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The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is the most expensive of all routinely recommended pediatric vaccines. Adequate cost reimbursement by 3rd-party payers is a critical enabling factor for clinicians to continue offering vaccines. This study found that net returns from HPV vaccine cost reimbursements are lowest for family physicians ($0.34/dose) and highest for pediatricians ($5.08/dose). Furthermore, a $1 increment in return was associated with an increase in HPV vaccine doses administered (highest for family physicians; 0.08% per dollar). Reimbursement for HPV vaccine costs by private payers is adequate; however, return margins are small for non-pediatric specialties., (© 2023 Annals of Family Medicine, Inc.)

Abstract Individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 may develop post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (“long COVID”) even after asymptomatic or mild acute illness. Including time varying COVID symptom severity can provide more informative burden estimates for public health response. Using a compartmental model driven by confirmed cases, this study estimated long COVID burden by age group (0–4, 5–17, 18–49, 50–64, 65+) in California as measured by the cumulative and severity-specific proportion of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) lost. Long COVID symptoms were grouped into severe, moderate, and mild categories based on estimates from the Global Burden of Disease study, and symptoms were assumed to decrease in severity in the model before full recovery. All 10,945,079 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported to the California Department of Public Health between March 1, 2020, and December 31, 2022, were included in the analysis. Most estimated long COVID-specific QALYs [59,514 (range: 10,372–180,257)] lost in California were concentrated in adults 18–49 (31,592; 53.1%). Relative to other age groups, older adults (65+) lost proportionally more QALYs from severe long COVID (1,366/6,984; 20%). Due to changing case ascertainment over time, this analysis might underestimate the actual total burden. In global sensitivity analysis, estimates of QALYs lost were most sensitive to the proportion of individuals that developed long COVID and proportion of cases with each initial level of long COVID symptom severity (mild/moderate/severe). Models like this analysis can help translate observable metrics such as cases and hospitalizations into quantitative estimates of long COVID burden that are currently difficult to directly measure. Unlike the observed relationship between age and incident severe outcomes for COVID-19, this study points to the potential cumulative impact of mild long COVID symptoms in younger individuals.

Background and aim: To compare the marginal and internal adaptation of full veneer crowns cast from wax patterns fabricated by three-dimensional printing and conventional wax-up technique employing two different convergence angles.Material and methods: Two metal master dies, each with a convergence angle of 6 and 12-degrees, were duplicated 24 times to obtain 48 stone dies. Twelve dies from each group were randomly chosen for conventional wax-up (Group A) and the other twelve for the three-dimensional printed wax pattern (Group B) fabrication. Cobalt-chromium full veneer crowns were cemented onto the dies using glass ionomer cement. The cemented crowns and dies were sectioned in the midline buccolingually to measure the marginal and internal gaps using a stereomicroscope and digital image analysis software (Image J). Data obtained were recorded in microns, and an independent 't' test was used to compare quantitative parameters between categories.Results: Group B showed a statistically significant reduction in marginal discrepancy in crowns with a 6-degree taper (114.4 ± 37.5) compared to Group A (160.4 ±58.1). Group B did not demonstrate any significant difference when the 6-degree and 12-degree tapers were compared, but Group A showed a significant improvement in marginal and internal adaptation with the 12-degree taper.Conclusions: For the 6-degree taper, three-dimensional printing resulted in better marginal and internal fit than conventional wax patterns. Conventional and three-dimensional Printing offered similar accuracy within the acceptable range for a 12-degree taper.

Background: Sepsis is responsible for 30-40% neonatal deaths which can be attributed to various maternal, neonatal and sociocultural risk factors. Objective: To recognize the clinical and laboratory risk factors of mortality in extramural neonatal sepsis. Material and methods: Prospective observational study was conducted for duration of one year on extramural neonates with suspected sepsis. Maternal, neonatal and sociocultural factors were analyzed. Results: Average duration of hospital stay was shorter in non-survival compared to survival neonates (p=0.01). On univariate analysis preterm (p 18 hours were the significant risk factors of mortality. Those neonates admitted with lethargy (p=0.04), hypothermia (p=0.01), respiratory distress (p

Introduction: Kidney diseases have shown a rising upward trend in the last few decades due to the increase in incidence of associated chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension. However the frequency and spectrum of renal pathology in autopsy specimens is not well documented or overlooked by physicians as well as pathologists. Aim: To analyse the spectrum of various types of renal pathologies, based on the histopathological analysis of renal tissue where autopsies were performed routinely with no history of renal diseases. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out over a period of two years from June 2021 to June 2023 in the Department of Pathology of SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha, India, and consisted of 84 cases of well-preserved renal autopsies. The autopsy samples were routinely processed and stained by Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and then reported. Special stain of Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) was done. Gross and microscopic findings were studied. The study was compared with other relevant studies. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel 2019. Results: A total of 84 cases were included in the study. The male:female ratio was 1.27:1. The age group with the highest number of cases (35 cases) was 21-40 years. Among the 84 cases the commonest pathology was seen in tubules (40 cases, 47.62%) and glomeruli (7 cases, 8.33%), followed by vascular pathologies (5 cases, 5.95%) and interstitial lesions (4 cases, 4.76%). Renal cell carcinoma was incidentally detected in two cases and Wilms tumour in one case. Five cases had normal histology. Conclusion: The study illuminates the various renal lesions on autopsy and showed tubular lesions were more common than glomerular lesions in renal autopsy. Renal lesions are more common in males. The focus should be to develop more effective diagnostic methods for renal lesions so that intervention can be fast and sharp resulting in less mortality.

Background: Akara, Ukara, Makara (OUM) chanting regulates emotions and removes negative emotions by inactivating the processing in the amygdala. At the same time, the prefrontal complex was inhibited followed by chanting OUM. Further, there was an increase in the oxygenation levels followed by chanting OUM. Hence, OUM chanting has multiple benefits and offers improvement in the quality of life. Though there are multiple benefits followed by chanting OUM, the scientific evidence for the same is comparatively less. Hence, there is a need for more studies in this area. Aims and Objectives: The present study aimed to find out the variations in the perceived stress, negative affectivity, and social inhibition in pre-hypertensive individuals and also to observe the effectiveness of Om chanting on perceived stress, negative affectivity, and social inhibition in pre-hypertensive individuals. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted at the St Peter’s Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Hosur, Tamil Nadu, India. A total of 50 young adults with pre-hypertension were recruited in the study after obtaining written informed consent. Age- and gender-matched 50 healthy participants were recruited after obtaining the voluntary, informed consent. Diamond digital sphygmomanometer was used to record the blood pressure. All the parameters were recorded at 9 am for the convenience of the participants and also to avoid diurnal variation. The perceived stress scale was used to assess the stress levels. Negative affectivity and social inhibition were recorded using a type D (DS-14) questionnaire. Cases practiced the OUM chanting for 6 weeks after they were trained by an expert yoga therapist. Results: Perceived stress scores were significantly decreased followed by the OUM chanting. There was a significant decrease in the scores of negative affectivity of cases after the intervention when compared with control group participants. There was a significant decrease in the scores of social inhibition of cases after the intervention when compared with control group participants. Conclusion: Perceived stress, negative affectivity, and social inhibition were significantly higher in the pre-hypertensive individuals. The study results provide further evidence that practicing OUM chanting causes stress relief and also decreases the negative emotions that is negative affectivity and social inhibition in pre-hypertensive individuals.

