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Aim: To estimate and compare the level of serum immunoglobulin A in patients of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), leukoplakia, and control group. Introduction: OSMF is a well-recognized potentially malignant condition in the oral cavity, and a transformation rate as high as 7.6% over a period of 10 years has been reported from India. Leukoplakia has evolved as a clinico-pathologic concept over many years, with the current clinical designation being accepted worldwide. Materials and Methods: Quantia IgA is a turbidometric immunoassay for the detection of IgA in human serum and is based on the principle of agglutination reaction. The test specimen is mixed with the activation buffer (R1) and then with antihuman IgA reagent (R2) and allowed to react. For the estimation of serum IgA, 500 μl of Quantia IgA activation buffer R1 is taken in a clean test tube. Serum sample is diluted in the ratio of 1:5 with normal saline. Ten microliters of diluted serum sample are added to R1. After incubation for 10 min, 50 μl of R2 is added, which is Quantia IgA antihuman IgA reagent to the sample, and the reading is recorded at wavelength 340 nm at 37°C. The level of IgA will be estimated by a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer machine and then data analysis will be done. Results: The immunologic alterations observed by us in OSMF and leukoplakia are almost similar or nearer to the alterations observed in oral cancer, so it is reasonable to assume that OSMF and leukoplakia can be an intermediate stage in the transformation process of a normal cell to oral malignancy. Conclusion: Prevention and early detection is the best way to reduce the incidence and mortality of premalignant disorders and oral cancer. There are many ways and methods of early detection of premalignant disorders and oral cancer, and the immunological method is one of them.

The newest developments in the IoMT, wearable devices, and communications systems to offer smart healthcare services have made human life in the age of pervasive computing wiser. The healthcare sector may transform thanks to IoMT. Through software and Information Communication Technology (ICT), IoMT links wearable devices, patients, healthcare professionals, and careers. Ambient Assisted Lifestyle (AAL) allows it to incorporate new technology into day-to-day activities. Edge computation and cloud technologies are essential to achieving this goal to meet the needs of smart medical infrastructures. In this research wok, the IoMT-AAL architecture in the edge computing-assisted IoMT system based Deep Neural Networks (DNN) is presented in this study. The proposed IoMT-AAL aims to speed up timely data collecting and processing so that judgments are made utilizing the data. The IoMT-AAL model is used to identify the patient via the IoMT sensors, sending the data they have collected to edge computation. Then, many empirical analyses are conducted, and the outcomes are examined from many angles. It can be said that the IoMT-AAL effectively predicts the healthcare framework using DNN based on various parameters like specificity, precision, improvement, physical activity, tracking, and security. The simulation results demonstrated the IoMT-AALmodel's advantages over the other techniques.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that has a major effect on the quality of life for millions of people throughout the world. The pathogenesis of psoriasis has revealed intricate molecular networks and signaling pathways, opening new avenues for precision medicine. Psoriasis treatments include topical therapy, phototherapy, systemic therapies, and biologics, but achieving optimal outcomes is difficult. Despite advancements in understanding the causes of psoriasis and the development of various treatments, optimizing therapeutic outcomes remains challenging. Managing psoriasis poses challenges in terms of drug delivery and evaluation models. Novel drug delivery systems capable of navigating complex skin barriers and delivering therapeutics precisely to target cells are crucial for advancing treatment options. This article provides an inclusive overview of psoriasis, highlighting recent discoveries and potential therapeutic targets. The article emphasizes the importance of combining different modalities, such as synthetic and herbal agents, with biologics to improve efficacy. Nanocarriers show promise for targeted drug delivery in psoriasis, as they can encapsulate antipsoriatic drugs, biologics, and gene therapies, providing enhanced stability, improved tissue penetration, and precise cellular targeting. These advancements in drug delivery systems have the potential to revolutionize psoriasis treatment by maximizing efficacy while minimizing side effects. The article also discusses the commercial outcomes in psoriasis formulations, including patents related to treatment and ongoing clinical trials, which provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of psoriasis therapeutics. These insights contribute to the evolving field of psoriasis therapeutics and offer hope for improved outcomes for patients suffering from psoriasis.

Abstract Background Anophthalmos/microphthalmos spectrum is a rare congenital eye disorder and concurrence of a cystic intraorbital lesion is even rarer. Every so often it presents as a diagnostic enigma for the clinician as well as radiologist. The occurrence of anomaly is linked with early intraembryonic insult and is closely linked with neuroectodermal development of the eyeball. There is a wide range of differential diagnoses for the intraaorbital cysts associated with microphthalmos cases ranging from colobomas to teratomas. The radiological findings in the coloboma gamut are poorly understood with a paucity of the literature regarding the same. Early and correct diagnosis is imperative for the proper management of the patient. Case presentation We present the radiological findings in three patients presenting at different ages with a basic approach pattern. Conclusions Knowledge of the radiological findings in cases of intraorbital colobomatous cysts and associations along with their embryological basis would help in making the correct diagnosis ensuing timely and accurate patient management.

Abstract The present investigation was conducted to assess the nutritional diverseness and identify novel genetic resources to be utilized in chickpea breeding for macro and micro nutrients. The plants were grown in randomized block design. Nutritional and phytochemical properties of nine chickpea genotypes were estimated. The EST sequences from NCBI database were downloaded in FASTA format, clustered into contigs using CAP3, mined for novel SSRs using TROLL analysis and primer pairs were designed using Primer 3 software. Jaccard’s similarity coefficients were used to compare the nutritional and molecular indexes followed by dendrograms construction employing UPGMA approach. The genotypes PUSA-1103, K-850, PUSA-1108, PUSA-1053 and the EST-SSR markers including the 5 newly designed namely ICCeM0012, ICCeM0049, ICCeM0067, ICCeM0070, ICCeM0078, SVP55, SVP95, SVP96, SVP146, and SVP217 were found as potential donor/marker resources for the macro–micro nutrients. The genotypes differed (p

