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Objective The genesis of both osteoporosis and sarcopenia is multifactorial, complicated, and interrelated. The present study has been undertaken to analyze the prevalence of low bone mineral density (BMD) and the pattern of imaging markers of sarcopenia (paraspinal skeletal muscle area [SMA] and skeletal muscle index [SMI] with respect to clinicodemographic profile in middle-aged patients (30–45 years) undergoing evaluation for low back pain (LBP).

Introduction: Acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) outbreaks are caused mostly by viruses. During July-August 2023, there was a sudden spike in acute hemorrhage conjunctivitis cases in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. To identify the etiological and gain molecular epidemiology of the agent, the study was conducted. Methodology: Conjunctival swabs were collected from patients (n = 128) with presumed acute hemorrhage conjunctivitis visiting two tertiary care hospitals. Results: Enteroviruses infection was identified in 96 (75%) patients. In these patients, coxsackievirus A24 (CV-A24) infection was further confirmed by targeting the genetic regions of 3C protease and VP1. Furthermore, the study established the outbreak was caused by the genotype IV of CV-A24 with the highest genetic similarity with CV-A24 reported from Northeast India, China, and Pakistan circulating during the same period. The comparison of our study sequences with earlier Indian outbreak strains (2007) revealed four amino acid substitutions at the 3C region (“S21N,” “V30I,” “S66I,” and “V75I”) and three non-synonymous mutations at the VP1 region (“L16I,” “P21S,” and “N301D”). Conclusion: The study findings revealed that the AHC outbreak was caused by genotype IV of CV-A24 in this region. Molecular identification accompanied by phylogenetic analysis will be useful in studying the enterovirus epidemiology associated with AHC outbreaks.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma are neoplasms derived from T cells and B cells and their precursors in the lymphoid system with higher susceptibility in involvement of extra-nodal sites. Predominant ureteric involvement is an unusual presentation. We present a case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with secondary involvement of ureter who had symptoms of urinary tract infection in absence of positive urine culture, non-responsive to broad spectrum antibiotics and masquerading pyogenic infection leading to pyelonephritis with ureteritis. Radiological examination revealed mass like soft tissue thickening of ureter extending from renal pelvis throughout the length of ureter. FNAC as well as biopsy from the periureteric thickening revealed lymphomatous involvement of ureter. The following case report provides insight on differentials and varied symptoms of lymphomatous involvement of ureter.

Visceral larva migrans (VLM) occurs due to migration of the second stage of larvae of nematodes through human viscera. It is an underdiagnosed entity which commonly affects the liver as eosinophilic abscesses and appears as coalescing, conglomerated cavities on imaging. This case report details the sonographic and CT features of an 8 year old female patient with right upper quadrant pain and peripheral eosinophilia on laboratory reports, diagnosed as a case of VLM on biopsy. Imaging of VLM shows overlap with neoplastic lesions and other infective pathologies hence this case aims to highlight the clinical, laboratory, and radiological features to help narrow the differential diagnosis.

Liver abscess is a common disease, however, it is a rare cause of venous thrombosis. The incidence of amoebic and pyogenic liver abscess in developing countries is high, however, the occurrence of inferior vena cava thrombosis secondary to liver abscess is a very rare and life-threatening complication. Computed tomography (CT) scan is an ideal investigation tool for diagnosing the various complications associated with liver abscess. Here we describe 3 cases of liver abscess in patients who developed a rare vascular complication of inferior vena cava. Liver abscesses should be considered as a rare cause of IVC thrombosis in the correct clinical context. All the patients were managed with ultrasound-guided pigtail insertion and antimicrobial agents.

Leriche syndrome is an aortoiliac occlusive arterial disease comprising decreased peripheral pulses, claudication, and erectile dysfunction. We present a case of a 60-year-old male with abdominal pain and hematochezia who was diagnosed with hemorrhoids. The patient also had associated leg cramps on both sides and lower limb weakness. Further evaluation of the patient with imaging revealed occlusion of the distal descending abdominal aorta below the level of renal arteries and the iliac arteries. An incidental finding of Leriche syndrome was evident. This case report contributes to the current literature when any patient with abdominal pain and bilateral lower limb weakness, Leriche syndrome should be considered to avoid complications as it has high morbidity and mortality.

Background: The risk of tuberculosis (TB) disease is higher in individuals with TB infection. In a TB endemic country like India, it is essential to understand the current burden of TB infection at the population level. The objective of the present analysis is to estimate the prevalence of TB infection in India and to explore the factors associated with TB infection. Methods: Individuals aged > 15 years in the recently completed National TB prevalence survey in India who were tested for TB infection by QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) assay were considered for this sub-analysis. TB infection was defined as positive by QFT-Plus (value >0.35 IU/ml). The estimates for prevalence, prevalence ratio (PR) and adjusted risk ratio (aRR) estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: Of the 16864 individuals analysed, the prevalence of TB infection was 22.6% (95% CI:19.4 −25.8). Factors more likely to be associated with TB infection include age > 30 years (aRR:1.49;95% CI:1.29–1.73), being male (aRR:1.26; 95%CI: 1.18–1.34), residing in urban location (aRR:1.58; 95%CI: 1.03–2.43) and past history of TB (aRR:1.49; 95%CI: 1.26–1.76). Conclusion: About one fourth (22.6%) of the individuals were infected with TB in India. Individuals aged > 30 years, males, residing in urban location, and those with past history of TB were more likely to have TB infection. Targeted interventions for prevention of TB and close monitoring are essential to reduce the burden of TB in India.

