Increased baseline ECG R-R dispersion predicts improvement in systolic function after atrial fibrillation ablation.

BackgroundAtrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction which may improve after AF ablation. We hypothesised that increased ventricular irregularity, as measured by R-R dispersion on the baseline ECG, would predict improvement in the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after AF ablation.MethodsPatients with LVEF <50% at two US centres (2007-2016), having both a preablation and postablation echocardiogram or cardiac MRI, were included. LVEF improvement was defined as absolute increase in LVEF by >7.5%. Multivariable logistic regression (restricted to echocardiographic/ECG variables) was performed to evaluate predictors of LVEF improvement.ResultsFifty-two patients were included in this study. LVEF improved in 30 patients (58%) and was unchanged/worsened in 22 patients (42%). Those with versus without LVEF improvement had an increased baseline R-R dispersion (645±155 ms vs 537±154 ms, p=0.02, respectively). The average baseline heart rate in all patients was 93 beats per minute. After multivariable logistic regression, increased R-R dispersion (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.55, p=0.03) predicted LVEF improvement.ConclusionsIncreased R-R dispersion on ECG was independently associated with improved systolic function after AF ablation. This broadens the existing knowledge of arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy, demonstrating that irregular electrical activation (as measured by increased R-R dispersion on ECG) is associated with a cardiomyopathy capable of improving after AF ablation

Numerical Simulation of Thermoelectric Transport in Bulk and Nanostructured SiSn Alloys

The current high demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources to solve world energy crisis has enormously increased interest in looking at alternative sources of energy. All the machines used in manufacturing process, electricity generation, residential applications, transportation etc., rejects energy in the form of heat into environment. Thermoelectric materials can convert thermal-to-electrical and electrical-to-thermal energy and can be utilized in waste-heat harvesting, more efficient cooling to reduce energy usage and CO2 emissions. Significant research efforts have been devoted over the past decade to thermoelectric materials, with particular emphasis being placed on combining materials selection with nanostructuring. The overarching goal was to reduce thermal conductivity through selective phonon scattering and thus boost the thermoelectric figure-of-merit (ZT). SiGe alloys, as well as superlattices and nanocomposites made from them, showed significant improvements upon nanostructuring and ZT exceeding one at high temperatures. Other group IV alloys were not studied in the context of thermoelectrics. However, SiSn alloys are widely studied for their optoelectronic properties because they were predicted to become direct-gap materials when Sn composition increased beyond about 50%. To address this gap, we study the thermoelectric properties of SiSn alloys. Furthermore, we develop an iterative full-band solver for the electron Boltzmann transport equation and use it to compute the electron and hole mobility and Seebeck coeffcient in SiSn alloys. The electronic structure of SiSn alloys was computed in the virtual crystal approximation from non-local empirical pseudopotentials, while the application of strain allowed us to extract the electron-phonon coupling deformation potentials for each alloy composition. We benchmark our code against available mobility data for Si and SiGe alloys and find that it accurately reproduces the measured values. Full phonon dispersion was computed from the adiabatic bond charge model, which was shown to accurately reproduce measured dispersion, and used in our phonon BTE solver to compute lattice thermal conductivities. Scattering rates include anharmonic phonon-phonon, impurity, isotope, alloy, and boundary mechanisms. The lowest thermal conductivity was obtained in SiSn alloys, which have been experimentally demonstrated with up to 18% Sn composition. This carries through when combined with calculations of electronic power factor, where mobilities and Seebeck coeffcients of SiSn alloys are comparable to those of SiGe. Furthermore, ZT is optimized through doping for every composition. The ZT improves dramatically at higher temperatures, reaching ZT of 1.9, 2.36 is obtained for Sn composition of 10% and 50% in a n-doped bulk SiSn alloys at a temperature of 1480 K. However, such high Sn composition of 50% is unlikely to be synthesized due to low solid solubility of Sn in Si. Lastly, we study the impact of nanostructuring in thin films on the ZT. We also establish the limits on how much the ZT can be improved through nanostructuring by studying thin films of SiSn alloys across temperature from room temperature up to 1500 K. We conclude that in bulk SiSn alloys, even at modest Sn concentration of 10%, ZT can reach 1.9, while in 20 nm thin films of n-type SiSn alloys, it can reach the long-sought target of ZT\u3e3 and ZT of 2.16 is obtained in p-type nanostructured SiSn alloys

Effect of method of freezing, processing and packaging variables on microbiological and other quality characteristics of beef and poultry

