Unveiling the potential of polymer cholesteric liquid crystal interpenetrating networks as a label-free alcohol biochemical sensor.

In this study, an optical sensor is developed, incorporating hydrogen-bonded photonic array dots containing poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) within a polymer cholesteric liquid crystal interpenetrating polymer network (PCLCIPN) framework, thereby effectively controlling porosity. This methodology involves the fabrication of a porous photonic film, subsequent infusion with a hydrogel (PAA), and precise UV-curing to generate patterned array dots. The sensor exhibits exceptional discriminatory capability between methanol and ethanol, accurately discerning their varying concentrations within alcohol solutions. The optical sensing performance of the film is rigorously evaluated through continuous monitoring of wavelength shifts in the transmission spectrum across various alcohol concentrations. Notably, the observed wavelength shifts demonstrate a linear correlation with the concentration of alcohol, thereby enabling precise quantitative analysis of the alcohol solutions. The sensor exhibits a sensitivity of 0.44 nm/% for ethanol concentrations ranging from 5% to 60%, increasing to 2.1 nm/% for concentrations between 60% and 80%. Similarly, for methanol, sensitivities of 0.68 nm/% (5-60%) and 2.2 nm/% (60-80%) are recorded. Remarkably, this sensitivity trend extends seamlessly to 1 : 1 ethanol/methanol ratios, with values of 0.49 nm/% (5-60%) and 2.25 nm/% (60-80%). Furthermore, these sensors demonstrate colorimetric response to different alcohols, rendering them accessible and cost-effective biosensors for visual detection, thus obviating the necessity for complex analytical instruments.

Nano-Formulation Approaches to Enhance Transdermal Drug Delivery-An Updated Review of Nanovesicular Carrier "Transethosomes".

Transdermal drug delivery is an attractive and patient-friendly route for administering therapeutic agents. However, the skin's natural barrier, the stratum corneum, restricts the passage of many drugs, limiting their effectiveness. To overcome this challenge, researchers have developed various nanocarriers to enhance drug penetration through the skin. Transethosomes, a novel and promising drug delivery system, have emerged as an innovative solution for improving transdermal drug delivery. Transethosomes are a hybrid of two established nanocarriers: ethosomes and transfersomes. Ethosomes are lipid-based vesicles that can accommodate lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs, while transfersomes are deformable lipid vesicles designed to enhance skin penetration. Transethosomes combine the advantages of both systems, making them ideal candidates for efficient transdermal drug delivery. They are composed of phospholipids, ethanol, and water and exhibit high flexibility, enabling them to squeeze through the tight junctions of the stratum corneum. This abstract reviews the key characteristics of transethosomes, including their composition, preparation methods, mechanisms of action, characterization parameters, and prospects. Moreover, the recent advancements and applications of transethosomes in delivering various therapeutic agents, such as analgesics, anti-inflammatories, hormones, and skincare products, are explored. The enhanced skin penetration capabilities of transethosomes can potentially reduce systemic side effects and improve patient compliance, making them a valuable tool in the field of transdermal drug delivery. In conclusion, transethosomes represent a promising platform for overcoming the challenges of transdermal drug delivery. Their unique properties enable efficient drug permeation through the skin, offering a more controlled and effective means of administering a wide range of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. This abstract highlights the potential of transethosomes as a valuable addition to the field of transdermal drug delivery and paves the way for further research and development in this area.

Phyto-Fabrication of Moringa Oleifera Peel-Sourced Silver Nanoparticles: A Promising Approach for Combating Hepatic Cancer by Targeting Proinflammatory Cytokines and Mitigating Cytokine Storms.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arises from precancerous nodules, leading to liver damage and inflammation, which triggers the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Dysregulation of these cytokines can escalate into a cytokine storm, causing severe organ damage. Interestingly, Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) fruit peel, previously discarded as waste, contains an abundance of essential biomolecules and high nutritional value. This study focuses on the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles infused with M. oleifera peel extract biomolecules and their impact on regulating proinflammatory cytokines, as well as their potential anticancer effects against Wistar rats. The freshly synthesized nanoformulation underwent comprehensive characterization, followed by antihepatic cancer evaluation using a diethyl nitrosamine-induced model (at a dose of 200 mg kg-1 BW). The study demonstrates a significant reduction in proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-1ß, and nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB). Furthermore, it confirms that the newly biosynthesized silver nanoparticles exhibit additional potential against hepatic cancer due to their capped biomolecules.

