Sm/Ti co-substituted bismuth ferrite multiferroics: reciprocity between tetragonality and piezoelectricity.

BiFeO3 (BFO) systems co-modified with Ti, Sm and Sm-Ti have been investigated for piezoelectricity together with dielectric and multiferroic properties. Structural studies revealed the coexistence of orthorhombic and rhombohedral (R3c) phases for x > 0.12. Impurity phases were shown to have hardly any effect on the remanent magnetization, which rather depends on the Fe-O-Fe bond angle. The dielectric loss was reduced considerably by substitution. A correlation between the piezoelectric coefficient and tetragonality was observed in these samples. BFO co-substituted with Sm-Ti exhibited a high piezoelectric coefficient with better ferroic properties, which revealed a unique combination of green piezoelectricity and multiferroicity.

An optical remote sensing approach for ecological monitoring of red and green Noctiluca scintillans.

An ecosystem disruptive bloom of red Noctiluca scintillans (hereafter Noctiluca) was observed in coastal waters of the north-western Bay of Bengal during April 2014. Based on the principle of phytoplankton group/species specific remote sensing reflectance (Rrs), a technique of detecting green Noctiluca and diatom was developed earlier using Rrs at 443, 488, and 531 nm of Moderate Imaging Spectroradiometer-Aqua (MODIS). This was appropriately modified to detect bloom of red Noctiluca in coastal waters of the Bay of Bengal. Additional Rrs data at longer wavelengths viz. 667 and 678 nm were included in the existing algorithm, and the spectral shapes were accounted to detect the bloom of red Noctiluca. The classification scheme discriminates red Noctiluca from the green form of the same species and diatom. Phytoplankton group/species products were generated using the modified approach and validated with the reported events of red and green Noctiluca blooms in the Indian coastal waters. The present study also highlights two specific results based on MODIS retrieved time-series phytoplankton group/species image analysis: first, the observation of coexistence of diatom, red, and green Noctiluca in coastal waters of the north-western Bay of Bengal, and the second, phytoplankton community shift resulting in red/green Noctiluca proliferation following diatom.

MODIS-Aqua detects Noctiluca scintillans and hotspots in the central Arabian Sea.

Northern Arabian Sea is considered as an ecologically sensitive area as it experiences a massive upwelling and long-lasting algal bloom, Noctiluca scintillans (green tide) during summer and spring-winter, respectively. Diatom bloom is also found to be co-located with N. scintillans and both have an impact on ecology of the basin. In-house technique of detecting species of these blooms from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)-Aqua data was used to generate a time-series of images revealing their spatial distribution. A study of spatial-temporal variability of these blooms using satellite data expressed a cyclic pattern of their spread over a period of 13 years. An average distribution of the blooms for January-March period revealed a peak in 2015 and minimum in 2013. Subsequently, a time-series of phytoplankton species images were generated for these 2 years to study their inter-annual variability and the associated factors. Species images during active phase of the bloom (February) in 2015 indicated development of N. scintillans and diatom in the central Arabian Sea also, up to 12° N. This observation was substantiated with relevant oceanic parameters measured from the ship as well as satellite data and the same is highlight of the paper. While oxygen depletion and release of ammonia associated with N. scintillans are detrimental for waters on the western side; it is relatively less extreme and supports the entire food chain on the eastern side. In view of these contrasting eco-sensitive events, it is a matter of concern to identify biologically active persistent areas, hot spots, in order to study their ecology in detail. An ecological index, persistence of the bloom, was derived from the time-series of species images and it is another highlight of our study.

Remote sensing of bacterial response to degrading phytoplankton in the Arabian Sea.

