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Background: India has a population capacity of 1.2 billion people. With a worldwide aging population, the prevention and management of osteoporosis has become a significant healthcare challenge. It is crucial to recognize the factors impacting poor bone health and appreciate the many hurdles to treat the disease to provide a better quality of life and decrease the financial burden on healthcare. Purpose: In this review article, we discuss the epidemiology of osteoporosis and address the definition, incidence, and prevalence, geographical variation in the occurrence of osteoporosis, and the risk factors for osteoporosis. Methods: Search terms using various combinations of the keywords 'osteoporosis,' 'epidemiology,' 'incidence,' 'prevalence,' 'fracture,' 'India,' 'world,' 'screening,' and 'FRAX' was done to review all relevant literature till June 2023. Results & Conclusion: India has a recent estimate of population capacity of 1.2 billion people. Various studies have revealed an osteoporosis prevalence in Indian women ranging from 8% to 62%. Poor dietary calcium intake, low vitamin D, and lifestyle changes contribute to osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rheumatic heart disease accounts for about 234,000-492,000 deaths each year. Echocardiographic detection of significant regurgitation of mitral and aortic valves can form the basis for the diagnosis of rheumatic carditis. Study was proposed to be conducted to study the pattern of rheumatic heart disease in Varun Arjun medical college & Rohailkhand hospital, department of medicine, Banthra, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India with the aid of echocardiographic evaluation. Materials and Methodology: This present observational study was planned to be conducted between February 2016 and February 2019 in the Varun Arjun medical college & Rohailkhand hospital, department of medicine, Banthra, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. This study incorporated all the echocardiograms of RHD patients that are needed to be performed during this period for analysis. Results: Sex distribution of 520 echocardiograms of RHD patients were analysed, which composed of 201 males, and 319 females as given in Table 2. Mitral stenosis (MS) was seen in 362 (69.8%) cases, Mitral Regurgitation (MR) was diagnosed in 358 (68.8%) patients' Aortic stenosis (AS) was seen in 63 (12.2%) cases and Aortic regurgitation (AR) was found in 232 (44.62%) cases. The frequency of isolated and mixed valvular lesions in a total of 520 RHD patients were tabulated in Table 3. Conclusion: The valvular involvement among females had a typically predominant MS, followed by MR, AR, AS, and organic TV disease. Whereas, in males MR leaded the valvular lesions followed by MS, AR, AS, and organic TV disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital posterior dislocation of fibula with pes valgus deformity is a rare disorder in children and has not been reported in English literature. The parents recognize it when the child starts to bears weight as the foot appears normal non-weight bearing but on standing or bearing weight it goes into valgus. As the foot is manually correctable to neutral plaster correction does not suffice and surgery becomes essential. The differential diagnosis of this condition is the well-described congenital diastasis of inferior tibiofibular joint, where the foot is with equinovarus deformity. We are reporting a child of 2 years of age who presented to us walking on the medial border of sole, a valgus deformity on walking and no other congenital anomalies. We operated upon this case of congenital posterior dislocation of fibula with pes valgus deformity and are reporting it for the abnormal patho-anatomy, surgical steps followed and treatment protocol adopted by us. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To cater unceasing supply to the modern AC and DC loads, renewable energy resources integrated hybrid DC/AC microgrid (HMG) are considered as a viable technological solution. In this study, a multiple parallel-connected bidirectional converter (MPBC) topology has been proposed to enhance the solid-state transformer (SST) power handling capability with flexible control of the HMG. To improve the high-frequency AC-link power quality and to control the power transfer through the SST in each dual active bridge a split-step phase shift (SSPS) control technique has been used. A power management control strategy has also been proposed for efficient power transfer between the sources and loads of the HMG. The proposed MPBC-based SST is suitable for interconnecting multiple utility feeders. Multiple redundant utility feeders ensure stiff bus voltages and omit the power supply reliability issues. The operation of the proposed MPBC-SST converter system with corresponding control algorithm is verified through the simulation results in both grid feeding and grid fetching operating modes. Furthermore, experimental results are presented to validate the performance of the proposed MPBC-SST converter along with its proposed controller strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To cater unceasing supply to the modern AC and DC loads, renewable energy resources integrated hybrid DC/AC microgrid (HMG) are considered as a viable technological solution. In this study, a multiple parallel‐connected bidirectional converter (MPBC) topology has been proposed to enhance the solid‐state transformer (SST) power handling capability with flexible control of the HMG. To improve the high‐frequency AC‐link power quality and to control the power transfer through the SST in each dual active bridge a split‐step phase shift (SSPS) control technique has been used. A power management control strategy has also been proposed for efficient power transfer between the sources and loads of the HMG. The proposed MPBC‐based SST is suitable for interconnecting multiple utility feeders. Multiple redundant utility feeders ensure stiff bus voltages and omit the power supply reliability issues. The operation of the proposed MPBC‐SST converter system with corresponding control algorithm is verified through the simulation results in both grid feeding and grid fetching operating modes. Furthermore, experimental results are presented to validate the performance of the proposed MPBC‐SST converter along with its proposed controller strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical, mechanical, thermal, and dielectric behavior of surface modified hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) in epoxy matrix was investigated in this paper. Effective treatment of microsize boron nitride involved silane coupling agent, (γ‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane such that the coating resulted from the treatment amounted to 2% of the weight of silane coupling agent of the treated BN. The present work revealed that the chemical treatment of BN surface could effectively enhance the adhesion between matrix and filler material. The dispersion and wettability of the BN powder in epoxy matrix after surface treatment