A Judo-Based Exercise Program to Reduce Falls and Frailty Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Feasibility Study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore the feasibility (including recruitment, safety and adherence) and the effects of a twice weekly supervised Judo-based exercise program over eight weeks on mobility, balance, physical performance, quality of life, fear of falling and physical activity (including by frailty status) in community-dwelling older people aged ≥65 years.

DESIGN

Pre-post study.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 17 participants (mean age 74.3±6.2; range 66-87 years; 76.5% female).

INTERVENTION

A Judo-based exercise program conducted twice weekly for 60 minutes per session over eight weeks.

MEASUREMENTS

Pre and post assessments included the Timed Up and Go (TUG); the Berg Balance Scale (BBS); the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB); the Short Form Health Survey-36 (SF-36); the Falls Efficiency Scale International (FES-I); and an ActivPal accelerometer to measure participants' physical activity.

RESULTS

Most participants had low (≤3) Charlson's Comorbidity Index scores (n=17, 100%), were well nourished (n=16, 94.1%), not sarcopenic (n=16, 94.1%), and not cognitively impaired (n=13, 76.5%), anxious or depressed (n=14, 82.4%). Ten participants (58.8%) were non-frail and seven were pre-frail (41.2%). Significant improvements (p<0.05) were seen for mobility (TUG), balance (BBS) and physical performance (SPPB). Pre-frail participants showed greater improvement in mobility (TUG) than non-frail participants (p=0.020). No changes (p≥0.05) were seen in quality of life, fear of falling, or physical activity. Participants' adherence (i.e., attending sessions) was high (i.e., ≥81.2%). No serious adverse events or withdrawals were reported.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that the eight week Judo-based exercise program can be delivered safely to older adults aged ≥65 years, including those at-risk of frailty, as long as there is close supervision with individualisation of the program in response to emergent health symptoms and the program is conducted on requisite Judo mats. This Judo-based exercise program is effective in improving physical function with potential to prevent falls and frailty risk.

Simple cryopreservation protocol for Luffa pollen: enhancing breeding efficiency

This study aimed to develop a long-term pollen storage protocol for Luffa species (L. acutangula, L. cylindrica, L. echinata, and L. graveolens) and assess its potential for crop improvement. The optimal medium for in vitro pollen germination varied by species, with Brewbaker and Kwack (BK) medium with 10% sucrose suitable for L. acutangula, L. cylindrica, and L. echinata, and BK medium with 3% sucrose ideal for L. graveolens. Overestimation in staining tests compared to in vitro pollen germination was observed. The best results for cryopreservation were achieved with desiccation periods of 20, 30, and 40 min, maintaining moisture content between 14.04% and 18.55%. Pollen viability was negatively correlated with storage temperature (25, 4, and -20°C) and duration. Cryopreserved pollen at -196°C exhibited the highest viability over a prolonged period (2 months) and was comparable to fresh pollen in terms of germination, ovule fertilization, and fruit and seed set. This study presents a simple and reproducible pollen cryopreservation protocol applicable across Luffa species, facilitating long-term storage and its use in crop improvement efforts.

Is scolding analogous to positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP)?

N/A

Inheritance and molecular mapping of solitary/cluster fruit-bearing habit in Luffa

Fruiting behaviour and sex form are important goals for Luffa breeders and this study aimed to shed light upon inheritance patterns for both these traits. The hermaphrodite form of Luffa acutangula (known as Satputia) is an underutilized vegetable with a unique clustered fruiting habit. Its desirable traits, such as plant architecture, earliness, as well as contrasting traits like unique clustered fruiting, bisexual flower, and crossability with Luffa acutangula (monoecious ridge gourd with solitary fruits), make it a potential source for trait improvement and mapping of desirable traits in Luffa. In the present study, we have elucidated the inheritance pattern of fruiting behaviour in Luffa using F₂ mapping population generated from a cross between Pusa Nutan (Luffa acutangula, monoecious, solitary fruiting) × DSat-116 (Luffa acutangula, hermaphrodite, cluster fruiting). In F₂ generation, the observed distribution of plant phenotypes fitted in the expected ratio of 3:1 (solitary vs cluster) for fruit-bearing habit. This is the first report of monogenic recessive control for cluster fruit-bearing habit in Luffa. Herein, we designate for the first time the gene symbol cl for cluster fruit bearing in Luffa. Linkage analysis revealed that SRAP marker ME10 EM4-280 was linked to the fruiting trait at the distance of 4.6 cM from the Cl locus. In addition, the inheritance pattern of hermaphrodite sex form in Luffa was also studied in the F₂ population of Pusa Nutan × DSat-116 that segregated into 9:3:3:1 ratio (monoecious:andromonoecious:gynoecious:hermaphrodite), suggesting a digenic recessive control of hermaphrodite sex form in Luffa, which was further confirmed by the test cross. The inheritance and identification of molecular marker for cluster fruiting trait provides a basis for breeding in Luffa species.

