Green synthesis aspects of (R)-(-)-mandelic acid; a potent pharmaceutically active agent and its future prospects

(R)-(-)-mandelic acid is an important carboxylic acid known for its numerous potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry as it is an ideal starting material for the synthesis of antibiotics, antiobesity drugs and antitumor agents. In past few decades, the synthesis of (R)-(-)-mandelic acid has been undertaken mainly through the chemical route. However, chemical synthesis of optically pure (R)-(-)-mandelic acid is difficult to achieve at an industrial scale. Therefore, its microbe mediated production has gained considerable attention as it exhibits many merits over the chemical approaches. The present review focuses on various biotechnological strategies for the production of (R)-(-)-mandelic acid through microbial biotransformation and enzymatic catalysis; in particular, an analysis and comparison of the synthetic methods and different enzymes. The wild type as well as recombinant microbial strains for the production of (R)-(-)-mandelic acid have been elucidated. In addition, different microbial strategies used for maximum bioconversion of mandelonitrile into (R)-(-)-mandelic acid are discussed in detail with regard to higher substrate tolerance and maximum bioconversion.HighlightsMandelonitrile, mandelamide and o-chloromandelonitrile can be used as substrates to produce (R)-(-)-mandelic acid by enzymes.Three enzymes (nitrilase, nitrile hydratase and amidase) are systematically introduced for production of (R)-(-)-mandelic acid.Microbial transformation is able to produce optically pure (R)-(-)-mandelic acid with 100% productive yield.

Antiviral potential of anthraquinones from Polygonaceae, Rubiaceae and Asphodelaceae: Potent candidates in the treatment of SARS-COVID-19, A comprehensive review

Medicinal plants are being used as an alternative source of health management to cure various human ailments. The healing role is attributed to the hidden dynamic groups of various phytoconstituents, most of which have been recorded from plants and their derivatives. Nowadays, medicinal plants have gained more attention due to their pharmacological and industrial potential. Aromatic compounds are one of the dynamic groups of secondary metabolites (SM) naturally present in plants; and anthraquinones of this group are found to be attractive due to their high bioactivity and low toxicity. They have been reported to exhibit anticancer, antimicrobial, immune-suppressive, antioxidant, antipyretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory activities. Anthraquinones have been also shown to exhibit potent antiviral effects against different species of viruses. Though, it has been reported that a medicinal plant with antiviral activity against one viral infection may be used to combat other types of viral infections. Therefore, in this review, we explored and highlighted the antiviral properties of anthraquinones of Polygonaceae, Rubiaceae and Asphodelaceae families. Anthraquinones from these plant families have been reported for their effects on human respiratory syncytial virus and influenza virus. They are hence presumed to have antiviral potential against SARS-CoV as well. Thus, anthraquinones are potential candidates that need to be screened thoroughly and developed as drugs to combat COVID-19. The information documented in this review could therefore serve as a starting point in developing novel drugs that may help to curb the SARS-COVID-19 pandemic.

Development of effective biotransformation process for benzohydroxamic acid production using Bacillus smithii IIIMB2907

The present study entails the usefulness of thermophilic amidase-producing bacterium in the biotransformation of benzamide to benzohydroxamic acid (BHA). A bacterium Bacillus smithii IIIMB2907 was isolated from a soil sample collected from hot springs of Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh, India. The whole cells of the bacterium displayed versatile substrate specificity by exhibiting significant activity with a diverse range of amides. In addition, amidase from thermophilic bacterium was induced by adding Ɛ-caprolactam in the mineral base media. The optimum temperature and pH of acyltransferase activity of amidase enzyme were found to be 50 °C and 7.0, respectively. Interestingly, half-life (t _1/2) of this enzyme was 17.37 h at 50 °C. Bench-scale production and purification of BHA was carried out at optimized conditions which resulted in the recovery of 64% BHA with a purity of 96%. Owing to this, the reported process in the present study can be considered of immense industrial significance for the production of BHA.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-022-03109-2.

Exploitation of E. coli for the production of penicillin G amidase: a tool for the synthesis of semisynthetic β-lactam antibiotics

BACKGROUND

Penicillin G amidase/acylases from microbial sources is a unique enzyme that belongs to the N-terminal nucleophilic hydrolase structural superfamily. It catalyzes the selective hydrolysis of side chain amide/acyl bond of penicillins and cephalosporins whereas the labile amide/acyl bond in the β-lactam ring remains intact. This review summarizes the production aspects of PGA from various microbial sources at optimized conditions. The minimal yield from wild strains has been extensively improved using varying strain improvement techniques like recombination and mutagenesis; further applied for the subsequent synthesis of 6-aminopenicillanic acid, which is an intermediate molecule for synthesis of a wide range of novel β-lactam antibiotics. Immobilization of PGA has also been attempted to enhance the durability of enzyme for the industrial purposes.

