From genome to clinic: The power of translational bioinformatics in improving human health.

Translational bioinformatics (TBI) has transformed healthcare by providing personalized medicine and tailored treatment options by integrating genomic data and clinical information. In recent years, TBI has bridged the gap between genome and clinical data because of significant advances in informatics like quantum computing and utilizing state-of-the-art technologies. This chapter discusses the power of translational bioinformatics in improving human health, from uncovering disease-causing genes and variations to establishing new therapeutic techniques. We discuss key application areas of bioinformatics in clinical genomics, such as data sources and methods used in translational bioinformatics, the impact of translational bioinformatics on human health, and how machine learning and artificial intelligence are being used to mine vast amounts of data for drug development and precision medicine. We also look at the problems, constraints, and ethical concerns connected with exploiting genomic data and the future of translational bioinformatics and its potential impact on medicine and human health. Ultimately, this chapter emphasizes the great potential of translational bioinformatics to alter healthcare and enhance patient outcomes.

Technological advancements in viral vector designing and optimization for therapeutic applications.

Viral vector engineering is critical to the advancement of several sectors of biotechnology, gene therapy, and vaccine development. These vectors were produced from viruses, were employed to deliver therapeutic genes or to alter biological processes. The potential for viral vectors to improve the precision, safety, and efficiency of therapeutic interventions has boosted their demand. The dynamic interplay between technological advancements and computational tools in establishing the landscape of viral vector engineering and vector optimization for therapeutic reasons is discussed in this chapter. It also emphasizes the importance of in silico techniques in maximizing vector potential for therapeutics and many phases of viral vector engineering, from genomic analysis to computer modelling and advancements to improve precise gene delivery. High-throughput screening propels the expedited process of vector selection, and computational techniques to analyze complex omics data to further enhance vector capabilities have been discussed. As in silico models reveal insights into off-target effects and integration sites, vector safety (biodistribution and toxicity) remains a crucial part and bridges the gap between preclinical and clinical investigations. Despite the limitations, this chapter depicts a future in which technology and computing merge to catapult viral vector therapy into an era of boundless possibilities.

Segmental Abdominal Paresis Attributed to Herpes Zoster Infection Mimicking an Abdominal Hernia: An Interesting Case From a Surgical Unit of a Tertiary Healthcare Center.

The varicella-zoster virus reactivates to cause herpes zoster, commonly referred to as shingles. Shingles traditionally manifest as itchy vesicles in a dermatomal distribution, accompanied by related constitutional symptoms in immunocompetent patients. Usually, the rash resolves completely in seven to ten days. Herpetic neuralgia is the most typical herpes zoster consequence. Around 1% to 5% of individuals have motor impairments, with Ramsay-Hunt syndrome being the most prevalent ailment. Additional problems encompass abdominal pseudohernia, paralytic ileus/colonic pseudo-obstruction, hemidiaphragm paralysis, bladder dysfunction, localized paresis, constipation, and visceral neuropathy. Herpes zoster infection typically involves the posterior root ganglia, and most of the symptoms are sensory. Motor involvement can occur in the same distribution but is relatively uncommon. Segmental zoster paresis is a rare motor complication of herpes zoster, mimicking an abdominal hernia, which has an incidence of approximately 0.7%, but it needs no surgery different from the real abdominal wall hernia. In this case report, we describe a patient who, three weeks after developing a herpes zoster rash, acquired an abdominal protrusion, i.e., herpes-induced pseudohernia.

Traumatic subcutaneous emphysema following blood donation: A case report.

BACKGROUND: Subcutaneous emphysema is a condition where air becomes trapped under the skin, typically resulting from surgery or skin trauma. It is mostly localized and its occurrence in blood donors is exceedingly rare. Phlebotomy poses minimal risk of subcutaneous emphysema, but procedural errors may lead to such complications. STUDY DESIGN AND METHOD: This is a case report of 29-year-old repeat blood donor who experienced subcutaneous emphysema following blood donation. The donor was vigorously squeezing sponge ball during donation resulting in displacement of the needle which required readjustment. Post-donation, the donor reported a crackling sensation and mild swelling near phlebotomy site. Non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scans confirmed subcutaneous emphysema, attributing its development to air trapping in subcutaneous plane due to ball valve mechanism. RESULTS: Computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed subcutaneous emphysematous changes in the right cubital region and no evidence of hematoma. The swelling spontaneously subsided in 10-12 days without any intervention. The case underscores the importance of differentiating subcutaneous emphysema from common complications like hematoma. DISCUSSION: Subcutaneous emphysema in blood donors is exceptionally rare but should be managed with clear communication. Donors should be reassured that the condition, although rare, is benign and self-resolving. Healthcare providers should be equipped to handle such rare complications, offering appropriate care and documenting incidents for future prevention.

