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Modern cancer diagnostics and treatment options have greatly improved survival rates; the illness remains a major cause of mortality worldwide. Current treatments for cancer, such as chemotherapy, are not cancer-specific and may cause harm to healthy cells; therefore, it is imperative that new drugs for cancer be developed that are both safe and effective. It has been found that lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have the potential to produce bacteriocins, which could potentially offer a promising alternative for cancer treatment. They have been shown in several studies to be effective against cancer cells while having no effect on healthy cells. More research is needed to fully understand the potential of LAB bacteriocins as anti-cancer medicines, to find the appropriate dose and delivery route, and to conduct clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the products in human patients, as is suggested by this work. Furthermore, LAB bacteriocins may evolve into a significant new class of anti-cancer drugs and food products. Patients with cancer may have a safe and effective alternative treatment option in the form of anti-cancer foods and drugs. Therefore, the aim of this study is to provide an in-depth analysis of the recent breakthroughs and potential future technical advancements of significant bacteriocins that are produced by LAB, how these bacteriocins function, and how these bacteriocins may be utilized as an anti-cancer agent. In addition, the current analysis emphasizes the significant constraints and boundaries that bacteriocins face when they are used as an anti-cancer factor.

Objectives: Vault closure is the final step to hysterectomy, protecting the abdominal cavity from the exterior environment. Thus, closure becomes crucial in preventing ascend of infection to the peritoneal cavity. Our study aims to compare vault closure between laparoscopic and vaginal routes, their operating time, and postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: The ambispective comparative study was done in a tertiary care teaching center from June 2016 to December 2022. Three hundred and forty-four patients were included in the study that underwent a total laparoscopic hysterectomy. Interventions – Patients who had laparoscopic vault closure were in Group 1 (N = 198) and those who had vaginal closure were in Group 2 (N = 146). The results were compared. It included age, body mass index of the patient, the indication of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, size of the uterus, time taken during vault closure, and postoperative complications. Results: The time taken by laparoscopic vault repair was significantly less than vaginal repair (19.7 ± 13.3 min vs. 30.1 ± 6.6 min, P < 0.001). There was postoperative vault infection (2.7%), vault hematoma (1.3%), and no vault prolapse seen in vaginal repair. The organisms isolated were mainly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella. Conclusion: Laparoscopic vault closure has shown significantly improved results compared to vaginal route repair.

Aim: The aim is to study the various histopathological changes in the liver in pediatric patients with choledochal cyst (CC) and correlate with the presentation and type of cyst. Methods: In a prospective observational study including all pediatric patients who underwent CC excision, histopathological changes of the liver in the form of cholestasis (CHS), portal inflammation (PI), bile duct proliferation (BDP), and fibrosis were studied and graded using a scoring system. They were analyzed in relation to age, sex, symptoms, and type of the cyst. Results: All 30 patients of CC showed various degrees of histopathological changes in the liver in the form of CHS, PI, BDP, and liver fibrosis. Patients 1 years had 17/17 (100%) fusiform variety of CC (P < 0.001). Patients 1 years presented with pain abdomen (P < 0.002). Higher grades of liver fibrosis and BDP were seen in the cystic variety compared to the fusiform variety (P < 0.001). However, no significant association was found with CHS and PI (P > 1.23). Conclusions: Histopathological changes in the liver of varying grades are seen in all patients of CC. Patients of CC

Mangifera indica (Anacardiaceae family) is renowned for its diverse pharmacological properties, encompassing antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study delves into the insulin-releasing and glucose-lowering potential of the ethanolic extract of Mangifera indica (EEMI) leaves in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic (STZ-T2D) rats, concurrently investigating its phytoconstituents. EEMI’s effects on insulin secretion were measured using BRIN BD11 β-cells and isolated mouse islets. Its enzymatic inhibitory properties on carbohydrate digestion, and absorption, and free radicals were investigated using in vitro methods. In vivo parameters including the lipid profile and liver glycogen content were assessed in STZ-T2D rats. EEMI exhibited a dose-dependent increase in insulin secretion from clonal pancreatic BRIN BD11 β-cells and isolated mouse islets. EEMI inhibited starch digestion, glucose diffusion over time, and DPPH activity in vitro. In acute in vivo studies, EEMI improved food intake and oral glucose tolerance. Moreover, following 28 days of treatment with EEMI, a remarkable amelioration in body weight, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, liver glycogen content, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL, and HDL levels was observed. Further phytochemical analysis with EEMI identified the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, steroids, and flavonoids. The synergistic effects of EEMI, potentially attributable to naturally occurring phytoconstituents, hold promise for the development of enriched antidiabetic therapies, offering a promising avenue for the management of type 2 diabetes.

Whey is an excellent source of proteins, with a high biological value and essential elements in addition to the proteins it contains. Additionally, it possesses a number of characteristics that are exclusive to it. Whey has been “rediscovered” in recent years and is now being used in a wider variety of food recipes as a result of the features discussed here in the present review paper. It’s possible that using whey instead of the “nutrient goldmine” will be more “economical.” Consumers who are educated on the role that whey plays in human nutrition and are aware of its significance are more likely to be interested in purchasing food products that include whey. Due to the nutritional and functional features that whey possesses, it has been included into a wide variety of food compositions, such as dairy-based products, biofunctional components, confectionary products, and beverages that are both refreshing and nutritious. In this review, several types of food products and beverages containing whey that have been produced so far by researchers from all over the world are described, along with their processing characteristics, sensory attributes, and commercial potential. Moreover, this paper delves into the potential applications of probiotic and functional whey-based products within the realms of biofunctional and therapeutic relevance.

