AKASH SHARMA - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by AKASH SHARMA

Research paper thumbnail of An Innovative B2C E-commerce Websites Selection using the ME-OWA and Fuzzy AHP

Proceedings of the First International Conference on Information Technology and Knowledge Management, 2018

Today internet has emerged as a huge marketplace of products and services for meeting needs of mo... more Today internet has emerged as a huge marketplace of products and services for meeting needs of more than a million customers worldwide. It provides users a platform to access information globally in electronic form as well as in terms of business transaction, such as,e-payments, e-orders and e-booking etc. The advent of the internet has led to the establishment of electronic commerce. Today a large number of B2C e-commerce websites are available, which makes it difficult not only for the customers to find right product at right price, but also for a company to choose a better site for selling its product. Thus, there is need to rank e-commerce websites in B2C electronic commerce. The objective of this paper is to rank ecommerce websites on the basis of success factors, namely, System Quality, Content Quality, Usages, Trust, Customer Support, Online Customer Feedback and Personalization. Here we have used a two stage approach combining maximum entropyordered weighted averaging aggregation (ME-OWA) with fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) for choosing the best B2C e-commerce website.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Morphology and Doping on the Photoelectrochemical Performance of Zinc Oxide

Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage Systems for Future Sustainability, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Title : Prostate cancer topography and tumour conspicuity on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging : A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background There is great uncertainty regarding the practice of immediate autologous breast recon... more Background There is great uncertainty regarding the practice of immediate autologous breast reconstruction (IBR) when post-mastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) is indicated. Many plastic surgery units differ in their protocols, with some recommending delayed breast reconstruction (DBR) instead. Nevertheless, the cosmetic and psychosocial benefits offered by IBR are significant. The aim of this study was to comprehensively review and analyse existing literature to compare irradiated and unirradiated autologous flaps. Methods A comprehensive search in MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases was conducted in November 2020 for primary studies assessing outcomes of IBR with and without PMRT. Primary outcomes were the incidence of clinical complications, observerand patient-reported outcomes. Meta-analyses were performed to obtain the pooled risk ratio of individual complications where possible. Results Twenty-one articles involving 3817 patients were included. Meta-analysis of pooled data demons...

Research paper thumbnail of Optimization of PET imaging in the pregnant or breast-feeding patient: A comparative view of PET/CT and PET/MR

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Current Scenario and Future Prospects of Shale Gas in India*

Unconventional oil resources are increasingly important in the quest for energy security. There i... more Unconventional oil resources are increasingly important in the quest for energy security. There is concern that conventional oil resources will be unable to meet growing supply requirements. This concern has triggered a scramble to secure long-term oil supplies. In a high oil price environment, unconventional resources are viewed as important and economically attractive components of future oil supplies.

Research paper thumbnail of Karonda and Jamun seeds’ in vitro anticancer efficacy

In the search for potential anticancer agents from fruits, the present research work was carried ... more In the search for potential anticancer agents from fruits, the present research work was carried out to examine the in vitro cytotoxic potential of seed part of Carissa carandas ( karonda ) and Syzygium cumini ( jamun ) against nine human cancer cell lines from eight different origins namely MCF-7, T-47D (breast), SF-295 (CNS), HCT-116 (colon), A-549 (lung), MDA-MB-435 (melanoma), OVCAR-5 (ovary), PC-3 (prostate) and A-498 (renal). Methanolic extracts were used as test material and anticancer activity was determined via SRB assayat 100 μg/mL. Results revealed that seeds suppressed the proliferation of human cancer cells with growth inhibition range of 78-100% ( karonda ) and 71-93% ( jamun ). Karonda seeds exhibited 100% growth inhibition of A-549 and OVCAR-5 cancer cells where as jamun seeds displayed 93% growth inhibition of SF-295 cancer cells. The seeds were then evaluated at lower concentrations of 50, 30, 10 and 1 μg/mL in which seeds exhibit significant in vitro cytotoxic eff...

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract 12131: Comparison of Ultrasonic Cardiac Output Monitor (USCOM) With Other Methods for Cardiac Output Monitoring in Various Clinical Settings and Clinical Outcomes and Costs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Circulation, 2018

Introduction: Cardiac output (CO) measurement and monitoring is crucial for the guidance of diagn... more Introduction: Cardiac output (CO) measurement and monitoring is crucial for the guidance of diagnostic and therapeutic decisions clinically, especially in cardiology, critically ill and surgical pa...

Research paper thumbnail of A study on photoelectrochemical properties of ZnO@ZnS nanostructures synthesized via facile ion-exchange approach

In this work, ZnO nanorods (NRs) were fabricated, on cleaned ITO substrates by using sol-gel spin... more In this work, ZnO nanorods (NRs) were fabricated, on cleaned ITO substrates by using sol-gel spin coating followed by hydrothermal technique. In order to coat zinc sulphide (ZnS) layers on the earlier prepared NRs a facile ion-exchange approach was adopted. The ZnO@ZnS nanostructures so prepared were characterised by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV-visible spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical study. XRD spectra confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure of all the samples along with preferential c-axis orientation. Further it was also observed from the FESEM images that sulfidation process doesn’t affect the structure of ZnO NRs arrays. From the absorption spectra it can be clearly observed that the light absorbing property has increased in within the visible range due to the formation of ZnS layer on the ZnO nanostructures, which is not possible for either of the material individually. The cyclic voltammetry results indicates ...