Application of functional proteomics in understanding RNA virus-mediated infection.

Together with the expansion of genome sequencing research, the number of protein sequences whose function is yet unknown is increasing dramatically. The primary goals of functional proteomics, a developing area of study in the realm of proteomic science, are the elucidation of the biological function of unidentified proteins and the molecular description of cellular systems at the molecular level. RNA viruses have emerged as the cause of several human infectious diseases with large morbidity and fatality rates. The introduction of high-throughput sequencing tools and genetic-based screening approaches over the last few decades has enabled researchers to find previously unknown and perplexing elements of RNA virus replication and pathogenesis on a scale never feasible before. Viruses, on the other hand, frequently disrupt cellular proteostasis, macromolecular complex architecture or stoichiometry, and post-translational changes to take over essential host activities. Because of these consequences, structural and global protein and proteoform monitoring is highly necessiated. Mass spectrometry (MS) has the potential to elucidate key details of virus-host interactions and speed up the identification of antiviral targets, giving precise data on the stoichiometry of cellular and viral protein complexes as well as mechanistic insights, has lately emerged as a key part of the RNA virus biology toolbox as a functional proteomics approach. Affinity-based techniques are primarily employed to identify interacting proteins in stable complexes in living organisms. A protein's biological role is strongly suggested by its relationship with other members of a certain protein complex that is involved in a particular process. With a particular emphasis on the most recent advancements in defining host responses and their translational implications to uncover novel tractable antiviral targets, this chapter provides insight on several functional proteomics techniques in RNA virus biology.

Antitumor efficacy of synthesized Ag-Au nanocomposite loaded with PEG and ascorbic acid in human lung cancer stem cells.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of mortality worldwide of which non-small cell lung carcinoma constitutes majority of the cases. High mortality is attributed to early metastasis, late diagnosis, ineffective treatment and tumor relapse. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy form the mainstay of its treatment. However, their associated side effects involving kidneys, nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and liver further adds to dismal outcome. These disadvantages of conventional treatment can be circumvented by use of engineered nanoparticles for improved effectiveness with minimal side effects. In this study we have synthesized silver gold nanocomposite (Ag-Au NC) using polyethylene glycol and l-ascorbic acid as surfactant and reducing agent respectively. Synthesized nanocomposite was characterized by ultraviolet-visible absorption, dynamic light scattering, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Compositional analysis was carried out by energy dispersive X-ray analysis and average pore diameter was estimated using Barrett-Joyner-Halenda method. In-silico molecular docking analysis of the synthesized NC against active regions of epidermal growth factor receptor revealed good binding energy. Subsequently, we investigated the effect of NC on growth and stem cell attributes of A549 lung cancer cells. Results showed that NC was effective in inhibiting A549 cell proliferation, induced DNA damage, G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis. Further, tumor cell migration and spheroid formation were also negatively affected. NC also enhanced reactive oxygen species generation and mitochondrial depolarization. In addition, the effect of NC on putative cancer stem cells in A549 cells was evaluated. We found that Ag-Au NC at IC50 targeted CD44, CD24, CD166, CD133 and CD326 positive cancer stem cells and induced apoptosis. CD166 positive cells were relatively resistance to apoptosis. Together our results demonstrate the anticancer efficacy of Ag-Au NC mediated by a mechanism involving cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial derangement.

Nutritional characteristics of Stereospermum chelonoides (L.f.) DC., an underutilized edible wild fruit of dietary interest.

Malnutrition and hunger is a serious global issue, however, wild fruits possess the potential of combatting it being rich in nutrients. Stereospermum chelonoides (L.f.) DC., commonly known as "Patala" in Ayurvedic text, is a large wild tree bearing edible, yet, underutilized fruits consumed by the locals in Western parts of India and neighboring countries. The present study focuses on the nutritional profile of S. chelonoides fruit along with quantification of bioactive constituents using RP-HPLC-PDA and evaluation of in-vitro anti-oxidant and, anti-microbial activity. The fruit was found rich in nutritional composition having protein (2.41 % ± 0.007), fibre (3.46 % ± 0.02) and carbohydrate (90.19 % ± 1.73) with energy value of 368.2 ± 3.94 Kcal/100g. The elemental analysis of fruit resulted in macronutrients Ca, Mg and Na and micronutrients Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu in amounts comparable to common marketed fruits. The RP-HPLC-PDA analysis revealed the presence of six phenolic compounds in all 3 extracts made from the fruit in which highest amount are present in hydro-alcoholic extract. All the extracts exhibited potent antioxidant activity evaluated through DPPH assay and oxygen radical absorbing capacity (ORAC), with highest activity in hydro-alcoholic extract. All the analyzed extracts also exhibited potent inhibition, against four human pathogens namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholerae, Escherichia coli, and Shigella flexneri. Therefore, it is evident from the study that the fruit of S. chelonoides has immense potential as a nutraceutical supplement and may help in the management of nutrient deficiency and malnutrition among rural and tribal communities.

