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Background: Dermatophytosis disease was found most common disease worldwide which showed a wide prevalence in tropical country as India and it is a wide importance to know their disease etiology and their clinical presentation. Study objective approaches to determine the clinical variation in Dermatophytosis and the species of fungus isolates which responsible for the infection in this area. Materials and Methods: In our study 1520 specimens were taken from infected skin, hair and nail screened by 10%-20% KOH mount examination and used Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar (SDA) medium and Sabouraud’s Dextrose Chloramphenicol and Cycloheximide (SCCA) & Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM) for culture and incubated at 27°C. Further identification done by slide culture method and lactophenol cotton blue mount. Result: Out of 1520 samples taken, 981(64.54%) were found KOH mount positive for fungal elements and 1076 (70.79%) were found culture positive. (21.64%) was found predominantly among other isolated species. Study was found Tinea corporis (50.39%) as common clinically. Conclusion: The study was highlighted with Tinea corporis being the commonest infection type with variable fungal agents and out of other fungal isolates was found a most common isolate in various clinical conditions. Keywords: Dermatophytosis, Trichophyton mentagrophyte, Tinea corporis, Fungal elements, KOH Positive, Lactophenol Cotton Blue, Sabrouraud’s Dextrose Agar.

Background: A significant proportion of nosocomial infections is contributed by the Pseudomonas sp. Major changes were observed from time to time in Pseudomonas sp. prevalence and multidrug-resistant (MDR) with enormous morbidity and mortality. The spread of antimicrobial resistance has now become a worldwide issue as a consequence of the haphazard use of antimicrobials. Place and duration: This study was done in the Amaltas Institute of Medical Sciences from February 2019 to December 2019. Materials and Methods: Pseudomonas sp. was isolated from different clinical samples like urine, sputum, pus, fluid, and catheter tip. Identification of Pseudomonas sp. was done by biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) was done by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Data Analysis was done by percentage method. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBLs) production was detected by the combined disc diffusion test. Results: Sensitivity was seen in colistin and polymyxin B - 100%, meropenem - 86.58% and piperacillin -tazobactam - 82.92%. Resistance was seen in co-trimoxazole- 80.48%, cefixime- 82.92%, cefoperazone/sulbactam-59.75% and ciprofloxacin- 39.02%. The maximum number of MDR strains were isolated from the pus samples (n=18) as compared to other samples. The total number of ESBL producing strains was seen higher in the pus samples (n=15). The number of P. aeruginosa strains (n=57) was seen greater in number than other Pseudomonas sp. Conclusion: The present study is an attempt to regulate the use of antibiotics that are irrelevant and wasteful. It is also a public health concern to take adequate measures, maintain cleanliness and hygiene to reduce the spread of nosocomial infections. Keywords: Antibiotic susceptibility test (AST), Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Multiple drug resistance (MDR), Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)

Background: This study aimed to understand the regional variation in the socio-demographic and clinical profile of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients at antiretroviral therapy plus centre of Sawai Man Singh (SMS) hospital, Jaipur, India. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on HIV patients from January to December 2019. The HIV-positive patients of all age groups and all categories were included in the study. The socio-economic status was assessed by BG Prasad classification-based consumer price index. However, the clinical staging was done according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of HIV/AIDS. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results: Among 525 HIV patients 59.16% were males, 40.26% females and 0.57% intersex. About half (51.0%) in the reproductive age group with mean age 36 ±13 years. The commonest mode of HIV transmission was heterosexual (89.77%). Maximum belonged to social class I (57.84%) and class II (26.05 %) of BG Prasad's socioeconomic status. Each of the non-agricultural laborers and semi-skilled workers constitutes 18.0%, and the housewives were 23.6%. At the time of presentation, baseline CD4+Tcell count was

