ABSTRACT Introduction: Approximately 55.52% of the Indian population had been fully vaccinated by Jan. 2022, since its first roll out on January 16, 2021. A few concerns were raised concerning the Covishield vaccination related to thrombotic thrombocytopenia. Apheresis-derived platelet concentrates are frequently required in a plethora of clinical situations and post-vaccination decrement of platelet counts might lead to increased deferral of the plateletpheresis donors. Objectives. The aim of the study was to discover the effect of the Covishield vaccination on deferral rates of plateletpheresis donors. Methods: Blood samples were collected from the potential platelet donors for the completion of the standard questionnaire for the complete blood count. The data collected were tabulated in the MS Excel spreadsheet and the biostatistical analysis was performed with the SPSS v23. A p-value of < 0.05 was taken as significant. We compared this data with age-and sex-matched controls. Results: The mean age of cases and controls was 29.69 ± 8.57 and 30.15 ± 7.11, respectively. There was a significant difference in platelet counts of cases (188496.35 ± 72065.66/cumm) and controls (269524.50 ± 53981.60/cumm). Furthermore, donors who received one dose had higher platelet counts of 248676.47 ± 80075.24/cumm than those who received both doses of vaccine (179970.83 ± 66773.73/cumm). The difference in deferral rates between the two groups was remarkable (34.7% vs. 0.9%, with the p-value < 0.001). Conclusion: Vaccination certainly increased the deferral rates of plateletpheresis donors due to low platelet counts. Average platelet counts were low in fully vaccinated individuals, however, the platelets returned to normal counts as the post-vaccination days progressed.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Determinar la proporción de Salmonella enterica en muestras fecales de cerdos vivos con presunta salmonelosis analizadas en la unidad de diagnóstico de la Universidad de Antioquia (Colombia) entre el 2019 y el 2021, así como examinar los serotipos y los patrones de resistencia a los antimicrobianos. Métodos. Se trata de un estudio transversal de laboratorio sobre datos ordinarios de muestras fecales provenientes de granjas porcinas de las nueve subregiones del departamento de Antioquia (Colombia). La detección de Salmonella spp. en la universidad se realiza mediante el enriquecimiento, el cultivo selectivo y la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Se identificaron los serotipos con el esquema de Kauffmann-White y se examinaron las cepas aisladas para determinar la susceptibilidad antimicrobiana mediante microdilución en caldo. Resultados. De las 653 muestras analizadas, 149 (23%) dieron un resultado positivo para S. enterica. Se identificaron nueve serotipos. Los más comunes fueron Salmonella typhimurium (56%) y su variante monofásica (35%). La resistencia a la ampicilina fue la observada con mayor frecuencia (70%), seguida de la resistencia al ciprofloxacino (55%) y al sulfametoxazol-trimetoprima (52%). Ninguna cepa aislada fue resistente a la amikacina y la gentamicina. Se observó resistencia a múltiples fármacos (resistencia a tres o más clases de antibióticos) en 61 cepas (44%). La resistencia a múltiples fármacos fue más elevada en el caso de S. typhimurium (57%) en comparación con los otros serotipos. Se asoció el serotipo con la resistencia a múltiples fármacos (p = 0,01), a diferencia de la edad del cerdo y la subregión. Conclusiones. La proporción de Salmonella spp. y los elevados niveles asociados de resistencia a múltiples fármacos son preocupantes y pueden ser un indicativo de uso irracional de antimicrobianos y malas prácticas de gestión en los sistemas de producción porcina de la región. Es necesario reforzar la vigilancia para dar seguimiento y mejorar las prácticas de gestión agropecuaria y el uso de antimicrobianos en las granjas en Colombia.

