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Introduction:Recently, concerns were raised about the safety of Ayurvedic medicines using Bhasma and concerns were expressed regarding the metal toxicity of traditional preparations containing Bhasmas. Hence, to analyze safety and immunomodulatory effect of an Ayurveda herbomineral preparation Swarna Vacha Yog, an experimental study was conducted in Wistar Albino Rats. The proposed formulation was intended for oral administration. Hence, the safety study was performed using OECD proposed Oral Toxicity Guidelines and was evaluated by response in Wistar Albino Rats.Methods:Nine healthy adult albino Wistar Albino Rats from both sexes were randomly selected for toxicity study which were divided into three groups (three in each group) and 24 selected randomly and divided in four groups for immunomodulatory effect.Results and Conclusion:No any evidence of acute toxicity was observed after giving test sample at dose of 50, 300 and 2000 mg/kg at 30 min, 4 h, 24 h, 48 h, 1 week, and 2 weeks. There was less reduction in total leukocyte count and neutrophil count (P < 0.0001) when trial drug was compared with normal control and standard control in cyclophosphamide-induced neutropenia rat model.

Background: Student at the university level experience high level of stress, related to worry about successes, availability of time and engagement in patient care. Coping mechanisms are essential when trying to deal with the stress and anxiety that nursing students face on a daily basis. The objectives of this study was to find out the level of stress and coping among nursing students and to find out the association between level of stress and coping with selected socio demographic variables. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross sectional research design was adopted for the study. Non probability total enumerative sampling technique was used in the study. A structured questionnaire consisting of 5 points Likert scale was used for assessing the stress whereas Brief cope scale was used for assessing the coping among nursing students. Data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The result depicts that out 107 respondents, more than two third (68.2%) of the respondents had high level of stress whereas more than half (60.7%) of the respondents had average coping. There was statically significant association between the age of the respondents with the level of stress whereas there was no statically significant association between coping with the socio demographic characteristics of respondents. Conclusion: The study concluded that, more than two third respondents had high level of stress with average coping. So, there is further need of nursing educators to provide stress management technique educational program to nursing students.

Background: Diabetes mellitus imposes vast social, health, and economic impacts on individuals and countries in the long term.Inadequate medication adherence is a major factor leading to poor and suboptimal glycemic control among patients with DM, which catalyzes the magnitude of this problem and leads to the development of diabetic-related complications. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in medicine and endocrine OPD of Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital.A convenience sampling technique was deployed using a structured interview schedule consisting of a medication adherence scale having a 4 Likert scale. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 20.0. Descriptive statistics including, frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation were demonstrated by using tables and pie charts. Inferential statistics were used to find out the association between the level of adherence and selected variablesand also determinants associated with non-adherence. Results: From a total of 228 study respondents, more than half (59.65%) of them were non-adherent to their anti-diabetic medication. Glycemic control and the type of drug taken were found to be significantly associated with the level of medication adherence. Patients with tend to forgetfulness, far distance from health facilities, fear of dependency on drugs, and symptoms of hypoglycemia will likely have greater odds to be non-adhered to medications. Conclusion: Medication adherence among diabetic patients in the present study is non-adherent. Glycemic control and the type of drug taken were associated with level of adherence

In developing countries, migration results from origin push factors like unemployment, poverty, natural disasters, and underdevelopment. However, migration from rural to urban areas in developing countries contributes to urbanisation and is viewed as an investment to secure improved and higher-paying employment opportunities. The scope of the rural-urban migration area is mapped in this study in relation to employment and the development of new factors. To map the field, first systematic literature review was performed on the retrieved literature from a chosen database (SCOPUS). Further, using the bibliometrix R package and VOSviewer, descriptive and content analysis were carried out as part of the bibliometric analysis. The analysis focuses on the various viewpoints on the topic, including the literature's descriptive details, the authors' and sources' relevance, their contributions, and the countries' contributions. It also looks at the topic's driving themes and any newly discovered factors that may be contributing to rural-urban migration. JEL Codes: O15, J61, J01 Received: 25/04/2024. Accepted: 21/09/2024. Published: 14/10/2024.

Background: Metformin plays a major part in the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome .Trials are being conducted to compare the effectiveness of combination of metformin with cabergoline in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of metformin monotherapy and combination therapy with cabergoline versus metformin for the management of polycystic ovarian syndrome with hyperprolactinemia. Methodology: An extensive search up until 31 May 2024 of electronic databases (PubMed, Registry of Controlled Clinical Trials, Web of Sciences, SCOPUS) to find pertinent studies. An analysis was conducted with both observational data and randomized clinical trials . To compute the standard mean difference, weighted mean difference, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval, RevMan (v5.3) was utilized. Primary outcomes that were assessed included body-mass index, regular menstruation, weight change, prolactin, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels. Results: Three randomized controlled trials and 1 observational study, taking a total patient population of n = 535, were part of our final analysis. Prolactin (SMD = −3.23 95% CI: (−4.90, −1.55)) and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels (SMD = −0.27 95% CI: (−0.52, −0.01)) were significantly lower in the metformin and cabergoline combination therapy group; monthly regularity was also significantly higher (OR = 3.07 95% CI: (2.09, 4.51)). Statistically, there was no significant difference in weight, body-mass index, or testosterone levels. Conclusions: In the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome, the combination of metformin and cabergoline significantly lowers prolactin levels and encourages regular menstrual cycles. Although metformin has the potential to suppress testosterone levels, more investigation is required to determine how combination therapy affect dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and testosterone levels. It’s interesting to note that while neither intervention had a substantial impact on weight or body-mass index, metformin and cabergoline combination therapy outperformed metformin monotherapy in terms of supporting regular menstrual cycles. Customized therapy approaches are essential, and large-scale trials involving a variety of groups are required to comprehend the safety and effectiveness of treatments.

