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Mutations that decrease or increase the activity of the tyrosine phosphatase, SHP2 (encoded by PTPN11), promotes developmental disorders and several malignancies by varying phosphatase activity. We uncovered that SHP2 is a distinct class of an epigenetic enzyme; upon phosphorylation by the kinase ACK1/TNK2, pSHP2 was escorted by androgen receptor (AR) to chromatin, erasing hitherto unidentified pY54-H3 (phosphorylation of histones H3 at Tyr54) epigenetic marks to trigger a transcriptional program of AR. Noonan Syndrome with Multiple Lentigines (NSML) patients, SHP2 knock-in mice, and ACK1 knockout mice presented dramatic increase in pY54-H3, leading to loss of AR transcriptome. In contrast, prostate tumors with high pSHP2 and pACK1 activity exhibited progressive downregulation of pY54-H3 levels and higher AR expression that correlated with disease severity. Overall, pSHP2/pY54-H3 signaling acts as a sentinel of AR homeostasis, explaining not only growth retardation, genital abnormalities and infertility among NSML patients, but also significant AR upregulation in prostate cancer patients. SHP2 interacts with ACK1 kinase to erase pY54-H3 (Tyr54-phosphorylation of histones H3) epigenetic marks and triggers Androgen receptor transcriptional program. It explains genital abnormalities and infertility in LEOPARD syndrome patients, and AR upregulation in prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare earth elements (REEs) comprises of a uniform group of lanthanides and scandium (Sc) and yttrium (Y) finding their key importance in agriculture sectors, electronic and defense industries, and renewable energy production. The immense application of REEs as plant growth promoters has led to their undesirable accumulation in the soil system raising concerns for REE pollution as upcoming stresses. This review mainly addresses the chemistry of REEs, uptake and distribution and their biphasic responses in plant systems and possible plausible techniques that could mitigate/alleviate REE contamination. It extends beyond the present understanding of the biphasic impacts of rare earth elements (REEs) on physio-biochemical attributes. It not only provides landmarks for further exploration of the interrelated phytohormonal and molecular biphasic nature but also introduces novel approaches aimed at mitigating their toxicities. By delving into innovative strategies such as recycling, substitution, and phytohormone-assisted mitigation, the review expands upon existing knowledge of REEs whilst also offering pathways to tackle the challenges associated with REE utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on developing a relation between fundamental frequency (fo) and the depth of sediments above the bedrock. The fundamental frequency of the site ranges from 1.25 to 27.19 Hz, whereas the depth of sediments above the bedrock varies from 2 to 145 m. The eastern Shimla region has a fundamental frequency variation from 3.6 to 5.5 Hz, whereas the western and central parts have a fundamental frequency variation from 1.24 to 5.5 Hz and high frequency (>20 Hz) at isolated locations. The seismic data has also been recorded in active mode using MSOR (multichannel simulation with one receiver) to derive the dispersion curve, enabling the derivation of a 1-D, shear wave velocity (Vs) model using a joint fit modelling procedure. The 1-D profile shows variation in Vs from 180 m/s at the top to 760 m/s at bedrock. As per the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) classification, the sites show that almost 40% of the city area fall under stiff soil and 60% fall under very stiff soil categories. Since most of the study region is covered with forest and sloping terrain, an empirical relationship (H = 154.36fo–1.451; R2 = 0.91) has been established for assessing the thickness of unconsolidated sediments. Furthermore, the thickness of sediments is determined by forward modelling by keeping the constant velocity at bedrock (Vb) 800 m/s. Additionally, the spatial map for sediment thickness is generated using the interpolation approach in combination with the forward modelling and regression analysis techniques. The derived relationship will provide major input for the area sharing similar geographical variability, where long active seismic profiles are not possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are one of the major toxic pollutants affecting water quality. The higher concentrations of heavy metals in the environment cause water quality deterioration. As these metals are used for various purposes, they enter in the effluent streams of these processes. Their removal and recovery without further contamination would enhance their recyclability and usability in further applications. The use of graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) with a polysulfone (PSF) based membrane is one potential solution to this issue. This will lead to rejection of heavy metals through the Donnan Exclusion Principle. At the same time, it offers the chemical and mechanical stability of PSF, and GNPs can be chemically modified to provide desired charge to membrane surface for optimum removal of heavy metals. Experiments using ultrafiltration membranes with GNPs anchored on them showed an increase in pore density, hydrophilicity, water flux and permeability transport properties. In addition, experiments involving Mn and Cr rejections revealed 96.97 and 93.07% rejections when 0.2% wt of GNP was included in the PSF based membrane. This highlights the importance of GNP treatment with suitable materials providing lower pore size and increased porosity and rejection of Mn and Cr. Such higher porosity would help to enhance transport rate and rejection properties which is necessity for successful industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fatty acid profiling in chickpea remains unexplored and offers relevant knowledge for crop improvement program. In the present work, the metabolite approach has been utilized with mass spectral analysis to metabolite changes in twelve varieties of kabuli as well as desi cultivars (twenty four totals) for fatty acid profiling. The total oil was extracted and found to be higher in all cultivars of kabuli chickpea (3.6–5.3%) as compared to all desi chickpea (3.2–4.6%) cultivars. However, no difference in the refractive indices of desi (1.4755–1.4773) and kabuli (1.4739–1.476) cultivars has been observed. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were reported to be predominant (kabuli; 50–68.6%, desi; 61.5–72.5%) and monounsaturated (MUFA) (kabuli; 19.9–38.4%, desi; 16.7–26.4%) and saturated fatty acids (SFA) (kabuli; 11–14.9%, desi; 10–11.9%) were relatively low in the oil of all selected cultivars. Among fatty acids, linoleic acid (C18:2), followed by oleic acid (C18:1), was most prevalent in all selected chickpea cultivars. The volatile organic compounds, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, 9-octadecenoic acid, and hexadecanoic acid have also been detected comparatively high. Similarly, oil contents also detected terpenoids including b-tocopherol, fucosterol, stigmasterol, and stigmata-5, 22-dien-3-ol. This work could offer comprehensive understanding of fatty acid composition in chickpea that could be used further for crop improvement to assess their nutritional importance in human diet and help to draft strategy for improving self-life during storage of flour of chickpea. This key insight of this work could be further harness to identify potential biochemical biomarkers for improving fatty acid content in chickpea seeds for crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Central nervous system (CNS) metastases from lung cancers and melanoma, significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in local therapies, there is a need for effective systemic treatments. Pembrolizumab, a PD-1 inhibitor, has shown promise for some patients with untreated brain metastases from melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aims to analyze the response of brain metastasis to pembrolizumab and associate characteristics like size and location with treatment outcome. Methods: This retrospective study used imaging data from a phase II trial of pembrolizumab in melanoma or NSCLC patients with untreated brain metastases. MRI evaluations were conducted at 2 month intervals, with each brain metastasis treated as a distinct tumor for response assessment, based on modified RECIST criteria (maximum 5 lesions, 5 mm target lesions). Results: Of 130 individual target metastases (> 5 mm), in 65 patients with NSCLC (90 metastases) and Melanoma (40 metastases), 32 (24.6%) demonstrated complete resolution, 24 (18.5%) had partial resolution, 32 (24.6%) were SD and 42 (32.3%) demonstrated PD. Those smaller than 10 mm were more likely to show complete resolution (p = 0.0218), while those ≥ 10 mm were more likely to have PR. There was no significant association between size, number or location (supratentorial vs. infratentorial) and lesion progression. The median time to metastatic lesion progression in the brain was 5.7-7 weeks. Conclusion: Pembrolizumab is effective in brain metastases from NSCLC and melanoma, showing response (CR + PR) in 43% and progression (PD) in 32% of metastases. With the median time to CNS progression of 5.7-7 weeks, careful radiographic monitoring is essential to guide timely local treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the work has been done to develop a cost-effective methodology, for the isolation of the potential producer of bacterial nanocellulose. No report is available in the literature, on the use of gram flour and table sugar for the screening of nanocellulose-producing isolates. Since commercially used, Hestrin–Schramm medium is expensive for the isolation of nanocellulose-producing micro-organisms, the possibility of using gram flour–table sugar medium was investigated in this work. Qualitative screening of micro-organisms was done using cost-effective medium, i.e., gram flour–table sugar medium. Qualitative analysis of various nanocellulose-producing bacteria depicted that cellulose layer production occurred on both HS medium and gram flour–table sugar medium. The yield of nanocellulose was also better on air–liquid surface in case of gram flour–table sugar medium as compared to HS medium. 