Self-powered broadband photodetection enabled by facile CVD-grown MoS2/GaN heterostructures

Achieving self-powered photodetection without biasing is a notable challenge for photodetectors. In this work, we demonstrate the successful fabrication of large-scale van der Waals epitaxial molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) on a p-GaN/sapphire substrate using a straightforward chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique. Our research primarily centers on the characterization of these photodetectors produced through this method. The MoS2/GaN heterojunction photodetector showcases a broad and extensive photoresponse spanning from ultraviolet A (UVA) to near-infrared (NIR). When illuminated by a 532 nm laser, its self-powered photoresponse is characterized by a rise time (τr) of ∼18.5 ms and a decay time (τd) of ∼123.2 ms. The photodetector achieves a responsivity (R) of ∼0.13 A W-1 and a specific detectivity (D*) of ∼3.8 × 1010 Jones at zero bias. Additionally, while utilizing a 404 nm laser, the photodetector reaches a maximum R and D* of ∼1.7 × 104 A/W and ∼1.6 × 1013 Jones, respectively, at Vb = 5 V. The operational mechanism of the device can be explained by the diode characteristics involving a tunneling current in the presence of reverse bias. The exceptional performance of these photodetectors can be attributed to the pristine interface between the CVD-grown MoS2 and GaN, providing an impeccably clean tunneling surface. Additionally, our investigation has unveiled that MoS2/GaN heterostructure photodetectors, featuring MoS2 coverage percentages spanning from 20% to 50%, exhibit improved responsivity capabilities at an external bias voltage. As a result, this facile CVD growth technique for MoS2 photodetectors holds significant potential for large-scale production in the manufacturing industry.

Oesophageal carcinosarcoma: a rare neoplasm of the oesophagus

Oesophageal carcinosarcoma (OCS) is a rare oesophageal cancer, expressing both carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. Although believed to have a better prognosis, no standard guidelines exist for its diagnosis and management. We report a case of a 60-year male presenting with progressive dysphagia and weight loss. Endoscopy and contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the chest revealed a large polypoidal intraluminal growth at the mid-oesophagus. Endoscopic biopsy revealed a sarcoma of the oesophagus. The patient underwent McKeown minimally invasive oesophagectomy. Final histopathology was suggestive of OCS. Postoperatively, the patient received adjuvant chemoradiation. At 20-month follow-up, he was asymptomatic with no radiological evidence of recurrence.

Differential expression of inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandin synthases and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor in the endometrium and circulation in different graded CEH-pyometra in bitch

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)-pyometra (CEH-P) is one of the most common reproductive disorders in bitches, posing a risk to both future fertility and life. The aims of the current study were to elucidate the differential expression patterns of inflammatory mediators at transcript and protein levels in the endometrium and to assess the concentrations of key inflammatory mediators in the peripheral circulation of bitches with different graded CEH-P. A total of 25 client-owned intact mixed breed bitches of 3-10 years presented to the outpatient department of RVP-TVCC of the institute were considered for the study. Of which, 22 cases suggestive of pyometra and 3 cases of CEH obtained during routine elective ovariohysterectomy were subjected to histopathological examination. Uteri were categorized into CEH (n = 3), moderate CEH-P (mCEH-P, n = 9), severe CEH-P (sCEH-P, n = 6) and atrophic pyometra (AT-P, n = 7). A group of age matched (n = 12) bitches without pyometra served as control. Endometrial transcripts such as IL6, IL8, PTGS2, PGFS, and SLPI were expressed differentially in the CEH and CEH-P bitch. In addition, a strong immunoreactivity (IR) of IL6, IL8, PTGS2, and mPGES1 was recorded in the sCEH-P uterus, while expression of IL10 was noticed in AT-P. In circulation, serum IL6 was the most relevant marker with high sensitivity of 96.2% and specificity of 84.6% at a cut off concentration 8.5 pg/mL followed by SLPI with 95.2% sensitivity, and 84.6% specificity at cut off concentration of 1.3 ng/mL. Serum IL10, PGFM and SLPI concentration in the peripheral circulation were 1.5-2.23 fold higher in mCEH-P, 0.87-2.5 fold higher in sCEH-P and 2.9-3.5 fold higher in AT-P than that of control. It is concluded that monitoring the serum concentration of IL6, IL10 and SLPI would be useful adjunct to the established hematobiochemical parameters in the management of pyometra in the bitch with critical illness.

Low genetic confirmation rate in South Indian subjects with a clinical diagnosis of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) who underwent targeted next-generation sequencing for 13 genes

PURPOSE

To screen for maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) variants in subjects with an early age of onset and positive family history of diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

60 subjects with onset of diabetes between 3 and 30 years of age and parental history (onset < 35 years) of diabetes were recruited after excluding autoimmune, pancreatic and syndromic forms of diabetes. Detailed pedigree chart and clinical data were recorded. MODY genetic testing (MODY 1-13) was performed and variant classification was done adhering to the ACMG guidelines.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics of subjects were as follows: mean age of onset of diabetes 19.9 ± 7 years, mean duration of diabetes 6.3 ± 6.8 years, BMI 23.3 ± 3 kg/m² and C-peptide 1.56 ± 1.06 nmol/l. Four out of sixty (6.6%) were positive for variants classifiable as pathogenic/likely pathogenic: one patient with HNF4Ac.691C > T, (p.Arg231Trp), two with HNF 1A c.746C > A(p.Ser249Ter) and c.1340C > T(p.Pro447Leu), and one with ABCC8 c.4544C > T (p.Thr1515Met). MODY 1 and MODY 3 variants were documented in the paediatric age group (< 18 years).

