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Abstract The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) represents a highly promising alternative power source for small electronics and automobiles due to its low operating temperatures, high efficiency, and energy density. The methanol oxidation process (MOR) constitutes a fundamental chemical reaction occurring at the positive electrode of a DMFC. Pt-based materials serve as widely utilized MOR electrocatalysts in DMFCs. Nevertheless, various challenges, such as sluggish reaction rates, high production costs primarily attributed to the expensive Pt-based catalyst, and the adverse effects of CO poisoning on the Pt catalysts, hinder the commercialization of DMFCs. Consequently, endeavors to identify an alternative catalyst to Pt-based catalysts that mitigate these drawbacks represent a critical focal point of DMFC research. In pursuit of this objective, researchers have developed diverse classes of MOR electrocatalysts, encompassing those derived from noble and non-noble metals. This review paper delves into the fundamental concept of MOR and its operational mechanisms, as well as the latest advancements in electrocatalysts derived from noble and non-noble metals, such as single-atom and molecule catalysts. Moreover, a comprehensive analysis of the constraints and prospects of MOR electrocatalysts, encompassing those based on noble metals and those based on non-noble metals, has been undertaken.

Dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) mediates multiple neuronal stress responses, and its expression levels are constantly suppressed to prevent excessive stress signaling. We found that Wallenda (Wnd), the Drosophila ortholog of DLK, is highly enriched in the axon terminals of Drosophila sensory neurons in vivo and that this subcellular localization is necessary for Highwire-mediated Wnd protein turnover under normal conditions. Our structure-function analysis found that Wnd palmitoylation is essential for its axon terminal localization. Palmitoylation-defective Wnd accumulated in neuronal cell bodies, exhibited dramatically increased protein expression levels, and triggered excessive neuronal stress responses. Defective intracellular transport is implicated in neurodegenerative conditions. Comprehensive dominant-negative Rab protein screening identified Rab11 as an essential factor for Wnd localization in axon terminals. Consequently, Rab11 loss-of-function increased the protein levels of Wnd and induced neuronal stress responses. Inhibiting Wnd activity significantly ameliorated neuronal loss and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling triggered by Rab11 loss-of-function. Taken together, these suggest that DLK proteins are constantly transported to axon terminals for protein turnover and a failure of such transport can lead to neuronal loss. Our study demonstrates how subcellular protein localization is coupled to protein turnover for neuronal stress signaling.

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a clinical condition caused by multiple factors, such as drugs, viruses, and vascular causes. It is defined as coagulopathy and encephalopathy occurring in a time span of

Background: Hypothyroidism is the result of impaired production and secretion of thyroid hormones. The cardiovascular system is affected by fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels. Stressful events or stressors can affect the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis and psychological and physiological responses. Stress increases thyroid hormone levels while decreasing TSH levels, which exacerbates autoimmune thyroid disease. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between stress and primary hypothyroidism. Methods: A total of 77 newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients (TSH >5.0 mIU/L) and 77 healthy adults (TSH 0.5–5.0 mIU/L) were enrolled. During a brief general physical examination, the following values were measured: height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and pulse rate. A brief systemic examination of the cardiovascular system and lungs was also performed to rule out systemic diseases. Heart rate variability (HRV) processing and analysis were performed using Pro LabChart (PowerLab 8Pro) data analysis software from AD Instrument. Results: Mean Avg. RR was significantly higher, RM SSD and pRR50 were significantly lower in cases than in controls. Mean HF was significantly lower and LF/HF (frequency range) was significantly higher in cases than in controls. Mean PSS was significantly higher in cases (25.82 ± 2.83) than in controls (22.47 ± 2.10). The majority of cases (54.5%) had a high stress level. The TSH level showed a highly significant correlation with the LF/HF ratio and with the PSS score. Conclusion: The mean Avg. RR and HF were significantly higher, RM SSD and pRR50 and LF/HF (frequency range) were significantly lower in hypothyroid patients.

In the present study, different Pseudomonas strains were isolated from the rhizospheric soil of Curcuma longa (turmeric) and further identified and characterized based on morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics through the 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. The identified bacterial strains belong to the Pseudomonas genus viz. Pseudomonas sp. CL10, Pseudomonas sp. CL11, and P. fluorescence CLI4. However, the isolated strains tested positive for IAA production, siderophore production, and the solubilization of tricalcium phosphate during plant growth promoting traits analysis. Further phenotype microArray (PM) technology was used to evaluate the antibiotic and chemical sensitivity of the isolated bacterial strains. The antibiotics phleomycin, oxacillin, vancomycin, novobiocin, spiramycin, and rifampicin, as well as chemicals like, 5-7 dichloro-8-hydroxy quanaldine, 5-7 dichloro-8-hydroxyquinoline, domophenbrobide, and 3-5 dimethoxy benzyl alcohol, showed resistance in all the rhizobacterial strains. However, upon further detailed study, Pseudomonas sp. CL10 exhibited resistance to thirteen antibiotics, CL11 to fourteen, and CL14 showed resistance against seventeen antibiotics and chemical classes. The results of the study indicate that some of these strains can be used as bioinoculum to enhance the plant growth and health.

