An Intelligent Telugu Handwritten Character Recognition using Multi-Objective Mayfly Optimization with Deep Learning Based DenseNet Model

Handwritten character recognition process has gained significant attention among research communities due to the application in assistive technologies for visually impaired people, human robot interaction, automated registry for business document, and so on. Handwritten character recognition of Telugu language is hard owing to the absence of massive dataset and trained convolution neural network (CNN). Therefore, this paper introduces an intelligent Telugu character recognition using multi-objective mayfly optimization with deep learning (MOMFO-DL) model. The proposed MOMFO-DL technique involves DenseNet-169 model as a feature extractor to generate a useful set of feature vectors. Moreover, functional link neural network (FLNN) is used as a classification model to recognize and classify the printer characters. The design of MOMFO technique for the parameter optimization of DenseNet model and FLNN model shows the novelty of the work. The use of MOMFO technique helps to optimally tune the parameters in such a way that the overall performance can be improved. The extensive experimental analysis takes place on benchmark datasets and the outcomes are examined with respect to different measures. The experimental results pointed out the supremacy of the MOMFO technique over the recent state of art methods.

'Practical management of suspected hypersensitivity reactions to anti-tuberculosis drugs.'

Tuberculosis (TB) is the commonest cause of death by a single infectious agent globally and ranks amongst the top ten causes of global mortality. The incidence of TB is highest in Low-Middle Income countries (LMICs). Prompt institution of, and compliance with, therapy are cornerstones for a favourable outcome in TB and to mitigate the risk of multiple drug resistant (MDR)-TB, which is challenging to treat. There is some evidence that adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to anti-TB drugs occur in over 60% and 3-4% of patients respectively. Both ADRs and HSRs represent significant barriers to treatment adherence and are recognised risk factors for MDR-TB. HSRs to anti-TB drugs are usually cutaneous and benign, occur within few weeks after commencement of therapy and are likely to be T-cell mediated. Severe and systemic T-cell mediated HSRs and IgE mediated anaphylaxis to anti-TB drugs are relatively rare, but important to recognise and treat promptly. T-cell mediated HSRs are more frequent amongst patients with co-existing HIV infection. Some patients develop multiple sensitisation to anti-TB drugs. Whilst skin tests, patch tests and in vitro diagnostics have been used in the investigation of HSRs to anti-TB drugs, their predictive value is not established, they are onerous, require specialist input of an allergist and are resource-dependent. This is compounded by the global, unmet demand for allergy specialists, particularly in low income countries (LICs) / LMICs and now the challenging circumstances of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This narrative review provides a critical analysis of the limited published evidence on this topic and proposes a cautious and pragmatic approach to optimise and standardise the management of HSRs to anti-TB drugs. This includes clinical risk stratification and a dual strategy involving sequential re-challenge and rapid drug desensitisation. Furthermore, a concerted international effort is needed to generate real-time data on ADRs, HSRs, safety and clinical outcomes of these interventions.

Experimental infection and pathology of two highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses isolated from crow and chicken in house crows (Corvus splendens)

We investigated the experimental infection of two highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses isolated from crow (A/crow/Assam/142119/2008) and chicken (A/chicken/Sikkim/151466/2009) in house crows (Corvus splendens). Both viruses caused infection in crows, where four out of six and three out of six crows succumbed to H5N1 infection within 11 days post challenge by crow and chicken viruses, respectively. The major clinical signs in crows were wing paralysis, circling and torticollis. The virus shedding detected from swabs was not persistent in both crow nor chicken viruses. Both viruses were isolated more frequently from oral swabs than from cloacal swabs. Both virus strains were isolated from brain, lungs, heart, liver, pancreas, spleen, large intestines of crows that succumbed to H5N1 infection. The surviving birds seroconverted in response to H5N1 virus infection. Microscopically, both viruses caused coagulative necrosis in pancreas and kidneys. Brain showed gliosis and neuronal degeneration. This experimental study highlights that crows could be infected with H5N1 viruses from different hosts with minor differences in pathogenicity. Therefore, it is imperative to carry out surveillance of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in synanthropic birds along with biosecurity measures to mitigate the H5N1 spread in poultry population. Keywords: chicken virus; crow virus; highly pathogenic avian influenza; house crows.

