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• The correlation analysis highlighted that the indices STI, MPI, GMP, YI and HM are suitable for selecting drought-tolerant genotypes as they exhibited strong correlations with yield under both stress and non-stress conditions. • Based on ranking method, cluster analysis and bi plot analysis, the genotypes, Dhenkanal local-2, 84 × 14, SB21/57, Howrah, S-783 and 84 × 1 were identified as the most drought tolerant. • In stress conditions, storage root yield was negatively associated with SSI and YR, suggesting that genotypes with low SSI and YR values were drought tolerant. • PC1 had high positive coefficients for indices such as Yp, Ys, STI, MPI, GMP, YI and HM, has effectively identifying tolerant genotypes with high storage root yield. PC2 had high positive coefficients for TOL, SSI and YR, for identifying susceptible genotypes. Sweet potato is a vital food crop in tropical and sub-tropical regions, but its sustainable production is hampered by drought stress. This study was conducted at ICAR-CTCRI, Regional Centre, aimed to evaluate 27 sweet potato genotypes to identify lines with drought tolerance. The experiment employed a split-plot design with a randomized complete block arrangement under both irrigated and drought stress conditions over two years, during Sep-2017 to Jan-2018 and Sep-2018 to Jan-2019. The results of the combined analysis of variance revealed significant differences among main effects and their interactions for storage root yield over the two years. The stress tolerant indices, correlation analysis, ranking methods, cluster analysis, principal component analysis and biplot analysis were employed to identify drought tolerant genotypes. The stress tolerance index, mean productivity index, geometric mean productivity, yield index and harmonic mean productivity, were found to be the best indicators for identifying high yielding genotypes under both conditions. The genotypes Dhenkanal local-2, 84 × 14, SB21/57, Howrah and S-783 emerged as the most drought tolerant genotypes based on mean rank, standard deviation of ranks and rank sum. The cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into three distinct groups, highlighting SB21/57, S-783, 84 × 14, Dhenkanal local-2, Howrah, 84 × 1, Baster-11 and X-79 in group II as tolerant genotypes. The principal component analysis demonstrated that the first and second components accounted for 99.042 % of the variations. The biplot analysis further confirmed that the genotypes S-783, 84 × 14, SB21/57, Dhenkanal local-2 and 84 × 1 displayed significant drought tolerance. Among all the genotypes, Dhenkanal local-2, 84 × 14, SB21/57, Howrah and S-783 were identified as the most drought tolerant. These genotypes are recommended for breeding for drought tolerance in sweet potato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Maternal health and nutrition during the perinatal period is the predominant factor influencing the functional development of the brain. Maternal malnutrition during the perinatal period causes retardation of brain development. The current study investigates the role of Astaxanthin (AsX) in spatial learning and memory and BDNF in perinatally undernourished Wistar rats. Methods: The albino wistar rats were perinatally undernourished and administered with different dosages of AsX. The spatial learning and memory performance and BDNF level were assessed. Data were collected and analysed. Results: The % Correct choice during the acquisition phase, performance at the end of the acquisition phase and the mean BDNF level at the Hippocampus, Cerebellum, and Cerebral cortex showed significant decline (P<0.001) in the PUN group and significantly high (P<0.001) in the PUNA2 group compared to the control. However, the mean RME and mean WME during different days of the acquisition phase were significantly high (P<0.001) in the PUN group and insignificant (P>0.05) in PUNA2 compared to the control. Discussion: The results showed that AsX effectively modulated the cognitive deficit that occurred in perinatally undernourished rats. This can be attributed to BDNF upregulation as evidenced by the significant increase of the BDNF level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphomannose isomerase (PMI) is a housekeeping enzyme that is found in organisms ranging from bacteria to fungi to mammals and is important for cell‐wall synthesis, viability and signalling. PMI is a zinc‐dependent enzyme that catalyses the reversible isomerization between mannose 6‐phosphate (M6P) and fructose 6‐phosphate (F6P), presumably via the formation of a cis‐enediol intermediate. The reaction is hypothesized to involve ring opening of M6P, the transfer of a proton from the C2 atom to the C1 atom and between the O1 and O2 atoms of the substrate, followed by ring closure resulting in the product F6P. Several attempts have been made to decipher the role of zinc ions and various residues in the catalytic function of PMI. However, there is no consensus on the catalytic base and the mechanism of the reaction catalyzed by the enzyme. In the present study, based on the structure of PMI from Salmonella typhimurium, site‐directed mutagenesis targeting residues close to the bound metal ion and activity studies on the mutants, zinc ions were shown to be crucial for substrate binding. These studies also suggest Lys86 as the most probable catalytic base abstracting the proton in the isomerization reaction. Plausible roles for the highly conserved residues Lys132 and Arg274 could also be discerned based on comparison of the crystal structures of wild‐type and mutant PMIs. PMIs from prokaryotes possess a low sequence identity to the human enzyme, ranging between 30% and 40%. Since PMI is important for the virulence of many pathogenic organisms, the identification of catalytically important residues will facilitate its use as a potential antimicrobial drug target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to establish the base line hematological values in Malnad Gidda cattle during winter and summer seasons under the agro-climatic condition of Western Ghats of Karnataka. Thirty healthy Malnad Gidda cattle divided into five groups based on age, sex and lactation. The mean values of TEC, Hb, PCV, ESR, TLC and eosinophil per cent were significantly (P<0.05) higher in adult animals than young animals in both sexes. But, MCV was significantly (P<0.05) higher in young compared to adult animals. The mean values of MCH, MCHC, neutrophil, basophil, monocyte and lymphocyte per cent did not vary significantly among the age groups and among the gender. The mean