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Background: Folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies in pregnant women are associated with increased risk for adverse maternal and infant health outcomes, including neural tube defects (NTDs). Methods: A population‐based cross‐sectional survey was conducted in two rural areas in Ambala District, Haryana, India in 2017 to assess baseline folate and vitamin B12 status among women of reproductive age (WRA) and predict the prevalence of NTDs. We calculated the prevalence of folate and vitamin B12 deficiency and insufficiency by demographic characteristics among 775 non‐pregnant, non‐lactating WRA (18–49 years). Using red blood cell (RBC) folate distributions and an established Bayesian model, we predicted NTD prevalence. All analyses were conducted using SAS‐callable SUDAAN Version 11.0.4 to account for complex survey design. Results: Among WRA, 10.1% (95% CI: 7.9, 12.7) and 9.3% (95% CI: 7.4, 11.6) had serum (<7 nmol/L) and RBC folate (<305 nmol/L) deficiency, respectively. The prevalence of RBC folate insufficiency (<748 nmol/L) was 78.3% (95% CI: 75.0, 81.3) and the predicted NTD prevalence was 21.0 (95% uncertainly interval: 16.9, 25.9) per 10,000 live births. Prevalences of vitamin B12 deficiency (<200 pg/mL) and marginal deficiency (≥200 pg/mL and ≤300 pg/mL) were 57.7% (95% CI: 53.9, 61.4) and 23.5% (95% CI: 20.4, 26.9), respectively. Conclusions: The magnitude of folate insufficiency and vitamin B12 deficiency in this Northern Indian population is a substantial public health concern. The findings from the survey help establish the baseline against which results from future post‐fortification surveys can be compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astroblastoma is an uncommon circumscribed glial tumor mostly involving the cerebral hemisphere. The characteristic molecular alteration is meningioma (disrupted in balanced translocation) 1 (MN1) rearrangement. No definite World Health Organization grade has been assigned as both low‐ and high‐grade tumors are known to occur. Tumors in the spine are extremely rare; to date only three cases have been reported in the literature. A vigilant microscopy and ancillary testing aid in diagnosis when the tumors present in unusual locations, as in our case. The prompt differentiation of this tumor from its mimickers is a mandate as modalities of management are different and not clearly established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was done to know the In-vitro efficacy of Psidium guajava leaves against subclinical mastitis causing organisms namely S. aureus and E. coli. Total 200 cases of sub-clinical mastitis in buffaloes were screened from October 2020 to June 2021 in Ayodhya and Sultanpur districts of Uttar Pradesh by using California Mastitis Test (CMT) and White Side Test (WST). In-vitro efficacy of Psidium guajava extracts - Hydro/Aqueous (H), Methanolic (M) and Hydro-Methanolic (HM) extracts were studied by using disc diffusion sensitivity test and observed no inhibition zone for Hydro/Aqueous extract at any concentration for any bacteria. Hydro-Methanolic extract at 300 mg/ml concentration revealed inhibition zone against S. aureus only. Inhibition Zones for Methanolic extracts at 200 mg/ml, 250 mg/ml and 300 mg/ml were seen against S. aureus, maximum zone was obtained at 300 mg/ml and least against 200 mg/ml concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen synthesis has attracted researchers due to energy resource applications. Non‐renewable energy sources have been found to be incapable of meeting energy demands. Therefore, the need of the hour is to introduce an alternative to produce an efficient amount of H2. This review has summarized and investigated hetero‐catalysts and their hydrogen production potential under different light illuminations. Here, the syntheses of various nanoparticles (NPs) and composite semiconductors have been reviewed, and insights into the enhanced ability of noble‐free metal electrocatalysts have been provided. Specific nanomaterials, such as nickel, ruthenium, silver, boron‐doped SnO2, AgVO3, cobalt‐ferrite, and cobalt, dominate in synthesizing durable electrocatalysts. These exhibit Schottky junctions and enhance catalytic behaviour for hydrogen production. Finally, the challenges of the nanoparticle's structural and conductive properties and critical solutions are discussed. This review discusses mechanistic insights, interactions, and kinetics that involve a higher H2 synthesis rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Optimum planting date and appropriate fertilizer module are essential facets of chrysanthemum cultivation, to enhance quality yield, and improve soil health. A field-based study was undertaken over multiple growing seasons in 2022 and 2023, where six different planting dates, viz., P1:June 15, P2:June 30, P3:July 15, P4:July 30, P5:August 15 and P6:August 30 and two fertilizer modules, FM1:Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant−1 and FM2:NPK @ 30 g m−2 were systematically examined using a Randomized Block Design (factorial), replicated thrice. Results: P6 planting resulted in early bud formation (44.03 days) and harvesting stage (90.78 days). Maximum plant height (79.44 cm), plant spread (34.04 cm), cut stem length (68.40 cm), flower diameter (7.83 cm), stem strength (19.38˚), vase life (14.90 days), flowering duration (24.08 days), available soil N (314 kg ha−1), available P (37 kg ha−1), available K (347 kg ha−1), bacterial count (124.87 × 107 cfu g−1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.72 