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The goal of this study was to validate the analytical technique for determining the immediate development of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in various Indian seafood products. According to Commission Regulation (EC) 333/2007, various marine foods, including crustaceans, cephalopods, and fish species, were employed for the validation of the developed method by ICP-MS. HNO3 and H2O2 were combined to prepare the sample during microwave digestion. Specificity/selectivity, linearity, LOD, LOQ, precision-repeatability and reproducibility, accuracy-recovery, robustness, and fitness studies were used to validate the approach. The maximum RSD value and Horrat value (HorRat) for the within-lab reproducibility for all analytes (Pb, Cd, Hg, and As) in marine food were 5% and 1 respectively. The mean recovery for all analytes examined at three spiking levels (0.5, 1 & 1.5 of the permitted limit) was between 92.67 and 107.33%.Whereas limit of detection (LOD) values for Pb, Cd, Hg and As were 0.018 μg/g, 0.032 μg/g, 0.031 μg/g and 0.034 mg/kg for repeatability 6% and <1 respectively. 0.061 μg/g, 0.127 μg/g, 0.0.103 μg/g and 0.101 μg/g respectively, were the limit of quantitation (LOQ) values. At a 95% confidence level, the method's relative extended measurement uncertainty (k=2) was 9%. In fact, the developed method's precision was examined by taking part in LGC proficiency testing (round 253, sample 742); the outcomes (Z score, i.e. < 1) showed that this analytical method could be used for the routine analysis of these four toxic metals in seafood with acceptable analytical performance in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A longitudinal study was conducted to investigate the dynamics of genotype-specific (G6 and P[5]) antibody response to different doses (3, 2 and 1) of rotavirus C (RVC) natural planned exposure (NPE) in gilt serum, colostrum/milk and piglet serum, and compare with antibody response to rotavirus A NPE (RVA genotypes G4, G5, P[7] and P[23]). G6 and P[5] antigens of RVC were expressed in mammalian and bacterial cells, and used to develop individual indirect ELISAs. For both antigens, group 1 with 3 doses of NPE resulted in significantly higher IgG and IgA levels in colostrum compared to other groups. In piglet serum, group 1 P[5] IgG levels were significantly higher than other study groups at day 0 and 7. Piglet serum had higher IgA levels for group 1 piglets compared to other groups for both antigens. A comparison of colostrum antibody levels to rotavirus A (RVA) and RVC revealed that colostrum RVC IgG and IgA titers were lower than RVA titers irrespective of the G and P-type. Next generation sequencing (NGS) detected same RVC genotypes (G6 and P[5]) circulating in the piglet population under the window of lactogenic immunity. We conclude that the low RVC load in NPE material (real-time PCR Ct-values 32.55, 29.32 and 30.30) failed to induce sufficient maternal immunity in gilts (low colostrum RVC antibody levels) and passively prevent piglets from natural RVC infection in the farrowing room. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study comparing differences in antibody response to porcine RVA and RVC in a commercial setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus has become a major public health concern all over the world. Vildagliptin is one of the antidiabeticdrug that can overcome the existing problem of this prevalent disease. Present study aims to synthesize and investigate the role of vildagliptin-loaded core-shell nanoparticle of grafted psyllium and alginate (VG@P/A-NPs) in anti-diabetes application. FTIR, SEM, XRD, 13CNMR and zeta analyzer were used for characterization of the core-shell nanoparticles (VG@P/A-NPs). The synthesized acrylamide-grafted-psyllium was also optimized through varying grafting parameters such as acrylamide and ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) concentration, time and temperature to obtain the maximum yield of acrylamide-grafted-psyllium. Rheological analysis of pure psyllium, grafted psyllium and alginate were also performed. For biological studies, the first cytotoxicity of grafted psyllium and VG@P/A-NPs were examined on human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 in which it was observed that VG@P/A-NPs did not exhibited any toxicity. The antidiabetic potential of VG@P/A-NPs was investigated by glucose uptake assay, using TNF-α induced insulin resistance skeletal cell model using mouse muscle L6 cell line. The insulin signaling impaired cell line displayed a highly significant (p < 0.0001) dose-dependent increase in glucose uptake after treatment with increasing doses of VG@P/A-NPs.The drug release behavior of VG@P/A-NPs was examined at various pH and the highest drug release (98 %) was obtained at pH (7.4). The drug release kinetic data was following the Higuchi (R2 = 0.9848) kinetic model, suggesting the release of drug from vildagliptin-loaded grafted psyllium-alginate core-shell nanoparticles (VG@P/A-NPs) as a square root of time-dependent process and diffusion controlled. This study provides an economical and environment-friendly approach towards the synthesis of VG@P/A-NPs with antidiabetes applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is known as a metabolovirus due to its impact on lipid and glucose metabolism in the liver. Previous literature showed a trend of hypolipidemia and reduced risk of metabolic syndrome in hepatitis B surface antigen-positive patients. However, data from the Indian population are lacking. We evaluate the relation of lipid profile with HBV infection and severity of liver disease. Materials and Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study in which 50 patients with chronic hepatitis B and 43 anthropometrically matched seronegative controls were enrolled. Demographical, clinical, and laboratory data including lipid profile (high-density lipoprotein [HDL], low-density lipoprotein [LDL], triglycerides, and total cholesterol [TC]) were collected. Seropositive patients were categorized based on prognostic models (model for end-stage liver disease [MELD] and Child-Pugh score) for further analysis. Results: Our study revealed significant low levels of serum TC, HDL, and LDL cholesterol in hepatitis B patients compared to seronegative controls (133.06 vs. 162.39, 35.56 vs. 43.65, and 76.62 vs. 99.95 mg/dl respectively, P < 0.05). The patients with high MELD and Child-Pugh score were associated with hypolipidemia. Significant low levels of LDL and TC were observed in Child-Pugh class C in comparison to class A (94.8 vs. 149.2 and 50.6 vs. 87.9 mg/dl respectively, P < 0.05). Conclusions: A significant reduction in various lipid parameters was seen with chronic hepatitis B. Furthermore, prognostic score (high MELD and Child-Pugh score) were associated with hypolipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coke reactivity index and coke strength after reaction traditionally evaluated by reacting coke with carbon dioxide in standard condition. Several testing standard/methods viz., American society for testing and materials, Japan Industrial Standard, Bureau of Indian Standards, and International Organization Standard exists, which are used worldwide to measure the hot strength of metallurgical coke. In the Indian operation of Iron and steel plants, coke strength after reaction is a vital coke quality parameter for assessing the relative strength of coke for the blast furnace-efficient operation. The mentioned testing methodology is lengthy and takes significant time (~7 h) to complete a single test. Consequently, it needs to develop a method for the coke reactivity index, predicting almost real-time data. A newly developed methodology by infrared gas analyzer was used for developed and validated with coke oven plant coke samples. Result confirmed that the predicted and measured coke CRI with the Nippon Steel Corporation method has a strong positive relationship (R2 = 0.92). The results also confirmed the interrelationship between the predicted and actual coke CSR. The developed model can provide a real-time coke reactivity index and estimate the coke CSR within 10 min of reaction time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate water resource management is essential for fulfilling ecosystem and human needs. Nainital Lake is a popular lake in Uttarakhand State in India, attracting lakhs of tourists annually. Locals also use the lake water for domestic purposes and irrigation. The increasing impact of climate change and over-exploration of water from lakes make their regular monitoring key to implementing effective conservation measures and preventing substantial degradation. In this study, dynamic change in the water spread area of Nainital Lake from 2001 to 2018 has been investigated using the multiband rationing indices, namely normalized difference water index (NDWI), modified normalized difference water index (MNDWI), and water ratio index (WRI). The model has been developed in QGIS 3.4 software. A physical GPS survey of the lake was conducted to check the accuracy of these indices. Furthermore, to determine the trend in water surface area for a studied period, a non-parametric Mann–Kendall test was