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Abstract This study evaluated the impact of differential sowing windows and improved weed management strategies on weed dynamics, productivity, and economic viability of direct drum seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the temperate agro-ecosystem of Kashmir. A two-year field experiment was conducted utilizing a split-plot design with two sowing dates (May 10 and June 3) as main plots and six weed management practices as sub-plots. The earlier sowing date (May 10) resulted in significantly enhanced leaf area index, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, net assimilation rate, and grain and straw yields compared to the later sowing (June 3). Among weed management treatments, four mechanized conoweedings (equivalent to weed-free conditions) and sequential application of bensulfuron methyl + pretilachlor (60 and 600 g a.i. ha−1) as pre-emergence followed by 2,4-D (0.75 kg a.i. ha−1) as post-emergence demonstrated superior efficacy in weed suppression and augmentation of crop growth parameters and yield attributes. These treatments also exhibited the lowest weed index and highest benefit–cost ratio. The May 10 sowing, coupled with efficacious weed control measures, significantly reduced weed density and biomass while concomitantly improving nutrient uptake and economic returns. The results indicate that adopting a May 10 sowing date for direct seeded rice, in conjunction with either four conoweedings or the aforementioned sequential herbicide application, can optimize agronomic productivity and economic profitability under the temperate conditions of Kashmir. The study aided in choosing the best sowing window and efficient weed management strategy for attaining higher productivity and profitability of direct seeded rice in temperate conditions.

Aging is a complex, multifactorial, and inevitable process, which begins before birth and continues throughout the life. Multimorbidity prevailing among the geriatric population is an important health challenge for most of the developing countries. To examine the effect of gender and increasing age on the survival of the geriatric population suffering from multimorbidity. A cross-sectional study was conducted among the geriatric population of the Jammu district, J and K, using multistage sampling procedure, and the analysis was conducted using the Kaplan-Meier method and survival analysis using software IBM SPSS version 24.0. Our study included 1150 study subjects, of whom 610 (53%) were males and 540 (47%) were females, respectively. It was indicated that the probability for the survival of the study population suffering from morbidity belonging to 60–64 years was higher than the survival of the geriatric population belonging to other age-groups or we can say that survival probability of the geriatric population suffering from morbidities decreases with the increase in age. Also, it was reported that probability for the survival of the female geriatric population suffering from morbidity was slightly higher than the survival of the male geriatric population. Gender had no significant effect on survival of the geriatric population suffering from morbidities, whereas baseline age had a significant effect on the survival of the geriatric population suffering from morbidities as their survival probability decreases with the increase in age.

Abstract Background Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram-positive bacterium, poses a significant threat to public health and food safety due to its virulence and its ability to develop antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Moreover, S. aureus can form biofilms in food environments, making it difficult to eradicate and pose a major challenge in foodborne illness prevention. Methods The study aimed to investigate the biofilm-forming capabilities and AMR profiles of 107 S. aureus isolates derived from milk, chicken meat, and chicken eggs. Further, the study compared the biofilm formation tendencies between multi-drug resistant (MDR) and non-MDR S. aureus isolates. Additionally, the research explored the antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus casei, focusing on their aggregation and co-aggregation effects with S. aureus. Results Around 70.10% of S. aureus isolates were found to be resistant to at least three antibiotic classes. The biofilm assay revealed that 16.82% isolates were strong biofilm formers. The MDR isolates displayed a strong biofilm-forming ability (i.e., 18.67%) and a higher prevalence of biofilm-associated genes [i.e., icaA (53.33%) and icaD (44.0%)] compared to non-MDR isolates. The LAB strain, L. rhamnosus exhibited a 29.06 mm mean antibacterial inhibition zone, an average reduction of 48.19% in biofilm growth, 55.46% auto-aggregation, and 40.61% co-aggregation with S. aureus. Similarly, L. casei demonstrated a 21.80 mm mean antibacterial inhibition zone, an average reduction of 31.56% in biofilm growth, 45.23% auto-aggregation, and 36.81% co-aggregation with S. aureus isolates. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the biofilm formation of MDR S. aureus and underscores the potential of L. rhamnosus and L. casei as bio-control agents. These findings highlight the necessity for additional research into the mechanisms through which LAB strains inhibit pathogenic biofilms and their potential applications in enhancing food safety.

Abstract To sustainably increase wheat yield to meet the growing world population’s food demand in the face of climate change, Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a promising approach. Still, there is a lack of genomic studies investigating the genetic basis of crop adaptation to CA. To dissect the genetic architecture of 19 morpho-physiological traits that could be involved in the enhanced adaptation and performance of genotypes under CA, we performed GWAS to identify MTAs under four contrasting production regimes viz., conventional tillage timely sown (CTTS), conservation agriculture timely sown (CATS), conventional tillage late sown (CTLS) and conservation agriculture late sown (CALS) using an association panel of 183 advanced wheat breeding lines along with 5 checks. Traits like Phi2 (Quantum yield of photosystem II; CATS:0.37, CALS: 0.31), RC (Relative chlorophyll content; CATS:55.51, CALS: 54.47) and PS1 (Active photosystem I centers; CATS:2.45, CALS: 2.23) have higher mean values in CA compared to CT under both sowing times. GWAS identified 80 MTAs for the studied traits across four production environments. The phenotypic variation explained (PVE) by these QTNs ranged from 2.15 to 40.22%. Gene annotation provided highly informative SNPs associated with Phi2, NPQ (Quantum yield of non-photochemical quenching), PS1, and RC which were linked with genes that play crucial roles in the physiological adaptation under both CA and CT. A highly significant SNP AX94651261 (9.43% PVE) was identified to be associated with Phi2, while two SNP markers AX94730536 (30.90% PVE) and AX94683305 (16.99% PVE) were associated with NPQ. Identified QTNs upon validation can be used in marker-assisted breeding programs to develop CA adaptive genotypes.

Background: Severe Cognitive Impairment (CI) is a major cause of disability and dependency among the elderly worldwide, and it has a significant impact not only on individuals but also on families, communities, and societies. Early identification and management of CI are critical in geriatric medicine. Prevalence data is often scarce, and this hinders the ground-level implementation of preventive health programs. Objectives: The objective was to find the prevalence of CI and its covariates among the urban geriatric population of Haryana. Materials and Methods: This was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted among 300 geriatric participants residing in an urban area of Rohtak district, Haryana. Hindi Mental State Examination (HMSE) tool was used to assess CI. Data were analyzed using IBM Corp, released 2020, IBM SPSS statistics for windows Ver 20, Armonk, NY. Results: The prevalence of geriatric CI was found to be 27.3% and was found to be significantly associated with age, female gender, scheduled and backward caste (BC), widowhood, and low educational status and is not engaged in any occupation, low socioeconomic status, teetotalism, economic dependency, physical dependency on others, and chronic morbidity. Conclusion: Age, female gender, scheduled and backward caste, widowhood, low educational status, nil employment status, low socioeconomic status, teetotalism, economic dependency, physical dependency on others, and chronic morbidity were found to be important correlates of CI. Further analytical studies can focus on these aspects for an early targeted preventive approach.

