Search

In this work, substantial increase in electromagnetic (EM) shielding of polystyrene–polyaniline (PS-PANI) composite by way of addition of carbon nanofibers has been achieved. PANI was synthesized through chemical root using chemical oxidative polymerization method. Copolymer of PS with conducting polymer PANI and carbon nanofiber (CF) were prepared using solution mixing method. The synthesized PS-PANI-CF composites were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and D-shore hardness tester while thermal stability was determined by thermogravimetric analysis. Shielding effectiveness of the composites was investigated in the frequency range of 8.2–12.4 GHz (X-band region) using a vector network analyzer. Synthesized PS-PANI-CF composite exhibits an absorption dominated EM shielding value of 39 dB at 8.4 GHz frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wise decisions are often guided by an accurate understanding of the expected values of different possible choices. In social contexts, wisdom comes from understanding how others are likely to respond to one's actions, enabling people to make choices that maximize both their own and others' outcomes. Our research suggests that miscalibrated social cognition may create a systematic barrier to wiser decisions in social life. From expressing appreciation to offering support to performing acts of kindness, this program of research indicates that decisions to engage with others are driven by how people expect a recipient to respond, but that people consistently underestimate how positively others will respond to their other-oriented actions. Because connecting with others consistently increases people's own wellbeing, miscalibrated social cognition may lead to undersociality: being overly reluctant to reach out and connect with others. Miscalibrated expectations about social engagement can create markets for products that help people overcome these barriers in order to consume their time, money, and effort more wisely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ratner et al. (2023) and Silver and Small (2023) raise deeply interesting questions about the broad consequences of increasing sociality, about people's ability to anticipate the outcomes of sociality, and about broader issues people may be considering when thinking of connecting with another person. We focus this response on the potential role of intentions and anticipated impressions in affecting undersociality, as well as the possibility of interactions that could moderate the gap between people's expectations of social engagement and their actual experiences. Many unanswered and important questions remain in need of critical empirical attention. We encourage future research that provides a better understanding of undersociality by focusing on intentions, impressions, and interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Performing random acts of kindness increases happiness in both givers and receivers, but we find that givers systematically undervalue their positive impact on recipients. In both field and laboratory settings (Experiments 1a through 2b), those performing an act of kindness reported how positive they expected recipients would feel and recipients reported how they actually felt. From giving away a cup of hot chocolate in a park to giving away a gift in the lab, those performing a random act of kindness consistently underestimated how positive their recipients would feel, thinking their act was of less value than recipients perceived it to be. Givers' miscalibrated expectations are driven partly by an egocentric bias in evaluations of the act itself (Experiment 3). Whereas recipients' positive reactions are enhanced by the warmth conveyed in a kind act, givers' expectations are relatively insensitive to the warmth conveyed in their action. Underestimating the positive impact of a random act of kindness also leads givers to underestimate the behavioral consequences their prosociality will produce in recipients through indirect reciprocity (Experiment 4). We suggest that givers' miscalibrated expectations matter because they can create a barrier to engaging in prosocial actions more often in everyday life (Experiments 5a and 5b), which may result in people missing out on opportunities to enhance both their own and others' well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study highlights the long-term variations in temperature and precipitation using time series datasets of CRU and ERA5-Land across the Himalayan region. The Mann-Kendall and Sen’s slope-based trend analysis exhibited an apparent warming trend in the region, with higher increase in Tmin (1.5°C) and comparatively lower increase in Tmax (0.8°C) during 1901–2018. The joint CCl/WCRP/JCOMM based 19 extreme indices elucidated an increasing frequency of warm days (16%) in Central Himalayan urban agglomerations (HUAs) with a declining number of cold days (-6%) and cold nights (-4%) during 2000–2019. The moderate decline in the wet days (8%) and consecutive wet days (-5 days/20 years) observed in all HUAs compared to an increasing frequency of the consecutive dry days (3 days/20 years). Study reported higher warming in Kathmandu UA, while increased precipitation in Srinagar UA, and contributes to framing climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies in the mountainous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Respiratory distress (RD) in neonates is one of the important clinical entities for admission in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The present study was conducted to assess prevalence of neonatal respiratory distress and its possible etiologies in NICU. Material & Methods: In the present descriptive study all live newborns delivered were observed for respiratory distress over a period of 1 year. After the initial assessment and cardio respiratory management, a history was obtained. Maternal and obstetrical histories were taken and findings suggestive of respiratory distress were also noted. Data was recorded on a predesigned performa. Results were analyzed using SPSS 16. Results: In the present study total number of live births were 910. Out of all these cases 85 newborns developed respiratory distress. The overall prevalence of respiratory distress was 9.34%. Transient tachypnea of newborn was found to be the commonest cause of respiratory distress (37.64%) followed by Respiratory distress syndrome (21.17%). Birth asphyxia was absent in the newborn. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the overall prevalence of respiratory distress was 9.34%. Transient tachypnea of newborn was found to be the commonest cause of respiratory distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the COVID-19 risk considering positive cases (as a hazard) and the demographic structure (as a socio-economic vulnerability) at districts scale across India using fuzzy analytical hierarchical process and geospatial modelling. Despite the fact that the high and very high COVID-19 hazard was observed in a limited area (14.2%, 233 districts), the proportion of high to very high COVID-19 risk was evident in larger regions (42.5%, 575 districts). A moderate to very high socio-economic vulnerability was recorded in major parts of the country (60.0%, 557 districts), while the districts with megacities had been severely affected due to the more complex urban and social systems. The study highlights the zones under high COVID-19 hazard and its possible linkages with vulnerability and risk at district scales in India that may effectively support emergency preparedness and response mechanisms during the different waves of