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Abstract Natural and anthropogenic causes have led to soil degradation, salinisation of inland areas, and groundwater. The degraded soils are unsuitable for primary agriculture, but can be utilised for saline aquaculture. ICAR-CIFE has initiated a selective breeding program for faster growth in common carp cultured at low salinity (6–8 ppt). The present study demonstrates the dynamic nature of physico-chemical parameters of Inland Saline Ground Water (ISGW) and the growth potential of selectively bred F1 generation of common carp using ISGW. About 1560 common carp fingerlings were stocked in two ponds, each representing a unique size class (> 100 g and

The proliferation of Internet of Drones (IoDs)-based use cases has greatly transformed the cyberspace into pervasive and ubiquitous world. The IoD applications could range beyond military, civilian and industrial domains. However, these drones work in hostile environment, and face many challenges related to communication security. Owing to energy, storage and computational resource-constraints, the complex and heavy cryptographic solutions could not be directly deployed in IoD environment. Several authentication protocols for IoD system can be witnessed however with limitations. In this work, we have demonstrated a two-stage PUF-enabled lightweight authentication protocol (TS-PAID) for IoD setting. In comparison with related protocols, the TS-PAID bring more computational and communicational efficiencies along with resilience against known security threats including physical capture of drone. The security properties of TS-PAID are proven under formal analysis based on Real-or-Random (RoR) random oracle model. The performance findings exhibit practicality and effectiveness for the proposed scheme against the comparative studies.

Purpose: To describe the role of wavefront-guided pupilloplasty in improving visual quality and wavefront parameters in post-keratoplasty patients with pathologically irregular, mydriatic pupils. Methods: A total of 13 eyes of post-penetrating keratoplasty patients with pathologically irregular mydriatic pupil were included in this prospective interventional study. Preoperative wavefront analysis was done with the actual pupil size, and predicted wavefront values were analyzed by setting the postoperative pupil size to 2 mm. Patients showing significant improvement between preoperative and predicted postoperative wavefront values underwent single-pass four-throw pupilloplasty, and all wavefront parameters were again evaluated after 1 week. Preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), pupil size, and wavefront parameters were analyzed. Results: Mean BCVA improved from a preoperative value of 1.03 ± 0.32 log of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) units to 0.24 ± 0.09 logMAR units. Mean preoperative pupil size was 6.077 ± 0.787 mm, whereas the achieved postoperative pupil size after pupilloplasty was 2.538 ± 0.139 mm. Mean astigmatism root mean square (RMS) value improved from 4.169 ± 3.876 to 0.875 ± 0.926 µm (P < 0.05), and mean coma value changed from 1.525 ± 1.962 to 0.128 ± 0.152 µm (P < 0.05). Mean point spread function Stehl ratio value improved from 0.056 ± 0.032 to 0.223 ± 0.102. Mean RMS (optical path difference) value changed from 6.248 ± 4.721 to 0.943 ± 0.947 µm (P < 0.001), Mean RMS (high orders) value changed from 3.788 ± 3.537 to 0.328 ± 0.256 µm (P value 0.003), and the mean spherical aberration value changed from 0.646 ± 0.873 to 0.223 ± 0.102 µm (P value 0.024). All postoperative wavefront parameters showed statistically significant improvement from the preoperative parameters. Conclusion: Wavefront-guided pupilloplasty can predict and improve wavefront parameters and visual quality in post-keratoplasty patients with pathologically irregular mydriatic pupils.

Abstract Abstract Carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii has evolved as the most troublesome microorganism with multiple virulence factors. Biofilm formation, porins, micronutrient capturing mechanism and quorum sensing, provide protection against desiccation, host-pathogen killing and enhance its persistence. The conservation of these factors between colonizing and pathogenic carbapenem resistant A. baumannii has been barely investigated. We studied biofilm formation, desiccation survival, motility and hemolysis in pathogenic carbapenem resistant A. baumannii and colonizer carbapenem resistant A. baumannii from the hospital environment. The virulent genes pgaA, csuE, bap, ompA, abaI, pilA and bauA were detected by simplex-PCR and Quantitative Real-Time PCR was done for expressional studies. In-vivo survival percentage was studied by Galleria mellonella (wax moth) killing assay. Phenotypic characterization revealed that the biofilm formation and desiccation survival proportion was significantly higher in colonizer carbapenem resistant A. baumannii (p

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate serum cystatin C as a potential biomarker for diabetic retinopathy (DR) in a rural Indian population, addressing the urgent need for effective screening tools amidst rising diabetes prevalence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study recruited 112 patients with diabetes mellitus from Sambalpur, Odisha, India, categorized into groups with and without DR. Serum cystatin C levels were measured alongside clinical and demographic parameters, using established diagnostic methods. RESULTS: Patients with DR exhibited significantly higher serum cystatin C levels compared to those without DR (mean: 0.99 ± 0.50 mg/L vs. 0.80 ± 0.36 mg/L, P = 0.027). Adjusted analysis showed a notable association between higher cystatin C tertiles and DR (adjusted odd’s ratio: 7.65, 95% confidence interval: 1.49–39.08, P = 0.01), highlighting its potential as an independent predictor. CONCLUSION: Elevated serum cystatin C levels were strongly associated with the presence of DR, suggesting its utility as a biomarker for early identification and risk stratification in diabetic patients. Integration of cystatin C measurement into routine clinical practice may enhance DR screening and management strategies, offering potential benefits in reducing vision loss and improving patient outcomes. This study underscores the need for further longitudinal research to validate these findings and elucidate the temporal relationship between cystatin C levels and DR progression.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as the best alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based vehicles due to their lower emission rate and operating cost. The escalating growth of EVs has increased the necessity for distributed charging stations. On the other hand, the fast charging of EVs can be improved by the use of efficient converters. Hence, the fractional order proportional resonant (FOPR) controller-based current-fed bidirectional DC-DC converter is proposed in this work for EV charging applications. The output capacitance of the switches is utilized to achieve the resonance condition for zero voltage switching (ZVS) and zero current switching (ZCS). The proposed converter topology is implemented using the MATLAB Simulink tool. The result analysis verified that the proposed converter topology provides better switching characteristics for different operating modes, which is necessary for a high-voltage EV charger. Hence, it is proved that the proposed converter is more efficient for battery charging in EVs.

Abstract Balanced plant nutrition and optimal micro-climate are critical for achieving higher production sustainably. Substituting mineral fertilizers with organic amendments under water-conserving strategies like mulch can enhance the quality and yield and improve soil health. Therefore, a two-year study was conducted to examine the synergistic effects of mulch and reducing inorganic fertilizers and partially substituting organic amendments on essential oil (EO) yield and its composition, and soil properties in Salvia sclarea, an industrially important crop. Two mulching practices (M1: without mulch; M2: with mulch) and five nitrogen (N) management practices [N1: control; N2: 100% recommended dose of N i.e.,120 kg/ha; N3: 25% N through chemical fertilizer (CF) + 75% N through farm yard manure (FYM); N4: 50% N through CF + 50% N through FYM, N5: 75% N through CF + 25% N through FYM] were taken as experimental treatments, with a total of ten treatment combinations in a split-plot design during 2021-22 and 2022-23. The results showed that applying mulch increased the plant height, leaf area index (LAI), and EO yield. Among N management practices, N2 outperformed for all the morpho-physiological and yield parameters studied except stem diameter and produced at par outcomes with N5 in case of flower spike per plant, LAI, chlorophyll a and b, flower spike yield, EO content and yield. Optimum soil temperature and moisture under mulching modulate the nutrient concentration; similarly, N being necessary for photosynthesis, translocation of nutrients, enzymatic activity, and vegetative and reproductive growth, synergistically enhanced the EO yield and altered the composition. The heat map displayed an inconsistent pattern of the treatment combination’s impact on EO components. In soil properties, treatment N5 recorded highest value of available N at 0–0.15 m soil depth; however, at 0.15–0.30 m, N2 registered a higher value and produced at par results with N5. In case of potassium and soil organic carbon, T3 recorded higher value, followed by T4 and T5 at 0–0.15 m. Considering the soil health and without compromising the EO yield much, the present study suggested replacing 25% of recommended chemical N with organic manures under mulch for sustainable and economical production of S. sclarea.

