Management of critically ill obstetric patients: A review

Critically ill obstetric patients present a unique challenge as outcome of indwelling life is dependent upon the maternal well-being. Optimal patient management involves early detection and the multidisciplinary treatment by obstetricians, pediatricians, and anesthesiologists based on knowledge of physiological and pathophysiological alterations. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the available literature for the management of critically ill obstetric patient and recent update on commonly encountered situations

Opioid-sparing effects of the thoracic interfascial plane blocks: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background: Thoracic interfascial plane blocks and modification (PECS) have recently gained popularity for analgesic potential during breast surgery. We evaluate/consolidate the evidence on opioid-sparing effect of PECS blocks in comparison with conventional intravenous analgesia (IVA) and paravertebral block (PVB). Materials and Methods: Prospective, randomized controlled trials comparing PECS block to conventional IVA or PVB in patients undergoing breast surgery published till June 2017 were searched in the medical database. Comparisons were made for 24-h postoperative morphine consumption and intraoperative fentanyl-equivalent consumption. Results: Final analysis included nine trials (PECS vs. IVA 4 trials and PECS vs. PVB 5 trials). PECS block showed a decreased intraoperative fentanyl consumption over IVA by 49.20 mcg (95% confidence interval [CI] =42.67–55.74) (I2 = 98.47%, P < 0.001) and PVB by 15.88 mcg (95% CI = 12.95–18.81) (I2 = 95.51%, P < 0.001). Postoperative, 24-h morphine consumption with PECS block was lower than IVA by 7.66 mg (95% CI being 6.23–9.10) (I2 = 63.15, P < 0.001) but was higher than PVB group by 1.26 mg (95% CI being 0.91–1.62) (I2 = 99.53%, P < 0.001). Two cases of pneumothorax were reported with PVB, and no complication was reported in any other group. Conclusions: Use of PECS block and its modifications with general anesthesia for breast surgery has significant opioid-sparing effect intraoperatively and during the first 24 h after surgery. It also has higher intraoperative opioid-sparing effect when compared to PVB. During the 1st postoperative day, PVB has slightly more morphine sparing potential that may however be associated with higher complication rates. The present PECS block techniques show marked interstudy variations and need standardization

A Review of Current Developments in The Detection of Brain Cancer Using Machine Learning: A Systematic Analysis of Methodology, Comparisons, Results and Challenges

Among the deadliest illnesses that is not initially recognized in the context of cancer is brain cancer. Cancerous cells are created when cells proliferate quickly and uncontrollably. The changes in tumour location, size, and shape severely impair the ability to detect brain cancers. The wrong diagnosis of a brain tumour can have terrible and fatal consequences. So there is need of high level accuracy to find the tumor classification. &nbsp;The categorization, segmentation, analysis, and detection of brain cancer are the main topics of this work. In order to aid researchers, This study intends to offer an extensive exploration of the existing literature regarding brain tumor identification through the utilization of magnetic resonance imaging. Three different types of medical imaging for brain cancer were subjected to machine learning approaches (feature extraction, augmentation methods, segmentation, and anatomy of brain tumours) and identifies current issues that must be resolved for various machine learning algorithms to be applied widely in the treatment of personalised brain cancer. Ultimately, this comprehensive review compiles relevant scholarly works concerning brain tumor detection, accentuating its advantages, limitations, progressions, and challenges, thus paving the way for potential forthcoming investigations

Exploring Machine Learning Approaches for Predicting Brain Tumors: A Comparative Study

Brain tumours present a significant health challenge worldwide, necessitating accurate and timely prediction for improved patient outcomes. ML techniques have emerged as promising tools for brain tumour prediction, leveraging their ability to learn from vast datasets and identify complex patterns within medical images. In this paper, we conduct a comparative analysis of various machine learning algorithms to assess their effectiveness in predicting brain tumour presence and classifying tumour types based on medical imaging data. The dataset used in this research consists of a diverse collection of brain MRI scans, encompassing both tumour-afflicted and healthy brain samples. We preprocess the data to ensure uniformity and feature extraction, which includes texture analysis, intensity histogram, and shape descriptors, to represent the regions of interest effectively. In this research endeavor, we assess and juxtapose eight distinct machine learning algorithms. The algorithms subjected to scrutiny encompass SVM, Random Forest, Decision Tree, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Cat Boost. Each of these algorithms undergoes comprehensive training and meticulous testing using a preprocessed dataset. The primary objective of this evaluation is to gauge their predictive capabilities across a spectrum of performance metrics, which includes accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and the area beneath the ROC curve. The results indicate that all algorithms demonstrate respectable prediction capabilities, with SVM and Neural Networks exhibiting the highest accuracy and sensitivity. However, the performance of each algorithm varies concerning computational efficiency and interpretability. SVM proves to be efficient and reliable in predicting tumour presence, while Neural Networks offer robustness in predicting tumour subtypes. In conclusion, this study provides an exhaustive comparative analysis of ML algorithms for brain tumour prediction. The findings contribute valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each algorithm, guiding medical practitioners and researchers in selecting appropriate techniques for brain tumour classification and advancing the field of medical image analysis for improved brain tumour diagnostics. Future research should focus on addressing the identified challenges and exploring ensemble methods to further enhance the accuracy and reliability of brain tumour prediction models

