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Introduction The Gonds tribe, indigenous to the Sonbhadra region in Uttar Pradesh, India, faces unique challenges and disparities in women’s health, particularly in the domains of menstrual health, pregnancy, and postpregnancy care. This study aims to shed light on the demographic patterns of these critical aspects of women’s health among the Gonds tribe, providing valuable insights for healthcare interventions and policy development. Aim This study explores the demographic and socioeconomic factors affecting Gond women’s health, focusing on menstrual hygiene and life stages before, during, and after pregnancy. Methodology We collected data on menstruation wellness behaviors, pregnancy experiences, and postpregnancy care by conducting an extensive survey among Gonds women in the Sonbhadra area. In addition, focus groups and qualitative interviews were used to acquire greater knowledge of the socioeconomic and social factors impacting these health-distinctive characteristics. Result The Chi-square test shows no significant link between age group and menstrual hygiene product use. Young women (under 18) mostly use cotton cloth (56%). Women aged 18–49 prefer cotton cloth (53.2%). Women 50+ use cotton cloth (43.2%), cotton (29.7%), and sanitary napkins (27%). Marital status affects product use and cycle regularity. Cultural beliefs and education influence healthcare decisions. Menstrual hygiene mainly involves cotton cloth (45%) and cotton (26.1%). Conclusion In conclusion, our analysis uncovers key insights: Marital status, healthcare access, education, cultural beliefs, and reproductive health practices influence community healthcare decisions. These findings inform tailored interventions to enhance health outcomes and equity.

Nanotechnology is an innovative method of elevating agricultural output without sacrificing quality due to nanoparticles (NPs) unique characteristics and numerous potential uses. It is also nature-friendly, advantageous to living organisms, and cost-effective. Sustainable agricultural practices are gaining attention on NPs and nanofertilizers (NFs) as practical substitutes for traditional fertilizers and pesticides that nanotechnology could surpass some of the issues with traditional farming methods. There should be an emphasis on cutting-edge studies of NPs applications in agriculture. This article presents a positive perspective on the mechanisms leading to the formation of NPs and their application as NFs for managing nutrients in agriculture. We also share up-to-date findings on NPs interactions with plants, the fate of NPs and potential risks associated with them in plants. The as well as on the role of NPs nanomaterials in decreasing abiotic and heavy metal toxicity stress. NFs help reduce the environmental damage caused by traditional, inorganic fertilizers. Due to their enhanced responsiveness and ability to pierce the epidermis, NFs can decrease nutrient surplus while increasing nutrient usage efficiency. It was also established that NPs are essential for protecting against abiotic stress. However, some studies have shown that NPs are harmful to higher plants because the NPs they are deposited upon the surface of cells or in the cell organelles, leading to oxidative stress symptoms. In this review article, we explore the utilization of NPs for nutrient and abiotic stress management for crop production and protection during the climate change era.

It has been observed that lung cancer either non-small cell or small cell is responsible for eye metastases. This form of metastases in several cases was the first manifestation of the disease, and further investigation led to the diagnosis of the underlying malignancy. The clinical symptoms resulting from choroidal metastasis from lung cancer are easily detected although they are rarely identified before the diagnosis of the primary malignancy. The quality of life of patients is inevitably impaired. Some lung cancer patients complain of ocular symptoms as the first manifestation of lung cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly overcome or delay the visual impairment and improve the prognosis. The eye is a rare site for lung cancer metastasis. Indeed, ocular metastasis is one of the greatest challenges to the quality of life of a cancer patient. Here, we present a case of a young patient with ocular complaints and later on diagnosed with a primary lung adenocarcinoma and ocular metastasis.

Protein isolates from pumpkin seeds were prepared and then treated with high-intensity ultrasound (HIUS) using a probe-based method. The impact of ultrasonication on the physicochemical, molecular, and thermal properties of these isolates were analyzed and compared to untreated controls. Results showed significant improvements (p ≤ 0.05) in color (L*, a*, b* values), solubility, emulsification capacity, and stability, as well as a reduction in molecular weight, indicating enhanced functionality of the pumpkin seed protein isolates (PSPIs) after HIUS treatment. However, HIUS treatment decreased the denaturation temperature (Td), denaturation enthalpy (ΔH), thermal stability, and particle size of the isolates. With treatment durations ranging from 5 to 20 min, Td dropped from 67.31 °C to 56.38 °C, and ΔH declined from 45.78 to 35.43 J/g, likely due to structural and conformational modifications from ultrasonic-induced molecular bond disruptions. The greatest reduction in particle size, from 117.46 μm to 85.26 μm, was observed after 20 min of ultrasonication. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed two distinct diffraction peaks at 2θ = 10° and 2θ = 20°, indicating altered crystallite sizes post-ultrasound treatment. Ultrasonication induced structural and conformational changes in the pumpkin seed protein isolates, as confirmed by SDS-PAGE and weight loss analyses. Alterations in the SDS-PAGE profile and reduced weight loss were associated with improved solubility and enhanced thermal and functional properties in the treated pumpkin seed protein isolates. This emphasizes the potential of PSPI to increase their value-added potential through ultrasonication.