SHORT CONCLUSION

The present review provides an emphasis on exploitation of E. coli to enhance the microbial production of PGA. The latest achievements in the production of recombinant enzymes have also been discussed. Besides E. coli, other potent microbial strains with PGA activity must be explored to enhance the yields.

Production of salicylic acid; a potent pharmaceutically active agent and its future prospects

Salicylic acid is one of the potent pharmaceutical organic acids that have various applications in the medical field. It acts as a plant hormone and helps in plant's growth & defence against pathogens. Beyond its numerous functions in plants, SA has great pharmaceutical importance since it acts as an intermediate for the synthesis of various drugs and dyes e.g. aspirin. At the industrial scale, chemical methods are used for the synthesis of SA but presently, several other sources are available that have the capability to alternate the chemical process which will be a step forward toward green synthesis. Aim of this paper is to provide comprehensive knowledge of SA production and its biological application.

A comprehensive review on Morchella importuna: cultivation aspects, phytochemistry, and other significant applications

Morchella importuna is one of the most highly priced edible mushrooms and a rich source of bioactive substances with numerous beneficial medicinal properties. It has been artificially cultivated in the last few years but due to the unclear mechanism of its fruiting body formation, the stable production has not been achieved yet. This review aims to provide the detailed information about the current research status of the indoor and outdoor cultivation and significant applications of M. importuna worldwide with a vision to know more about its potential therapeutic index and edible values. It will provide the basis of better understanding about the need to develop biotechnological processes for morel farming under controlled conditions.

Bioprocess and genetic engineering aspects of ascomycin production: a review

BACKGROUND

Ascomycin is a highly valuable multifunctional drug which exhibits numerous biological properties. Being an immunosuppressant, it is known to prevent graft rejection in humans and has potential to treat varying skin ailments. Its derivatives represent a novel class of anti-inflammatory macrolactams. But the biosynthetic machinery of ascomycin is still unclear. Due to the structural complexity, there occurs difficulty in its chemical synthesis; therefore, microbial production has been preferred by using Streptomyces hygroscopicus subsp. ascomyceticus. Through several genetic manipulation and mutagenesis techniques, the yield can be increased by several folds without any difficulties. Genetic engineering has played a significant role in understanding the biosynthetic pathway of ascomycin.

SHORT CONCLUSION

Recently, many efforts have been made to utilize the therapeutic effects of ascomycin and its derivatives. This article covers concepts related to the production kinetics of ascomycin including an update of the ongoing yield improvement techniques as well as screening method of novel strains for ascomycin production.

Production aspects of testosterone by microbial biotransformation and future prospects

In human males, TS plays a key role in maintaining health and sexual functioning. Cholesterol acts as a precursor molecule for its biosynthesis. The microbial biotransformation of cholesterol by numerous microbes like bacteria, fungi, yeasts, etc. has led to the synthesis of TS out of human body making it a great example for industrial steroid production due to its therapeutic properties. Biotransformation through microbes is more advantageous over chemical synthesis as it gives higher conversion rates, higher specificity; reaction goes under mild conditions like temperature and neutral pH, thus being an effective alternate to chemical route. Current review focuses on production aspects of TS by microbial biotransformation and its future prospects with recent advancement.

Novel amidase catalysed process for the synthesis of vorinostat drug

AIM

Presently, N-hydroxy-N'-phenyloctanediamide (vorinostat) which is an effective histone deacetylase inhibitor, is being synthesized chemically. Hence, present study aims to develop an eco-friendly approach for the synthesis of vorinostat from N'-phenyloctanediamide through biotransformation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using the amidase of Bacillus smithii IIIMB2907 in time course conversion and organic solvent compatibility, maximum bioconversion was observed at 12 h of reaction time and in presence of ethanol, respectively. Potassium phosphate buffer of pH 7·0 supported maximum bioconversion of N'-phenyloctanediamide (10 mmol l^-1 ) into N-hydroxy-N'- phenyloctanediamide at 40°C. Bench scale study was successfully carried out with 83% yield of purified vorinostat.