values of all the above parameters between sexes within age groups and between the seasons were not significantly different. The established hematological values in present study could be used as reference values in Malnad Gidda breed reared under similar climatic and environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor nanoparticles have gained importance because of their interesting optical properties. Among these, lead sulfide (PbS) has been extensively studied due to its potential technological applications in field effect transistors, solar cells, photo-voltaics, light emitting diodes, photocatalysis, photo-luminescence, infrared photodetectors, environmental and biological sensors. Hence there is a need to explore cost effective and eco-friendly biological routes for their synthesis. In this paper, biosynthesis of PbS nanoparticles were carried out using endophytic fungi, subsequently detailed characterization was also performed using UV–visible, fluorescence spectrometer, FTIR, SEM, TEM, EDX and XRD. TEM revealed the formation of PbS nanoparticles in typical size range of 35–100 nm. The application of these nanoparticles for detection of arsenic in aqueous solution through their absorbance properties was also dealt. Importantly, the results were demonstrated for detection of 50 ppb As (III) in water without any interference of other selected ions maintained upto 20 ppb under same conditions. Further, the correlation for the bio-sensitivity of PbS nanoparticles based on the quenching effect with arsenic concentrations ranging between 10 and 100 ppb in water samples was deduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proliferative glomerulonephritis occurring as a consequence of monoclonal glomerular deposits of IgG is uncommon. It is a form of renal involvement in monoclonal gammopathy that mimics immune complex glomerulonephritis. Here, we report the first series of proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal IgG deposits (PGNMID) from the Indian subcontinent highlighting use of light chain immunofluorescence (IF) in routine renal biopsy interpretation. We retrieved 6 patients diagnosed as proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal IgG deposits (PGNMID) out of 160 biopsies (3.7%) with membranoproliferative patterns over 5 1/2 years (2009-2014), one of whom had recurrence 6 months post-renal transplant. Four (67%) patients presented with rapidly progressive renal failure and two (33%) with nephrotic syndrome. None of these patients had overt multiple myeloma. The predominant histologic pattern was membranoproliferative with all the biopsies showing IgG3 Kappa deposits on IF. The deposits were primarily subendothelial on electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The renal diseases most frequently associated with myeloma include cast nephropathy (CN), amyloidosis and monoclonal immunoglobulin deposition disease. Light chain proximal tubulopathy (LCPT) is reported less frequently. Majority of the cases with κ-restriction present with Fanconi syndrome (FS) and show crystals in proximal tubular epithelial cytoplasm. In contrast, those with λ-restriction are infrequently associated with FS and show cytoplasmic vacuolations in proximal tubular epithelial cytoplasm. Combination of morphologies in kidney affected by plasma cell dyscrasias is rare and co-existence of LCPT and CN is one of the rarest. We report a case of multiple myeloma having this rare combination of morphologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 40‑year‑old male presented with nephrotic syndrome. Light microscopic analysis of the renal biopsy showed thickening of the glomerular capillary wall. Immunofluorescence examination revealed granular deposition of monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig) G3‑kappa and complement C3 along the glomerular basement membrane. Electron microscopy showed subepithelial electron dense deposits, thus confirming membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) with monoclonal gammopathy. MGN with monoclonal gammopathy is an extremely rare but distinctive entity. This patient was treated with a combination of bortezomib, thalidomide and dexamethasone and showed partial remission of his nephrotic state and dysproteinemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dyeing behavior of natural dye extracted from the leaves ofPsidium guajuvaL on silk fabric has been studied. Color values and color coordinates in terms of L*, a*, b*, C, and h were examined. A range of shades were obtained when dyed with different mordants and mordanting techniques. The extracted dye was tested for some of the ecoparameters using atomic absorption spectrophotometry and GC/MS. The test results were compared with the set standards to determine the ecofriendliness of natural dye. Their concentrations were found to be lower than the stipulated limits. Dyed samples were tested for antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The dyed silk fabrics showed acceptable fastness properties and also were found to possess antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Empowerment in the content of women's development is way of defining, challenging and overcoming barrier in a woman's life through which she increases her ability to shape her life and environment. It is an active, multidimensional process which should enable women to realize their full identity and power in all spheres of life. Based on these, the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore implemented the project "Rural Bio-Resource Complex" funded by Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, since April 2005. Project envisages improving the standard of living of all families coming in the project area. Appropriate strategies for empowerment of SHG women is addressed through organizing appropriate trainings both on and off-campus, including higher level trainings, follow-up activities, providing relevant leaflets and folders, exposures besides recognizing and encouraging women to come forward and take up processing and of linger millet products value addition and income generating activities. The project has made a successful impact in improving the livelihood security for rural women in Tubagere Hobli of Doddaballapura Taluk of Bangalore rural district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

