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A novel triazole derivative was synthesized and characterized by various spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR, NMR and single crystal X-ray diffraction study. The title compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P 1 ¯ and exhibits inter-molecular hydrogen bonds of the type C–H...O and C–H...N. Hirshfeld surface analysis shows that the major intermolecular interaction is mainly due to H...H contacts. DFT calculations were performed to study their electronic properties. QTAIM and NCI studies were used to investigate the weak interactions in five triazole derivatives including the title compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study involved assessment of genetic variability and trait association of seed yield and its component traits in 20 EMS-derived stable mutant lines of black aromatic rice. The traits grain yield / plant, harvest index, effective tillers and biological yield/ plant recorded maximum GCV and PCV. Heritability estimates ranged from 67 percent for total number of tillers/ plant to 99 percent for days to 50 percent flowering. The trait grain yield per plant revealed high heritability (>80%) coupled with high advance in genetics (>50%). The traits fertile spikelets per panicle, effective tillers/ plant, biological yield, panicle length, and plant height were significantly and positively correlated with grain yield. The path analysis revealed maximum positive direct effects of fertile spikelets per panicle, harvest index, biological yield, grain length and effective tillers on grain yield indicating the selection of these traits for efficient crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent advancements in ad-hoc networks have resulted in innovations like FANETs. FANETs (Flying Ad hoc Networks) have become diversified in its applications ranging from agriculture, military, emergency services etc. The FANET environment needs to be dynamic and is populated by UAVs. The highly mobile UAVs are responsible for data transmission between nodes. If unchecked, this results in packet loss. Reliable data transmission in FANETs is possible, if effective routing protocols are in place. In this research, a Secure Waterfall Energy-Efficient Protocol-Enabled Routing (SWEEPER) has been proposed which helps conserve the node energy throughout the transmission process. The framework uses a waterfall model approach which includes group key management as an underlying process governing the security aspect of the protocol. Asymmetric key cryptography is applied to our technique, which involves two unique nodes, labeled the Computed Key (CKey) and the Dissemination Key (DKey). The two nodes will generate, verify, and distribute the secret keys. This will help other nodes concentrate on transmission alone and needn’t waste time in computational activities or key handling. Security breaches and malignant nodes are also handled efficiently. The nodes along the route are selected based on a trust factor, which allows our protocol to select only genuine nodes to forward packets along the discovered path. Our work is analyzed with existing protocols of FANETS like SecRIP and MDRMA. The analysis reveals that our protocol outperforms the existing protocols in terms of minimal delay, maximum energy conservation and PDR, which contributes towards a maximized throughput. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This FANETs (Flying Adhoc NETworks) are supported by UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) which carry out the task of transmitting and receiving data. Transmission and routing are complicated by the highly mobile AUVs. Node links are temporary and may result in transmission related issues. FANETs are prone to network attacks, especially black hole attacks leading to heavy data loss. This may lead to packet drops which might compromise the transmitted data. The proposed Eagle Optimized Energy Efficient Optimal Route-Finding Protocol (EOEEORFP) selects an efficient route towards the destination. Factors like trust degree, priority queue, network delay, hop count and energy consumption levels are taken into consideration in designing the routing strategy. These factors help in identifying the nodes that form the trusted nodes in the routing path. This is achieved by employing the biological behavior of eagles in finding their prey. The suggested protocol works in two stages. In the initial stage, it sets up an optimal route with selective nodes (trusted nodes). In the second stage, the network security is fortified by eradicating black hole attacks by using RREP (Route Reply) packets strategically. The EOEEORFP protocol assures the successful data delivery by employing a trusted routing path. The proposed EOEEORFP protocol is assessed against Adhoc On demand Distance Vector (AODV) and AODV-V2 protocols to measure its performance. EOEEORFP achieves very good PDR and throughput while conserving the network energy by minimizing the network delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manual diagnosis of brain tumour tissues is particularly labourintensive as well as operator-dependent due to the intricacy of brain tissue. Traditional approaches are ineffective in the presence of these effects, necessitating the assessment of the photographs by professionals who can identify them. This research proposes a novel technique in brain tumour detection based on segmentation with classification utilizing DL architectures. Here, input has been collected as various brain slice image datasets. Initially, this image has been processed for resizing and smoothening and this image has been segmented. The segmentation has been carried out using local binary Gabor fuzzy C-means clustering. Then the segmented image has been classified for spotting the tumour using Berkeley's wavelet convolutional transfer learning. Based on the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, Jaccard's coefficient, spatial overlap, AVME, and FoM, the creative outcome of the approach used was evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater Acoustic Networks are gaining in popularity because of their usage in underwater communication. The communication is facilitated with sensors and AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles), also termed as UWCNs (Underwater Wireless Communication Networks). The QoS expected of underwater networks is effective transmission along with an extended lifespan of the network. This can be achieved with strategically placed clusters underwater which help in transmitting effectively. Clustering can be strategically used to securely transmit the data while conserving the node energy.This paper proposes an Optimal and Energy Efficient Framework for Cluster Communication Based Routing Protocol for UWCNs (OEEFCP).This scheme works in two phases. Phase-1 focuses on selecting an optimal CH (a Robust Cluster Head) which will be responsible for selecting an efficient carrier of data. Additionally, we have used probability in selecting the optimum number of clusters and CHs. Phase-2 uses an effective multipath energy model which will focus on transmitting data through effective communication channels. A RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value is used to determine a gateway node out of the optimal CHs. The robust gateway nodes thus