Indole-3 acetic acid induced cardiac hypertrophy in Wistar albino rats

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is the most widely utilized plant growth regulator. Despite its extensive usage, IAA is often overlooked as an environmental pollutant. Due to its protein-binding nature, it also functions as a uremic toxin, contributing to its association with chronic kidney disease (CKD). While in vitro and epidemiological research have demonstrated this association, the precise impact of IAA on cardiovascular disease in animal models is unknown. The main objective of this study is to conduct a mechanistic analysis of the cardiotoxic effects caused by IAA using male Wistar albino rats as the experimental model. Three different concentrations of IAA (125, 250, 500 mg/kg) were administered for 28 days. The circulating IAA concentration mimicked previously observed levels in CKD patients. The administration of IAA led to a notable augmentation in heart size and heart-to-body weight ratio, indicating cardiac hypertrophy. Echocardiographic assessments supported these observations, revealing myocardial thickening. Biochemical and gene expression analyses further corroborated the cardiotoxic effects of IAA. Dyslipidemia, increased serum c-Troponin-I levels, decreased SOD and CAT levels, and elevated lipid peroxidation in cardiac tissue were identified. Moreover, increased expression of cardiac inflammatory biomarkers, including ANP, BNP, β-MHC, Col-III, TNF-α, and NF-κB, was also found in the IAA-treated animals. Histopathological analysis confirmed the cardiotoxic nature of IAA, providing additional evidence of its adverse effects on cardiovascular health. These results offer insights into the potential negative impact of IAA on cardiovascular function, and elucidating the underlying mechanisms of its cardiotoxicity.

Exploring the Efficacy of Pellitorine as an Antiparasitic Agent Against Argulus: Impacts on Antioxidant Levels and Immune Responses in Goldfish (Carassius auratus)

INTRODUCTION

Argulus spp. infestation is a significant challenge for aquaculture, currently, there are no approved medications available to efficiently manage this parasite. Consequently, mechanical removal of parasites using forceps and natural substances like herbs are being explored as alternative treatment methods. Pellitorine (PLE) is a naturally occurring compound found in several plant species. It is classified as an alkaloid and belongs to the class of compounds known as amides.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PLE in preventing Argulus spp. infestations in goldfish (Carassius auratus) and to determine the optimal dosage of PLE for the detachment of Argulus spp.

RESULTS

The findings of this study revealed that PLE enhanced the immune response of goldfish by promoting superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in Argulus-infected goldfish. Additionally, PLE induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cellular damage in the Argulus. PLE at a dosage of 5 mg/mL was able to detach 80% of the argulus from goldfish within 12 h. Therapeutic index was found to be 5.99, suggesting that PLE is the safest drug.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, our findings suggest that PLE can be a suitable and effective treatment option for preventing Argulus infestations in goldfish. The results of this study can guide the use of PLE at an optimal dosage to control Argulus infestation in goldfish.

Furan-based Chalcone Annihilates the Multi-Drug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Protects Zebra Fish Against its Infection

The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a multi-drug-resistant bacteria, is becoming a serious public health concern. This bacterium infects immunocompromised patients and has a high fatality rate. Both naturally and synthetically produced chalcones are known to have a wide array of biological activities. The antibacterial properties of synthetically produced chalcone were studied against P. aeruginosa. In vitro, study of the compound (chalcone derivative named DKO1), also known as (2E)-1-(5-methylfuran-2-yl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl) prop-2-en-1-one, had substantial antibacterial and biofilm disruptive action. DKO1 effectively shielded against P. aeruginosa-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis in zebrafish larvae. In adult zebrafish, the treatment enhanced the chances of survivability and reduced the sickness-like behaviors. Gene expression, biochemical analysis, and histopathology studies found that proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, iNOS) were down regulated; antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels increased, and histoarchitecture was restored in zebrafish. The data indicate that DKO1 is an effective antibacterial agent against P. aeruginosa demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo.