CONCLUSION

In this study, an eco-friendly approach for the biotransformation of N'-phenyloctanediamide into vorinostat was developed by using cell free extract of thermophilic strain B. smithii IIIMB2907.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Microbial amidase has achieved remarkable attention in the field of biotransformation for the green synthesis of hydroxamic acids. Utilization of amidase from B. smithii IIIMB2907, specifically in the synthesis of vorinostat drug is a foremost attempt in the development a novel process and can also be employed in the synthesis of its derivatives as well.

Uranium series disequilibrium studies in Chenchu colony area, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India

An attempt is made to understand uranium series disequilibrium in unconformity proximal related uranium mineralisation in Chenchu colony area, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. The uranium mineralization in Chenchu colony is the western continuity of the Koppunuru uranium deposit and predominantly hosted by gritty quartzite/conglomerate, which occasionally transgresses to underlying basement granite/basic rock. Disequilibrium studies are based on borehole core samples (35 boreholes, No. of samples=634) broadly divided in two groups of cover rocks of Banganapalle formation (above unconformity) and basement granites (below unconformity). Linear regression coefficient between uranium and radium is 0.95, which reflects excellent correlation and significant enrichment of parent uranium. Disequilibrium studies have indicated predominant disequilibrium in favour of parent uranium (35%), which is probably due to the weathering process causing migration of some of the radionuclides while dissolution of minerals due to groundwater action might have also played a significant role. Further, escape of radon might have accentuated the disequilibrium factor resulting in an increase in the grade of the mineralization. This is well corroborated by the presence of fractures and faults in the study area providing channels for radon migration/escape.

Interobserver reproducibility of Gleason grading of prostatic adenocarcinoma among general pathologists

CONTEXT

Gleason grade is the most widely used grading system for prostatic carcinoma and is recommended by World Health Organization. It is essential that there should be good interobserver reproducibility of this grading system as it has important implications in patient management.

AIM

To assess interobserver reproducibility of Gleason grading of prostatic adenocarcinoma.

DESIGN

A total of 20 cases of prostatic adenocarcinoma were scored using Gleason grade by 21 general pathologists. The scores were then compared using κ-coefficient and consensus score.

RESULTS

For Gleason score groups (2-4, 5-6, 7 and 8-10) overall agreement with consensus score was 68%. Exact agreement for Gleason scores with consensus score was 43.3% and 92.3% within ±1 of the consensus score. κ coefficient for primary grade ranged from -0.32 to 0.92 with 60% of the readings in fair to moderate agreement range; and for secondary grade κ ranged from -0.30 to 0.62 with 78% of the readings in slight to fair agreement range. Kappa for Gleason scores ranged from -0.13 to 0.55 with 80% of the readings in slight to fair agreement range; and for Gleason score groups κ ranged from -0.11 to 0.82 with 68.5% of the readings in fair to moderate agreement range.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study interobserver reproducibility of Gleason scores among general pathologists was at lower level and it highlights the need to improve the observer reproducibility by continuous educational sessions and taking second opinion in cases where grade could significantly influence management.

Microwave assisted synthesis, spectroscopic, electrochemical and DNA cleavage studies of lanthanide(III) complexes with coumarin based imines

The present work stems from our interest in the synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of lanthanide(III) complexes of a class of coumarin based imines which have been prepared by the interaction of hydrated lanthanide(III) chloride with the sodium salts of 3-acetylcoumarin thiosemicarbazone (ACTSZH) and 3-acetylcoumarin semicarbazone (ACSZH) in 1:3 molar ratio using thermal as well as microwave method. Characterization of the ligands as well as the metal complexes have been carried out by elemental analysis, melting point determinations, molecular weight determinations, magnetic moment, molar conductance, IR, (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR, electronic, EPR, X-ray powder diffraction and mass spectral studies. Spectral studies confirm ligands to be monofunctional bidentate and octahedral environment around metal ions. The redox behavior of one of the synthesized metal complex was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Further, free ligands and their metal complexes have been screened for their antimicrobial as well as DNA cleavage activity. The results of these findings have been presented and discussed.