selected will supply data to the AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles) nearest to them. The AUV nodes will then transfer the data via a communication link and thereon towards a destination on land. The proposed technique focuses on a cost effective solution for underwater transmission. The proposed OEEFCP is analyzed with existing schemes such as OC-TARE-TOPSIS and TARE-TOPSIS protocols, using the NS2 simulator. The analysis confirms that the proposed OEEFCP is capable of achieving a good performance in achieving an extended network lifespan, throughput, energy conservation and a maximized PDR. Our proposed OEEFCP scheme shows a 65% increase in PDR over the other existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: To compare the change in central macular thickness (CMT) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in subjects undergoing uneventful phacoemulsification and small incision cataract Surgeries (SICS). Methods: In this prospective observational study, patients undergoing uneventful cataract surgery were subdivided into two groups. Forty-five patients who underwent SICS were included in Group S (n = 45) whereas patients undergoing uneventful phacoemulsification were included in Group P (n = 50). Findings of slit-lamp examination, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and fundus examination were recorded for all cases on the first postoperative day as well as 6 weeks after surgery. CMT of participants was determined using spectral-domain OCT preoperatively and at 6 weeks' postoperatively. Results: Overall three patients had postoperative cystoid macular edema, one case in Group P and two cases in Group S. 98%of patients in Group P and 95.5% of patients in Group S achieved BCVA of 6/9 or more. In Group S, a significant difference was observed between preoperative and postoperative central subfield mean thickness (P < 0.01). In Group P preoperative and 6th week, postoperative mean macular thickness showed a significant difference (P = 0.03) only in the superior outer subfield. On comparing the change in CMT in the Group P with Group S, a significant difference was noted with markedly lesser chances of subclinical macular edema in the Group P. Conclusion: Although the increase in mean macular thickness postoperatively did not affect the final visual outcome in both the groups, Subclinical change in Group P was significantly lesser than that in Group S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines, the dissipativity‐based synchronization of a class of Markovian jump complex dynamical networks (CDNs) with additive time‐varying delays, reaction‐diffusion terms, and sampled‐data control. To reflect a large portion of the powerful acts of the network, the parameter uncertainties are studied. By construction a suitable Lyapunov functional and applying matrix inequality approach with Newton Leibniz formula, Writinger inequality sufficient conditions derived such that the complex dynamical systems is dissipative. Some new synchronization criteria are acquired regarding of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which can adequately be derived some available software. At last, a numerical illustration is inclined to demonstrate the usefulness the scheduled results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is an emerging boon to change the health care in a fundamental way. Currently nanomedicine is in the transition stage from the world of fiction to a revolutionizing world of healthcare. Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter at the molecular and atomic levels. The wide range of its clinical applications makes it to offer a promising future in the field of medicine as well as dentistry. Nanorobotics will expand enormously the effectiveness, comfort, and speed of treatments and significantly reducing their risk, cost and invasiveness. Although this rapidly advancing field of medicine offers a promising future, it may also pose a risk for misuse and abuse. Further extensive researches should be needed to pave a way for these breath-taking devices to revolutionize the future of healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the problem of /passive non-fragile synchronisation for a class of complex dynamical networks subject to Markovian jumping time-varying coupling delays. Gain variation is represented by a stochastic variable that is assumed to satisfy the Bernoulli distribution with white sequences. The synchronisation error system became stable through our designed controller. By Lyapunov–Krasovskii stability theory, a new stochastic synchronisation criterion is established for the considered network in terms of linear matrix inequality (LMI). An illustration is given to show effectiveness of the proposed theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we are discuss about the issue of synchronization for singular complex dynamical networks with Markovian jumping parameters and additive time-varying delays through pinning control by Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy theory. The complex dynamical systems consist of m nodes and the systems switch from one mode to another, a Markovian chain with glorious transition probability. Based on the control strategies are designed, the singular complex dynamical networks are synchronized. A new class of Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional, which contains integral terms is constructed to derive the stability criteria. Some sufficient conditions for synchronization in the form of linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach. Finally, numerical example is presented to support the main results of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose and explore the synchronization examination for fuzzy stochastic complex networks' Markovian jumping parameters portrayed by Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model with mixed time-varying coupling delays via impulsive control. The hybrid coupling includes time-varying discrete and distributed delays. Based on appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) approach, Newton–Leibniz formula, and Jensen's inequality, the stochastic examination systems and Kronecker product to create delay-dependent synchronization criteria that guarantee stochastically synchronous of the proposed T-S fuzzy stochastic complex networks with mixed time-varying delays. Adequate conditions for the synchronization criteria for the frameworks are established in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). At long last, numerical examples and simulations are given to demonstrate the correctness of the hypothetical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) is one of the world's most followed political leaders on Twitter. During the 2014 and 2019 election campaigns, he and his party used various social media networking and the Internet services to engage with young, educated, middle-class voters in India. Since his first sweeping win in the 2014 elections, Modi's political communication strategy has been to neglect the mainstream news media, and instead use social media and government websites to keep followers informed of his day-to-day engagements and government policies. This strategy of direct communication was followed even during a critical policy change, when in a politically risky move half-way through his five-year