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Western Ghats are designated as world heritage sites and global biodiversity hotspots. Microbial diversity in this forest area has been largely neglected and is getting attention since the end of the last millennium. In this review, we have studied and organized various microorganisms from Western Ghats and their diversity, important characteristics and potential biotechnological applications. Microorganisms from Western Ghats have been explored individually for potential bioactive molecules. While most of the microorganisms were analyzed for antimicrobial activities, there have been studies on microbial promotion of plant growth. The microbes analyzed included from aquatics, soil, rhizosphere, phyllosphere and even as endophytes. There have been microorganisms which have shown antioxidant and anti-cancerous activities. There are microorganisms capable of degrading plant wastes and also xenobiotics. Microorganisms capable of producing industrially important enzymes have also been reported. The present review explores largely neglected microbial diversity with respect to their ability to produce potential bioactive biomolecules.

Background and Objectives: Dermatoglyphics deals with the study of the epidermal ridges and their congurations on the ngers, palms and soles. Epidermal ridge patterns form early in fetal development and remain unchanged throughout life and play a signicant role in the diagnosis of many disorders with genetic background. As the primary palate, lip and dermal ridges develop during the same period of intrauterine life, the genetic message contained in the genome - normal or abnormal, is deciphered during this period and is also reected by dermatoglyphics. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the different dermatoglyphic patterns and their correlation with skeletal malocclusions. The study was conducted on 90 individuals divided into 3 equal groups- skeletal Methods: class I, II and III. Dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using ink method following rolling impression technique. The dermatoglyphic data was assessed for different nger ridge patterns and total ridge count (TRC). On compar Results: ison skeletal class I group showed markedly decreased number of loops and increased total ridge count (TRC). Skeletal class II showed markedly increased number of loops and markedly decreased TRC. Skeletal class III showed markedly decreased number of arches and increased TRC. Loops were found to be the most predominant pattern in skeletal class II and III groups. The mean TRC was found to be increased in skeletal class III group and markedly decreased in skeletal class II group which was statistically signicant. Dermatoglyphics can be used as a screening tool and for early prediction of skeletal mal Conclusion: occlusion at a younger age group. Dermatoglyphics have important practical and clinical implications which can be applied for preventive and interceptive orthodontics among paediatric patients and also for parent counseling.

Katigraha is one among the Vataja Nanatmaja Vyadhi which simulates with the signs and symptoms of Low Back pain. It continues to be the most common health concern for which patients seek primary care therapy. Our Acharyas explains Katigraha as a Lakshana in various Vatavyadhi and in other diseases. Here, Katigraha indicates a disease condition of the back associated with pain and stiff movements. As Gada Nigraha clearly states pain is produced due to stiffness produced by Saama or Niraama Vayu movement in to Kati hence this suggests of presence of Dhatu Kshayatmaka and Marga Avarodhaka type of Samprapti. Hence in this context Katigraha denotes a group of symptoms characterized by the restriction of movements of Kati region in which pain would be a main feature as Graha alternatively means pain as restriction is said to produce pain in the particular region. The backache or lumbago is one of conditions which results from violation of bio mechanics of spine as it results when the physical and mental strain and faulty postures alter anthropometrical precision. The 70-80% of world population suffers from backache at some point of their life. As the back pain is very subjective in nature, there are very few objectives finding in history, clinical examination and even on extensive radiological or laboratory investigation.

Advanced life style and changing food habits affects the activities of individual which leads to many diseases and Peripheral Vascular Diseases are one among them. They are characterized by reduction of blood flow and oxygen supply through peripheral vascular vessels. This can happen in arteries or veins. The incidence of Varicose vein is more common with age and high prevalence is after 30 years of life. PAD occurs in patients over 40 years old; the highest incidence occurs in the sixth and seventh decades of life and it affects 10-15% of the general population. The symptoms of Uttana Vatarakta owing to the Margavarana pathology simulate with the symptoms of Peripheral vascular diseases and some of the etiological factors of Uttana Vatarakta in the writing are specific in inclining Peripheral Vascular Diseases. Ayurveda emphasise the importance of study on etiopathogenesis of disease before the planning of treatment protocol. In this study an effort is done to identify the Nidanas and pattern of Samprapti in relation with Peripheral vascular diseases for the better understanding of different clinical presentations of Uttana Vatarakta.

