Ecotourism and mangrove conservation in Southeast Asia: Current trends and perspectives.

Mangroves in Southeast Asia provide numerous supporting, provisioning, regulating, and cultural services that are crucial to the environment and local livelihoods since they support biodiversity conservation and climate change resilience. However, Southeast Asia mangroves face deforestation threats from the expansion of commercial aquaculture, agriculture, and urban development, along with climate change-related natural processes. Ecotourism has gained prominence as a financial incentive tool to support mangrove conservation and restoration. Through a systematic literature review approach, we examined the relationships between ecotourism and mangrove conservation in Southeast Asia based on scientific papers published from 2010 to 2022. Most of the studies were reported in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, respectively, which were associated with the highest number of vibrant mangrove ecotourism sites and largest mangrove areas compared to the other countries of Southeast Asia. Mangrove-related ecotourism activities in the above countries mainly include boat tours, bird and wildlife watching, mangrove planting, kayaking, eating seafood, and snorkeling. The economic benefits, such as an increase in income associated with mangrove ecotourism, have stimulated infrastructural development in ecotourism destinations. Local communities benefited from increased access to social amenities such as clean water, electricity, transportation networks, schools, and health services that are intended to make destinations more attractive to tourists. Economic benefits from mangrove ecotourism motivated the implementation of several community-based mangrove conservation and restoration initiatives, which attracted international financial incentives and public-private partnerships. Since mangroves are mostly located on the land occupied by indigenous people and local communities, ensuring respect for their land rights and equity in economic benefit sharing may increase their intrinsic motivation and participation in mangrove restoration and conservation initiatives. Remote sensing tools for mangrove monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, and integrated education and awareness campaigns can ensure the long-term conservation of mangroves while sustaining ecotourism's economic infrastructure and social amenities benefits.

Optical imaging for diabetic retinopathy diagnosis and detection using ensemble models.

Diabetes, characterized by heightened blood sugar levels, can lead to a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), which adversely impacts the eyes due to elevated blood sugar affecting the retinal blood vessels. The most common cause of blindness in diabetics is thought to be Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), particularly in working-age individuals living in poor nations. People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes may develop this illness, and the risk rises with the length of diabetes and inadequate blood sugar management. There are limits to traditional approaches for the early identification of diabetic retinopathy (DR). In order to diagnose diabetic retinopathy, a model based on Convolutional neural network (CNN) is used in a unique way in this research. The suggested model uses a number of deep learning (DL) models, such as VGG19, Resnet50, and InceptionV3, to extract features. After concatenation, these characteristics are sent through the CNN algorithm for classification. By combining the advantages of several models, ensemble approaches can be effective tools for detecting diabetic retinopathy and increase overall performance and resilience. Classification and image recognition are just a few of the tasks that may be accomplished with ensemble approaches like combination of VGG19,Inception V3 and Resnet 50 to achieve high accuracy. The proposed model is evaluated using a publicly accessible collection of fundus images.VGG19, ResNet50, and InceptionV3 differ in their neural network architectures, feature extraction capabilities, object detection methods, and approaches to retinal delineation. VGG19 may excel in capturing fine details, ResNet50 in recognizing complex patterns, and InceptionV3 in efficiently capturing multi-scale features. Their combined use in an ensemble approach can provide a comprehensive analysis of retinal images, aiding in the delineation of retinal regions and identification of abnormalities associated with diabetic retinopathy. For instance, micro aneurysms, the earliest signs of DR, often require precise detection of subtle vascular abnormalities. VGG19's proficiency in capturing fine details allows for the identification of these minute changes in retinal morphology. On the other hand, ResNet50's strength lies in recognizing intricate patterns, making it effective in detecting neoneovascularization and complex haemorrhagic lesions. Meanwhile, InceptionV3's multi-scale feature extraction enables comprehensive analysis, crucial for assessing macular oedema and ischaemic changes across different retinal layers.

Remote sensing-based mangrove blue carbon assessment in the Asia-Pacific: A systematic review.

