Silver nanoparticles based spectroscopic sensing of eight metal ions in aqueous solutions

Anthropogenic releases from different outlets of industry, municipal sewage and the road traffic can give rise to higher concentrations of heavy metals in food commodities which imposes a threat to human health and environment. A simple silver nanoparticle (Ag NPs) used for the sensing of heavy metal ions, Cd²⁺, Cu²⁺, Fe²⁺, Hg²⁺, Mn²⁺, Ni²⁺, Pb²⁺ and Zn²⁺ in aqueous solution is described qualitatively and quantitatively using spectroscopic tool. FE-SEM and TEM images confirmed that the particles are spherical in shape with an average diameter of 23.4 nm. Presence of heavy metal ions with Ag NPs gives, new peak at around 925, 898, 643, 665, 688, and 838 nm for Cd²⁺, Cu²⁺, Fe²⁺, Hg²⁺, Mn²⁺ and Zn²⁺ in addition to the peak found at 410 nm for Ag NPs. Further, the addition of Ni²⁺ and Pb²⁺ metal ion solution with Ag NPs increased the SPR band from 410 nm to 436 and 462 nm respectively. Citrate functionalized Ag NPs aggregate in solution in the presence of divalent metal ions by ions-template chelating process and are easily measurable changes in the UV-vis absorption spectrum of the particles. Further, studies also confirmed the interaction of Ag NPs with metal ions using FT-IR spectroscopy. The proposed method was found to be useful for simple UV-vis spectroscopic sensing of metal ions in aqueous solutions and real contaminated samples.

Comparison of switching to 6-week dosing of natalizumab versus continuing with 4-week dosing in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (NOVA): a randomised, controlled, open-label, phase 3b trial

BACKGROUND

Treatment with natalizumab once every 4 weeks is approved for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, but is associated with a risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Switching to extended-interval dosing is associated with lower progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy risk, but the efficacy of this approach is unclear. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of natalizumab once every 6 weeks compared with once every 4 weeks in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

METHODS

We did a randomised, controlled, open-label, phase 3b trial (NOVA) at 89 multiple sclerosis centres across 11 countries in the Americas, Europe, and Western Pacific. Included participants were aged 18-60 years with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and had been treated with intravenous natalizumab 300 mg once every 4 weeks with no relapses for at least 12 months before randomisation, with no missed doses in the previous 3 months. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1), using a randomisation sequence generated by the study funder and contract personnel with interactive response technology, to switch to natalizumab once every 6 weeks or continue with once every 4 weeks. The centralised MRI reader, independent neurology evaluation committee, site examining neurologists, site backup examining neurologists, and site examining technicians were masked to study group assignments. The primary endpoint was the number of new or newly enlarging T2 hyperintense lesions at week 72, assessed in all participants who received at least one dose of assigned treatment and had at least one postbaseline MRI, relapse, or neurological examination or efficacy assessment. Missing primary endpoint data were handled under prespecified primary and secondary estimands: the primary estimand included all data, regardless of whether participants remained on the assigned treatment; the secondary estimand classed all data obtained after treatment discontinuation or study withdrawal as missing. Safety was assessed in all participants who received at least one dose of study treatment. Study enrolment is closed and an open-label extension study is ongoing. This study is registered with EudraCT, 2018-002145-11, and ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03689972.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 26, 2018, and Aug 30, 2019, 605 patients were assessed for eligibility and 499 were enrolled and assigned to receive natalizumab once every 6 weeks (n=251) or once every 4 weeks (n=248). After prespecified adjustments for missing data, mean numbers of new or newly enlarging T2 hyperintense lesions at week 72 were 0·20 (95% CI 0·07-0·63) in the once every 6 weeks group and 0·05 (0·01-0·22) in the once every 4 weeks group (mean lesion ratio 4·24 [95% CI 0·86-20·85]; p=0·076) under the primary estimand, and 0·31 (95% CI 0·12-0·82) and 0·06 (0·01-0·31; mean lesion ratio 4·93 [95% CI 1·05-23·20]; p=0·044) under the secondary estimand. Two participants in the once every 6 weeks group with extreme new or newly enlarging T2 hyperintense lesion numbers (≥25) contributed most of the excess lesions. Adverse events occurred in 194 (78%) of 250 participants in the once every 6 weeks group and 190 (77%) of 247 in the once every 4 weeks group, and serious adverse events occurred in 17 (7%) and 17 (7%), respectively. No deaths were reported. There was one case of asymptomatic progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (without clinical signs) in the once every 6 weeks group, and no cases in the once every 4 weeks group; 6 months after diagnosis, the participant was without increased disability and remained classified as asymptomatic.