total of sixty non repetitive isolates of group A streptococci (GAS) recovered from throat cultures of asymptomatic school children ( n = 36), school children with clinical pharyngitis ( n = 9) and hospital patients with clinical pharyngitis ( n = 4) as well as diverse clinical samples from invasive GAS disease ( n = 11) were subjected to emm typing. A total of 35 emm types including 3 new subtypes were identified among them. Types emm 12 (16.6%) and emm 71 (6.6%) were the most prevalent. The distribution of emm types identified among school children were similar to those encountered among invasive isolates but was significantly different from those reported elsewhere in India. Our study confirms the high diversity among Indian GAS isolates as well as significant regional differences among the distribution of emm types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we explore the suitability of subspace models like 2DPCA [Yang et al., IEEE Trans Pattern Anal Machine Intelligence 26 (2004), 131–137], 2DFLD [Yang et al., Pattern Recogn 38 (2005), 1125–1129], etc. for document script and language identification. They are employed to identify language and script at both paragraph and word level. Elaborate experimentation has been conducted which has revealed that they are robust enough to handle highly confusing scripts and their performance does not degrade drastically even in the presence of noise. A generic language identification has been attempted in this work, to identify languages of both Asian and European origin by considering a dataset of 20 different languages. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 20, 140–148, 2010 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 25-year-old female presented with decreased urine output, deranged renal function, thrombocytopenia, and hemolytic anemia. Kidney biopsy was consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy with acute cortical necrosis and Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and urine output improved after five sessions of plasma exchange. Renal function showed a delayed recovery and serum creatinine normalized by 3 months. This is first case of successful use of plasma exchange in hemolytic uremic syndrome with cortical necrosis associated with IgAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A rapid, sensitive and accurate liquid chromatographic–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS–MS) method is described for the determination of duloxetine in human plasma. Duloxetine was extracted from plasma using methanol and separated on a C18 column. The mobile phase consisting of a mixture of acetonitrile and 5mM ammonium acetate (45:55, v/v, pH 3.5) was delivered at a flow rate of 0.3ml/min. Atmospheric pressure ionization (API) source was operated in positive ion mode. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode using the transitions of m/z 298.1→ m/z 44.0 and m/z 376.2→ m/z 123.2 were used to quantify duloxetine and internal standard (I.S.), respectively. The linearity was obtained over the concentration range of 0.1–50.0ng/ml and the lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) was 0.1ng/ml. This method was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic study of a duloxetine formulation product after oral administration to healthy human subjects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A rapid, sensitive and accurate liquid chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometry method is described for the simultaneous determination of nebivolol and valsartan in human plasma. Nebivolol and valsartan were extracted from plasma using acetonitrile and separated on a C18 column. The mobile phase consisting of a mixture of acetonitrile and 0.05mM formic acid (50:50v/v, pH 3.5) was delivered at a flow rate of 0.25ml/min. Atmospheric pressure ionization (API) source was operated in both positive and negative ion mode for nebivolol and valsartan, respectively. Selected reaction monitoring mode (SRM) using the transitions of m/z 406.1→ m/z 150.9; m/z 434.2→ m/z 179.0 and m/z 409.4→ m/z 228.1 were used to quantify nebivolol, valsartan and internal standard (IS), respectively. The linearity was obtained over the concentration range of 0.01–50.0ng/ml and 1.0–2000.0ng/ml and the lower limits of quantitation were 0.01ng/ml and 1.0ng/ml for nebivolol and valsartan, respectively. This method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of fixed dose combination (FDC) of nebivolol and valsartan formulation product after an oral administration to healthy human subjects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A simple, rapid, sensitive and specific liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for quantification of metoprolol tartrate (MT) and ramipril, in human plasma. Both the drugs were extracted by liquid–liquid extraction with diethyl ether–dichloromethane (70:30, v/v). The chromatographic separation was performed on a reversed-phase C8 column with a mobile phase of 10mM ammonium formate–methanol (3:97, v/v). The protonated analyte was quantitated in positive ionization by multiple reaction monitoring with a mass spectrometer. The method was validated over the concentration range of 5–500ng/ml for metoprolol and ramipril in human plasma. The precursor to product ion transitions of m/z 268.0–103.10 and m/z 417.20–117.20 were used to measure metoprolol and ramipril, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The objective of the present work is to develop a simple and sensitive method for analysis of human insulin injection by using reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography technique. A reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography method with UV-detection at room temperature has been developed for the analysis of insulin from formulation. Hypersil BDS C-18 was used as stationary phase, and mobile phase consisted of 60 volume of 1 mmol sodium sulphate and 0.2% triethylamine in water, pH 3.2 adjusted by phosphoric acid, and 40 volume of acetonitrile. The eluent was monitored with a UV detector set at 214 nm with a flow rate of 1 ml/min, and sample size of 20 µl were carried out at room temperature all over the study. The method produced linear response over the concentration range of 10-100 µg/ml, with a mean recovery of 97 ± 0.31% as well as average intra- and inter-day variations of 1.35 and 5.13% respectively. The limits of detection and quantitation of the method were 0.25 and 0.75 µg/ml respectively. Considering the analysis specifications, the system is suitable for direct analysis of routine formulations and stability studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which formulated a clustering algorithm for symbolic objects based on the gravitational approach. Purpose of cluster analysis; Concepts and definitions in analyzing symbolic objects; Results; Conclusion.

