Cross-population genetic analysis revealed genetic variation and selection in the Ovar-DRB1 gene of Indian sheep breeds

In sheep, MHC variability is studied widely to explore disease association. The aim of the current study was to explore the genetic diversity of Ovar-DRB diversity across sheep breeds of India. Here, Ovar-DRB1 locus was studied across 20 sheep breeds. DRB1 was amplified (301 bp) and sequenced using a PCR-sequence-based typing approach. Results revealed a high degree of heterozygosity across breeds (mean: 73.99%). Overall mean distance for DRB1 was highest in Sangamneri (0.18) and lowest in Madgyal sheep (0.10). There was a higher rate of transition, across breeds. Further, 39 alleles were isolated in different breeds, out of which 10 were new. To allow easy access and use of the immune-polymorphic database, an online database management system was launched (http://www.mhcdbms.in/). Nucleotide content across breeds for the DRB1 region revealed the richness of GC content (59.26%). Wu-Kabat index revealed vast genetic variation across peptide binding sites (PBS) of DRB1. Residues 6, 66, 69, 52, and 81, were polymorphic showing utility for antigen presentation. All breeds were under positive selection for DRB1 locus (dN > dS). Study revealed the importance of DRB locus diversity for beta chain specifically at PBS across sheep breeds of the Indian subcontinent and presented evidence of positive selection for DRB owing to its evolutionary significance.

Comparison of cardiac autonomic function across complete glycaemic spectrum

OBJECTIVES

Autonomic imbalance is attributed as key mechanism altering metabolic regulation in diabetes mellitus. In view of controversial reports on autonomic function in FDRD and prediabetes, we aimed to assess and compare the autonomic function across the complete glycaemic spectrum in Indian population.

METHODS

Short term heart rate variability and cardiac autonomic reactivity tests - blood pressure and heart rate response to orthostatic tolerance and deep breathing exercise, and diastolic response to isometric handgrip exercise were recorded in normoglycemic apparently healthy individual, normoglycemic first degree relatives of diabetes, prediabetes and diabetes individuals.

RESULTS

Resting heart rate is significantly higher in FDRD, prediabetes and diabetes as compared to controls (control < FDRD = prediabetes = diabetes). Total power, LF power (control < FDRD < prediabetes = diabetes) and HF power (control < FDRD < prediabetes < diabetes) decreased along the glycaemic spectrum. Time-domain variables of HRV (SDNN, RMSSD, NN50, pNN50) were reduced as we move along the glycaemic spectrum (control < FDRD < prediabetes = diabetes). Cardiac autonomic function reactivity parameters such as 30:15 ratio and E:I ratio are decreased in prediabetes and diabetes group as compared to control and FDRD group (control = FDRD < prediabetes = diabetes). Diastolic response to isometric hand grip increases along the glycaemic spectrum starting from FDRD (control < FDRD < prediabetes = diabetes).

CONCLUSIONS

Autonomic dysfunction is observed even in first degree relatives of diabetes. Autonomic dysfunction increases as we move along the glycaemic spectrum (control < FDRD < prediabetes < diabetes).

Effect of Incident angle on Weld Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Laser Beam Welded Nitronic -50 Austenitic Stainless Steel Joints

3 mm thick nitronic-50 stainless steel sheets were successfully butt-joined using a 2 kW fiber laser beam welding. Three weld joints were fabricated for different incident angles, namely, 70°, 80° and 90° for the other constant welding process parameters. The effect of incident angle on the weld bead geometry, microstructure evolution, and strength of the laser beam welded joints was studied in detail. The incident angle significantly affected the bead geometry and its orientation. Lowering the incident angle beyond a limit caused the beam shift near the weld root of the joint, where the bead was formed away from the joint line resulting in improper fusion and a defective weld occurred. The microstructure transformed from columnar to an equiaxed dendritic structure at the center of the weld nugget for lower incident angles. Skeletal and lathy ferrite was observed in the joints' weld zone. However, the fraction of lathy ferrite was higher at lower incident angles due to a faster cooling rate. A higher weld joint strength of 1010 MPa (97% of the base metal UTS) was achieved at an 80° incident angle, owing to the formation of more equiaxed dendritic grains and the absence of the secondary phases. All of the tensile test samples showed evidence of ductile failure, and overall, an acceptable level of elongation was achieved.

Effect of 4-Week Heartfulness Meditation on Stress Scores, Sleep Quality, and Oxidative and Inflammatory Biochemical Parameters in COVID-19 Patients after Completion of Standard Treatment - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Context

COVID-19-affected patients showed increased stress, impaired sleep quality, altered complete blood count, and increased inflammatory and oxidative parameters. Yoga is an add-on nonpharmacological treatment that is established to normalize the abovementioned parameters. Heartfulness meditation is a form of Raja yoga.

Aims

The present study aimed to study the effects of 4 weeks of heartfulness meditation on the abovementioned parameters in COVID-19 patients following treatment completion.

Settings and Design

The present study was a randomized controlled trial carried out in the Department of Physiology, AIIMS, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh.

