AIM: To study clinical and histopathological features of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) in patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) using updated nonalcoholic steatohepatitis clinical research...AIM: To study clinical and histopathological features of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) in patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) using updated nonalcoholic steatohepatitis clinical research network(NASH-CRN) grading system.METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data of 235 patients with biopsy proven NAFLD with and without T2 DM.This database was utilized in the previously published study comparing ethnicity outcomes in NAFLD by the same corresponding author.The pathology database from University of Chicago was utilized for enrolling consecutive patients who met the criteria for NAFLD and their detailed clinical and histopathology findings were obtained for comparison.The relevant clinical profile of patients was collected from the Electronic Medical Records around the time of liver biopsy and the histology was read by a single well-trained histopathologist.The updated criteria for type 2 diabetes have been utilized for analysis.Background data of patients with NASH and NAFLD has been included.The mean differences were compared using χ2 and t-test along with regression analysis to evaluate the predictors of NASH and advanced fibrosis.RESULTS: Patients with NAFLD and T2 DM were significantly older(49.9 vs 43.0,P < 0.01),predominantly female(71.4 vs 56.3,P < 0.02),had higher rate of metabolic syndrome(88.7 vs 36.4,P < 0.01),had significantly higher aspartate transaminase(AST)/alanine transaminase(ALT) ratio(0.94 vs 0.78,P < 0.01) and Fib-4 index(1.65 vs 1.06,P < 0.01) as markers of NASH,showed higher mean NAFLD activity score(3.5 vs 3.0,P = 0.03) and higher mean fibrosis score(1.2 vs 0.52,P < 0.01) compared to patients with NAFLD without T2 DM.Furthermore,advanced fibrosis(32.5 vs 12.0,P < 0.01) and ballooning(27.3 vs 13.3,P < 0.01) was significantly higher among patients with NAFLD and T2 DM compared to patients with NAFLD without T2 DM.On multivariate analysis,T2 DM was independently associated with NASH(OR = 3.27,95%CI: 1.43-7.50,P < 0.01) and advanced fibrosis(OR = 3.45,95%CI: 1.53-7.展开更多
Introduction: Coccydynia, television disease, and coccygodynia are the different names given to this disabling disease, which can become chronic. It was described by Simson in 1859. Coccydynia means pain at the end of...Introduction: Coccydynia, television disease, and coccygodynia are the different names given to this disabling disease, which can become chronic. It was described by Simson in 1859. Coccydynia means pain at the end of the vertebral column. Non-traumatic coccydynia is a diagnosis, which is never straightforward like traumatic coccydynia because the onset is unclear, and both the patient and the unaware clinician face many challenges in treating it on time and with accuracy. Coccyx was likened to a cuckoo bird’s beak as a curved bone of fused 3 to 5 vertebrae with remnant disc material in some rare cases, unfused segments, linear scoliosis or subluxations and deformities. Stress X-rays of the coccyx in the antero-posterior and lateral views in standing and sitting reveal the “Dynamic Instability” due to congenital coccygeal morphological, pathological and mechanical variations. Material and Methods: This is a complex study having retrograde data collected from online publications from various databases, like PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library and also antegrade data collected from 100 patients with their consent from patients in Adam and Eve Specialised Medical Centre-based at Abu Dhabi, UAE and data was processed in the research centre of Krushi Orthopaedic Welfare Society based in India between 2014-2024 following all guidelines of Helsinki and approved by the ethics board of Krushi Orthopaedic Welfare Society. Clinical Presentation: The coccyx is painful, with aches, spasms, and an inability to sit. This affects daily activities without any particular date of onset. The onset remains insidious for the non-traumatic variety of coccydynia. Aetiology and Patho Anatomy: Non-traumatic coccydynia can be caused by a myriad of reasons, like congenital morphological variations, acquired dynamic instabilities, and hidden trauma remaining quiescent to re-surface as a strain-induced pain. Radiological Presentations: Unless clarity is focused on these coccygeal views, the errors of the unevacuated rectum, non-dynamic展开更多
We explore the entanglement features of pure symmetric N-qubit states characterized by N-distinct spinors with a particular focus on the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GHZ) states and , an equal superposition of W and o...We explore the entanglement features of pure symmetric N-qubit states characterized by N-distinct spinors with a particular focus on the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GHZ) states and , an equal superposition of W and obverse W states. Along with a comparison of pairwise entanglement and monogamy properties, we explore the geometric information contained in them by constructing their canonical steering ellipsoids. We obtain the volume monogamy relations satisfied by states as a function of number of qubits and compare with the maximal monogamy property of GHZ states.展开更多
Background: Mario Bertolotti, (1917) described LSTV-Lumbar spinal transitional vertebra as Bertolotti Syndrome a century ago and associated low back pain with it. Yet, it needs to be given significance in general orth...Background: Mario Bertolotti, (1917) described LSTV-Lumbar spinal transitional vertebra as Bertolotti Syndrome a century ago and associated low back pain with it. Yet, it needs to be given significance in general orthopaedic practice even now, and radiologists underreport it. LSTV is a congenital anatomical anomaly that Castellvi classified into four varying types. Purpose: I titled this phenomenon “Kiran Nandivada’s stuck blade in a grinder jar degenerative cascade by LSTV at L5-S1” to clearly explain how an abnormal mega-transverse apophysis with its various variations affects the weight-bearing mechanics as the L5-S1 which is a vital junction where the maximum body weight is directed into both the sacroiliac joints and if a transitional vertebra occurs it becomes detrimental and abnormally redirects the load-bearing forces and leads to a progressive degenerative cascade both proximally and distally. As the L5 vertebral rotations and other movements of flexion, extensions, lateral flexion are stuck like a bent grinder blade, the other areas of the region are damaged progressively as the pelvis, just like the grinder motor tries to move it, resulting in overheating and maybe even a burnout results in the form of facet arthritis, disc degeneration in the normal disc above, the transitional disc at L5-S1, foraminal osteophytes causing radiculopathy, sacroiliac joint arthritis. Material and Methods: Around 200 X-rays of children and adults with this congenital anomaly have been studied between 2020 and 2023. This is a retrospective study. Results: 1) Our study showed an Increased incidence of LSTV at 15%. 