SARS-CoV-2 infects cells lining the blood-retinal barrier and induces a hyperinflammatory immune response in the retina via systemic exposure

SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to cause wide-ranging ocular abnormalities and vision impairment in COVID-19 patients. However, there is limited understanding of SARS-CoV-2 in ocular transmission, tropism, and associated pathologies. The presence of viral RNA in corneal/conjunctival tissue and tears, along with the evidence of viral entry receptors on the ocular surface, has led to speculation that the eye may serve as a potential route of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Here, we investigated the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with cells lining the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) and the role of the eye in its transmission and tropism. The results from our study suggest that SARS-CoV-2 ocular exposure does not cause lung infection and moribund illness in K18-hACE2 mice despite the extended presence of viral remnants in various ocular tissues. In contrast, intranasal exposure not only resulted in SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein presence in different ocular tissues but also induces a hyperinflammatory immune response in the retina. Additionally, the long-term exposure to viral S-protein caused microaneurysm, retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) mottling, retinal atrophy, and vein occlusion in mouse eyes. Notably, cells lining the BRB, the outer barrier, RPE, and the inner barrier, retinal vascular endothelium, were highly permissive to SARS-CoV-2 replication. Unexpectedly, primary human corneal epithelial cells were comparatively resistant to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cells lining the BRB showed induced expression of viral entry receptors and increased susceptibility towards SARS-CoV-2-induced cell death. Furthermore, hyperglycemic conditions enhanced the viral entry receptor expression, infectivity, and susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2-induced cell death in the BRB cells, confirming the reported heightened pathological manifestations in comorbid populations. Collectively, our study provides the first evidence of SARS-CoV-2 ocular tropism via cells lining the BRB and that the virus can infect the retina via systemic permeation and induce retinal inflammation.

Biochar influences nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics in two texturally different soils

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are vital for crop growth. However, most agricultural systems have limited inherent ability to supply N and P to crops. Biochars (BCs) are strongly advocated in agrosystems and are known to improve the availability of N and P in crops through different chemical transformations. Herein, a soil-biochar incubation experiment was carried out to investigate the transformations of N and P in two different textured soils, namely clay loam and loamy sand, on mixing with rice straw biochar (RSB) and acacia wood biochar (ACB) at each level (0, 0.5, and 1.0% w/w). Ammonium N (NH4-N) decreased continuously with the increasing incubation period. The ammonium N content disappeared rapidly in both the soils incubated with biochars compared to the unamended soil. RSB increased the nitrate N (NO3-N) content significantly compared to ACB for the entire study period in both texturally divergent soils. The nitrate N content increased with the enhanced biochar addition rate in clay loam soil until 15 days after incubation; however, it was reduced for the biochar addition rate of 1% compared to 0.5% at 30 and 60 days after incubation in loamy sand soil. With ACB, the net increase in nitrate N content with the biochar addition rate of 1% remained higher than the 0.5% rate for 60 days in clay loam and 30 days in loamy sand soil. The phosphorus content remained consistently higher in both the soils amended with two types of biochars till the completion of the experiment.

Phenotypic and genetic characterization of unexplored, potential cattle population of Madhya Pradesh

Bawri or Garri, a non-descript cattle population managed under an extensive system in Madhya Pradesh state of India, was identified and characterized both genetically and phenotypically to check whether or not it can be recognised as a breed. The cattle have white and gray colour and are medium sized with 122.5 ± 7.5 cm and 109.45 ± 0.39 cm height at withers in male and female, respectively. Double-digest restriction site associated DNA (ddRAD) sequencing was employed to identify ascertainment bias free SNPs representing the entire genome cost effectively; resulting in calling 1,156,650 high quality SNPs. Observed homozygosity was 0.76, indicating Bawri as a quite unique population. However, the inbreeding coefficient was 0.025, indicating lack of selection. SNPs found here can be used in GWAS and genetic evaluation programs. Considering the uniqueness of Bawri cattle, it can be registered as a breed for its better genetic management.

Genome-wide association mapping for field spot blotch resistance in South Asian spring wheat genotypes

Spot blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana ((Sacc.) Shoemaker) (teleomorph: Cochliobolus sativus [Ito and Kuribayashi] Drechsler ex Dastur) is an economically important disease of warm and humid regions. The present study focused on identifying resistant genotypes and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with spot blotch resistance in a panel of 174 bread spring wheat lines using field screening and genome-wide association mapping strategies. Field experiments were conducted in Agua Fria, Mexico, during the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 cropping seasons. A wide range of phenotypic variation was observed among genotypes tested during both years. Twenty SNP markers showed significant association with spot blotch resistance on 15 chromosomes, namely, 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 2D, 3A, 3B, 4B, 4D, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B. Of these, two consistently significant SNPs on 5A, TA003225-0566 and TA003225-1427, may represent a new resistance quantitative trait loci. Further, in the proximity of Tsn1 on 5B, AX-94435238 was the most stable and consistent in both years. The identified genomic regions could be deployed to develop spot blotch-resistant genotypes, particularly in the spot blotch-vulnerable wheat growing areas.

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy in difficult gallbladder: Our experience in a tertiary care center

Backgrounds/Aims

Open cholecystectomy is becoming obsolete and laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the treatment of choice in gallstone diseases. Difficult gallbladders are encountered whenever there is a frozen calot's triangle, obliterated cystic plate, or both. Rather than converting to open procedure, there has been a growing preference for laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSC) during difficult gallbladders. This study aimed to assess the advantages, indications, and viability of LSC in difficult gallbladders.

Methods

The study included patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy in NIMS Hospital, Jaipur, from January 2021 to January 2023. Data of the patients who underwent LSC for difficult gallbladders included demographics, comorbidities, operative time, conversion to open cholecystectomy, length of hospital stay, and complications. LSC was classified into three types depending on the part of the gallbladder remnant.

Results

A total of 728 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Among them, 41 patients (5.6%) were attempted for LSC. However, one patient was converted to an open procedure and the rest 40 underwent LSC. LSC was divided into 3 types, 4 patients underwent LSC type I, 34 patients underwent type II, and 2 patients type III. The average operating time and postoperative length of hospital stay were 86.2 minutes and 2.1 days, respectively. Two patients had surgical site infection. No patient had a bile leak and none required intensive care unit care.

Conclusions

LSC is a safe and feasible option for use in difficult gallbladders.

