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Abstract Genetic risk modeling for dementia offers significant benefits, but studies based on real-world data, particularly for underrepresented populations, are limited. We employ an Elastic Net model for dementia risk prediction using single-nucleotide polymorphisms prioritized by functional genomic data from multiple neurodegenerative disease genome-wide association studies. We compare this model with APOE and polygenic risk score models across genetic ancestry groups (Hispanic Latino American sample: 610 patients with 126 cases; African American sample: 440 patients with 84 cases; East Asian American sample: 673 patients with 75 cases), using electronic health records from UCLA Health for discovery and the All of Us cohort for validation. Our model significantly outperforms other models across multiple ancestries, improving the area-under-precision-recall curve by 31–84% (Wilcoxon signed-rank test p-value

This study aimed to compare high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and lipid profile levels between prediabetic and normal populations and explore correlations between hs-CRP and lipid profile in prediabetic individuals. The study was conducted among Group A comprising 75 prediabetic individuals, and Group B, which included 75 non-diabetic controls from the general population. Results showed that the mean hs-CRP level in Group A (1.717) significantly exceeded that of Group B (0.917) (p = 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive linear relationships between hs-CRP and lipid profile parameters, indicating that as total cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) increased, hs-CRP also increased. A significant negative linear relationship was observed between hs-CRP and HDL. Moreover, a positive linear relationship existed between hs-CRP and glycemic parameters (fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), and Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c)). It is concluded that elevated hs-CRP, an inflammatory marker, correlated with dysregulated lipid profiles, and glycemic parameters, indicating its potential role in assessing inflammation in prediabetic individuals and its association with dyslipidemia and glucose metabolism.

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of mean platelet volume (MPV) in 50 AKI patients. Blood samples were collected according to KDIGO guidelines, and complete blood counts, including MPV, were analyzed. Significant differences in MPV were observed among patients who recovered with or without dialysis and those who expired. A statistically significant difference was present in between the mean platelet count of patients recovered without dialysis, recovered with dialysis, and the expired patients. The Area Under Curve (AUC) for MPV scores was as high as 0.842. Indicating that in up to 84% of the pairs (death-survival) the models correctly estimated that the probability of survival was higher than that of death. MPV had an optimum cutoff point of score value

The current study focussed on the growth traits pertaining to Harnali sheep maintained at Sheep Farm, LUVAS, Hisar and data were recorded from pedigree sheets of 1278 animals. Growth traits considered were birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), six-month weight (6MW), yearling weight (YW), and pre-weaning average daily gain (PRWDG) and least-squares means for corresponding traits found to be 3.28±0.02 kg, 12.89±0.07 kg, 17.06±0.06 kg, 24.36±0.06 kg, and 106.74±0.61 g, respectively. Effect of different factors like period of birth, sex of animal and dams’ weight at lambing was studied on growth traits. Except YW, significant effect of period of birth was observed on all the growth traits. Sex had significant influence on BW only however, dams’ weight at lambing affected significantly all the considered growth traits except YW. By leveraging the sire component of variance and covariance from mixed model analysis, the paternal half-sib correlation method was used to estimate genetic as well as phenotypic parameters. Estimates of heritability for BW, WW, 6MW, YW and PRWDG were 0.28±0.07, 0.33±0.07, 0.31±0.07, 0.12±0.04 and 0.27±0.06, respectively. Genetic as well as phenotypic trends for WW and PRWDG were found to be positive. Moderate range of genetic variability at weaning weight and its positive genetic and phenotypic correlations with growth traits specially six month’s weight indicated that genetic improvement could be possible through early selection at weaning weight in Harnali sheep.

Present study was carried out during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2020–2022 at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to assess the effect of foliar application of nutrients on the yield and quality aspects of rainy season guava (Psidium guajava L.). Experiment was conducted in a randomized block design (RBD) comprised of 4 different foliar applications of zinc sulphate, viz. ZnSO4 @0% (Control); ZnSO4 @0.3%; ZnSO4 @0.6%; ZnSO4 @0.9%; and 4 foliar applications of potassium sulphate, viz. K2SO4 @0% (Control); K2SO4 @1.0%; K2SO4 @1.5%; and K2SO4 @2.0, and replicated thrice. However, foliar application of ZnSO4 @0.9% was found to be the best treatment in improving the fruit yield (46.2 kg/plant), fruit weight (135.2 g), fruit length (6.10 cm) and fruit breadth (5.64 cm) of rainy season guava (cv. L-49). Similarly, ZnSO4 @0.6% was found best for increasing the TSS (total soluble solids) (10.6 B) and ascorbic acid content (187.4 mg/100 g pulp). On the other hand, K2SO4 @2.0% increased the fruit yield (45.4 kg/plant), fruit weight (135.2 g) and ascorbic acid content (190.3 mg/100 g pulp) of guava fruit. The maximum N, P, K and Zn content for nutrient analysis in leaf was noted under foliar application of ZnSO4 @0.9% and K2SO4 @2.0%. The maximum N and Zn content in fruit was observed due to application of ZnSO4 @0.9% and maximum P and K content was observed with treatment ZnSO4 @0.6%. Similarly, K2SO4 @2.0% increased the N, P, K and Zn content of guava fruit.

Abstract Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highly prevalent within the Indigenous Australian community. Novel glucose monitoring technology offers an accurate approach to glycaemic management, providing real-time information on glucose levels and trends. The acceptability and feasibilility of this technology in Indigenous Australians with T2DM has not been investigated. Objective This feasibility phenomenological study aims to understand the experiences of Indigenous Australians with T2DM using flash glucose monitoring (FGM). Methods Indigenous Australians with T2DM receiving injectable therapy (n = 8) who used FGM (Abbott Freestyle Libre) for 6-months, as part of a clinical trial, participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the interviews was performed using NVivo12 Plus qualitative data analysis software (QSR International). Results Six major themes emerged: 1) FGM was highly acceptable to the individual; 2) FGM’s convenience was its biggest benefit; 3) data from FGM was a tool to modify lifestyle choices; 4) FGM needed to be complemented with health professional support; 5) FGM can be a tool to engage communities in diabetes management; and 6) cost of the device is a barrier to future use. Conclusions Indigenous Australians with T2DM had positive experiences with FGM. This study highlights future steps to ensure likelihood of FGM is acceptable and effective within the wider Indigenous Australian community.