Honey is a natural product that is used by a large number of people because of its distinctive compositional constituents, which have a considerable impact on its market value. The distinctive combination of amino acids and sugars found in honey’s composition, along with its peptide content, could potentially provide several benefits to human health. During the past few years, cutting-edge techniques have been developed and used for the purpose of investigating, identifying, and characterizing peptides that are produced from honey bees. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to examine current trends and technological advancements in the study of honey bee-derived peptides, focusing on innovative and cutting-edge methods. Furthermore, this review explores various attributes of honey and its components, including the honey bee-derived peptide defensin-1. In addition, this review investigates various methods for separating and purifying peptides, as well as the factors that affect these methods. Additionally, defensin-1, a peptide produced by honey bees, is discussed along with its antioxidant and antimicrobial capabilities. In addition, this review focuses on cutting-edge and innovative omic methods used to study honey bee peptides, as well as the significance of artificial intelligence tools in their investigation. Consequently, the review paper delves into various significant obstacles faced by researchers and scientists studying honey bee peptides, while also offering an extensive range of fascinating opportunities and possibilities for future research for those interested in groundbreaking discoveries in this area.

Purpose: To assess the prevalence of DR and the need for screening and management of DR with medical management of diabetes in rural and tribal population in Maharashtra. Methods: The known diabetics of rural area and tribal area were screened at corresponding primary health centers, subcenters, and village level with the help of local healthcare workers using a portable non-mydriatic fundus camera. The prevalence of blindness among known diabetics in rural area was 1.29%, and 0.84% in tribal area. Results: In the rural area, the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) was 5.67% (n = 776), out of those 18.18% had sight threatening diabetic retinopathy (STDR). The prevalence of DR was 7.73% (n = 711) in tribal areas, out of those, 30.90% had STDR. Conclusions: The significant risk factors were identified to be the duration of diabetes and poor glycemic control. Implementation of targeted interventions for screening and management are required to reduce the risk of blindness among known diabetics in rural and tribal areas.

The study aimed to understand Reddit users’ experience with helicopter parenting through first-hand accounts. Text mining and natural language processing techniques were employed to extract data from the subreddit r/helicopterparents. A total of 713 original posts were processed from unstructured texts to tidy formats. Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), a popular topic modeling method, was used to discover hidden themes within the corpus. The data revealed common environmental contexts of helicopter parenting (i.e., school, college, work, and home) and its implication on college decisions, privacy, and social relationships. These collectively suggested the importance of autonomy-supportive parenting and mindfulness interventions as viable solutions to the problems posed by helicopter parenting. In addition, findings lent support to past research that has identified more maternal than paternal models of helicopter parenting. Further research on the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on helicopter parenting is warranted.

Objectives: Laparoscopic skills are not an innate behavior, nor can they be easily mimicked, and can only be acquired through hands-on training. The need for reliable training and its assessment is becoming increasingly important with the course of time. Materials and Methods: A retrospective comparative study was done in a tertiary care center where all patients undergoing hysterectomy by laparoscopic and abdominal route were included in the study. Objectives: Our study aims to compare the operative and postoperative complications of laparoscopic hysterectomy with abdominal hysterectomy. The study was conducted from June 2016 to October 2022. Results: The mean operative time for uteri size lesser than 12 weeks was found significant in the total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) group (75 ± 25 min) to total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) (117 ± 28 min, P < 0.001). The mean blood loss in the TLH group was significant (110 ± 30 ml vs. 160 ± 116 ml, P < 0.002). The mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in TLH (4 ± 2.4 days vs. 7 ± 2.41 days, P < 0.002). The operative and postoperative complications observed were 3.1% in the TLH group and 11.7% in the TAH group. Conclusion: TLH when performed efficiently has proved to be a preferable route over other conventional hysterectomies.

Azathioprine (AZA) is a widely used immunosuppressive which when not monitored cautiously can lead to life-threatening complications like myelotoxicity. In resource-limited countries, acute hair loss starting as early as 2 weeks after drug initiation can be used as a surrogate marker of impending AZA-induced myelotoxicity.

Purpose: This work assesses the change in tear function after LASIK surgery. Methods: This prospective, observational study was conducted in the Refractive Clinic of a tertiary care rural hospital. Tear dysfunction symptoms and the tear function tests were assessed in 269 eyes of 134 patients, OSDI score was used to document the tear dysfunction symptoms. Tear function was assessed by tear meniscus height, tear film break-up time (TBUT), Lissamine green staining, corneal fluorescein staining, Schirmer test 1 without anesthesia before and at 4–6 weeks and 10–12 weeks after LASIK surgery. Results: Preoperatively OSDI score was 8.54 ± 7.71. It increased to 15.11 ± 9.18 postoperatively at 4–6 weeks after LASIK surgery and 13 ± 9.56 at 10–12 weeks after LASIK surgery Mean TBUT preoperatively was 7.82 ± 3.57 sec which decreased to 5.34 ± 2.56 sec at 4–6 weeks and to 4.53 ± 2.63 sec at 10–12 weeks postoperatively. The number of eyes with clear secretion decreased from 40.5% preoperatively to 23.4% at 4–6 weeks and to 22.3% at 10–12 weeks postoperatively, whereas the granular and cloudy secretions increased significantly in eyes after LASIK surgery. The prevalence of eyes with Lissamine green score >3 (dry eye) increased from 17.1% preoperatively to 27.9% at 4–6 weeks and to 30.5% at 10–12 weeks. Similarly, the number of eyes showing positive fluorescein corneal staining increased from 5.6% preoperatively to 19% postoperatively at 4–6 weeks. Mean Schirmer score was 28.83 ± 6.39 mm preoperatively, 22.47 ± 5.38 mm at 4–6 weeks, and 21.27 ± 4.99 mm at 10–12 weeks after LASIK surgery. Conclusion: The prevalence of dry eye increased after LASIK as was assessed by an increase in the tear dysfunction symptoms using OSDI score and the deranged values of various tear function tests after LASIK surgery.

Granulomatous vulvitis (GV) is an idiopathic entity typically presenting with chronic, painless swelling of the genitals with histologic evidence of granulomatous inflammation. Granulomatous vulvitis can typically start as an acute inflammatory condition, which gradually transforms into a chronic disease with a relapsing and remitting course leading to swollen, indurated, and distorted external genitalia. Association of GV with Crohn's disease is being increasingly recognized. However, the association of GV with ulcerative colitis is unreported. Here, we report a rare case of GV in a middle-aged Indian female with characteristic gastrointestinal involvement suggestive of ulcerative colitis. We hope to contribute to an earlier recognition and a better management of the vulvar and gastrointestinal lesions of ulcerative colitis.