BackgroundScreen use time has increased in the past decade owing to the increased availability and accessibility of digital devices and the internet. Several studies have shown an association between increased screen use time and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. However, studies in the young adult population—a demographic with high screen use—and in low- and middle-income country settings are limited. ObjectiveThis protocol describes a study that aims to measure self-reported screen use times and patterns in young adults (18-24 y) in India and assess if increased screen use time is associated with poorer mental well-being. MethodsThis protocol describes a cross-sectional study of a pan-India, web-based convenience sample of young adults (18-24 y) with access to digital devices with a screen and a minimum of secondary school education. Participants will be recruited through people in the professional networks of the investigators, which includes pediatricians. The survey will also be distributed via the social media pages of our organization (X [X Corp], Instagram [Meta], Facebook [Meta], etc). Sociodemographic details will be collected through a questionnaire designed by the authors; screen use time and patterns will be assessed using an adaptation of the Screen Time Questionnaire to include data on different apps and websites used on digital devices; and mental health parameters will be gauged using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire. For statistical analysis, we will consider the following variables: (1) the primary independent variable is screen use time; (2) other independent variables include age, gender, residence: rural or urban, educational qualifications, employment status, stress associated with familial financial status, average sleep time, number of people living in a house or rooms in that house, BMI, substance use, and past psychiatric history; and (3) dependent variables include mental well-being, depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. To quantify the association between screen use time and mental health, we will perform a Bayesian multivariate multiple regression analysis that models the possibility of multiple alternative hypotheses while accounting for relevant sociodemographic covariables. ResultsThe survey instrument has been designed, and feedback has been obtained from the domain experts and members of our organization whose profile is similar to the potential study participants. The final data received after this study has been conducted will be analyzed and shared. As of January 2023, we have not yet initiated the data collection. ConclusionsBased on the findings of this study, we will be able to establish a correlation between device- and use-specific screen use time and various mental health parameters. This will provide a direction to develop screen use time and mental health guidelines among young adults. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)PRR1-10.2196/39707

Background and Aims: The incidence of tracheal extubation failure in high-risk patients is higher, and non-invasive ventilation is suggested to avoid tracheal reintubation. This study compares the effectiveness of bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) and high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) to reduce the rate of reintubation in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with increased risk of extubation failure. Methods: This randomised comparative trial was conducted on 60 high-risk patients on mechanical ventilators admitted to the ICU, ready for weaning after a spontaneous breathing trial. They were randomised to Group H for HFNC and Group B for BiPAP therapy. Designated therapy was administered in these high-risk patients for up to 48 hours after tracheal extubation. Haemodynamic parameters [mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), a saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2), electrocardiogram (ECG)], arterial blood gas analysis (ABG) parameter [potential of hydrogen (pH), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2), partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (paO2/FiO2) ratio], the effectiveness of cough, comfort level was recorded and continuous monitoring for signs of respiratory distress and failure was done. Results: Most of the patients were obese and had more than two risk factors for extubation failure. Several patients in Group B have significantly higher successful extubation than in Group H (P = 0.044). Most of the reintubation took place within 24 hours. The HFNC therapy was more comfortable and acceptable to patients. Conclusion: BiPAP therapy was more efficient than HFNC in preventing tracheal reintubation among patients with a high risk of extubation failure.

Background: In the management of diabetes mellitus, the role of self-care has been pivotal. Individuals with diabetes have been shown to make a dramatic impact on the progression and development of disease by participating in their care.This study aimed to assess self-management among diabetes patients. Materials and Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 232 patients with diabetes selected by convenience sampling. Diabetes Self Management Questionnaire-Revised was used to assess self-management among diabetes patients. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (bivariate logistic regression). Results: Findings of the study revealed that out of 232 respondents, 48.7% had suboptimal diabetes self-management practices. The global score for diabetes self-management was 5.28± 1.34 The mean score for subscale cooperation with the diabetes team was highest i.e., 7.50± 1.94 followed by medication taking subscale (6.94±3.14), physical activity subscale (5.37± 3.09), eating behavior subscale (5.35±1.71) and glucose monitoring subscale (0.83± 2.19) respectively. The results further indicated a significant association between diabetes self-management and religion, type of diabetes medication, glycemic control, and diabetes complications at p

Faster and predictable osseointegration is crucial for the success of dental implants, especially in patients with compromised local or systemic conditions. Despite various surface modifications on the commercially available Titanium (Ti) dental implants, the bioactivity of Ti is still low. Thus, to achieve both biological and therapeutic activity on titanium surfaces, surface modification techniques such as titanium nanotubes have been studied as nanotube surfaces can hold therapeutic drugs and molecules. The main aim of the present research work is to study the early osseointegration around the novel Simvastatin drug eluting nanotubular dental implant. In the present research, the titanium nanotubes were fabricated on the screw-shaped dental implant surface and the Simvastatin drug was loaded into the nanotubes using the ultrasonication dip method. In vitro and In vivo studies were carried out on the modified dental implants. In vitro cell culture study reported enhanced osteogenic activity on the drug-loaded nanotube surface implants. The in vivo animal studies were evaluated by micro-CT, histopathology, and reverse torque removal analysis methods. The test results showed faster osseointegration with the strong interface on the Simvastatin drug-loaded implant surface at 4 weeks of healing as compared to the control implants.

