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Amidst the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of education in India has undergone a profound transformation. Traditional methods of teaching and learning, once the bedrock of our educational system, now find themselves met with skepticism from both students and educational institutions. In response to this paradigm shift, this paper delves into the pressing need for a comprehensive overhaul of pedagogical methodologies within the context of engineering education in India. It emphasizes the pivotal role of education and pedagogy, advocating for a departure from conventional models towards a more learner-centric and adaptable framework, tailored to the nuances of the Indian education landscape. In this context, the paper sheds light on the intrinsic value of understanding diverse learning styles, particularly within the backdrop of a digitally driven era. The profound impact of digital platforms on modern education in India is explored, underscoring their potential to revolutionize and enhance the learning experience for Indian students. The paper further examines unconventional techniques that challenge the norms of education as conventionally understood, recognizing their potential to bridge the gap between students' expectations and institutional methodologies. Within the discourse of this paper, special attention is accorded to three distinctive non-conventional pedagogical approaches: 'Cyberhunt', 'Keyword Concept' and 'Role Switch Teaching'. These methodologies are scrutinized as quintessential examples of innovative strategies that can foster an intuitive and engaging learning environment within Indian classrooms. 'Cyberhunt' immerses students in experiential learning by assigning them virtual quests that mirror real-world challenges, thereby nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving skills tailored to the Indian context. Similarly, the 'Keyword Concept' approach capitalizes on cognitive associations to enhance memory retention and conceptual understanding, catering to the unique learning styles often found in India. Further, the innovative 'Role Switch' teaching methodology, which involves assigning students diverse roles in course delivery, was successfully implemented to further enrich the learning experience in the context of control engineering course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This non-randomised, cohort analysis was conducted to analyse the ipsilateral breast tumour recurrence after breast conservation surgery and the factors affecting the recurrences. The study reflects a recurrence rate of 3.2% at 5 years. A non-randomised, cohort analysis of 248 patients was conducted to analyse the ipsilateral breast tumour recurrence after breast conservation surgery and the factors affecting the recurrences. Patients with T1-T3 lesion who underwent breast conservation surgery with SLNB/axillary clearance between January 2014 and May 2018 in Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre were enrolled in the study. All of them received adjuvant radiotherapy. The median follow up was 43 months. In our study 8 patients developed recurrence (3.22%) The highest rate of recurrence was noted in triple negative breast cancer (75%) followed by Luminal B (25%). Her2neu rich and Luminal A groups had no local recurrence. Higher recurrence was noted in node-positive patients and post neo-adjuvant group (62.5%).Two patients had systemic recurrence along with local recurrence and one succumbed to the disease. The 5-year disease-free survival was 97% with a median follow-up of 43 months, 95% CI (41.339–44.661). Our studies demonstrated a recurrence rate of 3.22% with the highest recurrence in the triple negative group (75%). The other factors affecting recurrence were nodal disease, bulky tumours downsized after neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and quadrant of the breast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is the standard of care for axillary staging in clinically node-negative breast cancer. SLNB is predictive of axillary node status. Major concern is the occurrence of a false negative SLN. The objective of this study is to determine the rate of axillary recurrence in our series of patients in Indian cohort. The present study was conducted at Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, a tertiary referral cancer centre in India, from Jan 2008 through December 2018. A total of 496 patients diagnosed with early breast cancer with clinically negative axilla underwent the SLNB procedure using both ICG and dual dye. Four hundred ninety-six patients with negative SLNB did not receive ALND. After a median follow-up of 48.8 months, 18 patients had distant metastases, one had axillary relapse, and 13 had an in-breast recurrence. The patients with axillary recurrence received axillary dissection and systemic adjuvant therapy. Data from this series, thus, showed that isolated axillary node recurrence after negative SLNB is rare (< 1%) and comparable with referral cancer institutions. We confirm that SLNB for the treatment of early breast cancer patients of a tertiary referral hospital is safe and reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various endosymbiotic bacteria, including Wolbachia of the Alphaproteobacteria, infect a wide range of insects and are capable of inducing reproductive abnormalities to their hosts