Search

Aim Methods Results Conclusion There is no universally accepted treatment consensus for haemorrhoids, and thus, management has been individualized all over the world. This study was conducted to assess a global view of how surgeons manage haemorrhoids.The research panel of the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ISUCRS) developed a voluntary, anonymous questionnaire evaluating surgeons' experience, volume and treatment approaches to haemorrhoids. The 44 multiple‐choice questionnaire was available for one month via the ISUCRS email database and the social media platforms Viber and WhatsApp.The survey was completed by 1005 surgeons from 103 countries; 931 (92.6%) were in active practice, 819 (81.5%) were between 30 and 60 years of age, and 822 (81.8%) were male. Detailed patient history (92.9%), perineal inspection (91.2%), and digital rectal examination (91.1%) were the most common assessment methods. For internal haemorrhoids, 924 (91.9%) of participants graded them I–IV, with the degree of haemorrhoids being the most important factor considered to determine the treatment approach (76.3%). The most common nonprocedural/conservative treatment consisted of increased daily fibre intake (86.9%), increased water intake (82.7%), and normalization of bowel habits/toilet training (74.4%). Conservative treatment was the first‐line treatment for symptomatic first (92.5%), second (72.4%) and third (47.3%) degree haemorrhoids; however, surgery was the first‐line treatment for symptomatic fourth degree haemorrhoids (77.6%). Rubber band ligation was the second‐line treatment in first (50.7%) and second (47.2%) degree haemorrhoids, whereas surgery was the second‐line treatment in third (82.9%) and fourth (16.7%) degree symptomatic haemorrhoids. Rubber band ligation was performed in the office by 645(64.2%) of the participants. The most common surgical procedure performed for haemorrhoids was an excisional haemorrhoidectomy for both internal (87.1%) and external (89.7%) haemorrhoids – with 716 (71.2%) of participants removing 1, 2 or 3 sectors as necessary.Although there is no global haemorrhoidal treatment consensus, there are many practice similarities among the different cultures, resources, volume and experience of surgeons around the world. With additional studies, a consensus statement could potentially be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionsIndia relies primarily on direct smear microscopy for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis. However, the low sensitivity of smear microscopy emphasizes the need to improve its performance. We recently described the development of ‘TBDetect’ kit which showed improved performance over direct smear microscopy at National Reference Laboratories (NRLs) in India.The present study was aimed to assess the operational feasibility of ‘TBDetect’ microscopy in field settings. This was evaluated by (i) assessing the performance of ‘TBDetect’ microscopy vs. LED-fluorescence microscopy (LED-FM) on consecutive presumptive pulmonary TB patients (n = 5300) who attended Designated Microscopy Centres (DMCs, n = 13) under 4 NRLs at Bhubaneswar, Bhopal, Chennai, and New Delhi, and (ii) obtaining feedback from Scientists (n = 10) and laboratory technicians (n = 42) using semi-structured questionnaires under the following parameters: feasibility of initiation of ‘TBDetect’ microscopy in DMCs, sample preparation and testing, training, time-to-result, logistics, and troubleshooting. A scoring questionnaire was also used to assess ‘TBDetect’ microscopy vs. LED-FM and statistical significance of the scores was calculated using paired t-test.The overall positivity of ‘TBDetect’ microscopy was 10.32% (547/5300) vs. 8.96% (475/5300) of LED-FM at all sites and the increment in positivity was significant (p = 0.019). In addition, ‘TBDetect’ microscopy yielded an increment in smear grade status over LED-FM (p = 0.043). The feedback from the study-in-charge and kit users indicated that ‘TBDetect’ microscopy was easily adapted in point-of-care settings. An analysis of scoring feedback suggested that it was easy to perform and observe in comparison to LED-FM (p < 0.005).This study established the feasibility of ‘TBDetect’ microscopy in field settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examined the impact of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma treatment on the physicochemical characteristics of taro peel starch (TPS) and its films. This work reports for the first time on using native and modified TPS in the casting procedure to develop packaging films. The results showed that, as plasma exposure voltage and treatment time prolonged, the pH, 955 cm−1/1022 cm−1, % crystallinity, and turbidity of TPS significantly decreased, while amylose content, solubility, and 1047 cm−1/1022 cm−1 of TPS increased considerably. Despite this, modified TPS‐based films have comparatively smooth and homogeneous surfaces. Moreover, the modified starch‐based film exhibited the lowest water vapor permeability, elongation at break, and solubility, while highest opacity and tensile strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper deals with the cost benefit analysis of a two non-identical unit cold standby system model with the implementation of preventive maintenance (PM) on the priority unit after it has operated for a random duration. The objective is to evaluate the economic viability and performance of such system. A single repairman is consistently available within the system, responsible for both PM and repair of each failed unit. The priority in repair is given to priority (p) unit over ordinary (o) unit. The failure time distribution of each unit is assumed to be exponential while the repair time distribution of both the unit is taken as inverse Gaussian. The PM time and time to PM of the priority unit are correlated having their joint distributions as bivariate exponential. By considering the regenerative point technique, various measures of system effectiveness are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Foreign body ingestion is common in pediatric age group however can be found in any age group with intellectual disability and neurodevelopmental delay. There is usually a delay in presentation and interventions following foreign body ingestion in patients with neurodevelopmental delay, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and complications owing to inability of such patients giving relevant history. Most ingested foreign bodies naturally pass through the digestive tract without untoward effects. Only a few patients may require surgical interventions. Principle of management should be to reduce anxiety among patients and their visitors. Speedy recovery is enhanced so that they can return to their familiar environment soon. Foreign body ingestion is common in pediatric populations and may be found in any age group with intellectual disability and neurodevelopmental delay. As the patient cannot give a clear and relevant history, there is usually a delay in presentation and interventions following foreign body ingestion in patients with neurodevelopmental delay, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and complications. Most foreign bodies pass through the digestive system without any complications, and very few require surgical intervention. The goal should be to reduce anxiety among patients and their visitors and to enhance speedy recovery so that they can return to their familiar environment soon. Here we report a case of Acute intestinal obstruction secondary to ingestion of the head portion of a doll which was managed with emergency laparotomy with enterotomy and removal of foreign body in a 16 years female with Autism Spectrum Disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch is a crucial part of the human dietary regimen. Still, its restricted water solubility, low viscosity, and weak heat stability are unfavorable physicochemical characteristics that restrict its use in food applications. So, in the 21st century, green and novel technologies such as cold plasma technology (CPT) and plasma‐activated water (PAW) have been employed for starch modification to improve the starch's physicochemical, digestibility, functional, structural, and thermal properties. This article provided an in‐depth evaluation of the use of cold plasma intervention in starch systems. Moreover, starch was modified due to cross‐linking, plasma etching, and depolymerization mechanisms mediated by plasma species. We may conclude that CPT and PAW are substitute methods for changing starch characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundCase descriptionConclusionsPrimary leptomeningeal lymphoma (PLML) without brain parenchymal involvement or systemic disease is very rare, comprising of approximately 7% of all primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSL). PLML is a diagnosis of exclusion which should be confirmed on biopsy after ruling out metastasis from systemic lymphomas and dissemination from PCNSL.A 21-year-old patient presented with the chief complaints of headache, diplopia, decreased vision for five months, and a swelling on the left side of the forehead for four months. On radiology, a large, lobulated, extra-axial mass lesion along the left frontal region with its base towards dura noted. No parenchymal or subependymal CNS lesions were found on CT/MRI. Histopathology was reported as primary leptomeningeal CD30 positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma.PLML is a very rare meningeal tumor that requires a very high index of suspicion and is always a diagnosis of exclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) requires treatment with fluoroquinolone (FLQ) drugs, however, the excessive use of FLQ has led to the rise of extensively drug-resistant TB. In 2019, ~ 20% of total MDR-TB cases were estimated to be resistant to FLQ drugs. In the present study, we developed and evaluated the utility of high-resolution melt curve analysis (HRM) for the rapid detection of FLQ-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis for the first time directly from sputum samples. A reference plasmid library was generated for the most frequently observed mutations of gyrA gene and was used to discriminate between mutant and wild-type samples in the FLQ-HRM assay. The developed assay was evaluated on n = 25 MDR M. tuberculosis clinical isolates followed by validation on archived sputum DNA (n = 88) using DNA sequencing as a gold standard. The FLQ-HRM assay showed a 100% sensitivity [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 71.5 to 100] and specificity (95% CI: 39.7 to 100) in smear-positive category, and a sensitivity of 88.9% (95% CI: 77.3 to 95.8) with 84.2% (95% CI: 60.4 to 96.6) specificity in smear-negative category. The assay showed a high level of concordance of ~ 90% (κ = 0.74) with DNA sequencing, however, we were limited by the absence of phenotypic drug susceptibility testing data. In conclusion, HRM is a rapid, cost-effective (INR 150/USD 1.83) and closed-tube method for direct detection of FLQ resistance in sputum samples including direct smear-negative samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally ovarian tumor is one of the leading causes of cancer death among women. It can present in childhood to postmenopausal age group and accounts for the most prevalent cause of hospital admissions. Ovarian tumor has varied histogenesis, clinical behavior and malignant potential. Aim and Objectives: This study was done to analyse the frequency of ovarian lesions, their clinicohistological features in a tertiary care center. Materials and Methods: Prospective hospital based study conducted in the department of pathology in tertiary care hospital in central India over a period of 1 year. All the relevant clinical data of patients who were treated surgically for suspected benign lesions of ovary were analysed. Results: Out of the total of 120 cases, 92 cases were classified as benign, accounting for 76.6% of the cases. There were 4 cases classified as borderline, representing 3.28% of the cases. The remaining 24 cases were classified as malignant, making up 20.12% of the cases. Serous cystadenoma is a frequently observed benign tumour. Serous cystadenocarcinoma is a frequently observed malignant tumour. The younger age group predominantly exhibited benign tumours, while malignant tumours were more prevalent among the senior age group. Malignant ovarian tumours are most frequently observed in women who have never given birth. Conclusion: Ovarian tumours of the surface epithelium were the most prevalent. Typically observed in individuals aged 40 to 59 years. The highest incidence of malignant ovarian tumours occurred in individuals over the age of 50. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary cutaneous blastomycosis is very rare in non-endemic regions like India. Only few cases have been reported from India. Herein, we are reporting a rare case of chronic cutaneous blastomycosis in a young immunocompetent male presenting as mycetoma with multiple discharging sinuses in the anterior abdominal wall with no significant travel history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen metabolism in the genus Citrobacter is very poorly studied despite its several implications in wastewater treatment. In the current study, Citrobacter portucalensis strain AAK_AS5 was assessed for remediation of simulated wastewater supplemented with different inorganic nitrogen sources. Combination of (NH4)2SO4 with KNO3 was the most preferred for achieving high growth density followed by (NH4)2SO4 and KNO3 alone. This was in agreement with highest ammonical nitrogen removal of 92.9% in the presence of combined nitrogen sources and the corresponding nitrate nitrogen removal of 93% in the presence of KNO3. Furthermore, these removal capacities were validated by investigating the uniqueness and the spread of metabolic features through pan-genomic approach that revealed the largest number of unique genes (2097) and accessory genes (705) in strain AAK_AS5. Of the total 44 different types of nitrogen metabolism-related genes, 39 genes were associated with the core genome, while 5 genes such as gltI, nasA, nasR, nrtA, and ntrC uniquely belonged to the accessory genome. Strain AAK_AS5 possessed three major nitrate removal pathways viz., assimilatory and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (ANRA & DNRA), and denitrification; however, the absence of nitrification was compensated by ammonia assimilation catalyzed by gene products of the GDH and GS-GOGAT pathways. narGHIJ encoding the respiratory nitrate reductase was commonly identified in all the studied genomes, while genes such as nirK, norB, and nosZ were uniquely present in the strain AAK_AS5 only. A markedly different genetic content and metabolic diversity between the strains reflected their adaptive evolution in the environment thus highlighting the significance of C. portucalensis AAK_AS5 for potential application in nitrogen removal from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosette-forming glioneuronal tumor (RGNT) of the 4th ventricle is a newly described WHO grade I brain tumor included in recent WHO classification of CNS tumors. It is a biphasic tumor thought to originate from pluripotent progenitor cells of subependymal plate. Intra-operative diagnosis plays an important role, as complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice. We are reporting a case of RGNT in a 19 