Impact of polychlorinated biphenyl Aroclor 1254 on testicular antioxidant system in adult rats

To clarify the reproductive toxicity of polychlorinated biphenyl compounds through determination of testicular lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in rats exposed to Aroclor 1254. Adult male rats were administered Aroclor 1254 at a dose of 2 mg/kg per day ip for 30 days. The rats were sacrificed 24 hours after last dosing and the serum and other tissues collected and processed for relevant determinations. The body weight and the weights of the testis, epididymis, ventral prostate and seminal vesicle and the serum testosterone and estradiol were significantly decreased in Aroclor 1254 treated rats. The testicular lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical were significantly elevated whereas, testicular antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GR) were significantly decreased. The non-enzymatic antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin E, were also decreased. These results suggest that Aroclor 1254 induces an increase in the lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical and diminish in the antioxidant defense system in rats, indicating that the free radical-dependent mechanism may play an important role in the testicular toxicity of polychlorinated biphenyls.

Estimation of the effects of normal tissue sparing using equivalent uniform dose-based optimization

In this study, we intend to estimate the effects of normal tissue sparing between intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment plans generated with and without a dose volume (DV)-based physical cost function using equivalent uniform dose (EUD). Twenty prostate cancer patients were retrospectively selected for this study. For each patient, two IMRT plans were generated (i) EUD-based optimization with a DV-based physical cost function to control inhomogeneity (EUD_{With DV}) and (ii) EUD-based optimization without a DV-based physical cost function to allow inhomogeneity (EUD_{Without DV}). The generated plans were prescribed a dose of 72 Gy in 36 fractions to planning target volume (PTV). Mean dose, D_30%, and D_5% were evaluated for all organ at risk (OAR). Normal tissue complication probability was also calculated for all OARs using BioSuite software. The average volume of PTV for all patients was 103.02 ± 27 cm³. The PTV mean dose for EUD_{With DV} plans was 73.67 ± 1.7 Gy, whereas for EUD_{Without DV} plans was 80.42 ± 2.7 Gy. It was found that PTV volume receiving dose more than 115% of prescription dose was negligible in EUD_{With DV} plans, whereas it was 28% in EUD_{Without DV} plans. In almost all dosimetric parameters evaluated, dose to OARs in EUD_{With DV} plans was higher than in EUD_{Without DV} plans. Allowing inhomogeneous dose (EUD_{Without DV}) inside the target would achieve better normal tissue sparing compared to homogenous dose distribution (EUD_{With DV}). Hence, this inhomogeneous dose could be intentionally dumped on the high-risk volume to achieve high local control. Therefore, it was concluded that EUD optimized plans offer added advantage of less OAR dose as well as selectively boosting dose to gross tumor volume.

Evidence of In Vivo Existence of Borrelia Biofilm in Borrelial Lymphocytomas

Lyme borreliosis, caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, has grown into a major public health problem. We recently identified a novel morphological form of B. burgdorferi, called biofilm, a structure that is well known to be highly resistant to antibiotics. However, there is no evidence of the existence of Borrelia biofilm in vivo; therefore, the main goal of this study was to determine the presence of Borrelia biofilm in infected human skin tissues. Archived skin biopsy tissues from borrelial lymphocytomas (BL) were reexamined for the presence of B. burgdorferi sensu lato using Borrelia-specific immunohistochemical staining (IHC), fluorescent in situ hybridization, combined fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)–IHC, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and fluorescent and atomic force microscopy methods. Our morphological and histological analyses showed that significant amounts of Borrelia-positive spirochetes and aggregates exist in the BL tissues. Analyzing structures positive for Borrelia showed that aggregates, but not spirochetes, expressed biofilm markers such as protective layers of different mucopolysaccharides, especially alginate. Atomic force microscopy revealed additional hallmark biofilm features of the Borrelia/alginate-positive aggregates such as inside channels and surface protrusions. In summary, this is the first study that demonstrates the presence of Borrelia biofilm in human infected skin tissues.

Correction: Encapsulation of therapeutic lavender oil in an electrolyte assisted polyacrylonitrile nanofibres for antibacterial applications

Correction for ‘Encapsulation of therapeutic lavender oil in an electrolyte assisted polyacrylonitrile nanofibres for antibacterial applications’ by K. Balasubramanian et al., RSC Adv., 2014, 4, 54892–54901.

Correction: Molecularly imprinted and nanoengineered camphor soot functionalized PAN-nanofibers for effluent treatment

Correction for ‘Molecularly imprinted and nanoengineered camphor soot functionalized PAN-nanofibers for effluent treatment’ by Surabhi Sharma and K. Balasubramanian, RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 31732–31741.

