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Acacia catechu Willd. is a plant diffused in India and other Asian countries, where it is used as a traditional medicine for the treatment of several ailments including diarrhea, one of the most common pathologies worldwide. In this study, we determined the chemical composition of Acacia catechu Willd. extract (AC) and evaluated its effect on spontaneous and induced contractility in isolated guinea pig ileum and proximal colon. Preliminary data about its antimicrobial effect against some pathogen agents versus some microbiota intestinal strain have been also reported. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of catechins, such as (−)-Epicatechin and (+)-Catechin. AC extract reduced frequency and amplitude of colon smooth muscle spontaneous contractility, in a concentration-dependent manner. A weaker effect of the extract was exerted toward ileum smooth muscle spontaneous contractility. The observed calcium antagonistic effect was more potent in proximal colon than in ileum. The extract showed a noncompetitive reversible antagonism to carbachol, both in proximal colon and ileum, with a higher potency in proximal colon. The antimicrobial effects of AC extract were observed toward Campylobacter jejuni, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp., while Bifido and Lactobacillus were not affected by treatment. These effects, however, occurred at concentrations fivefold higher than those inhibiting ileum and colon contractility. In conclusion, our results suggest that AC affects intestinal contractility without affecting intestinal bacterial flora and this may result in clinical benefits in patients suffering from nonbacterial diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous extract of C. collinus leaves inhibited norepinephrine induced contraction in guinea pig vas deferens and aortic strip in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibition of acetylcholine induced contraction in ileum was dose independent. C. collinus extract per se had no effect on isolated guinea pig vas deferens and aortic strip, but inhibited norepinephrine induced contraction in a dose-dependent manner probably by its antagonist action on alpha-adrenergic receptor. It had inconsistent effect on guinea pig ileum in vitro preparation.

Seven new withanolide glycosides called withanosides I, II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII were isolated from an Indian natural medicine, Ashwagandha, the roots of Indian Withania somnifera DUNAL. (Solanaceae), together with four known compounds, withaferin A, 5 alpha,20 alpha(F)(R)-dihydroxy-6 alpha,7 alpha-epoxy-1-oxowitha-2,24-dienolide, physagulin D, and coagulin Q. The structures of withanosides I, II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII were determined based on chemical and physicochemical evidence. Principal constituents, withanoside VI (10 and 30 microM) and withaferin A (10 microM), attenuated the tachyphylaxis to clonidine on electrically stimulated guinea-pig ileum in vitro.

A series of studies has been undertaken by the Tuberculosis Chemotherapy Centre Madras, with the ultimate object of finding out whether differences in the virulence of the tubercle bacilli isolated from Indian tuberculous patients before the start of chemotherapy are related to the severity of the patients' disease and to the subsequent response to treatment. This paper-the second in the series-presents the results of a comparative investigation of the virulence in the guinea-pig of tubercle bacilli obtained from Indian and from British tuberculous patients before treatment. In this investigation, which was carried out at the Centre and at the Microbiological Research Establishment, Porton, England, the virulence of the Indian and the British cultures was assessed by guinea-pig mortality, by the "root-index of virulence" (based on the post-mortem tuberculous disease score and the survival period of the animal), and by the results of spleen culture. The Indian cultures were found, on the average, to be less virulent and to show a w der range of virulence than the British cultures, both in the Porton and in the Madras series of experiments. A further indication of the heterogeneity of the Indian tubercle bacilli was provided by the results of tuberculin tests: whereas the British cultures appeared to be homogeneous in their ability to induce tuberculin allergy in the guinea-pig, the Indian cultures showed considerable variation in this respect.

In order to find out whether chemotherapy with isoniazid affects the virulence in the guinea-pig of tubercle bacilli that do not develop resistance to the drug, virulence tests were carried out on isoniazid-sensitive cultures obtained from 20 South Indian tuberculous patients before treatment and after three months of chemotherapy with isoniazid. No significant difference in virulence was observed between the cultures obtained on admission to treatment and those obtained after three months of chemotherapy. This is a finding with important implications for large-scale surveys of the distribution of attenuated strains of tubercle bacilli from untreated patients in India and other countries. Detailed and repeated inquiries as to previous chemotherapy are not important in such surveys, provided that sensitivity tests are done on all the cultures.

