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The study was carried out on four mature Jaffrabadi breeding bulls (4–6 years old) maintained at Cattle Breeding Farm, JAU, Junagadh for a period of 8 months during winter and summer. The seasonal and bull variations in sexual behavior traits were studied. A total of 64 observations (32 per season, 8 per bull) were availed at the fortnightly interval. The mean values/ scores for temperament (0–5 scale), libido (0–9 scale), penile erection (0–4 scale), protrusion (0–4 scale), intensity of thrust (0–4 scale), reaction time (sec) and Flehmen reaction (0, 1) during winter season were 1.28 ± 0.08, 6.75 ± 0.19, 3.22 ± 0.74, 2.88 ± 0.59, 3.15 ± 0.65, 125.00 ± 6.92 and 0.91 ± 0.43, respectively, while the respective values in summer season were 2.22 ± 0.07, 5.93 ± 0.43, 2.84 ± 0.65, 2.75 ± 0.59, 2.93 ± 0.13, 143.5 ± 7.07 and 0.88 ± 0.06. There were significant differences among seasons for temperament, libido and penile erection score of Jaffrabadi bulls. Significant differences among bulls were also found for libido score, the intensity of thrust and reaction time in the winter season, and for ejaculatory thrust in the summer season. All these traits were highly significantly and positively interrelated (r = 0.353 to 0.512), except Flehmen reaction and reaction time which were negatively correlated with all other behavioral traits (r = –340 to –0.499). Summer in general significantly exerted an adverse effect on the sexual behavior of Jaffrabadi bulls, and winter was the favored season. It could be concluded from the study that the Jaffrabadi bulls had good sexual behavior scores throughout both the seasons, however, bulls showed better sexual behavior during winter as compared to summer.

Herd structure and herd performance traits of Gir herd of Cattle Breeding Farm, JAU, Junagadh, Gujarat was studied utilizing monthly data over a period of 10 years (2001-2010). A herd with an average of 110 Gir cows had average total strength of 388.38±3.09 and total adult units (AUs) of 259.27 ±13.42. The total females present in the herd were 71.82%. The Gir herd consisted of 28.98 % cows, 22.02 % breedable heifers, 22.34 % calves (female + male) and 12.33 % males above 1 year. Wet average and herd average were 6.77±0.10 and 3.84±0.06 lit/d/cow, and % milch cows and number of milch cows were 57.03±0.85 and 63.12±1.42, respectively. Effect of month was significant on the herd average only. All herd performance traits were significantly influenced by year. Return over feed cost (ROFC) at variable feed cost was estimated to be 116.36±4.24 % at market rate of milk. Calving incidence was significantly (P less than 0.05) influenced by month. Majority (42.08 %) of calving occurred during September to December. Of 562 animals disposed of, the maximum proportion (33.96 %) was cows principally due to old age (>6 lactation) and low yield. Maximum cows, 26.21% were disposed of in their 3rd lactation. Growing/breeding males were sold @ 28.57% and castrated males to the tune of 22.32 %. The correlations among the herd structure and performance traits of the herd were negative, medium in magnitude and significant, - 0.21 to - 0.29 with wet average, -0.16 to -0.21 with herd average and -0.25 to -0.73 (P less than 0.05) with % ROFC. For the Gir herd under the study, herd structure of 30-33% cows, 18-21% breedable heifers and 72-75% total female proportion resulted in optimum wet average (>7.32 lit/d/milch cow) and herd average (> 4.17 lit/d/cow) and also higher ROFC >139.6 %.

The prostaglandin and its synthetic analogue are considered as drug of choice in reproductive management. A total of twenty Jaffrabadi buffaloes with reproductive disorders were selected from cattle breeding farm, Junagadh. All twenty buffaloes (Group I) were treated with single dose of Prostaglandin (synthetic analogue, clostrinol, 2 ml) while the animals which did not respond (Group II) to first injection of Prostaglandin were subjected to second injection of Prostaglandin 11 days after first treatment. A total of six animals (30%) responded to first dose of PGF 2 α, while eight animals (57%) responded to second dose of PGF 2 α. The mean time required for induction of heat in first and second group was 70.24 ± 1.44 hrs and 56.86 ± 1.96. The mean duration of estrus proper in first group was 19.18 ± 0.69 hrs, while in second group the mean duration was 16.13 ± 0.42 hr. The conception rate in the present study was 43.05 per cent for the first group of animals and 49 per cent for the animal that were treated with second dose of PGF 2 α. In conclusion, administration of PGF 2 α at eleven days interval causes faster heat induction and better conception rate.

Breeding and lactation efficiencies (BE and LE), parity-wise production profile, productive herd life and lifetime milk production (LTMP) of Gir cows (N=309), based on 1363 calvings during 1991 to 2010 at Cattle Breeding Farm, JAU, Junagadh were studied. Age at first calving (AFC) and calving interval (CI) of Gir cows were 1527.76±14.17 and 481.22±4.86 days, respectively. CI ranged from 386 to 505 days among different lactations. When AFC and CI were taken into account together, BE of the cows as per Tomar (BE-T) was estimated to be 86.91±0.49 %. About 17 % of Gir cows in the herd calved for the first time at >42 months of age (Av. 37.04 month) and 38 % of the cows had less than 14 months of CI. Lactation period (LP) of Gir cows varied significantly (P>0.05) from 230 days to 335 days showing an increasing trend with increase in no. of parity. Overall LP of Gir cows was 281.02±4.56 days, LE being 61.07±1.10%. Total lactation milk yield (TLMY) and standard lactation milk yield (SLMY) of Gir cows averaged 2006.29±48.77 and 1819.73±45.44 lit, respectively. Milk yield increased significantly (P>0.05), with increase in no. of parity, reaching peak TLMY (2425 lit) and SLMY (2303 lit) in 5th lactation. TLMY was 2134 to 2362 lit, and SLMY 1950 to 2110 lit in 6th to 8th lactation. Productive herd life averaged 3107.87±81.40 days (8.51 years). Mean number of calvings during lifetime was 4.25±0.15. A total of 19- 25 % of the total cows performed in the herd for more than 12 years, (average being 14.6 years) and for > 6 lactations. Gir cows produced 9988.71±649.08 lit LTMP. LTMP of Gir cows was significantly associated with both, the BE and LE (r =0.23 to 0.25). MSLMY showed significant (P>0.05) correlation (r=0.31 to 0.37) with BE-W and LE. Association of AFC was significant with BE-T (r=0.26). The 1st and 2nd CI showed a correlation (r= 0.57 to 0.59, P>0.01) of high magnitude with BE-W. The findings revealed that Gir cows in the herd are worth- retaining in the herd till 8th lactation with satisfactory breeding efficiency of about 87 % for economically viable sustainable dairy farming.