CONCLUSION

A genetic diagnosis of MODY could be confirmed in only 6.6% (4/60) of patients clinically classifiable as MODY. This is less than that reported in clinically diagnosed MODY subjects of European descent. Newly published population data and more stringent criteria for assessment of pathogenicity and younger age of onset of type 2 diabetes in Indians could have contributed to the lower genetic confirmation rate. Apart from variants in the classical genes (HNF1A, HNF4A), a likely pathogenic variant in a non-classical gene (ABCC8) was noted in this study.

GeSn-based Multiple-Quantum-Well Photodetectors for Mid-Infrared Sensing Applications

Silicon (Si)-based mid-infrared (MIR) photonics has promising potential for realizing next-generation ultra-compact spectroscopic systems for various applications such as label-free and damage-free gas sensing, medical diagnosis, and defense. The epitaxial growth of Ge1-xSnx alloy on Si substrate provides the promising technique to extend the cut-off wavelength of Si photonics to MIR range by Sn alloying. Here, we present the theory and simulation of heterojunction p-i-n MIR photodetectors (PDs) with Ge0.87Sn0.13/Ge0.92Sn0.08 quantum-wells with an additional Ge0.91Sn0.09 layer to elongate the photoabsorption path in the MIR spectrum. The incorporation of QW pairs (N) enables the light-matter interaction due to the carrier and optical confinement in the active region. As a result, the spectral response of the device is enhanced in the MIR range. Devices with varying N were compared in terms of various figure-of merits including dark-current, a photocurrent-to-dark current ratio, detectivity, spectral responsivity, and noise equivalent power (NEP). Additionally, parasitic capacitance-dependent RC and 3dB bandwidth were also studied using a small-signal equivalent circuit model. The proposed device exhibited the extended photodetection wavelength at ~3370 nm and Iph/Idark up to ~7.3 × 103 with a dark current of ~56.3 nA for N = 8 at 300 K. At a bias of -3V, the proposed device achieved the spectral responsivity of 0.86 A/W at 2870 nm and 0.55 A/W at 3300 nm, detectivity more than 2.5 × 109 Jones and a NEP less than 2.1 × 10-13 WHz-0.5 for N = 8 at 3250 3250 nm The calculated 3dB bandwidth of 47.8 GHz, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and linear dynamic range (LDR) of 93 dB and 74 dB were achieved at 3300 nm for N = 8. Thus, these results indicate that the proposed GeSn-based QW p-i-n PDs pave the pathway towards the realization of new and high-performance detectors for sensing in the MIR regime.

Expression of kisspeptin and its receptor in different functional classes of ovarian follicle in the buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Recently, we reported the differential expression of kisspeptinergic system in the bubaline hypothalamus and corpus luteum. Here, we document the expression of kisspeptin (Kp) and its receptor (Kiss1r) in the ovarian follicles of the buffalo with respect to the functional status. Follicles of ≥10 to ≤13 mm diameter (n = 45) were retrospectively categorized into active (n = 18), intermediate (n = 16) and atretic (n = 11) follicles based on the concentrations of intrafollicular progesterone (P₄) and estradiol (E₂). The P₄:E₂ ratio was significantly lower in the active follicle (0.43 ± 0.08) than that of the intermediate (3.46 ± 0.53) and atretic (28.4 ± 10.6) follicles (P < 0.05). Relative fold change in the transcripts of kisspeptin (Kiss1), Kiss1r, gonadotrophin receptors, steroid acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1 (CYP11A1), cytochrome P450 Family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1), insulin like growth factor -1 (IGF-1), apoptotic factors (caspase 3 and B-cell lymphoma 2, BCL2) was calculated using qPCR in the follicular wall of the three categories of follicle (n = 8/group). In another experiment, histological sections of the ovary (n = 41) were used to group the follicles as described above and immunostaining of Kp, Kiss1r and aromatase was done. A significant upregulation of StAR, CYP11A1 and CYP19A1 in the active follicles supported the endocrine basis of follicular classification. The transcripts of Kiss1 and Kiss1r were upregulated by 19.45 fold and 4.25 fold, respectively in the active follicle as compared to other groups. Immunolocalization studies revealed that Kp and Kiss1r were localized to the basal and antral granulosa cells (GC) of the active and intermediate follicles; however, the staining intensity was stronger in the former group. Strong expression of CYP19A1 in the GC layer of active follicle supported the histological basis of defining the functional status of the follicle. It is concluded that the follicular compartment of the bubaline ovary expressed the constituents of kisspeptinergic system. The expression of Kp and Kiss1r was influenced by the functional status of the follicle with intense localization in the GC layer of the active follicles.

