Spatiotemporal Coke Coupling Enhances para-Xylene Selectivity in Highly Stable MCM-22 Catalysts.

Identifying zeolite catalysts that can simultaneously optimize p-xylene selectivity and feed utilization is critical to toluene alkylation with methanol (TAM). Here, we show that zeolite MCM-22 (MWW) has an exceptional catalyst lifetime in the TAM reaction at high operating pressure, conversion, and selectivity. We systematically probe the catalytic behavior of active sites in distinct topological features of MCM-22, revealing that high p-xylene yield and catalyst stability are predominantly attributed to sinusoidal channels and supercages, respectively. Using a combination of catalyst design and testing, density functional theory, and molecular dynamics simulations, we propose a spatiotemporal coke coupling phenomenon to explain a multistage p-xylene selectivity profile wherein the formation of light coke in supercages initiates the deactivation of unselective external surface sites. Our findings indicate that the specific nature of coke is critical to catalyst performance. Moreover, they provide unprecedented insight into the synchronous roles of distinct topological features giving rise to the exceptional stability and selectivity of MCM-22 in the TAM reaction.

Finned zeolite catalysts.

There is growing evidence for the advantages of synthesizing nanosized zeolites with markedly reduced internal diffusion limitations for enhanced performances in catalysis and adsorption. Producing zeolite crystals with sizes less than 100 nm, however, is non-trivial, often requires the use of complex organics and typically results in a small product yield. Here we present an alternative, facile approach to enhance the mass-transport properties of zeolites by the epitaxial growth of fin-like protrusions on seed crystals. We validate this generalizable methodology on two common zeolites and confirm that fins are in crystallographic registry with the underlying seeds, and that secondary growth does not impede access to the micropores. Molecular modelling and time-resolved titration experiments of finned zeolites probe internal diffusion and reveal substantial improvements in mass transport, consistent with catalytic tests of a model reaction, which show that these structures behave as pseudo-nanocrystals with sizes commensurate to that of the fin. This approach could be extended to the rational synthesis of other zeolite and aluminosilicate materials.

First results from the XMCD facility at the Energy-Dispersive EXAFS beamline of the Indus-2 synchrotron source.

Setting up of the X-ray Magnetic Circular Dichroism (XMCD) measurement facility with hard X-rays at the Energy-Dispersive EXAFS beamline (BL-08) at the Indus-2 synchrotron source is reported. This includes the design and development of a water-cooled electromagnet having a highest magnetic field of 2 T in a good field volume of 125 mm3 and having a 10 mm hole throughout for passage of the synchrotron beam. This also includes the development of an (X-Z-θ) motion stage for the heavy electromagnet for aligning its axis and the beam hole along the synchrotron beam direction. Along with the above developments, also reported is the first XMCD signal measured on a thick Gd film in the above set-up which shows good agreement with the reported results. This is the first facility to carry out XMCD measurement with hard X-rays in India.

Recent advances in immuno-based methods for the detection of Ralstonia solanacearum.

Ralstonia solanacearum (RS) is a widely recognized phytopathogenic bacterium which is responsible for causing devastating losses in a wide range of economically significant crops. Timely and accurate detection of this pathogen is pivotal to implementing effective disease management strategies and preventing crop losses. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in immuno-based detection methods for RS. The review begins by introducing RS, highlighting its destructive potential and the need for point-of-care detection techniques. Subsequently, it explores traditional detection methods and their limitations, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches. The main focus of this review is on immuno-based detection methods and it discusses recent advancements in serological detection techniques. Furthermore, the review sheds light on the challenges and prospects of immuno-based detection of RS. It emphasizes the importance of developing rapid, field-deployable assays that can be used by farmers and researchers alike. In conclusion, this review provides valuable insights into the recent advances in immuno-based detection methods for RS.

Development of antibody to virulence factor flagellin and its evaluation in screening Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum.

