Characterization study of Holoptelea integrifolia tree bark fibres reinforced epoxy composites

This study characterised the composite plate fabricated by epoxy matrix reinforced with alkaline-treated Holoptelea integrifolia tree bark fibre. Tensile and flexural test results clearly show that the mechanical characteristics of pure resin improve in direct proportion to the fibre up to 40%. However, impact test results show that 30% fibre mass ratio composite showed higher mechanical properties. The H. integrifolia fibre composites (HIFC) specimens were also characterised by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) and thermogravimetric analysis-differential scanning calorimetry (TGA-DSC) analysis. FESEM results show that the bonding between fibre and matrix was excellent. EDAX reveals the elemental proportion of HIFC. O-H, C- H, C-O-C, moisture content and aromatic structure are evident by FTIR spectroscopy. Thermal analysis reveals that the composites degrade rapidly when exposed above 210 °C.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1436-1477

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Argentina, Colletotrichum araujiae on leaves, stems and fruits of Araujia hortorum. Australia, Agaricus pateritonsus on soil, Curvularia fraserae on dying leaf of Bothriochloa insculpta, Curvularia millisiae from yellowing leaf tips of Cyperus aromaticus, Marasmius brunneolorobustus on well-rotted wood, Nigrospora cooperae from necrotic leaf of Heteropogon contortus, Penicillium tealii from the body of a dead spider, Pseudocercospora robertsiorum from leaf spots of Senna tora, Talaromyces atkinsoniae from gills of Marasmius crinis-equi and Zasmidium pearceae from leaf spots of Smilaxglyciphylla. Brazil, Preussia bezerrensis from air. Chile, Paraconiothyrium kelleni from the rhizosphere of Fragaria chiloensis subsp. chiloensis f. chiloensis. Finland, Inocybe udicola on soil in mixed forest with Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Picea abies and Alnus incana. France, Myrmecridium normannianum on dead culm of unidentified Poaceae. Germany, Vexillomyces fraxinicola from symptomless stem wood of Fraxinus excelsior. India, Diaporthe limoniae on infected fruit of Limonia acidissima, Didymella naikii on leaves of Cajanus cajan, and Fulvifomes mangroviensis on basal trunk of Aegiceras corniculatum. Indonesia, Penicillium ezekielii from Zea mays kernels. Namibia, Neocamarosporium calicoremae and Neocladosporium calicoremae on stems of Calicorema capitata, and Pleiochaeta adenolobi on symptomatic leaves of Adenolobus pechuelii. Netherlands, Chalara pteridii on stems of Pteridium aquilinum, Neomackenziella juncicola (incl. Neomackenziella gen. nov.) and Sporidesmiella junci from dead culms of Juncus effusus. Pakistan, Inocybe longistipitata on soil in a Quercus forest. Poland, Phytophthora viadrina from rhizosphere soil of Quercus robur, and Septoria krystynae on leaf spots of Viscum album. Portugal (Azores), Acrogenospora stellata on dead wood or bark. South Africa, Phyllactinia greyiae on leaves of Greyia sutherlandii and Punctelia anae on bark of Vachellia karroo. Spain, Anteaglonium lusitanicum on decaying wood of Prunus lusitanica subsp. lusitanica, Hawksworthiomyces riparius from fluvial sediments, Lophiostoma carabassense endophytic in roots of Limbarda crithmoides, and Tuber mohedanoi from calcareus soils. Spain (Canary Islands), Mycena laurisilvae on stumps and woody debris. Sweden, Elaphomyces geminus from soil under Quercus robur. Thailand, Lactifluus chiangraiensis on soil under Pinus merkusii, Lactifluus nakhonphanomensis and Xerocomus sisongkhramensis on soil under Dipterocarpus trees. Ukraine, Valsonectria robiniae on dead twigs of Robinia hispida. USA, Spiralomyces americanus (incl. Spiralomyces gen. nov.) from office air. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Tan YP, Bishop-Hurley SL, Shivas RG, et al. 2022. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1436-1477. Persoonia 49: 261-350. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2022.49.08.

AB0227 TREATMENT SEQUENCING PATTERNS AND COMPARATIVE EFFICACY IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS FROM A REAL-WORLD SETTING

Background

The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)1 recently provided updated guidelines regarding the initiation and modification of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Therefore, real-world evidence studies are warranted to provide insights into first-line DMARD utilization and durability of response in the second-line setting.

