000421   GIANNASI C, NIADA S, FARRONATO D, LOMBARDI G, MANFREDI B, FARRONATO G, BRINI A T (Biomedical Dep, Milan Univ, Milan, Italy, Email: anna.brini@unimi.it.) : Nitrogen containing bisphosphonates impair the release of bone homeostasis mediators and matrix production by human primary pre-osteoblasts. Int J Med Sci 2019, 16(1), 23-32.

Bisphosphonates (BPs) represent the first-line treatment for a wide array of bone disorders. Despite their well-known action on osteoclasts, the effects they induce on osteoblasts are still unclear. In order to shed light on this aspect we evaluated the impact of two nitrogen containing bisphosphonates, Alendronate (ALN) and Zoledronate (ZOL), on human primary pre-osteoblasts. At first, we showed an inhibitory effect on cell viability and alkaline phosphatase activity starting from µM concentrations of both drugs. In addition, an inhibitory trend on mineralized nodules deposition was observed. Then low doses of both ALN and ZOL rapidly increased the release of the pro-inflammatory mediators TNFα and IL-1β, while increased DKK-1 and Sclerostin, both inhibitors of osteoblastogenesis. Finally, ALN and 10-7 M ZOL decreased the expression of type I Collagen and Osteopontin, while both drugs slightly stimulated SPARC production. With these results, we would like to suggest a direct inhibitory action on bone-forming cells by nitrogen containing bisphosphonates.

5 illus, 2 tables, 45 ref

000467   PARK C, CHOI E O, KIM G-Y, HWANG H-J, KIM B W, YOO Y H, CHOI Y H, PARK H T (Physiology Dep, Dong-A Univ, Busan 49201, Republic of Korea, Email: phwantae@dau.ac.kr) : Protective effect of baicalein on oxidative stress-induced DNA damage and apoptosis in RT4-D6P2T Schwann cells. Int J Med Sci 2019, 16(1), 8-16.

Due to its high antioxidant activity, baicalein, a kind of flavonoid present in Radical Scutellariae, has various pharmacological effects. However, the protective effect against oxidative stress in Schwann cells, which plays an important role in peripheral neuropathy, has not yet been studied. In this study, the effects of baicalein on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced DNA damage and apoptosis in RT4-D6P2T Schwann cells were evaluated. Cell viability assay was performed using MTT assay and colony formation assay. Apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry analysis and DNA fragmentation assay. The effects on DNA damage and ATP content were analyzed by comet method and luminometer. In addition, changes in protein expression were observed by Western blotting. Our results show that baicalein significantly inhibits H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity through blocking reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. We also demonstrate that baicalein is to block H₂O₂-induced DNA damage as evidenced by inhibition of DNA tail formation and γH2AX phosphorylation. Moreover, baicalein significantly attenuated H₂O₂-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction, and restored inhibition of ATP production. The suppression of apoptosis by baicalein in H₂O₂-stimulated cells was associated with reduction of increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, activation of caspase-9 and -3, and degradation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. These results demonstrate that baicalein eliminates H₂O₂-induced apoptosis through conservation of mitochondrial function by the removal of ROS. Therefore, it is suggested that baicalein protects Schwann cells from oxidative stress, and may be beneficial for the prevention and treatment of peripheral neuropathy induced by oxidative stress.

7 illus, 39 ref

000425   HARADA D, NAKAYAMA M (Naruto Research Institute, Tokushima 772-8601, Japan, Email: Harada.Daisuke@otsuka.jp) : Influence of glucose dosage in parenteral nutrition on body thiamine levels in rats. Int J Med Sci 2019, 16(1), 1-7.

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between glucose dosage in parenteral nutrition and reductions in levels of body thiamine in rats. Vitamin-free infusions with differing amounts of glucose were administered to normal or thiamine-deficient rats for 5 days, after which urinary thiamine excretion and the amounts of thiamine in the blood, liver, brain, and skeletal muscles were measured. The total energy dosage was set at three levels (98, 140, and 196 kcal/kg), and the dose of amino acids was constant among all groups. Urinary thiamine excretions on Day 5 decreased with increasing glucose dosage in the infusions. In normal rats, the amount of thiamine in the blood and all organs decreased compared with the diet group; however, no significant differences were found among the infusion groups. In thiamine-deficient rats, on the other hand, the amount of thiamine in the liver and skeletal muscles did not differ significantly among infusion groups; however, the amount of thiamine in the brain and blood decreased with increasing glucose dosage. An organ-specific correlation was found between glucose dosage in infusions and reductions in levels of thiamine. To prevent thiamine deficiencies from affecting the central nervous system, greater caution must be exercised during high-caloric parenteral nutrition. However, a constant supply of thiamine seemed to be essential, irrespective of the amount of energy supplied via parenteral nutrition, to maintain a sufficient level of thiamine in the body.

6 tables, 28 ref

000405   BOONHOH W, KIJTAWORNRAT A, SAWANGKOON S (Physiology Dep, Chulalongkorn Univ, Bangkok 10330, Thailand, Email: sawangkoon@yahoo.com) : Comparative effects of amiodarone and dronedarone treatments on cardiac function in a rabbit model. Vet World 2019, 12(2), 345-51.

The objective of the study was to compare the effects of amiodarone (AM) and dronedarone (DR) on heart rate variability (HRV) and cardiac contractility in a rabbit model. A total of 16 male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups, treated either with AM or DR at incremental dosages of 50 mg/kg/day (AM50 and DR50) and 100 mg/kg/day (AM100 and DR100), orally administrated for 7 days. At the end of each period, electrocardiograms were recorded during consciousness and analyzed using the short-term time and frequency domains of HRV. Standard echocardiography and speckle-tracking echocardiography were studied during immobilization with xylazine and ketamine. The results showed that AM100 and DR100 significantly decreased heart rate, total power, low-frequency component, and low-to-high frequency ratio compared with baselines. Most echocardiogram parameters revealed no significant difference from baselines, except for the global circumferential plane strain rate and time to peak standard deviation of strain, which had statistical significances after treating with AM. Both AM and DR possess negative chronotropy and reduce HRV, which may be explained by their sympathetic suppression and calcium channel blocking activities. Theoretically, both antiarrhythmic drugs may also possess negative inotropy, but only AM is shown to have a negative inotropic effect and reduces cardiac dyssynchrony in this model.

2 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

000394   AL-TAMIMI H, AL-DAWOOD A, AWAISHESH S, ABDALLA T (Animal Science Dep, Jordan Univ of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan, Email: hjaltamimi@just.edu.jo) : Resveratrol mitigates hypercholesterolemia exacerbated hyperthermia in chronically heat-stressed rats. Vet World 2019, 12(2), 337-44.

Hypercholesterolemia (HC) is the major leading cause of cardiovascular disease worldwide. Such atherogenic aberration deeply impacts blood circulation. Resveratrol (R) is a polyphenol that has received attention as a hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and vascular agility advocate. Efficient blood redistribution is a key element in mammalian thermoregulation. We hypothesized that R treatment may aid in mitigating hyperthermic responses under both acute and chronic heat stress (HS) conditions in HC male rats. All rats were initially fitted with miniaturized thermologgers to measure core body temperature (Tcore). With a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, four groups were randomly allotted, in which half of the animals ingested an HC diet (C+), while the other half ingested a control (C-) diet, throughout the whole study duration of 35 days. Seven rats from each dietary treatment, however, received R (R+; 13 mg/kg BW/day), while the rest received normal saline (R-) for 5 continuous days. All animals were maintained at thermoneutrality (TN; ambient temperature; Ta =23.15 ± 0.04 °C) for a period of 30 continuous days (days 0-29). On day 29, an acute HS (HS; Ta =35.86 ± 0.37 °C; for 9 nocturnal h) was imposed. Then, from day 29, a chronic HS protocol (Ta =32.28 ± 1.00 °C) was maintained until the past day of the trial (day 34), after which blood samples were drawn for analyses of platelet (PL) count, total antioxidant activity (TAO), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), and lipid peroxidation (LP). Switching animals from TN to HS resulted in abrupt rises in Tcore. The HC diet induced a significant (p<0.01) hyperlipidemia over the control of diet-consuming rats. Interestingly, the hyperthermic response to acute HS was highly pronounced in the rats consuming the C- diet, while the C+ diet exacerbated the chronic HS-induced hyperthermia. Despite failure to improve TAO in the C+ diet, R+ treatment caused a marked (p<0.05) decline in nighttime - hyperthermia in C+ rats, likely by enhancing blood flow to extremities (for heat dissipation) as delineated by drastic downregulations of C+ related rises in PL, TC, TG, and LP (HC diet by R+ interaction; p<0.03). The hyperthermic response in C- groups was attributed to higher amount of feed intake than those consuming the C+ diet. Yet, the R+ improvement of thermoregulation in the C+ group was likely related to enhancement of vascular hemodynamics. Resveratrol intake mitigated chronic HS-evoked hyperthermia in rats. Such an approach is worthy to follow-up in other mammals and humans.

4 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

000481   SHANAWANY E E E, HASSAN S E, ABDEL-RAHMAN A A-H, ABDEL-RAHMAN E H (Parasitology and Animal Diseases Dep, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt, Email: ee.elshanawany@hotmail.com) : Toxocara vitulorum cuticle glycoproteins in the diagnosis of calves’ toxocariasis. Vet World 2019, 12(2), 288-94.

