Comparative efficacy of different surgical techniques for pediatric urolithiasis-a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Prior research has assessed a range of surgical treatments for pediatric urolithiasis, emphasizing the necessity of tailor-made therapeutic approaches. These studies also show the adaptability of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), and shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) in managing diverse stone dimensions. The goal of this research was to examine the effectiveness of these varying surgical methods in treating pediatric urolithiasis. Methods: Seven digital databases were explored to gather pertinent studies, following the guidelines established by the PRISMA protocol. The retrieved studies were subsequently scrutinized to draw comparisons between the stone-free rate (SFR) and the rate of complications associated with PCNL, RIRS, and SWL. Results: The SFR evaluation revealed no notable disparity between PCNL and RIRS [odds ratio (OR) 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.67-3.05, P=0.36]. However, it was observed that both PCNL and RIRS outperformed SWL in terms of effectiveness (OR 2.51, 95% CI: 1.19-5.29, P=0.02 and OR 2.42, 95% CI: 1.41-4.14, P=0.001 respectively). Regarding the complication rates, no significant differences were observed among the three surgical methods (OR 0.67, 95% CI: 0.49-1.59, P=0.05), albeit with various forms of complications being reported. Certain studies associated PCNL with an elevated rate of complications, specifically urinary tract infections (UTIs) and severe hematuria. Conclusions: Though PCNL and RIRS demonstrated higher effectiveness than SWL in achieving SFR, there was no significant disparity in the rates of complications across all three procedures. The study underscores the significance of personalized treatment plans, taking into account aspects such as the dimension and location of the stone, along with patient-specific characteristics.

Role of wearable electrochemical biosensors in monitoring renal function biomarkers in sweat: a review.

Real-time detection of renal biomarkers is crucial for immediate and continuous monitoring of kidney function, facilitating early diagnosis and intervention in kidney-related disorders. This proactive approach enables timely adjustments in treatment plans, particularly in critical situations, and enhances overall patient care. Wearable devices emerge as a promising solution, enabling non-invasive and real-time data collection. This comprehensive review investigates numerous types of wearable sensors designed to detect kidney biomarkers in body fluids such as sweat. It critically evaluates the precision, dependability, and user-friendliness of these devices, contemplating their seamless integration into daily life for continuous health tracking. The review highlights the potential influence of wearable technology on individualized renal healthcare and its role in preventative medicine while also addressing challenges and future directions. The review's goal is to provide guidance to academics, healthcare professionals, and technologists working on wearable solutions for renal biomarker detection by compiling the body of current knowledge and advancements.

Evaluating Burn First Aid Knowledge, Practices, and Confidence Levels Among the General Population in Aseer, Saudi Arabia.

Background and objectives Burns represents a significant public health issue globally and in Saudi Arabia, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups. Prompt, evidence-based first aid improves outcomes. This study assessed burn first aid understanding, self-assurance, and information sources among Aseer Region residents. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to 386 individuals using a validated questionnaire, assessing understanding via a 10-item scale and confidence through Likert scales. Associations between variables were examined statistically. Results Most participants (85%; n=330) demonstrated poor first-aid comprehension, and only (1%; n=2) exhibited excellent knowledge. A history of burn exposure correlated with higher knowledge (p=0.039). The Internet was the primary information source (48%; n= 185). Confidence in assisting burn victims was generally low. Conclusions Significant gaps in foundational burn first aid knowledge were identified, necessitating targeted educational interventions disseminated via multiple modalities to strengthen emergency response and optimize outcomes in this region.

Prevalence of clinically significant prostate carcinoma in Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) 3 lesions detected in the peripheral zone on biparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-a local experience.

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine whether biparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is effective in the diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer in prostate peripheral zone Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) 3 lesions without the use of dynamic contrast enhancement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients who underwent biparametric MRI over a 12-month period from January 2022 to December 2022 and were diagnosed with PIRADS 3 lesion in the peripheral zone were included in the study. No patient received dynamic contrast enhancement. Histological analysis was done after performing local anesthetic transperineal biopsy to determine detection rate of clinically significant prostate cancer. Prostate-specific antigen density (PSAD) and biopsy complication rates were also reviewed. RESULTS: Sixty-one out of 688 MRIs (8.8%) performed over the study period had a PIRADS 3 lesion in the peripheral zone where contrast is supposed to add value. Fifty-eight of the 61 went ahead to biopsy, and csPCa (Gleason score: ≥3 + 4, with a max core length of ≥6 mm and above) was diagnosed in 17%. Among those diagnosed with csPCa, 80% had a PSAD of >0.15 ng/ml/cc. No postbiopsy complications were reported. CONCLUSION: Biparametric MRI without contrast offers a reliable alternative to multiparametric MRI with minimum or neglible impact on clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) diagnosis in peripheral zone PIRADS 3 lesions, especially when used in conjunction with other factors such as PSAD. There is potential to address health economics and patient burden in prostate cancer investigation.