Objectives

To analyze RA treatment patterns in real-world data and compare durability of response between second-line DMARDs + anti-TNF (TNFi) therapies vs. TNFi monotherapy.

Methods

Electronic health records (EHRs) from a large health system in the Northeast US were used to identify RA patients. Lines of therapy were defined based on confirmed prescriptions for DMARDs and TNFi therapies. Time to next treatment (TTNT) was the primary outcome to estimate durability of response. Time-to-event analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier and log-rank test methods. In addition, a Cox Proportional-Hazards (CoxPH) model was used to evaluate covariates as independent predictors of disease progression.

Results

Our study cohort consisted of 8,040 patients who had at least one line of therapy for RA. Conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) were the predominant first line of therapy in this dataset (71.3%), followed by TNFi alone (11.1%) or TNFi combined with csDMARD (9.1%) (Figure 1).

For patients who had csDMARD as their first line of therapy, 22.93% progressed to second line treatment. Among them 36.2% patients were TNFi with or without in combination with csDMARDs. In the second-line, TNFi + csDMARDs were associated with a longer TTNT (median time: 13.1 months vs 6.1 months, P < 0.005) compared to TNFi monotherapy. The multiple variable CoxPH model (adjusted for age, gender, and race) demonstrated that second-line TNFi + csDMARDs had a lower hazard rate when compared to TNFi monotherapy (HR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.36 - 1.12, p < 0.005).

Conclusion

We demonstrated the first comprehensive treatment sequencing patterns in RA from a real-world setting. As a second-line therapy for patients with inadequate response to csDMARDS, the TNFi + csDMARDs combination may improve duration of response when compared to TNFi monotherapy. Results from this study will inform future sequencing strategies to improve patient outcomes.

References

[1]Smolen, Josef S., Robert B. M. Landewé, Johannes W. J. Bijlsma, Gerd R. Burmester, Maxime Dougados, Andreas Kerschbaumer, Iain B. McInnes, et al. 2020. “EULAR Recommendations for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Synthetic and Biological Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs: 2019 Update.” Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 79 (6): 685–99.

Disclosure of Interests

Lei Ai: None declared, Mitchell Higashi: None declared, Kyeryoung Lee: None declared, Zongzhi Liu: None declared, Lan Jin: None declared, Kalpana Raja: None declared, Yun Mai: None declared, Tomi Jun: None declared, William Oh Consultant of: Janssen

Pfizer, Aviva Beckmann: None declared, Emilio Schadt: None declared, Zachary Schadt: None declared, Rick Wallsten: None declared, Ediz Calay: None declared, Andrew Kasarskis: None declared, Qi Pan: None declared, Eric Schadt Speakers bureau: Eli Lilly, Consultant of: SAB of Eli Lilly

Celgene, Xiaoyan Wang: None declared

Water evaporation algorithm optimized cascade controller for frequency regulation of integrated microgrid

Integration of renewable energy sources into existing grid influence the stability of the power system. This article introduces the application of cascade controller in hybrid power system which enhance the frequency stability during power perturbations of the load and generation. For this study, a thermal power unit is considered with integration of a microgrid consist of regular diesel generator, renewable power generating units, energy storage and other power managing devices. Proportional-integral and proportional-integral-derivative (PI-PID) cascade controller is provided for this hybrid power system to reduce the frequency oscillations during system uncertainties. The optimal values of the PI-PID controller are achieved by using water evaporation optimization (WEO) algorithm with fast convergence rate. Investigations are carried out in different scenarios of the IM and results are compared with the PID controller to showcase the advantages of the cascade controller for frequency regulation. Simulations are carried out in MATLAB-SIMULINK ® software environment.