The current study was designed to isolate and characterize Toxocara vitulorum glycoprotein antigens and then to evaluate its potency in accurate diagnosis of toxocariasis. T. vitulorum glycoprotein fractions were isolated using Con-A affinity chromatography. The fractions characterized using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and immunoblot assay. Mass spectrometric analysis was used for identification of proposed structure of the N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) fraction. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess the diagnostic potential of the isolated fractions. Surface of T. vitulorum adult worm revealed two glycoprotein fractions rich in glucose (Glc) and GlcNAc. Three bands of molecular weight 212kDa, 107 kDa, and 93 kDa were detected in Glc fraction by SDS-PAGE. These bands were also detected in GlcNAc fraction with an additional band of 49 kDa. GlcNAc fraction showed more diagnostic potency of calves’ toxocariasis; 79 % than Glc fraction; 46.9 % by indirect ELISA. The additional band of 49 kDa in GlcNAc fraction is probably responsible for its higher diagnostic potentials. Western blotting verified the immunoreactivity of the Glc and GlcNAc isolated fraction as they reacted with calves sera infected with toxocariasis. The proposed structure of GlcNAc fraction was Ser-Meth-Arg-O-methylated GlcNAc. GlcNAc-rich fraction of T. vitulorum can be successfully utilized in the diagnosis of calves’ toxocariasis.

4 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

000502   YENGKHOM O, SHALINI K S, SUBRAMANI P A, MICHAEL R D (Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: dean.sls@velsuniv.ac.in) : Stimulation of non-specific immunity, gene expression, and disease resistance in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758), by the methanolic extract of the marine macroalga, Caulerpa scalpelliformis. Vet World 2019, 12(2), 271-6.

The objective of the present study was to test the immunostimulating potential of marine macroalga, Caulerpa scalpelliformis, in terms of non-specific immune responses, gene expression, and disease resistance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758). O. niloticus was injected intraperitoneally with three different doses of methanol extract of C. scalpelliformis (CSME) (2 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, or 200 mg/kg body weight), or MacroGardTM (commercial immunostimulant, positive control, and 20 mg/kg body weight), or distilled water (untreated control). In one set of fish, 5 days post-injection, serum lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, and antiprotease activities were assayed. 24 h after injection, gene expression was analyzed in a separate set of fish. To another set of fish, 1 week post-administration of the products, fish were challenged with lethal dose 50 (LD₅₀) dose of a live virulent pathogen, Aeromonas hydrophila and subsequent resistance to it was noted in terms of cumulative percent mortality. CSME increased serum lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, and antiprotease activities. There was an increase in the expression of lysozyme gene in the spleen of treated fish. Mid dose of CSME caused the minimum mortality of 10 % (consequent relative percentage survival = 73) which is comparable to that of the positive control. CSME is considered to have the potential to be developed into an immunostimulant for finfish aquaculture.

3 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

000460   MONDAL S, PRADHAN S, MUKHOPADHAYAY S K (Veterinary Pathology Dep, West Bengal Univ of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, Email: vetsamiran@gmail.com) : Alteration in behavior of rat after chronic exposure to acetamiprid. Vet World 2019, 12(2), 254-7.

Acetamiprid is a chemical of neonicotinoid group which binds with nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) and alters the brain function. The present study was taken up to enlight the understanding of nociception behavior in Sprague Dawley (SD) rat after multiple exposures to acetamiprid. For experiment purpose, a total of 48 SD rats were divided into four dose groups having 12 animals each. Group I was control group received only distilled water. Group II, Group III, and Group IV were treated with acetamiprid at a dose rate of 5, 20, and 40 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Rats were tested in induced pain by formalin injection and tail flick test. The flinch counts in formalin-induced pain in acetamiprid-treated rat were reduced in a dose-dependent manner, whereas, in tail flick test, no such altered pain behavior was observed in treated group compared to control animals. Acetamiprid alters the centralized nociception through nAChR but could not trigger the associated signal to inhibit the nociception peripherally.

2 illus, 19 ref

026538   RAUT C P, SETHI K S, KOHALE B R, MAMAJIWALA A, WARANG A (Periodontology Dep, MGV KBH Dental Coll and Hospital, Wardha - 442 001, Email: craut96@gmail.com) : Indocyanine green-mediated photothermal therapy in treatment of chronic periodontitis: A clinico-microbiological study. J Indian Soc Periodontol 2018, 22(3), 221-7.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has developed as an alternative treatment modality in periodontitis patients. Different photosensitizers used over the years have shown contradictory results. Thus, recently indocyanine green (ICG)‑mediated photothermal therapy has emerged for the treatment of chronic periodontitis. The present study aimed at comparing and evaluating the effects of photothermal therapy using ICG in the treatment of chronic periodontitis with scaling and root planing (SRP). This was a randomized, controlled, clinical trial where fifty participants were equally divided into two groups, i.e., control group (SRP) and test group (SRP + photothermal therapy). Clinical parameters were evaluated at baseline and 6‑month follow‑up. These were plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Microbiological analysis of plaque sample was also done to check for anaerobic mixed flora. Significant reduction was seen in PD, CAL, and BOP in the test group as compared to control group after 6 months (P < 0.05). However, intergroup comparison of PI showed nonsignificant results (P > 0.05). Anaerobic culture of plaque samples of test group also revealed a significant reduction of microorganisms in comparison with control group. ICG‑mediated photothermal therapy can act as an alternative to antimicrobial PDT as an adjunct to SRP in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

3 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

026537   SUPRITH S S, SETTY S, BHAT K, THAKUR S (Periodontics Dep, The Oxford Dental Coll and Hospital, Bengaluru- 560 068, Email: suprith90@gmail.com) : Serotypes of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in relation to periodontal status and assessment of leukotoxin in periodontal disease: A clinico-microbiological study. J Indian Soc Periodontol 2018, 22(3), 201-8.

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A.a) serotypes may add some important information of the pathogenetic background of periodontal infections. A.a leukotoxin is an important virulence factor in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease and its rate of progression. When compared to minimally leukotoxic strains, variants of A.a highly leukotoxic strains produce 10–20 times more leukotoxin. The aim of the present study was to detect serotypes a, b, c, d, and e of A.a its leukotoxin and find its correlation with periodontal status. Microbiological analysis and cross‑sectional study. A total of 80 subjects (40 chronic periodontitis and 40 aggressive periodontitis) in the age range of 14–55 years were selected. Subgingival plaque samples were collected and checked for the presence of A.a. Following isolation of the organism, detection of the serotypes and leukotoxin assessment was done. The proportions of A.a were calculated using descriptive statistics in terms of percentage. Chi‑square test was used to find association between serotype, leukotoxin, and periodontal disease in individual group. Out of 80 plaque samples, 45 % tested positive for A.a. serotype b was detected in 33.33 %, whereas serotype e in 8.33 % samples and serotype c in 2.77 % samples. Serotypes a and d were not detected in any of the samples. A combination of serotypes was seen in 47.22 % of the sites. Of these 76.47 % showed a combination of 2 serotypes, while 23.52 % showed a combination of 3 serotypes. 8.33 % showed untypable serotype. All samples had low‑toxic variants of A.a. Serotype b and serotype e were predominant in chronic periodontitis, and serotype b was predominant in aggressive periodontitis. An association could be present between serotype and periodontal disease.

5 illus, 3 tables, 55 ref

026536   KOHLI D, HUGAR S M, BHAT K G, SHAH P P, MUNDADA M V, BADAKAR C M (Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Dep, KLE Univ, Belagavi- 590 010, Email: divyatakohli14@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of the antimicrobial susceptibility and cytotoxicity of husk extract of Cocos nucifera and chlorhexidine as irrigating solutions against Enterococcus faecalis, Prevotella intermedia and Porphyromonas gingivalis- An in-vitro study. J Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent 2018, 36(2), 142-50.

The aim of the present study is to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial susceptibility and cytotoxicity of Cocos nucifera and chlorhexidine (CHX) as irrigating solutions against Enterococcus faecalis, Prevotella intermedia, and Porphyromonas gingivalis. The ethanolic extract of husk of C.nucifera was prepared. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extract were determined using the serial broth dilution method and its cytotoxicity was evaluated against human periodontal fibroblasts using 3‑(4,5‑dimethyl‑thiazole‑2‑yl)‑2,5‑diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. Antibacterial susceptibility for two irrigating solutions, namely 2 % CHX gluconate irrigant (Group I) and 1.5 % C. nucifera husk irrigant (GroupII), was tested against P.gingivalis, P. intermedia, and E. faecalis. The MIC and MBC of C. nucifera husk extract for P. gingivalis were 468.75 μg/ml and 1562.5 μg/ml, for P. intermedia were 48.8 μg/ml and 1875 μg/ml, and for E. faecalis were 1562.5 μg/ml and 3750 μg/ml, respectively. The extract was nontoxic to the human periodontal fibroblast. Both the materials have shown similar antibacterial susceptibility and no difference was observed at baseline, 10, 30, and 60 min using two‑way repeated measures of ANOVA. However, a statistically significant difference was observed between different time points for P. gingivalis and P. intermedia using Bonferroni multiple comparison test (f = 826.1390, P ≤ 0.05). 1.5 % of ethanolic husk extract of C. nucifera has a significant antibacterial action against polymicrobial dental biofilm and its activity is comparable to that of 2 % CHX which validates its use as a future irrigating solution for overcoming bacterial resistance with synthetic agents.

7 illus, 5 tables, 21 ref

026535   SHETTY V, ASWATH N P, HEGDE A M (Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Dep, A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Mangalore- 575 018, Email: docvabitha29@gmail.com) : Effect of crude apple extract on the cariogenic factors of Streptococcus mutans. J Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent 2018, 36(2), 135-41.

