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Intro: Between 2020 and 2021, the school-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program was temporarily interrupted in Peru due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While immunization services resumed in March 2022, the efforts and time required for immunization services to catch-up girls who missed doses of HPV vaccine are unclear. We aimed to estimate the impact of the pandemic on the number of HPV doses administered and time needed to reverse to pre- pandemic coverage levels. Methods: A previously published model (Saxena et al 2021) was adapted to the Peruvian context to quantify the deficit in HPV doses administered to Peruvian girls aged 9-13 years between 2020 and 2021. The model included the following periods: pre-pandemic, COVID-19 pandemic, transition period (linear increase until reach an assumed rate) and catch-up (rates higher than 2019). The monthly HPV vaccine doses were compared with 2019 levels. The model estimated the cumulative deficit in doses administered and the projected time and catch-up rates/number of doses required to close the 2020/2021 HPV immunization gap relative to 2019. Findings: Based on administrative data, we estimated that a total of 430,000, 358,207, and 301,650 doses of HPV vaccine were administered to 9-13 years girls in Peru in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively. Annual doses decreased by 16.7% and 29.8% in 2020 and 2021 compared to 2019. Starting on October 2022 with a monthly catch-up rate of 5% (1,792 additional doses/month) and 10% (3,588 additional doses/month), the projected dose deficit was expected to be cleared in August 2025 and March 2024, respectively. Conclusion: A marked disruption to HPV routine immunization occurred in 2020 and 2021 in Peru, with HPV vaccine coverage estimated to have fallen between 16.7-29.8%. The recovery to pre-pandemic coverage and catch-up of missed doses require a sustained increase in vaccination over multiple years to prevent HPV infection/disease in near and long term.

Introduction The native liver survival in biliary atresia (BA) depends on various factors, and one of the crucial factors is the rate of progression of liver fibrosis after portoenterostomy, but there is no reliable investigation to assess it. This study evaluated shear wave elastography (SWE) to detect liver fibrosis in BA patients and assess its utility during follow-up.

Abstract The cleaner operation system is a necessity of the current industrial scenario, and it depends on the operational performances and conditions. The recent advancement in decision-making approaches shows interest in a digitized perspective for monitoring operations planning and energy scheduling. However, the manufacturers are approaching a sustainable decision-making approach with hybrid energy systems for achieving operational excellence. A sustainable decision-making approach helps industry personnel in deploying the correct action planning for controlling operations efficiently and the hybrid energy system provides alternative power sources for operation without interruption. This paper discusses the sustainable decision-making approach used for achieving operational excellence considering energy sources. The present study shows concise details on the approaches used for improving operational excellence in different industrial sectors. The present study showed that the manufacturers succeed in operations outcomes by maximizing resources and energy utilization through innovative technologies.

In the current work, the strength and elastic properties of MXene/CNT reinforced epoxy/glass fibre based nanocomposites were investigated using experimental and analytical approach. To achieve this, the Halpin-Tsai model and Chamis model was employed to evaluate the mechanical properties of two -phase (MXene-CNT)/Epoxy composite and three-phase (MXene-CNT)/Epoxy/Glass fibre composite. The accuracy of the analytical model was verified by comparing the results with the experimental data. To study the strength properties of the composites in detail, experimental tensile and flexural tests were carried out. Finally, a parametric study was performed to investigate the influence of weight fractions and aspect ratios on the elastic properties of MXene/CNT reinforced composites. It was observed that the MXene/CNT reinforced glass/epoxy based composite exhibited higher load bearing capacity as compared to neat glass/epoxy composite for all the performed mechanical tests. The tensile, shear and flexural modulus of MXene/CNT reinforced laminated composite were found to be 17.2%, 15.6%, and 16.2%, higher in comparison to the neat glass/epoxy laminated composite. The addition of nano-fillers exerted positive impact on the elastic properties of both the two-phase and three-phase nanocomposites and the properties kept on improving with weight fraction of the nano-fillers. Regarding the impact of aspect ratio on elastic modulus, however, conflicting findings were noted. Increase in the aspect ratio, on one hand, resulted in an increase in the longitudinal elastic modulus; on the other hand, it resulted in a monotonous reduction in the shear modulus.