Novel technique for laparoscopic common bile duct exploration using flexible videobronchoscope to study on clinical outcomes of single-stage (laparoscopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic common bile duct exploration) versus dual-stage (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy) for cholelithiasis with choledocholithiasis - Prospective study in a tertiary care centre (BRACE study - BRonchoscope Assisted Common bile duct Exploration Study)

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to study on clinical outcomes of single-stage (laparoscopic cholecystectomy [LC] and laparoscopic common bile duct [CBD] exploration using flexible videobronchoscope) versus dual-stage (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy) for cholelithiasis with choledocholithiasis-prospective study in a tertiary care centre (BRACE STUDY-Bronchoscope-Assisted CBD Exploration [CBDE] Study).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between April 2022 and April 2023, patients who underwent LC with laparoscopic CBDE and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) followed by LC participated in this single-centre prospective research. The Institute Ethics Committee granted its approval after receiving an ethical review. The primary endpoint of the proposed research was the removal of the gall bladder and CBD stones. The secondary outcomes studied were complications using the Clavien-Dindo score, cost-effectiveness, patient satisfaction score and post-procedure duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

A total of 168 patients were included in the study. The success rate of LC with laparoscopic CBD exploration using a flexible videobronchoscope (Group 1) was significantly higher as compared to ERCP f/b LC (Group 2) (96.4% vs. 84.5%, P value = 0.02). Out of the 84 patients in Group 1, direct choledochotomies were performed on 83 of them. Group 1 had a considerably shorter hospital stay (4.6 ± 2.4 vs. 5.3 ± 6.2 days; P = 0.03). Both the cost (P = 0.002) and the number of procedures per patient (P < 0.001) were considerably higher in Group 2. Major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 3 and above) were significantly higher in Group 2 (P = 0.04). Patient satisfaction in Group 1 scored more favourably than those in Group 2 (2.26 ± 0.3 vs. 1.92 ± 0.7; P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

For concurrent gall bladder and CBD stones, single-stage management by LCBDE using a flexible videobronchoscope has a significantly better primary outcome and lower major complications than dual-stage management. The single-stage strategy also has advantages in terms of a shorter hospital stay, the need for fewer procedures, cost efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Rapid mini-chromosome divergence among fungal isolates causing wheat blast outbreaks in Bangladesh and Zambia

The fungal pathogen, Magnaporthe oryzae Triticum pathotype, causing wheat blast disease was first identified in South America and recently spread across continents to South Asia and Africa. Here, we studied the genetic relationship among isolates found on the three continents. Magnaporthe oryzae strains closely related to a South American field isolate B71 were found to have caused the wheat blast outbreaks in South Asia and Africa. Genomic variation among isolates from the three continents was examined using an improved B71 reference genome and whole-genome sequences. We found strong evidence to support that the outbreaks in Bangladesh and Zambia were caused by the introductions of genetically separated isolates, although they were all close to B71 and, therefore, collectively referred to as the B71 branch. In addition, B71 branch strains carried at least one supernumerary mini-chromosome. Genome assembly of a Zambian strain revealed that its mini-chromosome was similar to the B71 mini-chromosome but with a high level of structural variation. Our findings show that while core genomes of the multiple introductions are highly similar, the mini-chromosomes have undergone marked diversification. The maintenance of the mini-chromosome and rapid genomic changes suggest the mini-chromosomes may serve important virulence or niche adaptation roles under diverse environmental conditions.

Perioperative Treatment Strategies in EGFR-Mutant Early-Stage NSCLC: Current Evidence and Future Challenges

Treatment with 3 years of adjuvant osimertinib is considered a new standard in patients with completely resected stage I to IIIA NSCLC harboring a common sensitizing EGFR mutation. This therapeutic approach significantly prolonged the disease-free survival and the overall survival versus placebo and revealed a significant role in preventing the occurrence of brain metastases. However, many unanswered questions remain, including the optimal duration of this therapy, whether all patients benefit from adjuvant osimertinib, and the role of adjuvant chemotherapy in this population. Indeed, there is a renewed interest in neoadjuvant strategies with targeted therapies in resectable NSCLC harboring oncogenic drivers. In light of these considerations, we discuss the past and current treatment options, and the clinical challenges that should be addressed to optimize the treatment outcomes in this patient population.

Long-term application of agronomic management strategies effects on soil organic carbon, energy budgeting, and carbon footprint under rice-wheat cropping system

In the plains of western North India, traditional rice and wheat cropping systems (RWCS) consume a significant amount of energy and carbon. In order to assess the long-term energy budgets, ecological footprint, and greenhouse gas (GHG) pollutants from RWCS with residual management techniques, field research was conducted which consisted of fourteen treatments that combined various tillage techniques, fertilization methods, and whether or not straw return was present in randomized block design. By altering the formation of aggregates and the distribution of carbon within them, tillage techniques can affect the dynamics of organic carbon in soil and soil microbial activity. The stability of large macro-aggregates (> 2 mm), small macro-aggregates (2.0-2.25 mm), and micro-aggregates in the topsoil were improved by 35.18%, 33.52%, and 25.10%, respectively, over conventional tillage (0-20 cm) using tillage strategies for conservation methods (no-till in conjunction with straw return and organic fertilizers). The subsoil (20-40 cm) displayed the same pattern. In contrast to conventional tilling with no straw returns, macro-aggregates of all sizes and micro-aggregates increased by 24.52%, 28.48%, and 18.12%, respectively, when conservation tillage with organic and chemical fertilizers was used. The straw return (aggregate-associated C) also resulted in a significant increase in aggregate-associated carbon. When zero tillage was paired with straw return, chemical, and organic fertilizers, the topsoil's overall aggregate-associated C across all aggregate proportions increased. Conversely, conventional tillage, in contrast to conservation tillage, included straw return as well as chemical and organic fertilizers and had high aggregate-associated C in the subsurface. This study finds that tillage techniques could change the dynamics of microbial biomass in soils and organic soil carbon by altering the aggregate and distribution of C therein.

Minimal Residual Disease in the Management of B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Systematic Review of Studies from Indian Settings

Minimal residual disease (MRD) has become an essential tool in the management of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and aids in tailoring treatment strategies to suit specific patient needs. Although much progress has been made in this area, there is limited data on the use of MRD in the Indian context. Our objective was to identify relevant literature that discusses the utility of MRD in the management of B-cell ALL in adolescents and young adults (AYA) and adults in Indian settings. A systematic search and screening of articles were performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary data source was PubMed followed by Google Scholar for articles and conference proceedings. Of the 254 records screened, 24 records were retained for analysis. MRD monitoring had a significant role in the management of AYA/adult B-cell ALL patients. Variability of results was observed across these studies with respect to methods, techniques, and use. However, these studies evidenced and validated the importance of MRD assessment in risk-adapted management of B-cell ALL and highlighted the need for optimization. The advances in MRD diagnostics and applications are yet to be tested and adopted in Indian settings. Hence, there is a need for in-depth research to develop and optimize approaches for calibrating country-specific management strategies. The potential role of MRD assessments in anticipating relapse or treatment failures warrants more attention for the preemptive positioning of novel strategies involving immunotherapies.

Viral infections and pathogenesis of glaucoma: a comprehensive review

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, caused by the gradual degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and their axons. While glaucoma is primarily considered a genetic and age-related disease, some inflammatory conditions, such as uveitis and viral-induced anterior segment inflammation, cause secondary or uveitic glaucoma. Viruses are predominant ocular pathogens and can impose both acute and chronic pathological insults to the human eye. Many viruses, including herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, Ebola virus, and, more recently, Zika virus (ZIKV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), have been associated with sequela of either primary or secondary glaucoma. Epidemiological and clinical studies suggest the association between these viruses and subsequent glaucoma development. Despite this, the ocular manifestation and sequela of viral infections are not well understood. In fact, the association of viruses with glaucoma is considered relatively uncommon in part due to underreporting and/or lack of long-term follow-up studies. In recent years, literature on the pathological spectrum of emerging viral infections, such as ZIKV and SARS-CoV-2, has strengthened this proposition and renewed research activity in this area. Clinical studies from endemic regions as well as laboratory and preclinical investigations demonstrate a strong link between an infectious trigger and development of glaucomatous pathology. In this article, we review the current understanding of the field with a particular focus on viruses and their association with the pathogenesis of glaucoma.

