Rational design of thiazolidine-4-one-gallic acid hybrid derivatives as selective partial PPARγ modulators: an in-silico approach for type 2 diabetes treatment

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a bipolar metabolic disorder characterized by abnormalities in insulin production from β-cells and insulin resistance. Thiazolidinediones are potent anti-diabetic agents that act through the modulation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a nuclear receptor. However, their full agonistic activity leads to severe side effects by stabilizing Helix12 through strong hydrogen bonding with the TYR473 residue. Partial and selective PPARγ modulators (GW0072, GQ16, VSP-51, MRL-20, MBX-213, INT131) have demonstrated superior results compared to full agonists without causing adverse effects, as reported in existing data. To address this uncertainty and advance therapeutic options, we identified and designed a novel class of compounds (A1-A23) based on a hybrid structure combining phenolic and Thiazolidine-4-one's moieties. Our rational drug design strategy incorporated structural-activity relationship principle, and validated the docking studies through calculated the root mean square deviation. Additionally, we conducted molecular docking, binding energy, molecular dynamics simulations, and post-molecular dynamics calculations to evaluate the dynamics behavior between the ligands and protein. The selected ligands demonstrated highly favorable docking scores and binding energies, comparable to the co-crystal (rosiglitazone) such as A12 (-13.9 kcal/mol and -86.2 kcal/mol), A1 (-11.1 kcal/mol and -79.5 kcal/mol), A13 (-11.3 kcal/mol and -91.4 kcal/mol), and the co-crystal itself (-9.8 kcal/mol and -76 kcal/mol), respectively. Finally, the MD revealed that, the selected ligands were equally contributed for stabilization of Helix12 and β-sheets. It was concluded, the designed ligands (A12, A1, and A13) exhibited weaker hydrogen-bond interactions with specific residue TYR473 which partially modulated the PPARγ protein.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Inorganic Nanoparticles as Radiosensitizers for Cancer Treatment

Nanotechnology has expanded what can be achieved in our approach to cancer treatment. The ability to produce and engineer functional nanoparticle formulations to elicit higher incidences of tumor cell radiolysis has resulted in substantial improvements in cancer cell eradication while also permitting multi-modal biomedical functionalities. These radiosensitive nanomaterials utilize material characteristics, such as radio-blocking/absorbing high-Z atomic number elements, to mediate localized effects from therapeutic irradiation. These materials thereby allow subsequent scattered or emitted radiation to produce direct (e.g., damage to genetic materials) or indirect (e.g., protein oxidation, reactive oxygen species formation) damage to tumor cells. Using nanomaterials that activate under certain physiologic conditions, such as the tumor microenvironment, can selectively target tumor cells. These characteristics, combined with biological interactions that can target the tumor environment, allow for localized radio-sensitization while mitigating damage to healthy cells. This review explores the various nanomaterial formulations utilized in cancer radiosensitivity research. Emphasis on inorganic nanomaterials showcases the specific material characteristics that enable higher incidences of radiation while ensuring localized cancer targeting based on tumor microenvironment activation. The aim of this review is to guide future research in cancer radiosensitization using nanomaterial formulations and to detail common approaches to its treatment, as well as their relations to commonly implemented radiotherapy techniques.

Nanotechnology enabled radioprotectants to reduce space radiation-induced reactive oxidative species

Interest in space exploration has seen substantial growth following recent launch and operation of modern space technologies. In particular, the possibility of travel beyond low earth orbit is seeing sustained support. However, future deep space travel requires addressing health concerns for crews under continuous, longer-term exposure to adverse environmental conditions. Among these challenges, radiation-induced health issues are a major concern. Their potential to induce chronic illness is further potentiated by the microgravity environment. While investigations into the physiological effects of space radiation are still under investigation, studies on model ionizing radiation conditions, in earth and micro-gravity conditions, can provide needed insight into relevant processes. Substantial formation of high, sustained reactive oxygen species (ROS) evolution during radiation exposure is a clear threat to physiological health of space travelers, producing indirect damage to various cell structures and requiring therapeutic address. Radioprotection toward the skeletal system components is essential to astronaut health, due to the high radio-absorption cross-section of bone mineral and local hematopoiesis. Nanotechnology can potentially function as radioprotectant and radiomitigating agents toward ROS and direct radiation damage. Nanoparticle compositions such as gold, silver, platinum, carbon-based materials, silica, transition metal dichalcogenides, and ceria have all shown potential as viable radioprotectants to mitigate space radiation effects with nanoceria further showing the ability to protect genetic material from oxidative damage in several studies. As research into space radiation-induced health problems develops, this review intends to provide insights into the nanomaterial design to ameliorate pathological effects from ionizing radiation exposure. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Cells at the Nanoscale Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease.

Characterization of Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei causing Hepatopancreatic microsporidiosis in L. vannamei and a new molecular method for its detection in shrimps, and other environmental samples

Hepatopancreatic microsporidiosis (HPM) caused by Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) is a disease of utmost concern in almost all shrimp growing countries. The pathogen was characterized by ultramicrography, histopathology and phylogenetic analysis of 18srDNA. A total of 183 biological samples were collected from all major shrimp growing states of the country.The histology technique could be used very well in identifying the site of infection and can aid in diagnosis of EHP. Wet mount and Ultramicrography were employed to observe the structure of spores. A single step PCR based method was developed for detecting the pathogen from variety of DNA samples including shrimp and non-shrimp sources.The developed PCR assay proved to be a robust and reliable technique to detect EHP in shrimps and environmental samples and for assessing the distribution of pathogen within geographical zones, thus aid in mitigating the disease. The PCR primers was also used to generate DIG labelled probe which was successful in binding to the EHP infected cells in HP of shrimp. The presence of pathogen was confirmed from many non-shrimp environmental samples suggests that they could act as reservoirs for recurrent infection in shrimp ponds. Proper control of these reservoirs will be the first step in recovering an EHP affected pond back to normal.

