Time-efficient etching of LR-115 SSNTD film for indoor radon, thoron quantification.

LR-115 Solid State Nuclear Track Detector (SSNTD) is commonly utilized for quantifying indoor radon-thoron levels, by tallying the tracks formed in the films by exposure to these gases. Conventionally, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is used to etch LR-115 films for 90 min at 60°C. However, this study suggests a time-efficient alternative approach utilizing potassium hydroxide (KOH) as the etchant. In an initial investigation, the bulk etch rates of KOH were examined at different normalities and temperatures, revealing that KOH exhibited nearly double the bulk etch rates compared to NaOH. Subsequently, a specially designed controlled experiment was conducted to assess the efficacy of the technique by enumerating the tracks generated in the films. Both etchants demonstrated very similar track counts for identical controlled exposures, indicating the reliability of the method. A consistent behavior was observed in the real-case scenario of LR-115 films exposed indoors to alpha particles from radon and its decay products. In both experiments, the etching with KOH for 45 min gave track densities comparable to standard NaOH etching for 90 min, highlighting the time efficiency of this method. Investigations were carried out into track shape and size features, aspects crucial to the measurement technique, using microscopic imaging of samples treated with both etchants. Strikingly similar track shapes and sizes were observed, affirming the consistency in the track measurement technique. Collectively, these findings suggest that KOH etchant reduces the etching time, presenting itself as a time-efficient method for quantifying radon and thoron track density.

SOD-GIF-FIT module controls plant organ size and iron uptake.

Plant organ growth is controlled by various internal and external cues. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms that coordinate plant organ growth and nutrient homeostasis remain largely unknown. Recently, Zheng et al. identified the key regulators SOD7 (suppressor of da1-1) and GRF-INTERACTING FACTOR1 (GIF1) that control organ size and iron uptake in arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana).

Modulation of TRPM8 alters the phagocytic activity of microglia and induces changes in sub-cellular organelle functions.

In this work, we investigated the presence and function of TRPM8, a non-selective and cold-sensitive Ca2+-permeable ion channel in the primary microglia cell as well as in microglia cell line BV2. We demonstrate that primary microglia as well as BV2 express TRPM8 endogenously. Both pharmacological activation or inhibition of TRPM8 causes enhanced uptake of bacterial particles at early time points of infection. In BV2, TRPM8 activation and/or LPS-signaling alters its surface expression and cytosolic ROS production. TRPM8 modulation in the absence and presence of LPS causes differential regulation of cytosolic pH and lysosomal pH. Notably, TRPM8 modulation also alters the correlation between lysosomal pH and cytosolic pH depending on TRPM8 modulation and the presence or absence of LPS. Collectively our data suggest that TRPM8 is involved in the regulation of subcellular organelle, i.e. mitochondrial and lysosomal functions. Data also suggest that primarily TRPM8 activation, but often deviation from endogenous TRPM8 function is linked with better innate immune function mediated by microglial cells. We suggest that TRPM8-mediated regulations of sub-cellular organelle functions are more context-dependent manner. Such understanding is relevant in the context of microglial cell functions and innate immunity.

Autonomic Correlates of Letter Cancelation Task: What the Attention Load May Evoke?

OBJECTIVE: Attention can be assessed through Letter cancelation tasks (LCT) that employ visuospatial selection and appropriate motor responses. We examined the performance in the LCT with increasing attention load, and determined the related autonomic changes. METHODS: Autonomic parameters were estimated in healthy males at baseline and during three different cognitive load conditions using the LCT. RESULTS: Results revealed a statistically significant difference (n = 30) in the percent accuracy (χ2(2) = 15.2, p < .001) and percent omission (χ2(2) = 13.3, p = 0.001) with the increasing challenge in the LCT. The vagally-mediated measures of heart rate variability were significantly decreased with the commencement of the task revealing a parasympathetic withdrawal. The respiratory sinus arrythmia was decreased, and the photoplethysmography amplitude was significantly reduced (χ2(3) = 14.2, p = 0.003) as the attention demand increased. CONCLUSION: The performance declined with the increasing attention load. LCT evokes autonomic perturbations though overall autonomic variability does not change remarkably.

