Facile assembly of flexible quaternary SnO2/SrSnO3/Fe3O4/PVDF nanocomposites with tunable optical, electrical, and magnetic properties for promising magneto-optoelectronic applications

Facile assembly, co-precipitation, and drop casting procedures have been used to construct SnO₂/SrSnO₃/Fe₃O₄/PVDF flexible nanocomposites. SnO₂/SrSnO₃/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (TSF NCs') have been successfully incorporated into polyvinylidene fluoride polymers (PF), according to the microstructural exploration of the systems, which was revealed by XRD, EDX, and ATR-FTIR analysis. The FESEM and cross-section areas demonstrated that the addition of TSF NCs' to PF porous material enhanced its surface characteristics and decreased its surface roughness. The optical gap was lowered from 3.90 to 3.07 eV, and it was discovered that both the refractive index and optical conductivity had improved when TSF NCs' were incorporated into PF. According to the observations, the supplement ratios have a profound influence on the dielectric properties of the nanocomposites. Moreover, the electrical parameters of TSF/PF nanocomposite are significantly modified. The TSF/PF magnetic nanocomposite has good magnetic reactivity and can be easily extracted from the aqueous solution using an external magnetic field, as demonstrated by VSM. This research has been conducted to obtain TSF/PF nanocomposites to be used in promising magno-optoelectronic applications.

Synthesis, optical and dielectric properties of polyacryloyloxy imino fluorophenyl acetamide and polyacryloyloxy imino fluorophenyl acetamide-co-polystyrene sulfonate

Our scope is synthesis a new poly fluorobenzamide oxime ester and study its structural, optical, and dielectric properties. Consequently, ((E)-2-((acryloyloxy)imino)-N-(4-fluorophenyl) acetamide) (AIFPA) was as-synthesized via a condensation reaction of (E)-N-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(hydroxyimino) acetamide with acrylic acid to polymerize it via free radical polymerization (PAIFPA). over and above, the synthesized PAIFPA was inserted in more polymerization action with polystyrene sulfonate through the grafting process (PAIFPA-co-PSS). The chemical structures and morphology of AIFPA, PAIFPA, and PAIFPA-co-PSS were characterized by 1H NMR, FTIR, and XRD. The crystallinity index of PAIFPA, and PAIFPA-co-PSS was studied, affording that PAIFPA-co-PSS has the highest crystallinity. Moreover, The optical bandgap that obtained from absorbance analysis was encountered to be in the range of 2.6 eV to 3.5 eV. Ultimately, the dielectric properties of PAIFPA, and PAIFPA-co-PSS showed that electric conductivity values ranged from 6.12 × 10–8 to 7.11 × 10–7 S.cm−1, and 5.48 × 10–10 to 7.75 × 10–8 S.cm−1, respectively. It has a great deal of interest of PAIFPA-co-PSS which has wide band gap energy as short-wavelength light absorbers to be used in tandem polymer solar cells.

Honeycomb-like V2O5 Based Films: Synthesis, Structural, Thermal, and Optical Properties for Environmental Applications

In the present study, new composite films consisting of hierarchical nanobelt V2O5 and polymer mixture were prepared via a simple casting method. The incorporation of 30 wt.% of V2O5 into the polymer matrix yielded a honeycomb like structure with abundant micro-voids (5.5 μm), higher roughness average by 45.8%, and a higher root mean square roughness by 52%, which are beneficial for the enhancement of active surface area for dye adsorption. Furthermore, optical property studies have shown that the incorporation of V2O5 has made the nanocomposite film a suitable UV–visible light-sensitive material, and thus the application of films can be expanded towards photocatalytic degradation of various toxic pollutants such as nitrophenol, Cr(VI), antibiotects, and so on. Finally, the composite film exhibited enhanced thermostability in comparison to unmodified film, as confirmed by TGA and DSC analysis. The optimal film showed 96.3% removal efficiency and 27.02 mg/g adsorption capacity. The dye sorption performance of V2O5 based films is studied at various times, dosages, and initial dye concentrations. The experimental data more closely fit the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.997) than the Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm models, demonstrating a monolayer adsorption mechanism. The MB adsorption process on V2O5 film was controlled by the chemical adsorption step, which was evidenced by the good-fitting of kinetic adsorption results to the pseudo second order model (R2 = 0.991). The obtained results indicated that the V2O5 based films in this work are hopeful candidates for environmental applications.

Study of the spectroscopic, magnetic, and electrical behavior of PVDF/PEO blend incorporated with nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) nanoparticles

Pure nickel ferrite nanoparticles (NiFe2O4 NPs) were prepared by the solvothermal method. Different concentrations of NiFe2O4 were added to PVDF/PEO blend to prepare the PVDF/PEO-NiFe2O4 nanocomposite films. The films were characterized using different techniques in detail. Pure NiFe2O4 NPs images have a semispherical shape and roundness of the edges, with average particle size ~ 4.3–8.8 nm, and polycrystalline structure. Pure NiFe2O4 NPs show that micrometrical agglomeration suggests the presence of pore-free crystallites on the surface. The spectroscopic techniques such as XRD, FTIR, and UV–visible have confirmed the interaction between PVDF/PEO and NiFe2O4 NPs. Still, the nanocomposites exhibit a smooth surface with typical spherulitic clusters revealing the semi-crystalline structure of the PVDF/PEO-NiFe2O4 nanocomposites. The values of ε′ and ε″ were increased as an increase of NiFe2O4 due to the high value of dielectric permittivity of NiFe2O4. The appearance of semi-circles in the plot of M″ with Log confirms the single phase of the samples. The dielectric measurements show that M′ is inversely proportional to ε′. At higher temperatures, M′ levels off at frequencies higher than those at lower temperatures because the relaxation processes were spread over a range of frequencies. The values of saturation magnetization of PVDF/PEO-NiFe2O4 films were linearly increased as an increase of NiFe2O4 indicates improvement in the magnetic vector arrangement. Due to the enhancement of the magnetic properties, they can further exploit the films for magnetic applications.