The aim was to assess the effects of crude extract of whole apple on the cariogenic properties of Streptococcus mutans by evaluating (1) its growth, (2) its adherence property, and (3) changes caused by acid produced by S. mutans in the presence of sucrose (in vitro). Kashmiri Apples (sourced from the local market) were used for the study. Whole apple extracts including the skin were used to obtain undiluted crude apple extract. The growth of S. mutans in the presence of the crude apple extract was evaluated by agar diffusion test as well as direct contact inhibition test. The effects of the crude extract on the adherence of S. mutans was assessed by modified O’Toole method in which the viable cell counts of S. mutans which remained adherent on the microtitre plate were calculated. The effects of the test materials on pH changes caused by S. mutans in the presence of sucrose were assessed using pH meter. Crude extract of the whole apple showed no significant inhibitory effect on the growth of S. mutans while a significant inhibitory activity on the adherence of S. mutans was observed. Furthermore, the significant inhibitory effect on the pH drop was recorded, although pH remained below the critical value of 5.5 at all times. Crude whole apple extract has considerable anti‑cariogenic effect on S. mutans and hence can be used as a natural alternative which can aid in the prevention of dental caries.

6 tables, 33 ref

026534   ARORA S, PAL M, BORDOLOI M, NANDI S P (Amity Univ, Noida- 201 313, Email: spaul@amity.edu) : Effect of hexane extract of Syzygium aromaticum on haematological profile of rats. J Environ Biol 2018, 39(3), 347-52.

To analyse the effect of hexane extract of Syzygium aromaticum on haematological profile of rats. Previously, hexane extract of S. aromaticum buds at a high dose of 5000 mg kg^-1 was given to one rat and the corresponding control received saline water as vehicle. It was repeated and no mortality was observed. Based on the result, 2000 mg kg^-1 was selected for the main study. The rats were prorated into two groups (control and treated). Each group consisted of six rats. After administration of hexane extract, blood was collected from three rats per group at an interval of 1 hr (retero-orbital plexus); 24 hrs and 14 day (cardiac puncture) in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid coated vials and signs of toxicity and mortality were observed in animals. Haematological parameters were estimated from collected blood samples using automatic haematological analyser (Model Melet Schloesing MS4). The hexane extract of S. aromaticum at a dose of 2000 mg kg-1 b. wt. to male rats did not produce any change in haematological profile for 1 hr exposure. The changes were observed in monocytes and white blood cells after 24 hrs. Significant (P < 0.05) changes were observed in red blood cells, haemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, plateletcrit and platelet distribution widths after 14 days of treatment. The treated rats neither exhibited any signs of toxicity nor death during 14 days of study. The results revealed that a single dose of 2000 mg kg^-1 of Syzygium aromaticum did not induce any impact on haematological profile of rats till 14 day after administration of hexane extract.

2 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

026533   SHU Z, SHAHEN M, HEGAZI M A M, AL-SHARKAW I M, SEIF A I (Northwest A & F Univ, Shaanxi- 712 100, China, Email: Mshahen@science.tanta.edu.eg) : Physiological response of Culex pipiens larvae to sublethal concentrations of sodium and calcium hypochlorite. J Environ Biol 2018, 39(3), 314-23.

The present study investigated the physiological responses and histopathological changes of Culex pipiens larvae exposed to sublethal concentrations of sodium and calcium hypochlorite. The concentration of total protein, lipids and carbohydrates as well as activity of acetylcholinesterase were determined in larvae using colorimetric methods. The interaction between hypochlorite and fourth instars larvae of C. pipiens was followed through histological sections. The contents of total protein and total carbohydrates of all larval instars increased following treatment with sublethal concentrations of both hypochlorite compounds. However, treatment of larvae with 1/10 LC₅₀ induced significant reduction in the total carbohydrate content. In addition, treatment of larvae with sublethal concentrations of both hypochlorite compounds induced significant reduction in the total lipid content. Furthermore, the acetylcholinesterase activity significantly decreased in treated first and second larval instars, while increased in treated third and fourth larval instars. In larvae treated with sublethal concentrations of calcium and sodium hypochlorite, the mid gut cells appeared thinner and flattened, with disappearance of the peritrophic matrix and reduced fat body. The present study suggested that hypochlorite compounds had a pronounced effect on larval metabolic pathways.

2 illus, 4 tables, 64 ref

026532   SUBBANNA A R N S, KHAN M S, SRIVASTAVA R M, MISHRA P K, BABU B K, VENKATESWARLU V (Entomology Dep, Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar- 263 145, Email: subbanna.ento@gmail.com) : Interspecies diversity of Bacillus thuringiensis isolates native from North Western Indian Himalayas. J Environ Biol 2018, 39(3), 306-13.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a ubiquitous pathogenic bacterium exploited worldwide in successful insect pest management programs. The present study aimed at resolving the diversity status and genetic structure of Bt isolates collected from unique and native ecological niche, north-western Indian Himalayas. Forty five Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolates native to Uttarakhand, India were analyzed for their genetic diversity using Arbitrary Primed-Polymerase Chain Reaction (AP-PCR) patterns (ERIC1, ERIC2, BOX and GTG) and gyrase B (gyrB) sequences. Amongst the AP-PCR patterns, ERIC and BOX primers clearly indicated the genetic inconsistency of Bt by differentiating low and high hill isolates with unique banding pattern. A dendrogram generated showed fastidious clustering with coexistence of attitudinally related strains, indicating the genetic relatedness with respect to geographical proximity. The gyrB (285 bp) dependent phylogeny of seven selected isolates revealed their genetic proximity with different serovars. The present study demonstrates that ERIC and BOX-PCR can be used in establishment of geographical variation and gryB in phylogenetic relatedness with serovars. Genetic relatedness between Bt isolates was found to be a function of geographical proximity.

3 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

026531   CHAE H, JO B Y, KIM H S (Kyungpook National Univ, Daegu- 415 66, Korea, Email: kimhsu@knu.ac.kr) : Taxonomy and effect of temperature, nutrients and light intensity on the growth of two freshwater algal species of Raphidophyceae new to Korea. J Environ Biol 2018, 39(3), 291-7.

The present study was conducted to understand the taxonomy and effect of environmental factors on the growth of two freshwater algal Raphidophyceae (Gonyostomum depressum and G. semen) that are new to Korea. Samples used in the culture experiments were isolated from two small ponds in Jeju Island and Kyungpook province of Korea. Species identification was based on morphology and nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences of rDNA. The growth characteristics of these species through the effect of temperature, nitrate concentration and light intensity were investigated. These two species have different cell shape, size and caudus morphology. The nuclear ITS rDNA sequences of specimens had 99 % identity with G. depressum and G. semen recorded at GenBank. Gonyostomum depressum had the highest growth rate at 21$°$C, nitrate concentration of 1,000 μM, and light intensity of 120 μmol photons m^-2 s^-1. G. semen showed the highest growth rate at 21 $°$C, 120 μmol photons m^-2 s^-1 and nitrate concentration of 100 μM, respectively. Water temperature seems to be important in controlling the distribution and growth of G. depressum and G. semen.

5 illus, 29 ref

026530   SAFIYA H, ABDURRAZAK M, HASSAN M A-K (Bayero Univ, Kano, Nigeria) : Hepatoprotective effect of the aqueous leaf extract of Balanite aegyptiaca on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in albino rats. J Med Plants Stud 2018, 6(3), 19-23.

The aqueous leaf extract of Balanite aegyptica (BA) was evaluated for its hepatoprotective effect on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic damage in albino rats using liver enzymes activities. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, glycosides and sterols. Evaluation of the serum marker enzymes indicated significant increase in the serum activity of the marker enzymes - AST, ALT, ALP in rats administered with the hepatotoxin when compared to the treatment groups (P < 0.05). There was a substantial decline in the levels of these enzymes and bilirubin after treatment with BA extract thus indicating its hepatoprotective activity. Silymarin (standard drug) exhibited significant hepatoprotective effect in the study animals. These findings suggest that BA extract possess hepatoprotective activity judging by the reduced levels of the serum markers even more than silymarin. Thus, the enhanced hepatoprotective activity of BA extract might be attributed to the synergistic effect of the phytochemicals present in the plant.

3 tables, 48 ref

026529   SINGH B, NARANG R S, KAUR K, SHEIKH S, NARANG J K (Oral Medicine and Radiology Dep, SGRD Institute of Dental Sciences and Research, Amritsar, Punjab, Email: dentalmanuscript@gmail.com) : Evaluation of omega 3 fatty acids in management of trigeminal neuralgia. J Indian Acad Oral Med Radiol 2018, 30(2), 137-41.

Trigeminal neuralgic (TN) pain has been known as the world’s worst pain. Omega‑3 fatty acids have been recently studied extensively in neuralgic pain. Carbamazepine has been known to be the first drug of choice in treating TN pain. In the presentstudy, the potential benefits of omega‑3 fatty acids in addition to the carbamazepine were assessed. The objective of the study was to evaluate the role of omega‑3 fatty acids in the neuralgic pain along with carbamazepine in treating neuralgic pain. The present study was undertaken on 114 patients with TN pain. The patients were divided in two groups. The group I consisted of patients who were on carbamazepine only, and group II comprised patients who were on carbamazepine and omega‑3 fatty acids. The pain was assessed using Brief Pain Inventory questionnaire, which is the most widely used questionnaire for chronic pain. The patients were evaluated on the day of reporting and on subsequent follow‑up at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 15 weeks interval. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis to assess the additional benefits of omega‑3 fatty acids in TN pain. The results obtained showed that the intensity of pain reduction and life quality was better in patients receiving carbamazepine and omega‑3 fatty acids by the end of the 15th week compared to the patients receiving carbamazepine alone. The present study demonstrates the reduction in neuropathic pain on long‑term usage of omega‑3 fatty acids, signifying that omega‑3 fatty acids may offer better relief in neuralgic pain.