Flap blood glucose measurement for flap monitoring and early detection of circulatory problems.

Postoperative monitoring of skin flaps is subjective and cannot detect early circulatory problems in the flap. Early detection and rapid remedial re-exploration are important for flap salvage. We evaluated flap glucose measurement to monitor the flaps for early detection of circulatory problems. In total, 30 patients underwent cutaneous flap reconstruction. This is an easy, economic, objective, and reliable method for flap monitoring and can detect early venous congestion requiring remedial measures.

Revisiting the Mitochondrial Function and Communication in Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Neurodegenerative disorders are distinguished by the progressive loss of anatomically or physiologically relevant neural systems. Atypical mitochondrial morphology and metabolic malfunction are found in many neurodegenerative disorders. Alteration in mitochondrial function can occur as a result of aberrant mitochondrial DNA, altered nuclear enzymes that interact with mitochondria actively or passively, or due to unexplained reasons. Mitochondria are intimately linked to the Endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and ER-mitochondrial communication governs several of the physiological functions and procedures that are disrupted in neurodegenerative disorders. Numerous researchers have associated these disorders with ER-mitochondrial interaction disturbance. In addition, aberrant mitochondrial DNA mutation and increased ROS production resulting in ionic imbalance and leading to functional and structural alterations in the brain as well as cellular damage may have an essential role in disease progression via mitochondrial malfunction. In this review, we explored the evidence highlighting the role of mitochondrial alterations in neurodegenerative pathways in most serious ailments, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD).

A novel approach to low-cost, rapid and simultaneous colorimetric detection of multiple analytes using 3D printed microfluidic channels.

This research paper presents an inventive technique to swiftly create microfluidic channels on distinct membrane papers, enabling colorimetric drug detection. Using a modified DIY RepRap 3D printer with a syringe pump, microfluidic channels (µPADs) are crafted on a flexible nylon-based substrate. This allows simultaneous detection of four common drugs with a single reagent. An optimized blend of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) dissolved in hexane is used to create hydrophobic channels on various filter papers. The PDMS-hexane mixture infiltrates the paper's pores, forming hydrophobic barriers that confine liquids within the channels. These barriers are cured on the printer's hot plate, controlling channel width and preventing spreading. Capillary action drives fluid along these paths without spreading. This novel approach provides a versatile solution for rapid microfluidic channel creation on membrane papers. The DIY RepRap 3D printer integration offers precise control and faster curing. The PDMS-hexane solution accurately forms hydrophobic barriers, containing liquids within desired channels. The resulting microfluidic system holds potential for portable, cost-effective drug detection and various sensing applications.

Effect of Crown Layers on Reproductive Effort and Success in Andromonoecious Aesculus indica (Wall. ex Camb.) Hook (Sapindaceae) in a Temperate Forest of Garhwal Himalaya.

The andromonoecy is an unusual sex expression in trees in which an individual plant bears both functionally staminate and hermaphrodite flowers on the inflorescences. This study aims to investigate the effect of crown layers on the floral biology and reproductive effort of Aesculus indica (Wall. ex Camb.) Hook. The results revealed that the peak period of anthesis was between 06:00 and 08:00 h of the day. Male flower production was predominantly higher as compared to the perfect flowers on the inflorescences. There was no significant variation between total pollen production in staminate and perfect flowers. Features like protogyny and inter-level asynchrony promote xenogamy; however, intra-level asynchrony results in geitonogamy. Controlled pollination treatments revealed the existence of self-incompatibility in flowers. Pollination syndromes in flowers support ambophily. A trend of consistent improvement in reproductive success from lower canopy layers to upper crown layers in the analyzed trees was recorded. The crown layers have a significant impact on flower production, fruit, and seed set. An increase in male flower production due to the increment in the crown is a mechanism of reproductive assurance as a pollen donor and pollinator recipient and also due to the differential cost of expenditure of reproduction in crown layers. Andromonoecy in A. indica promotes self-incompatibility, and there was a tapering trend of reproductive success in the crown layers.

