Central University of Kerala

Germ cells are pivotal for the continuation of biological species. The metazoan germline develops from primordial germ cells (PGCs) that undergo multiple rounds of mitotic divisions. The PGCs are specified by either maternal inheritance of asymmetrically polarized cytoplasmic mRNAs/proteins (found in roundworms, flies, fishes, frogs, and fowl) or via direct induction of epiblast cells from adjacent extraembryonic ectoderm in mammals. In all vertebrates, PGCs remain uncommitted to meiosis and migrate to colonize the developing gonadal ridge before sex determination. Multiple RNA‐binding proteins (e.g., Vasa , Dnd , Dazl , etc.) play crucial roles in PGC identity, expansion, survival, and migration. Postsex determination in mouse embryos, Gata4 , expressing nascent gonads, induces Dazl expression in newly arriving germ cells that supports retinoic acid–mediated induction of meiotic onset. This article briefly discusses the developmental events regulating the PGC specification and commitment in metazoans. We also highlight the recent progress towards the in vitro generation of functional PGC‐like cells in rodents and humans.

Background The persistent issue of incomplete death registration in India, with a significant number of deaths going unrecorded, underscores the critical need for a granular understanding of spatial variations. Given the nation’s vast geographic and demographic diversity, this granular understanding, particularly at the district level, is crucial for effective interventions. This analysis, therefore, aims to examine spatial disparities in death registration at both the state and district levels across India. Data and methods Using data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted in 2019-21, this study analyzed information on 79,449 deaths occurring in the three years preceding the survey, across 707 districts in India. The study explored spatial patterns and identified clusters of death registration using Moran’s I and univariate Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) maps. Additionally, spatial regression models were employed to examine the factors influencing death registration at the district level. Results In 2019-21, only 71% of deaths in India were registered, with significant variations across states and districts. The univariate Moran’s I value of 0.69 (p < 0.001) indicated strong spatial clustering in death registration at the district level. Two notable ‘cold spots’—districts with low death registration rates surrounded by other low-registration districts—were identified across 152 districts, primarily in the eastern states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and the northeastern regions of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and parts of Manipur. Results from regression models revealed that factors such as the proportion of poor households, rural households, Muslim and Scheduled Tribe (ST) households, and households with at least one uneducated member were negatively associated with death registration at the district level. Conclusions The findings suggest the necessity for region-specific focused interventions to improve death registration in India, taking the social determinants of death registration into consideration and raising societal awareness about it.

Background: Health workers face significant hazards in their occupational settings. While many studies document the health risks of conventional healthcare workers, CAM health workers encounter unique challenges, including physical strain from repetitive tasks and psychosocial stressors from intensive patient interactions. Despite the widespread practice of yoga and naturopathy in India and globally, there is a lack of reports on the occupational health and well-being of yoga and naturopathy health workers. Objectives: This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the occupational health issues and well-being of yoga and naturopathy professionals, providing valuable insights to improve their work environments and support systems. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a yoga and naturopathy-based lifestyle medicine hospital in India. Participants included doctors, interns, therapists, drivers, and administrative, kitchen, and housekeeping staff with at least one year of work experience. Data on general well-being, quality of life, fatigue, and work-related burnout were collected using validated questionnaires. Data analysis involved univariate and multivariate approaches to compute prevalence and identify factors associated with burnout, pain, and occupational symptoms. Results: Among 138 participants, 68.1% were female, and 34.1% were therapists. Most participants were overweight or obese. High burnout levels were reported by 29%, with eye strain (41.3%) and sleep disturbances (26.8%) being prevalent occupational health issues. Females and those with up to six years of experience had higher odds of occupational symptoms and burnout. Conclusions: The majority perceived the workplace as safe, with no reports of sexual harassment. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve the occupational health and well-being of yoga and naturopathy health workers. Future research should include larger, more diverse samples across multiple settings to validate and expand upon these findings.