The bacterial wilt disease caused by Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum presents a notable economic risk to a variety of crucial crops worldwide. During preliminary isolation of this phytopathogen, several colonies of other saprophytic bacteria may be mistaken with it. So, the present study aims to address this issue by proposing the application of immunogenic proteins, particularly flagellin (FliC), to enable a rapid and early identification of bacterial wilt. In this study, a novel approach is unveiled for the early detection of R. pseudosolanacearum. The study exploits the immunogenic attributes of flagellin (FliC), by generating polyclonal antibodies against recombinant FliC within model organisms-rabbits and mice. The efficacy of these antibodies is meticulously assessed through discerning techniques, including DAS-ELISA and Western blot analyses, which elucidate their remarkable specificity in identifying various R. pseudosolanacearum strains. Furthermore, the introduction of antibody-coated latex agglutinating reagents offers an additional layer of confirmation, substantiating the feasibility of establishing a laboratory-based toolkit for swift screening and unambiguous identification of the bacterial wilt pathogen. This study presents a significant stride toward enhancing early diagnostic capabilities, potentially revolutionizing agricultural practices by safeguarding crop yield and quality through proactive pathogen detection and mitigation strategies.

An Artificial Intelligence Driven Approach for Classification of Ophthalmic Images using Convolutional Neural Network: An Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND: Early disease detection is emphasized within ophthalmology now more than ever, and as a result, clinicians and innovators turn to deep learning to expedite accurate diagnosis and mitigate treatment delay. Efforts concentrate on the creation of deep learning systems that analyze clinical image data to detect disease-specific features with maximum sensitivity. Moreover, these systems hold promise of early accurate diagnosis and treatment of patients with common progressive diseases. DenseNet, ResNet, and VGG-16 are among a few of the deep learning Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) algorithms that have been introduced and are being investigated for potential application within ophthalmology. METHODS: In this study, the authors sought to create and evaluate a novel ensembled deep learning CNN model that analyzes a dataset of shuffled retinal color fundus images (RCFIs) from eyes with various ocular disease features (cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy). Our aim was to determine (1) the relative performance of our finalized model in classifying RCFIs according to disease and (2) the diagnostic potential of the finalized model to serve as a screening test for specific diseases (cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy) upon presentation of RCFIs with diverse disease manifestations. RESULTS: We found adding convolutional layers to an existing VGG-16 model, which was named as a proposed model in this article that, resulted in significantly increased performance with 98% accuracy (p<0.05), including good diagnostic potential for binary disease detection in cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy. CONCLUSION: The proposed model was found to be suitable and accurate for a decision support system in Ophthalmology Clinical Framework.

The Effect of Timing of Debridement and Surgical Intervention in Open Fractures on the Rate of Infection and Surgical Outcomes: A Prospective Study in a Tertiary Care Setup.

Introduction Open fractures remain one of the true orthopedic emergencies. Despite recent advances in orthopedic surgery, the management of compound fractures is still a challenge to an orthopedic surgeon. Open fractures are a result of high-speed injuries and are associated with several complications such as infections, non-unions, or sometimes an eventual amputation. Infection is the major problem associated with open fractures due to soft tissue damage, contamination, and neurovascular compromise. Presently, management of open fractures requires early aggressive debridement followed by limb salvage by definitive reconstruction or amputation, depending upon the extent and location of the injury. Early aggressive debridement of open fractures has always been the rule. However, it has been observed that open fractures managed even after six hours of injury fare well, and there are no definite guidelines available to decide the safe period of debridement following open fractures so as to prevent infection. The "six-hour rule" is a hotly debated topic with fervent perseverance of this dogma despite a gross lack of support from the literature. Objective The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between the timing of operation/debridement on infection rates in open fractures, particularly if surgery is performed after six hours. Methods This is a prospective study of 124 patients (R=5-75 years) presenting with open fractures to the outpatient department (OPD) and emergency section of a tertiary care hospital from January 2019 to November 2020. Patients were divided into four groups based on the time to operation/debridement: groups A, B, C, and D, with patients operated within six hours, six to 12 hours, 12-24 hours, and 24-72 hours after injury, respectively. Infection rates were obtained based on the above data. ANOVA was applied using SPSS 20 software (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York). Results This study concludes that the infection rate for fractures treated in less than six hours was 18.75%; in the six to 12 hours group, it was 18.50%, and in the 12-24 hours group, it was 14.28%. The infection rate increased to 38.8% if surgery was performed after 24 hours of injury. On statistical analysis, the time to debridement was not found to be a significant factor. The infection rate in Gustilo-Anderson classification compound grade I was 2.7%, grade II 9.8%, grade IIIA 45%, and grade IIIB 61%. Also, in this study, the union rate in grade I was 97.22%, grade II 96.07%, grade IIIA 85%, and grade IIIB 66.66%. Thus, the degree of wound contamination and compounding gives a prognostic indication regarding the final outcome of the compound fracture. Conclusion Time to debridement is not a significant factor in the management of compound fractures, and these fractures can be safely debrided up to 24 hours after injury. Gustilo and Anderson's classification provides a prognostic indicator of the outcome of a compound fracture. Infection rates and non-union rates increase with increasing grades of compound fractures.