Potent Inactivation of Human Respiratory Viruses Including SARS-CoV-2 by a Photoactivated Self-Cleaning Regenerative Antiviral Coating

The COVID-19 pandemic marks an inflection point in the perception and treatment of human health. Substantial resources have been reallocated to address the direct medical effects of COVID-19 and to curtail the spread of the virus. Thereby, shortcomings of traditional disinfectants, especially their requirement for regular reapplication and the related complications (e.g., dedicated personnel and short-term activity), have become issues at the forefront of public health concerns. This issue became especially pressing when infection-mitigating supplies dwindled early in the progression of the pandemic. In consideration of the constant threat posed by emerging novel viruses, we report a platform technology for persistent surface disinfection to combat virus transmission through nanomaterial-mediated, localized UV radiation emission. In this work, two formulations of Y2SiO5-based visible-to-UV upconversion nanomaterials were developed using a facile sol-gel-based synthesis. Our formulations have shown substantial antiviral activities (4 × 104 to 0 TCID50 units in 30 min) toward an enveloped, circulating human coronavirus strain (OC43) under simple white light exposure as an analogue to natural light or common indoor lighting. Additionally, we have shown that our two formulations greatly reduce OC43 RNA recovery from surfaces. Antiviral activities were further demonstrated toward a panel of structurally diverse viruses including enveloped viruses, SARS-CoV-2, vaccinia virus, vesicular stomatitis virus, parainfluenza virus, and Zika virus, as well as nonenveloped viruses, rhinovirus, and calicivirus, as evidence of the technology's broad antiviral activity. Remarkably, one formulation completely inactivated 105 infectious units of SARS-CoV-2 in only 45 min. The detailed technology has implications for the design of more potent, long-lived disinfectants and modified/surface-treated personal protective equipment targeting a wide range of viruses.

Prevalence of elevated blood lead levels and risk factors among children living in Patna, Bihar, India 2020

Childhood lead exposure remains a key health concern for officials worldwide, contributing some 600,000 new cases of intellectually disabled children annually. Most children affected by high exposure to lead live in low- and middle-income countries. The leaded gasoline phase out in India was completed in 2000. Yet, in 2020, an estimated 275 million children aged 0 to 9 years had blood lead levels (BLLs) ≥ 5 μg/dL known to adversely affect intelligence and behavior. Lead sources reported in India include spices, cookware, paint, traditional medicines and cosmetics, and lead-acid battery recycling and repair. However, their relative contribution has not been characterized. More than 200 lead pollution sites related to battery recycling and repair activities were identified in Bihar and Jharkhand, India. Ninety percent of the recycling sites had soil lead concentrations exceeding the US Environmental Protection Agency's standards. We compared blood and environmental lead levels in two groups of children in Patna, Bihar. Households in proximity to battery recycling operations (Proximal n = 67) versus households distal to these operations (Distal n = 68). The average age of children was 40 months; 46% were female. Overall, the geometric mean (GM) BLL was 11.6 μg/dL. GM BLLs of children in Proximal and Distal households were not significantly different (10.2 μg/dL vs. 13.1 μg/dL respectively; p≤0.07). About 87% children, 56 Proximal and 62 Distal had BLLs ≥5 μg/dl. Lead concentrations in environmental samples were significantly higher in Proximal households (soil mean 9.8 vs. 1.6 μg/ft2; dust mean 52.9 vs. 29.9 μg/ft2 p<0.001; Proximal vs. Distal respectively) whereas concentrations in all spices were higher in Distal households (mean 46.8 vs 134.5 ppm p<0.001; Proximal vs. Distal respectively), and turmeric (mean 59.4 vs. 216.9 ppm Proximal vs. Distal respectively). In multivariate analyses for all children lead in spices and turmeric and number of rooms in the house were significant while for the Proximal group only lead in spices remained in the model. The predictive value of these models was poor. For the Distal group, a model with lead concentration in spices, turmeric and soil and number of rooms in the house was a much better fit. Of the 34 water samples collected, 7 were above the Indian standard of 10 ppb for lead in drinking water (2 in the Proximal area, 5 in the Distal area). Children in Patna, Bihar, India are exposed to multiple sources of lead, with lead levels in house dust and loose, locally sourced spices the most likely to increase blood lead levels. A holistic approach to blood lead testing and source identification and remediation are necessary to prevent lead exposure.

Nanoparticle mediated RNA delivery for wound healing

Wound healing is a complicated physiological process that comprises various steps, including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The wound healing process is significantly affected by coexisting disease states such as diabetes, immunosuppression, or vascular disease. It can also be impacted by age, repeated injury, or hypertrophic scarring. These comorbidities can affect the rate of wound closure, the quality of wound closure, and tissues' function at the affected sites. There are limited options to improve the rate or quality of wound healing, creating a significant unmet need. Advances in nucleic acid research and the human genome project have developed potential novel approaches to address these outstanding requirements. In particular, the use of microRNA, short hairpin RNA, and silencing RNA is unique in their abilities as key regulators within the physiologic machinery of the cell. Although this innovative therapeutic approach using ribonucleic acid (RNA) is an attractive approach, the application as a therapeutic remains a challenge due to site-specific delivery, off-target effects, and RNA degradation obstacles. An ideal delivery system is essential for successful gene delivery. An ideal delivery system should result in high bioactivity, inhibit rapid dilution, controlled release, allow specific activation timings facilitating physiological stability, and minimize multiple dosages. Currently, these goals can be achieved by inorganic nanoparticle (NP) (e.g., cerium oxide, gold, silica, etc.) based delivery systems. This review focuses on providing insight into the preeminent research carried out on various RNAs and their delivery through NPs for effective wound healing. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Nucleic Acid-Based Structures.

Cerium oxide nanomaterial with dual antioxidative scavenging potential: Synthesis and characterization

Many studies have linked reactive oxygen species (ROS) to various diseases. Biomedical research has therefore sought a way to control and regulate ROS produced in biological systems. In recent years, cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria, CNPs) have been pursued due to their ability to act as regenerative ROS scavengers. In particular, they are shown to have either superoxide dismutase (SOD) or catalase mimetic (CAT) potential depending on the ratio of Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ valence states. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that SOD mimetic activity can be diminished by the presence of phosphate, which can be a problem given that many biological systems operate in a phosphate-rich environment. Herein, we report a CNP formulation with both SOD and catalase mimetic activity that is preserved in a phosphate-rich media. Characterization demonstrated a highly dispersed, stable solution of uniform-sized, spherical-elliptical shaped CNP of 12 ± 2 nm, as determined through dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy. Mixed valence states of Ce ions were observed via UV/Visible spectroscopy and XPS (Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ > 1) (Ce³⁺∼ 62%). X-ray diffraction and XPS confirmed the presence of oxygen-deficient cerium oxide (CeO_2-x) particles. Finally, the CNP demonstrated very good biocompatibility and efficient reduction of hydrogen peroxide under in-vitro conditions.