Finger millet is gaining importance as a food crop with the increasing emphasis on nutritional aspects and drought resilience. However, yield improvement has stagnated. Therefore, popular varieties have been examined for the purpose of whether direct selection for grain yield can be continued or an alternate trait-based approach using the germplasm is necessary. Direct selection for grain yield over the ruling variety, cv. GPU-28 (Germplasm Unit) has not been satisfactory. The path analysis has revealed a high direct effect of mean ear weight on grain yield followed by a moderate direct effect of photosynthetic rate and leaf area index. Furthermore, backward stepwise regression analysis revealed that among the independent traits, the mean ear weight made a significant contribution (60.8%) towards grain yield, followed by the photosynthetic rate (39.2%). The regression equation predicts the inclusion of mean ear weight by 1.0 g extra (as in GE-2672) to cv. GPU-28 will increase grain yield by 4.74%. The trait-specific genotypes are superior to the cv. GPU-28 were GPU-67 (photosynthetic rate) and GE-2672 (mean ear weight) and they could be used as donors for yield improvement. Future selection would aim for genotypes having 70–75 days for flowering with 4−5 productive tillers and mean ear weight of more than 8−9 g/ear. The possible approaches for enhancing grain yield are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Radiation is increasingly being used for medical purposes and it is an established weapon in the diagnosis and the therapy of cancer. An exposure to 1-2 Gy causes the NVD (Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) syndrome, whereas an exposure to 2-6 Gy causes the hematopoietic syndrome. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of the Nardostachys jatamansi root extract (NJE) on the radiation induced hematological damage inrats. Methods: EBR was performed at the Microtron Centre, Mangalore University, India. Rats were treated with NJE once daily for 15 days before and after the irradiation. After the irradiation, blood was collected for determining the peripheral blood counts (RBC and WBC), hemoglobin, the platelet count and the packed cell volume (PCV) at 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours and 5, 10 and 15 days post irradiation. The endogenous spleen colony count was performed at the end of the experiment. The data was analyzed by one-way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey's test for multiplecomparisons. Result: The rats treated with NJE exhibited a time dependent significant elevation (p<0.001) in all the hematological parameters studied as compared to irradiated animals. The endogenous spleen colony count was elevated in animals treated with NJE before irradiation as compared to that of radiation control animals and also an elevation in spleen colony count was observed in pre-irradiation treatment of rats with NJE as compared to drug control animals. Conclusion: From this study, it was concluded that, NJE provides protection by modulating the radiation induced damage to the hematopoietic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The report documents an unusually large voluminous uterine eversion and greatly distended urinary bladder in a she buffaloe and its successful clinical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gymnacranthera canarica (King) Warb is an important tree species associated with Myristica swamps in the Western Ghats. The species is endemic to Western Ghats, India and economically important as fruit mace is used as spice. It is distributed all along the Western Ghats and already listed as threatened. It represents obligate swampy species and helps to understand the response of swampy species to disturbances. In this study an attempt was made to assess the influence of disturbance on swampy species wood specific gravity and fibre length. Using increment borer wood core samples were collected from selected locations in central Western Ghats. The samples were processed in the laboratory and wood specific gravity and fibre length was assessed. Then it was compared across the less disturbed and highly disturbed swamps at six locations. The results indicated that in all the six locations specific gravity decreases with increased level of disturbance to swamps. However, the results were significant at only two locations namely Thorme and Sampaje. The frequency distribution of specific gravity values was positively skewed for the less disturbed swamps whereas it was negatively skewed for highly disturbed swamps. The fibre length had also showed similar pattern. In conclusion our study indicates that disturbance to swamps alters the wood specific gravity and fibre length of swamp associated tree species. Our finding would help in developing long term strategies and action plans for conservation of swamps and its constituent species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented regarding the diagnosing the coexistence between tuberculosis and squamous cell carcinoma in a lymph node, by fine needle aspiration cytology.

