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Caenis ulmeriana Malzacher, 2015 is recorded for the first time from the Western Ghats, India. Prior records of this species encompass Java, Sumatra, Thailand, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Notably, the Indian population of C. ulmeriana showcases variability, including slight changes in the shape of forceps in the male subimago and increased denticulation in the midclaw, a reduced number of setae in the Y-ridge of tergalius II, and differing shape of sternum IX in the larvae compared to other continental and island populations. The species number of Caenis Stephens, 1835 has now increased to twelve in India. A distributional map detailing the range of C. ulmeriana in the Oriental region is also provided herein.

Moisture stress poses a significant threat to global agriculture, compromising crop yields and food security. In the quest for sustainable solutions, endophytic microorganisms have emerged as promising candidates for enhancing plant resilience to drought. The study's primary goal was to analyse the significance of bacterial endophytes, both rhizobial and passenger endophytes, in alleviating the effects of moisture stress. Here, PEG 6000 was used to test the drought endurance of the ten identified rhizobial and passenger endophytes. Rhizobium pusense S6R2, Enterobacter cloacae S23 and Bacillus tequilensis NBB13 were selected as best performing endophytes as they showed high tolerance of poly ethylene glycol (PEG) and maximum plant growth promoting traits like Indole Acetic Acid, exopolysaccharide production, biofilm formation, 1-aminocyclopropane1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity, siderophore, zinc and phosphorous solubilisation even in PEG induced moisture stress condition. Metabolite analysis revealed that twenty-four significant compounds mostly belong to fatty acyls, amino acids, peptides, polyketides, and benzenoids were found in the root exudates of groundnut treated with endophytes. The best-performing endophytes were used in a pot culture experiment, with groundnut as the test crop. The current study found that co-inoculation of Rhizobium pusense S6R2 and Enterobacter cloacae S23 significantly increased nodule number, growth, photosynthetic pigment, anti-oxidant enzymes, and osmolyte under moisture stressed conditions when compared to other treatments. As a result, co-inoculation of Rhizobium and entophytic bacteria may be recommended as a bio-inoculant for groundnut for moisture stress alleviation after confirming the results in field evaluation.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the molecular interactions and potential therapeutic uses of Eltrombopag (EPAG), a small molecule that activates the cMPL receptor. EPAG has been found to be effective in increasing platelet levels and alleviating thrombocytopenia. We utilized computational techniques to predict and confirm the complex formed by the ligand (EPAG) and the Thrombopoietin receptor (TPO-R) cMPL, elucidating the role of RAS, JAK-2, STAT-3, and other essential elements for downstream signaling. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to evaluate the stability of the ligand across specific proteins, showing favorable characteristics. For the first time, we examined the presence of TPO-R in human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSC) and human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSC) proliferation. Furthermore, treatment with EPAG demonstrated angiogenesis and vasculature formation of endothelial lineage derived from both MSCs. It also indicated the activation of critical factors such as RUNX-1, GFI-1b, VEGF-A, MYB, GOF-1, and FLI-1. Additional experiments confirmed that EPAG could be an ideal molecule for protecting against UVB radiation damage, as gene expression (JAK-2, ERK-2, MCL-1, NFkB, and STAT-3) and protein CD90/cMPL analysis showed TPO-R activation in both hUCMSC and hGMSC. Overall, EPAG exhibits significant potential in treating radiation damage and mitigating the side effects of radiotherapy, warranting further clinical exploration.

Recently, the injudicious use of herbicides in agriculture is causing numerous hazards that affect the environment and living organisms. To achieve the SDG 2030 agenda goal 12- “Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns,” there is an urgent need to shift towards using toxic-free agricultural inputs. Various techniques are widely adopted to control weed growth and development, but farmers mostly rely on herbicide application. Nanotechnology-enabled herbicide formulations are more sustainable and efficient in weed control than traditional sources. The nanoherbicides enable lesser application frequency and minimum quantity requirement, thereby preventing herbicide accumulation in soil and water bodies. Mainly nano-mediated biodegradable carrier-based herbicides possess properties of prolonged release, targeted inhibition, reduced mobility in soil, better adhesion to the plant surface, and retards rapid degradation of active ingredients (AIs), which increase herbicide use efficiency against weeds. Biodegradable carrier materials are cost-effective and readily available from living/non-living organisms and mineral sources, which can be an alternate source for metal/metal-oxide carrier materials. Materials like chitosan, plant derivatives, clay particles, and synthetic polymers are notable carrier materials reported for encapsulating or loading herbicide molecules. Applying nano-mediated herbicides is an innovative methodology for controlling weeds while considering environmental safety. This review focused mainly on recent advances in biodegradable carrier-based herbicide application in agriculture to mitigate the crisis in sustainable weed management. The ultimate objective of this manuscript is to serve as a source of reference material for exploring the nano-based herbicide formulations, their mobility, fate, and future perspectives.