such as cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI), parthenogenesis, feminization and male-killing. These extended phenotypes can be potentially exploited in enhancing environmentally friendly methods, such as the sterile insect technique (SIT), for controlling natural populations of agricultural pests. The goal of the present study is to investigate the presence of Wolbachia, Spiroplasma, Arsenophonus and Cardinium among Bactrocera, Dacus and Zeugodacus flies of Southeast Asian populations, and to genotype any detected Wolbachia strains. Results: A specific 16S rRNA PCR assay was used to investigate the presence of reproductive parasites in natural populations of nine different tephritid species originating from three Asian countries, Bangladesh, China and India. Wolbachia infections were identified in Bactrocera dorsalis, B. correcta, B. scutellaris and B. zonata, with 12.2–42.9% occurrence, Entomoplasmatales in B. dorsalis, B. correcta, B. scutellaris, B. zonata, Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Z. tau (0.8–14.3%) and Cardinium in B. dorsalis and Z. tau (0.9–5.8%), while none of the species tested, harbored infections with Arsenophonus. Infected populations showed a medium (between 10 and 90%) or low (< 10%) prevalence, ranging from 3 to 80% for Wolbachia, 2 to 33% for Entomoplasmatales and 5 to 45% for Cardinium. Wolbachia and Entomoplasmatales infections were found both in tropical and subtropical populations, the former mostly in India and the latter in various regions of India and Bangladesh. Cardinium infections were identified in both countries but only in subtropical populations. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of Wolbachia with some strains belonging either to supergroup B or supergroup A. Sequence analysis revealed deletions of variable length and nucleotide variation in three Wolbachia genes. Spiroplasma strains were characterized as citri–chrysopicola–mirum and ixodetis strains while the remaining Entomoplasmatales to the Mycoides–Entomoplasmataceae clade. Cardinium strains were characterized as group A, similar to strains infecting Encarsia pergandiella. Conclusions: Our results indicated that in the Southeast natural populations examined, supergroup A Wolbachia strain infections were the most common, followed by Entomoplasmatales and Cardinium. In terms of diversity, most strains of each bacterial genus detected clustered in a common group. Interestingly, the deletions detected in three Wolbachia genes were either new or similar to those of previously identified pseudogenes that were integrated in the host genome indicating putative horizontal gene transfer events in B. dorsalis, B. correcta and B. zonata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the year of 2012 Jabalpur has reported highest rate suicides of 45.1 among 53 mega cities across India. This study focuses on external findings in cases of deaths due to hanging so as to get a comprehensive profile of findings. Material and Methods: The details about the victims with regard to the age, sex, and type of ligature material, details of ligature mark were obtained prospectively during postmortem examination. Results: single turn was observed in 94 (83.92%) cases. Out of 112 cases of hanging the mark was incompletely encircling the neck in 102 (91.07%), was obliquely placed in 104 (92.85%) cases, and placed above thyroid cartilage in 106 (94.64%) cases. Breadth of the ligature mark in maximum number of cases i.e. 56 (50%) cases, was between 1.1 to 2 cm. commonly, the soft ligature materials were used by the victims. Discussion: In this study, in most of the cases, the mark was incompletely encircling the neck (91.07%). similar finding was observed in the study done by sarangi6 (97.87%). collectively, soft ligature material was used most commonly [46 (41.07%) cases]. similar findings were observed in study done by Naik and Patil8 (soft material, 53.97%). salivary stains over angle of mouth and anterior aspect of chest over cloths were observed in 33.92% cases. Our findings similar to those of study done by shaikh et al11 (38.37%). Conclusion: Mostly the mark of hanging is oblique, incomplete and above thyroid cartilage. soft cloth is more commonly used as ligature material by the victims of suicide. External injuries other than ligature mark are found in some cases and are not common. Salivary stains over angle of mouth and anterior part of chest petechial hemorrhages and cyanosis are not present in all cases, so these are not universal findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of root and stem of Cissus rependa Vahl.(Vitaceae), a folklore medicinal plant of Gandhamardana hill ranges of Orissa, was carried out on albino rats and mice at the dose of 180 mg/kg and 260 mg/ kg respectively. The effect on inflammation was studied on carrageenan and formalin induced paw oedema models and compared with phenylbutazone and diclofenac sodium standards respectively. Analgesic activity was evaluated in formalin induced paw licking and tail flick method where indomethacin and pentazocine were used as standard drugs respectively. The C. rependa root (CRR) significantly inhibited carrageenan induced paw oedema, formalin induced paw licking and prolonged tail flick response, however it was failed to suppress the formalin induced paw oedema, whereas C. rependa stem (CRS) significantly inhibited carrageenan induced paw oedema and formalin induced