Search

Abstract Background Indigenous buffaloes, as the important livestock species contributing to economy of the country, are the lifeline of livelihood in Nepal. They are distributed across diverse geographical regions of the country and have adapted to various feeding, breeding, and management conditions. The larger group of these native buffalo breeds are present in narrow and stiff hilly terrains. Their dispersal indicates a possible environmental adaptation mechanism, which is crucial for the conservation of these breeds. Results We utilized whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to investigate the genetic diversity, population structure, and selection signatures of Nepalese indigenous buffaloes. We compared 66 whole-genome sequences with 118 publicly available sequences from six river and five swamp buffalo breeds. Genomic diversity parameters indicated genetic variability level in the Nepalese buffaloes comparable to those of Indian breeds, and population genetic structure revealed distinct geography-mediated genetic differentiation among these breeds. We used locus-specific branch length analysis (LSBL) for genome-wide scan, which revealed a list of potentially selected genes in Lime and Parkote breeds that inhabit the hilly region. A gene ontology (GO) analysis discovered that many GO terms were associated with cardiac function regulation. Furthermore, complementary analyses of local selection signatures, tissue expression profiles, and haplotype differences identified candidate genes, including KCNE1, CSF1R, and PDGFRB, related to the regulation of cardiac and pulmonary functions. Conclusions This study is a comprehensive WGS-based genetic analysis of the native Nepalese buffalo breeds. Our study suggested that the Nepalese “hilly” buffaloes, especially the Lime and Parkote breeds, have undergone some characteristic genetic changes and evolved increased cardiac and pulmonary function for their adaptation to the steep hilly terrains of the country.

Abstract Background The prevalence of xylazine, a non-opioid tranquilizer not for human consumption, in illicitly manufactured fentanyl is increasing in the United States. However, little is known about xylazine awareness and attitudes among people who use drugs. Methods A cross-sectional survey of people who use drugs in Ohio was conducted from November 2023 – May 2024 to identify xylazine awareness and attitudes in rural and urban counties across the state. Study participants were recruited from naloxone distribution sites, including health departments, syringe service programs, and community-based organizations. Results Among 630 people who use drugs in Ohio, more than one-half (53.5%) were unaware of xylazine being in “street drugs,” regardless of urbanicity. Among individuals who were aware of xylazine, most (73.0%) indicated they did not want to use the drug and try to avoid it. In addition, 75.8% of this group felt it was “very” or “extremely” important to know if xylazine was in their drugs. Discussion This research found that many people who use drugs in Ohio are unaware of xylazine and its risks. An important finding of this study is that most individuals who had heard of xylazine did not want to use it and were concerned about knowing whether xylazine was in their drugs.

Abstract The layered van der Waals material ZrTe5 is known as a candidate topological insulator (TI), however its topological phase and the relation with other properties such as an apparent Dirac semimetallic state is still a subject of debate. We employ a semiclassical multicarrier transport (MCT) model to analyze the magnetotransport of ZrTe5 nanodevices at hydrostatic pressures up to 2 GPa. The temperature dependence of the MCT results between 10 and 300 K is assessed in the context of thermal activation, and we obtain the positions of conduction and valence band edges in the vicinity of the chemical potential. We find evidence of the closing and re-opening of the band gap with increasing pressure, which is consistent with a phase transition from weak to strong TI. This matches expectations from ab initio band structure calculations, as well as previous observations that CVT-grown ZrTe5 is a weak TI in ambient conditions.

Nail-patella syndrome (NPS) is a rare autosomal dominant pleiotropic disorder characterized by dysplasia of the nails, patellar aplasia or hypoplasia, iliac horns and dysplasia of the elbows. We present a case of a 56-year-old female presenting with bilateral knee pain, where initial radiographic findings of hypoplastic patellae prompted further investigation, revealing characteristic skeletal anomalies consistent with NPS. This case underscores the importance of recognizing radiological clues and conducting thorough clinical evaluation to diagnose rare genetic conditions such as NPS.

Background Encapsulated pancreatic fluid collection (PFC) is a requisite for endoscopic drainage procedures. The 4-week threshold for defining walled-off necrosis does not capture the dynamic process of encapsulation. We aim to investigate the changes in the wall characteristics of PFC in acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP) by comparing baseline contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) with follow-up CT scans.

Objective Accurate preoperative characterization of adnexal masses is essential for optimal patient management. Two-dimensional ultrasonography (USG) based “International Ovarian Tumuor Analysis Simple Rules (IOTA-SR)” are used primarily in clinical practice. Three-dimensional (3D) USG is an emerging modality. The authors conducted this study to compare the performance of 3D USG with IOTA-SR for preoperative differentiation of benign and malignant adnexal masses.

Abstract Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and treatment-resistant subtype of breast cancer, lacking the expression of estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. Conventional chemotherapy remains the primary treatment option, but its efficacy is often compromised by the development of drug resistance. Nanoquercetin has garnered the attention of researchers due to its potential in combating cancer. This antioxidant exhibits significant efficacy against various types of cancer, including blood, breast, pancreatic, prostate, colon, and oral cancers. Functioning as a potential anti-cancer agent, nanoquercetin impedes the development and proliferation of cancer cells, induces apoptosis and autophagy, and prevents cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Numerous processes, such as the inhibition of pathways linked to angiogenesis, inflammation, and cell survival, are responsible for these anticancer actions. Moreover, it shields DNA from degradation caused by radiation and other carcinogens. The cost-effectiveness of current cancer treatments remains a significant challenge in healthcare, imposing a substantial economic burden on societies worldwide. Preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials indicate that nanoquercetin-based therapies could offer a significant advancement in the management of TNBC, providing a foundation for future research and clinical application in overcoming drug resistance and improving patient outcomes. This article examines the latest data on nanoquercetin’s potent anti-cancer properties and interprets the accumulated research findings within the framework of preventive, predictive, and personalized (3P) medicine. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Acinetobacter baumannii, an opportunistic pathogen has shown an upsurge in its multi-drug resistant isolates. OmpA of A. baumannii induces incomplete autophagy and apoptosis in host cells. Various therapeutic alternatives are under investigation against A. baumannii. Here, the major emphasis has been laid on comparing the efficacy of AgNP with different capping agents. OmpA targeted lead, Ivermectin capped AgNP (IVM-AgNP) has been compared with the antibacterial polyvinylpyrrolidone capped AgNP (PVP-AgNP) for their role in the modulations of host autophagy. Upregulation of p62 and LC3B confirmed by real-time PCR analysis indicated an increased autophagic flux upon the treatment with AgNPs. The elongation and closure of autophagic vacuoles was also supported by upregulated Atg genes (Atg4, Atg3, Atg5) in A. baumannii infected cells after treatment with AgNP. Autophagic flux increased on treatment with PVP-AgNP as suggested by the rise in mcherryLC3B fluorescence in A549 cells treated with PVP-AgNP as compared to the GFP-LC3B of IVM-AgNP. This suggests that PVP-AgNP treatment more effectively promotes the elongation and maturation stages of autophagy by increasing autophagic flux. These results indicate that capped AgNPs have the efficiency to revert the incomplete autophagy induced by A. baumannii back to normal autophagic levels.