RESUMO Objetivos. Determinar a proporção de Salmonella enterica em amostras de fezes de suínos vivos com suspeita de salmonelose analisadas na unidade de diagnóstico da Universidade de Antioquia, Colômbia, entre 2019 e 2021, e examinar seus sorotipos e padrões de resistência a antimicrobianos. Métodos. Estudo transversal, de base laboratorial, utilizando dados de rotina de amostras de fezes recebidas de suinocultores em todas as nove sub-regiões do estado de Antioquia, Colômbia. A detecção de Salmonella spp. na Universidade é feita por enriquecimento, cultura seletiva e reação em cadeia da polimerase. Os sorotipos foram identificados usando o esquema de Kauffmann-White, e os isolados foram testados quanto à suscetibilidade aos antimicrobianos pelo método de microdiluição em caldo. Resultados. Das 653 amostras testadas, 149 (23%) foram positivas para S. enterica. Foram identificados nove sorotipos. Os mais comuns foram Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) e sua variante monofásica (35%). A resistência à ampicilina (70%) foi observada com maior frequência, seguida pela resistência ao ciprofloxacino (55%) e ao sulfametoxazol/trimetoprima (52%). Nenhum isolado apresentou resistência à amicacina ou gentamicina. Multirresistência (resistência a ≥ 3 classes de antibióticos) foi observada em 61 isolados (44%). A multirresistência foi mais comum em S. Typhimurium (57%), em comparação aos outros sorotipos. Foi constatada associação da multirresistência com sorotipos (p = 0,01), mas não com idade do suíno ou sub-região. Conclusões. A proporção de Salmonella spp. e os níveis elevados associados de multirresistência a antimicrobianos aqui constatados são preocupantes, e podem indicar uso irracional de antimicrobianos e práticas inadequadas de manejo nos sistemas de suinocultura da região. É preciso fortalecer a vigilância para monitorar e melhorar as práticas de manejo agrícola e o uso de antimicrobianos em fazendas na Colômbia.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To determine the proportion of Salmonella enterica in fecal samples of live pigs with suspected salmonellosis analyzed at the diagnostic unit of the University of Antioquia, Colombia between 2019 and 2021, and examine the serotypes and antimicrobial resistance patterns. Methods. This was a laboratory-based cross-sectional study of routine data on fecal samples received from pig farms in all nine subregions of Antioquia state, Colombia. Salmonella spp. detection at the university is done using enrichment, selective culture, and polymerase chain reaction. Serotypes were identified using the Kauffmann–White scheme and isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using broth microdilution. Results. Of 653 samples tested, 149 (23%) were positive for S. enterica. Nine serotypes were identified. The most common were Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) and its monophasic variant (35%). Resistance to ampicillin (70%) was most frequently observed, followed by ciprofloxacin (55%), and sulfamethoxazole–trimethoprim (52%). No isolates were resistant to amikacin and gentamicin. Multidrug resistance (resistance to ≥ 3 classes of antibiotics) was observed in 61 (44%) isolates. Multidrug resistance was highest in S. Typhimurium (57%) compared with the other serotypes. Serotype was associated with multidrug resistance (p = 0.01), but age of the pig and sub-region were not. Conclusions. The proportion of Salmonella spp. and the associated high levels of multidrug resistance are of concern and may indicate irrational use of antimicrobials and poor management practices in pig production systems in the region. Strengthened surveillance is needed to monitor and improve farm management practices and the use of antimicrobials in farms in Colombia.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia y resistencia a los antimicrobianos de Escherichia coli y Salmonella spp. en muestras de piensos para animales tomadas entre el 2018 y el 2021 en Colombia. Métodos. Se trata de un estudio transversal realizado en el laboratorio a partir de los datos regulares del programa de inspección, vigilancia y control de alimentos para animales del Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario. Se procesaron muestras de alimentos utilizados en la cría de cerdos, aves de corral, cánidos, félidos, lepóridos, peces y equinos con el fin de detectar E. coli y Salmonella spp. por medio de métodos de enriquecimiento y cultivo selectivo. Se analizó la sensibilidad a los antimicrobianos de las cepas aisladas mediante microdilución automatizada. Resultados. De 1748 muestras de alimentos analizadas, 83 (4,7%) resultaron positivas para E. coli y 66 (3,8%) para Salmonella spp. La presencia de E. coli y Salmonella spp. fue mayor en los alimentos para aves de corral (6,4% y 5,5%) y cerdos (6,1% y 4,3%). Se realizaron pruebas de resistencia a los antimicrobianos en 27 (33%) cepas de E. coli y 26 (39%) de Salmonella. En las cepas de E. coli, se observó una mayor resistencia a la ampicilina (44,5%), seguida de la resistencia a la cefazolina (33,3%), la ciprofloxacina (29,6%), la ampicilina/sulbactam (26%) y la ceftriaxona (11,1%). En el caso de las cepas de Salmonella spp., los niveles de resistencia más elevados fueron para la cefazolina (7,7%) y piperacilina/tazobactam (7,7%). Conclusiones. Este es el primer estudio realizado en Colombia en el que se informa sobre la prevalencia y la resistencia a los antimicrobianos de E. coli y Salmonella spp. en muestras de alimentos para animales. Sus resultados establecen una línea de base para una zona geográfica mucho mayor dentro de Colombia. Se subraya la necesidad de integrar la vigilancia de la resistencia a los antimicrobianos en los alimentos para animales debido a la aparición de bacterias resistentes en esta importante etapa de la cadena de suministro.