Investigating the impact of adjunctive priming repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in late-life depression: a pilot single-blind randomized control study.

BACKGROUND: Conventional treatment methods have limited effectiveness in addressing late-life depression (LLD) that does not respond well. While a new approach called priming repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown promise in treating depression in adults, its effectiveness in LLD has not been explored. This study aimed to investigate the impact of priming rTMS on LLD. METHODS: This study investigated the effectiveness of priming rTMS in 31 patients with LLD who did not improve after an adequate trial of antidepressants. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either active priming rTMS or sham priming rTMS. Active priming rTMS was delivered over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for 10 sessions, lasting 31 minutes each, over a period of 2 weeks. RESULTS: The group receiving active priming rTMS demonstrated greater improvements in scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (p < 0.037; partial η2 0.141) and the Geriatric Depression Rating Scale (p < 0.045; partial η2 0.131) compared to the sham priming group, with a mild effect size. At the end of the second and fourth weeks, the priming rTMS group achieved a response rate of 50%, while the sham priming group had response rates of 26.7% and 6.7%, respectively. No adverse effects requiring intervention were observed. CONCLUSION: Priming rTMS is well-tolerated for the treatment of LLD and not only reduces the severity of depression but also maintains the achieved response over time.

Analysis of Auxin-Encoding Gene Family in Vigna radiata and It's Cross-Species Expression Modulating Waterlogging Tolerance in Wild Vigna umbellata.

Mungbean is known to be susceptible to waterlogging (WL) stress. Some of the wild species have the potential to tolerate this through various physiological and molecular mechanisms. Auxin Response Factor (ARF) and Auxin/Indole Acetic Acid (AUX/IAA), an early responsive gene family, has multiple functions in growth, development, and stress tolerance. Here, we report the first comprehensive analysis of the ARF and AUX/IAA gene family in mungbean. A total of 26 ARF and 19 AUX/IAA genes were identified from the mungbean genome. The ARF and AUX/IAA candidates were clearly grouped into two major clades. Further, the subgrouping within the major clades indicated the presence of significant diversity. The gene structure, motif analysis, and protein characterization provided the clue for further fundamental research. Out of the10 selected candidate genes, VrARF-5, VrARF-11, VrARF-25, and VrAUX/IAA-9 were found to significantly multiple-fold gene expression in the hypocotyl region of WL-tolerant wild relatives (PRR 2008-2) provides new insight into a role in the induction of lateral root formation under WL stress. The analysis provides an insight into the structural diversity of ARF and AUX/IAA genes in mungbean. These results increase our understanding of ARF and AUX/IAA genes and therefore offer robust information for functional investigations, which can be taken up in the future and will form a foundation for improving tolerance against waterlogging stress.

Antibiotics and nano-antibiotics in treatment of lung infection: In management of COVID-19.

The world has witnessed the cruelty of COVID-19 disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The association of COVID-19 with other secondary and bacterial co-infections has tremendously contributed to lung infections. An increased probability of having a secondary lung infection was observed among the post-COVID patients. The treatment of antibiotics has ameliorated the mortality rate. However, the stewardship of antibiotic treatment was linked to increased organ failure. Therefore, the paper discusses the interactions between the virus and host through the ACE2 receptors that contribute to COVID-19 development. Furthermore, the paper provides an invaluable compendium history of SARS-CoV-2 genomic composition. It revolves around most classes of antibiotics used to treat COVID-19 disease and post-COVID lung infections with the complete mechanism. This binds with the exertion of the antibiotics for bacterial infection associated with COVID-19 patients and how beneficial and effective responses have been recorded for the treatment. The application of nanotechnology and possible approaches of nanomedicines is also discussed to its potential usage.