Introduction: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age, characterised by chronic anovulation, high androgen levels, Insulin Resistance (IR), and low-grade inflammation. Women with PCOS face increased risks of cardiac and metabolic issues, along with observed sympathetic overactivity. Aim: To assess the status of autonomic responses in women with and without PCOS through Autonomic Function Tests (AFT). Materials and Methods: The present study was designed as a case-control study, volunteers were recruited from the infertility centre of a tertiary care hospital and studied in the Department of Physiology. The study included 80 infertile women aged between 18 and 40 years. The study participants were divided into two groups: Group P included 40 volunteers with PCOS, while Group N included 40 healthy volunteers without PCOS and without any co-morbid conditions. Autonomic functions, which determine the sympathovagal balance, were evaluated. The data were analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: The cold pressor test failed to raise Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) in Group P (124.45±8.55 mmHg and 83.75±8.27 mmHg, respectively) as effectively as in Group N (131.40±4.69 mmHg and 89.80±6.79 mmHg, respectively), indicating baroreceptor reflex insensitivity. Similarly, during the hand grip test, the rise in SBP and DBP was significantly lower (p-value

The Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome is a rare congenital disorder with uterus didelphys, unilateral obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal agenesis, more common on right side. HWW syndrome usually presents at puberty with symptoms like pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea and palpable mass due to the associated hematocolpos or hematometra. Delayed presentation in adulthood as infertility can occur in case of incomplete vaginal septum. Short term complications like pyohematocolpos, pyosalpinx, or pelviperitonitis, and long-term complications, such as endometriosis, increased risk of abortion and infertility can occur. Ultrasound is the initial investigation which demonstrates uterine anomaly, renal agenesis and hematocolpos.Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the imaging modality of choice which helps in confirmation of diagnosis, delineation of vaginal septum, communication between 2 cavities and associated pathologies like adenomyosis better.Vaginal septum resection is the treatment of choice for obstructed hemivagina with hematocolpos.We present you a case of 43 years female with cyclical dysmenorrhea starting few years after menarche with uterine didelphys, left sided vaginal septum with hematocolpos and left renal agenesis. Along with this, diffuse bilateral adenomyosis was present which is uncommonly associated with this anomaly as obstruction is at the level of vagina. Patient was diagnosed late due to misdiagnosis and later treated with septal resection for hematocolpos and with hormonal medications for adenomyosis.

Corpus callosal agenesis (CCA) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the partial or complete absence of the corpus callosum, a structure crucial for interhemispheric communication. CCA can occur in isolation or be associated with other anomalies such as heterotopia, holoprosencephaly, cerebellar hypoplasia, coloboma, and hydrocephalus. The prevalence of CCA ranges from 0.020% to 0.025%, though some reports suggest higher rates. This case report describes a 1-year-old male with developmental delays and no significant antenatal or family history. MRI revealed a complete absence of the corpus callosum, asymmetrically dilated lateral ventricles, subependymal gray matter nodules suggestive of gray matter heterotopia, and bilateral posterior globe defects with vitreous herniation, indicating severe ocular anomalies. The child received supportive care including physical therapy and special education services, with regular follow-ups for developmental and ophthalmologic evaluation. This case report details the rare occurrence of CCA, accompanied by gray matter heterotopia and bilateral posterior eye coloboma in a pediatric patient. The combination of these congenital anomalies presents unique diagnostic and management challenges requiring multidisciplinary care. We discuss the clinical presentation, radiological findings, and implications for supportive care and improving the prognosis.

Hydronephrosis, characterized by the dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces, often results from obstructive uropathy, commonly due to ureterolithiasis. However, rare congenital anomalies, such as a retrocaval ureter (RCU)-where the ureter passes behind the inferior vena cava- can also cause hydronephrosis. This case report describes an 11-year-old male presenting with right-sided flank pain and hematuria. Initial ultrasonography and noncontrast CT revealed right hydronephrosis without ureteral stones. Subsequently, contrast-enhanced CT urography found an abnormality in the course of the right ureter behind the inferior vena cava. He was diagnosed with right retrocaval ureter with hydronephrosis, and managed by surgical resection of the retrocaval segment and uretero-ureteral anastomosis. The postoperative course was uneventful. RCU usually presents in the third or fourth decade of life, however, it should be in the differential diagnosis of hydronephrosis in the pediatric population. The diagnosis of RCU is often delayed and missed till advanced imaging like CT urography is sought for unexplained hydronephrosis. If left untreated, it may lead to chronic renal failure. Therefore, emphasis should be placed on timely diagnosis and management of retrocaval ureter.

Abstract Two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors and van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures with graphene have generated enormous interest for future electronic, optoelectronic, and energy-harvesting applications. The electronic transport properties and correlations of such hybrid devices strongly depend on the quality of the materials via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process, their interfaces and contact properties. However, detailed electronic transport and correlation properties of the 2D semiconductor field-effect transistor (FET) with vdW graphene contacts for understanding mobility limiting factors and metal-insulator transition properties are not explored. Here, we investigate electronic transport in scalable all-2D CVD-grown molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) FET with graphene contacts. The Fermi level of graphene can be readily tuned by a gate voltage to enable a nearly perfect band alignment and, hence, a reduced and tunable Schottky barrier at the contact with good field-effect channel mobility. Detailed temperature-dependent transport measurements show dominant phonon/impurity scattering as a mobility limiting mechanisms and a gate-and bias-induced metal-insulator transition in different temperature ranges, which is explained in light of the variable-range hopping transport. These studies in such scalable all-2D semiconductor heterostructure FETs will be useful for future electronic and optoelectronic devices for a broad range of applications.

