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Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which is also called COVID-19 has affected millions of people globally and has led to unprecedented disruptions to health systems, as well as affected individuals social, economic and psychological lives very badly. The present study was an attempt to address the association between age and gender among positive COVID-19 cases and also to discuss the possible reasons for the variation among age categories and gender. This was a retrospective based study. Samples were collected in Viral Transport Media and sent to the testing laboratory for confirmation by nucleic acid–based reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Data regarding patients’ details were collected in the hospital facility. A total of 1,11,379 (Assam - 1,08,836 and Arunachal Pradesh-2543) samples were collected from patient’s and tested for COVID-19 (April to December 2020). During this period a total of 2,600 positive cases were detected at the laboratory from Assam (n= 2,480, 95.38%) and Arunachal Pradesh (n= 120, 4.62%) respectively. Males (n=2106, 81%) was affected more than females (n= 494, 19%). In both male & female the age group which was affected the most was between 20-29 yrs and 30-39 yrs. Month wise distribution of the positive COVID-19 cases showed maximum spike in the month of August (n=902). Early diagnosis by real time PCR has helped in the identification of the pathogen in individuals at an early stage, which has facilitated the containment of positive cases.

A benzo[6]annulene, 4-(tert-butyl)-N-(3-methoxy-5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-yl) benzamide (1a), was identified as an inhibitor against Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) with antiviral activity EC(90) = 1.45 μM and viral titer reduction (VTR) of 2.5 log at 10 μM with no observed cytotoxicity (CC(50) = 169 μM) in normal human dermal fibroblast cells. Chemistry efforts to improve potency, efficacy, and drug-like properties of 1a resulted in a novel lead compound 8q, which possessed excellent cellular antiviral activity (EC(90) = 270 nM and VTR of 4.5 log at 10 μM) and improved liver microsomal stability. CHIKV resistance to an analog of 1a, compound 1c, tracked to a mutation in the nsP3 macrodomain. Further mechanism of action studies showed compounds working through inhibition of human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase in addition to CHIKV nsP3 macrodomain. Moderate efficacy was observed in an in vivo CHIKV challenge mouse model for compound 8q as viral replication was rescued from the pyrimidine salvage pathway.

Among the Acari, Eriophyoid mites are second largest group with regard to their economic importance as phytophagous pest throughout the world [1] Lindquist et al., 1996). These mites are drawing the attention of biologist all over the world for their morphological and biological specializations. Due to their obligatory phytophagous mode of nutrition they exhibit marked host specificity. During the general surveys for eriophyoid mites from present study area a new species, Paratetra subhimalyana sp. nov. of the class Acari of the family Eriophyidae was found as vagrants on tender shoot of Murrya koengii Spr. This new phytophagous mite species was described and illustrated from the specimens collected at English bazar, Malda (25° 0' 39.0276'' N and 88° 8' 27.9528'' E.), West Bengal, India. Relationships of new species with other eriophyoid species are also provided. After proper diagnosis of the species it is found that this is the second eriohyoid mite species described from Murraya koengii Spr. in India and added new to science as a seventh species under the genus Paratetra. This mite causes visible damage symptoms to the host plant and appeared as a potential pest of Curry leaves in India. For proper control of the mite pest, the taxonomic study of this mite and their relation to the host plant is very much essential. Taxonomic descriptions of the new species and its nature of damage is discussed in this article.

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease that has primarily been known to cause respiratory symptoms; however, there has also been an association of COVID-19 with neurological symptoms, including acute ischemic stroke (AIS). There is a lack of data on the characteristics of AIS patients with COVID-19 from the stroke belt. We aim to describe the characteristics of patients with COVID-19 and AIS and compare the characteristics of those who required intensive care unit (ICU) admission versus ward-only. Methods: Single center, retrospective cohort study of adult patients admitted in a tertiary academic center from March 1-December 31, 2020. The institutional COVID database was utilized for data collection. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected. Primary outcome measure was mortality. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay (LOS) and discharge disposition. Results: Both COVID-19 and AIS were found in 2.4% (n=75) of patients out of 3,031 patients with COVID-19, during the study period. These patients were male (45, 60%), African American (43, 57%), 65±12 years old, with hypertension (69, 92%) and Diabetes Mellitus type 2 (50, 67%). We noted a 20% (n=15) overall in-patient mortality rate among patients with both COVID-19 and AIS. Among these patients, 23% (n=17) required ICU admission. Demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics were comparable among ICU versus ward-only patients except for higher LDH (476.12±189.70 vs 276.17±88.35 U/L, p==0.0003); and lower relative lymphocytic count (3.57±3.56 vs 8.93±7.83 10 3 cells/μL, p=0.0160) among those admitted into the ICU. Mortality (13, 68% vs 6, 32%, p Conclusion: We present the first description of characteristics and outcomes of patients with AIS and COVID-19 from Mississippi. Novel to this cohort is the comparison of those who were admitted into the ICU versus ward-only. Prospective studies analyzing larger datasets of COVID-19 and stroke in the stroke-belt are warranted to further study disparities of care and outcomes.