Aim: Our objective was to estimate in-vitro gas production from dry jowar fodder added with differentconcentrations of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFEs) like neutral cellulase and fungal xylanase.Materials and Methods: 34 different samples of dry jowar fodder were prepared according to differentconcentrations of neutral cellulase, fungal xylanase and neutral cellulase + fungal xylanase (1:1). Sample notcontaining any enzymes was considered as the control group. These 34 samples were subjected to further in vitrogas production analysis.Results: Statistically, significantly higher (P

Aim: Our objective was to evaluate the effect of bypass nutrients i.e. bypass lysine, methionine and fat on growth and nutritional efficiency in growing Jaffrabadi buffalo heifers aged 21 to 27 months.Materials and Methods: Twenty buffalo heifers were divided into four groups of equal number: control group (T1), bypass fat supplementation (T2), bypass lysine and methionine supplementation (T3) and bypass lysine, methionine and fat supplementation (T4). The feeds were analyzed for proximate constituents. Body measurements (body length, body height, heart girth, body girth, pelvic length and pelvic width) as well as body weights (kg) of individual animals were recorded at the beginning and thereafter at every fifteen day interval throughout the experimental period. Feed conversion ratio was determined in terms of dry matter required per kg gain in body weight under different treatments.Results: The total weight gain and average daily body weight gain during the experiment was highest in T4 followed by T2, which differed significantly (P0.05).Conclusion: Incorporation of bypass nutrients (lysine, methionine and fat) in the ration of growing Jaffrabadi heifers improved live weight gain, dry matter intake (kg/day), dry matter intake per kg metabolic weight and feed conversion ratio (DMI/kg body weight gain).

Diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus), is a notorious pest of brassica crops worldwide and is resistant to all groups of insecticides. The insect system harbors diverse groups of microbiota, which in turn helps in enzymatic degradation of xenobiotic-like insecticides. The present study aimed to determine the diversity of gut microflora in DBM, quantify esterase activity and elucidate their possible role in degradation of indoxacarb. We screened 11 geographic populations of DBM in India and analyzed them for bacterial diversity. The culturable gut bacterial flora underwent molecular characterization with 16S rRNA. We obtained 25 bacterial isolates from larvae (n = 13) and adults (n = 12) of DBM. In larval gut isolates, gammaproteobacteria was the most abundant (76%), followed by bacilli (15.4%). Molecular characterization placed adult gut bacterial strains into three major classes based on abundance: gammaproteobacteria (66%), bacilli (16.7%) and flavobacteria (16.7%). Esterase activity from 19 gut bacterial isolates ranged from 0.072 to 2.32 µmol/min/mg protein. Esterase bands were observed in 15 bacterial strains and the banding pattern differed in Bacillus cereus – KC985225 and Pantoea agglomerans – KC985229. The bands were characterized as carboxylesterase with profenofos used as an inhibitor. Minimal media study showed that B. cereus degraded indoxacarb up to 20%, so it could use indoxacarb for metabolism and growth. Furthermore, esterase activity was greater with minimal media than control media: 1.87 versus 0.26 µmol/min/mg protein. Apart from the insect esterases, bacterial carboxylesterase may aid in the degradation of insecticides in DBM.

Background and purpose: In gastrointestinal smooth muscle cGMP levels in response to relaxant agonists are regulated by PKG-mediated phosphorylation and activation of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5). The aim of the present study was to determine whether contractile agonists modulate cGMP levels by cross-regulating PDE5 activity and to identify the mechanism of action. Experimental approach: Dispersed and cultured muscle cells from rabbit stomach were treated with the nitric oxide donor, S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), or with a contractile agonist, ACh and GSNO. PDE5 phosphorylation and activity, and cGMP levels were determined. Key results: GSNO stimulated PDE5 phosphorylation and activity and increased cGMP levels in gastric smooth muscle cells. Concurrent activation of cells with ACh augmented GSNO-stimulated PDE5 phosphorylation and activity, and attenuated cGMP levels. The effect of ACh was blocked by the m3 receptor antagonist and by inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC) or RhoA, but not by the m2 receptor antagonist or inhibitors of PI hydrolysis. The effects of ACh on PDE5 phosphorylation and activity, and cGMP levels were mimicked by a low concentration of tautomycin (10 nM), and a high (1 μM) but not low (1 nM) concentration of okadaic acid. PDE5 was associated with protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) and dephosphorylated by the catalytic subunit of PP1 but not PP2A. Conclusion and implications: In gastrointestinal smooth muscle cGMP levels are cross-regulated by contractile agonists via a mechanism that involves RhoA-dependent, PKC-mediated inhibition of PP1 activity. This leads to augmentation of PDE5 phosphorylation and activity, and inhibition of cGMP levels. British Journal of Pharmacology (2008) 153, 1214–1224; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707686; published online 21 January 2008

Cauvery Basin, in the southeastern passive margin of the Indian plate, evolved since the late Jurassic as a composite of rifted grabens and was part of the development of the divergent margin of India's east coast. The grabens, represented by Mesozoic sediment fill, are designated as sub-basins.

