Search

The measurements of radon concentrations in drinking water sources in and around the Main Central Thrust (MCT) region in Garhwal Himalaya, India, were carried out using the scintillation detector-based SMART RnDuo technique for radiation protection purposes. Radon values in the analyzed samples were observed between 1.1 and 183.9 Bq L−1 (AM = 19.7 Bq L−1). Radon values in 94% of the samples were found well below the World Health Organization (WHO) reference limit. The estimated radiation doses for different age groups were found higher than the WHO safe limit of 100 µSv y−1 (from all sources including radon) except for the age groups of 0–12 months infants and 1–3 years children. The results of this study may be useful for future studies on epidemiology, examining hidden faults, uranium exploration etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to study the analytical properties of the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral and fractal dimensions of its graph on ℝ n . We show that the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral preserves some analytical properties such as boundedness, continuity and bounded variation in the Arzelá sense. We also deduce the upper bound of the box dimension and the Hausdorff dimension of the graph of the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral of Hölder continuous functions. Furthermore, we prove that the box dimension and the Hausdorff dimension of the graph of the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral of a function, which is continuous and of bounded variation in Arzelá sense, are n. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of a poly-herbal mixture and butyric acid supplementation, alone and in combination, on uterine cleansing of buffaloes during the transition period. Thirty-six Murrah buffaloes were selected 30 days before parturition and randomly divided into four equal groups with nine animals in each. The control group (T0) animals were fed diet as per farm feeding practice. Treatment groups T1, T2 and T3 were supplemented with poly-herbal mixture alone (T1), poly-herbal mixture + 200 ml butyric acid (T2) and with 200 ml butyric acid alone (T3) respectively. Postpartum involution of the uterus and cervix, fluid in the uterus, and ovarian follicular status were assessed by transrectal ultrasonography on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th days. The blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture into heparinized tubes at fortnightly interval from day 14 to day 42 postpartum; plasma was separated and stored under -200C until analyzed for progesterone estimation. The rate of uterine and cervical involution was significantly (p< 0.05) higher in supplemented groups compared to the control group. The proportion of buffaloes with large ovarian follicles within 28 days postpartum was also significantly (p< 0.05) higher in the treatment group compared to the control group. Plasma progesterone levels on day 35 postpartum in buffaloes under T1 and T2 group increased significantly (p<0.05) over the control group. The poly-herbal mixture facilitated early involution of the cervix and uterus, efficient cleansing of lochia, and improved subsequent fertility. It has potential to be used in dairy animals for improving postpartum reproductive efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Epidemiological transitions in India in the 21st century have led to non-communicable diseases becoming a major public health problem of growing magnitude. Aim: To establish MACF-1 Gene variant rs2296172 as a candidate gene for type 2 diabetes mellitus in Bhargava community. Methods: A community based cross sectional study conducted 68 previously diagnosed type 2 diabetic of Bhargava community and 60 non diabetic from general population receiving in the Diabetic Care and Research Center, Department of Medicine, S.P. Medical College attached to P.B.M. Associated Group of Hospitals, Bikaner. A camp was organized at Bhargava dera, KEM road, Bikaner for Bhargava community for sample collection. Results: In the population group, the frequency of risk allele (G) was found to be considerably higher in cases (0.235) as compared to that of controls (0.10). The variant was observed to be significantly associated with T2D with OR = 2.76 at 95% CI. Conclusion: our study show MACF-1 rs2296172 variant as an ideal type 2 Diabetes Mellites candidate gene for Bhargava population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The position of the canine has a key role in facial harmony, dental aesthetics, functional occlusion, and health of temperomandibular joint. Maxillary canine impaction is the second most common tooth after third molars impaction. Maxillary canines are more prone to impaction due to longer path of eruption. Settings and Design: All the patients were examined in the Dental Chair light and referred to the department of Oral Radiology for Orthopantomogram. Yamamoto's classification was used to classify maxillary canine impaction. Position of mandibular canine from cement-enamel junction was used for mandibular canine impaction. Materials and Methods: The study was performed on 2300 patients who consulted the orthodontic department from January 2018 to July 2022. Orthopantomogram of each patient was examined for canine impaction, retained deciduous teeth, cyst, and other anomalies. The incidence and pattern of canine impaction was assessed. Statistical Analysis: The data was then statistically analyzed using Graph Pad Prism software. The incidence of impacted canine was evaluated. The effect of gender was evaluated using a t-test. Results: A total of 2300 subjects were examined out of which 52 individuals were diagnosed with canine impaction. The incidence of canine impaction among orthodontic patients is 2.26%. The amount of canine impaction in females (60%) is higher than males (40%). The ratio of canine impaction of the maxilla and mandible is 2.5. Conclusion: The incidence of canine impaction was found to be 2.26 percent in the tribal dominant population of Jharkhand. Type II (50%) pattern in the maxilla and Level A (57%) impaction in the mandible was found to be the highest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to estimate the box dimension of the Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative (Weyl–M derivative) for various choices of continuous functions on a compact subset of ℝ. We show that the Weyl–M derivative of order γ of a continuous function satisfying Hölder condition of order μ also satisfies Hölder condition of order μ − γ and the upper box dimension of the Weyl–M derivative increases at most linearly with the order γ. Moreover, the upper box dimension of the Weyl–M derivative of a continuous function satisfying the Lipschitz condition is not more than the sum of the box dimension of the function itself and order γ. Furthermore, we prove that the box dimension of the Weyl–M derivative of a certain continuous function which is of bounded variation is one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical explosive detection through a feasible, straightforward, and efficient technique is essential for human safety. A Schiff base 2,2′-(azinodimethylidyne)-bis-benzoic acid (2) was synthesized, characterized, and cyclized to form 2-(1,3-dihydro-1-oxoisobenzofuran-3-yl)phthalazin-1(2H)-one (1) upon treatment with various transition and lanthanide metal ions, especially with Cd(II). Further, the cyclized product 1 could act as a nanomolar sensitive fluorescent 'turn-off' probe for 2-nitrophenol (o-NP, 86%) and picric acid (PA, 81%), wherein, the selectivity of 1 was higher for PA over o-NP. The fluorescence quenching of 1 in the presence of PA and o-NP may be attributed to the energy-transfer mechanism. The binding constants for o-NP and PA were in the order of 104 M−1, while the Stern–Volmer constants (Ksv) were estimated to be in the order 105. The limits of detection (LoDs) for 1 toward o-NP and PA were determined to be 4.52 ppb and 6.81 ppb, respectively, while the limits of quantification (LoQs) were determined to be 15.06 ppb and 22.69 ppb, respectively in DMF/H2O. Probe 1 showed excellent selectivity toward o-NP and PA over a wide range of analytes, including