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Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) produces fruits with varying orientation and number at each node. They are considered as fruiting habit traits in chilli. Farmer, producer and consumer preference for fruiting habit traits varies from region to region. For increased acceptability by farmers and consumers, high yielding cultivars should be bred with preferred fruiting habit traits. An investigation was carried out to study the influence of fruiting habit traits on fruit yield and its components in chilli at Bengaluru, India. The F2 individuals derived from crosses involving parents differing for single or both fruiting habit traits were grouped into fruiting habit classes. The means of fruiting habit classes in F2 populations were compared and statistically tested. The non-significant mean differences of fruiting habit classes for fruit yield and its components indicated lack of influence of fruiting habit traits on fruit yield and its components.

The experiment comprised of six F1’s, which were selected based on the combinations of low yield × high yield and low ASI × high ASI. The selected six F1’s were crossed in full diallel mating design to synthesise 16 double crosses was estimated and validated on the basis of performance of their constituent single crosses. Out of 16 hybrids, DCH 15 recorded lower tasseling and silking days and hence it can be used further in breeding programme. While, DCH 13 recorded narrow mean for ASI are suggested for use in deriving superior inbred lines with a combination of narrow ASI and higher ear circumference and kernel rows ear-1.The expected yield performance of DCH 5 (125.88), DCH 8 (124.23), DCH 10 (123.96), DCH 15 (123.73), DCH 6 (122.77) and DCH 12 (120.76) out yielded best check, Hema (119.00) for grain yield plant-1respectively. DCH 12 predicted better for most of the characters viz., ASI, ear length, ear circumference, kernel rows-1 and 100 grain weight. While, DCH 15 predicted better for characters viz., days to tasseling, days to silking, plant height (cm), ear height (cm), kernels row-1 and shelling percentage. Therefore, these two crosses may be used as double cross hybrids for breeding programme. In both prediction methods, nearly 14 out of 16 double cross hybrids manifested significant differences between realised and predicted performance suggesting involvement of epistasis in genetic control of grain yield plant-1.

Finger millet (Elucine coracana L. Gaertn), is one of the most important cereals in the sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia. Finger millet in India is grown in a wide range of agro-climatic zones which are highly variable resulting in complex genotype (G) × environment (E) interactions (I). Significant GEI challenge the breeders to identify genotypes suitable for a wide range of environments/specific environments. Twelve selected recombinant inbred lines (RILs) along with four checks were evaluated to characterize genotype × location interaction (GLI) and identify those that are widely/specifically adapted. The AMMI ANOVA showed significant mean squares due to genotype, location and GLI for days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, finger length and grain yield plant-1. Near perfect fit of interaction principal component (IPC)1 and IPC2 to the total GLI variation for most of the traits suggested a good approximation of the bi-plot with respect to the patterns of GLI and good predictability of RIL performance across four locations. The RILs such as RIL-3, RIL-104, RIL-143, RIL-183 and RIL-303 were found widely adapted. The RILs such as RIL-104, RIL-94, RIL-185 and RIL-302 were found specifically adapted to GKVK, Bengaluru and RIL-143 to Mandya for grain yield plant-1.

Fifteen indigenous genotypes of oriental pickling melon were planted in randomized block design during August, 2008 and were assessed to know the nature and magnitude of variability and genetic divergence for fifteen quantitative traits. High values of genotypic coefficient of variance along with high heritability and genetic advance were recorded for first female flowering node, number of fruits per vine, average fruit weight, fruit flesh thickness, fruit cavity size and total yield per vine. Hence, these characters should be given more emphasis while making selection for high yielding genotypes. On the basis of genetic divergence, the fifteen genotypes were grouped into five clusters irrespective of geographical diversity. Cluster II topped in having eight genotypes while the clusters IV and V were solitary. Total fruit yield per vine (66.67 %) contributed maximum towards the total diversity followed by fruit cavity size (21.90%), fruit flesh thickness (3.81%), fruit dry weight (3.81%) and first female flowering node (1.9%). The maximum inter cluster D2 value (1720) was observed between clusters V and IV indicating greater diversity among the genotypes and availability of better parents for developing novel hybrids. CMC GKVK 10 can be utilized in breeding programmes to transfer most of the desirable traits.