2) Patients ranged from asymptomatic, atypical lumbago to classical lumbago with sciatica and claudication. Findings supported facet and sacroiliac joint arthritis and the pain, relieved with physiotherapy, posture corrections, weight reduction, and lifestyle precautions, negating the need for local steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation or surgical excision as per our experience. Conclusion: Other dysp展开更多
Mg alloys are emerging as potential and very promising alternatives for replacing permanent metallic implant materials such as steels and titanium in applications where the implants need to be removed following healin...Mg alloys are emerging as potential and very promising alternatives for replacing permanent metallic implant materials such as steels and titanium in applications where the implants need to be removed following healing through revision surgery.Use of Mg alloys for implant application is seen as a game changer and Mg alloys are almost perfect materials for the future in both engineering and biomedical applications.Present review therefore focuses on highlighting significance of Mg alloys in biomedical field and risks of using permanent metallic implants particularly when the implants are no longer required after the injury is healed.In this review,importance of orthopedic implants in present scenario,serious concern related to accidents that are causing permanent disabilities,demand in orthopedic implant market worldwide,potential applications of Mg based materials and their compatibility in biological environment is presented and discussed.In addition,degradation rate,major reactions associated with Mg based materials and effect of alloying elements on implant performance are also discussed based on in-vivo results.Recent advances in development of Mg alloys through various techniques and their performance in in-vitro conditions are also outlined.Possible ways to eliminate the limitations of Mg alloys include alloying,melt purification,surface alterations,surface modifications,chemical treatment,secondary processing etc.are discussed.Challenges and opportunities for Mg alloys to become ideal implant material is also addressed.展开更多
The increasing deployment of Distributed Generation(DG) technologies introduces power quality challenges to the grid, in particular steady state voltage rise at the connection point for DG units. In most distribution ...The increasing deployment of Distributed Generation(DG) technologies introduces power quality challenges to the grid, in particular steady state voltage rise at the connection point for DG units. In most distribution networks,control and monitoring of grid parameters is missing, as well as system security is at risk. Smart grid technologies have the capability to realize the real-time measurements and on-load voltage controls. With the steady implementation of smart grid technologies throughout the existing distribution networks, the online voltage control can be achieved ensuring the power quality and voltage levels within the statutory limits. This study presents a methodology for the estimation of voltage profile in a smart distribution network with DG for the online voltage control, taking into account different line X/R ratios and laterals. This method is based on maximum and minimum voltage estimation by remote terminal units(RTUs) placed only at DG connected bus and at capacitor connected bus. Voltage regulation is carried out based on RTUs estimated values. This work is tested on two radial distribution networks with/without DGs and laterals. Comparative results for voltage magnitudes estimated with different methodology are presented. The reported simulation results show that the method presented is capable of estimating the voltage profile along the distribution network with DGs for the online voltage control, considering different line X/R ratios and laterals.展开更多
Plant respiration is characterized by two pathways for electron transfer to O2, namely the cytochrome pathway （CP） that is linked to ATP production, and the alternative pathway （AP）, where electrons from ubiquinol...Plant respiration is characterized by two pathways for electron transfer to O2, namely the cytochrome pathway （CP） that is linked to ATP production, and the alternative pathway （AP）, where electrons from ubiquinol are directly transferred to O2 via an alternative oxidase （AOX） without concomitant ATP production. This latter pathway is well suited to dispose of excess electrons in the light, leading to optimized photosynthetic performance. We have characterized T- DNA-insertion mutant lines of Arabidopsis thaliana that do not express the major isoform, AOXIA. In standard growth conditions, these plants did not show any phenotype, but restriction of electron flow through CP by antimycin A, which induces AOXIA expression in the wild-type, led to an increased expression of AOXID in leaves of the aoxla-knockout mutant. Despite the increased presence of the AOX1D isoform in the mutant, antimycin A caused inhibition of photosyn- thesis, increased ROS, and ultimately resulted in amplified membrane leakage and necrosis when compared to the wild- type, which was only marginally affected by the inhibitor. It thus appears that AOX1 D was unable to fully compensate for the loss of AOXIA when electron flow via the CP is restricted. A combination of inhibition studies, coupled to metabolite profiling and targeted expression analysis of the P-protein of glycine decarboxylase complex （GDC）, suggests that the aoxla mutants attempt to increase their capacity for photorespiration. However, given their deficiency, it is intriguing that increase in expression neither of AOX1D nor of GDC could fully compensate for the lack of AOXIA to optimize pho- tosynthesis when treated with antimycin A. We suggest that the aoxla mutants can further be used to substantiate the current models concerning the influence of mitochondrial redox on photosynthetic performance and gene expression.展开更多