RESUMO Objetivo. Determinar a prevalência e a resistência a antimicrobianos de Escherichia coli e Salmonela spp. em amostras de ração animal coletadas entre 2018 e 2021 na Colômbia. Métodos. Estudo transversal de base laboratorial, usando dados de rotina do programa de inspeção, vigilância e controle de ração animal do Instituto Colombiano de Agricultura. Amostras de ração animal para as espécies suína, avícola, canina, felina, leporina, piscina e equina foram processadas para detecção de E. coli e Salmonella spp., usando métodos de enriquecimento e cultura seletiva. Os isolados foram testados quanto à suscetibilidade a antimicrobianos usando um método automatizado de microdiluição. Resultados. Das 1.748 amostras de ração animal analisadas, 83 (4,7%) foram positivas para E. coli e 66 (3,8%) para Salmonella spp. A presença de E. coli e Salmonella spp. foi maior em rações para aves (6,4% e 5,5%) e suínos (6,1% e 4,3%). O teste de resistência a antimicrobianos foi realizado em 27 (33%) isolados de E. coli e 26 (39%) isolados de Salmonella. Em E. coli, a resistência observada com maior frequência foi à ampicilina (44,5%), seguida da cefazolina (33,3%), ciprofloxacino (29,6%), ampicilina/sulbactam (26%) e ceftriaxona (11,1%). Os maiores níveis de resistência em isolados de Salmonella spp. foram contra cefazolina (7,7%) e piperacilina/tazobactam (7,7%). Conclusões. Este é o primeiro estudo da Colômbia a notificar a prevalência e resistência a antimicrobianos de E. coli e Salmonella spp. em amostras de ração animal. Os resultados estabelecem uma linha de base com ampla distribuição geográfica na Colômbia. Destaca-se a necessidade de integrar a vigilância da resistência a antimicrobianos na ração animal, devido ao surgimento de bactérias resistentes nesta importante etapa da cadeia de abastecimento.

ABSTRACT Objective. To determine the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. in animal feed samples collected between 2018 and 2021 in Colombia. Methods. This was a laboratory-based cross-sectional study using routine data from the program for inspection, surveillance, and control of animal feed at the Colombian Agriculture Institute. Samples of animal feed for swine, poultry, canine, feline, leporine, piscine, and equine species were processed for detection of E. coli and Salmonella spp. using enrichment and selective culture methods. Isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using an automated microdilution method. Results. Of 1 748 animal feed samples analyzed, 83 (4.7%) were positive for E. coli and 66 (3.8%) for Salmonella spp. The presence of E. coli and Salmonella spp. was highest in feed for poultry (6.4% and 5.5%) and swine (6.1% and 4.3%). Antimicrobial resistance testing was performed in 27 (33%) E. coli isolates and 26 (39%) Salmonella isolates. Among E. coli, resistance was most frequently observed to ampicillin (44.5%) followed by cefazolin (33.3%), ciprofloxacin (29.6%), ampicillin/sulbactam (26%), and ceftriaxone (11.1%). The highest resistance levels in Salmonella spp. isolates were against cefazolin (7.7%) and piperacillin/tazobactam (7.7%). Conclusions. This is the first study from Colombia reporting on the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of E. coli and Salmonella spp. in animal feed samples. Its results establish a baseline over a wide geographical distribution in Colombia. It highlights the need to integrate antimicrobial resistance surveillance in animal feed due to the emergence of resistant bacteria in this important stage of the supply chain.

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to propose an algorithm for finding a common element of the set of fixed points of relatively nonexpansive mapping and the set of solutions of split inclusion problem with a way of selecting the stepsize without prior knowledge of the operator norm in the framework of Banach spaces. Then, the main result is used to the common fixed point problems of a family of relatively nonexpansive mappings and split equilibrium problem. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the main result.

Resumen El propósito de este artículo es proponer un algoritmo para encontrar un elemento común del conjunto de puntos fijos de aplicaciones relativamente no-expansivas y el conjunto de soluciones de problemas de inclusión escindidos con una manera de seleccionar el tamaño del paso sin conocimiento previo de la norma del operador en el contexto de espacios de Banach. Luego, el resultado principal se usa para los problemas de punto fijo común de una familia de aplicaciones relativamente no expansivas y el problemas del equilibrio escindido. Finalmente, se entrega un ejemplo numérico para ilustrar el resultado principal.

BACKGROUND: Logistics is an integral component for success of an organisation. So correct decision on express logistics procurement plays a critical role in success in delivering right product at right place and right time. Procurement of express logistics service is not very straight forward, instead it requires evaluation of multiple factors OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to create a framework of influencing factor on express logistics buying decision METHOD: For the study, researchers has adopted secondary research along with primary research with group of 14 subject matter experts in field of Indian logistics sector. A group of experts comprises of senior managers, consultants and academicians with deep understanding of subject. We have used ISM (Interpretive Structural Modelling) and Cross Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC) to drive conceptual framework for logistics buying decision RESULTS: Framework shows that the decision making in logistics procurement should be highly driven by factors like network reach of Logistics Service Provider (LSP), technology followed by information sharing and strategic partnership. While service quality and cost of logistics remains as frontend factors in logistics procurement decision CONCLUSION: The model output clearly suggests that final objective in buying process of express logistics is driven towards lower cost and improved service level, but it is driven by factors which directly adds value in supply chain like time to market and reverse logistics, technology and reach CONTRIBUTION: The model provides a framework for practitioners, which can enable them in decision making process of logistics procurement

