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On December 5th, 2022, controlled fusion ignition was demonstrated for the first time at the National Ignition Facility (NIF), a major achievement in the field of Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) requiring a multi-decadal effort involving broad national and international collaborations. To drive the fusion ignition reaction with the compressed fuel capsule, that yielded 3.15 MJ of nuclear energy [ 1 ], the NIF laser delivered a high-precision pulse shape with 2.05 MJ of ultra-violet (UV) laser energy and a peak power of 440 TW. This laser energy was an increase of ∼8 % compared to that delivered on the previous "threshold of ignition" record yield experiment (1.37 MJ of yield for 1.89 MJ of laser energy) on August 8th, 2021 [ 2 ]. We explain how the results of our extensive research in laser technology and UV optics damage mitigation led to major improvements in the NIF laser, enabling this energy increase along with additional accuracy, precision, and power balance enhancements. Furthermore, we will discuss on-going efforts that have enabled operations at 2.2 MJ of UV energy as well as potential new initiatives to push the laser performance –accuracy and delivered energy– to even higher levels in the future as previously demonstrated on a small subset of NIF beams [ 3 ]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epigenetic modification of cancer-related genes plays a role over and above their genetic alterations and contributes to the tumor initiation and progression of breast cancer. Promoter methylation of tumor suppressor genes is one such epigenetic modification, which can be potential biomarker. In this study, promoter methylation status of p16 gene was studied in blood samples of patients with breast carcinoma. Seventy-five patients, freshly diagnosed with carcinoma of breast and 20 age and sex matched healthy control subjects were recruited for the study. DNA extracted from EDTA blood sample was bisulfite converted and subjected to methylation-specific PCR to amplify the p16 promoter region. Out of 75 patients, 25 (33%) patients showed hypermethylation in promoter region of p16 gene, which was statistically significant in comparison with the control group (p < 0.05). In subgroup analysis, lymph node involvement, cancer grade, and histopathological finding did not show any difference with methylation status of p16 promoter. Significant hypermethylation of p16 promoter region in the blood of histopathologically proven cases of breast cancer was observed suggesting promoter hypermethylation of p16 may be a possible mechanism accounting for sporadic carcinoma of breast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bangladeshi ready-made garment (RMG) and textile sectors, technology-driven compliance standards are primarily imported directly from foreign buyers' corporate social responsibility (CSR) where managers do not have enough scope of involvement, engagement, or active authority. They neither have selection freedom nor adoption willingness. The aim of this exploratory research is to understand managers' perceptions around accepting these imposed technology-driven compliance standards in the name of safety through an empirical study of the RMG sector in Bangladesh. We have used the extended framework of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2) model with certain modifications. After analyzing data through structural equation modeling (SEM), a modified theoretical framework was revealed to capture managers' behavioral intention toward a complex technological system that does not automatically arise from self-willingness; rather it is mandatory acceptance. Based on this knowledge, we recommend that the UTAUT2 model be extended and revised to capture this kind of mandatory adoption of technology. The findings of this research can provide deep and effective knowledge and experience to international buyers in the RMG sector, global supply chain members, RMG factory owners, and government policymakers. • Ready-made garments (RMG) sector • RMG contains a complex supply network where foreign buyers impose many new systems • Managers' perception • If a system is imposed without the consent of managers, they may perceive it negatively • UTAUT2 model • This model is used to capture human beings' self-desire to adopt a technological system • Behavioral intention • Behavioral intention to adopt technology is different if the adoption is mandatory • Compliance • Compliances are protocols imposed by foreign buyers to ensure safety in RMG, Bangladesh [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The peritoneum is the largest and most complex serous membrane in the human body. The peritoneal membrane is composed of a layer of mesothelium supported by a thin layer of connective tissue. The peritoneum is one continuous sheet, forming two layers and a potential space between them - the peritoneal cavity- which is subdivided into multiple communicating spaces containing small amount of serous fluid that facilitates frictionless movement of mobile intraabdominal viscera. Peritoneum also contributes to fluid exchange mechanism and plays a role in immune response. The peritoneum is subject to many neoplastic and non-neoplastic processes including infections, trauma, developmental and inflammatory processes. Different Nuclear Medicine imaging techniques can be used to diagnose peritoneal diseases, most of these techniques can be customized depending on the clinical scenario and expected findings. Peritoneal scintigraphy can detect abnormal peritoneal communication or compartmentalization. Several nuclear medicine techniques can help characterize intraperitoneal fluid collections and differentiate sterile from infected fluid. PET imaging plays an important role in imaging of different neoplastic and non-neoplastic peritoneal pathologies. Nuclear radiologists need to be familiar with peritoneal anatomy and pathology to interpret peritoneal findings in dedicated peritoneal