GC-MS Analysis, Molecular Docking and Pharmacokinetic Properties of Phytocompounds from Solanum torvum Unripe Fruits and Its Effect on Breast Cancer Target Protein

This study was designed to identify phytocompounds from the aqueous extract of Solanum torvum unripe fruits using GC–MS analysis against breast cancer. For this, the identified phytocompounds were subjected to perform molecular docking studies to find the effects on breast cancer target protein. Pharmacokinetic properties were also tested for the identified phytocompounds to evaluate the ADMET properties. Molecular docking studies were done using docking software PyRx, and pharmacokinetic properties of phytocompounds were evaluated using SwissADME. From the results, ten best compounds were identified from GC–MS analysis against breast cancer target protein. Of which, three compounds showed very good binding affinity with breast cancer target protein. They are ergost-25-ene-3,6-dione,5,12-dihydroxy-,(5.alpha.,12.beta.) (− 7.3 kcal/mol), aspidospermidin-17-ol,1-acetyl-16-methoxy (− 6.7 kcal/mol) and 2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-[[2-[1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinyl]ethyl amino]-6-[trichloromethyl]-s-triazine (− 6.7 kcal/mol). Further, docking study was performed for the synthetic drug doxorubicin to compare the efficiency of phytocompounds. The binding affinity of ergost-25-ene-3,6-dione,5,12-dihydroxy-,(5.alpha.,12.beta.) is higher than the synthetic drug doxorubicin (− 7.2 kcal/mol), and the binding affinity of other compounds is also very near to the drug. Hence, the present study concludes that the phytocompounds from the aqueous extract of Solanum torvum unripe fruits have the potential ability to treat breast cancer.

892 Emergency General Surgical Practice at a District General Hospital during COVID-19 Pandemic: Implementing Royal College of Surgeons Guidance

Introduction

COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on surgical practice across NHS. RCS released guidance on altering surgical practise during the pandemic to deliver safe surgical care in March, 2020. We present an audit conducted at a DGH comparing practice of emergency general surgery (EGS) with RCS guidance at the peak of COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

Consecutive patients undergoing EGS from 1^st April to 15^th May,2020. Data of demographics, ASA grade, comorbidities, type of surgery, hospital stay, informed COVID-19 pneumonia consent, complications and 30-day mortality were collected. Pre- and post-operative COVID-19 status was determined.

Results

Forty-four (n = 44) patients, mean age 47.5 and IQR (26-69). Male (55.8%) and females (44.2%). Preoperative COVID19 status was confirmed in around 79.1% patients. All (100%) patients who underwent CT imaging preoperatively had CT chest performed. Informed consent for COVID19 pneumonia was taken in 4.7% patients. 30-day mortality risk was 7% and complications risk was 4.7%. RR of 30-day mortality in preoperative COVID19 status positive patients was RR = 0.92 (CI 0.85-1.01) and for complications was RR = 0.95 (CI 0.88-1.02).

Conclusions

RCS guidance on managing and altering practice in EGS during COVID-19 pandemic is reliable, implementable, and measurable in a DGH setting. Simple improvements in consent process can achieve full compliance with RCS guidelines.

Molecular epidemiology of HBV among HIV infected individuals in Chennai, south India

Hepatitis B is a major co-infection among people with HIV (PWHIV) worldwide. There is a paucity of data on HBV genetic diversity in India, which would be useful for targeted preventive and management interventions. To characterize the distribution of HBV genotypes and sub-genotypes, samples of 180 HIV-HBV co-infected individuals from a study previously conducted to estimate the prevalence of HBV co-infection were analyzed. Nested PCR using type-specific primers was used to identify the various HBV genotypes. Partial HBV S sequences were generated for a subset of samples using Sanger sequencing. Mutation analysis was done using the online HBVseq program. PCR based genotyping documented D (69.4 %) and A (5.6 %) to be the major genotypes in the study population. Infection with multiple genotypes was observed in 25 % co-infected individuals. D2, D5, A2, and A1 were the sub-genotypes detected. Mutations 184K and 173L were identified. HBV genotypes/ sub-genotypes play a pivotal role in the clinical outcome of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Therefore, monitoring of CHB cases is needed to track disease progression, including early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Intestinal lymphangiectasia: a rare cause of intussusception in an adolescent

Intussusception in adolescents is usually idiopathic in nature. A 17-year-old woman with diffuse large B cell lymphoma presented with signs of intestinal obstruction after initiation of induction chemotherapy. On evaluation, the patient was diagnosed to have ileoileal intussusception with intestinal lymphangiectasia as the lead point. Intestinal lymphangiectasia as a rare cause for intussusception and its relationship with lymphoma is discussed in this case report.