Landcover categories with a special emphasis on biomass were mapped in an area within 100 km radius of the twin cities of Hyderabad-Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India, using the technique of interpretation of satellite imagery acquired in the mid-1990s. They were then compared with the imagery acquired in the mid-1980s. The changes in landcover were not only from natural to manmade, but also in the reverse order. The manifestations indicate a process of conversion of non-agricultural land to agricultural land which were later given up. The biomass per unit area of each category was estimated using groundbased measurements. The category-wise and total biomass of the study area were computed and the annual increment of the biomass was derived. The residual portion of the annual increment after estimating the rural requirement was found to more or less match with the estimated annual wood and fuelwood intake of the metropolis. It is inferred that the pressure of the demand for fuelwood on the forest and non...

Abstract The study area is situated in the offshore West Nile Delta basin towards the northeast of Alexandria, Egypt. This is a major petroleum habitat hosting many gas and condensate fields. The present paper summarizes the petroleum system elements for hydrocarbon prospecting in the Messinian and deeper stratigraphic section based on an integrated study of seismic and well data. Mixed well results have been observed in the area with proven gas fields found in stratigraphic fluvial channels in the Messinian. Rotated fault blocks and fault dependent traps were tested but no discoveries were proven. Failure could be due to trap integrity issues and inadequate migration pathways. Potential remaining stratigraphic plays identified are deepwater slope channels in the pre-Messinian to Oligocene section similar to overlying Pliocene gas fields. Depositional models based on seismic attribute mapping and a few wells generally depicts a NW-SE facies belt trend dominated by deepwater slope channel complexes flanked by slope shales ranging in age from Upper Oligocene to Miocene (Pre-Messinian). In the Messinian, the depositional environment is associated with a major sea-level drop with consequent exposure of the shelf/slope. It contains predominantly incised valleys and fluvial-fills flanked by interfluves. The hydrocarbon charge is expected from Cretaceous-Jurassic and Early Tertiary pro-delta shale source rocks (Marten et al., 2004). Evidence of highly mature thermogenic gases (2.0 % - 2.5% VRo) advocates the assumption of the presence of a deeper source rock contribution from limited well calibration. Basin modeling results shows that the modelled source rocks are presently in the hydrocarbon generation window. Source rock generation has occurred very late from 9.0Ma to 1.0Ma and migration timing post-dates trap formation. Traps are expected to be charged vertically and through fault conduits as observed in well results. This study paved the way for a better understanding of the petroleum system elements which consequently forms the basis in risking the Messinian and deeper exploration plays and shows that the Messinian stratigraphic channel plays are most prospective.

Integrated intensities of Bragg reflections have been measured at room temperature for Ni3A1 alloys containing various amounts of boron, hafnium, zirconium and titanium and the data have been used to evaluate the mean Debye-Waller factors ((B)), Debye temperatures (OM) and long-range-order parameters (S). The Debye temperatures are observed to show a slight decrease with the decrease of aluminium content within the Ni3A1 phase. The results for the DebyeWaller factors indicate that additions of the ternary elements hafnium, zirconium and titanium cause the mean Debye-WaUer factor to increase linearly, while boron addition results in a nonlinear increase. The long-range-order parameter of stoichiometric Ni3A1 is 0.97, which decreases with decreasing aluminium concentration from the stoichiometric composition. The long-range-order parameter of Ni3A1 increases until 0.75 at.% B has been added, beyond that it remains constant. The long-range-order parameter of Ni3A1 increases initially with the addition of hafnium, zirconium and titanium up to 0.50at.% Hf and 0.52 at.%Zr, with further addition of hafnium and zirconium, it decreases. The results are discussed in relation to the crystal structure and chemical bonding in Ni3AI.

N-(2,2-diphenylethyl)adenosine, designated as CI-936, is a novel, orally active antipsychotic agent. Depending on the manufacturing process, the drug substance exists in more than one crystalline form. Three lots of the drug were characterized by thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and dissolution. Two of these lots were found to be crystalline while the third was amorphous. The physical properties of the crystalline forms appear to change during storage under ambient conditions. The amorphous form, inspite of being in a high energy state, was not affected by storage. The absolute bioavailability of the amorphous form in dogs is more than 90%. In contrast, the other two crystalline lots demonstrated lower and unpredictable oral absorption profiles.

A strain of T. chilonis, an egg parasitoid of lepidopteran pests tolerant to the most commonly used cyclodiene insecticide--endosulfan was developed in the laboratory. Tolerance to endosulfan was induced by exposing adult parasitoids sequentially from a sub-lethal concentration (0.004%) to the field recommended concentration (0.09%). The strain acquired tolerance to the insecticide after 341 generation of continuous exposure with LC50 values of 1074.96 ppm as compared to LC50 of (70.91 ppm) in susceptible strain. The genetical study showed that F1 crosses exhibited a semi-dominant response to endosulfan with degree of dominance value (D) of 0.58. The resistant factor of tolerant strain was 15.1 folds and of F1 cross were 8.53 folds over susceptible strain. Under net house conditions, the tolerant strain parasitised 56% Helicoverpa armigera eggs on potted cotton plants immediately after an insecticide spray, compared to 3% by the susceptible strain. High percentage survival of the immature stages of the tolerant strain proved their ability to withstand the insecticide load. Breakdown of insecticide tolerance in the strain occurred after four generations in absence of insecticide load. Use of the tolerant strain as a component of bio-intensive IPM in various crops where insecticide use is higher is discussed.

Transcatheter balloon recanalization of occluded Blalock-Taussig shunts in the early post-operative period has been reported in the past but there are issues regarding the role of thrombolysis in this situation. We present our experience with such a procedure in an infant with blocked modified Blalock-Taussig shunt.

Complete heart block following intracardiac surgical repair for complex congenital heart disease is not uncommon. In the presence of ventricular dysfunction, ventricular pacing alone may not improve the cardiac output. We report the feasibility and efficacy of endoepicardial atrioventricular sequential pacing in a case of postoperative complete heart block.