Palladium(II) and platinum(II) derivatives of benzothiazoline ligands: Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial and antispermatogenic activity

A series of Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes with two N(∩)S donor ligands, 5-chloro-3-(indolin-2-one)benzothiazoline and 6-nitro-3-(indolin-2-one)benzothiazoline, have been synthesized by the reaction of metal chlorides (PdCl2 and PtCl2) with ligands in 1:2 molar ratios. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by elemental analyses, melting point determinations and a combination of electronic, IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopic techniques for structure elucidation. In order to evaluate the effect of metal ions upon chelation, both the ligands and their complexes have been screened for their antimicrobial activity against the various pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains. The metal complexes have shown to be more antimicrobial against the microbial species as compared to free ligands. One of the ligands, 5-chloro-3-(indolin-2-one)benzothiazoline and its corresponding palladium and platinum complexes have been tested for their antifertility activity in male albino rats. The marked reduction in sperm motility and density resulted in infertility by 62-90%. Significant alterations were found in biochemical parameters of reproductive organs in treated animals as compared to control group. It is concluded that all these effects may finally impair the fertility of male rats.

Ferrocenyl-substituted Schiff base complexes of boron: synthesis, structural, physico-chemical and biochemical aspects

Biological important complexes of boron(III) derived from 1-acetylferrocenehydrazinecarboxamide (L1H), 1-acetylferrocenehydrazinecarbothioamide (L2H) and 1-acetylferrocene carbodithioic acid (L3H) have been prepared and investigated using a combination of microanalytical analysis, melting point, electronic, IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectral studies, cyclic voltammetry and X-ray powder diffraction studies. Boron isopropoxide interacts with the ligands in 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 molar ratios (boron:ligand) resulting in the formation of coloured products. On the basis of conductance and spectral evidences, tetrahedral structures for boron(III) complexes have been assigned. The ligands are coordinated to the boron(III) via the azomethine nitrogen atom and the thiolic sulfur atom/enolic oxygen atom. On the basis of X-ray powder diffraction study one of the representative boron complex was found to have orthorhombic lattice, having lattice parameters: a=9.9700, b=15.0000 and c=7.0000. Both the ligands and their complexes have been screened for their biological activity on several pathogenic fungi and bacteria and were found to possess appreciable fungicidal and bactericidal properties. Plant growth regulating activity of one of the ligand and its complexes has also been recorded on gram plant, and results have been discussed.

Microwave assisted synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of palladium and platinum complexes with azomethines

Reactions of 3-acetyl-2,5-dimethylthiophene with thiosemicarbazide and semicarbazide hydrochloride resulted in the formation of new heterocyclic ketimines, 3-acetyl-2,5-dimethylthiophene thiosemicarbazone (C(9)H(13)N(3)OS(2) or L(1)H) and 3-acetyl-2,5- dimethylthiophene semicarbazone (C(9)H(13)N(3)OS or L(2)H), respectively. The Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes have been synthesized by mixing metal salts in 1:2 molar ratios with these ligands by using microwave as well as conventional heating method for comparison purposes. The authenticity of these ligands and their complexes has been established on the basis of elemental analysis, melting point determinations, molecular weight determinations, IR, (1)H NMR and UV spectral studies. These studies showed that the ligands coordinate to the metal atom in a monobasic bidentate manner and square planar environment around the metal atoms has been proposed to the complexes. Both the ligands and their complexes have been screened for their antimicrobial activities. The antiamoebic activity of both the ligands and their palladium compounds against the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica has been tested.

Microwave-assisted synthesis, characterization and biological screening of nitrogen-sulphur and nitrogen-oxygen donor ligands and their organotin(IV) complexes

Series of new trigonal bipyramidal and octahedral complexes of tin(IV) have been synthesized by the reaction of dimethyltin(IV) dichloride with 4-nitro-benzanilidethiosemicarbazone (L(1)H), 4-chlorobenzanilidethiosemicarbazone (L(2)H), 4-nitrobenzanilidesemicarbazone (L(3)H) and 4-chlorobenzanilidesemicarbazone (L(4)H). The unimolecular and bimolecular reactions of dimethyltin(IV) dichloride and monobasic bidentate ligands were carried out using microwave irradiations as the thermal energy source and the complexes so formed were characterized by elemental analysis, conductance measurements, molecular weight determinations and spectral data, viz. IR, UV-vis, (1)H and (13)C NMR. The complexes have also been prepared by the general thermal methods for comparison purposes. The comparison data support the synthesis using the microwave route, i.e. green chemistry route. The tin(IV) complexes show penta-coordinated structure for 1:1 complexes and hexa-coordinated for 1:2 complexes. The antifungal, antibacterial and antifertility activities have been examined and the results were indeed very encouraging.