Label-free peptide nucleic acid biosensor for visual detection of multiple strains of influenza A virus suitable for field applications

Accurate and rapid diagnosis of Influenza A viruses (IAVs) is challenging because of multiple strains circulating in humans and animal populations, and the emergence of new strains. In this study, we demonstrate a simple and rapid strategy for visual detection of multiple strains of IAVs (H1 to H16 subtypes) using peptide nucleic acid (PNA) as a biosensor and unmodified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as a reporter. The design principle of the assay is based on the color change on account of free PNA-induced aggregation of AuNPs in the presence of non-complementary viral RNA sequence and vice-versa. The assay could detect IAV RNA with a visual limit of detection of 2.3 ng. The quantification of RNA with a considerable accuracy on a simple spectrophotometer was achieved on plotting the PNA-induced colorimetric changes (absorption ratio of A₆₄₀/A₅₂₀) in the presence of a varying concentration of complementary RNA. As a proof-of-concept, the visual assay was validated on 419 avian clinical samples and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed a high diagnostic specificity (96.46%, 95% CI = 93.8 to 98.2) and sensitivity (82.41%, 95% CI = 73.9 to 89.1) when RT-qPCR was used as reference test. Hence, the simplicity, rapidity, and universality of this strategy make it a potential candidate visual assay for clinical diagnosis and surveillance of IAVs, especially in the resource-limited settings. The proposed strategy establishes new avenues for developing a simple and rapid diagnostic system for viral infections and biomolecules.

Kinetics and mechanism of the oxidation of alkenes by chromium(VI) in the presence of complexing agents

The catalytic activities of 2,2′-bipyridyl (bipy) and oxalic acid (Oxa) in the HCrO4– oxidation of some substituted trans-cinnamic acids have been investigated in acidic solutions. The Cr(VI)–bipy and Cr(VI)–Oxa complexes are believed to be the probable reactive electrophiles in this redox process. The kinetic data reveal that electron-releasing groups enhance the reactivity to a significant extent while the electron-withdrawing ones reduce the rate marginally. It appears that the mechanism of bipy/Oxa catalysed chromium(VI) oxidation of unsaturated systems to the corresponding cleavage products involves an electrophilic attack of the reactive complex at the C–C double bond. The formation of a ternary complex as an intermediate is envisaged to describe the redox process. In this paper, we also report on the kinetic form of the oxidation of trans-stilbene to methyl 3-hydroxy-2,3-diphenylpropanoate. The mechanistic pathway has been determined based on the kinetic behaviour and the product assignment.

Norfloxacin salts of carboxylic acids curtail planktonic and biofilm mode of growth in ESKAPE pathogens

AIMS

To enhance the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of norfloxacin against the planktonic and biofilm mode of growth in ESKAPE pathogens using chemically modified norfloxacin salts.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Antimicrobial testing, synergy testing and time-kill curve analysis were performed to evaluate antibacterial effect of norfloxacin carboxylic acid salts against ESKAPE pathogens. In vivo efficacy to reduce bacterial bioburden was evaluated in zebrafish infection model. Crystal violet assay and live-dead staining were performed to discern antibiofilm effect. Membrane permeability, integrity and molecular docking studies were carried out to ascertain the mechanism of action. The carboxylic acid salts, relative to parent molecule norfloxacin, displayed two- to fourfold reduction in minimum inhibitory concentration against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in addition to displaying potent bacteriostatic effect against certain members of ESKAPE pathogens. In vivo treatments revealed that norfloxacin tartrate (SRIN2) reduced MRSA bioburden by greater than 1 log fold relative to parent molecule in the muscle tissue. In silico docking with gyrA of S. aureus showed increased affinity of SRIN2 towards DNA gyrase. The enhanced antibacterial effect of norfloxacin salts could be partially accounted by altered membrane permeability in S. aureus and perturbed membrane integrity in P. aeruginosa. Antibiofilm studies revealed that SRIN2 (norfloxacin tartrate) and SRIN3 (norfloxacin benzoate) exerted potent antibiofilm effect particularly against Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens. The impaired colonization of both S. aureus and P. aeruginosa due to improved norfloxacin salts was further supported by live-dead imaging.

