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• Development of red blood cells from hematopoietic stem cells is a complex, dynamic, and hierarchical process. • Multiple immunophenotypic strategies exist for analysis of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and erythroid cells. • Flow cytometry and single-cell RNA-sequencing studies have indicated heterogeneity within populations. • HSPCs exhibit a continuum of lineage priming, producing unipotent progenitors. • Systematic analysis is required to establish a standard set of erythroid markers. Erythropoiesis, the development of erythrocytes from hematopoietic stem cells, occurs through four phases: erythroid progenitor (EP) development, early erythropoiesis, terminal erythroid differentiation (TED), and maturation. According to the classical model that is based on immunophenotypic profiles of cell populations, each of these phases comprises multiple differentiation states that arise in a hierarchical manner. After segregation of lymphoid potential, erythroid priming begins during progenitor development and progresses through progenitor cell types that have multilineage potential. Complete separation of the erythroid lineage is achieved during early erythropoiesis with the formation of unipotent EPs: burst-forming unit-erythroid and colony-forming unit-erythroid. These erythroid-committed progenitors undergo TED and maturation, which involves expulsion of the nucleus and remodeling to form functional biconcave, hemoglobin-filled erythrocytes. In the last decade or so, many studies employing advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) as well as the conventional methods, including colony-forming cell assays and immunophenotyping, have revealed heterogeneity within the stem, progenitor, and erythroblast stages, and uncovered alternate paths for segregation of erythroid lineage potential. In this review, we provide an in-depth account of immunophenotypic profiles of all cell types within erythropoiesis, highlight studies that demonstrate heterogeneous erythroid stages, and describe deviations to the classical model of erythropoiesis. Overall, although scRNA-seq approaches have provided new insights, flow cytometry remains relevant and is the primary method for validation of novel immunophenotypes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algal polysaccharides, harnessed for their catalytic potential, embody a compelling narrative in sustainable chemistry. This review explores the complex domains of algal carbohydrate-based catalysis, revealing its diverse trajectory. Starting with algal polysaccharide synthesis and characterization methods as catalysts, the investigation includes sophisticated techniques like NMR spectroscopy that provide deep insights into the structural variety of these materials. Algal polysaccharides undergo various preparation and modification techniques to enhance their catalytic activity such as immobilization. Homogeneous catalysis, revealing its significance in practical applications like crafting organic compounds and facilitating chemical transformations. Recent studies showcase how algal-derived catalysts prove to be remarkably versatile, showcasing their ability to customise reactions for specific substances. Heterogeneous catalysis, it highlights the significance of immobilization techniques, playing a central role in ensuring stability and the ability to reuse catalysts. The practical applications of heterogeneous algal catalysts in converting biomass and breaking down contaminants, supported by real-life case studies, emphasize their effectiveness. In sustainable chemistry, algal polysaccharides emerge as compelling catalysts, offering a unique intersection of eco-friendliness, structural diversity, and versatile catalytic properties. Tackling challenges such as dealing with complex structural variations, ensuring the stability of the catalyst, and addressing economic considerations calls for out-of-the-box and inventive solutions. Embracing the circular economy mindset not only assures sustainable catalyst design but also promotes efficient recycling practices. The use of algal carbohydrates in catalysis stands out as a source of optimism, paving the way for a future where chemistry aligns seamlessly with nature, guiding us toward a sustainable, eco-friendly, and thriving tomorrow. This review encapsulates—structural insights, catalytic applications, challenges, and future perspectives—invoking a call for collective commitment to catalyze a sustainable scientific revolution. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We introduce a new tool, called recurrent dictionary learning, whose core idea is to rely on a linear state-space model whose state transition and observation matrices are sequentially inferred, jointly with the resolution of the inherent probabilistic filtering problem, using an expectation-minimization approach. • Our numerical results on financial time series prediction from stock market data, show that our proposed method excels over state-of-the-art stock analysis models. • The advantages of our method are (i) the available uncertainty quantification on the estimates, (ii) the ease for dealing with multivariate input and output vectors, (iii) the automatic nature of the joint estimation problem (model parameters and sequence of the states). In this work, we introduce a new modeling and inferential tool for dynamical processing of time series. The approach is called recurrent dictionary learning (RDL). The proposed model reads as a linear Gaussian Markovian state-space model involving two linear operators, the state evolution and the observation matrices, that we assumed to be unknown. These two unknown operators (that can be seen interpreted as dictionaries) and the sequence of hidden states are jointly learnt via an expectation–maximization algorithm. The RDL model gathers several advantages, namely online