Optimum temperature is crucial for plant's survival. During high temperature stress, heat shock proteins (Hsps) are expressed many folds essentially controlled by explicit heat shock factors (Hsfs).We have narrowed key HSPs, related HSFs and miRNAs regulated after priming with drought stress and consequent heat stress in chickpea. Firstly, we identified Hsf and Hsp gene families in desi and kabuli chickpea using Genome-wide analysis. Thereafter, selected Hsfs, Hsps and related miRNAs were analyzed using qRT-PCR in contrasting chickpea varieties (PBG1 and PBG5) after drought priming and exposing at 32 °C 24 hrs, 35 °C 12 hrs, and 38 °C 6 hrs. An interaction network between Hsfs and Hsps was generated. 18 & 17 Hsfs and 42 & 34 Hsps were identified in the desi and kabuli, respectively. The gene structure and motif composition of the genes were found to be conserved in all subfamilies. A total of 32 heat shock genes were found to have undergone duplication. Most of the CaHsf and CaHsp genes were differentially expressed on exposure to a combination of drought priming and heat stress in both in-silico and qPCR analysis. Targeted miRNAs expression was coordinated with the respective genes. miR156, miR166, miR319, miR171, and miR5213 were identified to be targets of sHsps, Hsfs, and Hsps. The protein-protein interaction revealed that CaHsp18.2 and CaHsp70 might be controlled by CaHsfsA1. Drought priming strongly correlated with less membrane damage and better leaf water content. Higher harvest index and root shoot ratio significantly indicated effectiveness of priming and essential role of Hsf and Hsp and related miRNAs in heat stress tolerance.

Background: Nutritional anemia, one of the common causes of anemia, may result from the deficiency of a number of micronutrients. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of nutritional anemia and the clinico-haematological profile of anemia among the hospitalized children aged 1 to 5 years. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 250 anemic children between age one and five years attending the tertiary care hospital at Northern India. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain the data. Peripheral blood samples were used to assess the hematological parameters. Results: The prevalence of nutritional anemia among the anemic 1-5 years old children was 27.6%, in which Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) prevalence was 21.2%. Vitamin B12 deficiency was found among 8% of the anemic children and folic acid deficiency was prevalent among the 1.6% of the cases. The mean hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in among the nutritional anemia children (8.75 g/dl). Conclusion: Overall, the proportion of nutritional anemia among children aged one to five years is significant in Northern India, with IDA being the most common nutritional deficiency anemia.

Background: Solid multicystic ameloblastoma (SMA) is a locally aggressive, benign odontogenic tumor of odontogenic origin with greater rate of recurrence. Epithelial-mesenchymal interaction plays an important role in tooth morphogenesis that shows complete differentiation of epithelial and ectomesenchymal components to the level of tooth formation. Tumor stroma in ameloblastoma is normal mature collagen that prevents differentiation to the level of tooth formation. Current study evaluates the role of stromal elements in aggressive behavior of SMA using picrosirius red staining with polarizing microscopy and CD44v6 immunohistochemistry (IHC). Objectives: To compare nature of collagen using picrosirius red staining under polarized microscope and IHC expression of CD44v6 marker in SMA and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods: Thirty blocks were retrieved from departmental archives and subjected to picrosirius red staining and CD44v6 IHC staining. Slides stained with picrosirius red were observed under polarized microscope to report the birefringence pattern. IHC slides were annotated for intensity of staining of tumor cells. Results: In contrast to OSCC's 40% red, 40% yellowish-red, and 20% greenish-yellow birefringence, SMA displayed 87% red, 13% yellowish-red, and 0% greenish-yellow. Compared to OSCC, which had tumor cells stained 9% strongly, 64% moderately, 27% mildly, and 0% negatively, SMA revealed 0% strong, 10% moderate, 60% weak, and 30% negative staining. Conclusion: As opposed to OSCC, which exhibited a greater quantity of greenish-yellow birefringence of immature collagen, SMA showed predominantly red birefringence, which is suggestive of mature collagen with a lack of metastasis. Comparing SMA to OSCC, the lack of significant CD44v6 positivity suggests that there has not been perineural invasion or regional metastases in SMA.

Introduction: The pulp is the most negatively impacted tissue during decalcification since it comprises the soft tissue components. The most effective decalcifying agent would be safest for cells and tissues while yet removing all traces of calcium. It has to get the job done quickly and have good staining properties. Aim and Objective: The goal of this research was to identify the most effective decalcifying agent for diagnostic purposes via a qualitative investigation of tissue preservation and a comparison of the efficiency of several decalcifying agents on human permanent teeth, covering both hard and soft tissue components. Materials and Methods: Fifty premolars from people aged 14 to 30 who needed them pulled for orthodontics were included in the research. Participants in the research were divided into five groups of ten. Group A, Group B, Group C, Group D, and Group E make up the total of five groups. In this investigation, we compared the efficiency of five decalcifying chemicals and analyzed their staining patterns and effects on tooth tissue. Fifty premolar teeth from participants aged 14–30 years old were removed for orthodontic therapy. For the research, they were split up into five groups of ten. Group A contains 5% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), Group B contains 10% formic acid, Group C contains 5% Trichoraticectic acid, Group D contains 5% nitric acid, and Group E contains 5% formalin-nitric acid. Result: Regardless of the specifics of the chosen decalcification solution, all procedures benefit from the inclusion of external stimuli. None of the variables were used in the current investigation; it was conducted only to compare various decalcifying chemicals. Conclusion: When time is not a concern, neutral EDTA may be recommended for preservation and presentation because of its ability to maintain soft-tissue integrity and provide high-quality staining. The formalin-nitric acid solution was one agent that appeared to strike a good compromise between speed and tissue preservation.

Background: HNSCC (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma) is a serious global health problem, with estimated more than 550,000 new cases and 300,000 deaths annually. More than 90% of these malignancies are oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Materials and Methods: Patients selected were asked to fill the detailed structured case history proforma and thorough clinical examination, structured, pre-designed, pre-evaluated (UW-QOL) UW Questionnaire version 4 on quality of life (QOL) of oral squamous cell carcinoma patients containing thirteen subjective questionnaires and three global questionnaires. All the patients of OSCC after one month (1 month) of radiation and chemotherapy were assessed for quality of life by questionnaire. Result: Post-treatment QOL assessment of OSCC patients reveals a number of problems such as chewing, swallowing, saliva, lack of activity, and mood disturbances. Preoperative clinical features including tumor site, tumor stage, and extent of mouth opening have a significant impact on post-treatment problems in different ways. Conclusion: The need to balance clinician's need and use of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) data against patient's burden should be considered in the selection process.

