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Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a neglected skin disease that has tremendous epidemiological significance as a reservoir of Leishmania parasites. Relapse, drug resistance, non-compliance to prolonged treatment, poor health-seeking behaviour, along with limited therapeutic options pose a significant impact on the management of PKDL. In this study, we aimed to review the efficacy, safety and tolerability data of combination therapies for PKDL in the published literature. We have also described patients’ compliance with treatment and associated co-infections in PKDL. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar to identify the relevant articles. A total of nine studies were eligible for inclusion in this review. Drug combinations used in India were miltefosine-liposomal amphotericin-B, miltefosine-paromomycin, miltefosine-amphotericin-B, sodium stibogluconate (SSG)-immunotherapy and SSG-rifampicin. However, in Sudan, except one, all studies have used SSG-based combinations viz. SSG-rifampicin, SSG-paromomycin and SSG-immunotherapy. The efficacy and safety of miltefosine in combination with liposomal amphotericin-B as well as conventional amphotericin-B were found to be excellent in a limited number of patients. These combinations are said to have better patient compliance and shorter treatment duration. Another combination of miltefosine and paromomycin was found to be satisfactory with a final cure rate of 83.3%. SSG in combination with paromomycin had a good clinical outcome among severe PKDL patients in Sudan, though pain at the injection site was experienced by all patients. There is a lack of data on combination therapies for PKDL through large-scale randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Therefore, multicentric randomized controlled trials with a sufficiently large sample size are urgently needed to verify the efficacy, safety, and other advantages of combination therapies for PKDL. With the availability of liposomal amphotericin-B, miltefosine and immunotherapy, clinical management of PKDL appears promising.

Background Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of ischemic cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, approximately 20%–40% of cases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients aged 18 years who met the universal definition of AMI but excluded those with missing medical records or coronary angiograms. Results In total, 2624 patients with AMI (aged 18–85 years) were included in the study and divided into two groups based on age: ≤45 (n = 1286) and >45 years (n = 1338). Total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly higher in patients aged ≤45 years (5.6 ± 2.1 and 3.2 ± 2.1 mmol/L, respectively, P < 0.007) than in those aged >45 years (6.3 ± 1.8 and 3.1 ± 2.0 mmol/L, respectively, P < 0.001). Overall, 1745 and 879 patients were unvaccinated and fully vaccinated, respectively; severe and critical COVID-19 infections were more common among unvaccinated patients in both age groups. Conclusions Younger patients with AMI were more likely to be smokers with no hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or previous AMI. In contrast, they were more likely to have hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia, single-vessel disease, Type C lesions, and a history of drug-eluting stent use.

Background: One of the drugs that is most frequently used in dentistry is local anesthetics. They are decisive while performing any dental procedure. The average length of a dental procedure is 47 min, but the local anesthetics used in standard dental procedures last between 1 and 3 h, with the most common inadequacy being the persistence of soft-tissue anesthesia (the numbness of the lips, cheeks, and tongue), which can persist for at least 3–5 h. This extended soft-tissue anesthetic in children can result in self-inflicted wounds like biting of the lips, tongue, or cheek. Aim: The study’s aim was to evaluate dental practitioners’ knowledge, awareness, and usage of phentolamine mesylate, a soft-tissue local anesthetic reversal agent. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and two dentists and graduate students participated in the study by filling out a validated questionnaire. The data obtained were entered into an Excel sheet and statistically analyzed using SPSS software version 22.0. It was observed that 66.50% of the participants had knowledge scores that were lower than the mean, 81.07% had awareness scores that were lower than the mean, and 91.26% had practice scores that were lower than the mean. With a very statistically significant P = 0.0001 (P = 0.05), Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient revealed a positive correlation between knowledge, awareness, and practice. Conclusion: There was a general lack of knowledge about the drug phentolamine mesylate leading to lesser attitude, thereby leading to lesser use of the drug.

Background and Aim: This study explored the correlation between vitamin D status and the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), as well as left ventricular function in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 102 patients diagnosed with ACS admitted to an Indian tertiary care facility from January 2021 to December 2021. Upon admission, the researchers collected baseline data of the patients and measured serum vitamin D levels. CAD severity was evaluated using Gensini and SYNTAX scores, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was measured using echocardiography. Results: The study cohort had a median age of 56.5 years, with males comprising 62.7% of the total patient population. Anterior wall myocardial infarction was the most common presentation (59.8%), and 32.4% of patients had double vessel disease (DVD). The median vitamin D level was 18.3 ng/mL (interquartile range 12.7-26.8). Patients with vitamin D deficiency (≤20 ng/mL) exhibited significantly higher Gensini (46.5-94) and SYNTAX (7.5-38) scores than those with optimal levels (>30 ng/mL) (P < 0.001). A notable inverse correlation was found between vitamin D levels and both Gensini (r=-0.572, P < 0.001) and SYNTAX (r=-0.787, P < 0.001) scores. Reduced vitamin D levels were linked to decreased LVEF (P = 0.018) and a higher incidence of multivessel disease, particularly DVD (P = 0.009). Conclusion: This study revealed a significant negative correlation between low vitamin D status, CAD severity, and left ventricular dysfunction in patients with ACS. These results suggest that low vitamin D status indicates vitamin D deficiency and plays a crucial role in the occurrence and progression of coronary atherosclerosis.

NAD can be inserted co-transcriptionally via non-canonical initiation to form NAD-RNA. However, that mechanism is unlikely for CoA-linked RNAs due to low intracellular concentration of the required initiator nucleotide, 3’-dephospho-CoA (dpCoA). We report here that phosphopantetheine adenylyltransferase (PPAT), an enzyme of CoA biosynthetic pathway, accepts RNA transcripts as its acceptor substrate and transfers 4’-phosphopantetheine to yield CoA-RNA post-transcriptionally. Synthetic natural (RNAI) and small artificial RNAs were used to identify the features of RNA that are needed for it to serve as PPAT substrate. RNAs with 4–10 unpaired nucleotides at the 5’ terminus served as PPAT substrates, but RNAs having

The solution cast method made free-standing tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP): Sodium Nitrate (NaNO3) based solid polymer electrolyte films with various weight percentages. The conductance and dielectric properties of the polymer films were evaluated using AC impedance spectroscopy. This polymer electrolyte's conductance varied with temperature. By raising the temperature for different concentrations, the conductivity was increased. The maximum conductivity was obtained for 70:30 films at 373 K. According to dielectric studies, dielectric constants and dielectric loss were higher at low frequencies and lower at higher frequencies. At 303 K, the dielectric constant (ε1) was 899.1, and the dielectric loss (ε11) was 1393.8 for 70:30 (TSP: NaNO3) composition. The minimal tangent loss was 1.54x10-4 for 30% film.

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused global disruption, putting health experts and healthcare systems at risk. However, the ultimate goal of medical systems to offer precise medical care in a holistic manner for the benefit of patients cannot be compromised. With the massive advancements in digital technology, it is now possible for healthcare systems and medical practitioners to handle and utilise enormous amounts of patient data to provide appropriate medical assistance with minimal error. Integrated with Electronic Health Records (EHR), Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS) are digital programs that analyse patient data and assist medical professionals in making decisions and recommendations, thereby enhancing patient care. CDSS have played a critical role in maximising care during the pandemic by helping clinicians offer evidence-based medical care using patient data, paving the way for a more accurate and personalised healthcare delivery. However, their extended usability to manage post-COVID-19 conditions remains unexplored. Aim: This scoping review seeks to outline the use of these CDSS in the management of COVID-19 and their potential usability in risk assessment, severity prediction, and treatment goals for patients experiencing long COVID-19 symptoms. Materials and Methods: A thorough literature search was conducted on Google Scholar and PubMed using key search terms to identify relevant articles that support the objective of this study. A total of 3,010 records were available, of which 13 articles were chosen for inclusion in this review after extensive screening in accordance with the eligibility standards set up. The supporting data were meticulously extracted and charted to provide a clear outline of the utility of CDSS. This scoping review also features a conceptual framework for the extended usability of CDSS in long COVID-19 management. Results: After the methodological search and selection process, data from 13 articles were analysed. Most of the included studies were conducted in the United States. The majority of the CDSS were designed to assess the severity of COVID-19. These CDSS predominantly analysed blood investigations, COVID-19 symptoms, and radiological findings of patients to make appropriate clinical decisions for managing the disease. There was a lack of scientific literature supporting the use of CDSS in long COVID-19 management. Conclusion: With healthcare systems dealing with massive amounts of patient data, especially during the pandemic and postpandemic crisis, appropriate methods to manage and handle this information are critical to delivering patient-centered medical care. CDSS have been widely utilised in this regard to enhance the health outcomes of patients by guiding health professionals to make the right treatment choices in the most evidence-based manner using patients’ health data. Thus, given the future of healthcare systems with Artificial Intelligence (AI), a greater emphasis on expanding the usability of these CDSS beyond the scope of COVID-19 is essential.

