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Abstract There has been an increasing focus on the interplay between physical frailty and cognitive impairment, as both conditions pose significant risks for life-threatening health complications and are receiving considerable attention in global geriatric health initiatives. A recent consensus introduces “cognitive frailty,” denoting the co-existence of physical frailty and cognitive impairment without dementia. This study aims to ascertain the prevalence of cognitive frailty and investigate the factors contributing to gender differentials of cognitive frailty among older adults in India. This study has used the data from the nationally representative survey Longitudinal Ageing Study in India 2017–18. This study included a sample of 13,946 males and 14,989 females aged 60 and above. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted. A proportion test was employed to assess gender disparities and determine the statistical significance of risk factors. Furthermore, multivariate decomposition analysis was performed to identify the extent to which various covariates contribute to explaining the gender differences observed in cognitive frailty. The overall prevalence of cognitive frailty was 4.4%. There was a significant gender difference in cognitive frailty among older adults in India (Difference: 4.3%; p-value

Phase change materials (PCMs) are important constituents for the storage of thermal energy available from the sun. It acts as a bridge between energy demand and supply while reducing the mismatch. Organic and inorganic constituents have been used for a long time for thermal energy storage applications. In recent years, the focus has been shifted to eutectics. A eutectic is a minimum melting substance of two or more constituents. It has the advantage of having a sharp melting temperature and possessing high volumetric heat storage density. The eutectics possess a wide range of temperatures and have the properties of all of their constituents. At present organic-organic, organic-inorganic, and organic-inorganic eutectics are widely studied. In the present paper, various eutectic PCMs for low and medium temperature ranges have been analyzed. Their thermophysical properties and thermal stability and reliability concerning thermal cycling have been thoroughly discussed. The melting temperature lies in the range of −23.50 °C to 80 °C and the latent heat of fusion can be as high as 280 kJ/kg. Thermal cycle tests of up to 30000 have been conducted by various research groups, but at least 300 melt/freeze cycles are recommended so that they can be stable for a year of application. The organic eutectic PCMs are found stable in terms of deviation in melting temperature with the maximum deviation in latent heat of fusion observed was ± 20 %. The inorganic eutectic PCMs are somewhat unstable having a large deviation in melting temperature and latent heat of fusion. The low thermal conductivity of organic eutectics can be eliminated with suitable nanoparticle additives. The leakage issue can be eliminated by providing shape stabilization to the PCMs. These PCMs are suitable for various photovoltaic/thermal, buildings, textiles, solar water heating, solar air heaters, and heat recovery systems applications.

Objectives: Chronic anaemia is a significant health concern, particularly among women of childbearing age. Factors such as menstrual blood loss, childbirth, inadequate nutrition, closely spaced pregnancies, and recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding increase the risk of anaemia. This study investigated whether current contraceptive methods are associated with anaemia in Indian women of reproductive age. Methods: Cross-sectional data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey, conducted in 2019-2021, were used for this investigation. We included only non-pregnant and non-amenorrhoeic women in our analysis, resulting in a final analytical sample of 673 094 women aged 15-49. Bivariate cross-tabulations and multivariable logistic regression were employed to analyse the data. Results: The prevalence of anaemia was 57%, and the adjusted regression models found no significant association between the use of any contraceptive methods and women’s haemoglobin status. Women using traditional contraceptive methods had 1.08 (95% confidence interval, 1.05 to 1.11) times higher odds of having anaemia. Among the modern methods, other than injectables, all other methods—such as an intrauterine device, barrier use, and sterilisation—were associated with higher odds of anaemia compared to women who used contraceptive pills. Conclusions: This study explored the relationship between modern contraceptives and haemoglobin levels in India, revealing that injectables were associated with a notable reduction in the odds of anaemia, whereas traditional contraceptives and other modern methods exhibited positive associations with anaemia. These findings prompt policymakers to focus on anaemia reduction and safe contraceptives. More research is needed to inform decisions, given the scant literature.

In order to evaluate and estimate significant aspects of time series data, various models with varying degrees of variation have been built in the last few years. The overarching goal of study is to examine the variance dynamics of several Indian stock market indexes using Normal and Students-t distributions. The sample data spans a long time period (more than 40 years), from April 1979 to May 2023, and includes dramatic happenings. The econometric method relies heavily on the GARCH models and other statistical investigations. The outcomes contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field. The possible rewards and risks of an investment are the focus of this empirical study. The results encompass the dynamics of financial series, volatility sketching, a statistical and GARCH model feature assessment, and the fitness of series returns. This opens the door to different assessments of the Indian financial market.

This study examines the long-term effects of CO2 emissions, farm mechanization, and other control variables on agricultural production in India from 1960 to 2022. These variables include arable land, fertilizer consumption, GDP, import and export of agricultural raw materials, cereal yield (kg per hectare), and urbanization. To identify the longterm co-integrating relationship between the variables, this study used multiple types of econometric techniques, including the ARDL bound-testing methodology and Johansen co-integration procedure. A meaningful long-term cointegrating relationship between the variables is supported by the empirical findings of the ARDL bound-testing method. The long-term outcomes showed that agricultural productivity is significantly increased by mechanization, exports and imports of agricultural raw materials, and arable land. Results also showed that grain production and fertilizer use had a considerable beneficial impact on agricultural performance; however, CO2 emissions and urbanization have a significant negative impact. Therefore, these findings suggest that India's policymakers should implement more efficient measures to boost investments in agricultural R&D and farm mechanization. By assuring the nation's food security, this will increase agricultural output. To support India's efforts to achieve a sustainable environment and development, the report advises integrating climate change measures into the nation's national strategies, policies, and planning.

Background: Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) is a major contributor to urban pollution and varies sharply at the street level, posing a challenge for air quality modeling. Traditional land use regression models combined with data from fixed monitoring stations may be unable to predict and characterize fine-scale TRAP, especially in complex urban environments influenced by various features. This study aims to estimate fine-scale (50 m) concentrations of nitrogen oxides (NO and NO₂) in Hong Kong using a deep learning (DL) structured model. Methods: We collected data from mobile air quality sensors on buses and crowd-sourced Google real-time traffic status as a proxy for real-time traffic emissions. Our DL model was compared with existing machine learning models to assess performance improvements. Using an interpretable machine learning method, we hierarchically evaluated the global, local, and interaction effects for different features. Results: Our DL model outperformed existing machine learning models, achieving R2 values of 0.72 for NO and 0.69 for NO₂. The incorporation of traffic status as a key predictor improved model performance by 9% to 17%. The interpretable machine learning method revealed the importance of traffic-related features and their pairwise interactions. Conclusion: The results indicate that traffic-related features significantly contribute to TRAP and provide insights and guidance for urban planning. By incorporating crowd-sourced Google traffic information, we assessed traffic abatement scenarios that could inform targeted strategies for improving urban air quality.

