Selective isolation and genomic characterization of biopolymer producer-a novel feature of halophile Brachybacterium paraconglomeratum MTCC 13074

BACKGROUND

Biopolymers like polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are the best natural macromolecules to use as alternative to the synthetic polymers. Many prokaryotes accumulate PHA as cytoplasmic intracellular granules and their accumulation is triggered by starving conditions. The PHAs are ecofriendly and used to create biodegradable plastics. The microbial synthesized PHA had acquired global importance in industrial and biomedical sectors.

RESULTS

Ten different bacterial strains were isolated for the screening of PHA producers from the estuarine region of the Bay of Bengal, Suryalanka in Bapatla. A yellowish slimy circular colony known as M4 is actively growing on selective minimal media and was screened for polymeric granules in its cytoplasm using Sudan Black B and confirmed with the fluorescent dye Nile blue A. All of the isolates were biochemically tested and isolate M4 is the most capable of growing at high NaCl concentrations (3.2 percent) and tests positive for catalase, methyl red. The M4 strain revealed clear hydrolysis of gelatin, starch, and casein. The 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that M4 is 99.72% of identity to Brachybacterium paraconglomeratum LMG 19861(T) in BLAST and the obtained strain was assigned with accession no. MTCC 13074 and deposited in NCBI with accession no. MW899045. The chief cellular fatty acids found in M4 were C14:0, C15:0, C16:0, C18:1cis-9, C18:0, iso-C15: 0, iso-C14: 0, anteiso-C17: 0 and C18:1-7. Crotonic acid formation from M4-PHB extract was detected at 235nm in a UV spectrophotometer. Methanolysis was done, and derivatives of polyhydroxybutyric acid (PHB) in the extract were analyzed using GC-MS. Increasing viscosity was seen in the extracts which confirms the presence of polymer in the extracts. Thermogravimetric analysis was studied to determine the thermal profile of the PHB in the extract of M4.

CONCLUSION

In the study, the selective screening and extraction of ecofriendly PHB from M4 strain was highlighted. Brachybacterium paraconglomeratum is a novel strain showed its uniqueness by producing few monomeric derivatives of PHB. The strain was reporting for the first time as PHA producer. B. paraconglomeratum has promising characteristics according to its metabolic profile. In addition, this study also helps to understand the diversity of bacteria isolated from marine sources.

Total synthesis of remdesivir

Remdesivir, the first drug approved by the FDA to treat COVID-19, is in high demand for patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Herein, we report a facile approach minimizing the protecting group manipulations to afford remdesivir in good overall yield.

The synthesis of indeno[de]isochromene derivatives from arylvinyl epoxides and carbonyl compounds via tandem Nazarov and oxa-Pictet–Spengler cyclizations

The conversion of aryl vinyl epoxides and carbonyl compounds in the presence of a catalytic amount of BF3·OEt2 to indeno[de]isochromenes via tandem Nazarov and oxa-Pictet–Spengler cyclizations is described.

Scandium Triflate Catalyzed Nazarov Cyclization of Arylvinyl Epoxides Derived from Alkoxides and Chloro(aryl)carbenes: A Facile Access to Resveratrol-Derived Natural Products

The reaction of arylvinyl alkoxides with chloro(aryl)carbenes provided the corresponding arylvinyl epoxides that underwent Nazarov cyclization in a catalytic amount of scandium triflate, providing easy access to several highly substituted indenes, including some resveratrol-derived natural products.

Patient experiences and health system responsiveness among internal migrants: A nationwide study in 13 Indian cities

OBJECTIVE

To report various components of health system responsiveness among poor internal migrants who availed the government health facilities in 13 Indian cities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cluster random sampling was used to select 50,806 migrant households, of which 14,263 households avail the government health facility in last six months. In addition, 5072 women, who sought antenatal care and 3946 women who had delivery in government health facility during last six months were also included. Data on different domains of health system responsiveness were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire, developed based on the World Health Survey of WHO.