Peptide-ligand conjugate based immunotherapeutic approach for targeted dismissal of non-structural protein 1 of dengue virus: A novel therapeutic solution for mild and severe dengue infections.

Dengue virus infection has significantly increased, with reported cases soaring from 505,430 in 2000 to 2,809,818 in 2022, emphasizing the need for effective treatments. Among the eleven structural and non-structural proteins of DENV, Non-structural protein 1 (NS1) has emerged as a promising target due to its diverse role in modulating the immune response, inducing vascular leakage, and facilitating viral replication and assembly. Monoclonal antibodies are the sole therapeutics to target NS1, but concerns about their cross-reactivity persist. Given these concerns, our study focuses on designing a novel Peptide Ligand Conjugate (PLC) as a potential alternative immunotherapeutic agent against NS1. This PLC aims to mediate the immune elimination of soluble NS1 and NS1-presenting DENV-infected host cells by pre-existing vaccine-induced immunity. By employing the High Throughput Virtual Screening (HTVS) method, QikProp analysis, and Molecular Dynamics studies, we identified three hits from Asinex Biodesigned Ligands out of 220,177 compounds that show strong binding affinity towards the monoclonal binding site of NS1 protein. After a rigorous analysis of physicochemical characteristics, antigenicity, allergenicity, and toxicity using various servers, we selected two peptides: the minimum epitopic region of the Diphtheria and Tetanus toxins as the peptide components of the PLCs. A non-cleavable, non-reactive oxime linker connected the ligand with the peptide through oxime and amide bonds. DPT vaccine is widely used in dengue-endemic countries, and it has been reported that antibodies titer against MER of Diphtheria toxin and Tetanus toxins persist lifelong in DPT-vaccinated people. Therefore, once the rationally designed PLCs bind to NS1 through the ligands, the peptide will induce an immune response against NS1 by triggering pre-existing DPT antibodies and activating memory cells. This orchestrated immune response will destroy soluble NS1 and NS1-expressing DENV-infected cells, thereby reducing the illness of severe dengue hemorrhagic fever and the DENV infection, respectively. Given the increasing demand for new therapeutics for DENV treatment, further investigation into this novel immune-therapeutic strategy may offer a new avenue for treating mild and severe dengue infections.

Nutritional characterization of an underutilized legume Entada rheedii Spreng. seeds and validation of its folklore uses.

Entada rheedii seeds are a rich source of protein (23.99% ± 0.07), starch (42.04% ± 0.05) and potassium (1670.15 ppm ± 116.732). HPTLC-UV analysis (seeds) reveals galactose in considerable amount, that is, 2.60% ± 0.008. Additionally, the species is low in fat and anti-nutrient metabolites like tannin. Interestingly, the proximates in Entada seeds was found comparable with the commonly consumed legumes like cowpea, green gram, and so on. The species exhibits promising anti-radical, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activity. Data advocates the folklore use of E. rheedii seeds and can be a promising alternative source of dietary nutrition, fortified with medicinal value. Standardization and validation of scientific knowledge will bring such underutilized, low-cost legumes into daily dietary intake and are a promising source for Protein-Energy-Malnutrition.

Dermal Exposure to Vesicating Nettle Agent Phosgene Oxime: Clinically Relevant Biomarkers and Skin Injury Progression in Murine Models.

