Nanocurcumin Restores Arsenic-Induced Disturbances in Neuropharmacological Activities in Wistar Rats

The present study was carried out to examine the ameliorative potential of nanocurcumin against arsenic induced (sub-chronic) alterations in central nervous system in male Wistar rats. Nanocurcumin was synthesised and the hydrodynamic diameter, zeta potential and particle size were~76.60 nm, (-) 30 mV and 95nm, respectively. Experimental rats sub-chronically exposed to sodium (meta) arsenite (As; 10 mg.kg-1; 70 days; p.o) induced significant (p<0.05) reduction in superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione and favoured free radical generation and induced lipid peroxidation in brain tissue. The exposure resulted in significant (p<0.05) decrease in voluntary- and involuntary motor activities and enhanced anxiety levels. However, experimental rats receiving nanocurcumin (15 mg.kg-1; p.o) showed significant (p<0.05) recovery in enzymatic - and non-enzymatic antioxidant defence system and restoration of redox balance and overcome arsenic induced depression in motor activities and elevated anxiety levels. Further, Arsenic induced elevation in pro-inflammatory cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2 activity and prostaglandin-E2 in brain and angiotensin-II levels (plasma) was significantly (p<0.05) ameliorated by nanocurcumin. Additionally, quantitative real -time polymerase chain reaction revealed a fivefold decrease in Nox2 expression in brain following nanocurcumin administration. Thus, the study concludes that nanocurcumin can serve as a potential therapeutic candidate to counter arsenic induced redox imbalance and neuropharmacological disturbances and there exists a vast scope to exploit its utility after appropriate clinical modelling.

Fabrications of hybrid Polyurethane-Pd doped ZrO2 smart carriers for self-healing high corrosion protective coatings

The work demonstrates the effective utilization of hybrid Polyurethane - palladium doped zirconium oxide (Pd-ZrO₂) as innovative carriers for corrosion protection coatings on steel materials. ZrO₂ and Pd-ZrO₂ nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using Photodeposition followed by the hydrothermal synthesis method. The synthesized nanoparticles were then incorporated into the polyurethane matrix and characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FTIR and SEM confirm the presence of ZrO₂ and Pd-ZrO₂ nanoparticles and their morphologies in polyurethane composites material. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results indicated that the polyurethane matrix remained stable up to 250 °C. At 800 °C, >50% of residues are observed for Pd-ZrO₂ - polyurethane in the TGA analysis, which confirms that the primer and nanoparticles addition enhances the thermal stability of the composite. The water contact angle measurement explains the hydrophobic behavior of nanocomposite modified coatings on a mild steel substrate. It indicates that Pd-ZrO₂ and primer significantly increase the hydrophobicity of polyurethane. The major advantages of developing water-repellent or hydrophobic surfaces open up a world of possibilities for metals and alloys in terms of corrosion prevention. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and a salt spray test were used to determine the anti-corrosion behavior of the prepared polymer nanocomposites. The polymer nanocomposite coatings have better anti-corrosive capabilities when compared to pure polyurethane. The corrosion protection efficiency increased from 76.63% to 97.57% upon incorporating 2 wt % of Pd-ZrO₂ in the polyurethane matrix. The results confirmed that the modifications on the polyurethane enhanced the hydrophobicity and anti-corrosion properties of the polymer nanocomposite coatings.

Anti-dengue Potential of Mangiferin: Intricate Network of Dengue to Human Genes

Dengue fever has become one of the deadliest infectious diseases and requires the development of effective antiviral therapies. It is caused by members of the Flaviviridae family, which also cause various infections in humans, including dengue fever, tick-borne encephalitis, West Nile fever, and yellow fever. In addition, since 2019, dengue-endemic regions have been grappling with the public health and socio-economic impact of the ongoing coronavirus disease 19. Co-infections of coronavirus and dengue fever cause serious health complications for people who also have difficulty managing them. To identify the potentials of mangiferin, a molecular docking with various dengue virus proteins was performed. In addition, to understand the gene interactions between human and dengue genes, Cytoscape was used in this research. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes software was used to find the paths of Flaviviridae. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and the Reactome Pathway Library were used to understand the biochemical processes involved. The present results show that mangiferin shows efficient docking scores and that it has good binding affinities with all docked proteins. The exact biological functions of type I interferon, such as interferon-α and interferon-β, were also shown in detail through the enrichment analysis of the signaling pathway. According to the docking results, it was concluded that mangiferin could be an effective drug against the complications of dengue virus 1, dengue virus 3, and non-structural protein 5. In addition, computational biological studies lead to the discovery of a new antiviral bioactive molecule and also to a deeper understanding of viral replication in the human body. Ultimately, the current research will be an important resource for those looking to use mangiferin as an anti-dengue drug.