were improved. These imparted improved physical and excellent mechanical and thermal properties to the developed material. The experimental study on thermal properties of fabricated composites indicated that incorporation of modified particles exhibits improved glass transition temperature. As filler loading increases, coefficient of thermal expansion of composite decreases which further decreases when treated filler were used. Further, appreciable improvement in thermal conductivity is obtained when treated hBN is used in place of untreated one. The dielectric properties are investigated for wide frequency range and filler content and found to be increased with hBN content and decrease with frequency enhancement. Furthermore, mechanical properties of such composites were also largely enhanced when treated fillers were used. With modified properties, the presently developed material is suitable for microelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid state transformer (SST) integrated hybrid dc–ac microgrid (HMG) has wide operating capabilities in presence of dc–ac loads, renewable energy resources, and energy storage. This paper proposes control strategies for localized control of zonal hybrid microgrid, enabled by the SST and centralized energy storage devices (ESD) integrated using dual active bridge (DAB) converter. The control of DAB dc–dc converter is modified for zero circulating power flow (ZCPF) operation in both SST and ESD. Power management and coordination control used in this paper ensures the power supply reliability of the zonal HMG integrated through the SST. Microgrid system, along with its proposed controllers, provides a stabilized low-voltage dc and ac network ports, in both grid feeding and forming modes. The performance of the configured HMG system is evaluated under various power management scenarios using the MATLAB software platform. Further, the SST architecture, with its proposed controller, is tested on FPGA-based hardware platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substantial consideration is being devoted to the innovation, characterization, and execution of low density, corrosion resistant and low cost raw material and manufacturing of polymer based composite materials. Based on that, a series of novel flexible hybrid composites consisting of aluminium oxide (Al2O3) and solid glass microspheres (SGMs) in an epoxy matrix for high performance microelectronic components are designed and fabricated. Their physical, mechanical, thermal, and dielectric properties are studied. The measured thermal conductivity values are compared with calculated values obtained from the already established mathematical model and are found to be in good agreement with experimental findings. Result indicates that compared with raw epoxy, effective thermal conductivity and dielectric constant increases with Al2O3 content and decreases with SGM content. Meanwhile, glass transition temperature increases whereas coefficient of thermal expansion decreases with either of the filler content. Due to outstanding comprehensive properties, epoxy/Al2O3/SGM composites have a promising potential application in wide electronic packaging field. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2573–2581, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes a hybrid DC/AC radial distribution feeder architecture for the future microgrids. The architecture includes multiple distributed energy resource (DER) integrated household premises with AC and DC ports. Voltage unbalance (VU) and voltage drop (VD) in AC or DC distribution feeders are a research area that needs to be revisited in the light of the DERs integration. This study analyses the voltage variations occurring as a result of household DERs integration in the proposed low-voltage hybrid DC/AC distribution feeders. The impact of DERs rating and its location on DC or AC distribution feeder voltage is analysed by varying these parameters stochastically, via Monte Carlo algorithm. Sweep backward-forward load flow analysis technique is implemented to gain knowledge of distribution node voltage profiles for different source and load scenarios. The impact of cross-feeder VU, sag, and swell conditions is also evaluated here. The test case studies are primarily conducted for static conditions which are further extended to dynamic test profiles. This study would help in predicting a failure index of voltage fluctuations in the proposed hybrid DC/AC radial feeders in the presence of the DERs. The results are obtained through the MATLAB and PSCAD/EMTDC-based simulation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes a hybrid DC/AC radial distribution feeder architecture for the future microgrids. The architecture includes multiple distributed energy resource (DER) integrated household premises with AC and DC ports. Voltage unbalance (VU) and voltage drop (VD) in AC or DC distribution feeders are a research area that needs to be revisited in the light of the DERs integration. This study analyses the voltage variations occurring as a result of household DERs integration in the proposed low‐voltage hybrid DC/AC distribution feeders. The impact of DERs rating and its location on DC or AC distribution feeder voltage is analysed by varying these parameters stochastically, via Monte Carlo algorithm. Sweep backward–forward load flow analysis technique is implemented to gain knowledge of distribution node voltage profiles for different source and load scenarios. The impact of cross‐feeder VU, sag, and swell conditions is also evaluated here. The test case studies are primarily conducted for static conditions which are further extended to dynamic test profiles. This study would help in predicting a failure index of voltage fluctuations in the proposed hybrid DC/AC radial feeders in the presence of the DERs. The results are obtained through the MATLAB and PSCAD/EMTDC‐based simulation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy integration to the power grid has seen a tremendous rise in last few years. A novel hybrid AC and DC bus layout (i.e. medium‐voltage DC bus of 380 V and low‐voltage DC bus of 48 or 12 V DC) for the residential consumer premises has been proposed in this study. This would enable the consumer to directly connect DC loads to the system, without the need of an individual power conversion device. This study summarises the strategical operational modes of the proposed hybrid power conditioning system (HPCS) for multiple distributed energy resources (DER) integrated residential premises located within urban/rural area. Modified HPCS converter control strategy has been proposed, such that the system operation is efficient and self‐adaptive in both, grid forming (or, islanded) and feeding (or, grid connected) modes. System is configured by using a single power conditioning unit, capable of performing wide range of operations, such as, multiple DER interface, battery power management, grid power control and accessibility to AC and DC household loads at the desired voltage levels. Performance of the designed system has been tested via simulation and experimental studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports an investigation of the thermal behaviour of the epoxy/LD-slag composites prepared by hand layup method at varied loading of filler from 0 wt. % to 40 wt. %. The main aim of the work is to establish hazardous industrial waste as a filler material for the development of polymer composites. The thermal conductivity of neat epoxy is 0.15 W/m-K and the same improves to 0.292 W/m-K with the addition of 40 wt. % LD-slag. The addition of LD slag appreciably improves the epoxy matrix's thermal stability by increasing its degradation temperature at different levels along with the enhancement in the char residue. The maximum glass transition temperature of 74.74 oC is attained for a filler loading of 20 wt. %, whereas, a negligible reduction is observed at higher filler loading. Further, the material's specific heat capacity also progressed with the inclusion of LD slag and reached 1.115 kJ/kg-oC showing an increment of 57.7 over the neat epoxy resin for a combination of epoxy/40 wt. % LD slag composite. The coefficient of thermal expansion gainfully declines with filler loading and decreases by 14.18 % for 40 wt.% of LD slag. The minimum coefficient of thermal expansion value registered is 59.3 × 10-6/oC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depleting fossil fuel reserves and increasing global weather concerns has diverted mankind to look out for clean and green reserves of energy ever since the beginning of last decade. Wind holds a major role in satisfying our energy needs, however, its use as an alternate power source accounts for various issues such as deregulation of supply, frequency instability, etc. In order to nullify such effects, power engineers need to have an idea of futuristic weather conditions, especially the wind speed trend. Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) tools such as Yearly Auto-Regressive (YAR) models when deployed for medium-term wind speed forecasting have proved their effectiveness. In this paper Artificial Neural Network based Yearly Auto-Regressive (ANNYAR) model have been used to figure out the most influential parameter's affecting wind prediction and corresponding range of yearly data set required for Time Horizon (TH) extending from 6 to 96 h. Data from area in and around ‘VABB airfield Mumbai’ has been incorporated for modelling and analysis purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main focus of the work is on developing a new class of hybrid composite with polyester as the continuous phase and micro-sized hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and short sisal fibre as the discontinuous phases. The effect of loading of discontinuous phases on the different properties of the composites is analysed experimentally. The incorporation of either of the discontinuous phases unwillingly increases the void content and water absorption rate. With hBN content, the density increases, whereas, with sisal fibre content density decreases. The hybrid combination of fillers successfully improves the glass transition temperature (Tg) and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the polymeric resin. The maximum Tg reported is 106.2°C and the minimum CTE reported is 51.7 × 10−6/oC for the polyester reinforced with 40 wt. % hBN and 5 wt. % sisal fibre. The incorporation of hBN upsurges the thermal conductivity but also increases the dielectric properties. The dielectric properties gainfully reduce with the addition of sisal fibre. Dielectric properties also decrease with an increase in the working frequency. The incorporation of sisal fibre slightly reduces the thermal conductivity of the composites. The mechanical properties like tensile strength and flexural strength of the hybrid composite increase when the combination of hybrid fillers is judicially selected, whereas, the compressive strength and hardness of the composite increase with filler/fibre loading with maximum 131.4 MPa and 80.0 Shore D number, respectively. Due to the improved overall properties, the composite material under investigation can find its potential application in various microelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mathematical correlation for evaluating the effective thermal conductivity ( k eff ) of hybrid polymer composites filled with two dissimilar particulate fillers is developed using the law of minimal thermal resistance and equal law of specific equivalent thermal conductivity. The estimations are validated with experimental results. Epoxy and polypropylene are chosen as matrix materials. Two conductive fillers, aluminium nitride (AlN) and aluminium oxide (Al 2 O 3 ) and two insulative fillers, pine wood dust (PWD) and rice husk (RH) are chosen as filler in present study. Sets of thermoset polymer composites (epoxy based) and thermoplastic composites (polypropylene based) are fabricated by hand lay-up technique and compression molding technique respectively. k eff of all the fabricated composites are measured by Unitherm™ Model 2022 tester as per ASTM E-1530. The measured values are than compared with the values obtained from the proposed mathematical model for 0–15 vol% filler concentration. While there is no theoretical model available in the literature so far for estimation of k eff for polymer composites with hybrid fillers, it is encouraging to notice that the measured values are in close approximation with the values predicted by the model proposed in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of the electronic information industry, better properties are required for substrate and packaging materials such as high thermal conductivity, low coefficient of thermal expansion, and low dielectric constant. Polymers are ordinarily being used for this purpose due to their high electrical resistivity and low density, but unfortunately they suffer from a disadvantage like low thermal conductivity. To offset this deficiency, adding inorganic conductive particles to polymer is a versatile method. In view of this, the present work aims at developing a class of particulate filled polymer composites with micro-sized aluminum nitride (AlN) particles having an average particle size of 60–80 µm reinforced in epoxy matrix. A set of composites, with filler content ranging from 0 to 25 vol%, have been prepared by the hand-layup technique. Effects of filler percentage on various properties like effective thermal conductivity (keff), coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), glass transition temperature (Tg), and dielectric constant (εc) are studied. It is found that the incorporation of AlN in resin increases the keffand Tg, whereas CTE of the composite decreases favorably. Though dielectric constant of the matrix increases with filler content yet it remains well within the desirable limit. With modified thermal and dielectric characteristics, these composites can possibly be used for microelectronics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