the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consistent production of bioactives from microbial sources remains a big challenge for fermentation based bio-processes. Setomimycin, a rare 9,9'-bianthrylanthracene antibiotic reported to be active against Gram positive bacteria i.e. Staphyloccocus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, and Mycobacterium smegmatis, including mycobacteria is one of the least exploited antibiotic. Present work aims to enhance and maximize setomimycin production using One Factor at a Time (OFAT) approach, followed by Taguchi L9 orthogonal array (OA) design in 30L fermenter. Four most influential parameters, namely carbon source, nitrogen source, air and agitation were selected for optimization studies. The optimized production medium supplemented with 150 g/L glycerol and 7.5 g/L soyabean meal with an agitation rate of 100 RPM and air flow rate of 20 LPM (Liters Per Minute) resulted in 675 mg/L setomimycin production within 96–108 h of fermentation as compared to the initial production i.e. 40 mg/L. Thus, an overall enhancement of 16.8 folds was achieved in setomimycin production after optimization in 30L fermenter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on urban damage and surface deformation in the Kathmandu city region that occurred due to the massive earthquake in Nepal in 2015. The deformation was estimated from pre-and post-earthquake C-band Sentinel-1A synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite images employing the Interferometric SAR (InSAR) technique. The study highlighted a latitudinal pattern in deformation from the north to south directions, most likely directed by the structural alignments (ridges and valleys) in the Himalayan region. The city-scale study exhibited an increase in the intensity of displacement from the north (<-5cm) to the south (>-20 cm) direction in Kathmandu city. Major parts of the city observed moderate subsidence (-10 cm to −15 cm), while the south-eastern and central parts observed severe subsidence (>15 cm) due to structural damage and collapse of buildings. The incidences of land subsidence and damage to buildings were recorded in the entire Kathmandu Municipal Corporation (KMC) area - a large part (86%; 43.84 km2) of which was built-up land and inhabited population (49% of 1,744,240 people) in 2015 - affecting built structures, transport networks, and world heritage monuments. The earthquake hazard-risk analysis demonstrated that the built-up land in the south-eastern and north-western parts were the severely affected areas due to high population and high built-up density. The study elucidates the potential application of InSAR technology using freely available concurrent Sentinel-1A SAR data in the estimation of earthquake induced damage study at urban scale and hazard-risk assessment that aid in the formulation of an effective disaster risk reduction policy framework for the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidermoid cysts are commonly encountered intracranial neoplastic masses in clinical Radiology practice. They are mostly benign but may undergo malignant transformation or may present as de novo malignant epidermoid tumor, a rare but ominous phenomenon associated with poor prognosis. Malignant epidermoids may masquerade as glial tumours, ependymal neoplasms, or choroid plexus masses, and are prone to be misdiagnosed. We describe a case of malignant epidermoid cyst or tumor (de novo) in a young adult who presented with the complaints of intermittent headaches which had increased in frequency and severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tonsillectomy is one of the commonest ENT procedures done in paediatric population, the technique of which has evolved over years to decrease the morbidity associated with the surgery. This prospective randomized comparative study is done to evaluate the efficacy of two different techniques of this surgery, conventional cold dissection and laser tonsillectomy based on operative time, blood loss, post-operative pain and occurrence of secondary complications. The study was done in 68 patients of paediatric age group, 34 in each group underwent cold dissection and laser tonsillectomy. Operative time and bleeding were significantly low for laser group. Pain score was comparable in early post-operatives days, but was high towards the end of first week. Our study reported only one incidence of complication in the form of a secondary bleeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Histone deacetylases (HDACs) that catalyze removal of acetyl groups from histone proteins, are strongly associated with several diseases including diabetes, yet the precise regulatory events that control the levels and activity of the HDACs are not yet well elucidated. Methods: Levels of H19 and HDACs were evaluated in skeletal muscles of normal and diabetic db/db mice by Western Blot analysis. C2C12 cells were differentiated and transfected with either the scramble or H19 siRNA and the levels of HDACs and Prkab2, Pfkfb3, Srebf1, Socs2, Irs1 and Ppp2r5b were assessed by Western Blot analysis and qRT-PCR, respectively. Levels of H9, HDAC6 and IRS1 were evaluated in skeletal muscles of scramble/ H19 siRNA injected mice and chow/HFD-fed mice. Results: Our data show that the lncRNA H19 and HDAC6 exhibit inverse patterns of expression in the skeletal muscle of diabetic db/db mice and in C2C12 cells, H19 inhibition led to significant increase in HDAC activity and in the levels of HDAC6, both at the transcript and protein levels. This was associated with downregulation of IRS1 levels that were prevented in the presence of the HDAC inhibitor, SAHA, and HDAC6 siRNA suggesting the lncRNA H19-HDAC6 axis possibly regulates cellular IRS1 levels. Such patterns of H19, HDAC6 and IRS1 expression were also validated and confirmed in high fat diet-fed mice where as compared to normal chow-fed mice, H19 levels were significantly inhibited in the skeletal muscle of these mice and this was accompanied with elevated HDAC6 levels and decreased IRS1 levels. In-vivo inhibition of H19 led to significant increase in HDAC6 levels and this was associated with a decrease in IRS1 levels in the skeletal muscle. Conclusions: Our results suggest a critical role for the lncRNA H19-HDAC6 axis in regulating IRS1 levels in the skeletal muscle during diabetes and therefore restoring normal H19 levels might hold a therapeutic potential for the management of aberrant skeletal muscle physiology during insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In search of selective carbonic anhydrase (CA) IX inhibitors endowed with apoptotic inducing properties, we designed and synthesised two subsets of 4- and 3-(5-aryl-(4-phenylsulphonyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)benzene-sulphonamides. All compounds were assayed for human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) isoforms I, II, IV, and IX inhibition. Isoforms hCA I and hCA IV were weakly inhibited by most of the synthesised compounds. Many four-substituted benzenesulphonamides displayed low nanomolar inhibition against isoform hCA II, unlike the three-substituted analogues. All target compounds exhibited good inhibition profile with KI values ranging from 16.4 to 66.0 nM against tumour-associated isoform hCA IX. Some selective and potent inhibitors of hCA IX were assayed for in vitro apoptotic induction in goat testicular cells. Compounds 10d and 10h showed interesting apoptotic induction potential. The present study may provide insights into a strategy for the design of novel anticancer agents based on hCA inhibitors endowed with apoptotic interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power