INTERPRETATION

We found a numerical difference in the mean number of new or newly enlarging T2 hyperintense lesions at week 72 between the once every 6 weeks and once every 4 weeks groups, which reached significance under the secondary estimand, but interpretation of statistical differences (or absence thereof) is limited because disease activity in the once every 4 weeks group was lower than expected. The safety profiles of natalizumab once every 6 weeks and once every 4 weeks were similar. Although this trial was not powered to assess differences in risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, the occurrence of the (asymptomatic) case underscores the importance of monitoring and risk factor consideration in all patients receiving natalizumab.

FUNDING

Biogen.

Thermodynamic Investigation of a Modified Compression Ignition Engine Fueled by Diesel Biodiesel Ethanol Blends

The present study contrasts the thermodynamics analysis of modified diesel engines with traditional diesel engines. Thermodynamics study is done by the use of energy and exergy analysis for diesel, B20 (blend of 80 per cent diesel by volume with 20 per cent mahua biodiesel) and LHR modification and LTC 15 per cent EGR fuelled with B20 blend and 5 per cent ethanol with various loads ranging from no load to full load. Implemented two technologies for increasing engine efficiency. One of the primary techniques is the Low Heat Rejection (LHR) concept (or the so-called “Adiabatic” engine) applied. In the engine cylinder, a ceramic layer of Alumina (Al2O3) was used to modify the Low Heat Rejection (LHR). Another technique is Low-temperature combustion (LTC) modes are added by joining the inlet and exhaust pipes through valves to control the exhaust gas at an optimal rate of 15 per cent. The findings of energy and exergy distribution in the engine were compared using optimum alterations with fuel blends such as 20 per cent mahua biodiesel and 5 per cent ethanol. From energy distribution, best shaft power (QBP) (2.8kW) is transformed from heat input observed in the optimum altered engine at full load conditions compared to others. Due to modifications employed in the engine and fuels. Maximum unaccounted energy (QUN) loss in diesel (44 %). And highest thermal efficiency (31.2 %) is revealed in B20E5 (LHR+15 % LTC). From exergy distribution, it noticed that the same trend of energy distribution and at 100 per cent load condition, maximum (12.54kW) in diesel and minimum (8.45 kW) in B20E5 (LHR+15 % LTC) has obtained input availability (Ain).The maximum conversion rate of availability in brake power (Abp) (0.61 kW) in B20 (LHR). Compared to diesel, second law or exergetic efficiency more in B20E5 (LHR+15 % LTC). 

A comparative study of the effect of electroconvulsive therapy and transcranial direct current stimulation in the treatment of persons suffering from treatment-resistant depression

BACKGROUND

About 20%-30% of persons with major depression are said to have treatment-resistant depression (TRD) when they do not respond to antidepressants. These people continue to suffer in life and have poor quality of life. Although electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most successful option in treating TRD, many people refuse ECT due to various reasons (stigma, the cost involved, and medical complications). Various studies combine treatment options such as psychotherapy, repetitive trans magnetic stimulation, ketamine, and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in an attempt to reduce symptoms for those people suffering from TRD. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of ECT and tDCS in TRD.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 90 persons suffering from TRD were selected for the study. 46 persons received 6 ECTs and 44 persons received 10 sessions of tDCS. Treatment response was measured using baseline and postassessment scores of Hamilton depression rating scale and clinical global impression. The scores were used to determine the effectiveness of ECT in comparison to tDCS in TRD.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The mean ± standard deviation was analyzed and paired t-test was used to find the significance of treatment outcome in a group at a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

ECT was found to be more effective than tDCS in the reduction of depressive symptoms. tDCS showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms (P < 0.001). ECT has yet again been proven to be effective in the treatment of TRD.

CONCLUSION AND DISCUSSION

tDCS is effective in reducing depressive symptoms in persons suffering from TRD. However, ECT is superior in decreasing depressive symptoms in TRD when compared to tDCS.

A Cross-Sectional Study on Internet Addiction Among Adolescent Children of Parents With Mental Illness

BACKGROUND

The internet can cause adverse psychological issues in children whose parents show less competence because of their mental illness. This study aims to find the level of internet addiction among adolescents who have a parent with psychiatric illness and its relationship to the type and duration of their parent's illness.

METHOD

This study was conducted among 283 adolescents whose parents suffered from mental illness. They were selected from the inpatient and outpatient services of a neuropsychiatric hospital in India. Informed written consent was obtained from the parent not suffering from psychiatric illness, and a semistructured interview accommodating various factors and statements from the internet addiction test was used to find the level of internet addiction.

