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The study assessed the efficacy of phytofabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles (CF-ZnONPs) and L-ascorbic acid in alleviating pre-slaughter transport induced stress in birds of Sonali breed (Cross bred of Rhode Island Red cocks and Fayoumi hens). A total of 120 birds were divided into four groups: negative control (T1) which were loaded in vehicle but not transported, Positive control (T2) birds were transported without any prior supplementation, T3 and T4 birds were transported with prior supplementation (a day before transportation) of CF-ZnONPs @100 µg/ml and L-ascorbic acid @82 µg/ml in drinking water. Results obtained observed significant reduction in live weight, meat colour and pH but increased drip loss percentage in T2 group. Significantly elevated H/L ratio was recorded in all transported groups. Increased cortisol and TSH levels and decreased thyroid hormones, Triiodothyronine and thyroxin (T3 and T4) levels were recorded in T2 group. However, supplementation with CF-ZnONPs and L-ascorbic acid notably reversed these adverse effects, restoring meat quality and other metabolic profiles. Notably, ascorbic acid exhibited greater efficacy, suggesting its superior role in mitigating transportation-induced stress. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of antioxidant supplementation in alleviating transport induced stress in birds.

Objective To describe antibiotic prescribing practices using the WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification in West African children under 5 years of age attending public primary health centres (PHCs).Design Cross-sectional study.Setting The AIRE project implemented the systematic use of pulse oximetry into integrated management of childhood illness consultations in West African countries (Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger). We described antibiotic prescriptions for outpatient children at 16 PHCs and for severe cases referred at district hospitals.Patients Between 14 June 2021 and 19 June 2022, 15 854 outpatients were included: 968 neonates and young infants (0–28 days) and 14 886 children (2–59 months). Among them, 78 (8.1%) neonates and young infants and 385 (2.6%) children were hospitalised. We evaluated 58 hospitalised neonates and young infants and 275 hospitalised children, respectively.Main outcome measures Frequency of antibiotic prescriptions according to the AWaRe classification recommended by WHO.Results At the PHC level, proportions of neonates and young infants with ≥1 antibiotic prescription were 83%, 62%, 71% and 59% in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger, respectively. A total of 805 antibiotics were prescribed (85% Access and 13% Watch). The proportions of children with ≥1 antibiotic prescription reached 71%, 66%, 63% and 36% in Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger, respectively. Out of the 9630 antibiotics prescribed, 93% were Access (mainly amoxicillin), and 7% Watch. At the hospital level, Watch antibiotics were mainly prescribed for severe cases referred. No Reserve antibiotics were prescribed.Conclusions High proportions of antibiotics were prescribed to outpatient children included, the appropriateness of which needs further study. Nevertheless, in every country, the proportion prescribed in the Access group reached the minimum threshold of 60% of all antibiotic prescriptions, as recommended by WHO.Trial registration number PACTR202206525204526.

Context: Evidence shows that knowledge is important in tackling pandemics. By assessing awareness and knowledge about the coronavirus, more profound insights can be gained into existing public reception and practices, thereby helping to identify attributes that influence the adoption of healthy practices and responsive behavior. Assessing knowledge is important in identifying gaps and strengthening ongoing prevention efforts. Aims: The study aimed to investigate the geriatric population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) during the pandemic spike. Settings and Design: The study was designed as a cross-sectional study; a questionnaire was developed regarding the World Health Organization training material for the detection, prevention, response, and control of COVID-19 and was validated by experts in geriatrics and public health. Materials and Methods: A prevalidated questionnaire consisting of four sections will be used. The first section consists of demographic data such as age and gender. The second, third, and fourth section will include prevalidated questions to gather information about the patient's KAP regarding general awareness of COVID-19 among geriatric patients in a tertiary care center in central Kerala. The inclusion criteria included patients of age 60 years and above, patients who are willing to participate in the study, and patients who are willing to give informed consent. The questionnaire was answered by over 199 participants anonymously from November 01, 2021, to February 08, 2022. Results: In our study, 199 participants were involved the mean knowledge score was 10.3 ± 1.224. The average attitude score regarding COVID-19 among the participants was 1.9 ± 1.1. The majority of the participants (67.8%) had a poor attitude toward COVID-19. There was a significant difference in average attitude scores according to socioeconomic status. According to the present study, the average correct answer score of the ten questions regarding COVID-19 practice was 6.3 ± 1.4. The majority of participants (75.4%) had moderate practice toward COVID-19. The average practice scores were significant difference among the socioeconomic status. Conclusions: The third wave of the pandemic demonstrated good knowledge, positive attitudes, and reasonable practice regarding COVID-19 during the outbreak. The results indicated the need for the health system to attempt to increase the public knowledge of the older people to improve their attitude and practice to deal with the crisis.

Background: In today's society, suicide is major public problem and has become a global issue accounting for about 1.4% of the death worldwide. It is highly undesirable event and urgently requires development of preventive approaches. Hypothesis: Cholesterol is a core component of central nervous system essential for cell membrane stability and the correct functioning of neurotransmission. It is hypothesized that reduced serum cholesterol level may be accompanied by changes in function of serotonin receptors and transporters. Aims: The project 'Serum Lipid Profile Levels in Suicide Attempters' aimed to find out the relation of serum lipid levels in Suicide Attempters. Methodology: A Case Control Study was conducted and it was observed that the people coming with suicide attempt has significant decrease in the serum cholesterol levels when compared to those of normal healthy Individual. Results: Total serum cholesterol was lower in suicide attempters than the control group. The odds of suicide attempt was 3 times more in people with low serum cholesterol. Conclusion: Our study findings demonstrate that serum total cholesterol can be considered as an important and independent risk factor for Suicidality.

