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The complete mitogenome of Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger) from Indian Himalayan region was assembled following the modified approach of mitochondrial baiting and mapping using the next-generation sequencing reads. The complete mitogenome was of 16,556 bp long, consisted of 37 genes that contained 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs and 1 control region. The complete base composition was 31.33% A, 15.24% G, 25.45%C, and 27.98%T and gene arrangement was similar to the other sub-species of Asiatic black bear. The relative synonymous codon usage analysis revealed the maximum abundance of Isoleucine, Tyrosine, Leucine and Threonine. The assembled mitogenome of U. t. laniger exhibited 99% similarity with the mitogenomes of Himalayan black bear available from Nepal and Tibetan Plateau-Himalaya region. The findings of the present study has proven low depth sequencing data, adequate and highly efficient in rapid recovering the mitochondrial genome by overcoming the conventional strategies of obtaining long-range PCR and subsequently drawing phylogenetic inferences.

Background: Low Birth Weight (LBW) (birth weight Materials and Methods: In this study, we compared our microarray datasets of LBW-Normal Birth Weight (NBW) newborns with two reference datasets to identify hematopoietic stem cells genes, and their differential expression in the LBW newborns, by hierarchical clustering algorithm using gplots and RcolorBrewer package in R. Results: Comparative analysis revealed 108 differentially expressed hematopoiesis genes (DEHGs), of which 79 genes were up-regulated, and 29 genes were down-regulated in LBW newborns compared to their NBW counterparts. Moreover, protein-protein interactions, functional annotation and pathway analysis demonstrated that the up-regulated genes were mainly involved in cell proliferation and differentiation, MAPK signaling and Rho GTPases signaling, and the down-regulated genes were engaged in cell proliferation and regulation, immune system regulation, hematopoietic cell lineage and JAK-STAT pathway. The binding of down-regulated genes (LYZ and GBP1) with growth factor GMCSF using docking and MD simulation techniques, indicated that GM-CSF has the potential to alleviate the repressed hematopoiesis in the term LBW newborns. Conclusion: Our study revealed that DEHGs belonged to erythroid and myeloid-specific lineages and may serve as potential targets for improving hematopoiesis in term LBW newborns to help build up their weak immune defense against life-threatening infections.

Diabetes mellitus Type 2 happens to be one of the most challenging health concerns in recent times and has spiked an alarming rise taking it into epidemic category. For management of this epidemic, sulphonylureas have been cornerstone in its treatment. The inefficiency and impairment of insulin to function has been compensated by treatment with anti-hyperglycemic agents (glibenclamide). However, this has been linked with cases of hypoglycemia. In order to rectify this, the present study focuses on development of better drug analogue. Sulphonylurea receptor (SUR1) was modeled with reliable efficiency and confirmed for structural validation. The docking results were strongly supported by molecular dynamics data and molecular mechanics-generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA) calculations. Successful docking of predicted sulphonylurea receptor with designed analogue (C24H26ClN3O4S) was illustrated with stronger binding energy (− 8.3 kcal/mol) having seven hydrophobic contacts and two hydrogen bonds (Ile103and Leu116) with the receptor protein. In case of SUR1-glibenclamide complex, a binding energy of − 7.1 kcal/mol was contributed from four hydrophobic contacts and three hydrogen bonds. The predicted molecule when scrutinized for pharmacophore and QSAR properties, like polar surface area, molar refractivity, oral bioavailability, solubility, transport across the gut, resistance to blood brain barrier and intestinal absorption, showed values mostly falling in prescribed range. It also highlighted that the inhibitor is non-toxic and non-carcinogenic property. Therefore, C24H26ClN3O4S can be used as a better and potent drug for treatment of diabetes Type 2 in comparison to glibenclamide.

In our previous study, we screened the anti-cancer properties of 10 benzothiazole derivatives in cervical cancer cell lines. In the present study, we aimed to delineate the mechanism of the apoptotic pathway (whether intrinsic or extrinsic) following the treatment of N-(4-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)phenyl)-5-chloro-2-methoxybenzamide (named as A-07) on cervical cancer cell lines. Cellular stress by reactive oxygen species was measured using DCFDA dye by flowcytometry. Protein expression and localization was checked by immunofluorescence for γH2A.X, TP53, and CASP-3. Expression profiles of BAX and BCL-2 was done by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and PARP-1 (Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1) by Western blot analysis. Bioinformatic studies were done using PDB websites, metaPocket 2.0 server, YASARA software and Discovery Studio 3.5 Visualizer. We demonstrate that the compound A-07 leads to ROS generation and double strand breaks in SiHa and C-33A cells. The induction of apoptosis in SiHa cells is associated with increased nuclear expression of the tumor suppressor protein, TP53. The shift in BAX/BCL-2 ratio, increased expression of Caspase-3 and cleaved Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 favour apoptotic signal in SiHa. In silico studies revealed that A-07 has inhibiting capabilities to the E6/E6AP/P53 complex. Our data suggest that treatment of A-07 causes p53 and caspase dependent apoptosis in HPV 16 infected SiHa cells.

Methyl jasmonate (MJ) displays antineoplastic potential against numerous neoplastic cells. However, several mechanistic aspects of its antineoplastic action against malignancies of T cell origin remain elusive. The present investigation reports the novel targets of MJ and mechanistic pathways of MJ-mediated antineoplastic and chemosensitizing action against tumor cells derived from murine T-cell lymphoma, designated as Dalton’s lymphoma (DL). The present study demonstrates that MJ directly docks to HIF-1α, hexokinase 2, and Hsp70 at prominent binding sites. MJ exhibits tumoricidal action against tumor cells via induction of apoptosis and necrosis through multiple pathways, including declined mitochondrial membrane potential, enhanced expression of ROS, altered pH homeostasis, an elevated level of cytosolic cytochrome c, and modulated expression of crucial cell survival and metabolism regulatory molecules. Additionally, this study also reports the chemosensitizing ability of MJ against T cell lymphoma accompanied by a declined expression of MDR1. This study sheds new light by demonstrating the implication of novel molecular mechanisms underlying the antitumor action of MJ against T-cell lymphoma and hence has immense translational significance.

