Emergence of Long-Range Angular Correlations in Low-Multiplicity Proton-Proton Collisions

This Letter presents the measurement of near-side associated per-trigger yields, denoted ridge yields, from the analysis of angular correlations of charged hadrons in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV. Long-range ridge yields are extracted for pairs of charged particles with a pseudorapidity difference of 1.4<|Δη|<1.8 and a transverse momentum of 1 Collapse

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First Measurement of the |t| Dependence of Incoherent J/ψ Photonuclear Production

The first measurement of the cross section for incoherent photonuclear production of J/ψ vector mesons as a function of the Mandelstam |t| variable is presented. The measurement was carried out with the ALICE detector at midrapidity, |y|<0.8, using ultraperipheral collisions of Pb nuclei at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair of sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. This rapidity interval corresponds to a Bjorken-x range (0.3-1.4)×10^{-3}. Cross sections are given in five |t| intervals in the range 0.04<|t|<1  GeV^{2} and compared to the predictions by different models. Models that ignore quantum fluctuations of the gluon density in the colliding hadron predict a |t| dependence of the cross section much steeper than in data. The inclusion of such fluctuations in the same models provides a better description of the data.

ψ(2S) Suppression in Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

The production of the ψ(2S) charmonium state was measured with ALICE in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, in the dimuon decay channel. A significant signal was observed for the first time at LHC energies down to zero transverse momentum, at forward rapidity (2.5 Collapse

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In silico evaluation of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine analogs as inhibitors of nsp14-viral cap N7 methyltranferase and PLpro of SARS-CoV-2: synthesis, molecular docking, physicochemical data, ADMET and molecular dynamics simulations studies

A series of S-adenosyl-L-homosysteine (SAH) analogs, with modification in the base and sugar moiety, have been designed, synthesized and screened as nsp14 and PLpro inhibitors of severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus (SARS-CoV-2). The outcomes of ADMET (Adsorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) studies demonstrated that the physicochemical properties of all analogs were permissible for development of these SAH analogs as antiviral agents. All molecules were screened against different SARS-CoV-2 targets using molecular docking. The docking results revealed that the SAH analogs interacted well in the active site of nsp14 protein having H-bond interactions with the amino acid residues Arg289, Val290, Asn388, Arg400, Phe401 and π-alkyl interactions with Arg289, Val290 and Phe426 of Nsp14-MTase site. These analogs also formed stable H-bonds with Leu163, Asp165, Arg167, Ser246, Gln270, Tyr274 and Asp303 residues of PLpro proteins and found to be quite stable complexes therefore behaved as probable nsp14 and PLpro inhibitors. Interestingly, analog 3 showed significant in silico activity against the nsp14 N7 methyltransferase of SARS-CoV-2. The molecular dynamics (MD) and post-MD results of analog 3 unambiguously established the higher stability of the nsp14 (N7 MTase):3 complex and also indicated its behavior as probable nsp14 inhibitor like the reference sinefungin. The docking and MD simulations studies also suggested that sinefungin did act as SARS-CoV-2 PLpro inhibitor as well. This study's findings not only underscore the efficacy of the designed SAH analogs as potent inhibitors against crucial SARS-CoV-2 proteins but also pinpoint analog 3 as a particularly promising candidate. All the study provides valuable insights, paving the way for potential advancements in antiviral drug development against SARS-CoV-2.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Measurements of Groomed-Jet Substructure of Charm Jets Tagged by D^{0} Mesons in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

Understanding the role of parton mass and Casimir color factors in the quantum chromodynamics parton shower represents an important step in characterizing the emission properties of heavy quarks. Recent experimental advances in jet substructure techniques have provided the opportunity to isolate and characterize gluon emissions from heavy quarks. In this Letter, the first direct experimental constraint on the charm-quark splitting function is presented, obtained via the measurement of the groomed shared momentum fraction of the first splitting in charm jets, tagged by a reconstructed D^{0} meson. The measurement is made in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV, in the low jet transverse-momentum interval of 15≤p_{T}^{jet ch}<30  GeV/c where the emission properties are sensitive to parton mass effects. In addition, the opening angle of the first perturbative emission of the charm quark, as well as the number of perturbative emissions it undergoes, is reported. Comparisons to measurements of an inclusive-jet sample show a steeper splitting function for charm quarks compared with gluons and light quarks. Charm quarks also undergo fewer perturbative emissions in the parton shower, with a reduced probability of large-angle emissions.

Measurement of the Lifetime and Λ Separation Energy of _{Λ}^{3}H

The most precise measurements to date of the _{Λ}^{3}H lifetime τ and Λ separation energy B_{Λ} are obtained using the data sample of Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV collected by ALICE at the LHC. The _{Λ}^{3}H is reconstructed via its charged two-body mesonic decay channel (_{Λ}^{3}H→^{3}He+π^{-} and the charge-conjugate process). The measured values τ=[253±11(stat)±6(syst)]  ps and B_{Λ}=[102±63(stat)±67(syst)]  keV are compatible with predictions from effective field theories and confirm that the _{Λ}^{3}H structure is consistent with a weakly bound system.

Measurement of the J/ψ Polarization with Respect to the Event Plane in Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

We study the polarization of inclusive J/ψ produced in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV at the LHC in the dimuon channel, via the measurement of the angular distribution of its decay products. We perform the study in the rapidity region 2.5 Collapse

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First Measurement of Antideuteron Number Fluctuations at Energies Available at the Large Hadron Collider

The first measurement of event-by-event antideuteron number fluctuations in high energy heavy-ion collisions is presented. The measurements are carried out at midrapidity (|η|<0.8) as a function of collision centrality in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV using the ALICE detector. A significant negative correlation between the produced antiprotons and antideuterons is observed in all collision centralities. The results are compared with a state-of-the-art coalescence calculation. While it describes the ratio of higher order cumulants of the antideuteron multiplicity distribution, it fails to describe quantitatively the magnitude of the correlation between antiproton and antideuteron production. On the other hand, thermal-statistical model calculations describe all the measured observables within uncertainties only for correlation volumes that are different with respect to those describing proton yields and a similar measurement of net-proton number fluctuations.

Enhanced Deuteron Coalescence Probability in Jets

The transverse-momentum (p_{T}) spectra and coalescence parameters B_{2} of (anti)deuterons are measured in p-p collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV for the first time in and out of jets. In this measurement, the direction of the leading particle with the highest p_{T} in the event (p_{T}^{lead}>5  GeV/c) is used as an approximation for the jet axis. The event is consequently divided into three azimuthal regions, and the jet signal is obtained as the difference between the toward region, that contains jet fragmentation products in addition to the underlying event (UE), and the transverse region, which is dominated by the UE. The coalescence parameter in the jet is found to be approximately a factor of 10 larger than that in the underlying event. This experimental observation is consistent with the coalescence picture and can be attributed to the smaller average phase-space distance between nucleons in the jet cone as compared with the underlying event. The results presented in this Letter are compared to predictions from a simple nucleon coalescence model, where the phase-space distributions of nucleons are generated using pythia8 with the Monash 2013 tuning, and to predictions from a deuteron production model based on ordinary nuclear reactions with parametrized energy-dependent cross sections tuned on data. The latter model is implemented in pythia8.3. Both models reproduce the observed large difference between in-jet and out-of-jet coalescence parameters, although the almost flat trend of the B_{2}^{Jet} is not reproduced by the models, which instead give a decreasing trend.