cations, nitroaromatics, phenols, and aromatic amines. The present findings demonstrated that Cd(II) induced the rapid production of 1, which could serve as an ultrasensitive probe for o-NP and PA and was highly selective for PA with no interference of ions, nitro-explosives, phenols, or aromatic amines. The nitro-explosives o-NP and PA could also be determined in real Ganga river water samples using 1, which strongly suggest its possibility for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS)‐based isotopic imaging technique of ion microscopy was used for observing calcium influx in single renal epithelial LLC‐PK1 cells. The CAMECA IMS‐3f SIMS instrument, used in the study, is capable of producing isotopic images of single cells at 500 nm spatial resolution. Due to the high‐vacuum requirements of the instrument the cells were prepared cryogenically with a freeze‐fracture method and frozen freeze‐dried cells were used for SIMS analysis. The influx of calcium was imaged directly by exposure of cells to 44Ca stable isotope in the extracellular buffer for 10 min. The 44Ca influx was measured at mass 44 and the distribution of endogenous calcium at mass 40 (40Ca) in the same cell. A direct comparison of interphase cells to cells undergoing division revealed that calcium influx is restricted in metaphase and post‐metaphase stages of cell division. This restriction is lifted in late cytokinesis. The net influx of 44Ca in 10 min was approximately half under calcium influx restriction in comparison to interphase cells. Under calcium influx restriction the 44Ca concentration was the same between the mitotic chromosome and the cytoplasm. These observations indicate that the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium uptake is compromised under calcium influx restriction in cells undergoing division. LAY DESCRIPTION: A mass spectrometry‐based isotopic imaging technique of ion microscopy was used to study the influx of calcium in cells undergoing division. The cells growing in culture were exposed to extracellular nutrient medium made from 44Ca stable isotope for 10 min. The 44Ca influx in interphase and dividing cells was imaged directly with ion microscopy. A comparison of interphase to dividing cells revealed that cells in metaphase and post‐metaphase stages restrict 44Ca influx. This restriction continued through cytokinesis and is lifted in late cytokinesis stage when the daughter cells are barely attached. Physiological implications of such restriction are still to be studied and may include protection of dividing cells from harmful calcium waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce a fractal operator on C [ 0 , 1 ] which sends a function f ∈ C (I) to fractal version of f where fractal version of f is a super fractal interpolation function corresponding to a countable data system. Furthermore, we study the continuous dependence of super fractal interpolation functions on the parameters used in the construction. We know that the invariant subspace problem and the existence of a Schauder basis gained lots of attention in the literature. Here, we also show the existence of non-trivial closed invariant subspace of the super fractal operator and the existence of fractal Schauder basis for C (I) . Moreover, we can see the effect of the composition of Riemann-Liouville integral operator and super fractal operator on the fractal dimension of continuous functions. We also mention some new problems for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian medicinal plants are referred to as the "nectar of life" owing to their phytochemicals and bioactive complexes that are beneficial in treating diseases. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global health issue without any proper medication. The indigenous plants of India can be exploited to control the precise signs of SARS-CoV-2. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) has advised routine usage of medicinal plants for COVID-19. Medicinal plants like Zingiber officinalis, Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, Nigella sativa, Withania somnifera, Curcuma longa, Piper nigrum, Allium sativum, Tinospora cordifolia, etc. have immunity-boosting, antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions that can suppress and treat symptoms of COVID-19. In vitro, in vivo as well as in silico validation, these phytochemicals can help us to manage and treat COVID-19 disease. This integration of traditional knowledge in the prophylaxis of corona infection and current skills validating it for the development of precise and powerful therapeutic approaches will more efficiently resolve different clinical aspects of COVID-19. The review focuses on both traditional and emergent methods to prevent and treat COVID-19 with various Indian medicinal plants along with their phytochemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs), also known as carbon dots (CDs), are novel zero-dimensional fluorescent carbon-based nanomaterials. CQDs have attracted enormous attention around the world because of their excellent optical properties as well as water solubility, biocompatibility, low toxicity, eco-friendliness, and simple synthesis routes. CQDs have numerous applications in bioimaging, biosensing, chemical sensing, nanomedicine, solar cells, drug delivery, and light-emitting diodes. In this review paper, the structure of CQDs, their physical and chemical properties, their synthesis approach, and their application as a catalyst in the synthesis of multisubstituted 4H pyran, in azide-alkyne cycloadditions, in the degradation of levofloxacin, in the selective oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes, in the removal of Rhodamine B, as H-bond catalysis in Aldol condensations, in cyclohexane oxidation, in intrinsic peroxidase-mimetic enzyme activity, in the selective oxidation of amines and alcohols, and in the ring opening of epoxides are discussed. Finally, we also discuss the future challenges in this research field. We hope this review paper will open a new channel for the application of CQDs as a catalyst in organic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the work of Mauldin and Williams ['On the Hausdorff dimension of some graphs', Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 298 (2) (1986), 793–803] on convex Lipschitz functions, we prove that fractal interpolation functions belong to the space of convex Lipschitz functions under certain conditions. Using this, we obtain some dimension results for fractal functions. We also give some bounds on the fractal dimension of fractal functions with the help of oscillation spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we provide a rigorous study on the fractal dimension of the graph of the mixed Riemann-Liouville fractional integral for various choices of continuous functions on a rectangular region. We estimate bounds for the box dimension and the Hausdorff dimension of the graph of the mixed Riemann-Liouville fractional integral of the functions which belong to the class of continuous functions and the class of Hölder continuous functions. We also show that the box dimension of the graph of the mixed Riemann-Liouville fractional integral of two-dimensional continuous functions is also two. Furthermore, we give the construction of unbounded variational continuous functions. Later, we prove that the box dimension and the Hausdorff dimension of the graph of the mixed Riemann-Liouville fractional integral of unbounded variational continuous functions are two. Moreover, we illustrate our results by using some examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing demand exists for nutraceuticals, which seem to reside in the grey area between pharmaceuticals and food. Nutraceuticals, up today, do not have a specific definition distinct from those of other food-derived categories, e.g., food supplements, herbal products, functional foods, and fortified foods. They have, however, a pharmacological beneficial effect on health. Many studies have been recently addressed to assess their safety, efficacy, and regulation. The object of writing this review article is that we need to pay more attention to natural and organic foods. The bases of nutraceutical components (food supplements) are known for