Development and validation of a sensitive LC-MS/MS method for pioglitazone: application towards pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution study in rats

In the present study, a sensitive LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated to measure pioglitazone (PGZ) concentrations in rat plasma and tissues. The chromatographic separation was achieved by using a YMC Pro C₁₈ column (100 mm × 4.6 mm, 3μ) with a mobile phase consisting of formic acid (0.1% v/v) and acetonitrile (5 : 95) at a flow rate of 0.7 mL min⁻¹ and injection volume of 10 μL (IS: rosiglitazone). Mass spectrometric detection was done using triple quadrupole mass spectrometry using the ESI interface operating in a positive ionization mode. The developed method was validated over a linearity range of 1–500 ng mL⁻¹ with detection and a lower quantification limit of 0.5 ng mL⁻¹ and 1 ng mL⁻¹. The method accuracy ranged from 95.89–98.78% (inter-day) & 93.39–97.68% (intra-day) with a precision range of 6.09–8.12% for inter-day & 7.55–9.87% for intra-day, respectively. The PGZ shows the highest C_max of 495.03 ng mL⁻¹ in plasma and the lowest C_max, 24.50 ± 2.71 ng mL⁻¹ in bone. The maximum T_max of 5.00 ± 0.49 h was observed in bone and a minimum of 1.01 ± 0.05 h in plasma. The AUC_{(0–24 h and 0–∞)} values are highest in plasma (1056.58 ± 65.78 & 1069.38 ± 77.50 ng h⁻¹ mL⁻¹) and lowest in brain (166.93 ± 15.70 &167.12 ± 16.77 ng h⁻¹ mL⁻¹), and the T_1/2 was highest in plasma (5.62 ± 0.74 h) and lowest in kidney (2.78 ± 0.19). The developed method was successfully used to measure the PGZ pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution. Further, the developed method could be utilized for validating target organ (adipose tissue) specific delivery of PGZ (nano-formulations) in addition to conventional dosage forms.

The developed method was investigated for target and off-target distribution of pioglitazone and could be applied to validate the site-specific delivery systems.

A sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method for quantitative bioanalysis of fingolimod in human blood: Application to pharmacokinetic study

A simple and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method has been developed and validated for the determination of fingolimod in human blood. The analyte and internal standard fingolimod-d4 were extracted from 300 μl of human blood using protein precipitation coupled with solid-phase extraction method. The chromatographic separation was achieved with a Kinetex biphenyl column (100 × 4.6 mm, 2.6 μm) under isocratic conditions at the flow rate of 0.8 ml/min and column temperature was maintained at 45°C. The detection of analyte and internal standard was carried out by tandem mass spectrometry, operated in positive ion and multiple reaction monitoring acquisition mode. The method was fully validated for its selectivity, precision, accuracy, linearity, stability, detection and quantification limit. The extraction recovery of fingolimod in human blood ranged from 98.39 to 99.54%. The developed method was linear over the concentration range of 5-2500 pg/ml with a detection limit of 1 pg/ml. The developed method was validated and successfully applied for pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of fingolimod capsules.

Review of pesticide residue analysis in fruits and vegetables. Pre-treatment, extraction and detection techniques

A wide variety of pesticides have been used in agriculture to increase the yield, quality and extend the storage life of crops. However, the use of pesticide has been increased now a day due to the ever-increasing population and rapid urbanization. The continuous uses of these pesticides have resulted in contamination of the environment, crops and also caused potential risk to human health. For this reason, strict regulations are developed and regulated to monitor these compounds. To date, several techniques have been developed for the extraction and detection of pesticides, from traditional to advanced detection techniques. The present study delineates a comprehensive up to date overview of the available traditional methods (gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with various detector) to advanced pre-treatment (polystyrene-coated magnetic nanoparticle) and detection (sensor development and nanotechnology) techniques used in the analysis of pesticides residue in various fruits and vegetables. Also, categorization of pesticides and its toxicity have been discussed.

15 Structured Geriatric Liaison Services in Mental Health Inpatient Facilities

Introduction

Older people admitted to mental health facilities may be at increased risk of deterioration in the physical co-morbidities and increased rates of mortality when admitted in acute medical settings. Our model of care focuses on intervening in the physical aspect of patients admitted in the mental health unit addressing their comorbidities and polypharmacy and offering staff support during the admission process. Our Older Mental Health Unit is based in the district hospital with a total of 22 beds for people over 65 years old distributed in two areas: dementia with behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPS) and functional disorders.

Methods

Allocated geriatrician once a week to attend MDT and medical ward rounds. 5 working days telephone consultations for advice and supporting trainees in teaching and research. We measure the impact of our intervention comparing the data predating our intervention comparing 20 patients in each period 2016 and 2018.

Results

Mean age increased from 74.3 to 77.8 in a two year period with an average of 3.5 medical co-morbidities. Reduction in polypharmacy from 7.15 to 5.5 number of medication, 58% reduction in the number of hospital transfers and 90% reduction in specialty referrals.

Conclusions

Structured Geriatric Liaison Services in Mental Health in inpatient facilities are shown to be effective in reducing acute hospital and outpatient clinic attendances minimising the challenges of management of these patients in non-mental health facilities.

Development and validation of a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric method for the determination of lenalidomide in human plasma and its application on bioequivalence studies

A simple, sensitive, and specific liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrophotometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the quantification of lenalidomide in human plasma. The separation was carried out on a symmetry, C18, 5-μm (50 × 4.6 mm) column as stationary phase and with an isocratic mobile phase of 0.1% formic acid in water-methanol in the ratio of (15:85, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. Protonated ions formed by electrospray ionization in the positive mode were used to detect analyte and fluconazole (internal standard). The mass detection was made by monitoring the fragmentation of m/z 260.1/148.8 for lenalidomide and m/z 307.1/238.0 for internal standard on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The developed method was validated over the concentration range of 10–1000 ng/mL for lenalidomide in human plasma with a correlation coefficient (r2) was 0.9930. The accuracy and precision values obtained from six different sets of quality control samples analyzed on separate occasions ranged from 99.41 to 106.97% and 2.88 to 4.22%, respectively. Mean extraction recoveries were 98.06% and 88.78% for the analyte and IS, respectively. The developed method was successfully applied for analyzing lenalidomide in human plasma samples.