Background: A common cause of acute febrile illness in India is scrub typhus, a zoonosis caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. It is a reemerging cause of acute undifferentiated fever in India and around the world. It was previously thought to be a seasonal disease occurring mainly in rural areas, but cases are now frequently detected in urban areas outside the monsoon season. This study determined the prevalence of scrub typhus and investigated the clinical and laboratory characteristics of scrub typhus-positive AFI cases and their outcomes. Material and Methods: The hospital based cross-sectional study included rapid tests for malaria parasites, scrub typhus immunoglobulin M (IgM) (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), typhoid IgM, and dengue IgM. Patients underwent the required investigations, such as cerebrospinal fluid examination. Results: Seventy-two (37.1%) of the 194 AFI patients were scrub typhus positive. The male-to-female ratio was 0.8:1. The most common symptom among the 72 scrub typhus-positive AFI patients was loose stools (61.1%), followed by vomiting (59.7%), abdominal pain (52.8%), headache (30.6%), swelling (13.9%), cramps (13.9%), and rash (11.1%). About 69.7% of rural land is scrub typhus positive. Fifty-four (75.0%) patients had thrombocytopenia, whereas hyperbilirubinemia was noted in 7 (9.7%) cases. Impaired renal function was noted in 9 (12.5%) cases. Hypocalcemia was reported in 25 (36.7%) patients, hyponatremia in 40 (55.6%) cases, and hypokalemia in 2 (2.8%) cases. Conclusion: Scrub typhus is common, accounting for a third of AFI cases. It is more common in rural and female-dominated areas. A child admitted with AFI with hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and anemia with thrombocytopenia must be evaluated for scrub typhus.

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is a diverse category of hematological malignancies defined by the clonal proliferation of immature lymphoid cells. While advances in diagnostic procedures and treatment modalities have improved results for many patients, a group of them exhibit clinical characteristics that indicate a high risk of disease progression and unfavorable consequences. Understanding the underlying molecular processes and developing accurate prognostic indicators in this high-risk group is critical for personalized treatment approaches and better patient outcomes. Hematological markers, immunophenotyping profiles, and chromosomal defects in people who were clinically high risk (CHR) for ALL are discussed in this review. Alterations in hematological markers, such as elevated white blood cell counts, decreased hemoglobin levels, and thrombocytopenia, are indicative of the aggressive nature of high-risk ALL. Immunophenotyping investigations revealed abnormal expression patterns of lineage-specific markers, indicating clonal proliferation and differentiation arrest. Furthermore, cytogenetic examination revealed frequent chromosomal defects, such as the Philadelphia chromosome and hyperdiploidy, which have been linked to a poor prognosis in ALL patients. The combination of hematological, immunophenotypic, and cytogenetic data gives a thorough knowledge of disease biology and assists in risk assessment for patients with CHR for ALL. The present review elucidates the intricate interaction of hematological, immunophenotypic, and cytogenetic abnormalities in persons at clinically high risk for ALL, emphasizing the importance of integrated diagnostic techniques to enhance patient outcomes and optimize treatment strategies.

Background: Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the most common cause of sporadic encephalitis that often presents as an emergency case of acute or sub-acute nature associated with poor prognosis. Early suspicion and prompt diagnostic testing with adequate antiviral therapy can only reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. This study aims to evaluate the role of serological and molecular diagnosis of encephalitis caused by HSV 1 and 2 for timely detection of the disease. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology, Rajendra Institute of Medical Science, Ranchi, from April 2021 to September 2022. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected and processed for the detection of HSV DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as well as serum samples were collected from those patients and were processed for the detection of IgM by ELISA. Results: A total of 188 CSF samples were collected, out of which 4 HSV-1 and 1 HSV-2 samples were found to be positive by conventional PCR. 36 samples were positive for HSV-1 and 2 IgM ELISA. 26.06% of cases belonged to patients between 0 and 10 years of age followed by 17.06% in 51-60 years age groups. Conclusion: PCR is the optimal diagnostic test, but the sample must be collected in the early stages of the disease. Diagnosis by PCR assay of CSF samples targeting HSV DNA is the best confirmatory test at hand for early detection and also helps in estimating the incidence of herpes simplex virus encephalitis.

Abstract Smart device manufacturers rely on insights from smart home (SH) data to update their devices, and similarly, service providers use it for predictive maintenance. In terms of data security and privacy, combining distributed federated learning (FL) with blockchain technology is being considered to prevent single point failure and model poising attacks. However, adding blockchain to a FL environment can worsen blockchain's scaling issues and create regular service interruptions at SH. This article presents a scalable Blockchain‐based Privacy‐preserving Federated Learning (BPFL) architecture for an SH ecosystem that integrates blockchain and FL. BPFL can automate SHs' services and distribute machine learning (ML) operations to update IoT manufacturer models and scale service provider services. The architecture uses a local peer as a gateway to connect SHs to the blockchain network and safeguard user data, transactions, and ML operations. Blockchain facilitates ecosystem access management and learning. The Stanford Cars and an IoT dataset have been used as test bed experiments, taking into account the nature of data (i.e. images and numeric). The experiments show that ledger optimisation can boost scalability by 40–60% in BCN by reducing transaction overhead by 60%. Simultaneously, it increases learning capacity by 10% compared to baseline FL techniques.

Abstract Landslides are frequent all over the world, posing serious threats to human life, infrastructure, and economic operations, making them chronic disasters. This study proposes a novel landslide detection methodology that is automated and based on a hybrid deep learning approach. Currently, Deep Learning is constrained by the lack of applicability, lack of data, and low efficiency in landslide detection but with recent advancement in deep learning-based solutions for landslide detection has sparked considerable advantages over traditional techniques. In order to prevent and mitigate disaster, we introduced a hybrid model based on remote sensing technologies such as satellite images. Specifically, the proposed approach consists hybrid U-Net model integrated with a pyramid pooling layer for landslide detection, which uses high-resolution landslide images from the Landslide4Sense dataset. The UNet-Pyramid model has the following modifications: To improve feature acquisition and advancements to strengthen the model’s attention U-Net architecture is integrated with the pyramid pooling layers and OBIA technique. The UNet-Pyramid model was trained and validated using labeled images taken from the Landslide4Sense dataset and the validated set using OBIA to improve its efficacy. The overall Precision, Recall, and F1 Score of the UNet-pyramid model for landslide detection are 91%, 84%, and 87%, respectively.