Investigating the impact of terminal heat stress on contrasting wheat cultivars: a comprehensive analysis of phenological, physiological, and biochemical traits.

Terminal heat stress has become one of the major threats due to global climate change which is significantly affecting the production and productivity of wheat crop. Therefore, it is necessary to identify key traits and genotypes to breed heat-tolerant wheat. The present study was undertaken with the objective of comparing the effects of heat stress (HSE) and extended heat stress (EHSE) on phenological-physio-biochemical traits of contrasting heat-tolerant and heat-susceptible genotypes during the reproductive phase. Phenological traits exhibited significant reduction under EHSE compared to HSE. Heat-tolerant genotypes maintained balanced phenological-physio-biochemical traits, while heat-sensitive genotypes showed significant reductions under both stress regimes. Among phenological traits, DM (R2 = 0.52) and BY (R2 = 0.44) have shown a positive effect on seed yield, indicating that biomass and crop duration contributed to the yield advantage under stress. During the grain filling stage, both the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and chlorophyll (Chl) exhibited consistently positive impacts on grain yield under both HSE and EHSE conditions. This could be attributed to the enhanced photosynthesis resulting from delayed senescence and improved assimilate remobilization under terminal heat stress. The biochemical activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POX), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) was induced in tolerant genotypes under HSE. The correlation of canopy temperature with phenological-physio-biochemical traits remained static under HSE and EHSE, suggesting CT as the best selection parameter for heat tolerance. The traits showing a positive association with yield and that are less affected under stress could be used for selecting tolerant genotypes under stress environments. These tolerant genotypes can be used to develop mapping populations to decipher the genes conferring tolerance as well as to study the molecular basis of tolerance.

Fine-Tuning of Ni/NiO over H-NbOx for Enhanced Eugenol Hydrogenation through Enhanced Oxygen Vacancies and Synergistic Participation of Active Sites.

The hydrogenation of lignin-derived phenolics to produce valuable chemicals is a promising but challenging task. This study successfully demonstrates the use of sustainable transition metal-based catalysts to hydrogenate lignin-derived phenolics. A defect-induced oxygen vacancy containing H-NbOx prepared from commercial Nb2O5 was employed as a catalyst. H-NbOx exhibited higher oxygen vacancies (158.21 µmol/g) than commercial Nb2O5 (39.01 µmol/g), evaluated from O2-TPD. Upon supporting 10 wt % Ni, a Ni/NiO interface was formed over H-NbOx, which was intrinsically active for the hydrogenation of phenolics. 10Ni/H-NbOx exhibited a two-fold increase in activity than 10Ni/Nb2O5, achieving >99% eugenol conversion and affording ∼94% 4-propyl cyclohexanol selectivity, wherein ∼63% eugenol conversion and ∼73% 4-propyl cyclohexanol selectivity were obtained over 10Ni/Nb2O5. The Ni/NiO formation was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, HR-TEM, and H2-TPR analysis, while the oxygen vacancies were verified by Raman spectroscopy and O2-TPD analysis. The resulting interface enhanced the synergy between Ni and H-NbOx and facilitated hydrogen dissociation, confirmed by H2-TPD. Remarkably, 10Ni/H-NbOx maintained its catalytic activity for five tested cycles and demonstrated exceptional activity with various phenolics. Our findings highlight the potential of a sustainable transition metal catalyst for the hydrogenation of lignin-derived phenolic compounds, which could pave the path to producing valuable chemicals in an environmentally friendly manner.

Pathological analysis and antimicrobial susceptibility of Chryseobacterium balustinum RTFCP 298 isolated from diseased rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss.

