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Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is global health problem. Family members of HBV infected people are considered as high-risk groups due to frequent household transmission of HBV among contacts of HBsAg carriers. The present study aimed to investigate the intrafamilial transmission of HBV among family members of HBV-infected persons and to identify the risk factors for viral transmission in these setting. 361 index cases and their 1083 family contacts were tested for markers of Hepatitis B, viz. HBsAg and HBcAb using commercial ELISA. The demographic details and risk factors for acquiring HBV infection among the family members were recorded using a structured questionnaire. The median (IQR) age of index cases and family members was 37 (27 − 48) and 26 (14 − 38) years, respectively. Among the screened family members, 9.23% (n = 100) members were positive for HBsAg and 32.75% (n = 355) were positive for HBcAb. At least one member of the family was affected in 229/361 (63.43%) index cases. Significantly lower percent of household contacts (9.23%, n = 100)were vaccinated against HBV.HBV transmission risk was significantly higher in families with more than four members(p < 0.0001). Multinomial logistics regression analysis for familial risk factors for transmission of HBV such asclose contact with carrier (aOR overt: 1.172, aOR occult: 1.173), sharing of bed/bedding (aOR overt: 1.258, aOR occult:1.264), personal hygiene items (aOR overt:1.260, aOR occult: 1.451), and eating in common utensils (aOR overt: 2.182, aOR occult: 1.307)were significantly associated with the transmission of HBV (p < 0.05). Close contact with carrier, sharing of bed/bedding or personal hygiene items and eating in common utensils were significantly associated with the transmission of HBV. Increasing awareness about Hepatitis B infection and vaccination of family members in close contact with carrier is essential to prevent Hepatitis B transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex endovascular aortic surgery has been associated with increased fluoroscopic radiation exposure. The radiation dosage necessary for visualization is dependent on the amount of tissue penetration required. Elevation of a patient's arms above their head during endovascular surgery could improve visualization by removing the arms from the field of view. Furthermore, it might reduce the radiation dose required. In the present study, we sought to determine the effect of arm elevation on radiation exposure during endovascular treatment of thoracoabdominal aneurysms. All patients enrolled in a single-institution, physician-sponsored investigational device exemption study for endovascular treatment of thoracoabdominal aneurysms (fenestrated/branched endovascular aortic repair [F/BEVAR]) from 2012 to 2022 were assessed. The first 30 patients treated were excluded to account for the learning curve required with treatment. Patients treated after December 2020 were positioned with their arms elevated above their head using an overhead arm support (OAS). These patients were compared with those who had undergone F/BEVAR before the practice change. The radiation dose, fluoroscopy time, and contrast volume used were compared. A subgroup analysis was performed to assess the effect for patients with brachial access. A total of 145 patients were included in the present study, of whom 43 (30%) had undergone F/BEVAR with their arms supported overhead. No differences were identified in age, body mass index, aneurysm size, or prior aortic intervention between the groups with and without the use of the OAS. A history of dissection (23% vs 7.8%; P =.01) was more frequent for the patients treated with their arms elevated. Arm elevation was associated with a significant reduction in the mean radiation exposure (2261 vs 3100 mGy; P =.01). No differences were observed in the fluoroscopy time or contrast volume used between the two groups. In addition, no patient experienced palsy of the brachial plexus. Of the 145 patients, 55 (38%) had required brachial arterial access, limiting their ability to elevate both arms. In the subgroup analysis, the patients without brachial access continued to show a significant reduction in radiation exposure with arm elevation (2159 vs 3179 mGy; P <.01). Elevation of a patient's arms above their head using an OAS during F/BEVAR offered a low-cost, simple strategy that resulted in a 30% reduction in radiation exposure without added complications. This technique improved visualization and reduced radiation exposure for patients and physicians and should be included in abdominal aortic and visceral procedures work to improve patient and surgeon safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the increasing disaster risks, vulnerability and reduced resilience across Himalayas due to urban sprawling, our study attempts to understand the crucial environmental concerns in the valley town of Dehradun. We assessed the long-term risks due to the rise in population density, changing land use patterns, land surface temperature, groundwater shortage, air pollution concerns, vegetation loss and concretization using remote sensing tools. Results reveal the deleterious impact of urban sprawling affecting different wards of the city, with the burgeoning population pressure in the central part of the city (200 people per hectare (pph)) while, peripheral areas have lesser pressure (4 pph) but projected to rise. Loss of vegetation for development across the city has resulted in insufficient and unequal distribution of green spaces. The builtup area increased from 23.63 to 59.78 % after the city became the state capital has led to the increased heat islands and surface temperature (21.23–25.53 °C). Depleting groundwater levels in erstwhile water sufficient wards of Raipur (01), Shastradhara (02) and Adhoiwala N (28) is alarming. Increasing air pollutants (P.M.10, SO 2 and NO 2) and the risk of urban floods are severe for 10 wards. Dehradun city seems to be at tipping point about to cross its bearing capacity, any additional pressure may have serious repercussions for city residents. City municipal corporation along with diverse stakeholder groups need to mainstream Nature based Solutions, designing and implementing ward specific customized solutions for addressing societal challenges according to Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the UN SDG 11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Medical imaging is essential to