Phosgene oxime (CX), categorized as a vesicating chemical threat agent, causes effects that resemble an urticant or nettle agent. CX is an emerging potential threat agent that can be deployed alone or with other chemical threat agents to enhance their toxic effects. Studies on CX-induced skin toxicity, injury progression, and related biomarkers are largely unknown. To study the physiologic changes, skin clinical lesions and their progression, skin exposure of SKH-1 and C57BL/6 mice was carried out with vapor from 10 µl CX for 0.5-minute or 1.0-minute durations using a designed exposure system for consistent CX vapor exposure. One-minute exposure caused sharp (SKH-1) or sustained (C57BL/6) decrease in respiratory and heart rate, leading to mortality in both mouse strains. Both exposures caused immediate blanching, erythema with erythematous ring (wheel) and edema, and an increase in skin bifold thickness. Necrosis was also observed in the 0.5-minute CX exposure group. Both mouse strains showed comparative skin clinical lesions upon CX exposure; however, skin bifold thickness and erythema remained elevated up to 14 days postexposure in SKH-1 mice but not in C57BL/6 mice. Our data suggest that CX causes immediate changes in the physiologic parameters and gross skin lesions resembling urticaria, which could involve mast cell activation and intense systemic toxicity. This novel study recorded and compared the progression of skin injury to establish clinical biomarkers of CX dermal exposure in both the sexes of two murine strains relevant for skin and systemic injury studies and therapeutic target identification. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Phosgene oxime (CX), categorized as a vesicating agent, is considered as a potent chemical weapon and is of high military and terrorist threat interest since it produces rapid onset of severe injury as an urticant. However, biomarkers of clinical relevance related to its toxicity and injury progression are not studied. Data from this study provide useful clinical markers of CX skin toxicity in mouse models using a reliable CX exposure system for future mechanistic and efficacy studies.

Subacute Thyroiditis Masking as Fever of Unknown Origin: An Intriguing Case Report.

This study presents a unique case of subacute thyroiditis, which presents as prolonged high-grade fever without any other symptoms except for mild throat pain. A 46-year-old, otherwise healthy male presented with high-grade fever for more than two to three weeks and was found to have hyperthyroidism, with elevated free thyroxine levels (free T4), low thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, elevated c-reactive protein (CRP) an inflammatory marker, and heterogeneous bilateral thyroid nodules on imaging studies. His workup was negative for infectious etiology of fever, thus favoring the diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis as the cause of fever of unknown origin (FUO). This case highlights the importance of considering subacute thyroiditis as a potential etiology in patients with FUO and the significance of a comprehensive workup to guide appropriate management.

Remediation of recalcitrant pollutants in water solution using visible light responsive cerium-doped tungsten trioxide nanoparticles.

In order to attain a solar energy-driven photocatalyst for wastewater remediation, cerium-doped WO3 (W1-xCexO3 with x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, and 0.08) nanoparticles have been synthesized via a chemical co-precipitation technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed that W1-xCexO3 nanoparticles retained their monoclinic structure even after doping. The presence of the vast number of defects produced in the WO3 lattice was corroborated by Raman spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the spherical shape of the nanoparticles with particle size range 50-76 nm. The optical band gap of W1-xCexO3 nanoparticles decreases from 3.07 to 2.36 eV with an increase in x, as confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy confirmed that the minimum rate of recombination was observed for W1-xCexO3 with x = 0.04. Degradation efficiency was explored for methyl violet (MV) and rhodamine-B (Rh-B) with 0.01 g of photocatalyst in a photoreactor chamber having a 200-W xenon lamp as a visible source of light. The results showed that the maximum photo-decolorization towards MV (94%) and rhodamine-B (79.4%) was observed in x = 0.04 sample in just 90 min because of its least recombination rate, highest adsorption capacity, and optimum band edge positions. Intriguingly, it has been observed that the modification with cerium in WO3 nanoparticles enhances the photocatalytic activity by narrowing the band gap and by efficaciously lowering the recombination rate due to electron entrapment by defects produced in the lattice.

Multi-pathogen based chimeric vaccine to fight against COVID-19 and concomitant coinfections.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has proved to be a fatal disease of the year 2020, due to which thousands of people globally have lost their lives, and still, the infection cases are at a high rate. Experimental studies suggested that SARS-CoV-2 interacts with various microorganisms, and this coinfection is accountable for the augmentation of infection severity. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this study, we have designed a multi-pathogen vaccine by involving the immunogenic proteins from S. pneumonia, H. influenza, and M. tuberculosis, as they are dominantly associated with SARS-CoV-2. A total of 8 antigenic protein sequences were selected to predict B-cell, HTL, and CTL epitopes restricted to the most prevalent HLA alleles. The selected epitopes were antigenic, non-allergenic, and non-toxic and were linked with adjuvant and linkers to make the vaccine protein more immunogenic, stable, and flexible. The tertiary structure, Ramachandran plot, and discontinuous B-cell epitopes were predicted. Docking and MD simulation study has shown efficient binding of the chimeric vaccine with the TLR4 receptor. CONCLUSION: The in silico immune simulation analysis has shown a high level of cytokines and IgG after a three-dose injection. Hence, this strategy could be a better way to decrease the disease's severity and could be used as a weapon to prevent this pandemic.