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) of the liver is an extremely rare malignant tumor of vascular origin, representing less than 1 % of all vascular tumors. Nearly 260 cases have been reported in English literature. Radiologically it is seen as multifocal lesions. It can be seen at different sites like lungs, bones, lymph nodes, breasts, and soft tissue. Often it is misdiagnosed with metastases, cholangiocarcinoma, or angiosarcoma. No definite treatment protocol is available due to its rarity, however, these malignancies are treated by radical resection of the tumor or liver transplant and/or chemotherapy. Here we present a primary hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (HEHE) which was mimicking metastases in a 42-year-old male who was treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Sadly the patient expired after 1 year of complete course of treatment. Imaging features can help to improve the diagnostic accuracy of this tumor.

Introduction: In India as per ICMR|NCDIR newly diagnosed rectal cancer cases in 20211 were 15,782. Among these new cases, more cases were registered in males (9506) than females (6276). MRI is the imaging modality of choice for staging and restaging after chemo radiotherapy. Multi-parametric MRI implies addition of multiple parameters including diffusion weighted imaging, dynamic contrast enhancement, conventional MRI and specific sequences tailored to rectal cancer. As such Dynamic contrast enhanced MRI and Diffusion weighted imaging remains an active area of ongoing research. Characterization of lymph nodes based on morphologic criteria helps in diagnosing metastatic lymph nodes. Objectives: Primary objective is to establish the role of novel MRI pulse sequences and protocols in patients with rectal cancer post-treatment (neo-adjuvant chemo-radiation). Secondary objective is to evaluate post-treatment morphological components of tumour on MRI and its correlation with treatment response. Methods: Present prospective study was conducted in the Department of Radio-diagnosis of a tertiary level care. Results: Total 40 patients were enrolled in this study. Dynamic contrast enhanced and diffusion weighted sequences gave most significant results, where the exact localization of tumour was done, however in DCE MRI and DWI MRI there were 1 (97.5%) and 2 (95%) patients respectively, showed inconclusive results in T staging after post NACRT. As per the study, conventional sequences in post NACRT patients are less sensitive in T staging due to the post NACRT fibrosis and necrosis. Conclusion: Among conventional sequences oblique axial T2 weighted imaging with minimal spacing and slice thickness along with post contrast T1 images allow the most accurate assessment of residual tumor. In novel sequences DWI and dynamic contrast imaging also shows accurate results and should be added to routine sequences if possible.

Swyer syndrome—a rare syndrome associated with complete gonadal dysgenesis—is seen in phenotypically female patients with 46-XY karyotype. They usually present with primary amenorrhea or delayed puberty. The dysgenetic gonad, which is nonfunctional, is prone to undergo malignant transformation such as dysgerminoma, gonadoblastoma, etc. Timely diagnosis helps in deciding appropriate management strategies for the patient such as hormone replacement therapy and gonadectomy. Thirty-year-old patient with a female external phenotype presented to us with complaints of primary amenorrhea. There was no similar family history of infertility, amenorrhea, abnormal external genitalia development, or cryptorchidism. On physical examination, the breast development of the patient was within normal limits for her age (Tanner stage 5), however; the axillary and pubic hair were underdeveloped (Tanner stage 2). Pelvic and inguinal ultrasound of the patient showed a hypoplastic uterus along with a cystic structure in left pelvis with no evidence of any testes like structure in inguinal region, pelvis, or abdomen. The patient was further evaluated with MRI of pelvis which confirmed the ultrasound findings of a hypoplastic uterus along with a dysplastic cystic left gonad with no evidence of any ovary or ovary-like structure/testes/testes-like structure in abdomen. Possibility of complete gonadal dysgenesis was given which was further confirmed by the hormonal assay that showed hypergonadotropic-hypogonadism with raised serum follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and a low estradiol, low testosterone, and low anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels. Serum prolactin (PRL), serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta hCG) levels were within normal range. The cytogenetic report of the patient showed a 46-XY karyotype confirming our diagnosis. The patient was advised to undergo prophylactic gonadectomy for the left gonad. Swyer syndrome is a rare disorder of sexual development which needs vigorous clinical, laboratory, and radiological evaluation. Ultrasound is the primary investigation of choice whereas MRI is used as a problem-solving tool in localizing the streak gonads. Early diagnosis is crucial in these patients since prophylactic gonadectomy reduces the risk of developing germ cell tumor.

Primary monophasic synovial sarcoma of the lung is an extremely rare malignant mesenchymal tumor that can develop at any anatomic site. Synovial sarcoma is considered a high grade tumor with a poor prognosis. Metastatic pulmonary sarcoma is much more common. Hence primary lesion elsewhere in the body needs exclusion. No clinical or radiological features are specific for pulmonary sarcoma, often it is confused with bronchogenic carcinoma. Therefore biopsy is needed to establish the diagnosis of this rare tumor. We hereby present two cases of histologically proven primary monophasic synovial sarcoma of lung. The imaging features of this rare disease is reviewed.