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) as a Public Health Crisis: A Discussion of Intersectionality and Its Role in Better Health Outcomes for Immigrant Women in the United States (US)

Much of current work in providing care for intimate partner violence (IPV) in the United States (US) is centered around screening female patients. There is minimal work to tailor screening of IPV to marginalized patient populations such as immigrant women.

This discussion explores the need for non-stigmatizing, intersectional perspective in medicine, especially in working with diverse immigrant populations and in facing the public health crisis of IPV. We explore the needs in our healthcare education and practice for intersectionality.

By understanding the need for intersectionality, current best practices in IPV screening, and operationalizing of such perspectives and practices, we draw attention to healthcare needs for immigrant women and aim to increase understanding of IPV in medical education.

Effect of Telmisartan on Arsenic-Induced (Sub-chronic) Perturbations in Redox Homeostasis, Pro-inflammatory Cascade and Aortic Dysfunction in Wistar Rats

An experimental study was conducted in male Wistar rats to explore the antioxidant potential of telmisartan (an AT₁ receptor blocker) to overcome arsenic ('As')-induced perturbations in redox homeostasis pro-inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandin-E₂ levels and aortic dysfunction in Wistar rats. Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of six each. Group-I served as untreated control, while group-II received sodium (meta) arsenite (NaAsO₂) (10 mg/kg b.wt. p.o) for a period of 60 days. Experimental rats in group-III received treatment similar to group-II, but in addition received telmisartan (with 1% aqueous solution of Tween 80) @ 10 mg/kg b.wt. (p.o) for a similar duration, while rats in group-IV received telmisartan alone. Arsenic exposure resulted in significant (p < 0.05) elevation in the levels of superoxide anion ([Formula: see text]) radicals (control: 768.20 ± 126.77 vs group-II: 1232.75 ± 97.85 pmol of NBT reduced/min/mg protein). Telmisartan administration showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in [Formula: see text] generation (815.34 ± 43.41 pmol of NBT reduced/min/mg protein). Sub-chronic exposure to 'As' significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx and GR activity and GSH levels in the aorta, thus induced lipid peroxidation (LPO) measured as measured in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) called as malondialdehyde (MDA). However, the administration of telmisartan effectively countered the LPO (24.03 ± 1.18 nmol of MDA/g) on account of restoring the levels of aforesaid antioxidant defense system. Telmisartan administration effectively attenuated the 'As'-induced surge in pro-inflammatory cytokines (viz., IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) levels, as well as countered the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX₂) as indicated by a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in PGE₂ level in the aorta. In addition to it, there was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in plasma angiotensin II (Ang-II) levels in experimental rats receiving telmisartan. Quantitative RT-PCR studies revealed that sub-chronic exposure to 'As' upregulated the Nox₂ mRNA expression, but there was a 1.2-fold reduction in expression level upon co-administration of telmisartan. Histopathological examination revealed marked recovery from 'As'-induced disruption of tunica adventitia and loss of connective tissue in experimental rats receiving telmisartan. The study concludes that telmisartan can overcome aortic dysfunction induced by sub-chronic exposure to arsenic through drinking water in experimental rats through restoration of redox balance, attenuation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators and downregulation of Nox₂ mRNA expression.

Comparative evaluation of bond strength of resin cements with and without 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (mdp) to zirconia and effect of thermocycling on bond strength – An in vitro study

Background

To compare bond strength of resin cements with and without 10-Methacryloyloxydecyl Dihydrogen Phosphate (MDP) to zirconia and evaluate effect of thermocycling on bond strength.

Material and Methods

Standardised test specimens were fabricated as per ADA specification 131. Each Zirconia specimen was mounted in autopolymerzing acrylic resin material. The specimens were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 – specimens bonded with resin cement containing 10-MDP and Group II - specimens bonded with resin cement without 10-MDP. Forty samples of resin cement cylinders were prepared with dimensions of 6mm height and 4mm diameter in line with ADA specification 27 were cured onto the zirconia surface of 10mm x10mm x5mm using customised moulds. Specimens from each cement group were further divided into 2 subgroups: Subgroup A – Specimens that were not thermocycled and Subgroup B – Specimens that were thermocycled. Specimens were then subjected to tensile bond testing by using a Universal testing machine, the data were analysed using independent sample t test for bond strength and paired t test for effect of thermocycling. Statistical analysis used: Data was subjected to normalcy test (Shapiro-wilk test). Data showed normal distribution. Hence parametric test paired t test were applied.

