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Zimbabwe has implemented universal antenatal care (ANC) policies since 1980 that have significantly contributed to improvements in ANC access and early childhood mortality rates. However, Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS), two of Zimbabwe's main sources of health data and evidence, often provide seemingly different estimates of ANC coverage and under-five mortality rates. This creates confusion that can result in disparate policies and practices, with potential negative impacts on mother and child health in Zimbabwe. We conducted a comparability analysis of multiple DHS and MICS datasets to enhance the understanding of point estimates, temporal changes, rural–urban differences and reliability of estimates of ANC coverage and neonatal, infant and under-five mortality rates (NMR, IMR and U5MR, separately) from 2009 to 2019 in Zimbabwe. Our two samples z-tests revealed that both DHS and MICS indicated significant increases in ANC coverage and declines in IMR and U5MR but only from 2009 to 2015. NMR neither increased nor declined from 2009 to 2019. Rural–urban differences were significant for ANC coverage (2009–15 only) but not for NMR, IMR and U5MR. We found that there is a need for more precise DHS and MICS estimates of urban ANC coverage and all estimates of NMR, IMR and U5MR, and that shorter recall periods provide more reliable estimates of ANC coverage in Zimbabwe. Our findings represent new interpretations and clearer insights into progress and gaps around ANC coverage and under-five mortality rates that can inform the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of policy and practice responses and further research in Zimbabwe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractMany current studies focus on the acceptability and utilization of biomedical antenatal care (ANC), neglecting indigenous African ways of providing ANC. Drawing on interviews with 30 health professionals, and consultations, focus groups, and storyboarding with 71 community-level key informants and adult caregivers, we critically examined how ANC is delivered and utilized in Mafararikwa in rural Zimbabwe. We found that families in Mafararikwa actively engage with and utilize ANC from traditional, faith-based, and biomedical health-care systems, usually concurrently, based on their quality-of-care perceptions and local sociocultural factors. Efforts to enhance ANC must consider families’ ANC preferences and promote collaboration between different ANC systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Current scientific research prioritizes sustainable and cost‐effective materials due to the depletion of traditional non‐renewable sources. Natural fiber reinforced composite materials emerge as promising solutions. However natural fibers being hydrophilic in nature are less compatible with hydrophobic epoxy matrix, to address this issue nano clay treatment of jute fibers have been done and epoxy composites were formed with their reinforcement. Through FT‐IR, thermal, mechanical, and morphological analyses, both treated and untreated composites are evaluated. The treated composites exhibit a notable 19% increase in activation energy (FWO and KAS methods) compared to untreated ones (217.5–259 KJ/mol), indicating improved thermal stability. Moreover, the treated composite demonstrates a significant 38% boost in tensile strength (30–41.4 MPa) and a 28% enhancement in flexural strength (50–64 MPa), highlighting the impact of alkali‐nano clay treatment in reinforcing structural integrity. These enhancements suggest the potential applicability of composites manufactured with alkali‐nano clay treated jute fibers (A/NC/J fiber) across various industries. This innovative approach not only bridges the gap in sustainable material development but also offers cost‐effective solutions for commercial utilization. Analyzed alkali‐nano clay treatment effects on jute fiber in epoxy composites. Studied activation energy (FWO, KAS) for untreated and treated composites. Treated composites show a 19% increase in activation energy: Thermal stability Significant improvements: 38% rise in tensile, 28% increase in flexural strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tri-organotin(IV) complex of composition [n-Bu3Sn(C6H5OCH2CONHO)] has been synthesized by using Bu3SnCl and potassium phenoxyacetohydroxamate ligand (KPAH) in pre-determined molar ratio of methanol and tetrahydrofuran. These are characterized by spectral techniques like FTIR, 1 H NMR and mass spectrometry. Studies on electrochemical processes are carried out using cyclic voltammetry. The in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities performed by using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method has revealed complex as biologically active. Molecular docking of the ligand and complex has been performed against the fungal receptor (PDB ID: 1UKC) to study the interactions between compound and receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burgeoning world's population has accelerated the injudicious use of agrochemicals to feed the society. Intensive agricultural practices depleted the environmental quality, resulted in climate change and posed major threat to food security. Biofertilizers are believed to have a long-lasting impact on maintaining sustainable agriculture and reducing the ill effects caused by chemical inputs. Use of biofertilizers can reduce the dependence on chemical fertilizers, and its helps to build up the soil fertility. Nutrient use efficiency of most of the applied chemicals is very low and normally occurs in insolubilized or complex forms. Prudent use of beneficial microorganism helps to increase the availability of nutrients, thereby enhances their growth, increases yield, ameliorate abiotic and biotic stress, and prevents attack from pathogens. Biofertilizers are economically viable, environment friendly, ecologically sound, biologically feasible and easily acceptable by small and marginal farmers, and these can be used to supplement chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyroid hormones play a vital role in regulating female reproductive function, and thyroid disorders are known to disrupt menstrual cycles. Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common issue among women seeking gynecological care, with various manifestations including menorrhagia and oligomenorrhea. The relationship between thyroid dysfunction and AUB, particularly hypothyroidism, has been established in clinical observations. Method: This casecontrol study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hypothyroidism in women experiencing irregular uterine bleeding. Women aged 19-45 with menstrual abnormalities, excluding organic pathologies, were recruited as cases, while agematched women with normal menstrual cycles served as controls. Thyroid function tests and menstrual pattern assessments were conducted, and data were analyzed using statistical methods. Result: Among the study participants, 22% of the case group had thyroid dysfunction compared to 8% in the control group, indicating a significant difference. Hypothyroidism was the most prevalent type of thyroid dysfunction, with menorrhagia being the most common menstrual pattern observed among women with hypothyroidism and dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Conclusion: The study establishes a notable association between thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, and dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Screening for thyroid function in women presenting with menstrual irregularities could aid in early detection and management of thyroid disorders, potentially improving reproductive health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preterm birth (PTB) remains a significant challenge in perinatal healthcare, contributing to a substantial portion of neonatal mortality and long-term disabilities. Various risk factors contribute to PTB, necessitating effective preventive measures. Progesterone supplementation has emerged as a promising intervention to reduce the risk of PTB, but the route of administration and its efficacy remain under investigation. Methods: This prospective, randomized comparative study enrolled 600 pregnant patients divided into two groups receiving either oral micronized progesterone (OMP) or vaginal micronized progesterone (VMP). Patients were followed up fortnightly for signs of preterm labor (PTL) and perinatal outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using unpaired t-tests, Fisher tests, and chi-square tests. Results: The study found significant differences in perinatal outcomes between the OMP and VMP groups. While both groups had similar rates of neonatal sepsis and hypoxemic ischemic encephalopathy, the VMP group demonstrated a higher proportion of asymptomatic births and a lower incidence of birth asphyxia compared to the OMP group. Additionally, the mean APGAR score at 1 minute was significantly lower in the OMP group, while birth weight distribution differed significantly between the two groups. Neonates in the VMP group had higher birth weights and lower rates of NICU admission, with a shorter NICU stay compared to the OMP group. Conclusion: Vaginal micronized progesterone appears to be more effective than oral micronized progesterone in preventing PTL and improving perinatal outcomes, including reducing neonatal morbidity and NICU admissions. These findings underscore the importance of route-specific progesterone administration in mitigating the risks associated with PTB. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the differential efficacy of progesterone administration routes and optimize preventive strategies for PTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the spectroscopic investigation of pyriproxyfen (PYR) has been carried out using density functional theory and experimental methods. The FT‐IR, 1H and 13C NMR spectra of PYR were recorded, interpreted and compared with the theoretical spectra. The polarizability and hyperpolarizabilities are responsible for higher lipophilicity which leads to the acute aquatic toxicity of the PYR molecule. The UV‐Visible spectra of PYR exhibited the presence of π→ ${\to }$ π* transition between the π‐orbitals of phenoxyphenyl and pyridyl ring. The standard entropy, heat capacity at constant volume and total energy have been computed to assess the toxicity of the compound. Molecular docking revealed the insecticidal potential of PYR owing to the presence of hydrogen bond interactions between PYR and mosquito juvenile hormone binding protein of aedes aegypti. The biophysical study predicts the possible DNA‐PYR interactions and carcinogenic properties of PYR molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issues of water availability and quality are major concerns under the climatic change scenarios. For sustainable agriculture, improved irrigation techniques can play a crucial role in the conservation of water and increase crop production. This article delineates the necessity of irrigation scheduling based on sound scientific principles. To effectively manage irrigation and crop water requirements, all irrigation scheduling methods should focus on a soil-plant-atmosphere approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, by employing a Barrow entropy and the standard holographic method at a cosmic framework, we formulate Barrow agegraphic dark energy (BADE), taking the Universe age as an IR cutoff scale in a flat FLRW Universe. For evaluation of statefinder parameters in (r , s) and (r , q) planes, trajectories have been plotted for BADE and discovered that for various values of Δ , the model exhibits both the behavior of Chaplygin gas and quintessence. Moreover, as a supplement to the statefinder study, we looked at the BADE model without interaction in the plane (ω D , ω D ′) , which might offer us a dynamic study using the energy density BADE parameter Ω D 0 = 0. 7 0 and H 0 = 6 7 , as per VI- Λ CDM observational data without interaction from Planck 2018 results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The choice of intraoperative fluid in neurosurgical patients is important as we need to maintain adequate cerebral perfusion and oxygenation and also avoid cerebral edema. Normal saline (NS) is commonly used in neurosurgeries, but it leads to hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis, which may result in coagulopathy. Balanced crystalloid with physiochemical composition akin to that of plasma has favorable effects on metabolic profile and may avoid the problems associated with NS. Against this background, the present study aimed to compare the effects of NS versus PlasmaLyte (PL) on coagulation profile in patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures. Methods This prospective, randomized, double-blinded study was conducted in 100 adult patients scheduled to undergo various neurosurgical procedures. Patients were randomly allocated in two groups of 50 each to receive either NS or PL intraoperatively and postoperatively till 4 hours after the surgery. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, coagulation profile (PT, PTT, and INR), serum chloride, pH, blood urea, and serum creatinine were measured prior to induction (baseline) and 4 hours after completion of surgery. Results Demographic characteristics were statistically similar between the two groups. Coagulation profile parameters were comparable between the two groups at baseline as well as 4 hours after surgery. pH was significantly lower in the NS group as compared to the PL group at 4 hours after surgery. Postoperatively blood urea, serum creatinine, and serum chloride levels were significantly raised in the NS group as compared to the PL group. Hemoglobin and hematocrit values were similar between the two groups. Conclusion Coagulation profile parameters were normal and statistically similar with intraoperative infusion of NS versus PL in patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures. However, use of PL was associated with a better acid–base and renal profile in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mycobacterium wis an immunomodulatorthat evokes antigen-specific cell-mediated immunity and its use has been evaluated in patients with sepsis, where it resulted in improved outcome. Methods: We collected data in ten adult patientswith suspected gramnegative sepsis admitted inthe intensive care unit. Injection Mw 0.3 ml was administered intradermal per day for three consecutive days alongwith continuation of standard care. Results: We observed clinical improvement and a significant decrease in TLC and SOFA Score on day 7 after Mw administration. Also, Mw was not associated with any local or systemic adverse effects. Conclusion: The use of Mw was safe and effective in patients with sepsis, though larger randomized trials are required to establish its role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interscalene nerve blocks are commonly performed for surgeries of the upper limb. Assessment methods for evaluation of blocks are conventional and subjective. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate perfusion index (PI) as an objective indicator for assessing successful ultrasound guided interscalene block. Materials and Methods: This prospective, observational study included adult patients undergoing upper limb surgery (humerus and shoulder) under USG guided interscalene nerve block. PI was recorded at baseline (before LA administration), at every 2 min till 10 min, and then every 5 min till 30 min after the block in both the arms. The PI values were compared between the blocked and unblocked arms at all observed time points. PI ratio was calculated as the ratio between PI at 15 min after block and the baseline PI. Results: The PI increased significantly in the blocked limb after local anesthetic injection and there was a statistically significant difference in PI values between the blocked and unblocked arms at all-time points. Both PI and PI ratio at 15 min after injection showed a sensitivity and specificity of 100% for block success at cutoff values of 3.2 and 2.04, respectively. Conclusion: PI maybe used as an objective indicator of successful interscalene nerve block. PI >3.2 and PI ratio >2.04 at 15 min are accurate predictors for block success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • X-PEEM and Raman mapping are used to probe interfaces in Ni-Ag-MoS 2 heterostructure. • Higher H 2 yield of Ni-Ag-MoS 2 evidence successful bonding of Ni, Ag and MoS 2. • Downshift due to charge injection and upshift due to strain is noted in phonons. • Ag intercalated MoS 2 , its non-uniform growth, and intimate contact with MoS 2 is noted. • Electronic coupling and strain can tune the electromechanical properties of MoS 2. Despite the boom in catalytic response via constructing interfaces, understanding interfaces' interaction in heterostructures is still a paradox. In this work, the interaction of Ni with MoS 2 in Ni-Ag-MoS 2 heterostructure are unveiled through synchrotron X-PEEM and what's more, the missing interaction mechanism at the Ag-MoS 2 interface is probed via Raman mapping. The observed competition between the downshift of the E 2g 1 and A 1g modes due to charge carrier injection and the upshift of the E 2g 1 and A 1g modes due to compressive strain during reverse laser power experiment is assigned to the non-uniform growth of Ag nanoparticles, their intimate contact with MoS 2 , and Ag intercalated layered MoS 2. The substantial improvement of the H 2 yield of the Ni-Ag-MoS 2 (∼55 μmol h−1 g−1) over the pristine MoS 2 and the binary Ag-MoS 2 evidence successful bonding of Ni, Ag and MoS 2. This study highlights the importance of considering both electronic coupling and strain to optically tune electromechanical properties of MoS 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review paper provides a perspective on residue generation, reasons for on-site burning of residue, its ill effects on soil properties, environment, soil biota, challenges faced by the farmers in managing a huge quantity of residue and various schemes, policies, and punishments undertaken by the government to curb the problem of on-site residue burning. Several studies show that crop residue burning in the field has a negative impact on soil organic carbon, soil fertility, soil microbes, and environment and also hinders the long-term sustainability of crop production. Crop residue is a good source of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur; on burning, these cause the loss of nutrients as CO, CO2, NO, particulate matter, and smoke, which are lost into the atmosphere, thereby creating the problem of air pollution and global warming, which will also pose threat to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of β-alanine substituted sulfonamide compounds (6a-6h) as juvenile hormone analogs (JHAs) has been synthesized. The structures of the synthesized compounds have been confirmed by FT-IR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and ESI-MS (high-resolution mass spectra [HRMS]) techniques. Biological screening of the synthesized analogs has been performed on the fifth larval instar of Galleria mellonella. JH activity of the compounds (6a-6h) has been tested at various concentrations and compared with commercially used JHAs pyriproxyfen (1), fenoxycarb (2). Compound N-methyl-N-phenyl-3-(p-tolylsulfonylamino)propanamide (6d) exhibited better activity among all the tested compounds with LC50 and LC90 values of 0.16 and 0.52 mg/mL, respectively. To understand the structure–activity relationship (SAR), quantum chemical descriptors have been calculated using density functional theory (DFT) method. Toxicity prediction has been performed using the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) tool. The compounds are proposed to be nontoxic, eco-friendly and biodegradable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a