Background: Hypothyroidism is the most common functional disorder of the thyroid gland. It is a hypometabolic clinical state resulting from inadequate production of thyroid hormones for prolonged periods. The prevalence of this disease in India is 6% and more than 10 million cases per year are reported. It is a multisystemic disorder which has a wide range of clinical symptoms. This condition is not mentioned in Ayurveda classics by any specified name. In Ayurveda, determining the elements that contribute to Samprapti is essential in developing a treatment plan. Hence, the current study attempts to evaluate the Samprapti Ghatakas and as a result, formulate probable Samprapti. Objectives: To study and explore the Samprapti Ghatakas of hypothyroidism and to propose possible Samprapti. Methods: The study was conducted in 100 cases of hypothyroidism between the age of 16 to 70 years. A case proforma was prepared which includes history taking, physical signs and symptoms and required examination. The calculations were done in Microsoft excel and the values obtained were assessed on the basis of percentage of individual parameters in relation with Samprapti Ghatakas of hypothyroidism. Results: Kapha and Vata are the main Doshas involved in the Samprapti. Important Dooshyas are Rasa, Meda. Agni involved is Dhatwagni and the disease is caused primarily due to Dhatwagnimandya. Udakavaha, Annavaha, Medovaha, Swedavaha, Purishavaha, Rasavaha are the main Srotas involved with Sanga type of Srotodushti. Udbhava Sthana can be considered as Amashaya; Sanchara Sthana, Vyakta Sthana and Adhishtana is Sarva Shareera. All the three Rogamarga are involved.

Hridroga (cardiovascular diseases) are the major causes of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. In view of increasing incidence of cardiac disorders in the present era, there is a need to understand the disease more elaborately. Ayurveda has a unique approach towards understanding and diagnosing diseases. Diag- nosis must be done by proper analysis of presenting symptoms of a disease. By the thorough knowledge regarding these signs and symptoms, right diagnosis can be done before planning any treatment. Ayurveda has given utmost importance for diagnosis with due consideration of Lakshanas. Hritshoola (chest pain), Vaivarnya (cyanosis), Moorcha (syncope), Shwasa (dyspnea), Kasa (cough) are the cardinal features of Hridroga. By knowing the whole concept of Lakshanas, diagnosis can be done at an earlier stage. Keywords: Hridroga, Cardiovascular diseases, Samanya Lakshanas

“Hridorogo Hridrogaha" means the impairment in the function of the heart is known as Hridroga. Cardiovascular diseases are the most common diseases which affect the circulatory system including the heart and its vasculature. Darshana, Sparshana and Prashna Pariksha holds relevance in the current clinical methods like history taking, general examination and systemic examination. Trividha pariksha helps to attain an appropriate knowledge regard- ing the Roga and Rogavastha more accurately in Hridroga. The prevailing diagnostic techniques like haematolog- ical, biochemical, invasive, and non-invasive methods aids up in the early diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. The diagnostic approach in a cardiac patient assists to improve the effectiveness of treatment and avoiding long term complications. These examinations help to obtain knowledge regarding life span, the intensity of morbidity and mortality. Keywords: Hridroga, Cardiovascular diseases, Trividha Pariksha, Diagnostic techniques

Ayurveda is the oldest medical science of human civilization which helps in preventing diseases and promoting health and longevity. Cardiovascular diseases are chronic disease pathology with acute manifestation and is a major cause of death in both the elderly and middle-aged. Nidana is the foremost component of Nidana Panchaka, which not only gives knowledge about causative factors of diseases but also helps in planning treatment protocol. Cardi- ovascular disorders as per Ayurveda can be studied under the spectrum of Hridroga. Over nourishment accompa- nied with physical inactivity leading to Santarpana state is well known to cause plethora of diseases like Hridroga. Consumption of food having mutual contradictory qualities results in morbid accumulation of Kapha and Meda in Raktamarga heralding Margavarana. It is said that the best treatment is Nidanaparivarjana i.e, to abstain from the causative factors. This paper deals with all the Nidanas of Hridroga and the importance of Nidanaparivarjana in preventing them. Keywords: Hridroga, Cardiovascular diseases, Nidana, Nidanaparivarjana

Microrobots are motile microsystems constructed using physical, chemical and biological components for operations with respect to definite application. In the present review, we have discussed the various aspects of bio-microrobots, their history and design. While designing a microrobot, two important parameters (and their varities)- actuation and sensing affect the different micromanipulation techniques to be employed (Magnetic, Optical, Electric, fluidic or acoustic). The controlling and actuation system (Vision-based or Force-sensing) selected for the specific application can dictate the fabrication type to be used for manufacture of the microrobot to be used. The controlling parameters are further influenced by the type of propulsion systems, Powering system, and mobility in complex environment and applicability of the microrobot. Presently, the microrobotics has applications in biomedical and environmental engineering. In this review, we have analyzed various aspects of bio-microrobot design, fabrication and applications which can help the future works in nanosciences and bio-based microrobotics.