Urinary dysfunction following treatment for rectal adenocarcinoma is a common and complex complication. We present a case of a 69-year-old male who underwent laparoscopic-assisted left hemicolectomy and loop ileostomy after receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy for rectal adenocarcinoma. Postoperatively, it was incidentally discovered the patient had urinary frequency and urgency. Cystoscopy revealed radiation changes to the bladder walls and a bladder leak was confirmed by cystogram. The patient underwent successful repair of the urinary bladder leak, with challenges posed by prior radiation therapy. Effective prevention and management strategies for urinary dysfunction require a comprehensive preoperative risk assessment, consideration of nerve-preserving surgical techniques, and prompt identification and repair of postoperative complications.

Introduction: Research conducted during the first wave of COVID-19 in India and world over has highlighted its psychological impact among health-care workers (HCWs), which kindled the current study of the aftermath of the second wave among HCWs. Objectives: The objective was to study the correlation between demographic factors, resilience, burnout, and stress among doctors and nurses working at a dedicated COVID-19 hospital (DCH) during the second wave. Methodology: The DCH doctors (residents and faculty) and nurses willing to participate in the online survey using Google forms were assessed cross-sectionally using a semi-structured questionnaire for demographic factors and psychometric scales – abbreviated Nicholson McBride Resilience Questionnaire, abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory, and Perceived Stress Scale-10 to measure resilience, burnout, and stress, respectively. The data were analyzed using Chi-square test and Pearson’s coefficient for correlation. Results: Out of 169 voluntary participants, 24.9% had severe perceived stress, 21% had moderate-to-severe burnout, and 49.7% had exceptional level of resilience. Severe perceived stress was seen in the lower age group (P = 0.018) and more in graduates than in postgraduates (P = 0.044). Moderate-to-severe burnout was seen in unmarried (P = 0.02), in junior doctors (P = 0.021), in those working in intensive care unit, fever clinic, and triage area (P = 0.038), and in those living away from family (P = 0.014). Exceptional level of resilience was statistically significant in nursing staff (P = 0.026). There was a statistically significant correlation between perceived stress and burnout (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The psychological impact of second wave was less among HCWs as compared to the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract Of all gynecologic cancers, epithelial-ovarian cancer (OCa) stands out with the highest mortality rates. Despite all efforts, 90% of individuals who receive standard surgical and cytotoxic therapy experience disease recurrence. The precise mechanism by which leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and its receptor (LIFR) contribute to the progression of OCa remains unknown. Analysis of cancer databases revealed that elevated expression of LIF or LIFR was associated with poor progression-free survival of OCa patients and a predictor of poor response to chemotherapy. Using multiple primary and established OCa cell lines or tissues that represent five subtypes of epithelial-OCa, we demonstrated that LIF/LIFR autocrine signaling is active in OCa. Moreover, treatment with LIFR inhibitor, EC359 significantly reduced OCa cell viability and cell survival with an IC50 ranging from 5-50 nM. Furthermore, EC359 diminished the stemness of OCa cells. Mechanistic studies using RNA-seq and rescue experiments unveiled that EC359 primarily induced ferroptosis by suppressing the glutathione antioxidant defense system. Using multiple in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models including cell-based xenografts, patient-derived explants, organoids, and xenograft tumors, we demonstrated that EC359 dramatically reduced the growth and progression of OCa. Additionally, EC359 therapy considerably improved tumor immunogenicity by robust CD45+ leukocyte tumor infiltration and polarizing tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) toward M1 phenotype while showing no impact on normal T-, B-, and other immune cells. Collectively, our findings indicate that the LIF/LIFR autocrine loop plays an essential role in OCa progression and that EC359 could be a promising therapeutic agent for OCa.

Background: Meta-syndromic groups with cognitive and relational impairment include both autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID). When it comes to individuals with intellectual difficulties, autistic traits are often unexplored unless they reach the level of the syndrome. The presence of both autism and ID increases disability percentage. Aim: To study the presence of autistic symptoms in individuals with ID. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational study in which after informed consent from caretakers of patients with ID, clinical history and sociodemographic details were recorded. Further Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA) was administered for evaluation of autistic features. Statistical analysis of the data was done using the Chi-square test and Spearman’s correlation. Results: Out of 150 subjects with ID, 18% (n = 27) were diagnosed with comorbid ASD. A statistically significant (P value =

Background: Amputation significantly impacts an individual’s physical and psychological well-being. It is essential to understand these implications of amputation as well as the coping and resilience of amputees as part of comprehensive patient care. Aim: To study depression, anxiety, coping, and resilience among tertiary care amputee cases. Materials and Methods: Consecutive 100 amputees seeking treatment in a tertiary care hospital were included in the study with their consent after ethics committee approval. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Brief Resilience Scale (BRS-6), and Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS-21) scale were administered. The data were analyzed using the SPSS software with the Chi-square test and Spearman’s correlation. Results: Depression affected a significant majority (67%) of patients, while anxiety was present in one-third (33%) of individuals. Certain sociodemographic factors and clinical parameters such as age group, residence, socioeconomic status, side of amputation, and duration of amputation showed statistically significant correlations with depression, anxiety, and low resilience. Emotional coping was positively correlated to anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.001) while task coping was negatively correlated to anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.001). Resilience was negatively correlated to anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.001). Conclusion: There exists a significant burden of depression and anxiety in amputees. Those with positive coping and high resilience were better at adjusting to amputation than those with emotion-based coping and low resilience.

The excellent mechanical strength with low weight of polymer-based composites makes them superior over conventional materials like steel and aluminum in terms of mechanical properties. Nowadays, researchers are working to develop natural fiber-based sustainable composite. Glass fiber, when combined with jute fiber, could greatly enhance the mechanical characteristics of composites; the sequence of the layers mostly determines these properties. In this study, the hybrid laminate of jute and glass fiber with resin polyester is developed with The representative volume element utilized in ANSYS. In ANSYS material design module, the 3D microstructure of composite material is created with various fiber volume fractions of glass fiber and jute fiber. After that, the effective elastic properties of hybrid jute/glass fiber and polyester as matrix, glass fiber/polyester, and jute fiber/polyester are evaluated and the simulation-based effective elastic property is validated by existing experiment value which showed good agreement. For further study, in Ansys ACP PrepPost, the composite laminate such as hybrid jute + glass fiber/polyester, glass fiber/polyester, and jute fiber/polyester is created with desired lamina thickness, stacking sequence, and fiber orientation. Thereafter, it was transferred to a static structure module to perform tensile and bending test analysis. Ansys ACP post-processing is utilized to investigate stress induced at each lamina of the composite specimen. This study revealed that by adding glass fiber to natural fiber, the mechanical performance is enhanced significantly, whereas hybrid jute + glass fiber/polyester (S2) demonstrated the highest tensile strength 259 MPa compared to other hybrid laminate composites. Astonishingly, The hybrid composite jute + glass/polyester (S2) exhibited 10 % higher bending strength than glass fiber/polyester (S1) and 64 % more than net jute fiber/polyester (S5). Additionally, S2 demonstrated 9.5 % higher shear strength compared to S1 and 64 % more than S5. This study will give a great understanding of how adding glass fiber to jute fiber, could enhance the mechanical properties, which will contribute to the design of an efficient composite part for automotive such as car interiors, car doors, trim panels, lightweight applications, and packaging industries.