natural phenomenon that is irrevocable. The older adult population is increasing rapidly in India, projected to increase from 6% to nearly 20% in 2050. Clinical conditions found among the elderly that do not fit into discrete disease categories and result from accumulated impairments in multiple systems are called geriatric syndromes. The authors have done a literature search of research papers from indexed and nonindexed journals e databases, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus, Science Direct, Research Gate, and Cochrane. The search terms included were geriatric population, geriatric syndrome, geriatric care, elderly health problem, and comprehensive approach. The management of geriatric syndromes is a challenge to modern geriatric clinical practice. The comprehensive assessment of older adults using standardized tools must be carried out in any healthcare facility to ensure that their needs are met through care and treatment. Evidence‑based standards of practice need to be implemented to provide nursing care for dealing with the therapeutic challenges of various geriatric syndromes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Mc Laughlin proved several new results on vanishing coefficients in certain q-product expansions by classifying the results into various families. Also, Mc Laughlin stated some families of results with negative signs for arithmetic progressions modulo 5, modulo 7 and modulo 11. We have already proved the families of results modulo 7. In this paper, we prove results for arithmetic progressions modulo 5 and 11. For instance, we prove that if t ∈ { 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 } and the sequence { A (n) } is defined by ∑ n = - 9 ∞ A (n) q n : = - q 2 t , - q 5 - 2 t ; q 5 ∞ 3 q 5 - t , q 5 + t ; q 10 ∞ , then A (5 n + 3 t 2 + 3 t) = 0 for all n and if t is even, then A (5 n + 2 t 2 + 3 t) = 0 for all n. Also, if t ∈ { 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 } and the sequence { F (n) } is defined by ∑ n = - 81 ∞ F (n) q n : = q 3 t , q 11 - 3 t ; q 11 ∞ 3 - q 11 - t , - q 11 + t ; q 22 ∞ , then F (11 n + 8 t 2 + 10 t) = 0 for all n. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jordan’s Principle is a legal requirement for the Canadian government to address gaps in services for First Nations children and ensure timely services that meet their needs and best interests. This article synthesizes and discusses some of the key research findings described in a report on the implementation of Jordan’s Principle in Manitoba, produced by a team of academic researchers in partnership with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. Findings provide insights into a relational approach to the implementation of Jordan’s Principle and inter-related structural factors that constrain the efficacy of this approach. Findings reinforce the need for First Nations–led processes and Jordan’s Principle policies that fully fund and support First Nations in addressing high caseloads and growing waiting lists, complex responsibilities, stress and staff turnover, administrative burden, and inadequate physical and digital infrastructure. Sufficient resources for First Nations capacity enhancement initiatives and regional coordination and support are also identified priorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of natural fibers in polymer biocomposites is on the rise owing to their ready availability, lightweight nature, excellent mechanical strength and eco-friendly characteristics. In this study, a solution casting method was performed to synthesize biodegradable composite films based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with 10 to 30% polyethylene glycol loading (PEG, matrix) and 10% untreated or alkali treated coir fiber (reinforcement). SEM, FTIR, XRD, mechanical properties and contact angle studies were used to examine how the alkaline treatment affected the structure and characteristics of the synthesized films. Alkali treatment on coir fiber removed hemicellulose, lignin, and pectin and significantly improved its crystalline nature from 38.3% to 69.5%, confirmed by the XRD test. Adding 10 wt% polyethylene glycol with alkali treated coir fibers attained the highest tensile strength which was 38.6% greater than untreated coir fiber and demonstrated the best reinforcing effects of treated coir on these biocomposite films. According to our research, coir fiber’s alkali treatment considerably enhances its ability to interact with polyvinyl alcohol polymer and polyethylene glycol polymer blends, making it possible to fabricate composite films with improved mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Skull pin insertion in patients undergoing craniotomies elicits hemodynamic and neuroendocrine stress response that may be deleterious to the patient. Various drugs and techniques have been documented in literature to abate this stress response. Against this background, we aimed to compare the efficacy of intravenous dexmedetomidine and local infiltration of ropivacaine for attenuation of stress response to pin insertion in craniotomies. Methods Eighty-eight adult patients undergoing craniotomy under general anesthesia from March 2019 to April 2020 requiring application of head holder were randomized into two equal groups. After intubation, 0.75 µg kg −1 of dexmedetomidine over 10 minutes through infusion was given in group D, while local infiltration at pin sites was done with 0.5% ropivacaine, 2 mL at each site in group R. Hemodynamic parameters and levels of serum cortisol, prolactin, and blood glucose were measured before and after pin insertion. Unpaired t -test for continuous variables and Mann–Whitney U test was used for nonnormally distributed variables. Results Heart rate was statistically similar between the two groups at all the observed time points. The difference in mean arterial pressure values between the two groups was found to be statistically significant only from 10 to 20 minutes after pin insertion being statistically similar at rest of the time points. Levels of serum glucose, cortisol, and prolactin values 30 minutes after pin insertion were statistically similar between both groups. Conclusion We concluded that both interventions are equally efficacious in attenuation of hemodynamic and stress response to head holder application in patients undergoing craniotomies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS; free radical form O2•−, superoxide radical; OH•, hydroxyl radical; ROO•, peroxyl; RO•, alkoxyl and non‐radical form 1O2, singlet oxygen; H2O2, hydrogen peroxide) are inevitable companions of aerobic life with crucial role in gut health. But, overwhelming