Abstract The uncertainties associated with multi-area power systems comprising both thermal and distributed renewable generation (DRG) sources such as solar and wind necessitate the use of an efficient load frequency control (LFC) technique. Therefore, a hybrid version of two metaheuristic algorithms (arithmetic optimization and African vulture's optimization algorithm) is developed. It is called the ‘arithmetic optimized African vulture's optimization algorithm (AOAVOA)’. This algorithm is used to tune a novel type-2 fuzzy-based proportional–derivative branched with dual degree-of-freedom proportional–integral–derivative controller for the LFC of a three-area hybrid deregulated power system. Thermal, electric vehicle (EV), and DRG sources (including a solar panel and a wind turbine system) are connected in area-1. Area-2 involves thermal and gas-generating units (GUs), while thermal and geothermal units are linked in area-3. Practical restrictions such as thermo-boiler dynamics, thermal-governor dead-band, and generation rate constraints are also considered. The proposed LFC method is compared to other controllers and optimizers to demonstrate its superiority in rejecting step and random load disturbances. By functioning as energy storage elements, EVs and DRG units can enhance dynamic responses during peak demand. As a result, the effect of the aforementioned units on dynamic reactions is also investigated. To validate its effectiveness, the closed-loop system is subjected to robust stability analysis and is compared to various existing control schemes from the literature. It is determined that the suggested AOAVOA improves fitness by 40.20% over the arithmetic optimizer (AO), while frequency regulation is improved by 4.55% over an AO-tuned type-2 fuzzy-based branched controller.

The present study was designed to elucidate whether exogenously applied sulphur (S) (S1; 100 ppm, S2; 200 ppm S) alleviate lead (Pb)-induced (Pb1; 100 ppm, Pb2; 200 ppm and Pb3; 300 ppm Pb) stress in the leaves of Brassica juncea. To study this effect, oxidative stress biomarkers (hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde), enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR)), non-enzymatic antioxidants (chlorophyll and carotenoids) and S-metabolic enzymes like adenosine triphosphate sulfurylase (ATPS), O-acetylserine(thiol)lyase (OASTL) were studied. Pb treatment dramatically inhibited plant development by increasing lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation by 34.82 and 238.89 % respectively at 90 days plant. The overproduced oxidative biomarkers alter plant cell homeostasis. In contrast, APX (25.56 %) and GR (32.45 %) activities, chlorophyll (15.51 %) and carotenoids (30 %) contents increased under similar Pb treatments and regulated ROS-antioxidant balance. Exogenous S application, maintained the redox status of cell by further increasing the enzymatic activities. Pb treatment increased S assimilation in Brassica by elevating enzyme activities of ATPS and OASTL, which was further augmented by S supplementation to Pb-stressed plants. Besides gene expression of BjSULT, BjOASTL and BjGR1 exhibited slight increase under Pb stress, S application to the stressed plants doubled the expression and assisted the stress resistance. Overall, our findings demonstrate that S protect Pb-stressed Brassica seedlings, implying that S could be an ideal choice for reducing Pb toxicity in crops.

Background: In critical care units, ventilator-associated pneumonia is still a frequent and possibly fatal consequence of ventilator therapy. Choosing the most urgent care and knowing how to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia may help nurses become more alert, which will improve the quality of care and prevent a serious problem in Nepal. Thus, this study aimed to assess the knowledge regarding evidence-based guidelines on ventilator-associated pneumonia prevention bundle among critical care nurses. Materials and Methods: Data were collected through a self-administered structured questionnaire using the non-probability total enumerative sampling technique among 132 critical care nurses. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 20. For descriptive statistics frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were calculated. For inferential statistics, the Chi-square test was used to find out the association between the levels of knowledge regarding Evidence-Based Guidelines on the VAP Prevention Bundle among Critical Care Nurses. Results: One hundred and thirty-two critical nurses participated in this study. 51.5 % had a poor level of knowledge, whereas, 45.5 % had an average level of knowledge and only 3.0 % had a good level of knowledge. There was a statistically significant association between the level of knowledge and the respondents’ working experience. Conclusion: According to the study's findings, the majority of respondents had inadequate knowledge. Regular formal training and interactive educational sessions are required to evaluate knowledge of the VAP prevention bundle, particularly in light of the high nurse turnover rate.

Climate change is now evident and severe water shortage due to unpredictable raining season along with extended summers is expected to hamper crop production across the globe. Application of nanoparticle based formulations is one of the most sought after approach that is being explored currently to alleviate drought stress impact on plants. The present study was aimed to evaluate the potential of biosynthesized silica nanoparticles (silica NPs) in improving the drought tolerance of wheat. Four different concentrations of silica NPs (30, 60, 90, and 120 ppm) were used to treat wheat plants grown under two irrigation regimes- 50% soil moisture content (drought) and 100% soil moisture content (well-watered). The induced drought caused a prominent reduction in both - the crop yield and the morphological parameters of the crop. Foliar application of silica NPs at all concentrations, increased the plant's tolerance towards water stress but 60 ppm concentration was found to be most effective amongst all. After treatment with silica NPs at 60 ppm concentration, the plant height increased by 8.28%, spikes per plant by 98%, seeds per spike by 12.4%, and thousand seed weight by 37.5% as compared to the control. Besides this, expression levels of four drought-stress responsive genes-ABC1, Wdhn13, CHP, and EXP2 was also studied. We observed an enhanced expression of all the stress genes after treatment with silica nanoparticles in wheat plants grown under water deficient conditions, clearly supporting the influence of NP treatment at gene/molecular level. In nutshell, we conclude that silica nanoparticles have the potential to significantly ameliorate the negative impact of drought stress by reviving plant growth and modulating gene expression.

