IL-17-driven intestinal fibrosis is inhibited by Itch-mediated ubiquitination of HIC-5

Intestinal fibrosis is a major complication in inflammatory bowel diseases, but the regulatory mechanism that inhibits fibrosis remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that Itch^-/-myofibroblasts express increased amounts of profibrotic collagen type I and α-SMA in response to IL-17. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Itch directly binds to HIC-5 and targets it for K63-linked ubiquitination to inhibit IL-17-driven intestinal fibrosis. Reconstitution of Itch^-/- myofibroblasts with wild-type Itch but not the Itch-C830A mutant normalized the expression of profibrotic genes. Similarly, shRNA-mediated inhibition of HIC-5 normalized the expression of profibrotic gene expression. Thus, we have uncovered a novel mechanism by which Itch negatively regulates intestinal fibrosis.

First report on characterization and pathogenicity study of emerging Lactococcus garvieae infection in farmed rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), from India

"Warm water lactococcosis" in farm-reared rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum) in the northern Himalayan region of India, caused by bacterium Lactococcus garvieae is described in this study. Nine bacterial isolates were recovered from the organs of haemorrhagic septicaemia rainbow trout and were subjected to biochemical and molecular identification. Cell surface characteristics and virulence of the bacterial isolates are also described. All the nine bacterial isolates had homogenous biochemical characteristics and were Gram-positive, short chains forming (two to eight cells long), α-haemolytic, non-motile ovoid cocci. Partial 16S rDNA nucleotide sequence (~1,400 bp) of current isolates shared 99% identities with the 16S rDNA nucleotide sequence of L. garvieae R421, L. garvieae FMA395 and L. garvieae CAU:1730. The identity of the bacterial isolates was further confirmed by PCR amplification of L. garvieae-specific ~1,100 bp fragment. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of one representative isolate, L. garvieae RTCLI04, indicates that the isolated strain lacks thick outer capsule and is of KG+ (non-capsulates) phenotype. An intraperitoneal and intramuscular injection (2.6 × 10⁵ CFU ml^-1 ) and also immersion in bacterial suspension @ of 2.6 × 10⁵ CFU ml^-1 to healthy rainbow trout juveniles (body weight: 27.5 ± 3.7 g) with L. garvieae RTCLI04 caused 80%, 60% and 10% cumulative mortality in challenged fish, respectively, within 15 days post-infection. The haemorrhagic septicaemic disease was reproduced experimentally. Histopathological examination of organs of experimentally infected fish revealed extensive degenerative and inflammatory changes in eye, kidney, gill and liver. PCR amplification of several putative virulence genes such as haemolysins, adhesins, LPxTG-containing surface proteins and adhesins cluster confirms the virulence of our Indian L. garvieae isolates. To the best of our knowledge, we are reporting for the first time that L. garvieae is associated with fatal haemorrhagic septicaemia in farmed rainbow trout in India.

Comparison of in vitro and in vivo fertilizing potential of buffalo bull semen frozen in egg yolk-, soya bean lecithin- and liposome-based extenders

The objective of this study was to compare different extenders for post-thaw in vitro sperm function and in vivo fertility of buffalo semen. Accordingly, sperm of 30 ejaculates extended in egg yolk (TRIS with 20% egg yolk; EY), two soya lecithin-based (SL-1; AndroMed® and SL-2; Bioxcell® ) and a liposome-based extender (LS; OptiXcell® ) were tested. The post-thaw semen was evaluated for computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA), sperm viability, membrane and acrosome integrity, DNA integrity and acrosome reaction and first service pregnancy rate (FSPR) in a fixed-time artificial insemination programme. Total motility and VCL were the only CASA-based parameters that exhibited significantly higher (p < .05) percentage in LS among these extenders. Post-thaw percentage of acrosome integrity (55.9 ± 1.4, 58.1 ± 2.0, 55.8 ± 2.0, 56.6 ± 2.3) and DNA integrity (68.8 ± 2.0, 69.2 ± 2.3, 71.3 ± 2.1, 69.1 ± 2.1) did not differ (p > .05) in EY, SL-1, SL-2 and LS extender, respectively. However, a variable response in terms of efficacy of different extenders for sperm viability and plasma membrane integrity was observed. Assessment of inducibility of acrosome reaction showed significant differences between extenders (51.9 ± 2.1, 44.3 ± 2.4, 46.1 ± 2.3 and 58.1 ± 3.1%, respectively, for EY, SL-1, SL-2 and LS). Furthermore, field trials revealed significantly higher (p < .05) FSPR of LS-extended semen as compared to that for EY, SL-1 and SL-2 extender (46.3%, 41.2%, 31.2% and 29.7%, respectively). It is concluded that the liposome-based extender is more effective than egg yolk- and soya lecithin-based extenders and may be used for cryopreservation of buffalo semen in the future.

Prevalence and correlates of sexual health disorders among adult men in a rural area of North India: An observational study

Background and Objectives:

Sexual health disorders are an important but less researched public health issue in India. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of sexual health disorders and their associated factors among adult men in a rural community of Haryana, India.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adult men aged 18–60 years using a multistage stratified random sampling. Information pertaining to sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle and sexual practices, and self-reported sexual problems were collected. Sexual health disorders were defined based on International Statistical Classification of Diseases-10 classification of mental and behavioral disorders. Step-wise logistic regression was carried out to identify factors independently associated with sexual disorders.

Results:

At least one sexual health disorder was reported by 81% of the men. The most commonly reported disorder was self-perceived defect in semen (64.4%), followed by loss of libido (21%), masturbation guilt (20.8%), erectile dysfunction (5%), and premature ejaculation (4.6%). Factors significantly associated with sexual health disorders among all men were being never married (odds ratio = 2.04; 95% confidence interval: 1.51, 2.77), smoking (1.57; 1.16, 2.14), cannabis use (4.20; 1.68, 10.48), diabetes (2.40; 1.22, 4.73), and hypertension (3.17; 1.12, 8.92).

Interpretation and Conclusions:

A high burden of sexual health disorders was identified among the rural men. Wider recognition of this issue is needed among the health-care providers and policymakers.