Forecasting global plastic production and microplastic emission using advanced optimised discrete grey model

Plastic pollution has become a prominent and pressing environmental concern within the realm of pollution. In recent times, microplastics have entered our ecosystem, especially in freshwater. In the contemporary global landscape, there exists a mounting apprehension surrounding the manifold environmental and public health issues that have emerged as a result of the substantial accumulation of microplastics. The objective of the current study is to employ an enhanced grey prediction model in order to forecast global plastic production and microplastic emissions. This study compared the accuracy level of the four grey prediction models, namely, EGM (1,1, α, θ), DGM (1,1), EGM (1,1), and DGM (1,1, α) models, to evaluate the accuracy levels. As per the estimation of the study, DGM (1,1, α) was found to be more suitable with higher accuracy levels to predict microplastic emission. The EGM (1,1, α, θ) model has slightly better accuracy than the DGM (1,1, α) model in predicting global plastic production. Various accuracy measurement tools (MAPE and RMSE) were used to determine the model's efficiency. There has been a gradual growth in both plastic production and microplastic emission. The current study using the DGM (1,1, α) model predicted that microplastic emission would be 1,084,018 by 2030. The present study aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers in formulating effective strategies to address the complex issues arising from the release of microplastics into the environment and the continuous production of plastic materials.

Efficacy of different respiratory supports to prevent hypoxia during flexible bronchoscopy in patients of COPD: a triple-arm, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease (COPD) undergo bronchoscopy for various reasons, and are at relatively higher risk of complications. This study evaluated the efficacy of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and high-flow-oxygen-therapy (HFOT) compared with conventional-oxygen-therapy (COT) in patients with COPD undergoing bronchoscopy, to prevent hypoxia.

METHODS

It was a triple-arm, open-label, randomised controlled trial. Ninety patients with COPD were randomly assigned into three intervention arms in 1:1:1 ratio. The incidence of hypoxia, lowest recorded oxygen saturation measured by plethysmography (SpO2), ECG, patient vitals and comfort levels were assessed.

RESULTS

Mean age of the study population was 61.71±7.5 years. Out of 90 cases enrolled, 51, 34 and 5 were moderate, severe and very-severe COPD, respectively, as per GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) classification. Rest of the baseline characteristics were similar. SpO2 during flexible bronchoscopy (FB) was lowest in COT group (COT: 87.03±5.7% vs HFOT: 95.57±5.0% vs NIV: 97.40±1.6%, p<0.001). Secondary objectives were similar except respiratory-rate (breaths-per-minute) which was highest in COT group (COT: 20.23±3.1 vs HFOT: 18.57±4.1 vs NIV: 16.80±1.9, p<0.001). Whereas post FB partial of oxygen in arterial blood was highest in NIV group (NIV: 84.27±21.6 mm Hg vs HFOT: 69.03±13.6 mm Hg vs COT: 69.30±11.9 mm Hg, p<0.001). Post FB partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood was similar in the three arms. Operator's ease-of-performing-procedure was least in the NIV group as assessed with Visual Analogue Scale (p<0.01). A higher number of NIV group participants reported nasal pain as compared with the other two arms (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

NIV and HFOT are superior to COT in preventing hypoxia during bronchoscopy, but NIV is associated with poor patient-tolerance and inferior operator's ease of doing procedure.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CTRI/2021/03/032190.

Dissecting genomic regions and underlying sheath blight resistance traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.) using a genome-wide association study

The productivity of rice is greatly affected by the infection of the plant pathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani, which causes a significant grain yield reduction globally. There exist a limited number of rice accessions that are available to develop sheath blight resistance (ShB). Our objective was to identify a good source of the ShB resistance, understand the heritability, and trait interactions, and identify the genomic regions for ShB resistance traits by genome-wide association studies (GWAS). In the present study, a set of 330 traditional landraces and improved rice varieties were evaluated for ShB resistance and created a core panel of 192 accessions used in the GWAS. This panel provides a more considerable amount of genetic variance and found a significant phenotypic variation among the panel of rice accessions for all the agro-morphological and disease-resistance traits over the seasons. The infection rate of ShB and disease reaction were calculated as percent disease index (PDI) and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC). The correlation analysis showed a significant positive association between PDIs and AUPDC and a negative association between PDI and plant height, flag leaf length, and grain yield. The panel was genotyped with 133 SSR microsatellite markers, resulting in a genome coverage of 314.83 Mb, and the average distance between markers is 2.53 Mb. By employing GLM and MLM (Q + K) models, 30 marker-trait associations (MTAs) were identified with targeted traits over the seasons. Among these QTLs, eight were found to be novel and located on 2, 4, 8, 10, and 12 chromosomes, which explained the phenotypic variation ranging from 5% to 15%. With the GWAS approach, six candidate genes were identified. Os05t0566400, Os08t0155900, and Os09t0567300 were found to be associated with defense mechanisms against ShB. These findings provided insights into the novel donors of IC283139, IC 277248, Sivappuchithirai Kar, and Bowalia. The promising genomic regions on 10 of 12 chromosomes associated with ShB would be useful in developing rice varieties with durable disease resistance.

Multi-environment evaluation of rice genotypes: impact of weather and culm biochemical parameters against sheath blight infection

Introduction

Sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani is one of the major diseases of rice, causing widespread crop losses. The use of semi-dwarf rice varieties in the ongoing nutrient-intensive rice cultivation system has further accentuated the incidence of the disease. An ideal solution to this problem would be identifying a stable sheath blight-tolerant genotype.

Material and methods

A multi-environment evaluation of 32 rice genotypes against sheath blight infection was conducted over six seasons across two locations (Agricultural Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (28.18° N, 38.03° E, and 75.5 masl), for four years during the wet seasons (kharif) from 2015 to 2018 and two seasons at the National Rice Research Institute (20°27'09" N, 85°55'57" E, 26 masl), Cuttack, Odisha, during the dry season (rabi) of 2019 and the kharif of 2019, including susceptible and resistant check. Percent disease index data were collected over 4 weeks (on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th day after infection), along with data on other morphological and physiological traits.

Result and discussion

The resistant genotypes across seasons were the ones with a higher hemicellulose content (13.93-14.64) and lower nitrogen content (1.10- 1.31) compared with the susceptible check Tapaswini (G32) (hemicellulose 12.96, nitrogen 1.38), which might explain the resistant reaction. Three different stability models-additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI), genotype + genotype x environment (GGE) biplot, and multi-trait stability index (MTSI)-were then used to identify the stable resistant genotypes across six seasons. The results obtained with all three models had common genotypes highlighted as stable and having a low area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) values. The ideal stable genotypes with low disease incidence were IC 283139 (G19), Tetep (G28), IC 260917 (G4), and IC 277274 (G10), with AUDPC values of 658.91, 607.46, 479.69, and 547.94, respectively. Weather parameters such as temperature, rainfall, sunshine hours, and relative humidity were also noted daily. Relative humidity was positively correlated with the percent disease index.