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), fungal count (30.95 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), microbial biomass (48.79 µg g−1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.64 mg TPF h−1 g−1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (23.79 mol PNP h−1 g−1 soil) was recorded in P1 planting. Among the fertilization module, minimum days to bud formation (74.94 days) and days to reach the harvesting stage (120.95 days) were recorded with the application of NPK @30 g m−2. However, maximum plant height (60.62 cm), plant spread (23.10 cm), number of cut stems m−2 (43.88), cut stem length (51.34 cm), flower diameter (6.92 cm), stem strength (21.24˚), flowering duration (21.75 days), available soil N (317 kg ha−1), available P (37 kg ha−1) and available K (349 kg ha−1) were also recorded with the application of NPK @300 kg ha−1. Maximum vase life (13.87 days), OC (1.13%), bacterial count (131.65 × 107 cfu g−1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.89 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), fungal count (31.11 × 102 cfu g−1 soil), microbial biomass (51.27 µg g−1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.77 mg TPF h−1 g−1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (21.72 mol PNP h−1 g−1 soil) were observed with the application of Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant−1. Conclusion: Early planting (P1) and inorganic fertilization (NPK @ 30 g m−2) resulted in improved yield and soil macronutrient content. The soil microbial population and enzymatic activity were improved with the jeevamrit application. This approach highlights the potential for improved yield and soil health in chrysanthemum cultivation, promoting a more eco-friendly and economically viable agricultural model. [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]

The paper deals with the stochastic analysis of a two identical unit cold standby system model. As soon as a unit fails it is attended first by assistant repairman, who completes its repair to make it as good as new with fixed known probability p. Otherwise, with probability q( =1-p), the unit repaired by assistant repairman goes to expert repairman so as to make it as good as new. Both the repairmen are always available with the system and they work their jobs simultaneously. The failure time and repair time by assistant repairman are correlated random variables having their joint distribution as Bivariate exponential. Various measures of system effectiveness useful to system designers and operation managers are obtained by using regenerative point technique. The MTSF and steady state profit have also been studied through graphs in respect of parameter alpha for three different values of repair rate by expert repairman and two different values of correlation coefficient between failure and repair times and important conclusions are drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted to correlate clinically, radiologically, and pathologically the mandibular invasion in carcinoma bucco-alveolar complex. All biopsy-proven oral cavity cancer cases (64 patients) were assessed clinically and radiologically for involvement of the mandible. Preoperative clinicoradiological findings were compared with postoperative histopathological findings. In our study, oral cancer was 4 times more prevalent in males as compared to females and clinical evaluation was found to be highly sensitive in predicting mandibular invasion. Orthopantomogram showed sensitivity of 66.6% and specificity of 100%. CT scan showed sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 46% whereas MRI showed sensitivity of 54.5% and a specificity of 96%. MRI correlates well with final histopathology in predicting size of tumor. Prevalence of bony invasion in carcinoma oral cavity was 18%. We noted an inverse relation with tumor differentiation and mandibular invasion, and none of the verrucous carcinoma lesions showed mandibular invasion. Association of clinical T and N staging with postoperative histopathology was found to be statistically significant. Despite recent advances in molecular biology, radiological techniques, and newer modalities like visual surgical planning, exact measurement of bone invasion is still challenging. At present, CT scan and MRI along with clinical evaluation are widely used to evaluate mandibular invasion in carcinoma oral cavity, and all these are complementary to each other. The recent progress in tissue engineering technologies and stem cell biology has significantly promoted the development of regenerative reconstruction of jawbone defects. [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]

In the present study, ternary hydroxyapatite (HA)-Al2O3-TiO2 nanocomposite coating and HA nano-coating have been developed on Mg alloy by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method for temporary bioimplant application. Following this, a post-heat-treatment has been done at 250 °C for 2 h. Detailed microstructural studies indicate uniform deposition of coating with the presence of porosities (area fraction-16%), agglomerated particles of size range 0.3-1.8 μm and micro-cracks in composite coating. However, in HA-coated samples, the presence of porosities (area fraction-25%) and particles of size range 0.2-1.4 μm are observed. The phase evaluation shows the presence of HA, Al2O3, TiO2, and Mg phases in the composite coating, whereas presence of HA and Mg phases in HA coating. The residual stress is tensile in nature with a value 88 MPa for composite coating and compressive in nature with a value − 82 MPa for HA coating. The hydrophilicity increases after applying the coating in terms of a decrease in contact angle from 66° for as received Mg alloy to 20-42°, where 42° for HA coating and 20° for composite coating. Corrosion studies reveal that the corrosion potential (Ecorr) of composite coating is marginally shifted toward the negative direction (− 1.3 V(SCE)) as compared to HA coating (− 1.2 V(SCE)). The corrosion rate decreases from 399 mpy for HA coating to 88 mpy for composite coating. [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]