the medical profession because it gives physicians access to crucial data on interior body structures for clinical analysis and treatment decisions that help them identify and cure a wide range of illnesses. • A significant collection of medical photos has been created as a result of the rapid increase in medical diagnoses, yet it can be difficult to locate similar medical images within such a large database. • The aim of this approach is to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of CBMIR by utilizing the power of deep learning and advanced optimization techniques. Medical imaging is essential to the medical profession because it gives physicians access to crucial data on interior body structures for clinical analysis and treatment decisions that help them identify and cure a wide range of illnesses. A significant collection of medical photos has been created as a result of the rapid increase in medical diagnoses, yet it can be difficult to locate similar medical images within such a large database. This article describes a technique for deep learning-based convolutional neural network (CNN) -based Content-Based Medical Image Retrieval (CBMIR) to deal with this problem as well as Modified Cosine Similarity (MCS)-based matching. The aim of this approach is to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of CBMIR by utilizing the power of deep learning and advanced optimization techniques. The proposed model includes two major phases: (a) the training stage, and (b) the testing stage. In the training stage, the pre-processing, feature extraction, and optimal feature selection process take place. The database images are pre-processed using the Gaussian filter, Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE), and Gaussian smoothing. Then, the deep features of database images are extracted using the Inception V3 CNN model and VGG19, respectively. The extracted features are combined, and the optimal features are selected from them. This selection is done through the new Coyote-Moth Optimization Algorithm (CMOA). This CMOA model is the conceptual amalgamation of the standard Moth-flame optimization (MFO) and coyote optimization Algorithm (COA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliability of conventional cell culture studies to evaluate biomaterials is often questioned, as in vitro outcomes may contradict results obtained through in vivo assays. Microfluidics technology has the potential to reproduce complex physiological conditions by allowing for fine control of microscale features such as cell confinement and flow rate. Having a continuous flow during cell culture is especially advantageous for bioactive biomaterials such as calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (HA), which may otherwise alter medium composition and jeopardize cell viability, potentially producing false negative results in vitro. In this work, HA was integrated into a microfluidics-based platform (HA-on-chip) and the effect of varied flow rates (2, 8 and 14 µl/min, corresponding to 0.002, 0.008 and 0.014 dyn/cm2, respectively) was evaluated. A HA sample placed in a well plate (HA-static) was included as a control. While substantial calcium depletion and phosphate release occurred in static conditions, the concentration of ions in HA-on-chip samples remained similar to those of fresh medium, particularly at higher flow rates. Pre-osteoblast-like cells (MC3T3-E1) exhibited a significantly higher degree of proliferation on HA-on-chip (8 μl/min flow rate) as compared to HA-static. However, cell differentiation, analysed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, showed low values in both conditions. This study indicates that cells respond differently when cultured on HA under flow compared to static conditions, which indicates the need for more physiologically relevant methods to increase the predictive value of in vitro studies used to evaluate biomaterials. There is a lack of correlation between the results obtained when testing some biomaterials under cell culture as opposed to animal models. To address this issue, a cell culture method with slightly enhanced physiological relevance was developed by incorporating a biomaterial, known to regenerate bone, inside of a microfluidic platform that enabled a continuous supply of cell culture medium. Since the utilized biomaterial interacts with surrounding ions, the perfusion of medium allowed for shielding of these changes similarly as would happen in the body. The experimental outcomes observed in the dynamic platform were different than those obtained with standard static cell culture systems, proving the key role of the platform in the assessment of biomaterials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conflicting evidence exists regarding the comparative effects of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) with and without suprarenal fixation. We compare outcomes in patients treated by EVAR with baseline normal kidney function and moderate and severe chronic kidney disease. Patients with normal kidney function (glomerular filtration rate [GFR] ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2) or moderate (GFR = 30-59 mL/min/1.73 m2) or severe (GFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2) kidney disease who underwent EVAR (N = 5534) were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program targeted database (2011-2015). Groups were determined by the presence (Cook Zenith [Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind] or Medtronic Endurant [Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minn]) or absence (Gore Excluder [W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz]) of a suprarenal fixation system. Postoperative renal complications, defined as rise in creatinine concentration of >2 mg/dL without dialysis or new dialysis requirements, were analyzed within the first 30 days with results stratified by degree of kidney disease. A total of 5534 patients underwent EVAR, with 3225 (58.3%) receiving a device using a suprarenal fixation system. Suprarenal fixation systems were less commonly used for symptomatic patients (11.0% vs 13.7%; P =.002) and patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (4.5% vs 6.3%; P =.01). There was no difference in baseline kidney function between groups. EVAR with suprarenal fixation was associated with more renal complications (1.40% vs 0.65%; P =.008). In subgroup analysis, patients with moderate kidney dysfunction (n = 1780) had more renal complications (2.2% vs 0.8%; P =.02) with