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Abstract Tilletia indica Mitra causes Karnal bunt (KB) in wheat by pathogenic dikaryophase. The present study is the first to provide the draft genomes of the dikaryon (PSWKBGD-3) and its two monosporidial lines (PSWKBGH-1 and 2) using Illumina and PacBio reads, their annotation and the comparative analyses among the three genomes by extracting polymorphic SSR markers. The trancriptome from infected wheat grains of the susceptible wheat cultivar WL711 at 24 h, 48h, and 7d after inoculation of PSWKBGH-1, 2 and PSWKBGD-3 were also isolated. Further, two transcriptome analyses were performed utilizing T. indica transcriptome to extract dikaryon genes responsible for pathogenesis, and wheat transcriptome to extract wheat genes affected by dikaryon involved in plant-pathogen interaction during progression of KB in wheat. A total of 54, 529, and 87 genes at 24hai, 48hai, and 7dai, respectively were upregulated in dikaryon stage while 21, 35, and 134 genes of T. indica at 24hai, 48hai, and 7dai, respectively, were activated only in dikaryon stage. While, a total of 23, 17, and 52 wheat genes at 24hai, 48hai, and 7dai, respectively were upregulated due to the presence of dikaryon stage only. The results obtained during this study have been compiled in a web resource called TiGeR ( http://backlin.cabgrid.res.in/tiger/ ), which is the first genomic resource for T. indica cataloguing genes, genomic and polymorphic SSRs of the three T. indica lines, wheat and T. indica DEGs as well as wheat genes affected by T. indica dikaryon along with the pathogenecity related proteins of T. indica dikaryon during incidence of KB at different time points. The present study would be helpful to understand the role of dikaryon in plant-pathogen interaction during progression of KB, which would be helpful to manage KB in wheat, and to develop KB-resistant wheat varieties.

Let R be a commutative ring with unity. The prime ideal sum graph [Formula: see text] of the ring R is the simple undirected graph whose vertex set is the set of all nonzero proper ideals of R and two distinct vertices I and J are adjacent if and only if I + J is a prime ideal of R. In this paper, we study some interplay between algebraic properties of rings and graph-theoretic properties of their prime ideal sum graphs. In this connection, we classify non-local commutative Artinian rings R such that [Formula: see text] is of crosscap at most two. We prove that there does not exist a non-local commutative Artinian ring whose prime ideal sum graph is projective planar. Further, we classify non-local commutative Artinian rings of genus one prime ideal sum graphs.

Background: Upconverting nanophosphors (UCNPs) are composed of certain nanosized inorganic host materials doped with specific rare earth ions. They exhibit the phenomenon of photon upconversion, whereby the sequential absorption of two or more low energy photons is followed by luminescent emission of multiple photons with higher energy. In addition, they have other attractive optical features such as NIR-absorption, sharp emission bands, exceptional photostability and high quantum yield. These properties make UCNPs lucrative probes for number of optical applications, such as imaging, sensing and theranostics. Overview: UCNPs have been used as specific and ultrasensitive probes for sensing of variety of analytes, such as gas molecules, metal ions, fine particles, pH and a number of molecules, biochemicals and macromolecules. Their absorption and emission in the NIR range facilitates the background free biosensing in situ, in vitro and in vivo. Their multicoloured emissions allow a suitable emission band to serve as a donor for energy transfer to another attached optical probe, while a separate emission band to serve as an internal reference in ratiometric sensing applications. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth exploration of the versatile applications of UCNPs in the optical sensing of various analytes based on energy transfer mechanisms, with emphasis on the recent developments. . The focus is on synthesizing UCNPs, surface functionalization, and their effective utilization especially in detecting gas molecules, pH changes, ions, free radicals, and disease biomarkers. Through a meticulous examination of the use of UCNPs, this review aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of their potential and pave the way for future advancements and challenges in optical sensing.

Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare neurodegenerative spongiform encephalopathy that causes neuronal derangement secondary to prion protein. Its initial diagnosis is often complex and challenging due to non-specific clinical presentation, lack of awareness, and low clinical suspicion. This disease is invariably fatal, and most patients die within 12 months of presentation. Definite diagnosis of prion disease requires neuropathological analysis, usually done at autopsy. Here, we present the autopsy findings of a 57-year-old male patient, illustrating the complexity of diagnosing this disease early in the clinical course and the need for a broad differential diagnosis at the onset.

Abstract India in today’s scenario is implementing an agroecologically based, diversified agricultural system that includes functional biodiversity along with crops, trees and livestock. Therefore, advocating natural farming, an agroecologically based diverse farming system that includes crops, trees and animals as well as functional biodiversity. It is primarily focused on the recycling of biomass inside the farm, with a focus on the use of formulations made on the farm from cow dung and urine (Jeevamrit & Ghanjeevamrit) and the elimination of all synthetic chemical inputs. It aims to lessen smallholder farmers' reliance on inputs that must be purchased as well as their credit load. With all of these facts in mind, this study investigated how the application of bioorganic nutrient sources like Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit used in natural farming system affected the crop performance in strawberry grown under mid hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh, India. Farmyard manure, freshly prepared Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit was used for manuring in twelve different treatment combinations replicated thrice planned on the basis of recommended dose of nitrogen. The nitrogen content in bioorganic nutrient sources like Jeevamrit (1.71%) and Ghanjeevamrit (1.68%) was analyzed before application. Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit treatments significantly increased plant growth, flowering, fruit yield and fruit quality. The findings indicated that application of treatment combination T4 (100% RDN through Jeevamrit + Ghanjeevamrit in the ratio of 1:1) resulted in better effects on strawberry plant growth, fruit quality and yield (17.50 tonnes/ha) as compared to the recommended practices.