Impact of Cu doping on the structural, morphological and optical activity of V2O5 nanorods for photodiode fabrication and their characteristics

In this paper, we report a wet chemical precipitation method used to synthesize pure and Cu-doped V2O5 nanorods with different doping concentrations (Cu x V2O5 where x = 3, 5 or 7 at%), followed by annealing at 600 °C and characterizations using several techniques. Indeed, a growth mechanism explaining the morphological evolution under the experimental conditions is also proposed. The XRD patterns revealed that all of the studied samples consist of a single V2O5 phase and are well crystallized with a preferential orientation towards the (200) direction. The presence of intrinsic defects and internal stresses in the lattice structure of the Cu x V2O5 samples has been substantiated by detailed analysis of the XRD. Apart from the doping level, there was an assessment of identical tiny peaks attributed to the formation of a secondary phase of CuO. SEM images confirmed the presence of agglomerated particles on the surface; the coverage increased with Cu doping level. XPS spectral analysis showed that Cu in the V5+ matrix exists mainly in the Cu2+ state on the surface. The appearance of satellite peaks in the Cu 2p spectra, however, provided definitive evidence for the presence of Cu2+ ions in these studied samples as well. Doping-induced PL quenching was observed due to the absorption of energy from defect emission in the V5+ lattice by Cu2+ ions. We have proposed a cost-effective, less complicated but effective way of synthesizing pure and doped samples in colloidal form, deposited by the nebulizer spray technique on p-Si to establish junction diodes with enhanced optoelectronic properties.

Determination of Midodrine and its Active Metabolite Desglymidodrine by LC-MS/MS and its Application in Human Pharmacokinetic Studies

Background:

Midodrine (MD) is a prodrug which is converted into Desglymidodrine (DMD) after oral administration. </P><P> Objective: The aim of the present study is to develop and validate a precise, accurate liquid chromatography- tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) method for the separation and detection of Midodrine and Desglymidodrine.

Methods:

The quantification of prodrug Midodrine (MD) and its active metabolite Desglymidodrine (DMD) in human plasma was performed using simple and economical protein precipitation method. Caffeine was used as an internal standard (IS). LC separation was carried out using Jones C18 column (4.6mm x 150mm, 3µm). Isocratic elution was performed using 10mM ammonium formate (pH 4.0 adjusted with formic acid): methanol 30:70, v/v as a mobile phase, at a constant of flow of 0.5 ml/min.

Results:

Mass spectrometric detection was carried out at positive electrospray ionization with proton adducts at m/z 255.0˃237.1, 198.1˃180.2 and 195.0˃138.1 for Midodrine, Desglymidodrine and caffeine (IS) respectively, in MRM mode. The method was validated over a linear concentration range of 0.3-110 ng/ml (r2 =0.996 and r2 =0.9988) for both Midodrine and Desglymidodrine. The recovery of Midodrine and Desglymidodrine were found to be 99 ± 0.12%. The precision (intra-day and inter-day) and accuracy studies fulfilled the acceptance criteria.

Conclusion:

The method shows to be stable for the studied stability parameters and was successfully applied for clinical pharmacokinetic studies.

Molecular Epidemiology of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae Causing Bacterial Leaf Spot of Watermelon and Squash in Florida

From 2013 to 2014, bacterial leaf spot epidemics incited by Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae affected an estimated 3,000 ha of watermelon and squash in Florida, and caused foliar blighting and transplant losses in severely affected fields. To investigate the diversity of the causal agent, we isolated 28 P. syringae strains from diseased plants grown in 10 Florida and Georgia counties over the course of 2 years. Strains were confirmed as P. syringae through sequence analysis of the 16S ribosomal RNA, phenotypic, and biochemical profiling; however, 20 displayed an atypical phenotype by exhibiting nonfluorescent activity on King's medium B agar and being negative for ice-nucleating activity. Multilocus sequence analysis and BOX polymerase chain reaction revealed the presence of two haplotypes among the collected strains that grouped into two distinct clades within P. syringae phylogroup 2. Pathogenicity testing showed that watermelon, cantaloupe, and squash seedlings were susceptible to a majority of these strains. Although both haplotypes were equally virulent on cantaloupe, they differed in virulence on watermelon and squash. The distribution of one haplotype in 9 of 10 Florida and Georgia counties sampled indicated that these epidemics were associated with the recent introduction of a novel clonal P. syringae lineage throughout major watermelon production areas in Florida.

Towards the Total Synthesis of Schisandrene: Stereoselective Synthesis of the Dibenzocyclooctadiene Lignan Core

A stereoselective synthesis of the dibenzocyclooctadiene ­lignan core of the natural product schisandrene is described. Starting from readily available gallic acid, the synthetic strategy involves Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling, Stille reaction, and ring-closing metathesis (RCM) in the reaction sequence. The required asymmetric center at C-7′ was established by an asymmetric reduction of a keto compound using the Corey–Bakshi–Shibata (CBS) catalyst. In our approach, the eight-membered ring was achieved by RCM for the first time.

Epidemiology and management of bacterial leaf spot on watermelon caused by Pseudomonas syringae

Bacterial leaf spot of watermelon caused by Pseudomonas syringae has been an emerging disease in the southeastern United States in recent years. Disease outbreaks in Florida were widespread from 2013 to 2014 and resulted in foliar blighting at the early stages of the crop and transplant losses. We conducted a series of field trials at two locations over the course of two years to examine the chemical control options that may be effective in management of this disease, and to investigate the environmental conditions conducive for bacterial leaf spot development. Weekly applications of acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) foliar, ASM drip, or copper hydroxide mixed with ethylene bis-dithiocarbamate were effective in reducing the standardized area under the disease progress curve (P < 0.05). Pearson's correlation test demonstrated a negative relationship between the average weekly temperature and disease severity (-0.77, P = 0.0002). When incorporated into a multiple regression model with the square root transformed average weekly rainfall, these two variables accounted for 71% of the variability observed in the weekly disease severity (P < 0.0001). This information should be considered when choosing the planting date for watermelon seedlings as the cool conditions often encountered early in the spring season are conducive for bacterial leaf spot development.