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of pancreas is a rare malignant neoplasm. It has been reported as case reports only, hence clinical information is limited. Here, we present a case of primary squamous cell carcinoma of pancreas in a 47-year-old female with a background history of chronic pancreatitis. Patient was treated with systemic chemotherapy; however, she did not respond to the treatment protocol. Follow-up CT scan showed increase in the size and extension of the lesion. It is an aggressive tumor and does not respond well to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Acardiac twin is a rare complication of monochorionic twin pregnancy. We present case of a 24 years-old primigravida with monochorionic pregnancy having an amorphous acardiac twin diagnosed during routine first trimester ultrasound scan. She was managed expectantly since there were no signs of hemodynamic compromise in the normal twin with close ultrasound fetal surveillance using gray scale and color Doppler ultrasound. Spontaneous regression of vascularity with reduced size of the acardiac twin was seen subsequently.

Macrodystrophia lipomatosa is a rare form of nonhereditary congenital localized gigantism involving upper and lower limbs and is characterized by overgrowth of all the mesenchymal elements predominantly fibro-adipose component, in the distribution of a particular nerve, usually median nerve. It usually presents with progressive painless overgrowth of the involved limb, toe, or digit and is associated with macrodactyly. It might cause limitation of the movement of the involved part. Imaging has an important role in diagnosing this condition and differentiating it from malignant mimics. Imaging findings include hypertrophy of the mesenchymal elements of the involved digits and/or limbs predominantly fibro adipose component with associated overgrowth of the phalanges. In this case report, we present a case of unilateral involvement of index finger and thumb with associated macrodactyly.

Polyarteritis nodosa is a necrotizing arteritis involving small and medium vessels. Polyarteritis nodosa can have variable presentations depending upon the organ involved. It can either present as a diffuse disease or a limited form confined to a particular organ. Isolated muscular involvement in this disease is rare, which may present as myalgia, nonspecific fever, weight loss or even as claudication. The imaging pattern on ultrasound and MRI can help diagnose this condition in the background of clinical history and muscle biopsy is confirmatory. We present a case of 15 years old boy who presented with fever, weight loss, myalgia in leg region. MRI and ultrasound examination showed perivascular inflammation in calf muscles with a characteristic “cotton wool” pattern of enhancement on contrast study.

Abstract Background Single coronary artery (SCA) is a rare anomaly, usually diagnosed incidentally during coronary artery angiogram. Individuals with this anomaly mostly remain asymptomatic while some present with symptoms such as chest pain, dyspnoea and even sudden death. The origin and the proximal course of anomalous coronary artery are the main prognostic factors. Several classification systems have been proposed based on the site of origin and anatomical distribution of anomalous artery. Coronary computed tomography angiography has become the reference method for such an assessment noninvasively. Herein, we report a series of two cases of SCA diagnosed on CT angiography. In one case it was single left coronary artery associated with other congenital cardiac anomalies, whereas in other it was single right coronary artery and was an isolated anomaly. Case presentation Our first case was of a 19-year-old female who presented with chest pain and dyspnoea. Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) features were suggestive of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) with infective endocarditis. Cardiac CT angiography revealed the presence of a large SCA arising from left aortic sinus with absence of normal origin of right coronary artery (RCA). This artery was dividing into and supplying different coronary arterial territories with pre-pulmonic course of RCA. The patient underwent Aortic valve replacement with pulmonary Commissurotomy and improved in post-operative period. Our second case was of a 50-year-old man with complaints of breathlessness and normal ECG and Echocardiography examination findings. Coronary CT angiography revealed the presence of SCA arising from right aortic sinus and supplying the territories of both RCA and Left coronary artery (LCA). The patient was managed conservatively with emphasis on aggressive control of risk factors. Conclusions SCA is a rare anomaly and may lead to catastrophic life threatening complications. The accurate delineation of the origin and course of the anomalous vessel is of paramount importance while planning surgical intervention. Management usually involves a multi-disciplinary approach with cardiologists and cardiac surgeons aiming for deciding an individual plan based on presentation and anatomy of each case.

Primary pancreatic lymphoma is a rare disease. It comprises less than 0.5 % of pancreatic neoplasm and 0.1% of malignant lymphoma. It should be differentiated from pancreatic adenocarcinoma because management differs. At computed tomography, 2 types of morphology of primary pancreatic lymphoma have been described- a localized well-circumscribed tumoral form and another diffuse enlargement infiltrating or replacing most of the pancreatic gland. Here, we are presenting computed tomography (CT) imaging features of a case of primary pancreatic lymphoma in a 27 year old female who presented with a complaint of abdominal pain radiating to the back for 3 months and yellowish discoloration of sclera and skin for the last 15 days. In contrast-enhanced computed tomography an exophytic homogenously hypoenhancing mass arising from head and neck region of pancreas was seen. Involvement of common bile duct (CBD) and duodenum was there. The main pancreatic duct was not dilated. Common hepatic artery was encased by mass without arterial luminal narrowing or distortion. Diagnosis of primary pancreatic lymphoma was suggested on basis of imaging findings and further confirmed with fine-needle aspiration cytology.

Orientia tsutsugamushi is responsible for causing scrub typhus (ST) and is the leading cause of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) in AES patients. A rapid and sensitive method to detect scrub typhus on-site is essential for the timely deployment of control measures. In the current study, we developed a rapid, sensitive, and instrument-free lateral flow assay (LFA) detection method based on CRISPR/Cas12a technology for diagnosing ST (named LoCIST). The method is completed in three steps: first, harnessing the ability of recombinase polymerase for isothermal amplification of the target gene; second, CRISPR/Cas12a-based recognition of the target; and third, end-point detection by LFA. The detection limit of LoCIST was found to be one gene copy of ST genomic DNA per reaction, and the process was complete within an hour. In 81 clinical samples, the assay showed no cross-reactivity with other rickettsial DNA and was 100% consistent with PCR detection of ST. LoCIST demonstrated 97.6% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Overall, the LoCIST offers a novel alternative for the portable, simple, sensitive, and specific detection of ST, and it may help prevent and control AES outbreaks due to ST. In conclusion, LoCIST does not require specialized equipment and poses a potential for future applications as a point-of-care diagnostic.

