A Case of Marfan Syndrome With Congenital Hip Dysplasia and Spine Abnormality.

Marfan syndrome, a hereditary disorder of connective tissue marked by FBN1 gene mutations, presents a clinical tapestry requiring a multidisciplinary approach for optimal management. This case report details the presentation of an 11-year-old male exhibiting musculoskeletal deformities, notably an abnormally curved spine and congenital hip dysplasia, indicative of Marfan syndrome. The absence of cardiovascular abnormalities and family history challenges the diagnostic process. Clinical evaluation revealed classical signs, including positive wrist and thumb signs, pectus carinatum, a loose skin fold, and scapular winging. Laboratory investigations, including imaging studies, confirmed the diagnosis. The patient's management involves a multifaceted strategy, addressing cardiovascular risks through beta-blockers and potential surgical interventions, orthopedic measures for musculoskeletal complications, and ophthalmologic interventions for ocular manifestations. Genetic counseling facilitates informed decision-making, and psychosocial support ensures holistic care. This case underscores the necessity of recognizing atypical presentations and employing a holistic, collaborative approach for early diagnosis and effective management of Marfan syndrome, thereby emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and heightened clinical awareness in enhancing outcomes for individuals living with this intricate genetic disorder.

Unleashing the electrochemical performance of zirconia nanoparticles on valve-regulated lead acid battery.

The electrochemical act of valve-regulated lead acid batteries can be enhanced by conductive materials like metal oxides. This work aims to examine the preparation and influence of zirconia on poly(vinyl alcohol) based gel valve-regulated lead acid battery. Characterizations like Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ionic conductivity, water retention study, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques were done. The optimized gel system exhibited a discharge capacity of 198.45 µAh cm-2 at the current density of 0.6 mA cm-2. The battery cell with an optimized gel matrix displayed a maximum discharge capacity of 22.5 µAh at a current of 20 µA. After 500 continuous cycles, the battery attained a discharge capacity retention of 91 %. The presence of zirconia will increase the electrochemical performance of gel valve-regulated lead acid batteries.

An Interesting Case of Macular Amyloidosis With No Significant Etiology.

Macular amyloidosis is primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis (PLCA). It is described by the extracellular accumulation of heterogenic amyloid proteins in the skin that does not affect the systemic immune system, causing hyperpigmented patches. It is a prevalent skin disorder of young female adults, especially in India, since it affects the population with darker skin. History of frictional rub on the skin is typically present, such as using loofah or bathing scrubs or stones. The case presented below is of a 23-year-old female who presented with a hyperpigmented patch on the upper back of both sides and extensor surface of arms and did not have any history of usage of loofah on those areas, compelling us to research more on the other causative factors (genetic predisposition, infectious agents, and UV radiation are probable causative factors) for macular amyloidosis. This condition is not entirely cured; it is managed symptomatically only to improve cosmetic outcomes.

A Comprehensive Case Study of a Hyperlaxity Dilemma: An Injury-Prone Young Athlete.

A prevalent condition that is frequently linked to joint trauma is joint hyper-laxity. The knee joint is one of the most complex and injury-prone joints in sports. The most commonly injured is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The case presented below is of a 24-year-old athlete with a past history of many sports-related injuries who is now presented with a complete tear of the ACL with hyper-laxity as a risk factor. The patient has a Beighton score of six out of nine without any other symptoms, which is suggestive of benign hyper-laxity of the joints and not hyper-laxity syndrome. Here, we emphasize that medical professionals must know the fundamental connection between hyper-laxity and musculoskeletal injuries and their proper management and rehabilitation for future prevention.

Knowledge of and Self-Expressed Stigma for COVID-19 Vaccination among Pre-University Students in a College in South India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious infection characterized by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2). Safe and effective vaccines are game-changers in the global vision of marking an end to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, vaccine hesitancy due to perceived stigma and misinformation is a grave cause of concern. Objectives: To assess pre-university students' self-expressed stigma regarding COVID-19 vaccination and its association with their knowledge. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was adopted for this research. A structured questionnaire approach was used to gather data from 384 students purposively at the selected pre-university college. The structured questionnaire consisted of three sections that explored the socio-demographic characteristics of the study participants, knowledge of vaccination, and self-expressed stigma, respectively. A total of 384 respondents took part in the study. Results: The study observes a low positive relationship (r = 0.25, P < 0.01) between knowledge and self-expressed stigma toward vaccination. Further, it was observed that participants from rural backgrounds had lower knowledge and self-expressed stigma scores than participants from urban settings. It is pertinent to note that participants with other sources of information had higher knowledge than those who used the internet, friends/peers, or newspapers. Both of the aforementioned findings are statistically significant. Conclusion: The interventions should revive trust in national health authorities, structured awareness campaigns by government agencies, and media coverage about the safety and efficacy of vaccines. In addition, it is also important to support citizens in ensuring that they have access to the right information from authentic sources in times of crisis.