production of ROS can cause serious damage to biomolecules. In this review, we have discussed several sources of ROS production that can be beneficial or dangerous to the human gut. Micro‐organisms, organelles and enzymes play crucial role in ROS generation, where NOX1 is the main intestinal enzyme, which produce ROS in the intestine epithelial cells. Previous studies have reported that probiotics play significant role in gut homeostasis by checking the ROS generation, maintaining the antioxidant level, immune system and barrier protection. With current knowledge, we have critically analysed the available literature and presented the outcome in the form of bubble maps to suggest that the probiotics help in controlling the ROS‐specific intestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colon cancer. Finally, it has been concluded that rebooting of the gut microbiota with probiotics, postbiotics or faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) can have crucial implications in the structuring of gut communities for the personalized management of the gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine anaplasmosis is an infectious, non-contagious, tick-borne disease of domestic as well as wild ruminants caused by obligate intraerythrocytic parasites of family Anaplasmataceae and genus Anaplasma. Fifty blood samples were collected from crossbred cattle in a dairy farm with a history of a drastic decrease in milk yield and fever in a few animals. Six (12%) samples showed characteristic Anaplasma organisms when stained with Giemsa's stain, whereas 19 (38%) samples were found positive for A. marginale by PCR assay. Low hemoglobin and total erythrocyte count were observed, whereas an increase in total leucocyte count was noted in Anaplasma affected animals compared to healthy animals at the same farm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic diseases are one of the major problems in livestock animals, and also protozoan diseases have a great importance in parasitic disease in ruminants. Different intestinal protozoa are responsible for causing diarrhoea and even death in neonatal and young bovine calves. Buxtonella sulcata (B. sulcata) is an opportunistic ciliate protozoan that inhabits colon of bovines. B. sulcata infection in ruminants is associated with diarrhoea although there is controversy regarding its pathogenic nature. The protozoa have two stages: trophozoite and cyst stages. The trophozoites colonize and invade the colonic wall and cause diarrhoea. The protozoan multiplies fast in neonates and immune compromised calves prompting clinical disease with diarrhoea, debility and death, in untreated animals. It is often misdiagnosed as Balantidium coli, a ciliate protozoan found in caecum and colon of pigs, humans and nonhuman primates. The objective of the current study was to assess the occurrence of B. sulcata in bovines in different districts of Haryana. The data of faecal sample testing from five Disease Investigation Labs Ambala, Bhiwani, Mahendergarh, Rohtak and Sirsa during period July 2019-June 2020 was compiled and analysed. A total of 2050 faecal samples with the history of digestive disturbances/disorders from cattle (589) and buffaloes (1461) were tested. Of these, 338 (16.5%) animals were found positive for B. sulcata. The per cent positivity in cattle and buffaloes was estimated, respectively as 12.9% (76/589) and 17.9% (262/1461). The multifactorial nature of digestive disturbances/disorders makes it tough to effectively control but understanding the etiologic agents is must to propose intervention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main goals of second professional MBBS pathology teaching are to provide a framework for the description of disease and to provide students with knowledge of the functional and structural changes in disease in order that clinical signs and symptoms are often understood and interpreted. Aims: It was a cross-sectional, descriptive study which aimed to find out the importance of pathology subject in MBBS curriculum as well as to assess the students perception regarding subject understanding, teaching methodology, and assessment criteria. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and sixteen students of 2nd MBBS who had already completed 1st year and were about to appear in the university examination in the year 2020 were included. An extensive questionnaire was prepared regarding 2nd year pathology teaching. The feedback from the students was obtained and analyzed the SPSS software version 17.0. Results: 30.05% students found pathology subject as an interesting, 46.75% found it to be lengthy, whereas remaining (13.80%) found it as not only interesting but also lengthy as well and 9.4% found it boring and difficult. 70.8% students were able to apply the knowledge gained in the 1st year while studying pathology. 76.7% students responded that knowledge gained in pathology helped them in clinical postings. 53.2% students opined that combination of teaching methods helped them for better understanding of subject. Written and viva voce examination was helpful for 74.14% and 79.62%, respectively, to evaluate them. Conclusion: Our study has emphasized the importance of pathology as a subject for understanding the clinical subject. As competency-based curriculum is starting from 2019 batch and onward, this elaborative study can act as a baseline to get access to the effectiveness of new curriculum in coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main goals of teaching in second professional MBBS Pathology practical classes is to provide a framework for the description of the disease and to provide students with knowledge of the functional and structural changes in order that disease pathogenesis is well understood. Aims: It was a cross sectional descriptive study which aimed to find out the importance of teaching in pathology practical classes in the MBBS curriculum as well as to assess the student's perception regarding subject understanding. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and sixteen students of 2nd MBBS who had already completed 1st year and were about to appear in university examination in the year 2020 were included. An extensive questionnaire was prepared regarding 2nd-year pathology teaching. The feedback from students was obtained and analyzed. Results: About 67.5% of students found pathology practical classes more interesting than theory classes. 88% of students were confident to interpret CBC reports. Almost half (50%) did not visit the histopathology section while; only 12% and 38% of students were confident to collect blood and urine samples of the patient. About 83% and 93% of students found gross specimen and clinical charts useful in teaching. 