suprarenal fixation systems. No differences were seen in patients with normal kidney function (0.4% vs 0.2%; P =.32; n = 3597) or severe kidney dysfunction (14.3% vs 10.2%; P =.45; n = 157). This difference was driven mostly by postoperative elevation of creatinine concentration (0.6% vs 0.2%; P =.03) without requirements for new dialysis (0.8% vs 0.4%; P =.08). After adjustments with multivariate logistic regression models, EVAR with suprarenal fixation was associated with more renal complications (odds ratio, 2.65; 95% confidence interval, 1.32-5.34). In our study, EVAR with suprarenal fixation devices was associated with more perioperative renal complications in patients with moderate kidney dysfunction. Long-term evaluation of these patients undergoing EVAR should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide an overview of the existing literature on subacromial balloon spacers for the treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, in an effort to inform surgeons of the procedure's clinical effectiveness. The PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid EMBASE databases were queried to identify studies evaluating the clinical, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes of patients indicated for subacromial balloon spacer implantation. The following datapoints were extracted: study demographics, patient baseline characteristics, and postoperative outcomes of interest. Outcomes were evaluated at baseline and at the longest available follow-up period. A total 766 patients were included among 22 included studies, with an average follow-up of 27.54 months. Improvements were seen for all clinical and patient-reported outcomes: forward elevation (ranging from 9.20 to 90.00° improvement), external rotation (ranging from 2.00 to 22.00°), abduction (ranging from 14.00 to 95.00°), Total Constant Score (ranging from 7.70 to 50.00), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ranging from 24.60 to 59.84), Oxford Shoulder Score (ranging from 7.20 to 22.20), and pain score (ranging from 3.57 to 6.50). Minimal differences were seen in acromiohumeral interval (ranging from –2.00 to 1.27). Reoperation and complication rates ranged from 0% to 33% and 0% to 19.64%, respectively. The short-term results of subacromial balloon spacers for management of massive rotator cuff tears demonstrate clinically relevant improvements in shoulder range of motion and substantial improvements in patient-reported outcome measures. Of note, minimal change in acromiohumeral interval was seen on postoperative radiography, and wide variations in complication and reoperation rates were reported across studies. Level IV, systematic review of Level I-IV studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manual measurement is unreliable as its highly subjective, leading to different estimates of motility between different laboratories. Further more, morphological determination is then made at different time on fixed, killed and stained sample. Several advanced sperm selection methods were currently used prior to ART, these are inadequate and fail to ensure spermatozoa with optimum quality. To assist in these microscopic measurements, several manufactures have developed and introduced into the market Computer Aided Sperm Analysis (CASA). These CASA machines can improve the accuracy of the microscopic measures, although major problem with them are: difficulty in tracking sperm trajectories, separate software is required to analyze sperm morphology and in addition high purchase costs, CASA machines are rarely used in routine laboratories. Clinician or researcher believe that the motile sperms are morphologically normal, whereas in reality this is not always the case. In this paper we have developed image analysis system using open source software IMAGEJ, which perform the test simultaneously to extract the sperm cells from the input video and perform the motility analysis with morphology on each sperm. Motility with morphology analysis using one-test procedure helps embryologist to improve fertility rate in assisted reproductive techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nagpur city is among the fastest growing agglomerations of Central India. The city is considered to be a fore-runner in sustainable development amist the rapid urbanization occurring in India. Though, selected under the "smart city" project launched by the Indian government, the city faces many urban challenges ineffectively addressed by the current development plan. Haphazard and rapid infrastructural development without any comprehensive plan is leading to urban sprawl that compromises urban green infrastructure across the city. It excludes utilizing benefits of nature and ecosystem services to complement and reduce urban stress. This has led to wetland reductions, reduced water infiltration affecting the water table and causing water shortage, flash floods, significant loss of vegetation cover and biodiversity across the city and increased heat island effects. These issues along with current approach that discounts the importance of ecosystems-based approach has put forward many challenges and a question with regard to sustaining "green image of the city". To reduce risk against uncertainties, it is imperative to understand human-environment connections that involves diverse values and ecosystem services provided by the natural environment of the cities. Present study is a review of major issues raised due to un-planned development and addresses the feasibility and appropriateness of using the EbDRR approach. Environmental engineering based approaches having potential to transform Nagpur City into to a "smart city" can set an example for other Indian cities to follow. This article facilitates understanding and practical applications of ecosystem based approaches and practices to counter negative impact of urbanization. Highlights • Nagpur selected to be developed as "Smart City" is one of the growing urban sprawls of Central India. • Nagpur has been facing urban challenges due to unplanned development leading to significant environmental issues. • Unplanned development has led to loss of green spaces, wetlands, ground water sources and increased heat islands. • Paper reflects prerequisites of ecosystem-based approaches to address the growing environmental problems in the city. • Study endorses wider applications of ecosystem-based approaches for restoring ecosystem services in urban sprawls of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Climate variability