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In present paper a micromechanics method is developed to evaluate effective coefficients of piezoelectric fiber reinforced composites. Exact solution is derived for effective elastic, piezoelectric and dielectric coefficients of such piezocomposite subjected to the applied load in the direction transverse to the fiber orientation. Simultaneously, based on the finite element method a numerical study is performed on a representative volume element of the piezocomposite containing fibers in square packing arrangement. From results, it is observed that the method developed in present study provides better results for the effective coefficients susceptible to the fiber packing arrangements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient third-order iterative method for inverting the cumulative central beta distribution numerically is proposed. First, a third-order iterative method for finding zeros of the solution of second-order homogeneous linear ODEs is designed. This method is derived by approximating the integration obtained from the second-order ODE. The method is exact for any function f with a constant logarithmic derivative of f ′ . Sufficient conditions are obtained to ensure the nonlocal convergence of the proposed method. As an application, an interesting numerical algorithm is obtained for inverting the cumulative central beta distribution. To demonstrate the proposed theory, numerical simulation results were presented and compared with the existing algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a nine-level inverter topology is proposed with the least number of switches and other components for fault tolerant (FT) operation. The proposed fault tolerant topology requires only one additional switch to execute the fault tolerant operation. The proposed topology also results in reduced total harmonic distortion (THD) as compared with other reported fault tolerant topologies for a 9-level output. A detailed analysis of the topology is presented and the fault tolerant operation is demonstrated under any single, double, triple, and quadruple switch faults using MATLAB/ Simulation and OPALRT hardware in loop (HIL) real time simulator. The proposed concept is validated for single and multiple switch faults and R-L load variation on a low scale laboratory hardware set-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-cost electric vehicles (EVs) prefer induction motor (IM) based drive systems which are mostly operated with 2-level inverters (2LIs) because they require fewer component counts and minimum control complexity. While an IM operated with 2LI has a higher total harmonic distortion (THD) and lower efficiency. An indirect current vector control (ICVC) scheme is an effective and simplest control scheme used for IM of EVs. This ICVC scheme required one speed sensor and three current sensors which increased its cost and control complexity. Therefore, in this paper, a cascaded H-bridge 3-level inverter (CHB-3LI) fed IM drive (IMD) is presented. A modified ICVC scheme having only one speed sensor is presented and used to control the CHB-3LI fed IMD. The steady-state and transient performances of CHB-3LI fed IMD with the modified ICVC scheme are analyzed through simulation in MATLAB Simulink and validated through experiments on a developed laboratory setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioremediation is crucial for recuperating polluted water and soil. By expanding the surface area of substrates, biosurfactants play a vital role in bioremediation. Biosurfactant-producing microbes release certain biosurfactant compounds, which are promoted for oil spill remediation. In the present investigation, a biosurfactant-producing bacterium Bacillus tequilensis was isolated from Chilika Lake, Odisha, India (latitude and longitude: 19.8450 N 85.4788 E). Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) of Bacillus tequilensis was carried out using Illumina NextSeq 500. The size of the whole genome of Bacillus tequilensis was 4.47 MB consisting of 4,478,749 base pairs forming a circular chromosome with 528 scaffolds, 4492 protein-encoding genes (ORFs), 81 tRNA genes, and 114 ribosomal RNA transcription units. The total raw reads were 4209415, and the processed reads were 4058238 with 4492 genes. The whole genome obtained from the present investigation was used for genome annotation, variant calling, variant annotation, and comparative genome analysis with other existing Bacillus species. In this study, a pathway was constructed which describes the biosurfactant metabolism of Bacillus tequilensis. The study identified that genes such as SrfAD, SrfAC, SrfAA and SrfAB are involved in biosurfactant synthesis. The sequence of the genes SrfAD, SrfAC, SrfAA, SrfAB was deposited in GenBank database with accession MUG02427.1, MUG02428.1, MUG02429.1, MUG03515.1 respectively. The whole genome sequence was submitted to GenBank with an accession RMVO00000000 and the raw fastq reads were submitted to SRA, NCBI repository with an accession: SRX5023292. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India has 50 registered breeds of native cattle (Bos indicus) which are locally adapted to diverse environmental conditions. This study aimed to investigate the genomic basis of adaptation of native Indian cattle and to predict the impact of key SNPs on the amino acid changes that affect protein function. The Illumina 777 K BovineHD BeadChip was used to genotype 178 native cattle belonging to contrasting landscapes and agro-climatic conditions. The genotype-environment association was investigated with R. SamBada, using 5,74,382 QC passed SNPs and 11 predictor variables (10 multi-collinearity controlled environmental variables and 1 variable as "score of PCA" on ancestry coefficients of individuals). In total, 1,12,780 models were selected as significant (q < 0.05) based on G score. The pathway ontology of the annotated genes revealed many important pathways and genes having a direct and indirect role in cold and hot adaptation. Only ten SNP variants had a SIFT score of < 0.05 (deleterious), and only two of them, each lying in the genes CRYBA1 and USP18, were predicted to be deleterious with high confidence. RaptorX predicted the tertiary structures of proteins encoded by wild and mutant variants of these genes. The quality of the models was determined using Ramachandran plots and RaptorX parameters, indicating that they are accurate. RaptorX and I-Mutant 2.0 softwares revealed significant differences among wild and mutant proteins. Adaptive alleles identified in the present investigation might be responsible for the local adaptation of these cattle breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electric vehicle uses multiple energy-storage systems to power the traction motor. Dual-source inverters (DSIs) are used for single-stage power conversion by skipping the dc/dc boost converter stage; therefore, eliminating the passive magnetic storing element which improves the overall efficiency of the drive; moreover, multiple energy-storage systems improve the power density of the system. This article discusses the fine control of a traction motor from zero speed to rated speed supplied through a dual-source inverter. Field-oriented control with space vector modulation technique is applied to achieve closed-loop control. Two dc sources are used, one having a higher-voltage battery and one a lower-voltage battery. The higher-voltage battery is the main battery which supplies power to the traction motor, whereas the lower-voltage battery supplies power to supplementary loads of the EV. This article presents improved dynamic behaviour of an induction-motor-driven EV fed from a dual-source inverter using modified closed-loop field-oriented control with space vector modulation. The improvement includes reduced control complexity due to space vector modulation and achieving the option of EV operation in an emergent situation using the same converter and control system. The simulated performance of the presented system is obtained in MATLAB/Simulink. A step-down experimental prototype is used for verification of effective control of the induction motor as the EV is under constant torque variable speed operation with real-time parameters such as power, power factor, current harmonics, and voltage/current stresses across the switch using two batteries individually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Worldwide, twenty-one per cent of deliveries are by elective cesarean Sections (C/S) as a lifesaving procedure to diminish maternal and neonatal mortality. Blood loss during C/S is more than that during vaginal delivery. Therefore, reducing blood loss during the C/S is essential and challenging for Anaesthesiologists. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of intravenous oxytocin and tranexamic acid + ethamsylate (TXA+Eth) in reducing blood loss in the elective lower segment (L/S) C/S in pregnant at high risk for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). Methods: A single-centre, prospective, randomised, and doubleblind study was started after obtaining institutional ethical approval among gravid undergoing elective L/S C/S at full-term pregnancy at high risk for PPH at the SAMSRI between September 2021 and March 2022. Study participants received an infusion of either oxytocin 10 International Unit (IU) or TXA 1 g + Eth 250 mg before the skin incision for C/S. The primary outcome was the blood loss calculation, along haemoglobin and haematocrit before and after the surgery. The secondary outcome was the percentage of participants who progressed into PPH and required blood transfusion. Results: Analyses included 132 women in each group, and results showed that TXA + Eth significantly reduced bleeding during and after cesarean delivery in pregnant at high risk for PPH. In oxytocin and TXA + Eth groups, postoperative blood loss was (613.7 ±123.7 and 406.2±116.5) ml, respectively, p<0.001. The duration of surgery (DOS) in oxytocin and TXA + Eth groups were (48.5±9.3) and (44.3±9.8) minutes, respectively (p= 0.287). The blood transfusion requirement in the oxytocin and TXA + Eth groups were 10.69% and 0.75%, respectively (p= 0.023). The PPH in the oxytocin and TXA + Eth groups were 2.30% and 0%, respectively (p<0.017). Pre and postoperative haemoglobin and haematocrit values at 12 hours after C/S in the oxytocin (10.78 and 8.29) and (32.23+25.10) and TXA + Eth groups were (11.07 and 10.02) and (33.20 and 30.73), respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The use of TXA and Eth is safe and more effective than oxytocin in minimizing blood loss during C/S, the demand for blood transfusion, with the stability of haematologic profile during cesarean delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are certain cattle breeds which are adaptable to the temperate type environmental conditions of high altitude regions of Himalayas. The genome of such cattle have signature of adaptability in the genes related to the hypoxia. Therefore, the current study was undertaken on three hypoxia related genes (EGLN2, EGLN3 and EPAS1) in four breeds of cattle adapted to the diverse agro-climatic conditions of high (Ladakhi and Siri) and low (Hallikar and Kankrej) altitude. Methods: The genotyping of the samples was carried out by using 777 K BovineHD BeadChip (Illumina) at Agri genome Pvt. Ltd (Kerala) and the in-silico analysis of the samples was carried out at ICAR-NBAGR during 2019-2020. The SNPs underlying the genes were evaluated for the gene and genotypic frequencies at nine SNP loci residing in these three candidate genes (EGLN2, EGLN3 and EPAS1). The diversity parameters for these SNPs were assessed by GenAlEx 6.2 software and Minor Allele Frequency (MAF) differences among the breeds were calculated by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) using SAS software. The mi-RNA binding sites in the 3'UTR region of genes were identified by TargetScan software. Result: Higher level of polymorphism was obtained in the Ladakhi and Siri breeds of cattle of high altitude/cold adapted region than Hallikar and Kankrej of plain and hot arid/semi-arid region. Several mi-RNA binding sites were obtained in the 3'UTR region of these 3 genes by Target Scan software. The polymorphism obtained in these candidate genes can be utilized in the markers assisted selection of the animals more adapted to the extreme cold and high altitude region for their genetic improvement as well as designing tools for the therapy of the diseases prevalent at high altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Postoperative infections represent a significant burden of disease, demanding antibiotic prescriptions, and are contributing to antimicrobial resistance. The burden of infection as a surgical complication is greater in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We report the protocol of a pilot study for the co-design, implementation and evaluation of two infection prevention and control (IPC) and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions across the surgical pathway in a teaching hospital in India. Methods and analysis: The two interventions developed following in-depth qualitative enquiry are (i) surveillance and feedback of postoperative infections to optimise the use of antibiotics in two surgical departments (gastrointestinal and cardiovascular and thoracic surgery) and (ii) raising awareness amongst patients, carers and members of public about IPC and AMS. We will conduct a prospective study, formatively evaluating the implementation process of delivering the two co-designed interventions using implementation science frameworks. The study will systematically assess the context of intervention delivery, so that implementation support for the interventions may be adapted to the needs of stakeholders throughout the study. Analysis of implementation logs and interviews with stakeholders upon completion of the implementation period, will offer insights into the perceived acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility and sustainability of the interventions and their implementation support. Implementation costs will be captured descriptively. Feasibility of clinical data collection to investigate effectiveness of interventions will also be assessed for a future larger study. Thematic framework analysis and descriptive statistics will be used to report the qualitative and quantitative data, respectively. Strengths and limitations of this study: • The paired interventions have been co-designed from their inception with involvement of stakeholders at different stages in the surgical pathway. • Simultaneous evaluation of implementation and clinical outcomes will inform the development of a future larger study to enable/assess the scalability of interventions • The study offers a novel combination of implementation theory-informed, stakeholder-driven and clinically relevant evaluation, carried out in the context of a middle-income country hospital. • The project may not be applicable to every low-resource setting and surgical context due to differences in healthcare systems and cultures. However, the application of implementation science concepts may facilitate transferability and adaptation to other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is a severe metabolic disorder, which consistently requires medical care and self-management to restrict complications, such as obesity, kidney damage and cardiovascular diseases. The subtype gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs during pregnancy, which severely affects both the mother and the growing foetus. Obesity, uncontrolled weight gain and advanced gestational age are the prominent risk factors for GDM, which lead to high rate of perinatal mortality and morbidity. In-depth understanding of the molecular mechanism involved in GDM will help researchers to design drugs for the optimal management of the condition without affecting the mother and foetus. This review article is focused on the molecular mechanism involved in the pathophysiology of GDM and the probable biomarkers, which can be helpful for the early diagnosis of the condition. The early diagnosis of the metabolic disorder, most preferably in first trimester of pregnancy, will lead to its effective long-term management, reducing foetal developmental complications and mortality along with safety measures for the mother. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reinforcement of natural fibre and fillers in polymer resin is the latest trend followed by research groups and industries for the development of sustainable composites. Basalt fibre and waste marble powder are naturally occurring substances used to enhanced polymer properties. The present research examined the effect of both basalt fibre and waste marble powder in epoxy resin. The hand lay-up method was employed to fabricate the composite and test for mechanical and wear behaviour. The tensile, flexural, and impact energy were enhanced up to 7.5 wt. % of WMP, and the Vickers hardness of epoxy enhanced every state of reinforcement of WMP. The specific wear rate was observed to be increased with the addition of WMP until 7.5 wt. %. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to examine the nature of fractured surface wear phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The techniques based on wind pattern matching index (WPMI) and pressure centroid have been utilised to identify and track the tropical cyclone (TC) using National Centers for Environmental Prediction-Global Forecast System (NCEP-GFS) model analysis and forecasts. For the WPMI, a threshold value is used to detect the center of the cyclonic storm. The threshold value is determined by maximising the probability of detection (POD) and minimising the false alarm ratio (FAR). The POD and FAR are computed using 226 cases of cyclonic conditions that include 11 TCs and 300 cases of non-cyclonic conditions during the period 2015–2017. Low-level (at 850 hPa) wind fields and surface pressure from GFS analysis as well as forecasts have been used to detect the center location of analysed cyclones. The pressure centroid is estimated within a circumference that covers the TC inner core. The detected center position is used to generate 6-hourly track up to 120 h forecasts for 15 cyclones, which formed during the period 2018–2020 and subsequent to this track forecast, errors obtained from both the schemes are estimated with respect to the best track of cyclone provided by India Meteorological Department. The performance of both the schemes has been examined and based on the averaged error analysis of 15 cyclones, it is noted that the track forecast produced from the WPMI scheme was improved by 0.8–21.8% in 12–120 h forecasts with respect to the pressure centroid method. In addition, landfall error for all the cyclones has also been calculated and verified against observations. It was found that the WPMI scheme is able to predict the landfall position with least error. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) is a core regulator in the retention of stemness, invasive, and self-renewal properties in glioma initiating cells (GSCs) and its overexpression inhibits the differentiation of glioma cells promoting tumor cell proliferation. The Pit-Oct-Unc (POU) domain comprising POU-specific domain (POUS) and POU-type homeodomain (POUHD) subdomains is the most critical part of the Oct4 for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells from somatic cells that lead to tumor initiation, invasion, posttreatment relapse, and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, the present investigation hunts for natural product inhibitors (NPIs) against the POUHD domain of Oct4 by employing receptor-based virtual screening (RBVS) followed by binding free energy calculation and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS). RBVS provided 13 compounds with acceptable ranges of pharmacokinetic properties and good docking scores having key interactions with the POUHD domain. More Specifically, conformational and interaction stability analysis of 13 compounds through MDS unveiled two compounds ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 which stabilized the backbone of protein even in the presence of linker and POUS domain. Additionally, ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 exhibited stable and strong interactions with key residues W277, R242, and R234 of the POUHD domain even in dynamic conditions. Interestingly, ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 established communication not only with the POUHD domain but also with the POUS domain indicating their incredible potency toward thwarting the function of Oct4. ZINC02145000 and ZINC32124203 also reduced the flexibility and escalated the correlations between the amino acid residues of Oct4 evidenced by PCA and DCCM analysis. Finally, our examination proposed two NPIs that can impede the Oct4 function and may help to improve overall survival, diminish tumor relapse, and achieve a cure not only in deadly disease GBM but also in other cancers with minimal side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the drivers for infection management and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) across high-infection-risk surgical pathways. A qualitative study—ethnographic observation of clinical practices, patient case studies, and face-to-face interviews with healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients—was conducted across cardiovascular and thoracic and gastrointestinal surgical pathways in South Africa (SA) and India. Aided by Nvivo 11 software, data were coded and analysed until saturation was reached. The multiple modes of enquiry enabled cross-validation and triangulation of findings. Between July 2018 and August 2019, data were gathered from 190 hours of non-participant observations (138 India, 72 SA), interviews with HCPs (44 India, 61 SA), patients (six India, eight SA), and case studies (four India, two SA). Across the surgical pathway, multiple barriers impede effective infection management and AMS. The existing implicit roles of HCPs (including nurses and senior surgeons) are overlooked as interventions target junior doctors, bypassing the opportunity for integrating infection-related care across the surgical team. Critically, the ownership of decisions remains with the operating surgeons, and entrenched hierarchies restrict the inclusion of other HCPs in decision-making. The structural foundations to enable staff to change their behaviours and participate in infection-related surgical care are lacking. Identifying the implicit existing HCP roles in infection management is critical and will facilitate the development of effective and transparent processes across the surgical team for optimized care. Applying a framework approach that includes nurse leadership, empowering pharmacists and engaging surgical leads, is essential for integrated AMS and infection-related care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmonics in the power system are increasing due to increased use of power electronic devices in load. Power electronic devises results in nonlinear loading of the distribution system network creating problem of harmonics. Harmonics effects the distribution transformers in distribution system as well as Power Transformer at the grid substation resulting in more losses, production of extra heat, reduction in efficiency and accelerated ageing of insulation. In this paper a feeder of PSPCL is modelled using EPRI open source distribution system simulator (Open DSS) and effect of harmonics due to nonlinear loading measured from distribution system on the power transformer at grid substation supplying the modelled feeder is evaluated for capacity reduction and loss of life as per IEEE standard C57.110–1998. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reflex cardiorespiratory alterations elicited after instillation of nociceptive agents intra-arterially (i.a) are termed as 'vasosensory reflex responses'. The present study was designed to evaluate such responses produced after i.a. instillation of histamine (1 mM; 10 mM; 100 mM) and to delineate the pathways i.e. the afferents and efferents mediating these responses. Blood pressure, electrocardiogram and respiratory excursions were recorded before and after injecting saline/histamine, in a local segment of femoral artery in urethane anesthetized rats. Paw edema and latencies of responses were also estimated. Separate groups of experiments were conducted to demonstrate the involvement of somatic nerves in mediating histamine-induced responses after ipsilateral femoral and sciatic nerve sectioning (+NX) and lignocaine pre-treatment (+Ligno). In addition, another set of experiments was performed after bilateral vagotomy (+VagX) and the responses after histamine instillation were studied. Histamine produced concentration-dependent hypotensive, bradycardiac, tachypnoeic and hyperventilatory responses of shorter latencies (2–7 s) favouring the neural mechanisms in eliciting the responses. Instillation of saline (time matched control) in a similar fashion produced no response, excluding the possibilities of ischemic/stretch effects. Paw edema was absent in both hind limbs indicating that the histamine did not reach the paws and did not spill out into the systemic circulation. +NX, +VagX, +Ligno attenuated histamine-induced cardiorespiratory responses significantly. These observations conclude that instillation of 10 mM of histamine produces optimal vasosensory reflex responses originating from the local vascular bed; afferents and efferents of which are mostly located in ipsilateral somatic and