prime ministership, Modi's government scrapped more than 85 per cent of Indian currency notes in November 2016. He continued to largely shun the mainstream media and use his social media accounts and public rallies to communicate with the nation. As a case study of this direct communication strategy, this article presents the results of a study of Modi's Twitter articulations during the three months following the demonetization announcement. We use mediatization of politics discourse to consider the implications of this shift from mass communication via the mainstream news media, to the Indian prime minister's reliance on direct communication on social media platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates state estimation for complex dynamical networks (CDNs) with time-varying delays by using sampled-data control. For the simplicity of technical development, only two different sampling periods are considered whose occurrence probabilities are given constants and satisfy Bernoulli distribution, which can be further extended to the case with multiple stochastic sampling periods. By applying an input-delay approach, the probabilistic sampling state estimator is transformed into a continuous time-delay system with stochastic parameters in the system matrices, where the purpose is to design a state estimator to estimate the network states through available output measurements. By constructing an appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) containing triple and fourth integral terms and applying Wirtinger-based single and double integral inequality, Jenson integral inequality technique, delay-dependent stability conditions are established. The obtained conditions can be readily solved by using the LMI tool box in MATLAB. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the validity of the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose and study a global synchronization of delayed complex networks with hybrid coupling, which is composed of constant coupling, discrete-delay coupling, and unbounded distributed-delay coupling, and its actuator saturation control design is then further investigated. Several effective sufficient conditions of global synchronization are attained based on the Lyapunov function and a linear matrix inequality (LMI), which can be easily computed by the interior-point method. In addition, we established the control design of actuator saturation of the addressed stochastic delayed complex networks. More relaxed conditions by employing the new type of augmented matrices by using multitude Kronecker product terms can be handled, which can be introduced. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed synchronization scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigated synchronisation problem for stochastic Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy complex networks model with discrete and distributed time delays. By constructing a new Lyapunov functional and employing Kronecker product, we developed delay-dependent synchronisation criterions. By applying stochastic analysis techniques, we derive starting conditions for synchronisation complex networks of the addressed with mixed time-varying delays and stochastic disturbances are achieved. A numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness and usefulness of the proposed results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal sepsis is one of the most common cause of death among neonates in the developing countries. Neonatal infections are estimated to cause 1.6 million deaths every year all over the world and 40 % of deaths occurring in the developing countries like India. To determine the bacteriological profile and antibiogram in neonatal septicemia cases. 99 different neonates, clinically diagnosed were included. Blood specimens for culture were drawn. Bacteria was identified, antibiogram was determined and ESBL test was done Out of 99 clinically suspected cases, 44 cases were culture positive whereas 55 were culture negative. Gram positive bacteria were the most common isolates (68.18%) followed by gram negative bacteria (31.82%). Among the Gram positive bacteria, MRCONS (50%) was the most common followed by MRSA (%). Among gram negative bacteria, Klebsiella (11.36%) was the most common followed by acinetobacter (9.09%), E.coli and Pseudomonas. 93.18% of the cases were EOS whereas 6.82% cases were LOS.92% of CONS were sensitive to linezolid, 84% to chloramphenicol, and 68% to amikacin. All isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were sensitive to linezolid and chloramphenicol. Most of the Gram negative bacteria were resistant to the most commonly used antibiotics.64.28% of Gram negative bacilli were ESBL producers of which Klebsiella was the commonest (44.44%). The increasing spread of different bacteria differing in resistance patterns demands for evidence based practice in neonatal septicemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we propose a new mixed chain sampling plan based on the process capability index Cpk, where the quality characteristic of interest having double specification limits and follows the normal distribution with unknown mean and variance. In the proposed mixed plan, the chain sampling inspection plan is used for the inspection of attribute quality characteristics. The advantages of this proposed mixed sampling plan are also discussed. Tables are constructed to determine the optimal parameters for practical applications by formulating the problem as a non linear programming in which the objective function to be minimized is the average sample number and the constraints are related to lot acceptance probabilities at acceptable quality level and limiting quality level under the operating characteristic curve. The practical application of the proposed mixed sampling plan is explained with an illustrative example. Comparison of the proposed sampling plan is also made with other existing sampling plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) is a widely used wireless technology due to its flexibility and mobility in the presence of vulnerable security features. Several attempts to secure 802.11 standard ends up with the inadequate security mechanisms that are vulnerable to various attacks and intrusions. Thus, integration of external defense mechanism like intrusion detection system (IDS) is inevitable. An anomaly-based IDS employs machine learning algorithms to detect attacks. Selecting the best set of features is central to ensure the performance of the classifier in terms of speed of learning, accuracy, and reliability. This paper proposes a normalized gain based IDS for MAC Intrusions (NMI) to improve the IDS performance significantly. The proposed NMI includes two primary components OFSNP and DCMI. The first component is optimal feature selection using NG and PSO (OFSNP) and the second component is Detecting and Categorizing MAC 802.11 Intrusions (DCMI) using SVM classifier. The OFSNP ranks the features using an independent measure as normalized gain (NG) and selects the optimal set of features using semi-supervised clustering (SSC). The SSC is based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) that uses labeled and unlabeled features simultaneously to find a group of optimal features. Using the optimal set of features, the proposed DCMI utilizes a rapid and straightforward