This is the last of a series of three reports from the Tuberculosis Chemotherapy Centre Madras, on a study undertaken with the object of finding out whether differences in the virulence in the guinea-pig of tubercle bacilli isolated from South Indian tuberculous patients before the start of chemotherapy are related to the severity of the patients' disease on admission to treatment and to the subsequent response to chemotherapy. The 281 patients in this study were drawn from the patients admitted to a 1-year comparison of four domiciliary chemotherapeutic regimens: (a) 3.9-5.5 mg/kg isoniazid plus 0.2-0.3 g/kg sodium PAS daily, divided into two doses (PH series); (b) 7.8-9.6 mg/kg isoniazid alone daily in one dose (HI-1 series); (c) 7.8-9.6 mg/kg isoniazid alone daily, divided into two doses (HI-2 series); (d) 3.9-5.5 mg/kg isoniazid alone daily, divided into two doses (H series).No evidence was found of an association between the virulence of the organisms and any pretreatment condition of known prognostic importance. There was no association between pretreatment virulence and progress during treatment in the PH series (the most effective regimen). In the other series, however, the progress was more satisfactory in patients infected with organisms of low virulence than in those infected with organisms of high virulence, the association between virulence and progress attaining statistical significance in the combined HI-2 and H series (the least effective regimens) and only just failing to do so in the smaller HI-1 series.Possible explanations are put forward both for the absence of an association between virulence and severity of disease on admission and for the presence of an association between virulence and response in the patients treated with isoniazid alone.

A series of studies on the virulence in the guinea-pig of tubercle bacilli isolated before treatment from Indian tuberculous patients admitted to a controlled comparison of different regimens of domiciliary chemotherapy has recently been undertaken by the Tuberculosis Chemotherapy Centre, Madras. The main object of these studies was to determine whether the differences in virulence of the tubercle bacilli obtained from Indian patients before the start of chemotherapy were related to the severity or type of the patients' disease at that time and to the subsequent response to treatment. Before these relationships could be investigated, however, it was necessary to find out whether the results of the virulence tests, which were carried out over a period of two-and-a-half years at the Centre and at the Microbiological Research Establishment, Porton, England, could be considered as a unified whole-that is, as if they had all been done on the same day in the same laboratory.A proportion of the cultures was stored at - 20 degrees C for 44-78 weeks, but this did not affect their virulence. Inter-experimental variation was found to be small in the Porton series of tests and undetectable in the Madras series, and the results in the latter series could be successfully adjusted to those in the former by allowing for differences in the means and standard deviations of the distributions for the two series. The measure of virulence used was found to be reasonably acceptable for the analysis of variance technique. Suggestions are made as to ways of improving the efficiency of the experimental design in future studies.

Recent work carried out at the Tuberculosis Chemotherapy Centre, Madras, and at the Postgraduate Medical School of London has shown that isoniazid-sensitive cultures of tubercle bacilli obtained before the start of chemotherapy from South Indian patients with pulmonary tuberculosis are of lower average virulence than corresponding cultures from British patients. The present paper from the Centre extends these studies to areas outside India by comparing isoniazid-sensitive cultures from 81 Thai patients and 67 British patients for their guinea-pig virulence. As assessed by the amount of disease visible at post-mortem examination six weeks after intramuscular injection of the cultures, by the mortality of the guinea-pigs and by the results of spleen culture, the Thai cultures were less virulent than the British cultures. However, a retrospective comparison with the earlier studies suggests that the Thai cultures were intermediate in their virulence between British and Indian cultures. These findings contribute to the over-all study of the geographical distribution of attenuated tubercle bacilli.