16S rRNA was used for molecular characterization of bacterial strain and the best nanocellulose producer was identified as Novacetimonas hansenii BMK-3_NC240423 (isolated from rotten banana). FTIR and FE-SEM studies of nanocellulose pellicle produced on HS medium and gram flour–table sugar medium demonstrated equivalent structural, morphological, and chemical properties. The cost of newly designed medium (0.01967 $/L) is nearly 90 times lower than the Hestrin–Schramm medium (1.748 $/L), which makes the screening of nanocellulose producers very cost-effective. A strategy of using gram flour extract–table sugar medium for the screening of nanocellulose-producing micro-organisms is a novel approach, which will drastically reduce the screening associated cost of cellulose-producing micro-organisms and also motivate the researchers/industries for comprehensive screening programme for getting high cellulose-producing microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Automated methods for quantifying brain tissue volumes have gained clinical interest for their objective assessment of neurological diseases. This study aimed to establish reference curves for brain volumes and fractions in the Indian population using Synthetic MRI (SyMRI), a quantitative imaging technique providing multiple contrast-weighted images through fast postprocessing. Methods: The study included a cohort of 314 healthy individuals aged 15–65 years from multiple hospitals/centers across India. The SyMRI-quantified brain volumes and fractions, including brain parenchymal fraction (BPF), gray matter fraction (GMF), white matter fraction (WMF), and myelin. Results: Normative age-stratified quantification curves were created based on the obtained data. The results showed significant differences in brain volumes between the sexes, but not after normalization by intracranial volume. Conclusion: The findings provide normative data for the Indian population and can be used for comparative analysis of brain structure values. Furthermore, our data indicate that the use of fractions rather than absolute volumes in normative curves, such as BPF, GMF, and WMF, can mitigate sex and population differences as they account for individual differences in head size or brain volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industry 5.0 and Healthcare 5.0 converge towards a human centered society, having technological advancement as a lever. In Society 5.0, decentralized autonomous cities and a convergence of physical and cyberspace are the foundations of the new chapter of society’s development. The idea of creating digital replicas and legitimate representatives of human beings in cyberspace has become a pillar of digitalization. Society 5.0 introduces Human Digital Twins as a central element of Cyber Physical Systems that include human factors or are designed to interact with humans in a personalized fashion. Overall, the HDT and neighboring concepts are applied to depict how humans can be represented in a cyberspace. However, there are clear challenges in determining which human characteristics should take precedence, how much autonomy should be granted to HDTs to optimize their functionality and how to conceptualize the digital environment in which HDTs interact with various entities, including other digital agents and stakeholders with agency and decisional power. To harness similarities and differences of current approaches, we propose a classification of HDTs based on meta-characteristics and ethical implications. We discuss ethical implication by focusing on emerging risks and paradigm shifts and anchor the previous discussion in the vision for Society 5.0, questioning whether societal development relying on disruptive technologies, instead of leading to more human-centered societies might be driving humanized societies away from humanity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work investigates ion implantation of a transition metal (Ag) into MXene/TiO2 films utilizing low energy at different fluence rates of 5 × 1012, 5 × 1013, 5 × 1014, and 5 × 1015 ions-cm−2 respectively. The morphology and crystal structure of the transition metal-implanted MXene/TiO2 samples were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. In addition, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the presence of Ag(I) oxidation state at 5 × 1014 ions-cm−2 fluence, whereas at a higher fluence of 5 × 1015 ions-cm−2, both Ag(I) and Ag(0) states were found. The optical properties of the transition metal-implanted MXene/TiO2 samples were also investigated via UV-visible and photoluminescence studies. The transition metal implantation significantly enhanced the light absorption and reduced the charge recombination owing to the formation of defect states. Finally, the quantum dot-sensitized solar cell (QDSSC) device fabricated with 5 × 1014 ions-cm−2 (Ag_3) exhibited the highest power conversion efficiency of 3.94% versus the unimplanted MXene/TiO2-based QDSSC (2.48%), which is attributed to enhanced absorption and minimization of charge recombinations, as confirmed by photovoltaic characteristics and Nyquist plots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) monometal boron nanosheets (BNS) are emerging as a promising candidate, demonstrating high catalytic performance by virtue of their tunable surface chemistry, large surface area, superb hydrophilicity, and swift charge transfer kinetics. Nonetheless, oxidation and restacking of these nanosheets in ambient air make it challenging for practical applications. The introduction of transition metals in BNSs helps to suppress interlayer restacking of the sheets. Further, the addition of bimetallic atoms help to diminish the overpotential value, correspondingly boosting the catalytic activity and onset potential required for reaction kinetics. Accordingly, herein, structural and electronic engineering of BNS using bimetallic atoms (Ag:Cu) at different doping concentrations are investigated and characterized using x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies. Finally, the electrocatalytic performance towards hydrogen evolution reaction was investigated through cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to study the charge transfer rate. Here, optimized sample shows lowest overpotential value of 101 mV and Tafel slope of 59 mV dec−1 with highest exchange current density of 7.86 mA cm−2 and minimum charge transfer resistance of 15.9 Ω. Thus, current findings could help in developing the ideas for the surface modifications to significantly enhance the electrocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible electronics have become imperative in an emerging era of the Internet of Things (IoT), as they offer promising alternatives to rigid and complex circuitry for the development of wearable devices. As a result, the research field of flexible gas sensors is increasingly being investigated, including different potential materials, with the aim of high selectivity and sensitivity. In this study, a flexible ammonia (NH3) sensor unit was fabricated using cellulose nanofibers (C-NFs) as a flexible supporting framework and sensing material coating of Ti3C2Tx MXene. The fabricated sensor displayed higher selectivity to NH3 relative to other interferents in the ppm concentration range. The results revealed that the MXene/C-NFs-based sensor exhibited a response of 2.4% towards 5 ppm NH3 with faster response and recovery times of 42 s and 69 s, respectively, which were improved relative to a pristine MXene-based sensor with sensing response of 1.42% and response/recovery time of 67 s/104 s. This enhanced sensing performance was ascribed to the large specific surface area and efficient charge transport pathways provided by the one-dimensional structure of C-NFs, which facilitated the surface adsorption/desorption of NH3 molecules. In addition, the fabricated sensor demonstrated excellent flexibility features and reproducible sensing properties at different bending angles and bending cycles, with low sensing response attenuation of 5.2% under a maximum bending angle of 120°. Overall, this work illustrates the feasibility of employing a nanofiber matrix as a flexible sensing framework along with a porous absorption/desorption surface for next-generation wearable gas sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Quantified Boolean Formulas QBFs, dependency schemes help to detect spurious or superfluous dependencies that are implied by the variable ordering in the quantifier prefix but are not essential for constructing