Introduction: Ocular manifestations of Haemodialysis (HD) are one of the important causes of morbidity in End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients. According to studies, the incidence rate of glaucoma in the dialysis group was higher than that in the non dialysis group. Angle-closure glaucoma was found to be more common, which depends on anterior chamber morphology. Aim: To assess the effect of HD on Intraocular Pressure (IOP), Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD), and Lens Thickness (LT) in patients with ESRD. Materials and Methods: This was a single-centre crosssectional observational study conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology on 170 eyes of 87 patients undergoing HD for at least three months. The study was conducted between October 2020 and October 2022 at the Dialysis Centre of Bharati Vidyapeeth (DTU) Medical College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India. These patients underwent ophthalmological evaluation pre- and postdialysis. IOP, ACD, and LT were measured 30 minutes prior to and 30 minutes after the HD session. The paired t-test was used to compare differences in means, and a p-value of

Introduction: Atraumatic extraction is necessary when a patient undergoes dental implant rehabilitation. Various tooth extraction systems are used and regularly upgraded. The periotome is a tool that severes the Periodontal Ligaments (PDL) and aids in atraumatic extraction while preserving the socket. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of conventional forceps versus periotome extractions of single-rooted maxillary teeth in terms of socket preservation, procedure duration, and postoperative pain. Materials and Methods: This was a single-blinded randomised clinical trial conducted at Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, Maharastra, India from December 2020 to March 2021 involved 42 patients aged 18-60 years who required extraction of maxillary single-rooted teeth that had failed endodontic treatment. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: a periotome group and a conventional forceps group. Clinical assessment was conducted to evaluate socket preservation, extraction time, postoperative pain, and any complications related to the extraction procedure. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-square test, and unpaired t-test. Results: The majority of patients were within the age group of 51-60 years, with 13 males and 29 females. The difference in extraction time between the two groups was not statistically significant (p=0.368). The periotome group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of buccal cortical plate fractures compared to the conventional forceps group (p=0.048). Regarding the severity of postoperative pain, the periotome group demonstrated a significantly lower value than the conventional forceps group (p=0.028). Conclusions: The periotome proved to be a more efficient choice for preserving the socket in endodontically non treatable teeth requiring extraction, as compared to conventional forceps.

Background: Globally, oral cavity lesions are a serious public health issue. Premalignant lesions of the oral cavity, such as leukoplakia, erythroplakia, and oral submucous fibrosis, are common in India and are strongly associated with tobacco and betel nut use. These lesions have the potential to transform into malignancies, with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) being the predominant type of oral cancer. Early detection and effective management of early malignant lesions are crucial to improving the prognosis for patients. Histopathological examination is a standard procedure used to identify these lesions. Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study is to examine the histopathology of premalignant and malignant lesions of the oral cavity, taking into account age, sex, site distribution, and their association with tobacco consumption. Materials and Methods: The study was a prospective, observational study carried out over a period of 3 years on patients with lesions of the oral cavity in a Government Medical College of Northern Odisha. Biopsies were obtained, fixed, and routinely processed. Sections were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin. The final diagnosis was based on clinical, gross, and microscopic findings. The data was collected and analyzed. Results: Out of a total of 197 oral biopsies, 79 cases were malignant lesions, and 35 cases were pre-malignant lesions. The highest incidence of both pre-malignant and malignant lesions was observed in the age group of 51–60 years, with a male predominance. The buccal mucosa was the most affected site. The most frequent type of malignant lesion was well-differentiated SCC, while hyperkeratosis without dysplasia was the most common type of pre-malignant lesion. Conclusion: Cancers of the oral cavity are surface malignancies whose signs and symptoms can be recognized early. The most common subsite of cancer is the gingivobuccal complex, and site-specific carcinoma is often due to the use of tobacco and betel quid, as they are typically placed in the gingivobuccal sulcus. The occurrence of carcinoma can be minimized by creating public awareness regarding high-risk habits.

Background Biostatistics, epidemiology, and vital statistics are an essential part of evidence-based medicine. They are used to generate results and analyze collected data. They are considered to be an important component of research study design for medical professionals. Medical students need to be able to understand such evidence and how it is presented in the literature, as well as be able to make decisions about patient care based on this. Past studies have noted that students find biostatistics difficult when compared with other components of the community medicine module, including epidemiology and vital statistics. The aim of this study was to assess how difficult students find biostatistics, epidemiology and vital statistics, assessing each topic individually and overall, as all three are taught to medical students under the community medicine module in medical schools. Secondly, we assessed if there was any difference in difficulty based on gender.

Abstract Machine learning applied to digital pathology has been increasingly used to assess kidney function and diagnose the underlying cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We developed a novel computational framework, clustering-based spatial analysis (CluSA), that leverages unsupervised learning to learn spatial relationships between local visual patterns in kidney tissue. This framework minimizes the need for time-consuming and impractical expert annotations. 107,471 histopathology images obtained from 172 biopsy cores were used in the clustering and in the deep learning model. To incorporate spatial information over the clustered image patterns on the biopsy sample, we spatially encoded clustered patterns with colors and performed spatial analysis through graph neural network. A random forest classifier with various groups of features were used to predict CKD. For predicting eGFR at the biopsy, we achieved a sensitivity of 0.97, specificity of 0.90, and accuracy of 0.95. AUC was 0.96. For predicting eGFR changes in one-year, we achieved a sensitivity of 0.83, specificity of 0.85, and accuracy of 0.84. AUC was 0.85. This study presents the first spatial analysis based on unsupervised machine learning algorithms. Without expert annotation, CluSA framework can not only accurately classify and predict the degree of kidney function at the biopsy and in one year, but also identify novel predictors of kidney function and renal prognosis.

Somatic Y chromosome loss in hematopoietic cells is associated with higher mortality in men. However, the status of the Y chromosome in cancer tissue is not fully known due to technical limitations, such as difficulties in labelling and sequencing DNA from the Y chromosome. We have developed a system to quantify Y chromosome gain or loss in patient-derived prostate cancer organoids. Using our system, we observed Y chromosome loss in 4 of the 13 (31%) patient-derived metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) organoids; interestingly, loss of Yq (long arm of the Y chromosome) was seen in 38% of patient-derived organoids. Additionally, potential associations were observed between mCRPC and Y chromosome nullisomy. The prevalence of Y chromosome loss was similar in primary and metastatic tissue, suggesting that Y chromosome loss is an early event in prostate cancer evolution and may not a result of drug resistance or organoid derivation. This study reports quantification of Y chromosome loss and gain in primary and metastatic prostate cancer tissue and lays the groundwork for further studies investigating the clinical relevance of Y chromosome loss or gain in mCRPC.

