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Demand for natural fibers has increased in recent years due to the requirement for biodegradable materials. Owing to the increasing awareness on the overuse and over-dumping of plastics in the environment, the current work focused on a solution by using tree leaves as a particulate reinforcement which is one of the common waste products of trees. In this regard, Norfolk pine (NOP) tree leaf particulates filled High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) composites were fabricated through injection moulding technique with different filler weight % of 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 wt. %. The study of the crystalline structure of the fillers and the detection of functional compounds in the materials were carried out through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic (EDX) analysis. Tensile strength, compressive strength, and flexural strength of the fabricated composite specimens were also assessed. Results revealed that the mechanical properties of the 30 wt. % pine tree leaf-filled HDPE composites were found to be superior when compared to pure HDPE composites. The failure surface morphology of the composite samples was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The melting point and decomposition of 30 wt. % NOP leaf particulate-filled HDPE composites specimen, whose mechanical properties were higher, were examined using thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). From the results, it was found that NOP fillers can be used as an effective reinforcement in polymer composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was undertaken to study the frequency and spectrum of Chlorophyll mutations along with the mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of different doses of EMS, Gamma ray and combination of both, in barnyard millet variety CO(Kv). 2. In M2 generation, no chlorophyll mutations were observed in the control population. The treatments behaved differently in the frequency of occurrence of chlorophyll mutations. The spectrum of chlorophyll mutations (chlorina, xantha, albino, viridis, and striata) were observed and grouped. Except striata, remaining four kinds of mutations viz., xantha, chlorina, viridis and albino were observed more frequently. The overall mutation spectrum showed that chlorina (0.47%) occurred with the highest frequency, followed by albino (0.37%), xantha (0.26%) viridis (0.19%) and Striata (0.08%). The mutagenic effectiveness decreased with the increase in dose of mutagen in both mutagens, indicating that negative relationship between effectiveness and dose of mutagen. Mutagenic efficiency (mutation rate in relation to M1 damage) in both mutagens was highest at the lowest dose and it decreased with the increase in dose. The study concluded that Barnyard millet, Co(Kv).2 millet responds well to EMS, Gamma ray and combination of EMS and Gamma ray treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to estimate the lethal dose of the chemical mutagen EMS and physical mutagen gamma ray in barnyard millet variety Co(Kv) 2. Genetically pure seeds were treated with different doses of EMS viz. 30mM, 40mM, 50mM, 60mM, 70mM, 80mM, 90mM and 100mM and gamma rays viz., 500 Gy, 600 Gy, 700 Gy, 800 Gy, 900Gy and 1000 Gy. The LD50 values were observed based on growth reduction of seedlings after EMS and gamma ray treatment. The LD50 dose for EMS and gamma ray under in vitro and in vivo condition were fixed at 70mM and 800 Gy respectively, based on probit analysis. As the doses of applied EMS and gamma ray increased, there was a decrease in germination, survival rate of seedlings, root length, shoot length, seedling height, vigour index under in vitro conditions and emergence and survival under field (in vivo) conditions in M1 generation as compared to the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract History is often marked by the materials and technology that reflect human capability and understanding. The increasing needs on bio-degradable and eco-friendly nature for consumer goods, the usage of bio-based materials is on demand. Flax has attracted attention since Stone Age as one of a few plants from which highly valued products are made. Fibres from flax plants are cost-effective, bio-degradable and exhibited good mechanical properties. This review focuses on the preparation, properties and prospects of flax fibres and its composites. The plant growth, harvesting, fibre structure, properties, effect of chemical treatments, influence of various factors such as fibre length, diameter, fibre location, fibre orientation on properties of composites, and processing-structure-property relationships have been reviewed. Then the effect of fibre configuration, manufacturing processes, fibre quantity, matrix selection, ecological effects, mechanical properties, life cycle assessment, failure studies and fibre/matrix interface parameters on the characteristics of flax fibre composites have also been analyzed. Many open issues and ideas for further improvement are also analyzed, and more emphases are given for the development of environment-friendly bio-inspired material. Focusing on the summary of the review and the effects of the flax fibres on the finished products are also presented in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This communication includes the description of sixteen species of cheilostome Bryozoa from the lower Miocene (Burdigalian) of Quilon beds of Padappakara, Kerala, India. Four out of these species are newly indexed. They are Skylonia malabarica, Vincularia taylori, Adeonellopsis keralaensis and Stylopoma warkhalensis. The species in these rocks are reported for the first time. These species are Nellia tenella, Tretosina sp.1, Tretosina sp. 2., Steginoporella cf. vicksburgia, Cosciniopsis sp., Adeona articulata, Adeona sp., Adeonellopsis sp., ?Emballotheca sp., Stylopoma aff. magniovicellata, ?Petraliella sp. and Anoteropora magnicapitata. Majority of them are tropical to subtropical, warm water species. Affinities with Indo-Pacific and Atlantic bryozoan faunas are discussed. Palaeoecological analysis of zoarial growth forms indicate moderate to high sedimentation rate and deposition in the inner shelf environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents measurements and calculations of electric field in samples with deliberately planted superficial and internal defects. Samples evaluated include full-scale composite insulators and cylindrical rods of the housing material. The goal of this work is to ascertain the viability of electric field as an indicator of impending failure of composite insulators that can develop such