Subjects and Methods

Out of 50 COVID-19 treatment-completed patients recruited for the study, 25 were randomly assigned to the study group who received 4-week app-based heartfulness meditation. Other 25 patients were assigned to the control group who received app-based relaxation for 4 weeks. Perceived stress score, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire, baseline cardiovascular parameters, complete blood count, serum cortisol, inflammatory parameters, oxidative stress parameters, and antioxidant parameters were assessed before and after 4 weeks of intervention in both the groups. The outcome assessor was blinded in the present study.

Statistical Analysis Used

The mean difference between the two groups was tested using the Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney U-test based on data distribution. Effect of intervention was analyzed using paired Student's t-test for dependent samples test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test based on data distribution.

Results

The groups were comparable before intervention for all the variables. After 4 weeks of intervention, we observed a significant decrease in stress, circulating cortisol, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress biomarker in both the groups. Further, we observed improved sleep quality and antioxidant biomarkers in both the groups. These beneficial alterations following intervention were high in the study group compared to the control group.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that app-based heartfulness meditation/relaxation can be used as a nonpharmacological adjuvant to hasten the recovery process in patients who have completed the COVID-19 treatment protocol. Beneficial effects in subjects practicing heartfulness meditation were more than that observed in subjects practicing relaxation.

Assessment of vascular function in complete glycaemic spectrum

Purpose: The present study was conceived to delineate the point of vascular dysfunction along the glycemic spectrum (normoglycemic individuals with no family history of diabetes, normoglycemic individuals with family history of diabetes, prediabetic individuals, and diabetic individuals).Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional comparative study, we enrolled 252 participants of both gender in the age group of 30-50 years. They were classified based on their family history of diabetes and glycemic status into four groups along the glycemic spectrum as mentioned above. We measured flow-mediated dilation (FMD) from brachial artery and vascular function biomarkers such as enthothelin-1 (ET-1), von Willbrand Factor (vWF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) to assess the vascular function. The comparison of data between groups were done using One Way ANOVA/Kruskal-Wallis followed by post-hoc analysis using LSD/Mann-Whitney U Test depending on the normality of the data. Spearman correlation was done between vascular function and plasma glucose levels to identify its relationship. Linear regression was carried out to identify the factors influencing the FMD across the glycemic spectrum.Results: We observed that vascular function negatively correlated with blood glucose levels. However, endothelin-1 and vWF derangement was there even in normoglycemic first degree relatives of diabetes (FDRD) and the derangement increased in prediabetes and diabetes. Physiological dysfunction in terms of decreased flow-mediated dilation starts from prediabetes only. VEGF derangement is found only in diabetic individuals.Conclusion: Vascular dysfunction is found even in normoglycemic FDRD and the derangement increased and compounded with the advancement of disease.

Impact of the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education (DICE) project on length of stay and mortality

AIM

To determine whether the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education (DICE) programme, a whole-systems approach to managing inpatient diabetes, reduces length of stay, in-hospital mortality and readmissions.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education initiatives included identification of all diabetes admissions, a novel DICE care-pathway, an online system for prioritizing referrals, use of web-linked glucose meters, an enhanced diabetes team, and novel diabetes training for doctors. Patient administration system data were extracted for people admitted to Ipswich Hospital from January 2008 to June 2016. Logistic regression was used to compare binary outcomes (mortality, 30-day readmissions) 6 months before and after the intervention; generalized estimating equations were used to compare lengths of stay. Interrupted time series analysis was performed over the full 7.5-year period to account for secular trends.

RESULTS

Before-and-after analysis revealed a significant reduction in lengths of stay for people with and without diabetes: relative ratios 0.89 (95% CI 0.83, 0.97) and 0.93 (95% CI 0.90, 0.96), respectively; however, in interrupted time series analysis the change in long-term trend for length of stay following the intervention was significant only for people with diabetes (P=0.017 vs P=0.48). Odds ratios for mortality were 0.63 (0.48, 0.82) and 0.81 (0.70, 0.93) in people with and without diabetes, respectively; however, the change in trend was not significant in people with diabetes, while there was an apparent increase in those without diabetes. There was no significant change in 30-day readmissions, but interrupted time series analysis showed a rising trend in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The DICE programme was associated with a shorter length of stay in inpatients with diabetes beyond that observed in people without diabetes.

Infections among Contacts of Patients with Nipah Virus, India

We conducted a serosurvey of 155 healthcare workers and 124 household and community members who had close contact with 18 patients who had laboratory-confirmed Nipah virus infections in Kerala, India. We detected 3 subclinical infections; 2 persons had IgM and IgG and 1 only IgM against Nipah virus.