Introduction A substantial proportion of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on intravenous infliximab require dose intensification. Accessing additional intravenous infliximab is labour-intensive and expensive, depending on insurance and pharmaceutical reimbursement. Observational data suggest that subcutaneous infliximab may offer a convenient and safe alternative to maintain disease remission in patients requiring dose-intensified infliximab. A prospective, controlled trial is required to confirm that subcutaneous infliximab is as effective as dose-intensified intravenous infliximab, to identify predictors of disease flare and to establish the role of subcutaneous infliximab therapeutic drug monitoring.Methods and analysis The DISCUS-IBD trial is an investigator-initiated, prospective, multicentre, randomised, open-label non-inferiority study comparing the rate of disease flares in participants randomised to continue dose-intensified intravenous infliximab to those switched to subcutaneous infliximab after 48 weeks. Participants are adult patients with IBD in sustained corticosteroid-free remission on any regimen of dose-intensified infliximab up to a maximum of 10 mg/kg 4-weekly intravenously. Participants allocated to intravenous infliximab will continue infliximab at the same dose-intensified regimen they were receiving at study enrolment. Subcutaneous infliximab dosing will be stratified by prior intravenous infliximab dosing. Clinical (Harvey-Bradshaw Index, partial Mayo score), biochemical (C reactive protein, faecal calprotectin), pharmacokinetic (drug-level±antidrug antibodies) and qualitative data are collected 12-weekly until study conclusion at week 48. 13 sites across Australia will participate in recruitment to reach a calculated sample size of 120 participants.Ethics and dissemination Multisite ethics approval was obtained from the Health District Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) at The Alfred Hospital under a National Mutual Acceptance (NMA) agreement (HREC/90559/Alfred-2022; Local Reference: Project 618/22, version 1.6, 2 March 2023). Findings will be reported at national and international gastroenterology meetings and published in peer-reviewed journals. DISCUS-IBD was prospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) prior to commencing recruitment.Trial registration number ACTRN12622001458729.

Summary: Bone tissue represents the most frequent site of cancer metastasis. We developed a hemichannel-activating antibody, Cx43-M2. Cx43-M2, directly targeting osteocytes in situ, activates osteocytic hemichannels and elevates extracellular ATP, thereby inhibiting the growth and migration of cultured breast and osteosarcoma cancer cells. Cx43-M2 significantly decreases breast cancer metastasis, osteosarcoma growth, and osteolytic activity, while improving survival rates in mice. The antibody’s inhibition of breast cancer and osteosarcoma is dose dependent in both mouse and human cancer metastatic models. Furthermore, Cx43-M2 enhances anti-tumor immunity by increasing the population and activation of tumor-infiltrating immune-promoting effector T lymphocytes, while reducing immune-suppressive regulatory T cells. Our results suggest that the Cx43-M2 antibody, by activating Cx43 hemichannels and facilitating ATP release and purinergic signaling, transforms the cancer microenvironment from a supportive to a suppressive state. Collectively, our study underscores the potential of Cx43-M2 as a therapeutic for treating breast cancer bone metastasis and osteosarcoma.

An investigation was conducted at the Horticulture field Invertis University, Bareilly with a study “Impact of NPK, FYM and Vermicompost on growth and yield of radish (Raphanus sativus L.)” during rabi season (2022–23). The experiment was arranged in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Among the all different eight treatments, the treatment T6 (75 % RDF+25% Vermicompost) was recorded significantly maximum plant height (15.56 cm), number of leaves (11.60), leaf length (11.29 cm), leaf width (5.90 cm), leaf fresh weight per plant (135.50 g), root fresh weight per plant (94.30 g) and Yield (23100 kg/ha), Yield (23.10 t/ha) of radish tender roots after harvesting were also recorded maximum with the treatment T6.

Introduction Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a prevailing condition widely affecting mobility. However, many non-invasive treatments have been proposed for LSS. Physiotherapy is reported as more commonly used with very little evidence reporting the efficacy of alternative medicine. For clinicians, there was a need to find a better mode of treatment. The purpose of this paper is to compare the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions and alternative medicine for leg pain, back pain, and walking distance in patients with LSS. Methods Data sources: PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for papers published in the previous 5 years (2016–2020). The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted from September 2021 to December 2021 at the Musculoskeletal Research Lab of Maharishi Markandeshwaer Institute of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation. Study selection and outcomes: randomised controlled trials (RCT), randomised clinical trials, randomised cross-over trials, quasi-RCTs, and non-RCTs were included if they evaluated the effects of physiotherapy or alternative medicine on pain and walking distance in patients with LSS. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Self-paced walk test (SPWT), and treadmill walking were used as outcome measures. All the authors independently screened and extracted data from the 8 studies retrieved through the search using a pilot-tested performa. The quality of studies was assessed using the PEDro scale and the Cochrane risk of bias criteria. Results Meta-analysis was performed using a fixed-effects model that showed (1) Physiotherapy was more effective than the control in improving leg pain. The Standardised mean difference (SMD) (95% CI) in the NRS score for leg pain was found to be 1.12 (0.83, 1.40); (2) Physiotherapy was more effective than the control in improving back pain. The SMD (95% CI) in the NRS score for back pain was 0.29 (−0.18, 0.76); (3) Physiotherapy was more effective than the control in improving walking distance. The SMD (95% CI) for walking distance was found to be 144.59 m (133.16 m, 159.02 m). Conclusions The results of the present study indicate that physiotherapy has higher significant results than alternative medicine in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

The oldest and most extensively cultivated form of millet, known as pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. Syn. Pennisetum americanum (L.) Leeke), is raised over 312.00 lakh hectares in Asian and African countries. India is regarded as the significant hotspot for pearl millet diversity. In the Indian state of Haryana, where pearl millet is grown, a new and catastrophic bacterial disease known as stem rot of pearl millet spurred by the bacterium Klebsiella aerogenes (formerly Enterobacter) was first observed during fall 2018. The disease appears in form of small to long streaks on leaves, lesions on stem, and slimy rot appearance of stem. The associated bacterium showed close resemblance to Klebsiella aerogenes that was confirmed by a molecular evaluation based on 16S rDNA and gyrA gene nucleotide sequences. The isolates were also identified to be Klebsiella aerogenes based on biochemical assays, where Klebsiella isolates differed in D-trehalose and succinate alkalisation tests. During fall 2021–2023, the disease has spread all the pearl millet-growing districts of the state, extending up to 70% disease incidence in the affected fields. The disease is causing considering grain as well as fodder losses. The proposed scale, consisting of six levels (0–5), is developed where scores 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 have been categorized as highly resistant, resistant, moderately resistant, moderately susceptible, susceptible, and highly susceptible disease reaction, respectively. The disease cycle, survival of pathogen, and possible losses have also been studied to understand other features of the disease.

