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Background. Active case finding (ACF) for tuberculosis (TB) is a promising tool to enhance early case detection among marginalized populations. As opposed to passive case finding, it involves systematically searching for TB in individuals who would not spontaneously present for care. The National TB Program (NTP) of India has initiated ACF for TB through the existing general health system since the end of 2017. However, prior to scale-up, there is need for exploring the implementation challenges and solutions to improve the efficiency of this program. Objectives. (1) To explore the enablers and challenges in the implementation of ACF for TB by NTP in the Bengaluru rural district of Karnataka, South India, and (2) to explore the perceived solutions to improve the efficiency of ACF activity. Methods. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted in the Bengaluru rural district during July 2018. In-depth interviews using purposively selected health care providers involved in active case finding (n=9) and presumptive TB patients (n=8) were conducted. Manual content analysis was conducted by two independent researchers to generate categories and themes. Results. The challenges in conduct of ACF were as follows: inadequate training of health care workers, shortage of staff, indifferent attitude of community due to stigma, lack of awareness about TB, illiteracy, inability to convince patients for sputum test, and delay in getting CBNAAT results. The field staff recommended the installation of mobile CBNAAT machine, involvement of general health staff in activity, training of health workers on counseling of patients, and issue of identity cards for community health workers/volunteers so that people recognize them. Conclusion. The health system challenges in conduct of ACF need to be addressed by training the health staff involved in activity and also improving the access to TB diagnostics.

Globally, many developing countries are facing silent epidemics of nutritional deficiencies in human beings and animals. The lack of diversity in diet, i.e., cereal-based crops deficient in mineral nutrients is an additional threat to nutritional quality. The present review accounts for the significance of biofortification as a process to enhance the productivity of crops and also an agricultural solution to address the issues of nutritional security. In this endeavor, different innovative and specific biofortification approaches have been discussed for nutrient enrichment of field crops including cereals, pulses, oilseeds and fodder crops. The agronomic approach increases the micronutrient density in crops with soil and foliar application of fertilizers including amendments. The biofortification through conventional breeding approach includes the selection of efficient genotypes, practicing crossing of plants with desirable nutritional traits without sacrificing agricultural and economic productivity. However, the transgenic/biotechnological approach involves the synthesis of transgenes for micronutrient re-translocation between tissues to enhance their bioavailability. Soil microorganisms enhance nutrient content in the rhizosphere through diverse mechanisms such as synthesis, mobilization, transformations and siderophore production which accumulate more minerals in plants. Different sources of micronutrients viz. mineral solutions, chelates and nanoparticles play a pivotal role in the process of biofortification as it regulates the absorption rates and mechanisms in plants. Apart from the quality parameters, biofortification also improved the crop yield to alleviate hidden hunger thus proving to be a sustainable and cost-effective approach. Thus, this review article conveys a message for researchers about the adequate potential of biofortification to increase crop productivity and nourish the crop with additional nutrient content to provide food security and nutritional quality to humans and livestock.

Diversity evaluation provides opportunity to assess genetically important distinct traits that will effectively contribute to improvement of genotypes. Assessing genetic diversity in a core collection is key to find out the ways to efficient utilization of genetic resource. Wheat cultivars spinning over a century were collected from the Indian Institute of Wheat & Barely Research (IIWBR), Karnal, made up of a core collection. The core set of data was analysed by multivariate methods. The experimental material consisted of ~100 genotypes which were evaluated in an Augmented Randomized Block Design. Quantitative characters like no. of grain per spike, no. of spikelet per spike, test weight and spike length were found to be the key yield contributing traits. Principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis of eight quantitative characters and genotypes fall into three principal component and three cluster respectively. Based on these experiment first and third cluster genotypes have high associated with PCI and PCIII. These principal components were made by grouping them high yield contributing traits. Genotypes in these clusters have higher values for yield contributing traits then the total average of traits. Genotypes belonging to superior clusters could be considered to very useful to developing high yielding varieties and other breeding activities.

Introduction: Medical emergencies can frequently happen in dental settings and the inability to cope with them can lead to tragic outcomes. Some factors can increase the risk of medical emergencies in dental settings. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices among dental practitioners and postgraduate students on the preparedness of medical emergencies. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based study was conducted on 86 postgraduates students and 56 dental practitioners in Mathura city to evaluate their knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding the preparedness of medical emergencies. A self-administered, multiple-choice type of questionnaire was administered to each participant in person, who took approximately 12 min to complete the questionnaire. SPSS Version 22.0 (IBM Corp) was used for statistical analysis. Fisher's exact test was used and the value of P < 0.001 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: A total of 83 (96.5%) postgraduate students and 51 (94.4%) dental practitioners had knowledge regarding how to perform basic life support and first-aid, and only 28 (51.9%) dental practitioners could handle any emergency condition at their dental office. Furthermore, 45 (52.3%) postgraduate students and 49 (90.7%) dental practitioners attended workshops on emergency training (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Basic knowledge regarding diagnosis of medical emergencies and dealing with the same was better among the postgraduate students. They also had a better attitude toward handling of medical emergencies compared to dental practitioners. The dental practitioners ranked higher in majority of the aspects in handling medical emergencies.

Biofortification of pulse crops with Zn and Fe is a viable approach to combat their widespread deficiencies in humans. Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is a widely consumed edible crop possessing a high level of Zn and Fe micronutrients. Thus, the present study was conducted to examine the influence of foliar application of Zn and Fe on productivity, concentration, uptake and the economics of lentil cultivation (LL 931). For this, different treatment combinations of ZnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) and FeSO4·7H2O (0.5%), along with the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), were applied to the lentil. The results of study reported that the combined foliar application of ZnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) + FeSO4·7H2O (0.5%) at pre-flowering (S1) and pod formation (S2) stages was most effective in enhancing grain and straw yield, Zn and Fe concentration, and uptake. However, the outcome of this treatment was statistically on par with the results obtained under the treatment ZnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) + FeSO4·7H2O (0.5%) at S1 stage. A single spray of ZnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) + FeSO4·7H2O (0.5%) at S1 stage enhanced the grain and straw yield up to 39.6% and 51.8%, respectively. Similarly, Zn and Fe concentrations showed enhancement in grain (10.9% and 20.4%, respectively) and straw (27.5% and 27.6% respectively) of the lentil. The increase in Zn and Fe uptake by grain was 54.8% and 68.0%, respectively, whereas uptake by straw was 93.6% and 93.7%, respectively. Also the benefit:cost was the highest (1.96) with application of ZnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) + FeSO4·7H2O (0.5%) at S1 stage. Conclusively, the combined use of ZnSO4·7H2O (0.5%) + FeSO4·7H2O (0.5%) at S1 stage can contribute significantly towards yield, Zn and Fe concentration, as well as uptake and the economic returns of lentil to remediate the Zn and Fe deficiency.