RESULTS

Of the eight domains of responsiveness, namely, autonomy, communication, confidentiality, dignity, choice, quality of basic facilities, prompt attention and access to family and community, seven domains, except the 'choice', are assessed, and they are moderate. Only about 30% of participants said that doctor discussed on treatment options (autonomy). And 50-60% of participants said positively for questions of clarity of communication. About 59% of participants acknowledged the confidentiality. Not more than 40% of participants said they were treated with dignity, and privacy is respected (dignity). The responses to quality basic amenities, prompt attention and access to family and community domains are fairly satisfactory.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has implications as many urban poor, including migrants do not utilize the services of public healthcare facilities. Hence, a responsive health system is required. There should be a policy in place to train and orient healthcare workers on some of the domains of health system responsiveness.

Stereoselective Access to the Core Structure of Macroline-Type Indole Alkaloids: Total Synthesis of Macroline and Alstomicine

Rapid synthesis of the pentacyclic core structure of macroline-type indole alkaloids, and its application in the total synthesis of macroline and alstomicine is described. The core structure was accomplished in a highly stereocontrolled manner via two key steps, Ireland-Claisen rearrangement and Pictet-Spengler cyclization, commencing from a readily available starting material l-tryptophan, which obviated the need of a particular chiral source as an external catalyst, reagent, or internal auxiliary.

Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha and Interleukin-6 Gene Polymorphisms with Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific syndrome that may be dangerous especially to the fetus. Different cytokines have been found to be elevated in women with preeclampsia and may have possible roles in the development of this disorder. Alleles of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) genes are associated with preeclampsia in several studies in different populations. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between IL-6 (G174C) and TNF-α (G-308A) gene polymorphisms with preeclampsia in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh of India. The TNFA (-308 A/G) and IL6 (-674G/C) genotypes were determined in 100 preeclamptic women and 100 normal pregnant women as control group, using allele-specific oligonucleotides-polymerase chain reaction method. Data was analyzed using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. TNF-α (G-308A) G/G genotype showed a significantly higher frequency among the preeclamptic group than the control group (odds ratio, 0.4603, 95% confidence interval, (0.2521- 0.8405); P = .005). G/A genotype also showed higher frequency among the preeclamptic group compared to control group (odds ratio, 2.508, 95% confidence interval, ((1.341-4.689); P = .001). IL-6 (G174C) genotype significantly higher frequency among the preeclamptic group than the control group (odds ratio, 0.4603, 95% confidence interval, (0.2521- 0.8405); P = .005).  The present study might suggest a role for TNF-α (G-308A) and -174 GC of IL-6 genotype in the development of preeclampsia; suggesting that they are of differing genetic predisposition/pathophysiology.

Nazarov cyclization of divinyl ketones bearing an ester group at the β-position: a remarkable effect of α-substitution and alkene geometry on regioselectivity

The Nazarov cyclization of divinyl ketones with an ester at the β-position was examined with particular reference to where the cyclic double bond forms.

Effect of social and environmental determinants on overweight and obesity prevalence among adolescent school children

BACKGROUND

Overweight and obesity among children and adolescents is a public health concern.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity and its association with social and environmental determinants among the adolescent school children of Tirupati town of Andhra Pradesh, India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was collected by interviewer-administered method from school children aged between 12 to 16 years. The sample consisted of 2258 subjects (1097 boys and 1161 girls). Overweight and obesity were defined by body mass index (BMI) based on the current method recommended by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention 2000. Data on social and environmental determinants were collected by using a pre-tested and validated questionnaire.

RESULTS

In the present sample, 11.2 percent and 4.8 percent of boys and 10.3 percent and 4.8 percent of girls were overweight and obese. The literacy level of parents, family income and child sleep duration significantly associated with overweight. Parental level of education was a risk factor for overweight (Mother: 1.570; 95% CI: 1.048-2.354). Similarly increase in family income (OR = 1.529; 95% CI: 1.089-2.148) and child sleep duration <7 hrs per day (OR = 2.006; 95% CI: 1.194-3.371) raised children's association in gaining weight.