Determining the Effectiveness of Three-Gene Pyramids Against Aphis glycines (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Biotypes

Since the discovery of Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in the United States, the primary management tactic has been foliar insecticides. Alternative management options such as host plant resistance to A. glycines have been developed and their effectiveness proved. However, the use of host plant resistance was complicated by the discovery of multiple, virulent biotypes of A. glycines in the United States that are capable of overcoming single Rag genes, Rag1 and Rag2, as well as a two-gene pyramid of Rag1+Rag2. However, current models predict that the virulent allele frequency of A. glycines decreases in response to the use of pyramided Rag genes, suggesting that pyramids represent a more sustainable use of these traits. Previous research has demonstrated that virulent biotypes can be effectively managed using a three-gene pyramid of Rag1+Rag2+Rag3. Additional Rag-genes have been discovered (Rag4 and Rag5), but whether the incorporation of these genes into novel three-gene pyramids will improve efficacy is not known. We tested single-gene (Rag1 and Rag2) and pyramid cultivars (Rag1+Rag2, Rag1+Rag2+Rag3, Rag1+Rag2+Rag4) to multiple biotypes in laboratory assays. Our results confirm that the Rag1+Rag2+Rag3 pyramid effectively manages all known A. glycines biotypes when compared with cultivars that are overcome by the associated biotype. Our results indicate that Rag1+Rag2+Rag4 would be an effective management option for biotype-1, biotype-2, and biotype-3 A. glycines, but had a negligible impact on biotype-4.

Uttar Pradesh Association of Physicians of India Position Statement: Tobacco Use and Metabolic Syndrome

Tobacco use is one of the main preventable causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. The global disease burden due to tobacco use is huge with projected mortality of eight million lives per year by 2030. Metabolic syndrome (MS) is defined as a constellation of cardiovascular and endocrine risk factors such as insulin resistance, obesity, raised blood pressure, and abnormal lipid profile. The relationship between tobacco use and MS has been well established. Also, the causal association between tobacco use and development of individual components of MS is well established. The Uttar Pradesh Association of Physicians of India (UP API) has drafted this position statement on managing tobacco use among persons with or at risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome (MS). This position statement presents evidence-based recommendations as described below. Scope and purpose The objective of this position statement is to offer clinical recommendations for screening, diagnosis and management of tobacco use among persons with or at risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome (MS). The purpose of this document is to aid in identification and treatment of maladaptive patterns of tobacco use i.e. tobacco use disorder (tobacco dependence, harmful use, abuse) in person with or at risk of developing MS. Intended Audience The position statement is targeted at the clinicians engaged in care and management of person with or at risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome (MS). This might also be of relevance to the policy makers considering the public health burden of both MS and tobacco use disorders.

Computational methods for 2D materials: discovery, property characterization, and application design

The discovery of two-dimensional (2D) materials comes at a time when computational methods are mature and can predict novel 2D materials, characterize their properties, and guide the design of 2D materials for applications. This article reviews the recent progress in computational approaches for 2D materials research. We discuss the computational techniques and provide an overview of the ongoing research in the field. We begin with an overview of known 2D materials, common computational methods, and available cyber infrastructures. We then move onto the discovery of novel 2D materials, discussing the stability criteria for 2D materials, computational methods for structure prediction, and interactions of monolayers with electrochemical and gaseous environments. Next, we describe the computational characterization of the 2D materials' electronic, optical, magnetic, and superconducting properties and the response of the properties under applied mechanical strain and electrical fields. From there, we move on to discuss the structure and properties of defects in 2D materials, and describe methods for 2D materials device simulations. We conclude by providing an outlook on the needs and challenges for future developments in the field of computational research for 2D materials.

The Department of Neurosurgery, G. B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi

The history of the prestigious Department of Neurosurgery, Gobind Ballabh Pant Institute of Medical Education Institute and Research, New Delhi, a leading tertiary care centre, is presented. Its eminent faculty and outstanding patient care attracts patients and students from all over the country.The patients opt for this institution to get a standard of care that may be comparable with the highest standards prevalent; and, the students achieve their goal of getting excellent education in Neurosurgery at par with the best institutes of the world. The department has, therefore, over the years, established its place in the country as a premier training facility and an epitome of medical excellence.

Observation of self-polarization in BSA protected Au20 clusters

Bovine serum albumin (BSA)-protected gold clusters (atomicity ∼ 20), prepared using a wet chemical route, show strong dipolar radiative transition with a gap energy of 1.93 eV due to the high oscillator strength, as confirmed by the emission studies. Self-arrangement of the clusters with fixed atomicity yields a low dispersive dielectric and electric self-polarization nature. The electrical hysteresis loop measurements returned a remanent polarization of 0.05 μC cm^-2, which can be correlated with the dipolar orientation (activation energy ∼ 45.32 meV), originating from the structure-dependent deformation of the charge density.

Basion-Cartilaginous Dens Interval: An Imaging Parameter for Craniovertebral Junction Assessment in Children

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Widening of the basion-dens interval is an important sign of cranioverterbral junction injury. The current literature on basion-dens interval in children is sparse and based on bony measurements with variable values. Our goal was to establish the normal values of a recently described new imaging parameter, the basion-cartilaginous dens interval in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three hundred healthy pediatric patients (0-10 years of age) were selected retrospectively. These patients were divided into 3 different groups: A (0-3 years), B (3-6 years), and C (6-10 years). The basion-cartilaginous dens interval was calculated on the sagittal MPR image of cervical spine CT in a soft-tissue window. The mean, SD, and the upper limit of normal (mean +2 SDs) of the 3 groups were calculated, and statistical tests were used to check for significant differences of the basion-cartilaginous dens interval among these 3 groups.

RESULTS

The upper limits of the basion-cartilaginous dens interval for the 3 groups were 5.34 mm in group A, 5.64 mm in group B, and 7.24 mm in group C. There were statistically significant differences in the basion-cartilaginous dens interval values among the 3 groups. There was no statistically significant difference in basion-cartilaginous dens interval values between groups A and B; however, values in group C were significantly different from those in both A and B. There was no statistically significant difference in the basion-cartilaginous dens interval values between males and females.

CONCLUSIONS

The basion-cartilaginous dens interval is a novel imaging parameter to assess cranioverterbral junction integrity in children, which includes the nonossified cartilage in the measurement.