Comparison of cognitive auditory event related potentials and executive functions in adolescent athletes and non-athletes - A cross sectional study

There is strong evidence for the positive physical health outcomes of physical conditioning (athletic training. But there is a dearth of data on the impact of exercise on cognition, particularly in the adolescent age group. Further, most of the studies done on this topic are mainly acute in nature, and few that have seen long term effect of exercise have very rarely used objective measures such as event-related potentials. Hence, the present study was conceived to compare cognition in athletes (individual who have undergone long term physical activity) and non-athletes. We designed a cross-sectional comparative study involving apparently healthy volunteer boys in the age group of 10-19 years-non-athletes (n = 30) and athletes (n = 30). Paper pencil tests such as letter cancellation test, auditory and visual recognition reaction time, trail making test (A and B) were recorded along with auditory event-related potentials (N100, P200, N200, and P300). Data were analyzed using an unpaired t-test and Mann-Whitney U test according to the data distribution. Athletes completed letter cancellation task and trail making test faster than non-athletes. Athletes visual and auditory reaction time were lesser. Athletes had reduced latency and higher amplitude of auditory event-related potentials (N100, P200, N200, and P300) as compared to non-athletes. Hence, we conclude that athletic level physical training has a beneficial role in the executive cognitive domain among adolescents.

Comparison of Baroreflex Sensitivity and Cardiac Autonomic Function Between Adolescent Athlete and Non-athlete Boys - A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: It is well known that regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, and higher baroreflex sensitivity and heart rate variability are associated with cardiovascular health. Adolescence is the age when an individual’s behavior is easily modified; early intervention at this stage in terms of physical conditioning or training prevents future cardiovascular risk. Hence, we conceived the present study to assess and compare the baroreflex sensitivity and autonomic function between adolescent athletes and non-athletes.

Methods: We recruited school going athletes (n = 30) and non-athlete boys (n = 30) in the 10–19 age group after obtaining their assent and consent from their parents. We assessed height, weight, heart rate, blood pressure, baroreflex sensitivity, and cardiac autonomic function. Comparison between groups was made using the unpaired t-test for height, weight, body mass index, heart rate, blood pressure, and baroreflex sensitivity and using Mann-Whitney U test for cardiac autonomic function parameters.

Results: There was a trend for higher baroreflex sensitivity in athletes. Heart rate variability (total power and SDNN) was higher in athletes. The parasympathetic tone was higher in terms of higher RMSSD, and higher HF power. Parasympathetic reactivity was higher in athletes in terms of higher 30:15 ratio and EI ratio.

Conclusion: Athletic level physical conditioning has a positive influence on baroreflex function and autonomic function that may prove beneficial to the adolescents’ cardiovascular health.

Inhibition of adhesion-specific genes by Solidago virgaurea extract causes loss of Candida albicans biofilm integrity

AIMS

Candida albicans biofilms are commonly associated with severe oral infections. We previously discovered that a crude extract from the Solidago virgaurea plant (SV extract) was a potent inhibitor of C. albicans biofilm formation. Here, we further investigate the mechanisms underlying C. albicans biofilm inhibition by the SV extract.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The SV extract was shown to inhibit laboratory and clinical C. albicans isolates adherence and hyphal transition on inert support and epithelial human cells, without affecting viability and growth of planktonic yeasts. Interestingly, RT-PCR-based experiments demonstrated that some key genes involved in adhesion and hyphal morphological switch (e.g. Hwp1p, Ece1p, Als3p) were strongly down-regulated by the SV extract. Moreover, antimicrobial synergy testing (checkerboard assay) demonstrated that antifungal effects of miconazole, nystatin or a common antiseptic mouthwash were synergistically improved when used in combination with the SV extract.

CONCLUSIONS

The SV extract prevents C. albicans biofilm formation through direct inhibition of key adherence and hyphae-associated genes.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Biofilm is considered as a key virulence factor of C. albicans infection. Our discovery of an inhibitor specifically acting on genes involved in biofilm formation paves the way for the future development of a new class of antifungal product.

Assessment of autonomic functions and its association with telomerase level, oxidative stress and inflammation in complete glycemic spectrum- an exploratory study

AIMS

In the present study we intended to study autonomic functions and its association with telomerase level, oxidative stress and inflammation in complete glycemic spectrum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Age, gender and BMI matched 28 subjects in the age group of 25-50 years were recruited across complete glycemic spectrum as follows: 1) Normoglycemics (controls) 2) Prediabetics and 3) Frank diabetics. We assessed heart rate variability, cardiac autonomic function, lipid profile, adiponectin, malondialdehyde and telomerase level.

RESULTS

Time domain parameters and frequency domain parameters were significantly lower, and LFnu and LF/HF ratio were significantly higher in prediabetes and diabetes than control. Serum Adiponectin and HDL levels were significantly lower in diabetes than prediabetes and control, and prediabetes had significantly lower HDL than controls. Other lipid profile parameters (TC, TG, VLDL, LDL, non-HDL & derived lipid parameters were significantly higher in diabetes than prediabetes and control and prediabetes had significantly higher values than controls. MDA levels were significantly higher and TAS was significantly lower in diabetics than prediabetics and control group. Telomerase level was significantly higher in diabetes as compared to prediabetes and control. Telomerase had significantly negative correlation with SDNN, HF, TP, HDL and adiponectin, and significant positive correlation with MDA, fasting insulin, HOMA IR, TC, and AIP.

CONCLUSION

Oxidative damage, inflammation and autonomic dysregulation may be involved in Telomere/Telomerase dysregulation in diabetes and telomerase levels can be used as a cardio-metabolic marker of diabetes.

