Automated detection of Alzheimer disease using MRI images and deep neural networks- A review

Early detection of Alzheimer disease is crucial for deploying interventions and slowing the disease progression. A lot of machine learning and deep learning algorithms have been explored in the past decade with the aim of building an automated detection for Alzheimer. Advancements in data augmentation techniques and advanced deep learning architectures have opened up new frontiers in this field, and research is moving at a rapid speed. Hence, the purpose of this survey is to provide an overview of recent research on deep learning models for Alzheimer disease diagnosis. In addition to categorizing the numerous data sources, neural network architectures, and commonly used assessment measures, we also classify implementation and reproducibility. Our objective is to assist interested researchers in keeping up with the newest developments and in reproducing earlier investigations as benchmarks. In addition, we also indicate future research directions for this topic.Comment: 22 Pages, 5 Figures, 7 Table

Real Time PCR Usage in the Quantification of Hepatitis B Virus DNA-Clinical Applications in Disease Management

ABSTRACT Simultaneous quantification and detection of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA plays significant role in diagnosing and monitoring infection related to HBV as well as assessing therapeutic response. Variability among HBV genotypes and the huge range of clinical HBV DNA levels presents challenges for PCR-based amplification techniques. High sensitivity, wide linear range, good reproducibility, and genotype inclusivity, combined with a small sample volume requirement and low cost, make this novel quantitative HBV Real-Time PCR assay particularly well suited for application to large clinical and epidemiological studies. Serum DNA levels are a prognostic factor, and contribute to define the phase of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection, the treatment indication, and allow an assessment of the efficacy of antiviral therapy. High levels of HBV DNA are an independent risk factor for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma HCC in Asia. Recent advances in antiviral therapy, based on the development of new and more powerful nucleotide analogues, have dramatically improved chronic hepatitis B management, including the prevention of allograft reinfection in those patients undergoing liver transplantation for HBV related disease. Advances in the molecular diagnosis of drug resistance using highly sensitive methodologies such as DNA Amplification by PCR can further detect upcoming viral resistance at an early stage when the variant represents only a minor fraction of the total viral population. Such new tools are especially relevant for patients at high risk for disease progression or acute exacerbation

Herbal Allies for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Review of Natural Products

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting primarily the joints, producing discomfort, inflammation, and potentially damaging joint destruction. Rheumatoid arthritis affects people all around the world, and its prevalence and impact differ by place. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 0.5% to 1% of the global population has rheumatoid arthritis. To decrease the progression of rheumatoid arthritis, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic medications (DMARDs) such as methotrexate and sulfasalazine are used. TNF inhibitors and IL-6 inhibitors are two examples of biologic DMARDs that target specific immune system components. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics help manage pain and inflammation while corticosteroids provide short-term relief during flares. Treatment strategies are tailored to the individual, and talking with a healthcare expert is essential for effective management. Herbal therapies are regarded to offer an advantage over synthetic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis due to their natural approach, potential symptom relief, holistic approach to health, and individualised therapy possibilities. However, scientific data supporting their effectiveness is sparse and variable, and their quality and safety can vary. Before adopting herbal therapies as part of a treatment plan, it is critical to check with a healthcare expert. Because of their natural chemicals with anti-inflammatory and analgesic characteristics, medicinal herbs may aid rheumatoid arthritis. However, further research is required to determine their efficacy, safety, and appropriate application

Biomed Res-India 2012; 23 (4): 547-550 Age wise distribution of high risk Human Papillomavirus in Northern In- dian women

Abstract Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing was introduced to compensate the poor sensitivity and specificity of the pap smear cytology often used as a diagnostic tool for borderline precancerous lesions. Digene Hybrid Capture Assay 2 (HCA-2) is the only approved test by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for evaluation and confirmation of the cytologically borderline suspected cases. 361 cervical specimens were collected for the high risk HPV analysis. Forty one cervical samples were positive. Age wise distribution showed highest prevalence in the 15-35 age groups which decreased in subsequent years. Present observations are in agreement with similar studies reported from other parts of the world including Southern India