Bioefficacy evaluation of chalcone derivatives against Meloidogyne graminicola infecting rice, Oryza sativa L

A series of chalcones (1-14) were synthesized, characterized (using IR and 1H NMR techniques), and evaluated with an objective to manage rice root-knot nematode (RRKN) (Meloidogyne graminicola) both under pluronic gel and field conditions. Out of these fourteen compounds, 1-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-3-phenyl-propenone (13) and 1,3-diphenyl-propenone (14) showed promising and dose dependent activity at 10, 20, and 40 mg L^-1. A significant reduction in penetration of second stage juveniles (J₂s) in rice roots was observed in compounds 13 (9.5-12.0 J₂s/plant) and 14 (10.5-13.4 J₂s/plant) compared to control plants (PB1121) (13.5-23.6 J₂s/plant) in pluronic gel study. The results of field trials indicated that 14, showed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) better plant growth on 28 days after sowing (DAS) compared to 13. Both 13 and 14 reduced gall formation significantly than carbofuran 3 G @1 kg a.i./ha. However, lower concentrations were less effective in field in reducing the gall formation. Also, a significant reduction in the number of galls was observed when soil was drenched with 14 @ 40 mg L^-1. However, root dipping was not as effective as soil drenching. The study revealed that both the chalcones have the potential for effective management of RRKN in fields, and can be a better alternative to carbofuran.

557 A Novel Peer-Led Anatomage-Based Teaching Programme for Medical Students

Introduction

Anatomical knowledge is an essential part of surgical practice. However, its delivery lacks a standardised approach across medical school curricula. A student-led anatomy programme was implemented at a single institution, using near-peer teaching and Anatomage virtual dissection. This study aims to describe the methodology of this programme and determine the benefit of a near-peer taught anatomy course.

Method

The programme was organised by senior medical students, utilising Anatomage virtual dissection and techniques in line with Bigg’s constructive alignment. Attendees were asked to complete questionnaires with Likert scales (0-10) and open answer text to determine learners’ benefit. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses are presented.

Results

73 students attended eight sessions from January to March 2020. Students reported a statistically significant (p &lt; 0.01) increase in confidence after the sessions of 3.74±1.83. The quality and relevance of the teaching also scored highly (9.32±0.89 and 9.47±0.86 respectively). Qualitatively, students praised the "informal learning environment”, the structure of the sessions, the handout provided, and the interactivity of anatomage technology.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates how virtual dissection technology and near-peer teaching can derive significant benefit to undergraduate students, in line with previously published data.

In Silico Ventilation Within the Dose-Volume is Predictive of Lung Function Post-radiation Therapy in Patients with Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Radiation therapy (RT) is one method to treat this disease. A common side effect of RT for lung cancer is radiation-induced lung damage (RILD) which leads to loss of lung function. RILD often compounds pre-existing smoking-related regional lung function impairment. It is difficult to predict patient outcomes due to large variability in individual response to RT. In this study, the capability of image-based modelling of regional ventilation in lung cancer patients to predict lung function post-RT was investigated. Twenty-five patient-based models were created using CT images to define the airway geometry, size and location of tumour, and distribution of emphysema. Simulated ventilation within the 20 Gy isodose volume showed a statistically significant negative correlation with the change in forced expiratory volume in 1 s 12-months post-RT (p = 0.001, R = - 0.61). Patients with higher simulated ventilation within the 20 Gy isodose volume had a greater loss in lung function post-RT and vice versa. This relationship was only evident with the combined impact of tumour and emphysema, with the location of the emphysema relative to the dose-volume being important. Our results suggest that model-based ventilation measures can be used in the prediction of patient lung function post-RT.

Is higher power shorter duration radiofrequency energy is better than lower power longer duration strategy in catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation A meta-analysis

Background

An ideal strategy for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the left atrium should be efficient enough to achieve transmural lesions in left atrium with no or minimal collateral tissue damage. Resistive heating of high power short duration (HPSD) RFA has been found to result in lesions larger in width but lesser in depth compared to lower power longer duration (LPLD) RFA in some experimental studies.

Purpose

This meta-analysis was performed to compare procedural, short-term and long-term outcomes of HPSD versus LPLD RFA of AF.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed. Five observational studies meeting criteria were included in the meta-analysis. All the studies scored six or more points in the New-castle Ottawa scale. There were considerable variations in the ablation strategies across the studies. However, radiofrequency power more than 40W was considered as high power. Hypergeometric model with exact likelihood function was utilized for statistical analysis.

Results

Baseline parameters and ablation details have been depicted in Table 1. 740 patients with HPSD and 287 patients with LPLD ablation strategies, were followed up from 6 to 30 months. Total procedural time (P value &lt;0.0001) and ablation time (P value &lt;0.0001) were significantly lower in the HPSD group than LPLD group. However, the fluoroscopy time was similar (P value = 0.09) in both the groups (Table 2). There were no occurrences of atrio-esophageal fistula or pulmonary venous stenosis in any of the studies. Cardiac tamponade (P value = 0.56), stroke (P value = 0.70) and AF recurrences (P value = 0.81), were similar in both groups (Table 2).