Accurate measuring, mapping, and monitoring of mangrove forests support the sustainable management of mangrove blue carbon in the Asia-Pacific. Remote sensing coupled with modeling can efficiently and accurately estimate mangrove blue carbon stocks at larger spatiotemporal extents. This study aimed to identify trends in remote sensing/modeling employed in estimating mangrove blue carbon, attributes/variations in mangrove carbon sequestration estimated using remote sensing, and to compile research gaps and opportunities, followed by providing recommendations for future research. Using a systematic literature review approach, we reviewed 105 remote sensing-based peer-reviewed articles (1990 - June 2023). Despite their high mangrove extent, there was a paucity of studies from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Papua New Guinea. The most frequently used sensor was Sentinel-2 MSI, accounting for 14.5 % of overall usage, followed by Landsat 8 OLI (11.5 %), ALOS-2 PALSAR-2 (7.3 %), ALOS PALSAR (7.2 %), Landsat 7 ETM+ (6.1 %), Sentinel-1 (6.7 %), Landsat 5 TM (5.5 %), SRTM DEM (5.5 %), and UAV-LiDAR (4.8 %). Although parametric methods like linear regression remain the most widely used, machine learning regression models such as Random Forest (RF) and eXtreme Gradient Boost (XGB) have become popular in recent years and have shown good accuracy. Among a variety of attributes estimated, below-ground mangrove blue carbon and the valuation of carbon stock were less studied. The variation in carbon sequestration potential as a result of location, species, and forest type was widely studied. To improve the accuracy of blue carbon measurements, standardized/coordinated and innovative methodologies accompanied by credible information and actionable data should be carried out. Technical monitoring (every 2-5 years) enhanced by remote sensing can provide accurate and precise data for sustainable mangrove management while opening ventures for voluntary carbon markets to benefit the environment and local livelihood in developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

Characteristics and Outcomes of a Single-Centre Cohort of Adult Congenital Heart Disease Patients Referred for Heart Transplant.

BACKGROUND: Adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) services increasingly encounter heart failure (HF) in the ageing ACHD population. Optimal timing of referral for heart transplant (HTx) evaluation in this heterogeneous population is complex and ill-defined. We aim to outline the characteristics and outcomes of ACHD patients referred for HTx from a large Australian ACHD centre. METHOD: Retrospective review of ACHD patients referred for HTx from a primary ACHD centre (1992-2021). Database analysis of patient demographics, characteristics, wait-listing, and transplantation outcomes was performed. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients (mean age 37±9.9 years old; 69% male) were referred for HTx with a mean follow-up of 5.9±6.3 years. Of these, 22 of 45 (49%) were listed and transplanted, including one heart-lung transplant. The commonest diagnosis was dextro-transposition of the great arteries (13/45, 29%). Most patients, 33 of 45 (73.3%) had undergone at least one cardiac surgery in childhood. Indications for HTx referral included HF in 34 of 45 (75%), followed by pulmonary hypertension in 7 of 45 (11%). Median transplant wait-list time was 145 days (interquartile range, 112-256). Of the 23 patients not wait-listed, the reasons included clinical stability in 13 of 45 (29%), psychosocial factors in 2 of 45 (4.4%) and prohibitive surgical risk, including multiorgan dysfunction, in 8 of 45 (17.7%). Transplant was of a single organ in most, 21 of 22 (95.5%). Overall mortality was 5 of 22 (22.7%) in those after HTx, and 14 of 23 (60.9%) in those not listed (p=0.0156). CONCLUSIONS: Increasingly, ACHD patients demonstrate the need for advanced HF treatments. HTx decision-making is complex, and increased mortality is seen in those not wait-listed. Ultimately, the referral of ACHD patients for HTx is underpinned by local decision-making and experience, wait-list times and outcomes.

How Is It Possible to Treat Diseases Without Medicine?: A Qualitative Study on the Attitude and Perceived Benefits of Yoga and Naturopathy Among Patients Admitted at an Inpatient Hospital.

