Genetic structure of a small closed population of the New Zealand white rabbit through pedigree analyses

The genetic structure of a small population of New Zealand White rabbits maintained at the Sheep Breeding and Research Station, Sandynallah, The Nilgiris, India, was evaluated through pedigree analyses. Data on pedigree information (n=2503) for 18 yr (1995-2012) were used for the study. Pedigree analysis and the estimates of population genetic parameters based on the gene origin probabilities were performed. The analysis revealed that the mean values of generation interval, coefficients of inbreeding and equivalent inbreeding were 1.49 yr, 13.23 and 17.59%, respectively. The proportion of population inbred was 100%. The estimated mean values of average relatedness and individual increase in inbreeding were 22.73 and 3.00%, respectively. The percentage increase in inbreeding over generations was 1.94, 3.06 and 3.98 estimated through maximum generations, equivalent generations and complete generations, respectively. The number of ancestors contributing the majority of 50% genes (f_a50) to the gene pool of reference population was only 4, which might have led to reduction in genetic variability and increased the amount of inbreeding. The extent of genetic bottleneck assessed by calculating the effective number of founders (f_e) and the effective number of ancestors (f_a), as expressed by the f_e/f_a ratio was 1.1, which is indicative of the absence of stringent bottlenecks. Up to 5th generation, 71.29% pedigree was complete, reflecting the well maintained pedigree records. The maximum known generations were 15, with an average of 7.9, and the average equivalent generations traced were 5.6, indicating a fairly good depth in pedigree. The realized effective population size was 14.93, which is very critical, and with the increasing trend of inbreeding the situation has been assessed as likely to become worse in future. The proportion of animals with the genetic conservation index (GCI) greater than 9 was 39.10%, which can be used as a scale to use such animals with higher GCI to maintain balanced contribution from the founders. From the study, it was evident that the herd was completely inbred, with a very high inbreeding coefficient, and the effective population size was critical. Recommendations were made to reduce the probability of deleterious effects of inbreeding and to improve genetic variability in the herd. The present study can help in carrying out similar studies to meet the demand for animal protein in developing countries.

Photocatalytic decomposition effect of erbium doped cerium oxide nanostructures driven by visible light irradiation: Investigation of cytotoxicity, antibacterial growth inhibition using catalyst

Cerium (IV) oxide (CeO₂) is the most accessible noble rare earth metal oxide for the excitation of the excitons by light-harvesting performance. The present work is focused on Erbium doped ceria nanoparticles that were beneficially obtained by hydrothermal method from cerium nitrate and Erbium nitrate as precursors for decomposition of Rhodamine-B (RhB) dye in the polluted waste water removed from the industries. Dye removal efficiency of the catalyst was found to be nearly ~94%. The structural phases, functional groups and the transitions are identified with the help of various techniques. XRD pattern determines the development of cubic phase with the particle size is 20 nm. Highly crystalline nature of as-synthesized nanomaterials with an average diameter of 35 nm was investigated by HRSEM. The crystalline size, shape and textural morphology, of the Erbium doped ceria nanostructures were analysed by HRTEM. Our results suggest, that the concentration of OH- ion determines the lattice constants and oxygen vacancy in the nanostructures which stimulate the probability of photocatalytic decomposition effect of organic pollutants, due to synergistic approach. In this context, both unhydrolyzed things and their swiftly drip from deceased or scratched cells with conceded membranes, even when the cells embrace some are outstanding attention. Although, the loss of viable cells also depends on epithelial cell dynamically conceal of numerous molar matrix.

Synthesis and Characterization of Calcium Phosphate Ceramic/(Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Polycaprolactone) Bilayer Nanocomposites-A Bone Tissue Regeneration Scaffold

β Tricalcium phosphate ceramic was used to reinforce nanofibers in composite mats produced via electrospinning of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), polycaprolactone (PCL) and (PVA: PCL) bilayers. The role of TCP ceramic on morphology of nanocomposites, crystalline structure, functional groups and thermal behaviour of nanocomposites were characterized by SEM, EDAX, XRD, FTIR and DSC analysis. Ultrathin cross-sections of the obtained nanocomposites were morphologically investigated with SEM and all fabricated composites consisted of fibers with average fiber diameter (AFD) around 100 nm except PCL-TCP fibers having AFD in the range of 608 nm. XRD profile presented the main peaks of β-TCP (JCPDS 090169 and JCPDS 70-2065). The characteristic absorption bands of TCP were also identified by FTIR in all the composites. The thermal stability was enhanced after adding TCP filler particles in all the polymer composites. The porosity of PCL-TCP was found around 63% and (PVA-PCL: TCP) composite was found to be 58%. The biocompatibility of the (PVA-PCL: TCP) composite scaffold has also been investigated by culturing MG-63 osteoblast cells on it; primary results showed that the cells adhered and proliferated well on the composite scaffold.