Introduction: Hemagglutination (HA) and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assays are conventionally used for detection and identification of influenza viruses. HI assay is also used for detection of antibodies against influenza viruses. Primarily turkey or chicken erythrocytes [red blood cells (RBCs)] are used in these assays, as they are large, nucleated, and sediment fast, which makes it easy to determine the titer. Human influenza viruses agglutinate RBCs from chicken, human, and guinea pig, but not from horse. Human influenza viruses bind preferentially to sialic acid (SA) linked to galactose (Gal) by α 2, 6 linkage (SA α 2, 6-Gal), whereas avian influenza (AI) viruses bind preferentially to SA α 2, 3-Gal linkages. With this background, the present study was undertaken to study erythrocyte binding preferences and receptor specificities of AI viruses isolated from India. Materials and methods: A total of nine AI virus isolates (four subtypes) from India and three reference AI strains (three subtypes) were tested in HA and HI assays against mammalian and avian erythrocytes. The erythrocytes from turkey, chicken, goose, guinea pig and horse were used in the study. The receptor specificity determination assays were performed using goose and turkey RBCs. The amino acids present at 190 helix, 130 and 220 loops of the receptor-binding domain of the hemagglutinin protein were analyzed to correlate amino acid changes with the receptor specificity. Results: All tested highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses reacted with all five types of RBCs in the HA assay; AI H9N2 and H5N2 viruses did not react with horse RBCs. For H5N1 viruses guinea pig and goose RBCs were best for both HA and HI assays. For H9N2 viruses, guinea pig, fowl and turkey RBCs were suitable. For other tested AI subtypes, avian and guinea pig RBCs were better. Eight isolates of H5N1, one H4N6 and one H7N1 virus showed preference to avian sialic acid receptors. Importantly, two isolates of HPAI H5N1, H9N2 and H11N1 viruses showed receptor specificity preference to both avian and mammalian sialic acid (α-2, 3 and α-2, 6) receptors. Conclusions: Use of different types of RBCs resulted in titer variations in HA and HI assays. This showed that RBCs giving optimum HA and HI titers would increase sensitivity of detection and would be more appropriate for identification and antigenic analysis of AI viruses. Analysis of 16 amino acids in the receptor-binding domain of the hemagglutinin of HPAI H5N1 viruses revealed that the only variation observed was in S221P amino acid position. Two H5N1 viruses showed S221P amino acid change, out of which only one H5N1 virus showed preference to α 2, 6 sialic acid receptor. One H5N1 virus isolate with amino acid S at 221 position, showed preference to α 2,3 as well as α 2,6 sialic acid receptors. This indicated that factor(s) other than S221P mutation in the hemagglutinin are probably involved in determining receptor specificity of H5N1 viruses. This is the first report of receptor specificity and erythrocyte binding preferences of AI viruses from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: The sacred tree Peepal (Ficus religiosa family: Moraceae) has numerous therapeutic utility in folk medicine. Aim of the study: It has been reported to be used in ethno medical treatment of asthma and also in epilepsy due to its high serotonin content, which has been implicated in pathophysiology of asthma, this led us to carry out the present study. Materials and methods: The in vivo studies of histamine induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs and in vitro isolated guinea pig tracheal chain and ileum preparation. Results: Pre-treatment of guinea pigs with ketotifen (1mg/kg, p.o.) has significantly delayed the onset of histamine aerosol induced pre-convulsive dyspnea, compared with vehicle control (281.8a ±11.7 vs. 112.2±9.8). The administration of methanolic extract (125, 250 and 500mg/kg, p.o.) did not produced any significant effect on latency to develop histamine induced pre-convulsive dyspnea. On the other hand, methanolic extract of the fruits at the doses employed (i.e., 0.5, 1 and 2mg/ml) has significantly potentiate the EC50 doses of both histamine and acetylcholine in isolated guinea pig tracheal chain and ileum preparation. In addition, HPLC analysis of the methanolic extract showed the presence of high amounts of serotonin (2.89%, w/w). Conclusions: On the basis of data, it may be concluded that Ficus religiosa fruits have been found to be ineffective against histamine induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. In addition, methanolic extract of the fruits have shown to potentiate the bronchoconstriction induced by both histamine and acetylcholine on guinea pig tracheal chain preparation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pemphigus is an autoimmune blistering disorder characterized by the presence of intraepidermal blisters and erosions, primarily affecting the mucosa and/or skin. There are no established Indian guidelines for the management of pemphigus, and Western guidelines cannot be directly applied due to differences in clinicodemographic profiles, comorbidities, and resource limitations. These guidelines aim to provide Indian dermatologists with evidence-based and consensus-driven recommendations for the management of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceous (PF), taking into account the unique