Lifestyle disorders are becoming the major cause of ill health and disability worldwide. Hemorrhoid is one such disease which makes human life miserable. Hemorrhoids is nothing but the varicosity of blood vessels found inside or around the bottom the rectum and anus. Age group of 45-65yrs, it is estimated that 50-85% of people around the world have hemorrhoids.[1] In India 75% of the population is estimated. Clinical features of hemorrhoid resembles with Arshas. In Ayurveda classics, there are detail information about the Aharaja (Anashana, Adhyashana), Viharaja (Ativyayama, Divaswapna), Manasika (Shoka, Krodha) and Agantujanidanas (Gudakharshana, Vastivibhrama) which are responsible for the manifestation of Arsha. Common symptoms are itching, burning sensation and pain in the region of Guda and finally bleeds.[2] Maintaining the health and providing the health is the main motto of Ayurveda. This ground incorporates usage of different remedies with focusing on Nidana Parivarjana. Thus understanding the Nidana Parivarjana is the prime importance. In this study an effort is done to identify the prime causative factors in deal to Arshas.

In the under graduate studies, teaching the concepts in the course on Embedded Systems has been always challenge for the faculty. Performance of many students is not up to mark as well as the joy of learning is also not observed in them. This paper is based on the experiments carried out with Project Based Learning (PBL) approach with Rubric’s reviews. The study developed a method of self-learning to apply core electronics knowledge to increase student performance and keen interest in Microcontrollers and its applications. The new design method consists of eight-week PBL strategy to work in group of three students to solve real-world problems. The student’s quality results were improved by 8 % and overall performance in scaled up by 29% as compared to successive previous two years. Also, the feedback from the students shows satisfaction as well as joy of learning

Sitopaladi Choorna is a very common formulation prescribed for respiratory disorders. Palatability, mode of administration, refusal for intake due to Katurasa, mixing with honey and carrying honey along with drugs are the drawbacks of Sitopaladi Choorna. If the same could be modified into a form which would render same results of that of Choorna, it would be a better dosage form. Another dosage form namely Lehya is also an important form because the preparation has got good palatability, easy mode of administration and better absorption capacity. In this study, Sitopaladi Choorna was prepared as per mentioned in Charaka Samhita. Then it was converted into Lehya form. The pharmaceutico-analytical data were observed and recorded. Analysis of both prepared formulations was carried out as per mentioned in Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. The prepared Lehya has shown upper hand over Choorna in palatability, shelf life, action and absorption. The overall results are encouraging in the present study.

Extremophiles are a major source for many industrially important biomolecules. Haloarchaea have been extensively studied for their ability to grow in extreme environments and the array of metabolites especially osmolytes they produce with resistance to extreme physical and chemical conditions. In the present study, we have studied the haloarchaeal isolates for their ability to produce industrially important biomolecules like—proteases, amylases, surfactants, antifreeze and antidesiccation proteins. The haloarchaea used in this study were isolated from fish sauce fermentation broth and belonged to Halorubrum sp. SS1 (KY053875.1), Halobacterium sp. SS2 (KY053876.1), Halococcus sp. AMS1 (KU995303.1), Halorhabdus sp. AMS6 (KU995310.1) and Halobacterium sp. SFF3 (KY053871.1). All the archaea isolated in this report had negligible amylase and surfactant activities but showed marginal protease activity. The isolates were also found to be producing significant antifreeze protein stable till 192 h and desiccation tolerant till 240 min of studies. This is the first report of microbial extracellular proteins exhibiting antidesiccation and antifreeze properties, thus introducing a new family of industrially important microbial proteins. These applications have immense potential in food preservation and processing.

Nuclear export of mRNAs is a critical regulatory step in eukaryotic gene expression. The mRNA transcript undergoes extensive processing, and is loaded with a set of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to form export-competent messenger ribonucleoprotein particles (mRNPs) in the nucleus. During the transit of mRNPs through the nuclear pore complex (NPC), the DEAD-box ATPase – DDX19 (herein referring to DDX19A and DDX19B) – remodels mRNPs at the cytoplasmic side of the NPC, by removing a subset of RNA-binding proteins to terminate mRNP export. This requires the RNA-dependent ATPase activity of DDX19 and its dynamic interactions with Gle1 and Nup214. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying these interactions are unclear. We find that DDX19 gets covalently attached with a small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) at lysine 26, which enhances its interaction with Gle1. Furthermore, a SUMOylation-defective mutant of human DDX19B, K26R, failed to provide a complete rescue of the mRNA export defect caused by DDX19 depletion. Collectively, our results suggest that SUMOylation fine-tunes the function of DDX19 in mRNA export by regulating its interaction with Gle1. This study identifies SUMOylation of DDX19 as a modulatory mechanism during the mRNA export process. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Dandruff is one of the most common clinically manifested and studied scalp disorders. It has been associated with both bacteria and fungi. Bacteria and fungi inhabiting the scalp are known to influence each other and manifestation of dandruff. Fungal and bacterial isolates from scalp epithelial flakes (dandruff) were identified by rDNA sequencing. Local oils were tested for fungal and bacterial inhibition, interaction and biofilm formation, cell–cell interactions were studied by auto aggregation and surface thermodynamics studies. The isolates Bacillus sp.C2b1 (MK036745) and Malassezia sp. C2y1 (MK036746) were inhibited by Mahabhrungraj oil. The fungal morphological switch was evident and dependent on nutrition. Cell aggregation studies suggested the interaction of bacteria with yeast (non-pathogenic) phase of the fungus. Bacterial and yeast cells were found to be compatible for biofilm formation. The fungal mycelial surfaces were found to be conducive for interaction with both bacterial cells and yeast forms. The results here indicate the significance of mycelial phase of scalp-isolated fungus in interaction with the bacterial surfaces and also with self-yeast phase surface. This is the first report of the interaction between scalp-isolated microorganisms with respect to their surface interaction capabilities.