Hazards of Radioactive Mineralization Associated with Pegmatites Used as Decorative and Building Material

The present study aimed to assess the radiological hazards associated with applying the investigated granite in the building materials and the infrastructures applications. The investigated granites are classified into four categories: El-Urf, barren, colourful and opaque. El Urf monzogranite intrudes metagabbro diorite complex with sharp contacts. Based on the activity concentrations, the environmental parameters such as absorbed dose rate (D_air), annual effective dose (AED), radium equivalent activity (Ra_eq), external (H_ex) and internal (H_in) hazard indices were measured. The mineralized pegmatite is located in the southwestern foothill of the Gabal El Urf younger granite. It displays well-defined zonation of three zones: outer, middle and inner zones represented by potash feldspar, quartz and mica, respectively. The isorad map showed that El Urf monzogranite is barren (Up to 100 cps) surrounding an excavation of the studied pegmatite that exhibits moderate colorful mineralization (phase-I = 500–1500 cps) and anomalous opaque mineralization (phase-II = 1500–3500 cps) pegmatites. The obtained results of radionuclides activity concentrations illustrated that the Opaque granites have the highest values of ²³⁸U (561 ± 127 Bq kg⁻¹), ²³²Th (4289 ± 891 Bq kg⁻¹) and ⁴⁰K (3002 ± 446 Bq kg⁻¹) in the granites, which are higher than the recommended worldwide average. Many of the radiological hazard parameters were lesser than the international limits in the younger granites and barren pegmatites. All of these parameters were higher in the colorful and opaque mineralized pegmatites. The high activity and the elevated radiological hazard parameters in the mineralized pegmatites are revised to the presence of radioactive and radioelements bearing minerals, such as thorite, meta-autunite, kasolite, phurcalite, columbite, fergusonite, Xenotime and fluorapatite. Other instances of mineralization were also recorded as cassiterite, atacamite, galena, pyrite and iron oxide minerals. Thus, the granites with high radioactivity concentration cannot be applied in the different applications of building materials and ornamental stones.

Survey on serum protein electrophoresis and recommendations for standardised reporting

INTRODUCTION

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) is a well-established laboratory technique. However, reporting of results varies considerably between laboratories. The variation in reporting can cause confusion to the clinician with a potential of adversely impacting patient care. The purpose of the survey was to find out the variation in reporting and to prepare recommendations to the Malaysian laboratories based on the survey to reduce both the variation in reporting between laboratories and the risk of misinterpretation of reports.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To determine the extent of variation in reporting of protein electrophoresis results questionnaires were distributed to the pathologists of various laboratories in Malaysia regarding the method, quantification of paraprotein concentrations and immunoglobulin assays, and information regarding current laboratory electrophoresis practices.

RESULTS

Variation was found in the following reporting practices: (a) screening protocol; (b) reporting of serum albumin; (c) numerical reporting of protein fractions and paraprotein; (d) co-migration of a paraprotein with a normal serum protein; (e) reporting of multiple paraprotein bands (f) appearance of small abnormal band and oligoclonal bands and (g) communication about of interferences.

CONCLUSION

The pathologists of the country made recommendations on the reporting of protein electrophoresis. Harmonised reporting will reduce inconsistency, variation in reporting, improve the quality of the report and most importantly improve patient care.

New and efficient NiO/chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposites as antibacterial and dye adsorptive films

The development of composite films with enhanced antibacterial and dye decolorization properties for water treatment has attracted a great attention. In this study, nickel oxide/chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposite films containing different weight percentage of NiO nanoparticles with a dual functionality, removal of toxic dye and antibacterial properties, were prepared. Methyl orange (MO) was selected as a target pollutant. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of the films against two Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and two Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium) was studied. The prepared samples were characterized by XRD, HRTEM, FESEM, ATR-FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and dielectric measurements. The morphological examination proved that the nanocomposite film has more porous structure compared to the unmodified chitosan/PVA. The antimicrobial tests indicated that the modified chitosan/PVA films have higher activity than pure chitosan/PVA toward all the tested pathogenic bacteria. The impact of the NiO amount (0.5, 1.5, 3, and 5 wt%), contact time (0-150 min), and adsorbent dose (40, 80, and 100 mg) on the removal of MO was studied. Dye adsorption results proved that the incorporation of 5 wt% NiO led to more than 2 fold increase in the dye removal percentage in comparison with the unmodified PVA/chitosan film.