Abstract Structural resolution of protein interactions enables mechanistic and functional studies as well as interpretation of disease variants. However, structural data is still missing for most protein interactions because we lack computational and experimental tools at scale. This is particularly true for interactions mediated by short linear motifs occurring in disordered regions of proteins. We find that AlphaFold-Multimer predicts with high sensitivity but limited specificity structures of domain-motif interactions when using small protein fragments as input. Sensitivity decreased substantially when using long protein fragments or full length proteins. We delineated a protein fragmentation strategy particularly suited for the prediction of domain-motif interfaces and applied it to interactions between human proteins associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. This enabled the prediction of highly confident and likely disease-related novel interfaces, which we further experimentally corroborated for FBXO23-STX1B, STX1B-VAMP2, ESRRG-PSMC5, PEX3-PEX19, PEX3-PEX16, and SNRPB-GIGYF1 providing novel molecular insights for diverse biological processes. Our work highlights exciting perspectives, but also reveals clear limitations and the need for future developments to maximize the power of Alphafold-Multimer for interface predictions.

The current investigation delves into the convective heat and mass transfer characteristics of third-grade radiative nanofluid flow within a porous medium over a Riga plate configuration. The Riga plate structure incorporates magnets and electrodes strategically arranged on a plate surface. To enhance the accuracy of energy and concentration expressions within the third-grade fluid flow, the Cattano Christov Double Diffusion model is employed. Entropy generation analysis is conducted by applying the second law of thermodynamics, and Darcy's model is employed to characterize the behavior of a porous medium. Appropriate similarity transformations have been used to convert the partial differential equations monitoring the fluid flow model into dimensionless ordinary differential equations. The Galerkin weighted residual method is employed to resolve these equations numerically. The findings contain detailed explanations of how relevant factors affect the temperature field, concentration field, velocity field, entropy generation, and Bejan number, in addition to graphic representations of the results. The findings indicate that the medium's porosity and Brinkman number promote entropy generation. The Bejan number and entropy production is affected by the thermal radiation parameter, which first rises and then declines after a certain distance.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2020–21, 2021–22 and 2022–23 at College of Agriculture, Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner, Rajasthan to identify the appropriate bacterial strains and irrigation levels to enhance drought tolerance and productivity in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.]. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design assigning irrigation treatments (no irrigation, 50% deficit irrigation and normal level of irrigation) in main plots and microbes (MRD-17, MKS-6, Biophos and Biophos+, CRIDAMI-I, CRIDA MI-II and control) in sub plots. Results demonstrated that normal level of irrigation (2 irrigations) yielded superior outcomes in terms of plant height, dry matter accumulation, yield attributes, viz. seed yield (1542 kg/ha), stover yield (3677 kg/ha), relative water content (70.72%), protein content (18.1%), oil content (38.7%), water use efficiency (7.50 kg/ha-mm), net returns (₹52529/ha) and B:C ratio (2.07). This was significantly higher compared to 50% deficit irrigation and no irrigation treatments. Among microbial inoculants, CRIDA MI-II exhibited the highest impact on growth and yield attributes, viz. seed yield (1312 kg/ha), stover yield (3262 kg/ha), protein content (17.2%), water use efficiency (5.88 kg/ha-mm), net returns (₹42294/ha) and B:C ratio (1.72). Notably, it was statistically comparable to the effects of CRIDA MI-I and Biophos and Biophos+ across most parameters. The comprehensive results of this study advocated the strategic implementation of both optimal irrigation practices and microbial inoculants as a sustainable approach to enhance productivity and drought tolerance in Indian mustard, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan.

Building on research conducted in feminist organizations in Vancouver, British Columbia, on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, this paper explores the role, relationship, and responsibility of advocating for antiracism and social justice in the context of antiracism projects in feminist nonprofit organizations. In doing so this paper asks: What do antiracism projects look like in feminist organizations? And how are these projects informed or interrupted by racialized and Indigenous activists within these spaces? Using critical race theory’s composite counterstory, this paper uses storytelling methodologies to understand how racialized settlers and Indigenous folks can collaborate and thrive – as they have been doing – on occupied unceded territories in Canada. Based on a series of interviews with racialized and Indigenous activists engaging in feminist nonprofit organizations, these stories shed light on contemporary realities of colonization, including collaboration within white settler systems.

Pyogenic Granulomas (PGs) are benign vascular tumours primarily treated with surgical procedures. Recently, topical Timolol, a beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist, has been used for the treatment of PG due to its vasoconstrictive, anti-angiogenic, and wound healing properties. Herein, the authors presented a case series of 12 patients (10 males and two females) with red papules and nodules that spontaneously bleed. The age of the patients ranged from 7-51 years, and the duration of lesions ranged from one week to nine months. The lesions were located on the face, neck, hand, and mucosa. All patients were treated with topical Timolol maleate 0.5% drops twice daily for four weeks and followed-up weekly for four weeks. The treatment efficacy was evaluated based on complete response, partial response, or no response. Changes in colour, size, bleeding tendency, and adverse events were also assessed. Two patients showed complete resolution, while the bleeding tendency improved in the other patients. No side effects were encountered, except in one patient where the lesion increased in size and became secondarily infected. Thus, topical timolol appeared to provide symptomatic improvement by reducing bleeding and lesion size without any side effects. It can be considered as an alternative therapeutic option for small, uncomplicated classical PG.

