Chip Architecture for Data Sorting Using Recursive Algorithm

“This paper suggests a way to implement recursive algorithm on hardware with an example of sorting of numeric data. Every recursive call/return needs a mechanism to store/restore parameters, local variables and return addresses respectively. Also a control sequence is needed to control the flow of execution as in case of recursive call and recursive return. The number of states required for the execution of a recursion in hardware can be reduced compared with software. This paper describes all the details that are required to implement recursive algorithm in hardware. For implementation, all the entities are designed using VHDL and are synthesized, configured on Spartan-2 XC2S200-5PQ208.

Surface To Surface Map Algorithm For Protein - Small Molecule Matching

Current methods for protein analysis are based on either sequence similarity or comparison of overall tertiary structure. These conserved primary sequences or 3-dimensional structures may imply similar functional characteristics. However, substrate or ligand binding sites usually reside on or near protein surface, so, similarly shaped surface regions could imply similar functions. Our current work includes development of an algorithm that would allow surface matching over specific regions on related proteins with an output equal to the match percentage between two proteins. Initial results indicate that we can successfully match a family of related active sites, and find their similarly shaped surface regions. This method of surface analysis could be extended to help us understand functional surface relationship between the proteins within which there is no relationship in sequence or overall structure

Placental biometry for prediction of small for gestational age fetuses in low resource setting

Background: Small for gestational age refers to foetuses with birth weight less than tenth centile for gestational age. Such foetuses are at increased risk of intrauterine fatal demise in comparison to others. Placenta plays a central role in supporting foetal growth. Researchers have emphasized on three dimensional sonographic placental volumetry as a predictor of SGA. This study focussed on role of two dimensional Ultrasonographic placental measurement in predicting SGA foetuses.Methods: Prospective study was conducted at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maulana Azad Medical College from November 2013 to February 2015. In singleton pregnancies at 18-22 weeks of gestation, placental biometry (in two dimensions) was performed. Maximal Placental Diameter (MaxPD) and Maximal Placental Thickness (MaxPT) in two orthogonal planes was recorded. Mean Placental Diameter (MPD) and Mean Placental Thickness (MPT) were calculated. At the time of delivery, as per the birth weight the neonate was classified into appropriate for gestational age (AGA)/ SGA/ large for gestational age (LGA). MPD and MPT were analyzed as predictors of SGA.Results: Both the MaxPDs and MPD were significantly smaller in SGA pregnancies (all with p ≤ 0.001). Similarly, both the MaxPTs (p = 0.006 and p = 0.001) and MPT (p = 0.000) were significantly smaller in SGA pregnancies. The ROC curve for combined placental biometry had the maximum area under the curve (0.805).Conclusions: Placental measurements taken in mid-gestation are a valuable predictor of SGA. Measurement of placental diameter and thickness is quick and simple. This approach should be explored in future to develop a predictive model for growth restricted foetuses

Sugar Substitutes: Mechanism, Availability, Current Use and Safety Concerns-An Update

BACKGROUND: Dental caries has continued to be the major oral disease in the past, as well as the present scenario. Cariogenic sugars in the presence of specific bacteria Streptococcus mutans over a period have been attributed as the major etiologic agent for dental caries. The association between sugar consumption and dental caries has been well documented. AIM: Hence, the dental profession shares an interest in the search for safe, palatable sugar substitutes. METHODS: Therefore, the use of a suitable sugar substitute can help in combating dental caries. RESULTS: Out of the various sugar substitutes available, xylitol is the most widely used. It is available in various forms. It decreases the plaque formation, bacterial adherence and inhibits the growth of Mutans Streptococci. CONCLUSION: This article provides a comprehensive review of the sugar substitutes, present-day availability, role in the prevention of dental caries and their safety concerns

Oral health status and dental management considerations in autism

Autistic individuals suff er primarily from a pervasive impairment of their cognitive and/or perceptional functioning; the consequences of which are manifested by limited ability to understand and communicate, and to learn and participate in social relationships. The behavioral abnormalities that characterize autism include a developmental impairment of reciprocal social interaction, a markedly restricted repertoire of activities and interests, and impairments in verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Among the various handicapping conditions, studies on oral health conditions in children with autism are sparse. The complicated disability itself makes clinical research diffi cult. A close correlation among autism, mental retardation, and seizure disorder is also seen. Hence, this review updates on the behavior, oral health and dental management of autistic children to help the pediatric dentist to treat such patients in their practice efficiently

Breastfeeding-Prevent the Preventable

Background: Breastfeeding is the best way of providing ideal food for growth and development of infants. There is urgent need for counselling of mothers in antenatal and postpartum period to promote effective breastfeeding practices. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of breastfeeding among postnatal mothers admitted in inpatient department of obstetrics and gynaecology of Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial hospital.Methods: 200 postnatal mothers were enrolled using random sampling method and data collection was done by face to face interview using structured questionnaire.Results: Most women (42.5%) belonged to age group (21-25 years), were multiparous (60.5%) and belonged to joint family. All of them were housewives, had vaginal delivery and belonged to lower socioeconomic status. Most women knew the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, early initiation, colostrum and feeding on demand. 16% women gave pre lacteal feed most common being honey. False cultural belief as discontinuing breastfeeding while being sick, and menstruating is still prevalent in the society. However according to 93% women breastfeeding decreases family expenses. Few women are still hesitant in breastfeeding in public places and find it as an interference to sexual life. Practices of breast feeding in the form of knowledge of proper attachment and latching techniques was found to be very poor in this study.Conclusions: Most mothers had good knowledge (49%), good attitude (76%) but only 5% women had good practices of breastfeeding