Synthesis of promising nanocomposites from an antitumer and biologically active heterocyclic compound uploaded by clay and chitosan polymers

The innovative nanocomposites (NCs) of antibacterial and antitumor 2-amino-5-S-benzyl-1, 3, 4-thiadiazole (ABMT): binary (NC₁): ABMT-clay as well as the ternary (NC₂): ABMT-clay-chitosan have been prepared following the top-down approach method. The ABMT molecules have been efficiently uploaded on the inorganic polymer potassium montmorlinite clay polymer (MMT). The NC is homogenously dispersed in the aqueous solutions without crystallization of ABMT. However, the dispersity of the small particle size and the crystallinity of NC₁ is greatly enhanced in the presence of the biopolymer chitosan. The nanocomposites showed good non linear optical activity with suitable band gaps indicated the electron confinement in the NC. The loading and entrapment efficiency of ABMT onto MMT reached 89.3% in NC₁ during 6 h of contact time with the aqueous solution of pH 6.8. The enhanced redox characteristics of NC₁ relative to that of MMT suggested the better biological (antibacterial and antitumor) activity of NC₁. Chitosan enhanced the redox and the optical properties of NC₁ and its ability to undergo intercharge transfer to any acceptor sites. Hence, chitosan may added synergestic electron donation and, hence antitumor activity to the binary NC₁.

Molecular docking revealed the binding of nucleotide/side inhibitors to Zika viral polymerase solved structures

A new Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak started in 2015. According to the World Health Organization, 84 countries confirmed ZIKV infection. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) was an appealing target for drug designers during the last two decades. Through molecular docking, we screened 16 nucleotide/side inhibitors against ZIKV RdRp. While the mode of interaction with ZIKV is different from that in the hepatitis C virus (HCV), nucleotide/side inhibitors in this study (mostly anti-HCV) showed promising binding affinities (-6.2 to -9.7 kcal/mol calculated by AutoDock Vina) to ZIKV RdRp. Setrobuvir, YAK and, to a lesser extent, IDX-184 reveal promising results compared to other inhibitors in terms of binding ZIKV RdRp. These candidates would be powerful anti-ZIKV drugs.

Effect of clomiphene citrate on endometrial thickness, ovulation, pregnancy and live birth in anovulatory women: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the impact of clomiphene citrate (CC) vs other drug regimens on mid-cycle endometrial thickness (EMT), ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates in women with World Health Organization (WHO) group II ovulatory disorders.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, The Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials (CENTRAL) and the non-MEDLINE subset of PubMed from inception to December 2016 and cross-checked references of relevant articles. We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CC used alone vs other drug regimens for ovulation induction in women with WHO group II anovulation. Outcomes were mid-cycle EMT, ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates. We pooled weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for continuous variables (EMT) and risk ratios (RR) with 95% CI for binary variables (ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates).

RESULTS

We retrieved 1718 articles of which 33 RCTs (4349 women, 7210 ovulation induction cycles) were included. In 15 RCTs that compared CC with letrozole, EMT was lower in the CC group (1957 women, 3892 cycles; WMD, -1.39; 95% CI, -2.27 to -0.51; I²  = 100%), ovulation rates after CC and letrozole were comparable (1710 women, 3217 cycles; RR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.90-1.04; I²  = 47%), while CC led to a lower pregnancy rate (1957 women, 3892 cycles; RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.63-0.95; I²  = 43%) and a lower live birth rate (RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.49-0.98; I²  = 35%). In two RCTs that compared CC with CC plus metformin, EMT, ovulation and pregnancy rates were comparable (101 women, 140 cycles; WMD, -0.23; 95% CI, -0.92 to 0.45; I²  = 78%; RR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.67-1.06; I²  = 0%; and RR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.33-1.87; I²  = 0%). In three studies that compared CC with CC plus N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), EMT was lower in the CC group (340 women, 300 cycles; WMD, -1.51; 95% CI, -1.98 to -1.04; I²  = 45%). In two studies that compared CC with CC + nitric oxide (NO) donor, EMT was lower in the CC group (120 women, 304 cycles; WMD, -1.75; 95% CI, -2.08 to -1.41; I²  = 0%). Compared with CC plus NO donor or NAC, CC showed statistically significant lower ovulation and pregnancy rates. Compared with tamoxifen in three studies, CC showed a tendency towards lower EMT (571 women, 844 cycles; WMD, -1.34; 95% CI, -2.70 to 0.01; I²  = 96%) with comparable ovulation and pregnancy rates.

CONCLUSIONS

In women with WHO group II ovulatory disorders, ovulation induction with CC might result in lower EMT than other ovulation induction regimens. Whether the lower EMT caused the lower pregnancy and live birth rates remains to be elucidated. Letrozole seems to be beneficial for these women. However, our findings should be interpreted with caution as the quality of evidence was very low. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Rare presentation of idiopathic duodenoduodenal intussusception

Enteroenteric intussusception is a condition in which the full-thickness bowel wall becomes telescoped into the lumen of distal bowel. Intussusception in adult occurs infrequently and varies from childhood intussusception, particularly in its presentation, aetiology and treatment. Duodenoduodenal intussusception is rare because the duodenum is fixed in the retroperitoneal position. It usually occurs secondary to tumour, lipoma, Brunner's gland hamartomatous polyp or adenoma. The diagnosis in adults is usually made at laparotomy, where presentation is with intestinal obstruction. In non-emergency presentation, it may be difficult to arrive at an accurate diagnosis as symptoms may be vague, self-limiting intermittent abdominal pain. Clinical examinations and investigations may not be conclusive and another working diagnosis such as irritable bowel syndrome would be made. We describe a case where a patient initially presented with symptoms mimicking pancreatitis but his symptoms persisted over the course of 2 weeks. When a laparotomy was performed, duodenoduodenal intussusception was discovered and confirmed with histopathology. In this case, a discernible leading point could not be identified.