Results

Paired t test revealed that the thermocycling affected the bond strength to zirconia. The highest bond strength was achieved for the resin cement with 10-MDP before thermocycling, whereas the lowest bond strength values were recorded for resin cement without 10-MDP after thermocycling.

Conclusions

Resin cement with 10-MDP showed superior bond strength to Zirconia than resin cement without 10-MDP. Adhesive failure was predominant at Zirconia and resin cement interface. Thermocycling had a significant effect on the bond strength of resin cements to zirconia, showing decreased bond strength.

Key words:10-MDP, Tensile Strength, Zirconia.

Understanding Patient Perceptions Towards Direct Primary Care: A Focus Group Study

Direct primary care (DPC) is a growing model of care that is suggested as an alternative to traditional fee-for-service healthcare. Patient-reported experiences of DPC can provide unique insight into the impact of joining the model and inform quality improvement. The purpose of this study was to investigate patient perceptions of DPC. Thirty-one participants were initially recruited for the study and completed a survey assessing patient demographics. Of the 31 participants, 10 went on to complete the focus group interviews. Qualitative analysis of focus group transcripts identified common themes and subthemes. Focus group findings were stratified into 4 themes including quality of care, access to care, affordability, physician qualities, and reasons for choosing DPC. The top positive subthemes were good communication, joining DPC due to poor past healthcare experiences, and physician personability. The most common negative subthemes were difficulty referring to specialists outside the practice, poor communication, and poor access to medications. All findings were presented and discussed with the investigated clinic to facilitate improvements in healthcare delivery.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Bauhinia racemosa Lam.: a comprehensive review

Background

Bauhinia racemosa is not familiarly known in Asian countries due to its limited existence and lack of medicinal information. It is commonly used as a medicine, ornamental plant, fence plant, and fodder for livestock since ancient times. It is also used as a landfill tree to avoid soil erosion of the forest.

Main body

In South India, people cultivate this plant in their premises in order to protect themselves from the effects of thunder. In this review, the various research prospects of this plant have been analyzed and are summarized. The aim of this review is to provide the traditional uses, phytochemicals and pharmacological activities of B. racemosa, and to highlight the current pharmacological developments of this medicinal plant.

Conclusions

The B. racemosa has immense therapeutic potential for treating diseases with both traditional and pharmacological applications. But many traditional uses of B. racemosa have not been validated by current investigations in the aspects of pharmaceutical. Until now, research on phyto-constituents from B. racemosa has not been done in an extensive way. Hence, the identified phytochemicals of B. racemosa should also be subjected to pharmacological studies to illuminate the biological mechanisms of these unreported secondary metabolites for the prevention of diseases or microbial infections and other health disorders of human and animal races.

Self-Perceived Independent Living Skills and Self-Determination as a Method of Evaluating a Residential Program in Young Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Prior research shows that employment programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) fail to address ASD as a heterogeneous disorder and focus on specific ASD traits associated with difficulty in obtaining and maintaining employment. This study provides descriptive evidence that self-perceptions of self-determination improve in young adults with ASD who participate in a residential program that promotes Wehmeyer and Schalock’s essential characteristics of self-determined behavior: behavioral autonomy, self-regulated behavior, acting in a psychologically empowered manner, and self-realization. Qualitative surveys were administered to 60 participants (17-28 years old) on perceptions of self-determination, confidence in independent living skills, and program effectiveness regarding case management and sustainable employment. One-sided t-tests using pre- and post-program responses were assessed. Post- versus pre-program means were significantly higher in participants feeling confident to live alone (p = 0.0059). Findings suggest that programs adopting self-determined behavior may be more effective in increasing self-confidence for individuals with ASD. However, these findings warrant long-term analysis to assess the continuity of program success and sustained employment.

