohedral substituents. Futher, the utilization of the redox properties and geometry of carborane clusters in the ligand design is detailed, both in the stabilization of low-valent complexes and in the tuning of ligand geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial fuel cells (MFC) and microbial electrolysis cells (MEC) are developing as sustainable power source technologies that can be utilized for feasible wastewater treatment and hydrogen production. Hydrogen gas has immense potential as an ecologically adequate energy carrier for vehicles. MFC is bioelectrochemical process that utilize microorganism as the impetuses to oxidize organic and inorganic matter and create electricity, whereas MEC are a reactor for biohydrogen production by combining MFC and electrolysis. MEC and MFC have been the cleanest, eco-friendly, and efficient method for biohydrogen production. The basic mechanism and thermodynamic principles involved in the production of hydrogen have been discussed in brief. Effective factors influencing H2 production such as microbial population, electrodes, membrane, and substrate were elaborated and recent advances in the factors have been explored for the better understanding of developing MFC and MEC technology-based hydrogen generation. This review completes a brief outline of topical advances in the MFC, MEC setup, and different operational parameters which influencing hydrogen production (ionic strength, applied voltage, organic loading, and hydraulic retention time). The review describes the current challenges involved in the technology used and provides effective future perspectives for overcoming the limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent worldwide and its association with stress has become an emerging problem. A collection of linked physiological, biochemical, clinical, and metabolic risk factors is known as the Metabolic Syndrome (MS). High stress level is found associated with vitamin D deficiency and features of metabolic syndrome symptoms. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, perceived stress, metabolic syndrome and hepatic steatosis among health science Undergraduate (UG) students and also to evaluate the association of vitamin D with percieved stress score, calcium, phosphorus, components of metabolic syndrome and indicators of liver steatosis. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in SRM Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Chennai, India, from February 2022 to August 2022. A total of 80 health science UG students in the age group of 19-25 years were included. The parameters included Fasting plasma glucose, Triglycerides (TGL), High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDLC), Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT), phosphorus, calcium, and a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score scale. Data were statistically analysed using Pearson's correlation test and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the relationship of vitamin D with stress, metabolic syndrome and liver steatosis. Results: In the present study, majority 56 (70%) had vitamin D deficiency, 23 (28.75%) had insufficiency and 1 (1.25%) had sufficiency. An estimated 6 (7.5%) of students experienced low stress, 63 (78.75%) experienced moderate stress and 11 (13.75%) experienced high perceived stress. Indicators of metabolic syndrome occurred in 13 (16.25%) of the population. Nearly 6 (7.5%) of the participants displayed manifestation of fatty liver. A negative association was found between vitamin D with stress score, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, Blood Pressure (BP), phosphorus, fasting plasma glucose, TGL, HDLC, GGT, Fatty Liver Index (FLI) score. Conclusion: In the present study, vitamin D deficiency was most prevalent (70%), followed by metabolic syndrome, high stress and hepatic steatosis. Vitamin D showed a negative correlation with stress score, BMI, waist circumference, BP, phosphorous, fasting plasma glucose, TGL, HDLC, GGT and FLI score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Successful rehabilitation of a dentition having a poor prognosis with implant-supported fixed prosthesis is a multi-stage process involving an edentulous period before prosthetic rehabilitation of the patient. The period of transformation from natural teeth to fixed implant prosthesis is sometimes not accepted by the patients. This concept has been in clinical use since 1998. This treatment is cost-effective and time-saving in order to rehabilitate patients with an interim prosthesis in which 4 implants were placed two placed vertically in the anterior region and two placed up to an angle of 45 degrees in the posterior region. Purpose: To evaluate Knowledge, Attitude and Practice among Dental practitioners about the "All on four" Concept of Dental implants practicing in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, Maharashtra, India. Methods: This quantitative-type descriptive survey was conducted between February to April 2022 in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, Maharashtra, India. A self-designed, pre-tested and validated questionnaire assessing the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice among Dental practitioners about the "All on four" Concept of Dental implants. Data were collected and entered into a spreadsheet (Excel 2010: Microsoft office) and analyzed using SPSS software (version 19-SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL, USA). Results: All 205 participants responded. When asked if dental practitioners considered the "All on four" concept a viable option 74.1% of practitioners (152) agreed while about 25.9% of practitioners (53) did not agree on the same Conclusion: Despite the presence of knowledge and attitude among dental practitioners the presence of practice among practitioners seems to be insufficient towards the "All on Four Implant" Concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The objectives of study were to assess the knowledge, awareness and management of mucormycosis among Prosthodontists working in dental hospitals/teaching institutions in Pune, India. and to find out the association between the level of knowledge, awareness and management of mucormycosis and selected demographic variables. Methods: Descriptive survey was done through online questionnaire using Google forms software distributed to all 98 participants of six dental hospitals/teaching institutions in Pune through their Mail-Id. The data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical software, version 19.0. Results: All the 98 participants responded, though only less than half of the population (48% from age group 20-30 years) was aware about that infection will not transmit from dentist to dentist. Statistically significant differences in knowledge about mucormycosis among the various highly experienced and designated doctors and residents were found as level of knowledge increased with the seniority. The study also shows that more than half about 63% of participants have rehabilitated the case of mucormycosis and among them 40% people observed some kind of difficulties for impression making or fitting of prosthesis. Conclusion: Though our study showed average number of participants have adequate knowledge about mucormycosis, only more than half of the population particularly from age group 20-30 years was having less knowledge and awareness. Hence, our study concludes that there is a need for an increased awareness among young prosthodontist regarding the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counterfeit drugs are without a doubt becoming a greater hazard to consumers and the pharmaceutical sector. As a result, real-time visibility of drug manufacturing and management is required. The proposed system uses Ethereum blockchain as the main technology. The primary advantage of blockchain technology is that the transactions are maintained in immutable digital ledger format and it may be read easily without jeopardizing the users' security and privacy. In our proposed system, the admin validates and adds the manufacturers. The manufacturer after registering and logging in can perform tasks like adding the drug and seller list. The seller can place order to the manufacturer which the manufacturer can accept or reject. The seller can update status of order of accepted orders to delivered. The customer can view the order details by entering the serial number on the drug package. Any transaction or exchange that occurs in the network is recorded in the chain. It functions similarly to other networks, but blockchain technology is distinguished by the fact that no data can be removed or altered by anyone in the network. No changes to the network can be made unless it has been validated by all of the network's authorized users. All the information stored can be read by anybody so to incorporate more security, AES has been used to store data in the blockchain. The use of AES encryption technique distinguishes this system from all the existing implementations. Thus, this makes it easy to trace to the exact point in the supply chain and detect any counterfeit drugs in movement. As an extension to the drug counterfeit prevention system a Drug Recommendation System is also performed using the ensemble model with a combination of Random Forest and Logistic Regression for sentiment analysis training. Furthermore, when compared to the existing Linear SVM model, which has an accuracy of 90.39%, the suggested model has the best accuracy of 93.31%. Using the obtained sentiment for each drug, the drug is predicted accurately for the specified medical condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glottal instants namely GCIs and GOIs are useful in a wide variety of speech processing and biomedical applications. This paper presents the recent developments in the methodologies for glottal activity detection using EGG and speech signals. The databases used by the researchers are APLAWD, SAM, KEELE and BDL. The methodologies are compared in terms of identification rate, miss rate, and false alarm rate and identification accuracy. The applications in which these methods are employed are also presented. It is observed that many researches are conducted to identify the glottal activity based on the speech signal rather than the EGG signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A graph G with p vertices and q edges is called a k-mean labeling (k-ML) if there is an injective function f from the vertices of G to {0, 1, 2,. .., k + q - 1} such that when each edge uv is labeled with f*(uv) = ... then the resulting edge labels {k, k + 1, k + 2,. .., k + q - 1} are all distinct. A graph that admits k-mean labeling is called a k-mean graph(k-MG). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute fever with thrombocytopenia is commonly encountered by physicians especially during monsoon and perimonsoon period. Infection is the most common cause of fever associated with thrombocytopenia. Commonly includes dengue, malaria, scrub typhus, rickettsia and other certain viral infections. Since Vitamin B12 is essential for hemopoiesis, this study was intended to know the correlation of vitamin B12 levels with the febrile thrombocytopenia. Methods: This is a prospective observational study done in 113 patients presented with acute febrile illness with thrombocytopenia. Detailed clinical and laboratory evaluation was done to know the etiology and vitamin B12 levels is assessed. Results: Among 113 patients, 72 were male and 41 were female. Undetermined fever was the most common cause of febrile thrombocytopenia followed by dengue. 28 subjects were Vitamin B12 deficient. Severity of thrombocytopenia was more in subjects of Vitamin B12 level <200 pg/L. Number of RDP transfused was more in subjects with vitamin B12<200 pg/L group. Mean duration of hospital stay was more in Vitamin B12 deficient subjects. There was no correlation with mortality with vitamin B12 level. Conclusion: This study suggests that Vitamin B12 deficiency associated with more severe thrombocytopenia, prolonged hospital stay and increased RDP transfusion in patients of acute febrile thrombocytopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Corona virus disease 2019 (covid-19) is a novel disease caused by a newly identified virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (sars-cov-2). The novel disease which begun in Wuhan, China in Dec 2019 was declared pandemic by world health organization on 11 march 2020. The most common reported reasons for intensive care unit admission for patients with severe corona virus disease 2019 (covid-19) are either hypoxemic respiratory failure leading to mechanical ventilation or hypotension requiring vasopressor support. Data on AKI are either lacking in this perspective, we emphasize that AKI can be a severe complication of covid-19 and highlight the importance of assessing, defining, and reporting the course of AKI in patients admitted in intensive care unit. Methods: This is a single centre retrospective observational study. 542 patients with real time-PCR and rapid antigen test confirmed COVID 19 infection admitted in KIMS intensive care unit, Hubballi were taken for study. Patients with chronic kidney disease were excluded from the study. Clinical examination and laboratory investigations including renal function test, liver function test, complete blood count, chest x-ray, d-dimer, ferritin, LDH, CRP was done for all the patients. Duration: 1 year (2020 August -2021 July) Results: Out of 542 patients, 166 patients developed acute kidney injury accounting for 30.62 %. 145 patients died (87.47) who had acute kidney injury. And 27 patients were discharged (12.6%) who recovered from acute kidney injury. Results: Among the patients who did not developed AKI( 376) . 300(79.81) died and 76(20.2) got discharged. The p value was 0.034 which was significant for increase in mortality among patients who developed AKI. The incidence of mortality among COVID patient admitted to KIMS ICU was 82.1%. Conclusion: The mortality was significantly higher in COVID patients developing AKI. So we can predict the outcome in COVID infected patients who develops acute kidney injury. AKI is one of manifestation in COVID patients due to tropism of corona virus to ace receptors present in kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The importance of feedback from medical students to improve the quality of teaching methods and their effectiveness has been extensively studied. However, there remains a need for further exploration of the feedback of medical students during their ENT clinical rotation. Therefore, this study aims to examine the feedback of Phase II medical students during their ENT clinical rotation in a tertiary care teaching hospital. In this study, we investigated the medical students' perceptions regarding the quality of the ENT clinical rotation program, including the methods of teaching, clinical exposure, and support provided by clinical supervisors. Methodology: This Descriptive Qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 142 phase II medical students using a Semi-structured Questionnaire. Results: Our findings suggest that although most of the students (~90%) were satisfied with the level of skill and clinical training provided during the rotation, 92% identified a gap between the clinical rotation and theory. This discrepancy can be addressed by adding a few hours of ENT theory sessions to the Phase II curriculum, which can run simultaneously with the clinical rotation. The students also felt that attending clinical sessions regularly increases their confidence. When asked for ideas to improve their participation, most of the responses were to increase the exposure of students to cases and increase OR visits and clinical discussions. Conclusion: This cross-sectional survey helped us understand the mindset of the students attending the clinical rotation and thereby wishes to change our approach, making sure every student who attends the ENT clinical rotation postings is heard and attended to.

