Unveiling the untapped potential of Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis lignocellulosic fiber: A multifaceted characterization for advancing sustainable biocomposite applications.

In the pursuit of sustainable advancements in bio-inspired fiber reinforced polymer composite materials, the exploration of novel natural fibers has become a focal point of research. This experimental study aims to elucidate the unexplored potential of Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis fiber (HRF) as a versatile reinforcement material for high-performance composites. Through an integrated approach, this research offers a meticulous analysis of the HRF's physico-chemical properties, and single fiber tensile strength. The crystalline structure are revealed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal behavior are characterized through thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), and surface morphology has been visualized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) studies. From the results, it is found that the HRF contains a cellulose content of 79.50 %, positioning it as a prime bast fiber among its counterparts. This composition is complemented by hemicellulose (10.36 %), lignin (4.62 %), wax (0.84 %), and ash (2.96 %). The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra unveils the intricate functional groups present in the fibers. XRD analysis highlights a crystallinity index (CI) of 66.93 %, confirming a well-organized and structured crystalline arrangement. The thermal stability established through TGA underscores HRF's resilience up to 284 °C, presenting it is an optimal reinforcement material for bio-inspired green composites operating within 280 °C. The surface morphology of HRF is examined through FESEM and three-dimensional profiling, showcasing its inherent morphological intricacies. The multidimensional characterization provided herein contributes significantly to the evolving landscape of biocomposite research, fostering a platform for future advancements and innovations in HRF-based composite materials.

Clinico-mycological validation of dermatophytosis severity score and its correlation with patient-reported outcome measures.

BACKGROUND: Dermatophytosis impacts a significant portion of the global population. Recent shifts in the disease's presentation, severity and response to treatment, primarily due to emerging drug resistance, underscore the need for reliable assessment tools. The Dermatophytosis Severity Score (DSS) aims to standardise the evaluation of the disease's severity and monitor therapeutic responses. METHODS: In a cross-sectional pilot study, 25 adults with clinically diagnosed dermatophytosis were evaluated using the DSS. The study also aimed to establish the correlation of DSS with different stages of treatment, dermatophyte species and patient-reported outcomes. Participants were recruited from a dermatology outpatient clinic, and the DSS was applied at baseline, Weeks 4 and 8. The validity and reliability of the DSS were assessed using statistical measures, including Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The study comprised of a near-equal distribution of male (52%) and female (48%) patients, primarily within the age group of 20-39 years. A high recurrence rate of dermatophytosis (60%) was noted, and more than half of the patients (56%) had used topical steroids before presentation. The mean DSS significantly decreased from baseline to the final visit, mirroring the substantial reduction in the 5D itch scale and Dermatology Life Quality Index, with strong positive correlations observed between these measures. CONCLUSION: The DSS demonstrated high inter-rater reliability and internal consistency, indicating its utility as a reliable clinical tool for assessing dermatophytosis severity. The strong correlation of DSS with itch intensity and quality of life validates its role in patient-centered care. Continued use and further validation of the DSS are recommended to enhance dermatophytosis management and treatment outcomes.

Incidence and risk factors of complications during central venous access devices removal in children.

PURPOSE: To quantify the rates and identify risk factors for the complications of central venous access devices (CVADs) removal in children. METHOD: Retrospective (2018-2023) review of children undergoing CVADs removal at a single institution. Data are reported as frequency, percentages and median. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors associated with difficult removal. Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC) analysis was conducted to identify the age cut-off and positive likelihood ratio (+LH) for the indwelling time associated with complicated removal. p-Value <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: We identified 208 CVAD removals with a median age of 7.2 (0.2-18.4) years including 116 (55.8%) males. The median CVAD placement duration was 1.26 years (0.4-5.7) years. Indications for insertion included acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL; 78/208, 37.5%), lymphomas (31/208, 14.9%), other malignancies (58/208, 27.9%). Removal indications included completion of treatment (144/208, 69.2%), infection (22/208, 10.6%), malfunction (7/208, 3.4%) and other reasons (35/208, 16.8%). There were 20 (9.6%) complications characterised by difficulty removing the CVAD. Complicated removals were more likely to occur in children with ALL as the primary diagnosis (p = 0.001); independently of the indication for insertion, longer indwelling time was associated with higher risk of complicated removal (p < 0.001). Indwelling time >2.09 years was associated with a 2.87 increased risk of difficult removal. CONCLUSION: In our experience, almost 10% of CVAD removals in children result in complications. These findings are associated with an indwelling time >2 years; strategies to prevent complicated removals should be considered in children requiring long-term central venous access.