Objective: To estimate the global burden of stillbirths among pregnant women with the COVID-19 vaccination. Data source: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, a literature search was carried out in PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus until February 4, 2023, with language restriction (English). Study selection: Title-abstract screening followed by full text review was done independently by two authors, based on the research question, “What is the prevalence of stillbirths among the pregnant women vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccines?” Data extraction: Two authors independently extracted the relevant data from every study. The third author resolved the conflicts. This study was registered in PROSPERO and followed the PRISMA guidelines. Data analysis: A Random effects model was applied to assess the pooled estimate of stillbirths. The I2 test was used to assess the heterogeneity of the articles included in the study. For checking the publication bias, the Doi plot and the contour-enhanced funnel plot were utilized. Results: The database systematic search yielded 168 articles; 11 of them were determined to be eligible for systematic review and 8 of them ended up being included for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of stillbirth in pregnant women vaccinated against COVID-19 infection was 0.00509 (5 per 1000 live births delivered by pregnant women vaccinated against COVID-19 (95% CI: 0.00003–0.01676). Statistically significant heterogeneity was reported across studies (I2 = 98%; p

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is a unique multifaceted crop used for fodder and grain purpose. It’s grain has tremendous potential to offer health benefits, especially with the heightened emphasis on nutrition and food security. With this aim, quality traits were investigated among 62 oat genotypes, demonstrating significant variation. The biochemical analysis was conducted in laboratory of department of Genetics and Plant Breeding of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2019–21. Quality parameters depicted a wide range for seed crude protein (8.16–19.18%), forage crude protein (5.17–11.42%), phenol (0.61–1.22%), beta-glucan content (0.32–7.55%), total soluble sugar (4.90–8.49%), reducing sugar (1.07–4.28%) and non-reducing sugar (2.02–6.38%). The current research covered wide and powerful analytical approaches that helped to underpin the selection of the most promising genotypes and evaluated the contribution of different traits to heterogeneity. Furthermore, non-reducing sugar, reducing sugar and seed crude protein were emerged to be the major contributors of PC1, PC2 and PC3, respectively. The genotypes GP 492, HFO 1107, HFO 1003, HFO 1016, OS 403, HFO1105 and HFO 806 were the best performing based on quality parameters. Promiscuous genotypes can serve as pioneers in oat improvement programs, enabling the enhancement of nutritional value. These insights expand the prospects for the food industry and hence appraise the significance of oats among other cereals.

Abstract Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a novel cancer treatment, although recent immunotherapy trials have produced suboptimal outcomes, with durable responses seen only in a small number of patients. The tumor microenvironment (TME) has been shown to be responsible for tumor immune escape and therapy failure. The vital component of the TME is tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which are usually associated with poor prognosis and drug resistance, including immunotherapies, and have emerged as promising targets for cancer immunotherapy. Recently, nanoparticles, because of their unique physicochemical characteristics, have emerged as crucial translational moieties in tackling tumor-promoting TAMs that amplify immune responses and sensitize tumors to immunotherapies in a safe and effective manner. In this review, we mainly described the current potential nanomaterial-based therapeutic strategies that target TAMs, including restricting TAMs survival, inhibiting TAMs recruitment to tumors and functionally repolarizing tumor-supportive TAMs to antitumor type. The current understanding of the origin and polarization of TAMs, their crucial role in cancer progression and prognostic significance was also discussed in this review. We also highlighted the recent evolution of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-macrophage cell therapy.

Solar cells are pivotal in harnessing renewable energy for a greener and more sustainable energy landscape. Nonetheless, eco-friendly materials for solar cells have not been as extensive as conventional counterparts, highlighting a significant area for further investigation in advancing sustainable energy technologies. This study investigated natural dyes from cost-effective and environmentally friendly blueberries and mulberries. These dyes were utilized as alternative sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Alongside the natural dyes, a green approach was adopted for the DSSC design, encompassing TiO2 photoanodes, eco-friendly electrolytes, and green counter-electrodes created from graphite pencils and candle soot. Consequently, the best-optimized dye sensitizer was mulberry, with an output power of 13.79 µW and 0.122 µW for outdoor and indoor environments, respectively. This study underscored the feasibility of integrating DSSCs with sensitizers derived from readily available food ingredients, potentially expanding their applications in educational kits and technology development initiatives.

A field experiment was conducted at research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana during winter (rabi) season 2018–19 and 2019–20 with an objective to study the polymers with irrigation effect on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop. The research was done in a split-plot design with four irrigation [(No irrigation (I0), One irrigation at CRI stage, crown root initiation stage; (I1), Two irrigation at CRI, Booting (I2), Three irrigation at CRI, Booting, milking (I3)] and three polymer treatments [(No polymers (P0), Gondkatira @5 kg/ha (P1), Pusa Hydrogel @2.5 kg/ha (P2)] in the main and subplot respectively. The wheat seed yield decreased by 11.90% from I3 to I2, 17.12% from I3 to I1, and 33.74% from I3 to I0. The polymer treatment was used to increase the wheat seed yield. The yield was increased by 7.41% and 1.15% by application of hydrogel and gondkatira over no polymer. The minimum water productivity was registered under three irrigations. The application of gondkatira in wheat increased the water productivity by 8.09% while hydrogel 11.56%. Water stress or no irrigation has a lower Fv/Fm (Maximum quantum efficiency of PS II) (0.73) ratio than to no stress or three irrigations (0.75).