Background and Objective: COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. The mortality in susceptible populations with chronic pulmonary disease, cardiac ailments, kidney disease, diabetes, and hypertension is high. While the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in contracting novel coronavirus has clearly been elucidated, there remains uncertainty in the prognosis and outcome of COVID-19-infected patients on ACE inhibitors and ARBs. The current study was conducted to find whether these medications bore any significance in the prognosis and outcome of hypertensive patients with COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. We studied 96-admitted hypertensive patients with pneumonia due to COVID-19 in Krishna Rajendra Hospital at Mysore during April 2021. Patients were categorized into two groups based on antihypertensive treatment: (1) Those on ACEi/ARBs (n = 33) and (2) Those on non-ACEi/ARBs (n = 66). We analyzed the parameters such as duration of hypertension, comorbidities, mode of oxygen/pressure support delivery, duration of hospital stay, and mortality among the two groups. Results: 65.6% of patients were on non-ACEi/ARBs, 10.4% on ACE inhibitors, and 24% on ARBs. Of the patients on non-ACEi/non-ARBs, 51% were on supplemental oxygen, 20.8% were on NIV, 6.3% were intubated, and 21.9% did not require oxygen. Of those on ACEi, 63.6% were on supplemental oxygen, 15.2% were on NIV, none were intubated, and 21.2% did not require oxygen. Of those on ARBs, 53.3% were on supplemental oxygen, 18.5% were on NIV, 5.4% were intubated, and 22.8% did not require oxygen. 62.5% of patients on non-ACEi/ARBs recovered, whereas 37.5% succumbed. 83.3% of patients on ACEi recovered, whereas 16.7% succumbed. 65.2% of patients on ARBs recovered, whereas 34.8% succumbed. There was no significant correlation between non-ACEi/ARBs, ACEi, and ARBs with duration of hypertension (P = 0.092), sex (P = 0.189), mode of oxygen/pressure support delivery (P = 0.313), ward/intensive care unit stay (P = 0.624), and the final outcome of the patient (P = 0.734). Conclusion: In the population studied, the use of ACEi/ARBs in COVID-positive hypertensives was not associated with adverse outcomes as compared to those on non-ACEi/non-ARBs.

Agri-entrepreneurship being very important component of attracting youth to agriculture, the efforts made by different public agencies in India in this direction through various interventions and enterprises needed to be studied. Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) production is one of the most popular enterprises promoted to pursue this objective throughout India. This study considered 2016–17 as the base year and 2020–21 as the assessment year. Mushroom production in India almost doubled during the assessment period (1.29 lakh tonnes in 2016–17 and 2.59 lakh tonnes in 2020–21) at a robust compound annual growth rate of 19.17%. The net agricultural income of the respondents at national level (other than mushroom income) was ₹1.25 lakh/annum during 2020–21 while their net income from mushroom cultivation was 2.48 lakh/annum. On an average 532 man-days of employment per unit was generated by the mushroom entrepreneurs at national level with considerable variation in income and employment generation across the states/UTs. Age of the entrepreneur was found having negative effect on employment generation, validating the relevance of attracting rural youth to agriculture in India. The lack of ability of resource centres for building capacity of the entrepreneurs for generating net income to the level of sizeable proportion of their annual expected livelihood was observed to be the strong reason for higher attrition rate in this enterprise. The insights suggest that redesigning of capacity building programs and institutional supports as per the current challenges in entrepreneurship development can better influence the ultimate outcomes.

Janwal Pashmi is the medium sized dog found in the villages of Chakur tehsil of Latur and adjoining districts of Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Present investigation was carried out by collecting morphometric data on 207 Janwal Pashmi dogs from its breeding tract. Data collected was classified into two age groups, i.e. below one year (puppies) and above one year (adult). Majority of the dogs were found to be black in colour (78.26%), however, fawn (8.69%), brown (4.34%), grey (5.79%) and white (2.89%) were also noticed. Most of the dogs were found to have medium hairs length (51.20%) followed by long hairs (43.47%) and rarely short hair length (5.31%). The head was straight and wedge shaped with 69.56% and 30.43%, respectively. The colour of nostrils in majority of dogs was black (95.16%) and very few dogs had brown (3.86%) and pinkish (0.96%) colour nostrils. Eyes were light brown (47.34%) to dark brown (52.65%). Majority of dogs had long ear (54.58%) while medium sized ears were observed in 42.02% of dogs. Morphometric characters studied were body weight (BW), height at wither (HW), body length (BL), chest girth (CG), paunch girth (PG), tail length (TL), head length (HL), height at base of tail (HBT), neck length (NL), neck girth (NG), ear length (EL), ear width (EW), eye width (EYW), hind foot length (HFL), upper hind leg length (UHLL), lower hind leg length (LHLL), fore foot length (FFL), upper fore leg length (UFLL) and lower fore leg length (LFLL). The effect of sex was found to be non-significant on all the traits in puppies except BW, HW, HBT, NL, UHLL and UFLL. However, BW, HW, BL, CG, TL, HL, HBT, NL, NG, HFL, UHLL, LHLL, FFL and UFLL were found significantly higher in males of adult age group. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food was given to dogs and majority of farmers used iron mesh cages for keeping dogs. The characterization of Janwal Pashmi dog done in this study may help in the registration of this dog as a breed status and further conservation.

The aim of this study is to present the cases of patients who visited the psychiatric department because of their disorderly behavior related to a psychotic episode. Before admission, the patient underwent thorough examination and investigations to rule out acute organic causes of altered mental status, and a radiological examination of the brain revealed abnormalities of the corpus callosum. The commissural pathway, the corpus callosum which connects the two hemispheres of the brain, is either partially or completely absent in patients which is a rare congenital condition. It plays a role in the brain's motor, sensory, and cognitive functions. With regard to the prevalence of undetected abnormalities of corpus callosum and potential underlying genetic contributions in patients with severe mental illness, this case series offers an interesting incidental anatomical finding in patients with psychotic symptoms.