Background: Yoga and naturopathy (Y&N) is a system of medicine primarily focusing on restoration of health and well-being. Objective of this study is to understand the knowledge, attitude, and perception about Y&N among the inpatients of a government Y&N institution in south India. Methods: Focus group discussion was conducted in eight adult patients aged between 30 and 60 years who took Y&N treatments for a period of 10 days or more. Purposive sampling method was adopted. Oral informed consent was obtained. Results: Knowledge about the Y&N system of medicine was primarily through referral or "word of mouth." Perceived benefits were both physical and psychological. Uniqueness of the hospital as mentioned by participants includes individual attention, tailor-made treatment protocols, and one-to-one care to the needy patients. Conclusion: An integrated approach is very much essential that might bring about better treatment outcomes in patients.

PER2 gene and its association with sleep-related disorders: A review.

The natural circadian rhythm in an individual governs the sleep-wake cycle over 24 h. Disruptions in this internal cycle can lead to major health hazards and sleep disorders. Reports suggest that at least 50 % of people worldwide suffer from sleep-related disorders. An increase in screen time, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, is one of the external causative factors for this condition. While many factors govern the circadian clock and its aberrance, the PER2 gene has been strongly linked to chronotypes by many researchers. The current paper provides an extensive examination of key Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms within the PER2 gene and their potential connection to four major types of sleep disorders. This study investigates whether these SNPs play a causative role in sleep disorders or if they are solely associated with these conditions. Additionally, we explore whether these genetic variations exert a lifelong influence on these sleep patterns or if external triggers contribute to the development of sleep disorders. This gene is a crucial regulator of the circadian cycle responsible for the transcription of other clock genes. It regulates a variety of physiological systems such as metabolism, sleep, body temperature, blood pressure, endocrine, immunological, cardiovascular, and renal function. We aim to establish some clarity to the multifaceted nature of this gene, which is often overlooked, and seek to establish the mechanistic role of PER2 gene mutations in sleep disorders. This will improve further understanding, assessment, and treatment of these conditions in future.

TXA2 mediates LPA1-stimulated uterine contraction in late pregnant mouse.

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is known to increase uterine contraction in the estrus cycle and early pregnancy, however, the effect of LPA in late pregnant uterus and its mechanisms are not clear. In the present study, we show the LPA receptor subtypes expressed and the mechanism of LPA-induced contractions in late pregnant mouse uterus. We determined the relative mRNA expression of LPA receptor genes by quantitative PCR and elicited log concentration-response curves to oleoyl-L-α-LPA by performing tension experiments in the presence and absence of nonselective and selective receptor antagonists and inhibitors of the TXA2 pathway. LPA1 was the most highly expressed receptor subtype in the late pregnant mouse uterus and LPA1/2/3 agonist (Oleoyl-L-α LPA) elicited increased contractions in this tissue that had lesser efficacy compared to oxytocin. LPA1/3 antagonist, Ki-16425, and a potent LPA1 antagonist (AM-095) significantly inhibited the LPA-induced contractions. Further, the nonselective COX inhibitor, indomethacin, and potent thromboxane A2 synthase inhibitor, furegrelate significantly impaired LPA-induced contractions. Moreover, selective thromboxane receptor (TP) antagonist, SQ-29548, and Rho kinase inhibitor, Y-27632 almost eliminated LPA-induced uterine contractions. LPA1 stimulation elicits contractions in the late pregnant mouse uterus using the contractile prostanoid, TXA2 and may be targeted to induce labor in uterine dysfunctions/ dystocia.

The impact of coronary calcium score as an addition to myocardial perfusion imaging in altering clinical management (ICCAMPA trial).