processing, probabilistic inference, and a high model expressiveness which is usually typical of neural networks. RDL is particularly well suited for stock forecasting. Its performance is illustrated on two problems: next day forecasting (regression problem) and next day trading (classification problem), given past stock market observations. Experimental results show that our proposed method excels over state-of-the-art stock analysis models such as CNN-TA, MFNN, and LSTM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the plant macroremains from the site of Vadnagar, an important centre of Buddhist learning in western India spanned between first century BCE and fourth century CE. The cultural relics and AMS dates of the recovered carbonized seeds from the cultural horizon also confirm the archaeological context. The study indicate that the likely staples were cereals (Oryza sativa , Hordeum vulgare , Triticum aestivum), leguminous crops (Vigna unguiculata, Vigna radiata, Vigna mungo, and Macrotyloma uniflorum), and oil and fibre-yielding (Linum usitatissimum and Gossypium sp.) crops. In addition, there is an evidence that fruits such as Tamarindus indica and Ziziphus sp. may have been consumed by the settlers. Few weeds and wild taxa (Paspalum scrobiculatum , Vicia sp., and Ipomoea sp.), which turned up as an admixture with the above economically important seeds/grains have also been encountered. Abundance of Oryza sativa (rice) grains and spikelet bases indicate crop-processing at the site and played significant role in the subsistence economy. Moreover, the overall assemblage of summer and winter crops suggests the prevalence of multi-cropping system attributed to conducive environmental conditions during ~100 BCE–400 CE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high number industrial hearths, furnaces, and kilns were excavated from an Indus archaeological site 4MSR (western Rajasthan, India) on the dry bed of Ghaggar-Hakra (erstwhile Saraswati) river channel near India-Pakistan international border, providing numerous artifacts of Indus metallurgical activity (jewellery items made of Copper (Cu), Gold (Au) and Silver (Ag), anvil, fishhook, arrowhead, spearhead, moulds, slag etc.). Array of inter-connected hearths, vats, range of stone weights and beads made of semi-precious stones (steatite, terracotta, paste) further suggest the site was being used as a metal-craft factory. Nine 14C ages (seven AMS and two conventional) from cultural layers provided site occupational history spanning from the early Harappan phase to the termination of the mature phase. Maximum number of industrial hearths and furnaces were found during the mature phase (2341 ± 30 to 1691 ± 100 BCE). Highly enriched magnetic susceptibilities (χ lf : 114 ± 61.2 × 10−8m3kg−1) in the industrial hearths indicate intense burning activities at these metallurgical factory. Similar enrichments were seen in hearth-sediments for Sulfur (S), Calcium (Ca), Strontium (Sr) and Phosphorous (P) contents. Transition elements viz. Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn) and Lead (Pb) were significantly enriched in these hearths possibly as major leftovers of the Harappan metallurgical activities. High S contents found in industrial hearths could be due to usage of Sulfur rich material used for metal-works and usage of gypsum for polishing metal ware and floors. Excesses of Calcium (Ca) and Strontium (Sr) could be due to enhanced usage of river-shells used in ornaments and bead making, while elevated Phosphorous (P) contents might be due to presence of charred bones of cattle, tortoise and fish. • Array of industrial hearths found in archaeological excavation of the western Rajasthan. • Majority of hearths belonged to the Mature phase of Indus culture ~2600 to ~1800 BCE. • Mature phase hearths and sediments were characterized by enriched magnetic susceptibility (χlf), Cu, Au, Ag, Pt, Pb, As and S. • Hearths of Early phase (~2900–~2600 BCE) display no metal enrichments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times cost-effective advanced materials with dual applications in photocatalytic water treatment and electrochemical sensing have been explored and developed. Herein we report facile solution combustion synthesis of ZnO/Fe 2 O 3 (ZF) type-II heterojunction for electrochemical sensing of dopamine and visible assisted photocatalytic reduction of carcinogenic Cr(VI) into Cr(III). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were used to evaluate the compatibility of the electrodes for DA sensing. Furthermore, DPV curves revealed that ZF2 (ZnO: Fe 2 O 3 - 3:0.5) modified GCEs possessed 0.27 μM and 0.7 μM of LOD and LOQ with good linear range from 3 μM to 30 μM. Overall, reproducibility and interference studies confirm the efficient use of material for DA sensing. The junction ZF2 shows best performance with 88% Cr(VI) photo-reduction under visible light in 90 min and 100% reduction with tartaric acid as sacrificial agent (utilizing holes) in just 45 min. The effect of sacrificial agents and scavengers suggest the photogenerated electrons were major active species followed by ●O 2 −. The CB edges have enough potential for rapid reduction of hexavalent chromium under visible light and solar light. The photoluminescence and electrochemical impedance suggest lowered recombination, high charge separation and charge transfer capacity in the heterojunction. The transfer of electrons from conduction band of Fe 2 O 3 to that of ZnO having high enough negative potential to reduce Cr(VI), thus utilizing the CB potential of wide band gap ZnO for rapid visible photocatalysis. In addition shortcomings as low conductivity Fe 2 O 3 and high band gap of ZnO are both minimized in the junction. This study confirmed that popular semiconductors as ZnO and Fe 2 O 3 have enough potential in dual role as electrochemical sensors and visible photocatalysts with best performance by optimizing the conditions and ratios. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraspinal degenerative cysts in the cervical region are rare disorders that may cause myelopathy or radiculopathy. Most of the intraspinal degenerative cysts reported are extradural cysts. This case report includes the neuroimaging, intraoperative, pathologic, and postoperative findings obtained in a patient with a degenerative intradural cyst at the craniovertebral (CV) junction. We report a patient presenting with progressive spastic quadriparesis resulting from compressive myelopathy due to intradural degenerative cyst at the CV junction. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging showed the intradural cyst at the cervicomedullary junction with degenerative changes causing myelopathy. We performed decompression of the CV junction, and histopathology of the cyst revealed degenerative cyst. Postoperatively the symptoms were relieved with no apparent complication. Intraspinal degenerative cysts causing compressive myelopathy are rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of intradural degenerative cyst at the CV junction. In this case report, we demonstrated the clinical, imaging, intraoperative, and pathologic features of a degenerative intraspinal cyst at the CV junction that was intradural in location. Compression of the spinal cord resulted in a gradually progressive myelopathy that showed remarkable improvement immediately after decompression by cystectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Investigate predictors of falls and fractures leading to hospitalization in a large cohort of people with dementia. Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting and Participants People with diagnosed dementia between January 2007 and March 2013, aged >65 years, were assembled using data from the Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre Case Register, from 4 boroughs in London serving a population of 1.3 million people. Measures Falls and/or fractures leading to hospitalization were ascertained from linked national records. Demographic data, cognitive test scores, medications, and symptom and functioning scores from Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS65+) were modeled in multivariate survival analyses to identify predictors of falls and fractures. Results Of 8036 people with dementia (63.9% female), 2500 (31.1%, incidence rate 125.5 per 1000 person-years) had a fall during a mean follow-up of 2.5 years and 1437 (17.7%, incidence rate 65.5 per 1000 person-years) had a fracture. In multivariable models, significant predictors of falls were increased age, female gender, physical health problems, previous fall or fracture, vascular dementia vs Alzheimer's disease, higher neighborhood deprivation, noncohabiting status, and problems with living conditions. Ethnic minority status was protective of falls (eg, Caribbean/Asian ethnicity). Medications (including psychotropic and antipsychotics), neuropsychiatric symptoms, cognitive (Mini-Mental State Examination scores), or functional problems did not predict hospitalized falls. Predictors of fractures were similar to those predicting falls. Implications Over an average of 2.5 years, a third of people with dementia had a fall leading to hospitalization, necessitating action in clinical practice. Clinicians should consider that besides established demographic and physical health–related factors, the risk of hospitalization due to a fall or fractures in dementia is largely determined by environmental and socioeconomic factors. Interestingly, our data suggest that neuropsychiatric symptoms, cognitive status, functioning, or pharmacotherapy were not associated with falls/fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present archaeobotanical data based on plant macroremains obtained from three archaeological sites in the Ganga Plain. The paper provides insight into a range of taxa exploited by early inhabitants of different cultural occupations spanning from about beginning of 3rd millennium BC to 2nd century BC and also for the change in plant use over time. The evidence denotes a highly developed state of arable agriculture, which requires foresightedness and planning. The principal cultivated cereals were Oryza sativa , Hordeum vulgare , Triticum aestivum/durum , Triticum sphaerococcum followed by few African ( Eleusine coracana , Sorghum bicolor ) and indigenous ( Paspalum scrobiculatum , Panicum sp.) millets. While there is continuity in the agricultural pattern in time and space however, certain changes do seem in diversification of plant use during Iron Age. The record of Sesamum indicum , Brassica juncea , Carthamus tinctorius , Linum usitatissimum , Gossypium arboreum / herbaceum and Cannabis sativa emphasize the importance of oeliferous crops and textile production. Finds of Vitis vinifera , Vigna unguiculata , Luffa cylindrica , Allium cepa , Nigella sativa , Murraya koenighii and Ziziphus mauritiana along with Phoenix sp., Terminalia chebula , Terminalia bellerica , Emblica officinalis , and Crataeva sp., suggest horticultural practices and highly advanced medicinal system was in vogue during 1st millennium BC. Among the weeds and wild taxa, some are from cultivated field, moist places, ditches and some from fallow land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paratuberculosis (ParaTB) in ruminants, commonly known as Johne's disease (JD)is caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP). Characteristic hallmark of JD is chronic inflammation of intestines. Similar infection of MAP in human population is called Crohn's disease (CD). In sub-tropical countries like India, domestic buffaloes are important source of milk and meat and vital for thenutritional security of human beings. Diarrhoea leading to weight loss and weakness invariably leads to reduced productivity, therefore huge financial losses to the livestock farmers. Evaluation of