IntroductionThe Government of Tamil Nadu, India, mandated wearing face masks in public places to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. We established face mask surveillance and estimated the prevalence of appropriate mask use (covering the nose, mouth, and chin) in the slums and non-slums of Chennai at different time points in 2021.MethodsWe conducted three serial cross-sectional surveys in the outdoors and indoors of Chennai in March, July, and October 2021. We observed the mask wearing among 3200 individuals in the outdoors and 1280 in the indoors. We divided the outdoor and indoor locations into slums and non-slums. In October 2021, we also surveyed 150 individuals from each of the 11 shopping malls in the city. We calculated the proportions and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) for the appropriate mask use in the outdoor, indoor, and malls by age, gender, region, and setting (slum and non-slum).ResultsWe observed 3200 individuals in the outdoor and 1280 individuals in the indoor setting, each from a slum and non-slum, during the three rounds of the study. In outdoor and indoors, males comprised three-fourths and middle-aged individuals were half the study population. Mask compliance changed significantly with time (p-value ConclusionThe mask compliance in Chennai outdoors during the COVID-19 pandemic was less than 50%, with variations across time points by gender, age groups, and geographical locations. We must develop more effective communication strategies for older age groups and crowded indoor settings.

Abstract Early Infant Diagnosis of HIV infection services are crucial for managing the perinatally acquired HIV infection. Assessing the performance of the EID services and its underlying determinants is important for the National AIDS Control Program, India. The objectives of this study were to find out access to HIV testing, the timeliness of the testing cascade, and the proportion of HIV exposed infants who are followed up to 18 months for a definitive diagnosis of HIV. The study design was a mixed method. A total of 11 states accounting for 80% of HIV-positive pregnant women were selected. Program records from a total of 62 Integrated counselling and testing centres (ICTCs) served as the source of information. The qualitative component included interviews of program managers at the state and district level, service providers at the ICTC level, and caregivers of HIV exposed infants. In the sampled 62 ICTCs, 78% of the HIV exposed infants had at least one HIV test. Of the infants who had HIV tests, 50% had at first sample collected by 8 weeks of age. The median turnaround time from sample collection to DNA PCR testing was 36 (IQR 19–70) days and that to next sample collection in case of detection of virus in the first sample was 66 (IQR 55–116) days. At 18 months of age, 544 (62%) HIV exposed infants were retained in the EID testing cascade. A total of 30 infants were diagnosed with HIV at a median age of 421 (IQR 149–650) days. More than three fourth of the HIV exposed infants had access to early infant diagnosis (EID) services. Both demand and supply-side factors contribute to access, timeliness and retention and there is a need to address these factors.

Quercetin can help with a variety of health problems. Most methods for measuring quercetin in biological fluids are characterized by low sensitivity and selectivity. The employment of metal–organic frameworks in sensor applications with carbon-based materials ushers in a new era. In this study, blue fluorescent graphene quantum dots (GQDs) embedded in a UiO-66-NH2 metal–organic framework-based nanoprobe (GQDs@UiO-66-NH2) were constructed for quercetin sensing. Initially, maize husk was used to produce blue fluorescent GQDs, whereas zirconium tetrachloride and 2-aminoterephthalic acid were used to synthesize extremely luminous UiO-66-NH2. The addition of quercetin to GQDs@UiO-66-NH2 leads to fluorescence dampening due to the adsorption potential of UiO-66-NH2. The complexation of zirconium ions with the 3-OH and 4-C＝O functionalities of quercetin resulted in fluorescence quenching. The sensor has a linear concentration range and limit of detection for quercetin of 50–500 and 2.82 ng/mL, respectively. The nanoprobe’s usefulness for quercetin detection was then validated by a selectivity investigation in the presence of interfering chemicals. Furthermore, the percentage relative standard deviations were 4.20% and 2.90%, respectively, indicating great stability and repeatability. Fluorescence “Turn-On–Off” nanoprobes provide a simple, quick, sensitive, and selective method for monitoring quercetin.

Abstract Proteinuria is a risk factor for and consequence of kidney injury. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) is an emerging reno-protective target and is anti-proteinuric under pathological conditions, including high salt-fed obese animals. However, the mechanisms remain unknown, particularly whether the anti-proteinuric activity of AT2R is independent of its anti-hypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, obese Zucker rats were fed high sodium (4%) diet (HSD) for 48 h, a time in which blood pressure does not change. HSD caused proteinuria without affecting glomerular slit diaphragm proteins (nephrin and podocin), glomerular filtration rate, inflammatory and fibrotic markers (TNFα, IL-6, and TGF-β), ruling out glomerular injury, inflammation and fibrosis but indicating tubular mechanisms of proteinuria. At cellular and molecular levels, we observed a glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β-mediated megalin phosphorylation, and its subsequent endocytosis and lysosomal degradation in HSD-fed rat kidneys. Megalin is a major proximal tubular endocytic protein transporter. The AT2R agonist C21 (0.3 mg/kg/day, i.p.) administration prevented proteinuria and rescued megalin surface expression potentially by activating Akt-mediated phosphorylation and inactivation of GSK-3β in HSD-fed rat kidneys. Overall, AT2R has a direct anti-proteinuric activity, potentially via megalin regulation, and is suggested as a novel target to limit kidney injury.

Abstract Graph theoretical molecular descriptors alias topological indices are a convenient means for expressing in numerical form the chemical structure encoded in a molecular graph. The structure descriptors derived from molecular graphs are widely used in quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) and quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) studies. The reason for introducing new indices is to obtain predictions of target properties of considered molecules that are better than the predictions obtained using already known indices. In this paper, we apply the reduced reverse degree based indices introduced in 2021 by Vignesh et al. In the QSPR analysis, we first compute the reduced reverse degree based indices for a family of benzenoid hydrocarbon molecules and then we obtain the correlation with the Physico-chemical properties of the considered molecules. We show that all the properties taken into consideration for the benzenoid hydrocarbons can be very effectively predicted by the reduced reverse degree based indices. Also, we have compared the predictive capability of reduced reverse degree based topological descriptors against 16 existing degree based indices. Further, we compute the defined reduced reverse degree based topological indices for Hyaluronic Acid-Paclitaxel Conjugates $$(HAP)_{n}$$ ( H A P ) n , $$n \ge 1$$ n ≥ 1 .

Background: Anemia is one of the contributing factors for morbidity and mortality during pregnancy in developing country including India, which eventually leads to fetal and maternal consequences. Growing fetus depends completely on mothers for all its growth and maturity. Anemia is one of the nutritional deficiency disorders and around 56% of women are suffering from anemia in India. It is one of the reasons for maternal deaths and fetal complication during pregnancy. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of anemia and to determine the risk factors of anemia among pregnant women in PBMH hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of 1 month from October 11, 2022, to November 11, 2022, from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Pradyumna Bal Memorial Hospital KIMS, Bhubaneswar. A total sample comprised of 52 pregnant women who were interviewed by using self-structured questionnaire for data collection and classification of anemia was performed according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) criteria. Results: A total of 52 antenatal mothers were admitted during this study period (October 11, 2022, to November 11, 2022), and all were selected as study sample. The incidence of anemia among antenatal mother in PBM hospital was found as follows: 17 (33%) mild, 04 (07%) moderate, and 02 (04%) were severe in this present study. The most common indication of anemia among antenatal mother as per the present study was found to be H/O infection (21%), chronic malaria (15%), hook worm (27%), and birth interval (42%). Conclusion: The study implies that the prevalence rate of Anemia is high, that is, 44.2%. Spacing between pregnancy and H/O infection plays a significant role in considering anemia in pregnant women, which eventually affects both maternal and fetal condition.