1 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

026528   RAJBONGSHI N, BORA K, NATH D C, DAS A K, MAHANTA L B (Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati- 781 035, Email: lipimahanta@yahoo.co.in) : Analysis of morphological features of benign and malignant breast cell extracted from FNAC microscopic image using the Pearsonian system of curves. J Cytol 2018, 35(2), 99-104.

Cytological changes in terms of shape and size of nuclei are some of the common morphometric features to study breast cancer, which can be observed by careful screening of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) images. This study attempts to categorize a collection of FNAC microscopic images into benign and malignant classes based on family of probability distribution using some morphometric features of cell nuclei. For this study, features namely area, perimeter, eccentricity, compactness, and circularity of cell nuclei were extracted from FNAC images of both benign and malignant samples using an image processing technique. All experiments were performed on a generated FNAC image database containing 564 malignant (cancerous) and 693 benign (noncancerous) cell level images. The five‑set extracted features were reduced to three‑set (area, perimeter, and circularity) based on the mean statistic. Finally, the data were fitted to the generalized Pearsonian system of frequency curve, so that the resulting distribution can be used as a statistical model. Pearsonian system is a family of distributions where kappa (ҝ) is the selection criteria computed as functions of the first four central moments. For the benign group, kappa (ҝ) corresponding to area, perimeter, and circularity was −0.00004, 0.0000, and 0.04155 and for malignant group it was 1016942, 0.01464, and −0.3213, respectively. Thus, the family of distribution related to these features for the benign and malignant group were different, and therefore, characterization of their probability curve will also be different.

3 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

026527   SHEKOKAR D, GEDAM D, KILIKDAR M, AMBHORE N A, KARYAKARTE R, PISEY A (Microbiology Dep, Government Medical Coll, Akola, Maharashtra, Email: gedam_dilip74@rediffmail.com) : Bacteriology of wound infections and the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern among the isolates. J Cont Med A Dent 2018, 6(2), 37-40.

To study the causative agents of wound infections and to report the susceptibility pattern of drugs among the isolates. A cross- sectional study was conducted in the department of microbiology at a tertiary care hospital at Government Medical College, Akola over a period of one year from January 2016 to December 2016. A total of 324 wound samples were collected and further processed according to the standard Microbiology guidelines. Of the 324 samples, 201 were culture positive and rest (123) were culture negative Out of 201 culture positive isolates, 103 were Gram positive and 98 were Gram negative. In Gram positive isolates, Staphylococcus aureus was predominant (91.26 %) followed by Enterococcus species (6.7 %) and Streptococcus species (1.9 %). Vancomycin was found to be the most effective drug against Gram positive organisms. In Gram negative, Escherichia coli (34.69 %) was predominant followed by Klebsiella (28.57 %) and Pseudomonas species (15.30 %). Imipenem was found to be the most effective drug against Gram negative organisms. The study showed increasing antibiotic resistance in Gram-positive and Gramnegative isolates which leads to the failure of treatment. Thus, this study will be of great help for the clinicians for prescribing the suitable antibiotics depending on the susceptibility pattern and thus, improves outcome.

4 tables, 27 ref

026526   GEDAM D S, PISEY A S, SAYARE P C, AMBHORE N A, KARYAKARTE R P, SHEKOKAR D (Microbiology Dep, Govt Medical Coll, Akola, Maharashtra, Email: ashwinipisey@gmail.com) : Evaluation of bacterial contamination of old and new Indian paper currency notes. J Cont Med A Dent 2018, 6(2), 23-7.

Currency is widely exchanged for goods and services. It gets contaminated during handling. Contaminated currencies might act as fomites, playing an important role in the transmission of microorganisms. Since no level of contamination can be regarded as safe, this study was focused on bacterial contaminants of paper currency of India. The present study was conducted to isolate and identify microorganisms contaminating old and new currency notes. This study was conducted in Department of Microbiology, GMC Akola from 10th November 2016 to 25th December 2016. A total of 400 Indian currency notes were screened for bacteriological contamination. Dividing the notes into two groups new and old, contamination was noted accordingly. Of total 400 screened currency notes, 200 were new and 200 were old. 91.5 % of old notes whereas 28 % of new notes were found to be contaminated. A total 448 isolates were identified. Of the all isolates of old notes, majority (22.95 %) were Coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp (CONS). While in new currency Micrococcus (64.29 %) was found predominant. Money which is responsible for solving health problems can turn out to be as a cause of creating health problem. Therefore, public education on proper handling also cashless or electronic money transaction should be initiated to avoid such public hazards.

6 tables, 16 ref

026525   ALMUTAIRI H A Z, AL-TAMIMI N A I, ALANIZY A F S, ALRASHEDY A F, ALHOBERA A H, ALMASOUD M M, AHMED M Q, AHMED S, NASSER T, SHAHID S M A et.al (Biochemistry Dep, Hail Univ, Hail, Saudi Arabia, Email: 2007.sma@gmail.com) : Protective role of olive oil and polyherbal drug on renal dysfunction induced by dexamethasone in albino rats. J Cont Med A Dent 2018, 6(2), 17-22.

This study was plan to evaluate the biochemical effects of olive oil and polyherbal drug against dexamethasone-induced renal dysfunction in a male albino rat. Male rats (20) were divided into four equal groups: Group 1: rats were injected subcutaneously with normal saline and consider as normal control. Group 2: rats were injected subcutaneously with dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg body weight). Group 3: rats were injected dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg body weight) subcutaneously, and then treated with olive oil (200 mg/kg body weight) by oral gavage. Group 4: rats were injected subcutaneously with dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg body weight), and then treated with the polyherbal drug in a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight by oral gavage. After 3 weeks, serum Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) activities,blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were estimated. Administration of dexamethasone caused elevation of serum levels of Creatinine, BUN,, ALT, AST, Glucose, Hb1Ac and Albumin activities. Treatment with Olive oil and polyherbal drug showed a significant increase in the body weight of rats in the group treated with olive seed extract orally compared with the dexamethasone control group. Olive oil and polyherbal drug positively affect dexamethasone-induced renal alteration in albino rats.

3 tables, 25 ref

026523   TILAKCHAND M, SINGH N N, YELI M M, NAIK B D (Conservative and Endodontics Dep, SDM Coll of Dental Sciences, Dharwad- 580 009, Email: mahima702002@yahoo.co.in) : Evaluation of the antibacterial efficacy of EZLASE diode LASER on the infected root canal system. J Conserv Dent 2018, 21(3), 306-10.

The aim of this in vivo study was to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of a diode LASER on the infected root canal system. Methodology: A total of forty patients with infected root canals were selected. The root canals were prepared mechanically, and irrigation was done with 3 % sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Microbiological samples were collected before LASER treatment with the help of the master apical file (MAF) to full working length for subsequent microbiological examination. The procedure was followed by laser treatment with an EZLASE diode LASER (940 nm), at different output powers. Following irradiation, samples were collected for microbiological examination. The samples were transferred to an agar plate and incubated for 48 h at 37 °C. The colonies formed were then counted, and the total number of bacteria per ml before and after LASER application was assessed. Colony‑forming unit (CFU/ml) was counted for Enterococcus faecalis and other bacterial flora from pretreatment and posttreatment samples that were then analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U‑test. The highest power of laser used (1.95 W) had resulted in maximum reduction of bacterial flora and E. faecalis counts. Combination therapy consisting of irrigation using NaOCl and LASER irradiation, especially at high output power was an effective treatment option for a reduction in E. faecalis as well as other bacterial flora from the root canal system.

1 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

026522   SECK A, BANE K, DIOP A, NDIAYE D, NIANG S O, TOURÉ B (Dentistry Dep, Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar Univ, Dakar-Fann, Senegal, Email: antasss@hotmail.com) : Evaluation of the mono instrument (Wave One) mechanical action on the bacterial load reduction: In vitro study of 32 permanent human teeth. J Conserv Dent 2018, 21(3), 280-4.

Enterococcus faecalis is the most common bacteria found in infected root canals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the mono instrument (wave‑one^®) on the reduction of E. faecalis in root canals. Thirty‑two human monoroot teeth were used. After sterilization by autoclave, the teeth were infected by E. faecalis and incubated for 24 h. Each tooth underwent sampling before and after the root canal shaping. After serial dilution, samples were incubated, and colony‑forming units were counted. The mono instrument technique reduced infection by E. faecalis in root canals of 30 teeth. The mean bacterial load (log₁₀) was 3.98 before treatment and 1.20 after treatment. The paired t‑test showed a significant mean difference (log₁₀) of the bacterial load before and after treatment (P < 0.0001). This study found that the mono instrument (Wave One^®) significantly decreases bacterial load in root canals. However, the instrument alone is not enough to eradicate infections; thus, the use of a complementary antimicrobial is required.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

026520   SUDEEPA K, NARSIMHA N, APARNA B, SREEKANTH S, APARNA A V, RAVI M, MOHMED J, DEVI C S (Chemistry Dep, Osmania Univ, Telangana- 500 007, Email: dr_saraladevich@yahoo.com) : Synthesis, spectral characterization, antimicrobial, DNA interactions and molecular modeling studies of metal complexes of 1, 3-benzothiazole carbohydrazone. J Chem Sci 2018, 130(5), 52.