Correction: Polyacrylonitrile/Syzygium aromaticum hierarchical hydrophilic nanocomposite as a carrier for antibacterial drug delivery systems

Correction for ‘Polyacrylonitrile/Syzygium aromaticum hierarchical hydrophilic nanocomposite as a carrier for antibacterial drug delivery systems’ by Ramdayal Yadav et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 3291–3298.

Reconstruction of pink esthetics: The periodontal way

Cosmetic procedures involving gingival reconstruction have become an integral part of current periodontal practice. The ability to cover unsightly exposed, sensitive roots and recontour soft tissue recessions have added an esthetic angle to the traditional concept of biological and functional periodontal health. The recession of the gingiva, either localized or generalized, may be associated with one or more surfaces, resulting in attachment loss and root exposure, which can lead to clinical problems such as diminished cosmetic appeal and aesthetic concern. Marginal gingival recession, therefore, can cause major functional and aesthetic problems and should not be viewed as merely a soft tissue defect, but rather as the destruction of both the soft and hard tissue. Treatment proposals for this type of defect have evolved based on the knowledge for healing the gingiva and the attachment system. This case report describes a clinical case of severe Miller Class II gingival recession treated by two stages of surgery that combined a free gingival graft and connective tissue grafting. First, a free gingival graft (FGG) was performed to obtain an adequate keratinized tissue level. Three months later, a connective tissue graft (CTG)was performed to obtain root coverage. The results indicated that the FGG allows for a gain in the keratinized tissue level and the CTG allows for root coverage with decreased recession level after 6 months. Therefore, for this type of specific gingival recession, the combined use of FGG and CTG still serves as a Gold Standard in predictable root coverage.

Polyacrylonitrile/Syzygium aromaticum hierarchical hydrophilic nanocomposite as a carrier for antibacterial drug delivery systems

A versatile, maneuverable electrospinning process was exploited to fabricate intertwined-heterostructure polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers by incorporating the essential oilSyzygium aromaticumfor antibacterial drug delivery systems.

Nano-engineered hybrid hydroxyapatite-grafted biocomposites for Euspria pulchella mimicking through chaotic flow regimes

The present study speculates a successful attempt towards mimicking the shell of Euspria pulchella, a marine gastropod mollusc, by PVA-surface treated HA composites using chaotic reconstruction.

Nanotexturing of PC/n-HA nanocomposites by innovative and advanced spray system

Nanoscale texturing of n-HA filler on PC matrix is ameliorated by advanced engineered spray techniques viz. spary gun and centrifuged spray dryer, modifying properties of biomedical grade screw/plate coating application.

Encapsulation of gold nanoparticles with PHB based on coffee ring effect

The hydrodynamic process of ring formation has been utilized to encapsulate gold nanoparticles in the matrix of PHB using an ink jet printing technique.

Metallization of electrospun PAN nanofibers via electroless gold plating

An electroless gold plating process was investigated for the metallization of an electropun PAN fibre by utilizing a non-cyanide based gold complex i.e. gold thiosulfate.

Molecularly imprinted and nanoengineered camphor soot functionalized PAN-nanofibers for effluent treatment

A novel platform for the synthesis of ion-imprinted electrospun PAN–camphor soot nanofibers for the speciation and treatment of radioactive metal ions is proposed.

Nano-heat-sink thin film composite of PC/three-dimensional networked nano-fumed silica with exquisite hydrophobicity

Efficient utilization of fumed silica with thermoset resins had been investigated for high temperature applications, which led to extensive exploration of newer materials.

A nanocellular PVDF–graphite water-repellent composite coating

We have developed a cost-effective method for the preparation of a porous superhydrophobic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/graphite composite with an induced nanocellular patterned surface.

PCL/PVA nanoencapsulated reinforcing fillers of steam exploded/autoclaved cellulose nanofibrils for tissue engineering applications

The process of extraction of cellulose nanofibrils by steam explosion followed by electrospinning with biodegradable polymers to yield PCL/PVA nanoencapsulated cellulosic reinforcing fillers for tissue engineering applications.