Characterization of hepatitis B virus surface antigen variability and impact on HBs antigen clearance under nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy

For hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related chronic infection under treatment by nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs), HBsAg clearance is the ultimate therapeutic goal but very infrequent. We investigated how HBV envelope protein variability could lead to differential HBsAg clearance on NUCs. For 12 HBV genotype D patients receiving NUCs, six resolvers (HBsAg clearance) were compared to six matched nonresolvers (HBsAg persistence). PreS/S amino acid (aa) sequences were analysed with bioinformatics to predict HBV envelope antigenicity and aa covariance. To enrich our analyses on very rare resolvers, these were compared with other HBV genotype D strains in three characterized clinical cohorts including common chronically infected patients. The sT125M+sP127T combination was observed in four nonresolvers of six, corroborated by aa covariance analysis, associated with a lower predicted antigenicity than sT125T+sP127P. Concordant features within this HBV key functional domain, at positions 125 and 127, were reported from two of the three comparative cohorts. In our hands, a lower ELISA reactivity of HBV-vaccinated mice sera was observed against the sT125M mutant. In the S gene, 56 aa changes in minor variants were detected in non-resolvers, mainly in the major hydrophilic region, vs 28 aa changes in resolvers. Molecular features in patients showing HBsAg persistence on NUCs argue in favour of a different aa pattern in the HBV S gene compared to those showing HBsAg clearance. In nonresolvers, a decrease in HBs 'a' determinant antigenicity and more frequent mutations in the S gene suggest a role for the HBV envelope characteristics in HBsAg persistence.

From QTL to variety-harnessing the benefits of QTLs for drought, flood and salt tolerance in mega rice varieties of India through a multi-institutional network

Rice is a staple cereal of India cultivated in about 43.5Mha area but with relatively low average productivity. Abiotic factors like drought, flood and salinity affect rice production adversely in more than 50% of this area. Breeding rice varieties with inbuilt tolerance to these stresses offers an economically viable and sustainable option to improve rice productivity. Availability of high quality reference genome sequence of rice, knowledge of exact position of genes/QTLs governing tolerance to abiotic stresses and availability of DNA markers linked to these traits has opened up opportunities for breeders to transfer the favorable alleles into widely grown rice varieties through marker-assisted backcross breeding (MABB). A large multi-institutional project, "From QTL to variety: marker-assisted breeding of abiotic stress tolerant rice varieties with major QTLs for drought, submergence and salt tolerance" was initiated in 2010 with funding support from Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, in collaboration with International Rice Research Institute, Philippines. The main focus of this project is to improve rice productivity in the fragile ecosystems of eastern, northeastern and southern part of the country, which bear the brunt of one or the other abiotic stresses frequently. Seven consistent QTLs for grain yield under drought, namely, qDTY1.1, qDTY2.1, qDTY2.2, qDTY3.1, qDTY3.2, qDTY9.1 and qDTY12.1 are being transferred into submergence tolerant versions of three high yielding mega rice varieties, Swarna-Sub1, Samba Mahsuri-Sub1 and IR 64-Sub1. To address the problem of complete submergence due to flash floods in the major river basins, the Sub1 gene is being transferred into ten highly popular locally adapted rice varieties namely, ADT 39, ADT 46, Bahadur, HUR 105, MTU 1075, Pooja, Pratikshya, Rajendra Mahsuri, Ranjit, and Sarjoo 52. Further, to address the problem of soil salinity, Saltol, a major QTL for salt tolerance is being transferred into seven popular locally adapted rice varieties, namely, ADT 45, CR 1009, Gayatri, MTU 1010, PR 114, Pusa 44 and Sarjoo 52. Genotypic background selection is being done after BC2F2 stage using an in-house designed 50K SNP chip on a set of twenty lines for each combination, identified with phenotypic similarity in the field to the recipient parent. Near-isogenic lines with more than 90% similarity to the recipient parent are now in advanced generation field trials. These climate smart varieties are expected to improve rice productivity in the adverse ecologies and contribute to the farmer's livelihood.

Mother to child transmission of hepatitis B virus: a cause for concern

Mother to child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important public health issue. India introduced HBV vaccine in 10 states as part of its Universal Immunization Program (UIP). Here we show evidence of mother-to-child transmission of HBV in three families from Jharkhand and Bihar states where HBV vaccination is not yet included in the UIP. This report illustrates the need for active screening of HBV in pregnant women and implementation of HBV vaccine across all states in India to reduce the burden of disease.

Microwave assisted decoration of titanium oxide nanotubes with CuFe2O4 quantum dots for solid phase extraction of uranium

Titanium oxide nanotubes decorated with CuFe₂O₄ quantum dots were prepared and characterized. The prepared nanotubes were used for solid phase extraction of U(vi) in real samples.

Antiviral efficacy of adefovir dipivoxil in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B subjects from Indian subcontinent

Adefovir is one of the therapeutic options for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. A total of 30 adefovir-experienced subjects with the median treatment duration of 12 (interquartile range (IQR) 6-18) months were studied. Virological response was measured by hepatitis B virus deoxyribonucleic acid (HBV DNA) levels. HBV reverse transcriptase (rt) domains were sequenced for the identification of resistance mutations. Among the 30 subjects, two (7%) showed virological response and 19 (63%) were non-responders. The virological response for the remaining nine (30%) subjects was not determined. On sequence analysis, two subjects were identified with rtI169L and rtA181V mutation after 9 months and 18 months of adefovir treatment, respectively. Though the frequencies of adefovir resistance mutations are low, a large majority of subjects showed non-response. Therefore, adefovir in the management of HBV should be used judiciously.