A remote sensing technique has been developed to detect physiological condition of phytoplankton using in situ and moderate imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS)-Aqua data. The recurring massive mixed algal bloom of diatom and Noctiluca scintillans in the Northern Arabian Sea during winter-spring was used as test bed to study formation, growth and degradation of phytoplankton. The ratio of chlorophyll (chl) to particulate organic carbon (POC) was considered as an indicator of phytoplankton physiological condition and used for the approach development. Algal blooms represent the areas of new production, and therefore, knowledge of their degradation is important to the study microbial loop and export carbon flux. Relation of chl/POC ratio with bacterial abundance revealed Gaussian distribution. Bacteria were strongly correlated with POC, and hence, the latter which is available from satellite data could be used as a proxy for remote assessment of bacteria. Thresholds for active and degrading phytoplankton were determined using the ratio computed from the satellite data. The criteria were implemented on MODIS data to generate an image representing distribution of degrading algal bloom. Bacteria abundance data from two validation cruises during dinoflagellate and cyanobacteria bloom confirmed well match up of phytoplankton degradation information from the satellite. Comparison of environmental parameters during decay phase of dinoflagellate (N. scintillans bloom (winter) and Trichodesmium bloom (summer) revealed that degradation after active Trichodesmium bloom was more severe as compared to the N. scintillans. The present study also highlights the prediction capability of phytoplankton degradation using a time series of satellite retrieved chlorophyll/POC images.

Species identification of mixed algal bloom in the Northern Arabian Sea using remote sensing techniques.

Oceanic waters of the Northern Arabian Sea experience massive algal blooms during winter-spring (mid Feb-end Mar), which prevail for at least for 3 months covering the entire northern half of the basin from east to west. Ship cruises were conducted during winter-spring of 2001-2012 covering different stages of the bloom to study the biogeochemistry of the region. Phytoplankton analysis indicated the presence of green tides of dinoflagellate, Noctiluca scintillans (=N. miliaris), in the oceanic waters. Our observations indicated that diatoms are coupled and often co-exist with N. scintillans, making it a mixed-species ecosystem. In this paper, we describe an approach for detection of bloom-forming algae N. scintillans and its discrimination from diatoms using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)-Aqua data in a mixed-species environment. In situ remote sensing reflectance spectra were generated using Satlantic™ hyperspectral radiometer for the bloom and non-bloom waters. Spectral shapes of the reflectance spectra for different water types were distinct, and the same were used for species identification. Scatter of points representing different phytoplankton classes on a derivative plot revealed four diverse clusters, viz. N. scintillans, diatoms, non-bloom oceanic, and non-bloom coastal waters. The criteria developed for species discrimination were implemented on MODIS data and validated using inputs from a recent ship cruise conducted in March 2013.

Photocatalytic activity in graded off-valent cations substituted NaNbO3.

This study investigates the impact of off-valent doping on the photocatalytic properties of NaNbO3 concerning the degradation of Methylene Blue. Compositions with x values of 0.00 (representing pure NaNbO3, denoted as NBO) and 0.05 within the material system Na1-xAxNbO3 (where A is K1+, Ba2+, La3+, abbreviated as K-NBO, Ba-NBO, and La-NBO respectively) were synthesized using the conventional solid-state reaction method. The UV-visible analysis revealed a decrease in the band gap for samples K-NBO and Ba-NBO, while an increase was observed for sample La-NBO. Raman modes of lower wave numbers merged and shifted towards the higher wave number side. The determination of valence band edge and conduction band edge involved computational analysis based on XPS survey scans, and the band gap energy values were derived from UV-Visible spectroscopy results. Examining the band diagram of the samples (NBO, K-NBO, Ba-NBO, and La-NBO) in conjunction with the highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital levels of MB dye provided insights into potential degradation mechanisms. Photocatalytic dye degradation experiments for Methylene Blue demonstrated that doping increased the degradation efficiency of samples K-NBO, Ba-NBO, and La-NBO compared to NBO. Among all NaNbO3 based prepared samples, Ba-NBO exhibited the highest degradation efficiency of 96%, however slightly less than the reference sample P25 TiO2.

Assessment of Phubbing, Smart Phone Addiction and Related Psychological Variables among Dental Undergraduates: A Multicentric Study.