This study examines the impact of both constant and pulsed current on the tensile characteristics, micro-hardness of weld surface, and metallurgical properties of the Inconel 718 and SS316L weldments. The Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding process utilized two distinct arc modes to combine incompatible metals. The pulse frequency was systematically adjusted within the range of 2 Hz–6 Hz in order to investigate its impact on the welding parameters. A tensile test was performed using a universal testing equipment under various temperature conditions, including room temperature and an elevated temperature of 350 °C. When the samples were welded at a frequency of 4 Hz, both the Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and Yield Strength (YS) were greater compared to when the samples were welded at 2 Hz, 6 Hz, or a continuous arc mode. Furthermore, it was noted that the YS-to-UTS ratio was higher for the weldments produced at 4 Hz pulse frequency. The UTS of current and pulsed (4 Hz) modes at a temperature of 350 °C were determined to be 505 and 524 MPa, respectively. Pulse welding demonstrated a higher hardness number compared to steady welding due to the regulated rate of heat. The TIG weldments of Inconel 718 and SS316L demonstrated superior mechanical and metallurgical qualities when exposed to elevated temperatures. The practical implications of these findings are relevant to the fabrication of turbine discs and shafts.

Electrochromic windows are considered as future smart windows for conditioning day light inside the room. Most of the electrochromic windows are fabricated using synthetic electrolytes which require an external power source and are also not always environmental friendly. Therefore there is a need for the utilization of naturally occurring electrolytes and also low power consumption devices. We report a self-powered electrochromic window based on naturally occurring gel electrolyte extracted from aloe vera. Prussian blue and aluminum electrode based electrochromic window was fabricated to test the aloe vera gel as electrolyte. A voltage of 0.8 V appeared across the two conducting electrodes of the electrochromic device and light transmittance was found to change from dark to transparent state on self-biasing. The recovery of the device from transparent to dark state with different external voltages was studied. Aloe vera gel was found to be useful as an electrolyte in smart windows, due to its advantages such as low cost, ease of availability and non–toxicity.

Abstract The draft genome sequence of an agriculturally important actinobacterial species Amycolatopsis sp. BCA-696 was developed and characterized in this study. Amycolatopsis BCA-696 is known for its biocontrol properties against charcoal rot and also for plant growth-promotion (PGP) in several crop species. The next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based draft genome of Amycolatopsis sp. BCA-696 comprised of ~ 9.05 Mb linear chromosome with 68.75% GC content. In total, 8716 protein-coding sequences and 61 RNA-coding sequences were predicted in the genome. This newly developed genome sequence has been also characterized for biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) and biosynthetic pathways. Furthermore, we have also reported that the Amycolatopsis sp. BCA-696 produces the glycopeptide antibiotic vancomycin that inhibits the growth of pathogenic gram-positive bacteria. A comparative analysis of the BCA-696 genome with publicly available closely related genomes of 14 strains of Amycolatopsis has also been conducted. The comparative analysis has identified a total of 4733 core and 466 unique orthologous genes present in the BCA-696 genome The unique genes present in BCA-696 was enriched with antibiotic biosynthesis and resistance functions. Genome assembly of the BCA-696 has also provided genes involved in key pathways related to PGP and biocontrol traits such as siderophores, chitinase, and cellulase production.

In the present work, the Inconel 625 material is utilized for processing on a wire electrical discharge machine. The zinc-coated brass wire is used as a tool electrode. The Taguchi mixed orthogonal L27 experimental design is developed to perform the experiments. The parameter was induced on normal and cryogenic material such as pulse on time (Ton), pulse off time (Toff), discharge current (Ip), wire feed (Wf), and wire tension (WT). The characteristics responses i.e., material removal rate (MRR), surface roughness (Ra), and overcut (OC) were analyzed. The genetic algorithm (GA) was applied for the evaluation and measuring of fact, which determined its performance, and predicted facts were considered for particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique multiple objective problems. After the comparison, the facts predicted were analyzed for the response, which revealed the surface integrity and accuracy on the machined surface. The solution implied that applied PSO gives highly significant results on optimal setting parameters of WEDM machining. The 0.419 μm surface roughness has been obtained by a cryogenic process as compared to normal (0.880 μm). The material removal rate for the cryogenic process was found to have decreased in PSO by 21.18 % and in GA by 2.78 % in comparison to the normal process. The obtained results give the utmost measure for the suitability of time reduction and cost-cutting in productivity rate.

Abstract Environmental contamination by hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and antibiotic drug residues pose significant challenges to public health and ecosystems. This study investigates the application of CoTiO3/BiVO4@MIL-Fe(53) (CT/BV@Fe-MOF) for the reduction of Cr(VI) and degradation of tetracycline (TCL) under visible light. After grafting an iron-based metal–organic framework MIL-Fe(53) on a modified CoTiO3/BiVO4 composite, the photogenerated electrons could easily be transferred from CoTiO3 to BiVO4/Fe-MOF species via interfacial charge transfer. UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy showed that charge carriers were formed in response to visible light absorption. The effect of different operating parameters, including catalyst load, pH, initial Cr(VI), and TCL concentration, was systematically evaluated during the photocatalytic process. The CT/BV@Fe-MOF composite exhibited 98.7% reduction efficiency in Cr(VI) (50 ppm) and 97.5% degradation efficiency towards TCL (30 ppm) within 90 min, resulting in a greater efficiency than the pristine CoTiO3, BiVO4, and Fe-MOF materials. The CT/BV@Fe-MOF composite displayed excellent stability over six cycles, highlighting its potential for practical applications. In addition, the plausible degradation pathway of TCL was evaluated using LC-ESI/MS analysis, while the TEST program was utilized to investigate the toxicity of the products generated during the degradation process.