Predictors of mortality and nephrectomy in emphysematous pyelonephritis: a tertiary care centre study

INTRODUCTION

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a deadly disease due to its associated morbidity and mortality. Attempts have been made to identify predictors of severity, mortality and need for nephrectomy in EPN with little success.

METHODS

We conducted an ambispective study of EPN patients between March 2014 and September 2019. Retrospective data were collected which included age, sex, comorbidities, symptoms, signs, laboratory investigations including imaging, need for dialysis, management and any complications. All patients were then followed prospectively for renal dynamic scan, stone surgery or nephrectomy. Univariate analysis was performed to identify factors affecting mortality and need for elective nephrectomy.

RESULTS

In total, 112 patients were included. Mean patient age was 50.01 years, 55% were female and 5% had bilateral involvement. Fever and flank pain were the most common symptoms. Diabetes was seen in 75% of cases and 30% of cases required haemodialysis at initial presentation. About 60% of patients improved with pigtail drainage. Need for nephrectomy was greater in Huang-Tseng stage 3a (14.8%). Huang-Tseng stages 3b and 4 had higher mortality rates (25%) than the other stages (2.2%). Twelve of 99 patients had non functional kidney on follow-up and underwent elective nephrectomy. Low platelet counts, high body mass index, septic shock, dialysis and higher Huang-Tseng stage were found to be predictive of mortality and renal parenchymal thickness on computed tomography scan was predictive of follow-up nephrectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Thrombocytopaenia, high body mass index, septic shock, haemodialysis and higher Huang-Tseng stage are predictors of mortality and renal parenchymal thickness <5mm is a predictor of poor salvage of affected kidney on follow-up.

COVID-19: Pathophysiology, transmission, and drug development for therapeutic treatment and vaccination strategies

COVID-19, a dreaded and highly contagious pandemic, is flagrantly known for its rapid prevalence across the world. Till date, none of the treatments are distinctly accessible for this life-threatening disease. Under the prevailing conditions of medical emergency, one creative strategy for the identification of novel and potential antiviral agents gaining momentum in research institutions and progressively being leveraged by pharmaceutical companies is target-based drug repositioning/repurposing. A continuous monitoring and recording of results offer an anticipation that this strategy may help to reveal new medications for viral infections. This review recapitulates the neoteric illation of COVID-19, its genomic dispensation, molecular evolution via phylogenetic assessment, drug targets, the most frequently worldwide used repurposed drugs and their therapeutic applications, and a recent update on vaccine management strategies. The available data from solidarity trials exposed that the treatment with several known drugs, viz. lopinavir-ritonavir, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, etc had displayed various antagonistic effects along with no impactful result in diminution of mortality rate. The drugs like remdesivir, favipiravir, and ribavirin proved to be quite safer therapeutic options for treatment against COVID-19. Similarly, dexamethasone, convalescent plasma therapy and oral administration of 2DG are expected to reduce the mortality rate of COVID-19 patients.

Hypertriton Production in p-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

The study of nuclei and antinuclei production has proven to be a powerful tool to investigate the formation mechanism of loosely bound states in high-energy hadronic collisions. The first measurement of the production of _{Λ}^{3}H in p-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV is presented in this Letter. Its production yield measured in the rapidity interval -1<y<0 for the 40% highest-multiplicity p-Pb collisions is dN/dy=[6.3±1.8(stat)±1.2(syst)]×10^{-7}. The measurement is compared with the expectations of statistical hadronization and coalescence models, which describe the nucleosynthesis in hadronic collisions. These two models predict very different yields of the hypertriton in charged particle multiplicity environments relevant to small collision systems such as p-Pb, and therefore the measurement of dN/dy is crucial to distinguish between them. The precision of this measurement leads to the exclusion with a significance larger than 6.9σ of some configurations of the statistical hadronization model, thus constraining the theory behind the production of loosely bound states at hadron colliders.

Polarization of Λ and Λ[over ¯] Hyperons along the Beam Direction in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s]_{NN}=5.02 TeV

The polarization of the Λ and Λ[over ¯] hyperons along the beam (z) direction, P_{z}, has been measured in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV recorded with ALICE at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The main contribution to P_{z} comes from elliptic flow-induced vorticity and can be characterized by the second Fourier sine coefficient P_{z,s2}=⟨P_{z}sin(2φ-2Ψ_{2})⟩, where φ is the hyperon azimuthal emission angle and Ψ_{2} is the elliptic flow plane angle. We report the measurement of P_{z,s2} for different collision centralities and in the 30%-50% centrality interval as a function of the hyperon transverse momentum and rapidity. The P_{z,s2} is positive similarly as measured by the STAR Collaboration in Au-Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200  GeV, with somewhat smaller amplitude in the semicentral collisions. This is the first experimental evidence of a nonzero hyperon P_{z} in Pb-Pb collisions at the LHC. The comparison of the measured P_{z,s2} with the hydrodynamic model calculations shows sensitivity to the competing contributions from thermal and the recently found shear-induced vorticity, as well as to whether the polarization is acquired at the quark-gluon plasma or the hadronic phase.

Measurement of the Groomed Jet Radius and Momentum Splitting Fraction in pp and Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

This article presents groomed jet substructure measurements in pp and Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV with the ALICE detector. The soft drop grooming algorithm provides access to the hard parton splittings inside a jet by removing soft wide-angle radiation. We report the groomed jet momentum splitting fraction, z_{g}, and the (scaled) groomed jet radius, θ_{g}. Charged-particle jets are reconstructed at midrapidity using the anti-k_{T} algorithm with resolution parameters R=0.2 and R=0.4. In heavy-ion collisions, the large underlying event poses a challenge for the reconstruction of groomed jet observables, since fluctuations in the background can cause groomed parton splittings to be misidentified. By using strong grooming conditions to reduce this background, we report these observables fully corrected for detector effects and background fluctuations for the first time. A narrowing of the θ_{g} distribution in Pb-Pb collisions compared to pp collisions is seen, which provides direct evidence of the modification of the angular structure of jets in the quark-gluon plasma. No significant modification of the z_{g} distribution in Pb-Pb collisions compared to pp collisions is observed. These results are compared with a variety of theoretical models of jet quenching, and provide constraints on jet energy-loss mechanisms and coherence effects in the quark-gluon plasma.