Exploring the Combined Effect of Exercise and Apigenin on Aluminium-Induced Neurotoxicity in Zebrafish

Aluminium (AL) is a strong environmental neurotoxin linked to neurodegenerative disorders. Widespread industrial use leads to its presence in water systems, causing bioaccumulation in organisms. This, in turn, results in the bioaccumulation of AL in various organisms. Several studies have highlighted the benefits of enhanced physical activity in combating neurodegenerative diseases. Meanwhile widespread presence of apigenin in aquatic environment has been largely overlooked, in terms of its potential to counter AL-induced neurotoxicity. The combined impact of exercise and apigenin in mitigating the effects of AL-induced neurotoxicity in aquatic animals remains unexplored. Hence, the objective of this study is to determine whether the combined treatment of exercise and apigenin can effectively alleviate the chronic neurotoxicity induced by AL. Zebrafish that were exposed to AL showed behaviours resembling anxiety, increased aggression, unusual swimming pattern, and memory impairment, which are typical features observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like syndrome. Combined treatment of exercise and apigenin protects zebrafish from AL-induced neurotoxicity, which was measured by improvements in memory, reduced anxiety and aggression, and increased levels of antioxidant enzymes and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Furthermore, AL exposure is associated with increased expression of genes related to neuroinflammation and AD. However, synergistic effect of exercise and apigenin counteract this effect in AL-treated zebrafish. These findings suggest that AL is involved in neurodegenerative diseases in fish, which could affect the integrity of aquatic ecosystem. Hence, there is a strong correlation between enhanced physical activity, apigenin, and the well-being of the ecosystem.

Neurobehavioral impairments from chromium exposure: Insights from a zebrafish model and drug validation

We have developed a zebrafish model to explore the alterations in neurobehaviors resulting from both acute and chronic exposure to chromium (Cr). Zebrafish exposed to half (HC group: 19.7 mg/L) and a quarter (LC group: 9.85 mg/L) of the LD50 concentration of Cr for a span of 2 weeks exhibited aberrant locomotion, heightened anxiety, cognitive impairment, and reduced aggression - hallmark traits reminiscent of an Alzheimer's Disease (AD)-like syndrome. Furthermore, zebrafish exposed to an environmentally relevant concentration of Cr (EC group: 100 μg/L) for an extended period of 9 weeks exhibited behaviors comparable to those observed in the HC group. Moreover, the study investigated the neuroprotective effects of donepezil (Don), galantamine (Gal) and resveratrol (Res) drugs in response to neurobehavioral impairments induced by Cr (VI) exposure in zebrafish. Don and Res effectively protect the zebrafish from Cr (VI)-induced anxiety, and memory impairment. Furthermore, Cr (VI) exposure induced heightened oxidative stress while simultaneously diminishing antioxidant enzyme levels. Remarkably, these effects were counteracted in the drug-treated groups. Likewise, exposure to Cr (VI) led to an increase in the expression of genes linked to AD and neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, drug treatment reversed this effect in Cr (VI)-exposed fish. The results of our study highlight the potentials of zebrafish model in demonstrating neurobehavioral impairments induced by Cr (VI), thereby paving the way for its utilization in vivo neurobehaviors investigations and pharmaceutical screening.

Toxic ties: Unraveling the complex relationship between endocrine disrupting chemicals and chronic kidney disease

Environmental pollution is inherently linked to several metabolic diseases and high mortality. The kidney is more susceptible to environmental pollutants compared to other organs as it is involved in concentrating and filtering most of these toxins. Few epidemiological studies revealed the intrinsic relationship between exposure to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and CKD development. Though EDCs have the potential to cause severe pathologies, the specific molecular mechanisms by which they accelerate the progression of CKD remain elusive. In particular, our understanding of how pollutants affect the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) through the gut-kidney axis is currently limited. EDCs modulate the composition and function of the gut microbial community and favor the colonization of harmful gut pathogens. This alteration leads to an overproduction of uremic toxin and membrane vesicles. These vesicles carry several inflammatory molecules that exacerbate inflammation and renal tissue damage and aggravate the progression of CKD. Several experimental studies have revealed potential pathways by which uremic toxin further aggravates CKD. These include the induction of membrane vesicle production in host cells, which can trigger inflammatory pathways and insulin resistance. Reciprocally, CKD can also modulate gut bacterial composition that might further aggravate CKD condition. Thus, EDCs pose a significant threat to kidney health and the global CKD burden. Understanding this complicated issue necessitates multidisciplinary initiatives such as strict environmental controls, public awareness, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting EDCs.