Conclusion

Newer HPSD and conventional LPLD RFA, both the strategies are very safe procedure for treatment of RFA with low to no procedural complications. AF recurrence rates were reasonably high irrespective of ablation strategies, however, no strategy scored statistically better over the other one. Large randomized multi-centric studies with long-term follow up are needed to test the theoretical advantage of HPSD ablation over the traditional ablation strategy of AF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Effect of progesterone administration during growing phase of first dominant follicle on follicular wave pattern in buffalo heifers

In buffaloes, like other domestic mammals, antral follicles develop in a wave-like pattern. Factors predictive of a particular follicular wave pattern are yet to be identified. In this study, we examined the preponderance of 2- versus 3-wave patterns in 46 interovulatory intervals (IOIs) from 36 buffalo heifers, in which a subset of 10 heifers was scanned for 2 consecutive IOIs to record the repeatability of follicular wave pattern. Two-wave pattern was detected in 63.0% and 3-wave follicular pattern in 27.0% IOIs. The dominant follicles (DF) of both wave 1 as well as the ovulatory wave attained a smaller (P < 0.05) maximum diameter in 3-wave cycle as compared to 2-wave cycle. The mean duration of IOI was significantly shorter in 2-wave compared to three-wave cycles (20.5 ± 0.3 vs. 22.3 ± 0.2 days; P < 0.05). Out of 10 buffalo heifers, 7 displayed non-alternating patterns and 3 had alternating follicular wave patterns. We also tested the hypothesis that progesterone administration during early IOI results in increased preponderance of 3-wave pattern and heifers inseminated after ovulation of the third wave DF will have greater fertility. Sixteen heifers subjected to progesterone treatment from D0 (day of ovulation) in a decreasing dose until D5 were compared with control heifers (n = 10). Progesterone treatment significantly reduced the maximum diameter of DF of wave 1 (P < 0.001), whereas the mean duration of IOI remained unchanged (P > 0.05) between the two groups. Progesterone administration during early IOI significantly increased the proportion of 3-wave cycles as compared to control (P < 0.05). The hypothesis that progesterone administration during IOI results in increased preponderance of 3-wave pattern was supported. However, no change in fertility was recorded in progesterone-treated heifers (7 pregnant out of 16; 43.8%) as compared to untreated control heifers (4 out of 10 heifers; 40.0%). In summary, progesterone administration in buffalo heifers during the growing phase of wave 1 resulted in greater preponderance of 3-wave follicular patterns, with no significant effect on fertility.

Expression of Kisspeptin and its receptor in the hypothalamus of cyclic and acyclic buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Kisspeptin (Kiss1), neurokinin-B (NKB) and dynorphin (Dyn) neurons regulate the surge and pulsatile centres of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) in the hypothalamus and are modulated by the ovarian steroids. Accordingly, we studied the temporospatial expression of Kiss1, its receptor and other genes that regulate GnRH in the preoptic area (POA) and arcuate (ARC) regions of hypothalamus at different phases of bubaline estrous cycle. Brain of buffalo (n = 32) was collected immediately after exsanguination and categorized into early luteal (EL), mid luteal (ML), follicular (FL) stages and acyclic (n = 8/group). Total RNA was extracted from the POA and ARC of each stage and real time PCR amplification of Kiss1, Kiss1r, NKB, NKB receptor (NKBR), Dyn, Dyn receptor (OPRK1), GnRH1, ERα, PR, LEPR and GHSR was done using GAPDH as endogenous control and acyclic stage as calibrator group. Further, immunolocalization of Kiss1 and Kiss1r was done on the hypothalamus. In the POA, significant up-regulation of Kiss1 and NKB with a concomitant down-regulation of Dyn transcripts was recorded at FL stage. There was, however, down-regulation of Kiss1 and Kiss1r during the EL perhaps due to the loss of estradiol as a consequence of ovulation. On the other hand, in the ARC, there was a significant up-regulation of Kiss1 and Dyn at FL and ML, while NKB transcript was consistently down-regulated at any stage of estrous cycle. In the POA, expression of ERα was not modulated; however, PR was down-regulated in the EL. In the ARC, the ERα expression was significantly up-regulated in the EL, whereas, PR was moderately expressed irrespective of the stage of estrous cycle. The immunolocalization study revealed the presence of Kiss1 and Kiss1r in the POA and ARC in the cyclic buffalo with relative abundance at FL. The transcriptional profile of the genes suggests that there is estrous cycle stage specific expression of Kiss1, Kiss1r and other GnRH regulating genes in the POA and ARC regions of hypothalamus in the buffalo. Up-regulation of Kiss1r in the POA during ML and ARC during EL indicates the involvement of kisspeptinergic system in the regulation of low LH pulse frequencies during the early and mid luteal phases in the cyclic buffalo.