Comparative analysis of the diagnostic performance of five commercial COVID-19 qRT PCR kits used in India

To meet the unprecedented requirement of diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2, a large number of diagnostic kits were authorized by concerned authorities for diagnostic use within a short period of time during the initial phases of the ongoing pandemic. We undertook this study to evaluate the inter-test agreement and other key operational features of 5 such commercial kits that have been extensively used in India for routine diagnostic testing for COVID-19. The five commercial kits were evaluated, using a panel of positive and negative respiratory samples, considering the kit provided by National Institute of Virology, Indian Council of Medical Research (2019-nCoV Kit) as the reference. The positive panel comprised of individuals who fulfilled the 3 criteria of being clinically symptomatic, having history of contact with diagnosed cases and testing positive in the reference kit. The negative panel included both healthy and disease controls, the latter being drawn from individuals diagnosed with other respiratory viral infections. The same protocol of sample collection, same RNA extraction kit and same RT-PCR instrument were used for all the kits. Clinical samples were collected from a panel of 92 cases and 60 control patients, who fulfilled our inclusion criteria. The control group included equal number of healthy individuals and patients infected with other respiratory viruses (n = 30, in each group). We observed varying sensitivity and specificity among the evaluated kits, with LabGun COVID-19 RT-PCR kit showing the highest sensitivity and specificity (94% and 100% respectively), followed by TaqPath COVID-19 Combo and Allplex 2019-nCoV assays. The extent of inter-test agreement was not associated with viral loads of the samples. Poor correlation was observed between Ct values of the same genes amplified using different kits. Our findings reveal the presence of wide heterogeneity and sub-optimal inter-test agreement in the diagnostic performance of the evaluated kits and hint at the need of adopting stringent standards for fulfilling the quality assurance requirements of the COVID-19 diagnostic process.

Results of ala carte Posteromedial Soft Tissue Release in Idiopathic Clubfoot

Introduction

The aim of this study is to assess the outcomes of ala carte posteromedial release in children over two years of age who were not responding to the Ponseti method of treatment of idiopathic clubfoot.

Material and Methods

A retrospective observational study from September 2013 to August 2015 was conducted at a tertiary level medical teaching institution. The clubfeet were classified according to the Harold and Walker classification. Radiographic parameters assessed were the talocalcaneal angle (AP, lateral), talus-first metatarsal angle (AP, lateral) and calcaneal-fifth metatarsal angle. The scar and the functional score, according to Laaveg and Ponseti, were evaluated as outcome measures at the final follow-up.

Results

Twenty-four children with a mean age of 43.7 ± 24.7 months were enrolled in the study. There was a total of 36 clubfeet: 21 (65.6%) with a poor functional outcome; 12 (37.4%) with excellent to good scar in both horizontal and vertical components. There was a statistical significance between the pre-operative and post-operative radiological parameters (p<0.05). None of the patients presented with any limitation of activities of daily living despite the poor functional outcome in many of the children. There was no significant association between the qualities of scar (horizontal, vertical) and the functional outcome with age at presentation, pre-operative Harold and Walker classification and pre-operative radiographic angles.

Conclusion

Surgical intervention in terms of ala carte posteromedial soft tissue release could not produce a good outcome over four years in CTEV. The threshold for surgery in CTEV should be high, given the poor results.

Multiphoton light emission in barium stannate perovskites driven by oxygen vacancies, Eu3+ and La3+: accessing the role of defects and local structures

Defect engineering in perovskites has been found to be the most efficient approach to manipulate their performance in ultraviolet-to-visible photon conversion. Under UV irradiation, BaSnO₃ exhibited multicolor photoluminescence (MCPL) in the bluish white region. Its origin has not been well studied in the literature and has been probed in this work using synchrotron radiation, positron annihilation and density functional theory. To achieve desirable performance of doped BaSnO₃ in optoelectronics, it is imperative to have correct information on the dopant local site, doping induced defect evolution and efficacy of host to dopant energy transfer (HDET). Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) showed that Eu³⁺ ions stabilize at both Ba²⁺ and Sn⁴⁺ sites consistent with the highly negative formation energy of around -6.26 eV. Eu³⁺ doping leads to an intense ⁵D₀→⁷F₁ orange emission and a feeble ⁵D₀→⁷F₂ red emission and an internal quantum yield (IQY) of ∼21% mediated by ET from the defect level of Eu_Ba and Eu_Sn sites to the valence band maximum (VBM). X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) ruled out any role of Sn²⁺ in the PL of BaSnO₃ or Eu²⁺ in the PL of BaSnO3:Eu³⁺. Interestingly, when co-doped, Eu³⁺ stabilizes at Sn⁴⁺ sites whereas La³⁺ stabilizes at Ba²⁺ sites with a formation energy value of -6.44 eV. Based on the asymmetry ratio in emission spectra, it was found that La³⁺ ions lead to lowering of symmetry around Eu³⁺ due to increased vacancies and structural distortions, and also suppress the luminescence IQY. We have performed experimental positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) to probe the defects in BaSnO₃ in pristine samples and on doping/co-doping. The positron lifetimes for saturation trapping of positrons in various kinds of defects envisaged in BaSnO₃ and in the defect free system were calculated using the MIKA Doppler program. Such deep insight into the effect of local structures, dopant sites, defect evolution, ET, etc. on the optical properties of BaSnO₃ is expected to provide very deep insight for material scientists into the fabrication of perovskite-based optoelectronic and light-emitting devices.

Molecular modelling, synthesis and antimicrobial evaluation of benzimidazole nucleoside mimetics

A series of new N-1-(β-d-ribofuranosyl) benzimidazole derivatives has been designed using in silico methods and synthesized as probable antimicrobial agents. Further, the compounds were assessed for their antibacterial and antifungal activity. Antibacterial screening was done by employing broth micro-dilution method and compounds exhibited excellent inhibitory activity (MIC, 50-1.56 µg/mL) against different human pathogenic bacteria, viz. B. cerus, B. subtilis, S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa and drug resistant strain (DRS) of E. coli. A great synergistic effect was observed during evaluation of ∑FIC, where a combination study was performed using standard references, viz. chloramphenicol and kanamycin. The MIC data obtained from different methods of combination approach revealed 4-128 fold more potency compared to compounds tested alone. The results clearly indicated the possibility of these compounds as active ingredients of drug regimen used against MDR strains. Antifungal screening were also performed employing two different methods, viz. serial dilution method and zone inhibition method, clearly indicated that compounds were also potentially active against several species of pathogenic fungal strains, viz. A. flavus, A. niger, F. oxysporum and C. albicans. The assessment of structure activity relationship (SAR) clearly revealed that presence of less polar and more hydrophobic substituents positively favours the antibacterial activity, conversely, more polar and hydrophilic substituents favours the antifungal activities. Thus, the results positively endorsed the compounds as potent antibacterial and antifungal agents which could be developed as possible drug regimens.

Effectiveness of ChAdOx1 nCOV-19 Vaccine: Experience of a tertiary care institute

Background

The first dose of the ChAdOx1 nCoV- 19 Corona Virus Vaccine (Covishield) was administered to the eligible beneficiaries of tertiary care institute of Western Maharashtra on 16 Jan 21 and in the past three months almost 97% of the staff has been vaccinated. The present study analyses the incidence of COVID cases in the unvaccinated and vaccinated population of the institute.

Methods

All Covid 19 infections (RT-PCR positive) from 01 February 21 to 25 April 21 were included in the study and analyzed as per their vaccination status. To assess the COVID 19 transmission in contacts, Secondary Attack Rates (SAR) of the pre-vaccination period (Jun–Oct 20) was compared with the present SAR.