CONCLUSION

Norfloxacin carboxylic acid salts can act as potential alternatives in terms of drug resensitization and reuse.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Our study shows that carboxylic acid salts of norfloxacin could be effectively employed to treat both planktonic- and biofilm-based infections caused by select members of ESKAPE pathogens.

Aryl fluoride functionalized graphene oxides for excellent room temperature ammonia sensitivity/selectivity

Herein, we report the covalent functionalization of graphene oxide (GO) through ‘‘click’’ reaction and its applications towards ammonia sensing. This inimitable method of covalent functionalization involves linking GO with azide moiety and click coupling of different derivatives of aryl propargyl ether, which enhances the sensitivity towards ammonia. The functionalized GO were characterized using NMR, XRD, SEM, FT-IR, Raman, UV-Vis, TGA and DSC. Compared to pristine GO, the GO functionalized with Ar samples (GO-Ar) exhibit excellent room temperature ammonia sensing properties with good response/recovery characteristics. It has been observed that 2,3-difluoro and 2,3,4-trifluoro substituted aryl propargyl ether functionalized GO (GO-Ar2 and GO-Ar3) shows superior ammonia sensing with response/recovery of 63%/∼90% and 60%/100%, respectively at 20 ppm. The GO-Ar3 exhibits high sensitivity towards ammonia at 20–100 ppm. Computational studies supports the high sensitivity of GO-Ar towards ammonia due to its high adsorption energy.

Covalent functionalization of graphene oxide (GO) through ‘‘click’’ reaction and its applications towards ammonia sensing has been demonstrated.

Survivability of low pathogenic (H9N2) avian influenza virus in water in the presence of Atyopsis moluccensis (Bamboo shrimp)

Low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV) exhibits an ecological climax with the aquatic ecosystem. The most widely prevalent subtype of LPAIV is H9N2. Wild aquatic birds being the natural reservoirs and ducks, the "Trojan horses" for Avian Influenza Virus (AIV), can contaminate the natural water bodies inhabited by them. The virus can persist in the contaminated water from days to years depending upon the environmental conditions. Various aquatic species other than ducks can promote the persistence and transmission of AIV; however, studies on the role of aquatic fauna in persistence and transmission of avian influenza virus are scarce. This experiment was designed to evaluate the survivability of H9N2 LPAIV in water with and without Atyopsis moluccensis (bamboo shrimp) for a period of 12 days. The infectivity and amount of virus in water were calculated and were found to be significantly higher in water with A. moluccensis than in water without A. moluccensis. The study also showed that A. moluccensis can accumulate the virus mechanically which can infect chicken eggs up to 11 days. The virus transmission potential of A. moluccensis requires further studies.

Infectious dose-dependent accumulation of live highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in chicken skeletal muscle-implications for public health

Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIV) of H5N1 subtype are a major global threat to poultry and public health. Export of poultry products, such as chicken and duck meat, is a known source for the cross-boundary spread of HPAI H5N1 viruses. Humans get infected with HPAI H5N1 viruses either by close contact with infected poultry or through consumption of fresh/undercooked poultry meat. Skeletal muscle is the largest soft tissue in chicken that has been shown to contain virus during systemic HPAIV infection and supports productive virus infection. However, the time between infection of a chicken with H5N1 virus and presence of virus in muscle tissue is not yet known. Further, it is also not clear whether chicken infected with low doses of H5N1 virus that cause non-fatal subclinical infections continue to accumulate virus in skeletal muscle. We investigated the amount and duration of virus detection in skeletal muscle of chicken experimentally infected with different doses (10² , 10³ and 10⁴ EID₅₀ ) of a HPAI H5N1 virus. Influenza viral antigen could be detected as early as 6 hr after infection and live virus was recovered from 48 hr after infection. Notably, chicken infected with lower levels of HPAI H5N1 virus (i.e., 10² EID₅₀ ) did not die acutely, but continued to accumulate high levels of H5N1 virus in skeletal muscle until 6 days post-infection. Our data suggest that there is a potential risk of human exposure to H5N1 virus through meat from clinically healthy chicken infected with a low dose of virus. Our results highlight the need to implement rigorous monitoring systems to screen poultry meat from H5N1 endemic countries to limit the global spread of H5N1 viruses.

