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In response to escalating global energy demands and mounting environmental concerns, Microbial Fuel Cells have emerged as a groundbreaking technology, leveraging the unique abilities of microorganisms to harness bioenergy. This comprehensive review delves into the foundational principles governing MFCs, exploring mechanisms facilitating electron transfer and bioenergy generation while addressing factors influencing MFC performance. It further analyzes MFCs' multifaceted applications, from wastewater treatment to bioenergy recovery, and investigates their synergistic integration with other renewable energy systems. Despite these promising prospects, this review acknowledges the challenges of scalability, cost-effectiveness, and optimization, highlighting recent advancements aimed at enhancing efficiency, stability, and economic viability in MFC research. This review further offers a holistic perspective on the dynamic field of MFCs, assessing their potential to revolutionize bioenergy production while recognizing the hurdles to widespread adoption.

Objective: This prospective, double-blind, randomized study aimed to compare the effects of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl on the latency and amplitude of transcranial motor evoked potentials (TcMEPs) under propofol-based total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) in spine surgery. Secondarily, intraoperative hemodynamics, total propofol consumption, recovery profile, and surgical field quality were compared. Methods: TcMEP amplitude and latency recordings of bilateral abductor pollicis brevis and abductor hallucis muscles posted for elective lumbar spine surgery under TcMEP monitoring randomly divided into two study groups. Throughout the surgery, TIVA was administered using intravenous propofol (100-150 µg kg-1 min-1) and dexmedetomidine (0.5-0.7 µg kg-1 h-1) in group D and intravenous propofol (100-150 µg kg-1 min-1) and fentanyl (1 µg kg-1 h-1) in group F. TcMEPs were recorded at various time points during the surgery. Immediately after extubation recovery from anaesthesia was noted. Additionally, hemodynamic parameters, total propofol consumption, and surgical field quality were assessed. Results: Latency and amplitude were comparable between the groups. Time to extubation was significantly longer in group D, but the mean (standard deviation) duration of stay in recovery was shorter in group D [47.55 (7.51) 95% confidence interval (CI) (44.863-50.237)] (P=0.046). Total propofol consumption was reduced in group D [220 (38) 95% CI (206.402-233.598)] (P=0.025) and surgical field condition was better in group D. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine and fentanyl do not have any effect on TcMEP amplitude and latency. However, dexmedetomidine provides the additional advantage of reduced total propofol consumption, shorter stay in recovery, and better surgical field quality.

Abstract In this modern world, climate change adversely affects global food security and India is not out of it. India is now going to be the most populous country in the world and a growing population means an ever-increasing demand for safe and healthy food. Cultivation of millets can help us in this aspect as they are nutrient-dense and capable of resisting a variety of harsh environmental conditions, including lack of moisture. Millets are coarse grains that have been traditionally grown and consumed in the Indian subcontinent for about 5000 years. Although they are tagged as “poor man's food grains” regular consumption of millets can help in maintaining the good health of individuals as they are packed with several essential micronutrients like phosphorous, fiber, protein, potassium, manganese, antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids etc. Millets have numerous health benefits, including helping to balance our blood glucose levels, keeping our heart in good condition, aiding in weight loss, battling cancer cells, promoting digestion, giving stronger bones, strengthening our cardiovascular system, and acting as an agent for anti-aging. This review work has described the promising potential of millets as the staple of our plate. Graphical abstract

Introduction: Healthcare personnel have the right to decent, healthy, and safe working conditions during COVID-19. Despite our best efforts to safeguard them against SARS-CoV-2 infection, a substantially large number of healthcare personnel fell ill and succumbed to COVID-19. This study aimed to characterize the SARS-CoV-2 exposures among healthcare personnel and determine the risk level of those events, thereby identifying and focusing on the key areas that influence workplace safety. Materials and Methods: A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data from healthcare personnel on the type of exposure, place, and use of preventive measures, along with demographic and occupational data. Exposure events were categorized into low, moderate, and high-risk by using a risk categorization protocol. Results: Doctors were primarily found to be involved in the aerosol-generating procedure, which had 94 times higher odds (95% CI: 43.9926–201.17) for high-risk exposures than other activities. In contrast, nurses were more likely to experience close-contact exposures (OR: 2.77, 95% CI: 1.44–5.33). Both critical care units and operation theaters were identified to have higher odds (OR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.33–4.23 and OR: 2.31; 95% CI: 0.99–5.42, respectively) than the wards for high-risk exposures. Use of personal protective equipment was poor, with breaches reported in 10.2% of all exposure events. The lacunae in practice were addressed by repeated training and counseling and by ensuring the adequacy of resources in required areas. Conclusions: The assessment was beneficial for safeguarding healthcare personnel and assuring a safer workplace during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract Background The RP-HPLC method has been established to simultaneous estimation of seven markers in polyherbal formulation JKC using the C18 (25 × 0.46 cm, i.d,5 µm) column. The mobile phase consisted of methanol: water (80:20) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and observed retention time at 2 to 11 min with sharp points. The marker compounds viz. Andrographolide (AG), Piperine (PP), Picroside-I (P-I), Picroside-II (P-II), α-Cyprone (AC), 6-Shogaol (6S), and 6-Gingerol (6G) were quantified in JKC formulations by HPLC method. Detection was performed at the wavelength (λ) of 229 nm for AG, 343 nm for PP, 279 nm for P-I, 264 nm for P-II, 254 nm for AC, and 280 nm for both 6S and 6G by HPLC–PDA detector. Results The marker compounds in JKC formulations were observed in different retention times (Rt) i.e. AG at 3.060 ± 0.01 min, PP at 5.460 ± 0.03 min, P-I at 2.789 ± 0.02 min, P-II at 2.553 ± 0.03 min, AC at 10.951 ± 0.02 min, 6S at 6.302 ± 0.03 min, and 6G at 4.111 ± 0.02 min respectively. The proposed method was validated with acceptable linearity (r2 0.9995–0.9999), precision, robustness, ruggedness, and accuracy (RSD

This comprehensive review investigates the dynamic landscape of trace elemental analysis methodologies applied to plants and food-based extracts. The exploration spans from the inception of techniques to the latest procedures, contributing to heightened precision and sensitivity in elemental detection. According to the WHO, herbal plants and medicine from varied soil compositions serve as crucial therapeutic agents for 70–80 % of the world's population. Yet, their susceptibility to trace element toxicity poses a significant risk to human health. Rising population and increased food demands have led to environmental pollution, contaminating the food chain through unintended activities like industrialization, mining, and pesticide production. The elemental composition of plants and derived extracts is central to comprehending nutritional profiles, evaluating product quality, and ensuring food safety. Methodological advancements, progressing from manual procedures to sophisticated technologies such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), neutron activation analysis (NAA), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP OES), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), are delineated. Recent strides in paper-based electrochemical sensors are highlighted for their distinctive capabilities and elucidation of associated advantages and limitations.Moreover, the review delves into innovative sample preparation methodologies, encompassing microwave-assisted digestion and solid-phase microextraction, to amplify the efficiency of elemental extraction and subsequent analysis. Integrating data analytics and machine learning in elucidating complex elementary datasets is explored, underscoring the potential for heightened accuracy and automation in trace elemental analysis. This review compiles literature data, summarizing sample preparation methods for various herbal parts (roots, soil, stems, bark, fruits, food). Standard protocols from WHO, United States Pharmacopeia-National Formulary (USP-FR), Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) are considered. Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, and Arsenic are the primary toxic elements of concern in herbal medicines. This review furnishes valuable insights tailored for researchers, analysts, and policymakers actively involved in advancing the domain of trace elemental analysis in plants and food-based extract.