Medicinal Plant Using Ground State Stabilization of Natural Antioxidant Curcumin by Keto-Enol Tautomerisation

Curcumin is a medicinal agent that exhibits anti-cancer properties and bioactive pigment in Turmeric has a huge therapeutic value. It has a keto-enol moiety that gives rise to many of its chemical properties. A recent study has shown that keto-enol tautomerisation at this moiety is implicated the effect of curcumin. The tautomerisation of curcumin in methanol, acetone and acetonitrile are used in nuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 13C) spectroscopy. It was characterized using UV, IR and Raman spectral values. The molecular electrostatic potential surface of the Curcumin has been visualized in electropositive potential in the region of the CH3+ group and most electronegative potential in the two oxygen atom has very strong binding group. In the following, the modality of structural and thermo dynamical parameters, electrophilicity (ω), chemical potential (μ), chemical hardness (η) and electronic charge transfer confirms the local reactivity. The rate constant of tautomerisation of curcumin shows strong temperature dependence. Molecular electrostatic potential and Temperature dependence of various thermodynamic properties like [Formula: see text] is increase with increase in temperature for monomer and dimer of various electrical fields.

Bio-Directed Synthesis of Calcium Oxide (CaO) Nanoparticles Extracted from Limestone Using Honey

Calcium oxide (CaO) nanoparticles have been synthesized by two step thermal decomposition method under ambient temperature. Structural analysis was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction method and the crystallite size of CaO nanoparticles was calculated using Scherrer formula. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis has been carried to identify the functional groups present in the synthesized specimen. Optical absorption studies reveal very low absorption in the entire visible region. The surface analysis of the synthesized particles was analysed using scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Ataxia in a Young Female

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a genetically inherited disorder characterized by the presence of multiple central nervous system tumours, most pathognomonic being bilateral vestibular schwannomas with or without peripheral manifestations in the form of cataract or cutaneous neurofibromas. NF2 is an uncommon disorder compared to NF1. We describe a classical case of neurofibromatosis type 2 with florid clinical manifestations and characteristic neuroimaging features. We also briefly describe the literature pertaining to this rare disorder. The case also emphasizes the fact that NF2 should be considered in the list of differentials for ataxia especially when it is associated with sensory neural hearing loss.

Oral neoplasms in pickhandle barracuda Sphyraena jello from India

We report the spontaneous occurrence of oral neoplasms in pickhandle barracuda Sphyraena jello Cuvier, 1829 from Parangipettai, on the southeast coast of India. A total of 11736 fish were examined, of which 43 were affected with oral tumours, with an overall prevalence of 0.37%. Gross and clinical symptoms included reddish to grayish-white distended tumourous growths on the gingiva, intra-oral bones and tongue. The tumours exhibited delayed eruption and intra- or extra-oral swelling, varied in consistency from extremely firm to fleshy and released mucinous material. The majority of tumours consisted of numerous clumped toothlets, but some included hardened tissues. Local area invasion/transmission was observed in most cases; however, necropsy examination revealed no gross evidence of distant metastasis into visceral organs. Radiographic examination of compound odontomas revealed distinct unilocular radio-opaque mini-toothlets surrounded by defined radiolucency, whereas complex odontomas exhibited unilocular and indistinct radio-opaque masses within a much more extensive radiolucent zone. Histopathologically, the intra-oral tumour lesions were characterized by numerous imperfect (germ) toothlets consisting of a disorganized combination of dental tissues: pulp tissues with manifested and predominantly mixed hard dental tissues of immature dentine and enamel, numerous small to large and round to polyhedral ossicles embedded in hypocellular fibrous stromal tissues and sparsely spaced bland spindloid cells with cleft-like spaces of loose mucoid stroma. Histochemically, the neoplastic lesions stained positive for periodic acid-Schiff and Masson's trichrome. Based on the clinical and histological findings, the tumours were diagnosed as compound odontomas, complex odontomas, odontogenic myxomas, lingual myxomas and psammomatoid ossifying fibromas.