Abstract Starch biopolymer films were prepared using the solvent casting method involving acetic acid hydrolysis and glycerol plasticization. This process facilitated a more uniform distribution of plasticizers within the starch matrix, enhancing the films' flexibility. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of ester linkages and structural changes in the biopolymer films, attributed to glycerol integration. The optimal formulation comprised 6% starch, 6.8% acetic acid, and 6.8% glycerol. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a reduction in crystallinity of the starch during film formation, enhancing flexibility. Second harmonic generation (SHG) and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy indicated that potato starch films had higher crystallinity compared to corn starch films. Thermal analysis via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that potato starch films exhibited lower gelatinization temperatures and higher thermal stability compared to corn starch films. Functional characterization demonstrated that higher starch content decreased water solubility and water vapor transmission rate, while increasing starch content improved the film's structural integrity. The films were hydrophilic, with static water contact angles indicating moderate wettability. Degradation studies showed that the films were stable in neutral and basic conditions but degraded under acidic conditions over time. The results suggest that potato starch films, with optimized glycerol and acetic acid content, offer improved flexibility, thermal stability, and structural integrity compared to corn starch films. Their performance in various conditions highlights their potential for specific applications, particularly where moisture and environmental stability are critical.

Abstract The quantum conductance and its classical wave analogue, the transmittance, are given by the sum of the eigenvalues of the transmission matrix. However, neither measurements nor theoretical analysis of the transmission eigenchannels have been carried out to explain the dips in conductance found in simulations as new channels are introduced. Here, we measure the microwave transmission matrices of random waveguides and find the spectra of all transmission eigenvalues, even at dips in the lowest transmission eigenchannel that are orders of magnitude below the noise in the transmission matrix. Transmission vanishes both at topological transmission zeros, where the energy density at the sample output vanishes, and at crossovers to new channels, where the longitudinal velocity vanishes. Zeros of transmission pull down all the transmission eigenvalues and thereby produce dips in the transmittance. These dips and the ability to probe the characteristics of even the lowest transmission eigenchannel are due to correlation among the eigenvalues. The precise tracking of dips in the conductance by peaks in the density of states points to a further correlation between zeros and poles of the transmission matrix. The conductance approaches Ohm’s law as the sample width increases in accord with the correspondence principle.

Abstract Background The Foot Function Index (FFI) is a reliable and widely used standardized questionnaire that measures the impact of foot pathology on function. With 571 million Hindi-speaking people living globally and an increasing incidence of foot-related pathologies, it is imperative to cross-culturally translate and adapt a Hindi version of the FFI (FFI-Hi). We aimed to translate, cross-cultural adapt, and psychometrically test the FFI-Hi for use in Hindi-speaking individuals with foot conditions. Methods The translation of FFI-Hi was performed according to guidelines given by MAPI Research Trust. A total of 223 Hindi-speaking participants afflicted with foot conditions completed the FFI-Hi alongside the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. The study duration spanned between October 2023 and January 2024. The initial phase was the translation and adaptation of FFI to cultural context. Followed by testing of psychometric properties involving of 133 participants for the test-retest reliability of FFI-Hi after a 7-day interval. Results The mean age of the participants was 47.10 (± 8.1) years. The majority of the participants were male (n = 148, 66.4%) and the most common foot condition was plantar fasciopathy (n = 91, 40.8%). The mean score of FF-Hi was 33.7 ± 11.7. The internal consistency of FFI-Hi was good with the Cronbach’s alpha (α) value of 0.891 and excellent reproducibility with the intra-class correlation of 0.90. The 95% minimal detectable change (MCD) and the standard error of measurement of the FFI-Hi was 22.02 and 7.94 respectively. Convergent validity between FFI-Hi subscales and SF-36 domains was moderate. Factor analysis corroborated the multidimensional nature of the FFI-Hi. Conclusion The FFI-Hindi version was successfully cross-culturally adapted, translated and demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties to be used in clinical practice and research. Further, the context-specific Hindi language version of FFI will enhance the utility of FFI in foot function evaluation and remove language barrier in patients reporting disability and activity limitation related to foot conditions. Registration Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2023/07/055734).

Background: There is a lack of literature on the role of splenectomy in hemolytic anemias due to glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI) deficiency. GPI deficiency is a rare red blood cell (RBC) enzymopathy of the glycolytic pathway. Most present with severe disease requiring frequent transfusions. In this study, we report the effect of splenectomy in the world's largest cohort of GPI deficiency patients. The study aimed to describe the clinical, mutational, and laboratory parameters of patients with GPI deficiency. A comparison of the transfusion requirement pre- and post-splenectomy is also included. Material and methods: The ambispective study was performed from 2017 to 2023. Patients with congenital non-spherocytic hemolytic anemia (CNSHA) were screened for GPI deficiency. Detailed history, including demographic, clinical data, and transfusion details, were noted. Hematological parameters and RBC enzyme activity were estimated using spectrophotometry. The genetic study was done using restriction fragment length polymorphism, and confirmation was obtained through Sanger's sequencing. Patients were followed up after splenectomy. Results: Eighteen patients were diagnosed with GPI deficiency. About 3/4th (14/18; 77.7 %) had significant hepatosplenomegaly. Median serum ferritin levels were 890 ng/ml. Seven patients were on oral iron chelation. The nutritional status assessed as per the Indian Academy of Pediatrics growth charts revealed significant growth retardation. All the patients had severe anemia (mean Hb: 6.4 g/dl) and macrocytosis (mean MCV: 129.2 fl). Laboratory features of hemolysis were evident with reticulocytosis, raised serum lactate dehydrogenase, and indirect bilirubin. The mean GPI enzyme activity was 28.75 IU/g Hb.Ten (55.5 %) patients underwent splenectomy at a median age of 7 years. Five remain transfusion-free post-splenectomy at a median follow-up of 54 months. Other 5 had a significant reduction in transfusion requirement post-splenectomy (p A(p.Arg347His) homozygous mutation. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the benefit of splenectomy in patients with GPI deficiency.

Circulating plasma miRNAs have emerged as potential early predictors of glucometabolic disorders. However, their biomarker potential remains unvalidated in populations with diverse genetic backgrounds, races, and ethnicities. This study aims to validate the biomarker potential of plasma miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 for early detection of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Nepali populations that represent distinct genetic backgrounds, races, and ethnicities. A total of 46 adults, categorized into healthy controls (n = 25), prediabetes (n = 9), and T2DM (n = 12) groups, were enrolled. Baseline sociodemographic, anthropometric, and clinical characteristics were collected. Fold change in plasma expression of all four miRNAs was quantified using RT-qPCR against the RNU6B reference gene. Their biomarker potential was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Multivariate discriminant function and hierarchical cluster analyses were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the miRNA panel in reclassifying study participants who were initially categorized according to their glucose tolerance status. Plasma expression of all four miRNAs was significantly upregulated in T2DM patients compared to normoglycemic controls. Furthermore, the expression of only miR-29a and miR-375 was upregulated in T2DM patients than in prediabetic individuals. Notably, only miR-192 expression was significantly upregulated in prediabetic individuals than in the normoglycemic controls. The miRNA expression profiles had the potential of reclassifying the participants into three original groups with an accuracy of 69.6 %. ROC curve analysis identified miR-192 as the predictor for both prediabetes and T2DM, while miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 were predictive only for T2DM. The specific set of miRNA combinations significantly improved their predictive accuracy. This study validates the early predictive biomarker potential of plasma miR-9, miR-29a, miR-192, and miR-375 also in the Nepali population and paves the way for future translational studies to validate their utility in clinical laboratories.