potent and powerful clinical evidence effects on the treatment of hypertension and type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this article is to study the box dimension of the mixed Katugampola fractional integral of two-dimensional continuous functions on [ 0 , 1 ] × [ 0 , 1 ] . We prove that the box dimension of the mixed Katugampola fractional integral having fractional order (α = (α 1 , α 2) ; α 1 > 0 , α 2 > 0) of two-dimensional continuous functions on [ 0 , 1 ] × [ 0 , 1 ] is still two. Moreover, the results are also established for the mixed Hadamard fractional integral. Our new results are to improve the existing studies. We pose also some open problems for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmonic luminescent solar concentrators (PLSCs) have been shown to enhance the optical performance and power conversion efficiency of LSCs, due to added plasmonic gain in the medium. Despite the promising outlook of a PLSC through plasmonic coupling, device characterization and performance have not been verified in the real outdoor conditions, with varying direct and diffuse solar irradiation. In this work, characterization of a PLSC device of dimensions 4.5 × 4.5 × 0.3 cm3 embedded with Lumogen Red 305 dye and plasmonic gain medium of gold core silver shell nano cuboids was carried out in outdoor conditions of Dublin, Ireland. Optimized PLSC device power output at different solar insolation was compared to a reference photovoltaic (PV) cell and an optimized luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) device. The effect of the solar disc position, solar insolation, PV cell surface temperature, diurnal, and seasonal variation on the performance of the PLSC device is studied. The key observation was that PLSC average power conversion efficiency was 1.4 times more than the PV cell in cloudy and diffuse solar conditions. The PLSC device performed 45% better than a PV cell in December than July, as December has higher diffuse solar irradiation. Even though the PLSC device absorbs only 31% and transmits 69% incident solar irradiation in the concerned visible range of 380–750 nm. The preliminary outdoor characterization on a small-scale PLSC establishes its viability in a diffuse to direct solar radiation ratio throughout the year as well as establishing its benefits for integration in buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper models a peristaltically driven flow when the cross section of the tube changes exponentially. This may resemble the shape of the oesophagus when it suffers from sliding hiatus hernia, that is, when the abdomen protrudes through the hiatus. The fluid transported is considered micro‐polar while the peristaltic waves propagating along wall too dilate exponentially. Bulging, caused by herniation, in tube is examined considering two different cases: (i) tube diverging entirely from the first end to the other, and (ii) tube diverging partly limited to the other end only. Effects of dilating amplitude, the coupling number and the micro‐polar parameter are also investigated. Non‐linear governing equations are linearized by the method of low Reynolds number and long wavelength approximations and computer simulation is used to estimate the numerical results. It is observed that whether the tube diverges entirely or partly, pressure required for carrying the fluid is less, hence facilitating easier swallowing, which causes sliding hiatus hernia to go unnoticed. Exponential divergence in the tube geometry makes swallowing easier than linear divergence. While pressure increases with the coupling number, it declines with the micropolar parameter. Reflux region is further found to shrink once the wave amplitude dilates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new and mathematical method for online signature validation based on machine learning. In this way, the average values of the factors are taken into account to ensure validity. Here, seven different types of features used are x coordinates, y coordinates, time stamp, pen up and down, azimuth, height and pressure. Three new features are extracted from it, i.e., (displacement, velocity and acceleration) using the correlated extraction process to obtain dynamic feature of signature. These features are extracted from the popular dataset SVC2004. The extracted feature is then passed to various classifiers named as Naive Bayes, random forest, J48, MLP, logistic regression and PART. The result of genuine and forge signatures is obtained in terms of precision, true positive rate, false positive rate, F-score, etc. The obtained result is then compared with the existing method with respect to false acceptance rate and false rejection rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculus of the mixed Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative has been investigated in this paper. We prove that the mixed Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative of bivariate fractal interpolation functions (FIFs) is still bivariate FIFs. It is proved that the upper box dimension of the mixed Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative having fractional order γ = (p , q) of a continuous function which satisfies μ -Hölder condition is no more than 3 − μ + (p + q) when 0 < p , q < μ < 1 , p + q < μ , which reveals an important phenomenon about linearly increasing effect of dimension of the mixed Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative. Furthermore, we deduce box dimension of the graph of the mixed Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative of a continuous function which is defined on a rectangular region in ℝ 2 and also, we analyze that the mixed Weyl–Marchaud fractional derivative of a function preserves some basic properties such as continuity, bounded variation and boundedness. The results are new and compliment the existing ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate partial integrals and partial derivatives of bivariate fractal interpolation functions (FIFs). We also prove that the mixed Riemann–Liouville fractional integral and derivative of order γ = (p , q) ; p > 0 , q > 0 , of bivariate FIFs are again bivariate interpolation functions corresponding to some iterated function system (IFS). Furthermore, we discuss the integral transforms and fractional order integral transforms of the bivariate FIFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The research focused on dust removal from solar panels through optimal cleaning. • Totally 42 literature on optimal cleaning schedules in PV panels were collected. • The SVM-DCNN combined with HBBHO predicts the dust particles. The research aims to develop a system that determines the optimal intervals for cleaning solar PV panels to maximize their efficiency and minimize power loss due to dust accumulation. The research utilizes data related to daily solar photovoltaic tariff rates, power generation, and conditions of dust accumulation on PV panels. To monitor the performance of PV panels, the research involves forecasting power generation. If the power generation falls below a predefined threshold, it indicates a need for cleaning. Dust particle loss conditions are analyzed using an optimized Support Vector Machine (SVM) coupled with a Deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model. This model processes PV panel images to identify dusty conditions. The Deep CNN model extracts features from PV panel images, such as color-based statistical features and local gradient patterns. These features are crucial for identifying dusty conditions. The optimal cleaning schedule is determined based on the detection of dust particle loss conditions. Cleaning is initiated when the conditions warrant it. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a deep learning model for both detecting dust particle loss and forecasting power generation. This model is trained using data that includes daily tariff rates and dust particle loss information. The research proposes a new optimization method called "biography-based Helianthus optimization (HBBHO)" specifically designed to suit the characteristics of sunlight. This method is employed to schedule cleaning activities. The proposed approach achieves impressive accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity, with values reaching 96.53% for most metrics, except for specificity, which is at 96.21%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen fluoride (HF) is a highly dangerous and corrosive gas that can cause severe burns and respiratory damage. The density functional theory method (DFT) used to study the interaction between the HF gas and the surface of a carbon nanocone (CNC) doped with gallium atom as a chemical sensor. The results showed that CNC wasn't a good candidate to sense the HF gas and consequently its electrical properties are changed insignificant. To improve the properties of the CNC, several strategies were tried: functionalizing by pyridinol (Pyr) and pyridinol oxide (PyrO), decorated with metals (M = B, Al, and Ga), and doped with element of third group (M = B, Al, and Ga). The obtained data demonstrated that the promising results were obtained by doping the CNC with Ga atom. After full optimization, we achieved one stable configuration between the HF gas and CNC-Ga structure (S15 configuration) with E ads = −19.86 kcal/mol. The electronic properties of the CNC-Ga structure is sensible changed after the HF molecule is adsorbed. According to calculated the energy gap between HOMO and LUMO orbitals of S15 configuration are increased which could be applied a chemical signal. Eventually, one could propose that the CNC-Ga has the ability to act as a Φ-type sensor based on its physical adsorption energy and quick recovery time and doped with gallium atom is a promising strategy. [Display omitted] • Pristine CNC isn't a good candidate to sense the HF gas. • Several strategies containing 1) functionalized 2) decorated and 3) doped strategies for possible sensing of HF. • One stable configuration between the HF gas and the CNC-Ga structure with Eads = −19.86 kcal/mol was formed. • The CNC-Ga can be played as an Φ-type sensor due to physical adsorption energy and low recovery time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel approach for dynamic signature authentication based on the machine learning approach. In the proposed method, average values of features are taken into consideration for the verification. Here, seven different types (x and y coordinates, time stamp, pen ups and downs, azimuth, altitude and pressure) of features are used. The obtained extracted feature is learned into different classifiers. Different classifiers have been taken into consideration like random tree, Naive Bayes, random forest, J48, etc. These features are extracted from well-known SVC2004 dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a fast and eco-friendly one-pot hydrothermal technique is utilized for the synthesis of nitrogen/sulfur-co-doped fluorescent carbon quantum dots (NS-CQDs) from a simple precursor of citric acid (CA) and thiosemicarbazide (TSC). The obtained NS-CQDs exhibited strong blue emission under UV light, with fluorescence quantum yield (QY) of ~37.8%. The Commission internationale de l'eclairage (CIE) coordinates originated at (0.15, 0.07), which confirmed the blue fluorescence of the synthesized NS-CQDs. Interestingly, the prepared NS-CQDs were successfully used as a selective nanoprobe for the monitoring of environmentally hazardous explosive picric acid (PA) in different nitro- and non-nitro-aromatic derivatives of PA. The mechanism of the NS-CQDs was also explored, and was posited to occur via the fluorescence resonance electron transfer (FRET) process and non-fluorescent complex formation. Importantly, this system possesses excellent biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity in HeLa cervical cancer cells; hence, it can potentially be used for PA detection in analytical, environmental, and pathological applications. Furthermore, the practical applicability of the proposed sensing system to pond water demonstrated the feasibility of our system along with good recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS)-based imaging techniques have become effective tools for studies of elements and molecules in biological samples. In the current work, a correlative microscopy approach was applied to cryogenically prepared fractured freeze-dried cells for organelle-level imaging of chemical composition using SIMS. A CAMECA IMS-3f SIMS ion microscope was used for studying the effect of microtubule-perturbing agents, specifically nocodazole and taxol, on intracellular calcium stores. The perturbation of microtubules in renal epithelial LLC-PK1 cells resulted in significant loss of total calcium in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. In another study, the stable isotope 44Ca was used for imaging the influx of calcium in resting and stimulated LLC-PK1 cells. SIMS imaging of two calcium isotopes, 44Ca and 40Ca, in the same cell revealed the distribution of calcium influx in the 44Ca image and endogenous calcium in the 40Ca image. An arginine-vasopressin treatment of cells showed that the Golgi apparatus is sensitive to hormonal stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron (Fe) is one of the key micronutrients essential for plant growth, yield and quality. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and soybean (Glycine max) are important food crops but have relatively low Fe content in grains/seeds. Foliar application of Fe-invigorated bacteriosiderophore might increase Fe content in grain as well as improve overall plant growth. From a preliminary experiment conducted on soybean using 20 bacterial strains, Arthrobacter sp. (low siderophore producing) and Lysinibacillus fusiformis (high siderophore producing) were selected based on amount of siderophore produced and response of plants. This result was validated on field grown soybean and wheat crops by applying bacteriosiderophore with or without Fe on foliage. Siderophore was applied at flowering stage in both crops and observations were recorded on the sixth day after foliar spray. Significantly higher shoot biomass, area of leaves or flag leaf and tissue Fe concentration was recorded by siderophore produced by L. fusiformis with Fe as compared to Arthrobacter sp. In comparison to control (water), application of Fe fortified bacterial siderophore resulted not only in increased grain yield by 45% and 28% in wheat and soybean, respectively but also enhanced Fe concentration in grains by 1.7-fold in soybean to 2.0-fold in wheat. Partitioning of Fe in grain was higher in wheat as compared to soybean after foliar spray. Thus, we reported for the first time that bacteriosiderophore with added Fe as foliar application could be an economical and targeted agronomic approach towards Fe fortification in crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The "CuAAC" or "Click" reaction has been used to create a bidentate ligand, [L1-H(Br)], which has 1-methyl imidazolium salt and is coupled to a pendant triazole molecule via a methylene bridge. • An anion exchange between [L 1 -H(Br)] and NH 4 PF 6 has been used to create the imidazolium salt [L 1 -H(PF 6)] with a non-coordinating anion PF 6. Ag(I)–NHC complex [(L1) 2 Ag] was produced by reacting [L 1 -H(PF 6)] with half an equivalent of Ag 2 O. (PF 6). • When reacting with the proper equivalents of metal precursors to produce a range of organometallic metal-NHC complexes via transmetallation, it is demonstrated that this Ag(I)–NHC complex is a good carbene transfer agent to other transition metals, both linear and non-linear. • The findings of this study offer promising prospects for using a catalyst in organic synthesis in subsequent studies. The transition metal-NHC complexes presented here were all created by us. For instance, A bidentate ligand, [ L 1 -H(Br)] having 1-methyl imidazolium salt, using for N -heterocyclic carbene as precursor, connected to a pendant triazole moiety via methylene bridge has been synthesized via 'CuAAC' or 'Click' reaction. Imidazolium salt, [ L 1 -H(PF 6)] with a non-coordinating anion PF 6 has been prepared via anion exchange of [ L 1 -H(Br)] with NH 4 PF 6. Reaction of [ L 1 -H(PF 6)] with half an equivalent of Ag 2 O yielded the Ag(I)–NHC complex [(L 1) 2 Ag](PF 6). This Ag(I)–NHC complex is shown to be an excellent carbene transfer agent to other transition metals, both linear and non-linear, when reacted