The present experimental work is carried out on SAE 420 steel to optimize process parameters of low-power laser hardening to improve surface micro-hardness and wear resistance for dry sliding for bio-medical applications. Laser power is the most significant factor for micro-hardening and wear resistance. Rank two for scanning speed and three for standoff distance, respectively. The experiments show that the surface micro-hardness of treated samples varies from 711 to 833 Vickers Pyramid Number by optimized process parameters such as laser beam power of 300 W, laser scan speed of 1.0 mm/s, and standoff distance of 225 mm. In comparison, the base material micro-hardness is 208 Vickers Pyramid Number as the predictive equation generated for finding micro-hardness value for the above three laser hardening process parameters. The dry sliding wear test is conducted on all laser-treated samples and a comparison is made with the untreated sample. A significant improvement in wear resistance was observed for treated as compared to untreated samples. The wear of laser hardened sample of SAE 420 steel was 3.67 x10-9 g/cm compared to untreated base metal wear rate of 139.00 x 10-9 g/cm at an applied load of 30 N and sliding speed of 300 revolutions per minute. The scanning electron microscopy analysis of wear samples (untreated, treated maximum, and minimum hardness) is observed for investigating material removal patterns.

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare reaction pattern with a typical morphology and a short clinical course that in majority of cases is related to medication administration. It is an acute pustular eruption with unique clinical features, a rapid clinical course and a typical histopathology. Herein, we report the case of a patient with acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis for its classical presentation.

This paper investigates the effects of silica fume (SF) and metakaolin (MK) as cement substitutes on the mechanical properties, shrinkage, and toughness performances of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC). Initially, a reference concrete mix with a water-to-binder ratio of 0.4 is blended with different volume fractions of steel fibers with varying geometries (crimped steel and straight steel), both individually and in combination, to examine their mechanical properties. Also, the possible influence of pozzolans on the variation of drying shrinkage and flexural toughness of hybrid steel fiber reinforced concrete (Hy-SFRC) was evaluated. An increase in workability was observed as a result of hybridization of steel fibers. Pozzolanic steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) exhibited a more significant enhancement in compressive strength and flexural strength compared to non-pozzolanic SFRC. The hybrid combination of CS 1.5 % and SS 0.5 % was found to be the best in terms of mechanical properties. The addition of SF and MK reduced the shrinkage strain by up to 50 % compared to the reference mix. The flexural toughness values for both binary and ternary pozzolanic Hy-SFRC were notably higher than those for non-pozzolanic Hy-SFRC, indicating a stronger bond between the fibers and the matrix. Hy-SFRC containing a ternary pozzolanic mix of SF 10 % and MK 10 % gave the best results in flexural toughness. The results were consistent with morphology analysis, which revealed an increase in hydration products at the interface between the aggregate and concrete matrix, as well as between the steel fiber and concrete matrix, due to the ternary blending of SF and MK.

In this study, the mechanical properties of advanced composites fabricated by the hand lay-up process were investigated. The mechanical properties evaluated in this study included tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact strength. Tensile tests were performed to measure the resistance of the composites to pulling forces, while flexural tests assessed their resistance to bending. Impact tests, on the other hand, determine the material's ability to absorb sudden forces or shocks. Results showed that all the composite materials exhibited high tensile strength, with the Carbon fiber epoxy composite displaying the highest value due to the exceptional strength of carbon fibers. In terms of flexural strength, the Glass-Fiber Polymer Matrix composite demonstrated the highest resistance to bending, while the Kevlar-Epoxy composite exhibited the highest impact strength, owing to the unique properties of Kevlar fibers, which offer excellent energy absorption capabilities. In the hardness test, the Kevlar composite to epoxy matrix showed hardness from HRB 105 to HRB 125 an increase of 19.04 %, while fiberglass increased hardness by 14.2 % and carbon fiber by 16.3 %. The Impact test shows that the Kevlar composite to epoxy matrix showed hardness from HRB 105 to HRB 125 an increase of 19.04 %, while fiberglass increased hardness by 14.2 % and carbon fiber by 16.3 %. Kevlar reinforcing composite produced the highest flexural strength, compared to neat epoxy by 91.7 %. Carbon fibre composites were 52.5 % higher, whereas glass fibre composites were 15.6 % higher. SEM imaging results from the cross-sections show that the best bonding between the base material and the fibers was observed for Kevlar reinforced with epoxy. All mechanical test showed that Kevlar (Aramid fiber) provides excellent mechanical properties when compared to carbon fibre and glass fibre. Hence, Kevlar (aramid fiber) can be an option for preparing light weight helmets, automobiles, aeronautics, safety equipments etc.

