Large Group Research Articles

Decreased survival in patients with pancreatic cancer may be associated with an increase in histopathological expression of inflammasome marker NLRP3.

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant neoplasm that, despite its low frequency, has a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. The study of different histopathological markers has allowed a better understanding of the onset and development of this type of tumor as well as facilitating an approach to clinical variables based on their diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive value. In this sense, the NLRP3 protein of the inflammasome has been shown to be a component of great relevance in the initiation and progression of pancreatic cancer, although the value of this biomarker in patients has not yet been clarified. In this study, we selected 41 patients with pancreatic cancer and followed them for 60 months (5 years), evaluating their NLRP3 expression using immunohistochemical techniques. Furthermore, by performing Kaplan-Meier curves, we evaluated the survival of these patients in relation to their NLRP3 expression. Our results show that a significant percentage of our cohort had high expression of this component (90.74%) and that there is an inverse relationship between the expression of NLRP3 and patient survival. High levels of NLRP3 expression are related to lower survival and worse prognosis in these patients, possibly due to an ineffective immune system response and increased tumor-promoted inflammation. Future studies should be aimed at confirming these results in larger groups and evaluating various clinical strategies based on this knowledge.

Molecules structure and viscosity relationship of nematic liquid crystal and BPNN-QSAR model

Nematic liquid crystal materials designed for optics, microwave communication tuning, etc. need high response speed, which is related to the rotational viscosity and the birefringent index of the liquid crystal. In order to achieve a wide tuning range of phase modulation, the nematic liquid crystals often employ large π-electron conjugated systems and large polar groups to enhance the birefringence and dielectric anisotropy of the liquid crystal molecule, which, however, increases the viscosity of the liquid crystal material, deteriorating the response speed of the microwave device. Herein, we explore the viscosity of the nematic liquid crystal from the perspective of liquid crystal compound structure by testing the viscosity of our designed and synthesized forty-two different nematic liquid crystals by using a rotating rheometer at 25 ℃. To the best of our knowledge, the BPNN-QSAR quantitative structure-activity model between nematic liquid crystal molecular structure and viscosity is established for the first time. The correlation coefficient between the predicted value and the experimental value is <i>q</i><sup>2</sup> = 0.607 > 0.5, indicating that the model can be used to predict the viscosity performances of liquid crystal compounds. Besides, the molecular structure descriptors affecting the viscosity properties are explored. Based on the practical application and this model, seven liquid crystal molecules of two series with large birefringent index are designed and tested. The viscosity predicted by the BPNN model is smaller than that of the molecules of the same type and matches with the measured viscosity.

Atomic and electronic structure of monolayer ferroelectric GeS on Cu(111)

Two-dimensional (2D) ferroelectric materials are important materials for both fundamental properties and potential applications. Especially, group Ⅳ monochalcogenide possesses highest thermoelectric performance and intrinsic ferroelectric polarization properties and can sever as a model to explore ferroelectric polarization properties. However, due to the relatively large exfoliation energy, the creation of high-quality and large-size monolayer group Ⅳ monochalcogenide is not so easy, which seriously hinders the integration of these materials into the fast-developing field of 2D materials and their heterostructures. Herein, monolayer GeS is successfully fabricated on Cu(111) substrate by molecular beam epitaxy method, and the lattice structure and the electronic band structure of monolayer GeS are systematically characterized by high-resolution scanning tunneling microscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, <i>in-situ</i> X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectra, and angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. All atomically resolved STM images reveal that the obtained monolayer GeS has an orthogonal lattice structure, which consists with theoretical prediction. Meanwhile, the distinct moiré pattern formed between monolayer GeS and Cu(111) substrate also confirms the orthogonal lattice structure. In order to examine the chemical composition and valence state of as-prepared monolayer GeS, <i>in-situ</i> XPS is utilized without being exposed to air. The measured spectra of XPS core levels suggest that the valence states of Ge and S elements are identified to be +2 and –2, respectively and the atomic ratio of Ge/S is 1∶1.5, which is extremely close to the stoichiometric ratio of 1∶1 for GeS. To further corroborate the quality and lattice structure of the monolayer GeS film, <i>ex-situ</i> Raman measurements are also performed for monolayer GeS on highly oriented pyrolytic graphene (HOPG) and multilayer graphene substrate. Three well-defined typical characteristic Raman peaks of GeS are observed. Finally, <i>in-situ</i> ARPES measurement are conducted to determine the electronic band structure of monolayer GeS on Cu(111). The results demonstrate that the monolayer GeS has a nearly flat band electronic band structure, consistent with our density functional theory calculation. The realization and investigation of the monolayer GeS extend the scope of 2D ferroelectric materials and make it possible to prepare high quality and large size monolayer group Ⅳ monochalcogenides, which is beneficial to the application of this main group material to the rapidly developing 2D ferroelectric materials and heterojunction research.