paw oedema at 24h, however it failed to inhibit formalin induced pain response. Further, CRS prolonged tail flick response significantly only at 180minutes. The results suggest that the root of C rependa has significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential as reflected by the parameters investigated, while stem has weak anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. Thus it can be concluded that roots of C rependa have significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity and can be preferred in the treatment of pain and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linaria ramosissima (Wall.) Janch., Scrophulariaceae, a folklore plant, has been claimed for its diuretic activities by traditional practitioners. The present study was undertaken to investigate the diuretic activity of L. ramosissima leaves in albino rats. Suspension of leaf powder in 2% gum acacia was administered to experimental rats orally at doses of 450 mg/kg. The diuretic effect was evaluated by measuring the urine volume, pH of urine, and urinary electrolyte excretion. Administration of the test drug increased the urine volume in a non-significant manner, while it enhanced the urinary excretion of sodium, chloride, and potassium significantly, in comparison to the control group. From the present study it can be concluded that the leaves of L. ramosissima have a significant diuretic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cotesia are larval endoparasitoids and are potential biocontrol agents for various insect pests. In the present study, we attempted to detect the allele-specific ftsZ gene of Wolbachia in Cotesia spp. obtained from different geographical locations. Samples of Cotesia plutellae originating from India (Bangalore and Ludhiana), Kenya, and South Africa and samples of C. glomerata from India (Solan) confirmed the presence of Wolbachia. However, C. plutellae samples from the Kullu region of India did not show infection with Wolbachia. ftsZ sequences showed a high degree of homology within the species (>99%). The low genetic distance in the infected Cotesia populations indicated a single ancestral type, and distance to and from the outgroup suggested that populations are from the same species. Phylogenetic grouping of Cotesia species on the basis of geographic origin showed that the Wolbachia strain is closely related to strains that infect phylogenetically distant hosts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose To discuss the entire spectrum of injuries seen in lower limb trauma and choice of reconstructive options. Methodology Retrospective review of 72 consecutive cases in one year. Data collected from individual case records and the department photo data base. Injuries were classified and analyzed based on bone and soft tissue involvement, associated vascular injuries, mechanism of injury as in crush, degloving, and combined. Bony injuries were classified according to Gustilo’s classification. Treatment options and outcome for bone and soft tissue are discussed separately. Results Total of 72 cases. 95%of cases were two wheeler traffic accidents. Distribution of cases according to site involved: Leg-39; Foot-14; Leg and foot-16; Thigh, leg, and foot-3. 8 of them were of Gustilo’s IIIB and 7 of IIIC. 42 flaps done included Gastrocnemius-4, Soleus-7, reverse sural-7, Cross leg-2, Fasciocutaneous-5 Perforator based local flaps-3Latissimus dorsi-7, Gracilis-6 Lateral thigh-1 Intervention: Immediate: 12%. Early (less than 1 week): 36, Delayed (>1 week): 52% Complications:Wound infection:Minor: 12; Major: 8 (3 Cases – Clostridia) Partial flap loss: 6; Loss of SSG over flap/donor site: 5; Acute renal failure: 1 Amputations: Above knee: 4; below knee: 2 Conclusions This series represents the spectrum of high velocity injuries in an overcrowded urban locality of developing country. Significant tissue loss is most often the rule. A judicious execution of reconstructive options can optimize results. Management protocols were adopted to avoid delayed referrals. This audit served as a benchmark to put together a dedicated trauma team in our hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zeugodacus caudatus (Fabricius) is a pest of cucurbit plants. The present study was conducted to draw the relationship among Indian Z. caudatus populations with the other defined genetic lineage of the species. A total of 18 individuals' mtCOI gene sequences from 3 populations of India were analysed along with 34 individuals' mtCOI gene sequences from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and China and generated 14 haplotypes. Phylogenetic study revealed the presence of distinct genetic lineage in Z. caudatus populations collected from India. The genetic distance between three distinct lineages of Z. caudatus was 0.057, 0.055 and 0.018 between Indonesia and Malaysia, India and Indonesia, and India and Malaysia, respectively and also evident from phylogenetic analysis. Further, the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene sequences developed in this study will help detection and geographical distribution of new haplotypes and lineages of the species in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tree seed oils seem to be a transportation fuel for compression ignition engine at the regular usage around the globe. In India, the seven out of eight customers prefer to use diesel vehicles for their regular