Comparison of anthropometric, cardiovascular, autonomic, baroreflex sensitivity, aerobic fitness, inflammatory markers and oxidative stress parameters between first degree relatives of diabetes and controls

AIM

We aimed at assessing cardiovascular risk of first degree relatives of diabetes (FDRD).

METHODS

A cross sectional study involving 90 apparently healthy normoglycemic volunteers aged between 15 and 50 years (45 FDRD and 45 FDRs of non-diabetics). We measured anthropometric parameters, baroreflex sensitivity, heart rate variability, cardiac autonomic function tests, and aerobic capacity, fasting blood glucose and insulin, lipid profile, inflammatory markers, nitric oxide and oxidative stress markers.

RESULTS

FDRD had significantly higher hip circumference and BF%. Blood pressure, total peripheral resistance and cardiac output were comparable. FDRD had higher HR and rate pressure product. There were no significant differences in cardio-respiratory fitness (VO2max) and physical activity level. Time and Frequency domain parameters were comparable except for reduced NN50 and total power. Baroreflex sensitivity, 30:15 ratio and E: I ratio were significantly less in FDRD. Fasting glucose was comparable. Fasting Insulin, HOMA IR, HOMA %B and HOMA AD were higher while HOMA %S and QUICKI index were lower in FDRD. Lipid profile or lipid derived parameters were comparable except for higher non-HDLc in FDRD. Adiponectin was lower while Leptin and Leptin/apidonectin ratio was higher in FDRD. IL-6, hsCRP, TNF- alpha and MDA were significantly higher in FDRD, while TAS and nitric oxide were significantly lower in FDRD.

CONCLUSION

Higher body fat percentage, with insulin resistance, deranged cardiac autonomic function, higher oxidative stress and inflammation, lower adiponectin and nitric oxide levels places FDRD at higher cardiovascular risk and necessitates early lifestyle modification/intervention.

Assessment of heart rate variability for different somatotype category among adolescents

Background Somatotype is a quantified expression of the morphological conformation of a person in terms of three-numeral rating each representing one component; fat (endomorphy), muscle mass (mesomorphy) and bone length (ectomorphy) in the same order. Certain somatotypes are more prone to develop the particular disease. Obesity and overweight are already epidemic among Indian adolescents and are increasing at an alarming rate, and obesity is linked to cardiovascular (CV) risk in this age group. Identifying the heart rate variability (HRV) is an established non-invasive test to identify the CV risk. The objective of this study is to record the HRV data for each somatotype category and to compare the HRV data among these somatotype categories in adolescents. Methods The volunteer adolescents in the age group of 12-17 years were classified into a different somatotyping categories based on the Heath Carter somatotyping method. The short-term HRV was recorded in all the subjects using wireless BioHarness 3.0. Results Based on the time domain and frequency domain parameters, the parasympathetic activity showed decreasing order as follows: central>ectomorphy>mesomorphy>endomorphy, whereas sympathetic activity showed increasing order as follows: central<ectomorphy<mesomorphy<endomorphy in both boys and girls. Girls have higher parasympathetic activity and lesser sympathetic activity than boys in ectomorphy and mesomorphy. In the central somatotype and endomorphy categories, genders were comparable. Conclusion Our study suggests that endomorphy and mesomorphy have poorer autonomic tone when compared to other somatotype categories.

Comparison of structured and unstructured physical activity training on predicted VO2max and heart rate variability in adolescents - a randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

Physical inactivity contributes to many health issues. The WHO-recommended physical activity for adolescents encompasses aerobic, resistance, and bone strengthening exercises aimed at achieving health-related physical fitness. Heart rate variability (HRV) and maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) are considered as noninvasive measures of cardiovascular health. The objective of this study is to compare the effect of structured and unstructured physical training on maximal aerobic capacity and HRV among adolescents.

METHODS

We designed a single blinded, parallel, randomized active-controlled trial (Registration No. CTRI/2013/08/003897) to compare the physiological effects of 6 months of globally recommended structured physical activity (SPA), with that of unstructured physical activity (USPA) in healthy school-going adolescents. We recruited 439 healthy student volunteers (boys: 250, girls: 189) in the age group of 12-17 years. Randomization across the groups was done using age and gender stratified randomization method, and the participants were divided into two groups: SPA (n=219, boys: 117, girls: 102) and USPA (n=220, boys: 119, girls: 101). Depending on their training status and gender the participants in both SPA and USPA groups were further subdivided into the following four sub-groups: SPA athlete boys (n=22) and girls (n=17), SPA nonathlete boys (n=95) and girls (n=85), USPA athlete boys (n=23) and girls (n=17), and USPA nonathlete boys (n=96) and girls (n=84).

RESULTS

We recorded HRV, body fat%, and VO2 max using Rockport Walk Fitness test before and after the intervention. Maximum aerobic capacity and heart rate variability increased significantly while heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and body fat percentage decreased significantly after both SPA and USPA intervention. However, the improvement was more in SPA as compared to USPA.

CONCLUSIONS

SPA is more beneficial for improving cardiorespiratory fitness, HRV, and reducing body fat percentage in terms of magnitude than USPA in adolescent individuals irrespective of their gender and sports activities.