RESULT

A total of 79.5% of adolescents showed scores indicative of internet addiction, with 14.5% of the participants having mild levels of addiction, 60.8% having moderate levels of addiction, and 4.2% having severe levels of addiction. There is a significant relationship between internet addiction scores and the type and duration of psychiatric illness in a parent.

CONCLUSION

The internet addiction scores in adolescents have a significant relationship to the various types of illnesses and the duration of illness of their parents.

Development and Validation of the Smartphone Addiction Scale for Children- Parent Version (SASC-P)

Introduction: The use of smartphone among children and adolescents has been increasing steadily over the past decade and is becoming a cause of concern for parents and healthcare professionals alike. Excessive use of smartphone could make a child vulnerable to develop addictive behaviour leading to decrease in academic performance and impairments in social and personal environment. Early identification is key to addressing this issue and although there are scales to measure smartphone addiction in adults, there are no scales to measure smartphone use in children objectively. Aim: To construct a smartphone addiction scale for children that can be administered to parents. Materials and Methods: A set of statements were created to assess smartphone addiction in children. Initially, 43 statements were selected after identifying its content validity and face validity and the scale was administered to parents of children in the age group of 3-17 years after obtaining informed consent from the parents. The construct validity was examined by the exploratory factor analysis. The screen plot of ordered eigen values of a correlation matrix was used to decide the appropriate number of factors extracted. A factor loading of >0.30 was used to determine the items for each factor. Intra-class correlations were calculated for the test-retest reliability, and Cronbach's alpha was calculated for the internal consistency. The final questionnaire contained 24 statements across six subdomains of smartphone addiction and it was administered to a small sample group of 65 parents of children aged 3-17 years and the data was used to test for reliability and validity of the scale. Results: Alpha correlation for the Smartphone Addiction Scale for Children-Parent (SASC-P) ranged from 0.670 to 0.823. The intrinsic validity for the domains was calculated using Cronbach’s alpha and it ranged from 0.819 to 0.907 for the domains and was 0.972 for the whole questionnaire. Thus the scale was found to be reliable and valid for use in children and adolescents. Conclusion: The SASC-P has good reliability and validity and can be used to measure smartphone use in children and adolescent.

Evaluation of a web-based fall prevention program among people with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Falls are common and impactful in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) but currently there is no accepted standard of care for fall prevention in MS. Evidence supports that the in-person, group-based, Free from Falls (FFF) program is associated with both immediate and six-month sustained improvements in mobility and balance and a reduction in falls, but program attendance is limited by access to the class at a given time and location and by the cost and availability of trained facilitators. Therefore, we developed and evaluated an online, web-based version of FFF, Free from Falls Online (FFFO).

METHODS

Thirty people with MS who reported falling at least twice in the previous two months were randomized to FFFO or to a control group. FFFO consists of eight weekly sessions, each with an instructional and exercise component. Subjects in the control group were given a brochure on minimizing fall risk, a letter was sent to their treating physician informing them that the subject reported falling, and these subjects were invited to use the FFFO program at study completion. Outcomes included baseline demographics, falls prospectively reported for the eight weeks of intervention and the following three months, and a program satisfaction survey for the active group. Regression models were used to test for associations between treatment group and fall incidence.

RESULTS

Subjects' mean age was 55.8 years, 70% were female, 73% had progressive MS, median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was 6.0, and subjects reported a median of two falls in the month prior to study enrollment. Although, in general, regression models demonstrated trends that those in the intervention group were less likely to fall than those in the control group, statistical significance was only achieved (p = 0.0038) with a post hoc model evaluating the relationship between the square of days and the probability of not falling. This model supported that those in the intervention group were slightly less likely to fall than those in the control group. This difference was most prominent in the first month of the study, less prominent in the following month, and not sustained three months following the intervention. User experience with FFFO was overall positive, with over 75% reporting the web-based program easy to learn and to use, 85% reporting the program was easy to follow, 62% reporting the material to be useful, and 77% finding the exercises to be a useful component of the program.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the viability of online delivery of self-management strategies in MS, suggests that FFFO may help prevent falls in people with MS, and provides the preliminary data needed to verify the findings of this pilot study of FFFO with a fully powered randomized controlled trial in people with MS.

Antiviral activity of ethanolic extract of Nilavembu Kudineer against dengue and chikungunya virus through in vitro evaluation

Background

Currently, no vaccines or modern drugs are available for dengue and chikungunya and only symptomatic relief is provided to the patients. Siddha medicine, a traditional form of indigenous medical system uses specific polyherbal formulations for the treatment of such infections with considerable success. One such polyherbal formulation for the treatment of chikungunya and dengue is Nilavembu kudineer (NVK). The mechanistic details of this drug as an antiviral for chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and dengue virus (DENV) is poorly understood.