In this study, six isolates of Chryseobacterium balustinum were characterized from diseased rainbow trout fingerlings. The virulence characteristics, pathogenicity, and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of these isolates were investigated. The bacterium showed positive results for catalase, cytochrome oxidase, and aesculin hydrolysis, while negative results were obtained for DNase, gelatinase, methyl red, Voges-Proskauer's reaction, Simon citrate, Hydrogen sulphide, and starch hydrolysis. Amino acid metabolism analysis revealed the inability to metabolize arginine, lysine, and ornithine decarboxylase. Molecular characterization (16S rRNA) and phylogenetic analysis revealed the test isolates as C. balustinum, closely related to strain WLT (99.85% similarity) and C. balustinum P-27 (99.77%). Virulence assay indicated haemolytic activity and biofilm formation by the test bacterium. The challenge test confirmed moderate pathogenicity in rainbow trout and established Koch's postulates. The clinical manifestations of infection included fin erosion, eye and body surface haemorrhage, exophthalmia, and organ liquefaction. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of various antimicrobials ranged from 1 to > 256 µg mL-1. The novel synthetic antimicrobial peptides exhibited MICs of 8 to > 256 µg mL-1, suggesting a potential control method. These findings suggest that C. balustinum is an opportunistic pathogen with moderate pathogenicity in rainbow trout. Further research on the host-pathogen relationship is necessary to understand virulence characteristics and pathogenicity in aquaculture.

A Narrative Review of Signaling Pathway and Treatment Options for Diabetic Nephropathy.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic nephropathy is a progressive kidney disease that frequently results in end-stage renal disorders and is characterized by proteinuria, albuminuria, decreased filtration, and renal fibrosis. Despite the fact that there are a number of therapeutic alternatives available, DN continues to be the main contributor to end-stage renal disease. Therefore, significant innovation is required to enhance outcomes in DN patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Information was collected from online search engines like, Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Sci-Hub databases using keywords like diabetes, nephropathy, kidney disease, autophagy, etc. Result: Natural compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and impact various signaling pathways. They ameliorate kidney damage by decreasing oxidative stress, inflammatory process, and fibrosis and enhance the antioxidant system, most likely by activating and deactivating several signaling pathways. This review focuses on the role of metabolic memory and various signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis of DN and therapeutic approaches available for the management of DN. Special attention is given to the various pathways modulated by the phytoconstituents.

Screening of Comprehensive Panel of Cultivated and Wild Vigna Species for Resistance to Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis L.

Pulses are a key source of dietary proteins in human nutrition. Despite several efforts to increase the production, various constraints, such as biotic and abiotic factors, threaten pulse production by various means. Bruchids (Callosobruchus spp.) are the serious issue of concern, particularly in storage conditions. Understanding host-plant resistance at morphological, biochemical and molecular levels is the best way to minimize yield losses. The 117 mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) genotypes, including endemic wild relatives, were screened for resistance against Callosobruchus chinensis; among them, two genotypes, PRR 2008-2 and PRR 2008-2-sel, which belong to V. umbellata (Thumb.), were identified as highly resistant. The expression of antioxidants in susceptible and resistant genotypes revealed that the activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) was upregulated in the highly resistant wild Vigna species and lower in the cultivated susceptible genotypes, along with other biomarkers. Further, the SCoT-based genotyping revealed SCoT-30 (200 bp), SCoT-31 (1200 bp) and SCoT-32 (300 bp) as unique amplicons, which might be useful for developing the novel ricebean-based SCAR markers to accelerate the molecular breeding programme.

Tailoring the microstructure of BiVO4 sensing electrode by nanoparticle decoration and its effect on hazardous NH3 sensing.