COVID-19 caused by a novel agent SARS-CoV-2 progressed to a pandemic condition and resulted in a major public health concern worldwide, leading to social and economic issues at the same time. Vaccinated people getting infected with SARS-COV2 brings a dilemma among the population whether to get vaccinated or not. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of vaccination by comparing the lung involvement in vaccinated and un vaccinated Covid – 19 patients. Retrospective anonymised data of COVID-19 inpatients who underwent HRCT scan during the second wave of pandemic were collected through a validated data collection form, from the medical records of tertiary care private medical college hospital. Vaccinated and non-vaccinated COVID-19 positive participants of 33 each were included in the study. CT severity score (CTS), D-dimer, IL-6 level, oxygen requirement and duration of hospital stay were statistically analysed using appropriate methods. The mean age of the study participants were 56.93 ± 16.01 years. There was no statistical significance between both the groups with respect to gender distribution in vaccinated and unvaccinated groups. There was a statistically significant difference in mean CTS score(p

The impact of epilepsy is multidimensional, ranging from socioeconomic to medical to psychological problems. The additional burden on quality of life is not only due to disease but also to the antiepileptic medication-related adverse effects. Though the majority of epileptics dwell in developing countries, studies have found a lack of knowledge, attitude, and practice towards epilepsy and its management, leading to a large treatment gap. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of epilepsy and antiepileptic medication among the general population, including epileptics or caregivers. A 6 month (August 2022 to February 2023) prospective, cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study utilizing Google Forms as a data collection tool was conducted among the general population at a tertiary care hospital in Coimbatore employing convenient sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics (paired t-test, chi-square test) were used. The results were presented as numbers and percentages. The data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 27. We received 123 responses. 87.8% and 85.4% linked epilepsy to insanity and spiritual possession/trance, respectively. More than 90% opined that epilepsy was contagious, due to patient or ancestral sins, and treatable by faith healers. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores (%) were found to be 78.04 ± 1.32, 71.23 ± 1.23, and 53.15 ± 1.38, respectively. Even though the urban population had satisfactory knowledge, the same was not translated into attitude and practice. There was a wide gap between knowledge, attitude, and practice. Considering the significant disparities in awareness, attitude, and practice even after decades in urban regions, policymakers and public health professionals must incorporate health education programs and healthcare services for the masses to bring about changes in a country like India. Keywords Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Stigma, Quality of life, People living with epilepsy

Keerthana Raghu,1,&ast; Tamilselvi S,2,&ast; Chitralekha S Devishamani,1 Suchetha M,2 Ramachandran Rajalakshmi,3 Rajiv Raman1 1Shri Bhagwan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India; 2Centre for Health Care Advancement, Innovation, and Research Department, Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India; 3Department of Diabetology, Ophthalmology and Epidemiology, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation & Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Rajiv Raman, Shri Bhagwan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Sankara Nethralaya (Main Campus), No. 41 (Old 18), College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600006, India, Tel +91-444288708, Fax +91-44-28254180, Email rajivpgraman@gmail.comPurpose: To evaluate the ability of an artificial intelligence (AI) model, ChatGPT, in predicting the diabetic retinopathy (DR) risk.Methods: This retrospective observational study utilized an anonymized dataset of 111 patients with diabetes who underwent a comprehensive eye examination along with clinical and biochemical assessments. Clinical and biochemical data along with and without central subfield thickness (CST) values of the macula from OCT were uploaded to ChatGPT-4, and the response from the ChatGPT was compared to the clinical DR diagnosis made by an ophthalmologist.Results: The study assessed the consistency of responses provided by ChatGPT, yielding an Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) value of 0.936 (95% CI, 0.913– 0.954, p < 0.001) (with CST) and 0.915 (95% CI, 0.706– 0.846, p < 0.001) (without CST), both situations indicated excellent reliability. The sensitivity and specificity of ChatGPT in predicting the DR cases were evaluated. The results revealed a sensitivity of 67% with CST and 73% without CST. The specificity was 68% with CST and 54% without CST. However, Cohen’s kappa revealed only a fair agreement between ChatGPT predictions and clinical DR status in both situations, with CST (kappa = 0.263, p = 0.005) and without CST (kappa = 0.351, p < 0.001).Conclusion: This study suggests that ChatGPT has the potential of a preliminary DR screening tool with further optimization needed for clinical use.Keywords: ChatGPT, artificial intelligence, diabetic retinopathy, diabetes

Background. Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) in the diagnosis of diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD) has shown a promising yield in recent times, with low post-procedural mortality and morbidity. Objectives. To compare the yield of TBLC and conventional transbronchial forceps lung biopsy (TBLB). Methods. A prospective study was carried out in patients with DPLD over a period of 1 year in a tertiary respiratory care institute in New Delhi, India. All 87 patients enrolled underwent both TBLB and TBLC. The procedures were performed in the bronchoscopy suite under conscious sedation and local anaesthesia, with an attempt to take a minimum of three biopsy specimens by conventional TBLB followed by TBLC. A 1.9 mm cryoprobe with a freezing time of 4 - 5 seconds was used. An Arndt endobronchial blocker was used to control bleeding along with locally administered medications. Results. TBLB and TBLC led to a definitive diagnosis in 27 (31.0%) and 69 (79.3%) cases, respectively. The commonest diagnoses were hypersensitivity pneumonitis, sarcoidosis and pulmonary tuberculosis. TBLC led to additional diagnoses in 42 cases (48.3%). Pneumothorax was observed in 12 cases (13.8%), and moderate bleeding occurred in 63 (72.4%). There were no procedure-related deaths. Conclusion. TBLC had a better diagnostic yield than conventional TBLB in DPLD. It has the potential to become a safe day-care procedure in a resource-limited setting, if certain precautions are taken.

Ice accretion on railway overhead contact wires/conductors can cause various critical operational and safety issues such as overloading, arc formation, mass imbalance, and wire galloping. The focus of this multiphase numerical study is to understand and analyze the ice accretion physics on railway overhead powerline conductors at various operating conditions. In this regard, two different geometric shape conductors of 12 mm diameter, 1) a grooved shape contact wire (like an actual railway conductor); 2) a standard circular shape contact wire are used. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) based numerical simulations are carried out for both geometric configurations at different operating parameters such as wind speed, Liquid Water Content (LWC), cloud droplet size distribution, Median Volume Diameter (MVD), and atmospheric temperature. Analysis shows that variation in the operating weather parameters for both geometric configurations considerably affects the ice accretion, both in terms of accreted ice thickness and mass.