Blepharochalasis syndrome is a condition of the eyelids consisting of episodic inflammation and chronic skin changes. It is usually bilateral and tends to manifest in the upper eyelids. But, there are cases of unilateral presentation also which exclusively affects the lower eyelids. There are multiple theories regarding the etiology of blepharochalasis. Blepharochalasis is believed to be a manifestation of angioneurotic edema. Hormonal changes may play an important role in the disease process. Immunohistochemical analysis of excised eyelid skin has demonstrated the presence of IgA in several studies. These findings suggest that there may be a concomitant inflammatory process accompanying the extravasations’ of fluid and localized edema occurring at the capillary level. Blepharochalasis might also present as part of systemic disease. The disease, lichen planus pigmentosus, is a variant of lichen planus and has also been noted the presence of IgA and IgG along with complement C3 in the epidermal cells in several studies.

Capping agents are widely employed to stabilize the synthesized nanoparticles. To address the problems associated with the chemical capping agents and agglomeration of nanoparticles in the chemical and physical methods, green synthesis methods based upon the usage of biodegradable, well-dispersed capping agents have widely been used. In this work, TiO2 was synthesized by simple sol–gel method and a green capping agent, potato starch has been used. Potato starch consist of two basic biopolymers i.e. amylose (∼20 %) and amylopectin (∼80 %), that binds through the functional groups viz. hydroxyl, carboxylic or amino groups with the metal cations to prevent agglomeration of the growing NPs. The structure and morphology of the synthesized TiO2 were characterized by FTIR and XRD, where the XRD patterns confirmed the anatase phase of TiO2. From the Tauc’s plot, the band-gap of un-capped and differently capped TiO2 was obtained. Potato starch-capped TiO2 coated with the Ru dye (N719) revealed photoelectric conversion efficiency of 2.58 % under illumination of 100 mW/cm2, that was much upgraded compared to the performance with the un-capped TiO2 (1.84 %). The EIS studies revealed the kinetic parameters. The illustrated results showed that potato starch-capped TiO2 have greater potential in enhancing the DSSC efficiency.

ABSTRACTThe growing emergence of resistance to current anti-theilerial agents necessitates the exploration of alternative approaches to drug discovery. This study evaluated the antiparasitic efficacy of 148 compounds derived from an epigenetic inhibitor library against the schizont stage of a Theileria annulata-infected cell line. Initial screening at a concentration of 10 µM identified 27 compounds exhibiting promising anti-theilerial activity. Further investigation, including determination of the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) and host cell cytotoxicity assay, highlighted seven highly effective compounds (SAHA, BVT-948, Trichostatin A, Methylstat, Plumbagin, Ryuvidine, and TCE-5003) against T. annulata-infected cells. Analysis of the active compounds revealed their inhibitory action against various human targets, such as HDAC (SAHA and Trichostatin A), SET domain (Ryuvidine), PRMT (BVT-948 and TCE-5003), histone demethylase (Methylstat), and ROS/apoptosis inducer (Plumbagin). We identified gene orthologs of these targets in Theileria and conducted molecular docking studies, demonstrating effective binding of the compounds with their respective targets in the parasite, supported by in vitro data. Additionally, we performed in silico ADME/T predictions, which indicated potential mutagenic and hepatotoxic effects of Plumbagin, Methylstat, and TCE-5003, rendering them unsuitable for drug development. Conversely, SAHA, Trichostatin A, and BVT-948 showed promising characteristics and may represent potential candidates for future development as chemotherapeutic agents against tropical theileriosis. These findings provide valuable insights into the search for novel anti-theilerial drugs and offer a basis for further research in this area.IMPORTANCETheileria annulata is a protozoan parasite responsible for tropical theileriosis, a devastating disease affecting cattle. Traditional chemotherapy has limitations, and the study explores the potential of epidrugs as an alternative treatment approach. Epidrugs are compounds that modify gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence, offering a novel way to combat parasitic infections. This research is pivotal as it addresses the urgent need for innovative therapies against T. annulata, contributing to the development of more effective and targeted treatments for infected livestock. Successful implementation of epidrugs could not only enhance the well-being of cattle but also have broader implications for the control of parasitic diseases, showcasing the paper’s significance in advancing veterinary science and improving livestock health globally.

