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Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are a critical component of the Internet of Things (IoT) which can be used in various fields, including environmental monitoring, smart agriculture, etc. However, WSNs used in environmental monitoring particularly in border areas are vulnerable to various security threats caused by illegal intruders who perform eavesdropping, garnishing, gray-hole attacks, etc. to compromise the network and forge the sensitive data. A multi-level hierarchical secure and optimal routing (ML-HSOR) protocol is proposed to overcome these issues. The proposed ML-HSOR protocol has four stages: registration, clustering, authentication, and optimal routing. In the registration step, the new sensor nodes are registered with the base station (BS) using unique identities. In the clustering stage, a Markov model with adaptive weighting mechanism is used to choose the most suitable node as the cluster head (CH), enhancing network lifespan and performance. The authentication stage involves a multi-level trust evaluation to detect malicious nodes. The aggregated message and timestamp are encrypted, and finally, the optimal data transmission path is chosen based on the polarity learning-based chimp optimization algorithm (PL-COA). This approach computes node fitness based on residual energy, distance, link quality, delay, and trust, ensuring high packet delivery ratio (PDR) (99.8% for 500 nodes), high throughput (48,000 bits per second for 500 nodes), less delay (0.058s for 500 nodes), high detection rate (95%), and less energy consumption (0.39 J for 500 nodes). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper argues that a concept of rebuking God (bhagavannindā) existed as a prohibited act in premodern Sanskrit Brahmanical texts, with the earliest examples in medieval Vaiava narratives (in the Bhāgavata Purāa and Viu Purāa) of Vena and Śiśupāla. The concept of bhagavannindā problematizes the Bhāgavata Purāa rereading of the Śiśupāla story: how can someone rebuke a god (here Ka) and be seemingly rewarded (through sāyujya [union] with the god)? I argue that to this problem in Vaiava and epic narratives the Bhāgavata Purāa offers dveabhakti / vairānubandha (liberation through enmity or hatred) as a potential solution . Finally, through investigation of two early modern commentaries on the Mahābhārata, I argue that reading this concept of divine censure into the epics was not without tensions . The epic commentators sometimes reveal their own ambivalent readings of episodes where Ka is rebuked. The paper draws attention to the importance of the Bhāgavata Purāa as a commentary on the Mahābhārata, upon which later exegetes relied . It surveys how and why the peculiar concept of dveabhakti emerges in Vaianava theology and presents narrative as both the source where this orthodox concept of divine censure emerges and the site where the concept is reinforced in commentary . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inhibiting alpha-glucosidase enzyme can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it an important target in the treatment of diabetes. • Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants; these phytochemicals possess significant potential for inhibiting the alpha-glucosidase enzyme. • The integrated approach allows for virtual screening of a wide range of phytochemicals, narrowing down the candidates for experimental validation. This is a cost-effective and efficient method for identifying potential drug leads. Alpha-glucosidase is a crucial enzyme involved in carbohydrate metabolism, and inhibiting its activity holds promise for treating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to identify potential drugs that can selectively target alpha-glucosidase's essential enzyme, Maltase-glucoamylase, to discover potent antidiabetic compounds. A phytochemical library containing 2000 compounds from various plants was subjected to screening using a deep learning approach, molecular docking, ADMET, and DruliTo against the Maltase-glucoamylase enzyme. The compounds exhibiting strong binding affinity with the enzyme were further analyzed through Molecular Dynamics Simulation (MDS). MDS analysis, including (RMSD) Root Mean Square Deviation, Root Mean Square Fluctuation (RMSF), Radius of Gyration, Hydrogen-bond, and PCA, indicates that Carpaine, Pseudocarpaine, Pollinastanol, and Annosquamosin C have favorable interactions with alpha-glucosidase. Moreover, analysis of free binding energy substantiates the stability of these interactions, as evidenced by the binding energies of α-Glucosidase-Reference (-4.6 kJ/mol), α-Glucosidase-Pollinastaol (-4.7 kJ/mol), α-Glucosidase-Annosquamosoin C (-5.6 kJ/mol), α-Glucosidase-Pseudocarpaine (-8.0 kJ/mol), and α-Glucosidase-Carpaine (-10.2 kJ/mol). Based on these results, we conclude that these phytochemicals possess significant potential for inhibiting the alpha-glucosidase enzyme. The findings of this study suggest that these phytochemicals may exhibit promising inhibitory activity against α-Glucosidase and should be further investigated in vitro and in vivo experiments as potential natural resources for developing effective antidiabetic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the nexus between oil prices (Oil) and economic output (IIP) asymmetrically in the Indian context using quarterly data from 1996–1997:Q1 to 2019–2020:Q4. To this end, we have used a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model. The main findings of the study are as follows—firstly, the Wald test confirms the nonlinearities among the negative and positive shocks in Oil, EX and IR in the long run. Secondly, the NARDL model reveals that negative shock in oil price stimulate the IIP, whereas positive shock in Oil fails to influence IIP. The positive shock in EX strengthens the Indian economy by having a positive and significant impact on IIP, while the negative shock in EX is insignificant. The positive and negative shocks in IR negatively impact IIP in the long run. The study demonstrates that Oil, EX and IR exert asymmetric pressure on IIP in the long run. Concisely, India's economic output is more responsive to oil prices decrease than oil prices increase. Therefore, the asymmetric oil prices‐economic output nexus has substantial policy implications, particularly for prudent energy policy in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of a nickel(II) chloride complex containing a tridentate β‐diketiminato ligand with a picolyl group [2,6‐iPr2‐C6H3NC(Me)CHC(Me)NH(CH2py)]Ni(II)Cl (1)] with KSi(SiMe3)3 conveniently afforded a nickel(I) radical with a T‐shaped geometry (2). The compound's metalloradical nature was confirmed through electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies and its reaction with TEMPO, resulting in the formation of a highly unusual three‐membered nickeloxaziridine complex (3). When reacted with disulfide and diselenide, the S−S and Se−Se bonds were cleaved, and a coupled product was formed through carbon atom of the pyridine‐imine group. The nickel(I) radical activates dihydrogen at room temperature and atmospheric pressure to give the monomeric nickel hydride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Conventional methods for isolation and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of bacterial isolates from positive blood culture bottles takes at least 48 hours. Direct antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) from positively flagged blood culture bottles helps to reduce the turnaround time (TAT) by 24 hours which will be useful in early initiation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy to reduce morbidity and mortality. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the performance of direct AST from positively flagged BACTEC blood culture bottles and its comparison to conventional AST. Methods: A total of 356 blood culture bottles that were positively flagged on BACTEC 9120 were processed. Direct AST was performed from positive blood culture bottles. Bacterial isolates were identified using standard microbiological methods and tested against a wide spectrum of antimicrobial agents using the Kirby Bauer's disc diffusion method following the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Direct and conventional AST results were compared and Categorical agreement (CA) with various errors was evaluated. Results: On direct Gram staining, 107 samples showed Gram negative bacilli and 105 showed Gram positive cocci and 144 samples showed growth of contaminants. A total of 1486 organism-antibiotic combinations were evaluated, out of which 1438 (96.76%) combinations showed CA which was extremely satisfactory. The categorical disagreement was found only in 48 (3.23%) of organismantibiotic combinations; out of which major error was 23 (1.54%) followed by minor error 17 (1.14%) and very major error 8 (0.53%). Conclusions: The present study showed good concordance between the two methods and suggests the use of direct AST to reduce TAT by 24 hours for early initiation of therapy in patients with blood stream infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium titanate is one of the crucial breeder materials in nuclear fusion reactors. High lithium atomic density is the most desired property for this application. In view of this, advanced lithium titanate (Li2+xTiO3+y) ceramics with varying stoichiometry of Li were synthesized at temperatures in the range of 900–1100 °C and characterized using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. External (in air) particle induced gamma-ray emission (PIGE) method was utilized for the quantification of lithium in the direct solid samples using 14N (from air) as an external current normalizer. The method was validated using certified lithium titanate reference material. The obtained results are found to be in good agreement with the theoretical values. The present study highlights the advantages of the external PIGE as a simple non-destructive method of quantification of Li in ceramics over conventional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses the challenges and dilemmas faced in the field of gastroenterology when it comes to making accurate diagnoses. Misdiagnosis can lead to delays in treatment, unnecessary therapies, and increased risks for patients. The document highlights specific issues such as differentiating between abdominal tuberculosis and Crohn's disease, as well as distinguishing between tuberculous peritonitis and peritoneal carcinomatosis. It also addresses topics like metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, predicting the need for surgery in Crohn's disease patients, differentiating pancreatic adenocarcinoma from inflammatory masses, and drug-resistant Helicobacter pylori. The articles emphasize the need for better diagnostics and prognostic markers in gastrointestinal diseases. [Extracted from the article]

The compounds under investigation sought a new approach to synthesis via the Baylis‐Hillman (B−H) and Michael addition reactions. The product formation's legitimacy was tested using a repeat reaction with many different nucleophiles. The additional stability of the product via aromatic π⋅⋅⋅π and C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions may result in unexpected product formation in diverse reactions undertaken utilizing different starting materials. This study suggests that weak interaction not only provides selectivity during reactions but also modifies the result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The past few decades have seen a marked increase in the macrovascular complications of Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) such as coronary heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and cerebrovascular disease. This has been predominantly attributed to the increased atherosclerosis in these patients. Atherosclerosis usually remains an asymptomatic condition and this poses a significant challenge in its early diagnosis and timely intervention. Hence, there is an immediate need for exploring novel tools to aid in the early detection of atherosclerosis, especially in T2DM patients. Osteocalcin (OC), synthesized by osteoblasts, is a protein hormone found in the skeletal system. This protein is considered as a marker for bone density and in recent times has been gaining interest due to its protective role in cerebrovascular diseases(CVD). Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study and evaluated the association between serum OC levels and atherosclerosis in 113 T2DM patients. Carotid intima-media thickness (CC-IMT) was used as an estimate of atherosclerosis and patients were divided into two groups (CC-IMT < 0.9 and ≥ 0.9). Correlation of serum OC levels and glycemic parameters and lipid profiles were studied and compared between both groups. Results: There is a significant negative correlation between the CC-IMT estimates and serum OC levels. CC-IMT also has a significant association with other biochemical parameters such as fasting blood sugar, glycated hemoglobin and high-density lipoprotein. Conclusion: Although the independent association of serum OC could not be established in the T2DM patient population, overall, the results favor low serum OC as a prognostic marker for atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current research work, an analysis of differential phase shift quantum key distribution using InGaAs/InP and Silicon-APD (avalanche photodiode) as single photon detectors is performed. Various performance parameters of interest such as shifted key rate, secure key rate, and secure communication distance obtained are investigated. In this optical fiber-based differential phase shift quantum key distribution, it is observed that Si-APD under frequency conversion method at telecommunication window outperforms the InGaAs/InP APD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penetrating foreign bodies in the neck due to occupational injury may cause life-threatening complications, hence their urgent removal by neck exploration is incumbent. Finding this foreign body in the operative field may sometimes be arduous and demanding for the surgeon. We present a case of a metallic foreign body embedded into the scalene muscles of the neck and share our experience with a relevant review of the literature. Alongside this penetrating foreign body in the neck, what captivates our attention is a dormant foreign body lying in the buccal region for decades which did not demand any removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of Ag15+ (200 MeV) swift heavy ion irradiations on the structural and phononic properties of epitaxial LaNiO3 (LNO) thin film have been investigated using high resolution x-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. After irradiation, the decrease in the out-of-plane lattice parameter of LNO toward its bulk value indicates the relaxation of epitaxial strain. The temperature dependency of phononic response for different ion irradiation doses was studied by performing the Raman measurements in a temperature range of 80−300 K. For pristine as well as irradiated samples of LNO, the observed phononic modes A1g and Eg shows softening with an increment in the temperature. The temperature coefficient of both modes varies with ion fluence. For the A1g mode, temperature coefficient increases from −0.087 cm−1 K−1 for pristine to −0.092 cm−1 K−1 for a maximum ion fluence of 1012 ions/cm2, while for the Eg mode, it decreases from −0.022 cm−1 K−1 for pristine to −0.015 cm−1 K−1 for 1012 ions/cm2. Raman frequency shift for both the modes shows non-linear behavior with temperature. This temperature dependent behavior was quantitatively analyzed by using a model which suggests that Raman shifts of the A1g mode emerged predominantly due to four phonon processes whereas, for the Eg mode, major contribution came from the thermal expansion effect. Ion irradiation did not change the dominating mechanism resulting in these temperature dependent Raman shifts, although the relative contribution of different processes was altered with ion fluence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer globally and the seventh most common cause of cancer-related mortality. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection are prominent risk factors for HNSCC. HPV-positive Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) differs from HPV-negative OSCC in terms of risk factors, preferential site of origin, age, histomorphological features, molecular genetic alterations, and prognosis. The prominent basaloid morphology and lobular growth of OSCCs are associated with p16 positivity and p53 negativity, respectively. Aim: To establish the immunohistochemical expression of p16 (p16INK4a) and p53 in OSCC and to assess their relationship with specific histomorphological features, in the form of solid growth of cells in a lobular configuration, small crowded cells with scant cytoplasm, dark hyperchromatic nuclei without nucleoli. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study involved fifty cases of OSCC over a two-year period from January 2017 to January 2019 at Army Hospital (R and R) Delhi Cantt. The intensity of p16 and p53 protein expression was graded as follows: no staining (0), weak staining (1), moderate staining (2), and strong staining (3). The proportion/percentage of staining for p16 and p53 protein expression was calculated as follows: 1-4% (1), 5-19% (2), 20-39% (3), 40-59% (4), 60-79% (5), and 80-100% (6) cells stained. A quick score of 0-1 (negative), 2-3 (weak positive), 4-5 (moderate positive), and >6 (strong positive) was assessed. Cross tables were generated and the Chi-square test was used for testing associations. The Statistical Software for Data Science (STATA)-14 was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 50 cases of OSCC were analysed for histomorphological features and immunohistochemical patterns of p16 and p53. The age distribution showed that 8 (16%), 9 (18%), 18 (36%), 13 (26%), and 2 (4%) of the patients were in the age groups of 31-40 years, 41-50 years, 51-60 years, 61-70 years, and above 70 years, respectively. The gender distribution noted 42 (84%) males and 8 (16%) females. Genital and non-genital mucosa are usually involved by HPV subtypes 6, 11, 16, 18, and 16, 18, 11, 13, 2, respectively. HPV-16 has been demonstrated in 90-95% of all HPV-positive HNSCC cases, followed by HPV-18, HPV-31, and HPV-33. p53 is considered the guardian of the genome and controls the expression and activity of proteins involved in cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, cellular senescence, and apoptosis. More than 50% of all primary HNSCC exhibit p53 mutation. Conclusion: A significant correlation was observed between age, dysplasia, keratinisation, basaloid morphology versus p16 expression, and lobular growth, histological grade versus p53. An inverse relationship between p16 and p53 expressions was observed. The immunohistochemical expression of p16 as an immunohistochemical marker of HPV, along with p53, is recommended. Due to the constraint of the study period, the survival of the patients could not be assessed in correlation with p16 and p53 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated the pharmacokinetic behavior of pyrazinamide (PZA) and pyrazinoic acid (PA) in the presence of carbon-tetrachloride (CCl4) plus antitubercular treatment (ATT) drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in rats. Methods: Thirty rats utilized in the experiment were separated equally into five groups. Each rat was injected with 0.5 ml/kg CCl4 intra-peritoneal injection on day zero. Group, I rats did receive only CCl4 (single i.p. injection, 0.5 ml/Kg in olive oil in a 1:1 ratio). Groups II, III, IV, and V did receive daily oral PZA, PZA plus isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RMP) plus pyrazinamide (PZA), and three drugs together, respectively, for 21-days. Pharmacokinetic sampling was performed at 0, 0.5,1,3,6,12 and 24 hours post-dosing on day-20. Liver function test (LFT) was assessed at days 0,1,7, and 21 days after CCl4 and ATT administration, and rats were sacrificed on the last experiment day. Results: ATT treatment maintained the liver function changes initiated by CCl4 administration. An evidential LFT rise was observed in groups administered with pyrazinamide. Co-administration of Isoniazid caused a 2.02 and 1.78 times increase in Area-under-the-curve (AUC) values of PZA and PA, respectively (p < 0.05). Histological and oxidative-stress changes supported the biochemical and pharmacokinetic observations. Conclusion: The enzyme inhibitory capacity of isoniazid is well-preservd in CCl4-induced liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automobile glass forensics using suitable chemical analysis techniques is an important field in forensic science. In this respect, major elements help to classify the glass samples, whereas trace elements in conjunction with chemometrics are very important to help in grouping for source/origin finding. Five different radioanalytical techniques namely scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF), particle induced gamma-ray/X-ray emission (PIGE/PIXE), and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) were utilized for chemical characterization of automobile (car) windshield glasses and the results have been discussed for possible forensic applications. Methods were validated by analyzing geological and glass-certified/standard reference materials. The R&D work was carried out for 48 real case car windshield glass samples from 10 different manufacturers, whereas the method was standardized for 5 glasses, then applied to 20, and finally to 48 glass samples. From the results of all techniques, it was observed that trace elements like Sc, Cr, Co, Mn, Hf, Ta, Ba La, Ce, Sm, Eu, Yb, and Th obtained by INAA are very helpful for the grouping. Preliminary grouping of the first five samples was carried out utilizing concentration ratios with respect to Sc, La/Ce, and total rare earth elements (REEs) as well as from biplots and ternary plots. External (in air) PIGE and INAA methods were optimized and applied to "as received" glass fragments for confirming the class of glass from major elements and grouping study from trace elements, respectively. Different clustering and grouping methods of chemometrics like cluster analysis (CA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed to get the best grouping of similar glasses. PCA using trace elemental concentration was found to be the best approach. Final grouping confirmation of 48 automobile glasses was carried out by PCA, which indicated a clear nine groups from nine branded manufacturers, whereas one set of local glasses did not show any group. The study showed the efficacy of external PIGE and INAA for the classification and grouping study of these soda lime glasses and trace elements in conjunction with PCA for confirmation of grouping needed for forensic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to find the best geometries among the cylindrical, enamel and honeycomb geometries based upon the mechanical properties (tensile test, compression test and shear test). Further this obtained geometry could be used to fabricate products like exoskeleton and its supporting members. Design/methodology/approach: The present research focuses on the mechanical testing of cylindrical, enamel and honeycomb-shaped parts fabricated through multi-jet printing (MJP) process with a wall thickness of 0.26, 0.33, 0.4 and 0.66 mm. The polymer specimens (for tensile, compression and shear tests) were fabricated using a multi-jet fusion process. The experimental results were compared with the numerical modelling. Finally, the optimal geometry was obtained, and the influence of wall thicknesses on various mechanical properties (tensile, compression and shear) was studied. Findings: In comparison to cylindrical, enamel structures the honeycomb structures required less time to fabricate and had lower tensile, compressive and shear strengths. The most efficient geometry for fully functional parts where tensile, compressive and shear forces are present during application – cylindrical geometry is preferred followed by enamel, and then honeycomb. It was found that as the wall thickness of various geometries was increased, their ability to withstand tensile, compressive and shear loads also enhanced. The enamel shape structure exhibits greater strain energy storage capacity than other shape structures for compressive loads, and the strength to resist the compressive load will be lower. In the case of cylindrical geometries for tensile loading, the resisting area toward the loading will be higher in comparison to honeycomb- and enamel-based structures. At the same time, the ability to store the stain energy is less. The results of the tensile, compression and shear load finite element analysis using ANSYS are in agreement with those of the experiments. Originality/value: From the insight of literature review, it is found that a wide range of work is done on fused deposition modeling (FDM) process. But in comparison to FDM, the MJP provide the better dimensional accuracy and surface properties (Lee et al., 2020). Therefore, it is observed that past research works not incorporated