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Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by cognitive delays. Inborn errors of metabolism constitute an important subgroup of ID for which various treatments options are available. We aimed to identify potential biomarkers of inherited metabolic disorders from the children with ID using tandem mass spectrometry and develop a novel machine learning algorithm to differentiate between the cases and the controls. All of the cases were having IQ score <70, gross motor delay, speech disorder and no recognizable symptoms of the condition. Metabolite profiling of ID individuals exhibited low tyrosine/large neutral amino acids, high citrulline/arginine ratios; elevated proline, alanine, phenylalanine, and ornithine, while a significant decrease in the level of amino acid arginine, and elevated C4 (butyrylcarnitine) and C4OH/C3DC (3-hydroxybutyrylcarnitine/malonylcarnitine). Machine learning algorithm differentiated cases and controls efficiently using specific thresholds of ornithine, arginine and C4OH/C3DC. Furthermore, ID cases were distinguished into mild, moderate, and severe based on specific thresholds of methionine, arginine, and C5OH/C4DC (3-hydroxyisovalerylcarnitine/methylmalonylcarnitine). The machine learning algorithm could successfully identify specific metabolite markers in ID and correlate the same with neurological features.

The present line concentrator system with constant concentration ratio exhibits rise in temperature of working media, however if the difference between outlet and inlet temperature of working media is large then they exhibit lower efficiency. Also the rate of fall of efficiency with increase in its temperature difference is high. To overcome this problem it is proposed to have a variable concentration ratio concentrator system. The variable concentration ratio is achieved by employing receiver consisting of the pipes having different diameters; with the larger diameter pipe at start followed by small diameter receiver. Thus, the concentrator system will have different diameter receivers offering variable concentration ratio system. This concept is confirmed with the help of G.O. Lof, Fester and Duffie Beck paper. The present paper describes above concept by graphical analysis carried out for the newly proposed circular line concentrator with variable concentration ratio. The results of superimposition of graphs leads to confirmation for the promisingly use of variable concentration ratio receivers for enhancing efficiency of solar concentrating system.

This paper presents modeling, simulation and analysis of heat transfer and fluid flow in the tapered receiver used in solar cycloidal concentrating system which is a novel concept. The main objective of this paper is to analyze performance of solar cycloidal concentrating system by utilizing novel concept of tapered receiver for enhancement of system efficiency. This solar cycloidal concentrating system is used for testing purpose from Jan 20-April 20 in Pune city, India. The calibrated device Pyranometer is used to provide values of solar irradiance. Readings are taken daily after each one hour for the whole day. Modeling of the tapered receiver tube which is novelty of this research is done using SOLIDWORKS software. The governing equations of fluid flow and heat transfer in the system are solved by using ANSYS-CFX CFD software. The obtained results show efficiency increment and rise in temperature. Experimental results and analysis using software shows that using novel concept of tapered receiver, there is noticeable decrement in thermal losses as there is decrement in the area of receiver from inlet to outlet of receiver tube and hence increase in the efficiency is observed. The tapered receiver is designed in such a way that, the entire receiver tube of 20 feet is cut into a separate 20 pieces. Each piece is having 304.80 mm in long. Total 20 pieces are separately designed for manufacturing of taper receiver. For each piece cut of 0.9 mm from inlet to outlet is taken for OD as well as for ID using CNC machine. Tapered receiver was manufactured by using various operations which includes MS rod cutting, machining, welding, arrangement for sensor fitting at said location and end nozzles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the improper use of chemical fertilizers in sustainable agricultural practices, a pot as well as a field experiment were carried out to evaluate the effect of Glomus mosseae (biofertilizer), sole Nitrogen + Phosphorus + Potassium (NPK) a chemical fertilizer, and the combination of Glomus mosseae + NPK on total growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). A significant difference was observed between Glomus mosseae, sole NPK and combination of Glomus mosseae + NPK with respect to the control in the pot as well as field trails. Application of bio-fertilizer in form of Glomus mosseae was more effective in its role of enhancing physiological, biochemical, essential nutrient levels and total crop yield of groundnut as compared to chemical fertilizer used in form of NPK and the combination