Background. Obesity is now well recognised as a risk factor for severe COVID‐19, but the true prevalence of obesity in hospitalised adults with COVID‐19 remains unclear because formal body mass indices (BMIs) are not routinely measured on admission. Objectives. To describe the true prevalence of obesity measured by the BMI, and associated comorbidities, in patients hospitalised with severe COVID‐19, including people with HIV (PWH). Methods. We conducted a point‐prevalence study of measured BMI in consecutive patients with severe COVID‐19 admitted to the medical COVID‐19 wards in a tertiary academic hospital in Cape Town, South Africa (SA). Patients were enrolled over a 2‐week period during the peak of the first COVID‐19 wave in SA. Results. We were able to measure the BMI in 122 of the 146 patients admitted during the study period. The prevalence of HIV was 20% (n=24/122). Most of the participants were overweight or obese (n=104; 85%), and 84 (68.9%) met criteria for obesity. The mean (standard deviation) BMI was 33 (7.5), and 34.5 (9.1) in PWH. Of PWH, 83% (n=20/24) were overweight or obese and 75% (n=18) met criteria for obesity. Multimorbidity was present in 22 (92%) of PWH. Conclusion. We found that most patients, including PWH, met criteria for being overweight or obese. The high prevalence of obesity in PWH and severe COVID‐19 reinforces the need for targeted management of non‐communicable diseases, including obesity, in PWH.

BackgroundSleep is a vital requirement during pregnancy for the betterment of the fetus and the mother. Sleep quality could vary due to pregnancy-specific psychological and physiological changes. To introduce a tailored programme to enhance the sleep quality of mothers, it is paramount to assess the sleep quality and determinants of sleep. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the determinants of sleep quality among pregnant women in a selected institution in the Southern province of Sri Lanka.MethodsHospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out with 245 antenatal women, selected using a systematic random sampling method. A pretested self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data which contains four parts. Below variables were involved and both continuous and categorical data were collected as required. 'Maternal sleep quality, socio-demographic data and gestational age, maternal depression and anxiety.' Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25.0 for Windows by using descriptive statistics, Pearson's Chi-square test, and independent sample T-test (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis was used to find the relationship with sleep quality and other variables. P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant, at 95% CI.ResultsThe majority of women (60.8%) had good sleep quality and they didn't have either depressive symptoms (63.4%) or anxiety (64.2%). Aged between 34-41 years and third-trimester women had higher rates of poor sleep quality. Varying quality of sleep was identified among three-trimesters with subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, habitual sleep efficiency, and sleep disturbances. In comparison with the first and second trimester, pregnant women in the third trimester had higher score of global PSQI (5.22 ± 2.35), subjective sleep quality (1.23 ± 0.70), sleep latency (1.25 ± 0.86), habitual sleep efficiency (0.14 ± 0.43), and sleep disturbances (1.39 ± 0.58). There was a significant association between gestational age (P = .006), maternal age (P = .009), antenatal depression (P = .034), and anxiety (P = .013) with sleep quality. However, multinomial logistic regression revealed that only gestational age affected on quality of sleep. The first trimester was a protective factor for good quality sleep (Adjusted OR = 3.156) compared to the other two trimesters.ConclusionThis study revealed that the majority of women had good sleep quality but quality of sleep was deprived with gestational age. It is expected that the findings of this research will be helpful for health and social care policymakers when formulating guidelines and interventions regarding improving the quality of sleep among pregnant women in Sri Lanka.

Bedding materials play significant role to provide comfortable microenvironment to animals under intensive production system, which can be assessed by behaviour of the animal. The present study observed the effect of bedding material in different behaviour parameters of Osmanabadi goat kids. A total number of 18 Osmanabadi goat kids between 2-3 months of age were distributed into three groups (6 kids per group): control (T0) and treatments (T1, T2). The kids in T0 were reared in concrete floor without any bedding material, whereas treatment groups T1 and T2 were composed of wood shavings and straw bedding material, respectively. At the end of experiment lying time per day of T2 group was significantly higher as compared to T0 and T1 groups. Lying time per bout was significantly higher in T2 group than T0 group, but corresponding values were similar to that of T1 group. Standing time per day was higher in concrete floor (T0) as compared to wood shavings and straw bedding group. Fighting behaviour was significantly higher in kids kept in concrete floor and wood shavings group than those kept in straw bedding group. Grooming behaviour was higher in T2 group as compared to T0, but similar to T1 group and kids had more negative behaviour in concrete floor. Overall, it can be concluded that straw bedding has a positive influence on the welfare of growing kids and therefore can be used as an alternative bedding material in growing goat kids.

Keerthana Raghu,1,&ast; Tamilselvi S,2,&ast; Chitralekha S Devishamani,1 Suchetha M,2 Ramachandran Rajalakshmi,3 Rajiv Raman1 1Shri Bhagwan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India; 2Centre for Health Care Advancement, Innovation, and Research Department, Vellore Institute of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India; 3Department of Diabetology, Ophthalmology and Epidemiology, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation & Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Rajiv Raman, Shri Bhagwan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Email rajivpgraman@gmail.com

Background: Reduction and stabilisation of fractures at the earliest is valuable in the paediatric age groups. This novel technique focuses on stabilisation of the fracture fragments using vicryl, which has an added advantage to conventional plating and wiring. This study aimed on a novel cost-effective technique of stabilising the paediatric mandibular fracture using 2-0 resorbable polyglactin 910 suture with minimal trauma to tooth buds and bone and adequate stability. Technique: After raising a full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap, the fracture segments are identified and reduced. 1.6mm drill bit is used to make holes through the buccal cortex on either side of the fractured segment in an anteroposterior direction. The patency of holes is checked by passing a long 26-gauge wire. The proximal end of the wire is bent into a loop, a 2-0 resorbable polyglactin suture (vicryl) is passed through this loop and the loop is pressed in place to lock the suture. The wire with the attached suture is pulled through the distal end. Once the suture is secure in place, the 26G wire is cut, and the two ends of sutures are knotted and stabilised. The mucoperiosteal flap is then closed. Conclusion: A novel method of stabilisation of paediatric fracture without hampering the tooth and jaw growth, especially in the financially unstable population. 2–0 polyglactin 910 suture is cost-effective, $2 US, compared to resorbable plates costing about $150 US, and easily available. Polyglactin 910 takes 40–60 days for resorption, and half-life tensile strength is 2 weeks; thus, it gives adequate stability and time for callus formation and does not damage the tooth buds or bone by cutting through them.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is high value crop, also called as protective food due to its high nutritional and biochemical compounds. Correlation and path analysis was carried out for 147 tomato recombinant inbred line population. Correlation studies suggested that the association of fruit yield per plant was positive and significant with plant height (0.595), branches per plant (0.657), fruits per cluster (0.500), clusters per plant (0.717), average fruit weight (0.244) and fruits per plant (0.891). Path analysis revealed that among eleven characters studied only two characters viz., average fruit weight (0.415) and fruits per plant (0.817) showed very high positive and direct effect on yield per plant. This study helps to understand the mutual relationship among various traits thereby assist in selecting the character contributing to the yield.