Real-time monitoring and quantification of exhaust pollutants is crucial but is troublesome because of extremely harsh thermochemical conditions, and in this regard mixed-potential sensing technology can be a realistic solution. In this study, BiVO4 nanoparticles are decorated onto the preformed porous sensing electrode (SE) backbone by homogeneous infiltration process to improve the sensing performance in mixed-potential sensor. The influence of nanoparticle decoration on phase composition, microstructure and sensing performance are analyzed by physical and electrochemical techniques. Corresponding results indicate that the microstructure tailoring enhances the sensor performance, by extending the triple phase boundary (TPB) and surface area of SE itself. The sensitivity (-119.47 mV/decade) and response time (20 s) of i-BVO SE-based sensor at 600 â„ƒ are 20 % higher and 8 s faster than bare BiVO4 SE-based sensor (99.24 mV/decade and 28 s). Additionally, the i-BVOǀYSZǀPt cell exhibits good selectivity and cross-sensitivity toward NH3 without any dependency on oxygen partial pressure (pO2). The fabricated sensor is also found stable towards cyclic and long-term operations. Electrochemical Impendence Spectroscopy (EIS) and DC polarization studies were performed to confirm the mixed-potential behavior. Conclusively, the superior sensing performance of i-BVO SE compared to various oxide based SEs highlights its suitability for mixed-potential NH3 sensing.

Design and Application of Materials for Sequestration and Immobilization of 99Tc.

99Technetium (99Tc) is a hazardous radionuclide that poses a serious environmental threat. The wide variation and complex chemistries of liquid nuclear waste streams containing 99Tc often create unique, site specific challenges when sequestering and immobilizing the waste in a matrix suitable for long-term storage and disposal. Therefore, an effective management plan for 99Tc containing liquid radioactive wastes (such as storage (tanks) and decommissioned wastes) will likely require a variety of suitable materials/matrixes capable of adapting to and addressing these challenges. In this review, we discuss and highlight the key developments for effective removal and immobilization of 99Tc liquid waste in inorganic waste forms. Specifically, we review the synthesis, characterization, and application of materials for the targeted removal of 99Tc from (simulated) waste solutions under various experimental conditions. These materials include (i) layered double hydroxides (LDHs), (ii) metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), (iii) ion-exchange resins (IERs) as well as cationic organic polymers (COPs), (iv) surface modified natural clay materials (SMCMs), and (v) graphene-based materials (GBMs). Second, we discuss some of the major and recent developments toward 99Tc immobilization in (i) glass, (ii) cement, and (iii) iron mineral waste forms. Finally, we present future challenges that need to be addressed for the design, synthesis, and selection of suitable matrixes for the efficient sequestration and immobilization of 99Tc from targeted wastes. The purpose of this review is to inspire research on the design and application of various suitable materials/matrixes for selective removal of 99Tc present globally in different radioactive wastes and its immobilization in stable/durable waste forms.

Spectrum, Outcomes, and Mortality Predictors of Acute Kidney Injury among Non-COVID-19 Patients during COVID-19 Pandemic: Data from Four Intensive Care Units.

Introduction: The data of acute kidney injury (AKI), that is, community-acquired AKI (CA-AKI) and hospital-acquired AKI (HA-AKI) among non-COVID patients from intensive care units (ICU) during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are scarce. We planned to study the change in the profile of such patients compared to the pre-pandemic era. Materials and methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at four ICUs dealing with non-COVID patients at a government hospital in North India, and was aimed at assessing outcomes, and mortality predictors of AKI among non-COVID patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Renal and patient survival at ICU transfer-out and hospital discharge, ICU and hospital stay duration, mortality predictors, and dialysis requirement at discharge were evaluated. The current or previous COVID-19 infection, previous AKI or chronic kidney disease (CKD), organ donors, and organ transplant patients were excluded. Results: Among the 200 non-COVID-19 AKI patients, diabetes mellitus (DM), primary hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases were the predominant comorbidities in descending order. The commonest cause of AKI was severe sepsis, followed by systemic infections and post-surgery patients. Dialysis requirements at ICU admission during ICU stay and above 30 days were seen in 20.5, 47.5, and 6.5% of patients, respectively. Incidence of CA-AKI and HA-AKI was 1.24:1, whereas dialysis requirement above 30 days was 0.85:1, respectively. The 30-day mortality was 42%. Hepatic dysfunction [hazard ratio (HR): 3.471], septicemia (HR: 3.342), age above 60 years (HR: 4.000), higher sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (HR: 1.107; p = 0.001), anemia (p = 0.003), and low serum iron (p = 0.001) were important mortality predictors in AKI. Conclusion: Compared to the pre-COVID era, CA-AKI was more common than HA-AKI due to restricted elective surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Acute kidney injury with multiorgan involvement and hepatic dysfunction, elderly age with higher SOFA score and sepsis were predictors of adverse renal and patient outcomes. How to cite this article: Singh B, Dogra PM, Sood V, Singh V, Katyal A, Dhawan M, et al. Spectrum, Outcomes, and Mortality Predictors of Acute Kidney Injury among Non-COVID-19 Patients during COVID-19 Pandemic: Data from Four Intensive Care Units. Indian J Crit Care Med 2023;27(2):119-126.