Lifestyle and Chemicals: Exploring Behavioral Habits Related to Endocrine Disruptor Exposure Among the General Population of Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with hormonal systems, potentially causing metabolic, reproductive, and neurological issues, as well as hormone-related cancers. Found in everyday products, EDCs accumulate in body tissues over time, with adverse effects depending on the dose and duration of exposure. This study aims to explore behaviors related to EDC exposure among Saudi citizens to assess the need for further risk reduction interventions. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study employed a validated, self-administered online questionnaire to assess daily life behaviors associated with EDC exposure. A total of 563 participants were recruited using convenient sampling through online platforms. RESULTS: The study revealed that a significant majority of participants were aged 18-25 years (48.67%, n=274). On average, participants scored 32.78 out of a maximum of 60 for potential EDC exposure, with scores ranging from 13 to 54 points. The majority (85.26%, n=480) fell into the moderate potential exposure category, while a small minority (4.26%, n=24) exhibited high potential risk based on their reported daily habits, predominantly among male participants (95.83%, n=23). A significant majority (72.65%, n=409) indicated a likelihood of adopting lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to harmful substances. CONCLUSION: This study reveals diverse behavioral patterns linked to endocrine disruptor exposure among the general population in Saudi Arabia. Interestingly, the participants showed a positive attitude and willingness to change their risky behaviors. These findings underscore the necessity for educational programs and public health campaigns aimed at addressing gaps in knowledge. Encouraging the public to adopt behaviors that reduce exposure is essential to minimizing the potential long-term effects of EDCs.

The influence of various welding wires on microstructure, and mechanical characteristics of AA7075 Al-alloy welded by TIG process.

Owing to their exceptional mechanical properties, the various welding wires used to combine aluminum can meet the needs of many engineering applications that call for components with both good mechanical and lightweight capabilities. This study aims to produce high-quality welds made of AA7075 aluminum alloy using the GTAW technique and various welding wires, such as ER5356, ER4043, and ER4047. The microstructure, macrohardness, and other mechanical characteristics, such as tensile strength and impact toughness, were analyzed experimentally. To check the fracture surface of the AA7075 welded joints, the specimens were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A close examination of the samples that were welded with ER5356 welding wire revealed a fine grain in the weld zone (WZ). In addition, the WZ of the ER4043 and ER4047 welded samples had a coarse grain structure. Because the hardness values of the welded samples were lower in the WZ than in the base metal (BM) and heat-affected zone (HAZ), the joints filled with ER5356 welding wire provided the highest hardness values compared to other filler metals. Additionally, the ER4047 filler metal yielded the lowest hardness in the weld zone. The welding wire of ER5356 produced the greatest results for ultimate tensile stress, yield stress, welding efficiency, and strain-hardening capacity (Hc), whereas the filler metal of ER4043 produced the highest percentage of elongation. In addition, the ER4047 fracture surface morphology revealed coarser and deeper dimples than the ER5356 fine dimples in the welded joints. Finally, the highest impact toughness was obtained at joints filled with the ER4047 filler metal, whereas the lowest impact toughness was obtained at the BM.

In Silico Analysis of Calotropis procera-Derived Phytochemicals Targeting 3CL Proteoase of SARS-CoV-2.

The coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2 has enveloped virions with single-stranded positive-sense RNA genome. It infects mammals, including humans, via the respiratory tract. The non-structural protein of coronavirus, main protease (3CLp) is a key enzyme in the disease's progression. This study aimed to screen phytochemicals derived from Calotropis Procera as potential drugs against 3CLp. Through database search, 50 phytochemicals were identified in the Calotropis sp. To evaluate the possible drug-like properties of these phytochemicals, the studies like, ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, Toxicity) analysis, molecular docking and density functional theory (DFT) were performed. Furthermore, GC-MS was performed using water and ethanolic extracts from the plant leaves. The ADMET analysis and docking results showed 11 phytochemicals as probable drug candidates against 3CLp of SARS-CoV-2. All these phytochemicals showed ≥ - 4.3 kcal/mol binding affinity, similar to previously reported inhibitors. Furthermore, based on band energy gap, EHOMO, ELUMO, and DFT analyses, it was shown that these phytochemicals had a significant level of reactivity necessary for the interaction. Among all, the phytochemicals uscharin, voruscharin, frugoside, coroglaucigenin, and benzoylisolineolone may be considered the top 5 drug-like candidates against 3CLp. Furthermore, the selected phytochemicals may be employed for in vitro and in vivo studies for the advancement of a probable drug alongside SARS-CoV-2.

Handover for V2V communication in 5G using convolutional neural networks.

Vehicle communication is one of the most vital aspects of modern transportation systems because it enables real-time data transmission between vehicles and infrastructure to improve traffic flow and road safety. The next generation of mobile technology, 5G, was created to address earlier generations' growing need for high data rates and quality of service issues. 5G cellular technology aims to eliminate penetration loss by segregating outside and inside settings and allowing extremely high transmission speeds, achieved by installing hundreds of dispersed antenna arrays using a distributed antenna system (DAS). Huge multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems are accomplished via DASs and huge MIMO systems, where hundreds of dispersed antenna arrays are built. Because deep learning (DL) techniques employ artificial neural networks with at least one hidden layer, they are used in this study for vehicle recognition. They can swiftly process vast quantities of labeled training data to identify features. Therefore, this paper employed the VGG19 DL model through transfer learning to address the task of vehicle detection and obstacle identification. It also proposes a novel horizontal handover prediction method based on channel characteristics. The suggested techniques are designed for heterogeneous networks or horizontal handovers using DL. In the designated surrounding regions of 5G environments, the suggested detection and handover algorithms identified vehicles with a success rate of 97 % and predicted the next station for handover.

ARISCAT and LAS VEGAS risk scores for predicting postoperative pulmonary complications after cardiac surgery: a cohort study.

Background: Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) could lead to morbidity, mortality, and prolonged hospital stay. Different risk-scoring systems are used to predict the identification of patients at risk of developing PPCs. The diagnostic accuracies of the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia (ARISCAT) and Local Assessment of Ventilatory Management During General Anaesthesia for Surgery (LAS VEGAS) risk scores are compared in prediction of PPCs taking pulmonary complication as the gold standard in cardiac surgery. Materials and methods: A prospective cohort study with consecutive sampling technique. A total of 181 patients were included. Quantitative data is presented as simple descriptive statistics giving mean and standard deviation, and qualitative variables are presented as frequency and percentages. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic accuracies are also calculated. Results: Total 181 post-cardiac surgery patients were analyzed. The median [interquartile range] of age, height, weight, and BMI were 60.0 [52.0-67.0] years, 163.0 [156.0-168.0] cm, 71.0 [65.0-80.0] kg and 27.3 [24.2-30.4] kg/m2. 127 (70.2%) were male, and 54 (29.8%) were female. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of ARISCAT for the prediction of PPCs were (94.9%, 4.65%, 76.1%, 22.9% and 73.4%), whereas LAS VEGAS were (97.1%, 4.65%, 76.5%, 33.3% and 75.1%), respectively. Conclusion: Both the ARISCAT and LAS VEGAS risk scores are of limited value in cardiac surgery patients for the prediction of postoperative pulmonary complications, based on the predicted scores in this study.

Protein Kinase A Regulates Platelet Phosphodiesterase 3A through an A-Kinase Anchoring Protein Dependent Manner.