Background: To study the genetic basis of the impact of genotypes and morpho-physio-biochemical traits under different organic and inorganic fertilizer doses on the shelf life attribute of tomatoes, field experiments were conducted in randomized block designs during the rabi seasons of 2018–2019 and 2019–2020. The experiment comprised three diverse nutrient environments [T1—organic; T2—inorganic; T3—control (without any fertilizers)] and five tomato genotypes with variable growth habits, specifically Angoorlata (Indeterminate), Avinash-3 (semi-determinate), Swaraksha (semi-determinate), Pusa Sheetal (semi-determinate), and Pusa Rohini (determinate).Results: The different tomato genotypes behaved apparently differently from each other in terms of shelf life. All the genotypes had maximum shelf life when grown in organic environments. However, the Pusa Sheetal had a maximum shelf life of 8.35 days when grown in an organic environment and showed an increase of 12% over the control. The genotype Pusa Sheetal, organic environment and biochemical trait Anthocyanin provides a promise as potential contributor to improve the keeping quality of tomatoes.Conclusion: The genotype Pusa Sheetal a novel source for shelf life, organic environment, and anthocyanin have shown promises for extended shelf life in tomatoes. Thus, the identified trait and genotype can be utilized in tomato improvement programs. Furthermore, this identified trait can also be targeted for its quantitative enhancement in order to increase tomato shelf life through a genome editing approach. A generalized genome editing mechanism is consequently suggested.

Earthworms are important soil organisms, contributing to many beneficial ecological services that can be harmed by heavy metal contamination. Because of their permeable skin and constant contact with soil through their digestive tract, they are extremely sensitive to soil contamination. Heavy metals get bioaccumulated in their bodies and cause major health problems. In this review, we describe the findings of various studies on the toxicity of heavy metals to earthworms, mechanisms of toxicity, detoxification responses and consequences on the environment. Heavy metals have deleterious impact on earthworms at all levels of organization, including inhibiting enzyme activities, causing DNA damage, reducing survival, growth and cocoon production, altering behavior and reducing total earthworm community diversity and biomass. These negative effects of heavy metals on earthworms can have disproportionate adverse consequences for community stability as well as serious ecological consequences for the entire terrestrial ecosystem. So, heavy metal pollution of soil poses a serious threat to earthworms, reducing their activity and posing a risk to the environment and human health.

Genomics and genome editing promise enormous opportunities for crop improvement and elementary research. Precise modification in the specific targeted location of a genome has profited over the unplanned insertional events which are generally accomplished employing unadventurous means of genetic modifications. The advent of new genome editing procedures viz; zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), homing endonucleases, transcription activator like effector nucleases (TALENs), Base Editors (BEs), and Primer Editors (PEs) enable molecular scientists to modulate gene expressions or create novel genes with high precision and efficiency. However, all these techniques are exorbitant and tedious since their prerequisites are difficult processes that necessitate protein engineering. Contrary to first generation genome modifying methods, CRISPR/Cas9 is simple to construct, and clones can hypothetically target several locations in the genome with different guide RNAs. Following the model of the application in crop with the help of the CRISPR/Cas9 module, various customized Cas9 cassettes have been cast off to advance mark discrimination and diminish random cuts. The present study discusses the progression in genome editing apparatuses, and their applications in chickpea crop development, scientific limitations, and future perspectives for biofortifying cytokinin dehydrogenase, nitrate reductase, superoxide dismutase to induce drought resistance, heat tolerance and higher yield in chickpea to encounter global climate change, hunger and nutritional threats.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of sonography including Doppler and sonoelastography in differentiation between metastatic and tuberculous cervical lymphadenopathy. Materials and Methods: This single-center observational study was undertaken with 86 study subjects after defined inclusion and exclusion criteria as per study needs and imaging limitations. Sonographic and sonoelastographic examinations were done by two examiners, and the diagnosis was reached in consensus. Sonographic features assessed were size, short/long axis ratio, the presence or absence of echogenic hilum, and intranodal necrosis including pattern of vascularity. With ultrasonoelastography, color-coded elastograms and strain ratio (SR) were evaluated. Then, the accuracy of individual sonographic and sonoelastographic parameters as well as combined sonographic and sonoelastographic evaluation was evaluated against HPE diagnosis. Cutoff for all the combined evaluations was determined from receiver observing curve. Results: Out of 127 nodes examined, 100 were tuberculous and 27 were metastatic on histopathology. Among all ultrasound features, intranodal necrosis showed maximum sensitivity, i.e., 39% and specificity 96%. SR had highest sensitivity (95.6%) and specificity (96.3%) among all US and elastographic parameters. Conclusion: Sonoelastographic assessment has good diagnostic accuracy for differentiation between metastatic and tuberculous cervical lymphadenopathy and adds to sonographic assessment, thereby further increasing the diagnostic confidence.

Introduction: Anorectal Malformations (ARMs) are the second most common paediatric surgical emergencies with management strategy is restoration of near normal anatomy and physiology which require accurate and proper imaging diagnosis. Aim: To evaluate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings and its comparison with Distal Colostogram (DC) against surgical findings in anorectal malformation patients. Materials and Methods: A cohort study was done at two centers Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh (JNMC, Aligarh) and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi involving 60 patients of ARMs. MRI was done in all patients and distal colostogram was done in 46 (74.4%) patients. All patients were evaluated for associated anomalies. Both the imaging modalities were compared for the type of ARM and fistula against the surgical findings and Chi-square and Fisher’s test were used to calculate statistical significance. Results: Out of total 60 patients included in this study, there were 37 (61.7%) males and 23 females (38.3%). High ARM was seen in 34 (56.7%) patients and low ARM was seen in 26 (43.3%). There was no significant difference between distal colostogram and MRI in differentiating the type of ARM (p-value 0.13). Spinal anomalies (52.5%) were the most common associated anomalies, followed by genitourinary (47.5%) and musculoskeletal (32.5%). Conclusion: From the results of present study no significant difference was found between DC and MRI findings regarding the type of ARM.