Background: Binge-watching is the habit of watching television or series for extended periods, often involving consecutive viewing of multiple episodes from the same series. This phenomenon is prevalent among adolescents and young adults, often likened to addiction due to its pervasive nature. It is intertwined with detrimental effects on physical health, mental well-being, social engagement, and academic performance. Neither the International Classification of Diseases, eleventh revision nor the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition have acknowledged binge-watching as a disorder. Aim: The aim of the study was to study the association of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality with binge-watching behavior in college students. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study conducted on students belonging to medical, dental, engineering, and arts. Sociodemographic details were taken. Binge-watching Engagement and Symptoms Questionnaire, Beck’s Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were applied. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. The Chi-square test and analysis of variance were used. Results: In our study, which included 400 students from various academic specialities, 364 (91%) displayed binge-watching behavior. A significant association was found between binge-watching and measures of anxiety (BAI, P = 0.02), depression (BDI, P = 0.01), and sleep quality (PSQI, P = 0.03). Conclusions: A large proportion of students exhibited binge-watching behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of addressing binge-watching behaviors in promoting overall well-being among students. There is a need to monitor this behavior due to its deleterious effects.

Abstract Objectives Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are at increased risk of opportunistic fungal infections. This study aims to identify fungal pathogens among COVID positive and negative patients, assess their antifungal susceptibility and evaluate biofilm forming ability of Candida spp. A cross-sectional study was conducted among sputum samples from 135 COVID positive and 101 COVID negative cases. Fungal pathogens were identified by conventional culture methods. Antifungal susceptibility test of Candida isolates was done by disc diffusion method and biofilm production by microtiter plate method. Results The prevalence of fungal pathogens among COVID-positive and negative cases was 6.70% and 22.77% respectively. In COVID positive cases, Candida albicans (33.33%) was predominantly followed by Aspergillus flavus 2(22.22%) and Candida tropicalis, Mucor spp. and Aspergillus fumigatus. In COVID negative cases, Candida albicans (69.60%) prevailed followed by Trichosporon spp., Candida parapsilosis, Mucor and Alternaria. Age and gender were not associated with fungal infection. Most Candida spp. were susceptible to miconazole but resistant to ketoconazole. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first report from Nepal on critical and high priority fungal pathogens categorized by WHO. With fungal infections on the rise, enhanced clinical vigilanceand antifungal susceptibility testing are warranted.

Abstract Recent successes in developing small molecule degraders that act through the ubiquitin system have spurred efforts to extend this technology to other mechanisms, including the autophagosomal-lysosomal pathway. Therefore, reports of autophagosome tethering compounds (ATTECs) have received considerable attention from the drug development community. ATTECs are based on the recruitment of targets to LC3/GABARAP, a family of ubiquitin-like proteins that presumably bind to the autophagosome membrane and tether cargo-loaded autophagy receptors into the autophagosome. In this work, we rigorously tested the target engagement of the reported ATTECs to validate the existing LC3/GABARAP ligands. Surprisingly, we were unable to detect interaction with their designated target LC3 using a diversity of biophysical methods. Intrigued by the idea of developing ATTECs, we evaluated the ligandability of LC3/GABARAP by in silico docking and large-scale crystallographic fragment screening. Data based on approximately 1000 crystal structures revealed that most fragments bound to the HP2 but not to the HP1 pocket within the LIR docking site, suggesting a favorable ligandability of HP2. Through this study, we identified diverse validated LC3/GABARAP ligands and fragments as starting points for chemical probe and ATTEC development.

Abstract We investigate Color Flavor Locked (CFL) Strange Stars using the most basic de Rham–Gabadadze–Tolley massive gravity model, which explains the massive graviton in the absence of a ghost propagating mode. In the current study, the compact star model has been achieved by solving the field equations for a static, uncharged sphere (Li et al., in Phys Dark Universe 42: 101308, 2023). Here, we provide some analytical and numerical findings and examine the effects of the massive gravity and anisotropy characteristics on the structure of this stellar object. The modified Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff equation is obtained by taking into account the hydrostatic equilibrium. In order to verify stability of the stellar object, we have taken into account the redshift function and adibatic index. Furthermore, it is observed that the model parameters have a substantial impact on the mass, radius, and compactness of the star object. Finally, our findings provide a possible structure of hypothetical super massive CFL strange stars, which may be placed in the lower “mass-gap” region $$2~M_{\odot }-5~M_{\odot }$$ 2 M ⊙ - 5 M ⊙ and remains stable without collapsing into a black hole corresponding to our considered model parameters.

Abstract Background South Africa is facing a convergence of communicable diseases (CDs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). There are limited data about how tobacco use contributes to the burden of these conditions, especially in rural populations. Methods We analyzed the associations between current tobacco smoking and four important CDs and NCDs in Vukuzazi, a cross-sectional study of individuals aged 15 years and older conducted between 2018–2020 in a demographic surveillance area in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data on HIV, active tuberculosis (TB), hypertension and diabetes mellitus were collected via direct measurement from participants. Results Of 18,024 participants (68% female, median age 37 years [interquartile range 23–56 years]), 1,301 (7.2%) reported current smoking. Prevalence of HIV infection was similarly high among people who currently smoked (34.6%) and people who had never smoked (33.9%). However, among people living with HIV (PLWH), there was a higher prevalence of detectable viremia in people reporting current smoking compared to people who reported never smoking (28.8% vs. 16.6%; p-value

Background: Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a biocompatible material widely used in biomedical applications. Recent studies have explored various marine sources for HAP synthesis, demonstrating its potential for diverse applications. Objective: This study aims to compare the characteristics of hydroxyapatite synthesized from sea shells and fish bones, specifically from the shells of Scylla olivacea (orange mud crab) and bones of Eleutheronema tetradactylum (fourfinger threadfin). Materials & methods: HAP was synthesized from Scylla olivacea shells and Eleutheronema tetradactylum bones. The synthesized HAP underwent comprehensive characterization, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for structural analysis, hemocompatibility testing, antibacterial assays, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Results: SEM revealed a complex structure of HAP with a clustered arrangement and biofilm-like features. HAP derived from crab shells exhibited superior structural properties compared to that from fish bones. Both sources demonstrated good hemocompatibility, essential for biomedical applications. The antibacterial assays indicated effective antibacterial properties for both HAP sources, with crab shell-derived HAP showing slightly better performance. EDS analysis confirmed the presence of key elements necessary for HAP, with a consistent composition in both sources. Conclusion: Our study concludes that hydroxyapatite derived from Scylla olivacea shells exhibits superior properties compared to that from Eleutheronema tetradactylum bones. This research establishes a precedent for future investigations into other marine species, thereby broadening the scope and potential of hydroxyapatite synthesis from natural sources.