countermodels. This detection can provably shorten refutations in specific proof systems, and is expected to speed up runs of QBF solvers. The proof system QCDCL recently defined by Beyersdorff and Boehm (LMCS 2023) abstracts the reasoning employed by QBF solvers based on conflict-driven clause-learning (CDCL) techniques. We show how to incorporate the use of dependency schemes into this proof system, either in a preprocessing phase, or in the propagations and clause learning, or both. We then show that when the reflexive resolution path dependency scheme D rrs is used, a mixed picture emerges: the proof systems that add D rrs to QCDCL in these three ways are not only incomparable with each other, but are also incomparable with the basic QCDCL proof system that does not use D rrs at all, as well as with several other resolution-based QBF proof systems. A notable fact is that all our separations are achieved through QBFs with bounded quantifier alternation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenic mechanisms contributing to neurological disability in progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) are poorly understood. Cortical neuronal loss independent of cerebral white matter (WM) demyelination in myelocortical MS (MCMS) and identification of MS patients with widespread cortical atrophy and disability progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA) support pathogenic mechanisms other than cerebral WM demyelination. The three-dimensional distribution and underlying pathology of myelinated T2 lesions were investigated in postmortem MCMS brains. Postmortem brain slices from previously characterized MCMS (10 cases) and typical MS (TMS) cases (12 cases) were co-registered with in situ postmortem T2 hyperintensities and T1 hypointensities. T1 intensity thresholds were used to establish a classifier that differentiates MCMS from TMS. The classifier was validated in 36 uncharacterized postmortem brains and applied to baseline MRIs from 255 living PMS participants enrolled in SPRINT-MS. Myelinated T2 hyperintensities in postmortem MCMS brains have a contiguous periventricular distribution that expands at the occipital poles of the lateral ventricles where a surface-in gradient of myelinated axonal degeneration was observed. The MRI classifier distinguished pathologically confirmed postmortem MCMS and TMS cases with an accuracy of 94%. For SPRINT-MS patients, the MRI classifier identified 78% as TMS, 10% as MCMS, and 12% with a paucity of cerebral T1 and T2 intensities. In SPRINT-MS, expanded disability status scale and brain atrophy measures were similar in MCMS and TMS cohorts. A paucity of cerebral WM demyelination in 22% of living PMS patients raises questions regarding a primary role for cerebral WM demyelination in disability progression in all MS patients and has implications for clinical management of MS patients and clinical trial outcomes in PMS. Periventricular myelinated fiber degeneration provides additional support for surface-in gradients of neurodegeneration in MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regioselective distal C−H functionalization of nitroarenes by overriding proximal C−H activation has remained an unsolved challenge. Herein, we present a palladium-catalyzed meta-C−H alkenylation of nitroarene substrate, achieved through leveraging the non-covalent hydrogen bonding interactions. Urea-based templates comprising an elongated biphenyl linker designed in such a way that it interacts with nitro group via strong hydrogen bonding interaction, while a cyano based directing group is attached along the template to coordinate with the palladium center, thereby facilitating the activation of the remote meta-C−H bond of nitrobenzene. Computational mechanistic investigation and the analysis of non-covalent interaction deciphers the crucial role of H-bonding in regulating the regioselectivity. Regioselective distal C-H functionalization of nitroarenes by overriding proximal C-H activation has remained an unsolved challenge. Herein, the authors present a palladium-catalyzed meta-C-H alkenylation of nitroarene substrate, achieved through leveraging the noncovalent hydrogen bonding interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal barrier is a first line of defense that prevents entry of various harmful substances from the lumen into the systemic environment. Impaired barrier function with consequent translocation of harmful substances into systemic circulation ("leaky gut") is a central theme in many gastrointestinal, autoimmune, mental, and metabolic diseases. Probiotics have emerged as a promising strategy to maintain intestinal integrity and address "leaky gut". Using in silico, in vitro and avian in vivo analyses, we previously showed that two novel L. reuteri strains, PTA-126787 (L. reuteri 3630) and PTA-126788 (L. reuteri 3632), isolated from broiler chickens possess favorable safety profiles. Consistent with a recent study, here we show that L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 are phylogenetically similar to human L. reuteri strains. Daily administration of high doses of L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 to Sprague Dawley rats for 28 days was found to be safe with no adverse effects. More importantly, administration of L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 significantly reduced markers associated with alcohol-induced leaky gut, by downregulating inflammatory cytokines and upregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines in an alcohol model of leaky gut in mice. While L. reuteri 3630 cells and supernatant showed no activation, L. reuteri 3632 cells but not supernatant showed activation of AhR, a key transcription factor that regulates gut and immune homeostasis. L. reuteri 3630 is creamish white in morphology typical of Lactobacillus species and L. reuteri 3632 displays a unique orange pigmentation, which was stable even after passaging for 480 generations. We identified a rare polyketide biosynthetic gene cluster in L. reuteri 3632 that likely encodes for the orange-pigmented secondary metabolite. Similar to L. reuteri 3632 cells, the purified orange metabolite activated AhR. All together, these data provide evidence on the phylogenetic relatedness, safety, efficacy, and one of the likely mechanisms of action of L. reuteri 3630 and 3632 for potential probiotic applications to address "leaky gut" and associated pathologies in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our prototype system designed for clinical data acquisition and recording of studies is a novel electronic data capture (EDC) software for simple and lightweight data capture in clinical research. Existing software tools are either costly or suffer from very limited features. To overcome these shortcomings, we designed an EDC software together with a mobile client. We aimed at making it easy to set-up, modifiable, scalable and thereby facilitating research. We wrote the software in R using a modular approach and implemented existing data standards along with a meta data driven interface and database structure. The prototype is an adaptable open-source software, which can be installed locally or in the cloud without advanced IT-knowledge. A mobile web interface and progressive web app for mobile use and desktop computers is added. We show the software's capability, by demonstrating four clinical studies with over 1600 participants and 679 variables per participant. We delineate a simple deployment approach for a server-installation and indicate further use-cases. The software is available under the MIT open-source license. Conclusively the software is versatile, easily deployable, highly modifiable, and extremely scalable for clinical studies. As an open-source R-software it is accessible, open to community-driven development and improvement in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study is a comparative evaluation of the financial impact on choice of flap, clinical results as well as post resection quality of life assessment of cancer patients reconstructed with anterolateral thigh(ALT) flap and pectoralis major myo-cutaneous(PMMC) flap. Ethical clearance was obtained from institutional ethical committee. In this non-randomised, prospective study design among 49 oral squamous cell carcinoma cases, 39 cases were reconstructed using PMMC flap and 10 using ALT flap from year 2020 to 2022. These 2 flaps were compared in terms of parameters like time utilised for reconstruction, hospital stay, overall survival and Washington University Quality of Life index(UW-QOL) for head and neck cancer. Patients were followed regularly for post-operative complications. The University of Washington Quality of Life score (UW-QOL) questionnaire, version 4, was completed at six months post-operatively. Obtained data was statistically analysed using IBM® SPSSⓇ. Washington University Quality of Life index scores and esthetics are better with Antero-lateral thigh flap, with less overall post-operative complications. On the other hand Pectoralis myocutaneous flap has less surgical time and more salvage potential. Despite of Antero-lateral thigh flap having Good Washington University Quality of Life index scores, lesser post-operative complications and better esthetics; scale of developing nations is still tipping towards economical, less time consuming and less technique sensitive Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nodular lesion of the tongue encompasses a range of conditions, from reactive to malignant. It can be challenging to diagnose when a solitary and firm submucosal mass appears in the oral cavity. Following an essential investigation protocol is necessary for reaching a definitive diagnosis. Leiomyomas are benign tumors that infrequently occur in the oral cavity and typically affect individuals between their forties and fifties. This case report presents a rare and unique case of a giant submucosal fibromatosis located at the base of the tongue in a 3-year-old child presenting with features of pediatric OSA. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the positivity of tumor cells for beta-catenin and CD 34 aberrant expression, though SMA and STAT 6 were negative. The lesion was removed submucosally in toto and post-surgery the patient showed no symptoms and had no evidence of tumors during the one-year follow-up visit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chironji (Buchanania lanzan Spreng.) is a nut consumed in raw and roasted form in India and other parts of the world. It also contains high levels of oil and other nutrients similar to those found in commonly consumed nuts. However, no published data is available on the comprehensive nutritional profile, phytochemicals, and anti-nutrient factors of chironji. The present study is the first report to evaluate the effect of roasting (pan, microwave, hot air oven) of chironji kernels on the comprehensive nutritional profile, bioactive compounds, and anti-nutrients. The protein, fat, and total dietary fiber content of unprocessed (raw) and roasted chironji kernels ranged between 30.05 to 33.74, 55.94 to 60.60, and 3.38 to 3.54 g/100 g, respectively. Free sugars were significantly decreased by microwave roasting (MR) followed by Pan roasting (PR) and hot air oven roasting (HOR). Among the vitamins, B2, B3, B5 and B6 were decreased by 6.9–24.1%; 6.1–19.2%; 23.4–56.3%; and 15.3–23.7% upon MR, HOR and POR, respectively. The α, β and γ-tocopherols (TP) were also variably decreased depending on the roasting method. Roasting lowered the total carotenoids and β-carotene by 52.2% and 22.7%, respectively. Raw chironji kernels exhibited Fe, Ca, Cu and Zn of 7.17, 34.08, and 1.7 6.16 mg/100 g, respectively, that remained unaffected upon roasting. Total saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids were found to be 39, 55.2 and 5.8%, respectively, in raw chironji kernels; however, roasting did not change the fatty acid profile significantly. Catechin (6.74 mg/100 g) and rutin (3.61 mg/100 g) were observed to be the highest in raw chironji kernel and roasting significantly increased most of the individual polyphenols. Total phenolics and total flavonoids content were observed of 1150 mg GAE/100 g and 113.12 mg CE/100 g, respectively, in raw chironji kernels. The PR increased the DPPH- and ABTS- activities significantly. Overall, microwave roasting retained high levels of nutrients, but pan roasting improved the antioxidant potential of chironji kernels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guava seeds constitute 6 to 12% of the fruit weight, which contributes significantly to waste disposal in landfills annually. Guava seed oil (GSO) was extracted and evaluated for its quality attributes and utilized as substitute (10 to 50%) of refined oil in eggless and egg-based salad dressing. The yield of GSO was 10.07%, showing newtonian behaviour with significant amount of phenolic content (91.58 mg GAE/100 g), antioxidant capacity (52.91%) and total carotenoids (20.75 µg/g). FTIR spectra at 1742 1/cm confirm the presence of linoleic acid. Results showed that upto 20% level of GSO substitution in salad dressing results in superior organoleptic scores in comparison to higher levels. GSO substitution significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced the ash, acidity, pH, free fatty acid, peroxide vale of the salad dressing. Both salad dressings substituted with 20% GSO displayed significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases in total phenols (5.85%–8.23%) and total carotenoids (58.45%–61.12%), as result of which antioxidant activity also increased (18.17%–29.48%). Optical microscopy and particle size distribution confirmed that GSO substitution in salad dressing lowered the mean particle size and increased specific surface area, thus indicating increased oxidative stability of salad dressing. GSO substitution enhanced the viscosity, as salad dressing demonstrated pseudoplastic flow during shear rate. Storage studies (3 months) revealed GSO substituted exhibited better quality characteristics, antioxidant activity and oxidative stability in comparison to control. Results confirmed that GSO has a potential for substitution in salad dressing as functional components which enhanced the quality and storage stability of the salad dressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aims to develop and evaluate the wound healing potential of bakuchiol nanoemulsion loaded electrospun scaffolds. Since oxidative stress and microbial burden leads the burn wounds to become chronic and fatal to patients, a phytoconstituent, bakuchiol (BAK), was screened on the basis of antioxidant and antimicrobial potential which also defined its dose. Furthermore, BAK was incorporated into a nanoemulsion to enhance its therapeutic efficacy, reduce its dosage frequency, and maximize its stability. The present study is inclined towards the collaborative interaction of natural products and novel drug delivery systems to develop safe and therapeutically efficient systems for burn wound healing. The optimized nanoemulsion showed excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial potential against wound susceptible pathogens, i.e., Candida albicans and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus which was further loaded into gelatin based hydrogel and nanofibrous scaffold system. The mesh structure of scaffolds was chosen as a suitable carrier system for wound healing process not only because it offers resemblance to skin's anatomy but is also capable of providing uniform distribution of wound biomarkers across the skin. The prepared nanofibers were assessed for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing potential which was observed to be significantly better than its gel formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MnO2 and MnMoO4 nanostructures (NSs) with controlled characteristics were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal technique. Specific capacitances of 513.3 F/g and 833.3 F/g at a 5 mA/g are exhibited by MnO2 and MnMoO4 electrodes, respectively, indicating outstanding electrochemical properties. In terms of the rapid charge–discharge rate and long cycle life, a high electrochemical performance is exhibited. A capacitance reduction of approximately 11.3% was observed for the MnMoO4 electrode after 5000 cycles. Moreover, a specific capacitance of 61.7 F/g with an energy density of 7.7 W h/kg at a power density of 146 W/kg at 5 mA/g is exhibited by the MnMoO4/NF//MnMoO4/NF symmetric supercapacitor device. Additionally, a high specific capacitance of 93.3 F/g with a high energy density of 15.1 W h/kg at a power density of 562.6 W/kg at 5 mA/g is demonstrated by the MnMoO4/NF//AC/NF asymmetric supercapacitor device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few years, global use of Online Social Networks (OSNs) has increased. The rising use of OSN makes protecting users' privacy from OSN attacks difficult. Finally, it affects the basic commitment to protect OSN users from such invasions. The lack of a distributed, dynamic, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based privacy-preserving strategy for performance trade-offs is a research challenge. We propose the Distributed Privacy Preservation (DPP) for OSN using Artificial Intelligence (DPP-OSN-AI) to reduce Information Loss (IL) and improve privacy preservation from different OSN threats. DPP-OSN-AI uses AI to design privacy notions in distributed OSNs. DPP-OSN-AI consists of AI-based clustering, l-diversity, and t-closeness phases to achieve the DPP for OSN. The AI-based clustering is proposed for dynamic and optimal clustering of OSN users to ensure personalized k-anonymization to protect from AI-based threats. First, the optimal number of clusters is discovered dynamically with simple computations, and then the Whale Optimization Algorithm is designed to optimally place the OSN users across the clusters such that it helps to protect them from AI-based threats. Because k-anonymized OSN clusters are insufficient to handle all privacy concerns in a distributed OSN environment, we systematically applied the l-diversity privacy idea followed by the t-closeness to it, resulting in higher DPP and lower IL. The DPP-OSN-AI model is assessed for IL Efficiency (ILE), Degree of Anonymization (DoA,) and computational complexity using publically accessible OSN datasets. Compared to state-of-the-art, DPP-OSN-AI model DoA is 15.57% higher, ILE is 17.85% higher, and computational complexity is 3.61% lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrinking agricultural land sizes and multiplied food demand have prompted overuse of fertilizers in agriculture, leading to a series of environmental repercussions worsening day after day. In the contemporary scenario, concerns over the magnitude of soil destruction and plant health have shifted the scientific community's attention toward sustainable