CONCLUSION

Our study reinforces the burgeoning prevalence of overweight and obesity among the adolescents. Interventional measures taken should consider family, school and physical environment to check the problem of overweight/obesity.

Nazarov cyclization of dienylaziridines: synthesis of cyclopentadienyl/hydrinedienyl/indenyl glycines

Cyclopentadienyl, hydrinedienyl, and indenyl glycines were synthesized by the Nazarov cyclization of dienylaziridines for the first time. Several substrates were synthesized to demonstrate the compatibility of this reaction. Asymmetric synthesis of these amino acids was also developed to show the additional scope of this method.

Central giant cell granuloma of maxilla: a case report

Central giant cell granuloma formerly called as giant cell reparative granuloma is a non neoplastic proliferative lesion of unknown etiology. It occurs most commonly in mandible, but can also occur in maxilla. The case described here involved maxilla which was treated with surgical excision.

Total synthesis of gonytolides C and G, lachnone C, and formal synthesis of blennolide C and diversonol

The total syntheses of gonytolide C and related compounds have been accomplished from the aldol reaction between acetophenone derived from orcinol and butyrolactone containing ketone, followed by the diastereoselective intramolecular cyclization.

Impact of Adipocytokines-Leptin and Adiponectin on Thyroid Stimulating Hormone among Hypothyroid Patients

Background: Adipocytokines, secreted from the adipose tissues have profound effect on complex metabolic and endocrine functions. Among them, leptin and adiponectin are the most recognized molecules which influence body homeostasis and metabolism. Moreover, patients with thyroid disease usually exhibit disturbances of these metabolic activities. Thus adipocytokines and thyroid hormones may influence similar aspects of metabolic functions. Objective: The main objective of current study was to evaluate the association and impact of leptin and adiponectin on thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) among hypothyroid patients. Materials and Methods: For the present study a total 350 individuals were enlisted, out of which 200 were hypothyroid patients and 150 age and sex matched healthy controls aged ≥ 12 years. The serum TSH, leptin and adiponectin concentration were measured by CLIA method and results were computed by statistical methods such as mean, standard deviation, standard error and correlation using MS-Excel 2007. Result: Our data showed that hypothyroidism was more prevalent in the age group 30-50(62%) and an elevated TSH level was observed with advancing age among the patients as compared to controls. The inverse relation of leptin and adiponectin has been seen among the patients. When patients were compared with controls, they were with normal values which were in the range of standardized lab values leptin (3.7-13ng/dl) and adiponectin (5-10μg/ml). Conclusion: In conclusion, our data interpreted variations in the level of leptin and adiponectin among the hypothyroid individuals with high TSH level. As abnormal levels of these adipocytokines indicates the risk for other metabolic diseases like cardiovascular disease, obesity etc. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i2.8789 Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-5(2) 2014: 67-72

Alternate splint for flexion contracture in children with burns

Splinting children and ensuring that children wear the splint can be challenging tasks for both the therapist and the caregiver. Sometimes creativity is needed to create a pediatric splint that is easy to don and stays in place. These authors describe their challenge with pediatric burn patients either not wearing or losing their splint and how they now combine the splint directly into the pressure garment to ensure better patient compliance

Total synthesis and stereochemical revision of acortatarins A and B

A first total synthesis of acortatarins A, B, and an enantiomer of the proposed structure of acortatarin B is described by using readily available d-sugars. This convergent total synthesis revealed the revision of the absolute configuration of acortatarin A and structural revision of acortatarin B. The key steps involved are regioselective epoxide opening with deprotonated 2,5-disubstituted pyrrole and spiroketalization.