nuclear medicine imaging studies, as part of more general nuclear medicine scans, or on CT or MRI component of hybrid imaging studies. The purpose of this article is to review the normal peritoneal anatomy, various pathologic processes involving the peritoneum, and different nuclear medicine and hybrid imaging techniques that can help detect, characterize, and follow up peritoneal pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genotyping by sequencing (GBS) is the recent approach of next-generation sequencing technique for discovering and genotyping single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in crop species. Genotypic variation studies (SNPs and insertion-deletions/InDels) were performed using four rice lines based on GBS data by aligning to the reference genome Nipponbare. Local aromatic rice landrace Tulaipanji was crossed with Ranjit, and two distinct lines were identified from the progenies: one line with awns and aroma traits and the other without awns and aroma. Total number of SNPs and InDels identified were 52 810 and 4 327 at read depth 10, respectively. Out of the total polymorphic SNPs/InDels, 16 490 were intergeneric, 7 812 were inside gene, and 4 435 were intronic. Phylogenetically, Tulaipanji was closer to the reference genome nipponbare. Based on recurrent parent genome analysis, out of 10 013 alleles, 92.52% was introgressed into progeny-awn from Tulaipanji and 7.48% from Ranjit, whereas progeny-awnless carried 89.19% alleles from Ranjit and only 10.81% alleles from Tulaipanji. In addition, progeny-awn was the highest heterozygous (83.88%) and progeny-awnless was the least (2.24%) at this fifth generation of recombinant inbred lines. These SNP variations may be linked to the phenotypic traits and can be utilized in crop improvement through linkage mapping. These results suggest that adding a high density of SNP markers to a mapping or breeding population through GBS has a great value for numerous applications in rice breeding and genetics research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To systematically evaluate existing evidence from published systematic reviews of clinical trials for the effectiveness of rehabilitation for improving function and participation in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Data Sources A literature search was conducted using medical and health science electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, Cochrane Library) up to January 31, 2016. Study Selection Two reviewers independently applied inclusion criteria to select potential systematic reviews assessing the effectiveness of organized rehabilitation for persons with MS. Data were summarized for type of interventions, type of study designs included, outcome domains, method of data synthesis, and findings. Data Extraction Data were extracted by 2 reviewers independently for methodological quality using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews. Quality of evidence was critically appraised with the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation. Data Synthesis Thirty-nine systematic reviews (one with 2 reports) evaluated best evidence to date. There is “strong” evidence for physical therapy for improved activity and participation, and for exercise-based educational programs for the reduction of patient-reported fatigue. There is “moderate” evidence for multidisciplinary rehabilitation for longer-term gains at the levels of activity (disability) and participation, for cognitive-behavior therapy for the treatment of depression, and for information-provision interventions for improved patient knowledge. There is “limited” evidence for better patient outcomes using psychological and symptom management programs (fatigue, spasticity). For other rehabilitation interventions, the evidence is inconclusive because of limited methodologically robust studies. Conclusions Despite the range of rehabilitative treatments available for MS, there is a lack of high-quality evidence for many modalities. Further research is needed for effective rehabilitation approaches with appropriate study design, outcome measurement, type and intensity of modalities, and cost-effectiveness of these interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is well tolerated, inexpensive, and readily available, but can it be used to detect with clinical precision aberrant changes in the proportion of fat mass to fat-free mass during weight loss? Objectives To assess the variance in percentage body fat mass explained by the readily available inputs and assess residual variance provided by leg-to-leg BIA scales. Methods Using cross-sectional data from a cohort of 665 patients of Indian ethnicity presenting for bariatric surgery, we examine the determinants of percentage body fat as provided by leg-to-leg output from Tanita SC-330 BIA scales. Results Four input factors—sex, weight, height, and age—contributed to provide 92% and 95% explanation in output variance for percentage fat mass (%FM) and actual fat mass, respectively, in 665 patients. Body mass index alone explained 89% and 81% of variance in %FM output for women and men, respectively. Neither weight distribution, as indicated by waist and hip circumference or waist to hip ratio, nor plasma lipids or markers of glucose metabolism contributed additional variance in %FM when controlled for the 4 key inputs. Conclusions Simple, known input variables dominate the leg-to-leg BIA output of %FM, and this may compromise the detection of aberrant changes in %FM and fat-free mass with substantial weight loss. For clinical research, validated methods not largely dependent on known inputs should be used for evaluating changes in body composition after substantial weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of Boron (B) supplementation on immune and antioxidant status of rats with or without abiotic stress induced by dietary calcium (Ca) restriction was studied in a feeding trial of 90 days. Wistar strain rats (3–4 wk age, n = 84) were divided into 7 dietary groups (4 