Utilizing waste lignocellulosic biomass to synthesize biofuel precursors constructs an important way to solve the current energy crisis. In this work, we have prepared a sulfonated acid catalyst from pine needles derived biochar using chlorosulfonic acid for conversion of fructose to levulinic acid and levulinic acid to ethyl levulinate. In the best optimized conditions, sulfonated biochar as a catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activity for the fructose conversion to levulinic acid and its esterification to ethyl levulinate with yield 33% and 97%.

An intraosseous lesion of jaws called central giant cell granuloma (CGCG), is significantly found in children and young adults and most of the cases are nonaggressive, asymptomatic, and slow growing. Approximately 30% of cases show an aggressive and progressively devastating nature with tendency to recur. We present a case of slow growing CGCG in mandible in a 10-year-old male managed by curettage along with preservation of tooth germ.

Background: Infant and child mortality and morbidity remain a challenge especially in the developing world. More than half of the children (53.7%) are suffering from some form of illness. Recurrent respiratory infection, recurrent diarrhea, recurrent fever, etc. are the most common causes of morbidity in immune-compromised children. In India, 15% of death occurs during infancy and 1-5 years of age are due to respiratory infections. Diarrhea constitutes the most important cause of chronic morbidity followed by malnutrition. The objective of this research was to study the effect of swarnaprashan on morbidity status of the children under five years of age. Methods: A randomized, open-label study was conducted on 60 children of 06 months to 5 years of age and were randomly divided into two groups (30 in each). In Group A, trial drug (Swarnaprashan) was given and in Group B, there was regarded as 'No treatment concurrent control'. Results: In group A where trial drug (Swarnaprashan) was given, improvement in morbidity features were found whereas in group B which was 'No treatment concurrent control', 'not significant' results were obtained. Conclusion: Present research reveals that swarnaprashan works as an immune-modulator which decreased the morbidity rate and therefore can be a simple remedy to bring down the morbidity rate in children.

Objectives: Early childhood under 5 years of age is a period of life with a high level of morbidity. Respiratory, gastrointestinal, and other infections are the most common morbidities in this age group. The present study aims to find out the morbidity pattern of under-5-year children in Jaipur and estimate the association between and also determine the factors affecting these conditions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1007 under 5-year children based on a duly prepared survey pro forma. Mothers and head of family of children between under5 years of age were enquired about the morbidity in the past 3 months. Results: In the present study, cough (34.4%), fever (27.7%), nutrition anemia (24.8%), malnutrition (22.8%), flu (19.5%), hard stool (18.8%), and diarrhea (11.1%) were common morbidities observed among under-five children. The following variables were significantly associated (P < 0.05) with the variable “morbidity:” age (year), height (cm), head circumference (cm), vaccination scar, duration of breastfeeding, birth order, and poor general hygiene. Conclusion: There was an association between morbidity and age, height, head circumference, vaccination duration of breastfeeding, and poor hygiene and no relationship found between socioeconomic status and other factors such as amenities, education of parents, and family size.

Higher education institutions, adapting to diverse student needs, utilize Student Evaluation of Teaching (SET) to gather feedback, ensure education quality, and foster faculty professional development. The study, conducted with 60 teachers from six private universities of Karachi, revealed a positive but statistically non-significant correlation between SET and instructional quality. Similarly, the correlation between SET and faculty development was positive but not statistically significant. Conversely, a strong and statistically significant positive correlation existed between faculty development and instructional quality, underscoring the pivotal role of faculty development in enhancing instructional quality. In this study, the importance of a comprehensive evaluation system that integrates student feedback with robust faculty development initiatives to enhance the teaching and learning environment in higher education was emphasized. The study recommended comprehensive faculty training programmes, regular updates to SET instruments, diverse evaluation methods, and a supportive culture that values continuous improvement. These findings contribute to shaping effective teaching practices and improving the overall higher education experience.

The engineering structures consist of machine foundations, pavement, subgrade, bridge abutment, railway track, retaining wall, and contact geo-material. These structures are subjected to ambient mechanical vibration due to dynamic loads. The mechanical vibration of the structures can be utilized for power generation using the electromechanical conversion characteristics of the piezoelectric material. This paper captures recent advances in modelling PEH (piezoelectric energy harvester) and numerical techniques for power generation from structures. The electromechanical coupling of the structures with PEH is the key factor for the voltage and power output. The coupling techniques of structures and energy harvesters are significantly affected by the variables, namely fundamental frequency, the contact pressure of loading, the geometry of the structure, moving load frequency, placement of harvester, and dynamic response of the contact material. The mode of operation of PEH (31 vs. 33 modes) significantly influences the dynamic input and power output from the structure-power generation system. The present study demonstrates the potential of power generation from mechanical vibration of geo-structures has been classified as low, moderate, and high power output. It recommends the coupling parameters for the structural design to improve the efficacy of power generation from the ambient vibration of geo-structures.