The current study aimed to assess and compare the bacteriological spectrum of acute and chronic dacryocystitis and the antibiotic susceptibility and resistance of the causative pathogens to commonly used antimicrobials. This was a prospective observational study. Cases of dacryocystitis were categorized as acute or chronic, based on clinical features. Specimens were obtained by sterile cotton swabs from the lower conjunctival fornix and from the puncta by applying pressure over the lacrimal sac area or by performing lacrimal syringing. Specimens were inoculated on appropriate culture media and incubated at 37ºC for 24-48 hours. Bacterial species were identified based on colony morphology and standard biochemical tests. Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing was assessed by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique using Mueller Hinton agar following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Out of 50 patients, 37 (74%) had chronic dacryocystitis and 13 (26%) had acute dacryocystitis. 35 bacterial species were recovered. Gram-positive organisms were the most isolated organisms i.e., 27 out of 35 (77.2%). In chronic dacryocystitis, the predominant bacterial species were Staphylococcus epidermidis (36%). In acute dacryocystitis, the predominant bacterial species were Staphylococcus aureus (40%). Against gram-positive organisms, Vancomycin and Linezolid were most effective (100%). Against gram-negative bacterial species, Amikacin was most effective (100%). High prevalence rate of antibiotic resistance was found, with 40% of the total bacterial species resistant to 5 or more antibiotics. The alarming rate of multi-drug resistance underscores the imperative need for tailored antibiotic strategies and continuous monitoring. Evidence based antibiotic therapy may also help to prevent failures of DCR, progression to chronicity and antibiotic resistance.

Multi-Terminal-High Voltage Direct Current (MT-HVDC) transmission lines are used to transmit electricity over long distances with lower losses compared to traditional Alternating Current (AC) transmission lines. However, HVDC transmission lines have limitations in terms of their ability to handle AC system faults and the need for expensive AC/DC converters at each end of the line. To address these limitations, a hybrid AC/MT-HVDC transmission line can be used. This type of transmission line combines the benefits of both AC and DC transmission, allowing for more efficient and reliable operation. In this article, an Enhanced-Fish Swarm Optimizer (E-FSO) is presented for the efficient maintenance of hybrid AC/MT-HVDC transmission lines. An external repository is included in the proposed E-FSO to preserve that is not dominant. Additionally, fuzzy decision-making is used to choose the hybrid AC/HVDC transmission lines' optimal compromise operating point. In these systems, in addition to the complete control of AC line through parameters for the dedicated generators and transformers connections, and Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR) compensations, the Voltage Source Converters (VSCs) action and response controllable voltage is engaged. The outcomes of the experiment show the efficacy and dominance of the suggested algorithm, which has high stability indices compared to several competitive algorithms. Nevertheless, the suggested E-FSO is effective in producing a compromise operating point that satisfies the operator's needs while also obtaining well-diversified solutions.

Abstract Background Bovine theileriosis caused by the eukaryotic parasite Theileria annulata is an economically important tick-borne disease. If it is not treated promptly, this lymphoproliferative disease has a significant fatality rate. Buparvaquone (BPQ) is the only chemotherapy-based treatment available right now. However, with the emergence of BPQ resistance on the rise and no backup therapy available, it is critical to identify imperative drugs and new targets against Theileria parasites. Methods Artemisinin and its derivatives artesunate (ARS), artemether (ARM), or dihydroartemisinin (DHART) are the primary defence line against malaria parasites. This study has analysed artemisinin and its derivatives for their anti-Theilerial activity and mechanism of action. Results ARS and DHART showed potent activity against the Theileria-infected cells. BPQ in combination with ARS or DHART showed a synergistic effect. The compounds act specifically on the parasitised cells and have minimal cytotoxicity against the uninfected host cells. Treatment with ARS or DHART induces ROS-mediated oxidative DNA damage leading to cell death. Further blocking intracellular ROS by its scavengers antagonised the anti-parasitic activity of the compounds. Increased ROS production induces oxidative stress and DNA damage causing p53 activation followed by caspase-dependent apoptosis in the Theileria-infected cells. Conclusions Our findings give unique insights into the previously unknown molecular pathways underpinning the anti-Theilerial action of artemisinin derivatives, which may aid in formulating new therapies against this deadly parasite. Video abstract

