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

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

Abstract The genus Gordonia includes variedly pigmented aerobic, non-motile, non-sporulating Gram positive (sometimes variable) coccoid forms and rods. Different isolates display distinguishing physiological traits and biochemical properties that are significant in remediation applications. Strains inherently prevalent in soils, seawater, sediments and wastewaters can degrade hydrocarbons. Immobilized cells and microbial consortia containing Gordonia species have been used for in situ applications. Hydrocarbon uptake in this Actinomycete is mediated by attachment to large droplets or by pseudosolubilization of substrates. Hydrocarbons so internalized are degraded by relevant enzymes that are innately present in this microorganism. Wild-type and recombinant strains also mediate desulfurization of polyaromatic sulfur heterocyclic compounds. This organism is metabolically capable of bringing about detoxification of phthalate esters. Two species namely, Gordonia polyisoprenivorans and Gordonia westfalica mediate degradation of rubber and the metabolic pathways involved in the process have been well-understood. Some members are able to transform nitriles into commercially valuable products and others degrade the explosive hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine. Cholesterol, pyridine derivatives, fuel oxygenates, thiodiglycol, bis-(3-pentafluorophenylpropyl)-sulfide and 6:2 fluorotelomersulfonate are also biotransformed or degraded by Gordonia species. Some members of this genus are significant in the treatment of wastewaters including those that are rich in steroids and lignin. There are also several patents highlighting the commercial relevance of this genus. On account of its diverse catabolic properties, this Actinomycete has become important in bioremediation of polluted environments. Highlights • Gordonia species have traits significant for bioremediation of polluted environments • They degrade different types of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons. • Some species desulfurize polyaromatic sulfur heterocyclic compounds. • This organism can detoxify phthalate esters, degrade rubber and transform nitriles. • RDX, cholesterol, pyridine, fuel oxygenates are also biotransformed or degraded. • There are several patents highlighting the commercial relevance of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Objective: To analyze the relationship between first-trimester levels of pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates and preterm births, and to assess predictive utility for these events.Methods: A prospective study was conducted among women undergoing first-trimester screening between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2013, at two centers in Pune, India. Serum PAPP-A levels, pregnancy course, and outcome were assessed.Results: Overall, 1474 women were included. An association was found between the lowest quintile of PAPP-A levels (<0.4 multiples of median) for both SGA (<10th centile; 20.9% of cases in this PAPP-A quintile) and preterm birth (<37weeks; 15.8%). Women in the lowest quintile of PAPP-A concentration had a significantly increased risk of SGA (<10th centile) than did those with higher concentrations (adjusted odds ratio 2.92, 95% confidence interval 2.00-4.27). Their risk of preterm birth (<37weeks) was also increased (adjusted odds ratio 1.84, 95% confidence interval 1.25-2.72). The predictive sensitivities of the lowest quintile of PAPP-A were 35.85% for SGA (<10th centile) and 27.92% for preterm birth (<37weeks).Conclusion: Low levels of PAPP-A were associated with SGA and preterm births; however, poor predictive sensitivity could restrict clinical utility of this marker when used alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

Introduction: Magnesium is an essential element that has numerous biological functions in the cardiovascular system. Hence, three hundred patients with known cardiovascular disease above the age of 25 years were studied to evaluate association between dietary and serum magnesium with cardiovascular risk factors. Materials and Methods: Patients were divided into three groups according to serum magnesium levels; ⩽1.6 (Group 1), >1.6-2.6 (Group 2) and: >2.6 mg/dl (Group 3), and into two groups according to dietary magnesium intake; ⩽350 mg/day (Group 1) and >350 mg/day (Group 2), respectively. Results: Mean age of patients was 60.97 ± 12.5 years. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, and LDL were significantly higher and HDL cholesterol significantly lower in group 1 when compared with group 2 and group 3. Diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension were negatively correlated with serum magnesium levels; which were maintained even after adjustment with age, sex, and anthropometric parameters in multiple regression analysis. Similar observations were observed in dietary magnesium intake except LDL and total cholesterol. Dietary magnesium was positively correlated with serum magnesium. Conclusions: Hypomagnesaemia and low dietary intake of magnesium are strongly related to cardiovascular risk factors among known subjects with coronary artery disease. Hence, magnesium supplementation may help in reducing cardiovascular disease [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Abstract: We examine the microscopic toughening mechanisms and their effect on the macroscopic failure response of heterogeneous adhesives made of stiff particles embedded in a more compliant matrix. The analysis relies on a multi-scale cohesive framework first described in Matouš et al. [Matouš, K., Kulkarni, M., Geubelle, P., 2008. Multiscale cohesive failure modeling of heterogeneous adhesives. Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids 56, 1511–1533]. Two microscopic constitutive failure models are incorporated: an isotropic damage model to capture the fracture response of the matrix and a cohesive law to model the inclusion-matrix interfacial debonding. A detailed study of the RVE size is presented followed by a set of examples that illustrate the effect of filler size, volume fraction and particle–matrix interface properties on the macroscopic effective traction-separation law of heterogeneous adhesives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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

The Claim definiteness requirement for patentability is spelt out in 35 U S C § 112 ¶b. Supreme Court in Nautilus v. Biosig (2014) opined that the claim is definite only when it serves public notice function rather than just be insolubly ambiguous. This investigation traces the evolution of claim definiteness standard since the inception of the patent law and presents summary of cases decided by the Courts. Our analysis of claim definiteness litigations shows that the claims in unpredictable arts are more likely to be challenged for definiteness than those in predictable arts. The analysis further reveals that the Supreme Court in its Nautilus decision, restored the claim definiteness standard consistent with that mandated by the statute. Based on analysis of case-law, we provide a framework for PHOSITA to ascertain the definiteness of a claim under reasonable certainty standard. Re-analysis of cases based on insolubly ambiguous and reasonable certainty standard respectively, showed that Court's decision would have differed in only 4 cases out of 17 cases decided. The paper also provides guidelines to draft claims which will survive Nautilus standard and identify claims which could be successfully challenged for indefiniteness. Overall it would help in enhancing patent quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

Four 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium halide ionic liquids were synthesized via metathesis and anion exchange reactions. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) colloids were synthesized in four ionic liquids in the pressurized reactor by reduction of silver nitrate with hydrogen gas, without adding solvents or stabilizing agents. Antibacterial activities of base ionic liquids and AgNPs colloids in ionic liquids were reviewed by well-diffusion method for gram-positive Bacillus cereus (NCIM-2155) and gram-negative Escherichia coli (NCIM-2931) bacteria. Antibacterial activities of ionic liquids and AgNPs colloids in ionic liquids were observed to be controlled by ionic liquids anions and AgNPs particle size. The 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide ionic liquid exhibited higher antibacterial activities among the studied ionic liquids. Further, the presence of AgNPs in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide, ionic liquid enhanced its antibacterial activity for Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli bacteria. Image 1 • Silver nanoparticles colloids were synthesized in ionic liquids. • Ionic liquid with iodide anion had excellent antibacterial activity. • Silver nanoparticles in ionic liquid improved its antibacterial activity. • Antibacterial activity of ionic liquid was governed by anion. • Antibacterial activity of silver colloids was influenced by particle size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gordonia amicalis HS-11 has been enriched from a hydrocarbon contaminated tropical soil sample. The ability of this organism to utilize a triterpenic polyunsaturated hydrocarbon, squalene (2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyl-6,6,10,14,18,20-tetracosahexane) and the model saturated hydrocarbon n- hexadecane is described here. The isolate degraded squalene and n- hexadecane (79 ± 3.02 and 96 ± 4.11%, respectively) after eight days of incubation. The isolate produced an extracellular biosurfactant that reduced surface tension from 69 ± 2.83 to 40 ± 1.63 and 35 ± 2.34 mN m−1 with squalene and n- hexadecane as carbon sources, respectively, after 6 days. The Actinomycete cleaved