Abstract Wheat is an important source of minerals for human nutrition and increasing grain mineral content can contribute to reducing mineral deficiencies. Here, we identify QTLs for mineral micronutrients in grain of wheat by determining the contents of six minerals in a total of eleven sample sets of three biparental populations from crosses between A.E. Watkins landraces and cv. Paragon. Twenty-three of the QTLs are mapped in two or more sample sets, with LOD scores above five in at least one set with the increasing alleles for sixteen of the QTLs being present in the landraces and seven in Paragon. Of these QTLs, the number for each mineral varies between three and five and they are located on 14 of the 21 chromosomes, with clusters on chromosomes 5A (four), 6A (three), and 7A (three). The gene content within 5 megabases of DNA on either side of the marker for the QTL with the highest LOD score is determined and the gene responsible for the strongest QTL (chromosome 5A for Ca) identified as an ATPase transporter gene (TraesCS5A02G543300) using mutagenesis. The identification of these QTLs, together with associated SNP markers and candidate genes, will facilitate the improvement of grain nutritional quality.

Objective: We studied the temporal course of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) dysfunction in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: Three hundred and two patients (median age 54 years (interquartile range (IQR) 42–64), 76% males) were recruited. The HPA axis was evaluated by morning cortisol and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) at admission (n = 232). Adrenal insufficiency (AI) during acute illness was defined using a morning cortisol

Background and aims – Bulbophyllum, the largest genus in Orchidaceae, exhibits a diverse morphology in both reproductive and vegetative characters. While trait diversity and evolution has been extensively studied in Malagasy species and within the Cirrhopetalum alliance clade, the evolution of reproductive and vegetative characters at the whole level of the Asian clade remains largely unexplored. Material and methods – We reconstructed the phylogeny of approximately 11% of all Asian Bulbophyllum species using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood estimation based on nuclear (ITS) and chloroplast (matK, psbA-trnH) DNA sequence data. This phylogenetic framework allowed us to examine the evolution of two vegetative and four floral characters through ancestral state reconstruction. Key results and conclusion – The ancestral character states of the Asian clade of Bulbophyllum include a single leaf, distinct pseudobulbs, multiple-flowered inflorescences, and lateral and dorsal sepals similar in length. One-leaved pseudobulbs evolved into two-leaved pseudobulbs multiple times. Distinct pseudobulbs gave rise to indistinct pseudobulbs twice. Multiple-flowered inflorescences shifted to solitary flowers and 2–3-flowered inflorescences multiple times, with some instances of evolutionary reversal. Lateral sepal elongation also presents a convergent evolutionary scenario.

Background: Gestational age (GA) may be assessed at any time during pregnancy, and several modes of assessment exist, each requiring better diagnostic techniques that may result in more precise estimates of GA, which could lead to quicker medical management of a pregnant patient. The largest diameter across both hemispheres, measured from outer to outer margin, is the transverse cerebellar diameter (TCD). Aims and Objectives: We aimed to predict the correlation between TCD measured by cranial ultrasound within 48 h of birth and GA as estimated by the last menstrual period. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Dr. S. N. Medical College, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee. It was a cross-sectional observational study and the duration of the study was 6 months. We split the population into three groups based on GA: (a)

Background: As hyperbilirubinemia is one of the key contributors to brain damage and is crucial to identify those instances that are at risk as it is more prevalent and severe among the preterms. Many studies are available in the literature for terms babies but there is paucity of data for pre terms. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess serum bilirubin at 24 h of live birth as a indicator of significant hyperbilirubinemia in preterm neonates. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective observational study conducted in the department of pediatrics of tertiary care center, Jodhpur on 150 preterms born within 33–36 weeks 6 days after considering the exclusion criteria in the study. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to identify significant hyperbilirubinemia within 1 week of life, along with it the cutoff value of total serum bilirubin (TSB) at 24 h of life was calculated. Results: A total of 150 enrolled preterm newborns were followed up. TSB at 24 h of life was proved to be significant using the ROC curve, where area under the curve is 0.96 which was statistically significant. Among 150 preterms, 70 newborns with TSB >4.2 mg/dL developed jaundice, and 65 babies (98.48%) required phototherapy. Hence, preterms with TSB >4.2 mg/dL have a significant risk of developing hyperbilirubinemia. (Sensitivity: 98.48%, specificity: 94.05%, negative predictive value: 98.75%, and positive predictive value: 92.86%). Conclusion: TSB for preterms at 24 h of life can support to predict the significant hyperbilirubinemia successfully. Preterms with cutoff value of serum bilirubin level >4.2 mg/dL are observed to be more prone to develop significant hyperbilirubinemia requiring appropriate intervention at the earliest.

Mid gut volvulus is a rare clinical presentation in adults though it frequently occurs in infants and children. We report a case of 30 years male (post renal transplant patient) who presented with symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting for 3 days. After demonstration of twisting of bowel loops around mesenteric vessels on Ultrasonography (USG). Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) abdomen was done which showed small bowel malrotation, inverted relation of Superior mesenteric artery-Superior mesenteric vein and whirl pool sign of midgut volvulus. However, no significant bowel obstruction was noted. Patient underwent explorative laparotomy with ladd's procedure. Post-operatively, it was uneventful. Patient became symptoms free and was discharged after 5 days of surgery. Intestinal malrotation is a congenital abnormality that arises from disrupting the 270◦ counterclockwise midgut rotation during the embryonic period. In our case malrotation was predisposing factor for volvulus. CECT abdomen is the imaging procedure of choice in adults. Ladd's procedure is the treatment of choice in symptomatic patients though it remains controversial in asymptomatic patients. Though midgut volvulus is rare in adults, it should be kept as differential in adults with symptoms of intestinal obstruction and workup should be done accordingly.