electronic systems have a great impact on modern society. Their applications target a more sustainable future by minimizing the negative impacts of industrialization on the environment, such as global warming effects and greenhouse gas emission. Power devices based on wide band gap (WBG) material have the potential to deliver a paradigm shift in regard to energy efficiency and working with respect to the devices based on mature silicon (Si). Gallium nitride (GaN) and silicon carbide (SiC) have been treated as one of the most promising WBG materials that allow the performance limits of matured Si switching devices to be significantly exceeded. WBG-based power devices enable fast switching with lower power losses at higher switching frequency and hence, allow the development of high power density and high efficiency power converters. This paper reviews popular SiC and GaN power devices, discusses the associated merits and challenges, and finally their applications in power electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the factors associated with food security after three years of implementation of the National Food Security Act, 2013. Fifteen hundred and fourteen households in three states of India—563 from Bihar, 557 from Uttar Pradesh, and 394 from Haryana—were surveyed. Data on beneficiary status, calorie consumption, economic status, social status, health status, and women empowerment were analyzed using binary logistic regression. Findings suggest that beneficiary had more employment in families, normal and deficit calorie intake, used cow dung cake as fuel, more children enrolment in primary and secondary schools, and adoption of family planning measures. These improvements have occurred after three years of implementation of the Act, and through supply of food grains to poor families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maleimides serve as an important synthetic precursor for various organic transformation reactions. However, maleimides have been rarely employed as coupling partners for the direct synthesis of 3‐aryl substituted maleimides via oxidative Heck‐type reaction, due to the lack of β‐hydrogen at the syn‐periplanar position. Therefore, herein, we report an efficient and highly selective synthesis of 3‐arylacetamide incorporated maleimides through the cross‐dehydrogenative coupling process using the simple and native primary acetamide as a weakly directing group with Pd(II)‐catalysis conditions. This reaction furnishes 3‐arylated maleimide derivatives in good yields with high functional group tolerance. Furthermore, 3‐arylated maleimides were transformed into synthetically important derivatives. Based on preliminary control experiments, a probable reaction mechanism has been proposed for the distal C−H bond functionalization reaction. Interesting photophysical properties of the synthesized products were also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Since inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, early detection and isolation of positive cases is one of the key strategies to restrict disease transmission. Real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRTPCR) has been the mainstay of diagnosis. Most of the qRTPCR kits were designed against the target genes of original strain of SARS-CoV-2. However, with the emergence of variant strains of SARS-CoV-2, sensitivity of the qRTPCR assays has reportedly reduced. In view of this, it is critical to continuously monitor the performance of the qRTPCR kits in the backdrop of variant strains of SARS-CoV-2. Real world monitoring of assay performance is challenging. Therefore, we developed a two-step in-silico screening process for evaluating the performance of various qRTPCR kits used in India. Results: We analysed 73 qRT-PCR kits marketed in India, against the two SARS-CoV-2 VoCs. Sequences of both Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529) VoCs submitted to GISAID within a specific timeframe were downloaded, clustered to identify unique sequences and aligned with primer and probe sequences. Results were analysed following a two-step screening process. Out of 73 kits analysed, seven were unsatisfactory for detection of both Delta and Omicron VoCs, 10 were unsatisfactory for Delta VoC whereas 2 were unsatisfactory for only Omicron VoC. Conclusion: Overall, we have developed a useful screening process for evaluating the performance of qRTPCR assays against Delta and Omicron VoCs of SARS-CoV-2 which can be used for detecting SARS-CoV-2 VoCs that may emerge in future and can also be redeployed for other evolving pathogens of public health importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell competition, the elimination of cells surrounded by more fit neighbors, is proposed to suppress tumorigenesis. Mahjong (Mahj), a ubiquitin E3 ligase substrate receptor, has been thought to mediate competition of cells mutated for lethal giant larvae (lgl), a neoplastic tumor suppressor that defines apical-basal polarity of epithelial cells. Here, we show that Drosophila cells mutated for mahjong, but not for lgl [l(2)gl], are competed because they express the bZip-domain transcription factor Xrp1, already known to eliminate cells heterozygous for ribosomal protein gene mutations (Rp/+ cells). Xrp1 expression in mahj mutant cells results in activation of JNK signaling, autophagosome accumulation, eIF2a phosphorylation and lower translation, just as in Rp/+ cells. Cells mutated for damage DNA binding-protein 1 (ddb1; pic) or cullin 4 (cul4), which encode E3 ligase partners of Mahj, also display Xrp1-dependent phenotypes, as does knockdown of proteasome subunits. Our data suggest a new model of mahj-mediated cell competition that is independent of apical-basal polarity and couples Xrp1 to protein turnover. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aseel, a popular breed of native chicken, characterized by its pugnacity, fighting strength and royal gait, is being used to create crosses for domestic chicken production. However, information on its growth models is scanty. An experiment was conducted to evaluate different non-linear models and to find out best fitting model in Aseel, being maintained at Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly. Data on body weights from 12-weeks of age to 20-weeks of age at biweekly intervals were recorded on a random bred single-hatched flock. Owing to the non-linear characteristic of growth, three non-linear models namely, Gompertz, Bertalanffy and Logistic models were evaluated. Goodness of fit for all the models were checked using coefficient of determination (R²), adjusted coefficient of determination (Adj-R²), mean square error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE) and Akaike information criterion (AIC). The Bertalanffy model most accurately characterized the growth trend in males, females and pooled sex data. The study revealed that this model may be used to ascertain the average body weights in Aseel chicken under random mating. The investigation has generated baseline data on growth modelling of random bred groups and may be used in similar investigations on other native chicken breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to determine the above-ground biomass (AGB) of tropical deciduous forests in Central India using field-based techniques and spaceborne quad-pol ALOS PALSAR-2 L-band and dual-pol Sentinel 1A C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR). Field sampling based on 73 forested grids exhibited a diverse forest composition in the Satpura Tiger Reserve (STR) with a total of 54 tree species of which 31.48% species were IUCN Red-Listed. The