squalene to geranylacetone and farnesyl acetaldehyde that were further utilized for supporting growth. n -Hexadecane was degraded via monoterminal oxidation and activities of important enzymes (alkane hydroxylase and alcohol dehydrogenase) were highest (215 ± 8.76 and 169 ± 6.02 units mg−1 protein, respectively) after four days. Cells grown on squalene were short and with n- hexadecane there were clumps of longer cells. Squalene and n -hexadecane-grown cell surfaces were smooth possibly due to extracellular surface active compounds. While growing on hydrophobic substrates, some cells were seen adhering to droplets and others were in the free form. The culture was able to simultaneously degrade hydrocarbons and produce two commercially relevant value-added products. The yield of the extracellular biosurfactant on n -hexadecane was 480 mg l−1 and cells grown on squalene and n- hexadecane also yielded carotenoids (2.3 ± 0.14 and 2.9 ± 0.10 mg g−1 dry cell weight, respectively). This is the first report on the utilization of squalene by Gordonia. Image 1 • Gordonia amicalis HS11 aerobically degraded squalene and n- hexadecane. • Geranylacetone and farnesyl acetaldehyde were squalene degradation intermediates. • n -Hexadecane was degraded via monoterminal oxidation. • Distinct morphological features were observed on squalene and n- hexadecane. • The isolate produced emulsifier and carotenoids as value-added products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate chemical profile, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Indian Melifera propolis (IMP) samples collected from 13 different states. Chemical characterisation of ethanolic extracts of IMP (EEMP) samples was carried out by using HPLC and 1 HNMR spectroscopy. The antioxidant activity of EEMP samples was measured by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assay. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of each EEMP sample tested against bacteria and yeast using a 96 well plate microdilution method. All EEMP samples had remarkable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The antioxidant potential of EEMP samples found to have a moderate positive correlation with their total phenolics and flavonoids content. Majority of EEMP samples had a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≤ 1 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus . Chemometric analysis of 1 HNMR data indicated that brown, green, green-brown, red and red-brown coloured IMP samples were chemically distinct from each other, and showed two separate clusters for northern and southern states propolis samples. HPLC analysis confirmed phenethyl caffeate was most common and abundant compound in IMP samples among studied compounds. In conclusion, this study may be helpful for defining the quality of IMP as a raw material, and also in finished food and health care products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Actinomycete Gordonia amicalis HS-11 produced orange pigments when cultivated on n -hexadecane as the sole carbon source. When cells of this pigmented bacterium were incubated with 1 mM chloroauric acid (HAuCl 4 ) or silver nitrate (AgNO 3 ), pH 9.0, at 25 °C, gold and silver nanoparticles, respectively, were obtained in a cell associated manner. It was hypothesized that the pigments present in the cells may be mediating metal reduction reactions. After solvent extraction and High Performance Liquid Chromatography, two major pigments displaying UV–vis spectra characteristic of carotenoids were isolated. These were identified on the basis of Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry (APCI-MS) in the positive mode as 1′-OH-4-keto-γ-carotene (Carotenoid K) and 1′-OH-γ-carotene (Carotenoid B). The hydroxyl groups present in the carotenoids were eliminated under alkaline conditions and provided the reducing equivalents necessary for synthesizing nanoparticles. Cell associated and carotenoid stabilized nanoparticles were characterized by different analytical techniques. In vitro free radical scavenging activities of cells (control, gold and silver nanoparticle loaded), purified carotenoids and carotenoid stabilized gold and silver nanoparticles were evaluated. Silver nanoparticle loaded cells and carotenoid stabilized silver nanoparticles exhibited improved nitric oxide (NO) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activities compared to their control and gold counterparts. This paper thus reports cell associated nanoparticle synthesis by G. amicalis , describes for the first time the role of carotenoid pigments in metal reduction processes and demonstrates enhanced free radical scavenging activities of the carotenoid stabilized nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an abstract of "Formation of Linear Polymers with Pendant Vinyl Groups via Inclusion Complex Mediated Polymerization of Divinyl Monomers," by Sunita S. Satav, Rohini N. Karmaikar, Mohan G. Kulkarnim, Nagaraju Mulpuri and Narahari Sastry.