Background: Lapis judaicus, or Jews stone (Badarashma), has been used in treating kidney and bladder stones since ancient times by Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal practitioners. A limited number of studies have been carried out using Ayurvedic preparations derived from gems or precious stones that were used traditionally. In Ayurveda, Rasa Shastra includes the fabrication of Bhasmas and Pishti. Objective: This study aimed to prepare and characterize Badarashma Pishti formulation (Lapis judaicus microparticles) and investigate its structural and thermal properties. Materials and methods: The microparticles were prepared by subjecting purified powder of Lapis judaicus to a wet levigation (Bhavana) process. Characterizations were done using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermo-gravimetry analysis (TGA), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Physicochemical characterization, elemental analysis, particle size distribution study, and identification of heavy metals were also performed. Results: A standard operating procedure was developed to formulate Badarashma Pishti. The obtained microparticles were irregularly shaped with a size of 4.290 ± 0.472 μm, confirmed in SEM images. The FTIR and XRD of prepared Badarashma Pishti samples revealed the presence of calcite, quartz, and aragonite minerals. The results of EDAX also confirmed the presence of Ca, Mg, O, and Si elements. Conclusion: The proposed study results reveal great insights for determining the authenticity, purity, and standardization parameters of inorganic mineral drugs, proving to be a useful delivery system for treating renal calculi.

Abstract While digital computers rely on software-generated pseudo-random number generators, hardware-based true random number generators (TRNGs), which employ the natural physics of the underlying hardware, provide true stochasticity, and power and area efficiency. Research into TRNGs has extensively relied on the unpredictability in phase transitions, but such phase transitions are difficult to control given their often abrupt and narrow parameter ranges (e.g., occurring in a small temperature window). Here we demonstrate a TRNG based on self-oscillations in LaCoO3 that is electrically biased within its spin crossover regime. The LaCoO3 TRNG passes all standard tests of true stochasticity and uses only half the number of components compared to prior TRNGs. Assisted by phase field modeling, we show how spin crossovers are fundamentally better in producing true stochasticity compared to traditional phase transitions. As a validation, by probabilistically solving the NP-hard max-cut problem in a memristor crossbar array using our TRNG as a source of the required stochasticity, we demonstrate solution quality exceeding that using software-generated randomness.

Abstract The exhaust gases in production of burnt clay bricks is responsible for greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission which increase the carbon footprint in the ecosystem. Here, we report carbon emission and thermal performance based evaluation of 8 ft. × 9 ft. × 8 ft. building. The bricks used in building construction are manufactured from fly ash, agro-forestry wastes, construction & demolition wastes (C&D), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) using NaOH as activator in order to provide compressive strength in the range of 3–6 MPa with ambient curing at 30 °C for 28 days. Life cycle analysis (LCA) reveals the total CO2 emission for fly ash and burnt clay bricks estimated to be 43.28 gCO2 and 290 gCO2 per brick, respectively. Considering the current scenario, by replacing 1–2% of brunt clay bricks with agro-forestry waste, C&D waste based fly ash bricks can potentially reduce 0.5–1.5 million tons of CO2 emission annually. The embodied energy calculation shows fly ash based bricks consumes 10–15 times less energy as compared to burnt clay bricks. Thermal paremeters viz., U-value (0.5–1.2 W/m2K), thermal conductivity (0.4–0.5 W/mK) show adequate insulation of agro-forestry waste based fly ash bricks highlighting its importance of thermal comfort, CO2 reduction along with sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices.

Purpose – The present study investigates the impact of digital entrepreneurial education and training and its impact on the digital entrepreneurial intention (EI) through the mediating character of entrepreneurial competence. Design/methodology/approach – A total of 391 survey responses were collected from employees using convenient and snowball sampling methods. Findings – Digital entrepreneurial education and training showed a positive influence on entrepreneurial competence and EI, with entrepreneurial competence mediating the relationship between digital entrepreneurial education and training practices and EI. Research limitations/implications – This study is intended to assist the development of digital entrepreneurs. The implications of this study are also useful for governments, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, angel investors and various international development institutions. Originality/value – The novelty of this study relates to exploring the relationship between digital entrepreneurial education and training, entrepreneurial competence and digital EI.

Introduction: Head and neck (H&N) neoplasms, both in advanced stages and during their oncologic therapy, cause interferences with wild psycho-physical implications and impact on family and partner life, social, relational, and working dimensions. Many studies were conducted on sexual function in oncology patients with breast, pelvic, or prostate organs. Nevertheless, few studies investigated the sexualities of patients with head and neck cancer. Purpose: of the Study: Head and neck cancer patients are often at risk of sexual problems due to the possibility of disfigurement and body image disturbance. These issues in cancer patients may have a significant effect on their psychological well-being. These issues can cause guilt, low life satisfaction, less intimacy, etc. This study aims to give an insight into the association between intimacy, sexual performance, and life satisfaction in patients with head and neck cancer. Methods: We thoroughly reviewed current literature, examining multiple scholarly articles and journals available online. We used electronic databases and search engines such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate, using key terms such as ''head and neck cancer,'' ''sexual performance,'' ''life satisfaction,'' ''intimacy,'' and ''oral cancer'' to identify relevant studies. Consistency in the definition of these concepts was maintained by excluding synonymous keywords from our search. A total of 78 papers were initially selected on the basis of the titles. According to the research objectives, a total of 53 papers were selected after thorough investigation of the abstract. Further, we have removed duplicate and inaccessible articles from the review process. Then after thoughtful consideration, it was brought down to 27 articles on the basis of their relevance to the study. Only studies that were published in the last 20 years were taken in review. Results: Our review synthesized findings from some studies examining the association of sexual performance and intimacy with satisfaction in life of head and neck cancer patients. Across the included studies, a consistent pattern emerged, highlighting the significant impact of sexual function and intimate relationships on overall life satisfaction in this patient population. These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating interventions targeting sexual and intimacy-related concerns into the comprehensive care of individuals living with head and neck cancer. Conclusions: In conclusion, the findings highlighted the importance of addressing sexual health and intimate relationship concerns as integral components of comprehensive care for head and neck cancer patients. Healthcare providers should prioritize open communication, psycho education, and support services to help patients navigate the challenges associated with changes in sexual behaviour and intimacy.

Suicide is a notable cause of mortality worldwide, with cancer patients having almost double the rate of suicide deaths compared to the general US population. Living with head and neck cancer is psychologically and emotionally distressing for the patient. Effects of treatment such as ingestion impairment, communication impediment, aesthetic compromise, and hindrance to breathing all contribute to their emotional distress. This review aims to investigate the impact of emotional distress and suicidal ideation in Head and Neck Cancer patients. Empirical studies as well as review papers were utilized to gather relevant information from databases such as Google Search, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect. The following search terms were used; ‘Emotional Distress’, ‘Psychological Response’, ‘Emotional Response’, ‘Suicide’, ‘Suicide in Cancer’, and ‘Suicidal thoughts in Head and Neck Cancer'. 30 articles matching the theme of our review were considered for data synthesis. The findings of the previous studies reveal a strong positive correlation between emotional distress and suicidal ideation in Head and Neck cancer. In addition to the existing findings, emotional distress was also correlated with poor quality of life and physical symptoms. In conclusion, the treatment of cancer-associated distress is equally crucial as the treatment of the physical illness. Moreover, emotional support can significantly reduce the level of emotional distress and suicidal ideation and elevate the chances of speedy recovery in those patients. Future research must address the psychological demands of Head and Neck cancer patients and offer an effective therapeutic intervention.