Identification and characterization of two novel genomic RNA segments RNA5 and RNA6 in rose rosette virus infecting roses

Rose rosette virus (RRV), a negative-strand RNA virus belonging to the genus Emaravirus, has recently been characterized to be the causal agent of rose rosette disease. Roses showing typical symptoms of RRV collected from a rose nursery in Florida were subjected to reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) assay using primers corresponding to the conserved inverted 13 nucleotide long stretches found at the termini of the RRV genomic RNA segments. RT-PCR analysis yielded two novel genomic RNA segments, RNA5 and RNA6, in addition to the previously identified four RNA segments. The RNA5 is 1650 bp long and encodes for a polypeptide of 465 amino acids (54.3 K), while RNA6 is 1400 bp long and encodes for a polypeptide of 233 amino acids (27.05 K). RACE analysis showed that, both the RNA segments posses at their 5' and 3' termini, stretches of conserved inverted complementary13 nucleotides long sequence with two nucleotide mismatches as previously identified in other genomic RNA segments. Northern blot analysis as well as RT-PCR using specific primers showed the presence of the novel genomic RNA segments in infected plants, but absent in the non-infected plants. The GenBank Acc. Nos. for the sequences reported in this paper are KT007556 and KT007557.

Angular Leaf Spot of Cucurbits is Associated With Genetically Diverse Pseudomonas syringae Strains

Angular leaf spot of cucurbits is generally considered to be caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. lachrymans. It has a worldwide distribution and has been observed to emerge sporadically under humid and wet conditions. Reports of multiple P. syringae pathovars associated with the disease and lack of molecular analysis has left the true diversity of populations in the United States unclear. In this study, we collected 27 P. syringae strains causing foliar lesions and blighting on watermelon, cantaloupe, and squash in Florida, Georgia, and California over several years. Strains were fluorescent on King's medium B agar and displayed the typical phenotypic and biochemical characteristics of P. syringae. P. syringae pv. lachrymans is a member of genomospecies 2. However, the genetic profiles obtained through both MLSA (gyrB, rpoD, gapA, and gltA) and BOX-PCR (BOXA1R) identified 26 of the P. syringae strains to be distributed among three clades within genomospecies 1, and phylogenetically distinct from genomospecies 2 member P. syringae pv. lachrymans. A novel MLSA haplotype of the pathogen common to all states and cucurbit hosts was identified. Considerable genetic diversity among P. syringae strains infecting cucurbits is associated with the same disease, and reflects the larger ecological diversity of P. syringae populations from genomospecies 1.

Growth, physicochemical and quantum chemical investigations on 2-amino 5-chloropyridinium 4-carboxybutanoate – an organic crystal for biological and optoelectronic device applications

Optically transparent organic single crystals of 2-amino 5-chloropyridinium 4-carboxybutanoate (2A5C4C) with sizes of 7 × 4 × 2 mm³ were grown by a slow evaporation solution growth technique at room temperature using methanol solvent.

Audit of preoperative localisation of tumor with tattoo for patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

Preoperative localisation of tumour is an essential requirement in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Since the introduction of laparoscopic colorectal resections in NGH in February 2010, the difficulties of tumour localisation at the time of surgery without tattoo have been highlighted. Furthermore, endoscopic documentation of site of tattoo with respect to the tumour can be inconsistent and at times misleading or difficult to interpret. Tattooing guidelines should be simple to follow and consistent for all lesions irrespective of the location of the tumour. The recommendations were to place at least three spots of tattoo one mucosal fold distal to the lesion and clearly document site of tattoo with respect to tumour in the endoscopy report.

METHOD

We identified 100 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal cancer resections over a two-year period. Data were collected regarding presence of tattoo preoperatively as documented in the colonoscopy report and subsequently the visibility of the tattoo at time of laparoscopy and its accuracy in relation to the tumour. Abdominoperineal resections and emergency colorectal operations were excluded.

RESULTS

Only 59% of the patients had a visible and accurate tattoo. In 17% of the patients, the tattoo was not visible at all, although it was documented in the endoscopy report that it had been administered. In 4% of patients, it was visible but inaccurately placed. In 20% of the patients, there were no tattoos at all, necessitating on table endoscopy and intraoperative specimen analysis to confirm that the tumour/lesion was within the resection specimen.

DISCUSSION

Preoperative tumour localisation is extremely important to correctly identify the site of tumour or lesion at laparoscopy. A standardised departmental protocol should be implemented by all endoscopists to place three spots of tattoo one mucosal fold distal to any significant lesions found. Failure to tattoo lesions/cancers preoperatively can lead to intraoperative delays and potential harm to patients from on-table endoscopy.

Is estimated intra-operative blood loss a reliable predictor of surgical outcomes in laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery?

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer is often associated with significantly reduced intra-operative blood loss compared to the corresponding open procedures. Increased intra-operative blood loss can be associated with increased risk of post-operative morbidity and mortality. We sought to determine whether estimated intra-operative blood loss was a reliable predictor of post-operative surgical outcomes.

METHOD

Prospective data were collected for patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal cancer resections from July 2011 to November 2013. Weighing swabs and measuring blood volume in suction devices calculated the estimated intra-operative blood loss. The operative outcome data including post-operative 30 day morbidity and mortality, length of hospital stay, re-admission and re-operation within 30 days were collected. The operative blood loss was grouped into Group 1 (less than 50 ml, Group 2 (50-150 ml) and Group 3 (over 150 ml). Patients who underwent open operations and laparoscopic conversions were excluded.

RESULTS

The median age, length of hospital stay, male to female ratio and body mass index were similar in the three groups. There was no 30-day mortality in any of the groups. The number of re-admissions within 30 days was similar in all groups. The re-operation rates within 30 days were higher in Groups 2 and 3 at 11% and 8.6%, respectively. The post-operative complications were 12.5%, 16.7%, and 26% in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. There were no anastomotic leaks requiring re-operation noted in Group 3.