Nitrogen (N) fertilization is a major management requirement for wild blueberry fields. Its presence and estimation can be difficult given the perennial and heterogeneous nature of the plant, low N requirement, and residual N effects, resulting in the frequent over-application of N, excessive canopy growth, and resulting reduction in berry yields. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate nitrogen content and growth parameters using remote sensing approaches. Three trials were established in three commercial fields in Nova Scotia, Canada. An RCBD with 5 replicates and a plot size of 6 × 8 m with a 2 m buffer was used. Treatments consisted of 0, 20, 40, 60, and 100 kg N ha-1 of fertilizer. Using a DJI Matrice 300 UAV mounted with an RGB and a multispectral camera, aerial measurements were collected at 30 m altitude. Several field measurements including leaf nitrogen content (LNC), leaf area, floral bud numbers, stem height, and yield were conducted. Several vegetation indices (VIs) were computed for each plot, and correlation and regression analyses were conducted. Results indicated that treatments with high nitrogen rates had correspondingly high LAI measurements with the 60 kg ha-1 rate achieving the best growth parameters compared to the other treatments. LNC, LAI, and berry yield estimations using VIs [green leaf index (GLI), green red vegetation index (GRVI), and visible atmospheric red index (VARI)] produced significantly positive R2 values of 0.43, 0.48, and 0.30 respectively. Results from this study illustrated the potential of using VIs to estimate LNC, LAI, and berry yield parameters. It was established that the near-infrared VIs are the most effective in estimating differences in nitrogen rates, making them suitable for use in prescription maps for N fertilization applications.

IntroductionThe marine microalga Isochrysis galbana is prolific producer of fucoxanthin, which is a xanthophyll carotenoid with substantial global market value boasting extensive applications in the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. This study presented a novel integrated experimental approach coupled with machine learning (ML) models to predict the fucoxanthin content in I. galbana by altering the type and concentration of phytohormone supplementation, thus overcoming the multiple methodological limitations of conventional fucoxanthin quantification.MethodsA novel integrated experimental approach was developed, analyzing the effect of varying phytohormone types and concentrations on fucoxanthin production in I. galbana. Morphological analysis was conducted to assess changes in microalgal structure, while growth rate and fucoxanthin yield correlations were explored using statistical analysis and machine learning models. Several ML models were employed to predict fucoxanthin content, with and without hormone descriptors as variables.ResultsThe findings revealed that the Random Forest (RF) model was highly significant with a high R2 of 0.809 and RMSE of 0.776 when hormone descriptors were excluded, and the inclusion of hormone descriptors further improved prediction accuracy to R2 of 0.839, making it a useful tool for predicting the fucoxanthin yield. The model that fitted the experimental data indicated methyl jasmonate (0.2 mg/L) as an effective phytohormone. The combined experimental and ML approach demonstrated rapid, reliable, and cost-efficient prediction of fucoxanthin yield.DiscussionThis study highlights the potential of machine learning models, particularly Random Forest, to optimize parameters influencing microalgal growth and fucoxanthin production. This approach offers a more efficient alternative to conventional methods, providing valuable insights into improving fucoxanthin production in microalgal cultivation. The findings suggest that leveraging diverse ML models can enhance the predictability and efficiency of fucoxanthin production, making it a promising tool for industrial applications.

Summary: The exact incidence of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in Nigeria is unknown. Globally, CO poisoning is frequently unrecognized and under-reported since the clinical presentation is relatively non-specific. The circumstances usually involve an unsuspected increase of CO in an enclosed environment. We .. present the case of a five-year old girl who was brought to the Emergency Paediatics Unit with altered consciousness and profound muscle weakness following exposure to exhaust fumes from a petrol powered electric generator. The generating set was usually operated within the kitchen during the preceding year, but on that particular day, a large refrigerator was placed beside the kitchen door thereby preventing its complete closure. She made an uneventful recovery following treatment with 100 percent oxygen. The case highlights the susceptibility of children to CO poisoning caused by operating petrol powered electric generators within the house. Health education of the community is necessary to avert such hazards.

Baetiella muchei (Braasch, 1978) is recorded for the first time from the Neeru stream of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The variability in larval characters such as size, the shape of the labrum, and the number of the sub-marginal arc of setae in the labrum differs from 12 to 22, degree of fusion of the mandibular incisors, spines on the distal margin of the tergites, distal margin of the paraproct, and the length of cerci are observed from the Indian population when compared to the type specimens. The species number of Baetiella Uéno, 1931 has now increased to six in India. A distributional map of this species is also provided.

Summary: Timed feeding drives adipose browning, although the integrative mechanisms for the same remain unclear. Here, we show that twice-a-night (TAN) feeding generates biphasic oscillations of circulating insulin and leptin, representing their entrainment by timed feeding. Insulin and leptin surges lead to marked cellular, functional, and metabolic remodeling of subcutaneous white adipose tissue (sWAT), resulting in increased energy expenditure. Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analyses and flow cytometry demonstrate a role for insulin and leptin surges in innate lymphoid type 2 (ILC2) cell recruitment and sWAT browning, since sWAT depot denervation or loss of leptin or insulin receptor signaling or ILC2 recruitment each dampens TAN feeding-induced sWAT remodeling and energy expenditure. Consistently, recreating insulin and leptin oscillations via once-a-day timed co-injections is sufficient to favorably remodel innervated sWAT. Innervation is necessary for sWAT remodeling, since denervation of sWAT, but not brown adipose tissue (BAT), blocks TAN-induced sWAT remodeling and resolution of inflammation. In sum, reorganization of nutrient-sensitive pathways remodels sWAT and drives the metabolic benefits of timed feeding.

This research focuses on the positive effects that a metallic coating made with Nickel coating can have on the oxidation and corrosion behaviour of hot work tool steels (HWT). Two different types of hot work tool steels, each with a distinct amount of chromium, were analysed by means of the gravimetric oxidative method and corrosion testing. Using PVD deposition techniques, Nickel coating is deposited onto the steel specimens in order to achieve tailor made properties. Investigations into the diffusive oxidation behaviour of HWT steels are carried out at temperatures of 600, 700, and 800 °C. Before and after going through the oxidation process, the surface morphologies of steel specimens are analysed using SEM and XRD instruments respectively. The initial stages of oxidation are characterized by rapid oxidation; however, as the time spent oxidising the specimens increases, the rate of oxidation slows down. As the temperature rises, the quantity of oxidation that may be tolerated drops. The ability of a specimen to resist oxidation is enhanced when it has a comprehensive uniform nickel coating. It is interesting to note that the oxidation resistance of both type HWT specimens coated by Nickel coating has increased by a factor of two. Intriguingly similar trend with three-fold increase in corrosion resistance of the aforementioned steels is achieved in red sea water when coated with Nickel.