Line Immunoassay: A Rapid Test for Screening TORCH Complex in Antenatal Patients with Bad Obstetric History

TORCH {Toxoplasma gondii, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)} infection causes pregnancy wastage at any stage of gestation. Serological assays can be an important tool for diagnosis. It includes ELISA which is highly specific & sensitive with certain drawbacks like time consuming and for each genus separate test have to be done. Line-Immunoassay (LIA), a newer, cheaper and reliable technique on contrary is done on single panel strip. The present retrospective study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the efficacy of Line Immunoassay for detection of TORCH IgM antibodies. A total of 630 samples from the pregnant women with Bad Obstetric History (BOH) attending OPD and IPD of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Science & Research (MMIMSR), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India from 2011 to 2015 were subjected to Line-Immunoassay and ELISA for detection of IgM antibodies against TORCH agents in Department of Microbiology. The analysis for TORCH complex showed 32.85% positivity by LIA while 36.03% by ELISA. The diagnostic accuracy of LIA when ELISA considered gold standard was also exhibited which showed Sensitivity of 90.75%, Specificity of 99.75% while PPV & NPV were 99.52%, 95.05% respectively. The statistical analysis showed results were statistically insignificant (p value >0.05). Comparison of detection of TORCH IgM antibodies by ELISA & Line-Immunoassay express good sensitivity & specificity requiring significantly less time and low cost by Line-Immunoassay, concludes that Line-Immunoassay may be used as screening test.

Organic zinc and copper supplementation on antioxidant protective mechanism and their correlation with sperm functional characteristics in goats

Trace minerals feeding had significant effects on sperm production and fertility with better absorption and proper utilization within the body for optimum reproductive function. Several studies have shown that more influenced trace elements in the diets of animals are copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn). Bucks showing deficiency of this mineral might affect the quality of semen production which in turn would affect the fertility. This experiment was thus designed to test the effects of organic Cu and Zn supplementation on antioxidants enzyme activities and sperm functional attributes in fresh semen of bucks. Forty bucks (n = 40, Aged 5 months) were assigned to ten groups of four animals in each group, supplemented (for a period of 8 months) with different levels of organic Zn: 20 mg (T2), 40 mg (T3) and 60 mg (T4), organic Cu: 12.5 mg (T5), 25 mg (T6), 37.5 mg (T7) and combined organic Zn and Cu: 20 + 12.5 mg (T8), 40 + 25 mg (T9), 60 + 37.5 mg (T10), respectively, per kg dry matter and no additional mineral diet (control; T1). One hundred and sixty semen samples were collected through electro-ejaculator and analysed for sperm quantity, quality, acrosome intactness and plasma membrane integrity and correlated with the catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzyme activities in seminal plasma. The results indicated organic Cu and zinc supplemented bucks produced more sperm cells, had higher sperm concentrations, maintained higher (p < .01) sperm livability, plasma membrane and acrosome integrities, more motility and velocity. The increased antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced oxidative stress and lowered lipid peroxidation were positively correlated (p < .05) with the sperm functional attributes. In conclusion, organic Cu and Zn supplement to male goats showed protective roles against oxidative damage and maintained better fresh semen characteristics.

Evidence of local structural influence on the shape driven magnetic anisotropy in electronically excited Ni nanoparticles embedded in SiO2 matrix

The reliance of modern electronic era on ultrafast data recording has made the search for novel tools to tune nano-scale magnetic-anisotropy (MA) never-ending. We demonstrate a strong correlation between the spin-spin interactions, local atomic structure and the MA of Ni nanoparticles (NPs) embedded inside SiO₂ matrix under swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation. In contrast to traditional understandings, MA in Ni NPs along with their aspect ratio, first increases upto 5 × 10¹³ ions/cm² SHI fluence (5e13) and gets reduced at highest fluence. Using angle dependent Extented-Xray-Absorption-Fine-Structure (EXAFS) and ab initio molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we show that the anisotropy induced in local atomic structure upon irradiation is dependent on atomic spin-spin interactions, which gets reduced at highest fluence. The chosen model cluster (Ni₃₈) used in our MD simulations is duly validated by comparing the pair-correlation-function of the structure with the EXAFS-Fourier-Transform. The lattice temperatures for the films irradiated at different fluences, as calculated from thermal-spike-model, are used for the respective MD runs. We conclude that the enhanced disorder in both the local atomic environment and spin alignment destroys the MA at the highest fluence in SHI irradiated Ni NPs. The findings therefore provide rich conceptual insights for designing magnetic devices using SHI-induced phenomena.

Human milk oligosaccharide categories define the microbiota composition in human colostrum

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are structurally diverse unconjugated glycans with a composition unique to each lactating mother. While HMOs have been shown to have an impact on the development of infant gut microbiota, it is not well known if HMOs also already affect milk microbial composition. To address this question, we analysed eleven colostrum samples for HMO content by high-pressure liquid chromatography and microbiota composition by quantitative PCR. Higher total HMO concentration was associated with higher counts of Bifidobacterium spp. (ρ=0.63, P=0.036). A distinctive effect was seen when comparing different HMO groups: positive correlations were observed between sialylated HMOs and Bifidobacterium breve (ρ=0.84, P=0.001), and non-fucosylated/non-sialylated HMOs and Bifidobacterium longum group (ρ=0.65, P=0.030). In addition to associations between HMOs and bifidobacteria, positive correlations were observed between fucosylated HMOs and Akkermansia muciniphila (ρ=0.70, P=0.017), and between fucosylated/sialylated HMOs and Staphylococcus aureus (ρ=0.75, P=0.007). Our results suggest that the characterised HMOs have an effect on specific microbial groups in human milk. Both oligosaccharides and microbes provide a concise inoculum for the compositional development of the infant gut microbiota.