Objectives

The current study was undertaken to study the efficacy of NVK as an antiviral formulation against CHIKV and DENV.

Materials and methods

Cytotoxicity assays (MTT) were performed to determine the role of NVK as an antiviral during chikungunya and dengue infections in the following conditions-i). post infection, ii). during active infections and iii) protective, not allowing virus infection.

Results

It was observed that NVK provides protection against CHIKV and DENV-2 during active infection as well can help to prevent virus infection in the cells and it mainly depends on the cellular availability of drugs for maximum protection against both the infections.

Conclusion

Our study establishes that extraction protocols are important to ensure maximum efficacy of NVK along with the time of addition of the drug during CHIKV and DENV infections in the cells. This study provides insights to the possible mode of action of NVK in in vitro condition during CHIKV and DENV infection.

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Andrographis is a major component of Nilavembu kudineer.

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Andrographis is more cytotoxic when used singularly and hence is used as a polyherbal formulation.

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Ethanol Extract of Nilavembu Kudineer (NVK) exhibit antiviral properties.

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NVK has a prophylactic effect during chikungunya and dengue virus (CHIKV and DENV respectively) infection.

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NVK exhibits antiviral activity during active CHIKV and DENV infections.

Abstract 1382: Novel dual inhibitors of LSD1-HDAC6/8 for treatment of cancer

LSD1 is an FAD-dependent amine oxidase that removes methyl groups from mono- or dimethylated histone H3 lysine 4 (H3-K4) as a part of CoREST repressor complex. Recent studies have shown that there is crosstalk between two components of CoREST complex, LSD1 and HDAC, which provides an advantage to cancer cell proliferation and survival by regulating key signaling pathways. Accordingly, combined inhibition of LSD1 and HDAC has been shown to be more efficacious in inhibiting the growth of glioblastoma, AML and breast cancer. Therefore, dual inhibitors targeting both LSD1 and HDAC could be useful in treating several cancers effectively without enhancing systemic toxicity mediated by administration of multiple drugs. To test the hypothesis, we have developed a set of molecules that either have LSD1 activity alone or dual activity on LSD1 and HDAC. Computational chemistry approaches were used to design LSD1-HDAC dual inhibitors. In vitro LSD1 potency was assessed by TR-FRET assay and in vitro HDAC activity by fluorimetric HDAC activity assay. Western blotting and RT qPCR were used to assess biomarkers of LSD1 and HDAC inhibition. Alamar blue cytotoxicity assay was used to assess cell proliferation. Multiple compounds from this series show an in vitro potency of less than 0.05 μM against LSD1 with more than 100-fold selectivity against MAOs. The dual inhibitors showed stronger activity on HDAC6/8. JBI-097, one such dual molecule with LSD1/HDAC/6/8 selectivity, showed an IC50 of 0.007uM on LSD1 and an IC50 of 0.06 and 0.1uM on HDAC6 and HDAC8, respectively, with about 100-fold selectivity against other HDAC isoforms. JBI-097 showed strong antiproliferative activity on leukemia and multiple myeloma cell lines. In MM.1S cell line, JBI-097 showed stronger potency when compared to LSD1 inhibitor GSK2879552 and HDAC6 inhibitor ACY1215. In cell-based and in vivo target engagement studies there was a concomitant increase in CD11b, CD86 and GFI1b and tubulin acetylation levels. JBI-097 was more efficacious in inhibiting the growth of HEL92.1.7 xenograft by oral administration when compared to IP administration of an HDAC inhibitor. In MM.1S tumor model, JBI-097 showed stronger effect in inhibiting tumor growth when compared to LSD1 inhibitor and HDAC6 inhibitor used as single agents. Further, combination with topotecan resulted in complete tumor growth inhibition of MM.1S xenograft. The data obtained demonstrate that it is feasible to design dual LSD1-HDAC6/8 inhibitors that retain individual activity and potently inhibit cell proliferation, and such inhibitors could serve as powerful therapeutic agents for cancer. Further understanding of mechanisms to identify the right tool compound is in progress.

Citation Format: Sivanandhan Dhanalakshmi, Sridharan Rajagopal, Sreekala Nair, Chandru Gajendran, Dimpy Ghosh, Subramanyam Janardhan Tantry, Purushottam Dewang, Mahanandeesha Hallur, M Kannan, Srinatha KC, Damodara Kuntrapaku, M Dilipkumar, Radha Sharma, S Meghashree, D P. Kumar, Mohd Zainuddin, A B. Vinod, Sriram Rajagopal. Novel dual inhibitors of LSD1-HDAC6/8 for treatment of cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1382.