used. San's slope estimator test determined the magnitude of the trend and total percentage change. The result of the physical survey shows that NDWI was the best method, with an accuracy of 96.94%. Hence, the lake water spread area trend is determined based on calculated NDWI values. The lake water spread area significantly decreased from March to June and July to October at a 5% significance level. The maximum decrease in water spread area has been determined from March to June (7.7%), which was followed by the period July to October (4.67%) and then November to February (2.79%). The study results show that the lake's water spread area decreased sharply for the analyzed period. The study might be helpful for the government, policymakers, and water experts to make plans for reclaiming and restoring Nainital Lake. This study is very helpful in states such as Uttarakhand, where physical mapping is not possible every time due to its tough topography and climate conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of bromoform to carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom multiple bonds has gathered interest from the synthetic community as it leads to brominated molecules that find applications in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and radiolabeled agents. The chemistry of di- and tri-brominated functionalized olefins remains scarcely explored. It may be due to their high steric demand and their propensity to form halogen bonds. The addition of bromoform to olefins in the presence of protic bases and a phase-transfer catalyst is well-established. However, their metal-mediated versions leading to new brominated compounds did not receive much attention. The addition of bromoform mediated by metals provides an opportunity to construct various synthetic intermediates and understand the underlying mechanistic aspects. Herein, we present the approaches reported in the last two decades on the bromocyclopropanation, atom transfer radical additions, hydroalkylations, and conjugate additions of bromoform to electron-rich and electron-deficient olefins under metal-mediated conditions. These approaches are expected to set the stage for hitherto unexplored asymmetric transformations and synthesis of complex molecules, including natural products, involving metal-mediated bromoform addition as the key step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The appropriate specification of size analysis of blast furnace coke remains debatable even today. But operators prefer consistent quality and the right size of coke for the smooth operation of the blast furnace. The arithmetic mean size (AMS) of coke and its distribution inside the blast furnace are essential for maintaining the efficient operation of the blast furnace. The coke AMS is significantly affecting the blast furnace permeability, not a small extent. Therefore, the proper sizing of coke inside the blast furnace can contribute to the increase in production of a blast furnace with the optimal coke rates. However, limited methods that incorporate process parameters and blend properties in the prediction of coke AMS exists. The present work focuses on the assessing of coke AMS using an algorithm on plant process data like parent coal characteristics, carbonization, and operational conditions that can influence coke properties like the mean size of the coke. This work using classification and regression tree (CART) and random forest algorithms provide the basis to futuristic prediction model using process and coal blend parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on hybrid vesicles (HVs) formed through co-assembly of soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC) and a triblock copolymer (F127). After elucidating the superior stability of HVs over the assemblies of neat SPC and F127, these were encapsulated with bovine serum albumin (BSA), as model a thermolabile protein. Characterizations were performed using dynamic light scattering (DLS), electron microscopy, circular dichroism and high-sensitivity differential scanning calorimetry. The size of HVs increased slightly at higher proportion of F127 and upon encapsulation of BSA. In spite of this, vesicles remained spherical and displayed a smooth surface. They showed superior dilution stability in comparison to neat copolymer micelles and phospholipid vesicles. Their stability can be ascribed to hydrophobic association between the phospholipid and copolymer, and manifested into increase in phase transition temperature of the former. We found that HVs could protect BSA from denaturation and unfolding when challenged by high solution temperature, pH changes and salt incorporation. [Display omitted] • F127 associates with soy phosphatidylcholine to form spherical hybrid vesicles. • Vesicles were loaded with bovine serum albumin (BSA), a model protein. • The protective ability of vesicles has been demonstrated against various challenges. • Characterizations have been performed using scattering, thermal and spectroscopic techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconium alloys (Zr-alloys) are used for the core components of nuclear reactors due to their exceptional properties, which make them suitable for the given applications such as low neutron absorption cross-section, good corrosion resistance, good wear resistance, good mechanical stability at high temperatures etc. The coolant water that flows inside the pressure tube contains LiOH to control the pH value of the coolant water, which can cause corrosion. The flow of coolant water produces low amplitude vibration, which can cause fretting wear of the components. Further, the coolant water at high temperature causes the hydride formation in the material, degrading the properties of zirconium alloys. The safe working of nuclear reactors is the prime objective, and the corrosion and wear behavior of the core components must be explored to prevent possible failure. Fretting wear or tribo-corrosion experiments were conducted on Zr‐2.5Nb alloy against SS-410 for varied fretting duration to understand the tribological response. Electrochemical corrosion experiments were performed under the aqueous solution of LiOH (10.4 pH) using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization technique. The comparison was made between the tribological and corrosion response of unhydrided‐Zr‐2.5Nb alloy (Zr‐2.5Nb) and hydrided- Zr‐2.5Nb alloy (Zr‐2.5Nb‐H). The hydride formation causes the reduction in corrosion resistance of Zr‐2.5Nb alloy. The oxide layer is formed during the wear and corrosion process which protects the material from further wear and corrosion respectively. [Display omitted] • Tribological and electrochemical corrosion analysis were performed on hydrided‐Zr‐2.5Nb and unhydrided-Zr-2.5Nb alloy. • Tribological experiments were conducted in two modes: microtribology (fretting) and nanotribology (AFM). • The hardness and tribo-response of hydrides (Zr-H) and Zr-matrix were recorded using nanoindentation and AFM, respectively. • The hydride formation in Zr-2.5Nb increases the corrosion rate. • The corrosion resistance increases with increasing the exposure duration due to protective oxide formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the role of creativity in influencing consumer responses is well explored in research related to marketer-generated content, it has yet to be examined for consumer-generated online reviews. Across two studies (a text analysis of 33,508 online reviews and an experiment), this research examines the influence of creativity in online review narratives on readers' perceptions of review helpfulness. The results from these studies show that: 1. more creative reviews are evaluated as more helpful than less creative reviews, 2. perceived cognitive effort of the review originator mediates this relationship, but perceived sincerity of the review does not, and 3. product type moderates the relationship, such that greater creativity positively impacts perceived helpfulness of reviews for search products but has a negative effect for experience products. • Creative product reviews are perceived as more helpful than less creative ones. • Perceived cognitive effort is higher for creative reviews vs. less creative ones. • Perceived cognitive effort mediates the review creativity–helpfulness relationship. • Creativity positively affects perceived helpfulness of search product reviews. • Creativity negatively affects perceived helpfulness of experience product reviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study presents an extensive systematic literature review on WD recognition. • A set of 94 research articles published between 2005–2022 has been selected for analysis. • A framework has been proposed to classify the research articles into four categories. Due to wheat diseases (WD), the global rate of wheat production is decreasing by 3.6% annually. With the help of computer vision technology, WD recognition is not a challenging task but motivates the concepts of image processing, image segmentation, feature extraction, and AI-based recognition models. The objective of this study is to review and systematically analyze studies that have been published between 2005 and 2022. The authors make an effort to determine