To cure SARS-CoV-2 infection, the repurposing of conventional antiviral drugs is currently advocated by researchers, though their action is not very effective. The present study, based on in silico methods, was intended to increase the therapeutic potential of conventional drugs: hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), favipiravir (FAV), and remdesivir (REM) by using curcuminoids like curcumin (CUR), bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC), and demethoxycurcumin (DMC) as adjunct drugs against SARS-CoV-2 receptor proteins, namely main protease (Mpro) and the S1 receptor-binding domain (RBD). The curcuminoids exhibited similar pharmacokinetic properties to the conventional drugs. The webserver (ANCHOR) predicted greater protein stability for both receptors with a disordered score (

Signalling pathways in malaria parasite remain poorly defined and major reason for this is the lack of understanding of the function of majority of parasite protein kinases and phosphatases in parasite signalling and its biology. In the present study, we have elucidated the function of Protein Kinase 2 (PfPK2), which is known to be indispensable for the survival of human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We demonstrate that it is involved in the invasion of host erythrocytes, which is critical for establishing infection. In addition, PfPK2 may also be involved in the maturation of the parasite post-invasion. PfPK2 regulates the release of microneme proteins like Apical Membrane Antigen 1 (AMA1), which facilitates the formation of Tight Junction between the merozoite and host erythrocyte- a key step in the process of invasion. Comparative phosphoproteomics studies revealed that PfPK2 may be involved in regulation of several key proteins involved in invasion and signalling. Furthermore, PfPK2 regulates the generation of cGMP and the release of calcium in the parasite, which are key second messengers for the process of invasion. These and other studies have shed light on a novel signalling pathway in which PfPK2 acts as an upstream regulator of important cGMP-calcium signalling, which plays an important role in parasite invasion.

Purpose: Aim of this study is to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice among the pharmacists/medical shopkeepers regarding “over the counter” prescription of topical eye steroid. Method: It is a prospective cross-sectional questionnaire-based observational study, carried out among 60 pharmacists/pharmacy shopkeepers. Result: Out of 60 participants, 40% had been sensitized regarding topical steroid misuse. 16% had seen complications following OTC dispensing, and 83% had never seen complications following OTC dispensing of medications. 50% were of the opinion of banning the OTC dispensing of ocular medications, 41.6% were against it, and 8.33% were of no opinion. Conclusion: Doctors and pharmacists play a crucial role regarding spreading awareness of self-medication. Government should take proper initiative in educating patients to discourage the unethical and irrational dispensing of medicine by pharmacists.

Nasal mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare and aggressive tumor, first described by Lucke in 1869. It accounts for 0.5%–2% of all melanomas. Its incidence is more in fair skinned individuals, and most commonly seen in the mean age of 60 years with slight male predominance. MMs are associated with poor prognosis and overall less survival rates as symptoms develop slowly; therefore, many patients are lately diagnosed. An Indian female in her early 50s came to the ear, nose, and throat outpatient department with complaints of bleeding from her nose for 20 days and mass in the right nasal cavity. On examination, a dirty black mass arising from the septum and deviated nasal septum to the right side were noted on rhinoscopy. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed features of nasal polyp. Fine-needle aspiration cytology was performed and found to be inconclusive. A punch biopsy was done and sent for histopathological examination (HPE), tiny biopsy showed features suggestive of melanosis with focal atypia. After 3 months, the patient reported with recurrence of nasal mass that was progressive in size. An excision biopsy was performed by endoscopic surgery under local anesthesia and sent for HPE. To confirm the diagnosis, immunohistochemistry was performed by application of S100, HMB45, and vimentin (after bleach treatment) showed diffuse strong intensity nuclear and cytoplasmic positivity in all pigmented cells. Thereafter, diagnosis of “Nasal mucosal melanoma” was awarded.

Objective: To assess public awareness regarding endodontic treatment and assess patients' knowledge regarding endodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was prepared and given to 300 patients who had visited the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics between November 2021 and October 2022, after obtaining ethical clearance and consent from all the participants. The questionnaire included sociodemographic details and about their knowledge about endodontic treatment. The collected data were tabulated and analyzed. Statistical Analysis: Data analysis was performed using methods of descriptive statistics like frequency and percentages. Results: We found that most of the respondents had an average level of knowledge regarding endodontic treatment. Conclusion: We observed an improvement in knowledge and perception regarding endodontic treatment.

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Context: Accumulated evidence suggests that X-radiations can induce genotoxic effects and are not safe at any particular radiation dose level. Various assays have been proposed as potential tools in cytogenetic biomonitoring studies, but they have limitations. Aims of the Study: To assess the genotoxic effects of panoramic radiography on oral mucosa by estimating micronuclei count (using acridine orange) and AgNORs (using silver stain) from cytological smear cells and to compare these two biomarkers. Material and Methods: 100 subjects who underwent panoramic radiography for dental treatment with pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria formed the sample for this cross-sectional study. Two smears were prepared using a cytobrush from the buccal mucosa wet fixed using 95% ethyl alcohol. After 10 days and 40 days, the subjects were recalled for a similar repetition of smear preparations from the same site. Before all the procedures, ethical approval was obtained from the institute's ethical committee where the study was conducted, and written informed consent was taken from all the patients before they participated in the study. Statistical Analysis: The results obtained were further assessed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc Tukey's HSD for inter and intra observational comparisons. Results: Radiation exposure from panoramic radiography showed a statistically significant increase in micronuclei. However, the AgNOR count remained unchanged after radiation exposure. Conclusion: MN count is better for detecting the short-term genotoxic effect of panoramic radiation exposure on buccal mucosal cells than AgNORs.