Production and properties of fibrinolytic enzyme fromStreptomyces sp. NRC 411

Of 16Streptomyces spp. investigated for the production of extracellular fibrinolytic enzyme, one species was chosen as the most promising producer. Using shaken cultures grown for 7 days, optimal conditions for enzyme production were pH 6.0, 5% (w/v) starch as carbon source, (NH4)2SO4 and soybean flour as nitrogen sources and KH2PO4 at 1.2 g/l. Maximal activity of the crude enzyme was at pH 6.0 and 45°C. Holding the enzyme at 37°C for 2 h decreased the activity by only 10%.

A comparative study on the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of bimatoprost/timolol and dorzolamide/timolol combinations in glaucoma patients

Aim:

This study was designed to compare the bimatoprost/timolol combination and dorzolamide/timolol combination in glaucoma for efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness in a local population of Trichy in the state of Tamilnadu.

Materials and Methods:

Eight-week, randomized, parallel group, open-label study was conducted on 48 patients of open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. After initial clinical assessment and baseline investigations, bimatoprost/timolol combination (Group A) was prescribed to 22 patients (2 patients lost after initial assessment) and dorzolamide/timolol combination (Group B) to 24 patients. The patients were reviewed after second and eighth weeks for cure rate and adverse drug reaction monitoring.

Results:

At the end of 8 weeks, the mean reduction in intraocular pressure from baseline was 13.04 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI): 10.67–14.70) with bimatoprost/timolol combination once daily (P < 0.01) and 9.46 mmHg (95% CI: 7.47–10.5) with dorzolamide/timolol combination twice daily. Both the treatments were safe. Cost-effective range of bimatoprost/timolol combination was lower than that of dorzolamide/timolol combination.

Conclusion:

The fixed combination of bimatoprost/timolol was slightly more effective than that of dorzolamide/timolol combination in reducing IOP, and both treatments were generally well tolerated. Bimatoprost/timolol combination was more cost-effective (cost-effective analysis) than dorzolamide/timolol combination.

Antiviral resistance mutations and genotype-associated amino acid substitutions in treatment-naïve hepatitis B virus-infected individuals from the Indian subcontinent

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Antiviral resistance is a major challenge to the treatment currently available for hepatitis B virus (HBV). In this study, mutations that may affect the antiviral efficacy in treatment-naïve HBV-infected individuals were analyzed.

METHODS

Ninety-seven treatment-naïve HBV-infected individuals were included in this study. HBV reverse transcriptase (rt) domains were sequenced and nucleotide differences were compared to GenBank wild-type sequences. Furthermore, HBV genotypes, subgenotypes and subtypes were determined by analyzing surface gene sequences.

RESULTS

An adefovir-related rtI233V mutation was identified in 4 subjects. The rtS213T lamivudine and entecavir refractory mutant was presented in 3 individuals. Altogether, drug-related, atypical and novel HBVrt amino acid substitutions were seen in 73 positions. The HBV genotypes A, C, D and G were depicted in 15, 21, 60 and 1 individuals, respectively. There were 17 HBVrt amino acid substitutions that are associated with certain genotypes of HBV. Mutations in HBVrt corresponded to established surface gene mutations in 9 patients.

CONCLUSION

This data shows that antiviral-resistant HBV strains do exist in treatment-naïve individuals in this region. Further studies are essential to characterize the role of HBVrt amino acid substitutions in response to anti-HBV therapy.

Association of mannose-binding lectin polymorphisms and HBV outcome in a South Indian population

Mannose binding lectin (MBL) is an important innate immune system pattern recognition molecule. The MBL gene polymorphisms are reported to play a crucial role in outcome of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. In this study, we ascertained the association of MBL genotypes with HBV outcome in a South Indian population. The MBL gene polymorphisms at codons 52, 54 and 57 of exon I, and promoter polymorphisms at -221 were typed by polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primer in spontaneously recovered and in chronic HBV group. The allele frequency of codon 52 'C' was significantly higher in chronic HBV group than in the recovered group (98.5% vs. 93.6%; P = 0.003) and codon 52 'T' was significantly higher in recovered group than in the chronic group (6.4% vs. 1.5%; P = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, after adjusting for age, sex and state of origin, codon 52 'CC' and 'CT' genotypes were significantly associated with chronicity and recovery respectively [odds ratio (OR), 0.25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.08-0.80, P = 0.02] in co-dominant analyzing models. This was re-affirmed in analysis performed exclusively on Tamil Nadu subjects (OR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.06-0.93, P = 0.039). The frequency of low/none haplotype (XY/O) was significantly higher in recovered group than in chronic group (15.6% vs 7.5%) and associated with spontaneous recovery (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.04-4.99, P = 0.035). Our results provide preliminary evidence that inheritance of codon 52 genotypes and XY/O haplotype associated with low MBL level substantially determine the outcome of HBV infection in a sympatrically isolated South Indian population.

A marker-assisted backcross approach for developing submergence-tolerant rice cultivars

Submergence stress regularly affects 15 million hectares or more of rainfed lowland rice areas in South and Southeast Asia. A major QTL on chromosome 9, Sub1, has provided the opportunity to apply marker assisted backcrossing (MAB) to develop submergence tolerant versions of rice cultivars that are widely grown in the region. In the present study, molecular markers that were tightly linked with Sub1, flanking Sub1, and unlinked to Sub1 were used to apply foreground, recombinant, and background selection, respectively, in backcrosses between a submergence-tolerant donor and the widely grown recurrent parent Swarna. By the BC(2)F(2) generation a submergence tolerant plant was identified that possessed Swarna type simple sequence repeat (SSR) alleles on all fragments analyzed except the tip segment of rice chromosome 9 that possessed the Sub1 locus. A BC(3)F(2) double recombinant plant was identified that was homozygous for all Swarna type alleles except for an approximately 2.3-3.4 Mb region surrounding the Sub1 locus. The results showed that the mega variety Swarna could be efficiently converted to a submergence tolerant variety in three backcross generations, involving a time of two to three years. Polymorphic markers for foreground and recombinant selection were identified for four other mega varieties to develop a wider range of submergence tolerant varieties to meet the needs of farmers in the flood-prone regions. This approach demonstrates the effective use of marker assisted selection for a major QTL in a molecular breeding program.

