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RNA sequencing-based expression profiles from pectoralis major muscles of black meat (Kadaknath) and white meat (broiler) chicken were compared to identify differentially expressed genes. A total of 156 genes with log2 fold change ≥ ± 2.0 showed higher expression in Kadaknath and 68 genes were expressed at a lower level in comparison to broiler. Significantly enriched biological functions of up-regulated genes in Kadaknath were skeletal muscle cell differentiation, regulation of response to reactive oxygen, positive regulation of fat cell differentiation and melanosome. Significant ontology terms up-regulated in broiler included DNA replication origin binding, G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathway and chemokine activity. Highly inter-connected differentially expressed genes in Kadaknath (ATFs, C/EPDs) were observed to be important regulators of cellular adaptive functions, while in broiler, the hub genes were involved in cell cycle progression and DNA replication. The study is an attempt to get an insight into the transcript diversity of pectoralis major muscles of Kadaknath and broiler chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kadaknath, the only black chicken indigenous to India, faces the threat of extinction due to declining numbers. Its meat is used in tribal medicine for invigorating and health-promoting properties. Expectations of immune-boosting and therapeutic properties in its meat are creating a buzz these days. Thus, Kadaknath meat was explored and further compared with the commercial Cobb 400 broiler (Cobb) for the functional traits that might be contributing towards proclaimed pharmacological benefits. Birds (n = 20/ group) were raised under similar management conditions and the two primal chicken meat cuts (breast and thigh) were collected at the marketing age. Kadaknath meat was found to be an enriched source of functional biomolecules (carnosine, anserine, creatine). Its breast meat carnosine content was more than double of the Cobb broiler, 6.10 ± 0.13 and 2.73 ± 0.1 mg/ g of wet tissue, respectively. Similarly, the thigh meat of Kadaknath was a significantly (P < 0.05) richer source of carnosine. The genetic background was a key determinant for muscle carnosine content as a significant abundance of CARNS1 and SLC36A1 expression was identified in the Kadaknath breast. The superior functional property of Kadaknath meat was established by the antioxidant capacity established by the Oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay and a stronger ability to inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The identification of fairly unknown nutritional and functional advantages of Kadaknath meat could potentially change the paradigm with its meat consumption. It will help in developing a brand name for Kadaknath products that will propel an increase in its market share and ultimately conservation of this unique but endangered poultry germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Use of internet has increased exponentially worldwide with prevalence of internet addiction ranging from 1.6% to 18 % or even higher. Depression and insomnia has been linked with internet addiction and overuse in several studies. Aims and Objectives: Present study has looked in to pattern and prevalence of internet addiction in university students. This study has also explored the association of internet addiction with depression and insomnia. Material and Methods: In this cross sectional study 954 subjects were enrolled who had been using internet for past 6 months. Information regarding pattern of use and socio demographic characteristics were recorded. Internet addiction Test (IAT), PHQ-9,and insomnia Severity Index (ISI) were applied to measure internet addiction, depression and insomnia respectively. Results: Among 954 subjects, 518 (60.59%) were male and 376 (39.41%) were female with mean age of 23.81 (SD ± 3.72). 15.51% study subjects were internet addicts and 49.19% were over users. Several parameters including graduation level, time spent per day on line, place of internet use, smoking and alcohol had significant association with internet addiction. Internet addiction was predominantly associated with depression and insomnia. Conclusion: Internet addiction is a rising concern among youth. Several parameters including gender, time spent on line, alcohol, smoking predicts higher risk of internet addiction. Depression and insomnia are more common in internet addicts and overusers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PFLO beads exhibited efficient adsorption for Co(II) ions (344.82 mg/g at 318 K). • Co(II) adsorption was well fitted by Langmuir and second-order kinetic models. • RSM was used to examine the adsorption process of PFLO beads for Co(II) adsorption. • The PFLO beads retain 74% reusability for Co(II) adsorption after five cycles. Contamination of water through heavy metal ions has received great attention and wide-ranging consequences for human health and living beings. Polymer@metal oxide composites are good candidates for detoxification of water contaminants. Herein, we report pectin@Fe 3 O 4 -La 2 O 3 (PFLO) beads for the selective adsorption of aqueous Co(II) ions. The synthesized PFLO beads are eco-friendly, low-cost, easy to handle, simple, and have good adsorption selectivity. The Co(II) adsorption was well fitted by Langmuir and Pseudo-second-order kinetic models. Response surface modeling (RSM) was used to examine the adsorption process of PFLO beads for Co(II) adsorption. Different characterization techniques were used to explain the fabrication and adsorption mechanism i.e., XPS, XRD, FTIR, BET, FESEM, EDAX, and TGA. The monolayer adsorption capacity of synthesized PFLO beads at 318 K was found to be 344.82 mg/g. The thermodynamic studies demonstrate the adsorption process is spontaneous, workable, and endothermic. Teabag's experiment shows the commercial application of the adsorbent. The PFLO beads nanocomposite maintains 74% reusability for Co(II) adsorption even after five cycles. The developed PFLO nanocomposites can be used as potential adsorbents for effective, reproducible and selective adsorption of aqueous Co(II). This paper will be beneficial for researchers working towards further improving water purification technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hailey--Hailey disease also known as Familial benign chronic pemphigus is a relatively uncommon disease characterized by painful erosions, vesicles, pustules and scaly erythematous plaques on the neck, axillae, groins and perineum. A case of 27 years old male with history of recurrent, itchy, erythematous, papules and vesicles over the groins presented to the dermatology OPD. A clinical diagnosis of Hailey -- Hailey disease was made which was confirmed later by histopathological examination. He was treated with tacrolimus ointment and showed a remarkable improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bolton's norms are an essential parameter used in orthodontic diagnosis to evaluate the tooth size discrepancy. However, these norms have been established for Caucasian population and population variations necessitates the evaluation of these norms on Haryana population. Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine Bolton's ratios for Haryana population, compare them with original Bolton's ratios and determine the clinical significance of these differences. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of study casts of 100 subjects in the age range of 18-25 years, all belonging to Haryana population, having a full complement of teeth with Angle's Class I molar and canine relationship, proper intercuspation, normal overjet and overbite and minimal crowding and spacing. Tooth dimensions were measured using digital vernier caliper (accurate to 0.01 mm) and Bolton's anterior and overall ratio was calculated. Unpaired t-test was used to determine statistical differences between sexes and Single sum t-test was used to determine difference between population groups. Results: Bolton's anterior and overall ratio norms for Haryana population sample were found to be 77.89+0.23% and 91.45+1.77% respectively. Statistically significant differences were found in the anterior ratio of Haryana population and Bolton's original values but both anterior and overall ratio of Haryana population lie well within the 1 standard deviation of original Bolton's norms. Conclusion: Clinical relevance of differences in Bolton's norms established for Haryana population was not found in spite of statistically significant differences from original Bolton's norms. Hence, original Bolton's norms for anterior and overall ratio can be used for Haryana population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Bakery products are items of mass consumption in view of its low price and high nutrient value. With rapid growth and changing eating habits of people, bakery products have gained popularity among masses. Materials and Methods. About 200 working and 200 non-working women were selected by simple random sampling method from Central India, Maharashtra, India and the data was collected using interview cum questionnaire method. Purchasing pattern of five bakery products viz., bread, buns, biscuit, cake and pizza bread were studied with respect to age group, qualification, family size, number of earning members and family monthly income of the working and nonworking women. Results and Discussion. The results of the study showed that the average age of working women was 39.39± 6.15 years and non-working women was 38.36±5.7 years. The average monthly income of working and non-working women was Rs. 38,125±19,550 and Rs. 40,625±20,825 respectively. Bread was found to be the most consumed bakery products among both types of families (79.5% in working and 83.5% non-working) followed by biscuits (76.5% in working and 70.5% non-working). The purchasing of buns, cake and pizza bread among working women were 7.5%, 19 % and 14% whereas among nonworking families it was 13%, 23% and 18.5% respectively. The significant associations were observed between the purchasing pattern of bread (p=0.000), biscuits (p=0.000) and cake (p=0.010) with the educational status of working and non-working women. The age group, family size, number of earning members and monthly income of working and non-working women did not show any association with the purchasing pattern of bakery products. Conclusion. Purchasing of bakery products was same in both working and nonworking women. Among demographic characteristics, education of women significantly affected the purchasing pattern of bakery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of ferrocenyl substituted tetraphenylazadipyrromethane and Aza-BODIPY were designed and synthesized by the Pd-catalyzed Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction. The effect of the pyrrolic substituents on photophysical and electrochemical properties was explored. The results show substantial electronic communication between the ferrocene unit, and Aza-BODIPY core. The aza-dipyromethane and aza-BODIPY 3 – 6 are non-emissive in nature and their absorption maxima exhibit red shifted absorption compared to unsubstituted azabodipy. The computational calculation on Aza-BODIPY 5 and 6 was performed, which reveals that electron density transfers from ferrocene (donor) to azabodipy (acceptor) core and the photophysical properties are in good agreement with the computational data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indian agriculture is an economic symbiosis of crop and livestock production with cattle as the foundation. Sadly, the population of indigenous cattle (Bos indicus) is declining (8.94 % in last decade) and needs immediate scientific management. Genetic characterization is the first step in the development of proper management strategies for preserving genetic diversity and preventing undesirable loss of alleles. Thus, in this study we investigated genetic diversity and relationship among eleven Indian cattle breeds using 21 microsatellite markers and mitochondrial D loop sequence. Results: The analysis of autosomal DNA was performed on 508 cattle which exhibited sufficient genetic diversity across all the breeds. Estimates of mean allele number and observed heterozygosity across all loci and population were 8.784 ± 0.25 and 0.653 ± 0.014, respectively. Differences among breeds accounted for 13.3 % of total genetic variability. Despite high genetic diversity, significant inbreeding was also observed within eight populations. Genetic distances and cluster analysis showed a close relationship between breeds according to proximity in geographic distribution. The genetic distance, STRUCTURE and Principal Coordinate Analysis concluded that the Southern Indian Ongole cattle are the most distinct among the investigated cattle populations. Sequencing of hypervariable mitochondrial DNA region on a subset of 170 cattle revealed sixty haplotypes with haplotypic diversity of 0.90240, nucleotide diversity of 0.02688 and average number of nucleotide differences as 6.07407. Two major star clusters for haplotypes indicated population expansion for Indian cattle. Conclusions: Nuclear and mitochondrial genomes show a similar pattern of genetic variability and genetic differentiation. Various analyses concluded that the Southern breed 'Ongole' was distinct from breeds of Northern/ Central India. Overall these results provide basic information about genetic diversity and structure of Indian cattle which should have implications for management and conservation of indicine cattle diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indian agriculture is an economic symbiosis of crop and livestock production with cattle as the foundation. Sadly, the population of indigenous cattle (Bos indicus) is declining (8.94 % in last decade) and needs immediate scientific management. Genetic characterization is the first step in the development of proper management strategies for preserving genetic diversity and preventing undesirable loss of alleles. Thus, in this study we investigated genetic diversity and relationship among eleven Indian cattle breeds using 21 microsatellite markers and mitochondrial D loop sequence. Results: The analysis of autosomal DNA was performed on 508 cattle which exhibited sufficient genetic diversity across all the breeds. Estimates of mean allele number and observed heterozygosity across all loci and population were 8.784 ± 0.25 and 0.653 ± 0.014, respectively. Differences among breeds accounted for 13.3 % of total genetic variability. Despite high genetic diversity, significant inbreeding was also observed within eight populations. Genetic distances and cluster analysis showed a close relationship between breeds according to proximity in geographic distribution. The genetic distance, STRUCTURE and Principal Coordinate Analysis concluded that the Southern Indian Ongole cattle are the most distinct among the investigated cattle populations. Sequencing of hypervariable mitochondrial DNA region on a subset of 170 cattle revealed sixty haplotypes with haplotypic diversity of 0.90240, nucleotide diversity of 0.02688 and average number of nucleotide differences as 6.07407. Two major star clusters for haplotypes indicated population expansion for Indian cattle. Conclusions: Nuclear and mitochondrial genomes show a similar pattern of genetic variability and genetic differentiation. Various analyses concluded that the Southern breed ‘Ongole’ was distinct from breeds of Northern/ Central India. Overall these results provide basic information about genetic diversity and structure of Indian cattle which should have implications for management and conservation of indicine cattle diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The present investigation evaluated the effect of storage and packaging conditions on retention of ascorbic acid content of fenugreek leaves. Materials and methods: Fenugreek leaves (Trigonella Foenum- Graceum) with and without roots weighing 100 g were made and packed in perforated and non-perforated flexible consumer packets of 30 x 25 cm (750 sq cm) of four different