Abstract Background: Acute postoperative pain is associated with poor quality of recovery after surgery. Perioperative use of intravenous lignocaine or dexmedetomidine have demonstrated better pain control, early return of bowel function, and effects on quality of recovery. Methods: Ninety-six women planned for elective robotic abdominal hysterectomy were randomized into four groups. Groups received lignocaine infusion (1.5 mg.kg−1 loading, 2 mg.kg−1.h−1 infusion) (Group I), dexmedetomidine infusion (1 µg.kg−1 loading, 0.6 µg.kg−1.h−1 infusion) (Group 2), lidocaine (1.5 mg.kg−1 loading, 2 mg.kg−1.h−1 infusion), and dexmedetomidine infusions (1 µg.kg−1 loading, 0.5 µg.kg−1.h−1 infusion) (Group 3), and normal saline 10 mL loading, 1 mL.kg−1.h−1 infusion) (Group 4). Primary outcome was visual analogue pain scores at 1, 2, 4, 12, and 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative fentanyl requirement, time of return of bowel sounds and flatus, QoR15 score on day 1, 2, and discharge. Results The VAS was significantly lower in Groups 2 and 3 compared to Groups 1 and 4. Total postoperative fentanyl consumption in the first 24 hours was 256.25 ± 16.36 mcg (Group 1), 177.71 ± 16.81 mcg (Group 2), 114.17 ± 16.19 mcg (Group 3), and 304.42 ± 31.26 mcg (Group 4), respectively. Time to return of bowel sounds and passage of flatus was significantly shorter in Groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.01). QoR15 scores after surgery were higher in Group 3 compared to Groups 1, 2, and 4, (p < 0.01) respectively. Conclusion: Combined infusion of lignocaine and dexmedetomidine significantly decreased postoperative pain, fentanyl consumption, and improved quality of recovery score after surgery in patients undergoing Robotic abdominal hysterectomy.

Resumo Contexto: A Doença inflamatória intestinal (DII) é uma doença inflamatória crônica que afeta o trato gastrointestinal. A etiologia desta condição alarmante é multifatorial. Uma tendência recentemente crescente na DII é notada em nosso país. Objetivo: O presente estudo foi desenhado com o objetivo principal de avaliar a incidência e identificar os fatores de risco associados, incluindo demográficos, áreas geográficas e padrões alimentares da população com DII do Norte de Karnataka viz. Cidade de Hubli-Dharwad. Metodos: Uma investigação retrospectiva foi realizada em uma coorte de 226 pacientes com diagnóstico de DII e que foram admitidos entre 2015 e 2019 no departamento de gastroenterologia, SDMCMS&H. O diagnóstico de DII foi feito com base em achados clínicos, radiológicos, endoscópicos e histopatológicos. Os pacientes foram categorizados em DII e aqueles que apresentam sintomas sugestivos de DII, mas não se enquadraram nos critérios diagnósticos em grupos sem DII. Os dados sobre a demografia, padrões de dieta e parâmetros laboratoriais foram registrados. Resultados: Entre os 226 pacientes inscritos neste estudo entre 2015-2019, DII foi confirmada em 54 [RCUI - 44 (19,46%), DC - 10 (4,42%)] com distribuição variada da doença entre diferentes faixas etárias e ambos os sexos, colite ulcerativa (RCUI) [M: F: 28 (63,6%):16 (36,4%)] e doença de Crohn (DC) [M: F: 07 (70,0%): 03 (30,0%)]. O padrão alimentar e outros hábitos não tiveram contribuição significativa para a doença e seus sintomas. Urbanos (U) e rurais (R) dividiram-se em RCUI [U: R: 32 (72,7%):12 (27,3%)], DC [07 (70,0%): 03 (30,0%)]. Conclusão A incidência de DII foi elevada para RCUI em relação a DC. A incidência de DII entre os pacientes com sintomas sugestivos de DIB é de 19,46% com a RCUI sendo maior em relação a DC (4,42%). Foram observados padrões predominantes masculinos de incidência de DII. Ano a ano foi observada tendência crescente de carga da doença. O padrão dietético não tem correlação direta com a prevalência e incidências da DII.