The compound N -[(Z)-furan-2-ylmethylidene]-1,3-benzothiazole-2-carbohydrazone (FMBC) and its Cu (II), Ni (II) and Zn (II) complexes were synthesized and characterized by Mass, FT-IR, NMR, elemental analysis, TGA, ESR and SEM-EDX. Based on spectro-analytical data, geometries have been assigned to the metal complexes in which the FMBC acted as bidentate chelate in its mono dissociated form (pKa = 10.56). HyperChem 7.5 software was used for quantum chemical calculations using semi-empirical method. The eigenvalues of frontier orbitals and their corresponding contour maps of HOMO and LUMO for the title compound were computed by means of single point PM3 method. DNA binding of the synthesized complexes with calf thymus DNA was studied by spectrophotometry, fluorescence and viscosity techniques. From the experimental results, it is found that the complexes bind effectively to CT-DNA through an intercalative mode. Molecular docking studies with host DNA moiety inferred corroborative results for binding affinity of the compounds in accordance with experimental data. IC₅₀ values calculated from the cytotoxicity studies carried out on HeLa cell line by MTT assay inferred obviously enhanced activity of the metal complexes over unbound free ligand. The candidate compounds screened for antimicrobial activity against bacterial species Bacillus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas and fungal species Sclerotium rolfsii and Macrophomina phaseolina signified greater potency of metal complexes over free carbohydrazone ligand.

14 illus, 3 tables, 41 ref

026513   BAKIR M, GEYIKOGLU F, KOC K, CERIG S (Biology Dep, Ataturk Univ, Erzurum, Turkey, Email: kubrakc@ hotmail.com) : Therapeutic effects of oleuropein on cisplatin-induced pancreas injury in rats. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 671-8.

Cisplatin (CIS) is an influential chemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of several types of malignant solid tumors, but its clinical use is related with ototoxicity. Oleuropein (OLE) is a natural antioxidant and scavenging free radicals. Here, we first explore the efficacy of OLE in pancreas against to the toxicity of CIS and also analyses its mechanism. Fifty‑six Sprague‑Dawley rats were equally divided into eight groups, including, control group which received 7 mg/kg/day CIS intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 24 h, groups treated with doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg OLE i.p. for 3 days, and groups which received same dose of CIS with three doses of OLE. After the treatments, animals were sacrificed. The oxidative DNA damage (8‑hydroxy‑2’‑deoxyguanosine [8‑OHdG]), total oxidative stress (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated in the pancreas. The histopathology of the pancreas was examined using three different staining methods: hematoxylin‑eosin, periodic acid–Schiff, and alcian blue. Serum was provided to assess pancreatic function the lipase and amylase values. The results showed that CIS significantly increased the level of TOS, MDA, and 8‑OHdG in tissue as compared to the control group. Moreover, severe tissue damages were detected in the pancreas. Whereas, OLE at high dose significantly decreased the formations of 8‑OHdG, the level of MDA, and increased levels of TAS in tissue samples. In the CIS group, the levels of amylase and lipase increased compared with the control group. However, there were statistically significant differences among the CIS group and the CIS + OLE groups in the values of both amylase and lipase. In addition, histopathological findings observed in CIS group in the pancreatic tissue alleviated in CIS + OLE groups. We hope that the results of this study will provide an impetus for future investigations of novel treatment strategies for OLE in pancreas due to CIS.

4 illus, 4 tables, 50 ref

026512   PANDYA J A, BOAZ K, NATARAJAN S, MANAKTALA N, NANDITA K P, LEWIS A J (Oral Pathology and Microbiology Dep, Manipal Univ, Mangalore- 575 001, Email: karen.boaz@ manipal.edu) : A correlation of immunohistochemical expression of TP53 and CDKN1A in oral epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 666-70.

Oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) occurs on exposure of epithelial cells to carcinogens and genetic alteration. Once the reversible cell damage is surpassed, cells either undergo apoptosis or transform into malignancy, chiefly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Progressive accumulation of genetic errors (including mutations in TP53 and CDKN1A) is associated with the initiation and progression of potentially malignant oral lesions toward frank malignancy. The present study attempted to correlate the immunohistochemical expression of CDKN1A and TP53 with increasing severity of OED along with increased aggressiveness of OSCC as reflected in the clinicopathologic variables. Tissue sections from forty biopsy‑proven cases of OED and OSCC were stained with anti‑TP53 and anti‑CDKN1A mouse monoclonal antibodies. One hundred cells in each case were counted under high power magnification. Poorly differentiated OSCC showed the highest TP53 expression (mean = 70.285), with least expression seen in mild dysplasia (mean = 22.125) (P < 0.001). Higher TP53 count was seen in cases with margin involvement, without recurrence and lymph node involvement and in cases which died of disease. CDKN1A expression was seen only in five cases and that too focally in the cytoplasm, thereby warranting removal of analysis of CDKN1A positivity from the study. The expression of TP53 in OED highlights its role in initial carcinogenesis. Although the role of CDKN1A in the cell cycle has been documented, its relationship to various clinical and pathological variables of OSCC and its different treatment modalities could not be adequately assessed.

6 illus, 22 ref

026511   KOC K, OZDEMIR O, OZDEMIR A, DOGRU U, TURKEZ H (Biology Dep, Ataturk Univ, Erzurum, Turkey, Email: kubrakc@ hotmail.com) : Antioxidant and anticancer activities of extract of Inula helenium (L.) in human U-87 MG glioblastoma cell line. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 658-61.

The aim of this study is to explore the antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of aqueous extract from aerial parts of Inula helenium (L.) against human U‑87 MG glioma cell line. The 3’‑(4,5‑dimethylthiazol‑2‑yl)‑2,5‑diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and lactate dehydrogenase assays were used to study antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities against U‑87 MG cell after 48 h exposure. In addition, to assess the oxidative effects, total antioxidant capacity and total oxidant status levels were also measured. Finally, the aqueous extracts displayed antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities at high concentrations tested, particularly at 200 µg/ml, without causing to oxidative stress. The results strengthen the evidence that I. helenium could be considered a natural resource of potential antitumor agents for brain cancer. In addition, this study is expected to expand the existing information on the anticancer activity of I. helenium and to assist in a more focused design of further research as chemotherapeutic agents.

4 illus, 33 ref

026508   CAO H, HUANG S, LIU A, CHEN Z (General Surgery Dep, Affiliated Xiangyang Central Hospital of Hubei Univ of Arts and Scienc, Hubei Province, P.R. China, Email: chenzhidan0855 @163.com) : Up-regulated expression of miR-155 in human colonic cancer. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 604-7.

The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of miR‑155 in colonic cancer tissue and to assess the potential predictive value of miR‑155 in colonic cancer patients. From March to September of 2011, we included 57 patients with primary colonic cancer who underwent curative surgical resection. Total RNAs were extracted from colonic cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues. Then the expression of miR‑155 in colonic cancer and paracancerous tissues was investigated using real time quantitative reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction. And the relationship between miR‑155 expression level and the clinical, pathological parameters of colonic cancer was analyzed. The relative expression level of miR‑155 in colonic cancer tissues was significantly higher than that in paracancerous tissues and related to tumor‑node‑metastasis staging, tumor invasion, metastasis, and differentiation. The expression of miR‑155 is up‑regulated in colonic cancer tissues. MiR‑155 may acts as proto‑oncogenes involved in carcinogenesis, development, and invasion of colon cancer making it a potential target for gene therapy of colon cancer.

1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

026507   AHMED H G, SULIMAN R S A, ASHANKYTY I M, ALBIEH Z A, WARILLE A A (Pathology Dep, Hail Univ, Hail 2440, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Email: hussaingad1972 @yahoo.com) : Role of human cytomegalovirus in the etiology of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 583-6.

The purpose of this study was to identify human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in tissue blocks obtained from patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Formalin-fixed paraffin wax processed NPC tissue were obtained from 150 tissue blocks and retrospectively investigated for the presence of HCMV using polymerase chain reaction. Of the 150 NPC tissue specimens, HCMV was identified in 53/150 (35.3 %) of the samples. Out of the 53 samples infected with HCMV, 33/97 (34 %) were among males and 20/53 (37.7 %) were among females. Of the 53 positive samples, 36/53 (68 %) were found to harbor Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). The present study has shown a relatively considerable association between HCMV and NPC. The great majority of samples sheltering HCMV were also found to hide EBV, which proposes the potentiality of EBV over HCMV.

3 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

026506   BAGRI MANJREKAR K, CHAUDHARY M, SRIDHARAN G, TEKADE S R, GADBAIL A R, KHOT K (Oral Pathology and Microbiology Dep, YMT Dental Coll and Hospital, Maharashtra, Email: drkritibagri@ gmail.com) : In vivo autofluorescence of oral squamous cell carcinoma correlated to cell proliferation rate. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 553-8.

Loss of cell differentiation and increased cellular proliferative activity during malignant transformation leads to alteration of biochemical content of cells. This is reflected in the fluorescence profile of tissues. (1) To evaluate the efficacy of autofluorescence in clinical detection of oral cancer. (2) To correlate it with the rate of cell proliferation by analyzing argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs). Autofluorescence status was studied by devising a visual enhancement system using ultraviolet light, followed by an incisional biopsy. Tissue was sent for fluorescence spectroscopy and analyzed by routine histopathology and AgNORs staining. The obtained results were statistically analyzed using Chi‑square test (P < 0.05) and one‑way analysis of variance. A statistically significant correlation was seen between autofluorescence (AF) and clinical diagnosis as well as autofluorescence and histopathological diagnosis. The importance of autofluorescence as a screening tool was further supported by a statistically significant correlation between autofluorescence status and cell proliferative rate. A preliminary effort was attempted at delving into this relatively unexplored arena of optical biopsy systems through this study. They can be used to monitor treatment and potential complications, surgical margins, detection of nodal metastasis, etc. They can provide a diagnosis noninvasively, in situ, and in real time.