Evaluation of IoT-based remote monitoring systems for stand-alone solar PV installations in Kenya.

The deployment of remote monitoring systems based on Internet of Things (IoT) presents an opportunity to curtail operational and maintenance (O&M) costs associated with stand-alone PV systems. This study evaluates the characteristics of the commonly employed IoT platforms, their capabilities and associated O&M cost savings. Analysis of avoided field visit costs based on three remotely monitored solar PV sites is conducted through clustering of system faults and filtering out major ones that would warrant actual site visits. The obtained results are verified with information gathered from four other PV installer companies based in Nairobi, Kenya. Results obtained from the study show that majority of system faults can be monitored and often corrected remotely. Annual site-specific cost savings associated with IoT platforms range from $2040 to $3096. In comparison to ordinarily locally monitored systems, annual operation and maintenance costs can be reduced by 47-95%. This implies that it is now possible to adequately maintain healthy solar PV systems located in remote locations ensuring their longevity and convenience.

Pediatric Osteoarticular Tuberculosis as a Diagnostic Dilemma and a Review of Literature.

Introduction Despite tuberculosis being rampant in the Indian subcontinent, most cases of osteoarticular (OA) tuberculosis (TB) are missed until significant bony destruction has occurred. Initial presentation of extra-pulmonary TB mimics many other disease entities while many diseases mimic TB. This may lead to an incorrect diagnosis and sometimes creates a dilemma in reaching the correct diagnosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate a series of pediatric cases of osteoarticular TB, which posed a diagnostic challenge to us. Material and methods Retrospective analysis of case records of pediatric OA-TB patients who had presented to two tertiary level centers of urban India between February 2016 and December 2020 was done. There were a total of 69 patients.  Observations There were 37 males and 32 females. The age range was from two to 17 years. Forty-four patients showed evidence of disease within the spine (dorsal region followed by lumbar, followed by the cervical spine), 16 showed disease of the extremities, six had disease of the girdle bones, and three showed disease of the short bones of hands or foot. In our series, patients presented to us between 15 days to six months from the onset of symptoms. From our series, six cases with atypical clinical pictures have been selected for presentation purposes. In all six cases, the initial presentation was not that of OA-TB. However, with a high degree of suspicion, differential diagnosis of TB was kept in mind, and the diagnosis was confirmed microbiologically. Conclusion A high degree of suspicion is required to avoid missing the diagnosis of osteoarticular TB. Non-invasive advanced radiological investigations such as MRI and microbiological analysis of biopsy specimens aid in arriving at the correct diagnosis.

A deep learning approach for classification of COVID and pneumonia using DenseNet-201.