Abstract Background Mammography is the primary imaging modality for diagnosing breast cancer in women more than 40 years of age. Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), when supplemented with digital mammography (DM), is useful for increasing the sensitivity and improving BIRADS characterization by removing the overlapping effect. Ultrasonography (US), when combined with the above combination, further increases the sensitivity and diagnostic confidence. Since most of the research regarding tomosynthesis has been in screening settings, we wanted to quantify its role in diagnostic mammography. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of DM alone vs. DM combined with DBT vs. DM plus DBT and ultrasound in diagnosing malignant breast neoplasms with the gold standard being histopathology or cytology. Results A prospective study of 1228 breasts undergoing diagnostic or screening mammograms was undertaken at our institute. Patients underwent 2 views DM, single view DBT and US. BIRADS category was updated after each step. Final categorization was made with all three modalities combined and pathological correlation was done for those cases in which suspicious findings were detected, i.e. 256 cases. Diagnosis based on pathology was done for 256 cases out of which 193 (75.4%) were malignant and the rest 63 (24.6%) were benign. The diagnostic accuracy of DM alone was 81.1%. Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV and NPV were 87.8%, 60%, 81.3% and 61.1%, respectively. With DM + DBT the diagnostic accuracy was 84.8%. Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV and NPV were 92%, 56.5%, 89% and 65%, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of DM + DBT + US was found to be 85.1% and Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV and NPV were 96.3%, 50.7%, 85.7% and 82%, respectively. Conclusion The combination of DBT to DM led to higher diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and PPV. The addition of US to DM and DBT further increased the sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy and significantly increased the NPV even in diagnostic mammograms and should be introduced in routine practice for characterizing breast neoplasms.

BackgroundRecent studies on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) reveal that Omicron variant BA.1 and sub-lineages have revived the concern over resistance to antiviral drugs and vaccine-induced immunity. The present study aims to analyze the clinical profile and genome characterization of the SARS-CoV-2 variant in eastern Uttar Pradesh (UP), North India.MethodsWhole-genome sequencing (WGS) was conducted for 146 SARS-CoV-2 samples obtained from individuals who tested coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive between the period of 1 January 2022 and 24 February 2022, from three districts of eastern UP. The details regarding clinical and hospitalized status were captured through telephonic interviews after obtaining verbal informed consent. A maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree was created for evolutionary analysis using MEGA7.ResultsThe mean age of study participants was 33.9 ± 13.1 years, with 73.5% accounting for male patients. Of the 98 cases contacted by telephone, 30 (30.6%) had a travel history (domestic/international), 16 (16.3%) reported having been infected with COVID-19 in past, 79 (80.6%) had symptoms, and seven had at least one comorbidity. Most of the sequences belonged to the Omicron variant, with BA.1 (6.2%), BA.1.1 (2.7%), BA.1.1.1 (0.7%), BA.1.1.7 (5.5%), BA.1.17.2 (0.7%), BA.1.18 (0.7%), BA.2 (30.8%), BA.2.10 (50.7%), BA.2.12 (0.7%), and B.1.617.2 (1.3%) lineages. BA.1 and BA.1.1 strains possess signature spike mutations S:A67V, S:T95I, S:R346K, S:S371L, S:G446S, S:G496S, S:T547K, S:N856K, and S:L981F, and BA.2 contains S:V213G, S:T376A, and S:D405N. Notably, ins214EPE (S1- N-Terminal domain) mutation was found in a significant number of Omicron BA.1 and sub-lineages. The overall Omicron BA.2 lineage was observed in 79.5% of women and 83.2% of men.ConclusionThe current study showed a predominance of the Omicron BA.2 variant outcompeting the BA.1 over a period in eastern UP. Most of the cases had a breakthrough infection following the recommended two doses of vaccine with four in five cases being symptomatic. There is a need to further explore the immune evasion properties of the Omicron variant.

Introduction: The Computed Tomography (CT) coronary angiography is a non invasive method to evaluate coronary artery stenosis in patients presenting with cardiac symptoms. It can also be used to decide coronary artery dominance which has various clinical implications like relatively higher death rates in left dominant coronary circulation. The most common variation of left coronary artery is ramus intermedius seen in approximately 30% of cases. Aim: To find the type of coronary artery dominance in male and female patients and to look for the prevalence of ramus intermedius in patients undergoing CT angiography for coronary artery disease following cardiac symptoms and to look for predominance based on gender if any. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done on 161 patients who visited the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India from January 2020 to October 2020 for CT coronary angiography on 64 slice CT scan machine and were evaluated for the type of coronary dominance and the presence or absence of ramus intermedius. Results: Of 161 patients (108 males and 53 females), right, left and co-dominance was present in 77%, 14.9%, and 8%, respectively with no significant difference between the sexes. Ramus intermedius was present in 20.4% cases, it was found to be more in males (16.77%) compared to females (3.73%). significantly more in males (Chi-square=4.0820, p=0.0430), and co-dominance (Chi-square=6.2930, p=0.0430). Conclusion: Right dominance was found to be in a greater number of subjects as compared to left dominance and codominance with no significant difference between both the sexes. Ramus intermedius came out as a common variation and is significantly more in co-dominance.

