Variations in the morphology of stylomastoid foramen: a possible solution to the conundrum of unexplained cases of Bell's palsy

BACKGROUND

Stylomastoid foramen is the terminal part of facial canal and is the exit gateway for facial nerve from skull base. We hypothesized that anatomical variations of this foramen could be a risk factor for the injury of facial nerve resulting in unilateral facial nerve paralysis or Bell's palsy. Hence the present study was conducted to study the variations in size and shape of stylomastoid foramen in dry adult human skulls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted on 37 dry adult human skulls of unknown age and sex. High resolution images of the skulls under study were processed by ImageJ software and observations were undertaken.

RESULTS

Total eight variations of stylomastoid foramen were observed in terms of shape. The common variants were round, oval and square (present in 83.79% skulls on right side and 81.07% skulls on left side), whereas the rare variants were triangular, rectangular, serrated, bean-shaped and irregular. It was noted that stylomastoid foramen were associated with extensions (45.95% skulls) and also adjacent foramen (18.92% skulls). Exclusively unilateral observations included bifurcation of foramen (16.22% skulls), foramen situated deep inside skull groove (5.41% skulls) and foramen interrupted by bony spur (2.7% skulls). No significant differences were observed between the mean diameters (antero-posterior and transverse) of the stylomastoid foramen.

CONCLUSIONS

The unilateral variations along with rare variations in terms of shape such as serrated, bean-shaped and irregular foramen (which were also unilateral findings) could be potential risk factors towards injury of facial nerve at the point of exit from skull base leading to Bell's palsy.

Surface Activities of a Lipid Analogue Room-Temperature Ionic Liquid and Its Effects on Phospholipid Membrane

There are great efforts of synthesizing imidazolium-based ionic liquids (ILs) for developing new antibiotics as these molecules have shown strong antibacterial activities. Compared to a single-hydrocarbon-chained IL, the lipid analogues (LAs) with two chains are more effective. In the present study, the LA molecule ^MeIm(COOH)^Me(Oleylamine)Iodide has been synthesized and its surface activities along with the effectiveness in restructuring of a model cellular membrane have been quantified. The molecule is found to be highly surface active as estimated from the area-pressure isotherm of a monolayer of the molecules formed at the air-water interface. The X-ray reflectivity (XRR) studies of a monolayer dip-coated on a hydrophilic substrate have shown the structural properties of the layer which resembles to those of unsaturated phospholipids. The LA molecules are observed to fluidize a phospholipid bilayer formed by the saturated lipid 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC). At a lower surface pressure, the lipid monolayer of DPPC has exhibited a thickening effect at a low concentration of added LA and a thinning effect at higher concentration. However, at a high surface pressure of the monolayer, the thickness is found to decrease monotonically. The in-plane pressure-dependent interaction of LA molecules with model cellular membrane and the corresponding perturbation in the structure and physical properties of the membrane may be linked to the strong lysing effect of these types of molecules.

Measurement of ϒ(1S) Elliptic Flow at Forward Rapidity in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

The first measurement of the ϒ(1S) elliptic flow coefficient (v_{2}) is performed at forward rapidity (2.5<y<4) in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV with the ALICE detector at the LHC. The results are obtained with the scalar product method and are reported as a function of transverse momentum (p_{T}) up to 15  GeV/c in the 5%-60% centrality interval. The measured ϒ(1S)v_{2} is consistent with 0 and with the small positive values predicted by transport models within uncertainties. The v_{2} coefficient in 2<p_{T}<15  GeV/c is lower than that of inclusive J/ψ mesons in the same p_{T} interval by 2.6 standard deviations. These results, combined with earlier suppression measurements, are in agreement with a scenario in which the ϒ(1S) production in Pb-Pb collisions at LHC energies is dominated by dissociation limited to the early stage of the collision, whereas in the J/ψ case there is substantial experimental evidence of an additional regeneration component.

Investigations of Anisotropic Flow Using Multiparticle Azimuthal Correlations in pp, p-Pb, Xe-Xe, and Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

Measurements of anisotropic flow coefficients (v_{n}) and their cross-correlations using two- and multiparticle cumulant methods are reported in collisions of pp at sqrt[s]=13  TeV, p-Pb at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, Xe-Xe at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.44  TeV, and Pb-Pb at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV recorded with the ALICE detector. The multiplicity dependence of v_{n} is studied in a very wide range from 20 to 3000 particles produced in the midrapidity region |η|<0.8 for the transverse momentum range 0.2<p_{T}<3.0  GeV/c. An ordering of the coefficients v_{2}>v_{3}>v_{4} is found in pp and p-Pb collisions, similar to that seen in large collision systems, while a weak v_{2} multiplicity dependence is observed relative to nucleus-nucleus collisions in the same multiplicity range. Using a novel subevent method, v_{2} measured with four-particle cumulants is found to be compatible with that from six-particle cumulants in pp and p-Pb collisions. The magnitude of the correlation between v_{n}^{2} and v_{m}^{2}, evaluated with the symmetric cumulants SC(m,n) is observed to be positive at all multiplicities for v_{2} and v_{4}, while for v_{2} and v_{3} it is negative and changes sign for multiplicities below 100, which may indicate a different v_{n} fluctuation pattern in this multiplicity range. The observed long-range multiparticle azimuthal correlations in high multiplicity pp and p-Pb collisions can neither be described by pythia 8 nor by impact-parameter-Glasma, music, and ultrarelativistic quantum molecular dynamics model calculations, and hence, provide new insights into the understanding of collective effects in small collision systems.

First Observation of an Attractive Interaction between a Proton and a Cascade Baryon

This Letter presents the first experimental observation of the attractive strong interaction between a proton and a multistrange baryon (hyperon) Ξ^{-}. The result is extracted from two-particle correlations of combined p-Ξ^{-}⊕p[over ¯]-Ξ[over ¯]^{+} pairs measured in p-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV at the LHC with ALICE. The measured correlation function is compared with the prediction obtained assuming only an attractive Coulomb interaction and a standard deviation in the range [3.6, 5.3] is found. Since the measured p-Ξ^{-}⊕p[over ¯]-Ξ[over ¯]^{+} correlation is significantly enhanced with respect to the Coulomb prediction, the presence of an additional, strong, attractive interaction is evident. The data are compatible with recent lattice calculations by the HAL-QCD Collaboration, with a standard deviation in the range [1.8, 3.7]. The lattice potential predicts a shallow repulsive Ξ^{-} interaction within pure neutron matter and this implies stiffer equations of state for neutron-rich matter including hyperons. Implications of the strong interaction for the modeling of neutron stars are discussed.