Results

A total of 113 cases occurred in the study period (01 Feb to 25 Apr 21). Lower number of infections were observed among the fully vaccinated as compared to partially vaccinated and non-vaccinated. The overall vaccine effectiveness was found to be 88.6% (81.55–92.37) and 44.1% (4.55–67.3) in completely and partially vaccinated individuals respectively. Hazard Ratios for getting infected dropped significantly after 28 days of the second dose. The SAR in high risk contacts (HRCs) was found to be 4.25%, which was lower than SAR (20.6%) of pre-vaccination period.

Conclusion

This is one of the earliest studies in India to report the impact of COVID-19 vaccination. The results indicate that the vaccine provides effective protection against COVID-19 infection. However, given the complex dynamics of vaccination, the role of NPIs and implementation of COVID appropriate behavior cannot be undermined.

Comparison of tear characteristics, outcome parameters and healing in traumatic and non-traumatic rotator cuff tear: a prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Acute traumatic and chronic non-traumatic rotator cuff tears are etiologically distinguishable entities. However, prospective studies comparing tear characteristics and outcomes between these two types of tears are lacking. The purpose of this study was to compare the tear characteristics, clinical and functional outcomes, and tendon healing as assessed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), between traumatic and non-traumatic rotator cuff tears.

METHODS

MRI proven rotator cuff tears were allocated into two groups according to the history of injury: Group 1 included 28 patients with traumatic tears and group 2 included 33 patients of non-traumatic cuff tears. Both the groups were compared for preoperative tear characteristics (tear size, muscle atrophy, fatty degeneration), range of motion, strength of shoulder abduction and external rotation, functional outcomes, and tendon integrity on MRI, 2 years after the surgery.

RESULTS

Postoperative mean active range of abduction (p = 0.005), abduction strength (p = 0.013), external rotation strength (p = 0.027), University of California at Los Angeles score (p < 0.001), Constant score (p = 0.002), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores (p = 0.028) and visual analog scale for pain (p = 0.02) were significantly better in group 1 as compared to group 2. The postoperative structural integrity of the cuff on MRI was better in group 1 as compared to group 2, but the values did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.13).

CONCLUSION

Findings from this study suggest that traumatic tears affect younger patients and while having a larger tear size, they have lesser muscle atrophy, fatty degeneration, and tendon retraction. Functional outcomes are better after treatment of traumatic tears as compared to non-traumatic tears. Chronicity of the tear and tendon retraction negatively affected healing in traumatic cuff tears. Muscle atrophy was found to be associated with poorer healing in non-traumatic tears. However, tear size was not associated with healing.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II, Prospective cohort study.

The perspectives of biomarker-based electrochemical immunosensors, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Medical Things toward COVID-19 diagnosis and management

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the COVID-19 an international health emergency due to the severity of infection progression, which became more severe due to its continuous spread globally and the unavailability of appropriate therapy and diagnostics systems. Thus, there is a need for efficient devices to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection at an early stage. Nowadays, the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique is being applied for detecting this virus around the globe; however, factors such as stringent expertise, long diagnostic times, invasive and painful screening, and high costs have restricted the use of RT-PCR methods for rapid diagnostics. Therefore, the development of cost-effective, portable, sensitive, prompt and selective sensing systems to detect SARS-CoV-2 in biofluids at fM/pM/nM concentrations would be a breakthrough in diagnostics. Immunosensors that show increased specificity and sensitivity are considerably fast and do not imply costly reagents or instruments, reducing the cost for COVID-19 detection. The current developments in immunosensors perhaps signify the most significant opportunity for a rapid assay to detect COVID-19, without the need of highly skilled professionals and specialized tools to interpret results. Artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) can also be equipped with this immunosensing approach to investigate useful networking through database management, sharing, and analytics to prevent and manage COVID-19. Herein, we represent the collective concepts of biomarker-based immunosensors along with AI and IoMT as smart sensing strategies with bioinformatics approach to monitor non-invasive early stage SARS-CoV-2 development, with fast point-of-care (POC) diagnostics as the crucial goal. This approach should be implemented quickly and verified practicality for clinical samples before being set in the present times for mass-diagnostic research.

Evolution of local structure and superconductivity in CaFe2As2

We investigate the evolution of the local structural parameters and their implication in unconventional superconductivity of 122 class of materials employing extended x-ray absorption fine structure studies. The spectral functions near the FeK- and AsK-absorption edges of CaFe₂As₂and its superconducting composition, CaFe_1.9Co_0.1As₂(T_c= 12 K) exhibit evidence of enhancement of Fe contributions near the Fermi level with Co substitution, which becomes more prominent at low temperatures indicating enhanced role of Fe in the electronic properties with doping. As-Fe and Fe-Fe bondlengths derived from the experimental data reveal evolution with temperature across the magneto-structural transition in the parent compound. The evolution of these parameters in Co-doped superconducting composition is similar to its parent compound although no magneto-structural transition is observed in this system. These results reveal an evidence of doping induced evolution to the proximity to critical behavior and/or strong nematic fluctuations which might be important for superconductivity in this system.

Acute gastroenteritis outbreak in a school associated with religious ceremony in Mirzapur District, Uttar Pradesh, India

Background

A suspected food-poisoning outbreak occurred in a residential school in Mirzapur, India, in February, 2017.

Objective

We investigated the outbreak to find out the epidemiology and to identify the risk factors.

Methods

A descriptive study followed by retrospective-cohort study was done to investigate the outbreak. Cases (defined as ≥3 or more loose stools in 24 h, abdominal pain, or vomiting with onset between February 1 and 4, 2017) were searched by reviewing sick/patient registers from school and nearby health facilities. Cases were also searched through active surveillance by visiting school hostels. Stool samples were sent for microbiological testing. Food sources and food handlers were also assessed.

Results

Among 468 students, 204 cases were identified (44% attack rate) without any mortality. The median age was found to be 14 years (range: 10-18 years) and 59% were male. Relative risk with consumption of curd, apple, and panjiri (sweetened wheat flour) was found to be 15.4, 2.5, and 3.7, respectively. All these three food items were served as prasad, a religious offering. Only consumption of sweetened curd (adjusted odds ratio = 36.1, 95% confidence interval = 12.1-107.8) was significantly associated with gastroenteritis. No microorganism was isolated from two tested stool samples. Curd from the vendor was prepared from nonpasteurized milk. There were no illnesses among food-handlers.

Conclusions

This outbreak of acute gastroenteritis in a residential school was associated with consumption of curd, likely contaminated with preformed toxins. We recommend implementation of the food safety and standards authority of India regulations.

Large distal ureteric stone with high burden urothelial cancer of the entire ureter and renal pelvis: a dual pathology

Upper-tract urothelial cancer comprises only 3% of all urothelial cancers. Risk factors include tobacco smoking, recurrent urinary infection, urolithiasis and analgesic abuse. Urolithiasis-induced chronic inflammation leads to urothelial proliferation and eventual malignant transformation. The most common association is reported with squamous cell cancer. A 54-year man under evaluation for right flank pain was diagnosed with a large distal ureteric stone and urothelial cancer of the entire right ureter and renal pelvis. The patient underwent right nephroureterectomy and stone retrieval, with urinary bladder cuff excision and pelvic lymph node dissection. On follow-up, the patient succumbed to disease recurrence with widespread metastasis. Urothelial cancer associated with stone disease is atypical. Long-standing inflammation causing metaplastic and dysplastic changes is a possible hypothesis. Careful assessment of the malignancy should be looked for in patients with long-standing obstruction due to stone disease.