Background: A rare category of hereditary illnesses known as osteopetrosis (OP) causes increased bone radiodensity on radiographs. Due to brittle bone and frequent fractures, symptomatic management is the mainstay of treatment. The underlying pathology of osteopetrosis in a patient presenting with long bone fractures may be missed due to the rarity of the condition and lack of awareness on the part of the treating surgeon. There is no consensus on fracture management in osteopetrosis. When opting for surgical fixation of fractures, there is often a conflict about what implants to use to ensure stable fixation and early functional redemption. Iatrogenic fractures during implant placement, overheating, and drill/saw breakage are some of the difficulties that may arise during surgery. Methods: Our study is a retrospective observational analysis of eight patients with osteopetrosis who underwent surgery for a femur fracture with various types of implants at our facility between January 2010 and March 2022. Following surgery, clinico-radiological follow-ups were done at one, two, six months, 12 months, and then yearly thereafter. Clinically, the patients were assessed based on the Lower Extremity Functional Score (LEFS). Results: The patients who underwent combined extra and intramedullary fixation showed a faster return of LEFS and union time of the fracture. Conclusion: When addressing the fractures in osteopetrosis, it is crucial to consider the risks of fixation in these individuals. Although plate fixation is considered easier, the risk of peri-implant fractures is high. In our experience, intramedullary nailing with plate augmentation and bone grafting provides a much more stable construct which can reduce the risk of further fractures.

Social science researchers have endeavored with the literature showcasing various individual mobile recommendation systems to assist stakeholders in the tourism sector. The challenge of formulating a mathematical equation to predict tourist growth at specific sites arises due to the diverse environmental conditions unique to each destination. This research seeks to develop a mobile application model fostering connectivity among significant tourism stakeholders. Within the app, stakeholders can effortlessly retrieve information about others and directly engage with relevant authorities without exiting the application. The app also provides navigation guidance to tourist destinations. The study explores the specific growth rate of tourists, assuming a doubling of tourist numbers after a specific time interval has been illustrated. While there may be an initial exponential growth in tourist numbers at a destination, the count eventually stabilizes. The Monod equation is employed in conjunction with the tourist equation for a comprehensive representation in this study. Additionally, the research delves into the graphical analysis of the feasibility conditions proposed by Casagrandi and Rinaldi's connectivity model. It is essential to note that this analysis remains abstract, and the creation of a universally applicable mathematical tourism model for every destination proves nearly impossible.

The nuclear reactor control unit employs human factor engineering to ensure efficient operations and prevent any catastrophic incidents. This sector is of utmost importance for public safety. This study focuses on simulated analysis of specific areas of nuclear reactor control, specifically administration, operation, and maintenance, using artificial intelligence software. The investigation yields effective artificial intelligence algorithms that capture the essential and non-essential components of numerous parameters to be monitored in nuclear reactor control. The investigation further examines the interdependencies between various parameters and validates the statistical outputs of the model through attribution analysis. Furthermore, a Multivariant ANOVA analysis is conducted to identify the interactive plots and mean plots of crucial parameters interactions. The artificial intelligence algorithms demonstrate the correlation between the number of vacant staff jobs and both the frequency of license event reports each year and the ratio of contract employees to regular employees in the administrative domain. An AI method uncovers the relationships between the operator failing rate (OFR), operator processed errors (OEE), and operations at limited time frames (OLC). The AI algorithm reveals the interdependence between equipment in the out of service (EOS), progressive maintenance schedule (PRMR), and preventive maintenance schedules (PMRC). Effective machine learning neural network models are derived from generative adversarial network (GAN) algorithms and proposed for administrative, operational and maintenance loops of nuclear reactor control unit.

The Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), is a highly destructive lepidopteran pest known for its extensive feeding on maize (Zea mays L.) and other crops, resulting in a substantial reduction in crop yields. Understanding the metabolic response of maize to FAW infestation is essential for effective pest management and crop protection. Metabolomics, a powerful analytical tool, provides insights into the dynamic changes in maize’s metabolic profile in response to FAW infestation. This review synthesizes recent advancements in metabolomics research focused on elucidating maize’s metabolic responses to FAW and other lepidopteran pests. It discusses the methodologies used in metabolomics studies and highlights significant findings related to the identification of specific metabolites involved in FAW defense mechanisms. Additionally, it explores the roles of various metabolites, including phytohormones, secondary metabolites, and signaling molecules, in mediating plant–FAW interactions. The review also examines potential applications of metabolomics data in developing innovative strategies for integrated pest management and breeding maize cultivars resistant to FAW by identifying key metabolites and associated metabolic pathways involved in plant–FAW interactions. To ensure global food security and maximize the potential of using metabolomics in enhancing maize resistance to FAW infestation, further research integrating metabolomics with other omics techniques and field studies is necessary.

Summary: The mechanisms explaining the variability in COVID-19 clinical manifestations (mild, moderate, and severe) are not fully understood. To identify key gene expression markers linked to disease severity, we employed an integrated approach, combining host-pathogen protein-protein interaction data and viral-induced host gene expression data. We analyzed an RNA-seq dataset from peripheral blood mononuclear cells across 12 projects representing the spectrum of disease severity. We identified genes showing differential expression across mild, moderate, and severe conditions. Enrichment analysis of the pathways in host proteins targeted by each of the SARS-CoV-2 proteins revealed a strong association with processes related to ribosomal biogenesis, translation, and translocation. Interestingly, most of these pathways and associated cellular machinery, including ribosomal biogenesis, ribosomal proteins, and translation, were upregulated in mild conditions but downregulated in severe cases. This suggests that COVID-19 exhibits a paradoxical host response, boosting host/viral translation in mild cases but slowing it in severe cases.