We report a case of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma (ATC) mimicking acute thyroiditis in a 78 years old female who came with complaints of swelling in front of neck with hoarseness of voice. Patients with ATC typically present with a rapidly enlarging neck mass with compressive symptoms. ATC has got poor prognosis. Ultrasound neck and fine needle aspiration cytology are the first diagnostic methods in assessment of thyroid lesions.

Background: It is clinically difficult to assess the intravascular volume status of children with edema in nephrotic syndrome. This makes decision-making challenging, regarding the use of diuretics or albumin infusion in the management of edema. Ideally, hormonal assay and central venous pressure monitoring are accurate but difficult to do as these methods are invasive and expensive to be applied to every child presenting with edema of nephrotic syndrome. Hence, the need for reliable non-invasive investigations to assess the volume status of children with edema. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the volume status of children with edema due to steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome using noninvasive methods such as urinary indices (Fractional excretion of sodium (FeNa) and urine Potasium index (K index)) and inferior venacava diameter (IVCD) by ultrasonography and to determine the association between them. Materials and Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, 82 subjects fitting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. FeNa, K index and IVCD were determined. The volume status was assessed and association between the three calculated (Fischer exact test). Results: Out of 82 children, 56.1%, 68.3%, and 63.5% based on FeNa, K index, and IVCD respectively were having hypervolemic volume status. There is a statistically significant association between FeNa and K index and between urinary indices and IVCD. Conclusion: The present study supports the overfill hypothesis of edema formation. IVCD like urinary indices is a non-invasive and reliable investigation to determine volume status in nephrotic child with edema.

Abstract Single-cell assays have enriched our understanding of hematopoiesis and, more generally, stem and progenitor cell biology. However, these single-end-point approaches provide only a static snapshot of the state of a cell. To observe and measure dynamic changes that may instruct cell fate, we developed an approach for examining hematopoietic progenitor fate specification using long-term (> 7-day) single-cell time-lapse imaging for up to 13 generations with in situ fluorescence staining of primary human hematopoietic progenitors followed by algorithm-assisted lineage tracing. We analyzed progenitor cell dynamics, including the division rate, velocity, viability, and probability of lineage commitment at the single-cell level over time. We applied a Markov probabilistic model to predict progenitor division outcome over each generation in culture. We demonstrated the utility of this methodological pipeline by evaluating the effects of the cytokines thrombopoietin and erythropoietin on the dynamics of self-renewal and lineage specification in primary human bipotent megakaryocytic-erythroid progenitors (MEPs). Our data support the hypothesis that thrombopoietin and erythropoietin support the viability and self-renewal of MEPs, but do not affect fate specification. Thus, single-cell tracking of time-lapse imaged colony-forming unit assays provides a robust method for assessing the dynamics of progenitor self-renewal and lineage commitment.

Introduction: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is one of the commonest and most efficient investigation done for salivary gland swellings, which is of much help in diagnosing inflammatory, benign and malignant lesions. The morphology of nucleus determines the behaviour of the cell/tissue as benign or malignant. Nuclear morphometry analysis is done by using various software. Aim: To determine the nuclear morphometry parameters in salivary gland neoplasm of FNAC smears by Image J software and to determine its association with the cytological diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective laboratory observational cross-sectional study done for four years (2018-2021) at a tertiary healthcare centre, attached to Sri DevarajUrs Medical College, Kolar, Karnataka, India. All the FNAC smears of salivary gland neoplasms were considered and classified by cytomorphology as benign and malignant tumours. All smears were analysed using Image J software for nuclear morphometric parameters such as area of the nucleus, perimeter of the nucleus, feret diameter, minimum ferret and skewness. The nuclear morphometric findings of benign and malignant tumours were compared and statistical analysis was doneby using Student’s t-test, p-value of

Abstract In the few-cycle pulse regime of laser-cluster interaction (intensity $$>10^{16}\,\text{ W/cm}^{2}$$ > 10 16 W/cm 2 , wavelength $$> 780$$ > 780 nm), laser absorption is mostly collisionless and may happen via anharmonic resonance (AHR) process in the overdense (cluster) plasma potential. Many experiments, theory and simulation show average absorbed energy per cluster-electron ( $${\mathcal {E}_A}$$ E A ) close to the electron’s ponderomotive energy ( $$U_\mathrm {p}$$ U p ) in the collisionless regime. In this work, by simple rigid sphere model (RSM) and detailed particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation, we show enhanced $${\mathcal {E}_A}\approx$$ E A ≈ 30–70 $$U_\mathrm {p}$$ U p —a 15–30 fold increase—with an external (crossed) magnetic field near the electron-cyclotron resonance (ECR). Due to relativistic mass increase, electrons quickly deviate from the standard (non-relativistic) ECR, but time-dependent relativistic-ECR (RECR) happens which also contributes to enhanced $${\mathcal {E}_A}$$ E A . Here laser is coupled to electrons in two stages, i.e, AHR and ECR/RECR. To probe further we retrieve the phase-difference $$\Delta \psi$$ Δ ψ between the driving electric field and corresponding velocity component for each electron (in PIC and RSM). We find absorption by electron via AHR happens in a very short interval $$\Delta \tau$$ Δ τ for less than half a laser period where $$\Delta \psi$$ Δ ψ remains close to $$\pi$$ π (necessary condition for maximum laser absorption) and then $$\Delta \psi$$ Δ ψ drops to its initial $$\pi /2$$ π / 2 (meaning no absorption) after such short-lived AHR. On the contrary, auxiliary magnetic field near the ECR modifies AHR scenario inside the cluster and also helps maintaining the required phase $$\Delta \psi \approx \pi$$ Δ ψ ≈ π for the liberated cluster-electron accompanied by frequency matching for ECR/RECR for a prolonged $$\Delta \tau$$ Δ τ (which covers 50–60% of the laser pulse through pulse maxima) even after AHR—leading to jump in $${\mathcal {E}_A}\approx$$ E A ≈ 30–70 $$U_\mathrm {p}$$ U p . We note that to realize the second stage of enhanced energy coupling via ECR/RECR, the first stage via AHR is necessary.