Quantitative imaging of anti-phase domains by polarity sensitive orientation mapping using electron backscatter diffraction

Advanced structural characterisation techniques which are rapid to use, non-destructive and structurally definitive on the nanoscale are in demand, especially for a detailed understanding of extended-defects and their influence on the properties of materials. We have applied the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique in a scanning electron microscope to non-destructively characterise and quantify antiphase domains (APDs) in GaP thin films grown on different (001) Si substrates with different offcuts. We were able to image and quantify APDs by relating the asymmetrical intensity distributions observed in the EBSD patterns acquired experimentally and comparing the same with the dynamical electron diffraction simulations. Additionally mean angular error maps were also plotted using automated cross-correlation based approaches to image APDs. Samples grown on substrates with a 4° offcut from the [110] do not show any APDs, whereas samples grown on the exactly oriented substrates contain APDs. The procedures described in our work can be adopted for characterising a wide range of other material systems possessing non-centrosymmetric point groups.

A giant testicular mixed germ cell tumour

We present a case that we believe to be the largest mixed germ cell testicular tumour reported in the United Kingdom. A 23-year-old male was admitted to our urology department with a large scrotal swelling. The patient was found to have a giant left testicular tumour and a solitary lung metastasis at presentation. He underwent an emergency radical orchidectomy and subsequently received four cycles of bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin chemotherapy. Four months after starting treatment, the tumour markers had normalised and a repeat staging computed tomography showed no active disease. The tumour reached that size because of the patient's failure to seek medical attention due to fear and embarrassment.

Non-functioning parathyroid adenoma: a rare differential diagnosis for vocal-cord paralysis

Introduction Adenomas of the parathyroid gland typically present with symptoms of hyperparathyroidism, manifested by fatigue, bone pain, abdominal pain, weakness, dyspepsia, nephrolithiasis and skeletal bone disease. Here, we describe, for the first time, a case of a non-functioning benign tumour of the parathyroid gland presenting as vocal-cord paralysis. Case History A 49-year-old male presented with a 10-week history of dysphonia and the feeling of having 'something stuck in my throat'. History-taking elicited no other associated symptoms. Flexible nasal endoscopy demonstrated paralysis of the left vocal cord. Computed tomography of the neck revealed a cystic lesion, 18mm in diameter adjacent to the oesophagus. After more rigorous tests, a neck exploration, left hemithyroidectomy, excision of the left paratracheal mass and level-VI neck dissection was undertaken, without incident to the patient or surgical team. Histology was consistent with a parathyroid adenoma. Conclusions This case emphasises the importance of including adenomatous disease of the parathyroid gland in the differential diagnosis despite normal parathyroid status as a cause of vocal cord palsy.

Relationship between M100 Auditory Evoked Response and Auditory Radiation Microstructure in 16p11.2 Deletion and Duplication Carriers

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Deletion and duplication of chromosome 16p11.2 (BP4-BP5) have been associated with developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, and deletion subjects exhibit a large (20-ms) delay of the auditory evoked cortical response as measured by magnetoencephalography (M100 latency). The purpose of this study was to use a multimodal approach to test whether changes in white matter microstructure are associated with delayed M100 latency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty pediatric deletion carriers, 9 duplication carriers, and 39 control children were studied with both magnetoencephalography and diffusion MR imaging. The M100 latency and auditory system DTI measures were compared between groups and tested for correlation.

RESULTS

In controls, white matter diffusivity significantly correlated with the speed of the M100 response. However, the relationship between structure and function appeared uncoupled in 16p11.2 copy number variation carriers. The alterations to auditory system white matter microstructure in the 16p11.2 deletion only partially accounted for the 20-ms M100 delay. Although both duplication and deletion groups exhibit abnormal white matter microstructure, only the deletion group has delayed M100 latency.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that gene dosage impacts factors other than white matter microstructure, which modulate conduction velocity.