Oral cancer and its treatment have major implications on a patient, including physical as well as psychological barriers to a patient's life which can significantly hinder a patient's rehabilitation process. Surgical interventions along with chemotherapy can cause major psychological and physical distress to a patient. Thereupon it is important to understand these issues so that they can be treated and rehabilitated smoothly and successfully. Major databases including- ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar were searched, and relevant peer reviewed papers and articles were extracted for the review, furthermore, reference screening was also conducted. Some of the physical issues involved mucositis, facial aesthetics impairment, voice impairment, reduced mobility of lips, tongue and overall buccal region, which lead to psychological issues including depression, eating disorders, anxiety, public avoidance, social isolation and so on. Effective rehabilitation of the patients is essential as it will predict their quality of life thus helping them return to their normal functioning after treatment. Large sample empirical studies are required to test the effectiveness of various psychotherapies used to alleviate these bottleneck issues and focus should be given on improving the patient's psychological quality of life.

Emotional distress is a psychological response that occurs in the form of mental suffering to an experience that arises from the any negative event or condition. It commonly occurs in patients who suffer from cancer-related physical pain throughout the treatments. Cancer patients face a lot of exhaustion which makes them physically and mentally dysfunctional in their daily lives. However, the Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients face some serious issues due to the site of tumour or surgery itself. The current study aims to describe how chemotherapy and physical pain cause emotional distress in HNC patients. Furthermore, the study aims to determine the association between all three factors (Emotional distress, pain, and chemotherapy) and highlight the relevance of care and remediation needs for HNC patients. The literature related to the concerned topic was investigated including empirical research papers, review papers. In total, the authors identified and reviewed 42 articles related to the above-mentioned variables. These articles were obtained from different databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, JSTOR and Research Gate. The authors then assessed the full texts of the selected articles for eligibility and extracted data from them. The study revealed that cancer patients who have tolerated physical pain and witnessed the long-term treatment of the process of chemotherapy experience extremely high emotional distress throughout the course. It was also observed that psychological distress is more common in HNC patients than in patients with cancer in other body parts. The main findings of the result indicated that emotional distress was much higher in females. Psychosocial support and palliative care should be integrated to encourage and improve the abilities of cancer-affected patients.

In a world beset with crises, everyone from professional manager down to the layman is keen to understand how to make quick decisions under emerging disruptive situations. This article, employing self-reflective analysis of critical incidents, describes the author’s personal experiences from the field of adventure sports categorised as high-risk, critical decisions, involving split-second choices—while sky-diving and flying—to trace the mental cognitive processes from a decision maker’s perspective. This is used to discuss and establish a practitioners’ operational framework for high-risk, critical decision scenarios, drawing upon established theories and frameworks from cognitive, social and psychological decision research.

IntroductionThe emergence of disinfectant resistance has become a severe threat due to reduced effectiveness. This study was undertaken to determine how bacteria adapt to survive exposure to disinfectants in the busiest section of a tertiary care hospital in Varanasi, India.MethodsFour isolates (two Klebsiella pneumoniae, Kp1 and Kp2; two Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pa1 and Pa2) were obtained from chlorhexidine (CHX)–based handwash during microbiological surveillance of “in-use disinfectants” in hospital. Six disinfectants [4% CHX, 2% glutaraldehyde, 7.5% hydrogen peroxide, 1% sodium hypochlorite and 0.1% benzalkonium chloride (BAC), and 70% ethyl alcohol] were tested against these four isolates to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Antibiotic profile, change in MIC on exposure to disinfectants and biofilm formation in the presence and absence of disinfectants was studied. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was done to identify the resistance mechanisms.ResultThe isolates showed the highest MBC/MIC ratio (4) against glutaraldehyde. Exposure to supra-inhibitory concentration of BAC for 21 days resulted in doubling of MIC/MBC. The majority (75%) of the isolates were multidrug resistant. All the isolates were strong biofilm producers. The reduction rate of biofilm formation decreased with an increase in the concentration of disinfectants (p = 0.05 for BAC). WGS revealed multiple AMR genes including blaDIM-1, disinfectant-resistant gene and efflux pump genes.ConclusionThe study emphasized the various adaptation strategies of these isolates for survival in disinfectant environment, thus posing a huge challenge for their control in the hospital environment.

Abstract Agro-waste is the outcome of the under-utilization of bioresources and a lack of knowledge to re-use this waste in proper ways or a circular economy approach. In the Indian medicinal system, the root of Cyperus scariosus (CS) is used at a large scale due to their vital medicinal properties. Unfortunately, the aerial part of CS is treated as agro-waste and is an under-utilized bioresource. Due to a lack of knowledge, CS is treated as a weed. This present study is the first ever attempt to explore CS leaves as medicinally and a nutrient rich source. To determine the food and nutritional values of the neglected part of Cyperus scariosus R.Br. (CS), i.e. CS leaves, phytochemicals and metal ions of CS were quantified by newly developed HPLC and ICPOES-based methods. The content of the phytochemicals observed in HPLC analysis for caffeic acid, catechin, epicatechin, trans-p-coumaric acid, and trans-ferulic acid was 10.51, 276.15, 279.09, 70.53, and 36.83 µg/g, respectively. In GC–MS/MS analysis, fatty acids including linolenic acid, phytol, palmitic acid, etc. were identified. In ICPOES analysis, the significant content of Na, K, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Zn was observed. The TPC and TFC of the CS leaves was 17.933 mg GAE eq./g and 130.767 mg QCE eq./g along with an IC50 value of 2.78 mg/mL in the DPPH assay and better antacid activity was measured than the standard (CaCO3). The methanolic extract of CS leaves showed anti-microbial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (15 ± 2 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12 ± 2 mm) and Escherichia coli (10 ± 2 mm). In silico studies confirmed the in vitro results obtained from the antioxidant, antiacid, and anti-microbial studies. In addition, in silico studies revealed the anti-cancerous and anti-inflammatory potential of the CS leaves. This study, thus, demonstrated the medicinal significance of the under-utilized part of CS and the conversion of agro-waste into mankind activity as a pharmaceutical potent material. Consequently, the present study highlighted that CS leaves have medicinal importance with good nutritional utility and have a large potential in the pharmaceutical industry along with improving bio-valorization and the environment.

Introduction: The postictal state is a temporary condition that occurs after seizures, often characterized by EEG slowing or suppression, and can last from minutes to days. Seizures can be accompanied by various postictal complications, including headache, automatism, delirium, psychosis, functional deficits, neuropsychological deficits, and abnormal behavioral manifestations. Effective management of postictal states requires identification of associated comorbidities and underlying neurological and systemic disorders. However, there is limited information regarding the causes, prevalence, and optimal treatment of postictal complications following status epilepticus. This study aimed to determine the different types of postictal complications and comorbidities. Materials and Methods: Patients with status epilepticus were observed after their seizure episode subsided, and their medical history and comorbidities were recorded. It was a cross sectional observation study. 100 participants were selected for the study at MLB Medical College, Jhansi, between March 2020 and November 2021. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants after explaining the study's objectives and procedures. Results: The most common postictal complication observed in our study was headache, experienced by 51% of patients after the seizure subsided. Delirium was observed in approximately 28% of patients, while psychosis and automatism were reported by 9% and 8% of patients, respectively. Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that individuals with seizures have significantly higher odds of experiencing various comorbid conditions compared to those without seizures. The strongest association was found between seizures and stroke.

