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Background Rice-fallow agroecosystems face challenges such as poor soil fertility and low crop productivity. This study evaluates a multi-species bacterial consortium—comprising atypical rhizobia ( Pararhizobium giardinii , Ochrobactrum sp.) and non-rhizobial endophytes ( Serratia plymuthica , Serratia sp.)—for improving lentil cultivation in these soils. Multilocation field trials assessed its effects on plant growth, soil nutrients, microbial diversity, and nifH gene expression in nodules. The goal is to offer a sustainable, biologically based alternative to chemical fertilizers like diammonium phosphate (DAP), enhancing soil health and enabling lentil intensification on fallow land. Results In greenhouse pot experiments, the bacterial consortium increased lentil growth by 166% in sterile and 116% in non-sterile soils compared to the uninoculated control. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed enhanced root hair development in treated plants. Further, the consortium treatment modulated the root exudate profiles, which demonstrated higher concentrations of fatty acids, triterpenes, and methyl esters. This markedly affected the composition of the rhizosphere microbial population. The consortium facilitated a proliferation of beneficial taxa, including Mesorhizobium , Rhizobium , and Bradyrhizobium , enhancing synergistic microbial interactions associated with enhanced plant development. The bacterial treatment increased nifH gene expression inside root nodules and augmented leghemoglobin content by 275%. Field experiments at five rice-fallow sites exhibited enhancements in soil pH, organic carbon (16%), nitrogen (6.5%), phosphorus (8%), and enzymatic activity. Meta-transcriptomic analysis demonstrated a 200% augmentation in nifH expression inside the root nodules, in the plots treated with the consortium. 16 S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed that the microbiota in the rhizosphere and nodules was predominantly composed of Pseudomonadota, with elevated numbers of rhizobia in both environments. Microbiome alterations correlated with a significant yield increase, with lentil grain output reaching 1168 kg/ha, surpassing both the uninoculated control and DAP treatment. Conclusions The study showed that a multi-species bacterial consortium of atypical rhizobia and non-rhizobial endophytes (NREs) improved plant growth and soil health in rice-fallow soils. It enhanced nifH gene expression in root nodules and altered root exudation, fostering a beneficial, plant growth-promoting microbial community. Importantly, these effects were achieved without chemical fertilizers, highlighting the consortium’s potential for sustainable lentil intensification on fallow land.

Non-rhizobial endophytes (NREs) are active colonizers inhabiting the root nodules. Though their active role in the lentil agroecosystem is not well defined, here we observed that these NREs might promote the growth of lentils, modulate rhizospheric community structure and could be used as promising organisms for optimal use of rice fallow soil. NREs from root nodules of lentils were isolated and examined for plant growth-promoting traits, exopolysaccharide (EPS) and biofilm production, root metabolites, and the presence of nifH and nifK elements. The greenhouse experiment with the chosen NREs, i.e., Serratia plymuthica 33GS and Serratia sp. R6 significantly increased the germination rate, vigour index, development of nodules (in non-sterile soil) and fresh weight of nodules (33GS 94%, R6 61% growth) and length of the shoot (33GS 86%, R6 51.16%) as well as chlorophyll levels when compared to the uninoculated control. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed that both isolates could successfully colonize the roots and elicit root hair growth. The inoculation of the NREs resulted in specific changes in root exudation patterns. The plants with 33GS and R6 treatment significantly stimulated the exudation of triterpenes, fatty acids, and their methyl esters in comparison to the uninoculated plants, altering the rhizospheric microbial community structure. Proteobacteria dominated the rhizospheric microbiota in all the treatments. Treatment with 33GS or R6 also enhanced the relative abundance of other favourable microbes, including Rhizobium, Mesorhizobium, and Bradyrhizobium. The correlation network analysis of relative abundances resulted in numerous bacterial taxa, which were in cooperation with each other, having a possible role in plant growth promotion. The results indicate the significant role of NREs as plant growth promoters, which also includes their role in root exudation patterns, enhancement of soil nutrient status and modulation of rhizospheric microbiota, suggesting their prospects in sustainable, and bio-based agriculture.

The excessive use of chemical fertilizers in tea cultivation threatens soil health, environmental sustainability, and long-term crop productivity. This study explores the application of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional fertilizers. A bacterial consortium was developed using selected rhizobacterial isolates—Lysinibacillus fusiformis, five strains of Serratia marcescens, and two Bacillus spp.—based on their phosphate and zinc solubilization abilities and production of ACC deaminase, indole-3-acetic acid, and siderophores. The consortium was tested in both pot and field conditions using two tea clones, S3A3 and TS491, and compared with a chemical fertilizer treatment. Plants treated with the consortium showed enhanced growth, biomass, and antioxidant activity. The total phenolic contents increased to 1643.6 mg GAE/mL (S3A3) and 1646.93 mg GAE/mL (TS491), with higher catalase (458.17–458.74 U/g/min), glutathione (34.67–42.67 µmol/gfw), and superoxide dismutase (679.85–552.28 units/gfw/s) activities. A soil metagenomic analysis revealed increased microbial diversity and the enrichment of phyla, including Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Firmicutes. Functional gene analysis showed the increased abundance of genes for siderophore biosynthesis, glutathione and nitrogen metabolism, and indole alkaloid biosynthesis. This study recommends the potential of a PGPB consortium as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, enhancing both the tea plant performance and soil microbial health.