This article is concerned with an institutional initiative designed to encourage the development of an outreach culture which can support fairer, more equal, access to higher education (HE) in India. The initiative constituted the final impact phase of a 5-year Fair Chance Foundation (FCF) research project (2017-2022) which explored gendered pathways to fair access to HE in the northern Indian state of Haryana. We present the methodology used to prepare a toolkit, named an Outreach Activity Resource (OAR), which enabled staff in government colleges in Haryana to plan and conduct pilot 'taster days'. The article provides an assessment of the outcome of these events. It argues that a practitioner as researcher methodology and a collaborative 'bottom up' research approach provide the basis for the development of contextually appropriate outreach activities to support fairer, more equal, access to higher education (HE). We argue that the adoption of 'top down' initiatives, in very different economic, social and cultural contexts to the those where they were originated, may fail to address the way in which the local 'problem' presents itself and may hinder the development of a contextually informed outreach culture which will support fairer, more equal access to HE. In contrast, initiatives such as the one presented here can contribute essential locally informed expertise, built on contextually informed research, to national and international policy making in relation to widening access to HE in an era in which massification is extending across the globe.

Background: The burden of chronic kidney disease and the incidence of end-stage renal disease in India are continuously increasing. For each of these patients, adequate vascular access for dialysis is essential for survival. Access to patients' blood can come in the form of a catheter, native arteriovenous fistula (AVF), or prosthetic graft. It is apparent that the number of new “incident” patients and “prevalent” patients will continue to increase, requiring stable forms of vascular access. An alternative to autologous AVF is placement of a synthetic vascular graft prosthesis. Methods: This is a retrospective study which aims to evaluate the outcome of 10 consecutive patients with arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) made for hemodialysis in patients with exhaustive veins/failed AVFs with central venous catheters (CVCs) in situ. Results: The mean age of patients in our study was 54 years. The primary patency rate of AVGs was 50% and 30%, whereas the secondary patency rate was found to be 80% and 60% at 6 months and 1 year, respectively. Conclusion: AVGs can be used as an alternative to AVFs with acceptable results.

Introduction: Brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistula although little complex to create provides a suitable alternative to radiocephalic and brachiocephalic fistula, due to its autogenous nature and protective deep-seated anatomy of basilic vein. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome among various techniques of brachiobasilic fistula (BBF) in terms of patency and complication rates. Methods: We retrospectively identified 50 patients in which BBFs were constructed between January 2015 and January 2018. The basilic vein was transposed in 16 patients and elevated in 34 patients: 14 as a single-stage technique and 20 with a two-stage (delayed elevation) technique. Results: The mean age of patients in this study was 50.8 years, with 72% of them having diabetes mellitus. There was no significant difference in the primary and secondary patencies among various techniques at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Neither there was any significant difference found in the complication rates between different techniques used to create BBF. The overall primary patency rates are 78% and 60% and secondary patency rates are 82% and 68% at 1 and 2 years, respectively. Conclusion: BBF can be considered as a true alternative before prosthetic grafts in patients with exhaustive cephalic veins.

Pulmonary artery aneurysms is a rare entity with varied causes, its association with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) having low pressure pulmonary system is further more uncommon. Here, the authors present a case of 15-year-old male patient presenting with symptoms of cyanosis and dyspynoea for which echocardiography, cardiac catheterisation and Computed Tomography (CT) angiography was done and diagnosis of tetralogy of fallot with left pulmonary artery aneurysm was made for which patient was admitted and underwent surgical correction. Pulmonary artery aneurysm with tetralogy of fallot is an extremely rare anatomical combination requiring treatment strategy modification, hence merit proper evaluation.

Foetus-in-foetu is a rare pathology which occurs due to abnormal embryogenesis in a diamniotic monochorionic pregnancy. This unusual condition is characterised by development of foetal parts in a normally developing foetus. The authors present a case of two-day-old male neonate delivered successfully via normal vaginal delivery presented to Emergency Department with complaint of non tender abdominal distension from birth. There was no associated complaint like fever, vomiting or non passage of stools or urine. Antenatal scan showed large abdomino-pelvic mass occupying almost all the quadrants. On clinical examination, abdomen was soft and revealed a large, non tender, soft to firm large mass which required further evaluation. Bowel sounds were heard normally. Sonography and Computed Tomography (CT) was done for diagnostic evaluation which suggested possible diagnosis of Foetus-in-foetu confirmed on histopathological examination of the postoperative surgical specimen.

Background: Studies have concluded that the medical students of hostels are at high risk of anemia due to inappropriate diet and their long schedules that indirectly affect their performance. Thus, concerning for the long duration of medical studies, it has become a serious medical issue. Aims and Objective: Thus, our objective is to determine the prevalence of anemia among medical students in Nobel Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Nepal. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study which was conducted and Teaching Hospital from January 2017 to December 2017 where all the subjects were selected with convenient sampling technique. The total of 150 MBBS students (male=95, female=55), age 18-25 years were included in the study who were clinically healthy. The demographic data (name, age, sex, address) and anthropometric variables (height, weight, body mass index) were recorded and hemoglobin was estimated by Sahli’s acid hematin method. Results: Only 42.1% of total were mild anemic and 11.6 % were moderately anemic. Among female, 1.8% were severely anemic, 9.1% were moderately anemic and 41.8% were mild anemic. Compared to male, anemia in female medical students was found to be more extensive. Conclusions: It has been concluded from the above study that the mild anemia is highly prevalent among medical students regardless of gender. Though the subjects are not severely affected, it is a concerned issue since the cause might be inappropriate food habit or the food facilities available at hostels.