To develop a new class of composites with adequately high thermal conductivity and suitably controlled dielectric constant for electronic packages and printed circuit board applications, polymer composites are prepared with microsized Al2O3 particle as filler having an average particle size of 80-100 μm. Epoxy and polypropylene (PP) are chosen as matrix materials for this study. Fabrication of epoxy-based composite is done by hand lay-up technique and its counterpart PP-based composite are fabricated by compression molding technique with filler content ranging from 2.5-25 vol%. Effects of filler loading on various thermal properties like effective thermal conductivity ( keff), glass transition temperature ( Tg), coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and electrical property like dielectric constant (εc) of composites are investigated experimentally. In addition, physical properties like density and void fraction of the composites along with there morphological features are also studied. The experimental findings obtained under controlled laboratory conditions are interpreted using appropriate theoretical models. Results show that with addition of 25 vol% of Al2O3, keff of epoxy and PP improve by 482% and 498% respectively, Tg of epoxy increases from 98°C to 116°C and that of PP increases from −14.9°C to 3.4°C. For maximum filler loading of 25 vol% the CTE decreases by 14.8% and 26.4% for epoxy and PP respectively whereas the dielectric constants of the composites get suitably controlled simultaneously. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:102-112, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mathematical correlation for the effective thermal conductivity of particulate-filled polymer composites is developed using the law of minimal thermal resistance and equal law of specific equivalent thermal conductivity. To validate this correlation, two sets of epoxy-based composites with micro-sized aluminum nitride and Al2O3 fillers (0−25 vol%) are prepared by simple hand-lay-up technique. Thermal conductivities of these composites are measured using the Unitherm™ Model 2022 tester. These values are then compared with the values obtained from the proposed model and are found to be in fairly good agreement. Effects of fillers on other thermal properties (dimensional stability, glass transition temperature) and dielectric behavior of epoxy resin are also studied. Perkin-Elmer thermal mechanical analyzer and HIOKI-3532-50 Hi Tester Elsier Analyzer are used for this purpose. It is found that the measured properties of the composites are suitable for certain applications like electronic packaging and printed circuit boards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to examine the influence of treating micro-sized walnut shell particulates (WSP) with an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at the varied concentration on the physical and mechanical properties of a newly developed epoxy composite. Three sets of epoxy/WSP composites are prepared, i.e. Set A is for composites prepared with raw WSP, set B and set C is for composites prepared with treated WSP with 2 and 4 moles NaOH aqueous solution, respectively. For each set, four samples are fabricated for different WSP content (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt. %). It has been observed that the density of the composites reduces as the content WSP increases over the entire range of filler content. Against that, the volume of voids increases with WSP loading. Similarly, the water intake of composites also increases with filler loading. Mechanical properties like compressive strength, hardness, tensile and flexural modulus increase as a linear function of filler content whereas, tensile strength and flexural strength increase up to 10 wt. % of filler and decreases thereafter. Further, it is found that when WSP is modified with a 2-moles NaOH aqueous solution improves all the properties under investigation. Though, WSP treated with a 4-mole NaOH aqueous solution slightly deteriorates the properties of the material due to the excess concentration of NaOH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C-reactive protein (CRP) performs two recognition functions that are relevant to cardiovascular disease. First, in its native pentameric conformation, CRP recognizes molecules and cells with exposed phosphocholine (PCh) groups, such as microbial pathogens and damaged cells. PCh-containing ligand-bound CRP activates the complement system to destroy the ligand. Thus, the PCh-binding function of CRP is defensive if it occurs on foreign pathogens because it results in the killing of the pathogen via complement activation. On the other hand, the PCh-binding function of CRP is detrimental if it occurs on injured host cells because it causes more damage to the tissue via complement activation; this is how CRP worsens acute myocardial infarction and ischemia/reperfusion injury. Second, in its nonnative pentameric conformation, CRP also recognizes atherogenic low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Recent data suggest that the LDL-binding function of CRP is beneficial because it prevents formation of macrophage foam cells, attenuates inflammatory effects of LDL, inhibits LDL oxidation, and reduces proatherogenic effects of macrophages, raising the possibility that nonnative CRPmay show atheroprotective effects in experimental animals. In conclusion, temporarily inhibiting the PCh-binding function of CRP along with facilitating localized presence of nonnative pentameric CRP could be a promising approach to treat atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. There is no need to stop the biosynthesis of CRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the authors discus delivery models of opioid agonist maintenance treatment in South Asia. They are supportive of the use of opioid agonist maintenance treatment and of efforts which the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in South Asia has made to assist most countries in developing models for the delivery of opioid agonist maintenance treatment.

We report a case of repeated self-injurious behavior. Self injury to the operated eye had resulted in complete loss of vision in one eye. This case illustrates multiple challenges posed to the treating teams managing the causes and consequences of such self-injurious behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: C-reactive protein (CRP) is made in liver and its serum concentration increases in inflammation. Measurement of serum CRP is recommended for use as an indicator of inflammation and predictor of atherosclerosis. Cholesterol-lowering drugs statins also lower CRP. To evaluate statin-mediated CRP reduction and to reassess clinical usefulness of CRP, we investigated regulation of CRP gene expression. Here, we show that pravastatin and simvastatin prevent the induction of CRP expression in human hepatoma Hep3B cells exposed to proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β⋅ The nitric oxide (NO) donor, sodium nitroprusside, also prevented the induction of CRP expression while the CRP inducers IL-6 and IL-1β were present with the cells. The effect of NO on CRP expression was at the level of transcription. These findings suggest that the decrease in CRP level in vivo after statin-treatment does not necessarily reflect absence of inflammation, and that NO-releasing drugs have the potential to reduce serum CRP levels. Thus, the measurement of serum CRP levels alone in individuals on statin/NO-therapy is not as useful as was imagined. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: C-reactive protein (CRP) that has been conserved throughout evolution is a host-defense molecule. Its attraction towards phosphocholine-ligands, such as modified low-density lipoprotein, and apoptotic cells leads to the “masking” of these substances that have the capabilities to otherwise engage in deleterious activities. Complement activation by CRP complexes and the modulation by CRP of complement activation by its ligands add up to its beneficial effects. In the presence of CRP, production of membrane-damaging last product of the complement pathway is arrested. CRP is currently serving as an indicator of cardiovascular diseases, but to pinpoint the role of CRP in atherosclerosis, a drug that can lower cholesterol levels, but not the CRP levels, is needed for experimentation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Induction of C-reactive protein (CRP) synthesis in hepatocytes by cytokines occurs at the transcriptional level. In Hep3B cells, the transcription factors C/EBPβ, STAT3, and Rel p50 have been shown to participate in this process. A C/EBP binding site centered at −53 and an overlapping nonconsensus κB site on the promoter are critical for CRP expression. We have previously found that an oligonucleotide containing a κB site diminished binding of C/EBPβ to the C/EBP site, suggesting that unidentified Rel proteins present in Hep3B nuclei facilitate the formation of C/EBPβ-complexes. The current studies were undertaken to determine which of the five Rel proteins, p50/p65/p52/c-Rel/RelB, play such a role. Mutation of the nonconsensus κB site did not abolish binding of C/EBPβ to its binding site, indicating that this site was not necessary for the formation of C/EBPβ-complexes. Depletion of Rel proteins from Hep3B nuclei led to decreased formation of C/EBPβ-complexes on a CRP promoter-derived oligonucleotide that contained only the intact C/EBP binding site but not the nonconsensus κB site. This finding indicates that Rel proteins are involved in the binding of C/EBPβ to its binding site by a κB site-independent mechanism. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) revealed that it was c-Rel that facilitated formation of C/EBPβ-complexes and that c-Rel bound directly to C/EBPβ-complexes formed on the C/EBP site. Cotransfection of c-Rel enhanced the induction of CRP promoter-driven luciferase activity and enhanced endogenous CRP expression in cells transfected with C/EBPβ. We conclude that c-Rel regulates CRP expression without the requirement of binding to a κB site, and binds directly to C/EBPβ to facilitate the binding of C/EBPβ to the CRP promoter. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein in humans and rabbits that has the ability to bind a number of biologically important ligands including phosphocholine (PCh), histones, and polycations. In addition to this recognition function, ligand-complexed or aggregated CRP is capable of activating the classical complement pathway. We have generated two strains of transgenic mice in order to study CRP-binding to PCh and consequent complement activation. Based on crystallographic and mutagenesis studies in human CRP (huCRP), we mutated Phe66 and Glu81 in the rabbit CRP (rbCRP) gene and generated a strain of transgenic mice (F66Y/E81K), which expressed this variant form of rbCRP. We also mutated Tyr175 in rbCRP to generate transgenic mice which expressed a variant form of rbCRP (Y175A). In vitro, F66Y/E81K rbCRP purified from serum had dramatically reduced binding to PCh. Additionally F66Y/E81K rbCRP not only maintained its ability to bind polycations and histones, but also bound more avidly to specific histones and lysine polymers than wild type (wt) rbCRP. Y175A rbCRP was not able to activate complement when bound to pneumococcal C-polysaccharide (PnC), but was, along with F66Y/E81K and wild type rbCRP, able to activate complement when bound to a small lysine polymer or when directly adsorbed to a solid phase. This complement activation presumably occurs through the classical complement pathway as the three rbCRPs, adsorbed to a solid phase, bound C1q. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the PCh-binding and the polycation-binding sites on rbCRP are distinct but possibly overlapping. The conformational changes in the C1q-binding site of CRP to activate complement depend on the nature of the ligand and on the location of the ligand-binding site. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The current study aims to examine the influence of surface‐modified micro‐sized walnut shell particulates (WSP) with an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) on epoxy composites. For that, epoxy/WSP composites are prepared by varying the WSP content up to 20 wt%. In this investigation, the physical properties (surface morphology, density, voids percentage, water uptake), mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, compressive, hardness), and sliding wear behavior of the composites are reported. From the micrographs, it is clear that WSP established good adhesion with the epoxy matrix. Further, it is found that the density, void content, water intake capacity, compressive strength, and hardness increase with WSP loading. Against that, the tensile and flexural strength is somewhat reduced at higher filler loading. Sliding wear tests are performed as per L25 Taguchi's orthogonal array. From the analysis, it is observed that WSP content is the most significant factor and sliding distance is the least significant factor for minimizing the wear rate. For analyzing the sliding wear performance under varied conditions, a prediction model is proposed using an artificial neural network to forecast the sliding wear rate of epoxy/WSP composites over a wide range of experimental domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduces the use of renal Kt/V[sub urea] and PNA[sub n] as criteria for the initiation of chronic dialysis for the treatment of end-stage renal disease. Importance of malnutrition as predictor of morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients; Estimation of dietary protein intake; Decline of nutritional status with declining renal function; Association between earlier initiation dialysis and improved survival.