In contemporary medicine,cardiovascular disease is a major public health concern.Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide.They are classified as vascular,ischemic,or hypertensive.Clinica...In contemporary medicine,cardiovascular disease is a major public health concern.Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide.They are classified as vascular,ischemic,or hypertensive.Clinical information contained in patients’Electronic Health Records(EHR)enables clin-icians to identify and monitor heart illness.Heart failure rates have risen drama-tically in recent years as a result of changes in modern lifestyles.Heart diseases are becoming more prevalent in today’s medical setting.Each year,a substantial number of people die as a result of cardiac pain.The primary cause of these deaths is the improper use of pharmaceuticals without the supervision of a physician and the late detection of diseases.To improve the efficiency of the classification algo-rithms,we construct a data pre-processing stage using feature selection.Experi-ments using unidirectional and bidirectional neural network models found that a Deep Learning Modified Neural Network(DLMNN)model combined with the Pet Dog-Smell Sensing(PD-SS)algorithm predicted the highest classification performance on the UCI Machine Learning Heart Disease dataset.The DLMNN-based PDSS achieved an accuracy of 94.21%,an F-score of 92.38%,a recall of 94.62%,and a precision of 93.86%.These results are competitive and promising for a heart disease dataset.We demonstrated that a DLMNN framework based on deep models may be used to solve the categorization problem for an unbalanced heart disease dataset.Our proposed approach can result in exceptionally accurate models that can be utilized to analyze and diagnose clinical real-world data.展开更多
Mechanical properties and abrasive wear behaviour of bi-directional jute fabric reinforced epoxy (J/Ep) with micron sized TiO<sub>2</sub> particles at different wt% (2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10) were investigated. ...Mechanical properties and abrasive wear behaviour of bi-directional jute fabric reinforced epoxy (J/Ep) with micron sized TiO<sub>2</sub> particles at different wt% (2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10) were investigated. The tribo-potential of combined effect of TiO<sub>2</sub> and jute fiber in epoxy (J/Ep) for enhancing the abrasion resistance has not been studied so far. Hence, the present work aims to explore the possibility of using TiO<sub>2</sub> filler and jute fiber to reinforce the epoxy and thus open a new way to implement inexpensive reinforcements and produce new candidate tribo-material for industrial applications. Silane treated TiO<sub>2</sub> filled J/Ep composites were prepared by hand lay-up method. Selected mechanical properties and three-body abrasive wear tests were evaluated as per ASTM standards. Results indicate an enhancement in the J/Ep composite mechanical properties due to addition of TiO<sub>2</sub> particles up to 7.5 wt% of loading. Highest tensile and flexural properties were found at 7.5 wt% TiO<sub>2</sub> loading. Results of abrasion tests show resistance to abrasion at 5 wt% TiO<sub>2</sub> filled J/Ep composite. Scanning electron micrographs evidenced that the fiber and filler have fairly good bonding with matrix. Finally, this investigation confirms the applicability of TiO<sub>2</sub> as secondary reinforcement in J/Ep composite.展开更多
Water hammer pressure transient produces large dynamic forces which can damage the pipes and other assemblies in the feed line of a reaction control system(RCS).It has led to the failure of pressure transducers monito...Water hammer pressure transient produces large dynamic forces which can damage the pipes and other assemblies in the feed line of a reaction control system(RCS).It has led to the failure of pressure transducers monitoring the manifold pressure in the feed line of RCS.Therefore,water hammer studies have been carried out to understand its effect in feed line.Feedline system has been simplified to develop a mathematical model and experiments have been carried out at extensive levels.The mathematical model was developed considering pipe of uniform c/s and moving liquid-gas interface.The experimental studies have been done using water as working medium instead of actual propellant.The studies showed that rate of pressurization have a very critical role on the water hammer amplitude.Sensitivity studies have been also carried out to study the effect of density,friction and initial liquid column length on water hammer amplitude.展开更多
Prediction of the potentially devastating impact of landfalling tropical cyclones(TCs)relies substantially on numerical prediction systems.Due to the limited predictability of TCs and the need to express forecast conf...Prediction of the potentially devastating impact of landfalling tropical cyclones(TCs)relies substantially on numerical prediction systems.Due to the limited predictability of TCs and the need to express forecast confidence and possible scenarios,it is vital to exploit the benefits of dynamic ensemble forecasts in operational TC forecasts and warnings.RSMCs,TCWCs,and other forecast centers value probabilistic guidance for TCs,but the International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones(IWTC-9)found that the“pull-through”of probabilistic information to operational warnings using those forecasts is slow.IWTC-9 recommendations led to the formation of the WMO/WWRP Tropical Cyclone-Probabilistic Forecast Products(TC-PFP)project,which is also endorsed as a WMO Seamless GDPFS Pilot Project.The main goal of TC-PFP is to coordinate across forecast centers to help identify best practice guidance for probabilistic TC forecasts.TC-PFP is being implemented in 3 phases:Phase 1(TC formation and position);Phase 2(TC intensity and structure);and Phase 3(TC related rainfall and storm surge).This article provides a summary of Phase 1 and reviews the current state of the science of probabilistic forecasting of TC formation and position.There is considerable variability in the nature and interpretation of forecast products based on ensemble information,making it challenging to transfer knowledge of best practices across forecast centers.Communication among forecast centers regarding the effectiveness of different approaches would be helpful for conveying best practices.Close collaboration with experts experienced in communicating complex probabilistic TC information and sharing of best practices between centers would help to ensure effective decisions can be made based on TC forecasts.Finally,forecast centers need timely access to ensemble information that has consistent,user-friendly ensemble information.Greater consistency across forecast centers in data accessibility,probabilistic forecast products,and warnings and their communication 展开更多