Bopyrid isopods parasitizing on the cultured fresh water prawn, Macrobrachiummalcolmsonii in South India

The bopyrid isopods are common in wild Macrobrachium spp. but not common in aquaculture condition. This is the first study that reports the parasitizing of bopyrid isopods on the cultured M. malcolmsonii. Bopyrid isopod (Probopyrus buitendijki) was identified in the branchial cavities of the fresh water prawn, M. malcolmsonii from grow-out culture pond at Kuriyamangalam, India. Macrobrachium malcolmsonii is a new host for P. buitendijki. A total of 1323 M. malcolmsonii were checked for this study. The overall prevalence of the parasitic infestation was reached 46.2 %. The parasitic infection was higher in female (83 %) than in male (3.4 %). Highest prevalence of infestation was found in the median size group (7-8 cm) (58.7 %). Infected females were not berried unlike uninfected prawns. The parasites cause infertility and does not found any organ deformities due to the infestation. The parasite was inversely attached in the gill chamber with no lesion on the gill but the infected branchial chamber became bulged.

RMP exposure is lower in HIV-infected TB patients receiving intermittent than daily anti-tuberculosis treatment

We compared the pharmacokinetics of rifampicin (RMP) during daily and intermittent (thrice weekly) anti-tuberculosis treatment in human immunodeficiency virus infected tuberculosis patients. Patients treated with a thrice-weekly regimen had significantly lower plasma peak concentration, area under the time concentration curve from 0 to 24 h and higher oral clearance of RMP than those treated with the daily regimen. The median values were respectively 3.7 and 6.4 μg/ml (P < 0.001), 20.7 and 29.4 μg/ml.h (P = 0.03) and 21.7 and 15.3 ml/min (P = 0.03).

Proximate Composition of Bio Potential Seaweeds from Mandapam South East Coast of India

Proximate composition of the three green seaweeds viz., Chaetomorpha aerea, Enteromorpha intestinalis, Enteromorpha compressa one brown seaweed Dictyota dichotoma and one red seaweed Gracilaria corticata was investigated by determination of protein, carbohydrates, lipid, moisture and ash content. In the present study, the total protein was recarded upper most in E.intestinalis and bare minimum in E.compressa. The maximum carbohydrates recorded in C. aerea and minimum in G. corticata. The lipid content was acquired upper limit in E. compressa and least in C. aerea. The ash and moisture content in following of 5 different seaweeds are as follows: 7.45mg/g, 3.91mg/g were recorded in the C.aerea, 8.52mg/g, 3.42mg/g in the E.intestinalis, 8.58mg/g, 3.75mg/g in the E.compressa, 9.47mg/g, 4.23mg/g in the D.dichotoma and 6.95mg/g, 3.98mg/g in G.corticata. The proximate composition of 5 different seaweed species exhibited high nutritional value for human consumption.

Proximate Composition of Bio Potential Seaweeds from Mandapam South East Coast of India

Proximate composition of the three green seaweeds viz., Chaetomorpha aerea, Enteromorpha intestinalis, Enteromorpha compressa one brown seaweed Dictyota dichotoma and one red seaweed Gracilaria corticata was investigated by determination of protein, carbohydrates, lipid, moisture and ash content. In the present study, the total protein was recarded upper most in E.intestinalis and bare minimum in E.compressa. The maximum carbohydrates recorded in C. aerea and minimum in G. corticata. The lipid content was acquired upper limit in E. compressa and least in C. aerea. The ash and moisture content in following of 5 different seaweeds are as follows: 7.45mg/g, 3.91mg/g were recorded in the C.aerea, 8.52mg/g, 3.42mg/g in the E.intestinalis, 8.58mg/g, 3.75mg/g in the E.compressa, 9.47mg/g, 4.23mg/g in the D.dichotoma and 6.95mg/g, 3.98mg/g in G.corticata. The proximate composition of 5 different seaweed species exhibited high nutritional value for human consumption.

Synthesis of structural and optical characterization of surfactant capped ZnO nanocrystalline

The presence of surfactant (CTAB) at three different concentrations viz., (0.5, 1 and 1.5 M) on zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystalline at 550°C was synthesized. The optical properties of each surfactant capped zinc oxide nanocrystalline were investigated using UV-Visible absorption. The characterization of these nanocrystalline was performed by X-ray diffractometer Spectrum (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transformer infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The effect of CTAB on the morphology of the ZnO was studied by SEM/EDS which revealed that the diameter of the product is in the range of 42-70 nm. Out of the three surfactant concentrations CTAB (0.5 M) capped zinc oxide nanoparticle has smallest crystalline size of 19.4 nm. Thus, the presence of surfactant on the surface of zinc oxide plays a significant role in reducing defect. The excitonic UV emission has been observed at 275 nm.