Research paper thumbnail of Variability in physico-chemical and sensory attributes of mango genotypes under rainfed conditions of Shivalik Foothills of Himalayas

The Asian Journal of Horticulture, 2013

M ango (Mangifera indica L.), popularly known as 'King' of fruits, is the choicest of all the ind... more M ango (Mangifera indica L.), popularly known as 'King' of fruits, is the choicest of all the indigenous fruits amongst millions of people. In India, it is an important fruit showing high heterozygosity and wide genetic variability (Vasugi et al., 2008). In India, mango occupies an area of 2.31 m hectare with a production of 15.03 m MT and productivity of 6.5 MT/ha (NHB, 2010). In Jammu and Kashmir, mango is grown in Jammu province over an area of 11.79 thousand hectare with an annual production of 42.28 thousand MT and productivity of 3.58 MT/ha (Anonymous, 2011) which is too low compared to national average. The probable reason for this low production is lack of knowledge about the cultivars suitable for rainfed conditions of Jammu. About 1000 varieties of mango available in India have not been fully exploited for their quality attributes which varies from region to region. The major problem faced by the mango growers is the selection of cultivars to be planted. The evaluation of mango varieties for rainfed conditions is one of the prerequisite for successful Members of the Research Forum

Research paper thumbnail of One-Step Assembly of Fluorescence-Based Cyanide Sensors from Inexpensive, Off-The-Shelf Materials

Sensors, 2020

We report a simple and versatile approach to assemble sensitive and selective fluorescence “turn-... more We report a simple and versatile approach to assemble sensitive and selective fluorescence “turn-on” sensors for cyanide by combining three off-the-shelf materials; namely fluorescent dye, 1-vinyl imidazole polymer, and cupric chloride. The cyanide-sensing species is a non-fluorescent fluorophore-polymer-Cu2+ complex; which forms as a result of the imidazole polymer’s ability to bind both fluorophore and fluorescence quencher (Cu2+). Cyanide removes Cu2+ from these complexes; thereby “turning-on” sensor fluorescence. These sensors are water-soluble and have a detection limit of ~2.5 μM (CN−) in water. Our ternary complex-based sensing approach also enables facile emission tuning; we demonstrate the convenient, synthesis-free preparation of blue and green-emitting sensors using distyrylbiphenyl and fluorescein fluorophores, respectively. Furthermore; these ternary complexes are easily immobilized using agarose to create cyanide-sensing hydrogels; which are then used in a simple; nove...

Research paper thumbnail of Visible-light induced photosplitting of water using solution-processed Cu2BaSnS4 photoelectrodes and a tandem approach for development of Pt-free photoelectrochemical cell

Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 2021

Abstract In this present work, investigation on the physical and chemical properties of the quate... more Abstract In this present work, investigation on the physical and chemical properties of the quaternary Copper–barium–thiostannate ( Cu 2 BaSnS 4 ) compound was carried out. Cu 2 BaSnS 4 (CBTS) thin films were synthesized by using the cost-effective, sol-gel spin-coating technique without further sulfurization. The light-sensitive nature of CBTS was investigated by illuminating the thin films directly under AM 1.5G condition, resulting in an enhancement of 47% in terms of photocurrent density. The p-type nature was confirmed from the Mott Schottky analysis carried out in 0.5 M Na 2 S solution without illumination. A flat band potential value of 2.354 ± 0.003 V vs. RHE along with a carrier density of 9.314 × 1019 c m − 3 and Debye length of 0.288 nm were also obtained for the CBTS thin films. From Bode plots, the carrier lifetime of CBTS films was estimated to be 88 m s. Further Pt-free photoelectrochemical cells were fabricated by using ZnO nanorods as counter electrodes. From linear sweep voltammetry results, photocurrent density of − 6.805 and − 2.112 mA/cm2 at 0 V (vs. RHE) under illumination in the presence of Pt electrodes and ZnO Nanorods, respectively. Photoconversion efficiency of ∼ 10% and ∼ 4% were estimated for the CBTS thin film in the presence of Pt and ZnO counter electrodes. Thus the physical properties observed here indicate the suitability of solution-processed CBTS thin films in its further use for harvesting solar energy.

Research paper thumbnail of Carney-Stratakis Syndrome presenting as occult mediastinal paraganglioma

Radiology Case Reports, 2020

Carney-Stratakis Syndrome is defined as the combination of a paraganglioma and a gastrointestinal... more Carney-Stratakis Syndrome is defined as the combination of a paraganglioma and a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. This is recognized as unique from the more commonly known Carney Triad, which in addition to the above also has a pulmonary chondroma present. We present a case of Carney-Stratakis Syndrome which highlights the value of multimodality imaging in arriving at the diagnosis, as well as the role of genetic testing for definitively differentiating it from the more commonly recognized Carney Triad.