Strategies to Minimize Various Stress-Related Freeze-Thaw Damages During Conventional Cryopreservation of Mammalian Spermatozoa

The aim of the article is to report a review on different sperm cryopreservation techniques, various stress-related freeze-thaw damages altering sperm structure and function during conventional cryopreservation, and strategies to minimize these stresses. Sperm cryopreservation has allowed indefinite storage and successful transportation of valuable germplasm from proven sites at distant locations, for genetic upgradation through implementation of reproductive techniques, such as artificial insemination. Different techniques for sperm cryopreservation have been proposed such as conventional freezing techniques, directional freezing, and sperm vitrification. Drawbacks related to conventional freezing methods, such as heterogeneous ice nucleation and repeated freeze-thaw cycles at the ice front that disrupts and kill sperm cells, led to the emergence of the directional freezing technique. Sperm vitrification is advantageous as there is no ice crystal-induced physical damages to sperm. However, sperm vitrification has less applicability as encouraging results are only reported in human, dog, and cat. In spite of several drawbacks, conventional freezing techniques are still most widely used for sperm cryopreservation. Spermatozoa experience stresses in the form of cold shock, osmotic stress, and mainly oxidative stress during conventional cryopreservation ultimately reduces the sperm viability and fertility. Several attempts have been made in the past to minimize all these stresses individually or in combination. Membrane fluidity was increased to prevent the cold shock and cryocapacitation-like changes by the addition of cholesterol to the membrane. Antifreeze proteins were added in semen extender to minimize freeze-thaw damages due to heterogeneous ice nucleation and ice recrystallization. Oxidative stress was reduced either by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) through enzymatic, nonenzymatic, plant-based antioxidants or reductants; or by minimizing the level of sources like the semen radiation exposure, leucocytes, and dead and defective spermatozoa, which lead to ROS production during the semen cryopreservation process. A novel approach of minimizing oxidative stress was to reduce the oxygen tension in sperm microenvironment that is, extender by partial deoxygenation process, as a number of literatures pointed out direct link of O₂ with ROS production. When compared with other strategies, partial deoxygenation of semen extender with N₂ gassing is found as a cost-effective, comparatively easy and a potential approach to large-scale frozen semen production.

A brief review of recent discoveries in human anatomy

In the last few years, a cluster of anatomical discoveries has been reported which overturned the long existing dogmas about the structure and function of human body. First to come was the discovery that established the existence of a lymphatic system pertaining to the central nervous system (CNS). CNS was believed to be anatomically immune privileged owing to the absence of any lymphatics and presence of the blood-brain barrier around it, but latest research has established beyond any reasonable doubt that true lymphatic channels carry immune cells in meninges thus challenging the existing theory. Studies also supported the presence of a 'Glymphatic system' (created by the perivascular spaces lined with the leptomeninges and a sheath of glial cells) in the CNS draining interstitial metabolic waste from CNS. The second discovery unraveled the previously unknown parts of the human mesentery in adult and established that it is a continuous entity all along the intra-abdominal gut tube against the previous notion that it is fragmented in the adult humans. A very recently reported third discovery demonstrated a previously unknown tissue component-'interstitium'-a networked collagen bound fluid-filled space existent in a number of human organs. All these structures bear considerable applied importance towards the pathogenesis, prognostic and diagnostic investigations and management of human diseases. This article attempts to present a brief review of all three remarkable discoveries and emphasizes their applied importance within the realm of medical sciences.

Azimuthal Anisotropy of Heavy-Flavor Decay Electrons in p-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

Angular correlations between heavy-flavor decay electrons and charged particles at midrapidity (|η|<0.8) are measured in p-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. The analysis is carried out for the 0%-20% (high) and 60%-100% (low) multiplicity ranges. The jet contribution in the correlation distribution from high-multiplicity events is removed by subtracting the distribution from low-multiplicity events. An azimuthal modulation remains after removing the jet contribution, similar to previous observations in two-particle angular correlation measurements for light-flavor hadrons. A Fourier decomposition of the modulation results in a positive second-order coefficient (v_{2}) for heavy-flavor decay electrons in the transverse momentum interval 1.5<p_{T}<4  GeV/c in high-multiplicity events, with a significance larger than 5σ. The results are compared with those of charged particles at midrapidity and those of inclusive muons at forward rapidity. The v_{2} measurement of open heavy-flavor particles at midrapidity in small collision systems could provide crucial information to help interpret the anisotropies observed in such systems.

A comparative study of treatment outcome in younger and older patients with locally advanced oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers treated by chemoradiation

Background:

Evidence suggests that older patients with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers may behave differently from their younger peers.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to determine if there is difference in responses, survival, and toxicities between young patients (≤40 years of age) with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers and older patients (>40 years of age) treated with concurrent chemoradiation.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty-one patients with unresectable, locally advanced oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers received concomitant chemoradiation to a dose of 70 Gray in 35 fractions over 7 weeks with concomitant weekly cisplatin (40 mg/m²). These patients were then distributed in two arms. Arm-A patients having age ≤40 years and Arm-B patients having age >40 years, and the two arms were assessed for treatment outcome.

Results:

The overall response rate (complete responders + partial responders) evaluated using response evaluation criteria in solid tumors criteria version 1.1 was equivalent in both groups (80.76% in Arm-A and 74.28% in Arm-B; P = 0.93). Older patients (>40 years) experienced more acute mucositis and xerostomia (P < 0.5); although not statistically significant, more acute skin and pharynx toxicities were also observed in this group. Higher late salivary gland toxicity (P < 0.5) was also seen in older patients; however, disease-free survival and progression-free survival were found to be similar in both groups.

Conclusions:

Older patients with locally advanced oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers have similar response rates and survival as compared to their younger counterparts but may experience higher treatment-related toxicities.

Time-Reversal Symmetry Breaking in Re-Based Superconductors

To trace the origin of time-reversal symmetry breaking (TRSB) in Re-based superconductors, we performed comparative muon-spin rotation and relaxation (μSR) studies of superconducting noncentrosymmetric Re_{0.82}Nb_{0.18} (T_{c}=8.8  K) and centrosymmetric Re (T_{c}=2.7  K). In Re_{0.82}Nb_{0.18}, the low-temperature superfluid density and the electronic specific heat evidence a fully gapped superconducting state, whose enhanced gap magnitude and specific-heat discontinuity suggest a moderately strong electron-phonon coupling. In both Re_{0.82}Nb_{0.18} and pure Re, the spontaneous magnetic fields revealed by zero-field μSR below T_{c} indicate time-reversal symmetry breaking and thus unconventional superconductivity. The concomitant occurrence of TRSB in centrosymmetric Re and noncentrosymmetric ReT (T=transition metal), yet its preservation in the isostructural noncentrosymmetric superconductors Mg_{10}Ir_{19}B_{16} and Nb_{0.5}Os_{0.5}, strongly suggests that the local electronic structure of Re is crucial for understanding the TRSB superconducting state in Re and ReT. We discuss the superconducting order parameter symmetries that are compatible with the experimental observations.

Small-scale (Phase II) evaluation of the efficacy and residual activity of SumiShield® 50 WG (clothianidin 50%, w/w) for indoor residual spraying in comparison to deltamethrin, bendiocarb and pirimiphos-methyl for malaria vector control in Karnataka state, India

Background & objectives

There is an urgent need of introducing new insecticide molecules with novel modes of action to counter the ever growing insecticide-resistance in mosquito vectors. In the present study, a new insecticide molecule, SumiShield 50 WG (clothianidin 50%, w/w) was investigated for its efficacy as an indoor residual spray along with its residual action in comparison to deltamethrin, pirimiphos-methyl and bendiocarb.

Methods

The study area included three villages in Almatti Dam catchment area in Bagalkot district, Karnataka, India. Spraying was done using Hudson sprayers with the following dosages-Clothianidin, 300 mg AI/m²; deltamethrin, 25 mg AI/m²; bendiocarb, 400 mg AI/m²; and pirimiphos-methyl, 1 g AI/m². Cone bioassays were conducted on cement and mud plastered surfaces at fortnightly intervals to assess the bioefficacy and residual activity. Mosquito densities in the sprayed houses were recorded at regular intervals for assessment of the insecticidal efficacy. Filter paper samples collected from the sprayed houses were analyzed for insecticide content sprayed on different wall surfaces at the Walloon Agricultural Research Institute, Gembloux, Belgium.