Background: Drug utilization studies are powerful exploratory tools for establishing the role of drugs in society and also effective methods for assessing the prescribing pattern of clinicians. Around 4-10% of children suffer at least one seizure episode at 16 years of age. Even after the availability of several Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), choosing the correct drug with accurate dosing will produce seizure-free generation. Hence, this study aims to examine the prescription patterns of drugs in epileptic children. Methods: This study was a cross sectional observational study. Children

Background: Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae or Mycobacterium lepromatosis and mainly affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Although treatable, its early intervention can significantly reduce the occurrence of disability. India accounts for more than half of new cases globally. This study was undertaken to better understand the clinical traits of newly diagnosed cases in a tertiary facility of Western Uttar Pradesh, and a few from Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Methods: The observational prospective study was carried out on all the newly diagnosed leprosy cases who visited the Outpatient Department of ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases, Agra, during October 2019–December 2022. After obtaining answers to a prestructured questionnaire with their consent, participants were enrolled in the study and underwent clinical examination and a slit-skin smear test. Results: A total of 56 cases were investigated, and among them, 20 (35.7%) and 36 (64.3%) women and men, respectively, had positive contact with persons affected by leprosy either within family, friends, or neighbors. It is observed that due to the delayed detection of leprosy cases, paucibacillary (PB) patients converted into multibacillary (MB) patients, and the number of MB cases is much higher compared to PB cases. Conclusion: Leprosy instances continue to spread frequently from sick to healthy people indicating continued transmission of leprosy in society. Multidrug therapy in the management of leprosy cases is effective; however, early diagnosis of PB cases is still a challenge and needs to be addressed on priority.

The functions of specific lipids in autophagosome biogenesis are not entirely clear. Here, the authors show that the ER protein GRAMD1C, a cholesterol transport protein, suppresses autophagy initiation and has roles in mitochondrial cholesterol homeostasis and respiration.

Objective: To study the effect of pentoxifylline versus placebo on venous leg ulcers with and without compression therapy. Methods and Methodology: Prospective study of factorial design, permitting the simultaneous evaluation of alternative pharmaceutical, bandaging, and dressings materials. The study took place at the Department of General Surgery, I.G.I.M.S., Patna. A total of 40 patients with confirmed venous ulcers were included, after excluding other major causal factors. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either pentoxifylline or placebo. The main outcome measure was the complete healing (full epithelialization) of all ulcers on the study leg. Results: Among the patients receiving placebo, 10 out of 19 (53%) achieved complete healing, while among those receiving pentoxifylline, 14 out of 21 (64%) achieved complete healing. Conclusions: The study found no significant difference in healing rates between patients taking pentoxifylline and those receiving placebo. Recommendation: It is compression therapy that heals the ulcer, not the dressing, so wherever possible the primary dressing of choice should be a simple knitted viscose one. This recommendation may not apply if the wound has high levels of exudate or slough.

Background: Objectives: Childhood obesity is a growing concern in India, particularly in low and middle-income populations, is expected to account for 11% of the global burden of child obesity by 2030. Methods: To address this issue, a meta-analysis was conducted to determine the prevalence of childhood obesity in India over the past two decades and identify socioeconomic correlates of obesity in children. Results: A meta-analysis of 21 studies from 2003 to 2023 with 1,86,901 children in India identified key findings on childhood obesity after screening 2147 titles/abstracts. The pooled prevalence of childhood obesity was estimated to be 8.4%, while the prevalence of childhood overweight was estimated to be 12.4%. Male children were found to be at a higher risk of developing obesity compared to female children. Significant heterogeneity was observed among the studies. The study also examined the correlates of obesity with respect to socioeconomic characteristics. It was found that children studying in private schools were at a higher risk of developing obesity compared to those studying in government schools. Children of working women were found to be at a higher risk of obesity compared to children of non-working women. Additionally, children with a family history of obesity were at an increased risk of developing obesity. Conclusion: Childhood obesity in India is a pressing public health concern. The study reveals regional and population variations in obesity prevalence and identifies genetic, behavioural, environmental, and socioeconomic factors as contributors. Further research is required to comprehend these factors and establish effective prevention and management approaches.