Microstructural, biocompatibility and mechanical investigation of MgHAp and AgHAp: Comparative report.

It is imperative to investigate the effect of addition of different size metallic ions in HAp and study the changes in biocompatibility and mechanical properties. Silver and magnesium ions are two vital ions needed in our body. Silver ions are known to inhibit the microbes, while magnesium ions are known to increase the mechanical properties. The present study reports the comparative properties of MgHAp and AgHAp synthesised by sol-gel wet chemical method. Changes in the morphology, phase analysis, corrosion resistance, dielectric properties, hardness and the thrombus behaviour of HAp doped Ag and Mg ions has been investigated. In this work, we have presented a comparative study of both the metal doped ionsto find which of the ions and which weight percent of the ions can be best suited to be incorporated into the HAp matrix for hard tissue implants. All wt% AgHAp showed the better corrosion resistance than all the MgHAp samples. However, MgHAp showed higher value of hardness in comparison to AgHAp samples. The mechanical strength was found to increase with the increase in Mg wt% in MgHAp but for AgHAp the hardness value decreased with increase in the concentration. The impedance and dielectric loss decreased with increasing frequency for both the samples. Both the ion doped hydroxyapatite showed moderate clotting behaviour as compared to pure HAp. But 2 wt% MgHAp and 4 wt% AgHAp showed better thrombogenic behaviour. It is imperative to investigate the effect of addition of different size metallic ions in HAp and study the changes in biocompatibility and mechanical properties. Silver and magnesium ions are two vital ions needed in our body. Silver ions are known to inhibit the microbes, while magnesium ions are known to increase the mechanical properties. The present study reports the comparative properties of MgHAp and AgHAp synthesised by sol-gel wet chemical method. Changes in the morphology, phase analysis, corrosion resistance, dielectric properties, hardness and the thrombus behaviour of HAp doped Ag and Mg ions has been investigated. In this work we have presented a comparative study of both the metal doped ions to find which of the ions and which weight percent of the ions can be best suited to be incorporated into the HAp matrix for hard tissue implants. All wt% AgHAp showed the better corrosion resistance than all the MgHAp samples. However, MgHAp showed higher value of hardness in comparison to AgHAp samples. The mechanical strength was found to increase with the increase in Mg wt% in MgHAp but for AgHAp the hardness value decreased with increase in the concentration. The impedance and dielectric loss decreased with increasing frequency for both the samples. Both the ion doped hydroxyapatite showed moderate clotting behaviour as compared to pure HAp. But 2 wt% MgHAp and 4 wt% AgHAp showed better thrombogenic behaviour.

Risk factors of osteoporosis in soldiers of the Armed Forces: A cross-sectional study from Western India.

Background: Osteoporosis may result from risk factors such as smoking, alcohol, low body mass index, less physical exercise, and dietary calcium deficiency. The risk of osteoporosis fractures can be reduced with lifestyle changes, which include diet, exercise, and preventing falls. The present study is an effort to measure the burden of risk factors of osteoporosis in adult male soldiers in the Armed Forces. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study among serving soldiers in South-Western part of India, and 400 participants consented to be included in the study. After obtaining informed consent, the questionnaire was distributed. Venous blood samples were collected to measure serum calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Results: The prevalence of vitamin D3 severe deficiency (<10 ng/mL) was 38.5%, and the prevalence of vitamin D3 deficiency (10-19 ng/mL) was 33%. Low serum calcium (<8.4 mg/dL) and serum phosphorus (<2.5 mg/dL) were found among 19.5% and 11.5%, respectively, whereas a raised serum PTH level (>66.5 pg/mL) was seen in 5.5% of the participants. A statistically significant association was found between consumption of milk and milk products and levels of calcium. With a cutoff value of 20 ng/mL for vitamin D3 deficiency, a statistically significant association was found for consumption of fish, physical activity, and sun exposure. Conclusion: A remarkably large percentage of otherwise normal healthy soldiers have deficiency or insufficiency of vitamin D and might be prone to osteoporosis. Despite significant advances in our understanding and management options for male osteoporosis, there still remain important gaps in knowledge which needs to be looked into.