The course of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in pregnancy is unpredictable with outcome trends ranging from milder disease with zero mortality to severe forms and deaths in different parts of the world. We did a comprehensive review of the literature to understand maternal deaths due to COVID-19 in detail. The search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases, using the keywords “maternal mortality”, “maternal death”, “COVID-19”, “septic shock” and “DIC”. The search included original articles, review articles, case reports published till date. We found varying case fatality rates ranging from 0.1% to 12.9%. There are various predictors of maternal death, notably the presence of symptoms, comorbidities, severe disease with cytokine storm and multi-organ dysfunction. We also report higher maternal deaths from low-resource regions owing to gaps in expected and delivered maternal care. While reviewing our institutional data, we found 3 maternal deaths related to COVID-19 in pregnancy. We discussed our experience at our institute of three COVID-19 related maternal mortalities to add evidence to the present data. Most maternal deaths occurred in postpartum period. Late referral, loss to follow-up and inadequate care were important determinants of maternal mortality. We concluded that pregnancy cases with or without complications must be considered high risk and addressed judiciously beginning from infection prevention, early diagnosis, disease categorization, and multidisciplinary approach of management to prevent morbidity and mortality. We strongly suggest strengthening the health care delivery system to save pregnant women from dying, particularly in low-resource countries.

Diagnosing a urinary tract infection (UTI) is typically a clinical procedure involving multiple steps. The need to perform a test depends on the presence of relevant symptoms. Given the current pandemic situation, visiting a clinic may not be a preferable choice for many users. Many vulnerable groups of patients, namely, males with certain predispositions and pregnant women, may not present with symptoms of UTI and may go undiagnosed, which could give rise to a more complicated situation. So far, microbial cultures have been used as the gold standard for the diagnosis of an infection. However, performing microbial cultures currently requires trained professionals and laboratory grade equipment. Therefore, there is a need for a home-use culture kit that can serve this purpose. To our knowledge, no such kit exists. Here, we present a feasibility study of an affordable and easy-to-use home-based setup for quantifying bacterial load in a urine. We believe that such a system can be used by people at home to monitor recurrent UTI infections and also by physicians to remotely monitor and prescribe narrow-spectrum antibiotics for more effective treatment.

Multifarious plant growth-promoting Bacillus strains recovered from rhizospheric soils of the Indo Gangetic plains (IGPs) were identified as Bacillus licheniformis MNNITSR2 and Bacillus velezensis MNNITSR18 based on their biochemical characteristics and 16S rDNA gene analysis. Both strains exhibited the ability to produce IAA, siderophores, ammonia, lytic enzymes, HCN production, and phosphate solubilization capability and strongly inhibited the growth of phytopathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani and Fusariun oxysporum in vitro. In addition, these strains are also able to grow at a high temperature of 50 °C and tolerate up to 10–15% NaCl and 25% PEG 6000. The results of the pot experiment showed that individual seed inoculation and the coinoculation of multifarious plant growth promoting (PGP) Bacillus strains (SR2 and SR18) in rice fields significantly enhanced plant height, root length volume, tiller numbers, dry weight, and yield compared to the untreated control. This indicates that these strains are potential candidates for use as PGP inoculants/biofertilizers to increase rice productivity under field conditions for IGPs in Uttar Pradesh, India.

Glutathione (GSH) is an abundant tripeptide that can enhance plant tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress. Its main role is to counter free radicals and detoxify reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in cells under unfavorable conditions. Moreover, along with other second messengers (such as ROS, calcium, nitric oxide, cyclic nucleotides, etc.), GSH also acts as a cellular signal involved in stress signal pathways in plants, directly or along with the glutaredoxin and thioredoxin systems. While associated biochemical activities and roles in cellular stress response have been widely presented, the relationship between phytohormones and GSH has received comparatively less attention. This review, after presenting glutathione as part of plants’ feedback to main abiotic stress factors, focuses on the interaction between GSH and phytohormones, and their roles in the modulation of the acclimatation and tolerance to abiotic stress in crops plants.

Background: Protective role of estrogen in COVID-19 was speculated once the epidemiological studies reported increased susceptibility of estrogen-deficient population – males and postmenopausal females to severe disease category and involvement of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system in pathophysiology. Materials & Methods: An open-label randomized controlled trial was planned to assess the efficacy of short-course oral estradiol in preventing the clinical progression to severe disease and reduce case-fatality rate and the hospital stay duration in estrogen-deficient postmenopausal women. The intervention group (n = 40) received 2 mg per day of estradiol valerate per orally for 7 days along with the standard care, while the control group (n = 40) received only the standard care. Results: A significant difference was observed in the rate of reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction negativization in the intervention versus control group at day 5 and day 7 of admission (42.5% vs. 15%, P = 0.007; 72.5% versus 50%, P = −0.026). No significant difference was noted in the duration of hospitalization (P = 0.213). A significant decrease was noted in the mean values of inflammatory biomarkers – D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, and C-reactive protein on day 5 in the intervention group. Interleukin-6 also showed a declining trend on day 5 in the intervention group, while a rising trend was noted in the control arm. Only one case (2.5%) in the intervention group while seven in the control group (17.5%) progressed to the moderate category; however, the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.057). Conclusion: Oral estradiol in postmenopausal females can be a novel and efficient option for managing nonsevere COVID-19 infection.