Energy and carbon budgeting of traditional land use change with groundnut based cropping system for environmental quality, resilient soil health and farmers income in eastern Indian Himalayas

Energy intensive traditional cereals based monoculture often lead to high greenhouse gas emissions and degradation of land and environmental quality. Present study aimed at evaluating the energy and carbon budget of diversified groundnut (Arachis hypogea L) based cropping system with over existing traditional practice towards the development of a sustainable production technology through restoration of soil and environmental quality and enhancement of farming resiliency by stabilizing farmers' income. The trials comprised of three introduced groundnut based systems viz. groundnut- pea (Pisum sativum), groundnut-lentil (Lens esculenta) and groundnut-toria (Brasssica campestris var. Toria) replacing three existing systems viz. maize (Zea mays L) - fallow, maize - toria, and rice (Oryza sativa L)-fallow systems. Four years study revealed that adoption of groundnut based systems reduced non-renewable energy input use (fertilizers, chemical, machinery and fossil fuels) by 25.5%, consequently that reduced the cost of production. Repeated analysis of variance measurement also affirmed that groundnut based systems (groundnut-pea>groundnut-lentil> groundnut-toria) increased the energy use efficiency, energy productivity, carbon use efficiency, net returns and decreased the specific energy and energy intensiveness. Groundnut based systems increased the mean system productivity and water productivity in terms of groundnut equivalent yield by 3.7 and 3.1 folds over existing practice. The savings of fossil fuel reduced greenhouse gas emissions owing to reduced use of farm machinery and synthetic fertilizers. Groundnut based systems significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the soil carbon concentration (8.7-18.1%) and enzymatic activities (27.1-51.8%) over existing practice. Consequently, estimated soil quality index values were 35.9-77.3% higher under groundnut based systems than existing practice. Thus, the study indicated the resilient nature of groundnut based systems as an environmentally safe and sustainable production technology for enhancing resource use efficiency, reduce carbon emission, energy intensiveness and cost of production in the Eastern Himalaya region of India and similar ecosystems.

Creating a Pipeline for Minority Physicians: Medical-Student-Led Programming

Medical School Outreach Programming provides value to medical schools and the community by: (1) fulfilling medical school accreditation requirements, (2) creating pipelines to promote diversity in future healthcare professionals, and (3) providing medical students with opportunities for extracurricular community-level engagement. An Outreach Program initiated at a U.S. community-based medical school provides a medical student-led model with primary goals of improving college candidacy and healthcare career representation for underserved and under-represented minorities in the United States. The Outreach Program also promotes the personal growth and education of medical students.

Is Community-engaged Learning Possible During a Pandemic: A Call for Culturally Competent Medical Education

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Previously, medical school curriculum focused on faculty or physician-led basic science and traditional clinical experiences, with medical students only gaining experience of the community in which they practice during residency. In an effort to enable students to understand US healthcare disparities, the introduction of public health topics regarding marginalized communities and underrepresented individuals have been included in the classroom. However, missing from this shift is the inclusion of authentic public health educational experiences for medical students. These learning experiences are vital to truly understanding the marginalized and discriminated patient populations physicians will encounter. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has brought forth challenges for medical educators in numerous ways including how to effectively prepare students in understanding cultural competency through community-engaged learning for a new set of patient population; the pandemic patient. Due to health disparities, each patient experienced this pandemic differently based on their individual, cultural and community setting; also highlighting the importance of community-engaged learning. Here, the authors posit the role and importance of community-engaged learning in medical education and its utilization during the changing medical landscape due to COVID-19.

Investigating Social Determinants of Health in an Urban Direct Primary Care Clinic

Direct primary care (DPC) is an emerging model of care distinguished by lower price points for quality comprehensive services. The affordability of DPC attracts a broad patient population that may encompass a wide range of socioeconomic needs. It is critical to identify social determinants of health (SDH) in DPC practices to design strategies aimed to mitigate social risk factors, especially for vulnerable populations that can only afford DPC. As part of this SDH screening initiative, the purpose of the present descriptive study was to assess the SDH characteristics of patients from an urban DPC clinic. To identify these SDH factors, a cohort of 31 patients from the DPC clinic was asked to complete a questionnaire from the Protocol for Responding to and Assessing Patient Assets, Risks, and Experiences (PRAPARE). The survey outcomes revealed top socioeconomic needs in the domains of stress (77.4%), insurance (51.6%), social integration and support (38.7%), unmet medicine or healthcare needs (35.5%), and unemployment (32.2%). In adopting a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, the research team shared the survey outcomes with the DPC clinic to facilitate improvements in overall patient care and implementation of services aimed to address social risk factors as identified in the study.

Promoting Physician Diversity through Medical Student Led Outreach and Pipeline Programs

INTRODUCTION

Current projections anticipate a dramatic shift from historical population demographics in the United States. Racial and ethnic minorities are expected to constitute the majority of the population by 2050. However, racial minorities continue to be underrepresented in medical school admissions and the physician workforce. Creating a medical student and physician workforce that reflects population demographics of their patients will be an important determinant in promoting public health and health equity.

METHODS

Medical student led educational outreach programming targeting middle and high school students is one way by which current medical students can actively work to systematically address barriers to aspiring URiM medical students.