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is synthesized in hepatocytes. The serum concentration of CRP increases dramatically during the acute phase response. In human hepatoma Hep3B cells, maximal CRP expression occurs in cells treated with the combination of IL-6 and IL-1β. IL-6 induces transcription of the CRP gene and IL-1β synergistically enhances the effects of IL-6. We investigated the role of IL-6-activated transcription factor STAT3, also known as STAT3α, in inducing CRP expression since we identified four consensus STAT3-binding sites centered at positions − 72, − 108, − 134 and − 164 on the CRP promoter. It has been shown previously that STAT3 binds to the site at − 108 and induces CRP expression. We found that STAT3 also bound to the other three sites, and several STAT3-containing complexes were formed at each site, suggesting the presence of STAT3 isoforms and additional transcription factors in the complexes. Mutation of the STAT3 sites at − 108, − 134 or − 164 resulted in decreased CRP expression in response to IL-6 and IL-1β treatment, although the synergy between IL-6 and IL-1β was not affected by the mutations. The STAT3 site at − 72 could not be investigated employing mutagenesis. We also found that IL-6 activated two isoforms of STAT3 in Hep3B cells: STAT3α which contains both a DNA-binding domain and a transactivation domain and STAT3β which contains only the DNA-binding domain. Taken together, these findings raise the possibility that IL-6 not only induces CRP expression but also regulates the induction of CRP expression by activating STAT3 isoforms and by utilizing all four STAT3 sites. • There are four STAT3 sites on the CRP proximal promoter. • IL-6 activates two STAT3 isoforms in Hep3B cells. • Multiple STAT3-complexes of varying compositions form at the STAT3 sites. • IL-6 not only activates but also regulates the activation of CRP expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kota stone dust (KSD) and fly ash (FA) are the wastes generated from the construction industry and thermal power plant, respectively. In the present work, a novel hybrid composite is developed to utilize KSD and FA as reinforcing phases in the epoxy matrix. The hand lay‐up method is adopted for the fabrication of 12 sets of samples. Four sets are prepared with single filler KSD and eight samples are prepared with a hybrid combination of KSD and FA. The prepared samples are undergone physical and mechanical tests. To understand the compatibility between filler‐matrix and visualize the dispersion of fillers in epoxy, micrographs are taken using the scanning electron microscope. The density and void contents of the material increases with an increase in filler content. The maximum water absorption measured is 0.96% for the combination of epoxy with 40 wt% KSD and 10 wt% FA. From mechanical testing, maximum tensile strength and flexural strength obtained is 34.4 MPa and 65.4 MPa, respectively, for a combination of epoxy with 20 wt% KSD and 5 wt% FA. Compressive strength and hardness increase with either of the content of the filler and reaches 116.28 MPa and 104 Shore D number, respectively, with 40 wt% KSD and 10 wt% FA. From experimentation, it was found that mechanical properties of the hybrid composites are better as compared to that of single filler composites though physical properties are slightly compromised by hybridization of fillers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this retrospective report, we present two cases of unilateral Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease. These patients were evaluated with clinical, ophthalmological and laboratory examinations. Their response following corticosteroid administration was evaluated. Both patients had the characteristic clinical features of VKH involving only one eye, including disc edema, choroidal striae, multiple sub retinal yellow lesions and exudative retinal detachment. These cases indicate that the clinical and angiographic features were typical of VKH disease despite the unilateral involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Closed posterior dislocation of the ankle without a fracture is a rare injury. We are reporting a case in a young male on his motorbike, being hit at the right ankle from behind. The mechanisms of injury along with MRI findings are being discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, a new class of polymer composite is developed using walnut shell powder (WSP) as particulate filler in the epoxy matrix. Three different sizes of WSP are used for preparing three different sets of composites. The particle size selected is 50-micron, 75-micron, and 100-micron. In each set of composites with different particle size, four compositions i.e., 5 wt. %, 10 wt. %, 15 wt. % and 20 wt. % of the WSP is fabricated. All prepared composites have undergone testing to study the behavior of the material under mechanical loading. The different mechanical tests performed are the tensile test, flexural test, compressive test and hardness test. From the experimentation, the inclusion of WSP appreciably alters the different mechanical properties of epoxy. With the increase in the content of filler, an appreciable increase in the value of hardness and compressive strength is observed. Though, it has been seen that the tensile strength and flexural strength of the material is compromised slightly when the content of WSP increases beyond a certain limit. Further, it is observed that composites fabricated with smaller size particles give improved mechanical properties as compared to their counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Aims: We aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of different intravenous doses of naloxone on reinforcing effect of intravenous buprenorphine (2 mg) in patients stabilised on sublingual buprenorphine.Design and Methods: This is a double-blind, within-subject, randomised, crossover study. Opioid-dependent patients, with history of intravenous drug use, stabilised on buprenorphine maintenance treatment were included after informed consent (n = 14). We administered and assessed the reinforcing effects of six test conditions: buprenorphine and naloxone co-formulation (BNX) in 4:1, 2:1 and 1:1 dose ratio (i.e. buprenorphine 2 mg + naloxone 0.5, 1 and 2 mg, respectively), buprenorphine alone (2 mg), pheniramine maleate (45.5 mg) and saline at 24 hourly intervals.Results: No significant opioid withdrawals were precipitated during any test conditions. Compared to buprenorphine alone, 4:1 BNX had comparable euphoria, drug recognition, subjective opiate sensations and drug liking (P > 0.05); 2:1 BNX condition had significantly different subjective euphoria (P = 0.001), opioid recognition (P = 0.002), subjective opioid sensations at 60 min (P = 0.027) and drug liking (P < 0.001), while 1:1 BNX had significantly different objective euphoria (P = 0.002), opioid recognition (P = 0.030), subjective opioid sensations (P < 0.001) and drug liking (P < 0.001). No significant difference was noted on sedation scores between buprenorphine alone and all three combinations of BNX.Discussion and Conclusions: The 4:1 BNX condition did not impact the reinforcing agonist effects of buprenorphine. None of the intravenous BNX combination ratios precipitated opioid withdrawals. Findings emphasise the need for exploring more abuse deterrent mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giant intracerebral hydatid cysts are an extremely rare condition caused by the infestation of larvae of Taenia echinococcus (TE). Humans are infected through the feco-oral route by the ingestion of food and milk, contaminated by dog feces