immuno-biochemical alterations and their management through appropriate therapeutic interventions would aid in preventing production losses caused by diarrhoea following MAP infection.Most of the studies were performed to understand immune-biochemical alterations in serum samples of cattle following experimental infections. But studies are limited in clinical cases of buffaloes suffering from diarrhoea and were suspected for MAP infection.We categorized diarrhoeic buffaloes brought at Veterinary Clinical Complex of Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, for therapeutic intervention; As MAP negatives / suspected, low positive, positive and strong positive based on indigenous ELISA kit results. We further compared immuno hemato-biochemical alterations in MAP negative/suspected low positive, positive and strong positive animals.Our major findings were; significant differences observed in creatinine, globulin, total leucocytic, neutrophils and in lymphocytes numbers. Decreasing trend in leucocytes was seen from suspected to strong positive animals, which indicated the progression of disease towards chronic paratuberculosis. However, differences were not observed in the Th1 cytokine levels. • ELISA based sorting of spontaneous naturally infected diarrhoeic buffaloes as MAP negative, suspected, low, strong positive. • Plasma creatinine and globulin fraction were significantly increased in MAP strong positive diarrheic buffaloes. • Significantly reduced Total leucocyte count (TLC) in strong positive animals. • Progressive decline of TLC, neutrophils and lymphocytes from suspected to strong positive (advancement towards chronicity). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid metabolism plays a fundamental role during influenza virus replication, although key regulators of lipid-dependent trafficking and virus production remain inadequately defined. This report demonstrates that infection by influenza virus stimulates phospholipase D (PLD) activity and that PLD co-localizes with influenza during infection. Both chemical inhibition and RNA interference of PLD delayed viral entry and reduced viral titers in vitro. Although there may be contributions by both major isoenzymes, the effects on viral infectivity appear to be more dependent on the PLD2 isoenzyme. In vivo, PLD2 inhibition reduced virus titer and correlated with significant increases in transcription of innate antiviral effectors. The reduction in viral titer downstream of PLD2 inhibition was dependent on Rig-I (retinoic acid-inducible gene-1), IRF3, and MxA (myxovirus resistance gene A) but not IRF7. Inhibition of PLD2 accelerated the accumulation of MxA in foci as early as 30 min postinfection. Together these data suggest that PLD facilitates the rapid endocytosis of influenza virus, permitting viral escape from innate immune detection and effectors that are capable of limiting lethal infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many infections, especially those that are chronic such as Herpes Simplex Virus-1 (HSV-1), the outcome may be influenced by the activity of one or more types of regulatory T cells (Tregs). Some infections can cause Treg expansion, but how viruses might promote preferential Treg expansion is has been unclear. In this report, we demonstrate a possible mechanism by which HSV (Herpes Simplex virus-1) infection could act to signal and expands the Treg population. We show that CD4 + FoxP3 + Tregs up- regulate HVEM (herpes virus entry mediator), which is a binding site for major viral glycoprotein HSVgD, following HSV infection, which is a binding site for major viral glycoprotein HSVgD. Recombinant HSVgD enhanced the proliferation of CD4 + FoxP3 + Tregs cells in-vitro. Furthermore, compared to wild type (WT), HVEM deficient mice (HVEM−/−) generated a weaker Treg responses represented by significantly diminished ratios of CD4 + FoxP3 + /CD4 + FoxP3 - cells along with diminished proportions of FoxP3 + Tregscells co-expressing Treg activation markers and a reduced MFI of FoxP3 expression on CD4 + T cells. Consistent with defective Treg responses, HVEM−/− animals were more susceptible to HSV-1 induced ocular immunopathology, with more severe lesions in HVEM−/− animals. Our results indicate that HVEM regulates Treg responses, and its modulation could represent a useful approach to control HSV induced corneal immunopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case of intraoperative cyanosis in a patient with a common atrioventricular canal palliated with a pulmonary artery (PA) band is presented. The patient's physiology was consistent with cyanosis due to inadequate pulmonary blood flow, and responded quickly to typical interventions used for a hypercyanotic episode in a patient with unrepaired Tetralogy of Fallot. Differences and similarities in the physiology of PA banding compared with Tetralogy of Fallot are presented, including a rationale for treatment options for hemodynamic decompensation occurring in the setting of anesthesia and surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, western Himalaya, India is a popular tourist destination, selected for the comprehensive study on effects of heavy metals from vehicular exhaust which remain air borne for a long time, on the epiphytic moss Brachythecium populeum Hedw. (B.S.G.). Moss bags were transplanted in residential, heavy and low vehicular movement areas ascertain comparable levels of accumulation. The heavy metals Fe, Zn, Pb, Cu, Ni, Cr, Mn and related physiological parameters, viz., total chlorophyll, sugar, protein, catalase and peroxidase enzyme activities were analyzed. The impact of heavy metal accumulation on B. populeum shows that it may be utilized as a cost effective indicator/monitor for air quality assessment of any region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, a nonlinear mathematical model is proposed and analyzed to study the survival of a resource-dependent