of Glomus mosseae +NPK. Our study signifies the use of Glomus mosseae as a cost-effective, eco- friendly biofertilizer, which may reduce the amount of excessive use of chemical fertilizer needed for groundnut production and sustainable agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of sustainable technology for the extraction of value-added products from the ecological feedstock is gaining importance. The present work focuses on the intensification of extraction of different metabolites such as phycocyanin and β carotene from microalgae (Spirulina platensis) and also presents the optimum extraction parameters using an ultrasound-assisted approach. Initially, phycocyanin was extracted from lyophilized biomass of Spirulina platensis using an ultrasound-assisted approach, and then the extract was centrifuged and the supernatant was treated by using the sugaring-out method to separate phycocyanin from chlorophyll. The remaining biomass was further used for the extraction of β-carotene using the same ultrasound-assisted approach. Various operating parameters such as amplitude, duty cycle, sonication time, and depth of horn immersed into the solution have been investigated for intensified extraction. Moreover, Taguchi design of experiments was used to evaluate the yield of β-carotene using the L9 orthogonal array based on the effect of probe length, amplitude, duty cycle, and sonication time. On the basis of results and signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio analysis, a ranking of the parameters was performed. It can be noted here that the order of ranking was amplitude > sonication time > duty cycle > depth of horn immersing into the solution. Overall, it has been observed that maximum extraction of phycocyanin and β-carotene was 67 mg/g of dry biomass and 4.66 mg/g of dry weight, which was obtained at optimal amplitudes of 80% and 66% of the duty cycle and 0.5 cm depth of horn immersing into the solution in 4 min and 10 min, respectively. The present study clearly demonstrated that significant intensification benefits can be obtained in terms of the extraction of metabolites at optimal conditions using the ultrasound-assisted approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple, reliable, low cost, and portable biosensor has been developed for direct measurement of urea levels in serum samples. It is based on hydrolysis of urea by immobilized urease, generating ammonia that is estimated by modified Berthelot method using simple optical detection system. The immobilization of urease was achieved in agarose guar-gum composite film for the first time which offered an excellent retention of enzyme activity (90%–95%) with negligible leaching and good operational stability. The optical detection system involving LED light, optical fiber, and phototransistor provides simple and portable measurement system. The sensor shows linear response in the wide range of urea concentration from 0.025 to 10 mM with reusability for 10 cycles and superior storage stability of 180 days. The fabricated biosensor was successfully employed for measurement of normal and abnormal urea levels in serum samples with accuracy of 96% using very small sample volume ( $15~\mu \text{l}$ ). It showed an excellent correlation ( $r^{2}=0.99$ ) for determination of urea levels with that of using Siemens autoanalyzer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bacterial genus Gordonia encompasses a variety of versatile species that have been isolated from a multitude of environments. Gordonia was described as a genus about 20 years ago, and to date, 39 different species have been identified. Gordonia is recognized for symbiotic associations with multiple hosts, including aquatic (marine and fresh water) biological forms and terrestrial invertebrates. Some Gordonia species isolated from clinical specimens are known to be opportunistic human pathogens causing secondary infections in immunocompromised and immunosuppressive individuals. They are also predominant in mangrove ecosystems and terrestrial sites. Members of the genus Gordonia are ecologically adaptable and show marked variations in their properties and products. They generate diverse bioactive compounds and produce a variety of extracellular enzymes. In addition, production of surface active compounds and carotenoid pigments allows this group of microorganisms to grow under different conditions. Several isolates from water and soil have been implicated in bioremediation of different environments and plant associated species have been explored for agricultural applications. This review highlights the prevalence of the members of this versatile genus in diverse environments, details its associations with living forms, summarizes the biotechnologically relevant products that can be obtained and discusses the salient genomic features that allow this Actinomycete to survive in different ecological niches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundnut is the sixth most important oilseed crop in the world and India is the second largest groundnut producing country. There is a need of increasing the production of