Background: Angle of femoral torsion has an anatomical variation based on sex, geography, ethnicity and occupation and concludes various impact factor on determining the angulation as well as the length of the bone. Aims and Objective: Thus, present study is aimed to determine the angle of femoral torsion in Nepalese population. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out at the Department of Anatomy, Nobel Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Biratnagar, Nepal. Of the total 60, unpaired and unknown gender, dry femora were collected during one year period and separated as right sided (n=30) and left sided (n=30) according to the standard anatomical landmarks. Measurement of angle was done by Kingsley Olmsted method and the length, mid-circumference by measuring tape. Results: The angle of torsion in dry femora (n=60) for right (16.73± 3.095) and left (16.67± 2.963) side were recorded. The mean shaft length, mid circumference for right sided femora were recorded as 39.367±0.9185 and 7.933 ± 0.6661cm respectively. The mean shaft length and mid circumference were 38.917± 0.8914 and 7.933 ± 0.5833cm respectively for left sided femora. Differences (ATF, p=0.932, LF, P=0.059, MCF, P=1) of variables between right and left femora were analyzed and correlation of angle of femoral torsion with shaft length and midshaft circumference (ATF vs MCF, p= 0.571 and LF, p=0.153) was done. Conclusion: Documenting the femoral angle of torsion with shaft length, midshaft circumference in normal dry femora of cadaver is of great importance for Orthopedic surgeons since it provides a knowledge for planning the hip surgeries.

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of sonography including Doppler and sonoelastography in differentiation between reactive and metastatic cervical lymphadenopathy. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken with 50 study participants after defined inclusion and exclusion criteria as per the study needs and imaging limitations. Sonographic and sonoelastographic examination was done by two examiners and diagnosis was reached in consensus. Sonographic features assessed were size, short/long axis ratio, presence or absence of echogenic hilum, intra-nodal necrosis including pattern of vascularity. With ultrasonoelastography, color-coded elastograms and strain ratio (SR) were evaluated. Then, the accuracy of individual sonographic and sonoelastographic parameters as well as combined sonographic and sonoelastographic evaluation were evaluated against histopathological examination diagnosis. Cutoff for all the combined evaluation was determined from the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: Sensitivity of individual sonographic parameters ranged from 81% to 96.3%, whereas specificity was from 50% to 96.3%. Maximum accuracy of 94.3% was obtained with intra-nodal necrosis and echogenic hilum individually. Color-coded elastograms with pattern >3 suggesting metastatic showed sensitivity of 100% but specificity of 75%. Maximum accuracy was achieved by SR >1.99 with 96.3% sensitivity and 93.02% specificity. Combined ultrasonography evaluation had sensitivity of 70.4% and specificity of 87.5%, whereas combined sonographic plus elastographic evaluation increased sensitivity and specificity to 92.6% and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: Combined sonographic and sonoelastographic assessment is better than individual assessment; hence, elastographic findings complement sonographic assessment and further increases the diagnostic confidence.

Oral inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is extremely rare and its manifestation as generalized gingival enlargement (GGE) has never been reported. We are reporting the case of 50-year-old female patient presenting with recurrent GGE for 4 years. Panoramic radiograph revealed severe bone loss in posterior sextants and root resorption in some teeth. Initial incisional biopsy was suggestive of chronic inflammatory infiltrate with fibrocollagenous tissue. Definitive treatment comprised of surgical excision of the enlarged gingiva with a tapering dose of steroid therapy. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination from a repeat biopsy of deeper tissues was suggestive IMT. No recurrence was found at 2 years follow up. Recurrent GGE with advanced bone loss and external root resorption should raise the suspicion of a locally aggressive lesion. Dentists should be aware of oral IMT and include it in differential diagnosis of gingival enlargements for comprehensive management to avoid recurrence of the lesion.

Introduction: Covid-19 pandemic is further spreading its leg in India. Indigenous Covishield vaccination drive was started to protect people from the disease. Objective: This observational cross sectional study was conducted to assess the morbidity and mortality pattern amongst Covishield vaccinated people Vs non-vaccinated patients of covid19. Methodology: This observation study was conducted in a dedicated covid-19 hospital. All RTPCR covid-19 patients were included. The data on vaccination against covid-19 amongst the patients was obtained, and analysed using statistical software. Results: The study population comprised of 155 cases of confirmed covid-19 patients of which 24 (15.48%) were fully vaccinated, however 41 (26.45%) and 90 (58.06%) were partially and non-vaccinated respectively. Fully vaccinated people were protected from development of severe form of disease (X2=9.57, d.f=2, p=0.0083). Mortality was significantly less amongst vaccinated group (X2=4.83, d.f=1, p= 0.028). Conclusion: Patients who are completely vaccinated with Covishield vaccine are protected from development of severe form of diseases and deaths and hence mass vaccination of Indian population to overcome the pandemic is required at the earliest.

Introduction: Traffic police are continually exposed to loud noise. The pure tone audiometric screening for hearing test has not been done in Biratnagar Nepal. So, we conducted a study to screen hearing ability and also to find out hearing thresholds among traffic police with normal hearing ability. Materials and methods: The study was conducted among 36 traffic police personnel. The 25dB sound was administered with audiometer (name) in different frequencies (1 kHz, 2 kHz, 3 kHz, 4 kHz and 8 kHz) for screening hearing loss in left and right ears. The threshold for hearing among normal hearing traffic personnel was compared with controls in all the frequencies. Result: Among 36 traffic police, 17(47.2%) had hearing loss. Maximum (n=8) hearing loss was seen in 4 kHz (4 - unilateral and 4 – bilateral) followed by 3 kHz (n=4, 3 unilateral and 1 bilateral) and mixed 3kHz and 4 kHz frequencies. The percentage of hearing loss in 2 kHz, 3 kHz and 4 kHz frequencies was more in left ear compared to right. The threshold for hearing loss was higher in traffic police compared to controls .In the left ear, it was only in 4kHz {(25.91+6.64 Vs 20.45±4.15,( p=.034)} whereas in right ear, the threshold was higher in 3 kHz {20.45±5.22 Vs 15.91±4.90, (p=0.04)}, 4 kHz {25.45±12.54 Vs 16.82±5.60, (p=0.05)} and 8000 kHz {18.64±17.62 Vs 6.36±3.23, (p=0.04) . Conclusion: The hearing loss was present in 47.2% of traffic policemen predominantly in 4 kHz. The threshold for hearing was also higher among traffic police compared to controls.