Caralluma fimbriata and metformin protection of rat pancreas from high fat diet induced oxidative stress

A high fat diet promotes oxidative stress, which contributes to the development of pancreatic fibrosis. We compared the protective effects of a hydroalcoholic extract of Caralluma fimbriata (CFE) to metformin (Met) in the pancreas of Wistar rats fed a high fat diet. The experimental animals were divided into five groups: control (C), treated with CFE (C + CFE), treated with high fat diet (HFD), high fat diet treated with CFE (HFD + CFE), and high fat diet treated with metformin (Met) (HFD + Met). CFE was administered orally to groups C + CFE and HFD + CFE rats for 90 days. Met was given to the HFD + Met group. After 90 days, oxidative stress markers in the pancreas including reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid oxidation (LO), protein oxidation (PO), and activities of antioxidant and polyol pathway enzymes, aldose reductase (AR) and sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) were assayed and tissue histology was examined. Establishment of oxidative stress in high fat diet fed rats was verified by elevated LO and PO, decreased GSH, decreased activities of antioxidants and increased activities of polyol pathway enzymes. Oxidative stress was prevented in HFD + CFE and HFD + Met groups. Group C + CFE exhibited improved antioxidant status compared to group C. CFE treatment prevented high fat diet induced acinar cell degeneration, necrosis, edema and hemorrhage. CFE could be used as adjuvant therapy for preventing or managing high fat diet induced pancreatic damage.

Strain-specific variation in plant growth promoting volatile organic compounds production by five different Pseudomonas spp. as confirmed by response of Vigna radiata seedlings

AIM

Analysis of a blend of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by Pseudomonas spp. with growth-promoting effect in Vigna radiata seedlings.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Plant growth-promoting activity of VOCs produced by five different Pseudomonas spp. was investigated by I-plate technique. VOCs produced by different organisms were extracted by various solvents (methanol, ethyl acetate, hexane and butanol) and were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis. The major VOCs identified were undecane, nonadecane, hexacosane, tetradecane, heptacosane, pentadecane, dodecane and tetratetracontane. The cultural conditions for the production of VOCs with plant growth enhancement effect were optimized and further confirmed using pure pentadecane as a candidate VOC.

CONCLUSIONS

The study provides insight into plant beneficial effect of VOCs produced by Pseudomonas spp. Remarkable modulation in the production of VOCs with plant growth-promoting effect by rhizobacteria was found to be dependent on the bacterial strain and its concentration.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The study describes the requirement to consider bacterial VOC production also for preparing plant probiotic formulations. As VOCs are least considered for preparation of commercial plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial strain formulation, the results of the study is highly significant.

Polymorphism of growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene in Nilagiri sheep

The allelic variation in the regulatory sequence of growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene influences the growth traits of sheep. A study was carried out to find out the polymorphisms associated with exon 10 of GHR gene and its association with growth traits of Nilagiri sheep. The blood samples were collected from Nilagiri sheep (n = 103) reared at Sheep Breeding Research Station, Sandynallah, Tamil Nadu, India. DNA was isolated using the phenol-chloroform extraction procedure and eight samples having amplified product of part of exon 10 (895 bp) sequenced. The results indicated transitions of nucleotide G>A at loci G177624A and G177878A. The genotyping frequencies estimated using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-PCR for GG, GA and AA were 0.262, 0.544 and 0.194, and 0.349, 0.505 and 0.146, respectively. The estimated allele frequencies of G and A nucleotides were 0.5340 and 0.4660, and 0.6015 and 0.3985, respectively, at loci G177624A and G177878A. The effects of both the mutations on growth-related traits viz., birth, weaning (3 months) 6, 9 and 12 months weight in Nilagiri sheep were found to be non-significant. This can be a novel approach to assess growth of sheep using the mutation in GHR gene. Thus, this approach can be useful for further investigation as a molecular marker associated with genetic improvement.

Impact on prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in school children administered with seven annual rounds of diethyl carbamazine (DEC) with albendazole

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

One third of the world's population is infected with one or more of the most common soil-transmitted helminths (STH). Albendazole (ALB) is being administered with diethyl carbamazine (DEC) in filariasis endemic areas to eliminate lymphatic filariasis (LF) and helminth infections. In this study, the cumulative impact of seven annual rounds of mass drug administrations (MDA) of DEC and ALB on STH infection in school children in selected villages in southern India was determined.

METHODS

During 2001-2010, seven MDAs were implemented by the Tamil Nadu s0 tate h0 ealth d0 epartment, India. LF and STH infections were monitored in school children from 18 villages of the two treatment arms (viz, DEC alone and DEC+ALB). Kato-Katz cellophane quantitative thick smear technique was employed to estimate STH infections at three weeks, six months and one year post MDA.

RESULTS

Prior to treatment, an overall STH prevalence was 60 per cent. After each MDA, infection markedly reduced at three weeks post-treatment in both the arms. The prevalence increased at six months period, which was maintained up to one year. After seven rounds of MDA, the infection reduced from 60.44 to 12.48 per cent in DEC+ALB arm; while the reduction was negligible in DEC alone arm (58.77 to 52.70%).