ABSTRACT Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The etiology of this alarming condition is multifactorial. A Recently increasing trend in IBD is noted in our country. Objective: The present study was designed with the main objective to assess the incidence and to identify the associated risk factors including demographic, geographical areas, and dietary patterns of IBD population of Northern of Karnataka viz. Hubli-Dharwad city. Methods: A retrospective investigation was conducted on a cohort of 226 patients with a working diagnosis of IBD and those who were admitted between 2015 to 2019 the department of gastroenterology, SDMCMS&H. The diagnosis of IBD was made based on clinical, radiological, endoscopic, and histopathologic findings. The patients were categorized into IBD and those who have symptoms suggestive of IBD but did not fit into the diagnostic criteria into, non-IBD groups. The data about of on demography, diet patterns, and laboratory parameters were recorded. Results: Among 226 patients enrolled in this study 2015-2019, IBD was confirmed in 54 Ulcerative colitis - 44 (19.46%), Crohn’s disease - 10 (4.42%) patients with varying distribution of disease among different age groups and both genders, Ulcerative colitis (UC) [M: F: 28 (63.6%): 16 (36.4%)] and Crohn’s disease (CD) [M: F: 07 (70.0%):03 (30.0%)]. Dietary pattern and other habitats had no significant contribution to illness and its symptoms. Urban (U) and Rural (R) divide was UC [U: R: 32 (72.7%): 12 (27.3%)], CD [U:R:07(70.0%):03(30.0%)] maintained. Conclusion Incidence of IBD was high with UC as compared to CD. The incidence of IBD among patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of IBD is 19.46% with UC being major as compared to CD (4.42%). Male predominant patterns of IBD incidences were noted. Year by year increasing trend in disease burden was observed. The Dietary pattern has no direct correlation with IBD disease prevalence and incidences.

RESUMO A estimativa de fluxo descarga é um componente essencial do planejamento e da tomada de decisões. Está altamente correlacionado com muitas atividades de desenvolvimento envolvendo recursos hídricos. O estudo do transporte de sedimentos nos rios nos ajudará a desenvolver políticas e planos de conservação do solo, controle de enchentes, irrigação, navegação e problemas de biodiversidade aquática. Usando modelos baseados em dados, como Redes Neurais Artificiais (ANNs), a modelagem de vazão e do transporte de sedimentos é frequentemente adotada devido à sua aplicabilidade e capacidade de resolução de problemas. Este estudo utilizou três algoritmos de treinamento como Gradiente Conjugado Escalonado (SCG), Regularização Bayesiana (BR) e Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) para simular o fluxo de vazão e a concentração de sedimentos suspensos (SSC). Depois de otimizar o melhor algoritmo de treinamento baseado nos parâmetros de eficiência do modelo, o modelo LM-ANN foi utilizado para prever o fluxo vazão por dois anos e a modelagem de sedimentos suspensos foi validada com a ajuda de dados observados. O resultado mostrou que os resultados simulados acompanharam o fluxo de vazão, bem como o SSC com a precisão desejada com base nos parâmetros de eficiência do modelo, como coeficiente de determinação (R2), Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) e Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD). Os resultados do estudo revelam que no fluxo de córregos a concentração de sedimentos suspensos é significativamente afetada pelo material de rocha base, geleiras cobertas por detritos e gelo carregado de detritos não consolidados. O transporte dos sedimentos é alto na bacia de Alaknanda em comparação com as outras bacias e os estudos anteriores. Isso pode acontecer devido às severas atividades antropogênicas na bacia circundante.

ABSTRACT The estimation of stream discharge is an essential component of planning and decision-making. It is highly correlated with many development activities involving water resources. The study of transportation of sediments in the rivers will help us to develop policies and plans for soil conservation, flood control, irrigation, navigation, and aquatic biodiversity problems. Using data-driven models such as Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), modeling of streamflow and sediment transport is frequently adopted due to their applicability and problem-solving ability. This study has used three training algorithms such as Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG), Bayesian Regularization (BR), and Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) to simulate the streamflow and Suspended Sediments Concentration (SSC). After optimizing the best training algorithm based on the model efficiency parameters, L-M based-ANN model has been used to predict streamflow for two years and the modeling of suspended sediments was validated with the help of observed data. The result shows that the simulated results tracked the streamflow as well as SSC with the desired accuracy based on the model efficiency parameters such as coefficient of Determination (R2), Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD). The study's outcomes reveal that in the streamflow the concentration of suspended sediments is significantly affected by the base rock material, glaciers covered by debris, and moraine-laden ice. The transportation of the sediments is high in the Alaknanda basin as compared to the other basins and the previous studies. This might happen due to the severe anthropogenic activities in the surrounding basin.

Abstract Coarctation of the aorta is a rare congenital abnormality, with an incidence of 6-8% of all congenital heart problems. It is usually diagnosed in childhood during routine clinical examination and adults mostly present with hypertension. Various investigations like transthoracic echocardiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance angiography can help with diagnosis. Prognosis depends on age at presentation and the severity of coarctation. Treatment options available are open and endovascular repair. Extra-anatomical bypass is the preferred option in cases with unfavorable anatomy. Long term follow up is required post repair due to risk of restenosis and aneurysm formation. Here is a case in which a young female presented with hypertension, was diagnosed with coarctation of the aorta, and was treated a left subclavian artery to descending thoracic aorta bypass. Her postoperative course was uneventful and she had improvement in hypertension.