Introduction: The pandemic of Covid-19 was declared on 11 march 2020 by WHO. Methods: The study was carried out in a dedicated Covid 19 hospital on 1493 patients. All patients who tested positive for Covid-19 by RTPCR were included in the study and the outcome was analysed. Result: Most of the patients were symptomatic (64.97%). The asymptomatic patients recovered faster than symptomatic and the difference was statistically significant. The most common symptoms were fever (38.3%), tiredness (20.6%) and cough (17.8%). Only 0.8% patients died due to the novel corona virus. Conclusion: The mortality due to the virus in India is not alarming and we need to consider starting focusing back on other diseases as well. The mean age of the deceased was 58.42 which highlights that elderly at a greater risk to succumb to disease and hence should be preferred for as priority one for vaccination against the disease. The numbers of Covid-19 cases have reduced considerably over last few months in the country, but this does not mean that the pandemic has gone away. We need to be cautious, use this opportunity to vaccinate the maximum population to prevent second wave of the disease.

Basmati rice contains large amounts of polysaccharides and polyphenols. Due to these compounds, isolation of superior quality RNA from rice tissue is complicated. Most of the published procedures failed to yield adequate quantity of high-quality RNA from various rice tissues appropriate for gene expression studies. We conducted experiments and observed as the average ratio at A260/280 of basmati rice leave derived RNA extracted through the phenol-SDS procedure ranging from 1.64 to 1.70, which indicated that the samples contained protein contamination and were low in purity. On the other hand, in our modified protocol typical yields of RNA for the four Basmati rice genotypes ranged from 35-50 μg. The A260/280 ratio ranged from 1.95-2.11 for all the samples and indicated that the RNA is of high quality free from impurities like polysaccharides and polyphenols contaminations. Thus, the quality RNA with high yield from rice leaves or may be other plant tissues having high concentration of impurities like polyphenols and polysaccharides may be extracted and purified by this modified protocol can be used for various downstream applications including RNA-seq, RT-PCR and qPCR.

A field experiment was laid out in RBD having three replications to investigate the morphological performance, yield and shelf life of five different tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties under organic and inorganic ambient. The different tomato varieties behaved significantly different from each other for various growth parameters. The organic ambient grown tomato var. Angoorlata gave the highest plant height, number of branches, leaves and flowers; the variety Pusa Sheetal recorded highest fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit shelf life and fruit yield. The var. Pusa Sheetal also grown inorganic ambient gave highest performance for number of fruits, fruit diameter, fruit weight, shelf life at room temperature and yield production. The potential of the variety Pusa Sheetal for accumulation of higher concentration of soluble solids such as sugars, Vitamin C, polyphenols and best performance for yield contributing attributes as well as highest shelf life at refrigerated condition in organic ambience reflects that it is an eco-health friendly genotype for organic tomato and longer shelf life. This novel finding reported for the first time for the variety Pusa Sheetal opens a new avenue for its larger scientific and practical utility for breeding of new genotypes suitable for organic farming with enhanced shelf life to meet out the increasing fondness and requirement of future consumers.

Small heat shock proteins (sHSPs) are one of the five families of proteins acting as molecular chaperone. sHSPs possess a universally conserved alpha-crystallin domain, hence, also known as alpha-crystallin family. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is an etiological agent of tuberculosis, a disease claiming million of lives every year across the world. MTB has two sHSPs: sHSP16.3 (a 16.3 kDa protein) and Acr2 (a 17.8 kDa protein). Of these, sHSP16.3 has been reported to be crucial for survival of MTB during prolonged period of dormancy, in addition to indispensable role in its growth, virulence and cell wall thickening. Additionally, this mycobacterial protein is also beneficial for host as well. Due to strong immunogenic properties and consistent presence in patients sera, sHSP16.3 has largely been implicated in vaccine development and diagnosis of latent and active infections of MTB in the clinical cases of TB. Recently, our study provided the substantial evidence to exploit this mycobacterial protein as a good drug target for developing novel therapeutic intervention. In the present review, a comprehensive analysis of various attributes of sHSP16.3 has been done and major gaps in area have been highlighted for future course of action.

The use of magnification to perform various procedures in medical and dental field, particularly endodontics has long been recognized. Unfortunately, its application in periodontics is not widely popularized. The objective of this article is to emphasize the application of microsurgical principles in various periodontal surgical procedures and to reinforce the incorporation of microscope into periodontal practice. The most recent periodontal journals were reviewed and a search of databases such as PubMed or Medline and Google Scholar was conducted for relevant material from published literature up to 2017. Medical Subject Headings words looked for were “periodontal microsurgery” and “minimally invasive periodontal surgery.” The available literature, specifically to periodontal surgical procedures was analyzed and compiled. The analysis indicates that incorporation of magnification in periodontal practice is associated with improved visual acuity, ergonomic benefits, decreased patient morbidity, rapid healing, and enhanced patient acceptance.

Plantago is an important medicinal plant valued for its seeds and husk which are used in indigenous medicine, all over the world. An investigation was carried out to assess the genetic divergence among 49 accessions of Plantago, comprising four species. Highly significant differences were noted for all nine economic traits indicating the existence of considerable genetic diversity. The germplasm could be grouped into six clusters and immense diversity among the accessions was indicated by the wide range of D² values (2.487 - 7178.147). The cluster pattern was also confirmed by the canonical analysis. Panicles/plant was the highest contributor (25.21%) followed by panicle length (14.84%), whereas swelling factor was the lowest contributor (2.68%) to divergence. Five accessions were identified to be best either in panicle length, seed yield, husk yield or swelling factor. Three accessions were identified for dual preference and one for multiple preferences of economic traits and can be exploited for commercial cultivation.