Evaluation of potential toxic heavy metal contamination in soil, fly ash, vegetables and grain crops along with associated ecological and health risk assessment of nearby inhabitants of a thermal power station in Jharkhand (India).

The present study aimed to evaluate the potential toxic heavy metal (PTHM) concentrations and associated ecological and health risk of nearby inhabitants (child and adult populations) of the Bokaro thermal power station (BTPS), Jharkhand, India. The fly ash containing PTHMs is released from the thermal power plant and contaminates the soil of the nearby agricultural area, roadside area and residential area. Furthermore, PTHMs cause ecological risk as well as carcinogenic health effects in adults. Inhabitants are exposed to PTHMs through exposure pathways (for instance, direct ingestion, dermal contact and air inhalation), and PTHMs were examined in this study by calculating the estimated daily intake (EDI). The contamination factor (Cf) of Cd exceeded the threshold value throughout the study area, whereas the Cf of Hg was observed higher only in roadside soil (RSS). The geoaccumulation index (Igeo) of Cd was higher in the top soil of agricultural soil (AS) (7.39) and RSS (9.38). The level of PTHMs was monitored slightly higher in the topsoil of RSS. The ecological risk index (Eri) was detected to be the highest in RSS (1628.9). The permissible limit of Cd (0.05 mg kg-1) and Pb (0.1 mg kg-1) for all sampled vegetables and grain crops was surpassed. The transfer factor (TF) of the studied vegetables and grain crops was in the order of Cd > Cr > Pb > Hg > As. The results of the present study concluded that the hazard quotient (HQ) values for all PTHMs analysed in soil throughout the study area were < 1, which indicates that the child population was within the safe limit. However, the adult population was at a high risk of non-carcinogenic health effects due to increased permissible limits of Cd, Pb and Cr in vegetables and grain crops whereas the target carcinogenic risk (TCR) of Pb and Cr was higher and indicated that there may be a health risk of cancer in adults.

Role of jasmonate signaling in the regulation of plant responses to nutrient deficiency.

Phytohormones regulate plant growth and development by integrating various internal developmental cues with external environmental conditions. Jasmonic acid (JA) is an oxylipin-derived phytohormone that modulates the plasticity of plant responses against fluctuating environmental cues. An increasing number of studies have shown that it regulates a wide spectrum of plant physiological and biochemical processes, including reproductive development, primary root growth, root hair development, seed germination, senescence, regeneration, defense against biotic stress such as pathogen infection and herbivory, and mitigation of a number of abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought, high and low temperatures, wounding, excessive UV exposure, limited water availability, and metal(oid)-induced toxicity. Nutrient deficiency is an abiotic stress that adversely affects plant growth, development, and productivity, and JA also plays an important role in regulation of these processes under such conditions. In this review, we summarize recent advances relating to the role of JA and its methyl ester derivative (methyl jasmonate) in modulating responses to nutrient deficiency, to the impact of nutrient status on JA biosynthesis and signaling, and to the crosstalk of JA with other phytohormones in shaping plant growth and development under deficiencies of various mineral elements.

Nipah and Hendra Viruses: Deadly Zoonotic Paramyxoviruses with the Potential to Cause the Next Pandemic.

Nipah and Hendra viruses are deadly zoonotic paramyxoviruses with a case fatality rate of upto 75%. The viruses belong to the genus henipavirus in the family Paramyxoviridae, a family of negative-sense single-stranded RNA viruses. The natural reservoirs of NiV and HeV are bats (flying foxes) in which the virus infection is asymptomatic. The intermediate hosts for NiV and HeV are swine and equine, respectively. In humans, NiV infections result in severe and often fatal respiratory and neurological manifestations. The Nipah virus was first identified in Malaysia and Singapore following an outbreak of encephalitis in pig farmers and subsequent outbreaks have been reported in Bangladesh and India almost every year. Due to its extreme pathogenicity, pandemic potential, and lack of established antiviral therapeutics and vaccines, research on henipaviruses is highly warranted so as to develop antivirals or vaccines that could aid in the prevention and control of future outbreaks.