AIM: To find out the association of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC)-related modular calcium binding 2 (SMOC2) gene variants rs2255680 and rs13208776 with genotypic and phenotypic characteristics in both familial and non-familial primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. METHODS: A total of 212 POAG patients, comprising 124 familial and 88 non-familial, were enrolled. For genotyping the SMOC2 variant rs2255680, amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) were utilized for analyzing rs13208776 variant. RESULTS: The mean age of familial POAG patients was 50.92±9.12y, with 78 males and 46 females. The mean age of non-familial POAG patients was 53.14±13.44y, with 52 males and 36 females. The SMOC2 gene variant rs13208776 showed the significant association with POAG between familial and non-familial groups. The homozygous G/G variant was frequent among non-familial (60.2%) whereas the heterozygous G/A variant was more frequent in familial POAG patients (46%). There were significant differences in G/A variant between familial and non-familial glaucoma patients, and the risk was decreased to 0.53-fold in non-familial glaucoma patients [odds ratio (OR): 0.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.29-0.94; P=0.033] in codominant model. The risk was further reduced to 0.49-fold (95%CI: 0.28-0.86; P=0.012) in dominant model for non-familial patients. No significant association of SMOC2 gene variant rs2255680 between familial and non-familial glaucoma patients was found in our population. The haplotype analysis showed the decreased risk for TA [OR: 0.48 (95%CI: 0.29-0.79); P=0.004] and an increased risk for TG [OR=2.28 (95%CI: 1.22-4.25); P=0.01] haplotypes. CONCLUSION: Current findings show significant association of SMOC2 gene variant rs13208776 with POAG between familial and non-familial Pakistani patients.

The present study describes a method for the preparation of green titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles from the peel of Solanum tuberosum, commonly known as potato, and the potato peel being a kitchen waste. The green synthesized TiO2 (G- TiO2) nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, TEM, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the G- TiO2 nanoparticles was also shown using the dye bromophenol blue. To explore the biocompatibility of the G- TiO2, the cell viability in normal as well as cancer cells was assessed. Further, the in vivo toxicity of the G- TiO2 nanoparticles was assessed using zebrafish embryos. The novelty of the present invention is to utilize kitchen waste for a useful purpose for the synthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles which is known to have UV light scavenging properties. Moreover, the potato peel is a natural antioxidant and possesses a skin-lightening effect. A combination of the potato peel extract and titanium dioxide prepared using the extract will have a combinatorial effect for protecting UV light exposure to the skin and lightening the skin colour.

Rectal thermometers are commonly used to assess animal health, but non-invasive methods like thermal imaging are gaining popularity for their ease. This study explores using infra-red thermography to measure eye temperatures as a proxy for body temperature in buffaloes. Among 280 adult female buffaloes, rectal temperature averaged 38.26 ± 0.38 °C, while eye temperature averaged 36.99 ± 0.47 °C. Statistical analysis showed a significant positive correlation (0.674, p

The disease burden of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is rising day-by-day and is expected to rise 62 % through 2035. The chewing of tobacco, areca nut, and betel leaf, poor oral hygiene, and chronic infection are common risk factors of OSCC, but genetic and epigenetic factors also contribute equally. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are comprised of small, non-coding endogenous RNA that regulate a plethora of biological activities by targeting messenger RNA through degradation or inhibition. Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA genes can regulate the development and progression of OSCC. The present study aimed to determine the association between SNPs in miRNA genes (miRSNPs) with the risk of OSCC. A case-control study involving 225 histo-pathologically confirmed OSCC cases and 225 healthy controls was conducted, where 25 miRSNPs were analyzed by iPLEX MassArray analysis. A SNP rs12220909 in MIR4293 showed a highly protective effect (CC vs GG, OR = 0.0431, 95%CI = 0.005–0.323, p = 3e-6). Whereas three SNPs, namely, rs4705342 in MIR143 (CC vs TT, OR = 2.25, 95%CI = 2.00–2.53, p = 0.0008), rs531564 in MIR124 (CC vs GG, OR = 24.18, 95%CI = 3.22–181.37, p = 3e-6), and rs3746444 in MIR499 (AA vs GG, OR = 2.01, 95%CI = 1.32–3.05, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with a higher risk of OSCC. Additionally, NanoString-based nCounter miRNA expression profiling revealed that miR-499a (Log2FC = −1.07), and miR-143 (Log2FC = −1.56) were aberrantly expressed in OSCC tissue. Taken together, the above miSNPs may contribute to the high incidence of OSCC in central India. However, further studies with large cohorts and ethnic stratification are required to validate our findings.

Background and Aims: Remifentanil and fentanyl are potent opioid analgesics commonly used during surgery due to their distinct pharmacological profiles. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of a generic remifentanil (test drug) with fentanyl and Ultiva (innovator formulation) during general anaesthesia in the Indian population. Methods: This phase III, multi-centre (n = 13), randomised, three-arm, comparative study was conducted from 24 November 2021 to 31 March 2022. Eligible subjects scheduled for elective therapeutic and diagnostic surgical procedures (n = 314) were randomised into generic remifentanil, Ultiva, and fentanyl groups. An independent anaesthetist blinded to treatment allocation assessed efficacy and safety parameters. The primary efficacy endpoint was haemodynamic response during specific activities (endotracheal intubation, skin incision, skin closure, and extubation). Results: The study groups exhibited no significant differences in demographic and baseline characteristics. Heart rate was similar between the remifentanil and Ultiva groups measured during laryngeal intubation, skin incision, skin closure, and extubation (P > 0.05 in all four procedures). Heart rate was significantly higher in the fentanyl group in comparison to the remifentanil group during laryngeal intubation (P = 0.035), skin incision (P = 0.017), skin closure (P = 0.001), and extubation (P = 0.026). The need for vasopressor and anti-cholinergic drugs was similar between groups, and no subject required naloxone administration. Conclusion: Our study’s findings demonstrated that generic remifentanil is non-inferior to fentanyl and equivalent to Ultiva for general anaesthesia in Indian patients undergoing various surgical and diagnostic procedures. Remifentanil offers advantages in terms of optimum haemodynamic stability, fast equilibrating analgesia, and rapid emergence from sedation, making it a suitable alternative to fentanyl.

Introduction: Urolithiasis is the formation of stony concretions in the bladder or urinary tract. Nearly 10% of the population suffers from urolithiasis, which has a high chance of recurring. Many resources are used to treat urinary stones globally, but the need for prevention has been neglected. Aim: To determine the levels of Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus (P), Uric Acid (UA) and Magnesium (Mg) in the blood and urine of patients with urolithiasis, as well as in urinary stones post-procedure. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery at the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences (HIMS), Swami Ram Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India, from November 2021 to October 2022. A total of 80 patients suffering from urolithiasis were involved in the study. Serum and 24-hour urinary samples were collected for quantitative analysis of Mg, Ca, UA and Phosphate (Ph) levels. Urinary stones postsurgery were sent to the biochemistry section of the reference laboratory for semi-quantitative colorimetric determination and morphological analysis. Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient was used to correlate two quantitative variables and a p-value of

Background: In India, majority of the patients with head-and-neck cancers are diagnosed in the locally advanced stage. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of paclitaxel versus cisplatin with concurrent radiotherapy (RT) in patients with locally advanced head-and-neck squamous cell carcinomas (LAHNSCCs). Materials and Methods: This was an open-label, randomized study involving 100 patients with LAHNSCC who were randomly divided into two groups: the first group received paclitaxel (Tax, n = 50, 30 mg/m2/week for 7 weeks) and the second group received cisplatin (Cis, n = 50; 40 mg/m2/week for 7 weeks). Both the groups received concurrent RT in a total dose of 66.6 Gy in 37 fractions of 5 days/week over a period of 7.5 weeks. Results: The complete (46% vs. 36%) and partial (40% vs. 50%) response rates in the Tax + RT group and Cis + RT group were not significantly different (both P > 0.05). Cis + RT resulted in significantly greater Grade I adverse events (AEs) (P < 0.05). While, Grade II, III, and IV AEs were significantly greater with Tax + RT (all P < 0.05). Overall analysis revealed that the use of Cis + RT was associated with a significantly greater number of patients who were free from AEs (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Tax + RT and Cis + RT were equi-efficacious in patients with LAHNSCC. However, Cis + RT had a better safety profile.