Background: Emergency hernia repair is technically very challenging and involves a very high risk of post-operative infectious complications in case of incarcerated incisional hernias in association with bowel obstruction which is due to its edematous, inflammatory, and friable tissues. The study's prime objective was to prospectively assess the wound-related morbidity in using permanent prosthetic mesh in an emergency laparotomy of an incarcerated incisional hernia with a corresponding intestinal obstruction. We also go over a novel method of leaving the mesh exposed for the formation of granulation tissue. Methods: Emergency laparotomy was performed on sixty patients with incarcerated incisional hernias associated with intestinal obstructions to place the permanent prosthetic mesh. In fifty-three patients hernia was repaired and the wound was sutured, but in seven individuals, it was left open to granulate. Results: 9 patients had superficial surgical site infections, 3 had deep wound infections, and 2 patients suffered from cellulitis which was seen in the group of patients where the wound was closed primarily. These patients underwent both wound debridement and antibiotics were administered. 2 patients required the removal of the mesh placed. In the group of patients who had their surgical wounds left exposed, there were no infections. On the 7th postoperative day, a patient in this group passed away from septicemia. Conclusion: In obstructed incisional hernia patient who was treated in emergency with permanent prosthetic mesh the wound infection was quite high on a contaminated field.

The presence of dye in wastewater causes substantial threats to the environment, and has negative impacts not only on human health but also on the health of other organisms that are part of the ecosystem. Because of the increase in textile manufacturing, the inhabitants of the area, along with other species, are subjected to the potentially hazardous consequences of wastewater discharge from textile and industrial manufacturing. Different types of dyes emanating from textile wastewater have adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Various methods including physical, chemical, and biological strategies are applied in order to reduce the amount of dye pollution in the environment. The development of economical, ecologically acceptable, and efficient strategies for treating dye-containing wastewater is necessary. It has been shown that microbial communities have significant potential for the remediation of hazardous dyes in an environmentally friendly manner. In order to improve the efficacy of dye remediation, numerous cutting-edge strategies, including those based on nanotechnology, microbial biosorbents, bioreactor technology, microbial fuel cells, and genetic engineering, have been utilized. This article addresses the latest developments in physical, chemical, eco-friendly biological and advanced strategies for the efficient mitigation of dye pollution in the environment, along with the related challenges.

Background: In the present scenario the entire healthcare system has been overburdened with chronic wounds be it monetary wise or manpower requirements like nurses, doctors, etc. A chronic wound is being treated by many topical drugs which are prevailing in the market. So we considered this study i.e. “the effect of cadexomer and providone iodine on chronic leg ulcers”. Objective: The main and primary objective of this study was to compare the outcome of both, Cadexomer and povidone-iodine, about their effect on the treatment of leg ulcers. Methods: With 30 patients in each group, 30 patients with chronic wounds participated in this prospective study. As part of the statistical analysis, Pearson's Correlation Coefficient and the Student's Paired T-Test are used. Results: Patients who received cadexomer iodine ointment had a significantly (p

Abstract Background Ovarian cancer is the world’s dreaded disease and its prevalence is expanding globally. The study of integrated molecular networks is crucial for the basic mechanism of cancer cells and their progression. During the present investigation, we have examined different flavonoids that target protein kinases B (AKT1) protein which exerts their anticancer efficiency intriguing the role in cross-talk cell signalling, by metabolic processes through in-silico approaches. Method Molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) was performed to analyze and evaluate the stability of the complexes under physiological conditions and the results were congruent with molecular docking. This investigation revealed the effect of a point mutation (W80R), considered based on their frequency of occurrence, with AKT1 protein. Results The ligand with high docking scores and favourable behaviour on dynamic simulations are proposed as potential W80R inhibitors. A virtual screening analysis was performed with 12,000 flavonoids satisfying Lipinski’s rule of five according to which drug-likeness is predicted based on its pharmacological and biological properties to be active and taken orally. The pharmacokinetic ADME (adsorption, digestion, metabolism, and excretion) studies featured drug-likeness. Subsequently, a statistically significant 3D-QSAR model of high correlation coefficient (R2) with 0.822 and cross-validation coefficient (Q2) with 0.6132 at 4 component PLS (partial least square) were used to verify the accuracy of the models. Taxifolin holds good interactions with the binding domain of W80R, highest Glide score of − 9.63 kcal/mol with OH of GLU234 and H bond ASP274 and LEU156 amino acid residues and one pi-cation interaction and one hydrophobic bond with LYS276. Conclusion Natural compounds have always been a richest source of active compounds with a wide variety of structures, therefore, these compounds showed a special inspiration for medical chemists. The present study has aimed molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies on taxifolin targeting W80R mutant protein of protein kinase B/serine- threonine kinase/AKT1 (EC:2.7.11.1) protein of ovarian cancer for designing therapeutic intervention. The expected result supported the molecular cause in a mutant form which resulted in a gain of ovarian cancer. Here we discussed validations computationally and yet experimental evaluation or in vivo studies are endorsed for further study. Several of these compounds should become the next marvels for early detection of ovarian cancer.