Purpose: To report a case of bilateral acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) associated with COVID-19 infection presenting with central scotoma. Observation: A 26-year-old female presented with a chief complaint of bilateral central scotomas for the last seven days. She had a history of fever over the past ten days, and RT-PCR test for COVID-19 was positive on the second day of fever. She had been vaccinated against COVID-19 eight months prior. Her best corrected visual acuity was 6/6 in both eyes on the Snellen chart. Dilated fundus evaluation revealed subtle bilateral perifoveal grey macular lesions. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) demonstrated focal hyperreflectivity at the level of the outer nuclear and plexiform layer consistent with bilateral AMN. Near‐infrared reflectance (NIR) and red-free (RF) imaging showed large, confluent hyporeflective lesions in the right eye and discrete petaloid lesions with apices pointing toward the fovea in the left eye. OCT angiography (OCTA) revealed decreased flow signal at the level of the deep capillary plexus (DCP) and choriocapillaris (CC) in both eyes. Automated visual field testing (Humprey Field Analyzer (HFA) 24-2) revealed bilateral central scotoma with depression of adjacent points. After two weeks, the patient had depressed visual fields on HFA 10-2. At two months of final follow-up, OCT macula, NIR and RF images revealed resolving AMN lesions in both eyes. OCTA showed an increase in perfusion at the level of the DCP. There was a decrease in scotoma density on HFA 10-2, suggestive of resolving AMN. Conclusion and importance: AMN with central scotoma as presenting feature of COVID-19 is rare. Fundus findings may be very subtle in AMN, but NIR and RF imaging delineate the lesions well. OCT, NIR imaging, OCTA and HFA 10-2 can be used to assess the clinical course of AMN.

The research study voyage commences with the foundational objective of fitting a suitable Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic (GARCH) model to assess market volatility, a fundamental pillar of financial analysis. This research embarks on an ambitious quest to predict and understand stock market volatility within the realms of the DJIA and S&P 500 of USA and ATX index of Austria using different sophisticated GARCH models. The dataset used in this study comprises daily stock market data for two key indices: the S&P 500 Index, representing the USA stock market, and the ATX Index, representing the Austria stock market. Additionally, the DJIA Index, another representative of the USA stock market, was included. The dataset consists of 5967 daily observations over the specified time period from January 3, 2000, to September 21, 2023. The observation of results, analysis and discussion depicts that PARCH model shows most promising results and found suitable to model the volatility patterns of the selected indices. The findings and methodologies presented in this paper can be seen as a solid foundation upon which to build future investigations, refining our ability to anticipate market movements and make informed decisions in an uncertain financial landscape. In closing, this research not only contributes to the body of knowledge in financial econometrics but also underscores the importance of modeling long-term stock market behavior with precision and diligence.

Introduction: Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR), an important treatment for rheumatic mitral valve disease, is being widely promoted worldwide. MVR using the total leaflet preservation technique can produce good results; however, patient-specific factors and anatomical considerations must be taken into account when selecting the appropriate surgical approach. Aim: To investigate the benefits of Posterior Leaflet Preservation (PLP) in MVR in individuals with severe mitral stenosis. Materials and Methods: The current prospective interventional study included patients with Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) who had severe mitral valve stenosis and/or regurgitation and underwent MVR between December 2019 and December 2021 in the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. The study included 50 patients with MVR (PLP) to preserve the posterior leaflets and 50 patients with classic MVR (no PLP). Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF), Left Ventricular End-Systolic Diameter (LVESD), and Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Diameter (LVEDD) were measured before surgery, one, three, and six months after surgery. Results: The majority of patients in the present study were between 23 and 46 years old. The PLP group consisted of 17 men and 33 women, while the non-PLP group had 16 men and 34 women. The difference in cross-clamp time between Group-A and B was significant (p=0.0001). Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB) time was significantly different between Group-A and B (p=0.001). Only 4 (8%) patients in Group-A had low cardiac output syndrome, compared with 8 (16%) of patients in Group-B. Comparison of LVEF between groups over time revealed no significant difference (p=0.05). The mean change in LVEF from pre-operative to six months in Group-A was significant (p=0.004), but there was no significant change in Group-B (p=0.25). Conclusion: PLP had no improved beneficial outcome on left ventricular performance in cases with rheumatic stenosis during the six-month follow-up. Even after long-term follow-up, haemodynamic valve properties do not alter with adequate PLP.

The act of modeling and forecasting stock market volatility has become essential to risk management practice; it has become one of the most prevalent subjects in financial econometrics and has been mainly and continuously used in the valuation of financial assets and the Value at Risk, as well as the pricing of options and derivatives. The purpose of this paper is to contrast the FIGARCH model in the prospect of establishing the best algorithm to forecast PSI 20 index (PSI stands for Portuguese Stock Index). This study analyzed PSI 20 index to identify the behavior of the Portugal stock market in terms of volatility and then evaluated the forecasting ability of GARCH family models using Portugal PSI 20 index sample data for the long period from May 2010 - August 2023 (which is more than 13 years in daily data). There are 3396 daily observations. The results indicated that the PSI 20 index’s volatility is asymmetric. The present empirical investigation also seeks to illustrate the potential for investment returns as well as the associated risk. Our findings may have implications for risk management in Portugal, as well as a deeper understanding of the PSI-20 Portugal stock market volatility dynamics, given the scarcity of prior such studies.

The solar energy industry's positive impact on India's GDP is perceptible through increased investments, innovation, and enhanced energy security. As the nation continues to prioritize clean energy solutions, the solar sector stands as a key player driving both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability, aligning India with world wide determinations to battle climate change and encourage a greener future. As the Indian government continues to champion initiatives promoting renewable energy, Solar Energy Companies have seen unprecedented growth and have become increasingly attractive to investors seeking long-term, sustainable returns. This influx of interest, however, brings with it the challenge of navigating the volatile and dynamic nature of the stock market. In this context, forecasting the stock prices of solar energy corporations in India becomes a pivotal aspect of investment strategy for both institutional and retail investors. This paper targets to add to the prevailing body of knowledge by evaluating the efficacy of the Random Forest model, a machine learning technique known for its versatility and robustness, in forecasting the stock prices of top four Solar Energy Companies in India on the basis of market capitalization, by using the daily opening, high, low and closing stock prices ranging from 1st October, 2019 to 30th September, 2023 i.e. 4 years. The findings reveal that high Coefficient of Determination (R2) values for all companies, ranging from 0.9928 to 0.9939 is a clear indication of the model's ability to predict a substantial portion of the variance in each company's stock prices. But in case of Adani Green Energy Ltd a notably higher MSE and RMSE are exhibited, implying a greater degree of fluctuation in prediction accuracy compared to the other companies. On the other hand, all the selected solar energy companies display lower MAE values, indicating tightly clustered predictions around actual values.

The fintech segment is currently one of the most rapidly growing industries, attracting numerous investors who anticipate substantial returns in the future. Notably, not only individual retail investors but also mutual fund agencies are actively engaged in predicting stock prices within this sector to maximize their trading gains. The purpose of the study is to formulate stock forecasting models for top three Fintech Companies of India i.e., Policy Bazar, One 97 Communications Paytm Ltd., and Niyogin Ltd. Using Random Forest model with high-frequency data in Python. The literature review section also proves that this study is a novel piece of work as none of the existing research study focused on predicting stock prices of Fintech Companies of India using Random Forest model. The data is extracted from www.moneycontrol.com and www.kotaksecurities.com, for the period from 1st October, 2022–30 th September, 2023. The study deals about 293,280 data points i.e., 3 companies @ 97,760 each. It has been found that the forecasting model of random forest provides very successful results for prediction as the co-efficient of determination of all the selected companies is more than 95%.

Abstract Background Pregnancy registration is one of the most critical components of women’s reproductive health because it is the gateway to entering the continuum of care services such as antenatal care, institutional delivery, and postnatal care. There is a lack of studies exploring the relationship between pregnancy intention and pregnancy registration, especially in the Indian context. Method This study used the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21) data to explore the relationship between birth intention and failure of pregnancy registration. The bivariate and multivariate (binary logistic regression) analysis was carried out. Results Adjusting the effects of socio-demographic and economic characteristics, compared with women with an intended pregnancy, the odds of failure of pregnancy registration were significantly high among women with a mistimed pregnancy (OR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.47–1.73) and unwanted pregnancy (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.26–1.52). The study found pregnancy intention as a significant predictor of pregnancy registration. Conclusions Results suggest strengthening the interaction of grassroots-level health workers with women, especially those with possibly lower healthcare autonomy and unintended pregnancy. Higher and earlier pregnancy registration will enhance maternal healthcare utilization and reduce adverse health consequences to mothers and children, thus ensuring better maternal and child health.