defects during manufacture and/or service. Measurements were performed with an Electro-optic probe based on Pockels effect. Calculations were performed using 3-dimensional Boundary Element Method package. Good agreement between the measurements and calculations has been demonstrated. The results show that conducting defects originating from the HV electrode produce a greater change in the electric field when compared to a healthy insulator than defects originating from the ground electrode or anywhere in between. The magnitude of the change in electric field when compared with a healthy sample diminished with increasing radial distance from the sample. Hence, it is important that the probe be placed close to the insulator shank for maximizing defect detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Semiconducting silicides are highly promising materials for applications in thermoelectric, photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices. Here, using ab-initio density functional theory, the lattice dynamics, dielectric properties, Infrared (IR) refletivity and Raman intensity spectra of Nowotny chimney-ladder semiconducting silicide Ru 2 Si 3 are investigated. The zone-center phonon mode frequencies are found to be in the range 80–510 cm−1. The Born effective charge tensor, oscillator strength and Infrared activity is found to largest for the mode with frequency 422 cm−1 which is primarily contributed by displacements of Si atoms. The largest Raman activity is obtained for mode with frequency 479 cm−1 which is also dominated by vibrations of Si atoms. Modified Becke-Johnson (MBJ) exchange potential is used to compute the band gap of Ru 2 Si 3 which improves the band gap by ∼8% as compared to that obtained using LDA. The computed Infrared reflectivity and Raman intensity spectra are expected to provide benchmark first-principles theoertical results for comparison with the experiments. Highlights • Ab-initio calculations of lattice dynamics and dielectric properties of Ru 2 Si 3. • Ab-initio calculations of Infrared reflectivity and Raman spectra of Ru 2 Si 3. • Significant Raman intensities are obtained for modes 91, 231 and ∼479 cm−1. • Born effective charges and IR activity are found to be largest for mode 422 cm−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the socio-demographic profile, pattern and treatment outcomes of pesticides poisoning.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the department of emergency medicine of a South Indian tertiary care hospital for 1.5 years to study the pattern and outcomes of poisoning cases due to pesticides. Level of significance (P) <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.Results: A total of 375 poisoning victims with intentional/accidental exposure to pesticides were followed up and documented. The male-female ratio was 1:0.32; mean age was 31.65 ± 13.10 years. 72% of cases were rural residents. Organophosphorus compounds were the most implicated pesticides. Mean Glasgow Comatose Score (GCS) of the patients was 12.22 ± 3.86. 80.3% of patients recovered while 6.4% died. About 13.3% patients were lost to follow-up as they were discharged against medical advice (DAMA).Conclusion: There was a statistical significance seen in the implication of pesticides for intentional poisoning with age, route of administration, area of residence and occupation of the victims. However, there was a strong association of the outcomes of poisoning with the toxic agent implicated for the poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the phonon modes, dielectric properties, infrared (IR) reflectivity, and Raman intensity spectrum of semiconducting silicide BaSi 2 within the framework of the first principles density functional theory. The zone-center phonon mode frequencies formed two major bands in the ranges of 50–150 cm −1 and 270–500 cm −1 . The modes in the frequency band 100–150 cm −1 had high Born effective dynamical charges and oscillator strengths, and they contributed significantly to the mode effective charge, static dielectric permittivity, IR activities, and reflectivity spectrum. These modes were attributable to displacements of isolated Si clusters relative to one another without internal distortions. The computed Raman activities and intensities were significant for modes in the frequency band of 270–500 cm −1 . These modes were primarily associated with silicon atom vibrations in the Si clusters in BaSi 2 and the internal modes of the isolated Si clusters with T d symmetry. The band gap was also computed for BaSi 2 using the modified Becke–Johnson exchange potential and it was in good agreement with the previously reported experimental values. The computed Raman intensity and IR reflectivity spectrum can be used as benchmark first principles theoretical results to compare with experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extreme erosion wear from elevated temperature caused by the impact of entrained solid particles in the fluid stream primarily affects aerospace components and marine parts. This work focuses on increasing the base material erosion resistance by applying thermally sprayed carbide-based coatings. A high-temperature Solid particle erosion behavior of WC-Co/NiCr/Mo and Cr3C2-CoNiCrAlY coatings deposited by the HVOF process on a titanium-31 was evaluated using an air-jet erosion tester. The erosion test was conducted utilizing alumina erodent of grit size 35-50 µm. The effects of impact angles (30°, 60°, and 90°) and temperatures (200-800 °C) on the erosion performance of two coatings are compared. The feedstock powder and as-sprayed coatings were characterized for micro-structure phase composition, porosity, density, micro-hardness, and adhesion strength. SEM/EDS and a 3D optical profilometer were used to examine eroded samples further to determine the erosion mode. The Cr3C2-CoNiCrAlY coating shows a brittle mode behavior of erosion at 200-400 °C and ductile mode behavior of erosion at 600-800 °C. In contrast, the WC-Co/NiCr/Mo coating shows brittle mode behavior of erosion at 200-400 °C and 600-800 °C, a mixed mode behavior of erosion. The erosion loss in volume of Cr3C2-CoNiCrAlY is lower than WC-Co/NiCr/Mo for all temperatures and impact angles. The development of carbide and oxide phases on the eroded surfaces demonstrates increasing erosion resistance at high temperatures. The optical profilometer measures the volumetric erosion loss, compares it with the weight loss method, and finds consistency between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise pollution is the major drawback of Internal Combustion engines. Automotive engineers and researchers have been working consistently on reducing