Ultra-wide range non-contact surface profilometry based on reconfigurable fiber interferometry.

Surface characterization is essential for a technical evaluation of device performance and to assess surface dynamics in fabrication units. In this regard, a number of surface profiling techniques have been developed that accurately map sample topography but have significantly limited detection range. Here, we demonstrate a cascaded non-contact fiber interferometer-based approach for real-time high-precision surface profiling with ultrawide detection range (nm to mm). This compact interferometers' system operates by wavelength interrogation that provides a scope to study several types of surfaces and has a tunable cavity configuration for varying the sensitivity and range of the detectable features' size. The proposed system enables nanoscale profiling over 10-1000 nm with resolution of 10 nm and microscale mapping over 1-1000 µm with resolution of 0.2 µm. The technique is utilized to map the features of nanostructured surfaces and estimate the surface roughness of standardized industrial samples.

Air pollution mitigation and suspended particulate matter retention potential of selected plant species across seasonal variation in the urban area.

Air pollution is a pressing environmental concern in urban areas, especially in densely populated cities like Delhi, India. However, plant species can effectively capture airborne suspended pollutants. Given this, the present study aimed to investigate the seasonal variations (pre- and post-monsoon) in the pollution-mitigating potential, biochemical characteristics, and suspended particulate matter (SPM) capturing capacities of select plant species in Delhi. Also, using biochemical parameters, plant morphology, and socioeconomic factors, the study computed tolerance indices such as the Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) and Anticipated Performance Index (API). Ficus religiosa L. exhibited the highest APTI value of 11.94, while Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites displayed the lowest 7.99 APTI value during the pre-monsoon. Ficus benghalensis L. showed the maximum SPM adhesion on the leaves, with a deposition of 1305.46 µg/cm2, whereas F. religiosa exhibited the lowest SPM deposition of 56.62 µg/cm2. Moreover, the statistical analysis indicated a positive correlation between ascorbic acid and chlorophyll content (R2 > 0.6) with APTI. Also, F. religiosa demonstrated a significant Pearson's correlation (P < 0.05) between chlorophyll content and SPM deposition during the pre-monsoon. The study highlighted the dynamic nature of plant-based air pollution mitigation. It offered valuable insights into the potential of green infrastructure as a sustainable solution for addressing air quality concerns in urban environments. The results emphasized the significance of selecting adequate plant species and considering seasonal variations in developing urban greening strategies to combat air pollution.

An Image-Guided Percutaneous Core Needle Biopsy for Accurate Assessment of Musculoskeletal Tumors: A Targeted Diagnosis.

Background Accurate diagnosis of musculoskeletal tumors is essential for guiding appropriate treatment strategies. Percutaneous core needle biopsy (PCNB) is increasingly recognized as a valuable method for obtaining tissue samples for histopathological examination. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of PCNB in diagnosing musculoskeletal tumors. Methodology A total of 152 cases suspected of musculoskeletal tumors underwent PCNB at our tertiary care center between 2020 and 2023. Pre-biopsy evaluation included comprehensive clinical assessment and imaging studies. Core biopsies were performed under image guidance, with specimens sent for histopathological examination and culture sensitivity analysis. Diagnostic yield, accuracy, and performance metrics of PCNB were assessed. Results PCNB demonstrated a diagnostic yield of 93.4%. However, in cases where initial biopsies were inconclusive, repeat core biopsy or open biopsy provided the necessary diagnostic clarity. PCNB demonstrated a remarkable diagnostic accuracy of 97.9%, with a specificity and positive predictive value of 100%. There were no post-biopsy complications and no instances of local recurrence from the biopsy tract. Conclusions PCNB can be a reliable method for diagnosing musculoskeletal tumors, offering high diagnostic accuracy and minimal complications. The utilization of image guidance enhances precision and reduces the risk of complications. PCNB proves effective in diagnosing both primary tumors and bone infections, facilitating timely and appropriate treatment strategies in orthopedic oncology.

PCA and fuzzy clustering-based delineation of soil nutrient (S, B, Zn, Mn, Fe, and Cu) management zones of sub-tropical Northeastern India for precision nutrient management.