Abstract Objectives The present study aimed to examine the association of multimorbidity status with food insecurity among disadvantaged groups such as Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Class (OBCs) in India. Method The data for this study was derived from the first wave of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI),2017–18, focusing on 46,953 individuals aged 45 years and over who belong to SCs, STs, and OBCs groups. Food insecurity was measured based on the set of five questions developed by the Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance Program (FANTA). Bivariate analysis was performed to examine the prevalence of food insecurity by multimorbidity status along with socio-demographic and health-related factors. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and interaction models were used. Results The overall prevalence of multimorbidity was about 16% of the study sample. The prevalence of food insecurity was higher among people with multimorbidity compared to those without multimorbidity. Unadjusted and adjusted models suggested that people with multimorbidity were more likely to be food insecure than people without multimorbidity. While middle-aged adults with multimorbidity and men with multimorbidity had a higher risk of food insecurity. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest an association between multimorbidity and food insecurity among socially disadvantaged people in India. Middle-aged adults experiencing food insecurity tend to reduce the quality of their diet and consume a few low-cost, nutritionally deficient meals to maintain caloric intake, putting them again at risk for several negative health outcomes. Therefore, strengthening disease management could reduce food insecurity in those facing multimorbidity.

Abstract Background In India, more than half of the newborns experience delayed breastfeeding, and non-exclusive breastfeeding is practiced in 63% of babies below the age of six months. The goal of this study is to investigate the extent to which external environment, demographic and socioeconomic, pregnancy and birthing characteristics, as well as utilization of maternal care services, are associated with delayed initiation and non-exclusive breastfeeding among children in India. Methods Data was gathered from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), which was conducted in 2019-21. This study used information on 85,037 singleton infants aged 0–23 months and 22,750 singleton infants aged 0–5 months. Delayed initiation of breastfeeding and non-exclusive breastfeeding was used as outcome variables in this study. Unadjusted and adjusted multivariable binary logistic regression was performed to analyse the association of delayed breastfeeding and non-exclusive breastfeeding with selected background characteristics. Results Factors significantly associated with increased risks of delayed initiation of breastfeeding included infants from in the central region (OR 2.19; 95% CI 2.09, 2.29), mothers in the 20 to 29 years age group at the time of childbirth (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.98, 1.05), caesarean deliveries (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.90, 2.05). The likelihoods for non-exclusive breastfeeding significantly increased among children belonging to the richest household status (OR 1.30; 95% CI 1.17, 1.45), mothers who had less than nine months of pregnancy period (OR 1.15; 95% CI 1.06, 1.25), and mothers who gave birth in non-health facility (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.05, 1.31). Conclusions The connections between several different categories of factors and non-exclusive breastfeeding and delayed breastfeeding initiation show the need for comprehensive public health programmes using a multi-sectoral approach to promote breastfeeding behaviours in India.

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of auto simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) and alloSLET in patients with different causes of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Study Type: Single-center prospective interventional study. Materials and Methods: Patients visiting tertiary referral hospital between April 2019 and March 2020 satisfying the criteria for labeling LSCD, also inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled. Results: Thirty-one eyes of 31 patients (20 men, 11 women) underwent SLET surgery (15 autoSLET, 16 alloSLET). The most common etiology in patients undergone SLET was chemical injury (11, 35.5%) followed by Stevens–Johnson syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (SJS/TEN) (9, 29.0%). SJS/TEN was the most common cause of bilateral LSCD. Combined successful outcome of autoSLET and alloSLET was 64.5%. Conclusion: SLET is a simple, useful surgery to restore LSC and it does not require any specialized center and can be done in a center with limited resources.

ABSTRACT Bacterial volatile compounds have emerged as important chemical messengers between bacteria themselves as well as in their interactions with other organisms. One of the earliest examples of bioactive volatiles emitted by bacteria is hydrogen cyanide (HCN), which was long considered a mere respiratory toxin conferring competitive advantage to cyanide-producing strains. Using cyanide-deficient mutants in two Pseudomonas strains and global transcriptome analysis, we demonstrate that the impact of HCN is much more global than previously thought. We first observed that the lack of cyanogenesis (i.e., the ability to produce HCN) in emitting strains led to massive transcriptome reprogramming affecting diverse traits such as motility and biofilm formation (respectively inhibited vs promoted by HCN), or the production of siderophores, phenazines, and other antimicrobial compounds (repressed by HCN). We then exposed non-cyanogenic strains to biogenically emitted HCN from neighboring cells and observed similar transcriptome modulations and phenotypic changes, suggesting that HCN not only acts endogenously but also exogenously, remotely manipulating important traits involved in competition and virulence, e.g., siderophore production, in other organisms. Cyanogenesis in Pseudomonas has long been known to play a role in both the virulence of opportunistic pathogens and the efficient biocontrol activity of plant-beneficial strains; however, this impact was so far thought to occur solely through the inhibition of respiration. We demonstrate here new ecological roles for a small and fast-diffusing volatile compound, which opens novel avenues in our understanding of and ability to interfere with important processes taking place in pathogenic and beneficial Pseudomonas strains. IMPORTANCE Bacteria communicate by exchanging chemical signals, some of which are volatile and can remotely reach other organisms. HCN was one of the first volatiles discovered to severely impact exposed organisms by inhibiting their respiration. Using HCN-deficient mutants in two Pseudomonas strains, we demonstrate that HCN’s impact goes beyond the sole inhibition of respiration and affects both emitting and receiving bacteria in a global way, modulating their motility, biofilm formation, and production of antimicrobial compounds. Our data suggest that bacteria could use HCN not only to control their own cellular functions, but also to remotely influence the behavior of other bacteria sharing the same environment. Since HCN emission occurs in both clinically and environmentally relevant Pseudomonas, these findings are important to better understand or even modulate the expression of bacterial traits involved in both virulence of opportunistic pathogens and in biocontrol efficacy of plant-beneficial strains.