automotive noise as well as pollution. While designing the mufflers, care must be taken not only for noise reduction but also for back pressure, space constraints, cost incurred, etc. Various methods to design and analyze the mufflers have been devised by researchers across the globe. In this paper an attempt has is made to present a Tuning of muffler for Low and broadband noise. Geometrical parameters influencing design of Helmholtz Muffler has been carried out in this Study. For Broadband noise, impact of Porosity and wool packing material has been chosen as a design parameter. Results observed that for exhaust system with two muffler components we have dedicated Helmholtz chamber, while for exhaust system with single muffler component, internal of muffler to have both broadband and Helmholtz integrated. Reactive mufflers like Two pass mufflers and Three pass mufflers can be taken as an initial reference to have acoustic tuning for both Helmholtz and broadband noise tuning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 55-year-old female who was newly diagnosed with hypertension and Parkinson’s disease presented with the complaints of hyperpigmented scaly plaques on her left forearm and elbow, which she claimed to have developed after receiving 10 days of her medications – Tab. cilnidipine 5 mg, Tab. rasagiline 0.5 mg, and Tab. trihexyphenidyl 2 mg. She was diagnosed with photosensitivity reaction to drugs. Among the drugs she received, cilnidipine may cause photosensitivity reaction as it belongs to the dihydropyridine class, which is photoliable and is known to cause phototoxic skin reactions. However, this reaction is rare in the case of cilnidipine when compared with other calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine and diltiazem. Clinicians should be vigilant regarding such rare reaction occurrence. The causality for the suspected adverse drug reaction was found to be possible and the severity was found to be moderate (level 3) reaction, using Naranjo criteria and the World Health Organization probability scale; and Modified Hartwig and Siegel scale, respectively. We report a case of a patient who developed photosensitivity reaction after receiving cilnidipine, which subsided on dechallenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fulfil the development goals towards the synthesis of innovative, potent and highly effective antimicrobial and antimycobacterial agents, a set of benzene sulfonamide pyrazole thio-oxadiazole derivatives (6a-6l) have been synthesized by the reaction of 4-[5-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-3-(5-mercapto-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]benzenesulfonamide with alkyl/aryl halides, identified by IR, NMR (1H, 13C, 19F) and MS data. Composed compounds were examined for their antimicrobial and antitubercular activity. Antibacterial activity of compounds 6c, 6d, 6j and 6l was found promising against E. coli, P. Aeruginosa, S. Aureus and S. Pyogenes as compared to standard ampicillin. Compounds 6d, 6e, 6g, 6h and 6i were found active against tubercular strain H37Rv. Molecular docking studies against mycobacterium tuberculosis β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase A (Kas-A) was carried out which suggests a possible mode of inhibition for this target protein and the potential of synthesized compounds as antitubercular agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of tissue glue in pediatric circumcision.Materials and Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the English literature (1997-2017) was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement on children who underwent circumcision with tissue glue. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3, Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 2, and MedCalc 18. P values <.05 were considered significant.Results: The search returned 15 studies for a total of 4567 circumcisions, of which 3045 (66%) were performed with tissue glue. The systematic review indicated that overall complication rates were 4.3% (tissue glue) and 5.9% (sutures). The use of tissue glue was associated with reduced postoperative pain, better cosmetic results, and reduced cost. Meta-analysis showed that there was no difference between the incidence of total postoperative complications (relative risk [RR] 0.86 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.62-1.19], P = .36) and wound infection and dehiscence between the 2 groups (RR 0.95 [95% CI: 0.59-1.56], P = .85). Postoperative bleeding and hematoma formation were reduced with the use of tissue glue (RR 0.55 [95% CI: 0.32-0.95], P = .03). Tissue glue also significantly shorten the operative time (mean difference -0.22 [95% CI: -0.39 to -0.05], P = .01).Conclusion: The incidence of postoperative bleeding and hematoma formation in pediatric circumcision is reduced with the use of tissue glue. Tissue glue has reduced operative time; furthermore, it might be associated with reduced postoperative pain, less overall cost, and superior cosmetic results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Present work, the Reduction of ethyl 2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4-methylthiazole-5-carboxylate(1) by Lithium Aluminium hydride in diethyl ether Solvent yield (2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4-methylthiazol-5-yl) methanol (2) followed by Oxidation using IBX in the DMSO solvent, to yield 2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4- methylthiazole-5-carbaldehyde(3) which on further reaction with2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4-methylthiazole-5- carbohydrazide(4) in the presence of conc. sulphuric acid in ethanol solvent to yield N-(2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4-methylthiazol-5-yl)methylene)-4-methyl-2-(phenyl substituted)thiazole-5-carbohydrazide(5) which further cyclisation with mercaptoacetic acid in presence of zinc chloride catalyst in DMF Solvent afforded series of thiazolidin-4-one derivatives namely N-(2-(2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4-methylthiazol-5-yl)-4-oxothiazolidin-3-yl)-2-(4-phenyl substituted)-4-methyl thiazole-5-carboxamide(6a-h). The structure of all the synthesized compounds was characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, DIP MS data. Furthermore, compounds (6a-h) were screened for their antibacterial activity against gram negative (E. coli and P. aeruginosa) and gram positive (S. aureus and B. subtilis) bacteria, antifungal activity against pathogenic fungal strains and anti-inflammatory activities. Some of the compounds exhibited promising antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to understand the role of international