BackgroundSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder characterized by unpredictable flares and variable clinical quiescence. Despite validated clinical indices like the British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) score, reliable molecular biomarkers for monitoring disease activity remain limited, particularly in underrepresented South Asian populations. Weaimed to identify arobust molecular framework to distinguish SLE flares from remission in an Indian cohort.MethodsWe conducted a discovery-phase study in an Indian cohort (n=16) stratified by Easy-BILAG scoring. Plasma proteomic profiling via LC-MS/MS was integrated with targeted cytokine quantification using the Olink Proximity Extension Assay (PEA). Differential expression and network analyses delineated immune-regulatory, hypoxic-vascular, and myeloid-activation pathways. A Random Forest classifier was trained on selected biomarkers and evaluated using leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV), permutation testing, and bootstrapped AUROC confidence intervals, with model interpretability assessed by SHAP values. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD075349.ResultsProteomic comparison identified a compact panel of proteins distinguishing flare from remission, characterized by a molecular polarization; flare states exhibited upregulation of COL18A1 and CSF1 (vascular and myeloid activation), while remission showed sustained expression of cytoskeletal scaffolding and immunoregulatory components, including FLNA, SH3BGRL3, and IGHG4. Cytokine analyses identified coordinated chemokine modules (CXCL9, CCL2, CCL3, and CCL13) preferentially upregulated during flare. The machine-learning model achieved robust internal discrimination with a mean AUROC of 0.96. Notably, a COL18A1 normalized protein expression cut-off yielded 100% specificity and 87.5% sensitivity, acting as an objective ‘rule-in’ adjunct for active disease. Normalized protein expression (NPX) cut-off yielded 100% specificity and 87.5% sensitivity, acting as an objective “rule-in” adjunct for active disease.ConclusionsThis study establishes a parsimonious 5-protein biosignature of candidate leads (COL18A1, HYOU1, IGHG4, FLNA, and SH3BGRL3) that effectively captures the multifactorial pathophysiology of SLE flare. By anchoring discovery in a systematically under sampled Indian population, this work enhances global diversity in lupus biomarker research and establishes a scalable, AI-driven framework for precision assessment of disease activity.
The photodermatoses comprise of a miscellaneous set of photosensitive disorders with abnormal cutaneous response to sunlight. The diagnosis is mostly clinical and is augmented by methods such as phototesting, photoprovocation testing, and photopatch testing, which are discussed below. Treatment includes photoprotection, prophylactic phototherapy, as well as topical and systemic immunosuppression to varying extents. Various newer modalities for photoprotection as well as treatment are being explored.
Background Female genital dermatoses (FGD) or vulvar dermatoses are a group of disorders that affect the vulva and contiguous parts. Most of the FGDs can be chronic or recurrent. Effects on Quality of life (QoL) in patients having dermatological conditions are well studied but this is not the case in vulvar dermatoses. Aims We aimed to study the etiology of genital dermatoses in females attending the Dermatology Out Patient Department (OPD) and to assess QoL in females with chronic FGD (>6 weeks duration). Settings and Design This was an observational study on female patients with vulvar complaints presenting to dermatology OPD. Both venereal and nonvenereal dermatoses were enrolled. QoL was assessed in females with chronic FGD using a self-administered Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. Statistical Analysis Sample size was calculated using the formula Categorical variables were presented as numbers and percentages (%) and continuous variables were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and median. The normality of the data was tested by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test or non-parametric test. A t-test was used for the estimation of the mean. Results Ninety-seven patients were included in our study; Vulvovaginal candidiasis was the most common dermatoses (22.6%); Lichen simplex chronicus (11.3%) the commonest non-venereal dermatoses. 57 (58.7%) had chronic FGD, among whom 43 (75.4%) had significant QoL impairment. Conclusions Infectious etiologies predominated. There was significant impairment in QoL in females with chronic FGD.
SrTiO 3 /Ag nanocomposites were synthesized using a facile wet impregnation method, employing rigorous experimental techniques for comprehensive characterization. XRD, FTIR, UV, PL, FESEM, and HRTEM were meticulously utilized to elucidate their structural, functional, morphological, and optical properties. The electrochemical performance of the SrTiO 3 /Ag nanocomposite was rigorously assessed, revealing an impressive specific capacitance of 850 F/g at a current density of 1 A. Furthermore, the photocatalytic activity of the SrTiO 3 /Ag nanocomposite was rigorously examined using methylene blue (MB) dye, and the results were outstanding. After 120 min of UV irradiation, the nanocomposite exhibited an exceptional MB dye degradation efficiency exceeding 88%. The SrTiO 3 /Ag nanocomposite represents an exemplary catalyst in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, environmental compatibility, and reusability. The electron and superoxide radicals play a chief role in the MB dye degradation process. The inclusion of Ag within the SrTiO 3 matrix facilitated the formation of a conductive nano-network, ultimately resulting in superior capacitive and photocatalytic performance.