Abstract Increasing interest in the fields of high-harmonics generation, laser-induced chemical reactions, and molecular imaging of gaseous targets demands high molecular “alignment” and “orientation” (A&O). In this work, we examine the critical role of different pulse parameters on the field-free A&O dynamics of the CH $$_3$$ 3 F molecule, and identify experimentally feasible optical and THz range laser parameters that ensure maximal A&O for such molecules. Herein, apart from rotational temperature, we investigate effects of varying pulse parameters such as, pulse duration, intensity, frequency, and carrier envelop phase (CEP). By analyzing the interplay between laser pulse parameters and the resulting rotational population distribution, the origin of specific A&O dynamics was addressed. We could identify two qualitatively different A&O behaviors and revealed their connection with the pulse parameters and the population of excited rotational states. We report here the highest alignment of $$\langle {\mathrm{cos}^2\theta }\rangle = 0.843$$ ⟨ cos 2 θ ⟩ = 0.843 and orientation of $$\langle {\mathrm{cos}(\theta )}\rangle = 0.886$$ ⟨ cos ( θ ) ⟩ = 0.886 for CH $$_3$$ 3 F molecule at 2 K using a single pulse. Our study should be useful to understand different aspects of laser-induced unidirectional rotation in heteronuclear molecules, and in understanding routes to tune/enhance A&O in laboratory conditions for advanced applications.

Introduction: Breast carcinoma is the second most common cancer and cause of death worldwide, with a mortality rate of 15%. Among various theories regarding the pathogenesis of cancer, the tumour microenvironment is known to play an essential role in cancer development and progression. Aim: To determine the expression of alpha Smooth Muscle Actin (α-SMA) in infiltrating ductal carcinoma of breast carcinoma and its association with histopathological parameters and hormonal receptors status. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study done in Department of Pathology, RL Jalappa Hospital, a tertiary care centre, Karnataka, India from January 2018 to December 2022. A total of 100 cases of Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma confirmed by histopathological examination were included in the study. All the Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E)-stained slides were screened for histological type, tumour grade, and nodal metastasis and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers like Oestrogen Receptor (ER), Progestrone Receptor (PR), Ki67, Human Epidermal growth factor 2 neu (HER2/neu) and α-SMA were performed. Results: 54% of the subjects were positive for ER, 52% of the subject was positive for PR, and 30% of the subjects were HER2/neu. 53% of the subjects had >14% Ki67 and 47% of the subjects had

Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) are associated with a significant morbidity and mortality; prevention and management strategies depend greatly on the patients’ comorbid conditions. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a well-known risk factor for PPCs, but controlled Asthma does not appear to be so. On the other hand, the role of Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS) as a risk for PPCs is yet to be studied. While there is a guidance for the perioperative risk reduction and management of COPD and Asthma, specific guidance for ACOS is also lacking. As a consequence, physicians tailor their management by considering both the components. We present a case of a 74-year-old man with ACOS, diagnosed with invasive bladder carcinoma. He was taken for laparoscopic radical cystectomy and ileal conduit. Although he had an uneventful surgery, we lost him on the seventh postoperative day due to multiple complications, including PPCs. The case highlights the need for considering the ACOS separately as a risk and calls for a specific roadmap for perioperative management. 1. Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome patients appear to be at high risk of PPCs2. There is a lack of evidence-based guidance and literature to tailor the management of such patients to reduce the perioperative risks for PPCs3. It is high time to delineate the ACOS patients from Asthma and COPD, study them in context to PPCs and perioperative outcome so that specific guidance can be developed. Case presentation: We present a case of a 74-years-old man with ACOS, diagnosed with invasive bladder carcinoma. He was taken for laparoscopic radical cystectomy and ileal conduit. Although he had an uneventful surgery, we lost him on the seventh postoperative day due to multiple complications, including PPCs. Conclusion: The case highlights the need for considering the ACOS separately as a risk and calls for a specific roadmap for perioperative management.

Introduction: Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) is a serious health concern, and the incidence of SCD is rising globally. A number of causes can result in SCD in apparently healthy individuals and in people with undiagnosed cardiac disease. The study was done to evaluate the probable cause of death by observing various histomorphological changes in cardiac autopsies. Aim: To establish the cause of SCD and study the histopathology, age and sex distribution, frequency, and location of different types of cardiac lesions. Materials and Methods: The study was a descriptive, cross-sectional, observational study carried out in the Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (FMT) at PRM Medical College and Hospital, Baripada, Odisha, over a period of three years. Gross and microscopic findings on Haematoxylin & Eosin (H&E)-stained cardiac sections were studied. The final diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical, autopsy, and histopathological findings. The study was compared with other relevant studies. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel 2019 software. Results: A total of 164 cases of SCD were included in this study. The maximum number of deaths occurred in the age group of 51-60 years (42 cases). The male to female ratio was 2.6:1, indicating an overall male preponderance. Out of 164 autopsied hearts, 85 cases of Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD), including new, old, and mixed lesions were found, followed by Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in 25 cases, multiple lesions in 12 cases, dilated cardiomyopathy in four cases, tubercular pericarditis with myocarditis in one case, infective endocarditis in three cases, atherosclerosis in one case, coronary insufficiency in one case, cardiac myxoma in one case. Conclusion: Many factors can lead to SCD in apparently healthy individuals or in people with cardiac disease. In the present study, the most common cause contributing to SCD was IHD. The cause of SCD can be identified by a thorough post-mortem examination and histological analysis.

Abstract Pathologists use visual classification to assess patient kidney biopsy samples when diagnosing the underlying cause of kidney disease. However, the assessment is qualitative, or semi-quantitative at best, and reproducibility is challenging. To discover previously unknown features which predict patient outcomes and overcome substantial interobserver variability, we developed an unsupervised bag-of-words model. Our study applied to the C-PROBE cohort of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). 107,471 histopathology images were obtained from 161 biopsy cores and identified important morphological features in biopsy tissue that are highly predictive of the presence of CKD both at the time of biopsy and in one year. To evaluate the performance of our model, we estimated the AUC and its 95% confidence interval. We show that this method is reliable and reproducible and can achieve 0.93 AUC at predicting glomerular filtration rate at the time of biopsy as well as predicting a loss of function at one year. Additionally, with this method, we ranked the identified morphological features according to their importance as diagnostic markers for chronic kidney disease. In this study, we have demonstrated the feasibility of using an unsupervised machine learning method without human input in order to predict the level of kidney function in CKD. The results from our study indicate that the visual dictionary, or visual image pattern, obtained from unsupervised machine learning can predict outcomes using machine-derived values that correspond to both known and unknown clinically relevant features.

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a frequent incidental finding during echocardiography in otherwise healthy children. In most healthy children with a diagnosis of isolated incidental PFO, no further follow-up or intervention is necessary. In some children, PFO is associated with certain clinical syndromes such as cryptogenic stroke, decompression sickness, migraine, and platypnea–orthodeoxia syndrome. This review discusses PFO anatomy, diagnostic imaging, PFO-associated clinical situations, management options, and the role of PFO in certain congenital heart disease. This review also highlights the current deficiency of pediatric data guiding management of these uncommon but important PFO-associated conditions. Future multicenter randomized controlled studies are necessary to guide the management of these unique and challenging PFO-associated conditions.