Understanding the spatial distribution of plant available soil nutrients and influencing soil properties and delineation soil nutrient management zones (MZs) are important for implementing precision nutrient management options (PNMO) in an area to achieve maintainable crop production. We assessed spatial distribution pattern of plant available sulphur (S) (PAS), boron (B) (PAB), zinc (PAZn), manganese (PAMn), iron (PAFe), and copper (PACu), and soil organic carbon (SOC), pH, and electrical conductivity (EC) to delineate soil nutrients MZs in northeastern region of India. A total of 17,471 representative surface (0-15 cm depth) soil samples were collected from the region, processed, and analysed for above-mentioned soil parameters. The values of PAS (0.22-99.2 mg kg-1), PAB (0.01-6.45 mg kg-1), PAZn (0.05-13.9 mg kg-1), PAMn (0.08-158 mg kg-1), PAFe (0.50-472 mg kg-1), PACu (0.01-19.2 mg kg-1), SOC (0.01-5.80%), pH (3.19-7.56) and EC (0.01-1.66 dS m-1) varied widely with coefficient of variation of 15.5-108%. The semivariogram analysis highlighted exponential, Gaussian and stable best fitted models for soil parameters with weak (PACu), moderate (PAB, PAZn, PAFe, SOC, pH, and EC) and strong (PAS, and PAMn) spatial dependence. The ordinary kriging interpolation revealed different distribution patterns of soil parameters. About 14.8, 27.5, and 3.40% area of the region had PAS of ≤15.0 mg kg-1, PAB of ≤0.50 mg kg-1, and PAZn of had ≤0.90 mg kg-1, respectively. About 67.5, and 32.5% area had SOC content >1.00 and < 1.00%, respectively. Soil pH was ≤5.50, and >5.50 to ≤6.50 in 41.7 and 40.3% area of the region, respectively. The techniques of principal component analysis and fuzzy c-mean algorithm clustering produced 6 MZs of the region with different areas and values of soil parameters. The MZs had different levels of deficiency pertaining to PAS, PAB, and PAZn. The produced MZ maps could be used for managing PAS, PAB, PAZn, SOC and soil pH in order to implement PNMO. The study highlighted the usefulness of MZ delineation technique for implementation of PNMO in different cultivated areas for sustainable crop production.

Assessment of metals and metalloids agglutinated to airborne suspended particulate matter in selected plant species during the pre-and post-monsoon in the urban area.

The elemental accumulation has emerged as a major environmental concern due to various anthropogenic sources such as vehicles, road dust, and industrial activities, contributing to the agglutination of elements to airborne Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM). SPM-bound elements accumulate on plant surfaces impact air quality and human health due to their noxiousness. Therefore, plants' ability to capture and mitigate air pollutants plays a crucial role in urban areas. This study aimed to investigate the levels and distribution of twenty-six elements, comprised of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu Zn, Co, Ni, Fe, Mn, Ag, Mo, V, Ga, and Bi), light metals (B, As, Te, and Se), and metalloids (Al, Li, Sr, K, Mg, Na, Ca, and Ba) accumulated on the surface and inside the leaves of dominant plant species during the pre-and post-monsoon at six categorized (commercial, traffic-prone, residential, educational, greenbelt and industrial areas) locations in Delhi, India. In addition, the Metal Accumulation Index (MAI) was determined, and the statistical analysis was conducted using two-way ANOVA, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA). In the pre-and post-monsoon, two-way ANOVA revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in metal concentrations. During the pre-monsoon plants exhibited the highest metal accumulation (∼21%) at the Anand Vihar (commercial) in Delhi, with the maximum average concentrations of Cr (118.25 mg/kg), Cu (204.38 mg/kg), Zn (293.27 mg/kg), and Fe (2721.17 mg/kg). Ficus benghalensis L exhibited the maximum 213.73 MAI at the Anand Vihar in the pre-monsoon. Ni and Cr indicated the highest correlation (P < 0.05, r = 0.82) in the PCA test. HCA test revealed similarity (∼87.7%) at ITO (traffic-prone) and Okhla Phase-2 (industrial) in F. religiosa regarding metal concentration patterns. Findings highlighted seasonal elemental pollutants uptake dynamics of plant species and explored species-specific metal accumulation, revealing potential implications of metal-tolerant plants for urban greenbelt.