Anterior neck masses are common and such patients commonly present to ultrasonography units for further evaluation of underlying pathology. We encountered an atypical case of pulsatile anterior neck swelling in a 45-year-old lady. Evaluation of the swelling using neck ultrasonography and color doppler study revealed that the mass was of vascular origin and contrast-enhanced computed tomography of neck confirmed the presence of an aberrant high riding innominate artery. Knowledge of such variants is of great importance and should be reported by the concerned radiologist. Lack of knowledge of such variants may lead to inadvertent surgical complications during procedures and can be life-threatening to the patient.

Background: Earlier serosurveys in India revealed seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) of 0.73% in May–June 2020 and 7.1% in August–September 2020. A third serosurvey was conducted between December 2020 and January 2021 to estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among the general population and healthcare workers (HCWs) in India. Methods: The third serosurvey was conducted in the same 70 districts as the first and second serosurveys. For each district, at least 400 individuals aged ≥10 years from the general population and 100 HCWs from subdistrict-level health facilities were enrolled. Serum samples from the general population were tested for the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S1-RBD) proteins of SARS-CoV-2, whereas serum samples from HCWs were tested for anti-S1-RBD. Weighted seroprevalence adjusted for assay characteristics was estimated. Results: Of the 28,598 serum samples from the general population, 4585 (16%) had IgG antibodies against the N protein, 6647 (23.2%) had IgG antibodies against the S1-RBD protein, and 7436 (26%) had IgG antibodies against either the N protein or the S1-RBD protein. Weighted and assay-characteristic-adjusted seroprevalence against either of the antibodies was 24.1% [95% confidence interval (CI) 23.0–25.3%]. Among 7385 HCWs, the seroprevalence of anti-S1-RBD IgG antibodies was 25.6% (95% CI 23.5–27.8%). Conclusions: Nearly one in four individuals aged ≥10 years from the general population as well as HCWs in India had been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 by December 2020.

Purpose Most of the intramedullary spinal cord lesions have a component of insidious myelopathic changes at the time of diagnosis. Among the spinal cord lesions, intramedullary neoplasms are rare (25%). They represent 4 to 10% of all central nervous system tumors. But due to involvement of tracts, they are associated with significant neurological symptoms. Their imaging features can help early diagnosis and predict prognosis. We aim to narrow down differential diagnoses of intramedullary lesions based on imaging findings. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included 40 patients as a sample that underwent magnetic resonance imaging spine at our institution (on 3T machine). Patient population had varied clinical complaints, ranging from headache, nausea, vomiting, motor weakness, bladder and bowel involvement, progressive paraparesis to paraplegia. Lesions were evaluated site, size, margin, associated cysts, signal intensity, enhancement, and associated syringohydromyelia. Results This study obtained majority of the lesions to be ependymoma (15) and astrocytoma (11), followed by infection (4), hemangioblastoma (3), and metastasis (2). Five patients were either lost to follow-up or not operated on. Conclusion Most of the intramedullary lesions were malignant and were showing postcontrast enhancement. Ependymomas were more frequently present in cervical region, central in location with well-defined margins and focal postcontrast enhancement. Among the total of 15 ependymomas, three cases were associated with neurofibromatosis-2. Ependymomas were more frequently associated with syringohydromyelia and peripheral hemorrhage (cap sign). Astrocytoma was more frequently seen in children, thoracic and eccentric in location with ill-defined margins. Enhancement in astrocytoma was dependent on the grade of tumor. Metastasis was a differential, with imaging characteristics dependent on type of primary. Intramedullary granuloma due to infection can also be confusing mimics of neoplasm. High-velocity signal loss due to flow voids is seen in the hemangioblastomas.

Objective This work aimed to study the distribution of lymph nodal metastatic pattern in carcinoma gallbladder with multidetector computed tomography (CT). Materials and Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted including 80 patients with carcinoma gallbladder who underwent triple-phase CT angiography or single-phase contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen between January 2019 and November 2019. Results In our study, 75 (93.7%) out of 80 cases showed metastasis to lymph nodes, with distribution as follows: periportal (69), peripancreatic (62), and aortocaval (47). The most common involved combination included all three lymph nodal groups (periportal, peripancreatic, and aortocaval), involving 40 (50%) cases. The combination of only periportal and peripancreatic lymph nodes was seen in 17 (21%) cases. Isolated periportal lymph nodes were seen in eight cases (10%) cases. The combination of only periportal and aortocaval lymph nodes was seen in four (5%) cases. Isolated peripancreatic lymph nodes were seen in three (3.7%) cases. The combination of periportal and aortocaval was seen in four (5%) cases followed by peripancreatic and aortocaval lymph nodes that was seen in two (2.5%) cases. Isolated aortocaval lymph nodes were seen in one (1.2%) case. Conclusion Periportal lymph nodes were the single most commonly involved station followed by peripancreatic and aortocaval lymph nodes. The combination of periportal, peripancreatic, and aortocaval lymph nodes was seen most commonly. The second most commonly involved combination was found to be periportal and peripancreatic lymph nodes followed by isolated periportal lymph nodes.