Efficient microwave synthesis of novel aromatic esters catalyzed by zirconia and its modified forms: a kinetic study

A series of solid acids such as ZrO₂, 5%Mo(vi)/ZrO₂, 10%Mo(vi)/ZrO₂, 20%Mo(vi)/ZrO₂ and SO₄²⁻/ZrO₂ were prepared, characterised and used as catalysts in the synthesis of novel esters under microwave irradiation condition.

Structural, FTIR and photoluminescence studies of Fe doped ZnO nanopowder by co-precipitation method

An investigation on Fe-doped ZnO (Zn1-xFexO, x=0, 0.03, 0.06 and 0.09mM) nanopowder have been synthesized by co-precipitated method annealed at 550°C were reported. The structural, morphological and optical properties of the samples were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectra (EDS) analysis, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), UV-Visible spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) techniques, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The XRD spectrum shows all the samples are hexagonal wurtzite structure. The presence of functional groups and chemical bonding are confirmed by FT-IR. The PL spectra of the Zn1-xFexxO systems show that the shift in near band edge (NBE) UV emission from 344.54 to 364.21nm and a shift in green band (GB) emission from 484 to 540nm which conforms the substitution of Fe into the ZnO lattice. UV-Visible measurement showed a decrease in the energy gap with increasing Fe content, probably due to an increase in the lattice parameters. It is also found that these results are in good agreement with other calculated and experimental results.

Infestation of Lernaeenicus seeri (Copepoda: Pennellidae) and Hirudinella ventricosa (Digenea: Hirudinellidae) on wahoo Acanthocybium solandri collected from Parangipettai, southeast coast of India

A commercially important fish, wahoo Acanthocybium solandri (Cuvier, 1832) (Scombridae), was collected to study the infestation of parasites from Parangipettai landing center, Tamil Nadu, southeast coast of India for a period of one year from January to December 2011. A total of 644 fish were captured and screened for parasites. Off 644 fish, 270 were infested by a parasitic copepod Lernaeenicus seeri Kirtisinghe, 1934 (Siphonostomatoida: Pennellidae) on the body surface. It is a mesoparasite, since the head and neck are inserted and attached to the muscle by making a wound/hole on the body and the rest of the parasite body with the egg sacs hanging outside. Prevalence was recorded as 42.29% with mean and maximum intensity at 3.22 and 33, respectively. Seasonal study showed that the prevalence was highest (62.82 %) during postmonsoon. Simultaneously, some of the fish (n = 144) were internally observed for the presence of parasites and we found that 101 fish were infested with an endoparasite digenean Hirudinella ventricosa (Pallas, 1774) (Hirudinellidae) in the stomach. Prevalence was recorded as 70.9%, and mean intensity of 1.62 and maximum intensity of 3 were also noted. The overall percentage of both copepod and digenean infestation were recorded as 60.42%. The infestation was high in postmonsoon season for both parasites. This is the first record of L. seeri from Indian waters and the second record of occurrence worldwide. Significant interactions were observed between season and infestation of both parasites (P<0.05).

Occurrence of heavy copepod infestation on Hemiramphus lutkei and double parasitisms on Hemiramphus far with copepod (Lernaeenicus hemiramphi) and isopod (Mothocya plagulophora)

In the present study about, 66 copepod parasites of Lernaeenicus hemiramphi of two Hemiramphus sp., H. far (17 copepod) and H. lutkei (49 copepod), and an isopod (Mothocya plagulophora) on the gill chamber were observed. H. lutkei was added as a new host for L. hemiramphi. The copepod infestation was almost on the ventral side of the hosts.

Pharmacokinetics of rifabutin during atazanavir/ritonavir co-administration in HIV-infected TB patients in India

SETTING

Rifabutin (RBT) is reported to be as effective as and to have less inducing effect on cytochrome P450 enzymes than rifampicin against tuberculosis (TB). The optimal dose of RBT during ritonavir (RTV) co-administration remains a matter of debate.

OBJECTIVE

To study the pharmacokinetics of 150 mg RBT thrice weekly during concomitant atazanavir/RTV administration in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected TB patients.