A Goat was presented with a large mass below the left ear and a complaint of loss of appetite and lethargic. The clinical examination showed fluctuating painful swelling just below the ear close to the parotid salivary gland. The rectal temperature was high and animal was dull and depressed. Based on the clinical observation and history it was diagnosed as Cutaneous Lymphadenitis with the confirmation after bacterial culture. The treatment for the swelling was initiated with the draining out of the abscess fluid by a stab incision. After complete drainage of purulent discharge the wound was flushed with 2% hydrogen peroxide, later irrigated with 1:2000 potassium permanganate solution. Gauze with Tincture Iodine was inserted inside the cavity. Fluid, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory were give for five day as supportive along with local wound dressing. By twelfth day, the animal recovered successfully with normal temperature and healthy signs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal diet is an essential factor that directly and indirectly regulates fetal growth. Exposure to certain environmental conditions substantially impacts an individual's short- and long-term health. Adipose tissue dysfunction is a worldwide chronic disease caused by improper lipid build-up in adipose tissue leading to obesity. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to invent anti-obesity agents. As a keto–carotenoid, Astaxanthin (AsX) has been shown to have preventive effects against problems associated with obesity. A crucial role in the pathogenesis of obesity has been attributed to dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids. Adipose tissue plays a vital role in maintaining overall body homeostasis. Metabolic dysfunction of white adipocytes forms a critical step in the emergence of insulin resistance and related diseases. Here we aim to investigate the effect of AsX and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation on the proteomic profile of perinatal undernutrition-induced adipose tissue dysfunction in adult life using a rat model. The LC–MS/MS quantitative proteomics enabled us to identify differentially expressed proteins in perinatal undernourished but AsX and DHA-supplemented animal models. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD041772.This study explored biological roles, molecular functions of differentially expressed proteins, and pathways related to adipose tissue dysfunction induced by undernutrition and its effective modulation by AsX and DHA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sheep aged 3 years with a open wound above the anus was examined for its management. The animal was having the recurrent rectal prolapsed through the open wound. Surgical management was done. Fistulous wound was scrapped and wound edges were trimmed. Mucocutaneous borders were separated and again resutured. The fistulous wound was closed. The wound healed uneventfully and was no occurrence of the fistula even after six months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are the colored compounds that prominently occur in fruits, vegetables, flowers, algae, fungi, yeast, and marine organisms. The coloration of carotenoids is mainly due to varieties of conjugated double bonds, which act as a light-absorbing chromophores. β-Carotene, α-Carotene, Lycopene, Astaxanthin, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, β-Cryptoxanthin, α-Cryptoxanthin, γ-Carotene and Fucoxanthin are the common carotenoids of the human diet. This review aimed at providing scientific evidence supporting the benefits of nutritional carotenoid intake on gut microbiota modulation in different disease models. Carotenoids have some beneficial effects on human health, and it is due to the activity of pro-vitamin A and antioxidant function. Although mechanisms are under investigation, studies suggest that carotenoid intake may reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, eye disease, haematological disease, immune stimulants, and improve cognitive function. Recent studies have shown that carotenoids can modulate gut microbiota composition associated with host health. The human gut harbors a complex community of over 100 trillion microbial cells, influencing human physiology, metabolism, nutrition, and immune function. The combination of extrinsic (lifestyle and medication) and intrinsic (host genetics, immune and metabolic regulations) factors shapes the gut microbiota. Diet is a crucial modifiable factor influencing gut microbiota composition, indicating the potential for therapeutic dietary strategies to manipulate microbial diversity, design, and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) and samarium (Sm) doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesised by solution combustion approach using citric acid as fuel. The formation of hexagonal wurtzite structure of pure and Sm doped ZnO powder was prepared and confirmed by x-ray diffraction (XRD). The structure formation, morphological and elemental analysis of pure and Sm doped ZnO powder were analysed using XRD, Raman spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF). The results indicated that the trivalent Sm ions were successfully doped in to the lattice of ZnO matrix. The XRD images showed that both ZnO and Sm doped ZnO NPs are highly crystalline, having hexagonal wurtzite structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient nonparametric, hierarchical, symbolic agglomerative clustering procedure based on the mutual nearest neighbourhood concept is proposed for classifying remotely sensed multispectral data. The procedure utilized a data reduction technique and an innovative symbolic concept to minimize the memory and computational time requirements. A new non-metric similarity measure and a novel method of formulation of composite symbolic objects are proposed to enrich the performance of the algorithm. A Mean Difference Index (MDI) concept for identifying the optimal number of classes was used. Experiments were conducted on IRS (Indian Remote Sensing) satellite data to authenticate the efficacy of the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wilms' tumor is the commonest primary malignant renal tumor in childhood. Rarely, it may present in the adult age group. Case presentation: We report a 48-year-old male presenting with flank pain and haematuria. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a right renal mass measuring 11 × 10 cms, and a clinical diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma was made. Nephrectomy was performed, and a final diagnosis of adult Wilms' tumor was made based on the criteria proposed by Kilton et al. Conclusion: The possibility of an adult Wilms' tumor should be considered when a patient presents with pain in the flank and a renal mass. Rarity of the tumor favors documentation in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case study is presented of a 28-day-old male baby which was diagnosed with Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis (IHPS), a condition in which the pyloric muscle thickens and cannot relax, causing gastric outlet obstruction.