Background: Organomodified nanoclays (ONC), two-dimensional montmorillonite with organic coatings, are increasingly used to improve nanocomposite properties. However, little is known about pulmonary health risks along the nanoclay life cycle even with increased evidence of airborne particulate exposures in occupational environments. Recently, oropharyngeal aspiration exposure to pre- and post-incinerated ONC in mice caused low grade, persistent lung inflammation with a pro-fibrotic signaling response with unknown mode(s) of action. We hypothesized that the organic coating presence and incineration status of nanoclays determine the inflammatory cytokine secretary profile and cytotoxic response of macrophages. To test this hypothesis differentiated human macrophages (THP-1) were acutely exposed (0–20 µg/cm2) to pristine, uncoated nanoclay (CloisNa), an ONC (Clois30B), their incinerated byproducts (I-CloisNa and I-Clois30B), and crystalline silica (CS) followed by cytotoxicity and inflammatory endpoints. Macrophages were co-exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or LPS-free medium to assess the role of priming the NF-κB pathway in macrophage response to nanoclay treatment. Data were compared to inflammatory responses in male C57Bl/6J mice following 30 and 300 µg/mouse aspiration exposure to the same particles. Results: In LPS-free media, CloisNa exposure caused mitochondrial depolarization while Clois30B exposure caused reduced macrophage viability, greater cytotoxicity, and significant damage-associated molecular patterns (IL-1α and ATP) release compared to CloisNa and unexposed controls. LPS priming with low CloisNa doses caused elevated cathepsin B/Caspage-1/IL-1β release while higher doses resulted in apoptosis. Clois30B exposure caused dose-dependent THP-1 cell pyroptosis evidenced by Cathepsin B and IL-1β release and Gasdermin D cleavage. Incineration ablated the cytotoxic and inflammatory effects of Clois30B while I-CloisNa still retained some mild inflammatory potential. Comparative analyses suggested that in vitro macrophage cell viability, inflammasome endpoints, and pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles significantly correlated to mouse bronchioalveolar lavage inflammation metrics including inflammatory cell recruitment. Conclusions: Presence of organic coating and incineration status influenced inflammatory and cytotoxic responses following exposure to human macrophages. Clois30B, with a quaternary ammonium tallow coating, induced a robust cell membrane damage and pyroptosis effect which was eliminated after incineration. Conversely, incinerated nanoclay exposure primarily caused elevated inflammatory cytokine release from THP-1 cells. Collectively, pre-incinerated nanoclay displayed interaction with macrophage membrane components (molecular initiating event), increased pro-inflammatory mediators, and increased inflammatory cell recruitment (two key events) in the lung fibrosis adverse outcome pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Rare disease Background: Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (SHML), Rosai-Dorfman disease, or Rosai-Dorfman-Destombes disease (RDD), is a rare non-Langerhans cell of unknown etiology. This report is of a case of isolated SHML, or Rosai-Dorfman disease, presenting as a right atrial mass with involvement of the tricuspid valve in a 54-yearold woman. This case shows the challenges of diagnosing this condition in the heart and the challenges of treating this rare disease with the limited information on the efficacy of the treatment modalities. Case Report: A 54-year-old Asian woman presented to the Emergency Department with chest and right upper quadrant pain. Transthoracic echocardiogram and computed tomography angiography showed a right atrium mass at the level of the tricuspid valve, causing moderate-severe regurgitation. Partial tumor debulking with biopsies later showed pink-yellow soft tissue, with histopathology showing histiocytes demonstrating emperipolesis. The tumor was positive for CD68 and S100 and negative for CD1a, consistent with Rosai-Dorfman disease. Subsequently the patient received targeted therapy with cobimetinib, without worsening cardiac function or disease progression. Conclusions: This case highlights the challenging histopathological diagnosis of SHML, or Rosai-Dorfman disease, particularly in non-lymphoid tissue, such as the heart. Obtaining tissue for diagnosis can be challenging in this organ. Treatment is challenging when the mass cannot be extracted completely, like in our case, because other forms of therapies are not well studied and warrant further investigation, such as cobimetinib, which is a MEK pathway inhibitor approved in 2022 by the US Food and Drug Administration for histiocytic neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open banking is an emerging and evolving concept, it brings both opportunities and challenges to banks. Despite its anticipated transformative role in changing the financial services landscape and delivering superior value to the customers, the concept has been under-examined in