population. It is assumed that this population and its resource are affected simultaneously by a toxicant (pollutant) emitted into the environment from external sources as well as formed by precursors of this population. It is shown that as the cumulative rates of emission and formation of the toxicant into the environment increase, the densities of population and its resource settle down to lower equilibria than their initial carrying capacities, and their magnitudes decrease as rates of emission and formation of the toxicant increase. On comparing different cases, it is noted that when population is not affected directly by the toxicant but only its resource is affected, the possibility of its survival is greater than the case when both are affected simultaneously. But for large emission rate of toxicant, the affected resource may be driven to extinction under certain conditions and the population which wholly depends on it may not survive for long even if it is not affected directly by the toxicant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Manuscript discusses the incidence of MAP infection in diarrhoeic bovines, a question which has never been evaluated. • Sero-prevalence of JD was very high in diarrhoeic buffaloes and cattle from Haryana state of India. • Buffaloes positive for MAP infection had reduced total leukocyte count and lymphocytes indicating chronic nature of disease. • Buffalo PBMCs express TIM3. • Elucidating relative expression of TIM3 on JD positive and negative PBMCs will provide a clue on immune exhaustion in JD. Murrah buffaloes, best breed for milk production are native of Haryana state. They contributes significantly to the farmer's income, livelihood and food (milk and meat) security, in the semi-tropical regions of North India. Johne's disease though endemic in the domestic livestock of the country, but reports are not available in the buffaloes suffering from morbidity due to progressive weakness and diarrhoea. We estimated the status of JD in diarrhoeic buffaloes and cattle reporting at Veterinary Clinical Complex of Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India, using conventional, serological and PCR assays.141 buffaloes suffering from chronic diarrhoea were screened to estimate sero-prevalence of MAP and 50.0 % young and 53.52 % adult animals were positive. Of 14 cattle screened, none of the young and 66.6 % adult cows were positive. In buffaloes, 66.1 and 6.77 %, fecal samples were positive in microscopy and IS 900 PCR, respectively. Sero-prevalence of JD was very high in diarrhoeic buffaloes and cattle from Haryana state of India.Buffaloes positive for Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) infection had reduced total leukocyte count and lymphocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the synthesis of novel silver-doped Prussian blue nanoscale coordination polymers (SPB NCPs), for dual modality photothermal ablation and oxidative toxicity in bacterial cells. The comparison of SPB NCPs (having Fe-CN-Ag bonds) with the conventionally used Prussian blue nanoscale coordination polymers (PB NCPs, having Fe-CN-Fe bonds) was investigated in terms of their physical and therapeutic properties. It was observed that both PB and SPB NCPs have similar physical dimensions, crystalline phase and optical properties. Both these NCPs showed robust photothermal effect by heat generation (hyperthermia) upon exposure to red laser light. However, among the two, only SPB NCP showed oxidase-like activity by generating H 2 O 2 in aqueous medium, presumably due to its silver content. In vitro antibacterial studies revealed that the SPB NCPs, but not PB NCPs, show inherent toxicity towards bacteria with an IC 50 value close to 2.5 μg/ml. It can be inferred that this toxicity is oxidative in nature, as a result of the oxidase-like behaviour shown by SPB NCPs. Furthermore, light activation resulted in substantial additional antibacterial effect (photothermal toxicity) in bacterial cells treated with SPB NCPs. In comparison, marginal additional photothermal toxicity was observed in PB NCP-treated bacteria. Thus, we conclude that the combination of dual modality oxidative and photothermal toxicities demonstrated by SPB NCPs, but not by control PB NCPs, makes the former promising antibacterial agents at low dosages. Unlabelled Image • Novel silver-doped Prussian blue nanoscale coordination polymers (SPB NCPs) have been synthesized. • Both SPB NCPs and control Prussian blue (PB) NCPs showed similar size, shape, crystalline and optical properties. • Both SPB and PB NCPs showed robust photothermal effect by heat generation (hyperthermia) upon exposure to red laser light • Only SPB NCP showed oxidase-like activity by generating H 2 O 2 in aqueous medium. • The SPB NCPs showed dual modality photothermal ablation and oxidative toxicities in bacterial cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging concern about the emergence of antimicrobial resistance has limited the use of antibiotics in calves. Hence, there is a need to find suitable alternatives to antibiotics to manage gastrointestinal infections in neonatal calves. The objective of the present study was to develop a probiotic of calf-origin for its potential application in calf nutrition. Accordingly, 69 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were isolated from faeces of newborn calves, out of which 10 strains were short-listed for further in vitro testing based on the aggregation time and cell surface hydrophobicity. The results of acid-, bile- and phenol-tolerance tests indicated that out of the ten strains, the isolate CPN60 had better resistance to these adverse conditions likely to be encountered in the gastrointestinal tract. The isolate also showed an optimal ability to produce biofilm. Further assessments reiterated its superiority in terms of co-aggregation and antagonistic activity against pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli. Subsequently, the isolate was identified through 16S rRNA sequencing and sequence homology and designated as Ligilactobacillus salivarius CPN60. The candidate probiotic was evaluated in vivo using 48 male (5 weeks old) Wistar rats, divided into two equal groups viz. control (CON) and probiotic (PRO). During the 4-weeks feeding trial, the PRO group rats were gavaged with one mL culture of L. salivarius CPN60 equivalent to 108 CFU/rat. The in vivo trial results indicated better nutrient utilization efficiency and growth performance (p < 0.001) of the PRO group of rats. The probiotic supplementation improved the faecal concentration of lactate (p < 0.001) and individual as well as total short-chain fatty acids (p < 0.001) production. The cell-mediated immune response, assessed as a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to phytohaemagglutinin-P, was improved (p < 0.001) in PRO compared to the CON rats. It is concluded that the calf-origin probiotic L. salivarius CPN60, in addition to possessing all the in vitro functional attributes of a candidate probiotic, also has desirable potential for its future use in young calves to promote gut health and immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, a non-linear mathematical model is proposed and analyzed to study the phenomenon of a chemical defense mechanism involving two competing species, where each species produces a toxicant affecting the other. It is shown that if the emission rate coefficient of toxicant, produced by one species increases, the equilibrium density of the other species decreases and its magnitude is lower than its original carrying capacity. It is found that the usual principle of competitive exclusion (coexistence) in the absence of toxicant may change in the case under consideration. It is also observed that increases in the values of production rates of toxicants by the competing species and depletion rates of environmental toxicants due to its assimilation by the species has a destabilizing effect, and decrease in the washout rates of environmental toxicants has a destabilizing effect on the dynamics of the system. In the case of allelopathy, where only one species produces a toxicant affecting the other species, it is shown that the affected species is driven to extinction for large production rate of this toxicant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fossil fuels are limited in nature and are not environmentally friendly, thus using them to meet the rising energy needs is insufficient. Another major cause of global warming, which is recognized as one of the greatest hazards to the world, is fossil fuels. Finding alternative energy sources that can counteract the drawbacks of fossil fuels is urgently needed. Due to its low environmental impact and a variety of possible sustainable production methods, biohydrogen is one such alternative energy source that has attracted enormous interest and demand. Due to their wide range of environments, rapid growth, and polyphyletic nature, algae-based biological hydrogen production techniques are gaining significant interest. Nevertheless, the main obstacles to the sustainable and commercial application of the algal biohydrogen generation process are low yield, constrained light penetration, low biomass concentration, and expensive downstream processes. Increased attention to algal diversity may help to overcome the limitation of low algal biomass production and yield while enhancing penetration ability. Additionally, the usage of nanomaterials may speed up the process by altering the entire process' response mechanism. Therefore, this review explores algal diversity as one of the strategies of algal biohydrogen production along with elaboration of the impacts of nanomaterials in different pathways of biohydrogen production, namely dark fermentation, photo-fermentation, direct and indirect biophotolysis. Advances in biohydrogen production employing diversified groups of algae with the application of nanomaterials have been extensively summarized with current update mechanisms and existing roadblocks. As a result, the utilization of nanomaterials as a novel and sustainable catalyst has also been thoroughly described for prospective scaling up of algal biohydrogen production. • Recent advances in algal biohydrogen production have been reviewed. • Impact of algal biodiversity is evaluated and explored for biohydrogen improvement. • Nanomaterials have been explored for functional stability of hydrogen producing enzymes. • Emphasis is targeted on nanomaterials' application in microbial metabolism alteration. • Limitations and recommendations are provided for practical viability and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate predictors of falls/fractures leading to hospitalisation in people with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders.Methods: A historical cohort of people with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (ICD F20-29) from 01/2006-12/2012 was assembled using data from the South London and Maudsley NHS Biomedical Research Centre Case Register. Falls/fractures were ascertained from a linkage to national hospitalisation data. Separate multivariate Cox regression analyses were employed to identify predictors of falls and fractures.Results: Of 11,567 people with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (mean age 42.6 years, 43% female), 579 (incidence rate 12.79 per 1000 person-years) and 528 (11.65 per 1000 person-years) had at least one reported hospital admission due to a fall or fracture respectively and 822 patients had at least either a recorded fall or a fracture during this period (i.e. 7.1% of sample). Overall, 6.69 and 10.74 years of inpatient hospital stay per 1000-person years of follow-up occurred due to a fall and fracture respectively. 