Background Global evidence suggests that Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) plays a pivotal role in reducing new HIV-infections among key populations (KP). However, the acceptability of PrEP differs across different geographical and cultural settings and among different KP typologies. Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender (TG) communities in India have around 15–17 times higher prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) than the general population. The low rates of consistent condom use and poor coverage of HIV testing and treatment among the MSM and transgender communities highlight the need for alternative HIV prevention options. Methods We used data from 20 in-depth interviews and 24 focused group discussions involving 143 MSM and 97 transgender individuals from the two metropolitan cities (Bengaluru and Delhi) in India to qualitatively explore their acceptability of PrEP as a HIV prevention tool. We coded data in NVivo and conducted extensive thematic content analysis. Results Awareness and use of PrEP were minimal among the MSM and transgender communities in both cities. However, on being provided with information on PrEP, both MSM and transgender communities expressed willingness to use PrEP as an additional HIV-prevention tool, to complement inability to consistently use condoms. PrEP was also perceived as a tool that could enhance the uptake of HIV-testing and counseling services. PrEP awareness, availability, accessibility and affordability were identified as determining factors that could influence its acceptability. Challenges such as stigma and discrimination, interrupted supply of drugs and non-community-friendly drug dispensing sites were identified barriers to continuing PrEP. Conclusions Using qualitative data from two Indian settings, this study provides community perspectives and recommendations to stakeholders and policymakers for introduction of PrEP into programs as a prevention tool among MSM and transgender communities in India.

Background: Tonsillectomies are common surgeries in day-to-day surgery practice particularly in pediatric age group. Recent trend is to conduct tonsillectomy surgery on a day care basis. It is important to use the best anesthetic option with the least recovery time to reduce the hospital stay of patient. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare recovery profile and side effects of Sevoflurane and Propofol as an anesthetic agent for tonsillectomy. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 patients undergoing elective tonsillectomy were selected for the study. Each patient was randomly allocated to either the propofol (Group P) or the sevoflurane group (Group S). Time of surgery (From start to end of surgery), time of anesthesia (From the start of induction to end of surgery), time between the end of anesthesia and the spontaneous eye opening, and time between the end of anesthesia and the following of verbal commands. Time to extubation, time between the end of anesthesia, and the orientation to his or her name and the incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting were compared in both the groups. Results: The eye opening in Group P patients was found to be 8.9+1.21 min and that in Group S was 6.6+1.25 which was found to be statistically significant. The following of verbal commands in Group P was found to occur at 10.13+1.28 min, while that in Group S was found to be at 7.63+1.25 min, which was statistically significant. The time for extubation in Group P was found to be 11.17+1.29 min, while that in Group S was found to be 8.67+1.24 min, which was statistically significant. The duration for complete orientation in Group P was found to be 12.2+1.27 min, while that in Group S was found to be 9.43+1.04 min, which came out to be statistically significant. Hemodynamic parameters were found to be comparable in both the groups with no statistically significant difference in between then at any point of time (P>0.05). Conclusion: Sevoflurane is a useful alternative to propofol in providing anesthesia where rapid emergence and recovery of cognitive functions are desired.

Abstract Mechanisms underlying anxiety disorders remain elusive despite the discovery of several associated genes. We constructed the protein–protein interaction networks (interactomes) of six anxiety disorders and noted enrichment for striatal expression among common genes in the interactomes. Five of these interactomes shared distinctive overlaps with the interactomes of genes that were differentially expressed in two striatal compartments (striosomes and matrix). Generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder interactomes showed exclusive and statistically significant overlaps with the striosome and matrix interactomes, respectively. Systematic gene expression analysis with the anxiety disorder interactomes constrained to contain only those genes that were shared with striatal compartment interactomes revealed a bifurcation among the disorders, which was influenced by the anterior cingulate cortex, nucleus accumbens, amygdala and hippocampus, and the dopaminergic signaling pathway. Our results indicate that the functionally distinct striatal pathways constituted by the striosome and the matrix may influence the etiological differentiation of various anxiety disorders.

Introduction: Oral hygiene can be maintained by mechanical and chemical methods. Maintenance of oral hygiene is challenging in visually impaired children due to physical limitations. Aim: To compare plaque removal efficacy using different toothbrushes among visually impaired children. Materials and Methods: This randomised clinical trial conducted on 45 visually impaired children aged between 7-12 years from a blind school in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, after obtaining informed consent. Study was conducted in the month of September 2020 and October 2020 for a period of two months. All potential participants were randomly divided into three groups depending on the type of toothbrush used. A plaque disclosing agent (Alpha Plac) was applied and Turesky Modified Quigley Hein Plaque Index (TQHPI) was recorded for all subjects on 15th, 30th, 45th and 60th day from the baseline. Plaque samples were collected from all the subjects and microbial assessment was done for detection of Colony Forming Units (CFUs), on 30th and 60th day from the baseline. Data was analysed using One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test followed by Tukey’s posthoc analysis at baseline and post interventional time periods. Friedman’s test followed by Wilcoxon’s Signed Rank post-hoc analysis was used to compare mean CFUs between different time intervals, in each study group. Results: At baseline, no statistically significant difference was noted between the three groups with respect to TQHPI and CFUs. At two months follow-up, nano-b toothbrush group showed significant decrease in mean Plaque Index (PI) score compared to electric toothbrush group (p-value=0.01) and manual toothbrush group (p-value

Natural polysaccharides have been widely exploited in drug delivery and tissue engineering research. They exhibit excellent biocompatibility and fewer adverse effects; however, it is challenging to assess their bioactivities to that of manufactured synthetics because of their intrinsic physicochemical characteristics. Studies showed that the carboxymethylation of polysaccharides considerably increases the aqueous solubility and bioactivities of inherent polysaccharides and offers structural diversity, but it also has some limitations that can be resolved by derivatization or the grafting of carboxymethylated gums. The swelling ratio, flocculation capacity, viscosity, partition coefficient, metal absorption properties, and thermosensitivity of natural polysaccharides have been improved as a result of these changes. In order to create better and functionally enhanced polysaccharides, researchers have modified the structures and properties of carboxymethylated gums. This review summarizes the various ways of modifying carboxymethylated gums, explores the impact that molecular modifications have on their physicochemical characteristics and bioactivities, and sheds light on various applications for the derivatives of carboxymethylated polysaccharides.

Aflatoxins are immunosuppressive and carcinogenic secondary metabolites, produced by the filamentous ascomycete Aspergillus flavus, that are hazardous to animal and human health. In this study, we show that multiplexed host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) of Aspergillus flavus genes essential for fungal sporulation and aflatoxin production (nsdC, veA, aflR, and aflM) confers enhanced resistance to Aspergillus infection and aflatoxin contamination in groundnut (Aspergillus infection and aflatoxin contamination. Fungal differentiation and pathogenicity proteins, including calmodulin, transcriptional activator-HacA, kynurenine 3-monooxygenase 2, VeA, VelC, and several aflatoxin pathway biosynthetic enzymes, were downregulated in Aspergillus infecting the HIGS lines. Additionally, in the resistant HIGS lines, a number of host resistance proteins associated with fatty acid metabolism were strongly induced, including phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinase, lysophosphatidic acyltransferase-5, palmitoyl-monogalactosyldiacylglycerol Δ-7 desaturase, ceramide kinase-related protein, sphingolipid Δ-8 desaturase, and phospholipase-D. Combined, this knowledge can be used for groundnut pre-breeding and breeding programs to provide a safe and secure food supply.