Synthesis, crystal growth and characterization of Zn0.5Mn0.5Te single crystal grown via the Bridgman technique

Single crystal of Zn_0.5Mn_0.5Te has been grown by the vertical Bridgman method.

Estimates of (co)variance components and genetic parameters for body weights and growth efficiency traits in the New Zealand white rabbit

The genetic parameters of growth traits in the New Zealand White rabbits kept at Sheep Breeding and Research Station, Sandynallah, The Nilgiris, India were estimated by partitioning the variance and covariance components. The (co)variance components of body weights at weaning (W42), post-weaning (W70) and marketing (W135) age and growth efficiency traits viz., average daily gain (ADG), relative growth rate (RGR) and Kleiber ratio (KR) estimated on a daily basis at different age intervals (42 to 70 d; 70 to 135 d and 42 to 135 d) from weaning to marketing were estimated by restricted maximum likelihood, fitting 6 animal models with various combinations of direct and maternal effects. Data were collected over a period of 15 yr (1998 to 2012). A log-likelihood ratio test was used to select the most appropriate univariate model for each trait, which was subsequently used in bivariate analysis. Heritability estimates for W42, W70 and W135 were 0.42±0.07, 0.40±0.08 and 0.27±0.07, respectively. Heritability estimates of growth efficiency traits were moderate to high (0.18 to 0.42). Of the total phenotypic variation, maternal genetic effect contributed 14 to 32% for early body weight traits (W42 and W70) and ADG1. The contribution of maternal permanent environmental effect varied from 6 to 18% for W42 and for all the growth efficiency traits except for KR2. Maternal permanent environmental effect on most of the growth efficiency traits was a carryover effect of maternal care during weaning. Direct maternal genetic correlations, for the traits in which maternal genetic effect was significant, were moderate to high in magnitude and negative in direction. Maternal effect declined as the age of the animal increased. The estimates of total heritability and maternal across year repeatability for growth traits were moderate and an optimum rate of genetic progress seems possible in the herd by mass selection. The genetic and phenotypic correlations among body weights and between growth efficiency traits were also estimated. Moderate to high heritability and higher genetic correlation in body weight traits promise good scope for genetic improvement provided measures are taken to keep the inbreeding at the lowest level.

Structural and biophysical characterization of Rv3716c, a hypothetical protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Latent tuberculosis (TB) is the main hurdle in reaching the goal of "Stop TB 2050". Tuberculin skin and Interferon-gamma release assay tests used currently for the diagnosis of TB infection cannot distinguish between active disease and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and hence new and sensitive protein markers need to be identified for the diagnosis. A protein Rv3716c from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MtbRv3716c) has been identified as a potential surrogate marker for the diagnosis of LTBI. Here, we present characterization of MtbRv3716c (∼13 kDa) using both biophysical and X-Ray crystallographic methods. EMSA study showed that MtbRv3716c binds to double stranded DNA. X-ray diffraction data collected on a crystal of MtbRv3716c at 1.9 Å resolution was used for structure determination using the molecular replacement method. Significant electron density was not observed for the N-terminal 21 and C-terminal 41 residues in the final electron density map. The C- terminal disordered region is proline rich and displays characteristics of intrinsically disordered proteins. Although the crystal asymmetric unit contained a protomer, a tight dimer could be generated by the application of the crystal two-fold symmetry parallel to the b axis. Packing of dimers in the crystal is mediated by a cadmium ion (Cd²⁺) occurring at the interface of two dimers. Molecular packing analysis reveals large cavities that are probably occupied by the disordered segments of the N- and C-termini. Structural comparison with other homologous hypothetical DNA binding proteins (PDB codes: 1PUG, 1YBX) highlights structural features that might be significant for DNA binding.

mGluR2/3 mechanisms in primate dorsolateral prefrontal cortex: evidence for both presynaptic and postsynaptic actions