forests were highly diverse (H′=3.22) with a low concentration of dominance (CD = 0.06) and a quite high species evenness (E = 0.81). The sensitivity and correlation between field-based AGB and SAR backscatter in STR were highest in cross-polarization due to its higher sensitivity to the vegetation structure in both L- and C-band SAR, where L-VH based AGB estimates were found more accurate (RMSE:5.17%). The study provided vital information for setting up strategies for biodiversity conservation, enhancing forest productivity, and restoring wildlife habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the present manuscript is to introduce a new sequence of linear positive operators, i.e., Szász-Schurer-Beta type operators to approximate a class of Lebesgue integrable functions. Moreover, we calculate basic estimates and central moments for these sequences of operators. Further, rapidity of convergence and order of approximation are investigated in terms of Korovkin theorem and modulus of smoothess. In subsequent section, local and global approximation properties are studied in various functional spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we investigated the effects of different functional groups in graphene on the mechanical performance of epoxy nanocomposites fabricated using the in-situ polymerization method. This study considered pristine graphene and three different varieties of functionalized graphene (–NH2, –COOH, and –OH) with varying weight percent (i.e., 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 wt%). The functional groups grafted of graphene have been confirmed through Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectra. Microstructural features and fracture surfaces were also examined by field-emission scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. In comparison to pure epoxy, –OH functionalized graphene/epoxy nanocomposites showed a maximum improvement of 37.24% in tensile strength and 38.05% in flexural strength. The improved mechanical properties of epoxy nanocomposites were attributed to homogeneous dispersion, graphene bridging, and better interfacial contact between epoxy and graphene. The effect of pristine and functionalized graphene on the mechanical properties of epoxy nanocomposites was studied. Nanocomposites were fabricated for three different wt% (0.25, 0.5, and 1.0) of graphene nanofillers. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) with EDX was used to examine the microstructural features of fractured surfaces. Graphene enhanced the mechanical properties of epoxy nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To the best of author's knowledge, only three approaches are proposed in the literature to solve fully fuzzy linear fractional transportation problems. (Linear fractional transportation problems in which each known parameter is represented by a fuzzy number.) In this paper, it is pointed out that it is inappropriate to use any of these existing approaches as some mathematical incorrect assumptions are considered in these existing approaches. Also, a new approach (named as Mehar approach) is proposed to solve fully fuzzy linear fractional transportation problems. Furthermore, an exact fuzzy optimal solution of an existing fully fuzzy linear fractional transportation problem is obtained by the proposed Mehar approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report ruthenium(II)-catalyzed weakly coordinating primary amide-assisted ortho-di-alkynylation of (hetero)arylamides via double C–H bond activation in the presence of bromo-alkynes as coupling partners. The attractive features of the developed strategy lie in the usage of an inexpensive ruthenium(II)-salt, external auxiliary-free directing group and simple reaction conditions, along with a broad substrate scope, high reaction yields and scale-up synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we execute the generalized exponential rational function (GERF) method to construct numerous and a large number of exact analytical solitary wave solutions of the nonlinear extended Zakharov–Kuznetsov (EZK) dynamical equation in (3+1)-dimensions. The implemented method is one of the best, most reliable, and efficient techniques in the present time for determining numerous closed-form wave analytic solutions to NPDEs. We have accomplished a variety of solitary wave solutions related to some arbitrary parameters under various family cases. These solutions take the following forms based on the free parameters chosen: exponential functions form, trigonometric functions form, and hyperbolic functions form. The obtained solutions are dissimilar and entirely new from the previous findings available in the literature. The dynamics of obtained solutions, namely, soltion, singular soliton wave, a periodic wave, bell-shape, anti-bell-shape wave, breather wave, and multisoliton wave solutions by the special-choice of parameters, are shown graphically in 3D, 2D, and corresponding density profiles. The results demonstrate that the employed computational strategy is efficient, direct, concise, and can be executed in various complex phenomena with symbolic computations. Furthermore, it is revealed that the generalized exponential rational function technique can be effectively utilized for several other NPDEs in engineering, sciences, and mathematical physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In a power system, distributed energy resources, including renewables, are advantageous for reducing power transmission losses and environmental pollution. However, increasing penetration of distributed renewable energy sources is challenging as they may pose security issues to the grid and centralized control of quantum number of such sources is quite impossible. Microgrid based distribution system is facilitating integration of distributed renewable energy sources as they can supply the local loads and reduce burden on the grid. Moreover, distributed control mechanism of different microgrids enhances the functioning efficiency of the grid. However, intermittent and uncertain nature of renewables leads into demand‐supply imbalance in a microgrid. Networked microgrids is new concept where the energy sharing between the microgrids may encourage renewable integration and reduce demand‐supply imbalance. In order to manage such energy sharing among the different components in a microgrid or different microgrids in a networked structure, an appropriate energy management approach is necessitated. Transactive energy is an emerging technology for energy management in the distribution system, which uses market mechanisms for energy management. This paper discusses various types of market structures and market clearing approaches in transactive energy framework for energy management. Moreover, techno‐economic perspectives of utility in transactive energy trading, such as network constraints and network usage charges, are elaborated. Finally, this review details the challenges and future scope in the transactive energy management of microgrids and networked microgrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Study was conducted to compare the evaluation of efficacy and safety of Nebivolol plus Amlodipine combination with Atenolol plus Amlodipine combination in hypertensive patients. Materials and Methods: A Prospective Observational study was conducted at tertiary care teaching hospital which included a total 334 patients with essential hypertension. The demographic and baseline data, Blood pressure and Heart rate of the patients were recorded. After baseline investigation patients were randomly divide into 2 groups. All patients were subsequently monitored and reassessed at 4th-week, 8th week and 12th weeks of interval during each follow-up. Results: Nebivolol plus Amlodipine group include a total 169 patients in which 129 patients were males and 40 patients were females with mean age 46.89 ±12.48 years, Atenolol plus Amlodipine group include a total 165 patients in which 111patients were males and 54 patients were females with mean age 48.19±12.14 years. Patients were receiving Nebivolol plus Amlodipine and Atenolol plus Amlodipine showed a significant fall in systolic blood pressure (SBP), Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and Heart rate at the end of 4th, 8th and 12th weeks of interval as compared to their baseline data. Conclusion: A Study revels that Reduction of blood pressure and Heart rate were similar in both treatment groups (Nebivolol plus Amlodipine and Atenolol plus Amlodipine).