Quality of life is a concept referring to the physical, psychological and emotional well-being of individuals. It is affected by various aspects of one’s life including physical health, interpersonal relationships, psychological well-being and other environmental factors. Head and neck cancer patients undergo surgery and chemotherapy which could lead to changes in their facial appearance as well as voice and speech, resulting in self-image anxiety. It impacts the patients’ self-esteem, perception and confidence negatively. This research aims to study how facial disfiguration and self-image anxiety affects the overall quality of life of head and neck cancer patients. The relationship between cancer and the quality of life of cancer patients is complex, as they face various challenges such as the disease itself, its treatment and the impact it has on their self-image. The existing literature related to the subject was examined, including various articles, review papers and research papers. Altogether, we identified and reviewed 20 articles. The inclusion criteria focused on papers on the quality of life of cancer patients, facial disfigurement post-surgery, self-image anxiety among head and neck cancer patients. The studies indicate that head and neck cancer patients experienced negative body image due to facial disfigurement from surgery and chemotherapy. This resulted in increased self-image anxiety among the cancer patients. It is observed that the physical pain, distress, facial disfiguration and self-image anxiety impacted their quality of life and overall well-being negatively.

Oral cancer as well as other Head and Neck cancer (HNC) patients face adverse effects because of the range of treatment and the possibility of treatment-related toxicity. This includes complications like skin desquamation, depression, mucositis, nausea and vomiting. It negatively impacts the Quality of life (QoL) of HNC patients post-treatment. The goal of this study was to conduct a literature review on the occurrence of various difficulties, such as nutrition, functional status, psychological well-being and decreased QoL in post-chemoradiotherapy in head and neck cancer survivors, specifically oral cancer survivors. Databases like Google Search, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ScienceDirect were searched with keywords such as ‘Chemoradiotherapy’, ‘Chemotherapy’, ‘Radiotherapy’, ‘Oral cancer’ ‘Head and Neck Cancer’ and ‘QoL’ ‘Quality of life’. 30 research papers fulfilled the criteria of focusing on Oral cancer and HNC patients. The head and neck carcinomas are close to various bodily structures involved in vital physiological and social activities components. Thereupon the collateral damage commonly associated with disease treatment affects essential bodily functions and can have adverse consequences on the QoL of the patients. Patients receiving concurrent chemoradiotherapy experience such substantial side effects that it hampers their ability to finish their treatment cycle without pauses or dose modifications. Therefore, it is essential to monitor and prevent such effects from CRT. Psychological interventions, palliative care and other such efforts can help improve the QoL of Oral cancer patients.

Introduction: Transsphenoidal resection of pituitary tumours presents challenges for an anaesthesiologist due to haemodynamic fluctuations caused by intense nociceptive stimuli during different surgical stages. This relatively short procedure requires a smooth and rapid emergence for spontaneous airway control and assessment of surgical outcomes. Therefore, the chosen anaesthetic agent should provide effective haemodynamic control and facilitate rapid recovery. Alpha-2 agonists such as dexmedetomidine and clonidine are known to centrally decrease noradrenaline release, thus reducing sympathetic outflow. This could be particularly beneficial in minimising haemodynamic fluctuations during such surgeries. Aim: To compare the effects of preoperative clonidine and perioperative dexmedetomidine in attenuating haemodynamic responses and blood loss in patients undergoing elective Transnasal Transsphenoidal resection (TNTS) of pituitary tumours. Materials and Methods: A randomised, double-blinded study was conducted in the Department of Neuroanesthesiology at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, over a period of one year, from February 2022 to January 2023. Sixty patients of either sex, aged 18-65 years with ASA I or II, scheduled for elective TNTS pituitary surgery, were enrolled and divided into group A and group B. Group A received clonidine tablets (3 mcg/kg) 180 minutes prior to surgery, while group B received intravenous (i.v.) infusion of dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg/min) over 10 minutes before induction, followed by 0.5-0.7 mcg/kg/hr. Group A received a placebo of 0.9% Normal Saline (NS) (50 mL). Heart Rate (HR), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) were recorded at baseline, intubation, nasal pack insertion, endoscope insertion, and at various time intervals. Data obtained were analysed using unpaired sample t-test for independent groups, and Chi-square test was used for categorical data. A probability value of 0.05 was considered significant for both statistical tests. Results: The mean age of participants was 42±11 years for group A and 43±12 years for group B, with a male: female ratio of 66.6% to 33.3% in group A and 70% to 30% in group B, respectively. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 26.4±3.2 in group A and 25.2±1.7 in group B. HR, SBP, and MAP decreased at various stages in group B compared to group A, and these differences were statistically significant (p-value

Study purpose. The COVID-19 pandemic has a considerable impact on social and financial factors in addition to health outcomes. There is, however, still little information available as to how Covid-19 actually impacted housewives. Consequently, this paper aims to provide a new dimension to the study of how vinyasa could support mothers’ fitness throughout the pandemic. This study sought to determine whether an online vinyasa programme for 8 weeks during Covid-19 pandemic could significantly influence housewives’ upper and lower body muscle endurance. Materials and methods. 24 housewives (between the ages of 26 and 36) from the NCR region of Delhi participated in the study. The participants were divided at random and put either into the experimental group (vinyasa) or the control group. Both upper and lower body muscular endurance was found to be the health-related variable. The longest-lasting bent knee push-ups were used to gauge upper body muscular endurance, while the longest-lasting bodyweight squat holds over a 90-degree angle were used to gauge lower body muscle endurance. Results. To analyse the findings, tests were run both prior to and following the training. A substantial difference between the experimental group and control group was found using ANCOVA to compare them to the baseline after 8 weeks. Conclusions. Thus, it was determined that the online/virtual vinyasa training programme was a successful way for housewives to increase their body muscular endurance (health-related fitness).

Background Plants have been pivotal in traditional and modern medicine globally, with historical evidence supporting their therapeutic applications. Nigella (Nigella sativa L.) is an annual herbaceous plant of the Ranunculaceae family and is cultivated in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Western and Central Asia. The medicinal use of plants dates back thousands of years, documented in ancient writings from various civilizations. Alkaloids, phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, anthraquinones, and tannins found in plants exhibit antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities. Methodology This study specifically examines the pharmacological potential of Nigella sativa L., emphasizing thymoquinone—a compound with diverse nutraceutical benefits. The extraction, characterization, and quantification of thymoquinone, alongside other physicochemical parameters, were carried out using ethanol through Soxhlet extraction procedures on five nigella varieties. HPLC analysis was performed to determine the maximum accumulation of thymoquinone in the released variety of the plant and the chemical composition of the seed oil isolated from Nigella sativa L., varieties utilized in the study was determined through GC-MS analysis. Results The research revealed that the Ajmer nigella-20 variety stands out, exhibiting elevated levels of thymoquinone (0.20 ± 0.07%), antioxidants (76.18 ± 1.78%), and substantial quantities of total phenols (31.85 ± 0.97 mg GAEg−1 seed) and flavonoids (8.150 ± 0.360 mg QE 100 g−1 seed) compared to other varieties. The GC-MS profiling showed the presence of 11 major compounds in the studied varieties, with p-cymene, longifolene, and myristic acid identified as the major chemical compounds present in the oil. Conclusion The observed variations among Nigella varieties indicate the Ajmer nigella-20 variety as particularly promising for thymoquinone and bioactive compound extraction. This study underscores Nigella’s potential as a source of pharmacologically active compounds, highlighting the need for further exploration in therapeutic applications.