Introduction: Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn (HDFN) is widely known to be caused by the presence of irregular Red Blood Cell (RBC) antibodies in pregnant females. To prevent HDFN, it is crucial to identify these antibodies in pregnant women. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of irregular red cell antibodies in pregnant women in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Transfusion Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo New Delhi, from November 2009 to December 2017. A total of 8,217 prenatal females were examined for irregular red cell antibodies. Antibody screening and blood grouping were performed. The Capture-R ready screen was used to confirm screen-positive tests. Adsorption, elution, and other advanced techniques were utilised as needed. Data was collected from patient records and entered into a Microsoft excel spreadsheet. The statistical analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 14.0 (USA). Statistical tests, including the Chi-squared and Fisher’s exact test, were performed, with a p-value less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the 8,217 prenatal females examined, 105 (1.27%) had positive screening results with the four cell panel. Red cell alloimmunisation was observed in groups that were RhD negative (n=93/105; 88.57%) and positive (n=12/105; 11.42%). The most prevalent alloantibody among RhD negative individuals was alloantibody anti-D (n= 83/93; 89.24%), followed by alloantibody anti C+ anti D (n=13/93; 13.97%). Anti-D was the most prevalent alloantibody overall (n=83/105; 79.04%). Conclusion: Alloimmunisation rates were notably high among women lacking the Rh D antigen. Individuals with a history of adverse obstetric outcomes showed a statistically significant association with alloimmunisation. Therefore, it is recommended to screen such individuals for alloantibodies to enable early detection and improve the management of HDFN.

The paper explores the potential of CRM as a strategic element (along with performance, customer and bank perspectives, and demographic changes) for employee retention (using the Indian banking system as an example). The banking industry was chosen for this study because it is a service sector where transactions involving sensitive products (financial instruments) attract maximum attention from both employees and customers in the long run. To achieve this goal, the authors identified the main factors of customer relationship management that make it effective. The study investigated the relationship between CRM practices, the efficiency of banking operations, and the retention of bank employees. The analysis showed that bank employees have a much greater potential to influence the effectiveness of its activities than clients. Therefore, banks’ management should pay more attention to the recruitment of personnel, not only to the CRM system. The article specifically investigated the rationality of the relationship between CRM, bank branch efficiency, employee retention, and demographic variables. This allowed for several options for banks’ strategies in forming a stable staff of employees to be proposed. An important result of the study was the justification of the modification and addition of the ISM (Interpretive Structural Modelling) mechanism, which received a new name - RISM (Rational Interpretive Structural Modelling). Without violating the basic rules of ISM, the new mechanism allows to achieve better results, as it enables the development of a strategy for independent variables with a more accurate prediction of results.

Abstract The present study investigated the relationship between MSH3 and MSH6 genes in lung cancer patients. Genotyping of lung cancer patients and healthy controls was performed. Odds ratio values were calculated and survival analysis performed. Patients with mutant genotype (TT) for MSH6 polymorphism have 1.5-fold risk for the development of lung cancer (p = 0.03). For non-smokers, the mutant-type genotype had a threefold increased risk of lung cancer (p = 0.01). Patients administered with docetaxel and carbo/cisplatin and carrying GT genotype for MSH6 polymorphism, patients reported a decrease in median survival time (4.9 vs 9.13 months). MSH3 and MSH6 polymorphisms are involved in modulating the risk towards lung cancer. MSH6 polymorphism is associated with high mortality rate for patients undergoing cisplatin and docetaxel chemotherapy.

Abstract Many critical biological processes, like wound healing, require densely packed cell monolayers/tissues to transition from a jammed solid-like to a fluid-like state. Although numerical studies anticipate changes in the cell shape alone can lead to unjamming, experimental support for this prediction is not definitive because, in living systems, fluidization due to density changes cannot be ruled out. Additionally, a cell’s ability to modulate its motility only compounds difficulties since even in assemblies of rigid active particles, changing the nature of self-propulsion has non-trivial effects on the dynamics. Here, we design and assemble a monolayer of synthetic cell-mimics and examine their collective behaviour. By systematically increasing the persistence time of self-propulsion, we discovered a cell shape-driven, density-independent, re-entrant jamming transition. Notably, we observed cell shape and shape variability were mutually constrained in the confluent limit and followed the same universal scaling as that observed in confluent epithelia. Dynamical heterogeneities, however, did not conform to this scaling, with the fast cells showing suppressed shape variability, which our simulations revealed is due to a transient confinement effect of these cells by their slower neighbors. Our experiments unequivocally establish a morphodynamic link, demonstrating that geometric constraints alone can dictate epithelial jamming/unjamming.

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of secondary interval AngioJet rheolytic thrombectomy after localized intra-arterial catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) through power-pulse spray (PPS) technique in partially successful or failed primary AngioJet rheolytic thrombectomy cases of acute and subacute peripheral artery thrombosis.

Background The role of dual-modality drainage of walled-off necrosis (WON) in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP) is established. However, there are no data on the association of clinical outcomes with the timing of percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD). We investigated the impact of the timing of PCD following endoscopic drainage of WON on clinical outcomes in AP.

Beneficial microbes are crucial for improving crop adaptation and growth under various stresses. They enhance nutrient uptake, improve plant immune responses, and help plants tolerate stresses like drought, salinity, and heat. The yield potential of any crop is significantly influenced by its associated microbiomes and their potential to improve growth under different stressful environments. Therefore, it is crucial and exciting to understand the mechanisms of plant–microbe interactions. Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the primary staple foods worldwide, in addition to wheat and rice. Maize is also an industrial crop globally, contributing 83% of its production for use in feed, starch, and biofuel industries. Maize requires significant nitrogen fertilization to achieve optimal growth and yield. Maize plants are highly susceptible to heat, salinity, and drought stresses and require innovative methods to mitigate the harmful effects of environmental stresses and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. This review summarizes our current understanding of the beneficial interactions between maize plants and specific microbes. These beneficial microbes improve plant resilience to stress and increase productivity. For example, they regulate electron transport, downregulate catalase, and upregulate antioxidants. We also review the roles of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in enhancing stress tolerance in maize. Additionally, we explore the application of these microbes in maize production and identify major knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to utilize the potential of beneficial microbes fully.