(P- value >0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Using hand files in primary teeth is time-consuming, can lead to the formation of unwanted curvatures, and can cause iatrogenic errors. To overcome these difficulties, rotary instrumentation using nickel-titanium files was done. Aims: The present study was conducted to clinically evaluate and assess the difference in manual versus rotary instrumentation in root canals of primary teeth concerning instrumentation duration, obturation duration, quality of fills, and complications encountered. Also, the success of pulpectomy using hand files versus rotary files was assessed. Materials and Methods: 40 primary mandibular molars were randomly allocated to two groups namely control group subjects (n=20) that were treated using manual instrumentation and intervention group (n=20) using rotary instrumentation. The success was established in absence of excessive tooth mobility, sinus tract presence, gingival abscess/swelling, tenderness on percussion, and/or pain history. The collected data were subjected to statistical evaluation for results formulation. Results: The mean time for instrumentation was 25.69±3.82 minutes for the manual instrumentation group, whereas, for the rotary group it was significantly lesser (19.35±4.92) with p<0.0001. Mean obturation time for the manual group was 5.21±0.89 minutes and was lesser for the rotary group with 4.71±0.97 minutes (p=0.09). At 3 and 6 months, 97.36% (n=37) cases were considered successful in the manual instrumentation group, whereas 92.10% (n=35) cases in the rotary group were successful. At 18 months, 91.66% (n=33) pulpectomies were considered clinically successful in the manual group and 86.11% (n=31) cases in the rotary group were successful clinically. Conclusion: The present study concludes that less instrumentation time is needed with rotary instruments than manual instruments. Obturation quality and clinical success were similar in both manual and rotary instrumentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Protection by preventive Ebola vaccines has been demonstrated in clinical trials, but a complete picture of real-world effectiveness is lacking. Our previous study modeling the impact of preventively vaccinating healthcare workers (HCW) alone or with a proportion of the general population (GP) estimated significant reductions in incidence and mortality. The model assumed 100% vaccine efficacy, which is unlikely in the real world. We enhanced this model to account for lower vaccine efficacy and to factor in reduced infectiousness and lower case fatality rate in vaccinated individuals with breakthrough infections.Methods: The previous model was enhanced to still permit a risk, although lower, for vaccinated individuals to become infected. The enhanced model, calibrated with data from epidemics in Sierra Leone (SL) and North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, helped evaluate the impact of preventive Ebola vaccination in different scenarios based on different vaccine efficacy rates (90% and 30% reductions in infection risk in the base and conservative scenarios, respectively; additionally, both scenarios with 50% reductions in infectiousness and mortality) and vaccination coverage among HCWs (30%, 90%) and GP (0%, 5%, and 10%).Results: The base scenario estimated that, depending upon the proportions of vaccinated HCWs and GP, 33-85% of cases and 34-87% of deaths during the 2014 SL epidemic and 42-89% of cases and 41-89% of deaths during the 2018 North Kivu epidemic would be averted versus no vaccination. Corresponding estimates for the conservative scenario were: 23-74% of cases and 23-77% of deaths averted during the SL epidemic and 31-80% of both cases and deaths averted during the North Kivu epidemic.Conclusions: Preventive vaccination targeting HCW alone or with GP may significantly reduce the size and mortality of an EVD outbreak, even with modest efficacy and coverage. Vaccines may also confer additional benefits through reduced infectiousness and mortality in breakthrough cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isolated lesions of the sphenoid sinus are uncommon. Cavernous sinus thrombosis is generally sought due to a systemic disease rather than a local pathology. It may be due to hidden primary pathology like isolated acute sphenoid fungal rhinosinusitis. In present study, we have discussed the early management of such hidden lesions with complication. A retrospective review of 5 cases of isolated acute sphenoidal fungal rhinosinusitis leading to cavernous sinus thrombosis was carried out. All cases were managed as emergency cases. Diagnostic nasal endoscopy was normal in all cases, with sinus disease evident in radiology in only 60% cases. Diagnostic endoscopic sinus surgery was performed in 40% cases. All patients underwent urgent surgical debridement along with IV antifungals. Complete recovery was seen in ocular movements in 40% and partially in 40%, whereas only 25% had complete improvement in vision. While four cases showed favourable outcome, one patient could not be saved despite all efforts. Exploring the sinus in cavernous sinus syndrome or orbital apex syndrome despite non-conclusive imaging, is warranted as early intervention may significantly impact the chances of survival. "Time is vision" in cases with acute fungal sinusitis and is equal to the aphorism of cardiologists i.e. "time is muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) with or without local anaesthetics have been used for the past several years for the treatment of back pain, especially for radicular symptoms. The aim of this prospective study was to compare the efficacy of midline with parasagittal approach for interlaminar ESI in the management of symptomatic lumbar intervertebral disc herniation. Methods: Sixty patients (aged 20–60 years) with pain pattern consistent with lumbar radiculopathy caused by lumbar intervertebral disc herniation and who did not respond to conservative treatment were included in the study. They were randomly divided in two groups of 30 each: group I (MILESI, n = 30) consisting of midline interlaminar ESI, and group II (PSILESI, n = 30) consisting of parasagittal interlaminar ESI. They were administered a combination of 80 mg of methylprednisolone acetate (40 mg/ml) and 6 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine (total volume of 8 ml). Pain, patient satisfaction, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were assessed at different time intervals before and after the procedure for up to six months. Results: The improvement in pain score after ESI was statistically significant in both the groups at all intervals of time, with no significant difference between the two groups. The mean pain score was <3 from two weeks onwards after