Abstract In this work, the classification of laryngeal cancer is attempted using deeply learned features obtained using Inception V3, Squeezenet, and VGG‐16 embedders in the Orange toolbox. Machine learning algorithms such as KNN, SVM, random forest, decision tree, and neural network classifiers are employed to classify the stages or categories of laryngeal cancer. The ranking of deep learning feature values is carried out using state‐of‐the‐art metrics such as information gain, information gain ratio, chi‐square, and reliefF. It is observed that the performance of the algorithms is affected by the cross‐validation.

Abstract Microridges are evolutionarily conserved actin-rich protrusions present on the apical surface of squamous epithelial cells. In zebrafish epidermal cells, microridges form self-evolving patterns due to the underlying actomyosin network dynamics. However, their morphological and dynamic characteristics have remained poorly understood owing to a lack of computational methods. We achieved ~95% pixel-level accuracy with a deep learning microridge segmentation strategy enabling quantitative insights into their bio-physical-mechanical characteristics. From the segmented images, we estimated an effective microridge persistence length of ~6.1 μm. We discovered the presence of mechanical fluctuations and found relatively greater stresses stored within patterns of yolk than flank, indicating distinct regulation of their actomyosin networks. Furthermore, spontaneous formations and positional fluctuations of actin clusters within microridges were associated with pattern rearrangements over short length/time-scales. Our framework allows large-scale spatiotemporal analysis of microridges during epithelial development and probing of their responses to chemical and genetic perturbations to unravel the underlying patterning mechanisms.

Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays an important role in agricultural soils, as it contributes to overall soil health as well as climate change mitigation and adaptation. By conducting a meta-analysis, we aim to quantitatively summarize research studying the effects of cover crops (CC) on SOC pools throughout soil depths in arable cropland. We included global studies located in the climatic zones present in Europe. The pools chosen for this analysis are the particulate organic carbon (POC) and the mineral associated organic carbon (MAOC) and the microbial biomass carbon (MBC). Alongside, we will study the effects of a broad range of moderators, such as pedo-climatic factors, other agricultural management practices and CC characteristics e.g., type.We identified 71 relevant studies from 61 articles, of which mean values for SOC pools, standard deviations and sample sizes for treatments (CC) and controls (no CC) were extracted. To perform the meta-analysis, an effect size will be calculated for each study, which will then be summarized across studies by using weighing procedure. Consequently, this meta-analysis will provide valuable information on the state of knowledge on SOC pool change influenced by CC, corresponding quantitative summary results and the sources of heterogeneity influencing these results.

AbstractBackground: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifaceted disease appropriate to elevated blood glucose levels resulting from decreased insulin and beta-cell activity. Using a case–control methodology, researchers have examined the relationship between polymorphisms in LEPR and T2DM in a population from south India.Materials and Methods: We conducted a genetic analysis of 311 participants, and results were accomplished using a case-control study, a meta-analysis of previous studies on LEPR was conducted, and type 2 diabetes genotype distribution across various geographical regions Malaysians, Chinese Han, Kuwait, Iran, Mongolia, and Han Chinese, Greece, Saudi, India (North India, Punjabi), (South India, Tamilnadu). The study involved 254 prospective investigations, and nine association studies were preferred according to preset criteria. Studies were assessed for quality using the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). An analysis of the genetic models was conducted to determine their relationship, statistical analysis was utilized to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and matching 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Results: The LEPR-rs1137101 polymorphism in the case-control study was associated with a significant increase in the risk of type 2 diabetes. A meta-analysis revealed a connection between LEPR gene polymorphism (rs1137101) and type 2 diabetes risk. Investigators might gain a more profound thought on the significance of the identified genetic variation and its impact on the chance of developing type 2 diabetes by verifying and strengthening previously reported findings. The model of fixed effects was chosen due to the low heterogeneity, and significant associations were observed in the allelic (OR = 0.79, 95% CI [0.70–0.87]), homozygote (OR = 0.58, 95% CI [0.46–0.72]), dominant (OR = 0.66, 95% CI [0.56–0.79]), and recessive (OR = 0.83, 95% CI [0.71–0.96]) genetic models. A Begg’s funnel plot and Egger’s test indicated no publication bias. These findings suggest that the rs1137101 variant in the LEPR gene has been linked to a higher risk of T2DM.Conclusions: A larger sample size, however, is required for further research, and consideration of potential confounding factors is needed to validate these associations. Understanding the implications of LEPR gene polymorphisms in T2DM susceptibility may contribute to personalized treatment strategies for patients with T2DM.

COVID-19 is a virus that can cause severe pneumonia, and the severity varies based on the patient's immune system. The rapid spread of the disease can be mitigated through automated detection, addressing the shortage of radiologists in medicine. This paper introduces the Modified-Inception V3 (MIn-V3) model, which utilizes feature fusion from the internal layers of Inception V3 to classify different diseases, including normal cases, COVID-19 positivity, viral pneumonia, and bacterial pneumonia. Additionally, transfer learning and fine-tuning techniques are applied to enhance accuracy. The performance of MIn-V3 is assessed by comparing it with pre-trained Deep Learning (DL) models, such as Inception-ResNet V2 (InRN-V2), Inception V3, and MobileNet V2. Experimental results demonstrate that the MIn-V3 model surpasses other pre-trained models with a classification accuracy of 96.33 %. Furthermore, integrating the MIn-V3 model into a mobile application enables rapid and accurate detection of COVID-19, thus playing a crucial role in advancing early diagnostics, which is essential for timely intervention and effective disease management.