the important developments in image segmentation models, tools, datasets, and comparative analysis for the accuracy of the recognition model. The current study follows the standard systematic literature review (SLR) approach and selects 638 studies from five different web source databases. Among 638 studies, 544 studies were discarded in the study extraction process. A total number of 94 studies have been published in 45 reputed journals, and 49 conferences that have been identified with evaluation, validation, proposed, and philosophical criteria. After analysis, ten types of image segmentation models were identified. The most prominent clustering-based image segmentation technique (34.78%) is used for powdery mildew and stripe rust WD recognition. During WD recognition, the accuracy performance parameter is found to be most prominent. China and India are the two countries on the Asian continent that contribute to WD recognition. The current study summarizes the findings of WD research and highlights the need for standard datasets and accuracy. It highlights the importance of exploring and developing more precise and hybrid segmentation classification models for WD recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The real-world problems that can be resolved by a dynamic mathematical model is an analogous form of a complex integral equation. In this article, we intend to exhibit the solution to a non-homogeneous, nonlinear Volterra integral equation endowed with an arbitrary binary relation utilizing the fixed point solution that is originally proved for a multivalued map and then reduced to a single valued self map. The results proved and the application demonstrated is an added asset to the present literature and can significantly contribute in determining the existence of a solution for a dynamic mathematical model in the form of a Volterra integral equation equipped with an arbitrary binary relation via fixed point findings. Furthermore, the stability of the solution of the Volterra integral equation is verified using the Hyers–Ulam stability concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a simple molecular imprinting technique for the quantitative measurement of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is reported for the first time through colorimetry. LPA is a phospholipid bioactive involved in many physiological and pathological processes like stimulating DNA synthesis, proliferating ovarian cancer and inducing cell migration. It is reported that the concentration of LPA in patients with gynecological cancers like ovarian cancer is considerably higher than in the control. The early diagnosis of ovarian cancer may exceed the survival rate of patients. There is a need for an analytical tool for point of care detection of ovarian cancer at an early stage. Herein, molecular imprinting technique is used to develop an imprinted β‐Cyclodextrin (β‐CD) polymer using LPA as a template. This MIP prepared was imprinted with an LPA cavity, which has been extended for colorimetry assay. The colorimetric LPA assay was conducted in the spiked blood serum sample. The detection limit of LPA in spiked serum samples is calculated as 0.078 μmol/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. Serine‐arginine rich splicing factor 3 (SRSF3) plays a critical role in hepatocyte function and its loss in mice promotes chronic liver damage and leads to HCC. Hepatocyte‐specific SRSF3 knockout mice (SKO mice) also overexpress insulin‐like growth factor 2 (IGF2). In the present study, double deletion of Igf2 and Srsf3 (DKO mice) prevents hepatic fibrosis and inflammation, and completely prevents tumor formation, and is associated with decreased proliferation, apoptosis and DNA damage, and restored DNA repair enzyme expression. This is confirmed in vitro, where IGF2 treatment of HepG2 hepatoma cells decreases DNA repair enzyme expression and causes DNA damage. Tumors from the SKO mice also show mutational signatures consistent with homologous recombination and mismatch repair defects. Analysis of frozen human samples shows that SRSF3 protein is decreased sixfold in HCC compared to normal liver tissue but SRSF3 mRNA is increased. Looking at public TCGA data, HCC patients having high SRSF3 mRNA expression show poor survival, as do patients with alterations in known SRSF3‐dependent splicing events. The results indicate that IGF2 overexpression in conjunction with reduced SRSF3 splicing activity could be a major cause of DNA damage and driver of liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cornmint (Mentha arvensis) is cultivated to produce essential oil, which consists of about 75% of menthol. Fresh biomass is hydrodistilled for ∼5 h to obtain essential oil (1%), and the rest of the pre-treated biomass (99%) is generated as waste. A novel, green and economical two-step process has been developed using a mixture of imidazole (IM:1 M)-p-toluene sulfonic acid (pTSA:1.2 M), and IM (0.2 M)-20%NH 3 for the separation of lignin and hemicellulose, respectively. The lignin and hemicellulose were isolated from the respective solution by precipitation, and final undissolved solid residue was obtained as cellulose. This process was scaled-up, recovering cellulose (38%), hemicellulose (27%), and lignin (14%) using 7 L double jacketed reactor. The processing parameters such as temperature, solvent ratio, and time were optimized using single factorial design mathematical model for the isolation of biopolymers. Further, cellulose was enzymatically biotransformed to glucose through submerged and solid-state fermentation (SSF) using Trichoderma reesei, T. harzianum (TH, TH10) , and T. atroviride. Isolated cellulose was produced 61.5% of glucose at 30 °C, pH 5 in 72 h through SSF process using TH10 strain. This glucose solution was transformed to methyl levulinate (74%) under aqueous-methanol (5:1) solvent system for 2 h at 160 °C using La(OTf) 3.H 2 O catalyst. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ensuring high reliability and availability of draglines is imperative for the economic sustainability of a highly productive surface mining project. Draglines are very complex in design and consist of hundreds of components. Reliability modelling of a large complex system is difficult with conventional reliability analysis techniques. The dragging mechanism is a critical subsystem for the smooth operation of the draglines. This study uses the Bayesian Network (BN) model, mapped from the Fault Tree (FT), for the reliability analysis of Dragline. Sensitivity analysis identifies the critical components – helpful information for reliability management. The results demonstrate that three components of the dragging mechanism, namely, the drag motor system, drag brake and drag socket are primarily responsible for the poor reliability of the case study system. This study provides valuable information for maintenance planning of operating draglines and reliability blueprint of future dragline design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: As allergic disorders are increasing across all age groups, we aim to detect the common offending allergens in various allergic disorders with respiratory, gastrointestinal, or skin manifestations in children between the age group of 2 months and 18 years from the northern part of India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted in patients aged between 2 months and 18 years residing in North India having allergic symptoms such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, the combination of allergic rhinitis and asthma, eczema, urticaria, or gastrointestinal symptoms. All the patients underwent skin prick tests (SPTs) for different allergens, which were selected on the basis of history. RESULTS: A total of 458 patients were enrolled in the study with male: female ratio of 1.7:1. Based on the results of SPT, the most common offending allergens in different allergic manifestations were shortlisted. Patients with respiratory system involvement, the common allergens were house dust mites (HDM) and cockroaches, followed by mosquitoes. Most of the patients with gastrointestinal symptoms have sensitization due to egg white, followed by soybean flour. In children having skin manifestations, sensitization to HDM was most commonly seen. HDM is also responsible in patients having two system involvement such as respiratory with skin and respiratory with gastrointestinal whereas the groundnut was responsible in patients having gastrointestinal along with skin manifestations. CONCLUSION: This study contributed in delineating the most prevalent offending allergens in children of North India with various allergic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: There is no consensus for palliative chemotherapy regimen in metastatic gallbladder cancer. We did a retrospective study to compare the treatment outcome in patients of metastatic gallbladder cancer treated with either gemcitabine + cisplatin (regimen A) or oral capecitabine (regimen B) alone.Subjects and Methods: A total of 67 patients between January 2015 and September 15 treated with either regimen A or regimen B were retrospectively evaluated. Statistical analysis was done in June 2019. Kaplan-Meir and Log rank test were used to compare survival between two arms.Results: Out of 67 patients, 31/67 (46%) received regimen A, and 36/67 (54%) received regimen B. Male to female ratio was 1:3. About 42% patients in regimen A and 20% in regimen B required palliative stenting. Median number of chemotherapy cycles was 4 in both regimen A (range 1->6) and regimen B (range 1->6). Patients receiving 3 cycles and 6 cycles of chemotherapy in regimen A and regimen B was 68% and 31% versus 70% and 63%, respectively (P = 0.86). Response assessment as any response (complete response + partial response + disease was stable) after 3 cycles and 6 cycles was 71% and 57% (P = 0.20), 44% and 39% (P = 0.29), in regimen A and B, respectively. Median survival was 23 weeks (range 2-106 weeks) in regimen A and 15 weeks (range 4-83 weeks) in regimen B (P = 0.40).Conclusions: The present study shows gemcitabine and cisplatin has nonsignificant better survival compared to oral capecitabine. However, oral capecitabine is more convenient and easy to administer. Studies with larger sample size are needed to further establish the standard chemotherapy guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The clinical spectrum of systemic nocardiosis encompasses pulmonary and disseminated disease. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is an important feature of disseminated disease with significant mortality and high relapse rate, especially in those with suppressed cell-mediated immunity. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and outcome in patients with CNS nocardiosis.Methods: A literature search was performed in major databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus) by using distinct keywords: "CNS disease," "Nocardia," "meningitis," "brain abscess," "disseminated disease," and "Cotrimoxazole." We included all patients ≥18 years with CNS nocardiosis reported between January 2000 and December 2020.Results: A total of 129 papers were included in the final analysis. The mean age of patients was 55 ± 16 years, and the majority were male (70.8%). Nocardia farcinica was the commonest species (39.6%), followed by Nocardia nova (5.9%). Thirty-four percent of the patients were found to be immunocompetent. Corticosteroid use was the most common predisposing factor (55.8%). Among neuroimaging findings, brain abscess was most common (86.9%), followed by leptomeningeal enhancement (12.1%). The overall case-fatality rate in CNS disease was 22.8%. On multivariate analysis, patients who underwent surgery (OR 2.4, 95% CI 0.99-4.11, p value 0.046) had better survival than those treated with antimicrobial therapy alone. Immunodeficient state (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.15-0.90, p value 0.019) was independently associated with poor outcome.Conclusion: CNS nocardiosis carries significant mortality, especially in immunodeficient patients. We advocate the use of surgery combined with antimicrobials to improve clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Nowadays the whole world is striving to achieve energy security and sustainable development through sustainable utilization of cleaner energy resources. But due to the rapidly rising population caused by the unprecedented urban development, it has created imbalances of energy supply and demand. Hybrid energy systems have emerged as a promising source to augment existing energy infrastructure for sustainable energy supply and to reduce the impact of challenges posed by the energy scarcities. There have been continuous requests from the urban sector for additional energy resources, but the energy generation involves a complex phenomenon. In India also, there are abundances of rising energy demands from various sectors over the regions, and these demands cannot be fulfilled further due to the limitations of the energy generation grids. As a result, an approach is required to offer additional energy resources beyond the use of diesel generator (which increases environmental pollution). Recently due advancement in hybrid energy systems consisting of non‐renewable & renewable or renewable & renewable or non‐renewable & non‐renewable, it provides a scope to understand the various configuration of the hybrid energy system for past trends, present status and future scenarios. The investment in energy technologies is critical to be evaluated with techno‐economic feasibility analysis for resource efficiency optimization. Hence, the main objective of this work is to propose an optimal system configuration for urban residential standalone hybrid energy systems to fulfil the electrical energy requirement, which is technically and economically reliable & feasible. The current work accounts for scaling up the existing energy system with proper implementation. The simulations results show that expected average energy requirements of 5 kWh/day with a peak of 818 W for a typical household can be met with proposed configuration (with components like solar PV, wind turbine, power generator [diesel] and battery backup system). The data simulation and optimization technique for a monthly profile of wind, solar, and excess energy generation over HOMER simulation toolkit offer the potential to generate excess electricity of 19.3%. Techno‐economic assessment of the system shows that the proposed system offers more economical and performance benefits. This study also articulates the need to propose a better energy system structure with basic energy grid extension as a cost‐effective solution for sustainable development. Similar kind of assessment will offer a useful decision support system for tropical countries to guide future researchers in energy studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present investigation was to understand the efficacy of chlorophyll fluorescence analysis and to identify the specific photosynthetic parameters for early and rapid detection of Cu-induced HM-stress in plants. Aquatic angiosperm Lemna minor was exposed to various concentrations (0–40 µM) of Cu. We observed that the FV/FO (Efficiency of the water-splitting complex on the donor side of PSII), quantum yield for electron transport, and quantum yield of primary photochemistry were decreased however, dissipated quantum yield was increased with Cu concentration. ABS/CSM, TRO/CSM, ETO/CSM and maximum quantum yield were displayed the dose–response relationship under Cu stress. Performance indexes were increased initially due to the beneficial effects of Cu at lower concentration while decreased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) at highest concentration of Cu. The outcomes of the present research revealed that the ChlF analysis is very sensitive tool that can be used to determine the toxicity of heavy metals in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main motive of this paper is to prepare a newer composite material using non-conventional reinforcement (industrial waste) for various industrial applications. The aluminium alloy (Al-4032) matrix based composites (AMCs) have been fabricated through bottom pouring stir casting method. The granite powder (GP, ceramic particles) obtained from waste (normally available from construction site) has been used as reinforcement, at 0, 3, 6, 9 % by weight. The particle size of the reinforcement has been up to 54μm. The morphological (microstructure, SEM, XRD) and mechanical (tensile strength, micro-hardness, impact strength) characterization of the AMCs have been carried out. The morphological study reveals that the reinforcement particles (GP) are almost uniformly distributed throughout the matrix phase. The mechanical properties of the AMCs have been observed to be better than the unreinforced alloy. It is expected that the fabricated Al-4032-GP composites will be useful for the automobile parts like piston, disc brakes, high speed machinery and high-speed rotating parts etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review describes the synthesis of nanocomposite derivatives based on β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) using silver nanoparticles (NPs), gold NPs, magnetic NPs, carbon nanotubes, nanosheets, carbon dots and graphene oxide NPs. These nanocomposites were prepared by green synthesis method, chemical method, reduction method, thermal reduction, ultrasonication method and hydrothermal method. β‐CD is cyclic oligosaccharide consisting of seven glucose units linked by 1,4‐α‐glycosidic bonds. Its external surface is hydrophilic due to the substantial hydroxyl groups, and the interior is hydrophobic. β‐CD are useful in nanocomposites and metallic NPs because they provide nanoplatforms for biocompatibility. β‐CD is commonly used to change NPs because of their excellent biocompatibility, amphipathic properties and for enhancing the morphological and chemical features of nanocomposites. Thus, nanostructured materials based on β‐CD may enhance the potential for molecular recognition property which is a natural phenomenon and fundamentally important in chemistry and biology. The most important area in molecular recognition research is design and synthesis of model receptors (hosts) to recognize substrates (guests) of biochemical significance to mimic biological events. Because NPs have a high surface‐to‐volume ratio when combined