Introduction: Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARSCoV-2) and influenza viruses represent a significant global public health concern. The disease spectrum ranges from mild to life-threatening conditions. Surveillance of hospitalised SARI patients is an essential public health tool used to identify cause of the disease, track changes in circulating viruses and serve as an alert mechanism for potential pandemic viruses. Aim: To determine the rate of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus positivity among SARI cases and to investigate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 SARI patients admitted to Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Amritsar, Punjab, India between February 2021 and June 2022. The clinical, demographic, and epidemiological data, as well as co-morbidities of all patients were recorded. Oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal samples were collected and tested for SARSCoV-2, Influenza A, Influenza A (H3N2), Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09-pandemic 2009, and Influenza B using real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 for Windows. Results: Out of the 400 SARI patients, 117 (29.25%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, 14 (3.5%) for Influenza A, 7 (1.75%) for Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09, and 4 (1%) for Influenza A (H3N2). The majority of cases in both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza were in the 41-60 years age group (47.86% and 57.14%, respectively). Males were predominantly infected in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients (62/117, 52.99%), while females were more infected in influenza positive cases (9/14, 64.28%). The most common presenting symptoms were fever, cough, dyspnoea, and sore throat in both cases. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and coronary artery disease were the most common co-morbidities observed. Conclusion: Evaluation of clinical and epidemiological profiles of SARI patients can aid in better understanding and management of outbreaks. Close monitoring and quarantine measures will be necessary to prevent extensive transmission within the community

We describe a new species of Hemidactylus based on an integrative taxonomic framework from scrub habitats at the southern tip of India, in Thoothukudi District, Tamil Nadu. The new species has the most densely packed tubercles among Indian Hemidactylus, almost resembling the most tuberculate Indian Cyrtopodion. Hemidactylus quartziticolus sp. nov. is phylogenetically placed within the brookii group of Indian Hemidactylus, where it is sister to the H. gleadowi complex from western-central India. The new species is 14.5–23.7% divergent in ND2 mitochondrial sequence data from other brookii group members, and can be easily diagnosed from regional congeners by its unique dorsal scalation, the number and arrangement of precloacal-femoral pores, the number of dorsal tubercle rows at midbody, number of lamellae under digit I and IV of manus and pes. The new species is currently known only from two isolated, low quartzite hillocks 45 km apart with scrubby, thorn forests and loose, stony soil.

A study was carried out during 2020–21 and 2021–22 at the research farm of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to investigate efficacy of different fertilizers on yield, yield attributing characters and biochemical parameter on pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Different doses of RDF 50%, 75%, 100% FYM, biofertilizers were evaluated against control by following randomized complete block design, 22 treatments with 3 replications. The results revealed that yield parameters, viz. fruit weight (260.83 g), aril weight (168.00 g), rind weight (92.83g), rind thickness (3.63 mm), fruit length (6.64 cm) and fruit diameter width (4.82 cm), number of fruits per tree (105.61), yield (27.55 kg/tree), fruit firmness (28.76 lb/inch2), fruit cracking (26.17%), fruit set (42.30%), fruit retention (76.19%), fruit drop (23.81%); and biochemical parameters, viz. juice content (35.23%), TSS (14.15 °Brix), acidity (0.82%) and TSS acid ratio (17.37), total sugar (12.06%), reducing sugar (9.86%), non- reducing sugar (2.31%), sugar: acid ratio (41.00) ascorbic acid (16.79 mg/100 g) and anthocyanin content (4.94 mg/100 g) were significantly affected by different organic amendments and biofertilizers treatment against control. Treatment T21-100% RDF + FYM + Azotobacter + PSB proved most effective in enhancing yield attributing characters and biochemical parameters of pomegranate. This treatment gave best result by increasing the nutritional status of the plant through the beneficial effects of different fertilizers.

According to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), 90% of the state's fatal lane departure crashes between 2015 and 2019 occurred on rural roads. Of these, 77% were single-vehicle events. The objective here was to identify relatively high-risk areas on the rural road system. Spatial analysis techniques were explored as a beneficial tool in resource allocations aimed at single-vehicle crash prevention. Hotspot identification techniques, including Global Moran's I, local Moran's I, network kernel density estimation (NetKDE), and emerging hotspot analysis were employed. While the Global Moran's I index indicated the existence of crash clustering, the local Moran's I statistic revealed hot and cold spots in the state. The NetKDE approach was used to quantify crash clusters and prioritize locations. Results from NetKDE defined boundaries for each cluster in terms of density values embedded in the roadway. Emerging hotspot analysis evaluated the hot and cold spots with respect to time. This study will provide valuable insight and help decision makers to make more informed decisions with respect to education, enforcement and infrastructure strategies aimed at preventing single-vehicle lane departure crashes. Although limited to a narrow crash type in one state, this approach can inform other jurisdictions seeking to empirically visualize hotspots and more effectively deploy traffic safety strategies.

The SMC5/6 complex is critical for genome stability. Here, the authors identify mutations in SLF2 and SMC5 as cause of Atelís Syndrome characterized by microcephaly, short stature, anemia, segmented chromosomes and mosaic variegated hyperploidy.

An experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) season of 2018–19 and 2019–20 at the research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to study the effects of organic amendments and biofertilizers on biochemical and post-harvest parameters of guava fruits (Psidium guajava L. cv. Hisar Surkha). The experiment consisted of 19 treatments in different combinations and levels of RDF with vermicompost, farmyard manure, and biofertlizers were applied. The results revealed that almost all treatments with combined application of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients significantly influenced the biochemical and post-harvest parameters of guava fruits over control of which treatments T16 (RDF 100% + Farmyard manure + Azotobacter + PSB) and T17 (RDF 100 % + Vermicompost + Azotobacter + Phosphate solubilizing bacteria) proved most effective. All treatments had a significant impact on the total soluble solids, acidity, vitamin C, pectin and sugar content of fruit over the course of two years of experimentation. Shelf-life of fruits also increased with integrated use of 100% RDF with vermicompost and biofertilizers. Physiological loss in weight was minimum (9.73 and 18.34%; 9.61 and 18.46% after 4 and 8 days of harvesting) and shelf-life increased (4.74 and 6.85 days) in harvested fruit in T17 during rainy and winter season, respectively. The overall quality of the fruit was higher throughout the winter than during the rainy season. Hence, a portion of chemical fertilizers can be reduced in fertilization of guava plants through the integrated application of different organic amendments with improvement in different quality parameters.

The degeneration of nerve fibres following injury was first described by Augustus Waller over 170 years ago. Initially assumed to be a passive process, it is now evident that axons respond to insult via regulated cellular signaling events resulting in their programmed degeneration. Pro-survival and pro-degenerative factors have been identified and their regulatory mechanisms are beginning to emerge. The ubiquitin system has been implicated in the pro-degenerative process and a key component is the ubiquitin E3 ligase MYCBP2 (also known as PHR1). Ubiquitin E3 ligases are tasked with the transfer of the small protein modifier ubiquitin to substrates and consist of hundreds of members. They can be classified as single subunit systems or as multi-subunit complexes. Their catalytic domains can also be assigned to three general architectures. Hints that MYCBP2 might not conform to these established formats came to light and it is now clear from biochemical and structural studies that MYCBP2 is indeed an outlier in terms of its modus operandi. Furthermore, the unconventional way in which MYCBP2 transfers ubiquitin to substrates has been linked to neurodevelopmental and pro-degenerative function. Herein, we will summarize these research developments relating to the unusual features of MYCBP2 and postulate therapeutic strategies that prevent Wallerian degeneration. These have exciting potential for providing relief from pathological neuropathies and neurodegenerative diseases.

Blockchain is a revolutionary technology that enables users to communicate in a trust-less manner. It revolutionizes the modes of business between organizations without the need for a trusted third party. It is a distributed ledger technology based on a decentralized peer-to-peer (P2P) network. It enables users to store data globally on thousands of computers in an immutable format and empowers users to deploy small pieces of programs known as smart contracts. The blockchain-based smart contract enables auto enforcement of the agreed terms between two untrusted parties. There are several security vulnerabilities in Ethereum blockchain-based smart contracts, due to which sometimes it does not behave as intended. Because a smart contract can hold millions of dollars as cryptocurrency, so these security vulnerabilities can lead to disastrous losses. In this paper, a systematic review of the security vulnerabilities in the Ethereum blockchain is presented. The main objective is to discuss Ethereum smart contract security vulnerabilities, detection tools, real life attacks and preventive mechanisms. Comparisons are drawn among the Ethereum smart contract analysis tools by considering various features. From the extensive depth review, various issues associated with the Ethereum blockchain-based smart contract are highlighted. Finally, various future directions are also discussed in the field of the Ethereum blockchain-based smart contract that can help the researchers to set the directions for future research in this domain.

Blockchain technology and its applications are gaining popularity day by day. It is a ground-breaking technology that allows users to communicate without the need of a trusted middleman. A smart contract (self-executable code) is deployed on the blockchain and auto executes due to a triggering condition. In a no-trust contracting environment, smart contracts can establish trust among parties. Terms and conditions embedded in smart contracts will be imposed immediately when specified criteria have been fulfilled. Due to this, the malicious assailants have a special interest in smart contracts. Blockchains are immutable means if some transaction is deployed or recorded on the blockchain, it becomes unalterable. Thus, smart contracts must be analyzed to ensure zero security vulnerabilities or flaws before deploying the same on the blockchain because a single vulnerability can lead to the loss of millions. For analyzing the security vulnerabilities of smart contracts, various analysis tools have been developed to create safe and secure smart contracts. This paper presents a systematic review on Ethereum smart contracts analysis tools. Initially, these tools are categorized into static and dynamic analysis tools. Thereafter, different sources code analysis techniques are studied such as taint analysis, symbolic execution, and fuzzing techniques. In total, 86 security analysis tools developed for Ethereum blockchain smart contract are analyzed regardless of tool type and analysis approach. Finally, the paper highlights some challenges and future recommendations in the field of Ethereum smart contracts.

Abstract Urinary ethyl glucuronide (EtG), an alcohol biomarker, plays an essential role in monitoring alcohol abstinence and relapse during treatment for alcohol dependence. Detection of this biomarker has become a routine in many clinical and forensic laboratories over the last few years. Most previously published methods commonly use hyphenated chromatographic techniques along with extensive extraction procedure before analysis. This work aimed to develop and validate an electron impact ionization mode gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method to measure ethyl glucuronide levels in human urine. For its determination, urine samples were dried under a gentle stream of nitrogen, derivatized with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl) trifluoroacetamide, incubated, and injected into the instrument. The analysis was performed using single quadrupole gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology and validation was performed according to the guidelines of the German Society of Toxicology and Forensic Chemistry (GTFCh). The linearity of urinary EtG was obtained in the range of 30–5000 ng/ml with a correlation coefficient (r) above 0.999. The extraction recoveries exceeded 80%, and the obtained inter-day and intra-day precisions were below 15%. The achieved limit of detection was 10 ng/ml and limit of quantification achieved was 30 ng/ml. The electron ionization gas chromatography–mass spectrometry technique proves to be a feasible option for determining EtG in human urine when other sophisticated techniques are unapproachable. This method provides a good sensitivity and proves to be cost-effective, robust, and advantageous for both clinical as well as forensic settings.