replicates of 3 each) viz., normal-calcium (100%) basal diet alone (NC, control) or supplemented with B at 5 (NCB-5), 10 (NCB-10), 20 (NCB-20) and 40 ppm (NCB-40) levels; low-calcium (50%) basal diet alone (LC) or supplemented with 40 ppm B (LCB-40). After 75 days of experimental feeding, rats were challenged with intraperitoneal injection of sheep RBCs to assess their humoral immunity. At the end of the trial, cell-mediated immunity was assessed as foot pad reaction to sheep RBCs injected into the hind leg paws. Eight rats from each group were sacrificed to collect blood for estimation of minerals and total antioxidant activity, and liver for superoxide dismutase gene expression analysis. Supplementation of graded levels of B (5, 10, 20 and 40 ppm) as borax in NC diets significantly increased (P < 0.01) the footpad thickness and serum total antioxidant activity, hepatic expression levels of both Cu-Zn SOD (SOD1) and Mn-SOD (SOD2) mRNAs. The erythrocytic SOD activity and humoral response did not differ significantly among the dietary groups. In Ca restricted groups, humoral immune response was significantly decreased (P < 0.01) compared to control but increased (P < 0.05) with 40 ppm B supplementation. Serum levels of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) remained similar among the dietary groups, while the manganese (Mn) content was significantly decreased (P < 0.01) with increased levels of dietary B. In conclusion, B supplementation increased the hepatic mRNA expression levels of both SOD isoenzymes, thereby improving the immune and antioxidant status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The defective responsiveness of body tissues to insulin involves the insulin receptors of cell membranes. The binding of insulin to its receptor induce an increase of high affinity glucose transporter molecules in target cell surface that enhance the uptake of glucose in to these cells. The WHO expert committee recommended the importance to investigate the hypoglycemic agents from plant origin, which are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Stevioside, a natural sweetener and a diterpene glycoside extracted from Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) has been used as an anti-hyperglycemic agent for the treatment of diabetes for decades.Hypothesis: To reveal the molecular mechanism underlying the insulinomimetic activity of stevioside and its aglycone metabolite, steviol using cell line models.Study Design: Efficacy of stevioside and steviol in inducing glucose absorption was studied at transcript level, protein level and by measuring glucose absorption in the cell using in-vitro cell line studies.Method: Quantification of glucose transporter (GLUT4) transcript was done in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and L6 myotubes by qPCR using RPL23 as the internal control. GLUT4 protein was quantified using anti GLUT4 antibody by ELISA and radioactive glucose uptake studies were done to measure the rate of glucose absorption.Results: The absolute and relative quantitation of GLUT4 gene by qPCR showed the activation of GLUT4 transcript at lower concentration of steviol (1 µM) and higher concentration of stevioside (100 µM) in both L6 myotubes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The increased level of glut4 protein and the glucose uptake in both the cell lines using the same concentration of steviol and stevioside further supports the qPCR data. The copy number and the expression level of GLUT4 gene, the amount of GLUT4 protein and the glucose uptake efficacy support the insulinomimetic effect of steviol and stevioside.Conclusion: The results of the study clearly demonstrate the functional similarity of steviol and stevioside with that of insulin in controlling the level of glucose in both the cell lines. In other words, the insulinomimetic property of stevioside and steviol was evident from the data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To present an evidence-based overview of the effectiveness of medical rehabilitation intervention in natural disaster survivors and outcomes that are affected. Data Sources A literature search was conducted using medical and health science electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO) up to September 2014. Study Selection Two independent reviewers selected studies reporting outcomes for natural disaster survivors after medical rehabilitation that addressed functional restoration and participation. Data Extraction Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the methodologic quality of the studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program's appraisal tools. Data Synthesis A meta-analysis was not possible because of heterogeneity among included trials; therefore, a narrative analysis was performed for best evidence synthesis. Ten studies (2 randomized controlled trials, 8 observational studies) investigated a variety of medical rehabilitation interventions for natural disaster survivors to evaluate best evidence to date. The interventions ranged from comprehensive multidisciplinary rehabilitation to community educational programs. Studies scored low on quality assessment because of methodologic limitations. The findings suggest some evidence for the effectiveness of inpatient rehabilitation in reducing disability and improving participation and quality of life and for community-based rehabilitation for participation. There were no data available for associated costs. Conclusions The findings highlight the need to incorporate medical rehabilitation into response planning and disaster management for future natural catastrophes. Access to rehabilitation and investment in sustainable infrastructure and education are crucial. More methodologically robust studies are needed to build evidence for rehabilitation programs, cost-effectiveness, and outcome measurement in such settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simple experimental strategy for enhancing the figure-of-merit (ZT) of thermoelectric materials by