2 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

026505   SHAHBAZI R, CHERAGHPOUR M, HOMAYOUNFAR R, NAZARI M, NASROLLAHZADEH J, DAVOODI S H (Clinical Nutrition and Dietetic Dep, Shahid Beheshti Univ of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Email: hdavoodi1345@ gmail.com) : Hesperidin inhibits insulin-induced phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt activation in human pre-B cell line NALM-6. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 503-8.

It has been shown that hesperidin induces apoptosis in NALM‑6 cells through inhibition of nuclear factor‑kappa B (NF‑κB) activation. To investigate the effect of hesperidin on inhibition of NF‑κB activation through blocking phosphoinositide 3–kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway as a main target in cancer treatment, in NALM‑6 cells. NALM‑6 cells were incubated with two concentrations of hesperidin (25, 50 µM) in the presence or absence of insulin (100 nM), as a potent activator of Akt. The cytotoxic activity of hesperidin was determined by 3‑(4,5‑methylthiazol‑2‑yl)‑2,5‑diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Cell apoptotic death was measured by ELISA test using cell death detection ELISA^Plus kit. To assay the effect of hesperidin on Akt pathway, the phosphorylation levels of Akt, inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα), and glycogen synthase kinase‑3 beta (GSK‑3β) and expression level of IκB kinase alpha (IKKα) were determined by Western blot analysis. Hesperidin (both concentrations) significantly reduced cells survival in the presence and absence of insulin compared to untreated cells in a time‑dependent manner (P < 0.05). Hesperidin also significantly increased apoptosis in NALM‑6 cells even in hyperinsulinemia condition (P < 0.0001). Hesperidin inhibited insulin‑induced phosphorylation and activation of Akt, IκBα, and GSK‑3β and decreased expression of IKKα. The results of this study demonstrated that cytotoxic and proapoptotic actions of hesperidin are partly mediated through the suppression of PI3K3/Akt/IKK signaling pathway. So, hesperidin might act as a chemotherapeutic agent by targeting cell survival pathways.

4 illus, 43 ref

026504   KABIRAJ A, JAISWAL R, SINGH A, GUPTA J, SINGH A, SAMADI F M (Oral Pathology and Microbiology Dep, Haldia Institute of Dental Sciences and Research, West Bengal - 721 645, Email: arpita. kabiraj82@gmail.com) : Immunohistochemical evaluation of tumor angiogenesis and the role of mast cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Can Res Ther 2018, 14(3), 495-502.

Increased angiogenesis has been associated with neoplastic progression, metastasis and outcome in several studies and in a number of malignancies. Among the various host immune cells, mast cells have been implicated in tumor progression by promoting angiogenesis. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between angiogenesis, mast cells with that of the normal oral mucosa (NOM) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The study was conducted using routine haematoxylin and eosin staining procedure and included immunohistochemical staining for microvessels and toluidine blue staining for mast cells. The microvessel density (MVD) and mast cell density (MCD) of two groups (NOM and OSCC). The MVD and MCD in OSCC ranged from 59.18 to 263.31 microvessel/mm² and 41.65 to 193.28 cells/mm² respectively with mean (± standard deviation) 161.73 ± 48.27 microvessel/mm² and 83.59 ± 40.67 cells/mm² . In both NOM and OSCC, the mean MCD was comparatively lower as compared to respective MVD (MCD < MVD) and comparatively lower in NOM as compared to OSCC (normal < OSCC). A significant correlation is present between MCD and MVD in OSCC and also that both these entities are significantly increased in the disease process when compared to that of the NOM.

15 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

026503   CHUBICKA T, GIRIJA D, DEEPA K, SALINI S, MEERA N, RAGHAVAMENON A C, DIVYA M K, BABU T D (Biochemistry Dep, Amala Cancer Research Centre, Kerala - 680 555, Email: babutd@amalaims.org) : A parasporin from Bacillus thuringiensis native to Peninsular India induces apoptosis in cancer cells through intrinsic pathway. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 407–16.

Parasporins, a class of non-insecticidal crystal proteins of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are being explored as promising anticancer agents due to their specific toxicity to cancer cells. The present study has identified 25 Bt isolates harbouring parasporin genes from Western Ghats region, the hotspot of biodiversity in India. Among these, the isolate, KAU 41 (Kerala Agricultural University isolate 41) contained non-hemolytic homogenous crystals showing specific cytotoxicity towards cancer cells. SDS-PAGE analysis of this crystal, isolated by aqueous biphasic separation, revealed a 31 kDa sized peptide. The N-terminal sequence deciphered in BLAST analysis showed homology to a hypothetical Bt protein. Upon proteolysis, a 29 kDa active peptide was generated which exhibited heterogenic cytotoxic spectrum on various cancer cells. HeLa cells were highly susceptible to this peptide with IC₅₀ 1 g/mL and showed characteristics of apoptosis. RT-qPCR analysis revealed the overexpression of APAF1, caspase 3 and 9 by 14.9, 8 and 7.4 fold, respectively which indicates the activation of intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. However, at higher concentrations of peptide (>3 g/mL), necrotic death was prominent. The results suggest that the 31 kDa protein from Bt isolate, KAU 41 is a parasporin that may have high therapeutic potential.

10 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

026502   REZAEI M, NAGHAVI M R, HOSSEINZADEH A, ABASI A, NASIRI J (Agronomy and Plant Breeding Dep, Tehran Univ, Karaj, Iran, Email: mnaghavi@ut.ac.ir) : Spatiotemporal oscillations of morphinan alkaloids in opium poppy. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 391–405.

Here, a comprehensive endeavor is made to simultaneously scrutinize spatiotemporal oscillations of three imperative morphinan alkaloids (i.e. thebaine, codeine, and morphine) alongside dynamic transcriptional patterns of TYDC, SalAT, COR, T6ODM, and CODM genes in different tissues of Papaver somniferum (i.e. root, bottom part of stem, upper part of stem, leaf, capsule wall, and capsule content) over five distinguished ontogenic stages (i.e. rosette, bud initiation, pendulous bud, flowering, and lancing). Apart from bottom stem and leaf, the maximum thebaine content occurred in lancing stage, while its minimum content did not follow a systematic rhythm, either among six tissues or five various sampling times. Regarding codeine, excepting upper stem, the highest ratios of codeine were observed at flowering and lacing stages, while negligible amounts were overall detected at early stages of plant growth like rosette. Considering morphine, apart from upper stem, it appears that late ontogeneic times including lancing and flowering are the most appropriate phases to achieve high amounts of morphine, while at early stages the aforesaid alkaloid possessed lower accumulation. Furthermore, all the five genes under study, overall, exhibited a variety of transcript levels either among six tissues or five various sampling times. Interestingly, a connection occurred between transcript ratio of SalAT and thebaine content, suggesting that thebaine biosynthesis is coordinated tightly by the enzymatic function of SalAT enzyme. Meanwhile, despite low magnitudes of T6ODM and CODM transcripts in the root-harvested samples at pendulous bud and flowering stages, both codeine and morphine were surprisingly in acceptable quantities, plausibly owing to the translocation of both alkaloids from the producing (source) tissues to the roots (sink), known as a phenomenon of ‘source-to-sink transportation’. The results, altogether, could provide us enough information in acquiring new insights towards potential impacts of spatiotemporal oscillations on the magnitudes of all the above-mentioned alkaloids alongside transcription ratios of the key genes in opium poppy

6 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

026501   DURSTON A J, PERES J, COHEN M H (Leiden Univ, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands, Email: a.j.durston@gmail.com) : Spiral waves and vertebrate embryonic handedness. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 375–90.

During early embryonic development, the vertebrate main body axis is segmented from head-to-tail into somites. Somites emerge sequentially from the presomitic mesoderm (PSM) as a consequence of oscillatory waves of genetic activity, called somitogenesis waves. Here, we discuss the implications of the dynamic patterns of early X-Delta-2 expression in the prospective somites (somitomeres) of Xenopus laevis. We report that right somitomeres normally emerge before left to form chiral structures (i.e. structures having clockwise or counter-clockwise handedness). From our observations, we infer that somitogenesis waves are normally counter-clockwise spirals, a novel dynamic mechanism for the control of handedness development in Xenopus. We propose that the same mechanism could control handedness development in all vertebrate embryos, providing a dynamical basis for the current asymmetric molecular transport model for generating left–right asymmetry

8 illus, 51 ref

026500   LOHIA R, JAIN P, JAIN M, MISHRA H, BURMA P K, SHRIVASTAVA A, SARAN S (Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi - 110 067, Email: shweta_saran@hotmail.com) : Deletion of Dictyostelium discoideum Sir2A impairs cell proliferation and inhibits autophagy. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 351–64.