Background Liver cirrhosis (LC) significantly impairs health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) due to physical, psychological, and nutritional challenges. Despite its growing burden in India, limited evidence exists on how disease severity, alcohol dependence, and malnutrition influence HR-QoL in Indian LC patients. Methods This cross-sectional study included 565 LC patients attending a tertiary care hospital over 30 months. HR-QoL was assessed using SF-36. Disease severity was graded using the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score, while nutritional status and alcohol dependence were evaluated using the RFH-NPT and AUDIT tools. Associations were analysed using Pearson’s correlation, ANOVA, and logistic regression. Results The mean age of participants was 42.5 ± 14.9 years; 81.9% were male, and 58.6% resided in rural areas. Malnutrition was present in 80.9% of patients, and 50.6% were alcohol-dependent. Patients with severe liver cirrhosis (CTP Class C) had significantly lower HR-QoL scores across all domains ( p  < 0.001). Malnutrition was associated with higher odds of severe liver cirrhosis (OR 1.53; 95% CI: 1.27–1.85), and lower physical function scores were also significantly associated with disease severity (OR 0.89; 95% CI: 0.89–0.95). Severe cirrhosis was additionally marked by elevated serum bilirubin and INR levels, and reduced albumin concentrations. Conclusion HR-QoL declines substantially with worsening cirrhosis, especially in malnourished and alcohol-dependent patients. These findings highlight the need for multidisciplinary interventions focusing on nutrition, lifestyle modification, and psychological support to improve outcomes in LC patients.

Background CONSTANS-like (CO-like, COL) are putative zinc-finger transcription factors known to play vital role in various plant biological processes such as control of flowering time, regulation of plant growth and development and responses to stresses. However, no systematic analysis of COL family gene regarding the plant development and stress response has been previously performed in any solanaceous crop. In the present study, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of COL family genes in petunia has been conducted to figure out their roles in development of organs and stress response. Results A total of 33 COL genes, 15 PaCOL genes in P. axillaris and 18 PiCOL genes in P. inflata , were identified in petunia. Subsequently, a genome-wide systematic analysis was performed in 15 PaCOL genes. Considering the domain composition and sequence similarity the 15 PaCOL and 18 PiCOL genes were phylogenetically classified into three groups those are conserved among the flowering plants. Moreover, all of the 15 PaCOL proteins were localized in nucleus. Furthermore, differential expression patterns of PaCOL genes were observed at different developmental stages of petunia. Additionally, transcript expression of 15 PaCOL genes under various abiotic and phytohormone treatments showed their response against stresses. Moreover, several cis- elements related to stress, light-responsive, hormone signaling were also detected in different PaCOL genes. Conclusion The phylogenetic clustering, organ specific expression pattern and stress responsive expression profile of conserved petunia COL genes indicating their involvement in plant growth and development and stress response mechanism. This work provide a significant foundation for understanding the biological roles of petunia COL genes in plant growth, development and in stress response.

Breast cancer, a global health concern predominantly affecting women, recorded 2.3 million new cases and 685,000 deaths in 2020. Alarmingly, projections suggest that by 2040, there could be over 3 million new cases and 1 million deaths. To assess breast cancer prevalence in 24 rural villages within a 60 km radius of NIMS Hospital, Tala Mod, Jaipur, Rajasthan, North India 303,121. A study involving 2023 participants conducted initial screenings, and positive cases underwent further tests, including ultrasound, mammography, and biopsy. SPSSv28 analysed collected data. Among 2023 subjects, 3 screened positive for breast lumps. Subsequent clinical examination and biopsy identified 1 normal case and 2 with breast cancer, resulting in a prevalence proportion of 0.0009 or 98 per 100,000. This study helps fill gap in breast cancer prevalence data for rural Rajasthan. The results highlight a concerning prevalence of breast cancer in the rural area near NIMS hospital, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness, early detection, and better healthcare access. Challenges like limited resources, awareness programs, and delayed diagnosis contribute to this high incidence. To address this, comprehensive approach is necessary, including improved screening programs and healthcare facilities in rural areas. Prioritizing rural healthcare and evidence-based strategies can reduce the burden of breast cancer and improve health outcomes.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the burden of the COVID-19 pandemic on tuberculosis (TB) trends, patient demographics, disease types and hospitalisation duration within the Respiratory Medicine Department over three distinct phases: pre-COVID-19, COVID-19 and post-COVID-19.DesignRetrospective analysis using electronic medical records of patients with TB admitted between June 2018 and June 2023 was done to explore the impact of COVID-19 on patients with TB. The study employed a meticulous segmentation into pre-COVID-19, COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 eras.SettingNational Institute of Medical Science Hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.Primary and secondary outcome measuresPrimary outcome includes patients admitted to the Respiratory Medicine Department of the hospital and secondary outcome involves the duration of hospital stay.ResultsThe study encompassed 1845 subjects across the three eras, revealing a reduction in TB incidence during the post-COVID-19 era compared with the pre-COVID-19 period (p<0.01). Substantial demographic shifts were observed, with 5.2% decline in TB incidence among males in the post-COVID-19 era (n=529) compared with the pre-COVID-19 era (n=606). Despite the decrease, overall TB incidence remained significantly higher in males (n=1460) than females (n=385), with consistently elevated rates in rural (65.8%) as compared with the urban areas (34.2%). Extended hospital stays were noted in the post-COVID-19 era compared with the pre-COVID-19 era (p<0.01).ConclusionThe study underscores the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the TB landscape and hospitalisation dynamics. Notably, patient burden of TB declined during the COVID-19 era, with a decline in the post-COVID-19 era compared with the pre-COVID-19 era. Prolonged hospitalisation in the post-COVID-19 period indicates the need for adaptive healthcare strategies and the formulation of public health policies in a post-pandemic context. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the evolving TB scenario, emphasising the necessity for tailored healthcare approaches in the aftermath of a global health crisis.