challenges posed by the Indian healthcare setting. The guidelines focus on the comprehensive management of PV and PF, addressing diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and follow-up. It is intended for dermatologists working in both outpatient and inpatient settings across India. The first draft of the guidelines was prepared by the writing group and then reviewed by 19 national experts in pemphigus management, including inputs from allied specialties. Areas with limited evidence or anticipated variation in recommendations were subjected to rounds of voting, with responses categorized as "strongly agree," "agree," "neutral," "disagree," or "strongly disagree." Suggestions were incorporated, and statements were revised until a mean agreement score of 4 or higher was reached across 16 key areas after four voting rounds. These guidelines offer a structured approach to managing pemphigus in India, addressing the need for region-specific recommendations that account for unique challenges such as resource constraints and specific comorbidities in Indian patients. They serve as a valuable resource for dermatologists treating pemphigus in a range of clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Sepsis is a clinical condition that results from infection and systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which can progress to severe sepsis and septic shock. This condition leads to myocardial dysfunction and increased mortality rates, particularly in cases of septic shock. Inotropic agents are beneficial in improving cardiac contractility and cardiac output in septic shock. Need for the study: It is important to address myocardial dysfunction in sepsis and septic shock, as these conditions significantly contribute to patient morbidity and mortality. Calcium desensitisation is a key factor in the pathophysiology of septic myocardial depression, leading to impaired cardiac function. Levosimendan, a novel calcium sensitiser, offers a promising therapeutic option due to its unique pharmacologic and biologic profile. By enhancing calcium sensitivity in cardiac myocytes, levosimendan may improve cardiac function without the detrimental side-effects associated with traditional inotropic agents. Aim: The research protocol was planned with an aim to analyse the impact of intravenous levosimendan on Right Ventricular (RV) dysfunction in patients with septic shock. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study aims to assess the effect of levosimendan on the improvement of RV dysfunction in patients with septic shock who are admitted to the intensive care unit of Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, DMIHER (DU) Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, Maharashtra, India from July 2023 to March 2025, 45 patients who meet the inclusion criteria will be recruited. Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) will be performed using standard measures to calculate RV function. Patients diagnosed with RV dysfunction will be administered levosimendan, followed by a re-evaluation of RV function at designated intervals. Statistical analysis will be conducted using R software, and a paired t-test will be employed to determine significant differences at pre- and post-intervention timelines for the outcome variables of echocardiographic parameters, including Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (TAPSE), EF, RV Fractional Area Change (FAC), and Tricuspid Regurgitant jet Velocity (TRV), at a 5% level of significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While Pegaspargase is an essential component of the treatment of acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) in children, it causes adverse events (AEs) that sometimes make full use impossible. Objective: The objective was to investigate the safety of Pegaspargase biosimilar in pediatric ALL patients undergoing treatment according to ICiCLe ALL-14 protocol. Method and Materials: A prospective study was carried out in a university teaching hospital located in the state of Maharashtra, India. Data on clinical factors and adverse reaction characteristics were gathered from hospital medical records. Suspected AEs were classified according to causality and severity. Results: During the study period, 72 children had 52 suspicions of AEs during treatment with biosimilar Pegaspargase. The odds ratio of 1.11 (95%CI, 0.41–2.98) suggested that males and females were both equally likely to experience adverse drug events, despite the fact that the frequency of suspected AEs was higher in boys (66%) than in girls (33%). None of the patients experienced allergic reactions. The high-risk category had the highest number of suspected AEs (56%), followed by intermediate risk (20%) and standard risk (20%). These patients showed a high frequency of suspected AEs during the induction phase (43%) followed by the consolidation phase (26%). Sixty percent of the reactions were classified as grade 1 or 2. ALL cell type (p = 0.02), risk category (p = 0.04) and length of hospitalization (p = 0.003) were significantly correlated with suspected AEs. Conclusion: Bio-similar Pegaspargase in combination with chemotherapy was safe and tolerable in the pediatric ALL patients treated according to ICiCLe ALL-14 protocol. Suspected AEs ranged from mild to moderate and hepatic failure and hyperglycemia being severe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Candida auris is a growing global threat; a