the effect of wall thickness of the embedded geometries on mechanical properties of the part fabricated on MJP (Gibson, n.d.). Hence, in this work, effect of wall thickness on tensile, compression and shear strength is considered as the main factor for the honeycomb, enamel and cylindrical geometries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is the second most populous country in the world and stood at seventh rank in a major climate risk index in 2019, which is a grave concern for the Indian government, policymakers and environmentalists. Therefore, the present study examines the role of fiscal policy and monetary policy instruments along with select macroeconomic variables on carbon emission in India over the period 1971–2019 in the non‐linear framework. The outcome of the study reveals that the impact of fiscal and monetary policy instruments on carbon emission is asymmetric in nature. In addition, the positive and negative shocks in fiscal and monetary policy instruments have a positive and negative impact on carbon emissions, respectively. Based on the coefficients' magnitude, the role of fiscal policy instruments has a more prominent effect on carbon emissions than monetary policy instruments. The findings of the study imply that the Indian government is required to implement green fiscal and monetary policies. Use fiscal policy to implement a 'green tax ratio' and a 'green subsidy programme' for manufacturers and investors to reduce CO2 emissions. A 'green lending programme' should be introduced for commercial banks by implementing monetary policy via the central bank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive evaluation was carried out for elemental characterization of automobile glasses having potential forensic application by Energy Dispersive X‐ray Fluorescence (ED‐XRF) spectrometry and Direct Current Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (DC Arc AES). The methods were optimized and validated using geological certified reference materials and glass standard reference material. Total seventeen elements including five major elements (Si, Na, Ca, Mg and Fe) and twelve minor and trace elements (Al, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Rb, Mo, Zr and Sr) were found to be present. Though DC Arc AES performed better for minor and trace level determination, however, the precision was evaluated as 15–20 % RSD. On the contrary, ED‐XRF performed better for major elements with 5–10 % RSD. The detection limits for the analytes prone to form refractory oxides on heating were found to be poorer in DC Arc AES compared to ED‐XRF. Statistical analyses were also performed to evaluate the reliability of the data obtained by the optimized methods. As a part of forensic applications, the elemental concentrations of minor and trace elements were utilized for the grouping study of the glass samples by cluster analysis using average linkage method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy and electricity are critical prerequisites for every nation and critical components of social and economic growth. The monetary policy economist has been debating the issue of relying on core inflation or headline inflation, which includes energy, because the energy price is so volatile that it obscures the trend in inflation and dilutes the objectives of monetary policy. This paper aims at analyzing the impact of the twin deficit on energy inflation within a linear and nonlinear framework in India using time series data covering the period from 1971 to 2021. ARDL and NARDL approaches are employed to investigate the linear/symmetric response of energy inflation due to the twin-deficit in India. Estimates show a negative relationship between the twin-deficit and energy inflation in a symmetric model. The results of the asymmetric model reveal that the response of energy inflation due to expansionary fiscal policy (increment in CFD) and contractionary fiscal policy (decline in CFD) is diverse, in terms of size of the coefficient. Further, estimates of NARDL show the distinct impact of increases and decreases in CAD on energy inflation. The study offers several implications for policymakers and energy economists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes a transition metal-free methodology involving an efficient and controlled reduction of isocyanates to only formamide derivatives using pinacolborane (HBpin) as the hydrogenating agent and a bis(phosphino)carbazole ligand stabilized magnesium methyl complex (1) as the catalyst. A large number of substrates undergo selective hydroboration and give exclusively N-boryl formamides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on the identification of individual characteristics in handwriting for the purpose of estimating the gender of the writer. A total of 150 individuals participated in the study and the relevant features were extracted from their handwriting. These characteristics were collectively studied and their potential of gender estimation was explored by utilizing statistical methods of chi-square test, logistic regression and likelihood ratios. First, the chi-square test was performed and it was observed that out of 25 individual characteristics, only 15 showed significant differences between males and females (p <.05) handwriting. Further, the logistic regression model reduced the number of such characteristics to 9, to cost-effectively assess the gender of the writer, in the process including 4 features that had p >.05. The correct classification rate for females and males thus arrived at was 80% and 76.4% respectively. Further, the likelihood ratio approach was also applied to assess the strength of evidence in the estimation of sex of the unknown person from these handwriting characteristics. Knowing the gender of the writer can establish priors for the statistical approach to the identification of the writer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, an attempt has been made to study the influence of process parameters of the wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) process on the machining characteristics. The commercially pure titanium is machined by WEDM using brass wire as an electrode. The input parameters in this work were pulse on-time (Aon), pulse off-time (Aoff), servo voltage (SV) and wire tension (WT). On the other hand, dimensional accuracy (DA), average surface roughness (Ra) and maximum surface roughness (Rz) were chosen as the response parameters. The empirical relations developed for response characteristics were solved collectively using Evaluation Based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The optimized setting for minimizing the surface irregularities while machining titanium alloy on WEDM is predicted as Aon: 8 μs; Aoff: 13 μs; SV: 45 V; and WT: 8 N. Moreover, the predicted solution at the optimized parametric settings came out as DA: 95%; Ra: 3.163 μm; Rz: 22.99 μm; WL: 0.0182 g; and DR: 0.1277 mm. The validation experiments at the optimized setting showed the close agreement between predicted and experimental values. The morphological study by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at the optimized setting revealed a significant reduction in surface defects such as micro cracks, micro cavities, globules and sub-surfaces, etc. In a nutshell, the study justified the effectiveness of EDAS-PSO in efficiently predicting the results for machining of pure titanium (Grade 2) using the WEDM process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urgent demand for alternative energy sources has been sparked by the tremendous burden on fossil fuels and the resulting acute energy crisis and climate change issues. Lignocellulosic biomass is a copious renewable and alternative bioresource for the generation of energy fuels and biochemicals in biorefineries. Different pretreatment strategies have been established to overcome biomass recalcitrance and face technological challenges, such as high energy consumption and operational costs and environmental hazards, among many. Biological pretreatment using microbial enzymes is an environmentally benign and low-cost method that holds promising features in the effective pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass. Due to their versatility and eco-friendliness, cellulases, hemicellulases, and ligninolytic enzymes have been recognized as "green biocatalysts" with a myriad of industrial applications. The current review provides a