Abstract The development of eco-friendly materials is a challenging one in the research field. Natural fibers are more accessible, biodegradable, inexpensive, and less dense. They offer fewer health risks and are eco-friendly compared to synthetic fibers. Natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites are new, eco-friendly materials with excellent mechanical and practical applications. Adding biofillers to composites improves strength and will replace synthetic materials. Utilizing cellulose as a filler for a natural starch matrix is an effective way to reduce the environmental impact of non-biodegradable materials. This study covers the influence of natural Borassus flabellifer flower microcrystalline cellulose (BFF MCC) fillers on banana fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic peaks at 2357, 1730, and 1245 cm-1 were absent. This indicates that the amorphous proportion of banana fiber mat/BFF MCC-reinforced hybrid composites decreased. At 1% BFF MCC, thermogravimetric examination revealed an increase in the peak temperature of maximum degradation (389.6 °C). The hybrid banana composite’s tensile strength (31.36 ± 4.39 to 39.83 ± 3.07 MPa) and flexural strength (71.05 ± 2.66 to 82.4 ± 1.66 MPa) were also improved after adding 3% BFF MCC as filler material. The primary objective is to evaluate the suitability of fiber-reinforced hybrid polymers with natural fillers for future engineering applications such as automotive parts, construction materials, 3D printing, etc. In addition, this study investigated how the reinforcement of microcrystalline cellulose can result in a material with enhanced performance as well as its mechanical characteristics (XRD, FTIR, TGA, and SEM characterization).

Abstract India is accelerating efforts to eliminate kala-azar by aligning its National Kala-Azar Elimination Program with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) 2021–2030. Elimination relies on comprehensive vector surveillance and integrated vector management. This study aimed to conduct nationwide entomological surveillance to detect Leishmania donovani in phlebotomine sand flies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 2022 to December 2023 in five different biogeographical zones in India. Mechanical aspirator, light traps were used for sampling. The collected sand flies were identified to species level. Molecular xenomonitoring was conducted using kDNA qPCR, and parasite characterization targeting ITS1 gene sequencing and RFLP. Sand fly species was confirmed by DNA barcode. Molecular xenomonitoring revealed that Phlebotomus argentipes from Bihar, West Bengal, and Kerala exhibited high levels of L. donovani parasitic DNA. In Rajasthan, P. sergenti and P. papatasi and in Himachal Pradesh, P. longiductus, P. major, and P. bruneyi were positive. The high levels of L. donovani parasitic DNA detected in various Phlebotomus species, along with its presence in other sand fly species beyond the established vectors, underscore the urgent need for the National Kala-Azar Elimination Program to prioritize comprehensive and rigorous vector surveillance. Strengthening these efforts is crucial for achieving the program’s goal of eliminating the disease.

Keluak is a multi-purpose plants whose plant part (seeds and leaves) function as herbal medicine. This narrative review aims to reveal the potential of the keluak plant as a source of antioxidants, antimicrobials and its application in the food sector. The literature search method using the Boolean technique is used by combining several keywords with the AND, OR, NOT notations from several kinds of literature, both national and international journals, published from various databases. Various potential antioxidant compounds found in seeds, leaves, keluak fruit are Vitamin E, Vitamin C, polyphenols, saponins, steroids, phenolics, tannins, flavonoids (quercetin and catechins), quinine, and β-carotene. Various bacteria whose growth can be inhibited by extracts/materials from seeds, leaves, and fruit of keluak are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Morganella morganii, Microbacterium testaceum, Raoultella terigena, Salmonella typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Enterobacteriaceae, and viruses SARS CoV 2. Seeds and leaves of the keluak plant have the potential to be developed as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents in commercial dosage forms such as natural food preservatives that are safe to use in food ingredients and processed food products.

Abstract Background Vildagliptin (VLG), an antidiabetic agent, presents a potential solution to this widespread affliction. It exhibits notable attributes, such as a high solubility and a shorter elimination half-life. The current study uses a microreactor to fabricate sustained-release VLG-encapsulated cross-linked chitosan–dextran sulfate nanoparticles (VLG-CDNPs). The fabrication was systematically optimized using the design of experiment approach. Results The optimized VLG-CDNPs had an average particle size of 217.4 ± 12.3 nm and an encapsulation efficiency of 78.25 ± 3.0%. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the nanoparticles had a smooth spherical shape. Spray drying was used for drying, and the reconstitution ability was close to ideal (~ 1.33). In vitro studies revealed sustained VLG release over 12 h, with ~ 58% in acidic and ~ 83% in basic conditions. Cell viability remained at 80% even at 100 μg/mL, and glucose uptake in L6 cells was significantly enhanced with VLG-CDNPs (78.34%) compared to pure VLG (60.91%). VLG-CDNPs also showed moderate inhibitory activity against α-amylase (41.57%) and α-glucosidase (63.48%) compared to pure VLG, which had higher inhibition levels. Conclusion The study’s outcome suggested that the optimized VLG-CDNPs may serve as an effective and promising nanoformulation for managing diabetes mellitus.

Abstract Shifting cultivation, an age-old agricultural practice, is a major factor in forest cover change across Southeast Asia, where repeated cycles of vegetation disturbance and regrowth lead to far-reaching environmental and socio-economic impacts. The present study aims to assess the spatio-temporal patterns of vegetation disturbance and regrowth caused by shifting cultivation in Tripura state of India, over the past three decades, utilizing temporal segmentation of time-series Landsat data. The study analyzed vegetation disturbance and regrowth patterns in a shifting cultivation landscape from 1991 to 2020 using normalized burn ratio trends through LandTrendr, validated by the TimeSync tool. Six land use and land cover classes, viz., forests and trees outside forests, rubber plantation, shifting cultivation, water bodies, agriculture, and settlements, were mapped with an accuracy of 83.08% using a random forest classifier. This classification enabled the identification of the effective study area, which included forest areas with shifting cultivation patches. The analysis revealed that 2533.96 km2 of the study area remained undisturbed, 568.43 km2 experienced low-magnitude disturbance, 1501.11 km2 were moderately disturbed, and 184.82 km2 were highly disturbed. The shifting cultivation cycles in the study area show considerable variation. Low-magnitude disturbance indicates a single slash-and-burn event in the past three decades, moderate-magnitude disturbance involves fallow periods of over 10 years, and high-magnitude disturbance occurs with fallow periods of less than 8 years. The study revealed a shift from traditional shifting cultivation to more permanent agricultural practices in parts of Tripura. In response to incentives for commercial crops, cultivators are increasingly adopting long-term cultivation, including the growing of pineapple, areca nut, and rubber, as well as intercropping with papaya, banana, lemon, tapioca, pepper, and ginger. These plots are, however, abandoned if the yields become economically unviable. The expansion of monoculture cultivation significantly reduces the available area for shifting cultivation, thereby compelling jhum cultivators to revisit their jhum patches more frequently. This study is a first-of-its-kind attempt in the Indian context and sheds light on changing patterns in an age-old agricultural practice.

Abstract This research explores the design of an infrared (IR) photodetector using mercury cadmium telluride (Hg1–x Cd x Te). It proposes two- and three-dimensional homojunction models based on p+-Hg0.7783Cd0.2217Te/n–-Hg0.7783Cd0.2217Te, focusing on applications in the long-wavelength infrared range. The photodetector’s performance is analyzed using Silvaco ATLAS TCAD software and compared with analytical calculations based on drift-diffusion, tunneling, and Chu’s approximation techniques. Optimized for operation at 10.6 μm wavelength under liquid nitrogen temperature, the proposed photodetector demonstrates promising optoelectronic characteristics including the dark current density of 0.20 mA/cm2, photocurrent density of 4.98 A/cm2, and photocurrent density-to-dark current density ratio of 2.46 × 104, a 3-dB cut-off frequency of 104 GHz, a rise time of 0.8 ps, quantum efficiency of 58.30 %, peak photocurrent responsivity of 4.98 A/W, specific detectivity of 3.96 × 1011 cmHz1/2/W, and noise equivalent power of 2.52 × 10–16 W/Hz1/2 indicating its potential for low-noise, high-frequency and fast-switching applications. The study also incorporates machine learning regression models to validate simulation results and provide a predictive framework for performance optimization, evaluating these models using various statistical metrics. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the synergy between advanced materials science and computational techniques in developing next-generation optoelectronic devices. By combining theoretical modeling, simulation, and machine learning, the research highlights the potential to accelerate progress in IR detection technology and enhance device performance and efficiency. This multidisciplinary methodology could serve as a model for future studies in optoelectronics, illustrating how advanced materials and computational methods can be utilized to enhance device capabilities.