Combined effects of a high-fat diet and polyethylene microplastic exposure induce impaired lipid metabolism and locomotor behavior in larvae and adult zebrafish

Microplastics (MP), tiny plastic particles, can be ingested by fish through their habitat or contaminated food sources. When combined with a high-fat diet (HFD), MP exposure may lead to increased MP accumulation in fish and negative impacts on their health. However, the underlying mechanisms of how MP and HFD interact to promote fat accumulation in fish remain poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the combined effect of HFD and polyethylene MP (PE-MP) in the zebrafish model (Danio rerio) and decipher its molecular mechanisms. Adult zebrafish exposed to the combined HFD and PE-MP showed elevated lipid accumulation, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and abnormal swimming behavior compared to HFD-fed fish. Histological and gene expression analysis revealed severe hepatic inflammation and injury, resembling nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the HFD + PE-MP exposed zebrafish. Moreover, HFD and PE-MP exposure upregulated genes related to lipogenesis (SREBP1, FAS, and C/EBPα) and inflammation (tnfα, il1β, and il-6) in the liver. These findings underscore the interactive effect of environmental pollutants and fish diet, emphasizing the importance of improving fish culture practices to safeguard fish health and human consumers from microplastic contamination through the food chain. This research sheds light on the complex interactions between microplastics and diet, providing valuable insights into the potential risks of microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems and the implications for human health. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms will contribute to international research efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of microplastics on both environmental and public health.

Unveiling nanotubes-mediated communication: Enterococcus faecalis countering Salmonella ser. Typhi - In vitro and In vivo insights

Bacteria communicate with each other through contact-dependent and contact-independent mechanisms. While certain contact-dependent mechanisms, such as Type IV and Type VI, have received considerable attention, nanotubes-mediated communication among gut bacteria remains largely unknown. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the presence of nanotube production in both gut commensal and gut pathogenic bacteria. And also aims to show how Enterococcus faecalis utilizes nanotubes to combat Salmonella ser. Typhi (S. Typhi), a pathogen in the gut. The research findings suggest that the formation of nanotubes is an inherent trait observed in both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Interestingly, bacteria generate nanotubes in dynamic environments, biofilms, and even within the gut of zebrafish. These nanotubes develops over time in accordance with the duration of incubation. Furthermore, E. faecalis effectively combats S. Typhi through mechanisms that depend on physical contact rather than indirect methods. Notably, E. faecalis protects zebrafish larvae from S. Typhi infections by reducing reactive oxygen species and cell death, and concurrently boosting the production of antioxidant enzymes. It is hypothesized that E. faecalis might eliminate S. Typhi by transferring toxic metabolites into the pathogen via nanotubes. Gene expression analysis highlights that proinflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 are elevated in Salmonella-infected larvae. However, co-treatment with E. faecalis counters this effect. Findings of this study underscores the significance of nanotubes as a vital machinery for bacterial communication and distribution of virulence factors. Exploring nanotubes-mediated communication at a molecular level could pave the way for innovative therapeutic interventions.

Quorum sensing signals: Aquaculture risk factor

Bacteria produce several virulence factors and cause massive mortality in fish and crustaceans. Abundant quorum sensing (QS) signals and high cell density are essentially required for the production of such virulence factors. Although several strategies have been developed to control aquatic pathogens through antibiotics and QS inhibition, the impact of pre‐existing QS signals in the aquatic environment has been overlooked. QS signals cause detrimental effects on mammalian cells and induce cell death by interfering with multiple cellular pathways. Moreover, QS signals not only function as a messenger, but also annihilate the functions of the host immune system which implies that QS signals should be designated as a major virulence factor. Despite QS signals' role has been well documented in mammalian cells, their impact on aquatic organisms is still at the budding stage. However, many aquatic organisms produce enzymes that degrade and detoxify such QS signals. In addition, physical and chemical factors also determine the stability of the QS signals in the aqueous environment. The balance between QS signals and existing QS signals degrading factors essentially determines the disease progression in aquatic organisms. In this review, we highlight the impact of QS signals on aquatic organisms and further discussed potential alternative strategies to control disease progression.

Expanding germ-organ theory: Understanding non-communicable diseases through enterobacterial translocation

Diverse microbial communities colonize different habitats of the human body, including gut, oral cavity, nasal cavity and tissues. These microbial communities are known as human microbiome, plays a vital role in maintaining the health. However, changes in the composition and functions of human microbiome can result in chronic low-grade inflammation, which can damage the epithelial cells and allows pathogens and their toxic metabolites to translocate into other organs such as the liver, heart, and kidneys, causing metabolic inflammation. This dysbiosis of human microbiome has been directly linked to the onset of several non-communicable diseases. Recent metabolomics studies have revealed that pathogens produce several uraemic toxins. These metabolites can serve as inter-kingdom signals, entering the circulatory system and altering host metabolism, thereby aggravating a variety of diseases. Interestingly, Enterobacteriaceae, a critical member of Proteobacteria, has been commonly associated with several non-communicable diseases, and the abundance of this family has been positively correlated with uraemic toxin production. Hence, this review provides a comprehensive overview of Enterobacterial translocation and their metabolites role in non-communicable diseases. This understanding may lead to the identification of novel biomarkers for each metabolic disease as well as the development of novel therapeutic drugs.