detailed description of different types of lignocellulolytic enzymes, their mode of action, and their prospective applications in the valorization of lignocellulosic biomass. Solid state fermentation holds great promise in the microbial production of lignocellulolytic enzymes owing to its energy efficient, environment friendly, and higher product yielding features utilizing the lignocellulosic feedstocks. The recent trends in the application of enzyme immobilization strategies for improved enzymatic catalysis have been discussed. The major bottlenecks in the bioprocessing of lignocellulosic biomass using microbial enzymes and future prospects have also been summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water gets polluted due to the dumping of untreated industrial waste into bodies of water, particularly those containing heavy metals and dyes. Industrial water contains both inorganic and organic wastes. Numerous adsorbents that are inexpensive and easily available can be used to address the issue of water deterioration. This review report is focused on polyacrylonitrile as an efficient constituent of adsorbents to extract toxic ions and dyes. It discusses the various formulations of polyacrylonitrile, such as ion exchange resins, chelating resins, fibers, membranes, and hydrogels, synthesized through different polymerization methods, such as suspension polymerization, electrospinning, grafting, redox, and emulsion polymerization. Moreover, regeneration of adsorbent and heavy metal ions makes the adsorption process more cost-effective and efficient. The literature reporting successful regeneration of the adsorbent is included. The factors affecting the performance and outcomes of the adsorption process are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otitis externa is a common condition encountered in the ENT outdoors. For long, it was thought to be of fungal etiology but after World War II, bacterial pathogens were found to be most commonly involved. Pseudomonas has been described as the most common causative organism in the literature. This prospective study aimed to study the microbiological profile and antibiotic sensitivity of 100 patients of otitis externa. 100 diagnosed cases of otitis externa were included in the study after informed consent. Swabs were taken from the external acoustic canal maintaining asepsis. The swabs were analysed using microscopy, culture and sensitivity testing. The samples were cultured on blood agar, MacConkey agar and Sabourad's dextrose agar with antibiotics. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. The most common bacteria identified was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (36.36%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (15.45%), Escherichia coli (2.73%), Klebsiella (1.82%), and Proteus sp (1.82%). Aspergillus sp (19.09%) and Candida albicans (8.18%) were the fungal species identified. Pseudomonas showed excellent sensitivity to imipenem, piperacillin and ofloxacin, while Staphylococcus showed good sensitivity to vancomycin, ofloxacin and netilmycin. Topical fluoroquinolones can be used as empirical treatment in most cases of bacterial otitis externa. In resistant cases, culture and antibiotic sensitivity should be done to manage the infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of simvastatin were formulated using glyceryl monostearate and stearic acid in the ratio of 1:1 by applying 32 factorial design. The SLNs were optimized to check the effect of melted lipid and surfactant concentration on particle size and entrapment efficiency. A total of 12 formulations were prepared and characterization parameters were studied. The optimized formulation was selected by studying the interaction between the factors using polynomial equations and 3D response plots. Particle size and percentage entrapment efficiency of optimized formulation were found 185.7 nm and 82.53, respectively. A higher drug release was obtained which best fitted to first-order kinetics. Finally it was concluded that glyceryl monostearate and stearic acid in combination helps in improving the quality of simvastatin loaded SLNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coniferous forest residue, such as pine needles, has enormous potential in Himalayan territories and could play a significant role in energy supply. The present work, for the first time, investigates the fluidization; combustion performance; and collected fly ash analysis. Experimental results on the cold state show the mixing characteristics of pine needles with silica sand indicate that the 3-mm pine needles with 2% concentration mix well with bed material (silica sand) at fluidization number (FN = 4). The results show that among the four different cases considered for the mixing characteristics of pine needle and silica sand, concentration of pine needles and fluidizing velocity have been employing a substantial impact on the mixing characteristics during fluidization. However, improper mixing was found because of little segregation above and below FN = 4. The combustion studies on pine needles conducted in excessive air atmosphere in FBC had achieved combustion efficiency (ηCombustion) over 73.19%; the temperatures of the dilute phase region were found to higher than the combustion zone, and secondary air pours have no significant effect on flue gas temperature. The results show that the pine needles are easily combusted inside the combustor, and broad work is required for effective usage of a critical portion of pine needles as a feedstock. SEM/EDS analyzes the morphology and compositions of ash and sand. The fly ash elemental heterogeneity is analyzed by using compositional analysis. Finally, the fly ash suggests the evaluation indexes for pine needles with the help of SEM/EDS, elemental analysis and ash fusion temperature. There was no agglomeration found during the period of tests under-considered operating conditions at an average temperature of 817 ºC and received 15–20% unburned carbon in the fly ash sample. Generally, the pine needles characteristics are tremendous valuable source of power and heat. This can provide basal knowledge and may further help the researchers and academics who are working in this area. The present work showed a good agreement to generate future opportunities for using pine needles (forestry litter) in combustion technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grave environmental, social, and economic concerns over the unprecedented exploitation of non-renewable energy resources have drawn the attention of policy makers and research organizations towards the sustainable use of agro-industrial food and crop wastes. Enzymes are versatile biocatalysts with immense potential to transform the food industry and lignocellulosic biorefineries. Microbial enzymes offer cleaner and greener solutions to produce fine chemicals and compounds. The production of industrially important enzymes from abundantly present agro-industrial food waste offers economic solutions for the commercial production of value-added chemicals. The recent developments in biocatalytic systems are designed to either increase the catalytic capability of the commercial enzymes or create new enzymes with distinctive properties. The limitations of low catalytic efficiency and enzyme denaturation in ambient conditions can be mitigated by employing diverse and inexpensive immobilization carriers, such as agro-food based materials, biopolymers, and nanomaterials. Moreover, revolutionary protein engineering tools help in designing and constructing tailored enzymes with improved substrate specificity, catalytic activity, stability, and reaction product inhibition. This review discusses the recent developments in the production of essential industrial enzymes from agro-industrial food trash and the application of low-cost immobilization and enzyme engineering approaches for sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates a four-level pulse amplitude modulated (PAM4) signal without any digital to analog conversion by controlling the polarization of the continuous-wave laser signal applied to the two parallel placed Mach–Zehnder modulators. In this way, up to 200 Gbps, the PAM4 signal has been successfully generated and transmitted over an 80 km distance with a quality factor of 23.9 dB. The dispersion in optical fiber limits the data-transmission distance, which is reduced by controlling the chromatic dispersion using a