Background: The crucial aspect to consider during method development and validation, ensuring accurate, precise, and specific estimation of drug substances and drug products, is stability. Various factors, including environmental, instrumental, reagent, and human factors, can pose challenges in achieving suitable method development and validation. Objective: This work aimed to develop and validate a low flow rate, LCMS compatible, simple, and rapid reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method for estimating efavirenz and its degradation products at different stress conditions. Materials and Methods: The HPLC system employed a Phenomenex Luna 5μ C18 (2) 100A (250 x 4.6 mm) column and a mobile phase of methanol: 20 millimolar ammonium formate solution (90:10) adjusted to pH 4 with formic acid. All analytes were separated within 15 minutes and detected at 247 nm. Method validation was carried out according to ICH guidelines, including linearity, accuracy, precision, ruggedness, robustness, LOD, and LOQ. Results and Discussion: The method was linear in the 10-90 μg/ml range, with a regression coefficient 0.999. Intra- and inter-day precisions, ruggedness, and robustness were within acceptable limits (≤2% RSD) with LOD and LOQ of 0.35 and 1.16 μg/ml, respectively. Degradation study indicates well resolution of the drug and degradants. Conclusion: Purposeful degradation of efavirenz resulted in different degradation products under various stress conditions, and the method demonstrated satisfactory resolution from its degradants.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has highlighted Poland's significant geopolitical role in Eastern Europe. Despite ongoing conflicts since 2014, the recent escalation has increased regional security volatility, particularly for countries like Poland. This study examines Poland's strategic position and role in the Ukraine conflict by analysing its geopolitical and geostrategic implications within the broader Eastern European framework. The research, employing qualitative content analysis and a phenomenological approach, investigates how Poland's geopolitical stance both influences and is influenced by the evolving dynamics of the Ukraine war and Eastern European geopolitics. Our findings indicate that Poland has not only reinforced its strategic importance in the area, but also shaped its role as a key player in the ongoing conflict. This engagement reflects a broader strategy to counter Russian aggression while strengthening ties with NATO and the EU, thereby enhancing its sway in the region.

Let $ \left\{E_{n}\right\}_{n\geq0} $ and $ \left\{P_{n}\right\}_{n\geq0} $ be sequences of Perrin and Padovan numbers, respectively. We have found all repdigits that can be written as the sum or product of $ E_{n} $ and $ P_{m} $ in the base $ \eta $, where $ 2\leq\eta\leq10 $ and $ m\leq n $. In addition, we have applied the theory of linear forms in logarithms of algebraic numbers and Baker-Davenport reduction method in Diophantine approximation approaches.

Radish is a widely cultivated root crop susceptible to chemicals for its growth and development. The experiment was conducted to study the effect of different sources of organic fertilizers on growth and yield parameters in the Tokinashi variety of radish. The experiment was laid out using one factorial completely randomized block design with six treatments replicated four times. Vermicompost, goat manure, chemical fertilizers (NPK), poultry manure, farmyard manure and control were the applied treatments. Various growth and yield parameters of radish were measured and assessed at 15-day intervals. Various growth and yield parameters of radish were measured and assessed at 15-day intervals. Growth parameters were observed at 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after sowing. For yield parameters, destructive samples were taken and observed at 30 DAS and 45 DAS and harvested at 60 DAS. The assessments of plant growth and yield parameters showed that poultry manure (PM) treatments were superior. At the time of harvesting, the treatment comprising poultry manure had considerably greater plant height (30.55 cm), leaf length (29.44cm), leaf breadth (10.78cm), leaf number per plant (9.23), root diameter (10.33cm) and root length (20.16cm) with superior yield per ha (33.59 mt ha-1). Poultry manure significantly enhanced root yield and was positively correlated with all growth parameters. The highest benefit-cost (B: C) ratio was recorded in chemical fertilizer (3.99), which was statistically at par with poultry manure (3.81), suggesting that poultry manure might potentially replace chemical fertilizers for the Tokinashi variety of radish cultivation.

Impatiens karenensis (I. sect. Semeiocardium) from Kayin State, Myanmar is described and illustrated here. It is most similar to I. micromeris, but differs in having lower petals with outer margins strongly undulate in the lower half (vs. lower petals entire), apex of upper petals acute to obtuse (vs. apex rounded), short stout spur, ± as long as the depth of lower sepal, ca. 2.5 mm long (vs. long attenuate spur, twice as long as the depth of lower sepal, ca. 5 mm long). Its conservation status is also assessed as Critically Endangered.

Abstract Twelve polyoxygenated cyclohex(a/e)ne diterpene esters, named albiflorenes A–L (1–12), were isolated from the whole plants of Kaempferia albiflora, known as “Prao Mang Mum.” Their structures and relative stereochemistry were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Furthermore, the comparison of experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) curves with the curves predicted by TDDFT was used to determine the absolute configurations. Albiflorenes contain polyoxygenated cyclohexane (or cyclohexene) derivatives, which are linked to either isopimarane or abietane diterpene acid units. The discovery marks the first occurrence of a conjugate between polyoxygenated cyclohexane (or cyclohexene) rings and diterpenoids. Among the isolates, albiflorene C specifically exhibited antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus with MIC and MBC values of 3.13 and 6.25 μg/mL, respectively.

Abstract Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Chronic inflammation and synaptic dysfunction lead to disease progression and cognitive decline. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are implicated in AD progression by facilitating the spread of pathological proteins and inflammatory cytokines. This study investigates synaptic dysfunction and neuroinflammation protein markers in plasma-derived sEVs (PsEVs), their association with Amyloid-β and tau pathologies, and their correlation with AD progression. Methods A total of 90 [AD = 35, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) = 25, and healthy age-matched controls (AMC) = 30] participants were recruited. PsEVs were isolated using a chemical precipitation method, and their morphology was characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Using nanoparticle tracking analysis, the size and concentration of PsEVs were determined. Antibody-based validation of PsEVs was done using CD63, CD81, TSG101, and L1CAM antibodies. Synaptic dysfunction and neuroinflammation were evaluated with synaptophysin, TNF-α, IL-1β, and GFAP antibodies. AD-specific markers, amyloid-β (1–42), and p-Tau were examined within PsEVs using Western blot and ELISA. Results Our findings reveal higher concentrations of PsEVs in AD and MCI compared to AMC (p

Tremendous increase in anthropogenic activities and natural disasters have created long term negative impacts to the crop productivity as well as on our ecosystem. In the debate regarding the ongoing ecosystem fluctuations, there is a need to explore an efficient, cost-effective, target-oriented and less manpower-based technologies for sustainable development. Microbial engineering provides a better solution for the growth of a healthy environment and higher agricultural productivity over the existing methods and resolved the challenges worldwide related to development of sustainable agriculture and greener ecosystems. In recent years, researchers are working on the development of different advanced microbial engineering strategies such as gene editing, CRISPR/Cas9, and RNAi to enhance the potential of microorganisms towards higher plant productivity and degradation of pollutants. The present review focused on the potential applications of genetically engineered microbial inoculants for sustainable agriculture and greener ecosystem development.