types viz., LDPE -100 gauge, LDPE -200 gauge, PP-100 gauge and PP -200 gauge. For perforations 24 vents of 0.59 cm diameter were made covering an area of 1.87 sq. cm. These samples were stored at ambient (14-35° C, RH 50-60 per cent) and low temperature (0-5° C, RH 80-90 per cent) till acceptable. The samples were analyzed at regular intervals for ascorbic acid content using 2, 6 dichlorophenol indophenol method. Results and discussion: Fresh fenugreek leaves contained 51.4 mg/100g ascorbic acid. At lower temperature, fenugreek samples without root in non-perforated package (NPWORL) had a shelf life of six days and mean ascorbic acid retention of 80.95%. Packaging the samples with root (NPWRL) reduced the shelf life to four days period and retained 66.05% of ascorbic acid. Perforation in the packaging material also reduced the storage period to four days in both with (PWRL) and without root (PWORL) fenugreek samples. Fenugreek samples without and with roots stored at ambient temperature in non-perforated package (NPWORA and NPWRA) showed a maximum shelf life of two days with mean ascorbic acid retention of 69.99% and 56.47% respectively. A gradual decrease in the mean ascorbic acid content was observed at both low and ambient temperatures with the presence of roots and perforation in the packaging material. This decrease was observed to be significant at both low (p=0.004) and ambient (p= 0.055) temperatures. The ascorbic acid was also found to decrease with increase in days of storage at both low as well as ambient temperatures. The flexible packaging materials viz., LDPE and PP of 100 and 200 gauge did not show any significant difference in retention of ascorbic acid. Amongst interaction between perforations, roots, temperature, days of storage and packaging materials, the interactions between days of storage were found to be significant with perforations (p =0.023), root (p=0.053) and temperature (p= 0.00). Conclusions: Fenugreek samples stored without roots in nonperforated packaging material reflected significantly (p= 0.00) highest retention of ascorbic acid at low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are members of the TGF-β (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily, of which BMP4 is the most important due to its crucial role in follicular growth and differentiation, cumulus expansion and ovulation. Reproduction is a crucial trait in goat breeding and based on the important role of BMP4 gene in reproduction it was considered as a possible candidate gene for the prolificacy of goats. The objective of the present study was to detect polymorphism in intronic, exonic and 3′ un-translated regions of BMP4 gene in Indian goats. Nine different goat breeds (Barbari, Beetal, Black Bengal, Malabari, Jakhrana (Twinning>40%), Osmanabadi, Sangamneri (Twinning 20–30%), Sirohi and Ganjam (Twinning<10%)) differing in prolificacy and geographic distribution were employed for polymorphism scanning. Cattle sequence (AC_000167.1) was used to design primers for the amplification of a targeted region followed by direct DNA sequencing to identify the genetic variations. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were not detected in exon 3, the intronic region and the 3′ flanking region. A SNP (G1534A) was identified in exon 2. It was a non-synonymous mutation resulting in an arginine to lysine change in a corresponding protein sequence. G to A transition at the 1534 locus revealed two genotypes GG and GA in the nine investigated goat breeds. The GG genotype was predominant with a genotype frequency of 0.98. The GA genotype was present in the Black Bengal as well as Jakhrana breed with a genotype frequency of 0.02. A microsatellite was identified in the 3′ flanking region, only 20 nucleotides downstream from the termination site of the coding region, as a short sequence with more than nineteen continuous and repeated CA dinucleotides. Since the gene is highly evolutionarily conserved, identification of a non-synonymous SNP (G1534A) in the coding region gains further importance. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a mutation in the coding region of the caprine BMP4 gene. But whether the reproduction trait of goat is associated with the BMP4 polymorphism, needs to be further defined by association studies in more populations so as to delineate an effect on it. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study was undertaken to explore the genetic basis of caprine prolificacy and to screen indigenous goats for prolificacy associated markers of sheep in BMPR1B, GDF9 and BMP15 genes. To detect the associated mutations and identify novel allelic variants in the candidate genes, representative samples were collected from the breeding tract of indigenous goat breeds varying in prolificacy and geographic distribution. DNA was extracted and PCR amplification was done using primers designed or available in literature for the coding DNA sequence of candidate genes. Direct sequencing was done to identify the genetic variations. Mutations in the candidate genes associated with fecundity in sheep were not detected in Indian goats. Three non-synonymous SNPs (C818T, A959C and G1189A) were identified in exon 2 of GDF9 gene out of which mutation A959C has been associated with prolificacy in exotic goats. Two novel SNPs (G735A and C808G) were observed in exon 2 of BMP15 gene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report a genetic diversity study of Kherigarh cattle, a utility draught-purpose breed of India, currently declining at a startling rate, by use of microsatellite markers recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization. Microsatellite genotypes were derived, and allelic and genotypic frequencies, heterozygosities and gene diversity were estimated. A total of 131 alleles were distinguished by the 21 microsatellite markers used. All the microsatellites were highly polymorphic, with mean (± s.e.) allelic number of 6.24 ± 1.7, ranging 4-10 per locus. The observed heterozygosity in the population ranged between 0.261 and 0.809, with mean (± s.e.) of 0.574 ± 0.131, indicating considerable genetic variation in this population. Genetic bottleneck hypotheses were also explored. Our data suggest that the Kherigarh breed has not experienced a genetic bottleneck in the recent past. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep farming has been fundamental to many civilizations in the world and is practiced in India since antiquity. Several thousand years of adaptation to local environmental conditions and selective breeding have evolved 44 sheep breeds in India. They are paramount in terms of economic, scientific, and cultural heritage. Genetic characterization information is imperative for sustainable utilization and conservation of ovine heritage. In this study, the genetic diversity, differentiation, and structure of 11 indigenous sheep breeds from three different agro-ecological zones of India were explored with genomic microsatellite loci and mitochondrial DNA (D loop). The estimated diversity parameters indicated that populations retained high levels of genetic diversity (Na = 8.27 ± 0.17; Ho = 0.65 ± 0.01), which provides an optimistic viewpoint for their survival. However, significant inbreeding was also observed in the nine populations. Moderate genetic differentiation existed among the groups (FST = 0.129 ± 0.012), and most likely clusters existing in the dataset are seven. Phylogenetic clustering was in line with the geographical locations of sheep populations. Mitochondrial sequences revealed high haplotype diversity with the existence of maternal haplogroups A, B, and C, and signals of population expansion. Decreased genetic diversity and unique maternal lineage (C) in endangered Tibetan and Bonpala sheep breed, warrant their immediate scientific management. Overall, the quantitative data reported here on the extant variability, and genetic relationships among the Indian sheep breeds, provide critically important inputs that will be valuable for the decision-making process on their management, both for the conservation of endangered