In the present paper, our model consists of deep learning approach: DenseNet201 for detection of COVID and Pneumonia using the Chest X-ray Images. The model is a framework consisting of the modeling software which assists in Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Compliance which protects and secures the Protected Health Information . The need of the proposed framework in medical facilities shall give the feedback to the radiologist for detecting COVID and pneumonia though the transfer learning methods. A Graphical User Interface tool allows the technician to upload the chest X-ray Image. The software then uploads chest X-ray radiograph (CXR) to the developed detection model for the detection. Once the radiographs are processed, the radiologist shall receive the Classification of the disease which further aids them to verify the similar CXR Images and draw the conclusion. Our model consists of the dataset from Kaggle and if we observe the results, we get an accuracy of 99.1%, sensitivity of 98.5%, and specificity of 98.95%. The proposed Bio-Medical Innovation is a user-ready framework which assists the medical providers in providing the patients with the best-suited medication regimen by looking into the previous CXR Images and confirming the results. There is a motivation to design more such applications for Medical Image Analysis in the future to serve the community and improve the patient care.

A deep learning system for prostate cancer diagnosis and grading in whole slide images of core needle biopsies.

Gleason grading, a risk stratification method for prostate cancer, is subjective and dependent on experience and expertise of the reporting pathologist. Deep Learning (DL) systems have shown promise in enhancing the objectivity and efficiency of Gleason grading. However, DL networks exhibit domain shift and reduced performance on Whole Slide Images (WSI) from a source other than training data. We propose a DL approach for segmenting and grading epithelial tissue using a novel training methodology that learns domain agnostic features. In this retrospective study, we analyzed WSI from three cohorts of prostate cancer patients. 3741 core needle biopsies (CNBs) received from two centers were used for training. The κquad (quadratic-weighted kappa) and AUC were measured for grade group comparison and core-level detection accuracy, respectively. Accuracy of 89.4% and κquad of 0.92 on the internal test set of 425 CNB WSI and accuracy of 85.3% and κquad of 0.96 on an external set of 1201 images, was observed. The system showed an accuracy of 83.1% and κquad of 0.93 on 1303 WSI from the third institution (blind evaluation). Our DL system, used as an assistive tool for CNB review, can potentially improve the consistency and accuracy of grading, resulting in better patient outcomes.

Premature ejaculation - current concepts in the management: A narrative review.

Premature ejaculation (PE; early ejaculation or rapid ejaculation) is a common sexual problem affecting about 20-30% of men in the sexually active age group. PE can be of four types: Primary, secondary, natural variable, and subjective PE. Various non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options are available to treat PE including Dapoxetine, which is specifically developed for the treatment of PE. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology and management aspects of PE.

Spina Ventosa: An often Missed Diagnosis.

Rare and varied presentations of tuberculosis make it difficult for treating clinicians to arrive at the diagnosis. An adolescent female presented to the orthopedic outpatient department with slowly increasing swelling over the dorsum of the hand near the base of the third digit for 5 months. With multiple consultations, she was being treated with antibiotics as a case of abscess. On examination, the swelling was soft bulging with whitish watery discharge. Plain radiography revealed periosteal elevation with bony destruction of the proximal phalanx. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed signal intensity changes with collection suggestive of infection. Blood investigations were within the normal limits, except slightly raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate. A differential diagnosis of chronic osteomyelitis was performed. Since the swelling was growing with the overlying skin likely to give way, it was treated with incision and drainage. Cytology with Gram's and auramine staining helped in confirming the diagnosis of spina ventosa. Biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis, and antitubercular therapy forms the mainstay of treatment.

Mitral valve leaflet diverticulum with vegetation-a rare complication in rheumatic heart disease.

Diverticulum of mitral leaflet is a rare complication, which is recognized by its central clearing with characteristic diastolic collapse and systolic expansion on echocardiogram. It is found to be commonly associated with infective endocarditis while various other mechanisms of its formation have been suggested. The present case with an underlying history of rheumatic heart disease complicated by infective endocarditis well demonstrates the formation of mitral leaflet diverticulum and its possible complications. Surgical findings revealed diverticulum of the anterior mitral leaflet, and the patient underwent double valve replacement.