The environmental impact of dyes, particularly those utilized in the pharmaceutical and textile industries, has been a growing concern due to their persistence and potential harm to ecosystems. Methylene Blue (MB) dye is one of the commonly used synthetic dyes known for its adverse effects on the environment. Thus a promising catalyst is required for the effective degradation of MB dye. To effectively degrade MB, we have synthesized Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) in this work using the co-precipitation technique. These nanoparticles showed the peroxidase like behavior by degrading hydrogen peroxide and generating ROS (reactive oxygen species) under visible light exposure, which oxidized MB leads to its degradation. This degradation process was investigated under various experimental conditions, including pH, catalyst dosage, and peroxide concentration. The results demonstrated that PBNPs exhibited remarkable catalytic activity and completely degrade the MB within 50 min under visible light. The degradation efficiency was found to be pH-dependent and optimum efficiency was found in pH range from 5 to 7. The kinetic studies were shown that this MB degradation process follows the first order kinetic models with the rate constant value 0.038 s − 1, suggesting that the degradation process follows Fenton mechanism. The recyclability and stability of the PBNPs as a catalyst were also assessed, which showed that it can be used up to four cycles, demonstrating their potential for practical applications in dye wastewater treatment.

AbstractLet R be a ring with unity. The upper ideal relation graph [Formula: see text] of the ring R is the simple undirected graph whose vertex set is the set of all non-unit elements of R and two distinct vertices x, y are adjacent if and only if there exists a non-unit element [Formula: see text] such that the ideals (x) and (y) contained in the ideal (z). In this article, we obtain the girth, minimum degree and the independence number of [Formula: see text]. We obtain a necessary and sufficient condition on R, in terms of the cardinality of their principal ideals, such that the graph [Formula: see text] is planar and outerplanar, respectively. For a non-local commutative ring [Formula: see text], where Ri is a local ring with maximal ideal [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], we prove that the graph [Formula: see text] is perfect if and only if [Formula: see text] and each [Formula: see text] is a principal ideal. We also discuss all the finite rings R such that the graph [Formula: see text] is Eulerian. Moreover, we obtain the metric dimension and strong metric dimension of [Formula: see text], when R is a reduced ring. Finally, we determine the vertex connectivity, automorphism group, Laplacian and the normalized Laplacian spectrum of [Formula: see text]. We classify all the values of n for which the graph [Formula: see text] is Hamiltonian.

Lipids stored in lipid-bodies (LBs) in host cells are potential sources of fatty acids for pathogens. However, the mechanism of recruitment of LBs from the host cells by pathogens to acquire fatty acids is not known. Here, we have found that Leishmania specifically upregulates the expression of host Rab18 and its GEF, TRAPPC9 by downregulating the expression of miR-1914-3p by reducing the level of Dicer in macrophages via their metalloprotease gp63. Our results also show that miR-1914-3p negatively regulates the expression of Rab18 and its GEF in cells. Subsequently, Leishmania containing parasitophorous vacuoles (Ld-PVs) recruit and retain host Rab18 and TRAPPC9. Leishmania infection also induces LB biogenesis in host cells and recruits LBs on Ld-PVs and acquires FLC12-labeled fatty acids from LBs. Moreover, overexpression of miR-1914-3p in macrophages significantly inhibits the recruitment of LBs and thereby suppresses the multiplication of parasites in macrophages as parasites are unable to acquire fatty acids. These results demonstrate a novel mechanism how Leishmania acquire fatty acids from LBs for their growth in macrophages.

The Upper Assam Basin is an intermontane foreland basin surrounded by gigantic mountain belts in NE India. The structural geometry of the basin is controlled by the tectonic interactions of the Himalayan orogenic belt in the north, Mishmi thrusts in the east, and the Assam-Arakan fold-and-thrust belts in the south. The basin has received significant attention not only because of its complex geological set-up but also due to its petroliferous nature for hosting significant hydrocarbon resources. The present study attempts to explore the tectonic subsidence history of the Cenozoic succession using subsurface stratigraphic details of ten (10) boreholes drilled within the upper shelf of the basin. Subsidence analysis is carried out using the backstripping technique. It is observed that the tectonic subsidence in the basin developed through four different stages. During the Paleocene-Eocene epoch, the basin witnessed slow subsidence. It increased gradually through Oligocene and attained rapid speed in the Miocene. Further, during the deposition of post-Miocene sediments (Plio-Pleistocene epoch), the tectonic subsidence in the basin remained accelerated. Subsidence curves obtained from the studied borehole depict a convex-upward profile, indicating that the basin attained a foreland configuration over time and is presently a SE dipping shelf bounded by opposite verging fold-and-thrust belts. Overall, the basin experienced tectonic subsidence of ∼2 km throughout its lifespan with an average subsidence rate of ∼30 m/Ma. This case study prominently elucidates the tectonic history of the basin, which underwent during the Cenozoic time. Our findings stress the importance of subsidence analysis through the backstripping technique as a potential approach for untangling the geohistory of sedimentary basins worldwide.