63.88% of students suggested to increase the number of practical hours in pathology. Conclusion: Our study has emphasized the importance of teaching in pathology practical classes as important for better understanding in clinical subjects. As the competency-based curriculum is being starting from 2019 batch and onward, this elaborative study, especially in the practical aspects in the subject Pathology can act as a baseline to get access to the effectiveness of the new curriculum in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the maturation of display devices using liquid crystal (LC) materials, likely, in normally transparent reverse mode polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) devices' performance and development have been assessed in the present review. The fabrication techniques and various normally transparent reverse mode devices such as polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), polymer network liquid crystal, polymer-stabilized liquid crystal, anisotropic LC gels and nematic emulsions are discussed. Further, the simultaneous effects of external stimuli such as external fields, optical effects, temperature and composition of constituents of PDLC mixture are reported for analysing the technological advancement of normally transparent reverse mode LC devices. The performance parameters discussed in this review are texture formation, transmission, response time, contrast ratio, viewing angle, threshold and operating voltages. The interdependency of these parameters on overall performance of the device is also discussed and analysed. Thus, new areas of application in the realms of 2D/3D and multi-plane display devices, normally transparent shutters/smart windows, augmented/virtual reality devices are interesting technological advancements in basic and applied research using these novel anisotropic LC and polymeric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dahi and Misti dahi are traditional Indian fermented milk products. The present study was aimed to evaluate the technological attributes of selected six Lactococcus lactis cultures namely NCDC 193, 125, 128, 94, 97 and 314 for preparation of Dahi and Misti dahi. Methods: Six Lactococcus lactis were collected and tested for acidification profile as well as growth rate was also determined in milk with (15%) and without sucrose. Their flavor producing ability, proteolytic ability by OPA method and antimicrobial activity against four spoilage causing microorganisms (Escherichia coli NCDC 134, Staphylococcus aureus NCDC 109, Micrococcus luteus NCDC 131 and Pseudomonas fluorescenes NCDC 316) were evaluated. Result: All the six cultures were able to grow and produce acidity in milk containing 15% sucrose and similar acidification profile as well as growth rate (K) were found in milk without sucrose. Cultures NCDC 193, 128 and 125 were found to produce flavoring compound (diacetyl). Proteolytic activity of the selected cultures ranged between 0.17 to 0.41 mg/mL of Leucine. Among six cultures three Lactococcus lactis cultures NCDC 314, 94 and 97 have shown zone of inhibition against all four test organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the framework of quantum gravity and modified entropy-area formalism, the Tsallis holographic dark energy is an effort to peep into a mysterious content of the Universe, the dark energy, to analyze its nature. The Tsallis parameter δ provides the main characteristic of the Tsallis holographic dark energy. Opting the value of Tsallis parameter δ ≤ 2 , a quintessence scalar field description of the Tsallis holographic dark energy model can be obtained. In this work, we present this quintessential explanation of the Tsallis holographic dark energy with δ ≤ 2 and reconstruct the dynamics of the scalar field and the potential of quintessence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Short-term postoperative voiding dysfunction (POVD) is common in women undergoing surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. It results in increased catheter burden for patients and health services, and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), thereby escalating the overall cost of treatment. Our aim was to determine the risk factors for voiding dysfunction following surgery for POP in our unit.Study Design: A retrospective case-control study conducted in a tertiary center in the U.K. The study cohort included all women who underwent surgery for pelvic organ prolapse between March 2017 and March 2019 and had a failed trial without catheter (TWOC). The control group comprised consecutive women on the surgical database who passed TWOC. Relevant data, including demographic details, past medical history, intraoperative and postoperative factors, were collected. We used the Chi-square test to calculate the statistical significance and multiple logistic regression analysis using SPSS software to identify the risk factors.Results: 286 surgeries were performed. After exclusion, 43 patients were included in each group. Baseline demographics were similar in both groups. The incidence of POVD was 15%, and none of our patients had long-term voiding problems. Logistic regression analysis identified five risk factors - advanced pelvic organ prolapse (OR = 2.654, p = 0.029), comorbidities (OR = 4.583, p = 0.019), preoperative anticholinergics and/or antidepressants (OR = 4.440, p = 0.004), sacrospinous hysteropexy/colpopexy (OR = 2.613, p = 0.041) and postoperative opioid use (OR = 3.529, p = 0.004).Conclusion: We identified five risk factors to recognize the women who would benefit from advanced counseling and management plan following surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is recommended for diagnosing bronchial neoplasms and evaluating mediastinal lymph nodes. However, it may not be possible to subtype or definitely categorize many bronchial neoplasms on FNAC smears alone. Obtaining adequate diagnostic material is often a problem. In such cases, cell blocks made from FNAC material may serve as a useful adjunct. Aim: To study the value and limitations of cell blocks in adding diagnostic information to EBUS guided FNAC smears. Material and Methods: One hundred and eighty-five cases of EBUS guided FNAC having concomitant cell blocks were reviewed. The cases were evaluated for the extent of adequacy, of definite benign/malignant categorization and of definite subtyping in malignant tumors in these cases. The proportion of cases in which cell blocks added information to FNAC smears alone for the above parameters were calculated. Results: Cell blocks provided additional information in 31 out of 185 cases. Cell blocks were necessary for subtyping 24/59 malignant tumors, definite categorization into benign and malignant in 10/140 adequate samples, and increasing adequacy in 6/185 total samples. A total of 45 samples were inadequate in spite of adding information from cell blocks to smears. Conclusion: Cell blocks added clinically significant information to EBUS guided FNAC and should be used routinely. To make it more useful, alternative methods of cell block preparation (including proprietary methods) may be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the authors detail various articles published in the journal concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, institutional racism, and family poverty.