years-old young male emphasizing the intra-operative pathological pointers and their role in accurate diagnosis for the suitable surgical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development goals (SDGs) were meant to put each and everywhere ‘at par’. The tobacco epidemic globally is one major deterrent to their achievement. While it gets addressed under SDG 3 through the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) - the World Health Organization (WHO) global treaty (the target 3.a of SDG 3), the progress made globally and by India is slow. As a result, many countries may fall short of achieving the target of reducing tobacco usage (taking 2016 as base year) by 30 per cent by the year 2030. India with its high burden of tobacco use and abysmally low quitting along with soaring economic costs of tobacco related diseases and deaths can do better with the engagement of multisectoral stakeholders to strengthen tobacco control under SDGs. Moreover, there is a need to emphasize that the goal of O - Offer to Quit of WHO MPOWER can be achieved through increasing ‘onus’ on policy makers, and strategists, and opportunities for masses, tobacco users, healthcare professionals (HCPs) and enforcers to have tobacco cessation delivered optimally. By doing so, the United Nations can significantly facilitate a reduction in tobacco use and the resultant economic costs. Furthermore, it will assist the WHO to fulfil the targets set for 2030 under SDG 3.a by the FCTC member countries. In addition, it will fulfil the vision and mission defined in the Chandigarh declaration of the 5th National Conference on Tobacco or Health for India to be tobacco free by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical data such as menstrual cycle or uterine size often are not reliable parameter for pregnancy dating. Sonographic measurements of the fetus provide information about gestational age, growth and expected date of delivery. Aims: To develop a reference chart to estimate gestational age by ultrasonographic measurement of fetal bi-parietal diameter (BPD) and to find out correlation between two variables. Material and Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted on among 750 pregnant women of gestational age of 14-40 weeks, attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology out-Patient department during one year period. Each fetus was ultrasonographically measured for BPD, the mean was used in subsequent statistical analysis. Statistical Analysis: It was done by the software SPSS version 21.0. A p-value < 0.05 considered to be significant. The previously published nomograms were compared by using unpaired t-test. Correlation & regression analysis has been done for BPD and GA. Results: Out of total 750 participants, 97.6% females confirmed their pregnancy by urine pregnancy test, 22.9% had dating scan, mean height was 163.004 cm. On ultrasound examination 78% participants had vertex, 7.6% had breech and 14.4% had variable presentation of fetus.Mean BPD increases 3.07 mm per week from 14to30 weeks and 1.93 mm per week from 31 to 40 weeks. For establishing a relationship between two variables GA & BPD, the correlation & regression analysis has been done.Sigmoid regression equation was the best for this study. Conclusions: Data showing that North Indian fetuses are smaller than European fetuses after 22 weeks gestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present paper is to deal with the cost-benefit analysis of a two identical unit cold standby system model. There are two modes of a unit say Normal(N) and Total failure(F). When a unit operates then any of the two types of failure minor or major may occur some fixed known probabilities. Two repairmen are always available with the system to repair a unit failed with minor or major fault respectively. Upon failure of an operative unit the cold standby unit starts operations instantaneously with a perfect switching device. After minor and major repair of a failed unit it becomes as good as new. The distributions of failure times of minor and major faults and each type of repair time are assumed to follow geometric distributions with different parameters. Using regenerative point technique with the basic tools of probabilistic argument and Laplace Transform various important measures of system effectiveness useful to system designers and operations managers have been obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present paper is to deal with the analysis of the classical and Bayesian estimation of various measures of system effectiveness in a two non-identical unit parallel system. Each unit has two possible modes Normal (N) and total failure (F). A single repairman is always available with the system and after working for a random period he goes for rest for a random period. After taking complete rest he again starts the repair of the failed unit on a pre-emptive repeat basis. The system failure occurs when both the units are in (F-mode). The distributions of failure time as well as working and rest time of repairman are assumed to be exponential whereas repair time and rest time distribution of repairman are taken as general. A simulation study is also conducted for analysing the considered system model both in Classical and Bayesian setups. Bayesian estimates of various measure of system effectiveness are also obtained by taking different priors. The comparative study is made to judge the performance of Maximum likelihood estimation and Bayesian estimation methods. A simulation study at the end exhibits the behaviour of such a system. The Monte-Carlo technique is employed to draw observations for this simulation study. To obtain various interesting measure of system effectiveness technique have used the Regenerative point technique, MCMC technique and Gibbs sampler technique. From the graphs and tables we have drawn various important conclusions such that a smaller value of failure rate 1 introduces a larger value of Maximum likelihood estimate and Bayes estimates for fixed value of the parameter of the repairman rest time distribution. Moreso, when the value of the failure rate 1 increases the mean time to system failure and net expected profit are also decreases. To compare the performance of asymptotic confidence interval and highest posterior density interval with the maximum likelihood estimates technique, it has been observed that width of the highest posterior density interval is less than the width of an asymptotic confidence interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenols are ubiquitous pollutants, mainly from industrial effluent, causing pollution of natural water resources. The research focused on screening efficient phenol-degrading bacteria and kinetic modelling of phenol biodegradation and growth. Membrane filtration was used for the isolation of bacteria from the wastewater sample. The screening of phenol-degrading bacteria was based on the efficiency of phenol utilization. The strain with efficient phenol degradation capacity was characterized by 16S rDNA sequencing and designated Acinetobacter baumannii W29. Biomass growth and phenol utilization rate of the strain were evaluated at different initial phenol concentrations (100-800 mgL-1). Specific growth rate data were fitted to five models, i.e. Monod, Haldane, Aiba, Teisser, and Webb model. The yield coefficient at different initial phenol concentrations was calculated from the slope of the specific growth rate (μ) versus the specific phenol utilization rate (q). The strain showed complete phenol degradation potential up to 1000 mgL-1. The maximal growth rate was achieved at 400 mgL-1, which coincided with the maximum substrate utilization rate at the same concentration. The specific growth rate showed