support vector machine (SVM) learning that classifies the attacks under the appropriate classes. Thus, the proposed NMI achieves a better trade-off between detection accuracy and learning time. The experimental results show that the NMI accurately detects and classifies the 802.11 specific intrusions and also, it reduces the false positives and computation complexity by decreasing the number of features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the causative pathogens of the patients diagnosed with Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) and to find out their antibiotic sensitivity by standard Kirby- Bauer disc diffusion method. A prospective cohort study was conducted over a period of one year six months in the ICU of our hospital.All the patients on mechanical ventilation were eligible,among them only clinically suspected VAP cases were enrolled excluding those patients with preexisting pulmonary infection at the time of admission or patients with multiple trauma or evidence of sepsis at the time of admission.Endotracheal aspirate was collected as sample in our study.Quantitative culture threshold of ≥105CFU/ml was considered to diagnose VAP in our study.Out of the total 60 patients enrolled,≥105CFU/ml was obtained from 28 patients who were categorized under VAP group.Growth of <105CFU/ml was obtained from 30 patients and 2 patients showed no growth,both of them being categorized under NO-VAP group. The most common bacteria isolated were Acinetobacter species(12),Klebsiella species(9),Pseudomonas species(5)followed less commonly by Staphylococcus aureus(1), Escherichia coli(1) and Coagulase negative Staphylococcus aureus(1).In our study most of the commonly isolated bacteria were sensitive to imipenem,cefoperazone-sulbactem followed by others.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Process capability indices (PCIs) are extensively used in the manufacturing industries in order to confirm whether the manufactured products meet their specifications or not. PCIs can be used to judge the process precision, process accuracy, and the process performance. So developing of sampling plans based on PCIs is inevitable and those plans will be very much useful for maintaining and improving the product quality in the manufacturing industries. In view of this, we propose a variables sampling system based on the process capability indexCpmk, which takes into account of process yield and process loss, when the quality characteristic under study will have double specification limits. The proposed sampling system will be effective in compliance testing. The advantages of this system over the existing sampling plans are also discussed. In order to determine the optimal parameters, tables are also constructed by formulating the problem as a nonlinear programming in which the average sample number is minimized by satisfying the producer and consumer risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a variables quick switching system where the quality characteristic of interest follows a normal distribution and the quality characteristic is evaluated through a process loss function. Most of the variables sampling plans available in the literature focus only on the fraction non-conforming and those plans do not distinguish between the products that fall within the specification limits. The products that fall within specification limits may not be good if their mean is too away from the target value. So developing a sampling plan by considering process loss is inevitable in these situations. Based on this idea, we develop a variables quick switching system based on the process loss function for the application of the processes requiring low process loss. Tables are also constructed for the selection of parameters of variables quick switching system for given acceptable quality level and limiting quality level. The results are explained with examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray studies of two liquid crystalline compounds, viz., p-ethoxybenzylidene p-heptylaniline (2O.7) and p-butoxybenzylidene p-heptylaniline (4O.7) are reported in this paper. The compound 2O.7 shows only a nematic phase while 4O.7 exhibits SmB, SmC, SmA, and nematic phases. Using powder X-ray diffraction patterns recorded at different temperatures, the microstructural parameters, and pair correlation function of these compounds have been estimated. The results obtained are inferred in terms of molecular ordering present in their nematic and smectic phases. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This article proposes a variables sampling plan that can be applied for sampling inspection of resubmitted lots when the quality characteristic of interest follows the normal distribution. Resubmission of lots for inspection is allowed in some situations where the original inspection results are suspected or when the supplier or producer is allowed to opt for resampling as per the provisions of the contract, etc. The advantages of this proposed variables sampling plan over the existing single sampling variables plan are discussed. Tables are also constructed for the selection of optimal parameters of known and unknown standard deviation variables resampling scheme for specified two points on the operating characteristic curve, namely, the acceptable quality level and the limiting quality level along with the producer and consumer's risks. The optimization problem is formulated as a nonlinear programming where the objective function to be minimized is the average sample number and the constraints are related to lot acceptance probabilities at acceptable quality level and limiting quality level under the operating characteristic curve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphomas account for approximately 2% of all malignancies of the thyroid gland. Infiltration of T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) into the thyroid gland is rare. This case is presented on account of the rarity of T-LBL infiltration into the thyroid gland. A 22-year-old male, diagnosed case of T-LBL by left cervical lymph node biopsy and immunohistochemistry (IHC) and on chemotherapy, presented with a thyroid swelling after 6 months of diagnosis of T-LBL. Ultrasound imaging of the neck showed symmetrically enlarged thyroid gland. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the thyroid swelling showed infiltration of lymphoma cells into the thyroid gland, which was confirmed with IHC. T-LBL is a high-grade lymphoma which rarely infiltrates the thyroid gland. Intensive chemotherapy regimens and long-term maintenance therapy improve the prognosis of T-LBL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process capability indices (PCI) are useful management tools, particularly in the production industry, which provide common quantitative measures on the production quality and capability. So sampling plans based on PCI will have wide applications in the production industries. This article proposes a variables quick switching system based on the PCI Cpk, where the quality characteristic of interest follows the normal distribution with unknown mean and variance. The proposed sampling system will be effective when testing is costly and destructive. The advantages of this system are also discussed. To determine the optimal parameters, tables are also constructed. The problem is formulated as a nonlinear programming where the objective function to be minimized is the average sample number and the constraints are related to lot acceptance probabilities at acceptable quality level and limiting quality level under the operating characteristic curve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presence of Aeromonas punctata in polyurethane foam and Agar-Agar matrices was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy after immobilization process. Free cells of A. punctata was able to show 100% degradation of Reactive Black 5 dye upto 100 ppm of dye concentration, whereas both PUF and Agar-Agar immobilized cells of A. punctata showed 100% degradation of Reactive Black 5 dye upto 200 ppm of dye concentration. On repeated use of PUF and Agar- Agar immobilized cells of A. punctata 100% degradation of Reactive Black 5 dye was recorded upto 10 cycles at 200 ppm of dye concentration. On continuous treatment, PUF immobilized cells of A. punctata showed 100% degradation of Reactive Black 5 dye upto 1600 ppm of dye concentration at 10 ml/hr flow rate and Agar-Agar immobilized cells of A. punctata could show 100% degradation of Reactive Black 5 dye upto 1800 ppm of dye concentration at 10 ml/hr flow rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have analyzed our experience regarding use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors especially imatinib mesylate in patients of chronic myeloid leukemia-chronic phase over last 7 years at our center (2002-2009). The object was to report long-term efficacy (hematological, cytogenetic and molecular) and toxicity. Overall, 775 patients were treated. Out of these, 576 were analyzable with a median follow-up of 3.6 years. The median age was 42 years. Complete cytogenetic response (CCyR) was achieved in 351/576 patients, i.e., 62.1%. Grade 3/4 adverse effects were observed in 36 patients, i.e., 6.25%. Age under 40 years, low Sokal score, complete hematological response and CCyR were significant predictive factors for event free survival (EFS) on univariate analysis while low Sokal score and early chronic phase were significant predictive factors for EFS on multivariate analysis. Our results are almost similar to those reported from various studies from western population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidases (SSAO) are widely distributed enzymes, with as yet not fully elucidated functions and roles, present in many tissues but also circulating in plasma. The enzyme also functions as an adhesion molecule, the vascular adhesion protein-1. In healthy humans, plasma SSAO activity is constant from birth until 16 years of age, when it drops to lower values, gradually increasing again at advanced ages. When measuring SSAO activity, care should be taken to ensure proper preparation and storage conditions, and it should be realized that quite a few drugs unintentionally are good inhibitors, and sometimes even substrates, of SSAO. Under normal conditions SSAO activity is constant and inter-individual variation is small. In various pathophysiological conditions plasma SSAO activities are increased, most notably in diabetes mellitus (both type I and type II), in congestive heart failure and in cirrhotic liver inflammation. In patients with other vascular and inflammatory diseases plasma SSAO is normal, while it is low in children with congenital lung diseases. Interpretation of these changes is speculative, since source and regulation of plasma SSAO are as yet unknown. However, in two situations where the disease-causing process was ended (transplantation, delivery), plasma SSAO returned to normal. Many questions remain to be answered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Examines the use of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance and calorimetry in determining the structural waters of helical peptides. Importance of water in the structure and function of biomolecules; Association of water with protein; Thermodynamics of structural waters.

Background Dietary potassium (K+) has emerged as a modifiable factor for cardiovascular and kidney health in the general population, but its role in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unclear. Here, we hypothesize that CKD increases the susceptibility to the negative effects of low and high K+ diets. Methods We compared the effects of low, normal and high KChloride (KCl) diets and a high KCitrate diet for 4 weeks in male rats with normal kidney function and in male rats with CKD using the 5/6th nephrectomy model (5/6Nx). Results Compared with rats with normal kidney function, 5/6Nx rats on the low KCl diet developed more severe extracellular and intracellular K+ depletion and more severe kidney injury, characterized by nephromegaly, infiltration of T cells and macrophages, decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate and increased albuminuria. The high KCl diet caused hyperkalemia, hyperaldosteronism, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis and severe hypertension in 5/6Nx but not in sham rats. The high KCitrate diet caused hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis but attenuated hypertension despite higher abundance of the phosphorylated sodium chloride cotransporter (pNCC) and similar levels of plasma aldosterone and epithelial sodium channel abundance. All 5/6Nx groups had more collagen deposition than the sham groups and this effect was most pronounced in the high KCitrate group. Plasma aldosterone correlated strongly with kidney collagen deposition. Conclusions CKD increases the susceptibility to negative effects of low and high K+ diets in male rats, although the injury patterns are different. The low K+ diet caused inflammation, nephromegaly and kidney function decline, whereas the high K+ diet caused hypertension, hyperaldosteronism and kidney fibrosis. High KCitrate attenuated the hypertensive but not the pro-fibrotic effect of high KCl, which may be attributable to K+-induced aldosterone secretion. Our data suggest that especially in people with CKD it is important to identify the optimal threshold of dietary K+ intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the problem of finite-time synchronization issue of sampled data Markovian jump complex dynamical networks (MJCDNs) with additive time-varying delays based on dissipative theory. Sufficient conditions to guarantee the finite-time stability of MJCDNs with additive time-varying delays are presented. Sampled-data control with stochastically varying sampling periods is considered. The closed-loop system is not just finite-time bounded but also satisfies the dissipativity conditions. Further we handled a nonuniform sampled data controller. By utilizing the properties of Kronecker product combined with the appropriate Lyapunov-functionals technique, a novel delay-dependent finite-time stability of dissipativity rule is derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) to ensure that the delayed complex dynamical systems to be dissipative. Finally numerical examples are given to represent the applicability of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Metabolic acidosis accelerates progression of chronic kidney disease, but whether this is also true for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is unknown. Methods Patients with ADPKD from the DIPAK (Developing Interventions to halt Progression of ADPKD) trial were included [ n  = 296, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 50 ± 11 mL/min/1.73 m2, 2.5 years follow-up]. Outcomes were worsening kidney function (30% decrease in eGFR or kidney failure), annual eGFR change and height-adjusted total kidney and liver volumes (htTKV and htTLV). Cox and linear regressions were adjusted for prognostic markers for ADPKD [Mayo image class and predicting renal outcomes in ADPKD (PROPKD) scores] and acid–base parameters (urinary ammonium excretion). Results Patients in the lowest tertile of baseline serum bicarbonate (23.1 ± 1.6 mmol/L) had a significantly greater risk of worsening kidney function [hazard ratio = 2.