agricultural practices, including organic farming and the use of organic fertilizers like vermicompost (VC), animal manure, etc. A factorial study using a randomized block design was conducted in the field to appraise the potential of fertilizer and irrigation water on the biochemical and growth responses of Abelmoschus esculentus using different doses of VCs along with and without recommended doses of NPK. All the biochemical analyses were performed at 45 and 65 DAG (days after germination). At both ages, combination of 3-ton ha−1 vermicompost + recommended dose of inorganic fertilizer (120:60:60 kg ha−1) + irrigation water treatments (T5) had the highest protein, chlorophyll, carotenoid, and phenol content and less lipid peroxidation as compared to control (144.28%, 84.21%, 83%, 224.2% and -60.43%, respectively). Also, T5 treatment showed a noticeable increase in the photosynthetic pigments level and reduced heavy metal content in fruits of the test plant at maturity. Statistical analyses, including PCA, Pearson correlation matrix, and MANOVA (p < 0.05), showed that appropriate dosing of VC together with inorganic fertilizer not only augments plant growth and yield, but also helps in reducing the transport of metals to different plant parts, mitigating food chain contamination. However, overdosing on fertilizers could negatively impact the plant's growth and yield. Overall, the research highlights the value of organic agricultural supplements and irrigation water quality, fostering sustainable agriculture in multifaceted ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research describes the eco-friendly green synthesis of silver nanoparticles employing Pongamia pinnata seed extracts loaded with nanogel formulations (AgNPs CUD NG) to improve the retention, accumulation, and the penetration of AgNPs into the epidermal layer of psoriasis. AgNPs were synthesized using the Box–Behnken design. Optimized AgNPs and AgNPs CUD NG were physico-chemically evaluated using UV–vis spectroscopy, SEM, FT-IR, PXRD, viscosity, spreadability, and retention studies. It was also functionally assessed using an imiquimod-induced rat model. The entrapment efficiency of AgNPs revealed ~ 79.35%. Physico-chemical parameters announced the formation of AgNPs via surface plasmon resonance and interaction between O–H, C = O, and amide I carbonyl group of protein extract and AgNO3. Optimized AgNPs showed spherical NPs ~ 116 nm with better physical stability and suitability for transdermal applications. AgNPs CUD NG revealed non-Newtonian, higher spreadability, and better extrudability, indicating its suitability for a transdermal route. AgNPs CUD NG enhanced the retention of AgNPs on the psoriatic skin compared to normal skin. Optimized formulations exhibit no irritation by the end of 72 h, indicating formulation safety. AgNPs CUD NG at a dose of 1 FTU showed significant recovery from psoriasis with a PASI score of ~ 0.8 compared to NG base and marketed formulations. Results indicated that seed extract-assisted AgNPs in association with CUD-based NG formulations could be a promising nanocarrier for psoriasis and other skin disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buckwheat is one of the underutilized crop considered as nutritional and nutraceutical rich food crop having adaptability to cope under various environmental stresses. In the present investigation genetic variability for seven nutritional and nutraceutical traits among 132 buckwheat genotypes was accessed. Buckwheat seed flour was used for analysis of various nutri-nutraceuticals (Phenol, Flavonoids, Antioxidants, Iron, Zinc, Ascorbic acid, and Folate). Analysis of variance showed significant differences among genotypes for all the studied traits. Significant variation among genotypes based on nutri-nutraceutical traits was observed. Genotypic Coefficients of Variation (GCV) and Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) were high for Iron and Ascorbic acid. Heritability values for these traits ranged between 0.753 and 1.000, whereas the genetic advance ranged between 0.074% and 180.5%. This study provided insights about genetic variability among buckwheat genotypes for nutri-nutraceutical traits, that may have implications on breeding of nutrient rich varieties of buckwheat. The identified lines with high content of nutrients and nutraceuticals will act as important genetic resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney diseases are described by the decreased ability of the kidney to perform its normal functions, which include removing waste products from the blood, controlling blood pressure, and producing erythropoietin. In the current molecular epidemiological study we aimed to find out the association between the ACE I/D, 4a/b of eNOS, rs1801133 of MTHFR, and T344C of CYP11B2 polymorphism and chronic kidney diseases (CKD) in the population of Jammu region of the north Indian population. Convenient-based random sampling and simple random sampling approach were utilized to draw patients and control respectively. DNA was isolated from the collected blood sample and after target sequence amplification, the PCR–RFLP genotyping method was utilized to detect polymorphism and the result was confirmed by statistical analysis. We observed that risk allele i.e., CC of T344C, 4a/b variation of eNOS and rs1801133 of MTHFR was found to be significantly associated with CKD with an association value of OR 1.33, 95% CIs [1.02–1.72] (p value = 0.007), OR 1.72, 95% CIs 1.72 [1.24–2.38] (p value = 0.001) and OR 5.98, 95% CIs [2.05–17.42] (p value = 0.0002) respectively. In conclusion, this molecular epidemiology study shows the variation in CYP11B2, eNOS, and MTHFR (T344C, 4a/b allele, and rs1801133 respectively) significantly increases the risk of CKD in the region of Jammu of the north Indian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biometric-based personal authentication systems have experienced significant demand, primarily driven by growing concerns surrounding privacy and security in various applications. However, research has demonstrated that the human ear possesses sufficient distinguishing features to serve as a robust biometric measure. Ear biometrics present significant challenges in uncontrolled environments due to variations in factors such as pose, scale, and occlusion. To tackle the issue of human identification using ear images, the study proposes a framework named CSA-GRU based on a convolutional neural network (CNN) and gated recurrent unit (GRU) with self-attention. The current study employed four distinct datasets, namely IITD-I, IITD-II, AMI, and AWE, which underwent five augmentation techniques, including flipping, Gaussian noise, color jitter, brightness adjustment, and translation. Subsequently, a hybrid approach employing CNN and GRU with self-attention is used to extract features and perform human identification. The performance of CSA-GRU has been evaluated and yielded recognition rates of 99.24%, 99.81%, 99.07%, and 98.81% for the datasets mentioned above. Furthermore, a comparative examination has been conducted on CSA-GRU in correlation with diverse established methodologies. The findings indicate enhancements of 0.40%, 1.07%, 0.97%, and 18.30% across the above-mentioned datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As per World Health Organization (WHO) database, neurological and psychiatric disorders constitute a significant and escalating source of morbidity, impacting over one billion lives with a staggering 9 million fatalities. Unfortunately, the magnitude of these disorders remains largely untreated, primarily due to the formidable challenge of the cerebrospinal fluid–brain barrier (CBB), blood–brain barrier (BBB), as well as the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) compromising the central nervous system (CNS) therapies. Thus, there is a need to explore innovative drug delivery platforms capable of overcoming these barriers in order to facilitate effective delivery of therapeutic drugs. Intranasal drug delivery (INDD) of nanoformulations has emerged as a promising approach, leveraging advantages such as a high surface area, nanoscale particle size, mucoadhesion, noninvasive administration with rapid, and greater drug bioavailability. In this, cubosomal drug delivery (DD) has emerged as a pivotal targeted drug delivery strategy, particularly in the therapy of neurological ailments. Nowadays, researchers and academicians have focused their efforts to tailor cubosomes (CBS) specifically for improving efficacy of central nervous system (CNS) therapies. Conclusion: This review gives an idea about current status of neurological disorders (ND), the barriers that restricts CNS drug delivery (BBB), and possible nasal pathways of CBS for effective drug transport. A central focus is placed on intranasal (IN) cubosomal formulations for several NDs, elucidating their potential benefits while addressing existing challenges. In essence, this comprehensive review provides valuable insights into innovative approaches that hold promise for addressing the use and need of IN-CBS in the treatment of NDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extra-pulmonary TB (EPTB) is difficult to diagnose due to paucibacillary nature of disease. Current study evaluated accuracy of Truenat MTB and MTB-Rif Dx (TN), for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and resistance to rifampicin. Samples were collected from 2103 treatment naive