Investigations of the possible pharmacological effects of organotin(II) complexes

Antitumour, antifertility and histopathological investigations were carried out on male rats by the use of organotin complexes. The organotin complexes were synthesized by the alkylation of [Sn(TAML(n))Cl(2)] (n=1-4 and TAML(n) represents the tetraazamacrocyclic ligands) in the presence of CH(3)I or C(2)H(5)Br. The structures of all the complexes have been established on the basis of elemental analyses, conductivity measurements, IR, (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR, (119)Sn NMR and X-ray spectral data. The antitumour effect of the compounds was examined on swiss mice. The results obtained clearly indicated that the compounds, [C(2)H(5)Sn(TAML(3))C(5)H(5)N] and [C(2)H(5)Sn(TAML(4))C(5)H(5)N] display effective antitumour activity. The emphasis has been given on in vivo study on male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) by performing serum analyses, blood analyses and fertility test.

Temporal expression of transforming growth factor-beta2 and myostatin mRNA during embryonic myogenesis in Indian broilers

TGF-beta2 and myostatin, the members of TGF family, act through both autocrine and paracrine mechanisms to regulate the growth and differentiation at various developmental stages in chicken. The kinetics and expression profile of these two growth factors were investigated by semi-quantitative RT-PCR, during the myogenesis of Indian broiler chickens. Total RNA was isolated from whole embryos on each of embryonic days (E) 0-6 (n=3 per day) and from the biceps femoris muscle at E7-E18 (n=3 per day). The expression of TGF-beta2 was noticed on E2 that remained at the same level until E6. In biceps femoris muscle, higher level of TGF-beta2 expression was observed during E7-E12, which decreased gradually thereafter. These findings suggested that TGF-beta2 might be a regulatory factor participating in the myogenesis of chicken embryos. Initial myostatin expression was noticed on E1, even before the myogenic lineage is established in embryo. This finding suggested an additional role of myostatin in early chicken embryo development, other than myogenesis. Furthermore, myostatin expression was significantly higher on E3 as compared to earlier studies, where initial higher level was observed at E2, suggesting the differential expression of myostatin among breeds. Higher and almost static myostatin expression was noticed in biceps femoris muscle during the entire period of myogenesis (E7-E18). In the present study, the ontogeny of myostatin expression coincided with myogenesis of chicken. Therefore, it may be hypothesized that myostatin is not only a major determinant of muscle mass, but also involved in early embryogenesis in chickens.

Residues of fluoroquinolone drugs in the cloacal gland and other tissues of Japanese quail

1. In this study we investigated the residues of fluoroquinolone drugs (ciprofloxacin and pefloxacin) in the cloacal gland (a site of foam synthesis) and other tissues such as breast muscle, testes, brain, kidney and plasma. 2. Fifty-four healthy male Japanese quail were selected at random from a flock, maintained under uniform husbandry conditions and divided into three groups, each of 18 birds. Group I (control) received 1 ml vehicle (normal saline 0.9% (w/v) NaCl) daily for 12 d through the intraperitoneal route. Birds of groups II and III received ciprofloxacin and pefloxacin by the same route at the rate of 10 and 12 mg/kg body weight, respectively, every day for a similar period. 3. Birds from each group were killed, at 1, 5 and 10 d after the cessation of treatment, to collect the cloacal gland together with other tissues that were analysed for residual drugs. 4. Cloacal gland retained the maximum drug residues of ciprofloxacin (60%) and pefloxacin (80%) on d 10 compared with that on d 1 after drug withdrawal. The drug residues were found 60 and 80% in ciprofloxacin and pefloxacin groups, respectively, in the cloacal gland tissue even on d 10 after withdrawal of the treatment. 5. In the ciprofloxacin-treated group, all tissues except cloacal gland contained very small amounts of the drug residues on d 10 after treatment ended. In the pefloxacin group the cloacal gland, breast muscle and kidney retained a fairly high amount of drug even on d 10 after treatment ceased. No residues of pefloxacin were detectable in testes and brain throughout. 6. In conclusion, the cloacal gland in Japanese quail acted as the largest sink for the fluoroquinolone drugs. Ciprofloxacin was more widely distributed in different tissues and persisted for a shorter period than pefloxacin.

Improvement of water quality through biological denitrification

The present study was undertaken to observe the effect of biological denitrification process on water quality parameters. The results obtained in the present investigations show that the value of pH and alkalinity was increased due to generation of alkalinity during biological denitrification process. The obtained value of the DO in the treated water was found lower than the supplied water, which indicates, DO was consumed by the bacterium. The COD of the treated water was nil, which shows that the organics have been consumed by the bacterium during the denitrification process. The biological reduction of nitrate-nitrogen (from 50.79 mg/L to 0.57 mg/L) was found to be lower than the tolerance limit prescribed by WHO without changing the water quality.