groundnut and stabilizing its yield by using proper agricultural practices. Application of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) has been considered as an important strategy for sustainable agricultural practices. Approach of the present study was to evaluate effectiveness of ten different indigenous mycorrhizal species viz. Glomus mosseae, Glomus clarum, Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus intraradices, Glomus ambisporum, Gigaspora gigantea, Acaulospora denticulata, Glomus globiferum, Gigaspora albida and Glomus pansiholus on oil content, acid value, fatty acid profile and elemental status of groundnut oil. All the mycorrhizal treatments showed significant results as compared to the control (non mycorrhizal plants), but Glomus mosseae was found to be the most superior of all the ten mycorrhizal species. Oil percentage, extracted from Glomus mosseae (41.66%) treated groundnut oil was higher as compared to control (28.50%). Oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid content from groundnut oil of mycorrhiza treated plants varied in range of 36–45%, 16–22%, 13–18% respectively. Oil from Glomus mosseae treated groundnut plant showed increase in zinc, calcium, magnesium, manganese content than other mycorrhiza treated groundnut seed oil and control. Oil extracted from mycorrhiza treated groundnut oil showed decrease in acid value (AV) than control, which indicates higher stability of oil and longer shelf life. Therefore, it is very important to select the correct and specific species of AMF for improving the oil profile of Groundnut ( Arachis hypogaea L.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A potentiometric biosensor based on agarose-guar gum (A-G) entrapped bio-nanoconjugate of urease with gold nanoparticles (AUNps), has been reported for the first time for glyphosate detection. The biosensor is based on inhibition of urease activity by glyphosate, which was measured by direct potentiometry using ammonium ion selective electrode covered with A-G-urease nanoconjugate membrane. TEM and FTIR analysis revealed nanoconjugate formation and its immobilization in A-G matrix respectively. The composite biopolymer employed for immobilization yields thin, transparent, flexible membrane having superior mechanical strength and stability. It retains the maximum activity (92%) of urease with negligible leaching. The conjugation of urease with AUNps allows improvement in response characteristics for potentiometric measurement. The biosensor shows a linear response in the glyphosate concentration range from 0.5 ppm–50 ppm, with limit of detection at 0.5 ppm, which covers maximum residual limit set by WHO for drinking water. The inhibition of catalytic activity of urease nanoconjugate by gyphosate was confirmed by FTIR analysis. The response of fabricated biosensor is selective towards glyphosate as against various other pesticides. The biosensor exhibits good performance in terms of reproducibility and prolonged storage stability of 180 days. Thus, the present biosensor provides an alternative method for simple, selective and cost effective detection of glyphosate based on urease inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play an important and increasingly well-recognized role in agro ecosystems. Beneficial soil microorganisms like arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and soil health are key factors for producing safe plants. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic association with roots of plants and facilitate plant growth through enhancing uptake of several macro- and micro-nutrients of low mobility in soil, like phosphorus, zinc, copper, etc. In the present study, we investigated the effect of 10 different isolated mycorrhizal species viz. Glomus mosseae, Glomus clarum, Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus intraradices, Glomus ambisporum, Gigaspora gigantea, Acaulospora denticulata, Glomus globiferum, Gigaspora albida, and Glomus pansiholus on growth, yield, and essential nutrient content of groundnut (Arachis hypogeae L.). Plants inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi showed significant increments in growth, yield, and nutrient uptake as compared to control (uninoculated) plants. Amongst all, plants inoculated with Glomus mosseae were more efficient in increasing growth parameters, enzymatic activities of nitrate reductase, and alkaline phosphatase as well as total yield as compared to other mycorrhizal inoculated plants. Overall, the study showed an additive effect of all mycorrhizal species on plant physiology. Thus, this study provides an important insight that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are most suitable for sustainable agriculture which will improve and help in increasing the growth as well as yield of groundnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A demonstration that, in the polymerization of divinyl monomers, the double bond included in the cyclodextrins (CD) cavity does not react with the growing radical chain is presented. This results in soluble, linear polymers containing pendant vinyl unsaturations.