pathogen associated with high mortality (up to 60%), multidrug resistance, the ability to spread from person-to-person and surface-to-person, presenting high risk for outbreaks in healthcare facilities. Ibrexafungerp is a novel IV/oral glucan synthase inhibitor (triterpenoid) antifungal with activity against Candida , Aspergillus, and Pneumocystis spp. in Phase 3 development. Methods In vitro studies tested ibrexafungerp against >100 clinical isolates of C. auris. Other in vitro studies evaluated the effects of ibrexafungerp against C. auris biofilms. In viv o activity against C. auris was evaluated using a disseminated murine model and a cutaneous infection guinea pig model. In humans, an ongoing open-label trial of ibrexafungerp for treatment of patients with infections caused by C. auris (the CARES study) has been initiated in the United States and India. Results In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that ibrexafungerp is active against C. auris , including MDR strains. The MIC mode for ibrexafungerp was 1 μg/mL and the MIC50 and MIC90 were 0.5 and 1 μg/mL, respectively. Many echinocandin-resistant C. auris isolates have shown susceptibility to ibrexafungerp. Furthermore, ibrexafungerp has been shown to reduce biofilm thickness. In animal models of C. auris infection, treatment with ibrexafungerp resulted in improved survival and reduced fungal burden in both the murine model of disseminated infection and the guinea pig model of cutaneous infection as compared with untreated controls. In humans, two patients with difficult to treat C. auris candidemias were enrolled in the CARES study and responded positively to oral ibrexafungerp with eradication of the infection. Conclusion These data demonstrate that ibrexafungerp possess potent in vitro and in vivo activity as well as promising clinical activity. Therefore, continued clinical evaluation of ibrexafungerp as an option to treat C. auris infections is warranted. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Melanocytes are cells in the skin, hair, and eyes that generate pigment called melanin, which is primarily responsible for the pigmentation of these structures. These melanocytes, known as the Cochlear Melanocyte, are also present in the human ears (especially in the cochlea) and play a significant role in fostering endocochlear potential and preventing the odds of hearing loss. The current study investigated the relationship of skin pigment with cochlear function through distortion product otoacoustic emission in Indian skin type. Methods: A total of 120 participants aged between 17 to 25 were included using a purposive sampling technique. The subjects were further grouped based on a questionnaire on Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype (FSP) developed by Thomas Fitzpatrick (1975) and categorized as type III- type VI suitable for Indian skin types. Along with routine audiometric evaluations, the cochlear functioning was assessed using distortion product otoacoustic emissions. The standard group research design was used, and as data was normally distributed, multivariate analysis of variance was used to compare across groups. Results: The results of multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) showed no significant differences across the four groups for both amplitude and the slope of distortion product otoacoustic emissions. Conclusion: The present study using otoacoustic emissions revealed that the skin pigmentation did not affect cochlear functioning in the Indian population (type III through type VI) as seen in type I and II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Protecting crops from various threats, including vermin, pests, animals and rodents, is essential for sustaining agriculture. In India, especially in regions like Rajasthan, animal attacks result in significant crop losses, up to 40%. This section underscores the importance of safeguarding crops against these threats. Methods: According to our sustainable agriculture assessment and cognition of the primary issue of the community that was conducted across multiple rural sites within the Sawai Madhupur district of Rajasthan from 2020 to 2023. This paper employs a comparative method to conduct a comprehensive review of animal-repellent systems, along with delving into interdisciplinary research in related fields to identify key factors influencing their effectiveness and proposes a novel holistic farm protection solution system. Result: The proposed system offers robust crop protection while aiding environmental conservation and preserving local wildlife in Rajasthan, India. This paper underscores the importance of adopting IoT-based technologies for sustainable agriculture. It is a valuable resource for researchers, agronomists and various agriculture stakeholders to implement these advancements. This system holds promise for enhancing crop security, minimizing resource waste and ensuring food chain stability for generations to come. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Saoner mine reclamation study conducted in Maharashtra, India, meticulously investigates the practicality and efficacy of ecological restoration initiatives post-mining operations. Employing multifaceted research approach, including field observations, interviews, and questionnaires, the study captures a diverse array of perspectives from stakeholders representing local communities, mining companies, regulatory bodies, and environmental organizations. Within this complexity, the research uncovers spectrum of viewpoints. Encouragingly, positive outcomes emerge from specific reclamation practices like revegetation and soil stabilization. However, substantial challenges linger in vital areas such as water management, soil quality restoration, and post-reclamation monitoring, demanding targeted interventions. Stakeholders' diverse concerns reflect varying priorities. Local communities express apprehension about the adequacy of reclamation efforts and potential health implications, underscoring immediate impact on their lives. Mining companies prioritize regulatory compliance and economic contributions, emphasizing their immediate obligations. Simultaneously, environmental organizations advocate for stringent monitoring and the adoption of more robust practices, reflecting long-term ecological perspective. The study suggests a holistic approach to mining, beyond regulatory compliance, involving integrated planning, ongoing monitoring, and stakeholder engagement. This approach can reduce the industry's environmental footprint, promote sustainable development, and foster harmony between mining activities and local communities, making it a crucial foundation for Saoner and other Indian mining regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anaesthetic sedatives are widely used for bronchoscopy and Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) to ensure patient cooperation and minimise patient discomfort. Dexmedetomidine is an α2 adrenergic agonist used for sedation. Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of nebulised dexmedetomidine in EBUS. Materials and Methods: In this randomised doubleblinded controlled study, conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology and Pulmonary Medicine at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India from 2020 to 2022, 52 patients aged between 18 and 70 years undergoing EBUS were included. Patients were randomly assigned to the study group (S) and the control group (C). Group C received nebulised lidocaine (2%) 10 mL for 10-15 minutes in a sitting position. Group S received nebulised lidocaine (2%) 8 mL + Dexmedetomidine 2 mL (1 mcg/kg) for 10-15 minutes in a sitting position. Haemodynamic parameters, cough severity scores, patient and operator satisfaction scores, Midazolam requirements, and any complications were recorded and compared. The data were analysed statistically using the Student's t-test and Chi-square test, whichever was feasible. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The demographic parameters including the mean age (years) of 46.3±14.01 in Group C vs. 44.5±14.35 in Group S, mean weight (kg) of 61.6±8.27 in Group C vs. 63.5±10.06 in Group S, and male/female ratio of 12/14 in Group C vs. 9/17 in Group S were comparable. Haemodynamic parameters were better postnebulisation in Group S compared to Group C. The authors observed that the incidence of coughing was significantly higher in Group C compared to Group S (73.1% vs. 46.2%). It was found that Group C had a significantly higher requirement for midazolam doses compared to Group S (53.8% vs. 19.2%). When the patient satisfaction score assessed on the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was analysed, it was found that Group S patients were highly satisfied compared to Group C patients, and the difference was highly significant (p-value <0.05). No drug or procedure-related complications were observed in the two groups. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that nebulised dexmedetomidine-lidocaine was well-tolerated during bronchoscopies under moderated sedation and was associated with stable Haemodynamics, decreased incidence of severe coughing, and a lower consumption of sedation drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 virus, the causative agent of COVID-19, has produced the largest pandemic in the 21st century, becoming a very serious health problem worldwide. To prevent COVID-19 disease and infection, a large number of vaccines have been developed and approved in record time, including new vaccines based on mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles. While mRNA-based vaccines have proven to be safe and effective, they are more expensive to produce compared to conventional vaccines. A special type of mRNA vaccine is based on self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) derived from the genome of RNA viruses, mainly alphaviruses. These saRNAs encode a viral replicase in addition to the antigen, usually the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The replicase can amplify the saRNA in transfected cells, potentially reducing the amount of RNA needed for vaccination and promoting interferon I responses that can enhance adaptive immunity. Preclinical studies with saRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines in diverse animal models have demonstrated the induction of robust protective immune responses, similar to conventional mRNA but at lower doses. Initial clinical trials have confirmed the safety and immunogenicity of saRNA-based vaccines in individuals that had previously received authorized COVID-19 vaccines. These findings have led to the recent approval of two of these vaccines by the national drug agencies of India and Japan, underscoring the promising potential of this technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Pistacia integerrima J.L. Stewart ex Brandis locally