To achieve the nutritional target of human food, boron (B) has been described as an essential mineral in determining seed and theoretical oil yield of Sesamum indicum L. The research to increase its cultivation is garnering attention due to its high oil content, quality and its utilization for various purposes, which include human nutrition as well as its use in the food industry. For this, a two-year field experiment was performed at PAU, Punjab, India to determine the effect of different concentrations of foliar-applied B (20, 30 and 40 mg L−1) and different growth stages of crop, i.e., we measured the effects on agroeconomic indicators and certain quality parameters of sesame using different concentrations of B applied at the flowering and capsule formation stages as compared to using water spray and untreated plants. Water spray did not significantly affect the studied parameters. However, B application significantly increased the yield, uptake, antioxidant activity (AOA) and theoretical oil content (TOC) compared to those of untreated plants. The maximum increase in seed yield (26.75%), B seed and stover uptake (64.08% and 69.25%, respectively) as well as highest AOA (69.41%) and benefit to cost ratio (B:C ratio 2.63) was recorded when B was applied at 30 mg L−1 at the flowering and capsule formation stages. However, the maximum sesame yield and B uptake were recorded when B was applied at a rate of 30 mg L−1. A significant increase in TOC was also recorded with a B application rate of 30 mg L−1. For efficiency indices, the higher values of boron agronomic efficiency (BAE) and boron crop recovery efficiency (BCRE) were recorded when B was applied at 20 mg L−1 (5.25 and 30.56, respectively) and 30 mg L−1 (4.96 and 26.11, respectively) at the flowering and capsule formation stages. In conclusion, application of B @ 30 mg L−1 at the flowering and capsule formation stages seemed a viable technique to enhance yield, B uptake and economic returns of sesame.

Integrated nutrient management (INM) is a widely recognized tool to ensure sustainable crop productivity while preserving soil fertility. The addition of organic manures in soil has been evidenced to improve soil characteristics, in addition to improving nutrient availability. The soil samples, with five treatment combinations of chemical fertilizers with farmyard manure (FYM), were collected from a 17-year-old field experiment conducted at PAU, Ludhiana to investigate the effect of INM on the buildup of organic carbon (OC), microbial community, soil nutrient status and improvement in soil physical properties under the maize–wheat cropping system. The INM technique enhanced the OC content (0.44 to 0.66%), available N (152.8 to 164.9 kg ha−1), P (22.8 to 31.4 kg ha−1) and K (140.6 to 168.0 kg ha−1) after 17 years. The DTPA-extractable and total micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn) status also improved significantly with FYM supplementation. The organic source, coupled with inorganic fertilizers, improved the water holding capacity, total porosity, soil respiration, microbial biomass C, microbial biomass N, and potentially mineralizable N. However, pH, EC, and bulk density of soil decreased with the addition of FYM, coupled with chemical fertilizers.

Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is an important winter oilseed crop in India. It acts as a promising species for the extraction of Zn and Fe under nutrient-deficit conditions. Therefore, this study planned to determine the impact of nutritional supplementation (Zn, Fe and urea) on the productivity and nutritional quality of Indian mustard. In the experiment, different combinations of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) with 0.5% FeSO4·7H2O, 0.5% ZnSO4·7H2O and 1% urea at 45 and 60 days after sowing (DAS) were applied to Indian mustard. Foliar application of micronutrients along with urea enhanced the productivity and quality of the crop. Among different treatments, the foliar application of 0.5% FeSO4·7H2O + 0.5% ZnSO4·7H2O + 1% urea (FZU) at 45 and 60 DAS resulted in the maximum increase in grain (27.8%) and stover (34.47%) yield, which was statistically at par with the treatment 0.5% FeSO4·7H2O + 0.5% ZnSO4·7H2O at 45 and 60 DAS (FZ). A similar trend was observed for Zn concentration in grain and stover, as well as Fe concentration in stover. However, the Fe concentration in grain was at maximum with treatment FZU, and the results were significantly higher compared with the treatment FZ. Treatment FZU also resulted in a maximum increase in Zn and Fe uptake in grain (54.7% and 34.3%, respectively) and stover (110.5% and 46.1%, respectively), which was statistically at par with treatment FZ. Physiological efficiencies of Zn (11,838.33) and Fe (3575.887) were highest when only urea was applied along with RDF, whereas the apparent recovery efficiency of Zn and Fe was highest in treatment FZU. Overall, it is concluded that combined foliar application of, 0.5% FeSO4·7H2O + 0.5% ZnSO4·7H2O + 1% urea at 45 and 60 DAS along with RDF was found to be most effective to enhance yield, concentration and uptake of Zn and Fe in Indian mustard.

Nanoparticles (NPs), due to their tailored properties, serve as potential sources of nutrients for the biofortification of edible grains. Chickpeas are a valued legume crop, widely consumed in developing countries. Thus, to improve the Zn and Fe content in chickpeas, a two-year study was conducted to examine the potential of the foliar application of mineral (0.5% Zn and Fe), chelated (0.3% Zn and Fe) and nanoforms (0.5% ZFN) of fertilizers to enhance Zn and Fe content in chickpea. The foliar application of 0.5% ZnO NPs + 0.5% Fe2O3 NPs (ZFN) at the pre-flowering stage showed the highest potential to increase grain yield, Zn and Fe content and their uptake as a single foliar application of nano-fertilizers showed comparable results to two foliar applications of mineral and chelated forms. The grain and straw yield (14.07 and 33.04 q ha−1, respectively) under ZFN treatment was significantly higher over the control (9.20 and 27.49 q ha−1, respectively). A similar trend was observed for Zn and Fe content in grain (42.29 and 86.51 mg kg−1, respectively). For nutrient uptake, ZFN treatment showed the highest uptake of Zn and Fe in grain (604.49 and 1226.22 g ha−1, respectively) and straw (729.55 and 9184.67 g ha−1, respectively). Thus, nano-fertilizers, due to their altered structural properties, demonstrated higher translocation over the mineral and chelated forms of nutrient fertilizers and thus improved yield and nutrient content to a greater extent. Thus, the foliar application of 0.5% ZnO NPs + 0.5% Fe2O3 NPs may prove to be a feasible option for the enrichment of chickpeas with Zn and Fe to ameliorate malnutrition in burgeoning human populations.