Abstract Numerous neurological disorders are linked to sequences rich in guanine repeats found in introns, exons, and regulatory regions of genes. These sequences have been observed to form stable G-quadruplex (GQ) structures both in vitro and in vitro. Cerebellar Ataxia with Neuropathy and Vestibular Areflexia Syndrome (CANVAS), a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is associated with the biallelic expansion of (AAGGG)n pathogenic repeats in the second intron of the RFC1 gene. Though these G-rich pathogenic repeats in other neurological diseases are associated with protein loss of function, RNA gain of function, and/or protein gain of function, not much is known about the pathological mechanism associated with CANVAS. Herein, we report the formation of stable GQ conformations in the CANVAS-associated repeats i.e., r(AAGGG)n, where ‘r’ stands for RNA. These GQs are critical regulators in neurological disorders leading to RNA foci formation and RNA binding protein sequestration. They also alter other causative processes like intron retention, which leads us to hypothesize a toxic Proteinopathy mechanism in CANVAS. Various biophysical and biomolecular assays characterized the interactions of three aggregation-prone RNA-binding proteins (RBPs): heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein H1/F (hnRNP H1/F), and DGCR8 with different pathogenic repeats [(AAGGG)9] in vitro, further affirming the hypothesis. The biophysical observations are further supported by molecular dynamics analysis and cell-based studies, putting us a step closer to elucidating the pathological mechanism(s) in CANVAS neuropathy, paving the way for the development of innovative therapeutic interventions.

Abstract The traditional approach of open-sun drying is facing contemporary challenges arising from the widespread adoption of energy-intensive methods and the quality of drying. In response, solar dryers have emerged as a sustainable alternative, utilizing solar thermal energy to effectively dehydrate vegetables. This study investigates the performance of a single-basin, double-slope solar dryer utilizing natural convection for drying bottle gourds and tomatoes, presenting a sustainable alternative to traditional open-sun drying. The solar dryer exhibited superior moisture removal efficiency, achieving a 94.42% reduction in tomatoes and 83.87% in bottle gourds, compared to open-sun drying. Drying rates were significantly enhanced, with maximum air and plate temperatures reaching 54.42 °C and 63.38 °C, respectively, accelerating the dehydration process. Moisture diffusivity analysis revealed a marked improvement in drying behavior under solar drying, with values ranging from 3.12 × 10−11 to 4.31 × 10−11 m2/s for bottle gourds, and 4.65 × 10−11 to 2.31 × 10−11 m2/s for tomatoes. Energy efficiency assessments highlighted the solar dryer’s advantage, with exergy efficiency peaking at 61.78% for bottle gourds and 68.5% for tomatoes. Furthermore, the activation energy required for drying was significantly lower in the solar dryer (29.14–46.41 kJ/mol for bottle gourds and 27.16–55.42 kJ/mol for tomatoes) compared to open-sun drying, enhancing energy conservation. Visual inspections confirmed the superior quality of the solar-dried vegetables, free from dust and impurities. An economic analysis underscored the system’s viability, with payback periods of 2 years for bottle gourds and 1.6 years for tomatoes. Overall, this study demonstrates the efficacy of solar dryers in optimizing vegetable preservation while promoting energy efficiency, aligning with global sustainability goals by reducing post-harvest losses and supporting eco-friendly practices.

Abstract Pneumatic planters are widely adopted in precision agriculture due to their superior field performance and minimal seed damage. However, variations in seed size, shape, and orientation can affect the ability of each orifice to pick and release a single seed accurately. Seed metering units typically incorporate seed cut-off and knock-out devices to improve singulation and ensure timely seed dropping, enhancing the quality feed index and reducing the precision index. These auxiliary devices—whether mechanical, electronic, pneumatic, or magnetic—increase system complexity, require skilled operation, necessitate additional maintenance, consume more energy, and heighten the risk of seed damage. The suctioned seed experiences impact from the seed metering plate during picking, and orifices are not fully sealed after seed pick-up, leading to a need for higher vacuum pressure. Additionally, field vibrations can adversely affect planter performance. To overcome these issues, this study developed a novel flexible orifice seed metering plate and optimised its operating parameters for cotton seed, adopting a central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The plates were developed by adding a layer of elastomeric material on rigid seed metering plate. The experiments were conducted using a developed electronic sticky belt setup in laboratory. An orifice diameter of 3 mm, vacuum pressure of 3.40 kPa, forward speed of 4.67 km/h, extended radius of 1 mm and coating thickness of 0.25 mm were found optimum with a quality feed index of 97.289% and precision index of 4.653%. Minimal difference between laboratory and field performance was noted when operated by an electronic planter. The miss index, multiple index, and precision index obtained under field conditions with rigid seed metering plate were found to be 4.4, 2.8, and 9.08% higher than coated seed metering plate, respectively. A comparatively lower optimal vacuum pressure and higher operation speed was achieved when coated seed metering plate was used in place of rigid seed metering plate. Hence coated seed metering plate can be a low-cost solution to achieve higher speed of precision planting with improved seeding performance. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background A petroleum leak into the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam water system on Oahu, Hawaii in November 2021 contaminated the drinking water of approximately 93,000 users, causing many to relocate for months. Perceptions of health and wellbeing were captured using the Centers for Disease Control/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (CDC/ATSDR) Assessment of Chemical Exposures (ACE) cross-sectional survey in collaboration with the Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH). Methods Responses from the ACE online survey of community members, businesses, schools, health care and veterinary care organizations during the contamination event, containing quantitative questions and qualitative information from an open text field, were analyzed. Separately, a qualitative key informant questionnaire was administered to community establishments. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze and identify prominent themes from the ACE open text field and the key informant responses that were triangulated by the quantitative data when the themes aligned. Results Six major themes of disruption, communication, trust, stress, support, and ongoing needs were identified. Burdensome logistics from obtaining alternate water, negative financial impacts from relocation or losing business, distrust of information, perceived lack of support from response entities and uncertainty of long-term health impact caused significant disruption, stress and mental health. Individuals reported needing water, shelter, and mental health care while establishments wanted financial reimbursement and a resolution. Conclusions The findings show that environmental disasters have significant disruptive and mental health impacts from stress. Identified themes can inform and improve emergency response and communication strategies and increase trust with community members during and after large chemical exposure events.

Abstract Improving the forecasting accuracy of agricultural commodity prices is critical for many stakeholders namely, farmers, traders, exporters, governments, and all other partners in the price channel, to evade risks and enable appropriate policy interventions. However, the traditional mono-scale smoothing techniques often fail to capture the non-stationary and non-linear features due to their multifarious structure. This study has proposed a CEEMDAN (Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise)-TDNN (Time Delay Neural Network) model for forecasting non-linear, non-stationary agricultural price series. This study has evaluated its suitability in comparison with the other three major EMD (Empirical Mode Decomposition) variants (EMD, Ensemble EMD and Complementary Ensemble EMD) and the benchmark (Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average, Non-linear Support Vector Regression, Gradient Boosting Machine, Random Forest and TDNN) models using monthly wholesale prices of major oilseed crops in India. Outcomes from this investigation reflect that the CEEMDAN-TDNN hybrid models have outperformed all other forecasting models on the basis of evaluation metrics under consideration. For the proposed model, an average improvement of RMSE (Root Mean Square Error), Relative RMSE and MAPE (Mean Absolute Percentage Error) values has been observed to be 20.04%, 19.94% and 27.80%, respectively over the other EMD variant-based counterparts and 57.66%, 48.37% and 62.37%, respectively over the other benchmark stochastic and machine learning models. The CEEMD-TDNN and CEEMDAN-TDNN models have demonstrated superior performance in predicting the directional changes of monthly price series compared to other models. Additionally, the accuracy of forecasts generated by all models has been assessed using the Diebold-Mariano test, the Friedman test, and the Taylor diagram. The results confirm that the proposed hybrid model has outperformed the alternative models, providing a distinct advantage.