Development of a visible loop mediated isothermal amplification assay for rapid detection of Bacillus anthracis

Distressing effects on animal and human health with lethal progression, being used as bioweapon and shared features with non-pathogenic bacteria demands sensitive, specific, safe, cost effective and rapid detection methods for anthrax causing organisms. Conventional microbiology based diagnostics for anthrax are time consuming and need sophisticated equipment, while molecular diagnostics require less time and labor. The Loop mediated isothermal amplification assay (LAMP) is rapid, sensitive and specific assay and requires no specialized equipment. In the present study, we developed a LAMP assay for rapid as well as specific detection of Bacillus anthracis. The optimized assay produced positive results with the Sterne strain and one field isolate of B. anthracis and, negative results with other bacteria of the same and different genera within 2 h. Sensitivity was 500 fg of total DNA of B. anthracis, which was 100 times more sensitive than conventional PCR. The present study also demonstrated that the simple method of total DNA extraction by repeated boiling and freezing will not adversely affect the LAMP results. In conclusion, the optimized LAMP assay is a promising tool for the specific, sensitive, less time-consuming diagnosis for anthrax causing bacteria and also, for detecting the virulence of suspected B. anthracis cultures.

Structural, optical and electronic properties of Ni1-x Co x O in the complete composition range

Crystallographic and electronic structures of phase pure ternary solid solutions of Ni_1−xCo_xO (x = 0 to 1) have been studied using XRD, EXAFS and XAS measurements. The lattice parameter of the cubic rock-salt (RS) Ni_1−xCo_xO solid solutions increases linearly with increasing Co content and follows Vegard's law, in the complete composition range. A linear increase in the bond lengths (Ni/Co–O, Ni–Ni and Ni–Co) with “x”, closely following the bond lengths determined from virtual crystal approximation (VCA), is observed, which implies that there is only a minimal local distortion of the lattice in the mixed crystal. The optical gap of the ternary solid solution determined from diffuse reflectivity measurements shows neither a linear variation with Co composition nor bowing, as observed in many ternary semiconductors. This trend in the variation of optical gaps is explained by probing the conduction band using XAS at the O K-edge. We have observed that the variation in the onset energy of the conduction band edge with “x” is very similar to the variation in the optical gap with “x”, thus clearly indicating the dominant role played by the conduction band position in determining the optical gap. The variation in the intensities of the pre-edge peak in the XANES spectra measured at Ni and Co K-edges, and the L_1/2 peak in XAS spectra measured at Ni and Co L-edges, is found to depend on the unoccupied O 2p-metal-(Ni/Co) 3d hybridized states and the bond lengths.

The optical gap of Ni_1−xCo_xO solid solutions neither varies linearly with Co composition nor shows any bowing in the complete composition range. The nature of this variation of the gap is governed by the position of conduction band edge.

Conservation Agriculture-based Sustainable Intensification of Cereal Systems Leads to Energy Conservation, Higher Productivity and Farm Profitability

In the Indo-Gangetic Plains of South Asia, the quadruple challenges of deteriorating soil quality, declining groundwater, energy shortages, and diminishing farm profitability threaten sustainability of conventional till (CT)-based cereal production systems. A 5-year study was conducted to evaluate the effect of conservation agriculture (CA)-based management (tillage, crop establishment, residue management, and system intensification through mungbean integration) on energy budget, water productivity, and economic profitability in cereal (rice-wheat, RW/maize-wheat, MW)-based systems compared with CT-based management. In CA systems, crop residues contributed the maximum (~76%) in total energy input (167,995 MJ ha^-1); however, fertilizer application (nonrenewable energy source) contributed the maximum (43%) in total energy input (47,760 MJ ha^-1) in CT-based systems. CA-based cereal (rice/maize) systems recorded higher net energy and energy-intensiveness (EI) levels of 251% and 300%, respectively, compared with those of the CT-based rice-wheat system (RW/CT) (295,217 MJ ha^-1 and 46.05 MJ USD^-1), irrespective of mungbean integration. MWMb/ZT+R utilized 204% more input energy, which resulted in 14% higher net energy and 229% higher EI compared with RW/CT. CA-based RW and MW systems enhanced the crop productivity by 10 and 16%, water productivity by 56 and 33%, and profitability by 34 and 36%, while saving in irrigation water by 38 and 32%, compared with their respective CT-based systems, respectively. CA-based system improved net energy, crop productivity, and profitability; therefore, it should be outscaled to improve the soil and environmental quality in north-west India.

Insight into Speciation and Electrochemistry of Uranyl Ions in Deep Eutectic Solvents

Understanding the speciation of metal ions in heterogeneous hydrogen-bonded deep eutectic solvents (DES) has immense importance for their wide range of applications in green technology, environmental remediation, and nuclear industry. Unfortunately, the fundamental nature of the interaction between DES and actinide ions is almost completely unknown. In the present work, we outline the speciation, solvation mechanism, and redox chemistry of uranyl ion (UO₂²⁺) in DES consisting of choline chloride (ChCl) and urea as the hydrogen-bond donor. Electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques along with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have provided a microscopic insight into the solvation and speciation of the UO₂²⁺ ion in DES and also on associated changes in physical composition of the DES. The hydrogen-bonded structure of DES plays an important role in the redox behavior of the UO₂²⁺ ion because of its strong complexation with DES components. X-ray absorption spectroscopy and MD simulations showed strong covalent interactions of uranyl ions with the constituents of DES, which led to rearrangement of the hydrogen-bonding network in it without formation of any clusters or aggregations. This, in turn, stabilizes the most unstable pentavalent uranium (UO₂⁺) in the DES. MD analysis also highlights the fact that the number of H-bonds is reduced in the presence of uranyl nitrate irrespective of the presence of water with respect to pristine reline, which suggests high stability of the formed complexed species. The effect of added water up to 20 v/v % on speciation is insignificant for DES, but the presence of water influences the redox chemistry of UO₂²⁺ ions considerably. The fundamental findings of the present work would have far reaching consequences on understanding DES, particularly for application in the field of nuclear fuel reprocessing.