One of the most critical issues facing the globe today is the lack of readily available potable water, and scientists have made significant progress toward a solution. Compared to traditional treatment methods, nanotechnologytreated water is preferable because it eliminates dangerous microorganisms and organic pigments. In this study, we have fabricated Nickel Oxide- Lupeol loaded chitosan Nanoparticle (Lup@CS-NiO) nanocomposite via ionic gelation method and this nanocomposite was subjected to various characterization, that includes FTIR, FESEM, EDX, XRD, XPS, and UV-Vis to gain more information about the synthesized nanocomposite. We used visible light irradiation to examine the photodegradation of two organic dyes, Acridine Orange (AO) and Rose Bengal (RB), to determine how well the NiO/Lup@CS nanocomposites worked. The NiO/Lup@CS nanocomposites showed remarkable photocatalytic activity, long-term stability, and the rapid degradation of the dye solution to 85.98% (AO) and 86.46% (RB) in only 60 min. When compared to pure NiO nanoparticles, the degrading efficiency of the NiO/Lup@CS nanocomposites was much higher. In visible light irradiation studies using trapping, the reactive oxidative species involved in the photocatalytic process include superoxide radical anion (O2 2 radical) and OH radical. The photocatalyst was able to attain a 100% recovery rate by a simple hand-picking method, and it remained stable even after three uses. The study introduces a new Lup@CS nanocomposite that is loaded with NiO nanoparticles. It shows great effectiveness in breaking down the Acridine Orange and Rose Bengal dyes. The innovation's potential environmental effect is underscored by the fact that it provides a viable alternative for wastewater treatment.
In 2004, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) was established to facilitate the nationwide adoption and use of health information technology (health IT). Since its inception, the health IT landscape has evolved with a diverse array of federal investments, programs, and policies to advance its use. Previous systematic reviews of literature related to health IT focused on assessing the adoption and use of technology. As health IT has evolved, research has pivoted from tracking adoption of specific health IT features to assessing the impact of these technologies and tools. This paper provides a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed publications published over the past decade to closely examine the impacts of health IT including the impact of federal policies, changing priorities, and how the expanded use of EHR features, and effect of health IT on people, processes, and outcomes. All health IT-related peer-reviewed published between January 2013 and June 2023 were evaluated to identify articles that focused on the impact of health IT. Articles and studies were extracted through a review of PubMed. A stepwise process was used to identify articles that met the inclusion criteria, focused on the impact of health IT, and demonstrated sufficient scientific rigor. The resulting 408 articles were coded based on their primary focus (provider-facing or patient-facing technology), or based on topics that pertained to the systemwide use of health IT. Within each of these categories, articles were organized around key themes. Overwhelmingly, research studies reported that health IT generated a positive impact. More than half of all articles focused on provider-facing technology with a focus on measurable outcomes including quality, safety, and costs. A number of studies evaluated the increased use of patient portals and other tools to support engagement. Studies on interoperability highlighted the value of increased health information exchange. An emerging area of study included a focus on the role of health IT in advancing public and population health. Over three-quarters of the published literature concluded that health IT generated a positive, mixed, or neutral impact. These effects were consistent across the different categories of health IT that were examined whether provider-facing, patient-facing, or systemwide impact of health IT. Over the past decade, the focus of studies on the impact of health IT has evolved, transitioning from a concentration on health IT adoption to optimizing its potential. This includes assessing the effectiveness of EHR functions as well as increasing information exchange. As the landscape evolved with broader acceptance of health IT, the focus shifted with greater interest in technology’s impact on patient engagement, and opportunities to use data to advance health care including population and public health. N/A
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, heterogeneous, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody production, complement activation, and immune complex deposition. SLE predominantly affects young, middle-aged, and child-bearing women with episodes of flare-up and remission, although it affects males at a much lower frequency (female: male; 7:1 to 15:1). Technological and molecular advancements have helped in patient stratification and improved patient prognosis, morbidity, and treatment regimens overall, impacting quality of life. Despite several attempts to comprehend the pathogenesis of SLE, knowledge about the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this disease is still lacking. The current treatment options for SLE are pragmatic and aim to develop composite biomarkers for daily practice, which necessitates the robust development of novel treatment strategies and drugs targeting specific responsive pathways. In this communication, we review and aim to explore emerging therapeutic modalities, including multiomics-based approaches, rational drug design, and CAR-T-cell-based immunotherapy, for the management of SLE.