Lymnaeidae/planorbidae snails are the intermediate hosts of Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica. Distribution of these vector snails explains the infection of fasciolosis as per geography and climatic condition of place. It also plays a vital role in the pattern of fasciolosis transmission. India is a large country, having varied climatic conditions in different states, so that in the present chapter distribution and habitat of snails in different states of India is given, which represents the statewise consolidated information to explore the vector snail presence.

India is a large country having three seasons that is winter, summer, and monsoon, and seven distinct climatic zones. In the present chapter, constrain of fasciolosis caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica in different climatic zones is discussed as per earlier studies of different workers in India. Fasciola hepatica is only found in temperate/subtemperate region and mountain climate of India, whereas Fasciola gigantica is found in all the climatic zones. Percent fasciolosis infection rate is given in all the states of India. Infection of fasciolosis in cattle across the India is between 1.69% and 94%.

Aim: Our objective was to identify a more potent curcumin derivative with specific activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Materials & methods: A total of 21 curcumin derivatives were synthesized and detailed bio-evaluation was carried out including determination of static/cidality, synergy with front-line antituberculosis drugs and determination of efficacy in the murine model of M. tuberculosis infection. Results: We identified CPMD-6d dihydrochloride exhibiting concentration-dependent bactericidal activity against M. tuberculosis (MIC 2 μg/ml), even against drug-resistant strains. In addition, it synergizes with front-line antituberculosis drugs as well as significantly reduces bacterial load in mice lungs and spleen at 25 mg/kg as compared with ethambutol at 100 mg/kg. Conclusion: Taken together, CPMD-6d dihydrochloride exhibits all properties to be positioned as a novel molecule of interest for treatment of tuberculosis. Graphical abstract: [Formula: see text]

The present research manuscript demonstrates the chemiresistive sensing of volatile ammonia from the soil over zinc oxide encapsulated polypyrrole (ZnO-en-PPy) composite prepared by in-situ chemical polymerization technique using ferric chloride as a polymerizing agent. The observed analytical result revealed the formation of nanocomposite with optimized crystallinity, improved thermal stability, and responsive electrical conductivity against ammonia concentration. Further, a thin film of the composite was casted on a glass rod to prepare a portable resistive type ammonia sensor for atmospheric and volatile ammonia from the soil with observed sensing parameters i.e. sensitivity range of 1 ppm–100 ppm, sensitivity 0.4947 kΩ-ppm−1, response time 45 s, recovery time 55 s, and stability for 90 days.

Background Adipocyte dysfunction, obesity and associated metabolic disorders are of prime healthcare concern worldwide. Among available medications, natural products and inspired molecules hold 40% space in clinically prescribed medicines. In queue, this study overcomes the drawback of curcumin's low bioavailability with potent anti-adipogenic and anti-dyslipidemic activity. Methods To evaluate the role of CDPP on adipocyte differentiation, 3T3-L1 adipocytes were used as an in-vitro model. Flow cytometry was performed for cell cycle analysis. Syrian golden hamsters were used to study pharmacokinetic profile and dyslipidemic activity exhibited by CDPP. Result CDPP was found to be a potent inhibitor of adipogenesis in-vitro. It blocked mitotic clonal expansion by causing cell cycle arrest. CDPP showed marked improvement in gastrointestinal stability and bioavailability in-vivo as compared to curcumin. Administration of CDPP (100 mg/kg) significantly improved HFD induced dyslipidemic profile in hamsters and activated reverse cholesterol transport machinery. Conclusion CDPP could be used as a potential drug candidate against adipogenesis and dyslipidemia with enhanced gastrointestinal stability and bioavailability.

The present study was undertaken to understand the physiological significance of the existence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS)/nitric oxide (NO) system in fish ovary. For this, two doses of NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 25 µg and 50 µg) and NOS inhibitor, N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 50 µg and 100 µg)/100 g body weight were administered during the two reproductive phases of reproductive cycle of theClarias batrachus. During the late-quiescence phase, high dose ofl-NAME decreased the NO, testosterone, 17β-estradiol, vitellogenin contents in serum and ovary and activities of 5-ene-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (3β-HSD) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (17β-HSD) in ovary, whereas higher dose of SNP increased these parameters.l-NAME also reduced oocytes-I but increased perinucleolar oocytes in the ovary, whereas SNP treatment increased the number of advanced oocytes (oocytes-I and II) than the perinucleolar oocytes when compared with control ovary. During the mid-recrudescence phase, both doses of SNP increased NO, testosterone, 17β-estradiol and vitellogenin in serum and ovary; however,l-NAME treatment lowered their levels. The activities of ovarian 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD were also stimulated by SNP, butl-NAME suppressed their activities compared to the control. The SNP-treated ovaries were dominated by oocyte-II and III stages, whereasl-NAME-treated ovary revealed more perinucleolar oocytes and oocytes-I and practically no advanced oocytes. Expression of endothelial NOS (eNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS) and neuronal NOS (nNOS) was augmented by the SNP and declined byl-NAME treatments as compared to the control. This study, thus, provides distinct evidence of NO-stimulated steroidogenesis, vitellogenesis and folliculogenesis in fish.