Culturable Endophytic Bacteria of Ginger Rhizome and their Remarkable Multi-trait Plant Growth-Promoting Features

Functional contribution of endophytic bacteria towards plant growth is highly impressive due to their species diversity and array of probiotic mechanisms. In the study, 96 endophytic bacteria isolated from rhizome of ginger (Zingiber officinale) were screened for phosphate solubilisation, 1-amino cyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity, nitrogen fixation, ammonia and IAA production. Among these, sixteen endophytes with multiple plant growth-promoting activities were identified by 16S rDNA sequencing and all of them showed growth enhancement in Vigna unguiculata var Lola which make the study remarkably significant. The result was a clear indication of consistent, reliable and broad spectrum plant probiotic features of all the selected isolates. However, strain-specific effects on soil parameters represent the unique and distinguishable role of each of the selected isolates in the chemobiology of ginger rhizome. The study provided deeper insight into microbiomics of ginger rhizome with its agricultural promises.

Enhancement of superconducting critical current density by Fe impurity substitution in NbSe2 single crystals and the vortex pinning mechanism

Magnetization measurements have been used to determine the effect of magnetic impurities (Fe) on the Larkin-Ovchinnikov (LO) 3D collective pinning model in NbSe₂ single crystals. Upon increasing the concentration of Fe impurities, the superconducting critical current density enhances appreciably compared to pure NbSe₂ reflecting the fact that the addition of magnetic impurities assists in improving the practical applicability of NbSe₂. The random pinning potential that is introduced by the Fe impurities also shows a considerable change in the interaction between the vortices and the core region, resulting in a competitive nature of single vortex, small bundle and large bundle pinning regimes in the H-T phase diagram. The intrinsic disorder in pure NbSe₂ single crystals shows δT_c flux pinning; however, the extrinsic disorder created by Fe atoms in NbSe₂ shows δl flux pinning. Furthermore, the field dependence of the pinning force on both NbSe₂ and Fe-incorporated NbSe₂ represents the existence of point pinning and the surface pinning mechanism with a broadening of the f_p curves in the Fe-incorporated single crystals.

β2 Glycoprotein 1 in Indian Patients with SLE

Forty-five patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were investigated to evaluate the role of antiphospholipid antibodies in causation of thrombosis in Indians. The antiphospholipid antibodies studied included lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL), and anti-β2-glycoprotein 1 (aβ2-GP1). Twenty-seven patients (60%) had clinical manifestations of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Nineteen patients (42.2%) had a history of thrombosis, and eight (17.7%) had a history of recurrent fetal loss. aβ2-GP1 was (IgG) was positive in 23 (51.1%), aCL in 13 (28.8%), and LAC in four (8.8%). Of 19 patients with thrombosis, 14 (73.6%) were positive for aβ2-GP1, eight (42.1%) for aCL, and none of them was positive for LAC. Of the eight patients with recurrent fetal loss, two (25%) patients were positive for β2-GP1, five (62.5%) for aCL, and one (12.5%) for LAC. Of 18 patients without any manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), seven patients (38.8%) were positive for aβ2-GP1, and three (16.6%) for aCL and LAC each. It is concluded that presence of aβ2-GP1 increases the risk of thrombosis and therefore should be looked for in all cases of SLE to consider prophylactic antithrombotic therapy in these patients.

Clinico-Hematologic Profile of Factor XIII-Deficient Patients

A retrospective analysis of clinico-hematologic parameters of 18 factor XIII-deficient patients was carried out. The hematologic tests included activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), and clot solubility. Laboratory diagnosis of FXIII deficiency was made where bleeding time, PT, APTT, and thrombin time were normal and the clot solubility test result with 5M urea was positive. Factor XIII level with family screening was performed using commercially available kits. History of prolonged bleeding from the umbilical stump was present in four (22.2%) patients. The most common site of bleeding was the skin (11 of 18 patients). Three patients were given prophylaxis (FFP in two, factor XIII in one). A high prevalence of recurrent abortion in female pa tients with FXIII deficiency (two of the three patients in this study) was observed.