Results

Chemical content analysis of filter paper samples revealed that the applied to target ratios were in the acceptable range (1 + 0.5) for all the treatment types. Duration of persistence of effectiveness of bendiocarb (≥80% mortality in cone bioassays) was 19 to 21 wk on cement plastered surfaces and 15 to 19 wk on mud plastered surfaces. Duration of persistence of effectiveness of deltamethrin was 17 to 21 wk on both mud and cement plastered surfaces and that of pirimiphos-methyl was 15 to 19 wk. For SumiShield, it was 17 to 25 wk on both types of surfaces, indicating slow action of SumiShield. The densities of Anopheles culicifacies were lower in bendiocarb sprayed houses throughout the observation period, followed by pirimiphos methyl, deltamethrin and clothianidin sprayed houses. In case of other mosquitoes also, similar trend was observed.

Interpretation & conclusion

Considering the persistence of effectiveness of SumiShield on sprayed surfaces, effectiveness in reducing the density of mosquitoes, operational feasibility, safety and community acceptance, the formulation of clothianidin is a better option for IRS for the control of insecticide-resistant mosquito vectors.

Interface induced magnetic properties of Gd/Co heterostructures

Antiferromagnetic coupling between rare-earth and transition metal ferromagnetic layers gives rise to various magnetic ground states in heterostructures of these materials. Interface structure and morphology tend to play important roles in magnetic properties of such systems. Interface induced magnetization in Gd/Co heterostructures has been studied using a combination of structural and magnetic characterization techniques. The interface morphology of the Gd/Co system was varied by growing Gd/Co multilayers using magnetron sputtering under different argon partial pressures. Interfacial properties were further modified by annealing the multilayers under high vacuum. The macroscopic magnetization measurements have been correlated with depth dependent structure and magnetic properties of multilayers studied using X-ray and polarized neutron reflectometry techniques. Secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements from both as-deposited and annealed samples also confirmed modification at the interfaces. It has been shown that the interface structure, together with roughness, leads to a unique low-temperature magnetic phase characterized by twisting of Gd and Co moments.

Unique reversibility in extraction mechanism of U compared to solvent extraction for sorption of U(VI) and Pu(IV) by a novel solvent impregnated resin containing trialkyl phosphine oxide functionalized ionic liquid

Novel Solvent Impregnated Resin (SIR) material was prepared by impregnating a trialkyl phosphine oxide functionalized ionic liquid (IL) into an inert polymeric material XAD-7. A series of SIR materials were prepared by varying the IL quantity. Sorption of both U(VI) and Pu(IV) were found to increase with increasing IL concentration in SIR up to an optimum IL concentration of 435 mg g^-1 of SIR beyond which no effect of IL concentration was observed. A change of mechanism of sorption for U(VI) by SIR was observed in comparison to solvent extraction. The dependency of U(VI) sorption with nitric acid concentration showed a reverse trend compared to solvent extraction studies while for Pu(IV) the trend remained same as observed with solvent extraction. Sorption of both the radionuclides was found to follow pseudo second order mechanism and Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Distribution co-efficient measurements on IL impregnated SIR showed highly selective sorption of U(VI) and Pu(IV) over other trivalent f-elements and fission products from nitric acid medium.

Structural changes in cellular membranes induced by ionic liquids: From model to bacterial membranes

Ionic liquids (ILs) have generated considerable attention recently because of their cytotoxicity and application as antibiotics. However, the mechanism of how they damage cell membranes is not currently well understood. In this paper, the antibacterial activities of two imidazolium-based ILs, namely 1-butyl- 3-methylimidazolium tetrafluroborate ([BMIM][BF4]) and 1-ethyl- 3-methylimidazolium tetrafluroborate ([EMIM][BF4]) have been investigated. The activity of [BMIM][BF4] on gram negative bacteria E. coli is observed to be stronger compared with the short chained [EMIM][BF4]. To explain this observation, the effects of these ILs on the self-assembled structures of model cellular membranes have been investigated. The in-plane elasticity of a monolayer formed at air-water interface by 1,2-dipalmitoyl- sn-glycero- 3-phosphocholine (DPPC) lipids was reduced in the presence of the ILs. The x-ray reflectivity studies on polymer supported lipid bilayer have shown the bilayer to shrink and correspondingly exhibit an increase in electron density. The presence of a certain mol% of negatively charged lipid, 1,2-dipalmitoyl-rac-glycero-3-phospho-L-serine (DPPS), in DPPC mono- and bi-layers enhances the effect considerably.

Trends in the prescribing of topical nasal agents Using an NHS England data base

OBJECTIVES

Our aim is to present data depicting geographical prescribing trends and expenditure related to topical nasal agent prescriptions across clinical commissioning groups (CCG's) in England. We assess if prescribing trends can act as a surrogate marker for allergic rhinitis (AR) and rhinosinusitis disease burden (RS).

DESIGN

NHS England primary care prescriptions dispensed for topical drugs used in nasal allergy (BNF chapter 12.2.1) were accessed using OpenPrescribing beta software. Graphical data over a 5-year period was generated to highlight nationwide trends in prescribing and expenditure. Out of 211 CCG districts, the highest and lowest 40 prescribing rate CCG's were subdivided according to rural/urban output and geographical location to highlight specific regional trends. Two sampled, paired and unpaired t tests of unequal variance were performed to determine the significance of observed trends.

RESULTS

The 5-year trend in prescription rate (mean yearly expenditure £40 725 258) for drugs used in nasal allergy marginally increased. Peak prescription was during months of high environmental pollen. Regardless of pollen season (June 2016 vs November 2015), CCG's of urban districts had significantly lower rates of prescribing (P ≤ .001). Amongst the 40 lowest and 40 highest prescribing rate CCG's, prescription rates fell significantly between months of high and low environmental pollen (P ≤ .0001). Regardless of pollen season, rural eastern and eastern coastal districts of England had persistently high rates of prescription.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows marked geographical variation in prescribing for topical nasal agents in England. There is propensity for eastern districts to have higher rates of prescribing in England. Adopting prescribing trends as a surrogate marker for disease burden could allow allergy and endoscopic sinus surgery services to be concentrated to specific regions. This would provide more effective, economical treatment for both AR and RS.

Village-scale (Phase III) evaluation of the efficacy and residual activity of SumiShield® 50 WG (Clothianidin 50%, w/w) for indoor spraying for the control of pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles culicifacies Giles in Karnataka state, India

OBJECTIVE

There is an urgent need to test and incorporate new molecules with promising efficacy and novel mode of action to control insecticide-resistant mosquito vectors for disease control. We tested a new compound, clothianidin (SumiShield 50 WG), for its efficacy as an indoor residual spray (IRS) for the control of pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles culicifacies (Diptera: Culicidae) in comparison with pirimiphos methyl (Actellic CS) as a positive control.

METHODS

Ten villages were selected, five each for IRS with clothianidin (300 mg AI/m² ) and pirimiphos methyl (1000 mg AI/m² ) in Almatti Dam catchment area in Karnataka state, India. Entomological parameters were monitored in these sprayed villages using standard methods. Assessment of quality of spray was performed by analysing the insecticide content in the filter paper samples collected from sprayed houses. Perceptions of spray men and inhabitants were recorded post-spray on safety of these molecules.

RESULTS

The mean applied to target ratio of content was 1.7 (n = 29) for clothianidin and 1.8 (n = 50) for pirimiphos methyl on filter paper samples analysed. Residual activity (≥80% mortality in exposed mosquitoes) after 24 h post-exposure of SumiShield WG was 5 months and increased to 6 months when the holding period was extended to 120 h and that of Actellic CS was 3 months at 24-h holding period and extended to 4 months at 120-h extended holding period. The mean densities of An. culicifacies in both arms fell drastically post-spray. In light trap collections, density of mosquitoes collected indoors was lower than outdoors in both arms indicating effectiveness of IRS. SumiShield WG was more efficacious in reducing the per-structure density than Actellic CS. The proportion of nulliparous mosquitoes was higher than that of parous mosquitoes during post-spray collections in both arms. The majority of adverse events reported were transitory and subsided without medication.