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological cancer which rarely causes symptoms, and goes undetected until reaching the advanced stage of drug-resistant metastases. The cationic porphyrin meso-tetra(4-N-methylpyridyl)porphine (TMPyP) is a well-known photosensitizer (PS) used in photodyamic therapy (PDT) for curing cancer due to its strong affinity for DNA and high yield of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light activation. The practicality to irradiate tumor cells alone in the physiological system being slim (due to the close proximity of healthy cells and tumors), we looked for a variation in the PDT using a mixture of TMPyP with 1,5-dihydroxynapthalene (DHN) and Fe(III) ions at a mole ratio of 1:20:17 (drug combo) respectively in aqueous solution. The drug combo needs no photoactivation in H(2)O(2) rich environment (mimicking the microenvironment of cancer/tumor), where it generates ȮH and juglone, the latter being a known potent anticancer agent. In vitro studies of the drug combo in drug resistant and sensitive ovarian cancer cell lines showed drastic growth inhibition and cell death compared to normal epithelial cells. The drug combo provides an effective and non-invasive alternative to conventional PDT, exploiting the cytosolic carcinogenic H(2)O(2) to produce an efficient anticancer treatment. The unique action of cancer-specific cytotoxicity arises from the redox chemistry involving activation of Fe(III) as the oxidizing agent to generate juglone, which utilizes the cytosolic ROS in cancer cells against itself.

Background and Aims According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 75.7 million confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), a global pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), have been reported so far. Researchers are working relentlessly to find effective solutions to this catastrophe, using genomic sequence‐based investigation, immunological analysis, and more. The role of health disparity has also emerged as an intriguing factor that made a huge impact on the lives of people. Methods We analyzed various factors that triggered the health disparity in the United States of America along with the rate of COVID‐19 morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, we have also focused on the State of Mississippi, which is suffering from an extreme health disparity. Data have been obtained from publicly available data sources including, Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Mississippi State Department of Health. Correlation analysis of the dataset has been performed using R software. Results Our analysis suggested that the COVID‐19 infection rate per 100 000 people is directly correlated with the increasing number of the African American population in the United States. We have found a strong correlation between the obesity and the COVID‐19 cases as well. All the counties in Mississippi demonstrate a strong correlation between a higher number of African American population to COVID‐19 cases and obesity. Our data also indicate that a higher number of African American populations are facing socioeconomic disadvantages, which enhance their chances of becoming vulnerable to pre‐existing ailments such as obesity, type‐2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion We proposed a possible explanation of increased COVID‐19 infectivity in the African American population in the United States. This work has highlighted the intriguing factors that increased the health disparity at the time of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Mouse models are important tools both for studying the pathogenesis of infectious diseases and for the preclinical evaluation of vaccines and therapies against a wide variety of human pathogens. The use of genetically defined inbred mouse strains, humanized mice, and gene knockout mice has allowed the research community to explore how pathogens cause disease, define the role of specific host genes in either controlling or promoting disease, and identify potential targets for the prevention or treatment of a wide range of infectious agents. This review discusses several of the most commonly used mouse model systems, as well as new resources such as the Collaborative Cross as models for studying infectious diseases.

Mutagenic ribonucleosides can act as broad-based antiviral agents. They are metabolized to the active ribonucleoside triphosphate form and concentrate in genomes of RNA viruses during viral replication. β-d-N4-hydroxycytidine (NHC, initial metabolite of molnupiravir) is >100-fold more active than ribavirin or favipiravir against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), with antiviral activity correlated to the level of mutagenesis in virion RNA. However, NHC also displays host mutational activity in an animal cell culture assay, consistent with RNA and DNA precursors sharing a common intermediate of a ribonucleoside diphosphate. These results indicate highly active mutagenic ribonucleosides may hold risk for the host.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus associated with debilitating arthralgia in humans. RNA secondary structure in the viral genome plays an important role in the lifecycle of alphaviruses; however, the specific role of RNA structure in regulating CHIKV replication is poorly understood. Our previous studies found little conservation in RNA secondary structure between alphaviruses, and this structural divergence creates unique functional structures in specific alphavirus genomes. Therefore, to understand the impact of RNA structure on CHIKV biology, we used SHAPE-MaP to inform the modeling of RNA secondary structure throughout the genome of a CHIKV isolate from the 2013 Caribbean outbreak. We then analyzed regions of the genome with high levels of structural specificity to identify potentially functional RNA secondary structures and identified 23 regions within the CHIKV genome with higher than average structural stability, including four previously identified, functionally important CHIKV RNA structures. We also analyzed the RNA flexibility and secondary structures of multiple 3′UTR variants of CHIKV that are known to affect virus replication in mosquito cells. This analysis found several novel RNA structures within these 3′UTR variants. A duplication in the 3′UTR that enhances viral replication in mosquito cells led to an overall increase in the amount of unstructured RNA in the 3′UTR. This analysis demonstrates that the CHIKV genome contains a number of unique, specific RNA secondary structures and provides a strategy for testing these secondary structures for functional importance in CHIKV replication and pathogenesis. IMPORTANCE Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne RNA virus that causes febrile illness and debilitating arthralgia in humans. CHIKV causes explosive outbreaks but there are no approved therapies to treat or prevent CHIKV infection. The CHIKV genome contains functional RNA secondary structures that are essential for proper virus replication. Since RNA secondary structures have only been defined for a small portion of the CHIKV genome, we used a chemical probing method to define the RNA secondary structures of CHIKV genomic RNA. We identified 23 highly specific structured regions of the genome, and confirmed the functional importance of one structure using mutagenesis. Furthermore, we defined the RNA secondary structure of three CHIKV 3′UTR variants that differ in their ability to replicate in mosquito cells. Our study highlights the complexity of the CHIKV genome and describes new systems for designing compensatory mutations to test the functional relevance of viral RNA secondary structures.