Research paper thumbnail of Neutral alignment resulting from tibial vara and opposite femoral valgus is the main morphologic pattern in healthy middle-aged patients: an exploration of a 3D-CT database

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 2020

Purpose Given the goal of achieving optimal correction and alignment after knee arthroplasty or h... more Purpose Given the goal of achieving optimal correction and alignment after knee arthroplasty or high tibial osteotomy, literature focusing on the inter-individual variability of the native knee, tibia and femur with regards to the coronal or sagit-tal alignment is lacking. The aim of this study was to analyse normal angular values in the healthy middle-aged population and determine differences of angular values according to inter-individual features. The first hypothesis was that common morphological patterns may be identified in the healthy middle-aged non-osteoarthritic population. The second hypothesis was that high inter-individual variability exists with regards to gender, ethnicity and alignment phenotype. Methods A CT scan-based modelling and analysis system was used to examine the lower limb of 758 normal healthy patients (390 men, 368 women; mean age 58.5 ± 16.4 years) with available data concerning angular values and retrieved from the SOMA database. The hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), posterior distal femoral angle (PDFA), posterior proximal tibial angle (PPTA) and non weight-bearing joint line convergence angle (nwJLCA) were then measured for each patient. Results were analysed for the entire cohort and based on gender, ethnicity and phenotype.

Research paper thumbnail of Measurement of the Posterior Tibial Slope Depends on Ethnicity, Sex, and Lower Limb Alignment: A Computed Tomography Analysis of 378 Healthy Participants

Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, 2020

Background:There is no general consensus on the normal and pathological values for the posterior ... more Background:There is no general consensus on the normal and pathological values for the posterior tibial slope (PTS).Purpose/Hypothesis:The primary aim of this study was to determine standard values for the PTS in healthy participants using 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT). A secondary aim was to determine the effect of demographic factors and coronal-plane lower limb alignment on the PTS measurement. The hypothesis was that the PTS would be significantly influenced by demographic factors and coronal-plane lower limb alignment.Study Design:Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A CT-based modeling and analytics system was used to examine and measure lower limb alignment and the PTS in 378 patients (193 male and 185 female; mean age, 58.3 ± 16.4 years [range, 18-92 years]; mean body mass index, 25.0 ± 4.4 kg/m2). The lateral, medial, and global PTS were measured for each patient. All measurements were constructed using algorithm-calculated landmarks, resulting ...

Research paper thumbnail of Computational micromechanical modeling of transverse tensile damage behavior in unidirectional glass fiber-reinforced plastic composite plies: Ductile versus brittle fracture mechanics approach

International Journal of Damage Mechanics, 2019

A detailed micromechanical finite element analysis methodology is presented to predict the transv... more A detailed micromechanical finite element analysis methodology is presented to predict the transverse tensile (fiber perpendicular) failure behavior of a unidirectional (UD) glass fiber-reinforced plastic composite ply. In order to understand the constituent-level stress–strain and damage behavior, finite element analysis is accomplished using representative volume element (RVE) that consists of random fiber distribution as observed in the microscopic image of an actual composite ply. For modeling the fiber/matrix interface failure behavior, cohesive zone module (cohesive surface/cohesive element) of Abaqus® is used. In order to capture the epoxy matrix stiffness and strength degradation, the following two different approaches are used: (i) initially, the linear Drucker–Prager plasticity model in combination with a ductile fracture criterion is used; (ii) later, a brittle failure approach such as the quadratic normal stress criterion within the framework of eXtended finite element m...

Research paper thumbnail of Buffering the Suffering of Breast Lymphoscintigraphy

Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology, 2019

Research paper thumbnail of SAT-585 Presence of Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Cancer without a Distinct Thyroid Nodule: A Diagnostic Challenge

Journal of the Endocrine Society, 2019

Abstract Introduction Neuroendocrine tumors originate from the GI tract, lungs or endocrine gland... more Abstract Introduction Neuroendocrine tumors originate from the GI tract, lungs or endocrine glands. Diagnosis can be done by different imaging modalities including Octreoscan, MIBG scan, FDG PET/CT and Ga-Dotatate PET/CT. Case 52 year old female with past history of hypertension, presented to an outside facility with complaint of a right lower neck mass, hoarseness and cough. Thyroid ultrasound identified a 0.3 cm right lobe calcific density with no discrete nodules. Neck CT showed right thyroid calcification and a 2.5 cm right supraclavicular mass. A core needle biopsy of the mass was consistent with metastatic low grade neuroendocrine carcinoma. Immunostains were positive for EP-CAM, TTF-1, synaptophysin, CD56 and CK7. Metastatic pulmonary carcinoma was suspected. She was seen at our institution for a multidisciplinary team evaluation. Pathology slides for additional stains were unavailable. Whole body CT showed low suspicion mediastinal lymph nodes. FDG PET/CT showed a 2.6 cm right neck hypermetabolic mass and a tiny calcified density in the right thyroid lobe, but no metastatic disease elsewhere. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided transbronchial biopsy of the mediastinal nodes was negative for cancer. An Octreotide scan showed only right neck mass hypermetabolism. Gallium-68 Dotatate scan had just become available and was able to identify increased uptake in the right supraclavicular region and an additional focus of uptake within the superior aspect of the right thyroid lobe. Fine-needle aspiration of the right thyroid focus was consistent with medullary thyroid carcinoma. Calcitonin was 1268 pg/ml, CEA 1.7 ng/ml and RET proto-oncogene was positive (p.C609Y). She had normal parathyroid hormone, calcium and plasma metanephrines. Total thyroidectomy was performed. Pathology was consistent with right neck metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma with 18/27 lymph nodes involved. Multifocal medullary thyroid carcinoma from 0.2-0.6 cm was found in the right lobe. The left lobe had a 0.2 cm focus of medullary thyroid carcinoma with 1/2 lymph nodes involved. Her most recent neck ultrasound showed a persistent, stable hypoechoic 0.5 cm right lateral neck lesion. Most recent neck CT was unremarkable. PET/CT done 2 months ago showed only mildly prominent mediastinal lymph nodes that are stable compared with 2 years ago. Calcitonin decreased initially from 1268 pg/ml to 321 pg/ml and has now plateaued in the low 500s. CEA and other biomarkers are normal. Patient's daughter and son tested positive for the RET proto-oncogene mutation. Conclusion Metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma without a discrete thyroid nodule is an uncommon presentation. Our patient presented with a metastatic neuroendocrine neck mass and conventional imaging modalities failed to identify the primary site, leading to delay in proper treatment. Ga-Dotatate PET/CT may improve management of patients with neuroendocrine tumors.