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS

Seven rounds of MDA with DEC+ALB reduced the infection load significantly, and further sustained low level of infection for 10 years. However, complete parasite elimination could not be achieved. To curtail STH infection in the community, MDA should be regularized and environmental sanitation measures need to be improved by effective community-based campaigns.

Biodecolorization and Bioremediation of Denim Industrial Wastewater by Adapted Bacterial Consortium Immobilized on Inert Polyurethane Foam (PUF) Matrix: A First Approach with Biobarrier Model

The present experiments were studied on bioremediation of denim industry wastewater by using polyurethane foam (PU foam) immobilized bacterial cells. About 30 indigenous adapted bacterial strains were isolated from denim textile effluent out of which only four isolates were found to be efficient against crude indigo carmine degradation using broth decolorization method. The selected bacterial strains were identified as Actinomyces sp., (PK 07), Pseudomonas sp., (PK 18), Stenotrophomonas sp., (PK 23) and Staphylococcus sp., (PK 28) based on microscopic and biochemical characteristics. The bacterial immobilized cells have the highest number of viable cells (PK07, PK18, PK23 and PK28 appeared to be 1 × 108, 1 × 109, 1 × 106 and 1 × 107 CFU/ml respectively) and maximum attachment efficiency of 92% on PU foam. The complete degradation using a consortium of PU foam immobilized cells was achieved at pH 6, 27°C, 100% of substrate concentration and allowed to develop biofilm for one day (1.5% W/V). In SEM analysis, it was found that immobilization of bacterial cells using PUF stably maintained the production of various extracellular enzymes at levels higher than achieved with suspended forms. Finally, isatin and anthranilic acid were found to be degradation products by NMR and TLC. The decolorized dye was not toxic to monkey kidney cell (HBL 100) at a concentration of 50 µl and 95% of cell viability was retained. A mathematical model that describes bacterial transport with biodegradation involves a set of coupled reaction equations with non-standard numerical approach based on the time step scheme.

Heart Rate Variability in Adolescents - Normative Data Stratified by Sex and Physical Activity

BACKGROUND

Heart rate variability (HRV) refers to the beat-to-beat fluctuations in the cardiac rhythm occurring due to modulation of the pacemaker (sinoatrial node) activity of the heart by the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system. Nowadays, cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors are increasingly occurring at a younger age (children and adolescents) and recording of HRV in them will help us to identify cardiovascular autonomic derangement earlier. However, to be used clinically, normative data has to be established in this age group considering other major factors that can influence HRV such as sex, physical activity, and BMI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Task Force of the European Society of Cardiology and the North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology has provided the standards for measurement of heart rate variability and we have followed the same. In the present study, we have described the normative data for HRV in the adolescent in the age group of 12-17 years, stratified based on sex and physical activity.

RESULTS

Data given below are expressed as median with interquartile range (Median (IQR)) in the following order: non-athlete girls, non athlete boys, athlete girls and athlete boys. Time domain indices - SDNN - 66.35 (40.78), 63.20 (36.20), 113.00 (31.40) and 94.20 (35.55); RMSSD - 69.00 (50.55), 58.70 (43.40), 94.90 (42.10) and 100.30 (47.50); NN50 - 137.50 (100.25), 116.00 (90.50), 137.00 (81.00) and 156.00 (81.50). The frequency domain indices - LF power 1015.00 (1098.75), 945.00 (831.00), 1465 (642.25), and 1211.00 (811.37); HF power - 1324.00 (1707.00), 988.00 (1426.50), 2409.00 (1387.50), and 2219.00 (1752.00); Total power - 3374.50 (3094.25), 2757.00 (2641.00), 5202.00 (2501.50) and 5273.00 (3507.50); LFnu - 45.44 (16.61), 47.63 (29.98), 38.59 (11.81) and 37.10 (11.21); HFnu - 54.56 (16.61), 52.37 (29.98), 61.41 (11.81) and 62.90 (11.21).

CONCLUSION

We have given sex and physical activity stratified HRV normative data for adolescents in the age between 12-17 years.

Biofilm formation is a risk factor for mortality in patients with Candida albicans bloodstream infection-Scotland, 2012-2013

Bloodstream infections caused by Candida species remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Biofilm formation by Candida species is an important virulence factor for disease pathogenesis. A prospective analysis of patients with Candida bloodstream infection (n = 217) in Scotland (2012–2013) was performed to assess the risk factors associated with patient mortality, in particular the impact of biofilm formation. Candida bloodstream isolates (n = 280) and clinical records for 157 patients were collected through 11 different health boards across Scotland. Biofilm formation by clinical isolates was assessed in vitro with standard biomass assays. The role of biofilm phenotype on treatment efficacy was also evaluated in vitro by treating preformed biofilms with fixed concentrations of different classes of antifungal. Available mortality data for 134 patients showed that the 30-day candidaemia case mortality rate was 41%, with predisposing factors including patient age and catheter removal. Multivariate Cox regression survival analysis for 42 patients showed a significantly higher mortality rate for Candida albicans infection than for Candida glabrata infection. Biofilm-forming ability was significantly associated with C. albicans mortality (34 patients). Finally, in vitro antifungal sensitivity testing showed that low biofilm formers and high biofilm formers were differentially affected by azoles and echinocandins, but not by polyenes. This study provides further evidence that the biofilm phenotype represents a significant clinical entity, and that isolates with this phenotype differentially respond to antifungal therapy in vitro. Collectively, these findings show that greater clinical understanding is required with respect to Candida biofilm infections, and the implications of isolate heterogeneity.