Equid herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) is a viral pathogen of horse populations worldwide spread by the respiratory route and is known for causing outbreaks of neurologic syndromes and abortion storms. Previously, we demonstrated that an EHV-1 strain of the neuropathogenic genotype, T953, downregulates the beta interferon (IFN-β) response in vitro in equine endothelial cells (EECs) at 12 h postinfection (hpi). In the present study, we explored the molecular correlates of this inhibition as clues toward an understanding of the mechanism. Data from our study revealed that EHV-1 infection of EECs significantly reduced both Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and TLR4 mRNA expression at 6 hpi and 12 hpi. While EHV-1 was able to significantly reduce IRF9 mRNA at both 6 hpi and 12 hpi, the virus significantly reduced IFN regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) mRNA only at 12 hpi. EHV-1 did not alter the cellular level of Janus-activated kinase 1 (JAK1) at any time point. However, EHV-1 reduced the cellular level of expression of tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) at 12 hpi. Downstream of JAK1-TYK2 signaling, EHV-1 blocked the phosphorylation and activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 2 (STAT2) when coincubated with exogenous IFN, at 12 hpi, although not at 3 or 6 hpi. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that the virus prevented the nuclear translocation of STAT2 molecules, confirming the virus-mediated inhibition of STAT2 activation. The pattern of suppression of phosphorylation of STAT2 by EHV-1 implicated viral late gene expression. These data help illuminate how EHV-1 strategically inhibits the host innate immune defense by limiting steps required for type I IFN sensitization and induction. IMPORTANCE To date, no commercial vaccine label has a claim to be fully protective against the diseases caused by equid herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1), especially the neurologic form. The interferon (IFN) system, of which type I IFN is of great importance, still remains a viable immunotherapeutic option against EHV-1 infection. The type I IFN system has been exploited successfully to treat other viral infections, such as chronic hepatitis B and C in humans. The current state of research on how EHV-1 interferes with the protective effect of type I IFN has indicated transient induction of type I IFN production followed by a rapid shutdown in vitro in equine endothelial cells (EECs). The significance of our study is the identification of certain steps in the type I IFN signaling pathway targeted for inhibition by EHV-1. Understanding this pathogen-host relationship is essential for the long-term goal of developing effective immunotherapy against EHV-1.

The present study deals with facile synthesis of magnetite/coir pith supported sodium alginate beads from naturally available waste materials which was further employed for removal of malachite green dye from synthetic aqueous solution underaparametric optimized condition of the adsorption process. Several operating parameters such as stirring speed (50–250 rpm), adsorbent weight (0.5–7 g/L), pH (2–9), temperature (35–55 °C), and initial malachite green dye concentration (50–250 mg/L) were used to study the adsorption in a batch operation. The central composite design approach of response surface methodology in design-expert software revealed maximum removal efficiency of malachite green at pH of 7; initial malachite green dye concentration of 150 mg/L; adsorbent weight of 3g and temperature of 35 °C which showed adsorption efficiency (>98%). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) suggested the equation to be significant for the process with a greater impact of adsorbent weight and malachite green concentration rather than the other three contributing parameters. Extensive kinetic, isotherm, thermodynamic, and eco-toxicological studies were performed to understand the behavior and sustainability of the developed materials. Final observation assured the reusability of the processed beads and hence showed gigantic potential for implementation on industrial-scale evaluation for the treatment of wastewater.