CONCLUSION

Indoor residual spraying with SumiShield WG was found effective, operationally feasible and safe, and it is effective for up to 6 months.

Absence of a long-range ordered magnetic ground state in Pr3Rh4Sn13 studied through specific heat and inelastic neutron scattering

Signatures of absence of a long-range ordered magnetic ground state down to 0.36 K are observed in magnetic susceptibility, specific heat, thermal/electrical transport and inelastic neutron scattering data of the quasi-skutterudite compound Pr₃Rh₄Sn₁₃ which crystallizes in the Yb₃Rh₄Sn₁₃-type structure with a cage-like network of Sn atoms. In this structure, Pr³⁺ occupies a lattice site with D _2d point symmetry having a ninefold degeneracy corresponding to J  =  4. The magnetic susceptibility of Pr₃Rh₄Sn₁₃ shows only a weak temperature dependence below 10 K; otherwise remaining paramagnetic-like in the range, 10 K-300 K. From the inelastic neutron scattering intensity of Pr₃Rh₄Sn₁₃ recorded at different temperatures, we identify excitations at 4.5(7) K, 5.42(6) K, 10.77(5) K, 27.27(5) K, 192.28(4) K and 308.33(3) K through a careful peak analysis. However, no signatures of long-range magnetic order are observed in the neutron data down to 1.5 K, which is also confirmed by the specific heat data down to 0.36 K. A broad Schottky-like peak is recovered for the magnetic part of the specific heat, C _4f, which suggests the role of crystal electric fields of Pr³⁺ . A crystalline electric field model consisting of 7 levels was applied to C _4f which leads to the estimation of energy levels at 4.48(2) K, 6.94(4) K, 11.23(8) K, 27.01(5) K, 193.12(6) K and 367.30(2) K. The CEF energy levels estimated from the heat capacity analysis are in close agreement with the excitation energies seen in the neutron data. The Sommerfeld coefficient estimated from the analysis of magnetic specific heat is [Formula: see text] mJ K^-2 mol-Pr which suggests the formation of heavy itinerant quasi-particles in Pr₃Rh₄Sn₁₃. Combining inelastic neutron scattering results, analysis of the specific heat data down to 0.36 K, magnetic susceptibility and, electrical and thermal transport, we establish the absence of long-range ordered magnetic ground state in Pr₃Rh₄Sn₁₃.

Nucleotide variability of protamine genes influencing bull sperm motility variables

Protamines (PRMs), important proteins of chromatin condensation in spermiogenesis, are promising candidate genes to explore markers of sperm motility. The coding and in-silico predicted promoter regions of these genes were investigated in 102 crossbred and 32 purebred cattle. Also, mRNA quantification was done to explore its possibility as diagnostic tool of infertility. The PCR-SSCP analysis indicated there were two band patterns only in fragment I of the PRM1 and fragment II of the PRM2 gene. The sequence analysis revealed A152G and G179A transitions in the PRM1 gene. Similarly, G35A, A49G and A64G transitions were identified in the PRM2 gene which resulted in altered amino acid sequences from arginine (R) to glutamine (Q), from arginine (R) to glycine (G) and from arginine (R) to glycine (G), respectively. This caused the reduction in molecular weight of PRM2 from 2157.66 to 1931.33 Da due to reduction in the number of basic amino acids. These altered properties of the PRM2 protein led to the reduction in Mass Motility (MM: P < 0.01), Initial Progressive Motility (IPM; P < 0.05) and Post Thaw Motility (PTM; P < 0.05) in crossbred bulls. The least squares analysis of variance indicated there was an effect of PRM2 haplotypes on MM (P = 0.0069), IPM (P = 0.0306) and PTM (P = 0.0500) in crossbred cattle and on PTM (P = 0.0408) in the overall cattle population. Based on the RT-qPCR analysis, however, there was not any significant variation of PRM1 and PRM2 gene expression among sperm of Vrindavani bulls with relatively lesser and greater sperm motility.

D-Meson Azimuthal Anisotropy in Midcentral Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s]_{NN}=5.02 TeV

The azimuthal anisotropy coefficient v_{2} of prompt D^{0}, D^{+}, D^{*+}, and D_{s}^{+} mesons was measured in midcentral (30%-50% centrality class) Pb-Pb collisions at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, with the ALICE detector at the LHC. The D mesons were reconstructed via their hadronic decays at midrapidity, |y|<0.8, in the transverse momentum interval 1<p_{T}<24  GeV/c. The measured D-meson v_{2} has similar values as that of charged pions. The D_{s}^{+} v_{2}, measured for the first time, is found to be compatible with that of nonstrange D mesons. The measurements are compared with theoretical calculations of charm-quark transport in a hydrodynamically expanding medium and have the potential to constrain medium parameters.

Abstract P1-01-03: Preclinical evidence that distant metastases occur via the lymphatic route

Cancer that metastasizes beyond the lymph nodes is almost invariably terminal. Therefore, understanding how cancer metastasizes is a critical aspect to understanding and eventually preventing cancer spreading from tissue to tissue. A major question that remains controversial is whether cancer cells that metastasize to the LNs are able to physically leave the LNs to colonize distant tissues. Moreover, whether cancer cell metastasis between different tissues involves unique genes is a question that requires further research. Using the metastatic mouse breast carcinoma line 4T1 in an LN microinjection model, we provide evidence suggesting that cancer cells can indeed metastasize and colonize distant tissues after direct implantation into the LNs. Interestingly, direct comparison of distant tissue metastatic capability comparing LN-microinjected cells and tail vein-injected cells suggests that the lymphatic route of cancer cell spreading may be a more efficient mechanism of metastasis than the hematogenous route. Moreover, our comparative transcriptome analysis results suggest that LN metastases show unique gene expression profiles relative to the primary breast tumors and distant metastases. We identified several genes that are up- or down-regulated in an LN-specific manner and thus may play a role in metastasis to the LNs and beyond. Collectively, our results suggest that LN metastases constitute an active “staging site” from which breast cancer cells can further metastasize to distant sites. Furthermore, we identify a unique set of genes that may be involved in the breast cancer metastatic process, several of which are potentially targetable using currently available inhibitors.

Citation Format: Leslie PL, Ghosh SK, Porrello A, Cooley BC, Pecot CV. Preclinical evidence that distant metastases occur via the lymphatic route [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-01-03.

Organic zinc and copper supplementation on antioxidant protective mechanism and their correlation with sperm functional characteristics in goats

Trace minerals feeding had significant effects on sperm production and fertility with better absorption and proper utilization within the body for optimum reproductive function. Several studies have shown that more influenced trace elements in the diets of animals are copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn). Bucks showing deficiency of this mineral might affect the quality of semen production which in turn would affect the fertility. This experiment was thus designed to test the effects of organic Cu and Zn supplementation on antioxidants enzyme activities and sperm functional attributes in fresh semen of bucks. Forty bucks (n = 40, Aged 5 months) were assigned to ten groups of four animals in each group, supplemented (for a period of 8 months) with different levels of organic Zn: 20 mg (T2), 40 mg (T3) and 60 mg (T4), organic Cu: 12.5 mg (T5), 25 mg (T6), 37.5 mg (T7) and combined organic Zn and Cu: 20 + 12.5 mg (T8), 40 + 25 mg (T9), 60 + 37.5 mg (T10), respectively, per kg dry matter and no additional mineral diet (control; T1). One hundred and sixty semen samples were collected through electro-ejaculator and analysed for sperm quantity, quality, acrosome intactness and plasma membrane integrity and correlated with the catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzyme activities in seminal plasma. The results indicated organic Cu and zinc supplemented bucks produced more sperm cells, had higher sperm concentrations, maintained higher (p < .01) sperm livability, plasma membrane and acrosome integrities, more motility and velocity. The increased antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced oxidative stress and lowered lipid peroxidation were positively correlated (p < .05) with the sperm functional attributes. In conclusion, organic Cu and Zn supplement to male goats showed protective roles against oxidative damage and maintained better fresh semen characteristics.