The regulation of cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 and soluble guanylate cyclase (GC) by cGMP- and cAMP-dependent protein kinases (PKG and PKA respectively) was examined in gastric smooth muscle. The NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), stimulated PDE5 phosphorylation and activity, which was blocked by the selective PKG inhibitor, KT5823, resulting in an elevation of cGMP levels. Activation of PKA either directly by Sp-5,6-dichloro-1-beta-d-ribofuranosyl benzimidazole 3',5'-cyclic monophosphothioate, or via isoproterenol- and forskolin-dependent increase in cAMP, also caused an increase in PDE5 phosphorylation and activity, but only in the presence of cGMP; consistent with the dependence of PDE5 phosphorylation and activity on cGMP binding to allosteric sites in the regulatory domain of PDE5. The selective PKA inhibitors, myristoylated protein kinase inhibitor and H-89, blocked the increase in PDE5 phosphorylation and activity induced by PKA. SNP also stimulated soluble GC phosphorylation and activity. KT5823 abolished phosphorylation and augmented soluble GC activity, implying feedback inhibition of soluble GC by PKG-dependent phosphorylation. Phosphorylation by PKG was direct and could be induced in vitro. Activation of PKA had no effect on soluble GC. Thus cGMP levels are regulated by PKG- and PKA-dependent activation of PDE5 and PKG-specific inhibition of soluble GC.

A homograft valve bank for cryopreservation of cardiac homografts was established at the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases in July 1995. From July 1995 to February 1999, 169 donor hearts were processed. All except four hearts were procured post mortem. Aortic valves (149) and pulmonary valves (139) were the common homografts dissected out for use. The valves were immersed in a cocktail of five broad spectrum antibiotics and antifungals for an average of 48 to 72 hours before cryopreservation. Fifty-three (35.57%) aortic and 42 (30.21%) pulmonary valves had to be discarded for various reasons like fungal contamination, failure to sterilise, HBsAg positivity etc.; 153 homografts have been released for use so far. Analysing the usual methods of procurement, sterilisation protocol, culture and cryopreservation used for cardiac homografts at this centre, this paper recommends observance of timeliness, use of appropriate media for preservation of heart parts, administration of specific drugs and safeguards necessary for cryopreservation procedure.

Both cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases inhibit agonist-stimulated phospholipase C-beta (PLC-beta) activity and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-dependent Ca2+ release in vascular and visceral smooth muscle. In smooth muscle of the intestinal longitudinal layer, however, the initial steps in Ca2+ mobilization involve activation of cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2) and arachidonic acid (AA)-dependent stimulation of Ca2+ influx. The present study examined whether cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases are capable of regulating these processes also. Agents that activated cAMP-dependent protein kinase (5, 6-dichloro-1-beta-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole 3',5'-cyclic monophosphothioate (Sp-isomer) and isoproterenol), cGMP-dependent protein kinase (8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate and Na nitroprusside), or both kinases (vasoactive intestinal peptide and isoproterenol1 microM) induced phosphorylation of cPLA2 and inhibition of agonist-stimulated cPLA2 activity. Phosphorylation and inhibition of cPLA2 activity by cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases were blocked by the corresponding selective inhibitors (cAMP-dependent protein kinase, N-[2(p-bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinoline-sulfonamide hydrochloride (H-89) and myristoylated protein kinase inhibitor () amide; cGMP-dependent protein kinase, (8R,9S, 11S)-(-)-9-methoxy-carbamyl-8-methyl-2,3,9,10-tetrahydro-8, 11-epoxy-1H,8H,11H,-2,7b,11a-trizadizobenzo(a,g)cycloocta(c, d, e)-trinden-1-one (KT-5823)). In contrast, AA-stimulated Ca2+ influx was inhibited by agents that activated cGMP-dependent protein kinase only; the inhibition was selectively blocked by KT-5823. The study provides the first evidence of inhibitory phosphorylation of cPLA2 in vivo by cAMP- and cGMP-dependent protein kinases. Inhibition of cPLA2 activity and AA-induced Ca2+ influx partly account for the ability of cAMP-dependent protein kinase and/or cGMP-dependent protein kinase to cause relaxation. Their importance resides in their location at the inception of the Ca2+ signaling cascade.

P2 receptor subtypes and their signaling mechanisms were characterized in dispersed smooth muscle cells. UTP and ATP stimulated inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction that were abolished by U-73122 and guanosine 5'-O-(3-thio)diphosphate, and partly inhibited (50-60%) by pertussis toxin (PTX). ATP analogs (adenosine 5'-(alpha, beta-methylene)triphosphate, adenosine 5'-(beta, gamma-methylene)triphosphate, and 2-methylthio-ATP) stimulated Ca2+ influx and contraction that were abolished by nifedipine and in Ca2+-free medium. Micromolar concentrations of ATP stimulated both Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release. ATP and UTP activated Gq/11 and Gi3 in gastric and aortic smooth muscle and heart membranes, Gq/11 and Gi1 and/or Gi2 in liver membranes, and Go and Gi1-3 in brain membranes. Phosphoinositide hydrolysis stimulated by ATP and UTP was mediated concurrently by Galphaq/11-dependent activation of phospholipase (PL) C-beta1 and Gbetagammai3-dependent activation of PLC-beta3. Phosphoinositide hydrolysis was partially inhibited by PTX or by antibodies to Galphaq/11, Gbeta, PLC-beta1, or PLC-beta3, and completely inhibited by the following combinations (PLC-beta1 and PLC-beta3 antibodies; Galphaq/11 and Gbeta antibodies; PLC-beta1 and Gbeta antibodies; PTX with either PLC-beta1 or Galphaq/11 antibody). The pattern of responses implied that P2Y2 receptors in visceral, and probably vascular, smooth muscle are coupled to PLC-beta1 via Galphaq/11 and to PLC-beta3 via Gbetagammai3. These receptors co-exist with ligand-gated P2X1 receptors activated by ATP analogs and high levels of ATP.