Application of water directly to the root zone through micro-irrigation system can reduce the water, fertilizer and labour requirements by improving their availability and use-efficiency. An experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Regional Research Station, Bawal, Haryana to study the relative performance of drip irrigation in comparison to conventional methods of irrigation in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.]. The experiment consisted 7 treatments, viz. two irrigations through flooding (as per state recommendation) at flowering and siliqua formation stage; two irrigations through sprinkler at flowering and siliqua formation stage; three irrigations through sprinkler at flowering, siliqua formation and seed development stage; and 6, 8, 10 and 12 split irrigations were applied from 30 days after sowing (DAS) through drip at 12, 9, 7 and 6 days interval, respectively. Volume of irrigation water under each treatment was same as under recommended practice of two flood irrigations (120 mm). Irrigation applied through drip at 6 days interval in 12 splits and at 7 days interval in 10 splits produced statistically similar seed yield to each other (22.51 and 21.94 q/ha, respectively) and significantly higher than recommended irrigation practice (18.92 q/ha) and sprinkler method of irrigation (18.62 and 19.32 q/ha) during 2019–20. The irrigation through drip in 12 splits (10 mm each) at an interval of 6 days between 30 to100 days after sowing also recorded the highest irrigation water-use efficiency (IWUE) (188 and 181 kg/ha-cm in 2019–20 and 2020–21, respectively). Based on these findings, it can be suggested to apply irrigation in Indian mustard through drip in 12 splits (10 mm depth each) at an interval of 6 days between 30 to100 DAS to get higher yield and water use efficiency.

In search of selective carbonic anhydrase (CA) IX inhibitors endowed with apoptotic inducing properties, we designed and synthesised two subsets of 4- and 3-(5-aryl-(4-phenylsulphonyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)benzenesulphonamides. All compounds were assayed for human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) isoforms I, II, IV, and IX inhibition. Isoforms hCA I and hCA IV were weakly inhibited by most of the synthesised compounds. Many four-substituted benzenesulphonamides displayed low nanomolar inhibition against isoform hCA II, unlike the three-substituted analogues. All target compounds exhibited good inhibition profile with KI values ranging from 16.4 to 66.0 nM against tumour-associated isoform hCA IX. Some selective and potent inhibitors of hCA IX were assayed for in vitro apoptotic induction in goat testicular cells. Compounds 10d and 10h showed interesting apoptotic induction potential. The present study may provide insights into a strategy for the design of novel anticancer agents based on hCA inhibitors endowed with apoptotic interference.

AbstractLet R be a ring with unity. The cozero-divisor graph of a ring R, denoted by [Formula: see text] is an undirected simple graph whose vertices are the set of all non-zero and non-unit elements of R, and two distinct vertices x and y are adjacent if and only if [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] In this paper, first we study the Laplacian spectrum of [Formula: see text] We show that the graph [Formula: see text] is Laplacian integral. Further, we obtain the Laplacian spectrum of [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] and p, q are distinct primes. In order to study the Laplacian spectral radius and algebraic connectivity of [Formula: see text] we characterized the values of n for which the Laplacian spectral radius is equal to the order of [Formula: see text] Moreover, the values of n for which the algebraic connectivity and vertex connectivity of [Formula: see text] coincide are also described. At the final part of this paper, we obtain the Wiener index of [Formula: see text] for arbitrary n.

Background: Diabetes mellitus and thyroid illnesses are the two endocrine conditions that are seen in clinical practice the most frequently. Patients frequently have a tendency to suffer from both diabetes mellitus and thyroid dysfunction at the same time. This article illustrates why it is important to recognize the interdependent relationship that exists between thyroid illness and diabetes. Method: Present study was conducted among 193 T2DM patients. Patients’ last three month glucose level was measured by HBA1c and thyroid dysfunction evaluated by thyroid profiling. Association and prediction of different variables for developing thyroid dysfunction among diabetic patients was calculated using chi-square, t test and ROC curve. Result: Out of 193, 47 patients had thyroid dysfunction, majority 22(11.4%) had subclinical hypothyroidism. 13(6.7%) had Hypothyroidism, 6(3.1%) had subclinical Hyperthyroidism, 3(1.5%) had Hyperthyroidism and 3(1.5%) patients were euthyroid. The prevalence of established thyroid disease was higher in females 32 (68.1%). Out of 47 patients with thyroid dysfunction, 39(82.9%) patients had HBA1C >6.5%. Conclusion: Age >50 years and female gender played as risk factor for developing thyroid dysfunction among patients with T2DM. HBA1C >6.5% and TSH more than 3.65mIU/L was independent risk factor for predicting thyroid dysfunction in T2DM.

Exhumation is authorised digging out of already buried body from his legitimate graveyard. The autopsy in exhumed dead body require extreme attention and thorough examination of the corpse to determine the exact cause and manner of death. Exhumation also helps to evaluate and rule out any disease responsible for death. In the present case, authors discuss and report an unusual case of decomposed young adult male of 24-year-old, who was killed/stabbed by his younger brother. Body of deceased was buried by the perpetrator of crime without police information and medicolegal autopsy. The stab wound was altered by accused to misguide or create confusion in identifying the type of injury and weapon of offence. Later, this scenario was solved by autopsy surgeons after visiting incident scene, complete postmortem examination of the corpse and examinations of belongings.

Cancer is a severe health issue, and cancer cases are rising yearly. New anticancer drugs have been developed as our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind diverse solid tumors, and metastatic malignancies have increased. Plant-derived phytochemical compounds target different oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, protein channels, immune cells, protein channels, and pumps, which have attracted much attention for treating cancer in preclinical studies. Despite the anticancer capabilities of these phytochemical compounds, systemic toxicity, medication resistance, and limited absorption remain more significant obstacles in clinical trials. Therefore, drug combinations of new phytochemical compounds, phytonanomedicine, semi-synthetic, and synthetic analogs should be considered to supplement the existing cancer therapies. It is also crucial to consider different strategies for increased production of phytochemical bioactive substances. The primary goal of this review is to highlight several bioactive anticancer phytochemical compounds found in plants, preclinical research, their synthetic and semi-synthetic analogs, and clinical trials. Additionally, biotechnological and metabolic engineering strategies are explored to enhance the production of bioactive phytochemical compounds. Ligands and their interactions with their putative targets are also explored through molecular docking studies. Therefore, emphasis is given to gathering comprehensive data regarding modern biotechnology, metabolic engineering, molecular biology, and in silico tools.