is the most influential driver altering the natural habitats of species leading to worldwide biodiversity loss. Understanding the climatic niche of vulnerable species and predicting its shift due to impending climate change is highly important to assess the damage. It also helps to plan and implement long term ex-situ or in-situ strategies to protect the species and its fragile habitats. Though, various important species of Himalayas are exploited for their economic and medicinal benefits, yet the impact of climate change on species have not been efficiently documented. Present study, is an attempt to understand the impact of climate vulnerability on habitat suitability of Hippophae salicifolia , a multipurpose species that grows particularly on the riparian fronts of river Ganga in Central Himalayas, using species distribution modeling. The Maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model with field observed occurrence locations of the species and CMIP5 (Couple Model Inter-comparison Project) derived bioclimatic variables were used for the study. The predictions were done on the geographic area of Central Himalayas in Uttarakhand state of India according to four IPCC RCPs (Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change, Representative Concentration Pathways) for the future periods 2050 and 2070. Our results show that the estimated potential (threshold-1) area along the riparian fronts is around 2050 km2 for the current period. Whereas, for the future years, the suitable area is likely to be lost by 87% for all climate change scenarios making H. salicifolia highly vulnerable in it' s actual habitats. An upward shift in the habitat of the species by 1700 m amsl (2800–4500 m amsl) is also predicted. Shift of species from its micro-habitats due to climate reflects unusual patterns and demands the vital need of applying climate adaptive management for habitat conservation. Present study presents a baseline database for broad-scale applicability of riparian front restoration for species conservation. Highlights • The species Hippophae Salicifolia will lose its potential habitat by 87%, making its presence highly vulnerable in the Central Himalayas. • The species is to likely scale higher altitudes in alpine region within the riparian buffers, due to climate variability. • Precipitation of the driest winter months and precipitation seasonality are important parameters contributing to the changes in distribution of H. salicifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A comprehensive experimental investigation in surface integrity is characterized by measurement of residual stresses, altered composition of the surface, surface roughness, white layer thickness, heat affected zone, surface morphology, hardness and corrosion resistance tests. The available literature on surface integrity studies was confined to a few of the above aspects and these studies were mostly concentrated on machining of variety of steels, titanium, inconel and nickel based alloys. In this paper aluminum 2014 T6 alloy has been selected for comprehensive study on surface integrity. The parameter settings influenced the residual stresses and a wide range of values were obtained varying from 8.2 to 405.6 MPa. The effect of parameter settings was also evident on the thickness of white layer and surface morphology. No surface cracks were observed at all machining conditions. The diffusion of elements from wire to surface resulted in the formation of various intermetallic compounds like AlCu and AlCu 3 which in turn affected the mechanical and chemical properties of the surface. The elastic properties of intermetallics and galvanic coupling created between the aluminum matrix and intermetallics greatly affected the hardness and corrosion resistance respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Liquid fluxes are used with tabbing ribbon to form a solder connection with the metallization paste of solar cell. Flux dissolves the oxides present on the surface of the tabbing ribbon as well as the silver bus bar on the top and bottom of the solar cell. With recent advances in automated tabbing and stringing machines, flux performance has increasingly becoming crucial and demanding. This paper reviews the new challenges that have emerged for liquid PV (photovoltaic) fluxes. Several existing issues and challenges are identified and discussed. The challenges were categorized into three main parts i.e. process, material and reliability. Each section is discussed at length and strategy to overcome the problems is proposed. More emphasis is given on pollution and peel strength related issues and approach to formulate next generation liquid fluxes. The analysis indicates that soldering fluxes with enough activity (under class "L" per IPC standard) and ultra fast wetting time are probably the best suit as next generation fluxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background High-energy fractures of proximal tibia (Schatzker VI) are associated with severe articular depression, separation of both condyles, diaphyseal comminution & dissociation with loss of integrity of the soft-tissue envelope. Complications of plating are well known since last 50years in these difficult fractures. An alternative method was proposed by Ilizarov (ring fixator) and was adopted for the treatment of these complex injuries. Aim of study To analyse the results of patients who had ring fixator for the management of high-energy fractures (Schatzker VI) of the proximal tibia.Material & Methods: Fifteen patients (mean age of 36years) with high-energy fractures of the proximal tibia (Schatzker VI) by the Ilizarov fixator and transfixion wires. Nine fractures were open and six patients had severe soft tissue injuries. Thirteen were treated by ligamentotaxis and percutaneous fixation. All were followed for a mean of 19.4 months. Using the criteria established by Honkonen & Jarvinen (1992), the outcome was analysed. Results Fourteen fractures united, with an average time to healing of 14.6 weeks and one took six months. 