In an earlier study we have demonstrated reproductive-stage dependent, cell specific existence of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)/NO system in testis of the catfish, Clarias batrachus. The present study is an extension to examine the role of NO in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis through in vivo administration of a NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and a NOS inhibitor, N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) during the quiescence and recrudescence phase of the reproductive cycle of the catfish. Effects of these chemicals were assessed on the gonadosomatic index (GSI), levels of circulating & testicular testosterone, NO, activities of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) in testis, expression of different NOS isoforms and testicular morphology in relation to spermatogenesis. SNP treatment increased the GSI, testicular and circulating testosterone & NO, activities of testicular 3β-HSD & 17β-HSD, and expression of NOS isoforms. It also increased the area and perimeters of interstitium and seminiferous tubules in the testis. It accelerated the spermatogenesis, as was evident from the large number of spermatids/spermatozoa in seminiferous tubules and very few spermatogonial cells/primary spermatocytes in comparison to the control testis. On the contrary, l-NAME significantly suppressed GSI, testosterone & NO levels in serum and testis, and activities of testicular 3β-HSD & 17β-HSD. It also suppressed the expression of NOSs in testis. Though l-NAME did not alter the spermatogonial mitotic proliferation with the advancement of testicular recrudescence, it halted the progression of spermatogenesis (meiotic division and spermatozoa formation) as was clear from the increase in spermatogonial cells and very few advanced germ cells in the seminiferous tubules in l-NAME treated testis, compared to the control testis. The above noted effects were highly pronounced in the recrudescing catfish. Their effects were very marginal and at a particular dose levels of SNP and l-NAME in the quiescent testis. This study distinctly provides evidence of pro-steroidogenic and pro-spermatogenic role of NO. This study also demonstrates the existence of eNOS in fish testis for the first time. The positive feedback control of expression of all isoform of NOS in testis by NO is also noteworthy.

Fasciolosis is a water and food-borne disease caused by the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica. This disease is widespread in different parts of the world. Lymnaeidae and Planorbidae snails are the intermediate hosts of these flukes. Snail population management is a good tool to control fasciolosis because gastropods represent the weakest link in the life-cycle of trematodes. Chlorophyll can be extracted from any green plant. Chlorophyllin was prepared from spinach in 100% ethanol by using different types of chemicals. The chlorophyll obtained from spinach was transformed into water-soluble chlorophyllin. In the present paper, toxicity of chlorophyllin against the snail Lymnaea acuminata was time and concentration dependent. The toxicity of extracted and pure chlorophyllin at continuous 4 h exposure of sunlight was highest with lethal concentration (LC50) of 331.01 mg/L and 2.60 mg/L, respectively, than discontinuous exposure of sunlight up to 8 h with LC50 of 357.04 mg/L and 4.94 mg/L, respectively. Toxicity of extracted chlorophyllin was noted in the presence of different monochromatic visible lights. The highest toxicity was noted in yellow light (96 h, LC50 392.77 mg/L) and the lowest in green light (96 h, LC50 833.02 mg/L). Chlorophyllin in combination with solar radiation or different wavelength of monochromatic visible lights may become a latent remedy against the snail L. acuminata. It was demonstrated that chlorophyllin was more toxic in sunlight. Chlorophyllin is ecologically safe and more economical than synthetic molluscicides which have the potential to control the incidence of fasciolosis in developing countries.Fasciolosis merupakan penyakit bawaan air dan makanan yang disebabkan oleh fluk hati

Background: Homoeopathic drug proving is an integral part of Homoeopathic System of Medicine. It is the first step in finding out the pathogenetic powers of a drug. Objective: To elicit the pathogenetic response to Allium sativum in homoeopathic potencies on healthy human provers. Materials and Methods: A multi-center randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was conducted at two centers of the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH). Proving was conducted on 33 healthy provers after the pretrial medical examination. All the provers were given 12 doses of placebo divided in 4 doses/day for 3 days during the first phase of the trial. After randomization, in the intervention group (21 provers), Allium sativum (A. sativum) was proved in 6C and 30C potencies, in two phases. In the placebo group, 12 provers were administered placebo in the same manner. The symptoms manifested during the trial period were noted down by the provers and then elaborated by the proving masters. The generated data on A. sativum were then compiled and analyzed at proving-cum-data processing cell at CCRH headquarters. Results: Out of 21 provers who were on actual drug trial, only nine provers manifested symptoms. Drug was able to manifest symptoms in both the potencies, in more or less every part of the body. Conclusion: The pathogenetic response elicited during the proving trial expands the scope of use of the drug A. sativum and will benefit the research scholars and clinicians. The generated symptoms of this drug will carry more value when verified clinically.

Maternal type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) may affect fetal development by altering the gene expression profile of the umbilical cord. The present study aimed to explore the T1DM-induced gene expression changes in the fetal umbilical cord. The raw gene expression profiles (ID: GSE51546) of umbilical cord tissue obtained from six normal mothers (non-diabetic) and six type 1 diabetic mothers were used to identify the differentially expressed genes. Genes that correspond to official gene symbols were selected for protein-protein interaction (PPI) and sub-network construction (combined score > 0.4). Functional annotation for Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analysis were performed for genes involved in networking. A total of 110 differentially expressed genes were identified of which 38 were up-regulated while 72 were down-regulated. Only 37 genes were identified to significantly interact with each other. Hub genes including HSPA4, KCTD6, UBE2G1, FBXL19, and EHMT1 were up-regulated while KBTBD7, TRIM32, and NUP were down-regulated. T1DM had a major effect on the expression of genes involved in cellular death and differentiation, cell signaling and communication, protein modification and regulation of GTPase activity. Total 27 pathways were enriched and genes related to Wnt signaling, VEGF signaling, inflammation mediated by chemokine and cytokine signaling pathways, FGF signaling pathways and GnRH receptor pathways were found significantly affected by T1DM. Our results suggest that the T1DM environment seems to alter umbilical cord gene expression involved in the regulation of pathophysiology of the diabetic mother which in turn may lead to long-term consequences in various tissues in infants. This study provides insight into the molecular mechanism underlying the adverse pregnancy outcomes of maternal T1DM.