Targeted Analysis of Glycerophospholipids and Mono-, Di-, or Tri-Acylglycerides in Liver Cancer.

The metabolic rearrangements of hepatic metabolism associated with liver cancer are still incompletely understood. There is an ongoing need to identify novel and more efficient diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on the metabolic mechanisms of these diseases. In comparison to traditional diagnostic biomarkers, metabolomics is a comprehensive technique for discovering chemical signatures for liver cancer screening, prediction, and earlier diagnosis. Lipids are a large and diverse group of complex biomolecules that are at the heart of liver physiology and play an important role in the development and progression of cancer. In this chapter, we described two detailed protocols for targeted lipids analysis: glycerophospholipids and mono, di, tri-acylglycerides, both by Flow Injection Analysis (FIA) HPLC coupled to a SelexIon/QTRAP 6500+ system. These approaches provide a targeted lipidomic metabolomic signature of dissimilar metabolic disorders affecting liver cancers.

Trust evolution based minimum adjustment consensus framework with dynamic limited compromise behavior for probabilistic linguistic large scale group decision-making

Trust evolution based minimum adjustment consensus framework with dynamic limited compromise behavior for probabilistic linguistic large scale group decision-making

Impact of introduction of innovative ideas on hospital staff regarding adherence to NABH standards

Background: The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health-Care Providers (NABH) standards focus on quality, patient safety, and infection control and ultimately benefit patients and staff. Adherence to these standards requires the cooperation and teamwork of hospital staff. But adherence is a challenge, with poor knowledge and acceptance of these guidelines leading to improper implementation, even faced in our hospital. Aims and Objectives: To analyze the impact of the introduction of innovative ideas regarding the teaching of NABH standards among hospital staff on adherence and acceptance of these standards. Materials and Methods: Feedback from hospital staff regarding NABH standards was taken in May 2023 and October 2023 (before and after the introduction of innovative ideas, respectively). Feedback was taken in the form of a written questionnaire and was voluntary. The innovative ideas introduced were small and large group daily trainings, special trainings, inter-department competitions and awards, and brainstorming meetings regarding NABH standards. The results of the two feedbacks were analyzed using statistical tools. Results: 398 and 439 staff participated in May 2023 and October 2023 feedback, respectively. There was significant improvement in all parameters of the questionnaire after the introduction of innovative ideas, especially patient safety, medication management, and patient record maintenance. There was a better understanding of patient and employee rights and responsibilities and the importance of these standards. There was an improvement in job satisfaction among hospital staff. Conclusion: The introduction of innovative ideas leads to better understanding, acceptance, and adherence to NABH standards and greater job satisfaction among doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff of the hospital.