Platelet activation is critical for haemostasis, but if unregulated can lead to pathological thrombosis. Endogenous platelet inhibitory mechanisms are mediated by prostacyclin (PGI2)-stimulated cAMP signalling, which is regulated by phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A). However, spatiotemporal regulation of PDE3A activity in platelets is unknown. Here, we report that platelets possess multiple PDE3A isoforms with seemingly identical molecular weights (100 kDa). One isoform contained a unique N-terminal sequence that corresponded to PDE3A1 in nucleated cells but with negligible contribution to overall PDE3A activity. The predominant cytosolic PDE3A isoform did not possess the unique N-terminal sequence and accounted for >99% of basal PDE3A activity. PGI2 treatment induced a dose and time-dependent increase in PDE3A phosphorylation which was PKA-dependent and associated with an increase in phosphodiesterase enzymatic activity. The effects of PGI2 on PDE3A were modulated by A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP) disruptor peptides, suggesting an AKAP-mediated PDE3A signalosome. We identified AKAP7, AKAP9, AKAP12, AKAP13, and moesin expressed in platelets but focussed on AKAP7 as a potential PDE3A binding partner. Using a combination of immunoprecipitation, proximity ligation techniques, and activity assays, we identified a novel PDE3A/PKA RII/AKAP7 signalosome in platelets that integrates propagation and termination of cAMP signalling through coupling of PKA and PDE3A.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Media Modulate HUVEC Response to H2O2: Impact on Gene Expression and Potential for Atherosclerosis Intervention.

Background: We studied the potential of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell conditioned media (hBMSC CM) in protecting endothelial cell properties (viability, proliferation, and migrations) from the deleterious effects produced by the inflammatory environment of H2O2. Additionally, we investigated their impact on the endothelial cells' gene expression of some inflammatory-related genes, namely, TGF-ß1, FOS, ATF3, RAF-1, and SMAD3. Methods: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured individually under three conditions: alone, with varying concentrations of H2O2, or with varying concentrations of H2O2 and hBMSC CM. HUVEC adhesion, proliferation, and migration were evaluated using the xCELLigence system. The HUVECs' gene expressions were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: Generally, we observed enhanced HUVEC viability, proliferation, and migration when cultured in media supplemented with H2O2 and hBMSC CM. Furthermore, the CM modulated the expressions of the studied inflammatory-related genes in HUVECs, promoting a more robust cellular response. Conclusion: This study has illuminated the protective role of hBMSC CM in mitigating the damaging effects of H2O2 on endothelial cell function. Our data demonstrate that hBMSC CM enhances the viability, proliferation, and migration of HUVECs even under oxidative stress conditions. Additionally, the conditioned medium was found to modulate the gene expression of pivotal markers related to inflammation, suggesting a favorable influence on cellular response mechanisms.

Enhanced antibacterial activity of a novel silver-based metal organic framework towards multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumonia.

The growth and spread of multidrug-resistant bacterial species, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, pose a serious threat to human health and require the development of innovative antibacterial agents. The search for an acceptable, safe, and efficient antibacterial is a matter of significant concern. In the present work, silver-based metal-organic frameworks (Ag-MOFs) showed efficient antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae (KBP 11) with a minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of 10 µg mL-1. Moreover, the Ag-MOF showed enhanced antibacterial activity compared to silver ions and silver nanoparticles. Our experimental investigation showed that the antibacterial efficacy is attributed to the production of reactive oxygen species and the release of cellular constituents, such as K+ ions and proteins. The MOF scaffold enhances the stability and controlled release of silver ions, enabling sustained antibacterial activity and minimizing the risk of bacterial resistance development. Additionally, the MOF class, due to the high surface area and porous nature, enhances the transfer of bacteria into and on the surface of the MOF.

Exploitation of erythrosine B as a fluorometric marker for lurasidone determination through electrostatic attraction; application to content uniformity test.

A recently developed antipsychotic drug, lurasidone, was determined using a simple, sensitive, and eco-friendly spectrofluorimetric approach. The suggested approach was based on the quantifiable quenching impact of lurasidone on the inherent fluorescence of erythrosine B in an acidic environment employing a Teorell-Stenhagen buffer (pH 4). Following excitation at 530 nm, the quenching of erythrosine B fluorescence was monitored at 552 nm. The system variables were systematically optimized to enhance the formation of the lurasidone-erythrosine B ion pair for analytical purposes. A linear calibration graph was built in the range of 20-600 ng mL-1 with 0.9998 as a coefficient of correlation. The quantitation and detection limits were 13.5 and 4.5 ng/mL, respectively. The analytical validity of the designed approach was assessed with respect to International Council on Harmonization (ICH) guiding principles. The proposed methodology was employed with high recoveries for assessing lurasidone in bulk powder and its therapeutic tablet dosage form. Additionally, the uniformity of tablet formulations was tested using the developed approach. Finally, the established approach was assessed for its greenness using various tools.