This paper reports the wide range ammonia sensing behavior of biopolymer polyaniline composite. The agarose–guar gum-polyaniline (A–G-PANI) composite films were prepared by the \textit in situ synthesis of polyaniline in the biopolymeric matrix. The polyaniline biocomposite exhibits an interpenetrated network structure as confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy. The synthesized polyaniline biopolymer composite shows an excellent ammonia sensing behavior over a wide range of 10–90 000 ppm (9%). The sensor shows high performance in terms of sensitivity factor ( R\mathrm {gas}/R\mathrm {air}) ranging from 1.07 to 34.95 in the entire concentration range. The response time and recovery time of the sensor varies from 2 to 5 min and 5 to 25 min, respectively, with respect to the increase in the concentration of gas. The sensor shows selective response against H2S, ethanol, methanol, and acetone. The enhanced performance of the sensor is attributed to the presence of large number of sites provided by the interpenetrated network structure of polyaniline biocomposite. The electrical circuit model for A–G-PANI is constructed using the electrical impedance spectroscopy, and a probable mechanism is proposed for detection over a wide range. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study elucidated the individual and mixed mycorrhizal effects of two arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) isolates on growth and biochemical status of Acacia arabica under salinity stress gradients. Salt treatment provided in soil hampered legume growth and its biochemical status. But, mycorrhizal colonizations in plant root system reduced the extent of deleterious salt effect and also helped in plant growth enhancement. Additionally, mixed mycorrhizal association (Glomus mosseae + Glomus fasciculatum) responded better towards osmolyte accumulation and in salt stress alleviation. Due to individual and mixed mycorrhizal colonizations in A. arabica; protein, carbohydrate and reducing sugar acquisitions were found maximum at soil salinity of 5.94 dS/m over corresponding non-mycorrhizal plant. However, mixed AM inoculation accumulated proline content and improved dry biomass to a higher magnitude at the highest soil salinity level. Mixed AM (G. mosseae + G. fasciculatum) colonization improved maximum amount of total chlorophyll (20.94%), protein (19.72%), carbohydrate (23.83%), reducing sugar (17.60%) at soil salinity of 5.94 dS/m and dry biomass (20.35%), proline content (10.99%) at salinity level of 8.26 dS/m when compared with non-mycorrhizal counterpart. Greater magnitude of AM root colonization was found in mixed AM treated plant and may be responsible for more improvement in growth and biochemical status and consequently mitigated adverse salt effect better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: South Asians are more prone to develop metabolic syndrome (MetS). The additive predictive value of components of MetS for cardiovascular diseases is still debated. We undertook this study to evaluate the association of MetS and its components with severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). Materials and Methods: Three hundred patients with known coronary disease above the age of 25 years were included in this study. Blood samples were collected for biochemical markers. Patients were stratified into subjects with and without MetS (International Diabetes Federation, IDF, criteria) and severity of CAD (number of vessel involved). Results: Mean age of the patient in the study was 60.9 ± 12.4 years (male, M: 72%; female, F: 28%). MetS was present in 64% patients. Patients with MetS had more severe CAD compared to those without MetS. Triple vessel disease (TVD) was present in 62.5% of patients with MetS compared to 34.3% among without MetS (P < 0.0001). The percent number of patients with TVD showed increasing trend with increasing number of components of MetS (0-0%; 1-20%; 2-27.5%; 3-47.8%; 4-72.6%; 5-78.3%; Chi square for trend <0.0001). Inflammatory markers [interleukin (IL) 6: 77.67 ± 79.48 vs. 41.21 ± 60.72 pg/ml, P < 0.0001; tumor nuclear factor (TNF)-a: 28.0 ± 47.49 vs 20.43 ± 24.5 pg/ml, P < 0.0001; high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP): 14.30 ± 9.91 vs. 7.02 ± 7.18 mg/L, P < 0.0001], insulin resistance [homeostatic model analysis insulin resistance (HOMA-IR): 22.33 ± 23.37 vs. 10.86 ± 13.90, P < 0.0001] were higher and insulin sensitivity [quantitative insulin check index (QUICKI): 0.26 ± 0.03 vs. 0.30 ± 0.04, P < 0.0001] was significantly lower in subjects with MetS compared to subjects without MetS. Among lipids, total cholesterol were comparable but triglyceride (175 ± 42 vs. 179 ± 48 vs. 180 ± 47 mg/dl, P < 0.0001) was high and high-density lipoprotein (HDL; 44.72 ± 7.63 vs. 39.96 ± 8.70 vs. 36.05 ± 8.84, P < 0.0001) was low in subjects with TVD compared to others. Similarly, percentage of patients with diabetes (7.5% vs. 26.3% vs. 63.7%, P < 0.0001) and hypertension (34.3% vs. 56.6% vs. 77.7%, P < 0.0001) were higher in subjects with TVD compared to others. Conclusions: There is a strong correlation of MetS and its components with severity of CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symbiotic association between arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) species and host plant roots improves plant growth and protects them