This study examines the heat and mass transfer aspects of the natural convective flow of a nanofluid along a vertical flat surface, incorporating electrified nanoparticles and electric Reynolds number. While conventional nanofluid models like Buongiorno’s model overlook the nanoparticle electrification and electric Reynolds number mechanisms, this study addresses the nanoparticle electrification and electric Reynolds number mechanisms by justifying its relevance, particularly when tribo-electrification results from Brownian motion. This incorporation of the electric Reynold number and nanoparticle electrification mechanism is a unique aspect of this investigation. Using the similarity method and nondimensionalization, the governing partial differential equations of the flow are transformed into a set of locally similar equations. MATLAB's bvp4c solver is employed to solve this set of equations, along with the boundary conditions. The obtained results are validated by comparison with those from previously published works. Graphical representations are provided for the numerical outcomes of non-dimensional velocity, concentration and temperature concerning the nanoparticle electrification parameter and electric Reynolds number. The combined effects of the nanoparticle electrification parameter and the electric Reynolds number on non-dimensional heat and mass transfer coefficients are examined in tabular form. Furthermore, the impact of the nanoparticle electrification parameter on both heat and mass transfer for varying values of the Brownian motion parameter is explored graphically. The primary finding of this investigation indicates that the electrification mechanism of nanoparticles quickens the transfer of heat and mass from a flat surface to nanofluid, suggesting promising prospects for utilization in cooling systems and biomedical applications.

PURPOSESquamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is the sixth most common cancer, with approximately 225,419 new cases with over 125,000 deaths annually in India. This trial compared the efficacy and safety of biosimilar cetuximab versus innovator cetuximab (IC) in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy in patients with recurrent locoregional or metastatic SCCHN.METHODSThis phase III trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind and parallel group study performed in Indian patients with recurrent locoregional or metastatic SCCHN. Patients were randomly assigned in 2:1 ratio to receive biosimilar cetuximab and IC in combination with cisplatin and fluorouracil via intravenous infusions. The primary end points were disease control rate (DCR) and overall response rate (ORR) as per response evaluation criteria in solid tumors version 1.1. The secondary end points included pharmacokinetics (PK), immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability.RESULTSOf 180 patients enrolled, 120 patients received biosimilar cetuximab and 60 patients received IC treatment. No significant statistical difference was observed in the primary outcomes between two groups. Treatment difference in DCR and ORR response was found to be –5.21 (90% CI, –8.94 to –1.48) and –4.79 (90% CI, –19.42 to 9.84), respectively, indicating noninferiority to reference product. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs; biosimilar cetuximab: 89.2% v IC: 91.7%; P = .8364) and serious AEs (biosimilar cetuximab: 23.3% v IC: 13.3%; P = .0603) and PK parameters were comparable between treatment groups. The immunogenicity findings showed higher incidence of anticetuximab antibodies in the biosimilar cetuximab group compared with the IC group at the end of Study.CONCLUSIONThe findings of this study demonstrated noninferiority along with comparable PK, safety, and immunogenicity of biosimilar cetuximab and IC in patients with recurrent or metastatic SCCHN.

Abstract The CanMEDS-2015 Framework outlines seven key roles expected of practicing physicians: communicator, collaborator, manager, health advocate, scholar, and professional. Critics have expressed concern about the omission of a proposed eighth role, ‘Physician as Person’ relevant to humane qualities and personal resilience of the physician. Upon further analyses, the Framework has included several virtuous attributes in the roles of a physician as professional and communicator. However, it addresses certain virtues like creativity, love, and spirituality inadequately. Drawing on literature from Positive Psychology, the author categorizes and additional set of virtues into six classes: wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence. Based on these, the author lists virtues and concepts relevant to a ‘Virtuous Role’ for physicians. The CanMEDS Framework should integrate these virtues as a foundational or overarching role and draw from Virtue Ethics in religious and philosophical traditions. This approach is timely, giving ongoing efforts to update and develop CanMEDS2025. By adopting a Virtuous Role within CanMEDS, we aim to train physicians who are technically skilled and deeply humane, meeting society's expectations for compassionate and virtuous healthcare professionals

Digital payments in India are rising with a high share of mobile payments; still, it faces a digital divide. Concerning digital financial services, India has the lowest number of women who owe debit and credit cards, and less than one-third of women receive and make digital payments among the G-20 nations. Hence, the present study investigates female users' risk perception and its effect on trust and satisfaction and, ultimately, continuance usage intention towards mobile payment services. Furthermore, the impact of self-efficacy is examined on continuance usage intentions. This study tested empirical data from 444 existing female mobile payment users. The result indicates that financial and performance risks negatively impact users' satisfaction and trust, but privacy risk has no role among female users. Surprisingly, psychological risk is positively associated with female users' trust and satisfaction, and self-efficacy strengthens continuance usage intention. Trust and satisfaction mitigate risk perception and foster continuance usage.

Introduction: Echocardiography is an indispensable tool for the diagnosis and management of cardiac patients. It is important to know the spectrum of cardiac abnormalities detected by echocardiography for the proper management of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the echocardiographic diagnosis of patients at a multispecialty tertiary care hospital and find out the prevalence of various cardiac diseases diagnosed via echocardiography. Methods: This was a retrospective cross sectional study carried out at the Echocardiography lab of National Academy of Health Sciences. Records of all patients who had done Echocardiography from February 2024 to April 2024 were analyzed. Ethical approval was obtained from Institutional Review Committee (Reference Number:1231/2080/81). Results: Out of 3593 cases, there were 1750 (48.71%) female and 1843 (51.29%) male. Normal echocardiographic study was seen in 1184 (32.95%). Mean age was 56.13±17.38 years. Left ventricle diastolic dysfunction was seen among 1428 (39.74%), followed by tricuspid regurgitation 1026 (28.55%) and pulmonary hypertension 497 (13.83%). Other findings were, left ventricular hypertrophy 204 (5.67%), Left ventricular systolic dysfunction 165 (4.59%), rheumatic heart disease 102 (2.83%) and, congenital heart disease was the lowest documented finding, seen in 30 (0.83%). Conclusions: Most common diseases diagnosed by echocardiography in our study were, diastolic dysfunction, tricuspid regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension.