Multiple Bony Deformities and Short Stature in a Child with Lamellar Ichthyosis, What more can we do? A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION: Ichthyosis is a group of disorders typically characterized by the accumulation of large scales over the skin. Mild bony deformities due to Vitamin D deficiency are commonly associated with this group of disorders which can be successfully treated with conventional Vitamin D supplementation. Severe multiple bony deformities requiring surgical correction are rarely reported and may be associated with various other disorders. CASE REPORT: We report a case of a 15-year-old male with ichthyosis, short stature, and progressive multiple bony deformities since birth. The child was started on Vitamin D3 supplementation. Once biochemical parameters improved he underwent multiple corrective osteotomies in the bilateral tibia and right femur to improve gait mechanics. Our main concerns while managing the patient were regarding wound healing, secondary infection due to extensive scaling and healing at the osteotomy site. On follow-up we noted good healing at the osteotomy site without any surgical site infection or skin complications as well as improvement in gait mechanics and cosmesis. CONCLUSION: Severe bony deformities due to Vitamin D deficient are rare in ichthyosis and other syndromic causes should be ruled out. Surgical management can be beneficial in improving quality of life and gait biomechanics.

Difficulties Encountered While Using PPE Kits and How to Overcome Them: An Indian Perspective.

Background After a slow start due to an effective lockdown, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in India has been raging at a rapid pace, posing a formidable challenge to the healthcare system in the country. The personal protective equipment (PPE) undoubtedly provides a shield of protection for the healthcare workers (HCWs) fighting the disease as a valuable asset to the nation. However, there have been various problems associated with the PPE, ranging from its shortage to problems arising from heat, dehydration, etc while wearing them. There is a need to assess these problems faced by HCWs both qualitatively and quantitatively for their timely and effective redressal. Methods An electronic questionnaire survey was conducted among a cohort of HCWs who had performed COVID-19 duties and used PPE kits. The cohort consisted of different categories of doctors, nursing personnel, and other paramedical staff. Results The most common problems associated with using PPE kits was excessive sweating (100%), fogging of goggles, spectacles, or face shields (88%), suffocation (83%), breathlessness (61%), fatigue (75%), headache due to prolonged use (28%), and pressure marks on the skin at one or more areas on repeated use (19%). Occasional problems reported were skin allergy/dermatitis caused by the synthetic material of the PPE kit, face shield impinging onto the neck during intubation, and nasal pain, pain at the root of the pinna, and slipperiness of shoe covers. Various ways and means have been employed by the HCWs to actively address and solve these problems. Conclusion These plausible solutions will definitely help the HCWs to deal with and solve the problems arising out of the PPE use.

Results of Modified Ponseti Technique in Difficult Clubfoot and a review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Serial Ponseti casting achieves deformity correction in early presenting idiopathic clubfoot cases normally in around 7 casts. However, there are resistant patients where correction requires more casts than usual. In such patients a modification in standard technique might be required right from the beginning. Such patients were collectively called as difficult clubfoot. The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of our modification to Ponseti technique in difficult clubfoot. METHODS: All idiopathic clubfoot cases who were 75th percentile or more in WHO age for weight chart (chubby infants) or untreated clubfoot patients presenting for first time to our clinic at more than 5 months age (late presenters and neglected cases) were included in the study. Patients who had been previously surgically intervened elsewhere, patients over 7 years of age, patients with syndromic clubfoot or clubfoot associated with neurological conditions were excluded from the study. The patients were treated by early tenotomy of tendoachillis and a plantar fascia release before starting serial casting by Ponseti technique. Post correction, strict bracing protocol was followed with regular follow up. Pirani scoring was done at each stage. Measurement of Talocalcaneal angle on AP radiograph, maximum degree of abduction and dorsiflexion was noted once every year. RESULTS: There were total 28 patients in our study. In all, 47 feet were subjected to modified Ponseti protocol. There were 21 male patients. Median age at presentation was 4 months. Mean centile of weight for age as per WHO growth chart was 64. Mean Pirani score at presentation was 5.86 (S.D. ±â€¯0.34). Mean number of casts required for correction was 3.75 ±â€¯1.10. Maximum followup period was 25 months. CONCLUSION: This modification of Ponseti casting for difficult clubfoot patients achieves correction in shorter duration with less number of casts.