Clinicohematologic Spectrum in Patientswith Lupus Anticoagulant

A retrospective analysis of clinicohematologic parameters of 25 patients with lupus anticoagulant was carried out. The hematologic tests included dilute Russel viper venom test (dRVVT), kaolin clotting time (KCT), activated partial thromboplastin time, and prothrombin time. The diagnosis of lupus anticoagulants was based on the presence of prolonged KCT/dRVVT, its absence of correction with normal plasma and correction by phospholipids. Specific factor assays and platelet aggregation studies were performed wherever required. Ten patients (40%) had thrombosis, which was venous in 5 (50%) and arterial in 4 (40%). One patient (10%) had both arterial and venous thrombosis and presented with catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome. Eighteen female patients conceived. Four (22%) of these had recurrent first trimester abortion. Five (20%) patients had bleeding manifestations. One (4%) of these had hypoprothrombinemia and was diagnosed to have hypoprothrombinemia lupus anticoagulant syndrome. However in two of these patients, no cause of bleeding could be identified other than the presence of lupus anticoagulants. It is concluded that patients with lupus anticoagulant have a varied spectrum of hemostatic disorders. Bleeding may sometimes occur in these patients due to associated thrombocytopenia or associated factor inhibitors. Rarely, it may occur due to presence of lupus anticoagulants alone.

Weakness in an Elderly Woman With Asthma and Chronic Sinusitis

Weakness and sensory changes are common complaints in both the inpatient and the outpatient setting. However, this presentation remains a diagnostic challenge to clinicians due to the many possible underlying etiologies. The initial evaluation of weakness and sensory changes starts a thorough history and physical examination to guide the diagnostic process. In this article, we present the case of an elderly woman with complaints of weakness and sensory changes to highlight a step-wise approach to diagnosis and management.

Spatio-temporal dynamics of mosquitoes in stream pools of a biosphere reserve of Southern Western Ghats, India

The spatial and temporal dynamics of mosquitoes in stream pools were examined in a biosphere reserve of the Southern Western Ghats, India. The immature mosquitoes in stream pools were collected from stream substrates of bedrock pool, boulder cavity and sand puddle. The collected larvae and pupae were reared and identified. In total, 16 species from four genera of mosquitoes were collected. The mosquito species from Culex and Anopheles were predominantly occurred. The bedrock pool had the highest diversity and abundance of mosquitoes. The statistical analyses showed that the substrate specificity and the seasons were positively related to the distribution of mosquitoes rather than spatial pattern. This study described the spatial and temporal pattern of mosquitoes in stream pools of the Southern Western Ghats. This information would be helpful to National Vector borne disease control program for surveillance and control.

Simulium (Gomphostilbia) (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Southern Western Ghats, India: two new species and DNA barcoding

Two new species of Simulium (Gomphostilbia) (Diptera: Simuliidae) are described on the basis of reared adult, pupal and larval specimens collected from Southern Western Ghats India. The morphological data of two new species S. (Gomphostilbia) panagudiense sp. n. and S. (Gomphostilbia) kottoorense sp. n. are assigned to the batoense species group in the subgenus Gomphostilbia. S. (Gomphostilbia) panagudiense sp.n. is characterized in the female by having the scutum without longitudinal vitta and arms of the genital fork wide basally and in the pupa by the stalk of ventral pair medium-long. S. (Gomphostilbia) kottoorense sp.n. is characterized by the arm of genital fork tapered near apex in the female and style in medial view 0.63 times as long as coxite in the male. Phylogeny of members in the genus Simulium was reconstructed based on DNA barcoding gene (cytochrome oxidase c subunit I). Tree analysis using new technology and maximum likelihood analyses are congruent with evidence of two new species in the subgenus Gomphostilbia and separated from other species.

Homology modeling, simulation and molecular docking studies of catechol-2, 3-Dioxygenase from Burkholderia cepacia: Involved in degradation of Petroleum hydrocarbons

Catechol 2, 3-dioxygenase is present in several types of bacteria and undergoes degradation of environmental pollutants through an important key biochemical pathways. Specifically, this enzyme cleaves aromatic rings of several environmental pollutants such as toluene, xylene, naphthalene and biphenyl derivatives. Hence, the importance of Catechol 2, 3-dioxygenase and its role in the degradation of environmental pollutants made us to predict the three-dimensional structure of Catechol 2, 3-dioxygenase from Burkholderia cepacia. The 10ns molecular dynamics simulation was carried out to check the stability of the modeled Catechol 2, 3- dioxygenase. The results show that the model was energetically stable, and it attains their equilibrium within 2000 ps of production MD run. The docking of various petroleum hydrocarbons into the Catechol 2,3-dioxygenase reveals that the benzene, O-xylene, Toluene, Fluorene, Naphthalene, Carbazol, Pyrene, Dibenzothiophene, Anthracene, Phenanthrene, Biphenyl makes strong hydrogen bond and Van der waals interaction with the active site residues of H150, L152, W198, H206, H220, H252, I254, T255, Y261, E271, L276 and F309. Free energy of binding and estimated inhibition constant of these compounds demonstrates that they are energetically stable in their binding cavity. Chrysene shows positive energy of binding in the active site atom of Fe. Except Pyrene all the substrates made close contact with Fe atom by the distance ranges from 1.67 to 2.43 Å. In addition to that, the above mentioned substrate except pyrene all other made π-π stacking interaction with H252 by the distance ranges from 3.40 to 3.90 Å. All these docking results reveal that, except Chrysene all other substrate has good free energy of binding to hold enough in the active site and makes strong VdW interaction with Catechol-2,3-dioxygenase. These results suggest that, the enzyme is capable of catalyzing the above-mentioned substrate.