Background: It has been seen that the effects of dynamic stretching and cryotherapy has good effects in the performance of the football players. There are enough evidences and literature on both individually but the comparison between the two was not found. So, with the same concept comparison has been taken out with some interventions in the recreational football players. Purpose of Study: The purpose of this study was to check the comparative effects of both the interventions upon different variables like vertical jump height, agility and 20 meter sprint. Methodology: 30 subjects were taken, who were divided into 2 groups. The first group received dynamic stretching first and then cryotherapy and the second group vice-versa. Further, after a period of 48 hours of flush out time the interventions were reversed to both the groups. Pre and post readings of variables were taken: vertical jump height, agility and 20 meter sprint. Result: Vertical jump height test was significant for both the groups, after dynamic stretching. Vertical Jump height test had a significant p-value of 0.01 in group A and non-significant value for group B, after cryotherapy that is 0.531. T-test was significant for group A with a p value of 0.01 and non-significant for group B with a P value of 0.481. Significant for group B after cryotherapy with a p-value of 0.061. Conclusion: It can be inferred from the result of the study that each Variable: vertical jump height increased significantly in Group A and B after stretching but there was no significance in group B in the vertical jump height test in which cryotherapy was given first. Cryotherapy significantly increased the 20 meter sprint. Agility increased with dynamic stretching. On comparing the two groups-A and B, it was found that the sequence of altered interventions given (dynamic stretching/ cryotherapy) do not give any significant difference in the results as a whole. How to cite this article:Naz F, Zutshi K, Dhingra M, Kumar M. Comparative Effects of Dynamic Stretching and Cryotherapy on the Physical Performance in Recreational Football Players: A Randomised Crossover Study. Ind J Youth Adol Health 2020; 7(3): 10-15. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2349.2880.202012

Introduction Fluconazole resistance in Candida tropicalis health care–associated infections is increasing. We investigated the role of efflux pump and mutations in ERG11p conferring fluconazole resistance in C. tropicalis. Materials and methods A total of 17 C. tropicalis clinical isolates, including fluconazole-resistant and fluconazole-susceptible/fluconazole-susceptible dose-dependent isolates, were collected from a tertiary care centre in a North India region between 2015 and 2018. Antifungal susceptibility, reversal of fluconazole resistance by tacrolimus, ERG11 amplification and its sequencing and a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for expression analysis of ERG11, MDR1 and CDR1 genes were performed. Results and discussion Synergism between fluconazole and tacrolimus was observed in all resistant C. tropicalis isolates. Overexpression of all the three genes, MDR1, ERG11 and CDR1, was observed in resistant isolates (P = 0.05). Among resistant isolates, mutations leading to amino acid substitution were seen in two, Ct10 (glysine464serine) and Ct16 (tyrosine132phenylalanine; serine154phenylalanine). Conclusion Overexpression in efflux pump transporter genes, together with mutations in ERG11, lead to fluconazole resistance among C. tropicalis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on the C. tropicalis fluconazole resistance mechanism from the North India region.

Background: Bloodstream Candida infection is a life-threatening event among ICU admitted patients. This infection is caused by a diverse range of Candida species having varied minimum inhibitory concentrations. Objectives: To identify Candida species causing bloodstream infections with their antifungal susceptibility determination. Methods: Candida species isolated from the blood of ICU admitted patients were identified by phenotypic as well as by molecular methods including PCR-RFLP using MspI restriction enzyme and MALDI TOF MS. The minimum inhibitory concentration of fluconazole, voriconazole, amphotericin B and caspofungin was determined against isolated Candida species by CLSI M27A3 guidelines. Results: A total of 119 Candida species were isolated. Among them, C. tropicalis(n = 29) was the predominant isolate followed by C. parapsilosis(n = 18), C. glabrata (n = 12), C. krusei (n = 11) and C. albicans(n = 11). Uncommon Candida species isolated were; Wickerhamomyces anomalus(n = 15), Kodaemia ohmeri(n = 8), C. lusitaniae (n = 5) and C. auris (n = 2). A varied antifungal MIC values were observed. Caspofungin had the lowest MIC among the tested antifungals. Increased fluconazole MIC was observed against the isolated Candida species including C. tropicalis. All the isolated C. lusitaniae and C. auris strains have ≥1mcg/ml amphotericin B MIC. In comparison to fluconazole, voriconazole was more effective when tested in vitro. Conclusion: Emergence of uncommon Candida species having varied antifungal MIC warns the physicians to have a prompt, accurate identification with antifungal MIC determination in each case of bloodstream Candida infections. Keywords: Caspofungin, Fluconazole, Amphotericin B, C.tropicalis, C. auris, W. anomalus

Nowadays obesity is the major health problem due to food habit and life style of people. Nature and natural compounds possess lots of health benefits. To explore the therapeutic benefit of Cyperus rotundus in this work, we have evaluated the anti-obesity potential on Monosodium glutamate (MSG) induced obese rats. Methanolic extract of tubers of Cyperus rotundus was administered at the dose of 250 and 500 mg/kg/oral after 45 d of treatment and a significant improvement in body weight, organs and lipid profile was observed as compared with MSG induced obese rats. Nowadays obesity is a common metabolic disorder in developed and developing countries. It was observed that Cyperus rotundus tuber possesses anti-obesity potential and protective action on heart and liver.