and domestic actors, ideas and processes in the diffusion of public policies. It argues that existing studies on the subject do not provide an adequate explanation of the mechanisms through which diffusion takes place, nor do they sufficiently address the roles of actors affecting the policy transfer process. We address these shortcomings by studying the diffusion of conditional cash transfer (CCT) programs from Brazil and Mexico to the Philippines over the past decade. We use the concept of an 'instrument constituency' to delineate and trace the various actors and channels involved in the diffusion of CCTs. The case study shows that these groups of actors dedicated to the articulation, adoption and expansion of particular policy instruments are central players in transnational diffusion of policies and offer a robust explanation of the phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium ions incorporated calcium phosphate was synthesized by wet chemical route and followed by microwave assisted method. XRD analysis was confirmed that the presence of calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite). TEM analysis was exhibited rod-like morphology. XRF results were showed the percentage of calcium, phosphate, magnesium and oxygen. There was a slight blue shift observed in magnesium ions based samples. Higher magnesium (0.1 Mg-HAp) was revealed the greater discharging time with capacitance voltage (0.55 V). Magnesium based calcium phosphate was showed prolonged rate of drug release. At higher frequency, the Nyquist plot was showed the electrochemical behavior, however at lower frequency, revealed mass transfer process. Magnesium ions tailor the specific capacitance of calcium phosphate. Therefore, magnesium ions based phosphate samples could be an outstanding multifunctional candidate for drug release and supercapacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), a rare variant of lichen planus, is reported in various ethnic groups, more often from the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. Aims: Although the condition is encountered quite often by dermatologists of this region, the data on the clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical (IHC) aspects of LPP are limited. This prospective study is aimed towards filling this lacuna. Materials and Methods: Data were collected from thirty clinically diagnosed cases of LPP who presented to the dermatology outpatient department. Skin biopsy and blood investigations were conducted and the specimens were further analyzed for their histopathological features and IHC staining for CD4+, CD8+ T-lymphocyte subsets along with CD45RO (UCHL-1), and CD68. The results were statistically analyzed. Results: The study showed a female preponderance (56.7%). Photo aggravation as a precipitating cause was seen in 40% of the individuals. The lesions with duration <4 months had a more intense inflammatory infiltrate on histology. CD4+ and CD8+ cells showed very good Pearsons correlation on statistical analysis. CD45 was seen in association with CD8+, and staining for CD68 to assess the macrophage density showed a close correlation with CD45RO. Limitations: Small sample size. Conclusion: LPP represents a misguided lesional immune response pattern. The intense inflammatory infiltrate seen in the early lesions necessitates prompt treatment to arrest progression which may prevent the chronic pigmentary phase of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abundant availability and accessibility of plant fibres are the major reasons for an emerging new interest in sustainable technology. While focusing on the composite materials, the main points to be considered are environment friendliness and light weight, with high specific properties. This century has witnessed remarkable achievements in green technology in the field of materials science through the development of high-performance materials made from natural resources is increasing worldwide. Plant fibres are a kind of renewable resources, which have been renewed by nature and human ingenuity for thousands of years. The greatest challenge in working with plant fibre reinforced composites (PFRCs) is their large variation in properties and characteristics. A PFRCs properties are influenced by a number of variables, including the fibre type, environmental conditions, processing methods, and modification of the fibre. A detailed systematic review on these sustainable and renewable green materials is presented in this paper. The overall characteristics of plant fibres used in bio-composites, including source, type, structure, composition, as well as properties, will be reviewed. Finally, the review will conclude with recent developments and future trends of PFRCs as well as key issues that need to be addressed and resolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dermatosis papulosa nigra ( DPN) is a benign cutaneous condition which commonly occurs in dark-skinned people, especially Asians and African Americans. Owing to its benign nature and rarity, very few studies have been conducted to date, and dermoscopic studies are practically nonexistent. Objectives To study the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with dermatosis papulosa nigra ( DPN) and to correlate the clinical findings with dermoscopic and histopathological findings in DPN. Methods A total of 100 patients attending the Dermatology outpatient department at Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, India, with clinically diagnosed dermatosis papulosa nigra were included in the study. Histopathology and dermoscopic evaluation of the lesions were done, and the characteristics seen were noted. Results Earlier onset of lesions was noted in our study, i.e. onset in the 4th decade as compared to the 6th decade in most other studies. A female preponderance, positive family history, history of sun exposure, and involvement of the head and neck were other significant associations. Histopathology revealed an acanthotic variant in all the lesions that were biopsied. The predominant dermoscopic finding was fissures and ridges of the cerebriform pattern followed by comedo-like openings. Conclusion Dermatosis papulosa nigra is a benign unaesthetic condition seen in Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI. The diagnosis is mainly clinical; however, in a few cases histopathology and dermoscopy aid in differentiating it from other benign and malignant tumors. Dermoscopy, in particular, being a noninvasive investigative moiety is a rapid and accurate diagnostic tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Retinoic acid (RA, 1), an oxidized form of vitamin A, binds to retinoic acid receptors (RAR) and retinoid X receptors (RXR) to regulate gene expression and has important functions such as cell proliferation and differentiation. Synthetic ligands regarding RAR and RXR have been devised for the treatment of various diseases, particularly promyelocytic leukemia, but their side effects have led to the development of new, less toxic therapeutic agents. Fenretinide (4-HPR, 2), an aminophenol derivative of RA, exhibits potent antiproliferative activity without binding to RAR/RXR, but its clinical trial was discontinued due to side effects of impaired dark adaptation. Assuming that the cyclohexene ring of 4-HPR is the cause of the side effects, methylaminophenol was discovered through structure–activity relationship research, and p -dodecylaminophenol (p -DDAP, 3), which has no side effects or toxicity and is effective against a wide range of cancers, was developed. Therefore, we thought that introducing the motif carboxylic acid found in retinoids, could potentially enhance the anti-proliferative effects. Introducing chain terminal carboxylic functionality into potent p -alkylaminophenols significantly attenuated antiproliferative potencies, while a similar structural modification of weakly potent p -acylaminophenols enhanced growth inhibitory potencies. However, conversion of the carboxylic acid moieties to their methyl esters completely abolished the cell growth inhibitory effects of both series. Insertion of a carboxylic acid moiety, which is important for binding to RA receptors, abolishes the action of p -alkylaminophenols, but enhances the action of p -acylaminophenols. This suggests that the amido functionality may be important for the growth inhibitory effects of the carboxylic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence has suggested Interleukin (IL)-17A to be an important effector cytokine in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Here, we report results for an Indian sub-population from a multinational study FIXTURE, designed to assess the safety, tolerability, and long-term efficacy of fully human anti-IL-17A monoclonal antibody secukinumab in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Materials and Methods: In this double-dummy, placebo controlled, 52-weeks phase 3 study FIXTURE, 149 Indian patients were randomized 1:1:1:1 to receive secukinumab at a dose of 300 mg or 150 mg, etanercept, or placebo. The study objective was to show the superiority of secukinumab over placebo at week 12, vis-à-vis proportion of patients achieving a reduction of 75% or more from the baseline in the psoriasis area-and-severity index score (PASI 75) and a score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) on a 5-point modified investigator's global assessment (IGA mod 2011) (co-primary end points). Results: At week 12, 61.0% and 55.9% patients in secukinumab 300 mg and 150 mg groups, respectively, achieved PASI 75 response compared to 20.0% in the etanercept and 7.1% in the placebo groups. Similarly, IGA mod 2011 0 or 1 response was achieved by 43.9% and 20.6% in patients in the secukinumab 300 mg and 150 mg group, respectively, vs. 13.3% in the etanercept and 2.4% in the placebo groups at week 12. Likewise, higher proportions of patients in secukinumab 300 mg (41.5%) and 150 mg (20.6%) group were PASI 90 responders at week 12 than those in the etanercept (10.0%) or placebo (0.0%) groups. The incidences of adverse events (AEs), during the induction period were similar in all the treatment groups. Overall secukinumab was well-tolerated at both doses in the Indian sub-population. Conclusion: The results from the Indian sub-population suggest that secukinumab is an efficacious and safe drug for use in moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the experimental investigation of the performance, emission and combustion characteristics of bio fuels from ceiba pentandra methyl ester (CPME), ceiba pentandra methyl ester-pine oil blends (CPMEP) and pine oil and the results are compared with diesel. In ceiba pentandra seed oil the CPME yield is 92% by using transesterification process with the optimum conditions of 560 rpm, reaction time 58 min, catalyst concentration 13 g and methanol amount 500 ml. The viscosity of CPME is high when compare with diesel. So the low viscosity of pine oil is blended with CPME and it can be directly used in diesel engine without any modification. At different loads the Pine oil, CPME and CPMEP blends were used in direct injection naturally aspirated compression ignition engine. The outcomes exhibited that at full load conditions for CPME and CPMEP blends increased brake specific fuel consumption, and decreased brake thermal efficiency, CO, HC emissions. NOx emissions decreased and smoke emissions are increased on CPME and CPMEP blends, expect B25 blend compared with diesel. The combustion analysis like the heat release rate, peak cylinder pressure, cumulative heat release rate and ignition delay for CPME, CPMEP blends slightly lower and combustion duration higher than diesel and pine oil. At the Same engine operating condition, the engine fuelled with pine oil the values of brake thermal efficiency 4.79%, peak cylinder pressure, heat release rate, cumulative heat release rate and ignition delay are increased. Brake specific fuel consumption, CO, HC, and smoke were 9.46%, 16.66%, 14.89% and 8.33% decreased. However, the NOx emission is 8.29% higher than that of diesel. Experimental fuels up to B50 (50% pine oil and 50% CPME) blends have proved good potential for future energy is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on a study which investigated the effect of the incorporation of sodium into bismuth-doped lutetium iron garnet lattice on the magnetic and magneto-optical properties of the lattice. Theoretical background of the study; Experimental procedures; Results and discussion.

Reports on the film composition and growth conditions which may be used to produce films with nearly isotropic propagation margins which support submicrometer bubble domains. Description of the development of the isotropic magnetostrictive films; Film growth and characterization; Conclusion.

Presents a study that investigated domain mode ferromagnetic resonance (DMFMR) in bismuth-substituted magnetic garnet films. Description of the DMFMR theory; Preparation of samples used in the experiment; Theoretical values for the zero-field domain wall resonance.

Provides information on a study that observed interactions between the domain wall resonance mode and the domain ferromagnetic resonance modes for the first time in unsaturated gallium- and lanthanum-doped thin yttrium iron garnet films. Experimental observations; Results and discussion on the study; Conclusion.