Research paper thumbnail of Adding a protective K-wire during opening high tibial osteotomy increases lateral hinge resistance to fracture

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 2019

Purpose It was hypothesized in this in-vitro study that positioning a K-wire intersecting the cut... more Purpose It was hypothesized in this in-vitro study that positioning a K-wire intersecting the cutting plane at the theoretical lateral hinge location would limit the cut depth and help preserve the lateral hinge during the opening of the osteotomy. Objectives were (1) to compare the mechanical resistance of the hinge and the protective effect of leaving the K-wire during the opening procedure (2) to check if the K-wire would limit the depth of the osteotomy. Methods An ex-vivo mechanical study, testing 5 pairs of fresh-frozen tibias, was designed. CT-scan based Patientspecific cutting guides were obtained to define the cutting plane and the location of the K-wire at the hinge, using standardized 3D planning protocol. In each pair, OWHTO was performed either with or without the K-wire. To evaluate the hinge's resistance to fracture, the specimens were rigidly fixed at the proximal tibia and a direct load was applied on the free tibial diaphysis to open the osteotomy. The maximum load at breakage, maximum permissible displacement and maximal angulation of the osteotomy before hinge failure was measured. To assess the preservation of an unscathed hinge (protected by the K-wire), the distance from the end of the osteotomy cut to the lateral tibial cortical was measured in mm. Results The maximum load to hinge breakage in the K-wires PsCG knees compared to the control group (48.3 N vs 5.5 N, p = 0.004), the maximum permissible displacement (19.8 mm vs 7.5 mm, p = 0.005) and the maximal angulation of the osteotomy before hinge breakage (9.9° vs 2.9°, p = 0.002) were all statistically superior in the K-wires PsCG knees compared to the control group. A mean distance of 10 ± 1 mm between cut-bone (saw-print) and lateral hinge cortical bone was found post-performing the osteotomy and the hinge failing. Conclusion The maximum load to breakage and the maximum permissible displacement were, respectively, 880% and 260% higher during the opening of the OWHTO in using K-wires compared to the non-K-wire control group. This confirms the mechanical advantage of using a K-wire for both stabilization and protecting the Hinge during OWHTO. This comparative cadaveric study shows an improvement of the lateral hinges resistance to failing during the opening of the osteotomy. This can be achieved by the placement of a K-wire intersecting the cutting plane at the theoretical location of the lateral hinge.

Research paper thumbnail of In vitro comparative cytotoxicity study of aminated polystyrene, zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles on a cervical cancer cell line

Drug and chemical toxicology, Jan 23, 2018

Nanoparticles use in nano-biotechnology applications have increased significantly with Aminated p... more Nanoparticles use in nano-biotechnology applications have increased significantly with Aminated polystyrene amine (AmPs NP), Zinc oxide (ZnO NP), and Silver (Ag NP) nanoparticles utilized in wide variety of consumer products. This has presented a number of concerns due to their increased exposure risks and associated toxicity on living systems. Changes in the structural and physicochemical properties of nanoparticles can lead to changes in biological activities. This study investigates, compares, and contrasts the potential toxicity of AmPs, ZnO and Ag NPs on an in vitro model (HeLa cells) and assesses the associated mechanism for their corresponding cytotoxicity relative to the surface material. It was noted that NPs exposure attributed to the reduction in cell viability and high-level induction of oxidative stress. All three test particles were noted to induce ROS to varying degrees which is irrespective of the attached surface group. Cell cycle analysis indicated a G2/M phase cel...

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Biofertilizers and Organic Manures on Plant Growth, Flowering and Tuber Production of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) Cv. S.P. Kamala

International Journal of Pure & Applied Bioscience, 2017

An investigation was made to determine the "Effect of bio-fertilizers and organic manures on qual... more An investigation was made to determine the "Effect of bio-fertilizers and organic manures on quality parameter of turmeric during Kharif and Rabi season of 2012-2013. Among the treatment combinations, T7 O3 B1 (VC 5t/ha + Azospirillum 5kg/ha) recorded maximum 4.94% essential oil and was significantly lowest 2.11% in treatment combination T1 (O0 B0 No organic manure + No bio-fertilizer i.e. control). With regards to organic manures, the treatment O3 (Vermicompost 5t/ha) resulted significantly maximum essential oil 4.51% and with least (2.87%) under the treatment O1 (No organic manures) whereas, with regard to bio-fertilizers, Treatment B1 (Azospirillum 5 kg/ha) exhibited maximum 3.98% essential oil in leaves, while the treatment B0 (No bio-fertilizer) was recorded the minimum 3.25% essential oil in leaves.