Introduction Delineation of variant anatomy in celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery including its origin and branching pattern and variations in branching pattern of hepatic artery in patients of hepatopancreaticobiliary malignancy with the use of mutidetector CT (computed tomography) angiograpgy was performed. Materials and Methods All CT examinations were performed on a 64-multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scanner. Technical features of multislice computed tomography (MSCT) are as follows: 64 mm × 1 mm collimation, minimum slice thickness of 0.625, gantry rotation time of 320 ms, 120 kV, and 320 mAs. CT angiography was performed with intravenous (IV) administration of nonionic contrast material, that is, iodixanol (Visipaque). The contrast medium and saline solution were injected with a Medrad power injector at 3 mL/sec through an 18-gauge plastic intravenous catheter placed in an antecubital vein in most of the cases. Contrast medium volumes varied between 100 and 150 mL at 1.5 mL/kg. Images were obtained in triphasic pattern at arterial (20–30 seconds), portal (60–70 seconds), and equilibrium (at 3 minutes) phases. Results Five types of celiac axis anatomic variations and nine type of variants in celiac axis branching was found in the study sample of 124 patients. Classical celiac axis anatomy was seen in 92.7% of the cases, while the five types of variation in branching were found in nine patients. Majority of cases showed pattern I (59.6%) followed by patterns V (12.1%), II (9.7%), and III (8.9%). There were three (2.4%) cases each showing pattern VIII and AA, and two (1.6%) cases each showing patterns IV and VI, respectively. There was one (0.8%) case each showing pattern VII and IX. A total of three (2.4%) cases showed right hepatic artery arising from celiac axis. Conclusion We conclude that most common pattern of celiac axis and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) branching is classical pattern (92.7%) which is in concordance with literature. Type-I pattern of hepatic artery branching was most common (59.6%), similar to that documented in literature. Although the most common variation in our study is type V (12.1%), followed by types II (9.7%) and III (8.9%), the most common variation in most of the literature was found to be type III. CT angiography hence is an excellent diagnostic modality for depiction of arterial anatomic variations and provides a roadmap for surgical treatment.

Lesions originating from parenchyma of the spinal cord present with a myriad of symptoms and signs more commonly via direct compression, followed by infiltration into the spinal parenchyma. Pain can be radicular, posterior midline, dull and aching. Rare presentations include paravertebral tightness/stiffness, and syringomyelia. Deficits were most commonly motor, followed by, sensory or bladder dysfunction [1]. Astrocytomas are second most common intramedullary tumours, and most common among paediatric age group. They are neoplasms of astrocytic origin and infiltrate into the surrounding spinal cord tissue, ill-defined margins, lack well defined capsule or cleavage plane, making them prone for incomplete resection and recurrence. They present with long multi-segment, eccentric and holocord involvement. They are associated with neurofibromatosis and cyst formation. Tumoural cysts are usually intra substance and reflect necrosis, haemorrhage, or degeneration that shows in-homogeneous signal intensity and peripheral contrast enhancement on MRI [Table/Fig-1(a-e),2(a-e)]. Canal widening with kyphoscoliosis is more frequently encountered in paediatric age group. On Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), they appear to expand the cord and are hypo to isointense on T1 weighted images, hyper intense on T2 and Short Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) images, with varying degrees of patchy enhancement [1,2]. Ependymomas are most common intramedullary tumours in adults, with predilection in cervico-thoracic segments. However, myxopapillary variant of ependymomas tends to occur more commonly in filumterminale and conusmedullaris. They are known to arise from ependymal lining of cord with central location, and extend peripherally as they grow. Rare variant of extramedullary ependymoma can initially be intramedullary and become eventually exophytic, growing out of the medulla. Ependymomas have well defined margins, and compress the cord [1,2]. Traversing vessels at the junction,get stretched and eventually bleed; giving the “cap sign” [Table/Fig-3(a-e),4(a-e)]. Non enhancing non tumoural (polar) cysts are commonly associated with ependymoma, and show Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) signal extends beyond the cranial or caudal pole of the neoplasm. Presence of syringohydromyeliais seen more consistently with ependymoma, than astrocytoma. Most of the ependymomas were T1 iso to hypointense, with hyperintensity on T2 and STIR images, and homogenous intense enhancement with persistent hypointense “cap sign”. Ependymomas tend to occur commonly in association with Neurofibromatosis 2 [2,3]. Haemangioblastomas are benign tumours of vascular origin, and show short segment involvement with prominent flow voids, usually extending along pial surface [Table/Fig-5]. They have cystic component with enhancing highly vascular nodular component. They have surrounding oedema, syrinx and association with Van HippelLindau disease. Enlarged spinal arteries may be seen, and they should be differentiated from vascular malformation [4]. Intramedullary spinal cord metastases are comparatively rare, especially in absence of known primary malignancy. Drop metastasis with CSF dissemination through the spinal cord, central canal or contiguous spread from carcinomatous meningitis [Table/Fig-6(a-d),7(a-e)]. Most common route of spread through haematogenous dissemination leading to arterial embolisation (most common primaries include carcinoma lung). Other routes include retrograde spread through Batson’s spinal venous plexus; metastatic perineural spread to the spinal cord, CSF dissemination through drop metastasis or intraspinal through perineural sheaths. Cystic change/haemorrhage are seen rarely. They show postcontrast enhancement with extensive disproportionate oedema (extensive T2 hyper intensity, which can be on average multifold larger than that of the enhancing portion of the lesion) [3]. Postcontrast complete or partial rim enhancement along margins is noted.Another rarer proposed route of spread is via penetrating vessels within the Virchow-Robin spaces penetration of the spinal cord parenchyma. Rare subtype of exophytic ependymoma [Table/Fig-8(a-d)] has similar features as ependymoma, with additional exophytic soft tissue component. Infective granulomas present with fusiform cord swelling with ill-defined iso to hyperintensity on T1WI [Table/Fig-9(a-d)]. Surrounding oedema maybe present with T2 hypointense area. Adjacent disc, soft tissue may show enhancement, depending on involvement.Varying amount of caseous necrosis and liquefaction present as central hyperintensities. An iso-hypointense rim, showing enhancement was seen surrounding a hyperintense centre [4]. [Table/Fig-10] describes the radiological findings of all the nine cases. Malignant intramedullary spinal tumours may escape early diagnosis, as patients bearing these lesions may be initially asymptomatic. With use of MRI; T1, T2 and STIR weighted images should be accessed, in atleast two different imaging planes with large field-of-view, to allow visualisation of the entire cord, and demarcate location and extent of these tumours. Haemorrhagic components should be assessed on Gradient echo images. Postcontrast images demonstrate solid enhancing tumour components and helps in differentiating tumour cysts from peritumoural cysts [5].