from several abiotic stress factors. In the present study, the effect of Glomus mosseae and Glomus fasciculatum as an individual inoculation and in combination was studied on two legumes (Glycine max and Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) under soil salinity stress gradient [1.04 (control) to 8.26 dS/m]. Individual and co-inoculation of both the AM fungi alleviated adverse salt effect, with improvement in plant dry weight matter and biochemical parameters. However, these two isolates worked better in combination with respect to higher accumulation of soluble carbohydrate, reducing sugar, protein, proline concentration etc. C. tetragonoloba showed better response as compared to G. max in relation to improvement in nutritional profile under salt stress after AM treatment. As compared to non-mycorrhizal counterparts, co-inoculation with G. mosseae and G. fasciculatum in C. tetragonoloba enhanced total chlorophyll (14.83% at soil salinity of 3.78 dS/m), soluble carbohydrate (17.26% at soil salinity of 5.94 dS/m), proline (8.79% at soil salinity of 3.78 dS/m) while exposed to different soil salinity levels. Also, co-colonization with both the isolates showed more root colonization (%) and may be responsible for the better effect in salt stress alleviation. Electrolyte leakage of mycorrhizal plants was lowered at soil salinity gradient of 2.10 to 8.26 dS/m and hence, maintained membrane stability. These two isolates can be utilized as bio-inoculant in alleviation of adverse salt effect in soil in association with the two test legume plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing salinization of fertile soil is becoming a serious agricultural problem. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi improve plant growth by improving nutrient mobilization under salt stress. A greenhouse experiment was undertaken to check effect of Glomus mosseae, Glomus fasciculatum on mineral uptake of Arachis hypogaea under various salinity stresses. The experiment comprised of five salinity levels (EC: 1.04 (control), 2.10, 3.78, 5.94, 8.26 dS/m) and four mycorrhizal status as non-mycorrhizal (uninoculated), G. mosseae and G. fasciculatum individually and their mixed inoculation. Under salinity stress, mycorrhiza inoculated plants showed significant increase in Cu, Zn, K/Na, Mg/Na and Ca/Na ratios but, highest accumulation (P: 53.33%, Cu: 34.36%, Zn: 21.52%, Ca/Na: 50.43%, K/Na: 42.06% and Mg/Na: 57.26%) was observed in plants inoculated with mixed mycorrhizal fungi. Hence, in amelioration of salinity stress and to prevent nutrient imbalance in A. hypogaea plant, G. mosseae and G. fasciculatum in mixed treatment can be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dyslipidemia is a primary, widely established as an independent major risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Asians differs in prevalence of various lipid abnormalities than non-Asians. Hence, this study was conducted with objective to evaluate the lipid abnormalities and there correlation with traditional and non-traditional risk factors in known subjects with CAD. Materials and Methods: We studied the pattern and association of dyslipidemia with cardiovascular risk factors in 300 (Male: 216; Female: 84, age: 60.9 ± 12.4 years, range: 25-92 years) angiographically proved CAD patients. All patients were evaluated for anthropometry and cardiovascular risk factors and blood samples were collected for biochemical and inflammatory markers. Results: Hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and low high density lipoprotein (HDL) was present in 23.3%, 63.0% and 54.6% in the total study population respectively. A total of 41.3% had atherogenic dyslipidemia (raised triglycerides [TG] and low HDL). Percentage of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension were higher in subjects with atherogenic dyslipidemia. Insulin sensitivity was low; insulin and insulin resistance (IR) along with inflammatory markers were high in subjects with atherogenic dyslipidemia. Patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia had significantly lower serum vitamin B12 levels and higher homocysteine (Hcy) levels. Hypertriglyceridemia was positively correlated with insulin, homeostasis model assessment of IR, Hcy, interleukin-6, Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, highly sensitive C-reactive protein and negatively with vitamin B12 and quantitative insulin check index and an opposite correlation of all quoted parameters was observed with low HDL. The correlation of traditional and non-traditional risk factors was stronger with low HDL and high TG compared with hypercholesterolemia. Conclusions: Hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL cholesterol is common in patients with CAD compared with hypercholesterolemia. This suggests that different preventive strategy is required in Indian patients with CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is an increase in awareness about the role of nutritional factors in chronic non-communicable diseases. We therefore conducted this study with an aim to assess the relationship between nutritional factor (vitamin B12 and homocysteine [Hcy]) and its association with insulin resistance and inflammatory markers, and differences in traditional and non-traditional risk factors among diabetics and non-diabetics in known cases of coronary artery