with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). This review briefs the application and characterizations of β‐CD based nanocomposites derivatives in molecular recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recognition of object in remotely sensed images is a complex task. The immense research is running in the field of remote sensing due to the availability of high resolution satellite images. The detection of object is a challenging task due to the complex background and small object size in remotely sensed images. The object detection in remote sensing images has a vital role in the field of navigation, salvage, and military. The performance of traditional algorithms is very less due to the usage of handcrafted features. With the initiation of Deep Learning algorithms, various Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) based model have been utilized to detect the objects with high-resolution remotely sensed images. In this research paper various CNN based models has been compared and analyzed. Object detection approaches are broadly categorized in two ways-one based on the region matching and second based on the one-stage target detection. The researchers have compared the result of R-CNN, SPP Net , fast R-CNN, faster R-CNN, R-FCN, Mask R-CNN SSD (Single Shot Multibox Detector), DSSD (Deconvolution Single Shot Multibox Detector), FSSD , YOLO v1,YOLO v2, YOLO v3, Gaussian YOLO v3, RetinaNet which conclude that the minimal average precision for the region based category is best shown by Mask R-CNN with 39.8 mAP in the COCO parameter test and for the one stage detector YOLO v3 shows the best case for the COCO parameter test with 69.1 mAP. In the second phase of the review the researchers found that in comparison to the region based and one stage detector the YOLO v3 model from one stage detector shows the best detection precision percentage with the highest 87% in identifying the object called ship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the constitutive modeling for the tear fracture and its mechanical behavior of rubber with filler particles. A continuum mechanics-based analytical model is developed here to predict the mechanical properties of rubber with a suitably added filler. The model is then validated with the experimental results of the chloroprene and nitrile butadiene rubbers filled with different volume fractions of carbon black and carbon nanoparticles, respectively. Further, the tear fracture phenomenon of the filled rubber is modeled adopting a well-known Griffith criterion based on the developed constitutive model. The aimed tear fracture phenomenon is focused on a particular fracture test of mode-III, namely the trousers test, where two legs of a cut specimen are pulled horizontally apart. The results show that the fracture toughness of the filled rubber increases with the rise in the volume of filler particles. In general, the developed model will be helpful to the researchers in characterizing the material behavior of tires and other rubber-like materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the specific role of the interplay between hardening and disorder characteristics of a representative quasi-brittle material on its failure mechanisms using a random spring network model. The model incorporates quasi-brittleness in its spring constants and disorder in the failure strain threshold and is shown to be effective in simulating the experimentally observed tensile and fracture behaviour of a quasi-brittle epoxy resin-based polymer. It is shown that rapid localization of deformation and associated damage growth occurs for a weakly hardening solid while for a linear elastic material, damage nucleates at multiple independent sites, and there is significant growth of damage, independent of other nucleating sites, prior to maximum load. The failure mechanism is shown to crossover from an avalanche-dominated fracture for a linear elastic material to nucleation-dominated fracture for a weakly hardening material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs involved in many biological processes, including the immune pathways that control bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections. Pathogens probably modify host miRNAs to facilitate successful infection, so they might be useful targets for vaccination strategies. There are few data on differentially expressed miRNAs in the black-legged tick Ixodes scapularis after infection with Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease in the United States. Small RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR analysis were used to identify and validate differentially expressed I. scapularis salivary miRNAs. Small RNA-seq yielded 133,465,828 (≥18 nucleotides) and 163,852,135 (≥18 nucleotides) small RNA reads from Borrelia-infected and uninfected salivary glands for downstream analysis using the miRDeep2 algorithm. As such, 254 miRNAs were identified across all datasets, 25 of which were high confidence and 51 low confidence known miRNAs. Further, 23 miRNAs were differentially expressed in uninfected and infected salivary glands: 11 were upregulated and 12 were downregulated upon pathogen infection. Gene ontology and network analysis of target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs predicted roles in metabolic, cellular, development, cellular component biogenesis, and biological regulation processes. Several Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including sphingolipid metabolism; valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation; lipid transport and metabolism; exosome biogenesis and secretion; and phosphate-containing compound metabolic processes, were predicted as targets of differentially expressed miRNAs. A qRT-PCR assay was utilized to validate the differential expression of miRNAs. This study provides new insights into the miRNAs expressed in I. scapularis salivary glands and paves the way for their functional manipulation to prevent or treat B. burgdorferi infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a numerical investigation is done to understand the two-dimensional flow behaviorof power-law fluids past a rotating elliptic cylinder in unconfined domain. The flow field around the cylinder is calculated using ANSYS (FLUENT 15) The sliding mesh method (SMM) is used to treat moving solid–fluid boundary. The engineering parameters like drag coefficient, lift coefficient and complete kinematic variables such as stream function and vorticity have been calculated for the range of dimensionless parameters namely aspect ratio of the cylinder e = 0. 1 and 0.7, rotational speed (1 ≤ α ≤ 4), Reynolds number (5 ≤ R e ≤ 40) and power-law index (0. 4 ≤ n ≤ 1. 8). The emphasis has been given to see the effect of the power-law index (n) and Reynolds number (R e), rotational speed α and aspect ratio of cylinder e on flow characteristics around the cylinder in laminar flow regime. Before presenting the results, a qualitative as well as a quantitative comparison has been done between the present result and experimental and numerical result presented in the literature. Further, a detailed streamline and vorticity patterns in the vicinity of the cylinder is shown to demonstrate the wake formation phenomenon around the cylinder. The increase in rotational speed and power-law index exhibit a similar effect on wake formation phenomena. Due to rotational motion of the cylinder drag and lift coefficient vary in periodic manner with time/orientation of cylinder. The average value of drag is seen to decrease with R e and α and a complete trend is displayed with power-law index, n. The negative lift coefficient is observed due to anticlockwise motion of the cylinder for all parameters considered here. The results of this work clearly show the strong dependency of flow phenomenon around the rotating elliptic cylinder on power-law index, rotational speed, aspect ratio, and Reynolds number. [Display omitted] • Flow phenomenon of power-law fluids around a rotating elliptic cylinder is numerically investigated using ANSYS (FLUENT). • Effect of power-law index (n), Reynolds number (R e), and rotational speed (α) on streamlines and vorticity contours and engineering parameters ( C D , C L ) are studied. • Enveloping vortex around the cylinder grow in size as the rotational speed (α) and power-law index (n) increases. Similar increasing trend observed for detached vortex with R e. • The drag and lift coefficient decreases with rotational speed (α) and Reynolds number (R e). However, the dependency on power-law index is complex and no trend is found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, steady two-dimensional flow past elliptic cylinders with different aspect ratios (Ar) have been investigated for Reynolds number (Re) up to 200. Main characteristics such as the bubble length, bubble width, separation Reynolds number, separation angle, drag coefficient, coefficients of the front and rear stagnation pressure, and the maximum vorticity on the cylinder surface have been obtained. Least squares fit equations for some of these quantities have also been presented. In the special case of a circular cylinder, results computed with the largest domain show that the bubble length, bubble width, maximum vorticity on the