the injection. The pain score decreased by more than five points and it was around two points at the end of the six-month study period. Around 50% of patients in both groups had excellent satisfaction. Conclusion: Both techniques were effective in providing good analgesia. Pain relief and improvement in disability were clinically better with the parasagittal interlaminar approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW)‐based circularly polarized (CP) self‐diplexing antenna is proposed and discussed. The proposed antenna makes use of an elliptical slot in the metallic ground plane which is excited with the help of two separate microstrip feed lines, placed face‐to‐face with each other. This arrangement produces two different frequencies, centered around 21.70 and 27.10 GHz when separately excited by port‐1 and port‐2, respectively. The CP operation in both frequency bands can be brought by rotating the elliptical slot, which gives 3 dB axial‐ratio bandwidth (ARBW) of 3.01% and 6.62% in lower and upper‐frequency bands, respectively. A unidirectional radiation pattern and a peak gain of 7.70 and 9.84 dBic are obtained in lower and upper‐frequency bands, respectively. The radiation efficiency of more than 80% in both the operating frequency bands has been achieved. The behavior of the cavity modes is explained using an equivalent circuit model. The proposed antenna has been fabricated and the measured results are experimentally verified with the simulated ones. The attractive features such as low profile and low weight make the proposed SIW antenna suitable for satellite and millimeter‐wave 5G applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing future energy demands can be met with solar-based devices such as solar air heaters (SAHs) only if the efficiency of these devices is enhanced with suitable design changes. Flow channel design of a SAH is an essential aspect for enhancing its thermohydraulic performance for a wide range of Reynolds numbers. In this article, a systematic approach has been adopted to investigate various nonrectangular channel designs numerically, and results are compared with the conventional rectangular design. The energy input to all designs is kept constant. The channel design that gives the best performance was further investigated by incorporating a sinusoidal wavy absorber having variable wavy roughness parameters. The flow and heat transfer characteristics have been evaluated in terms of friction factor (f) and Nusselt number per unit friction factor (Nu/f), temperature factor (To-Ti)/I, thermal effectiveness (ɛ), and Nusselt number (Nu). The results show that the SAH duct having a semi-ellipse cross section offers the best thermohydraulic performance and has maximum augmentation in the temperature factor of about 10% compared to conventional SAH. Moreover, semi-ellipse SAH with sinusoidal wavy absorber has a maximum value of f/fs and Nu/Nus at A/Dh = 0.12 and λ/Dh = 0.8 for the range of Reynolds numbers used, respectively. Here, A is the amplitude and λ is the wavelength of the absorber plate. New empirical relationships for Nu and f are established as a function of flow and geometric parameters that agree well with numerical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and Objective: The aims and objective of this study to share the 15 years of working experience regarding importance of cartridges and resins used in a Purification Column during 18F-FDG synthesis. Materials and Methods: 18F-flourodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) is common radiotracer used in positron emission tomography (PET). 18F-FDG is synthesized in a PET radiochemistry synthesis module and purification column is an integral part of 18F-FDG synthesis. The purification column has four integral parts, namely of ion exchange retardation resin, cation exchange resin, C18 bonded silica, Neutral Alumina. Conclusion: The purification column plays a very important role during the synthesis of 18F-FDG. If all parts of the purification column are intact, then maximum transfer of produced 18F-FDG from reaction vessels to the final product vial takes place. The total yield of 18F-FDG is also dependent upon the purification column. If all components of purification column placed tightly and properly charged then there is a high possibility of maximum yield of final product without impurities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing future energy demands can be met with solar-based devices such as solar air heaters (SAHs) only if the efficiency of these devices is enhanced with suitable design changes. Flow channel design of a SAH is an essential aspect for enhancing its thermohydraulic performance for a wide range of Reynolds numbers. In this article, a systematic approach has been adopted to investigate various nonrectangular channel designs numerically, and results are compared with the conventional rectangular design. The energy input to all designs is kept constant. The channel design that gives the best performance was further investigated by incorporating a sinusoidal wavy absorber having variable wavy roughness parameters. The flow and heat transfer characteristics have been evaluated in terms of friction factor (f) and Nusselt number per unit friction factor (Nu/f), temperature factor (To-Ti)/I, thermal effectiveness (ɛ), and Nusselt number (Nu). The results show that the SAH duct having a semi-ellipse cross section offers the best thermohydraulic performance and has maximum augmentation in the temperature factor of about 10% compared to conventional SAH. Moreover, semi-ellipse SAH with sinusoidal wavy absorber has a maximum value of f/fs and Nu/Nus at A/Dh = 0.12 and λ/Dh = 0.8 for the range of Reynolds numbers used, respectively. Here, A is the amplitude and λ is the wavelength of the absorber plate. New empirical relationships for Nu and f are established as a function of flow and geometric parameters that agree well with numerical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stakeholders at the global level are convinced that plagiarism is a serious academic crime and dishonesty. Research institutions are playing a vital role in conducting research-related activities in the form of written works and they have to determine that they are dealing with it. The study evaluated the level of awareness and attitude toward plagiarism among Post Graduate students at the Central University of Haryana. The survey method was followed by the postgraduate students and a questionnaire instrument has been used for data collection. The Findings of the study depicted that 80% of students had a high level of awareness about plagiarism and 91% of students had a Negative attitude towards plagiarism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental study has been done to evaluate the thermo-hydraulic performance of solar air heater having roughness element over the absorber plate in the form of a winglet type vortex generator. LCT technique is used to measure the Nusselt number over the absorber surface for Reynolds number (Re) of 3000–22,000 and roughness parameters such as relative roughness pitch (P/e) of 5–12, angle of attack (α) ranges of 30°–75° and relative roughness width (W/w) of 3–7. The Nusselt number and friction factor with this roughness are compared with smooth surface for similar flow condition. The maximum enhancement in Nusselt number and friction factor are obtained to be 2.91 and 2.85 times that of smooth surface, respectively. The optimum values of the roughness parameters are evaluated based on the thermo-hydraulic performance parameter criterion. The optimum roughness parameters obtained as the relative roughness pitch (P/e) of 8, angle of attack (α) of 60° and relative roughness width (W/w) of 5. The maximum value of the thermo-hydraulic performance parameter (THPP) is observed to be 2.95. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the performance of a turbine structure of the oil and gas Egyptian company in terms of reliability, mean time to failure (MTTF), mean time to repair (MTTR) and mean time between failures (MTBF) under fuzzy environment and working criteria. This paper examines the impact of the failure of various components on the complete turbine structure of the oil and gas system. Design/methodology/approach: To overcome the problem of uncertain behavior of available data for various components, the right triangular generalized fuzzy number (RTrGFN) is proposed to be taken into the account to express the uncertainty which attains some tolerance in data. Furthermore, reliability indices are calculated with the help of the Lambda Tau method and the arithmetic operations on right generalized triangular fuzzy numbers (RTrGFN). Findings: This paper explores the reliability of a repairable 3 out of 4 structure of turbines and along with the other parameters namely MTTF, MTTR and MTBF; under a fuzzy environment. Failure rates and repair times are expected to be exponential. The ranking of components of the structure is being found to decide the priority for maintenance. Originality/value: This paper investigates the performance of the system with different spread/tolerance like 15%, 25% and 50% of crisp data. It helps to predict realistic results in the range value. To enhance the system's performance, the most important item of the system requires greater attention. For this, the authors find the sensitive part by ranking. For ranking, an extended approach has been developed to find the sensitive unit of the system by using the right triangular generalized fuzzy number. This paper explores the most and least sensitive component of the system, which helps the maintenance department to plan the maintenance action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seaweeds are well known for having a wealth of nutritional benefits and providing ecological support to associated fauna. Seasonality influences the biochemical characteristics, affecting their ecological and economic values. In the present study, we evaluated pigments, primary and secondary metabolites, minerals, and antioxidant properties of green seaweed Chaetomorpha antennina growing on the intertidal rocks along the Covelong coast, India, in different seasons (from June 2019 to March 2020). Significant variations were found in the levels of antioxidants, minerals, and metabolites in different seasons, e.g., amino acid levels were the highest in post-monsoon and the lowest in summer. In monsoon, we found the highest concentration of fatty acids in the thalli. Lipid peroxidation and total antioxidant activity were at their maximum levels during post-monsoon, which indicated oxidative damage responses. No significant variations were found in the levels of photosynthetic pigments. The outcomes indeed suggested seasonal variations in the biochemical and nutrient profile of C. antennina. We suggest that the harvesting/collection of C. antennina for different nutrients and metabolites should be performed in the respective seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microphysics behind the formation of rain droplets is an important feature influencing orographic precipitation at any location. The raindrop microphysics were determined for the precipitation in Mahabaleshwar, the orographic region of the Western Ghats in the Indian subcontinent, using Joss–Waldvogel Disdrometer (JWD) observational data for the period from 2013 to 2019. Smaller (< 1 mm) rain droplets were found to be dominant in monsoon seasons, while in the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon, a higher concentration of medium-sized (1–3 mm) and larger (> 3 mm) rain droplets were observed. In each season, the peak rain droplet concentration moved toward giant rain droplets with increasing rain rate. The probability density function of mass-weighted mean diameter (Dm), normalized-intercept parameter (log10Nw), rain rate (log10R), liquid water content (log10W), shape parameter (µ), and slope parameter (Λ) indicate a clear distinction in all three seasons. High Dm and lower log10Nw mean values were observed during the convective precipitation, while the opposite was observed during the stratiform rainfall of each season, except for the post-monsoon convective precipitation. Monsoon rainfall of both convective and stratiform nature had the lowest Dm and highest log10Nw compared to the respective cloud structure of pre-monsoon and post-monsoon. The Dm and log10Nw values in post-monsoon stratiform rain lay between the values observed in the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. At the same time, the convective precipitation in the post-monsoon had the highest Dm value, with a larger log10Nw than the pre-monsoon convective precipitation. A unique µ-Λ quadratic equation was also determined for the pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon season rain events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma of B cells caused by Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpes Virus (KSHV). KSHV encoded latent and lytic antigens promote oncogenic transformation and evade apoptosis through the modulation of various host cellular signaling pathways. Nm23-H1 is a known metastatic suppressor whose expression inversely correlates with the metastatic potential of different cancers. Here, we set out to assess the role of Nm23-H1 in PEL development. Methods: Flow cytometry and real-time PCR assays were performed for Nm23-H1 expression analysis. Induction of apoptosis was assessed using Western blotting and flow cytometry-based assays in Nm23-H1 overexpressing cells. Co-immunoprecipitation assays, confocal microscopy and imaging flow cytometry were performed to determine Nm23-H1 and vFLIP K13 protein-protein interaction. A PEL cell-induced xenograft model was established in non-obese diabetic/severely combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice to validate the effect of Nm23-H1 overexpression. Results: We found that Nm23-H1 expression was significantly downregulated both at transcriptional and protein levels in PEL cell lines and that its overexpression triggered mitochondrial-mediated caspase-dependent apoptosis. We revealed Nm23-H1 interacts with the latent protein vFLIP K13 and that Nm23-H1 overexpression leads to inhibition of vFLIP K13 driven nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling with concurrent inhibition of autocrine and paracrine growth factors and downregulation of latent KSHV antigens without induction of active lytic reactivation. We also confirmed the effects of Nm23-H1 overexpression in a PEL cell-induced xenograft model in NOD/SCID mice. Conclusion: Downregulation of Nm23-H1 expression in KSHV-infected PEL cells and its overexpression trigger apoptosis by impairing vFLIP K13-driven NF-κB signaling, suggesting therapeutic implications of Nm23-H1 for primary effusion lymphomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural and magnetic properties of the spinel compound, Li0.5FeCr1.5O4, have been investigated using dc magnetization, neutron depolarization, and neutron diffraction techniques. DC magnetization measurement at 200 Oe has revealed a ferrimagnetic ordering at 417 K and a negative magnetization state between the two compensation temperatures (TComp) of 244 and 256 K. TComp varies with an applied magnetic field and two TComp merge at 