Extra pulmonary TB is present in 15% of all TB cases. This incidence is higher about 50% in HIV affected patients. Tuberculous pleural effusion accounts for 4% of all TB cases. Though we have lot of diagnostic methods to diagnose pulmonary TB, we are lacking of a good diagnostic method to identify tubercular pleural effusion. In this issue we have studied the utility of Nested PCR (MTP40) in diagnosis of tubercular pleural effusion. We have included 200 pleural effusion patients. The sensitivity of Nested PCR test is 19% and specificity 100%, Diagnostic Accuracy 59.5%. This study conducted from May 2017 to June 2019. This is a cross sectional study done in a tertiary care center in Varanasi included 200 patients of pleural effusion. Keywords: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Tubercular pleural effusion.

Over the last few decades, anticancer peptides (ACPs) have turned into potential warheads against cancer. Apart from small molecules and monoclonal antibodies, ACPs have been proven to be effective against cancer cells. ACPs are small cationic peptides that selectively bind to the negatively charged cancer cell membrane and kill them by various mechanisms. In the present study, we prepared a random scrambled library of 1200 peptides from the 100 known ACPs and virtually screened them for their anticancer properties. From in silico-predicted ACPs, 27 peptides were prioritized based on their support vector machine (SVM) score. Based on the SVM score and properties such as hydrophobicity, size, overall net charge, secondary structure, and synthetic feasibility, finally, four peptides were synthesized and screened for their biological activities. Cancer cell membrane-deforming potential of two most active peptides, peptide1 and peptide2 was assessed with molecular dynamics simulation. We found that peptide1 remains adsorbed to the membrane surface, while peptide2 has membrane penetration capability. The present study will be helpful in the computational design of ACPs and understanding their interaction with the cancerous cell's membrane.

Syzygium cumini is well known for its medicinal values in the indigenous Indian system of medicine. This study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of methanolic (SCM), ethanolic (SCE) and aqueous (SCA) extracts of Syzygium cumini seeds on arsenic-induced blood cell genotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. Rats were divided into five groups: (1) control, (2) arsenic, (3) SCM, (4) SCE and (5) SCA. After completion of 60 days treatment period, comet assays were performed on isolated blood lymphocytes and serum marker assays indicative of hepatic toxicity were carried out. Arsenic exposed rats expressed significantly higher DNA damage in their lymphocytes than the unexposed rats. Increased activities of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and decreased levels of total proteins were observed in arsenic exposed rats. Simultaneous administration of Syzygium cumini seed extracts significantly decreased the arsenic-induced DNA damage and hepatotoxicity. The amelioration of arsenic toxicity was more pronounced with methanolic extract compared to ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Syzygium cumini seeds.

A technology for systemic and repeated administration of osteogenic factors for orthopedic use is an unmet medical need. Lactoferrin (∼80 kDa), present in milk, is known to support bone growth. We discovered a lactoferrin-mimetic peptide, LP2 (an 18-residue fragment from the N-terminus of the N-lobe of human lactoferrin), which self-assembles into a nano-globular assembly with a β-sheet structure in an aqueous environment. LP2 is non-hemolytic and non-cytotoxic against human red blood cells and 3T3 fibroblasts, respectively, and appreciably stable in the human serum. LP2 through the bone morphogenetic protein-dependent mechanism stimulates osteoblast differentiation more potently than the full-length protein as well as the osteoblastic production of osteoprotegerin (an anti-osteoclastogenic factor). Consequently, daily subcutaneous administration of LP2 to rats and rabbits with osteotomy resulted in faster bone healing and stimulated bone formation in rats with a low bone mass more potently than that with teriparatide, the standard-of-care osteogenic peptide for osteoporosis. LP2 has skeletal bioavailability and is safe at the 15× osteogenic dose. Thus, LP2 is a novel peptide that can be administered systemically for the medical management of hard-to-heal fractures.