RESULTS

Opportunities for medical students to implement meaningful educational outreach programming are limited only by personal motivation and institutional support. Implementation of these programs would provide college and medical school candidacy support for aspiring medical students while providing personal development and education benefits to medical students implementing the program.

CONCLUSION

The authors call on medical students across the country to join in pursuit of health equity and a diverse physician workforce that reflects the evolving demographics of the United States. Medical students can impact the health of local communities through implementation of educational outreach programming to facilitate access to medical education for middle and high school students.

Anticancer efficacy of 6-thioguanine loaded chitosan nanoparticles with or without curcumin

6-Thioguanine encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles (6-TG-CNPs) has formulated by the ionic-gelation method. Morphologically, the 6-TG-CNPs were spherical and showed mean size, PDI, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency of 261.63 ± 6.01 nm, 0.34 ± 0.10, +15.97 ± 0.46 mV and 44.27%, respectively. The IR spectra confirmed the 6-TG complex with chitosan. The in vitro drug release profile of 6-TG-CNPs revealed an increase in sustained-release (91.40 ± 1.08% at 48 h) at pH 4.8 compared to less sustained-release (73.96 ± 1.12% at 48 h) at pH 7.4. The MTT assay was conducted on MCF-7 and PA-1 cell lines at 48 h incubation to determine % cell viability. The IC₅₀ values of 6-TG, 6-TG-CNPs, and curcumin for MCF-7 were 23.09, 17.82, and 15.73 μM, respectively. Likewise, IC₅₀ values of 6-TG, 6-TG-CNPs, and curcumin for PA-1 were 5.81, 3.92, and 12.89 μM, respectively. A combination of 6-TG-CNPs (IC₂₅) with curcumin (IC₂₅) on PA-1 and MCF-7 showed % cell viability of 43.67 ± 0.02 and 49.77 ± 0.05, respectively. The in vitro cytotoxicity potential in terms of % cell viability, early apoptosis, G2/M phase arrest, and DNA demethylating activity of 6-TG-CNPs alone and combination with curcumin proved to be more effective than that of 6-TG on PA-1 cells.

Treatment response and long term follow up in nineteen dogs diagnosed with chronic enteropathy in Australia

Chronic enteropathy (CE) in dogs is common worldwide, but little data is available from Australia. The aim of this study was to describe treatment response and long-term outcome in a cohort of dogs with CE. Dogs were prospectively enrolled at Murdoch University and the University of Melbourne. After diagnostic investigation to rule out diseases other than CE, dogs underwent sequential therapeutic trials until achieving a clinical response (diet then antibiotics, and finally immunosuppressants). Success was defined as 75% reduction of clinical severity for a minimum of five weeks. A total of 21 dogs were enrolled, and 19 completed the study. One dog was euthanised for lack of response to treatment and one excluded for lack of owner compliance. Most dogs responded to diet (n = 10), followed by antibiotics (n = 7) and immunosuppressants (n = 2). Long-term remission (median 21.1 months, [3.0-44.7]) was achieved in eight out of ten dietary responders without additional treatment. In contrast, only two dogs with antibiotic response remained in long-term remission, of which one needed on-going antibiotic treatment. Longer term remission was achieved in the two dogs treated with immunosuppressants with on-going low dose therapy. This study concludes that most dogs referred for CE in Australia respond to dietary treatment (even after previous dietary interventions), and remission is long-term compared to dogs treated with an antibiotic. Furthermore, the need for long-term antibiotics in some dogs to maintain response may lead to antibiotic resistance. This study supports adequate dietary trials for CE in dogs, and a need for alternative second-line treatments.

Concentrations of interleukin-6, -8, -10 and tumour necrosis factor-α in the faeces of dogs with acute diarrhoea

AIM

To compare the concentration of faecal cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, -8, -10, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α in dogs with acute diarrhoea with clinically normal (non-diarrhoeic) dogs.

METHODS

A total of 14 dogs presenting with acute diarrhoea, and 25 dogs with no history of gastrointestinal signs in the 2 months prior to enrolment, were recruited from two veterinary hospitals in Melbourne, Australia. Concentrations of IL-6, -8, -10, and TNF-α were measured in faecal samples using canine-specific ELISA.