Abstract The transcription repressor REST in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is upregulated by peripheral nerve injury and promotes the development of chronic pain. However, the genes targeted by REST in neuropathic pain development remain unclear. The expression levels of four opioid receptor genes (Oprm1, Oprd1, Oprl1 and Oprk1) and the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (Cnr1) gene in the DRG regulate nociception. In this study, we determined the role of REST in controlling their expression in the DRG induced by spared nerve injury (SNI). SNI induced chronic pain hypersensitivity in wild-type mice and was accompanied by increased levels of Rest transcript and protein. Transcriptomic analyses of wild-type mouse DRGs suggested that SNI upregulates the expression of Rest transcripts and downregulates the transcripts of all four opioid receptor genes and the Cnr1 gene. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses of these tissues validated these results. Analysis of publicly available bioinformatic data suggested that REST binds to the promoter regions of Oprm1 and Cnr1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses indicated the presence of REST at these promoters. Full-length Rest conditional knockout in primary sensory neurons reduced SNI-induced pain hypersensitivity and rescued the SNI-induced reduction in the expression of Oprd1 and Cnr1 in mouse DRG. Our results suggest that nerve injury represses the transcription of at least the Oprd1 and Cnr1 genes via REST in primary sensory neurons and that REST is a potential therapeutic target for neuropathic pain. Thus, inhibiting REST activity could potentially reduce chronic neuropathic pain and augment opioid/cannabinoid analgesic actions by increasing the transcription of Oprd1 and Cnr1 genes in DRG neurons.

Abstract Plasma membrane repair in response to damage is essential for cell viability. The ferlin family protein dysferlin plays a key role in Ca2+-dependent membrane repair in striated muscles. Mutations in dysferlin lead to a spectrum of diseases known as dysferlinopathies. The lack of a structure of dysferlin and other ferlin family members has impeded a mechanistic understanding of membrane repair mechanisms and the development of therapies. Here, we present the cryo-EM structures of the full-length human dysferlin monomer and homodimer at 2.96 Å and 4.65 Å resolution. These structures define the architecture of dysferlin, ferlin family-specific domains, and homodimerization mechanisms essential to function. Furthermore, biophysical and cell biology studies revealed how missense mutations in dysferlin contribute to disease mechanisms. In summary, our study provides a framework for the molecular mechanisms of dysferlin and the broader ferlin family, offering a foundation for the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at treating dysferlinopathies.

Abstract The concept of sustainability has become a crucial concern for safeguarding the planet. The current research has focused on developing affordable and eco-friendly mortar by using industrial wastes. This study explores the use of fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), byproducts of steelmaking and coal burning, in mortar production. It examines their impacts on the compressive strength and setting times, when utilizing varying proportions of the materials. The study also evaluates water requirements for the workability, thus demonstrating the sustainability of these waste products in construction. The cementitious materials were employed in finely ground form and were replaced with further tertiary mixes including both supplements at 10%, 30%, and 50% of each. The mixtures were allowed to cure for 7, 14, and 28 days by immersion in water. The results showed improvements in the compressive strength of mortar samples incorporating FA and GGBFS at various curing ages. However, the water requirement and workability of mortar samples were altered as a result of utilizing these supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). These findings will serve as a standard for environmentally responsible mortar using GGBFS and/or FA as SCMs.

Purpose Prenatal and perinatal experiences of the mother are known to influence infant development. Maternal exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy has been associated with increased morbidity and mother-baby separation. However, the developmental outcomes of infants born to COVID-19-positive mothers remain unclear. This study represents an initial exploratory effort to assess the developmental risks faced by infants born to mothers who tested positive for COVID-19. Methods This cross-sectional study involved telephonic interviews and developmental screenings of 45 infants, aged 9 to 15 months, who were born to perinatal COVID-19-positive mothers between July 2020 and May 2021. The Ages & Stages Questionnaire was used for the developmental assessment. The impacts of maternal, infant and separation-related factors on development were analyzed. Results Within the study population, 28.8% (13 of 45 infants) presented with a risk of developmental delay. The gross motor and problem-solving domains were the most frequently impacted. Among the factors studied, prolonged separation period (exceeding 7 days), advanced maternal age, and gestational age (preterm birth) were associated with higher proportions of infants at risk of developmental delay; however, these associations were not statistically significant. Conclusion This study suggests that infants born to mothers who tested positive for COVID-19 during the perinatal period face a risk of developmental delay. Factors such as maternal age, gestational age at birth, metabolic disease during pregnancy, and infant-mother separation could exacerbate this risk. Future research should prioritize objective assessments of development and long-term follow-up to monitor developmental outcomes in this population.

Background From large-scale studies especially taking the reference of the Asian population, it has been documented that those with metabolic syndrome have restrictive pulmonary function tests. Objective To assess lung function using spirometry in patients with metabolic syndrome. Materials and Methods A prospective observational study was carried out among 50 cases with known metabolic syndrome. Waist circumference was measured. After overnight fasting, 5 ml of venous blood was collected under sterile aseptic conditions for fasting plasma glucose (by glucose oxidase and peroxidase method) and lipid profile (triglycerides-GPO-POD, high-density lipoprotein-enzyme selective protective direct done in our lab). Blood pressure was measured manually by sphygmomanometer by taking average of three readings. Pulmonary function tests were conducted using the spirometry. Results Majority were 41–60 years (44%). The mean age was 49.89 ± 12.12 years. Females were more than males (58% vs. 42%). Majority (>40%) of males and females had the comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension and abnormal lipid profile. Hypertension was significantly more in 40–60 years compared to younger or older age groups (P < 0.05). But, diabetes and abnormal lipid profile were not significantly different across age groups (P > 0.05). The factors like being male, diabetic, obese and having abnormal lipid profile were significantly associated with the abnormal pulmonary function test (P < 0.05). Age and hypertension were not associated with the abnormal pulmonary function test (P > 0.05). Conclusions In patients with metabolic syndrome, presence of diabetes, being male, obesity and abnormal lipid profile affect the normal pulmonary function. Hence, all patients with metabolic syndrome should try to modify the lifestyle to prevent the restrictive pulmonary function.

Background The mortality risks of children undergoing various cardiac surgeries for congenital heart disease (CHD) in India are not well defined. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the inhospital mortality of various common CHD surgeries reported in India and compared it to representative data from established Western databases. Methods and Results We searched four bibliographic databases for studies published in India over the last 25 years. In total, 135 studies met the inclusion criteria and included 30,587 patients aged from 1 day to 65 years. The pooled mortality rate of 43 Indian studies reporting multiple CHD surgical outcomes is 5.63% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.26–7.16; I2 = 93.9%), whereas the Western data showed a pooled mortality rate of 2.65% (P value for comparison

Background: The delivery of dental treatment might be negatively impacted by a child’s unwillingness to cooperate. Judging a behavior-guiding strategy that successfully lowers fear and anxiety during dental treatment, results in a change in the child’s attitude toward the treatment, and is also accepted by the parents is necessary given the variety of behavior management strategies that are available. While conventional techniques of behavior modification have been effective, parents’ and dental professionals’ attitudes regarding them are evolving. New nonaversive approaches that are acceptable to parents are thus required. One such approach that may find favor with parents and dental professionals is music therapy. Methods: Pertinent medical databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched from January 1, 2001, to April 20, 2023, for randomized controlled trials and clinical studies that used music and no music (control) in children undergoing dental treatment. Primary outcomes included a decrease in pulse rate as measured through pulse oximeter in children undergoing dental treatment. Results: Through search strategy and screening through titles and abstracts, four randomized clinical trials (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation [GRADE] high certainty) and eight nonrandomized studies (GRADE high certainty) were included and the pooled results bared that the music pulse rate was significantly reduced in children who were made to listen to the music than those who did not listen to music during dental treatment. Conclusion: It was established that music distraction was a better behavior management technique as compared to no music group and instrumental music was better when compared to the nursery rhyme for anxiety reduction in children.