Alphaviruses are arthropod-transmitted RNA viruses that can cause arthralgia, myalgia, and encephalitis in humans. Since the role of cellular kinases in alphavirus replication is unknown, we profiled kinetic changes in host kinase abundance and phosphorylation following chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection of fibroblasts., Alphaviruses are arthropod-transmitted RNA viruses that can cause arthralgia, myalgia, and encephalitis in humans. Since the role of cellular kinases in alphavirus replication is unknown, we profiled kinetic changes in host kinase abundance and phosphorylation following chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection of fibroblasts. Based upon the results of this study, we treated CHIKV-infected cells with kinase inhibitors targeting the Src family kinase (SFK)–phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)–AKT–mTORC signaling pathways. Treatment of cells with SFK inhibitors blocked the replication of CHIKV as well as multiple other alphaviruses, including Mayaro virus, O’nyong-nyong virus, Ross River virus, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus. Dissecting the effect of SFK inhibition on alphavirus replication, we found that viral structural protein levels were significantly reduced, but synthesis of viral genomic and subgenomic RNAs was unaffected. By measuring the association of viral RNA with polyribosomes, we found that the SFK inhibitor dasatinib blocks alphavirus subgenomic RNA translation. Our results demonstrate a role for SFK signaling in alphavirus subgenomic RNA translation and replication. Targeting host factors involved in alphavirus replication represents an innovative, perhaps paradigm-shifting, strategy for exploring the replication of CHIKV and other alphaviruses while promoting antiviral therapeutic development.

Alphaviruses are arthropod-transmitted members of the Togaviridae family that can cause severe disease in humans, including debilitating arthralgia and severe neurological complications. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or antiviral therapies directed against the alphaviruses, and care is limited to treating disease symptoms. A phenotypic cell-based high-throughput screen was performed to identify small molecules that inhibit the replication of Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus (VEEV). The compound, 1-(2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin-6-yl)-N-(3-fluoro-4-methoxybenzyl)ethan-1-amine (1), was identified as a highly active, potent inhibitor of VEEV with an effective concentration for 90% inhibition of virus (EC90) of 0.89 μM and 7.49 log reduction in virus titers at 10 μM concentration. These data suggest that further investigation of compound 1 as an antiviral therapeutic against VEEV, and perhaps other alphaviruses, is warranted. Experiments suggested that the antiviral activity of compound 1 is directed at an early step in the VEEV replication cycle by blocking viral RNA and protein synthesis.

Studies in our laboratory have shown that horses can be divided into two distinct groups based on whether they possess a subpopulation of CD3 + T lymphocytes susceptible to in vitro infection by equine arteritis virus (EAV) or not. It has been also demonstrated that stallions with the CD3 + T lymphocyte susceptibility phenotype to in vitro EAV infection are at higher risk of becoming persistently infected carriers compared to those that lack this phenotype. Furthermore, experimental EAV infection of horses with either the in vitro CD3 + T lymphocyte susceptibility or resistance phenotype showed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of proinflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokine mRNA expression. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) demonstrated that these phenotypes are associated with the CXCL16 gene located in equine chromosome 11 (ECA11). We demonstrated that the membrane bound form of the protein encoded by EqCXCL16 gene function as a primary receptor molecule for EAV. Moreover, the secretory form of the CXCL16 protein is the ligand for the chemokine receptor CXCR6 that is predicted to be expressed on CD4 + and CD8 + T cells, NKT cells, and NK cells. Thus, equine CXCL16 and CXCR6 may be two major cellular proteins associated with the EAV carrier state in stallions. Finally, analysis of multiple tissues from EAV carrier stallions unequivocally confirmed the ampullae of the vas deferens as the primary site of EAV persistence with dual immunohistochemistry studies showing that EAV is localized in fibrocytes and mononuclear cells (T and B lymphocytes) but not in the glandular epithelium.

Objective: To determine the frequency of hyperamylasemia and acute pancreatitis following organophosphate poisoning. Methodology: This is a cross sectional study conducted at the Medicine Department, B.S. Medical College, West Bengal during the period of six months from 16th June 2012 to 15th June 20013. All patients of both sexes and ages above 12 years admitted with a positive history of organophosphate poisoning (OP) were included in the study. A special Proforma was designed to enter all the collected data containing the basic information about the patient, history of recent event and the past history, physical examination and the relevant investigations like complete blood count, serum amylase and lipase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH),ultrasound abdomen CT abdomen(where needed). Result: Among 96 patients, hyperamylasemia was found in 30 (31.25%) patients. Acute pancreatitis was seen in 6 (6.25%) patients. Conclusion: Hyperamylasemia is more frequently seen in organophosphate poisoning while six patients proved to have acute pancreatitis as a complication.