Objective: This study was conducted to formulate locationwise radiologic diagnostic algorithms and assess their concordance with the final histopathological diagnosis of intracranial mass lesions to evaluate their utility in a rural setting where only basic facilities are available. Material and Method: In present study seventy two cases were analyzed.Histopathological evaluation was done from biopsy sample sent in formalin, tissue processing was done by standard procedure, tissue sections were routinely stained by H&E, immunohistochemical examination was performed in case of histopathological discrepancies. Radiological findings were correlated with histopathological diagnosis and concordances were calculated. Statistical Analysis: Frequencies and crosstabs were used for calculation. Result: This was a study of seventy-two patients with age ranging from 9months to 65 years. In these entire 72 cases, male patients were 42(58%), female patients were 30(42%). M: F was 1.38:1. Most of patient presented with headache, and frontal lobe was the most common location. In all these lesions, 88.8% cases were neoplastic lesions. Among all neoplastic lesions, 52.7% were malignant tumors and 34.7% were benign tumors. Among all malignant tumors, Astrocytoma was the most common malignant tumor.Meningioma was the second most commonly encountered lesion. In the present study radiological and histopathological correlation was present in84.7% of cases. IHC was performed wherever needed, to support diagnosis. Conclusion: Radiological investigations are reliable diagnostic tools for space occupying central nervous system lesions, but histopathology is still the gold standard. So multidisciplinary approach is the ideal approach for space occupying lesions of central nervous system

In 2014, 157 years after the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, several unidentified human skeletons were discovered in an abandoned well at Ajnala, Punjab. The most prevailing hypothesis suggested them as Indian soldiers who mutinied during the Indian uprising of 1857. However, there is an intense debate on their geographic affinity. Therefore, to pinpoint their area of origin, we have successfully isolated DNA from cementum-rich material of 50 good-quality random teeth samples and analyzed mtDNA haplogroups. In addition to that, we analyzed 85 individuals for oxygen isotopes (δ18O values). The mtDNA haplogroup distribution and clustering pattern rejected the local ancestry and indicated their genetic link with the populations living east of Punjab. In addition, the oxygen isotope analysis (δ18O values) from archaeological skeletal remains corroborated the molecular data and suggested the closest possible geographical affinity of these skeletal remains toward the eastern part of India, largely covering the Gangetic plain region. The data generated from this study are expected to expand our understanding of the ancestry and population affinity of martyr soldiers.

Background: Amoora rohituka is described in Ayurveda, an Indian traditional system of medicine for management of disorders of blood, diseases of eye, helminthiasis disease, ulcer, liver disorders and splenomegaly. However, the leaves were not reported to have anticancer properties till date. Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of leaf extracts of Amoora rohituka. Materials and methods: The leaves powder was macerated in petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol and evaluated their anticancer activities in vitro. The phytochemical constituents of the active (ethyl acetate) extract were screened by FTIR analysis and phytochemical screening methods. Results: The ethyl acetate extract (RLEA) showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, saponins and terpenoids. The RLEA exhibited high cytotoxic effect against human breast cancer cells, MCF-7 (IC50 = 9.81 μg/mL) and induced apoptosis by altering nuclear morphology and DNA laddering. Wound healing assays explained the potency of extract to decrease the cell migration. Conclusion: The extract of Amoora rohituka leaves exhibited anticancer activity with less toxicity and it could be used for development of alternative drugs in the treatment of human breast cancer.

Background: COVID-19 has shown a definite association with gender, a predilection for males in terms of morbidity and mortality. The indirect evidence of the protective effect of estrogen has been shown by Channappanavar, in the animal model and Ding T. in a multihospital study from China, suggesting menopause as independent risk factor and estrogen is negatively correlated with severity. Objective: Study the clinical profile and outcomes in premenopausal and menopausal. Covid-19-infected women and analyzed the effect of menstrual status on the outcome. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study conducted on 147 mild and moderate category COVID-19 females admitted between May and August 2020 using hospital records and telephonic follow-up. Two groups formed based on menstrual status: group-1 (premenopausal/estrogenic) and Group-2 (menopausal/hypoestrogenic). Hospital stay duration was considered as primary, while the category of disease on admission, clinical course, the requirement of oxygen, and mortality and residual symptoms were taken as a secondary outcome to compare the groups. Results: Overall Group-1 had significantly more of mild disease, while Group-2 had moderate cases (39 [76.5%] vs. 14 [14.6%] P < 0.01). Menopausal group has significantly more requirement of oxygen (32 [62.7%] vs. 20 [20.8%]), ventilation (14 [27.5%] vs. 1 [1%]) progression-to-severe disease (23.5% vs. 7.3%) and prolonged hospital stay ([14.1 ± 8.9 vs. 8.6 ± 3.9 days] P < 0.01). However, multivariate logistic regression failed to show a significant association between hospital stay and progression with menopause. Ferritin and residual symptoms found significantly higher in menopausal. Conclusions: No definite association was found between menopause and COVID-19 outcome with hospital stay duration or disease progression in our study.

Background: Dengue has emerged as a major public health problem in India. It presents more aggressively among younger age groups as compared to adults. Therefore, it necessitates the accurate estimation of prevalence in younger age groups. Materials and Method: Of all the 1026 clinically suspected cases of dengue up to the age of 18 years were enrolled in this study and grouped into four age groups (Group I -

Connective tissue disorders are a group of disorder of unknown etiology. Mixed connective tissue disorder is a distinct syndrome with combination of features of Systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis,dermatomyositis/polymyositis and rheumatoid arthritis. We report a case of mixed connective tissue disorder in a patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome which is to the best of our knowledge is very rare presentation.