Eleven types of yellow sticky traps (15x30 cm) made up of different base and sticky materials were evaluated to determine their persistence and attractancy for greenhouse whitefly Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) in tomato under polyhouse during summer, rainy and winter cropping seasons. Base materials like yellow coloured thick paper and yellow painted galvanized iron sheet, and sticky materials like castor oil, mustard oil, linseed oil and white lithium grease were evaluated.The cumulative adult catches on traps evaluated remained significantly maximum (594.3 to 1118.0) during rainy season. Use of paper sheet smeared with different pasting materials resulted in significantly more trap catches, compared to the use of iron sheet. Irrespective of the base material, traps smeared with castor oil proved significantly superior followed by that of mustard oil, linseed oil and white lithium grease. The cost of traps ranged from Rs 165 to Rs 2025/cropping season of 140 days/250 m2 polyhouse; with the minimum and maximum being for the white lithium grease pasted on plastic sheet and commercial trap, respectively. The trap with castor oil pasted on paper sheet was good in efficacy but not cost effective. Trap with mustard oil pasted on paper sheet was one of the efficacious traps, and also cost effective.

Diclofenac is a potent NSAID of clinical choice, which is widely used for containing inflammation. Moreover, recent experimental evidences overwhelmingly substantiate its antineoplastic potential. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of diclofenac's anticancer activity remain poorly understood. Neoplastic cells display reprogrammed metabolic features, which are manifested and regulated by a complex networking of molecular pathways. However, the effect of diclofenac on tumor cell metabolism are not yet clearly deciphered. Hence, the present investigation was carried out to identify and characterize key diclofenac targets of tumor metabolism, cell survival and chemoresistance. The interactions of diclofenac with such targets was analysed by PatchDock and YASARA (Yet Another Scientific Artificial Reality Application). The docking ability of diclofenac with its targets was based on analysis of dissociation constant (Kd), geometric shape complementarity score (GSC score), approximate interface area (AI area) and binding energy. The findings of this investigation reveal that diclofenac is capable of interacting with all of the selected molecular targets. Prominent interactions were observed with GLUT1, MCT4, LDH A, COX1, COX2, BCRP/ABCG2, HDM2/MDM2 and MRP1 compared to other targets. Interactions were of noncovalent nature involving ionic, hydrophobic interactions, Van der Waals forces and H-bonds, which varied depending on targets. This study for the first time, characterizes the nature of molecular interactions of diclofenac with selected targets involved in cancer cell metabolism, pH homeostasis, chemosensitivity, cell signalling and inflammation. Hence, these findings will be highly beneficial in optimizing the utility of diclofenac in development of novel cancer therapeutics.

Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209), a congener of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), is used as flame retardant and affects thyroid homeostasis. Thyroid hormones (THs) play crucial role in Leydig cell differentiation and steroidogenesis during early life. Present study examined the effect of maternal BDE-209 exposure during lactation on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in relation to thyroid hormone receptor alpha 1 (THRα1) and possible mechanism(s) of its action in prepubertal Parkes mice offspring. Lactating female Parkes mice were orally gavaged with 500, and 700 mg/kg body weight of BDE-209 in corn oil from postnatal day (PND) 1 to PND 28. Lactating mothers and male pups were sacrificed on PND 28. Maternal BDE-209 exposure markedly affected testicular histopathology, steroidogenesis and germ cell dynamics with downregulated expressions of various steroidogenic markers in mice offspring. Serum THs levels were markedly reduced in both pups and lactating mothers compared to controls. Expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and THRα1 also deceased in testes of BDE-209-exposed mice offspring. In silico analysis by molecular docking was performed successfully for steroidogenic facor-1 (SF-1) and THRα1 with BDE-209 and T3. Maternal BDE-209 exposure during lactation affects testicular steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis and expression of THRα1 in prepubertal mice offspring through downregulation of SF-1.

Kalsilite glass–ceramic composites have been prepared by a mechanochemical synthesis process for dental veneering application. The aim of the present study is to prepare bioactive kalsilite composite material for application in tissue attachment and sealing of the marginal gap between fixed prosthesis and tooth. Mechanochemical synthesis is used for the preparation of microfine kalsilite glass–ceramic. Low temperature frit and bioglass have been prepared using the traditional quench method. Thermal, microstructural and bioactive properties of the composite material have been examined. The feasibility of the kalsilite to be coated on the base commercial opaque as well as the bioactive behavior of the coated specimen has been confirmed. This study indicates that the prepared kalsilite-based composites show similar structural, morphological and bioactive behavior to that of commercial VITA VMK95 Dentin 1M2.

Nanocrystalline kalsilite material was synthesized via a gel-trapped coprecipitation for dental veneering applications. The prepared kalsilite powder was further mixed with a separately processed low temperature frit (LTF), in different weight ratio to optimize its coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). These mixes were analyzed for their flexural strength and surface morphology. The cytocompatibility of mixes was investigated with reference to their effect on human buccal epithelial cells (SCC-25). The flexural strength and CTE values of prepared kalsilite have been found to be comparable to the values obtained for a commercial opaque VMK 95 1M2 (product no. B333250; VITA Zahnfabrik H. Rauter GmbH KG Postfach 1338 D-79704 Bad Sackingen, Germany). This confirmed the feasibility of prepared kalsilite material for dental veneering application. Kalsilite glass-ceramic materials caused moderate levels of apoptosis in SCC-25 cells at higher concentrations and were also tolerable by human RBC as evaluated from hemolytic assay. Human buccal epithelial cells were tolerant to kalsilite glass-ceramic materials at lower concentrations although higher concentration (500 μg/mL) caused moderate damages in proliferative capacity of SCC-25. The improved mechanical and biological properties of the prepared kalsilite confirmed its potential use in dental veneering.