the academic community. This study synthesizes existing research on Open Banking and its emerging role. It employs scientometric technique with underlying statistical analysis tools to review the existing literature in this field. The data from 415 documents was scrutinized for this study. We analysed the existing literature to present to research community the following aspects; the research trends, key themes, related keywords and future research directions. The scientometric analysis revealed aspects related to authors' analysis, source analysis, author co-operation network across countries, keyword analysis and topic modeling. This paper contributes to literature by collating and analysing the existing research available in the field of open banking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most commonly encountered emergencies in neurosurgery practice. Burr hole with drainage of hematoma has been a time-tested standard treatment with good results and in itself a simple procedure to relieve patient clinical status. However, apparently simple surgery may at times have an unexpected surgical outcome of bilateral vision loss. All bilateral CSDHs should be treated diligently with early recognition of any visual deterioration in post-operative phase if any and due to possible interventions to be offered to the patients for prevention of permanent vision loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Solitary fibrous tumors (SFT) are the rare mesenchymal tumors originally described in the pleura. SFT of breast is even rarer and to the best of our knowledge about 35 cases are reported to date, including only six malignant SFT cases. Case presentation: We report a case of a 52-year-old lady with a large left breast mass involving all the quadrants. The tumor was diagnosed as malignant SFT in a core needle biopsy which was later confirmed on the resection specimen. Conclusion: Herein, we describe the approach and importance of optimal utilization of immunohistochemistry for diagnosing such rare tumors of the breast, particularly, when clinical presentation, radiology and fine needle aspiration cytology are incongruous. [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]

Introduction: Color stability and surface roughness are important factors affecting the longevity of any restorative material, as a rough surface structure can lead to staining and discoloration. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of application of two over-the-counter whitening toothpastes (Colgate Optic White and Close-up) on the color stability of different esthetic restorative materials (resin composite and conventional glass-ionomer). Materials and Methods: Using Mylar strips, 120 specimens were created from each restorative material (resin composite and conventional glass-ionomer). Baseline color measurement was done. This was followed by brushing the specimens according to the groups were brushed with the different whitening toothpastes. Before measuring color, the samples were washed. Results: A significant color change was observed between the two restorative materials. The color change was significantly higher with Colgate Optic White than Close-up toothpaste. Furthermore, composite material showed higher color stability than glass-ionomer cement (GIC). Conclusion: When used for 2 min twice day for 15 days, the whitening toothpastes Colgate Optic White and Close UP do create noticeable changes in the color. Furthermore, composites showed higher favorability for color stability than GIC. [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]

Giant Cell Tumors of the skull are rare and mostly occur in the middle cranial fossa. Radiological investigations serve as adjunct modalities; however, histopathological confirmation is mandatory. Ten to forty% of GCTs may be recurrent. Complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice, however, partial resection with adjuvant radiotherapy can serve as a secondary alternative. Recurrent cases require post-op radiotherapy. Here, we describe a case of recurrent giant cell tumor of sphenoid bone in a young male, who underwent surgical resection twice, after which he was advised adjuvant radiotherapy and denosumab. The patient did not take radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the genome of temperate isolate of Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV-IND-K) from Kashmir, India, was analyzed and compared with other Helicoverpa NPV genomes with the logic to determine the effect of the geographic difference at the genomic level. The HearNPV-IND-K genome has a size of 129 234 bp, and GC ratio of 38.9%, and 137 protein-coding genes. The genome has three baculovirus repeat origin (bro-a, bro-b, and bro-c) genes and five homologous repeat regions (hr). According to the phylogenetic tree analysis, it showed 92% similarity to the HaSNPV-L1 isolate from Ludhiana, India having tropical climate. It has been determined that there are significant differences between the genomes of these two HearNPV isolates from different geographical regions of the same country. While there are 137 genes in the HearNPV-IND-K genome, it is quite remarkable that there are 113 genes in the HaSNPV-L1 genome. Interestingly, 111 genes are shared among the genomes and the HearNPV-IND-K genome has a unique hypothetical gene (ORF 77). The bro-a and bro-b genes are relatively short (89 aa, 144 aa) in the HearNPV-IND-K genome and do not have the bro-d gene. Further, all hr regions have different lengths between the two genomes. In the HearNPV-IND-K genome, the hr2 region is 211 bp shorter, the hr1 region is 602 