Background Lack of culturally and linguistically tailored instruments limits the assessment of lifestyle awareness in Hindi-speaking individuals with diabetes. This study aimed to develop and psychometrically validate the diet and physical activity questionnaire for patients with diabetes (DPQD) as a reliable and valid instrument for assessing dietary practices and physical activity behaviors among patients with diabetes. Methods The 10-item DPQD was generated through item formulation, expert review, and translation. In a cross-sectional study, it was administered to 125 Hindi-speaking adults with diabetes in a tertiary care hospital in North India. Psychometric evaluation included internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and construct validity using exploratory factor analysis. Results The DPQD demonstrated excellent reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.909). Factor analysis confirmed a unidimensional structure, with a single component explaining 55.02% of variance, indicating strong cohesiveness of items in assessing diet and physical activity awareness. Conclusion The Hindi DPQD is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating lifestyle awareness in diabetic patients. Its use can help health care workers identify knowledge gaps, deliver targeted education, and enhance self-management practices, ultimately improving outcomes in this underserved population.

The ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic include potentially deleterious impacts on bone health. This research aimed to ascertain the effects of COVID-19 on the bone health of obese and non-obese Indian individuals. We executed a case-control study enrolling individuals who recovered from COVID-19. Participants were stratified into obese and non-obese groups based on their BMI. Comprehensive assessments encompassed anthropometric evaluations, laboratory tests, and bone mineral density (BMD) measurements using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). From April to July 2022, we enrolled obese (n = 27, mean BMI = 30.54 ± 4.51 kg/m 2) and non-obese (n = 23, mean BMI = 21.97 ± 2.20 kg/m 2) individuals. The cohort's average age was 36.08 ± 15.81 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1. There was a difference in BMD, especially at the total hip, between the two groups. BMD at the spine (L1-L4), the neck of the femur, and ultra-distal radius were consistent across both groups. Weight exhibited a significant positive correlation with BMD at L1-L4 (r = 0.40, = 0.003) and the left femur total (r = 0.27, = 0.001). Haemoglobin levels were lower in the obese group compared to their non-obese counterparts (12.3 ± 2.0 vs 13.6 ± 1.9, = 0.01). Multivariate analysis underscored weight as a crucial predictor for BMD at the spine (L1-L4, = 0.003) and total hip ( = 0.001). Even with advanced age, obese post-COVID-19 individuals demonstrate a higher bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip than non-obese subjects.

The aim of this paper was to investigate the impact of the fly ash concentration on the infiltration process and to assess the potential of five soft computing techniques such as artificial neural network, Gaussian process, support vector machine (SVM), random forest, and M5P model tree and compare with two popular conventional models, SCS and Kostiakov mode, to estimate the cumulative infiltration of fly-ash-mixed soils. Laboratory experiment was carried out with the different combinations of the sand, clay, and fly ash by using mini disk infiltrometer. The combination consists of the different concentrations of sand (25–45%), clay (25–45%), and fly ash (10–50%). The total observation consists of the 138 field measurement. The cumulative infiltration increase with an increment in the concentration of the fly ash, but it decreases when fly ash concentration increases 40–50% in the soil. On the other hand, the cumulative infiltration increases with the decrease in the concentration of clay in samples. The predictive modeling technique, SVM with RBF kernel, is the best technique to predict the cumulative infiltration with minimum error. Results suggest that SVM with RBF kernel is the best-fit modeling technique among other soft computing techniques as well as conventional models to find the impact of fly ash on infiltration characteristics for the given combination of the sand, clay and fly ash.