Harnessing sponge gourd: an alternative source of oil and protein for nutritional security

Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem. is an important cucurbit crop that assures food security and dietary diversity among the poor communities. In the present study, seeds of 42 genotypes of Luffa cylindrica were evaluated for their potential use as oil seed crop. Seed moisture, oil and protein content and fatty acids profile were estimated along with total phenol and sugar content. Significant differences were observed among the various genotypes where oil content ranged from 15.4-29.8% and protein 19.9-30.8%. Total phenol content was high 6.43-12.84 mg/100 g, which bodes well for the sponge gourd seeds' ability to act as antioxidants. Significant correlation were found between important constituents studied like protein and oil, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid. Total unsaturated fatty acids were in higher amount comparable to saturated fatty acids signifying the good quality of Luffa seed oil. Our research revealed that the NDSG-1, Pusa Sneha, DSG-95, DSG-98, DSG-108, and DSG-26 genotypes were very nutritious due to their high levels of protein, oleic acid, and oil output. Additionally, selection of traits having considerable correlation will be beneficial and help in improved varietal development for usage as an alternative oilseed crop. Our research sheds light on the nutritional value of sponge gourd seeds and suggests using them as a potential source for oil and protein, particularly in underdeveloped countries.

Assessment of genetic diversity of ninety-one bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.] genotypes from fourteen different agro-climatic zones of India using agro-morphological traits and SSR markers

BACKGROUND

The evaluation of the magnitude of genetic diversity present in the germplasm collection is prerequisite for bottle gourd improvement programme. The characterization of the diversity pattern of Indian bottle gourd accessions will facilitate the optimal use of genetic resources for breeding improved cultivars.

METHODS

In the present study, the magnitude of genetic diversity was evaluated in ninety-one genotypes of bottle gourd collected across fourteen different agro-climatic zones of India.

RESULTS

Significant variations were observed for all the studied ten quantitative and nine qualitative traits. The ninety-one genotypes were grouped into nine clusters based on cluster analysis of morphological characteristics. Eigen value from principal component analysis depicted first seven quantitative traits accounted for more than 97.5 cumulative percent of the total variations. The first two components accounted for 50 cumulative percent of the total variation, which signifies a high degree of correlation between the analyzed traits. Molecular diversity with the 40 SSR markers screened revealed 11 polymorphic markers in the genotypes studied. Population structure analysis divulged five populations, conforming to the Principal Coordinate Analysis. Molecular analysis revealed genetically diverse genotypes along with the morphologically divergent genotypes from the quantitative traits and highest inter-cluster distance would be the most appropriate parents for exploiting heterosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study will facilitate the optimal use of genetic resources for breeding improved cultivars of bottle gourd and the adoption of the identified superior genotypes directly by the breeders.

Plasmonic Paper based Flexible SERS Biosensor for Highly Sensitive Detection of Lactic and Uric Acid

Selective detection and quantification of biomarkers related to human diseases are essential for preventive healthcare. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical tool offering high sensitivity. However, the success of this promising analytical tool relies on the ability to effectively fabricate SERS substrate. Herein we have demonstrated a plasmonic paper-based flexible substrate (PPFS) for SERS sensing. In situ growth of silver nanostructures (AgNS) on the paper-based substrate was achieved by using a simple one-step silver mirror reaction (SMR). FESEM and TEM results depicts that the increasing silver ion content influences the morphology (growth of multifacets), as well as size of AgNS. Further, the PPFS substrate was tested with Rhodamine-6G (Rh-6G) dye and an attomole sensitivity with a LOD of 4.54 x 10-18 M was achieved. Further, two biomarkers, lactic acid (LA) and uric acid (UA) were detected on the PPFS substrate, with μM and pM sensitivity, having LOD values of 0.6 x 10-6 and 0.3 x 10-12 M respectively. Above detection levels for UA on PPFS is two orders better than reported values, whereas for LA it is comparable with reported substrates. Finally, UA, LA and their mixtures were tested on PPFS and results compared with commercial substrate. The performance of PPFS were found better in all cases, thus, multifaceted AgNS paper based PPFS offers the potential to be used as a biosensor for detection of various biomarkers from body fluids, responsible for the detection of the critical disease for preventive health care.