In over eighty years, despite successive antibiotics discoveries, the rapid advent of multidrug resistance among bacterial pathogens has jolted our misapprehension of success over them. Resistance is spreading faster than the discovery of new antibiotics/antimicrobials. Therefore, the search for better antimicrobials/additives becomes prudent. A water-soluble curcumin derivative (Curaq) was synthesised, employing a Cu (I) catalysed 1, 3-cyclo addition reaction, it has been evaluated as a potential treatment for multidrug-resistant isolates and as an antibiotic adjuvant for meropenem against hypervirulent multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates. We also investigated its solubility and effect over carbapenemase activity. Additionally, we investigated its impact on the AcrAB-TolC system. We found that Curaq inhibited bacterial growth at a minimal concentration of 16 µg/mL, at a 32 µg/mL concentration, it killed bacterial growth completely. Only nine (9.4%) Klebsiella isolates were sensitive to meropenem, however, after synergising with Curaq (8 µg/mL), 85 (88.54%) hvKP isolates became sensitive to the drug. The Curaq also inhibited the AcrAB-TolC efflux system at 1µg/mL concentration by disrupting the membrane potential and causing depolarisation. The kinetic parameters obtained also indicated its promise as a carbapenemase inhibitor. These results suggest that Curaq can be an excellent drug candidate as a broad-spectrum antibacterial and anti-efflux agent.

The upsurge of multidrug resistant bacterial infections with declining pipeline of newer antibiotics has made it imperative to develop newer molecules or tailor the existing molecules for more effective antimicrobial therapies. Since antiquity, the use of curcumin, in the form of Curcuma longa paste, to treat infectious lesions is unperturbed despite its grave limitations like instability and aqueous insolubility. Here, we utilized “click” chemistry to address both the issues along with improvisation of its antibacterial and antibiofilm profile. We show that soluble curcumin disrupts several bacterial cellular processes leading to the Fenton’s chemistry mediated increased production of reactive oxygen species and increased membrane permeability of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. We here report that its ability to induce oxidative stress can be harnessed to potentiate activities of ciprofloxacin, meropenem, and vancomycin. In addition, we demonstrated that the soluble curcumin reported herein even sensitizes resistant Gram-negative clinical isolates to the Gram-positive specific antibiotic vancomycin, thereby expanding the antibacterial spectrum of this drug. This work shows that the soluble curcumin can be used to enhance the action of existing antimicrobials against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria thus strengthening the antibiotic arsenal for fighting resistant bacterial infections for many years to come.

Periodontitis is a biofilm-associated irreversible inflammation of the periodontal tissues. Reports suggest the role of Porphyromonas gingivalis specific Arg- and Lys-specific proteinases in the orchestration of the initiation and progression of periodontal diseases. These proteinases are precisely termed as gingipains R and K. Curcumin is an active polyphenol that is extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa. However, the molecule curcumin owing to its high hydropathy index and poor stability has not been able to justify its role as frontline drug modality in the treatment of infectious and non-infectious diseases as claimed by several investigators. In the present study, at first, we synthesized and characterized quantum curcumin, and investigated its biocompatibility. This was subsequently followed by the evaluation of the role of quantum curcumin as an antimicrobial, anti-gingipains and antibiofilm agent against Porphyromonas gingivalis and select reference strains. We have successfully synthesized the quantum curcumin utilizing a top-down approach with the average size of 3.5 nm. Apart from its potent antimicrobial as well as antibiofilm properties, it also significantly inhibited the gingipains in a dose-dependent manner. At the minimal concentration of 17.826 μM, inhibition up to 98.7% and 89.4% was noted for gingipain R and K respectively. The data was also supported by the in silico docking experiments which revealed high exothermic enthalpies (−7.01 and −7.02 cal mol−1). Besides, the inhibition constant was found to be 7.24 μM and 7.1 μM against gingipains R and K respectively. The results suggest that quantum curcumin is a potential drug candidate which needs further clinical validation.