Here we examine the effects of different carrier based bioinoculants on the growth, yield and nutritional value of chickpea and on associated soil nutrients. A consortium of two taxonomically distinct endophytic bacteria—Ensifer adhaerens MSN12 and Bacillus cereus MEN8—have promising plant growth promoting (PGP) attributes. We demonstrate their delivery from the laboratory to the field via the formulation of an effective bioinoculant with economic and accessible carriers. Sugarcane straw ash (SCSA) was found to be an efficient carrier and bioformulation for enhancing viability and shelf-life of strains up to 12 months. A bioformulation containing an SCSA-based consortium (MSN12 + MEN8) increased seed germination by 7%, plant weight by 29%, length by 17%, seed-yield by 12%, harvesting index by 14% and proximate nutritional constituents by 20% over consortium treatment without SCSA. In addition, the bioformulation of post-harvest treated soil improved the physico-chemical properties of the soil in comparison to a pre-sowing SCSA-based bioformulation treated crop, being fortified in different proximate nutritional constituents including dry matter (30%), crude protein (45%), crude fiber (35%), and ether extract (40%) in comparison to the control. Principal component analysis and scattered matrix plots showed a positive correlation among the treatments, which also validates improvement in the soil nutrient components and proximate constituents by T6 treatment (MSN12 + MEN8 + SCSA). The above results suggest efficiency of SCSA not only as a carrier material but also to support microbial growth for adequate delivery of lab strains as a substitute for chemi-fertilizers.

Background: Despite several programs and policies to turn down the burden of malnutrition in the country, the rank of India in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) is 102 among 117 countries, which indicates a serious hunger situation. It is essential to design more specific interventions by focusing on the key determinants that may directly or indirectly influence malnutrition in India.Methods: Utilizing data from the National Family and Health Survey-4 (NFHS) (2015-16), we developed a structural equation model to find the direct, indirect, and total effect of various determinants on stunting, wasting, and underweight. We used spatial analysis to identify local occurrences of factors that are critical in controlling malnutrition. A p-value of 0.05 was considered to be significant throughout the study. Analysis was performed using STATA (version 15.1MP) and GeoDa software (version 1.14).Results: A final sample of 90, 842 children of 0–24 months of age was selected for the analysis. The CFI and TLI values of 0.98 and 0.93, respectively, are indicative of a good fit model. Moran's I value of global spatial autocorrelation for the widespread presence of diarrhea, poor drinking water source, exclusive breastfeeding, low birth weight, no prenatal visits, poor toilet facility was observed to be 0.446, 0.638, 0.345, 0.439, 0.620, and 0.727, respectively.Conclusion: A robust direct relation was observed for diarrhea, exclusive breastfeeding, and children born with stunting, underweight, and wasting. The variables associated indirectly with the outcome variables were the education of the mother, residence, and desired pregnancy. The identification of hotspots through spatial analysis would help revive control strategies in the affected area according to geographical needs. It is extensively addressed that interventions related to health and nutrition during the first 1, 000 days of life is crucial to seize the upshoot of growth floundering among children.

Background: Existence of smear layer in root canals caused by instrumentation is believed to prevent penetration of irrigating agents, thereby resulting in endodontic treatment. Aims and Objectives: To compare and evaluate the effectiveness of two irrigants: 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and mixture of tetracycline isomer, an acid, and a detergent (MTAD) as final agents for eliminating the smear layer. Materials and Methods: We included 50 human lower premolar teeth whose crowns were sectioned at cementoenamel junction. The sample was randomly grouped into five groups, each with 10 teeth. Group 1: 1mL of 17% EDTA as final rinse for 1min, Group 2: 1mL of 17% EDTA for 30s, Group 3: 5mL of MTAD for 2.5min, Group 4: 5mL of MTAD for 5min, and Group 5: saline. The specimens were sectioned vertically all along the long axis and fixed on an aluminum stub for gold ion sputtering. Scanning electron microscope was used to observe the specimens, and photomicrographs were taken at coronal, middle, and apical thirds of canal, and assessed by Torabinejad scoring system by two examiners, and the observations were analyzed statistically. Results: When Group 1 and Group 2 and Groups 3 and 4 were compared, we found a significant variation in removal of smear layer at cervical and middle thirds, and insignificant difference at apical third. In comparison with EDTA and saline, MTAD was more efficient significantly in middle and cervical thirds and insignificant at apical third. Conclusion: MTAD is an efficient irrigant for removing smear layer than EDTA and saline.

Background: Menstruation is a normal physiological phenomenon for females indicating her capability for procreation. Menstrual problems are common in adolescent girls, which may affect their life and outdoor activities. Adolescent girls with abnormal body mass index (BMI) suffer even more often. Objectives: To assess the relationship between menstrual patterns and problems with BMI among adolescent school girls of Delhi. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study conducted among 210 adolescent school girls of Delhi. Permission was obtained from principal of the school and written informed consent was taken from the parents of the school girls before taking part in the study. All the data were collected, entered, and analyzed in SPSS 17.0. The data were analyzed using percentages and proportions through tables. Results: Out of 210 adolescent girls, 114 (54.3%) were having BMI 50% of the girls were undernourished. Only 13 (6.2%) of adolescent girls were overweight. Adolescent girls who had BMI

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of periodontal disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients of North India. Materials and Methods: A total of 500 patients fulfilling the selection criteria were initially given a health questionnaire to gather information regarding their demographic characteristics, attitude for oral hygiene, and disease status. Based on eligibility 427 patients were finally recruited for statistical analysis. A partial-mouth periodontal examination (PMPE) protocol which assessed one maxillary quadrant and one mandibular quadrant was used to examine three fixed sites per tooth (mesiobuccal, midbuccal, and distobuccal). Gingival Index, Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified, Debris Index-Simplified, Calculus Index-Simplified (CI-S), probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level were examined. Results: More than 90% (95.1%) of the total diabetic participants had some degree of periodontal destruction. Of the total population, 27.1% of participants had good oral hygiene, 68.8% had fair oral hygiene, and 3.9% had poor oral hygiene status. The prevalence of severe periodontitis in participants with good, fair, and poor oral hygiene status was reported as 0.8%, 17%, and 29.4%, respectively. The prevalence of severe periodontitis in participants with good, fair, and poor oral hygiene status with poor glycemic control (glycated hemoglobin ≥8%) was 2.5%, 28.1%, and 30.7%, respectively. Conclusion: This single-centered cross-sectional study represents that more than 95% of type 2 diabetic patients have some periodontal destruction. These results may act as baseline data to promote the collaborative integrated management of diabetes for reducing its burden on society.