DISCUSSION

This study has shown that intra-operative blood loss was not associated with increased median length of stay nor did it increase the 30 day re-admission rate. However, increased intra-operative blood loss was associated with increased incidence of post-operative morbidity and risk of reoperation within 30 days.

Investigation on growth, structure and characterization of succinate salt of 8-hydroxyquinoline: an organic NLO crystal

8-Hydroxyquinolinium succinate (8-HQSU) has been synthesized and single crystals were grown from ethanol solvent by employing the technique of slow evaporation at room temperature. The structure of the grown crystal has been elucidated by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. It reveals that 8-HQSU crystallizes in monoclinic system with non-centro symmetric space group P2(1). FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR spectral investigations have been carried out to identify the vibrational modes of various functional groups and placement of proton and carbon in the 8-HQSU compound, respectively. UV-vis-NIR transmission spectrum shows the cutoff wavelength around 357 nm. In addition, a photoluminescence spectral analysis was carried out for 8-HQSU crystals. The thermal properties of crystals were evaluated from TGA and DTA techniques and the crystal was found to be stable up to 145°C. The dielectric studies show that the dielectric constant and dielectric loss decrease exponentially with frequency at different temperatures. Photoconductivity studies were carried out on the grown crystals it reveals the positive photo conducting nature. Powder second harmonic generation property of the crystal was confirmed by Kurtz and Perry powder SHG technique and it is found to be 1.3 times greater than that of KDP.

Spectral investigations on undoped and Cu²⁺ doped ZnO-CdS composite nanopowders

Undoped and Cu(2+) doped ZnO-CdS composite nanopowders were synthesized by simple chemical precipitation method. Structural and spectroscopic properties of the prepared samples have been characterized by XRD, SEM with EDS, TEM, FT-IR, UV-Vis, EPR and Photoluminescence studies. X-ray diffraction pattern contains a series of peaks corresponds to hexagonal phase of ZnO and CdS. The average crystallite sizes of undoped and Cu(2+) doped samples are determined and are in the range of 25-30 nm. SEM and TEM micrographs reveal that the samples show spherical like structures with little agglomeration. FT-IR spectra show the fundamental mode of vibrations of ZnO at 515 cm(-1), CdS at 621 cm(-1) and other functional groups. Optical absorption spectrum of Cu(2+) doped sample consists of three bands at 665, 823 and 1192 nm attributed to the transitions (2)B1g→(2)Eg, (2)B2g and (2)A1g respectively. Crystal field and tetragonal field parameters are evaluated as Dq=1214, Ds=1610 and Dt=389 cm(-1). From EPR, spin-Hamiltonian and hyperfine splitting parameters are evaluated for Cu(2+) doped sample as g‖=2.3391, g⊥=2.0550 and A‖=130×10(-4) cm(-1), A⊥=36×10(-4) cm(-1). The optical and EPR data suggests that Cu(2+) entered into host lattice as tetragonally distorted octahedral site symmetry. PL spectra consists two emission bands at 367, 380 nm in UV region. A sharp blue emission peak at 425 nm and a broad green emission peak in the range of 450-570 nm are observed. The enhanced visible emission is observed after doping.

Synthesis, crystal growth and physiochemical characterization of organic NLO crystal: L-ornithinium dipicrate (LODP)

L-ornithinium dipicrate (LODP) has been synthesized and good quality single crystals were grown by slow evaporation method at room temperature. Single crystal XRD confirms that the grown crystal belongs to the monoclinic system with the noncentrosymmetric space group P21. Powder X-ray diffraction study confirms the crystalline nature of the compound. FTIR spectral analysis confirms the functional group in the synthesized compound. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses reveal the thermal stability of the crystal. The optical absorption spectrum shows the absence of absorption between 475 nm and 800 nm. The dielectric measurements were carried out to estimate the dielectric parameters of the grown crystal in the frequency range from 50 Hz to 5 MHz at various temperatures. The second harmonic property has been investigated by Kurtz-Perry powder technique. The relative SHG efficiency of LODP is found to be 14.57 times greater than that of the reference material KDP.

First Report of Rose rosette virus Associated with Rose Rosette Disease Infecting Knockout Roses in Florida

Roses are one of the most popular flowering shrubs in the United States, with a total wholesale value of US$194 million. Among the major states, Florida is the fourth largest producer of roses with a total value exceeding US$20 million (4). In Florida, the roses have become especially popular in recent years with the introduction of Knock Out and other shrub roses. Virus-like symptoms including witches'-broom, excessive thorns, abnormal red discoloration of shoots and foliages, distorted leaves, and deformed buds and flowers were initially observed on Knock Out roses in a commercial nursery in Quincy, FL, in November 2013. Fifteen plants out of ~250,000 plants showed these characteristic symptoms. Total RNA extracts (RNeasy Plant Mini Kit, Qiagen, Valencia, CA) from eight symptomatic and two non-symptomatic rose samples were subjected to reverse-transcription (RT) assays using SuperScript III Reverse transcriptase (Invitrogen, Life Technologies, NY) and random hexamer primers. The cDNA synthesized was then subjected to PCR assay using Platinum Taq DNA polymerase (Invitrogen, Life Technologies) and using Rose rosette virus (RRV) specific primers RRV-F and RRV-R (1), targeting the core region of the RNA1 genome of the virus. The RT-PCR assays using the specific primers produced amplicons of 375 bp, only in the symptomatic leaf samples. The obtained amplicons were PCR purified and sequenced directly (GenBank Accession Nos. KF990370 to KF990377). BLAST analysis of these sequences revealed a higher identity of 99% with the RRV (HQ871942) in the NCBI database. Pairwise comparison of the eight RRV sequences exhibited 99 to 100% identity among themselves. These results revealed the association of RRV with the symptomatic rose plants. Eight symptomatic and two non-symptomatic rose plant samples were tested for RRV using blot hybridization assay, utilizing a digoxigenin-labeled DNA probe of 511 bp, targeting the RNA1 genome of the RRV. All eight symptomatic rose plants showed a positive reaction to the RRV-specific probes, confirming the presence of RRV in the samples, while the non-symptomatic and the buffer control did not produce any reactions. Even though the virus is reported to spread by an eriophyid mite Phyllocoptes fructiphilus, thorough examination of the infected samples showed absence of the vector. The samples were also tested using RT-PCR for the presence of Rose cryptic virus (RCV) and Blackberry chlorotic ringspot virus (BCRV) using specific primers (2,3). The samples tested negative for the RCV and BCRV. This is the first report of occurrence of RRV on rose in Florida. Considering the economic importance of the rose plants and the highly destructive nature of RRV, this report underscores the need for immediate effective quarantine and management of the virus for protecting the economically important rose industry in Florida. References: (1) A. G. Laney et al. J. Gen. Virol. 92:1727, 2011. (2) S. Sabanadzovic and N. Abou Ghanem-Sabanadzovic. J. Plant Pathol. 90:287, 2008. (3) I. E. Tzanetakis et al. Plant Pathol. 55:568, 2006. (4) USDA. 2007 Census of Agriculture 3:25, Washington, DC, 2010.