The mechanisms involved in programmed or damage-induced removal of mitochondria by mitophagy remain elusive. Here the authors use an siRNA library to screen lipid-binding proteins, and identify the kinases GAK and PRKCD as positive regulators of PRKN-independent mitophagy.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from burning fossil fuels play a crucial role in global warming/climate change. The effective removal of CO2 from the point sources or atmosphere (CO2 capture), its conversion to value-added products (CO2 utilization), and long-term geological storage, or CO2 sequestration, has captured the attention of several researchers and policymakers. This review paper illustrates all kinds of CO2 capture/separation processes and the challenges faced in deploying these technologies. This review described the research efforts put forth in gas separation technologies. Recent advances in the existing gas separation technologies have been highlighted, and future directives for commercial deployment have also been outlined.

Accurate quantification based on nucleic acid amplification is necessary to avoid the spread of pathogens, making early diagnosis essential. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) stands out for absolute parasite quantification because it combines microfluidics with the TaqMan test. This helps deliver maximum accuracy without needing a reference curve. This study assessed the efficacy of ddPCR as a detection tool for the bovine theileriosis (BT) caused by Theileria parasites. We developed and validated a duplex ddPCR method that detects and quantifies the Theileria genus (18S rRNA) and identifies clinically significant Theileria annulata parasites (TaSP) in experimental and clinical samples. ddPCR was shown to be as effective as qPCR throughout a 10-fold sample dilution range. However, ddPCR was more sensitive than qPCR at lower parasite DNA concentrations and reliably assessed up to 8.5 copies/µL of the TaSP gene in the infected DNA (0.01 ng) samples. The ddPCR was very accurate and reproducible, and it could follow therapeutic success in clinical cases of theileriosis. In conclusion, our ddPCR assays were highly sensitive and precise, providing a valuable resource for the study of absolute parasite quantification, drug treatment monitoring, epidemiological research, large-scale screening, and the identification of asymptomatic parasite reservoirs in the pursuit of BT eradication.

Background: The host genetic factors play important role in determining the outcome of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an important host cytokine, which is a key regulator of innate immune system. Genetic variants in MIF gene have been found to be associated with several inflammatory and infectious diseases. Role of MIF is well documented in leishmaniasis diseases, including Indian visceral leishmaniasis, where elevated level of serum MIF has been associated with VL phenotypes. However, there was no genetic study to correlate MIF variants in VL, therefore, we aimed to study the possible association of three reported MIF gene variants −794 CATT, −173G > C and non-coding RNA gene LOC284889 in Indian VL phenotype. Methods: Study subjects comprised of 214 VL patients along with ethnically and demographically matched 220 controls from VL endemic regions of Bihar state in India. Results: We found no significant difference between cases and controls in allelic, genotypic and haplotype frequency of the markers analysed [-794 CATT repeats (χ2 = 0.86; p = 0.35; OR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.61–1.19); −173 G > C polymorphism (χ2 = 1.11; p = 0.29; OR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.59–1.16); and LOC284889 (χ2 = 0.78; p = 0.37; OR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.61–1.20)]. Conclusion: Since we did not find any significant differences between case and control groups, we conclude that sequencing of complete MIF gene and extensive study on innate and adaptive immunity genes may help in identifying genetic variations that are associated with VL susceptibility/resistance among Indians. Keywords: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF), Leishmania major, Leishmania donovani, Genetic polymorphism, Indian population

Dravet syndrome is caused by dominant loss-of-function mutations in SCN1A which cause reduced activity of Nav1.1 leading to lack of neuronal inhibition. On the other hand, gain-of-function mutations in SCN8A can lead to a severe epileptic encephalopathy subtype by over activating NaV1.6 channels. These observations suggest that Nav1.1 and Nav1.6 represent two opposing sides of the neuronal balance between inhibition and activation. Here, we hypothesize that Dravet syndrome may be treated by either enhancing Nav1.1 or reducing Nav1.6 activity. To test this hypothesis we generated and characterized a novel DS zebrafish model and tested new compounds that selectively activate or inhibit the human NaV1.1 or NaV1.6 channel respectively. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to generate two separate Scn1Lab knockout lines as an alternative to previous zebrafish models generated by random mutagenesis or morpholino oligomers. Using an optimized locomotor assay, spontaneous burst movements were detected that were unique to Scn1Lab knockouts and disappear when introducing human SCN1A mRNA. Besides the behavioral phenotype, Scn1Lab knockouts show sudden, electrical discharges in the brain that indicate epileptic seizures in zebrafish. Scn1Lab knockouts showed increased sensitivity to the GABA antagonist pentylenetetrazole and a reduction in whole organism GABA levels. Drug screenings further validated a Dravet syndrome phenotype. We tested the NaV1.1 activator AA43279 and two novel NaV1.6 inhibitors MV1369 and MV1312 in the Scn1Lab knockouts. Both type of compounds significantly reduced the number of spontaneous burst movements and seizure activity. Our results show that selective inhibition of NaV1.6 could be just as efficient as selective activation of NaV1.1 and these approaches could prove to be novel potential treatment strategies for Dravet syndrome and other (genetic) epilepsies. Compounds tested in zebrafish however, should always be further validated in other model systems for efficacy in mammals and to screen for potential side effects.