Background/objectives: Obesity and bone diseases have increased substantially worldwide in the last three decades, particularly among older adults. This study assesses the association between obesity and bone disease among older adults in India. Methods: The data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) was considered for analysis. A total of 65,173 individuals above the age of 45 years were analyzed. The descriptive statistics, multivariable logistic regression and mediation analysis are done to analyse the determinants of obesity and bone diseases. Results: Sixteen percent of the older adults in India had bone diseases. Females (OR = 1.453, 95%CI = 1.254,1.684) with obesity (OR = 1.571, 95%CI = 1.344,1.837), those aged more than 70 years (OR = 1.834, 95% CI = 1.540,2.184), not in union, from SC category, from rural areas, consumed tobacco (OR = 1.269, 95%CI = 1.209, 1.331) and alcohol (OR = 0.902, 95%CI = 0.867, 0.950), and with no physical activity (OR = 1.228, 95%CI = 1.087, 1.387) in daily life had higher risks of bone diseases. The results of the mediation analysis showed the relationship between bone disease and overweight/obesity was significantly mediated by the three modifiable risk factors: alcohol intake, smoking, and physical activity. Conclusion: The association between obesity and bone disease was found to be statistically significant in this study. Women, not-in-union, the older, and those without any education, those have lack of health awareness are more likely to develop bone-related issues in their later life. Research investigating the relationship between obesity and bone health has the potential to identify novel targets for the treatment of bone-related illnesses, such as osteoporosis, fractures, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract The main aim of this simulation work is to assess the financial possibility analysis of 10 MWP grid-associated solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants in seven cities i.e. Lucknow, Agra, Meerut, Gorakhpur, Kanpur, Allahabad, and Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh (UP) state of India with the RETScreen Software. The presented research work demonstrates the method of selection of profitable locations for solar PV power plants according to financial viability indicators. It is found that Allahabad city is the most profitable site with values of 16,686 MWh of electricity exported to the grid (EEG), US$20,896.30/year of electricity export revenue (EER), 9.4 years of simple payback period (SPP), 7.7 years of equity payback period (EPP), 19545.9 tCO2/year of GHG emission reduction, US$3492.82/year of the annual life cycle savings (ALCS), 1.5 benefit-cost (B-C) ratio, US$27394.59 of net present value (NPV), 16.5% internal rate of return on equity (IRR-equity), 12.3% modified internal rate of return on equity (MIRR-equity), 5.4% internal rate of return on assets (IRR-assets), and 7% modified internal rate of return on assets (MIRR-assets). The second most profitable site is found in Gorakhpur city and Varanasi city is found the least profitable site. The other two cities, Agra and Kanpur are not found suitable because of the negative values of NPV and ALCS.

Purpose: TO study the impact of covid 19 in a tertiary eye care hospital. Study type: single centre retrospective observational study. Method: Novel corona virus "COVID-19" is now an established global Pandemic. Index case of Novel Corona virus "COVID-19" virus was first reported from Wuhan, People's Republic of China on 31 December 2019. Bihar with a population of 120 million is one of the most densely populated and least developed states in India. With 1 doctor/29,000 persons and1 hospital bed/8,645 people, it was expected to be one of the worst hit state in COVID-19 pandemic. All patient visiting an ophthalmologist were seen with full precaution and with a practical Standard Operating Protocol (SOP), advised by World Health Organization (WHO), Centre for disease control (CDC), MOHFW, American Academy Of Ophthalmology(AAO) and All India Ophthalmological Society(AIOS). Patient visiting and treatment protocol followed in a tertiary care hospital were analysed. Results: 3617(2432 males ,1185 females) new patients and 3145(2149 males, 996 females) old/follow up patients visited RIO OPD from lockdown (25 march 2020) till unlock 4(30 September, 2020) which is about 85.41% decrement in comparison to last year in same period 21747(13335 males, 8412 females) new patients and 24610(15508 males, 9102 females). Conclusion: Proper use of n95 masks, gloves, caps, face shield, PPE kit while examining patients and operating them were few important precautions. Regular use of sanitizer, hand washing, minimizing patient doctor contact time, minimal hospital stays, use of artificial intelligence are few other ways practiced to prevent exposure to COVID 19. This pandemic has taught us a lot about people unity cooperation, what is important in life, ophthalmologically tele-ophthalmology will play a big role in future an evident in this pandemic.

The characteristics of terrestrial droughts are closely linked to simultaneous fluctuations in climatic factors, notably influenced by sea surface temperature (SST). This study explores the response of vegetation photosynthesis, indicated by solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF), in India during the summer monsoon period (JJAS) under drought conditions. Notably, statistically significant associations between SST variations in the tropical Indian Ocean and land-based drought responses (precipitation, temperature, soil moisture, and SIF) were observed, which were attributed to atmospheric teleconnections. The positive phases of El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) significantly impacted SST, triggering severe droughts in India in 2009 and 2015. The results revealed that positive SST anomalies weaken monsoon flow during the onset period, reducing moisture transmission to the Indian subcontinent. In 2009, the precipitation anomaly showed severe drought conditions (

Abstract Background In India, the usage of modern contraception methods among women is relatively lower in comparison to other developed economies. Even within India, there is a state-wise variation in family planning use that leads to unintended pregnancies. Significantly less evidence is available regarding the determinants of modern contraception use and the level of inequalities associated with this. Therefore, the present study has examined the level of inequalities in modern contraception use among currently married women in India. Methods This study used the fourth round of National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) conducted in 2015-16. Our analysis has divided the uses of contraception into three modern methods of family planning such as Short-Acting Reversible Contraception (SARC), Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) and permanent contraception methods. SARC includes pills, injectable, and condoms, while LARC includes intrauterine devices, implants, and permanent contraception methods (i.e., male and female sterilization). We have employed a concentration index to examine the level of socioeconomic inequalities in utilizing modern contraception methods. Results Our results show that utilization of permanent methods of contraception is more among the currently married women in the higher age group (40–49) as compared to the lower age group (25–29). Women aged 25–29 years are 3.41 times (OR: 3.41; 95% CI: 3.30–3.54) more likely to use SARC methods in India. Similarly, women with 15 + years of education and rich are more likely to use the LARC methods. At the regional level, we have found that southern region states are three times more likely to use permanent methods of contraception. Our decomposition results show that women age group (40–49), women having 2–3 children and richer wealth quintiles are more contributed for the inequality in modern contraceptive use among women. Conclusions The use of SARC and LARC methods by women who are marginalized and of lower socioeconomic status is remarkably low. Universal free access to family planning methods among marginalized women and awareness campaigns in the rural areas could be a potential policy prescription to reduce the inequalities of contraceptive use among currently married women in India.

Cataract causes bilateral blindness in 20 million people globally, the vast majority of whom live in developing countries. Manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS) has emerged as an efficient and economical alternative to phacoemulsification, giving comparable results in terms of final visual gain. One of the important determinants of postoperative visual gain is the status of the corneal endothelium. Multiple factors such as corneal distortion, irrigation solution turbulence, mechanical trauma by instruments, nuclear fragments, intraocular lens contact, and free oxygen radicals, all have been implicated in causing corneal damage during cataract surgery. MSICS with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation has been reported to cause an endothelial cell loss of 15.83%, which is comparable with other modes of cataract surgery like extracapsular cataract extraction and phacoemulsification. Thorough preoperative assessment of endothelial status and taking necessary steps for endothelial protection during surgery can decrease the endothelial cell loss and overall burden of pseudophakic bullous keratopathy. In addition to surgical techniques, the type of irrigating solutions, ocular viscoelastic devices, intracameral dyes, and drugs all affect the endothelial cell status. This review presents a summary of available literature on the protection of endothelial cells during different steps of MSICS. This is especially relevant for developing countries where large-scale MSICS cataract surgeries are performed to decrease the cataract blindness burden.

The conventional definition of multimorbidity may not address the complex treatment needs resulting from interactions between multiple conditions, impacting self-rated health (SRH). In India, there is limited research on healthcare use and SRH considering diverse disease combinations in individuals with multimorbidity. This study aims to identify multimorbidity clusters related to healthcare use and determine if it improves the self-rated health of individuals in different clusters. This study extracted information from cross-sectional data of the first wave of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), conducted in 2017-18. The study participants were 31,373 people aged ≥ 60 years. A total of nineteen chronic diseases were incorporated to identify the multimorbidity clusters using latent class analysis (LCA) in the study. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between identified clusters and healthcare use. A propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was utilised to further examine the health benefit (i.e., SRH) of using healthcare in each identified cluster. LCA analysis identified five different multimorbidity clusters: relatively healthy' (68.72%), 'metabolic disorder (16.26%), 'hypertension-gastrointestinal-musculoskeletal' (9.02%), 'hypertension-gastrointestinal' (4.07%), 'complex multimorbidity' (1.92%). Older people belonging to the complex multimorbidity [aOR:7.03, 95% CI: 3.54-13.96] and hypertension-gastrointestinal-musculoskeletal [aOR:3.27, 95% CI: 2.74-3.91] clusters were more likely to use healthcare. Using the nearest neighbor matching method, results from PSM analysis demonstrated that healthcare use was significantly associated with a decline in SRH across all multimorbidity clusters. Findings from this study highlight the importance of understanding multimorbidity clusters and their implications for healthcare utilization and patient well-being. Our findings support the creation of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) focusing on a patient-centric approach to optimize multimorbidity management in older people. Additionally, finding suggest the urgency of inclusion of counseling and therapies for addressing well-being when treating patients with multimorbidity.

Manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS) preserves its utility as a cost-effective and efficient strategy for mitigating cataract-associated blindness. Numerous techniques of nucleus delivery in MSICS have been described in the literature. The fish hook technique of nucleus extraction was advocated in 1997 and has been popular for high-volume surgery in limited pockets of the world. This article describes in detail the steps involved in the construction of a fish hook, tips of nucleus extraction with the help of a fish hook, and the pros and cons of fish hook-based MSICS through text, diagram, and video supplement.

Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), CSE (cystathionine γ-lyase) and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) have emerged as three significant sources of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in various forms of mammalian cancer. Here, we investigated the functional role of CBS’ and 3-MST’s catalytic activity in the murine breast cancer cell line EO771. The CBS/CSE inhibitor aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA) and the 3-MST inhibitor 2-[(4-hydroxy-6-methylpyrimidin-2-yl)sulfanyl]-1-(naphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-one (HMPSNE) were used to assess the role of endogenous H2S in the modulation of breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, bioenergetics and viability in vitro. Methods included measurements of cell viability (MTT and LDH assays), cell proliferation and in vitro wound healing (IncuCyte) and cellular bioenergetics (Seahorse extracellular flux analysis). CBS and 3-MST, as well as expression were detected by Western blotting; H2S production was measured by the fluorescent dye AzMC. The results show that EO771 cells express CBS, CSE and 3-MST protein, as well as several enzymes involved in H2S degradation (SQR, TST, and ETHE1). Pharmacological inhibition of CBS or 3-MST inhibited H2S production, suppressed cellular bioenergetics and attenuated cell proliferation. Cell migration was only inhibited by the 3-MST inhibitor, but not the CBS/CSE inhibitor. Inhibition of CBS/CSE of 3-MST did not significantly affect basal cell viability; inhibition of 3-MST (but not of CBS/CSE) slightly enhanced the cytotoxic effects of oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide challenge). From these findings, we conclude that endogenous H2S, generated by 3-MST and to a lower degree by CBS/CSE, significantly contributes to the maintenance of bioenergetics, proliferation and migration in murine breast cancer cells and may also exert a minor role as a cytoprotectant.

Abstract The leaf curl disease of Jatropha caused by geminiviruses results in heavy economic losses. In the present study, we report the identification of a new strain of a Jatropha leaf curl Gujarat virus (JLCuGV), which encodes six ORFs with each one having RNA silencing suppressor activity. Therefore, three artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs; C1/C4, C2/C3 and V1/V2) were designed employing overlapping regions, each targeting two ORFs of JLCuGV genomic DNA and transformed in tobacco. The C1/C4 and C2/C3 amiRNA transgenics were resistant while V1/V2 amiRNA transgenics were tolerant against JLCuGV. The relative level of amiRNA inversely related to viral load indicating a correlation with disease resistance. The assessment of photosynthetic parameters suggests that the transgenics perform significantly better in response to JLCuGV infiltration as compared to wild type (WT). The metabolite contents were not altered remarkably in amiRNA transgenics, but sugar metabolism and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle showed noticeable changes in WT on virus infiltration. The overall higher methylation and demethylation observed in amiRNA transgenics correlated with decreased JLCuGV accumulation. This study demonstrates that amiRNA transgenics showed enhanced resistance to JLCuGV while efficiently maintaining normalcy in their photosynthesis and metabolic pathways as well as homeostasis in the methylation patterns.

Abstract Background Fungal sphenoid sinusitis mimicking as malignant tumor and invading the pituitary fossa is an uncommon entity. This report aims to highlight radiological salient features to help differentiate fungal lesion from malignant tumor in sphenoidal sinus mass lesions. Case presentation We intend to report a case of middle-aged female who presented with gradual progressive diminution of vision since 3 years complicated with acute attack of unilateral headache and numbness. Computed tomography (CT) showed hyperdense lesion involving the sphenoid sinus extending into pituitary fossa and bilateral cavernous sinuses with smooth bony remodeling. Lesion appeared hypointense on T2-weighted and hyperintense on T1-weighted images on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Surgical excision of the lesion was done and pathological examination showed fungal hyphae and aspergillus fumigatus species on culture after 2 weeks of incubation. Post-operative CT revealed empty sinuses with surrounding bone remodeling. Conclusion Combination of T1 hyperintensity, T2 hypointensity, and hyperdense sinus is a strong predictor of fungal mass lesion involving sphenoid sinus.

Mucormycosis isolated to the mandible is a rare presentation occurring generally after dental procedures. The case we report presented with discharging sinuses over facial region with radiological appearance of isolated osteomyelitis of the mandible. The patient used to apply an addictive dental powder over his teeth leading to caries. Following this, he pulled out all his teeth, which probably led to his condition. Invasive sampling revealed mucormycosis. An extensive search for an underlying immunodeficiency revealed that the patient had chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). Despite a prolonged course of L-Amphotericin B, the patient continued to have intermittent pus discharge and surgical debridement and curettage was eventually required. The patient had a chronic course with minimal soft tissue involvement which initially did not raise the suspicion of mucormycosis. The main learning point is that an unusual invasive fungal infection in an otherwise healthy host can be the first symptom of an underlying primary immunodeficiency, like CGD. Invasive fungal infections in patients with CGD often have an indolent course.

This paper deals with the theoretical investigation of the two phase change materials (PCMs) that can be used as a latent heat storage (LHS) media. The two PCMs chosen were composed of fatty acids i.e. capric acid (CA), lauric acid (LA), and myristic acid (MA) having weight composition CA-LA-MA (30/35/35 wt.%) (CLM355) and CA-LA-MA (40/30/30 wt.%) (CLM433). The calculations were made on the melt fraction considering the conduction only with a two-dimensional simulation approach based on enthalpy. The different container materials that were chosen for undertaking this work include glass, tin, stainless steel (SS), aluminum, aluminum mixed (AM), and copper. The result showed that lower thermal conductivities values of the container material made a significant contribution to the melt fraction rather than the higher ones. Out of the two PCMs, CLM355 showed better compatibility with the container materials. The initial temperature of the PCM kept on the container does not influence its melting rate. The outer wall temperature affects the melt fraction that increases with an increase in the temperature difference between the outer wall and the melting temperature of the PCM. It has also been observed that the melting rate is independent of the thickness of the container material.