Common pathogens associated with infected diabetic foot ulcers: A retrospective cohort study in a specialized medical center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Background: Foot infections, a frequent complication of diabetes mellitus, are associated with heavy resource utilization, including antibiotic therapy and surgeries. However, the most common type of isolated pathogen in diabetic foot infections remains unknown. We aimed to identify the most common types of isolated pathogens in diabetic foot infections. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a specialized medical center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 96 patients diagnosed with diabetes and presented with a foot ulcer showing clinical signs of infection were included. Results: The mean age was 63.03 ± 10.88 years, and 67.7% were males. The mean duration of diabetes diagnosis was 21.86 ± 9.66 years, and the majority had foot ulcers for over six weeks. Bacteria were present in 65 patients (67.7%), Gram-negative organisms were observed in 37 patients (38.5%), and Gram-positive organisms were present in 28 patients (29.2%). In the 65 patients with bacterial culture, Staphylococcus aureus was the most common isolated organism and was observed in 18 patients (27.7%), followed by Escherichia coli in 11 (16.9%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 10 (15.4%). Binary regression analyses found that Gram-negative organisms were significantly more multidrug-resistant than Gram-positive organisms (P = 0.012, OR = 7.172, 95% CI = 1.542-33.352). Patient outcomes included healed ulcers (n = 10, 10.4%), minor amputation (n = 16, 16.7%), major amputation (n = 1, 1%), and debridement (n = 48, 50%). Conclusion: Gram-negative organisms were predominant in patients with diabetes and foot ulcers having clinical signs of infection. Treatment with an individualized antibiotic regimen is vital in ensuring optimal outcomes and preventing major amputations.

Oxidative stress and type 2 diabetes: the development and the pathogenesis, Jordanian cross-sectional study.

Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can disrupt the antioxidant defense system, leading to oxidative stress that leads to pathological damage to vital human organs, including hormone-producing glands. Normal physiological function is subsequently disrupted and disorders such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) may develop. The critical role of the antioxidant defense system in counteracting ROS and mitigating oxidative stress is fundamental to understanding the pathogenesis of T2DM. In our study, we monitored the oxidant/antioxidant status in a selected Jordanian population to further elucidate this relationship. Our results show higher serum levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA); 0.230 ± 0.05 and 0.207 ± 0.06 µmol/l for the diabetic and the obese groups, respectively, relative to 0.135 ± 0.04 µmol/l for the non-obese healthy group. Lower activity of Catalase (CAT) was recorded among the diabetic (9.2 ± 3.2) and obese groups (11.0 ± 2.8), compared to the non-obese healthy group (12.1 ± 3.5). Significant elevations (P < 0.05) were observed in uric acid concentrations in diabetic and obese subjects: 451 ± 57 mg/dl and 430 ± 51, respectively, versus 342 ± 57 mg/dl in the non-obese healthy group. Moreover, no significant differences were obtained between all the studied groups for the serum albumin and total protein concentrations. Our findings demonstrate the potential role of oxidative stress in the development and occurrence of T2DM.

Molecular docking analysis of some medicinal extracts for pro-apoptotic, antiinflammatory and antioxidative activities using HCC cell lines.

We investigated the biological activities of 14 medicinal plants from Saudi Arabia as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-proliferative properties using hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines. Hexane extracts exhibited the maximum inhibitory activities against albumin denaturation compared with those of other solvents. Baccharoides schimperi hexane extract showed the highest anti-inflammatory while Ocimum basilicum methanol extract showed significantly high hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (p < 0.001). B. schimperi methanol extract showed highest cytotoxicity and anti-proliferation activity (IC50; 25 µg/ml) in hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. Annexin V and caspase-9 activities were induced significantly (p < 0.001) by B. schimperi and the response increased in a dose dependent compared with untreated cells (p < 0.001). The docking scores showed a low docking energy binding of 2-Cyclohexylpiperidine of B. schimperi with COX-2, (-16.62 kcal/mol), high affinity for apoptotic and anti-inflammatory potency It can be concluded that, B. schimperi active ingredients as 2-Cyclohexylpiperidine and phytol contributed to its biological activity.

Impact of total phenolic compounds on ecological and health risks of water and sediments from Timsah Lake, Suez Canal, Egypt.