Diabetes is a fast-developing medical issue that causes most renal and cardiac illnesses. Thus, diabetes management requires regular glucose monitoring. One potential technology is non-invasive glucometer monitoring. This work aims to develop a user-friendly near-infrared sensor-based non-invasive glucose monitoring system, correlating sensor output voltage variations with glucose levels, to provide accurate and convenient glucose monitoring for diabetes management. The objective is to validate the system’s accuracy against existing fingerpick methods and analyze its performance across different age groups and food intake conditions through experimental testing and Clarke grid analysis. In our research, we propose a near-infrared sensor-based non-invasive-type glucose monitoring technique which is a user-friendly system. The experimental setup and prototype system are designed and implemented for measuring the variation of glucose level with respect to a sensor output voltage. Using Beer Lambert’s law, the established results correlated the absorbance property of light with the sample concentration level. Demonstration of testing for different aged people was done under various food intake conditions. The obtained results are tabulated and validated with the existing fingerpick method and achieved an accuracy of 97.8%. Also, Clarke grid analysis has been done and depicted the pattern obtained.

This study incorporated Multi-walled carbon nanotube particles (MWCNTs) and Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles (TiO2) into a metal matrix composite in Ni–P coated substrate using an Electroless technique. This study significantly improves the tribological properties, enhances corrosion resistance, increases durability and extends the service life of coated rebar. Coated rebar helps make infrastructure more sustainable by extending the life of buildings and lowering their material consumption, trash output, and ecological footprint. The tribological behaviour of steel rebar has been studied by using a variety of characterization techniques, like X-ray diffraction, Atomic Force Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) including the corrosion test and the hardness test. The topographical roughness of the bare specimen, Ni–P coated specimen, CNT coated specimen and TiO2 coated specimen are 67.4 nm, 112 nm, 201 nm, and 162 nm respectively. The microhardness of the bare substrate, Ni–P coated, CNT doped coated, and TiO2 dopped coated specimens was done using Vicker's Hardness tester and the mean values were 455 HV, 580 HV, 810 HV, and 680 HV respectively. Resistance to corrosion of TMT steel rebar of Fe500 was examined using the polarisation method and Electrochemical-Impedance-Spectroscope (EIS) method. These techniques were examined in 3.5 wt% aqueous medium of NaCl and analysed the Ecorr (corrosion potential) and Icorr (Corrosion current density) of the bare substrate, Ni–P coated, Ni–P/CNT and Ni–P/TiO2 substrate. The corrosion inhabitation efficiency of the Ni–P-CNT doped was 22.5% more than the Bare substrate, and the TiO2 doped coated specimen was 10.63% more than the bare substrate. Resistance to corrosion of the CNT-coated substrate is better than Ni–P/TiO2 and Ni–P-coated specimens.

Purpose: Brachytherapy is the gold-standard treatment for choroidal melanoma. This study evaluated iodine-125 brachytherapy by using Ocuprosta seeds with indigenous non-collimated plaques in Asian patients. Methods: Retrospective single-center study in a tertiary care hospital of 12 eyes with choroidal melanoma in 12 Asian patients who underwent brachytherapy with Ocuprosta seeds fixed on non-collimated plaques and had a follow-up of at least 32 months (mean: 42.4 ± 9.5 months; median: 40 months). Radiotherapy was planned after developing the digital 3D model of the tumor within the eye by using radiological images and clinical pictures. Ocuprosta iodine-125 seeds were used on indigenous non-collimated gold plaques to deliver the radiation for precalculated time. “Successful outcome” was taken as a decrease in the volume of the tumor, and “unsuccessful outcome” was defined as no change in the tumor volume or increase in the tumor volume at 24 months after brachytherapy. Results: The mean decrease in tumor volume was 21% (914.5 ± 912.2 mm3 to 495.7 ± 633.6 mm3) after brachytherapy, which correlated with the baseline volume of the tumor. Ten eyes (83.3%) showed a reduction in tumor volume, whereas two eyes showed an increase in the volume of the tumor after brachytherapy. One of the cases with a reduction in tumor size developed neovascular glaucoma. Enucleation was done in three eyes. A globe salvage rate of 75% and tumor regression rate of 83% were seen in the present study using Ocuprosta seeds. Conclusions: Iodine-125 brachytherapy with uncollimated indigenous gold plaques is an effective treatment modality for choroidal melanomas in Asian patients.