Lysosome has been long understood as a vital digestive organelle. Increasing reports indicate that the lysosome also plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Abnormal protein degradation and deposition stimulated by lysosomal dysfunction may cause age-related neurodegeneration. Enormous efforts have been devoted to the development of effective therapeutics against Alzheimer's disease, the most debilitating neurodegenerative disease. Endopeptidase activity of the Cathepsin-B is associated with the pathological processes. Work presented here focuses on identification of new inhibitors against Cathepsin-B protein using diverse computational approaches together. The inhibitors identified were further tested for in-vitro activity using enzyme based assay method. The identified inhibitors provided interesting understanding on how the water thermodynamic properties along with hydrophobic, steric, electronic, and structural requirements contribute to cathepsin-B inhibitory activity. These water thermodynamic studies, may further be used in computer aided drug discovery pipeline to design and predict more potent derivatives of various scaffolds as cathepsin-B inhibitors.

Fungal infections are an important cause of mortality and morbidity in the neonatal period, especially in preterm infants. Candida albicans is the most common pathogenic yeast to neonates but invasive fungal infections caused by uncommon fungi have emerged in recent years. Wickerhamomyces anomalus is a emerging fungal pathogen causing blood stream infection in neonates, which has reportedly caused only few cases in the literature. Here we present a case series of total twelve cases of Wickerhamomyces anomalus isolated from blood of neonates. All 12 isolates were identified by Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization- time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and were susceptible to voriconazole, amphotericin-B, caspofungin and 3 isolates showed reduced susceptibility to fluconazole. Risk factor assessment was also performed which showed that preterm birth and antibiotic use were most common associated risk factors. Despite all available treatment measures four out of twelve neonates died during treatment. This case series highlights Wickerhamomyces anomalus as an emerging fungal pathogen and emphasize the importance of molecular methods in its accurate identification.

Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of this study is to detect invasive fungal infections (IFIs) early and with more sensitivity by the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for fungus as compared to fungal culture in clinically suspected patients and also explore its correlation in reference to age, duration of symptoms, immunocompromised status, and other risk factors predisposing to IFIs. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 50 suspected patients admitted in medical acute care unit/intensive care unit (ACU/ICU) of Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India, comprised the study. All cases were selected based on the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A detailed history, clinical examination, and all required investigations were done in all suspected patients. Blood samples were taken for nested-PCR for fungus and culture. Nested PCR was performed on extracted DNA form samples collected from all participants under the study. Results: Our study comprised of 50 suspected immunocompromised patients of IFIs. Among the participants under the study, the most common risk factor was diabetes mellitus (28% cases). Nearly two-thirds (60%) of the cases were 50 years or more. Around 70% of the cases had a history of illness more than 2 weeks. Nested PCR for fungus came out to be positive in 21/50 patients (42%); however, fungal culture was positive in none. Among the admitted patient in ACU/ICU, 75% were neutropenic. Conclusions: IFIs are more common in immunocompromised individuals, patients with comorbidities, long history of symptoms, and elderly population. Nested PCR for fungus has a high sensitivity (as compared to the fungal culture), and also they are rapid in giving the results. Thus, nested PCR for fungus can be used in a cost-effective manner for the early and reliable diagnosis of clinically suspected IFIs.

Introduction: Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been declared a notified disaster and public health emergency of international concern. Health-care workers (HCWs) who are involved in the care of these COVID patients are at additional risk of developing mental illness themselves due to direct exposure associated with the disease in them leading to this study. Aim: This study aims to assess the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 pandemic on HCW using Screening Questionnaire for Disaster Mental Health (SQD). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on 112 HCW in SMS Hospital, Jaipur from June 1, 2020, to June 15, 2020. SQD was used to assess the magnitude of posttraumatic stress disorder and depression in these HCWs who were directly involved in care of COVID-19 patients at some point of time and had no previous history of mental illness. Results: 5.67% HCW were suffering from severe posttraumatic stress disorder and similar 5.67% had severe depression due to COVID-19. Results analyzed by t-test found that, overall, HCWs were mildly affected by COVID-19 in terms of posttraumatic stress disorder (mean value 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.80–2.53, P = 0.000) and depression (mean value 1.27; 95% CI = 0.97–1.57, P = 0.000) as per SQD scale. Conclusion: The study highlighted that the majority of the HCW were slightly affected by corona pandemic in terms of posttraumatic stress disorder and depression but as corona is still persisting, the need of constant vigilance for its psychosocial impact on them continues. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge, Professionalism, Practice-based learning and improvement, Systems-based practice.