Virtual reality (VR) is currently being used in many different areas such as car prototyping, gaming, medical training, teaching, and so on. The Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as systems-on-a-chip (e.g. Raspberry Pi), smart appliances, and sensors support a wide range of services, including machine automation, and remote monitoring and control. This paper introduces a novel social VR-IoT environment, which allows users to share and control local or remote IoT devices in a virtual platform. Two approaches using the VR-IoT solution are presented: one local network-based and one cloud-based. The proposed VR-IoT environment contains VRITESS, the novel VR-IoT Environment Synchronization Scheme, which facilitates a consistent and integrated experience for users by enabling control of real IoT objects with VR headsets. The control of some IoT objects in extreme environments or devices which are complex to operate can be simplified in a virtual environment. The VRITESS synchronization scheme maintains the real objects updated following instructions given in the virtual world and vice-versa. Testing involved local network-based and cloud-based testbeds created with a VR headset and IoT devices with the Performance Engineering Laboratory, Dublin City University's, Ireland. Test results demonstrated that lower latency is experienced in the local-network testbed in comparison with the cloud testbed. Furthermore, tests regarding the communications protocols implemented in the cloud testbed indicated that MQTT generates less delay and data traffic than REST.

Background Azo dye effluents cause severe pollution problems in soil and water and affect their flora and fauna throughout the world. The combination of dye degrading bacteria in the gut of freshwater fish has been considered a prospective approach towards the development of a sustainable environment. In the southernmost part of India, especially in the Namakkal District of Tamil Nadu state, urbanization and industrial development lead to various environmental issues. In lieu, most of the earlier works were carried out on the bacterial dye degradation from soil and water sources, least concentration on the dye degradation from fish gut flora. The objective of this study was to analyze the role of dye degrading bacteria in the gut of freshwater fish collected from the study area. Results We have studied the aerobic degradation of remazol yellow reactive dye by bacteria forming the gut flora of exotic fish Oreochromis mossambica from river Cauvery at Pallipalayam of Namakkal District, India. Eight dye degrading gut isolates viz. Pseudomonas sp. AD1, Bacillus sp. AD2, Staphylococcus sp. AD3, Staphylococcus AD4, Enterobacter sp. AD5, Escherichia coli AD6, Streptococcus sp. AD7 and Clostridium sp. AD8 were obtained capable of growing in azo dye incorporated in Basic mineral medium (BMM) medium. Optimization study was carried out for various parameters for the selected isolates. Based on the growth, maximum growth was seen in Pseudomonas sp. AD1 (in 0–24 h) and minimum in Escherichia coli.AD 6 (in 72–96 h). Pseudomonas sp. AD1, Enterobacter sp.AD5, and Bacillus sp. AD 2 exhibited efficient dye degradation during 0–96 h analysis which was confirmed by FTIR analysis. Loss of azo group stretch at 1572–76 cm−1 and 1429 cm−1 and presence of primary (–NH2–) and secondary amides (–NH2–), aliphatic –C–N– stretching and confirmed –C–S– stretching in FTIR analysis confirms the breaking down of the azo bond. Conclusion This study showed that there is a platform for using the bacterial flora of fish gut that paves a prominent way in the degradation of Azo dye.

Micro-RNA mediated suppression of mRNA translation represents a major regulatory mode of post-transcriptional gene expression. Recently, the nucleoporin Nup358 was shown to interact with AGO protein, a key component of miRNA-induced silencing complex (miRISC), and facilitate the coupling of miRISC with target mRNA. Previous results suggested that SUMO-interacting motifs (SIMs) present on Nup358 mediate interaction with AGO protein. Here we show that Nup358-SIM has multiple interacting regions on AGO2, specifically within the N, PAZ and MID domains, with an affinity comparable to SIM-SUMO1 interaction. The study also unraveled specific residues involved in the interaction of AGO2 with miRNA-loading components such as Dicer and HSP90. Collectively, the results support the conclusion that multiple SIMs contribute to the association of Nup358 with AGO2.