Uttar Pradesh is the densely populated state of India and is the sixth highest COVID-19 affected state with 22,904 deaths recorded on November 12, 2021. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is being used as a potential approach to investigate genomic evolution of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus. In this study, a total of 87 SARS-CoV-2 genomes−49 genomes from the first wave (March 2020 to February 2021) and 38 genomes from the second wave (March 2021 to July 2021) from Eastern Uttar Pradesh (E-UP) were sequenced and analyzed to understand its evolutionary pattern and variants against publicaly available sequences. The complete genome analysis of SARS-CoV-2 during the first wave in E-UP largely reported transmission of G, GR, and GH clades with specific mutations. In contrast, variants of concerns (VOCs) such as Delta (71.0%) followed by Delta AY.1 (21.05%) and Kappa (7.9%) lineages belong to G clade with prominent signature amino acids were introduced in the second wave. Signature substitution at positions S:L452R, S:P681R, and S:D614G were commonly detected in the Delta, Delta AY.1, and Kappa variants whereas S:T19R and S:T478K were confined to Delta and Delta AY.1 variants only. Vaccine breakthrough infections showed unique mutational changes at position S:D574Y in the case of the Delta variant, whereas position S:T95 was conserved among Kappa variants compared to the Wuhan isolate. During the transition from the first to second waves, a shift in the predominant clade from GH to G clade was observed. The identified spike protein mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome could be used as the potential target for vaccine and drug development to combat the effects of the COVID-19 disease.

BackgroundIndia began COVID-19 vaccination in January 2021, initially targeting healthcare and frontline workers. The vaccination strategy was expanded in a phased manner and currently covers all individuals aged 18 years and above. India experienced a severe second wave of COVID-19 during March-June 2021. We conducted a fourth nationwide serosurvey to estimate prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the general population aged ≥6 years and healthcare workers (HCWs).Methods and findingsWe did a cross-sectional study between 14 June and 6 July 2021 in the same 70 districts across 20 states and 1 union territory where 3 previous rounds of serosurveys were conducted. From each district, 10 clusters (villages in rural areas and wards in urban areas) were selected by the probability proportional to population size method. From each district, a minimum of 400 individuals aged ≥6 years from the general population (40 individuals from each cluster) and 100 HCWs from the district public health facilities were included. The serum samples were tested for the presence of IgG antibodies against S1-RBD and nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2 using chemiluminescence immunoassay. We estimated the weighted and test-adjusted seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, along with 95% CIs, based on the presence of antibodies to S1-RBD and/or nucleocapsid protein. Of the 28,975 individuals who participated in the survey, 2,892 (10%) were aged 6-9 years, 5,798 (20%) were aged 10-17 years, and 20,285 (70%) were aged ≥18 years; 15,160 (52.3%) participants were female, and 21,794 (75.2%) resided in rural areas. The weighted and test-adjusted prevalence of IgG antibodies against S1-RBD and/or nucleocapsid protein among the general population aged ≥6 years was 67.6% (95% CI 66.4% to 68.7%). Seroprevalence increased with age (p < 0.001) and was not different in rural and urban areas (p = 0.822). Compared to unvaccinated adults (62.3%, 95% CI 60.9% to 63.7%), seroprevalence was significantly higher among individuals who had received 1 vaccine dose (81.0%, 95% CI 79.6% to 82.3%, p < 0.001) and 2 vaccine doses (89.8%, 95% CI 88.4% to 91.1%, p < 0.001). The seroprevalence of IgG antibodies among 7,252 HCWs was 85.2% (95% CI 83.5% to 86.7%). Important limitations of the study include the survey design, which was aimed to estimate seroprevalence at the national level and not at a sub-national level, and the non-participation of 19% of eligible individuals in the survey.ConclusionsNearly two-thirds of individuals aged ≥6 years from the general population and 85% of HCWs had antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by June-July 2021 in India. As one-third of the population is still seronegative, it is necessary to accelerate the coverage of COVID-19 vaccination among adults and continue adherence to non-pharmaceutical interventions.

Plasma wakefield accelerators can be driven either by intense laser pulses (LWFA) or by intense particle beams (PWFA). A third approach that combines the complementary advantages of both types of plasma wakefield accelerator has been established with increasing success over the last decade and is called hybrid LWFA→PWFA. Essentially, a compact LWFA is exploited to produce an energetic, high-current electron beam as a driver for a subsequent PWFA stage, which, in turn, is exploited for phase-constant, inherently laser-synchronized, quasi-static acceleration over extended acceleration lengths. The sum is greater than its parts: the approach not only provides a compact, cost-effective alternative to linac-driven PWFA for exploitation of PWFA and its advantages for acceleration and high-brightness beam generation, but extends the parameter range accessible for PWFA and, through the added benefit of co-location of inherently synchronized laser pulses, enables high-precision pump/probing, injection, seeding and unique experimental constellations, e.g., for beam coordination and collision experiments. We report on the accelerating progress of the approach achieved in a series of collaborative experiments and discuss future prospects and potential impact.