Abstract Background Latin American and Hispanic women are less likely to develop breast cancer (BC) than women of European descent. Observational studies have found an inverse relationship between the individual proportion of Native American ancestry and BC risk. Here, we use ancestry-informative markers to rule out potential confounding of this relationship, estimating the confounder-free effect of Native American ancestry on BC risk. Methods and study population We used the informativeness for assignment measure to select robust instrumental variables for the individual proportion of Native American ancestry. We then conducted separate Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses based on 1401 Colombian women, most of them from the central Andean regions of Cundinamarca and Huila, and 1366 Mexican women from Mexico City, Monterrey and Veracruz, supplemented by sensitivity and stratified analyses. Results The proportion of Colombian Native American ancestry showed a putatively causal protective effect on BC risk (inverse variance-weighted odds ratio [OR] = 0.974 per 1% increase in ancestry proportion, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.970–0.978, p = 3.1 × 10–40). The corresponding OR for Mexican Native American ancestry was 0.988 (95% CI 0.987–0.990, p = 1.4 × 10–44). Stratified analyses revealed a stronger association between Native American ancestry and familial BC (Colombian women: OR = 0.958, 95% CI 0.952–0.964; Mexican women: OR = 0.973, 95% CI 0.969–0.978), and stronger protective effects on oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive BC than on ER-negative and triple-negative BC. Conclusions The present results point to an unconfounded protective effect of Native American ancestry on BC risk in both Colombian and Mexican women which appears to be stronger for familial and ER-positive BC. These findings provide a rationale for personalised prevention programmes that take genetic ancestry into account, as well as for future admixture mapping studies.

This study investigates the energy transfer mechanism between the organic polymer poly(2-methoxy-5(2’-ethyl)heroxyphenylenevinylene) (MEH−PPV) and CdSe/ZnS core-shell quantum dots (CdSe/ZnS CSQDs). Additionally, a hybrid ZnO-based photodetector (PD) is fabricated using the composite of MEH−PPV and CdSe/ZnS CSQDs, aiming to gain deeper insights. The combination of MEH−PPV and CdSe/ZnS CSQDs facilitates a broad spectral response in PDs, spanning from the ultraviolet (UV) to the visible range. In particular, PDs with QDs in the composite demonstrate notably excellent photosensitivity to both ultraviolet (UV) light (365 nm) (~5 fold) and visible light (505 nm) (~3 fold).

Abstract Spot blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana ((Sacc.) Shoemaker) (teleomorph: Cochliobolus sativus [Ito and Kuribayashi] Drechsler ex Dastur) is an economically important disease of warm and humid regions. The present study focused on identifying resistant genotypes and single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with spot blotch resistance in a panel of 174 bread spring wheat lines using field screening and genome‐wide association mapping strategies. Field experiments were conducted in Agua Fria, Mexico, during the 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 cropping seasons. A wide range of phenotypic variation was observed among genotypes tested during both years. Twenty SNP markers showed significant association with spot blotch resistance on 15 chromosomes, namely, 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 2D, 3A, 3B, 4B, 4D, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B. Of these, two consistently significant SNPs on 5A, TA003225‐0566 and TA003225‐1427, may represent a new resistance quantitative trait loci. Further, in the proximity of Tsn1 on 5B, AX‐94435238 was the most stable and consistent in both years. The identified genomic regions could be deployed to develop spot blotch‐resistant genotypes, particularly in the spot blotch‐vulnerable wheat growing areas.

Key Clinical Message Accurate diagnosis of rare neurological conditions like Balo's concentric sclerosis (BCS) is challenging but crucial for tailored treatment. Interdisciplinary collaboration and further research are essential to advance our understanding. Abstract This case report presents a 32‐year‐old female patient with a puzzling neurological condition characterized by feverish feelings, joint pain, unclear speech, and an unsteady gait. Initial management did not lead to improvement, and further examination revealed neurological involvement and joint tenderness without signs of inflammatory arthritis. Laboratory investigations ruled out infectious and autoimmune causes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed well‐defined lesions with concentric rings, leading to a diagnosis of Balo' concentric sclerosis. Treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone resulted in limited improvement. This case highlights the importance of thorough evaluation and collaboration in diagnosing rare neurological conditions. Further research is needed to enhance the understanding and treatment of rare neurological disorders.

Tuberous sclerosis (TS) is a rare multisystem autosomal dominant genetic disorder with characteristic pathognomonic genetic mutations involving the TSC (tuberous sclerosis complex) group of genes. Ocular signs are fairly common and include an achromic patch and retinal astrocytic hamartomas, which usually have a maximum size of between 0.5 and 5 mm. The incidence of tuberous sclerosis is estimated to be 1 in 5000−10,000 individuals, with both familial and sporadic cases reported. The diagnostic criteria for tuberous sclerosis include the presence of major and/or minor clinical features as well as genetic mutations. We present the case of a 15-year-old girl, presented with a history of seizures and blurred vision. Physical examination revealed angiofibroma on the face. Further evaluation, including contrast-enhanced MRI of the brain and ophthalmological consultation, led to the diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis. Additional imaging studies confirmed the presence of subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, retinal astrocytoma, lymphangioleiomyomatosis in the lungs, and renal angiomyolipoma. This case highlights the importance of considering tuberous sclerosis in patients presenting with seizures and ocular symptoms. This case sheds light on early diagnosis and appropriate management which are crucial in preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.

The intent of this study is to explore the physical properties and long-term performance of concrete made with metakaolin (MK) as a binder, using microsilica (MS) and nanosilica (NS) as substitutes for a portion of the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content. The dosage of MS was varied from 5% to 15% for OPC-MK-MS blends, and the dosage of NS was varied from 0.5% to 1.5% for OPC-MK-NS blends. Incorporation of these pozzolans accelerated the hardening process and reduced the flowability, consistency, and setting time of the cement paste. In addition, it produced a denser matrix, improving the strength of the concrete matrix, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The use of MS enhanced the strength by 10.37%, and the utilization of NS increased the strength by 11.48% at 28 days. It also reduced the penetrability of the matrix with a maximum reduction in the water absorption (35.82%) and improved the resistance to the sulfate attack for specimens containing 1% NS in the presence of 10% MK. Based on these results, NS in the presence of MK can be used to obtain cementitious structures with the enhanced strength and durability.

The mpox (previously monkeypox) outbreak in more than 100 non-endemic countries in 2022 posed a serious global health concern. Mpox is emerging as a global public health threat from a seemingly neglected disease. A42R profilin-like protein from mpox virus (PDB ID: 4QWO) could be a preferred target lead. The binding affinity of commonly used drugs/mAbs (tecovirimat, brincidofovir, cidofovir) for A42R profilin-like protein was examined in silico through molecular docking. Further, the results were compared with those of the phytochemicals curcumin, rutin, and theaflavin. Tecovirimat (−7.31 kcal/mol, IC50 = 4.39 µM) and theaflavin (−6.99 kcal/mol, IC50 = 7.54 µM) had the highest affinities. Molecular dynamics simulation of the theaflavin–4QWO complex was performed to ascertain the stability of ligand–protein interactions in natural charge, molecular electrostatic potential, and frontier molecular orbital analyses. The predicted QSAR and pharmacokinetic properties of all compounds were evaluated to find a suitable candidate for designing and developing new drugs. The evaluated log P values for brincidofovir and tecovirimat were higher than those of the other drugs in the QSAR study. Theaflavin had an impressive log P of 4.77, which hints at its high biological activity. The findings recommend further in vitro experimental validation to develop potential low-cost mpox therapies.