Background: Organophosphorus compound poisoning (OPCP) is a major public health problem in developing countries like India. Atropine and oximes remain the main-stay of management. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) has shown benefit in the management of OPCP. Aims: This study was designed to assess the effect of MgSO4 on outcome in OPCP patients admitted to Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Settings and Design: Double-blind prospective randomized clinical trial in an ICU of tertiary care institution. Methods: One hundred patients (50 in each group) of OPCP, confirmed by history and syndrome of OPCP with low plasma pseudocholinesterase, aged between 18 and 60 years were studied. Magnesium group (Group M) received 4 g of 20% MgSO4 infusion over 30 min at admission to ICU, control group (Group C) received normal saline placebo in the same manner. Patients were assessed for the need for intubation, requirement of atropine, duration of mechanical ventilation, duration of ICU stay, and its effect on mortality. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test for categorical data, independent sample t-test, and paired t-test for nominal data. Results: Demographics and basal serum magnesium levels were comparable. Atropine requirement was higher in Group C (74.82 ± 22.39 mg) compared to Group M (53.11 ± 45.83 mg) (P < 0.001). A total of 33 patients in Group C and 23 patients in Group M required intubation, respectively (P = 0.043). The mean duration of mechanical ventilation was 4.51 ± 2 days in Group C compared to 4.13 ± 1.6 days in Group M (P = 0.45). ICU stay was 5.36 ± 2.018 days in Group C compared to 4.54 ± 1.581 days in Group M (P = 0.026). There was no significant difference in mortality between the groups. Conclusion: Four grams of MgSO4 given to OPCP patients within 24 h of admission to ICU, decreases atropine requirement, need for intubation, and ICU stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Organophosphate compound poisoning (OPCP) is associated with high incidence of delirium. Melatonin has been tried in the treatment of delirium and has shown a beneficial effect in OPCP. This study was conducted to know the effect of melatonin on duration of delirium and recovery profile in OPCP patients. Methods: Double-blind randomised placebo control trial in which 56 patients of OPCP confirmed by history and syndrome of OPCP with low plasma pseudocholinesterase, aged >18 years and weighing between 50 and 100 kg, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score of <20 were studied. Group M (n = 26) received tablet melatonin 3 mg and Group C (n = 30) received placebo tablet at 9 PM, every night throughout the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay. Delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method for ICU, thrice a day. Sedation was provided with injection midazolam, fentanyl and lorazepam. Duration of mechanical ventilation, vital parameters, ICU stay, sedative and atropine requirement, were recorded. Results: The time taken to be delirium free was significantly lower in Group M (6 ± 2.92 days) compared to Group C (9.05 ± 2.75 days) (P = 0.001) and prevalence of delirium was significantly decreased in Group M compared to Group C from day 3 onwards. The requirement of midazolam (Group M - 2.98 ± 4.99 mg/day, Group C - 9.68 ± 9.17 mg/day, P < 0.001) and fentanyl (Group M - 94.09 ± 170.05 μg/day, Group C - 189.33 ± 156.38 μg/day, P = 0.03) decreased significantly in Group M. There was no significant difference in the average atropine consumption (P = 0.27), duration of mechanical ventilation (P = 0.26), ICU stay (P = 0.21) and the number of patients requiring mechanical ventilation (P = 0.50). Conclusion: Orally given melatonin in organophosphate compound poisoning patients reduces the duration of delirium and the requirement of sedation and analgesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the leaf extracts of Carica papaya (Linn.) on hematologic and biochemical changes occurring due to irradiation of mice to sub-lethal doses of Electron Beam Radiation (EBR). The immunomodulatory response of C. papaya (Linn.) extract to the radiological effects by determining the levels of interleukin-6. The serum total antioxidants, lipid peroxidation and the biochemical changes in liver and kidney function were assessed. Reduction in the hematological parameters like hemoglobin, RBC, WBC and platelets were seen in the irradiated groups compared to the control group. The elevated serum malondialdehyde levels indicate increased lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione levels and total antioxidant capacity suggest prominent oxidative stress in the irradiated groups. C. papaya (Linn.) (pre-treatment + radiation) treated groups have shown significant improvements in the hematological parameters. Reduction in the malondialdehyde levels and increased reduced glutathione levels indicate amelioration of the oxidative stress. There is decrease in the cytogenetic damages in the C.papaya (Linn.) (pre-treatment + radiation) treated groups compared to the radiation control. Significant changes were seen in the interleukin-6 levels of C. papaya (Linn.) (pre-treatment + radiation) treated groups indicate enhanced immune response compared to the irradiation control groups. The results indicate that the C. papaya (Linn.) aqueous extracts play a protective role in radiation induced hematological and antioxidant suppression. Also it enhances membrane stabilization and reduces cytogenetic damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a 50‑year‑old female who presented with inflammatory arthritis, upper respiratory tract symptoms, and microscopic hematuria with nephrotic range proteinuria. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) were detectable and kidney biopsy showed pauci‑immune focal necrotizing crescentic glomerulonephritis. She was treated with pulse intravenous cyclophosphamide (CYC) and prednisolone. Patient developed severe leucopenia after the first dose and subsequently had leucopenia to low dose CYC, mycophenolate mofetil and azathioprine were also tried. However, patient developed leukopenia with all the above agents. Initiation of tacrolimus (TAC) was followed by dramatic response: Proteinuria decreased, serum albumin normalized and C‑ANCA and anti‑PR3 ANCA assays became negative. This is the first successful case of TAC as an induction agent in a patient with GPA (ANCA associated vasculitis with renal involvement). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the case of recurrent rectal prolapse in a three-year old ram with a history of open wound above the anus. Topics covered include clinical background of the ram, treatment with antibiotic ceftriaxone and povidone iodine and the effectiveness of the treatment in preventing the reoccurrence of the fistula.

The aqueous extract of raw areca nut extract was evaluated for its acute oral toxicity study in rats. Healthy male and female Wistar albino rats aged between 10 to 12 weeks and weighing 190 to 210 g adult were selected. The animals were fasted overnight and raw areca nut extract in graded doses was administered as a single dose by gavage using a gavaging tube. Careful general clinical observations were made for 14 days. The toxicity signs were depression, profuse salivation, tremors, muscular incoordination, convulsions, writhing movement of neck and severe diarrhoea. The LD50 values of raw areca nut extract in male and female rats were found to be 2321.96 and 2257.52 mg/kg, respectively. The LD50 value in female rats was slightly lower than that of the male rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysora rust (Southern Corn Rust) is a major disease of maize in tropical and subtropical region causing yield loss in excess of 45%. The loci governing resistance (Rpp9, RppQ and RppD) have been mapped to 10.01 bins on short arm of maize chromosome 10, which also has genes for common rust resistance like Rpl and Rp5. With the publication of maize draft genomic sequence we tried to annotate the region spanning these genes using comparative genomic tools. We constructed a physical map using the various loci and the corresponding markers, BAC clones and contigs reported from the previous researchers and using MaizeGDB. The sequence for this region was downloaded from maizesequence.org. The sequence was scanned for coding regions using GENSCAN and the CDS and peptides obtained along with the whole sequence (in bits of 1 MB) was subjected to BLAST analysis in NCBI-nBLAST, NCBI-pBLAST, COGE-BLAST and MaizeGDB BLAST. The region when located on a physical map, had all the loci governing Polysora rust resistance in a overlapping position and was around 3 MB size. Two loci RppQ and RppD covered large portion of the 3MB region whereas Rpp9 was 82769 bp long. The BLAST results indicated the similarity of the region to many loci responsible for disease resistance like PR protein, Serine/threonine kinase protein, rust resistance protein (rp3-l), receptor kinases and zein cluster. The region shared homology with rice, sorghum and brachypodium grass and we found some orthologs having NB-LRR domain. Hence from this analysis it could be concluded that the region is responsible for disease resistance and host many other genes linked with resistance to various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO2 thin films have been deposited on glass and indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrates by sol–gel technique. The influence of annealing temperature on the structural, morphological and optical properties has been examined. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results reveal the amorphous nature of the as-deposited film whereas the annealed films are found to be in the crystalline anatase phase. The surface morphology of the films at different annealing temperatures has been examined by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The in situ surface morphology of the as-deposited and annealed TiO2 films has also been examined by optical polaromicrograph (OPM). TiO2 films infatuated different structural and surface features with variation of annealing temperature. The optical studies on these films suggest their possible usage in sun-shielding applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To study the effect of monosodium glutamate(MSG)on biochemical parameters of renal tissue and certain blood parameters in adult albino rats. Methods Wistar rats of either sex(average weight of 200 g)were divided into control group and experimental group. The experimental group of rats received MSG intraperitoneally (4 g/kg/bw) for a duration of 30 days whereas the control group received distilled water intraperitoneally of the same volume. At the end of the experiment period, 2 ml of blood was collected through cardiac puncture for the estimation of the blood parameters. The kidneys were carefully dissected out and sliced into small pieces and centrifuged. The supernatant obtained was used for the estimation of lipid peroxidation, malondialdehyde(MDA),glutathione(GSH)and superoxide dismutase(SOD).Results There was an increase in the level of tissue lipid peroxidation (16-402 ±2-290,P <0-0001),blood urea (29-468 ±0-944, P <0-0001) and