In this article, we devise two dual based methods for obtaining very good solution to a single stage un-capacitated minimum cost flow problem. These methods are an improvement to the methods already developed by Sharm...In this article, we devise two dual based methods for obtaining very good solution to a single stage un-capacitated minimum cost flow problem. These methods are an improvement to the methods already developed by Sharma and Saxena [1]. We further develop a method to extract a very good primal solution from a given dual solution. We later demonstrate the efficacies and the significance of these methods on 150 random problems.展开更多
The agriculture in low rainfall areas of eastern Rajasthan, India is characterized by high risks from drought, degraded natural resources and pervasive poverty, food insecurity and malnutrition. In this region, water ...The agriculture in low rainfall areas of eastern Rajasthan, India is characterized by high risks from drought, degraded natural resources and pervasive poverty, food insecurity and malnutrition. In this region, water is the main limiting factor for upgrading rainfed agriculture. For such areas integrated watershed management is recognized as a potential approach for agriculture growth and rehabilitation of fragile and degraded lands. At Gokulpura-Goverdhanpura village in Bundi eastern Rajasthan, India an integrated watershed project was implemented using the holistic systems approach. This paper discusses the impacts of this watershed program on bio-physical, socio-economic, environmental and ecological parameters. Results indicate that due to watershed interventions the groundwater availability has substantially increased which brought changes in cropping patterns with high value crops. Significant increases in irrigated area, cropping intensity along with diversification of crops from traditional to commercial cash crops were recorded. The watershed program also significantly improved the socio-economic status of the watershed community. It has increased the income and reduced poverty of the people in the watershed. The watershed interventions generated good employment opportunities and significantly reduced the migration of both skilled and unskilled labor from the watershed village to urban areas. It has also improved the environmental quality and ecological status in the watershed. The watershed interventions increased the vegetative index or greenery, reduced runoff, soil loss, and land degradations and improved the bio-diversity in fragile ecosystems. Overall, the integrated watershed program at Gokulpura-Goverdhanpura provided resilience by ensuring continued and sustainable multiple outputs, besides soil and water conservation and other positive environmental effects.展开更多
Chondrocytes and osteoblasts differentiate from a common mesenchymal precursor, the osteochondroprogenitor（OCP）, and help build the vertebrate skeleton. The signaling pathways that control lineage commitment for OCP...Chondrocytes and osteoblasts differentiate from a common mesenchymal precursor, the osteochondroprogenitor（OCP）, and help build the vertebrate skeleton. The signaling pathways that control lineage commitment for OCPs are incompletely understood. We asked whether the ubiquitously expressed protein-tyrosine phosphatase SHP2（encoded by Ptpn11） affects skeletal lineage commitment by conditionally deleting Ptpn11 in mouse limb and head mesenchyme using ＂Cre-lox P＂-mediated gene excision.SHP2-deficient mice have increased cartilage mass and deficient ossification, suggesting that SHP2-deficient OCPs become chondrocytes and not osteoblasts. Consistent with these observations, the expression of the master chondrogenic transcription factor SOX9 and its target genes Acan, Col2a1, and Col10a1 were increased in SHP2-deficient chondrocytes, as revealed by gene expression arrays, q RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, and immunostaining. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that SHP2 regulates OCP fate determination via the phosphorylation and SUMOylation of SOX9, mediated at least in part via the PKA signaling pathway. Our data indicate that SHP2 is critical for skeletal cell lineage differentiation and could thus be a pharmacologic target for bone and cartilage regeneration.展开更多
In the past, researchers have applied Bender’s decomposition to distribution problem and used feasibility constraint to speed up the performance of Bender’s decomposition. Further, the application of Branch and Boun...In the past, researchers have applied Bender’s decomposition to distribution problem and used feasibility constraint to speed up the performance of Bender’s decomposition. Further, the application of Branch and Bound to single-stage multi-commodity single-period warehouse location problem (SSMCSPWLP) with strong constraints has shown that they are more effective. It was also shown in the previous research (in the context of Branch and Bound Methodology) that hybrid formulation for the single-stage single-period multi-commodity warehouse location problem yielded superior results. In this paper we apply Benders’ decomposition to strong and weak formulations of single-stage multi-commodity multi-period warehouse location problem (SSMCMPWLP). As suggested in the previous literature we put feasibility constraints in the pure integer sub- problem to speed up the performance of Benders’ decomposition. We also develop an additional cut (constraint that is again added to pure integer sub-problem) and show that it further speeded up Benders’ Decomposition. This research led to the possibility of applying Benders’ Decomposition to the hybrid formulation of SSMCMPWLP in future.展开更多