Antimicrobial peptides are promising molecules in uprising consequences of drug-resistant bacteria. The prodomain of furin, a serine protease, expressed in all vertebrates including humans, is known to be important for physiological functions. Here, potent antimicrobial peptides were mapped by extensive analyses of overlapping peptide fragments of the prodomain of human furin. Two peptides, YR26 and YR23, were active against bacterial cells including MRSA-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermis 51625. Peptides were largely devoid of hemolytic and cytotoxic activity. Bacterial cell killing occurred as a result of the disruption of the permeability barrier of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-outer membrane and fragmentation of LPS into small micelles. Furthermore, antibacterial peptides specifically interacted with the negatively charged lipids causing membrane leakage and fusion. The YR26 peptide in sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles demonstrated a long-helix-turn-short-helix structure exhibiting restricted backbone motions. The cell-selective activity of the furin peptides and their unique mode of action on membranes have a significant potential for the development of therapeutics. MOE (Min. of Education, S’pore) Published version

Vaccination is devised/formulated to stimulate specific and prolonged immune responses for long-term protection against infection or disease. A vaccine component, namely adjuvant, enhances antigen recognition by the host immune system and thereby stimulates its cellular and adaptive responses. Especially synthetic Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists having self-assembling properties are considered as good candidates for adjuvant development. Here, a human TLR4-derived 20-residue peptide (TR-433), present in the dimerization interface of the TLR4–myeloid differentiation protein-2 (MD2) complex, displayed self-assembly and adopted a nanostructure. Both in vitro studies and in vivo experiments in mice indicated that TR-433 is nontoxic. TR-433 induced pro-inflammatory responses in THP-1 monocytes and HEK293T cells that were transiently transfected with TLR4/CD14/MD2 and also in BALB/c mice. In light of the self-assembly and pro-inflammatory properties of TR-433, we immunized with a mixture of TR-433 and either ovalbumin or filarial antigen trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP). A significant amount of IgG titers was produced, suggesting adjuvanting capability of TR-433 that was comparable with that of Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) and appreciably higher than that of alum. We found that TR-433 preferentially activates type 1 helper T cell (T(h)1) response rather than type 2 helper T cell (T(h)2) response. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the identification of a short TLR4-derived peptide that possesses both self-assembling and pro-inflammatory properties and has significant efficacy as an adjuvant, capable of activating cellular responses in mice. These results indicate that TR-433 possesses significant potential for development as a new adjuvant in therapeutic application.

Arsenic is present in water, soil, and air in organic as well as in inorganic forms. However, inorganic arsenic is more toxic than organic and can cause many diseases including cancers in humans. Its genotoxic effect is considered as one of its carcinogenic actions. Arsenic can cause DNA strand breaks, deletion mutations, micronuclei formation, DNA-protein cross-linking, sister chromatid exchange, and DNA repair inhibition. Evidences indicate that arsenic causes DNA damage by generation of reactive free radicals. Nutritional supplementation of antioxidants has been proven highly beneficial against arsenic genotoxicity in experimental animals. Recent studies suggest that antioxidants protect mainly by reducing excess free radicals via restoring the activities of cellular enzymatic as well as non-enzymatic antioxidants and decreasing the oxidation processes such as lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. The purpose of this review is to summarize the recent literature on arsenic-induced genotoxicity and its mitigation by naturally derived antioxidants in various biological systems.

MD2, a 160-residue accessory glycoprotein, is responsible for the recognition and binding of Gram-negative bacterial membrane component, lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Internalization of pathogen inside the mononuclear phagocytes has also been attributed to MD2 which leads to the clearance of pathogens from the host. However, not much is known about the segments in MD2 that are responsible for LPS interaction or internalization of pathogen inside the defense cells. A 16-residue stretch (MD54) from MD2 protein has been identified that possesses a short heptad repeat sequence and four cationic residues enabling it to participate in both hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions with LPS. An MD54 analog of the same size was also designed in which a leucine residue at a heptadic position was replaced with an alanine residue. MD54 but not its analog, MMD54 induced aggregation of LPS and aided in its internalization within THP-1 monocytes. Furthermore, MD54 inhibited LPS-induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB in PMA-treated THP-1 and TLR4/MD2/CD14-transfected HEK-293T cells and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, in in vivo experiments, MD54 showed marked protection and survival of mice against LPS-induced inflammation and death. Overall, we have identified a short peptide with heptad repeat sequence from MD2 that can cause aggregation of LPS and abet in its internalization within THP-1 cells, resulting in attenuation of LPS-induced pro-inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo.