12 patients achieved full extension and 8 patients regained more than 110° of flexion. All knees were stable with one patient uniting in mild varus deformity. Normal walking was observed in nine patients and four had a mild limp. All but one knee had an articular step-off of less than 4 mm and all had normal axial alignment except one. The outcome suggested that seven knees were excellent, seven good and one as fair. There were no cases of postoperative skin infection or septic arthritis, but three cases had pin tract infection who were treated successfully. Conclusion The technique is well suited for the management of complex fractures of the proximal tibia (Schatzker VI) when extensive comminution at the fracture site and compromise of the soft tissue is present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the previous decade, the use of social-media has increased considerably. The social media or social networking sites are used to build consensus among people. Twitter is one of the most famous social networking site or micro-blogging service where people post their messages defined as tweets. There are nearly 330 million averaged monthly active users as reported in 2017. The data generated by each user is unique and hence the information is associated with their aspects of life. In this paper, extraction of various hidden features related to tweets generated by twitter user is analyzed. The analysis is done to know the behavior insights of a twitter user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disease and injuries that affect the skeletal system may require surgical intervention and internal fixation, i.e. orthopedic plate and screw insertion, to stabilize the injury and facilitate tissue repair. If the surrounding bone quality is poor the screws may migrate, or the bone may fail, resulting in fixation failure. While numerous studies have shown that cement augmentation of the interface between bone and implant can increase screw pull-out force, the physical properties of cement that influence pull-out force have not been investigated. The present study sought to determine how the physical properties of high strength calcium phosphate cements (hsCPCs, specifically dicalcium phosphate) affected the corresponding orthopedic screw pull-out force in urethane foam models of “healthy” and “osteoporotic” synthetic bone (Sawbones). In the simplest model, where only the bond strength between screw thread and cement (without Sawbone) was tested, the correlation between pull-out force and cement compressive strength (R 2 = 0.79) was weaker than correlation with total cement porosity (R 2 = 0.89). In open pore Sawbone that mimics “healthy” cancellous bone density the stronger cements produced higher pull-out force (50–60% increase). High strength, low porosity cements also produced higher pull-out forces (50–190% increase) in “healthy” Sawbones with cortical fixation if the failure strength of the cortical material was similar to, or greater than (a metal shell), actual cortical bone. This result is of particular clinical relevance where fixation with a metal plate implant is indicated, as the nearby metal can simulate a thicker cortical shell, thereby increasing the pull-out force of screws augmented with stronger cements. The improvement in pull-out force was apparent even at low augmentation volumes of 0.5 mL (50% increase), which suggest that in clinical situations where augmentation volume is limited the stronger, lower porosity calcium phosphate cement (CPC) may still produce a significant improvement in screw pull-out force. When the correlation strength of all the tested models were compared both cement porosity and compressive strength accurately predicted pull-out force (R 2 =1.00, R 2 =0.808), though prediction accuracy depended upon the strength of the material surrounding the Sawbone. The correlations strength was low for bone with no, or weak, cortical fixation (R 2 =0.56, 0.36). Higher strength and lower porosity CPCs also produced greater pull-out force (1–1.5 kN) than commercial CPC (0.2–0.5 kN), but lower pull-out force than PMMA (2–3 kN). The results of this study suggest that the likelihood of screw fixation failure may be reduced by selecting calcium phosphate cements with lower porosity and higher compressive strength, in patients with healthy bone mineral density and/or sufficient cortical thickness. This is of particular clinical relevance when fixation with metal plates is indicated, or where the augmentation volume is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of multimedia technology and rapid data transmission ability of networks, images have become a vital source of extracting information. So its security becomes a critical issue. Images are encrypted to another form in order to preserve their data. In this paper, we have put forward a hybridized model for encrypting images through a combination of Genetic Algorithm and DNA Sequence. DNA sequence is basically chosen as it offers greater storage and higher computing capabilities. The encryption method consists of two phases- Transposition or Scrambling phase and Substitution phase. In the first phase, pixel locations are altered using GA to reduce the correlation among adjacent pixels. In substitution phase, the pixels are replaced by using XOR operation between the pixel values converted into binary strings and DNA substrings derived from a random DNA string. DNA substrings are used as keys for image encryption. The experimental outcome validates that the algorithm is simple, fast enough and feasible. Performance analysis asserts the robustness of the algorithm against all kinds of attacks and thereby maintaining higher security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optic nerve avulsion following peri-orbital trauma is an enigmatic clinical entity. Several mechanisms and ideas have been put forward to derive a logical conclusion, however, each factor independently does not appear to explain the mechanism in a logical way, therefore, here we elaborate the probable chain of events responsible for this complication. During isolated blunt trauma to the orbital framework, the globe continues to move anteriorly without any active resistance, in contrast to the globe, the optic nerve with more delicate bony and soft tissue relations, likely to remain relatively static. Thus the junction between the optic nerve and ocular coat suffers the maximum distractive injury due to anteroposterior tractional forces. In addition to this, physiological Bell's phenomenon may induce torsional tension at this junction leading to further worsening of distractive forces and violent separation of optic nerve from the globe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The probable chain of events responsible for choroidal rupture is as follows. During high-speed orbital injuries, the protective ocular reflexes position the eye in an elevated, and abducted position. At this point in time, the anteroposterior compressive forces on to the globe create