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Abstract Background Variations in the TSHR gene have been implicated in a spectrum of thyroid diseases. Previous studies have implicated variations in the TSHR gene, including SNPs rs179247, rs12101255, and rs2268458, in thyroid diseases, but their association with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in the Indian population has not been investigated. Aim In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between candidate SNP rs2268458 and susceptibility to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in the Indian population. We carried out a case–control genetic screening of the TSHR gene. Methods We analyzed the variant of the TSHR gene using the PCR–RFLP technique in a total of 318 participants, including 130 controls and 188 individuals with thyroid disorders (124 hypothyroid and 64 hyperthyroid). Demographic information was collected, and biochemical parameters were assessed using enzymatic methods. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-23. Results The SNP rs2268458 demonstrated a significant association with hypothyroid and hyperthyroid patients (p-value

Objective: Lipids play key role in coronary atherosclerosis. The role of non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) in atherosclerotic plaques using intravascular imaging remains unclear. This study aimed to assess its relationship with coronary plaque features using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: A total of 601 patients divided into two groups: normal non-HDL-C≤130 mg/dl (n = 410) and high non-HDL cholesterol >130 mg/dl (n = 191). IVUS performed before coronary intervention. Results: Mean age 53.18 ± 12.29 years. No significant differences in hypertension, diabetes, and smoking between groups. Plaque burden was significantly higher among normal versus high non-HDL-C groups (79.59 ± 9.98 % vs. 81.61 ± 5.39 %; p = 0.001). At minimal luminal site, fibrofatty percentage was higher in normal non-HDL-C group (p = 0.027), while necrotic core greater in high non-HDL-C group (p = 0.033). Segmental analysis, necrotic core was significantly higher in percentage (p = 0.006) and volumes (p = 0.011) in normal versus high non-HDL-C groups. Total cholesterol (r = 0.099, p = 0.015), LDL-C (r = 0.081, p = 0.046), triglycerides (r = 0.083, p = 0.041),and non-HDL-C (r = 0.099, p = 0.015) positively correlated with plaque burden. Total cholesterol (r = 0.115, p = 0.005), LDL-C (r = 0.107, p = 0.009), and non-HDL-C (r = 0.105, p = 0.010) positively correlated with necrotic core volume. Linear regression analysis showed age and non-HDL-C as predictors of higher plaque burden. Multiple linear regression analysis; age, body mass index, and non-HDL-C were predictors of larger necrotic core volume. Conclusion: Non-HDL-C levels were positively associated with plaque burden, measure of extent of atherosclerosis. It is closely associated with and is a predictor of necrotic core volume; a marker of plaque vulnerability. This IVUS study demonstrates potential role of non-HDL-C in causation of plaque in ACS.

Objective: Air-Q intubating laryngeal airway (ILA) is associated with a 58-77% success rate in blind intubation. The newer laryngeal mask airway (LMA) blockbuster is specially designed to facilitate easier endotracheal intubation and may have a higher success rate. The current study aimed to compare the success rate of endotracheal intubation using the Air-Q ILA and LMA blockbuster. Methods: After ethics committee approval and informed written consent, 140 adult patients with normal airways who were scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia requiring endotracheal intubation were recruited for this randomized controlled trial. Blind endotracheal intubation was performed using the Air-Q ILA in group A and the LMA blockbuster in group B with special maneuvers and/or tubes in the second attempt. Fibreoptic bronchoscope (FOB) guidance was used in the third attempt if required. The primary outcome was the success rate of intubation without FOB assistance. The number of attempts for supraglottic airway (SGA) insertion, the time taken for SGA insertion, and the overall intubation time was also noted. Results: The success rate of intubation without FOB guidance was significantly higher in group B than in group A [91.4% vs 55.7%; relative risk (RR) 1.68; (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34, 2.11); p

Consumption of garlic leads to the persistence of “garlic breath” due to the presence of malodorous sulfur volatiles which may persist for as long as 24 h. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of yogurt and its components on the deodorization of garlic sulfur volatiles in breath and study the roles of these components in deodorization. Raw garlic was consumed with different treatments and at different times for breath analysis. Different components were mixed with the garlic for headspace analysis. Volatiles were measured using selected-ion flow-tube mass spectrometry. Consuming yogurt at the same time as garlic was more effective than consuming it before or after. Yogurt was the most effective at deodorization, followed by the emulsion, then protein or fat alone. Decreasing the pH of protein solutions increased deodorization because changes to the structure of the proteins exposed more binding sites for the volatiles, while decreasing the pH of water or fat had no effect on deodorization. Whey protein deodorized better than casein due to the presence of more cysteine binding sites for volatiles. This study proposes that the fat, protein, microbial culture, and water in yogurt have synergistic effects on the deodorization of garlic volatiles. This study’s findings can help in the development of novel products targeting sulfur volatiles, with broad applications for mitigating malodors produced by garlic.

IntroductionThe differential effects of probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic formulations on human health are dictated by the inter-individual gut microbial profile. The effects of probiotics such as Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (ECN) on gut microbiota may vary according to the microbiome profiles of individuals and may be influenced by the presence of certain carbohydrates, which can impact microbial community structure and treatment results.MethodProcessed fecal samples from donors having contrasting lifestyles, dietary patterns, and disease histories were mixed with 5 × 106 CFU/mL ECN with or without 1% (w/v) sugars (glucose, galactose, or rice starch) in a host-free system. Post-incubation, 16 s rRNA sequencing was performed. Microbial diversity and taxonomic abundance were computed in relation to the probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic treatment effects and interpersonal microbiome variance.ResultBaseline gut microbial profiles showed significant inter-individual variations. ECN treatment alone had a limited impact on the inter-personal gut microbial diversity and abundance. Prebiotics caused a substantial enrichment in Actinobacteria, but there were differences in the responses at the order and genus levels, with enrichment shown in Bifidobacterium, Collinsella, and Megasphaera. Subject B exhibited enrichment in Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria, but subject A showed more diversified taxonomic alterations as a consequence of the synbiotic treatments. Despite negligible difference in the α-diversity, probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic treatments independently resulted in distinct segregation in microbial communities at the β-diversity level. The core microbiota was altered only under prebiotic and synbiotic treatment. Significant correlations primarily for minor phyla were identified under prebiotic and synbiotic treatment.ConclusionThe interindividual microbiome composition strongly influences the effectiveness of personalized diet and treatment plans. The responsiveness to dietary strategies varies according to individual microbiome profiles influenced by health, diet, and lifestyle. Therefore, tailored approaches that consider individual microbiome compositions are crucial for maximizing gut health and treatment results.