Short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy versus conventionally fractionated long-course chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer: randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The trial hypothesis was that, in a resource-constrained situation, short-course radiotherapy would improve treatment compliance compared with conventional chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer, without compromising oncological outcomes.

METHODS

In this open-label RCT, patients with cT3, cT4 or node-positive non-metastatic rectal cancer were allocated randomly to 5 × 5 Gy radiotherapy and two cycles of XELOX (arm A) or chemoradiotherapy with concurrent capecitabine (arm B), followed by total mesorectal excision in both arms. All patients received a further six cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy with the XELOX regimen. The primary endpoint was treatment compliance, defined as the ability to complete planned treatment, including neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy, surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy to a dose of six cycles.

RESULTS

Of 162 allocated patients, 140 were eligible for analysis: 69 in arm A and 71 in arm B. Compliance with planned treatment (primary endpoint) was greater in arm A (63 versus 41 per cent; P = 0.005). The incidence of acute toxicities of neoadjuvant therapy was similar (haematological: 28 versus 32 per cent, P = 0.533; gastrointestinal: 14 versus 21 per cent, P = 0.305; grade III-IV: 2 versus 4 per cent, P = 1.000). Delays in radiotherapy were less common in arm A (9 versus 45 per cent; P < 0.001), and overall times for completion of neoadjuvant treatment were shorter (P < 0.001). The rates of R0 resection (87 versus 90 per cent; P = 0.554), sphincter preservation (32 versus 35 per cent; P = 0.708), pathological complete response (12 versus 10 per cent; P = 0.740), and overall tumour downstaging (75 versus 75 per cent; P = 0.920) were similar. Downstaging of the primary tumour (ypT) was more common in arm A (P = 0.044). There was no difference in postoperative complications between trial arms (P = 0.838).

CONCLUSION

Reduced treatment delays and a higher rate of compliance were observed with treatment for short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy, with no difference in early oncological surgical outcomes. In time- and resource-constrained rectal cancer units in developing countries, short-course radiotherapy should be the standard of care.

Imaging of the spectrum of abnormal systemic arterial supply to the lungs using dual-source CT

Abnormal systemic arterial supply to the lungs can be seen in various congenital and acquired diseases. Identification and characterisation of aberrant vascular supply is essential for further management and treatment. Multidetector computed tomography (CT) with its multiplanar capabilities and volume-rendering techniques provides precise information regarding the anatomy and spatial relationship of arterial vascular channels. The following concise review elucidates the characteristic imaging findings of conditions in which systemic arteries are seen supplying the lung parenchyma on dual-source CT.

Reducing admission hypothermia in newborns at a tertiary care NICU of northern India: A quality improvement study

BACKGROUND

Hypothermia at admission to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in newborns. A baseline study at a tertiary care hospital with all out-born babies showed admission hypothermia of 82%.

OBJECTIVE

To reduce admission hypothermia (moderate) in newborns at least by 50% in next 6 months.

METHODS

A quality improvement (QI) study was planned using WHO Point of Care Quality Improvement Model (POCQI), [17] using PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) cycle approach from April 2018 to March 2019, and including 427 term and preterm babies. We educated the staff, reinforced the use of caps, cling wraps, warm linen, introduced Ziploc bags and ensured adequate use of transport incubator.

RESULTS

After 6 months, overall admission hypothermia decreased from 82% to 45%, moderate hypothermia reduced from 46% to <10% (P < 0.001) and severe hypothermia (3%) was completely eliminated. There was also significant reduction in incidence of Intraventricular hemorrhage (13% Vs 4.7%), Late onset neonatal sepsis (38% Vs 19%) and metabolic acidosis (43% Vs 28%). We were able to sustain this improvement for the next 6 months and is ongoing. The strongest predictor of hypothermia was newborns being in the phase before QI initiative was started (OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.47, 3.23).

CONCLUSION

This study is a cost effective approach in reducing admission hypothermia in NICU in a resource limited setting with all outborn babies, and further decreasing the morbidity associated with it. Hence, emphasizing the importance of maintaining euthermia, not only in delivery rooms, but also during transportation.