disease (CAD). Materials and Methods: Three hundred consecutive patients with known coronary disease on coronary angiography, who were >25 years old were included in this study. All cases were interviewed using a questionnaire. Blood samples were analyzed for insulin, vitamin B12, Hcy and inflammatory markers (highly sensitive C-reactive protein [hsCRP], interleukin-6 [IL-6], Tumor necrosis factor-alfa [TNF-α]). Insulin resistance was calculated with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Results: Mean age of the patients was 60.95 ± 12.3 years. Body mass index and waist hip ratio were comparable in both groups. Triglyceride, very low-density lipoprotein and HbA1C were significantly higher and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was significantly lower in patients with diabetes. Patients with diabetes had significantly high levels of IL-6, hsCRP and TNF-α compared with non-diabetic patients. Insulin resistance was twofold higher in diabetic patients. Serum vitamin B12 levels were significantly lower and Hcy was significantly higher in the diabetic group compared with the non-diabetic patients. HbA1C, HOMA-IR and Hcy levels were positively correlated with inflammatory markers in the total study population and in the non-diabetic patients; but, in diabetic patients, HbA1C and Hcy showed this relation. Conclusions: Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in the diabetic population. Hcy levels were higher in diabetics compared with non-diabetics, and were related to glycemic level and insulin resistance in diabetic patients. Patients with diabetes had higher traditional risk factors than patients without diabetes in known patients with CAD. Glycemic status was associated with insulin resistance and inflammatory markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Folate and vitamin 812 are essential components in the metabolism of homocysteine (Hey). Hyperhomocysteinemia has been implicated in endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascu lar disease. However, the association of Hey, vitamin B1 2, and folic acid with cardiovascular risk factors in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) has not been studied in Indian patients. This study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the relationship of vitamin B1 2, folic acid, and Hey levels with card iovascular risk factors in subjects with known CAD. Methods and subjects: Three hundred patients (216 men; 84 women; aged 25-92 years) who had CAD on angiography were included in this study consecutively. All patients were evaluated for anthropometry and cardiovascu lar ri sk factors, and blood samples were collected for biochemical, nutritional, and inflammatory markers. Results: Percentage of vitamin B12 and fo late deficiency was 86.7% and 2.7%, respectively. Hyperhomocysteinemia was present in 95.3% patients. Vitamin B12 levels were significantly lower and Hey levels were signi ficantly higher in subjects with dyslipidemia, DM. and/or hypertension. Serum vitamin B12 was inversely associated with triglyceride and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and positively with high-density lipop rotein (HDL). Hey was positively associated with triglyceride and VLDL and negatively with HDL. Vitamin B12 was inversely correlated with inflammatory markers (high-sensitivity (-reactive protein and interleukin-6) directly related to insulin resistance whereas Hey showed the opposite pattern. Conclusions: Serum vitamin B12 deficiency and hyperhomocysteinemia are related with cardiovascular risk factors in Indian patients with CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) species diversity and their root colonization patterns may vary in a plant species as influenced by soil environmental and biological factors. In the present study, sugarcane rhizospheric soils were collected from 41 main sugarcane producing tehsil places belonging to 10 districts from Maharashtra, India. Rhizospheric soil samples and roots were analyzed for spore density, relative abundance and frequency of AM spores at genus as well as at species level, extent of AM colonization in roots and various soil chemical properties. Soil sample from Jalgaon district possessed maximum spore density and AM root colonization. Genus Glomus exhibited highest relative abundance with maximum frequency of 32.55%. Species wise, Glomus fasciculatum possessed highest relative abundance and maximum frequency was observed in case of Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus intraradices, Glomus mosseae and Glomus versiforme. Maximum similarity of AM spores was recorded between Satara and Sangli districts which may be because of almost similar soil pH profile. Data obtained after cluster analysis represented the close relationship between spore density, AM root colonization and soil Cu, Zn and Fe concentrations. A statistically significant positive correlation was also found when AM spore density and root colonization was compared with soil Cu, Zn and Fe contents. This kind of data can be used to predict type of AM fungi to be used as bioinoculant in particular region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aliphatic polyesters containing pendent unsaturation were synthesized by the polycondensation of a diol, dicarboxylic acid and glycidyl methacrylate. Grafting methacrylic acid (MAA) resulted in graft