The present paper deals with development of a course evaluation survey (CES) questionnaire regarding evaluation of humanities courses (e.g., Commerce/Economics/Law) and assessment of its validity and reliability. Taki...The present paper deals with development of a course evaluation survey (CES) questionnaire regarding evaluation of humanities courses (e.g., Commerce/Economics/Law) and assessment of its validity and reliability. Taking help from available questionnaires and also incorporating views from the teachers of the related subjects, the relevant Likert type items were selected. The drafted version of the questionnaire was finalized taking into account feedback from the subject experts. The focus was on simple language to ensure clarity to the students to facilitate accuracy of the collected data. The developed questionnaire consists of five domains involving fifteen Likert type items including a global item. For assessment of its reliability and validity, data were collected among two groups of undergraduate students studying two courses namely Accounts (n = 190) and Law (n = 90). For assessing questionnaire, Karl Pearson Correlation Coefficient, Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient and four factor solutions under factor analysis were used. The analytical results were quite consistent across the data sets (that are, accounts, law and pooled together) that exhibit good psychometric properties. It may thus be concluded that the questionnaire is valid, reliable and may measure what it is intended to measure.展开更多
文摘AIM: To study clinical and histopathological features of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) in patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) using updated nonalcoholic steatohepatitis clinical research network(NASH-CRN) grading system.METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data of 235 patients with biopsy proven NAFLD with and without T2 DM.This database was utilized in the previously published study comparing ethnicity outcomes in NAFLD by the same corresponding author.The pathology database from University of Chicago was utilized for enrolling consecutive patients who met the criteria for NAFLD and their detailed clinical and histopathology findings were obtained for comparison.The relevant clinical profile of patients was collected from the Electronic Medical Records around the time of liver biopsy and the histology was read by a single well-trained histopathologist.The updated criteria for type 2 diabetes have been utilized for analysis.Background data of patients with NASH and NAFLD has been included.The mean differences were compared using χ2 and t-test along with regression analysis to evaluate the predictors of NASH and advanced fibrosis.RESULTS: Patients with NAFLD and T2 DM were significantly older(49.9 vs 43.0,P < 0.01),predominantly female(71.4 vs 56.3,P < 0.02),had higher rate of metabolic syndrome(88.7 vs 36.4,P < 0.01),had significantly higher aspartate transaminase(AST)/alanine transaminase(ALT) ratio(0.94 vs 0.78,P < 0.01) and Fib-4 index(1.65 vs 1.06,P < 0.01) as markers of NASH,showed higher mean NAFLD activity score(3.5 vs 3.0,P = 0.03) and higher mean fibrosis score(1.2 vs 0.52,P < 0.01) compared to patients with NAFLD without T2 DM.Furthermore,advanced fibrosis(32.5 vs 12.0,P < 0.01) and ballooning(27.3 vs 13.3,P < 0.01) was significantly higher among patients with NAFLD and T2 DM compared to patients with NAFLD without T2 DM.On multivariate analysis,T2 DM was independently associated with NASH(OR = 3.27,95%CI: 1.43-7.50,P < 0.01) and advanced fibrosis(OR = 3.45,95%CI: 1.53-7.
文摘Introduction: Coccydynia, television disease, and coccygodynia are the different names given to this disabling disease, which can become chronic. It was described by Simson in 1859. Coccydynia means pain at the end of the vertebral column. Non-traumatic coccydynia is a diagnosis, which is never straightforward like traumatic coccydynia because the onset is unclear, and both the patient and the unaware clinician face many challenges in treating it on time and with accuracy. Coccyx was likened to a cuckoo bird’s beak as a curved bone of fused 3 to 5 vertebrae with remnant disc material in some rare cases, unfused segments, linear scoliosis or subluxations and deformities. Stress X-rays of the coccyx in the antero-posterior and lateral views in standing and sitting reveal the “Dynamic Instability” due to congenital coccygeal morphological, pathological and mechanical variations. Material and Methods: This is a complex study having retrograde data collected from online publications from various databases, like PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library and also antegrade data collected from 100 patients with their consent from patients in Adam and Eve Specialised Medical Centre-based at Abu Dhabi, UAE and data was processed in the research centre of Krushi Orthopaedic Welfare Society based in India between 2014-2024 following all guidelines of Helsinki and approved by the ethics board of Krushi Orthopaedic Welfare Society. Clinical Presentation: The coccyx is painful, with aches, spasms, and an inability to sit. This affects daily activities without any particular date of onset. The onset remains insidious for the non-traumatic variety of coccydynia. Aetiology and Patho Anatomy: Non-traumatic coccydynia can be caused by a myriad of reasons, like congenital morphological variations, acquired dynamic instabilities, and hidden trauma remaining quiescent to re-surface as a strain-induced pain. Radiological Presentations: Unless clarity is focused on these coccygeal views, the errors of the unevacuated rectum, non-dynamic
文摘We explore the entanglement features of pure symmetric N-qubit states characterized by N-distinct spinors with a particular focus on the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GHZ) states and , an equal superposition of W and obverse W states. Along with a comparison of pairwise entanglement and monogamy properties, we explore the geometric information contained in them by constructing their canonical steering ellipsoids. We obtain the volume monogamy relations satisfied by states as a function of number of qubits and compare with the maximal monogamy property of GHZ states.