Abstract Background Internship is a phase of training wherein medical graduates acquire the skills and competencies required to function independently. It has been reported that interns lack confidence in performing common procedures, as these skills are often learnt through self-learning or performing without supervision. This type of learning endangers patient safety and fails to instil the required confidence in the student. Training in skills laboratories provide opportunity to learn clinical skills in a safe environment. However, skills laboratories are resource-intensive, and there is limited information on different training approaches, such as blended learning, and how the trainees perceive their usefulness. Hence, we conducted this pilot study to assess the perceived usefulness of a blended learning approach for skills training among medical interns. Methods This mixed methods study was conducted in the skills laboratory of an apex medical institute in India, among 42 interns posted for the Interns Skill-based Clinical Induction Program (ISCIP). In this training, a blended learning approach was adopted, which comprised of two components - an online e-learning module, followed by a hands-on training session. The trainees were asked to complete a feedback form and grade different components of the online session, and hands-on session on a five-item Likert-based scale. The scores were expressed as the mean (SD) of a maximum possible score of 5 for each of the components. In order to gain insight of the perceived usefulness of skills training among learners, focused group discussions (FGDs) were conducted. Results The mean (SD) score for perceived importance ranged from 5 (0) to 4.9 (0.2) for various skills. The proportion of interns who felt confident in performing the skill after the training was 88.1% for IV cannulation to 97.6% handwashing, and gloving and gowning. The findings of the qualitative component revealed that interns found the training to be useful and interesting. It was perceived to be more ethical, uniform, well-structured, and provided an opportunity to practice a skill repeatedly. Conclusions The blended learning approach was perceived to be useful among the medical interns. Further research may be conducted in other medical institutes to assess the effectiveness of skills training. Clinical trial registration number Not applicable, as the study is not a trial.

Abstract Background Fish with vertebral monstrosities are very rare in the wild, as those individuals in the natural populations tend to perform poorly to survive in any ecosystem. Species of the fish genus Hypselobarbus as reported (Bleeker in De visschen van den Indischen Archipel, Lange, 1860) are freshwater endemic barbs of Western Ghats and peninsular India. Four species of the genus, namely Hypselobarbus dobsoni (Krishna carp), H. jerdoni (Jerdon’s Carp), H. lithopidos (Canara barb) and H. thomassi (Red Canarese barb), were collected from three different river systems of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot of India. Some individuals were found to be different from normal specimens, with extremely large body depth compared to normal specimens. The study was initiated with the aim of bringing an understanding on monstrosities of these four species along with identifying the normal and abnormal individuals in an integrated approach; employing traditional morphometry, X-ray imaging and barcoding mtDNA COI X-ray imaging could elucidate the vertebral monstrosities, which are discussed in detail. The mtDNA COI gene sequences generated were used to draw conclusions on identity of both normal and deformed individuals. Results The phenotypic deformities have led to deepening of the body with a more robust and reduced length which is evident from the morphometric comparison of normal specimens with deformed ones. The radiographic images revealed reduced intra-vertebral space in comparison with the normal vertebrae, deformed vertebrae were between 25 and 32, showing significantly altered intra-vertebral space. Slight genetic divergence of 1.1% between normal and deformed specimens in mitochondrial DNA COI gene of H. lithopidos and H. thomassi and no divergence in H. dobsoni and H. jerdoni were also observed. Conclusion The specimens were collected from areas with high anthropogenic stresses, abate water quality, and habitat, which could be possible reasons of appearance of individuals with deformed vertebrae. Several environmental and genetic factors might have influenced the development of these robust short-bodied phenotypes in these rivers and possess slight genetic divergence from normal specimens. However, these deformities may also be the result of the stress during embryonic and early life stages in the wild.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted public health, with emerging evidence suggesting substantial effects on maternal and neonatal health. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the prevalence and risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in newborns born to mothers infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Methods We conducted a literature search in Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science up to April 20, without language or date restrictions. Observational studies reporting on the prevalence or risk of RDS among newborns from mothers with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. Quality assessment was performed using the JBI tool. Statistical analysis was performed by using R software version 4.3. Results Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of RDS among newborns born to COVID-19-infected mothers was 11.5% (95% CI: 7.4–17.3%), with significant heterogeneity (I² = 93%). Newborns from infected mothers had a significantly higher risk of developing RDS, with a pooled risk ratio (RR) of 2.69 (95% CI: 1.77 to 4.17). Conclusion Newborns born to mothers with COVID-19 have a substantially increased risk of developing RDS. These findings emphasize the need for vigilant monitoring and appropriate management of pregnant women with COVID-19 to mitigate adverse neonatal outcomes.

Abstract Groundwater poisoning by heavy metals has caused serious health hazards in the exposed population globally. Manganese (Mn) poisoning causing human health hazards is very meagerly reported worldwide. The present research elucidates for the first time the catastrophic effect of manganese causing cancer in the Gangetic plains of Bihar (India). The blood samples of n = 1146 cancer patients were voluntarily obtained for the study, after their consent. Their household water samples were also collected for the study. All the samples were analysed for Mn contamination by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The study indicates high Mn contamination in the cancer patient blood samples with highest content as 6022 µg/L. Moreover, the cancer patient’s household handpump water samples also contained elevated Mn contamination. The correlation coefficient study finds significant association between Mn contamination in blood of cancer patients and their handpump water. The carcinoma group of cancer patients mostly in Stage III & IV had significant Mn contamination in their blood (above WHO/BIS permissible limit). The geospatial study depicts Mn contamination in handpump water in the state of Bihar in correlation with cancer patient’s blood samples. This novel finding is being reported in India for the first time, which correlates cancer with handpump drinking water. The long-term Mn exposure could be one of the causative agents for elevating cancer incidences. However, other confounding risk factors cannot be denied.

Abstract Background As e-cigarettes gain popularity as potential tobacco cessation aids, concerns arise about their dual use with traditional cigarettes, especially among pregnant women, potentially subjecting both women and fetuses to heightened risks. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the overall prevalence of dual use of tobacco smoking and e-cigarette use in pregnant women. Methods A literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane on October 20, 2023. The included studies reported the number of pregnant women and the count of those who were dual users. Quality assessment was undertaken using the JBI tool. The pooled prevalence of dual use was determined via a random-effects model. All statistical analyses were executed using R software, version 4.3. PROSPERO: CRD42023486020. Results Eighteen studies were analyzed, encompassing 5,983,363 pregnant women. The meta-analysis indicated an overall prevalence of 4.6% (95% CI: 2.0-10.3) for dual users with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 100%). Subgroup analysis based on the country showed a prevalence of 4.9% (95% CI: 2.0 to 11.6) for USA and 8.1% (95% CI: 0.00 to 1.00) for UK. Meta-regression revealed reduction of prevalence of dual use from 2019 to 2023. A potential publication bias was indicated by the LFK index and the Doi plot. Conclusion The dual consumption of e-cigarettes and traditional tobacco in pregnant women is a significant health concern, with a notable prevalence. Given the established risks of tobacco smoking during pregnancy and the uncertainties surrounding e-cigarettes, more comprehensive research and public health interventions are urgently needed to address this issue.