Background: Diamond-Blackfan anemia is a rare inherited bone marrow failure disease. Typical findings include hypoplastic macrocytic anemia, congenital anomalies, and a predisposition to cancer. The molecular basis of the disease is heterozygous mutations of ribosomal proteins without a strict correlation between genotype and phenotype. Observation: We present 2 cases of Diamond-Blackfan anemia diagnosed during infancy with interesting clinical, molecular, and family characteristics. Conclusions: A thorough evaluation of all family members is imperative to identify possible 'silent carriers' who are those with no physical stigmata and minor or absent hematologic manifestations. New mutations could add in the map of the disease. © 2021 Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. All rights reserved.

Sclerotium rolfsii (a soil-borne plant pathogen) commonly causes root rot, stem rot, wilt, and foot rot on more than 500 plant species including almost all the agricultural and horticultural crops thus making it a devastating pathogen. Asexual mode of reproduction through sclerotia is quite common in this fungus as it can survive in environmental extremes. Botanicals and biopesticides projected as alternatives to the synthetic fungicides are also not the sustainable options for control of S. rolfsii due to its vast host range and high adaptability. Silver displays multiple modes of inhibitory action against microorganisms including fungi. With this background, the possibilities of using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as bionanofungicides were explored to control S. rolfsii attack. The AgNPs demonstrated their ability in protecting wheat plant growth in a better way when tested in vitro and in vivo. During in vitro plate studies, the effect of varying AgNPs concentrations on fungal mycelial growth was evaluated. Surprisingly, the fungi could not grow at all when subjected to 100 ppm AgNPs concentration. The sclerotia germination was also completely inhibited at 100 ppm AgNPs in in vitro as well as in vivo conditions, but the wheat plants showed certain toxic effects in roots at this concentration. Overall, 50 ppm concentration was found to have the best effect in terms of pathogen control as well as plant growth without causing any phytotoxicity. The present study results may open a new avenue to use the AgNPs as effective bionanofungicide for controlling S. rolfsii and promoting wheat productivity. Impending difficulties may encompass stability improvement, scaled up production, phytotoxicity studies, and their possible applications in several crops and multilocational field trials. In this chapter, we present an overview of the evolving role of AgNPs as nanofungicides in controlling the devastating S. rolfsii, possible mechanisms, and their potential effectiveness for field applications.

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are morphologically, physiologically, and phylogenetically diverse group (ecophysiological group) of microorganisms that are characterized by the movement along geomagnetic field lines in a process called magnetotaxis. MTB has been known to inhabit aquatic sediments (marine, estuarine, and freshwater), habitats, and rarely in the soil where vertical chemical concentration gradient exists. The cellular magnetism is usually seen due to lipid bound intracellular magnetic nanoparticles produced in MTB termed as magnetosomes. Magnetosome biosynthesis is a complex process that involves three main steps (i) invagination of cytoplasmic membrane, (ii) uptake of iron, and (iii) nucleation and maturation of magnetite crystals. Magnetosomes have a narrow size distribution when they are grown under optimal conditions and are considered to have several advantages to use for biomedical applications compared to synthetic nanoparticles. Experimental studies were conducted to compare magnetosome and synthetic magnetic nanoparticle acoustic properties, heat effects, physicochemical properties, magnetic properties, and cytotoxicity. The magnetosome’s high heating efficiency made it an effective alternative for the development of magnetic hyperthermia therapy. Another benefit of bacterial magnetosomes is their high purity levels. The biologically controlled mineralization was supposed to ensure high purity and perfect magnetosome crystal lattice, whereas the synthetic nanoparticles synthesized by the method of coprecipitation are often impure and have structural defects. In this review, we are focusing on the potential applications of bacterial magnetic nanoparticles in green nanotechnology.

Pseudomonas species or pseudomonads are known for their metabolic and ubiquitous diversity which enables them to survive in extreme conditions such as in marine and terrestrial environments as well as in association with flora and fauna. The sequenced genomes of many strains of Pseudomonas spp. show their vast repertoire of biotechnological applicability potential with respect to their genetic makeup and also exhibit industrially important applications due to physicochemical tolerances to extreme conditions (such as temperature, pH, and toxic chemicals and solvents). The best studied species include opportunistic human and plant pathogens, soil bacteria, and the plant growth-promoting pseudomonads. Pseudomonas species also are plant-commensals known for exhibiting effective antimicrobial activities and enabling plants to retrieve key nutrients. Hence, studying Pseudomonas with respect to its various characteristics in response to plant interactions is a far more important subject to be studied for their effective applications. In this review, the Pseudomonads have been analyzed extensively for their genome; biomolecules produced and plant beneficial activities. Thus, the present work helps future endeavors for Pseudomonad research by streamlining the areas.