Luteolin, a promising quorum quencher mitigates virulence factors production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa - In vitro and in vivo approach

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) is an opportunistic pathogen that causes healthcare-associated infection and high mortality in immunocompromised patients. It produces several virulence factors through quorum sensing (QS) mechanisms that is essential for subverting host immune system. Even front-line antibiotics are unable to control PA pathogenicity due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Luteolin is a naturally derived compound that has proven to be the effective drug to annihilate pathogens through quorum quenching mechanism. In this study, the protective effect of luteolin against the PA-mediated inflammation was demonstrated using zebrafish model. Luteolin protects zebrafish from PA infection and increases their survival rate. It was found that PA-mediated ROS, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis were also significantly reduced in luteolin-treated zebrafish larvae. Open field test (OFT) reveals that luteolin rescued PA-infected zebrafish from retarded swimming behavior. Furthermore, luteolin increases SOD and CAT levels and decreases LDH and NO levels in PA-infected zebrafish compare to control group. Histological and gene expression analysis reveals that luteolin protects PA-infected zebrafish by decreasing gut inflammation and altering the expression of inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and antioxidant markers (iNOS, SOD, CAT). Thus, luteolin was found to have dual effect in protecting PA-infected zebrafish by decreasing virulence factors production in PA and stimulating host immune system. This is the first study demonstrating the protective effect of luteolin using animal model. Hence, luteolin could be used as a future therapeutic drug to control multi-drug resistant PA.

Nimbin analog N2 alleviates high testosterone induced oxidative stress in CHO cells and alters the expression of Tox3 and Dennd1a signal transduction pathway involved in the PCOS zebrafish

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that causes enlargement of ovaries and follicular maturation arrest, which lacks efficient treatment. N2, a semi-natural triterpenoid from the neem family, was already reported to have antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties in our previous report. This study investigated the anti-androgenic property of N2 on testosterone-induced oxidative stress in Chinese Hamster Ovarian cells (CHO) and PCOS zebrafish model. The testosterone exposure disrupted the antioxidant enzymes and ROS level and enhanced the apoptosis in both CHO cells and PCOS zebrafish. However, N2 significantly protected the CHO cells from ROS and apoptosis. N2 improved the Gonado somatic index (GSI) and upregulated the expression of the SOD enzyme in zebrafish ovaries. Moreover, the testosterone-induced follicular maturation arrest was normalized by N2 treatment in histopathology studies. In addition, the gene expression studies of Tox3 and Denndla in zebrafish demonstrated that N2 could impair PCOS condition. Furthermore, to confirm the N2 activity, the in-silico studies were performed against PCOS susceptible genes Tox3 and Dennd1a using molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. The results suggested that N2 alleviated the oxidative stress and apoptosis in-vitro and in-vivo and altered the expression of PCOS key genes.

Intercellular communication and social behaviors in mycobacteria

Cell-to-cell communication is a fundamental process of bacteria to exert communal behaviors. Sputum samples of patients with cystic fibrosis have often been observed with extensive mycobacterial genetic diversity. The emergence of heterogenic mycobacterial populations is observed due to subtle changes in their morphology, gene expression level, and distributive conjugal transfer (DCT). Since each subgroup of mycobacteria has different hetero-resistance, they are refractory against several antibiotics. Such genetically diverse mycobacteria have to communicate with each other to subvert the host immune system. However, it is still a mystery how such heterogeneous strains exhibit synchronous behaviors for the production of quorum sensing (QS) traits, such as biofilms, siderophores, and virulence proteins. Mycobacteria are characterized by division of labor, where distinct sub-clonal populations contribute to the production of QS traits while exchanging complimentary products at the community level. Thus, active mycobacterial cells ensure the persistence of other heterogenic clonal populations through cooperative behaviors. Additionally, mycobacteria are likely to establish communication with neighboring cells in a contact-independent manner through QS signals. Hence, this review is intended to discuss our current knowledge of mycobacterial communication. Understanding mycobacterial communication could provide a promising opportunity to develop drugs to target key pathways of mycobacteria.