Background: Trace metal deficiency has become a major constraint on the productivity and sustainability of soils. Agriculture becomes more complex, advanced and intensive farming systems develop, however, the deficiency of trace metal are more frequent and extensive in different systems. Methods: This study investigated the variation of trace metal minerals in soil profiles of diverse land use systems (LUSs), i.e. agriculture, horticulture and forestry, falling under three dominant soil orders (Entisol, Inceptisol and Aridisol) in Malwa region of Punjab. Through comprehensive analyses, we explore the intricate relationships between soil characteristics, land use practices, and the distribution of key trace metals—namely zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). Results: The mean values of DTPA-extractable trace metal from soil profiles of different land uses varied from 1.75 to 2.09, 1.64–2.32, 1.18–1.69 mg kg−1 for Zn; 0.59–1.02, 0.59–0.99, 0.64–0.92 mg kg−1 for Cu; 12.12–16.49, 9.84–16.05, 7.94–11.56 mg kg−1 for Fe; 7.82–9.99, 4.66–9.39, 6.51–7.46 mg kg−1for Mn in soil orders Entisol, Inceptisol and Aridisol, respectively. The concentration of trace metals in different soil orders follows the pattern of ntisol>Inceptisol>Aridisol. In contrast, there is a considerable amount of variation and no discernible pattern in the distribution of trace metals under various LUSs in each soil order. Several LUSs were examined, and agriculture land use system (ALUS) had the greatest Fe and Mn content, while the horticulture land use system (HLUS) had the highest Zn and Cu content. The Irrespective of soil orders and LUSs, the concentration of trace metals decreased as soil depth increased. Diverse LUSs and management practices have a substantial impact on the physico-chemical characteristics of soils, which in turn influence the availability of trace metals. According to the Pearson correlation studies, trace metals were positively associated with soil OC and negatively associated with soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and there was also a positive correlation between DTPA-Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn in the investigated soils. The results of the principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that soil CaCO3 and organic carbon (OC) content were the most variable soil parameters influencing crop trace metal availability in different soil orders and land use systems. Conclusion: The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the dynamic interplay between soil properties and land use, providing valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices and environmental management in the region.

Purpose: To study the outcomes of balloon dacryoplasty (BD) or (BDCP) in children with persistent congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (pCNLDO) by using new and reused balloon catheters. Methods: Our retrospective analysis focused on managing pCNLDO by using the BD or BDCP technique. The study included children aged >1 year to

Spirulina is a well-known food supplement renowned for its high protein content, bioactive compounds, and enzymes that are pivotal in its metabolic processes. This study explores the potential of Spirulina as a sustainable alternative to animal rennet, proposing it as a vegetarian functional ingredient in cheddar-type cheese production. The research utilized response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the incorporation of lyophilized Spirulina biomass, focusing on maximizing protein content and antioxidant potential. The optimized process resulted in cheese yields ranging from 1.96 % to 6.01 % and protein contents between 14.29 % and 39.21 %. We identified and standardized conditions for achieving these optimal outcomes. Analysis of milk clotting activity (MCA) and proteolytic activity (PA) showed pH and temperature-dependent variations, with traditional rennet and acetic acid cheeses demonstrating superior MCA. In contrast, Spirulina-enriched cheeses exhibited enhanced antioxidant activity (20.69 % to 37.66 %), improved protein retention, and lower fat content, attributed to its inherent bioactive compounds. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy provided insights into the molecular composition and structural changes during storage, highlighting the distinctive properties of Spirulina-derived cheese. This study underscores the viability of integrating Spirulina biomass into cheese production, offering a pathway to create nutritious, antioxidant-rich products with elevated protein content and functional benefits.

The genus Talbotia Bernardi, 1958 is a member of the subfamily Pierinae within the family Pieridae. It consists of a single species, Talbotia naganum (Moore, 1884), commonly known as Naga White, which is a highly uncommon species in India. In order to examine its morphological characteristics, including its genital attributes, a male specimen of Talbotia naganum (Moore) was analyzed from the collections held at the National Museum of Lepidoptera, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata. The various male genital attributes of this species have been thoroughly studied, illustrated, and compared in detail for the first time with the commonly found pierid butterfly P. brassicae (Linnaeus).

Families of individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities or differences (NDDs) often struggle to find reliable health information on the web. NDDs encompass various conditions affecting up to 14% of children in high-income countries, and most individuals present with complex phenotypes and related conditions. It is challenging for their families to develop literacy solely by searching information on the internet. While in-person coaching can enhance care, it is only available to a minority of those with NDDs. Chatbots, or computer programs that simulate conversation, have emerged in the commercial sector as useful tools for answering questions, but their use in health care remains limited. To address this challenge, the researchers developed a chatbot named CAMI (Coaching Assistant for Medical/Health Information) that can provide information about trusted resources covering core knowledge and services relevant to families of individuals with NDDs. The chatbot was developed, in collaboration with individuals with lived experience, to provide information about trusted resources covering core knowledge and services that may be of interest. The developers used the Django framework (Django Software Foundation) for the development and used a knowledge graph to depict the key entities in NDDs and their relationships to allow the chatbot to suggest web resources that may be related to the user queries. To identify NDD domain–specific entities from user input, a combination of standard sources (the Unified Medical Language System) and other entities were used which were identified by health professionals as well as collaborators. Although most entities were identified in the text, some were not captured in the system and therefore went undetected. Nonetheless, the chatbot was able to provide resources addressing most user queries related to NDDs. The researchers found that enriching the vocabulary with synonyms and lay language terms for specific subdomains enhanced entity detection. By using a data set of numerous individuals with NDDs, the researchers developed a knowledge graph that established meaningful connections between entities, allowing the chatbot to present related symptoms, diagnoses, and resources. To the researchers’ knowledge, CAMI is the first chatbot to provide resources related to NDDs. Our work highlighted the importance of engaging end users to supplement standard generic ontologies to named entities for language recognition. It also demonstrates that complex medical and health-related information can be integrated using knowledge graphs and leveraging existing large datasets. This has multiple implications: generalizability to other health domains as well as reducing the need for experts and optimizing their input while keeping health care professionals in the loop. The researchers' work also shows how health and computer science domains need to collaborate to achieve the granularity needed to make chatbots truly useful and impactful.