In the present work, a CoMoO4/r-GO hybrid was synthesized via a simple hydrothermal process. The phase purity and chemical binding energy were studied by powder XRD and XPS analytical techniques. The surface topography and internal morphology of the CoMoO4/r-GO hybrid were tested by FE-SEM and TEM analysis. The EDX elemental mapping was confirmed by the presence of Co, Mo, O, and C in the CoMoO4/r-GO hybrid. The CoMoO4/r-GO hybrid electrode material delivered a high specific capacitance of 556 F/g compared to 396 F/g (CoMoO4) at a current density of 0.5 A/g. The life cycle stability of the CoMoO4/r-GO hybrid exhibited 97 % and 95 % of columbic efficiency and capacitance retained over 1000 charge-discharge (GCD) cycles at a current density of 10 A/g.
Radiodermatitis (RD) is an adverse effect of radiation therapy. RD can negatively impact quality of life and can also hinder treatment in cancer patients. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has the potential to treat RD at the cellular level, and it is more promising compared to other therapy alternatives. This review aims to examine the effectiveness of PBMT for the treatment and management of RD in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. The methodology followed for the review was based on the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley, and the extensions by Levac et al. This involved a literature search in Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane without any time limit, for original articles on the basis of the inclusion criteria, i.e., studies focusing on the effectiveness of PBMT on RD in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy as an anticancer treatment. The review has been reported on the basis of the PRISMA-ScR checklist. A total of 14 studies were reviewed, of which only 2 (14.28
NiO composites doped with metals have effective uses in supercapacitors. Nickel oxide-copper oxide graphitized nanoflower (NiO-CuO-GNF) is made with saponin. We can analyses the shape of nickel oxide-copper oxide nanoflower (NiO-CuO-GNF) using a FESEM examination. The electrochemical performance is evaluated using CV, GCD and EIS. The specific capacitance values of NiO-CuO-GNF and NiO-CuO were 1256F/g and 362F/g, respectively. The NiO-CuO-GNF GCD curves show cyclic stability of 20,000 cycles with three electrode setup and columbic efficiency (%) of 98.8 % at 1 Ag-1. The power density (838 Wkg � 1) and the energy density (64 Whkg � 1) is achieved using three electrode system. We have also used a two electrode system to study GCD curves in relation to this and results showed greater cyclic stability over 60,000 cycles. There is a power density of 3480 W Kg � 1 and an energy density of 20.5 Whkg � 1. This work involves hydrothermal method in a single stage which is rarely reported before. The temperature of the method of the synthesis is just 300 degrees C. The more stable structure of the NiO-CuO-GNF material and its synergistic effect improve the reaction's reversibility, which leads to cyclic stability.
Dear Editor, Pachyonychia congenita (PC) is a rare, debilitating disease affecting skin and nails, manifesting as palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) with painful blisters, nail dystrophy, and subungual hyperkeratosis. Up to 30% of cases occur due to sporadic mutations.[1] A 15-year-old boy, born of non-consanguineous marriage, presented with painful nodulopustules of the scalp with alopecia and inflammatory acne for a year and painful blistering of soles and progressive nail dystrophy since birth. His siblings were unaffected. He was treated repeatedly with systemic doxycycline and isotretinoin, topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment, topical keratolytics, and topical tazarotene for varying intervals of time, with varying improvement, but not to complete satisfaction. Examination revealed erythematous papules, pustules, broken hairs, and soft, non-tender nodules in the occipital area with surrounding non-scarring alopecia [Figure 1a]. Comedones, pustules, erythematous nodules, cysts, and a few pitted scars on the face and neck [Figure 1b and c], discrete keratotic papules and pitted, atrophic scars on extensors of arms [Figure 1d] and dorsa of hands were present. A hyperkeratotic plaque was seen on the right sole. Hoof-like nails with onycholysis and profuse keratotic debris were present [Figure 2a, b and c]. Lips, teeth, and oral mucosae were normal. Skin biopsy was refused by the parents. The patient was advised care of hands and feet and started on doxycycline 100 mg daily, salicylic acid and