Effect of PVP Molecular Weights on the Synthesis of Ultrasmall Cus Nanoflakes: Synthesis, Properties, and Potential Application for Phototheranostics.

Copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS) hold tremendous potential for applications in photothermal therapy (PTT) and photoacoustic imaging (PAI). However, the conventional chemical coprecipitation method often leads to particle agglomeration issues. To overcome this challenge, we utilized polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a stabilizing agent, resulting in the synthesis of small PVP-CuS nanoparticles named PC10, PCK30, and PC40. Our study aimed to investigate how different molecular weights of PVP influence the nanoparticles' crystalline characteristics and essential properties, especially their photoacoustic and photothermal responses. While prior research on PVP-assisted CuS nanoparticles has been conducted, our study delves deeper into this area, providing insights into optical properties. Remarkably, all synthesized nanoparticles exhibited a crystalline structure, were smaller than 10 nm, and featured an absorbance peak at 1020 nm, indicating their robust photoacoustic and photothermal capabilities. Among these nanoparticles, PC10 emerged as the standout performer, displaying superior photoacoustic properties. Our photothermal experiments demonstrated significant temperature increases in all cases, with PC10 achieving an impressive efficiency of 51%. Moreover, cytotoxicity assays revealed the nanoparticles' compatibility with cells, coupled with an enhanced incidence of apoptosis compared to necrosis. These findings underscore the promising potential of PVP-stabilized CuS nanoparticles for advanced cancer theranostics.

Factors Associated With Low Birth Weight Among the Tribal Population in India: A Narrative Review.

Low birth weight (LBW) is defined by the WHO as a birth weighing less than 2500 g (5.5 lb). The highest burden of any nation is LBW infants. In countries where the frequency of neonate babies is high, short gestation is a major cause. LBW babies have an 11-13 times greater risk of delayed developmental milestones and other medical diagnoses. Greater than the global incidence, LBW prevalence is a severe public health problem in India. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using internet sources like PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The words "birth weight," "abnormal birth weight," "LBWs," "neonates," "premature birth," "risks factors," "causes," "factors," "prevalence," and "frequency" were searched. In this review, we examine the causes of LBW, implementation of pre-birth prevention strategies, and post-birth multifaceted health promotion interventions. The mother's knowledge, dietary requirements, and prenatal services need to be addressed to decrease the prevalence of LBWs among tribal districts of India.

Biodegradable Nanocomposite of ZnS(Mn) Quantum Dots Immobilized Graphene Oxide for Bioimaging Applications.

Developing a biocompatible and biodegradable graphene-based fluorescent nanoprobe with the ability to visualize live cells could be interesting for intracellular imaging and monitoring the efficiency of chemotherapy. Herein, we report a biodegradable and biocompatible hybrid fluorescent graphene oxide (GO)-ZnS(Mn) composite synthesized via in situ growth of ZnS(Mn) quantum dots (QDs) on the surface of GO in the aqueous medium. The prepared 'GO-ZnS(Mn)' composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) along with selected area electron diffraction (SAED). Further, the fluorescence properties of the GO-ZnS(Mn) composite were studied using fluorescence emission spectroscopy. The composite material exhibited a strong and broad visible light fluorescence from 500 to 600 nm by excitation with 365 nm (UV) light. The cytotoxic experiments of folic acid (FA) conjugated GO-ZnS(Mn) using MTT [(3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide)] assay revealed that the composite had excellent biocompatibility even at higher concentrations up to 200 µg/mL in HeLa cell lines. Next, the bioimaging experiments carried out using confocal fluorescence laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed that GO-ZnS(Mn) composite was taken up by the HeLa cells effectively within 12 h of incubation via receptor (folate) mediated endocytosis with strong fluorescence throughout the cell surface. Finally, the biodegradability of GO-ZnS(Mn) composite was studied by treating it with human myeloperoxidase enzyme (hMPO) isolated from the primary immune cells, neutrophils, which is important to understand the in vivo fate of GO-Zns(Mn). The HR-TEM and Raman analyses confirmed the biodegradation of GO-ZnS(Mn) within 15 h of hMPO treatment. Thus, the biodegradable GO-ZnS (Mn) composite could be helpful for chemotherapy and bioimaging applications.