Resumo A coarctação da aorta é uma anomalia congênita rara, com incidência de 6-8% entre todos os problemas cardíacos congênitos. É geralmente diagnosticada na infância durante o exame clínico de rotina, e os adultos normalmente apresentam hipertensão. Diversas investigações, como ecocardiografia transtorácica, tomografia computadorizada e angiorressonância magnética, podem auxiliar no diagnóstico. O prognóstico depende da idade na apresentação e da gravidade da coarctação. As opções de tratamento disponíveis são o reparo aberto e o reparo endovascular. O bypass extra-anatômico é a opção preferida em caso de anatomia desfavorável. O acompanhamento de longo prazo é necessário após o reparo devido ao risco de reestenose e formação de aneurisma. Descrevemos o caso de uma jovem do sexo feminino que apresentou hipertensão, a qual foi diagnosticada como coarctação da aorta. Foi realizada derivação da artéria subclávia esquerda para a aorta torácica descendente. O pós-operatório transcorreu sem intercorrências, e a paciente apresentou melhora da hipertensão.

RESUMO Objetivo Estudar o papel da injeção epidural de esteroides (IEE) em pacientes com hérnia de disco lombar (HDL) e estenose do canal lombar (ECL). As IEEs são usadas regularmente para dar suporte ao tratamento não cirúrgico da dor lombar e nossa impressão empírica é que uma proporção considerável de pacientes relata alívio substancial da dor depois da IEE. Métodos Foram incluídos mil pacientes consecutivos (645 pacientes com HDL e 355 pacientes com ECL) que precisaram de IEE de janeiro a agosto de 2018. Todos receberam a mesmo IEE preparada com triamcinolona (80 mg), bupivacaína (0,25% 4 ml) e solução salina normal (4 ml). Os pacientes foram avaliados pela Escala de Estimativa Numérica (NRS, Numeric Rating Scale) imediatamente, 7 dias e 3 meses depois. Resultados O escore médio de dor nas costas da NRS no grupo HDL foi reduzida de 5 (intervalo: 4-8) para 4 (intervalo: 2-7) imediatamente após a injeção, para 2 (intervalo: 1-7) após 7 dias e para 2 (intervalo: 1-7) após 3 meses (valor de p < 0,001). O escore médio de dor nas costas do NRS do grupo ECL foi reduzida de 5 (intervalo: 4-8) para 4 (intervalo: 2-7) imediatamente após a injeção, para 2 (intervalo: 1-7) após 7 dias e para 3 (intervalo: 1- 7) após 3 meses (valor de p <0,001). O escore médio de dor na perna da NRS do grupo HDL foi reduzida de 5 (intervalo: 4-9) para 3 (intervalo: 3-7) imediatamente após a injeção, para 1 (intervalo: 1-6) após 7 dias e para 2 (intervalo: 1-7) após 3 meses (valor de p < 0,001). O escore médio de dor na perna da NRS do grupo ECL foi reduzida de 5 (intervalo: 4-9) para 4 (intervalo: 3-7) imediatamente após a injeção, para 3 (intervalo: 1-7) após 7 dias e para 2 (intervalo 1-6) após 3 meses (valor de p < 0,001). Conclusão A IEE causa melhora estatisticamente significativa das dores nas costas e nas pernas em pacientes com HDL e ECL. No entanto, a eficácia a curto e médio prazo da IEE na ECL foi menor do que a da HDL. Nível de evidência IV; Estudo prospectivo baseado em hospital.

ABSTRACT Objective To study the role of epidural steroid injection (ESI) in patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and lumbar canal stenosis (LCS). ESIs are regularly used to support non-operative treatment for LBP, and our anecdotal impression is that a considerable proportion of patients report substantial pain relief after ESI. Methods One thousand consecutive patients (645 patients with LDH and 355 patients with LCS) who required ESI from January-August 2018 were included. All were given the same ESI, prepared with triamcinolone (80 mg), bupivacaine (0.25%, 4 ml) and normal saline (4 ml). Patients were evaluated using the numerical rating scale (NRS) immediately after the injection, after 7 days, and after 3 months. Results The mean NRS back-pain score of the LDH-group was reduced from 5 (range: 4-8) to 4 (range: 2-7) immediately after injection, 2 (range: 1-7) after 7 days and 2 (range: 1-7) after 3 months (p-value<0.001). The mean NRS back-pain score of the LCS-group was reduced from 5 (range: 4-8) to 4 (range: 2-7) immediately after injection, 2 (range: 1-7) after 7 days and 3 (range: 1-7) after 3 months (p-value <0.001). The mean NRS leg-pain score of the LDH group was reduced from 5 (range: 4-9) to 3 (range: 3-7) immediately after injection, 1 (range: 1-6) after 7 days and 2 (range: 1-7) after 3 months (p-value <0.001). The mean NRS leg-pain score of the LCS group was reduced from 5 (range: 4-9) to 4 (range: 3-7) immediately after injection, 3 (range: 1-7) after 7 days and 2 (range 1-6) after 3 months (p-value <0.001). Conclusion ESI causes statistically significant improvement in back and leg pain in patients with LDH and LCS. However, the short and medium-term efficacy of ESI in the LCS group was lower than in the LDH group. Level of evidence IV; Prospective hospital-based study.