In the current study, extracellular lipase production from thermotolerant Bacillus subtilis TTP-06, which was isolated from Tattapani Hot Spring in Himachal Pradesh, India, was optimized using response surface approach. The interactions of six different parameters, including glucose and peptone concentrations, pH, temperature, incubation duration, and olive oil concentration, were examined using the Plackett-Burman Design (PBD). Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to establish the best values for the positive factors. The importance of the quadratic model with a determination coefficient (R2) value of 0.7846 was revealed by statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) results with a p-value of

Abstract Resection and whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) are standard treatments for brain metastases (BM) but are associated with cognitive side effects. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) uses a targeted approach with less side effects than WBRT. SRS requires precise identification and delineation of BM. While artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have been developed for this, their clinical adoption is limited due to poor model performance in the clinical setting. The limitations of algorithms are often due to the quality of datasets used for training the AI network. The purpose of this study was to create a large, heterogenous, annotated BM dataset for training and validation of AI models. We present a BM dataset of 200 patients with pretreatment T1, T1 post-contrast, T2, and FLAIR MR images. The dataset includes contrast-enhancing and necrotic 3D segmentations on T1 post-contrast and peritumoral edema 3D segmentations on FLAIR. Our dataset contains 975 contrast-enhancing lesions, many of which are sub centimeter, along with clinical and imaging information. We used a streamlined approach to database-building through a PACS-integrated segmentation workflow.

Abstract A transparent polarisation-sensitive phase pattern changes the phase of transmitted light without absorption, whereas this change of phase depends on the polarisation of incident light. A position-localised polarisation-dependent phase pattern is imprinted onto the phase-space of atoms by using atomic state dependent velocity-selective hole burning. A phase-space localised pattern is a higher dimensional generalisation of patterns localised in the position-space. Such a pattern cannot be imaged with a lens. The imprinted pattern is localised in a unique three-dimensional subspace of the six-dimensional phase-space of atoms. The phase-space localised pattern transforms the polarisation of light transmitting through it. This pattern is tomographically imaged at room temperature by measuring the intensity of the transmitted imaging laser beam of variable frequency with a camera after its polarisation analysis. Two sub-tomographs of the imprinted phase-space localised pattern are constructed. This paper presents a concept and experiment of imprinting and imaging of a polarisation-sensitive phase pattern localised in the phase-space.

Simulation refers to the replication of various elements of a real-world situation to achieve pre-specified objectives by enabling experiential learning. As the global burden of preventable medical errors remains high, simulation-based teaching may be used to standardise medical training and improve patient safety. With the same intent, the National Medical Commission has adopted simulation as part of the Competency Based Medical Education approach. Simulation-based training creates immersive and experiential learning, which keeps the new generation of learners actively involved in the learning process. Simulation is widely used to impart technical and non-technical skills for postgraduate trainees in anaesthesiology, but it is still not integrated as a structured part of the curriculum. This article aims to identify technical and non-technical skills that can be taught using simulation and suggests opportunities for using the existing infrastructure and resources to integrate simulation as part of the anaesthesiology training curriculum.

Urinary biomarkers are a promising diagnostic modality whose role was explored in nephrotic syndrome (NS). We estimated urinary apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in children with first-episode NS (FENS) and controls with a longitudinal follow-up to see the serial changes during remission. The study groups comprised 35 children with FENS and an equal number of age- and sex-matched controls. Patients were followed up at regular intervals, and 32 patients were classified as having steroid-sensitive NS (SSNS) and 3 as having steroid-resistant NS (SRNS). The mean follow-up period was 8.7 ± 4.2 months. Three patients in the SSNS group were labeled as having frequent relapses or steroid-dependent disease during follow-up. Of the three children with SRNS, two had minimal changes in the disease and one had idiopathic membranous nephropathy. The levels of Apo A1:creatinine, NGAL:creatinine, and spot urinary protein:urinary creatinine ratios were significantly higher in children with FENS compared with controls. The levels of the urine biomarkers decreased significantly at subsequent follow-up with remission. The Apo A1 and NGAL levels in SSNS patients were significantly high compared with both the controls and FENS patients. Urinary Apo A1 levels in SRNS patients were lower at initial presentation. This longitudinal study revealed changes in the urinary Apo A1 and NGAL in NS over the course of the disease.

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Cattle contribute to the nutritional needs and economy of a place. The performance and fitness of cattle depend on the response and adaptation to local climatic conditions. Genomic and genetic studies are important for advancing cattle breeding, and availability of relevant reference genomes is essential. In the present study, the genome of a Vechur calf was sequenced on both short-read Illumina and long-read Nanopore sequencing platforms. The hybrid de novo assembly approach was deployed to obtain an average contig length of 1.97 Mbp and an N50 of 4.94 Mbp. By using a short-read genome sequence of the corresponding sire and dam, a haplotype-resolved genome was also assembled. In comparison to the taurine reference genome, we found 28,982 autosomal structural variants and 16,926,990 SNVs, with 883,544 SNVs homozygous in the trio samples. Many of these SNPs have been reported to be associated with various QTLs including growth, milk yield, and milk fat content, which are crucial determinants of cattle production. Furthermore, population genotype data analysis indicated that the present sample belongs to an Indian cattle breed forming a unique cluster of Bos indicus. Subsequent FST analysis revealed differentiation of the Vechur cattle genome at multiple loci, especially those regions related to whole body growth and cell division, especially IGF1, HMGA2, RRM2, and CD68 loci, suggesting a possible role of these genes in its small stature and better disease resistance capabilities in comparison with the local crossbreeds. This provides an opportunity to select and engineer cattle breeds optimized for local conditions.

The yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) - Inconel 625 (IN625) composite cladding was deposited on a stainless steel substrate using a tungsten inert gas welding manipulator to protect it from solid particle erosion. Erosion wear tests were carried out at room temperature according to the ASTM G76-18 procedure. The surface of the tested material was exposed to a jet of alumina erodent particles at impact angles of 30 and 90°, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy images were utilized to examine the morphologies of the eroded surface and the microstructure of cladding. The erosive performance of YSZ - IN625 composite cladding was 3.5 and 2.4 times compared to the substrate at different impact angles. Improved microhardness and fracture toughness resulting from the favourable interaction between the hard ceramic YSZ particles and the IN625 matrix led to the enhanced erosion performance of composite cladding. Micro-cutting and ploughing were the predominant wear mechanisms in the substrate during the solid particle erosion test at a 30° impact angle, whereas the indentation-induced plastic deformation was domi­nant at a 90° impact angle. The results also revealed that the micro-cutting, detached splats and fissures were responsible for the wear in composite cladding at 30 and 90° impact angles.

Objective: This research assessed the efficiencies of aloe vera, 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide, and 5% amlexanox in the management of OLP. Materials and Methods: A total of 120 participants diagnosed with oral lichen planus (OLP) were equally divided into three groups and treated with: aloe vera, (Group A), 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide (Group B), and 5% amlexanox (Group C) topical medicaments. The patients were evaluated for pain, using the visual analogue scale (VAS). They were also evaluated for ulcerative lesion type and erosive area on days 1, 7, and 15 of the study. Results: There was a statistically considerable decrease in the VAS pain scale score, reduction in the erosive area on buccal mucosa, and healing of ulcer from day 1st to 15th day with all three tested drugs. Conclusion: All drugs used in this study; aloe vera, triamcinolone acetonide, and amlexanox were effective in treating OLP patients.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of ZOE-based, calcium hydroxide, and epoxy resin-based sealers on modification with three herbal extracts. Materials and Methods: Methanolic extracts of selected herbs were combined with ZOE-based, calcium hydroxide, and epoxy resin-based sealers. Cultures were prepared from E. faecalis and C. albicans and agar plates prepared. Prepared mixtures were inoculated in punched holes, and inhibitory zones were measured. Results: No statistical significance was obtained on comparing mean scores of test groups. Conclusion: None of the combinations used was found to be significantly better than others.

Introduction: Numerous manufacturers have improved bracket retention systems as a result of the frequent bond failure that occurs during orthodontic treatment. One of the elements affecting the adhesive's bond strength is the bracket retention mechanism. Objectives: This study's objective was to assess how various bracket base retention characters affected shear bond strength. Materials and Methods: Four distinct base features for brackets were evaluated. The basic design was examined using a scanning electron microscope. On the Universal testing equipment, brackets were glued to human teeth and then released. Results: The findings indicate that the polymer-coated base's overall mean SBS, which had a mean value of 21.64 ± 4.14 MPa, was considerably greater than that of the other brackets (P 0.05). The foil meshpad, photochemically etched base, and laser-structured base had mean SBS values of 15.12 ± 5.75 MPa, 16.86 ± 3.76 MPa, and 19.32 ± 4.23MPa, respectively. Conclusions: Following laser-structured base and photochemically etched base brackets in terms of shear bond strength were polymer-coated base brackets. The shear bond strength was the lowest in the plain foil mesh pads.

Objectives: The goal of the current study was to assess the effectiveness of a commercially available herbal mouthwash with chlorhexidine on the number of Streptococcus mutans in the saliva, the condition of the gingival tissue, and plaque development. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two adults in all, ranging in age from 20 to 30, were divided into two groups at random. Throughout the 14-day clinical trial, Group A (11) and Group B (11) received 10 mL of test herbal mouthwash and chlorhexidine, respectively. Result: Herbal mouthwash was discovered to be equally as effective as chlorhexidine in lowering the salivary mutans streptococci count and in affecting plaque and gingival scores. Conclusion: Alternatives from the herbal world may show to be a reliable and secure therapy option.

Introduction: HSP is arguably the most thoroughly studied self-antigens connected to Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVD) and periodontal disease. Hence, the major goal of this analysis was to determine the amount of HSP60 in patients' Chronic Periodontitis (CP) patients' serum. Materials and Methods: The current investigation involved 100 patients in all. Based on the patients' periodontal and cardiovascular health, the patients were divided. The patients were made aware that this research had no direct bearing on disease treatment or cure. Results: In contrast to periodontal disease, which had a mean serum HSP60 of 59.94 ng/dl, CVD had a mean serum HSP60 of 85.98 ng/dl. When compared to periodontal disease, the CVD increased significantly (P < 0.05, 0.03). Discussion and Conclusion: We emphasize the function of HSP60 in the pathophysiology of individuals with chronic periodontitis based on the findings of the current investigation. Serum HSP60 concentrations can serve as a biomarker for periodontal inflammation. More longitudinal and interventional research with a larger sample size is required to validate the present findings. In periodontal therapies, targeting HSP60 may enhance results.

Aim: The study was done to evaluate extraction of teeth without altering the aspirin therapy. Materials and Method: Hundred patients taking aspirin therapy requiring extraction of teeth were separated into two groups with 50 samples in each. Group I continued the aspirin therapy during extraction of teeth on one occasion, and the same patients who discontinued the aspirin therapy 72 hours before extraction of teeth on another occasion become Group II. Result: The mean blood loss showed slightly increased bleeding in Group I in comparison to Group II. The average bleeding time and mean INR was statistically significant among both groups. The mean clotting time and mean platelet count were not statistically significant among groups. Conclusion: There was no alteration in bleeding after extraction in patients with low doses of aspirin therapy.

This article critically assesses the UK counter-terrorism strategy and determines the extent to which there is international justice within the War on Terror. It investigates why war crimes are investigated and prosecuted differently, as well as how understandings of what terrorism is varied, according to who the perpetrators are. It argues that new legal mechanisms and institutions need to hold all perpetrators of war crimes accountable, both state and non-state actors.