An Objective Evaluation of Intraoperative and Postoperative Pain in Infants Undergoing Open Inguinal Herniotomy and Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair Using the Newborn Infant Parasympathetic Evaluation (NIPE™) Monitor.

PURPOSE: The heart rate variability-derived Newborn Infant Parasympathetic Evaluation (NIPE) monitor is an objective, non-invasive tool for the assessment of pain in children under 2 years of age. The aim of this study was to objectively compare pain in infants undergoing open and laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery using the NIPE monitor. METHOD: This prospective observational study included neonates and infants (<2 years of age) undergoing elective open inguinal herniotomy and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair under general anaesthesia with a caudal block. The NIPE monitor was connected to the electrocardiogram monitor with continuous monitoring performed intraoperatively, and postoperatively in the Post Anaesthesia Care Unit. The NIPE index was recorded at different intraoperative steps. The median NIPE index (NIPEm) was calculated for the entire procedure and postoperative period. The NIPE index ranges from 0 to 100; lower values indicate greater levels of pain, values < 50 indicate severe pain. P values < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: There were 40 infants recruited: 27 underwent open herniotomy and 13 underwent laparoscopic repair. Intraoperatively, NIPEm was found to be significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (59.00 vs. 77.00, p = 0.0018). Postoperatively, NIPEm was also found to be significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (49.00 vs. 57.50, p = 0.0001). CONCLUSION: This is the first study to objectively demonstrate that laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair is more painful intraoperatively and leads to greater levels of pain in the early postoperative period compared to open inguinal herniotomy. This difference might explained by painful stimuli in anatomical areas not covered by the caudal block. TYPE OF STUDY: Treatment Study/Prospective Study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Enhancing precision in colorectal cancer surgery: development of an LGR5-targeting RSPO1 peptide mimetic as a contrast agent for intraoperative fluorescence molecular imaging.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. In the United States alone, CRC was responsible for approximately 52,550 deaths in 2023, with an estimated 153,020 new cases. CRC presents with synchronous peritoneal spread in 5-10% of patients, and up to 20-50% of patients with recurrent disease will develop metachronous colorectal cancer peritoneal metastatic (CRC-PM) disease. Eradication of the tumor, tumor margins and microscopic residual disease is paramount, as microscopic residual disease is associated with local recurrences, with 5-year survival rates of less than 35%. The success of resection and reduction of residual disease depends on the accuracy with which cancer cells and normal tissue can be intra-operatively distinguished. Fluorescence Molecular Imaging (IFMI) and tumor-targeted contrast agents represent a promising approach for intraoperative detection and surgical intervention. Proper target selection, the development of scalable imaging agents and enhanced real-time tumor and tumor microenvironment imaging are critical to enabling enhanced surgical resection. LGR5 (leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5), a colonic crypt stem cell marker and the receptor for the R-spondins (RSPO) in the Wnt signaling pathway, is also expressed on colorectal cancer stem cells (CSC) and on CRC tumors and metastases, suggesting it could be a useful target for imaging of CRC. However, there are numerous diverging reports on the role of LGR5 in CRC therapy and outcomes. Herein, we report on the synthesis and validation of a 37 amino acid RSPO1-mimetic peptide, termed RC18, that was specifically designed to access the R-spondin binding site of LGR5 to potentially be used for interoperative imaging of CRC-PM. The receptor-binding capabilities of the RC18 indicate that direct interactions with LGR5 neither significantly increased LGR5 signaling nor blocked RSPO1 binding and signal transduction, suggesting that the RSPO1-mimetic is functionally inert, making it an attractive contrast agent for intraoperative CRC-PM imaging.

Extraction and characterization of Bougainvillea glabra fibers: A study on chemical, physical, mechanical and morphological properties.