Introduction: Blood group information is an integral part of clinical diagnosis using various haematological techniques to understand haematological disorders. Simultaneously, it is mandatory to have clear information on blood groups in case of blood transfusion and related matters. It is important to have complete history of the patients and the subjects including establishment and maintenance of blood banks. Aim: The aim was to study the clinical and physiological manifestations of blood group typing in social groups. Materials and Methods: The present observational study was carried out in four districts (Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh and Udham Singh Nagar) of Kumaun region of Uttarakhand, India from March 2018 to March 2019 to record the blood group of students from randomly selected schools and colleges. The collected numerical data was statistically analysed in the form of bar diagram by using Microsoft Excel software. Results: The present survey was carried out during the year 2018 in the colleges, covering 1073 students to understand the blood groups. During the investigation, the majority of students exhibited B+ (242) followed by O+ (237), A+ (208), AB+ (121), O- (15), B- (9), A- (8) and AB- (7) respectively. There were 226 students who refused to give blood sample for blood group typing due to fear and other unexplained reasons. O+ (237) and B+ (242) blood groups were observed as most common blood groups and ABblood group was found only in seven students. Conclusion: The present study yielded information basically on blood group pattern across the population and it can be used by blood donation blood bank societies for collection of blood from various groups.

Abstract Background Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) activation may improve myocardial performance in the context of ischaemia, independent of glycaemic control, in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods The LIONESS trial was a single-centre randomised double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study to determine whether prolonged GLP-1R activation could improve exercise haemodynamics in chronic stable angina patients. Eligibility criteria comprised angiographic evidence of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) and an abnormal baseline exercise tolerance test (ETT) demonstrating > 0.1 mV of planar or downsloping ST-segment depression (STD). Those randomised to active agent started with a 1-week run-in phase of 0.6 mg liraglutide daily, an established injectable GLP-1R agonist, followed by 1 week of 1.2 mg liraglutide, after which patients performed a week 2 ETT. Patients then self-administered 1.8 mg liraglutide for a week before completing a week 3 ETT. The placebo arm received visually and temporally matched daily saline injections. Participants then crossed over to a 3-week course of saline injections interspersed with a week 5 ETT and week 6 ETT and vice versa. Co-primary endpoints were rate pressure product (RPP) at 0.1 mV STD and magnitude of STD at peak exercise. Results Twenty-two patients (21 without diabetes) were randomised. There was no significant difference between saline versus liraglutide in the co-primary endpoints of RPP achieved at 0.1 mV STD (saline vs. liraglutide 1.2 mg p = 0.097; saline vs. liraglutide 1.8 mg p = 0.48) or the degree of STD at peak exercise (saline vs. liraglutide 1.2 mg p = 0.68; saline vs. liraglutide 1.8 mg p = 0.57). Liraglutide did not cause symptomatic hypoglycaemia, renal dysfunction, acute pancreatitis or provoke early withdrawal from the trial. Liraglutide significantly reduced weight (baseline 88.75 ± 16.5 kg vs. after liraglutide 87.78 ± 16.9 kg; p = 0.0008) and improved the lipid profile (mean total cholesterol: at baseline 3.97 ± 0.88 vs. after liraglutide 3.56 ± 0.71 mmol/L; p

Abstract 2D graphene oxide (GO) with large surface area, multivalent structure can easily bind single-stranded DNA/RNA (aptamers) through hydrophobic/π-stacking interactions, whereas aptamers having small size, excellent chemical stability and low immunogenicity bind to their targets with high affinity and specificity. GO–aptamer conjugate materials synthesized by integrating aptamers with GO can thus provide a better alternative to antibody-based strategies for cancer diagnostic and therapy. Moreover, GO’s excellent fluorescence quenching properties can be utilized to develop efficient fluorescence-sensing platforms. In this review, recent advances in GO–aptamer conjugate materials for the detection of major cancer biomarkers have been discussed.

In the present research work, friction stir processing (FSP) has been adopted for the fabri­cation of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP) reinforced AZ91-D Mg-alloy matrix surface com­posite (NMMSC). The NMMSC was developed to replace the conventional bio-implants materials for short-term usage. The NMMSC has been prepared by adding nHAp rein­forcement in 12.5 % volumetric proportion in the AZ91-D alloy using the grooving technique followed by FSP. The FSP parameters were selected, such as the tool rotation of 1000 rpm, 50 mm/min transverse speed, and 5 multi-passes. The base alloy, normal FSPed, and fabricated NMMSC were characterized to study their micro-hardness values and biological performances. Improvement in microhardness value in the developed composites was observed due to the smaller grain size as a result of the dynamic recrystal­lization phenomenon. The antibacterial properties of FSPed and NMMSC specimens tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus were found to be superior as compared to the PM. The cytotoxicity of the FSPed & NMMSC specimens expressed as cell viability using MTT assay shows negligible toxicity as compared to PM and the cell viability was insignificantly decreased as the incubation period was extended. The microhardness and biological performance of NMMSC have been improved due to the grain refinement by FSP and the presence of nHAp reinforcement in the material.