Student evaluation of teaching (SET) is ubiquitous in higher education as a metric for assessing teachers, gaining student feedback, and informing faculty personnel decisions. It is thus imperative to examine the dimensions along which a teacher is judged. This study tested the application of the universal dimensions of social judgment (i.e., warmth and competence) in SET. A total of 108 psychology undergraduates (Mage = 23.63, SDage = 3.14) in Singapore rated a fictitious teacher (i.e., either relationship-oriented or task-oriented) based on their interactions over a programmed online chat. Participants responded to the social judgment measures of warmth and competence and rated their academic motivation. Results indicated a higher SET rating for a relationship-oriented than a task-oriented teacher. Further, student academic motivation mediated the link between teaching style and judgment of competence. The findings extend the supremacy of warmth in the context of SET, thus supporting the application of social cognition literature to educational research. In addition, the findings suggest that fostering a match in task goals between a teacher and student improves ratings of teacher competence.

Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) is a disease of abnormal clonal proliferation of langerhans cell of the bone marrow derived monocyte-macrophage lineage. Cells with characteristic coffee bean/grooved/indented nuclei with a background of histiocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils and other inflammatory cells are seen. Clinical presentation varies from unifocal unisystem to multifocal unisystem to multifocal multisystem. We present a rare case of multisystem LCH involving high risk organs in a two and a half year old child. presented with the chief complaints of fever and red raised maculopapular lesions on trunk, palm, forehead and scalp for one and a half yrs with hepatosplenomegaly. There were no lytic lesions of the bones. Haematological parameters showed anaemia with thrombocytopenia while Bone Marrow Aspirate showed increase in histiocytic cell with some cells showing characteristic coffee bean, cleaved irregularly contoured nuclei. However, eosinophilia was not seen. Sections from the skin lesions showed cells with similar morphology without usually accompanied eosinophilia. The cells were CD1a and S100 positive. So a FINAL DIAGNOSIS of langerhans cell histiocytosis was made. The emphasis here lies on thorough analysis of the clinical presentations, imaging studies and scrupulous histomorphological and immunohistochemical examination, so that early diagnosis and timely intervention is ensured in such cases where the characteristic features like lytic lesions of bone and eosinophilia is not found.

Late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins are identified in many crops for their response and role in adaptation to various abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, and temperature. The LEA genes have been studied systematically in several crops but not in Vigna crops. In this study, we reported the first comprehensive analysis of the LEA gene family in three legume species, namely, mung bean (Vigna radiata), adzuki bean (Vigna angularis), and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), and the cross-species expression of VrLEA genes in a wild tetraploid species, Vigna glabrescens. A total of 201 LEA genes from three Vigna crops were identified harboring the LEA conserved motif. Among these 55, 64, and 82 LEA genes were identified in mung bean, adzuki bean, and cowpea genomes, respectively. These LEA genes were grouped into eight different classes. Our analysis revealed that the cowpea genome comprised all eight classes of LEA genes, whereas the LEA-6 class was absent in the mung bean genome. Similarly, LEA-5 and LEA-6 were absent in the adzuki bean genome. The analysis of LEA genes provides an insight into their structural and functional diversity in the Vigna genome. The genes, such as VrLEA-2, VrLEA-40, VrLEA-47, and VrLEA-55, were significantly upregulated in the heat-tolerant genotype under stress conditions indicating the basis of heat tolerance. The successful amplification and expression of VrLEA genes in V. glabrescens indicated the utility of the developed markers in mung bean improvement. The results of this study increase our understanding of LEA genes and provide robust candidate genes for future functional investigations and a basis for improving heat stress tolerance in Vigna crops.

Aim: This study aimed to correlate periodontal pathogens in endodontic periodontal diseases. Methodology: This study was conducted on 40 patients of both genders. All the participants were obtained from department of endodontics and periodontology with history of endo-perio lesion in same teeth. Polymerase chain reaction was performed and correlation was established. Results: This study included 18 males and 22 females. The mean age of male was 42.5 years and female was 41.3 years. Specimens of Tannerella forsythia were isolated from 94% endodontium and 92% periodontium, Porphyromonas gingivalis from 71% endodontium and 55% periodontium, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans from 12% endodontium and 58% periodontium. The difference was significant (P < 0.05). Bacteria in endodontic-periodontal infection confirmed statistically significant correlation between absolute quantitation of T. forsythia and P. gingivalis (r = 0.412, P < 0.05), P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans (r = 0.524, P < 0.05), and T. forsythia and A. actinomycetemcomitans (r = 0.427, P < 0.05). Conclusion: There was correlation between targeted bacterial species levels from concurrent endodontic-periodontal diseases. Thus, it can be suggested that dentinal tubules may be the pathway for spread of bacteria.

Filial piety is a Confucian concept derived from Chinese culture, which advocates a set of moral norms, values, and practices of respect and caring for one’s parents. According to the dual-factor model of filial piety, reciprocal and authoritarian filial piety are two dimensions of filial piety. Reciprocal filial piety is concerned with sincere affection toward one’s parent and a longstanding positive parent-child relationship, while authoritarian filial piety is about obedience to social obligations to one’s parent, often by suppressing one’s own wishes to conform the demands of the parent. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the moderating effect of culture on the relationships between filial piety and palliative care knowledge. The secondary aim is to investigate whether filial piety is a universal construct across Singaporean and Australian cultures. A total of 508 participants living in Singapore and Australia were surveyed between May and October 2020. The final sample comprised of 406 participants, with 224 Singaporeans and 182 Australians. There were 289 females (71.1%), 115 males (28.3%), and two unspecified gender (0.6%) in the sample, with an average age of 27.27 years (SD = 9.79, range = 18–73). Results indicated a significant effect of culture on authoritarian filial piety and palliative care knowledge. Singaporeans showed higher authoritarian filial piety and higher palliative care knowledge than Australians. However, no effect of culture was found on reciprocal filial piety. Overall, no significant correlation existed between palliative care knowledge and reciprocal filial piety and authoritarian filial piety. For Singaporeans, a weak negative correlation was found between palliative care knowledge and authoritarian filial piety. In contrast, Australians and Singaporeans indicated a positive, moderate correlation between reciprocal and authoritarian filial piety. Further, culture moderated the relationship between authoritarian filial piety and palliative care knowledge. High authoritarian filial piety was associated with increased palliative care knowledge among Australians, while high authoritarian filial piety was associated with decreased palliative care knowledge among Singaporeans. The results support the conceptualization of filial piety as a possible psychological universal construct. In addition, the results point out an important implication that public health programs should target the appropriate filial piety types to enhance palliative care knowledge among Singaporeans and Australians.