This paper aims to evaluate the techno-economical and environmental viability of the solar water heater (SWH) system applications in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors of India through the RETScreen Expert Clean Energy Management Software. The three different geographical locations have been selected, namely Leh, Amethi (Jais), and Ludhiana districts for residential, commercial, and industrial case studies respectively. The three different locations have been chosen for each case study to exhibit the applicability and performance of SWH systems at different geographical locations of the Indian climate. The performance of SWH models is evaluated by a solar fraction (SF). The average values of SF obtained are 74, 64.48, and 13 correspondings to residential, commercial, and industrial models. It is also found that the cumulative value of greenhouse gas emission reduction (GHGR) potential for residential, commercial, and industrial sectors is 155.9 tCO2, 2419.3 tCO2, and 492.3 tCO2 per year for 25 years of project life. The cumulative value of the annual energy saving of each model is also calculated as 111.3 MWh, 1728.6 MWh, and 313.8 MWh. The financial viability of the models is presented by parameters like Simple Payback Period (SPP), Equity Payback Period (EPP), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Modified Internal Rate of Return (MIRR). The average value of SPP for models is 4.83 yr, 8.99 yr, and 3.90 yr corresponding to residential, commercial, and industrial models. The average value of the IRR of each model is also as 30.36%, 27.89%, and 38.77%.

Researchers have long been concerned about the association between depression and the prevalence of multiple chronic diseases or multimorbidity in older persons. However, the underlying pathway or mechanism in the multimorbidity-depression relationship is still unknown. Data were extracted from a baseline survey of the Longitudinal Ageing Survey of India (LASI) conducted during 2017–18 (N = 31,464; aged ≥ 60 years). Depression was assessed using the 10-item Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association. The Karlson–Holm–Breen (KHB) method was adopted for mediation analysis. The prevalence of depression among older adults was nearly 29% (men: 26% and women 31%). Unadjusted and adjusted estimates in binary logistic regression models suggested an association between multimorbidity and depression (UOR = 1.28; 95% CIs 1.27–1.44 and AOR = 1.12; 95% CIs 1.12–1.45). The association was particularly slightly strong in the older men. In addition, the association was mediated by functional health such as Self Rated Health (SRH) (proportion mediated: 40%), poor sleep (35.15%), IADL disability (22.65%), ADL disability (21.49%), pain (7.92%) and by behavioral health such as physical inactivity (2.28%). However, the mediating proportion was higher among older women as compared to older men. Physical inactivity was not found to be significant mediator for older women. The findings of this population-based study revealed that older people with multimorbidity are more likely to suffer depressive symptoms in older ages, suggesting the need for more chronic disease management and research. Multimorbidity and depression may be mediated by certain functional health factors, especially in older women. Further longitudinal research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms of this association so that future preventive initiatives may be properly guided.

Being one of the major energy consumers, cooking is a necessary part of daily life. Non renewable cooking fuel sources, such as wood or cow dung cause hazardous pollution and a poor ecosystem worldwide. Over the past few decades, solar-powered cooking has undergone numerous improvements. Solar cooking has been predominantly used as a substitute for reducing oil and gas dependence, increasing environmental sustainability, and reducing global warming threats. This paper talks about the recent development of the box-type solar cooker. The paper discusses the principles and classifications of various parameters that affect the performance, energy, and exergy related to the solar cooking system. In line with the sustainable development goals of the UN agenda 2030 and especially the heed to the accomplishment of SDG 7 and SDG 13, various economic factors, such as the payback period (PP), net present value (NPV), benefit–cost (B–C) ratios, internal rate of return (IRR), levelized cost of heat (LCOH), and levelized cost of cooking a meal (LCCM) have been discussed. The environmental analysis has also been presented to show the overall benefit of solar cooking. The review also focuses on the current development of a box-type solar cooker, its components, and its heat transfer characteristic. Various geometrical modifications, the use of reflectors, and transparent insulating materials that improve cooking have been discussed. The concept of energy storage in the form of Phase change material (Latent heat storage) with the latest studied designs improvements of solar cookers has been obtained to be efficient, which also help in late-evening cooking. It can be said that with better policy implications, the social and economic acceptability of the solar cooker can be achieved.

Objective: The objective of the paper is to analyse segmentation of EU-27 countries based on quarterly growth rates of exports and imports by using time series clustering. Research Design & Methods: We applied a time series clustering algorithm using TS nodes in SAS Enterprise Miner. To analyse the impact of the pandemic, we considered clusters based on export and import growth rates for two time periods, pre-emergence and post-COVID-19 emergence. Findings: We find that grouping based on export and import growth rates vary for EU-27 countries. Also, clustering results change significantly for post-COVID-19 emergence compared to pre-COVID-19 emergence. Cyprus emerged as an exception based on export growth rates, while Malta came out as an outlier based on the segmentation of its import growth rates. Implications / Recommendations: The impact and severity of COVID-19 has varied across EU countries, which have shown a varied impact in their trade patterns characterised by growth rates of exports and imports. The clustering analysis presented in the paper helps to explain similarities and differences in trade patterns of EU members during the COVID-19 pandemic to effectively implement and harmonise EU specific trade policies to member countries. Contribution: The study contributes to the literature on EU trade by providing an approach to analysing EU-27 segments using time series clustering analysis. It also enhances the growing literature on the impact of the pandemic on international trade by separating clustering analysis for the COVID-19 period and investigating the drivers for the segmentation.

Maffucci syndrome is a congenital mesodermal dysplasia. The disease is characterised by the presence of multiple soft tissue haemangiomas or slow flow venous malformations and enchondromas and was first described in 1881. This report aims to discuss the clinical and radiological findings of Maffucci syndrome in a 29-year-old female patient who presented with swelling in the right foot and foot deformity. The subsequent history taking and different imaging modalities helped to reach the diagnosis. On Ultrasonography (USG), phleboliths were visible and on Computed Tomography (CT), few calcific foci were noted in planter aspect of right foot in subcutaneous and intermuscular plane with soft tissue enhancement. Hence this case report showed that Maffucci syndrome can present as deformity of limb, multiple soft tissue swellings or with cranial nerve palsy which may suggest an intracranial lesion and close follow-up of patients is required as there are high chances of malignant transformation. Patient in this case was referred to the Neurosurgery Department and later on lost to follow-up.