Background and Study Aim. The objective of the study was to perform a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis to determine the validity of running-based sprint test in relation to 30 second Wingate anaerobic test. Material and Methods. A search of the relevant literature was done using the key words, ‘running-based anaerobic sprint test’, ‘RAST’, ‘Validity’ ‘repeated sprint’ and ‘Wingate’. Twelve studies including 368 participants were finalized to systematic review and meta-analysis. The mean ± standard deviation of the number of participants was 30.66 ± 16.17 years. Results. The summary of effects size were calculated to established the validity of running based sprint test (RAST) with 30 seconds Wingate test as a criterion measure. All studies indicate that effect size of Peak Power (PP) shows higher summary effects 0.58 (95%CI – 0.37, 0.79), similar outputs were observed for Mean Power (MP) 0.67 (95%CI – 0.45, 0.90). Therefore, the average outcomes were significantly different from zero. Conclusions. Running-based anaerobic sprint test is a valid alternative method of 30 seconds Wingate test to measure anaerobic power outputs of healthy individual belongs to various sports disciplines. Although, anaerobic capacity or power output is a determinant factor in power dominating sports. Therefore, RAST is compatible to laboratory-based Wingate 30 second anaerobic test (WAnT) in field-based settings.

Environmental pollution has harmful effects on human health, particularly the respiratory system. We aimed to study the impact of daily ambient air pollution on daily emergency room visits for acute respiratory symptoms. This study was conducted in two tertiary respiratory care centres in Delhi, India. Daily counts of emergency room visits were collected. All patients attending the emergency room were screened for acute onset (less than 2 weeks) of respiratory symptoms and were recruited if they were staying in Delhi continuously for at least 4 weeks and having onset (≤2 weeks) of respiratory symptoms. Daily average air pollution data for the study period was obtained from four continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations. A total of 61,285 patients were screened and 11,424 were enrolled from June 2017 to February 2019. Cough and difficulty in breathing were most common respiratory symptoms. Poor air quality was observed during the months of October to December. Emergency room visits with acute respiratory symptoms significantly increased per standard deviation increase in PM10 from lag days 2-7. Increase in wheezing was primarily seen with increase in NO2. Pollutant levels have effect on acute respiratory symptoms and thus influence emergency room visits. *************************************************************** *Appendix Authors list Kamal Singhal1, Kana Ram Jat2, Karan Madan3, Mohan P George4, Kalaivani Mani5, Randeep Guleria3, Ravindra Mohan Pandey5, Rupinder Singh Dhaliwal6, Rakesh Lodha2, Varinder Singh1 1Department of Paediatrics, Lady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India 2Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India 3Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Disorders, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India 4Department of Environment, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Kashmere Gate, New Delhi, India 5Department of Biostatistics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India 6Department of Non-communicable Diseases, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India

Abstract Background and aim Globally, the ongoing pursuit in exploring an effective drug to combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has not met with significant success to date. Indian traditional medicines, especially polyherbal formulations like Nilavembu Kudineer (NVK) and Kaba Sura Kudineer (KSK) of the Siddha system of medicine, have been used as public health interventions for controlling viral epidemics like dengue and Chikungunya. These traditional therapies have been found safe, effective, and widely accepted. The current study evaluates the comparative efficacy of NVK and KSK as opposed to the placebo, in the management of mild to moderate COVID-19 disease. Methods The study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled comparative clinical trial, with the primary objective of determining the efficacy of KSK and NVK. Patients (n=125) diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms were enrolled in the study over a period of 4 months (Aug 2020—Dec 2020). Participants were randomized into 3 arms; placebo-decaffeinated tea in Arm I, NVK in Arm II, and KSK in Arm III. Each arm received 60 ml of the respective treatment twice a day, post morning and evening meals, along with standard allopathy treatment for a maximum of 10 days. The main outcome measures of the study were the reduction in SARS-CoV-2 viral load, hospital stay, and time taken by the patients to become asymptomatic from symptomatic. Efficacy assessments included clinical symptoms (fever, cough, and breathlessness) each day and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), liver function test (LFT), renal function test (RFT), and electrolytes and electrocardiogram (ECG) at baseline (day 0) and days 3, 6, and 10. Post-treatment, participants were followed up for 30 days via phone for adverse effects if any. Effects of drugs on inflammatory markers (IL6) at the end of treatment were also recorded. Adverse events (AE) were monitored throughout the study. Results The results revealed that when compared to patients in the placebo arm, those in NVK and KSK arms showed a statistically significant reduction in hospital stay time, reduction in viral load of SARS-CoV-2, and the time taken to become symptomatic from asymptomatic. Out of 125 COVID-19 patients recruited, 120 completed the study; two from the placebo group developed severe symptoms and were shifted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and three patients from Arms II and III withdrew from the study. The mean age of females (n=60) and males (n=60) enrolled was between 40.2 and 44.3 years, respectively. Results were more promising for all the patients in NVK and KSK arms as all enrolled participants (100%) under this group got discharged by day 6 as compared to only 42.5% (n=17) from the placebo group on that day. The hospital stay time for patients in Arm I was significantly longer (mean [SD]=8.4 [2.0] days) as compared to the Arms II and III (mean [SD]=4.7 [1.5] and 4.2 [1.5] days, respectively (Kruskal-Wallis test, P=0.0001). Patients in the three groups took a significantly different number of days to become asymptomatic. While Arm II and III patients took mean of 2.5 and 1.7 days, respectively, Arm I, patients took a mean of 4.2 days (Kruskal-Wallis test, P=0.0001). In all, two adverse events were recorded, one for vomiting and one for diarrhea lasting a day in Arm I and Arm II, respectively. The mean value of interleukin-6 (IL6) was significantly different in comparison to the placebo-decaffeinated tea arm (NVK=2.6 and KSK=2.2, placebo=4.0, P=0.02). The other blood biochemical parameters like C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ferritin, and D-dimer that were analyzed at the baseline and at the time of discharge from the hospital, were not significantly different in the three arms. Conclusion NVK and KSK arms showed a statistically significant reduction in hospital stay time, reduction in viral load of SARS-CoV-2, and time taken for patients to become asymptomatic from symptomatic, when compared to the placebo (decaffeinated tea). The primary outcome measures of the KSK arm were significantly better than those in the NVK arm.