Thermostable glycoprotein amyloid bioemulsifier BE-AM1 was reported from Solibacillus silvestris AM1. S. silvestris could produce better BE-AM1 in 1% inoculum size and 18h inoculum age. The BE-AM1 production by S. silvestris AM1 has been seen to be unaffected by amending the production and growth medium (Zobel Marine medium) with Carbon and Nitrogen sources. The effects of 16 nutrient factors (from ZM medium) were analyzed statistically by one factor at a time, Plackett-Burman and Response surface methodologies. Among the nutritive factors, yeast extract and peptone were found to be significant, increasing the production quantity of BE-AM1. The time course of production of BE-AM1 was affected significantly by altering the release of the biomolecule from the surface of the bacterium. This will be the first study to analyse the effect of factors influencing the production of industrially important functional amyloid protein from bacterial source having potential in environmental remediation and microbial interaction.

BACKGROUND Diamond-Blackfan anemia is a rare inherited bone marrow failure disease. Typical findings include hypoplastic macrocytic anemia, congenital anomalies, and a predisposition to cancer. The molecular basis of the disease is heterozygous mutations of ribosomal proteins without a strict correlation between genotype and phenotype. OBSERVATION We present 2 cases of Diamond-Blackfan anemia diagnosed during infancy with interesting clinical, molecular, and family characteristics. CONCLUSIONS A thorough evaluation of all family members is imperative to identify possible 'silent carriers' who are those with no physical stigmata and minor or absent hematologic manifestations. New mutations could add in the map of the disease.

Dandruff is one of the most common clinically manifested and studied scalp disorders. It has been associated with both bacteria and fungi. Bacteria and fungi inhabiting the scalp are known to influence each other and manifestation of dandruff. Fungal and bacterial isolates from scalp epithelial flakes (dandruff) were identified by rDNA sequencing. Local oils were tested for fungal and bacterial inhibition, interaction and biofilm formation, cell–cell interactions were studied by auto aggregation and surface thermodynamics studies. The isolates Bacillus sp.C2b1 (MK036745) and Malassezia sp. C2y1 (MK036746) were inhibited by Mahabhrungraj oil. The fungal morphological switch was evident and dependent on nutrition. Cell aggregation studies suggested the interaction of bacteria with yeast (non-pathogenic) phase of the fungus. Bacterial and yeast cells were found to be compatible for biofilm formation. The fungal mycelial surfaces were found to be conducive for interaction with both bacterial cells and yeast forms. The results here indicate the significance of mycelial phase of scalp-isolated fungus in interaction with the bacterial surfaces and also with self-yeast phase surface. This is the first report of the interaction between scalp-isolated microorganisms with respect to their surface interaction capabilities. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1007/s12088-019-00794-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Microbial surfactants are a large number of amphipathic biomolecules with a myriad of biomolecule constituents from various microbial sources that have been studied for their surface tension reduction activities. With unique properties, their applications have been increased in different areas including environment, medicine, healthcare, agriculture and industries. The present review aims to study the biochemistry and biosynthesis of biosurfactants exhibiting varying biomolecular structures which are produced by different microbial sources. It also provides details on roles played by biosurfactants in nature as well as their potential applications in various sectors. Basic biomolecule content of all the biosurfactants studied showed presence of carbohydrates, aminoacids, lipids and fattyacids. The data presented here would help in designing, synthesis and application of tailor-made novel biosurfactants. This would pave a way for perspectives of research on biosurfactants to overcome the existing bottlenecks in this field.

A novel estuarine bacterial strain, Solibacillus silvestris AM1, produces an extracellular, thermostable and fibrous, glycoprotein bioemulsifier (BE-AM1). The amyloid nature of the bioemulsifier (BE-AM1) was confirmed by biophysical techniques (Congo red based polarization microscopy, ThioflavinS based fluorescent microscopy, fibrous arrangement in transmission electron microscopy and secondary structure measurement by FTIR and CD spectrum analysis). Cell-bound BE-AM1 production by S. silvestris AM1 during the mid-logarithmic phase of growth coincided with a decrease in cell surface hydrophobicity, and an increase in cell autoaggregation and biofilm formation. It was observed that the total interfacial interaction energy ([Formula: see text]) for the surface of the bioemulsifier producing S. silvestris AM1 and different derivatized surfaces of polystyrene (silanized and sulfonated) was found to support biofilm formation. This study has revealed that the BE-AM1, a bacterial bioemulsifier, is a functional amyloid and has a role in biofilm formation and cell surface modulation in S. silvestris AM1.

Fish processing waste water causes pollution and eutrophication of water bodies when released untreated. Use of bacteria capable of simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) as biofilms on carriers in a moving bed bioreactor (MBBR) is a popular approach but seldom used for fish processing waste water remediation. Here, we studied the variations in biofilm formation and application activities by isolates Lysinibacillus sp. HT13, Alcaligenes sp. HT15 and Proteus sp. HT37 previously reported by us. While HT13 and HT15 formed significantly higher biofilms in polystyrene microtitre plates than on carriers, HT37 exhibited highest on carriers. A consortium of the three selected bacteria grown as biofilm on MBBR carriers exhibited better remediation of ammonia (200-600 ppm and 50 mM) than the individual isolates on carriers. The mixed biofilm set on the carriers was used for nitrogenous waste removal from fish processing waste water in 2 and 20 L setups. The total nitrogen estimated by elemental analysis showed complete remediation from 250 ppm in both 2 and 20 L waste water systems within 48 h. The usual toxic nitrogenous components-ammonia, nitrite and nitrate were also remediated efficiently.