Purpose – Internal control systems are critical to an organization's efficiency and promotes the adherence to norms and rules. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of internal control systems on banking industry effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 15 commercial and 20 rural banks. The hypothesized relationships were supported by the data. A structural equation modeling was applied in testing the conceptual model and hypothesis. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to establish validity and reliability of the dimensions. Findings – The results show that organizational effectiveness was significantly impacted by three dimensions of internal control systems: control activities, control environments and risk assessment. However, the impact of monitoring of control on organizational effectiveness was not significant. The results also show a nonsignificant impact of information and communication on organizational effectiveness. Research limitations/implications – Since the current study concentrated on the banking sector with its distinct characteristics, the generalizability of the conclusions may be limited. Practical implications – The study's findings may aid decision-makers and stakeholders in the adoption, designing and implementation of proactive internal control system to enhance operational efficiency, effectiveness and competitive advantage. Originality/value – The study advances the literature by empirically evidencing that internal control systems impact organizational effectiveness.

Purpose – The current study assesses the contribution of entrepreneurship education (EE) in strengthening entrepreneurial attitudes (EAs) and entrepreneurial intentions (EIs) among engineering graduates in India. Design/methodology/approach – Cross-sectional data were collected through an electronic questionnaire from 340 engineering students. Structural equation modeling was performed for hypothesis testing through SmartPLS4 software. Findings – The findings demonstrated that EE, EA and EI are positively and significantly correlated. However, the moderation effect of gender on EE–EI linkage was found to be insignificant. Research limitations/implications – The study provides comprehensive insights to understand EE effectiveness on students' EI and further opens the path for future researchers to investigate how the inclusion of other constructs in theory of planned behavior and human capital theory can raise the EI among students. Future research should target a larger sample size comprising students from diverse educational streams. Practical implications – The findings of this research offer various practical contributions for educational establishments, policymakers and the government in formulating constructive educational interventions that fully trigger the student's EIs. Originality/value – This study adds to the scarce theoretical examination of EE–EI using the human capital approach in developing countries. In addition, this study is highly relevant to the scarce theoretical and empirical support for investigating the contribution of EE in HEIs in India.

Abstract Food packaging reinforced with Zn-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with enhanced prerequisite film-forming and biodegradable traits was prepared to augment fresh food storage. Pure and tailored metal (Zinc, Copper, and Selenium) doped TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized and analyzed through multiple characterization techniques (optical spectra, XRD patterns (X-Ray Diffraction), Dynamic Light Scattering, and Scanning Electron Microscopy). The synthesized nanoparticles were tested for their Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations, antimicrobial potential against common lethal food pathogens, and cytotoxicity. Compared to Cu- and Se-doped nanoparticles, Zn-doped TiO2 nanoparticles displayed the most potent antimicrobial activity with insignificant cytotoxicity and were incorporated into the food packaging materials. The developed nano-reinforced food packaging efficaciously augmented the freshness of plums (Oemleria cerasiformis) for 16 days (42 ± 2 °C). The physicomechanical characterization of the nano-reinforced packaging establishes its utility in food packaging applications. The developed biodegradable packaging undergoes complete decomposition within 12 days of storage in natural soil.

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease that endangers the entire body’s tissues and organs. Diabetes impairs glucose and insulin regulation in the human body by causing pancreatic cell damage. Diabetes modifies pathways such as serine/threonine protein kinase (Akt) and Protein kinase C (PKC)/- glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) glucose absorption, and inhibits α-amylase and α-glucosidase, Sodium/glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT-1), and Na+-K+-ATPase activity. Diabetes may also be caused by a decrease in the expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP-1) and its target genes, fatty acid synthase (FAS), stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase α (ACC), as well as a decrease in the levels of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), Caspase12, and Caspase3 proteins. Diabetes has long been linked to diseases of the cardiovascular, nervous, skeletal, reproductive, hepatic, ocular, and renal systems. Diosgenin, a steroidal compound derived from fenugreek, aids in the prevention of diabetes by altering cellular pathways in favor of healthy bodily functions. Diosgenin is a new nutraceutical on the market that claims to cure diabetes in particular. This article focuses on diosgenin extraction and purification, fenugreek bioactive compounds, pharmacological properties of diosgenin, mode of action of diosgenin to cure diabetes, and dosages.

Quorum sensing plays a vital role in the environmental and host life cycles of Vibrio cholerae. The quorum-sensing circuit involves the consorted action of autoinducers, small RNAs, and regulatory proteins to control a plethora of physiological events in this bacterium. Among the regulatory proteins, LuxO is considered a low-cell-density master regulator. It is a homolog of NtrC, a two-component response regulator. NtrC belongs to an evolving protein family that works with the alternative sigma factor σ54 to trigger gene transcription. Structurally, these proteins comprise 3 domains: a receiver domain, a central AAA+ATPase domain, and a C-terminal DNA-binding domain (DBD). LuxO communicates with its cognate promoters by employing its DNA binding domain. In the present study, we desired to identify the critical residues in the DBD of LuxO. Our combined mutagenesis and biochemical assays resulted in the identification of eleven residues that contribute significantly to LuxO regulatory function.

The n×n real matrix P is called centrosymmetric matrix if P=RPR, where R is permutation matrix with ones on cross diagonal (bottom left to top right) and zeroes elsewhere. In this article, the solvability conditions for left and right inverse eigenvalue problem (which is special case of inverse eigenvalue problem) under the submatrix constraint for generalized centrosymmetric matrices are derived, and the general solution is also given. In addition, we provide a feasible algorithm for computing the general solution, which is proved by a numerical example.

Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a promising biomarker for disease prediction in many cancers, including acute leukemia (acute myeloid leukemia [AML] and acute lymphoblastic leukemia [ALL]). This study investigated the role of cfDNA in predicting relapse or unfavorable outcomes in acute leukemia patients upon initial diagnosis.Methods: Paired peripheral blood samples of 25 patients with ALL and AML were compared at baseline and induction/follow-up and clinically correlated with clinicopathological and outcome variables according to the risk category. cfDNA was isolated using commercial cfDNA extraction kits. The probability of poor outcomes in high-risk groups and a cut-off value for risk stratification minimal residual disease (MRD) positivity and outcome prediction were derived.Results: Twenty-five patients diagnosed with AML and ALL were risk-stratified based on NCI risk stratification, and of these 25 patients, 4 patients were of standard risk (SR) and 1 patient was of intermediate risk (IR), while a majority of patients (80%) were of high risk (HR). Of these, four HR patients passed away. The ratio of cfDNA reduction at baseline and the end of induction was a strong predictor of poor outcomes in high-risk patients, regardless of the MRD status. A cfDNA ratio score of 2.6 or higher at diagnosis/remission predicted poor outcomes, with higher accuracy than conventional MRD detection by flow cytometry.Conclusion: A higher cfDNA ratio at diagnosis/remission or at baseline predicts poor outcomes in acute leukemia patients. This pilot study suggests that cfDNA ratio scoring may be a useful tool for predicting prognosis in acute leukemia patients, regardless of the MRD status.