breeds, and formulation of breeding programs to check genetic erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First use of gold nanoparticle for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. • FA-b-PEG modified gold nanoparticle loaded with Sorafenib tosylate used as the drug delivery system. • Targeted delivery for vascular endothelial growth factor. • Biocompatible formulation displayed prevention of neovascularisation of the retinal blood vessels. Preparing a controlled release dosage form for specific locations within the body is one of the most challenging tasks in the present times. Moreover, green synthesis of metal nanoparticles is attaining greater significance because of their high biocompatibility and negligible toxicity. Gold nanoparticles, among them, are considered to be one of the best modes of drug delivery system for the treatment of various diseases. The excellent properties of gold nanoparticles make them a potential carrier for carrying and releasing drugs at the specified location in a controlled manner. In this research, gold nanoparticle (AuNPs) has been prepared by green synthesis for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. These AuNPs has been further modified with FA-b-PEG copolymer for the targeted delivery of the drug Sorafenib tosylate. The selected drug works on VEGF receptors in the region of retinal neovascularisation. The optimized dosage form prepared from gold chloride and ginger extract has been characterized. Histopathological studies as well as fundus photography has been used for the in-vivo characterisation of the prepared dosage form and it has been found that it can be quite an effective treatment for retinal neovascularisation in patients of diabetic retinopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Land use practices near river ecotones increase terrestrial inputs in rivers. • Macroinvertebrates population metrics have been used in river monitoring. • We used macroinvertebrate population metrics and lipid profiles to monitor landuse. • Fatty acids, alcohols and sterols profiles discerned difference in land use changes. • Riverine management should incorporate macroinvetrate metrices and lipid analysis. Land use practices near river ecotones result in numerous inputs of terrestrial materials into the river ecosystem. While macroinvertebrates population metrics is widely used in monitoring water quality changes, including those induced by humans, the use of lipid profiles in these organisms to monitor influence of land use practices is rather ignored. The aim of this study was to determine lipid profile in macroinvertebrates as potential indicator of human influence in Sagana River Basin, a high altitude tropical highland stream in Kenya. Sites were selected based on differences in land use activities delineated: forest with minimal land use activities, while cropland and saw milling areas had varying degrees of land use activities, with urban areas designated as sites with most human impacts. The macroinvertebrate metrics such as occurrence, abundance, diversity, percentage of oligochaetes and chironomids (%OC), as well as the Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (%EPT) index differed relative to land use changes. Variation in the Fatty Acids (FAs), alcohols and sterols in benthic macroinvertebrates was related to the land use activities along the stream. Evidently, streams traversing the urban areas had higher concentrations of Phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA), while streams traversing croplands had the highest neutral lipid fatty acids (NLFA). The dominance of monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) in forest, shortchain FAs (SCFAs) and polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) in croplands and longchain FAs (LCFAs) near urban areas clear indicate different sources of these materials, mainly from terrestrial sources. Individual fatty acids, alcohols and sterols profiles discerned difference in land use changes. The concentrations of SCFAs, MUFAs, LCFAs, TeoH, 27Δ5.22, 28Δ5,24, 28Δ5,22, 29Δ5,22 and 29Δ5,22 in the benthic macroinvertebrates samples were positively associated with OC%, EPT, total abundance and eH'. Meanwhile the concentration of phytol, AqOH, 27Δ5 and SCOH were associated with Simpson index. The current findings support the combination of macroinvertebrates species composition, abundance, diversity and lipids profiles to detect land use activities at the riverine scale. While implementing catchment-based river management and conservation activities should incorporate lipid analysis as a management tool. There is need for continuous monitoring of long term trends in land use activities on the changes in lipid content of the macroinvertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the acute toxicity, antidiabetic potential (in-vitro and in-vivo) of the Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso at fraction level. The plant was fractionated into different fractions, i.e., flavonoid fraction (OTFF), tannin fraction (OTTF), saponin fraction (OTSF). In-vitro alpha-amylase inhibition assay revealed that OTFF was found to be more potent than standard Acarbose. The plant fractions were evaluated by MTT assay at different concentrations ranging from 100 to 1000 µg/ml. All the fractions were further evaluated for their safety profile, and the biochemical, hematology and histopathology result exhibits that the OTFF fraction produces mild toxicity at organ level at a concentration of 2000 mg/kg in albino mice. The in-vivo antidiabetic study was carried out on Sprague-Dawley rats using high-fat diet (HFD) feeding streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic model, and the biochemical, histopathology research findings represent that OTFF at a concentration of 500 mg/kg, p.o. was found to be highly significant among all the fractions and found to be more potent than the standard Acarbose. LC–MS characterization of the bioactive fraction OTFF showed the presence of rutin with m/z 610.52 in 50.50% and Apigenin 7-O-6'' acetyl-glucoside with m/z 475.42 in 24.10%; from molecular docking study, it is predicted that the fraction primarily acts as an alpha-amylase inhibitor and PPAR gamma agonist. In conclusion, the plant's OTFF fraction acts as a potential therapeutic agent for Type II diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have an adverse impact on the quality of life (QOL) of the patient. Anxiety and depression have an association with QOL in COPD. However, this area has not been studied in the Indian subcontinent, especially in reference to the industrial population, which is vulnerable to such chronic disease. The present study aims to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression and its association with QOL in COPD patients. This study has also examined the other predictive factors associated with QOL in COPD. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 50 cases of COPD and an equal number of age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The severity of COPD was classified as per the global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease recommendation. Participants were assessed for anxiety, depression, and QOL on generalized anxiety disorder 7, Patient Health Questionnaire nine-item and WHOQOL (World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument)-BREF, respectively. Results: The study sample was predominantly of men (n = 47) with a mean age of 57 years. The mean score of QOL in all domains was significantly lower in COPD cases than control. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was 38% and 44%, respectively, among COPD cases. Odds ratios predicted more risk of developing anxiety and depression in COPD as the OR for depression and anxiety, with 95% confidence intervals were 3.2 (1.2-8.3 and 4.8 (1.8-12.8), respectively. QOL had a strong association with anxiety, depression, chronicity, and the severity of the disease. Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in COPD and appear to be strong predictors of poor QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pashmina, the world's finest natural fiber is derived from secondary hair follicles of Changthangi goats which are domesticated in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir by nomadic pastoralists. Complex epithelial-mesenchymal interactions involving numerous signal molecules and signaling pathways govern hair follicle morphogenesis and mitosis across different species. The present study involved transcriptome profiling of skin from fiber type Changthangi goats and meat type Barbari goats to unravel gene networks and metabolic pathways that might contribute to Pashmina development. In Changthangi goats, 525 genes were expressed at significantly higher levels and 54 at significantly lower levels with fold change >2 (padj < 0.05). Functional annotation and enrichment analysis identified significantly enriched pathways to be formation of the cornified envelope, keratinization and developmental biology. Expression of genes for keratins (KRTs) and keratin-associated proteins (KRTAPs) was observed to be much higher in Changthangi goats. A host of transcriptional regulator genes for hair follicle keratin synthesis such as GPRC5D, PADI3, HOXC13, FOXN1, LEF1 and ELF5 showed higher transcript abundance in Pashmina producing goats. Positive regulation of Wnt signaling pathway and negative regulation of Oncostatin M signaling pathway may be speculated to be important contributors to hair follicle development and hair shaft differentiation in Changthangi goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRDM9 is the sole hybrid sterility gene identified so far in vertebrates. PRDM9 gene encodes a protein with an immensely variable zinc-finger (ZF) domain that determines the site of meiotic recombination hotspots genome-wide. In this study, the terminal ZF domain of PRDM9 on bovine chromosome 1 and its paralog on chromosome 22 were characterized in 225 samples from five ruminant species (cattle, yak, mithun, sheep and goat). We found extraordinary variation in the number of PRDM9 zinc fingers (6 to 12). We sequenced PRDM9 ZF encoding region from 15 individuals (carrying the same ZF number in both copies) and found 43 different ZF domain sequences. Ruminant zinc fingers of PRDM9 were found to be diversifying under positive selection and concerted evolution, specifically at positions involved in defining their DNA-binding specificity, consistent with the reports from other vertebrates such as mice, humans, equids and chimpanzees. ZF-encoding regions of the PRDM7, a paralog of PRDM9 on bovine chromosome 22 and on unknown chromosomes in other studied species were found to contain 84 base repeat units as in PRDM9, but there were multiple disruptive mutations after the first repeat unit. The diversity of the ZFs suggests that PRDM9 may activate recombination hotspots that are largely unique to each ruminant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study attempts to investigate the differences in gene expression in longissimus thoracis muscles between sheep breeds acclimated to diverse environments. Changthangi sheep inhabits the cold arid plateau of Ladakh, at an altitude above 3000 m with prevalence of rarefied atmosphere. Muzzafarnagri sheep, on the other hand is found in the sub-tropical hot and humid plains at an altitude of about 250 m. Comparative transcriptomics was used to provide a molecular perspective of the differential adaptation of the two breeds. RNA sequencing data was generated from four biological replicates of the longissimus thoracis muscles from both breeds. The common genes expressed in both breeds were involved in muscle contraction and muscle fibre organization. The most significant pathways enriched in Changthangi muscles were glycogen metabolism, reduction of cytosolic Ca++ levels and NFE2L2 regulating anti-oxidant, while those in Muzzafarnagri were extracellular matrix organization and collagen formation. The hub genes identified in Changthangi were involved in hematopoiesis and HIF signaling pathway, suggesting the molecular acclimatization of Changthangi to the high altitude cold desert of Ladakh. The nodal genes discovered in Muzzafarnagri sheep were associated with the extracellular matrix which accentuates its significance in the development, growth and repair of muscles. The observed transcriptomic differences underscore the morphological and adaptive disparity between the two breeds. The candidate genes and pathways identified in this study will form the basis for future research on adaptation to high altitude and body size in small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mitochondrial DNA based genetic diversity was explored in the Indian dromedary and Bactrian camel populations. • The haplotype and nucleotide diversity in the Indian dromedaries was higher than the indices reported worldwide. • There was lack of genetic structuring in the Indian dromedaries based on geographical distribution. • Signals of population expansion were evident in the dromedary camels of India. • C. ferus , C. bactrianus and C. dromedarius revealed existence of separate mitochondrial lineages. Camels represent an important genetic resource of the desert ecosystems of India, with the dromedary and Bactrian camels inhabiting the hot and cold deserts, respectively. This study is the first attempt to investigate mitochondrial DNA based genetic diversity in the Indian camel populations and explores their relationship in the context of global genetic diversity of all the three large camel species (Camelus ferus, Camelus bactrianus and Camelus dromedaries). A mitochondrial DNA fragment encompassing part of cytochrome b gene, tRNAThr, tRNAPro and the beginning of the control region was amplified and analyzed in 72 dromedary and 8 Bactrian camels of India. Sequence analysis revealed that the haplotype and nucleotide diversity (Hd: 0.937 and π: 0.00431) in the Indian dromedaries was higher than the indices reported so far for the dromedary or Bactrian camels across the globe. The corresponding values in the Indian Bactrian camels were 1.000 and 0.00393, respectively. Signals of population expansion were evident in the dromedaries of India on the basis of mismatch analysis and Fu's Fs values. The analysis of molecular variance attributed most of the genetic variance (92.15%) between the dromedary, wild Bactrian and domestic Bactrian camels indicating separate maternal origins. The existence of three mitochondrial lineages in the old world camels (C. bactrianus : Lineage A; C. ferus : Lineage B and C. dromedarius : Lineage C) was also substantiated by the topology of the Median-Joining network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A medium-density SNP chip 182,122 SNPs was designed and validated for both Camelus bactrianus and Camelus dromedarius. • The estimated inter-marker distance of 14 kb, significantly enhances the coverage of the camel genome. • The medium-density chip has been successfully genotyped using 480 camel samples, with a call rate of 99% and 96% of the being highly reliable for genotyping. • With an enhanced genome coverage, accuracy and economic efficiency the Axiom_ MaruPri SNP chip is poised to advance genomic breeding research in camels. Camels play a crucial socio-economic role in sustaining the livelihoods of millions in arid and semi-arid regions. They possess remarkable physiological attributes which enable them to thrive in extreme environments, and provide a source of meat, milk and transportation. With their unique traits, camels embody an irreplaceable source of untapped genomic knowledge. This study introduces Axiom- MaruPri , a medium-density SNP chip meticulously designed and validated for both Camelus bactrianus and Camelus dromedarius. Comprising of 182,122 SNP markers, derived from the re-sequenced data of nine Indian dromedary breeds and the double-humped Bactrian camel, this SNP chip offers 34,894 markers that display polymorphism in both species. It achieves an estimated inter-marker distance of 14 Kb, significantly enhancing the coverage of the camel genome. The medium-density chip has been successfully genotyped