Impact of the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education (DICE) project and the DICE Care Pathway on patient outcomes and trainee doctor's knowledge and confidence

AIM

To evaluate the impact of the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education project and a comprehensive diabetes care pathway, the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education Care Pathway, on patient outcomes and on the knowledge and confidence of trainee doctors.

METHODS

The effect on patient outcomes was evaluated by comparing the National Diabetes Inpatient Audit data before (2012) and after (2013) implementing the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education project. The impact on trainee doctors was evaluated using the Modified Kirkpatrick model. Just before the project began and again 3 months later, trainee doctors were surveyed to assess their knowledge and confidence in inpatient diabetes care.

RESULTS

Patient harm was found to have been reduced significantly when National Diabetes Inpatient Audit data for 2012 and 2013 were compared. Severe hypoglycaemia decreased from 15.4 to 9.7%, medication errors from 56.9 to 21.1% and insulin errors from 31 to 7%. Across the 96 trainee doctors surveyed, the mean (sd) knowledge and confidence scores increased significantly (P < 0.001 for both) from 57.1 (16.8) and 61.8 (14.9) to 68.4 (13.3) and 74.3 (11.7), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education project and the Diabetes Inpatient Care and Education Care Pathway improved patient outcomes and the knowledge and confidence of trainee doctors in this hospital. The impact of a similar project in other hospitals needs to be evaluated.

Determinants of ERP Implementation and System Success in India

Manufacturing industries implement ERP to increase the sales and profit and reduce the legacy system issues in their organization. However, in the implementation stage itself they face lot of challenges, sometimes they even face failure in implementation. The implementing companies need lot of resources and coordination from different areas and without these resources and coordination they cannot succeed. Even though they succeed in implementation, the performance is not up to the expected level in many cases. Since many CSFs are involved in this process, the managers have to identify the CSFs and plan accordingly to achieve system success. In this case, the authors discuss the important Critical Success Factors involved in different stages of implementation of ERP. Furthermore, they have tried to study the extent of system success in the companies and also identify the influence of ERP implementation on organization effectiveness.

Bioassay guided fractionation and identification of active anti-inflammatory constituent from Delonix elata flowers using RAW 264.7 cells

CONTEXT

Delonix elata (L.) Gamble (Fabaceae) has been used in the Indian traditional medicine system to treat rheumatism and inflammation.

AIM

To assess the anti-inflammatory effect of Delonix elata flowers and to isolate the active principle.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The prompt anti-inflammatory constituent was isolated from Delonix elata flower extracts using bioassay guided fractionation in liposaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. The anti-inflammatory activity of extracts/fractions/sub-fractions/compounds (10, 25, and 50 µg/ml) was evaluated by estimating the levels of nitric oxide (NO), TNF-α, and IL-1β after 24 h of LPS induction (1 μg/ml). The isolated active compound was subjected to NMR, IR, and UV analyses for structure determination.

RESULTS

In an attempt to search for anti-inflammatory constituents, the active pure principle was isolated and crystallized as a white compound from Delonix elata flowers methanol extract. This active compound (50 µg/ml) decreased the release of inflammatory mediators levels such as NO (0.263 ± 0.03 µM), TNFα (160.20 ± 17.57 pg/ml), and IL-1β (285.79 ± 15.16 pg/ml) significantly (p < 0.05); when compared to the levels of NO (0.774 ± 0.08 µM), TNFα (501.71 ± 25.14 pg/ml), and IL-1β (712.68 ± 52.25 pg/ml) from LPS-stimulated macrophage cells. The active compound was confirmed as hesperidin with NMR, IR, and UV spectroscopy data. This is the first report of this compound from Delonix elata flowers.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the study support the traditional use of Delonix elata flowers to treat inflammation.

Azadirachta indica: A herbal panacea in dentistry - An update

Azadirachta indica commonly known as Neem, is an evergreen tree. Since time immemorial it has been used by Indian people for treatment of various diseases due to its medicinal properties. It possesses anti-bacterial, anti-cariogenic, anti-helminthic, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, astringent, anti-viral, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory activity. Nimbidin, Azadirachtin and nimbinin are active compounds present in Neem which are responsible for antibacterial activity. Neem bark is used as an active ingredient in a number of toothpastes and toothpowders. Neem bark has anti-bacterial properties, it is quite useful in dentistry for curing gingival problems and maintaining oral health in a natural way. Neem twigs are used as oral deodorant, toothache reliever and for cleaning of teeth. The objective of this article is to focus on the various aspects of Azadirachta indica in dentistry in order to provide a tool for future research.

Serious harm from inpatient hypoglycaemia: a survey of hospitals in the UK

AIM

To estimate the incidence of serious harm to inpatients with diabetes from hypoglycaemia.