14(0.12%) and 28(0.24%) died due to a fall and fracture respectively. In Multivariable analysis, increasing age, white ethnicity, analgesics, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diseases of the genitourinary system, visual disturbance and syncope were significant risk factor for both falls and fractures. A previous fracture (HR 2.05, 95% CI 1.53-2.73) and osteoporosis (HR 6.79, 95% CI 4.71-9.78) were strong risk factors for consequent fractures.Conclusion: Comorbid physical health conditions and analgesic medication prescription were associated with higher risk of falls and fractures. Osteoporosis and previous fracture were strong predictors for subsequent fractures. Interventions targeting bone health and falls/fractures need to be developed and evaluated in these populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At a noncytotoxic concentration, emetine was found to inhibit replication of DNA viruses [buffalopoxvirus (BPXV) and bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1)] as well as RNA viruses [peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) and Newcastle disease virus (NDV)]. Using the time-of-addition and virus step-specific assays, we showed that emetine treatment resulted in reduced synthesis of viral RNA (PPRV and NDV) and DNA (BPXV and BHV-1) as well as inhibiting viral entry (NDV and BHV-1). In addition, emetine treatment also resulted in decreased synthesis of viral proteins. In a cell free endogenous viral polymerase assay, emetine was found to significantly inhibit replication of NDV, but not BPXV genome, suggesting that besides directly inhibiting specific viral polymerases, emetine may also target other factors essentially required for efficient replication of the viral genome. Moreover, emetine was found to significantly inhibit BPXV-induced pock lesions on chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) along with associated mortality of embryonated chicken eggs. At a lethal dose 50 (LD 50 ) of 126.49 ng/egg and at an effective concentration 50 (EC 50 ) of 3.03 ng/egg, the therapeutic index of the emetine against BPXV was determined to be 41.74. Emetine was also found to significantly delay NDV-induced mortality in chicken embryos associated with reduced viral titers. Further, emetine-resistant mutants were not observed upon long-term (P = 25) sequential passage of BPXV and NDV in cell culture. Collectively, we have extended the effective antiviral activity of emetine against diverse groups of DNA and RNA viruses and propose that emetine could provide significant therapeutic value against some of these viruses without inducing an antiviral drug-resistant phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synthesis of TiO 2 bionanocomposite from water hyacinth (WH) leaves extract. • Antibacterial activity of TiO 2 bionanocomposite against S. marcescens ABHI001. • Superior antibacterial activity of TiO 2 bionanocomposite compared to TiO 2 NPs. • Low-cost green synthesis strategy for practical applications of bionanocomposite. The present work is targeted towards the green synthesis of low cost, efficient and potential nanoparticles for effective application. In this approach, waste leafs of water hyacinth (WH) [ Eichhornia crassipes ] , a types of aquatic weed has been used to synthesize TiO 2 bionanocomposite under ambient conditions. Newly synthesized TiO 2 bionanocomposite has been characterized via different techniques e.g. X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). Further, antibacterial efficiency of TiO 2 bionaocomposite has been tested against the commonly known toilet bacteria Serratia marcescens which is a lab isolated strain having specification ABHI001. It is found that the prepared TiO 2 bionanocomposite when used at 150 μg/mL concentration exhibited ∼3.0 cm diameter of inhibition zone against the toilet bacteria which is superior to commercial TiO 2 NPs and WH leaf extract. The current study may have potential applications to synthesize bionanocomposites and their utility in healthcare industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we evaluated the antiviral efficacy of the silver nanoparticles (SNPs) against Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV), a prototype Morbillivirus. The leaf extract of the Argemone maxicana was used as a reducing agent for biological synthesis of the SNPs from silver nitrate. The SNPs were characterized using UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The TEM analysis revealed particle size of 5-30 nm and the XRD analysis revealed their characteristic silver structure. The treatment of Vero cells with the SNPs at a noncytotoxic concentration significantly inhibited PPRV replication in vitro. The time-course and virus step-specific assays showed that the SNPs impair PPRV replication at the level of virus entry. The TEM analysis showed that the SNPs interact with the virion surface as well with the virion core. However, this interaction has no direct virucidal effect, instead exerts a blocking effect on viral entry into the target cells. This is the first documented evidence indicating that the SNPs are capable of inhibiting a Morbillivirus replication in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The U1 small nuclear (sn)RNA participates in splicing of pre-mRNAs by recognizing and binding to 5′ splice sites at exon/intron boundaries. U1 snRNAs associate with 5′ splice sites in the form of ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs) that are comprised of the U1 snRNA and 10 core components, including U1A, U1-70K, U1C and the ‘Smith antigen’, or Sm, heptamer. The U1 snRNA is highly conserved across a wide range of taxa; however, a number of reports have identified the presence of expressed U1-like snRNAs in multiple species, including humans. While numerous U1-like molecules have been shown to be expressed, it is unclear whether these variant snRNAs have the capacity to form snRNPs and participate in splicing. The purpose of the present study was to further characterize