BACKGROUND: Internet Addiction and phubbing are prevalent disruptive behaviours among students. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between phubbing, smartphone addiction and some of the related psychological effects among dental undergraduates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multi-centric cross-sectional pre-validated questionnaire-based study was conducted among undergraduate students of five different dental colleges across India. The questionnaire included the Phubbing Scale, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), Smartphone Application-based Addiction Scale (SABAS), and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). The data were analysed with IBM SPSS version 21, followed by a t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Spearmen's co-relation to find the association between different psychological variables among study subjects. RESULTS: The total sample comprise of 1226 with mean age of 22.35. The SABAS showed a higher mean ± standard deviation (SD) score (3.17 ± 0.93). The Phubbing Scale showed a positive correlation with the SABAS (0.658), the results were found to be highly statistically significant (P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: The present study found a higher prevalence of phubbing and smartphone addiction among dental students. Our results showed that impulsiveness leads to internet addiction and thus phubbing is becoming a way to find solace during communication to escape anxiety and distress.

Factors associated with low birth weight among newborns in an urban slum community in Bhopal.

A community based cohort study on birth weight of newborns was conducted among pregnant women of an urban slum in Bhupal, India. The study was carried out to assess the magnitude of low birth weight (LBW) and factors contributing it in an urban slum community. Socio-demographic and maternal characteristics were examined applying statistical techniques to find out the variables associated with the LBW. An additional schedule was used to collect information from mothers about their socio-demographic background, dietary intake and the rest during the pregnancy. Weight of newborns of mothers registered in the study and delivering at the district hospital was recorded. Mean birth weight of newborns of 290 registered mothers was 2.57 ± 0.36 g. One hundred and five newborns (36.2%) had a birth weight lesser than 2500 g. Among different variables studied, statistically significant association was found in case of occupation, daily calorie intake and duration of day-time rest taken by pregnant women.

Rethinking the 'one-stop' neck lump clinic: a novel pathway beyond coronavirus disease 2019.

OBJECTIVES: UK guidelines advocate 'one-stop' neck lump assessment for cancer referrals. This paper reports the pilot of a novel pre-clinic ultrasound pathway, presents outcomes, and discusses strengths and limitations in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. METHODS: Two-week-wait cancer referral patients with a neck lump were allocated a pre-clinic ultrasound scan followed by a clinic appointment. Demographic, patient journey and outcome data were collected and analysed. RESULTS: Ninety-nine patients underwent ultrasound assessment with or without biopsy on average 8 days following referral. Patients were followed up on average 14.1 days (range, 2-26 days) after initial referral. At the first clinic appointment, 45 patients were discharged, 10 were scheduled for surgery, 12 were diagnosed with cancer, 6 were referred to another specialty and cancer was excluded in 19 patients. Retrospectively, four ultrasounds were performed unnecessarily. CONCLUSION: Pre-clinic ultrasound scanning is an alternative to the one-stop neck lump pathway. This study demonstrates fewer clinic visits, faster diagnosis and a low proportion of unnecessary scans, whilst minimising face-to-face consultations and aerosol-generating procedures.

Excitatory cholinergic responses in mouse primary bronchial smooth muscle require both Ca2+ entry via l-type Ca2+ channels and store operated Ca2+ entry via Orai channels.

Malfunctions in airway smooth muscle Ca2+-signalling leads to airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ca2+-release from intracellular stores is important in mediating agonist-induced contractions, but the role of influx via l-type Ca2+ channels is controversial. We re-examined roles of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store, refilling of this store via store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) and l-type Ca2+ channel pathways on carbachol (CCh, 0.1-10 µM)-induced contractions of mouse bronchial rings and intracellular Ca2+ signals of mouse bronchial myocytes. In tension experiments, the ryanodine receptor (RyR) blocker dantrolene (100 µM) reduced CCh-responses at all concentrations, with greater effects on sustained rather than initial components of contraction. 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB, 100 µM), in the presence of dantrolene, abolished CCh-responses, suggesting the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ store is essential for contraction. The SOCE blocker GSK-7975A (10 µM) reduced CCh-contractions, with greater effects at higher (e.g. 3 and 10 µM) CCh concentrations. Nifedipine (1 µM), abolished remaining contractions in GSK-7975A (10 µM). A similar pattern was observed on intracellular Ca2+-responses to 0.3 µM CCh, where GSK-7975A (10 µM) substantially reduced Ca2+ transients induced by CCh, and nifedipine (1 µM) abolished remaining responses. When nifedipine (1 µM) was applied alone it had less effect, reducing tension responses at all CCh concentrations by 25% - 50%, with greater effects at lower (e.g. 0.1 and 0.3 µM) CCh concentrations. When nifedipine (1 µM) was examined on the intracellular Ca2+-response to 0.3 µM CCh, it only modestly reduced Ca2+ signals, while GSK-7975A (10 µM) abolished remaining responses. In conclusion, Ca2+-influx from both SOCE and l-type Ca2+ channels contribute to excitatory cholinergic responses in mouse bronchi. The contribution of l-type Ca2+ channels was especially pronounced at lower doses of CCh, or when SOCE was blocked. This suggests l-type Ca2+ channels might be a potential target for bronchoconstriction under certain circumstances.