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21–7.19] compared with patients in the highest tertile (serum bicarbonate 29.0 ± 1.3 mmol/L). Each mmol/L decrease in serum bicarbonate increased the risk of worsening kidney function by 21% in the fully adjusted model (hazard ratio = 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.37). Each mmol/L decrease of serum bicarbonate was also associated with further eGFR decline (−0.12 mL/min/1.73 m2/year, 95% CI −0.20 to −0.03). Serum bicarbonate was not associated with changes in htTKV or htTLV growth. Conclusions In patients with ADPKD, a lower serum bicarbonate within the normal range predicts worse kidney outcomes independent of established prognostic factors for ADPKD and independent of urine ammonium excretion. Serum bicarbonate may add to prognostic models and should be explored as a treatment target in ADPKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anomalies of systemic venous connections are extremely rare. We describe the case of an asymptomatic 29-year-old woman who was found to have systemic desaturation in the peripartum period and referred to us for suspected cyanotic heart disease. She was diagnosed to have hemianomalous systemic venous connection of the inferior vena cava (IVC) into the left atrium (LA). Transesophageal echocardiogram with contrast diagnosed anomalous connection of the IVC to the LA, further confirmed by computed tomography and conventional angiography. The patient underwent successful surgical correction with an uneventful postoperative course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemotherapy the cornerstone of treatment of majority of childhood cancers. This is administration is achieved by the insertion of a catheter that delivers the drug into the central vein. In paediatric cases, the chances for infections are higher, and gives rise to high chances of febrile neutropenia. The present study attempts to evaluate the patterns of infection in paediatric cancer patients presenting with fever. Methods: A cross sectional study to evaluate the patterns of infections across instances of hospitalization due to fever amongst paediatric cases with prior cancer diagnosis was carried out. Data included basic anthropometry, presenting complaints, type of cancer and treatment history, biochemistry and microbiology data and present course of treatment. Results: Paediatric cases with known diagnoses of cancer, admitted with a complaint of fever, and satisfying the selection criteria were 176. The sample, with an age of 7.9±4.59 years and 121 males (68.8%), presented with complaints of fever alone (38.1%), or along with vomiting (14.2%), mucositis (12.5%), cough (8%), cold (4%), body chills (4%), headache (3.4%), and other symptoms. Of the 176 cases, 109 (61.9%) had liquid tumours comprising of 72 ALL (66.1%), 14 AML (12.8%), 9 Burkitt's Lymphoma (8.2%) and others, while of the 67 solid tumours, 45 (67.2%) cases of osteosarcoma, 6 (9%) cases of Wilms tumor, 5 (7.5) cases of neuroblastoma, etc. were seen. 'Porta-cath' insertion was done in 124 (70.5%) of the cases while a Hickman Catheter was inserted in 48 (27.3%) cases. Difference in the incidence of Bacterial growth in blood culture was assessed between solid and liquid tumours and was seen that solid tumours had higher incidence (8/67, 12%) as opposed to liquid tumours (4/109, 3.7%). Amongst solid tumours, those with porta-cath insertion had a higher incidence of infection (6/36, 16.7%) that those that had a Hickman catheter placed (2/29, 6.8%). Amongst liquid tumours however, although inconclusive, those with the porta-cath had a lower incidence of infection (3/88, 3.4%) that those that had a hickman catheter placed (1/19, 5.3%). Conclusions: Febrile neutropenia is a common complication in childhood cancer treatment. In the present study, the incidence of febrile neutropenia was seen more in haematological malignancies. Use of porta-cath has a higher infection rate as compared to Hickmans catheter in case of solid tumours. A larger observational study is needed to substantiate these findings [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of sampling plans and sampling systems (or schemes) have been designed in the literature with the intention of improving the discriminating power of operating characteristic curve of zero acceptance number single sampling plans. In this article, we propose one of such sampling schemes namely, tightened-normal-tightened scheme to assure the mean life of the products where the lifetime follows the Weibull or gamma distribution. In order to execute the sampling scheme, we determine the optimal parameters on the basis of two points on the operating characteristic curve approach and for such determination we consider different values of consumer's risk, shape parameters with predetermined producer's risk. The implementation of the proposed scheme is explained with real life data. The performance of the proposed scheme is compared with some other existing sampling plans in terms of average sample number. The operating characteristic curve is investigated to show the better performance of the proposed scheme. The average sample number obtained under both distributions is compared with each other. In addition, the economic aspect designing of the proposed scheme is investigated under both distributions and the comparative study is done on the cost of inspection of the proposed scheme with other existing plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours [GISTs] are rare but they commonly arise in stomach, and small or large intestines. They are usually accompanied with gastrointestinal bleeding. We are reporting a case of GIST which occurred in a 52-year-old male,who presented with acute abdomen. On laparotomy, the entire segment of jejunum was found to be partially encased in fibrocollagenous tissue, which formed a cocoon. Moreover, the intestine showed diffuse thickening with multiple tumour masses, which is an uncommon gross finding in GIST. This case report highlights variable clinical and morphological manifestations of GIST. Awareness on its rare clinical manifestations, including abdominal cocoon, may help in making an early diagnosis and providing timely appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a multiple deferred state repetitive group sampling plan which is a new sampling plan developed by incorporating the features of both multiple deferred state sampling plan and repetitive group sampling plan, for assuring Weibull or gamma distributed mean life of the products. The quality of the product is represented by the ratio of true mean life and specified mean life of the products. Two points on the operating