Poultry excreta has the most economic value for use as animal feed. Poultry excreta in ruminant ration could have a considerable effect on reducing costs, increasing level of protein in diet, and on solving disposal problems. Generally poultry excreta are high in fibre and ash. Poultry excreta appear to have energy concentration, calcium, nitrogen and phosphorous levels exceeding that of some high quality hay. Poultry excreta are rich sources of many minerals. Poultry excreta is an economical source of supplemental crude protein and minerals to ruminants. Poultry excreta can be used in livestock feed specially in country like India where there is large shortage of nutritious feed. Research showed that growing and lactating animals accept these poultry wastes in concentrate supplements. Safer limit seems to be 30% in concentrate mixtures. These mixtures are readily acceptable and palatable.

Background: Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect that leads to shunting of blood between left and right atria. It may be asymptomatic and sometimes may present with heart failure. Surgical repair is definitive, but currently non-surgical procedure is used to close the defect. Materials and Methods: It is a retrospective study of patients who underwent transcatheter closure of ASD at Innova Heart Hospital, Hyderabad, India. Echocardiography was repeated at intervals of 24 hours, then at 1, 3 and 6 months after the procedure to assess complications. The morphological characteristics of the ASD, including its diameter, location, shape and the width of surrounding septal margins, were also evaluated. Results: From April 2007 to June 2011, 69 consecutive children (29 males, 40 females) with a median age of 9.0 years (range = 3.2–19 years) registered with diagnosis of ASD. The median weight was 31.5 kg (range = 7.5–39.0 kg). Five patients (7.2%) were young children aged 3–5 years. Forty-four (63.8%) of these children presented with symptoms of heart failure, whereas 47 (68.1%) of the cases repaired with device were large-sized ASD. The most common interventional procedures done were Searcare Heart® and Amplatzer® technique with a highest success rate obtained in 2010. Conclusions: ASD is a common congenital heart disease with a high success rate for those who undergo intervention.

Muscarinic m2 and m4 receptors couple preferentially to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, whereas m1, m3, and m5 receptors couple preferentially to activation of phospholipase C-beta and in some cells to stimulation of cAMP. Smooth muscle cells were shown to express adenylyl cyclases types V and/or VI. Acetylcholine (ACh) stimulated the binding of [35S]GTPgammaS.Galpha complexes in smooth muscle membranes to Galphaq/11 and Galphai3 antibody. Binding to Galphaq/11 antibody was inhibited by the m3 receptor antagonist, 4-DAMP, and binding to Galphai3 antibody was inhibited by the m2 receptor antagonist, N,N'-bis[6[[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]amino]hexyl]-1,8-octanediamine tetrahydrochloride (methoctramine). The decrease in basal cAMP (35 +/- 5%) induced by ACh in dispersed muscle cells was accentuated by 4-DAMP or Gbeta antibody (55 +/- 8 to 63 +/- 6%). In contrast, methoctramine, pertussis toxin (PTx), or Galphai3 antibody converted the decrease in cAMP to increase above basal level (+28 +/- 5 to +32 +/- 6%); the increase in cAMP was abolished by 4-DAMP or Gbeta antibody. In muscle cells where only m3 receptors were preserved by selective receptor protection, ACh caused only an increase in cAMP that was abolished by 4-DAMP. Conversely, in muscle cells where only m2 receptors were preserved, ACh caused an accentuated decrease in cAMP that was abolished by methoctramine or PTx. In conclusion, m2 receptors in smooth muscle couple to inhibition of adenylyl cyclases V/VI via Galphai3, and m3 receptors couple to activation of the enzymes via Gbetagammaq/11.

To illustrate the incidence, the different age group, varied clinical presentation, incremental risk factors for surgery and follow-up results from this part of the world.Retrospective study with follow-up from 3 months to 5 years.Institutional practice with hospitalised care.Hospitalised patients with a diagnosis of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.All patients who were diagnosed to have total anomalous pulmonary venous connection underwent corrective surgery.There were 20 hospital deaths postoperatively. The mean follow-up was 1.9 year. Logistic regression analysis identified age group, timing of surgery, associated anomalies preoperative symptoms, anatomical type of lesion, pulmonary artery hypertension, duration of ventilation, low cardiac output as risk factors for surgery. The mean survival time was 4-8 years.Mortality continues to be higher from this part of the world due to severe malnourishment, late presentation. Sociodemographic factors also play a major role in affecting surgical outcome apart from the identified risk factors for surgery.

In neurons and transformed cell lines, opioid receptors are coupled to various signaling mechanisms involved in Ca2+ mobilization, including inhibition or activation of Ca2+ channels and phospholipase C-beta (PLC-beta), the enzyme responsible for generation of the Ca2+ mobilizing messenger inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3]. In the current study, we used selective PLC-beta and G protein antibodies to identify the PLC-beta isozyme activated by opioid receptors in intestinal smooth muscle and the G proteins to which the PLC-beta isozyme and adenylyl cyclase are coupled. [D-Pen2,D-Pen5]Enkephalin, a delta receptor agonist, stimulated Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction; inhibited forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation in dispersed muscle cells; and stimulated phosphoinositide hydrolysis in plasma membranes; all of the effects were blocked by pertussis toxin. [D-Pen2,D-Pen5]Enkephalin-stimulated Ins(1,4,5)P3 formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction in permeabilized muscle cells and phosphoinositide hydrolysis in plasma membranes were selectively blocked by G beta antibody and PLC-beta 3 antibody; contractions stimulated by [D-Ala2,N-MePhe4,Gly-ol5]enkephalin, a mu receptor agonist, and U-69,593, a kappa receptor agonist, were also blocked by G beta and PLC-beta 3 antibodies. Inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation by delta, mu, and kappa receptor agonists was partially blocked by G alpha i2 and G alpha o antibodies and additively blocked by a combination of the antibodies. The delta, mu, and kappa receptor agonists stimulated the binding of guanosine-5'-O-(3-thio)triphosphate to the alpha subunits of Gi2 and G(o) but not to the alpha subunits of other G proteins. We conclude that opioid mu, delta, and kappa receptors are selectively coupled to Gi2 and G(o) in intestinal smooth muscle. The beta gamma subunits of both G proteins activate PLC-beta 3, thereby stimulating Ins(1,4,5)P3-dependent Ca2+ release and smooth muscle contraction, whereas the alpha subunits inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity.