Assessment of Indian wheat germplasm for Septoria nodorum blotch and tan spot reveals new QTLs conferring resistance along with recessive alleles of Tsn1 and Snn3

The leaf blight diseases, Septoria nodorum blotch (SNB), and tan spot (TS) are emerging due to changing climatic conditions in the northern parts of India. We screened 296 bread wheat cultivars released in India over the past 20 years for seedling resistance against SNB (three experiments) and TS (two experiments). According to a genome-wide association study, six QTLs on chromosome arms 1BL, 2AS, 5BL, and 6BL were particularly significant for SNB across all three years, of which Q.CIM.snb.1BL, Q.CIM.snb.2AS1, Q.CIM.snb.2AS.2, and Q.CIM.snb.6BL appeared novel. In contrast, those on 5BS and 5BL may correspond to Snn3 and Tsn1, respectively. The allelic combination of tsn1/snn3 conferred resistance to SNB, whereas that of Tsn1/Snn3 conferred high susceptibility. As for TS, Tsn1 was the only stably significant locus identified in this panel. Several varieties like PBW 771, DBW 277, and HD 3319, were identified as highly resistant to both diseases that can be used in future wheat improvement programs as resistant donors.

Heterologous expression and characterization of ToxA1 haplotype from India and its interaction with Tsn1 for spot blotch susceptibility in spring wheat

BACKGROUND

ToxA, a necrotrophic effector protein, is present in the genome of fungal species like Parastagnospora nodorum, Pyrenophora tritici-repentis and Bipolaris sorokiniana. Tsn1 is the sensitivity gene in the host whose presence indicates more susceptibility to ToxA carrying pathogen, and ToxA-Tsn1 interaction follows an inverse gene-for-gene relationship.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The present study involved cloning and expressing the ToxA1 haplotype from B. sorokiniana. It was found that the amplicon exhibited an expected product size of 471 bp. Sequence analysis of the ToxA1 nucleotide sequence revealed the highest identity, 99.79%, with P. tritici-repentis. The protein expression analysis showed peak expression at 16.5 kDa. Phylogenetic analysis of the ToxA1 sequence from all the Bipolaris isolates formed an independent clade along with P. tritici-repentis and diverged from P. nodorum. ToxA-Tsn1 interaction was studied in 18 wheat genotypes (11 Tsn1 and 7 tsn1) at both seedling and adult stages, validating the inverse gene-for-gene relationship, as the toxin activity was highest in the K68 genotype (Tsn1) and lowest in WAMI280 (tsn1).

CONCLUSION

The study indicates that the haplotype ToxA1 is prevailing in the Indian population of B. sorokiniana. It would be desirable for wheat breeders to select genotypes with tsn1 locus for making wheat resistant to spot blotch.

Exergo-enviro-economic and yearly productivity analyses of conical passive solar still for sustainable solar distillation

This paper focuses on exergo-enviro-economic and yearly productivity analyses for conical passive solar still having the potential to fulfil the sustainable development goal of the United Nations. A new approach for thermal modelling of conical passive solar still has been carried out with experimental validation in the present work, wherein different weather conditions have been considered for the analysis of the proposed system. The carried out work has been done for each month of the year. In further methodology, the computational code in MATLAB has been used for the computation of hourly freshwater production, exergy, and energy followed by the estimation of their annual values. Thereafter, exergo-enviro-economic parameters, yearly productivity, payback period, and freshwater cost have been estimated, and the obtained results have been compared with the earlier published research. Concludingly, the exergo-economic parameter, enviro-economic parameter, and yearly productivity for the proposed system have been found higher by 44.25%, 25.68%, and 44.07%, respectively, than the conventional solar still. The comparative freshwater cost is 13.56% less than the conventional solar still for 0.025 m water depth. Additionally, the payback period for the proposed system will remain at 2.75 years, which is 13.82% less in comparison to the conventional solar still considering a 2% interest rate.

Feasibility and outcomes of Desarda vs Lichtenstein hernioplasty by local anesthesia for inguinal hernia: a noninferiority randomized clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

The Desarda autologous tissue repair is comparable to the Lichtenstein hernioplasty for inguinal hernia regarding recurrence, chronic groin pain, and return to work activities. This study was designed to establish the outcomes of Desarda's repair versus Lichtenstein's hernioplasty concerning post-operative recovery to normal gait and its feasibility under local anesthesia (LA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a single-center, prospective, double-blinded, non-inferiority, randomized trial. Patients undergoing open hernia repair for primary inguinal hernia were included. Patients were randomly assigned and followed up for 2 years. The primary endpoint was the time to return to normal gait post-surgery with comfort (non-inferiority margin fixed as 0.5 days). The secondary outcomes studied were post-operative pain score, the time required to return to work (all previously performed activities), and surgical-site occurrences (SSO).

RESULTS

One hundred ten eligible patients were randomly assigned [56 patients (50.9%) in the Desarda group and 54 patients (49.1%) in the Lichtenstein group]. All the procedures were safely performed under LA. The median (interquartile range) time for resuming gait post-surgery with comfort was 5 days in the Desarda vs 4 days in Lichtenstein's arm (P = 0.16), thereby failing to demonstrate non-inferiority of Desarda against Lichtenstein hernioplasty. However, there were no significant differences in days to return to work, SSO, chronic groin pain, and recurrence within two years of surgery.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study could not demonstrate the non-inferiority of the Desarda repair versus Lichtenstein hernioplasty regarding the time taken to return to normal gait. Comparing the days to return to work, pain score, SSO, and chronic groin pain, including recurrence rate, Desarda repair faired equally with Lichtenstein hernioplasty, thereby highlighting its feasibility and efficacy under LA.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03512366.

Role of Janus Kinase inhibitors in the management of pulmonary involvement due to Long COVID-19 disease: A case control study

OBJECTIVES

Ongoing symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (OSC) is defined as persistent symptoms beyond 4 weeks of acute illness. OSC leads to prolonged hospitalization and oxygen dependence. We aimed to find the outcome of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) as a steroid-sparing agent to treat OSC.

METHODS

In this single-center case-controlled study comparing JAKi and corticosteroids in OSC cases, data of 41 cases out of 86 were included - 21 in the JAKi group and 20 in the corticosteroid group from 4 weeks of acute illness to the next 4 weeks. Clinical parameters and inflammatory markers were recorded. The primary outcome was to compare the proportion of patients who were able to maintain oxygen saturation ≥95% with any oxygen supplementation in the two groups.

RESULTS

The baseline clinical and demographic characteristics were similar in the two groups. The age was 53.65 ± 9.8 years and 51.48 ± 14.0 years in the corticosteroid group and JAKi group, respectively. At the baseline, 85% of patients in the corticosteroid group and 85.8% in the JAKi group were on oxygen support. The most common symptom in both groups was breathlessness followed by cough. Twenty percent of patients in the JAKi group received baricitinib and the remaining were given tofacitinib. At the time of follow-up, the majority of cases had a significant reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) and D-dimer; however, the change in CRP and D-dimer was similar in both groups. The number of patients off oxygen support at 4 weeks was higher in the JAKi group (85% in the corticosteroid group vs. 95.2% in the JAKi group, P = 0.269), and the median time to liberation from oxygen support was significantly lower in JAKi group (19 days in corticosteroid group vs. 9 days in JAKi group, P < 0.001). The frequency of any adverse event was also higher in the corticosteroid group (70% vs. 23.8%, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

JAKi can be used as immunomodulatory drugs in hypoxic OSC cases having evidence of ongoing inflammation.