JAK-STAT and G-protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways are frequently altered in epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma

Epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma (EITL, also known as type II enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma) is an aggressive intestinal disease with poor prognosis and its molecular alterations have not been comprehensively characterized. We aimed to identify actionable easy-to-screen alterations that would allow better diagnostics and/or treatment of this deadly disease. By performing whole-exome sequencing of four EITL tumor-normal pairs, followed by amplicon deep sequencing of 42 tumor samples, frequent alterations of the JAK-STAT and G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathways were discovered in a large portion of samples. Specifically, STAT5B was mutated in a remarkable 63% of cases, JAK3 in 35% and GNAI2 in 24%, with the majority occurring at known activating hotspots in key functional domains. Moreover, STAT5B locus carried copy-neutral loss of heterozygosity resulting in the duplication of the mutant copy, suggesting the importance of mutant STAT5B dosage for the development of EITL. Dysregulation of the JAK-STAT and GPCR pathways was also supported by gene expression profiling and further verified in patient tumor samples. In vitro overexpression of GNAI2 mutants led to the upregulation of pERK1/2, a member of MEK-ERK pathway. Notably, inhibitors of both JAK-STAT and MEK-ERK pathways effectively reduced viability of patient-derived primary EITL cells, indicating potential therapeutic strategies for this neoplasm with no effective treatment currently available.

Expression and purification of recombinant H5HA1 protein of H5N1 avian influenza virus in E. coli and its application in indirect ELISA

The PCR amplified HA1 fragment of H5N1 (H5HA1) avian influenza virus (AIV) hemagglutinin gene was cloned into pET28a (+) expression vector and expressed in Rosetta Blue (DE3) pLysS cells. The recombinant H5HA1 (rH5HA1) protein purified by passive gel elution after SDS-PAGE of the inclusion bodies reacted specifically with H5N1 serum in Western blot analysis. A subtype specific indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) using the rH5HA1 protein as the coating antigen was developed for detecting antibodies to H5 subtype of AIV. The assay had 89.04% sensitivity and 95.95% specificity when compared with haemagglutination inhibition test. The Kappa value of 0.842 indicated a perfect agreement between the tests. The iELISA developed can be used for serosurveillance of avian influenza in chickens.

Iridescent graphene/cellulose nanocrystal film with water response and highly electrical conductivity

The co-assembly of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) and thermal reduced graphene (TRG) leads to composite films with highly ordered, layered structures at submicrometer level, which can be reversibly changed by the hydration or dehydration process.

Amantadine resistance among highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (H5N1) isolated from India

Emergence of antiviral resistance among H5N1 avian influenza viruses is the major challenge in the control of pandemic influenza. Matrix 2 (M2) inhibitors (amantadine and rimantadine) and neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir and zanamivir) are the two classes of antiviral agents that are specifically active against influenza viruses and are used for both treatment and prophylaxis of influenza infections. Amantadine targets the M2 ion channel of influenza A virus and interrupts virus life cycle through blockade of hydrogen ion influx. This prevents uncoating of the virus in infected host cells which impedes the release of ribonucleoprotein required for transcription and replication of virion in the nucleus. The present study was carried out to review the status of amantadine resistance in H5N1 viruses isolated from India and to study their replicative capability. Results of the study revealed resistance to amantadine in antiviral assay among four H5N1 viruses out of which two viruses had Serine 31 Asparagine (AGT-AAT i.e., S31N) mutation and two had Valine 27 Alanine (GTT-GCT i.e., V27A) mutation. The four resistant viruses not only exhibited significant difference in effective concentration 50% (EC50) values of amantadine hydrochloride from that of susceptible viruses (P < 0.0001) but also showed significant difference between two different types (S31N and V27A) of mutant viruses (P < 0.05). Resistance to amantadine could also be demonstrated in a simple HA test after replication of the viruses in MDCK cells in presence of amantadine. The study identifies the correlation between in vitro antiviral assay and presence of established molecular markers of resistance, the retention of replicative capacity in the presence of amantadine hydrochloride by the resistant viruses and the emergence of resistant mutations against amantadine among avian influenza viruses (H5N1) without selective drug pressure.