The escalating scarcity of irrigation water, transplantation of rice on light-textured soils and labour cost acted as major drivers for the transition towards direct-seeded rice (DSR) cultivation from the conventionally flooded transplanting system. Despite these advantages, DSR is a challenge in light texture soil due to heavy weed infestation and a slight decline in crop yield. The weeds compete for nutrients and have an adverse effect on the growth and yield of crops. Hence, to assess the removal of macro and micronutrients by weeds and direct-seeded rice, a field experiment was carried out on sandy loam soil for two consecutive Kharif seasons (2018 and 2019). Three treatments from rice, namely: DSR under zero tillage (DSR-ZT), DSR under conventional tillage (DSR-CT) and DSR under reduced tillage (DSR-RT) were taken as main plots with three tillage treatments in wheat, namely: Conventional tillage without rice straw (CTW-R), Zero tillage without rice straw (ZTW-R) and Zero tillage with straw as mulch using Happy Seeder (ZTW+R) as subplots, replicated thrice. Among the rice establishment methods, DSR-RT showed an edge in terms of rice grain and straw yield (6.18 and 8.14 Mg ha−1, respectively) as well as macro- and micronutrient uptake by rice. Under management practices, ZTW+R proved as an efficient strategy in terms of yield and nutrient uptake by crops. The contribution of weeds towards biomass production was maximum under the ZTW-R (9.44%) treatment followed by DSR-ZT (7.72%). The nutrient budgeting showed that macro- and micronutrient removal by weeds was minimum under reduced tillage (24.51 and 50.35%, respectively), whereas it was 21.88 and 44.87% when wheat was grown under conventional tillage without rice straw. In overall, the research study concluded that weeds on an average remove 25.65 % macronutrients (N, P, K) and 51.47% of micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn) in DSR under rice-wheat cropping system.

Automotive applications often experience conflicting-objective optimization problems focusing on performance parameters that are catered through precisely developed cost functions. Two such conflicting objectives which substantially affect the working of traction machine drive are maximizing its speed performance and minimizing its energy consumption. In case of an electric vehicle (EV) powertrain, drive energy is bounded by battery dynamics (charging and capacity) which depend on the consumption of drive voltage and current caused by driving cycle schedules, traffic state, EV loading, and drive temperature. In other words, battery consumption of an EV depends upon its drive energy consumption. A conventional control technique improves the speed performance of EV at the cost of its drive energy consumption. However, the proposed optimized energy control (OEC) scheme optimizes this energy consumption by using robust linear parameter varying (LPV) control tuned by genetic algorithms which significantly improves the EV powertrain performance. The analysis of OEC scheme is conducted on the developed vehicle simulator through MATLAB/Simulink based simulations as well as on an induction machine drive platform. The accuracy of the proposed OEC is quantitatively assessed to be 99.3% regarding speed performance which is elaborated by the drive speed, voltage, and current results against standard driving cycles.

Abstract Membrane bound respiratory complex I is the key enzyme in the respiratory chains of bacteria and mitochondria, and couples the reduction of quinone to the pumping of protons across the membrane. Recently solved crystal or electron microscopy structures of bacterial and mitochondrial complexes have provided significant insights into the electron and proton transfer pathways. However, due to large spatial separation between the electron and proton transfer routes, the molecular mechanism of coupling remains unclear. Here, based on atomistic molecular dynamics simulations performed on the entire structure of complex I from Thermus thermophilus, we studied the hydration of the quinone-binding site and the membrane-bound subunits. The data from simulations show rapid diffusion of water molecules in the protein interior, and formation of hydrated regions in the three antiporter-type subunits. An unexpected water-protein based connectivity between the middle of the Q-tunnel and the fourth proton channel is also observed. The protonation-state dependent dynamics of key acidic residues in the Nqo8 subunit suggest that the latter may be linked to redox-coupled proton pumping in complex I. We propose that in complex I the proton and electron transfer paths are not entirely separate, instead the nature of coupling may in part be ‘direct’.

The aim of this study is to recognize and scrutinize the barriers affecting the utilization of quality tools and techniques (QT&T) in manufacturing organizations. For this purpose, twelve barriers af-fecting the execution of QT&T in manufacturing organizations have been identified from literature analysis and experts’ opinion (academicians and industrial). Questionnaire-based survey has been utilized for the validation of identified barriers. Afterwards, an integrated model of QT&T has been developed by using interpretive structural Modelling (ISM) and Matriced Impacts Croisés Multi-plication Appliquée á un Classement (MICMAC) approach. This research gives an apparent depic-tion to identify and handle the barriers by computing the effectiveness of each barrier. Barriers like accessibility of time and space, inability to change organizational culture and inadequate coordina-tion and teamwork are found to be the key barriers for utilization of QT&T in manufacturing organ-ization. The developed model will help the manufacturing organizations effectively utilize QT&T.

We present new records of the Indian Sand Snake Psammophis condanarus from southern India, where its existence has remained doubtful till date. Our records are based on both live and preserved voucher specimens that are illustrated and described here. We furnish distribution records of this species from two sites belonging to two different ecoregions in southern India—Tirupati in the Eastern Ghats and Hospete in the Deccan plateau. Our work highlights the obscurity of certain, large-growing, diurnal land snakes that have as yet managed to evade the attention of field biologists largely due to a lack of field surveys in certain ecoregions.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different denture cleansers on the color stability, surface hardness, and roughness of different denture base resins. Materials and Methods: Three denture base resin materials (conventional heat cure resin, high impact resin, and polyamide denture base resin) were immersed for 180 days in commercially available two denture cleansers (sodium perborate and sodium hypochlorite). Color, surface roughness, and hardness were measured for each sample before and after immersion procedure. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc honestly significant difference test were used to evaluate color, surface roughness, and hardness data before and after immersion in denture cleanser (α =0.05). Results: All denture base resins tested exhibited a change in color, surface roughness, and hardness to some degree in both denture cleansers. Polyamides resin immersed in sodium perborate showed a maximum change in color after immersion for 180 days. Conventional heat cure resin immersed in sodium hypochlorite showed a maximum change in surface roughness and conventional heat cure immersed in sodium perborate showed a maximum change in hardness. Conclusion: Color changes of all denture base resins were within the clinically accepted range for color difference. Surface roughness change of conventional heat cure resin was not within the clinically accepted range of surface roughness. The choice of denture cleanser for different denture base resins should be based on the chemistry of resin and cleanser, denture cleanser concentration, and duration of immersion.