Genomic Prediction of Resistance to Tan Spot, Spot Blotch and Septoria Nodorum Blotch in Synthetic Hexaploid Wheat

Genomic prediction combines molecular and phenotypic data in a training population to predict the breeding values of individuals that have only been genotyped. The use of genomic information in breeding programs helps to increase the frequency of favorable alleles in the populations of interest. This study evaluated the performance of BLUP (Best Linear Unbiased Prediction) in predicting resistance to tan spot, spot blotch and Septoria nodorum blotch in synthetic hexaploid wheat. BLUP was implemented in single-trait and multi-trait models with three variations: (1) the pedigree relationship matrix (A-BLUP), (2) the genomic relationship matrix (G-BLUP), and (3) a combination of the two matrices (A+G BLUP). In all three diseases, the A-BLUP model had a lower performance, and the G-BLUP and A+G BLUP were statistically similar (p ≥ 0.05). The prediction accuracy with the single trait was statistically similar (p ≥ 0.05) to the multi-trait accuracy, possibly due to the low correlation of severity between the diseases.

SnapEnsemFS: a snapshot ensembling-based deep feature selection model for colorectal cancer histological analysis

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed annually, and the second leading cause of death due to cancer. Early diagnosis of this ailment is vital for preventing the tumours to spread and plan treatment to possibly eradicate the disease. However, population-wide screening is stunted by the requirement of medical professionals to analyse histological slides manually. Thus, an automated computer-aided detection (CAD) framework based on deep learning is proposed in this research that uses histological slide images for predictions. Ensemble learning is a popular strategy for fusing the salient properties of several models to make the final predictions. However, such frameworks are computationally costly since it requires the training of multiple base learners. Instead, in this study, we adopt a snapshot ensemble method, wherein, instead of the traditional method of fusing decision scores from the snapshots of a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model, we extract deep features from the penultimate layer of the CNN model. Since the deep features are extracted from the same CNN model but for different learning environments, there may be redundancy in the feature set. To alleviate this, the features are fed into Particle Swarm Optimization, a popular meta-heuristic, for dimensionality reduction of the feature space and better classification. Upon evaluation on a publicly available colorectal cancer histology dataset using a five-fold cross-validation scheme, the proposed method obtains a highest accuracy of 97.60% and F1-Score of 97.61%, outperforming existing state-of-the-art methods on the same dataset. Further, qualitative investigation of class activation maps provide visual explainability to medical practitioners, as well as justifies the use of the CAD framework in screening of colorectal histology. Our source codes are publicly accessible at: https://github.com/soumitri2001/SnapEnsemFS .

Utility and timing of the respiratory rate-oxygenation index in the prediction of high-flow oxygen therapy failure in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure of infective etiology: a prospective observational study

During and following the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has witnessed a surge in high-flow oxygen therapy (HFOT) use. The ability to provide high oxygenation levels with remarkable comfort levels has been the grounds for the same. Despite the advantages, delays in intubation leading to poor overall outcomes have been noticed in subgroups of patients on HFOT. The respiratory rate-oxygenation (ROX) index has been proposed to be a useful indicator to predict HFOT success. In this study, we have examined the utility of the ROX index prospectively in cases of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) due to infective etiologies. A total of 70 participants were screened, and 55 were recruited for the study. The majority of participants were males (56.4%), with diabetes mellitus being the most common comorbidity (29.1%). The mean age of the study subjects was 46.27±15.6 years. COVID-19 (70.9%) was the most common etiology for AHRF, followed by scrub typhus (21.8%). 19 (34.5%) experienced HFOT failure, and 9 (16.4%) subjects died during the study period. Demographic characteristics did not differ between either of the two groups (HFOT success versus failure and survived group versus expired group). The ROX index was significantly different between the HFOT success versus failure group at baseline, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours. The best cut-offs of the ROX index at baseline and 2 hours were 4.4 (sensitivity 91.7%, specificity 86.7%) and 4.3 (sensitivity 94.4% and specificity 86.7%), respectively. The ROX index was found to be an efficient tool in predicting HFOT failure in cases of AHRF with infective etiology.

Genomic surveillance uncovers a pandemic clonal lineage of the wheat blast fungus

Wheat, one of the most important food crops, is threatened by a blast disease pandemic. Here, we show that a clonal lineage of the wheat blast fungus recently spread to Asia and Africa following two independent introductions from South America. Through a combination of genome analyses and laboratory experiments, we show that the decade-old blast pandemic lineage can be controlled by the Rmg8 disease resistance gene and is sensitive to strobilurin fungicides. However, we also highlight the potential of the pandemic clone to evolve fungicide-insensitive variants and sexually recombine with African lineages. This underscores the urgent need for genomic surveillance to track and mitigate the spread of wheat blast outside of South America and to guide preemptive wheat breeding for blast resistance.

Genomic surveillance uncovers a pandemic clonal lineage of the wheat blast fungus

Wheat, one of the most important food crops, is threatened by a blast disease pandemic. Here, we show that a clonal lineage of the wheat blast fungus recently spread to Asia and Africa following two independent introductions from South America. Through a combination of genome analyses and laboratory experiments, we show that the decade-old blast pandemic lineage can be controlled by the Rmg8 disease resistance gene and is sensitive to strobilurin fungicides. However, we also highlight the potential of the pandemic clone to evolve fungicide-insensitive variants and sexually recombine with African lineages. This underscores the urgent need for genomic surveillance to track and mitigate the spread of wheat blast outside of South America and to guide preemptive wheat breeding for blast resistance.

Prediction of surface temperature and CO2 emission of leading emitters using grey model EGM (1,1, α, θ)

The current study projects the increase in surface temperature and CO₂ emissions using the EGM (1,1, α, θ) grey model for the six most significant CO₂ contributing countries, namely China, the USA, India, Russia, Japan, and Germany. The study uses time series data for surface temperature (in degree celsius) from 2010 to 2020, and CO₂ emission (metric tons per capita) data from 2009 to 2019. The empirical results show a downward trend in CO₂ emissions from Japan, Germany, the USA, and Russia by 2028. However, in the same time period, CO₂ emissions are expected to increase for India and remain nearly constant for China. This study indicates an increase in surface temperature at a significant rate in all the 6 countries: by 6.70 °C for China, 7.52 °C for Germany, 2.95 °C for India, 2.66 °C for Japan, 3.61 °C for Russia, and 13.48 °C for the USA by the end of 2028. The study compares the EGM (1,1, α, θ) grey model with the general EGM (1,1) grey model and finds that the EGM (1,1, α, θ) model performs better in both in-sample and out-of-sample forecasting. The paper also puts forward policy suggestions to mitigate, manage, and reduce increases in surface temperature as well as CO₂ emissions.

Dynamic assessment of oropharynx with ultrasonography as a screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea

Ultrasonography is an easily available and portable tool to assess the dynamic changes in the upper airway and surrounding soft tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of oropharynx ultrasonography as a screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study sequentially enrolled overweight individuals (body mass index >25 kg/m² ) and subjected them to OSA screening tools (Berlin questionnaire, Epworth Sleepiness Scale and STOP-Bang scores), ultrasonography of the oropharynx followed by overnight polysomnography. A total of 30 healthy individuals were also recruited as controls. Detailed dynamic and static ultrasonography measurements of the oropharynx and surrounding tissue were done. The diagnostic ability of various ultrasonography parameters to detect OSA was determined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. A total of 63 subjects were enrolled, with 33 in the OSA group and 30 in non-OSA overweight group. All baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups. Except for the dynamic measurements of oropharynx (Retropalatal% change-inspiration, retropalatal% change-Muller manoeuvre, retroglossal% change-inspiration, and retroglossal% change-Muller manoeuvre) all other parameters were similar in the OSA and non-OSA overweight subjects. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was highest for retropalatal% change-inspiration: 0.989, followed by retropalatal% change-Muller manoeuvre: 0.988. Both were also significant predictors of OSA with odds ratios of 0.338 (p = 0.003; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.164-0.696) and 0.346 (p = 0.018; 95% CI 0.143-0.837), respectively. Ultrasonography provides a near complete picture of the dynamic changes and collapsibility of the oropharynx and can be an effective tool in screening for OSA.