Conformational analysis of a synthetic fish kisspeptin 1 peptide in membrane mimicking environments

Kisspeptin 1 is a neuropeptide hormone of the RFamide family, which act as an upstream regulator of brain-pituitary-gonad (BPG) axis in most vertebrates including teleosts. In the present study, a 16 amino acid long putative mature bioactive peptide (kiss 1) from preprokisspeptin 1 of golden mahseer, Tor putitora (Hamilton, 1822), was synthesized and characterized using an integrated (experimental and in silico) approach. The far-UV circular dichroism (CD) spectrum of this peptide was evaluated both in aqueous and membrane mimicking solvents (TFE, HFIP and Dioxane). The results indicate that kiss 1 peptide adopted helical, turn and β conformations in membrane like environments. The near-UV CD spectroscopy was also carried out to examine the tertiary packing around aromatic residues of kiss 1 peptide and the peptide-membrane complex. The kiss 1 peptide exhibited little signal in water, but a prominent negative band was observed at around 275 nm when membrane mimetic solution was added. The observed ordered conformations of kiss 1 peptide in the different solvents indicated its potential biological activity which could enhance the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) at BPG axis. The conformational information generated from the present study reinforces the application prospects of bioactive synthetic peptide analogs of kisspeptin 1 in improving the reproductive performances of important cultivable fish species.

Causes of and contributors to infant mortality in a rural community of North India: evidence from verbal and social autopsy

OBJECTIVE

To identify the medical causes of death and contribution of non-biological factors towards infant mortality by a retrospective analysis of routinely collected data using verbal and social autopsy tools.

SETTING

The study site was Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS), Ballabgarh, North India PARTICIPANTS: All infant deaths during the years 2008-2012 were included for verbal autopsy and infant deaths from July 2012 to December 2012 were included for social autopsy.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Cause of death ascertained by a validated verbal autopsy tool and level of delay based on a three-delay model using the INDEPTH social autopsy tool were the main outcome measures. The level of delay was defined as follows: level 1, delay in identification of danger signs and decision making to seek care; level 2, delay in reaching a health facility from home; level 3, delay in getting healthcare at the health facility.

RESULTS

The infant mortality rate during the study period was 46.5/1000 live births. Neonatal deaths contributed to 54.3% of infant deaths and 39% occurred on the first day of life. Birth asphyxia (31.5%) followed by low birth weight (LBW)/prematurity (26.5%) were the most common causes of neonatal death, while infection (57.8%) was the most common cause of post-neonatal death. Care-seeking was delayed among 50% of neonatal deaths and 41.2% of post-neonatal deaths. Delay at level 1 was most common and occurred in 32.4% of neonatal deaths and 29.4% of post-neonatal deaths. Deaths due to LBW/prematurity were mostly followed by delay at level 1.

CONCLUSION

A high proportion of preventable infant mortality still exists in an area which is under continuous health and demographic surveillance. There is a need to enhance home-based preventive care to enable the mother to identify and respond to danger signs. Verbal autopsy and social autopsy could be routinely done to guide policy interventions aimed at reduction of infant mortality.

Hydrogen peroxide test for intraoperative bile leak detection

BACKGROUND

Bile leakage (BL) is a common complication following liver surgery, ranging from 3 to 27% in different series. To reduce the incidence of post-operative BL various BL tests have been applied since ages, but no method is foolproof and every method has their own limitations. In this study we used a relatively simpler technique to detect the BL intra-operatively. Topical application of 1.5% diluted hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) was used to detect the BL from cut surface of liver and we compared this with conventional saline method to know the efficacy.

METHODS

A total of 31 patients included all patients who underwent liver resection and donor hepatectomies as part of Living Donor Liver Transplantation. After complete liver resection, the conventional saline test followed by topical diluted 1.5% H₂O₂ test was performed on all.

RESULTS

A BL was demonstrated in 11 patients (35.48%) by the conventional saline method and in 19 patients (61.29%) by H₂O₂ method. Statistically compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed significant difference (P = 0.014) for minor liver resections group and (P = 0.002) for major liver resections group.

CONCLUSION

The topical application of H₂O₂ is a simple and effective method of detection of BL from cut surface of liver. It is an easy, non-invasive, cheap, less time consuming, reproducible, and sensitive technique with no obvious disadvantages.

Clinical Profile of Pediatric Oncology Patients Treated by External Beam Radiotherapy: An Institutional Experience

Introduction:

Pediatric tumors are a heterogeneous group of malignant conditions requiring multimodal treatment, and management of such cases is at time challenging. We present the clinical profile of pediatric cancer patients who received radiation, either alone or as adjuvant to surgery and chemotherapy; in prophylactic, radical or palliative clinical setting.

Aim:

This study was envisaged to review our experience of pediatric oncology cases, their clinical and morphological profile, dosage schedule of radiotherapy, and the therapy induced complications.

Settings and Design:

This was a retrospective, observational study carried out in an apex tertiary care cancer institute of government set-up in a developing country.

Materials and Methods:

The treatment charts and clinical summary of patients who had received radiation over the last 5 years period were retrieved and perused. Various clinical and pathological parameters were studied and inferences drawn.

Results:

A total of 50 patients got radiation over 5 year study-period, including 37 male and 13 female patients. The commonest age group of presentation was 8-12 years followed by 13-16 years. The mean age of presentation was 9.3 years. The most common diagnosis was hematological malignancies followed by CNS tumors with 21 and 13 patients respectively. Overall the most common indication of RT was in adjuvant setting after surgery as the definitive management, where 24 patients were irradiated; and the next common indication was prophylactic cranial irradiation in 14 patients of childhood leukemias. 10 patients tolerated treatment with Grade 1 site-specific or systemic toxicities while 7 patients developed Grade 2 and more systemic toxicities. 9 patients received craniospinal irradiation, common indications being medulloblastoma and Atypical teratoma rhabdoid tumor (ATRT). 3 patients received concurrent chemotherapy with weekly Inj Vincristine. 17 patients required sedation or short general anaesthesia for radiation planning and execution.

Conclusion:

External beam Radiotherapy constitutes an important component of management of pediatric cancers. One should be judicious in Radiotherapy planning, execution and monitoring acute and delayed toxicities.

Consensus on Insulin Dose and Titration Algorithms in Ambulatory Care of Type 2 Diabetes in India

INSTRUCTION

Insulin is the oldest of the currently available treatment options in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is considered as the most effective glucose lowering agent. Despite this, decision on starting insulin therapy is often delayed in India as well as worldwide due to various barriers at both patient and physician levels. Appropriate insulin dosing and titration is also critical to the successful achievement of tight glycaemic control.

OBJECTIVE

To provide simple and easily implementable guidelines to primary care physicians on appropriate insulin dosing and titration of various insulin regimens for both initiation and intensification.

METHODOLOGY

Each insulin regimen (once daily [OD] basal, OD, twice daily and thrice daily premixed, basal-plus and basal-bolus) was presented and evaluated for dosing and titration based on established guidelines, data from approved pack inserts, and published scientific literature. These evaluations were then factored into the national context based on the expert committee representatives patient-physician experience in their clinical practice and common therapeutic practices followed in India.