Synthesis and in silico evaluation of 1N-methyl-1S-methyl-2-nitroethylene (NMSM) derivatives against Alzheimer disease: to understand their interacting mechanism with acetylcholinesterase

Anomalous action of human acetylcholinesterase (hAChE) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) was restrained by various AChE inhibitors, of which the specific and potent lead candidate Donepezil is used for treating the disease AD. Besides the specificity, the observed undesirable side effects caused by Donepezil invoked the quest for new lead molecules with the increased potency and specificity for AChE. The present study elucidates the potency of six 1N-methyl-1S-methyl-2-nitroethylene (NMSM) derivatives to form a specific interaction with the peripheral anionic site and catalytic anionic subsite residues of hAChE. The NMSMs were prepared in good yield from 1,1-di(methylsulfanyl)-2-nitroethylene and primary amine (or) amino acid esters. In silico interaction analysis reveals specific and potent interactions between hAChE and selected ligand molecules. The site-specific interactions formed between these molecules also results in a conformational change in the orientation of active site residues of hAChE, which prevents them from being accessed by beta-amyloid protein (Aβ), which is a causative agent for amyloid plaque formation and acetylcholine (ACh). In silico interaction analysis between the ligand-bounded hAChE with Aß and ACh confirms this observation. The variation in the conformation of hAChE associated with the decreased ability of Aβ and ACh to access the respective functional residues of hAChE induced by the novel NMSMs favors their selection for in vivo analysis to present themselves as new members of hAChE inhibitors.

N-(4-Chloro-phen-yl)-1-(5-{[(2-phenyl-ethen-yl)sulfon-yl]meth-yl}-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)methane-sulfonamide

In the title compound, C₁₈H₁₆ClN₃O₅S₂, the dihedral angles between the oxadiazole ring and the phenyl and chloro­benzene rings are 23.4 (2) and 45.4 (2)°, respectively. The C—S—N—C and C_ox—C—S—C (ox = oxadiazole) torsion angles are 89.3 (5) and −69.1 (3)°, respectively. A short intra­molecular C—H⋯O contact closes an S(6) ring. In the crystal, mol­ecules are linked by N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, generating C(10) chains propagating in [001]. The packing is consolidated by C—H⋯O, C—H⋯π and very weak aromatic π–π stacking inter­actions [centroid–centroid separation = 4.085 (2) Å].

3-({[(1-Phenylethyl)sulfanyl]methanethioyl}sulfanyl)propanoic acid

In the title compound, C₁₂H₁₄O₂S₃, a chain transfer agent (CTA) used in polymerization, the dihedral angle between the aromatic ring and the CS₃ grouping is 84.20 (10)°. In the crystal, carb­oxy­lic acid inversion dimers linked by pairs of O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds generate R₂²(8) loops.

Effects of dexmedetomidine added to caudal ropivacaine in paediatric lower abdominal surgeries

Purpose:

The objectives of this study were to compare the effects of caudal dexmedetomidine combined with ropivacaine to provide postoperative analgesia in children and also to establish its safety in the paediatric population.

Methods:

In a randomised, prospective, parallel group, double-blinded study, 60 children were recruited and allocated into two groups: Group RD (n=30) received 0.25% ropivacaine 1 ml/kg with dexmedetomidine 2 μg/kg, making the volume to 0.5 ml and Group R (n=30) received 0.25% ropivacaine 1 ml/kg + 0.5 ml normal saline. Induction of anaesthesia was achieved with 50% N₂O and 8% sevoflurane in oxygen in spontaneous ventilation. An appropriate-sized LMA was then inserted and a caudal block performed in all patients. Behaviour during emergence was rated with a 4-point scale, sedation with Ramsay's sedation scale, and pain assessed with face, legs, activity, cry, consolability (FLACC) pain score.