Marine fish antimicrobial peptide, chrysophsin-1 possesses versatile biological activities but its non-selective nature restricts its therapeutic possibilities. Often small alterations in structural motifs result in significant changes in the properties of concerned proteins/peptides. We have identified GXXXXG motif in chrysophsin-1. Glycine residue(s) of this motif in Chrysophsin-1 was/were replaced with alanine, valine and proline residue(s). Of these, proline-substituted Chrysophsin-1 analogs exhibited significantly reduced cytotoxicity towards mammalian cells. Further, these analogs showed broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains and fungi and also retained antibacterial activity in presence of physiological salts, serum and at elevated temperatures indicative of their therapeutic potential. These Chrysophsin-1 analogs also inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced pro-inflammatory responses in THP-1 cells and in murine primary macrophages. One of these single proline-substituted Chrysophsin-1 analogs inhibited LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokine production in BALB/c mice and elicited appreciable survival of mice administered with a lethal dose of LPS in a model of severe sepsis. The data for the first time showed the implication of GXXXXG motifs in functional and biological properties of an antimicrobial peptide and could be useful to design novel anti-microbial and anti-endotoxin peptides by employing this motif.

We report a case report of Candida albicans suture infiltrate on 3rd post-op day in a 53 year female operated for penetrating keratoplasty. Candida albicans was identified by KOH mount, Gram Staining, germ tube, growth at 450C, chlamydospore formation and light green color on CHROMagar with sugar assimilation and culture characteristics. Despite being susceptible to Fluconazole by broth microdilution, patient did not respond to 0.3% fluconazole eye drops. On antifungal susceptibility testing by CLSI44A, it was susceptible to only Amphotericin B (100units). Patient was then started on 0.15% fortified amphotericin B eye drops resulting in complete resolution of infiltrates. Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-5(3) 2014: 116-119 http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i3.8669

The present study was carried out in two small towns namely Santir Bazar and Julaibari situated within the subdivision of South District Tripura to document the traditionally used ethnomedicinal plants for curing domestic animal ailments prevailing in the locality. Four developmental blocks Bakafa and Jolaibari in the Santir Bazar subdivision and Amarpur and Karbook in the Jatanbari subdivision were selected for the survey. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and observations were made during the field visit. The Forest Department facilitated the consultation of nine traditional healers along with other village elders. In the present investigation we have reported a total of 37 species of plants belonging to 32 families of 37 genera used by local communities to treat various animal ailments. These include 14 herb species, 9 trees, 7 climbers, 5 shrubs, 1 grass, and 1 epiphyte. The reported plants were used to treat majorly seven ailments viz., cuts and wounds, bone injury, skin infection, eye infection, dysentery, indigestion and constipation. The survey is preliminary in the area and needs further support to cover other areas occupied by tribal communities.

Mycetoma is chronic granulomatous infection of skin and subcutaneous tissue caused by both bacteria and fungi. We report a case of mycetoma caused by Scedosporium apiospermum in the right foot of a 45-year-old farmer in north India. The patient had a history of trauma in the sole of the right foot followed by discharge of white granules along with proximal progression. Scedosporium apiospermum was identified based on colony characteristics and microscopic features on slide culture. Mycetoma is a progressive disease. Foot is commonly affected in persons who walk barefoot, especially in south India. Untreated mycetoma progress and involve the underlying fasciae and tissues along with bones often resulting in loss of limb. By prompt and reliable diagnosis with corresponding antimicrobial administration, we can prevent further progression and limb disability.