urea-containing cream for soles, and tazarotene gel for nails. With a provisional diagnosis of PC, genetic testing was done via PC foundation, which revealed a mutation in the keratin 17 gene, K17p.Leu95Pro in the 1A (HIM) domain which causes the type PC-K17, due to leucine being changed to proline at point 95 of the gene. The mutation responsible for alopecia could not be detected, and we assume alopecia to be secondary to inflammation.Figure 1: (a) Posterior scalp showing patchy alopecia, broken hairs, papulopustules, and nodules (b) acneiform papules, cysts, nodules, comedones, and scars on face (c) papules and cystic lesions on neck (d) keratotic papules on elbows and extensor forearmsFigure 2: (a) Nail dystrophy with yellowish to blackish pigmented and thickened finger nails (b) toenails (c) hoof-like great toe nail with keratotic plaquePC is an autosomal dominant (AD) keratinization disorder chiefly affecting skin and nails and manifests as palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) with underlying vesicles and bullae, plantar pain, and nail dystrophy with subungual hyperkeratosis. Other associations include leukokeratosis, cysts, and follicular hyperkeratosis. Mutations may involve keratin genes: KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT6C, KRT16, and KRT17. Up to 30% of cases may have sporadic mutations.[1] This is a relatively rare disease, with the International PC Registry having registered only 1240 proven cases.[1] The earlier classification of PC was based on clinical features and included three subtypes and a late-onset type IV disease was described by some authors [Table 1].[2]Table 1: Clinical findings in PC: Current triad and previous clinical classificationWith advanced molecular genetics, PC is classified into 5 variants: PC-K6a, PC-K6b, PC-K6c, PC-K16, and PC-K17 based on mutations in corresponding keratin genes.[1] There are more than 100 genetic mutation variants, often specific to families with specific clinical associations. The unifying triad of PC is hypertrophic nail dystrophy, PPK with plantar pain.[3] Plantar keratoderma with fissures and blisters starts when the child begins to walk and can impact the quality of life. Palmar keratoderma is rare. There may be a neuropathic component.[1] Diagnosis is mainly clinical [Table 1]. Differentials include clinically similar genetic conditions [Table 2]. Histopathology is non-specific. Electron microscopy reveals bundles of densely aggregated keratin filaments in the upper spinous layers of the plantar epidermis. Genetic testing is available for free at International PC Foundation in cases with strong clinical suspicion.[4] Management is symptomatic, with genetic counselling of parents. Measures can be taken to reduce nail thickness, plantar hyperkeratosis, and pain. Plantar keratoderma: soaking and paring, trimming of calluses, use of soft footwear, care of feet, avoiding pressure, care of fissures, use of keratolytic agents like 3-6% salicylic acid, 10-20% urea, lactic acid, and regular use of emollients and moisturizers.Table 2: Possible clinical differential diagnoses for PCNails: filing, grinding, use of pet nail trimmers, 40% urea for lysis, and topical antibiotics and antifungals for prevention of superadded infections. Cystic lesions: incision and drainage, topical antibiotics, systemic antibiotics, and systemic isotretinoin. Maintenance of oral hygiene is imperative. Regular follow-up and biopsy if required of oral leukokeratosis. Oral retinoids are useful for plantar keratoderma and cystic lesions, though nail thickening does not respond. Low-dose acitretin (25 mg per day) may be effective.[5] Botulinum toxin injections for hyperkeratosis and blistering, sirolimus for painful callosities, and rosuvastatin have also been tried. This case is being highlighted to showcase that though India is a treasure trove of rare diseases, a good reporting system is absent and often we have to resort to foreign aid for genetic testing and other sophisticated medical tests. A national registry and a sponsored genetic database for various diseases are the need of the day to reduce our dependence on international funding agencies. Declaration of Patient Consent The authors certify that they have obtained all appropriate patient consent forms. In the form, the patient(s) has/have given his/her/their consent for his/her/their images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patients understand that their names and initials will not be published and due efforts will be made to conceal their identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.