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is an important health problem with increasing incidence nowadays. Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) and its prevalence in diabetes and risk factors associated with it were analysed in this study. Aims and Objectives: The study aims to find the association of ASB with patient age, duration of diabetes, glucosuria, and plasma glucose levels. Materials and Methods: It were an observational cross-sectional study conducted in Shifaa hospital, among 150 type 2 DM patients over a period of 12 months. The investigations done were RBS, HbA1c, urine routine and urine culture. Data were entered into Microsoft excel sheet and was analysed. Results: The prevalence of ASB among type 2 DM was found to be 23.3%. The most common organism isolated in this study was Escherichia coli (62.9%), Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis (11.4%). Association of ASB with female sex, duration of diabetes, bacteriuria, pyuria and glucosuria found to have significant association among Diabetics. Where as poor glycemic control, age, proteinuria, BMI does not found to have any significant association with ASB in diabetics. Conclusions: Overall prevalence of ASB among diabetics was around 23.3%. Females have an increased likelihood of developing ASB as compared to males. E.coli was the most common pathogen isolated in ASB cases. Longer duration of diabetes was an important risk factor for the development of ASB. The risk of ASB is also significantly increased in those with glucosuria.

Abstract Background The 4 serotypes of dengue virus (DENV1-4) can each cause potentially deadly dengue disease, and are spreading globally from tropical and subtropical areas to more temperate ones. Nepal provides a microcosm of this global phenomenon, having met each of these grim benchmarks. To better understand DENV transmission dynamics and spread into new areas, we chose to study dengue in Nepal and, in so doing, to build the onsite infrastructure needed to manage future, larger studies. Methods and results During the 2022 dengue season, we enrolled 384 patients presenting at a hospital in Kathmandu with dengue-like symptoms; 79% of the study participants had active or recent DENV infection (NS1 antigen and IgM). To identify circulating serotypes, we screened serum from 50 of the NS1+ participants by RT-PCR and identified DENV1, 2, and 3 – with DENV1 and 3 codominant. We also performed whole-genome sequencing of DENV, for the first time in Nepal, using our new on-site capacity. Sequencing analysis demonstrated the DENV1 and 3 genomes clustered with sequences reported from India in 2019, and the DENV2 genome clustered with a sequence reported from China in 2018. Conclusion These findings highlight DENV’s geographic expansion from neighboring countries, identify China and India as the likely origin of the 2022 DENV cases in Nepal, and demonstrate the feasibility of building onsite capacity for more rapid genomic surveillance of circulating DENV. These ongoing efforts promise to protect populations in Nepal and beyond by informing the development and deployment of DENV drugs and vaccines in real time.

Abstract Selective perturbation of protein interactions with chemical compounds enables dissection and control of developmental processes. Differentiation of stomata, cellular valves vital for plant growth and survival, is specified by the basic-helix-loop-helix (bHLH) heterodimers. Harnessing a new amination reaction, we here report a synthesis, derivatization, target identification, and mode of action of an atypical doubly-sulfonylated imidazolone, Stomidazolone, which triggers stomatal stem cell arrest. Our forward chemical genetics followed by biophysical analyses elucidates that Stomidazolone directly binds to the C-terminal ACT-Like (ACTL) domain of MUTE, a master regulator of stomatal differentiation, and perturbs its heterodimerization with a partner bHLH, SCREAM in vitro and in plant cells. On the other hand, Stomidazolone analogs that are biologically inactive do not bind to MUTE or disrupt the SCREAM-MUTE heterodimers. Guided by structural docking modeling, we rationally design MUTE with reduced Stomidazolone binding. These engineered MUTE proteins are fully functional and confer Stomidazolone resistance in vivo. Our study identifies doubly-sulfonylated imidazolone as a direct inhibitor of the stomatal master regulator, further expanding the chemical space for perturbing bHLH-ACTL proteins to manipulate plant development.

Abstract Background Enteric infections are hypothesized to be associated with intussusception in children. A small increase in intussusception following rotavirus vaccination has been seen in some settings. We conducted post-marketing surveillance for intussusception following rotavirus vaccine, Rotavac introduction in India and evaluated association of intussusception with enteric pathogens. Methods In a case-control study nested within a large sentinel hospital-based surveillance program in India, stool samples from 272 children aged less than 2 years admitted for intussusception and 272 age-, gender- and location-matched controls were evaluated with Taqman array card based molecular assays to detect enteric viruses, bacterial enteropathogens and parasites. Matched case-control analysis with conditional logistic regression evaluated association of enteropathogens with intussusception. Population attributable fractions (PAF) were calculated for enteropathogens significantly associated with intussusception. Results The most prevalent enteropathogens in cases and controls were enteroaggregative Escherichia coli, adenovirus 40/41, adenovirus C serotypes and enteroviruses. Children with intussusception were more likely to harbor adenovirus C serotypes (adjusted odds-ratio (aOR) = 1.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–2.87) and enteroviruses (aOR = 1.77; 95% CI 1.05–2.97) than controls. Rotavirus was not associated with increased intussusception risk. Adenovirus C (PAF = 16.9%; 95% CI 4.7% − 27.6%) and enteroviruses (PAF = 14.7%; 95% CI 4.2% − 24.1%) had the highest population attributable fraction for intussusception. Conclusion Adenovirus C serotypes and enteroviruses were significantly associated with intussusception in Indian children. Rotavirus was not associated with risk of intussusception.

Abstract Ultraviolet (UV) light that penetrates our atmosphere initiates various photochemical and photobiological processes. However, the absence of extremely short UV pulses has so far hindered our ability to fully capture the mechanisms at the very early stages of such processes. This is important because the concerted motion of electrons and nuclei in the first few femtoseconds often determines molecular reactivity. Here we investigate the dissociative dynamics of iodomethane following UV photoexcitation, utilizing mass spectrometry with a 5 fs time resolution. The short duration of the UV pump pulse (4.2 fs) allows the ultrafast dynamics to be investigated in the absence of any external field, from well before any significant vibrational displacement occurs until dissociation has taken place. The experimental results combined with semi-classical trajectory calculations provide the identification of the main dissociation channels and indirectly reveal the signature of a conical intersection in the time-dependent yield of the iodine ion. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the UV-induced breakage of the C-I bond can be prevented when the molecule is ionized by the probe pulse within 5 fs after the UV excitation, showcasing an ultrafast stabilization scheme against dissociation.

This study explores the role of academic procrastination in shaping mathematics achievement in Nepali schools. Utilising a quantitative research design, a cross-sectional survey was conducted with 474 students selected through multi-stage cluster sampling from eight public secondary schools in Nepal. The data were analysed using t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regressions. The findings reveal significantly higher levels of both academic achievement and procrastination. Moreover, a high level of academic procrastination was found to have a significant negative effect on mathematics achievement. Influential factors in this correlation include students’ ethnicity, study hours at home, family size, and parents’ educational background. Stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and policymakers, should collaborate synergistically to address the underlying causes of procrastination and provide robust support mechanisms to enhance students’ learning outcomes.

Ayurveda’s distinctiveness lies in its use of Ahara-Vihara (dietic and daily regimes) as a therapeutic method. Sixty therapeutic protocols for wound healing have ahara (food) as one of the approach. Wound healing is a multifactorial mechanism where food plays a significant role in terms of micro and macro nutrients. In clinical practice, understanding Pathya Kalpana (conducive practises) is crucial as it considered as half of the treatment, Ardha Chikitsa (Partial Treatment) and it also stabilises digestive and metabolic fires (jataragni and dhatwagni). Prescribing medicines and ignoring a proper lifestyle and diet changes serve no purpose as it only defeats the symptoms of the disease without attending the root causative factors of a disease, as Apathya (non conducive practices) are the major causative factors of pathogenesis. Even a treatment protocol which can hit the bull’s eye would fail, when a patient has inappropriate diet and indulges in improper activities of routine. The knowledge of influence of shadrasa (six tastes) in healing, method of eating, conducive and non conducive foods and regimes given in scriptures, properties and effects of the wholesome foods and its indications is beneficial for establishing a structured treatment protocol. Various types of wounds and different phases of wound healing can be approached by a specifically designed diet and regimes.