Adhatoda or Justicia is one of the biggest and complex genera of the Acanthaceae family. Adhatoda vasica is commonly known as ‘Adosa’. It is an ayurvedic medicine with a medicinal history of more than a thousand years in India. Traditionally, it is used to treat cough, asthma, phlegm, bleeding hemorrhoids, for both adults and youth. This plant possesses antiarthritis, antiseptic, antimicrobial, anti-tuberculosis, anti-inflammatory and abortifacient properties. Alkaloids are the major phytoconstituents present in the plant in the form of pyrrolo-quinazoline derivatives viz vasicine, vasicinone, vasicinol, adhatodine, adhatodinine, adhavasinone and anisotine etc. The asserted objectives are to conduct a systematic review on the phytochemistry, pharmacology and traditional uses of A. vasica, as well as highlighting the challenges found in the research. This will promote the utilization of A. vasica at extract level and further development of new drug leads based on the compounds isolated and used for treatment of various ailments. The present review covers the literature survey from 1888 to 2023. The relevant data has been collected from various peer-reviwed journals, and books via Sci-Finder, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, EBSCO, online electronic journals, SpringerLink and Wiley. This paper aims to present a systematic review of known traditional applications, pharmacological and chemical aspects in Adhatoda vasica.

The stem bark of Salix alba (SA) is extensively used in herbal medicine and nutraceuticals. The non-availability of quality standard available for SA stem bark in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India (API) leads inability to trace adulteration. In the current study, quality standard of SA stem bark has been developed in the interest of quality control, as per international standards including API parameters. The geographical changes could play a vital role in phytochemicals’ and nutrients’ variations. Hence, the samples from different geolocations and markets were analysed along with the cultivated plant sample. A comprehensive study including identification and authentication by DNA barcoding and pharmacognostic evaluation, physicochemical and phytochemical analysis by HPTLC was carried out. Moreover, a validated HPLC method was developed for the quantification of three phytochemicals (Salicin, Procyanidin B1 and Catechin) for the standardization of SA stem bark. The complete profiling of volatile metabolites and non-volatile metabolites was done by using GC–MS and LC-MS techniques, respectively. In ICP-OES based elemental analysis, heavy metals were observed below permissible limits, and SA stem bark has shown significant amount of essential metal ions like Na, Mg, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn. The observed total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) for all samples of SA stem bark ranged from 16.69 to 50.30 mg GAE/ g of wt. and 124.57 to 347.76 mg QCE/ g of wt., respectively. In DPPH assay, the observed IC50 values of SA stem bark ranged from 0.58 to 2.08 mg/mL. In antibacterial assay, SA stem bark has shown promising results against S. aureus and B. subtilis strains with inhibition zones of 20 ± 4 mm. Overall, this is first report comprising of advanced quality standard and detailed standardization of SA stem bark with quantification of three important phytochemicals by HPLC along with the quantification of essential metal ions and other in vitro assays. Moreover, the study revealed that the fresh stem bark sample may contain significant content of phytochemicals and antibacterial activity.

In this research, AA7068/Si3N4 composites were fabricated through stir casting with the attachment of ultrasonic treatment. The quenching medium and aging duration significantly influenced the hardness of Al alloy samples. Peak hardness was achieved after 12 h of artificial aging at the temperature of 140°C. The addition of nano Si3N4 significantly refined the microstructure of unreinforced AA7068. The dispersion of intermetallic compounds (MgZn2) and grain boundary discontinuation were noticed after the T-6 heat treatment. Ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness were improved by 70.95%, 76.19%, and 44.33%, respectively, with the addition of 1.5 weight % Si3N4 compared to as-cast alloy due to the combined effect of heat treatment, hall-Petch, Orowan, thermal miss match, load-bearing strengthening mechanisms and uniform dispersion of reinforcement. A reduction in percentage elongation was noticed due to composites’ brittle nature by the effect of ceramic Si3N4 particles’ inclusion. The fracture surfaces reveal ductile failure for alloy and mixed-mode failure in the case of composites.

ABSTRACT: Mononuclear complex of composition [ZnII(L)].2H2O (1) (H2L = 2-((Z)-(2-(2-(2-((Z)-3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxybenzylideneamino)phenoxy)ethoxy)phenylimino)methyl)-4,6-di-tert‑butylphenol) has been synthesized and characterized. In the complex 1, the ZnII at the center is coordinated by two imine nitrogen atoms, two phenolate oxygen atoms and one ether oxygen atom from the ligand, resulting in a distorted square-pyramidal ZnN2O3 coordination geometry. Complex 1 is photoluminescence active with stokes shift of 115 nm. Geometrical parameters were computed using the Density Functional Theory (DFT) method, specifically B3LYP, with the 6–311G++(d,p) basis sets. The charge distribution within the molecule was visualized through Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP) surface analysis. The energy levels of the Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital (HOMO) and Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (LUMO) were determined that revealing substantial charge transfer within the molecule. Hirshfeld surface analysis was conducted in both three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) perspectives to investigate the electron distribution on the molecular surface. The Electron Localization Function (ELF) Figure was utilized to investigate the degree of relative electron localization within the molecule. Moreover, a Fukui functional analysis was employed to identify potential sites for chemical attack by different substituents. The process involved in the creation of the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP), followed by the generation of a three-dimensional color-coded visualization to emphasize reactive areas. In the realm of biological investigation, four separate receptors such as 5HL1, 8BSK, 6UJM and 6UL9 were utilized for molecular docking analyses. These analyses aimed to evaluate interactions between ligands and proteins, as well as to uncover potential resemblances among drugs.

Adiantum venustum D. Don (Himalayan or Evergreen maiden hair fern), also known as ‘Hansraj’ in India, is a pteridophytes that grows extensively in tropical and temperate areas. It has been used in traditional medicines to treatment cough, cold, fever, and headache. However, the information available is scarce and scattered. So, the primary goal of this review is to provide complete and updated knowledge about the distribution, morphology, pharmacognostic characteristics, chemistry and biological activities of A. venustum to assess its therapeutic potential and future research opportunities. Different parts of this fern have been extensively used in traditional medicines to treatment diseases from time immemorial. It is a reservoir of active chemical compounds like terpenoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, sterol, carotenoids and others, which possesses antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, and anti-analgesic properties. The current review has been designed to provide the upto-date knowledge and perspectives about A. venustum and its potential use as a therapeutic plant. So, researchers should take a keen interest in exploring and isolating new active components, bio-assay their pharmaceutical values and mode of action, and conducting clinical trials to justify their reported studies on human health benefits.

Justicia adhatoda L. has wide applications in traditional and modern medicine. Its major potency is due to the presence of two alkaloids viz. Vasicine and Vasicinone. In industry, the demand for both marker compounds as well as quality Justicia adhatoda L. material is very high. The isolation of bioactive phytochemical compounds for the development of an in-house phytochemical reference standard library to verify quality control is of prime demand for an analytical chemist. For these reasons, the objective of the present study was to isolate two members of the alkaloids Vasicine and Vasicinone marker compounds from Justicia adhatoda L. Extraction was carried out by using a cold percolation method in a successive manner by increasing the order of polarity of the solvents from petroleum-ether to ethanol. Isolation was achieved for the above said two maker compounds by using separation, purification though column chromatography on silica-gel using mobile phase chloroform, and ethanol. Characterization of the isolated compounds was carried out by UV–VIS, IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectroscopy techniques. The isolated and purified solid compounds were confirmed as Vasicine and Vasicinone by comparison and co-relating with observed spectroscopy data and literature data. The compounds had a good to high amount of yield (0.4 % to 0.63 %) with high purity (98–100 %) through HPL. Lastly, frontier molecular orbital analysis (HOMO and LUMO), and global descriptive parameters (such as chemical potential, electronegativity, hardness, softness, etc.) were analyzed using computational approaches. Results revealed a good correlation with experimental data except for a few alternations in 1H NMR data.