Endophytic fungi are the symbiotic-associated organisms in the plant host, assisting the plant with secondary metabolite production. These fungi working as factory of production of chemicals are widespread, enhancing plant growth and resilience against stress. These fungal communities are categorised based on the reproductive pattern and occurrence in various plant groups. This chapter elaborates on their classification and asymptomatic occurrence in various plant groups.

Nickel‐doped lanthanum aluminium perovskite, LaAl1‐xNixO3‐δ with x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4,0.5, 0.6, and 0.75 (LANx), were obtained through a combustion method followed by a calcination process. The obtained LANx materials crystallized in the cubic structure by the Pm‐3m (221) space group. The nanocrystalline nature of the LANx materials was confirmed by the average crystalline size determined using Debye‐Scherrer formula. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies showed that nickel was present in the +2 and +3 oxidation states. The introduction of nickel resulted in distinct peaks in TPR in the temperature range of 200–600 °C, with an enhanced reducibility of the materials. The LANx materials were thoroughly assessed for their effectiveness in the hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde. The maximum catalytic activity (cinnamaldehyde conversion of 98% with a hydrocinnamylalcohol selectivity 96.5%) was observed with the presence of the LAN7 catalyst at 150 °C for 6 h at a H2 pressure of 10 bar. The catalytic activity is maintained even after four cycles, which broadens the application scope as the material is sustainable, scalable, cost‐effective, and a potential alternative to reported noble metal catalysts. The synergistic effect of nickel and oxygen vacancies in the catalyst improves the reducibility and provides a promising catalytic activity in the cinnamaldehyde hydrogenation.

Microplastics in edible seafood constitute a significant concern, as they can accumulate in the tissues of marine organisms and entering food chain through which it reaches human and cause health risks. This study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in the edible tissues of Marcia opima, Metapenaeus dobsoni, and Stolephorus indicus, collected from the central fish markets in Kasargod District of Kerala, India. About 9 kg of seafood (3 kg of each species) was collected from three major fish markets. From this, 50 species samples were randomly selected, totalling 150 samples representing each sample. About 193 microplastics from 150 individuals of three different seafood species were isolated and identified. Metapenaeus dobsoni was found to have the greatest number of microplastics (155) among these three species. Microplastic fibres constituted a significant part of total microplastic counts. Microplastic identification was made using a ‘Leica stereo-zoom binocular microscope’; confirmation and polymer identification were made using the FTIR-ATR method. Six different polymers were identified such as polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polyester, polytetrafluoroethylene, and polyacrylamide. Among these, microplastic analysis across all three species showed that nearly half were composed of polyethylene, with polyethylene terephthalate being the second most prevalent polymer. Additionally, Metapenaeus dobsoni has been newly reported globally as a species with microplastic contamination.

Climate change significantly affects the Himalayan region, with a substantial portion of the adverse impacts stemming from hydrometeorological extremes. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as intense precipitation, heat waves, flash floods, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), and landslides, are increasing. As most communities in the region depend on agriculture, these events pose significant threats to both their livelihoods and lives. Understanding the mechanisms behind hydrometeorological events and developing coping mechanisms are essential for the survival of the population. A community’s adaptability is influenced by the stress it encounters, which fosters resilience. Enhancing adaptability and resilience to climate change is crucial in the Anthropocene epoch. In this context, this chapter provides a comprehensive and integrated analysis of climate change-induced hydrometeorological extremes in the Himalayan region. It underscores the necessity for realistic adaptation and resilience strategies and policies that support the socio-economic development of local communities. The chapter recognizes the importance of the interconnectedness between climate change drivers and their hydrometeorological impacts, particularly on local communities and the Himalayan ecosystem. It also discusses various adaptation and resilience strategies at the community level, especially for those most vulnerable to these extreme events. The chapter highlights the challenges and barriers to implementing these policies, including political, social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of employing ecosystem-based adaptation strategies, particularly focusing on the restoration and safeguarding of ecosystems.