Snail Mucus-Enhanced Adhesion of Human Chondrocytes on 3D Porous Agarose Scaffolds.

This study reports the preparation of a novel porous 3D scaffold from agarose-snail mucus (AGSMu) for cartilage tissue repair applications. AG is reported for its unique thermal and mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, making it suitable for biomedical applications. Still, it lacks the cell adhesion properties required for tissue engineering applications. SMu is a complex substance identified to contain glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and other bioactive molecules that promote wound healing and reduce cartilage deterioration and inflammation. Hence, porous 3D blend scaffolds containing AG and SMu were prepared by the freeze-drying method, characterized, and investigated for bioactive effects on human chondrocyte (C28/I2) cells. The scaffolds had a microporous structure with an average pore size of 245 µm. FTIR spectroscopy showed that SMu was successfully incorporated into the scaffolds. The SMu increased the mechanical strength of the composite scaffolds by more than 80% compared to the pristine AG scaffold. The scaffolds were found to be biocompatible with tunable degradation. The human chondrocyte cells attached and proliferated well on the 3D scaffolds in a few days, demonstrating a marked improvement in adhesion due to the presence of SMu. Enhanced cell adhesion and mechanical properties of 3D porous AG scaffolds could make them suitable for articular cartilage repair and regeneration.

Pseudotumor - Cysticercosis of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus Mimicking Volkmanns Contracture.

Introduction: Cysticercosis leads to a cyst formation known to occur due to the Taenia solium parasite. Patients normally present with seeding and formation of the cysts in the central nervous system (CNS) as neurocysticercosis (NCC). Intramuscular cysts are rare presentations and are mostly incidental findings in NCC patients. We present a rare case of a rapidly progressing isolated cysticercosis of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) muscle leading to a pseudotumor and presenting with pseudo-Volkmanns contracture and a positive Volkmanns sign. Case Report: A 26-year-old right-hand dominant vegetarian female presented with a 3-month-old progressive swelling on her right forearm with no antecedent trauma history. A positive Volkmann's sign was present. Radiographs were normal, and ultrasonography showed a cysticercus cyst in the FDP muscle belly with a multiseptated abscess around the tendons of the middle, ring, and little fingers at the musculotendinous junction. Bones and nerves were spared. After ruling out CNS involvement and providing oral antiparasitic cover, she underwent a successful surgical exploration with cyst excision, debridement, and freeing of the involved tendons. Immediately post-operatively, she was able to completely extend the three involved fingers without flexion at the wrist joint (resolving Volkmann's sign). She reported significant improvements in the functions of daily life. She was protected with a splint for 2 weeks. There was no recurrence, and the swelling subsided. Histo-pathology reports depicted cysts with visible scolices. Conclusion: It is important to consider the possibility of 'Myoparasitism' in atraumatic cases showing contractures. Clinching the right diagnosis is essential and best done with a multidisciplinary approach with ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, electromyography, and nerve conduction velocity studies. It is essential to rule out life-threatening NCC beforehand and offer prophylaxis. Surgical exploration is generally indicated to regain normal function and free the involved structures.

Malunion of a Clavicle Fracture in a Young Adult: A Case Report and Surgical Intervention.

This case study examines the medical complexity of managing a neglected clavicle in a young patient, resulting in a complicated interstitial non-union. Despite initial therapeutic efforts, the fracture was not treated, resulting in significant pain as well as functional and aesthetic disabilities. This case outlines accurate clinical presentation and diagnostic methods. In addition, malunion clavicle fractures require multifaceted therapeutic approaches including surgical interventions, rehabilitation programs, and psychological support. Through comprehensive research and long-term follow-up, this report reveals the complexity of traumatic fractures, highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention. To address the issue effectively, it is essential to follow a multidisciplinary approach that includes physical assessment, pharmacotherapy, and physiotherapy. This case report aims to highlight the critical role of comprehensive individual care in improving the patient's condition and emphasizes the importance of vigilant healthcare practices.

Graphene-Doped Hydrogels Promoting Ionic Conductivity in Gel-Valve-Regulated Lead Acid Batteries.

In this study, the impact of graphene-doped poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels on gel-valve-regulated lead acid batteries was examined. The gel formulations were made by adding various amounts of graphene into the gel system comprising poly(vinyl alcohol) and sulfuric acid. Gel formulations were subjected to an ionic conductivity study and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to understand ionic mobility and material interaction, respectively. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) were utilized to find the optimized amount of graphene in gel formulations. Galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) techniques were employed on a battery comprising an optimized gel electrolyte. The battery exhibited a discharge capacity of 12.82 mAh at a current density of 15 mA cm-2. After 500 prolonged cycles, the battery displayed a discharge capacity of 87% at 25 mA cm-2 current density, indicating that graphene-doped hydrogels can be a promising gel electrolyte for lead acid batteries.