ABSTRACT In this letter, a new design of a band select ultra wide band (UWB) unequal power splitter suitable for broadband communication systems was presented. To obtain band select characteristics, the proposed structure used broadside coupled lines. The quarter wave transformer in the conventional Wilkinson power splitter was replaced by offset broadside coupled lines to achieve broadband operation in this letter. The broadside coupled line configuration was achieved between the transmission lines in the top layer and a floating conductor in the defected ground plane of the microstrip medium. The advantage of this type of power splitter was that it could reject the out of band frequency signals. The proposed two way UWB unequal power splitter was designed using microstrip medium with defected ground structure for a wide range of frequencies between 3.1 and 8 GHz. Experimental results of the designed unequal power splitter (10 and 0.5dB) have been verified against the results full wave simulations and the results were in good agreement. The amplitude variation over the frequency band was within ±0.3 dB. The isolation between the output ports was more than 19 dB. Size of the realized power splitter was 36 mm × 40 mm × 0.78 mm. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 58:1563-1566, 2016 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-wood plants became an alternative solution or source of fibrous material in this millennium due to increasing population and industrialization along with better education. In a view to reduce the cost of production and the harmful destruction of our environment, so many research work has been carried out and still ongoing as to the possibility of using natural fibres for the development of high performance engineering products. It is for the reason that this paper is geared through reviewing the published results and brings out converging problems associated with kenaf; a very important natural fibre with favourable mechanical properties and insight into the use of composite reinforcement has been addressed. The overview of the developments made in the area of kenaf fibre reinforced composites in terms of their market, manufacturing methods, matrix combinations, environmental effects, chemical treatments, physical properties, and fracture characteristics are addressed. Several critical issues and suggestions for future work are discussed, for the bright future of this bio-based material through value addition to enhance its use. Emphases are given on the summary of the literature and presentation of the effect of the kenaf fibres on the final products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastocytosis is a disorder characterized by the clonal proliferation of mast cells and their accumulation in skin, bone marrow, liver, and spleen. Cutaneous mastocytosis presents in children in over 90% of the cases and any cutaneous manifestation in an adult is the earliest sign of the systemic disease. A 45-year-old patient presented with itchy dark lesions over the body since childhood and Darier's sign was positive. Skin biopsy showed features of mastocytosis and immunohistochemistry was positive for CD34. Since the patient was refractory to treatment with antihistamines and psoralen-ultraviolet A therapy, injections of interferon alpha were given - 3 million IU twice weekly subcutaneously as they have been proven to improve constitutional symptoms. Very few reports of successful treatment of cutaneous mastocytosis using interferon alpha have been published. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites made from renewable sources have become important alternative materials for designing and manufacturing engineering and industrial products. Natural fiber composites have become superior materials compared to conventional fiber composites, due to their easy manufacturing process, high-fiber content, reduction in the polluting base content, lightweight, and incineration. Environmental cleanliness is an increasing concern to look for sustainable alternative materials that can replace conventional materials that are being used now. Natural fibers constitute a good alternative reinforcement material, since they are readily available in fibrous form, and can be extracted at very low costs. In the present study, environment friendly green composites have been prepared and the mechanical properties of these composites are evaluated. The results indicated a significant improvement in the tensile, flexural, and impact properties of the hybrid composites, and the effect of hybridization reduces the environmental effects. The internal structure of the broken surface, delamination of fibers, and the failure morphology are analyzed using the scanning electron microscopy analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerium-doped 0.8BaTiO3-0.2BiKTiO3 with composition 0.8Ba0.2(BiK)TiCeO3 where x = 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06 lead free ceramics were prepared by conventional solid state reaction method followed by high energy ball milling. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the tetragonal structure at room temperature for all the Ce-doped samples. Lattice parameters and density were increasing with increase of Ce doping. Frequency and temperature dependent dielectric studies were carried out and indicate that the dielectric constant and Curie temperature are decreasing with increasing of Ce doping. All the Ce-doped samples exhibiting diffused and dispersive phase transitions with degree of diffuseness ranging from 1.4 to 2 calculated from the modified Curie-Weiss law. Impedance studies confirms the temperature dependent non-Debye kind of relaxation process in the material. From the Cole-Cole plots measured at high temperatures, reveals that the grain effect in the all Ce-doped samples. Impedance analysis studies also support the X-ray diffraction and dielectric studies that occupation of Ce both at A-site and B-site for small values of Ce doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, natural fibres are used as a reinforcing material in polymer composites, owing to severe environmental concerns. Among many different types of natural resources, kenaf plants have been extensively exploited over the past few years. In this experimental study, partially eco-friendly hybrid composites were fabricated by using kenaf and glass fibres with two different fibre orientations of 0° and 90°. The mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural and impact strengths of these composites have been evaluated. From the experiment, it was observed that the composites with the 0° fibre orientation can withstand the maximum tensile strength of 49.27 MPa, flexural strength of 164.35 MPa, and impact strength of 6 J. Whereas, the composites with the 90° fibre orientation hold the maximum tensile strength of 69.86 MPa, flexural strength of 162.566 MPa and impact strength of 6.66 J. The finite element analysis was carried out to analyse the elastic behaviour of the composites and to predict the mechanical properties by using NX Nastran 9.0 software. The experimental results were compared with the predicted values and a high correlation between the results was observed. The morphology of the