an eccentrically positioned circle of damaging currents along the posterior ocular coats against a relatively static optic nerve. Because of this eccentricity, a longer radius of curvature is expected to lie along the temporal half of the globe leading to an elastic recoil of the retinal and scleral layers and a fracture along the RPE-Bruch's-Choriocapillaris complex manifesting clinically as choroidal rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of nature and the extent of extraocular muscle injuries during initial visit in ocular emergencies is of paramount importance to avoid/minimize the subsequent need for strabismus surgery. Based on our experience in managing acute globe and orbital injuries and cases of strabismus, we propose the probable mechanism involved in the occurrence of extraocular muscle flap tear and a complete rupture of the muscle. During high-velocity injuries when the forces are equally transmitted along the orbital bony framework and the globe, then due to differential shearing forces created between the global and the orbital fibres leads to a flap tear. In the second scenario, if the forces are only directed along the bony framework, then the globe continues to be in continuous motion leading to increased tension between the muscles and the globe. Thus the weaker portions between these two structures are at risk of complete separation, that is along the insertion of muscle onto the globe or the musculotendinous portion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic iris sphincter tear has been thought to occur secondary to anteroposterior compression of the globe with defined forces lead to equatorial expansion and active pull along the corneoscleral junction and sphincter tear. However, here in this report, we elaborate the additional forces involved in the traumatic rupture of the sphincter pupillae muscle. During the anteroposterior compressive forces along the globe, the corneal deformation beyond certain limits leads to the development of sudden displacement forces within the anterior chamber. Aqueous within it which is incontinuous circulation with a posterior narrow pupillary aperture as its entrance, find the path of least resistance that is along the pupillary orifices leading to anexpulsive drive to displace the fluid through this small aperture. During this process, the horizontally oriented mechanical stretching forces appear to be the main cause ofpupillary sphincter tear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) possesses many advantages over the conventional manufacturing process. Hence, this process was used for machining of all conductive materials; especially, nowadays this is the most common process for machining of aerospace aluminum alloys. This process produces complex shapes in aluminum alloys with extremely tight tolerances in a single setup. But, for good surface integrity and longer service life, the residual stresses generated on the components should be as low as possible and it depends on the setting of process parameters and the material to be machined. In wire EDM, much of the work was concentrated on Titanium alloys, Inconel alloys and various types of steels and partly on aluminum alloys. The present investigation was a parametric analysis of wire EDM parameters on residual stresses in the machining of aluminum alloy using Taguchi method. The results obtained had shown a wide range of residual stresses from 8.2 to 405.6 MPa. It also influenced the formation of various intermetallics such as AlCu and AlCu 3 . Microscopic examination revealed absence of surface cracks on aluminum surface at all the machining conditions. Here, an attempt was made to compare the results of aluminum alloy with the available machined data for other metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online, continuous two phase flow measurements is often necessary for analysis of the two phase flow particularly in oil and gas, nuclear energy and chemical processing industries. Reliable measurements of void fraction and flow pattern identification are important for accurate modeling of two phase systems. Void fraction is one of the most important parameters used to characterize two-phase flows. It is the key physical value for determining numerous other important parameters, such as the two-phase density and the two-phase viscosity, for obtaining the relative average velocity of the two phases and is of fundamental importance in models for predicting the flow pattern transitions, heat transfer and pressure drop. Experiments are performed in atmospheric vertical air-water flows for void fraction measurement between the pipe size of 12.5 mm diameter to 4.5 mm diameter to emphasize on developing the measuring techniques of two-phase flow void fraction by using ‘Conducting probe circuit’ which uses a ‘needle probe’ for measurement of void fraction in an air lift loop. The process involves the immersion of probe tip in two phase mixture in order to detect the two phases instantaneously present at the tip and the corresponding readings for the measurement of void fraction are obtained from the processing circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a study on the image processing techniques used to identify and classify fungal disease symptoms affected on different agriculture/horticulture crops. Computers have been used to mechanization, automation, and to develop decision support system for taking strategic decision on the agricultural production and protection research. The plant disease diagnosis is limited by the human visual capabilities because most of the first symptoms are microscopic. As plant health monitoring is still carried out by humans due to the visual nature of the plant monitoring task, computer vision techniques seem to be well adapted. One of the areas considered here is the processing of images of disease affected agriculture/horticulture crops. The quantity and quality of plant products gets reduced by plant diseases. The goal is to detect, to identify, and to accurately quantify the first symptoms of diseases. Plant diseases are caused by bacteria, fungi, virus, nematodes, etc., of which fungi is the main disease causing organism. Focus has been done on the early detection of fungal disease based on the symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of a wire EDM surface is strongly influenced by its parameter settings and material to be machined. The one characterization among the metals for studying its effect is light and heavy metals. Much of the work is