文摘Background: Mario Bertolotti, (1917) described LSTV-Lumbar spinal transitional vertebra as Bertolotti Syndrome a century ago and associated low back pain with it. Yet, it needs to be given significance in general orthopaedic practice even now, and radiologists underreport it. LSTV is a congenital anatomical anomaly that Castellvi classified into four varying types. Purpose: I titled this phenomenon “Kiran Nandivada’s stuck blade in a grinder jar degenerative cascade by LSTV at L5-S1” to clearly explain how an abnormal mega-transverse apophysis with its various variations affects the weight-bearing mechanics as the L5-S1 which is a vital junction where the maximum body weight is directed into both the sacroiliac joints and if a transitional vertebra occurs it becomes detrimental and abnormally redirects the load-bearing forces and leads to a progressive degenerative cascade both proximally and distally. As the L5 vertebral rotations and other movements of flexion, extensions, lateral flexion are stuck like a bent grinder blade, the other areas of the region are damaged progressively as the pelvis, just like the grinder motor tries to move it, resulting in overheating and maybe even a burnout results in the form of facet arthritis, disc degeneration in the normal disc above, the transitional disc at L5-S1, foraminal osteophytes causing radiculopathy, sacroiliac joint arthritis. Material and Methods: Around 200 X-rays of children and adults with this congenital anomaly have been studied between 2020 and 2023. This is a retrospective study. Results: 1) Our study showed an Increased incidence of LSTV at 15%. 2) Patients ranged from asymptomatic, atypical lumbago to classical lumbago with sciatica and claudication. Findings supported facet and sacroiliac joint arthritis and the pain, relieved with physiotherapy, posture corrections, weight reduction, and lifestyle precautions, negating the need for local steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation or surgical excision as per our experience. Conclusion: Other dysp
文摘Mg alloys are emerging as potential and very promising alternatives for replacing permanent metallic implant materials such as steels and titanium in applications where the implants need to be removed following healing through revision surgery.Use of Mg alloys for implant application is seen as a game changer and Mg alloys are almost perfect materials for the future in both engineering and biomedical applications.Present review therefore focuses on highlighting significance of Mg alloys in biomedical field and risks of using permanent metallic implants particularly when the implants are no longer required after the injury is healed.In this review,importance of orthopedic implants in present scenario,serious concern related to accidents that are causing permanent disabilities,demand in orthopedic implant market worldwide,potential applications of Mg based materials and their compatibility in biological environment is presented and discussed.In addition,degradation rate,major reactions associated with Mg based materials and effect of alloying elements on implant performance are also discussed based on in-vivo results.Recent advances in development of Mg alloys through various techniques and their performance in in-vitro conditions are also outlined.Possible ways to eliminate the limitations of Mg alloys include alloying,melt purification,surface alterations,surface modifications,chemical treatment,secondary processing etc.are discussed.Challenges and opportunities for Mg alloys to become ideal implant material is also addressed.
文摘The increasing deployment of Distributed Generation(DG) technologies introduces power quality challenges to the grid, in particular steady state voltage rise at the connection point for DG units. In most distribution networks,control and monitoring of grid parameters is missing, as well as system security is at risk. Smart grid technologies have the capability to realize the real-time measurements and on-load voltage controls. With the steady implementation of smart grid technologies throughout the existing distribution networks, the online voltage control can be achieved ensuring the power quality and voltage levels within the statutory limits. This study presents a methodology for the estimation of voltage profile in a smart distribution network with DG for the online voltage control, taking into account different line X/R ratios and laterals. This method is based on maximum and minimum voltage estimation by remote terminal units(RTUs) placed only at DG connected bus and at capacitor connected bus. Voltage regulation is carried out based on RTUs estimated values. This work is tested on two radial distribution networks with/without DGs and laterals. Comparative results for voltage magnitudes estimated with different methodology are presented. The reported simulation results show that the method presented is capable of estimating the voltage profile along the distribution network with DGs for the online voltage control, considering different line X/R ratios and laterals.
文摘Plant respiration is characterized by two pathways for electron transfer to O2, namely the cytochrome pathway （CP） that is linked to ATP production, and the alternative pathway （AP）, where electrons from ubiquinol are directly transferred to O2 via an alternative oxidase （AOX） without concomitant ATP production. This latter pathway is well suited to dispose of excess electrons in the light, leading to optimized photosynthetic performance. We have characterized T- DNA-insertion mutant lines of Arabidopsis thaliana that do not express the major isoform, AOXIA. In standard growth conditions, these plants did not show any phenotype, but restriction of electron flow through CP by antimycin A, which induces AOXIA expression in the wild-type, led to an increased expression of AOXID in leaves of the aoxla-knockout mutant. Despite the increased presence of the AOX1D isoform in the mutant, antimycin A caused inhibition of photosyn- thesis, increased ROS, and ultimately resulted in amplified membrane leakage and necrosis when compared to the wild- type, which was only marginally affected by the inhibitor. It thus appears that AOX1 D was unable to fully compensate for the loss of AOXIA when electron flow via the CP is restricted. A combination of inhibition studies, coupled to metabolite profiling and targeted expression analysis of the P-protein of glycine decarboxylase complex （GDC）, suggests that the aoxla mutants attempt to increase their capacity for photorespiration. However, given their deficiency, it is intriguing that increase in expression neither of AOX1D nor of GDC could fully compensate for the lack of AOXIA to optimize pho- tosynthesis when treated with antimycin A. We suggest that the aoxla mutants can further be used to substantiate the current models concerning the influence of mitochondrial redox on photosynthetic performance and gene expression.