Academic clinician frontline-worker wellbeing and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic experience: Were there gender differences?

Prior research suggests COVID-19 has amplified stress on Academic Clinician Frontline-Workers (ACFW). The aim of this paper is: (1) to better understand the experiences of ACFW during the COVID-19 pandemic including their mental-emotional wellbeing, academic productivity, clinical experiences, and (2) to examine any gender differences. A cross-sectional survey was administered to University of Minnesota/M Health Fairview systems' faculty February-June 2021. Of the 291 respondents, 156 were clinicians, with 91 (58 %) identifying as Frontline-Workers (ACFW). Faculty wellbeing was assessed using validated measures in addition to measures of productivity and sociodemographics. For example, ACFW reported a higher Work-Family Conflict (WFC) scores compared to non-ACFW (26.5 vs. 24.1, p = 0.057) but did not report higher Family-Work Conflict (FWC) scores (17.7 vs. 16.3, p = 0.302). Gender sub-analyses, revealed that women ACFW compared to men ACFW reported higher WFC scores (27.7 vs. 24.1, p = 0.021) and FWC (19.3 vs. 14.3, p = 0.004). Academically, ACFW reported submitting fewer grants and anticipated delays in promotion and tenure due to the COVID-19 (p = 0.035). Results suggest COVID-19 has exacerbated ACFW stress and gender inequities. Reports of anticipated delay in promotion for ACFW may pose a challenge for the long-term academic success of ACFW, especially women ACFW. In addition, women may experience higher FWC and WFC as compared to men. Schools of academic medicine should consider re-evaluating promotion/tenure processes and creating resources to support women ACFW as well as ACFW caregivers.

Problem based review: the patient presenting with an acutely swollen arm.

A 69 year old female presented to the Emergency Department with swelling of her right arm and elbow, one week following a fall which resulted in a fracture of the middle third of her right clavicle (Figure 1). The forearm was hot and tender and the arm and hand function were somewhat impaired by swelling, but sensation was intact. Initial bloods were unremarkable, apart from a mild neutrophilia.

Dynamics of plasma proteome during leptin-replacement therapy in genetically based leptin deficiency.

The effects of leptin-replacement therapy on the plasma proteome of three unique adults with genetically based leptin deficiency were studied longitudinally during the course of recombinant human leptin-replacement treatment. Quantitative proteomics analysis was performed in plasma samples collected during four stages: before leptin treatment was initiated, after 1.5 and 6 years of leptin-replacement treatment, and after 7 weeks of temporary interruption of leptin-replacement therapy. Of 500 proteins reliably identified and quantitated in those four stages, about 100 were differentially abundant twofold or more in one or more stages. Synchronous dynamics of abundances of about 90 proteins was observed reflecting both short- and long-term effects of leptin-replacement therapy. Pathways and processes enriched with overabundant synchronous proteins were cell adhesion, cytoskeleton remodeling, cell cycle, blood coagulation, glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis. Plausible common regulators of the above synchronous proteins were identified using transcription regulation network analysis. The generated network included two transcription factors (c-Myc and androgen receptor) that are known to activate each other through a double-positive feedback loop, which may represent a potential molecular mechanism for the long-term effects of leptin-replacement therapy. Our findings may help to elucidate the effects of leptin on insulin resistance.