RESULTS

The diarrhoeic dogs were diagnosed with or managed for acute gastroenteritis (n = 6), extra-intestinal neoplasia (n = 2), parvoviral enteritis (n = 1), hepatopathy (n = 1), acute pancreatitis (n = 1), hypoadrenocorticism (n = 1), gastric dilatation volvulus (n = 1) and myelopathy (n = 1). IL-6 was detectable in the faeces of 10/14 (71%) diarrhoeic and 7/25 (28%) non-diarrhoeic dogs, and median concentrations were 10.8 (min 0.0, max 54.0) and 2.0 (min 0.0, max15.0) pg/mL, respectively (p = 0.01). IL-8 was detectable in the faeces of all diarrhoeic and 11 non-diarrhoeic dogs, and median concentrations were 149.7 (min 3.72, max 730.1) and 3.4 (min 0.0, max 22.5) pg/mL, respectively (p < 0.001). TNF-α was detected in the faeces of two of the diarrhoeic dogs (3.4 and 15.6 pg/mL) and none of the non-diarrhoeic dogs. IL-10 was not detected in the faeces of any dog.

CONCLUSIONS

Faecal concentrations of IL-6 and -8 were higher in diarrhoeic compared to non-diarrhoeic dogs, and are therefore potential candidates for non-invasive biomarkers to assess the severity and resolution of acute intestinal disease in dogs. However their correlation with disease progression and severity needs to be further investigated before their full clinical application can be determined.

Improving Health Outcomes for Immigrant Families Through IPV Screening: Resources and Recommendations for Pediatric Health Care Providers

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant yet preventable public health problem affecting 1 in 15 children annually. Children exposed to IPV exhibit lifelong consequences including increased risks of social, emotional, psychological and behavioral problems (mood and anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, substance abuse, and school-related problems). Limited research exists in identifying and assessing gaps in IPV screening and surveillance techniques for vulnerable populations such as immigrants, refugees, or in families where English is not spoken in the home. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends IPV screening and counseling as part of pediatric office visits, without providing culturally appropriate tools for use. The nature of the patient-physician relationship and opportunities for intervention occurring during well child visits uniquely positions pediatric health care providers to identify and provide support for IPV victims and children. IPV screening should be routine, culturally appropriate, administered to all caregivers and all providers should be trained in surveilling and screening for IPV in immigrant and vulnerable populations.

Genetic diversity of Chilli veinal mottle virus infecting different chilli landraces in North East India indicates the possibility of transboundary movement of virus

Diverse chilli genetic resources of North East India occupy a unique niche in the Nation's chilli gene pool. Widely cultivated chilli landraces (King chilli: Capsicum chinense, bird eye chilli: Capsicum frutescens and Capsicum annuum) of North East India in general and Manipur in particular suffer from decline complex due to high incidence of viral diseases. With this background and the known prominent distribution of Chilli veinal mottle virus (ChiVMV) in Asian region, we studied its prevalence and association with diverse symptoms of chilli landraces. Molecular indexing of samples from 40 chilli plantation groves of Manipur using reverse transcription (RT)-PCR targeting the coat protein (CP) region of ChiVMV genome revealed a high incidence and wide prevalence. Out of a total of 127 chilli samples collected from different groves of Manipur, 81 chilli samples (63.78%) were positive for ChiVMV. Interestingly, ChiVMV infection rate was comparatively higher in the hilly groves (69.23% samples positive) compared to the valley groves (60% samples positive). Present study through the extensive surveys and molecular indexing work, conclusively reported the association of ChiVMV with diverse symptoms like cupping of leaf lamina with mottling, vein banding and puckering in different chilli landraces. Further, five representative ChiVMV isolates sampled from different groves of Manipur upon mechanical inoculation showed significant variation in symptom expression, indicating wide pathogenic diversity among them. Partial coat protein (CP) sequence analysis of five ChiVMV isolates from Manipur although indicated genetic homogeneity among them, but distinctiveness from ChiVMV isolates reported from the other parts of India. Phylogenetic clustering of ChiVMV isolates from Manipur near Chinese isolates rather than other Indian isolates suggested the possibility of transboundary movement.

Prospective glioma grading using single-dose dynamic contrast-enhanced perfusion MRI

AIM

To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of single-dose dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in prospective evaluation of glioma grading and to correlate the relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) values with mitotic and ki-67 indexes obtained at histopathology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 53 histologically proven patients with glioma were included in this study. DCE-MRI perfusion with a single dose of contrast medium was included in brain tumour protocol and prospective grading of glioma into low and high grade was done based on a previously reported rCBV cut-off value of 3. Tumours with rCBV ≥ 3 were considered to be high grade and rCBV < 3 were considered to be low grade. The sensitivity and specificity of the cut-off value were estimated. Ki-67 and mitotic indexes were also obtained on histopathological analysis along with histological grading.