Advances in wavefront shaping technologies have enabled minimally invasive endoscopy using a single multimode fiber (MMF) and paved way to pushing the penetration depth limit inside scattering tissue. Photoacoustic imaging and fluorescence imaging are two key enabling imaging modalities that provide excellent anatomical and functional contrast, respectively. Combining their unique advantages is desirable; however, doing so in a minimally invasive endoscope has been a challenge. Here, we present an ultrathin hybrid imaging system with a 250 mm cross section based on an optical MMF and an optical fiber hydrophone and capable of combined photoacoustic and fluorescence microscopy. A reference-free calibration, using a set of prerecorded speckle intensity patterns combined with a reconstruction algorithm, enables compressive speckle imaging with optical resolution determined by the fiber numerical aperture.

The paper hypothesises that public and counter-public spheres are rhetorically constructed and argues that the nature of rhetoric in both the spheres is dialectically construed by various agencies which on the one hand ensure the execution of public sphere rhetoric, and on the other hand, defer counter-public discourse to be implemented in practice, especially in case of sexual violence against women in India. The paper contextualises the same argument using various newspaper articles which are reflective of the ineffectiveness of the rhetorical counter-public and its consequent deferral.

In this research work, a few sets of experiments have been performed in high voltage laboratory on various cellulosic insulating materials like diamond-dotted paper, paper phenolic sheets, cotton phenolic sheets, leatheroid, and presspaper, to measure different electrical parameters like breakdown strength, relative permittivity, loss tangent, etc. Considering the dependency of breakdown strength on other physical parameters, different Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models are proposed for the prediction of breakdown strength. The ANN model results are compared with those obtained experimentally and also with the values already predicted from an empirical relation suggested by Swanson and Dall. The reported results indicated that the breakdown strength predicted from the ANN model is in good agreement with the experimental values.

BackgroundIn melanoma, like in other cancers, both genetic alterations and epigenetic underlie the metastatic process. These effects are usually measured by changes in both methylome and transcriptome profiles, whose cross-correlation remains uncertain. We aimed to assess at systems scale the significance of epigenetic treatment in melanoma cells with different metastatic potential.Methods and findingsTreatment by DAC demethylation with 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine of two melanoma cell lines endowed with different metastatic potential, SKMEL-2 and HS294T, was performed and high-throughput coupled RNA-Seq and RRBS-Seq experiments delivered differential profiles (DiP) of both transcriptomes and methylomes. Methylation levels measured at both TSS and gene body were studied to inspect correlated patterns with wide-spectrum transcript abundance levels quantified in both protein coding and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regions. The DiP were then mapped onto standard bio-annotation sources (pathways, biological processes) and network configurations were obtained. The prioritized associations for target identification purposes were expected to elucidate the reprogramming dynamics induced by the epigenetic therapy. The interactomic connectivity maps of each cell line were formed to support the analysis of epigenetically re-activated genes. i.e. those supposedly silenced by melanoma. In particular, modular protein interaction networks (PIN) were used, evidencing a limited number of shared annotations, with an example being MAPK13 (cascade of cellular responses evoked by extracellular stimuli). This gene is also a target associated to the PANDAR ncRNA, therapeutically relevant because of its aberrant expression observed in various cancers. Overall, the non-metastatic SKMEL-2 map reveals post-treatment re-activation of a richer pathway landscape, involving cadherins and integrins as signatures of cell adhesion and proliferation. Relatively more lncRNAs were also annotated, indicating more complex regulation patterns in view of target identification. Finally, the antigen maps matched to DiP display other differential signatures with respect to the metastatic potential of the cell lines. In particular, as demethylated melanomas show connected targets that grow with the increased metastatic potential, also the potential target actionability seems to depend to some degree on the metastatic state. However, caution is required when assessing the direct influence of re-activated genes over the identified targets. In light of the stronger treatment effects observed in non-metastatic conditions, some limitations likely refer to in silico data integration tools and resources available for the analysis of tumor antigens.ConclusionDemethylation treatment strongly affects early melanoma progression by re-activating many genes. This evidence suggests that the efficacy of this type of therapeutic intervention is potentially high at the pre-metastatic stages. The biomarkers that can be assessed through antigens seem informative depending on the metastatic conditions, and networks help to elucidate the assessment of possible targets actionability.