bp, the hr3 region is 599 bp, the hr4 region is 294 bp, and the hr5 region is 659 bp longer. Overall, the results revealed that the HearNPV-IND-K has a unique gene and the genomes of the two isolates from the same country vary significantly. It also paved the way for future studies to elucidate the function of the unique hypothetical gene and to investigate the effects of the relatively short bro-a gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Sepsis stands as the primary cause behind intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. The most critical parameters in sepsis management have been shown to be early recognition. Management delays have been associated with increased mortality and morbidity The aim of this study is to study the lactate/albumin (L/A) ratio as prognostic tool for risk stratification in septic patients admitted to ICU. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective observational study was conducted with100 patients. Admitted in ICU with sepsis and septic shock were studied. Serum lactate/albumin ratio was calculated at the time of admission. Apache 2 and SOFA score was calculated at admission. All patients received initial treatment according standard protocol. All patients were followed up till discharge. An adverse outcome in terms of in hospital mortality, length of ICU stays and inotropic support was used in this study. RESULTS: Lactate/albumin ratio >1.5(AUC 0.89) correctly predicted in-hospital mortality among 27% patients with sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 78.6% respectively (p value =0.001). Lactate/albumin ratio <1.50 (AUC 0.73) correctly predicted length of ICU stays <72 hours among 17% patients with sensitivity and specificity of 85% and 58.8% respectively (p value =0.001). Lactate/albumin ratio >1.50 (AUC 0.91) correctly predicted requiring inotropic support among 36% patients with sensitivity and specificity of 83.7% and 89.5% respectively (p value =0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that lactate/albumin ratio was a stronger parameter than lactate, albumin, APACHE score and SOFA alone in predicting mortality, length of ICU stay and requiring noradrenaline inotropic support among sepsis patients in the ICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting the taste of molecules is of critical importance in the food and beverages, flavor, and pharmaceutical industries for the design and screening of new tastants. In this work, we have built deep learning models to classify sweet, bitter, and umami molecules– the three basic tastes whose sensation is mediated by G protein‐coupled receptors. An extensive dataset containing 1466 bitter, 1764 sweet, and 238 umami tastants was curated from existing literature. We analyzed the chemical characteristics of the molecules, with special focus on the presence of different functional groups. A deep neural network model based on molecular descriptors and a graph neural network model were trained for taste prediction. The class imbalance due to fewer umami molecules was tackled using special sampling techniques. Both models show comparable performance during evaluation, but the graph‐based model can learn task‐specific representations from the molecular structure without requiring handcrafted features. We further explain the deep neural network predictions using Shapley additive explanations. Finally, we demonstrated the applicability of the models by screening bitter, sweet, and umami molecules from a large food database. This study develops an in‐silico approach to classify molecules based on their taste by leveraging the recent progress in deep learning, which can serve as a powerful tool for tastant design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we propose Bayes estimators for the parameters of the Predator-Prey model using non-informative priors. The population dynamics are described by a system of functional response of the Stochastic Predator-Prey model. The Bayes estimators and simulated risk of the parameters are obtained under symmetric loss functions. The efficiency of the proposed estimators is compared through simulated risks (average loss over sample space). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Preeclampsia (PE) is a multiorgan disease of pregnant women. The main pathophysiology of PE is a trophoblastic invasion into maternal circulation leading to alterations in circulatory levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), inflammatory markers, and endothelin 1(ET1) levels. Therefore, the present study has explored the role of MMP-9 and ET1 and their association in PE. The advantage of the study is to provide insight into the pathology of PE. These markers may help in the early diagnosis and prognosis of PE. Objective: To investigate MMP-9 gene expression, ET1 level in PE cases and their correlation with blood pressure (BP), gestational age, weight, and height. Methods: The study design was a case–control observational study, which included 70 subjects in each case (PE) and controls (normal pregnant women (NPW)). Whole blood (250 ul) was utilized for RNA extraction (Trizol method) and synthesized cDNA as per manufacturer protocol. MMP-9 gene expression was analyzed by real-time PCR. Serum was utilized for ET1 estimation by sandwich ELISA. Results: The ET1 levels and MMP-9 gene expression were significantly increased in preeclamptic women as compared to controls. There was no significant correlation between MMP-9 gene expression and serum ET1 levels. However, a significant moderate association between systolic BP and diastolic BP with ET1 levels and MMP9 gene expression