Effects of Periodontitis on Major Organ Systems.

This review focuses on the fact that oral disorders are not merely localized to the mouth; in a broader sense, they also have a more significant impact on systemic health. In this review, we tried to bring to the notice various complications of periodontitis on the body's major organ systems. It has also been suggested that there is a potential connection between periodontitis and certain systemic disorders. Reviewing this fascinating topic is necessary. The objective is to create a thorough body of knowledge on the subject that is simple to access, alert medical professionals to the connection between dental health and systemic health, and highlight the necessity of a more thorough incorporation of medical and dental training. Periodontitis is a probable risk factor for various problems connected to the cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, musculoskeletal, central nervous, and reproductive systems. It is a continual likely source of infection. Oral health affects overall health, and if extensive healthcare is ever accomplished, dental health should never be considered a distinct, remote, and lower significant part of health wholly disconnected from quality of life. One should never underestimate oral disorders as being acute and always curable. People should take utmost care and take the condition seriously to prevent significant complications.

The Past, Present, and Future of One Health in India: A Narrative Review.

Humans have experienced a long-lasting pandemic of COVID-19 going on since the year 2020. Such events have recently increased the demand for a competent disease outbreak response system, more precisely, a One Health platform. The interaction between humans, animals, and ecosystems is inevitable. It is a known fact that the interface between these three entities is important for survival. In rural areas, especially in developing countries, it is a common practice to keep the animal shed in close proximity to their homes. Further, this intricate relationship itself plays a role in the spread and transmission of the disease. The involvement of the human-animal interface in emerging and re-emerging diseases has caused havoc in recent times and might prove challenging to overcome. Over the years, many efforts have been made on international and national platforms to adopt and implement a transdisciplinary, collaborative, intersectoral approach in India. This review highlights the major initiatives taken for the implementation of one health and the challenges faced over the years in our country.

A Phenomenal Depiction of Paranoid Schizophrenia With Auditory Hallucinations: A Case Report.

This case report provides a vivid illustration of a schizophrenic case in a 59-year-old man with auditory hallucinations, illuminating the nature of his symptoms. Auditory hallucinations were prominent, and the patient received voices urging him to perform actions that clearly corresponded to his paranoid thoughts. Through comprehensive research and long-term follow-up, this report reveals the complexity of traumatic schizophrenia, highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention. One must emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, including psychiatric assessment, pharmacotherapy, and psychotherapy. This case report aims to highlight the critical role of comprehensive individual care in improving the patient's condition and emphasizes the importance of compassionate healthcare practices.

Novel Chemotherapy Modalities for Different Cancers.

Even though many of the approved drugs still have high systemic toxicity due to a lack of tumor selectivity and present pharmacokinetic drawbacks, like low water solubility, that negatively influence the drug circulation time and bioavailability, the anti-cancer study has produced commendable results in recent years. The stability tests carried out under stressful exposure to high temperatures, hydrolytic media, or light sources during their development or under moderate settings have shown the vulnerability of anti-cancer medications to various factors. Because of this, the development of degradation products is considered hospital waste in pharmaceutical formulations and the environment. Until now, various formulations have been created for attaining tissue-specific therapeutic targeting, lowering harmful side effects, and enhancing drug stability. To boost the specificity, efficiency, and durability of active molecules that are targeted in cancer therapy the invention of prodrugs is the potential approach. The latest study illustrates that the solubility, pharmacokinetics, cellular uptake, and stability of chemotherapy drugs can be improved through the incorporation of them into vesicular systems, such as polymeric micelles or cyclodextrins, or via nanocarriers containing chemotherapeutics linked to monoclonal antibodies. In this review article, we provide an overview of the most recent advances in the field of designing very stable prodrugs or nanosystems that are powerful anti-cancer medications and their actions on the body.

Application of Shape Memory and Self-Healable Polymers/Composites in the Biomedical Field: A Review.

Shape memory-assisted self-healing polymers have drawn attention over the past few years owing to their interdisciplinary and wide range of applications. Self-healing and shape memory are two approaches used to improve the applicability of polymers in the biomedical field. Combining both these approaches in a polymer composite opens new possibilities for its use in biomedical applications, such as the "close then heal" concept, which uses the shape memory capabilities of polymers to bring injured sections together to promote autonomous healing. This review focuses on using shape memory-assisted self-healing approaches along with their respective affecting factors for biomedical applications such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, biomaterial-inks, and 4D printed scaffolds, soft actuators, wearable electronics, etc. In addition, quantification of self-healing and shape memory efficiency is also discussed. The challenges and prospects of these polymers for biomedical applications have been summarized.