fractured surfaces of the composites was analysed using a scanning electron microscopy analysis. The results indicated that the properties were in the increasing trend and comparable with pure synthetic fibre reinforced composites, which shows the potential for hybridization of kenaf fibre with glass fibre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Subcutaneous mycoses are chronic, localized infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue which occur following traumatic implantation of the etiological agent. The causative organisms are soil saprophytes of regional epidemiology with varying ability to adapt to the tissue environment and elicit disease. Objectives This study was conducted to evaluate the various types of subcutaneous mycoses, including actinomycotic mycetomas, in south coastal Karnataka, India. Methods Between January 2005 and January 2013, a total of 25 patients were diagnosed with subcutaneous mycoses based on a detailed clinical history and presentation, histopathology, and culture of organisms. Results Chromoblastomycosis was the infection most commonly seen (n = 16 patients, 64%), followed by mycetoma (n = 4, 16%), sporotrichosis (n = 4, 16%), and rhinoentomophthoromycosis (n = 1, 4%). The extremities were the most common site of involvement, with the lower limb being most affected (64%). Males were more commonly afflicted (64%) than females (36%). Most patients were agricultural workers, although preceding trauma was noted in only three patients. The majority of patients responded well to therapy and were disease-free on follow-up. Conclusions Subcutaneous mycoses are a rare group of disorders. Chromoblastomycosis is the most frequent subcutaneous fungal infection in south India. Morphologically, chromomoblastomycoses present as verrucous, ulcerative, nodular, or eczematous lesions. Clinical diagnosis is important as culture is often negative. The incidence of infection is higher among rubber tappers. It is important to clinically differentiate chromoblastomycosis from tuberculosis verrucosa cutis. Most of the subcutaneous mycoses respond well to treatment, with the exception of rhinoentomophthoromycosis, which is a rare form of deep mycosis with associated mutilation. Eumycetomas are not observed in this part of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous leishmaniasis and leprosy are diseases both caused by intracellular pathogens that represent a major health predicament even today. Both these diseases have some characteristics in common, such as the involvement of mucocutaneous tissue, a course with a chronic granulomatous response, a broad clinical spectrum in relation to the host's immunity, and they often affect the poor population in tropical countries. Co-infection of the two diseases, although known to occur, is rarely encountered and reported. Even though new cases of leprosy are diagnosed in the region of coastal Karnataka of India, cutaneous leishmaniasis is rarely reported. We hereby describe a patient who presented with concurrent leprosy and diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article evaluates the efforts underway in India to achieve universal health care coverage and the conditions that fostered its contemporary evolution. It finds that India's health system is characterized by private provision and financing, horizontal and vertical fragmentation, and weak governance arrangements. The article argues that these defining characteristics, which have solidified over time, account for poor health outcomes and make the system impervious to reforms as they deny the government levers to intervene and shape outcomes in the sector. While the government's recent efforts of increased public funding of national programmes have helped to reduce out of pocket spending, these are unlikely to work in the long run unless the government addresses the sources of the problems. The article argues that building health care governance, strengthening regulatory architecture, and stewardship over the system, in conjunction with increased public spending, are essential if the health care system is to provide affordable care to the entire population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a simple combination reaction between zinc nitrate and leaf extract of Anisochilus carnosus to prepare ZnO nanoparticles. The synthesized NPs subjected to structural, optical, and morphological analyses. The structural analysis demonstrates that the prepared ZnO NPs are crystalline and exhibit hexagonal wurtzite structure. Further, the photocatalytic performance of the ZnO tested against the methylene blue (MB) dye under UV radiation has significant photodegradation. The antibacterial activities of the prepared products analyzed against some selected human pathogens showed excellent results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In spite of the progress made in the treatment of psychiatric disorders during the last few decades, nonadherence continues to be a frequent phenomenon, often associated with potentially severe clinical consequences and increased health-care costs. There are numerous factors associated with medication nonadherence in patients with mental illness. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence and factors associated with medication nonadherence among psychiatric outpatients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the outpatient psychiatric department of an Indian tertiary care private hospital over a period of 1 year. Patients aged 18 years and above who presented with mental illness as diagnosed by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 and who were receiving at least one psychotropic medication for at least 1 month were included in the study. Medication adherence was assessed using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS). Results: Of the 400 patients, 172 (43%) were nonadherent to their prescribed medications. There is a statistically significant association between the education (P = 0.001), number of drugs (P = 0.002), family income (P = 0.013), and nonadherence. Among the 172 patients, 33.5 % were nonadherent to their therapy due to patient-related factors followed by drug-related factors (32%) and disease-related factors (31%). Conclusion: The overall incidence of medication nonadherence in patients with mental illness was 43%. Numerous factors contributed to medication nonadherence. Strategies need to be developed and implemented to enhance medication adherence, and thereby achieve a better therapeutic outcome in patients with mental illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue polyamine levels are largely determined by the activity of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC, EC 4.1.17), which catalyzes the conversion of ornithine to the diamine putrescine. The activity of the enzyme is primarily regulated by a negative feedback mechanism involving ODC antizyme (AZ). Our previous studies demonstrated that AZ synthesis is stimulated by the absence of amino acids, the levels of which are sensed by the mTOR complex containing TORC1, which is stimulated by amino acids and inhibited by their absence, and TORC2 the function of which is not well defined. Polyamines, which cause a + 1 ribosomal frameshift during the