Gairika (red ochre) has a long history of influencing human civilization. Gairika is a rich source of nutrients used for reproductive and brain health. Gairika is mentioned as an antacid drug in Indian Ayurvedic medicine under Laghu Sutashekhara Rasa (LSR). However, a detailed study on LSR has not been reported to date. In the present study, LSR was prepared, and a pharmaceutical SOP (standardization procedure) was reported to obtain batch-to-batch reproducibility. LSR was characterized using FTIR, XRD, SEM-EDX, and TGA analyses. LSR was tested in vitro for its antacid activity. Advanced instrumentation revealed that LSR formation produced symmetrical particles (5–8 µm) with kaolin, kaolinite, quartz, goethite, and hematite, along with the phytoconstituents of Goghrita (clarified cow’s butter), Shunthi, and Nagawalli, as confirmed by GC-MS/MS analysis. The FTIR study revealed the formation of a chelating complex of goethite and hematite along with their phytoconstituents. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of kaolin, kaolinite, quartz, goethite, and hematite. Using in vitro antacid experiments, LSR and Shunthi demonstrated significant antacid activity as compared to antacid drugs and standards in the market, such as CaCO3. The DPPH assay revealed IC50 values of 12.16 ± 1.23 mg/mL, which is 0.0029 of Trolox-equivalent antioxidant activity. The inhibition (18 ± 4 mm) against pathogens (S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and B. subtilis) and the prominent growth of gut microbiota-supported strains (S. boulardii, L. paracasei, and L. plantarum) observed on LSR formulation were indicative of LSR application as a prebiotic. Here, the mechanism of purification and levigation mentioned in the classical literature of LSR was established. Overall, purification of Gairika with cow ghee and levigation with Nagawalli may enhance the solubility, bioavailability, and shelf-life of LSR through hydration and co-crystallization mechanisms. This is the first comprehensive report on the pharmaceutical validation of LSR and its characterization. The results of the present study could contribute to the development and reliable reproduction of LSR and the utility of environmental red ochre as a medicine in combination with Shunthi (Zingiber officinale Roxb.), as prescribed under Indian Ayurvedic medicine.

Background: Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are the most commonly occurring birth defects. Clinically significant CHD necessitates percutaneous or operative intervention early in life. Accurate knowledge of the morphology and caliber of the pulmonary arteries and pulmonary valve is important in surgical planning, postoperative complications, and long-term outcome of various CHDs. This study aimed to compare echocardiography and computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the evaluation of the pulmonary arteries and pulmonary annulus in children with cyanotic CHD with right ventricular outflow obstruction. Materials and Methods: Our study was a cross-sectional study involving 39 children under the age of 2 years with diagnosed cyanotic CHD. Spectrum included were tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), TOF with pulmonary atresia, double-outlet right ventricle-TOF type, pulmonary atresia, and pulmonary stenosis. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography, followed by CTA. Images were reconstructed and analyzed, and the results were compared with echocardiography. Results: There was a good correlation between echocardiography and CTA in the evaluation of the caliber of pulmonary arteries and pulmonary valve, with a Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.85, 0.69, 0.62, and 0.73 for the main pulmonary artery (MPA), right pulmonary artery (RPA), left pulmonary artery (LPA), and pulmonary valve, respectively. There was an underestimation of the caliber of the main, right, and left pulmonary arteries with echocardiography (with a bias of 0.73 ± 1.96 mm, 0.01 ± 2.3 mm, and 0.17 ± 1.3 mm for the MPA, RPA, and LPA, respectively) and overestimation of the caliber of the pulmonary annulus (with a bias of −0.07 ± 2.20 mm). Conclusions: Despite a good correlation and agreement in the measurement of vessel diameters, echocardiography may misdiagnose certain cases of valvular or arterial stenosis as atresia, or may fail to visualize the structures entirely. In such patients, further evaluation with CTA may be required.

Heterotaxy syndromes result from the failure of normal lateralization, resulting in the abnormal arrangement of cardiothoracic and abdominal viscera. These are associated with a disproportionate morbidity and mortality rate, mandating early diagnosis, and surgical intervention. Accurate determination of situs, as well as congenital abnormalities, is necessary for surgical planning and determination of postoperative outcome and quality of life. In this case series, we present the spectrum of cardiac, pulmonary, and systemic vascular abnormalities associated with heterotaxy syndromes. Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CTA) was performed on 10 patients with heterotaxy syndromes diagnosed on echocardiography. We found that the most common congenital heart disease associated with heterotaxy in our case series was atrioventricular septal defect. Among the extracardiac vascular abnormalities, pulmonary infundibular stenosis, right-sided aortic arch, and double superior vena cava were common. Moreover, not all cases displayed congruence between cardiac, tracheobronchial, and visceral situs. In conclusion, CTA is useful in the diagnosis of intracardiac and extracardiac vascular abnormalities associated with heterotaxy syndromes. In addition, it gives valuable information about the tracheobronchial situs, visceral situs, and other congenital abnormalities.

Context: In 2018, Government of India initiated Home-Based Care for Young Child (HBYC) program having five quarterly structured home visits for children age 3 to 15 months to promote early childhood development. Assess knowledge and practices of Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHAs), other health functionaries, and mothers related to HBYC. Cross-sectional evaluation design with ASHAs, AWWs, ANMs, ASHA, and mothers of 3 to 15 month's children as participants. Material and Methods: Knowledge and practices of 801 ASHAs, 200 other health functionaries, and 787 mothers were assessed on exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, hand washing, iron folic acid (IFA) and oral rehydration solution (ORS) supplementation, danger referral signs in eight aspirational districts of Madhya Pradesh. Results: 88% ASHAs had correct knowledge on ORS, 85% on complementary feeding, 85% on adequacy of IFA, and 47% on danger signs which required child referral. Similarly, 85% of mothers had knowledge on exclusive breastfeeding, 40% mothers knew about complementary feeding, and only 18% knew correct ORS preparation. Statistically significant association was observed between ASHAs home visits and availability of ORS with mothers and their knowledge on correct Initiation of IFA (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Findings of study confirmed majority of health functionaries were aware about roles, responsibilities, and key tasks under HBYC. However, there observed a gap in knowledge transfer by health functionaries and thus inadequate translation of knowledge into practices among mothers on HBYC. This necessitates the need of appropriate actions from health system strengthening to capacity building to accelerate uptake of HBYC program.