RESULTS

Recommendations for dosing and titration of basal, basal-plus, premixed and basal-bolus insulins were developed. The key recommendations are that insulin doses can be adjusted once or twice weekly; adjustment can be based on lowest/mean of three recent self-monitoring of plasma glucose pre-meal/fasting plasma glucose (FPG) values. The titration should be based on FPG or pre-meal value of 80-130 mg/dL and the dose should be reduced by 10-20% for patients reporting hypoglycaemia(<70mg/dL).

CONCLUSIONS

The consensus based recommendations mentioned in this paper will be a useful reference tool for health care practitioners, to initiate, optimise and intensify insulin therapy and to successfully achieve optimal glucose control.

Metabolomics approach discriminates toxicity index of pyrazinamide and its metabolic products, pyrazinoic acid and 5-hydroxy pyrazinoic acid

Pyrazinamide (PYZ)-an essential component of primary drug regimen used for the treatment and management of multidrug resistant or latent tuberculosis-is well known for its hepatoxicity. However, the mechanism of PYZ-induced hepatotoxicity is still unknown to researchers. Studies have shown that the drug is metabolized in the liver to pyrazinoic acid (PA) and 5-hydroxy pyrazinoic acid (5-OHPA) which individually may cause different degrees of hepatotoxicity. To evaluate this hypothesis, PYZ, PA, and 5-OHPA were administered to albino Wistar rats orally (respectively, at 250, 125, and 125 mg kg^-1 for 28 days). Compared to normal rats, PYZ and its metabolic products decreased the weights of dosed rats and induced liver injury and a status of oxidative stress as assessed by combined histopathological and biochemical analysis. Compared to normal controls, the biochemical and morphological changes were more aberrant in PA- and 5-OHPA-dosed rats with respect to those dosed with PYZ. Finally, the serum metabolic profiles of rats dosed with PYZ, PA, and 5-OHPA were measured and compared with those of normal control rats. With respect to normal control rats, the rats dosed with PYZ and 5-OHPA showed most aberrant metabolic perturbations in their sera as compared to those dosed with PA. Altogether, the study suggests that PYZ-induced hepatotoxicity might be associated with its metabolized products, where 5-OHPA contributes to a higher degree in its overall toxicity than PA.

Acceptance rate, probability of follow-up, and expulsion of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device offered at two primary health centers, North India

Introduction:

Acceptance rate of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device (PPIUCD) offered through a public health approach is unknown. Our aim was to describe the acceptance rate, expulsion, and follow-up and factors associated with it when PPIUCD was offered to women delivering at two primary health centers (PHCs).

Methods:

We analyzed routine health data of deliveries at two PHCs in district Faridabad, India between May and December 2014, having sociodemographic variables, obstetric history, and during the follow-up check-up at 6-weeks postpartum for in situ status of intrauterine contraceptive device, side effects, and complications.

Results:

The overall acceptance rate among those eligible for PPIUCD was 39% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 35.1–42.9). Independent predictor of acceptance was a monthly family income of <USD75$ (odds ratio [O.R.]: 2.29, 95% CI: 1.58–3.31). The expulsion rate, and removal rate at 6 weeks postpartum was 18.0% and 13.0%, respectively. Expulsion by 6 weeks was associated with, age >25 years (O.R.: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.03–4.73), gravida ≥4 (O.R.: 4.01, 95% CI: 1.28–12.56), and a living previous-child (O.R.: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.04–2.19).

Conclusion:

Acceptance rate of PPIUCD was higher than that reported in literature. Women from lower income family, having at least one living child, and having attended antenatal care clinic were more likely to accept PPIUCD.

Effect of developed acidity and neutralization of milk on sensory, microstructural and textural changes in khoa prepared from cow and buffalo milk

Khoa is a heat desiccated milk product which serves as base material for traditional dairy based Indian sweets. Sensory, textural and microstructural changes in khoa were studied to assess the effect of developed acidity and neutralization of milk. Noticeable changes were observed in sensory, textural and micro structural quality of khoa as affected by quality of milk. Lower hardness, springiness, cohesiveness and accordingly, gumminess and chewiness were observed in khoa manufactured using neutralized milk due to higher moisture retention as compared to control and acidic milk khoa. It was also evident from the Scanning Electron Microscopy that higher moisture retention in neutralized milk khoa resulted in elongation of native microstructure of khoa by suppressing the grain formation leading to smooth and plain surface while, developed acidity in milk resulted in greater granule formation in the resulting khoa causing shrinkage of native microstructure and acidic flavour in khoa. Similarly, acidification and subsequent neutralization of milk adversely affected sensory attributes of resulting khoa.

Hysteretic photochromic switching of Eu-Mg defects in GaN links the shallow transient and deep ground states of the Mg acceptor

Although p-type activation of GaN by Mg underpins a mature commercial technology, the nature of the Mg acceptor in GaN is still controversial. Here, we use implanted Eu as a ‘spectator ion’ to probe the lattice location of Mg in doubly doped GaN(Mg):Eu. Photoluminescence spectroscopy of this material exemplifies hysteretic photochromic switching (HPS) between two configurations, Eu0 and Eu1(Mg), of the same Eu-Mg defect, with a hyperbolic time dependence on ‘switchdown’ from Eu0 to Eu1(Mg). The sample temperature and the incident light intensity at 355 nm tune the characteristic switching time over several orders of magnitude, from less than a second at 12.5 K, ~100 mW/cm² to (an estimated) several hours at 50 K, 1 mW/cm². Linking the distinct Eu-Mg defect configurations with the shallow transient and deep ground states of the Mg acceptor in the Lany-Zunger model, we determine the energy barrier between the states to be 27.7(4) meV, in good agreement with the predictions of theory. The experimental results further suggest that at low temperatures holes in deep ground states are localized on N atoms axially bonded to Mg acceptors.

Comparison of Guy’s vs S.T.O.N.E. nephrolithometry scoring systems in predicting the success rate of PCNL

Introduction and objective:

The aim of the present study was to compare the accuracy of the Guy’s and S.T.O.N.E. scoring systems in predicting percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) outcomes.

Methods:

This prospective study was carried out in the Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, between August 2013 and September 2015 in collaboration with the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging. A total of 100 cases of renal calculi operated on with PCNL were considered in the study on the basis of CT morphodensitometry. The study was approved by the institute’s ethical committee. Guy’s and S.T.O.N.E. scoring systems were calculated. Regression analysis and ROC curves were performed.