Background: Spinal tuberculosis (TB) is the most common extrapulmonary form of tuberculosis. In both developing and developed countries, TB has been on the rising trend due to factors such as increasing HIV coinfection, multidrug resistance of the organism, and global migration. Spinal TB, which most often affects the lower thoracic and thoracolumbar area, accounts for 50% of all musculoskeletal tuberculosis. Methods: Using the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, and PubMed, a systematic computerized literature search was performed. Analyses of studies published within the past 10 years were conducted. The searches were performed using Medical Subject Headings terms, with “spinal tuberculosis,” “diagnosis,” “epidemiology,” and “etiology”,“management,” “surgery,” and “therapy” as subheadings. Results: Progressive collapse, kyphosis, and neurological deficiency are hallmarks of the disease because of its destructive effect on the intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebral bodies. The condition may be identified using laboratory testing and distinctive imaging features, but the gold standard for diagnosis is tissue diagnosis using cultures, histology, and polymerase chain reaction. Uncomplicated spinal TB is today a medical condition that can be adequately treated by multidrug ambulatory chemotherapy. Surgery is reserved for individuals who have instability, neurological impairment, and deformity correction. Debridement, deformity correction, and stable fusion are the cornerstones of surgical treatment. Conclusions: Clinical results for the treatment of spinal TB are generally satisfactory when the disease is identified and treated early. However, the major health issue and the biggest obstacle in achieving the goals of the “End TB strategy” is the recent rise in the emergence of drug resistance. Hence strict vigilance and patient perseverance in the completion of the treatment is the main need of the hour.

Background: Bilateral femoral concurrent neck with shaft fracture is rare and requires meticulous planning to achieve successful outcome. Case: We report a rare case of bilateral femoral concurrent neck with shaft fracture. Initially, damage control procedure of external-fixator application was performed followed by conversion to bilateral reconstruction femoral nailing. Patient required additional procedure on one side for femur shaft nonunion by augmentation plating and bone grafting to achieve union. Conclusion: Use of single intramedullary implant with anatomical reduction of the neck and achieving correct length, alignment, rotation along with good compression at the diaphyseal fracture site plays a key-role in the successful outcome in these rare fractures.

In this article, we find an α-valuation for disjoint union of some bipartite graphs and the tensor product of paths and even cycles.

The KRAS G12D mutation is very frequent in many cancers, such as pancreatic, colon and lung, and has remained undruggable for the past three decades, due to its smooth surface and lack of suitable pockets. Recent small pieces of evidence suggest that targeting the switch I/II of KRAS G12D mutant could be an efficient strategy. Therefore, in the present study, we targeted the switch I (residues 25–40) and switch II (residues 57–76) regions of KRAS G12D with dietary bioflavonoids in comparison with the reference KRAS SI/II inhibitor BI-2852. Initially, we screened 925 bioflavonoids based on drug-likeness properties, and ADME properties and selected 514 bioflavonoids for further studies. Molecular docking resulted in four lead bioflavonoids, namely 5-Dehydroxyparatocarpin K (L1), Carpachromene (L2), Sanggenone H (L3), and Kuwanol C (L4) with binding affinities of 8.8 Kcal/mol, 8.64 Kcal/mol, 8.62 Kcal/mol, and 8.58 Kcal/mol, respectively, in comparison with BI-2852 (−8.59 Kcal/mol). Further steered-molecular dynamics, molecular-dynamics simulation, toxicity, and in silico cancer-cell-line cytotoxicity predictions significantly support these four lead bioflavonoids as potential inhibitors of KRAS G12D SI/SII inhibitors. We finally conclude that these four bioflavonoids have potential inhibitory activity against the KRAS G12D mutant, and are further to be studied in vitro and in vivo, to evaluate their therapeutic potential and the utility of these compounds against KRAS G12D mutated cancers.

Background: Although microtrauma, gene polymorphisms, or subclinical infection could initiate lumbar disc herniation (LDH), the final pathway culminating in herniation can involve two possible trajectories—degeneration of nucleus pulposus or vertebral end plate (EP) damage. We performed a retrospective case–control study to understand the relative role played by disc degeneration (DD) and EP changes in acute LDH. Materials and Methods: MRI of 300 consecutive patients with acute LDH (

Micro hole is the fundamental feature found in any device and its components. Hence this paper aims to produce the micro holes using electrochemical micromachining (EMM). The existing machining techniques in EMM for creating micro holes are associated with more overcut (OC). Hence, reducing OC and enhancing the machining rate (MR) is essential. This paper aspires to investigate the effect of the graphite electrode with magnetic force on the copper plate. Four different tools, namely the electromagnetic graphite tool (EMGT), permanent magnet graphite tool (PMGT), graphite tool, and stainless steel (SS) tool, are employed for these experiments. The major influencing factors are machining voltage in volts, duty cycle in % and electrolyte concentration in g/l was considered on MR and OC. The results revealed that EMGT, PMGT, and graphite electrodes produce MR of 106.4%, 74.6 % and 44.5 % over the SS tool at a parameter level of 23 g/l, 15 V, and 85%, respectively. Furthermore, graphite and EMGT electrodes resulted in 11.9% and 3.41% reduced OC, respectively, than the SS tool at parameter levels of 8 V, 95% and 28 g/l. Additionally, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) picture examination is conducted to identify the magnetic field effect on the work surface.