blood creatnine (0-963 ± 0-015,P <0-5)in the experimental group than when compared to the controls(5-881 ± 0-875,13-551 ± 0-946 and 0-376 ± 0-052 respectively)and the tissue GSH(2-82 ± 0-856,P <0-0001) and SOD(5-150 ± 1-098,P <0-0001)level was decreased in the experimental group than the control(7-268 ± 0-489 and 13-086 ± 0-611).Conclusion The results of our study suggest that exposure to MSG may cause an adverse effect on the renal function which might be due to oxidative stress induced by MSG on the renal tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Exposure to stressful situations is among the most common human experiences. Chronic stress exposure has detrimental effect on several cell functions. In this study,we investigated the changes in selected biochemical and lipid parameters following exposure to chronic unpredictable stressors for 10 days. Methods Wistar strain adult albino rats were divided into two group as non stressed group (n = 8) and stressed group (n = 8). The stressed groups were exposed to 10 days of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). At the end of the 10th day the animals were anaesthetized and blood samples were collected through cardiac puncture. The blood samples of both the groups were analyzed for selected biochemical and lipid parameters. The results were analyzed statistically by using student't test. P <0.05 was considered as significant. Results All the biochemical (serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), blood sugar, tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum lipid profile (cholesterol, serum triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) were significantly increased in the stressed group when compared to the non stressed group. The serum high-density lipoproteins (HDL) level did not show any statistically significant changes. The weight of the adrenal gland also showed a significant increase in the stressed group. Conclusion The present data indicate that cumulative effect of repeated chronic unpredictable stressors on a daily basis for a period of 10 days increases the biochemical and lipid parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A simple, sensitive and specific liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for quantification of metoprolol succinate (MPS) and amlodipine besylate (AM) using hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) as IS in human plasma. Both the drugs were extracted by simple liquid–liquid extraction with chloroform. The chromatographic separation was performed on a reversed-phase peerless basic C18 column with a mobile phase of methanol–water containing 0.5% formic acid (8:2, v/v). The protonated analyte was quantitated in positive ionization by multiple reaction monitoring with a mass spectrometer. The method was validated over the concentration range of 1–100ng/ml for MPS and 1–15ng/ml AM in human plasma. The MRM transition of m/z 268.10–103.10, m/z 409.10–334.20 and m/z 296.00–205.10 were used to measure MPS, AM and HCTZ (IS), respectively. This method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of fixed dose combination (FDC) of MPS and AM formulation product after an oral administration to Indian healthy human volunteers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A simple high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of etoricoxib in human plasma has been developed. An aliquot quantity of 1 ml plasma sample was taken and 10 µl internal standard was added and mixed. Saturated borate solution of 0.3 ml was added to it and mixed for 1 minute followed by liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate. Organic layer was separated and evaporated to dryness under nitrogen atmosphere at low temperature (below 50°). Residue was reconstituted with 150 µl of mobile phase. During the whole procedure the samples were protected from light. The assay was performed on Hypersil BDS, C18 (150x4.6 mm, 5 μ particle size) column, using 10 milimol ammonium acetate buffer:acetonitrile = 65:35 v/v as mobile phase with ultra violet detection at 235 nm. Lower limit of detection was 10 ng/ml and lower limit of quantitation was 20 ng/ml. Maximum between-run precision was 7.94%. Mean extraction recovery was found to be 79.53 to 85.70%. Stability study showed that after three freeze-thaw cycles the loss of three quality control samples were less than 10%. Samples were stable at room temperature for 12 h and at -20° for 3 months. Before injecting onto HPLC system, the processed samples were stable for at least 8 h. The method was used to perform bioequivalence study in human. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal analysis of Ge20Te80−xPbx (2≤x≤8) glasses has been undertaken using modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC). The compositional dependence of thermal parameters is investigated. The crystallization temperatures (Tc) estimated from the total heat flow show detectable changes at compositions x=4, 6.5 and 7.5. Further, the heat capacity change at the glass transition temperature, measured from the reversible heat flow curve (ΔCpR), is found to exhibit a maximum and an inflexion at compositions x=4 and 6.5 and minimum at x=7.5, respectively. Also, the relaxation enthalpy, estimated from the area under the non-reversing heat flow curve (ΔHNR), exhibits similar features at the said compositions. From the observed MDSC results, it has been proposed that the compositions x=4 and x=6.5 denote to the onset and completion of rigidity percolation and x=7.5 corresponds to the chemical threshold of the system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]