In this study, five endophytic bacterial strains, namely Rhizobium pusense (MS-1), Bacillus cereus MS-2, Bacillus flexus (MS-3), Methylophilus flavus (MS-4), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MS-5), were used to investigate their potential role in the enhancement of growth yields of two types of tomato varieties, viz. hybrid and local, and in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The inoculation of bacterial strains enhanced the root and shoot length, biomass, and leaf chlorophyll contents. The fruit weight of the tomato (kg/plant) was also higher in the bacteria inoculated plants of both hybrid and local varieties than in the control (untreated). A significant increase was recorded in the fruit yield (g/plant) in all the treatments, whereas Methylophilus flavus (MS-4) inoculated plants yielded nearly 2.5 times more fruit weight compared to the control in the hybrid variety and two times higher in the local variety. The response to M. flavus as a microbial inoculant was greater than to the other strains. Biosynthesis of Ag nanoparticles was also carried out using all five endophytic bacterial strains. The weakest producers of AgNPs were Rhizobium pusense (MS-1) and Methylophilus flavus (MS-4), while Bacillus cereus MS-2, Bacillus flexus (MS-3), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MS-5) were strong producers of AgNPs. Nanoparticles were further characterized using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and revealed cuboidal shaped AgNPs in the Bacillus cereus MS-2 strain. In addition, the biosynthesized AgNPs showed antibacterial activity against various pathogenic and endophytic bacterial strains.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most intolerant crops to soil waterlogging, so to evaluate the response of 10 wheat varieties to waterlogging stress under sodic soils, a pot experiment was conducted during 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2014-15 at ICAR-CSSRI, Karnal. Critically important physiological data on increase in element concentrations of Fe, Mn, Al and B in shoots indicated key mechanisms of tolerance under waterlogging condition in sodic soils. Concentrations of Fe, Mn, Al and B in wheat genotypes were greater under waterlogging in normal and sodic conditions. However, uptakes of these elements also varied. Mean concentrations of 327, 434, 541 and 624 mg/kg for Fe; 38.3, 48.9, 48.4 and 72.9 mg/kg for Mn; 47, 147, 217 and 226 mg/kg for Al and 5, 22, 48 and 51 mg/kg for B were recorded in pH 8.2, pH 8.2 +WL, pH 9.4 and pH 9.4 +WL treatments, respectively. Besides Mn, the elements concentration in wheat was 3-6 times greater than critical limit for the above mentioned elements. Genotype HD 2189, was the best performer and showed minimum increase in shoot Fe, Mn, Al and B concentration both under higher pH and waterlogging, whereas Brookton showed maximum increase. KRL 3-4 performed better despite high Fe and Mn indicating higher tissue tolerance. These observations point towards identification of considerable genetic diversity for Fe, Mn, Al and B in wheat.

A frameshift mutation in Yippee-like (YPEL) 3 was recently found from a rare human disorder with peripheral neurological conditions including hypotonia and areflexia. The YPEL gene family is highly conserved from yeast to human, but its members’ functions are poorly defined. Moreover, the pathogenicity of the human YPEL3 variant is completely unknown. We generated a Drosophila model of human YPEL3 variant and a genetic null allele of Drosophila homolog of YPEL3 (referred to as dYPEL3). Gene-trap analysis suggests that dYPEL3 is predominantly expressed in subsets of neurons, including larval nociceptors. Analysis of chemical nociception induced by allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC), a natural chemical stimulant, revealed reduced nociceptive responses in both dYPEL3 frameshift and null mutants. Subsequent circuit analysis showed reduced activation of second-order neurons (SONs) in the pathway without affecting nociceptor activation upon AITC treatment. Although the gross axonal and dendritic development of nociceptors was unaffected, the synaptic contact between nociceptors and SONs was decreased by the dYPEL3 mutations. Furthermore, expressing dYPEL3 in larval nociceptors rescued the behavioral deficit in dYPEL3 frameshift mutants, suggesting a presynaptic origin of the deficit. Together, these findings suggest that the frameshift mutation results in YPEL3 loss of function and may cause neurological conditions by weakening synaptic connections through presynaptic mechanisms.

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit usually affects adolescents. It is seen on the face, neck, trunk and arms. The main pathogenic factors of acne are high sebaceous gland secretion, follicular hyper proliferation, high androgen effects, propionibacterium acnes colonization and inflammation. Objectives: To determine the presence of insulin resistance in moderate to very severe acne vulgaris. Material and Methods: One hundred sixty subjects were enrolled in the study consisting of 80 patients with moderate to very severe acne vulgaris and 80 age and sex-matched controls without acne. Fasting serum insulin and glucose levels were measured and insulin resistance was calculated by Homeostasis Model Assessment- Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) Index. The values were compared with the healthy control group. Results: Significant difference was observed in HOMA values and fasting insulin among the two groups (P < 0.001). The levels were significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group, whereas no significant difference was present in fasting glucose levels between the two group. Conclusions: In conclusion, insulin resistance was seen in majority of patients with acne. These results can add to the evidence regarding a potential association between metabolic dysregulation and acne.