characteristic curve approach is used to determine the optimal parameters of the proposed plan. The plan parameters are determined by formulating an optimization problem for various combinations of producer's risk and consumer's risk for both distributions. The sensitivity analysis of the proposed plan is discussed. The implementation of the proposed plan is explained using real-life data and simulated data. The proposed plan under Weibull distribution is compared with the existing sampling plans. The average sample number (ASN) of the proposed plan and failure probability of the product are obtained under Weibull, gamma and Birnbaum-Saunders distributions for a specified value of shape parameter and compared with each other. In addition, a comparative study is made between the ASN of the proposed plan under Weibull and gamma distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, designing methodology of quick switching sampling system under Weibull distribution for assuring product lifetime percentile is proposed. An optimization problem is formulated for determining the optimal parameters of the proposed system using two points on the operating characteristic curve approach. The operating procedure and designing methodology of the proposed system are discussed. A comparative study between the proposed system and other existing plans is accomplished in terms of average sample number and the operating characteristic curve is provided for analyzing the behavior of proposed system. In addition, the effect of mis-specification of shape parameter on the proposed sampling system is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional sampling plans are applied to dispose an individual lot or isolated lot that requires a large sample size. Consequently, the inspection time and cost needed to make a decision under conventional plans are high. In order to reduce the sample size and to inspect the series of lots with minimum cost and time, special purpose plans are utilized. In this article, we propose one of the special purpose plans, namely, a quick switching sampling system that is also known as a two-plan sampling system. Through this sampling system, the Weibull-distributed mean life of the product is ensured based on time-truncated life tests. The proposed system is designed with the intention of minimizing the average sample number using two points on the operating characteristic curve approach. The optimal parameters of the proposed system are determined for different combinations of producer’s risk and consumer’s risk. Implementation of the proposed system is also explained and the performance of the proposed system is compared with other existing plans. In addition, the effects of misspecification of shape parameters on optimal parameters and the probability of acceptance are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose the quick switching sampling system for assuring mean life of a product under time truncated life test where the lifetime of the product follows the Weibull distribution and the mean life is considered as the quality of the product. The optimal parameters of the proposed system are determined using two points on the operating characteristic curve approach for various combinations of consumer's risk and ratio of true mean life time and specified life time. Tables are constructed to determine the optimal parameters for specified acceptable quality level and limiting quality level along with the corresponding probabilities of acceptance. The proposed system is compared with other existing sampling plans under Weibull lifetime model. In addition, an economical design of the proposed system is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have proposed a multiple deferred state sampling plan for a time-truncated life test when the lifetime follows the Weibull distribution. The proposed sampling plan assures the percentile life of the products. The optimal plan parameters of the proposed plan such as the sample size, acceptance numbers, and number of successive lots required for making decision ( n, c , c , m) are determined based on two points on the operating characteristic curve approach. The optimal parameters of the proposed plan are determined using an optimization problem for various combinations of producer's risk, consumer's risk, and percentile ratios. An illustrative example is also provided for describing the implementation of the proposed plan. Finally, we have investigated economic aspect of designing of the proposed plan under Weibull distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of an 11-month-old boy who was suffering from complete bilateral cleft lip and a palpable, pulsating midline abdominal mass. Angiographic results showed a long tubular left ventricular apical diverticulum extending into abdomen anterior to liver. He was operated closure to the pericardial defect and then umbilical hernia repair and bilateral cleft lip repair was done. He was suffering from pentalogy of Cantrell, a midline syndrome.

The effect of phytochemicals in the aqueous root extracts of Decalepis nervosa Wight & Arn. (ARDN) (Family: Apocynaceae) was investigated on an anticonvulsant action in laboratory animals (mice). The DN roots were extracted using microwave extraction method with aqueous solvent using two parameters, such as temperature variation and extraction time. The phytochemical screening followed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) studies was performed. The pentylenetetrazole and isoniazid models were used with two doses, 250 mg and 500 mg, for the anticonvulsant effects of the ARDN extract. The microwave extraction during 15 min at 60°C temperature revealed the DN root aqueous extract yielded higher (36.20%) than other selected parameters. The phytochemical screening study indicated the existence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, and phenols, and further TLC, HPTLC studies confirmed the presence of Quercetin and Gallic acid that demonstrated a strong dose dependent anticonvulsant activity. The other biochemical parameters such as lipid peroxidation level showed significant dose-dependent inhibition in malondialdehyde content (29.86%) in mice brain, and also, glutathione content showed significant dose-dependent increased in percentage content (58.22%) in brain of mice. Finally, ARDN's potential anticonvulsant was first established through the optimized microwave extraction method with the presence of polyphenoilc phytoconstituents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this vitro study was to comparatively evaluate the adhesive bonding of dual cured resin luting agents with lithium disilicate ceramic material. Materials and Methods: Porcelain laminate veneers were prepared with lithium disilicate ceramic material i.e. IPS Empress II( E-Max Press). These laminates were bonded with RelyX ARC, Panavia F 2.0, Variolink II, Duolink and Nexus NX3. The porcelain laminates were etched with 9.6% hydrofluoric acid (Pulpdent Corporation) for one minute, washed for 15 sec with three way syringe and dried for 15 sec with air syringe. The silane (Ultradent) was applied with the help of applicator tip in a single coat and kept undisturbed for one minute. The prepared surfaces of the premolars were treated with 37% phosphoric acid (Prime dent) for 15 sec, thoroughly rinsed and dried as per manufactures