Prevalence of neural tube defect and its identification during antenatal period: a cross-sectional study in eastern Indian state.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of neural tube defects among all birth outcomes in Odisha during 2016-2022. Additionally, to estimate the identification rate of neural tube defects during Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan sessions. DESIGN: A population-based cross-sectional study with a household survey for neural tube defects using pictorial card as well as a hospital-based study for antenatal ultrasonography data. SETTING: The sample population was selected through multistage random sampling. In the first stage, one district from each zone was selected randomly. In the second stage, using simple random sampling, one community health centre and one urban primary health centre were selected from each district. In the third stage, the population from a block and ward were picked from the selected rural and urban settings, respectively. PARTICIPANTS: All married women in the reproductive age group (18-49 years) residing in these cluster villages in the selected districts were enrolled. RESULTS: The study surveyed 49 215 women and recorded 50 196 birth outcomes, including 49 174 live births, 890 stillbirths and 132 medical terminations of pregnancy. A total of 30 neural tube defect cases were detected. The overall prevalence rate of neural tube defect was 0.59 per 1000 birth outcomes. Spina bifida was the most prevalent neural tube defect with the prevalence of, followed by anencephaly and encephalocele. Despite 26 860 mothers receiving antenatal ultrasonography Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan session, data on neural tube defects and other birth defects detected through these scans is unavailable. CONCLUSION: This study found a low prevalence of neural tube defect in Odisha, which is far lower compared with the older studies from India. There is an urgent need to strengthen the quality of antenatal care services provided under Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan through better training regarding anomaly scans and better data keeping at public healthcare facilities. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CTRI/2021/06/034487.

Role of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Treatment of Fibromyalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and Objective: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disease characterized by widespread, persistent musculoskeletal pain in association with impaired health-related quality of life. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an emerging tool for the management of fibromyalgia. There is no standardized protocol of rTMS for the treatment of FMS, and both low- and high-frequency stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) are described in the literature with variable efficacy. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of rTMS in people with fibromyalgia and compare the response of low- and high-frequency stimulation with sham stimulation. Materials and Methods: This study was a single-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Ninety patients with the diagnosis of FMS were randomly allocated into one of the following three groups: low-frequency (1 Hz) group, high-frequency (10 Hz) group, and sham group. Pain, depression, anxiety, and quality of life were measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR) immediately following treatment as well as at 1 and 3 months after treatment. The data was statistically analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23 software. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Intergroup analysis revealed a significant improvement in NPRS, HAM-A, HDRS, and FIQR scores in both low- and high- frequency groups immediately following treatment and for 3 months after treatment. No significant difference in the efficacy of low- and high-frequency stimulation was noticed. Conclusions: rTMS is an effective mode of treatment in people with FMS. Both low and high frequencies of stimulation at DLPFC are equally effective in reducing pain and associated symptoms.

Primary Leiomyosarcoma of Suprahepatic Inferior Vena Cava with Metastases.

A 67-year-old female presented with shortness of breath, weight loss, abdomen, and back pain for 2 months. Ultrasound of the abdomen revealed multiple focal liver lesions. 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose whole-body positron emission tomography/computed tomography revealed a hypermetabolic lesion in the suprahepatic inferior vena cava extending into the right atrium. Multiple hypermetabolic lesions were seen in liver, bones, and abdominal lymph nodes, suggestive of metastases. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry of the lesions revealed it to be metastatic leiomyosarcoma.

A mathematical framework for analysing particle flow in a network with multiple pools.

In many real-world systems, the entry rate of particles into a lane is affected by the occupancy of nearby pools. For instance, in biological networks, the concentration of molecules on the side of a membrane affects the entry of particles through the membrane. To understand the behaviour of such networks, we develop a network model of ribosome flow models (RFMs) having multiple pools where each RFM captures the dynamics of particle flow in a lane and competes for the finite resources present at the nearby pool. We study a ribosome flow model network with two pools (RFMNTP) and show that the network always admits a steady state. We then analyse the behaviour of the RFMNTP with respect to modifying the transition rate through a theoretical framework. Simulations of the RFMNTP demonstrate a counterintuitive result. For example, increasing any of the transition rates in the presence of a slow site in an RFM can increase the output rate of some RFMs and decrease the output rate of the other RFMs simultaneously. This suggests that the role of local sharing of particles incorporated is non-trivial. Finally, we illustrate how these results can provide insights into studying a network with multiple pools.