Various aspects of freezing preservation and packaging methods were studied for feasibility of use for beef and poultry in practical applications;Investigations on the effects of combining fresh and frozen beef in different proportions showed that a 50:50 ratio of fresh to frozen beef produced higher bacterial numbers than observed when other proportions were combined and held in frozen storage. No health hazard was evident from any of the different combinations of fresh or frozen beef or from liquid nitrogen or liquid CO(,2) freezing and frozen storage. Changes in bacterial flora as a result of freezing and frozen storage were studied by classifying the isolates into phenotypic groups with the help of replica plating and computerized cluster analysis. Reference cultures were used to identify the clusters. The Moraxella-Acinetobacter group increased considerably in percentage of total isolates after freezing, with a decline during frozen storage. A concomitant increase in the Pseudomonas group of organisms occurred during frozen storage. Certain characteristics of the bacterial flora that were related to spoilage of beef such as lipolysis of beef fat and proteolysis became more pronounced after frozen storage. These changes generally followed the pattern of alterations in the proportions of Pseudomonas to other groups;Studies on the effects of packaging materials and methods on shelf life of chicken showed that a high barrier (vacuum package) material provided greatest restriction of bacterial multiplication, a low barrier (vacuum package) was next effective and a stretch wrap in a tray (air pack) was least effective. Chlorine at a level of 20 ppm as a dip did not provide increased storage life compared with vacuum packaged chicken maintained in the dry state during storage at 5(DEGREES)C. All cut-up poultry spoiled faster than any of the whole birds. Cutting operations increased the incidence of Salmonella and coagulase positive staphylococci on chicken;Investigations on the effects of cryogenic and conventional freezing methods on factors related to quality of turkey meat indicated that all freezing methods caused an increase in Myofibril Fragmentation Index, a measure considered to be associated with tenderness of meat. Conventionally frozen turkey meat had higher fluid losses than meat frozen by liquid nitrogen

Ayurvedic management of Mukhadushika (Acne Vulgaris) - Case Report

Mukhadushika or acne vulgaris, is a common skin ailment with significant physical and psychological implications, particularly among adolescents. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments in managing Mukhadushika. A 21-year-old female patient suffering from facial pimples, pain, and related discomfort visited Panchakarma Hospital. Despite prior allopathic treatment, no relief was observed. Ayurvedic assessments revealed imbalances in Vata, Pitta, Kapha, Rasa, and Rakta doshas. The treatment protocol consisted of Virechana (purification therapy) followed by Jaloukavacharana (leech therapy) and Shamanoushadhi (internal medications). The results showed a substantial improvement in the patient's symptoms, with the absence of black and white comedones, reduced macules and papules, and complete resolution of nodules and tenderness. The treatment approach, including the use of Sanjeevini Vati, Virechana Karma, and Jaloukavacharana, proved effective without side effects

IOT devices based improved cryptosystem for secure image sharing

The security and integrity of medical data have become major problems for healthcare services applications due to the considerable growth of the internet of things (IoT) in the healthcare industry. For protecting diagnostic text data in medical pictures, this study offers a hybrid security architecture. The suggested model is created by combining a proposed hybrid encryption method with either 2D-Discrete Wavelet Transform 1 Level (2D-DWT-1L) or 2D-DWT-2L steganography. The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Rivest, Shamir, and Adleman (RSA) algorithms are combined in the proposed hybrid encryption scheme. The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Rivest, Shamir, and Adleman (RSA) algorithms are combined in the proposed hybrid encryption scheme. The suggested methodology encrypts the secret data first, then uses 2D-DWT-1L or 2D-DWT-2L to conceal the result in a cover picture. To hide varying text sizes, cover pictures in both colour and grayscale are utilized. The results of the experiments demonstrate that the suggested picture steganography approach achieves a reasonable balance of resilience and invisibility, even for messages of various sizes

Clinical Evaluation of Panchakola Siddha Yavagu and Simhanada Guggulu in the Management of Amavata

Amavata, a chronic inflammatory condition, arises from vitiation of Vata associated with Ama (metabolic toxins). The vitiated Vata circulates Ama through channels (Dhamanis) and localizes in Shleshma Sthana (joints, stomach, etc.), producing stiffness, swelling, and pain. In Ayurveda, management emphasizes Deepana, Pachana, Virechana, Snehapana and Basti. Pathya plays a crucial role in the management of Amavata. In contemporary science it is correlated with Rhematoid Arthritis (RA). As the disease progresses the symptoms verses and it may lead deformity. Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Panchakola Siddha Yavagu and Simhanada Guggulu in an Amavata patient. Methodology: A 34-year-old female presented with multiple joint pain (dominantly knees), morning stiffness, swelling, anorexia, and difficulty in ambulation. Laboratory reports revealed raised inflammatory markers. She was administered Panchakola Siddha Yavagu (250ml daily on empty stomach) and Simhanada Guggulu (500mg twice daily) for 14 days with dietary guidelines. Follow-up was done on the 15th and 30th day. Results: Remarkable improvements were observed, including reduced joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. ESR decreased from 80 to 40, CRP from 9 to 8, and RA factor from 23 to 20. Appetite and mobility improved notably, and by the 30th day the patient was asymptomatic. Discussion: Panchakola supports Deepana and Pachana, aiding Ama Pachana. Simhanada Guggulu combines Shodhana and Shamana effects, exhibiting strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. The combined therapy reduced inflammatory markers and enhanced quality of life. Conclusion: The cost-effective and simple regimen of Panchakola Siddha Yavagu with Simhanada Guggulu proves highly effective in managing Amavata

A Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Combined Effect of Kulattha Yusha with Vidanga Churna in the Management of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common thyroid disorders. An underactive thyroid gland characterizes it. The prevalence of hypothyroidism in India is around 11%, and Females suffer more than males, with a ratio of 6:1. The prevalence of clinical Hypothyroidism is about 4%. WHO initiated the project to fight thyroid hypofunction. From an Ayurvedic perspective, Hypothyroidism is characterized by Agnimandya (diminution of Agni), affecting both Jataragni (Digestive power) and Dhatwagni (metabolic factors located in Dhatu). It involves increased Kapha and Vata Doshas and decreased Pitta Dosha, often exacerbated by an unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, and chronic stress. Treatment should focus on Agnideepana (enhancing metabolic fire), Kaphavatahara, and Pittakara principles. This clinical trial investigates the combined effect of Kulattha Yusha (Horse gram soup) and Vidanga Churna, which are recommended for their supportive properties used in managing Hypothyroidism. With this approach, the current study was designed to evaluate the combined effect of Kulattha Yusha (Horse gram soup) and Vidanga Churna in the management of hypothyroidism. Materials and Methods: The data were collected on the 0th day, 61st day, and 90th day after completing the Kulattha Yusha (Horse gram soup) with Vidanga Churna treatment. Results: The results indicate that the combined use of Kulattha Yusha (Horse gram soup) and Vidanga Churna showed clinically and statistically highly significant results in reducing hypothyroidism symptoms such as obesity, multiple joint pain and stiffness, heaviness of the body, loss of appetite, and the Zuwelski Total Scale Score for hypothyroidism, as well as a reduction in TSH levels, with a significant p-value of 0.000 Discussion: Kulatta Yusha, and Vidanga Churna known for its properties of Ushna, Tikshna, Kaphavatahara, Medhoghna, Agnideepana, and Vibandhahara, serves as an effective remedy for supporting thyroid function and restoring balance of Doshas

Understanding of Pranavaha Sroto Moola in the purview of modern physiology

Introduction: Pranavaha Srotas are the first Srotas to be enlisted in Charaka Samhita. These channels carry Prana all over the body to all bodily tissues. Pranavaha Srotas has its Moola in Hridaya and Mahasrotas according to Charaka Samhita while Sushuruta Samhita states that Hridaya and Rasavahini Dhamanis as Moola. Moola of Pranavaha Srotas not only denotes the anatomical aspects but also represents the functional entities. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was done on Pranavaha Srotas in Ayurveda and the physiology of respiration according to contemporary science through searching classical texts, textbooks, and online articles from peer-reviewed journals to narrate the Anatomical, Functional/physiological aspects, and Therapeutic aspects of Pranavaha Sroto Moola. Results: Pranavaha Srotas can be considered as a functional unit that consists of the heart, brain, and alimentary canal. Respiratory physiology is directly linked to the circulatory, gastro gastrointestinal systems for the exchange of gases, absorption, transportation, excretion, monitoring, and control of all activities. Conclusion: Pranavaha Srotas is the basic system that works in harmony with all the physiological attributes of the body like circulatory, alimentary, and nervous systems

Identification of amino acid residues, essential for maintaining the tetrameric structure of sheep liver cytosolic serine hydroxymethyltransferase, by targeted mutagenesis

Serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT), a pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme, catalyses the transfer of the hydroxymethyl group from serine to tetrahydrofolate to yield glycine and N5,N10-methylenetetrahydrofolate. An analysis of the known SHMT sequences indicated that several amino acid residues were conserved. In this paper, we report the identification of the amino acid residues essential for maintaining the oligomeric structure of sheep liver cytosolic recombinant SHMT (scSHMT) through intra- and inter-subunit interactions and by stabilizing the binding of PLP at the active site. The mutation of Lys-71, Arg-80 and Asp-89, the residues involved in intra-subunit ionic interactions, disturbed the oligomeric structure and caused a loss of catalytic activity. Mutation of Trp-110 to Phe was without effect, while its mutation to Ala resulted in the enzyme being present in the insoluble fraction. These results suggested that Trp-110 located in a cluster of hydrophobic residues was essential for proper folding of the enzyme. Arg-98 and His-304, residues involved in the inter-subunit interactions, were essential for maintaining the tetrameric structure. Mutation of Tyr-72, Asp-227 and His-356 at the active site which interact with PLP resulted in the loss of PLP, and hence loss of tetrameric structure. Mutation of Cys-203, located away from the active site, weakened PLP binding indirectly. The results demonstrate that in addition to residues involved in inter-subunit interactions, those involved in PLP binding and intra-subunit interactions also affect the oligomeric structure of scSHMT