Pharmacokinetics and biosafety evaluation of a veterinary drug florfenicol in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum 1792) as a model cultivable fish species in temperate water.

In two experimental trials; florfenicol pharmacokinetics following a single dose oral administration at 15 mg kg-1 fish body weight and biosafety through extended medicated feeding were studied in the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. The pharmacokinetic trial was conducted for 5 days, whereas the biosafety experiment lasted for a 30-day safety margin followed by a 20-day residual period analysis at 3, 5 and 10 times greater than the therapeutic dose 10 mg kg-1 biomass day-1. C max µg kg-1 calculated for florfenicol were found to be 5,360 in intestine, 2,890 in gill, 2,250 in kidney, 973 in liver and 273 in plasma, obtained at T max of 16 h. Intestine had utmost area under the concentration-time curve (tissue/plasma) of 13.83 h µg kg-1 and a prolonged half life (t1/2ß) of 28.62 h. The highest apparent metabolic rate value in the kidney (0.327) showed a high level of biotransformation of florfenicol to its metabolite florfenicol amine. The apparent distribution rate of florfenicol amine in muscle, in comparison to the parent drug florfenicol, indicated elimination of the medication mostly in the form of florfenicol amine with t1/2 of 16.75 h. The biosafety of florfenicol orally administered to rainbow trout recorded effective feed consumption, physiological responses, drug tolerance and significantly low drug concentrations in muscle of rainbow trout, thus its usage at 10 mg kg-1 fish body weight is recommended. In the study, the rapid absorption, greater bioavailability, enhanced dispersion, slower elimination and biosafety of the drug form a significant basis for the florfenicol and its metabolite florfenicol amine as a useful antibacterial agent in aquaculture.

Substantial Changes in Selected Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Associations with Health Risk Assessments in Industrial Areas during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments in many countries worldwide, including India, imposed several restriction measures, including lockdowns, to prevent the spread of the infection. COVID-19 lockdowns led to a reduction in gaseous and particulate pollutants in ambient air. In the present study, we investigated the substantial changes in selected volatile organic compounds (VOCs) after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic and associations with health risk assessments in industrial areas. VOC data from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2021 were collected from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) website, to identify percentage changes in VOC levels before, during, and after COVID-19. The mean TVOC levels at all monitoring stations were 47.22 ± 30.15, 37.19 ± 37.19, and 32.81 ± 32.81 µg/m3 for 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively. As a result, the TVOC levels gradually declined in consecutive years due to the pandemic in India. The mean TVOC levels at all monitoring stations declined from 9 to 61% during the pandemic period as compared with the pre-pandemic period. In the current study, the T/B ratio values ranged from 2.16 (PG) to 26.38 (NL), which indicated that the major pollutant contributors were traffic and non-traffic sources during the pre-pandemic period. The present findings indicated that TVOC levels had positive but low correlations with SR, BP, RF, and WD, with correlation coefficients (r) of 0.034, 0.118, 0.012, and 0.007, respectively, whereas negative correlations were observed with AT and WS, with correlation coefficients (r) of -0.168 and -0.150, respectively. The lifetime cancer risk (LCR) value for benzene was reported to be higher in children, followed by females and males, for the pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic periods. A nationwide scale-up of this study's findings might be useful in formulating future air pollution reduction policies associated with a reduction in health risk factors. Furthermore, the present study provides baseline data for future studies on the impacts of anthropogenic activities on the air quality of a region.