Bougainvillea glabra fibers (BGFs) present a promising avenue for sustainable material development owing to their abundance and favorable properties. This study entails a thorough investigation into the composition, physical characteristics, mechanical behavior, structural properties, thermal stability, and hydrothermal absorption behavior of BGFs. Chemical analysis reveals the predominant presence of cellulose (68.92 %), accompanied by notable proportions of hemicellulose (12.64 %), lignin (9.56 %), wax (3.72 %), moisture (11.78 %), and ash (1.75 %). Physical measurements ascertain a mean fiber diameter of approximately 232.63 ± 8.59 µm, while tensile testing demonstrates exceptional strength, with stress values ranging from 120 ± 18.26 MPa to a maximum of 770 ± 23.19 MPa at varying strains. X-ray diffraction (XRD) elucidates a crystalline index (CI) of 68.17 % and a crystallite size (CS) of 9.42 nm, indicative of a well-defined crystalline structure within the fibers. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirms the presence of characteristic functional groups associated with cellulose, hemicellulose, wax, and water content. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) delineates distinct thermal degradation stages, with onset temperatures ranging from 102.76 °C for water loss to 567.55 °C for ash formation. Furthermore, hydrothermal absorption behavior exhibits temperature and time-dependent trends, with absorption percentages ranging from 15.26 % to 32.19 % at temperatures between 30 °C and 108 °C and varying exposure durations. These comprehensive findings provide essential insights into the properties and potential applications of BGFs in diverse fields such as bio-composites, textiles, and environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Molecular based identification and phylogenetic relationship of the leech Hirudinaria manillensis from India by using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene.

BACKGROUND: A molecular approach for the identification of unknown species by the using mitochondrial cox1 gene is an effective and reliable as compared with morphological-based identification. Hirudinaria manillensis referred to as Asian Buffalo Leech, is found in South Asia and traditionally used as medicine owing to its medicinal properties. METHODS AND RESULTS: The study aimed to isolate and identify the leech species using cox1 gene sequencing and their phylogenetic relationships. The nucleotide sequences of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) mitochondrial genes were analyzed for species identification and the phylogenetic relationship of crucial therapeutic leech Hirudinaria manillensis. The isolated DNA from the leech sample was amplified with cox1 gene-specific primers. BLAST results with the H. manillensis sequence showed 89.24% homology with H. manillensis and phylogenetic tree analysis revealed the genetic relationship with other GenBank submitted sequences. CONCLUSION: The present study concluded that the cox1 gene could be an effective way to identify the leech H. manillensis and provided sufficient phylogenetic information to distinguish H. manillensis indicating a significant mtDNA-based approach to species identification.

Biodiesel production from eggshells derived bio-nano CaO catalyst-Microemulsion fuel blends for up-gradation of biodiesel.

The utilization of bio-oil derived from biomass presents a promising alternative to fossil fuels, though it faces challenges when directly applied in diesel engines. Microemulsification has emerged as a viable strategy to enhance bio-oil properties, facilitating its use in hybrid fuels. This study explores the microemulsification of Jatropha bio-oil with ethanol, aided by a surfactant, to formulate a hybrid liquid fuel. Additionally, a bio-nano CaO heterogeneous catalyst synthesized from eggshells is employed to catalyse the production of Jatropha biodiesel from the microemulsified fuel using microwave irradiation. The catalyst is characterized through UV-Vis, XRD, and SEM analysis. The investigation reveals a significant reduction in CO, CO2, and NOX emissions with the utilization of microemulsion-based biodiesel blends. Various blends of conventional diesel, Jatropha biodiesel, and ethanol are prepared with different ethanol concentrations (5, 10, and 20 wt%). Engine performance parameters, including fuel consumption, NOX emission, and brake specific fuel consumption, are analyzed. Results indicate that the conventional diesel/Jatropha biodiesel/ethanol (10 wt%) blend exhibits superior performance compared to conventional diesel, Jatropha biodiesel, and other blends. The fuel consumption of the conventional diesel/Jatropha biodiesel/ethanol (10 wt%) blend is measured at 554.6 g/h, surpassing that of conventional diesel and other biodiesel blends. The presence of water (0.14 %) in the blend reduces the heating value, consequently increasing the energy requirement. CO and CO2 emissions for the conventional diesel/Jatropha biodiesel/ethanol (10 wt%) blend are notably lower compared to conventional C-18 hydrocarbons and various biodiesel blends. These findings accentuate the efficacy of the microemulsion process in enhancing fuel characteristics and reducing emissions. Further investigations could explore optimizing the emulsifying agents and their impact on engine performance and emission characteristics, contributing to the advancement of sustainable fuel technologies.