Cooling of quartz-SAW devices leads to a noticeable increase in sensitivity. However, the effect of heating on the output characteristics of quartz-SAW resonators in terms of sensitivity has not yet been studied. Here we examine the inverse parabolic temperature characteristics of a quartz-SAW resonator in order to study the effect of temperature rise on the sensitivity. Various characteristics of a quartz SAW resonator are measured such as frequency shifts, phase, and group delay by Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) over a temperature range of 5 °C to 150 °C. It is shown that the sensitivity could be increased at certain combinations when the operating frequency (fo) is tuned away from the centre frequency (fc) along with temperatures higher or lower than room temperature. Sensitivity increases up to 24-fold was achieved when T > 120 °C and fo > fc. This study of temperature tuning of SAW device will be useful for enhancing the sensitivity in various SAW sensing applications for various industrial purposes.

Lead (Pb2+) ions are considered as one of the primary environmental pollutants and have a profound effect on human health. In this work, we have developed a hybrid organic–inorganic optical nanochemosensor for selective and ultrasensitive detection of Pb2+ ions based on energy transfer (ET), involving a Pb2+ sensitive rhodamine-derived named (E)-4-(((3′,6′-bis(diethylamino)-3-oxospiro[isoindoline-1,9′-xanthen]-2-yl)imino)methyl)benzaldehyde represented as RBDA, covalently linked with silica coated upconverting nanophosphors (UCNPs). The UCNPs emit visible light after being excited by NIR light, activating the Pb2+ coordinated RBDA (fluorescent probe). When Pb2+ ions were added, a yellow emission band at about 588 nm formed in upconverting photoluminescence spectra, whereas the strength of green emission at about 542 nm reduced upon excitation of 980 nm laser, indicating the energy transfer from UCNP to RBDA-Pb2+ complex. The concentration of Pb2+ ions directly affects how well the probe reabsorbs the green emission of the nanophosphor, thus enabling the ratiometric chemosensing. With a detection limit of 20 nM in aqueous, the resulting ET-based nochemosensor can also preferentially detect Pb2+ despite the presence of other ions. Owing to the minimal autofluorescence and the great penetration depth of NIR light and special optical features of UCNPs, this is a promising approach for sensitive and in-depth detection of Pb2+ ions in a complex ecological and biological specimen.

Abstract The PDZ domain of Dishevelled 3 protein belongs to a highly abundant protein recognition motif which typically binds short C-terminal peptides. The affinity of the PDZ towards the peptides could be fine-tuned by a variety of post-translation modifications including phosphorylation. However, how phosphorylations affect the PDZ structure and its interactions with ligands remains elusive. Combining molecular dynamics simulations, NMR titration, and biological experiments, we explored the role of previously reported phosphorylation sites and their mimetics in the Dishevelled PDZ domain. Our observations suggest three major roles for phosphorylations: (1) acting as an on/off PDZ binding switch, (2) allosterically affecting the binding groove, and (3) influencing the secondary binding site. Our simulations indicated that mimetics had similar but weaker effects, and the effects of distinct sites were non-additive. This study provides insight into the Dishevelled regulation by PDZ phosphorylation. Furthermore, the observed effects could be used to elucidate the regulation mechanisms in other PDZ domains.

Background: Vascular malformation of lower lip is a very rare anomaly. The lesion leads to facial asymmetry, difficulty in speech and eating and drooling of saliva. Treatment goals include symmetrical reconstruction of the lip with minimal scarring, provide adequate bulk for the reconstruction of vermillion, in toto removal of the lesion and prevent recurrence. The most common complication during surgical removal of these lesions includes blood loss and profuse bleeding which leads to poor visibility, increased operation time and postoperative requirement of blood transfusion. Therefore, the use of sclerosing agent is recommended before surgical removal. This may help in decreasing bleeding during surgery but not in all cases. Case Report: Here, we report the use of Foley's catheter for the management of a high flow lesion of lower lip in a 12-year-old patient diagnosed with Mowat-Wilson syndrome. This technique helped in providing bloodless field which lead to minimal blood loss and good visibility intraoperatively.