the best fit with the Haldane model. The strain had a yield coefficient of 0.70 (mg cell mg-1 phenol). The value of µ and Ks revealed the affinity of the strain for high-concentration phenol and the its ability to withstand high phenol concentrations. The kinetic growth behaviour of the strain fitted well with the Haldane model. The findings of the study could be applied to wastewater treatment with a high phenol load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the draft genome sequence of Bacillus velezensis strain AAK_S6 as a valuable biocontrol agent with high genetic potential to harbor broad-spectrum secondary metabolite producing capacity. A genome data of 4,430,946 bp were generated with a GC content of 46.4% that comprised a total of 4861 genes including a total of 4757 coding sequences (CDS), 104 rRNAs, 85 tRNAs and 80 pseudo-genes. Based on the overall genome-based relatedness indices (OGRI), the strain AAK_S6 has been reassigned to its correct taxonomic position. The strain shared > 99% OrthoANI, > 98% ANIb, > 99% ANIm, > 0.9900 TETRA, > 93% dDDH and 0.08% GC content difference with model strains B. velezensis FZB42T and B. velezensis NRRL B-41580T thus delineating them as closely related species. The genome was mined for strain-specific secondary metabolites that revealed 20 gene clusters for the biosynthesis of several cyclic lipopeptides, saccharides, polyketides along with bacilysin. Thus, the comparative genome analysis of strain AAK_S6 with members of the genus Bacillus by phylogenomic approach revealed that the genomes were almost similar genetically and contained the core genome for B. velezensis. Genomic data strongly supported that the strain AAK_S6 represented an excellent potential candidate for the production of secondary metabolites that could serve as a basis for developing new biocontrol agents, plant growth promoters, and microbial fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foreign body in the anal canal may be inserted for sexual gratification or sexual assault or accidental or drug trafficking. We report a case of a male who accidentally inserted a cough syrup bottle in his rectum. Presentation is usually late due to fear and embarrassment. The manual attempt of removal may be tried under adequate anesthesia. Post-procedure sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be helpful to diagnose laceration or mucosal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold plasma is a non-thermal, effective, environmentally friendly and promising technique for modifying starch. In the current study, the effect of different voltages (15–25 kV) and exposure times (2–10 min) of HVDBDA cold plasma treatment (CPT) on the crystalline, multistructural, thermal, physicochemical and digestibility behavior of modified taro starch was investigated. The results showed that HVDBD-CPT increased the percentage amylose content (12.86–17.49%), water binding capacity (1.26–1.60 g/g), oil binding capacity (1.71–2.03 g/g), lightness value (92.38–97.42) and bulk density as well as tap density, while pH (6.07–5.04), percent turbidity (73.82–53.01%) and percent crystallinity (41.77–33.11%) decreased significantly with increasing tension and exposure time. However, the native and modified starch exhibited A and B type starch associated with the presence of nanocrystals with orthorhombic and hexagonal structures. However, the accumulation of aggregates and increased surface roughness of the modified starch were also observed in SEM and AFM analysis. Furthermore, FTIR analysis revealed significant differences in the functional groups of the modified starch. In addition, all modified starch a decrease in molecular weight (peak 1: 131.75 × 105 g/mol to 111.55 × 105 g/mol; peak 2: 6.78 × 104 g/mol to 1.44 × 104 g/mol), enthalpy and pasting properties, while the gelatinization temperature increased. Nevertheless, the digestibility behavior (% RDS and % RS) of the modified starch increased with increasing tension and exposure time, while the % SDS decreased. Thus, the plasma treatment changed the properties of the starch due to the depolymerization and etching effect. Consequently, cold plasma modification has shown a top-notch potential to modify starch with unique properties and increase the versatility of taro starch in the food industry. [Display omitted] • CPT improved the morphology, surface roughness and powder flow properties of taro starch. • PH, enthalpy and Mw of taro starch were reduced in the modified starch. • Water and oil binding capacity, RDS and RS of taro starch were increased after CPT. • A-type and B-type starch showed nanocrystals with orthorhombic and hexagonal structure. • Starch properties changed due to the depolymerization and etching effects of CPT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal landfills are known for methane production and a source of nitrate pollution leading to various environmental issues. Therefore, this niche was selected for the isolation of one-carbon (C1) utilizing bacteria with denitrifying capacities using anaerobic enrichment on nitrate mineral salt medium supplemented with methanol as carbon source. Eight axenic cultures were isolated of which, isolate AAK/M5 demonstrated the highest methanol removal (73.28%) in terms of soluble chemical oxygen demand and methane removal (41.27%) at the expense of total nitrate removal of 100% and 33% respectively. The whole genome characterization with phylogenomic approach suggested that the strain AAK/M5 could be assigned to Pseudomonas aeruginosa with close neighbours as type strains DVT779, AES1M, W60856, and LES400. The circular genome annotation showed the presence of complete set of genes essential for methanol utilization and complete denitrification process. The study demonstrates the potential of P. aeruginosa strain AAK/M5 in catalysing methane oxidation thus serving as a methane sink vis-à-vis utilization of nitrate. Considering the existence of such bacteria at landfill site, the study highlights the need to develop strategies for their enrichment and designing of efficient catabolic activity for such environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, India is recognized for providing comprehensive coverage of tobacco cessation through the infrastructure and resources over the last two decades. Nevertheless, its current tobacco burden is worrying due to an increase in ~2 million initiators and 5.87% tobacco related deaths annually. Objective: It was to identify and describe challenges and barriers in tobacco cessation delivery that exist at various levels of health care as well as at the level of tobacco users, their care givers and communities in which they live. Method: Besides authors' first-hand collective experience in the tobacco control for over 80 years and ~35 years in tobacco cessation and reviewed references, the stakeholders communications during various events along with telephonic or in-person with some of them were assimilated to comprehend an overall understanding of the issue. Results: The challenges and barriers are primarily due to low priority assigned by the relevant functionaries, the inadequacy of resources, poor engagement of health-and insurance-sectors and healthcare workers, a low intent to quit by its users, suboptimal and discontinuous enforcement of the Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003 (COTPA), and indifference of the non-users. Conclusion: The countrywide strategic initiatives required "as a package" should include political and bureaucratic commitment, mass communication on benefits of quitting, licensed current users quitting through a timeline, use of systems approach in tobacco cessation delivery, implementation, and enforcement of vendor licensing and the proposed