Spectrum of Nodal and Extra Nodal Lymphoma in a Regional Cancer Centre, Odisha, India

Lymphoma encompasses a large group of cancers, ranking 7th among the common malignancies. Commonly, lymphoma originates in the lymph nodes. Infiltration of malignant lymphomatous cells in organs other than the lymph node is termed as Extra Nodal Lymphoma. In this retrospective study of 253 cases of Lymphoma, the spectrum of histopathological features of Extra Nodal Lymphoma is illustrated to ascertain the histological and anatomical distribution of ENL & NL. ENL constituted about 16% of all lymphomas studied during this period. Gastro-intestinal tract is the most common anatomical site in ENL. The peak incidence is found among middle aged population. Cervical Lymph Node is the most prevalent node involved in case of Nodal Lymphoma. This study was carried out at the Acharya Harihar Regional Cancer Centre (AHRCC), Cuttack, Odisha, India. This activity outlined the epidemiological and morphological evaluation of ENL & NL. future research will look to focus and highlight the survival analysis and genetic profile to understand the complex biology of primary Extranodal Lymphoma.

Profiling research on PFAS in wildlife: Systematic evidence map and bibliometric analysis

Abstract Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals that have been in use for over 70 years. Their ubiquitous distribution and harmful effects pose a threat to wildlife worldwide. To provide a comprehensive synopsis and show the gaps and gluts of existing research on PFAS exposure in wildlife, we created a systematic map and bibliographic analysis of the literature. We followed our protocol to conduct a systematic literature search on Scopus, Web of Science and five other databases. In two steps (title/abstract/keywords and full‐text), we screened peer‐reviewed empirical articles, preprints and theses in English that studied the concentration of at least one of 34 PFAS compounds in free‐ranging wildlife or their parts/products. Following the protocol, we extracted data and performed a critical appraisal. We included 581 publications. From the first and only paper in 2001, there was a linear annual increase to 54 papers in 2021. While PFOS (97% of studies), PFOA (91%) and long‐chain PFAS in general were the most measured, few studies investigated new‐generation PFAS (e.g. GenX and ADONA). Across the studied 1042 species from 26 taxonomic classes, the most frequent were the common carp (Cyprinus carpio, 8%), polar bear (Ursus maritimus, 6%) and European perch (Perca fluviatilis, 5%). Most sampling took place in the United States (17%), Norway (13%), Canada (12%) and China (10%), which were also the main publishing countries. Polar regions attracted significant research interest from countries all around the globe. Aquatic habitats (marine: 31%, freshwater: 28%) of temperate zones were the most common locations for sample collection. We encourage researchers to work towards closing the following gaps: investigating new‐generation PFAS, assessing PFAS in mid‐ and low‐income countries and performing more long‐term studies, especially on invertebrates. We note the recent rise in studies on the physiological consequences of PFAS exposure and encourage further work on this crucial topic. Furthermore, we recommend that the statement of potential and actual conflicts of interest, and the provision of raw data and analysis code should be made compulsory by all journals and routinely enforced. This practice will mitigate conflict of interest and ensure reproducibility.

Genetic Variability of Traffic Tolerance and Surface Playability of Bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) under Fall Simulated Traffic Stress

Bermudagrasses (Cynodon spp.) are the most preferred turfgrass species for athletic fields in the southern and transition zones of the United States. Developing and using bermudagrasses with superior traffic tolerance and surface playability under trafficked conditions benefits turfgrass managers, athletes, and sport organizations. A 2-year field study was conducted in Stillwater, OK, to quantify the genetic variability of traffic tolerance and surface playability from a population composed of two commercially available and 87 experimental interspecific hybrid bermudagrasses under fall simulated traffic stress. The experiment design was a randomized complete block design with three replications. Plots were subjected to 60 simulated cleat traffic events for 6 weeks in the fall of 2019 and 2020 using a Baldree traffic simulator. Bermudagrasses were evaluated for turfgrass quality (TQ), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), fall percent green cover (FPGC), shear strength (SS), and surface hardness (SH) after 3 and 6 weeks of traffic. Spring green-up percent green cover (SGPGC) was evaluated in the spring of 2020 and 2021. Except for SH, significant entry effects were found for all parameters and reliability estimates were moderate to high (i2 = 0.49 to 0.68) under simulated trafficked conditions. Experimental entries 17-4200-19X13, 17-4200-19X9, 17-4200-36X19, 17-5200-4X11, 18-7-2, 18-7-6, 18-8-2, 18-8-3, 18-8-7, 18-9-2, OSU1101, and OSU1664, and TifTuf® had excellent traffic tolerance. Entries 18-8-7, OSU1101, OSU1675, TifTuf®, and Tahoma 31® demonstrated high SS. There was a large group of entries that had consistent early spring green-up across both years, including Tilin#5, 18-9-8, OKC1221, OSU1257, OSU1318, OSU1337, OSU1406, OSU1439, OSU1651, OSU1675, Tahoma 31®, and TifTuf®. OSU1101 was the entry ranking in the top statistical grouping most often throughout the study. Findings illustrated the possibility of improving traffic tolerance and SS through breeding and using phenotypic selection could reliably select bermudagrass genotypes with improved traffic tolerance and SS in the transition zone.