First described by Broca in 1886, Ameloblastoma is one of the most frequently encountered epithelial odontogenic benign tumour. The literature reports Mandible as the utmost favourable area of this tumour with approximately 80% of the cases involving this area. Histologically, an ameloblastoma can have six variations i.e, follicular, plexiform, basal, granular, desmoplastic and/or acanthomatous form. According to the 2005 World Health Organisation (WHO) classification the incidence of acanthomatous ameloblastoma is 7.06%. The acanthomatous type of ameloblastoma is deemed to be a rare and uncommon variation that mostly involves the mandible in 81% of the cases and maxilla in only 19% of the cases. In the maxilla, it is most commonly seen in the molar area, antral area and nasal floor with reported rate of occurrence being 47%, 33% and 9% respectively. The incidence in the canine are is only 9%. On the basis of previous studies, acanthomatous ameloblastoma is usually found in the geriatric population than in younger ones and is considered as an aggressive variant of ameloblastoma. Authors hereby present a case of acanthomatous ameloblastoma occurring in the anterior maxilla in a 36-year-old male patient presenting with painless swelling involving the left side of the anterior upper jaw managed with a conservative type of treatment. This type of presentation of the already rare acanthomatous ameloblastoma is extremely sporadic. Also, the occurrence of such a tumour in maxilla can significantly affect the progression and prognosis of such tumours because of the anatomical and histopathological differences in the maxilla and mandible and their densities, thereby further influencing the management and follow-up.

Orocutaneous lesions of odontogenic origin are rare, and sometimes, they can mimic as dermatological lesions. They are usually misdiagnosed, and as a result, the treatment is delayed leading to the chronicity of the lesion and enlargement of the fistula and bone loss. These cases require multispecialty consultation for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here, we report a case series of orocutaneous fistulae, due to misdiagnosis, the treatment rendered was improper, leading to enlargement of the lesion along with bony defect and loss of tooth.

Ruthenium (Ru) Dimethylsulphoxide complexes have appeared as a prominent compound among the potential metal-based drug for the cure of cancer. Cancer is marked with the uncontrolled proliferative activity that can be treated with apoptosis inducers. Therefore, in the present study the potentials of ruthenium complexes as an inducer of apoptosis evaluated through appropriate techniques. Two ruthenium (Ru) complexes of composition [Ru II(PyS)2(DMSO)2] (C1) and [RuII(mbtz)2(DMSO)2] (C2) with co-ligands (PySH: 2-mercatopyridine and mbtzH: 2- mercaptobenzothiazole) have been synthesized and examined for their apoptosis inducing activity in ovarian granulosa cells. The biological assays revealed that both the complexes induce various histomorphological, cytotoxic and genotoxic alterations characteristic of apoptosis, within granulosa cells of ovarian antral follicles. Thus suggesting the anti-apoptotic and anti-cancerous activity of ruthenium (Ru) based complexes within granulosa cells of ovarian antral follicles. To the best of our knowledge such studies are scare.

Abstract Background Dishevelled (DVL) is an essential component of the Wnt signaling cascades. Function of DVL is controlled by phosphorylation but the molecular details are missing. DVL3 contains 131 serines and threonines whose phosphorylation generates complex barcodes underlying diverse DVL3 functions. In order to dissect the role of DVL phosphorylation we analyzed the phosphorylation of human DVL3 induced by previously reported (CK1ε, NEK2, PLK1, CK2α, RIPK4, PKCδ) and newly identified (TTBK2, Aurora A) DVL kinases. Methods Shotgun proteomics including TiO2 enrichment of phosphorylated peptides followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry on immunoprecipitates from HEK293T cells was used to identify and quantify phosphorylation of DVL3 protein induced by 8 kinases. Functional characterization was performed by in-cell analysis of phospho-mimicking/non-phosphorylatable DVL3 mutants and supported by FRET assays and NMR spectroscopy. Results We used quantitative mass spectrometry and calculated site occupancies and quantified phosphorylation of > 80 residues. Functional validation demonstrated the importance of CK1ε-induced phosphorylation of S268 and S311 for Wnt-3a-induced β-catenin activation. S630–643 cluster phosphorylation by CK1, NEK2 or TTBK2 is essential for even subcellular distribution of DVL3 when induced by CK1 and TTBK2 but not by NEK2. Further investigation showed that NEK2 utilizes a different mechanism to promote even localization of DVL3. NEK2 triggered phosphorylation of PDZ domain at S263 and S280 prevents binding of DVL C-terminus to PDZ and promotes an open conformation of DVL3 that is more prone to even subcellular localization. Conclusions We identify unique phosphorylation barcodes associated with DVL function. Our data provide an example of functional synergy between phosphorylation in structured domains and unstructured IDRs that together dictate the biological outcome. Video Abtract. Graphical abstract

Dishevelled (DVL) is the key component of Wnt signaling pathway that acts as a signaling hub. Here, authors study the conformational dynamics of DVL3 in vivo using their engineered FlAsH-based FRET biosensors and describe how Wnt activation opens DVL and facilitates Frizzled recruitment.