Background: VEGF single nucleotide polymorphisms of rs699947, rs1570360 and rs3025039 have been associated with VEGF expression and production; however, their effects on the independent development of stroke subtype have not been studied yet. This study was designed to investigate the association of VEGF polymorphisms with stoke in large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) and small vessel occlusion (SVO) in Korean population. Method: Real-time PCR combined with melting curve analysis in LightCyler was used for the genotyping of VEGF SNPs. Results: Significant differences between controls and stroke subtypes patients (LAA and SVO) were observed in the allele and genotypes frequencies of rs699947 and rs3025039 (p

Fertilizers and herbicides are two major components in the agriculture system for achieving crop productivity. Massive use of orthophosphate fertilizers and herbicides poses threats to phosphate reserves and aids the evolution of herbicide tolerant weed biotypes. Phosphite (Phi), a phosphate analog, has been proposed as more beneficial than traditionally used phosphate fertilizers and herbicides in the agriculture. We developed phoA overexpressing transgenic rice that minimizes the phosphate loss and contributes to weed management in the agriculture. The phoA rice lines showed improved root, shoot length and total biomass production under phosphite conditions. Additionally, the complete phenotype and productivity of phoA lines under the phosphite treatment attained was similar to that of plants under phosphate sufficient condition. The Phi metabolizing properties of the phoA overexpressed lines improved under the Phi application and phi treatment enabled controlling of weeds without compromising the yield of transgenic rice plants. Our results indicated that phoA alone or in combination with other Phi metabolizing gene(s) can possibly be used as an effective ameliorating system for improving crop plants for phi-based fertilization and weed management strategy in the agriculture.

BackgroundAnemia during pregnancy is a major public health problem globally with multiple causes including inadequate dietary intakes. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of nutrition education on nutritional knowledge, hemoglobin level and dietary intake of anemic pregnant women.Materials and methodsA quasi-experimental study was conducted among 115 mild to moderately anemic pregnant women attending ante natal clinics. Pregnant women were consecutively enrolled and assigned to receive nutrition education and diet plan in intervention group (n = 58) and general education only in control group (n = 57). The nutrition education was given to pregnant women on individual basis at the time of enrollment and follow-ups were done through biweekly phone calls and every 4 weeks during ANC visits. Baseline data were collected using semi-structure questionnaire for interview and hemoglobin level was also measured. Data were collected after 10 weeks of nutrition education intervention. Independent sample t-test was used to compare differences between the two groups.ResultsOut of 115 pregnant women enrolled, 107 completed the study (Intervention: 53; Control: 54). At the end of the nutrition education intervention and iron rich food based diet plan, the change in hemoglobin level was significantly high in the intervention over control group [0.56±0.40gm/dl vs. 0.16±0.82gm/dl, p = 0.002]. The change in the maternal nutritional knowledge score on anemia and iron rich foods was significantly high in the intervention over control group [8.26±4.57 vs. 1.05±6.59, pConclusionProvision of nutrition education and iron rich food based diet plan was significantly associated with improved hemoglobin levels, improved dietary intake and nutritional knowledge on anemia and iron rich foods.

This article assesses few electrocardiographic parameters in young adults (students) caused by smoking. The electrocardiogram of young smokers (with a history of at least six months of smoking) and young non-smokers were recorded using 12 leads, three channel ECG machine and the data thus obtained were analyzed statistically. It was found that there is extremely statistically significant difference in the timings of P-R interval and T-P interval when young smokers were compared with young non-smokers. [Med-Science 2016; 5(4.000): 945-7]

Introduction: Despite a safe and effective vaccine being available for more than two decades, in India, so far there has been no clear- cut policy regarding rubella immunization of children either at 15 months or young girls at child bearing age. Studies from India and abroad have found that 10-20% women in childbearing age are susceptible to rubella. Between 6-12% of babies born with congeni- tal malformations or infections have serological evidence of rubel- la. Methodology: Study was conducted in degree colleges (a health science college/medical college and a general stream). WHO ru- bella questionnaire was suitably modified. The questionnaire was then validated with pilot study in a group of subjects. A venous blood sample was drawn from each study subject and sent on the same day for ELISA for qualitative determination of IgG- class an- tibodies against rubella. Result: Presence of over 16% susceptible college students to rubel- la suggests the possibility of transmission among non-immune in- dividuals. Seropositivity to rubella antibodies was found to be higher amounts males, participants from urban area and partici- pants belonging to high socio-economic status as compared to their counterparts. Conclusion: There is a need for reviewing the necessity of rubella vaccination in National Immunisation Schedule.

Glutamine synthetase (GS) is a key enzyme involved in the nitrogen metabolism of higher plants. Abiotic stresses have adverse effects on crop production and pose a serious threat to global food security. GS activity and expression is known to be significantly modulated by various abiotic stresses. However, very few transgenic overexpression studies of GS have studied its impact on abiotic stress tolerance. GS is also the target enzyme of the broad spectrum herbicide Glufosinate (active ingredient: phosphinothricin). In this study, we investigated the effect of concurrent overexpression of the rice cytosolic GS1 (OsGS1;1) and chloroplastic GS2 (OsGS2) genes in transgenic rice on its tolerance to abiotic stresses and the herbicide Glufosinate. Our results demonstrate that the co-overexpression of OsGS1;1 and OsGS2 isoforms in transgenic rice plants enhanced its tolerance to osmotic and salinity stress at the seedling stage. The transgenic lines maintained significantly higher fresh weight, chlorophyll content, and relative water content than wild type (wt) and null segregant (ns) controls, under both osmotic and salinity stress. The OsGS1;1/OsGS2 co-overexpressing transgenic plants accumulated higher levels of proline but showed lower electrolyte leakage and had lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content under the stress treatments. The transgenic lines showed considerably enhanced photosynthetic and agronomic performance under drought and salinity stress imposed during the reproductive stage, as compared to wt and ns control plants. The grain filling rates of the transgenic rice plants under reproductive stage drought stress (64.6 ± 4.7%) and salinity stress (58.2 ± 4.5%) were significantly higher than control plants, thereby leading to higher yields under these abiotic stress conditions. Preliminary analysis also revealed that the transgenic lines had improved tolerance to methyl viologen induced photo-oxidative stress. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the concurrent overexpression of OsGS1;1 and OsGS2 isoforms in rice enhanced physiological tolerance and agronomic performance under adverse abiotic stress conditions, apparently acting through multiple mechanistic routes. The transgenic rice plants also showed limited tolerance to the herbicide Glufosinate. The advantages and limitations of glutamine synthetase overexpression in crop plants, along with future strategies to overcome these limitations for utilization in crop improvement have also been discussed briefly.