Oxidatively modified phosphatidylserines on the surface of apoptotic cells are essential phagocytic 'eat-me' signals: cleavage and inhibition of phagocytosis by Lp-PLA2

Diversified anionic phospholipids, phosphatidylserines (PS), externalized to the surface of apoptotic cells are universal phagocytic signals. However, the role of major PS metabolites, such as peroxidized species of PS (PSox) and lyso-PS, in the clearance of apoptotic cells has not been rigorously evaluated. Here, we demonstrate that H2O2 was equally effective in inducing apoptosis and externalization of PS in naive HL60 cells and in cells enriched with oxidizable polyunsaturated species of PS (supplemented with linoleic acid (LA)). Despite this, the uptake of LA-supplemented cells by RAW264.7 and THP-1 macrophages was more than an order of magnitude more effective than that of naive cells. A similar stimulation of phagocytosis was observed with LA-enriched HL60 cells and Jurkat cells triggered to apoptosis with staurosporine. This was due to the presence of PSox on the surface of apoptotic LA-supplemented cells (but not of naive cells). This enhanced phagocytosis was dependent on activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, as no stimulation of phagocytosis occurred in LA-enriched cells challenged with Fas antibody. Incubation of apoptotic cells with lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), a secreted enzyme with high specificity towards PSox, hydrolyzed peroxidized PS species in LA-supplemented cells resulting in the suppression of phagocytosis to the levels observed for naive cells. This suppression of phagocytosis by Lp-PLA2 was blocked by a selective inhibitor of Lp-PLA2, SB-435495. Screening of possible receptor candidates revealed the ability of several PS receptors and bridging proteins to recognize both PS and PSox, albeit with diverse selectivity. We conclude that PSox is an effective phagocytic 'eat-me' signal that participates in the engulfment of cells undergoing intrinsic apoptosis.

An effective technique for removal and recovery of uranium(vi) from aqueous solution using cellulose–camphor soot nanofibers

Speciation and recovery of U(vi) ions from nuclear wastewater is a heavy challenge for various nuclear centers and research organizations.

Encapsulation of therapeutic lavender oil in an electrolyte assisted polyacrylonitrile nanofibres for antibacterial applications

Electrospinning, a feasible nanotechnology, has been exploited to engineer polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibrous mats enclosing a representative hydrophobic drug like essential oil of lavender.

Thermal modelling of hybrid composites of nano cenosphere and polycarbonate for a thermal protection system

The article explores high temperature applications of novel polycarbonate cenosphere composites for potential use in thermal protection systems.

Nanostructured microporous polymer composite imprinted with superhydrophobic camphor soot, for emphatic oil–water separation

The pollution of water devastatingly affects the marine environment by physical smothering and intoxication.

Electroless nickel coated nano-clay for electrolytic removal of Hg(ii) ions

The footprint existence and accumulation of cataclysmic Hg(ii) ions in aqueous media poses a severe threat to biological ecosystems and necessitates immediate measures for its regulation.

Graphene nanoribbon-PVA composite as EMI shielding material in the X band

A very thin graphene nanoribbon/polyvinyl alcohol (GNR/PVA) composite film has been developed which is light weight and requires a very low concentration of filler to achieve electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding as high as 60 dB in the X band. Atomic force microscope studies show very well conjugated filler concentration in the PVA matrix for varying concentrations of GNR supported by Raman spectroscopy data. The films show 14 orders of increase in conductivity with a GNR concentration of 0.75% [corrected] in PVA. This is possible because of the interconnected GNR network providing a very low percolation threshold as observed from the electrical measurements. Local density of states study of GNR using scanning tunnelling spectroscopy shows the presence of localized states near the Fermi energy. There are multiple advantages of GNR as an EMI shielding material in a polymer matrix. It has good dispersion in water, the conductive network in the composite shows very high electrical conductivity for a very low concentration of GNR and the presence of localized density of states near Fermi energy provides the spin states required for the absorbance of radiation energy in the X band.

Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate exposure impairs insulin receptor and glucose transporter 4 gene expression in L6 myotubes

Di(2-ethyl hexyl)-phthalate (DEHP) is an endocrine disrupter and is the most abundantly used phthalate derivative, which is suspected to be an inevitable environmental exposure contributing to the increasing incidence of type-2 diabetes in humans. Therefore, the present study was designed to address the dose-dependent effects of DEHP on insulin signaling molecules in L6 myotubes. L6 myotubes were exposed to different concentrations (25, 50, and 100 μM) of DEHP for 24 h. At the end of exposure, cells were utilized for assessing various parameters. Insulin receptor and glucose transporter4 (GLUT4) gene expression, insulin receptor protein concentration, glucose uptake and oxidation, and enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants were significantly reduced, but glutamine fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase, nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, and reactive oxygen species levels were elevated in a dose-dependent manner in L6 myotubes exposed to DEHP. The present study in turn shows the direct adverse effect of DEHP on the expression of insulin receptor and GLUT4 gene, glucose uptake, and oxidation in L6 myotubes suggesting that DEHP exposure may have a negative influence on insulin signaling.