RESUMEN Objetivo Estudiar el papel de la inyección epidural de esteroides (IEE) en pacientes con hernia de disco lumbar (HDL) y estenosis del canal lumbar (ECL). Las IEE se utilizan regularmente para respaldar el tratamiento no quirúrgico del dolor lumbar y nuestra impresión empírica es que una proporción considerable de pacientes informa alivio sustancial del dolor después de la IEE. Métodos Se incluyeron mil pacientes consecutivos (645 pacientes con HDL y 355 pacientes con ECL) que necesitaron IEE de enero a agosto de 2018. A todos se les administró la misma IEE preparada con triamcinolona (80 mg), bupivacaina (0,25% 4 ml) y solución salina normal (4 ml). Los pacientes fueron evaluados usando una Escala de Valoración Numérica (NRS, Numeric Rating Scale) inmediatamente, 7 días y de 3 meses después. Resultados La puntuación media de dolor de espalda de la NRS del grupo HDL se redujo de 5 (rango: 4-8) a 4 (rango: 2-7) inmediatamente después de la inyección, a 2 (rango: 1-7) después de 7 días y a 2 (rango: 1-7) después de 3 meses (valor de p < 0,001). La puntuación media de dolor de espalda de la NRS del grupo ECL se redujo de 5 (rango: 4-8) a 4 (rango: 2-7) inmediatamente después de la inyección, a 2 (rango: 1-7) después de 7 días y a 3 (rango: 1- 7) después de 3 meses (valor de p < 0,001). La puntuación media de dolor de pierna de la NRS del grupo HDL se redujo de 5 (rango: 4-9) a 3 (rango: 3-7) inmediatamente después de la inyección, a 1 (rango: 1-6) después de 7 días y a 2 (rango: 1-7) después de 3 meses (valor p < 0,001). La puntuación media de dolor de pierna de la NRS del grupo ECL se redujo de 5 (rango: 4-9) a 4 (rango: 3-7) inmediatamente después de la inyección, a 3 (rango: 1-7) después de 7 días y a 2 (rango 1-6) después de 3 meses (valor p < 0,001). Conclusión IEE causa una mejoría estadísticamente significativa en el dolor de espalda y piernas en pacientes con HDL y ECL. Sin embargo, la eficacia a corto y medio plazo de la IEE en la ECL fue menor que la de HDL. Nivel de evidencia IV;Estudio prospectivo basado en hospitales.

Resumo Um experimento foi conduzido para estudar a variabilidade genética e o desempenho de nove cultivares exóticas de lilium (Lilium x hybrida) para adequação ao cultivo comercial nas regiões montanhosas do noroeste de Uttarakhand na Estação de Pesquisa e KVK, Lohaghat, GBPUA & T, Pantnagar, Champawat, Uttarakhand, India. Bulbos de nove cultivares híbridos de lilium viz., Acapulco (rosa), Sorbonne (branco), Yelloween (amarelo), Tresor (laranja), Brindisi (rosa), Blackout (vermelho), Pavia (amarelo), Ercolano (branco) e Samur (rosa) foram selecionados como material experimental. Houve diferença significativa nos dias de iniciação das gemas entre as nove cultivares. É evidente, a partir dos dados que demoram dias mínimos para o início da brotação na cultivar Blackout (44 dias), seguido de Tresor (45 dias). O número máximo de flores por planta relatado nas cultivares Acapulco (10,20) seguido por Yelloween (8,20) e Sorbonne (7,80) que está no mesmo nível de Blackout (7,40) e Pavia (7,20). A vida máxima de vaso foi registrada com Acapulco (12,4 dias) seguido por Sorbonne (11,80 dias), que está em paridade com Yelloween (11,8 dias), enquanto a vida mínima de vaso foi registrada com Ercolano (8,40 dias) e Tresor (8,40 dias). O valor médio encontrado foi máximo para o comprimento do caule da flor (87,29) e o valor médio mínimo foi exibido para o número de flores por planta. O valor de herdabilidade foi encontrado máximo para caracteres como dias para a abertura do botão da flor seguido pelo comprimento do caule da flor e dias necessários para o início da brotação.