Phylogenetic analysis of haemagglutinin gene deciphering a new genetically distinct lineage of canine distemper virus circulating among domestic dogs in India

Canine distemper (CD) is one of the highly contagious and invariably fatal viral diseases of dogs and other carnivores. Despite the widespread use of modified live vaccines to control CD, the prevalence of disease has increased at an alarming rate in recent years. Although a number of factors may be ascribed for vaccine failure, antigenic differences among the vaccine and wild-type strains have gained the interest of researchers. Considering the high genetic variability of haemagglutinin gene (H gene) and its role in eliciting the immune response to canine distemper virus (CDV), we have generated nine full-length CDV H gene sequences from infected dogs including three vaccinated cases. Bayesian analysis was performed using 102 full-length H gene nucleotide sequences over a time frame of 76 years (1940-2016) from 18 countries. The time to the most recent common ancestor (tMRCA) of CDV was estimated to be 1696 AD. Phylogenetic reconstruction clustered Indian wild-type viruses into a distinct monophyletic group clearly separated from the previously established CDV lineages. This signifies the presence of a novel genetic variant (proposed as "Lineage India-1/Asia-5") circulating among dog population in India. To investigate the importance of substitutions at amino acid residues 530 and 549 of CDV H protein in determining the host switches from canid to non-canid hosts, we analysed 125 H gene sequences including nine sequences generated in this study. Selection pressure analysis and analysis of amino acid sequences revealed a trend towards adaptation of 549H variants in non-canid hosts although no role of G/E530R/D/N substitution could be identified. This is the first comprehensive study about the nature and ecology of CDV circulating among dog population in India. Outbreaks in vaccinated animals as observed in this study have raised a concern towards the effectiveness of current vaccine strains warranting detailed investigation.

Complexation of U(VI) with Cucurbit[5]uril: Thermodynamic and Structural investigation in aqueous medium

The assessment of cucurbituril (CBn) for selective removal of actinides from nuclear waste streams requires comprehensive understanding of binding parameters and coordination of these complexes. The present work is the first experimental report on complexation of actinide ion with Cucurbit[5]uril (CB5) in solution. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔG, ΔH and ΔS) for complexation of CB5 with U(VI) in formic acid water medium were determined using microcalorimetry and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The enthalpy and entropy of complexation revealed the partial binding of U(VI) to CB5 portal. The partial binding was confirmed by spectroscopic techniques viz. extended X absorption fine structure spectroscopy (EXAFS), ¹H and ¹³C NMR. The EXAFS χ(r) versus r spectra for U-CB5 complex has been fitted from 1.4 to 3.5 Å with two oxygen shells and a carbon shell. The presence of three carbon atom in secondary shell shows the involvement of only three carbonyl oxygens directly bonding to U(VI) which is in contrast to that calculated from gas phase DFT calculation of unhydrated system. The combined effect of hydration and formic acid encapsulation led to the enhanced stability of partially bound U(VI) to CB5. In the present work the binding of formic acid has also been studied by fluorescence spectroscopy. ESI-MS data shows the unusual stabilization of U(VI) by CB5 in gas phase.

Evaluation of genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of ethyl acetate extract of Aspergillus flavus on Spodoptera litura

AIM

Recent concerns about the possible adverse effects of agricultural chemicals on health and environment have generated a considerable interest in biological alternatives. This study aimed to test the insecticidal potential of fungus Aspergillus flavus and revealed its genotoxic and cytotoxic effects using Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) as a model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The fungus was isolated from the surface of the dead insect and investigated for its insecticidal potential against S. litura by bioassay studies. Significant increase in mortality, prolonged development period and reduced adult emergence in S. litura were observed in larva fed on diet supplemented with fungal extract. In addition, fungus was also found to cause oxidative stress, DNA damage and cell death. Significantly higher percentages of necrotic cells and DNA damage were observed in larvae treated with fungal extract. Furthermore, DNA repair studies predicted the longevity of toxic effects induced by fungus. Phytochemical and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography studies revealed the presence of phenolic compounds in the extract and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry indicated it to be a non-aflatoxin strain of A. flavus. Fungal extract was less toxic to mammalian cell lines as compared to cytotoxic drug doxorubicin (DOX) in the MTT assay.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights the insecticidal potential of A. flavus by revealing its genotoxicity and cytotoxicity causing potential. This is the first report showing the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the fungus A. flavus on S. litura.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The study provides a useful insight to explore microbial agents as biopesticides in order to reduce various environmental as well as human health problems due to synthetic pesticides.

Contraceptive use and its determinants amongst armed forces personnel

Background

Nearly 1.5 billion adolescent girls are entering into child bearing age groups without effective knowledge regarding family planning practices which are essential to maintain their reproductive health. Timely and effective knowledge regarding family planning norms and practices among the young women during their initial married days are vital. Therefore the study was carried out with the aim to find out the factors associated with use of contraceptive among Armed Forces Personnel.

Methods

A cross sectional survey was carried out among Armed Forces personnel living in a Military station with pre-validated and pre-tested questionnaire. Data was collected from 221 eligible couples. Univariate and logistic regression were done to find out the variables determining family planning.

Results

Out of 221 couples, 65.2% (144) of couples were practicing some or the other methods of family planning while 34.8% (77) didn't practice any methods. Age, age at marriage, sex of first child, type of family, empowerment and parity of women were significantly associated with contraceptive acceptance in univariate model. However in logistic regression analysis age at marriage, empowerment and parity were significant predictors of family planning. Major reason for not adopting any contraception was want of another child (20, 26%), girl child (18, 23%), male child (18, 23%) and worry about side effects (11, 14.3%).

Conclusion

The study highlights the gap in preferences and practices of contraceptive and emphasized the need to highlight safety of contraceptive during Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign.

Multi-organ IgG4-related disease: Demystifying the diagnostic enigma

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a multisystemic mass forming immune-mediated disease entity, commonly creating confusion and diagnostic challenges. We present a case of a 25-year-old female who presented with bilateral orbital masses, lymphadenopathy, paraspinal and renal masses, which clinicoradiologically simulated lymphoma. The lymph node biopsy revealed interfollicular sheets of plasma cells creating confusion with Castleman's disease and marginal zone lymphoma. The orbital biopsy revealed ductular destruction, periductular plasma cells, and fibrosis, mimicking Sjogren's syndrome and Castleman's disease. However, the correlation of the clinical features with histopathological findings, IgG4 immunopositivity, and serum studies helped in clinching the diagnosis. This case presents an uncommon combination of clinical features infrequently reported in literature. Furthermore, and more importantly, it highlights the need to keep a differential of IgG4-RD in mind, to aid early and correct treatment of the disease.

Quantification of flexoelectricity in PbTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattice polar vortices using machine learning and phase-field modeling

Flexoelectricity refers to electric polarization generated by heterogeneous mechanical strains, namely strain gradients, in materials of arbitrary crystal symmetries. Despite more than 50 years of work on this effect, an accurate identification of its coupling strength remains an experimental challenge for most materials, which impedes its wide recognition. Here, we show the presence of flexoelectricity in the recently discovered polar vortices in PbTiO₃/SrTiO₃ superlattices based on a combination of machine-learning analysis of the atomic-scale electron microscopy imaging data and phenomenological phase-field modeling. By scrutinizing the influence of flexocoupling on the global vortex structure, we match theory and experiment using computer vision methodologies to determine the flexoelectric coefficients for PbTiO₃ and SrTiO₃. Our findings highlight the inherent, nontrivial role of flexoelectricity in the generation of emergent complex polarization morphologies and demonstrate a viable approach to delineating this effect, conducive to the deeper exploration of both topics.