adults with presumptive EPTB, and tested by smear microscopy, liquid culture (LC) (MGIT-960) and GeneXpert MTB/RIF (GX) (Microbiological Reference Standards, MRS). TN results were compared to MRS and Composite Reference Standards (CRS, Microbiology, histopathology, radiology, clinical features prompting decision to treat, response to treatment). CRS grouped patients into 551 confirmed, 1096 unconfirmed, and 409 as unlikely TB. TN sensitivity and specificity was 73.7% and 90.4% against GX. Against LC, Overall sensitivity of GX was 67.6%, while that of TN was 62.3%. Highest sensitivity by TN was observed in pus samples (89%) and highest specificity (92%) in CSF samples, similar to GX. TN sensitivity was better in fluid and biopsy samples and slightly inferior for lymph node aspirates compared to GX. TN sensitivity for RIF resistance detection was slightly superior to GX. TN and GX results were further compared to Clinical Reference Standards. TN detected 170 TB patients initiated on treatment missed by GX, while GX detected 113 such patients missed by TN. Of 124 samples with RIF resistance discordance between GX and TN, GX reported 103/124 as sensitive, 3/124 as indeterminate and 18 as resistant (13/18 samples had low/very low DNA load) while TN reported RIF resistance indeterminate in 103/111 low/very low DNA load samples. Due to paucibacillary nature of EPTB samples, culture yield was poor and phenotypic drug susceptibility testing failed to resolve the discordance. The study establishes TN at par with GX and can be utilized for quick and accurate diagnosis of EPTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of throughflow and variable gravity field on the stability of double diffusive convection in a fluid layer for the system when heating and salting both are done from below, are investigated. The linear and energy techniques are regulated to check the stability characteristics of the system. The numerical results of linear and non-linear techniques are compared to check the subcritical region. The Chebyshev pseudo-spectral technique is applied to find the influences of distinct physical parameters on the stability of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on the pathological and molecular characterization of African swine fever virus (ASFV) associated with an outbreak in wild boars in two national parks in southern India in 2022–2023. Significant mortality was observed among free-ranging wild boars at Bandipur National Park, Karnataka, and Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu. Extensive combing operations were undertaken in both national parks, spanning an area of around 100 km2, originating from the reported epicenter, to estimate the mortality rate. Recovered carcasses were pathologically examined, and ASFV isolates was genetically characterized. Our findings suggested spillover infection of ASFV from nearby domestic pigs, and the virus was equally pathogenic in wild boars and domestic pigs. ASFV intrusion was reported in the Northeastern region of the country, which borders China and Myanmar, whereas the current outbreak is very distantly located, in southern India. Molecular data will help in tracing the spread of the virus in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coarctation of the aorta is a common congenital abnormality that may be associated with serious and rare anomalies like aneurysms. Severe coarctation or interrupted aortic arch in adults is usually managed by percutaneous interventions or extra-anatomic bypass. However, the presence of an aneurysm beyond the coarcted segment implies the opening of a collateral-rich segment of the aorta with redressal of the arch if hypoplastic. We describe our experience in managing three such patients through antero-lateral thoracotomy with antegrade cerebral perfusion. We have found this technique helpful in treating aneurysms of the distal aortic arch or proximal descending thoracic aorta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh insects in the form of paste can be conveniently utilised for further food preparations and processing at both household and industrial levels. However, due to the high moisture content and particular physiochemical properties, insect paste is highly unstable and susceptible to significant quality changes during storage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and physicochemical stability of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treated Tenebrio molitor paste stored at different modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) conditions. Three different MAP compositions and normal air were applied. pH, colour, lipid oxidation, fluorescence spectra and microbiological parameters were evaluated along 28 days of refrigerated storage (4 °C). HHP treatment (600 MPa, 5 min) resulted in a significant reduction in mesophilic aerobic bacteria, anaerobic bacteria and yeast and mould counts. Growth of mesophilic aerobic and anaerobic bacteria remained low for 7 days at 4 °C, regardless of the applied atmospheric conditions, while high microbial growth was observed after 14 days without any significant differences among the treatments. The number of mesophilic spores remained low throughout the entire storage period when MAP was applied, whereas high values were observed after 28 days in the samples stored in normal air. Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli were not detected in any of the samples, nor in the raw paste. Lipid oxidation was initiated by the HHP treatment and displayed an increasing trend during the storage period, although the oxidation levels were lower in the MAP without oxygen compared to the normal air packaging and in MAPs with high O2 or CO2 levels. Fluorescence spectroscopy showed high potential for rapid detection of chemical changes in insect products during processing and storage. Overall, this study showed that MAP can effectively be applied on HHP-treated insect paste to extend its storage period. Absence of oxygen has been identified as a crucial factor in achieving reduced microbial growth and ensuring high physiochemical quality of the final product. Therefore, the present research offers a valuable insight for creating new edible insect-based products within the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heart transplant recipients frequently require kidney transplantation for concomitant advanced chronic kidney disease. Data on simultaneous (heart and kidney transplants performed simultaneously) versus sequential (heart transplant performed before kidney) heart–kidney transplants in children are limited. Herein, we compare kidney transplant outcomes between the two groups. Method: We used the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients to identify all pediatric (age <21 years) heart transplant recipients who also received a kidney transplant within 10 years of the heart transplant. We divided the study cohort into simultaneous heart–kidney and sequential heart–kidney recipients. We compared patient and death-censored graft survival using the Cox regression, adjusting for age at kidney transplant, sex, race, pre-transplant dialysis, donor type, and prior kidney transplant. We evaluated delayed graft function (defined as dialysis within the first week posttransplant) using logistic regression. Results: Our analysis cohort included 165 recipients (86 simultaneous and 79 sequential). The incidence of delayed graft function was higher in simultaneous recipients (22.4 vs. 7.7%, p=0.017), but the difference lost statistical significance on multivariable analysis. We found no difference in patient survival (aHR 0.97; 95% CI 0.39, 2.41; p=0.95) after kidney transplant but higher death-censored kidney graft survival in sequential heart–kidney recipients compared with simultaneous heart–kidney recipients (aHR 4.26; 95% CI 1.21, 14.9; p=0.02). Conclusion: Sequential heart–kidney transplants are associated with higher death-censored kidney allograft survival in children compared with simultaneous heart–kidney transplants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haploid induction (HI) holds great promise in expediting the breeding process in onion, a biennial cross-pollinated crop. We used the CENH3-based genome elimination technique in producing a HI line in onion. Here, we downregulated AcCENH3 using the RNAi approach without complementation in five independent lines. Out of five events, only three could produce seeds upon selfing. The progenies showed poor seed set and segregation distortion, and we were unable to recover homozygous knockdown lines. The knockdown lines showed a decrease in accumulation of AcCENH3 transcript and protein in leaf tissue. The decrease in protein content in transgenic plants was correlated with poor seed set. When the heterozygous knockdown lines were crossed with wild-type plants, progenies showed HI by genome elimination of the parental chromosomes from AcCENH3 knockdown lines. The HI efficiency observed was between 0 and 4.63% in the three events, and it was the highest (4.63%) when E1 line was crossed with wildtype. Given the importance of doubled haploids in breeding programmes, the findings from our study are poised to significantly impact onion breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, and disease mechanisms are still not fully understood. Here, we explored pathological changes in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons carrying the familial AD APPV717I mutation