Assessment of drug therapy satisfaction amongst the elderly: A patient reported outcomes measures approach.

BACKGROUND: Understanding elderly experiences enhance healthcare outcomes and patient satisfaction. Recognizing caregivers' role and implementing supportive measures enhance care. OBJECTIVES: Quantify drug satisfaction using patient-reported outcomes measures approach. Assess caregiver burden using short version of Burden Scale for Family Caregivers. METHODS: Six-month cross-sectional study in Department of Geriatrics. Elderly (≥60), minimum one comorbidity, admitted for >48 h, and consenting to participate were enrolled. Patient satisfaction assessed using Treatment Satisfaction with Medicines Questionnaire (SATMED-Q). SPSS version 27 used to calculate odds ratio. RESULTS: 282 participants enrolled. SATMED-Q score 47.41 ± 10.34, indicating overall satisfaction. Treatment satisfaction range 47.07 % to 100 %. Age [OR 0.964, 95 % CI 0.932-0.996 (p = 0.029)] and education [OR 1.500, 95 % CI 1.129-1.992 (p = 0.005)] influenced satisfaction. 268 [95.03 %] had caregivers, 14 [4.96 %] did not. Caregiver burden score 9.25 ± 9.11. CONCLUSION: Insights obtained from assessing satisfaction and caregiver burden enables physicians to improve welfare of elderly and caregivers.

Effect of solar powered MgO/graphene nano catalysed biodiesel production from Scomber scombrus.

The aim of the work is to find the efficiency of solar power in biodiesel preparation from mackerel fish. The paper also focusses on the ability of MgO/graphene prepared by one-pot synthesis using combustion methodology. The physicochemical properties of the material were analysed by XRD, N2 sorption studies, BET sorption analysis and SEM. The adsorption studies revealed the porosity of the graphene is intact, and the morphology studies indicated that MgO is uniformly distributed on the graphene surface. The highest biodiesel yield of 98.95% was obtained using the solar-powered Fresnel solar concentrator at 12.30 p.m in 6 min reaction time using 3 wt% MgO/GO catalyst at 65 °C. Conventional heating produced only 75% biodiesel at the same reaction condition, consuming25 min to complete. The solar assisted biodiesel had better HHV of 37.81 MJ/Kg, viscosity of 4.3 mm2/s, pour point of -15 °C, and a density of 0.875 g/mL. The optimized catalyst showed a shelf life of 5 cycles. The results portray the efficacy of natural energy source in alternative liquid fuel production.

Using wearable technology for Posture Regulation to Improve Surgical Ergonomics in the paediatric operating room: the UPRISE trial: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: The rising prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders has numerous physical, financial, and mental repercussions for surgeons. This study aims to establish whether the use of a wearable posture device can improve the operating time spent in suboptimal, high-risk postures. METHODS: Surgeons were recruited in Phase 1 of this prospective randomised study and baseline postural data was obtained. In Phase 2, participants were randomised to receive either a traditional educational workshop or intraoperative vibrations from the device to correct postural lapses. During minor elective day cases, intraoperative postural data was collected and stratified by forward flexion angle, into five risk categories (negligible to very high). Participants' experience with the sensor was also assessed. RESULTS: A total of 100 surgical procedures (Phase 1: n = 50; Phase 2: n = 50) were performed by eight surgeons of varying seniority. Exposure to the educational intervention increased time spent in suboptimal posture (Phase 1 vs. Phase 2); 47.5% vs. 67.8%, p = 0.05. However, the vibrational intervention significantly reduced this time; 50.0% vs. 20.7%, p = 0.005. Procedure type didn't influence posture although, laparoscopic interventions spent most time in negligible-risk postures; 47.7% vs. 49.3%, compared to open procedures. Surgical consultants spent less time in suboptimal posture compared to fellow/registrars; 30.3% vs. 72.6% (Phase 1) and 33.8% vs. 65.3% (Phase 2). CONCLUSION: Vibrational intervention from the device significantly decreased the time spent in suboptimal, high-risk postures. As procedure type wasn't correlated with postural changes, surgeon-specific factors in regulating posture are paramount. Finally, surgeon experience was positively correlated with improved surgical ergonomics.