A 3-dimensional ordered cubic mesoporous Ag–V2O5 loaded graphitic carbon nitride (mpg-CN) hybrid was fabricated via a facile nanocasting technique using mesoporous silica as the hard template and its sensing response towards xylene gas was investigated in detail. The physicochemical properties of the as prepared nanocomposite were estimated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and BET surface area analysis. The hybridized Ag–V2O5/mpg-CN nanocomposite prepared by template inversion of KIT-6 silica showed temperature reliant response towards the detection of common VOCs (xylene, formaldehyde, 2-propanol and benzene) usually found in our indoor environment. Sensing response values of 4.9 for 50 ppm and 12.7 for 500 ppm were reported for xylene gas at an operating temperature of 40 °C. Besides, average response/recovery times of 6.1/4.1 s (xylene), 7.7/5.1 s (formaldehyde), 8.7/6.6 s (2-propanol) and 9.5/8.4 s (benzene) were recorded for Ag–V2O5/mpg-CN, which demonstrated the potential of utilizing the as-prepared sensor in commercial real-time sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is provided to articles in the special issue on the themes of the COVID-19 pandemic, family poverty and racism.

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are widely explored in the context of inorganic thermoelectrics, but not yet in organic thermoelectrics. Here, the impact of doping gradients on the thermoelectric properties of a chemically doped conjugated polymer is studied. The in‐plane drift of counterions in moderate electric fields is used to create lateral doping gradients in films composed of a polythiophene with oligoether side chains, doped with 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ). Raman microscopy reveals that a bias voltage of as little as 5 V across a 50 µm wide channel is sufficient to trigger counterion drift, resulting in doping gradients. The effective electrical conductivity of the graded channel decreases with bias voltage, while an overall increase in Seebeck coefficient is observed, yielding an up to eight‐fold enhancement in power factor. Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations of graded films explain the increase in power factor in terms of a roll‐off of the Seebeck coefficient at high electrical conductivities in combination with a mobility decay due to increased Coulomb scattering at high dopant concentrations. Therefore, the FGM concept is found to be a way to improve the thermoelectric performance of not yet optimally doped organic semiconductors, which may ease the screening of new materials as well as the fabrication of devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utility itemset mining, which finds the item sets based on utility factors, has established itself as an essential form of data mining. The utility is defined in terms of quantity and some interest factor. Various methods have been developed so far by the researchers to mine these itemsets but most of them are not scalable. In the present times, a scalable approach is required that can fulfill the budding needs of data mining. A Spark based novel technique has been recommended in this research paper for mining the data in a distributed way, called as Absolute High Utility Itemset Mining (AHUIM). The technique is suitable for small as well as large datasets. The performance of the technique is being measured for various parameters such as speed, scalability, and accuracy etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utility Itemset Mining (UIM) is a fundamental technique to find out various itemsets with interestingness measures in addition to their quantity. It helps in finding valuable items that cannot be tracked with frequent itemset mining. There are many techniques to mine the itemsets based on their utilities, but the need of the hour is to mine them from larger datasets. This paper presents a brief overview of various approaches for utility mining, which mine using the parallel framework to enhance the pace of computation. The paper is concluded with a discussion on various challenges and openings in the field of parallel mining and provides a way for further development of the prevailing methodologies of big data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we explore the Tsallis holographic dark energy (THDE) model with IR cutoff as Granda–Oliveros horizon describing the Universe experiencing an accelerating expansion phase in the framework of flat Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) Universe. The Universe evolution from earlier decelerated to the current accelerated phase is exhibited by the deceleration parameter acquired in the THDE model. By the value of the Tsallis parameter δ , the equation of state (EoS) parameter for the THDE model represents the rich behavior of the Cosmos as, the quintessence era ( ω T ≥ − 1), crossing the phantom divide line and phantom era ( ω T < − 1). The squared sound speed v s 2 also suggests that the THDE model is classically stable at present. Also, the correspondence with the quintessence and phantom scalar field for the THDE model is analyzed to describe the accelerated expansion of the Universe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This quantitative study explored social media usage among college students attending urban public universities in the Southeastern U.S., focusing on their engagement with race-related issues online and examining whether this engagement was related to moral identity. Multiple regression analyses indicated that frequent social media use and race were significant predictors of online responses to race-related issues (when compared to age, gender, and religiosity) and that, among White students, there was a strong positive association between high symbolization of moral identity and engagement with race-related issues online. This study is meant to help educators