Abstract In recent decades, a global shift in lifestyle and the ubiquitous consumption of junk foods have led to dysbiosis and other metabolic disorders significantly impacting human health. Recent studies performed on traditional foods have shown several health benefits and have gained the attention of the scientific community towards ethnic foods. In this regard, the consumption of ethnic foods with symbiotic properties is increasing gradually across the globe. Kefir is one such ethnic food with excellent functional properties. It is a unique traditional fermented drink comprised of kefir grains and probiotic microbes. Kefir grains are a gelatinous consortium of casein, milk solids coupled with yeasts, and lactobacilli-rich microbiota embedded in a poly-saccharide matrix. These components act as starters, initiating fermentation when introduced into fresh milk. This beverage bestows a myriad of symbiotic benefits, encompassing improved gut health and preventing several metabolic and other diseases through various biological mechanisms. Despite its millennia-long history, it has recently gained prominence due to emerging biotechnological and nutraceutical applications and researchers’ burgeoning fascination. In this comprehensive review, we endeavour to provide a meticulous elucidation of the most recent advancements concerning kefir, encompassing its production and processing methodologies for both dairy and water kefir. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate mechanisms underlying its functional properties and the health benefits of kefir as a functional fermented beverage.

Abstract The human gut is inhabited by approximately 100 trillion of microflora, and there exists a reciprocal relationship between human health and the gut microbiota. The major reasons for the dysbiosis in the population of gut microbiota are attributed to changes in lifestyle, medication, and the intake of junk foods. In addition, the proportion of beneficial bacteria in the intestine decreases gradually with age and causes physiological disturbances, malfunctions of the immune system, and several metabolic disorders. Thus, finding safe solutions to improve the diversity of microflora is a big challenge. With an increase in health consciousness among the population, the demand for healthy and nutraceutical food products is growing gradually. Recent research has proved that consumption of probiotics promotes gut health and prevents from several metabolic and other diseases. Hence, in this present review, we will discuss the various probiotic bacteria present in ethnic foods. The importance of these probiotics in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal, respiratory, cancer, and metabolic disorders will be elucidated. In addition, we will highlight the importance of the development of new-generation probiotics to cater the needs of the current market.

Introduction: A battered child is one who sustains repetitive physical injuries due to non-accidental violence inflicted by a parent or guardian. Child abuse encompasses behaviors exposing the child to various forms of physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or emotional misconduct. Typically, battered child syndrome is diagnosed through a disparity between the history provided by the child's caregivers and the findings of clinical examination. Case details: An 18-month-old girl child was admitted to a tertiary care hospital, presenting with a four-day history of fever, vomiting for two days and a seizure episode. The child had a history of head injury one week ago, resulting in transient unconsciousness. Upon examination, multiple healed and fresh injuries were observed on the face, hands, and right thigh. CT brain revealed hypodensity areas with a mildly displaced fracture of the left frontal bone. Fundus examination identified bilateral multiple intraretinal hemorrhages and papilledema. X-ray showed a fracture of the right proximal tibia. The child required ventilator support during the hospital stay, and subsequently, developed retinal blindness. The child was managed accordingly. Discussion: The classical feature of Battered Baby Syndrome is the discrepancy between the nature of injuries and the history provided, and the delay between the injury and medical attention. The parental risk factors for child abuse are poverty, social isolation, drug addiction, violent environment, family history of abuse, communication skills deficit and the child related risk factors are children with special needs, children with behavior problems, bonding deficit. etc. Conclusion: The current case sheds light on the unfortunate prevalence of this condition within the Indian context, urging point-of-care health providers to stay vigilant and informed about child abuse patterns in the community. It serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibility we all share in safeguarding the well-being of children.