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare neutrophilic inflammatory skin condition which affects up to ten cases per million people per year. It mostly presents in the second to sixth decades of life with female preponderance. There are only a few reports of this condition following obstetric and gynecological procedures. The current article aims to highlight that PG should be kept as a differential in case of a nonhealing surgical site wound, misdiagnosis of which results in physical and psychological morbidity.

Abstract To improve grain yield under direct seeded and aerobic conditions, weed competitive ability of a rice genotype is a key desirable trait. Hence, understanding and dissecting weed competitive associated traits at both morphological and molecular level is important in developing weed competitive varieties. In the present investigation, the QTLs associated with weed competitive traits were identified in BC1F2:3 population derived from weed competitive accession of O. glaberrima (IRGC105187) and O. sativa cultivar IR64. The mapping population consisting of 144 segregating lines were phenotyped for 33 weed competitive associated traits under direct seeded condition. Genetic analysis of weed competitive traits carried out in BC1F2:3 population showed significant variation for the weed competitive traits and predominance of additive gene action. The population was genotyped with 81 genome wide SSR markers and a linkage map covering 1423 cM was constructed. Composite interval mapping analysis identified 72 QTLs linked to 33 weed competitive traits which were spread on the 11 chromosomes. Among 72 QTLs, 59 were found to be major QTLs (> 10% PVE). Of the 59 major QTLs, 38 had favourable allele contributed from the O. glaberrima parent. We also observed nine QTL hotspots for weed competitive traits (qWCA2a, qWCA2b, qWCA2c, qWCA3, qWCA5, qWCA7, qWCA8, qWCA9, and qWCA10) wherein several QTLs co-localised. Our study demonstrates O. glaberrima species as potential source for improvement for weed competitive traits in rice and identified QTLs hotspots associated with weed competitive traits.

Abstract COVID-19 is a respiratory tract infection that can range from being mild to fatal. In India, the countrywide lockdown has been imposed since 24th march 2020, and has got multiple extensions with different guidelines for each phase. Among various models of epidemiology, we use the SIR(D) model to analyze the extent to which this multi-phased lockdown has been active in ‘flattening the curve’ and lower the threat. Analyzing the effect of lockdown on the infection may provide a better insight into the evolution of epidemic while implementing the quarantine procedures as well as improving the healthcare facilities. For accurate modelling, incorporating various parameters along with sophisticated computational facilities are required. Parallel to SIRD modelling, we tend to compare it with the Ising model and derive a quantum circuit that incorporates the rate of infection and rate of recovery, etc as its parameters. The probabilistic plots obtained from the circuit qualitatively resemble the shape of the curve for the spread of Coronavirus. We also demonstrate how the curve flattens when the lockdown is imposed. This kind of quantum computational approach can be useful in reducing space and time complexities of a huge amount of information related to the epidemic.

The objective of the study is to synthesis silver nanoparticles from the leaf extract of Cryptolepis buchanani, a medically important plant,by green synthesis method. The synthesized nanoparticles have an average size of 17.05±5.27 nm, crystalline in nature with face cantered cubic structure, and positive surface charge. The nanoparticles are biologically active. It killed > 90 % of HeLa cells at 25 μg mL-1 concentration in-vitro cell cytotoxicity assay, with a LD50 value of 3.98 μg mL-1. The nanoparticles are less effective on MCF-7 and HEK-293 cell line, almost 70 % of MCF-7 populations were survived at highest concentration of 25 μg mL-1. In case of HEK-293 it killed almost 78 % of cells at the same concentration with a 9.45 μg mL-1 LD50 value. The synthesized nanoparticle lysed less than 2.5 % of red blood cells at 10 μg mL-1 concentration in-vitro. The nanoparticles degraded >90 % of methylene blue dye in presence of light in 8.5 h. These properties of the synthesized nanoparticles are unique, and make it promising for its future potential applications.

Abstract Objectives The aim of this paper is to establish some fixed point, coincidence point and, coupled coincidence and coupled common fixed point results for generalized $$(\phi , \psi )$$ ( ϕ , ψ ) -contractive mappings in partially ordered b-metric spaces. Our results generalize, extend and unify most of the fundamental metrical fixed point theorems in the existing literature. Few examples are illustrated to justify our results. Result The existence and uniqueness theorems for a fixed point and coincidence point, coupled coincidence point and coupled common fixed points for two mappings satisfying generalized $$(\phi , \psi )$$ ( ϕ , ψ ) -contractive conditions in complete partially ordered b-metric spaces are proved. These results generalize several comparable results in the existing literature.

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the 3rd most common cancer among women worldwide. p16 biomarker is the surrogate marker in cervical cancer and can be detected by Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Aim: To evaluate the association of IHC p16INK4a expression in tissue sections and Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) p16INK4a protein in plasma of paired samples in Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) of uterine cervix. Materials and Methods: This laboratory-based observational, pilot study was conducted at tertiary care centre of Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College in South India from June 2020 to May 2021. Total 17 new cases of SCC of cervix diagnosed by histopathology were considered for the study. The cases were staged as per International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system and classified by histopathology as keratinising and non keratinising types. IHC p16INK4a evaluation was done on tissue sections and classified as block positivity, ambiguity and negative. ELISA p16INK4a estimation was done using plasma from Dipotassium Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (K2-EDTA) blood sample of same cases. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 software. Results: The age ranged from 30-80 years with mean of 54.3±12.0 years. Plasma ELISA p16INK4a level ranged from 3.4-19.6 ng/mL with a mean of 7.2±2.35 ng/mL in SCC of cervix. The plasma p16INK4a ELISA levels of 5.1 to 6.2 ng/mL, 6.0 to 6.6 ng/mL and 5.5 to 9.7 ng/mL predicts negative, ambiguity and block positivity of IHC p16INK4a expression respectively in corresponding tissue biopsy. Plasma ELISA p16INK4a levels were maximum in Non Keratinising Squamous Cell Carcinoma (NKSCC) followed by Well Differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (WDSCC), Moderately Differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (MDSCC) and Poorly Differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (PDSCC). Conclusion: The plasma ELISA p16INK4a levels and IHC p16INK4a expression were maximum in higher disease stage compared to lower stage. This was a pilot study to evaluate the association between tissue IHC p16 expression and plasma ELISA p16 levels. Further study has to be done on larger study population with standardised procedure to prove the hypothesis.

Silver nanoparticles were synthesized from Ehretia laevis Roxb. leaf extract by one-step green synthesis method. The nanoparticles were crystalline in nature, spherical shaped with 25 to 35 nm diameter. The aim of this study was the synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles from Ehretia laevis Roxb., and the evaluation of their antimicrobial, anticancer, larvicidal and methylene blue dye degradation efficiency. The nanoparticles showed antimicrobial, larvicidal and cytotoxic activity. At a concentration of 25 μg/mL, it killed 70 ± 10.24% of Culex quinquefasciatus larvae after 72 h treatment. The median lethal concentration of the nanoparticles against HeLa, human cervical cancer cells, and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells, were calculated to 12.7 μg/mL and 14.5 μg/mL, respectively. The synthesized nanoparticles degraded Congo red ~ 85% within 8 h at a concentration of 200 μg/mL. Possible application of the synthesized nanoparticles are water purifying agent in presence of sunlight.