INTRODUCTION: AIM: Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a key tool for the identification and risk stratification of patients with coronary artery disease. The use of a coronary calcium score further adds to prognostic data above MPI alone. In this study, our aim was to evaluate the extent to which the use of a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, when co-reported with MPI, impacts changes in clinical management in patients without a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing functional imaging. METHODS: This is a multicenter international study which incorporated a standardized questionnaire to evaluate changes in clinician management after MPI results were given with and without the additional information of a CAC score. Calcium scoring on a SPECT-CT system was performed via a semiquantitative Shemesh score (0-12) with a 0-3 score from the left main, left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries. CT of the chest was read independently, and non-coronary findings were reported alongside the CAC score. RESULTS: A total of 281 patients were enrolled across 3 international centers (Brazil, Australia, New Zealand). Of the 281 patients, 133 (47%) had management altered after the clinician was made aware of the CAC score. The impact of the CAC in changing clinical management was significant, particularly in patients with a negative MPI (P < 0.0001), but also in MPI-positive patients (P = 0.0021). The most common management change was the addition or intensification of statin therapy. CONCLUSION: The addition of the CAC component to MPI yielded significant management changes in nearly half of all patients undergoing MPI for suspected CAD. This trend was observed across all centers in the three countries involved and was particularly evident in patient with a negative MPI.

Fat augments leptin-induced uterine contractions by decreasing JAK2 and BKCa channel expressions in late pregnant rats.

Altered lipid metabolism in obesity causes pregnancy complications in humans and animals. Leptin levels increase in pregnancy, as well as obesity. However, the effect of obesity on uterine leptin receptors and its distal signaling is not clear. The present study aimed to understand the effect of increased fat on leptin signaling in rat uterus. Wistar female rats were fed with an HF diet (40% Fat, 17% Sucrose, 1.25% Cholesterol, 0.75% Cholic acid) for 6 weeks before the mating and during pregnancy. HF diet significantly increased the fat depots, liver weight, serum, and tissue cholesterol levels. It produced fatty degeneration in the liver and caused infiltration of inflammatory cells, cystic endometrial glands, and sub endometrial fibrosis of the uterus. In isometric tension experiments, leptin caused a significant increase in uterine contractions in high fat-fed animals compared to control animals. Analysis of receptor expressions revealed no significant difference between the groups. However, a significant decrease in the JAK2 and BKCaα mRNA expression was observed in the uterus of high fat-fed rats. No change in the BKCaß, eNOS, iNOS, MLCP, and MLCK mRNA expressions was noticed in the HF group compared to the control. The findings of the present study suggest that the contractile response to leptin in the uterus of high fat-fed rats may be attributed to reduced signaling through JAK2 and, lowered expressions of BKCa channel α subunits.

Rheological properties of skeletal muscles in a Duchenne muscular dystrophy murine model before and after autologous cell therapy.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is still an incurable muscle degenerative disease; thus, numerous studies focused on novel therapeutic approaches. However, a simple assay of muscle function restoration remains needed. Herein, we used an oscillatory shear rheometer to evaluate changes in rheological properties of mouse muscles (tibialis anterior, TA) and their restoration upon autologous cell therapy by comparing the viscoelastic properties of normal, diseased and treated muscles. Amplitude sweep tests of muscle samples were performed under 20% compression over a range of shear strain between 0.01 and 2% and frequency of 1 rad/s. The samples were tested in plane-plane geometry and horizontal myofiber alignment. Typical linear viscoelastic region (LVER) patterns were found for each muscle type. For healthy muscles, a broad LVER between shear deformations (γ) of 0.013-0.62% was observed. The LVER of DMD mdx/SCID muscles was found at 0.14% to 0.46% shear deformation, and no shear dependence of storage (G') and loss (G") moduli at γ range changing from 0.034% to 0.26% was found for transplanted tissues. G'LVER and G"LVER moduli of healthy muscles were significantly higher than G'LVER and G"LVER of dystrophic tissues. Additionally, muscle resistance assessment by rheometer indicated that muscles transplanted with stem cells restored elastic properties to levels close to those of healthy muscles. Interestingly, histological staining and rheological data indicate that the loss factor is strongly related to structural changes of examined muscles.