concentrated on heavy metals and partly on titanium and magnesium alloys in the light metals. Here, an attempt has been made to study the effect of wire EDM parameters on aluminum alloy because of its growing applications in various industries. In the present research, parametric analysis of wire EDM parameters was performed by Taguchi method on surface roughness (SR) and material removal rate (MRR). The above performance measures are simultaneously optimized by hybrid genetic algorithm with the use of developed linear regression models. The obtained results show a good agreement with experimental values. Finally, for a suggested combination of parameters white layer measurements were also made as it adversely affects many other properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Data sets contain very large amount of data which is not an easy task for the user to scan the entire data set. The researcher''s initial task is to formulate a rational justification for the use of sampling in his research. Sampling has been often suggested as an effective tool to reduce the size of the dataset operated at some cost to accuracy. It is the process of selecting representatives which indicates the complete data set by examining a fraction. Due to sampling we overcome the problems like; i) in research it is not possible to collect and test each and every element from the data base individually; and ii) study of sample rather than the entire dataset is also sometimes likely to produce more reliable results. This paper focuses on different types of sampling strategies applied on neural network. Here sampling technique has been applied on two real, integers and categorical dataset such as yeast and hepatitis data set prior to classification. The main objective of this paper is an empirical comparison of different sampling strategies for classification which gives more accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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Background: Many countries have seen an unprecedented rise of cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) associated mucormycosis (CAM). Cerebrovascular involvement in CAM has not been studied so far. We describe clinico-radiological manifestations of cerebrovascular complications observed in CAM.Methods: In this multicentric retrospective observational study from India, patients with CAM who developed cerebrovascular involvement were studied. Their demographics, risk factors, clinical manifestations, imaging, laboratory profile and outcomes were noted.Results: Out of 49 subjects with cerebrovascular involvement, 71.4% were males while average age was 52.9 years. Ischemic stroke was commonest (91.8%) followed by intracranial haemorrhage (6.1%) and subarachnoid haemorrhage (2%). The incidence of cerebrovascular complications in CAM was found to be 11.8% in one center. Cerebrovascular symptoms appeared a median of 8.3 days from the onset of mucormycosis. Commonest presentation of mucormycosis was rhino-orbito-cerebral syndrome in 98%. Diabetes mellitus was present in 81.7%. Forty percent developed stroke despite being on antiplatelet agent and/or heparin. Amongst subjects with ischemic strokes, location of stroke was unilateral anterior circulation (62.2%); bilateral anterior circulation (17.8%); posterior circulation (11.1%) and combined anterior and posterior circulation (8.9%). Vascular imaging revealed intracranial occlusion in 62.1%; extracranial occlusion in 3.4% and normal vessels in 34.5%. Mortality was 51% during hospital stay.Conclusions: Cerebrovascular involvement was seen in 11.8% patients of CAM. Angio-invasive nature of the fungus, prothrombotic state created by COVID-19, and diabetes were important causative factors. Subjects with CAM should be screened for involvement of the brain as well as its vessel. Antiplatelet agents/heparin did not seem to provide complete protection from this type of stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Anatomic repair is being actively evaluated as the preferred option for congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries. We present our 13-year experience with this approach. Methods: Between May 1994 and September 2007, 68 patients with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries underwent anatomic repair. Thirty-one patients (group 1, mean age of 94.8 ± 42.3 months) underwent a combined Rastelli and atrial switch operation. Thirty-seven patients (group 2, mean age of 36.1 ± 46.9 months) underwent an arterial switch operation and atrial rerouting. Eight patients in group 2 had an intact ventricular septum. Results: Group 1 had 5 early deaths (17%) but no late deaths. Three patients underwent conduit revision at a mean follow-up of 62 months. Group 2 had 5 early deaths (13.5%). There were 4 late reoperations (2 pulmonary baffle revisions, 1 mitral valve replacement, and 1 permanent pacemaker implantation) and 4 late deaths (1 secondary to progressive left ventricular dysfunction, 2 secondary to uncontrolled atrial tachyarrhythmia, and 1 secondary to pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular failure). In group 2, 4 patients have a left ventricular ejection fraction less than 40%, 5 patients have moderate aortic incompetence, 5 patients have symptomatic tricuspid incompetence, 1 patient has tricuspid stenosis, 1 patient has superior cava obstruction, and 3 patients are receiving antiarrhythmic therapy. Conclusion: The occurrence of left ventricular dysfunction indicate that anatomic repair in the arterial switch group is still fraught with imperfections. The Rastelli group required conduit revisions but has otherwise performed well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Congenital simple hamartoma of the retinal pigment epithelium is localized to the retinal tissue only with variable amount of surface extension. With consistent morphological and OCT features of the lesion around fovea, it appears that some of the embryologically undifferentiated ectopic progenitor cells destined for RPE within the retinal tissue may not undergo any further differentiation due to lack of necessary homeostatic factors leading to only hyperplasia and accumulation of the cells within the retina leading to simple hamartoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A fast and accurate in situ current normalised PIGE method was applied for total fluorine concentration determination. • Fluoride contaminated and uncontaminated regions were studied using this optimized method. • A good linearity was