Background and Aims: COVID-19 disease has imposed challenges in caring for non-Covid elective surgical patients. As elective surgeries become essential, we propose to evaluate our approach and outcomes of surgical procedures performed during the initial period of COVID-19 pandemic so as to provide a road-map for safer approach. Material and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated outcomes in patients who underwent essential elective and emergency surgeries during the 5-week period between April 18, 2020 and May 28, 2020. All patients were screened at the front desk on their arrival to identify possible exposure to SARS- CoV-2. Nasopharyngeal swab of patients requiring hospital admission was tested for COVID-19 by quantitative RT-PCR. Patients needing essential elective surgery were taken up for surgery if they tested negative for COVID-19. Emergency procedures were undertaken in a demarcated theatre for COVID after taking level-3 protection without delay. The clinical data was reviewed and analysed. Results: A total of 764 surgical procedures were conducted, of which 70.7% were elective essential surgeries, with 95.4% of these patients being discharged in stable healthy condition. Approximately 23% of the elective and 26% of the emergency surgeries was categorised in the surgical difficulty category III and majority of these were performed under general anesthesia. Postoperative mortality was 1.04%, but the overall mortality rate was approximately 2.5%. Only two patients (0.3%) tested positive for COVID-19 in our series. Conclusion: A robust preoperative screening and testing can enable safe scheduling of essential elective surgeries.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of non-genetic factors on performance and body conformation traits along with estimation of heritability and breeding values of these traits in Harnali sheep. Nongenetic factors had significant effect on the performance and body conformation traits in Harnali sheep. Heritability estimates varied from low to moderate for performance traits indicating the presence of genetic variability which could be used for further improvement of these traits. Comparatively higher heritability estimates for body conformation traits in the present study indicated towards the presence of genetic variability which might be due to the reason that linear type traits were not included in the selection criterion of Harnali sheep so far. High genetic variability in these traits noticeably indicated the scope of improvement in these body dimensions through selection. Breeding value estimates for different performance and body conformation traits pointed the variability between the genetic merit of individuals which can be exploited through selection for making improvement in the considered traits in Harnali sheep.

Despite being the first homolog of the bacterial RecQ helicase to be identified in humans, the function of RECQL1 remains poorly characterized. Furthermore, unlike other members of the human RECQ family of helicases, mutations in RECQL1 have not been associated with a genetic disease. Here, we identify 2 families with a genome instability disorder that we have named RECON (RECql ONe) syndrome, caused by biallelic mutations in the RECQL gene. The affected individuals had short stature, progeroid facial features, a hypoplastic nose, xeroderma, and skin photosensitivity and were homozygous for the same missense mutation in RECQL1 (p.Ala459Ser), located within its zinc binding domain. Biochemical analysis of the mutant RECQL1 protein revealed that the p.A459S missense mutation compromised its ATPase, helicase, and fork restoration activity, while its capacity to promote single-strand DNA annealing was largely unaffected. At the cellular level, this mutation in RECQL1 gave rise to a defect in the ability to repair DNA damage induced by exposure to topoisomerase poisons and a failure of DNA replication to progress efficiently in the presence of abortive topoisomerase lesions. Taken together, RECQL1 is the fourth member of the RecQ family of helicases to be associated with a human genome instability disorder.

MDC1 and H2AX interact and accumulate at sites of DNA damage, functioning to recruit additional factors involved in the repair process. Here the authors uncover a function for MDC1 that is independent of the presence of H2AX and is mediated through its PST-repeat region.

Fifty oat genotypes belonging to eight different Avena species were evaluated to assess the genetic diversity and genetic divergence. The observations were recorded on five randomly selected plants in each genotype for quantitative traits. The Non-hierarchical Euclidean cluster analysis grouped oat genotypes into six clusters indicating presence of substantial genetic diversity in the evaluated germplasm. The highest intra-cluster distance which was observed in cluster VI followed by cluster I, cluster II, cluster V, cluster IV and cluster III. A maximum inter cluster distance showed between cluster II and cluster III followed by between cluster III and cluster IV. The minimum inter cluster distance was noticed between cluster V and cluster IV. Cluster II and III had better cluster means for many characters, so genotypes from these clusters can be used as parents for future breeding programmes. A total of eight principal components were extracted on the basis of eigen values (>1) and these components explained total of 75% variability. Varimax rotation enabled loading of all the traits on different principal factors. The first principal factor (PF) showed high loading for flag leaf length, dry fodder yield per plant and green fodder yield per plant. The second factor was composed of some of trait like high dry fodder yield, dry matter per cent, leaf length and leaf width. It is clear that both of the first three factors which would express the combined effect of flag leaf length, leaf length, leaf width, high dry matter per cent, high green fodder yield per plant were most closely associated with dry fodder yield per plant whereas, last three factors were associated with seed yield.

The ability of microorganisms to detoxify xenobiotic compounds allows them to thrive in a toxic environment using carbon, phosphorus, sulfur, and nitrogen from the available sources. Biotransformation is the most effective and useful metabolic process to degrade xenobiotic compounds. Microorganisms have an exceptional ability due to particular genes, enzymes, and degradative mechanisms. Microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi have unique properties that enable them to partially or completely metabolize the xenobiotic substances in various ecosystems.There are many cutting-edge approaches available to understand the molecular mechanism of degradative processes and pathways to decontaminate or change the core structure of xenobiotics in nature. These methods examine microorganisms, their metabolic machinery, novel proteins, and catabolic genes. This article addresses recent advances and current trends to characterize the catabolic genes, enzymes and the techniques involved in combating the threat of xenobiotic compounds using an eco-friendly approach.

The guava (Psidium guajava L.), known as ‘Apple of the Tropics’ is a rich source of polyphenols, pectin, dietary fiber, and carotenoids. Guava comes under climacteric types of fruits; due to its high transpiration and respiration rate it experiences high post-harvest losses. Giloy leaf and ajwain seed herbal extracts-based nano-formulations (NFs) were synthesized using biopolymer sodium alginate and CaCl2, viz., T1 (Alginate: CaCl2), T2 (Alginate: CaCl2: Ajwain extract), and T3 (Alginate: CaCl2: Giloy extract). Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of the NFs were examined to check their efficacy as antibacterial agents, which was checked against E. coli, P. aeruginosa and B. cereus bacterial culture. The zone of inhibition against bacteria ranged from 6 ± 0.42 mm to 14 ± 0.92 mm. Antioxidant activity was 93.27%, 71.67%, and 67.04% for T2, T3 and T1 NFs and 89.90% and 67.05% for ajwain and giloy extracts. NFs treated fruits showed minimum loss in physiological weight, firmness, and color change compared to control fruit (uncoated). Physiological loss in weight ranged from 3.16 to 17.21% and 3.23 to 15.57% and fruit firmness ranged from 4.47 to 8.41 kg/cm2 and 4.84 to 8.37 kg/cm2 during storage at 25 ± 2 °C (incubation) and 32 ± 2 °C (room temperature), respectively. Among NFs, T2 showed the best results in preventing ripening and maximum loss of quality was observed in control (uncoated) fruits. Thus, NFs are an effective method of extending the shelf-life of fruits and ajwain based NFs increased shelf life of guava from 4–5 days to 7–8 days. Fruits storage at 25 ± 2 °C showed better results compared to storage at 32 ± 2 °C. Thus, NFs treated fruits storage at lower temperature controls the ripening related changes maximally.