Magnetic water treatment (magnetic treatment device (MTD)) has long been a contentious procedure for domestic water treatment. This study examines the pros and cons of using different water types with and without a magnetic field treatment for growing French bean crop irrigation. The MTD used in this experiment works by ionizing the dissolved solid using a cathode and anode, electrolysing water using a dynamic pulse current at 50 kHz, and energizing the cations using a 7,000 Gauss magnet. The MTD of normal, waste and saline water enhanced the yield by 12.7, 16.9, and 20.07% over their respective control plots. Contrarily, seed protein (22.52 g/100 g), vitamin A (687.09 IU), potassium (212.44 mg/100 g), vitamin K (14.32 mg/100 g), and calcium (39.93 mg/100 g) reached their peak values when French bean plants were irrigated by magnetically treated wastewater. Na concentration in pods was significantly reduced when 3,000 mg/L of magnetically treated saline water was used to irrigate French bean plants. The MTD of irrigation water has also improved N and K desorption from colloidal soil complexes, which significantly helped make these two elements easily available to the plants and promoting better plant growth and yield. Overall, using the MTD, the overall characteristics of French bean were improved. HIGHLIGHTS Importance and the positive effect of magnetically treated water on crop growth, yield, and quality parameters were demonstrated.; Increase in the efficiency of growth and productivity of French bean grown under environmental stresses by using magnetized water.; The magnetic treatment device (MTD) of irrigation water has also improved N and K desorption from colloidal soil complexes.;

This paper explores theories of motivation, including instinct theory, arousal theory, incentive theory, intrinsic theory, extrinsic theory, the ARCS model, self-determination theory, expectancy-value theory, and goal-orientation theory. Each theory is described in detail, along with its key concepts, assumptions, and implications for behavior. Intrinsic theory suggests that individuals are motivated by internal factors like enjoyment and satisfaction, while extrinsic theory suggests that external factors like rewards and social pressure drive behavior. Arousal theory says that to feel motivated, people try to keep an optimal level of activation or excitement. Incentive theory suggests that behavior is driven by the promise of rewards or the threat of punishment. The ARCS model, designed to motivate learners, incorporates elements of attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. Self-determination theory proposes that individuals are motivated by their needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. The expectation-value theory suggests that behavior is influenced by individuals' beliefs about their ability to succeed and the value they place on the task. The goal-orientation theory suggests that individuals have different goals for engaging in a behavior. By understanding these different theories of motivation, educators, coaches, managers, and individuals may analyze what drives behavior and how to harness it to achieve their goals. In essence, a nuanced comprehension of these diverse motivation theories equips individuals across varied domains with a strategic toolkit to navigate the complex landscape of human behavior, fostering a more profound understanding of what propels actions and how to channel these insights toward the attainment of overarching goals.

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) play a vital role in the induction of morphogenesis in vitro. Synthetic PGRs are commonly used to induce organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis from various explants, while natural substances are rarely utilized. This study aimed to enhance the regenerative response in Nicotiana tabacum leaf explants using Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaf extract and to elucidate the biochemical interactions during modulation of endogenous plant growth regulators, including indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), zeatin, and 6-(γ, γ-dimethylallylamino) purine (2iP). Tulsi leaf extract significantly improved shoot production through interactions between endogenous hormones and those present in the extract, which enhanced stress mitigation. The 20% Tulsi leaf extract treatment produced significantly more shoots than the control, coinciding with increased endogenous IAA and zeatin levels starting on day 10 in culture. Furthermore, ABA and zeatin concentrations increased on days 15 and 25, respectively, in the 20% Tulsi extract treatment, suggesting their role in the induction of somatic embryo-like structures. ABA likely acts as an activator of stress responses, encouraging the development of these structures. Additionally, 2iP was involved in the induction of both forms of regeneration in the 10% and 20% extract treatments, especially in combination with ABA. These results suggest that Tulsi leaf extract holds promising potential as a natural supplement for increasing plant regeneration in vitro and advancing our understanding of how natural extracts of plant origin can be harnessed to optimize plant regeneration processes in vitro.

Surgical techniques are evolving in Pediatric Surgery, especially in the area of minimal access surgery (MAS) where indications for applications are expanding. Miniaturization of instruments, using natural orifices, single incisions, or remotely controlled robot-assisted procedures, promises to increase the benefits of MAS procedures in pediatrics. Many pediatric pathologies are rare, and specialized surgical and anesthesiologic instruments are necessary to manage them, defined as “orphan devices”, for which development and dissemination on the market are slowed down or sometimes hindered by regulatory standards and limiting financial conflicts of interest. In pediatric surgery, it is of utmost importance to work in a multidisciplinary way to offer a surgical path that is safe and supported by technological advances. For this reason, optimizing pediatric anesthesia is also a crucial factor where technological advances have made monitoring more precise, thereby enhancing safety in the operative room. The development of customized instruments and technologies should be supported by pediatric research and should be adapted to the individualities of the small patient. This overview outlines the importance of dedicated instruments developed for the safe completion of MAS procedures in pediatrics.