The aims of this study were to isolate, identify and characterize culturable endophytic bacteria from chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) roots grown in different soils. In addition, the effects of rhizobial inoculation, soil and stress on the functionality of those culturable endophytic bacterial communities were also investigated. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that the endophytic bacteria isolated in this work belong to the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, with Enterobacter and Pseudomonas being the most frequently observed genera. Production of indoleacetic acid and ammonia were the most widespread plant growth-promoting features, while antifungal activity was relatively rare among the isolates. Despite the fact that the majority of bacterial endophytes were salt- and Mn-tolerant, the isolates obtained from soil with Mn toxicity were generally more Mn-tolerant than those obtained from the same soil amended with dolomitic limestone. Several associations between an isolate’s genus and specific plant growth-promoting mechanisms were observed. The data suggest that soil strongly impacts the Mn tolerance of endophytic bacterial communities present in chickpea roots while rhizobial inoculation induces significant changes in terms of isolates’ plant growth-promoting abilities. In addition, this study also revealed chickpea-associated endophytic bacteria that could be exploited as sources with potential application in agriculture.

Introduction: Though we are in 21st century with nano technology & tissue printing, there still exist many lacunae in the field of diagnosis. Not much is known about prognostic markers till now from literature to assess potentially malignant lesions. Lesions so called potentially malignant can be termed only after clinical & malignant changes have been developed and there are no means of predicting with certainty the risk of cancerous transformation. Aim: Our present study was undertaken to establish the morphometric parameters of the parabasal and spinous cells of normal oral epithelium with the changes occurring in cells of Oral Leukoplakia (OL), Oral Verrucous Carcinoma (OVC) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). Materials and Methods: Total 40 patients were divided into Group I which includes patients with normal oral mucosa, group II oral leukoplakia patients, group III oral verrucous carcinoma patients and group IV includes oral squamous cell carcinoma patients. Tissue sections were taken and morphometric analysis of cell area, cell diameter, nuclear area, nuclear diameter, nuclear cytoplasmic ratio was done for parabasal and spinous layer cells. Statistical analysis was done using one-way ANOVA and T-test. Results: Nuclear diameter, nuclear area, cell area, nuclear cytoplasmic ratio were significantly increased in OL, OVC, OSCC patients than normal oral mucosa, which was statistically significant. Cell diameter was decreased in OL, OVC, OSCC patients than with normal oral mucosa which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Cellular & nuclear parameters showed statistically significant changes in oral leukoplakia, oral verrucous carcinoma & oral squamous cell carcinoma in comparison with normal oral mucosa.

BACKGROUND: Interleukin 4 (IL-4) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine, which regulates balance between T(H)1 and T(H)2 immune response, immunoglobulin class switching and humoral immunity. Polymorphisms in this gene have been reported to affect the risk of infectious and autoimmune diseases. METHODS: We have analyzed three regulatory IL-4 polymorphisms; -590C>T, -34C>T and 70 bp intron-3 VNTR, in 4216 individuals; including: (1) 430 ethnically matched case-control groups (173 severe malaria, 101 mild malaria and 156 asymptomatic); (2) 3452 individuals from 76 linguistically and geographically distinct endogamous populations of India, and (3) 334 individuals with different ancestry from outside India (84 Brazilian, 104 Syrian, and 146 Vietnamese). RESULTS: The -590T, -34T and intron-3 VNTR R2 alleles were found to be associated with reduced malaria risk (PT and -34C>T, and P = 0.003 for VNTR). These three alleles were in strong LD (r²>0.75) and the TTR2 (-590T, -34T and intron-3 VNTR R2) haplotype appeared to be a susceptibility factor for malaria (P = 0.009, OR = 0.552, 95% CI = 0.356 -0.854). Allele and genotype frequencies differ significantly between caste, nomadic, tribe and ancestral tribal populations (ATP). The distribution of protective haplotype TTR2 was found to be significant (χ²₃ = 182.95, p-value