Abstract Coronary artery disease (CAD) can adversely affect left ventricular (LV) performance during exercise by impairment of contractile function in the presence of increasing afterload. By performing invasive measures of LV pressure–volume and coronary pressure and flow during exercise, we sought to accurately measure this with comparison to the control group. Sixteen patients, with CCS class >II angina and CAD underwent invasive simultaneous measurement of left ventricular pressure–volume and coronary pressure and flow velocity during cardiac catheterization. Measurements performed at rest were compared with peak exercise using bicycle ergometry. The LV contractile function was measured invasively using the end‐systolic pressure–volume relationship, a load independent marker of contractile function (Ees). Vascular afterload forces were derived from the ratio of LV end‐systolic pressure to stroke volume to generate arterial elastance (Ea). These were combined to assess cardiovascular performance (ventricular‐arterial [VA] coupling ratio [Ea/Ees]). Eleven patients demonstrated flow‐limiting (FL) CAD (hyperemic Pd/Pa

Pathogenic microorganisms and their chronic pathogenicity are significant concerns in biomedical research. Biofilm-linked persistent infections are not easy to treat due to resident multidrug-resistant microbes. Low efficiency of various treatments and in vivo toxicity of available antibiotics drive the researchers toward the discovery of many effective natural anti-biofilm agents. Natural extracts and natural product-based anti-biofilm agents are more efficient than the chemically synthesized counterparts with lesser side effects. The present review primarily focuses on various natural anti-biofilm agents, i.e., phytochemicals, biosurfactants, antimicrobial peptides, and microbial enzymes along with their sources, mechanism of action via interfering in the quorum-sensing pathways, disruption of extracellular polymeric substance, adhesion mechanism, and their inhibitory concentrations existing in literature so far. This study provides a better understanding that a particular natural anti-biofilm molecule exhibits a different mode of actions and biofilm inhibitory activity against more than one pathogenic species. This information can be exploited further to improve the therapeutic strategy by a combination of more than one natural anti-biofilm compounds from diverse sources.

Sorghum is a multipurpose crop being used as food, feed, fodder and fuel. The objective of the study was to investigate breeding values of new F1 forage sorghum hybrids using line x tester crossing of six A1 cytoplasm type male sterile lines with five fertile local inbred lines and varieties, and 30 F1 hybrids were produced. Both parental lines and their F1 hybrids were field-evaluated for yield and quality traits for two successive years. On the basis of two year hybrids evaluation programme, the lines, 637 A and 753 A were good general combiners for fodder yield and related traits and the lines 467A was found good general combiner for total soluble solids TSS. The testers HJ 541 and IS 2389 were found good general combiners for various yield traits and TSS. On the basis of specific combining ability, the crosses 467A X 2389, 725A X 308, 2219A X G46 and 2219A X HJ 541 were found to be promising for yield related traits. The crosses 467A X 2389, 637AX HJ 541, 637A X HC 308 exhibited good standard heterosis for fodder yield and related traits and the crosses 9A X 2389, 725A X 2389 and 753A X 2389 for TSS. On the basis of above study 467A X 2389 hybrid was found to be promising for fodder yield and related traits.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic condition and a major public health problem. It is associated with many musculoskeletal manifestations which are usually under-recognized and poorly treated, as compared to other complications like neuropathy, nephropathy and retinopathy. These manifestations affect the joints, soft tissues and the bones leading to alterations in musculoskeletal system of the patient. This article reviews the major rheumatological problems of diabetes mellitus including their management.

Abstract A catalyst-free C–P bond-formation in an open flask at room temperature between isatin derivatives and phosphorus surrogates on water is described. Isatin derivatives possessing different substitutes underwent C–P coupling reaction with a variety of phosphine oxides under the reaction conditions employed, providing the desired products in up to quantitative yields.

The application of natural fibers such as Jute/bagasse with glass fiber hybrid advanced composites has gained increasing interest both in many areas of engineering and technology. Hybrid plates of two compositions, i.e., Jute fiber mat-chopped glass fiber and Chopped Bagasse-glass fiber mat with epoxy as a matrix were fabricated using hand lay-up technique and their mechanical properties were evaluated. Tensile strength (TS), tensile modulus (TM), elongation at break (Eb%) and hardness of the composite samples were evaluated as per ASTM standards. Moisture absorption capacity for the above two compositions have been found out by hygrometric principle and it was concluded that the water absorption increased as the weight% of natural reinforcement increased. Degradation test has been carried out by burying the samples for different period (15–30 days) in the soil and it was found that as the weight% of natural fiber reinforcement increased the degradation rate increased. Tensile strength was found to be increased (11%) by alkali (NaOH) treatment of the natural fiber. The composite specimens were also immersed in the water for 24 hours and decrement in the tensile strength was noted. Microscopic examinations were carried out to analyse the interfacial characteristics of materials, internal structure of the fractured surfaces and material failure morphology by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).