Purpose: To compare Endothelial cell(EC) loss following Phacoemulsification (PKE) in pupils of different sizes. Methods: A prospective double masked observational study in which a total of 150 eyes of 150 patients between 50 & 70 years of age with senile cataract of nuclear sclerosis grade II were enrolled. Patients were allocated into three groups of 50 eyes each in Group A (pupil size 7 mm). Pupillary size was measured by determining the height of slit on slit-lamp biomicroscope examination. PKE was done by the same expert surgeon using vertical chop technique and a foldable intraocular lens was implanted in the capsular bag. Corneal EC count and pachymetry were performed twice and average of 2 readings was taken for the purpose of this study. Measurements were taken preoperatively and postoperatively on day 1, day 7 and day 30. Results: The mean EC count loss on postoperative day 1 in Group A was 19.45%, Group B 14.89%, Group C 10.19% with statistical significant difference between Group A and Group B, as also Group A and Group C. The difference was not significant between Group B and Group C, though there was a fall in EC count in Group C as well. Increase in corneal thickness on postoperative day 1 in group A was 5.43%, Group B 3.55%, Group C 2.14% with statistical significant difference between Group A and Group B, as also Group A and Group C with no difference in Group B and Group C. Conclusion: PKE done in eyes with maximal pupillary dilatation of 5 mm at the end of one month.

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major public health problem in developing countries. Approximately 10% of patients with extrapulmonary TB have skeletal involvement. The spine is the most commonly affected skeletal site. The neurologic manifestations of spinal TB are most often secondary to bone involvement but can also be due to neural and perineural tissues involvement. TB may involve any level from the cervical to lumbosacral region. Extradural tubercular granuloma without vertebral involvement is uncommon. The authors reported an uncommon case of isolated intraspinal extradural TB lesion without osseous involvement of the thoracic spine in an adult man. Surgical intervention along with chemotherapy is one of the preferred treatments for intraspinal extradural tubercular lesion.

Respiratory complex I performs the reduction of quinone (Q) to quinol (QH2) and pumps protons across the membrane. Structural data on complex I have provided spectacular insights into the electron and proton transfer paths, as well as into the long (~30 Å) and unique substrate binding channel. However, due to missing structural information on Q binding modes, it remains unclear how Q reduction drives long range (~20 nm) redox-coupled proton pumping in complex I. Here we applied multiscale computational approaches to study the dynamics and redox chemistry of Q and QH2. Based on tens of microseconds of atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of bacterial and mitochondrial complex I, we find that the dynamics of Q is remarkably rapid and it diffuses from the N2 binding site to another stable site near the entrance of the Q channel in microseconds. Analysis of simulation trajectories also reveal the presence of yet another Q binding site 25–30 Å from the N2 center, which is in remarkable agreement with the electron density observed in recent cryo electron microscopy structure of complex I from Yarrowia lipolytica. Quantum chemical computations on the two Q binding sites closer to the entrance of the Q tunnel reveal redox-coupled protonation reactions that may be important in driving the proton pump of complex I.

Auditory-motor entrainment using rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) has been shown to improve motor control in healthy persons and persons with neurologic motor disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and stroke. Neuroimaging studies have shown the modulation of corticostriatal activity in response to RAS. However, the underlying neurochemical mechanisms for auditory-motor entrainment are unknown. The current study aimed to investigate RAS-induced dopamine (DA) responses in basal ganglia (BG) during finger tapping tasks combined with [11C]-(+)-PHNO-PET in eight right-handed young healthy participants. Each participant underwent two PET scans with and without RAS. Binding potential relative to the non-displaceable compartment (BPND) values were derived using the simplified reference tissue method. The task performance was measured using absolute tapping period error and its standard deviation. We found that the presence of RAS significantly improved the task performance compared to the absence of RAS, demonstrated by reductions in the absolute tapping period error (p = 0.007) and its variability (p = 0.006). We also found that (1) the presence of RAS reduced the BG BPND variability (p = 0.013) and (2) the absence of RAS resulted in a greater DA response in the left ventral striatum (VS) compared to the presence of RAS (p = 0.003), These suggest that the absence of external cueing may require more DA response in the left VS associated with more motivational and sustained attentional efforts to perform the task. Additionally, we demonstrated significant age effects on D2/3 R availability in BG: increasing age was associated with reduced D2/3 R availability in the left putamen without RAS (p = 0.026) as well as in the right VS with RAS (p = 0.02). This is the first study to demonstrate the relationships among RAS, DA response/D2/3 R availability, motor responses and age, providing the groundwork for future studies to explore mechanisms for auditory-motor entrainment in healthy elderly and patients with dopamine-based movement disorders.

The regional-scale estimation of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) over a heterogeneous surface is an important tool for the decision-makers in managing and allocating water resources. This is especially critical in the arid to semi-arid regions that require supplemental water due to insufficient precipitation, soil moisture, or groundwater. Over the years, various remote sensing-based surface energy balance (SEB) models have been developed to accurately estimate ETc over a regional scale. However, it is important to carry out the SEB model assessment for a particular geographical setting to ensure the suitability of a model. Thus, in this study, four commonly used and contrasting remote sensing models viz. METRIC (mapping evapotranspiration at high resolution with internalized calibration), SEBAL (surface energy balance algorithm for land), S-SEBI (simplified surface energy balance index), and SEBS (surface energy balance system) were compared and used to quantify and map the spatio-temporal variation of ETc in the semi-arid to arid inter-mountain region of Big Horn Basin, Wyoming (Landsat Path/Row: 37/29). Model estimates from 19 cloud-free Landsat 7 and 8 images were compared with the Bowen ratio energy balance system (BREBS) flux stationed in a center pivot irrigated field during 2017 (sugar beet), 2018 (dry bean), and 2019 (barley) growing seasons. The results indicated that all SEB models are effective in capturing the variation of ETc with R2 ranging in between 0.06 to 0.95 and RMSD between 0.07 to 0.15 mm h−1. Pooled data over three vegetative surfaces for three years under irrigated conditions revealed that METRIC (NSE = 0.9) performed better across all land cover types, followed by SEBS (NSE = 0.76), S-SEBI (NSE = 0.73), and SEBAL (NSE = 0.65). In general, all SEB models substantially overestimated ETc and underestimated sensible heat (H) fluxes under dry conditions when only crop residue was available at the surface. A mid-season density plot and absolute difference maps at image scale between the models showed that models involving METRIC, SEBAL, and S-SEBI are close in their estimates of daily crop evapotranspiration (ET24) with pixel-wise RMSD ranged from 0.54 to 0.76 mm d−1 and an average absolute difference across the study area ranged from 0.47 to 0.56 mm d−1. Likewise, all the SEB models underestimated the seasonal ETc, except SEBS.