dispersion compensated fiber. For long-distance transmission, polarization mode dispersion also comes into the picture due to its polarization dependency and degrades the signal's quality, which is reduced by controlling the polarization rotator just before the DCF fiber. The proposed system is also suitable for inter data-center communication due to its 80 km distance data transmission with such a high bit rate and Q-factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In local stability framework, receptivity and sensitivity analysis for Jeffery-Hamel (JH) flow for converging and diverging angles are presented here. The frequencies are pointed out, upon which the internal eigen-frequency of the system resonates with that of external forcing frequencies. This resonance is often characterized as a starting step of disturbance growth of internal disturbances influenced from external environment disturbance. Identifying and avoiding such frequencies in external disturbance environment apriori, can certainly help delay in transition process. A mathematical model as a harmonically driven input-output system is formulated (through resolvent norm) to quantify the amplification of energy and identifying the resonant external frequencies of the system. Sensitivity analysis is also mapped by resolvent norm by highlighting the most sensitive eigenvalues in the pseudospectrum of the system. Numerical simulation is done for small angles of converging and diverging JH flow, for which parallel flow assumptions are also valid. For numerical discretization, Chebyshev spectral method is utilized. The wall normal direction were discretized at Chebyshev collocation points in order to achieve higher accuracy. We have studied three different cases for near critical Reynolds number values. In 2D diverging JH flow case (at wavenumbers k x = 1.66 , k z = 0 ) with near critical Reynolds no = 250 and diverging angle α = 1 ∘ , the resonant peak is observed at ω = 0.7653 . For 3D diverging JH flow case (at wavenumbers k x = 0 , k z = 1 ) with Reynolds no = 250 and diverging angle α = 1 ∘ , the resonance occurs at ω = 0.0102 , having comparatively higher peak. Whereas for converging JH flow ( α = - 0. 005 ∘ ), Re = 9000 , k x = 0 and k z = 2 , the eigen-frequency ω = 0.0102 resonates with that of external frequency, with even higher magnitude as compared with that of both diverging JH flow cases. The JH flows are accompanied with single resonant peak, as compared with that of plane Poiseuille flow. This qualitatively links the inherited better stability of the JH flows as compared to the plane Poiseuille flow. These resonances could induce the starting step leading to transition in the flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The aqueous ethanol-induced green synthesis of organic dithiocarbamates derived from Baylis-Hillman adducts/alcohols at room temperature is reported in this study. • The approach highlights an environmentally benign reaction state, quick reaction time, operational simplicity, simple workup, and purification technique as synthesized compounds were purified using the recrystallization technique in hot ethanol and avoided the use of column chromatography, as well as high product yield and removal of toxic catalysts, bases, and volatile solvents. • Single crystal X-ray diffraction experiments enabled the clear identification of the crystal structure of the compound 4 u. • The Hirshfeld surface and related 2D fingerprint plots of compound 4 u have also given a basis to explore the role of various contacts that lead to the compound's packing in solids. • A complete complement of C H···O, C H···S, π···π, C H··· π and H···H contacts, intermolecular hydrogen bonds, and other interactions were observed for the sake of crystal packing study. • According to FMO analysis, compound 4 u in the gas phase possesses 3.400 eV HOMO-LUMO energy gaps and is hence kinetically stable. • A molecular docking analysis was also performed to analyze the potential interactions and method of binding of the newly synthesized compounds (4a- 4 w) to the E. coli nitroreductase enzyme. • According to the docking analysis, the chemicals (4k, 4 g , 4l, and 4 m) may decrease the activity of the E. coli nitroreductase enzyme. Several new organic dithiocarbamates were produced in aqueous ethanol using a one-pot multicomponent reaction involving Baylis-Hillman adducts/alcohols, CS 2 , and different secondary amines. Because of the short reaction periods and high yields, this approach is easy, green, and cost-effective for producing biologically relevant dithiocarbamates at room temperature. The structure of the synthesized dithiocarbamates was confirmed using 1H, 13C NMR, HRMS, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. The HOMO–LUMO energy gap, Mulliken charges, and MESPs have all been computed and presented. Hirshfeld surface analysis and accompanying two-dimensional fingerprint plots, as well as compound interaction energy estimates, were employed as theoretical methodologies to examine the driving force for crystal structure development via intermolecular interactions in their crystal lattices. A molecular docking study was also performed to evaluate the probable interactions and binding manner of the newly synthesized compounds (4a-4w) to the E. coli nitroreductase enzyme. The docking analysis suggested that the compounds (4k, 4g, 4l, and 4m) may inhibit the activity of the nitroreductase enzyme of E. coli. Using a one-pot multicomponent reaction including CS 2 , several secondary amines, and Baylis-Hillman adducts/alcohols, many novel organic dithiocarbamates were synthesized in aqueous ethanol. This method is simple, environmentally friendly, and economical for generating biologically significant dithiocarbamates at room temperature due to the quick reaction times and large yields. The driving force for crystal structure growth via intermolecular interactions in their crystal lattices was investigated theoretically using Hirshfeld surface analysis and corresponding two-dimensional fingerprint plots, in addition to compound interaction energy estimations. To assess the likely interactions and mode of binding of the recently synthesized compounds (4a- 4 w) to the E. coli nitroreductase enzyme, a molecular docking study was also carried out. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Sequential ChCl/citric acid-microwave pretreatment was used for XOS production. • Maximum lignin (51.5%) and xylan (67.36%) removal obtained from pretreated mixture. • High XOS yield (52%) was obtained at 450W microwave power with ChCl/citric acid. • A high xylobiose content (69.32%) was analyzed from total xylooligosaccharides. The bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass into novel bioproducts is crucial for sustainable biorefineries, providing an integrated solution for circular economy objectives. The current study investigated a novel microwave-assisted acidic deep eutectic solvent (DES) pretreatment of waste cocoa pod husk (CPH) biomass to extract xylooligosaccharides (XOS). The sequential DES (choline chloride/citric acid, molar ratio 1:1) and microwave (450W) pretreatment of CPH biomass was effective in 67.3% xylan removal with a 52% XOS yield from total xylan. Among different XOS of varying degrees of polymerization, a higher xylobiose content corresponding to 69.3% of the total XOS (68.22 mg/g CPH) from liquid fraction was observed. Enzymatic hydrolysis of residual xylan from pretreated CPH biomass with low commercial xylanase (10 IU/g) concentration yielded 24.2% XOS. The MW-ChCl/citric acid synergistic pretreatment approach holds great promise for developing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method contributing to the sustainable production of XOS from agricultural waste streams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis of a calcium complex (2) bearing a tetradentate monoanionic ligand with a diaminoethane core and phenolate and pyridine peripheral donors. Single crystal X‐ray studies on 2 revealed that LiI was also co‐crystallized, leading to a four‐membered ring with four different elements. 