Research paper thumbnail of An Innovative B2C E-commerce Websites Selection using the ME-OWA and Fuzzy AHP

Proceedings of the First International Conference on Information Technology and Knowledge Management, 2018

Today internet has emerged as a huge marketplace of products and services for meeting needs of mo... more Today internet has emerged as a huge marketplace of products and services for meeting needs of more than a million customers worldwide. It provides users a platform to access information globally in electronic form as well as in terms of business transaction, such as,e-payments, e-orders and e-booking etc. The advent of the internet has led to the establishment of electronic commerce. Today a large number of B2C e-commerce websites are available, which makes it difficult not only for the customers to find right product at right price, but also for a company to choose a better site for selling its product. Thus, there is need to rank e-commerce websites in B2C electronic commerce. The objective of this paper is to rank ecommerce websites on the basis of success factors, namely, System Quality, Content Quality, Usages, Trust, Customer Support, Online Customer Feedback and Personalization. Here we have used a two stage approach combining maximum entropyordered weighted averaging aggregation (ME-OWA) with fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) for choosing the best B2C e-commerce website.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Morphology and Doping on the Photoelectrochemical Performance of Zinc Oxide

Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage Systems for Future Sustainability, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Title : Prostate cancer topography and tumour conspicuity on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging : A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background There is great uncertainty regarding the practice of immediate autologous breast recon... more Background There is great uncertainty regarding the practice of immediate autologous breast reconstruction (IBR) when post-mastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) is indicated. Many plastic surgery units differ in their protocols, with some recommending delayed breast reconstruction (DBR) instead. Nevertheless, the cosmetic and psychosocial benefits offered by IBR are significant. The aim of this study was to comprehensively review and analyse existing literature to compare irradiated and unirradiated autologous flaps. Methods A comprehensive search in MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases was conducted in November 2020 for primary studies assessing outcomes of IBR with and without PMRT. Primary outcomes were the incidence of clinical complications, observerand patient-reported outcomes. Meta-analyses were performed to obtain the pooled risk ratio of individual complications where possible. Results Twenty-one articles involving 3817 patients were included. Meta-analysis of pooled data demons...

Research paper thumbnail of Optimization of PET imaging in the pregnant or breast-feeding patient: A comparative view of PET/CT and PET/MR

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Current Scenario and Future Prospects of Shale Gas in India*

Unconventional oil resources are increasingly important in the quest for energy security. There i... more Unconventional oil resources are increasingly important in the quest for energy security. There is concern that conventional oil resources will be unable to meet growing supply requirements. This concern has triggered a scramble to secure long-term oil supplies. In a high oil price environment, unconventional resources are viewed as important and economically attractive components of future oil supplies.

Research paper thumbnail of Karonda and Jamun seeds’ in vitro anticancer efficacy

In the search for potential anticancer agents from fruits, the present research work was carried ... more In the search for potential anticancer agents from fruits, the present research work was carried out to examine the in vitro cytotoxic potential of seed part of Carissa carandas ( karonda ) and Syzygium cumini ( jamun ) against nine human cancer cell lines from eight different origins namely MCF-7, T-47D (breast), SF-295 (CNS), HCT-116 (colon), A-549 (lung), MDA-MB-435 (melanoma), OVCAR-5 (ovary), PC-3 (prostate) and A-498 (renal). Methanolic extracts were used as test material and anticancer activity was determined via SRB assayat 100 μg/mL. Results revealed that seeds suppressed the proliferation of human cancer cells with growth inhibition range of 78-100% ( karonda ) and 71-93% ( jamun ). Karonda seeds exhibited 100% growth inhibition of A-549 and OVCAR-5 cancer cells where as jamun seeds displayed 93% growth inhibition of SF-295 cancer cells. The seeds were then evaluated at lower concentrations of 50, 30, 10 and 1 μg/mL in which seeds exhibit significant in vitro cytotoxic eff...

Research paper thumbnail of Abstract 12131: Comparison of Ultrasonic Cardiac Output Monitor (USCOM) With Other Methods for Cardiac Output Monitoring in Various Clinical Settings and Clinical Outcomes and Costs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Circulation, 2018

Introduction: Cardiac output (CO) measurement and monitoring is crucial for the guidance of diagn... more Introduction: Cardiac output (CO) measurement and monitoring is crucial for the guidance of diagnostic and therapeutic decisions clinically, especially in cardiology, critically ill and surgical pa...

Research paper thumbnail of A study on photoelectrochemical properties of ZnO@ZnS nanostructures synthesized via facile ion-exchange approach

In this work, ZnO nanorods (NRs) were fabricated, on cleaned ITO substrates by using sol-gel spin... more In this work, ZnO nanorods (NRs) were fabricated, on cleaned ITO substrates by using sol-gel spin coating followed by hydrothermal technique. In order to coat zinc sulphide (ZnS) layers on the earlier prepared NRs a facile ion-exchange approach was adopted. The ZnO@ZnS nanostructures so prepared were characterised by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV-visible spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical study. XRD spectra confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure of all the samples along with preferential c-axis orientation. Further it was also observed from the FESEM images that sulfidation process doesn’t affect the structure of ZnO NRs arrays. From the absorption spectra it can be clearly observed that the light absorbing property has increased in within the visible range due to the formation of ZnS layer on the ZnO nanostructures, which is not possible for either of the material individually. The cyclic voltammetry results indicates ...