Facial micro expressions are brief, spontaneous, and crucial emotions deep inside the mind, reflecting the actual thoughts for that moment. Humans can cover their emotions on a large scale, but their actual intentions and emotions can be extracted at a micro-level. Micro expressions are organic when compared with macro expressions, posing a challenge to both humans, as well as machines, to identify. In recent years, detection of facial expressions are widely used in commercial complexes, hotels, restaurants, psychology, security, offices, and education institutes. The aim and motivation of this paper are to provide an end-to-end architecture that accurately detects the actual expressions at the micro-scale features. However, the main research is to provide an analysis of the specific parts that are crucial for detecting the micro expressions from a face. Many states of the art approaches have been trained on the micro facial expressions and compared with our proposed Lossless Attention Residual Network (LARNet) approach. However, the main research on this is to provide analysis on the specific parts that are crucial for detecting the micro expressions from a face. Many CNN-based approaches extracts the features at local level which digs much deeper into the face pixels. However, the spatial and temporal information extracted from the face is encoded in LARNet for a feature fusion extraction on specific crucial locations, such as nose, cheeks, mouth, and eyes regions. LARNet outperforms the state-of-the-art methods with a slight margin by accurately detecting facial micro expressions in real-time. Lastly, the proposed LARNet becomes accurate and better by training with more annotated data.

Crop evapotranspiration (ETc) estimates, on a regional scale, hold enormous potential in managing surface and groundwater resources. This is particularly important for the headwater state of Wyoming, which provides water to found major river basins of the US. In this study, METRIC (Mapping evapotranspiration at high resolution with internalized calibration), a satellite-based image processing model, was used to map and quantify daily, monthly, and seasonal ETc and other energy balance fluxes, i.e., net radiation (Rn), sensible heat (H), and soil heat flux (G) dynamics for different land-use classes. Monthly and seasonal ETc estimated were further used to approximate regional water consumption patterns for different land-use types for nine irrigation districts in semi-arid to arid intermountain region of Big Horn Basin (BHB), Wyoming. The validation of METRIC retrievals against Bowen ratio energy balance system (BREBS) fluxes measured over three vegetative surfaces, viz. sugar beet in 2017, dry bean in 2018, and barley in 2019, indicated high accuracy. The pooled correlation observed between estimated (pooled) and measured instantaneous fluxes had R2 values of 0.91 (RMSE = 0.08 mm h−1, NSE = 0.91), 0.81 (RMSE = 49.6 Wm−2, NSE = 0.67), 0.53 (RMSE = 27.1 Wm−2, NSE = 0.53), and 0.86 (RMSE = 59.2 Wm−2, NSE = 0.84) for ETc, Rn, G, and H, respectively. The biggest discrepancy between measured and estimated monthly ETc values was observed during times when BREBS flux tower footprint was devoid of any crops or the crops at footprint were not actively transpiring. Validation results improved when comparisons were made on monthly scales with METRIC underestimating growing season ETc in the range between 3.2% to 6.0%. Seasonal ETc by land-use type showed significant variation over the study area where crop ETc was 52% higher than natural vegetation ETc. Furthermore, it was found that, in the arid to semi-arid intermountain region of Wyoming, the contribution of irrigation to total seasonal ETc varied in the range of 73–81% in nine irrigation districts that fall within the study area. The high relative contribution of irrigation highlights the importance of identifying and quantifying ETc for improved management in irrigation system design and water allocation.

Aim: The present study was conducted to detect the presence of canine parvovirus (CPV) among diarrheic dogs in Himachal Pradesh and to identify the most prevalent antigenic variant of CPV based on molecular typing and sequence analysis of VP2 gene. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 fecal samples were collected from clinical cases of diarrhea or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis from CPV vaccinated or non-vaccinated dogs. Samples were tested using CPV-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting VP2 gene, multiplex PCR for detection of CPV-2a and CPV-2b antigenic variants, and a PCR for the detection of CPV-2c. CPV-2b isolate was cultured on Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell lines and sequenced using VP2 structural protein gene. Multiple alignment and phylogenetic analysis was done using ClustalW and MEGA6 and inferred using the Neighbor-Joining method. Results: No sample was found positive for the original CPV strain usually present in the vaccine. However, about 50% (52 out of 102) of the samples were found to be positive with CPV-2ab PCR assay that detects newer variants of CPV circulating in the field. In addition, multiplex PCR assay that identifies both CPV-2ab and CPV-2b revealed that CPV-2b was the major antigenic variant present in the affected dogs. A PCR positive isolate of CPV-2b was adapted to grow in MDCK cells and produced characteristic cytopathic effect after 5th passage. Multiple sequence alignment of VP2 structural gene of CPV-2b isolate (Accession number HG004610) used in the study was found to be similar to other sequenced isolates in NCBI sequence database and showed 98-99% homology. Conclusion: This study reports the first detection of CPV-2b in dogs with hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in Himachal Pradesh and absence of other antigenic types of CPV. Further, CPV-specific PCR assay can be used for rapid confirmation of circulating virus strains under field conditions.

Wistar rats fed with partially hydrolysed psyllium husk (PHPH) supplemented yoghurt for 60 days showed a significant (P

Introduction: Health is dynamic and multifactorial in nature. Oral health is an integral part of general health. Health personnel, especially in primary health centers (PHCs), can play an important role in grooming health in their patients. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the oral health status of health personnel of PHCs. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 520 health personnel working in PHCs of Mathura district in the month of September-October 2014. The WHO Oral Health Assessment Form (2013) was used to collect data from each subject. Comparison of oral health status of various health personnel was also done. Results: In the present study, 45 (8.7%) belonged to the upper socioeconomic class, 295 (56.7%) were from upper-middle socioeconomic class, and 180 (34.6%) were from lower-middle socioeconomic class. The mean decayed missing filled teeth was 1.11 ± 2.63 for doctors, 1.24 ± 3.10 for pharmacists, 1.10 ± 3.55 for lab technicians, 1.78 ± 3.80 for ward boys/ward nurses, 0.25 ± 0.50 for lady health visitors, and 1.53 ± 3.16 for auxiliary nurse midwives. The difference among study subjects according to occupation was statistically significant (P = 0.787). Conclusion: The oral health status of health personnel of Mathura district was moderate. These health workers can serve as a valuable resource for population-based health promotion approaches in achieving health for all.