文摘In contemporary medicine,cardiovascular disease is a major public health concern.Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide.They are classified as vascular,ischemic,or hypertensive.Clinical information contained in patients’Electronic Health Records(EHR)enables clin-icians to identify and monitor heart illness.Heart failure rates have risen drama-tically in recent years as a result of changes in modern lifestyles.Heart diseases are becoming more prevalent in today’s medical setting.Each year,a substantial number of people die as a result of cardiac pain.The primary cause of these deaths is the improper use of pharmaceuticals without the supervision of a physician and the late detection of diseases.To improve the efficiency of the classification algo-rithms,we construct a data pre-processing stage using feature selection.Experi-ments using unidirectional and bidirectional neural network models found that a Deep Learning Modified Neural Network(DLMNN)model combined with the Pet Dog-Smell Sensing(PD-SS)algorithm predicted the highest classification performance on the UCI Machine Learning Heart Disease dataset.The DLMNN-based PDSS achieved an accuracy of 94.21%,an F-score of 92.38%,a recall of 94.62%,and a precision of 93.86%.These results are competitive and promising for a heart disease dataset.We demonstrated that a DLMNN framework based on deep models may be used to solve the categorization problem for an unbalanced heart disease dataset.Our proposed approach can result in exceptionally accurate models that can be utilized to analyze and diagnose clinical real-world data.
文摘Mechanical properties and abrasive wear behaviour of bi-directional jute fabric reinforced epoxy (J/Ep) with micron sized TiO<sub>2</sub> particles at different wt% (2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10) were investigated. The tribo-potential of combined effect of TiO<sub>2</sub> and jute fiber in epoxy (J/Ep) for enhancing the abrasion resistance has not been studied so far. Hence, the present work aims to explore the possibility of using TiO<sub>2</sub> filler and jute fiber to reinforce the epoxy and thus open a new way to implement inexpensive reinforcements and produce new candidate tribo-material for industrial applications. Silane treated TiO<sub>2</sub> filled J/Ep composites were prepared by hand lay-up method. Selected mechanical properties and three-body abrasive wear tests were evaluated as per ASTM standards. Results indicate an enhancement in the J/Ep composite mechanical properties due to addition of TiO<sub>2</sub> particles up to 7.5 wt% of loading. Highest tensile and flexural properties were found at 7.5 wt% TiO<sub>2</sub> loading. Results of abrasion tests show resistance to abrasion at 5 wt% TiO<sub>2</sub> filled J/Ep composite. Scanning electron micrographs evidenced that the fiber and filler have fairly good bonding with matrix. Finally, this investigation confirms the applicability of TiO<sub>2</sub> as secondary reinforcement in J/Ep composite.
文摘Water hammer pressure transient produces large dynamic forces which can damage the pipes and other assemblies in the feed line of a reaction control system(RCS).It has led to the failure of pressure transducers monitoring the manifold pressure in the feed line of RCS.Therefore,water hammer studies have been carried out to understand its effect in feed line.Feedline system has been simplified to develop a mathematical model and experiments have been carried out at extensive levels.The mathematical model was developed considering pipe of uniform c/s and moving liquid-gas interface.The experimental studies have been done using water as working medium instead of actual propellant.The studies showed that rate of pressurization have a very critical role on the water hammer amplitude.Sensitivity studies have been also carried out to study the effect of density,friction and initial liquid column length on water hammer amplitude.
文摘Prediction of the potentially devastating impact of landfalling tropical cyclones(TCs)relies substantially on numerical prediction systems.Due to the limited predictability of TCs and the need to express forecast confidence and possible scenarios,it is vital to exploit the benefits of dynamic ensemble forecasts in operational TC forecasts and warnings.RSMCs,TCWCs,and other forecast centers value probabilistic guidance for TCs,but the International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones(IWTC-9)found that the“pull-through”of probabilistic information to operational warnings using those forecasts is slow.IWTC-9 recommendations led to the formation of the WMO/WWRP Tropical Cyclone-Probabilistic Forecast Products(TC-PFP)project,which is also endorsed as a WMO Seamless GDPFS Pilot Project.The main goal of TC-PFP is to coordinate across forecast centers to help identify best practice guidance for probabilistic TC forecasts.TC-PFP is being implemented in 3 phases:Phase 1(TC formation and position);Phase 2(TC intensity and structure);and Phase 3(TC related rainfall and storm surge).This article provides a summary of Phase 1 and reviews the current state of the science of probabilistic forecasting of TC formation and position.There is considerable variability in the nature and interpretation of forecast products based on ensemble information,making it challenging to transfer knowledge of best practices across forecast centers.Communication among forecast centers regarding the effectiveness of different approaches would be helpful for conveying best practices.Close collaboration with experts experienced in communicating complex probabilistic TC information and sharing of best practices between centers would help to ensure effective decisions can be made based on TC forecasts.Finally,forecast centers need timely access to ensemble information that has consistent,user-friendly ensemble information.Greater consistency across forecast centers in data accessibility,probabilistic forecast products,and warnings and their communication
文摘In this article, we devise two dual based methods for obtaining very good solution to a single stage un-capacitated minimum cost flow problem. These methods are an improvement to the methods already developed by Sharma and Saxena [1]. We further develop a method to extract a very good primal solution from a given dual solution. We later demonstrate the efficacies and the significance of these methods on 150 random problems.