Studies on Evaluation of the Thermal Conductivity of Alumina Titania Hybrid Suspension Nanofluids for Enhanced Heat Transfer Applications.

Extensive investigations were made and empirical relations were proposed for the thermal conductivity of mono-nanofluids. The effect of concentration, diameter, and thermal properties of participating nanoparticles is missing in the majority of existing thermal conductivity models. An attempt is made to propose a model that considers the influence of such missing parameters on the thermal conductivity of hybrid nanofluids. Al2O3-TiO2 hybrid nanofluids have a 0.1% particle volume concentration prepared with distinct particle volume ratios (k - 1:6 - k, k = 1 to 6) in DI water. The samples were characterized, and the size and shape of the nanoparticles were verified. Also, the influence of varying particle volume ratios and the fluid temperature (varying from 283 to 308 K) were examined. 2.4 and 2.1% enhancements were observed in the thermal conductivity of alumina (5:0) and titania (0:5) nanofluids (having 0.1% volume concentration), respectively. Due to the low thermal conductivity of titania nanoparticles, the conductivity of the hybrid solution is above that of titania and below that of alumina nanofluids. An empirical relation for the thermal conductivity of hybrid nanofluids is established and validated considering the individual particle size, volume ratio, and thermal conductivity of particles.

Snail Mucus from Achatina fulica as a Biomaterial Exhibits Pro-Survival Effects on Human Chondrocytes.

This study reports the novel use of Achatina fulica (A. fulica) mucus as a potential therapeutic repair agent in osteoarthritis and cartilage tissue repair in vitro. Snail mucus was isolated, sterilized, and characterized using FTIR, XPS, rheology, and LC-MS/MS. The GAGs, sugar, phenol, and protein contents were estimated using standard assays. The LC-MS/MS identified 6-gingerol and some other small molecules. The effects of the sterilized mucus were studied on human chondrocytes using the C28/I2 cell as a model for the in vitro assays. The MTT assay indicates that mucus extracted from the pedal of A. fulica is biocompatible with the cells up to a concentration of 50 µg/mL. The mucus promoted cell migration and proliferation and completely closed the wound within 72 h, as indicated in the in vitro scratch assay. In addition, the snail mucus reduced apoptosis significantly (p < 0.05) in the treated cells by 74.6%. It preserved the cytoskeletal integrity of the C28/I2 cells, attributed mainly to GAGs and 6-gingerol content of the mucus. In conclusion, this present study suggests that GAGs and 6-gingerol conferred wound-healing and antiapoptotic properties on the mucus secretion from A. fulica and can be explored for therapeutic repair and cartilage tissue engineering.

Congenital rubella syndrome surveillance in India, 2016-21: Analysis of five years surveillance data.

Background: In India, facility-based surveillance for congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) was initiated in 2016 to estimate the burden and monitor the progress made in rubella control. We analyzed the surveillance data for 2016-2021 from 14 sentinel sites to describe the epidemiology of CRS. Method: We analyzed the surveillance data to describe the distribution of suspected and laboratory confirmed CRS patients by time, place and person characteristics. We compared clinical signs of laboratory confirmed CRS and discarded case-patients to find independent predictors of CRS using logistic regression analysis and developed a risk prediction model. Results: During 2016-21, surveillance sites enrolled 3940 suspected CRS case-patients (Age 3.5 months, SD: 3.5). About one-fifth (n = 813, 20.6%) were enrolled during newborn examination. Of the suspected CRS patients, 493 (12.5%) had laboratory evidence of rubella infection. The proportion of laboratory confirmed CRS cases declined from 26% in 2017 to 8.7% in 2021. Laboratory confirmed patients had higher odds of having hearing impairment (Odds ratio [OR] = 9.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.6-16.2), cataract (OR = 7.8, 95% CI: 5.4-11.2), pigmentary retinopathy (OR = 6.7, 95 CI: 3.3-13.6), structural heart defect with hearing impairment (OR = 3.8, 95% CI: 1.2-12.2) and glaucoma (OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2-8.1). Nomogram, along with a web version, was developed. Conclusions: Rubella continues to be a significant public health issue in India. The declining trend of test positivity among suspected CRS case-patients needs to be monitored through continued surveillance in these sentinel sites.