Objective: Breast carcinoma is the most common cause of death in females globally, which should be detected early and treated promptly. This study aims at establishing Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) as an individual parameter in diagnosing & grading carcinoma breast and to correlate cytological grading with the histopathological grading done post-operatively. Materials & methods: We present here, a series of 44 cases, clinically suspected of carcinoma breast, presenting with hard, painful breast lump with or without axillary lymphadenopathy, sent for cytological examination to our department. Aspiration was done, following using 20G needle and smears were stained with Haematoxyline & Eosin, Papanicolau, and May-Grunwald-Giemsa. Results: The stained smear showed highly pleomorphic ductal cells in large number forming dyscohesive sheets & also lying singly. Cells had nuclei with hyperchromasia, irregular nuclear margin, open chromatin & conspicuous nucleoli. The diagnosis of carcinoma breast was offered and cytological grading was done according to Robinson's nuclear grading system in all cases. Urgent biopsy was also however, recommended. The mastectomy specimens of these patients, when grossed & stained with Haematoxyline & Eosin proved the cytological diagnosis conclusive and cytological grading of the tumors concordant in 80% of the cases. Higher cytological grades showed increased nodal metastasis. Conclution: So, early diagnosis & precise grading with the help of FNAC itself can prove to be a very good informative tool & prognostic indicator, leading to commencement of early treatment & can prevent many untimely deaths in future.

Introduction: Diffuse endothelial dysfunction in sepsis leads to an increase in systemic capillary permeability, the renal component manifesting as micro albuminuria. The degree of microalbuminuria correlates with the severity of acute insult, the quantification of which may serve to predict sepsis and mortality in critically ill patients. Objectives: 1. To evaluate the degree of microalbuminuria and correlate with severity of sepsis. 2. To evaluate levels of TNFαand severity of sepsis. 3. To correlate degree of microalbuminuria with levels of TNF α in patients with sepsis and its outcome. Methodology: The present study is prospective non interventional study. Patients admitted to medicine ward and ICU staying more than 24 hrs at S.C.B medical college, Cuttack are included in the study, during period of Sept'2011 - Sept'2012. 1. Urine samples were collected within 6 hrs of admission and again at 24 hrs. 2. Urinary microalbumin assay by microalbumin kit (pyrogallol red immunobiometric method) 3.Urinary creatinine estimation by creatinine kit (mod jaffe's kinetic method) 4. Urinary Albumin Creatinine Ratio (ACR) 30-300 mg/gm is microalbuminuria. 5. TNF α is estimated in patients with sepsis by ELISA (bioplex). Results: Patients (n=75) were classified into sepsis,severe sepsis,septic shock and MODS according to American College of chest physician society of critical care consensus. ACR in sepsis group was significantly higher than control group (P=0.0001). Among sepsis cases ACR has a positive correlation with APACHE ІІ score and also distinguishes between survivors and nonsurvivors (p=0.001). ACR could easily distinguish patients of MODS from sepsis (p=0.03) and septic shock from sepsis(p=0.007). Values of TNFα can distinguish survivors from nonsurvivors (p=0.04) and TNFα also distinguishes patients of sepsis from septic shock (p=0.002). Conclusion: Microalbuminuria has a good diagnostic and prognostic significance in sepsis as compared to APACHE ІІ score and TNFα.

Background: Hypertensive disorders are the most common medical complications during pregnancy and are associated with high maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity.One way to reduce the impact of arterial hypertension on maternal mortality is to establish the correct diagnosis of preeclampsia, and to proceed with an early intervention when it is diagnosed. The clinical signs are considered to be a late manifestation of a disease. The utility of two biochemical markers like hyperuricemia and hypocalcemia for the diagnostic purposes and for the prognosis remains largely to be explored. Objectives: (1) To determine the role of calcium & uric acid in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. (2) To determine the serum level of calcium and uric acid & its correlation with the severity with preeclampsia. Study Design: Hospital based cross sectional case control study. Methods: The study was conducted in the Ante Natal Ward in Obstetrics &Gynaecology Department, BankuraSammilani Medical College, Bankura, WB, which serves a rural population where majority of the patients belong to the tribal groups. Mild pre eclamptic patient defined as blood pressure of at least 140/90 mm of Hg. at least on two occasions at least 6 hrs apart accompanied by proteinuria of at least 300 mg per 24 hrs or at least 1+ on dipstick testing. 64 Severe preeclamptic patient defined as having one or more criteria of the following-  BP ≥160/110 mm of Hg at least on two occasions at least 6 hrs apart  Proteinuria of ≥5gm/24hrs or at least 3+ on dipstick testing  Oliguria