There is a remarkable increase in natural fiber-reinforced composites research over the last three decades due to their abundance, less density, biodegradability, renewable sources, and low cost. The fabrication of natural fiber composites require less energy when compared with synthetic fiber composites. Various natural fibers are available globally and have been used as reinforcements in polymer composites. These fibers provide comparable properties and can be considered as a substitute for synthetic fiber composites. The objective of this review is to analyze the various types of natural fibers used in composite fabrication along with their physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties. Other important aspects such as fiber extraction, chemical treatments, manufacturing methods, hybridization, interfacial adhesion, and applications for different natural fiber composites are also discussed. The review also establishes the scope of natural fiber composites for future needs in various applications by understanding their merits and demerits.

The mechanical behavior of banana fiber (BA) reinforced polymer composites filled with fly ash (FA) is analyzed in this present investigation. Polyester matrix is used to produce composites with 30% of banana fiber volume and fly ash with three separate volume fractions (1%, 3% & 5%). The failure mechanisms were identified through a scanning electron microscope using the fractured surfaces of the specimen after mechanical testing. The addition of 3% vol of fly ash results in an increase in the tensile, flexural, and impact strength of 46.3%, 24%, and 88.4% when compared with the banana fiber composites without fly ash (BAP). 5% vol of higher fly ash addition indicates a drop in the tensile, flexural, and impact properties of approximately 31.4%, 9.38%, and 30.61% when compared to 3% vol of fly ash added composites, respectively. Owing to weak interfacial bonding caused by the agglomeration of fillers, the higher filler loading results in subdued mechanical properties. With the help of SEM fractography, the parameters, including poor interfacial adhesion, defective surfaces, and fractures, were described.

The present work aims to investigate the wear and friction characteristics of banana fiber (BA)/fly ash (FA) reinforced polyester composites fabricated using manual hand layup technique. Wear analysis was carried out with control parameters of filler content 1, 3, and 5 vol.%, speed 300, 500, and 700 rpm, load 20, 40, and 60 N, and time 5, 10, and 15 min to obtain minimum wear responses. Taguchi analysis shows that minimum wear rate was obtained at control parameters of 20 N load, 700 rpm speed and 15 min time on composites with 1, 3, and 5 vol.% of fly ash. ANOVA analysis depicted that the load was the most significant factor which induced a wear rate of 17.70 and coefficient of friction (COF) 22.56 on the F-value compared to other factors. The combined effect of the filler content and the sliding speed is most significant with an F value of 4.29 on the wear rate and 3.44 on the coefficient of friction when compared to other interactions. Material removal mechanisms from worn-out surfaces were identified using SEM characterization. These types of composites can be considered for low load applications such as interior parts of automobiles, interior architecture products, electronic panels, etc.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the deadliest subtypes of breast cancer (BC) for its high aggressiveness, heterogeneity, and hypoxic nature. Based on biological and clinical observations the TNBC related mortality is very high worldwide. Emerging studies have clearly demonstrated that hypoxia regulates the critical metabolic, developmental, and survival pathways in TNBC, which include glycolysis and angiogenesis. Alterations to these pathways accelerate the cancer stem cells (CSCs) enrichment and immune escape, which further lead to tumor invasion, migration, and metastasis. Beside this, hypoxia also manipulates the epigenetic plasticity and DNA damage response (DDR) to syndicate TNBC survival and its progression. Hypoxia fundamentally creates the low oxygen condition responsible for the alteration in Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1alpha (HIF-1α) signaling within the tumor microenvironment, allowing tumors to survive and making them resistant to various therapies. Therefore, there is an urgent need for society to establish target-based therapies that overcome the resistance and limitations of the current treatment plan for TNBC. In this review article, we have thoroughly discussed the plausible significance of HIF-1α as a target in various therapeutic regimens such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, anti-angiogenic therapy, adjuvant therapy photodynamic therapy, adoptive cell therapy, combination therapies, antibody drug conjugates and cancer vaccines. Further, we also reviewed here the intrinsic mechanism and existing issues in targeting HIF-1α while improvising the current therapeutic strategies. This review highlights and discusses the future perspectives and the major alternatives to overcome TNBC resistance by targeting hypoxia-induced signaling.

Introduction: Dengue is a viral infection with diverse clinical manifestations. Infection in most of the patients is subclinical. It may also present as undifferentiated fever, severe dengue like Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). Secondary dengue infection predisposes to severe dengue, a serious threat to the community as they increase morbidities and mortality. The diagnosis of secondary infection is either by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to detect the serotype or dengue IgG/IgM antibody ratio. A ratio of more than 1.1 is evidence of secondary dengue. Aim: To find out the prevalence of secondary dengue by measuring the dengue anti-IgG/IgM ratio by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Government Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai for a period of six months from July 2021 to December 2021. Sample size was 450 calculated at 95% confidence level, (CI 28.3-38.3) with 33.3% as prevalence. Blood samples were collected and Nonstructural Protein 1 (NS1) antigen assay was done. The IgG and IgM antibodies assays were done for NS1 antigen positive individuals. The IgG/IgM ratio was calculated in patients who were positive for both IgG and IgM. Statistical analysis was done with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Percentage, mean and standard deviation were calculated. Results: Total of 450 patients were included, out of which 194 were NS1 antigen positive, 106 were males and 88 females with the mean age 25±14.85 years. NS1 antigen was positive in 89.17%. Two-tailed Fisher’s-exact test showed a significant proportion of patients among NS1 positive were positive for both IgG and IgM. An IgG/IgM ratio of >1.1 was found in 62.04%. The association between IgG/IgM ratio of >1.1 and thrombocytopenia was significant [p-value=0.00504, Odd’s ratio (OD) =3.316]. Conclusion: Dengue IgG/IgM antibody ratio of more than 1.1 on the third day of symptom onset and the platelet count assist in the early diagnosis of secondary dengue thereby helps clinicians to initiate the appropriate treatment at the right time, reduce mortality rate and decrease the economic burden of the country.