In COS-7 cells, all five cloned somatostatin receptors are coupled via inhibitory G proteins to activation of an unidentified phospholipase C-beta (PLC-beta) isozyme and inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. In the present study, intestinal smooth muscle cells (SMC) that express only one receptor type, sstr3, and possess a full complement of G proteins and PLC-beta isozymes were used to identify the PLC-beta isozyme and the G proteins coupled to it and to adenylyl cyclase. Somatostatin-14 bound with high affinity to intestinal SMC; stimulated D-myo-inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction; and inhibited forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation in a pertussis toxin-sensitive fashion. Somatostatin also stimulated phosphoinositide hydrolysis in plasma membranes. Only those somatostatin analogs that shared a high affinity for sstr3 receptors elicited muscle contraction. IP3 formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction in permeabilized SMC and phosphoinositide hydrolysis in plasma membranes were inhibited (approximately 80%) by pretreatment with antibodies to PLC-beta3 but not other PLC-beta isozymes, and by antibodies to Gbeta but not Galpha. Inhibition of cAMP formation was partially blocked by antibody to Galphai1 or Galphao and additively blocked by a combination of both antibodies. Somatostatin-stimulated [35S]GTPgammaS-Galpha complexes in plasma membranes were bound selectively by Galphai1 and Galphao antibodies. We conclude that in smooth muscle sstr3 is coupled to Gi1 and Go; the alpha subunits of both G proteins mediate inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, while the betagamma subunits mediate activation of PLC-beta3.

The contributions of phosphoinositide (PI)- and phosphatidylcholine (PC)-specific phospholipases [PI-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC), PC-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC), and phospholipase D (PLD)] to diacylglycerol (DAG) formation and regulation of the enzymes by G proteins, Ca2+, and protein kinase C (PKC) were examined in dispersed intestinal circular and longitudinal muscle cells. DAG formation induced by cholecystokinin was biphasic and paralleled by PKC activity. The initial phase (approximately 1 min) was mediated by PI-PLC in circular muscle cells and by both PI- and PC-PLC in longitudinal muscle cells, whereas the sustained phase was mediated by PC-PLC and PLD in both cell types. PC-PLC activity during the initial phase was identified by rapid formation of the initial products [3H]phosphocholine (5 sec) and [3H]myristate-labeled DAG (approximately 15 sec). PLD activity did not contribute to DAG formation during the initial phase, and PI hydrolysis had no effect on PC-PLC or PLD activity during the initial or sustained phases. PLD activity during the sustained phase was evident by the formation of [3H]phosphatidylethanol, a PLD-specific transphosphatidylation product. Dephosphorylation of phosphatidic acid (PA) by phosphatidate phosphohydrolase (PPH) accounted for about 50% of DAG formation; inhibition of PPH activity by propranolol or suppression of PA formation by ethanol inhibited DAG formation by 59-69% and 57-62%, respectively. Residual DAG in the presence of ethanol was augmented 55-57% by DAG kinase inhibitor, whereas residual PA was inhibited by 60-67%, implying that PA was derived from DAG, and DAG from PLC-mediated PC hydrolysis. In the presence of ethanol, calphostin C inhibited phosphatidylethanol formation but had no effect on PA or DAG levels, implying that only PLD activity was modulated by PKC. Maintenance of resting intracellular Ca2+ concentrations, rather than an agonist-induced increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, was required for optimal PC-PLC and PLD activity. Guanosine-5'-O-(beta-thio)diphosphate abolished DAG and PA formation in reversibly permeabilized muscle cells. We conclude that DAG formation in intestinal muscle is mediated by time-dependent activation of three phospholipases (PI-PLC, PC-PLC, and PLD) and two converting enzymes (DAG kinase and PPH). PC-PLC and PLD are Ca2+ dependent and appear to be G protein coupled; only PLD is PKC sensitive.

Adenosine receptors and the signaling pathways to which they are coupled were examined in dispersed intestinal muscle cells. The receptors were characterized by their ability to induce contraction or relaxation, mobilize Ca2+ and stimulate or inhibit cAMP, in naive cells and in cells where only one receptor type was preserved by selective receptor protection. Adenosine elicited contraction and increased [Ca2+]i and cAMP; the contraction was mimicked by the A1 selective agonist, cyclopentyladenosine. A selective A1 antagonist, 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine, and pertussis toxin abolished contraction and the increase in [Ca2+]i and augmented the increase in cAMP. Conversely, a preferential A2 antagonist, 9-chloro-2-(2-furyl) [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]quinazolin-5-amine augmented contraction and the increase in [Ca2+]i and abolished the increase in cAMP; a cAMP-kinase inhibitor, Rp-cAMP[S], had a similar effect, augmenting contraction and the increase in [Ca2+]i. Adenosine elicited also relaxation of maximally contracted cells that increased or decreased in parallel with cAMP. The selective A2a agonist, 2-p-(2-carboxyethyl)phenethylamino-5'-N-ethylcarboxamido adenosine, was a very weak relaxant agent, and the selective A2a antagonist, 8-(3-chlorostyryl)caffeine, had no effect on adenosine-induced relaxation. In cells where only A1 receptors were preserved, the cAMP response to adenosine was abolished, although contraction and [Ca2+]i were increased to the same extent as when naive cells were treated with the A2 antagonist. Conversely, in cells where only A2 receptors were preserved, contraction and the increase in [Ca2+]i were abolished and the increase in cAMP was augmented to the same level as when naive cells were treated with the A1 antagonist.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Four native and cloned adenosine receptors (ARs), designated A1AR, A2aAR, A2bAR, and A3AR, have been characterized functionally and by radioligand binding. In the present study, we have used selective antibodies to identify the G protein subunits and phospholipase C (PLC)-beta isoform coupled to A1ARs in smooth muscle membranes and permeabilized muscle cells from rabbit intestine. Immunoblot analysis disclosed the presence of a full complement of G proteins. Adenosine caused contraction of dispersed muscle cells and increases in D-myo-inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate, intracellular calcium, and cAMP levels. Contraction and the increases in D-myo-inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate and intracellular calcium levels were abolished by the A1 antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine and augmented by the A2 antagonist CGS-15943; the reverse occurred with cAMP. A selective A1AR agonist, cyclopentyladenosine, inhibited forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation; the inhibition was reversed by treatment of the cells with pertussis toxin or a G alpha i3-specific antibody. The pattern of inhibition implied coexistence of A1ARs and A2ARs coupled to interactive signaling pathways, with A2ARs mediating activation of adenylyl cyclase and A1ARs mediating activation of PLC and inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. Adenosine-stimulated PLC activity in muscle membranes was selectively blocked by G alpha i3- and G beta-specific antibodies, as well as by a PLC-beta 3-specific antibody, but not by antibodies to other PLC-beta isoforms or G proteins. A combination of maximally effective concentrations of G alpha i3- and G beta-specific antibodies did not elicit greater inhibition than did either alone. In contrast, cholecystokinin-stimulated PLC activity was selectively blocked by PLC-beta 1- and G alpha q/11-specific antibodies. Adenosine-stimulated contraction and 45Ca2+ efflux in permeabilized muscle cells were also selectively blocked by G alpha i3-, G beta-, and PLC-beta 3-specific antibodies, whereas cholecystokinin-stimulated contraction was selectively blocked by PLC-beta 1- and G alpha q/11-specific antibodies. The results indicate that A1ARs are coupled to PLC-beta 3 via both alpha and beta gamma subunits of Gi3.