Emphysematous osteomyelitis caused by Salmonella typhi in beta thalassemia major

There have been various cases of salmonella osteomyelitis reported in sickle cell anemia. We present a case of emphysematous osteomyelitis caused by Salmonella typhi in a 29-year-old beta thalassemia major patient. Diagnosis of emphysematous osteomyelitis was confirmed by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, and culture of pus drained during surgical debridement confirmed the causative microorganism, Salmonella typhi. Antimicrobials were given according to microbiological sensitivity for a period of 8 weeks. Our patient also received hyperbaric oxygen therapy. At the end of therapy, he was afebrile and laboratory parameters normalized with a residual joint deformity which developed within 3 months.

Genetic diversity and population structure detection in sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica) using ISSR, SCoT and morphological markers

Investigation of genetic diversity is essential for the selection of parents for crop breeding and conservation of genetic resources. To estimate the genetic variability and population structure in the midst of 45 accessions of sponge gourd brought together from different geographical areas of India, morphological traits and two molecular markers, ISSR and SCoT markers were compared. Principal components analysis of 20 morphological traits showed 72.70% variability and significant positive correlations between fruit traits. All three marker techniques clustered all accessions into two groups with few outgroups. High level of polymorphism was observed among ISSR (74.6%) and SCoT (71.5%) primers. The Bayesian model revealed the hidden grouping and showed admixture type of population. The diversity pattern is influenced by genetic marker used, as different molecular markers have different polymorphism evaluation efficiency. This study can be helpful in amplifying the genetic base and selection of specific traits for breeding. Thus, ISSR and SCoT markers are potential marker for identification in sponge gourd and provide valuable data on its genetic correlation and structure.

Moyamoya syndrome in hemoglobin E-beta thalassemia: A rare presentation and association

Moyamoya disease is an idiopathic, nonatherosclerotic, noninflammatory, chronic progressive cerebrovascular disease characterized by bilateral stenosis or occlusion of the arteries around the circle of Willis, typically the supraclinoid internal carotid arteries, followed by extensive collateralization, which are prone to thrombosis, aneurysm, and hemorrhage. Secondary moyamoya phenomenon or moyamoya syndrome (MMS) occurs in a wide range of clinical scenarios including prothrombotic states such as sickle cell anemia, but the association with other hemoglobinopathies is less frequently observed. We describe a case of a 25-year-old female with hemoglobin E-beta thalassemia who had a rare presentation of MMS in the form of choreoathetoid movements in the left upper and lower extremities. We describe this association, primarily to emphasize thalassemia as an extremely rare but a potential etiology of MMS. Since MMS is a progressive disease, it is important to diagnose and initiate treatment to prevent worsening of the disease and recurrence of stroke.

Effects of developmental lead exposure on the hippocampal methylome: Influences of sex and timing and level of exposure

Developmental lead (Pb) exposure results in persistent cognitive/behavioral impairments as well as an elevated risk for developing a variety of diseases in later life. Environmental exposures during development can result in a variety of epigenetic changes, including alterations in DNA methylation, that can influence gene expression patterns and affect the function and development of the nervous system. The present promoter-based methylation microarray profiling study explored the extent to which developmental Pb exposure may modify the methylome of a brain region, hippocampus, known to be sensitive to the effects of Pb exposure. Male and female Long Evans rats were exposed to 0 ppm, 150 ppm, 375 ppm, or 750 ppm Pb through perinatal exposures (gestation through lactation), early postnatal exposures (birth through weaning), or long-term postnatal exposures (birth through postnatal day 55). Results showed a significant contribution of sex to the hippocampal methylome and effects of Pb exposure level, with non-linear dose response effects on methylation. Surprisingly, the developmental period of exposure contributed only a small amount of variance to the overall data and gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed the largest number of overrepresented GO terms in the groups with the lowest level of exposure. The highest number of significant differentially methylated regions was found in females exposed to Pb at the lowest exposure level. Our data reinforce the significant effect that low level Pb exposure may have on gene-specific DNA methylation patterns in brain and that this occurs in a sex-dependent manner.

OCO-2 advances photosynthesis observation from space via solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence

Quantifying gross primary production (GPP) remains a major challenge in global carbon cycle research. Spaceborne monitoring of solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF), an integrative photosynthetic signal of molecular origin, can assist in terrestrial GPP monitoring. However, the extent to which SIF tracks spatiotemporal variations in GPP remains unresolved. Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2)'s SIF data acquisition and fine spatial resolution permit direct validation against ground and airborne observations. Empirical orthogonal function analysis shows consistent spatiotemporal correspondence between OCO-2 SIF and GPP globally. A linear SIF-GPP relationship is also obtained at eddy-flux sites covering diverse biomes, setting the stage for future investigations of the robustness of such a relationship across more biomes. Our findings support the central importance of high-quality satellite SIF for studying terrestrial carbon cycle dynamics.