First Report of Cucumber mosaic virus Associated with Capsicum chinense var. Scotch Bonnet in Florida

Scotch bonnet (Capsicum chinense) is a tropical hot pepper variety that is grown in South America, the Caribbean Islands, and in Florida, and is an important cash crop. In Florida, scotch bonnet is grown on ~100 acres annually. Virus-like leaf symptoms including mosaic and yellow mottling were observed on scotch bonnet plants in a field at Quincy, FL, with a disease incidence of ~5%. Two symptomatic and one non-symptomatic plant sample were collected from this field for identification of the causal agent associated with the symptoms. Viral inclusion assays (2) of the epidermal tissues of the symptomatic scotch bonnet samples using Azure A stain indicated the presence of spherical aggregates of crystalline inclusion bodies. Testing of the symptomatic samples using lateral flow immunoassays (Immunostrips, Agdia, Elkhart, IN) specific to Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Potato virus Y (PVY), Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV), Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), and Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV), showed a positive reaction only to CMV. The sap from an infected leaf sample ground in 0.01 M Sorensons phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) was used to mechanically inoculate one healthy scotch bonnet plant (tested negative for CMV with Immunostrip) at the 2- to 3-leaf stage. The inoculated plant developed mild mosaic and mottling symptoms 12 to 14 days post inoculation. The presence of CMV in the mechanically inoculated plant was further verified using CMV Immunostrips. Total RNA was extracted (RNeasy Plant Mini Kit, Qiagen, Valencia, CA) from the previously collected two symptomatic and one non-symptomatic scotch bonnet samples. The samples were subjected to reverse-transcription (RT)-PCR assays using SuperScript III One-Step RT-PCR System (Invitrogen, Life Technologies, Grand Island, NY), and using multiplex RT-PCR primer sets (1). The primers were designed to differentiate the CMV subgroup I and II, targeting the partial coat protein gene and the 3'UTR. The RT-PCR assays using the multiplex primers produced an amplicon of 590 bp, with the CMV subgroup I primers. The RT-PCR product was only amplified from the symptomatic leaf samples. The obtained amplicons were gel eluted, and directly sequenced bi-directionally (GenBank Accession Nos. KF805389 and KF805390). BLAST analysis of these sequences showed 97 to 98% nucleotide identities with the CMV isolates in the NCBI database. The isolates collected in Florida exhibited highest identity (98%) with the CMV isolate from tomato (DQ302718). These results revealed the association of CMV subgroup I with symptomatic scotch bonnet leaf samples. Although CMV has been reported from scotch bonnet, this is the first report of its occurrence in Florida. References: (1) S. Chen et al. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin. 43:465, 2011. (2) R. G. Christie and J. R. Edwardson. Plant Dis. 70:273, 1986.

First Report of Xanthomonas axonopodis Causing Bacterial Leaf Spot on Crape Myrtle

Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia sp.) is a popular ornamental tree in the United States and the industry produced 2,781,089 trees in 2010 with a value exceeding US $42.8 million (1,4). A new disorder of crape myrtle has been observed since 2011 in numerous nurseries in Florida, which was characterized by dark brown, angular to irregularly shaped, oily-looking spots surrounded by yellow halos. The disease primarily affects lower leaves that eventually turn yellow and can lead to rapid defoliation of susceptible cultivars. Plants examined in field surveys at the University of Florida, North Florida Research and Education Center, Quincy, FL in 2012 and 2013 also had similar symptoms on cvs. Arapaho, Carolina Beauty, Tuscarora, Whit IV Red Rocket, Whit VIII Rhapsody in Pink, and White Chocolate. The disease severity ranged from 20 to 70% and all the plants were infected. A yellow-pigmented, gram-negative, oxidase negative bacterium was consistently isolated from symptomatic leaves (two leaves from each of five plants). Pathogenicity tests were performed using five isolated bacterial strains on potted crape myrtle cv. Arapaho. Three plants were inoculated with a 10⁸ CFU/ml suspension of bacterial strains in sterile deionized water, and covered with transparent plastic bag for 48 h. Two control plants were inoculated with sterile distilled water. The inoculated plants were then incubated in a greenhouse at 30 to 34°C for 14 days. Symptoms of dark brown, angular to irregularly shaped lesions were observed only on the inoculated plants after 7 days. The bacterium was re-isolated from the inoculated symptomatic plants as described above, thus fulfilling Koch's postulates. Fatty acid methyl ester profiling of the five isolated bacteria using GC-MIDI (Microbial IDentification Inc, Newark, DE) revealed the identity of the bacterium as Xanthomonas axonopodis with an identity index of ~0.80, but matched multiple pathovars. Total genomic DNA was extracted from the pure bacterial culture using UltraClean Microbial DNA Isolation Kit (MO BIO Laboratories, Carlsbad, CA). The genomic DNA was subjected to PCR assay using universal primers 27f/1492R (3) targeting the complete 16S rRNA gene and primers 16F945/23R458 (2), which target the partial 16S-23S internal transcribed spacer region. PCR amplification using primer pairs 27f/1492R and 16F945/23R458 resulted in amplicons of 1,450 and 1,500 bp, respectively. The amplicons were gel purified and sequenced directly at Florida State University. BLAST analysis of the sequences (Accession Nos. KF926678, KF926679, KF926680, KF926681, and KF926682) revealed the identity of the bacterium as X. axonopodis, ranging from 98 to 99%, with several strains in the NCBI database. Phylogenetic analysis using the neighbor-joining method showed that our strains were distantly clustered with X. axonopodis pv. dieffenbachiae when compared to other available strains in the database. To our knowledge, this is the first worldwide report of a bacterial leaf spot on crape myrtle caused by X. axonopodis. This information should aid in the development of breeding lines with resistance to bacterial leaf spot and effective disease management practices. References: (1) C. S. Furtado. Garden Bull. 24:185, 1969. (2) C. Guasp. Int. J. Syst. Evol. Microbiol. 50:1629, 2000. (3) D. J. Lane. Page 115 in: Nucleic Acid Techniques in Bacterial Systematics, 1991. (4) USDA. 2007 Census of Agriculture, Washington, DC. 3:25, 2010.