An entirely unknown species of coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak occurred in December 2019. COVID-19 has already affected more than 180 million people causing ~3.91 million deaths globally till the end of June 2021. During this emergency, the food nutraceuticals can be a potential therapeutic candidate. Curcumin is the natural and safe bioactive compound of the turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) plant and is known to possess potent anti-microbial and immuno-modulatory properties. This review paper covers the various extraction and quantification techniques of curcumin and its usage to produce functional food. The potential of curcumin in boosting the immune system has also been explored. The review will help develop insight and new knowledge about curcumin's role as an immune-booster and therapeutic agent against COVID-19. The manuscript will also encourage and assist the scientists and researchers who have an association with drug development, pharmacology, functional foods, and nutraceuticals to develop curcumin-based formulations.

Refractance WindowTM-Drying (RWD) is one such novel fourth-generation drying technology which has recently gained huge attention due to its several advantages. It is employed to dry the heat-sensitive products even juices and purees to retain the product color, aroma, antioxidant compounds, and nutritional properties. This technology dries the product through a thin, transparent infrared film which effectively forms a ''window” for drying, keeping the product's temperatures very low and ensuring rapid drying, involving all modes of heat transfer. The drying temperature, time, cost, and energy consumption are also lower in this case, but thermal efficiency and product's quality are higher than conventional drying technologies like drum drying, freeze-drying, spray drying, tray drying, etc. which possess their own limitations. The present work, therefore, summarizes the recent trends in RWD, emphasizing its impact on process and food quality properties, and highlights differences between RWD and existing drying technologies. This manuscript discusses in detail the effect of RWD on physical, chromatic, biochemical, functional, structural, textural, and microbial properties of end-product. Further, the patents based on RWD have also been highlighted comprehensively for the first-time, considering their contribution to scientific knowledge and as a platform to support the upcoming developments in the field.

Congenital Heart Diseases (CHD) carry significant morbidity and mortality in paediatric patients. Transposition of Great Arteries (TGA) is a common cyanotic CHD. However, onset of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is potentially severe and rare complication reported in 1-3% of newborns. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a primary disease of cardiac muscle usually recognised in adulthood. Neonatal HOCM without other congenital anomalies, no family history of HOCM, no history of exposure to corticosteroids or any inborn errors of metabolism is rarely recognised. Authors hereby report two cases of neonatal autopsy showing TGA with PAH (Grade 2) and another with HOCM without any primary cause received in our hospital. With this case report authors wish to stress on the importance of cardiac examination (heart and the associated vessels) in autopsy specimen which in turn requires training of pathologists in cardiac pathology along with routine fetal anomaly scanning in arriving successively at the final diagnosis and detecting the cause of death which helps in management of future pregnancies by the clinicians.

Behçet’s disease is a multi-systemic vasculitis which is characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulceration with positive pathergy test. These features may also be seen in various hematological malignancies. In patients with leukemia who present with Behçet’s disease-like features, it is often difficult to ascertain whether the clinical manifestations are due to leukemia, or there is co-existing Behçet’s disease too. The authors report an Indian farmer who presented with clinical features suggestive of Behçet’s disease with profound neutropenia. On bone marrow examination he was found to have acute monocytic leukemia (AML-M5). Chemotherapy for leukemia did not relieve his oral and genital ulcers, for which glucocorticoids and colchicine had to be given. So the patient had co-existence of Behçet’s disease along with AML-M5, which has never been reported in the literature before.

The study aimed to investigate the association of varying body mass index (BMI) with oral health status among children aged 5–14 years and correlate the concentration of salivary levels of 1,5-AG with varying BMI, dental caries, and periodontal disease. This cross-sectional study was conducted on subjects aged 5 to 14 years. The children were recruited from the Pediatric Dental Clinic, College of Dentistry, Majmaah University, by convenient sampling method. Sociodemographic details and clinical parameters, including body mass index (BMI), DMFT/def (deciduous decayed tooth (d), deciduous extracted tooth (e), deciduous filled tooth (f), permanent tooth decayed (D), permanent missing tooth (M), and permanent filled tooth (F)), plaque index (PI), and modified sulcular bleeding index (mSBI), were evaluated. Salivary 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) was analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for all the subjects. Statistical analyses performed using SPSS v. 27 (IBM Statistics, Chicago, IL, USA) and the Kruskal–Wallis and chi-square tests were used for comparisons. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient was used to examine the association between the study subjects’ independent variables, BMI, and caries activity. The mean def score, PI, and mSBI scores were higher in obese children. PI score, mSBI score, and salivary concentrations of 1,5-AG between the BMI categories were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The study emphasizes promoting preventive oral health regimes, health awareness campaigns, and nutritional educational programs among the pediatric population.