Introduction: Lung cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. In addition to chemotherapy, immunotherapy has yielded favourable outcomes in advanced, surgically non resectable Non Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (NSCLC). The inhibition of immune checkpoints by monoclonal antibodies targeting Programmed Death 1 (PD-1) and Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays a pivotal role in preventing the downregulation of antitumour immunity. Aim: To study the expression of PD-L1 in NSCLC cases from core biopsy specimens and its association with histological types, grades of tumour along with clinicoradiological parameters (age, sex, smoking status, and radiological location of the tumour). Materials and Methods: This ambispective study was done in the Pathology Department of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, India, over two years from October 2020 to August 2022. The authors studied 35 cases of histopathologically and Immunohistochemically (IHC) diagnosed NSCLC. Partial or complete membranous staining of any intensity in ≥1% of tumour cells was considered positive in IHC. The Tumour Proportion Scoring (TPS) used for PD-L1 reporting was as follows: TPS

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the mandatory use of multiple surgical masks or N95 respirators in public raised concerns about potential health issues associated with the increased breathing force needed to maintain the breathing cycle. To address these concerns, we conducted a comprehensive study investigating the transportation and filtering mechanisms of heterogeneous nanoparticles and virus-like particles through surgical masks and N95 respirators. Our multifaceted approach combined in vitro experiments utilising aerosol spray paints containing nanoparticles and in vivo validation on human volunteer inhaling city air. We employed scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy to analyse the distribution of nanoparticles across various mask layers and pristine silicon substrates placed on human skin. In addition, we provide analytical insights into the pressure distribution and fluid velocity profiles within the complex polymer fibre network of the masks. Our findings remarkably revealed that both single surgical masks and N95 respirators exhibited similar nanofluidic performance in filtering colloidal and jet-stream nanoparticles in the air. These results have significant implications for policymakers in developing regulations to manage airborne pandemics and air pollution control, ultimately enhancing public health and safety during respiratory health crises.

Self compacting concrete is incorporated with a high amount of fines and chemical admixtures with a low w/c ratio, which leads to shrinkage and microcracks. Shrinkage in the concrete, along with the congested reinforcement, leads to a heavy number of cracks. To stop the damage due to these cracks, the self-healing property was developed in self-compacting concrete by incorporating self-healing materials like bacteria and calcium lactate into it. To optimise the self-healing materials, including the reference mix, 10 mixes are cast and tested for strength and healing properties. In those mixes, both bacteria and lactate are used by 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.8%, 1%, and 1.2% by weight of cement. The compressive strength, UPV, and rebound hammer tests are done on cubes with 100 mm sides. Split tensile strength and self-healing tests are done on cylinders with a 100 mm diameter and a 200 mm height. When a small amount of calcium lactate was used, the compressive strength of the concrete was higher compared to the reference mix. However, increasing the amount of calcium lactate resulted in a decrease in the strength of the concrete. Maximum healing and relatively good strength were found with 0.5% bacteria and 0.5% calcium lactate. FESEM-EDS and XRD results make it clear that the precipitation formed is in the form of rhombohedral calcite.

Introduction: The etiology of nonpuerperal mastitis is more diverse varying from infections to autoimmune disorders. Most of them are misdiagnosed as pyogenic mastitis and are treated with routine antibiotics. In this study the various causes of nonpuerperal mastitis which required surgical intervention were evaluated. It was observed that some of the pre-malignant and malignant conditions were also presented as nonpuerperal mastitis. Materials and methods: All non-lactating women who presented with symptoms and signs of mastitis and did not respond to single course of antibiotics (active against staphylococcus) treated in tertiary care Hospital and in private practice of primary author between June 2021 to December 2022 and in those in whom the ultrasound of breast was also suggestive of inflammatory breast disease were included in the study and rest were excluded from study. The final etiological diagnosis of these patients is given by the histopathological examination of tissue taken from the wall of abscess cavity or of breast mass. Results: Total 21 patients were included in the study of which 7 patients had nonspecific infection, 3 patients were diagnosed to have tuberculous mastitis, 3 patients with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis, 2 patients with periductal mastitis, 1 patient with fat necrosis, 3 patients with atypical ductal hyperplasia and 2 patients were diagnosed to have invasive duct cell carcinoma. Conclusion: The etiology of nonpuerperal mastitis is diverse. Not only the benign conditions but premalignant conditions like ADH, DCIS and even invasive carcinoma can present with clinical symptoms and signs of inflammatory breast disease.