This study aimed to measure spatial and temporal distributions of total phenolic compounds and their ecological and health hazards using UV-vis spectrophotometers as a low-cost, fast, simple method in water and sediments collected from Timsah Lake, Suez Canal, Egypt, 2022. Also, assessing highly adaptive fungal species associated with contamination is designed. Due to human and environmental activities and industrial waste discharges, Timsah Lake is increasingly threatened by all kinds of pollutants. The results indicated that the seasonal concentration means of the phenolic compounds were winter (0.229) > spring (0.161) > summer (0.124) > autumn (0.131) mg/l and winter (3.08) > summer (2.66) mg/g in water and sediment samples, respectively. The result has shown that the phenol concentrations in all stations were more than 0.005 and 0.1 mg/l for Egyptian National Standards and World Health Organization (WHO) for drinking water but less than the limits of 1 mg/l for wastewater. Notably, the fungi recorded the highest counts during spring, totaling 397 colonies/100 ml of water and 842 colonies/gram of sediment. Four isolates of fungi were identified and deposited in the GenBank database by Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus terreus, Penicillium roqueforti, and Penicillium rubens under accession numbers OR401933, OR402837, OR402878, and OR424729, respectively. Moreover, ecological risk (RQ) for the total phenolic compounds was > 1 in all investigated stations for water and sediments. The hazard quotient is HQ < 1 in all seasons in water and sediments except winter. The hazard index (HI) in water and sediments for children is higher than for adults. It can be concluded that the low-cost, fast, simple method for determining phenolic content in water and sediment samples, using UV-vis spectrophotometry, was useful for predicting the reactivates of a wide variety of phenol and their derivatives. Furthermore, it can be concluded that Periodic assessments of water quality and strict regulations are necessary to safeguard this vital resource from pollution and ensure the well-being of future generations. Finally, policymakers and water treatment specialists might use the information from this research to reduce these chemical pollutants in Egypt.

Bioprocessing of camptothecin from Alternaria brassicicola, an endophyte of Catharanthus roseus, with a strong antiproliferative activity and inhibition to Topoisomerases.

Suppression of fungal camptothecin (CPT) biosynthesis with the preservation and successive subculturing is the challenge that impedes fungi from the industrial application, so, screening for a novel fungal isolate with a conceivable stable producing potency of CPT was the main objective of this work. Catharanthus roseus with diverse contents of bioactive metabolites could have a plethora of novel endophytes with unique metabolic properties. Among the endophytes of C. roseus, Alternaria brassicicola EFBL-NV OR131587.1 was the highest CPT producer (96.5 µg/L). The structural identity of the putative CPT was verified by HPLC, FTIR, HNMR and LC-MS/MS, with a molecular mass 349 m/z, and molecular fragmentation patterns that typically identical to the authentic one. The purified A. brassicicola CPT has a strong antiproliferative activity towards UO-31 (0.75 µM) and MCF7 (3.2 µM), with selectivity index 30.8, and 7.1, respectively, in addition to resilient activity to inhibit Topo II (IC50 value 0.26 nM) than Topo 1 (IC50 value 3.2 nM). The purified CPT combat the wound healing of UO-31 cells by ~ 52%, stops their matrix formation, cell migration and metastasis. The purified CPT arrest the cellular division of the UO-31 at the S-phase, and inducing their cellular apoptosis by ~ 20.4 folds, compared to the control cells. Upon bioprocessing with the surface response methodology, the CPT yield by A. brassicicola was improved by ~ 3.3 folds, compared to control. The metabolic potency of synthesis of CPT by A. brassicicola was attenuated with the fungal storage and subculturing, losing ~ 50% of their CPT productivity by the 6th month of storage and 6th generation. Practically, the CPT productivity of the attenuated A. brassicicola was restored by addition of 1% surface sterilized leaves of C. roseus, ensuring the eliciting of cryptic gene cluster of A. brassicicola CPT via the plant microbiome-A. brassicicola interactions. So, for the first time, a novel endophytic isolate A. brassicicola, from C. roseus, was explored to have a relatively stable CPT biosynthetic machinery, with an affordable feasibility to restore their CPT productivity using C. roseus microbiome, in addition to the unique affinity of the extracted CPT to inhibit Topoisomerase I and II.

Designing a productive, profitable integrated farming system model with low water footprints for small and marginal farmers of Telangana.