METHODS

This observational study was conducted in 16 adult HIV-infected TB patients being treated for TB with an RBT-containing regimen and an antiretroviral therapy regimen with RTV; the dose of RBT was 150 mg thrice weekly. Serial blood draws were performed at pre-dosing and at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h after the drug was administered. Plasma RBT was estimated using high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Peak RBT concentration was below the lower therapeutic limit (<0.3 μg/ml) in seven patients, while 10 patients had trough concentrations below the minimal inhibitory concentration against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (0.06 μg/ml), suggesting that the RBT dosage may be inadequate. Prospective studies in different settings are required to arrive at the proper therapeutic dose for RBT to be used during co-administration with RTV.

Occurrence of isopod Nerocila phaiopleura infestation on Whitefin wolf-herring (Chirocentrus nudus) from Southeast coast of India

The present study reported the first observation of isopod parasite, Nerocila phaiopleura infestation on Chirocentrus nudus an economically important fish from Cuddalore coast, Southeast coast of India. The maximum prevalence of 6.3 % and mean intensity of 3.2 were observed during pre-monsoon 2010 and monsoon 2010 respectively. The highest intensity 7 was observed in the single host during monsoon. The site of attachment leads to wound and offer the secondary infection. Two pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus aureus and E. coli were isolated from the wound.

Changes in nutrients ratio along the central Bay of Bengal coast and its influence on chlorophyll distribution

Elemental ratio of nutrients and its influence on chlorophyll a distribution was studied along the central coast of Bay of Bengal using multivariate statistical methods. High chlorophyll concentration was observed during summer (1.81 μg l⁻¹) and premonsoon (1.95 μgl⁻¹), however, it was high in top 20 m during premonsoon season in tandem with high nitrate (N) and silicate (Si) concentration. N:P (phosphate) ratio was less than Redfield ratio (16:1) during all seasons, indicating the Bay of Bengal as nitrate limited and confirmed the results of Principal ComponentAnalysis (PCA) with positive loading and multiple regression analysis showing negative correlation between this ratio and chlorophyll concentration during all seasons. Whereas, N:Si ratio was < 1 and Si:P ratio > 7 in top 20 m during all seasons explained the deficiency of phosphorus and enrichment of silicate in the central Bay of Bengal. Regression analysis between Si:P and N:Si ratios with chlorophyll showed negative correlation during premonsoon and summer respectively. Thus, the present results confirmed that nutrient molar ratios such as N:P<16; Si:P>7 and N:Si<1 was indicative of a potential N and Si limitation and are the primary limiting nutrients in the central Bay of Bengal in determining chlorophyll concentration.

Occurrence of tumour (odontoma) in marine fish Sphyraena jello from the southeast coast of India

We examined the occurrence of odontoma in the marine fish Sphyraena jello sourced from 3 different landing centers (Cuddalore, Parangipettai and Nagapattinam) in Tamil Nadu (southeast India). A total of 19783 fishes were examined for odontoma presence, of which 2393 were affected with odontoma. The overall prevalence was 12.1% among the 3 stations. Fish landed at Parangipettai showed the highest peak prevalence of odontoma (16.8%) during the pre-monsoon, followed by Nagapatinam (9.1%) during summer 2011. The tumour lengths in premaxilla, supermaxilla and dentary bone were 1.1-3.6, 1.4-5.9 and 1.2-4.1 cm, respectively, and tumour widths were 0.3-1.9, 0.7-3.1 and 0.5-1.9 cm. Higher prevalence (0.206%) of tongue tumour along with odontoma was observed at Nagapattinam whereas it was lower (0.162%) at Cuddalore. Odontoma histopathology showed dense fibrous tissue with fine teeth roots. TEM analysis showed virus-like particles associated with odontoma. Radiography of the odontoma showed that the tumour masses were bony in nature and tissues were merged with upper and lower jaw.