Background. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic placed an unprecedented strain on intensive care units (ICUs) in South Africa. Infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies were highlighted to minimise the risk to healthcare workers and for the protection of patients from contracting hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). During the third wave, our institution adopted a shift system to address severe burnout among ICU personnel. We noted an upstroke in the occurrence of HAIs, specifically carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii. Objectives. To report these outbreaks, compare the rate of CRE and A. baumannii infections with the first COVID-19 wave and to analyse its impact on patient outcomes. Method. We retrospectively analysed data from a prospectively collected registry involving all adult patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to the dedicated COVID-19 ICU from May 2021 to September 2021. Information from the admission database, including the patients’ demographics, comorbidities, laboratory results and length of ICU stay were extracted. Results. Ninety patients were admitted with severe COVID-19 during the third wave. There was an outbreak of both CRE (the majority Klebsiella pneumoniae) and A. baumannii. Furthermore, 18 patients cultured the same CRE organism, and 25 patients cultured the environmental organism A. baumannii. The HAI rate was significantly higher compared with the first wave published data: 59/90 (65.6%) v. 73/363 (20.1%, p

Biotic stress, including insect pests and diseases, poses a significant constraint to the cultivation of food grain crops including wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) which is affected by several pests. Therefore, the present study was carried out during winter (rabi) seasons of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at the research farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to assess the yield loss due to multiple pests in a holistic manner with wheat variety HD 3086 (Pusa Gautami). Estimated avoidable yield loss due to higher aphid infestation and minimum disease incidences of Karnal bunt and black point disease during both the seasons (2020–21 and 2021–22) was 7.79% and 6.10%, respectively. Meanwhile, in treatment with a lower aphid infestation and minimum disease incidence of Karnal bunt and black point diseases, yield losses were 4.80% and 6.90% in 2020–21 and 2021–22, respectively. Incidences of the diseases were found to be minimal in both the seasons, thus the estimated avoidable losses attributed to aphids to a large extent.

Objectives: Historically, nonadherence to medication has been a major problem faced by health care workers while treating chronic illnesses. Nonadherence to psychotropic medications is known to be associated with poorer treatment outcomes, remarkable risk, and cost to the medical system in managing psychiatric illness. For care providers, partial compliance or discontinuation of medications represents the difficulty of maintaining treatment successes over time. In this study, we intended to assess medication adherence and to understand the reasons for nonadherence in patients with major psychiatric disorders in southern India. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study, done from January to June 2023. With the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision diagnosis, we assessed patients with psychotic disorders, bipolar affective disorders, and major depressive disorder. The Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS) was used to assess medication adherence. The patients also completed copies of semi-structured questionnaire on their sociodemographic characteristics, their medications, and reasons for nonadherence. Results: A total of 147 subjects were assessed. We found that 68.0% of subjects were poorly adherent to the treatment based on MARS, and that only 32.0% of them were strictly adherent to the treatment. The reasons for poor adherences to the medication treatment were carelessness or forgetfulness (21.8%), adverse effects of the medications (16.3%), and the perception of the subject of feeling better (15.6%). Conclusion: More than two thirds of the subjects was found to be non-adherent to the medications. Assessing various reasons for medication adherence will help find strategies to improve medication adherence and thus outcome of the treatment.

Background: In post-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients, the indices of repolarization on electrocardiogram (ECG) have shown promise for the prediction of death and malignant arrhythmias. In our study, we analyzed prospectively, in patients with STEMI undergoing reperfusion therapy, the acute effects of the reperfusion on the Tpeak-Tend (TpTe) and its predictive value for 30-day mortality, ventricular arrhythmias, and heart failure. Materials and Methods: We studied 75 STEMI patients aged 18–80 years admitted to Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, over 6 months. ECGs were taken before and 90 min after reperfusion. TpTe interval was measured before (pre-TpTe) and after reperfusion (post-TpTe). 24-h Holter monitoring was recorded within 72 h of reperfusion to look for any arrhythmias. Patients were followed up for a period of 30 days, and all the major adverse cardiac events (MACE) if any, were noted. Results: In the primary percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) group, the mean change in TpTe after intervention was 19.7 ± 16.7 ms, whereas in thrombolysis group, it was 10.7 ± 13.8; and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05), suggesting the superiority of primary PTCA compared to thrombolysis. When pre-TpTe interval was compared between who survived (69) and who succumbed (09), higher values were seen in patients who succumbed to death (115 ± 5.48) versus (88 ± 16.5) (P < 0.05). Pre-TpTe value of 105 had 100% sensitivity and 83% specificity in predicting mortality. Conclusion: Primary PTCA was superior to thrombolysis in reducing the TpTe interval and MACE events. The pre-TpTe interval could predict 30-day mortality and ventricular arrhythmias in the immediate and late period after revascularization in STEMI.

Leiomyomas are the most common benign smooth muscle neoplasm in the uterus occurring most commonly in women of reproductive age group. Leiomyomas commonly undergo secondary changes such as hyaline, cystic or myxoid degeneration, and very rarely ossification. Cartilage or bone formation in the uterine endometrium may be attributable to the differentiation of multipotent endometrial stromal fibroblasts into osteoblasts, either spontaneously or due to strong continuous endometrial estrogenic stimulation. There are very few reported cases of chondroid metaplasia in uterine leiomyomas. In this article, we describe a rare instance of pure cartilaginous metaplasia in a uterine fibroid in a woman with a history of several abortions. A 30-year-old woman with G3A3 obstetric score came with secondary infertility due to multiple uterine fibroids. The specimens from the laparoscopic adenomyomectomy were sent for histological analysis, which revealed many leiomyomas with chondroid metaplasia. Cartilaginous or chondroid metaplasia, although rare, may appear in a long-standing uterine leiomyoma and must be suspected in young females with a history of multiple abortions.