vagus nerves respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce (h 1 , h 2) -preinvex interval-valued function and establish the Hermite–Hadamard inequality for preinvex interval-valued functions by using interval-valued Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals. We obtain Hermite–Hadamard-type inequalities for the product of two interval-valued functions. Further, some examples are given to confirm our theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonintrusive damage assessment of concrete structures is evolving using newer technological interventions. Researchers are using different assessment techniques having their intrinsic limitations. A few are partially destructive, whereas others only provide qualitative information about the damages. Therefore, there is a need for a method using high-resolution imaging techniques for the assessment of exact damages and their depth along with intensity. Millimeter wave may be one of the good options for damage assessment. It is an efficient technique used in imaging applications due to its high resolution and effective penetration. Therefore, a novel millimeter wave assessment method is used in this study as a nondestructive post-fire damage test of concrete based civil engineering structures. An active millimeter wave radar system of 55–65 GHz has been used to measure the complex relative permittivity of concrete cube specimens for evaluation of damages caused by fire. In this study, fire damaged and control concrete cube specimens of 150 mm size were used for the measurement. The results were compared with the existing technique of ultrasonic pulse velocity, and it was found to be in good agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The global concern over antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is gathering pace. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are at the epicentre of this growing public health threat and governmental and healthcare organizations are at different stages of implementing action plans to tackle AMR. The South Indian state of Kerala was one of the first in India to implement strategies and prioritize activities to address this public health threat. Strategies: Through a committed and collaborative effort from all healthcare related disciplines and its professional societies from both public and private sector, the Kerala Public Private Partnership (PPP) has been able to deliver a state-wide strategy to tackle AMR A multilevel strategic leadership model and a multilevel implementation approach that included developing state-wide antibiotic clinical guidelines, a revision of post-graduate and undergraduate medical curriculum, and a training program covering all general practitioners within the state the PPP proved to be a successful model for ensuring state-wide implementation of an AMR action plan. Collaborative work of multi-professional groups ensured co-design and development of disease based clinical treatment guidelines and state-wide infection prevention policy. Knowledge exchange though international and national platforms in the form of workshops for sharing of best practices is critical to success. Capacity building at both public and private institutions included addressing practical and local solutions to the barriers e.g. good antibiotic prescription practices from primary to tertiary care facility and infection prevention at all levels. Conclusion: Through 7 years of stakeholder engagement, lobbying with government, and driving change through co-development and implementation, the PPP successfully delivered an antimicrobial stewardship plan across the state. The roadmap for the implementation of the Kerala PPP strategic AMR plan can provide learning for other states and countries aiming to implement action plans for AMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since HIV-1 integrase makes use of host genome machinery to accomplish the replication process, where LEDGF/p75 (a cellular cofactor) executes in the lentiviral integration process by interacting with integrase. Thus, the integrase-LEDGF/p75 interaction has become an interesting drug target in developing a potent agent. The purpose of the present study is to understand the inhibition mechanism with a structural basis of developed integrase inhibitors against viral infection. Herein, the computational approaches like atom-based 3D-QSAR, docking, MM/GBSA, DFT, and MDS were applied on a series of acylhydrazone, hydrazine, and diazene derivatives as integrase inhibitors. The developed 3D-QSAR model resulted in great predictive ability with training set (R2 = 0.98, SD = 0.07) and for test set (Q2 = 0.89, RMSE = 0.14, Pearson R = 0.90). The binding mode of interaction and involvement of energy on most and least active compounds into the LEDGF/p75 binding pocket of integrase were explored. We also observed that the predicted 3D-QSAR model has a good level of potential support by means of favorable and unfavorable regions of hydrogen bond donor, acceptor (electron-withdrawing), and hydrophobic groups for most active compound 7. This approach helps further to design anti-HIV inhibitors based on binding mode interaction and stability analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today P2P (Peer-to-Peer) networks are gaining popularity for sharing the contents. Due to massive spreading of Internet, these networks are also growing fast. MP2P (Mobile P2P) networks are attracting many users due to increase in the Internet-based mobile applications. These networks suffer from many challenges which are not considered for analysis and modelling adequately. We focus on few challenges like mobility of users, churn rate, intermittent bandwidth, shorter life span of mobile nodes, stabilization of finger table, etc. in this paper. We analytically analyse these challenges and define the effects of different parameters over the performance. Traditional P2P protocols are designed for wired networks and when these are implemented for mobile networks then mobility effect of users adds more challenge for researchers. We select two types of mobility models namely FF (Fluid Flow) and RWP (Random Waypoint) models to model the users' mobility. The churn rate of the mobile nodes makes network overlay management and content searching more difficult in MP2P networks. We select finger table-based protocols which are widely deployed in the P2P networks. But these protocols can't perform well in the mobile P2P networks due to mobility of the users. The mobility of the users and churn rate of the mobile nodes create failure in lookup of finger table and induce more cost to update the finger table. We consider these challenges and quantify the failure rate of mobile nodes, life span of mobile nodes, available bandwidth, cost of stabilization of finger table per node, etc. in this proposal. The proposed model is useful for modelling the performance of MP2P networks performance in various wireless environments like Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs), Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs), Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), Vehicular Ad hoc Networks (VANETs), Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wireless MAN (WMAN), etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents control strategies developed with two-level coordinated and double loop control for a standalone microgrid. The interfacing inverter is controlled to perform multifunctions. It incorporates the compensation for power quality problems at the point of common coupling and controls the voltage and frequency deviation to provide a constant voltage and frequency to connected ac loads in standalone and grid-connected operating modes. The power demand during battery charging and discharging is controlled using a buck–boost converter. To control overshoot and settling time while following a dc and sinusoidal references without losing control during the transition, proportional-integral, and proportional-resonant controllers with optimal gain designs are reinforced by antiwindup feedback. To ensure a soft and secure transition, even under disturbances, such as distortions and notches, an enhanced phase-locked loop is used. The performance of this system is simulated in MATLAB and validated on a 2-kW laboratory prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We measured the picoseconds (ps) transient photomodulation (PM) dynamics of photoexcitations in blends of regio-regular poly(3-hexyl-thiophene) [RR-P3HT] (donors-D) and indene-C60 bisadduct (fullerene