In the present study, eight endophytic bacterial strains, namely Bacillus licheniformis R1, Bacillus sp. R2, Agrobacterium tumefaciens R6, uncultured bacterium R11, Bacillus subtilis RS3, Bacillus subtilis RS6, uncultured bacterium RS8 and Lysinibacillus fusiformis RS9, were isolated from the root of Momordica charantia L. All the strains, except R6 exhibited positive for IAA production, siderophore production, and phosphate solubilization during plant growth-promoting traits analysis. Strains invariably utilized glucose and sucrose as a carbon source during substrate utilization, while yeast extract, ammonium sulphate, ammonium chloride, glycine, glutamine, and isoleucine as nitrogen sources. In addition, Spectinomycin was found as the most effective during antibiotic sensitivity TEST, followed by Chloramphenicol, Erythromycin, Rifampicin and Kanamycin, while Polymixin B was found least effective, while strains R1, R6, and RS8 were sensitive to all the antibiotics. Strains R1 and RS6 were able to withstand tolerance up to 10% of NaCl. The strains showing resistance against broad-spectrum antibiotics, especially chloramphenicol, can be used in hospital waste management. In addition, strains with a tolerance of 10 % of NaCl can improve plant growth in the saline affected area.

A Li-CuFe2O4 thin film has a well-defined nanocrystalline structure with a crystallite size of ∼17 nm. The TEM and SEM images of the Li-CuFe2O4 thin film show a polyhedron shape of nanoparticles with uneven sizes, resulting in a significant change in its gas sensing characteristics such as sensitivity and sensor response. An optical analysis shows that the Li-CuFe2O4 thin film has a semiconducting nature, and the band gap of the thin film is determined to be 1.15 eV. The gas sensor analysis demonstrates repeatability of the sensing behavior of the Li-CuFe2O4 thin film and this ensures a reliable and efficient gas sensor at room temperature. Keywords: Gas sensor, Thin film, Surface growth, Ferrites

Legumes are a good source of bioactive components, besides being nutrient dense. These components have antioxidant properties and have a protective role against free radicals. Legumes like cowpeas are usually consumed after certain processing, so the present study was intended to assess antioxidant property of selected four cultivars of cowpea after going through various thermal (autoclaving, microwave, boiling, and roasting) and non-thermal (soaking and fermentation) processings. Thermal processing reduced total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) in all cultivars with respect to antioxidant activity of raw cultivars, while DPPH scavenging activity increased after all thermal treatments excluding few thermal processings. Non-thermal processing revealed increase in TPC, DPPH scavenging activity, and FRAP values, while TFC content showed a decreasing trend. A moderately high correlation between TPC and DPPH scavenging activity was observed in both kinds of thermal treatments indicating the role of phenolic compounds for antioxidant activity. It was concluded from the study that fermentation processing has promising effects on retention and enhancement of antioxidant activity of cowpea cultivars.

Anthropological techniques are evolving and expanding continuously to decode and interpret the hidden information embedded within human skeletal and dental remains as biological language. Various studies have been reported for sex estimation from odontometric features of the teeth found in forensic or bio-archaeological contexts. Though the accuracy levels of such methods is just close to forensic thresholds, they serve as significant adjuncts to identity assessments from other methods. Thousands of bones and teeth were excavated from a disused well found situated underneath a religious structure at Ajnala (Amritsar, India) in April 2014. In the present study, the sex of unknown molar teeth retrieved from Ajnala skeletal assemblage was estimated using the customized discriminant and logistic regression formulas generated from the odontometrics of known teeth collected from Northwest Indian subjects. Five hundred and eleven mandibular molars (254 modern and 257 Ajnala human teeth) were measured for eight buccolingual and mesiodistal diameters at different levels. The multivariate discriminant and logistic regression equations were developed from odontometrics of known teeth to classify 75.4% and 76.1% teeth to their sex category, respectively. These equations were applied to odontometrics of Ajnala teeth and their D-estimates were calculated. It was found that 83% and 96% Ajnala teeth were identified to be of males from the multivariate logistic regression and discriminant function analysis, respectively. It corroborated the written versions about the Ajnala skeletal remains belonged to male soldiers killed in 1857 by the colonial rulers. Keywords: Forensic odontology, Odontometrics, Sex estimation, Discriminant function and logistic regression analyses, Ajnala skeletal remains

Teeth are the most resistant and hardest structures of human body which are usually better preserved than other parts of skeleton and maintain their forensic odontological significance for a comparatively longer period of time. They retain their unique features even in the worst environmental conditions from taphonomic degradations to biological or chemical destructions. They can survive all sorts of natural or man-made disasters and the taphonomic destructions. Besides the unique odontological, molecular and chemical characteristics of teeth; the dental pathologies and structural anomalies also play crucial role in forensic identification of unknown human skeletal remains. The idiosyncratic features like tooth staining/coloration patterns, developmental defects, tooth wear and attritions, dental restorations/implants, cultural tooth modifications, tobacco or nut-chewing signs, occupational stigmas etc., act as valuable adjuncts to forensic examination of teeth found in forensic or bio-archaeological contexts. Dental pathologies and anomalies may reflect the oral hygiene, dietary patterns (like consumption of sweets and sugar, fats, proteins) socio-economic or socio-cultural, and the occupational status of an individual. Present review article presents a brief overview of different dental defects and their putative role in forensic anthropological identification of unknown human remains.