Objective: We compared the pre- and post-operative right ventricular (RV) function by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) between trans-right atrial (t-RA) versus t-RA/RV (RA/RV) approach for the repair of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Patients and Methods: Fifty consecutive patients, 1–15 years of age, undergoing intracardiac repair of TOF between September 2015 and June 2016 were randomized into two groups based on the approach for repair as follows: t-RA or t-RA/RV approach. TAPSE was used for the assessment of pre- and post-operative RV function. Results: Age, body surface area, preoperative saturation, cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times, inotropic score, postoperative intensive care unit, and hospital stay were similar in both the groups. However, t-RA/RV group had significant mediastinal drainage (169 ± 163 ml vs. 90.6 ± 58.7 ml, P < 0.05) and pleural effusions (8 vs. 2 patients, P < 0.05), but had better relief of RV outflow tract gradients. The mean follow-up was 23 ± 6.7 (median 26, range 21–29) months. There were no differences in arrhythmias in either group up to the 1st month and at last follow-up. Preoperative TAPSE for t-RA and t-RA/RV was similar (1.49 ± 0.29 vs. 1.66 ± 0.34, P > 0.05) and so was the post-operative TAPSE at discharge (1.52 ± 0.30 vs. 1.43 ± 0.32, P > 0.05), at 1 month (1.6 ± 0.27 vs. 1.43 ± 0.032, P > 0.05) and at last follow-up (1.79 ± 0.15, median 1.8 vs. 1.72 ± 0.17, median 1.7 P > 0.05). Conclusion: Both t-RA and t-RA/RV approaches provide safe palliation for patients with TOF. A limited right ventriculotomy neither leads to deleterious effects on early RV function nor does it increase the incidence of arrhythmias at early follow-up. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to further address these issues.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) play an important role in the communication among organisms, including plants, beneficial or pathogenic microbes, and pests. In vitro, we observed that the growth of seven out of eight Basidiomycete species tested was inhibited by the VOCs of the biocontrol agent Pseudomonas protegens strain CHA0. In the Ascomycota phylum, only some species were sensitive (e.g., Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Botrytis cinerea, etc.) but others were resistant (e.g., Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, Verticillium dahliae, etc.). We further discovered that CHA0 as well as other ten beneficial or phytopathogenic bacterial strains were all able to inhibit Heterobasidion abietinum, which was used in this research as a model species. Moreover, such an inhibition occurred only when bacteria grew on media containing digested proteins like peptone or tryptone (e.g., Luria-Bertani agar or LBA). Also, the inhibition co-occurred with a pH increase of the agar medium where the fungus grew. Therefore, biogenic ammonia originating from protein degradation by bacteria was hypothesized to play a major role in fungus inhibition. Indeed, when tested as a synthetic compound, it was highly toxic to H. abietinum (effective concentration 50% or EC50 = 1.18 M; minimum inhibitory concentration or MIC = 2.14 M). Using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS), eight VOCs were found specifically emitted by CHA0 grown on LBA compared to the bacterium grown on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Among them, two compounds were even more toxic than ammonia against H. abietinum: dimethyl trisulfide had EC50 = 0.02 M and MIC = 0.2 M, and 2-ethylhexanol had EC50 = 0.33 M and MIC = 0.77 M. The fungus growth inhibition was the result of severe cellular and sub-cellular alterations of hyphae occurring as early as 15 min of exposure to VOCs, as evidenced by transmission and scanning electron microscopy observations. Transcriptome reprogramming of H. abietinum induced by CHA0’s VOCs pointed out that detrimental effects occurred on ribosomes and protein synthesis while the cells tried to react by activating defense mechanisms, which required a lot of energy diverted from the growth and development (fitness cost).

RNA silencing is as an adaptive immune response in plants that limits the accumulation or spread of invading viruses. Successful virus infection entails countering the RNA silencing machinery for efficient replication and systemic spread in the host. The viruses encode proteins with the ability to suppress or block the host silencing mechanism, resulting in severe pathogenic symptoms and diseases. Tungro is a viral disease caused by a complex of two viruses and it provides an excellent system to understand the host and virus interactions during infection. It is known that Rice tungro bacilliform virus (RTBV) is the major determinant of the disease while Rice tungro spherical virus (RTSV) accentuates the symptoms. This study brings to focus the important role of RTBV ORF-IV in disease manifestation, by acting as both the victim and silencer of the RNA silencing pathway. The ORF-IV is a weak suppressor of the S-PTGS or stable silencing, but its suppression activity is augmented in the presence of specific RTSV proteins. Among these, RTBV ORF-IV and RTSV CP3 proteins interact with each other. This interaction may lead to the suppression of localized silencing as well as the spread of silencing in the host plants. The findings present a probable mechanistic glimpse of the requirement of the two viruses in enhancing tungro disease.

Abstract Coupled Global Climate Models (CGCMs) of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) are unable to resolve the spatial and temporal characteristics of the South Asian Monsoon satisfactorily. A CGCM with the capability to reliably project the global as well as the regional climatic features would be a valuable tool for scientists and policymakers. Analysis of 28 CMIP5 models highlights varying degree of biases in precipitation and 2 m surface air temperature (T2m) over south Asia, and the Community Earth System Model (CESM) developed at the National Center for Atmospheric Research is found to be one of the best performing models. However, like all other CMIP5 models, CESM also has some inherent model biases. Using CESM, it is found that the precipitation and T2M biases reduce with increase in the model horizontal resolution from 2° to 0.5°. Further, a few deep convective parameters in the Zhang-McFarlane convection scheme are tuned for 2° and 1° model resolutions using both manual and semi-automatic model tuning methods. Comparing results from the two tuning methods we find that the performance of the manually tuned model is better than that of the semi-automated one.

Background: In Indian Universities, much attention is not given to the mental and physical fitness of the students during routine teaching-learning sessions except in the courses related to physical education, medicine, and yoga. Even general health-related lessons are mostly not included in the curricula of most of the courses. This fact becomes important in the context of increasing prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases among the younger population. Yogic training happens to be one of the promising and effective methods of training in developing mental and physical fitness. Objective of the Study: The objective of this study was to find out the effect of Pranayama on physical fitness and mental health in University-level healthy students. Method: A total of 108 adult volunteers of University-level healthy students of both gender, aged 17–28 years were included in the study. The selected individuals were divided into two groups, experimental- and control-with (n = 54) individuals in each group. The training period of Anuloma-viloma and Bhastrika Pranayama for experimental group was 12 weeks. Physical fitness parameters and mental health were assessed at the baseline and after completion of 12 weeks of the training intervention. Mental health was tested with a validated Mental Health Inventory Questionnaire. Control groups did not undergo Pranayama training. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvement in most of the physical fitness parameters after 12 weeks of Pranayama practice; however, the control group did not show significant improvement. The positive effect of Pranayama though was observed on mental health parameters in the experimental group, the difference was not statistically significant when compared with the control group. Conclusion: Anuloma-viloma and Bhastrika Pranayama appear to be effective in improving physical health parameters among healthy University students.

Background: Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is the most common extranodal site for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and constitutes about 10%-15% of all NHL. This was a prospective study to evaluate the epidemiological, clinicopathological characteristics, and treatment outcome of primary GIT diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PGIL). Materials and Methods: Newly diagnosed patients of PGIL with DLBCL histology were eligible. Lugano staging system was used. All patients were treated with prephase treatment (1 mg vincristine and 100 mg prednisolone) followed by CHOP-based chemotherapy (with or without rituximab) as definitive treatment. Results: A total of 21 patients of PGIL were diagnosed. The median age was 46 years (range: 27–69 years) with male:female ratio of 2:1. Dull aching abdominal pain was the most common presenting complaint. Stomach was the most common site involved (52.4%, n = 11) followed by the colon (23.8%, n = 5). The estimated median survival in patients with Stage IV disease was significantly lower as compared to patients with localized disease (Stage I and II) (6.23 months vs. 23.4 months; P = 0.04). Patients, who did not achieve complete response (CR), had 15.5 times higher risk of death, as compared to those who achieved CR (P = 0.01). Conclusions: Stomach was the most common site for PGIL. Localized disease and CR after first-line chemotherapy were associated with better survival. A higher cost of rituximab was the prohibitive factor for cure in these patients.

Phase change materials have been overwhelmingly used for thermal energy storage applications. Among organics, fatty acids are an important constituent of latent heat storage. Most of the saturated fatty acid PCMs so far studied are either unary or binary constituents of pure fatty acids. In the present study, ternary blends of saturated fatty acids i.e., capric, lauric, myristic, stearic, and palmitic acids have been developed with different weight proportions. A series of 28 ternary blends viz. CA-LA-MA, CA-LA-PA, CA-LA-SA, CA-MA-PA, CA-MA-SA, and CA-PA-SA were prepared and analyzed with differential scanning calorimetry, thermal gravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. DSC analysis revealed that the prepared materials lie in the 15–30 °C temperature range. Also, 300 thermal melt/freeze cycles were conducted which showed ±10% variation in terms of the melting peak for most of the PCMs, with the average latent heat of fusion between 130 and 170 kJ/kg. The TGA analysis showed that most of the PCMs are thermally stable up to 100 °C and useful for medium-low storage applications, and FTIR analysis showed that the materials are chemically stable after repeated thermal cycles. Based on cycle test performances, the developed materials were found to be reliable for long-term use in building and photovoltaic applications.