Study on correlation of sperm quality parameters with antioxidant and oxidant status of buffalo bull semen during various stages of cryopreservation

This investigation was carried out to study the correlation of sperm quality parameters with antioxidant and oxidant status of buffalo bull semen during various stages of cryopreservation. Semen samples were evaluated for sperm parameters (mass motility [MM], concentration [CON], progressive motility [PM], viability [VIB], acrosomal integrity [AI] and hypo-osmotic swelling [HOS] response), antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], glutathione peroxidase [GPx] and total antioxidant capacity [TAC]) and oxidants (Lipid peroxidation [LPO] and reactive oxygen species [ROS]) at fresh, pre-freeze and post-thaw stages. Sperm parameters (PM, VIB, AI and HOS response) and antioxidants (SOD, CAT and TAC) were significantly (p < .05) reduced at fresh stage, and oxidants (LPO and ROS) were significantly (p < .05) increased at pre-freeze and post-thaw stages. At fresh stage, MM was negatively correlated with LPO (p < .05), and CON was positively correlated with SOD, TAC and CAT, negatively correlated with LPO and CAT was positively (p < .01) correlated with VIB and HOS response. At pre-freeze stage, CAT was positively correlated with PM and AI (p < .05), and AI was negatively (p < .05) correlated with ROS. At post-thaw stage, CAT was positively correlated with PM, VIB, HOS response and AI,, and LPO was negatively correlated with HOS, AI and VIB. The study of correlations of these parameters at different preservation stages with bull fertility may play an important role in developing models for predicting future fertility of bulls in the absence of conception rate data.

Thermodynamics of interaction of ionic liquids with lipid monolayer

Understanding the interaction of ionic liquids with cellular membrane becomes utterly important to comprehend the activities of these liquids in living organisms. Lipid monolayer formed at the air-water interface is employed as a model system to follow this interaction by investigating important thermodynamic parameters. The penetration kinetics of the imidazolium-based ionic liquid 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([DMIM][BF4]) into the zwitterionic 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) lipid layer is found to follow the Boltzmann-like equation that reveals the characteristic time constant which is observed to be the function of initial surface pressure. The enthalpy and entropy calculated from temperature-dependent pressure-area isotherms of the monolayer show that the added ionic liquids bring about a disordering effect in the lipid film. The change in Gibbs free energy indicates that an ionic liquid with longer chain has a far greater disordering effect compared to an ionic liquid with shorter chain. The differential scanning calorimetric measurement on a multilamellar vesicle system shows the main phase transition temperature to shift to a lower value, which, again, indicates the disordering effect of the ionic liquid on lipid membrane. All these studies fundamentally point out that, when ionic liquids interact with lipid molecules, the self-assembled structure of a cellular membrane gets perturbed, which may be the mechanism of these molecules having adverse effects on living organisms.

Effect of Liquid Nitrogen Flushing of Extender on Seminal Antioxidant Profile of Murrah Buffalo during Cryopreservation

BACKGROUND

The dissolved oxygen in the extender may act as a source for the production of reactive oxygen species that may lead to reduced seminal antioxidant profile which in turn may be responsible for impaired frozen thawed sperm quality and fertility.

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of adding liquid nitrogen into the extender on semen freezability and seminal antioxidant profile in buffalo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Semen extender was prepared freshly and divided into two sub extenders namely, Extender I: control (non deoxygenated) and Extender II: partially deoxygenated by using LN₂ flushing). The estimation of dissolved oxygen (DO) level was done in both extenders. Semen samples with mass motility of ≥ 3+ and individual progressive motility of 70% and above, collected from murrah buffalo bulls were utilized for the present study. Each semen sample was split into two group's viz., group I: diluted with extender I and group II: diluted with extender II up to 60×10⁶ sperm/mL. The diluted semen samples were packed into French mini straws (0.25 mL), sealed with polyvinyl alcohol powder, kept for 3 h at 5°C for equilibration and then kept in automatic programmable freezer until temperature of straws reached -145°C followed by plunging into liquid nitrogen (-196°C). The evaluation of semen samples was carried out for various seminal attributes (sperm motility, live sperm count, acrosomal integrity, and hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) response) and antioxidant profile (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)) at pre freeze and post thaw stage.

RESULTS

Sperm motility, live sperm count, acrosomal integrity, HOS response were significantly (P<0.05) higher in group II as compared to group I. The average seminal SOD, GPx and TAC levels were significantly (P<0.05) higher in group II as compared to group I at pre freeze and post thaw stage.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that partial deoxygenation of the extender prior to its addition to semen enhances sperm quality in terms of sperm motility, live sperm count, acrosomal integrity, and hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) response and also improves seminal antioxidant profile (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC).

J/ψ Elliptic Flow in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

We report a precise measurement of the J/ψ elliptic flow in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV with the ALICE detector at the LHC. The J/ψ mesons are reconstructed at midrapidity (|y|<0.9) in the dielectron decay channel and at forward rapidity (2.5<y<4.0) in the dimuon channel, both down to zero transverse momentum. At forward rapidity, the elliptic flow v_{2} of the J/ψ is studied as a function of the transverse momentum and centrality. A positive v_{2} is observed in the transverse momentum range 2<p_{T}<8  GeV/c in the three centrality classes studied and confirms with higher statistics our earlier results at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV in semicentral collisions. At midrapidity, the J/ψ  v_{2} is investigated as a function of the transverse momentum in semicentral collisions and found to be in agreement with the measurements at forward rapidity. These results are compared to transport model calculations. The comparison supports the idea that at low p_{T} the elliptic flow of the J/ψ originates from the thermalization of charm quarks in the deconfined medium but suggests that additional mechanisms might be missing in the models.

Effects of ionic liquids on the nanoscopic dynamics and phase behaviour of a phosphatidylcholine membrane

Ionic liquids (ILs) are potential candidates for new antimicrobials due to their tunable antibacterial and antifungal properties that are required to keep pace with the growing challenge of bacterial resistance. To a great extent their antimicrobial actions are related to the interactions of ILs with cell membranes. Here, we report the effects of ILs on the nanoscopic dynamics and phase behaviour of a dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) membrane, a model cell membrane, as studied using neutron scattering techniques. Two prototypical imidazolium-based ILs 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIM[BF4]) and 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (DMIM[BF4]), which differ only in terms of the alkyl chain length of cations, have been used for the present study. Fixed Elastic Window Scan (FEWS) shows that the incorporation of ILs affects the phase behaviour of the phospholipid membrane significantly and the transition from a solid gel to a fluid phase shifts to lower temperature. This is found to be consistent with our differential scanning calorimetry measurements. DMIM[BF4], which has a longer alkyl chain cation, affects the phase behaviour more strongly in comparison to BMIM[BF4]. The pressure-area isotherms of the DMPC monolayer measured at the air-water interface show that in the presence of ILs, isotherms shift towards higher area-per lipid molecule. DMIM[BF4] is found to shift the isotherm to a greater extent compared to BMIM[BF4]. Quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) data show that both ILs act as a plasticizer, which enhances the fluidity of the membrane. DMIM[BF4] is found to be a stronger plasticizing agent in comparison to BMIM[BF4] that has a cation with a shorter alkyl chain. The incorporation of DMIM[BF4] enhances not only the long range lateral motion but also the localised internal motion of the lipids. On the other hand, BMIM[BF4] acts weakly in comparison to DMIM[BF4] and mainly alters the localised internal motion of the lipids. Any subtle change in the dynamical properties of the membrane can profoundly affect the stability of the cell. Hence, the dominant effect of the IL with the longer chain length on the dynamics of the phospholipid membrane might be correlated with its cytotoxic activity. QENS data analysis has provided a quantitative description of the effects of the two imidazolium-based ILs on the dynamical and phase behaviour of the model cell membrane, which is essential for a detailed understanding of their action mechanism.