Spectroscopic investigation (FT-IR, FT-Raman), HOMO-LUMO, NBO analysis and molecular docking study of 4-chlorophenyl quinoline-2-carboxylate

FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of 4-chlorophenyl quinoline-2-carboxylate were recorded and analyzed. The vibrational wavenumbers were computed using DFT quantum chemical calculations. The data obtained from wavenumber calculations are used to assign vibrational bands obtained experimentally. Potential energy distribution was done using GAR2PED program. The geometrical parameters obtained theoretically are in agreement with the XRD data. NBO analysis, HOMO-LUMO, first hyperpolarizability and molecular electrostatic potential results are also reported. The calculated hyperpolarizability of the title compound is 77.53 times that of the standard NLO material urea and the title compound and its derivatives are attractive object for future studies of nonlinear optical properties. Molecular docking results suggest that the compound might exhibit inhibitory activity against GPb.

Vibrational spectroscopic and molecular docking study of 4-Methylphenylquinoline-2-carboxylate

FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra of 4-Methylphenylquinoline-2-carboxylate were recorded and analyzed. The structure of the molecule has been optimized and structural characteristics have been determined by density functional theory. The geometrical parameters (DFT) are in agreement with the XRD results. HOMO and LUMO and other chemical properties are reported. Nonlinear optical properties are also reported. A detailed molecular picture of the title compound and its interactions were obtained from NBO analysis. The negative (red and yellow) regions of the MEP are related to electrophilic reactivity and the positive (blue) regions to nucleophilic reactivity, as shown in the MEP plot and the carbonyl group and the phenyl rings are observed as electrophilic. PASS analysis predicts that the 4-Methylphenylquinoline-2-carboxylate might exhibit anti-diabetic activity. Molecular docking results suggest that the compound might exhibit inhibitory activity against GPb.

Eosinophilic annular erythema: successful response to ultraviolet B therapy

Eosinophilic annular erythema (EAE) is a rare and relatively newly described eosinophil-rich dermatosis. Debate still exists as to whether it represent a subtype of Well syndrome or a separate disease entity. We report an 8-year-old boy with a 4-year history of recurrent, asymptomatic annular lesions, which were diagnosed after clincopathological correlation as EAE. This condition usually runs a relapsing and remitting course with resistance to multiple treatments. Prednisolone and hydroxychloroquine have been reported as successful but the response to these was limited in this case. Complete resolution occurred after treatment with ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a favourable response of EAE to such therapy.

Pathology of a H5N1, highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, in two Indian native chicken breeds and a synthetic broiler line

In this study, susceptibility to H5N1 virus infection was studied in two Indian native chicken breeds viz. Kadaknath and Aseel (Peela) and an Indian synthetic broiler strain (Synthetic dam line (SDL-IC). Fifty birds from each genetic group were infected intra-nasally with 1000 EID50 of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) strain A/chicken/Navapur/India/7972/ 06 (H5N1) and observed for a period of 10 days. Significant differences in severity of clinical signs, gross lesions and time for onset of symptoms were observed. The overall severity of clinical signs and gross lesions was less in SDL-IC broilers as compared to the other two genetic groups. The mortality percentages were 100, 98 and 92% with Mean Death Time (MDT) of 3.12, 5.92 and 6.96 days, respectively for the two native breeds Kadaknath and Aseel (Peela), the and SDL-IC broiler strain. Comparison of histological lesions revealed differences in disease progression among the genetic groups. Vascular lesions such as disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) were predominant on 3 days post infection (dpi) in Kadaknath, and on 5 and 6 dpi in Aseel (Peela) and SDL-IC broiler. The mean log2 HA titres of the re-isolated virus from various organs of H5N1 AIV infected birds of the three genetic groups ranged from 2.32 (lung, trachea and bursa) to 5.04 (spleen) in Kadaknath; 2.32 (lung) to 6.68 (brain) in Aseel (Peela); and 2.06 (liver) to 7.01 (lungs and kidney) in SDL-IC broiler. These results suggest that the susceptibility to H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus infection differed among the three breeds; Kadaknath being highest followed by Aseel (Peela) and synthetic SDL-IC broiler. This is possibly the first report on the differences in the susceptibility of the India native breeds to H5N1 virus infection and its severity.