Abstract Apple cankers are extremely destructive diseases threatening the global apple industry through direct and indirect losses. The population structure of the pathogens is of paramount significance for the development of efficient management strategies. Therefore, phenotypic, pathogenic, and genetic diversity of Diplodia seriata causing black rot canker of apple was investigated in this study. All the isolates were included for investigating the in vitro mycelial growth, conidial dimensions, and pathogenic variability on two-year-old potted apple seedlings. The ISSR approach was used to investigate the molecular diversity of D. seriata. Mycelial growth rates were found to vary significantly amongst the isolates; however, there were no major variations seen between the different geographical groupings of isolates. Pathogenicity tests revealed variations in the size of cankers among the isolates indicating the presence of virulence variability. The isolates were segregated into three virulence groups based on canker length. The Bayesian analyses of ISSR data divided the isolates into two genetic clusters. The genetic clustering of the isolates revealed no relationship with geographical origin of the isolates. Furthermore, no direct relationship of genetic clustering was observed with morphological or pathogenic variability. The ISSR primers revealed very high level of variability in D. seriata; however, no distinct populations of the pathogen existed which is an indication of high level of gene flow between the diverse geographical populations. According to our knowledge, this is the first thorough investigation on the diversity of D. seriata associated with apple black rot canker in India.

Abstract Background Breast cancer (BC) patients with a germline CHEK2 c.1100delC variant have an increased risk of contralateral BC (CBC) and worse BC‐specific survival (BCSS) compared to non‐carriers. Aim To assessed the associations of CHEK2 c.1100delC, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment with CBC risk and BCSS. Methods Analyses were based on 82,701 women diagnosed with a first primary invasive BC including 963 CHEK2 c.1100delC carriers; median follow‐up was 9.1 years. Differential associations with treatment by CHEK2 c.1100delC status were tested by including interaction terms in a multivariable Cox regression model. A multi‐state model was used for further insight into the relation between CHEK2 c.1100delC status, treatment, CBC risk and death. Results There was no evidence for differential associations of therapy with CBC risk by CHEK2 c.1100delC status. The strongest association with reduced CBC risk was observed for the combination of chemotherapy and endocrine therapy [HR (95% CI): 0.66 (0.55–0.78)]. No association was observed with radiotherapy. Results from the multi‐state model showed shorter BCSS for CHEK2 c.1100delC carriers versus non‐carriers also after accounting for CBC occurrence [HR (95% CI): 1.30 (1.09–1.56)]. Conclusion Systemic therapy was associated with reduced CBC risk irrespective of CHEK2 c.1100delC status. Moreover, CHEK2 c.1100delC carriers had shorter BCSS, which appears not to be fully explained by their CBC risk.

Abstract Background Genome-wide studies of gene–environment interactions (G×E) may identify variants associated with disease risk in conjunction with lifestyle/environmental exposures. We conducted a genome-wide G×E analysis of ~ 7.6 million common variants and seven lifestyle/environmental risk factors for breast cancer risk overall and for estrogen receptor positive (ER +) breast cancer. Methods Analyses were conducted using 72,285 breast cancer cases and 80,354 controls of European ancestry from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium. Gene–environment interactions were evaluated using standard unconditional logistic regression models and likelihood ratio tests for breast cancer risk overall and for ER + breast cancer. Bayesian False Discovery Probability was employed to assess the noteworthiness of each SNP-risk factor pairs. Results Assuming a 1 × 10–5 prior probability of a true association for each SNP-risk factor pairs and a Bayesian False Discovery Probability

Abstract Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition which affects women in the reproductive age group. South Asian women with PCOS have a higher risk of insulin resistance and metabolic disorder compared to women from other ethnic backgrounds. Lifestyle interventions such as dietary advice and physical exercise are recommended as a first-line management option for infertile women with PCOS. Most of the randomized controlled trials evaluating the role of lifestyle interventions in infertile PCOS women were characterized by methodological issues. The uptake of lifestyle modifications as a treatment strategy in the South Asian population is complicated by a difficult-to-change conventional high-carbohydrate diet and limited availability of space for physical activity in the region. Methods The study is designed as an open-label, multicentre, randomized controlled trial in South Asian women with PCOS. Women attending the fertility clinic will be screened for eligibility, and women aged between 19 and 37 years who have been diagnosed with PCOS and wishing to conceive will be invited to participate in the trial. We will include women with body mass index (BMI) between ≥ 23 and ≤ 35 kg/m2 and duration of infertility ≤ 3 years. We plan to randomize women with PCOS into two groups: group A will receive the intervention which will consist of individualized advice on diet and physical exercise along with a telephonic reminder system and follow-up visits, and group B (control) will receive one-time advice on diet and physical exercise. Both groups will receive up to three cycles of ovulation induction with letrozole after 3 months of randomization during the 6-month treatment period. The primary outcome of the trial will be the live birth following conception during the intervention period. The secondary outcomes include clinical pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, ectopic pregnancy rate, stillbirth, time to pregnancy, mean weight loss, differences in anthropometric parameters, improvement in menstrual regularity and quality of life score. Discussion The IPOS trial results could help clarify and provide more robust evidence for advocating an individualized lifestyle intervention in PCOS women who wish to conceive. Trial registration Clinical Trial Registry of India CTRI/2023/04/051620. Registered on 13 April 2023.

Purpose: This paper studies a 3-dimensional pallet loading problem considering interlock stacking pattern, box dimensions, humidity, and storage time, where overlapping and overhanging are not allowed. Despite the importance of this problem in the literature, our work provides the first method that considers the environmental conditions such as 1) storage time and 2) humidity, and their tremendous impacts on the strength of the boxes, as has been observed widely in the DHL supply chain. Design/methodology/approach: This paper proposes a two-phase heuristic algorithm to solve a 3-dimensional pallet loading problem under real conditions (relative humidity, and storage time) considering interlock stacking patterns, where overlapping and overhanging are not allowed. In phase 1, the horizontal layer configuration is determined by block techniques. Three types of horizontal layers are created based on box dimensions perpendicular to the base. In phase 2, a novel mathematical model is propounded to improve the pallet volume utilization, and stability considering the pallet's maximum allowable height and weight, and the dynamic compression strength of boxes. The dynamic compression strength of boxes is calculated by the modified McKee formula. Two performance measures, pallet volume utilization and stability (load height), are utilized to evaluate the performance of the proposed heuristic algorithm in real-world instances (DHL Supply Chain). Findings: The results illustrated that the dynamic compression strength of boxes decreases as the relative humidity and storage time increase. The load height changes dynamically along with box dimensions, box alignment, direction, relative humidity, and storage time. Increasing relative humidity and storage time and applying an interlock stacking pattern reduce the pallet utilization, however, enhance the pallet stability. Finally, the proposed heuristic algorithm's efficacy increases as the identical boxes dimensions' heterogeneity increases. Originality/value: It is believed in the supply chain where these characteristics are observed, the implementation of the heuristic algorithm will help them improve the pallet volume utilization and stability.