文摘The agriculture in low rainfall areas of eastern Rajasthan, India is characterized by high risks from drought, degraded natural resources and pervasive poverty, food insecurity and malnutrition. In this region, water is the main limiting factor for upgrading rainfed agriculture. For such areas integrated watershed management is recognized as a potential approach for agriculture growth and rehabilitation of fragile and degraded lands. At Gokulpura-Goverdhanpura village in Bundi eastern Rajasthan, India an integrated watershed project was implemented using the holistic systems approach. This paper discusses the impacts of this watershed program on bio-physical, socio-economic, environmental and ecological parameters. Results indicate that due to watershed interventions the groundwater availability has substantially increased which brought changes in cropping patterns with high value crops. Significant increases in irrigated area, cropping intensity along with diversification of crops from traditional to commercial cash crops were recorded. The watershed program also significantly improved the socio-economic status of the watershed community. It has increased the income and reduced poverty of the people in the watershed. The watershed interventions generated good employment opportunities and significantly reduced the migration of both skilled and unskilled labor from the watershed village to urban areas. It has also improved the environmental quality and ecological status in the watershed. The watershed interventions increased the vegetative index or greenery, reduced runoff, soil loss, and land degradations and improved the bio-diversity in fragile ecosystems. Overall, the integrated watershed program at Gokulpura-Goverdhanpura provided resilience by ensuring continued and sustainable multiple outputs, besides soil and water conservation and other positive environmental effects.
基金supported by NIH R21AR57156NIH R37 CA49152+4 种基金the Rhode Island Hospital Orthopaedic Foundationgrant from the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North AmericaArthritis National Research Foundationrecipient of Ryan Fellowshippilot award recipient from NIGMS1P20 GM119943
文摘Chondrocytes and osteoblasts differentiate from a common mesenchymal precursor, the osteochondroprogenitor（OCP）, and help build the vertebrate skeleton. The signaling pathways that control lineage commitment for OCPs are incompletely understood. We asked whether the ubiquitously expressed protein-tyrosine phosphatase SHP2（encoded by Ptpn11） affects skeletal lineage commitment by conditionally deleting Ptpn11 in mouse limb and head mesenchyme using ＂Cre-lox P＂-mediated gene excision.SHP2-deficient mice have increased cartilage mass and deficient ossification, suggesting that SHP2-deficient OCPs become chondrocytes and not osteoblasts. Consistent with these observations, the expression of the master chondrogenic transcription factor SOX9 and its target genes Acan, Col2a1, and Col10a1 were increased in SHP2-deficient chondrocytes, as revealed by gene expression arrays, q RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, and immunostaining. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that SHP2 regulates OCP fate determination via the phosphorylation and SUMOylation of SOX9, mediated at least in part via the PKA signaling pathway. Our data indicate that SHP2 is critical for skeletal cell lineage differentiation and could thus be a pharmacologic target for bone and cartilage regeneration.
文摘In the past, researchers have applied Bender’s decomposition to distribution problem and used feasibility constraint to speed up the performance of Bender’s decomposition. Further, the application of Branch and Bound to single-stage multi-commodity single-period warehouse location problem (SSMCSPWLP) with strong constraints has shown that they are more effective. It was also shown in the previous research (in the context of Branch and Bound Methodology) that hybrid formulation for the single-stage single-period multi-commodity warehouse location problem yielded superior results. In this paper we apply Benders’ decomposition to strong and weak formulations of single-stage multi-commodity multi-period warehouse location problem (SSMCMPWLP). As suggested in the previous literature we put feasibility constraints in the pure integer sub- problem to speed up the performance of Benders’ decomposition. We also develop an additional cut (constraint that is again added to pure integer sub-problem) and show that it further speeded up Benders’ Decomposition. This research led to the possibility of applying Benders’ Decomposition to the hybrid formulation of SSMCMPWLP in future.
文摘The present paper deals with development of a course evaluation survey (CES) questionnaire regarding evaluation of humanities courses (e.g., Commerce/Economics/Law) and assessment of its validity and reliability. Taking help from available questionnaires and also incorporating views from the teachers of the related subjects, the relevant Likert type items were selected. The drafted version of the questionnaire was finalized taking into account feedback from the subject experts. The focus was on simple language to ensure clarity to the students to facilitate accuracy of the collected data. The developed questionnaire consists of five domains involving fifteen Likert type items including a global item. For assessment of its reliability and validity, data were collected among two groups of undergraduate students studying two courses namely Accounts (n = 190) and Law (n = 90). For assessing questionnaire, Karl Pearson Correlation Coefficient, Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient and four factor solutions under factor analysis were used. The analytical results were quite consistent across the data sets (that are, accounts, law and pooled together) that exhibit good psychometric properties. It may thus be concluded that the questionnaire is valid, reliable and may measure what it is intended to measure.