Genome-wide gene expression pattern underlying differential host response to high or low pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus in ducks

The differences in the influenza viral pathogenesis observed between different pathogenic strains are associated with distinct properties of virus strains and the host immune responses. In order to determine the differences in the duck immune response against two different pathogenic strains, we studied genome-wide host immune gene response of ducks infected with A/duck/India/02CA10/2011 and A/duck/Tripura/103597/2008 H5N1 viruses using custom-designed microarray. A/duck/India/02CA10/2011 is highly pathogenic virus (HP) to ducks, whereas A/duck/Tripura/103597/2008 is a low pathogenic (LP) virus strain. Comparative lung tissue transcriptome analysis of differentially expressed genes revealed that 686 genes were commonly expressed, 880 and 1556 genes are expressed uniquely to infection with HP and LP virus, respectively. The up-regulation of chemokines (CCL4 and CXCR4) and IFN-stimulated genes (IFITM2, STAT3, TGFB1 and TGFB3) was observed in the lung tissues of ducks infected with HP virus. The up-regulation of other immune genes (IL17, OAS, SOCS3, MHC I and MHC II) was observed in both infection conditions. The expression of important antiviral immune genes MX, IFIT5, IFITM5, ISG12, β-defensins, RSAD2, EIF2AK2, TRIM23 and SLC16A3 was observed in LP virus infection, but not in HP virus infection. Several immune-related gene ontology terms and pathways activated by both the viruses were qualitatively similar but quantitatively different. Based on these findings, the differences in the host immune response might explain a part of the difference observed in the viral pathogenesis of high and low pathogenic influenza strains in ducks.

Ovulatory and fertility response using modified Heatsynch and Ovsynch protocols in the anovular Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

We studied the effect of modified Heatsynch and Ovsynch protocols on the ovulatory response (OR), estrus induction rate (EIR) and conception rate (CR) in the anovular postpartum Murrah buffalo (n = 35). In the modified Heatsynch protocol (Group I; n = 12), buffaloes were given two GnRH at 2 h interval on treatment day 0, PGF (PGF2α) on day 7 and estradiol (E₂) 1 mg on day 8. Two FTAI were done at 20 h intervals after E₂ administration. In the modified Ovsynch protocol (Group II; n = 15), GnRH was given on day 0, 7 and 16 with a PGF on day 14. Two FTAI were done; one at last GnRH and the other 20 h later. Group III served as untreated negative control (n = 8). During the treatment, ovarian changes were monitored by transrectal ultrasonography and plasma progesterone (P₄) and E₂. Administration of two GnRH at 2 h interval neither increased the OR nor strengthened the subsequent P₄ priming. Interestingly, in group I, none of the buffalo ovulated to E₂ though the EIR was 100% indicating the occurrence of behavioral, but not ovulatory estrus. Administration of GnRH 7 day prior to the commencement of Ovsynch protocol (Group II) did not improve the CR (21.4%), though the OR was 71.4%. No significant difference was found in the diameter of largest follicle between the ovulated and non-ovulated buffalo in response to GnRH suggesting that follicle of ≥9.5 mm is necessary but not sufficient to induce ovulation in the anovular buffalo. In both the protocols, the plasma P₄ was higher on day 7 in those buffaloes that ovulated to GnRH. Buffaloes treated with modified Ovsynch regimens were 5.27 times more likely to become pregnant than modified Heatsynch protocol. It is concluded that modified Ovsynch protocol is superior to modified Heatsynch protocol in terms of OR and CR.

Evidence for age-dependent air-space enlargement contributing to loss of lung tissue elastic recoil pressure and increased shear modulus in older age

As a normal part of mature aging, lung tissue undergoes microstructural changes such as alveolar air-space enlargement and redistribution of collagen and elastin away from the alveolar duct. The older lung also experiences an associated decrease in elastic recoil pressure and an increase in specific tissue elastic moduli, but how this relates mechanistically to microstructural remodeling is not well-understood. In this study, we use a structure-based mechanics analysis to elucidate the contributions of age-related air-space enlargement and redistribution of elastin and collagen to loss of lung elastic recoil pressure and increase in tissue elastic moduli. Our results show that age-related geometric changes can result in reduction of elastic recoil pressure and increase in shear and bulk moduli, which is consistent with published experimental data. All elastic moduli were sensitive to the distribution of stiffness (representing elastic fiber density) in the alveolar wall, with homogenous stiffness near the duct and through the septae resulting in a more compliant tissue. The preferential distribution of elastic proteins around the alveolar duct in the healthy young adult lung therefore provides for a more elastic tissue.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We use a structure-based mechanics analysis to correlate air-space enlargement and redistribution of elastin and collagen to age-related changes in the mechanical behavior of lung parenchyma. Our study highlights that both the cause (redistribution of elastin and collagen) and the structural effect (alveolar air-space enlargement) contribute to decline in lung tissue elastic recoil with age; these results are consistent with published data and provide a new avenue for understanding the mechanics of the older lung.