Isolates were obtained from intertidal zone site samples from all five western and one eastern coastal states of India and were screened. These ecophysiological groups of aerobic, mesophilic, heterotrophic, sporulating, and bioemulsifier-producing bacteria were from Planococcaceae and Bacillaceae. This is the first report of bioemulsifier production by Sporosarcina spp., Lysinibacillus spp., B. thuringiensis, and B. flexus. In this group, Solibacillus silvestris AM1 was found to produce the highest emulsification activity (62.5 %EI) and the sample that yielded it was used to isolate the ecophysiological group of non-bioemulsifier-producing, hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria (belonging to Chromatiales and Bacillales). These yielded hitherto unreported degrader, Rheinheimera sp. CO6 which was selected for the interaction studies (in a microcosm) with bioemulsifier-producing S. silvestris AM1. The gas chromatographic study of these microcosm experiments revealed increased degradation of benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) and the growth of Rheinheimera sp. CO6 in the presence of bioemulsifier produced by S. silvestris AM1. Enhancement of the growth of S. silvestris AM1 in the presence of Rheinheimera sp. CO6 was observed possibly due to reduced toxicity of BTX suggesting mutualistic association between the two. This study elucidates the presence and interaction between enhancers and degraders in a hydrocarbon-contaminated intertidal zone and contributes to the knowledge during application of the two in remediation processes.

We describe a new family of triply-periodic minimal surfaces with hexagonal symmetry, related to the quartz (qtz) and its dual (the qzd net). We provide a solution to the period problem and provide a parametrisation of these surfaces, that are not in the regular class, by the Weierstrass-Enneper formalism. We identified this analytical description of the surface by generating an area-minimising mesh interface from a pair of dual graphs (qtz & qzd) using the generalised Voronoi construction of De Campo, Hyde and colleagues, followed by numerical identification of the flat point structure. This mechanism is not restricted to the specific pair of dual graphs, and should be applicable to a broader set of possible dual graph topologies and their corresponding minimal surfaces, if existent., 34 pages, 11 figures

Three isolates viz. Lysinibacillus sp. HT13, Alcaligenes sp. HT15 and Proteus sp. HT37 isolated from fish processing effluent and having a C/N ratio of 2, removed 218, 169, and 400 µg cell−1 day−1 NH4+-N, respectively without subsequent build up of nitrite or nitrate. Ability of the selected isolates in removing NH4+-N, NO2−-N, and NO3−-N was checked in the presence of four commonly reported and tested effluent carbon sources viz. pyruvate, glycerol, methanol, and acetate. Further, when supplemented to fish processing wastewater containing 234 ppm total Kjeldahl's nitrogen, Lysinibacillus sp. HT13, Alcaligenes sp. HT15, and Proteus sp. HT37 could remediate 95.74, 86.17, and 76.6% nitrogen, respectively in 48 h. This is the first report of a Lysinibacillus sp. carrying out aerobically the process of simultaneous nitrification and denitrification. The results demonstrate the potential of the isolates for use in treatment of fish processing effluents and demonstrating the efficient removal of ammonia.

Solibacillus silvestris AM1 was the first strain from the genus to be reported for the production of a functional amyloid and its potential use as a surface active agent, a thermostable glycoprotein amyloid bioemulsifier BE-AM1 capable of influencing environment and biofilm formation. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene, molecular characterization studies on the basis of DNA-DNA hybridization and chemotaxonomic fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis showed that S. silvestris AM1 as a strain matches with the type strain S. silvestris HR3-23. But strain AM1 differs from the type strain HR3-23 in carbon substrate utilization studies along with amyloid bioemulsifier production ability with potential industrial and environmental applications. S. silvestris AM1 exhibited bioemulsifier production at wide range of factors like pH and NaCl concentrations, while temperature influenced the bioemulsifier production indirectly (since it affected the growth). Bioemulsifier production was observed even at oligotrophic conditions (0.5 mg ml-1 ) seen usually in its native environment. In this study, we have characterized the amyloid producing S. silvestris AM1 taxonomically and also analyzed 16S rDNA of 103 sequences of Solibacillus sp. available, which indicated the possibility of new species in this genus and can be studied for industrially and environmentally important biomolecules.