Background: Chronic Myeloid Leukemia is characterized by the presence of the Philadelphia Chromosome (Ph) which contains the BCR::ABL1 fusion gene that occurs due to a reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22. This accounts for up to 15 % of all adult leukemias [1]. Most patients treated with first line tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) imatinib achieve durable response but may undergo relapse at some stage [2]. The most important mechanism that may confer imatinib resistance is point mutation within BCR::ABL kinase domain. Other generation ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as dasatinib, nilotinib, bosutinib and ponatinib help to overcome imatinib resistance [3]. Sensitivity of the patient to each of the above TKIs depends upon the individual candidate mutation present. Thus, it is important to perform mutation analysis for effective therapeutic management of CML patients once they show imatinib resistance. We used direct sequencing to identify the different types of mutations responsible for resistance of imatinib treatment from north India. Methods: In this study, the patient resistance for the imatinib were analyzed for BCR::ABL kinase domain mutation by direct sequencing and the detected mutations along with their percentage prevalence were reported. Results: 329 patients with CML-CP were analyzed for BCR::ABL kinase domain mutation. Total 66 (20.06 %) patients out of 329 had mutation in at least one of the domains of BCR::ABL conferring resistance to different generations of TKI. Mutations in BCR::ABL kinase domain was observed in different domain of BCR::ABL. ATP binding P-Loop (42.42 %), Direct binding site (36.36 %), C-Loop (10.60 %), A-Loop (6.06 %), SH2 contact (3.03 %), SH3 contact (1.51 %). Conclusion: Total 20.06 % patients (66/329) show mutation in at least one of the structural motifs of BCR-ABL kinase domain, which further confer the resistance to a particular generation of TKI.

Enhancing plant productivity and fortifying defense mechanisms against biotic and abiotic stresses is crucial for sustainable agriculture. To achieve this, researchers have investigated the use of endophytic bacteria as a viable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides. In this study, 50 endophytic microbes were isolated from stress-tolerant parts of different plants, including Lantana camara, Phoenix dactylifera, Hemerocallis fulva, Salvia rosmarinus, Commiphora wightii, and Abutilon indicum. These microbes were evaluated for their tolerance to abiotic stresses and ability to promote plant growth. Among the isolates, R1L2 and A2L2L2 exhibited the highest tolerance to salt stress, withstanding up to 16% NaCl. DL2R2, R1L2, and A1S1S were the most tolerant to lead stress, tolerating up to 6% w/v lead. For cadmium stress, R1L2, DL3R2, and DP1L1L1 showed the highest tolerance, enduring up to 6% w/v cadmium. The isolates were also assessed for their plant growth-promoting (PGP) activities, including the production of IAA, Gibberellin, Cytokinin, HCN, siderophore, phosphate solubilization, and nitrogen fixation. All isolates were positive for nitrogen fixation attribute. However, under specific stress conditions, all isolates showed negative results for HCN production, siderophore production, or inorganic phosphate solubilization. Isolates A1S1S and DL3R2 demonstrated positive results for producing phytohormones such as IAA, Gibberellin, and Cytokinin. Through phenotypic and biochemical characteristics, as well as 16S rDNA gene sequencing, isolate A1S1S was identified as Pelomonas aquatic (accession no. OP984335), and isolate DL3R2 was identified as Solibacillus silvestris (accession no. OP854919). These findings suggest that the endophytic strains Pelomonas aquatic and Solibacillus silvestris have potential applications as multi-stress reducers, bioremediation agents, and crop growth promoters in essential crops.

AbstractThe depth-wise depletion of soil organic carbon (OC), macro, micro, and secondary nutrients under the rice-wheat system has resulted in multi-nutrient deficiencies and a decline in crop productivity, emphasizing the replacement of rice-wheat with alternate cropping systems like maize-wheat, cotton-wheat, soybean-wheat, and moongbean-wheat to restore soil fertility and productivity. Long-term investigations (since 2016) revealed that there was a depth-wise decline in pH, EC, OC, and nutrients in soil profile (Udic Ustrochept, Inceptisols) among different cropping systems. The practice of deep-rooted cropping systems (maize-wheat and cotton-wheat) led to maximum OC, soluble calcium, and magnesium, while legume-based systems (especially soybean-wheat) led to maximum available phosphorus (30.86 kg ha−1), boron (0.49 mg kg−1), and DTPA-zinc (1.82 mg kg−1) in soil profile (0–120 cm). This system also led to the maximum surface soil OC, available phosphorus, soluble magnesium, DTPA-zinc, and boron. From the production point of view, soybean-wheat system (115.65 q ha−1) led to higher system grain productivity as compared to rice-wheat system (109.60 q ha−1). Therefore, the practice of alternative cropping systems like soybean-wheat and cotton-wheat helps in the build-up of nutrient status by playing a pivotal role in influencing the surface and depth-wise distribution of organic carbon and nutrients in the soil.

Abstract Dozens of frameworks have been proposed to assess evidence for digital health interventions (DHIs), but existing frameworks may not facilitate DHI evidence reviews that meet the needs of stakeholder organizations including payers, health systems, trade organizations, and others. These organizations may benefit from a DHI assessment framework that is both rigorous and rapid. Here we propose a framework to assess Evidence in Digital health for EFfectiveness of INterventions with Evaluative Depth (Evidence DEFINED). Designed for real-world use, the Evidence DEFINED Quick Start Guide may help streamline DHI assessment. A checklist is provided summarizing high-priority evidence considerations in digital health. Evidence-to-recommendation guidelines are proposed, specifying degrees of adoption that may be appropriate for a range of evidence quality levels. Evidence DEFINED differs from prior frameworks in its inclusion of unique elements designed for rigor and speed. Rigor is increased by addressing three gaps in prior frameworks. First, prior frameworks are not adapted adequately to address evidence considerations that are unique to digital health. Second, prior frameworks do not specify evidence quality criteria requiring increased vigilance for DHIs in the current regulatory context. Third, extant frameworks rarely leverage established, robust methodologies that were developed for non-digital interventions. Speed is achieved in the Evidence DEFINED Framework through screening optimization and deprioritization of steps that may have limited value. The primary goals of Evidence DEFINED are to a) facilitate standardized, rapid, rigorous DHI evidence assessment in organizations and b) guide digital health solutions providers who wish to generate evidence that drives DHI adoption.