Microorganisms thriving in extreme environments produce extremozymes, which have attracted increased interest due to their extraordinary stability and catalytic competence under various environmental stress conditions. This broad review discusses extremozymes' functional efficiency and structural adaptations, encouraging them to survive in extreme environmental niches. In addition, the article discusses different strategies and methodologies used in the bioprospecting of extremozymes, from their isolation, screening, and characterization to explore them for broader utilization. Extremozymes that can operate under extreme salinity, temperatures, and pH ranges are valuable tools for detecting the evolving problems different industries face. Extremozymes are also of great importance in solving environmental issues. These materials' specific capabilities and properties have contributed to waste management solutions, bioremediation efforts, and the sustainable use of resources. Moreover, extremozymes are very useful in agricultural applications. Enzyme engineering plays a significant role in making extremozymes more effective. Overall, this review will explore the power of extremozymes from basic to sustainable applications and innovation in different fields.

The study presents a novel nanocarrier technology that integrates mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with the bacterial effector protein SlrP for targeted cancer treatment. It is proposed that the conjugation of SlrP to carboxyl‐functionalized, fluorescein‐labeled mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNFITC/MPA) will facilitate regulated intracellular distribution and enhance cytotoxic effects in colorectal cancer cells. This method distinctively combines the apoptosis‐inducing protein SlrP with a biocompatible, traceable MSN platform, in contrast to conventional delivery techniques. Thorough characterization validated the effective synthesis, carboxylation, and SlrP conjugation, preserving particle integrity and improving surface functionality. Cellular investigations utilizing Caco‐2 cells revealed effective absorption, delayed release, and markedly elevated cytotoxicity and apoptosis rates in comparison to free SlrP. Significantly, MSNFITC/MPA/SlrP conjugates prompted G0/G1 phase arrest and a time‐dependent development of apoptosis, highlighting the therapeutic potential of the system. This study presents a novel protein‐nanoparticle hybrid that overcomes challenges in protein drug delivery and emphasizes mesoporous silica nanoparticles as a viable platform for targeted sustained cancer therapy.

Maternal anaemia is a significant global health issue that adversely affects both maternal and foetal outcomes, particularly, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to consolidate existing evidence on the impact of maternal anaemia on the risk of IUGR. We conducted a comprehensive search across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science until 28 February 2024. Eligible studies included observational designs that reported maternal anaemia and its association with IUGR or small for gestational age (SGA) outcomes. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a random‐effects model and heterogeneity was assessed with the I² statistic. The R software (version 4.3) was used for statistical analyses. A total of 38 studies involving 3,871,849 anaemic and 27,978,450 non‐anaemic pregnant women were included. The pooled analysis demonstrated that anaemia in pregnancy is associated with a significantly increased risk of IUGR (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.05–1.62, I² = 97%). Subgroup analyses by anaemia severity showed non‐significant associations for mild (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.58–1.23) and moderate anaemia (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.48–1.98), while severe anaemia indicated a higher, though non‐significant, risk of IUGR (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 0.69–2.93). Maternal anaemia is associated with a heightened risk of IUGR, highlighting the critical need for effective management and early intervention strategies within prenatal care settings. Future research should focus on elucidating the effects of different severities of anaemia on birth outcomes, including IUGR and long‐term effects later in life.