Nano high alumina cement was prepared by an auto combustion method which was a self-propagating high temperature synthesis. Metal nitrate precursors were used in this process and thermal reactions were done at 1000 °C. Prepared high alumina cement was tested for its cementing properties and mechanical behavior. These properties were compared with commercialized CA-25 C high alumina cement. In a separate process, cordierite was mechanochemically synthesized by mixing proper amounts of kaolin, talc and gibbsite and then grinding in a high-speed planetary mill to reduce the initial particle sizes of mixes. The prepared mixes were calcined at different temperatures. In order to study the effects of process variables, the powders were analyzed by XRD and SEM. Based on XRD results it was concluded that the cordierite mixture was amorphous to XRD by high energy grinding of the mixes at 600 rpm for 30 min. Cordierite was successfully produced at temperatures as low as 1150 °C. Low cement castables were formulated introducing the prepared HAC as a binder phase in the cordierite matrix with further addition of silicon carbide for enhancing mechanical properties. Formulated LCC briquettes were analyzed for their physico-mechanical properties including bulk density, apparent porosity, cold crushing strength and cold modulus of rupture.

Fasciolosis is a parasitic disease caused by Fasciola gigantica. The freshwater snail Lymnaea acuminata is the intermediate host of F. gigantica which cause endemic fasciolosis in the northern part of India. To investigate larvicidal activity of pure and laboratory extracted pheophorbide a (Pa) against cercaria larvae of F. gigantica, data were analyzed in different spectra of visible light, sunlight, and laboratory conditions. Photostimulation of chlorophyll derivative pheophorbide a (Pa) caused time and concentration dependent larvicidal activity against cercaria larvae of F. gigantica. Larvicidal activity of pure Pa under 650 nm and 400–650 nm (8 h LC50 0.006 mg/10 mL) was more pronounced than extracted Pa under same irradiations (650 nm LC50 0.12 mg/10 mL, 400–650 nm LC50 0.14 mg/10 mL). Lowest toxicity of pure (8 h LC50 0.14 mg/10 mL) and extracted Pa (8 h LC50 1.25 mg/10 mL) was noted under 400 nm. Pa was found to be toxic in laboratory conditions also. The results presented in this paper indicate that pheophorbide a possess potential larvicidal activity against Fasciola gigantica larvae in different wavelengths of visible light, sunlight, and laboratory conditions.

Background Studies on stemmed primary shoulder arthroplasty have shown transfusion rates of up to 38%. The present study aimed to evaluate blood loss and the need for blood transfusion after primary humeral and total shoulder surface replacement. Materials and methods Patients undergoing both primary humeral head ( n = 20) and total shoulder ( n = 63) resurfacing were included. The mean drop in haemoglobin levels on the first postoperative day and the need for transfusion were recorded and analyzed against the patient's age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, type of surgery performed, pre-operative haemoglobin and the use of tranexamic acid. Results Only one patient in the entire series (1.2%) required blood transfusion postoperatively, following total shoulder resurfacing. There were statistically significant differences between the two groups with respect to estimated blood loss ( p = 0.005), duration of surgery ( p < 0.0005) and haemoglobin drop ( p < 0.0005), all in favour of the humeral head resurfacing group. The type of surgery was the only independent factor significantly affecting the reduction of haemoglobin levels postoperatively ( p < 0.0005). Conclusions Surface replacement of the shoulder appears to be associated with reduced blood loss, leading to a very low need for blood transfusion.

Snail Lymnaea acuminata is the intermediate host of liver fluke Fasciola gigantica, which cause endemic fasciolosis among cattle population of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Control of snail population by molluscicides is one of the effective methods to control fasciolosis. In the present study molluscicidal activity of tertiary combination of freeze-dried urine of different Indian breeds of cow Sahiwal, Geer and Tharparkar with Annona squamosa seed powder, Ferula asafoetida root latex, Azadirachta indica oil and Camellia sinensis leaves have been tested against Lymnaea acuminata. It was noted that the toxicity of tertiary combination (1:1:5) of cow urine kept for 15 days in sunlight or laboratory condition with different plant products were highly toxic against snail L. acuminata. 96 h LC50 of tertiary combinations with Sahiwal urine kept for 15 days in sunlight with A. squamosa, F. asafoetida, A. indica oil and C. sinensis were 35.47 mg L(-1), 37.13 mg L(-1), 33.66 mg L(-1), respectively higher than the Geer and Tharparkar. The toxicity of Sahiwal urine kept for 15 days in laboratory condition with A. squamosa and C. sinensis (96 h LC50 28.28 mg L(-1)) was more potent than the all other combinations. Cow urine in combination with plant product can be used for effective control of snail.