derivative) [ICBA] (acceptor-A) that phase-separate into D- and A-nano-domains, in a broad spectral range from 0.25 to 2.5 eV; in comparison with steady state PM spectra. We correlate our measurements with organic photovoltaic solar cell performance made from the same D and A materials. In D-A blends of RR-P3HT/ICBA with (1.2:1) weight ratio having solar cell power conversion efficiency of ∼5.1%, we found that although the intrachain excitons in the polymer nano-domains decay within ∼10 ps, no charge polarons are generated on their expense up to ∼1 ns. Instead, there is a built-up of charge-transfer (CT) excitons at the D-A domain interfaces that occurs with the same kinetics as the exciton decay. The CT excitons dissociate into separate polarons in the D- and A-nano-domains at a much later time (>1 ns). This 'two-step' charge photogeneration process is typical in organic bulk heterojunction cells. Our results emphasize the important role of the CT state in generating free charge polarons in organic solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report studies on brick-lime stepwell plasters used in the construction of twelfth century Gandhak-ki-baoli in south Delhi. The analytical examinations were performed using thin section, sieve analysis, XRD, XRF, FTIR, SEM-EDX and thermal analysis of the plasters. Studies indicate that elevated temperature fired coarse brick aggregate mainly improved the mechanical properties and permeability of the plaster. The coarse brick grains played the role of filler, as analytical examination evidenced the existence of partial hydraulicity in the plasters. Sieve analysis demonstrates the use of mainly medium to coarse size aggregate grains leading to better carbonation of lime. XRD and FTIR data indicate brick used was fired at a high temperature that destroyed the crystalline structure of the clays and loss of pozzolanic activity due to the reduced surface area and formation of high-temperature mineral phases. The Calcium silicate formed at the brick-lime junction reduced the porosity and improved the strength of the plaster beside making the plaster partial hydraulic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low-profile multi-input-multi-output (MIMO)/diversity antenna suitable for wireless local area network (WLAN) applications is presented. In the proposed antenna, two identical elements (each of size 20 × 47 mm2) are designed to operate at 2.4 GHz and other two identical elements (each of size 20.5 × 20 mm2) at 5.8 GHz. All elements of the proposed diversity antenna are printed on 1.6 mm thick FR-4 substrate in a coplanar configuration. By optimizing the distance between the antenna elements (in horizontal and vertical directions), optimal isolation and diversity performance are achieved. Compared to a single feed dual-band antenna, the MIMO/diversity antenna has the ability to transmit or receive the 2.4 and 5.8 GHz signals simultaneously, without any external switching circuit between the module and the proposed antenna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study two promising bacterial strains were isolated from textile sludge and studied for biosurfactant production. These strains were identified as Stenotrophomonas sp. BAB-6435 and Brevisbacillus brevis BAB-6437. Growth, biosurfactant production and stable emulsification of both bacteria were optimized through response surface methodology using a Box-Behnken design (BBD). The optimum conditions included a pH of 8.5, a temperature of 42 °C and a NaCl concentration of 5 mg 100 mL−1. The biosurfactants produced by Stenotrophomonas sp. BAB-6435 and Brevisbacillus brevis BAB-6437 were purified and characterized by TLC, FTIR, SEM-EDS and GC-MS. The functional biosurfactant molecules were identified as glycolipid (Palmitic acid-Ribo-Gala-Malt) and lipopeptide (Steric acid-Ala-Ala-Gly-Leu-Se-Pro-As) from Stenotrophomonas sp. BAB-6435 and Brevisbacillus brevis BAB-6437, respectively. Both of the biosurfactansts have excellent surface tension reduction abilities at lower critical micelle concentrations (CMCs). Purified biosurfactants also exhibited antimicrobial activity toward pathogenic microbes while they were found to be nontoxic in seed germination tests. The results indicate that the biosurfactants from Stenotrophomonas sp. BAB-6435 and Brevisbacillus brevis BAB-6437 have unique properties including excessive foam-forming, antimicrobial activity and a lack of toxicity, which facilitate their environmental use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis A, an acute inflammatory liver disease caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection from close contact with infected people, is highly endemic in the Indian subcontinent. Due to poor sanitary conditions, most of the population is exposed to the virus in childhood. At this age, the disease is asymptomatic and provides life-long protection against the disease. Due to rapid socioeconomic development in some areas, however, pockets of the population are reaching adolescence/adulthood without prior exposure to the virus and are thus susceptible to infection. At these ages, infection carries a higher risk of symptomatic disease and complications including mortality. This review of epidemiology and burden of disease studies in the Indian subcontinent, published since 2005, shows increasing evidence of a shift from high to intermediate endemicity in high-income—typically urban—populations. The prevalence of anti-HAV antibodies (previously reported at > 90%) is lower now in adolescents and young adults (e.g., around 80% in Bangladesh and 55% in 5–15 years in India). As a result, HAV is responsible for more acute viral hepatitis predominantly in this age group (e.g., > 15 years: 3.4% in 1999 to 12.3% in 2003 or high socioeconomic status 13–20 years: 27% in 1999 to 62% in 2003), with a greater clinical and economic burden. Numerous outbreaks due to HAV have been reported [e.g., Sri Lanka (2009–2010): > 13,000 affected; Kashmir (2015–2017): 12 outbreaks; Kerala (2012–2016): 84 outbreaks] from water or food contamination. Due to current shifts in endemicity, a growing proportion of the population is no longer exposed in childhood. As the disease remains highly endemic, it also provides a source for more severe disease in susceptible people at an older age and for outbreaks. Well-tolerated and effective vaccines are available and help prevent disease burden and provide long-term protection. These should now be used more widely to protect more patients from the growing disease burden of hepatitis A. Funding: GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA. Plain Language Summary: Plain language summary available for this article—please see Fig. 1 and the following link: 10.6084/m9.figshare.9963044. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer Diseases (AD), Parkinson Diseases (PD) are a huge public health problem. The elucidation of their pathophysiological mechanism is one of our greatest challenges. Hyperactive immune system contributes to the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. Methods: In this review article, we have highlighted the neurodegenerative role of CDK5 and its involvement in Amyloid precursor pathway via Beta secretase enzyme. Results:All the landmark research reports for CDK5 were considered for this review and its involvement in disrupted autophagy and hyper immune response is the key cause for neurodegeneration. Conclusion: In conclusion, the present review focus on the pathways associated with Cdk5 and its role in causing neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a comprehensive controller of a standalone microgrid is implemented, which has three dispersed generation units based on a wind, solar photovoltaic (PV) array, and a diesel generator (DG). The power ratio variable step perturb and observe method is applied to achieve maximum power point tracking of a solar PV array and a variable speed wind turbine coupled a permanent magnet brushless dc generator without rotor/wind speed sensors. Moreover, to ensure perfect synchronization of a DG to the point of common coupling (PCC), a control algorithm is developed, which is based on in-phase and quadrature units. An active power control based on proportional–integral controller with anti-windup, is used for voltage and frequency regulation. The LCL filter based on virtual resistor, is used for power quality improvement at PCC. Simulation and test results are presented for the validation of the proposed system using a prototype of 2 kW in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmonics in the power system are increasing due to increased use of power electronic devices in load. Power electronic devises results in nonlinear loading of the distribution system network creating problem of harmonics. Harmonics effects the distribution transformers in distribution system as well as Power Transformer at the grid substation resulting in more losses, production of extra heat, reduction in efficiency and accelerated ageing of insulation. In this paper a feeder of PSPCL is modelled using EPRI open source distribution system simulator (Open DSS) and effect of harmonics due to nonlinear loading measured from distribution system on the power transformer at grid substation supplying the modelled feeder is evaluated for capacity reduction and loss of life as per IEEE standard C57.110–1998. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study analyzed ROH and consensus ROH regions in 102 animals of eleven diverse Indian goat (Capra hircus) breeds using whole genome sequencing. A total of 51,705 ROH and 21,271 consensus regions were identified. The mean number of ROH per animal was highest in the meat breed, Jharkhand Black (2693) and lowest in the pashmina breed, Changthangi (60). The average length of ROH (ALROH) was maximum in Kanniadu (974.11 Kb) and minimum in Tellicherry (146.98 Kb). Long ROH is typically associated with more recent inbreeding, whereas short ROH is connected to more ancient inbreeding. The overall ROH-based genomic inbreeding (FROH) was highest for Jharkhand Black (0.602) followed by Kanniadu (0.120) and Sangamneri (0.108) among all breeds. FROH of Jharkhand Black was higher than Kanniadu up to 5 Mb ROH length category. However, in > 20 Mb ROH length category, Kanniadu (0.98) exhibited significantly higher FROH than Jharkhand Black (0.46). This implies that Kanniadu had higher levels of recent inbreeding than Jharkhand Black. Despite this, due to the presence of both recent and ancient inbreeding, Jharkhand Black demonstrated higher overall FROH compared to Kanniadu. ROH patterns revealed dual purpose (meat and dairy) and pashmina breeds as less consanguineous while recent inbreeding was apparent in meat breeds. Analysis of ROH consensus regions identified selection sweeps in key genes governing intramuscular fat deposition, meat tenderisation, lean meat production and carcass weight (CDK4, ALOX15, CASP9, PRDM16, DVL1) in meat breeds; milk fat percentage and mammary gland development (POLD1, NOTCH2, ARHGAP35) in dual purpose (meat and dairy) breeds; while cold adaptation and hair follicle development (APOBEC1, DNAJC3, F2RL1, FGF9) in pashmina breed. MAPK, RAS, BMP and Wnt signaling pathways associated with hair follicle morphogenesis in Changthangi were also identified. PCA analysis based on ROH consensus regions revealed that meat breeds are more diverse than other goat breeds/populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scatterometer winds are useful in weather forecasting and cyclone monitoring related activities. The Indian Space Research Organization has launched SCATSAT-1, which is a follow-up mission of the Oceansat-2 scatterometer in September 2016. It operates in the Ku-band frequency and provides wind vector data over oceanic region from sun synchronous polar orbit. SCATSAT-1 wind vector data are validated against buoy observations, other scatterometer observations and numerical weather prediction (NWP) analysis. It is found that SCATSAT observations are of good quality in comparison with other similar types of measurements. Impact of assimilation of these observations in NWP forecasts is investigated using the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting Global Forecast System (NGFS). The NGFS model employs a three-dimensional variational-ensemble Kalman filter (3D Var-EnKF) hybrid assimilation system with a deterministic model of T-1534 resolution and 80 member ensembles of T-574 resolution. Impact of assimilation of SCATSAT-1 observations in prediction of the Kyant, Nada and Varadha cyclones formed in the Bay of Bengal region and impact on operational forecasts are discussed. Assimilation of SCATSAT observations produced marginal improvement in general NWP forecast statistics and improvement is observed in cyclone track forecasts if observations are available near the cyclone position at analysis time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pertussis is an under-recognized cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. To review information on the epidemiology and disease burden of neonatal pertussis in South and Southeast Asian countries, a systematic literature review of three bibliographic databases was undertaken. Peer-reviewed original studies on neonatal pertussis epidemiology and burden published since 2000, with a geographical scope limited to South and Southeast Asian countries, were included. Data were systematically extracted based on parameters defined a priori. Our findings show that the burden of neonatal pertussis and its complications is substantial. An increase in the number of pertussis cases has been noted since early 2000, ranging from 61 to 92.9% in infants 0–3 months old. The most common symptoms an infant is likely to present with are cough with or without paroxysms, cyanosis, apnea, tachypnea, difficulty in breathing and leukocytosis. In addition, it can lead to hospitalization (length of stay: 5–7 days), complications (e.g., pneumonia, seizures) and mortality ranging from 5.6 to 14.7%. Other observations indicate that diagnosis is challenging because of non-specific clinical symptoms. Specifically, for obstetricians and gynecologists, the information available for making informed decisions on the prevention of neonatal pertussis is unreliable. Maternal immunization against pertussis during late stages of pregnancy has proven to be efficacious and well tolerated. A high burden of neonatal pertussis, as well as its complications, is observed in South and Southeast Asian countries. There is a need to intensify efforts to protect this vulnerable population with maternal vaccination. Funding: GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA Plain Language Summary: Plain language summary available for this article. Please see Fig. 1 and the following link: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.7951187. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Distribution transformer is a most important component of the distribution system to provide uninterrupted power supply to the consumers and it should be highly reliable. Distribution transformer failure affects the reliability and power quality of the supply system. This paper presents distribution transformer failure analysis to find out causes of failures responsible for very high rate of failure in a state owned electric utility Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) in India. Detailed failure analysis is conducted on 348 distribution transformers failed from 2010 to 2015 in a city based sub division area. Failure analysis is carried out in accordance with IEEE standards and summarized the results statistically in the first part. In second part, the failure modes, effect and criticality analysis (FMECA) is used to analyse distribution transformer failure modes, causes of failure and effects of failure. Further, criticality analysis is performed and a risk priority number is assigned based upon the severity classification, probability of occurrence and probability of detection to identify most critical parts of transformer. FMECA leads to identify preventive actions to be taken to reduce the risk of the transformer in future by eliminating the causes of failure, reducing severity and probability of occurrence. Highlights • Analysis of distribution transformer failure in conjunction with a real time data of failure in public sector utility. • Failed transformers are analysed for month wise, year wise, age wise, component wise failure and causes of failure. • Failure Modes, effect and criticality analysis (FMECA) to identify most critical components of transformer. • Compensatory provision are provided to save the distribution transformer from premature failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Glutamate, a major neurotransmitter in the central nervous system of human, plays a crucial role in various neurological pathways by activating the ligand-gated ion channels such as mGluR and iGluR. Dysfunction of mGluR 5 can cause Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression, anxiety, etc. In the current study, we have developed the energetically optimized pharmacophore model to screen the eMolecules