Goldenhar syndrome is a rare disorder that normally affects just one side and is distinguished by a variety of anomalies in internal organs, vertebrae, and craniofacial tissues. Although this sickness varies genetically and has been linked to a variety of factors, its etiology is unknown. We describe a case of hemifacial microsomia linked with Goldenhar syndrome that was clinically and radiographically investigated using cone-beam computed tomography. Several classical indications of the condition were present in the patient along with few uncommon ones. The many facets of this uncommon disease have been covered, with a focus on early detection and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Rationale: Post-COVID symptoms need aggressive evaluation. Patient’s Concern: A 29-year-old male patient who had suffered from COVID-19 eight weeks earlier, presented with an acute onset of breathlessness and right-sided chest pain due to pneumothorax. Emergency tube thoracostomy was performed. However, it failed to improve hypoxia. Diagnosis: High-resolution computed tomography of the thorax with computed tomography pulmonary angiography revealed pulmonary arterial thrombosis, ground-glass opacities, and bilateral pneumatoceles. Interventions: Hospital admission and treatment with low molecular weight heparin at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg every 24 h. Outcomes: The large pneumatocele showed significant resolution after three months of follow-ups. Lessons: Being increasingly reported after having a SARS-CoV-2 infection, pneumatocele formation, due to post-COVID lung scarring and late vascular thrombotic events, is a peculiar sequela and can present as acute dyspnoea. Long-term preventive anticoagulants after recovery from COVID-19 are necessary. Breathing exercises during recovery should be done with caution.

BACKGROUND: The overuse, underuse, or misuse of medicines by the postgraduate residents results in wastage of scarce resources and widespread health hazards. “Rational use of medicines” (RUMs) would bring health care within the reach of the poor by reducing costs. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of RUMs among the postgraduate residents of a tertiary care teaching hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 6 months (November 2019–April 2020). With the help of universal sampling, a self-developed, prevalidated, semi-structured questionnaire was distributed to 200 residents, to obtain information about the knowledge, attitude, and practice of RUM. Written informed consent was obtained from the participants after explaining to them about the study. RESULTS: About 92.5% of the participants were aware of the term “RUM” and 84% were aware of the term “Essential Medicines.” Sixty-one percent of the residents had good knowledge about RUM, and 51% had good practice of RUM. Logistic regression analysis showed statistically significant results that postgraduate students of the nonsurgical departments were more likely to have good knowledge and practice RUM than postgraduates of the surgical departments. Juniors (1st Year postgraduate residents) among the postgraduates also seemed to have an increased likelihood of practicing RUM. CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge gap and lack of good practice of RUM observed among the postgraduates can be reduced by imparting education regarding RUM more efficiently in the medical colleges, to inculcate it into daily clinical practice.

Aim: The present study aimed to assess the clinical outcome of root coverage following coronally advanced flap with or without amniotic membrane in Miller's class I or class II localized gingival recession in relation to anteriors. Methods: Five patients with bilaterally symmetrical Miller's class I or class II localized gingival recession were included in the study. Each patient was divided into control (without amniotic membrane) and test sites (with amniotic membrane) arbitrarily. Clinical parameters including plaque index, probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and depth and width of the gingival recession were recorded in a pro forma at baseline and in the 2nd, 4th, 12th week. The results were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: A 0.600-mm, 0.400-mm, 2.630-mm, and 2.616-mm reduction in PPD and gain in CAL were observed at control and test sites in the 12th week postoperatively and was found to be statistically insignificant (P = 0.580 and P = 0.871, respectively). Changes in depth and width of the gingival recession were observed and found to be maximum between base line (2.28 mm, 3.01 mm, 2.71, and 3.09 mm) and 2nd week (0.00, 0.00 mm, 0.23, and 0.20 mm) but without statistical significance. Conclusion: From the above results of the study, it could be concluded that the use of amniotic membrane as a barrier along with coronally advanced flap did not influence the clinical outcome of root coverage procedure.

Background: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is perceived as pain to any stimuli, affecting all individuals. Propolis and green tea are natural, nontoxic substances. The use of resinous propolis is effective in treating dentinal hypersensitivity, but green tea was unknown, even though it has medicinal properties. There is a lack of information on the application of varnish providing longer exposure than solutions and its efficacy in treating dentinal hypersensitivity. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate and compare the result of propolis varnish and green tea varnish on the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity by occlusion of dentinal tubules using scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging. Methods: Forty-five sound human posterior teeth freshly extracted were stored in formalin until in vitro assessment. Three groups of 15 discs each were divided out of 45 discs and coated with respective varnish such as Group A (saline, control), Group B (propolis varnish, experimental), and Group C (green tea varnish, experimental). All the discs were examined under SEM to observe the occlusion of the dentinal tubules. Results: Statistically significant analysis of Group B and Group C showed more tubule occlusion as compared to control Group A where P = 0.05. Conclusions: Based on our study, the dentinal tubule can be occluded to prevent tooth hypersensitivity by applying varnish with natural products such as propolis and green tea. In addition, propolis varnish and green tea varnish have low toxicity and multiple biological activities that strengthen their application in health care, which is useful and effective in treating DH.

Introduction: Genetic polymorphisms of genes regulating amelogenesis can alter susceptibility to Early Childhood Caries (ECC). This systematic review aims to analyze associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms of enamel formation genes and ECC. Methods: Search was conducted across PUBMED, CINAHL, LILACS, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Web of Science, Genome-Wide Association Studies databases from January 2003 to September 2022. This was supplemented by hand search. Totally 7124 articles were identified and 21 articles that satisfied the inclusion criteria proceeded to data extraction. Quality assessment was done using the Q-Genie tool. Results: Quantitative synthesis revealed that homozygous genotype AA of rs12640848 was significantly higher in children with ECC with an odds ratio of 2.36. Gene-based analysis revealed significant association between six variants of AMBN, four variants of KLK4, two variants of MMP20, and a single variant of each of MMP9 and MMP13 genes and ECC. The Bonferroni corrected-log10 P value of amelogenesis gene Cluster was 2.25 (0.05/88 = 5.6 × 10−4). Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes and Proteins plot constructed to comprehend the protein-protein interaction revealed the presence of four functional clusters. Gene function prediction using Multiple Association Network Integration Algorithm revealed that physical interaction between these genes was 69.3%. Conclusion: Polymorphisms of genes regulating amelogenesis can influence the susceptibility to ECC. AA genotype of rs12640848 may increase the susceptibility to ECC. Gene-based analysis revealed a significant association between multiple polymorphisms of genes regulating amelogenesis and ECC.