RESULTS

Based on pre-defined rCBV cut-off values, prospective grading of low- and high-grade glioma was achieved with a sensitivity and specificity of 97.22% and 100%, respectively. Significant correlation was found between the mitotic/ki-67 indexes and rCBV values when data for high- and low-grade tumours was combined.

CONCLUSION

DCE-MRI performed with a single dose of contrast medium is as effective as a protocol with a double-dose of contrast medium for glioma grading using 3 T MRI and could be added to the routine evaluation protocol of brain tumours.

Indigenous traditional knowledge and usage of folk bio-medicines among Rongmei tribe of Tamenglong district of Manipur, India

BACKGROUND

Rongmei tribe (Kooki), are inhabitant of the Charoi Chagotlong village, Tupul, Tamenglong district of Manipur have the traditional knowledge of folk bio-medicine based on diverse plant species for the prevention and cure of certain chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to document and preserve the indigenous knowledge of the Rongmei tribe on folk medicines.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The present work was based on methodical field survey conducted between 2010, to 2013. Local people of within 30-70 age groups of both sexes were interviewed and a group discussion (using a structured interview schedule), was held to know about the type of plant parts used in folk bio-medicines, and their mode of use. The interviewers were drawn from a wide array of disciplines (Vendors, Farmers club, NGO's, scientific societies, etc.), to obtain maximum information in relation to folk bio-medicine.

RESULTS

A total of 60 species belonging to 36 different families (ranging from gymnosperm to angiosperm with medicinal benefits), were discussed briefly with significant emphasis on their local name, scientific name, family, parts used; they claimed to cure various ailments from these plants in this mode of folk bio-medicine. The different plant parts used were leaves, fruits, bulbs, bark, roots, seeds, tuber, trunk, flower, shoot, whole plant, rhizome, stem, wood and berries. Based on a life form of the reported plants comprise herbs, shrubs, trees, grasses, bulb, vine, climber, tuber and succulent.

CONCLUSION

Efforts should be made to promote the use of traditional biomedicines within rural communities to preserve the traditional knowledge.

Unilateral nevoid telangiectasia syndrome (UNTS) associated with chronic hepatitis C virus and positive immunoreactivity for VEGF

Unilateral Nevoid Telangectasia Syndrome (UNTS) is characterized by superficial telangiectasias in a unilateral distribution. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may play a role in the pathogenesis of UNTS in patients with underlying hepatic disease. We report a case of a patient with UNTS accompanied by chronic hepatitis C virus infection, with a normal serum estrogen profile and strong positive immunohistochemical staining of lesional skin with VEGF.

Synthesis and characterization of certain photocrosslinkable thermotropic liquid crystalline random copolyesters containing arylidene moiety

A new series of 12 thermotropic liquid crystalline and photocrosslinkable random copolyesters were synthesized from terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid and 4,4'-oxybis(benzoic acid) with four different arylidene diols and a common diol 1,2-bis(4-hydroxybenzoyloxy)ethane by direct polycondensation with diphenylchlorophosphate. The resulting polymers had inherent viscosities in the range 1.20–1.74 dl/g. Their structural features were investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), 1H, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The thermal behaviour of the copolyesters was investigated with differential scanning calorimetry and hot stage optical polarized microscopy. Our investigation on the effect of monomer structure on liquid crystalline behaviour shows that the copolymers containing bis(benzylidene)cycloalkanone exhibited higher melting and isotropization temperatures and extended liquid crystalline range. All of the copolymers showed some degree of crystallinity as evidenced by wide-angle X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The photocrosslinkability of these polymers was established with UV irradiation/UV spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

Copper and cadmium removal from synthetic industrial wastewater using chitosan and nylon 6

PURPOSE

Chitosan with nylon 6 membranes was evaluated as adsorbents to remove copper and cadmium ions from synthetic industrial wastewater.

METHODS

Chitosan and nylon 6 with glutaraldehyde blend ratio with (1:1+Glu, 1:2+Glu, and 2:1+Glu) have been prepared and these were used as membranes to remove copper and cadmium ions from synthetic industrial wastewater. Characterization of the synthesized membrane has been done with FTIR, XRD, TGA/DTA, DSC, and SEM. Chemical parameters for quantities of adsorption of heavy metal contamination have been done and the kinetics of adsorption has also been carried out.

RESULTS

The optimal pH for the removal of Cd(II) and Cu(II) using chitosan with nylon 6. Maximum removal of the metals was observed at pH 5 for both the metals. The effect of adsorbent dose also has a pronounced effect on the percentage of removal of the metals. Maximum removal of both the metals was observed at 5 g/100 ml of the adsorbent.