with appropriate equivalents of metal precursors to give variety of organometallic metal-NHC complexes via transmetallation. The compound [(L 1)IrCl(Cp*)](PF 6) has been applied for the remediation of a water pollutant rhodamine B dye from wastewater. The results of this study also provide good opportunities for organic synthesis in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Luminescent Solar Concentrator (LSC) is an optical waveguide of transparent host material doped with luminophores. LSC technology works by trapping incident solar radiation, converting the spectrum to the wavelength-band of interest and concentrating the light by total internal reflection (TIR) to the edge of the LSC where photovoltaic (PV) solar cell is attached. During the waveguiding process of solar radiation, a considerable proportion of photons are lost through mechanisms such as re-absorption, attenuation, scattering and escape cone losses which decrease the device optical efficiency (OE). In recent decades, various LSC generations with different configurations have been introduced and investigated to mitigate the inherent optical losses and enhance the device performance. Due to the achieved optical improvements, LSC has recently captured a significant growing interest implying its leading role as a low cost and passive technology for enhancing the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PV systems. In this paper, large and small scale LSCs have been comprehensively reviewed to study the impact of device configuration (such as shape, geometric gain, host material, luminescent species, doping concentration and PV solar cell type) on the LSC loss mechanisms and optical performance. LSC generations are categorised and shortlisted based on their configurations; moreover, their limitations, best performance conditions, best achieved results, and their eligibility for large-scale building integrated PV (BIPV) applications are discussed. • LSCs are comprehensively reviewed. • LSC generations are categorised. • Best achieved results of various generations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Herein, we were synthesized fluorescent carbon quantum dots via facile one-step hydrothermal treatment of mustard seeds (M-CQDs). It showed excellent optical property with fluorescent quantum yield 4.6%. The as-prepared M-CQDs exhibited peroxidase-like mimetic activity and catalyzed the oxidation of chromogenic substrate 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of H 2 O 2 to produce a blue color reaction mixture with the prominent peak at 652 nm. Furthermore, the peroxidase-like catalytic performance of M-CQDs followed the steady-state kinetics behavior and exhibited similar catalytic activity as that of natural enzyme Horseradish peroxidase (HRP). In addition to this, the double reciprocal plot showed a parallel line which suggested the occurrence of Ping-Pong type of mechanism. The H 2 O 2 dependent oxidation of TMB was helpful for the colorimetric detection of H 2 O 2 in the linear range of 0.02–0.20 mM with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.015 mM. Interestingly, the oxidized TMB (ox-TMB) was further reduced to native TMB by the reducing agent ascorbic acid. Hence M-CQDs showed its potential towards the selective and sensitive detection of ascorbic acid in the linear range of 10–70 μM having a correlation coefficient of 0.998 with LOD of 3.26 μM. The practical feasibility of the proposed detection method of AA was also investigated in common fresh fruits. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Green precursor and ecofriendly route were applied for the synthesis of fluorescent carbon quantum dots. • The synthesized M-CQDs showed peroxidase like activity to oxidize the TMB in presence of H 2 O 2 via ping- pong mechanism. • The H 2 O 2 dependent oxidation of TMB by M-CQDs act as sensor for detection of H 2 O 2 with lower limit up to 0.015 mM. • Interestingly, ox-TMB further reduced to native form by ascorbic acid with good selectivity and sensitivity. • The ox-TMB based sensing showed excellent practical feasibility for the detection of AA in edible fruits viz. real sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The study reports an investigation into the effects of temperature and duration of the pyrolysis on the yield and properties of the rice straw biochar and their optimization for application in soil based on the results of seed germination test. As a continuation, the effects of rice straw biochar on the growth of mung beans germinated using extracts of biochar, which were maintained at different pHs was studied. Biochar solvent extraction was done by mixing a predetermined dose of rice straw biochar to solutions initially maintained at five different pH conditions (4, 6, 7, 8, and 10). The biochar extracts were also characterized for their pH, electrical conductivity, and nutrient values and correlated with the germinated seed lengths. Further, this study based on the results of seed germination optimized the rice straw biochar production conditions with such properties to promote maximum seedling growth. Results showed that the yield of biochar decreased from 45.04% to 33.45% as temperature raised from 400 °C to 700 °C. The properties of biochar are primarily affected by the temperature as compared to the heating duration of the pyrolysis. The crystallinity index in the rice straw biochar decreased by 15.25% with the increase in the temperature from 400 °C to 700 °C. Correlation test among seed lengths and biochar extracts properties showed that the seed growth was directly correlated with the increase in the nutrient values at all pH conditions. Based on the germination test, the optimized conditions for the maximum seedling growth observed as for high nutrients, carbon (35–40%) and moderate nitrogen (3–4%), ash (32–35%), yield (35–40%) and cation exchange capacity (40–45 cmol/kg), carbon-nitrogen ratio (22–25:1), low oxygen-carbon ratio (0.7–0.8), ideal pH (8–9), and low volatiles (44–48%). The optimized pyrolytic temperature and duration to produce rice straw biochar with above-listed properties modelled as 500–600 °C and 80–100 min respectively. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The crystallinity in the biochar decreased with the increase in the temperature. • The aromaticity in biochar increased with the pyrolysis temperature. • The surface response curves used as a regression model with pyrolysis parameters. • Seed germination test used to predict effectiveness of biochar various soils. • The pyrolysis conditions were optimized for biochar production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bacteremia due to cholangitis can occur as a complication of biliary instrumentation. Biliary sepsis can result from frequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).Methods: We hypothesized that routine use of antibiotics in patients who require frequent ERCPs leads to cholangitis resistant to empiric antibiotics used to treat biliary sepsis. We retrospectively reviewed patients with frequent biliary instrumentation and blood stream infection due to cholangitis. Conventional empiric antibiotics were defined as broad-spectrum antibacterial agents predominantly used for community-acquired infections and surgical prophylaxis. Broad-spectrum antibacterial agents used for hospital-onset/multidrug-resistant infections were defined as broad-spectrum MDR antibiotics.Results: Seventy-eight patients had bacteremia secondary to cholangitis from biliary obstruction. Over 50% of bacteria were not sensitive to conventional empiric antibiotics for biliary sepsis. Thirty-seven patients did not receive post-procedural antibiotics and forty-one patients did. Of the ones who did, 58% later had a bloodstream infection with bacteria resistant to the antibiotic used for prophylaxis, and 26 patients (63%) required a broad-spectrum MDR antibiotic for treatment. The number of ERCPs was not associated with resistance to prophylactic antibiotics (p 0.7103) or needing broad-spectrum MDR antibiotics for treatment of cholangitis-associated bacteremia (p 0.1868). Routine use of antibiotic prophylaxis after ERCP was associated with trend toward need for broad-spectrum MDR antibiotics for cholangitis-associated