A tooth with blunderbuss canal and open apex can be an endodontic challenge because of difficulty in obtaining an apical seal, and existing thin radicular walls which are susceptible to fracture. To overcome the limitations of traditional long-term calcium hydroxide apexification procedures, nonsurgical one step apexification using an array of materials such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) has been suggested. However, adequate compaction of MTA in teeth with wide open apices can be an arduous task, and an internal matrix is required for controlled placement of MTA against which obturating material can be condensed. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), a second generation platelet concentrate containing several growth factors that promotes hard and soft-tissue healing, has been used as an internal matrix to create an apical plug of MTA and hence prevent extrusion of filling materials. This case series presents the endodontic management of immature permanent teeth with open apices using internal matrix of autologous PRF membrane and one step apical barrier placement of MTA.

Purpose: This prospective study aimed to investigate the epidemiologic parameters of supracondylar humeral fractures in children admitted to a teaching institution of a developing country primarily catering to rural population, to find any preventable cause of such injuries. Methods: All suspected cases of supracondylar humeral fracture reporting to emergency or outpatients department were analysed for various epidemiologic parameters including age, sex, laterality, time of presentation, associated injuries, neurovascular complications and classification over a period of four years. Results: We analysed a total of 263 patients and most of the fractures were seen in 5–8-year age group with a mean of 7.9 years. A total of 157 cases were males and non-dominant extremity was involved in 65% of fractures in our series. Fall on outstretched hand was the predominant cause of injury and fall from rooftop was the predominant mode. In all patients, 36.12% reported to our hospital 1 week after injury, 39.92% presented to hospital within 48 h after trauma and the remaining 23.95% presented 48 h to 1 week after trauma. None had a bilateral injury. Gartland type 3 fractures constituted 54.37% of patients, followed by type 1 (23.95%) and type 2 (21.67%). Conclusion: Almost one fourth of supracondylar humeral fractures in children can be prevented by installing railing of rooftops and stairs. It is necessary to educate people on hazards of treatment by traditional bonesetters. Moreover, the children with supracondylar humeral fractures should be screened for associated injuries.

Polyura agrarius (Swinhoe, 1887), known as the Anomalous Nawab, is a wide-ranging but localized and rare species in India; there are only a handful records from central India. The only specimen-based record of this species from Madhya Pradesh, India is by Charles Swinhoe in 1886, which is the basis of its original description. This paper reports a new locality record for Polyura agrarius from Jabalpur, central India along with a review of earlier records from the region.

In recent years, photovoltaic (PV) systems have emerged as economical solutions for irrigation systems in rural areas. However, they are characterized by low voltage output and less reliable configurations. To address this issue in this paper, a promising inverter configuration called Impedance (Z)-source inverter (ZSI) is designed and implemented to obtain high voltage output with single-stage power conversion, particularly suitable for irrigation application. An improved and efficient modulation scheme and design specifications of the network parameters are derived. Additionally, a suitable fault-tolerant strategy is developed and implemented to improve reliability and efficiency. It incorporates an additional redundant leg with an improved control strategy to facilitate the fault-tolerant operation. The proposed fault-tolerant circuit is designed to handle switch failures of the inverter modules due to the open-circuit and short-circuit faults. The relevant simulation and experimental results under normal, faulty and post-fault operation are presented. The post-fault operation characteristics are identical to the normal operation. The motor performance characteristics such as load current, torque, harmonic spectrum, and efficiency are thoroughly analysed to prove the suitability of the proposed system for irrigation applications. This study provides an efficient and economical solution for rural irrigation utilized in developing countries, for example, India.

The soiling of solar panels from dry deposition affects the overall efficiency of power output from solar power plants. This study focuses on the detection and monitoring of sand deposition (wind-blown dust) on photovoltaic (PV) solar panels in arid regions using multitemporal remote sensing data. The study area is located in Bhadla solar park of Rajasthan, India which receives numerous sandstorms every year, carried by westerly and north-westerly winds. This study aims to use Google Earth Engine (GEE) in monitoring the soiling phenomenon on PV panels. Optical imageries archived in the GEE platform were processed for the generation of various sand indices such as the normalized differential sand index (NDSI), the ratio normalized differential soil index (RNDSI), and the dry bare soil index (DBSI). Land surface temperature (LST) derived from Landsat 8 thermal bands were also used to correlate with sand indices and to observe the pattern of sand accumulation in the target region. Additionally, high-resolution PlanetScope images were used to quantitatively validate the sand indices. Our study suggests that the use of freely available satellite data with semiautomated processing on GEE can be a useful alternative to manual methods. The developed method can provide near real-time monitoring of soiling on PV panels cost-effectively. This study concludes that the DBSI method has a comparatively higher potential (89.6% Accuracy, 0.77 Kappa) in the detection of sand deposition on PV panels as compared to other indices. The findings of this study can be useful to solar energy companies in the development of an operational plan for the cleaning of PV panels regularly.

Introduction: The transsphenoidal route for pituitary surgery is considered the standard treatment for pituitary adenomas. The disadvantage of the smaller exposure of this route is partially compensated for by the introduction of the microscope with its coaxial illumination, stereoscopic view, adequate magnification, and microsurgical instruments. However, there are only few reports about the outcome of endonasal endoscopic transphenoidal technique. Aims & Objectives: Current study has been conducted to compare the efficacy, advantages and dis advantages of endoscopic versus navigation guided microscopic transsphenoidal Pituitary surgery. Material and methods: A controlled study was done in the department of neurosurgery, at tertiary care hospital in India, from the period of August 2012 to December 2017 prospectively. In Group A- 30 patients in whom endoscopic transnasal trans Sphenoidal pituitary surgery and in Group B - 30 patients, intraoperative neuronavigation was used. Observations and Results: Both the groups were similar in demographic variables. The most common age group of pituitary tumor patients was 30-40 years. Fourteen (46.6 %) patients in group A and fifteen (50 %) of the patients in group B had tumor volume less than 5 ml. In group A, thirteen (43%) patients had intrasellar tumors with no suprasellar extension, while in group B, fifteen (50%) patients had intrasellar tumors with no extension. Operative time was noted from incision to closure and average time taken in both the groups was compared. Twenty five (83%) cases of group A took between 2-3 hours and only four cases (13%) took more than 3 hours. While in group B, twenty (66%) cases took between 4-5 hours. This shows a significant difference by fisher extact test (p