A novel approach for qualitative seasonal forecast of precipitation at a basin scale is presented as significant enhancement in seasonal forecast at regional and country scales in India. The process utilizes empirical and typically lagged relationships between target variables of interest, namely precipitation at the basin level and various large-scale climate predictors (LSCPs). A total of 14 LSCPs have been considered for the seasonal forecast of precipitation with lead times of 1, 2, and 3 months in the Kosi Basin, India. Random split training and testing were conducted on seven machine-learning (ML) models using a potential predictor dataset for model selection. The Logistic Regression (LR) model was adopted since it had the highest mean accuracy score compared to the remaining six ML models. The LR model has been optimized by testing it on all possible combinations of potential predictors using Leave-One-Out Cross-Validation (CV) scheme. The resulting Seasonal Prediction Model (SPM) provides the probability of each tercile categorized as Above Normal (AN), Normal (N), and Below Normal (BN). The model has been evaluated using various metrics. HIGHLIGHTS A basin-scale approach is presented instead of a larger country scale.; Use of large number of large-scale climate predictors for the development of an ML -based categorical forecast model.; The methodology is generic in nature and can be applied to any other basins.; Directions for further research are suggested for the generation of weather ensembles, automatic climate predictors, and for model operationalization.;

Abstract Copper-based catalyst is uniquely positioned to catalyze the hydrocarbon formations through electrochemical CO2 reduction. The catalyst design freedom is limited for alloying copper with H-affinitive elements represented by platinum group metals because the latter would easily drive the hydrogen evolution reaction to override CO2 reduction. We report an adept design of anchoring atomically dispersed platinum group metal species on both polycrystalline and shape-controlled Cu catalysts, which now promote targeted CO2 reduction reaction while frustrating the undesired hydrogen evolution reaction. Notably, alloys with similar metal formulations but comprising small platinum or palladium clusters would fail this objective. With an appreciable amount of CO-Pd1 moieties on copper surfaces, facile CO* hydrogenation to CHO* or CO-CHO* coupling is now viable as one of the main pathways on Cu(111) or Cu(100) to selectively produce CH4 or C2H4 through Pd-Cu dual-site pathways. The work broadens copper alloying choices for CO2 reduction in aqueous phases.

Abstract We assessed the PREDICT v 2.2 for prognosis of breast cancer patients with pathogenic germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants, using follow-up data from 5453 BRCA1/2 carriers from the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA1/2 (CIMBA) and the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC). PREDICT for estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancer had modest discrimination for BRCA1 carrier patients overall (Gönen & Heller unbiased concordance 0.65 in CIMBA, 0.64 in BCAC), but it distinguished clearly the high-mortality group from lower risk categories. In an analysis of low to high risk categories by PREDICT score percentiles, the observed mortality was consistently lower than the expected mortality, but the confidence intervals always included the calibration slope. Altogether, our results encourage the use of the PREDICT ER-negative model in management of breast cancer patients with germline BRCA1 variants. For the PREDICT ER-positive model, the discrimination was slightly lower in BRCA2 variant carriers (concordance 0.60 in CIMBA, 0.65 in BCAC). Especially, inclusion of the tumor grade distorted the prognostic estimates. The breast cancer mortality of BRCA2 carriers was underestimated at the low end of the PREDICT score distribution, whereas at the high end, the mortality was overestimated. These data suggest that BRCA2 status should also be taken into consideration with tumor characteristics, when estimating the prognosis of ER-positive breast cancer patients.

Suicidal behaviours among young people in India are a major public health problem. An understanding of the reasons for suicide attempts from survivor perspectives is essential to developing suicide prevention programs for this population, as these can provide valuable insights into concerns that are unique to young people, and direct the focus of such programs towards these specific concerns. Qualitative studies are best suited for eliciting such perspectives, but such studies in India are lacking. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 47 persons between the ages of 15 and 29 who had been admitted to a public hospital in Pune, India, following a suicide attempt. Participants were asked to describe in their own words, what they believed was the reason for the attempt. Data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis and summative content analysis. There were three broad factors that interacted to lead to suicide attempts – background factors (individual and environmental factors that increased vulnerability); psychological distress (emotional and cognitive states that led to suicidal ideation); and intervening factors (factors that facilitated transition from distress to the attempt). The most common pattern was the occurrence of an interpersonal stressor shortly before the attempt, which produced distorted cognitions, and overwhelming emotions – usually of anxiety or anger - with ready access to means and/or impulsivity being the final catalysts. This stressor was generally a trigger associated with long-standing problems involving partners or family members, which had already produced intolerable distress over time. Female participants appeared particularly vulnerable to these stressors, partly due to prevailing socio-cultural norms. Our findings suggest the need for suicide prevention programs in India to foster life skills for young people, engage with high-risk groups (for example, women), and restrict access to harmful substances. Family stakeholders need to be involved in the implementation.

AbstractGlobally, Rice (Oryza sativa) is one of the most important crops. In India cultivars majorly use wash root type seedlings for rice production. The objective of the study was to assess the influence of transplanting techniques for transplanting wash root paddy seedlings. Two types of mechanical transplanting techniques (two-row hand cranked rice transplanter and tractor operated rice transplanter) were evaluated for three different age of nursery and compared with manual transplanting. The performances for each technique were evaluated in terms of average hill spacing, missing index, multiple index, damage seedlings, floating/buried hills, number of hills/m2, planting efficiency, actual field capacity, field efficiency, energy required and cost of transplanting. Acquired results revealed that the best combination observed was tractor operated rice transplanter and 25 days of seedlings (desirability—0.764). The tractor operated rice transplanter increases the labor productivity by 32.22 times and saved about 66.69% average transplanting cost compared to manual transplanting, whereas it increases the labor productivity by 2.57 times and saved average 35.68% transplanting cost compared to hand crank rice transplanter. Manual transplanting causes non-uniform transplanting, higher missing index and cost of transplanting. Tractor operated rice transplanter at 25 days of seedlings was the best combination for transplanting due its superior techno-economics results.

The leaf blight diseases, Septoria nodorum blotch (SNB), and tan spot (TS) are emerging due to changing climatic conditions in the northern parts of India. We screened 296 bread wheat cultivars released in India over the past 20 years for seedling resistance against SNB (three experiments) and TS (two experiments). According to a genome-wide association study, six QTLs on chromosome arms 1BL, 2AS, 5BL, and 6BL were particularly significant for SNB across all three years, of which Q.CIM.snb.1BL, Q.CIM.snb.2AS1, Q.CIM.snb.2AS.2, and Q.CIM.snb.6BL appeared novel. In contrast, those on 5BS and 5BL may correspond to Snn3 and Tsn1, respectively. The allelic combination of tsn1/snn3 conferred resistance to SNB, whereas that of Tsn1/Snn3 conferred high susceptibility. As for TS, Tsn1 was the only stably significant locus identified in this panel. Several varieties like PBW 771, DBW 277, and HD 3319, were identified as highly resistant to both diseases that can be used in future wheat improvement programs as resistant donors.