In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal and solvothermal method and were covered by zinc sulfate using a chemical approach forming ZnO@ZnS core–shell nanostructures. Different techniques like XRD, BET, FESEM, PL, and UV–Vis spectroscopy as well as photocatalytic activity of ZnO, ZnS, and ZnO@ZnS results were investigated to confirm the nanostructure and homogeneous distribution of particles inside the matrix. In addition, the scavenger study indicates that all charge carriers and reactive radicals contribute by roughly close extent, which explains the observed increase in the rate of degradation. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated under UV light toward MO and RhB dyes. For degrading MO solution under UV irradiation, it is found that both the photocatalytic performances of ZnO@ZnS are much higher (98.6
Primary dermatological disorders which are frequently exacerbated by stress and whose course is affected by the psychological state of the patient are called psychophysiologic or psychosomatic diseases. Psychosocial stress plays a major role in the onset and/or aggravation of these skin diseases. A close relationship between the skin and the mind mediated via hormones and neurotransmitters and altered cutaneous permeability barrier homeostasis by psychological stress constitute the basic psychopathology. The common skin conditions precipitated/aggravated by stress include psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, alopecia areata, urticaria, lichen planus, prurigo, seborrheic dermatitis, and hyperhidrosis. These cutaneous diseases often have a chronic, unpredictable course with multiple remissions and relapses leading to significant psychiatric morbidity, and disease-related stress further acts as an aggravating factor for the cutaneous disease leading to a vicious cycle. Increased awareness about these psychophysiologic diseases among dermatologists has helped to incorporate psychotherapeutic treatment in the form of psychotropic drugs and nonpharmacological interventions in the management of these patients. A multidisciplinary approach consisting of dermatologists along with psychiatrists and psychologists in a liaison framework has proven useful for these patients.
Primary psychiatric conditions are those conditions, wherein the cutaneous manifestations are secondary to functional psychopathology in the brain. These comprise of psychiatric disorders with dermatologic manifestations and include conditions such as dermatitis artefacta, delusions of parasitosis, obsessive–compulsive disorders, body-focused repetitive behavior disorders, or somatoform disorders. Herein, we describe the clinical features and diagnostic methods of the individual primary psychiatric conditions, most of which have definitive diagnostic criteria in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, and discuss the differential diagnoses encountered in clinical practice, in brief.
Herein, we offer the study on the conductive polymer of polypyrrole and iron oxide (Fe2O3@PPy) nanocomposites, which are prepared via a simple chemical oxidation method for energy storage applications. The synthesized nanocomposites are confirmed by the physico-chemical properties through Fourier Transform Infra-red Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) results along with Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Galvanostatic Charge–Discharge (GCD) and stability analyses. The surface morphological studies of SEM and high TEM images substantiated the formation of Fe2O3@PPy nanocomposite via the polymerization process. The prepared Fe2O3@PPy nanocomposites deliver at a specific capacity of 395.45 C g−1 at 5 mV s−1 scan rate. Moreover, Fe2O3@PPy nanocomposite shows outstanding cycling stability of capacity 94.3% even after 10000 cycles of charge-discharge at the highest current density value of 10 A g−1. The remarkable electrochemical energy storage manner of as-synthesized Fe2O3@PPy nanocomposite is considered a potential electrode for supercapacitor application. The higher electrochemical performance of this Fe2O3@PPy nanocomposite it’s suitable for numerous applications like batteries, sensors, photocatalysts, solar cells and commercial requirements.
•Phase transition from phase- 1 to phase-2 of L-α-Leucine is reported by shock waves.•The high temperature phase can be alternative material for NLO applications.•Shock waves provide the alternative way to explore the new structural materials.
In the present study, CuO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites were successfully synthesized using the one-step hydrothermal technique. The physicochemical properties (structural, morphological, and chemical state) of prepared electrode material were studied by using various analytical techniques. The CuO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites-based electrode material was used as anode material and it exhibited a high specific capacitance of 384F/g at the current density of 2 A/g. The cyclic stability of CuO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites showed a remarkable capacitance retertion of 98.02 % after 5000 charge-discharge (GCD) cycles at 10 A g-1.
Electrochemical supercapacitors (ECs) have increased large attention in recent years due to their faster charging and discharging process, large specific capacity, and high power density. Herein, we designed the preparation of carbon quantum dots (CQDs), and N-/S-doped CQDs, encapsulated within graphene sheets via a lemon-juice -derived sustainable route for high-performance positive electrode material in supercapacitor application. The as-prepared electrodes revealed an unusual battery-type behavior due to the presence of large number of O-/N-/ S-containing functional groups within the graphitic network of the CQDs-graphene composite, which enhances the redox-active sites. The specific capacities were obtained for CQDs, N-doped, and S-doped CQDs at 284, 181, and 125 mAh/g at 1 A/g current density. The S-doped CQDs delivered 94.5% capacitance retention over 10,000 cycles with 98% Coulombic efficiency. The real-time symmetric supercapacitor was constructed using as -prepared S-doped CQDs with an operated potential window of 1.4 V. The constructed symmetric super -capacitor shows high specific capacity, energy, and power densities of 21.7 mAh/g (55.7 F/g at 1 A/g), 15.2 Wh/ kg, and 700 W/kg, respectively. The outstanding electrochemical results are based on the easy formation of heteroatom doped S and N-CQDs to enhance the better electronic/ionic motion.