Results:

A total of 100 PCNLs were operated on. The overall stone-free rate was 90% with a complication rate of 17%. When compared to patients with residual fragments, stone-free patients had significantly lower Guy’s grade (3.5 vs 2; p < 0.001) and S.T.O.N.E. score (9.1 vs 7.5; p = 0.023). Logistic regression analysis showed that both Guy’s and S.T.O.N.E. systems were significantly associated with stone-free status, OR 0.96 ( p < 0.001) and OR 0.94 ( p < 0.001), respectively. Furthermore, both scoring systems were significantly associated with estimated blood loss ( p = 0.02 and p = 0.004). There was good correlation between both scoring systems and operative time ( r = 0.2, p < 0.002 and r = 0.3, p < 0.002) and length of hospital stay ( r = 0.1, p = 0.002 and r = 0.2, p < 0.002). There were significant associations between both scoring systems and complications ( p < 0.001 and p = 0.004). There was no significant difference in the areas under the curves for the Guy’s and S.T.O.N.E. scoring systems (0.96 (95% CI 0.92–0.99) vs 0.94 (95% CI 0.89–1.001); p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Both Guy’s and S.T.O.N.E scoring systems have comparable accuracies in predicting post-PCNL stone-free status. Other factors not included in either scoring system may need to be incorporated in the future to increase their accuracy.

Supplementation of corn seed with regular diet modulates immune function and antioxidant status in Capra hircus

Melatonin modulates the functional activation of antioxidative enzymes to maintain the oxidant-antioxidant balance in the physiological system. Melatonin administration via subcutaneous injection increases endogenous melatonin concentration that has been used to modulate the immune function in rodents and reproductive activity in small ruminant like goats. However, to date, no report exist which could suggest the effect of corn seed supplementation on the endogenous melatonin concentration and its impact on cellular-immune function and antioxidative enzymes activity in any small ruminant like goats. Therefore, in this study, Zea mays (corn seeds), as source of melatonin, were supplemented with regular diet to explore its impact on endogenous melatonin concentration in goat, Capra hircus. Zea mays supplementation with regular diet for 40 days significantly elevated the endogenous melatonin concentration, proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and antioxidative enzymes activity along with total antioxidant capacity of the plasma. An increase in circulatory IL-2 and IL-6 level along with declined TNF-α, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide was noted with elevated endogenous melatonin concentration. In conclusion, it might be suggested that corn seed could be used as supplement to modulate endogenous melatonin concentration that may improve cellular-immune function and antioxidant status. The corn seed might also be included as nutraceutical in regular diet to maintain immune-antioxidant homoeostasis in other species.

A quantitative assessment of the functional recovery of flexion of the elbow after nerve transfer in patients with a brachial plexus injury

AIMS

Improvements in the evaluation of outcome after nerve transfers are required. The assessment of force using the Medical Research Council (MRC) grades (0 to 5) is not suitable for this purpose. A ceiling effect is encountered within MRC grade 4/5 rendering this tool insensitive. Our aim was to show how the strength of flexion of the elbow could be assessed in patients who have undergone a re-innervation procedure using a continuous measurement scale.

METHODS

A total of 26 patients, 23 men and three women, with a mean age of 37.3 years (16 to 66), at the time of presentation, attended for review from a cohort of 52 patients who had undergone surgery to restore flexion of the elbow after a brachial plexus injury and were included in this retrospective study. The mean follow-up after nerve transfer was 56 months (28 to 101, standard deviation (sd) 20.79). The strength of flexion of the elbow was measured in a standard outpatient environment with a static dynamometer.

RESULTS

In total, 21 patients (81%) gained MRC grade 4 strength of flexion of the elbow. The mean force of flexion was 7.2 kgf (3 to 15.5, sd 3.3).

CONCLUSION

This study establishes that the dynamometer may be used for assessing the strength of flexion of the elbow in the outpatient department after nerve reconstructive surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1517-20.

Population Genetics of Drosophila: Genetic Variation and Differentiation among Indian Natural Populations of Drosophila ananassae

Sanjay Kumar and Arvind Kumar Singh (2017) Genetic subdivision in natural populations of animals including Drosophila can be well understood by studying the role of evolutionary forces like natural selection, migration and genetic drift which are mainly responsible for the change in their genome. Drosophila ananassae is a cosmopolitan and domestic species and is one of the prevalently occurring Drosophila species in India. It occupies an important status in genus Drosophila due to its certain genetic peculiarities like spontaneous male meiotic crossing over, varied chromosomal polymorphism, Y-4 linkage of nucleolus organizer etc. and therefore, it seemed appropriate to investigate population structure and genetic differentiation among its natural populations. We assayed allozyme variation among 15 natural Indian populations of D. ananassae to evaluate its population structure and genetic differentiation. To test genetic differentiation between the populations, pairwise FST values were calculated and the results obtained clearly showed that Indian populations of D. ananassae are not homogeneous and exhibit moderate level of genetic differentiation. Nei's genetic distance (D) values were found to be positively correlated with geographic distance. Further, it was observed that South Indian populations of D. ananassae are genetically more similar to each other and showed substantial genetic variation from North Indian populations.

Free radicals hasten head and neck cancer risk: A study of total oxidant, total antioxidant, DNA damage, and histological grade

Background:

Free radicals such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce oxidative stress, are the main contributors to head and neck carcinogenesis (HNC). The present study was conducted with the aim to assess the oxidant/antioxidant status and DNA damage analysis in head and neck cancer/control patients.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study was conducted on 60 patients with biopsy-proven HNC and 17 patients of head and neck disease (HND). The total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) were determined by novel automatic colorimetric methods from tissue homogenate. DNA damage analysis was determined by single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE).

Results:

The mean age of the study cohort was 46.65 ± 14.84 years for HNC patients, while it was 49.41 ± 13.00 years for HND patients. There were no significant differences found between the two groups with respect to demographic presentation except tobacco addiction. The association between oxidative stress parameters and DNA damage analysis with study group revealed the following. (A) DNA damage - tissue homogenate TOS and OSI were significantly higher in HNC subjects than in HND (16.06 ± 1.78 AU vs 7.86 ± 5.97 AU, P < 0.001; 53.00 ± 40.61 vs 19.67 ± 21.90, P < 0.01; 7.221 ± 5.80 vs 2.40 ± 2.54, P < 0.01, respectively), while TAS was significantly decreased. (B) Aggressive histological features were identified, more commonly with higher TOS and lower TAS [probability (P) = 0.002, relative risk (RR) = 11.838, 95% confidence interval CI = 2.514-55.730 and P = 0.043, RR = 0.271, 95% CI = 0.077-0.960, respectively].