A bacterial isolate obtained from an oil-contaminated soil sample was identified as Gordonia amicalis on the basis of morphological features, biochemical traits and 16S rRNA gene sequence. The cell free supernatant (CFS) of this bacterium (cultivated on n -hexadecane) when incubated with 1 mM chloroauric acid (HAuCl 4 ) or silver nitrate (AgNO 3 ) at pH 9.0 in a boiling water bath mediated the synthesis of gold and silver nanoparticles, respectively. It was hypothesized that the CFS contained some thermostable biomolecule that mediated metal reduction reactions. Extraction of CFS with chloroform:methanol (2:1), subsequent column chromatography and thin layer chromatography led to the activity-guided purification of a glycolipid. The glycolipid was hydrolysed and the glycone (glucose) and aglycone components (three saturated fatty acids (myristic, palmitic and stearic) were identified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The reduction of glucose to gluconic acid under alkaline conditions provided the reducing equivalents needed for nanoparticle synthesis. The purified glycolipid and CFS mediated nanoparticles were characterized by using a UV–vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffractometer and Transmission Electron Microscope. The nanoparticles displayed free radical scavenging activities. This paper thus highlights nanoparticle synthesis by a hitherto unreported actinomycete culture, identifies the biomolecule involved in the process and describes the associated antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Background: Asymptomatic Indian lacto vegetarians, who make up more than half of the Indian population in different geographic regions, have distinctly low vitamin B-12 concentrations than non- vegetarians. Vegetarians consume milk but it seems that the amount is not enough to improve vitamin B-12 status or vitamin B-12 concentration in milk itself may be low. The aim of this study was to determine if daily milk consumption can improve vitamin B-12 status.Methods: Fifteen male and 36 female, young healthy post-graduate volunteers participated. Blood from ten participants (4 males and 6 females) was collected (day-1). They continued their regular diet for next fourteen days and on day-15, blood of all 51 participants was collected, plasma vitamin B-12 concentration was measured and were divided into two groups; Normal (vitamin B-12 >148 pmol/L, n = 22) and Vitamin B-12 deficient (<148 pmol/L, n = 29), the remaining plasma was stored. All participants consumed 600 ml. of non-enriched buffalo milk (200 × 3) during the day along with their usual diet. Next day blood was collected for plasma holotranscobalamin II measurement. Subjects from deficient group continued to drink 400 ml of milk daily for next 14 days and blood was collected on day-30. Plasma holotranscoabalamin II (day-1, 15, 16, 30), vitamin B-12, folate, total homocysteine, creatinine and hematoloical parameters (day-1, 15, 30), and milk vitamin B-12 concentrations (day-15, 16, 30) were measured.Results: Fifty seven per cent of the participants were vitamin B-12 deficient and 65% were hyperhomocysteinemic. No significant difference in biomarkers was observed when there was no intervention. Plasma holotranscobalamin II concentration increased from 19.6 to 22.27 pmol/L (p < 0.0001) 24 hrs after milk load in the whole group. Plasma vitamin B-12 increased from 92.5 to 122 pmol/L and tHcy concentrations decreased from 31.9 to 24.9 μ mol/L (p < 0.0001 for both) 14 days after regular milk intake in vitamin B-12 deficient subjects.Conclusions: Regular intake of milk improved vitamin B-12 status of vitamin B-12 deficient vegetarians indicating a potential dietary strategy to improve the vitamin status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]