was seen in both PE and NPW. Conclusion: A significantly increased circulatory concentration of ET1 and MMP-9 gene expression in PE might be used as an early diagnostic as well as a prognostic marker of PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is most common in women of reproductive age, giving rise to androgen excess and anovulation, leading to infertility and non‐reproductive complications. We explored the ameliorating effect of naringenin in PCOS using the Sprague Dawley (SD) rat model and human granulosa cells. Letrozole‐induced PCOS rats were given either naringenin (50 mg/kg/day) alone or in combination with metformin (300 mg/kg/day), followed by the estrous cycle, hormonal analysis, and glucose sensitivity test. To evaluate the effect of naringenin on granulosa cell (hGC) steroidogenesis, we treated cells with naringenin (2.5 μM) alone or in combination with metformin (1 mM) in the presence of forskolin (10 μM). To determine the steroidogenesis of CYP‐17A1, ‐19A1, and 3βHSD2, the protein expression levels were examined. Treatment with naringenin in the PCOS animal groups increased ovulation potential and decreased cystic follicles and levels of androgens. The expression levels of CYP‐17A1, ‐19A1, and 3βHSD2, were seen restored in the ovary of PCOS SD rats' model and in the human ovarian cells in response to the naringenin. We found an increased expression level of phosphorylated‐AKT in the ovary and hGCs by naringenin. Naringenin improves ovulation and suppress androgens and cystic follicles, involving AKT activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areca nut and slaked lime, with or without tobacco wrapped in Piper betle leaf, prepared as betel quid, is extensively consumed as a masticatory product in many countries across the world. Betel Quid can promote the malignant transformation of oral lesions as well as trigger benign cellular and molecular changes. In the oral cavity, it causes changes at the compositional level in oral microbiota called dysbiosis. This dysbiosis may play an important role in Oral Cancer in betel quid chewers. The abnormal presence and increase of bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum, Capnocytophaga gingivalis, Prevotella melaninogenica, Peptostreptococcus sp., Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Streptococcus mitis in saliva and/or other oral sites of the cancer patients has attracted frequent attention for its association with oral cancer development. In the present review, the authors have analysed the literature reports to revisit the oncogenic potential of betel quid and oral microbiome alterations, evaluating the potential of oral microbiota both as a driver and biomarker of oral cancer. The authors have also shared a perspective that the restoration of local microbiota can become a potentially therapeutic or prophylactic strategy for the delay or reversal of lip and oral cavity cancers, especially in high-risk population groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two immiscible liquids are commonly mixed by mechanically dispersing one into the other to form emulsions. Surfactants or emulsifiers confer stability. Mechanical mixing, in practice, is an energy‐intensive shear flow that is ineffective when the ratio of the dispersed‐phase viscosity to the continuous‐phase viscosity exceeds about four. Extensional flows are not subject to this viscosity ratio limit. This superiority of extensional flow was exploited to fabricate a novel, continuous‐flow, cone‐shaped device with an extensional strain of eight to make fine soybean oil‐in‐water emulsions. A spherical insert having a wall clearance of 25 μm was an effective design factor. Starting with 'coarse' 50 wt.% oil emulsions, two stretching episodes were needed for size reduction. The temperature rise was negligible, and the results were independent of the emulsifier type employed. Increasing flow rate and stretching episodes, reducing wall clearance, enhancing emulsifier concentration, and multiple passes through the device gave progressively smaller drops; the volume‐averaged diameter became less than 2 μm, and the number‐averaged diameter reached 0.5 μm, narrowing the size distribution. The emulsions that formed had a high viscosity and were stable. The performance of a scaled‐up device was compared with other mixers. At equivalent energy density and 50 wt.% oil, drop sizes were similar for a valve homogenizer but larger for a rotor‐stator mixer. At 80 wt.% oil, the rotor stator‐mixer again required more energy for the same drop size, but emulsions prepared with the valve homogenizer broke. The findings of this study can help to design industrial‐scale energy‐efficient extensional‐flow dominant devices for the formation of food emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible insects (EI) are also becoming as a part of the diet due to their nutritional value and health benefits in many regions of the world. These EI are inexhaustible sources accessible by garnering from the wild with high feed conversion efficiency. Appreciating the budding of EI in justifiable food production, enlightening food security and biodiversity conversion, is promising a sufficient supply of the insect resource for future food to the world. These insects are processed to develop new products, improve organoleptic and nutritional parameters as well as the extension of shelf life. In this review, we discuss the edible insect characteristics, the potential application of EI in food industry, processing, pretreatments, drying, extraction of edible compounds like protein, lipid and chitin various food products