This study identifies the use of processed lateritic fine aggregate (LFA) as a sustainable material for the replacement of natural fine aggregate (NFA) in self-compacting concrete (SCC). Cubes were cast with LFA replacements from 10% to 80% with an interval of 10% for checking the compressive strength development at 28 and 90 days. The findings demonstrate that the replacement of 30% NFA with LFA leads to the optimum performance, resulting in compressive strengths of 45.5 MPa and 53 MPa after 28 and 90 days of curing. Similar trends are also noted with the specimens cast for splitting tensile and flexural strengths as per IS 516: 2021. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were performed to understand the surface morphology, material characterization, and composition differences between the control mix (C30F) and optimized lateritic SCC (C30F30L). SEM and EDX analysis demonstrated the contribution of the introduced fly ash particles to the strengthening of concrete. TGA with DTA has shown the more complicated denser structure of the C30F mix, and FTIR has confirmed the presence and formation of the C–S–H gel. Si–O–Si asymmetric stretching band has extra peaks, and with FTIR, O–C–O asymmetrical bending and stretching wave band have a lower intensity than the C30F mix due to the partial replacement of LFA. In addition, it is also observed from the durability studies that C30F30L showed an increase in pore volume and capillary pore network compared to C30F mix.

Modern engineering materials have seen remarkable development. Because conventional materials can no longer meet the needs of modern applications, numerous composites are being employed as viable alternatives. Drilling is the most important production step for most uses, and the resulting holes are high-stress zones that must be handled carefully. Scientists and engineers have long been interested in the challenge of finding the best combination of drilling settings for cutting-edge composite materials. As part of this research, AA2017/AlN composites with matrices made of AA2017 aluminium alloy and reinforcements made of 5, 10, and 15 wt % AlN were produced using stir casting. By experimenting with different input parameters, we were able to utilise the L9 OA to determine the best machining arrangement for drilling materials. The investigation focused on critical drilling characteristics, including burr height (H), thrust force (T), and surface roughness (SR), with a keen emphasis on sustainability.By considering the burr height (H), thrust force (T) and surface roughness (SR) and this work used grey relational analysis (GRA) to establish the optimum cutting parameters for drilling holes in the cutting-edge composite AA2017/AlN. The significance of different machining settings and their effect on the typical characteristics of the drilling were analysed using GRA. However, a confirmation experiment was conducted to ensure the highest quality outcomes. Test results and GRA indicate that the best grey relational grade is achieved with the following parameters: spindle speed (S) of 3500 rpm, feed rate (F) of 60 m/s, drill material (D) of Tungsten Carbide, and reinforcement (R) of 10%.. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed statistically significant impacts on GRG from the drill material (29.08%), the feed rate (24.24%), and the spindle speed (19.52%). The error term was a function of the reinforcement percent and its interactions with all other parameters; however, the influence of the interaction between feed rate and drill material on GRG was small. The GRG is 0.856, which is higher than the prediction of 0.824. The calculated and measured values agree quite well and 3.7% is a negligible margin of error. The mathematical models for all reactions depending on the drill bits employed was also constructed.

By integrating sustainable materials and practices into the fabrication process of the AA2017/AlN composites, you can enhance their environmental performance and contribute to a more sustainable future for materials engineering.An attempt was made to investigate the impact of stir casting parameters on the tensile strength (TS) of AlN particles reinforced AA2017 matrix composites. The composites containing 0, 5, 10 and 15 wt.% AlN incorporated AA2017 matrix developed via stir casting route. Taguchi’s L16 orthogonal design layout consisting of four input parameters and four levels were chosen to fabricate the composites. The selected process parameters were stirring time (min), stirring speed (rpm), reinforcement (wt.%) and melting temperature (oC). Similarly, the output response was considered as tensile strength (TS) and the test was performed by universal testing machine (UTM). Taguchi approach was engaged to predict the finest setting of casting parameters to achieve the superior TS of the proposed AA2017/AlN composites. The statistical results revealed that the maximum TS was produced by stirring time of 8 min, stirring speed of 500 rpm, reinforcement content of 15 wt.% and melting temperature of 700oC. ANOVA results found that reinforcement (53.95%) was the notable factor for affecting the TS, next by stirring time (37.20%). By leveraging sustainable materials and manufacturing practices, this study contributes to the advancement of environmentally friendly materials engineering practices, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the field.

Background: Retinopathy of prematurity also known as retrolental fibroplasia is a vasoproliferative disease of immature retina. It is a major cause of preventable blindness in neonates. Aim: To study the relationship between postnatal weight gain and progression of stages in retinopathy of prematurity. To evaluate the at-risk infants by screening their postnatal weight at two weekly intervals and monitoring the progression in severity of retinopathy of prematurity. To compare the progression in severity of ROP between infants with adequate postnatal weight gain and inadequate weight gain. Methodology: This is a prospective and analytical study of a total of 78 infants satisfying the inclusion criteria. Results: Of the 78 babies thus studied, 40 had adequate weight gain and 38 had inadequate weight gain. Of the 78 babies thus studied 43 showed progressions in stages of ROP and 35 showed regressions in stages of ROP in the second visit compared to the first visit. 43 babies going in for progression in stages of ROP, birth weight and weight during four and six completed weeks of chronological age were compared ant it effectively showed that out of the 43 babies progressing in stages of ROP 15 had adequate weight gain and 28 had inadequate weight gain. Conclusion: Thus, even when the pathogenesis of retinopathy of prematurity leading to type II ROP has set in preterm infants, adequate weight gain which is a surrogate marker in identifying the levels of serum IGF-1 has halted the progression in development of ROP and even helped in regression of type II ROP.