Function and regulation of thermosensitive ion channel TRPV4 in the immune system.

Transient receptor potential vanilloid sub-type 4 (TRPV4) is a six transmembrane protein that acts as a non-selective Ca2+ channel. Notably, TRPV4 is present in almost all animals, from lower eukaryotes to humans and is expressed in diverse tissue and cell types. Accordingly, TRPV4 is endogenously expressed in several types of immune cells that represent both innate and adaptive immune systems of higher organism. TRPV4 is known to be activated by physiological temperature, suggesting that it acts as a molecular temperature sensor and thus plays a key role in temperature-dependent immune activation. It is also activated by diverse endogenous ligands, lipid metabolites, physical and mechanical stimuli. Both expression and function of TRPV4 in various immune cells, including T cells and macrophages, are also modulated by multiple pro- and anti-inflammatory compounds. The results from several laboratories suggest that TRPV4 is involved in the immune activation, a phenomenon with evolutionary significance. Because of its diverse engagement in the neuronal and immune systems, TRPV4 is a potential therapeutic target for several immune-related disorders.

In Silico Evaluation of Natural Flavonoids as a Potential Inhibitor of Coronavirus Disease.

The recent coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Wuhan, China, has led to millions of infections and the death of approximately one million people. No targeted therapeutics are currently available, and only a few efficient treatment options are accessible. Many researchers are investigating active compounds from natural plant sources that may inhibit COVID-19 proliferation. Flavonoids are generally present in our diet, as well as traditional medicines and are effective against various diseases. Thus, here, we reviewed the potential of flavonoids against crucial proteins involved in the coronavirus infectious cycle. The fundamentals of coronaviruses, the structures of SARS-CoV-2, and the mechanism of its entry into the host's body have also been discussed. In silico studies have been successfully employed to study the interaction of flavonoids against COVID-19 Mpro, spike protein PLpro, and other interactive sites for its possible inhibition. Recent studies showed that many flavonoids such as hesperidin, amentoflavone, rutin, diosmin, apiin, and many other flavonoids have a higher affinity with Mpro and lower binding energy than currently used drugs such as hydroxylchloroquine, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and lopinavir. Thus, these compounds can be developed as specific therapeutic agents against COVID-19, but need further in vitro and in vivo studies to validate these compounds and pave the way for drug discovery.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and associated learning difficulties among primary school children in district Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.

BACKGROUND: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a considerably common childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder, often associated with socio-behavioral and academic difficulties. There is an increased risk for development of a range of future problems such as psychiatric disorders, difficulties in employment, and relationships. The aim of this study was to know the prevalence and determinants of ADHD among primary school children in district Dehradun and to assess the learning difficulties and classroom behavior in these students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, overall, 228 students (aged 6-12 years) studying in a primary school were assessed for ADHD after seeking the written informed consent from their parents. The data were analyzed using Excel sheet and SPSS software (22.0 version). For all qualitative measures, frequency and percentages were calculated, and for quantitative measures, mean and standard deviation were calculated. For analysis of categorical values, Chi-square test was used. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of ADHD was found to be 11.8% based on the teacher tool only and 1.75% based on the parent and teacher tools combined. ADHD was found to be significantly more in males. Inattention was the most prevalent subtype of ADHD, and children screened positive for ADHD had significant learning difficulties at various levels. CONCLUSION: The possibility of ADHD in students with academic difficulties should not be ignored as children with ADHD usually face significant problems at school such as learning difficulties and have been shown to be at increased risk for a broad range of negative outcomes. Early identification and treatment of ADHD can significantly reduce the rates of some of these poor outcomes. Screening these children in the early years will help the parents, children, teachers, and community at large.