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Immediate negative impact of the COVID pandemic on CTSA T trainees and K scholars was reported in 2020 to be lack of access to research facilities, clinics, human subjects, and team members, and a need for homeschooling. In this study we examined in more detail the perceived impact of the COVID pandemic on training and career development three years later. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: CTSA T trainees and K scholars were surveyed in May-June 2023 to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on training and career development. Data were included from 309 T trainees and K scholars appointed in 2018-2023 at 50 institutions, with good representation from states that were heavily impacted by COVID. Respondents included 76 past and 64 current T trainees, and 56 past and 113 current K scholars. There were no significant differences in race, ethnicity, or gender between T and K respondents. Significantly more K scholars reported both being married or in a committed relationship, and having children. Survey items included the same questions asked in the 2020 survey, plus additional new questions. Results compare impact for T trainees and K scholars. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: K scholars were more negatively impacted for access to clinic/human subjects, home environment, child care, access to staff, increased clinical responsibilities, and other hospital service. T trainees and K scholars reported higher positive impact than in 2020, for having more time to think/write and develop new research ideas. About 2/3 of respondents reported returning to research full-time by April 2021, and the remaining by August 2021. Lasting changes in career progression or research direction were reported as both positive and negative (48%), negative (25%), or positive (10%). Most (2/3) respondents in faculty positions reported that a time extension was available for promotion and/or tenure. Additional in-depth analysis will be presented, based on qualitative analysis of open-ended questions. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Despite research shutdowns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that lasted for about a year, CTSA T trainees and K scholars were remarkably resilient. They were able to continue some research activities and professional development activities, and developed strategies to maintain productivity and minimize impact on their training duration.

Bionutrients play a vital role in enhancing soil productivity and sustainable agricultural production. In vegetable crops, limited information is available on the relevance of bionutrients in solanaceous crops under protected conditions. Therefore, an experiment was planned to study the response of bionutrients under the modified naturally ventilated polyhouse in mid-hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh for two consecutive years. Various bell pepper varieties, viz., Mekong, Orobelle, Indra and DPCY1, were subjected to a set of bionutrient sources (beejamrit, ghanjeevamrit, jeevamrit and mulching). The results showed that there was a substantial increase in yield parameters in the treatment module, i.e., Mekong + beejamrit@ 200 ml/kg + ghanjeevamrit@5q/ha + jeevamrit @ 500 lt/ha at 21-day intervals + mulching @ 10 t/ha. This treatment exhibited a minimum number of days to 50% flowering (24.16), maximum number of marketable fruits per plant (28.40), fruit length (7.68 cm), fruit breadth (7.70 cm), pericarp thickness (9.15 mm), average fruit weight (109.53 g), plant height (84.06 cm) and marketable yield per plant (3.11 kg). However, Mekong + beejamrit @ 200 ml/kg + ghanjeevamrit @5q/ha + jeevamrit@ 500 lt/ha at 28-day intervals + mulching @ 10 t/hattreatment proved best for total soluble solids (4.58 °Brix), ascorbic acid (166.50 mg/100 g), capsaicin content (6.64%) and carotenoid content (2.43 mg/100 g). Horticultural and biochemical traits were appreciably enhanced after bionutrient application in bell pepper. Therefore, outcomes from the study point out that it is a feasible and economical approach for farmers.

A class of exceptionally bioactive molecules known as reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been widely studied in the context of cancer. They play a significant role in the etiopathogenesis for cancer. Implication of ROS in cancer biology is an evolving area, considering the recent advances; insights into their generation, role of genomic and epigenetic regulators for ROS, earlier thought to be a chemical process, with interrelations with cell death pathways- Apoptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis and autophagy has been explored for newer targets that shift the balance of ROS towards cancer cell death. ROS are signal transducers that induce angiogenesis, invasion, cell migration, and proliferation at low to moderate concentrations and are considered normal by-products of a range of biological activities. Although ROS is known to exist in the oncology domain since time immemorial, its excessive quantities are known to damage organelles, membranes, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, resulting in cell death. In the last two decades, numerous studies have demonstrated immunotherapies and other anticancer treatments that modulate ROS levels have promising in vitro and in vivo effects. This review also explores recent targets for therapeutic interventions in cancer that are based on ROS generation or inhibition to disrupt the cell oxidative stress balance. Examples include-metabolic targets, targeted therapy with biomarkers, natural extracts and nutraceuticals and targets developed in the area of nano medicine. In this review, we present the molecular pathways which can be used to create therapy plans that target cancer by regulating ROS levels, particularly current developments and potential prospects for the effective implementation of ROS-mediated therapies in clinical settings. The recent advances in complex interaction with apoptosis especially ferroptosis and its role in epigenomics and modifications are a new paradigm, to just mechanical action of ROS, as highlighted in this review. Their inhibition by nutraceuticals and natural extracts has been a scientific challenging avenue that is explored. Also, the inhibition of generation of ROS by inhibitors, immune modulators and inhibitors of apoptosis and ferroptosis is explored in this review.

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is commonly used for several life-threatening conditions requiring anticoagulant therapy but failure to reach therapeutic levels in 24 h can be associated with adverse outcomes. Use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) may provide an alternative while providing superior outcomes as compared to UFH. We studied 100 patients who underwent UFH therapy for >24 h and found that theoretically 80 % were eligible for LMWH therapy. Only 29 % and 40 % of the total aPTT draws were in the therapeutic window within the first 24 h and at 25–48 h respectively. This study reports that a vast majority of patients remain outside of therapeutic aPTT within first 24–48 h when anticoagulated with UFH. With high eligibility for LMWH therapy, its substitution can potentially lead to better patient outcomes, higher levels of therapeutic efficacy, and decrease in hospital resources.