The Development of e-LKPD with a Culture-Based Integrated Learning Model (MPTBB) to Improve Student Learning Outcomes on Buffer Solution Material

The aim of this research is to determine the feasibility, responses, and student learning outcomes of e-LKPD (Lembar Kerja Peserta Didik, i.e., Student Worksheets), by using the Culture-Based Integrated Learning Model (MPTBB) on buffer solution material. The research method uses the ADDIE development model which consists of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The research subjects were determined using purposive sampling with a total of 12 students in Class XI Natural Science 5 (Class XI IPA 5) for small group trials, and 31 students in Class XI IPA 6 for large group trials. The results showed that the developed electronic LKPD was included in the very feasible category with a score of 4.92 on the media aspect and 4.69 on the material aspect. Student responses to the developed LKPD were in the “very good” category with the content quality aspect obtained a score of 4.73; display aspect with a score of 4.70; the usefulness aspect gets a score of 4.70; and on the user aspect a score of 4.75. After using the e-LKPD with a MPTBB in the learning process of buffer solution material, it was found that there was an increase in student learning outcomes with an N-gain score of 0.54 in the medium category. So that this electronic LKPD can be used for learning media on buffer solution material. This e-LKPD is very interesting because it integrates an integrated learning model based on local culture in chemistry learning.

Getting around the roundworms: Identifying knowledge gaps and research priorities for the ascarids.

The ascarids are a large group of parasitic nematodes that infect a wide range of animal species. In humans, they cause neglected diseases of poverty; many animal parasites also cause zoonotic infections in people. Control measures include hygiene and anthelmintic treatments, but they are not always appropriate or effective and this creates a continuing need to search for better ways to reduce the human, welfare and economic costs of these infections. To this end, Le Studium Institute of Advanced Studies organized a two-day conference to identify major gaps in our understanding of ascarid parasites with a view to setting research priorities that would allow for improved control. The participants identified several key areas for future focus, comprising of advances in genomic analysis and the use of model organisms, especially Caenorhabditis elegans, a more thorough appreciation of the complexity of host-parasite (and parasite-parasite) communications, a search for novel anthelmintic drugs and the development of effective vaccines. The participants agreed to try and maintain informal links in the future that could form the basis for collaborative projects, and to co-operate to organize future meetings and workshops to promote ascarid research.

Novel radiology PRIMER course enhances medical student perception of radiology and key concept comprehension

Rationale and objectivesA novel three-day radiology course, PRIMER, directly preceding medical students’ clinical year, was created and assessed. The required course consisted of large group lecture sessions, small group breakout sessions, and individual assignments. Though early exposure to radiology has been described in preclinical anatomy curricula, few schools offer immersive experiences to radiology as a direct predecessor to the wards. Materials and methodsAn identical survey was distributed prior to and at the completion of the PRIMER course. Students’ perceptions of radiology were assessed through Likert-style questions. Students’ knowledge of radiological concepts was assessed through multiple choice questions (MCQs) related to key concepts, MCQs in which students selected the most likely diagnosis, and hotspot questions in which learners had to select the area of greatest clinical importance. Mean pre- and post-course student perception scores were compared using a T-test. For knowledge-based questions, each student received an exam score, and mean pre- and post-exam scores were compared using a T-test. ResultsStudents’ opinions of radiology changed significantly in a favorable direction across all tested questions between inception and conclusion of PRIMER (p < 0.01). Students demonstrated superior knowledge of radiological concepts after course completion (posttest mean 52% vs pretest mean 26.3%, p < 0.01). ConclusionThe novel radiology PRIMER course promoted a positive impression of radiology and increased medical students’ knowledge of key concepts. These results suggest that a condensed introductory radiology curriculum delivered at a key moment in the overarching curriculum can have a significant impact on medical students’ perceptions and knowledge.