Functionality of apigenin as a potent antioxidant with emphasis on bioavailability, metabolism, action mechanism and in vitro and in vivo studies: A review.

Numerous diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative diseases, etc. are linked with overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. Apigenin (5,7,4'-trihydroxyflavone) is a widely distributed flavonoid, responsible for antioxidant potential and chelating redox active metals. Being present as glycosides or polymers, the apigenin degrades to variable amount in the digestive tract; during processing, its activity is also reduced due to high temperature or Fe/Cu addition. Although its metabolism remains elusive, enteric absorption occurs sufficiently to reduce plasma indices of oxidant status. Delayed clearance in plasma and slow liver decomposition enhance its systematic bioavailability. Antioxidant mechanism of apigenin includes: oxidant enzymes inhibition, modulation of redox signaling pathways (NF-kB, Nrf2, MAPK, and P13/Akt), reinforcing enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant, metal chelation, and free radical scavenging. DPPH, ORAC, ABTS, and FRAP are the major in vitro methods for determining the antioxidant potential of apigenin, whereas its protective effects in whole and living cells of animals are examined using in vivo studies. Due to limited information on antioxidant potential of apigenin, its in vitro and in vivo antioxidant effects are, therefore, discussed with action mechanism and interaction with the signaling pathways. This paper concludes that apigenin is a potent antioxidant compound to overcome the difficulties related to oxidative stress and other chronic diseases.

COVID-19 and childhood obesity (CO-BESITY) in the era of new normal life: A need for a policy research.

BACKGROUND: In the era of new normal life after Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), our children are experiencing the double threat of COVID-19 and Childhood Obesity (CO-BESITY). The rate of childhood obesity has been rapidly increasing in developed as well as low middle-income countries during the pandemic. DESIGN AND METHODS: The current paper aims to identify the probable reasons of increase in childhood obesity during this pandemic and offers suggestions to reduce the burden of it. Literature search was done using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases for the key terms "childhood obesity," "obesity," "pandemic," and/or childhood obesity. All the relevant articles were included to support the argument for this viewpoint. RESULTS: Childhood obesity is a complicated disorder having diverse outcomes. The incidence of childhood obesity is analysed from Bronfenbrenner's model of child development. The model examines an overabundance of bio-psycho-social backgrounds, risks, and probable outcomes on the development of a child. COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the ecosystem of this dynamic model and has created an economic and social-cultural crisis that has ignited a chain reaction of stressors upon children and their families. In this paper, we have described how this Bronfenbrenner's model of child development also known as the Bioecological Model can be effective for the estimation and prevention of childhood obesity. CONCLUSION: We propose that this Bioecological Model will help the children and their families further understand and manage the problem of childhood obesity during this pandemic on their own.

Effects of diet on hypertensive disorders during pregnancy: A cross-sectional study from a teaching hospital.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy is a positive, fulfilling experience for many, but it can put the mother at the risk of suffering ill-health, disability, or even maternal death. The common causes of maternal death include pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) or gestational hypertension or hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP), post-partum hemorrhage, and pulmonary embolism. Modifications in lifestyle and diet have been widely advocated as a cost-effective strategy to prevent PIH. OBJECTIVES: To assess the role of dietary factors in PIH attending antenatal care services at a teaching hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pregnant women who were attending the antenatal clinic who were diagnosed with hypertension in pregnancy and normotensive before the pregnancy were included in the study. As per the protocol, informed written consent, demographic details with clinical data were obtained from the patients. A total of 225 antenatal cases having hypertension in pregnancy were included in our study. RESULTS: Majority of the study subjects (81.8%) were taking mixed diets, 50.2% consumed additional salt in their diet, the intake history of visible fat was given by 25.3% and 96.4% consumed tea while 52.9% had a history of consuming junk food. Among the 41 vegetarian study subjects with hypertension in pregnancy, the maximum subjects (73.1%) had preeclampsia followed by gestational hypertension in 23.6% the subjects. The relation between the type of diet and hypertension in pregnancy was found to be statistically insignificant. The relation between visible fat consumption and hypertension in pregnancy was found to be statistically significant. DISCUSSION: The association of dietary factors with HDP could be explained by several factors. One being the high-calorie intake by women with known HDP and those without HDP. The imbalance between the energy intake and expenditure is a potential risk factor and leads to overweight or obesity. CONCLUSION: The consumption of additional salt in the diet, visible fat, and obesity was found to be associated with HDP in our study.