amendments in COTPA. Their perceived benefits will become a win-win situation for all stakeholders engaged in tobacco cessation delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister is an effective biocontrol agent of Parthenium hysterophorus L. We evaluated the variability in reproductive attributes and diapause behaviour among populations of Z. bicolorata from six geographical locations of India, viz. Jammu, Poonch, Rajouri, Almora, Jabalpur and Coimbatore. This was done to optimize its augmentative rearing. We collected the adult insects from these locations and reared them in the laboratory. The eggs obtained from these adults were reared from egg-hatch to adult emergence to determine the development, reproduction, diapause and the influence of extremes of temperature on survival. The percentage of pupation (84.30 ± 1.41%), adult emergence (86.75 ± 1.11%), egg viability (77.30 ± 2.02%) fecundity (2159.5 ± 8.45 eggs), and longevities of males and females (86.5 ± 4.8 and 146.9 ± 6.1 days) were greater in the Coimbatore population of South India experiencing tropical climatic conditions than the other populations. In addition, this population had the lowest incidence of diapause in adult males (26.1 ± 1.0%) and females (26.1 ± 1.0%), and shortest mean diapause durations. The Coimbatore population had the highest survival when adult females were exposed to three suboptimal temperatures with the highest survival at 35 °C, followed by 45 °C and – 5 °C, while the Jabalpur and the Almora populations survival was the lowest. The adult survival percentage of this tropical population declined with an increase in the duration of exposure to the temperature extremes. We conclude that tropical climatic conditions favour development and reproduction, and minimize the prevalence of diapause in Z. bicolorata than the colder habitats of northern India. The findings may help mass rearing of parthenium beetle under controlled conditions and to manage parthenium across various geographical habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Swine tuberculosis (TB) is a highly progressive granulomatous infectious disease. The cases usually go undiagnosed and become a potent source of infection to other animals and humans. In Ayodhya and Sultanpur districts, no such study has been conducted so far. Keeping in view the zoonotic importance of this disease, the present study was, therefore, designed to study the prevalence of generalized swine tuberculosis in Middle Gangetic Plain Zone of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Methods: Forty-two (42) pigs were presented for postmortem at Department of Veterinary Pathology, C.V. Sc. and A.H., ANDUAT, Ayodhya from nearby villages of Ayodhya and Sultanpur districts from April 2017 to February 2020. Pigs were screened for typical lesions of tubercles throughout the body during postmortem examination. Result: The prevalence was 7.14% out of 42 pigs presented for postmortem examination. Eight pigs (19.04%) had nodules in either lungs or liver but these were diagnosed negative for TB on ZN (Ziehl-Neelsen) staining. Typical tubercles were evident in liver, spleen and lungs and were characterized by the presence of circumscribed yellowish white raised lesions of various sizes and numbers. Microscopically, granulomatous lesions revealed necrotic areas surrounded by mixed inflammatory cells including macrophages, lymphocytes and plasma cells. The ZN stain reveals presence of acid fast bacilli in impression smear made from lung, spleen and liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To comprehensively evaluate robustness and variations of DCE-MRI derived generalized-tracer-kinetic-model (GTKM) parameters in healthy and tumor tissues and impact of normalization in mitigating these variations on application to glioma. A retrospective study included pre-operative 31 high-grade-glioma(HGG), 22 low-grade-glioma(LGG) and 33 follow-up data from 10 patients a prospective study with 4 HGG subjects. Voxel-wise GTKM was fitted to DCE-MRI data to estimate Ktrans, v e , v b. Simulations were used to evaluate noise sensitivity. Variation of parameters with-respect-to arterial-input-function (AIF) variation and data length were studied. Normalization of parameters with-respect-to mean values in gray-matter (GM) and white-matter (WM) regions (GM-Type-2, WM-Type-2) and mean curves (GM-Type-1, WM-Type-1) were also evaluated. Co-efficient-of-variation(CoV), relative-percentage-error (RPE), Box-Whisker plots, bar graphs and t -test were used for comparison. GTKM was fitted well in all tissue regions. Ktrans and v e in contrast-enhancing (CE) has shown improved noise sensitivity in longer data. v b was reliable in all tissues. Mean AIF and C(t) peaks showed ~38% and ~35% variations. During simulation, normalizations have mitigated variations due to changes in AIF amplitude in Ktrans and v b.. v e was less sensitive to normalizations. CoV of Ktrans and v b has reduced ~70% after GM-Type-1 normalization and ~80% after GM-Type-2 normalization, respectively. GM-Type-1 (p = 0.003) and GM-Type-2 (p = 0.006) normalizations have significantly improved differentiation of HGG and LGG using Ktrans. Ktrans and v b can be reliably estimated in normal-appearing brain tissues and can be used for normalization of corresponding parameters in tumor tissues for mitigating inter-subject variability due to errors in AIF. Normalized Ktrans and v b provided improved differentiation of HGG and LGG. • AIF is an essential component for fitting generalized-tracer-kinetic-model to DCE-MRI data. • High inter-subject variability in AIF magnitude causes large variations in computed parameters (Ktrans, v e and v p). • Discrepancies in magnitude scale causes error during quantitative comparison of glioma characteristics. • Ktrans and v p computation is significant and reliable in normal-appearing tissues and can be used for normalization. • Normalization improves the accuracy of glioma grading using Ktrans and v p. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate load paths in an existing light-frame wood structure with a complex, realistic geometry using computer modeling methods developed by the authors for simpler structures. The structural model was derived from an existing, multilevel residence located in Corvallis, Oregon. Gravity and wind loads were examined. Modeling was done with SAP 2000 for behavior within the linear-elastic range using frame and shell elements. Results showed gravity load paths and the governing load combinations for different parts of the structure. Wind investigations revealed load concentrations at corners and openings due to uplift pressure on the roof and overturning forces from lateral wind loads on the walls. Additionally, load concentrations are dependent on wind direction and loading type and the dead load present. Load paths for this asymmetrical structure show that the shear carried in each wall is dependent on the wind direction and wall stiffness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The origin of luminescence thermochromism is briefly discussed. • The relationship between clusters and their electronic structures is described in detail. • The mechanism of luminescence thermochromism in silver clusters is highlighted. • The outcomes and important future aspects of silver(I) cluster are proposed. Stimuli-responsive materials have garnered significant attention in technology, sensors, and biological applications because of their quick response to various external factors. These include light, temperature, change in solvent, pressure fluctuations, mechanical friction, and alteration in pH values. Luminescence thermochromism, in particular, refers to the ability of materials to vary the color of their fluorescence emission as a function of temperature. Interestingly, silver clusters ranging from discrete to higher-dimensional structures show luminescence thermochromism due to strong argentophilic interactions and protecting ligands, affecting their emission position, intensity, and lifetime. These ultra-small materials possess superior photostability, biocompatibility, and low toxicity, holding great promise for potential applications. This review article provides valuable insights into the structural features of silver clusters for designing and developing luminescent thermochromic silver clusters. Additionally, this highlights the mechanisms behind luminescence thermochromism, including structural rigidity, competition between bathochromic and hypsochromic shifts, and thermally activated delayed fluorescence. The aim of this review is to inspire new ideas and concepts for developing new luminescent thermochromic silver cluster materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. We analyzed the clinicopathological features, resectability, immunohistochemical markers, and various factors predictive of disease recurrence and survival.Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database of GIST patients managed from 2005 to 2016 was done. Size, site, malignant potential, nuclear pleomorphism, histopathological variety, immunohistochemical markers, type of surgery, and adjuvant imatinib therapy were analyzed.Results: Ninety-two patients with GIST were analyzed. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for c-kit (82.4%), DOG1 (75%), and PDGFR-α (79%). Among 16 patients with c-kit-negative tumors, 10 patients were positive for DOG1, PDGFR-α, or both. The most common primary site was stomach (44, 47.8%) followed by small bowel (17, 18.5%) and duodenum (14, 15.2%). Of 92 patients, 80 (87%) underwent R0 resection with organ sparing resection in 56 (70%) patients. Seventeen (21.3%) patients showed recurrence at a median follow-up of 6 years. Median and 5-year overall survival (OS) was 36 months (12-120) and 75%, respectively, and 5-year RFS was 81.8%. On univariate analysis, size, mitotic activity, malignant potential, and nuclear pleomorphism were predictors of recurrence. However, on multivariate analysis, only nuclear pleomorphism was significant.Conclusions: GISTs had a wide spectrum of presentation, and immunohistopathological features with organ sparing resection were conceivable in maximum. Nuclear pleomorphism may be considered as an important variable to predict recurrence in addition to malignant potential of tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an adult female in whom two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated encroachment of the thoracic spine on the left atrium (LA) resulting in a very small, compressed LA cavity by a prominent thoracic spine shadow. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest showed compression of the LA produced by localized anterior deformation of the thoracic spine which had resulted from blunt injury to her spine following a fall from a swing several years previously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An echocardiographic investigation is one of the key modalities of diagnosis in patients suffering from COVID 19, especially if they are elderly, have associated comorbid conditions, and pregnant. Hence, it is becoming extremely essential to look into the correct safety precautions, health-care professionals must take while conducting an echo investigation. At the same time, a focused echo examination aimed at correct imaging view acquisition in the shortest possible time is the need of the hour. The decision matrix formulated for conducting an echocardiographic evaluation is based on the presence or absence of cardiological comorbidity vis-a-vis positive or suspected for COVID- 19. The safety measures and image acquisition have been constructed keeping in mind the current safety precautions by the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Chhattisgarh is an endemic region for rhinosporidiosis infection in Central India. This high prevalence can be explained by suitable hot tropical environment as well as social practice of common bathing of public with animals outdoor, mainly in ponds and river. There are more than 200 ponds in and around Bilaspur district, mainly in Ratanpur region. However, due to limited literature describing rhinosporidiosis from this part of India, it remains neglected and still not recognized as a serious health-care issue and any definite government or private measures/initiatives are not taken to counter this problem. Materials and Methods: It is a retrospective demographic study analyzing 113 consecutive biopsies received from different clinical departments in a tertiary care center with a histological diagnosis of rhinosporidiosis over a period of 7 years from January 2011 to December 2017. Results: Most of the patients presented in the otorhinolaryngology (86.7%) department, followed by ophthalmology (10.6%). The mean age of the patients was 23.4 years, with a range of 3–70 years. A male-to-female ratio of about 3:2 was noted. Nasal cavity was the most common site of involvement (90/113), followed by conjunctiva (7/113), nasal cavity with oropharynx (6/113), and eyelid (3/113). Patients' complaints showed a varying range from nasal block, nasal mass, bleeding, bleed on touch, difficulty in breathing, and conjunctival mass. Two of the cases presented as recurrent rhinosporidiosis. Conclusion: Rhinosporidiosis is endemic and possesses a great health-care burden in Chhattisgarh. The socioeconomic status, outdoor bathing, and cultural practice in rural areas are the major factors contributing to newer cases. An urgent government initiative to decontaminate public water bodies and public health education through health-care workers and nongovernment organizations is the need of the hour to curtail the incidence of rhinosporidiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stratum corneum (SC), the outermost layer of the skin, contains large variety of lipids, endowing them with the amphiphilic properties, needed to fulfil their key role in skin's barrier function. The individual role of lipid types in the barrier function is difficult to understand due to the immense heterogeneity and complexity of the lipid's organization within the SC. The lipid organization is being explored using both computational (molecular dynamics simulations) and experimental (neutron diffraction) techniques. Even though atomistic simulations provide unprecedented atomic level details, the major limitation is time and length scale that can be achieved with decent computational facility. Alternatively, coarse-grain (CG) models are currently being used to capture physics at bigger time and length scale without losing essential underlined structural information. In this study, a CG model of α-hydroxy phytosphingosines (CER[AP]) is developed based on philosophy of MARTINI force field. At first, the model is validated with various atomistic simulations and available experimental data. Later on, the model's compatibility with other major skin lipids, cholesterol, and free fatty acid (palmitic acid) is checked by simulating a mixture of lipid multilayer in presence and absence of water. The developed model of CER[AP] is able to predict key structural properties within the acceptable error limits. The phenomena of ceramide conformation transformation, cholesterol flip-flop, and specificity of lipid arrangement within the multilayered systems is observed during the simulation. This signifies the importance of model in capturing higher order structural transformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to utilise sericulture biowaste, i.e. waste