Background: Many studies have estimated the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MS) and also its association with type II Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. But its prevalence and association with acute cardiovascular events like Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) remained largely unexplored. Objectives: (1) To determine the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in patients with AMI; (2) To find out the association of the individual component of the metabolic syndrome with AMI. (3) To study the association of obesity markers like waist circumference (WC), Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Hip Ratio (WHR) with AMI. Study Design: Hospital based cross-sectional case control study. Methods: The study was conducted in a Medical College of Kolkata, West Bengal. Applying National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III) criteria and evaluated subjects for the 5 component conditions of the metabolic syndrome: insulin resistance, abdominal obesity based on waist circumference, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), and hypertension, as well as the full syndrome, defined by the presence of at least 3 of the 5 conditions. Statistical Analysis: Student's t test and Chi-square test. Results: Among the 76 AMI patients, 47.36% male AMI cases and 46.87% of female AMI cases had MS and both are statistically significant when compared with controls. Among the 5 component conditions of MS, 4 components like insulin resistance, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL cholesterol were more prevalent in cases in both the sex groups compared with controls and the results were statistically significant. Only one exception obesity measured by high WC (p>0.05) which was not independently related to MS. Among the component conditions insulin resistance had the highest OR in men and low HDL had the highest OR in women. Among other obesity markers the association of BMI with MI was not statistically significant whereas central obesity measured by WHR of >0.09 were significantly related to MI in both male and female group. Conclusion: The study indicates that prevalence of MS and its individual component conditions are significantly related to AMI. Considering the marker of obesity waist circumference and BMI were not significantly related to AMI whereas WHR is significantly related to AMI. Maybe this is the time when we should look upon to derive the cut off points for obesity with consideration specifically related to Asian Indians.

Objective- The Aim of this study is to investigate Perinatal outcome and the rate of ceserean section following intrapartam amnioinfusion in women with Meconium Stained Amniotic Fluid (MASF). Method- A total of 100 women at term in labour with meconium stained amniotic fluid were randomised to receive either Transcervical Intrapartum Amnioinfusion with normal saline (50) or routine obstetric care (50). Perinatal outcome and obstetric outcome were recorded and analysed in both groups. Result- The ceserean section rate due to fetal distress was 34% in the control group and 10% in the study group. Respiratory distress of the neonate was significantly less common in the study group than in the control group (p=0.0053). The rate of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS) was 20% in the control group and 4% in the study study group.(p=0.0433). Conclusion- Amniotransfusion in cases of MSAF significantly improved neonatal outcome and decreases the

Equine arteritis virus (EAV) is the causative agent of equine viral arteritis (EVA), a respiratory, systemic, and reproductive disease of horses and other equid species. Following natural infection, 10–70% of the infected stallions can become persistently infected and continue to shed EAV in their semen for periods ranging from several months to life. Recently, we reported that some stallions possess a subpopulation(s) of CD3+ T lymphocytes that are susceptible to in vitro EAV infection and that this phenotypic trait is associated with long-term carrier status following exposure to the virus. In contrast, stallions not possessing the CD3+ T lymphocyte susceptible phenotype are at less risk of becoming long-term virus carriers. A genome wide association study (GWAS) using the Illumina Equine SNP50 chip revealed that the ability of EAV to infect CD3+ T lymphocytes and establish long-term carrier status in stallions correlated with a region within equine chromosome 11. Here we identified the gene and mutations responsible for these phenotypes. Specifically, the work implicated three allelic variants of the equine orthologue of CXCL16 (EqCXCL16) that differ by four non-synonymous nucleotide substitutions (XM_00154756; c.715 A → T, c.801 G → C, c.804 T → A/G, c.810 G → A) within exon 1. This resulted in four amino acid changes with EqCXCL16S (XP_001504806.1) having Phe, His, Ile and Lys as compared to EqCXL16R having Tyr, Asp, Phe, and Glu at 40, 49, 50, and 52, respectively. Two alleles (EqCXCL16Sa, EqCXCL16Sb) encoded identical protein products that correlated strongly with long-term EAV persistence in stallions (P, Author Summary A variable proportion of EAV infected stallions (10–70%) may become persistently infected and continuously shed the virus exclusively in their semen after recovery from acute infection. Previous studies in our laboratory have shown that stallions with the CD3+ T lymphocyte susceptibility phenotype to in vitro EAV infection are at higher risk of becoming persistently infected carriers compared to those that lack this phenotype. Here genetic and experimental studies were used to demonstrate that CXCL16 in the horse codes for two proteins, one associated with resistance and the other associated with susceptibility of CD3+ T lymphocytes to EAV infection. The two proteins are the result of four nucleotide substitutions in exon 1 of the equine CXCL16 gene. These alleles determine the outcome of in vitro infection of CD3+ T lymphocytes with EAV and are strongly associated with the establishment and maintenance of long-term carrier state in stallions. In vitro studies demonstrated that one form of CXCL16 protein (CXCL16S) is one of the cellular receptors for EAV and has higher scavenger activity and adhesion ability as compared to the form of the protein associated with resistance (CXCL16R).