Anomalous Evolution of the Near-Side Jet Peak Shape in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76 TeV

The measurement of two-particle angular correlations is a powerful tool to study jet quenching in a p_{T} region inaccessible by direct jet identification. In these measurements pseudorapidity (Δη) and azimuthal (Δφ) differences are used to extract the shape of the near-side peak formed by particles associated with a higher p_{T} trigger particle (1<p_{T,trig}<8  GeV/c). A combined fit of the near-side peak and long-range correlations is applied to the data allowing the extraction of the centrality evolution of the peak shape in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV. A significant broadening of the peak in the Δη direction at low p_{T} is found from peripheral to central collisions, which vanishes above 4  GeV/c, while in the Δφ direction the peak is almost independent of centrality. For the 10% most central collisions and 1<p_{T,assoc}<2  GeV/c, 1<p_{T,trig}<3  GeV/c a novel feature is observed: a depletion develops around the center of the peak. The results are compared to pp collisions at the same center of mass energy and ampt model simulations. The comparison to the investigated models suggests that the broadening and the development of the depletion is connected to the strength of radial and longitudinal flow.

Flow Dominance and Factorization of Transverse Momentum Correlations in Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

We present the first measurement of the two-particle transverse momentum differential correlation function, P_{2}≡⟨Δp_{T}Δp_{T}⟩/⟨p_{T}⟩^{2}, in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV. Results for P_{2} are reported as a function of the relative pseudorapidity (Δη) and azimuthal angle (Δφ) between two particles for different collision centralities. The Δϕ dependence is found to be largely independent of Δη for |Δη|≥0.9. In the 5% most central Pb-Pb collisions, the two-particle transverse momentum correlation function exhibits a clear double-hump structure around Δφ=π (i.e., on the away side), which is not observed in number correlations in the same centrality range, and thus provides an indication of the dominance of triangular flow in this collision centrality. Fourier decompositions of P_{2}, studied as a function of the collision centrality, show that correlations at |Δη|≥0.9 can be well reproduced by a flow ansatz based on the notion that measured transverse momentum correlations are strictly determined by the collective motion of the system.

X-ray Reflectivity Study of the Interaction of an Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquid with a Soft Supported Lipid Membrane

Ionic liquids (ILs) are important for their antimicrobial activity and are found to be toxic to some microorganisms. To shed light on the mechanism of their activities, the interaction of an imidazolium-based IL 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrfluoroborate ([BMIM][BF₄]) with E. coli bacteria and cell-membrane-mimicking lipid mono- and bilayers has been studied. The survival of the bacteria and corresponding growth inhibition are observed to be functions of the concentration of the IL. The IL alters the pressure-area isotherm of the monolayer formed at an air-water interface by the 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) lipid. The in-plane elasticity of the lipid layer is reduced as a consequence of the insertion of this IL. The X-ray reflectivity study from a polymer-supported lipid bilayer shows strong perturbation in the self-assembled structure of the bilayer due to the interaction. As a consequence, there is a considerable decrease in bilayer thickness and a corresponding increase in electron density. These results, however, depend on the chain configurations of the lipid molecules.

Identification and evaluation of reference genes for accurate gene expression normalization of fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) has become an important tool for gene-expression analysis for a selected number of genes in life science. Although large dynamic range, sensitivity and reproducibility of qRT-PCR is good, the reliability majorly depend on the selection of proper reference genes (RGs) employed for normalization. Although, RGs expression has been reported to vary considerably within same cell type with different experimental treatments. No systematic study has been conducted to identify and evaluate the appropriate RGs in spermatozoa of domestic animals. Therefore, this study was conducted to analyze suitable stable RGs in fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa. We have assessed 13 candidate RGs (BACT, RPS18s, RPS15A, ATP5F1, HMBS, ATP2B4, RPL13, EEF2, TBP, EIF2B2, MDH1, B2M and GLUT5) of different functions and pathways using five algorithms. Regardless of the approach, the ranking of the most and the least candidate RGs remained almost same. The comprehensive ranking by RefFinder showed GLUT5, ATP2B4 and B2M, MDH1 as the top two stable and least stable RGs, respectively. The expression levels of four heat shock proteins (HSP) were employed as a target gene to evaluate RGs efficiency for normalization. The results demonstrated an exponential difference in expression levels of the four HSP genes upon normalization of the data with the most stable and the least stable RGs. Our study, provides a convenient RGs for normalization of gene-expression of key metabolic pathways effected during freezing and thawing of spermatozoa of buffalo and other closely related bovines.

Correlated Event-by-Event Fluctuations of Flow Harmonics in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76 TeV

We report the measurements of correlations between event-by-event fluctuations of amplitudes of anisotropic flow harmonics in nucleus-nucleus collisions, obtained for the first time using a new analysis method based on multiparticle cumulants in mixed harmonics. This novel method is robust against systematic biases originating from nonflow effects and by construction any dependence on symmetry planes is eliminated. We demonstrate that correlations of flow harmonics exhibit a better sensitivity to medium properties than the individual flow harmonics. The new measurements are performed in Pb-Pb collisions at the center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair of sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV by the ALICE experiment at the Large Hadron Collider. The centrality dependence of correlation between event-by-event fluctuations of the elliptic v_{2} and quadrangular v_{4} flow harmonics, as well as of anticorrelation between v_{2} and triangular v_{3} flow harmonics are presented. The results cover two different regimes of the initial state configurations: geometry dominated (in midcentral collisions) and fluctuation dominated (in the most central collisions). Comparisons are made to predictions from Monte Carlo Glauber, viscous hydrodynamics, ampt, and hijing models. Together with the existing measurements of the individual flow harmonics the presented results provide further constraints on the initial conditions and the transport properties of the system produced in heavy-ion collisions.

Spatio-temporal variation in chemical characteristics of PM10 over Indo Gangetic Plain of India

The paper presents the spatio-temporal variation of chemical compositions (organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), and water-soluble inorganic ionic components (WSIC)) of particulate matter (PM10) over three locations (Delhi, Varanasi, and Kolkata) of Indo Gangetic Plain (IGP) of India for the year 2011. The observational sites are chosen to represent the characteristics of upper (Delhi), middle (Varanasi), and lower (Kolkata) IGP regions as converse to earlier single-station observation. Average mass concentration of PM10 was observed higher in the middle IGP (Varanasi 206.2 ± 77.4 μg m(-3)) as compared to upper IGP (Delhi 202.3 ± 74.3 μg m(-3)) and lower IGP (Kolkata 171.5 ± 38.5 μg m(-3)). Large variation in OC values from 23.57 μg m(-3) (Delhi) to 12.74 μg m(-3) (Kolkata) indicating role of formation of secondary aerosols, whereas EC have not shown much variation with maximum concentration over Delhi (10.07 μg m(-3)) and minimum over Varanasi (7.72 μg m(-3)). As expected, a strong seasonal variation was observed in the mass concentration of PM10 as well as in its chemical composition over the three locations. Principal component analysis (PCA) identifies the contribution of secondary aerosol, biomass burning, fossil fuel combustion, vehicular emission, and sea salt to PM10 mass concentration at the observational sites of IGP, India. Backward trajectory analysis indicated the influence of continental type aerosols being transported from the Bay of Bengal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and surrounding areas to IGP region.