Awareness and practice of Revised Code of Dental Ethics and Consumer Protection Act among dental practitioners in Andhra Pradesh: A cross sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Given the imperative for dental practitioners to be familiar with the existing ethical principles and laws governing their practice, this study aimed to evaluate awareness and practice of the dentists (code of ethics) regulations 2014 and consumer protection act 2019 among dental practitioners in Andhra Pradesh state, India. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted among 384 dental practitioners in Andhra Pradesh state, India. A questionnaire consisting of 25 items was used to assess awareness and practice of the dentists (code of ethics) regulations and consumer protection act. The data collected were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. RESULTS: Only 53(13.8%) dental practitioners in the study were aware that the dentists (code of ethics) regulations had been revised in 2014. About 190 (49.5%) practitioners were aware of the precise period for mandatory preservation of patient records. Most dental practitioners (278, 72.4%) accepted commissions in the form of gifts or cash from laboratories, radiologists, or pharmacists and 306 (79.7%) dental practitioners used unregistered dental lab technicians as employees in their practice. Furthermore, 297 (77.3%) practitioners were found to provide or sell drugs to patients in their clinic/office. The new regulations under consumer protection act 2019 were unknown to 194 (50.5%) dental practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: The present study indicates that the awareness of dental practitioners towards the dentists (code of ethics) regulations 2014 and consumer protection act 2019 is inadequate. It highlights the need for training programmes and curriculum changes with a focus on ethical and legal issues in clinical dental practice.

A review on titanium oxide nanoparticles modified metal-organic frameworks for effective CO2 conversion and efficient wastewater remediation.

Environmental pollution has been increasing since last decade due to increasing industrialisation and urbanisation. Various kinds ofenvironmental pollutants including carbon dioxide (CO2), dyes, pharmaceuticals, phenols, heavy metals along with many organic and inorganic species have been discovered in the various environmental compartments which possess harmful impacts tox human health, wildlife, and ecosystems. Thus, various efforts have been made through regulations, technological advancements, and public awareness campaigns to reduce the impact of the pollution. However, finding suitable alternatives to mitigate their impacts remained a challenge. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are one of the advanced materials with unique features such as high porosity and stability which exhibit versatile applications in environmental remediation. Their composites with titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2) have been discovered to offer potential feature such as light harvesting capacity and catalytic activity. The composite integration and properties have been confirmed through characterization using surface area analysis, scanning electron/transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and others. Thus, this work rigorously discussed potential applications of the MOF@TiO2 nanomaterials for the CO2 capture and effective utilization in methanol, ethanol, acetone, acetaldehyde, and other useful products that served as fuel to various industrial processes. Additionally, the work highlights the effective performance of the materials towards photocatalytic degradation of both organic and inorganic pollutants with indepth mechanistic insights. The article will offer significant contribution for the development of sustainable and efficient technologies for the environmental monitoring and pollution mitigation.

Extraction and characterization of novel fibers from Tecoma stans Linn bark for use as reinforcement in polymer composites.

Embarking on a pioneering investigation, this study unravels the extraordinary qualities of Tecoma stans Fibers (TSFs), freshly harvested from the rachis, establishing them as prospective reinforcements for biocomposites. Delving into their intricate characteristics, TSFs exhibit a unique fusion of physical resilience, with a density of 1.81 ± 0.39 g/cc and a diameter of 234.12 ± 7.63 µm. Complementing their physical prowess, their chemical composition boasts a harmonious blend of cellulose (70.1 ± 9.06 wt%), hemicellulose (13.56 ± 4.29 wt%), lignin (7.62 ± 2.39 wt%), moisture (4.21 ± 1.56 wt%), wax (2.37 ± 0.63 wt%), and ash (1.25 ± 0.36 wt%). In the realm of mechanical strength, TSFs showcase an impressive tensile strength of 639 ± 18.47 MPa, coupled with a robust strain at failure of 1.75 ± 0.13 % and a Young Modulus of 36.51 ± 1.96 GPa. Unveiling their crystalline intricacies, these fibers reveal a microfibril angle of 14.66 ± 0.15°, a crystalline index (CI) of 63.83 %, and a crystallite size (CS) of 9.27 nm. Beyond their mechanical marvels, TSFs exhibit unwavering thermal stability, enduring temperatures up to 297.36 °C, with a Tmax reaching an impressive 392.09 °C.