bacteremia, Chi-square 3.7, 0 0.0540.Conclusion: Bacterial resistance to conventional empiric antibiotics is an emerging problem. Blood cultures are needed to guide therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generation of electricity by clean development mechanism is the key area for researchers, many countries of the world has already shifted towards green energy. Energy is the key factor for the growth of any country. Per capita energy consumption is the significance of the progress of any nation. Recently the penetration of photovoltaic systems has increased to generate the electricity at grid or local level. Although this technology has improved a lot however the performance of these systems is site dependent, which is affected by various environmental parameters like radiation, temperature and wind. An experiment is conducted in laboratory of GLA University, Mathura, India (hot and dry climate zone of India) to emphasis especially on wind effect. Two PV modules of same electrical and mechanical specifications are taken for experiment. To conduct experiment; different months of a year from various seasons are chosen. It has been observed that increased module temperature reduces performance but the cooling mechanism provided bring down the module temperature due to which a net energy gain is 7.69% in considered time. Performance measure indices i.e. PR is improved by 7.14%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims Although endoscopic cyanoacrylate glue injection (ECGI) is recommended as first-line treatment for bleeding gastric varices (GV) there is still limited experience with this method in the US. Our aim was to analyze our 10-year experience of ECGI for treatment and prophylaxis of gastric variceal bleeding. Methods Records of patients undergoing ECGI of GV at our US tertiary care center between 6/2005 and 5/2015 were reviewed. Assessed outcomes were primary hemostasis, early rebleeding during hospitalization, recurrent bleeding during follow-up, eradication and recurrence of GV. Results Prophylactic ECGI was performed in 16 patients with large GV. Eradication was achieved in 15 (94%). During the median follow-up of 27 (IQR 7–47) months, 4 patients (26.6%) had variceal bleeding; all were treated successfully with ECGI. Fifty-seven patients underwent ECGI for GV bleeding. Primary hemostasis was achieved in all. Early rebleeding occurred in 2 (3.5%) and durable hemostasis could not be achieved. Follow-up beyond initial hospitalization was available in 41 patients. Bleeding recurred in 8 (19.5%) patients during a median follow-up of 12 (IQR, 3–51) months. Eradication of GV was achieved in 92% of patients but recurrent varices were found in 44% during a median follow up period of 33 months. Conclusion ECGI is effective in achieving hemostasis of bleeding GV and their eradication. Recurrent bleeding and recurrence of varices after complete obliteration however are not infrequent and continued surveillance is advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India has a rich diversity of medicinal plants and traditional knowledge on herbal medicine to treat the animals has both curative and preventive roles. Immunity of the animals affects the is production potential. Strengthening of non-specific immunity of the parturient animals can be used as an alternative approach to overcome the incidence of diseases in the peri and postpartum period where in these animals are more prone. One of the promising technologies is the use of immunomodulators to boost the immunity of animals during the transition period. Immunomodulators can be of natural or synthetic origin, which helps in boosting up the immunity for overcoming stress-related ailments, inhibition of reactive oxygen species generation and scavenging of free radicals to ensure the general wellbeing of animals. In the recent years, several different approaches have been examined to investigate the effect of various herb extracts and minerals as immunopotentiator separately. In literature many plants have been listed having immunomodulatory effect and some of them have been proved to have active principles with immunomodulatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antipyretic and antimicrobial properties. The present compilation deals with some of such medicinal plants like Anethum graveolens (Sowa), Elettaria cardamomum (Bari elaichi/Cardamom), Foeniculum vulgare (Saunf), Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain), Zingiber officinale (Sundh) and Trigonella foenun- graceum etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted in 24 Murrah buffaloes to study the effect of supplementation of poly-herbal mixture and butyric acid with the objective to reduce parturition stress and to improve immunity. In this study, control group i.e T0 (n=6) was offered ration as per NRC requirement plus 10% and the rest of three supplemented groups T1, T2 and T3 (n=6 for each group) were offered ration as per control group along with three different supplementations, (T1= poly-herbal supplementation for seven day post partum, T2= poly-herbal supplementation for seven day post partum + 200 ml butyric acid supplementation (30 day prepartum and 30 day postpartum) and T3= 200 ml butyric acid supplementation (30 day prepartum and 30 day postpartum). Total leukocyte count (TLC) values in all groups showed decreasing trend as observed on 1st, 2nd and 5th days of postpartum. On the 1st day of postpartum, blood neutrophil percentage was found significantly lower (p<0.05) in T2 and T3 group as compared to T0 group. On the 5th day of postpartum, blood neutrophil percentage were found significantly lower (p<0.05) in T1, T2 and T3 groups as compared to T0 group. On day one postpartum, the phagocytic activity (PA) and myeloperoxidase activity (MA) was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the T2 and T3 group of buffaloes in comparison to T0 group. On the 5th day of postpartum PA and MA were found to be significantly higher (p<0.05) in the T1, T2 and T3 group of buffaloes in comparison to T0 group. These results indicate that supplementation of poly-herbal, poly-herbal + butyric acid and butyric acid during the transition period reduces the stress and improves immunity in Murrah buffaloes. Out of all the supplemented groups, maximum improvement was observed in the polyherbal+ butyric acid supplemented group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation of poly-herbal mixture and butyric acid on the milk yield, milk quality and somatic cell counts in Murrah buffaloes up to 90 days of lactation. Thirty six Murrah buffaloes were divided into four groups viz.; T0 control (n=9; Body Weight (BW)=666.22±31.30 kg, Most Probable Production Ability (MPPA)=1834 kg, Parity (P)=3.44) without any supplementation, T1 (n=9; BW=661.89±42.13 kg, MPPA=1860 kg, P=3.56) poly-herbal mixture, T2 (n=9; BW=664.22±14.81, MPPA=1907 kg, P=3.33) poly-herbal mixture + butyric acid and T3 (n=9; BW=672.00±17.97, MPPA=1891 kg, P=3.44) butyric acid on the basis of MPPA and P. In T1 group poly-herbal mixture was supplemented for seven days postpartum and in T2 group poly-herbal mixture was supplemented for seven days post-partum along with butyric acid for 30 days pre-partum and 30 days post-partum. In T3 group only butyric acid was supplemented for 30 days during pre-partum and 30 days post-partum periods. The results depicted that milk yield (T1-9.91±1.10, T2-9.72±1.18, T3-9.47±1.38 and T0-8.62±0.97 kg/day), fat corrected milk yield (6%) (T1-18.23±2.03, T2-18.45±2.28, T3-17.79±2.59 and T0-15.59±1.77 kg/day) and average total solid (T1-17.34±0.3, T2-17.80±0.40, T3- 17.43±0.29 and T0-6.74±0.25) were significantly higher (P<0.05) in supplemented (T1, T2 and T3) groups as compared to control group (T0). No significant change in milk protein, lactose and SNF but the values was on higher side in treatment group. Somatic cell count (SCC) was significantly (P<0.05) lower in poly-herbal mixture and butyric acid supplemented groups as compared to control group. From the present study it was concluded that poly-herbal mixture and butyric acid supplementation during transition period has beneficial effect in improving milk production and udder health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water