Estrogen and progesterone receptors and telomerase enzyme immunohistochemical detection in gestational trophoblastic tumors

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the immunohistochemical detection of telomerase enzyme and estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PGR) in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) and its clinical significance. Formalin-fixed paraffin blocks for 30 patients (24 with molar pregnancy, 3 with choriocarcinoma, and 3 with placental site trophoblastic tumor) as cases and six products of conception samples from patients with incomplete abortion as controls were included in the study. Immunohistochemical detection of the telomerase catalytic protein and ER and PGR was carried out using streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. All control tissues were negative for telomerase and ER expression, while five of six were PGR positive. Significant positive telomerase expression was detected in all gestational trophoblastic tumors (three of six partial moles, 12 of 18 complete moles, three of three choriocarcinomas, and two of three placental site trophoblastic tumors). Nine of 24 molar pregnancies were followed by GTN. Molar pregnancies followed by GTN were associated with higher serum beta-hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophic hormone), larger uterine size for gestational age, negative ER expression, negative PGR expression, and positive telomerase expression. All patients with molar pregnancy with negative telomerase expression (9 of 24) showed spontaneous regression after evacuation. Positive telomerase expression and its immunohistochemical detection are associated with the development of GTN. Negative telomerase expression is highly predictive of postmolar spontaneous regression. Patients with molar pregnancies with negative telomerase expression can be saved the long-term follow-up. ER and PGR expression do not show a significantly different pattern in molar tissues, while negative expression is associated with developing GTN. Cautions on the use of postmolar hormonal contraception may be unjustified.

Effect of Salinity on the physiological responses of selected lines/variety of wheat

The effect of different concentrations of salinity (NaCl up to 250 mM) was studied on the germination, dry matter production and some relevant metabolic parameters of two lines (Sakha 69 and Sakha 164) and one variety (Stork) of wheat (Triticum aestivumL.). During the germination and seedling stages the experimental lines tolerated lower and moderate doses of salinity, while the variety was significantly retarded at the lower and moderate levels and completely inhibited at higher doses of salinity. The water content remained more or less unchanged in the two lines under saline conditions, whereas in Stork increasing salinity resulted in a significant decrease in water content. A stimulation of the net photosynthetic rate in both lines, Sakha 69 and Sakha 164, was observed at moderate salinity, but the highest levels proved to be inhibitory. In the Stork variety all salinization levels inhibited photosynthetic activity. The respiration rate in the two tested lines was influenced from salinity levels of 150 mM upwards and increased progressively with the salinity level. In Stork plants increasing salinity levels increased the respiration rate. The soluble sugar and soluble protein contents of the lines increased with increasing salinity. The opposite pattern was revealed in the case of Stork. The amino acid content, including proline, increased significantly with an increase in salinity in all tested plants. the potassium/sodium ratio decreased significantly with a rise in salinization.

Spontaneous rectus sheath haematoma in pregnancy

Bleeding into the rectus sheath is an uncommon but a well-recognised condition that mimics several other diagnoses of acute abdomen. A wide range of etiology has been proposed in association with this condition. It is often self-limiting, but can lead to unnecessary laparotomy if the diagnosis is not recognised.

An improved genetic linkage map for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) combining AFLP, RFLP, RAPD, biochemical markers, and biological resistance traits

An improved genetic linkage map has been constructed for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) based on the segregation of various molecular markers and biological resistance traits in a population of 94 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross between 'IT84S-2049' and '524B'. A set of 242 molecular markers, mostly amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), linked to 17 biological resistance traits, resistance genes, and resistance gene analogs (RGAs) were scored for segregation within the parental and recombinant inbred lines. These data were used in conjunction with the 181 random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), AFLP, and biochemical markers previously mapped to construct an integrated linkage map for cowpea. The new genetic map of cowpea consists of 11 linkage groups (LGs) spanning a total of 2670 cM, with an average distance of 6.43 cM between markers. Astonishingly, a large, contiguous portion of LG1 that had been undetected in previous mapping work was discovered. This region, spanning about 580 cM, is composed entirely of AFLP markers (54 in total). In addition to the construction of a new map, molecular markers associated with various biological resistance and (or) tolerance traits, resistance genes, and RGAs were also placed on the map, including markers for resistance to Striga gesnerioides races 1 and 3, CPMV, CPSMV, B1CMV, SBMV, Fusarium wilt, and root-knot nematodes. These markers will be useful for the development of tools for marker-assisted selection in cowpea breeding, as well as for subsequent map-based cloning of the various resistance genes.

Production and properties of beta-mannanase by free and immobilized cells of Aspergillus oryzae NRRL 3488

Seven fungi were tested for production of mannanases. The highest mannanase activities were produced by Aspergillus oryzae NRRL 3488 after 7 days in static cultures. Mannanases were induced by gum locust bean (1.0%). The highest mannanase activity was produced when a mixture of peptone, urea and ammonium sulphate was used as nitrogen source. Zn2+ or Co2+ favoured enzyme production. The immobilized cells on Ca-alginate and agar were able to produce beta-mannanase for four runs with a slight decrease in the activity. The optimum temperature for enzyme reaction was 50-55 degrees C at pH 6.0. In the absence of substrate the enzyme was thermostable retaining 75% activity for 1 h at 50 degrees C, and 68% activity for 1 h at 60 degrees C.