Outcome of Surgical Drainage of the Pancreatic Duct in Chronic Pancreatitis

Abdominal pain, one of the major symptoms of chronic pancreatitis, is believed to be caused by obstruction of the pancreatic duct system by stones or strictures. This results in increased intraductal pressure and parenchymal ischemia. Surgical decompression of the duct and ductal drainage can achieve best pain relieve and slow the progression of the disease. We want to share our experience of surgical drainage of pancreatic duct in chronic pancreatitis in our hospital. We studied 20 cases operated in our hospital between January 2010 and October 2015. Patients were selected with pre-operative ultrasonography. Dilatation of the main pancreatic duct by at least 7 mm proximal to the obstruction were recruited for operation. We did Roux-Y lateral pancreato-jejunostomy (LPJ) for patients with obstruction of the pancreatic duct due to stricture or intraductal stones or both. We did additional distal pancreatectomy in case of stone in the tail area.We did one Frey's operation for stone and fibro-calcification of the head. We evaluated their symptoms, their duration, post-operative hospital stay and complications following surgery. We studied their pain control, recurrence and mortality during this period. We followed these patients for more than 5 years. We found 16 out of 20 patients got complete remission of the abdominal pain with no progression of their disease. Ultrasonic evidence of chronic pancreatitis have improved or resolved. Ductal diameter has decreased. They did not develop diabetes or malabsorbtion. One had a recurrence of stone in the head within a year. Three died during this follow-up period. One died three months after LPJ due to massive gangrene of the small intestine distal to LPJ and jejuno-jejunostomy and subsequent short bowel syndrome. Other two developed carcinoma of the pancreas within one year and six months after LPJ respectively. Rate of pain free survival is about 75% and recurrence is 5%. Mortality during this follow up period is 15%. In this small series, we found that surgery if done early, can have good remission of abdominal pain and can slow the progression of chronic pancreatitis in majority of patient. Patient with chronic calcific pancreatitis and diabetes are likely to have unfavorable outcome even after decompressive surgery.

p53 immunohistochemical staining patterns in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Background: Mutation of p53 gene is one of the most common events in oral carcinogenesis. Accumulation of p53 protein has also been detected in premalignant lesions.Materials and Methods:  This study included 40 biopsy samples, which were received in department of pathology, Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, to ascertain p53 expression by immunohistochemically, in patients with oral squamous cell carcinomas and to correlate its expression with histological grade, different sites in oral cavity and tobacco intake/smoking habits.Results: Out of 40 biopsies of oral mucosa, 03 showed normal oral mucosa and 37 were diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), most patients were in 5th and 6th decade and majority (86.5%) of oral SCC were males with buccal mucosa being the most common site. There was a statistically significant difference in p53 expression between oral SCC and normal oral mucosa (p value <0.05). Of total 37 cases, 12 cases were well differentiated type, 16 moderately differentiated and 09 of poorly differentiated type of SCC. In each category, about two thirds were positive for p53 staining. Out of total 37 cases of oral SCC, 64.9% were positive and 35.1% were negative for p53 expression, 34 cases had positive history of tobacco intake/smoking habits, of which 23 cases were positive while 11 cases were negative for p53 staining.Conclusion: Abnormal p53 protein was detected in 64.9% of oral squamous cell carcinoma, but not in normal oral mucosa. p53 expression was associated with malignant transformation of oral mucosa. 

Cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in placental separation in the bovine: A review

Retention of fetal membranes (RFM), where the fetal placenta is not expelled within 8-12 hr after calving, lowers bovine productivity and fertility, resulting in significant economic loss to the dairy industry. Several risk factors that predispose an individual to RFM are known, but a unifying pathogenesis remains elusive due to its multifactorial etiology. Fetal membrane separation and expulsion after parturition involves structural and immunological changes of the bovine placentome that are governed predominantly by steroid hormones and the prostaglandin milieu of late pregnancy and parturition. Maturation of the placentome, a gradual and concerted event of late gestation, is likely initiated by the up-regulation of fetal major histocompatibility complex class I in the interplacentomal region-which increases the apoptosis of binucleate and other trophoblastic cells, the degradation of collagen in the extracellular matrix by matrix metalloproteinases, and an influx of phagocytic leukocytes. Shear force further distorts the crypt architecture of the mature placentomes when they are forced against the fetus during the second stage of labor. Cotyledon dehiscence from the caruncular crypts is completed following fetal expulsion as a result of acute shrinkage of the cotelydonary villi as well as reduced perfusion to the caruncle; the secundinae is expelled by uterine contractions. A better understanding of placentomal maturation, intra-partum, and immediate postpartum changes of the placentome should help develop strategies for the treatment and prevention of RFM. The present review proposes a model of placentome maturation and separation of fetal membranes in the dairy cow.