introducing different kinds of defect features, including nano-porosity, in a range of nano to meso-scale dimensions, employing spark plasma assisted (SPS) reaction sintering of mechanically alloyed nanopowders. This strategy has been experimentally demonstrated in a well known thermoelectric compound, Cu 2 Se, which is shown to yield a high ZT of 2.1 at 973 K, which is among the highest reported value for this material and shows ~40% increase over its bulk melt-processed counterpart. The main contribution to the enhanced ZT, despite moderate values of power factor, primarily originates from a very small value of thermal conductivity of 0.34 W m −1 K −1 . This low thermal conductivity owes its origin primarily to the enhanced low-to-high wavelength phonon scattering by different kinds of defects, in a wide spectrum of nano to meso-scale dimensions, involving microstructural defects generated during high-energy ball milling, abundant nanocrystalline grain boundaries due to very low crystallite size, and more importantly the nano-to-meso scale residual porosity created due to SPS at optimized process parameters. The role of SPS in enhancing the ZT has been discussed and this strategy can also be applied to other thermoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple myeloma is a heterogeneous hematologic disorder of plasma cells with varied bone marrow imaging appearances. With advancements in both treatment and use of advanced imaging over the last several decades, it is important for radiologists to recognize the imaging presentation of the disease and the staging implications of imaging. This paper reviews the staging as it relates to imaging, consensus recommendations for imaging, expected imaging appearances of myeloma, pitfalls, and complications associated with treatment that are demonstrable on imaging. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Our objective was to evaluate the long-term results of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on excess weight loss, remission of the metabolic syndrome, and complications in Indian patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with a body mass index of 30–35 kg/m2. The setting was a corporate hospital in Mumbai, India. Methods: The present prospective observational study was begun in January 2006. A total of 52 patients with uncontrolled T2DM and a body mass index of 30–35 kg/m2 elected to undergo laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The duration of T2DM was 3.5–14.5 years (median 8.4). Of the 52 patients, 61.5% had hypertension and 59.6% had dyslipidemia. Remission of T2DM and other components of the metabolic syndrome were assessed. All patients were followed up for 5 years. Results: The median percentage of excess weight loss was 72.2% at 1 year and 67.8% at 5 years. Of the 52 patients, 84.6% had achieved euglycemia and 73.1% had achieved complete remission, 23.1% partial remission, and 3.84% no remission at 1 year. Weight regain occurred in 8 patients. They required antihypertensive drugs and statins, decreasing the complete remission rate to 57.7% and partial remission rate to 38.5% at 5 years. However, 96.2% improvement in metabolic status was found at the end of 5 years. Conclusion: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a safe, efficacious, and cost-effective treatment for uncontrolled T2DM in patients with a body mass index of 30–35 kg/m2. Early-onset T2DM, better weight loss, and greater C-peptide levels were predictors of success after surgery. The improvement after surgery in hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemia could help in controlling the occurrence of micro- and macrovascular complications and decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with T2DM. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to examine factors impacting long-term functional outcomes and psychological sequelae in survivors of breast cancer (BC). A clinical assessment and structured interview assessed the impact of BC on participants’ (n = 85) current activity and restriction in participation, using validated questionnaires: Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Perceived Impact Problem Profile (PIPP) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS). Participants showed good functional recovery (median motor FIM score = 78). Three-quarters (74%) reported pain, 32% reported upper limb weakness, 31% pain limiting shoulder movement and 29% lymphoedema. One third (32%) reported greatest impact on psychological wellbeing. A substantial number of participants reported high levels of depression (22%), anxiety and stress (19% each). Factors associated with poorer current level of functioning and wellbeing included: younger participants, recent diagnoses, aggressive tumour types, receiving chemotherapy, shoulder limitation due to pain, and lymphoedema. BC survivors require long-term management of psychological sequelae impacting activity and participation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The incidence of neurological diseases of unknown etiology is increasing, including well-studied diseases such as Alzhiemer''s, Parkinson''s, and multiple sclerosis. The blood-brain barrier provides protection for the brain but also hinders the treatment and diagnosis of these neurological diseases, because the drugs must cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the lesions. Thus, attention has turned to developing novel and effective delivery systems that are capable of carrying drug and that provide good bioavailability in the brain. Nanoneurotechnology, particularly application of nanoparticles in drug delivery, has provided promising answers to some of these issues in recent years. Here we review the recent advances in the understanding of several common forms of neurological diseases and particularly the applications of nanoparticles to treat and diagnose them. In addition, we discuss the integration of bioinformatics and modern genomic approaches in the development of nanoparticles. From the Clinical Editor: In this review paper, applications of nanotechnology-based diagnostic methods and therapeutic modalities are discussed addressing a variety of neurological disorders, with special attention to blood-brain barrier delivery methods. These novel nanomedicine approaches are expected to revolutionize several aspects of clinical neurology. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Integrated systems thinking for climate and circular economy nexus problem. • Industrial wastes can be used to achieve carbon drawdown via enhanced weathering. • A source-sink model for large-scale implementation of enhanced weathering. • A regional case study in china demonstrates the carbon drawdown potential. Countries around the world are taking active efforts to address the current climate crisis. Negative emissions technologies (NET) such as enhanced weathering will play a significant role in these efforts in the coming decades. Enhanced weathering is based on the terrestrial application of powdered natural or synthetic silicate minerals to remove carbon dioxide (CO 2) from the atmosphere. In the latter case, non-hazardous industrial waste (NHIW) can react with water and CO 2 from the atmosphere to achieve carbon drawdown through the acceleration of the naturally occurring weathering process. This approach also addresses the problem of sustainable industrial waste management. Besides, carbon drawdown also enhances soil quality for agricultural application sites. In the future, planning the large-scale implementation of enhanced weathering via carbon management networks can be facilitated by using optimization models. In this work, a source-sink model is developed for the proper allocation of NHIW to application sites. The method is demonstrated with a case study based at Shandong Province, China. Two scenarios are analyzed, with both achieving significant negative CO 2 emissions. The CO 2 sequestration rates for these two scenarios are determined as 12.73 Mt/y and 13.77 Mt/y, respectively. Scenario 1 shows that the system can achieve negative CO 2 emissions at a cost of $ 184.25/t CO 2 , which is comparable to previously reported cost estimates. Given the necessary input data, the model can be used to generate case-specific estimates for any country. The increasing use of clean energy in the transport and crushing process will enhance CO 2 sequestration of the system. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Non compliance is a multidimentional phenomenon Severe Mental Disorder. • Non compliance remains a public health problem despite advanced treatment and interventions. • We report a case of psychosis and multiple disease relapses due to eratic drug compliance. • Case demonstrate how compliance can be improved for the same drug regimen with a simple video based intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• COVID-19 Pandemic has heralded a wave of mental health concerns. • Using technology optimally is one way of cutting across barriers to reach out to distressed individuals. • Psychological First Aid can be provided via tele-mental health services. • This is the first attempt at addressing psychosocial needs of the general population in the times of COVID-19 by providing psychosocial support using the means of a tele-helpline Novel Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID 19) pandemic has affected more than 2 million individuals and causing over 0.1 million deaths worldwide. In India, the pandemic has gained momentum in the last few weeks with over 10,000 cases and 400 deaths. In the absence of any pharmacological cure on the horizon, countries have resorted to the use of strict public health measures to curtail spread of further infection to fight the coronavirus. The pandemic and its social implications have triggered mental health concerns among the masses. Providing psychological first aid and psychosocial support is vital in mitigating the distress and enhance the coping strategies of people to deal with this biological disaster. Tele-mental health services play an important role in this regard. In this article we describe our preliminary experience in understanding the psychological concerns of general public and addressing them by providing psychological support through a national telephonic helpline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Orofacial space infections are common presentations in maxillofacial clinics even in the post-antibiotic era. One of the main factors determining the spread of infection is the host defense mechanism. Diabetes is one of the most common systemic illness suppressing the immunity of an individual and increasing their susceptibility to infections. This study was carried out to compare the spaces involved, the severity of infection, the virulent organism, the efficacy of empirical antibiotics, the length of hospital stay, and the complications encountered in the management of maxillofacial space infection of odontogenic origin in diabetic patients as compared with nondiabetic patients. Methodology: A 4-year prospective study was carried out on patients with maxillofacial space infection of odontogenic origin. The patients were divided into 2 groups on the basis of presence or absence of diabetes. Results: A total of 111 patients were identified out of which 31 were diabetic. The organisms commonly isolated were Streptococcus species with submandibular space being the most common space involved in both the groups. The empirical antibiotic used was amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid combined with metrogyl in 70.27% cases. Conclusion: Streptococcus species is still the most common causative pathogen irrespective of the diabetic status of the patient. The same empirical antibiotic therapy of amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid combined with metrogyl along with hyperglycemia control and surgical drainage of infection yielded satisfactory resolution of infection in the diabetic patients as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]