and energy crisis, rising temperature and subsequent changes in climate result in calamitous loss of wheat productivity due to adverse effect on plant growth and development. Plateauing yield trends and declining total factor productivity compel for alternative water and energy-efficient conservation practices supporting sustainable wheat productivity in humid tropics. Present investigation tested the hypothesis stating that the alternate wheat establishment methods and inter-culture practices would economize energy and water requirement with enhanced productivity. Different wheat establishment methods viz., conventional tillage, reduced tillage, zero tillage and raised bed landforms of 40/20 and 60/20 cm and two inter-culture practices, i.e. conoweeding and alternate ridging on spring wheat were evaluated for two years at Pantnagar in Uttarakhand, India. Zero and reduced tillage depicted better economic viability with benefit cost ratio of 2.86 and 2.84, respectively, which was statistically at par with conventional tillage. Alternate ridging and raised bed (60/20 cm) recorded 13.3 and 41.7% saving of irrigation water, respectively. Highest energy use efficiency was observed in raised bed 60/20 cm with 22.4% less energy consumption compared to conventional method. Thus, adoption of conservation practices with improved inter-culture operations holds potential for sustainable, water and energy-efficient and profitable wheat productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: predicting the development of severe disease has remained a major challenge in management of acute pancreatitis. The Bedside Index for Severity in Acute Pancreatitis (BISAP) is easy to calculate from the data available in the first 24 hours. Here, we performed a systematic review to determine the prognostic accuracy of the BISAP for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Methods: major databases of biomedical publications were searched during the first week of October 2015. Two independent reviewers searched records in two phases. Studies that reported prognostic accuracy of the BISAP for SAP from prospective cohorts were included. The pooled area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) was calculated. Results: Twelve studies were included for data-synthesis and methodology quality assessment was performed for 10. All the studies had enrolled consecutive patients, had a broad spectrum of the disease severity, reported explicit interpretation of the predictor, outcome of interest was well defined and had adequate follow-up. Blinded outcome assessment was reported in only one study. The pooled AUC was 0.85 (95% CI 0.80-0.90). There was significant heterogeneity, I2 86.6%. Studies using revised Atlanta classification in defining SAP had a pooled AUC of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.90-0.95), but heterogeneity persisted, I2 67%. Subgroup analysis based on rate of SAP (>20% vs <20%) did not eliminate the heterogeneity. Conclusion: the BISAP has very good predictive performance for SAP across different patient population and etiologies. Studies to evaluate the impact of incorporating the BISAP into clinical practice to improve outcome in acute pancreatitis are needed before adoption could be advocated with confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace metals associated with PM 10 aerosols and their variation during day and nighttime as well as during different seasons have been studied for the year 2012. PCA analysis suggested 5 PCs, which accounted for 86.8% cumulative variance. PC1 accounted for 30% with a significant loading of metals of anthropogenic origin, while PC2 showed 28% variance with the loading of metals of crustal origin. These trace metals showed seasonal distinct day and night time characteristics. The concentrations of Cu, Pb, and Cd were found to be higher during nighttime in all the seasons. Only Fe was observed with significantly higher mean concentrations during daytime of all seasons except monsoon. The highest mean values of Cu, Cd, Zn, and Pb during post-monsoon might be attributed to winds advection over the regions of waste/biomass burning and industrial activities in Punjab and Haryana regions. Furthermore, concentration weighted trajectory analysis suggested that metals of crustal origin were contributed by long-range transport while metals of anthropogenic and industrial activities were contributed by regional/local source regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Plasmodium falciparum M18 Aspartyl Aminopeptidase (PfM18AAP) is only aspartyl aminopeptidase which is found in the genome of P. falciparum and is essential for its survival. The PfM18AAP enzyme performs various functions in the parasite and the erythrocytic host such as hemoglobin digestion, erythrocyte invasion, parasite growth and parasite escape from the host cell. It is a valid target to develop antimalarial drugs. In the present work, we employed 3D QSAR modeling, pharmacophore modeling, and molecular docking to identify novel potent inhibitors that bind with M18AAP of P. falciparum. Results: The PLSR QSAR model showed highest value for correlation coefficient r2 (88 %) and predictive correlation coefficient (pred_r2) =0.6101 for external test set among all QSAR models. The pharmacophore modeling identified DHRR (one hydrogen donor, one hydrophobic group, and two aromatic rings) as an essential feature of PfM18AAP inhibitors. The combined approach of 3D QSAR, pharmacophore, and structure-based molecular docking yielded 10 novel PfM18AAP inhibitors from ChEMBL antimalarial library, 2 novel inhibitors from each derivative of quinine, chloroquine, 8-aminoquinoline and 10 novel inhibitors from WHO antimalarial drugs. Additionally, high throughput virtual screening identified top 10 compounds as antimalarial leads showing G-scores -12.50 to -10.45 (in kcal/mol), compared with control compounds(G-scores -7.80 to -4.70) which are known antimalarial M18AAP inhibitors (AID743024). This result indicates these novel compounds have the best binding affinity for PfM18AAP. Conclusion: The 3D QSAR models of PfM18AAP inhibitors provided useful information about the structural characteristics of inhibitors which are contributors of the inhibitory potency. Interestingly, In this studies, we extrapolate that the derivatives of quinine, chloroquine, and 8-aminoquinoline, for which there is no specific target has been identified till date, might show the antimalarial effect by interacting with PfM18AAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was conducted to investigate the attitude of drug addicts under withdrawal treatment towards oral health so that required interventions can be planned for the good health of those who are in rehabilitation phase of life. Materials and methods: The present study comprised of 30 drug addicts (all males) admitted in the rehabilitation centre in Punjab, India. Data so obtained was subjected to analysis using SPSS version 16. Percentage and mean ± standard deviation was calculated and Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Most of the participants (97%) were involved in more than one type of drug abuse and most of them used more than one type of route of drug substance administration. Regarding brushing frequency, about 17% not brushed their teeth regularly and 83% once a day and regarding the use of mouthwashes, 38% never used mouthwash, 59% used occasionally, 3% reported once a day. Most of the participants 92% never used floss to clean their teeth. Significant p value (<0.05) was found on statistical analysis of periodontal status, carious and fractured teeth in relation to oral hygiene practices among drug addicts. Conclusion: The result of the present study emphasis for more attention in designing and implementing oral health programs for addicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted during rabi season (October to April) of four consecutive years from 2018–19 to 2021–22 at 175 selected farmer’s field in Dhani Gangajal, Kalana Tal, Bas Mamraj, Bhamra, Nethwa, Sahawa and Dingli villages of Churu District, Rajasthan, India. A total of 175 Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLD) on chickpea was conducted. The farming situation was both irrigated and rainfed while, soil was sandy to sandy loam low in nitrogen, medium in phosphorus and medium to high in potash. Gap assessment was done and on the basis of gap assessment, improved recommended technologies were demonstrated. On four-year average basis, higher grain yield was recorded under demonstration field (1714 kg ha-1) as compared to farmers practices (1379 kg ha-1) which was 24.30% higher than farmer’s practices (Local check). The average extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 336 kg ha-1, 849 kg ha-1 and 20.12%, respectively. The higher average total returns was also recorded in demonstration plot which was ₹86721 ha-1 as compared to farmer’s practices (` 86721 ha1 ). There was no much difference in cost of cultivation for demonstration plot (₹ 24980 ha-1) and farmers practices (₹ 22980 ha-1). An additional investment of ₹2000 ha-1 consists with scientific monitoring of demonstration and non–monetary factors resulted in additional return of ₹16,939 ha-1. Due to higher additional return farmers got₹14939 ha-1 as effective gain. On four-year average basis, incremental benefit:cost ratio was recorded 8.45. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spring sweet corn as a short duration cash crop is gaining popularity in northern India owing to increasing demand in urban and peri-urban regions. Under hot dry climate and minimal rainfall, irrigation is the major yield contributing factor for attaining superior quality cobs and higher economic returns. The study aimed at examining the effect of irrigation scheduling (I) (IW/CPE 1.0, 1.2, 1.4), sowing methods (S) (flat and furrow) and moisture conservation practices (M) (no-residue, rice straw mulch 6.0 t ha−1 and rice straw biochar 3.0 t ha−1) on spring sown sweet corn yield, quality, profitability and water use efficiency in the Tarai region (sandy loam soil texture) of Uttarakhand, India. The experiment was conducted in split factorial design (Main I x S, Sub M) with 18 treatment combinations and three replications. Results indicated that the combination IW/CPE 1.4 +furrow+mulch being at par with IW/CPE 1.4 +furrow+biochar were superior in terms of dehusked cob yield which was ~42% higher over IW/CPE 1.0 +flat+control. Application of biochar 6 t ha−1 and straw mulch 3 t ha−1 increased dehusked cob yield of sweet corn by ~6–9% over control (no-residue) during both years. Among irrigation schedules, IW/CPE 1.0 obtained highest irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) followed by IW/CPE 1.2. Mulch and biochar being on par recorded 7–10% higher IWUE over no-residue control. Likewise, furrow sowing increased IWUE by 39–44% over flat method with ~25% higher water savings. Average soil moisture content under mulch and biochar was 25% and 12% higher respectively over no-residue. Maximum net returns was obtained under the combination IW/CPE 1.4 +furrow+mulch (1672 USD ha−1) which was 69% higher over IW/CPE 1.0 +flat+no-residue. Sweet corn quality parameters viz., total soluble solids and non-reducing sugar was significantly higher under IW/CPE 1.0 and 1.2 in comparison to 1.4, as well as under furrow sowing over flat sowing. Therefore, although maximum yield and profitability of sweet corn was obtained under irrigation schedule IW/CPE 1.4, the treatment combination of IW/CPE 1.2 with furrow sowing and mulch/biochar application may be adopted for attaining superior quality parameters and improved water use efficiency of sweet corn. • Irrigation scheduled at IW/CPE 1.4 & 1.2 increased sweet corn yield over IW/CPE 1.0. • IW/CPE 1.2 improved irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) by 7% over IW/CPE 1.4. • Furrow sowing had 4–8% and 39–44% higher cob yield and IWUE resp. than flat sowing. • Mulch 6 t ha−1 & biochar 3 t ha−1 observed 7–10% higher IWUE of sweet corn over control. • Virtual water of sweet corn was lowest with IW/CPE 1.0, furrow and mulch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was carried out to determine the impact of seed priming i.e. non-primed and primed seed with 2.0% KCl for 12 hr and twice foliar nutrition i.e. no spray, 0.5% ZnSO4, 0.5% CaCl2, 0.5% KNO3, and 2.0% urea on yield execution of normal sown (November 28) and late sown (Late sown) wheat. The results revealed that in both years of study, wheat planted on November 28 produced significantly higher grain yield with a comparable difference in number of spikes per square meter, spike length, number of fertile spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, and 1000-grain weight. There was 23.0% and 24.0% decrease in grain yield for the late sowing on Late sown when compared with normal sowing on November 28 in first year and second year, respectively. Primed seeds were not significantly impacted in comparison to the non-primed seed. In contrast with no spray, spraying of various nutrients twice at maximum tillering and 80% flowering recorded significant improvement in yield of wheat crop. Highest yields were recorded with a foliar spray of 2.0% urea followed by 0.5% ZnSO4, 0.5% KNO3, and 0.5% CaCl2. The significant interaction between sowing dates and foliar spraying demonstrates that foliar spray of urea at the rate of 2.0% and ZnSO4 at the rate of 0.5% at maximum tillering and 80% flowering stage were financially more reasonable choices for both the planting dates and can increase grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mitigating methane emissions from ruminants requires strategies that are sustainable and acceptable to both consumers and producers. Direct-fed microbials could meet these requirements. Forty Holstein-Friesian cows were randomly allocated one of two treatments, a control or control plus a direct-fed microbial (MYLO®—a mixture of Lactobacillus species; Terragen Biotech Pty Ltd., Coolum Beach, Queensland, Australia). Adding the direct-fed microbial had no significant effect on feed intake, milk yield, feed conversion efficiency, or methane parameters. While these results are contrary to our expectations, all were numerically in a favorable direction. Given there are reports that diet and dose rate may impact the size of any effect, we recommend a dose–response study be undertaken using a basal diet that is commonly used in pasture-based dairy systems. Using direct-fed microbials to mitigate enteric methane emissions could be sustainable and acceptable to both consumers and producers. Forty lactating, multiparous, Holstein-Friesian cows were randomly allocated one of two treatments: (1) a base of ad libitum vetch (Vicia sativa) hay and 7.0 kg DM/d of a grain mix, or (2) the basal diet plus 10 mL of MYLO® (Terragen Biotech Pty Ltd., Coolum Beach, Queensland, Australia) delivering 4.17 × 108 cfu of Lactobacillus per mL. Neither feed intake (25.4 kg/d vs. 24.8 kg/d) nor milk yield (29.9 vs. 30.3 kg/d) were affected by treatment. Feed conversion efficiency was not affected by treatment when expressed on an energy-corrected milk basis (1.15 vs. 1.18 kg/kg DMI). Neither methane yield (31.6 vs. 31.1 g/kg DMI) nor methane intensity (27.1 vs. 25.2 g/kg energy corrected milk) were affected by treatments. While these results are contrary to our expectations and not significant, all were numerically in a favorable direction. Given there are reports that diet and dose rate may impact the size of any effect, we recommend a dose–response study be undertaken using a basal diet that is commonly used in pasture-based dairy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over 100 extraintestinal manifestations are reported in ulcerative colitis (UC). A commonly reported hematological manifestation is autoimmune hemolytic anemia. On rare occasions, immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) has been reported with UC. The presence of thrombocytopenia can complicate the clinical scenario as the number of bloody bowel movements is an important indicator of disease activity in UC. A proposed theory for this association is antigenic mimicry between a platelet surface antigen and bacterial glycoprotein. We are reporting a case of UC and associated ITP managed successfully with anti-TNF therapy. We also performed a systemic review of case reports and a case series reporting this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]