The energy harvesting from ambient vibrations in the confined granular fill along the expressways and highways is a prospective power source for varied engineering applications. This paper presents the study of charge density, voltage output, and power from the PZT (lead zirconate titanate) patches embedded in dynamically loaded confined granular fill. The effect of the alignment of PZT patches, thickness ratio, material properties of the confined granular fill, and retaining structure on the voltage output is investigated. It provides the scope for the evaluation of voltage output directly from the stress-strain response, position of the PZT patch, and the engineering properties of the confined granular fill. The alignment of PZT patches in the horizontal and vertical directions has been examined analytically to optimize voltage outputs. The results indicate that the modulus ratio of the material, alignment of PZT patches, and gradation of infill material significantly affect the voltage generation. A relationship for voltage and power output has been proposed for a set of engineering applications. The observed voltage output is found appropriate for wide-ranging implements classified as low- (LRA), medium- (MRA), and high- (HRA) resistance applications. It is proposed to be up-scaled using multiple patches embedded throughout the confined granular fill and pavements subjected to continuous dynamic loads.

Abstract Objective To determine predictors of nutritive-sucking in babies

This paper presents the effect of confined granular fill on the efficiency of embedded PZT (Lead Zirconate Titanate) patches. The experiments are carried out to capture the dynamic response of confined granular fill and voltage output. The dynamic response of the system is analysed using the fast Fourier transformation (FFT) of vibration and digital static cone penetrometer (DSCP) test at various excitation frequencies. The peak pick method is used to determine the damping loss factor and natural frequency. The efficiency of voltage generation of embedded PZT patches is influenced by the depth of embedment, excitation frequency, location, and engineering properties of the confined granular fill. The results show that the influence of vibration frequency and placement of PZT on the output voltage should be considered. The thickness and engineering properties of granular soil affect the efficiency of voltage output. This study emphasizes the utility of PZT patches in the subgrade and structural health monitoring of various geotechnical structures.

The analysis of variance confirmed that the average sum of squares was significant for lesion length (cm). Genetic diversity as well as structure of population between genotypes of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. & Coss.] resistant to Sclerotinia stem rot [Sclerotinia selerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary] was carried out using simple sequence repeats (SSRs). A total of 114 alleles were generated via 48 polymorphic primers, with mean value of 2.38 alleles per primer. The average value of PIC and the mean gene expected heterozygosity/diversity (He) value from all the polymorphic primers were 0.43 and 0.50, respectively. All the 16 genotypes were categorized into three major clusters depending on Jaccard's dissimilarity coefficients. Evanno method for population structure revealed the presence of three populations (SP1, SP2 and SP3) at maximum ∆K. SP1 mainly comprised of resistant/highly resistant genotypes. These findings indicate the existence of ample amount of genetic variability between all the Indian mustard genotypes that could be exploited in future breeding programs to develop Sclerotinia stem rot resistant mustard cultivars.

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is an important fruit cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Being a climacteric fruit it has very high respiration and deterioration rates (shelf-life 3-4 days), making a challenge for storage. Therefore, the present experiment was conducted during 2016–17 to reduce the post-harvest losses and extension of shelf-life of guava fruits var. Hisar Surkha using the combination of selenium and chitosan treatments. The mature green freshly harvested guava fruits were treated with selenium solutions (0.01 ppm, 0.02 ppm, and 0.05 ppm) in combination with 1.5% chitosan containing 0.5% acetic acid for 5 min and stored at room temperature (20±2°C, 82±5% RH). The fruits were analyzed for physico-chemical attributes (physiological weight loss, fruit firmness, total soluble solids, and titratable acidity) and biochemical characteristics (total phenolic, flavonoid contents, and total antioxidant activity) at three days interval. The combined treatments of selenium and chitosan helped in delaying weight loss (9.66%), lower disease incidence, better retention of fruit firmness (4.70 kg/cm2), soluble solids (13.03 ºBrix), titratable acidity (0.38%) compared to control on 12th day of storage. Treatment of guava fruits with selenium and chitosan also maintained higher total phenols (24.99 mg GAE /g dry wt.), flavonoids (3.51 mg CE/g dry wt.) and exhibited higher antioxidant activity (54.32%) throughout storage. The present study showed that combination of Se (0.02 ppm) and chitosan (1.5%) was most effective in maintaining post-harvest quality and enhance the shelf life of guava fruits up to 12 days during storage at room temperature.

Understanding the mode of gene action that controls seed yield and Sclerotinia stem rot resistance in Indian mustard is critical for boosting yield potential. In a line × tester mating design, ten susceptible lines and four resistant testers were used to conduct genetic analysis. The significance of general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) variances revealed that both additive and non-additive gene actions were involved in the inheritance of Sclerotinia stem rot resistance and yield attributing traits. In addition to 1000-seed weight and number of primary and secondary branches/plant, the genotypes RH 1569 (line) and DRMR 2035 (tester) appeared to be the strongest general combiners for Sclerotinia stem rot resistance. RH 1657 × EC 597317 was the only cross among several that demonstrated a significant desired SCA value for Sclerotinia rot resistance. Regarding SCA effects for yield and component traits, the cross RH 1658 × EC 597328 performed best, with a non-significant but acceptable negative SCA effect for resistance. DRMR 2035, RH 1222-28, RH 1569, RH 1599-41, RH 1657, RH 1658, and EC 597328 are promising genotypes to use as parents in future heterosis breeding and for obtaining populations with high yield potential and greater resistance to Sclerotinia stem rot disease in Indian mustard, based on GCA effects of parents, per se performance, and SCA effects of hybrids. Days to 50% flowering, number of primary branches/plant, main shoot length, and 1000-seed weight all had a high genotypic coefficient of variability (GCV), broad-sense heritability (h2bs), and genetic advance as percent of the mean (GAM) values, as well as significant and desirable correlations and direct effects on seed yield. As a result, these traits have been recognized as the most critical selection criterion for Indian mustard breeding programs.