recognize ways in which students' moral identity and social media use may be facilitating or impeding race relations online and to present specific actions they can take to address racism on social media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is hypothesized that increased intraabdominal pressure (IAP) may be a cause of preeclampsia. There is, however, a paucity of clinical data regarding IAP in preeclamptics. We evaluated and compared the IAP and its effects on organ functions, in normotensive and preeclamptic patients.Material and Methods: Previously healthy non-laboring patients with a singleton pregnancy scheduled for elective cesarean section under subarachnoid block were enrolled (preeclamptic and normotensive; n = 29 each). IAP was measured using an indwelling Foley catheter, and compared in both cohorts at four predefined time points: just before subarachnoid block, immediately after the onset of sensory block to T6 dermatomal level, just after surgery, and 2 hours later. In addition, the presence of organ dysfunction for respiratory, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, hematopoietic and central nervous systems were evaluated for association with IAP.Results: Although age, body mass index, gravidity, parity, serum bilirubin, serum creatinine, PaO2 /FiO2 ratio and Glasgow coma score of the preeclamptic and normotensive patients were similar, the mean blood pressure was significantly higher (P < 0.001), the period of gestation less (P = 0.003) and the platelet count lower (P = 0.020) in the former. The IAP was significantly higher in the preeclamptic group at all four time points: respectively, 15.1 (1.0) vs 14.2 (0.9) mm Hg (P = 0.002); 14.9 (0.9) vs 14.1 (1.0) mm Hg (P = 0.002), 10.4 (1.0) vs 9.5 (1.3) mm Hg (P = 0.008) and 10.2 (0.8) vs 9.2 (1.2) mm Hg (P = 0.001). There was no correlation between the IAP and various organ dysfunctions.Conclusions: Preeclampsia is associated with a significantly higher IAP in patients undergoing a cesarean section. The clinical relevance of this finding needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal based biologically active compounds have been synthesized by microwave assisted template condensation method and characterized by spectro-analytical techniques like molar conductance, UV-visible, infrared and mass spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The metal is arranged in octahedral geometry surrounded by tetradentate ligand framework. The binding affinity of all the metal complexes has been evaluated theoretically by molecular docking studies against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and tyrosine kinase (TRK) receptor molecules which are further verified by in vitro anticancer activity. Complex [Cr(C16H11N4O2)(NO3)2]NO3 have showed potent in vitro cytotoxicity (IC50 value 39.5μM) against SCC4 cancer cell line. Antioxidant study has also performed by DPPH assay and significant results are found. [Fe(C16H11N4O2)(OAc)2]OAc and [Cr(C16H11N4O2) (OAc)2]OAc are most effective antioxidants with 78.7% and 76.8% free radical scavenging activity, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urethral caruncle is a benign fleshy outgrowth at the urethral meatus that occurs mainly at posterior lip of urethra and is most commonly seen in postmenopausal women. They are typically asymptomatic and are mostly reported as incidental findings during pelvic examination. When symptomatic, they commonly present with bleeding, haematuria, pain, dysuria or a lump. Despite being a recognised condition in medicine for more than two centuries, urethral caruncle is still a very poorly understood condition and the current literature is largely deficient to guide the general practitioners and gynaecologists in the appropriate management of the condition. The aim of the paper is to systematically review the current literature on the management options available for urethral caruncle and highlight the need for high quality research to develop better management strategies for this condition. We searched the following electronic databases from 1946 until January 2019: MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE and WEB OF SCIENCE. The search identified a total of 41 articles on the treatment of the condition in pre- and postmenopausal women, out of which only eight studies were relevant for our review. Most of these studies were retrospective case series or small cohort studies, mainly on the surgical treatment of the lesion. We found no systematic studies in the current literature on the conservative management of urethral caruncles. The most common method of surgical treatment encountered in these studies was simple excision. In conclusion, the current literature is largely deficient to guide us in the appropriate management of this common condition and there is need for more robust studies to develop evidence based management of this distressing condition that can guide the general practitioners and gynaecologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the role of substrate plasminogen kringles in its differential catalytic processing by the streptokinase - human plasmin (SK-HPN) activator enzyme, Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) model was generated between the donor labeled activator enzyme and the acceptor labeled substrate plasminogen (for both kringle rich Lys plasminogen - LysPG, and kringle less microplasminogen - mPG as substrates). Different steps of plasminogen to plasmin catalysis i.e. substrate plasminogen docking to scissile peptide bond cleavage, chemical transformation into proteolytically active product, and the decoupling of the nascent product from the SK-HPN activator enzyme were segregated selectively using (1) FRET signal as a proximity sensor to score the interactions between the substrate and the activator during the cycle of catalysis, (2) active site titration studies and (3) kinetics of peptide bond cleavage in the substrate. Remarkably, active site titration studies and the kinetics of peptide bond cleavage have shown that post docking chemical transformation of the substrate into the product is independent of kringles adjacent to the catalytic domain (CD). Stopped-flow based rapid mixing experiments for kringle rich and kringle less substrate plasminogen derivatives under substrate saturating and single cycle turnover conditions have shown that the presence of kringle domains adjacent to the CD in the macromolecular substrate contributes by selectively speeding up the final step, namely the product release/expulsion step of catalysis by the streptokinase-plasmin (ogen) activator enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]