The optimal technological choice for sustainable development lies in renewable energy sources (RES). However, the potential offered by RES utilization poses significant challenges for mobile technologies and everyday living. Despite extensive research and information highlighting the benefits of renewable energy, there remains considerable debate, and limited awareness persists. The advantages of RES are not fully comprehended, raising concerns about its consistent application. Regrettably, lack of knowledge and a fundamental understanding hinders effective dissemination. To gauge the attitudes of residents in regions where RES is employed, this study employed a questionnaire authored by the researcher. The study was conducted between June 2022 and January 2023, with a total of 12,428 participants completing the survey. The sampling method utilized an online form distributed via various social media channels and among local contacts of the authors in Poland, Sweden, and France. Gender allocation: 58% male and 42% female. Respondents shared their perspectives on ecology and disclosed their familiarity with RES utilization. Results indicate public skepticism regarding the adequacy of RES security measures and the level of knowledge for its effective use. Insufficient experts, limited social advocacy, and reliance on online sources contribute to a low level of awareness. In several EU countries, the absence of widely accepted and easily accessible information on renewable energy sources (RES) hinders knowledge sharing and adoption. Despite the EU’s efforts to promote renewable energy through directives and subsidies, rural communities in these countries often lack adequate education and awareness about RES technologies. This gap in knowledge contributes to unfavorable perceptions, with some residents viewing renewables as unreliable or economically unfeasible options compared to traditional energy sources like coal or natural gas. Additionally, bureaucratic hurdles and inconsistent government policies further complicate the transition to renewable energy, discouraging investment and innovation in the sector. As a result, while the EU aims for a sustainable energy future, these barriers impede the widespread growth of RES and hinder progress towards climate targets. In Poland the study found that 76% of respondents expressed favorable perceptions of RES, indicating a general inclination towards adopting clean energy solutions. In Sweden, the analysis uncovered a high level of environmental awareness among participants, with 85% of respondents expressing concern about environmental degradation. Despite this awareness, 62% of participants reported reservations about the security and affordability of energy derived from renewable sources. Additionally, 48% of respondents expressed uncertainty or ambivalence regarding the environmental benefits of RES. In France, the research revealed similar concerns among respondents regarding the security and affordability of renewable energy. 59% of participants expressed reservations about the security of energy derived from renewable sources, while 53% cited perceived high costs as a barrier to adoption. Furthermore, 41% of respondents identified underdeveloped RES infrastructure as a hindrance to wider acceptance and utilization. The quantitative data highlights the complex landscape of renewable energy perceptions and attitudes in Poland, Sweden, and France. While there is a general awareness of environmental issues and a positive inclination towards clean energy solutions, concerns about security, affordability, and infrastructure remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and educational efforts to address these challenges and promote sustainable energy practices across Europe. Renewable energy sources (RES) represent a critical avenue for sustainable development, offering a pathway to mitigate environmental degradation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This study investigates public attitudes, knowledge levels, and barriers to RES adoption in rural areas of Poland, Sweden, and France, highlighting the unique socio-economic and cultural factors influencing these regions. Conducted between June 2022 and January 2023, the research utilized an online survey, gathering responses from 12,428 participants across these countries. Respondents evaluated statements on environmental responsibility, RES knowledge and application, and perceived obstacles, using a five-point Likert scale. Key findings reveal that while environmental awareness is high, significant barriers persist in the form of limited knowledge, underdeveloped infrastructure, and perceptions of high costs associated with RES. In Poland, 76% of respondents expressed a positive view of RES but cited concerns about cost and security. Swedish participants demonstrated strong environmental awareness (85%), yet 62% voiced reservations about RES affordability and reliability. French respondents similarly highlighted concerns regarding infrastructure and costs, with 41% identifying underdeveloped RES systems as a primary hindrance. The study underscores the importance of targeted educational campaigns and policy interventions to bridge knowledge gaps and foster greater acceptance of RES. Tailored strategies addressing local barriers—such as financial incentives, community-based advocacy, and infrastructure investments—are essential to overcoming these challenges. By exploring diverse perspectives and barriers across the three countries, this research contributes valuable insights to the broader discourse on sustainable energy transitions in the EU.

Hetero-atom doping is a widely employed strategy to enhance the desired properties of nanomaterials. In this study, we used Density Functional Theory (DFT) to examine the impact of nitrogen doping on the electrochemical performance of V2CTx. By considering nitrogen incorporation at various sites, we found that lattice-site doping enhances charge storage capacity, whereas functional-site doping has the opposite effect. This enhancement arises from an increase in redox capacitance or pseudocapacitance, with surface redox activity being the primary mechanism driving the improved capacitance. We also explain the underlying reasons for the contrasting effects of these two doping sites on the electrochemical behavior of V2CTx.