The effect of synthesised IONPs employing a nontoxic leaf extract of Azadirachta indica as a reducing, capping, and stabilizing agent for increasing biogas and methane output from cattle manure during anaerobic digestion (AD) was investigated in this study. Furthermore, the UV-visible spectra examination of the synthesized nanoparticles revealed a high peak at 432 nm. Using a transmission electron microscope, the average particle size of IONPs observed was 30–80 nm, with irregular, ultra-small, semi-spherical shapes that were slightly aggregated and well-distributed. IONPs had a polydisparity index (PDI) of 219 nm and a zeta potential of −27.0 mV. A set of six bio-digesters were fabricated and tested to see how varying concentrations of IONPs (9, 12, 15, 18, and 21 mg/L) influenced biogas, methane output, and effluent chemical composition from AD at mesophilic temperatures (35 ± 2 °C). With 18 mg/L IONPs, the maximum specific biogas and methane production were 136.74 L/g of volatile solids (VS) and 64.5%, respectively, compared to the control (p < 0.05), which provided only 107.09 L/g and 51.4%, respectively. Biogas and methane production increased by 27.6% and 25.4%, respectively using 18 mg/L IONPs as compared to control. In all treatments, the pH of the effluent was increased, while total volatile fatty acids, total solids, volatile solids, organic carbon content, and dehydrogenase activity decreased. Total solid degradation was highest (43.1%) in cattle manure + 18 mg/L IONPs (T5). According to the results, the IONPs enhanced the yield of biogas and methane when compared with controls.

Drought stress is considered to be a major factor responsible for reduced agricultural productivity, because it is often linked to other major abiotic stresses, such as salinity and heat stress. Understanding drought-tolerance mechanisms is important for crop improvement. Moreover, under drought conditions, it is possible that growth regulators are able to protect the plants. Brassinosteroids not only play a regulatory role in plant growth, but also organize defense mechanisms against various tresses. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of brassinolide on physio-biochemical amendment in two contrasting cultivars (drought-tolerant RH 725, and drought-sensitive RH 749) of Brassica juncea under drought stress. Two foliar sprayings with brassinolide (10 and 20 mg/L) were carried out in both cultivars (RH 725 and RH 749) at two stages—i.e., flower initiation, and 50% flowering—under stress conditions. The results clearly revealed that the activities of antioxidative enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants (carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and proline) increased significantly in RH 725 at 50% flowering, whereas 20 mg/L of brassinolide showed the most promising response. The different oxidative stress indicators (i.e., hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, and electrolyte leakage) decreased to a significant extent at 20 mg/L of brassinolide spray in RH 725 at 50% flowering. This study indicates that brassinolide intensifies the physio-biochemical attributes by improving the antioxidant system and photosynthetic efficiency in RH 725 at 50% flowering. It is assumed that enhanced production of proline, improvement of the antioxidant system, and reduction in the amount of stress indicators impart strength to the plants to combat the stress conditions.

Rationally extended shape invariant potentials in arbitrary D-dimensions are obtained by using point canonical transformation (PCT) method. The bound-state solutions of these exactly solvable potentials can be written in terms of Xm Laguerre or Xm Jacobi exceptional orthogonal polynomials. These potentials are isospectral to their usual counterparts and possess translationally shape invariance property.

Multivariate analysis was carried out with 20 morphological (including quantitative as well as qualitative) and five oil quality traits in 43 genotypes of Indian mustard. Principal factor analysis led to the identification of nine principal components (PCs) which explained about 77% variability. The first principal component (PC1) explained 16.65% of the total variation. The remaining PC’s explained progressively lesser and lesser of the total variation. Varimax Rotation enabled loading of similar type of variables on a common principal factor (PF) permitting to designate them as seed yield and component traits, leaf, oil and its quality factors. Based on PF scores, the genotypes viz., RH(OE)0801, EC597320, EC597341, EC597344, EC592579, EC592584 and JM6014(YS) have been identified superior for seed yield/plant, while the genotypes JM6009, JM6011, EC697334 and ZEM-1were found superior for oil content. Similarly, the genotypes JM6009, NUDBYJ-10, Pusa Mustard-21, RLC-2 and ZEM-2 showed superiority for erucic acid, whereas genotypes JM6004(YS), JM6026 and EC552583 exhibited superiority for glucosinolate content. These genotypes may further be utilized in breeding programmes for evolving mustard varieties having high seed yield and oil content; and with superior oil quality. Hierarchical cluster analysis resulted into eight clusters containing one to 16 genotypes. The results of cluster and principal factor analyses confirmed each other.