usage which has depicted a highly crooked situation. In this present report, a comprehensive review of Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel as alternative energy source for compression ignition engine applications through various categories like properties assessment, utilization in diesel engine etc. This review report summarizes the various novel production technologies for Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel that have been used in recent times along with their production yield comparative analysis. Many optimized production methodologies of Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel have been comparatively evaluated with other feedstock based biodiesels. It has been noticed that the raw oil per Calophyllum inophyllum tree would be around 11.7 kg and Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel yield through supercritical intensification method is closed to 99% which is significantly higher than other biodiesel feedstock. Further, the impacts of Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel properties on compression ignition engine behaviours were eventually outlined. Inaddtion, the recent research outputs on the effect of various higher alcohols, antioxidants and nanoparticles with Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel fuel at various concentrations are discussed in a comprehensive manner. The overall influence of changing compression ignition engine operating parameters such as injection timing, injection pressure and compression ratio variations during Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel fuel operations are critically outlined. Inaddtion, the various properties of Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel are compared with other feedstock biodiesels and fewer experimental work outputs are highlighted. In the end, the life cycle cost analysis of Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel has also been presented. Finally, some specific conclusions about Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel are summarized and few critical problems on the commercial utilization of Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesel are also pointed out. • Critical review of various production methodologies of CIME. • Calophyllum inophyllum fuelled in Compression Ignition engine is reviewed. • Effects of additives such as alcohols, ether, nanoparticles and ethers are examined. • Effect of various engine operating parameters for CIME operation is critically analysed. • Highlighted the future scope of research for CIME as fuel alternative fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maharashtra has reported the maximum number of COVID-19 cases in India. This study was conducted to describe the predictors of death among the confirmed cases of COVID-19 by carrying out a secondary analysis of surveillance data of 11,278 lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases and admitted in dedicated COVID hospitals and dedicated COVID health-care centers between April 4, 2020, and July 17, 2020, in Pune district of Maharashtra. A total of 1270 (11.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.7-11.9) deaths out of 11,278 patients were reported. Out of the 1270 deaths, 825 (65%) were male and 788 (62%) had one or more comorbidities. Logistic regression was done for predictors of death, and males (adjusted odds ratio: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.4-1.8), those with symptoms at the time of admission (adjusted odds ratio: 2.9, 95% CI: 2.5-3.4), and those with the presence of two or more comorbidities (adjusted odds ratio: 2.7, 95% CI: 2.2-3.4) were having a higher risk of death., Competing Interests: None

Postprandial hyperglycaemia and spikes have deleterious effects on Insulin secretion and sensitivity. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of miglitol 50 mg three times daily for 12 weeks in 129 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, inadequately managed with diet and exercise therapy alone for 3 months after obtaining their written informed consent. The primary efficacy variables were per cent change from baseline at week 12 in fasting and postprandial plasma glucose concentrations and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA(1C)) levels. After treatment at the end of 12 weeks mean reduction in fasting plasma glucose levels was 35.7% and 44.33% in postprandial plasma glucose levels while the mean HbA(1C) was significantly reduced by 0.88% (p<0.05). Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and TC/HDL ratio did not showed any significant change but a non-significant reduction in triglyceride levels was observed in some patients. The mean body mass index was reduced non-significantly by 8% from baseline values. A total 19.5% patients treated with miglitol reported adverse events like flatulence, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, diarrhoea and dyspepsia. Only one patient reported hypoglycaemia. The results of the present study indicate that miglitol reduces fasting and postprandial plasma glucose levels, Improving glycaemic control, which is reflected in a reduced HbA(1C) level in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It could be a useful first-line therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled by diet alone and as adjuvant therapy in patients who are inadequately controlled with diet and sulfonylureas.