Dyadic practice for the acquisition of laparoscopic skills (DALS)-A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic simulation is integral to surgical education but requires significant resources. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of dyadic practice (DP), involving two individuals working together, to individual practice (IP) for novices acquiring laparoscopic skills and assess their learning experience. METHODS: We conducted a Randomized Controlled Trial comparing DP and IP for novice medical students who completed a laparoscopic simulation workshop. Participants were assessed individually pre-course (test 1), post-course (test 2), and 8-week retention (test 3) using a validated quantitative method. A post-course questionnaire and interview, analyzed with thematic analysis, assessed the learning experience. RESULTS: In total, 31 DP and 35 IP participants completed the study. There was no difference in mean scores between DP and IP groups in all three tests: test 1 (p = 0.55), test 2 (p = 0.26), test 3 (p = 0.35). In trend analysis, the DP group improved post-course (test 1 vs. 2: p = 0.02) and maintained this level at the retention test (2 vs. 3: p = 0.80, 1 vs. 3: p = 0.02). Whilst the IP group also improved post-course (test 1 vs. 2: p < 0.001), this improvement was not retained (2 vs. 3: p = 0.003, 1 vs. 3: p = 0.32). Thematic analysis revealed that DP participants valued peer support, peer feedback and observation time, but also acknowledged the limitations of reduced practical time and issues with teamwork. CONCLUSION: DP is non-inferior to IP for novices learning laparoscopic skills, is well received and may lead to superior long-term skill retention.

A guide to outcome evaluation of simulation-based education programmes in low and middle-income countries.

Evaluation is a vital part of any learning activity and is essential to optimize and improve educational programmes. It should be considered and prioritized prior to the implementation of any learning activity. However, comprehensive programme evaluation is rarely conducted, and there are numerous barriers to high-quality evaluation. This review provides a framework for conducting outcome evaluation of simulation-based education programmes in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). The basis of evaluation, including core ideas of theory, purpose and structure are outlined, followed by an examination of the levels and healthcare applications of the Kirkpatrick model of evaluation. Then, methods of conducting evaluation of simulation-based education in LMICs are discussed through the lens of a successful surgical simulation programme in Myanmar, a lower-middle-income country. The programme involved the evaluation of 11 courses over 4 years in Myanmar and demonstrated evaluation at the highest level of the Kirkpatrick model. Reviewing this programme provides a bridge between evaluation theory and practical implementation. A range of evaluation methods are outlined, including surveys, interviews, and clinical outcome measurement. The importance of a mixed-methods approach, enabling triangulation of quantitative and qualitative analysis, is highlighted, as are methods of analysing data, including statistical and thematic analysis. Finally, issues and challenges of conducting evaluation are considered, as well as strategies to overcome these barriers. Ultimately, this review informs readers about evaluation theory and methods, grounded in a practical application, to enable other educators in low-resource settings to evaluate their own activities.

In vitro anticancer activity of Hirudinaria manillensis methanolic extract and its validation using in silico molecular docking approach.

Cancer has emerged as a potentially lethal illness, which recently upsurged in the mortality rate. Animal-derived compounds could be promising targets with higher efficacy and low toxicity in anticancer therapy. The present study aimed to explore the presence of anticancer potential compounds in Hirudinaria manillensis methanolic extract and their anticancer potential against various cancer cell types and target identification by Auto dock method. Initially, the identification of bioactive compounds was achieved by GC-MS analysis followed by the anticancer activity by MTT assay against A549, HeLa, MDA-MB-231, MG-63, and MOLT-4. Further, the effect of a lead compound on the cancer cell target was analyzed by the Auto dock method. GC-MS analysis results revealed the presence of 25 different bioactive compounds including anticancer potential compounds, such as Lupeol, Carvacrol, and Demecolcine. Interestingly, MTT assay results demonstrated the anticancer potential of Hirudinaria manillensis extract (LE) against various cancer cell lines, such as A549 (54.60 µg/ml), HeLa (19.93 µg/ml), MDA-MB-231 (20.23 µg/ml), MG-63 (20.04 µg/ml), and MOLT-4 (171.8 µg/ml), respectively. Among these cell types, the maximum inhibition was observed against HeLa with the IC50 concentration of 19.93 µg/ml. Furthermore, Demecolcine compound was docked with the EGFR tyrosine kinase showed the binding affinity of the docked complex was predicted to be - 6.2 kcal/mol. Thus, we conclude that H. manillensis has a significant anticancer effect on human cancer cell lines and could be used as a natural target which paves the way for further studies on biomedical applications in cancer therapeutics.