instructions. The shear bond test was carried out on all samples with the Universal testing machine (Instron U.S.A.) The scanning electron microscopic study was performed at the fractured interface of representative samples from each group of luting agents. Result: In this study, the highest value of shear bond strength was obtained for NEXUS NX3 and the lowest for VARIOLINK II. Conclusion: The difference in bond strength can be interpreted as the difference in fracture resistance of luting agents, to which shearing load was applied during the shear bond strength test. It is inferred from this study that the composition of the luting agent determines the adhesive characteristics in addition to surface treatment and bonding surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Periplasmic copper and zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu, Zn-SOD or SodC) is an important component of the antioxidant shield which protects bacteria from the phagocytic oxidative burst. Cu, Zn-SODs protect Gram-negative bacteria against oxygen damage which have also been shown to contribute to the pathogenicity, of these bacterial species. We report the presence of SodC in drug resistant Salmonella sp. isolated from patients suffering from enteric fever. Further sodC was amplified, cloned into Escherichia coil and the nucleotide sequence and amino acid sequence homology were compared with the standard strain Salmonella Typhimurium 14028. Methods: Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) and Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi (S. Paratyphi) were isolated and identified from blood samples of the patients. The isolates were screened for the presence of Cu, Zn-SOD by PAGE using KCN as inhibitor of Cu, Zn-SOD. The gene (sodC) was amplified by PCR, cloned and sequenced. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences of sodC were compared using CLUSTAL X. Results: SodC was detected in 35 per cent of the Salmonella isolates. Amplification of the genomic DNA of S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi with sodC specific primers resulted in 519 and 515 bp amplicons respectively. Single mutational difference at position 489 was observed between the sodC of S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi while they differed at 6 positions with the sodC or S. Typhimurium 14028. The SodC amino acid sequences of the two isolates were homologous but 3 amino acid difference was observed with that of standard strain S. Typhimurium 14028. Interpretation & conclusions: The presence of SodC in pathogenic bacteria could be a novel candidate as phylogenetic marker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vestibular paroxysmia (VP) is attributed to neurovascular cross-compression due to vascular loops around the Vestibulocochlear nerve. The exact audio-vestibular profile of individuals with VP is uncertainly reported in literature. Thus, the study was aimed at reporting the results of audio-vestibular test battery in VP. A 37 year-old-female and a 30 year-old-male with tinnitus, giddiness, and positional vertigo underwent routine audiological testing, oto-acoustic emissions, auditory brainstem response, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, and chochlear hydrops analysis masking procedure which produced normal results. The Dix-Hallpike maneuver revealed positional vertigo and nystagmus while symptoms such as oscillopsia and giddiness were reported during central vestibular tests. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) report revealed labyrinthine artery loops around the VII and VIII cranial nerves. We conclude that subtle symptoms like oscillopsia, giddiness, or vomiting sensation on central vestibular tests should be carefully noted to enhance the identification of VP using audio-vestibular tests battery and MRI should be done for all cases presenting with symptoms of non-fatigable positional vertigo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the problem of finite-time boundedness and finite-time passivity of discrete-time T-S fuzzy neural networks with time-varying delays. A suitable Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional(LKF) is established to derive suficient condition for finite-time passivity of discrete-time T-S fuzzy neural networks. The dynamical system is transformed into a T-S fuzzy model with uncertain parameters. Furthermore, the obtained passivity criteria is established in terms of Linear matrix inequality (LMI), which can be easily checked by using the eficient MATLAB LMI toolbox. Finally, some numerical cases are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition affecting 10-30% of women in developed nations. The current recommended treatment for BV is oral or vaginal antibiotics; however, recurrence rates of up to 60% within 12 months of treatment have been reported previously. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Bacillus coagulans (SNZ-1969) against BV and the ability of this bacterial species to prevent BV recurrence in women aged 18-41 years. The study assessed 173 women, and of these women, 120 showed recurrent BV according to Nugent's and Amsel's criteria. These 120 women were randomly assigned to the following study arms: metronidazole arm and metronidazole + B. coagulans arm. The metronidazole + B. coagulans arm showed better success (86.6%) in treating and minimizing recurrence of vaginal infections and consequently symptoms associated with BV, owing to the large number of lactobacilli administered in the B. coagulans arm. Oral supplementation with probiotics can be an efficient approach for the treatment of BV. Oral therapy for a longer duration would be more effective despite intestinal passage, vaginal ascension, and growth of lactobacilli requiring a long time. Long-term administration could probably allow controlled release of lactobacilli for preventing recurrence of BV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) affirms that the optimal location for children to receive care for acute, nonemergency health concerns is the medical home. The medical home is characterized by the AAP as a care model that "must be accessible, family centered, continuous, comprehensive, coordinated, compassionate, and culturally effective." However, some children and families use acute care services outside the medical home because there is a perceived or real benefit related to accessibility, convenience, or cost of care. Examples of such acute care entities include urgent care facilities, retail-based clinics, and commercial telemedicine services. Children deserve high-quality, appropriate, and safe acute care services wherever they access the health care system, with timely and complete communication with the medical home, to ensure coordinated and continuous care. Treatment of children under established, new, and evolving practice arrangements in acute care entities should adhere to the core principles of continuity of care and communication, best practices within a defined scope of services, pediatric-trained staff, safe transitions of care, and continuous improvement. In support of the medical home, the AAP urges stakeholders, including payers, to avoid any incentives (eg, reduced copays) that encourage visits to external entities for acute issues as a preference over the medical home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]