Synthesis, structural and optical properties of ZnO and Ni-doped ZnO hexagonal nanorods by Co-precipitation method

Ni doped ZnO (Zn1-xNixO, x=0.0, 0.03, 0.06 and 0.09) nanorods have been synthesized by Co-precipitation method. Zinc acetate dehydrate [Zn(CH3COO)2⋅2H2O], nickel nitrate [Ni(NO3)3⋅6H2O], sodium hydroxide and poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) were mixed together. The morphology, optical and microstructure were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive spectrum (EDS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV-DRS spectrum, photoluminescence spectra (PL) and Fourier transformer infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The presence of functional groups and chemical bonding is confirmed by FTIR. PL spectra of the Zn1-xNixO systems shows that the shift in near band edge (NBE) UV emission from 321 to 322 nm and a shift in red band (RB) emission from 620 to 631 nm which conforms the substitution of Ni into the ZnO lattice. The investigation conformed that the products were of the wurtzite structure of ZnO. The hexagonal nanorods have edge length 31 nm and thickness of 39 nm. EDS result showed that the amount of Ni in the product is about 9%, these Ni doped hexagonal nanorods exhibits a blue shifts and weak (UV) emission peak, compared with pure ZnO, which may be induced by the Ni-doping different concentrations 0.0, 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 M. The growth mechanism of the doped hexagonal nanorods was also discussed.

Zero CD4 count: a case of discordant CD4 response in a patient with well suppressed viral load

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients continue to have raise in CD4 cell for several years after initiation of anti-retroviral therapy (ART). The discordant response of static or fall in CD4 cells in presence of well-suppressed viral load is an unusual finding. In this communication, we present a case report of an HIV patient in whom the repeated CD4 enumerations consistently showed zero/nil CD4 counts before and after the start of ART in spite of maximum viral suppression.

Efficient synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Prosopis juliflora leaf extract and its antimicrobial activity using sewage

In this paper, aqueous extract of fresh leaves of Prosopis juliflora was used for the synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles. UV-Vis spectroscopy studies were carried out to asses silver nanoparticles formation within 5 min, scanning electron microscopic was used to characterize shape of the Ag nanoparticles, X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the nanoparticles as crystalline silver and facecentered cubic type and Fourier transform infra-red assed that shows biomolecule compounds which are responsible for reduction and capping material of silver nanoparticles. The anti microbial activity of silver nanoparticle was performed using sewage. The approach of plant-mediated synthesis appears to be cost efficient, eco-friendly and easy methods.

Liver transplantation is possible in some patients with liver metastasis of colon cancer

Liver metastases from colorectal cancer are an absolute contraindication for liver transplantation. Aggressive therapy with liver resection and local chemotherapy in selected patients may be able to provide long-term cure. Given the risks of tumor recurrence, whether patients with post chemotherapy complications leading to liver failure should be offered transplantation is a challenging question in an era of limited organ availability. Herein we have presented 2 cases of liver transplantation performed in patients with colorectal cancer metastases treated with liver resection followed by hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy leading to development of sclerosing cholangitis and eventual liver failure. This report demonstrates that liver transplantation may be an option in selected patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases that have been well treated.

Manifestation of tuberculosis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus: a large Indian study

BACKGROUND:

Government Hospital of Thoracic Medicine, Tambaram Sanatorium, Chennai, is the largest HIV-care center in South East Asia. As many as 29,300 HIV patients visited this center at least once in the year 2005 for care and support.

OBJECTIVES:

Clinical manifestations and the modes of presentation of tuberculosis were assessed among 12,750 adult and adolescent patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attending the hospital for the first time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Database of Hospital Information System, specially evolved for managing patients afflicted with tuberculosis and HIV, was utilized. The particulars confined to patients with tuberculosis and HIV co-infection who visited the hospital for the first time from January to December 2005 were considered for the analysis. Proportion test and Chi-square test with Yates correction were done.

RESULTS:

As many as 12,750 adult and adolescent HIV-confirmed patients were screened for the possible presence of tuberculosis. Out of them, 4,383 (34.4%) patients had tuberculosis. Among them, 2,448 (55.9%) had pulmonary tuberculosis, and the remaining 1,935 (44.1%) had either disseminated or extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (P<0.001). Positive sputum-smear microscopy for acid fast bacilli was evident in 1,363 (31.1%) patients; however, it was significantly lower compared to positive smear rate of 44% in HIV patients (P< 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Tuberculosis was found to be the predominant co-infection among the symptomatic patients infected with HIV attending the largest care center for the first time in India. Advanced tuberculosis, disseminated tuberculosis and sputum smear negative pulmonary tuberculosis were the presenting clinical manifestations in 44% of the patients, as they had moderate to advanced immunosuppression. Early detection of tuberculosis co-infection is absolutely necessary.