Occurrence of Sphingomonas olei with elemental S oxidation capability in sodic soil: Potential role in sodicity reclamation and plant growth promotion.

The success of the sodic soil reclamation using elemental S (S°) depends on the population of the native S° oxidizers. Augmenting the native flora of the sodic soils with effective S° oxidizers can enhance the success of the sodic soil reclamation. Present study reports for the first time the S° oxidation potential of the Sphingomonas olei strain 20UP7 isolated from sodic soils with pHs 9.8 and ECe 3.6 dS m-1. Inoculation with S. olei strain 20UP7 caused 13.0-24.2 % increase in S° oxidation in different sodic soils (pHs 9.1-10.5). It improved the concentration of the Ca2+, Mg2+, PO43- and declined the HCO3- and total alkalinity of the soil solution. This isolate also showed appreciable P and Zn solubilization, indole acetic acid, ammonia, and titratable acidity production in the growth media. It tended to the formation of biofilm around sulphur particles. The PCR amplification with gene-specific primers showed the occurrence of soxA, soxB, and soxY genes with a single band corresponding to length of 850, 460, and 360 base pairs, respectively. The integration of the S. olei strain 20UP7 with S° caused 21.7-25.4 % increase in the rice and wheat yield compared to the soil treated with S° alone. This study concludes that the S. olei, native to high saline-sodic soils can be utilized for improving the sodicity reclamation and plant growth promotion using elemental S based formulations.

Similar and divergent responses to salinity stress of jamun (Syzygium cumini L. Skeels) genotypes.

Background: Genetic variation for salt tolerance remains elusive in jamun (Syzygium cumini). Methods: Effects of gradually increased salinity (2.0-12.0 dS/m) were examined in 20 monoembryonic and 28 polyembryonic genotypes of jamun. Six genotypes were additionally assessed for understanding salt-induced changes in gas exchange attributes and antioxidant enzymes. Results: Salt-induced reductions in leaf, stem, root and plant dry mass (PDM) were relatively greater in mono- than in poly-embryonic types. Reductions in PDM relative to control implied more adverse impacts of salinity on genotypes CSJ-28, CSJ-31, CSJ-43 and CSJ-47 (mono) and CSJ-1, CSJ-24, CSJ-26 and CSJ-27 (poly). Comparably, some mono- (CSJ-5, CSJ-18) and poly-embryonic (CSJ-7, CSJ-8, CSJ-14, CSJ-19) genotypes exhibited least reductions in PDM following salt treatment. Most polyembryonic genotypes showed lower reductions in root than in shoot mass, indicating that they may be more adept at absorbing water and nutrients when exposed to salt. The majority of genotypes did not exhibit leaf tip burn and marginal scorch despite significant increases in Na+ and Cl-, suggesting that tissue tolerance existed for storing excess Na+ and Cl- in vacuoles. Jamun genotypes were likely more efficient in Cl- exclusion because leaf, stem and root Cl- levels were consistently lower than those of Na+ under salt treatment. Leaf K+ was particularly little affected in genotypes with high leaf Na+. Lack of discernible differences in leaf, stem and root Ca2+ and Mg2+ contents between control and salt treatments was likely due to their preferential uptake. Correlation analysis suggested that Na+ probably had a greater inhibitory effect on biomass in both mono- and poly-embryonic types. Discriminant analysis revealed that while stem and root Cl- probably accounted for shared responses, root Na+, leaf K+ and leaf Cl- explained divergent responses to salt stress of mono- and poly-embryonic types. Genotypes CSJ-18 and CSJ-19 seemed efficient in fending off oxidative damage caused by salt because of their stronger antioxidant defences. Conclusions: Polyembryonic genotypes CSJ-7, CSJ-8, CSJ-14 and CSJ-19, which showed least reductions in biomass even after prolonged exposure to salinity stress, may be used as salt-tolerant rootstocks. The biochemical and molecular underpinnings of tissue tolerance to excess Na+ and Cl- as well as preferential uptake of K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ need to be elucidated.