Coronary artery calcification is an acceptable tool for cardiovascular risk assessment in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) population. We aimed to identify the association and predictive value of components of blood cell parameters with coronary and thoracic aorta vascular calcification (VC) in ESRD population on dialysis. All ESRD patients receiving hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis aged between 18 and 60 years were included in the study. Exclusion criteria comprised patients with active infection or inflammatory disease, autoimmune disease, congestive heart failure, angina pectoris and/or documented coronary artery disease, thyroid disease, and hepatic dysfunction. Agatston scoring was used for the evaluation of coronary aorta calcification (CAC) score (CACS) and thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) score (TACS). Compared to participants with no VC, those who had VC were statistically significantly older (P

Clinical limitations and drug-resistance are the basis of the search for new antifungal therapeutics against biofilm forming pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Cis-9-hexadecenal is a natural compound present in various plants extracts, but its antifungal activity against A. fumigatus is still unexplored. The aim of present study was to evaluate the antifungal efficacy of cis-9-hexadecenal on A. fumigatus, specifically its biofilm and to assess its cytotoxicity. Broth micro-dilution method revealed that cis-9- hexadecenal inhibited 90% of planktonic growth of A. fumigatus at 0.078 mg/ml. In-vitro combinatorial effect between drug amphotericin B and cis-9-hexadecenal was studied by checkerboard assay. Cis9-hexadecenal, in combination to amphotericin-B had additive effect and showed enhanced drug efficacy against A. fumigatus. The effect of cis-9-hexadecenal on pre-formed biofilm was analyzed through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and scanning electron microscopy. In MTT assay, minimum biofilm-eradicating concentration-80 of cis-9-hexadecenal was 0.156 mg/ml. Scanning electron micrograph showed absence of extracellular matrix and tangled hyphae in cis-9-hexadecenal treated biofilm whereas these structures were present in both untreated and amphotericin-B treated biofilm. Drug-likeness was predicted through in-silico ADMET studies. The study envisaged that cis-9-hexadecenal followed Lipinski’s rule but had a higher Log P value indicating that it’s not hydrophilic. The compound can be modified to enhance the absorption and permeation. Cell cytotoxicity study exhibited that cis-9-hexadecenal was not toxic to normal human lung epithelial cell line L-132 upto 0.62 mg/ml. The study concluded that cis-9-hexadecenal might be explored further as a potential therapeutic molecule for A. fumigatus associated diseases.

Bacteria employ numerous resistance mechanisms against structurally distinct drugs by the process of multidrug resistance. A study was planned to discover the antibacterial potential of a graphene oxide nanosheet (GO), a graphene oxide–zinc oxide nanocomposite (GO/ZnO), a graphene oxide-chitosan nanocomposite (GO–CS), a zinc oxide decorated graphene oxide–chitosan nanocomposite (GO–CS/ZnO), and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO) alone and in a blend with antibiotics against a PS-2 isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These nanocomposites reduced the MIC of tetracycline (TET) from 16 folds to 64 folds against a multidrug-resistant clinical isolate. Efflux pumps were interfered, as evident by an ethidium bromide synergy study with nanocomposites, as well as inhibiting biofilm synthesis. These nanoparticles/nanocomposites also decreased the mutant prevention concentration (MPC) of TET. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on nanomaterials as a synergistic agent via inhibition of efflux and biofilm synthesis.

Recent progress in plasma based accelerator technology has demonstrated its ability to deliver high energy (GeV) beams in compact structures (centimeter to meter scale plasmas). Current developments of that technology are oriented toward producing beams with quality and energy spread comparable to those obtained using standard accelerating structures. In plasma based accelerators, the beam energy spread can be improved during the acceleration process through beam loading. To achieve optimum beam loading, the beam has to be shaped such that the superposition of its space charge fields and plasma fields result in a uniform accelerating field. In this work we show how beam-induced-ionization injection can be used to shape and inject a trailing beam suitable for beam loading. Our particle-in-cell numerical simulations done with OSIRIS show the ionization injection of a shaped 340 pC, 13 kA and 3 μm long electron beam accelerated to 900 MeV in less than 3 cm of plasma. The configurations considered numerically were based on the beams and plasmas that have been and will be available at the FACET facility.

A detailed analytical theory is developed for studying the phenomenon of generation of high amplitude wakefield using a seed laser pulse and another coaxially propagating, trailing pulse. The two laser pulses are separated by a fixed distance between them and have the same polarization, frequency, length, intensity, and profile. The study shows that the maximum energy gained by the test electron significantly depends upon the distance between the two pulses. Phase space analysis shows that a test electron of significantly lower energy, injected behind the trailing laser pulse, will be trapped and accelerated to higher energy as compared to the single pulse case.

A detailed analytical study of plasma wakefield generation in a wide parabolic plasma channel is reported. A perturbative technique involving orders of the incident laser beam and the effects of inhomogeneity of the plasma density is used to obtain explicit electric as well as magnetic wakefields. The axial and transverse forces acting on a test electron due to the wakefields have been evaluated.