Conclusion:

The increase in free radicals may be the event that led to the reduction of antioxidant status in HNC, thus explaining the oxidative damage of DNA and the severity of disease. Increased OSI represents a general mechanism in its pathogenesis.

Can mid-upper arm circumference and calf circumference be the proxy measures to detect undernutrition among elderly? Findings of a community-based survey in rural Puducherry, India

Introduction:

Major proportion of the elderly with under nutrition is undetected in the community. One of the feasible ways to detect under nutrition among elderly would be screening in the field settings. in this study, we aimed to identify the utility of alternate anthropometric measures such as mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), calf circumference, and skin fold thickness in identifying under nutrition among elderly.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional survey was done among elderly in one of the randomly selected subcenters. Anthropometric measures such as weight, arm span, MUAC, and triceps skinfold thickness were measured as per the standard measurement guidelines by a trained medical graduate. The elderly were identified as undernourished if body mass index (BMI) is <18.5 kg/m². Utility of alternate anthropometric markers against BMI is represented by area under the curve (AUC) value from receiver operating characteristic curve and correlation coefficient (r).

Results:

Mean MUAC, calf circumference, and triceps skinfold thickness measured among 271 elderly were 25.6 cm ± 3.7 cm, 27.6 cm ± 3.7 cm, and 3.0 mm ± 1.3 mm, respectively. Among all three proxy anthropometric measures, MUAC had the highest AUC value (AUC = 0.88) Triceps skinfold thickness had the least AUC (AUC = 0.61). The correlation of anthropometric measurements such as MUAC, calf circumference, and triceps skinfold thickness with BMI was 0.74, –0.04, and 0.64, respectively.

Conclusion:

As MUAC and calf circumference are easy to measure and they are highly correlating with BMI, they can be used routinely by peripheral field workers to assess undernutrition in elderly during their regular house visits.

Histogenesis of Human Fetal Spleen

Background and Aims: Spleen is the largest secondary lymphatic organ. It acts as a graveyard for RBCs, is essential for immune responses, performs lymphopoiesis in adults and haemopoiesis in fetuses. The present study was conducted to assess the histogenesis of spleen in human fetuses in view of existing literature. Material and Methods: The study was carried out on 34 formalin preserved human fetuses procured from Dr Sushila Tiwari Government Hospital, Haldwani with due clearance from ethical committee. The 6 pm sections of the spleen were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin and observed under light microscope. Results: At 14 tol5 weeks, spleen had extensive sinusoids filled with RBCs and few lymphocytes. At 16-18 weeks, trabecular arteries were noticed more towards centre along with extensive haemopoietic cells in the venous sinusoids. By 20th week lymphocytic aggregation had started around arterioles. By 24 weeks periarteriolar lymphatic sheath was clearly observed. At term (37-40 weeks), classical primary lymphoid follicle was present but germinal centers were not observed. Conclusion: During earlier differentiation, spleen symbolizes the function of haemopoietic activities and gradually during subsequent gestation; it establishes its identity as a principle lymphoid tissue.

Comparative efficacy of deltamethrin and chlorpyriphos in bovine ticks in and around Jabalpur

Efficacy of chlorpyriphos (Classic*20, 20% EC) and deltamethrin (Butox^®, 1.25% EC) was assessed by spraying these drugs on cattle and buffaloes which were naturally infested with ticks at the concentration of 2.5 and 2 ml/l, respectively. Results of the study demonstrated the prolonged effect of chlorpyriphos when compared with deltamethrin. Moreover, residual effect of chlorpyriphos remained even after 14 days of treatment with 28.57% animals showing reinfestation, while in deltamethrin treated animals; the tick number started increasing after 14th day of treatment with 50% animals showing reinfestation on 14th day post-treatment.

Histomorphological changes in digestive tract of golden mahseer (Tor putitora) during different developmental stages

Histomorphological changes in digestive tract of golden mahseer (Tor putitora) were examined in larvae [starting from hatching to 45 days post-hatching (dph)], fry, fingerling, and adult. Digestive tract appeared during hatching, on the dorsal side of yolk sac, as a straight tube with a narrow lumen. Mouth opening and appearance of liver and pancreas were observed at 2 dph, and subsequently anal opening, appearance of goblet cells in esophagus, and posterior intestine were evident at 3 dph. The remodeling of oral cavity in terms of epithelial stratification, appearance of taste buds, and goblet cells were observed in a window of 4-5 dph. Intestinal folding was found to be initiated at 8 dph. From 12 to 45 dph, thickening of oral and esophageal mucosal/extramucosal layers, increase in intestinal folding, increases in the density of goblet cells in entire gut were observed. Within the same time window, other histological changes such as disappearance of vacuoles in liver, and abundance of zymogen granules in pancreas were also observed. Supranuclear vesicles in mid-to-posterior intestine were found to be prominent from first feeding to 45 dph; however, this phenomenon was no longer evident in fry and fingerling. Overall, the increase in intestinal folding and complexity of extramucosal layer were found to be continuous from the first appearance to adult, and this inferred the fact that the nutritional physiology, in terms of digestion and assimilation, progressively changes throughout the life stages of golden mahseer. Findings of this study will, therefore, help in preparing diets for different life stages of this fish, and in addition, the present information widens the understanding of digestive physiology of golden mahseer.

Effect of testicular tissue lysate on developmental competence of porcine oocytes matured and fertilized in vitro

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of testicular tissue lysate (TTL) on developmental competence of germinal vesicle (GV) stage porcine oocytes. Two types of TTL were prepared through repeated freeze-thaw in liquid nitrogen, one from whole testicular tissue (wTTL) and other from either of four different sections of testes, namely just beneath the tunica albuginea (TA), from the transitional area between the seminiferous cord/tubules and the mediastinum testis (TR) and from the intermediate area (parenchymal tissue origin) and CE (cauda epididymis origin). The whole or section-wise TTL treatments were given for 44 hr during in vitro maturation (IVM). Oocyte maturation was done in either of the two media, namely defined (high-performance basic medium for porcine oocyte maturation, commercially available) and serum containing (TCM199). After maturation, oocytes were co-incubated with fresh spermatozoa for 6 hr and then transferred to embryo culture media. Treatment of GV stage oocytes with wTTL (1 mg/ml) increased the cleavage and morula percentage rate (69.23 ± 6.23 and 48.15 ± 6.77, respectively) than that of their control (58.33 ± 8.08 and 32.54 ± 5.53, respectively) in defined media, and in serum-containing media, cleavage and morula percentage rate were almost equal in both treatment (54.56 ± 7.79 and 34.70 ± 6.78, respectively) and control (59.52 ± 8.21 and 38.52 ± 6.54, respectively). However, effect of wTTL was not significant. In case of section-wise TTL supplements, TR section significantly (p < .01) improved cleavage and morula rate (58.43 ± 7.98 and 36.14 ± 6.89, respectively) followed by TA. In conclusion, present study indicates that IVM, in vitro fertilization and in vitro culture of embryo are improved in the presence of TTL, particularly its TR section. Further study is expected to reveal the principal components of TTL which may prove useful for IVM.