Status of copper and magnesium levels in diabetic nephropathy cases: a case-control study from South India

Diabetic nephropathy is a complication of diabetes mellitus. This present study investigates the status of copper and magnesium in diabetic nephropathy cases to establish a possible relation. Forty patients of diabetic nephropathy participated in the study as cases. Forty age- and sex-matched healthy individuals served as controls. Blood samples were collected from both cases and controls for determination of FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, microalbumin, copper, and magnesium levels. The mean concentrations of FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, and microalbumin of cases were significantly higher than that of controls. The mean magnesium levels of cases (1.60 ± 0.32 meq/L) were significantly lower than controls 2.14 ± 0.16 meq/L (p < 0.05). But the mean copper levels of cases, 165.42 ± 5.71 μg/dl, shows no significant difference with controls, 166.6 ± 5.48 μg/dl, (p > 0.05).The findings in the present study suggest that hypomagnesemia may be linked with development of diabetic nephropathy.

Integration of marketing and operations (M/O): conceptualisation and research issues

Rapid rate of change in technologies, markets and other environmental factors make “integration of marketing and operations” as one of the most crucial decision for business survival and performance in today’s world. Integration between functions and departments is an important strategy for a firm in today’s dynamic and competitive environment. It is widely recognized that manufacturing/operations can be a formidable competitive weapon if equipped and managed properly, and that to achieve this success a company must have the correct alignment of manufacturing/operations and marketing strategies. This paper deals with the familiar but classic problem that afflicts every manufacturing as well as service organization, namely, conflicts between thse two functional areas. The various key decision areas between these functions are discussed. The paper covers the various aspects of integration: analytical, conceptual as well as empirical studies which are available in literature. Drawing on the literature and prior empirical work in marketing/operations (M/O) strategies, several frameworks and models developed so far in literature are reviewed in this paper.

Furanoid sugar amino acids as dipeptide mimics in design of analogs of vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor binding inhibitor

In this study we describe the development of peptidomimetic analogs of the potent vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor binding inhibitor, Leu(1) -Met(2) -Tyr(3) -Pro(4) -Thr(5) -Tyr(6) -Leu(7) -Lys(8) -OH 1, by incorporating furanoid sugar amino acids (SAAs) 2-4 into the molecule. The furanoid SAAs 2-4 were used as dipeptide isosteres to replace Tyr(3) -Pro(4) or Pro(4) -Thr(5) in sequence 1. The resulting analogs 5-9 were tested for their anti-cancer activities in vitro, following the standard MTT assay on a panel of human cancer cell lines. One of the potent analogs, 6a was tested in vivo for tumor regression on primary colon tumor xenografted nude mice. Our experimental results suggest that many of these analogs show either retention or enhancement of biological activity.

Genetic affinities of AB0 and Rh blood groups among populations of Andhra Pradesh, India: 2. Tribes

Genetic affinities of 21 tribal populations of Andhra Pradesh are reported in terms of genetic distance analysis with regard to AB0 and Rh loci. These tribal populations show a high degree of differentiation in the distribution of AB0 blood groups. Some tribes exhibit the monomorphism for Rh (D) locus. The genetic distance analysis reveals that the 21 tribes included in this study are genetically distant from one another and the genetic clustering pattern correlates with linguistic/ethnic affiliation and geographical propinquity of these tribal populations to a certain extent. The possible reasons for different cluster formations are discussed.

Role of diatoms as indicators of pollution gradients

The impact of liquid wastes from a paper mill on the benthic diatoms in flowing waters has been studied for a period of two years. Water and algal samples were analysed at monthly intervals at three sites along the course of the river, along with raw effluents. The water before the confluence of effluents was well oxygenated with an alkaline pH. Organic matter, NH3 and nutrients were recorded at low concentrations. At the entry of effluents, the water showed considerable decline in dissolved oxygen content, increase in organic matter, hardness, Cl, HCO3 and total dissolved solids. Diatoms constituted 61% by numerical abundance and were reduced to 25% of total algae at the entry of effluents. Multiple regression analysis was employed to discover the relative importance of various physicochemical variables on the abundance and distribution of diatoms at various sampling stations. Mathematical equations were derived involving the physicochemical variables for better prediction of algal number.