AIM: The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab and posterior subtenons triamcinolone acetate in the management of diffuse diabetic macular edema (DME) and to evaluate their efficacy as an adjunct to modified grid laser in management of DME. DESIGN: This was a prospective, randomized clinical trial of 30 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 30 patients attending the medical ophthalmology clinic at a tertiary care hospital were included in the study. These 30 patients were divided into two groups. Group I (15 eyes) received intravitreal bevacizumab followed by modified grid photocoagulation 2 weeks after injection. Group II (15 eyes) received posterior subtenons triamcinolone followed by modified grid photocoagulation 2 weeks after injection. Each patient in our study was followed up at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, and 6 months after the initial injection to record the central macular thickness (CMT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). RESULTS: Both the combination therapies have efficacy to reduce the CMT (P = 0.001). The percentage fall in CMT was greater in bevacizumab + laser group, and there was a significant difference in the CMT values at the end of the study in the bevacizumab group (P = 0.013). The mean BCVA improved in both the groups and this difference was statistically significant compared to the baseline (P = 0.005). However, there was no statistically significant difference in BCVA between the two groups at the end of the study. CONCLUSION: Both intravitreal bevacizumab and posterior subtenons triamcinolone given as an adjuvant therapy along with modified grid laser are equally efficacious in the reduction of the CMT; however, the percentage fall in the CMT was greater in bevacizumab + laser group, and there was a significant difference in the fall in CMT at all the visits as compared to a plateau in the fall of CMT in posterior subtenons triamcinolone group.

The adenovirus 12 early region 1B55K (Ad12E1B55K) protein has long been known to cause non-random damage to chromosomes 1 and 17 in human cells. These sites, referred to as Ad12 modification sites, have marked similarities to classic fragile sites. In the present report we have investigated the effects of Ad12E1B55K on the cellular DNA damage response and on DNA replication, considering our increased understanding of the pathways involved. We have compared human skin fibroblasts expressing Ad12E1B55K (55K+HSF), but no other viral proteins, with the parental cells. Appreciable chromosomal damage was observed in 55K+HSFs compared to parental cells. Similarly, an increased number of micronuclei was observed in 55K+HSFs, both in cycling cells and after DNA damage. We compared DNA replication in the two cell populations; 55K+HSFs showed increased fork stalling and a decrease in fork speed. When replication stress was introduced with hydroxyurea the percentage of stalled forks and replication speeds were broadly similar, but efficiency of fork restart was significantly reduced in 55K+HSFs. After DNA damage, appreciably more foci were formed in 55K+HSFs up to 48 h post treatment. In addition, phosphorylation of ATM substrates was greater in Ad12E1B55K-expressing cells following DNA damage. Following DNA damage, 55K+HSFs showed an inability to arrest in cell cycle, probably due to the association of Ad12E1B55K with p53. To confirm that Ad12E1B55K was targeting components of the double-strand break repair pathways, co-immunoprecipitation experiments were performed which showed an association of the viral protein with ATM, MRE11, NBS1, DNA-PK, BLM, TOPBP1 and p53, as well as with components of the replisome, MCM3, MCM7, ORC1, DNA polymerase δ, TICRR and cdc45, which may account for some of the observed effects on DNA replication. We conclude that Ad12E1B55K impacts the cellular DNA damage response pathways and the replisome at multiple points through protein–protein interactions, causing genomic instability.

Salt stress is one of the major constraints affecting plant growth and agricultural productivity worldwide. Sorghum is a valuable food source and a potential model for studying and better understanding the salt stress mechanics in the cereals and obtaining a more comprehensive knowledge of their cellular responses. Herein, we examined the effects of salinity on reserve mobilization, antioxidant potential, and expression analysis of starch synthesis genes. Our findings show that germination percentage is adversely affected by all salinity levels, more remarkably at 120 mM (36% reduction) and 140 mM NaCl (46% reduction) than in the control. Lipid peroxidation increased in salt-susceptible genotypes (PC-5: 2.88 and CSV 44F: 2.93 nmloe/g.FW), but not in tolerant genotypes. SSG 59-3 increased activities of α-amylase, and protease enzymes corroborated decreased starch and protein content, respectively. SSG 59-3 alleviated adverse effects of salinity by suppressing oxidative stress (H2O2) and stimulating enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities (SOD, APX, CAT, POD, GR, and GPX), as well as protecting cell membrane integrity (MDA, electrolyte leakage). A significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) was also observed in SSG 59-3 with proline, ascorbic acid, and total carbohydrates. Among inorganic cations and anions, Na+, Cl−, and SO42− increased, whereas K+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ decreased significantly. SSG 59-3 had a less pronounced effect of excess Na+ ions on the gene expression of starch synthesis. Salinity also influenced Na+ ion efflux and maintained a lower cytosolic Na+/K+ ratio via concomitant upregulation of SbNHX-1 and SbVPPase-I ion transporter genes. Thus, we have highlighted that salinity physiologically and biochemically affect sorghum seedling growth. Based on these findings, we highlighted that SSG 59-3 performed better by retaining higher plant water status, antioxidant potential, and upregulation of ion transporter genes and starch synthesis, thereby alleviating stress, which may be augmented as genetic resources to establish sorghum cultivars with improved quality in saline soils.

Abstract Background Paclitaxel (taxol) is a potent anticancer drug that is used in the treatment of a wide variety of cancerous. In the present study, we identified a taxol derivative named 7-epi-10-deacetyltaxol (EDT) from the culture of an endophytic fungus Pestalotiopsis microspora isolated from the bark of Taxodium mucronatum. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of fungal EDT on cell proliferation, the induction of apoptosis and the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis in human hepatoma HepG2 cells in vitro. Methods The endophytic fungus was identified by traditional and molecular taxonomical characterization and the fungal EDT was purified using column chromatography and confirmed by various spectroscopic and chromatographic comparisons with authentic paclitaxel. We studied the in vitro effects of EDT on HepG2 cells for parameters such as cell cycle distribution, DNA fragmentation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and nuclear morphology. Further, western blot analysis was used to evaluate Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), p38-mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase (PARP) expression. Results We demonstrate that the fungal EDT exhibited significant in vitro cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. We investigated cytotoxicity mechanism of EDT in HepG2 cells. The results showed nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation were observed in cells treated with fungal EDT. Besides, the fungal EDT arrested HepG2 cells at G2/M phase of cell cycle. Furthermore, fungal EDT induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner associated with ROS generation and increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, p38 MAPKs and PARP cleavage. Conclusions Our data show that EDT induced apoptotic cell death in HepG2 cells occurs through intrinsic pathway by generation of ROS mediated and activation of MAPK pathway. This is the first report for 7-epi-10-deacetyltaxol (EDT) isolated from a microbial source.