Systematic green synthesis of silver oxide nanoparticles for antimicrobial activity.

In this present research, we succeeded in synthesizing nanostructured silver particles (NS-AgPs) using bio active agent present in the leaf extracts of Cleome gynandra (CG) under green synthesis. While adding silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution in green extracts of CG leaf containing bio compound, the mixture turns from yellow to reddish brown, as a consequence of existence of nanostructured silver particles (NS-AgPs) and later UV instrument is used to obtain the Ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) spectra to confirm existing nanostructured silver particles (NS-AgPs) in aqueous solutions (synthesized sample). To confirm existing functional groups in NS-AgPs, the fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) study is carried throughout this research. The scanning and tunneling of wave like nature of electrons passing through powdered NS-AgPs sample gives Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images respectively, which are carried out to find out the 2-dimensional size and shape distribution of NS-AgPs. Further dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential studies are used to confirm the size and good stability of NS-AgPs respectively. It is evident that NS-AgPs exhibits a strong toxic activity against microorganism and to confirm this mechanism the antibacterial (against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) study is carried out.

Pure and Ce-doped spinel CuFe2O4 photocatalysts for efficient rhodamine B degradation.

Wastewater management is becoming a serious issue worldwide. To enhance the reuse of wastewater, one has to remove toxic pollutants present in it. High amount of dye is present in wastewater, and to remove these dyes is the large scope of this research. Herein, we report production of pure and Ce-doped copper ferrite via hydrothermal route. The synthesized nanoparticles were collected and analyzed by basic characterization techniques. The bandgap energy calculated for pure, 1% Ce, and 2% Ce-doped CuFe2O4 was found to be 2.77, 2.57, and 2.36eV, respectively. Reduction in bandgap was attributed to the doping element. The shape and size of pure and Ce-doped products were investigated using a scanning electron microscope. Agglomeration was observed in the pure copper ferrite sample. In the Ce-doped sample, agglomeration was clearly reduced and the 2% Ce-doped CuFe2O4 sample showed growth of small nanoparticles. They showed complete growth and were arranged in a uniform manner without agglomeration. The surface area of the 2% Ce-CuFe2O4 sample was found to be 65.89 m2/g with 7.02 nm pore diameter. The photocatalytic activity of the prepared material was observed for rhodamine B degradation. The pure and catalyst-added dye was exposed under visible light. The samples were tested for UV. The efficiency obtained for pure dye solution, pristine CuFe2O4-added, and 1% Ce and 2% Ce-doped CuFe2O4-added dye solutions were 48%, 50%, 66%, and 88% within 2 h of irradiation. The 2% Ce-doped CuFe2O4 sample showed excellent photocatalytic activity as the bandgap and morphology were enhanced by doping an appropriate ratio of Ce ions.

Studies on the spectrometric analysis of metallic silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using Basella alba leaf for the antibacterial activities.

In this present investigation, an aqueous Basella alba leaves extract was used to synthesize AgNPs. The green synthesis approach is carried out in our work due to non-toxic, less cost, and ecofriendly methods. FTIR spectra are used to confirm the biomolecules present in B.alba leaves extract along with AgNPs and these compounds are responsible for Ag particle from micro to nanostructure. The FCC structure and crystalline nature of the AgNPs are analyzed with the help of XRD and TEM techniques respectively. DLS and Zeta potential techniques are carried out to find the size and stability of AgNPs respectively and UV is used to verify the presence of AgNPs in synthesized samples employing SPR peaks around 435 nm. The antioxidant studies expose eminent scavenging activity which ranges from 13.71% to maximum 67.88%. Green synthesized AgNPs possess well organized biological activities concerning antioxidant and antibacterial, which can be used in some biologically applications.

Repurposing of glycine transport inhibitors for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria.