Travel shopping has increasingly grown as an important element of the travel activity owing to the significant economic contribution to the tourism business. Although the significance of tourism purchasing is widely acknowledged, very less is documented pertaining to the behavioural intention as well as the desires of tourists. This paper investigates the perceived risks in Souvenir Buying of the domestic Indian tourists. A questionnaire was developed to measure the response from tourists holidaying in the UT of J&K. In first part of the questionnaire, demographic profile and travel style was enquired from the tourists whereas the other part of the questionnaire focused on measuring the risk perceived by tourists while buying souvenir. Probability of each perceived risk was calculated on 5-point Likert scale in 16 items. The findings indicate that the tourists coming to Jammu and Kashmir perceive financial risk as the highest risk involved in souvenir shopping, followed by psychological risk and fraud risk. The three unique risk factors identified in this study can be used by destination managers and service providers to create risk mitigation strategies and improve the visitor experience at the destination.

Background: COVID-19 has significantly impacted the care of children with chronic illness. There is a paucity of data on issues faced by parents of children with epilepsy (CWE) in an Indian setup. Objectives: The objective was to describe the parental perspective of the problems faced by them on the care of their CWE during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: Parents of CWE who physically visited the clinic for their follow-up visit were asked to narrate their experiences about the problems they faced during the first lockdown due to COVID-19. The narratives were audio recorded, and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis to arrive at broad themes. Results: Four broad themes were identified: transport-related issues, medication-related issues, issues related to doctor consultation, and diagnostic delay. Limited transportation facilities, lack of appropriate social distancing norms in public transport and outpatient units, rigorous frisking by personnel during travel, fear of viral transmission during outpatient visits, nonavailability of antiseizure medications (ASMs) in local markets, lack of discounts by pharmacy, change of brands of ASM, and inability to undergo scheduled diagnostic investigations were some of the major issues raised by parents of CWE. Conclusion: Parents of CWE had trouble in transport to the hospital, inadequate access to ASMs, difficulties in doctor consultation, and delays in diagnostic investigations during the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

Context: Children of alcoholics face risks of problem behavior during childhood and mental health problems in adult life. Identifying these problems at the earliest can significantly reduce the problems in future. Aim: We aimed to study psychological impact on adolescent children of parents with alcohol use disorder. Settings and Design: This is a cross-sectional study done at a tertiary care hospital in Maharashtra. Materials and Methods: Convenience sampling technique was used. One hundred adolescent children of alcohol use disorder patients were evaluated for problem behavior and perceived stress using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Perceived Stress Scale, respectively. Current status of severity of alcohol use in parents was assessed using the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Software Package (version 20.0). Results: In our study, we found that children whose fathers had severe alcohol dependence were exhibiting more externalizing behavior on CBCL and higher perceived stress and it was statistically significant. Conclusion: A positive correlation was found between severity of alcohol use in fathers and problem behavior in children.

ABSTRACTThe paper has focussed on the global landcover for the identification of cropland areas. Population growth and rapid industrialization are somehow disturbing the agricultural lands and eventually the food production needed for human survival. Appropriate agricultural land monitoring requires proper management of land resources. The paper has proposed a method for cropland mapping by semantic segmentation of landcover to identify the cropland boundaries and estimate the cropland areas using machine learning techniques. The process has initially applied various filters to identify the features responsible for detecting the land boundaries through the edge detection process. The images are masked or annotated to produce the ground truth for the label identification of croplands, rivers, buildings, and backgrounds. The selected features are transferred to a machine learning model for the semantic segmentation process. The methodology has applied Random Forest, which has compared to two other techniques, Support Vector Machine and Multilayer perceptron, for the semantic segmentation process. Our dataset is composed of satellite images collected from the QGIS application. The paper has derived the conclusion that Random forest has given the best result for segmenting the image into different regions with 99% training accuracy and 90% test accuracy. The results are cross-validated by computing the Mean IoU and kappa coefficient that shows 93% and 69% score value respectively for Random Forest, found maximum among all. The paper has also calculated the area covered under the different segmented regions. Overall, Random Forest has produced promising results for semantic segmentation of landcover for cropland mapping.

Background: Positioning of patients during surgery, whether prone or head down, can lead to airway edema which, in turn, may lead to a difficult airway, and enhanced chances for reintubation. We aimed to assess and evaluate modified Mallampati class (MMC) change in patients scheduled for lumbar spine surgery in the prone position. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 80 patients scheduled for lumbar spine surgery. The MMC was assessed up to 48 h postoperatively. The time taken by the patients in the postoperative period for MMC class to revert to preoperative value and airway complications, if any, was noted. Other parameters observed were surgical duration, intraoperative fluids used, and blood loss to look for any significant correlation with changes in MMC. Results: MMC increase by one grade was observed in 73 patients (91%). MMC in 54 patients (74%) returned to baseline within 18 h, in 12 patients (16%) it took 24 h, and in the remaining 7 patients (10%) the time taken was 36 h. Conclusion: It was concluded and established by this study that the MMC declined by one grade and reverted to baseline value within 36 h. This change in MMC necessitates extra caution to be adopted during the postoperative period as surgery in a prone position may predispose to an increased risk of encountering difficult reintubation. The change in MMC was not significantly correlated to intraoperative variables like duration of surgery, amount of intraoperative fluid given, and blood loss.

Wegener granulomatosis (WG) now known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an uncommon autoimmune disorder of undivulged etiology affecting the respiratory tract including paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, lungs, and kidneys predominantly. GPA presenting as a solitary renal mass is rarely seen. We present a case report of a 27-year-old female presenting with a right renal mass along with pain, low-grade fever, and arthralgia. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed a hypodense low attenuated renal mass with indistinct margins. Ultrasound-guided biopsy revealed features typical of GPA. She was started on oral steroids (prednisolone 40 mg) and azathioprine. She developed pain, vomiting, and diarrhea after starting treatment with azathioprine. Azathioprine was stopped and rituximab 1 g weekly was started for 4 weeks followed by 500 mg 6 monthly injections. She got symptomatic relief at 4 weeks with a diminution of renal mass at 6 months follow-up. We report this rare entity of WG presenting as renal mass. Suspecting and diagnosing renal mass as a part of GPA prevented us from undertaking unnecessary surgical treatment in this patient. Medical treatment with steroids and rituximab is effective in inducing remission and maintenance.