silkworm pupae, for mass production of the predatory stink bug Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff). To achieve this, waste silkworm pupae were frozen and their suitability as a feed to E. furcellata was evaluated under laboratory conditions. The survival, development and biological fitness of the E. furcellata on silkworm pupae were determined and compared with other frozen larvae i.e. Galleria mellonella and Corcyra cephalonica as a feed to the predator. The results indicated that the predator can be successfully mass produced on frozen waste silkworm pupa without any effect on its developmental biology, reproduction and fitness. The optimal production rates and the predation of E. furcellata on silkworm pupae were similar to that on a natural host. It is concluded that the waste silkworm pupae from sericulture industry can be used as a feed/prey for the mass production of the predatory pentatomids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over recent years, research on the ligand‐protected silver clusters have gained significant interest owing to their unique potential applications in catalysis, organic optoelectronics, and luminescent materials. However, the synthesis of structurally precise high‐nuclearity silver nanoclusters is still challenging and become one of the prime interests of chemists. The controllable synthesis of high‐nuclearity silver nanoclusters involves the ingenious use of capping ligands or/and templating agents. Thereinto, the main role of the templating agents is to promote the order arrangement of silver ions around them to form discrete molecules. Our lab has performed comprehensive studies on the ligand‐protected silver clusters in the past eight years. This review highlights recent progress in the use of inorganic template anions, silver precursors, solvents, and the ligand types in synthesizing high‐nuclearity silver nanoclusters. Furthermore, some interesting photo‐ and electrochemical properties revealed by silver clusters including luminescent thermochromism, electrical conductivity, and electrochemical reduction of H2O2 have been also summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the role of amide proton transfer-weighted (APT-w) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in differentiating neoplastic and infective mass lesions using different contrast normalizations, region of interest (ROI) selection, and histogram analysis.Procedures: Retrospective study included 32 treatment-naive patients having intracranial mass lesions (ICMLs): low-grade glioma (LGG) = 14, high-grade glioma (HGG) = 10, and infective mass lesions = 8. APT-w MRI images were acquired along with conventional MRI images at 3 T. APT-w contrast, corrected for B0-field inhomogeneity, was computed and optimized with respect to different types of normalizations. Different ROIs on lesion region were selected followed by ROI analysis and histogram analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilk's test, t tests, ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test, and receiver operation characteristic (ROC) analysis.Results: ICMLs showed significantly (p < 0.01) higher APT-w contrast in lesion compared with contralateral side. There was a substantial overlap between mean APT-w contrast of neoplastic and infective mass lesions as well as among different groups of ICMLs irrespective of ROI selection and normalizations. APT-w contrast (using type 4 normalization: normalized with reference signal at negative offset frequency and APT-w contrast in normal-appearing white matter) reduced variability of APT-w contrast across different subjects, and overlap was less compared with other types of normalizations. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between neoplastic and infective mass lesions using t test for different histogram parameters of type 4 normalized APT-w contrast. ANOVA with post hoc showed significant difference (p < 0.05) for different histogram parameters of APT-w contrast (Type 4 normalization) between LGG and HGG, LGG, and infective mass lesion. Histogram parameters such as standard deviation, mean of top percentiles, and median provided improved differentiation between neoplastic and infective mass lesions compared with mean APT-w contrast. A greater number of histogram parameters of type 4 normalized APT-w contrast corresponding to active lesion region can significantly differentiate between ICMLs than other types of normalizations and ROIs.Conclusions: APT-w contrast using type 4 normalization and active lesion region (ROI-2) should be used for studying APT. APT-MRI should be combined with other MRI techniques to further improve the differential diagnosis of ICMLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freestanding (suspended) graphene films, with high electron mobility (up to ~200,000 cm2V−1s−1), good mechanical and electronic properties, could resolve many of the current issues that are hampering the upscaling of graphene technology. Thus far, attempts at reliably fabricating suspended graphene devices comprising metal contacts, have often been hampered by difficulties in exceeding sizes of 1 µm in diameter, if using UV lithography. In this work, area of suspended graphene large enough to be utilized in microelectronic devices, have been obtained by suspending a CVD graphene film over cavities, with top contacts defined through UV lithography with both wet and dry etching. An area of up to 160 µm2 can be fabricated as backgated devices. The suspended areas exhibit rippling of the surfaces which simultaneously introduces both tensile and compressive strain on the graphene film. Finally, the variations of the Fermi level in the suspended graphene areas can be modulated by applying a potential difference between the top contacts and the backgate. Having achieved large area suspended graphene, in a manner compatible with CMOS fabrication processes, together with enabling the modulation of the Fermi level, are substantial steps forward in demonstrating the potential of suspended graphene-based electronic devices and sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced wireless sensors, incorporating metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), enzymatic systems, and nanocomposites, offer unparalleled solutions for monitoring analytes and human physiological signals. These cutting‐edge sensors, when used with external devices, enable real‐time monitoring of analytes and physicochemical processes within the human body, thereby enhancing the understanding of complex biological systems. This study presents advancements in sensor development, fabrication techniques, and user‐friendly protocols. The performance of these sensors is evaluated based on their selectivity, sensitivity, and detection limits. Moreover, this article explores limitations, challenges, and key strategies to enhance analyte recognition from onsite environmental and biological species, ensuring human point‐of‐care safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: This study involves simulating the process of inhibiting corrosion through the formation of micelles by surfactants and their deposition on iron (Fe) surfaces. The primary focus is on examining CTAB/SDS mixtures in aqueous solutions with different concentrations. Micelle properties, including size, shape, aggregation number, cluster size, and surfactant diffusion, were calculated and validated with experimental data. The coarse-grained Fe surface was modeled and validated against experimental water contact-angle data. Subsequently, the deposition of CTAB/SDS mixtures on the Fe surface and air–water interface was studied systematically. We found that the relative ratio of CTAB/SDS in the solution directly influences surfactant