IntroductionIn today's era, conducting nursing research is crucial for the advancement of the nursing profession. Scientific publications in clinical research aim to improve patient care outcomes and foster a sense of importance for nurses within the healthcare team. However, clinical nurses often fall behind due to factors such as limited familiarity, attitudes toward research, and encountered barriers.ObjectivesThis study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers regarding scientific research publications among clinical nurses at tertiary care hospitals in western Rajasthan.MethodologyA cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among the clinical nurses. The participants were assessed for their knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers regarding scientific research publications through a self-administered questionnaire.ResultsThe study revealed that 92% of the participants lacked sufficient knowledge about scientific research publications and 78.3% experienced moderate perceived barriers. Pearson's correlation coefficient indicated a weak positive correlation (r = 0.143, p = 0.007) between knowledge and attitude and a significant negative correlation (r = −0.143, p = 0.012) between knowledge and perceived barriers. However, multiple linear regression analysis showed no significant relationship among the clinical nurses in terms of knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers toward scientific research publications.ConclusionThis study on clinical nurses revealed that the majority had insufficient knowledge about scientific research, while over half had neutral attitudes toward research publications. In addition, a significant portion of the clinical nurses reported experiencing moderate perceived barriers.

ABSTRACT The Gram staining method differentiates bacteria based on their cell envelope structure, with the monoderm and diderm cell envelope types traditionally being synonymous with Gram-positive and Gram-negative stain results, respectively. Monoderms have a single phospholipid membrane surrounded by a thick layer of peptidoglycan, while diderms have a lipopolysaccharide outer membrane exterior to a thin peptidoglycan layer. The Bacillota (formerly Firmicutes) phylum has members with both cell wall types, and recent phylogenetic analyses have shown that monoderm Bacillota evolved from diderm ancestors on multiple occasions. Here, we compiled Gram staining and ultrastructural data for Bacillota species with complete genomes to further investigate the evolution of Gram-positive and Gram-negative cell wall types. The results indicate that many deeply branching lineages at the root of Bacillota phylum stain Gram-negative but do not harbor genes for outer membrane protein or lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis. Phylogenetic reconstructions suggest that several deeply branching Bacillota species have retained a thin peptidoglycan layer in their cell walls, which was inherited from a diderm ancestor. Taxa with this atypical Gram-negative-staining cell wall structure include the thermophilic anaerobe Symbiobacterium thermophilum and members of the Desulfotomaculia, Syntrophamonadia, Desulfitobacteriia, Thermosediminibacteria, and Thermoanaerobacteria. Using Gram-staining results as a proxy for cell wall thickness, our analysis indicates that several independent peptidoglycan thickening events may have occurred in the evolution of the Gram-positive cell envelope.IMPORTANCEIn this study, we examined the evolution of bacterial cell envelopes, specifically focusing on Gram-positive and Gram-negative cell wall types in the Bacillota phylum. Our results indicate that certain bacteria can stain Gram-negative despite having a monoderm cell wall structure, thus challenging the conventional interpretation of Gram-staining results. Our observations also question the assumption that Gram-negative staining is always indicative of a diderm structure. These findings have broader implications for understanding how and when cell walls thicken during the evolution of bacterial cell envelopes.

Background: Kalyanaka Ghrita (KG) is polyherbal oleaginous medicament consisting of extracts from twenty-eight different plants, indicated for management of psychosomatic disorders like Unmada (Schizophrenia), Apasmara (Epilepsy) and numerous other ailments. Objective: To develop and validate standard manufacturing procedure of KG by following Ayurvedic principles in three batches to ensure process uniformity and standards. Materials and methods: Three batches of KG were prepared by adopting principles of Ashtanga Hrudya and Ayurvedic Formulary of India to ensure consistency in manufacturing process. Observations during process such as temperature, duration were recorded. KG was subjected to chief desired characteristics, organoleptic (color, odour, taste, texture, touch), physicochemical (acid value, peroxide value, iodine value, saponification value, loss on drying, refractive index, specific gravity, mineral oil, rancidity test, viscosity) as per pharmacopeial standard. Chromatographic screening and fingerprinting of KG were conducted through GCMS whereas quantification of curcumin and chebulagic acid biomarkers were assessed through HPLC. Results: Average yield of KG was 83.41%, with average intermittent heating duration of 20.35 h subsequently divided into three days. Temperature throughout preparation ranged from 66 °C to 101 °C. KG was pale olive in colour, exhibiting pleasant taste, characteristic smell, and soft texture. Organoleptic and physicochemical characters were comparable for three batches of KG while safety parameters were found within permissible limits. Conclusion: Pharmaceutical standardization of Kalyanaka Ghrita is necessary for establishing biological and chemical profile of formulations. Present study recommends use of coarse powdered ingredients for optimal yield during pharmaceutical process, and heating up to Madhyama Paka stage calibrated over three days with average temperature of 85 °C. The data obtained from this study may contribute to future research and development activities, serving as a basis for manufacturing standards of KG.

Long bone fractures are common orthopedic conditions. There are numerous ways to repair these fractures. Bone grafting becomes necessary when a broken bone has a significant gap. However, due to insufficient donor volume and donor site morbidity, substitutes are required. In veterinary orthopaedics, calcium carbonate from cockle shells could be used as a bone biomaterial. We investigated its efficacy as a bone biomaterial repair for goat femoral fractures. The study included 10 healthy adult male Black Bengal goats weighing 8 kg and aged 12–13 months. The study includes control and treatment groups. Intramedullary pinning stabilized an 8-mm right femur diaphyseal fracture in the treatment and control groups. The treated group received 2 ml of bone paste in the fractured gap, whereas the control group left it empty. We examined all goats with X-rays on the 7th, 45th, and 60th days, followed by gross and histological findings. Due to callus bridging, radiographs revealed faster bone growth in the treated group than in the control group. Gross examination demonstrates the treated group had a larger fracture callus than the control group. Histopathology showed that bone formed faster and included more osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and bony spicules than in the control group. The treated group had more periosteum osteoblasts, while the control group had fibroblasts. These results showed that the treated group had more osteogenic activity than the control group. This study demonstrates the potential of cockle shell-based calcium carbonate bone paste as a synthetic biomaterial for healing long bone fractures in goats.