An ionic liquid catalyzed reusable protocol for one-pot synthesis of 2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one under mild conditions

This article describes an efficient protocol for the syntheses of 2,3-dihydroquinazolinones. The synthetic utility of this methodology has been demonstrated with 30 different substrates. The reaction showed good functional group tolerance and high levels of catalytic activity.

Influence of thermal processing on the volatile constituents of muskmelon puree

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L) is an important tropical fruit cultivated widely in different parts of India. Fresh muskmelon has a delicate but characteristic flavor rendering the fruit with highly acceptable flavor. Processing and preservation of muskmelon puree requires thermal processing, which affects the volatile constituents. It is imperative to understand the flavor changes during thermal processing which would affect the quality of the processed and packed muskmelon puree. Muskmelon puree was subjected to different methods of thermal processing viz., heating, canning and packing in retort pouches and the volatile constituents were analyzed. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) indicated the presence of more than 49 volatile components in the muskmelon puree samples. Major volatile components identified using GC-MS analysis showed the presence of esters (27.29 %), aldehydes (18.57 %), Heterocyclic compounds (16.63 %), aliphatic alcohols (11.72 %), phenolic compounds (6.03 %) and sesquiterpenes (0.25 %) in the fresh samples. Aldehydes decreased and ester content increased in thermally processed muskmelon puree packed in cans and retort pouches. Aliphatic alcohols, Heterocyclic compounds and phenolic compounds decreased in puree processed in tin containers and retort pouches.

2,5-Di-methyl-phenyl quinoline-2-carboxy-l-ate

In the title compound, C₁₈H₁₅NO₂, the dihedral angle between the mean planes of the quinoline ring system and the phenyl ring is 78.8 (1)°. The mean plane of the carboxyl­ate group is twisted from the mean planes of the quinoline ring system and phenyl ring by 1.5 (9) and 77.6 (4)°, respectively. In the crystal, mol­ecules are linked by weak C—H⋯O inter­actions, generating C(8) chains along [001]. Weak π–π stacking inter­actions are also observed [centroid–centroid separation = 3.6238 (12) Å].

2-Isopropyl-5-methyl-cyclo-hexyl quinoline-2-carboxyl-ate

In the title compound, C20H25NO2, the cyclo-hexyl ring adopts a slightly disordered chair conformation. The dihedral angle between the mean planes of the quinoline ring and the carboxyl-ate group is 22.2 (6)°. In the crystal, weak C-H⋯N inter-actions make chains along [010].

Scientific Insights in the Preparation and Characterisation of a Lead-based Naga Bhasma

Naga bhasma is one of the herbo-metallic preparations used in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian System of Medicine. The preparation of Naga bhasma involves thermal treatment of 'Naga' (metallic lead) in a series of quenching liquids, followed by reaction with realgar and herbal constituents, before calcination to prepare a fine product. We have analysed the intermediates obtained during different stages of preparation to understand the relevance and importance of different steps involved in the preparation. Our results show that 'Sodhana' (purification process) removes heavy metals other than lead, apart from making it soft and amenable for trituration. The use of powders of tamarind bark and peepal bark maintains the oxidation state of lead in Jarita Naga (lead oxide) as Pb(2+). The repeated calcination steps result in the formation of nano-crystalline lead sulphide, the main chemical species present in Naga bhasma.

4-Chloro-phenyl quinoline-2-carboxyl-ate

In the title compound, C₁₆H₁₀ClNO₂, the dihedral angle between the quinoline ring system and the benzene ring is 14.7 (5)°. The carboxyl­ate group is twisted from the mean planes of the quinoline ring system and the benzene ring by 17.7 (5) and 32.1 (4)°, respectively. In the crystal, inversion dimers are formed with the molecules linked by pairs of weak C—H⋯O inter­actions arising from an activated aromatic C atom adjacent to the C—Cl bond, generating R₂²(14) loops.

3,4-Di-methyl-phenyl quinoline-2-carboxyl-ate

In the title compound, C₁₈H₁₅NO₂, the dihedral angle between the mean planes of the quinoline ring system and the phenyl ring is 48.1 (5)°. The mean plane of the carboxyl­ate group is twisted from the mean planes of the latter by 19.8 (8) and 64.9 (5)°, respectively. The crystal packing features weak C—H⋯O inter­actions, which form chains along [010].