Ultrasound biomicroscopy of haptic position after transscleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses

PURPOSE

To determine the haptic position of ab externo transsclerally fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC IOLs) by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).

SETTING

Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.

METHODS

Ultrasound biomicroscopy was used to determine the haptic position in relation to the ciliary sulcus, iris, and ciliary body in 20 patients with transsclerally fixated PC IOLs. The patients ranged in age from 10 to 65 years.

RESULTS

All IOL haptics were easily visualized and imaged by UBM. Of the 40 IOL haptics, 22 (55.0%) were located in the sulcus, 11 (27.5%) anterior to the sulcus, and 7 (17.5%) posterior to the sulcus region.

CONCLUSIONS

Ab externo scleral fixation of PC IOLs is a blind procedure in most cases. Ultrasound biomicroscopy showed the difficulty in reliably placing the haptics in the ciliary sulcus using this technique. Thus, endoscopic visualization of the iridociliary angle during surgery is recommended.

Radionuclides in hot mineral spring waters in Jordan

Hot mineral springs in Jordan are very attractive to people who seek physical healing but they are unaware of natural radioactive elements that may be contained in the hot mineral water. The activities of the natural radioactive isotopes were measured and the concentrations of the parents of their natural radioactive series were calculated. The measured radionuclides were 234Th, 226Ra, 214Pb, 214Bi, 228Ac, 228Th, 212Pb, 212Bi and 208Tl. In addition the activities of 235U and 40K were measured. The activities ranged from 0.14 to 34.8 Bq/l, while the concentrations of parent uranium and thorium isotopes ranged from 3.0 x 10(-3) to 0.59 mg/l. The results were compared with those for drinking water.

INTERACTIVE EFFECTS OF SALINITY AND VITAMIN B6 ON SOME METABOLIC PROCESSES IN TWO BROAD BEAN LINES

Salinity adversely affected the photosynthetic pigment biosynthesis and carbohydrate fractions in two broad bean lines, 67 and 13. The accumulation of proline and other amino acids was also altered. The interactive effects of salinity and exogenous treatments with vitamin pyridoxine (B6) on these parameters were also tested. These treatments included soaking the seeds or spraying the shoots with vitamin solution. The vitamin treatments generally counteracted the adverse effects of salinity. The importance of these treatments to the salinity tolerance of broad bean lines is discussed.

Allelic variation of a dehydrin gene cosegregates with chilling tolerance during seedling emergence

Dehydrins (DHNs, LEA D-11) are plant proteins present during environmental stresses associated with dehydration or low temperatures and during seed maturation. Functions of DHNs have not yet been defined. Earlier, we hypothesized that a approximately 35-kDa DHN and membrane properties that reduce electrolyte leakage from seeds confer chilling tolerance during seedling emergence of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) in an additive and independent manner. Evidence for this hypothesis was not rigorous because it was based on correlations of presence/absence of the DHN and slow electrolyte leakage with chilling tolerance in closely related cowpea lines that have some other genetic differences. Here, we provide more compelling genetic evidence for involvement of the DHN in chilling tolerance of cowpea. We developed near-isogenic lines by backcrossing. We isolated and determined the sequence of a cDNA corresponding to the approximately 35-kDa DHN and used gene-specific oligonucleotides derived from it to test the genetic linkage between the DHN presence/absence trait and the DHN structural gene. We tested for association between the DHN presence/absence trait and both low-temperature seed emergence and electrolyte leakage. We show that allelic differences in the Dhn structural gene map to the same position as the DHN protein presence/absence trait and that the presence of the approximately 35-kDa DHN is indeed associated with chilling tolerance during seedling emergence, independent of electrolyte leakage effects. Two types of allelic variation in the Dhn gene were identified in the protein-coding region, deletion of one Phi-segment from the DHN-negative lines and two single amino acid substitutions.

Purification and partial characterization of a dehydrin involved in chilling tolerance during seedling emergence of cowpea

Dehydrins are a family of proteins (LEA [late-embryogenesis abundant] D11) commonly induced by environmental stresses associated with low temperature or dehydration and during seed maturation drying. Our previous genetic studies suggested an association of an approximately 35-kD protein (by immunological evidence a dehydrin) with chilling tolerance during emergence of seedlings of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) line 1393-2-11. In the present study we found that the accumulation of this protein in developing cowpea seeds is coordinated with the start of the dehydration phase of embryo development. We purified this protein from dry seeds of cowpea line 1393-2-11 by using the characteristic high-temperature solubility of dehydrins as an initial enrichment step, which was followed by three chromatography steps involving cation exchange, hydrophobic interaction, and anion exchange. Various characteristics of this protein confirmed that indeed it is a dehydrin, including total amino acid composition, partial amino acid sequencing, and the adoption of alpha-helical structure in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. The propensity of dehydrins to adopt alpha-helical structure in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate, together with the apparent polypeptide adhesion property of this cowpea dehydrin, suggests a role in stabilizing other proteins or membranes. Taken together, the genetic, physiological, and physicochemical data are at this stage consistent with a cause-and-effect relationship between the presence in mature seeds of the approximately 35-kD dehydrin, which is the product of a single member of a multigene family, and an increment of chilling tolerance during emergence of cowpea seedlings.