Total knee arthroplasty is mostly done to relieve pain and disability from a severe and degenerated knee. Deformities in the coronal and sagittal plane could be corrected with the help of cuts made in tibia and femur during total knee replacement as well as with ligament release. However, large deformities in the lower extremity particularly in the diaphysis region need correction prior to the total knee replacement. It helps to limit the amount of bone that will be cut and helps the ligament release. Several extra articular and intra-articular methods for the correction of diaphyseal deformity have been described. We present the case of clamshell osteotomy for the correction of diaphyseal deformity in the tibia and a total knee replacement after the osteotomy site healed.

Abstract A brain abscess is a focal, intracerebral infection that begins as a localized area of cerebritis and develops into a collection of pus surrounded by a well-vascularized capsule. The incidence of brain abscess varies from 1 to 2% of all intracranial space occupying lesions in developed countries to 8% in the developing countries. We reported a case of an 8-year-old girl who presented with gas-forming intracerebral abscess with parafalcine subdural empyema as a complication of bilateral chronic suppurative otitis media with coalescent mastoiditis and reviewed the literature.

Double extradural hematomas (DEDH) comprise 2-10% of all extradural hematomas (EDH). The ipsilateral occurrence of more than one EDH is quite uncommon. We are reporting a case of ipsilateral DEDH in a 10-year-old child following a head injury. Though DEDH is extremely lethal and a rare diagnosis, ipsilateral DEDH is still uncommon. Furthermore, the occurrence of EDH in the pediatric age group is quite unusual. As compared to single EDHs, DEDH should be considered more urgently for neurosurgical intervention.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in regulating diverse biological processes including DNA damage and repair. We have recently reported that the DNA damage inducible lncRNA DNA damage-sensitive RNA1 (DDSR1) regulates DNA repair by homologous recombination (HR). Since lncRNAs also modulate gene expression, we identified gene expression changes upon DDSR1 knockdown in human fibroblast cells. Gene expression analysis after RNAi treatment targeted against DDSR1 revealed 119 genes that show differential expression. Here we provide a detailed description of the microarray data (NCBI GEO accession number GSE67048) and the data analysis procedure associated with the publication by Sharma et al., 2015 in EMBO Reports [1].

Genome-wide studies of transcripts expression help in systematic monitoring of genes and allow targeting of candidate genes for future research. In contrast to relatively stable genomic data, the expression of genes is dynamic and regulated both at time and space level at different level in. The variation in the rate of translation is specific for each protein. Both the inherent nature of an mRNA molecule to be translated and the external environmental stimuli can affect the efficiency of the translation process. In biocontrol agents (BCAs), the molecular response at translational level may represents noise-like response of absolute transcript level and an adaptive response to physiological and pathological situations representing subset of mRNAs population actively translated in a cell. The molecular responses of biocontrol are complex and involve multistage regulation of number of genes. The use of high-throughput techniques has led to rapid increase in volume of transcriptomics data of Trichoderma. In general, almost half of the variations of transcriptome and protein level are due to translational control. Thus, studies are required to integrate raw information from different “omics” approaches for accurate depiction of translational response of BCAs in interaction with plants and plant pathogens. The studies on translational status of only active mRNAs bridging with proteome data will help in accurate characterization of only a subset of mRNAs actively engaged in translation. This review highlights the associated bottlenecks and use of state-of-the-art procedures in addressing the gap to accelerate future accomplishment of biocontrol mechanisms.

Biomaterials play a crucial role in the field of tissue engineering. They are utilized for fabricating frameworks known as scaffolds, matrices or constructs which are interconnected porous structures that establish a cellular microenvironment required for optimal tissue regeneration. Several natural and synthetic biomaterials have been utilized for fabrication of tissue engineering scaffolds. Amongst different biomaterials, polymers are the most extensively experimented and employed materials. They can be tailored to provide good interconnected porosity, large surface area, adequate mechanical strengths, varying surface characterization and different geometries required for tissue regeneration. A single type of material may however not meet all the requirements. Selection of two or more biomaterials, optimization of their physical, chemical and mechanical properties and advanced fabrication techniques are required to obtain scaffold designs intended for their final application. Current focus is aimed at designing biomaterials such that they will replicate the local extra cellular environment of the native organ and enable cell-cell and cell-scaffold interactions at micro level required for functional tissue regeneration. This article provides an insight into the different biomaterials available and the emerging use of nano engineering principles for the construction of bioactive scaffolds in tooth regeneration.

Somatic cells can be reprogrammed to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using oncogenic transcription factors. However, this method leads to genetic aberrations in iPSCs via unknown mechanisms, which may limit their clinical use. Here, we demonstrate that the supplementation of growth media with antioxidants reduces the genome instability of cells transduced with the reprogramming factors. Antioxidant supplementation did not affect transgene expression level or silencing kinetics. Importantly, iPSCs made with antioxidants had significantly fewer de novo copy number variations, but not fewer coding point mutations, than iPSCs made without antioxidants. Our results suggest that the quality and safety of human iPSCs might be enhanced by using antioxidants in the growth media during the generation and maintenance of iPSCs.

Active case finding (ACF) for tuberculosis (TB) was implemented in 60 selected high TB burden wards of Kolkata, India. Community volunteers called TOUCH (Targeted Outreach for Upliftment of Community Health) agents (TAs) identified and referred presumptive TB patients (PTBPs) to health facilities for TB diagnosis and treatment. We aimed to describe the “care cascade” of PTBPs that were identified during July to December 2018 and to explore the reasons for attrition as perceived by TAs and PTBPs. An explanatory mixed-methods study with a quantitative phase of cohort study using routinely collected data followed by descriptive qualitative study with in-depth interviews was conducted. Of the 3,86242 individuals that were enumerated, 1132 (0.3%) PTBPs were identified. Only 713 (63.0%) PTBPs visited a referred facility for TB diagnosis. TB was diagnosed in 177 (24.8%). The number needed to screen for one TB patient was 2183 individuals. The potential reasons for low yield were stigma and apprehension about TB, distrust about TA, wage losses for attending health facilities, and substance abuse among PTBPs. The yield of ACF was suboptimal with low PTBP identification rate and a high attrition rate. Interviewing each individual for symptoms of TB and supporting PTBPs for diagnosis through sputum collection and transport can be adopted to improve the yield.