Abstract Background People living with HIV (PLWH) are more vulnerable to infectious and non-infectious comorbidities due to chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction. Air pollution is a major global health risk, contributing to millions of deaths annually, primarily from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. However, the link between air pollution and mortality risk in PLWH is underexplored. This systematic review assesses the association between exposure to pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), and carbon monoxide (CO) and mortality risk in PLWH. Methods A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase was conducted for studies published up to August 2024. Eligibility criteria included cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional studies assessing air pollution exposure and mortality in PLWH. Nested-Knowledge software was used for screening and data extraction. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was applied for quality assessment. A narrative approach and tabular summarization were used for data synthesis and presentation. Results Nine studies, mostly from China, demonstrated a significant association between long-term exposure to PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 and increased risks of AIDS-related and all-cause mortality in PLWH. Hazard ratios for mortality increased by 2.38–5.13% per unit increase in PM concentrations, with older adults (> 60), females, and those with lower CD4 counts (

Abstract The pearlspot, Etroplus suratensis is a climate resilient cichlid fish that exhibits unusual adaptation to salinity. The fish is able to complete full life cycle in diverse salinity habitats ranging from fresh water to marine environments. High-quality primary and phased genome assemblies were generated for pearlspot fish using PacBio HiFi and Arima HiC sequencing technologies, for the first time. The primary assembly is highly contiguous with contig N50 length of 36 Mb. The final assembly is of 1.247 Gb with N50 length of 51.57 Mb and 98% of the genome length anchored to 24 chromosomes. The genome was assessed to be 99.9% complete based on BUSCO evaluation and was predicted to contain 52.96% repeat elements. We have predicted 27,192 protein encoding genes, of which 21,580 were functionally annotated. The genome offers an invaluable resource to understand adaptation of pearlspot fish to diverse salinity habitats.

Abstract The dependability of nodes in an Industrial Wireless Sensor Network (IWSN) is vital for precise decision-making and the overall functioning of the network. Unreliable nodes have the potential to result in incorrect data, which can undermine the reliability of monitoring and control systems. Inaccurate decision-making in IWSNs can result in operational failures, safety risks, inadequate resource utilization, elevated energy consumption, and susceptibility to security vulnerabilities. Trust models tackle these challenges by recognizing and reducing the impact of unreliable nodes, improving the precision of data, and strengthening the security of the IWSNs. To overcome these challenges, this research work introduces a “Novel approach for Trust Utilization and Reliability Enhancement” (NATURE) in IWSNs. The unique approach employed in proposed NATURE model is distinguished by its multi-level clustered model, which improves attack mitigation, reduces communication overhead, and enhances overall network efficiency. This model is particularly effective in industrial environments where the network structure and the nature of data traffic are highly dynamic. The use of a multifactor trust estimation framework allows NATURE to assess the trustworthiness of SNs based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including behavior patterns, energy consumption, and communication reliability. By operating on multiple levels, NATURE can dynamically adjust trust functions to accurately distinguish between trustworthy and faulty SNs, thereby improving network reliability. Moreover, NATURE employs the temporal decay factor to prioritize recent node behaviors, ensuring that obsolete actions have minimal impact. Additionally, it uses the dynamic adjustment factor to balance the influence of negative interactions, encouraging reliable and responsive trust evaluations. Additionally, NATURE integrates a dynamically adjustable logical time window to enhance monitoring precision and adaptability, outperforming fixed-length windows in anomaly detection. NATURE integrates an Optimal Lead Node Election Algorithm (OLNEA) to improve cluster leader selection process. OLNEA considers network density, link quality, and Lead Node (LN), battery life, ensuring competent data aggregation and load balancing. By periodically selecting robust LNs and seamlessly switching to alternatives, NATURE promotes reliability and mitigates the impact of low LN battery levels. Additionally, NATURE employs a trust-based attacks detection algorithm to fortify IWSN security. This algorithm employs keen methods to verify data integrity, monitor energy levels, and ensure message authenticity, effectively safeguarding the IWSN from malevolent attacks and ensuring the safe transmission of data. Experimental results highlight NATURE’s exceptional performance across significant metrics when compared to existing trust schemes. In a WSN of 500 SNs with 30% being malicious, NATURE detects malicious behavior with a 97% accuracy, outperforming other models. Even with 50% malicious SNs, NATURE maintains a high detection accuracy of 91%, again surpassing alternative approaches. Additionally, NATURE significantly reduces energy consumption while achieving efficient throughput rates, underscoring its effectiveness in challenging network conditions.

Abstract This research explores the design of an infrared (IR) photodetector using mercury cadmium telluride (Hg1–x Cd x Te). It proposes two- and three-dimensional homojunction models based on p+-Hg0.7783Cd0.2217Te/n–-Hg0.7783Cd0.2217Te, focusing on applications in the long-wavelength infrared range. The photodetector’s performance is analyzed using Silvaco ATLAS TCAD software and compared with analytical calculations based on drift-diffusion, tunneling, and Chu’s approximation techniques. Optimized for operation at 10.6 μm wavelength under liquid nitrogen temperature, the proposed photodetector demonstrates promising optoelectronic characteristics including the dark current density of 0.20 mA/cm2, photocurrent density of 4.98 A/cm2, and photocurrent density-to-dark current density ratio of 2.46 × 104, a 3-dB cut-off frequency of 104 GHz, a rise time of 0.8 ps, quantum efficiency of 58.30 %, peak photocurrent responsivity of 4.98 A/W, specific detectivity of 3.96 × 1011 cmHz1/2/W, and noise equivalent power of 2.52 × 10–16 W/Hz1/2 indicating its potential for low-noise, high-frequency and fast-switching applications. The study also incorporates machine learning regression models to validate simulation results and provide a predictive framework for performance optimization, evaluating these models using various statistical metrics. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the synergy between advanced materials science and computational techniques in developing next-generation optoelectronic devices. By combining theoretical modeling, simulation, and machine learning, the research highlights the potential to accelerate progress in IR detection technology and enhance device performance and efficiency. This multidisciplinary methodology could serve as a model for future studies in optoelectronics, illustrating how advanced materials and computational methods can be utilized to enhance device capabilities.

Edge–cloud coordination offers the chance to mitigate the enormous storage and processing load brought on by a massive increase in traffic at the network’s edge. Though this paradigm has benefits on a large scale, outsourcing the sensitive data from the smart devices deployed in an Internet of Things (IoT) application may lead to privacy leakage. With an attribute-based keyword search (ABKS), the search over ciphertext can be achieved; this reduces the risk of sensitive data explosion. However, ABKS has several issues, like huge computational overhead to perform multi-keyword searches and tracing malicious users. To address these issues and enhance the performance of ABKS, we propose a novel traceable and lightweight attribute-based keyword search technique in an Edge–cloud-assisted IoT, named TL-ABKS, using edge–cloud coordination. With TL-ABKS, it is possible to do effective multi-keyword searches and implement fine-grained access control. Further, TL-ABKS outsources the encryption and decryption computation to edge nodes to enable its usage to resource-limited IoT smart devices. In addition, TL-ABKS achieves tracing user identity who misuse their secret keys. TL-ABKS is secure against modified secret keys, chosen plaintext, and chosen keyword attacks. By comparing the proposed TL-ABKS with the current state-of-the-art schemes, and conducting a theoretical and experimental evaluation of its performance and credibility, TL-ABKS is efficient.