formulation, safety regulation. Availability of broad nutritional spectrum of EI includes protein, mono and poly unsaturaturated fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, amino aids and minerals has been used as an ingredient in development of various forms of food products such as flours in the form of whole insect powder, protein isolate, canned products, extruded products, hard candies, spreads, liquor infusion, cookies and other products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Metal clusters with photoswitching ligands can undergo magnetic changes under light radiation, which makes them potential optical‐response magnetic‐switching materials. Herein, a photoswitchable Mn‐oxo cluster [MnII15MnIII4(L)18(OH)12(N3)6] (ClO4)2 (C6H5CN)8, (Mn19azo, HL=1‐(hydroxymethyl)‐3,5‐dimethyl‐4‐(phenyldiazenyl)‐pyrazole) has been designed and synthesized to realize the photoswitching behavior. Mn19azo shows quick trans‐to‐cis transformation upon 365 nm light irradiation in CH2Cl2 solution and solid state as confirmed by UV‐Vis spectra. After the powder sample was irradiated for 80 min, the Curie constant of Mn19azo increases by about 7%. The change of magnetic properties can be considered as the result of the change of intermolecular interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Automated hematology analyzers have become mainstream of complete blood count (CBC) during the past two decades; they are potential, more accurate to produce results of CBCs. However, often automated analyzers can give false results too, specially, falsely low platelet count due to platelets aggregates, which have to be confirmed on peripheral smears. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of the study was to diagnose thrombocytopenia (TCP) cases and differentiate them from pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP) cases by analyzing platelet histogram and to determine the sensitivity and specificity of platelet histograms for diagnosing TCP and PTCP. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at Shyam Shah Medical College, Rewa, M.P., after obtaining ethical clearance from the Institutional Ethics Committee. It was prospective study conducted for a period of 15 months from January 2021 to May 2022 on 1000 samples. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of platelet histogram flags and presence of multiple peaks to diagnose TCP and PTCP cases were calculated as 73.60% and 93.60%, respectively. The present study also interpret that mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width cannot use as indicator to differentiate between TCP and PTCP. Conclusion: The present study concludes that analysis and interpretation of histogram more specifically platelet histogram flagging provide clue for early detection of PTCP cases prior peripheral smear examination and also helpful in differentiating them from true TCP cases. These platelet histogram flagging can be used as a screening parameter for the detection of PTCP and these are helpful in preventing unnecessary stress for clinician, patients, and their relatives. However, the peripheral smear examination will remain the gold standard to differentiate TCP from, PTCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heating stage in thermoforming of amorphous and semi‐crystalline polymers was analyzed for constant heat flux conditions using an energy balance model; candidate polymers were high impact polystyrene and isotactic polypropylene. Using an analytical solution, temperature differences as large as 100°C were predicted to arise between the surface and the interior of the sheet being thermoformed for conditions chosen in this work, and these can limit the heat flux being used. A Matlab program was used to compute temperature and crystallinity profiles for crystal melting. Melting took almost as much time as required to heat the surface of the film to the crystal melting point. High thermal conductivity additives, such as calcium carbonate and graphene, can provide temperature uniformity, and the additive uniformity can be verified using thermogravimetric analysis. The ability of these additives to provide temperature uniformity and to reduce energy consumption and heating time is determined in a quantitative manner. Both additives improve heat transfer, and, at the same added volume fraction, graphene is more effective. However, calcium carbonate has a lower cost. The role of density, specific heat, thermal conductivity, and amount of the polymers and additives in influencing temperature and crystallinity profiles was explored, and methods of carrying out thermoforming in an energy efficient manner are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergence of antimicrobial resistance in animal husbandry is of utmost concern as it has resulted in therapeutic failure. Recently the incidence of multiple drug resistance in E. coli has been increased worldwide which is associated with various illnesses. In this study total 160 clinical samples comprising 80 mastitic milk and 80 diarrhoeic faecal samples of cattle and buffaloes were collected from Ambedkar Nagar and Barabanki districts. The E. coli isolates were confirmed following standard biochemical tests and PCR analysis using species specific primer which revealed 101 (63.12%) confirmed E. coli isolates. Occurrence of E. coli was observed 45.0%, 82.5% in cattle and 35.0% and 90.0% in buffalo of mastitic milk and diarrhoeic faeces samples respectively. Antimicrobial sensitivity test of confirmed isolates was done to study the resistance pattern which revealed 66.7% to 100% resistance against 3rd generation