Sirtuins are a family of deacetylases (Class III histone deacetylases) with evolutionarily conserved functions in cellular metabolism and chromatin regulation. Out of the seven human Sirtuins, the function of Sirt2 is the least understood. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role of Sir2A, a homolog of human Sirt2 in Dictyostelium discoideum (Dd), a lower eukaryote. We created both overexpressing and deletion strains of Ddsir2A to analyse its functions. We observed sir2A mRNA expression throughout development and the transcript was present in the prespore/spore region of multicellular structures developed. They show a preference towards prestalk/stalk pathway when co-developed with wildtype cells during chimera formation. Deletion strain showed a multi-tipped phenotype, decrease in cell proliferation and inhibition of autophagy. In conclusion, our results show low cAMP levels, reduced cell-adhesion, weak cell migration and impaired autophagy to be responsible for the phenotype shown by the null cells. This study provides new insights into the functions of Ddsir2A.

8 illus, 31 ref

026499   TANAKA Y, IKEDA T, YAMAMOTO K, MASUDA S, OGAWA H, KAMISAKO T (Clinical Laboratory Medicine Dep, Kindai Univ Faculty of Medicine, Osaka 589-8511, Japan, Email: ytanaka@med.kindai.ac.jp) : Gender-divergent expression of lipid and bile acid metabolism related genes in adult mice offspring of dams fed a high-fat diet. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 329–37.

Maternal high-fat diet (HFD) consumption during pregnancy and lactation affects metabolic outcomes and lipid metabolism of offspring in later life in a gender-specific manner. However, it is not known whether maternal HFD alters bile acid metabolism in adult mice offspring. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between maternal HFD-induced metabolic diseases and bile acid metabolism in male and female adult mice offspring. Female mice were fed either standard chow (C) or HFD (H) for 10 weeks pre-pregnancy until lactation. After weaning, offspring were fed a chow diet until 11 weeks of age, then challenged with either C or H diet for 4 weeks, and divided into eight groups in accordance with mother’s and offspring’s diets: male(M) CC, MHC, MCH, MHH, female(F) CC, FHC, FCH, and FHH. MHH showed greater weight gain compared to FHH. Liver weight was higher in MHH than in FHH. Serum total cholesterol levels were higher in MHH than in MHC, and tended to be higher in MHH than in FHH. Serum glucose levels were higher in MHH than in MHC. Hepatic triglyceride levels were higher in MHH than in MHC. Hepatic mRNA expression of bile acid uptake transporters Oatp1a1 and Oatp1b2 was increased in MHH, compared to MCH. Hepatic mRNA expression of HMGCoAR, Cyp7a1, Sult2a1, and Oatp1a4 was increased in FHH, compared to FCH. In conclusion, maternal HFD consumption may promote bile acid synthesis, sulfation and excretion in female offspring fed a HFD, which may confer resistance to HFDinduced metabolic phenotypes.

4 illus, 2 tables, 45 ref

026498   YAN H, YAN-QIONG G, ZHANG Y, WANG H, GUI-SHENG L, JIAN-YUAN L (Geratology Dep, Third Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong Univ, Xi’an- 710 068, China, Email: yanh2501@yeah.net) : Chlorogenic acid alleviates autophagy and insulin resistance by suppressing JNK pathway in a rat model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 287–94.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver diseases around the world and commonly associated with insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia. Chlorogenic acid (CG) was reported to have insulinsensitizing activity and exert hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic effect. However, the involvement of CG in NAFLD remains far from being addressed. In this study, a high-fat diet-induced NAFLD rat model was used to investigate the biological roles and underlying mechanism of CG in NAFLD. The results showed that high-fat diet-fed rats exhibited an increase in body weight, glucose tolerance, liver injury, insulin resistance, as well as autophagy and C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. Nevertheless, all these effects were alleviated by CG treatment. Moreover, angiotensin treatment in CG group activated the JNK pathway, and promoted autophagy, insulin resistance, and liver injury. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that CG ameliorated liver injury and insulin resistance by suppressing autophagy via inactivation of JNK pathway in a rat model of NAFLD. Therefore, CG might be a potential application for the treatment of NAFLD.

4 illus, 30 ref

026497   YAP W H, OOI B K, AHMED N, LIM Y M (Taylor’s Univ, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: weihsum.yap@taylors.edu.my) : Maslinic acid modulates secreted phospholipase A₂-IIA (sPLA₂-IIA)-mediated inflammatory effects in macrophage foam cells formation. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 277–85.

Secretory phospholipase A₂-IIA (sPLA₂-IIA) is one of the key enzymes causing lipoprotein modification and vascular inflammation. Maslinic acid is a pentacyclic triterpene which has potential cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent research showed that maslinic acid interacts with sPLA₂-IIA and inhibits sPLA₂-IIA-mediated monocyte differentiation and migration. This study elucidates the potential of maslinic acid in modulating sPLA₂-IIA-mediated inflammatory effects in THP-1 macrophages. We showed that maslinic acid inhibits sPLA2-IIA-mediated LDL modification and suppressed foam cell formation. Further analysis revealed that sPLA₂-IIA only induced modest LDL oxidation and that inhibitory effect of maslinic acid on sPLA₂-IIA-mediated foam cells formation occurred independently of its anti-oxidative properties. Interestingly, maslinic acid was also found to significantly reduce lipid accumulation observed in macrophages treated with sPLA₂-IIA only. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that the effect observed in maslinic acid might be contributed in part by suppressing sPLA₂-IIA-induced endocytic activity, thereby inhibiting LDL uptake. The study further showed that maslinic acid suppresses sPLA₂-IIA-induced up-regulation of PGE₂ levels while having no effects on COX-2 activity. Other pro-inflammatory mediators TNF-$\mathrm{\alpha }$ and IL-6 were not induced in sPLA₂-IIA-treated THP-1 macrophages. The findings of this study showed that maslinic acid inhibit inflammatory effects induced by sPLA₂-IIA, including foam cells formation and PGE₂ production.

4 illus, 37 ref

026496   GUPTA S K, MESHARAM M K, KRISHNAMURTHY S (Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi - 221 005, Email: ksairam.phe@iitbhu.ac.in) : Electromagnetic radiation 2450 MHz exposure causes cognition deficit with mitochondrial dysfunction and activation of intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in rats. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 263–76.

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) can induce or modulate several neurobehavioral disorders. Duration and frequency of exposure of EMR is critical to develop cognitive disorders. Even though EMR-2450 is widely used, its effects on cognition in relation to mitochondrial function and apoptosis would provide better understanding of its pathophysiological effects. Therefore, a comparative study of different frequencies of EMR exposure would give valuable information on effects of discrete frequencies of EMR on cognition. Male rats were exposed to EMR (900, 1800 and 2450 MHz) every day for 1 h for 28 consecutive days. The cognitive behavior in terms of novel arm entries in Y-maze paradigm was evaluated every week after 1 h to last EMR exposure. Animals exposed to EMR-2450 MHz exhibited significant cognitive deficits. EMR2450 MHz caused loss of mitochondrial function and integrity, an increase in amyloid beta expression. There was release of cytochrome-c and activation of apoptotic factors such as caspase-9 and -3 in the hippocampus. Further, there was decrease in levels of acetylcholine, and increase in activity of acetyl cholinesterase, indicating impairment of cholinergic system. Therefore, exposure of EMR-2450 in rats caused cognitive deficit with related pathophysiological changes in mitochondrial and cholinergic function, and amyloidogenesis.

7 illus, 2 tables, 76 ref

026495   PRASAD N, SABARWAL A, YADAV U C S, SINGH R P (Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi, Email: ranaps@hotmail.com) : Lupeol induces S-phase arrest and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. J Biosci 2018, 43(2), 249–61.

Cervical cancer is fourth most common fatal cancer in women worldwide. Lupeol is a dietary triterpenoid and has shown its anticancer efficacy against various cancer types with selectivity in targeting cancer cells. In the present study, anticancer efficacy and mechanism of action of a phytochemical, lupeol, in human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells has been examined. The anticancer efficacy of lupeol was assessed by trypan blue cell counting, annexin V assay, cell cycle analysis, expression of apoptotic proteins by RT-PCR and Western blotting and assessment of mitochondrial ROS generation by mitosox and mitotracker assays. Our results demonstrated that lupeol decreased cell proliferation and viability of HeLa cells significantly (p < 0.001). Lupeol induced S-phase cell cycle arrest and also decreased the expression of S-phase Cyclins and CDKs and increased the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, p21 at transcriptional and translational level. Further, lupeol induced apoptosis and increased the expression of apoptosis markers such as cleaved PARP and Bax:Bcl-2 ratio. Furthermore, mitosox and mitotracker dye incubation followed by FACS analysis showed an increase in mitochondrial superoxide generation and reduction in healthy mitochondrial mass. These results suggest that lupeol could be an effective chemotherapeutic agent against cervical carcinoma due to its growth inhibitory activity through induction of S-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

8 illus, 30 ref

026494   MARISELVI M, EARANNA N (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Bangalore - 560 065 (Karnataka), Email: earanna7@gmail.com) : Molecular identification and screening of mushrooms for antibacterial property against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. J Appl Nat Sci 2018, 10(2), 791 - 6.

In this study, 18 mushrooms were collected from Gandhi Krishi Vigyana Kendra (GKVK) campus, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore (India) and identified by Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region using National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) data base and screened for antibacterial property against two skin infection causing bacteria viz., Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus in dogs. Eleven mushrooms extract inhibited both the bacteria showing their antimicrobials as broad spectrum while inhibiting gram positive as well as gram negative bacteria. The highest zone of inhibition was recorded from the extract of Lyophyllum sp. The extract of two mushrooms viz., Phlebopus portentosus and Termitomyces sp. inhibited only P. aeruginosa, a gram negative bacterium and the extract of three mushrooms viz., Agaricus sp, Coprinellus disseminates and Agaricus blazei inhibited only S. aureus, a gram positive bacterium, suggesting spectral specificity of their antimicrobial compounds. However, the extracts of two mushrooms viz., Macrocybe gigantea and Schizophyllum commune did not show inhibition of any of the pathogens. Hence, this study suggests that the occurrence of potential pharmaceuticals in mushrooms can be exploited for control of multidrug resistant bacteria.