Alteraciones de la motilidad esofágica

Esophageal motility disorders (EMD) manifest clinically with the presence of dysphagia and/or chest pain related to swallowing. In order to diagnose it, it is necessary to first rule out organic causes that would explain these symptoms. In recent decades, the development of high-resolution manometry and its use in routine clinical practice has allowed for better characterization of esophageal motility disorders. The diagnostic criteria have been updated in recent years in the Chicago Classification v4.0, which establishes two large groups of motor disorders: those with esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) and those with abnormal esophageal body contractility. The treatment of EMDs with EGJOO (the various presentations of achalasia and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction) is aimed at reducing the baseline pressure in this area. Various techniques are available for this, such as pneumatic balloon dilatation, endoscopic (POEM) and surgical myotomy (Heller myotomy), and, less frequently, the use of oral drugs and botulinum toxin injection. In the case of esophageal peristalsis disorders, the goal of treatment is to control symptoms. To do so, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used in patients with associated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and, in the case of disorders associated with hypercontractility, other drugs such as nitrates or calcium channel blockers and, occasionally, low-dose tricyclic antidepressants may be used.

Pengembangan Media Powerpoint Interaktif pada Pembelajaran IPAS Materi Ekosistem Kelas V SDI Mu’tashim Billah Pontianak Selatan

This research aims to determine the process of developing interactive Powerpoint media in learning science and science material on ecosystems for class V SDI Mu’tashim Billah South Pontianak. The research method used is research and development (RnD) using the ADDIE model. The data sources for this research were a class V teacher, 17 student and two expert validators, namely media experts and material experts. Data collection techniques in this research were interviews and questionnaires. The research results show that the development of interactive Powerpoint media goes through three research steps, namely analysis, design and development. At the analysis stage the research carrid out interviews and distributed needs questionnaires. The research results show that the development of interactive Powerpoint media goes through three research steps, namely analysis, design and development. At the analysis stage the research carried out interviews and distributed needs questionnaires. The steps taken at the design stage are determining learning outcomes and designing Powerpoint media. Based on the result of the data obtained at the development stage, the feasibility of interactive Powerpoint products reseived “very valid” criteria from expert validators, namely the media aspect received an average value of 37,5. The material aspect received an average value of 3,5 and from the results of students’ responses to the use of interactive Powerpoint, they obtained “very good” criteria, namely the response to small group trials obtained an average score of 37,6 and large group trials obtained a score of 38,1.