Introduction The Kayakalp guidelines for public healthcare facilities under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) focus on improving sanitation, cleanliness, and infection control at public hospitals in India. This study was conducted in a 960-bed tertiary-level teaching hospital in eastern India. Housekeeping has been a challenge in public institutions, with factors like overcrowding and resource constraints. Tobacco and betel nut chewing, spitting, poor sanitation practices, and open urination are major challenges in ensuring sanitation at the hospital. The research objective was to study the implementation of the Kayakalp guidelines for quality improvement in housekeeping services at the institution. Methods A pre- and post-interventional study was conducted using the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) quality tool. Plan phases included the gap assessment using the Kayakalp checklist with numerical scoring. Necessary interventions were done under three headings: structure, processes, and outcomes in the “Do” phase. The “Check” phase included monitoring of the activities followed by the “Act” phase, which included a review of the action plan. External experts nominated by the government conducted the final assessments and recommended it as one of the cleanest hospitals. Results A 360-degree improvement was observed in hospital services, with assessment score improvement from 73.68% to 95.0%. The institution received the first prize in 2020 and 2021 and runners-up Kayakalp National Award under category “B” (Institute of National Importance) Hospitals in 2019. Conclusion The implementation of Kayakalp guidelines of the Government of India proved to be efficient in the improvement of housekeeping and infection control practices in the institution.

Abstract Four distinct neural models were used to evaluate the efficiency of a V-trough solar water heater (VTSWH) equipped with square-cut twisted tape (SCTT) and V-cut twisted tape (VCTT) at two different twist ratios, 3 and 5. The objective of this study was the use of ANFIS (Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System), G.L.R. (Generalised linear regression), R.T. (Regression tree), and SVM (Support Vector Machine). A total of 162 data sets were acquired for these models through a variety of trials. Outdoor experiments were done using a twist ratio of Y = 3 and Y = 5, using both SCTT and VCTT. The models included eight distinct variables: ambient temperature, water mass flow rate, water intake temperature, water exit temperature, absorber plate temperature, tube temperature, solar intensity, and twist ratio. The dependent variables in this study are the Nusselt number (Nu), friction factor (FF), and efficiency (η). 130 datasets were chosen for training purposes, while 32 were used for testing. Using the ANFIS, G.L.R., R.T., and SVM techniques, the correlation coefficient (R2) values for Nusselt number were 0.9990, 0.9961, 0.9562, and 0.9280 for friction factor 0.9966, 0.9683, 0.9810, and 0.9560, and for efficiency 0.9997, 0.9976, 0.9845, and 0.9614, respectively. Comparing all models shows that ANFIS is the most effective of the four strategies studied. The ANFIS model outperformed the other models regarding Nu, FF, and η, with RMSE values of 0.0805, 0.0.0004, and 0.4534. According to the above data, the VTSWH thermal performance predicted using the ANFIS approach has the highest accuracy.

Gallbladder perforation is a less common clinical disease due to its rarity and diagnostic challenge. It is a rare but potentially fatal adverse consequence of acute cholecystitis. A single institution’s experience with managing this condition is incorporated into this case series.

World Health Organization and Bureau of Indian Standards recommend zero tolerance for coliforms in drinking water. A total of 592 drinking sources from 11 districts of Himachal Pradesh, India, were screened for coliform contamination and the presence of fecal origin Escherichia coli. The study revealed contamination levels of 55.6% and 9.6% for coliforms and fecal E. coli, respectively. The coliform contamination levels were significantly higher for natural water sources (67.1%) and public water supplies (59.7%) compared to groundwater sources (31.5%). The presence of fecal-origin E. coli was highest (11.6%) in public supplies, followed by natural (9.9%) and groundwater (4.7%) sources.

Scrub typhus, an emerging infectious menace in India, is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted through larval trombiculid mites. Despite its typical presentation as undifferentiated febrile illness, scrub typhus can manifest severe complications, including the rare occurrence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). We present a noteworthy case of DVT in a 35-year-old female with scrub typhus, delving into the intricate interplay between rickettsial infection and vascular pathology, and exploring contemporary therapeutic strategies.

Background: Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the kidney, rarely reported in children, and often misdiagnosed as a neoplasm. Clinical Description: A 2-month-old preterm baby boy was hospitalized for bronchiolitis. Examination showed tachypnea, normal pulses, improper weight gain since birth, hypertension and was incidentally detected to have palpable right kidney, without any abnormality in urinary stream. Management and Outcome: Routine blood investigations and urinalysis were normal. Chest X-ray was consistent with bronchiolitis and the baby was managed accordingly along with nifedipine for hypertension. Ultrasound abdomen showed an enlarged right kidney with hypoechoic mass in the upper pole and magnetic resonance imaging further showed the mass having areas of necrosis infiltrating into surrounding tissues. Considering a possibility of neoplasm, nephrectomy was performed. However, histopathological evaluation showed evidence of XGP. The baby thrived well, postnephrectomy and remained asymptomatic. Conclusion: This case creates awareness regarding occurrence of XGP in such a young infant, where diagnosis was made incidentally, only during a thorough systemic examination, followed by radiological imaging and histopathology.

Background/Objectives: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a complex neurogenerative disorder, manifests as dementia and concomitant neuropsychiatric symptoms, including apathy, depression, and circadian disruption. The pathology involves a profound degeneration of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, leading to the impairment of both short-term and long-term memory. The cholinergic hypothesis is among the various theories proposed, that assume the loss of the cholinergic tract contributes to the onset of AD and proves clinically effective in managing mild to moderate stages of the disease. This study explores the potential therapeutic efficacy of sulfonamide-based butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors in mitigating scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats. Methods: Behavioral assessments utilizing Y-maze, Barnes maze, and neurochemical assays were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the test compounds. Results: Results demonstrated a significant reduction in the impact of scopolamine administration on behavioral tasks at a dose of 20 mg/kg for both compounds. Correspondingly, neurochemical assays corroborated these findings. In silico docking analysis on rat butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) was performed to elucidate the binding mode of the compounds. Subsequent molecular dynamics studies unveiled the formation of stable complexes between the test compounds and rat BChE. Conclusions: These findings contribute valuable insights into the potential therapeutic role of sulfonamide-based butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors in addressing memory deficits associated with AD, emphasizing their in silico molecular interactions and stability.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) in their many formulations have prompted an immense interest in nanomedicine and drug development. Numerous ZnO-NPs bioactive formulations demonstrate remarkable broad applications in deciphering their therapeutic effects and bioimaging. Their unique size, morphology-dependent properties and modifiable surface chemistry have made them promising candidates for translation into novel, alternative nanomedicines. ZnO-NPs demonstrate biocompatibility and are non-toxic with relatively required in-expensive production techniques. This review presents an in-depth comprehension of the synthesis, chemical and biological peculiarities of ZnO-NPs, including their varied manufacturing methods and their impactful applications in biomedicine. The physical, chemical and biological synthesis approaches that are unique for ZnO-NPs synthesis were comprehensively reviewed, followed by their applications in therapeutics (anticancer, antibacterial, drug delivery, skin treatment, antidiabetic and antioxidant), diagnostics (bioimaging and biosensor) and theranostics as well as their health hazards. ZnO-NPs exhibit antibacterial and anticancer activities, primarily through the liberation of zinc ions and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which disrupt the cell membrane. Their anticancer properties are additionally apprised with an escalation in caspase 3/7 along with the modulation of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins. ZnO-NPs are reviewed to attenuate hepatocellular carcinoma. Further, this article comprehended various in-vitro and in-vivo therapeutic effects of novel drug formulations of ZnO-NPs. It also delved into two fascinating areas: ZnO-NPs’ performance in comparison with other NPs and the potential of ZnO-NPs heterostructures with 2D nanomaterials. The goal of this review is to inspire further research efforts to meet the growing needs of next-generation nanomedicine.