Characterization of Alternaria blotch disease of apple in Himachal Pradesh, India: insights on morphology, pathogenicity, and molecular features.

BACKGROUND: Alternaria blotch disease in Himachal Pradesh, India, caused by Alternaria spp., adversely affects apple cultivars, resulting in reduced fruit size and quality accompanied by premature leaf fall. METHODS AND RESULTS: Sixteen Alternaria isolates from apple growing regions underwent comprehensive analysis including morphology, pathogenicity, and molecular characterization. Variations in conidiophore and conidia dimensions, shapes, and divisions were observed among isolates. Pathogenicity assays revealed differences in incubation periods, latent phases, and disease responses. Molecular characterization via nuclear ITS rDNA and RAPD analysis indicated 99-100% homology with Alternaria alternata, Alternaria mali, and other Alternaria spp., with a close phylogenetic relationship to Chinese isolates. Differentiation of isolates based on origin, cultural characteristics, and morphology was achieved using RAPD markers. CONCLUSIONS: The study identifies diverse genotypes and morphotypes of Alternaria contributing to apple blotch disease in Himachal Pradesh. These findings highlight the complexity of the pathogenic environment and hold significant implications for disease management in apple orchards.

Advancement in Cancer Vasculogenesis Modeling through 3D Bioprinting Technology.

Cancer vasculogenesis is a pivotal focus of cancer research and treatment given its critical role in tumor development, metastasis, and the formation of vasculogenic microenvironments. Traditional approaches to investigating cancer vasculogenesis face significant challenges in accurately modeling intricate microenvironments. Recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology present promising solutions to these challenges. This review provides an overview of cancer vasculogenesis and underscores the importance of precise modeling. It juxtaposes traditional techniques with 3D bioprinting technologies, elucidating the advantages of the latter in developing cancer vasculogenesis models. Furthermore, it explores applications in pathological investigations, preclinical medication screening for personalized treatment and cancer diagnostics, and envisages future prospects for 3D bioprinted cancer vasculogenesis models. Despite notable advancements, current 3D bioprinting techniques for cancer vasculogenesis modeling have several limitations. Nonetheless, by overcoming these challenges and with technological advances, 3D bioprinting exhibits immense potential for revolutionizing the understanding of cancer vasculogenesis and augmenting treatment modalities.

Guardians of the Gut: Harnessing the Power of Probiotic Microbiota and Their Exopolysaccharides to Mitigate Heavy Metal Toxicity in Human for Better Health.

Heavy metal pollution is a significant global health concern, posing risks to both the environment and human health. Exposure to heavy metals happens through various channels like contaminated water, food, air, and workplaces, resulting in severe health implications. Heavy metals also disrupt the gut's microbial balance, leading to dysbiosis characterized by a decrease in beneficial microorganisms and proliferation in harmful ones, ultimately exacerbating health problems. Probiotic microorganisms have demonstrated their ability to adsorb and sequester heavy metals, while their exopolysaccharides (EPS) exhibit chelating properties, aiding in mitigating heavy metal toxicity. These beneficial microorganisms aid in restoring gut integrity through processes like biosorption, bioaccumulation, and biotransformation of heavy metals. Incorporating probiotic strains with high affinity for heavy metals into functional foods and supplements presents a practical approach to mitigating heavy metal toxicity while enhancing gut health. Utilizing probiotic microbiota and their exopolysaccharides to address heavy metal toxicity offers a novel method for improving human health through modulation of the gut microbiome. By combining probiotics and exopolysaccharides, a distinctive strategy emerges for mitigating heavy metal toxicity, highlighting promising avenues for therapeutic interventions and health improvements. Further exploration in this domain could lead to groundbreaking therapies and preventive measures, underscoring probiotic microbiota and exopolysaccharides as natural and environmentally friendly solutions to heavy metal toxicity. This, in turn, could enhance public health by safeguarding the gut from environmental contaminants.