Quasi-static indentation damage mechanics of PU foam core reinforced with fly ash particulate

The fly ash (FA) particulates are used in this study to reinforce the polyurethane foam (PUF) core. The FA particles inclusion improves the mechanical performance of the PUF core under compression by increasing its modulus of elasticity. Low-velocity impacts have damage dynamics that are pretty similar to quasi-static indentation. Consequently, the indentation resistance capability of the PUF core is investigated for three types of indenter nose tips with varied FA wt. Percentages (flat-circular, hemispherical, and conical). The results reveal that the reinforced foam core’s resistance varies with reinforcement percentage under indentation. However, FA reinforcement to PUF does not necessarily improve indentation resistance. The damage mechanism of the PUF core under indentation has been evaluated for each type of indenter. The interaction of crushing, shear, and tear of the damaged surface with the change in indenter nose tip has been explained with 0–20% variation of FA particles. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images are taken for the analysis of the damaged PUF core cross-section at the indented location. Earlier mechanical findings of the scatter in deformation behavior with the indenter nose tip geometry are substantiated by the SEM studies.

Energy decomposition and waterswapping analysis to investigate the SNP associated DPD mediated 5-FU resistance

5-fluorouracil is an essential component of systemic chemotherapy for colon, breast, head, and neck cancer patients. However, tumoral overexpression of the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase has rendered 5-FU clinically ineffective by inactivating it to 5'-6'-dihydro fluorouracil. The responses to 5-FU in terms of efficacy and toxicity greatly differ depending upon the population group, because of variability in the DPD activity levels. In the current study, key active site amino acids involved in the 5-FU inactivation were investigated by modelling the 3D structure of human DPD in a complex with 5-FU. The identified amino acids were analyzed for their possible missense mutations available in dbSNP database. Out of 12 missense SNPs, four were validated either by sequencing in the 1000 Genomes project or frequency/genotype data. The recorded validated missense SNPs were further considered to analyze the effect of their respective alterations on 5-FU binding. Overall findings suggested that population bearing the Glu611Val DPD mutation (rs762523739) is highly vulnerable to 5-FU resistance. From the docking, electrostatic complementarity, dynamics, and energy decomposition analyses it was found that the above mutation showed superior scores than the wild DPD -5FU complex. Therefore, prescribing prodrug NUC-3373 or DPD inhibitors (Gimeracil/3-Cyano-2,6-Dihydroxypyridines) as adjuvant therapy may overcome the 5-FU resistance.

Forecasting of non-renewable and renewable energy production in India using optimized discrete grey model

Renewable energy delivers reliable power supplies and fuel diversification, enhancing energy security and lowering fuel spill risk. Renewable energy also helps conserve the nation's natural resources. Solar and other renewable energy sources have become increasingly prominent in recent years. India has achieved the 20 GW capacity solar energy production target before 2022. It is presently producing the lowest-cost solar power at the global level. Thermal energy has dominated the energy market. Countries have decided on energy generation from renewable sources and adopting green energy. This study forecasted non-renewable and renewable energy from multiple sources (hydropower, solar, wind and bioenergy) using grey forecasting model DGM (1,1,α). The comparative analyses with the classical models DGM (1,1) and EGM (1,1) revealed the superiority of the DGM (1,1,α). We also used CAGR for 2009-2019 to compare the actual and predicted data growth rate. The results show that non-renewable and renewable energy production is expected to increase. However, renewable energy generation wind sources continue to increase faster than hydropower, solar and bioenergy.

Massive Subcutaneous Emphysema and Pneumothorax in a Case of Attacked by a Domesticated Bull - An Autopsy Based Diagnosis

Subcutaneous emphysema is a condition when air or gas gets trapped within the subcutaneous layer. It is characterised by crackling feeling on palpation of the skin known as subcutaneous crepitation which is described as touching rice krispies. A 70 years male from hilly region of Nepal with agricultural background suffered multiple injuries sustained due to an attack by domesticated bull in his house. Upon the incident the injured male was taken to hospital, where he was declared "Brought Dead" by the Emergency Department of Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital. His body was brought for autopsy in Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology of Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences. On complete autopsy, massive subcutaneous emphysema and pneumothorax was demonstrated. The details of finding are discussed in detail as follows.

Management of B-cell lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia: expert opinion from an Indian panel via Delphi consensus method

Introduction

Currently, there are no guidelines for the management of B-cell lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) from an Indian perspective. The diagnostic workup, monitoring, and treatment of B-ALL vary among different physicians and institutes.

Objective

To develop evidence-based practical consensus recommendations for the management of B-ALL in Indian settings.

Methods

Modified Delphi consensus methodology was considered to arrive at a consensus. An expert scientific committee of 15 experts from India constituted the panel. Clinically relevant questions belonging to three major domains were drafted for presentation and discussion: (i) diagnosis and risk assignment; (ii) frontline treatment; and (iii) choice of therapy (optimal vs. real-world practice) in relapsed/refractory (R/R) settings. The questionnaire was shared with the panel members through an online survey platform. The level of consensus was categorized into high (≥ 80%), moderate (60%-79%), and no consensus (< 60%). The process involved 2 rounds of discussion and 3 rounds of Delphi survey. The questions that received near or no consensus were discussed during virtual meetings (Delphi rounds 1 and 2). The final draft of the consensus was emailed to the panel for final review.

Results

Experts recommended morphologic assessment of peripheral blood or bone marrow, flow cytometric immunophenotyping, and conventional cytogenetic analysis in the initial diagnostic workup. Berlin-Frankfurt-Münster (BFM)-based protocol is the preferred frontline therapy in pediatric and adolescent and young adult patients with B-ALL. BFM/German Multicenter Study Group for Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia-based regimen is suggested in adult patients with B-ALL. Immunotherapy (blinatumomab or inotuzumab ozogamicin) followed by allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is the optimal choice of therapy that would yield the best outcomes if offered in the first salvage in patients with R/R B-ALL. In patients with financial constraints or prior allo-HCT (real-world practice) at first relapse, standard-intensive chemotherapy followed by allo-HCT may be considered. For subsequent relapses, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy or palliative care was suggested as the optimal choice of therapy.

Conclusion

This expert consensus will offer guidance to oncologists/clinicians on the management of B-ALL in Indian settings.