3 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

026492   VERMA G, MAHAJAN P K, SHARMA A (Basic Sciences Dep, Dr Y S Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan- 173 230, Himachal Pradesh, Email: geetverma57@gmail.com) : Correlation and path analysis between yield and different morphological characters in Kinnow Mandarin (C. Noballis × C. Deliciosa). J Appl Nat Sci 2018, 10(2), 759 - 64.

A study of interrelationship and cause-effect analysis of yield of Kinnow Mandarin (C. Noballis × C. deliciosa) and its component traits for 104 and 96 trees from Indora (Location L-1) and Indpur (Location L-2) blocks of Kangra district respectively had been done in 2014-15. F-test suggested that there was significant (1.47) variation among yield characteristics between these two locations except for fruit weight (gm) and LD ratio. Results obtained from path coefficient analysis, showed that for location L-1, number of fruits per branch (0.229), plant height (0.215) and tree girth (0.212) had highest and direct effect on yield per tree whereas for location L-2, fruit weight (0.38), number of flowers per branch (0.176) and plant girth (0.161) had highest direct effect on yield per plant. Thus, number of fruits per branch, number of flowers per branch and tree girth were the most important yield components of kinnow crop which should be exploited through a breeding programme for improving its yield potential.

5 tables, 18 ref

026491   RAWAT H, SHARMA E, FATIMA N (Clothing and Textiles Dep, G. B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263 145, Email: harsharawat.rawat@gmail.com) : Value-addition of silk using natural dye extracted from lichen (Evernia cirrhatum). J Appl Nat Sci 2018, 10(2), 627 - 32.

The natural dyes are used since pre-historic times for colouring the wide varieties of fibres for providing value addition, look and desire of the customer. In this study among the different sources of Lichen, Evernia cirrhatum was used to standardise the dyeing recipe for degummed silk cloth. A series of experiments were conducted to optimize the dyeing variables viz., medium of dye extraction, concentration of dye material, dye extraction time and dyeing time. The dyed fabric was then treated with chemical auxiliaries and fastness test was undertaken. Aqueous medium was used by taking 2 g of E. cirrhatum dye per 100 ml of water with 60 minute extraction time and 60 minute dyeing time was found to be optimum. In case of chemical auxiliaries, 2 % of citric acid, 2 % of sodium sulphate, 3 % of oxalic acid and 4 % tartaric acid with simultaneous dyeing method was found as best. It was observed that the dyed silk exhibited good to excellent colour fastness to washing and perspiration, no stain on rubbing and very good for light fastness. The chemical auxiliaries that exhibit best fastness characteristic were sodium sulphate and tartaric acid with fastness grade of good to excellent for washing and perspiration fastness, slight stain to no stain for rubbing fastness and good to very good for light fastness.

1 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

026490   LOKESH G, MURTHY G N, GOWDA V, SAHAY A, GARGI (Central Sericultural Germplasm Resources Centre, Hosur– 635 109, Tamil Nadu, Email: lokesh10csb@gmail.com) : Conservation of wild silkworm genetic resources through cryopreservation: Standardization of sperm processing. J Appl Nat Sci 2018, 10(2), 544 - 7.

Conservation of the invaluable sericigenous genetic resources is of prime importance with respect to their utilization and improvement for wider exploitation. Conservation of wild silkworms and its applicability in hybridization have limitations due to incompatibility, less amenability, change of behaviour under ex situ conditions, non-synchronization of moth eclosion and difficulties in mating between variables. In view of this, the newer technologies such as cryopreservation and artificial insemination are offering better strategies for preservation of biologically active samples like semen at sub-zero temperature (-196 ºC) conditions for longer duration. In this context, under standardization of sperms preservation from wild silkworms, two methods of semen collection were scrutinized for obtaining active and viable sperm for cryopreservation and further artificial insemination. Semen collection from the seminal vesicle of freshly emerged male moth and the other from the bursa copulatrix (BC) and spermatheca of the female moth after mating. The sperms in the semen collected from seminal vesicle are in the form of bundles known as eupyrene sperm bundles and apyrene sperms. The morphology and behaviour of these sperm bundles were recorded through microscopic examination. To study the density and motility behaviour of the sperms, sperm bundles were treated with proteolytic enzyme (~ 2 - 3 µg/ml) to digest the membrane and release the sperms. The density and motility behaviour of sperms in the semen recovered from the BC and spermatheca of female moth after mating were higher compared to those released after digestion of sperm bundles from seminal vesicle of the male moth.

5 illus, 17 ref

026489   SINGH Y, SHAH G L, JI R (Anatomy Dep, BRD Medical Coll, Gorakhpur- 273 013, Email: yogisingh99@gmail.com) : Variations of renal artery: A cadaveric study. J Anat Science 2018, 26(1), 49-53.

Renal arteries are the lateral branches of abdominal aorta, which vary in number, origin and course. The aim of this study was to document the incidence of renal artery variations in number and position, which can be advantageous to urosurgeons and imaging experts. The study was conducted on 36 formalin fixed embalmed cadavers. The renal artery variations were observed and noted during routine posterior abdominal wall dissection for medical undergraduates in dissection hall in the Department of Anatomy, BRD Medical College Gorakhpur and IMS, BHU Varanasi. We observed accessory renal artery (ies) in 30.56 % of cases with unilateral incidence in 27.78 % and bilateral in 2.67 % cases. Accessory hilar renal artery (ies) were observed in 16.68 % and accessory polar renal artery (ies) in 13.89 % cases. Accessory arteries were more common on left (16.68 %) than on the right side (11.12 %). Inferior polar arteries were more common than superior polar arteries. Knowledge of the variations of renal artery is of immense importance to the urosurgeons during renal transplantation, partial nephrectomy, laparoscopic surgery and angiographic interpretation by radiologists.

4 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

026488   KUMAR V, SRIVASTAVA A (Medicine Dep, Major S.D. Singh Medical Coll and Hospital, Farrukhabad, Email: draditisrivastava30@gmail.com) : Histological variations in fallopian tube during various phases of oestrus cycle. J Anat Science 2018, 26(1), 44-8.

The fallopian tube is the vital part of reproductive system where the fertilization of ova takes place. It also acts as a transporting channel for passing the ova and the products of conception to the uterus. To perform these vital functions fallopian tubes u ndergo various histological va riations during va rious phases of oestrus cycle. Histology of fallopian tubes of 50 female rabbits were studied by using H & E staining. Study of the cytology of vagina of the animal decided the phase of the oestrus cycle i.e. proestrus, oestrus, metaestrus and diestrus phases by Papaniculou's staining. The study revealed histological changes in relation to various phases of oestrus cycle. Epithelial surface area was maximum in oestrus phase. Secretory cells were most active in metaestrus and diestrus phases. Cilliary cells were prominent in proestrus and oestrus phases. The vascular activity was found maximum in oestrus phase.

8 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

026487   TEWARI V, JAHAN S, RANJAN R (Anatomy Dep, Rama Medical Coll Hospital and Research Centre, Kanpur- 209217, Email: vandanatewari27@yahoo.in) : Lower right quadrant pain: A sono anatomical perspective. J Anat Science 2018, 26(1), 38-43.

Ultrasonography has been found to be highly precise in evaluation of various abdominal masses. It is highly sensitive, non-invasive in nature and has no radiation risk. A prospective study aiming at sonographic evaluation of 133 patients with right lower quadrant pain/mass which includes patients of all age groups and both sexes was planned. In this study, the efficiency of ultrasonography over clinical assessment in determination of the organ of origin was evaluated in a systematic manner according to anatomy of the region. The maximum number of cases belonged to gastrointestinal (GI) pathologies (54 %) followed by genitourinary (GU) pathologies (31.6 %) while 14 % non-gastrointestinal and non-genitourinary origin.

8 illus, 5 tables, 14 ref

026486   PANT M K, PANT J, DESHPANDE S B (Anatomy Dep, Government Doon Medical Coll, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: pant.mahendra@gmail.com) : Chronic exposure to Bisphenol A produces morphological derangements in liver, kidney and heart in rats. J Anat Science 2018, 26(1), 33-7.

Bisphenol A (BPA), an estrogenic compound is used in the manufacturing of plastics and also as coating for the inner linings of food packaging containers. It is reported to be an endocrine disruptor and produce toxicity in various organs. Since BPA exposure mainly occurs in the form of oral ingestion in humans, the present study was performed to examine the effects produced by the chronic exposure to BPA orally on kidney, liver and heart in rats. Adult female rats of Charles Foster strain were used for the study. The rats were divided into two groups (n=6 in each group). In group 1, the rats were provided with food and water ad libitum whereas the rats of group 2 were fed with BPA containing pellets (2 µg/kg body weight/day) for 30 days. Thereafter the heart, kidneys and liver were excised and processed for histopathological study. The histopathological examination of the organs in BPA fed rats showed major structural changes which manifested as loss of normal cytoarchitecture in all the three organs. Further there was significant reduction in the number of glomeruli in kidneys, degenerative changes in liver in the form of damage to portal triad and in heart the intercalated discs were damaged. Chronic exposure to BPA by oral route produces renal toxicity as loss of glomeruli; hepatotoxicity as cytoarchitecture loss and cardiotoxicity as damage of intercalated disc changes.

4 illus, 20 ref