CONCLUSION

Copper and cadmium recovery is parallel at all time. The percentage of removal of copper increased with increase in the pH from 3 to 5. In the case of cadmium containing wastewater, the maximum removal of metal occurred at pH 5. The uptake amount of Cu(2+) ions on chitosan increased rapidly with increasing contact time from 0 to 360 min and then reaches equilibrium after 360 min; the equilibrium constant for copper and cadmium ions is more or less the same for the adsorption reaction.

Modification of pharmacokinetics of norfloxacin following oral administration of curcumin in rabbits

Investigation was carried out in adult New Zealand white rabbits to study the influence of curcumin pre-treatment on pharmacokinetic disposition of norfloxacin following single oral administration. Sixteen rabbits were divided into two groups of eight each consisting of either sex. Animals in group-I were administered norfloxacin (100 mg/kg body weight p.o), while animals in group-II received similar dose of norfloxacin after pre-treatment with curcumin (60 mg/kg body weight per day, 3 days, p.o). Blood samples were drawn from the marginal ear vein into heparin-coated vials at 0 (zero time), 5, 10, 15, 30 min and 1, 2, 4, 6, 12 and 24 h post-treatment. Plasma norfloxacin concentrations were determined by high performance liquid chromatography. The plasma concentration-time profile of norfloxacin was adequately described by a one-compartment open model. The pharmacokinetic data revealed that curcumin-treated animals had significantly (p < or = 0.05) higher area under the plasma concentration time curve and area under the first moment of plasma drug concentration-time curve. Prior treatment of curcumin significantly (p < or = 0.05) increased elimination half-life and volume of distribution of norfloxacin. Further treatment with curcumin reduced loading and maintenance doses by 26% and 24% respectively.

Evaluation of Testicular Toxicity Following Short-term Exposure to Cypermethrin in Albino Mice

The present study was undertaken to assess the testicular toxicity following short-term exposure to cypermethrin (α-CP) in albino mice. Cypermethrin was dissolved in arachis oil and administered to two groups of mice (n = 12/group) orally at the dose rate of 250 mg/kg body weight, once a day for 28 days. Fifty percent of the animals in both the groups were sacrificed on day 14 and the remaining on day 28. Plasma samples were subjected to radioimmunoassay to determine testosterone levels. The testes were collected to determine the cholesterol levels and the activity of transaminases (AST and ALT) or epididymal alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Histological study of testicular tissue was also undertaken to examine the α-CP-induced ultrastructural changes using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). α-CP significantly (P<0.05) increased the activities of testicular AST (1.36±0.12 vs. 1.19±0.10), ALT(1.78±0.11 vs. 1.36±0.09), and significantly (P<0.05) decreased the testosterone levels (0.86±0.24 vs. 1.72±0.18). Testicular cholesterol levels were elevated in treated animals as compared to control (1.81±0.16 vs. 1.42±0.08). Epididymal alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was also decreased significantly (P<0.05) in treated animals (1.10±0.20 vs. 1.64±0.1). Histological studies on day 28 revealed rupture of spermatogonic cell membrane, shrinkage in the nucleus, stages of apoptosis, condensation of chromatin, and decreased cytoplasmic organelles. The study suggested that short-term exposure to α-CP in albino mice induced toxicopathological lesions in testicular tissue leading to decreased plasma testosterone levels.

Genetic control of rodent midbrain dopaminergic neuron development in the light of human disease

Dopamine-producing neurons in the mammalian midbrain have received considerable attention in recent years because of their involvement in diverse neurological and psychiatric human disorders such as Parkinson's Disease (PD), schizophrenia and addiction. Although the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of these disorders are far from being understood, it is meanwhile accepted that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors lead to the disease state. More recent evidence also suggests that both neurological and psychiatric disorders result from early disturbances affecting the normal development of the mesencephalic dopaminergic (mesDA) neurons. Understanding the cues directing the generation of the different mesDA cell groups, the establishment of their proper connections within the brain and their maintenance in the adult are therefore also of great clinical interest. Rodents, and in particular the mouse, have served as the classical "surrogate" organism for these studies based on their phylogenetic relationship to humans, their relatively well characterized mesDA system on both the anatomical and physiological levels, and especially on the propensity of the mouse to genetic manipulation enabling the dissection of genetic pathways underlying the proper generation and maintenance of the mesDA system in this species. In the present review, we will summarize recent findings in the overall context of murine mesDA neuron development.