Coracoclavicular joint (CCJ) is a rare anomalous joint occasionally found between the coracoid process of scapula and the conoid tubercle of clavicle. The articulation has been extensively studied by means of anatomical, osteological and radiological investigations. Most cases are discovered incidentally, with the symptomatic variety remaining an exceptional rarity. Our aim was to review all reported symptomatic CCJ to increase the level of evidence and formulate a treatment algorithm to aid clinicians in management planning.A thorough literature search was performed, and data from 17 (n = 17) symptomatic cases of CCJ were analysed.CCJ is a rare finding and mostly an incidental discovery, which is rarely symptomatic. However, when symptomatic, the most common symptom is shoulder pain. The mean age at presentation is 42 years, with a male:female ratio of 1.4:1. Brachial plexus involvement was the most common pathophysiological explanation provided. First-line treatment was conservative, with a very low success rate of 5.9%. Surgical intervention in the form of excision of anomalous joint by osteotomy had success rate of 100%.Symptomatic CCJ is rare, and its rarity leads to lack of awareness in the general orthopaedic community. When symptomatic, CCJ may lead to delayed diagnosis or inappropriate management due to lack of evidence and poor description in most orthopaedic textbooks. Despite its low success rate, conservative treatment is advocated before embarking upon surgical intervention.

The presence of nickel in aquatic systems due to discharge of industrial effluents is of concern because of its toxic and nonbiodegradable nature. Its removal from water and wastewater is mandatory. Though activated carbon has been effective in removing metallic species including nickel from water and effluents, its high cost limits its large scale application to developing nations. The present paper addresses the removal of nickel from aqueous solutions by alumina nano particles. The adsorbent, nano alumina powder, was synthesized in the laboratory and was characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The BET surface area and porosity of nanosized alumina powder were found to be 78.79 m2 g−1 and 0.51, respectively. The initial concentration of nickel, agitation speed, and contact time were found to affect the removal of nickel from aqueous solutions. Kinetic studies were performed and pseudofirst order, second...

Every month during the year 2006–2007, the 24, 48, 72 and 96 h LC50values of a molluscicide, cypermethrin, were determined for a snailLymnaea acuminata, with concomitant estimation of levels of temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide and electrical conductivity, both in control and test water. On the basis of a 24 h toxicity assay, it was noted that LC50values of 10.39, 10.90 and 11.19 mg l− 1during the months of May, June and July, respectively, were most effective in killing the snails, while the molluscicide was least effective in the month of January, when its 24 h LC50was 65.84 mg l− 1.There was a significant positive correlation between LC50of cypermethrin and levels of dissolved O2/pH of water in corresponding months. On the contrary, a negative correlation was observed between LC50and dissolved CO2/temperature of test water in the same months. In order to ascertain that such a relationship between toxicity and abiotic factors is not coincidental, the nervous tissue of the snail was assayed for the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to sublethal concentrations (40% and 80%) of 24 h LC50during each of the 12 months of the same year. The findings confirmed that abiotic factors indeed influence toxicity of cypermethrin in the snail. A significant positive rank correlation between AChE, ACP and ALP activity did exist following exposure to the corresponding sublethal concentrations. Moreover, there was a maximum inhibition of 61.29 and 76.16% of AChE and ACP, respectively, in snails exposed to 80% of the 24 h LC50in the month of May. A similar treatment caused a maximum inhibition of 70.53% of ALP activity in the month of June. This work shows conclusively that the best time to control the snail population with cypermethrin is during the months of May and June.

Gymnema sylvestre R.Br., a medicinal plant that is indigenous to India, grows wild in the tropical forests of central, western and southern parts of India and in the tropical areas of Africa, Australia, and China. The plant is listed in the Indian pharmaceutical codex and is popular in Indian systems of traditional medicine, such as Sidha, Unani, and Ayurveda, where the plant leaves are used to treat type II (adult-onset) diabetes (Madhumeha). Due to a lack of successful agrotechniques, however, the plant has become vulnerable and therefore, the different varieties and populations growing in various phytogeographical regions merit attention of the research community. This article elucidates the botany, biochemistry, pharmacology, and medicinal uses of the plant and suggests a strategy for conservation of the species while emphasizing the need for further research.

Purpose. To evaluate the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Methods. Medical records of 30 women and 10 men aged 18 to 68 (mean, 38) years who presented with unilateral (n=35) and bilateral (n=5) TOS and underwent 42 surgical decompressions of the right (n=23) and left (n=19) sides were reviewed. MRI findings were compared with intra-operative findings to evaluate the diagnostic value of MRI. Results. MRI findings correlated poorly with intraoperative findings. Of the 42 cases, MRI and intraoperative findings were matched in 17 and not matched in 25. MRI appeared normal but intraoperative findings were in fact positive for TOS in 23 of 24 cases. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI in diagnosing TOS were 41% and 33%, respectively, whereas its positive and negative predictive values were 89% and 4%, respectively. Conclusion. Sensitivity and specificity of MRI in diagnosing TOS are low. Diagnosis should be based on a holistic approach including history, clinical examination, and radiological findings.

Fasciolosis is an important cattle and human disease caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica. One of the possible methods to control this problem is to interrupt the life cycle of Fasciola by killing its larva (redia and cercaria) in host snail. Molecular identification of cercaria larva of F. gigantica was done by comparing the nucleotide sequencing with adult F. gigantica. It was noted that nucleotide sequencing of cercaria larva and adult F. gigantica were 99% same. Every month during the year 2011-2012, in vivo treatment with 60% of 4 h LC50 of phyto cercaricides citral, ferulic acid, umbelliferone, azadirachtin and allicin caused significant inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and cytochrome oxidase activity in the treated cercaria larva of F. gigantica. Whereas, activity of both enzymes were not significantly altered in the nervous tissues of vector snail Lymnaea acuminata exposed to same treatments. Maximum reduction in AChE (1.35% of control in month of June) and cytochrome oxidase (3.71% of control in the month of July) activity were noted in the cercaria exposed to 60% of 4 h LC50 of azadirachtin and allicin, respectively.