BenzoDODA grafted polymeric resin-Plutonium selective solid sorbent

A new ligand grafted polymeric resin (BenzoDODA SDVB) was synthesized by covalently attaching plutonium selective ligand (BenzoDODA) on to styrene divinyl benzene (SDVB) polymer matrix. BenzoDODA SDVB resin was evaluated for separation and recovery of plutonium(IV) from nitric acid medium. Sorption of Pu(IV) was found to decrease with the increase in nitric acid concentration, with very small sorption above 7.0M HNO3. Sorption kinetics was fast enough to achieve the equilibrium within 60min of contact where the kinetic data fitted well to pseudo-second-order model. Sorption isotherm data fitted well to Langmuir model suggesting chemical interaction between the BenzoDODA moiety and plutonium(IV) ions. Sorption studies with some of representative radionuclides of high level waste showed that BenzoDODA SDVB is selective and therefore could be a promising solid sorbent for separation and recovery of plutonium. Further, the theoretical calculations done on BenzoDODA SDVB resin suggested Pu(NO3)4·BenzoDODA (1:1) sorbed complex conformed to generally observed square antiprism geometry of the plutonium complexes, with contributions from oxygen atoms of four nitrate ions as well as from four oxygen atoms present in BenzoDODA (two phenolic ether oxygen atoms and two carbonyl oxygen atoms of amidic moiety).

Morpho-histological and ultra architectural changes during early development of endangered golden mahseer Tor putitora

Ultrastructural and histological changes in the embryonic and larval surface during ontogenesis of the endangered golden mahseer Tor putitora is studied here for the first time. Embryonic development was completed 91-92 h after fertilization at an ambient temperature of 23° ± 1° C (mean ± s.d.). The gastrula stage was characterized by presence of the Kupffer's vesicle, notochord, ectoderm and endoderm cells. Primordial germ cells were clearly identifiable from c. 55 h post-fertilization at the organogenesis stage. Mean total length of newly hatched larvae was 7·0 ± 0·5 mm. Scanning electron microscopy of newly hatched larvae demonstrated vitelline arteries, microridged epithelial cells and mucous gland openings over much of the body surface. Eye, oral cavity, pharyngeal arches, heart, intestinal loop, prosencephalon, cephalic vesicle and nasal epithelium were clearly distinguished in 3 day old hatched individuals. In 6 day old individuals, caudal-fin rays and internal organs were evident. The dorsal fin became prominent at this stage and larvae began swimming at the surface. The reserved yolk material was totally absorbed 8-11 days after hatching and larvae began feeding exogenously. Tor putitora exhibited a longer early developmental period than other cyprinids reared at similar temperatures.

Prediction of entropy stabilized incommensurate phases in the system MoS2 -MoTe2

A first principles phase diagram calculation, that included van der Waals interactions, was performed for the 3D bulk system (1 - X) · MoS₂ - (X) · MoTe₂. Surprisingly, the predicted phase diagram has at least two ordered phases, at X ≈ 0:46, even though all calculated formation energies are positive; in a ground-state analysis that examined all configurations with 16 or fewer anion sites. The lower-temperature I-phase is predicted to transform to a higher-temperature I'-phase at T ≈ 500 K, and I' disorders at T ≈ 730 K. Both these transitions are predicted to be first-order, and there are broad two-phase fields on both sides of the ordered regions. Both the I- and I'-phases are predicted to be incommensurate, i.e., aperiodic: I-phase in three dimensions; and I'-phase in two dimensions.

Prenatal glomerular changes during development of human foetal kidney

Background and aims: The cortical glomerulus shows many developmental changes during fetogenesis. Nonnalhistologyofthe fetal glomerulus at various stages of development was studied to get insight into the morphology of fetal glomerulus. Fetal glomerular study is a necessity for correlation with increase in gestational age and pathological changes which may affect the normal functioning of kidneys in fetal life. Method: Dissection of 70 normal human fetuses was carried out and histological findings of glomerulus were noted with respect to the age of fetus. The histology of fetal kidney was studied using H & E stain. Important developmental stages of glomerulus were observed. Results: Fetal kidney glomerulus histology is different from adult. Unlike in adult kidney, foetal kidney glomerulus shows many developmental stages as v, c, s, cresentric in starting phase. Multiple rows arrangement in between mednllary rays with well developed mature glomeruli at juxtamednllary junction. Capillary invagination with developed Juxta glomerular apparatus was appreciated. Nephrogenic zone which was found as hroad band in early gestational weeks disappeared near term. Conclusion: The present study will be helpful in understanding the normal histological architecture of foetal kidney glomerulus and add to the existing knowledge regarding development of foetal kidney, its relation with gestational age and pathogenesis.

Rasmussen Aneurysm

Angiographic findings in tuberculosis patients presenting with hemoptysis include hypervascularity, hypertrophy of systemic arteries, aneurysm, systemic to pulmonary anastomosis, and rarely, contrast extravasation. Bronchial arteries are the source of hemorrhage in majority of cases with non-bronchial systemic or pulmonary arteries being less common as the source. Rasmussen's Aneurysm is a very rare sequalae of Pulmonary Tuberculosis. We present one such case of Rasmussen's aneurysm and review of the relevant literature.

Nasal mask ventilation is better than face mask ventilation in edentulous patients

Background and Aims:

Face mask ventilation of the edentulous patient is often difficult as ineffective seating of the standard mask to the face prevents attainment of an adequate air seal. The efficacy of nasal ventilation in edentulous patients has been cited in case reports but has never been investigated.