Plant-derived antioxidants are a large group of natural products with the capacity to reduce radical-scavenging. Due to their potent therapeutic and preventive actions, these compounds receive a lot of attention from scientists, particularly pharmacologists. The pharmacological activities of the Azima tetracantha Lam. (AT) plant, belonging to the Salvadoraceae family, reported here justifies its traditional use in treating several diseases or disorders. This study aims to look at the propensity of certain plant compounds found in natural AT plant extracts that might play a critical role as a secondary metabolite in cervical cancer treatment. There is a shortage of information on the plant’s phytochemical and biological characteristics. Methanol (MeOH) solvent extracts of the dried AT plant were screened phytochemically. Its aqueous extract was tested for antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancerous properties. Absorption Distribution Metabolism and Excretion (ADME/T), Docking, and HPLC were also performed. In clinical treatment, the plant shown no adverse effects. The antioxidant activity was evaluated and showed the highest concentration at 150 µg/mL (63.50%). MeOH leaf extract of AT exhibited the highest and best inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus (15.3 mm/1000) and displayed a high antiseptic potential. At a 200 µg/mL concentration, MeOH leaves-extract inhibited red blood cells (RBC) hemolysis by 66.56 ± 0.40, compared with 62.33 ± 0.40 from the standard. Albumin’s ability to suppress protein denaturation ranged from 16.75 ± 0.65 to 62.35 ± 0.20 inhibitions in this test, providing even more support for its favorable anti-inflammatory properties. The ADME/T studies were considered for a potential cancer drug molecule, and one of our compounds from MeOH extract fills the ADME and toxicity parameters. The forms of compound 4 showed a strong hydrogen-bonding interaction with the vital amino acids (ASN923, THR410, LEU840TRY927, PHE921, and GLY922). A total of 90% of cell inhibition was observed when HeLa cell lines were treated with 300 µg/mL of compound 4 (7-acetyl-3a1-methyl- 4,14-dioxo-1,2,3a,3a1,4,5,5a,6,8a,9b,10,11,11a-tetradecahydro-2,5a epoxy5,6a (methanooxymethano)phenaleno[1′,9′:5,6,7]indeno[1,7a-b]oxiren-2-yl acetate). The polyphenol compounds demonstrated significant advances in anticancer drug properties, and it could lead to activation of cancer cell apoptosis.

Many pathogenic viral pandemics have caused threats to global health; the COVID-19 pandemic is the latest. Its transmission is growing exponentially all around the globe, putting constraints on the health system worldwide. A novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), causes this pandemic. Many candidate vaccines are available at this time for COVID-19, and there is a massive international race underway to procure as many vaccines as possible for each country. However, due to heavy global demand, there are strains in global vaccine production. The use of a plant biotechnology-based expression system for vaccine production also represents one part of this international effort, which is to develop plant-based heterologous expression systems, virus-like particles (VLPs)-vaccines, antiviral drugs, and a rapid supply of antigen-antibodies for detecting kits and plant origin bioactive compounds that boost the immunity and provide tolerance to fight against the virus infection. This review will look at the plant biotechnology platform that can provide the best fight against this global pandemic.

The arbuscular mycorrhiza fungus (AMF) (Glomus mosseae) is a beneficial microorganism used in agriculture as an efficient tool to improve plant growth and nutrition by inducing symbiotic association with crops. The present investigation was conducted to study the contribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus to drought tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown under normal irrigated conditions and in water stress created by withholding irrigation at jointing and heading stage under net house environment. Wheat seeds of two wheat varieties WH 1025 and WH 1105 were grown in pots after treatment with or without the AMF. Under water stress conditions, the wheat variety WH 1025 performed better in terms of growth and yield attributes as compared to WH 1105. The results obtained showed a significant improvement by AMF on plant height, number of productive tillers, spike length, number of spikelet, grain/spike, grain weight/spike and test weight under both irrigated and drought stress condition. Biomass and grain yields were higher in plants treated with mycorrhiza than non-mycorrhizal plants of both the varieties irrespective of soil moisture. Therefore, the results suggest that mycorrhizal inoculation play a vital role in improving growth and yield in wheat by reducing the effects of drought stress and sustain the wheat crop under the semi-arid environments.

The current analysis examines the efficiency of a composite with polymer matrix reinforced with carbon fibre and graphene at the micro and nano level respectively as an alternative material for aluminium components of Orthotic callipers. An attempt has been made to use both the carbon fibre and graphene as hybrid reinforcement with the matrix as epoxy resin. The addition of graphene and carbon fibre was 2% and 10% respectively by weight of epoxy. Dispersion of graphene was carried out using an ultrasonic sonicator and carbon fibres were a reinforced using hand lay-up technique. The total fabrication was carried out under vacuum to ensure void-free test samples. The samples were tested under tension and 3 Point Bending condition to estimate the Tensile and Flexural properties, under permissible load and deflection criteria. The results found were then compared with presently used material for orthotic callipers extensively used by amputees suffering from the locomotive, gait issues, and polio-affected survivors. The proposed composite showed higher strength, lower deformation and higher stiffness with a lower weight-to-volume ratio as compared to presently used material, i.e. aluminium.

Background: Sport science studies applications of scientific principles and techniques with the aim of improving sports performance. Objective: Present research work was carried out with the aim to enhance the sport performance of children. Materials and Methods: Randomized double blind placebo controlled study was conducted in children involved in sports to assess the efficacy of trial drug "Vidarikandadi Yog". Total of 72 healthy students were selected for the study after screening 412 students. Out of them, 60 students completed the study. The students were randomly divided into two groups. Group A (Vidarikandadi Yog) comprising of 38 and Group B (placebo) of 34 students. The trial drug "Vidarikandadi Yog" was given in the dose of 200 mg/kg/day in two divided doses for 2 months with milk and follow up was conducted fortnightly. Results: The study revealed the statistically significant results for weight and chest circumference, whereas highly significant results were obtained for muscular strength and endurance assessment parameters (Push-up Test, Sit-up Test, and Hand Grip Strength Test). Change in Ruler Drop Test was not significant. Results were significant for cardio-respiratory parameters (Resting Heart Rate, Resting Respiratory Rate, and Harvard Step Test). Conclusion: Vidarikandadi Yog is a potential drug for enhancing the sport performance due to its Brinhaneeya effect.