METHOD

An anonymised questionnaire was e-mailed to lead organisers at the 142 acute NHS Trusts that contributed to the National Diabetes Inpatient Audit 2012. Each diabetes team was asked collectively to recall and report any serious adverse events from inpatient hypoglycaemia in the previous year. A total of 83 Trusts agreed to participate. Serious harm was defined as death, a cardiac or cerebral event or a fall resulting in permanent physical injury or fracture.

RESULTS

A total of 41 Trusts returned the survey. Of these, only 28 (68.3%) were confident that robust methods existed in their Trust to ensure all such events were reported, and only 23 (56.1%) were confident that all such events were reported to the diabetes team. Despite these reporting concerns, the retrospective nature of the survey and the reliance on recall, 12 serious adverse events were reported from nine trusts: three deaths; two cases of permanent cerebral damage; two successfully resuscitated cardiac arrests; three seizures; and two undefined events. Insulin therapy was implicated in 10 events. Importantly, three events with two deaths occurred in patients who had received insulin/dextrose to correct hyperkalaemia; only one of whom had diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

An alarming number of serious adverse events was reported: 12 serious adverse events with three deaths over a 1-year period in 41 Trusts. This may be the tip of the iceberg, considering the potential under-reporting. Robust reporting mechanisms are required to determine the full extent of this serious preventable harm.

Implication of Knowledge Transfer on Task Performance in ERP System Usage

The level of success of Information Systems (IS) implemented in various organizations depends on several factors and is better measured through process metrics than project metrics. It is believed that innovative and increased use of the system (deep structure usage) and learning lead to internalization of knowledge. This in turn ensures that IS continuance (post implementation system usage) becomes more dynamic and effective contributing to enhancement in task performance resulting in better business value. A theoretical framework has been proposed based on previous theories and observations from a case study. An approach of mixed method research using multiple case studies and an empirical survey in the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) domain has been used to validate a conceptual model. The findings use meta-inference to offer a new dimension in the area of system usage and learning which could be useful to IS practitioners and researchers.

Decline in lymphatic filariasis transmission with annual mass drug administration using DEC with and without albendazole over a 10year period in India

The National Programme for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis is underway in the endemic districts of Tamil Nadu State, South India, since 2001. Annual mass drug administration (MDA) was carried out by the state health department to all eligible individuals. The impact of MDAs on transmission parameters was evaluated in 2 revenue blocks, viz, one with DEC alone and the other with a combination of albendazole. After 10 years with 6 annual MDAs, the transmission indices reached low levels in both treatment arms, but still persisted. However, the DEC alone arm showed higher transmission rates, compared to the DEC+ALB arm. Few villages which demonstrated persistent transmission need to be targeted with an additional control measure viz, vector control, to achieve LF elimination. It is evident from the 10 year period of the study that inclusion of albendazole along with DEC has significantly reduced the transmission indices to almost nil level, as compared to DEC alone.

Studies on the Effect of EMS and Colchicine in M₁ Generation of Sesame (<i>Sesamum indicum</i> L.) Var. TMV3

Seeds of sesame (Sesamum indicum L), genotypeTMV3 were treated with various concentrations of EMS and Colchicine like 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 % and the LD50 values observed at 1.0 % of EMS and 0.6 % of Colchicine. Based on their LD50 values appreciable concentrations only selected for further study and their effects on various morphological characters such as plant height per plant, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, days to first flowering, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule and seed yield per plant (g) were measured quantitatively and the results showed that all the characters were consequently or significantly reduced when compared to control and also EMS showed more effective than colchicine.

Studies on the Effect of EMS and Colchicine in M1 Generation of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Var. TMV3

Seeds of sesame (Sesamum indicum L), genotypeTMV3 were treated with various concentrations of EMS and Colchicine like 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 % and the LD50 values observed at 1.0 % of EMS and 0.6 % of Colchicine. Based on their LD50 values appreciable concentrations only selected for further study and their effects on various morphological characters such as plant height per plant, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, days to first flowering, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule and seed yield per plant (g) were measured quantitatively and the results showed that all the characters were consequently or significantly reduced when compared to control and also EMS showed more effective than colchicine.

Phytoremediation of dye contaminated soil by Leucaena leucocephala (subabul) seed and growth assessment of Vigna radiata in the remediated soil

The present study was investigated for soil bioremediation through sababul plant biomass (Leucaena leucocephala). The soil contaminated with textile effluent was collected from Erode (chithode) area. Various physico-chemical characterizations like N, P, and K and electrical conductivity were assessed on both control and dye contaminated soils before and after remediation. Sababul (L. leucocephala) powder used as plant biomass for remediation was a tool for textile dye removal using basic synthetic dyes by column packing and eluting. The concentration of the dye eluted was compared with its original concentration of dye and were analyzed by using UV-vis spectrophotometer. Sababul plant biomass was analyzed for its physico-chemical properties and active compounds were detected by GC-MS, HPTLC and FTIR. Plant growth was assessed with green gram on the textile contaminated soil and sababul had the potential of adsorbing the dye as the contaminated soil and also check the growth of green gram.