Web-based Survey on the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of COVID-19 Appropriate Behaviour among Vaccinated and Unvaccinated College Students in Puducherry, India: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Coronaviruses (CoVs) encompass a large group of viruses known to infect the upper respiratory tract in humans. The devastating impact of the virus has led to widespread infections among millions of individuals. Widespread disregard for ‘Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Appropriate Behaviour’ (CAB) by the public has significantly strained the Indian healthcare system. Despite efforts to educate the public on CAB through social media since 2020, only a minority have incorporated these practices into their daily lives. Notably, some vaccinated individuals have been hesitant to adhere to CAB despite repeated awareness efforts. This study aims to understand adherence to CAB among vaccinated and unvaccinated students not associated with the healthcare system. Aim: To evaluate the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of CAB among vaccinated and unvaccinated college students. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Sri Venkateshwaraa Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Puducherry, India among various engineering and arts college students of Puducherry, India from December 2021 to February 2022. A web-based data collection tool was designed using Google Forms. Data was collected through invitation letters and questionnaires distributed via WhatsApp groups and Instagram. The study included a total of 360 responses, with the questionnaire comprising 40 questions related to KAP, consisting of 17, 7, and 16 questions, respectively. The results were expressed in percentages. Results: Among the vaccinated participants, 263 (89.7%) identified social media as the primary source of COVID-19 related information. Knowledge and attitude towards COVID19 vaccination revealed that over 50% were aware of the safety and efficacy of vaccines and the necessity of receiving two doses as advised by the government. While knowledge and attitude were similar across vaccinated and unvaccinated college students, there was a slightly higher percentage among the vaccinated group. However, there was an increased percentage of practice among unvaccinated students, indicating greater awareness of infection prevention. Conclusion: The study found that the knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of college students, particularly those not in medical fields, were satisfactory, likely due to the widespread availability of information on social media. These findings can be valuable for public health departments to adopt a peoplecentered approach to raise awareness among the public and reduce vaccine hesitancy.

Biosynthesis of fungal terpenoids.

Covering: up to August 2023Terpenoids, which are widely distributed in animals, plants, and microorganisms, are a large group of natural products with diverse structures and various biological activities. They have made great contributions to human health as therapeutic agents, such as the anti-cancer drug paclitaxel and anti-malarial agent artemisinin. Accordingly, the biosynthesis of this important class of natural products has been extensively studied, which generally involves two major steps: hydrocarbon skeleton construction by terpenoid cyclases and skeleton modification by tailoring enzymes. Additionally, fungi (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) serve as an important source for the discovery of terpenoids. With the rapid development of sequencing technology and bioinformatics approaches, genome mining has emerged as one of the most effective strategies to discover novel terpenoids from fungi. To date, numerous terpenoid cyclases, including typical class I and class II terpenoid cyclases as well as emerging UbiA-type terpenoid cyclases, have been identified, together with a variety of tailoring enzymes, including cytochrome P450 enzymes, flavin-dependent monooxygenases, and acyltransferases. In this review, our aim is to comprehensively present all fungal terpenoid cyclases identified up to August 2023, with a focus on newly discovered terpenoid cyclases, especially the emerging UbiA-type terpenoid cyclases, and their related tailoring enzymes from 2015 to August 2023.

Managing manipulation behavior in hydrogen refueling station planning by a large group decision making method with hesitant fuzzy linguistic information

Managing manipulation behavior in hydrogen refueling station planning by a large group decision making method with hesitant fuzzy linguistic information

Polychlorinated alkanes in paired blood serum and breast milk in a Swedish cohort study: Matrix dependent partitioning differences compared to legacy POPs

BackgroundPolychlorinated alkanes (PCAs) constitute a large group of individual congeners originating from commercial chlorinated paraffin (CP) products with carbon chain lengths of PCAs-C10-13, PCAs-C14-17, and PCAs-C18-32, occasionally containing PCAs-C6-9 impurities. The extensive use of CPs has led to global environmental pollution of PCAs. This study aimed to quantify PCAs in paired serum and breast milk of lactating Swedish mothers, exploring their concentration relationship. MethodsTwenty-five paired samples of mothers’ blood serum and breast milk were analysed and concentrations were determined for PCAs C6-32 and compared to 4,4′-DDE, the PCB congener 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-hexachlorobiphenyl (CB-153), and hexachlorobenzene (HCB). ResultsThe median concentrations of PCAs-C6-9, PCAs-C10-13, PCAs-C14-17, PCAs-C18-32 and ΣPCAs in serum were 14, 790, 520, 16 and 1350 ng/g lipid weight (lw), respectively, and in breast milk 0.84, 36, 63, 6.0 and 107 ng/g lw. Levels of 4,4′-DDE, CB-153 and HCB were comparable in the two matrices, serum and breast milk at 17, 12 and 4.9 ng/g lw. The results show significant differences of PCAs-C10-13 and PCAs-C14-17 in breast milk with 22– and 6.2-times lower lw-based concentrations than those measured in serum. On wet weight the differences serum/breast milk ratios of PCAs-C6-9, PCAs-C10-13, PCAs-C14-17, PCAs-C18-32 and ΣPCAs were 1.7, 3.2, 1.0, 0.4 and 1.6, respectively, while the ratio for 4,4′-DDE, CB-153 and HCB were each close to 0.1. ConclusionSwedish lactating mothers had high serum concentrations of PCAs-C10-13 and PCAs-C14-17, with the ΣPCAs median serum concentration of 1350 ng/g lw. The breast milk concentration, although considerably lower at 107 ng/g lw, still surpassed those of 4,4′-DDE, CB-153 and HCB, suggesting an exposure risk of infants to PCAs. The variation in blood and breast milk accumulation between PCAs and studied legacy POPs, is rarely discussed but warrants further studies on partitioning properties as well as associated toxicological implications.