Previous studies in our laboratory have identified equine CXCL16 (EqCXCL16) to be a candidate molecule and possible cell entry receptor for equine arteritis virus (EAV). In horses, the CXCL16 gene is located on equine chromosome 11 (ECA11) and encodes a glycosylated, type I transmembrane protein with 247 amino acids. Stable transfection of HEK-293T cells with plasmid DNA carrying EqCXCL16 (HEK-EqCXCL16 cells) increased the proportion of the cell population permissive to EAV infection from in vitro . The binding of biotinylated virulent EAV strain Bucyrus at 4°C was significantly higher in HEK-EqCXCL16 cells than nontransfected HEK-293T cells. Finally, the results demonstrated that EAV preferentially infects subpopulations of horse CD14 + monocytes expressing EqCXCL16 and that infection of these cells is significantly reduced by pretreatment with Gp anti-EqCXCL16 pAb. The collective data from this study provide confirmatory evidence that the transmembrane form of EqCXCL16 likely plays a major role in EAV host cell entry processes, possibly acting as a primary receptor molecule for this virus. IMPORTANCE Outbreaks of EVA can be a source of significant economic loss for the equine industry from high rates of abortion in pregnant mares, death in young foals, establishment of the carrier state in stallions, and trade restrictions imposed by various countries. Similar to other arteriviruses, EAV primarily targets cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage, which, when infected, are believed to play a critical role in EVA pathogenesis. To this point, however, the host-specified molecules involved in EAV binding and entry into monocytes/macrophages have not been identified. Identification of the cellular receptors for EAV may provide insights to design antivirals and better prophylactic reagents. In this study, we have demonstrated that EqCXCL16 acts as an EAV entry receptor in EAV-susceptible cells, equine monocytes. These findings represent a significant advance in our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms associated with the entry of EAV into susceptible cells.

Objective: The objective of this study is to compare the changes in rate and indication of Caesarean section during 2005 and 2012 after a gap of 7 years. Study Design: Comparative Study. Material and Methods: In this comparative study, 2 years data i.e. of 2005 and 2012 was collected from Hospital record. 2 years data were compared fort Caesarean section rate and trends of indication of Caesarean section. Results: The results showed that in year 2005 the rate of Caesarean section was 13.94% and in year 2012 it increased to 25.68%. In both years the main indication of Caesarean section was previous Caesarean section followed by dystocia and foetal distress. Conclusion: It is suggested to have obstetric audit by inter departmental meetings to assess the intrinsic role of Caesarean section in influencing the standard management guidelines.

Background and Objective: Preeclampsia is a multi system disorders that can affect every maternal organ predominantly the cardio-vascular system, kidneys, brain and liver. The present study was conducted to compare the liver function tests in preeclampsia with normotensive pregnancy. Methodology: The present case control study was carried out at the department of obstetrics and gynaecology of Bankura Sammilani Medical College, Bankura to find the serum bilirubin and serum levels of liver enzymes ALT, AST and ALP in 100 pregnant women (50 preeclampsia and 50 normotensive pregnant women). Results: The mean BMI of cases was 28.02 ± 3.67kg/m 2 and that of control was 24.48±3.09 kg/m 2 . The mean value of serum bilirubin in cases was

Objective: Normal Thyroid hormone level is essential in maintaining the normal fetal development. The objective of the study was to evaluate the thyroid hormone levels among healthy non-pregnant women with normotensive pregnant women and women with preeclampsia. Materials and methods: In these prospective study 90 women in the age group of 19 - 36 are divided into 3 groups consisting of 30 healthy non-pregnant women, 30 healthy normotensive pregnant women and 30 pregnant women with preeclampsia and evaluated for thyroid profile. Results: Serum TT4 and TT3 levels in normotensive pregnant women and preeclamptic women were significantly higher compared to the levels in non-pregnant women. In comparison to the normotensive pregnant women, women with preeclampsia had a non significantly higher TT4 level and significantly lower TT3. In preeclamptic women serum FT4 was marginally raised than in normotensive pregnant subjects but was significantly raised than in nonpregnant subjects. The FT3 level was significantly lower in preeclamptic women than in normotensive pregnant women compared to nonpregnant subjects. TSH levels were significantly higher in both preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women. Conclusion: The main finding of our study indicates that there is a state of hypothyroidism in normal pregnancy and in preeclampsia and so raised serum TSH occurs. Detection of any changes in thyroid profile in preeclampsia may of health in preventing the development of preeclampsia.

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the changes in lipid profile in normal pregnancy and in preeclampsia. Study Design: A case control study. Method: In this case control study total 180 study subjects were evaluated, 90 normotensive pregnant woman as control group and 90 pre-eclamptic subjects as study group. Fasting venous blood samples were collected and serum levels of triglycerides (TG), Total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein- cholesterol (LDL-C), and Very low density lipoprotein – Cholesterol (VLDL-C), High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured. Result: Results showed that in pre-eclamptic group serum triglyceride (212.75 ± 50.29 mg/dl) was increased significantly (p < 0.02) as compared to normotensive pregnant woman (185.60± 40.67 mg/dl). Other parameters TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C and HDL-C were not changed significantly. Conclusion: The findings of the present study are consistent with previous studies, suggesting increased level of serum triglyceride as an important factor in the pathological process of pre-eclampsia.