In December 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)—a novel coronavirus was identified which was quickly distributed to more than 100 countries around the world. There are currently no approved treatments available but only a few preventive measures are available. Among them, maintaining strong immunity through the intake of functional foods is a sustainable solution to resist the virus attack. For this, bioactive compounds (BACs) are delivered safely inside the body through encapsulated food items. Encapsulated food products have benefits such as high stability and bioavailability, sustained release of functional compounds; inhibit the undesired interaction, and high antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. Several BACs such as ω-3 fatty acid, curcumin, vitamins, essential oils, antimicrobials, and probiotic bacteria can be encapsulated which exhibit immunological activity through different mechanisms. These encapsulated compounds can be recommended for use by various researchers, scientists, and industrial peoples to develop functional foods that can improve immunity to withstand the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in the future. Encapsulated BACs, upon incorporation into food, offer increased functionality and facilitate their potential use as an immunity booster. This review paper aims to target various encapsulated food products and their role in improving the immunity system. The bioactive components like antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, polyphenols, omega (ω)-3 fatty acids, lycopene, probiotics, etc. which boost the immunity and may be a potential measure to prevent COVID-19 outbreak were comprehensively discussed. This article also highlights the potential mechanisms; a BAC undergoes, to improve the immune system.

Intra-abdominal masses in children are usually malignant. Benign tumours at this location are not seen frequently. It is even rarer to find solitary myofibromas intra-abdominally as these tumours are known to have predilection for the head and neck region. We present an unusual case of solitary myofibroma with abdominal localisation in a six-year-old male child who presented with abdominal distension since six months. Computed Tomography (CT) abdomen revealed a complex solid-cystic mass extending from umbilicus to right iliac fossa and measuring 9×6×4 cm. Histopathological examination revealed a tumour displaying biphasic nodular pattern with the presence of lighter staining fascicles of mature myoid cells along with darker staining and more cellular areas of smaller primitive cells. On Immunohistochemistry (IHC), tumour cells were positive for vimentin and Smooth Muscle Actin (SMA) with variable reactivity for desmin while these were negative for CD34 and Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase 1 (ALK). Based on the histopathological and immunohistochemical findings, final diagnosis of myofibroma was made. Recognition of these lesions is extremely challenging owing to their rare presentation intra-abdominally and also because of their close morphological overlap with other spindle cell tumours commonly found at this site. This case highlights the combined role played by histopathology and IHC in making a clear distinction between different entities. It is imperative for both clinicians and histopathologists to establish the correct diagnosis as excision of the solitary myofibroma is curative in most cases and offers better clinical course than the more commonly found malignant tumours at this site.

Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a malignant tumour of smooth muscle origin commonly seen in genital and gastrointestinal location. However, its presence in the head and neck region in a young child is extremely rare. Authors present a unique case of LMS in a one year and five-month-old child who presented with a painless mass in the right temporal region of the head. Histopathological examination revealed a highly cellular tumour arranged in intersecting fascicles of spindle cells with brisk mitotic activity and interspersed areas of necrosis. On Immunohistochemistry (IHC), the tumour cells were positive for Smooth Muscle Actin (SMA), Desmin and Vimentin and negative for S100 and Myogenin. A diagnosis of LMS was thus, made. Head and neck sarcoma is a broad entity encompassing plethora of differentials with closely overlapping morphological features which renders them diagnostically challenging, this can be resolved by employing various immunohistochemical stains readily available in all laboratories. This case highlights the combined role played by histopathology and immunohistochemistry in arriving at the correct diagnosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of LMS reported in the temporal region of head and is distinct with respect to its rare incidence, location and age at presentation. LMS at this site may masquerade as deceptively benign painless mass and may not be suspected initially, however one should bear in mind that these are moderate-to-high grade tumours and any delay in management may portend poor prognosis. Timely and aggressive surgical management is thus, the mainstay of treatment and critical to patient survival.

The current review narrates the findings and discusses the available diagnostic tools for detecting structural abnormalities. The review discusses several diagnostic tools, such as magnetic resonance imaging, cone beam computed tomography, multi detector row CT and positron emission tomography. The vital findings and comparative analysis of different diagnostic tools are presented in this review. The present review also discusses the advent of newer technologies, such as the HyperionX9 scanner with less field of view and 18F-FDG PET/CT (positron emission tomography with 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18] fluoro-D-glucose, integrated with computed tomography), which can give more efficient imaging of dentomaxillofacial structures. The discussion of effective comparative points enables this review to reveal the available diagnostic tools that can be used in the detection of dentomaxillofacial abnormalities in the pediatric population. The advantages and disadvantages of each tool are discussed, and the findings of past publications are also presented. Overall, this review discusses the technical details and provides a comparative analysis of updated diagnostic techniques for dentomaxillofacial diagnosis.

The present study is carried out to investigate the contribution of iron in the hematite phase in enhancing the reactivity of red mud. Compressive strength test was performed on the binder synthesized from both unpulverized and pulverized red mud. The results indicated an increase in strength of the pulverized red mud based binder. Test results of Mössbauer Spectroscopy showed transition of metastable ferrihydrite phase to hematite phase when the red mud was processed. An increase in line-width of the Moessbauer sextet and an increase in the area of doublet of pulverized red mud based binder hinted at the increase in Fe3+ ions which could have replaced Al3+ ions in the geopolymer network. Results of Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) test validated the Mössbauer Spectroscopy results. The participation of Fe3+ ions in geopolymerisation was confirmed from the reduction of hematite peak (wavenumber at 462 cm−1). Keywords: Red mud, Pulverization, FTIR, Mössbauer spectroscopy, Compressive strength

Background: The intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN) can present anatomic alterations in its course, but in general it originates as a lateral branch of the second intercostal nerve and penetrates the axilla, in the mid axillary line. Its communication with brachial plexus (BP) is of clinical importance. Neurotization and nerve grafting procedures have renewed interest in the communications of peripheral nerves, like that of between BP and ICBN. Aims and Objective: The current study was conducted with an aim to observe the variation in the origin of extra thoracic course of the ICBN and its connection with the components of BP. Materials and Methods: One hundred thirty hemi-thoraxes of 65 adult cadavers (35male & 30 female) of Indian origin were dissected. After removal of the skin and superficial fascia, the ICBN was identified from its origin. The point of emergence from the intercostal space and its communication with BP was noted and photographed. Results: Extrathoracically, ICBN originated from the 2nd intercostals space in 100% specimens. Additionally ICBN originated from the 1st intercostals space in 3.8% specimens, from 3rd intercostals space in 20.7% cases. The ICBN communicated more frequently with medial cutaneous nerve of the arm (MCN) in 63% cases and with other BP branches in 44.6% cases. Conclusion: In the present study we observed ICBN and BP are coherently linked anatomically. The anatomical knowledge of ICBN origin and its variable communication with BP branchesis significant in the event of surgical treatment of breast cancers, lymph node clearance, anaesthetic nerve blocks and traction injuries to the brachial plexus.