database having more than 6 million compounds with the help of reported cocrystal structure with 3-chloro-5-[6-(5-fluoropyridin-2 yl)pyrimidin-4-yl]benzonitrile (PDB ID: 5CGD). The obtained hits were docked into the allosteric site of the target and further validation of E-pharmacophore was done by enrichment calculations followed by the molecular dynamics simulations to analyze the specific amino acid interactions with the compound present in the allosteric site of the receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a comparative performance analysis of three (03) different algorithms operating in the control plane of the three (03) varied architectures such as Physically Distributed, Logically Distributed, and Physically Centralized Architecture has been done. The paper also elucidates the working and implementation of the three proposed architectures with suitable block diagram of system model. Besides, in these architecture models OpenFlow (OF) governed various MATLAB components have been designed such as Application Controller, Optical Transport Network Controller, SDOWN Controller, Ethernet switch-1 and 2, ROADM and Wi-Fi access point with suitable interfaces. Pseudo codes of the algorithms operating in above said MATLAB components are duly explained with flowcharts. Mathematical analysis of three different architecture in respect of latency is carried out, and results and discussions with suitable figures have also been represented. The results obtained show that out of three (03) aforesaid architectures the Physical Centralized Architecture has better performance upto 45 Km in terms of Q-factor, SNR, BER, Jitter and Latency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract There is manifold increase in global Internet traffic with the advancement of time and provision of ubiquitous Internet access efficiently in terms of Quality of Service and Experience (QoS and QoE) is a serious challenge for the service provider with existing conventional network technology. With Software Defined Optical Wireless Networking (SDOWN) technology world seems to move toward the Next Generation Network (NGN) which exposes itself to resolve many limitations of a conventional/traditional manually operated optical-wireless network via software-assisted and efficient network control through centralized controller. In this research paper, a layered and logical architecture of the proposed SDOWN model and mathematical analysis are presented. The paper also elucidates the implementation of SDOWN model with and without SDOWN Controller with the help of block and state diagrams. Besides, in this model OpenFlow (OF) governed six (06) MATLAB components has been designed such as SDOWN Controller, Ethernet switch-1 & 2, Optical switch-1 & 2, and Wi-Fi access point with suitable interfaces. Software Defined Networking (SDN) Controller interfacing with optical-wireless network i.e. SDOWN and its performance analysis have been carried out with the state-of-the-art (SotA), where pseudo codes of algorithms and flowcharts for the same are duly explained, which provides Unified Control Plane (UCP) via SDOWN Controller for better QoS and QoE. Simulation results and discussions with suitable Figures have also been presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Almost, one third of the world's urban population resides in slums and the number would double by 2030. Slums denotes collection of people from various communities having a meagre income and living in unhygienic conditions thus making themselves most vulnerable for outbreaks of communicable diseases. India contributes substantially to the global disease burden and under-five mortality rates i.e. 20% attributable to vaccine preventable diseases. Immunization plays a crucial role in combating high childhood mortality rates attributable to vaccine preventable diseases across the globe. This systematic review, provides insights on immunization status in slums, identifies various factors influencing it thus, exploring opportunities that may be available to improve vaccination coverage under the National Immunization Program.Methods: Taking into account the above aspects, a review of literature was undertaken in various databases that included studies published between 2006 and 2017.Results: In India, ~33% of the urban population lives in slums with suboptimal vaccination coverage ranging from 14% to upto 90%. Few of the important causes for low coverage included socioeconomic factors such as poor community participation, lack of awareness, frequent migration, and loss of daily income. Hence, mere presence of vaccines in the National Immunization Program doesn't do the job, there is a definite unmet need to emphasize upon the importance of immunization among slums dwellers and take necessary steps. For instance, delivering immunization services at the doorstep (e.g. pulse polio program), community-based education, text messaging as reminders and incentivized immunization services are some of the opportunities that can be explored and implemented to improve immunization status in the slums.Conclusion: Thus, in addition to inclusion of more and more vaccines in the National Immunization Program, there is a definite need to focus on people living in high risk areas in order to improve coverage and healthcare indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The real and complex zeros of some special entire functions such as Wright, hyper-Bessel, and a special case of generalized hypergeometric functions are studied by using some classical results of Laguerre, Obreschkhoff, P'olya, and Runckel. The obtained results extend the known theorem of Hurwitz on the exact number of nonreal zeros of Bessel functions of the first kind. Moreover, results on zeros of derivatives of Bessel functions and the crossproduct of Bessel functions are also given, which are related to some recent open problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sounder for Probing Vertical Profiles of Humidity (SAPHIR) is a sounding instrument of Megha-Tropiques (Indo-French joint satellite); launched by the Indian Space Research Organization on 12 October 2011 with six channels near the absorption band of water vapour at 183 GHz. In the framework of this work, the assimilation scheme has been first modified to enable the SAPHIR radiance observations being used as additional observation type and second, a methodology has been prepared to remove the radiance pixels significantly affected by clouds. The impact of SAPHIR radiances on analysis as well as forecasts of the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting-Global Forecast System (NGFS) at T574L64 resolution has been investigated through data assimilation. Measurements from SAPHIR are incorporated into the Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation three-dimensional variational assimilation system to provide the improved initial conditions. To find out the impact, analysis/forecast cycling experiments with and without SAPHIR radiances are performed during the period 10-29 November 2013. The impact of the improvement in term of root mean square error has been clearly evaluated for five parameters, namely, relative humidity, temperature, wind, geopotential height and specific humidity. It is demonstrated that the assimilation of SAPHIR observations results in a considerable improvement for the five parameters over the global region. During the study period, two tropical cyclones (HELEN, 19-22 November and LEHAR, 23-28 November) were formed over the North Indian Ocean. Impact on specific humidity and track forecast errors of tropical cyclone are also examined. Overall, initial results show the usefulness of SAPHIR radiances in the NGFS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of software defined networking (SDN) has played a significant role in the development of next-generation networks (NGN). SDN as a programmable network having 'service provisioning on the fly' has induced a keen interest both in academic world and industry. In this article, a comprehensive survey is presented on SDN advancement over conventional network. The paper covers historical evolution in relation to SDN, functional architecture of the SDN and its related technologies, and OpenFlow standards/protocols, including the basic concept of interfacing of OpenFlow with network elements (NEs) such as optical switches. In addition a selective architecture survey has been conducted. Our proposed architecture on software defined heterogeneous network, points towards new technology enabling the opening of new vistas