Nitric oxide, a gaseous molecule, is produced during the conversion of arginine to citrulline by the action of NOS isoforms (eNOS, iNOS or nNOS). Role of NO in regulation of mammalian reproduction is well established; however, practically no report is available on fishes. Hence, in the present study, expression of all three isoforms of NOS was worked out in the ovary of Clarias batrachus immunohistochemically during different phases of its reproductive cycle and its relation with ovarian activities. No immunoreactivity of eNOS was observed in the ovary of C. batrachus during the late-quiescence and early-recrudescence phases. While during the recrudescence phase (April and May) it expressed intensely in thecal and granulosa cells of the oocyte-II and III, but immune-intensity decreased in the late-recrudescence and spawning phases (June and July). Similar pattern of immunoprecipitation was also observed in case of iNOS. However, the immunoreactivity pattern of nNOS was quite varied, it expressed moderately only in the nucleus and cytoplasm of perinuclear and oocyte-I stages during late-quiescence phase. While during the early recrudescence phase, the expression of nNOS disappeared completely from the nucleus and cytoplasm, rather it expressed intensely in the thecal and granulosa cells, which declined in the late-recrudescence and spawning phases. Moderate immunoreactivity of iNOS could also be localized in the zona radiata of ovulated oocyte. The intense NOS immunoreactivity in the thecal and granulosa cells coincided with increased levels of ovarian NO and 17β-estradiol content. They exhibited statistically significant positive correlation amongst themselves, suggesting the involvement of ovarian NOS/NO system in oogenesis and steroidogenesis in the catfish.

A simple, selective and sensitive derivative spectrophotometric method is proposed for the simultaneous determination of gallium(III) and indium(III) in mixtures using 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol in cationic micellar medium, without any prior separation. Beer's law is obeyed between 2.80×10 −1 −3.63 and 4.60×10 −1 −9.20 μg ml −1 concentration of Ga(III) and In(III) at 550 and 542 nm, the isodifferential points of indium and gallium complexes in the first-order derivative mode, respectively. The proposed method is successfully applied for the determination of gallium and indium in standard reference materials and synthetic binary mixtures with a relative error of ±2.07 and ±2.55%, respectively.

In vivo exposure of Lymnaea acuminata to thymol and [6]-gingerol (active molluscicidal components of Trachyspermum ammi and Zingiber officinale, respectively) indicates that they significantly alter acetylcholinesterase, lactic dehydrogenase, succinic dehydrogenase and cyto-oxidase activity in the nervous ­tissue of snails. In vitro exposure showed that, except for acetylcholinesterase and lactic dehydrogenase, no significant changes were observed in cyto-oxidase and succinic dehydrogenase activity in the nervous tissue of L. acuminata. Sublethal exposure to thymol and [6]-gingerol reduced the levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) in the nervous tissue of L. acuminata. There was, however, no significant change in the level of 5-hydroxy indol acetic acid (5-HIAA). Thymol and [6]-gingerol thus affects all the known neurotransmission mechanisms in the snail either separately or through a complex interaction between the different neurotransmitters. This may account for their toxicity to snails. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Gastroprotective mechanism of peganine hydrochloride isolated from Peganum harmala seeds was investigated. Peganine hydrochloride was evaluated against cold restraint (CRU), aspirin (AS), alcohol (AL) and pyloric ligation (PL) induced gastric ulcer models in rats. Potential anti-ulcer activity of peganine was observed against CRU (50.0%), AS (58.5%), AL (89.41%) and PL (62.50%) induced ulcer models. The reference drug omeprazole (10mg/kg, p.o.) showed 77.45% protection against CRU, 49.97% against AS and 69.42% against PL model. Sucralfate, another reference drug (500mg/kg, p.o.) showed 62.50% protection in AL induced ulcer model. Peganine significantly reduced free acidity (33.38%), total acidity (38.09%) and upregulated mucin secretion by 67.91%, respectively. Further, peagnine significantly inhibited H(+) K(+)-ATPase activity in vitro with IC50 of 73.47μg/ml as compared to the IC50 value of omeprazole (30.24μg/ml) confirming its anti-secretory activity.

Purpose.To compare the 2-year outcome of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using the measured resection versus the gap balancing techniques.Methods.21 men and 31 women aged 41 to 89 (mean, 73) years who underwent primary TKA by a single surgeon for osteoarthritis and had an American Society of Anesthesiologists I or II physical status were prospectively studied. Patients were randomised to undergo computer-assisted TKA using the measured resection technique (n=26) or the gap balancing technique (n=26). At the 2-year followup, patients were assessed by a single orthopaedic registrar blinded to the type of surgery using the Knee Society score (KSS), functional Knee Society score (FKSS), and revised Oxford Knee score (ROKS).Results.In the measured resection group, the mean KSS, FKSS, and ROKS increased from 34.3, 48, and 21 to 85.9, 89.6, and 36.5, respectively. In the gap balancing group, the respective scores increased from 35.4, 50, and 22.5 to 89.1, 92.4, and 40.6. Postoperative with the gap balancing technique; the respective p values were 0.46, 0.44, and 0.12.Conclusion.Improvements in the knee scores were comparable with the 2 techniques.