Recent evidence has underscored the significance of intestinal microbes in host growth performance, shedding light on the complex relationship between gut microbiota and host physiology. Even though Penaeus monodon exhibits notable size variations attributed to rapid growth and larger body mass, the specific association of the microbial community with body size remains unexplored. In this study, we employed a 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing approach to investigate the composition, diversity, and functional potential of gut microbiota in two populations of adult P. monodon (fast-growing and slow-growing). Significant variations in microbial architecture were found between the study groups based on alpha and beta diversity analyses. Differential abundance analysis identified the enrichment of specific genera, including Desulfovibrio, Ferrimonas, and Fusibacter, in the fast-growing P. monodon. These genera have been previously implicated in female shrimp growth. Functional prediction of the observed microbiota composition highlighted the predominance of growth-associated pathways, such as iron and sulfur metabolism, in the fast-growing population. Overall, our comprehensive analysis revealed discernible differences in gut microbiota between fast-growing and slow-growing populations of P. monodon, possibly indicating dynamic changes associated with host growth and development. The variations observed in the abundance of growth-related microbial taxa between these populations may provide insights into the underlying mechanisms influencing shrimp growth and development.

Background University teachers are consistently exposed to various risk factors for stress and hypertension. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and determine the factors associated with stress and hypertension among university teachers. Methodology A cross-sectional survey of 234 university teachers was conducted. A cluster sampling approach was employed to select samples from two universities. Teachers Stress Inventory (TSI) was used to assess the occupational stress among teachers. The blood pressure of the participants was measured and participants were considered hypertensive when SBP was ≥140 mm Hg and DBP was ≥90 mm Hg. Descriptive statistics were employed to estimate the prevalence measures and logistic regression models were developed to determine the factors associated with stress and hypertension. Findings Close to 84% of university teachers experience moderate to high levels of stress. About 21.4% of university teachers were hypertensive and only 12% of them had control of their blood pressure levels. Stress levels were found to have an association with younger age of up to 45 years (AOR = 14.48; 95% CI = 2.48–84.49) and inadequate physical activity (AOR = 3.64, 95% CI = 1.02–12.90). Furthermore, hypertension status showed an association with older age of 46 years and above (AOR = 3.01; 95% CI = 1.33–6.78), a student ratio of ≥41 per class (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.37–5.65), and a moderate level of stress (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI = 1.01–7.66). Conclusion Long-term occupational stressors coupled with age may expose university teachers to a significant risk of hypertension. Workplace health strategies and stress management interventions are needed to facilitate the prevention of stress and hypertension in this occupational group.

How to cite this article Ahmed MM, John J. Chemotherapy and Oral Health: An Editorial on Current Insights and Future Directions. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(1):1–3.

Background : The equity in health and health care utilization is the key objective of public policy across the world. Equity will be served if the public health expenditure benefits the financially disadvantaged people. Therefore, tracking the distribution of benefits from government financing on health is necessary. This study examines the utilization pattern and benefit incidence of public subsidy on different maternal health services (pre-natal, delivery and post- natal care) across the socio-economic groups in India using the Benefit Incidence Analysis. Result: Utilizing the 75 th round National Sample Survey data on household social consumption on health, the study showed both utilization and benefit distribution of pre-natal, post-natal and delivery care is pro-rich. The distribution of benefits on pre-natal and post-natal care is more even in the lower level of health care facilities in comparison of the higher level of health care units. Moreover, the highest public subsidy on pre-natal, delivery and post-natal care is enjoyed by urban population and the distribution of public subsidy is also more even in urban areas compared to rural area. An analysis of public subsidy on maternal health services by social group shows that the maximum share of benefit is received by women from General category while the lowest public subsidy is enjoyed by the Scheduled Tribe category. Conclusion: The results reveal that the public health expenditure on maternal health services is not significantly benefited socially and economically weaker sections of the society in India at least during the study period.