using 480 camel samples, achieving an impressive 99 % call rate, with 96 % of the 182,122 SNPs being highly reliable for genotyping. Phylogenetic analysis and Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components yield clear distinctions between Bactrian camels and dromedaries. Moreover, the discriminant functions substantially enhance the classification of dromedary camels into different breeds. The clustering of various camel breeds reveals an apparent correlation between geographical and genetic distances. The results affirm the efficacy of this SNP array, demonstrating high genotyping precision and clear differentiation between Bactrian and dromedary camels. With an enhanced genome coverage, accuracy and economic efficiency the Axiom_ MaruPri SNP chip is poised to advance genomic breeding research in camels. It holds the potential to serve as an invaluable genetic resource for investigating population structure, genome-wide association studies and implementing genomic selection in domesticated camelid species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A systematic assessment of 18 potential reference genes (RGs) in 10 different ovine tissues was carried out to identify internal control genes for qPCR analysis. • Four algorithms: geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and Delta Ct (ΔCt), were employed to rank the stability of these RGs. • RefFinder was used for a comprehensive ranking, identifying ACTB, PPIB, BACH1 , and B2M as the most stable RGs. • RPS9, RPS15 , and PGK1 showed variable expression across different tissues. • Validation was performed using qPCR analysis of four target genes in the skin from two sheep breeds. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) is a widely-used technique for quantifying the expression of target genes across various tissues, as well as under different pathological and physiological conditions. One of the challenges associated with this method is the need to identify optimal reference genes (RGs) that maintain consistent expression levels under diverse experimental settings, thereby ensuring accurate biological interpretation. In this study, we conducted a thorough analysis of 18 candidate RGs (ACTB , BACH1 , B2M , GAPDH , HMBS , HPRT1 , PGK1 , PPIA , PPIB , RPLP0 , RPL19 , RPS9 , RPS15 , RPS28 , SDHA , TBP , UXT , and YWHAZ) across 10 ovine tissues (muscle, skin, kidney, liver, intestine, rumen, lung, testis, heart, and spleen) obtained from five individual sheep. We aimed to identify genes with stable expression across these tissues. A literature-based survey helped us shortlist candidate genes representing various functional classes from multiple livestock species. We employed four algorithms: geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and Delta Ct (ΔCt), to rank these genes based on their stability. A consistent trend in the rankings was observed across these different algorithms. RefFinder was then used for a comprehensive ranking, integrating the outputs from the various methods. ACTB, PPIB, BACH1 , and B2M emerged as the most stable RGs, while RPS9, RPS15 , and PGK1 displayed variable expression. We validated our findings through qPCR analysis of four target genes (ACTN2, CRYAB, DLK1 , and TRIM54) in the skin samples from two different sheep breeds. Based on these results, we recommend ACTB, PPIB, BACH1 , and B2M as reliable internal control genes for qPCR experiments involving diverse ovine tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Global skin transcriptome profiles of Changthangi and Muzzafarnagri sheep were compared. • Changthangi sheep had 149 up-regulated and 2139 down-regulated genes (Fold change > 1.5, FDR < 0.05). • Enriched pathways in Changthangi sheep involve melanin biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, and developmental pigmentation. • High expression of melanogenesis genes like TYR, TYRP1, DCT, SLC45A2, PMEL, and others was noted in the Changthangi breed. • The study reveals how genetic factors affect phenotypic traits and environmental adaptability in various sheep breeds. Changthangi sheep, which inhabit the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, are known for their fine fiber production and are characterized by grey skin and either black or white coats. In contrast, Muzzafarnagri sheep from the plains of Uttar Pradesh produce coarse wool and have white skin and coats. We conducted comparative global gene expression profiling on four biological replicates of skin from each breed. Notably, our analysis identified 149 up-regulated genes and 2,139 down-regulated genes in Changthangi sheep compared to Muzzafarnagri sheep, with a p-adjusted value (padj) of ≤0.05 and a Log2 fold change of ≥1.5. Gene Ontology analysis of the up-regulated genes revealed an enrichment of terms related to melanin biosynthesis and developmental pigmentation. Additionally, enriched KEGG pathways included tyrosine metabolism and metabolic pathways. Among the melanogenesis-related genes that exhibited higher expression in Changthangi sheep were TYR, TYRP1, DCT, SLC45A2, PMEL, MLANA, and OCA2. These findings confirm melanin's role in both the animals' black coat color and UV protection at high-altitude. Furthermore, we observed more pronounced expression of genes related to fiber quality, namely KRTAP6, KRTAP7, KRTAP13, and KRTAP2, in the fine wool-producing sheep from Ladakh. The results of the RNA sequencing were validated using real-time PCR on 10 genes governing fiber quality and coat color, with ACTB and PPIB serving as reference genes. In conclusion, our comparative skin transcriptome analysis of Changthangi and Muzzafarnagri sheep sheds light on the genetic differences associated with distinct phenotypic traits and environmental adaptability, offering valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Maternal genetic diversity was explored in Indian donkeys based on whole mitogenome and D-loop sequences. • The haplotype and nucleotide diversity in Indian donkeys were 0.989 and 0.00395, respectively. • Phylogenetic analysis revealed conformity of Indian donkeys to Nubian and Somali clades of African wild ass. • Indian donkeys shared haplotypes with donkeys from different countries. To contribute to the knowledge of maternal genetic diversity in domestic donkeys, this study investigated the mitochondrial DNA variations and analyzed the genetic structure in Indian donkeys based on 31 mitogenome sequences representing four breeds/populations (Agra, Halari, Kachchhi and Spiti). A total of 27 haplotypes with a haplotype diversity value of 0.989 were evident in the donkey genetic resources of India. The genetic differentiation between the investigated populations was evaluated using population pairwise F ST values, which showed maximum differentiation between Kachchhi and Halari donkeys. The Neighbor-Joining (NJ) tree based on the whole mitogenome sequence and the Median-Joining (MJ) network for partial D-loop fragment showed clear demarcation of Indian donkeys into Nubian and Somali clades, substantiating African maternal origin of Indian domestic donkeys. The topology of the MJ network excluded the Asian wild asses as the possible progenitors of Indian donkeys. Halari and Agra donkeys showed conformity exclusively to the Nubian lineage of the African wild asses. However, representation of both the Nubian and Somali lineages was observed in Kachchhi and Spiti donkeys. Comprehensive analysis carried out by retrieving D-loop sequences from different countries representing Asia, Africa, Europe and South America revealed existence of shared haplotypes across geographically isolated regions of the globe. This observation is indicative of utility of donkeys as pack animals across inter-continental trading routes during development of human civilizations. Our results represent a valuable contribution to maternal genetic diversity of Indian donkeys and provide insights into the worldwide spread of the species following initial domestication in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The transcriptional landscape of blood PBMCs of Anaplasma marginale infected cattle was compared with healthy controls. • A total of 676 up-regulated and 323 down-regulated genes were observed in the infected animals (Fold change >2, FDR < 0.05). • Many genes previously associated with parasite-borne diseases were profusely expressed in the infected animals. • A crosstalk of genes involved in host defense as well as parasite persistence was identified. Bovine anaplasmosis caused by Anaplasma marginale is a tick-borne disease of livestock with widespread prevalence and huge economic implications. In order to get new insights into modulation of host gene expression in response to natural infections of anaplasmosis, this study is the first attempt that compared the transcriptome profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of A. marginale infected and healthy crossbred cattle. Transcriptome analysis identified shared as well as unique functional pathways in the two groups. Translation and structural constituent of ribosome were the important terms for the genes abundantly expressed in the infected as well as healthy animals. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes revealed that immunity and signal transduction related terms were enriched for the up-regulated genes in the infected animals. The over-represented pathways were cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and signaling pathways involving chemokines, Interleukin 17 (IL17), Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF), Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NFKB) etc. Interestingly, many genes previously associated with parasite-borne diseases such as amoebiasis, trypanosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, and leishmaniasis were profusely expressed in the dataset of the diseased animals. High expression was also evident for the genes for acute phase response proteins, anti-microbial peptides and many inflammatory cytokines. Role of cytokines in mediating communication between immune cells was the most conspicuous gene network identified through the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. This study provides comprehensive information about the crosstalk of genes involved in host defense as well as parasite persistence in the host upon infection with A. marginale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of monomeric tetrahedral complexes of stoichiometry, [MX(HL)(Ph 3 P) 2 ] (In case of M = Cu, H 1 L, X = I, 1 ; Br, 2 ; Cl, 3 ; H 3 L, X = I, 4 ; Br, 5 ; Cl, 6 ; H 4 L, X = I, 7 ; Br, 8 ; Cl, 9 and in case of M = Ag, H 1 L, X = Cl, 13 ; Br, 14 ; H 2 L, X = Cl, 15 , Br 16 ; H 3 L, X = Cl, 17 , Br, 18 ) were synthesized by the reaction of copper (I) or silver (I) halides with indole-3-thiosemicarbazone (H 1 L) or 5-methoxy indole-3-thiosemicarbazone (H 2 L) or 5-methoxy indole- N 1 -methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone (H 3 L), whereas dimers of stoichiometry, [Cu 2 (μ-X) 2 (η 1 -S-H 2 L) 2 (Ph 3 P) 2 ] (X = I, 10 ; Br, 11 ; Cl, 12 ) were obtained by the reaction of copper (I) halides with indole- N 1 -methyl-3-thiosemicarbazone (HIntsc-N 1 -Me, H 2 L). The synthesized complexes were characterized using NMR ( 1 H and 13 C) and single crystal X-ray diffraction (H 2 L, 3 , 7 , 8 , 10 , 11 and 13 ) as well as elemental analysis. Anti- M. tuberculosis activity of ligands ( H 1 L - H 4 L ) and their metal complexes ( 1 – 18 ) were evaluated against M. tuberculosis H37RV strain ATCC 27294. It has been observed that there is unusual enhancement in anti TB activity of these ligands on complexation with copper (I) and silver (I). Molecular modelling studies in the active binding site are also giving complementary theoretical support for the experimental biological data acquired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Presence of heterocyclic rings on aldehyde/ketone facilitates the formation of respective selenosemicarbazone. • Geometry of ligands is confirmed by 2D NMR. • Excellent anti-Tubercular activity shown by synthesized compounds (H1L , H3L , H5L , H6L). Reaction of cyclohexanoneselenosemicarbazone with aldehydes and ketones containing heterocyclic rings (2-oxindole, 6-cholro-2-oxindole, 3-methyl-2-oxindole, isatin, 1-methyl isatin, furfural, pyrrole-2-carboxldehyde) in ethanol yielded, respective, selenosemicarbazones {2-oxindoleselenosemicarbazone (2-HOxsesc, H1L), 6-chloro-2-oxindole selenosemicarbazone (6-ClHOxsesc, H2L), 3-methyl-2-oxindole selenosemicarbazone (3-MeHOxses, H3L), isatinselenosemicarbazone (HIstsesc, H4L), 1-methyl isatinselenosemicarbazone (1-MeHIstsesc, H5L), 2-thiopheneselenosemicarbazone (2-Hthiosesc, H6L), 2-furfuralselenosemicarbazone (2-Hfursesc, H7L) and 2-pyrrole selenosemicarbazone (2-Hpysesc, H8L)}. However the similar reaction with aldehyde containing single aromatic ring (3-chlorobenzaldehyde and 4-chlorobenzaldehyde) formed 1, 2-bis(3-chlorobenzylidiene) hydrazine (A) and 1, 2-bis(4-chlorobenzylidiene) hydrazine (B) rather than selenosemicarbazone. All the synthesized compounds were characterized using IR and NMR (1H, 13C) spectroscopy. Structure of A and B were confirmed by single crystal X-ray crystallography. The synthesized selenosemicarbazones were tested for their anti-tubercular activities and H1L , H3L , H5L and H6L are found to exhibit excellent anti-TB activity. The experimental data will give an opportunity to examine their anti-tubercular activities and identify the lead molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to characterize the genetic variation present in lymphoxin A gene ( LTA gene) encoding for the lymphotoxin A protein also known as tumor necrosis factor beta, a cytokine produced by lymphocytes, known to be cytotoxic for a wide range of tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo , and, which is essential for normal immunological development; in 40 animals of 5 diverse Bos indicus Indian zebu cattle breeds. These breeds survive under the harsh and tough tropical climatic conditions of various parts of the Indian subcontinent. The LTA gene in the present study was observed to contain 33 SNPs and 3 small insertion/deletion polymorphisms. Four SNPs occurred in the coding regions of the gene viz. g.1327A > G and g.1400C > T in exon 2 and g.1840C > T and g.1942C > T in exon 3, of which the SNP g.1327A > G in exon 2 resulted in a non-synonymous amino acid change G38D. This amino acid change was however predicted not be affecting the protein function in any manner. The gene contained putative transcription factor binding sites for the c-Re1 and for Pax-4 transcription factors. A putative promoter region was also predicted on the reverse DNA strand from position 894 to 644. Several repeat elements and microsatellite repeats were detected to be occurring across the 3.2 kb LTA gene sequence. The study showed the occurrence of 40 genotypes and 48 most probable haplotypes. The genotypes at the observed SNP positions in the LTA gene were in near Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. A negative Tajima's D value that was not significant statistically at P > 0.10 indicated that the neutral mutation hypothesis could not be excluded. The genetic variations observed in the LTA gene in the present study have not been reported earlier and these could possibly be used as molecular markers for further studies involving association of the gene variability with disease resistance/tolerance traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The transcriptional landscape of milk somatic cells of Murrah buffaloes with clinical mastitis was compared with the healthy controls. • A total of 1014 up-regulated and 999 down-regulated genes were observed in the diseased buffaloes (Fold change > 2, FDR < 0.05). • The expression of major milk protein genes (CSN2, CSN1S1, CSN1S2, PAEP and LALBA) was higher in the healthy buffaloes. • Mastitic buffaloes had higher transcript abundance of many genes coding for anti-microbial proteins. Despite immense contribution of buffaloes as dairy species, limited studies have addressed the bubaline mastitis as compared to cattle. This was the first differential transcriptomic study investigating the alterations