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare disease in which patients experience severe light sensitivity. It is caused by a deficiency of ferrochelatase (FECH), the last enzyme in heme biosynthesis (HBS). The lack of FECH causes accumulation of its photoreactive substrate protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) in patients' erythrocytes. Here, we explored an approach for the treatment of EPP by decreasing PPIX synthesis using small-molecule inhibitors directed to factors in the HBS pathway. We generated a FECH-knockout clone from K562 erythroleukemia cells, which accumulates PPIX and undergoes oxidative stress upon light exposure. We used these matched cell lines to screen a set of publicly available inhibitors of factors in the HBS pathway. Inhibitors of the glycine transporters GlyT1 and GlyT2 lowered levels of PPIX and markers of oxidative stress selectively in K56211B4 cells, and in primary erythroid cultures from an EPP patient. Our findings open the door to investigation of glycine transport inhibitors for HBS disorders.

Batch adsorption studies on surface tailored chitosan/orange peel hydrogel composite for the removal of Cr(VI) and Cu(II) ions from synthetic wastewater.

Elimination of heavy metals from wastewater has been a significant process to improve the aquatic source's quality. Various materials act as very effective adsorbents to remove heavy metals, which cause toxicity to plants and all other living organisms. Thus, the present work focuses on removing heavy metals chromium (Cr) and copper (Cu) ions containing wastewater using biodegradable and cost-effective chitosan-based hydrogel composite. The composite was prepared via chemical cross-linking of radical chitosan with polyacrylamide and N,N'-Methylene bisacrylamide and blended with orange peel. The synthesis of the adsorbent has been confirmed by using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscopy - Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDAX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The adsorption power of the composite of metal ions at different time, pH, adsorbent dosages, different metal ion concentrations were analyzed by using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The results concluded that the optimum pH for Cr(VI) and Cu (II) were 4 and 5, contact time: 360 min, adsorbent dosage: 4 g, and initial metal ion concentration: 100 mg/L for each metal ions. The adsorption isotherm models follow the Freundlich model and pseudo-second-order kinetics. From the results, the adsorption capacity was observed to be 80.43% for Cr(VI) and 82.47% for Cu(II) ions, respectively.

Leptin receptor stimulation in late pregnant mouse uterine tissue inhibits spontaneous contractions by increasing NO and cGMP.

The adipokine, leptin exerts inhibitory effect on both spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractions in myometrium. However, the mechanisms involved in leptin-induced effect are not clear. In the present study, we studied the altered characteristics of uterine contractions in the presence of leptin and the possible mechanisms of its effect in late pregnant (18.5 day) mouse uterus. We conducted functional, biochemical and molecular biology studies to demonstrate the mechanism of leptin-induced response. Leptin exerted an inhibitory response (Emax 40.5 ± 3.99%) on basal uterine contractions. The extent of inhibition was less than that obtained with known uterine relaxants, salbutamol (Emax103 ± 8.66%) and BRL-37344 (Emax 84.79 ± 8.12%). Leptin-induced uterine response was inhibited by leptin receptor antagonist SHLA and JAK-STAT pathway inhibitor, AG-490. The relaxant response was also subdued by NO-cGMP-PK-G pathway blockers L-NAME, 1400W, ODQ and KT-5823. Further, leptin enhanced the levels of NO and cGMP in uterine tissues. Also, SHLA, AG-490 and a combination of 1400 W and L-NAME prevented leptin-induced increase in NO. Similar effect was observed on cGMP levels in presence of leptin and SHLA. However, leptin did not influence CaCl2-induced response in potassium-depolarized tissues. We also detected leptin receptor protein in late pregnant mouse uterus located in endometrial luminal epithelium and myometrial layers. Real-time PCR studies revealed significantly higher expression of short forms of the receptor (ObRa and ObRc) in comparison to the long form (ObRb). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that leptin inhibits mouse uterine contraction by stimulating short forms of the leptin receptors and activating NO pathway in a JAK-STAT-dependent manner.

Co-addition of humic substances and humic acids with urea enhances foliar nitrogen use efficiency in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.).