Effective therapy with Bismuth-212 labeled macroaggregated albumin in orthotopic mouse breast tumor models.

Intravascularly administered radiation therapy using beta (ß-)-emitting radioisotopes has relied on either intravenously injected radiolabeled peptides that target cancer or radiolabeled microspheres that are trapped in the tumor following intra-arterial delivery. More recently, targeted intravenous radiopeptide therapies have explored the use of alpha (α)-particle emitting radioisotopes, but microspheres radiolabeled with α-particle emitters have not yet been studied. Here, FDA-approved macroaggregated albumin (MAA) particles were radiolabeled with Bismuth-212 (Bi-212-MAA) and evaluated using clonogenic and survival assays in vitro and using immune-competent mouse models of breast cancer. The in vivo biodistribution of Bi-212-MAA was investigated in Balb/c and C57BL/6 mice with 4T1 and EO771 orthotopic breast tumors, respectively. The same orthotopic breast cancer models were used to evaluate the treatment efficacy of Bi-212-MAA. Our results showed that macroaggregated albumin can be stably radiolabeled with Bi-212 and that Bi-212-MAA can deliver significant radiation therapy to reduce the growth and clonogenic potential of 4T1 and EO771 cells in vitro. Additionally, Bi-212-MAA treatment upregulated γH2AX and cleaved Caspase-3 expression in 4T1 cells. Biodistribution analyses showed 87-93% of the Bi-212-MAA remained in 4T1 and EO771 tumors 2 and 4 h after injection. Following single-tumor treatments with Bi-212-MAA there was a significant reduction in the growth of both 4T1 and EO771 breast tumors over the 18-day monitoring period. Overall, these findings showed that Bi-212-MAA was stably radiolabeled and inhibited breast cancer growth. Bi-212-MAA is an exciting platform to study α-particle therapy and will be easily translatable to larger animal models and human clinical trials.

Biogenic synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of synthesized nanoparticles against the pathogenic fungus Alternaria solani.

In the present study, Trichoderma harzianum culture filtrate (CF) was used as a reducing and capping agent to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in a quick, simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly manner. The effects of different ratios (silver nitrate (AgNO3): CF), pH, and incubation time on the synthesis of Ag NPs were also examined. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectra of the synthesized Ag NPs showed a distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 420 nm. Spherical and monodisperse NPs were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Elemental silver (Ag) was identified in the Ag area peak indicated by energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. The crystallinity of Ag NPs was confirmed by x-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) was used to examine the functional groups present in the CF. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) revealed an average size (43.68 nm), which was reported to be stable for 4 months. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to confirm surface morphology. We also investigated the in vitro antifungal efficacy of biosynthesized Ag NPs against Alternaria solani, which demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on mycelial growth and spore germination. Additionally, microscopic investigation revealed that Ag NP-treated mycelia exhibited defects and collapsed. Apart from this investigation, Ag NPs were also tested in an epiphytic environment against A. solani. Ag NPs were found to be capable of managing early blight disease based on field trial findings. The maximum percentage of early blight disease inhibition by NPs was observed at 40 parts per million (ppm) (60.27%), followed by 20 ppm (58.68%), whereas in the case of the fungicide mancozeb (1,000 ppm), the inhibition was recorded at 61.54%.

Effect of Zn Doping on Structural/Microstructural, Surface Topography, and Dielectric Properties of Bi2Fe4O9 Polycrystalline Nanomaterials.

In the present research work, bismuth ferrite mullite type Bi2Fe4-xZnxO9 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05) nanostructures are prepared by a chemical coprecipitation method and the effect of Zn doping concentration on the structural, surface topography, and dielectric properties is reported. The powder X-ray diffraction pattern of the Bi2Fe4-xZnxO9 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05) nanomaterial shows an orthorhombic crystal structure. Using Scherer's formula, the crystallite sizes of the nanomaterial Bi2Fe4-xZnxO9 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05) have been calculated and found to be 23.54 and 45.65 nm, respectively. The results of the atomic force microscopy (AFM) investigations show that spherical shape nanoparticles have grown and are densely packed around each other. AFM/scanning electron microscopy images, however, also illustrate that spherical nanoparticles transform into nanorod-like nanostructures with an increase in Zn concentrations. The transmission electron micrography images of Bi2Fe4-xZnxO9 (x = 0.05) showed elongated/spherical shape grains homogeneously distributed throughout the inside of the surface of the sample. The dielectric constants of Bi2Fe4-xZnxO9 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.05) materials have been calculated and found to be 32.95 and 55.32. It is found that the dielectric properties improve with an increase in the Zn doping concentration, making it a good potential contender for multifunctional modern technological applications.