Abdominal tuberculosis in children is a great masquerader. Due to varied clinical presentation, diagnosis is challenging. Although peritoneal and nodal disease is the most common presentation but jejunal involvement is seen in widespread disease. Isolated jejunal stricture is extremely rare. We are presenting a case of 8 year old female child presented with intermittent bilious vomiting, constipation and inability to tolerate solid and semisolid food. Diagnosis was confirmed as isolated tubercular jejunal stricture after investigations and surgery. Keywords: Jejunum, Stricture, Tuberculosis, CECT, Congenital band

Background: Neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) is a rare tumor arising from the diffuse neuroendocrine system. Most of these present in the advanced stage and palliative chemotherapy remains the only option. The prognosis remains poor with the standard chemotherapy regimen of platinum and etoposide (EP) providing modest survival benefit. Methods: The study was done for 3 years at a tertiary cancer center in South India. Patients with a diagnosis of metastatic NEC were analyzed for clinical and pathological characteristics. The treatment outcomes and prognostic factors were evaluated using appropriate statistical test. Results: A total of 114 patients of metastatic NEC satisfied the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Gastrointestinal including hepatobiliary tract (33%) was the most common site of primary disease followed by lung (26%), genitourinary (15%), head and neck (14%), and unknown primary (9%). On analysis of pattern of metastasis, liver (65%) was the most common site followed by bone (54%) and lung (42%). The median overall survival was 11 months with a statistically significant difference between pulmonary and extrapulmonary disease (8 vs. 13 months; P = 0.003). Ki67% value was strongly associated with prognosis (hazard ratio 0.517, 95% confidence interval; 0.318–0.840, P = 0.008) whereas age, sex, and lactate dehydrogenase level did not show any relation with survival. Conclusion: The outcome of advanced NEC with standard chemotherapy remains poor. Larger studies with other therapeutic and novel agents are warranted to improve the treatment outcomes.

Plants harbor diverse microbial communities that colonize both below-ground and above-ground organs. Some bacterial members of these rhizosphere and phyllosphere microbial communities have been shown to contribute to plant defenses against pathogens. In this study, we characterize the pathogen-inhibiting potential of 78 bacterial isolates retrieved from endophytic and epiphytic communities living in the leaves of three grapevine cultivars. We selected two economically relevant pathogens, the fungus Botrytis cinerea causing gray mold and the oomycete Phytophthora infestans, which we used as a surrogate for Plasmopara viticola causing downy mildew. Our results showed that epiphytic isolates were phylogenetically more diverse than endophytic isolates, the latter mostly consisting of Bacillus and Staphylococcus strains, but that mycelial inhibition of both pathogens through bacterial diffusible metabolites was more widespread among endophytes than among epiphytes. Six closely related Bacillus strains induced strong inhibition (>60%) of Botrytis cinerea mycelial growth. Among these, five led to significant perturbation in spore germination, ranging from full inhibition to reduction in germination rate and germ tube length. Different types of spore developmental anomalies were observed for different strains, suggesting multiple active compounds with different modes of action on this pathogen. Compared with B. cinerea, the oomycete P. infestans was inhibited in its mycelial growth by a higher number and more diverse group of isolates, including many Bacillus but also Variovorax, Pantoea, Staphylococcus, Herbaspirillum, or Sphingomonas strains. Beyond mycelial growth, both zoospore and sporangia germination were strongly perturbed upon exposure to cells or cell-free filtrates of selected isolates. Moreover, three strains (all epiphytes) inhibited the pathogen’s growth via the emission of volatile compounds. The comparison of the volatile profiles of two of these active strains with those of two phylogenetically closely related, inactive strains led to the identification of molecules possibly involved in the observed volatile-mediated pathogen growth inhibition, including trimethylpyrazine, dihydrochalcone, and L-dihydroxanthurenic acid. This work demonstrates that grapevine leaves are a rich source of bacterial antagonists with strong inhibition potential against two pathogens of high economical relevance. It further suggests that combining diffusible metabolite-secreting endophytes with volatile-emitting epiphytes might be a promising multi-layer strategy for biological control of above-ground pathogens.

Introduction: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) has become simple, safe, speedy, cost-effective, accurate and more diagnostic after advancement in imaging techniques. Sensitivity of image guided FNAC of intra-abdominal lymph nodes is relatively high. Ancillary techniques on FNAC material may increase the accuracy of diagnosis. Aim: To evaluate adequacy of material, cytologic assessment of samples obtained by image-guided aspiration and side effect/ complication on account of the procedure. Materials and Methods: Image guided FNAC were performed on 60 patients which include retroperitoneal and abdominal nodes. A sterile 3.5/5-MHz micro convex sector probe was used for localisation of the node. FNAC was performed using a 0.7-0.9 mm needle with stylet removed and attached to a 20mL syringe and FNAC handle after the needle was visualised in the lesion. For each case a minimum of 4-5 smears were made and two observers without bias interpreted the smears. Results: A total of 60 patients were aspirated, of which adequate material for cytologic diagnosis was obtained in 58(96.6%) patients with a similar diagnostic accuracy. The 6th and 7th decade accounted for approximately half of the cases. Male to female ratio in our study was 2.16:1 (41:19). Most common cytologic diagnosis was metastasis 22(37%) followed by Non-Hodgkin lymphoma 17(28%) and followed by tubercular etiology seen in 16(27%) cases. All patients were followed by six monthly period for five years to further validate the study. Conclusion: Image-guided FNAC has a pivotal role, and is a cost-effective tool for establishing tissue diagnosis as a primary investigative modality. It is also helpful and accurate in followup of patients with a known malignant disease, thereby avoiding surgical intervention.

Experimentally created forty eight wounds of similar size and shape were randomly divided in to three groups, of 16 wounds in each group. Sunflower seed oil impregnated gauze were subjected to the wounds of goats belonging to group I, while Olive oil (Olea europaea) impregnated gauze were subjected to the wounds of goats of group II and normal saline solution (control) soaked gauze to the wounds of goats of group III. Healing tissues were collected from the junction of wound and intact skin from all the experimental wounds in each of the three groups on 3, 10, 15 and 25 days. Biochemical examinations of healing tissue were done for collagen, elastin, hexosamine and hydroxyproline. The level of collagen, elastin, hexosamine and hydroxyproline were significantly higher in group I followed by group II and then group III. It can be concluded that both sunflower oil and olive oil are effective for acceleration of wound healing and sunflower oil is more effective than olive oil.

Background: In patients undergoing head and neck surgery for various pathologic conditions, implants are one of the best restorative options and are increasing widely used. Therefore, we evaluated the success of dental implants in the irradiated jaws of patients following treatment of oral cancer oral cancer treated patients. Materials and Methods: Data of oral cancer treated patients was collected retrospectively from 2002 to 2008. We took 46 oral cancer treated patients in which implants were placed in irradiated jaws for rehabilitation. Results: It was found that out of 162 dental implants placed, 52 failed. Furthermore, there was no variation in the implant survival rate in between both the jaws. Radiation dose of

A mucocele is a common salivary gland disorder that most commonly affects young adults. A 35-year-old female patient reported to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, with the chief complaint of swelling on the left side of floor of mouth. The aim of this case report is to present the management of mucocele present in floor of the mouth in a young female patient using liquid nitrogen cryosurgery. The present case report has also discussed mechanism of action, current protocol of cryosurgery with emphasis on clinical pros and cons along with the clinical outcomes.