Degradation of chlortetracycline using immobilized laccase on Polyacrylonitrile-biochar composite nanofibrous membrane

The continuous release of antibiotic compounds through wastewater effluent into environment has raised concerns about their potential problems for different organisms. Enzymatic degradation with laccase is a green option for removal of pharmaceutical compounds from aqueous media. In this study, laccase was immobilized onto homemade Polyacrylonitrile-biochar composite nanofibrous membrane and the obtained biocatalyst was employed for removal of chlortetracycline, a widely used antibiotic, from aqueous media in continuous mode. The results showed that the immobilized laccase has improved storage, temperature and pH stability compared to free laccase. Also, it retained more than 50% of its initial activity after 7cycles of ABTS oxidation which indicated improved enzyme reusability. Finally, while using immobilized laccase for degradation of chlortetracycline in continuous mode exhibited 58.3%, 40.7% and 22.6% chlortetracycline removal efficiency at flux rates of 1, 2 and 3mL/h∙cm².

Note: A compact external-cavity diode laser, using feedback from an optical fiber

We demonstrate a simple and compact external cavity diode laser (ECDL), where light reflected from the tip of an optical fiber provides feedback, and an interference filter provides frequency selection. The ECDL combines ease of construction with robust operation and exhibits a linewidth of 50 kHz.

Immobilized laccase on oxygen functionalized nanobiochars through mineral acids treatment for removal of carbamazepine

Biocatalytic treatment with oxidoreductase enzymes, especially laccases are an environmentally benign method for biodegradation of pharmaceutical compounds, such as carbamazepine to less harmful compounds. However, enzymes are required to be immobilized on supports to be reusable and maintain their activity. Functionalization of support prior to immobilization of enzyme is highly important because of biomolecule-support interface on enzyme activity and stability. In this work, the effect of oxidation of nanobiochar, a carbonaceous material produced by biomass pyrolysis, using HCl, H₂SO₄, HNO₃ and their mixtures on immobilization of laccase has been studied. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that the structure of nanobiochars remained intact after oxidation and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the formation of carboxylic groups because of acid treatment. Titration measurements showed that the sample treated with H₂SO₄/HNO₃ (50:50, v/v) had the highest number of carboxylic groups (4.7mmol/g) and consequently the highest efficiency for laccase immobilization. Additionally, it was observed that the storage, pH and thermal stability of immobilized laccase on functionalized nanobiochar was improved compared to free laccase showing its potential for continuous applications. The reusability tests towards oxidation of 2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) showed that the immobilized laccase preserved 70% of the initial activity after 3cycles. Finally, using immobilized laccase for degradation of carbamazepine exhibited 83% and 86% removal in spiked water and secondary effluent, respectively.

Adsorption study of environmentally relevant concentrations of chlortetracycline on pinewood biochar

The presence of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) in water and wastewater has raised concerns because of potential environmental impacts and thus their removal is of high importance. The adsorption behavior of chlortetracycline (CTC) from aqueous solution on raw and activated pinewood biochar was studied at 298 K. The effect of initial pH of the solution was studied by performing the experiment at three different pHs (1, 5 and 9). At each pH, CTC showed varied electrostatic charge (+1, 0 and -1, respectively) which affected its adsorption. The results indicated that CTC followed Langmuir isotherm and the related parameters were calculated. Also, it was observed that the maximum adsorption occurred at pH1. The adsorption capacity of CTC for raw and activated biochar was at least 2.1 and 208.3mg/g adsorbent, respectively. The characteristics of biochars were studied using zeta potential analyzer, laser size analyzer and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that raw and activated biochars are promising candidates for removal of CTC from water due to the acidic character of pinewood that can result in better interaction with ionizable compounds at lower pHs.