Plasma membranes isolated from dispersed gastric muscle cells exhibited calmodulin-dependent NOS activity that was stimulated by Ca2+ in the range 0.1-1 mM (maximum 10 microM). Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) (in the presence of GTP), and GTP gamma S (guanosine 5'-O-(gamma-thio)triphosphate) stimulated NOS activity in a concentration-dependent fashion above that maximally stimulated by Ca2+. The increase in NOS activity induced by VIP, PACAP, and GTP gamma S was abolished by GDP beta S (guanosine 5'-O-(beta-thio)diphosphate), which had no effect on NOS activity stimulated by Ca2+. The NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine and the calmodulin antagonist calmidazolium abolished NOS activity stimulated by all agents including Ca2+. NOS activity stimulated by GTP gamma S, VIP, and PACAP was inhibited by Gi alpha 1-2 antibody but not by Gq alpha, Gs alpha, and Gi alpha 3 antibodies. NOS activity stimulated by VIP and PACAP was inhibited by 80-83% in membranes derived from pertussis toxin-treated cells. We conclude that a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent NOS present in plasma membranes of gastric muscle cells is activated by two homologous peptide transmitters, VIP and PACAP, via a common receptor coupled to pertussis toxin (PTx)-sensitive Gi1-2. The study provides the first evidence of receptor-mediated G protein activation of NOS in smooth muscle cells.

Receptors for the peptidyl leukotrienes, (LT)C4, LTD4 and LTE4, and the signaling pathways to which they are coupled were characterized in isolated guinea pig gastric muscle cells. The three LTs were equipotent contractile agonists (EC50 values = 0.10-0.12 nM), but they elicited their responses by interacting with distinct receptors. The contractile responses to LTD4 and LTE4, but not LTC4, were inhibited by the LTD4 antagonist, SKF 104353 [2-(S)-hydroxy-3-(R)-[(2-carboxyethyl)thiol]-3-[2-(8- phenyloctyl)phenyl]-propanoic acid]. Similar Ki estimates for SKF 104353 suggested interaction of LTD4 and LTE4 with a common receptor. Decisive evidence for distinct LTC4 and LTD4/LTE4 receptors was obtained by applying a receptor protection technique. Cells in which LTC4 was used as a receptor protective agent while other receptors were inactivated by N-ethylmaleimide retained their responses to LTC4 only. Cells in which LTD4, LTE4 or SKF 104353 were used as a receptor protective agent retained their responses to LTD4 and LTE4 only. Both LTC4 and LTD4/LTE4 receptors were coupled to Pl hydrolysis: all three LTs stimulated similar increases in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) levels (3.9-4.3 pmol/10(6) cells), protein kinase C activity (85-94 pmol/mg/min) and cytosolic-free Ca++ ([Ca++]i) (278-306 nM). Contractile responses were abolished: 1) when Pl hydrolysis was inhibited by neomycin and 2) when Ca++ stores were depleted by pretreatment of muscle cells with caffeine in Ca(++)-free medium, but not when muscle cells were incubated in Ca(++)-free medium or with Ca++ channel blockers, suggesting that contraction and [Ca++]i were mediated by IP3-dependent Ca++ release.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

1,3-Dihydro-5-phenyl-2H-pyrido[3,4-e]-1,4-diazepin-2-ones (6-21), in which the chlorophenyl ring of 7-chloro-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-ones is replaced by a pyridyl ring, were synthesized and evaluated as anticonvulsants using subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (scPTZ) and maximal electroshock (MES) induced seizure screening tests. Structure-activity correlations indicated that a halo substituent at the 2-position of a 5-phenyl moiety enhanced scPTZ, but decreased MES, activity; the N1-substituent was a determinant of activity where the relative potency order was MeCH2CH2NEt2cyclopropylmethyl; and that a 3-Me or 3-OH substituent generally decreased activity. This 1,3-dihydro-5-phenyl-2H-pyrido[3,4-e]-1,4-diazepin-2-one class of compounds had moderate affinity for the benzodoazepine receptor relative to clonazepam. In the mouse Phase II scPTZ screen all compounds tested were less active than clonazepam but more active than valproic acid, and in the MES screen all compounds tested were less active than phenytoin but more active than either clonazepam or valproic acid.