Abstract Reports of neurological sequelae related to colon cancer are largely restricted to rare instances of paraneoplastic syndromes, due to autoimmune reactions. Systemic inflammation associated with tumor development influences sensory neuron function in other disease models, though the extent to which this occurs in colorectal cancer is unknown. We induced orthotopic colorectal cancer via orthotopic injection of two colorectal cancer cell lines (MC38 and CT26) in two different mouse strains (C57BL/6 and Balb/c, respectively). Behavioral tests of pain sensitivity and activity did not detect significant alterations in sensory sensitivity or diminished well-being throughout tumor development. However, immunohistochemistry revealed widespread reductions in intraepidermal nerve fiber density in the skin of tumor-bearing mice. Though loss of nerve fiber density was not associated with increased expression of cell injury markers in dorsal root ganglia, lumbar dorsal root ganglia neurons of tumor-bearing animals showed deficits in mitochondrial function. These neurons also had reduced cytosolic calcium levels in live-cell imaging and reduced spontaneous activity in multi-electrode array analysis. Bulk RNA sequencing of DRGs from tumor-bearing mice detected activation of gene expression pathways associated with elevated cytokine and chemokine signaling, including CXCL10. This is consistent with the detection of CXCL10 (and numerous other cytokines, chemokines and growth factors) in MC38 and CT26 cell-conditioned media, and the serum of tumor-bearing mice. Our study demonstrates in a pre-clinical setting that colon cancer is associated with latent sensory neuron dysfunction and implicates cytokine/chemokine signaling in this process. These findings may have implications for determining risk factors and treatment responsiveness related to neuropathy in colorectal cancer.

Two new species of Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 and a new species of Teloganodes Eaton, 1882 are described from India; they are Dudgeodes selvakumari Martynov & Palatov, sp. nov. from Himalayan region (Uttarakhand), Dudgeodes molinerii Sivaruban, Martynov, Srinivasan, Barathy & Isack, sp. nov., and Teloganodes barathyae Sivaruban, Martynov, Srinivasan & Isack, sp. nov. from the Tamil Nadu part of the Western Ghats. Thus, for now, the Teloganodidae fauna of India includes 11 species. Dudgeodes selvakumari sp. nov. appears to be significantly extend northward the known distribution of Dudgeodes. Partial COI sequences were used as an initial clustering method to show the relationships of D. selvakumari sp. nov. with other sequenced operational taxonomic units (OTU) of the genus.

Agro waste burning is a serious environmental issue, which results in water and air pollution. The addition of these agro wastes as reinforcements in polymer composites can improve the mechanical properties. The present study involves the fabrication of banana fiber reinforced polyester composites filled with coconut shell filler using the hand layup technique. 30 vol% of banana fibers with 10 mm length is used for fabrication along with coconut shell filler of 1, 3 & 5 vol% in the polyester matrix. The fabricated composites are processed using the XRD, FTIR, TGA, tensile and flexural tests. The maximum tensile and flexural strength of 19.91 MPa and 92.761 MPa is achieved with 3 vol% of coconut shell-filled banana fiber polyester composites. The fiber/matrix debonding, poor interfacial adhesion, and matrix cracks are the important failure mechanisms that are identified using scanning electron microscopy.

Background: Citrobacter species being a gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacteria affects extremes of age groups. Case report: We report a case of 27-yearold male with no associated comorbidities diagnosed with lumbar spondylodiscitis caused by C.koseri infection. He was managed conservatively and treated successfully with appropriate antibiotics. Conclusion: Spondylodiscitis due to C.koseri spondylodiscitis can occur in young healthy adults. Early diagnosis by blood or tissue culture & prompt medical treatment is essential for a good outcome.

Abstract Cisplatin is used to combat solid tumors. However, patients treated with cisplatin often develop cognitive impairments, sensorimotor deficits, and peripheral neuropathy. There is no FDA-approved treatment for these neurotoxicities. We investigated the capacity of a highly selective A3 adenosine receptor (AR) subtype (A3AR) agonist, MRS5980, to prevent and reverse cisplatin-induced neurotoxicities. MRS5980 prevented cisplatin-induced cognitive impairment (decreased executive function and impaired spatial and working memory), sensorimotor deficits, and neuropathic pain (mechanical allodynia and spontaneous pain) in both sexes. At the structural level, MRS5980 prevented the cisplatin-induced reduction in markers of synaptic integrity. In-situ hybridization detected Adora3 mRNA in neurons, microglia, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. RNAseq analysis identified 164 genes, including genes related to mitochondrial function, of which expression was changed by cisplatin and normalized by MRS5980. Consistently, MRS5980 prevented cisplatin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and decreased signs of oxidative stress. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the A3AR agonist upregulates genes related to repair pathways including NOTCH1 signaling and chromatin modification in the cortex of cisplatin-treated mice. Importantly, A3AR agonist administration after completion of cisplatin treatment resolved cognitive impairment, neuropathy and sensorimotor deficits. Our results highlight the efficacy of a selective A3AR agonist to prevent and reverse cisplatin-induced neurotoxicities via preventing brain mitochondrial damage and activating repair pathways. An A3AR agonist is already in cancer, clinical trials and our results demonstrate management of neurotoxic side effects of chemotherapy as an additional therapeutic benefit.