cylinder surface, coefficient of pressure drag, coefficient of total drag, and flow separation angle are linear functions of Re, R e 0.5 , R e 0.35 , R e − 0.4 , R e − 0.5 , and R e − 0.1 , respectively. As Ar changes, the trends in the growth, with respect to Ren (with the corresponding index), for the bubble length, bubble width, and the maximum surface vorticity deviate from their linear nature. The effect of blockage on the steady flow characteristics has been studied by changing the location of the side boundaries. In certain cases, the flow properties are found to vary in a non-monotonic fashion with the change in the blockage. An explanation based on the dual role of the side boundaries in promoting and suppressing the growth of the corresponding flow property is offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lysine variants of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) result from incomplete clipping of the C-terminal lysine residues of the heavy chain. Although the structure of the lysine variants has been determined for several mAb products, a detailed study that investigates the impact of lysine charge variants on PK/PD and preclinical safety is yet to be published. Objective: An in-depth investigation of the impact of C- terminal lysine clipping of mAbs on safety and efficacy for bevacizumab charge variants. Method: Charge variant isolation using semi-preparative chromatography is followed by a comparative analysis of FcRn binding, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics in relevant animal models. Results: K1 variant exhibited improved FcRn binding affinity (4-fold), half-life (1.3-fold), and anti-tumor activity (1.3-fold) as compared to the K0 (main) product. However, the K2 variant, even though exhibited higher FcRn affinity (2-fold), displayed lower half-life (1.6-fold) and anti-tumor activity at medium and low doses. Differential proteomic analysis revealed that seven pathways (such as glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, carbon metabolism, synthesis of amino acids) were significantly enriched. Higher efficacy of the K1 variant is likely due to higher bioavailability of the drug, leading to complete downregulation of the pathways that facilitate catering of the energy requirements of the proliferating tumor cells. On the contrary, the K2 variant exhibits a shorter half-life, resulting only in partial reduction in the metabolic/energy requirements of the growing tumor cells. Conclusion: Overall, we conclude that the mAb half-life, dosage, and efficacy of a biotherapeutic product are significantly impacted by the charge variant profile of a biotherapeutic product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as an alternative tool to overcome the challenges in conventionally processed metallic components. It is gaining wide acceptability because of the superior properties of the manufactured components compared to their wrought processed counterparts. Among the available AM processed materials, austenitic stainless steel 316L is widely explored wherein an excellent strength-ductility trade-off has been reported. However, the mechanisms underlying fracture toughness of AM stainless steel 316L vis-à-vis wrought processed stainless steel 316L material are not yet explored. The present investigation is aimed at examining the mechanisms accountable for the fracture toughness of AM processed stainless steel 316L. The specimens are produced by two different AM techniques namely, selective laser melting (SLM) and wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM). A wrought processed stainless steel 316L was used as a control material for comparison. Three-point bending tests were carried out on fatigue pre-cracked single edge notched specimens and crack initiation fracture toughness was evaluated. Digital image correlation was used for strain analysis and to monitor crack propagation. The SLM manufactured sample has shown higher fracture toughness whereas WAAM has exhibited nearly the same fracture toughness when compared to the wrought processed stainless steel 316L sample. Microstructure of fractured samples consists of a significantly higher twin density and a higher propensity of dislocation slip was observed in the SLM sample than the other two. It has been argued that a very fine cellular structure, minimized process-induced defects, enhanced twin density led to promising toughness in the SLM processed stainless steel 316L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of oscillometry as a viable alternative for assessing lung function in children with pulmonary malformations. The currently established diagnostic criteria for hypoplastic lung focus on structural and radiographic patterns, but lack functional evaluation. Oscillometry, which measures resistance and reactance at different frequencies, can provide valuable information about peripheral airway problems. The article presents a case study of a 4-year-old child with right lung hypoplasia, highlighting the importance of functional assessment for appropriate management of children with pulmonary or chest wall malformations. The authors emphasize the need for wider applicability of oscillometry in these cases. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Cutworms (Agrotis spp.) are cosmopolitan and polyphagous pests distributed throughout world, which belong to the family Noctuidae, and about 26 species are found associated with agriculturally important crops in India and some other countries of world. The most prominent species belonging to genera Agrotis are Agrotis ipsilon, A. flammatra, A. plecta, A. spinifera and A. segetum. Cutworms cause substantial damage to many agricultural and horticultural crops particularly, at the seedling stage. This pest produces vitiating symptoms with a young stage (larvae) by feeding on the epidermis of leaves and eating away parts of the stem, tubers, etc. Results: This review article is mainly focused on management of cutworm, which is very challenging due to larval hiding behaviour during the day time and feed actively at night. Efficient chemical control of cutworm may be obtained by adequately applying chemicals when young caterpillars are still on the leaves and therefore vulnerable. As per biology of cutworms, these pests remain hidden in cracks and crevices during most of life cycle so chemical control is often ineffective and economic. Sometimes, inadequate application of these chemicals is resulted into the development of resistance in these pests. Moreover, the adverse effects of the chemicals have led researchers to search for new control strategies. Recently, biological control has become a practical option for eco-friendly management of numerous insect pests. Among biological control, entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have broad potential to kill the cutworms in soil itself. Conclusions: Various species of EPNs like Steinernema spp. and Heterorhabditis spp. are found a quite effective and hold considerable potential to manage cutworms. So, the use of EPNs for the management of cutworms is a good alternate to chemical method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stainless steels are considered to be corrosion resistant; however, the performance of the material is affected under long-term or extreme conditions. The development of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) has opened avenues to enhance a useful life even under extreme environmental conditions. However, the fabrication of HEAs involves multiple-stage (milling, compaction, sintering, and inert environment) manufacturing processes. The present study explores the single-stage process development of a TiNbMoMnFe high-entropy alloy (HEA) coating on 304L stainless steel substrate using a high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) thermal spray technique. Prior to HVOF coating, the feedstock powders were milled for 5, 10, and 15 h, respectively. The coated surfaces were analyzed for morphology, wettability, microstructure, corrosion resistance, presence of different phases and their distribution. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microhardness tester, 3D optical profilometry, and x-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to get different metallurgical and mechanical characteristics. The results indicated that 15-h milled powder-coated substrate exhibited higher corrosion resistance than the other coatings as well as the 304L stainless steel substrate. Chemically stable BCC phase was observed in 15-h milled powder-coated substrates. Moreover, the microhardness, surface roughness, and hydrophobicity of the coated surface were also improved with an increased milling rate. Thus, corrosion resistance of HEA coating can be optimized by a good selection of milling time of powder feedstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern-day photonic integrated circuits, near-field Coulomb interaction plays an important role in device performance. In fact, harvesting the Coulomb effect intelligently can immensely help to realize advanced photonic devices on micro and nano length scales. In this context, electrically coupled terahertz metasurfaces are investigated for weak and strong near-field coupling regimes under the influence of variable photoexcitation. Our study demonstrates active tuning of metasurface resonances at relatively low pump powers (up to 10 mW (pump fluence of 12.7 µ J cmâˆ'2) and 20 mW (pump fluence of 25.4 µ J cmâˆ'2) for strong and weak near-field coupling regimes, respectively). We attribute photoinduced modifications of substrate electronic properties along with modifications of near-field interactions to be responsible for the resonance modulations. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the Coulomb effect parameter can be dynamically tunable with variable pump power. Our study reveals that the change in Coulomb parameter is more pronounced for the weak near-field coupling regime (more than six times enhancement in Coulomb parameter) in comparison to the strong near-field coupling regime. In addition, the optical switching of the fundamental resonance is validated utilizing numerically simulated patterns of surface current and electric field. We envisage that such active modulation of Coulomb effects in near-field coupled metasurfaces can lead to the realization of dynamically tunable terahertz metaphotonic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The developing countries are using non-edible oils for the production of biofuels, additives, or alternate fuels. The research article focused on the behavior study and analysis of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) biodiesel obtained by processing the cashew nut shell liquid. The work is carried out to derive the thermal-cracked(TC) -CNSL oil from Cardonal in the temperature range l 50°C to 400° C. The chemical functional groups are studied using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) techniques. The TC-CNSL blended fuel performance is compared with diesel and neat biodiesel (B-100). The physicochemical properties of diesel, CNSL, and TC-CNSL biodiesel are estimated based on American Society for Testing and Materials(ASTM) standards. The 50 parts per million(p'Pm) Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles are added with TC-CNSL-B25, TC-CNSL-B50, TC-CNSL- 75, and TC-CNSL-BJOO and processed in a single stroke diesel engine working at constant speed 1500-rpm. The blended fuel is analyzed based on environmental emission parameters in the diesel engines. The carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO认 hydrocarbon (HC) emissions of B-100 are reduced by 40.5 %, 60.9 %, and 30.7 % respectively in comparison to diesel, at full load. The nitrogen oxide(NOx) emissions are increased by 13.26 % in B-100 in comparison to diesel, at full load. The smoke density is also observed decreasin􀄺arison to diesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve social justice, equality, and quality of life under the concerted efforts deliberated for community development, countries engage in a range of interventions focusing on participation, capacity building, and sustainability. In this study, we examine two specific characteristics of livelihood interventions, development and empowerment; their relationship; and impact on community well-being. The findings suggest that while outcomes related to development and empowerment processes have a positive but meagre impact on community well-being, there is lack of continuum between them and the relationship is conditioned by convergence and governance. Further, insights from interviews also suggest that though there are institutional voids, challenging changing context, and variations in the way mobilization and participation are employed, those that will integrate good governance and strong convergence can deliver better outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressive disseminated histoplasmosis (PDH) usually presents as fever, anemia, leukopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy and pulmonary symptoms. There are few reports on the association of idiopathic CD4 lymphocytopenia (ICL) with histoplasmosis. We describe a 65-year-old female presented with a history of fever, papulo-nodular rash and significant weight loss and diagnosed as progressive disseminated histoplasmosis. All immunocompromised conditions were ruled out. In addition, her 2 consecutive CD4 counts were below 300. The patient was diagnosed with PDH associated with ICL. The patient showed significant improvement with liposomal amphotericin B and itraconazole. Absolute CD4 counts should be done in all cases of progressive disseminated histoplasmosis even in HIV negative individuals to rule out associated ICL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article deals with a continuum mechanics-based method to model an electro-magneto-rheological (EMR) fluid deformation subjected to an electromagnetic field. The proposed method follows the fundamental laws of physics, including the principles of thermodynamics. We start with the general balance laws for mass, linear momentum, angular momentum, energy, and the second law of thermodynamics in the form of Clausius–Duhem inequality with Maxwell's equations. Then, we formulated a generalized constitutive model for EMR fluids following the representation theorem. Later, we validate the model with the results of an EMR rheometer and ER fluid valve system-based configurations. At last, the possible simulation-based velocity profiles are also discussed for parallel plate configuration. As a result, we succeed in providing more physics-based analytical findings than the existing studies in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The landscape of fungal endocarditis (FE) has constantly been evolving in the last few decades. Despite the advancement in diagnostic methods and the introduction of newer antifungals, mortality remains high in FE. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in patients with FE. We also aim to examine the aforementioned factors as a determinant of mortality in FE. A literature search was performed in PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus, and all patients ≥18 years with proven fungal endocarditis were included. A total of 220 articles (250 patients) were included in the final analysis. Candida was the commonest aetiology (49.6%), followed by Aspergillus (30%) and Scedosporium species (3.2%). The proportion of prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) and intravenous drug users was 35.2% and 16%, respectively. The overall mortality rate was 40%. On multivariate analysis, Aspergillus endocarditis (HR 3.7, 95% CI 1.4‐9.7; p =.009) and immunocompromised state (HR 2.8, 95% CI 1.24‐6.3; p =.013) were independently associated with mortality. Patients treated with surgery along antifungals had better survival (HR 0.20, 95% CI 0.09‐0.42; p <.001) compared to those treated with antifungals alone. Recurrence of FE was reported in 10.4% of patients. In conclusion, FE carries significant mortality, particularly in immunodeficient and Aspergillus endocarditis. We advocate the use of surgery combined with antifungals to improve clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of Soret–Dufour effects along with chemical reaction, viscous dissipation combining on MHD Joule heating for viscous incompressible flow is presented. It is assumed that fluid is flowing past an angled stretching sheet saturated in porous means. The slip conditions of velocity, concentration, and temperature are accounted for at the boundary. The mathematical expression of the problem contains highly nonlinear interconnected partial differential equations. To convert governing equations into ordinary differential equations, appropriate similarity transformations were utilized. These differential equations with boundary constraints are resolved by homotopy analysis method. Expression for velocity, concentration, and temperature are derived in the form of series. Effects of numerous physical parameters, for example, Schmidt number, Soret number, buoyancy ratio parameter, slip parameter, and so forth, on various flow characteristics are presented through graphs. Numerous values of velocity, concentration, and temperature gradient are tabulated against different parameters. Results show that the fluid velocity increases by enhancing the Soret number, Dufour number, or permeability parameter. The fluid's concentration rises as the Soret number increases, while it falls as the Dufour number, chemical reaction parameter, or permeability parameter increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gujarat is one of India’s most bio-diverse states and is very rich in biological diversity with regards to Asiatic lion, indigenous cow breeds (Gir), indigenous Kesar mango, microbes, insects, and bryophytes etc. Access and benefit sharing (ABS) clause through an additional CBD protocol known as the Nagoya Protocol for the Utilisation of Biological Resources and shared between users and providers for the protection of biological resources. In India, in line with this notion, the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and Rules, 2004 were enacted by the Parliament of India. For this paper, data related to Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs), and the status of applications for access and benefit sharing in states was gathered and analysed for the status of the implementation of access and benefit sharing (ABS) from biological resources in Gujarat. Moreover, the level of awareness among the prominent users (industries) of biological resources related to access and benefit sharing (ABS) was assessed through the generation of a telephonic questionnaire survey of different sets of questions. The research discusses an outlook on access and benefit sharing (ABS) of biological resources in Gujarat State. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Friction and wear response of mechanical systems with sliding components are important for their reliability, energy efficiency and life span. Owing to the high specific strength of magnesium (Mg) alloys, their demand is growing significantly for various structural applications in various industries such as automotive and aerospace. However, considering the poor wear and friction response of these alloys, reducing wear and friction is critical to achieve desired performance for various engineering applications. From the last two decades, researchers have adopted numerous approaches to improve tribological properties of Mg-based systems but a detailed review on this topic is lacking. This review highlights various approaches which have been explored and can be considered for future development of Mg alloys for tribological applications. A detailed review of the most recent tribological studies of Mg alloys and its composites for macro-scale to nano-scale under dry and lubricated conditions is also emphasized in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longer photoperiod in form of continuous light (24-h photoperiod without dark interruption) can alter the various physiological and biochemical processes of the plant. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of continuous light on various biochemical parameters associated with the growth and development of Vigna radiata L. (mung bean). The findings showed that leaf size and chlorophyll content of seedlings grown under continuous light were significantly greater than control plants subjected to 12 h light/12 h dark (12/12 h). The activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD, 30.81%), catalase (CAT, 16.86%), guaiacol peroxidase (GPOD, 12.27%), malondialdehyde, (MDA, 39.31) and proline (14.81%) were notably higher in 24/0 h light period than 12/12 h light period grown seedling at an early stage (on Day 6) while they were constant at the later stage of development. Increased activity of amylase and invertase reveals higher assimilation and consumption of photosynthetic products. This study revealed that plants were stressed at first. However, they gradually became acclimated to continuous light and efficiently used the excess light in carbon assimilation. A 24-h light period is found as an important factor for the production of greenhouse crops and production in plant factories. In this study, the effects of continuous light on antioxidants, carbohydrate metabolism was analysed and the mechanism involved in this phenomenon was understated. Our results showed that continuous light benefited the growth of Vigna radiata L. (mung bean) without causing leaf injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The field of mutiparameter sensing elements is explored via tailoring the response of optical wavefronts. • Conventional & digital holographic platforms along with metamaterials are employed to address the developments in the simultaneous multiparameteric sensors. • Such endeavors can envision the interleaving of multiple devices on a single chip for interdisciplinary pursuits. Optical sensors play an important role in advancing science and technology for improving the standard of living. These sensors work by accessing the alteration in one or more parameters of the optical beam such as phase, intensity, polarization, wavelength, wavefront, etc. through interaction with the test sample. The precise control of an optical wavefront has become important to achieve key functionalities of the optical sensors. Holography is one of the important and easy approaches to controlling and studying the wavefronts. Using this strategy, the wavefront can be examined both through the photographic recording-based conventional holography and through digital holography. Holography-based techniques are being used widely for sensing and imaging applications. Conventional holography-based sensors work by detecting either a change in the diffraction efficiency of the hologram or the wavelength of the beam. Further, digital holography-based sensors detect changes in the phase of the beam. In recent times, metamaterials are emerging as novel materials for many applications including sensing. Metamaterials are artificial subwavelength inclusions structured ingeniously as a potential substitute for materials available in nature. They stimulate an additional degree of freedom by breaking fetters laid by traditional designs to conduct multivariate analysis. This is an infant discipline that can envision the interleaving of multiple devices on a single chip and guide sensing developments of interdisciplinary pursuits. The present work encompasses a comprehensive outlook on optical sensors based on wavefront modulation using holographic and metamaterial-based approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconium alloys are the key materials for nuclear reactor's core components due to low neutron cross-section and good mechanical and corrosion properties. During operation in nuclear reactor, some core components (exposed to the corrosive environment of coolant water having LiOH) may undergo corrosion and fretting-corrosion. This work presents a novel experimental approach for investigating the Zr-2.5 Nb alloy's corrosion and in-situ fretting-corrosion response. The corrosion analysis was performed using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization, to study the effect of LiOH concentration in water and exposure duration. It is observed that the corrosion rate increases with increasing the concentration of LiOH in water and decreases with increasing the exposure duration. The fretting-corrosion tests were performed between SS-410 and Zr-2.5 Nb in aqueous LiOH solution. The results reveal that the contact resistance and coefficient of friction (COF) decrease with increasing concentration of LiOH in the solution. The present work highlights the scientific understanding of corrosion and fretting-corrosion phenomena in zirconium alloy and elucidates key mechanisms and factors governing the degradation behavior which can help in preventing the failure of the components. [Display omitted] • Electrochemical corrosion and fretting-corrosion experiments were conducted on Zr-2.5 Nb alloy in an aqueous LiOH solution. • The alkalinity of the solution was varied by varying the LiOH concentration (7–11.4 pH) • EIS and potentiodynamic polarization studies were conducted to measure the corrosion. • Contact resistance and COF were measured during fretting-corrosion. • The increasing LiOH concentration decreases the corrosion resistance and contact resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this investigation is to optimize the heat-treatment for tailoring a suitable microstructure, especially that of the matrix phase in a W-Ni-Co alloy. Different microstructural features that have been focused on are grain size, fine W particles, intermetallics and short-range ordering. 92W-5.3Ni-2.7Co alloy prepared through powder metallurgy route was imparted a cyclic heat-treatment to obtain a microstructure comprising finely distributed tungsten particles in an FCC matrix that envelopes the large tungsten grains. While the fine W particle influences the mechanical behaviour of W-Ni-Co alloys, the grain size of the matrix and short-range ordering are also expected to play a significant role. The effect of different heat-treatments on the microstructure of the matrix was studied using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and electron back scatter diffraction (EBSD). It is observed that increasing the quenching rate diminishes short-range ordering in the matrix. The formation of intermetallic phase at intermediate temperature range (between 800 °Cand 900 °C) and its subsequent dissolution at higher temperature influences the final microstructure of the alloy. In the present study, the effect of the intermetallic phase on the formation of randomly orientated fine equiaxed grains in the matrix has been elucidated. [Display omitted] • The novelty of the study is in the development of microstructure of the binder/matrix phase, which has not been addressed earlier in details, especially in relation to grain size, fine structure and so on. • Study of the matrix phase of tungsten heavy alloy is extremely important as it controls the ductility and toughness of the alloy, besides partly contributing towards strengthening of the alloy. • For the first time, it has been shown that the features of phase transformation are similar to those of nickel base intermetallics which deal with instability of FCC structure and adds to the current understanding. • The observations and their analyses will have significance especially towards the improvement in mechanical properties for more stringent applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]