Background: Early hospital presentation is critical in the management of acute ischemic stroke. The effectiveness of stroke treatment is highly dependent on the amount of time lapsed between onset of symptoms and treatment. This study was aimed to identify the factors associated with prehospital delay in patients with acute stroke. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Sri Ramachandra University Hospital, India. A total of 210 patients hospitalized in the stroke unit were included. Patients' data were obtained by interviewing the patient and/or accompanying family member and by reviewing their medical records using a standard questionnaire. Associations were determined between prehospital delay (≥4.5 h) and variables of interest by using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: The prehospital delay was observed in 154 patients (73.3%) and the median prehospital delay was 11.30 h. The following are the factors significantly (P < 0.05) attributed for the delay in presenting to the hospital: contextual factors like using public transport (bus), taxi, time of onset of symptoms, 7 pm–3 am; family history of stroke, perceived cognitive and behavioral factors like, wishing or praying for the symptoms to subside on its own, hesitation to travel due to long distance, delay in arranging transport, and arranging money for admission and wasting time by shopping for general practitioners, nursing homes, and hospitals. The presence of stroke symptom, headache, significantly decreased the prehospital delay. Conclusions: Prehospital delay is high in South India and influenced by clinical, contextual, and cognitive/behavioral factors.

Introduction: There are limited data available on the long-term presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific binding antibodies and neutralizing antibodies in circulation among the elderly population. This study aims to examine levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in vaccines who have completed at least 6 months since the second vaccine dose. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to January 2022 among 199 vaccines aged 60 years and above residing in Belagavi city, who received two doses of the Covishield vaccine. Methods: Antibody response to SARS-COV-2 virus whole cell antigen was measured by a kit COVID KAWACH IgG Micro LISA (J Mitra and Company, India) in 199 participants who had completed at least 6 months after receiving the second dose of Covishield vaccine. The antibody response was measured as a ratio of optical density (OD) in the participant's sample to the mean OD in negative control test by normal (T/N). Independent Kruskal–Wallis test was applied to test the difference between the T/N ratio by months of vaccination since the second dose and by the age group strata. Results: The median T/N values among participants who completed 6, 7, 8, and 9 months since the second vaccine dose were 14.17, 10.46, 7.93, and 5.11, respectively, and this decline in T/N values was statistically significant. Antibody response values showed a decline with increasing age for participants in the age strata 60–69, 70–79, and 80 and above, respectively. Conclusions: A significant decline was observed in antibody response over 9 months supporting the administration of booster dose of vaccine.

Purpose: In view of the raising rate of adverse birth outcomes (ABOs) across the globe, this study was conducted to assess the impact of medical conditions and medications received during pregnancy on ABOs. Materials and Methods: A prospective case–control study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of a tertiary care hospital over a period of 3 years from July 2015 to June 2018. Liveborn and stillborn neonates included in the study were categorized into cases and controls based on the presence or absence of composite ABOs, respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors for ABOs among medical conditions and medications received by mothers during their current pregnancy. Results: Among 1214 neonates included in the study, 556 (45.8%) were identified with composite ABOs, the majority were low birth weight (320 [26.4%]) and preterm birth 300 (24.7%). After adjusting for confounding factors, it was identified that hypertension (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 7.3), oligohydramnios (aOR 3.9), anemia (aOR 3.2), nifedipine (aOR 10.0), nicardipine (aOR 5.3), and magnesium sulfate (aOR 5.3) were the risk factors for overall and specific ABOs like preterm birth and low birth weight. It was also identified that the early detection and management of hypertension with antihypertensives like labetalol and methyldopa can reduce the risk of preterm birth by 93% and 88%, respectively. Conclusion: Medical conditions such as hypertension, oligohydramnios, and anemia and medications such as nifedipine, nicardipine, and magnesium sulfate during pregnancy were identified as the risk factors for overall and specific ABOs like preterm birth and low birth weight.

Sreejisha M,1 Shalini Shenoy Mulki,1 Suchitra Shenoy,1 Biranthabail Dhanashree,1 Chakrapani M,2 Gopalakrishna Bhat1 1Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, 575001, India; 2Department of Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, 575001, IndiaCorrespondence: Gopalakrishna Bhat, Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, India, Tel +91 9480424729, Email gkbhat999@gmail.comPurpose: To study the infections caused by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with emphasis on heterogeneous vancomycin intermediate S. aureus (hVISA) in diabetic and non-diabetic patients and their comparison.Patients and Methods: S. aureus strains isolated from diabetic and non-diabetic patients admitted in four tertiary care hospitals in Coastal Karnataka, South India, were tested for methicillin resistance and included in the present study. Demographic and clinical data of the patients were collected using structured proforma. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, and MLSB phenotypes were identified using the D-test. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin was determined using agar dilution. MRSA isolates were tested for hVISA using vancomycin screen agar and population analysis profile – area under the curve (PAP-AUC) test. Statistical analysis of the results was done using the chi-square test. SPSS version 29.0 was used for this purpose.Results: Out of 665 strains of S. aureus isolated, 220 (33.1%) were MRSA. Of these 220 MRSA strains, 122 (55.5%) and 98 (44.5%) were isolated from diabetic and non-diabetic patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in the antimicrobial resistance patterns of MRSA strains isolated from diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Foot infections and osteomyelitis caused by MRSA were significantly more among diabetic patients. Out of 220 strains of MRSA, 14 (6.4%) were hVISA. The rates of hVISA among MRSA isolated from diabetic and non-diabetic were 9.0% and 3.1%, respectively. This difference was statistically not significant.Conclusion: The rate of hVISA among all MRSA isolates was 6.4%. The risk of hVISA infection was three times more in diabetic patients. The results emphasize the importance of the detection of hVISA among MRSA isolates especially from diabetic patients.Keywords: methicillin-resistant S. aureus, diabetes mellitus, antimicrobial resistance, heterogeneous vancomycin intermediate S. aureus