Effect of bisphenol-A on insulin signal transduction and glucose oxidation in skeletal muscle of adult male albino rat

The estrogenic monomer bisphenol-A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical used in the production of epoxy resins, plastic food and beverage containers, leading to ubiquitous human exposure. Environmentally relevant doses of BPA have profound effects on mice endocrine pancreas. It increases pancreatic insulin content and favors postprandial hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance in male mice. Skeletal muscle plays a crucial role in maintaining systemic glucose metabolism. In the present study, we investigated the possible effects of BPA on insulin-signaling molecules and glucose oxidation in skeletal muscle of male rat. Adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups. Group I: control (vehicle treated) and groups II and III were administered with BPA orally (20 and 200 mg/kg bw/day, respectively). Although there was no change in the levels of insulin receptor (IR), Akt (protein kinase B) and glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) messenger RNA, BPA significantly decreased the IR, Akt and GLUT4 protein levels (both plasma membrane and cytosolic fraction) of the gastrocnemius muscle. There was an increase in serum insulin and decrease in serum testosterone levels but fasting blood glucose level remained unaltered. In conclusion, BPA has adverse effects on phosphorylation of Akt, GLUT4 translocation and (14)C-glucose oxidation.

Determinants of Infant Mortality in a Developing Region in Rural Andhra Pradesh

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Despite several interventions implemented for the improvement of infant survival, the pace of decline in infant mortality in the State of Andhra Pradesh during the last two decades has been rather slow. This paper examines determinants of infant mortality in a rural population of about 45000 in Medchal region of Andhra Pradesh, India.

METHODS

Data obtained through continuous (longitudinal) enumeration of household population and also from the cross-sectional survey of households carried out during 2008-09 in the study area were analyzed. A univariate analysis was carried out and followed by an application of binary logistic regression model to identify significant factors associated with infant mortality.

RESULTS

Despite a substantial increase in institutional deliveries in the study area, infant mortality rate remained relatively constant at 43±1. Socioeconomic variables such as education and household economic status and environmental variables such as access to safe drinking water and sanitation facility and use of clean cooking fuel emerged as significant predictors of infant survival.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS

Promoting institutional deliveries by providing cash assistance to women by itself cannot be expected to bring down infant mortality to a low level in the absence of an improvement in socioeconomic and environmental conditions of the households.

Chemically modified polymer beads for sorption of gold from waste gold solution

A simple method to convert gold from waste gold solutions used in chemical laboratories and chemical industries into metallic gold nano particles using styrene maleic acid copolymer beads has been approached. The styrene maleic acid copolymer beads with an average bead diameter 400-600 microns, exhibiting exceptionally high rough surface was used as a polymer matrix for the reducing gold from aqueous solution to metallic nano gold. Uptake of gold ions from aqueous waste gold solution was attempted in a batch process. Conversion of gold to metallic nano gold was achieved without the use of any external reducing agents. The metallic nano gold particles could be embedded into polymer matrix within 2h. The beads exhibited high temperature resistance and could sustain upto 400°C.

Reduced adhesion of macrophages on anodized titanium with select nanotube surface features

One of the important prerequisites for a successful orthopedic implant apart from being osteoconductive is the elicitation of a favorable immune response that does not lead to the rejection of the implant by the host tissue. Anodization is one of the simplest surface modification processes used to create nanotextured and nanotubular features on metal oxides which has been shown to improve bone formation. Anodization of titanium (Ti) leads to the formation of TiO₂ nanotubes on the surface, and the presence of these nanotubes mimics the natural nanoscale features of bone, which in turn contributes to improved bone cell attachment, migration, and proliferation. However, inflammatory cell responses on anodized Ti remains to be tested. It is hypothesized that surface roughness and surface feature size on anodized Ti can be carefully manipulated to control immune cell (specifically, macrophages) responses. Here, when Ti samples were anodized at 10 V in the presence of 1% hydrofluoric acid (HF) for 1 minute, nanotextured (nonnanotube) surfaces were created. When anodization of Ti samples was carried out with 1% HF for 10 minutes at 15 V, nanotubes with 40–50 nm diameters were formed, whereas at 20 V with 1% HF for 10 minutes, nanotubes with 60–70 nm diameters were formed. In this study, a reduced density of macrophages was observed after 24 hours of culture on nanotextured and nanotubular Ti samples which were anodized at 10, 15, and 20 V, compared with conventional unmodified Ti samples. This in vitro study thus demonstrated a reduced density of macrophages on anodized Ti, thereby providing further evidence of the greater efficacy of anodized Ti for orthopedic applications.