Oral mucositis in head and neck cancer.

This module explores the risk factors, pathogenesis and development of oral mucositis. It considers the early diagnosis and accurate management of oral mucositis in head and cancer patients undergoing treatment.

An ultrasonographic evaluation of solitary muscular and soft tissue cysticercosis.

BACKGROUND: Cysticercosis in humans is infection with the larval form (cysticercus cellulosae) of the pork tapeworm T. solium. Encystment of larvae can occur in almost any tissue. The location of cysts in order of frequency is the central nervous system, subcutaneous tissue and striated muscle, vitreous humour of the eye and, rarely, other tissues. High resolution ultrasound can be used in the diagnosis of muscular and soft tissue cysticercosis. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the ultrasonographic findings in cases of muscular and soft tissue cysticercosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was a retrospective review of the cases of muscular and soft tissue cysticercosis which were diagnosed by ultrasound during June 2007 to May 2009 in the department of Radiology and Imaging, Nepalgunj Medical College Teaching Hospital. A total of six patients were evaluated. RESULT: There were four males and two females. Age of the patient ranged from 18 to 50 years. All of the patients presented with a swelling with pain in fi ve of them. There was a wide variation in the location of the cysts. In all cases ultrasound revealed a cystic lesion with an echogenic eccentric pedunculated nodule attached to the wall. The mean diameter of the cyst was 6mm. Smooth wall was present in fi ve cases whereas one of the cysts revealed irregular wall. Pericystic inflammatory changes were seen in the adjacent muscles. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive method that can be used in the diagnosis of muscular and soft tissue cysticercosis.

Polymer/Graphene oxide nanocomposite thin film for NO2 sensor: An in situ investigation of electronic, morphological, structural, and spectroscopic properties.

The higher operating temperature of metal oxide and air instability of organic based NO2 sensor causes extremely urgent for development of a reliable low cost sensor to detect NO2 at room temperature. Therefore, we present a fabrication of large area Polymer/GO nano hybrid thin film for polymer thin film transistors (PTFTs) based NO2 sensors assisted via facile method named 'spreading-solidifying (SS) method', grown over air/liquid interface and successive investigation of effect of NO2 on film via several characterizations. The PTFTs sensor has demonstrated swift and high response towards low concentration of NO2 gas with air stability and provided real time non-invasive type NO2 sensor. Herein, we are reporting the nanohybrid PBTTT/GO composite based PTFT sensor with good repeatability and sensor response for low concentration NO2. The thin film grown via SS technique has reported very good adsorption/desorption of target analyte having response/recovery time of 75 s/523 s for 10 ppm concentration of NO2 gas. It has been observed that % change in drain current (sensor response) saturated with increasing concentration of NO2. The transient analysis demonstrates the fast sensor response and recovery time. Furthermore, in order to understand the insight of high performance of sensor, effect of NO2 on nanohybrid film and sensing mechanism, an in situ investigations was conducted via multiple technique viz. spectral, electronic, structural, and morphological characterization. Finally, the performance of sensor and the site of adsorption of NO2 at polymer chains were argued using schematic diagram. This work shows the simple fabrication process for mass production, low cost and room temperature operated gas sensors for monitoring the real-time environment conditions and gives an insight about the sensing mechanism adsorption site of NO2.

Enhanced oral bioavailability and hepatoprotective activity of thymoquinone in the form of phospholipidic nano-constructs.