Differential expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cytokine mRNA in chicken lines divergent for cutaneous hypersensitivity response

Phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity is an immunocompetent trait considered an indicator of cell-mediated immune or T-cell responses. Divergent selection was performed to generate high and low lines for response to PHA-P. Extreme-responder birds of the F2 generation in each line were used to study possible differences in macrophage activity and the associated functional genes. To evaluate macrophage activity, nitric oxide (NO) was estimated both systemically in serum and in in vitro monocyte culture. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR was used to detect the differential mRNA expression patterns of iNOS and MIP-1beta in monocyte culture, whereas T(H)1 cytokines (IL-2 and IFN-gamma) were studied in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at different time intervals after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induction. The high line showed strong systemic, as well as in vitro NO production, compared to the low line, upon stimulation with NDV and LPS, similar to early and high iNOS mRNA expression. Following the pattern of iNOS gene expression, an early strong expression of cytokines with powerful iNOS-inducing action, such as IFN-gamma and the chemokine MIP-1beta, was observed in the high line. In contrast, for response to PHA-P, low expression of IL-2 was observed in the high compared to the low line. In conclusion, the study revealed that divergent selection for response to PHA-P resulted in a divergent effect on T(H)1 cell activity, resulting in altered macrophage function in chickens. Selection, based on response to PHA-P, could lead to more resistant birds or birds with an enhanced immune response.

The effect of carbon as an energy source for biological denitrification through Pseudomonas stutzeri

The biological denitrification processes possess many advantages in comparison to other denitrification processes. The present study was undertaken to observe the effect of quantity of carbon on biological denitrification with Pseudomonas stutzeri at different C/N ratios. The results obtained in the present investigations show that the pH and alkalinity of the effluent increased with increase in C/N ratio due to alkalinity generated during denitrification. The COD of the influent was increased with increase in C/N ratio. The effluent COD was nil under pseudo-steady state condition up to the C/N ratio of 2.5. Above this C/N ratio, the organics started entering in the treated water. The maximum feasible economic reduction of NO(3-)N from 51.6 mg/l to 1.2 mg/l occurred at C/N ratio of 2.5 and the obtained concentration of NO(3-)N was found to be lower than the tolerance limit (10 mg/l) prescribed by the WHO. The present work provides a feasible approach for a more efficient NO(3-)N removal process.

Biologically relevant tetraazamacrocyclic complexes of manganese: synthetic, spectral, antimicrobial, antifertility and antiinflammatory approach

The testicular sperm density, sperm morphology, sperm motility, density of cauda epididymis spermatozoa and fertility in mating trials and biochemical parameters of reproductive organs have been examined and discussed for [Mn(N(4)MacL(n))(NO(3))(2)] (where N(4)MacL(n) represents the tetraazamacrocyclic ligand molecule with n=1-4) type of complexes. An attempt also has been made to correlate the structural aspects of the compounds with their anti-inflammatory activity. The 14-18 membered tetraamide macrocyclic ligands N(4)L(1)-N(4)L(4) used during these investigations have been prepared by the condensation of 1,2-diaminoethane or 1,3-diaminopropane with malonic or succinic acid in the presence of condensing reagents, dicyclohexylcarbodiimide and 4-dimethylaminopyridine. On reduction, these macrocyclic ligands give a new series of tetraazamacrocyles [N(4)MacL(n)] and their complexes with manganese(II) nitrate. The ligands and their complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, molecular weight determinations, infrared, electronic, mass and X-ray structural analyses. An octahedral geometry for these complexes has been confirmed by spectral studies. On the basis of the chemical composition, the representation of the complexes as [Mn(N(4)MacL(n))(NO(3))(2)] has been established. The ligands and their complexes have been screened in vitro against a number of pathogenic fungi and bacteria to assess their growth inhibiting potential.