Muscle cells were dispersed separately from circular and longitudinal muscle layers of guinea pig intestine, and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptors were characterized in naive cells and in cells in which one receptor type was preserved by selective receptor protection. In naive cells from both regions, 5-HT caused contraction and stimulated increases in cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) (3-fold; p0.01) and cAMP levels (40-60%; p0.01) that were inhibited, respectively, by the 5-HT2 antagonist ketanserin and the 5-HT1p antagonist N-acetyl-5-hydroxytryptophyl 5-hydroxytryptophan amide (5-HTP-DP). In circular muscle cells, where agonist-induced increase in [Ca2+]i is mediated by Ca2+ release from inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate-sensitive stores, 5-HT caused an increase in inositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate levels that was inhibited by ketanserin. In cells maximally contracted with a non-5-HT agonist (cholecystokinin octapeptide), 5-HT caused relaxation when the contractile effect mediated by 5-HT2 receptors was blocked with ketanserin; relaxation and the concomitant increase in cAMP were inhibited by 5-HTP-DP. The singular contributions of the Ca2+ and cAMP signaling pathways were identified in cells where only one receptor type was preserved. In cells with only 5-HT2 receptors, 5-HT caused contraction and an increase in [Ca2+]i but not in cAMP levels; contraction and the increase in [Ca2+]i were inhibited by ketanserin. Conversely, in cells with only 5-HT1p receptors, 5-HT caused relaxation and an increase in cAMP levels but not in [Ca2+]i; relaxation and the increase in cAMP levels were inhibited by 5-HTP-DP. The two signaling pathways were functionally linked, converging to regulate the level of [Ca2+]i. Thus, the increase in [Ca2+]i was augmented 1) when cAMP production was inhibited by 5-HTP-DP in naive cells or 2) when cAMP production was suppressed in cells where 5-HT1p receptors were inactivated and only 5-HT2 receptors were preserved. The results imply that the increase in cAMP levels mediated by 5-HT1p receptors acted to attenuate the increase in [Ca2+]i mediated by 5-HT2 receptors. We conclude that the response to 5-HT in muscle cells is a compound effect involving activation of two receptor types coupled to distinct signaling pathways that converge on [Ca2+]i as the determinant of mechanical activity.

Guanosine 5'-O-(gamma-thio)triphosphate (GTP[S]), NaF and cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8) were used to examine the participation of G proteins in agonist-induced contraction of smooth muscle cells isolated separately from circular and longitudinal muscle layer of guinea pig intestine. All three agents stimulated inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (InsP3) production and protein kinase C activity to the same extent in permeabilized (GTP[S] and CCK-8) and nonpermeabilized (NaF and CCK-8) muscle cells. InsP3 production was 9 to 13 times higher in circular muscle cells consistent with preferential hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-biphosphate in this cell type. InsP3 production and protein kinase C activation in permeabilized muscle cells were abolished by guanosine 5'-O-(beta-thio)diphosphate (10 microM). Maximal concentrations of GTP[S] (100 microM), CCK-8 (1 nM) and InsP3 (1 microM) elicited similar increases in [Ca++]i, net 45Ca++ efflux and contraction in permeabilized circular, but not longitudinal, muscle cells [( Ca++]i: 224 +/- 35 nM, 279 +/- 29 nM and 288 +/- 45 nM increase above basal level; 45Ca++ efflux: 35 +/- 2%, 34 +/- 3% and 37 +/- 3% decrease in cell Ca++ content; contraction: 26 +/- 2%, 24 +/- 2% and 25 +/- 2% decrease in cell length). The responses to GTP[S] and CCK-8 were abolished by guanosine 5'-O-(beta-thio)diphosphate (10 microM) and heparin (10 micrograms/ml), whereas the response to InsP3 was abolished by heparin only. Maximal concentrations of NaF and CCK-8 elicited similar increases in [Ca++]i and contraction in nonpermeabilized circular and longitudinal muscle cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Fourteen infants ranging in age from 18 days to 10 months (median age = 4 months) underwent surgical repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) between September, 1988 and December, 1989. The anomalous drainage was supracardiac in nine, cardiac in two, infracardiac in one and mixed in one. One patient had a complex type of TAPVC. There were two hospital deaths, one a critically ill three week old infant with obstructed infracardiac TAPVC and the other with complex TAPVC. There was no late death. All twelve survivors are in NYHA functional Class 1. Postoperative echocardiography revealed unobstructed pulmonary blood flow in all of them. Surgical correction of TAPVC in infancy has been performed with gratifying results. A high index of suspicion, early diagnosis, prompt referral and an aggressive surgical approach are essential for success in this otherwise lethal condition.

Advanced Architecture and Technology of Supercomputing Systems.- Parallel and Supercomputer Architecture in Japan.- FACOM VP2000 Series.- Expert Systems Based on Object Model - An Approach to Deep Knowledge Systems.- Trends in Expert Systems in Japan.- Computer Graphics and its Expansion to Image Industry.- Neurocomputers in Japan.- Advanced Communication Technology and OSI Oriented Academic Network TAINS.

A preliminary attempt was made for biological control of coconut leaf eating caterpillar, Opisina arenosella Walker, by releasing two Trichogramma species viz. T. chilonis Ishii and T. embryophagum Hartig @ 1,000 to 4,000 parasitised eggs per palm in Bangalore, India. The mean percent reduction in larval population by 75.6, 60.0, 33.3 and 50.0% in T. chilonis and 88.8%, 175.0, 66.7 and 75.0% in T. embryophagum was recorded in treated palms during 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th generation of the pest compared to untreated control. There was non- significant difference between various release rates irrespective of the species, indicating that lower release rate of 1,000 parasitised eggs/palm as adequate. On sentinel egg cards, parasitism was low 2.0 - 5.0%, 0.0 - 2.0% and 0.0% in T. chilonis, and T. embryophagum released palms and untreated control palms, respectively. The field trial gave an indication that Trichogramma could be a potential parasitoid against O. arenosella and it is suggested that the parasitoids could be released and tested on a large scale in endemic areas to authenticate efficacy.