Relaxor ferroelectric-like glassy dielectric dispersion in the triple perovskite Ba3CoSb2O9.

In this work, the dielectric response of polycrystalline Ba3CoSb2O9 was studied as a function of temperature (30 to 900 °C) and frequency (10 Hz to 10 MHz). The triple perovskite Ba3CoSb2O9 was successfully synthesized and characterized for structural and dielectric properties. The Rietveld analysis of the X-ray diffractogram confirms the formation of a hexagonal phase with P63/mmc symmetry. This centrosymmetric 3(BaCo1/3Sb2/3O3) perovskite shows structural similarity to a prototypical non-centrosymmetric relaxor ferroelectric, PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3. The dielectric constant, ε', follows a non-Debye Cole-Cole relation and exhibits anomalous responses such as: (a) a thermally activated colossal dielectric constant (>105) and (b) a highly dispersive peak maximum (523-853 K). The real part of ac conductivity, σ', also shows a change of approximately 6 orders in magnitude (10-8 to 10-2 S m-1). Validation of Jonscher's law and impedance (Nyquist plot) and modulus (M'') analyses indicate that hopping polarization is the predominant thermally activated mechanism. Moreover, the large value of ε' and its dispersion were found to be highly correlated with the underlying crystal structure and were attributed to the local ionic site ordering. The study suggests that the anomalous dielectric dispersion must have an intrinsic origin.

Long-Term Outcome Analysis of Surgically Treated Talus Fractures in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Aim The present study aims to look at the long-term clinical and radiological outcomes of surgically treated talus fractures. We have compared the outcomes and complications between simple and complex talar fracture patterns. Additionally, patients' ability to return to activity following surgical treatment of these fractures was also analysed. Materials and methods Retrospective analysis of surgically treated talus fractures at the PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research from 2012 to 2015. The fractures were classified as neck and body fractures. The fractures were classified anatomically (neck and body) based on their severity (simple and complex) fracture patterns. A radiological assessment was done at follow-up to assess for complications of malunion, avascular necrosis (AVN), and arthritis. The outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the Maryland foot score (MFS). Results Twenty patients were included in the analysis. There were 12 talar neck and eight body fractures, subclassified into simple (10) and complex fracture patterns (10). The surgical approach involved either a medial malleolus osteotomy/via fractured medial malleolus (55%) or a non-osteotomy-based approach (anteromedial (AM)/anterolateral (AL)/combined AM and AL) (45%). The average AOFAS score was 71.34, while the MFS was 74.35. The outcomes were consistently unfavourable for patients with complex fractures with a higher propensity for complications, but no difference was observed when comparing neck and body fractures. There was a 10% incidence of malreduction in the non-osteotomy-based approach group. AVN was found in 35% of cases, and post-traumatic arthritis occurred in 75% of cases during the five-year follow-up period. Conclusion The findings of the present study consistently reiterate the propensity for complex talus fractures to develop complications like AVN and post-traumatic arthritis in the long term. This study serves to help predict talus fractures based on their severity, with poor outcomes noted with more complex fracture types. We also advocate a more extensile medial malleolus osteotomy-based approach to better visualise complex body fractures of the talus and obtain more anatomical reduction.

Identification, validation and quantification of thymoquinone in conjunction with assessment of bioactive possessions and GC-MS profiling of pharmaceutically valuable crop Nigella (Nigella sativa L.) varieties.