Synthesis of silver­bismuth oxide encapsulated hydrazone functionalized chitosan (AgBi2O3/FCS) nanocomposite for electrochemical sensing of glucose, H2O2 and Escherichia coli O157:H7.

In this work, silver­bismuth oxide encapsulated 1,3,5-triazine-bis(4-methylbenzenesulfonyl)-hydrazone functionalized chitosan (SBO/FCS) nanocomposite was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The amine (-NH2) group was functionalized by the addition of cyanuric acid chloride followed by 4-methylbenzenesulfonol hydrazide. The SBO/FCS has been characterized by FT-IR, X-ray diffraction, XPS, HR-SEM, HR-TEM, AFM, and thermogravimetry (TGA). Under the optimum conditions, the SBO/FCS sensor showed brilliant electrochemical accomplishment for the sensing of glucose and H2O2 by a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.057 µM and 0.006 µM. It also showed linearity for glucose 0.008-4.848 mM and for H2O2 of 0.01-6.848 mM. Similarly, the sensor exhibited a low sensitivity to glucose (32 µA mM-1 cm-2) and a good sensitivity to H2O2 (295 µA mM-1 cm-2). In addition, that the prepared electrode could be used to sense the glucose and H2O2 levels in real samples such as blood serum and HeLa cell lines. The screen printed electrode (SPE) immunosensor could sense the E. coli O157:H7 concurrently and quantitatively with a linear range of 1.0 × 101-1.0 × 109 CFU mL-1 and a LOD of 4 CFU mL-1. Likewise, the immunosensor efficiently detect spiked E. coli O157:H7 in milk, chicken, and pork samples, with recoveries ranging from 89.70 to 104.72 %, demonstrating that the immunosensor was accurate and reliable.

Immunohistochemical analysis of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis.

BACKGROUND: Dermatophytosis has assumed epidemic proportions with rising resistance, recalcitrance and recurrence, especially in tropical regions. While various factors contribute to high prevalence worldwide, yet little is known about the interactions between host defence mechanisms and dermatophytes, particularly in chronic and recalcitrant dermatophytosis. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to compare the population of various immune cells in specimens of chronic recurrent dermatophytosis and those with acute superficial dermatophytosis. METHODS: We investigated the density of various immune cells-Langerhans cells (CD1a+), macrophages (CD68+), dermal dendrocytes (Factor XIIIa+) in the skin of chronic dermatophytosis patients and those with successfully resolved lesions (controls). RESULTS: Langerhans cells were significantly decreased in the epidermis of patients, both in affected and unaffected areas in comparison with controls. In the dermis, however, no differences in the density of immune cells (macrophages and fibroblasts) were observed. LIMITATIONS: The limited sample size and immune cells evaluated could be expanded further in future research. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that the decreased number of Langerhans cells could be a potential risk factor for the development of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis.

Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) Using NiO nanoparticles.

The oncogenic and genetic properties of anthracene, a member of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) family, pose a significant health threat to humans. This study aims to investigate the photocatalytic decomposition of anthracene under various conditions, such as different concentrations of PAHs, varying amounts of NiO (nickel oxide) nanoparticles, and different pH levels under ultraviolet light and sunlight. The synthesized NiO nanoparticles showed surface plasma resonance at 230 and 360 nm, while XRD and SEM analysis confirmed the nanoparticles were cubic crystalline in structure with sizes ranging between 37 and 126 nm. NiO nanoparticles exhibited 79% degradation of pyrene at 2 µg/mL of anthracene within 60 min of treatment. NiO at 10 µg/mL concentration showed significant adsorption of 57%, while the adsorption method worked efficiently (72%) at 5 pH. Photocatalytic degradation was confirmed by isotherm and kinetic studies through monolayer adsorption and pseudo-first-order kinetics. Further, the absorption process was confirmed by performing GC-MS analysis of the NiO nanoparticles. On the other hand, NiO nanoparticles showed antimicrobial activity against Gram negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Therefore, the present work is one of its kind proving the dual application of NiO nanoparticles, which makes them suitable candidates for bioremediation by treating PAHs and killing pathogenic bacteria.