Key Clinical Message Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and tuberculoma are two distinct medical conditions. Nonetheless, they can be related in very rare cases. The purpose of this case report is to consider screening tests such as IGRA (interferon gamma release assay) and TST (tuberculin skin test), for tuberculosis in CKD patients with a risk of infection, thereby increasing the awareness of tuberculoma in CKD and ensuring early treatment which would eventually decrease the morbidity and mortality rates in such patients. Abstract Chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with tuberculoma represents one of the rarest conditions occurring worldwide. Among tuberculous patients, only 1% show central nervous system involvement. We present a case of a 45‐year‐old male with CKD who presented with a seizure and was diagnosed to have tuberculoma.

ObjectiveIndividuals with neurodevelopmental disorders such as global developmental delay (GDD) present both genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity. This diversity has hampered developing of targeted interventions given the relative rarity of each individual genetic etiology. Novel approaches to clinical trials where distinct, but related diseases can be treated by a common drug, known as basket trials, which have shown benefits in oncology but have yet to be used in GDD. Nonetheless, it remains unclear how individuals with GDD could be clustered. Here, we assess two different approaches: agglomerative and divisive clustering.MethodsUsing the largest cohort of individuals with GDD, which is the Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD), characterized using a systematic approach, we extracted genotypic and phenotypic information from 6,588 individuals with GDD. We then used a k-means clustering (divisive) and hierarchical agglomerative clustering (HAC) to identify subgroups of individuals. Next, we extracted gene network and molecular function information with regard to the clusters identified by each approach.ResultsHAC based on phenotypes identified in individuals with GDD revealed 16 clusters, each presenting with one dominant phenotype displayed by most individuals in the cluster, along with other minor phenotypes. Among the most common phenotypes reported were delayed speech, absent speech, and seizure. Interestingly, each phenotypic cluster molecularly included several (3–12) gene sub-networks of more closely related genes with diverse molecular function. k-means clustering also segregated individuals harboring those phenotypes, but the genetic pathways identified were different from the ones identified from HAC.ConclusionOur study illustrates how divisive (k-means) and agglomerative clustering can be used in order to group individuals with GDD for future basket trials. Moreover, the result of our analysis suggests that phenotypic clusters should be subdivided into molecular sub-networks for an increased likelihood of successful treatment. Finally, a combination of both agglomerative and divisive clustering may be required for developing of a comprehensive treatment.

The present study was undertaken with the objective to reconnoiter the role of Zat12-related biochemical activities in temperature stress tolerance in wheat transgenic lines Z-8-12 1A, Z-8-12 1B, Z-8-19, and Z-15-10, which were produced by transforming wheat-cultivar PBW 621. Zat12 transgenics (ZT) along with non-transgenic (NT) wheat cultivars (PBW 621, PBW, 550, and HD 3086) were assessed at the three-weeks seedling stage under chilling (−2 °C and −4 °C) and heat (30 °C and 32 °C) stress. Specific activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), and antioxidants (proline and ascorbate) were profoundly increased under temperature stress in ZT related to NT. However, under −4 °C and 32 °C, a significantly higher increase was reported. In contrast, H2O2 and MDA were found to be much lower in ZT than in NT. Similarly, lesser decreases in length, fresh weight, and dry weight of seedlings were reported in ZT at 30 °C and 32 °C. RT-PCR studies revealed the enhanced expression of Zat12 in the roots of seedlings at the 5, 10, and 14 days after germination (DAG) stages in ZT under the stress conditions. Upregulation of the antioxidant defense system in ZT and their better tolerance depict an alternative for wheat cultivation under temperature stress-prone areas.

Purpose: Cystoid macular degeneration (CMD) is a feature of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). Present study intended to analyze the clinical presentation, risk factors, choroidal features, and outcome of CMD in CSCR. Methods: This was a retrospective, record-based descriptive study, which included chronic CSCR eyes with CMD. Demographic profile and clinical history were obtained from medical records. Spectralis spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT; Heidelberg Engineering,Germany) was used for acquiring SDOCT images and for performing fluorescein angiography , indocyanine green angiography , and optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography. Results: The study included 101 eyes of 69 consecutive patients of CSCR having CMD. The mean age of patients was 56 ± 9.4 years (range 40–79 years), and majority (63, 91.3%) of the patients were male. Prior history of corticosteroid use was present in seven (10.1%) patients. Mean time interval between the first diagnosis of CSCR and appearance of CMD was 55.3 ± 33.9 months. CMD was located away from the fovea in majority of eyes (68, 67.3%). Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness was 396.71 ± 90.5 μm. Subretinal pigment epithelium choroidal neovascularization was noted in four (3.96%) eyes. Conclusion: CMD appears as a late complication of CSCR and is usually present away from the fovea. Such eyes had thickened choroid and fewer cases had associated choroidal neovascularization. Further comparative studies would be needed to validate these findings.

Background: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is the main reason for mortality and morbidity. Numerous studies have shown a link between chronic alcohol usage and AP. However, there are few studies on the percentage of patients developing AP as a result of dependent patterns of drinking and associated risk factors. Aim: This study aimed to study the prevalence and impact of risk factors of alcohol dependence syndrome with AP patients hospitalized in tertiary care facilities. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study. Sociodemographic and clinical data were taken from patients with AP after consent. Eighty-five patients with AP who met the inclusion criteria were involved after each participant had clinical evaluation using the modified Marshall score, the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, and the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SAD-Q). The outcomes were tabulated and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results: 38.8% of patients with AP were found to have features of alcohol dependence syndrome. Higher values of mean corpuscular volume (MCV), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and uric acid were associated with a greater propensity to have AP. The severity of alcohol dependence syndrome and AP was not associated. Conclusion: AP is potentially a fatal disease. In this study, 38.8% of AP patients had alcohol dependence syndrome. There was no statistical association between the severity of AP and alcohol dependence syndrome, though high values of MCV, SGOT, SGPT, and GGT were at greater risk of developing AP. As a result, alcohol dependence syndrome should be examined in all individuals with AP.