copolymers containing polyester backbone and MAA grafts. Depending on composition, the polymers swelled extensively and eroded or dissolved at near neutral pH but remained in collapsed state at acidic pH. Three representative drugs differing in solubility, viz., Diltiazem hydrochloride (DH), Indomethacin (IM) and Verapamil hydrochloride (VH) were released at constant rate from tablets made by compressing spray-dried microparticles. The release of DH at constant rate has been attributed to increase in diffusion coefficient of the drug from the swollen layer of matrix. The release of IM and VH at constant rate was governed by erosion and was enhanced in matrices which undergo dissolution. The release rate was enhanced with increasing MAA content and the frequency of grafts along the polyester backbone. Once a day dosage forms for drugs differing in solubility have been developed using a single polymer matrix which is easy to manufacture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New biodegradable poly β amino esters were synthesized by the polymerization of Deoxycholic acid (DOCA) in all the structural planes by 1, 4 addition of Trimethylene dipiperidine (TMDP) to diacrylates of Deoxycholyl glycol, Methyl deoxycholate and Trimethylolpropane deoxycholate esters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Intestinal tuberculosis needs to be considered in the differential diagnosis when patients with intestinal pathology are encountered. Tuberculosis can mimic other disease entities like, ischemic enteritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, malignancies, intussusception etc., clinically as well as morphologically in resected intestinal specimens. We aimed to study the various clinical presentations leading to intestinal resection, with identification of different etiological factors by histopathological examination; and to illustrate, discuss and describe the various histopathological features of the lesions in these resected intestinal specimens with clinicopathological correlation. Materials and Methods: We studied 100 cases of resected intestinal specimens received during September 2002 to December 2003. We totally encountered 22 request forms with clinical suspicion of ileoceocal tuberculosis. Results: Abdominal tenderness and mass in ileoceocal region were noted in all cases. In many instances, the cases were operated for acute/subacute intestinal obstruction. Clinical and intra-operative diagnoses of tubercular enteritis, in many instances, were finally diagnosed histopathologically as ischemic enteritis (nine cases), chronic nonspecific enteritis (four cases), adenocarcinoma of the caecum, Crohn's disease, intussusception (each one case), and correctly as intestinal tuberculosis in only six cases. Conclusion: Tuberculosis can mimic various disease entities, clinically and sometimes morphologically. Vice versa is also true. An increased awareness of intestinal tuberculosis coupled with varied clinical presentations, nonspecific signs and symptoms, difficulties in diagnostic methods and need of early and specific treatment should improve the outcome for patients with this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objectives were to correlate the modified fluorescent method with the conventional Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) method for the detection of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) and, also to study the eficacy and advantages of using the auramine-rhodamine stain on lymph node aspirates under luorescent microscopy. Methods: In 108 consecutive patients with a clinical suspicion of tuberculosis (TB) presenting with lymphadenopathy, fine needle aspirations were performed. Smears from the aspirates were processed for routine cytology, the conventional ZN method, and the modified fluorescent method. The significance of the modified fluorescent method over the conventional ZN method was analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: Out of 108 aspirates, 102 were studied and remaining 6 were excluded from the study due to diagnosis of malignancy in 4.04% (4/6) and inadequate aspiration in 2.02% (2/6). Among the 102 aspirates, 44.11% (45/102) were positive for AFB on the conventional ZN method, 58.9% (60/102) were indicative of TB on cytology, while the smear positive increased to 81.37% (83/102) on the modified fluorescent method. Conclusions: Fluorescent microscopy has the advantage of speed and ease of screening, and reduces observer fatigue. The modified fluorescent method was found to be more advantageous than routine cytology and conventional ZN method, particularly in paucibacillary cases. The bacillary positivity rates were higher in the modified fluorescent method than in the ZN method. Hence, the modified fluorescent method can be an adjuvant when used with routine cytology for the identification of AFB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Siderophore are iron-scavenging biomolecules secreted by a variety of microorganisms in the environment that promote plant growth. In this study, we have identified a hydroxamate type siderophore desferrioxamine E produced by an indigenous salt tolerant Pseudomonas stutzeri strain SGM-1 under iron deficient condition. This bacterial strain was previously isolated from the saline-sodic soil sample on the basis of its salt tolerance through media enrichment. This