In the years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023, an experiment was carried out at the IFS Unit, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar in order to determine the best one-acre integrated farming system model for Telangana's small and marginal farmers. Seven farm models among which six models were developed by combining the various components i.e., cropping systems, fruit cropfodder crops and livestock components, in different proportions, and compared with rice-groundnut system which is a major farming approach in Telangana using randomized block design. The seven models were as follows: M1: Rice-Groundnut; M2: Rice-Groundnut, Pigeonpea + Sweetcorn (1:3)-Bajra, Bt cotton + Greengram (1:2)-Maize; M3: Rice-Groundnut, Pigeonpea + Sweetcorn (1:3)-Bajra, Pigeonpea + Maize (1:3)-Sunhemp; Napier grass, Sheep (5 + 1); M4: Rice-Groundnut, Pigeonpea + Sweetcorn (1:3)-Bajra, Bt cotton + Greengram (1:2)-Maize, Pigeonpea + Maize (1:3)-Sunhemp, Poultry unit; M5: Guava, Hedge Lucerne, Napier grass, Bt cotton + Greengram (1:2)-Maize, Sheep (5 + 1); M6: Guava, Bt cotton + Greengram (1:2)-Maize, Rice-Groundnut, Poultry; M7: Rice-Groundnut, Pigeonpea + Sweetcorn (1:3)-Bajra, Pigeonpea + Maize (1:3)-Sunhemp; Napier grass, Hedge lucerne, Poultry (100), Sheep (5 + 1). Based on a 2-year average, the Model M7 system produced 9980 Rice Grain Equivalent Yield(RGEY)kg of output per acre, with gross and net returns of ₹210,439 and ₹124,953 respectively, and recovered a B:C ratio of 2.46. It has recorded highest sustainable yield index (SYI) of 0.673 and value index of 0.772 with the lowest water footprint of 259.0 L/kg. This study reveals that adopting an integrated farming system is the optimal approach for effectively combining productive, financially rewarding, and diversified enterprises within a single acre of land.d. This system should be recommended for maximum benefits to smallto small and marginal farmers in Telangana's southern hills and plateau.

Tobacco Cessation Interventions in Non-Respiratory Cancers: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Considering the high rates of persistent tobacco use, effective cessation interventions are needed for cancer patients and caregivers. Despite the need, there is a significant lack of research on tobacco cessation, especially for non-respiratory cancers (breast, prostate, colorectal, cervical, and bladder cancer). PURPOSE: The objective was to evaluate tobacco use and tobacco cessation interventions among patients and caregivers for non-respiratory cancers. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials assessing tobacco cessation interventions were identified. Five electronic databases were searched in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines through July 2023. Studies exclusive to lung, oral, thoracic, and head and neck cancers were excluded. Effect sizes were estimated; risk of bias was assessed. RESULTS: Of 3,304 studies, 17 were included. Interventions included behavioral (n = 6), pharmacotherapy (n = 2), and a combination (n = 9) treatment. Eight studies included a health behavior model; mean behavioral change techniques were 5.57. Pooled magnitude of the odds of cessation was positive and significant (odds ratio = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [Lower Limit 1.02, Upper Limit 1.51]) relative to usual care/placebo. Cumulative meta-analysis examined the accumulation of results over-time and demonstrated that studies have been significant since 2020. Two studies included caregivers' who were involved in the provision of social support. CONCLUSIONS: Current interventions have the potential to reduce tobacco use in non-respiratory cancers. Results may be beneficial for promoting tobacco cessation among non-respiratory cancers. There is a considerable lack of dyadic interventions for cancer survivors and caregivers; researchers are encouraged to explore dyadic approaches.

We aimed to understand effective ways for cancer patients and caregivers to quit using tobacco. We focused on non-respiratory cancers (cancers not related to breathing issues) like breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. We reviewed 17 randomized controlled trials designed to help people quit tobacco, which included behavioral therapies (e.g., education and counseling), pharmacotherapy (i.e., medicine), and combinations of both. We found that people in these studies quit using tobacco, especially when more than one approach was used. The studies also showed that these approaches have been more successful since 2020. The research highlighted a need for more studies that include both patients and their caregivers together in the quitting process. This approach, called dyadic intervention, could be more effective in supporting patients and their caregivers. Overall, while the current approaches are promising, more research is needed to develop better ways to help cancer patients and caregivers quit smoking for longer.