Background: Knowledge of normal development pattern of various endocrine cells of the human pancreas is of paramount importance, due to its implication during replacement therapies in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Development related literature of fetal pancreas is scanty due to ethical and technical difficulties to obtain fetuses. Aims and Objectives:Present study was conducted on 49 fetuses from gestational weeks 10 to 40 to obtain the sequential appearance and arrangement of islets of langerhans cells of pancreas. Material and Methods: Forty nine fetuses were collected in formal saline immediately after abortion, medical termination of pregnancy or premature delivery. The fetal pancreas was processed for paraffin blocks. Sections were taken and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin as well as Gomori’s modified Aldehyde Fuchsin stain and observed under light microscope. Results: Islets were initially a small number of cells with Alpha cells, which were seen at 10th week of gestation. Beta cells were identified in the islets of fetuses around 16 weeks of gestation. Delta cells were observed from 17 weeks onwards and islets appeared as a group from the beginning of 19th week. Conclusion: In the present study we observed a sequential development of Alpha, Beta and Delta cells and subsequent grouping of the islets. The exact gestational time of appearance of above islet cells and their encapsulation can add to the existing knowledge data base for successful transplant of pancreas in patients of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

Background: Fear of a dental child is most commonly associated with dentist attire and usage of syringe. The objective of the study was to evaluate the preference of dentist's attire and kind of syringe (conventional or camouflage) among different age groups of children. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study A total of 750 children aged 4–14 years were included in the study. All the participants were subdivided into five major groups according to their age, i.e., 4–5 years, 6–7 years, 8–9 years, 10–11 years, and 12–14 years. A set of six photographs which included dentists in white-colored apron, pink-colored apron, green-colored apron, blue-colored apron, and gown with cartoon character and dentists without apron (formal attire) along with: (a) camouflage syringe and (b) conventional syringe were provided to every child and was asked to give his/her preference looking at the six set of pictures. The preference of each child was thus recorded. Children's anxiety level during injections and dentist attire was assessed and recorded using two anxiety scales, i.e. the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale faces version and Facial Image Scale.SPSS statistical software and Chi-square test were used. (P < 0.05). Results: A majority of 35.3% participants in the 4–5-years age group preferred aprons with cartoon character, while 65.3% in the 12–14-years age group selected white apron as the preferred choice. Regarding preference of the syringe type, it was observed that 82% of the younger age preferred camouflage syringe and 75% of the older age preferred conventional syringe. On comparison of both the scales, no significant differences were found. About 82% children in the older age group were reported to be nonanxious with white attire and only 14% were anxious with the conventional syringe type. Conclusion: Younger children have a greater preference of colorful attire of dentist and camouflage syringe over the conventional one when compared to older children.

Congenital pouch colon is a rare anorectal malformation of unknown embryogenesis in which all or part of the large intestine is replaced by a pouch-like dilatation that usually communicates with the urogenital tract via a fistula. This condition is more common among males in North Indian population and is associated with various anomalies such as uterovaginal malformations. It has been classified into five types that are showing a shift over the years towards less severe types such as type 4. We report a case of type 4 congenital pouch colon with anal agenesis without fistula and lower vaginal agenesis in a 29-week-old female fetus diagnosed during autopsy. The absence of a fistula and association with vaginal agenesis in a female fetus, which gets overlooked even in live births, makes it a unique case. Early prenatal diagnosis and awareness about this condition are essential for appropriate management and favorable surgical outcome.

CBCT (Cone-beam computed tomography) is used for diagnosis, planning of treatment, and research. However, there are doubts and opinions regarding the use of CBCT for children and in pediatric dentistry. The knowledge about using this technique for pediatric patients is not clear to the dentists and some dental situations are still debated, therefore this study was done to understand the awareness and knowledge among dental practitioners and students across Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional and descriptive survey was done on 464 dental practitioners and students, and 21 questions were put forward to assess the knowledge and awareness. All questions were then critically analyzed individually and descriptively concluded with appropriate references. Our study revealed that still very few dental practitioners are aware about the latest advances and use of this technique in pediatric dentistry, and more awareness needs to be created.

Drought stress is considered a severe threat to crop production. It adversely affects the morpho-physiological, biochemical and molecular functions of the plants, especially in short duration crops like mungbean. In the past few decades, significant progress has been made towards enhancing climate resilience in legumes through classical and next-generation breeding coupled with omics approaches. Various defence mechanisms have been reported as key players in crop adaptation to drought stress. Many researchers have identified potential donors, QTLs/genes and candidate genes associated to drought tolerance-related traits. However, cloning and exploitation of these loci/gene(s) in breeding programmes are still limited. To bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical breeding, we need to reveal the omics-assisted genetic variations associated with drought tolerance in mungbean to tackle this stress. Furthermore, the use of wild relatives in breeding programmes for drought tolerance is also limited and needs to be focused. Even after six years of decoding the whole genome sequence of mungbean, the genome-wide characterization and expression of various gene families and transcriptional factors are still lacking. Due to the complex nature of drought tolerance, it also requires integrating high throughput multi-omics approaches to increase breeding efficiency and genomic selection for rapid genetic gains to develop drought-tolerant mungbean cultivars. This review highlights the impact of drought stress on mungbean and mitigation strategies for breeding high-yielding drought-tolerant mungbean varieties through classical and modern omics technologies.