after cell injection into the mouse forebrain. APPV717I mutant iPSCs and isogenic controls were differentiated into neurons revealing enhanced Aβ42 production, elevated phospho-tau, and impaired neurite outgrowth in APPV717I neurons. Two months after transplantation, APPV717I and control neural cells showed robust engraftment but at 12 months post-injection, APPV717I grafts were smaller and demonstrated impaired neurite outgrowth compared to controls, while plaque and tangle pathology were not seen. Single-nucleus RNA-sequencing of micro-dissected grafts, performed 2 months after cell injection, identified significantly altered transcriptome signatures in APPV717I iPSC-derived neurons pointing towards dysregulated synaptic function and axon guidance. Interestingly, APPV717I neurons showed an increased expression of genes, many of which are also upregulated in postmortem neurons of AD patients including the transmembrane protein LINGO2. Downregulation of LINGO2 in cultured APPV717I neurons rescued neurite outgrowth deficits and reversed key AD-associated transcriptional changes related but not limited to synaptic function, apoptosis and cellular senescence. These results provide important insights into transcriptional dysregulation in xenografted APPV717I neurons linked to synaptic function, and they indicate that LINGO2 may represent a potential therapeutic target in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-grade chronic inflammation is associated with many age-related conditions. Non-invasive methods to monitor low-grade chronic inflammation may improve the management of older people at risk of poorer outcomes. This longitudinal cohort study has determined baseline inflammation using neopterin volatility in monthly urine samples of 45 independent older adults (aged 65–75 years). Measurement of neopterin, an inflammatory metabolite, enabled stratification of individuals into risk categories based on how often in a 12-month period their neopterin level was raised. Hearing was measured (pure-tone audiometry) at baseline, 1 year and 3 years of the study. Results show that those in the highest risk category (neopterin raised greater than 50% of the time) saw greater deterioration, particularly in high-frequency, hearing. A one-way Welch’s ANOVA showed a significant difference between the risk categories for change in high-frequency hearing (W (3, 19.6) = 9.164, p = 0.0005). Despite the study size and duration individuals in the highest risk category were more than twice as likely to have an additional age-related morbidity than those in the lowest risk category. We conclude that volatility of neopterin in urine may enable stratification of those at greatest risk of progression of hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For low-power circuit applications, the performance of the circuit is significantly influenced by the MOSFET's analog/RF and non-linearity properties. Gate-all-around junction-less accumulation mode MOSFETs (JAM) are now the perfect choice for low-power circuit applications. In the present work, the gate-stack engineering method is used for gate-all-around junction-less accumulation mode MOSFET (GSJAM) to improve the analog/RF characteristics. The analog/RF and linearity parameter analyses are numerically performed for a 20 nm channel length gate-all-around gate-stacked junction-less MOSFET using an ATLAS 3D device simulator. The comparative analysis of these analog/RF and linearity parameters is also done. The gate stack engineering shows significant improvements in analog/RF parameters, i.e., trans-conductance (gm), output resistance (Rout), early voltage (Vea), intrinsic gain (AV), trans-conductance frequency product (TFP), gain frequency product (GFP), trans-conductance generation factor (TGF), gain bandwidth product (GBWP), gain trans-conductance frequency product (GTFP), and cut-off frequency (fT). The results of the simulation investigation show that when GSJM is compared to JAM MOSFET, the values of gm, Rout, Vea, and TGF are all 26.37%, 2.24 times, 22.38%, and 20.78% higher, respectively. Also, the gate-stack junction-less MOSFET improves the linearity parameters, i.e., 2nd -order trans-conductance (gm2), 3rd -order trans-conductance (gm3), VIP2, VIP3, IIP3, IMD3, and 1-dBCP. When comparing GSJAM to JAM MOSFET, the values of VIP2 are 81.63% higher, VIP3 is 1.77 times higher, IIP3 is 6.72 times higher, and 1-dBCP is twice as high. Further, for analog/RF applications, a 20 nm CMOS common-source voltage amplifier circuit using gate-stake junction-less MOSFET has also been designed for a 20 mV and 1 GHz sinusoidal input signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The limited representation from developing countries in the original COME TOGETHER survey gave us an impetus to conduct this survey in the Indian subcontinent. Methods: This cross-sectional online survey was conducted from August through September 2022. Participants were health care physicians caring for patients with coma and disorders of consciousness. Fischer's exact test or the Mann–Whitney U-test was used to compare respondents who agreed or disagreed with the preestablished coma definition. Fleiss κ values were calculated to assess agreement among respondents. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The survey was completed by 130 physicians. We found substantial interrater agreement on absence of wakefulness (71.54%; κ = 0.71), Glasgow Coma Score ≤ 8 (78.46%; κ = 0.78), and failure to respond purposefully to visual, verbal, or tactile stimuli (66.15%; κ = 0.66). Reported common etiologies of coma included traumatic brain injury (50.76%), ischemic stroke (30%), and intracerebral hemorrhage (29.23%). The most common clinical assessment tools used for coma included the Glasgow Coma Score (92.3%) and neurological examination (60.8%). Neurological examination was the most common diagnostic tool used (100%), followed by magnetic resonance imaging (89.2%), basic laboratory studies (88.5%), and head computed tomography/angiography (86.9%). Pharmacological interventions used to stimulate arousal in patients with coma were sedation vacation (91.5%), electrolyte/endocrine correction (65.4%), osmotic therapy with mannitol (60%), hypertonic saline (54.6%), modafinil (46.9%), and antidote for drugs (45.4%). Among the nonpharmacological interventions, sensory stimulation (57.7%) was the most commonly used modality. The most common discharge disposition for comatose patients who survived hospitalization were home with or without services (70.0%). Conclusions: Differences from the global survey were noted regarding the following: traumatic brain injury being the most common etiology of coma in India, more frequent practice of sedation interruption, less frequent use of electroencephalography in India, rare use of pharmacological neurostimulants, and home being the most common discharge disposition in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human microarray gene profile analysis has become popular for early cancer detection. Due to security risks, Healthcare 4.0 standards make processing patient gene data difficult. Healthcare 4.0 guidelines must secure gene profile data storage and exchange. Recently several blockchain-based methods have been proposed for secure data processing for Cloud-based Healthcare 4.0 architecture. However, existing solutions not providing all the essential features like scalability, strong security measures, computational efficiency, and multiple security parameters. To overcome these problems, we propose a novel approach for the secure processing of the microarray gene expression data using computationally efficient, scalable, and highly secured Healthcare 4.0 standards. We propose a new Healthcare 4.0 architecture based on lightweight cryptography and blockchain technologies. Blockchain technology's recent advancements in cloud data storage and sharing indicate potential security features. Smart healthcare applications need a centralized approach for safe data storage and exchange. Edge layer (patients/gene users), fog, cloud storage, and blockchain make up Healthcare 4.0. Fog nodes store and search edge-layer gene data in blockchain-enabled cloud storage using lightweight cryptography. Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) protects data processing and privacy using Elliptic Curve Diffie–Hellman (ECDH) and Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA). Meta-data from cloud-saved data is stored in blockchain to prevent tampering, forging, and quantum. We designed different threat-based case studies to demonstrate the model's efficiency and scalability. Computing efficiency and security are better with the proposed strategy. The outcome case studies showed that the suggested approach protected against various opponent models. The proposed method reduces encryption and decryption times by 325 and 20 ms, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) mechanism is one of the important components of a solar photovoltaic system (SPS). For efficient working of the SPS, the MPPTs must be flexible to adapt to any change in irradiance level, as the output from the Solar PV system majorly depends on the level of irradiance present at a geographical location. This study deals with the scope of improvement in artificial neural network (ANN) by incorporating the metaheuristic tuning. The modified version of ANN MPPT controller has been developed with the help of a novel Horse herd optimization (HHO) algorithm that strategically optimizes the weights of the neural network. The systematic implementation and comparison of different versions of ANN MPPT controller have been performed, taking into account different scenarios like dynamically changing irradiance levels and several cases of partial shading condition. For the training of the neural network, the irradiance and temperature dataset has been collected from the NASA website. The analysis of the results has been done using parameters like fill factor, maximum power tracked, percentage mismatch power loss and efficiency, which shows that the ANN MPPT controller tuned with HHO algorithm tracks maximum power and attains maximum efficiency under various considered scenarios. Further, the EN50530 MPPT efficiency test has been performed under the fast- and slow-changing irradiance level to compare the efficacy of different algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multiplier onion, often known as the potato onion, is a multiplying or aggregating onion that is typically propagated by vegetative means or, in some genotypes, by seeds. The study of genetic divergence and variability in multiplier onions, which is of developing interest, will aid in the careful parent selection for next breeding program with the use of a variety of germplasm and distinguishing features. Therefore, in the current study, an experiment was planned for the rabi 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 in Rajgurunagar, Pune, to screen multiplier onion lines suited for both domestic and export purposes. The agro-morphological characteristics of 36 onion genotypes, including plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of shoots per plant, bulblet polar diameter, bulblet equatorial diameter, number of bulblets per plant, weight of bulblets per plant, and average bulblet weight, were examined. Among 36 genotypes, 1534-Agg genotype recorded the highest total yield (287.17 q/ha). The genetic diversity of 36 genotypes was assessed using recently developed 17 intron length polymorphic (ILP) markers. Following amplification, 1008 bands in total were produced, with polymorphism information content values between 0.03 and 0.44 across 41 polymorphic loci and one monomorphic locus. The principal component analysis (PCA) detected three principal components (PCs) in that PC-I contributing 54.54% of the genetic diversity in the genotypes. In these genotypes, a total of 17 primers were amplified, resulting in 41 alleles. The cluster analysis revealed maximum genotypes in cluster B followed by clusters A, D, C, and E. The genotypes 1539-Agg and 1523-Agg have the maximum degree of similarity (0.97) in cluster A, whereas genotypes 1549-Agg and 1533-Agg have the lowest degree of similarity in cluster E. The genetic diversity among multiplier onion genotypes collected from various regions of the country has been shown by the current findings, which may serve as the foundation for more breeding studies in onions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) have emerged as potential therapy to target the underlying arrhythmogenic substrate in atrial fibrillation (AF). Nevertheless, there have been inconsistent results on the impact of MRAs on AF. Objective: We sought to evaluate the effect of MRAs on AF incidence and progression in patients with and without heart failure. Methods: Electronic databases were searched up to September, 2022 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated MRA use and reported AF outcomes. Primary outcome was a composite of new-onset or recurrent AF. Safety outcomes included hyperkalemia and gynecomastia risks. A random-effects meta-analysis estimated pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: 12 RCTs, comprising 11,419 patients treated with various MRAs were included [5960 (52%) on MRA]. On follow-up (6–39 months), 714 (5.5%) patients developed AF. MRA therapy was associated with a 32% reduction in the risk of new-onset or recurrent AF [OR 0.68 (95% CI 0.51–0.92), I2 = 40%]. On subgroup analysis, the greatest benefit magnitude was demonstrated in reducing AF recurrence [OR 0.50 (95% CI 0.30–0.83)] and among patients with left ventricular dysfunction [OR 0.59 (95% CI 0.40–0.85)]. Gynecomastia, but not hyperkalemia, was associated with MRA use. Meta-regression analysis demonstrated that therapy duration was a significant interaction factor driving the effect size (Pinteraction = 0.013). Conclusion: MRA use is associated with a reduction in AF risk, especially AF progression. A prominent effect is seen in patients with heart failure, further augmented by therapy duration. Prospective trials are warranted to evaluate MRA use as upstream therapy for preventing this common arrhythmia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kabuki Syndrome is a rare and genetically heterogenous condition with both ophthalmic and systemic complications and typical facial features. We detail the macular phenotype in two unrelated patients with Kabuki syndrome due to de novo nonsense variants in KMT2D, one novel. A follow-up of 10 years is reported. Pathogenicity of both de novo nonsense variants is analyzed. Methods: Four eyes of two young patients were studied by full clinical examination, kinetic perimetry, short wavelength autofluorescence, full field (ff) ERGs, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). One patient had adaptive optic (AO) imaging. Whole exome sequencing was performed in both patients. Results: Both patients had de novo nonsense variants in KMTD2. One patient had c.14843C>G; p. (Ser4948ter) novel variant and the second c.11119C>T; p. (Arg3707ter). Both had a stable Snellen visual acuity of 0.2–0.3. The retinal multimodal imaging demonstrated abnormalities at the fovea in both eyes: hyperreflectivity to blue light and a well-delimited gap—disruption of ellipsoid and interdigitation layer on OCT. The dark area on AO imaging is presumed to be absent for, or with structural change to photoreceptors. The ff ERGs and kinetic visual fields were normal. The foveal findings remained stable over several years. Conclusion: Kabuki syndrome–related maculopathy is a distinct loss of photoreceptors at the fovea as shown by multimodal imaging including, for the first time, AO imaging. This report adds to the literature of only one case with maculopathy with two additional macular dystrophies in patients with Kabuki syndrome. Although underestimated, these cases further raise awareness of the potential impact of retinal manifestations of Kabuki syndrome not only among ophthalmologists but also other healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with this multisystem disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hematological alterations of bovine reticular abscess are reported in literature, but the detailed biochemical alterations and long-term outcome of bovine reticular abscess have not been reported so far and are not available in the standard textbooks. This study aims to describe clinical features, hemato-biochemical alterations, management, productive and reproductive performance, long term follow-up of reticular abscess in bovines. This prospective study was conducted on 12 bovines diagnosed with reticular abscess. All the animals were subjected to hematological and biochemical evaluation along with a healthy control group. The diseased animals were subjected to radiography, ultrasonography, and surgical treatment. The clinical findings were chronic anorexia, dehydration, persistent or recurrent tympany, scanty feces, mushy rumen, tachypnea, gradual reduction in milk yield, distended rumen, and increased fecal particle size with undigested particles in feces. Although the presence of penetrating reticular foreign bodies seemed to be the major cause, the role of non-metallic foreign bodies cannot be ruled out. Ultrasonography was more reliable than radiography in the diagnosis of reticular abscess. The majority of the reticular abscesses were single and were located cranio-ventrally. White blood cell and neutrophil counts were significantly (p < 0.05) higher while lymphocyte count was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the control values. The hematology findings can be used for tentative diagnosis of reticular abscess in bovines. Total bilirubin, aspartate aminotrasferase, total protein, globulin, fibrinogen, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine glucose, cholesterol, and lactate were significantly (p < 0.05) higher, and albumin, albumin-globulin ratio, fibrinogen ratio, potassium, chloride, and calcium were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the corresponding control values. Rumen chloride concentration was higher than the reference range. Peritoneal fluid analysis in four cases revealed septic peritonitis. Reticular abscess can lead to vagal indigestion, usually posterior functional stenosis. The conservative treatment was unsuccessful. The long-time survival rate in surgically treated animals was 66.7% and in the majority of animals, there was no effect on fetal survival or milk yield in current and subsequent lactation. Reticular abscess was primarily associated with foreign bodies in the reticulum and causes significant biochemical changes. Ultrasonography was more reliable than radiography in the diagnosis of reticular abscess. Surgical drainage into the reticular lumen usually results in a successful surgical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]