Introduction: Stafne's cyst (SC) is a bone depression found on the lingual side of the mandible. It is a sharply demarcated osteolytic lesion of the mandible, caudal to the inferior alveolar nerve and restricted to the regions of the molars and mandibular angle. Purpose: Stafne's bone cyst is usually asymptomatic being diagnosed on the routine radiographs as an incidental finding hence, its actual prevalence is unknown. Moreover, the lesion simulates many odonogenic pathologies thereby, and the entity remains a diagnostic challenge. So, the present study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of SC in Jodhpur population of Western India. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 18040 OPGs was done on the basis of diagnostic criteria described by Stafne. Results: A total of 6 cases fulfilled diagnostic criteria of SC (0.03%), 4 cases were reported in men (66.6%), at a mean age of 50.75 years, and 2 cases in women (33.3%), at a mean age of 31.5 years. Involvement of SC on left and right side of the mandible was given as 4:2 in ratio. All 6 cases of SC was found in the body of mandible (100%). Rare case of double unilateral form of SC was reported in 1 patient. Conclusion: Orthopantomographs (OPGs) may ensure initial opinion regarding the diagnosis of SC and alert the clinicians to exclude other potential pathologies to avoid invasive procedures.

Alcoholism is a common cause of sialosis. We describe a case of sialosiswith diffuse painless bilateral parotid gland enlargement associated with alcoholism. The diagnosis was based on clinical appearance, biochemical investigations and ultrasonography. The parotid swelling resulting from sialadenosisis asymptomatic, which concerns the patient because of cosmetic reasons. The dental practitioner needs to be able to differentiate sialosisfrom other pathological states that demonstrate bilateral parotid swelling to avoid unnecessary treatment.

An economic analysis of capsicum production in Haryana under different protected structures has been done in the present study. Sonepat, Karnal and Hisar districts were purposively selected as cultivation under all types of protected structures (natural ventilated polyhouses, net houses, and walk-in-tunnels) is practice in these districts. The results obtained in this study indicated that the naturally ventilated polyhouse has the highest total cost (Cost C2) incurred on capsicum in the district of Sonepat followed by Hisar and Karnal. Net returns were found highest in Karnal district followed by Hisar and Sonepat, respectively. B:C ratio was found highest in Karnal among all these three selected districts. In case of net house, the highest total cost incurred on capsicum in Karnal district followed by the districts of Sonepat and Hisar. However, Hisar district gave the highest net returns followed by Karnal and Sonepat. B:C ratio was found highest in Hisar as compared to Sonepat and Karnal districts, while, in walk-in-tunnel structures, highest total cost incurred on capsicum in Sonepat district among all districts. Net returns were found highest in Sonepat district in comparison to all districts. B:C ratio was equal recorded in Sonepat and Hisar district. It was calculated from the study that producer's share in consumer rupee was found highest in market channel-III (producer to direct consumer) which was proved to be most efficient channel in marketing of capsicum.

Introduction: Pain free dentistry is the need of the hour, and when our dental procedure involves treatment specially in children then it is of prime concern. Even after introduction of latest pain control measures, greater palatine nerve block injection is still considered a painful experience in most of the patients due to firm adherence of palatal mucosa to the underlying bone. Aim: To evaluate the pain levels between Infraobital nerve block with and without Greater Palatine (GP) anaesthesia during orthodontic extraction of maxillary first premolar. Materials and Methods: This Split-Mouth, Prospective Study was conducted from November 2019 to January 2020 on 60 patients with age group range from 12-18 years requiring bilateral maxillary first premolar extractions for orthodontic purpose. Each patient received 1.8 mL of lignocaine Hydro-Chloride (lignocaine HCl) for infraorbital nerve block on 1 side and on the other side received 0.5 mL lignocaine HCl for greater palatine nerve block in addition to 1.8 mL lignocaine HCl for infraorbital nerve block. The nerve block were given based on a computer-generated list. In each patient, difference in the pain levels was assessed on administration of infraorbital nerve block with and without greater palatine nerve block. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in pain levels between Orthodontic extraction of maxillary first premolar extraction with and without palatal injection (p>0.05). Conclusion: Orthodontic extraction of maxillary first premolar teeth can be done by giving only infraorbital nerve block with 2% lignocaine without greater palatine nerve block.

The software maintenance activities performed without following the original design decisions about the package structure usually deteriorate the quality of software modularization, leading to decay of the quality of the system. One of the main reasons for such structural deterioration is inappropriate grouping of source code classes in software packages. To improve such grouping/modular-structure, previous researchers formulated the software remodularization problem as an optimization problem and solved it using search-based meta-heuristic techniques. These optimization approaches aimed at improving the quality metrics values of the structure without considering the original package design decisions, often resulting into a totally new software modularization. The entirely changed software modularization becomes costly to realize as well as difficult to understand for the developers/maintainers. To alleviate this issue, we propose a multi-objective optimization approach to improve the modularization quality of an object-oriented system with minimum possible movement of classes between existing packages of original software modularization. The optimization is performed using NSGA-II, a widely-accepted multi-objective evolutionary algorithm. In order to ensure minimum modification of original package structure, a new approach of computing class relations using weighted strengths has been proposed here. The weights of relations among different classes are computed on the basis of the original package structure. A new objective function has been formulated using these weighted class relations. This objective function drives the optimization process toward better modularization quality simultaneously ensuring preservation of original structure. To evaluate the results of the proposed approach, a series of experiments are conducted over four real-worlds and two random software applications. The experimental results clearly indicate the effectiveness of our approach in improving the modularization quality of existing package structure by doing very small movement of classes between packages of original software modularization.

Heart rate variability (HRV) describes the individual variation in cardiac cycle duration and is a measure of vagal control of heart rate. Here, the authors identify seventeen single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with HRV, lending new insight into the vagal regulation of heart rhythm.