Antifertility, antibacterial, antifungal and percent disease incidence aspects of macrocyclic complexes of manganese(II)

Macrocyclic complexes of Mn(II) were synthesized by template condensation using 2,6-diaminopyridine and diethylenetriamine with malonic, succinic, glutaric and adipic acids. The reaction proceeded smoothly to completion. These 16- to 24-membered N(6), but behaving as tetradentate, macrocyclic complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, molecular weight determinations, infrared, electronic, mass and X-ray spectral analyses. The elemental analyses are consistent with the formation of complexes [Mn(N(6)L(n))Cl(2)]. All the complexes are stable and monomeric in nature, as indicated by the molecular weight determinations. The spectral studies confirmed the proposed framework of the new macrocyclic complexes and indicated an octahedral geometry around the central metal atom. The complexes were screened in vitro against a number of pathogenic fungi and bacteria to assess their growth-inhibiting potential. The testicular sperm density, sperm morphology, sperm motility, density of cauda epididymis, spermatozoa and fertility in mating trials and the biochemical parameters of the reproductive organs of the rat were examined and are discussed.

Synthesis and pharmacological studies of some 2-t-amino and 2,3-di-t-amino substituted 1,4-naphthoquinones and related compounds

Series of 2-t-amino and 2,3-di-t-amino substituted-1,4-naphthoquinones have been synthesised from corresponding 1,4-naphthoquinones by reaction with secondary amines. The compounds have been evaluated for their broad spectrum antimicrobial, antiviral and anticancer activity. In the preliminary screening results 8a and 9a have shown profile of an antimicrobial agent.

Within- and between-strain genetic variability in White Leghorn population detected through RAPD markers

1. Five White Leghorn (WLH) strains, namely G, H, I, J and C, differing in selection history, were screened for randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) polymorphism using 50 random decamer primers. 2. Only 12 primers detected polymorphism between the strains. Out of 96 bands scored using these primers, only 21 (21.9%) were found to be polymorphic. 3. Strains differed considerably for within-population genetic similarity, estimated either by band sharing (WS=0.836 to 0.968) or band frequency (WF=0.820 to 0.969). 4. Between-strain genetic similarity estimates, based on band sharing (BS) as well as on band frequency (BF) ranged from 0.756 to 0.958 and from 0.830 to 0.996, respectively. Strains C and H were most closely related to each other, while J appeared to be more distant from other strains. 5. The between-strain genetic distance estimates also revealed similar trends. 6. A phylogenetic tree, derived using Nei's coefficient of similarity revealed similar relationships between the WLH strains.

Effect of naked neck gene (NA) and frizzle gene (F) on immunocompetence in chickens

1. A total of 98 birds belonging to 4 genetic groups from two specialised populations--heterozygous naked neck (NA*NA/NA*N) and normally feathered (NA*N/NA*N) from one specialised population and heterozygous frizzle (F*F/F*N) and normally feathered (F*N/F*N) from another specialised population--were evaluated for general immunocompetence by assessing antibody response to SRBC, haemolytic complement level in the serum, in-vivo cell mediated immune (CMI) response to Concanavalin-A (Con-A) and a phagocytic index at 10-12 weeks of age. 2. The naked neck gene did not seem to influence the antibody response to SRBC, CMI to Con-A or the phagocytic index. However, significantly higher haemolytic complement level in serum was observed in birds carrying a copy of the NA mutation as compared to the normally feathered birds. 3. Similar trends were observed for the frizzle gene.

Genetic diversity among chicken breeds estimated through randomly amplified polymorphic DNA

The randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to detect polymorphism among five breeds of chicken i.e. White Leghorn and Rhodes Island Red (selected for part period egg production and egg mass respectively), Red Cornish and White Plymouth Rock (selected for early body weights) and Kadaknath (native breed). Twelve of the fifty random primers screened yielded distinct polymorphic RAPD profiles. Of the total 96 fragments amplified, about 25% showed polymorphism. Using the RAPD data matrix, the within population and between population genetic similarity was estimated. The selected improved breeds showed higher within population genetic similarity in comparison to the native breed. The two meat type breeds showed a high level of genetic similarity between themselves. The White Leghorn breed showed a low genetic similarity with other breeds. The native breed showed highest similarity with Rhodes Island Red. The dendogram was constructed to show phylogenetic relationship among these breeds. As expected, the genetic distances were lowest within similar type breeds and were highest between dissimilar type breeds. The results indicated the effectiveness of RAPD in detecting polymorphism between chicken populations and their applicability in population studies and establishing genetic relationships among the chicken populations.