Background: Plants have been pivotal in traditional and modern medicine globally, with historical evidence supporting their therapeutic applications. Nigella (Nigella sativa L.) is an annual herbaceous plant of the Ranunculaceae family and is cultivated in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Western and Central Asia. The medicinal use of plants dates back thousands of years, documented in ancient writings from various civilizations. Alkaloids, phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, anthraquinones, and tannins found in plants exhibit antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities. Methodology: This study specifically examines the pharmacological potential of Nigella sativa L., emphasizing thymoquinone-a compound with diverse nutraceutical benefits. The extraction, characterization, and quantification of thymoquinone, alongside other physicochemical parameters, were carried out using ethanol through Soxhlet extraction procedures on five nigella varieties. HPLC analysis was performed to determine the maximum accumulation of thymoquinone in the released variety of the plant and the chemical composition of the seed oil isolated from Nigella sativa L., varieties utilized in the study was determined through GC-MS analysis. Results: The research revealed that the Ajmer nigella-20 variety stands out, exhibiting elevated levels of thymoquinone (0.20 ± 0.07%), antioxidants (76.18 ± 1.78%), and substantial quantities of total phenols (31.85 ± 0.97 mg GAEg-1 seed) and flavonoids (8.150 ± 0.360 mg QE 100 g-1 seed) compared to other varieties. The GC-MS profiling showed the presence of 11 major compounds in the studied varieties, with p-cymene, longifolene, and myristic acid identified as the major chemical compounds present in the oil. Conclusion: The observed variations among Nigella varieties indicate the Ajmer nigella-20 variety as particularly promising for thymoquinone and bioactive compound extraction. This study underscores Nigella's potential as a source of pharmacologically active compounds, highlighting the need for further exploration in therapeutic applications.

Navigating the intersection of psychiatry and ophthalmology: A comprehensive review of depression and anxiety management in glaucoma patients.

Glaucoma, a prevalent and debilitating eye disease, has long been associated with vision impairment and blindness. However, recent research has shed light on the often-underestimated psychological dimensions of this condition. Anxiety and depression, two pervasive psychiatric comorbidities, have been increasingly recognized among glaucoma patients. This comprehensive review aims to explore the intricate relationship between psychiatry and ophthalmology, in the context of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients. By meticulously examining peer-reviewed literature, we synthesize current knowledge on the prevalence, risk factors, and underlying mechanisms of anxiety and depression in glaucoma. The evidence reveals that glaucoma patients face an elevated risk of experiencing these mood disorders. Factors such as progressive vision loss, complex medication regimens, and the fear of further visual deterioration contribute to their vulnerability. Moreover, we delve into the bidirectional relationship between glaucoma and mood disorders, shedding light on the complex interplay between ocular and emotional health. Our review investigates the implications of anxiety and depression on glaucoma management, including their potential impact on treatment adherence, disease progression, and overall quality of life. We also explore the neurobiological pathways linking glaucoma and mood disorders, providing a foundation for future research and potential therapeutic interventions. In conclusion, recognizing the psychological burden carried by glaucoma patients is essential for holistic and patient-centered care. This review underscores the pressing need for integrated approaches that bring together ophthalmological and psychiatric expertise to optimize the well-being of individuals facing the challenges of glaucoma. By addressing anxiety and depression in glaucoma care, healthcare providers can enhance the overall quality of life for these patients, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and a brighter future for those affected by this condition. This review offers valuable insight for healthcare practitioners and researchers, providing a concise overview of key topics and research in the field of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.

Experimental evaluation of accuracy and efficiency of two control strategies for a novel foot commanded robotic laparoscope holders with surgeons.

The implementation of a laparoscope-holding robot in minimally invasive surgery enhances the efficiency and safety of the operation. However, the extra robot control task can increase the cognitive load on surgeons. A suitable interface may simplify the control task and reduce the surgeon load. Foot interfaces are commonly used for commanding laparoscope-holding robots, with two control strategies available: decoupled control permits only one Cartesian axis actuation, known as decoupled commands; hybrid control allows for both decoupled commands and multiple axes actuation, known as coupled commands. This paper aims to determine the optimal control strategy for foot interfaces by investigating two common assumptions in the literature: (1) Decoupled control is believed to result in better predictability of the final laparoscopic view orientation, and (2) Hybrid control has the efficiency advantage in laparoscope control. Our user study with 11 experienced and trainee surgeons shows that decoupled control has better predictability than hybrid control, while both approaches are equally efficient. In addition, using two surgery-like tasks in a simulator, users' choice of decoupled and coupled commands is analysed based on their level of surgical experience and the nature of the movement. Results show that trainee surgeons tend to issue more commands than the more experienced participants. Single decoupled commands were frequently used in small view adjustments, while a mixture of coupled and decoupled commands was preferred in larger view adjustments. A guideline for foot interface control strategy selection is provided.