Insights on bio-functional properties of Myrica esculenta plant for nutritional and livelihood security

Wild fruits growing in remote areas are a valuable source of food and income for local communities but are often overlooked and underutilized. Himalayan bayberry (Myrica esculenta) is a member of the Myrica genus that contains 97 species. With its high nutritional content, Myrica esculenta has the potential to provide food security and income for rural communities. The fruit of Myrica esculenta contains ascorbic acids, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids. The main compounds found in the fruit are hydroxybenzoic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, catechin, ellagic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, chlorogenic acid, and myricetin. It is also a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamin C. Therefore, fruits are used in the making of many foods and beverages like jams, syrups, etc. It has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities. Therefore, it is important to recognize and support the utilization of these underutilized wild fruits to unlock their full potential for both local communities and the wider population

Micro-algae: Revolutionizing food production for a healthy and sustainable future

The concept of developing innovative functional food products has attracted the attention of many researchers to meet global demands as well as keep into account the well-being of people and environmental sustainability. Microalgae can be an essential raw material to fulfill such an objective. They can potentially provide a long-term solution to feed the expanding global population. This is evident by the presence of characteristics possessed by microalgae such as high biomass productivity, remarkable nutritional qualities, appealing organoleptic features, and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress. When compared to traditional crop species, algae have a higher concentration of lipids and proteins and are more environmentally friendly because they lack cellulose, which is an inedible material. Moreover, despite the existing obstacles such as poor technology preparedness and restricted economies of scale, micro-algae holds promise for a future where healthier and more sustainable food items can contribute to better dietary habits, lifestyles, and overall health. This review attempts to emphasize the potential of microalgae as a healthy and sustainable dietary alternative. Moreover, the significance of bioactive metabolites obtained from microalgae in reducing greenhouse gases, sewage treatment, bioremediation, photocatalytic degradation, production of nanoparticles, nutraceuticals, and abiotic stress resilience. The selection of suitable and cost-efficient cultivation and harvesting techniques required for growing microalgae and manufacturing its products will be a boon to many food industries

Soil Nutrient Status and Morphometric Responses of Guava under Drip Irrigation and High-Tech Horticultural Techniques for Sustainable Farming

In the current study, efforts were made to standardize fertigation for providing the recommended doses of fertilizers (RDF) i.e., 300, 260, and 200 g/plant/year for N, P, and K, respectively, together with optimization of irrigation scheduling so that guava plants could avoid the frequent episodes of nutritional stress, water scarcity, or overwatering. The experiment’s execution was confined to a three-factor randomized block design, with a total of 19 treatments that were replicated four times. Briefly, these treatments included drip irrigation and nutrient (NPK) application through fertigation dosages (RDF; 100, 80, and 60%) with and without silver-black plastic mulching. Different applied fertilizer dosages, together with different levels of irrigation and soil mulching, had a significant impact on the guava plant’s vegetative, reproductive, and nutritional aspects. Under silver-black plastic mulch, drip irrigation at cumulative pan evaporation (CPE) 80 and 100% of the prescribed dosage of fertilizers, better macronutrient availability in the soil, and improved plant development were recorded (M1DI2F1). Overall, using drip fertigation to provide NPK fertilizers close to the root zone increased the availability of nutrients to the plants as compared to the traditional fertigation and irrigation methods. Thus, this sustainable high-tech horticultural approach could be analyzed for its efficacy or applied to other crops to obtain adequate economic outcomes

Insights into the harvesting tools and equipment's for horticultural crops: From then to now