Fast and competitive software industry demands rapid development using Component Based Software Development (CBSD). CBSD is dependent on the availability of the high-quality reusable component libraries. Recently, evolutionary multi-objective optimization algorithms have been used to identify sets of reusable software components from the source-code of Object Oriented (OO) software, using different quality indicators (e.g. cohesion, coupling, etc.). Sometimes, these used quality indicators are quite sensitive towards the small variations in their values, although they should not be. Therefore, this paper analyzes the sensitivity of the evolutionary technique for three quality indicators used during the identification: Frequent Usage Pattern (FUP), Semantic and evolutionary coupling. The sensitivity analysis is performed on three widely used open-source OO software. The experimentation is performed by mutating the system to different degrees. Results of the empirical analysis indicate that the semantic parameter is most sensitive and important. Ignoring this feature highly degrades the quality; FUP relation is uniformly sensitive and evolutionary relations's sensitivity is non-uniform.

Introduction: The gastro-intestinal hormone glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) potentiates glucose-induced insulin secretion, with bone anabolic effects through GIP receptor (GIPR) in animal models. We explore its potential in humans by analyzing association between polymorphisms (SNPs) in the GIP and GIPR genes with bone phenotypes in young and elderly women. Methods: Association between GIP (rs2291725) and GIPR (rs10423928) and BMD, bone mineral content (BMC), bone microarchitecture, fracture and body composition was analyzed in the OPRA (75y, n = 1044) and PEAK-25 (25y; n = 1061) cohorts and serum-GIP in OPRA. Results: The GIP receptor AA-genotype was associated with lower ultrasound values in young women (BUA p = 0.011; SI p = 0.030), with no association to bone phenotypes in the elderly. In the elderly, the GIP was associated with lower ultrasound (GG vs. AA; SOS padj = 0.021) and lower femoral neck BMD and BMC after adjusting for fat mass (padj = 0.016 and padj = 0.03). In young women, neither GIPR nor GIP associated with other bone phenotypes including spine trabecular bone score. In the elderly, neither SNP associated with fracture. GIP was associated with body composition only in Peak-25; GIPR was not associated with body composition in either cohort. Serum-GIP levels (in elderly) were not associated with bone phenotypes, however lower levels were associated with the GIPR A-allele (β = −6.93; padj = 0.03). Conclusions: This first exploratory association study between polymorphisms in GIP and GIPR in relation to bone phenotypes and serum-GIP in women at different ages indicates a possible, albeit complex link between glucose metabolism genes and bone, while recognizing that further studies are warranted.

The influence of silicon carbide (SiC) addition to W-Ni-Cu-based heavy alloys has been investigated in the present study. The powders of W-Ni-Cu with varying percentages of SiC were blended and sintered using conventional and Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) techniques. The sintered samples were characterized to determine the density, microstructure, and mechanical properties. The alloy (W-7Ni-3Cu-0.5SiC) exhibits high ultimate tensile strength 430 MPa for conventional sintering and 831 MPa for spark plasma sintering, relative sintered density 71.84% and 88.25% of conventional sintered and spark plasma sintering, respectively. After the tensile test, the fracture surfaces show a mixed-mode fracture consisting of brittle W/W intergranular and ductile mode of fracture in the matrix.

Several intracellular pathogens arrest the phagosome maturation in the host cells to avoid transport to lysosomes. In contrast, the Leishmania containing parasitophorous vacuole (PV) is shown to recruit lysosomal markers and thus Leishmania is postulated to be residing in the phagolysosomes in macrophages. Here, we report that Leishmania donovani specifically upregulates the expression of Rab5a by degrading c-Jun via their metalloprotease gp63 to downregulate the expression of miR-494 in THP-1 differentiated human macrophages. Our results also show that miR-494 negatively regulates the expression of Rab5a in cells. Subsequently, L. donovani recruits and retains Rab5a and EEA1 on PV to reside in early endosomes and inhibits transport to lysosomes in human macrophages. Similarly, we have also observed that Leishmania PV also recruits Rab5a by upregulating its expression in human PBMC differentiated macrophages. However, the parasite modulates the endosome by recruiting Lamp1 and inactive pro-CathepsinD on PV via the overexpression of Rab5a in infected cells. Furthermore, siRNA knockdown of Rab5a or overexpression of miR-494 in human macrophages significantly inhibits the survival of the parasites. These results provide the first mechanistic insights of parasite-mediated remodeling of endo-lysosomal trafficking to reside in a specialized early endocytic compartment.

Aim: To determine the pattern of ocular injuries presenting to the accident and emergency department of a large zonal level hospital in a non operational area. Material and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted from July 2009 to June 2012 in a large, 580 bedded, zonal level military hospital. This hospital caters to serving soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their dependants as well as several large premier military training establishments. It is by far the largest service hospital in its state, and its eye center is the only military eye care facility available for the above-mentioned group of patients. Ocular trauma in our study was defined as any eye injury requiring medical attention. Results: Of the 177 patients included in the study, 153 (86.4%) sustained a closed globe injury while 24 (13.6%) had open globe injuries. One hundred and forty-eight (83.6%) of them presented within 24 hours of injury. One hundred and fifty-one (85.3%) patients required hospital admission. Finally, none of the patients involved were wearing any kind of protective eyewear at the time of injury. Conclusion: This study is unique for the fact that it involves both the military personnel as well as civilians and its analysis provides an insight into the pattern of ocular trauma in our set up. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only study which has been done combining both these entities. The findings indicate that ocular trauma is a significant cause of visual morbidity in this segment of population.

Nature Communications 8: Article number: 15805 (2017); Published: 14 June 2017; Updated: 2 August 2017 In Supplementary Fig. 10 of this Article, images for panels a and b were inadvertently omitted. The correct version of Supplementary Fig. 10 is provided as Supplementary Information associated withthis Erratum.