AIMP1 downregulation restores chondrogenic characteristics of dedifferentiated/degenerated chondrocytes by enhancing TGF-β signal

Dedifferentiation and degeneration of chondrocytes critically influences the efficiency of cartilage repair. One of the causes is the defect of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling that promotes chondrogenic differentiation and degeneration. In the present study, we found that aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase-interacting multifunctional protein 1 (AIMP1) negatively regulates TGF-β signaling via interactions with Smad2 and Smad3 in immunoprecipitation assay and luciferase assay. In addition, we observed that the AIMP1 expression level was significantly increased in osteoarthritis (OA) patient-derived degenerated chondrocytes compared with healthy control. So, we hypothesized that downregulation of AIMP1 using small-interfering RNA (siRNA) technology in dedifferentiated (collected at passage #6) and degenerated (obtained from OA-affected areas) chondrocytes could lead to recover TGF-β signaling in both chondrocytes. Indeed, AIMP1 downregulation restored TGF-β signaling by promoting phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3, which shows redifferentiated characteristics in both dedifferentiated and degenerated chondrocytes. Additionally, implantation analyses using in vivo mouse model clearly showed that AIMP1 downregulation resulted in the increased chondrogenic potential as well as the enhanced cartilage tissue formation in both dedifferentiated and degenerated chondrocytes. Histological analyses clarified that AIMP1 downregulation increased expression levels of collagen type II (Col II) and aggrecan, but not Col I expression. Taken together, these data indicate that AIMP1 downregulation using siRNA is a novel tool to restore TGF-β signaling and thereby increases the chondrogenic potential of dedifferentiated/degenerated chondrocytes, which could be further developed as a therapeutic siRNA to treat OA.

The case in favour of probiotics before, during and after pregnancy: insights from the first 1,500 days

Successful human reproduction requires microbial homeostasis in the female reproductive tract, and colonisation of the newborn with beneficial microbes. In order to prevent several complications associated with dysbiosis, the administration of probiotics is more often being considered. The objective of the enclosed review was to examine the rationale for probiotic utility before and during pregnancy and in the early phase of infant life. The conclusions emerged from a panel of researchers who met during the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) workshop held in Washington, DC, USA in 2015. The group concluded based upon the current literature, that a case can be made for the use of a specific sets of probiotic organisms during the first 1,500 days of life, with the goal of a healthy pregnancy to term, and a healthy start to life with lowered risk of infections and inflammatory events. The key to successfully translating these recommendations to practice is that products be made available and affordable to women in developed and developing countries.

Evaluating a murine model of endometritis using uterine isolates of Escherichia coli from postpartum buffalo

Ascending infection of the uterus with Gram-negative bacteria is responsible for postpartum endometritis in cattle and buffalo and can adversely affect fertility. Development of a laboratory animal model for bovine endometritis would facilitate the understanding of the pathogenesis as it is difficult to conduct controlled experimentation in the native host. In the present study, 30 virgin Swiss Albino mice (5-8 weeks old) were used to evaluate the pathogenic potential of Escherichia coli, isolated from the normally calved postpartum buffalo to induce endometritis. Mice in the diestrus phase of the estrous cycle were randomly allotted to one of the following four intravaginal inoculation (100 μL) treatments: EG (experimental group)-1: sterile normal saline; EG-2, -3 and -4: E. coli^@ 1.5 × 10⁴, 10⁵ and 10⁶ CFU/ml, respectively. The animals were then scarified 36 h post-inoculation to study gross and microscopical lesions. Gross changes were confined to EG-4. Acute endometritis was recorded in 50% of the EG-3 and 66.7% of the EG-4. The rate of acute endometritis development was significantly higher in EG-4 (P<0.05) as compared to the other groups. The present study demonstrated that the animal model for bubaline endometritis can be developed in mice by intravaginal inoculation of E.coli^@ 1.5 × 10⁶ CFU/ml at diestrus. Ease of intravaginal inoculation, apparent absence of systemic involvement and high infective rate are the advantages of the model over other studies.

Histological evaluation of 400 cholecystectomy specimens

Background: A majority of gallbladder specimens show changes associated with chronic cholecystitis; however few harbour a highly lethal carcinoma. This study was conducted to review the significant histopathological findings encountered in gallbladder specimens received in our laboratory.Materials and Methods: Four hundred cholecystectomy specimens were studied over a period of five years (May, 2002 to April, 2007) received at department of pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, India. Results: Gallstones and associated diseases were more common in women in the 4th to 5th decade as compared to men with M: F ratio of 1:1.33. Maximum number of patients (28.25%) being 41 to 50 years old. Histopathologically, the most common diagnosis was chronic cholecystitis (66.75%), followed by chronic active cholecystitis (20.25%), acute cholecystitis (6%), gangrenous cholecystitis (2.25%),xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (0.50%), empyema (1%), mucocele (0.25%), choledochal cyst (0.25%), adenocarcinoma gallbladder (1.25%) and  normal  gallbladders (1%).Conclusion: All lesions were found more frequently in women except chronic active cholecystitis. Gallstones were present in (80.25%) cases, and significantly associated with various lesions (P value 0.009). Pigment stones were most common, followed by cholesterol stones and mixed stones. Adequate  sectioning  is  mandatory  in  all  cases  to  assess  epithelial changes arising from cholelithiasis and chronic cholecystitis as it has been known to progress to malignancy in some cases.