Klebsiella pneumoniae strain DF12SA (HQ114261) was isolated from diabetic foot wounds. The strain showed resistance against ampicillin, kanamycin, gentamicin, streptomycin, spectinomycin, trimethoprim, tetracycline, meropenem, amikacin, piperacillin/tazobactam, augmentin, co-trimoxazole, carbapenems, penicillins and cefoperazone, and was sensitive to clindamycin. Molecular characterization of the multidrug-resistance phenotype revealed the presence of a class 1 integron containing two genes, a dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) (PF00186), which confers resistance to trimethoprim; and aminoglycoside adenyltransferase (AadA) (PF01909), which confers resistance to streptomycin and spectinomycin. A class 1 integron in K. pneumoniae containing these two genes was present in eight (18.18%) out of 44 different diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients. Hence, there is a need to develop therapeutics that inhibit growth of multidrug resistant K. pneumoniae in DFU patients and still achieve amputation control. Am attempt was made to create a 3D model and find a suitable inhibitor using an in silico study. Rational drug design/testing requires crystal structures for DHFR and AadA. However, the structures of DHFR and AadA from K. pneumoniae are not available. Modelling was performed using Swiss Model Server and Discovery Studio 3.1. The PDBSum server was used to check stereo chemical properties using Ramachandran plot analysis of modeled structures. Clindamycin was found to be suitable inhibitor of DHFR and AadA. A DockingServer based on Autodock & Mopac was used for docking calculations. The amino acid residues Ser(32), Ile(46), Glu(53), Gln(54), Phe(57), Thr(72), Met(76), Val(78), Leu(79), Ser(122), Tyr(128), Ile(151) in case of DHFR and Phe(34), Asp(60), Arg(63), Gln(64), Leu(68), Glu(87), Thr(89), Val(90) for AadA were found to be responsible for positioning clindamycin into the active site. The study identifies amino acid residues crucial to 'DHFR and AadA -drug' and 'DHFR and AadA -inhibitor' interactions that might be useful in the ongoing search for a versatile DHFR and AadA -inhibitor.

Although a consensus exists on the nonoperative management of types I and III odontoid peg fractures, treatment of type II fractures remains controversial. An increasing trend exists toward primary fixation of type II peg fractures due to a high rate of nonunion, especially if the displacement is >4 mm. This article reports the results of nonoperative treatment of patients with displaced odontoid peg fractures (>4 mm) using a Philadelphia collar. A retrospective review of clinical and radiological records was performed for nonoperatively treated patients who sustained displaced type II peg fractures between January 2003 and April 2008. The study group comprised 9 patients (2 men and 7 women), and all patients were treated with Philadelphia collars. Patients were followed up for an average of 24.8 months (range, 8–28 months) for clinical and radiological outcomes. Functional outcomes were measured according to the Smiley-Webster scale. Fractures united uneventfully in 6 patients, but nonunion developed in 3 patients. Average time to union was 12.3±2.94 weeks (95% confidence interval, 9.97–14.68 weeks; range, 10–16 weeks). No patient had clinical or radiological signs of instability or delayed onset myelopathy at follow-up. Three patients had excellent, 4 had good, and 2 had fair results as per the Smiley-Webster functional scoring system. Displaced type II peg fractures can be managed nonoperatively in patients who refuse surgery or those with multiple comorbidities. Adequate patient counseling and compliance with close clinicoradiological follow-up is paramount to avoid adverse clinical events and achieve an optimal functional outcome.

Background Forefoot surgery causes postoperative pain frequently requiring strong painkillers. Regional blocks are now increasingly used in order to control postoperative pain especially in the first 24h when the pain is at its worst. We conducted a prospective study to see if timing of ankle block i.e. before or after inflation of tourniquet showed any difference in efficacy in postoperative pain control in first 24h. Methods A prospective randomised study was conducted between September 2010 and August 2011 involving 60 patients. Group A ( n =30) had the ankle block administered after and Group B ( n =30) had a block before inflation of a thigh tourniquet. Patients were given assessment forms to chart their pain on visual analogue scale (VAS) score at 4h and 24h postoperatively. Results Both groups demonstrated good postoperative pain control. Average VAS pain score at four and twenty fours after surgery was 2.5 and 4.5 in Group A and 3.9 and 6.3 in Group B respectively. Pain control, both at 4 and 24h surgery was better in Group A but this was statistically significant only at 24h. Conclusions A regional anaesthetic ankle block should be routinely used in forefoot surgery to control postoperative pain. The ankle block should be applied after the inflation of tourniquet as this appears to provide better pain control.

Purpose. To evaluate the sterility of the sterile surgical helmet system (SSHS) during elective total hip and knee arthroplasty in theatres with (n=20) and without (n=20) laminar flow. Methods. Three surgeons performed 14 total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) and 6 total hip arthroplasties (THAs) in a laminar flow theatre and 15 TKAs and 5 THAs in a non-laminar flow theatre. An SSHS was used in all the procedures. Samples were taken from the hood at 30-minute intervals during surgery. Swabs were then broken into cooked meat broths for cultivation of organisms. The broths were then directly inoculated onto blood agar and fastidious anaerobic agar for culture of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, respectively. After 24 hours, these plates were reinoculated with broths that had been incubated for 24 hours. Microbial growth was quantified as 0 (none), 1 (mild), 2 (moderate) and 3 (heavy). Bacterial contamination in the 2 groups at 30, 60 and 90 minutes was compared. Results. Respectively in the laminar and non-laminar flow theatres, 0 and 9 of the SSHSs showed bacterial growth after direct inoculation, and 14 and 18 of the SSHSs grew 18 and 24 types of organisms in the swab cultures after 24 hours of incubation. Respectively at 30, 60, and 90 minutes, the degree of contamination from direct incubation was significant, but the degree of contamination on swabs after 24 hours of inoculation was not significant. The mean time-dependent contamination after direct inoculation was 0 for the laminar flow group and 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 for the non-laminar flow group, whereas the corresponding values after 24 hours of incubation were 1.8, 1.8, and 2.6, and 2, 2.75, and 2.95. Coagulase negative Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism in both groups. Conclusion. 80% of SSHSs used were contaminated intra-operatively. Direct contact with the SSHS should be avoided by the operating team during surgery. Routine changing of gloves in case of contact with the SSHS should be practised.