Age and stature estimation have apparent implications in personal identification in the events of murder, accidents or natural disaster mainly concern with forensic identification analysis. Self-reported anthropometric data is convenient and inexpensive, but relying on this data requires an accurate estimation of age and height. The biasness, precision, and accuracy of adult’s self-reported age and height across subpopulations were examined using a representative sample of adults. Aim of the present study is to report bias in an individual’s reported and documented age and height estimates. The study sample were included more than 200 young adult students (100 male and 100 female subjects approximately) from Panjab university, Chandigarh, age from 18 to 25. Linear and multiple regression analysis were done to formulate equations which would be helpful for estimation of stature and age from self-reported data for both male and females. The best correlation estimation in multiple and linear regression equations for age estimation in male was shown self-reported data whereas in females reported to be data from parents rather than self-reported data , females tends to decrease their age number as shown in results while in stature best variable is self-reported. The weakest correlation was reported to be data from close friends in both males and females.

Background: Anemia is one of the major public health problems in women of developing countries. Recent studies in India have shown that around 90% of adolescent girls are anemic. Objectives: To find the prevalence of anemia in adolescent school girls. Material and methods: It is a school based cross sectional study, in two randomly selected Government Schools of Delhi. Total of 210 adolescent girls were screened from both the schools. Dietary as- sessment and symptoms of anemia were also assessed. Results: A total of 210 girls were screened of which 203 (96.7%) were anemic. WHO criteria was used to classify anemia. Accord- ing to this criteria 93 (44.3%) were suffering from mild anemia, 101 (48.1%) moderate anemia and 9 (4.3%) were suffering from severe anemia. About 2/3rd of the study subjects (68.2%) had a history of skipping meals. History of consuming tea or coffee was very high (94.8%). Almost all (99%) of the adolescent school girls consume tea/coffee with meal or within 1 hour of taking meal. Conclusions: Anemia is highly prevalent amongst the adolescent school girls.

Background: Iron deficiency is the most common and widespread nutritional disorder in the world, affecting a large number of children and women in developing countries and constituting a public health condition of epidemic proportions. Weekly iron and folic acid supplementation (WIFS) with health education has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing anemia in adolescent school going girls. We assessed the impact of WIFS with and without health education on anemia in adolescent school girls of Delhi. Methods: This is a school-based intervention study conducted in two government senior secondary schools of Delhi. A total of 210 adolescent school girls from two schools were included in the study. In one school (intervention group), weekly ironfolic acid with health education once a month was given, and in the second school (control group), only WIFS was given for 6 months. Iron–folic acid supplementation containing 100 mg of elemental iron and 0.5 mg of folic acid was given on a weekly basis, and health education was provided once a month for 6 consecutive months. Hemoglobin (Hb) estimation was done at the beginning and the end of the study using the Hemocue method. Mean Hb change after intervention between the control and experimental groups was compared using a t test. Pre and post differences within the control and experimental groups were assessed using a paired-t test. Results: After intervention, there was a significant decline in prevalence of anemia in both the intervention (54.7 percentage points decline) and the control (26 percentage points decline) groups (P < 0.001). Conclusions: WIFS with once a month health education can be effective in reducing the prevalence of anemia in adolescent school girls.

Leaf of Adhatoda vasica (Vasaka) is an important drug of Ayurveda, prescribed as an expectorant. Quinazoline alkaloids present in the leaves are established as active principles. In Ayurveda, its leaf juice (Vasa swarasa) is incorporated in many formulations. Adhatoda vasica is a herb, also popularly known as Malabar nut in English, Adosa in Hindi and Vasaka in Sanskrit is used as botanicals against root knot nematodes. Parts of this plant used as medicinal value are leaves, roots, flower and stem bark. The leaves of Adhatoda vasica contain phytochemicals such as alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenolics and flavonoides. Several alkaloids are present in the leaves. The most important is vasicine, a quinazoline alkaloid responsible for the medicinal activity of the plant. It has been used in preparation of herbal medicines for the past 2000 years. Adhatoda vasica is also used to relieve respiratory disorders and cough. The herb is often grown as a hedge and its leaves and twigs are utilized as green- manure. Inspite of its use in medicinal value it has a good nematicidal properties.

Trace elements play an important and complex role in the human metabolism and, although present in only minute concentrations, can be either beneficial or detrimental to health. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the trace elements from human teeth are performed using various methods. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (or mass spectroscopy) (ICP-AES, MS) are the most popular methods for trace element analysis Previous studies have set the framework for developing methods aimed at elemental analysis from bones and teeth but there are areas in which the field still needs to progress. Research must be undertaken to expand the techniques to include more precision, non-destructiveness and accuracy and high detection limit, including additional human bones and teeth, non-human bones and teeth, non-skeletal materials, and to trace present and past life behaviours like migration pattern, nutrition status and occupational or environmental exposure, human provenance and reconstruction of migration pathways as well substance abuse in human skeletal remains and in living beings.

Malignant melanoma of nasal cavity is an extremely rare tumor with an incidence rate of 0.67% among all malignant melanomas. Melanomas are tumors arising from melanocytes that are neuroectodermal cells located in the basal layers of skin, skin adnexa, uveal tract, and occasionally in mucosal membranes. We report a case of malignant melanoma of nasal cavity in a 60-year-old female for its rare occurrence. These tumors have poor prognosis owing to high rates of locoregional recurrence and distant metastasis. We report this case without the symptom of epistaxis because of its rarity.