Research paper thumbnail of Variability in physico-chemical and sensory attributes of mango genotypes under rainfed conditions of Shivalik Foothills of Himalayas

The Asian Journal of Horticulture, 2013

M ango (Mangifera indica L.), popularly known as 'King' of fruits, is the choicest of all the ind... more M ango (Mangifera indica L.), popularly known as 'King' of fruits, is the choicest of all the indigenous fruits amongst millions of people. In India, it is an important fruit showing high heterozygosity and wide genetic variability (Vasugi et al., 2008). In India, mango occupies an area of 2.31 m hectare with a production of 15.03 m MT and productivity of 6.5 MT/ha (NHB, 2010). In Jammu and Kashmir, mango is grown in Jammu province over an area of 11.79 thousand hectare with an annual production of 42.28 thousand MT and productivity of 3.58 MT/ha (Anonymous, 2011) which is too low compared to national average. The probable reason for this low production is lack of knowledge about the cultivars suitable for rainfed conditions of Jammu. About 1000 varieties of mango available in India have not been fully exploited for their quality attributes which varies from region to region. The major problem faced by the mango growers is the selection of cultivars to be planted. The evaluation of mango varieties for rainfed conditions is one of the prerequisite for successful Members of the Research Forum

Research paper thumbnail of One-Step Assembly of Fluorescence-Based Cyanide Sensors from Inexpensive, Off-The-Shelf Materials

Sensors, 2020

We report a simple and versatile approach to assemble sensitive and selective fluorescence “turn-... more We report a simple and versatile approach to assemble sensitive and selective fluorescence “turn-on” sensors for cyanide by combining three off-the-shelf materials; namely fluorescent dye, 1-vinyl imidazole polymer, and cupric chloride. The cyanide-sensing species is a non-fluorescent fluorophore-polymer-Cu2+ complex; which forms as a result of the imidazole polymer’s ability to bind both fluorophore and fluorescence quencher (Cu2+). Cyanide removes Cu2+ from these complexes; thereby “turning-on” sensor fluorescence. These sensors are water-soluble and have a detection limit of ~2.5 μM (CN−) in water. Our ternary complex-based sensing approach also enables facile emission tuning; we demonstrate the convenient, synthesis-free preparation of blue and green-emitting sensors using distyrylbiphenyl and fluorescein fluorophores, respectively. Furthermore; these ternary complexes are easily immobilized using agarose to create cyanide-sensing hydrogels; which are then used in a simple; nove...

Research paper thumbnail of Visible-light induced photosplitting of water using solution-processed Cu2BaSnS4 photoelectrodes and a tandem approach for development of Pt-free photoelectrochemical cell

Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 2021

Abstract In this present work, investigation on the physical and chemical properties of the quate... more Abstract In this present work, investigation on the physical and chemical properties of the quaternary Copper–barium–thiostannate ( Cu 2 BaSnS 4 ) compound was carried out. Cu 2 BaSnS 4 (CBTS) thin films were synthesized by using the cost-effective, sol-gel spin-coating technique without further sulfurization. The light-sensitive nature of CBTS was investigated by illuminating the thin films directly under AM 1.5G condition, resulting in an enhancement of 47% in terms of photocurrent density. The p-type nature was confirmed from the Mott Schottky analysis carried out in 0.5 M Na 2 S solution without illumination. A flat band potential value of 2.354 ± 0.003 V vs. RHE along with a carrier density of 9.314 × 1019 c m − 3 and Debye length of 0.288 nm were also obtained for the CBTS thin films. From Bode plots, the carrier lifetime of CBTS films was estimated to be 88 m s. Further Pt-free photoelectrochemical cells were fabricated by using ZnO nanorods as counter electrodes. From linear sweep voltammetry results, photocurrent density of − 6.805 and − 2.112 mA/cm2 at 0 V (vs. RHE) under illumination in the presence of Pt electrodes and ZnO Nanorods, respectively. Photoconversion efficiency of ∼ 10% and ∼ 4% were estimated for the CBTS thin film in the presence of Pt and ZnO counter electrodes. Thus the physical properties observed here indicate the suitability of solution-processed CBTS thin films in its further use for harvesting solar energy.

Research paper thumbnail of Carney-Stratakis Syndrome presenting as occult mediastinal paraganglioma

Radiology Case Reports, 2020

Carney-Stratakis Syndrome is defined as the combination of a paraganglioma and a gastrointestinal... more Carney-Stratakis Syndrome is defined as the combination of a paraganglioma and a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. This is recognized as unique from the more commonly known Carney Triad, which in addition to the above also has a pulmonary chondroma present. We present a case of Carney-Stratakis Syndrome which highlights the value of multimodality imaging in arriving at the diagnosis, as well as the role of genetic testing for definitively differentiating it from the more commonly recognized Carney Triad.