Abstract An experiment was conducted to study genetic variability and performance of nine exotic lilium cultivars (Lilium x hybrida) for suitability for commercial cultivation in North Western hilly regions of Uttarakhand at Research Station and KVK, Lohaghat, GBPUA&T, Pantnagar, Champawat, Uttarakhand India. Bulbs of nine lilium hybrid cultivars viz., Acapulco (Pink), Sorbonne (White), Yelloween (Yellow), Tresor (Orange), Brindisi (Pink), Blackout (Red), Pavia (Yellow), Ercolano (White) and Samur (Pink) were selected as experimental material. There was significant difference in days taken for bud initiation among nine cultivars. It is evident from data that minimum days take for bud initiation in cultivar Blackout (44 days) followed by Tresor (45 days). The maximum number of flowers per plant reported in cultivars Acapulco (10.20) followed by Yelloween (8.20) and Sorbonne (7.80) which is at par with Blackout (7.40) and Pavia (7.20). Maximum vase life was recorded with Acapulco (12.4 days) followed by Sorbonne (11.80 days) which is at par with Yelloween (11.8 days) while Minimum vase life was recorded with Ercolano (8.40 days) and Tresor ( 8.40 days). Mean value was found maximum for flower stem length (87.29) and minimum mean value was exhibited by number of flowers per plant. Heritability value was found maximum for characters like days to flower bud opening followed by length of flower stalk and days taken to bud initiation.

Abstract In the present study, the correlation and presence of genetic interactions were studied in the F3 and F5 generations of two groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) crosses. Most of the characters studied were positively skewed and were governed by multiple genes, indicating quantitative inheritance. Variance, skewness, and kurtosis indicate that homozygosity has increased over the generations in both crosses. Cross-B was found to be better than cross-A in providing high-yielding segregants displaying parental diversity. Pod yield per plant and other associated characters, such as plant height, are controlled by complementary action of multiple genes. A shift in correlation coefficients was recorded between the generations, which can be attributed to the difference in gene complementation of linkage blocks and is an indication of the unstable nature of the breeding population. Overall, five lines with superior pod yield were identified, which could be used for varietal development.

ABSTRACT Objectives To compare and assess various outcomes and success of buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty (BMGU) in patients with CKD versus patients having normal renal function. Material and Methods This was a retrospective, single centre study, during period 2013 to 2017. Patients were grouped into two groups. Group 1 had patients with estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)>60mL/min/1.73m2 while group 2 had patients with eGFR <60mL/min/1.73m2. eGFR was calculated according to the MDRD equation. The two groups were compared with regard to various outcomes like length, location of stricture, technique of graft placement, intra-operative blood loss (haemoglobin drop), duration of hospital stay, post-operative complications and recurrence. Results A total of 223 patients were included in study with group 1 had 130 patients and group 2 had 93 patients. Mean age of patients with CKD were higher (47.49 years versus 29.13 years). The mean follow-up period was comparable between both groups (23.29 months and 22.54 months respectively). Patients with CKD had more post-operative Clavien Grade 2 or higher complications (p=0.01) and a greater recurrence rates (p<0.001) than in non-CKD patients. On multivariate analysis, age and CKD status was significant predictor of urethroplasty success (p=0.004) (OR= 14.98 (1.952-114.94, 95% CI). Conclusions CKD patients are more prone to post-operative complications in terms of wound infection, graft uptake and graft failure and higher recurrence rates following BMGU.

Abstract In this paper, we present an extension of the classical hypergeometric functions using extended gamma function due to Jumarie and obtained some properties.

South Africa is among the countries with the highest prevalence of debilitating diseases such as HIV/Aids and diabetes. In this context, the emergence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VREs) in most South African ecological niches is quite disturbing, taking into consideration the fact that therapeutic options in a case of resistant-enterococci infection would be limited. Agricultural practices coupled with the misuse of antibiotics in intensive animal rearing and in hospital facilities have led to the creation of reservoirs of VREs in the environment. VREs can cause serious health problems by transmitting their resistance genes to susceptible pathogens; they are transmitted to humans by direct or indirect contact and through the food chain. We screened thoroughly the AJOL and the PubMed databases for studies on VRE incidence in South Africa. This review gives insight into the current status of antimicrobial resistance management in South Africa; it explores the different pathways involved in the spread of VREs and proposes possible solutions to tackle the issue of VREs and antimicrobial resistance in South Africa and other parts of the world. Significance: • The recent detection of vancomycin-resistant enterococci in most South African ecological niches poses a serious threat to public health and is therefore an issue of great concern. • This study not only addresses the causes and patterns of resistance to antimicrobial agents, particularly in South Africa, but also outlines a holistic approach to potential strategies to tackle antimicrobial resistance in South Africa and the world at large.