NDPK-D (NM23-H4)-mediated externalization of cardiolipin enables elimination of depolarized mitochondria by mitophagy

Mitophagy is critical for cell homeostasis. Externalization of the inner mitochondrial membrane phospholipid, cardiolipin (CL), to the surface of the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) was identified as a mitophageal signal recognized by the microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3. However, the CL-translocating machinery remains unknown. Here we demonstrate that a hexameric intermembrane space protein, NDPK-D (or NM23-H4), binds CL and facilitates its redistribution to the OMM. We found that mitophagy induced by a protonophoric uncoupler, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), caused externalization of CL to the surface of mitochondria in murine lung epithelial MLE-12 cells and human cervical adenocarcinoma HeLa cells. RNAi knockdown of endogenous NDPK-D decreased CCCP-induced CL externalization and mitochondrial degradation. A R90D NDPK-D mutant that does not bind CL was inactive in promoting mitophagy. Similarly, rotenone and 6-hydroxydopamine triggered mitophagy in SH-SY5Y cells was also suppressed by knocking down of NDPK-D. In situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) showed that mitophagy-inducing CL-transfer activity of NDPK-D is closely associated with the dynamin-like GTPase OPA1, implicating fission-fusion dynamics in mitophagy regulation.

Membrane processes for removal of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) from water and wastewaters

Pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs), which find their way easily into the water sources, are emerging as a major concern for drinking water quality and aquatic species. Therefore, their removal from water sources is a priority from environmental point of view. During the past decade, different methods including membrane separation, adsorption systems and chemical transformation have been evaluated for removal of these compounds. This paper reviews different aspects of PhAC removal by using membrane separation processes, as they have been conventionally known to show high potential in the production of superior quality drinking and industrial water. In brief, osmosis membranes can efficiently remove almost all PhACs though its operational cost is relatively high and nanofiltration (NF) membranes are highly influenced by electrostatic and hydrophobic interaction. Moreover, the efficiency of membrane bioreactors (MBRs) is difficult to predict due to the complex interaction of compounds with microorganisms. To improve the performance and robustness of membrane technology, it is suggested to combine membranes with other systems, such as activated carbon and enzymatic degradation.

Green and energy-efficient methods for the production of metallic nanoparticles

In the last decade, researchers paid great attention to the concept of "Green Chemistry", which aims at development of efficient methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) in terms of the least possible impact on human life and environment. Generally, several reagents including precursors, reducing agents, stabilizing agents and solvents are used for the production of NPs and in some cases, energy is needed to reach the optimum temperature for reduction. Therefore, to develop a green approach, researchers had the opportunity to investigate eco-friendly reagents and new energy transfer techniques. In order to substitute the harmful reagents with green ones, researchers worked on different types of saccharides, polyols, carboxylic acids, polyoxometalates and extracts of various plants that can play the role of reducers, stabilizers or solvents. Also, there are some reports on using ultraviolet (UV), gamma and microwave irradiation that are capable of reducing and provide uniform heating. According to the literature, it is possible to use green reagents and novel energy transfer techniques for production of NPs. However, these new synthesis routes should be optimized in terms of performance, cost, product quality (shape and size distribution) and scale-up capability. This paper presents a review on most of the employed green reagents and new energy transfer techniques for the production of metallic NPs.

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-mediated gene expression in the immature rat thymus

To examine the effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on thymic gene expression in vitro, freshly isolated rat thymocytes were incubated with 10 nM TCDD, and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction experiments were performed using primers specific for prostaglandin G/H synthase (PGHS) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase. TCDD selectively repressed PGHS gene expression, with maximal inhibition occurring within 60 min. Gel retardation assays demonstrated that dioxin transiently induced binding of the ubiquitous transcription factor NF kappa B to its cognate response element at early time points. However, TCDD had little ability to induce transformation of the Ah receptor to the xenobiotic responsive element in thymic cytosol. These results indicate that TCDD exerts changes in thymocyte gene expression prior to inducing toxicity.

Transferability of cucumber microsatellite markers used for phylogenetic analysis and population structure study in bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.)

Improved breeding for developing fruit quality in bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.) necessitates knowledge regarding its genetic diversity. To achieve this, a set of 108 locus-specific SSR markers has been developed in bottle gourd by cross-species transferability from 995 mapped Cucumis sativus SSR markers. During screening, 280 primer pairs amplified in the bottle gourd germplasm, which were further evaluated in a diverse set of 42 lines, resulting in 19 polymorphic, 89 monomorphic, 15 with multiple bands, and the rest 157 showed no or very non-specific amplification. The 19 polymorphic primer pairs produced a total of 54 alleles. Gene diversity, Shannon's information index, and Nei's coefficient of differentiation were calculated suggesting a moderate genetic variation at the species level. A model-based population structure analysis divided these germplasm into two subpopulations. This marker set will be applicable for evaluating the genetic structure for association mapping, DNA fingerprinting, and mounting linkage maps and will be a practical tool set for further genetics. This study provides one of the first quantitative views of population genetic variation in bottle gourd.