strain could withstand at increasing salt concentrations (up to 12% w/v NaCl) and tolerated stress of acid as well as alkalinity, even grew over wide temperature ranges. Under iron deficient condition this isolate produced siderophore which was determined qualitatively by universal Chrome Azurol-Sulphonate (CAS) assay and quantitatively by spectrophotometry from the broth supernatant, also, its chemical type was determined by various type detection tests. Identification by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry showed the hydroxamate type siderophore was desferrioxamine E. The efficacy of the desferrioxamine E was assessed for increasing the iron content of wheat (Triticum aestivum) plant, validated through Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES). It is suggested that this strain is a useful plant growth promoting bioinoculant for enhancing iron content under stressed conditions for sustainable agricultural practices. • Pseudomonas stutzeri SGM-1 is an indigenous salt tolerant isolate. • Pseudomonas stutzeri SGM-1 can grow in iron deficient conditions to induce desferrioxamine E siderophore production. • Isolate SGM-1 produce desferrioxamine E siderophore under iron deficiency combined with salt stress condition. • Desferrioxamine E siderophore increase iron content of Triticum aestivum crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

: BackgroundThe most effective method for managing pericardial effusions has yet to be identified. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of echocardiographic-guided placement of indwelling catheters into the pericardial space.: MethodsThis study consists of a 5-year retrospective chart review of consecutive patients coded with benign or malignant pericardial effusions who presented for drainage procedures to a single surgeon at a 260-bed hospital. Complication, recurrence, and survival rates were studied.: ResultsBetween January 1996 and August 2001, a total of 29 pericardial drainage procedures were performed; eight of those also underwent talc sclerosis. Mean follow-up was 16 months. Three patients (10%) required conversion to thoracotomy; of those remaining, 25 of the 26 procedures were performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. The identified etiologies for pericardial effusions were malignancy (76%), idiopathic (14%), postcoronary artery bypass grafting procedure (3%), viral pericarditis (3%), and uremia (3%). Echocardiographic features of tamponade were documented in 72%. Mean ± SEM length of postprocedure in-hospital stay was 6.7 ± 0.82 days. The overall complication rate was 10% (pneumothorax and cardiac injury). Recurrence rate within 30 days was 7%. Thirty-day mortality was 21%, and more than 90-day survival was 72%.: ConclusionsPericardiocentesis with extended catheter drainage is a safe treatment for management of clinically significant, malignant and benign, pericardial effusions and can be performed effectively under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A tropical soil Actinomycete, Gordonia amicalis HS-11, has been previously demonstrated to degrade unsaturated and saturated hydrocarbons (squalene and n -hexadecane, respectively) in an effective manner. In present study, G. amicalis HS-11 degraded 92.85 ± 3.42% of the provided diesel oil [1% (v/v)] after 16 days of aerobic incubation. The effect of different culture conditions such as carbon source, nitrogen source, pH, temperature, and aeration on degradation was studied. During degradation, this Actinomycete synthesized surface active compounds (SACs) in an extracellular manner that brought about a reduction in surface tension from 69 ± 2.1 to 30 ± 1.1 mN m−1 after 16 days. The morphology of cells grown on diesel was monitored by using a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope. Diesel-grown cells were longer and clumped with smooth surfaces, possibly due to the secretion of SACs. The interaction between the cells and diesel oil was studied by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope. Some cells were adherent on small diesel droplets and others were present in the non-attached form thus confirming the emulsification ability of this organism. The fatty acid profiles of the organism grown on diesel oil for 48 h were different from those on Luria Bertani Broth. The genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of diesel oil before and after degradation were determined. Cytogenetic parameters such as mitotic index (MI); mitosis distribution and chromosomal aberration (type and frequency) were assessed. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase and concentration of malondialdehyde. On the basis of these studies it was deduced that the degradation metabolites were relatively non-toxic. Image 1 • Gordonia amicalis HS-11, a tropical soil isolate degraded diesel oil effectively. • Surface active compounds (SACs) were produced in an extracellular manner. • The organism emulsified diesel oil prior to uptake. • Morphology and fatty acid profiles of the isolate on diesel were distinct. • Metabolites obtained after degradation were relatively non-toxic. Gordonia amicalis HS-11 is able to degrade hydrocarbons present in diesel oil to metabolites that are relatively less toxic. The isolate can be used in the future to develop a clean-up process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]