Flexoelectric coupling between strain gradients and polarization influences the physics of ferroelectric devices but it is difficult to directly probe its effects. Here, Li et al. use principal component analysis to compare STEM images with phase-field modeling and extract the flexoelectric contributions.

Phase coexistence and electric-field control of toroidal order in oxide superlattices

Systems that exhibit phase competition, order parameter coexistence, and emergent order parameter topologies constitute a major part of modern condensed-matter physics. Here, by applying a range of characterization techniques, and simulations, we observe that in PbTiO₃/SrTiO₃ superlattices all of these effects can be found. By exploring superlattice period-, temperature- and field-dependent evolution of these structures, we observe several new features. First, it is possible to engineer phase coexistence mediated by a first-order phase transition between an emergent, low-temperature vortex phase with electric toroidal order and a high-temperature ferroelectric a₁/a₂ phase. At room temperature, the coexisting vortex and ferroelectric phases form a mesoscale, fibre-textured hierarchical superstructure. The vortex phase possesses an axial polarization, set by the net polarization of the surrounding ferroelectric domains, such that it possesses a multi-order-parameter state and belongs to a class of gyrotropic electrotoroidal compounds. Finally, application of electric fields to this mixed-phase system permits interconversion between the vortex and the ferroelectric phases concomitant with order-of-magnitude changes in piezoelectric and nonlinear optical responses. Our findings suggest new cross-coupled functionalities.

Effect of oxygen partial pressure in deposition ambient on the properties of RF magnetron sputter deposited Gd2O3 thin films

Gadolinium oxide is an excellent optical material that offers high transmission in a wide wavelength range of 200-1600 nm and exhibits a high bulk refractive index of ∼1.80 at 550 nm. In the present study, a set of Gd₂O₃ thin films has been deposited on fused silica substrates by RF sputtering of a Gd₂O₃ target under various O₂ to Ar flow ratios. The samples have been characterized by grazing incidence x-ray diffraction (GIXRD) to study the long range structural behavior, by GIXR to study density and surface roughness of the films, by atomic force microscopy measurements to study morphological properties, by Rutherford backscattering measurements for compositional studies, and by transmission spectrophotometry and spectroscopic ellipsometry techniques to study their optical properties. It has been observed that the films deposited with 10% oxygen partial pressure have low density, high surface roughness, and high void content, which results in a low value of refractive index of this film, and film quality improves as oxygen partial pressure is further increased. Extended x-ray absorption fine structure measurement with synchrotron radiation has also been employed to extract local structural information around Gd sites, which has in turn been used to explain some of the observed macroscopic properties of the films.

Postradiotherapy small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of base of tongue: An unusual clinical and site presentation

Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) of the tongue is an extremely rare entity with only seven cases reported in literature till date. These are high-grade tumors with a dismal prognosis. There is much ambiguity regarding the classification, treatment protocols and prognostic factors of these tumors due to the paucity of studies. We describe an exceptionally rare and unusual case of small cell NEC of the base of tongue arising in an elderly man 6 years after receiving radiotherapy for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma at the same site. The diagnosis was confirmed on histopathological examination and supported by immunohistochemical positivity for neuron-specific enolase, synaptophysin, chromogranin, pan-cytokeratin, and cytokeratin 7. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of intraoral NEC arising many years later within the irradiated field of the initial tumor.

Association of chemokine receptor CX3CR1 V249I and T280M polymorphisms with chronic kidney disease

The chemokine fractalkine (CX3CL1) and its receptor CX3CR1 are involved in the activation of leukocytes. Two common single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the CX3CR1 gene, V249I and T280M, have been associated with reduced fractalkine signaling, leading to decreased adhesive function and leukocyte chemotaxis. We hypothesized that variation in the CX3CR1 gene could be associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), a disease of inflammatory activation. We studied the association between CX3CR1 V249I and T280M polymorphisms, and fractalkine and highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in 123 patients with CKD and 100 healthy controls (HCs). Genotype analysis was done by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism, and fractalkine and hs-CRP levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. MM genotype of T280M was absent in CKD patients, while in controls it was seen in 1% of the individuals. The allele frequencies in both the groups were similar (P = 0.059). Compared to HC, M280M + T280M genotype was more frequent in CKD (P = 0.041). The frequency of II genotype of V249I was 0.8% in CKD, whereas in HC, it was 2%. I249I + V249I genotype was more frequent in CKD as compared to HC (P = 0.034). No difference in allelic frequency of V249I was noted between the two groups (P = 0.061, odds ratios = 1.74, 95% confidence intervals = 0.96–3.12). Plasma fractalkine and serum hs-CRP levels were higher in CKD subjects (P = 0.004 and P < 0.0001). No association of either genotype was found with fractalkine and hs-CRP levels. Polymorphisms at I249 and M280 genotype in CX3CR1 gene are associated with CKD; however, there was no association of fractalkine or inflammatory marker with these genotypes.

Self-prescription of Paracetamol by Undergraduate Students in BP Koirala Institution of Health Sciences

INTRODUCTION

Self-prescription of medicines are common especially in low income countries.Paracetamol is a common medicine that is self-prescribed also among university students. Incorrect use of paracetamol can lead to ill effects on health including liver failure. There is scarce evidence of the use of paracetamol by self-medication in Nepal. The objective of this study is to evaluate the paracetamol use by self-prescription among the undergraduate students of BPKIHS.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 570 undergraduate students of BPKIHS from February 2016 till July 2016. Pretested semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information regarding socio-demographic characteristics, paracetamol use and perception regarding paracetamol use. Systematic random sampling was done from a list of all medical dental and nursing students to select the study sample.

RESULTS

Most (86%) students are in the category of 20-24 years. Female students are slightly more than male. Majority of the students are from Nepal. More than half of the students are from medical stream. Self-prescription of paracetamol is seen among 90.1% of the students in our study. Correct dose of paracetamol was mentioned by less than half (49.3%) of the students. Self-prescription of paracetamol is considered beneficial by all participants of this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-prescription of paracetamol by health sciences students of B P Koirala Institute of Health Sciences is high, while the knowledge of correct dose of paracetamol for adults is low. There is a need to further explore this gap and possibly conduct further studies for other medicines as well.

Evaluation of Parmotrema reticulatum taylor for antibacterial and antiinflammatory activities

Lichens produce variety of secondary metabolites including depsides, depsidones and dibenzofurans having multifunctional activity in response to external environmental condition. Present study provides evidence for in vitro antibacterial and in vivo antiinflammatory activity of acetone and ethanol extracts of Parmotrema reticulatum. In vitro antibacterial activity was investigated against gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Cotton pellet-induced granuloma, xylene-induced ear swelling, carragennan-induced edema, histamine-induced and carboxymethylcellulose sodium-induced leukocyte emigration in mice models were used to quantify the antiinflammatory activity. Acetone and ethanol extracts were showed antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis (minimal inhibitory concentration: 100 and 150 μg/ml) and Staphylococcus aureus (minimal inhibitory concentration: 100 and 200 μg/ml), Escherichia coli (minimal inhibitory concentration: 200 and 250 μg/ml), and Pseudomonasa eruginosa (minimal inhibitory concentration: 200 and 300 μg/ml). Acetone extract was inhibited edema significantly at 200 mg/kg with xylene, cotton pellet, carragennan and histamine induced edema in vivo models. Ethanol extract was found effective at dose of 300 mg/kg with all in vivo antiinflammatory models. The results showed significant (P<0.01) antiinflammatory effects at 200 and 300 mg/kg dose of acetone and ethanol extracts, respectively, which can be concluded that significant activity may be due to presence of flavanoids in ethanol extract and usnic acid in acetone extract.