The medicinal plant tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.) is acknowledged for its invigorating and healing properties that enhance resilience to stress in various human and animal models by modulating antioxidant compounds. While extensive research has documented these effects in humans, the adaptogenic potential of tulsi in stressful in vitro plant systems has not been explored. This study aimed to elucidate the adaptogenic properties of tulsi leaf extract on the in vitro regeneration of tobacco leaf explants through an investigation of the indoleamines at different developmental stages. Shoot regeneration from leaf explants on the medium supplemented with tulsi extract (20%) was compared to the control, and the differences in indoleamine compounds were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography. Treatment of the explants with the extract resulted in an almost two-fold increase in the number of regenerants after four weeks of culture, and 9% of the regenerants resembled somatic embryo-like structures. The occurrence of browning in the extract-treated explants stopped on day 10, shoots began to develop, and a significant concentration of tryptamine and N-acetyl-serotonin accumulated. A comparative analysis of indoleamine compounds in intact and cut tobacco leaves also revealed the pivotal role of melatonin and 2-hydroxymelatonin functioning as antioxidants during stress adaptation. This study demonstrates that tulsi is a potent adaptogen that is capable of modulating plant morphogenesis in vitro, paving the way for further investigations into the role of adaptogens in plant stress biology.

Type I collagen, prevalent in the extracellular matrix, is biocompatible and crucial for tissue engineering and wound healing, including angiogenesis and vascular maturation/stabilization as required processes of newly formed tissue constructs or regeneration. Sometimes, improper vascularization causes unexpected outcomes. Vascularization failure may be caused by extracellular matrix collagen and non-collagen components heterogeneously. This study compares the angiogenic potential of collagen type I-based scaffolds and collagen type I/glycosaminoglycans scaffolds by using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model and IKOSA digital image analysis. Two clinically used biomaterials, Xenoderm (containing type I collagen derived from decellularized porcine extracellular matrix) and a dual-layer collagen sponge (DLC, with a biphasic composition of type I collagen combined with glycosaminoglycans) were tested for their ability to induce new vascular network formation. The AI-based IKOSA app enhanced the research by calculating from stereomicroscopic images angiogenic parameters such as total vascular area, branching sites, vessel length, and vascular thickness. The study confirmed that Xenoderm caused a fast angiogenic response and substantial vascular growth, but was unable to mature the vascular network. DLC scaffold, in turn, produced a slower angiogenic response, but a more steady and organic vascular maturation and stabilization. This research can improve collagen-based knowledge by better assessing angiogenesis processes. DLC may be preferable to Xenoderm or other materials for functional neovascularization, according to the findings.

Here, a highly efficient and inexpensive technique to fabricate silver dendritic nanostructures with unique numerous lateral branches has been demonstrated. The study utilized the metal-assisted growth (MAG) technique, which is a simple, one-step technique that allows exact control over the size and morphology of the generated dendrites. The prepared dendrites are characterized using various techniques and the fabrication mechanism is well explored. The final synthesized Ag dendrites are then utilized to detect in-house cultured E. coli. cells using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity. The proposed reason for their superior SERS performance is due to the contribution from the large amount of plasmon-active ‘hotspots’ present in dendritic structures at the sharp edges enhancing the nearby local electromagnetic fields. The proposed work suggests Ag dendritic nanostructures as a potential candidate for SERS-based applications.

The sliding wear behavior of stir cast silicon nitride (Si3N4) and graphite (Gr) reinforced Al–Zn–Cu–Mg (Al alloy) matrix composites were investigated under dry conditions. Al alloy/1 wt.% Si3N4 composite, Al alloy/1 wt.% Si3N4–xGr hybrid composites (x = 1.5 and 3% Gr by weight) were separately developed to examine their wear behavior. Microstructure and EDS characterization were used to identify the reinforcement (Si3N4 and Gr) in casted composites. Experimental design with L–27 orthogonal matrix array was chosen to perform the wear experiments to examine the effect of various applied normal loads (15 N, 30 N, and 45 N) and sliding velocities (0.523, 1.047, and 1.57 m/s) at a constant sliding distance of 1000 m. Results reveal that the wear rate significantly decreased after adding 1.5 and 3 wt.% Gr in Al– Si3N4 composite and obtained a minimum wear rate for hybrid composites containing 3 wt.% Gr particles. ANOVA results revealed that load is the most dominating factor in wear rate, followed by sliding velocity and Gr content. The worn surface study observed lesser micro-cracks and pits in the hybrid composite containing 3 wt.% Gr compared to Al– Si3N4 composites. The uniform distribution of reinforcing particles in the Al alloy matrix was examined through SEM characterization of casted samples.