4-Chloro-3-methyl-phenyl quinoline-2-carboxyl-ate

In the title compound, C₁₇H₁₂ClNO₂, the dihedral angle between the mean planes of the quinoline ring system and the benzene ring is 68.7 (7)°. The mean plane of the carboxyl­ate group is twisted from the latter planes by 14.0 (1) and 80.2 (4)°, respectively. In the crystal, weak C—H⋯O inter­actions are observed, forming chains along [001]. In addition, π–π stacking inter­actions [centroid–centroid distances = 3.8343 (13) and 3.7372 (13)Å] occur. No classical hydrogen bonds were observed.

Luminescent one-dimensional nanostructures of perylene bisimides

Perylene bisimides form a unique class of organic semiconductors, in this investigation two symmetrical perylene bisimides caped with 1-butyl (B-PTCDI) and 4,4-diethoxybutyl (DB-PTCDI) have been synthesized and characterized. The compounds self-assembled as a network of nanobelts and nanorods in the solution based self-assembly process. Morphologies of these self-assembled structures were characterized by optical, fluorescence, scanning and transmission electronic microscopic techniques. One-dimensional self-assemblies of B-PTCDI and DB-PTCDI molecules are due to the strong π-π stacking ability of perylene core and assistance given by the side chains and solvent. Observed molecular self-assembly and electronic properties of the molecules. The observed self-assembly was supported by molecular modeling studies using density functional theory.

Prevalence of dental fluorosis among primary school children in rural areas of chidambaram taluk, cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, India

Background:

Fluorosis is one of the common but major emerging areas of research in the tropics. It is considered endemic in 17 states of India. However, the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu is categorised as a fluorosis non-endemic area. But clinical cases of dental fluorosis were reported in the field practice area of Department of Community Medicine, Rajah Muthiah Medical College, Annamalai University, Chidambaram. Since dental fluorosis has been described as a biomarker of exposure to fluoride, we assessed the prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis among primary school children in the service area.

Materials and Methods:

Children studying in six primary schools of six villages in the field practice area of Rural Health Centre of Faculty of Medicine, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, were surveyed. Every child was clinically examined at the school by calibrated examiners with Dean's fluorosis index recommended by WHO (1997). Chi-square test, Chi-square trend test and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient test were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Five hundred and twenty-five 5- to 12-year-old school children (255 boys and 270 girls) were surveyed. The overall dental fluorosis prevalence was found to be 31.4% in our study sample. Dental fluorosis increased with age P < 0.001, whereas gender difference was not statistically significant. Aesthetically objectionable dental fluorosis was found in 2.1% of the sample. Villages Senjicherry, Keezhaperambai and Kanagarapattu revealed a community fluorosis index (CFI) score of 0.43, 0.54 and 0.54 with 5.6%, 4.8% and 1.4% of objectionable dental fluorosis, respectively. Correlation between water fluoride content and CFI values in four villages was noted to be positively significant.

Conclusion:

Three out of six villages studied were in ‘borderline’ public health significance (CFI score 0.4-0.6). A well-designed epidemiological investigation can be undertaken to evaluate the risk factors associated with the condition in the study region.

IL-17 induces expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule through signalling pathway of NF-κB, but not Akt1 and TAK1 in vascular smooth muscle cells

Interleukin-17 (IL-17) plays an important role in several autoimmune diseases. IL-17 can induce the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), which is important for the development of atherosclerosis. However, the signalling pathway of IL-17-induced VCAM-1 expression remains unclear. In this study, we reported that IL-17-induced expression of VCAM-1 in SMCs is dependent on NF-κB, but independent of Akt1 and TAK1. This is because knocking down Akt1 or TAK1 by siRNA did not reduce IL-17-induced activation of NF-κB and expression of VCAM-1, whereas knocking down NF-κB by siRNA markedly inhibited IL-17-mediated upregulation of VCAM-1 expression. In addition, IL-17-induced expression of VCAM-1 is partially dependent on activation of ERK1/2. Therefore, these signalling pathways of IL-17-mediated upregulation of VCAM-1 expression might be therapeutic targets for treatment of IL-17-mediated inflammation.