Introduction: Breast cancer incidence has overtaken that of cervical cancer among women in India according to the Globacon 2020 reports. Cancer management is also being streamlined at the Center and district levels, such that comprehensive integrated management is offered to cases to optimize the best results. In breast cancer, there are two modes of surgery namely Breast Conservation Surgery(BCS) and Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM) now over 2 decades, with recommended Chemo radiation depending on the extent of the disease. HRQOL (Health-related Quality of Life) studies have been done in these groups of patients, due to their added relevance in terms of the loss of a vital organ like the breast. EORTC 30 and BR23 are standardized and detailed tools that have been seen to estimate QOL, keeping in mind a whole array of domains that are affected by the disease. Objective: To evaluate the “Body Image” and “Quality of life” (QOL) in operated breast cancer patients using BR -23 and EORTC – QLQ- questionnaire at 1month (after surgery) and then 3 to 4 months after surgery. Methods: This article attempts to draw a comparison among of EORTC30 and BR 23 scores calculated for 46 breast cancer patients operated during the pandemic time in one center and consenting to repeat the measures at pre-decided three time periods during the course of management. Results: No significant differences are noted in the mean scores for EORTC 30 and BR23 for the two types of surgeries. Visit 1 scores for both modes of surgery are over 75 and by Visit 3 become less than 55 for EORTC. BR 23 (which measures the symptoms core to Breast cancer) at all 3 visits are between 45 to 55. Friedman’s test shows that the scores are not significant for age groups, the number of living children, or lifestyle factors like alcohol or tobacco chewing, though quadratic graphs depict the distinct variations in the scores at the 3 times reinforcing the need for follow-up of mental health in these subjects at intervals. The study largely brings out a strong need for repeated follow-up and counseling at regular and short intervals, post-surgery in breast cancer patients. EORTC 30 and BR 23 tools are excellent to use to essay information on the mental health of patients with breast cancer.

Microplastics are tangible particles of less than 0.2 inches in diameter that are ubiquitously distributed in the biosphere and accumulate in water bodies. During the east-coast hot summers (23–29 °C) of 2021 and 2022, June through September, we captured copious amounts of the jellyfish Chrysaora chesapeakei, a predominant species found in the Patuxent River of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland on the United States East Coast. We determined that their gelatinous bodies trapped many microplastics through fluorescent microscopy studies using Rhodamine B staining and Raman Spectroscopy. The chemical nature of the microplastics was detected using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy headspace (SPME-GC-MS) and solvent extraction (GC-MS) methods through a professional commercial materials evaluation laboratory. Numerous plastic-affiliated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from diverse chemical origins and their functional groups (alkanes, alkenes, acids, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, esters, and alcohols) along with other non-microplastic volatile organic compounds were observed. Our findings corroborate data in the available scientific literature, distinguishing our finding’s suitability.

In the face of growing global freshwater scarcity, the imperative to recycle and reuse water becomes increasingly apparent across industrial, agricultural, and domestic sectors. Eliminating a range of organic pollutants in wastewater, from pesticides to industrial byproducts, presents a formidable challenge. Among the potential solutions, membrane technologies emerge as promising contenders for treating diverse organic contaminants from industrial, agricultural, and household origins. This paper explores cutting-edge membrane-based approaches, including reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, ultrafiltration, microfiltration, gas separation membranes, and pervaporation. Each technology's efficacy in removing distinct organic pollutants while producing purified water is scrutinized. This review delves into membrane fouling, discussing its influencing factors and preventative strategies. It sheds light on the merits, limitations, and prospects of these various membrane techniques, contributing to the advancement of wastewater treatment. It advocates for future research in membrane technology with a focus on fouling control and the development of energy-efficient devices. Interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry players is vital for shaping water purification innovation. Ongoing research and collaboration position us to fulfill the promise of accessible, clean water for all. HIGHLIGHTS Effective wastewater treatment helps to recycle and reuse water.; Membrane technologies are promising for treating wide organic contaminants.; This paper explores various advanced membrane techniques.; This review examines membrane fouling, including influencing factors and prevention strategies.; It illuminates the evolving membrane techniques, aiding the progress of wastewater treatment.;

Abstract The unique electronic properties of topological quantum materials, such as protected surface states and exotic quasiparticles, can provide an out-of-plane spin-polarized current needed for external field-free magnetization switching of magnets with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. Conventional spin–orbit torque (SOT) materials provide only an in-plane spin-polarized current, and recently explored materials with lower crystal symmetries provide very low out-of-plane spin-polarized current components, which are not suitable for energy-efficient SOT applications. Here, we demonstrate a large out-of-plane damping-like SOT at room temperature using the topological Weyl semimetal candidate TaIrTe4 with a lower crystal symmetry. We performed spin–torque ferromagnetic resonance (STFMR) and second harmonic Hall measurements on devices based on TaIrTe4/Ni80Fe20 heterostructures and observed a large out-of-plane damping-like SOT efficiency. The out-of-plane spin Hall conductivity is estimated to be (4.05 ± 0.23)×104 (ℏ ⁄ 2e) (Ωm)−1, which is an order of magnitude higher than the reported values in other materials.

Abstract Despite the availability of various drugs for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), alpha(α)-blockers are the preferred first-line treatment. However, there remains a scarcity of direct comparisons among various α-blockers. Therefore, this network meta-analysis (NMA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of α-blockers in the management of BPH. A comprehensive electronic search covered PubMed, Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library until August 2023. The primary endpoints comprised international prostate symptom score (IPSS), maximum flow rate (Qmax), quality of life (QoL), and post-void residual volume (PVR), while treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were considered as secondary endpoints. This NMA synthesized evidence from 22 studies covering 3371 patients with six kinds of α-blockers with 12 dose categories. IPSS has been considerably improved by tamsulosin 0.4 mg, naftopidil 50 mg and silodosin 8 mg as compared to the placebo. Based on the p-score, tamsulosin 0.4 mg had the highest probability of ranking for IPSS, PVR, and Qmax, whereas doxazosin 8 mg had the highest probability of improving QoL. A total of 297 adverse events were reported among all the α-blockers, silodosin has reported a notable number of TEAEs. Current evidence supports α-blockers are effective in IPSS reduction and are considered safer. Larger sample size with long-term studies are needed to refine estimates of IPSS, QoL, PVR, and Qmax outcomes in α-blocker users.