Material and Methods:

Consecutive edentulous adult patients scheduled for surgery under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation, during a 17-month period, were prospectively evaluated. After induction of anesthesia and administration of neuromuscular blocker, lungs were ventilated with a standard anatomical face mask of appropriate size, using a volume controlled anesthesia ventilator with tidal volume set at 10 ml/kg. In case of inadequate ventilation, the mask position was adjusted to achieve best-fit. Inspired and expired tidal volumes were measured. Thereafter, the face mask was replaced by a nasal mask and after achieving best-fit, the inspired and expired tidal volumes were recorded. The difference in expired tidal volumes and airway pressures at best-fit with the use of the two masks and number of patients with inadequate ventilation with use of the masks were statistically analyzed.

Results:

A total of 79 edentulous patients were recruited for the study. The difference in expiratory tidal volumes with the use of the two masks at best-fit was statistically significant (P = 0.0017). Despite the best-fit mask placement, adequacy of ventilation could not be achieved in 24.1% patients during face mask ventilation, and 12.7% patients during nasal mask ventilation and the difference was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Nasal mask ventilation is more efficient than standard face mask ventilation in edentulous patients.

Statin therapy/lipid lowering therapy among Indian adults with first acute coronary event: The dyslipidemia Residual and Mixed Abnormalities IN spite of Statin therapy (REMAINS) study

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective was to evaluate the effect of statin therapy/lipid lowering therapy (LLT) on lipid profile, in adults presenting with first acute coronary event.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

A multicentre, observational, prospective cohort study of lipid profiles pre- and post-statin therapy/LLT, among adult patients with confirmed diagnosis of first acute coronary event. The primary outcome measures were low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in mg/dl, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in mg/dl and triglycerides (TG) in mg/dl at baseline and end of study (EOS, 12 weeks [mean: 13.5 weeks]).

RESULTS

Totally 474 patients completed the study. Number of patients with any LDL-C abnormality (LDL-C [all; LDL was abnormal, either alone or along with other lipid parameter(s)]) decreased from 118 (24.9%) to 27 (5.7%), and for LDL-C (only; only the LDL was abnormal), from 46 (9.7%) to 13 (2.7%), both from baseline to EOS. Of 118 patients with high LDL-C (all) at baseline, 91 (77.1%) had reduction in LDL-C to <100mg/dl, of which 54 (45.8%) had LDL-C <70mg/dl at EOS. The patients with LDL-C fraction abnormalities decreased, while HDL-C abnormalities increased at EOS from baseline. No major difference was observed at baseline and EOS in levels of TG (all [TG was abnormal, either alone or along with other lipid parameter(s)]) and TG (only [only the TG was abnormal]). Six (1.3%) had seven serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Though statin therapy is effective in lowering LDL-C, there still remains residual dyslipidemia, which probably should be tackled with therapeutic and non-therapeutic options.

Monitoring temperature sensitivity of soil organic carbon decomposition under maize-wheat cropping systems in semi-arid India

Long-term storage of soil organic carbon (SOC) is essential for sustainability of agricultural ecosystems and maintaining overall environment quality as soils contain a significant part of global carbon stocks. In this study, we attempted to explain the carbon mineralization and temperature sensitivity of SOC in maize-wheat systems, a common cropping system in the semi-arid regions of India. Soil samples(0-0.15 m) from long-term experimental plots laid in split plot design with two tillage systems (conventional tillage and bed planting) and six nutrient management treatments (T 1 = control, T 2 = 120 kg urea-N/ha, T 3 = T2 (25 % N substituted by farmyard manure (FYM)), T 4 = T 2 (25 % N substituted by sewage sludge), T 5 = T 2 + crop residue, T 6 = 100 % recommended doses of N through organic source - 50 % FYM + 25 % biofertilizer + 25 % crop residue) were incubated at different temperatures (25, 30, 35, and 40 °C) to determine the thermal sensitivity parameters associated with carbon mineralization. Earlier reports suggest a selective preservation of C3-derived carbon fractions over C4 in the SOC pool, and this is the first instance where δ (13)C signatures (C4-derived carbon) were used as a qualitative measure to assess thermal sensitivity of SOC pools in the maize-wheat crop rotation systems of semi-arid India. Among the nutrient management treatments, mineral fertilizers were found to add more C4-derived carbon to the SOC pool in both the tillage systems but shows less promise in SOC stability as indicated by their lower activation energies (Ea) (14.25 kJ mol(-1)). Conventional tillage was found to mineralize 18.80 % (T 1-control at 25 °C) to 29.93 % carbon (T 3-mineral fertilizer + FYM at 40 °C) during the 150 days of incubation which was significantly higher than bed planting system (14.90 % in T 1-control at 25 °C and 21.99 % in T 6-100% organic sources at 40 °C). Organic manures, especially FYM (19.11 kJ mol(-1)) and 100 % organics (19.33 kJ mol(-1)) were more effective in enhancing the Ea of SOC than plots with mineral fertilizers alone (14.25 kJ mol(-1)), but had relatively higher Q 10 values thereby corroborating the thermal sensitivity hypothesis of recalcitrant organic compounds in soil. Michaelis-Menten derivatives along with thermal sensitivity indicators such as Ea and Q 10 were found to be efficient parameters for explaining carbon mineralization and CO2 efflux from soils.

Authentication of five Barilius species from Indian waters using DNA barcoding

Authentic identification of fish species is essential for conserving them as a valuable genetic resource in our environment. DNA barcoding of living beings has become an important and ultimate tool for establishing their molecular identity. Among cyprinids, Barilius is an important genus having nearly 23 species in Indian region whose morphological identification is often difficult due to minute differences in their features. Five species collected from Indian waters and primarily identified as Opsarius bakeri (syn. Barilius bakeri), B. gatensis, B. vagra, B. bendelisis and B. ngawa were authenticated by their DNA barcoding based on mitochondrial COI gene sequences. Five individuals of each species were taken for barcode preparation by COI gene sequencing which yielded one barcode for B. ngawa, two barcodes each for O. bakeri, B. gatensis, B. bendelisis and three barcodes for B. vagra. The order of inter and intra-specific variation was estimated to know a preliminary status of variation prevailing in these cold stream fish species significant for evolution and conservation of these valued species of our ichthyofauna. Average variation within genera was found to be 13.6% with intra-specific variation ranging from 0.0% (B. ngawa) to 0.6% (B. gatensis). These distance data are in the same order found by various researchers globally using COI barcode sequences in different fish species. Phylogenetic relatedness among Barilius species and some other cyprinids validate their status of individual species as established by conventional taxonomy.