Results:

The duration of postoperative analgesia recorded a median of 5.5 hours in Group R compared with 14.5 hours in Group RD, with a P value of <0.001. Group R patients achieved a statistically significant higher FLACC score compared with Group RD patients. The difference between the means of mean sedation score, emergence behaviour score, mean emergence time was statistically highly significant (P<0.001). The peri-operative haemodynamics were stable among both the groups.

Conclusion:

Caudal dexmedetomidine (2 μg/kg) with 0.25% ropivacaine (1 ml/kg) for paediatric lower abdominal surgeries achieved significant postoperative pain relief that resulted in a better quality of sleep and a prolonged duration of arousable sedation and produced less incidence of emergence agitation following sevoflurane anaesthesia.

Structure-activity relationship studies of novel pyrazole and imidazole carboxamides as cannabinoid-1 (CB1) antagonists

The synthesis and biological evaluation of novel pyrazole and imidazole carboxamides as CB1 antagonists are described. As a part of eastern amide SAR, various chemically diverse motifs were introduced on rimonabant template. The central pyrazole core was also replaced with its conformationally constrained motif and imidazole moieties. In general, a range of modifications were well tolerated. Several molecules with low- and sub-nanomolar potencies were identified as potent CB1 receptor antagonists. The in vivo proof of principle for weight loss is demonstrated with a lead compound in DIO mice model.

Mitral stenosis and pregnancy: Current concepts in anaesthetic practice

The incidence of rheumatic mitral stenosis is grossly reduced in India. Still, among heart disease complicating pregnancy, rheumatic mitral stenosis occupies a greater segment. The unique physiological changes in pregnancy and the pathological impact of mitral stenosis over pregnancy and labour are discussed in detail. A multidisciplinary approach in the diagnosis and management reduces the mortality and morbidity during peripartum. The labour analgesia technique and the evidence-based regional and general anaesthesia techniques are discussed at length in this article.

Differential blockade to assess surgical repair by intraoperative active mobilization in knee injuries-Beyond labour analgesia

Motor-sparing selective epidural analgesia has long been practised in the field of labour analgesia. However, the utility of such techniques in other fields remain limited. We present the successful use of a similar technique of differential blockade in a case of quadriceps plasty with realignment of patella for recurrent dislocation of patella. A very low concentration of bupivacaine and fentanyl was used through continous epidural. The adequacy of repair was assessed intraoperatively by active movement of operated limb by patient himself.

6-Amino-3,4-dimethyl-4-phenyl-2H,4H-pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole-5-carbonitrile

In the title compound, C₁₅H₁₄N₄O, the pyrazole ring is aligned at 88.23 (4)° with respect to the aromatic ring and at 3.75 (4)° with respect to the pyran ring. In the crystal, N—H⋯N hydrogen bonds link adjacent mol­ecules into a linear chain motif. C—H⋯N inter­actions are also observed.

6,8-Dichloro-N-methyl-3-nitro-4-nitro-methyl-4H-chromen-2-amine

In the title compound, C(11)H(9)Cl(2)N(3)O(5), the dihydro-pyran ring adopts a near-half-chair conformation. The benzene ring makes a torsion angle of 5.02 (5)° with the dihydro-pyran ring. Adjacent mol-ecules are inter-linked through inter-molecular C-H⋯O, N-H⋯O and C-Cl⋯π [3.4743 (9) Å] inter-actions. The inter-molecular N-H⋯O hydrogen bond generates an R(2) (2)(12) motif, which is observed to contribute to the crystal packing stability. Moreover, the mol-ecular structure displays an S(6) motif formed by intra-molecular N-H⋯O hydrogen bonding.

Novel pyrazole-3-carboxamide derivatives as cannabinoid-1 (CB1) antagonists: journey from non-polar to polar amides

The synthesis and biological evaluation of novel pyrazole-3-carboxamide derivatives as CB1 antagonists are described. As a part of eastern amide SAR, various chemically diverse motifs were introduced. In general, a range of modifications were well tolerated. Several molecules with high polar surface area were also identified as potent CB1 receptor antagonists. The in vivo proof of principle for weight loss is exemplified with a lead compound from this series.

2,4,6-Trimethyl-3,5-bis[(phenylcarbono-thioyl)sulfanylmethyl]benzyl benzenecarbodithioate

In the title compound C₃₃H₃₀S₆, the three pendant methyl­ene benzodithio­ate groups lie to one side of the central benzene ring in a cis-cis-cis ‘tripod’ arrangement. The dihedral angles between the central benzene ring and the three pendant rings are 72.54 (4), 89.68 (4) and 86.74 (4)°. In the crystal structure, one of the benzene rings is disordered over two orientations in a 0.559 (13):0.441 (13) ratio.