Catch assessment of artisanal marine fishing gears in Cox’s Bazar and Teknaf of Bangladesh

Studies were conducted on catch assessment of some artisanal marine fishing gears operated in Cox’s Bazar and Teknaf areas from April 2014 to April 2015. Sixteen types of fishing gears were identified, of which gill net, beach seine net, estuarine set bag net, marine set bag net and trammel net occupy major fishing activities. Although estuarine set bag net (ESBN) is a legally restricted fishing gear recorded the highest catch per unit effort (CPUE) (110 kg/gear/day) in July followed by marine set bag net (MSBN) (105 kg/gear/day) in Cox’s Bazar and the highest CPUE was recorded 100 kg/gear/day by ESBN in June followed by MSBN (90 kg/gear/day) in Teknaf. Out of 52 species of fishes, the major fish species abundantly caught by these gears were Poa (Otolithoides argenteus), Churi (Trichiurus haumela), Loittya (Harpadon nehereus), Ranga choukha (Lutjanus johni), Lal poa (Johnius argentatus), Olua (Coilia dussumieri), Rup chanda (Stromateus chinensis), (Stromateus argenteus) and Ilish (Tenualosa ilisha). Besides these fish species, 10 commercially important shrimp species and 3 important crab species were also recorded during the study period. The peak season of availability of most fish species was June and July while lean season was December and January. This study indicated that Otolithoides argenteus) was the dominant fish species followed by Trichiurus haumela, Harpadon nehereus and Coilia dussumieri.Progressive Agriculture 27 (2): 228-234, 2016

Effect of egg yolk powder on freezability of Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) semen

Aim:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of commercial egg yolk powder as an alternative to fresh egg yolk on freezability of Murrah buffalo semen.

Materials and Methods:

Semen samples (12) from 3 Murrah buffaloes (4 from each bull) with mass motility (≥3+) and total motility (70% and above) were utilized in this study. Immediately after collection, each sample was divided into four groups. Groups I was diluted up to 60×10⁶ sperm/ml with tris extender containing 10% fresh egg yolk and Groups II, III, and IV were diluted up to 60×10⁶ sperm/ml with tris extender containing 2%, 4%, and 6% egg yolk powder, respectively. Semen samples were processed and cryopreserved followed by examination of frozen semen samples after 24 h. Semen samples from each group were evaluated for total motility, viability, acrosomal integrity, abnormality, and hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST) response after dilution, pre-freeze, and post-thaw stage.

Results:

Pre-freeze total motility was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Groups III and IV as compared to Groups I and II, and post-thaw total motility was significantly (p<0.01) higher in Group III as compared to other three groups. Viability was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Groups II, III, and IV than Group I at the pre-freeze stage. Significantly (p<0.01) higher viability and acrosomal integrity were recorded in Group III as compared to other three groups at the post-thaw stage. Abnormality was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Group IV than other three groups. HOST response was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Groups II and III than Groups I and IV at the pre-freeze and post-thaw stages.

Conclusion:

Addition of egg yolk powder at 4% level yielded significantly better results in terms of post-thaw semen quality as compared to the fresh egg yolk and other concentrations of egg yolk powder (2% and 6%).

Centrality Dependence of the Charged-Particle Multiplicity Density at Midrapidity in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

The pseudorapidity density of charged particles, dN_{ch}/dη, at midrapidity in Pb-Pb collisions has been measured at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair of sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. For the 5% most central collisions, we measure a value of 1943±54. The rise in dN_{ch}/dη as a function of sqrt[s_{NN}] is steeper than that observed in proton-proton collisions and follows the trend established by measurements at lower energy. The increase of dN_{ch}/dη as a function of the average number of participant nucleons, ⟨N_{part}⟩, calculated in a Glauber model, is compared with the previous measurement at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV. A constant factor of about 1.2 describes the increase in dN_{ch}/dη from sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76 to 5.02 TeV for all centrality classes, within the measured range of 0%-80% centrality. The results are also compared to models based on different mechanisms for particle production in nuclear collisions.

Measurement of an Excess in the Yield of J/ψ at Very Low p_{T} in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s]_{NN}=2.76 TeV

We report on the first measurement of an excess in the yield of J/ψ at very low transverse momentum (p_{T}<0.3  GeV/c) in peripheral hadronic Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV, performed by ALICE at the CERN LHC. Remarkably, the measured nuclear modification factor of J/ψ in the rapidity range 2.5<y<4 reaches about 7 (2) in the p_{T} range 0-0.3  GeV/c in the 70%-90% (50%-70%) centrality class. The J/ψ production cross section associated with the observed excess is obtained under the hypothesis that coherent photoproduction of J/ψ is the underlying physics mechanism. If confirmed, the observation of J/ψ coherent photoproduction in Pb-Pb collisions at impact parameters smaller than twice the nuclear radius opens new theoretical and experimental challenges and opportunities. In particular, coherent photoproduction accompanying hadronic collisions may provide insight into the dynamics of photoproduction and nuclear reactions, as well as become a novel probe of the quark-gluon plasma.

Anisotropic Flow of Charged Particles in Pb-Pb Collisions at √[s{NN}]=5.02 TeV

We report the first results of elliptic (v_{2}), triangular (v_{3}), and quadrangular (v_{4}) flow of charged particles in Pb-Pb collisions at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair of sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV with the ALICE detector at the CERN Large Hadron Collider. The measurements are performed in the central pseudorapidity region |η|<0.8 and for the transverse momentum range 0.2<p_{T}<5  GeV/c. The anisotropic flow is measured using two-particle correlations with a pseudorapidity gap greater than one unit and with the multiparticle cumulant method. Compared to results from Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV, the anisotropic flow coefficients v_{2}, v_{3}, and v_{4} are found to increase by (3.0±0.6)%, (4.3±1.4)%, and (10.2±3.8)%, respectively, in the centrality range 0%-50%. This increase can be attributed mostly to an increase of the average transverse momentum between the two energies. The measurements are found to be compatible with hydrodynamic model calculations. This comparison provides a unique opportunity to test the validity of the hydrodynamic picture and the power to further discriminate between various possibilities for the temperature dependence of shear viscosity to entropy density ratio of the produced matter in heavy-ion collisions at the highest energies.

Efficient transport of Am(III) from nitric acid medium using a new conformationally constrained (N,N,N',N'-tetra-2-ethylhexyl)7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,3-dicarboxamide across a supported liquid membrane

Am(III) is one of the most hazardous radionuclide present in nuclear fuel cycle. A new conformationally constrained diamide, (N,N,N',N'-tetra-2-ethylhexyl)7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,3-dicarboxamide (OBDA) was studied for Am(III) transport from HNO3 medium across a Supported Liquid Membrane. Transport rate was observed to be significantly fast with ∼95% transport of Am(III) within 1h using 0.1M OBDA in the presence of 15% isodecyl alcohol (IDA)/n-dodecane as carrier. The mechanism of transport was investigated by studying various parameters like feed HNO3/NaNO3 concentration, OBDA concentration in the membrane, membrane pore size, membrane thickness etc. From these studies, the mechanism of transport was found to be diffusion controlled with diffusion co-efficient value of 5.1×10(-6)cm(2)/s. The membrane was found to be highly selective for tri- and tetra-valent actinides, and trivalent lanthanides. OBDA based membrane was found to be stable for at least for ten consecutive cycles of operation.