Introduction: Autopsy is a procedure that helps to study the cause of death. It should be followed by the histopathological examination as it can help in studying the disease process. Aim: To study the prevalence and pattern of lung and liver diseases in medicolegal and neonatal autopsies along with histopathological examination. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was carried out to highlight histopathological findings in lung and liver medicolegal and neonatal autopsies. A total of 51 lung and 46 liver autopsy samples were received in the department during the study period. Results: The findings that were observed on histopathological examination of lung were oedema, congestion, bronchopneumonia, emphysema, tubercular pneumonia, meconium aspiration, pulmonary hypoplasia, interstitial pneumonia, type I congenital adenomatoid malformation and fungal pneumonia. The findings seen on the histopathological examination of the liver specimens were sinusoidal and vascular congestion, cirrhosis, steatosis, chronic hepatitis, chronic venous congestion, granulomatous inflammation, adenocarcinoma, portal triaditis and hepatic peliosis. However, there were 14 cases among the lung and liver autopsy cases which showed incidental pathological findings which were not known at the time of death. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of histopathological report in lung and liver autopsy cases.

Introduction: Forensic Odontology is the branch of dentistry, that plays a very important role in identification of individuals involved in accident, natural and mass disaster, civil unrest and also in genocide crimes. When natural teeth are not present, marking or labeling of removable partial denture plays an important role in the personal identification. The aim of this study was to obtain a denture identification technique that should be easy, less expensive, long lasting, and standardized. Methods & materials: This poster illustrates an inclusion of the casted individual national identification number that is printed in the patient’s residence or national identity card issued by the ministry of interior of country in the lingual surface of mandibular removable partial denture. Result: The label used in this method is durable and can withstand high temperature, it has less chances of deterioration, and is visible radio graphically. It provides all important information about an individual that is standardized, reliable, and is also easily accessible from any remote location. Conclusion: This technique is easy, less expensive, long lasting, visible radio graphically, and a standardized method of identification.

Heritability, inter-relationship and path coefficient studies were performed in an infra-specific cross between Snapmelon (Cucumis melo var. momordica) and muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) to produce an array of 249 F3 families. A pattern of moderate to high, broad sense heritability was estimated for yield attributing fruit traits. Fruit weight exhibited highest heritability (90.3%) while ovary length and diameter showed lowest heritability. Positive and significant correlation of yield was found with fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, Fruit quality traits ascorbic acid content (Vitamin C) and fruit flesh pH showed positive correlation. Path analysis showed significant positive direct effect of number of fruits per plant and fruit weight on yield. Study on allelic interaction of fruit traits during early generation will allow selection of better inbred lines and variety development reducing the cost of advancement, space and time required for inbreeding large size population.

Placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) is an uncommon vascular anomaly of the placenta characterized by placentomegaly with multicystic placental lesion on ultrasonography and mesenchymal stem villous hyperplasia on histopathology. Placental mesenchymal dysplasia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cases of multicystic placental lesion such as molar pregnancy, chorioangioma, subchorionic hematoma, and spontaneous abortion with hydropic placental changes. However, lack of high-velocity signals inside the lesion and a normal karyotype favor a diagnosis of PMD. PMD must be differentiated from gestational trophoblastic disease because management and outcomes differ. We report the case of an 18-year-old female at 15 weeks of gestation with sonographic findings suggestive of placental mesenchymal dysplasia. The diagnosis was confirmed on histopathology.

A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of herbicides and integrated nutrient managements on weed dynamics, NPK removal and yield of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi during 2009 and 2010. The results revealed that the pendimethalin fb quizalofop-p-ethyl had significantly marked potential to minimize the weed dynamics of Chenopodium album, Melilotus alba, Melilotus indica and Cyperus rotundus significantly, resulted in marked reduction on total weed density (41.48 and 41.11 nos/m), weed dry weight (45.62 and 44.68 g/m) and weed index at all stages of crop growth during 2009 and 2010, respectively and showed higher weed control efficiency over the alone application of pendimethalin. Recommended dose + 200 kg Wellgro Soil (Dust) minimized broad leaves weeds (BLWs) over rest of the fertility levels but at par with RD + 300 kg Wellgro Soil (Dust) in respect of BLWs weed density that resulted in enhanced weed index due to higher weed control efficiency over rest of the fertility levels during both the years of study. Significantly lower NPK removal by weeds at harvest recorded with pendimethalin fb quizalofop-p-ethyl under recommended dose + 200 kg Wellgro Soil (Dust), though remained at par with recommended dose + 300 kg Wellgro Soil (Dust).

Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the second most common carcinoma arising from the renal tubular epithelium. It comprises 10-15% of cases in surgical series. The solid variant of papillary RCC includes only those RCCs that lack true papillae but contain the characteristic immunohistochemical and genetic features of papillary RCC. Here, we present the clinical, histopathologic and immunohistochemical findings of a rare case report of solid variant of papillary RCC. A 45 years old female presented with left abdominal mass. Histopathological sections showed tumour cells arranged in tubules, trabeculae and cords with occasional interspersed long branching and angulated channels with pointed ends. Even extensive sampling of the tumour failed to reveal any papille. The differential diagnosis included solid papillary RCC (s-PRCC), Metanephric Adenoma (MA) and Collecting Duct Carcinoma (CDC). Histologically, these tumours may show overlapping features. The use of IHC markers panel comprising of CK7, EMA, Vimentin, AMACAR and WT1 can help to reach at a diagnosis.

Angiomyoma is a benign tumour arising from smooth muscle of blood vessel walls. These tumours are usually found in the lower extremities presenting as a painful mass. Angiomyoma of the preauricular area is rare, and only a few cases have been reported. Here, we report the case of a 56-year-old male patient with preauricular swelling for 30 years mimicking benign parotid neoplasm. A diagnosis of angiomyoma of the preauricular area was made on the basis of histopathology.

Sclerosing Lipogranuloma (SLG) is a rare disease that affects many organs, with male genitourinary system being the most common site. It is a benign disease which occurs due to a granulomatous reaction of fatty tissue in this area. In most cases, it occurs secondary to exogenous foreign bodies. However, endogenous lipid degeneration can occur due to infection, trauma, and allergic mechanisms. We describe a 34-year-old male patient who presented with a growing, painless scrotal mass on physical examination. Clinical suspicion of paratesticular tumour was made and on cytological examination, possibility of adenomatoid tumour was considered. Histopathological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of paratesticular SLG.