containing the ova of parasite or direct contact with dogs. We report a case of a seventeen-year-old boy with giant right temporo-parieto-occipital hydatid cysts (HC). Giant intracerebral hydatid cysts being rare and can at times lead to death, so surgical excision with pre-operative consideration and intraoperative rupture prevention is the best management for a better prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, a steel industry waste Linz–Donawitz (LD) sludge was added in different proportions with a polypropylene (PP) matrix and composite specimens were manufactured using the hand layup method. Experiments were performed to study the physical, mechanical, and erosion wear properties of the PP–LD sludge composites. This investigation also includes scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and x‐ray diffraction analysis of filler and composites. The erosion wear tests were carried out by Taguchi's experimental array design, where the effect of five control factors (impingement angle, filler content, erodent size, impact velocity, and erodent temperature) on erosion rate was analyzed. It was observed that filler content is the most influencing factor affecting were rate of the composites. At the maximum filler content of 20 wt%, the compressive strength and hardness increased to 85.71 MPa and 0.643 GPa, respectively. The tensile strength of the composites marginally decreased by 12.97% with the addition of 20 wt% filler. It was further observed that the flexural strength of the neat polymer decreased from 29.23 to 22.98 MPa with the addition of 20 wt% LD sludge. The SEM pictures of the eroded surface exhibited that the material removal is due to micro cracking and crack propagation. Highlights: In this study, an industrial waste (LD sludge) is successfully used as a potential filler material in the PP matrix.Physical and mechanical properties of the PP‐LD sludge composites are analyzed.Effects of different parameters like filler content, impact velocity, impingement angle, erodent size and erodent temperature on the wear behavior are studied.Scanning electron microscopy is carried out so that a micro‐examination of the surfaces can be performed, as well as an assessment of the wear derbies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates a composite prepared with polyester and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) in terms of the properties required in the material for microelectronics applications. The influence of filler loading and the surface treatment of hBN with a silane coupling agent (γ‐aminopropyl triethoxy silane) is studied. It has been observed that the silane‐modified hBN improves the compatibility and adhesion with the matrix as verified by SEM images. The experimental investigation reveals that the addition of hBN in polyester unwillingly rises the density, voids content, and water absorption rate. Though, the increment is limited with surface‐modified hBN. The material's mechanical properties improve with filler loading over a particular range of filler loading. The material's thermal conductivity and glass transition temperature increase with hBN content, whereas the coefficient of thermal expansion reduces. Polyester when filled with 40 wt% of the silane‐hBN, the thermal conductivity improves around six times that of unfilled polyester. The dielectric properties are marginally augmented with filler loading whereas, the increase in frequency results in the reduction of dielectric properties. It can be observed from the overall experimental analysis that the developed material can be used in different microelectronic applications. Highlights: A new class of composite is developed with polyester and raw/modified hBN.Composite with modified hBN shows improved physical/mechanical properties.Thermal properties of polyester improved appreciably with treated hBN.The dielectric properties of composites remain well within the range.The fabricated composites are recommended for microelectronics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of this letter is to expand a discussion, published recently in Molecular Immunology, on the post-secretion gain of function by immunoglobulins. It was reported that some circulating IgG molecules in all healthy individuals acquire novel antigen-binding specificity after exposure to conditions that change protein conformation, such as acidic pH. Another protein, C-reactive protein, also acquires novel ligand-binding specificity post-secretion after a switch from its native pentameric conformation to non-native pentameric conformation. Thus, that the functions of a protein depend upon its alternate structural states, and therefore on the surrounding milieu, is a more general phenomenon for some ancient molecules of the immune system than previously thought. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hydatid cysts or Hydatid disease is caused by Echinococcus granulosus infestation. Dogs, wolves, and other carnivores are the definitive host, and human being the accidental intermediate hosts. This disease commonly involves the liver and lungs and rarely involves other organs of the body. Primary intramedullary hydatid cysts are extremely rare and few cases before us have been reported in the literature. There is no pathognomonic sign or symptom for spinal hydatid cyst, mostly compression related symptoms, e.g. radiculopathy, myelopathy, local pain, and pathologic fractures are found. So preoperative diagnosis of spinal hydatid requires the correlation of all the aspects including clinical features, radiology, and lab reports. Surgical management is the best treatment for spinal hydatid cyst with complete excision without cyst rupture being the primary target along with complete neural elements decompression. Here we report a case of a 26-year old male with paraparesis with MRI finding directing towards D9-D10 intramedullary cystic lesion (cystic astrocytoma) which was completely excised and histopathology report favored intramedullary hydatid cyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opioid dependence is a significant clinical and public health issue in India. Opioid substitution therapy (OST) is the most evidence-based treatment for opioid dependence. Although available in India for about three decades now, Indian research on this treatment modality has not been adequately reviewed so far. We conducted a narrative review of Indian research on OST. We conducted an online search for relevant literature in the peer-reviewed journals as well as the general online search for books and monographs. We present the findings of the review in the form of description of literature according to certain identified themes. Considering that methadone has became available in India, only recently, the Indian research on OST predominantly features buprenorphine as the agent. Effectiveness of OST among Indian opioid-dependent patients has been well established through prospective, experimental designs as well as through naturalistic studies using retrospective, chart-review approach. Naturalistic and observational postmarketing surveillance studies have