Lignin–HTPB copolyurethanes have been synthesized from hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) and varied quantities of lignin and toluene diisocyanate. IR spectroscopy and estimation of isocyanate groups have established the formation of HTPB polyurethane and lignin–HTPB copolyurethane. The crosslink density, sol fraction, diffusion coefficient, mechanical properties and X-ray crystallinity of lignin–HTPB copolyurethane have been measured and compared with those of HTPB polyurethane. Tensile strength improvement of lignin–HTPB copolyurethane was observed up to 3-wt.% lignin incorporation. High hydroxyl value of lignin has been found responsible for the decrease in tensile strength with the increase in lignin content of lignin–HTPB copolyurethane.

Abstract 4710 Background The BCR-ABL fusion gene results from the translocation t(9;22). It is the hallmark of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and is present in a poor risk subgroup of precursor B cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia(ALL),which represents 25 to 30% of adult ALL and 3 to 5 % of childhood ALL. So far, the BCR-ABL aberration has been detected by cytogenetics, FISH or PCR, all techniques that are time consuming and require special facilities. We developed a simple flow cytometric bead assay for detection of the BCR-ABL fusion protein in cell lysates,using a bead bound catching antibody against one side of the fusion protein and a fluorochrome-conjugated detection antibody against the other side of the fusion protein. Flow cytometry allows for the discrimination of particles on the basis of attributes such as, size and fluroscence. BDTM Cytometric Bead. The aim of our study was to see the effectiveness of Flowcytometric detection of BCR-ABL and cost effectiveness of the method. Materials and Methods Test Specimens: 50 patients, CML 37 and Adult ALL 10, Paediatric ALL. Reagents: BD BCR-ABL Protein Kit (BD Cat No: 643939) BD BCR-ABL buffer Kit (BD Cat No: 560272), Detection Reagent. BD BCR-ABL Protein Kit Protocol: Lysate preparation from samples (PBMCs) : Blood samples were processed through Ficoll-Paque TM medium to collect the mono nuclear cell layer as PBMCs. Cell collected were washed with PBS with 5% FBS and resuspended with PBS with 5% FBS before cell counting. PBMC s were resuspended in pretreatment buffer (PBS with 5% FBS plus IX pretreatment A and IX pretreatment B) at 10 million cells/ml and incubated for 10 mins. on ice. The pretreated cells were washed ones, then resuspended in lysing solution (BD Pharmingen TM cell lysis buffer plus IX BD lysate treatment reagent )at 25 million cells/ ml and incubated for 15 mins. on ice. The resulting supernatant (cell lysate) was Colleted after centrifugation. CBA Assay: to a BD Falcon TM 12 × 75mm polystyrene tube 50μl each of lysate, BCRABL Capture Beads and BCRABL detection reagent were added and mixed carefully. The tube was incubated for 2hrs at room temperature in the dark with constant mixing, and then contents were washed with 1 ml of BD CBA wash Buffer. Tube contents were resuspended with 300μl of BD CBA washed buffer. Samples were acquired with the BD FACS Canto II Flow Cytometer. The Cytometer flow rate was set to medium and data were acquired from 20 negative samples. The PE MFI for each sample was determining, and the mean of at least 20 values was calculated. The limit of detection was set at the mean plus two standard deviation. Karyotyping: The Kaiser Home-brew reagent was used and related protocol was followed. FISH: Abbott Visys LSI BCR/ABL, Dual Fusion Translocation Probe. QRT PCR Detection: The Kaiser Home-brew reagent was used and related protocol was followed. Result Detection of all variants of the BCR ABL fusion protein. The anti BCR antibody was developed against a nonhomologus region of appox. 80 amino acids encoded by exon 1, which allowed us to detect all known BCR aBL variants, including p190, p 210, p230 as demonstrated by analysis of a series of well defined cell lines. The assay appeared to be specific and sufficiently sensitive to detect BCR ABl proteins in Lysates of Leukocyte samples of Leukemia patients at diagnosis. Protease inhibition needed in cell samples with many mature myeloid cells. Protein stability problems were encounter when cells samples contain high frequencies of mature myeloid cells with high levels of protease activity, such as CML cells and granulocyte fractions. This problem could be significantly encountered by adding protease inhibitors to several steps of the immunobead assay. Conclusion We conclude that the flow cytometry immunobead assay is a fast and easy technique for specific detection of BCR ABL proteins in Leukemic cells. The main advantaged of the immunobead assay are : § Not dependent on the breakpoint position in the BCR gene; does not need special laboratory facilities other than a Dual laser(4 colour) flow Cytometer and Provides results within few hours. The result is semiquantitative depending on the Mean Fluroscence Intensity. (MFI) § Can be run in parallel to routine immunophenotyping § Easy diagnosis and classification of leukemias with fusion genes. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.