found over a wide range of concentrations (25–1500 mg kg−1) and the propagated uncertainty was better than 5 %. • Fluoride abundance in two studied regions inferred that the grain size of the sediment was crucial in controlling dissolved F concentrations. • Fluoride contamination in groundwater was mostly a result of hydrochemistry of aquifers rather than the mere presence of fluorine minerals in the sediment/rock. Fluorine is an important element and its quantification in various environmental samples is necessary for assessing its impact on human health. An in situ current normalized Particle Induced Gamma-ray Emission (PIGE) method was applied for total fluorine concentration determination to study the vertical variation in the sediment samples collected from two different geographic regions of India. One of the selected sites viz. , alluvium formations of Punjab is fluoride affected while the other viz. , sedimentary formations of Puducherry is not fluoride affected. Samples and standards along with Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) were irradiated using 4 MeV proton beam generated from Folded Tandem Ion Accelerator (FOTIA), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). For concentration calculation, γ-rays at 197 keV from 19F and 478 keV from 7Li (in situ current normalizer) were used. Results indicated that the fluorine concentrations were in the range of 93–776 mg kg−1 in Punjab and 93–443 mg kg−1 in Puducherry. The obtained results were correlated with the dissolved F− concentrations in groundwater from corresponding regions. The inferences from this study prove that the groundwater chemistry plays a vital role in F− leaching from sediments over the mere presence of fluorine minerals in the lithology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Augmentation materials, such as ceramic and polymeric bone cements, have been frequently used to improve the physical engagement of screws inserted into bone. While ceramic, degradable cements may ultimately improve fixation stability, reports regarding their effect on early fixation stability have been inconsistent. On the other hand, a newly developed degradable ceramic adhesive that can bond with tissues surrounding the screw, may improve the pullout performance, ensure early stability, and subsequent bony integration. The aim of this study was to investigate failure mechanisms of screw/trabecular bone constructs by comparing non-augmented screws with screws augmented with a calcium phosphate cement or an adhesive, i.e. a phosphoserine-modified calcium phosphate. Pullout tests were performed on screws inserted into trabecular cylinders extracted from human femoral bone. Continuous and stepwise pullout loading was applied with and without real-time imaging in a synchrotron radiation micro-computed tomograph, respectively. Statistical analysis that took the bone morphology into account confirmed that augmentation with the adhesive supported significantly higher pullout loads compared to cement-augmented, or non-augmented screws. However, the adhesive also allowed for a higher injection volume compared to the cement. In-situ imaging showed cracks in the vicinity of the screw threads in all groups, and detachment of the augmentation materials from the trabecular bone in the augmented specimens. Additional cracks at the periphery of the augmentation and the bone-material interfaces were only observed in the adhesive-augmented specimen, indicating a contribution of surface bonding to the pullout resistance. An adhesive that has potential for bonding with tissues, displayed superior pullout resistance, compared to a brushite cement, and may be a promising material for cementation or augmentation of implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic pollution has become a major issue governing ecosystem and human health risks. The Hangzhou Bay and Qiantang Estuary region are facing unusual perturbation due to rapid development along the embayment in recent decades. This study evaluated the organic and inorganic pollutants in water, sediment, and from the muscles of higher trophic organisms (fish, crustacean, shellfish) during four different seasons (in 2018–2019) along the Qiantang Estuary and Hangzhou Bay region to assess the ecosystem health and potential hazard status. Dissolved inorganic phosphate and nitrogen were the major pollutants in this area, which led to severe eutrophication throughout the study period. Eutrophication signals coincided well with the phytoplankton abundance, which revels the control of nutrient enrichment on the spatio-temporal distribution of phytoplankton. Food availability, along with salinity and temperature, drives the zooplankton population distribution. Heavy metals were not the issue of water quality as their concentrations meet the national and international baseline standards. However, in the sediments, Copper (Cu) and Arsenic (As) concentrations were higher than the baseline value. Towards the northwestern part of the Qiantang Estuary, the overall potential risk index of sediment with higher Cadmium (Cd) and Mercury (Hg) depicted delicate condition with moderate risk for the sediment contamination. The As concentration in fishes was close to the baseline standards limit irrespective of low As values within water and sediments. The higher concentrations of Zinc (Zn) and As in shellfish muscles, whereas other metals were within the limit of baseline standard in all the organisms. However, the hazard analysis (Targeted hazard quotient, THQ) values for the seafood consumption to human health indicates the potentially threatening consequences of shellfish and crustacean consumption on human health. Anthropogenic effluents causing eutrophication, heavy meatal pollution and human health risk through aquatic food consumption. Image 1 • Eutrophication is the major problem in water rather than other pollutants. • Eutrophication and other physio-chemical parameters shapes the plankton assemblages. • Sediments are in moderate risk condition for heavy metal contamination (Cu, Hg). • Metal concentrations are lower in fish than crustacean and shellfish. • Crustacean and shellfish consumption are threatening for human health because of As. Eutrophication is the major problem in water throughout the year. Cu and As concentrations were higher in sediment and possess moderate risk. High THQ value depicts that crustacean and shellfish consumption would be dangerous for human health due to Zn and As contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]