A cross-sectional study on the etiological spectrum and morbidity profile among geriatric patients: A hospital-based study

Background: Elderly people are now the most rapidly growing population group worldwide, and the challenge ahead for the health-care system is to ensure the quality of life and provide adequate health care for a large group the of geriatric population. Aims and Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine the most common causes of emergency hospital admission of geriatric patients and to evaluate their morbidity profile. Materials and Methods: This present study was carried out on 208 geriatric patients (age &gt;60 years) in a medical college and teaching hospital, in eastern India between May 2019 and October 2020 after taking institutional ethical clearance and informed consent of the participants. Results: Nearly 38.9% of the participants belonged to the age group of 60–70 years. 73.7% of the participants presented with respiratory diseases (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory failure), 21.0% had pulmonary tuberculosis, and 5.3% had cancer lung. Nearly 88.46% had endocrinal morbidity, followed by cardiovascular morbidity (74.03%) and respiratory morbidity (62.50%). 81.25% of the participants had diabetes, and 60.58% suffered from musculoskeletal disorder. 36.53% had osteoarthritis and 22.59% had rheumatoid arthritis. Conclusion: The present study result showed the most common presentation in hospital admissions during the emergency in the elderly were cardiovascular, respiratory diseases, neurological causes, and gastrointestinal disorders. The majority of cases had three or more complications necessitating admission contributing to a higher disease burden in the elderly.

Phytoremediation: An Approach for Petrochemical Contaminated Soil of Assam

The presence of a component, impurity, or other unfavourable element that taints, corrupts, infects, renders unfit, or degrades a material, or natural environment is referred to as environmental contamination. Due to the potential negative effects caused by the chemical discharges, environmental issues have now become crucial factors to consider. Petrochemical wastes are one of the most serious environmental contaminants which comprise a large group of chemicals derived from petroleum and natural gases. The petrochemical pollutants, belonging to the groups such as greenhouse gases, volatile organic compounds, Particulate Matter (PM) with heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic compounds, act as potential soil contaminants, causing disturbance and harm to the soil ecosystem. Phytoremediation is an emerging and eco-friendly way to mitigate petrochemical contamination of soil. It is an in situ technique to purify contaminated soil or water using plants (trees, shrubs, grasses and aquatic plants) and their associated microorganisms. This technique is favourable for tropical countries like India where there is immense growth of plants. Though plants like Mirabilis jalapa, Italian ryegrass, sorghum, maize, and alfalfa are used worldwide, in Assam also various plant species are used for remediation purposes in petrochemical-contaminated soil. Crotalaria pallida, Cyperus brevifolius, Cynodondactylon. Mimosa pudica etc. are some of the plant species that have been reported to possess the ability to degrade toxic chemicals into non-toxic or less-toxic products with the aid of microbial colonies in the soil. This review is an effort to through some light on the plants of Assam as well as worldwide along with their family in the remediation of petroleum-contaminated soil. Thus, it will be helpful to select appropriate plants for the purpose of phytoremediation.