Bilateral craniotomies for blunt head trauma

Development of delayed or recurrent intracranial hematomas requiring reexploration or a secondary craniotomy is well known. Patients with bilateral pathology requiring bilateral craniotomies as the initial emergency operative intervention, however, are uncommon. The lack of available literature and the large volume of head trauma seen at our institution prompted us to analyze the retrospective data on blunt head injury requiring bilateral craniotomies. Twenty patients underwent bilateral craniotomies at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center between January 1986 and June 1994. Ages ranged from 18 to 85 years. Mechanism of injury included motor vehicle crash (n = 4), pedestrian hit by automobile (n = 4), assault (n = 8), fall from height (n = 3), and unknown (n = 1). Epidural hematomas, acute subdural hematomas, contusions, and intracerebral hematomas were seen in varying combinations. The preoperative Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ranged from 4 to 14, with a mean of 8.8 (+/-0.82 SE). Sixteen of the 20 patients survived and were discharged from the hospital. The survivors' Rancho Los Amigos Scale score on discharge ranged from 2 to 8, with a mean of 6.1 (+/-0.45 SE). A Fisher's exact test was performed to compare the outcome between the patients with mild (GCS score 13-15) to moderate (GCS score 9-12) head injury and those with severe (GCS score 4-8) head injury. It showed a statistically higher frequency of death in the severe category (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the outcome of patients with bilateral pathology requiring emergency bilateral craniotomy at initial treatment correlated well with their GCS scores at initial presentation.

Gottron's papules with raised CPK level without other manifestations of dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis without myositis has been reported rarely and has been given several names such as dermatomyositis sine myositis and amyopathic dermatomyositis. We report a 19-year-old male patient with Gottron's papules and raised CPK level. The patient has been followed for 10 months and has not developed other features of myositis.

Unilateral darier's disease

Various variations of Darier's disease have been mentioned in the literature. Here we describe a young male with unilateral involvement with clinical and histopathological features typical of Darier's disease.

Psoriasis in identical twins: simultaneous occurrence on same sites

A pair of 12-year-old identical male twins presented to us with dull erythematous plaques with coarse scaling and deep fissuring over soles of both feet starting simultaneously 18 months ago. The diagnosis of psoriasis was confirmed by histopathological examination of the biopsy specimen.

Numerous giant mollusca contagiosa and kaposi's sarcomas with HIV disease

A 50-year old man with a history of multiple contacts with commercial sex workers and two episodes of blood transfusions in Bombay, presented with giant mollusca contagiosa, Kaposi's sarcomas and refractory pulmonary tuberculosis. Patient was confirmed to be infected with HIV by ELISA and Western blot method.

Triorganosilicon (IV) compounds: synthesis, structural study, and biological activity

A few coordination compounds of silicon (IV) have been synthesized by the interaction of trimethyl- and triphenyl-chlorosilane with nitrogen-sulphur donor ligands. These compounds are monomeric, as indicated by molecular weight determination, and they behave as nonelectrolytes in dry DMF. From the electronic, infrared, 1H, and 13C NMR spectral results, it has been concluded that in these compounds, silicon is penta-coordinated in a trigonal bipyramidal environment. An assessment of biological activity of these compounds has shown that some of them are very active against P. mirabilis and others against S. viridans bacteria, while all of them show good fungicidal action against F. oxysporum, A. alternata, and A. niger.

Unsymmetrical borole complexes as biocides: synthetic, structural and biological aspects

Triisopropoxyborane on treatment with catechol in equimolar ratio in excess of benzene affords the formation of 2-isopropoxybenzo-1,3-dioxa-2-borole [OC6H4OB(OPri)]. The interaction of [OC6H4OB(OPri)] with benzothiazolines, prepared by the condensation of [1-(2-thienyl)ethanone], [1-(2-pyridinyl)ethanone], [1-(2-furanyl)ethanone], and [1-(2-naphthenyl)ethanone] with 2-mercaptoaniline, yields complexes that have B--O, B--S, and B<--N bonds. The unsymmetrical borole complexes were subjected to microestimations and spectral analyses comprised of UV, IR, proton-1, boron-11, and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance studies. The spectral studies point to a tetracoordinated environment around boron because the stereochemically active lone pair is also included in the coordination sphere. X-ray powder diffraction of a representative complex also has been carried out. In the quest for better fungicides and bactericides, studies were conducted to assess the growth-inhibiting potential of the synthesized complexes along with the ligands against various fungal and bacterial strains. The studies demonstrate that the concentrations reach levels that are sufficient to inhibit and kill the pathogens. Furthermore, the results achieved from biological activity also have been compared with the conventional fungicide, Bavistin, and conventional bactericide, Streptomycin.

Primary ectopic intramuscular meningioma of the thigh

A case of a primary ectopic intramuscular meningioma of the thigh in a 20-year-old male patient is presented. The possible histogenesis of primary ectopic meningiomas is summarized.