The evolution of harvesting tools and equipment for horticultural crops has significantly shaped agricultural practices over time. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the journey from historical methods to modern innovations in harvesting technology. The intricate interplay between technological advancements and horticultural practices is explored, highlighting pivotal developments that have revolutionized crop harvesting. Starting with traditional methods employed in the past, we delve into the challenges faced by early horticulturists and the ingenious solutions they devised. The review then transitions to the contemporary landscape, showcasing cutting-edge tools that have emerged through scientific breakthroughs and engineering ingenuity. Noteworthy advancements in machinery design, automation, and precision techniques are discussed, illustrating their profound impact on crop yield, labor efficiency, and overall sustainability.Key insights into the integration of robotics, sensor technologies, and artificial intelligence in modern harvesting equipment are presented, underscoring their potential to further optimize horticultural practices. The paper also addresses the importance of ergonomic considerations and environmental concerns in shaping the future of harvesting tools. Through a comprehensive examination of historical roots and present-day innovations, this review provides a panoramic view of the evolution of harvesting tools and equipment for horticultural crops. By tracing this trajectory, we gain a deeper understanding of how technological progress continues to reshape and enhance the dynamics of crop harvesting, paving the way for more efficient, sustainable, and productive agricultural systems

Plasma treatment: An alternative and sustainable green approach for decontamination of mycotoxin in dried food products

In the realm of food safety, dried foods have traditionally been perceived as having a lower risk profile. However, recent reports have highlighted concerning levels of mycotoxin contamination in dried food products, such as dried fruits, vegetables, and spices, exceeding permissible limits. This contamination not only compromises shelf life but also poses a significant threat to consumers, while depleting the bioactive components of these products. The food industry grapples with considerable challenges arising from the substantial risk of mycotoxin contamination in dried foods. To meet the demands of a disc; erning food market, there is an imperative need for sustainable mycotoxin-degrading technologies. These technologies must be non-thermal and chemical-free, minimizing thermal damage to treated food to preserve essential nutrients, ultimately enhancing food quality and safety. Developing non-thermal decontamination technologies for dried foods holds enormous economic and public health significance.This review centers its focus on the decontamination of dried foods, proposing a green approach through the utilization of Cold Plasma Technology (CPT). We delve into the working principles and applications of CPT in dried foods, highlight the influential factors affecting its efficacy, and acknowledge the limitations of this innovative technique. Furthermore, we pinpoint and explore emerging research opportunities in the decontamination of dried foods, particularly in conjunction with other complementary methods. CPT, an evolving and environmentally friendly technology, exhibits promising capabilities in controlling pathogens in dried food products and extending their shelf life. Critical determinants encompass the parameters of cold plasma, operational conditions, food-related variables, and microbiological factors, which collectively influence the efficacy of CPT. We advocate for future research dedicated to assessing the impact of CPT on various mycotoxins, food composition, and its interaction with food-related factors. In this vein, it is imperative to emphasize the scaling up of this technology for practical commercial applications, addressing the growing need for enhanced food safety in dried products

Comprehensive review of sustainable utilization of Arenga obtusifolia Griff. as a food

This review delves into the utilization of non-conventional starch sources through a specific cultural lens, focusing on the practices and significance of Arenga obtusifolia Griff., commonly referred to as the sugar palm, and its derivative product called Tassey. The tassey is widely popular in the Nyishi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, India, a region renowned for its biodiversity and abundant palm tree varieties, including the sugar palm. Highlighting the multifaceted dimensions of the sugar palm, this review expounds upon Tassey's creation, consumption, and versatile applications. Tassey, a substance extracted from the sugar palm's stem, emerges as a pivotal element of the Nyishi tribe's cultural heritage and sustenance strategies, especially during times of scarcity and natural calamities. This review sheds light on the integral role played by Nyishi women in the cultivation and preparation of tassey, underscoring their vital contribution to upholding this time-honoured practice. Furthermore, the economic ramifications of tassey production and its commercial viability are explored, elucidating its role in bolstering the tribe's livelihood. Extending beyond its dietary role, tassey exhibits a diverse array of applications, spanning from human consumption to its incorporation in the crafting of traditional alcoholic beverages and even as a therapeutic resource for livestock. By offering insights into the profound relationship between the Nyishi tribe and the sugar palm, this review enriches our comprehension of traditional ecological wisdom and sustainable exploitation of resources within a culturally vibrant backdrop. Ultimately, this comprehensive exploration contributes to a nuanced appreciation of the intricate interplay between heritage, environment, and innovation in this distinctive region