in the domain of network technology, which will facilitate in handling of huge internet traffic and helps infrastructure and service providers to customize their resources dynamically. Besides, current research projects and various activities as being carried out to standardize SDN as NGN by different standard development organizations (SODs) have been duly elaborated to judge how this technology moves towards standardization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to assess the effect of the heat stress on the hematological and physio-biochemical parameters of sheep breeds thriving in hot and arid climatic conditions. Thirty animals (female) of about one and half year of age from each sheep breed (Chokla, Magra and Marwari) were used for the estimation of hematological and physio-biochemical parameters under normal (lower Temperature Humidity Index of 65) and heat stress condition (higher Temperature Humidity Index of 84). T test analysis revealed significantly higher values in the heat stressed condition for SGOT, respiratory rate and pulse rate in afternoon hours; and significantly lower values for Hb%, PCV%, Triglycerides and Cholestrol for all the three breeds. Magra breed of sheep had highest overall adaptability (83.29%) followed by Marwari (80.41%) and Chokla with the least adaptability (79.13). Higher overall adaptability in Magra sheep in this region might be due to the white and lustrous coat of Magra which reflects the sun light more as compared to other sheep breeds. However, the effect was found to be non-significant (P > 0.05). Therefore, it is concluded that these sheep breeds are equally adaptable to the hot and arid climatic conditions of this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Intra-arterial injection of Mesobuthus tamulus (BT) venom produces reflex vasosensory responses modulating cardiorespiratory parameters in albino rats. The present study was conducted to understand the role of kinin receptors in modulating vasosensory reflexes evoked by BT venom. Materials and Methods: In urethane-anesthetized rats, tracheostomy was performed to keep the airway patent. The femoral artery was cannulated proximally, as well as distally, to record the blood pressure (BP) and to inject the chemicals, respectively. Electrocardiographic and respiratory excursions were recorded to compute the heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR). A group of animals was pretreated with saline/kinin receptor antagonists intra-arterially (B1/B2 receptor antagonists) before the injection of venom. Results: After intra-arterial injection of BT venom (1 mg/kg), there was an immediate increase in RR, which reached to 40% within 30 s, followed by a decrease of 40%. Further, there was sustained increase in RR (50%) up to 60 min. The BP started to increase at 40 s, peaking at 5 min (50%), and remained above the initial level up to 60 min. The bradycardiac response started after 5 min which peaked (50% of initial) at 25 min and remained at that level up to 60 min. In B1 receptor antagonist (des-Arg) pretreated animals, venom-induced cardiovascular responses were attenuated (by 20-25% in mean arterial pressure and HR) significantly but not in B2 receptor antagonist (Hoe-140) pretreated animals. Either of the antagonists failed to alter the RR responses. Conclusions: BT venom-induced vasosensory reflex responses modulating cardiovascular parameters are mediated via B1-kinin receptors in anesthetized rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a complete position sensorless control scheme for permanent magnet brushless DC motors (PMBLDCMs) using back-EMF sensing method. The controller is designed in such a way that it provides smooth shifting from open-loop speed-up mode to back-EMF sensing mode at any speed, especially at very low speeds, i.e., less than 2% of the rated speed. The proposed scheme is a simple and cost effective implementation of back-EMF sensing method, which does not require any filtering or phase shift to generate commutation pulses. The proposed controller is designed and modeled for a PMBLDCM rated at 4600rpm, 310V and 2.2Nm torque and its performance is simulated in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. The obtained simulation results are validated on a prototype developed in the lab using a digital signal processor (DSP) namely TI 2812 DSP in a wide range of speeds in position sensorless mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-resolution melting (HRM) assay is a novel tool for polymorphism analysis. We describe here the application of HRM analysis for screening of two polymorphic sites on the ZFY gene (ZFY-9 and ZFY-10) present at male specific region of bull Y-chromosome which are generally being used to identify Y-chromosome haplotypes (Y1, Y2 and Y3) in many cattle breeds/population world wide.The Y-chromosome haplotypes are important for the understanding of effective male contribution, Y-chromosome diversity and male lineages.Wetested 20bulls with known genotypes for two sites(ZFY -intron 9, 120> C/T; and ZFY- intron 10, 655> C/T)that were previously genotyped by Allele Specific PCR (ASPCR) and validated through direct sequencing (two representative samples from each region) and then examined the sensitivity of mutati on detection using quantitative PCR (qPCR) followed by HRM curve analysis. Absolute concordance was observed among AS-PCR, direct sequencing and HRM analysis. Known Y- chromosome [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the prevalence and correlates of tobacco use during pregnancy in a rural area of India.Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, 400 women who gave birth between June 20, 2011, and June 19, 2012, were enrolled in the district of Pakur in Jharkhand, using multistage cluster sampling. Information on tobacco use, awareness of associated adverse health effects, and exposure to secondhand smoke was collected by interview. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to find correlates of tobacco use.Results: Overall, 59 (14.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 11.0%-18.7%) women reported tobacco use during pregnancy. Awareness of the adverse health effects of tobacco during pregnancy was poor for 213 (53.3%) women. Tobacco use during pregnancy was significantly associated with an age of 25 years or older (odds ratio [OR] 8.20, 95% CI 2.48-27.15; P = 0.001) and poor awareness of adverse health effects (OR 4.48, 95% CI 2.03-9.90; P < 0.001).Conclusion: There is an urgent need to prevent tobacco use among pregnant women in India and to offer tobacco cessation services during prenatal checkups to those who continue tobacco use during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims Gastroparesis-like syndrome (GLS) is defined as gastroparesis-like symptoms with normal gastric scintigraphy. While the efficacy of gastric electrical stimulation (GES) in gastroparesis is well known, the utility of GES in GLS is largely unknown. Our aim was to clarify the role of GES in GLS. We implanted consecutive patients with symptoms of gastroparesis with temporary gastric electrical stimulation and observed changes in gastric scintigraphy and total symptom score. Methods Five hundred and fifty-one patients suffering from symptoms of gastroparesis (nausea, vomiting, bloating/distension, anorexia/ early satiety, and abdominal pain) with negative endoscopy underwent gastric scintigraphy with analysis of 1) solid radionuclide gastric emptying at 1, 2, and 4 hours (% remaining); 2) area under the gastric emptying curve (AUC) at 1, 2, and 4 hours; and 3) total gastric emptying test (GET) (the sum of 1, 2, and 4 hour values). Patients were stratified into: delayed gastric emptying, normal gastric emptying, and rapid gastric emptying (Appendix). Of the 551 patients in the larger cohort, 379 had implantation of temporary gastric electrical stimulation (tGES). Gastrointestinal symptoms and gastric emptying were com - pared pre and post tGES implantation. Results After tGES, 2 hour gastric retention decreased (P < 0.01) for the delayed patients, and increased (P< 0.001) for normal and rapid patients. These changes were accompanied by improvements (P< 0.001) in vomiting, nausea, and total symptom scores in all 3 subgroups. Conclusions Gastric electrical stimulation may be an effective therapy for treating the symptoms of gastroparesis with normal gastric emptying. Further exploration of endoscopic electrical stimulation as a treatment for gastroparesis-like symptoms with non-delayed gastric emptying is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]