Pandrug resistant Pseudomonas keratitis is an emerging cause of bacterial keratitis challenging clinicians for prompt and prudent treatment to avoid disaster of loss of eye. We report two cases of pandrug resistant keratitis following penetrating keratitis caused by Pseudomonas spp. It was only after a detailed laboratory characterization of the isolates that revealed their pandrug resistant character and helped in successful management of the condition.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i1.8366 Asian Journal of Medical Science Vol.5(1) 2014 pp.70-72

Introduction: Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT) infections are among the most frequent infections in HIV/AIDS patients. The intestinal opportunistic parasitic infections in HIV-infected subjects present most commonly as diarrhoea. A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of enteric parasitic infections in HIV infected patients with diarrhoea, with different levels of immunity. Methods: This study was carried out at the HIV Lab of the Microbiology Department of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan, between June–October 2009 among consecutively enrolled 75 HIV infected patients who presented with diarrhoea. Stool samples were collected and examined for enteric parasites by using microscopy and special staining methods. The CD4 + cell counts were estimated by using the FACS count system. Results: Intestinal parasitic pathogens were detected in 38.66% patients, Cryptosporidium species was the most common enteric opportunistic parasite which accounted for 37.93 % of the total parasites, followed by Isospora belli 31.03 %. In the HIV infected patients with CD4 + counts of < 200 cells/µl, parasites were identified in 56.25 % patients and in HIV patients with CD4 + counts between 200-499 cells /µl, parasites could be identified in 27.5 % of the patients . No parasite was detected in the patients with CD4 + counts of >500 cells/ µl. Conclusion: Parasitic infections were detected in 38.66% HIV infected patients with diarrhoea and a low CD4 + count was significantly associated with opportunistic infections. Identification of the aetiological agent of diarrhoea in an HIV patient is very important, as it can help in the institution of the appropriate therapy and the reduction of the morbidity and the mortality in these patients.

Disagreement exists over the ability of different diagnostic tests to define obstruction, indications and timing of surgery and which patients will benefit from surgical intervention in antenatal hydronephrosis (ANH) due to ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). We try to find a way to predict which patients of ANH due to UPJO will eventually need surgery during conservative management.Prospective single centre study involving 122 renal units at a referral centre in India. Patients on conservative management were followed using a standard protocol and operated for pre-defined indications defining failure of conservative management. Patients who underwent surgery were compared with the non-operated group in terms of sex, side, baseline grade of hydronephrosis, maximum anterioposterior diameter on first postnatal ultrasound and differential renal function on first renal scan.A total of 109 renal units qualified for conservative management. Of those, 23.9% required operative intervention during follow-up. Median time to failure of conservative management was 37 weeks. The median follow-up of non-operated cases was 54 months. Univariate analysis revealed that society of fetal urology (SFU) grade of hydronephrosis, anteroposterior diameter (APD), cortical thickness (CT), and pre-operative differential renal function (DRF) had a significant association with surgery (P0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed APD and pre-operative DRF as the only independent predictors for requiring surgery, while CT and initial SFU grade of hydronephrosis were not. Receiver operating curve analysis showed that an APD of 24.3 mm could predict the need for surgery, with a sensitivity of 73.1% and a specificity of 88.0%.APD and DRF are the predictive factors for surgery. We stop short of recommending surgery only on the basis of APD. Instead we recommend that efforts be made to improve the specificity of this criterion, or by using APD in perspective with the differential renal function. We can reduce the burden of investigations in those with APD24 mm while those with APD24 mm can be more comprehensively monitored.

The preparation and characterization of the new discontinuous ferric spin-crossover complex (Fe(HL)/sub 2/)Cl and the hydrated low-spin form of the complex (Fe(HL)/sub 2/)Cl/center dot/2H/sub 2/O are reported. In these complexes HL/sup /minus// is the deprotonated form of pyridoxal thiosemicarbazone (H/sub 2/L) acting as an ONS tridentate ligand. The magnetic moments for the spin-crossover complex show a thermal hysteresis, where with sample cooling the transition temperature is 245 K and with sample heating it is 256 K. Variable-temperature /sup 57/Fe Moessbauer and EPR data also provide evidence for the presence of a first-order phase transition in this complex. It is most likely that the cooperative (first-order) nature of this transition is due to the extended coupling of ferric complexes through intermolecular hydrogen-bonding interactions. EPR spectra of the two complexes in this study show that both have a single occupied d/sub xy/ orbital in the ground Kramers doublet. 39 refs., 3 figs., 2 tabs..