Amelioration of acrylamide induced neurotoxicity by benzo[b]thiophene analogs via glutathione redox dynamics in zebrafish larvae

Acrylamide is a thermal process contaminant, which gets global attention due to its neurotoxic nature and its omnipresence in carbohydrate-rich foods. Chronic exposure to acrylamide leads to neuronal deterioration and motor dysfunction. Acrylamide could severely affect the antioxidant defense system, especially in the developing brain leading to premature neurological disorders. Acrylamide forms adduct in presynaptic neurons leading to neuroinflammation which is also a factor to consider. In this present study, we have explored whether our benzo[b]thiophene analogs, 1-(3-hydroxybenzo[b]thiophen-2-yl) ethanone (BP) and 1-(3-hydroxybenzo[b]thiophen-2-yl) propan-1-one hydrate (EP) with antioxidant activity, could inhibit the acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity-like behavior in zebrafish larvae. The experiment was set up to expose 3 days post fertilized (dpf) larvae to acrylamide (0.75 mM) for 3 days with or without compounds (80 µM). Locomotion behavioral analysis, antioxidants, glutathione, and acetylcholineesterase activity in the head region were analyzed after one day of the experimental procedure. We witnessed a restoration effect on glutathione redox dynamics. Since glutathione plays a crucial role in the detoxification of acrylamide, it is necessary to maintain the glutathione redox cycle to eliminate acrylamide from the body. BP and EP reduced the pro-inflammatory transcript in the head, which correlates with the reduction in oxidative stress. Finally, BP and EP showed a positive effect on synaptic vesicle cycling transcript and partially restores the motor neuron response to stimuli. Findings in this study showed the ability of compound BP and EP possess therapeutic value in oxidative stress-associated neurological disorders.

Bacillus subtilis BR4 derived stigmatellin Y interferes Pqs-PqsR mediated quorum sensing system of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Cell-to-cell communication is essentially required in bacteria for the production of multiple virulence factors and successful colonization in the host. Targeting the virulence factors production without hampering the growth of the pathogens is a potential strategy to control pathogenesis. To accomplish this, a total of 43 mangrove isolates were screened for quorum quenching (QQ) activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), in which eight bacteria have shown antibiofilm activity without hampering the growth of the PA. Prominent QQ activity was observed in Bacillus subtilis BR4. Previously, we found that BR4 produces stigmatellin Y, a structural analogue of PQS signal of PA, which could competitively bind with PqsR receptor and inhibits the quorum sensing (QS) system of PA. Further, stigmatellin Y containing ethyl acetate extract (S-EAE) (100 µg ml^-1 ) of BR4 significantly inhibits (p < 0.001) the biofilm formation of PA. Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis also fortified the QQ activity of BR4. Furthermore, S-EAE of BR4 (500 µg ml^-1 ) has significantly reduced the production of virulence factors, including protease, elastase, pyocyanin and extracellular polysaccharides substances. Furthermore, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)/MS analysis affirms that BR4 intercepts the PQS-mediated QS system by reducing the synthesis of as many PQS signals, including precursor molecule (243.162313 Da) of PQS signal. Thus, S-EAE of B. subtilis BR4 could be used as a promising therapeutic agent to combat QS system-mediated pathogenesis of PA. Further therapeutic potentials of stigmatellin Y to be evaluated in clinical studies for the treatment of multidrug resistant PA.

Association of Agriculture Occupational Exposure With Diabetes and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in South Indian Villages: REDSI Study

There has been a huge increase in diabetes and its associated cardiovascular complications over the last decade, predominantly in the middle- and low-income countries. In these countries, the majority live in rural areas. The Rural Epidemiology of Diabetes in South India (REDSI) study was aimed to analyze the prevalence of diabetes, cardiovascular risk factors, and its complications in rural farming and non-farming villages in Tamil Nadu, South India. A research survey on the prevalence of self-reported diabetes, cardiovascular risk factors (age, sex, obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, alcohol and tobacco use) and agricultural occupational exposure was executed among 106,111 people from 61 villages in the state of Tamil Nadu, South India, during 2015-2018. Overall, we observed a diabetes prevalence of 11.9% in rural South India. A nearly two-fold higher prevalence of diabetes was observed among the farming community (15.0%) compared to that among the non-farming population (8.7%). Logistic regression analyses revealed a strong association with agrochemical exposure (P < 0.0001) and diabetes prevalence among rural farming people. Our survey indicates a high prevalence of diabetes in rural South India particularly among the farming community. This survey in conjunction with other epidemiological and experimental studies raises the need for understanding the etiology of diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors in rural communities.