Prognosis in Perthes’ disease

We compared the prognostic value of the Catterall grouping, the Salter-Thompson grading, the arthrographic shape of the femoral head, and the Herring lateral pillar grouping during the fragmentation stage of Perthes’ disease in 73 patients with 81 affected hips. Radiographs were available for study from the onset of the disease until skeletal maturity. We used the Stulberg classification to assess outcome.

The Herring grade and arthrographic sphericity proved to be the best predictors of final outcome. Combining these two values further increased the predictive value. All but one patient in Herring group A achieved an excellent outcome. In Herring group B, the age of the child and the sphericity of the femoral head influenced the end result. If the child was less than seven years old at the onset of symptoms the prognosis was invariably good and all spherical hips in group B had a good outcome with Stulberg grades 1 or 2. Moderately and severely deformed hips on arthrography resulted in Stulberg 3 and 4 hips. None of the hips in Herring group C had a normal appearance at maturity and the outcome was not significantly influenced by the age at onset or the arthrographic appearance.

Prognosis in Perthes' disease: a comparison of radiological predictors

We compared the prognostic value of the Catterall grouping, the Salter-Thompson grading, the arthrographic shape of the femoral head, and the Herring lateral pillar grouping during the fragmentation stage of Perthes' disease in 73 patients with 81 affected hips. Radiographs were available for study from the onset of the disease until skeletal maturity. We used the Stulberg classification to assess outcome. The Herring grade and arthrographic sphericity proved to be the best predictors of final outcome. Combining these two values further increased the predictive value. All but one patient in Herring group A achieved an excellent outcome. In Herring group B, the age of the child and the sphericity of the femoral head influenced the end result. If the child was less than seven years old at the onset of symptoms the prognosis was invariably good and all spherical hips in group B had a good outcome with Stulberg grades 1 or 2. Moderately and severely deformed hips on arthrography resulted in Stulberg 3 and 4 hips. None of the hips in Herring group C had a normal appearance at maturity and the outcome was not significantly influenced by the age at onset or the arthrographic appearance.

Glomerulonephritis in Kelantan, Malaysia: a review of the histological pattern

Renal biopsy is essential in the management of renal parenchymal diseases. Thus far there is no publish report on the pattern of glomerulonephritis in Kelantan. We decided to establish the pattern of glomerulonephritis in Kelantan and use this information as our reference in future studies. Records of patients who had proven glomerulonephritis histologically were analysed. Their biological data, clinical presentation, etiology and clinicopathological pattern were studied. Where appropriate mean and standard deviation were calculated. A total of 74 biopsies were performed during the study period (between January 1991 and December 1993), out of which 72 biopsies (97.3%) were considered suitable for analysis. The male to female ratio was 1:1.1. Mean age at presentation was 27.6 +/- 12.2 years. Nephrotic syndrome was the commonest clinical presentation (65.3%). The main underlying cause was systemic lupus erythematosus (50%) followed by primary glomerulonephritis. Histologically, IgA nephropathy and minimal change disease were the main patterns among patients with primary glomerulonephritis while diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis was the commonest pattern among patients with lupus nephritis. Hence the pattern of glomerulonephritis is similar to other reported series. The procedure is considered safe and has a high success rate.

Production and some properties of fibrinolytic enzymes from Fusarium oxysporum N.R.C.1

A mixture of yeast extract and peptone in the culture medium was the most favourable for the production of active fibrinolytic enzyme by Fusarium oxysporum N.R.C.1. Potassium dihydrogen phosphate had stimulating effect, while glucose, sucrose, lactose, ribose and soluble starch had adverse effect on enzyme productivity. The optimum of the fibrinolytic enzyme activity was at pH 7.0.

Trends in pediatric casualties in a regional hospital of Kuwait

The purpose of this study was to statistically analyze the emergency care services of the Paediatric Department of Farwania Hospital, Kuwait. The study was conducted from 1 July 1987 until 30 June 1988, during which a total of 77,497 cases were recorded (41,594 [53.7%] males; 35,903 [46.3%] females). Kuwaiti children represented 40,738 (52.5%) of the total. Children aged 2 to 5 years constituted 22,805 (29.4%) of the cases, and the age group 1 month to 1 year comprised the second largest group (15,475; 19.9%). Admissions peaked in February (8,425 [10.8%]) and Friday was the busiest day (13,561 [17.5%]). There were 61,242 (79.02%) self-referrals. Respiratory diseases were the most common reason for emergency room visits, and totaled 51,583 (66.5%), followed by gastroenteritis with 19,898 (25.7%). This study points up an alarming increase in the number of visits to the casualty clinics of Farwania Hospital. If this increase continues, this will not only markedly increase the burden to staff but will also adversely affect the quality of services.

Measles in Equatoria region--south Sudan

A retrospective analysis of 208 cases of measles admitted to Sabbah Children's Hospital, Juba is presented. Seventeen per cent of the children were less than 10 months of age. The overall case fatality rate was 23%. The death rate was lowest in the first 9 months of life and increased with age, as did the incidence of malnutrition. It is recommended that measles vaccination should commence at 6 months of age in the Juba area, and that intensive health education about the dangers and management of measles be instituted.

Abortion rate and mortality among exotic pregnant heifers imported to the Gezira in the central region of the Sudan

Despite the intensive management and husbandry precautions, exotic pregnant heifers imported to the Gezira, Sudan, suffered excessive stress. Four of five heifers aborted due to stress. Death was due to pasteurellosis, babesiosis and heart water.