CONTEXT: COVID-19 usually presents with mild symptoms. No cases of transfusion – transmission of COVID-19 had been reported. Assessing the prevalence of viral infections among blood donors is essential to frame blood safety strategies. AIM: The main aim of this study is to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among healthy and asymptomatic voluntary blood donors by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). SETTING AND DESIGN: This cross-sectional study was conducted among voluntary blood donors using a consecutive sampling technique in the Department of Transfusion Medicine, the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Guindy, Chennai, for 18 months. METHODS: Adhering to COVID-19 pandemic guidelines and donor eligibility criteria, blood samples collected from 500 asymptomatic unvaccinated voluntary blood donors were tested for SARS-CoV-2 (IgG + IgM + IgA and IgG) antibodies by ELISA. Adding IgA to a conventional IgM and IgG serological test improves sensitivity. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The collected donor data were analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics software. Pearson’s Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used. P = 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: IgG seropositivity among the donors was 58.8%, and IgM + IgA seropositivity was 29.6%. There was no statistically significant difference in the COVID-19 IgG/IgM + IgA seropositivity status with age, gender, blood group, occupation, or socioeconomic status. The IgG and IgM/IgA/IgG ELISA kits showed a difference of 13 cases which could be attributed to the higher sensitivity of IgG alone ELISA kit. This increased the seroprevalence by 3%. CONCLUSION: The majority of donors were either IgG or IgM and IgA positive, despite remaining asymptomatic. The seropositivity rate coincided with the COVID-19 surge among population.

This paper focuses on modeling the tribological properties of AZ31-SiC composite using an artificial neural network (ANN) fabricated through the stir casting method. The twenty-seven tests were performed with three loads (10 N, 15 N, and 20 N), three sliding speeds (0.5 m/s, 1.0 m/s, and 1.5 m/s), and three sliding distances (500 m, 750 m, and 1000 m) on wear testing machine and are used in the formation of training sets of ANN. Using the wear test data, Taguchi, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and regression analysis were carried out to determine the effect of the control parameters on the wear and coefficient of friction (COF). The experimental results demonstrate that the wear rate increases with an increase in load and distance and decreases with an increase in velocity. In addition, an alternative method is proposed to predict the wear and COF using ANN modeling with single and multi-hidden layer techniques. With good training, ANN gives accurate and close results to the experimental results. The results obtained using ANN modeling have a percentage of error of 4.71% and 5.79% for wear and COF respectively, when compared to experimental values. This prediction process saves time and costs for the manufacturer.

Introduction CD44, a multistructural and multifunctional transmembrane glycoprotein, is a promising cancer stem cell (CSC) marker that regulates the properties of CSCs, including self-renewal, tumor initiation, and metastasis, and confers resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the gene and protein expression of CD44 and explore its prognostic value in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

The unintended modulation of nuclear receptor (NR) activity by drugs can lead to toxicities amongst the endocrine, gastrointestinal, hepatic cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. While secondary pharmacology screening assays include NRs, safety risks due to unintended interactions of small molecule drugs with NRs remain poorly understood. To identify potential nonclinical and clinical safety effects resulting from functional interactions with 44 of the 48 human-expressed NRs, we conducted a systematic narrative review of the scientific literature, tissue expression data, and used curated databases (OFF-X™) (Off-X, Clarivate) to organize reported toxicities linked to the functional modulation of NRs in a tabular and machine-readable format. The top five NRs associated with the highest number of safety alerts from peer-reviewed journals, regulatory agency communications, congresses/conferences, clinical trial registries, and company communications were the Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR, 18,328), Androgen Receptor (AR, 18,219), Estrogen Receptor (ER, 12,028), Retinoic acid receptors (RAR, 10,450), and Pregnane X receptor (PXR, 8044). Toxicities associated with NR modulation include hepatotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, endocrine disruption, carcinogenicity, metabolic disorders, and neurotoxicity. These toxicities often arise from the dysregulation of receptors like Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα, PPARγ), the ER, PXR, AR, and GR. This dysregulation leads to various health issues, including liver enlargement, hepatocellular carcinoma, heart-related problems, hormonal imbalances, tumor growth, metabolic syndromes, and brain function impairment. Gene expression analysis using heatmaps for human and rat tissues complemented the functional modulation of NRs associated with the reported toxicities. Interestingly, certain NRs showed ubiquitous expression in tissues not previously linked to toxicities, suggesting the potential utilization of organ-specific NR interactions for therapeutic purposes.