cephalosporin and 100% sensitivity against aminoglycosides and polypeptides. In this study total 70.29% isolates were identified as MDR, which comprised of 53.12% in mastitis milk and 78.0% in diarrhoeic faecal samples. Maximum 17 isolates showed resistance against 7 antibiotics while 2 isolates showed resistance against 13 antibiotics. This is an alarming situation for human and animal population as agriculture and animal husbandry is main occupation of the residents of this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was done to know the incidence of coccidiosis in naturally affected broiler birds in 10 different farms located in Ayodhya and Sultanpur districts of Uttar Pradesh for six months (October, 2021 to March, 2022). These farms were visited during study period to screen the cases of coccidiosis on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms like marked depression and weakness, decreased feed intake, feed conversion and diarrhoea. Out of total 22600 birds under observation at the ten farms, 7300 were clinically found to be naturally affected with coccidiosis. The overall incidence of the coccidiosis was 30.96%. Out of 5 farms in Ayodhya district, total 11500 birds were under observation, 3781 birds were clinically affected. The overall incidence in Ayodhya district was 31.49%. Out of 5 farms in Sultanpur district, total of 11100 birds were under observation, 3519 birds were clinically affected. The overall incidence in Sultanpur district was 30.43%. In the present study, the overall mortality was 26.74%. The average calculated oocyst index 1.17 μm, length 19.65 μm, width 17.49 μm and morphological features indicated that the measured oocysts were of E. tenella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diarrhoea due to E. coli and Rotavirus is very common in animals including goats especially in kids. The present study was done with aim to explore pathological changes in intestine of goats naturally affected with E. coli and Rotavirus in Eastern plain zone of Uttar Pradesh. The post-mortem examination of dead goats with history of diarrhea was done and intestinal samples were collected and preserved in 10% buffered formalin. Grossly, intestine showed only congestion and mild to moderate haemorrhage. Microscopically intestine revealed desquamation of epithelial cells and necrosis of crypts, villous atrophy, stunting of villi and edema in lamina propria. Moderate to severe infiltration of inflammatory cells in mucosal layer, engorged capillaries in mucosa of duodenum, jejunum and ileum were also seen. In some cases, there were complete architectural loss of mucosal layer. Areas of vacuolar degeneration of epithelial lining at tip of villi were also observed. [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]

Our study shows how the United States government can achieve its goal of Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in 2025, 2030, and 2050 by reducing energy consumption through a pure carbon tax. To achieve its emissions reduction goals, it is necessary for the U.S. to impose a long-term carbon tax that balances taxes on labour, capital, energy, and carbon. Therefore, in this study, through the two-layer CGE Cobb–Douglas model, the carbon tax rate is set while balancing the production and profit functions of government, businesses, and households. This study concludes that the carbon price will increase from USD 0.4391/kg CO2 in 2020 to USD 2.5671/kg CO2 in 2050, when the CO2 emissions reduction target is increased from 17% reduction in 2020 to 83% reduction in 2050 for the U.S. [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]

Background: In 2016, International academy of cytology (IAC) has established a standardized approach for reporting breast fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) by categorizing the lesions in five tier system from C1 to C5 to standardize reporting, which will enhance Breast fine-needle aspiration biopsy cytology performance, interpretation, and reporting. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to categorize FNAC cases according to The IAC Yokohama System and evaluate the diagnostic ability of FNAC. Materials and Methods: The current prospective analytical study was carried out in the Department of Pathology, Shyam Shah Medical College, Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, for a period of 15 months from January 2021 to March 2022 (15 months). A total of 100 cases were included in the study based on inclusion criteria. The results were analyzed based on cytological reporting and P value calculated. Results: Among the 100 cases studied highest number of cases were from the age group of 21–30 years with 29% (n=29). The most common breast laterality affected was left with 69% of affected cases. The maximum number of cases, 69% (n=69) of the total, were found to be categorized under the category C2 (benign) which was followed by Category C5 (Malignant) seen in 13% (n=13). About 9% (n=9) of the total cases were categorized as suspicious of malignancy (C4). Atypical Lesion (C3) and Unsatisfactory Lesions (C1) were categorized in 5% (n=5) and 4% (n=4) of the total cases, respectively. Conclusion: FNAC is a minimally invasive, quick, and efficient pre-operative diagnostic tool that can also be used for postoperative breast lump follow-up to prevent recurrences. FNAC using IAC Yokohama system is a rapid and effective method for the primary categorization of palpable breast lumps and provides better clarity to the clinicians in the management of the patient and can reduce unnecessary surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]