Leaf rust responsive miRNA and their target genes in wheat

Small RNA sequencing (sRNA-seq) and degradome analysis were used for the identification of miRNAs and their target host genes in a pair of near-isogenic lines (NILs), which differed for the presence of leaf rust resistance gene Lr28. The study led to identification of (i) 506 known and 346 novel miRNAs; and (ii) 5054 target genes including 4557 in silico predicted and 497 degradome-based genes using 105 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs. A subset of 128 targets (67 in silico + 61 degradome-based) was differentially expressed in RNA-seq data that was generated by us earlier using the same pair of NILs; among these 128 targets, 58 target genes exhibited an inverse relationship with the DE miRNAs (expression of miRNAs and activation/suppression of target genes). Eight miRNAs which belonged to the conserved miRNA families and were known to be induced in response to fungal diseases in plants included the following: miR156, miR158, miR159, miR168, miR169, miR172, miR319, miR396. The target genes belonged to the following classes of genes known to be involved in downstream disease resistance pathways; peroxidases, sugar transporters, auxin response signaling, oxidation-reduction, etc. It was also noticed that although a majority of miRNAs and target genes followed the above classical inverse relationship, there were also examples, where no such relationship was observed. Among the target genes, there were also 51 genes that were not only regulated by miRNAs, but were also differentially methylated at sequences including the following segments: promotors, introns, TSS, exons. The results of the present study suggest a complex interplay among miRNA genes, target genes, and various epigenetic controls, which regulate the expression of genes involved in downstream pathways for disease resistance.

Classification of Mental Stress from Wearable Physiological Sensors Using Image-Encoding-Based Deep Neural Network

The human body is designed to experience stress and react to it, and experiencing challenges causes our body to produce physical and mental responses and also helps our body to adjust to new situations. However, stress becomes a problem when it continues to remain without a period of relaxation or relief. When a person has long-term stress, continued activation of the stress response causes wear and tear on the body. Chronic stress results in cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, and diabetes, and thus is deeply detrimental to our health. Previous researchers have performed a lot of work regarding mental stress, using mainly machine-learning-based approaches. However, most of the methods have used raw, unprocessed data, which cause more errors and thereby affect the overall model performance. Moreover, corrupt data values are very common, especially for wearable sensor datasets, which may also lead to poor performance in this regard. This paper introduces a deep-learning-based method for mental stress detection by encoding time series raw data into Gramian Angular Field images, which results in promising accuracy while detecting the stress levels of an individual. The experiment has been conducted on two standard benchmark datasets, namely WESAD (wearable stress and affect detection) and SWELL. During the studies, testing accuracies of 94.8% and 99.39% are achieved for the WESAD and SWELL datasets, respectively. For the WESAD dataset, chest data are taken for the experiment, including the data of sensor modalities such as three-axis acceleration (ACC), electrocardiogram (ECG), body temperature (TEMP), respiration (RESP), etc.

Genetic characterization of donkeys of Braj region of India

The grey type donkeys of Braj region of Uttar Pradesh in India were genetically characterized using ten heterologous microsatellite loci. At these loci the PCR product size ranged from 75-95 bp at locus HTG6 to 251-277 bp at locus COR18. The observed number of alleles varied from 4 (HTG15) to 10 (HTG7 and AHT4) with a mean of 7.50 ± 1.96. The observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.46 (HTG6 and NVHEQ54) to 0.79 (COR18) with a mean of 0.66 ± 0.12. The mean genetic diversity estimate (FIS) was 0.157. When these donkeys were compared on the basis of allelic frequency data at these loci to the brown type donkeys of Ladakh, Spiti and Rayalseema regions in the union territories/states of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, respectively, they clustered independently from these three donkey populations in a dendrogram based on Goldstein's average square distances indicating their genetic distinctness.

New Genomic Regions Identified for Resistance to Spot Blotch and Terminal Heat Stress in an Interspecific Population of Triticum aestivum and T. spelta

Wheat is one of the most widely grown and consumed food crops in the world. Spot blotch and terminal heat stress are the two significant constraints mainly in the Indo-Gangetic plains of South Asia. The study was undertaken using 185 recombinant lines (RILs) derived from the interspecific hybridization of 'Triticum aestivum (HUW234) × T. spelta (H⁺26)' to reveal genomic regions associated with tolerance to combined stress to spot blotch and terminal heat. Different physiological (NDVI, canopy temperature, leaf chlorophyll) and grain traits (TGW, grain size) were observed under stressed (spot blotch, terminal heat) and non-stressed environments. The mean maturity duration of RILs under combined stress was reduced by 12 days, whereas the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was 46.03%. Similarly, the grain size was depleted under combined stress by 32.23% and thousand kernel weight (TKW) by 27.56% due to spot blotch and terminal heat stress, respectively. The genetic analysis using 6734 SNP markers identified 37 significant loci for the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) and NDVI. The genome-wide functional annotation of the SNP markers revealed gene functions such as plant chitinases, NB-ARC and NBS-LRR, and the peroxidase superfamily Cytochrome P450 have a positive role in the resistance through a hypersensitive response. Zinc finger domains, cysteine protease coding gene, F-box protein, ubiquitin, and associated proteins, play a substantial role in the combined stress of spot blotch and terminal heat in bread wheat, according to genomic domains ascribed to them. The study also highlights T. speltoides as a source of resistance to spot blotch and terminal heat tolerance.

MTRRE-Net: A deep learning model for detection of breast cancer from histopathological images

Histopathological image classification has become one of the most challenging tasks among researchers due to the fine-grained variability of the disease. However, the rapid development of deep learning-based models such as the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) has propelled much attentiveness to the classification of complex biomedical images. In this work, we propose a novel end-to-end deep learning model, named Multi-scale Dual Residual Recurrent Network (MTRRE-Net), for breast cancer classification from histopathological images. This model introduces a contrasting approach of dual residual block combined with the recurrent network to overcome the vanishing gradient problem even if the network is significantly deep. The proposed model has been evaluated on a publicly available standard dataset, namely BreaKHis, and achieved impressive accuracy in overcoming state-of-the-art models on all the images considered at various magnification levels.

Identification of QTLs for zinc deficiency tolerance in a recombinant inbred population of rice (Oryza sativa L.)

BACKGROUND

Deficiency of Zn is a major soil constraint in rice plant growth and yield. Edaphic factors such as Zn deficiency in soil in relation to plant performance are still poorly understood. Here, we report promising quantitative trait loci (QTL) conferring tolerance to Zn deficiency, which were identified through biparental mapping. The experiment was conducted using the 236 F₇ recombinant inbred line mapping population derived from the cross of Kinandang Patong (Zn deficiency sensitive) and A69-1 (Zn deficiency tolerant).

RESULTS

A total of six QTLs (qLB-2B, qLB-4B, qPM-4B, qPM-6B, qRZC-4B, qSZC-4B) on chromosomes 2, 4 and 6 were identified for environment 1, whereas five QTLs (qLB-2 N, qLB-4 N, qPM-4 N, qRZC-4 N, qSZC-4 N) on chromosomes 2 and 4 were detected for environment 2. Among these, five major (51.30, 48.70, 28.60, 56.00, 52.00 > 10 R² ) and one minor (5.40 < 10 R² ) QTLs for environment 1 and four major (51.48, 50.20, 53.00, 48.00 > 10 R² ) and one minor (4.44 < 10) QTLs for environment 2 for Zn deficiency tolerance with a logarithm of odd threshold value higher than 3 were identified. The QTLs (qLB-4B, qPM-4B, qRZC-4B, qSZC-4B, qLB-4 N, qPM-4 N, qRZC-4 N, qSZC-4 N) for leaf bronzing, plant mortality root zinc concentration and shoot zinc concentration identified on chromosome 4 were found to be the most promising and highly reproducible across the locations that explained phenotypic variation from 48.00% to 56.00% with the same marker interval RM6748-RM303.