This study aims to determine the types of errors students face when solving math problems. First, review the error types based on Watson's criteria and student learning styles. This study uses an explanatory sequential design model. Data analysis techniques include Quantitative data analysis techniques, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. At the same time, the qualitative data analysis techniques include; data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results showed that the errors based on Watson's criteria and learning styles obtained were based on student responses, including; Inappropriate Data 40%, Omitted Conclusion 20%, Response Level Conflict 40%, and Above Other 40%. Furthermore, the types of errors obtained in classroom learning include Inappropriate Data 25%, Omitted Conclusion 50%, and Skill Hierarchy Problems 25%. In the visual learning pattern, there are five error classes: Inappropriate Data 9%, Omitted Conclusion 55%, Response Level Conflict 18%, Skill Hierarchy Problem 27%, and Above Other 18%. Several factors influence the error, including; the decline in students' motivation, interest, and thinking skills. Efforts can be made to minimize student errors, including increasing practice on story questions and eliminating students' negative mindset towards learning mathematics

This study delves into the intricate dynamics of ligand engineering for the synthesis of Methyl Ammonium Lead Bromide (MAPbBr _3 ) nanocrystals (NCs), which exhibit immense potential in optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications. Our focus centres on the role of the quaternary ammonium molecule CTAB as a ligand in stabilizing MAPbBr _3 NCs. This also addresses the challenges related to the stability and surface defects of NCs that hinder their commercial viability. Employing a modified ligand-assisted reprecipitation technique (LARP) with a dual solvent system, we optimized the CTAB concentration to 0.05 mmol, resulting in MAPbBr _3 NCs with an impressive 88% quantum yield. XPS and FTIR analyses confirm the presence and binding of CTAB on the NC surface. The MAPbBr _3 -CTAB NCs exhibit higher exciton–phonon binding energy, enhancing their optical properties. Despite an unfavourable geometric fit, CTAB is effective in surface defect passivation due to its binding, solvation, and desorption energy during the dynamic binding process. 2D-DOSY NMR reveals approximately 66% CTAB bound to the NC surface. A comparative study involving MAPbBr _3 -OA, OLA, and MAPbBr _3 -CTAB deposited on LEDs demonstrates the superior performance of the latter, achieving a luminous efficiency of 42.18 lm W ^−1 at 1.2 ml deposition. These findings highlight the efficacy of CTAB in achieving high-purity green luminescence, aligning with BT.2020 display colour standards and paving the way for advanced optoelectronic applications. The successful synthesis and improved performance of MAPbBr _3 -CTAB NCs underscore their potential as a promising material for future optoelectronic and photovoltaic technologies.

There is a plethora of literature that suggests that a failure by a medical practitioner to obtain informed consent from a patient amounts to assault. Assault is a loaded concept in South African (SA) law, and has applicability to both criminal and civil law. When one thinks of the term ‘assault’, it is normally associated with a criminal activity. It is well documented that a civil case can be levelled against a medical practitioner who fails to obtain informed consent from a patient. However, the criminal law aspect has not been explored in the same level of detail. This article aims to delve deeper into this aspect by outlining the requirements for assault as defined by the SA common law, and to evaluate whether a criminal offence has actually been committed by a medical practitioner in the event that proper informed consent was not obtained.

Indian cattle genetic resources constitute an important global gene pool. A majority of these (59.3%) are still not characterized. Identifying unique populations can ensure their inclusion in national policies of improvement and conservation. The present research describes the uniqueness of three lesser-known cattle populations (Jhari, Kamma, and Vandharvi) of Deccan Plateau region of India. These are known for draught power but are on the decline due to changing socio-agricultural scenario. Comprehensive genetic diversity and differentiation analyses using 25 FAOrecommended microsatellite markers identified high variability in all three populations with mean allelic diversity (Na) ranging between 9.32-9.80. Similarly, high genetic variability was recorded in all three populations (Ho=0.67 to 0.71). Random mating in the populations was indicated by the small positive F value. A low but significant genetic differentiation, pairwise Nei’s genetic distance, phylogenetic relationship, and genetic assignment substantiated their separate genetic identity. The phylogenetic analysis reflected the closeness of Vandharvi and Kamma populations. Substantial gene flow was evidenced by the effective number of migrants per generation (Nm=16.31±2.69 >1). Bayesian-based clustering indicated the germplasm exchange between Vandharvi and Kamma, whereas, Jhari comes out to be a separate gene pool. None of these have suffered demographic bottlenecks in the recent past. Findings arevaluable for the scientific management, recognition, and conservation of the three populations that contribute to the livelihood, and economic sustainability of agro-pastoral communities.

There is a growing interest among the farmers of the state to take an additional crop, i.e. summer mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) in the window period of rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system with a little emphasis on the water productivity of summer mungbean. The present study was aimed to assess the water productivity of summer mungbean under differential irrigation regimes, tillage and mulch in sandy loam and loamy sand soils. A field experiment was conducted during the summer 2021 and 2022 with three irrigation regimes (based on irrigation water to PAN-E ratio of 0.75 (I0.75), 0.50 (I0.50), 0.25 (I0.25) in sandy loam and 0.8 (I0.8), 0.6 (I0.6) and 0.4 (I0.4) in loamy sand soils, two tillage systems, viz. deep tillage and conventional tillage; and two mulch rates (no mulch and application of rice straw mulch @6 t/ha). Irrigation regime, I0.75 and I0.8 resulted in higher crop biomass, however the seed yield and water productivity were highest under I0.50 and I0.6. Deep tillage with mulch resulted in higher seed yield and water productivity in comparison to conventional tillage with no mulch. Medium irrigated regime (I0.50 and I0.6) coupled with deep tillage and rice straw mulch was found to be effective in improving the seed yield of mung bean in loamy sand soils in north-west India.