Background: Thyroid hormone is a key substance in normal homeostasis, having variable influence on cell metabolism on different organs. Hypothyroidism is common, potentially serious, often clinically overlooked, readily diagnosed by laboratory testing, and eminently treatable. Aim: This study was conducted with the aim of finding the effect of regular physical exercise of medium-intensity on thyroid function in patients already undergoing treatment for hypothyroidism. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 ambulatory treated hypothyroid patients were included in the study. Serum samples were collected and evaluated for triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) both before and after 3 months of daily 1 h physical exercise, from those patients doing exercise and from those who did not do any physical exercise. T-test was used to find a significant difference between the two groups. Results: Serum TSH was found to be significantly decreased in patients of regular exercise group postinterventionally (P < 0.001) when compared with nonexercise group (P = 0.43). Serum T3 and T4 were also found to be significantly raised in regular exercise group postinterventionally (P = 0.007 and P < 0.001 respectively) but not in nonexercise group (P = 0.92 and P = 0.73 respectively). On inter group comparison significant decrease in TSH was found in regular exercise group (P = 0.002) and significant increase was found in levels of T3 (P = 0.002) and T4 (P = 0.001) in regular exercise group. Mean weight was also found to be decreased in regular exercise group postinterventionally. Conclusion: Every hypothyroid patient should do regular physical exercise along with thyroxine replacement to improve thyroid function.

The main objective of the study was to develop an alternative low-cost pearl millet-based weaning food followed by the fortification with iron and vitamin A (retinol acetate). The product was formulated as per the guidelines of Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2010 and prepared by using extruded pearl millet flour, extruded wheat flour, skim milk powder, whey protein concentrate-70 and sucrose in the ratio of 35, 25, 15, 5 and 20%, respectively. Electrolytic iron and vitamin A acetate were fortified at the level of 12mg/100g and 360 µg/100g of the product to meet 100 and 98.25% of the RDA for iron and vitamin A, respectively. The developed weaning food was analyzed for proximate composition and physicochemical properties. The average moisture content was 3.73±0.02% and average protein, fat, carbohydrate, ash and crude fiber content (on dry weight basis) was 15.32±0.06, 1.96±0.07, 79.58±0.06, 2.02±0.02 and 1.12±0.10%, respectively. The iron, vitamin A and ß-Carotene content were found to be 15mg, 393µg and 30.62µg per 100g of the product, respectively. Physical properties namely flow-ability, water absorption index, water solubility index were analyzed and values were observed to be 33.80±0.27, 9.28±0.17, 9.12±0.35%, respectively. The lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*) values of color for the developed product were 77.87±0.26, 2.15±0.12 and 17.43±0.08, respectively. Overall, it can be concluded that the well- developed product could serve as a potential delivery system of iron and vitamin A and could be an effective tool to deal with the micronutrients deficiency in infants.

The flow of fluid in atmosphere and ocean is governed by rotating stratified Boussinesq equations. Through the literature, we found that many researchers are trying to find the solutions of rotating stratified Boussinesq equations. In this paper, we have obtained special exact solutions and nonlinear plane waves. Finally, we provide exact solutions to rotating stratified Boussinesq equations with large scale motion superimposed with the nonlinear plane waves. In support of our investigations, we provided two examples: one described the special exact solution and in second example, we have determined the special exact solution superimposed with nonlinear plane wave. Also, we depicted some integral curves that represent the flow of an incompressible fluid particle on the plane x1+x2=L(constant) as the particular case.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of various processing treatments (individual and combination) on iron, β-carotene, phytic acid, polyphenols and ash content of pearl millet (Pennisetum americanam). Grains were subjected to soaking, pressure cooking, steaming, malting, pearling and extrusion cooking for different time intervals such as soaking for 3, 6, 9 and 12 h; steaming for 5, 10, 15 and 20 min; pressure cooking for 2, 5, 7 and 10 min; controlled germination (malting) for 12, 18, 24, 36, 40, 46 and 52 h along with three combinations of treatments. Data revealed that phytic acid was reduced maximum (38.23%) by malting, whereas polyphenols (49.28%) and ash content (22.09%) were decreased maximum by pressure cooking. Loss of β-carotene and iron was also higher (29.79, and 16.03%, respectively) during pressure cooking in comparison to other processing methods. However, combined treatments showed higher retention of β-carotene and iron with more reduction of anti-nutrients over the individual treatments. Overall, it can be concluded that combination of domestic treatments is a better approach in improving the nutritional profile of pearl millet, which can be consumed directly or as one of the ingredients for formulations like weaning foods, bakery products, etc.

Aim: The aim was to evaluate the effect of different cavity disinfectants on dentin bond strengths of composite resin applied with two different adhesive systems. Materials and Methods: Two-hundred mandibular molars were sectioned parallel to the occlusal surface to expose dentin in the midcoronal one-third. The dentinal surfaces were polished with waterproof-polishing papers. The specimens were randomly divided into five groups of 40 teeth each as follows: group 1(control) -- specimens were not treated with any cavity disinfectants. Groups 2--5 (experimental groups) -- dentin surfaces were treated with the following cavity disinfectants, respectively; 2% chlorhexidine solution, 0.1% benzalkonium chloride-based disinfectant, 1% chlorhexidine gel, and an iodine potassium iodide/copper sulfate-based disinfectant. The specimens were then randomly divided into two subgroups including 20 teeth each to evaluate the effect of different bonding systems. Dentin bonding systems were applied to the dentin surfaces and the composite buildups were done. After the specimens were stored in an incubator for 24 hours, the shear bond strength was measured at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The specimens were then statistically analyzed. Statistical Analysis Used: One way analysis of variance and Tukey-HSD tests were used. Results: There was no significant difference between chlorhexidine gel and control groups regardless of the type of the bonding agent used (P>0.05). On the other hand, pretreatment with benzalkonium chloride-based, iodine potassium iodide/copper sulfate-based disinfectants or chlorhexidine solutions had a negative effect on the shear bond strength of self-etching bonding systems. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that when benzalkonium chloride-based, iodine potassium iodide/copper sulfate-based disinfectants or chlorhexidine solutions are used as a cavity disinfectant, an etch-and-rinse bonding system should be preferred.