CONCLUSION

The new QTLs and its linked markers identified in the present study can be utilized for Zn deficiency tolerance in elite cultivars using marker-assisted backcrossing. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Phenotyping Fusarium head blight through seed morphology characteristics using RGB imaging

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is an economically important disease affecting wheat and thus poses a major threat to wheat production. Several studies have evaluated the effectiveness of image analysis methods to predict FHB using disease-infected grains; however, few have looked at the final application, considering the relationship between cost and benefit, resolution, and accuracy. The conventional screening of FHB resistance of large-scale samples is still dependent on low-throughput visual inspections. This study aims to compare the performance of two cost-benefit seed image analysis methods, the free software "SmartGrain" and the fully automated commercially available instrument "Cgrain Value™" by assessing 16 seed morphological traits of winter wheat to predict FHB. The analysis was carried out on a seed set of FHB which was visually assessed as to the severity. The dataset is composed of 432 winter wheat genotypes that were greenhouse-inoculated. The predictions from each method, in addition to the predictions combined from the results of both methods, were compared with the disease visual scores. The results showed that Cgrain Value™ had a higher prediction accuracy of R ² = 0.52 compared with SmartGrain for which R ² = 0.30 for all morphological traits. However, the results combined from both methods showed the greatest prediction performance of R ² = 0.58. Additionally, a subpart of the morphological traits, namely, width, length, thickness, and color features, showed a higher correlation with the visual scores compared with the other traits. Overall, both methods were related to the visual scores. This study shows that these affordable imaging methods could be effective to predict FHB in seeds and enable us to distinguish minor differences in seed morphology, which could lead to a precise performance selection of disease-free seeds/grains.

Evaluation of Antinociceptive Activity of Ficus Religiosa Root Extract in Swiss Albino Mice

Background Ficus religiosa, commonly known as peepal, is widely distributed in Indian subcontinent. It has been used as an antiepileptic, aphrodisiac, analgesic, antiinflammatory and laxative in traditional medicine. Objective To explore the analgesic effect of aqueous root extract of Ficus religiosa using thermal and chemical models of pain in swiss albino mice. Method The aqueous aerial root extract of Ficus religiosa was prepared using soxhlet apparatus. The anti-nociceptive effect of the extract at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg was evaluated using peripheral (acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing), spinal (tail flick) and supra-spinal (hot plate) behavioral models of pain. All data were presented as Mean ± SEM. Statistical differences between Ficus religiosa (50 and 100 mg/kg) and standard control groups were evaluated using Mann-Whitney U test. Result There was significant dose dependent increase in the mean reaction time compared to the vehicle control in hot plate and tail- flick test. In acetic acid induced writhing test, mice treated with Ficus religiosa (50 and 100 mg/kg) exhibited significant dose-dependent decrease in the mean number of writhes (57.45% and 79.20% respectively) compared to the vehicle control. The activity of Ficus religiosa extract at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg was equipotent to Standard control (Morphine and Indomethacin) used in different test models. Conclusion The extract of Ficus religiosa possesses both central and peripheral analgesic activity thus validating the traditional use of this plant in the management of pain.

Transcriptome profiling reveals the genes and pathways involved in thermo-tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotype Raj 3765

Wheat, one of the most widely consumed staple food crops globally, is relatively vulnerable to high temperature-induced heat stress. It is therefore essential to gain more insight into the comprehensive mechanism of thermotolerance of wheat in order to safeguard its production. In view of this, we analysed heat stress responsive transcriptome data of wheat to determine its gene expression level under heat stress. A total of 7990 DEGs, including 4483 up-regulated and 3507 down regulated genes were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis categorized 3910 DEGs into different ontology families. 146 pathways involving 814 DEGs were enriched during KEGG analysis. Metabolic pathways and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites were the major pathways enriched. MYB (myeloblastosis) transcription factors (TFs) and many other TFs as bHLH, WRKY, NAC, ERF, were determined to be quite abundant in the DEGs. Since various reports indicate that these TFs play important role in plants abiotic stress, it is an indication that our DEGs are functional in heat stress tolerance. Verification of few selected DEGs using RT-qPCR produced expression levels similar to the transcriptome data. This indicates that the transcriptome data is reliable. These results could be helpful in enhancing our understanding of the mechanism underlying thermotolerance in wheat.

COVID-19 chest X-ray detection through blending ensemble of CNN snapshots

The novel COVID-19 pandemic, has effectively turned out to be one of the deadliest events in modern history, with unprecedented loss of human life, major economic and financial setbacks and has set the entire world back quite a few decades. However, detection of the COVID-19 virus has become increasingly difficult due to the mutating nature of the virus, and the rise in asymptomatic cases. To counteract this and contribute to the research efforts for a more accurate screening of COVID-19, we have planned this work. Here, we have proposed an ensemble methodology for deep learning models to solve the task of COVID-19 detection from chest X-rays (CXRs) to assist Computer-Aided Detection (CADe) for medical practitioners. We leverage the strategy of transfer learning for Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), widely adopted in recent literature, and further propose an efficient ensemble network for their combination. The DenseNet-201 architecture has been trained only once to generate multiple snapshots, offering diverse information about the extracted features from CXRs. We follow the strategy of decision-level fusion to combine the decision scores using the blending algorithm through a Random Forest (RF) meta-learner. Experimental results confirm the efficacy of the proposed ensemble method, as shown through impressive results upon two open access COVID-19 CXR datasets — the largest COVID-X dataset, as well as a smaller scale dataset. On the large COVID-X dataset, the proposed model has achieved an accuracy score of 94.55% and on the smaller dataset by Chowdhury et al., the proposed model has achieved a 98.13% accuracy score.

The role of diaphragmatic thickness measurement in weaning prediction and its comparison with rapid shallow breathing index: a single-center experience

Background: Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is commonly managed with invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). The majority of the time that a patient spends on IMV is in the process of weaning. Prediction of the weaning outcome is of paramount importance, as untimely/delayed extubation is associated with a high risk of mortality. Diaphragmatic ultrasonography is a promising tool in the intensive care unit, and its utility in predicting the success of weaning remains understudied.Methods: In this prospective-observational study, we recruited 54 ARF patients on IMV, along with 50 healthy controls. During a spontaneous breathing trial, all subjects underwent diaphragmatic ultrasonography along with a rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) assessment.Results: The mean age was 41.8±17.0 and 37.6±10.5 years among the cases and control group, respectively. Demographic variables were broadly similar in the two groups. The most common cause of ARF was obstructive airway disease. The average duration of IMV was 5.41±2.81 days. Out of 54 subjects, 45 were successfully weaned, while nine patients failed weaning. Age, body mass index, and severity of disease were similar in the successful and failed weaning patients. The sensitivity in predicting successful weaning of percent change in diaphragmatic thickness (Δtdi%) >29.71% was high (93.33%), while specificity was 66.67%. The sensitivity and specificity of mean diaphragmatic thickness (tdi) end-expiratory >0.178 cm was 60.00% and 77.78%, respectively. RSBI at 1 minute of <93.75 had an equally high sensitivity (93.33%) but a lower specificity (22.22%). Similar results were also found for RSBI measured at 5 minutes.Conclusions: During the weaning assessment, the purpose is to minimize both premature as well as delayed extubation. We found that diaphragmatic ultrasonography, in particular Δtdi%, is better than RSBI in predicting weaning outcomes.