translation of AZ mRNA are required to increase AZ synthesis in both the presence and absence of amino acids. Amino acid starvation increases TORC2 activity. We have demonstrated that mTORC2 activity is necessary for AZ synthesis in the absence of amino acids. Tuberous sclerosis protein (TSC), a negative regulator of mTOR function regulates the activities of both the TORC1 and TORC2. TSC2 knockdown increased mTORC1 activity with concomitant inhibition of mTORC2 activity eliminating AZ induction in the absence of amino acids as well as that induced by spermidine. Thus, these results clearly demonstrate that in addition to polyamines, mTORC2 activity is necessary for AZ synthesis. Moreover, our results support a role for mTORC2 in the synthesis of a specific protein, AZ, which regulates growth of intestinal epithelial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the paper is to assess the usefulness of conceptions of different modes of governance for understanding policy outcomes by studying the experience with hierarchical and non-hierarchical governance modes in the health care sector in China, India, and Thailand. The paper shows their experience with non-hierarchical modes to have been largely disappointing and that all three, but especially Thailand, are in the process of reverting to a more hierarchical mode of service delivery. The conclusion from this study is that non-hierarchical governance is not a substitute for or an improvement upon hierarchical governance in health care due to the many market and government failures that afflict the sector and affect the ability of different governance modes to function effectively. The hierarchical mode of government is also imperfect but less so than the alternatives in delivering health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2015, to enhance the development of agriculture-based income of small and marginal farmers through sustainable irrigation sources, restoration of 27,472 tanks on massive scale was initiated by the Government of Telangana with people's participation. Ground water department monitored water levels and water quality of 172 wells identified from 9 overstressed watersheds in the state and studied the impact of tank restoration on groundwater regime for 6 years. Well hydrographs of monitoring wells reflect a rising trend of 0.80 m/year to 2.87 m/year in different watersheds with an average of 1.27 m/year. The trends have demonstrated an 19% more rise (average) in the influence zone as compared to the wells in non-influence zone. A significant improvement in groundwater quality in the influence zone was observed as the concentration of total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride (Cl−), nitrate (NO3−) decreased in the range of 5.8 to 91.1 mg/l/year (average, 7.7 mg/l/year); 1.4 to 33.1 mg/l/year (average, 5.3 mg/l/year) and 0.9 to 16.9 mg/l/year (average, 3.6 mg/l/year) respectively, while the bicarbonate (HCO3−) showed significant increasing trend ranging from 1.3 to 47.2 mg/l/year (average, 16.6 mg/l/year). HCO3−/Cl− ratios suggest more freshening of groundwater in tank influence zones than in non-influence zones. The tank restoration programme increased groundwater storage and thus provided an increase in land and agricultural productivity. It is recommended to bring policy initiatives for taking up such massive tank restoration programmes in similar geoenvironments by involving people at the village level, to sustain the long-term positive impact and to address the water requirements of people all over the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

0.8BaTiO3–0.2Bi0.5K0.5TiO3 (BT–BKT20) lead-free ceramics were prepared by conventional solid state reaction method followed by high energy ball milling. The formation of a single phase tetragonal structure in the material was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Frequency and temperature-dependent dielectric studies show relaxor behavior in the BT–BKT20 which was found to obey modified Curie–Weiss law with degree of diffuseness 1.573. Complex impedance and electric modulus spectroscopy studies reveal temperature-dependent relaxation process in the material. The Cole–Cole plots were measured at high temperatures at which grain effect was observed. Impedance and electric modulus spectroscopy studies show non-Debye kind of conductivity relaxation process in the present material. Activation energies were calculated from impedance and electric modulus spectroscopy and the values of activation energy indicated that the conduction is ionic in nature. AC and DC conductivity have been measured and studied at different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A selective extraction–spectrophotometric method has been developed for determination of selenium(IV) usingO-methoxyphenyl thiourea (OMePT) as a chelating agent. The basis of the proposed method is the spectrophotometric determination of selenium(IV)–OMePT complex obtained after extraction of selenium(IV) from 3.5 M hydrochloric acid media using OMePT in chloroform solvent. The complex shows maximum absorbance at 350 nm against the reagent blank. The Beer’s law was obeyed over the concentration range 5–60 µg mL−1of selenium(IV). The optimum concentration range was 20–50 µg mL−1as evaluated from Ringbom’s plot. The molar absorptivity and Sandell’s sensitivity of the selenium(IV)–OMePT complex in chloroform were 3.312 × 102L mol−1cm−1and 0.2384 µg cm−2, respectively. The composition of selenium(IV)–OMePT complex was 1:2 established from slope ratio method, mole ratio method and Job’s continuous variation method. The complex was stable for more than 72 h. The interfering effect of various foreign ions was studied and suitable masking agents were used wherever necessary to enhance the selectivity of the developed method. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of selenium(IV) from real samples, viz. pharmaceutical formulations, shampoo, vegetable sample, synthetic mixtures and environmental samples. Repetition of the method was checked by finding the relative standard deviation (RSD) for 10 determinations which was 0.35%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide have been produced via a simple green method from zinc nitrate and leaf extract aqueous solutions. Prepared ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were investigated by employing through UV–Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), field emission-scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM), respectively. The present investigation, confirmed the estimated band gap 3.51 eV and the PL intensity at 402 nm in visible region are dependent upon the geometrical shape and size of the ZnO NPs. The TEM micrograph and XRD pattern confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO NPs. The presence of functional groups and the chemical bonding are confirmed by FTIR spectra. EDS shows that the highly pure ZnO nanostructures. Moreover, the catalytic activity of synthesized ZnO in the reduction of methylene blue was studied by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The effects of process conditions on the morphology and size of ZnO have been found from FE-SEM and TEM analyses, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]