Weeds and their devastating effects have been a great threat since the start of agriculture. They compete with crop plants in the field and negatively influence the crop yield quality and quantity along with survival of the plants. Glyphosate is an important broad-spectrum systemic herbicide which has been widely used to combat various weed problems since last two decades. It is very effective even at low concentrations, and possesses low environmental toxicity and soil residual activity. However, the residual concentration of glyphosate inside the plant has been of major concern as it severely affects the important metabolic pathways, and results in poor plant growth and grain yield. In this study, we compared the glyphosate tolerance efficiency of two different transgenic groups over expressing proline/173/serine (P173S) rice EPSPS glyphosate tolerant mutant gene (OsmEPSPS) alone and in combination with the glyphosate detoxifying encoding igrA gene, recently characterized from Pseudomonas. The molecular analysis of all transgenic plant lines showed a stable integration of transgenes and their active expression in foliar tissues. The physiological analysis of glyphosate treated transgenic lines at seed germination and vegetative stages showed a significant difference in glyphosate tolerance between the two transgenic groups. The transgenic plants with OsmEPSPS and igrA genes, representing dual glyphosate tolerance mechanisms, showed an improved root-shoot growth, physiology, overall phenotype and higher level of glyphosate tolerance compared to the OsmEPSPS transgenic plants. This study highlights the advantage of igrA led detoxification mechanism as a crucial component of glyphosate tolerance strategy in combination with glyphosate tolerant OsmEPSPS gene, which offered a better option to tackle in vivo glyphosate accumulation and imparted more robust glyphosate tolerance in rice transgenic plants.

Background: Visual Evoked Potential is the assessment of the visual pathway and the visual cortex. The present study was descriptive analysis of normal VEP between the age of 6 months to 4 years of age and the determination of the neuronal development among healthy children of above age group. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in neurological lab of BPKIHS on healthy children (n=36) of well-baby clinic between the age of 0.5 to ≤4 years (yr). Subjects were divided into subgroup 1(0.5 to ≤2 yr), subgroup 2(2 to ≤3 yr) and subgroup 3(3 to ≤4 yr). Visual stimulator provided with flash light emitting diode (LED) goggle was used to stimulate the retina and VEP recording was done. Flash VEP parameters: latencies (N90, P120) and amplitude (N90-P120) were recorded. Post hoc (Bonferroni) analysis was done for comparing VEP variables. Pearson correlation and scatter plot with trend line analysis were done for VEP with respect to age Results: VEP latencies of children, age-group 3 to Μ4 yr showed significantly less N90 latency on right eye stimulation comparing age-group 0.5 to Μ2 yr (103.75±22.54 vs. 79.09±17.77ms, p=0.012). P120 latency was significantly less on right eye stimulation (148.5±15.38 vs. 116.67±13.65ms p=0.001) and on left eye stimulation (145.91±18.11 vs. 116.67±13.65 ms, p=0.001) in age-group 3 to Μ4 yr children as compared to age-group 0.5 to Μ2 yr. Conclusion: Significant decrement of VEP latencies as age advances which explains the maturation of central nervous system and functionally approaching to adult value at around 3 to 4 yr.

Background: The efficacy of fluoridated dentifrices in caries prevention has been well documented and research into various formulations continues for a more effective dentifrice. This study evaluated the anti-caries and anti-plaque efficacy of a dentifrice containing sodium monofluorophosphate (1000 ppm) and calcium glycerophosphate, and compared it with a non-fluoridated dentifrice. Materials and Methods: A total of 595 school children (12-15 years) were divided into test (302 children) and control (293 children) groups. The test group used the dentifrice containing sodium monofluorophosphate (1000 ppm) and calcium glycerophosphate, whereas the control group was given a placebo dentifrice. Oral examination for dental caries and plaque assessment was carried out at the start of the study and the children were followed up semiannually up to 18 months. Data were analyzed using repeated-measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by one-way ANOVA. Results: The values for decayed missing filled teeth (DMFT) increased from baseline to 18 month examination from 4.43±2.03 and 4.67±2.25 (P=0.175) to 5.84±2.29 and 5.13±2.30 (P=0.001) for control and test groups, respectively. Similarly, the increase in decayed missing filled surface (DMFS) values were from 6.42±4.10 and 7.06±4.77 (P=0.082) to 8.64±4.51 and 7.92±5.07 (P=0.095) for test and control groups, respectively. The mean DMFT and DMFS values increased for both the groups; however, the increase was less in test group as compared to control group. The baseline plaque score reduced from 2.94±0.72 and 2.91±0.72 (P=0.679), respectively, for control and test groups to 1.33±0.46 and 0.91±0.38 (P

Compound odontoma is stated to be a hamartomatous lesion rather than a true odontogenic tumour. It has an unknown etiology and often suspected when there are retained deciduous teeth in children. Early detection and surgical enucleation of the tumour is recommended to prevent impaction of unerupted teeth. In this index case, multiple denticles or rudimentary teeth, numbering 37 were enucleated from the maxillary anterior region of a 17-year old male, which makes this case unusual. Evidence of concrescence, fusion and dilaceration were observed in the denticles enucleated, the size of which varied from 4 mm to 12.5 mm. Keywords: Odontoma, Compound odontoma, Odontogenic tumours, Denticles

The theory of generalized thermoelasticity with fractional order strain is employed to study the problem of one-dimensional disturbances in a viscoelastic solid in the presence of a moving internal heat source and subjected to a mechanical load. The problem is in the context of Green-Naghdi theory of thermoelasticity with energy dissipation. Laplace transform and state space techniques are used to obtain the general solution for a set of boundary conditions. To tackle the expression of heat source, Fourier transform is also employed. The expressions for different field parameters such as displacement, stress, thermodynamical temperature, and conductive temperature in the physical domain are derived by the application of numerical inversion technique. The effects of fractional order strain, two-temperature parameter, viscosity, and velocity of internal heat source on the field variables are depicted graphically for copper material. Some special cases of interest have also been presented.