Humic substances (HS) and humic acids (HA) are proven to enhance nutrient uptake and growth in plants. Foliar application of urea combined with HS and HA offers an alternative strategy to increase nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). The objective of this study was to understand the effects of foliar application of HA and HS along with urea on NUE and response of different biometric, biochemical and physiological traits of sugarcane with respect to cultivar, mode of foliar application, geographic location and intervals of foliar application. To study this, two different independent Experiments were conducted in green house facilities at two different agro-climatic zones (USA and Brazil) using two different predominant varieties, modes and intervals of foliar applications. The three different foliar applications used in this study were (1) urea (U), (2) mixture of urea and HS (U+HS) and (3) HA (U+HA). In both Experiments, 15N (nitrogen isotope) recovery or NUE was higher in U+HS followed by U+HA. However, magnitude of NUE changed according to the differences in two Experiments. Results showed that foliar application of U+HS and U+HA was rapidly absorbed and stored in the form of protein and starch. Also induced changes in photosynthesis, intrinsic water use efficiency, protein, total soluble sugars and starch signifying a synergistic effect of U+HS and U+HA on carbon and nitrogen metabolism. These results showed promising use of HS and HA with urea to improve NUE in sugarcane compared to using the urea alone. Simultaneously, mode, quantity, and interval of foliar application should be standardized based on the geographic locations and varieties to optimize the NUE.

Is International Travel an Emerging Issue on Transmission of Beijing Lineage Mycobacterium tuberculosis?

Mycobacterium tuberculosis belonging to Beijing sublineage (BL) is associated with high tuberculosis (TB) transmission, multidrug resistance, and adverse treatment outcomes. Sri Lanka experiences an increase in the number of travellers/workers to and from high TB-burden countries, and there is risk of getting BL strains imported into the country. In this context, a cohort study was conducted to assess the prevalence of BL strains among pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients in the Kandy district of Sri Lanka (a popular tourist destination) and its association with patients' sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The study population included sputum smear-positive PTB patients diagnosed from February 2018-July 2019. Fresh sputum samples were collected for culturing and conducted polymerase chain reaction using BL-specific primers. Among the 101 patients recruited, presence of BL strains could be ascertained in 94 patients of which 24 (26%; 95% CI: 18%-35%) had BL strains. Prevalence of BL strains was higher among those with high sputum smear grades (2+ and 3+) (P < 0.05) and those who had travelled abroad (P < 0.05). The prevalence was also higher among young people (aged <35 years). Treatment success rates were similar in patients with (83%) and without BL strains (83% vs. 81%; P value = 0.8375). The prevalence of BL strains in Kandy, Sri Lanka, was high compared to previously reported figures in Sri Lanka, and the percentage drives closer to the countries in South East Asia. International travel raises itself as an emerging issue in BL transmission urging the need of policies and practices in immigration/emigration strategies. The study findings have the potential to alter the TB epidemiology in the country and might represent the situation in other underexplored countries as well. Therefore, it is important to monitor the trends and factors related to the prevalence of Beijing strains globally and make decisions as a whole.

Fractional carbon dioxide laser for facial scarring due to windscreen glass shatter injury.

BACKGROUND: Facial injuries due to flying windscreen glass pieces are common in road accident and require surgical intervention by plastic surgeons to debride, suture, and dress the injuries. Posthealing patients visit dermatologists for further treatment of residual scar tissue. Interestingly, tiny papules or small nodular scars seen on otherwise level background which persists for beyond 3 months (scar modeling time) may actually harbor small fragments of glass. Such lesions can only be treated by fractional CO2 therapy. METHODS: Two patients who had papules and small nodular lesions on the accident scarred areas were subjected to fractional CO2 laser (ultraPulse, Lumenis)with moderate fluence and high density, once and observed over a period of 12 weeks. RESULTS: On targeting the papules and small nodules, tiny particles of glass appeared out of the broken lesions. DISCUSSION: Irrespective of the surgery done on accident victims involving windshield glass injuries, fractional CO2 may be considered at a later stage, especially with presence of papules interspersed in the area of facial scars.