Background: The poor biopharmaceutical properties of thymoquinone (TQ) obstruct its development as a hepatoprotective agent. To surmount the delivery challenges of TQ, phospholipid nanoconstructs (PNCs) were constructed.Method: PNCs were constructed employing microemulsification technique and systematic optimization by three-factor three level Box-Behnken design.Result: Optimized PNC composition exhibited nano size (<100 nm), spherical morphology, within acceptable range of polydispersity index (0.55), high drug entrapment efficiency (>90%), controlled drug release pattern, and neutral surface charge (zeta potential of -0.65 mV). After oral administration of a single dose of PNC, it showed a relative bioavailability of 386.03% vis-à-vis plain TQ suspension. Further, TQ-loaded PNC demonstrated significant enhanced hepato-protective effect vis-à-vis pure TQ suspension and silymarin, as evidenced by reduction in the ALP, ALT, AST, bilirubin, and albumin level and ratified by histopathological analysis.Conclusion: TQ-loaded PNCs can be efficient nano-platforms for the management of hepatic disorders and promising drug delivery systems to enhance oral bioavailability of this hydrophobic molecule.

Isolation and characterization of chromatin from Neurospora crassa.

Different preparations of chromatin isolated from mycelia of Neurospora crassa were analyzed for DNA-associated RNA and proteins. The UV absorption spectra, the ultrastructure of chromatin, and the amino acid composition of the acid-extractable proteins were studied. The protein:DNA ratios range from 1.5 to 2.8; the RNA:DNA ratios range from 0.5 to 1.24. UV absorption shows a macimum at 259 mmicro and a minimum at 238-239 mmicro. The E280/E260 ranges from 0.59 to 0.70. Electron microscopy reveals a fibrous structure with individual fibers of 120-150 A average diameter. Attempts were made to study the protein by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and amino acid analysis. The results indicate that Neurospora chromatin does not contain basic proteins comparable to calf thymus histone. The ratios of basic to acidic amino acids range from 0.93 to 1.19. On electrophoresis, no bands are seen whose positions correspond to those of histones. Staining for basic proteins with fast green or eosin Y at pH 8.2 also shows a negative reaction, suggesting the absence of histones.

Androgen regulated expression of the alpha 2u-globulin gene in pancreatic hepatocytes of rat.

Under a copper-deficient regimen, pancreatic cells in the adult rat can be found to undergo differentiation into hepatocytes. Pancreatic hepatocytes induced in male and female rats were examined for the expression of the androgen-inducible hepatic protein, alpha 2u-globulin. Alpha 2u-Globulin protein was demonstrable by immunoperoxidase method in all the pancreatic hepatocytes of male rats. Northern blot analysis confirmed the presence of 1.3 kb alpha 2u-globulin mRNA transcript in the pancreas of male rats with hepatocytes. Orchiectomy resulted in marked decrease of alpha 2u-globulin protein and its mRNA. Administration of dihydrotestosterone to castrated rats resulted in increased levels of alpha 2u-globulin mRNA and the amount of alpha 2u-globulin protein in the pancreatic hepatocytes. Unlike normal males, in intact and ovariectomized females alpha 2u-globulin was not detectable in pancreatic hepatocytes. These results indicate that similar to hepatic parenchymal cells pancreatic hepatocytes synthesize alpha 2u-globulin under androgenic regulation. Furthermore, unlike in liver where it is expressed predominantly in perivenular and midlobular hepatocytes, there is no localized difference in the expression of this gene in the transdifferentiated pancreatic hepatocytes.

Future perspectives for health related quality of life (HRQOL) studies in head and neck cancer.

The impact of a head and neck cancer (HNC) diagnosis on a person and the consequences of its treatment across multiple functional domains can profoundly alter quality of life (QOL). By pursuing patient-centered management and considering the entire gamut of physical, psychological and social problems, QOL studies contribute more than just routine mortality and morbidity data. Assessments can now be made using a variety of both specific and generic measures to optimise patient care and to aid the development of informed rehabilitation services. Unfortunately, there exists no 'gold-standard' questionnaire in the literature and the choice is largely based on clinician preference, research objectives and psychometric properties. Future efforts must be made to effectively use modern technological and computational advances to set up item banks and newer theoretical models. Longitudinal studies with pre-determined priori should be encouraged as should the utilisation of minimalist approaches and incisive item response theory. Most importantly, in order to link research to clinical practice, health related QOL (HRQOL) studies should be devised and utilised in a way as to provide clinically meaningful data to the treating physician useful for patient' care.