Abstract Background There is emerging evidence of the central role of neutrophils in both atherosclerotic plaque formation and rupture. Patients with lower neutrophil counts following acute coronary syndromes tend to have a greater coronary flow reserve, which is a strong predictor of long-term cardiovascular health. But so far, no data are available regarding the impact of neutrophil inhibition on cardiovascular clinical or surrogate endpoints. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of AZD5069, a cysteine-X-cysteine chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) inhibitor, on coronary flow reserve and coronary structure and function in patients with coronary artery disease. Methods/Design Ninety subjects with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention will be included in this investigator-driven, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, phase IIa, single-centre study. Participants will be randomised to receive either AZD5069 (40 mg) administered orally twice daily or placebo for 24 weeks. Change in coronary flow reserve as determined by 13N-ammonia positron emission tomography-computed tomography will be the primary outcome. Change in the inflammatory component of coronary plaque structure and the backward expansion wave, an invasive coronary physiological measure of diastolic function, will be assessed as secondary outcomes. Discussion Cardiovascular surrogate parameters, such as coronary flow reserve, may provide insights into the potential mechanisms of the cardiovascular effects of CXCR2 inhibitors. Currently, ongoing trials do not specifically focus on neutrophil function as a target of intervention, and we therefore believe that our study will contribute to a better understanding of the role of neutrophil-mediated inflammation in coronary artery disease. Trial registration EudraCT, 2016-000775-24 . Registered on 22 July 2016. International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number, ISRCTN48328178 . Registered on 25 February 2016.

AIM: To evaluate if the nature, degree and extent of Siaα2-3-/Siaα2-6-sialylation of retinal protein glycans plays a possible role in the development and regulation of electroretinogram response (ERG) in mice. METHODS: Proteins extracted, from retinae of postnatal day 2 (PN2), PN7, and PN14 wild type (wt) and retinal degeneration 1 (rd1) mice were quantified, labeled and used for lectin-microarray profiling with immobilized lectins which recognize a wide range of N-/O-glycans. Net fluorescence intensities of lectin-ligand complexes were measured and images of fluorescent lectin-microarrays were acquired. From the binding curves between each lectin and protein extracts from PN14 wt and PN14 rd1 mice retinae, the protein concentration was selected to determine optimum signal intensity for lectin-ligand binding. Mean±SEM values of proteins and fluorescence-intensities of lectin-ligand-complexes between 45 lectins and 36 protein extracts from wt and rd1 mice retinae were compared for significance of differences. RESULTS: Comparison of the progressive relative changes in the sialylated glycans of retinal proteins from wt and rd1 mice showed that Siaα2-3Galβ1-4GlcNAc-glycans (but not Siaα2-6-glycans) were detectable and quantifiable from the retinal-proteins of PN7 and PN14 wt and rd1 mice. Siaα2-3-sialylation of retinal-protein Gal/α-linked-Gal-glycans was significantly increased with age in PN7 and PN14 wt and less so in PN14 rd1 mice. Siaα2-3-/Siaα2-6-sialylation of retinal-protein Gal/α-linked-Gal-glycans was absent in PN2 wt and rd1 mice. Comparison of published ERG responses of wt and rd1 mice retinae with degree of Siaα2-3-sialylation of retinal-protein-glycans showed that PN2 wt and rd1 mice lack both the ERG response and Siaα2-3-/Siaα2-6-sialylation of retinal-protein Gal/α-linked-Gal-glycans; rd1 mice with relatively lower Siaα2-3-sialylation of retinal-protein Gal/α-linked-Gal-glycans showed aberrant ERG response; and wt mice with significantly higher Siaα2-3-sialylation of retinal-protein Gal/α-linked-Gal-glycans showed normal ERG response. CONCLUSION: Degree of Siaα2-3-sialylation of glycans possibly regulates ERG function in mice.

Abstract Background Hot springs harbor rich bacterial diversity that could be the source of commercially important enzymes, antibiotics and many more products. Most of the hot springs present in Northeast of India are unexplored and their microbial diversity analysis could be of great interest to facilitate various industrial, agricultural and medicinal applications. The present study is an attempt to analyze the comprehensive bacterial diversity of Yumthang hot spring, Sikkim located at an altitude of 11, 800 ft. with a close proximity of Tibet 27° 47′ 30″ N 88° 42′ E using culture independent approach i.e. 16S rRNA gene amplicon metagenomic sequencing. Results The temperature and pH of the hot spring was recorded as 390–410 C and 8 respectively. Metagenome comprised of 1, 381,343 raw sequences with a sequence length of 151 bp and 55.62% G + C content. Metagenome sequence information is submitted at NCBI, SRA database under accession no. SRP057072. A total of 9, 95, 955 pre-processed reads were clustered into 1, 999 representative OTUs (operational taxonomical units) phylogenetically comprising of 17 bacterial phyla including unknown phylum indicating 99 families. Hot spring bacterial community is dominated by Proteobacteria (54.33%), Actinobacteria (32.19%), Firmicutes (6.03%), Bacteroidetes (2.87%) and unclassified bacteria (2.91%) respectively out of the total reads. Conclusions Several bacterial and archaeal sequences remained taxonomically unclassified, indicating potentially novel microorganisms in this hot spring ecosystem. Metagenomics of this habitat will facilitate identification of microorganisms possessing industrially relevant traits.