Nwdps protocol - A simple functional outcome assessment tool for clubfoot correction and a review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Various clubfoot severity scoring systems are known to us. Dimeglio and Pirani Scoring systems are most widely used. Also, various treatment outcome measures have been proposed by researchers to assess patient satisfaction and results of treatment. None of the available methods are widely popular and amenable for routine use. A "nwdps protocol" was proposed for functional assessment of patients with clubfoot correction, where "n" was no pain during walking or running; "w" was ability to wear normal shoes; "d" was no significant difference in foot/shoe size of both sides; "p" was plantigrade foot and "s" was ability of the child to squat without heel lift-off. The aim of this study was to test this functional outcome assessment tool for easy day to day use post clubfoot correction. METHODS: The nwdps protocol was applied to all the children at followup on a yearly basis who underwent clubfoot deformity correction in Department of Orthopaedics of our Institute between March 2016 and January 2018. RESULTS: Eighty children were enrolled for the study, 45 had bilateral affection while 35 had unilateral affection. In all 125 feet were treated for clubfoot correction and evaluated using nwdps protocol. Each child was assessed by 2 researchers independently. There was no difference in functional assessment of 2 observers. Fifty-nine children were nwdp positive, one was nwps positive, while 2 were dwps positive at the end of 1 year. 79 children became nwdps positive at the end of 2nd year of followup. CONCLUSION: Nwdps protocol is a very easy to remember and easy to use functional outcome assessment tool post clubfoot correction with high degree of objectivity and interobserver reliability. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Acidic Polysaccharides as Green Alternatives for Barite Scale Dissolution.

Barium sulfate (barite) scale poses significant challenges for processes ranging from water treatment to fossil fuel production. Here, we identify alginate (a polysaccharide derived from brown algae) as a potent, "green" alternative to commercial barite demineralizing agents. Unlike conventional treatments of inorganic scales that require caustic conditions, alginate polymers dissolve barite at near-neutral conditions. In this study, we benchmark the demineralizing efficacy of alginate against a commercial dissolver, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), using a combination of bulk dissolution assays, scanning probe microscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations. Time-resolved rates of dissolution measured in a microfluidic device show that demineralization is enhanced more than an order of magnitude under flow. In situ atomic force microscopy reveals that alginate and DTPA exhibit distinct mechanisms of surface dissolution; and surprisingly, their binary combination in alkaline media results in a synergistic cooperativity that enhances the overall rate of barite dissolution. These studies collectively demonstrate a unique approach to demineralization using an inexpensive and abundant biopolymer that enables environmentally friendly treatment of inorganic scales.

Need for mobile application for disability assessment in India.

INTRODUCTION: Disability can be by birth or by any tragic event in life or medical illness. Such differently abled persons can become a valuable asset to the nation rather than a liability if we properly quantify their disabilities and help them rehabilitate into jobs best suited for them. The aim of this study was to develop a mobile application for easy quantification of disability of a differently abled person according to the latest Government of India guidelines. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Government of India Gazette notification of January 2018 spells out revised guidelines approved by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for calculation of disabilities of differently abled persons. These were first converted into a spreadsheet, workflow, and interface modules. Subsequently, they were coded into a mobile application using a simple web language. RESULTS: The result is an android App that can be downloaded from Google Play Store for free use. The rigorous testing of the App with all possible combination of input values was done to weed out errors. The results through the App were compared against manual calculation used as a control for validation purposes. CONCLUSION: To bring about uniformity, objectivity, ease in disability calculation for a large population of differently abled persons, a mobile App is truly justified.