Gut microbiota in health and disease: an overview focused on metabolic inflammation

In concern to the continuously rising global prevalence of obesity, diabetes and associated diseases, novel preventive and therapeutic approaches are urgently required. However, to explore and develop such innovative strategies, a meticulous comprehension of the biological basis of these diseases is extremely important. Past decade has witnessed an enormous amount of research investigation and advancement in the field of obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome, with the gut microbiota receiving a special focus in the triangle of nutrition, health and diseases. In particular, the role of gut microbiota in health and diseases has been one of the most vigorous and intriguing field of recent research; however, much still remains to be elucidated about its precise role in host metabolism and immune functions and its implication in the onset, progression as well as in the amelioration of metabolic ailments. Recent investigations have suggested a significant contribution of the gut microbiota in the regulation and impairment of energy homeostasis, thereby causing metabolic disorders, such as metabolic endotoxemia, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Numerous inflammatory biomarkers have been found to be associated with obesity, diabetes and risk of other associated adverse outcomes, thereby suggesting that a persistent low-grade inflammatory response is a potential risk factor. In this milieu, this review intends to discuss potential evidences supporting the disturbance of the gut microbiota balance and the intestinal barrier permeability as a potential triggering factor for systemic inflammation in the onset and progression of obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Speciation and site occupancy of uranium in strontium orthosilicate by photoluminescence and X-ray absorption spectroscopy: A combined experimental and theoretical approach

Identifying the oxidation state and coordination geometry of radioactive element like uranium is important to fully understand its toxicology and other harmful effect in environment. Strontium orthosilicate is taken as a model compound for that. Strontium silicate doped with 1.0 mol% of U has been synthesized using sol-gel method and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (TRFS) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS). Uranium exhibits multiple oxidation state and each one of them is having characteristics luminescence is an interesting dopant from structural point of view. TRFS is used to investigate the oxidation state and coordination behavior of uranium in Sr2SiO4. From TRFS measurement it was observed that uranium stabilizes in +6 oxidation state in the form of uranyl ion. Based on luminescence lifetime and EXAFS studies it was inferred that uranyl is stabilized on both 9- and 10-coordinated strontium polyhedra but majority occupies relatively asymmetric 9-coordinated Sr sites. This is further confirmed using theoretical measurement.

Expression and localization of collectins in feto-maternal tissues of human first trimester spontaneous abortion and abortion prone mouse model

Dysregulation of immune response at the feto-maternal interface during first trimester of pregnancy is one of the leading causes of spontaneous abortion. Previously, we reported differential expression of collectins, soluble pattern recognition molecules involved in immunoregulation, in placental and decidual tissues during spontaneous labor. In the present pilot study, the expression of collectins was analyzed in the inflamed human gestational tissues of spontaneous abortion ('SA') and in 13.5 dpc placental tissues from resorption survived embryos of murine model (CBA/J X DBA/2J). Transcripts of SP-A were significantly down-regulated and SP-D were significantly up-regulated in placental and decidual tissues of 'SA' group compared to that of 'normal' group. Immunostaining for SP-D and MBL proteins was positive in placental and decidual tissues. However, levels of SP-D and MBL proteins were not significantly altered in placental as well as in decidual tissues of 'SA' group in comparison to the 'normal' group. Placental tissues of viable embryos from the abortion prone mouse model showed significantly enhanced expression of mSP-A and mSP-D transcripts at 13.5 day post coitus (dpc) and 14.5 dpc compared to the control group (CBA/J X Balb/c). Mouse collectins were localized in placental tissues (13.5 dpc), with increased staining in murine model compared to control. Human and murine data together indicate that SP-A, SP-D and MBL are synthesised in early gestational tissues, and may contribute to regulation of immune response at the feto-maternal interface during pregnancy.

Acacetin 7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl (1-2) β-D-xylopyranoside Elicits Life-span Extension and Stress Resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans

The advancements in the field of gerontology have unraveled the signaling pathways that regulate life span, suggesting that it might be feasible to modulate aging. To this end, we isolated a novel phytomolecule Acacetin 7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl (1-2) β-D-xylopyranoside (ARX) from Premna integrifolia and evaluated its antiaging effects in Caenorhabditis elegans The spectral data analysis revealed the occurrence of a new compound ARX. Out of the three tested pharmacological doses of ARX, viz. 5, 25, and 50 µM, the 25-µM dose was able to extend life span in C. elegans by more than 39%. The present study suggests that ARX affects bacterial metabolism, which in turn leads to dietary restriction (DR)-like effects in the worms. The effect of ARX on worms with mutations (mev-1, eat-2, sir-2.1, skn-1, daf-16, and hsf-1) indicates that ARX-mediated life-span extension involves mechanisms associated with DR and maintenance of cellular redox homeostasis. This study is the first time report on longevity-promoting activity of ARX in C. elegans mediated by stress and DR-regulating genes. This novel phytomolecule can contribute in designing therapeutics for managing aging and age-related diseases.

Verminoside mediates life span extension and alleviates stress in Caenorhabditis elegans

The discovery of bioactive molecules modulating aging in living organism promotes development of natural therapeutics for curing age-related afflictions. The progression in age-related disorders can be attributed to increment in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress level. To this end, we isolated an iridoid verminoside (VMS) from Stereospermum suaveolens (Roxb.) DC. and evaluated its effect on Caenorhabditis elegans. The present study delineates VMS-mediated alteration of intracellular ROS, oxidative stress, and life span in C. elegans. The different tested doses of VMS (5 μM, 25 μM, and 50 μM) were able to enhance ROS scavenging and extend mean life span in C. elegans. The maximal life span extension was observed in 25 μM VMS, that is, 20.79% (P < 0.0001) followed by 9.84% (P < 0.0001) in 5 μM VMS and 8.54% (P < 0.0001) in 50 μM VMS. VMS was able to alleviate juglone-induced oxidative stress and enhanced thermotolerance in worms. The stress-modulating and ROS-scavenging potential of VMS was validated by increment in mean survival by 29.54% (P < 0.0001) in VMS-treated oxidative stress hypersensitive mev-1 mutant strain. Furthermore, VMS modulates expression of DAF-16 (a FoxO transcription factor) promoting stress resistance and longevity. Altogether, our results suggest that VMS attenuates intracellular ROS and stress (oxidative and thermal) level promoting longevity. The longevity and stress modulation can be attributed to VMS-mediated alterations in daf-16 expression which regulates insulin signaling pathway. This study opens doors for development of phytomolecule-based therapeutics for prolonging life span and managing age-related severe disorders.