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, putatively caused by the widespread transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in significant mortality worldwide. The highly varied epidemiology of the disease both temporally and geographically has garnered much attention. The present study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the varied geospatial disease epidemiology during the first wave of the pandemic. The highly mutable spike (S) protein, which confers fitness to SARS-CoV-2 for its survival and spread was studied using representative sequences determined from the initial phase of the pandemic. Adaptive evolution and selection pressure analysis of 311 whole-genome sequences from across the world including Asia (n=105), Europe (n=101), and the United States (n=105) was performed. A high selection pressure at position 614 of the S protein with a dN/dS (non-synonymous/synonymous substitutions per site) ratio of 124.3 for Asia and 867.9 was predicted for Europe. This positively selected site (i.e. 614) was located in the S1 domain (amino acids 14-680), which acts in binding to the angiotensin-converting co-enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The US strains did not exhibit significant positive selection at position 614. In addition, 10 sites (144, 241, 255, 262, 263, 276, 439,517, 528, and 557) in domain 1 and 19 sites (692, 709, 723, 752, 862, 864, 877, 892, 939, 951, 1015, 1060, 1076, 1114, 1116, 1128, 1176, 1235 and 1240) in domain 2 of the S protein mediating viral entry into host cells, exhibited significant negative selection among European strains of (SARS-CoV-2), however, no negative selection was observed in the Asian and US groups. The D614G spike protein variant has been correlated with fatal outcomes in European population and countries including Italy, France, Belgium, and Spain. D614G variants under high selective pressure in the Asian and European strains were also observed. In addition, the presence of 29 negatively selected codon sites under low selection pressure in the European group may imply improved viral fitness compared with strains circulating in other continents. In conclusion, selective pressure on the S protein, with maximum substitution rate, may have facilitated adaptive evolution of the virus and contributed to the worldwide spread of the virus.

An investigation was carried out to understand the mechanism(s) involved in the uptake of sulfur (S) as sulfate in pigeonpea following single inoculation of two sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Stenotrophomonas pavanii in the treatments amended with either elemental sulfur (S0) or sulfate (S6). Colonization potential and biofilm formation were analyzed through confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Furthermore, the effect of seed inoculation on root architecture, expression of genes involved in sulfur oxidation (sox) in bacterial inoculants, and genes involved in sulfate transport in pigeonpea (PpSULTR) were analyzed to correlate with the higher uptake of S in roots and shoots of pigeonpea. Both the SOB exhibited a good colonization potential and biofilm formation on the roots of pigeonpea. Among the 11 sox genes targeted in rhizosphere of pigeonpea, expression was achieved for seven genes, which showed 2-fold increase in treatments inoculated with S. maltophilia and amended with either S6 or S0. The inoculation of S. maltophilia and amendment of S0 led to increased expression of PpSULTR genes by several folds in roots. The inoculation of SOB had a significant influence on non-enzymatic (osmolytes like proline) and enzymatic (PAL, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) levels. The results revealed a significant increase in sulfur uptake in roots and shoots in treatment inoculated with S. maltophilia and amended with S6. The investigation showed that the SOB-mediated over-expression of PpSULTR genes in roots of pigeonpea and sox genes in the rhizosphere were acting synergistically in facilitating higher uptake and translocation of S in roots and shoots of pigeonpea plants.

The present investigation was carried out to isolate, identify, and characterize sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) from coal mines and to evaluate the efficient strains for their ability to influence plant growth and S uptake in pigeonpea. Thirteen bacterial isolates belonging to Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (2), Stenotrophomonas pavanii (2), Rhizobium pusense (5), Bacillus velezensis (2), and Paenibacillus massiliensis (2) were obtained. Among these, seven strains that could reduce the pH of thiosulfate broth were further characterized for sulfur oxidation, plant growth-promoting (PGP) attributes, and in planta studies. Among the seven strains characterized, maximum sulfate ion was recorded for S. maltophilia DRC-18-7A (311.43 mg L−1) closely followed by S. pavanii DRC-18-7B (273.44 mg L−1) and S. maltophilia DRC-18-10 (265.75 mg L−1) after 21 days of inoculation. Among the PGP attributes quantified, maximum P solubilization was recorded in case of S. maltophilia DRC-18-7A (24.39 μg ml−1), while highest siderophore production and IAA production were recorded in S. maltophilia DRC-18-10 (14.25%) and R. pusense DRC-18-25 (15.21 μg ml−1), respectively. S. maltophilia DRC-18-7A closely followed by S. pavanii DRC-18-7B outperformed others in enhancing seed germination (%) and vigour indices. Results clearly indicated that microbial inoculants colonized the plant roots and developed biofilm on the root surface. It was further observed that plants treated with microbial inoculants induce an early formation of secondary and tertiary roots in the pigeonpea compared to the untreated control which was further confirmed by assessing the root architecture using the root scanner. Inoculation of these two strains to pigeonpea significantly enhanced plant growth parameters, the activity of reactive oxygen scavenging (ROS) enzymes, and accumulation of flavonoids, carotenoids, and proline both under sterilized and non-sterilized growth medium (sand and soil in 1:3 ratio). The application of microbial inoculants significantly increased the uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur in plant shoots. Further, transcript level of phosphate, potassium, and sulfur transporter genes significantly increases upon microbial inoculation leading to increased uptake and translocation of P, K, and S in the pigeonpea. The results indicate that S. maltophilia DRC-18-7A and S. pavanii DRC-18-7B could be recommended as inoculants for pigeonpea to improve its growth and sulfur nutrition.