Role of vaccine science diplomacy in low-middle-income countries for eradicating the vaccine-preventable diseases: Targeting the "LAST MILE".

The meaning of "vaccine diplomacy (VD)" is defined as "the use of vaccines to increase a country's diplomatic relations and influence over other nations." The golden era of vaccine science diplomacy started during the time of Cold War between the United States (US) and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) with the development of a prototype of oral polio vaccine by the US Scientist Dr Albert Sabin working along with his Soviet counterparts. The foundation stone was already laid down by Edward Jenner when he shared his technique of the smallpox vaccine with other major countries to curb the spread of smallpox. Eventually, such a step led to the eradication of such a deadly disease. Only time has changed, not the tide. Even today, vaccines continue to remain as one of the important tools for achieving Millennium Developmental Goals (MDGs) and other targets in developing countries like India. During the wake of the Corona Virus Diseases-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, India's role in developing its vaccine science diplomacy has been a point of attraction. The phase-3 trial of Covaxin being developed by Bharat Biotech started in Lucknow and Gorakhpur in October 2020, and it is widely considered as the forerunner for the Indian vaccine market. As per the Union Health Ministry of India- "The Union Government is working on at least five distinct ways, ranging from free vaccines to guaranteed supply, in which it can help its immediate neighbours and countries in West Asia, Africa and even Latin America-officials familiar with the plan said on conditions of anonymity. The idea is to leverage the country's standing as the world's vaccine factory to merge diplomatic ties. Historically, it is observed that by the development and introduction of newer vaccines from time to time, many dismaying hurdles to vaccine science diplomacy (VSD) arise from ongoing wars and political instability. The current scenario is that both VSD and VD are at crossroads, and there is a possibility of getting a good direction if we make a piggyback policy approach of vaccine diplomacy along with the foreign policy. The lessons learned from the past must be followed now and, in the future, to make a better world for all. We acknowledge that the COVID-19 episode has again highlighted the dire need for VSD, and we assume that not only COVID-19 but in future, emerging and re-emerging diseases will occur so we have to prepare ourselves for combatting those future emerging and re-emerging diseases.

An Energy-Resolved Optical Non-invasive Device Detects Essential Electrolyte Balance in Humans at Point-of-Care.

Regular monitoring of electrolyte balance is essential for patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those undergoing dialysis. In the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, more severe forms of infection are observed in elderly individuals and patients having co-morbidities like CKD. The repeated blood tests for the monitoring of electrolyte balance predispose them not only to COVID-19 but also other to hospital-acquired infections (HAI). Therefore, a non-invasive method for easy detection of essential electrolyte (K+ and Na+) levels is urgently needed. In this study, we developed an optical emission spectroscopy-based non-invasive device for simultaneous monitoring of salivary Na+ and K+ levels in a fast and reliable way. The device consisted of a closed spark chamber, micro-spectrometer, high voltage spark generator, electronic circuits, optical fiber, and an indigenously developed software based on the LabVIEW platform. The optical emission originating from the biological sample (i.e., saliva) due to recombination of ions energized by impingement of electrons returning from high voltage spark provides necessary information about the concentration of electrolytes. A small-scale clinical trial on 30 healthy human subjects shows the potential of the indigenously developed device in determining salivary Na + and K+ concentration. The low-cost, portable, point-of-care device requires only 2 mL of sample, and can simultaneously measure 1.0-190.0 mM Na+, and 1.0-270.9 mM K+ . To our understanding, the present work will find its relevance in combating COVID-19 morbidities, along with regular CKD patient-care.