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly progressed across the nation since January 2020, with the United States having the highest number of cases in the world. On the background of the corona pandemic, it is the topmost priority to prepare a tertiary care hospital for planning a diagnostic screening, triaging, and management of patients and at the same time protecting healthcare workers and the environment. This article describes the infrastructures, hospital policy, and guidelines for giving quality and proper treatments to all needy patients. Aggressive screening at the corona screening desk and implementation of infection control measures are key elements for success.

Global vaccine development efforts have been accelerated in response to the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. The study aims to determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies among vaccine-naïve healthcare workers and to describe the impact of vaccination roll-out on COVID-19 antibody prevalence among the health care centers in tertiary care centers in South India. Serum samples collected from vaccinated and unvaccinated health care workers between January 2021 and April 2021were subjected to COVID-19 IgG ELISA, and adverse effects after the first and second dose of receiving the Covishield vaccine were recorded. The vaccinated group was followed for a COVID-19 breakthrough infection for a period of 6 months. Among the recruited HCW, 156 and 157 participants were from the vaccinated and unvaccinated group, respectively. The seroprevalence (COVID-19 IgG ELISA) among the vaccinated and unvaccinated Health Care Workers (HCW) was 91.7% and 38.2%, respectively, which is statistically significant. Systemic and local side-effects after Covishield vaccination occur at lower frequencies than reported in phase 3 trials. Since the COVID-19 vaccine rollout has commenced in our tertiary care hospital, seropositivity for COVID-19 IgG has risen dramatically and clearly shows trends in vaccine-induced antibodies among the health care workers.

Tumours of the colon and rectum are one of the most common malignancies worldwide. In India, its incidence is less compared to the developed countries however,recently it has increased from past few decades due to sedentary lifestyle and more consumption of animal fats with less dietary fibre intake. The liver and lungs are most common sites of metastasis from colorectal carcinoma; however, it occasionally metastasised to atypical sites by making diagnosis difficult. Due to the high frequency of colorectal carcinoma, even infrequent metastatic sites are important to diagnose as early as possible. Hereby, authors present a case of 53-year-old male, with history of carcinoma rectum and treated with Abdominoperineal Resection (APR) with permanent colostomy three years back. Three years after the diagnosis of carcinoma rectum, the patient was diagnosed with metastasis of colorectal adenocarcinoma to prostate and urinary bladder which was proven histopathologically. Despite the fact that this condition is uncommon in clinical practice, the possibility of metastatic involvement of prostate and urinary bladder should always be considered when the diagnosis of other primary carcinoma is made.

The biophysical properties of sensory neurons are influenced by their morphometric and morphological features, whose precise measurements require high-quality volume electron microscopy (EM). However, systematic surveys of nanoscale characteristics for identified neurons are scarce. Here, we characterize the morphology of Drosophila olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) across the majority of genetically identified sensory hairs. By analyzing serial block-face electron microscopy images of cryofixed antennal tissues, we compile an extensive morphometric data set based on 122 reconstructed 3D models for 33 of the 40 identified antennal ORN types. Additionally, we observe multiple novel features—including extracellular vacuoles within sensillum lumen, intricate dendritic branching, mitochondria enrichment in select ORNs, novel sensillum types, and empty sensilla containing no neurons—which raise new questions pertinent to cell biology and sensory neurobiology. Our systematic survey is critical for future investigations into how the size and shape of sensory neurons influence their responses, sensitivity, and circuit function.

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV vaccine knowledge and awareness are known to be lower among Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic whites. However, Hispanics in the US are a non-homogenous population, with significant differences by nativity, particularly between the US-and foreign-born individuals. We examined HPV and HPV vaccine awareness among foreign-born Hispanics, US-born Hispanics, and US-born non-Hispanic whites. Methods: We analyzed data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5, cycles 1 (2017) and 2 (2018), the most recent HINTS datasets including nativity information. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable regression to compare awareness of HPV and the HPV vaccine among ethnicity/nativity subgroups. Results: Over 50% of foreign-born Hispanics had not heard of HPV, compared to 32% of US-born Hispanics (P

Abstract Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for the majority of heart failure (HF) hospitalization. To identify the most complementary predictors of mortality among clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic data, we used cluster based hierarchical modeling. Using Stanford Translational Research Database, we identified patients hospitalized with HFpEF between 2005 and 2016 in whom echocardiogram and NT-proBNP were both available at the time of admission. Comprehensive echocardiographic assessment including left ventricular longitudinal strain (LVLS), right ventricular function and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) was performed. The outcome was defined as all-cause mortality. Among patients identified, 186 patients with complete echocardiographic assessment were included in the analysis. The cohort included 58% female, with a mean age of 78.7 ± 13.5 years, LVLS of −13.3 ± 2.5%, an estimated RVSP of 38 ± 13 mmHg. Unsupervised cluster analyses identified six clusters including ventricular systolic-function cluster, diastolic-hemodynamic cluster, end-organ function cluster, vital-sign cluster, complete blood count and sodium clusters. Using a stepwise hierarchical selection from each cluster, we identified NT-proBNP (standard hazard ratio [95%CI] = 1.56 [1.17–2.08]) and RVSP (1.37 [1.09–1.78]) as independent correlates of outcome. When adding these parameters to the well validated Get with the Guideline Heart Failure risk score, the Chi-square was significantly improved (p = 0.01). In conclusion, NT-proBNP and RVSP were independently predictive in HFpEF among clinical, imaging, and biomarker parameters. Cluster-based hierarchical modeling may help identify the complementally predictive parameters in small cohorts with higher dimensional clinical data.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is considered as one of the strongest risk factors for gastric disorders. Infection triggers several host pathways to elicit inflammation, which further proceeds towards gastric complications. The NF-kB pathway plays a central role in the upregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines during infection. It also regulates the transcriptional network of several inflammatory cytokine genes. Hence, targeting NF-kB could be an important strategy to reduce pathogenesis. Moreover, treatment of H. pylori needs attention as current therapeutics lack efficacy due to antibiotic resistance, highlighting the need for alternative therapeutic approaches. In this study, we investigated the effects of capsaicin, a known NF-kB inhibitor in reducing inflammation and gastric complications during H. pylori infection. We observed that capsaicin reduced NF-kB activation and upregulation of cytokine genes in an in vivo mice model. Moreover, it affected NF-kB–miRNA interplay to repress inflammation and gastric damages. Capsaicin reduced the expression level of mir21 and mir223 along with the pro-inflammatory cytokines. The repression of miRNA further affected downstream targets such as e-cadherin and Akt. Our data represent the first evidence that treatment with capsaicin inhibits inflammation and induces antimicrobial activity during H. pylori infection. This alternative approach might open a new avenue in treating H. pylori infection, thus reducing gastric problems.