Research paper thumbnail of Neutral alignment resulting from tibial vara and opposite femoral valgus is the main morphologic pattern in healthy middle-aged patients: an exploration of a 3D-CT database

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 2020

Purpose Given the goal of achieving optimal correction and alignment after knee arthroplasty or h... more Purpose Given the goal of achieving optimal correction and alignment after knee arthroplasty or high tibial osteotomy, literature focusing on the inter-individual variability of the native knee, tibia and femur with regards to the coronal or sagit-tal alignment is lacking. The aim of this study was to analyse normal angular values in the healthy middle-aged population and determine differences of angular values according to inter-individual features. The first hypothesis was that common morphological patterns may be identified in the healthy middle-aged non-osteoarthritic population. The second hypothesis was that high inter-individual variability exists with regards to gender, ethnicity and alignment phenotype. Methods A CT scan-based modelling and analysis system was used to examine the lower limb of 758 normal healthy patients (390 men, 368 women; mean age 58.5 ± 16.4 years) with available data concerning angular values and retrieved from the SOMA database. The hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), posterior distal femoral angle (PDFA), posterior proximal tibial angle (PPTA) and non weight-bearing joint line convergence angle (nwJLCA) were then measured for each patient. Results were analysed for the entire cohort and based on gender, ethnicity and phenotype.

Research paper thumbnail of Measurement of the Posterior Tibial Slope Depends on Ethnicity, Sex, and Lower Limb Alignment: A Computed Tomography Analysis of 378 Healthy Participants

Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, 2020

Background:There is no general consensus on the normal and pathological values for the posterior ... more Background:There is no general consensus on the normal and pathological values for the posterior tibial slope (PTS).Purpose/Hypothesis:The primary aim of this study was to determine standard values for the PTS in healthy participants using 3-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT). A secondary aim was to determine the effect of demographic factors and coronal-plane lower limb alignment on the PTS measurement. The hypothesis was that the PTS would be significantly influenced by demographic factors and coronal-plane lower limb alignment.Study Design:Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A CT-based modeling and analytics system was used to examine and measure lower limb alignment and the PTS in 378 patients (193 male and 185 female; mean age, 58.3 ± 16.4 years [range, 18-92 years]; mean body mass index, 25.0 ± 4.4 kg/m2). The lateral, medial, and global PTS were measured for each patient. All measurements were constructed using algorithm-calculated landmarks, resulting ...

Research paper thumbnail of Computational micromechanical modeling of transverse tensile damage behavior in unidirectional glass fiber-reinforced plastic composite plies: Ductile versus brittle fracture mechanics approach

International Journal of Damage Mechanics, 2019

A detailed micromechanical finite element analysis methodology is presented to predict the transv... more A detailed micromechanical finite element analysis methodology is presented to predict the transverse tensile (fiber perpendicular) failure behavior of a unidirectional (UD) glass fiber-reinforced plastic composite ply. In order to understand the constituent-level stress–strain and damage behavior, finite element analysis is accomplished using representative volume element (RVE) that consists of random fiber distribution as observed in the microscopic image of an actual composite ply. For modeling the fiber/matrix interface failure behavior, cohesive zone module (cohesive surface/cohesive element) of Abaqus® is used. In order to capture the epoxy matrix stiffness and strength degradation, the following two different approaches are used: (i) initially, the linear Drucker–Prager plasticity model in combination with a ductile fracture criterion is used; (ii) later, a brittle failure approach such as the quadratic normal stress criterion within the framework of eXtended finite element m...

Research paper thumbnail of Buffering the Suffering of Breast Lymphoscintigraphy

Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology, 2019

Research paper thumbnail of SAT-585 Presence of Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Cancer without a Distinct Thyroid Nodule: A Diagnostic Challenge

Journal of the Endocrine Society, 2019

Abstract Introduction Neuroendocrine tumors originate from the GI tract, lungs or endocrine gland... more Abstract Introduction Neuroendocrine tumors originate from the GI tract, lungs or endocrine glands. Diagnosis can be done by different imaging modalities including Octreoscan, MIBG scan, FDG PET/CT and Ga-Dotatate PET/CT. Case 52 year old female with past history of hypertension, presented to an outside facility with complaint of a right lower neck mass, hoarseness and cough. Thyroid ultrasound identified a 0.3 cm right lobe calcific density with no discrete nodules. Neck CT showed right thyroid calcification and a 2.5 cm right supraclavicular mass. A core needle biopsy of the mass was consistent with metastatic low grade neuroendocrine carcinoma. Immunostains were positive for EP-CAM, TTF-1, synaptophysin, CD56 and CK7. Metastatic pulmonary carcinoma was suspected. She was seen at our institution for a multidisciplinary team evaluation. Pathology slides for additional stains were unavailable. Whole body CT showed low suspicion mediastinal lymph nodes. FDG PET/CT showed a 2.6 cm right neck hypermetabolic mass and a tiny calcified density in the right thyroid lobe, but no metastatic disease elsewhere. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided transbronchial biopsy of the mediastinal nodes was negative for cancer. An Octreotide scan showed only right neck mass hypermetabolism. Gallium-68 Dotatate scan had just become available and was able to identify increased uptake in the right supraclavicular region and an additional focus of uptake within the superior aspect of the right thyroid lobe. Fine-needle aspiration of the right thyroid focus was consistent with medullary thyroid carcinoma. Calcitonin was 1268 pg/ml, CEA 1.7 ng/ml and RET proto-oncogene was positive (p.C609Y). She had normal parathyroid hormone, calcium and plasma metanephrines. Total thyroidectomy was performed. Pathology was consistent with right neck metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma with 18/27 lymph nodes involved. Multifocal medullary thyroid carcinoma from 0.2-0.6 cm was found in the right lobe. The left lobe had a 0.2 cm focus of medullary thyroid carcinoma with 1/2 lymph nodes involved. Her most recent neck ultrasound showed a persistent, stable hypoechoic 0.5 cm right lateral neck lesion. Most recent neck CT was unremarkable. PET/CT done 2 months ago showed only mildly prominent mediastinal lymph nodes that are stable compared with 2 years ago. Calcitonin decreased initially from 1268 pg/ml to 321 pg/ml and has now plateaued in the low 500s. CEA and other biomarkers are normal. Patient's daughter and son tested positive for the RET proto-oncogene mutation. Conclusion Metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma without a discrete thyroid nodule is an uncommon presentation. Our patient presented with a metastatic neuroendocrine neck mass and conventional imaging modalities failed to identify the primary site, leading to delay in proper treatment. Ga-Dotatate PET/CT may improve management of patients with neuroendocrine tumors.