induced by clinical mastitis in buffalo milk relative to healthy controls. Comparative gene expression profiling of three biological replicates of each group identified 1014 up-regulated and 999 down-regulated genes in the diseased buffaloes (Fold change > 2, FDR < 0.05). Activation of immune and inflammatory responses were the most enriched GO terms in the mastitic animals, with higher transcript abundance of many genes coding for anti-microbial proteins such as β-defensins, perforin, granzymes, granulysin, cathelicidins etc. Analysis of the gene regulatory interactions of the up-regulated DEGs identified many hub genes that govern the cellular and macromolecular metabolic processes (E2F4, E2F1, RBL2, FOXM1, IRF1 and MYB). This study contributes to an insightful understanding of molecular mechanisms governing immune response of buffaloes to mastitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examines the secular trends in prevalence of overweight and obesity among urban Asian Indian adolescents in New Delhi (North India). The data were derived fromcross-sectional sampling of children, 3493 in year 2006 and 4908 in year 2009, aged 14-17 years studying in privately-funded and government-funded schools. Age, gender and Asian Indian-specific cut offs of body mass index (BMI) were used to define overweight and obesity. The prevalence of obesity increased significantly from 9.8% in 2006 to 11.7% in 2009 (p<0.01), whereas underweight decreased from 11.3% to 3.9% (p<0.001). There was a significantly higher risk of being overweight (OR 1.28; 95% CI, 1.15-1.42) and obese (OR 1.44; 95% CI, 1.24-1.66) in year 2009 than 2006, after adjusting for age, gender and type of school. Males and privately-funded school children had significantly higher increase in prevalence and risk of being overweight and obese over the three years. In conclusion, this study showed an increasing trend in prevalence of overweight and obesity in urban Asian Indian adolescents. More specifically, the study showed the association of this increasing trend of overweight and obesity prevalence with male gender and high socio-economic status, calling for an urgent need for immediate and targeted preventive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High prevalence of diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemias in people belonging to poor socio-economic strata in urban slums of northern India has been recorded recently. To assess whether this population has high levels of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), a cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, we investigated subjects belonging to poor socio-economic strata in urban slums and compared them to healthy control subjects from non-slum urban areas of New Delhi. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Subjects from a previously carried out cross-sectional study, Delhi Urban Slum Project (DUSP) were divided into two groups: Group-1 (n = 56) included subjects dwelling in slum area, having at least one risk factor (hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia), while group-2 (n = 60) consisted of subjects without any risk factor dwelling in the slum area. A third group (n = 29) of non-obese subjects without any risk factor living in non-slum urban area was included for comparison. Measurements included; body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (W-HR), four skinfolds, percentage body fat, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), serum lipids, and serum levels of sICAM-1. Results: Though statistically not significant, mean level of sICAM-1 was higher in group-1 (718.5 ± 232.8 ng/ml) as compared to the other groups. Of note, 35% of subjects in group-1 (p < 0.05 as compared to other two groups), and 25.3% of all subjects had levels of sICAM-1 in uppermost quartile (> 850 ng/ml). Partial correlation coefficients (R) of sICAM-1 levels with various parameters adjusted for age were statistically significant for BMI (R = 0.27, p < 0.05) in group-1; W-HR (R = 0.26, p < 0.05) and BMI (R = 0.19, p < 0.05) for group-2; and FPG (R = 0.17, p < 0.05) for all the subjects considered together. For females, the levels of sICAM-1 were significantly higher in the following: BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² (p = 0.04) and FPG >... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is the first study that compares gene expression profiles of cattle and buffalo milk somatic cells. • Enrichment of immune response related GO terms was observed in buffaloes. • Higher expression of genes for some host defense peptides was evident in buffaloes. • Genes for PI3K-Akt pathway showed higher expression in cattle milk. India is the world's largest milk producing country because of massive contribution made by cattle and buffaloes. In the present investigation, comprehensive comparative profiling of transcriptomic landscape of milk somatic cells of Sahiwal cattle and Murrah buffaloes was carried out. Genes with highest transcript abundance in both species were enriched for biological processes such as lactation, immune response, cellular oxidant detoxification and response to hormones. Analysis of differential expression identified 377 significantly up-regulated and 847 significantly down-regulated genes with fold change >1.5 in Murrah buffaloes as compared to Sahiwal cattle (p adj <0.05). Marked enrichment of innate and adaptive immune response related GO terms and higher expression of genes for various host defense peptides such as lysozyme, defensin β and granzymes were evident in buffaloes. Genes related to ECM-receptor interaction, complement and coagulation cascades, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and keratinization pathway showed more abundant expression in cattle. Network analysis of the up-regulated genes delineated highly connected genes representing immunity and haematopoietic cell lineage (CBL, CD28, CD247, PECAM1 and ITGA4). For the down-regulated dataset, genes with highest interactions were KRT18, FGFR1, GPR183, ITGB3 and DKK3. Our results lend support to more robust immune mechanisms in buffaloes, possibly explaining lower susceptibility to mammary infections as compared to cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Genetic diversity was explored in 33 breeds/populations of Indian goats using mitochondrial DNA markers. • The haplotype and nucleotide diversity indices of Indian goats were 0.998 and 0.028, respectively. • Indian goats belong to four maternal haplogroups; A, B, C and D. • There was no genetic structuring of goats on the basis of geographical distribution. Thirty four distinct breeds and many non-descript populations represent the caprine diversity of India. Genetic characterization of breeds is an essential element in designing breeding strategies and preserving genetic diversity. Considering the popularity of mitochondrial DNA for phylogeographical studies, this study involved an extensive analysis of population structure and genetic diversity of 28 defined breeds and 5 lesser known populations representing all four major agro-climatic zones of India using mitochondrial DNA markers. Analysis of hypervariable region 1 of mtDNA control region in 443 goats together with 22 reference sequences, delineated 341 distinct haplotypes belonging to four maternal haplogroups; A, B, C and D, with haplogroup A representing 90% of the individuals. The haplotype and nucleotide diversity indices of Indian goats were 0.998 ± 0.001 and 0.028 ± 0.001, respectively indicating abundant genetic variability. Estimates of population demographic parameters from mismatch analysis suggested a relatively good fit to the model of either spatial or demographic expansion of Indian goats. AMOVA analysis and topology of MJ network suggested lack of phylogeographic structure in domestic goats, which can be attributed to unstructured animal breeding, dwindling pastures and nomadic pastoralism. Genetic differentiation between goats from different agro-ecological regions was in accordance with their geographical propinquity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]