256 K for magnetic fields ≥ 500 Oe. The existence of zero domain magnetization around TComp is evident from full recovery of the transmitted neutron beam polarization in a neutron depolarization study. The Rietveld refinement of the neutron diffraction pattern at 430 K reveals that the compound possesses a face centred cubic structure with Fe0.81Li0.19 and Cr1.5Li0.31Fe0.19 as cation distributions at the tetrahedral and octahedral sites, respectively. A temperature dependent neutron diffraction study reveals that the net magnetic moment changes sign near 265 K, across the spin compensation temperature. Both neutron diffraction and mean field calculation show that an asymmetric variation of the sublattice moments as a function of temperature yields a dominance of the ordered tetrahedral site moment over the octahedral site moment below TComp, and vice versa above TComp, and gives a microscopic understanding of the observed magnetization reversal phenomenon. The achieved understanding of magnetization compensation and the high coercivity near TComp have implications for possible use of such ferrimagnetic materials with finite spin polarization as effective spin polarizers/analyzers in spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we demonstrate the effect of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) hole transport layers (HTLs) on degradation of the bulk-heterojunction organic solar cell (OSC) with the combination of two active layers—poly(3-hexylthiophene) and poly[[4,8-bis[(2-ethylhexyl)oxy]benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene-2,6-diyl][3-fluoro-2-[(2-ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno[3,4-b]thiophenediyl]]. The study is performed for unencapsulated conventional structure OSCs exposed to the ambient dark condition. In the self-life test situation, it is found that PEDOT:PSS based devices show an initial higher short circuit current and subsequent faster degradation with time in comparison to the MoO3 based devices. The effects of these HTLs have been shown in terms of better charge extraction and a decrease in the shunt resistance as well as the bulk resistance of the active layer. The charge carrier generation probability evaluated from photocurrent data shows the dominant impact of active layer degradation rather than the oxidation of a top electrode under the ambient condition. This suggested mechanism is further supported by impedance spectroscopy as well as the evaluated transit time, global mobility, and exciton dissociation probability, establishing that the degradation does not much affect the transport property of the active material. Rather, it affects more the carrier generation rate. The low hole extraction barrier in PEDOT:PSS based devices show small transit time and high global mobility compared to MoO3. It is found that during the degradation process, the bulk resistance of the device significantly increases, which reduces the diffusion current in the device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achondroplasia is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder that results in premature ossification of the epiphyseal growth plates and restriction of proximal long bone movement. Herein, we report the anesthetic management of such a patient undergoing stone retrieval in the lithotomy position. He had a restricted ability to flex and abduct the hip joint and lumbar hyperlordosis. These were anticipated to be a concern for the lithotomy position and prone to positional injuries. Hence, the decision was made to position the patient before induction of anesthesia in the presence of surgeons to ensure the optimal exposure needed for the procedure while avoiding any hyperflexion or abduction of the hip and knee joints. The position tolerated by the patient when awake and unsedated should be followed intraoperatively. Achondroplasia is also associated with difficult airway features, obesity, sleep apnea, and multisystem involvement. Careful preoperative evaluation and intraoperative vigilance are needed to manage these patients undergoing surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palpitations in the elderly are mostly of cardiac origin. Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in the elderly, whereas paroxysmal supraventricular tachyarrhythmias are uncommon. Here, we describe the case of an elderly woman who presented with paroxysms of palpitations of 15-year duration and who had been undiagnosed till presenting to our geriatric service. The patient was diagnosed to have a slow-fast type (typical) atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia which was successfully managed with ablation of the slow pathway. The long symptomatic period when the patient remained undiagnosed due to neglect is a notable feature of our case. The case also highlights the unified protocol for the management of narrow complex regular tachyarrhythmias and the definitive role of ablation even in elderly patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, conventional and inverted organic solar cells based on P3HT:PC[60]BM have been explored to understand the effect of deep defect states on the open circuit voltage. The enhancement in the open circuit voltage in the inverted structure compared to the conventional structure has been comprehensively discussed in terms of density of defect states. To comply with the investigation, DC and AC measurements (impedance spectroscopy) at various temperatures have been performed extensively. Enhancement in open circuit voltage at low temperature is observed which is described by the shifting of hole and electron quasi-Fermi levels. The important observation from the defect density of states profile is that the center of Gaussian distribution is shifted to high energy as the temperature is increased which is an indication of the creation of shallow traps in polymers. In the inverted device, the disorder parameter (σ) is 33 meV, whereas in the conventional device it becomes 75 meV. This implies that the energetic disorder is reduced in an inverted device which helps in the improvement of open circuit voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 has emerged as a global pandemic causing millions of critical cases and deaths. Early identification of at-risk patients is crucial for planning triage and treatment strategies. Methods and findings: We performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the pooled prognostic significance of procalcitonin in predicting mortality and severity in patients with COVID-19 using a robust methodology and clear clinical implications. Design: We used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions guidelines. We included thirty-two prospective and retrospective cohort studies involving 13,154 patients. Results: The diagnostic odds ratio of procalcitonin for predicting mortality were estimated to be 11 (95% CI: 7 to 17) with sensitivity, specificity, and summary area under the curveof 0.83 (95% CI: 0.70 to 0.91), 0.69 (95% CI: 0.58 to 0.79), and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.79 to 0.86) respectively. While for identifying severe cases of COVID-19, the odds ratio was 8.0 (95% CI 5.0 to 12.0) with sensitivity, specificity, and summary area under the curve of 0.73 (95% CI 0.67 to 0.78), 0.74 (0.66 to 0.81), and 0.78 (95% CI 0.74 to 0.82) respectively. Conclusion: Procalcitonin has good discriminatory power for predicting mortality and disease severity in COVID-19 patients. Therefore, procalcitonin measurement may help identify potentially severe cases and thus decrease mortality by offering early aggressive treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]