Two in-line monitoring probes were inserted into a 3.2 L batch cooling crystallizer to monitor the progression of a dextrose monohydrate crystallization and how it was influenced by process variables including impurities, seed size and initial dextrose concentration. The probes used were a K-patents refractometer and a Lasentec FBRM probe. These probes were applied to continuously monitor dextrose concentration in solution and crystal chord length distribution throughout the duration of the crystallization. The influence of process variables on crystallizer performance, as determined by final crystal yield and chord size, may not be intuitive and some unexpected results occurred. The continuous in-line measurement data proved very useful for interpreting how variations in the process variables influenced the crystallizer performance. Supersaturation is a key variable in the control of the crystallization process as it influences both nucleation and crystal growth. In-line monitoring of solution dextrose concentration can be applied to continuously evaluate supersaturation and this can then be applied to control supersaturation so as to achieve a desired crystallizer performance.

In manual grading, an expert person has to keep in mind each and every characteristic of fruit for grading. More time and cost is required for manual grading of fruits. Most of the existing systems work on individual parameters like color, shape, and size. Captured image and database image gives grading output by comparison. The proposed system is implemented for potato grading by combining different parameters like shape, size, percentage of deficiency and weight. The proposed system is real-time image processing. Potato image is properly captured by a camera and processed by image processing chamber. The system gives 1-D image parameter detection for grading of potatoes. Shape, size, percentage of deficiency and weight are calculated. Knowledge base fuzzy rules are designed. The system is automatic grading of potatoes, to overcome manual grading. The system reduces time and cost required for manual grading. The system gives the better result as compared with manual grading. By using computer vision and fuzzy logic, faster grading of potatoes is achieved.

The automotive electronics sector day by day increasing its scope in automotive systems. Vehicle safety & security is more important in automotive system. During the night time driving, glare effect occurs due to opposite vehicle headlamp luminance. So it causes to accident of vehicle. In the higher end vehicle there is auto rain sensor wiper but this feature is not available in low end vehicle because of its higher cost. Also there is no any authentication security system to low end vehicle which avoids the antitheft of vehicle incidents. Considering this drawback, the proposed system has been designed. The proposed system designed two electronic control units (ECU) which are linked up with controller area network (CAN). One ECU has biometric fingerprint security system for vehicle ignition system. Other ECU has auto mode wiper movement based on fuzzy logic algorithm. And it also has automatic headlamp system to remove the glare effect. So the proposed system removes the drawback of glare effect and distraction during driving with the low cost.

The popular reminders are based on electronic calendar in mobile phones. These reminders are purely time specific i.e. this will give notification only on at that particular time. Many times it is not confirmed that we will be present at the specific location for the work for which we have set the reminder. Instead it is beneficial if the notification or alarm triggers when we are actually present near or at that specific location. To remind modern people of something at a specific time and location, Smart Location Reminder is a boon. To serve the purpose, implementing an application for Android-based smartphones and tablets which is not only time based but also location based. The system uses free, public API service from Google Maps. Timely reminder reduces chances of missing the location of interest & task to be reminded can be performed on desired time and at desired location. Also Ease of search is achieved by finding nearby places of interest.

Lighting solution has a high impact on total energy consumption worldwide. Particularly 40% of total energy is consumed by indoor lights. For indoor lighting, traditionally fluorescent lamps and electronic ballasts were used. Manual approach often used for switching the lights and thereby leaving lights to remain ON even if not in use. Fluorescent light doesn't support dimming, so user needs to replace light source with different wattage to achieve different intensities. Also, they are energy inefficient. Electronic ballasts on the other hand supports dimming but are expensive. Thus, existing light system need to upgrade. Proposed system is an intelligent LED lighting control system based on fuzzy logic controller. In auto-mode, lights are switched with human presence and controls light intensity depending on available natural light. In manual mode, light intensity adjusted by using a Bluetooth enabled smartphone application. In addition, various lighting effects were added for users to create scene modes using smartphone. Energy consumption and sensor database are logged on a storage device. Reduction in energy consumption by lights and associated control system is achieved without compromising in user's vision comfort.

Frauds related to the ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) are increasing day by day which is a serious issue. ATM security is used to provide protection against these frauds. Though security is provided for ATM machine, cases of robberies are increasing. Previous technologies provide security within machines for secure transaction, but machine is not neatly protected. The ATM machines are not safe since security provided traditionally were either by using RFID reader or by using security guard outside the ATM. This security is not sufficient because RFID card can be stolen and can be misused for robbery as well as watchman can be blackmailed by the thief. So there is a need to propose new technology which can overcome this problem. This paper proposes a system which aims to design real-time monitoring and controlling system. The system is implemented using Raspberry Pi and fingerprint module which make the system more secure, cost effective and stand alone. For controlling purpose, Embedded Web Server (EWS) is designed using Raspberry Pi which serves web page on which video footage of ATM center is seen and controlled. So the proposed system removes the drawback of manual controlling camera module and door also this system is stand alone and cost effective.