Effect of incubation on freezability of cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin treated buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) spermatozoa

Aim:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of incubation on freezability of cholesterol loaded cyclodextrin (CLC) treated buffalo spermatozoa.

Materials and Methods:

Semen samples with mass motility of 3+ and greater, collected from Murrah buffalo bulls were utilized. Immediately after collection, four equal groups of semen sample were made. Group I was kept as control and diluted with Tris upto concentration of 60×10⁶ sperm/ml, where as Groups II, III, and IV were treated with CLC at 3 mg/120× 10⁶ spermatozoa, incubated at 37°C for action of CLC for 10, 15 and 20 min, respectively, and diluted with tris upto concentration of 60×10⁶ sperm/ml. All groups were subjected to equilibration and freezing. The evaluation of semen samples from all groups was carried out at fresh, pre-freeze and post-thaw stage for progressive motility, viability and hypo-osmotic swelling response (HOS response).

Results:

At the pre-freeze stage, significantly (p<0.05) higher percentage of progressive motility and viability was observed in treatment groups as compared to control with no significant difference among treatment groups. HOS response was significantly (p<0.05) higher in treatment groups as compared to control at pre-freeze stage. At post-thaw stage, significantly (p<0.05) higher percentage of progressive motility, viability and HOS response was recorded in Group II as compared to control and other treatment groups (III and IV). Group II retained significant post-thaw motility and viability at various post-thaw incubation periods.

Conclusion:

Incubation period of 10 min for CLC treated buffalo spermatozoa yielded significantly higher results in terms of freezability as compared to incubation for 15 and 20 min.

A randomized controlled pilot study to compare capecitabine-oxaliplatin with 5-FU-leucovorin as neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiation in locally advanced adenocarcinoma of rectum

CONTEXT

Established as an adjuvant chemotherapy, CapeOX has recently been shown to have radiosensitizer property in a phase I and II studies, with appreciable downstaging and tolerable toxicities.

AIMS

The study was designed to evaluate whether the capecitabine-oxaliplatin combination was superior to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-leucovorin as radiosensitizer for neoadjuvant chemoradiation in downstaging locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma and to compare the toxicities between the two arms.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

Single institutional, double blinded, prospective, noncrossover, randomized control pilot study.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In arm A (n = 21), patients received capecitabine (1,000 mg/m(2) daily) in twice dailydoseon days 1-14 and 25-38 and oxaliplatin (85 mg/m(2)) intravenous ( IV) over 2 h, on D1 and D29. In arm B (n = 21), patients received leucovorin (20 mg/m(2)) and 5-FU (350 mg/m(2)) from D1-5 and D29-33. Patient in both the arms received concurrent radiation (50.4 Gy in 28 #, in conventional fractionation of 1.8 Gy per fraction). Six to eight weeks after concurrent chemoradiation, patients underwent assessment and surgery with total mesorectal resection. Postoperatively, adjuvant chemotherapy with m-FOLFOX 6 of 4 months was given to all patients.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables between the groups.

RESULTS

Objective response rate (ORR) in arm A was 80.95% compared to arm B which had 66.66% (P = 0.3055). Pathological complete response (pCR) rate of arm A was comparable to arm B (23.8 vs 14.28%, P value = 0.6944). Surgery with R0 resection was possible in 80.95% cases of arm A compared to 66.66% cases of arm B (P = 0.4827). Grade III toxicities were quite comparable between two treatment arms.

CONCLUSIONS

In terms of ORR, pCR rate, R0 resection, and toxicity profile; both the arms were comparable.

Variation of Stable Carbon and Nitrogen Isotopic Composition of PM10 at Urban Sites of Indo Gangetic Plain (IGP) of India

This paper presents the variation of elemental concentrations of total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN) and isotopic ratios of δ13C and δ15N along with δ13OC and OC of PM10 mass over Delhi, Varanasi and Kolkata of the Indo Gangetic Plain (IGP), India. For Delhi, the average concentrations of TC and TN of PM10 were 53.0±33.6 and 14.9±10.8 µg m(-3), whereas δ13C and δ15N of PM10 were -25.5±0.5 and 9.6±2.8‰, respectively. For Varanasi, the average values of δ13C and δ15N of PM10 were -25.4±0.8 and 6.8±2.4‰, respectively. For Kolkata, TC and TN values for PM10 ranged from 9.1-98.2 to 1.4-25.9 µg m(-3), respectively with average values of 32.6±24.9 and 9.3±8.2 µg m(-3), respectively. The average concentrations of δ13C and δ15N were -26.0±0.4 and 7.4±2.7‰, respectively over Kolkata with ranges of -26.6 to -24.9‰ and 2.8±11.5‰, respectively. The isotopic analysis revealed that biomass burning, vehicular emission and secondary inorganic aerosols were likely sources of PM10 mass over IGP, India.

Control of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus, the vectors of dengue and chikungunya, by using pheromone C21 with an insect growth regulator: Results of multicentric trials from 2007-12 in India

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Aedes mosquito control has gained much importance nowadays in view of rise in number of reported cases of dengue and chikungunya in India and other countries. In the present study, C21 attracticide (containing a pheromone and an insect growth regulator—IGR, developed by Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior, India was tested for its feasibility for surveillance and control of Aedes mosquito in a multicentric mode from October 2007 to June 2012 in urban (Delhi, and Bengaluru district, Karnataka) and suburban (Alappuzha district, Kerala) settings of the country in three phases.

METHODS

Across the randomly selected households in each study area, two to four containers treated with attracticide (experimental) and untreated (control) were placed and monitored by trained surveillance workers on weekly/ fortnightly basis for determining the presence of eggs, larvae and pupae. Container positivity, percent larvae, egg and pupae collected were determined during different phases and analyzed statistically using SPSS 18.0.

RESULTS

Container positivity was found statistically significant at Bengaluru and Alappuzha, Kerala while in Delhi, it was found non-significant. Eggs collected from experimental containers were significantly higher in comparison to control at all the locations except Delhi. Also larvae collected from control containers were significantly higher at all the locations except Bengaluru. Pupae collected from control containers remained significantly higher at all the locations as no pupal formation was recorded from experimental containers.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION

The use of C21 attracticide hampered pupal formation, thus inhibiting adult population in the study areas. The study established that C21 attracticide was efficacious in the field conditions and has potential for use in surveillance and management of dengue and chikungunya mosquitoes.

Measurement of pion, kaon and proton production in proton-proton collisions at [Formula: see text] TeV

The measurement of primary [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] production at mid-rapidity ([Formula: see text] 0.5) in proton-proton collisions at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text] 7 TeV performed with a large ion collider experiment at the large hadron collider (LHC) is reported. Particle identification is performed using the specific ionisation energy-loss and time-of-flight information, the ring-imaging Cherenkov technique and the kink-topology identification of weak decays of charged kaons. Transverse momentum spectra are measured from 0.1 up to 3 GeV/[Formula: see text] for pions, from 0.2 up to 6 GeV/[Formula: see text] for kaons and from 0.3 up to 6 GeV/[Formula: see text] for protons. The measured spectra and particle ratios are compared with quantum chromodynamics-inspired models, tuned to reproduce also the earlier measurements performed at the LHC. Furthermore, the integrated particle yields and ratios as well as the average transverse momenta are compared with results at lower collision energies.