Research paper thumbnail of Adding a protective K-wire during opening high tibial osteotomy increases lateral hinge resistance to fracture

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 2019

Purpose It was hypothesized in this in-vitro study that positioning a K-wire intersecting the cut... more Purpose It was hypothesized in this in-vitro study that positioning a K-wire intersecting the cutting plane at the theoretical lateral hinge location would limit the cut depth and help preserve the lateral hinge during the opening of the osteotomy. Objectives were (1) to compare the mechanical resistance of the hinge and the protective effect of leaving the K-wire during the opening procedure (2) to check if the K-wire would limit the depth of the osteotomy. Methods An ex-vivo mechanical study, testing 5 pairs of fresh-frozen tibias, was designed. CT-scan based Patientspecific cutting guides were obtained to define the cutting plane and the location of the K-wire at the hinge, using standardized 3D planning protocol. In each pair, OWHTO was performed either with or without the K-wire. To evaluate the hinge's resistance to fracture, the specimens were rigidly fixed at the proximal tibia and a direct load was applied on the free tibial diaphysis to open the osteotomy. The maximum load at breakage, maximum permissible displacement and maximal angulation of the osteotomy before hinge failure was measured. To assess the preservation of an unscathed hinge (protected by the K-wire), the distance from the end of the osteotomy cut to the lateral tibial cortical was measured in mm. Results The maximum load to hinge breakage in the K-wires PsCG knees compared to the control group (48.3 N vs 5.5 N, p = 0.004), the maximum permissible displacement (19.8 mm vs 7.5 mm, p = 0.005) and the maximal angulation of the osteotomy before hinge breakage (9.9° vs 2.9°, p = 0.002) were all statistically superior in the K-wires PsCG knees compared to the control group. A mean distance of 10 ± 1 mm between cut-bone (saw-print) and lateral hinge cortical bone was found post-performing the osteotomy and the hinge failing. Conclusion The maximum load to breakage and the maximum permissible displacement were, respectively, 880% and 260% higher during the opening of the OWHTO in using K-wires compared to the non-K-wire control group. This confirms the mechanical advantage of using a K-wire for both stabilization and protecting the Hinge during OWHTO. This comparative cadaveric study shows an improvement of the lateral hinges resistance to failing during the opening of the osteotomy. This can be achieved by the placement of a K-wire intersecting the cutting plane at the theoretical location of the lateral hinge.

Research paper thumbnail of In vitro comparative cytotoxicity study of aminated polystyrene, zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles on a cervical cancer cell line

Drug and chemical toxicology, Jan 23, 2018

Nanoparticles use in nano-biotechnology applications have increased significantly with Aminated p... more Nanoparticles use in nano-biotechnology applications have increased significantly with Aminated polystyrene amine (AmPs NP), Zinc oxide (ZnO NP), and Silver (Ag NP) nanoparticles utilized in wide variety of consumer products. This has presented a number of concerns due to their increased exposure risks and associated toxicity on living systems. Changes in the structural and physicochemical properties of nanoparticles can lead to changes in biological activities. This study investigates, compares, and contrasts the potential toxicity of AmPs, ZnO and Ag NPs on an in vitro model (HeLa cells) and assesses the associated mechanism for their corresponding cytotoxicity relative to the surface material. It was noted that NPs exposure attributed to the reduction in cell viability and high-level induction of oxidative stress. All three test particles were noted to induce ROS to varying degrees which is irrespective of the attached surface group. Cell cycle analysis indicated a G2/M phase cel...

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Biofertilizers and Organic Manures on Plant Growth, Flowering and Tuber Production of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) Cv. S.P. Kamala

International Journal of Pure & Applied Bioscience, 2017

An investigation was made to determine the "Effect of bio-fertilizers and organic manures on qual... more An investigation was made to determine the "Effect of bio-fertilizers and organic manures on quality parameter of turmeric during Kharif and Rabi season of 2012-2013. Among the treatment combinations, T7 O3 B1 (VC 5t/ha + Azospirillum 5kg/ha) recorded maximum 4.94% essential oil and was significantly lowest 2.11% in treatment combination T1 (O0 B0 No organic manure + No bio-fertilizer i.e. control). With regards to organic manures, the treatment O3 (Vermicompost 5t/ha) resulted significantly maximum essential oil 4.51% and with least (2.87%) under the treatment O1 (No organic manures) whereas, with regard to bio-fertilizers, Treatment B1 (Azospirillum 5 kg/ha) exhibited maximum 3.98% essential oil in leaves, while the treatment B0 (No bio-fertilizer) was recorded the minimum 3.25% essential oil in leaves.