Molecular characterization of Dasheen mosaic virus isolates infecting edible aroids in India

Dasheen mosaic virus (DsMV) infecting three major edible aroids namely Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, Colocasia esculenta, and Xanthosoma sagittifolium cultivated in India was characterized. Infected plants showing typical DsMV symptoms were subjected to reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and an amplification of a 963 bp fragment which encoded the coat protein (CP) gene was obtained. BLAST analysis of the cloned DNA amplicon revealed the identity of the virus to be that of DsMV. Sequence identity matrix of the nucleotide sequences among the three isolates showed that the DsMV isolate infecting A. paeoniifolius and C. esculenta shared an identity as high as 93%, while the DsMV isolate from X. sagittifolium shared an identity of only 73% and 76% with the DsMV isolates from A. paeoniifolius and C. esculenta, respectively. Comparative analysis of the coat protein of the three DsMV isolates showed the presence of DVG motif (A. paeoniifolius and C. esculenta) and DTG motif in X. sagittifolium and several varying potential threonine and asparagine rich N-glycosylation motifs. Single amino acid substitution of the several conserved motifs occurs in all the three DsMV isolates. This is the first characterization of DsMV isolates infecting A. paeoniifolius, C. esculenta, and X. sagittifolium plants in India.

First Report of Turnip mosaic virus Infecting Brassica carinata (Ethiopian Mustard) in the United States

Brassica carinata L. Braun (Ethiopian mustard) is an annual oil seed crop currently being evaluated for its potential use as a source of biofuel. Due to its high content of erucic acid, it provides a biodegradable non-fossil fuel feedstock that has many applications ranging from biofuels to other industrial uses such as polymers, waxes, and surfactants. Moreover, high glucosinolate content adds the scope of B. carinata being used as a bio-fumigant. B. carinata is amenable to low input agriculture and has great economic potential to be used as a winter crop, especially in the southeastern United States. Virus-like leaf symptoms including mosaic, ringspot, mottling, and puckering were observed on B. carinata (cvs. 080814 EM and 080880 EM) in field trials at Quincy, FL, during spring 2013, with disease incidence of >80%. A more extensive survey of the same field location indicated that mosaic symptoms were the most common. Viral inclusion assays (1) of leaves with a range of symptoms indicated the presence of potyvirus-like inclusion bodies. Total RNA extracts (RNeasy Plant Mini Kit, Qiagen Inc., Valencia, CA) from six symptomatic samples and one non-symptomatic B. carinata sample were subjected to reverse transcription (RT)-PCR assays using SuperScript III One-Step RT-PCR System (Invitrogen, Life Technologies, NY), and two sets of potyvirus-specific degenerate primers MJ1-F and MJ2-R (2) and NIb2F and NIb3R (3), targeting the core region of the CP and NIb, respectively. The RT-PCR assays using the CP and NIb specific primers produced amplicons of 327 bp and 350 bp, respectively, only in the symptomatic leaf samples. The obtained amplicons were gel-eluted and sequenced directly (GenBank Accession Nos. KC899803 to KC899808 for CP and KC899809 to KC899813 for NIb). BLAST analysis of these sequences revealed that they came from Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV). Pairwise comparisons of the CP (327 bp) and NIb (350 bp) segments revealed 98 to 99% and 96 to 98% nucleotide identities, respectively, with corresponding sequences of TuMV isolates. These results revealed the association of TuMV with symptomatic B. carinata leaf samples. Although TuMV has been reported from B. carinata in Zambia (4), this is the first report of its occurrence on B. carinata in the United States. Considering the importance of B. carinata as a biofuel source, this report underscores the need for developing effective virus management strategies for the crop. References: (1) R. G. Christie and J. R. Edwardson. Plant Dis. 70:273, 1986. (2) M. Grisoni et al. Plant Pathol. 55:523, 2006. (3) L. Zheng et al. Plant Pathol. 59:211, 2009. (4) D. S. Mingochi and A. Jensen. Acta Hortic. 218:289, 1988.

Synthesis and spectral characterizations of trivalent ions (Cr3+, Fe3+) doped CdO nanopowders

Trivalent transition metal ions (Cr(3+), Fe(3+)) doped CdO nanopowders via sonication in the presence of Sodium lauryl sulfate as stabilizing agent were synthesized and characterized. Powder XRD studies indicate that the obtained CdO has a cubic phase and concluded that the trivalent ions doping induced the lattice constants to change some extent. Optical absorption spectra exhibited the characteristic bands of Cr(3+) and Fe(3+) ions in octahedral site symmetry. Crystal field (Dq) and inter-electronic repulsion (B and C) parameters are evaluated for Cr(3+) doped CdO nanopowders as Dq=1540, B=619 and C=3327 cm(-1) and for Fe(3+) doped CdO nanopowders Dq=920, B=690, C=2750 cm(-1). EPR spectra of the Cr(3+) and Fe(3+) doped CdO nanopowders exhibited resonances at g=1.973 and g=2 respectively which indicate distorted octahedral site for both ions with the host. Photoluminescence spectra shows the emission bands in violet and bluish green regions for Cr(3+) doped CdO, ultraviolet and blue emissions for Fe(3+) doped CdO nanopowders. The CIE chromaticity coordinates were also evaluated from the emission spectrum. FT-IR spectra indicate the presence of various functional groups of host lattice.