2 was found to be an efficient catalyst for the cyclotrimerization of a variety of aromatic isocyanates under mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric discharge drilling (EDD) is a variant of spark erosion machining and is successfully used for the drilling of quality microholes. In present research, an attempt was made to drill microholes on Al/SiC composite. The drilling on aluminum composite was made at different machining indicators to analyze its effect on drilling rate (DR), electrode wear ratio (EWR), hole overcut (HO) and circularity (C). The input parameters selected in this work are pulse on-time (Ton), peak current (Ip) and pulse off-time (Toff). The experiments were planned as per Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array (OA). It was found that with the increase in Ton value, HO and EWR increases. However, larger values of Ip and Toff decreases the HO and EWR. Due to the combination of different quality characteristics Grey theory along with desirability has been implemented for collective response of output parameters. The optimized setting for multiple performance characteristics is Ton: 40; Ip: 3; Toff: 50. An improvement of 0.0199 is observed in grade value during optimization as compared to the maximum calculated grade value. After the implementation of proposed optimization technique, an improvement of 42.88% in DR, a reduction of 33.59% in EWR, a reduction of 4.54% in HO and 0.68% in C is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precise and timely detection of tuberculosis (TB) is crucial to reduce transmission. This study aims to assess the accuracy of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra on stool samples and systematically review the performance of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra with different sample types by meta-analysis. Stool samples of smear-negative pulmonary TB (PTB), cervical lymph node TB, and abdominal TB patients were tested on the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra system. Meta-analysis was performed on a set of 44 studies. Data were grouped by sample type, and the pooled sensitivity and specificity of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra were calculated. The sensitivity of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra with stool samples was 100% for smear-negative PTB, 27.27% for cervical lymph node TB, and 50% for abdominal TB patients, with 100% specificity for all included TB groups. The summary estimate for all PTB samples showed 84.2% sensitivity and 94.5% specificity, and EPTB samples showed 88.6% sensitivity and 96.4% specificity. Among all sample types included in our meta-analysis, urine showed the best performance for EPTB diagnosis. This pilot study supports the use of stool as an alternative non-invasive sample on Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra for rapid testing, suitable for both PTB and EPTB diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A nut bolt joint is a primary device that connects mechanical components. The vibrations cause bolted joints to self-loosen. Created by motors and engines, leading to machine failure, and there may be severe safety issues. All the safety issues and self-loosen are directly and indirectly the functions of the accuracy and precision of the fabricated nut and bolt. Recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies now allow for the production of intricate components. These may be used technologies such as 3D printed bolts to create fasteners. This paper aims to investigate dimensional precision, surface properties, mechanical properties and scanning electron microscope (SEM) of the component fabricated using a multi-jet 3D printer. Design/methodology/approach: Multi-jet-based 3D printed nut-bolt is evaluated in this paper. More specifically, liquid polymer-based nut-bolt is fabricated in sections 1, 2 and 3 of the base plate. Five nuts and bolts are fabricated in these three sections. Findings: Dimensional inquiry (bolt dimension, general dimensions' density and surface roughness) and mechanical testing (shear strength of nut and bolt) were carried out throughout the study. According to the ISO 2768 requirements for the General Tolerances Grade, the nut and bolt's dimensional examination (variation in bolt dimension, general dimensions) is within the tolerance grades. As a result, the multi-jet 3D printing (MJP)-based 3D printer described above may be used for commercial production. In terms of mechanical qualities, when the component placement moves from Sections 1 to 3, the density of the manufactured part decreases by 0.292% (percent) and the shear strength of the nut and bolt decreases by 30%. According to the SEM examination, the density of the River markings, sharp edges, holes and sharp edges increased from Sections 1 to 3, which supports the findings mentioned above. Originality/value: Hence, this work enlightens the aspects causing time lag during the 3D printing in MJP. It causes variation in the dimensional deviation, surface properties and mechanical properties of the fabricated part, which needs to be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports an approach for generating an ultra-flat and ultra-wide optical frequency comb by exploiting gain modulation, experienced by a periodic third ordered Gaussian-shaped optical pulse propagating through the semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA). The gain experienced by optical signal propagating inside SOA is independent of its polarization state and phase, makes the technique more favorable and stable to the optical frequency comb generation. This paper reports a 94-line optical frequency comb with 5 dB maximum power deviation and a 190-line optical frequency comb with 10 dB maximum power deviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Folic acid is vital for DNA synthesis and methylations through one-carbon (C1) metabolism. Thus, it is essential for cell division during embryonic development. Although the oocytes contain endogenous pool of folates for development, the present study investigated the effect of external folic acid supplementation on oocyte maturation, blastocyst development and the expression of folate transporters as well as folate metabolism enzymes in oocytes and pre-implantation embryos of goat. Immature goat oocytes, matured in maturation medium comprising different folic acid concentrations (0, 10, 50, 100 and 150 μM), were in vitro fertilized and cultured. Cumulus expansion markers (PTX3 and PTGS2) in cumulus cells were highly upregulated after 50 μM folic acid supplementation indicating higher degree of maturation. Supplementation of 50 μM folic acid during oocyte maturation resulted in significantly higher blastocyst production rate, reduction in intracellular ROS levels as well as upregulation of the transcripts for folate transporters and key folate-methionine cycle enzymes in comparison to control. The present study demonstrates the existence of active folate-methionine cycle in oocytes and pre-implantation goat embryos. Supplementation of 50 μM folic acid in maturation medium improves oocyte maturation, the blastocyst production rate, reduces ROS production as well as upregulate the expression of FOLR1 and folate metabolism enzyme, MTR. • Optimal concentration of folic acid is crucial for developmental competence of oocytes. • Over optimal supplementation of folic acid reduces oocyte quality. • Folic acid during IVM reduces reactive oxygen species in oocytes. • Folic acid upregulates gene expression of MTR , a key folate-methionine cycle enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rise in the number of smartphone users have led to an increased development of smartphone applications. Advent of technology and increased awareness has led to an increased use of healthcare apps by both the physicians and patients. This study aims to provide an up to date review on applications related to Otolaryngology, head and neck surgery (Oto-HNS). The smartphone applications were reviewed in May 2020 in Google play store and apple app store using relevant search words. We included apps relevant for physicians, students as well as patients. Apps providing alternative therapies and home remedies were excluded. A total of 619 apps were included with 352 apps from play store and 267 apps from apple store. Number of apps have remarkably increased in the last 2 years till May 2020, 63 apps were developed and last year 141 Oto-HNS apps were developed. Maximum number of apps were available in hearing aid category with 144 (23.2%) mobile hearing aids and 138 (22.2%) hearing aid control apps. 445 apps were available free of cost. Use of smartphone apps have increased dramatically in the last few years. However, their authenticity is still uncertain. Actual involvement of Otolaryngologist in app development is still rare. We recommend formation of scientific committees to regulate the apps development, to access apps quality and effectiveness before incorporated in clinical practice, medical education and patients use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the facial skin with eye involvement being underdiagnosed. Aim: To study the prevalence of ocular rosacea in patients of rosacea in a tertiary care centre. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study conducted at two tertiary level hospitals from January 2020 to December 2021. Cases of rosacea diagnosed were referred from the Departments of dermatology to the Departments of ophthalmology for ocular evaluation. A total of 400 patients were included in study in a multicentric setting. For ophthalmic evaluation, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire was used. Results: Total 29 cases (7.25%) had ocular rosacea, out of 400 dermatological confirmed cases of rosacea. Amongst confirmed ocular rosacea, 12 (41.4%) were males and 17 (58.6%) were females. Most manifestations were noted in 41 to 60 years age with an average age of 52.2 years. Most of the cases presented with multiple symptoms and signs- 19 presented with features of dry eyes, 16 had features of conjunctivitis, 6 had blepharitis, and 7 had recurrent chalazions. Conclusion: Ocular rosacea is a diagnostic enigma to clinicians as it is underdiagnosed because of overlapping sign and symptoms. This study emphasises ocular examination in all cases of rosacea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exponentially increasing network traffic requires hundreds of terabits per second data transmission rate, consuming around 9% of the electricity worldwide. Massive parallel optical links demanded to support the data transmission capacity, but not favorable in terms of scalability, energy consumption, complexity, cost, and size. A single laser source followed with semiconductor optical amplifier based optical frequency comb enabling data transmission of 6.78 Tbps over an 80 km single-mode fiber (SMF) is a possible solution to reduce the energy consumption, complexity, cost, and area. The data transmission over 80 km SMF also makes it suitable for inter-data center communication. So, in the proposed work, the evenly spaced and phase-coherent 113 frequency lines individually modulated using differential quadrature phase-shift keying at the bit rate of 30 Gb/s and then multiplex using polarization and wavelength multiplexing technique to transmit signal over 94.4 km (80 km single core and single mode fiber and 14.4 km dispersion compensating fiber). The proposed work has also carried out the detailed analysis of optical frequency comb parameters required for its application in telecommunication. Following the procedure mentioned earlier, a signal at the minimum quality factor of 23 dB with total transmission rate of 6.78 THz for 226 users is achieved at the receiving end, making the work suitable for telecommunication and inter-data-center communication applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on correction notice "Association between serum osteocalcin and atherosclerosis in type-2 diabetes mellitus."

In our previous communication, we have reported the synthesis of a new chlorogermylene (B) featuring a pyridylpyrrolido ligand. This study details the preparation of a series of new germylenes and stannylenes starting from B. A transmetallation reaction between B and SnCl2 led to the analogous chlorostannylene (1) with the simultaneous elimination of GeCl2. This is a very unusual example of transmetallation between two elements of the same group. The preparation of 1via lithiation led to the formation of 2 as a side product, where the ortho C–H bond of the pyridine ring was activated and functionalized with a nBu moiety. Subsequently, B and 1 were used as precursors to generate germylene (4) and stannylene (5) featuring tris(trimethylsilyl)silyl (hypersilyl) moieties. We also prepared tetrafluoropyridyl germylene (6) by reacting 4 with C5F5N with the simultaneous elimination of (Me3Si)3SiF by utilizing the fluoride affinity of the silicon atom. As there is scarcity of Sn(II) compounds as single-site catalysts, we investigated 5 as a catalyst towards the hydroboration of aldehydes, ketones, alkenes and alkynes. All the compounds have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and by state of the art spectroscopic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposed a proof-of-concept methodology for the investigation of paper samples by utilizing ATR-FTIR spectroscopy supported by chemometric methods. An attempt on the analysis of aged writing papers due to the degradation of their chemical constituents with time has been made. The degradation of its constituents with time is directly linked to the age of the paper since its production. This further links the questioned document with the fraudster, and sometimes it becomes crucial information in the court of law to reach to conclusion. The present study offers a method to discriminate, and estimate the age of unknown writing paper. The statistical models like Curve Estimation (CE), multiple linear regressions (MLR), and partial least squares regression (PLSR), are built to predict the age of the papers. The maximum dating errors are in the CE model whereas, MLR and PLSR models show excellent age estimation of unknown paper with minimum error of ±5 days and ±3 days in actual and estimated date of artificial ageing respectively. The present methodology is expected to provide valuable insight for answering the queries related to the date/age of the suspected document documents/paper artefacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effect of gamma irradiations on morphological and biochemical variations of in vitro shoots, regenerated plants and rhizomes of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) var. Himgiri. In vitro established shoot cultures were treated with different doses of gamma irradiations (10–100 Gy). Nonirradiated shoots were used as controls. Radio sensitivity of shoots and in vitro growth parameters were recorded. Surviving shoots along with controls were multiplied, rooted and hardened. Irradiation effect on chromosomes was evaluated by comparing with controls. Various morphological and biochemical observations were recorded in regenerated plants and rhizomes and compared to controls. Irradiated shoots showed decline in survival percentage (95% in 10 Gy to 12.33% in 100 Gy) with increase in dose rate after 4 weeks of irradiation. Shoot survival significantly decreased with irradiation dose rate above 20 Gy. Shoot multiplication rate showed an increase from 1:2 in 1st subculture to 1:9 after 5th subculture, in 10 Gy irradiated cultures with 4.5 cm average length of shoots and 8.19 number of leaves after 5th subculture. Average rooting showed an increase from 15.55% after 2nd subculture to 100% after 5th subculture, in 10 Gy irradiated shoots; however, no multiplication and rooting was observed in higher doses. In vitro rooted shoots were subjected to hardening with 100 percent survival in a mixture comprised of soil, cocopeat and FYM. One-year-old hardened plants when observed for morphological variations showed nonsignificant variations in comparison to controls. Rhizomes obtained from 10 Gy irradiated plants showed enhanced concentration of 6-gingerol and reduced crude fiber content when compared with controls. Gamma irradiation doses up to 10 Gy resulted in nonsignificant phenotypic variations but can positively affect biochemical composition of rhizomes leading to development of biochemically improved mutant lines of ginger with increased 6-gingerol and lowered crude fiber content. Therefore, suggesting the lower doses of gamma irradiations for improvement of biochemical constituents in vegetatively propagated plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposed an approach to design an evenly spaced, 1.8 THz spectrally broad and 1.6 dB flat optical frequency comb (OFC) by exploiting the cross-phase modulation in highly nonlinear fiber. The OFC is realized by controlling the phase of the signals in two parallelly placed highly nonlinear fibers. The frequency and line spacing of the OFC can be tuned by simply varying the periodicity and central wavelength of input electrical and optical signal, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]