Molecular trafficking between bacteria determines the shape of gut microbial community

Complex inter-bacterial interactions largely influence the structure and function of the gut microbial community. Though several host-associated phenomena have often been shown to be involved in the stability, structure, and function of the gut microbial community, the implication of contact-dependent and contact-independent inter-bacterial interactions has been overlooked. Such interactions are tightly governed at multiple layers through several extracellular organelles, including contact-dependent inhibition (CDI), nanotubes, type VI secretion system (T6SS), and membrane vesicles (MVs). Recent advancements in molecular techniques have revealed that such extracellular organelles function beyond exhibiting competitive behavior and are also involved in manifesting cooperative behaviors. Cooperation between bacteria occurs through the sharing of several beneficial molecules including nucleic acids, proteins, metabolites, and nutrients among the members of the community, while competition occurs by means of multiple toxins. Intrinsic coordination between contact-dependent and contact-independent mechanisms collectively provides a fitness advantage and increased colonization resistance to the gut microbiota, where molecular trafficking plays a key role. This review is intended to provide a comprehensive view of the salient features of the different bacterial interactions and to highlight how microbiota deploy multifaceted organelles, for exerting both cooperative and competitive behaviors. We discuss the current knowledge of bacterial molecular trafficking and its impact on shaping the gut microbial community.

The morphology-dependent electrocatalytic activities of spinel-cobalt oxide nanomaterials for direct hydrazine fuel cell application

Morphologically-tuned spinel-cobalt oxide nanomaterials such as pellet-, flower-, cube- and sheet-like structures as an anode for an enhanced hydrazine oxidation reaction (HOR) is demonstrated.

Anthropometric analysis of the infraorbital foramen in a South Indian population

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to document the morphological and topographical anatomy of the infraorbital foramen (IOF) in relation to the infraorbital rim (IOR), which is necessary in clinical situations that require regional nerve blocks.

METHODS

A total of 80 dry South Indian adult human skulls of unknown age and gender were studied. In each skull, the IOF on both sides was measured using a metal casing digital vernier caliper, with the IOR as the reference point. The IOF's location and its transverse and vertical diameters were measured. The shape, size, orientation and accessory foramens of the IOF were also documented.

RESULTS

The majority of IOF among the skulls were oval-shaped on both the right (55 percent) and left (51.25 percent) sides. The majority were directed inferomedially on both the right (55 percent) and left (52.50 percent) sides. The overall combined distance between the IOR and IOF was 4.1 to 11.5 (6.57 +/- 1.28) mm. The overall combined vertical diameter was 1.2 to 4.7 (2.82 +/- 0.79) mm. The overall combined transverse diameter was 1 to 5.1 (2.87 +/- 0.78) mm. Accessory foramens of IOF were found in 13 (16.25 percent) skulls.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of the anatomical characteristics of IOF locations, diameters, shapes, directions and its accessory foramens may have important implications on blocking the infraorbital nerve for surgical and local anaesthetic planning. Information on the shape of the foramens obtained from this study may provide additional guidance to surgeons when introducing needles in anaesthetic procedures.

Standard precautions and post exposure prophylaxis for preventing infections

In health care set up, risk of acquiring infection by both patients and health care worker (HCW) from each other is fairly high. Despite progress, hospital acquired infections (HAI) are a problem in both developed and developing countries and are an important cause of death. Many different microbes cause HAI in both patients and HCW; these include various commensals, pathogenic bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Among these HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are of major significance to HCW. 'Standard precautions' have now replaced the term 'universal precautions', and are designed to reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms in health care set-up from both recognized and unrecognized sources. Ultimate aim is to reduce the risk of disease transmission in the healthcare setting, both to the patient and the provider, and thus reduce morbidity. This applies to all patients, regardless of their diagnosis and expands the coverage of universal precautions by recognizing that any body fluid may contain contagious and harmful microorganisms. This article reviews the standard precautions and discusses current guidelines on post exposure prophylaxis (PEP).