Abstract Dill seeds (Anethum graveolens L.) is the most valuable medicinal seed spice crop of Apiaceae. It bears small yellow flowers in the form of umbels. Being a cross-pollinated crop, floral visitors play vital role in pollination and seed sets. Hence, the present study was conducted at the ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Ajmer (Rajasthan), India to discover the pollinator’s community, foraging behaviour and abundance of most frequent pollinators and different modes of pollination on seed yield and quality of this seed spice crop. The insect visitors community of dill seeds was composed of 28 insect species belonging to 14 families of 6 orders. Most of floral visitors started their foraging activity at 8.00 h, reached peak activity between 12.00 and 14.00 h and their activity ceased at 18.00 h. Apis florea, A. dorsata, A. mellifera, solitary bee, Halictus sp. and two unidentified species of Hymenoptera; Episyrphus balteatus (DeGeer), Episyrphus sp., Eristalis sp and two other Musca species of Diptera were identified as potential and regular floral visitors of dill seeds. The highest seed yield of 1505.63 kg/ha was recorded in the treated plots provided with only 10% jaggery solution and was at par with the open pollination. A lower seed yield of 1432.5 kg/ha was recorded in plots pollinated only with A. mellifera inside insect cages. Open pollination with 10% jaggery solution spray increased the seed yield of dill seed crop by 57%, one-thousand seed test weight by 96% and the essential oil content by 27% over control plots. These results show that managed pollination is a much better way to enhance yields and quality of dill seed crop than other treatments including only honeybee-based pollination.

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

Objective: Calcified coronaries still remain a major challenge for interventional cardiologist. This study aims to evaluate safety and efficacy of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) in management of coronary artery calcification. Methods: This was a retrospective single centre study regarding the utility of IVL in management of calcified coronaries. Patients with hemodynamically stable acute coronary syndrome or symptomatic chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) and calcified coronaries on angiography and who underwent IVL were enrolled. Intravascular imaging was performed wherever feasible. The primary endpoint was procedural success. In addition, data regarding procedural complications were collected. Results: A total of 29 patients underwent IVL with a majority being males and having comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes. A procedural success rate of 93.1% was achieved with no patient having >50% residual stenosis. IVL catheter was successfully delivered in all patients. The mean catheter diameter was 3.3 ± 0.4 mm and mean number of delivered pulses was 70.3 ± 16.4. The arteries most commonly intervened were the left main coronary and the left anterior descending artery. Intracoronary imaging revealed a significant increase in minimum luminal cross-sectional area (MLA) post IVL (pre-MLA: 5.1 ± 2.5 mm2; post-MLA: 10.7 ± 2.9 mm2; P

Abstract Crop residue management is a massive problem in the agriculture sector. Agricultural waste in the form of stubble which is usually burnt in the farm fields, causes severe air pollution and poses a threat to the environment. The present study investigates the addition of agro-waste (rice straw) in gypsum hollow-core blocks for partition walls. Various compositions of agro-waste-based gypsum samples have been studied for compressive strength, thermal, sound absorption, sound transmission loss, and fire-resistant properties. The addition of rice straw in gypsum reduces the density and compressive strength of the test sample, thus making it lightweight for non-load bearing wall application. The thermal conductivity of the rice straw added gypsum samples show a decrease in thermal conductivity from 0.2 to 0.11 W/m K. Acoustic properties viz., noise reduction coefficient (NRC) increases from 25 to 45% with increase in rice straw addition and a decreasing trend in sound transmission class (STC) from 37 to 28 dB. The fire-resistant properties viz., surface spread of flame, and fire propagation index test have shown good fire-resistant properties. The agro-waste-based hollow gypsum blocks may be used as a promising material for drywall partitions owing to its thermal insulation, low density, good acoustic and fire-resistant properties.

Background: The outcome of ABO-incompatible (ABOi) transplant (Tx) may be compromised because of the need for added immunosuppression. Many centers still use plasma exchange (PEX) even when anti-A/B titers are low. We compared the outcome of ABOi kidney Tx with low baseline anti-A/B titers without PEX to those with high titers managed with PEX and to ABO-compatible (ABOc) Tx. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, all adult kidney Tx done at our institute were eligible. Patients

Background: Anaemia has significant impact on health of the fetus as well as that of mother. Increased need of iron during pregnancy especially after 2nd trimester makes iron supplementation mandatory. Ferrous ascorbate is known to exist intact inside the gastrointestinal tract due to the stable chelation of iron with ascorbate. This compound does not dissociate due to any of the food inhibitors. The aim is to study the effectiveness of Ferrous Ascorbate and Ferrous sulphate in terms of compliance and cost effectiveness of management of anaemia in pregnancy. Methodology: Study design: Quasi Experimental study, Study area: District Vidisha, Study participants: Pregnant women of first trimester registered during the study period in the selected Anganwadis/ Gram Arogya Kendra (GAK), Sample size: 240 antenatal mothers. Results: Baseline mean haemoglobin was 11.31±1.05 gm/dl. The mean increase in Ferrous Sulphate was 0.55 gm/dl, and in Ferrous ascorbate was 1.27 gm/dl. Ferrous Sulphate was less compliant than Ferrous ascorbate, and has higher efficacy and lesser side effects. Only Rs. 10.2 additional cost per antenatal mothers for increase of ≥1gm% in Hb will be borne by government if Ferrous Sulphate is replaced by Ferrous Ascorbate. Conclusions: Study results show statistically significant difference in rise of haemoglobin amongst the antenatal mothers consuming Ferrous ascorbate over Ferrous Sulphate.

Coriander, fenugreek, nigella etc. are collectively known as seed spices. They are "High value and low volume crops" and considered cash crops for the growers of arid and semi-arid regions of India. Coriander, fenugreek and nigella are grown during the rabi season and take hardly 130-140 days to attain full maturity. In this context, farmers are not able to develop income from available arable land round the year, even though they have sufficient resources as well as manpower. Therefore, coriander, fenugreek and nigella-based cropping systems, four of each (total 12) were evaluated during 3 consecutive years (2019-20 to 2021-22) for their productivity, resource-use efficiency, economics and soil fertility. The results showed that among the seed spices-based cropping systems, maximum system productivity (5193 kg ha-1), production efficiency (18.81 kg ha-1 day-1), water-use efficiency (2.31 kg ha-1 mm-1), economic efficiency (11.85 US $ ha-1 day-1), net return (3270 US $ ha-1), benefit:cost ratio (3.27) and available N (165.6 kg ha-1) were observed under nigella-green coriander-mungbean cropping system. Hence, seed spices growers are recommended to adopt nigella-green coriander-mungbean cropping system in order to realize better productivity, resource-use efficiency, soil fertility and profitability.

To improve our understanding of the mechanisms that protect hair cells in the ear from stress-induced death, Ahmed et al delete the chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 7 (CHD7) in auditory neurons and hair cells in mice. They observe sensorineural hearing loss and demonstrate that CHD7 controls the expression of stress pathway components, which could help to explain how CHD7 haploinsufficiency causes changes in the ear associated with CHARGE syndrome.

Present study was carried out to assess the genetic variability and correlation for yield and its contributing traits using 89 elite lines of kabuli during rabi 2018-19. Analysis of variance revealed, the significant differences among the lines for all the traits indicated that the presence of sufficient amount of genetic variability among the lines. High GCV% and PCV % accounted for the traits seed yield per plant followed by stem height at initiation of first flower, number of effective pods per plant, total number of pods per plant and biological yield per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean noted for seed yield per plant, stem height at initiation of first flower and number of effective pods per plant. Selection of the line had more than 25 cm stem height at initiation of first flower, viz. FLIP12-278C, FLIP12-161C, JGK-2018-5, ICCV181309 and ICCV181305, would be suitable for mechanical harvesting. Seed yield per plant showed highly significant and positive association with biological yield per plant , harvest index, 100 seed weight , total number of effective pods per plant, while highly significant but negative correlation with days to pod initiation followed by days to 50% flowering and days to flower initiation. Lines identified having maximum 100 seed weight, viz. JGK-2018-1, JGK-2018-2, JGK-2018-3,JGK-2018-4, RVSVT-K-105, RVSVT-K-110 and ICCV181307.The diverse promising lines could be used in chickpea breeding programme and improved nutritional foodsecurity.