Abstract Background Real-time disease surveillance is an important component of infection control in at-risk populations. However, data on cases or from lab testing is often not available in many low-resource settings. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDT), including immunochromatographic assays, may provide a low cost, expedited source of infection data. Methods We conducted a pilot survey-based prevalence mapping study of enteric infection in Camp 24 of the camps for the forcibly displaced Rohingya population from Myanmar in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. We randomly sampled the population and collected and tested stool from under-fives for eight pathogens using RDTs in January–March 2021 and September–October 2021. A Bayesian geospatial statistical model allowing for imperfect sensitivity and specificity of the tests was adapted. Results We collected and tested 396 and 181 stools in the two data collection rounds. Corrected prevalence estimates ranged from 0.5% (Norovirus) to 27.4% (Giardia). Prevalence of Escherichia coli O157, Campylobacter, and Cryptosporidium were predicted to be higher in the high density area of the camp with relatively high probability (70–95%), while Adenovirus, Norovirus, and Rotavirus were lower in the areas with high water chlorination. Clustering of cases of Giardia and Shigella was also observed, although associated with relatively high uncertainty. Conclusions With an appropriate correction for diagnostic performance RDTs can be used to generate reliable prevalence estimates, maps, and well-calibrated uncertainty estimates at a significantly lower cost than lab-based studies, providing a useful approach for disease surveillance in these settings.

Introduction: There is a wide range of pathological lesions that can involve the urinary bladder, such as congenital anomalies, inflammatory conditions, metaplastic lesions and tumours which are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Broadly, bladder lesions are categorised as neoplastic and non neoplastic. Some urothelial lesions have mixed features or a tendency to transform into urothelial carcinoma such as metaplastic lesions, inverted papillomas, atypical papillary hyperplasia, Papillary Urothelial Neoplasm of Low Malignant Potential (PUNLMP) and urothelial dysplasia. They are grouped as grey zone lesions. Identifying the malignant nature of grey zone lesions is difficult to identify by histopathological examination. Pathologists are trying to differentiate and classify bladder tumours using Immunohistochemical (IHC) markers such as Cytokeratin (CK) 20, CK-7, p53, Ki-67, etc., to help oncologists take proper decisions regarding patient management. Aim: To study the histopathological lesions of urinary bladder tumours and diagnose the malignant nature of grey zone lesions using IHC marker CK 20. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study of urinary bladder lesions was conducted in the Department of Pathology of Subharti Medical College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India between December 2012 and October 2014. A total of 87 patients with urological complaints were selected for the study. Data related to age, sex, clinical symptoms and personal habits were noted on a working proforma. Biopsy materials were processed and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) for histopathological examination. The intensity of the reaction was determined in different fields, ranging from negative (0) to intense (3). Data thus obtained were analysed and presented in this paper. Results: Out of 87 cases of urinary bladder lesions, 47 (54.02%) were neoplastic, 26 (29.88%) non neoplastic and 14 (16.09%) grey zone lesions. They were more common in males, particularly in the 7th and 6th decades of life, i.e., 27 (31.03%) and 22 (25.28%) respectively. The most common histopathological finding in non neoplastic lesions was inflammatory conditions seen in 21 (80.76%) cases; Papillary urothelial carcinoma-low-grade in 26 (55.31%) cases of neoplastic lesions and PUNLMP in 8 (57.14%) cases of grey zone lesions. The result was positive with CK 20 in 5 (62.5%) cases of PUNLMP, 1 (100%) urothelial dysplasia, and 1 (100%) poorly differentiated tumour tissues but negative in 3 (37.5%) cases of PUNLMP, 2 (100%) of Adenocarcinoma and 1 (100%) case of Nested Variant of Urothelial Carcinoma (NVUC). Conclusion: CK 20 is a good IHC marker for determining the malignant nature of tissues in grey zone lesions. The results will be more reliable when used together with other markers.

Abstract Introduction Lower limb amputation significantly impacts individuals’ quality of life, with prostheses playing a crucial role in rehabilitation and mobility restoration. In Nepal, where access to advanced medical care is limited, understanding the factors affecting the well-being of prosthesis users is essential for optimizing rehabilitation services. This study investigates the sociodemographic and health-related variables influencing the quality of life among lower-limb amputees using prostheses in Nepal. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at a super-specialized disability care center within a tertiary care hospital. The study included 43 amputees who had received prostheses at least five years prior and were regular users. The sample was drawn from patients at the same hospital. The study collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, health components, and pain experiences. Health-related quality of life (HrQoL) was assessed using the SF-12 tool, with scores above 50 indicating high HrQoL on the Mental Component Summary (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS). Scores below 50 indicated low HrQoL. Factors associated with these variables were analyzed using Chi-square (χ²) at a 95% confidence interval. Results Our study assessed the health-related quality of life among lower limb amputees, finding that 76.74% of participants scored high in mental health and 81.40% in physical health. Significant associations were identified between age and marital status with the Mental Component Summary (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS). Additionally, the reason for amputation and the experience of the Phantom pain were linked to the MCS. Factors like treatment for stump pain, perceived effectiveness of stump pain treatment, and residual stump pain were associated with both the PCS and MCS, while actions taken for stump pain and extremity dominance were associated significantly with the PCS. The level of amputation and treatment for phantom pain also showed significant association. All associations were significant (p > 0.05) at a 95% confidence interval. Conclusion These findings indicate that age, marital status, extremity dominance, reason for amputation, stump pain treatment, and pain management are critical factors influencing the quality of life among lower limb amputees. The study underscores the need for comprehensive rehabilitation programs incorporating effective pain management, spouse support, and tailored interventions based on individual demographic and clinical characteristics.

Abstract It is tough and complex to forecast wind speed due to its intermittent and stochastic nature as well as sudden and abrupt variations in the wind speed. Further, it is required to handle the variety of scenarios e.g. cyber‐attacks, unexpected power device malfunction, communication/sensor outages etc. that can cause the missing data.This paper proposes and employs a de‐noising autoencoder algorithm for wind speed forecasting to ensure the handling of missing data information. At the next step, the data is processed via variational mode decomposition technique to mitigate the noise and improves the model's prediction accuracy. Furthermore, the bi‐directional long‐short term memory deep learning approach is tied with convolution neural network to increase prediction accuracy and anticipating the sudden/abrupt changes in wind speed accurately. Finally, actual wind speed related data is examined to scrutinize meticulousness of projected forecast methodology particularly during sudden/abrupt changes in the wind speed. The parameter indicators of the wind speed forecasting technique exhibit the capability of improved predictions under the diversified conditions.

Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) constitutes less than 1%, involving the second part of the subclavian artery (SCA). It can present as an acute upper limb ischemia or aneurysm formation. Here is a case of a 29-year-old male presented with complaints of rest pain over the left hand for the past 2 weeks. Upon evalution, found to have bilateral cervical rib with left subclavian artery occlusion. Treated by cervical rib excision decompression of scalene triangle, subclavian endarterectomy and left brachial embolectomy. Arterial TOS secondary to the cervical rib is rare; pathology involving this external compression results in repeated trauma in the intima of the SCA, resulting in subclavian stenosis, poststenotic dilatation, thrombosis, and aneurysm formation with mural thrombus and distal embolization. Symptomatic cases need decompression +/- arterial repair.

The study examines the cardiac risks associated with certain herbal medicines compared to conventional allopathy drugs. Herbal remedies such as Citrus aurantium, Ephedra sinica, Aristolochia fangchi, Gly- cyrrhiza glabra, Corynanthe yohimbe, and Aconitum spp. are reviewed for their potential to cause adverse cardiac effects, including arrhythmias, hypertension, and cardiomyopathy. These risks are compared to allopathic drugs like digoxin, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide, which are known for their cardiotoxic profiles. Citrus aurantium and Ephedra sinica are noted for their stimulant properties that can lead to elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate, potentially resulting in cardiac arrhythmias. Aristolochia fangchi poses risks of nephrotoxicity and cardiotoxicity due to aristolochic acids. Glycyrrhiza glabra can cause hypokalemia, leading to arrhythmias, especially when used in high doses or for prolonged periods. Corynanthe yohimbe contains yohimbine, which may increase blood pressure and heart rate, heightening the risk of cardiovascular events. Aconitum spp., known for its potent alkaloids, can cause severe cardiac arrhythmias and hypotension. The study highlights the importance of awareness among healthcare providers and patients regarding the potential cardiac risks of both herbal and allopathic medications. It emphasizes the need for careful consideration of the patient’s cardiovascular status when prescribing or consuming these substances, as well as the necessity of rigorous clinical trials and pharmacovigilance to better understand and mitigate these risks.

By employing the melt-quenching technique, the ZnO–SrO–B2O3–PbO (ZSBP) glasses have been successfully fabricated. The derivative of Absorption Spectra Fitting (DASF) method was used to study the energy band gap (Eg) of the glasses which decreases from 3.57 eV to 3.39 eV. The structural properties have been studied using the Raman spectroscopy. The glass transition temperature (Tg) decreases with increase in concentration of the lead oxide. The current study examines the radiation shielding properties at 30.80–444 keV. The addition of PbO to the glasses resulted in a proportionate increase in the mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), suggesting a diminishing tendency in radiation transmission. At 30.80 keV, the MAC values are extremely high and range from 18.06 to 21.11 cm2/g. As density rises, the half value layer (HVL) decreases. In addition, the average HVL (HVL‾) decreases. The glass thickness required to reduce the radiation intensity to 90 %, 50 %, 25 %, and 10 % of its initial value is investigated at an energy of 35.80 keV. The T90 %, T50 %, T25 %, and T10 % values are 0.0020, 0.0132, 0.0264, and 0.0439 cm, respectively. The results suggest that a greater thickness of the radiation barrier is necessary to attain the necessary degree of attenuation.

Abstract This study presents the findings of a comprehensive geotechnical and seismic site investigation conducted at Otuasega Town located in Bayelsa State within the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Subsurface exploration involved advancing 10 boreholes to 30 m depth using hollow stem auger drilling. Continuous disturbed and undisturbed soil sampling was performed at 1.5 m intervals for detailed geotechnical testing. Laboratory tests on the recovered soil samples established the index properties, classification, densities and consistency limits of the stratified deposits. The subsurface profile comprised alternating layers of clay, silt and sand typical of deltaic sediments, with the clay fractions exhibiting medium to high plasticity. Shear wave velocity (Vs) profiling using Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (WASW) techniques categorised the site predominantly as Site Class C and D based on international standards. The Standard Penetration Test (SPT) N-values ranged from 5 to 10, indicating soft normally consolidated clay conditions typical of the Niger Delta region. Predictive empirical models developed from the field and lab data showed strong correlations for estimating key geotechnical parameters such as SPT blow count, Vs and liquefaction resistance. Ground response analyses using the Vs and SPT data indicated significant site amplification potential, with peak ground accelerations up to 1.5 times the bedrock motion. Liquefaction analysis based on the empirical SPT-based methods revealed a high potential for liquefaction in the sandy layers, especially under strong earthquake shaking. The study characterized the complex sedimentology and provided baseline information for seismic microzonation and site-specific ground response analyses to advance understanding of geohazards in this delta environment.

Abstract Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women globally, making its diagnosis and treatment challenging. The use of nanotechnology for cancer diagnosis and treatment is an emerging area of research. To address this issue, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were ligand exchanged with butyric acid (BA) to gain hydrophilic character. The successful functionalization was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. Surface morphology changes were observed using SEM, while TEM confirmed the structural integrity of the MWCNTs after functionalization. Particle size, zeta potential, and UV spectroscopy were also performed to further characterize the nanoparticles. The breast cancer aptamer specific to Mucin-1 (MUC-1) was then conjugated with the functionalized MWCNTs. These MWCNTs successfully targeted breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) as examined by cellular uptake studies and exhibited a reduction in cancer-induced inflammation, as evidenced by gene transcription (qPCR) and protein expression (immunoblotting) levels. Immunoblot and confocal-based immunofluorescence assay (IFA) indicated the ability of CNTs to induce photothermal cell death of MDA-MB-231 cells. Upon imaging, cancer cells were effectively visualized due to the MWCNTs’ ability to act as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. Additionally, MWCNTs demonstrated photothermal capabilities to eliminate bound cancer cells. Collectively, our findings pave the way for developing aptamer-labeled MWCNTs as viable “theranostic alternatives” for breast cancer treatment. Graphical abstract

Abstract On the basis of first-principles calculations and non-adiabatic molecular dynamics (NAMD) simulations, we explore the photocatalytic water splitting properties of PtSSe/ζ-Phosphorene heterostructure. This heterostructure possess semiconducting nature with high carrier mobility (≈ 103 cm2V− 1s− 1). The calculated high value of electron-hole recombination rate as compared to electron transfer rate and hole transfer rate, establish the Type-II mechanism more favorable for PtSSe/ζ-Phosphorene heterostructure. Further, the calculated value of solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of PtSSe/ζ-Phosphorene exceeds to 10%, which makes it the potential candidate for commercial production of hydrogen for industrial use. STH conversion efficiency is further tunable on rotating one monolayer over other with specific angles in the heterostructure. Our study demonstrates PtSSe/ζ-Phosphorene heterostructure to be efficient Type II-scheme photocatalyst for water splitting.

Abstract Groundwater arsenic poisoning has posed serious health hazards in the exposed population. The objective of the study is to evaluate the arsenic ingestion from breastmilk among pediatric population in Bihar. In the present study, the total women selected were n = 513. Out of which n = 378 women after consent provided their breastmilk for the study, n = 58 subjects were non-lactating but had some type of disease in them and n = 77 subjects denied for the breastmilk sample. Hence, they were selected for the women health study. In addition, urine samples from n = 184 infants’ urine were collected for human arsenic exposure study. The study reveals that the arsenic content in the exposed women (in 55%) was significantly high in the breast milk against the WHO permissible limit 0.64 µg/L followed by their urine and blood samples as biological marker. Moreover, the child’s urine also had arsenic content greater than the permissible limit (