deposition behavior, which might impact the corrosion inhibition efficiency. Methods: All the MD simulations were performed using the GROMACS software with MARTINI2 force field and Martini polar water. The molecules are packed using PACKMOL software. Both NVT and NPT simulations are caried out at temperature and pressure of 303 K and 1 bar respectively, with a nonbonded interaction cut-off (rcut) of 1.1 nm. The LJ potential was shifted from 0.9 nm to rcut, while the electrostatic potential was shifted from 0.0 nm to rcut. For electrostatics, reaction-field coulomb type is used, relative dielectric constant (epsilon-r) and the reaction field dielectric constant (epsilon-rf) are equal to 2.5 and infinity respectively. The dielectric constant below rcut is epsilon-r, and beyond the cut-off is epsilon-rf. Coulomb-modifier used as potential-shift which leads to shift in the coulomb potential by a constant such that it is zero at the rcut. This makes the potential of the integral of the force. The neighbor list was updated every 10 steps, employing a neighbor list cut-off equal to rcut. Using a polar water model, we used a constant time step of 0.02 ps throughout the simulation. The used epsilon-r = 2.5, is recommended for polar water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the proposed study is to investigate the effects of three different power levels (30, 32 and 34 kV) and exposure time (2, 4 and 8 min) of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) atmospheric cold plasma treatment on the functional and physicochemical characteristics of taro starch. Investigations were done into how different treatments impact the multi-structural, functional and physicochemical attributes of taro starch. The findings showed that cold plasma treatments substantially impacted starch granule shapes (3.60–2.54 μm), such as reduced aggregations and developed fissures on granule surface due to the generation of an etching by plasma species and enhancement in the surface topography and roughness of treated starch as compared with native by SEM and AFM analysis. Besides this, no variations were detected in the functional groups of taro starch using FT-IR analysis after cold plasma treatments. However, the A-type pattern in the XRD did not affect it, while a reduction in relative crystallinity (14.20–11.50 %) was seen as a function of the active plasma species depolymerization. Furthermore, depending on the cold plasma voltage and treatment time, amylose content (20.12–15.98 %), paste clarity (24.48–31.27 %), solubility (0.41–65.53 %), freezing thaw stability (% syneresis) (32.10–42.58 %), color properties (L*, 94.79–97.52), whiteness index (79.37–84.66), molecular weight distribution (Peak 1, 12.79–5.35 × 108 g/mol; Peak 2, 4.20–1.56 × 107 g/mol) and in vitro digestibility (RDS, 64.10–64.08 %) significantly changed. So, based on these excellent properties, this study suggested that cold plasm-treated taro starch can be used in the field of food packaging material, functional food and pharmaceutical products. Therefore, a potential approach for physically altering starch is plasma treatment. [Display omitted] • DBD atmospheric cold plasma was successfully applied for taro starch modification. • Cold plasma treatments improved the morphology and surface roughness of taro starch. • Percentage crystallinity of taro starch decreased after cold plasma treatments. • Increased color properties and paste clarity were found for modified taro starch. • Percentage increment in syneresis and solubility were found in treated taro starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The syntheses, design strategies, and structural descriptions of MOFs based on 1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid are discussed succinctly. • Structural features such as dimensionality, topology, porosity, and their applications are elaborated in detail. • Diverse supramolecular assemblies generated through mixed secondary building units (SBUs) via the combination of mixed metals and mixed linkers are highlighted. • The results and important future prospects of MOFs based on 1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylic acid are proposed. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), consisting of metal ions or clusters coordinated with organic ligands, are a class of crystalline materials that have garnered widespread prominence recently due to their unique and tunable properties, forming extended 3D frameworks with well-defined porous structures. Their exceptional chemical and structural properties have captured the attention of researchers worldwide, making them an exciting avenue for developing innovative materials with diverse applications. In particular, MOFs containing ligands with carboxylic acid and N-containing moieties hold great promise for designing novel architectures suitable for various applications. The engineered flexibility and host–guest interaction chemistry of these MOFs make them excellent candidates for pioneering materials. This review presents an inclusive summary of the latest progress in pyrazolate carboxylate MOF design, focusing on their applications in sensing, catalysis, drug delivery, and luminescence. We also introduce the synthetic process and synergistic effects of MOFs in execution. Finally, we briefly outline the obstacles, opportunities, and implications for future development in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the proposed study is to investigate the effects of three different power levels (30, 32 and 34 kV) and exposure time (2, 4 and 8 min) of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) atmospheric cold plasma treatment on the functional and physicochemical characteristics of taro starch. Investigations were done into how different treatments impact the multi-structural, functional and physicochemical attributes of taro starch. The findings showed that cold plasma treatments substantially impacted starch granule shapes (3.60–2.54 μm), such as reduced aggregations and developed fissures on granule surface due to the generation of an etching by plasma species and enhancement in the surface topography and roughness of treated starch as compared with native by SEM and AFM analysis. Besides this, no variations were detected in the functional groups of taro starch using FT-IR analysis after cold plasma treatments. However, the A-type pattern in the XRD did not affect it, while a reduction in relative crystallinity (14.20–11.50 %) was seen as a function of the active plasma species depolymerization. Furthermore, depending on the cold plasma voltage and treatment time, amylose content (20.12–15.98 %), paste clarity (24.48–31.27 %), solubility (0.41–65.53 %), freezing thaw stability (% syneresis) (32.10–42.58 %), color properties (L*, 94.79–97.52), whiteness index (79.37–84.66), molecular weight distribution (Peak 1, 12.79–5.35 × 108 g/mol; Peak 2, 4.20–1.56 × 107 g/mol) and in vitro digestibility (RDS, 64.10–64.08 %) significantly changed. So, based on these excellent properties, this study suggested that cold plasm-treated taro starch can be used in the field of food packaging material, functional food and pharmaceutical products. Therefore, a potential approach for physically altering starch is plasma treatment. [Display omitted] • DBD atmospheric cold plasma was successfully applied for taro starch modification. • Cold plasma treatments improved the morphology and surface roughness of taro starch. • Percentage crystallinity of taro starch decreased after cold plasma treatments. • Increased color properties and paste clarity were found for modified taro starch. • Percentage increment in syneresis and solubility were found in treated taro starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]