AIM:To evaluate whether glaucomatous visual field defect particularly the pattern standard deviation (PSD) of Humphrey visual field could be associated with visual evoked potential (VEP) parameters of patients having primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).METHODS:Visual field by Humphrey perimetry and simultaneous recordings of pattern reversal visual evoked potential (PRVEP) were assessed in 100 patients with POAG. The stimulus configuration for VEP recordings consisted of the transient pattern reversal method in which a black and white checker board pattern was generated (full field) and displayed on VEP monitor (colour 14”) by an electronic pattern regenerator inbuilt in an evoked potential recorder (RMS EMG EP MARK II).RESULTS:The results of our study indicate that there is a highly significant (PPt-test.CONCLUSION:Prolongation of VEP latencies were mirrored by a corresponding increase of PSD values. Conversely, as PSD increases the magnitude of VEP excursions were found to be diminished.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to find whether the visual evoked potential (VEP) latencies and amplitude are altered with different visual angles in healthy adult volunteers or not and to determine the visual angle which is the optimum and most appropriate among a wide range of check sizes for the reliable interpretation of pattern reversal VEPs (PRVEPs). Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on 40 healthy volunteers. The subjects were divided into two groups. One group consisted of 20 individuals (nine males and 11 females) in the age range of 25-57 years and they were exposed to checks subtending a visual angle of 90, 120, and 180 minutes of arc. Another group comprised of 20 individuals (10 males and 10 females) in the age range of 36-60 years and they were subjected to checks subtending a visual angle of 15, 30, and 120 minutes of arc. The stimulus configuration comprised of the transient pattern reversal method in which a black and white checker board is generated (full field) on a VEP Monitor by an Evoked Potential Recorder (RMS EMG. EPMARK II). The statistical analysis was done by One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using EPI INFO 6. Results: In Group I, the maximum (max.) P100 latency of 98.8 ± 4.7 and the max. P100 amplitude of 10.05 ± 3.1 μV was obtained with checks of 90 minutes. In Group II, the max. P100 latency of 105.19 ± 4.75 msec as well as the max. P100 amplitude of 8.23 ± 3.30 μV was obtained with 15 minutes. The min. P100 latency in both the groups was obtained with checks of 120 minutes while the min. P100 amplitude was obtained with 180 minutes. A statistically significant difference was derived between means of P100 latency for 15 and 30 minutes with reference to its value for 120 minutes and between the mean value of P100 amplitude for 120 minutes and that of 90 and 180 minutes. Conclusion: Altering the size of stimulus (visual angle) has an effect on the PRVEP parameters. Our study found that the 120 is the appropriate (and optimal) check size that can be used for accurate interpretation of PRVEPs. This will help in better assessment of the optic nerve function and integrity of anterior visual pathways.

In view of the increasing use of visual evoked potentials (VEP) technique in neuro-ophthalmological diagnosis, it was thought pertinent to appraise the changes brought about in VEPs in the presence of refractive error (RE) as studied by the vision researchers and neurophysiologists. The purpose of this review was to provide a comprehensive quintessence of the work carried out in this fi eld with an attempt to summarize the previous concepts, recent perspective and current notion about the value of RE in electrophysiologic testing particularly the VEP technique.

A field experiment to study the effect of transplanting date and age of seedlings on growth, yield and quality of rice hybrids under SRI and their effect on soil fertility was conducted on sandy-clay loam soil at Varanasi during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2012 and 2013. The experiment on sandy loam soil was laid out in split-split plot design assigning three dates of transplanting (27 June, 7 July and 17 July) in main plot, two rice hybrids (PHB-71 and Pusa RH-10) in sub-plot and three age of seedlings (10, 14 and 18-day old) in sub-sub plot with three replications. Results revealed that higher growth parameters, viz. plant height (104.2 cm), tillers/hill (20.4), leaf area index (5.16) and dry matter accumulation/hill (31.2 g) and yield attributes, viz. effective tillers/m2 (248.2), panicle length (30.5 cm), grains/ panicle (176), weight/panicle (5.08 g) and test weight (23.11 g), grain and straw yield (6.67 and 8.71 tonnes/ha, respectively) and harvest index (43.17) were observed under 27 June transplanting as compared to rest of the two dates of planting. Protein content in grain and kernel length before and after cooking also registered significant improvement in 27 June transplanted crop. The magnitude of increase in grain and straw yield of hybrid under SRI by the early transplanting (27 June) as compared to the late transplanting (17 July) was 19.9 and 15.2 %, respectively on pooled basis. However, soil pH, EC, organic carbon, available NPK, hulling, milling and head rice recovery percentage, kernel breadth (B) before and after cooking, length (L) elongation ratio and L/B ratio remained unaffected due to different dates of transplanting. Among the hybrids, PHB-71 produced markedly higher plant height (104.8 cm), tillers/hill (17.6), leaf-area index (4.91), dry matter accumulation/hill (29.5 g), effective tillers/m2 (236.4), panicle length (30.1 cm), grains/panicle (188), weight/panicle (4.62 g), test weight (22.67 g), grain yield (7.00 tonnes/ha), straw yield (8.95 tonnes/ha) and harvest index (43.87) over Pusa RH-10. Organic carbon content in soil as well as quality parameters viz. hulling, milling and head rice recovery percentage, protein content and kernel breadth before and after cooking were also recorded higher with PHB-71 than the Pusa RH-10. However, maximum available NPK, kernel length before and after cooking, length elongation and length breadth ratio before cooking were recorded with ‘Pusa RH-10’. Younger aged seedlings (10-day old) recorded significantly higher growth and yield parameters, yields and harvest index over older aged seedlings (18-day), whereas maximum available NPK was recorded with older aged seedlings (18-day). The 10-day old seedlings gave 6.4 and 12.9% more grain yield than 14 and 18-day old seedlings, respectively. Interactive effect on grain yield was significant among date of transplanting, age of seedlings and hybrids. Transplanting of PHB-71 hybrid on 27 June having either 10 or 14-day old seedlings resulted in markedly higher grain yield as compared to rest of the treatments.