biochemically the ability of previously identified human U1-like variants to form snRNPs and bind to U1 snRNP proteins. A bioinformatics analysis provided support for the existence of multiple expressed variants. In vitro gel shift assays, competition assays, and immunoprecipitations (IPs) revealed that the variants formed high molecular weight assemblies to varying degrees and associated with core U1 snRNP proteins to a lesser extent than the canonical U1 snRNA. Together, these data suggest that the human U1 snRNA variants analyzed here are unable to efficiently bind U1 snRNP proteins. The current work provides additional biochemical insights into the ability of the variants to assemble into snRNPs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Peste des Petits Ruminants virus was isolated from a field outbreak in India. [•] Identity of the virus was confirmed by amplification and sequence analysis of N gene. [•] Virus reacted poorly with the diagnostic reagents used for PPR diagnosis in India. [•] A plaque assay for PPR virus was first time established. [•] In one step growth curve, duration of PPRV life cycle was determined (6–8h). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Integrated biohydrogen production have been reviewed using lignocellulosic biomass. • Integration of dark and photo-fermentation remarkably improves bio-H 2 production. • Integrated process has been discussed in details as new sustainable approach. • Key factors have been discussed to enhance the performance of integrated process. • Significance of integrated process have been explored as future prospects. Hydrogen production through biological route is the cleanest, renewable and potential way to sustainable energy generation. Productions of hydrogen via dark and photo fermentations are considered to be more sustainable and economical approach over numerous existing biological modes. Nevertheless, both the biological modes suffer from certain limitations like low yield and production rate, and because of these practical implementations are still far away. Therefore, the present review provides an assessment and feasibility of integrated biohydrogen production strategy by combining dark and photo-fermentation as an advanced biochemical processing while using lignocellulosics biomass to improve and accelerate the biohydrogen production technology in a sustainable manner. This review also evaluates practical viability of the integrated approach for biohydrogen production along with the analysis of the key factors which significantly influence to elevate this technology on commercial ground with the implementation of various environment friendly and innovative approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Low oxygen influences multiple stages in erythroid development. • Hypoxia enhances the development of megakaryoerythroid progenitors and proerythroblasts. • Hypoxia promotes enucleation of CD235a+ erythroid cells. Oxygen is a critical noncellular component of the bone marrow microenvironment that plays an important role in the development of hematopoietic cell lineages. In this study, we investigated the impact of low oxygen (hypoxia) on ex vivo myeloerythroid differentiation of human cord blood-derived CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. We characterized the culture conditions to demonstrate that low oxygen inhibits cell proliferation and causes a metabolic shift in the stem and progenitor populations. We found that hypoxia promotes erythroid differentiation by supporting the development of progenitor populations. Hypoxia also increases the megakaryoerythroid potential of the common myeloid progenitors and the erythroid potential of megakaryoerythroid progenitors and significantly accelerates maturation of erythroid cells. Specifically, we determined that hypoxia promotes the loss of CD71 and the appearance of the erythroid markers CD235a and CD239. Further, evaluation of erythroid populations revealed a hypoxia-induced increase in proerythroblasts and in enucleation of CD235a+ cells. These results reveal the extensive role of hypoxia at multiple steps during erythroid development. Overall, our work establishes a valuable model for further investigations into the relationship between erythroid progenitors and/or erythroblast populations and their hypoxic microenvironment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe herein that Apigenin, which is a dietary flavonoid, exerts a strong in vitro and in ovo antiviral efficacy against buffalopox virus (BPXV). Apigenin treatment was shown to inhibit synthesis of viral DNA, mRNA and proteins, without affecting other steps of viral life cycle such as attachment, entry and budding. Although the major mode of antiviral action of Apigenin was shown to be mediated via targeting certain cellular factors, a modest inhibitory effect of Apigenin was also observed directly on viral polymerase. We also evaluated the selection of drug-resistant virus variants under long-term selection pressure of Apigenin. Wherein Apigenin-resistant mutants were not observed up to ~ P20 (passage 20), a significant resistance was observed to the antiviral action of Apigenin at ~ P30. However, a high degree resistance could not be observed even up to P60. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing in vitro and in ovo antiviral efficacy of Apigenin against poxvirus infection. The study also provides mechanistic insights on the antiviral activity of Apigenin and selection of potential Apigenin-resistant mutants upon long-term culture. • Apigenin exhibits in vitro and in ovo antiviral activity against BPXV. • Apigenin targets cellular ERK/MNK1/eIF4E signaling to block BPXV protein synthesis. • Apigenin may also directly act to inhibit viral polymerase activity. • Generation of Apigenin-resistant viral mutants may not be an unprecedent event at higher passage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]