A Study on the Clinical Profiles of Patients With Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke) in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Jharkhand.

Introduction Stroke is a devastating and disabling cerebrovascular disease with a significant amount of residual deficit. The prevalence of stroke is in a rising trend in India. Larger studies are needed for the evaluation of risk factors. Material and methods This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the clinical profile of patients with stroke. The demographic details of the patients were taken, comorbidities were noted, and laboratory tests were done. Observation The most common age group who presented with stroke was 61-80 years, followed by 41-60 years, comprising 47% and 46%, respectively. Ischemic stroke was more common (60%) than hemorrhagic stroke (40%). Male patients were more than female patients. Alcohol, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, anemia, and proteinuria were present in the study group. Conclusion Regular evaluation of blood pressure, blood sugar, lipid profile, and proteinuria should be routinely done in patients with diabetes and hypertension who are more than 40 years old.

Effect of platelet counts and activator in platelet-rich plasma on the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, split-head comparison: A randomised, double-blind study.

Background Androgenetic alopecia is a common, chronic, non-scarring alopecia. It is characterised by stepwise miniaturisation of the hair follicles, due to alteration in the hair cycle dynamics, leading to the transformation of terminal hair follicles into a vellus ones. Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil are the only approved drugs for treating this condition. Due to a limited number of effective therapies for androgenetic alopecia, platelet-rich plasma may be an effective alternative treatment. Aims To study the effect of activator in platelet-rich plasma and baseline platelet count in platelet-rich plasma on the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Methods A randomised, double-blind split-head comparative study. The sample size was calculated and randomisation was done. Patients with androgenetic alopecia were allocated into two groups; in the first group, autologous activated platelet-rich plasma was injected in the right half of the affected scalp and autologous non-activated platelet-rich plasma was injected in the left half of the affected scalp and vice versa in the second group. Patients were also categorised on the basis of platelet counts in their platelet-rich plasma in three groups; group A (6-8 lakh/mm3), group B (8.1-10 lakh/mm3) and group C (>10 lakh/mm3). Interventions were done monthly for three months and followed up for the next three months. Effects of interventions were assessed by hair density, hair thickness, patient self-assessment and clinical photography. Results A total of 80 patients were included in the study. Activated platelet-rich plasma produced significant improvement of hair density after four months and hair thickness at 6 months. An increase in platelet count led to a significant increase in hair density and hair thickness after three and four months respectively and a highly significant increase in both parameters at the end of the study. Limitations Long-term follow-up of cases was not done and no measurement of vellus hair count was done. Conclusion There is a significant effect of activator and platelet count of the platelet-rich plasma on hair density as well as hair thickness.

A folded π-system with supramolecularly oriented dipoles: single-component piezoelectric relaxor with NLO activity.

Organic molecules with an active dipole moment have a natural propensity to align in an antiparallel fashion in the solid state, resulting in zero macroscopic polarization. This primary limitation makes the material unresponsive to switching with electric fields, mechanical forces, and to intense laser light. A single-component organic material that bestows macroscopic dipole-driven electro-mechanical and optical functions, e.g., piezoelectric, ferroelectric and nonlinear optical (NLO) activity, is unprecedented due to the design challenges imparted by crystal symmetry and dipole orientations. Herein we report a crystalline organic material that self-assembles with a polar order (P 1), and is endowed with a high piezoelectric coefficient (d 33-47 pm V-1), as well as ferroelectric and Debye-type relaxor properties. In addition, it shows second harmonic generation (SHG) activity, which is more than five times that of the benchmark potassium dihydrogen phosphate. Piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM) images validated electro-mechanical deformations. Piezoresponse force spectroscopy (PFS) studies confirmed a signature butterfly-like amplitude and a phase loop. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a folded supramolecular π-system that manifests unidirectionally oriented dipoles and exhibits piezoelectricity, ferroelectricity, and has excellent ability to generate second harmonic light. These findings can herald new design possibilities based on folded architectures to explore opto-, electro- and mechano-responsive multifaceted functions.