Background: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) remains the most effective modality of treatment in many major mental health disorders, which calls for a rapid response. However, the media’s portrayal of ECT as inhumane has resulted in a flawed opinion among public and reduced exposure has led to lesser knowledge about ECT among the medical health professionals working in a nonpsychiatric setting. Aims: To assess the knowledge and attitude toward ECT among MBBS students doing internship. Design and Setting: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the department of psychiatry in a tertiary care teaching institute. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted among 100 MBBS students who were undergoing internship from a tertiary teaching hospital. The students were recruited from various clinical postings, and after obtaining informed consent, their knowledge and attitude toward ECT was assessed. Statistical Analysis: SPSS version 20.0 was used. Results: Majority (59%) of the students rated their psychiatry knowledge as minimal and around 70% reported to have minimal knowledge regarding ECT. 73% of the study population felt that ECT was used to control violent patients. Almost 91% of the students felt that they needed more exposure toward ECT in their undergraduate curriculum. Conclusion: MBBS interns had some knowledge about ECT; however, they still have some misconceptions and negative attitudes about the treatment. Novel teaching strategies could be inculcated in the existing curriculum which could help with more exposure and better understanding of the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosa [11] introduced the notion of graceful labelings. The concept of magic, antimagic and conservative labelings have been extended to directed graphs [9]. Bloom and Hsu [3,4,5] extended the notion of graceful labeling to directed graph. In 1985, Lo [10] introduced the notion of edge-graceful graphs. We introduced the concept of edge-graceful labelings to directed graphs and further studied in [15,16,17,18,19,20]. In this paper we investigate directed edge-graceful labeling of one point union of m-copies of path graph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hevea brasiliensis (HB) flower particulates were filled high‐density poly ethylene (HDPE) composite was molded through a vertical injection molding process. The molded composite specimens were carried out X‐ray powder diffraction analysis and found the HB filler crystal size of 12.63 nm. The morphology of the HB/HDPE composite was analyzed through field emission scanning electron microscope and the presence of different elements was found through energy dispersive X‐ray. The HB/HDPE composite was carried out thermo gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetric, and found its melting point and its degradation. The HB/HDPE composite was carried out and found its mechanical properties. The observed result suggests that the newly developed composites could be used for low‐strength applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Thrombotic microangiopathy encompasses a wide range of conditions, of which thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura being a medical emergency requires prompt intervention, with schistocytes being a reliable morphological indicator of microvascular injury. However, there are conditions other than thrombotic microangiopathic anemia where schistocytes can be seen in large numbers. These nonthrombotic microangiopathic conditions are broadly grouped under cytoskeletal abnormalities, mechanical damage, and thermal injuries. Automated methods in schistocyte evaluation have shown varied reproducibility requiring manual identification. International Council for Standardization in Hematology (ICSH) recommends standardized morphological criteria and quantitative assessment as a percentage after counting at least 1,000 red blood cells in optimal areas of smear to reduce interobserver variability.

Scheduling workflows on the cloud is recognised to be an NP-complete problem. But metaheuristic algorithms have been successfully tweaked to deal with this issue in a more efficient manner. Grey wolf optimization (GWO) is a fascinating new metaheuristic approach proposed recently for dealing with continuous optimization issues. Here, we propose the IGWO algorithm as a chaotic-theory-enhanced replacement for the GWO method. The proposed strategy has the potential to prevent the system from settling into a local optimum and speed up the rate at which the GWO converges. Using the CloudSim simulator, we simulate the proposed workflow scheduling system, and the results show that our solution is superior to the alternatives in terms of energy efficiency, cost, and maketime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is the major inorganic component of natural bone which exhibits better biocompatibility with various kinds of cells and tissues, making it an ideal candidate for dental and orthopedic applications. The naturally extracted HAp (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) from fish scale and seashell is exactly matched with the chemical composition of bone minerals. Nowadays, soft chemistry is used for the synthesis of bioceramics such as HAp. This is a chemical route that yields more homogeneous solid-state materials. In this study, the extracted powder from fish scale and seashell was heated in the furnace and maintained at 700°C for 3 hours and the powder was naturally cooled. The derived CaO was used for preparing HAp by the microwave irradiation techniques. The HAp was filled with High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) in the ratio of 10:3 (Matrix 100 g: Filler 30 g) and composite was fabricated by the injection molding. The functional groups present in the HAp-HDPE specimen was identified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis. The thermal stability of 30 wt. % HAp-HDPE composite was analyzed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). In vitro cytotoxicity studies were carried out using MG63 cell line. In these studies, five different volumes of liquid extracts of the prepared HAp-HDPE specimen having different concentrations (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 μl) were allowed to interact with fresh cell culture medium for 24 hours. The cell morphology, cell viability, and the levels of cytotoxicity of the composite specimen were studied as per 10993:12, and ISO 10993:5 test standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]