Maize (Zea mays Linnaeus), a prominent cereal crop of Nepal, which suffers significantly from storage pest, particularly maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky)), during storage by creating holes and consuming the internal part. Effective management of the pest and reduction grain loss is crucial. To address this problem, a study was conducted at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, from April to August, 2023, evaluating the efficacy of essential oils of Acorus calamus Linnaeus, Cuminum cyminum Linnaeus, and Piper nigrum Linnaeus against S. zeamais. Essential oils were extracted using the Clevenger type steam hydrodistillation method. Concentrations of essential oils (5%, 2.5%, 1.25%, 0.63%, 0.31%, 0.15%) were tested in a two factor completely randomized design (CRD) using oils and doses as the two factor, with four replications and control group. The study assessed lethal concentration, weight loss, and repellence tests in petridishes. Progeny of maize weevils (1-7 days old) were introduced into petridishes having 7mm diameter of Whatman filter paper to evaluate the mortality and repellency effect. The number of insects on both side of the petridish (treated and untreated paper) was counted as part of the repellence test. Mortality in treated grains was observed over a 20 days, and with weight loss measured after 60 days. Results showed significant insecticidal activity, with the median lethal concentration (LC50) of A. calamus oil at 24 and 72 hours calculated as 1.24% and 0.43%, respectively in laboratory bioassay. The LC50 for A. calamus treated maize was 4.70% and 0.70% for 1 and 20 days, respectively, followed by C. cyminum and P. nigrum. Acorus calamus Linnaeus oil demonstrated the highest repellent activity (90.00%) at 5% concentration after 4 hours of treatment. Moreover, maize treated with A. calamus oil showed significantly lower weight loss (0.62%) compared to the control. This study indicated the potential of A. calamus oil for pest control, concerns remain regarding its suitability for feed and food purposes due to associated health risks. These findings underscore the need for further research to explore safer alternatives for pest management in maize storage.

Background: Anxiety is a significant psychological challenge for patients newly diagnosed with cancer and scheduled for chemotherapy, potentially affecting their treatment adherence. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of watching the Tom and Jerry cartoon on reducing anxiety in individuals undergoing chemotherapy for the first time.Method: This pilot study employed a prospective, non-randomized, observational, two-arm, pre-and post-test design involving literate English-speaking patients (test group) and non-literate patients (control group) who were about to receive cytotoxic chemotherapy for their cancer. The test group viewed Tom and Jerry cartoons via video systems, whereas the control group was exposed to Kannada movies. An 11-point Likert scale featuring facial expressions assessed patients' anxiety levels three times: 20 minutes before, 30 minutes after, and following the chemotherapy session. Data analysis included frequency, percentage, chi-square tests for patient and treatment data, and repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction for anxiety scores at three-time intervals. A P-value of

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to measure and describe the national patient experience of radical cystectomy (RC) pathways in the UK using the validated Cystectomy‐Pathway Assessment Tool (C‐PAT). Patients and Methods A cohort of 1081 patients who underwent RC for bladder cancer, between 1 January 2021 and 31 July 2022 at 33 UK cystectomy centres, returned completed C‐PAT responses. SPSS was employed for data summary statistics, including median, interquartile range, Mann Whitney U test or Chi‐square test with a 95% confidence interval to assess statistical significance between potentially associated variables. Open‐text responses in the C‐PAT tool were analysed and coded using NVivo software. Results In this cohort, the greatest perceived delay in the RC pathway, reported by 19% of patients (n = 208), was at the GP consultation to first hospital referral stage with suspected bladder cancer. Around 10% of patients perceived delays at each of the other stages in their pathway. Cancer nurse specialist (CNS) contact was strongly associated with an improved patient experience (p

Abstract As the global prevalence of chronic liver disease continues to rise, the need to determine which patients will develop end-stage liver disease and require liver transplantation is increasingly important. However, current prognostic models perform sub-optimally. We aim to determine microRNA profiles associated with clinical decompensation and mortality/transplantation within 1 year. We examined microRNA expression profiles in plasma samples from patients across the spectrum of cirrhosis (n = 154), acute liver failure (ALF) (n = 22), sepsis (n = 20) and healthy controls (HC) (n = 20). We demonstrated that a microRNA-based model (miR-24 and -27a) associated with systemic inflammation differentiated decompensated cirrhosis states from compensated cirrhosis and HC (AUC 0.77 (95% CI 0.69–0.85)). 6 patients within the compensated cirrhosis group decompensated the subsequent year and their exclusion improved model performance (AUC 0.81 (95% CI 0.71–0.89)). miR-191 (associated with liver injury) predicted risk of mortality across the cohort when acutely decompensated and acute-on-chronic-liver failure patients were included. When they were excluded miR-24 (associated with systemic inflammation) predicted risk of mortality. Our findings demonstrate that microRNA associated with systemic inflammation and liver injury predict adverse outcomes in cirrhosis. miR-24 and -191 require further investigation as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for patients with liver disease.

Abstract The present study focuses on the green synthesis of a novel Z-scheme SnS₂/HAp photocatalyst using Ocimum tenuiflorum (tulsi) leaf extract as a stabilizing agent. This approach not only emphasizes sustainability but also adds value to waste by extracting hydroxyapatite (HAp) from Labeo rohita fish scales, addressing the challenge of their disposal. The synthesized photocatalyst was thoroughly characterized using a range of analytical techniques to evaluate its crystal structure, optical properties, morphology, and elemental composition. The photocatalytic activity of the SnS₂/HAp composite was assessed through the degradation of gentian violet (GV) dye, a representative organic pollutant. Various reaction parameters were optimized to enhance the degradation efficiency, and the photocatalyst’s performance was further tested across different water matrices. Under optimal conditions, the SnS₂/HAp photocatalyst achieved a maximum photodegradation efficiency of 97.49% with a rate constant of 0.0494 min− 1 for GV dye. Additionally, it exhibited an efficiency greater than 70% against other emerging pollutants via advanced oxidation processes (AOP). The enhanced photocatalytic activity was attributed to the formation of a Z-Scheme heterojunction between SnS2 and HAp, which enhanced the charge separation efficiency and delayed the charge recombination. The study also demonstrated the photocatalyst’s remarkable reusability, maintaining high performance over five cycles and across various water environments. This highlights its potential as a sustainable solution for the removal of organic pollutants from aqueous streams. Finally, a Z-scheme electron transport mechanism is proposed to explain the photodegradation process of GV dye using the SnS₂/HAp photocatalyst.

The healthcare landscape has undergone a profound transformation due to digitalisation in recent decades, shifting from manual practices to automated processes. Digital biomarkers have become increasingly important in healthcare across multiple domains for regular monitoring of health parameters, aiding in early disease detection and prevention. The present narrative review aims to explore the utility and advantages of digital biomarkers in healthcare. Notably, the literature emphasises portable biomarkers capable of actively recording user data. These advanced biomarkers efficiently identify physiological, biochemical and psychological parameters, offering predictive capabilities for health conditions and treatment outcomes. In this dynamic healthcare landscape, digital science has brought transformative changes. Investments in digital health show promising outcomes for disease management and patient care. Overall, the integration of digital biomarkers into healthcare represents a significant leap forward in improving healthcare delivery, diagnosis and treatment. It leverages technology to enhance the precision and efficiency of healthcare, ultimately benefiting both healthcare professionals and patients. While the scope of digital biomarkers continues to expand and is expected to grow in the future, addressing potential challenges is essential for sustained innovation in this field.