demonstrated the safety of buprenorphine and methadone when used as OST. There are certain areas in which more research on OST will be beneficial for Indian clinicians as well as policy-makers. However, the quantum of evidence base that exists in India is more than adequate to justify the scale-up of this modality of treatment. A conducive policy environment for scaling-up OST is need of the hour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: In India, opioid substitution therapy (OST) has been scaled-up in the recent years for HIV prevention among injecting drug users. This study aimed to assess the change in knowledge and attitude of the OST staff who underwent a five-day training programme on OST.Methods: Using a “pre-test post-test” design, routine data collected from 267 staff who underwent the OST training was analysed. The staff composition was: doctors (n = 42, 15.7%), nurses (n = 49, 18.4%), counsellors (n = 45, 16.9%) and other programme staff (n = 131, 49.1%). A 20-item, pen and paper questionnaire was administered right before the beginning of and immediately after the completion of the training. The questions were categorised into one of the five domains to assess whether changes in scores are confined to certain domains. Overall scores and scores in different domains were compared using paired-sample t-tests. The score difference in different cadres was compared using univariate general linear model with post-hoc comparisons.Findings: The difference between the total mean pre-test scores (9.24) (out of maximum possible score of 20) and post-test score (13.8) was significant. Comparison between various domains showed significant differences across all cadres. Doctors recorded significantly higher scores compared to other cadres.Conclusion: It is feasible to train different cadres of service providers together on OST in five days. The training was able to improve the participants’ knowledge and their attitude towards injecting drug users. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Although empirical studies have reported on substance use in children in India, multivariable statistical models examining risk factors in children seeking treatment for substance use are largely lacking. The goal of this study was to test a conceptual model predicting age of first use, duration of use of any psychoactive substance, and primary substance of choice from child and family characteristics in a sample of children entering substance use treatment. Methods: This was a single-sample cross-sectional study of 159 children entering a treatment and rehabilitation center in Delhi that provides substance use treatment and teaches children the skills to allow for their re-integration into society. De-identified data were extracted from clinical case records. Summary statistics were used to describe the sample characteristics. Regression analyses were used to examine the proposed conceptual model. Results: Child's age, schooling, and age at first crime were unrelated to age at first use of a psychoactive substance, duration of use of such substances, or choice of primary substance. However, parental and family factors served as risk factors for predicting one or more of these three outcomes. Conclusions: Findings suggest that child psychoactive substance use may have a multidimensional set of possible family and parental origins, and that child factors such as age, education, and age at first crime may play a lesser or insignificant role in a child's psychoactive substance use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary C-reactive protein (CRP), the prototypical human acute phase protein, is produced primarily by hepatocytes. Its expression is modestly induced by interleukin (IL)-6 in Hep3B cells while IL-1, which alone has no effect, synergistically enhances the effects of IL-6. In previous studies of the proximal CRP promoter, we found that signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) and C/EBPβ -mediated IL-6-induced transcription and that Rel p50 acted synergistically with C/EBPβ, in the absence of p65, to enhance CRP transcription. Neither a requirement nor a binding site for the classic nuclear factor (NF)-κB heterodimer p50/p65 were found. The current studies were undertaken to determine whether similar novel transcription factor interactions might regulate the endogenous CRP gene. Transiently overexpressed p50 or p65 induced CRP mRNA accumulation in Hep3B cells. The heterodimer p50/p65 was markedly more effective than p50 or p65 homodimers. Co-overexpression of p50 or p65 with C/EBPβ or STAT3 synergistically enhanced CRP expression. Maximal expression was observed with overexpression of all four transcription factors; comparable effects were observed with IL-1β treatment of cells overexpressing STAT3 + C/EBPβ. Data from the Human Genome Project revealed 13 potential κB sites in the first 4000 bases of the CRP promoter, only one of which, centred at -2652, bound nuclear p50/p65 heterodimer activated by IL-1β. Our findings indicate that classical NF-κB activation can participate in endogenous CRP induction, and that activated NF-κB may synergistically enhance the effects of C/EBPβ and STAT3. They raise the possibility, not as yet established, that NF-κB activation may be responsible for the synergistic effect of IL-1β on IL-6-induced CRP expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies from developed countries document the presence of injecting drug use among females and significantly higher vulnerabilities and risks as compared with male injecting drug users (IDUs). Studies comparing vulnerabilities and drug use patterns between female and male IDUs are not available for developing countries. Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the drug use pattern and related HIV vulnerabilities among female IDUs and compare these findings with those from male IDUs from four states of Northeast India. Method: The study used data collected as part of a nationwide study of drug use pattern and related HIV vulnerabilities among IDUs. Ninety-eight female and 202 male IDUs accessing services from harm reduction sites across the four states of Northeast region of India were chosen through random sampling methodology. Drug use pattern, injecting practices, and knowledge of HIV were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Results: Significantly higher proportion of female IDUs was uneducated, unemployed, reported their occupation as sex workers, and switched to injecting drug use faster as compared with male IDUs. Female IDUs practicing sex work differed significantly from those who did not with respect to frequency of daily injections, choice of drugs injected, and concomitant use of non-injecting drugs. More than half of female IDUs initiated sharing within the first month of injecting. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that female IDUs differ from male IDUs in their drug use pattern, initiation into injection as well as injecting behavior, which would be an important consideration during designing of female-specific interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]