Cognitive deficits in psychiatric and age-related disorders generally involve dysfunction of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), but there are few treatments for these debilitating symptoms. Group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR2/3), which couple to Gi/Go, have been a focus of therapeutics based on rodent research, where mGluR2/3 have been shown to reduce axonal glutamate release and increase glial glutamate uptake. However, this strategy has had mixed results in patients, and understanding mGluR2/3 mechanisms in primates will help guide therapeutic interventions. The current study examined mGluR2/3 localization and actions in the primate dlPFC layer III circuits underlying working memory, where the persistent firing of 'Delay cells' is mediated by N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors and weakened by cAMP-PKA-potassium channel signaling in dendritic spines. Immunoelectron microscopy identified postsynaptic mGluR2/3 in the spines, in addition to the traditional presynaptic and astrocytic locations. In vivo iontophoretic application of the mGluR2/3 agonists (2R, 4R)-APDC or LY379268 onto dlPFC Delay cells produced an inverted-U effect on working memory representation, with enhanced neuronal firing following low doses of mGluR2/3 agonists. The enhancing effects were reversed by an mGluR2/3 antagonist or by activating cAMP signaling, consistent with mGluR2/3 inhibiting postsynaptic cAMP signaling in spines. Systemic administration of these agonists to monkeys performing a working memory task also produced an inverted-U dose-response, where low doses improved performance but higher doses, similar to clinical trials, had mixed effects. Our data suggest that low doses of mGluR2/3 stimulation may have therapeutic effects through unexpected postsynaptic actions in dlPFC, strengthening synaptic connections and improving cognitive function.

Characteristics of children undergoing dental extractions under general anaesthesia in Wolverhampton: 2007-2012

INTRODUCTION

Studying characteristics of children requiring extractions under dental general anaesthesia (DGA) can help identify trends, which can be used to facilitate future planning of healthcare services.

OBJECTIVE

To report on the profile of children who underwent extractions under DGA between 2007 and 2012 at the New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton, England.Methods Retrospective analyses of hospital records.

RESULTS

Of the 2692 patients seen between 2007 and 2012, 49.6% were boys and 50.4% were girls. The mean age was 7.1 and 7 to 12 years was the largest age group (43%). The majority of the sample was White British (67%). Of the 8,286 teeth extracted, 85% were primary teeth and 15% permanent. More teeth were extracted in boys than girls (P = 0.002) and 'Other' ethnicities had a higher mean number of extractions compared to White British (P <0.001) and South Asians (P = 0.046). The mean age of the patients has decreased over the years (P = 0.001) and the mean number of primary teeth extracted has increased (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A clear dental public health issue has been reinforced through the relatively high level of DGA activity reported. Though rigorous caries prevention remains the ultimate goal, a better assessment and discharge process may help reduce the need for first time DGAs as well as repeats.

Comparative Studies on Effect of Carbon and Nitrogen Sources on L -Asparaginase Production

Marine actinomycetes sediment samples were collected from Gulf of Mannar costal region, Kayalpatinam, located at Tuticorin district, Tamilnadu, India. Marine actinomycetes were isolated and evaluated for activity of L-asparaginase production. A total of 10 marine actinomycetes strains were isolated. Among 10 isolates, six were belongs to Streptomyces sp, three were belongs to Micromonospora sp and one was to Micropolyspora sp. Based on phenotypic characteristics, actinomycetes strains were screened for L-asparaginase production. Streptomyces sp KPMS5 and Micromonospora sp KPMS10 were showed large pink coloration on L-asparaginase production medium. The strains were further studied for maximum production and characterizations of culture condition of L-asparaginase enzyme were evaluated. Effect of substrate on L-asparaginase production was evaluated by enzyme assy. Maximum enzyme assay (1.4 mM) was observed on glucose followed by starch (1.12Mm) by Micromonospora sp KPMS10. In Streptomyces sp KPMS5 showed maximum of 1.25mM of enzyme assay on glucose substrate followed by lactose 1.17mM. Yeast extract was effectively used as substrate for maximum production of L-asparaginase by submerged fermentation. Further studies on purification and characterization are required to support the application of enzyme. The finding concludes isolates belongs to non-Streptomyces sp like Micromonospora sp is a potential novel source for L-asparaginase production.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 4(4): 452-457

Polymorphism of growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene in Nilagiri sheep

The allelic variation in the regulatory sequence of growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene influences the growth traits of sheep. A study was carried out to find out the polymorphisms associated with exon 10 of GHR gene and its association with growth traits of Nilagiri sheep. The blood samples were collected from Nilagiri sheep (n = 103) reared at Sheep Breeding Research Station, Sandynallah, Tamil Nadu, India. DNA was isolated using the phenol-chloroform extraction procedure and eight samples having amplified product of part of exon 10 (895 bp) sequenced. The results indicated transitions of nucleotide G>A at loci G177624A and G177878A. The genotyping frequencies estimated using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-PCR for GG, GA and AA were 0.262, 0.544 and 0.194, and 0.349, 0.505 and 0.146, respectively. The estimated allele frequencies of G and A nucleotides were 0.5340 and 0.4660, and 0.6015 and 0.3985, respectively, at loci G177624A and G177878A. The effects of both the mutations on growth-related traits viz., birth, weaning (3 months) 6, 9 and 12 months weight in Nilagiri sheep were found to be non-significant. This can be a novel approach to assess growth of sheep using the mutation in GHR gene. Thus, this approach can be useful for further investigation as a molecular marker associated with genetic improvement.