Background and Aims: Various methods have been used to check vocal cord movements as a routine before awakening the patient at the end of thyroidectomy to rule out recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy; out of which, fibreoptic-assisted visualisation via laryngeal mask airway (LMA) being the most desirable. Methods: Thirty patients of either sex, aged 18-65 years, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade I/II, scheduled for thyroidectomy under general anaesthesia (GA) were included and were randomised to receive either fibreoptic assisted (FB) or LMA CTrach-assisted (CT) visualisation of laryngeal structures at the end of thyroidectomy. The primary outcome was grade of view of laryngeal structures and secondary outcomes were time taken to achieve optimal view of laryngeal structures, ease of visualisation, hemodynamic parameters, and complications. Results: In the fibreoptic group, we obtained comparable optimal laryngeal view i.e., grade 1 and 2 in all (100%) patients in comparison to 14 (93.33%) in LMA CTrach group. The “time taken to achieve the optimal view” was significantly lower in the CTrach group when compared to Fibreoptic group (220.67 ± 95.98 vis-a-vis 136.67 ± 68.98). The ease of visualisation of laryngeal structures was comparable (P = 0.713) and the baseline haemodynamic parameters were comparable between the 2 groups and at various designated intervals. In total, 6.66% and 26.66% patients in group FB and CT group, respectively, required manoeuvres. However, difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Both Fibreoptic-assisted and LMA CTrach-assisted visualization of laryngeal structures in thyroidectomy are equally efficacious in terms of the optimal laryngeal view obtained and ease of visualisation. However, the time taken to achieve optimal laryngeal view was lesser with LMA CTrach.

The present study is intended to adopt a facile method for preparing a sulphonated green carbon catalyst from date pits biomass. Catalyst synthesis involves in situ carbonization and sulphonation and it has been characterized by following techniques such as XRD, SEM, EDX, TEM, FTIR, TGA, and BET. Surface and internal morphology results exhibited that the synthesized sulphonated carbon material possesses a mesoporous structure, while activated carbon possesses a microporous structure. Furthermore, the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra confirmed the presence of acidic groups (OH, COOH, and SO3H) in synthesized sulphonated carbon material. Sulphonated carbon material exhibited high acidity (4.7 mmol/g) and good thermal stability. The application of this catalyst for the tertiary butylation of phenol without using any solvent has been investigated. The phenol alkylation reaction showed maximum conversion at reaction condition: temperature (140 °C) with 2 bar (nitrogen gas) pressure with maximum phenol conversion 79.27 wt%, with 68.01% selectivity towards 4TBP+2,4TBP, which is used as an intermediate in antioxidants. The catalyst exhibits comparable catalytic performance up to five reaction cycles. Thus it can be concluded that waste date pits can be successfully employed for green catalyst synthesis and used for reactions involving large molecules. Keywords: Waste date seeds, Sulphonation, Carbonization, Butylation, Phenol

In present experimental work, 310 SS alloy has been welded by the TIG welding using design of experiment and grey relation optimization techniques. The input parameters, i.e., welding current, welding gas flow rate, and welding voltage, have been selected to perform the TIG welding. The same filler material was used during the welding process to investigate the mechanical and microstructure properties. The design of experiment and grey relation optimization techniques were used to optimize the effect on hardness and tensile strength of the welded joints. The experiments were performed as per the L9 orthogonal array obtained by the design of experiment methodology. The 65 A, 12 V, and 7.5 gas flow rate optimum setting of input parameters provides the better results for the effective hardness and tensile strength. The most significant parameters, i.e., welding current with 84.93% and welding voltage with 65.09%, were obtained for hardness and tensile strength, respectively.