Pesticides have drawn attention due to their presence in various matrices and thus its after-effects in the environment and human body via various pathways. The use of agrochemicals by farmers in developing countries up-surged because of their low cost that results in increased production of crops. In the present study, a modified DLLME-SFO method was developed, optimized, and validated in soil, sugarcane, and jaggery. The developed method provides recoveries between 59.5- 109.48% and RSD less than 10% for all the analytes. The current study focuses on associated human dietary risk assessment on consumption of raw sugarcane and jaggery poses major threat to children and supports the concept that risk is age-dependent. In chronic exposure, pesticides detected were alachlor and heptachlor that have the potential of causing cancer. The risk to the soil ecology is within the acceptable range indicating the direct application of pesticides to crops rather than soil.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered to be an inflammatory disorder whereas OA is not an overtly inflammatory disorder as RA but certain inflammatory cytokines and periodic inflammation are observed to be involved in its progression. The pathophysiology of arthritis involves a cascade of processes taking place; therefore, arthritis necessitates a multidimensional approach for its management. Numerous conventional anti-arthritic drugs have been employed to relieve arthritis conditions but their efficacy and tolerability can be overshadowed by the reported deleterious effects on human health. Therefore, the pressing priority is to explore the complementary and alternative treatment options i.e., traditional medicine, medicinal plants and their phytochemicals, which exhibit significant anti-inflammatory activities with less deleterious effects on human health. The present review summarizes such potential medicinal plants and natural bio-active compounds against arthritis on the basis of their potent anti-inflammatory activities demonstrated in various in vitro, in vivo studies, other preclinical and clinical studies in order to facilitate researchers to develop phytomedicines against arthritis.

Abstract Background Anu Taila is an ancient medicated oil Ayurvedic preparation that is commonly used for nasya karma. It contains more than 25 herbs and goat milk as per the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). It strengthens the neck, shoulder, and chest muscles and improves the capacity of sense organs. It delays the aging process and reduces hair fall. Recent studies showed that it is also useful in COVID-19. In the current study, an attempt to develop quality control protocols and evaluate the standardization parameters like refractive index, iodine value, saponification value, peroxide value, acid value, rancidity, HPTLC fingerprint profile along with major bioactive compound and quantification of Berberine chloride, Negundoside, and Marmelosin by HPLC. Establishing quality protocol and standard parameters like physicochemical parameters and estimation of bioactive compounds of this preparation is significant for quality control. Results In this study, HPTLC identifies bioactive chemical compounds like Berberine chloride, Marmelosin, Negundoside, glycyrrhizin, and para hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), Lupeol, Embelin, and Solasodine, which were present in the Anu Taila formulation. HPLC was used to estimate the bioactive marker compounds Negundoside, Berberine chloride, and Marmelosin were present in the Anu Taila formulation. The quantitative evaluation of Berberine chloride (0.0013%), Marmelosin (0.0366%), Negundoside (0.0086%) is present in Anu Taila formulation. Conclusion The study reveals that sufficient quality control parameters were followed during the preparation of the formulation. Physicochemical analysis was carried out as per the guidelines of Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India. HPTLC and HPLC profiles generated in this particular study can be considered as a preliminary tool ascertaining the authenticity of Anu Taila.

Background: The Aim of the present research article is to proposing a conservative approach for the Cassia fistula by using of small branches instead of stem bark because of plant has many important chemical constituents which show different medicinal activity so consumption of plant is high. We studied here Comparative preliminary phytochemical screening test of the ethanol extract and aqueous extract of the stem bark and small branches of Cassia fistula obtained by cold maceration process. Physicochemical analysis of Cassia fistula was done to ascertain the quality of the raw material used in the study. Successive soxhlet extraction method used for the successive extraction of stem bark and small branches with different solvents for comparative chemical profile study by HPLC, LCMS, and GCMS. Molecular Docking Interaction of Abundant Medicinal Phytochemicals in the Liquid Chromatography−Mass Spectrometry (LC−MS) Analysis Data of C. fistula with the L. donovani Drug Target Proteins and Pancreatic lipase colipase target protein. Result: The pH of the small branches was found slightly higher as compared to stem bark and the percentage of other parameters like total ash content, acid insoluble ash, loss on drying at 105 °C, water soluble extractive and alcohol soluble extractive values were found fewer in the small branches as compare to stem bark of the plant. It was observed that the number of peaks in stem bark and small branches of the plant sample were almost similar and the retention time of each peak in stem bark was coincide with the retention of small branches of the sample. Therefore, similarity was observed in stem bark and small branches of the Cassia fistula plant in HPLC, LC-MS and GC-MS. The results obtained from HPLC analysis shows that stem bark contains 0.0084% and small branches having 0.0257% of rhein in Cassia fistula. Compounds 3, 9 and 12 are present in Stem bark as well as small branches of C. fistula and Compounds 22, 32 and 37 are present in small branches only. All the compounds have very good binding energy (Kcal/mol) with the respective target proteins. Conclusion: The small branches have more active chemical constituents than stem bark against particular target proteins.

This research work was carried out from July 2018 to June 2019. WQI method was utilized to examine the seasonal changes in water quality that can indicate the potential use of water in the future. Water samples were tested from three locations along the Mandakini River. Fourteen physical and chemical parameters were analyzed. All water quality parameters were inside the admissible furthest reaches of the WHO for drinking water except turbidity, especially in the monsoon season. Twelve taxa of macroinvertebrates (Philopotamus sp., Laptophlebia sp., Isoperla sp., Diploperla sp., Tabanus sp., Hydropsyche sp., Baetis sp., Glossosoma sp., Heptagenia sp., Ephemerella sp., Psephenus sp., and Protandrous sp.) were identified in the Mandakini River. The fundamental goal of this investigation was to evaluate the seasonal effects on benthic macroinvertebrate diversity from the physicochemical variables of the Mandakini River. The study also affirmed that tourist-generated waste disposal and poisonous and dangerous chemicals from farming are the key components liable for the deterioration of water quality during the monsoon season. HIGHLIGHTS Seasonal benthic macroinvertebrate diversity along with water quality was studied.; Factors influencing the freshwater diversity were also studied and represented.; CCA was also calculated for all the sampling sites by using PAST software.; Network of various streams and rivulets showing a dendritic drainage pattern.; Water quality impacted macroinvertebrate was also studied.;

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an innovative and less invasive treatment for most of the population with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Now a days TAVI has been included as class I indication in ACC guidelines for patient subset >65 years of age. Few of the patients among these have chronic kidney disease and required regular dialysis for the same. Such patient could not tolerate high volume contrast injection during Pre TAVI aortic valve assessment. We present a case of post renal transplant, CKD stage IV patient with severe calcific aortic stenosis. We have done pre TAVI aortic valve assessment via 3D TEE (Trans esophageal echocardiography) only to avoid high volume contrast injection. 3D TEE assessment for aortic annulus, aortic annulus to left main coronary ostium height, aortic annulus to right coronary ostium height, aortic valve area. All such parameters were derived by 3D TEE and procedure was successful with no procedural complications, annular prosthesis mismatch and no paravalvular leakage.