known as Karkatashringi is an important medicinal plant whose galls are valued in traditional medicine used in India for the treatment of asthma, chronic bronchitis, phthisis, diarrhea, fever, other ailments for the respiratory tract, and as antispasmodic, carminative, antiamoebic and anthelmintic. However, in vitro and in vivo investigations providing new insights into its pharmacological properties have not been thoroughly investigated yet. The present investigation aimed to elucidate the probable mechanism of antiasthmatic action of essential oil of Pistacia integerrima J.L. Stewart ex Brandis galls (EOPI). Methods: EOPI was tested using in vitro studies such as antioxidant activity, mast cell degranulation, angiogenesis, isolated guinea pig ileum preparation and soyabean lipoxidase enzyme activity. In vivo studies included lipopolysaccharide-induced bronchial inflammation in rats and airway hyperresponsiveness in ovalbumin in sensitized guinea pigs using spirometry. Results: EOPI (5–30µg/ml) inhibits 5-lipoxidase enzyme activity with IC50 of 19.71µg/ml and DPPH scavenging activity up to 100µg/ml with maximum inhibition of 44.93±2.53% at 100µg/ml. Pre-treatment with EOPI inhibited erythropoietin-induced angiogenesis. It showed dose dependent (10, 30 and 100µg/ml) anti-allergic activity by inhibiting compound 48/80 induced mast cell degranulation to an extent 19.08±0.47%. The finding that essential oil induced inhibition of transient contraction of acetylcholine in calcium free medium, and relaxation of S-(-)-Bay 8644-precontracted isolated guinea pig ileum jointly suggests that the L-subtype Cav channel is involved in spasmolytic action of EOPI. Treatment with EOPI dose dependently (7.5, 15 and 30mg/kg i.p.) inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in total cell count, neutrophil count, nitrate–nitrite, total protein, albumin levels in bronchoalveolar fluid and myeloperoxidase levels in lung homogenates. Roflumilast was used as a standard. EOPI reduced the respiratory flow due to gasping in ovalbumin sensitized guinea pigs. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the effectiveness of essential oil of Pistacia integerrima J.L. Stewart ex Brandis galls in bronchial asthma possibly related to its ability to inhibit L-subtype Cav channel, mast cell stabilization, antioxidant, angiostatic and through inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase enzyme. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Cutaneous tuberculosis is an important infectious public health problem in India. The incidence has dropped from 2% to 0.1%, making it a rare finding in clinical settings. Due to paucibacillary character of this illness and its resemblance to other dermatoses, making it challenging to diagnose. The present study was done to report the various clinical types of cutaneous tuberculosis. Material and Methods: All the clinically suspected cases of cutaneous tuberculosis attending the dermatology OPD of our tertiary care hospital during a period of one year (May 2022 to May 2023) were enrolled in the study. They were subjected to routine blood tests, Chest X-ray, HIV, Mantoux test and skin biopsy done for confirmation. Results: During a study period of 12 months, a total of 25 patients were diagnosed as cutaneous tuberculosis. Male to Female ratio was 1.3:1. Commonest type was Lupus vulgaris (48%) followed by Scrofuloderma (20%), Tuberculosis verrucosa cutis (8%), Erythema nodosum (8%), Papulonecrotic tuberculid (8%), Erythema induratum of Bazin (4%), Lichen scrofulosorum (4%). In this study most cases are middle aged adults, the youngest was 13-year-old girl, oldest was 70-year-old male. Commonest site were limbs followed by trunk. One patient had pulmonary tuberculosis. All patients were responded to standard antitubercular treatment. Conclusion: Cutaneous tuberculosis remains an important medical problem despite the development of extremely potent anti-tuberculous medications. This case study demonstrates the importance of diagnosing a case of cutaneous tuberculosis in patients presenting with a suspicious skin lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycobacterium indicus pranii (MIP), previously called Mw vaccine, is a one-of-a-kind immunomodulatory vaccine. It was indigenously developed in India for use in leprosy. MIP is heat-killed Mycobacterium w, which is a non-pathogenic atypical mycobacterium belonging to Class IV of Runyon classification. It shares epitopes with Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which forms the rationale behind its use in leprosy and tuberculosis. MIP activates both innate and acquired immunity. It induces a Th1 and Th17 immune response along with downregulation of Th2 pathway and activates macrophages and dendritic cells. MIP vaccine is safe with adverse effects such as local site erythema, swelling, and rarely fever and other systemic reactions. Apart from leprosy, MIP has been used in dermatological diseases such as warts and psoriasis. Clinical trials have evaluated the efficacy of MIP in a plenitude of non-dermatological conditions such as category II tuberculosis, Gram-negative sepsis, non-small cell lung cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and very recently, coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). In vitro and animal studies have also demonstrated its utility in leishmaniasis, melanoma, and as a vaccine for the prevention of pregnancy. The PubMed database was searched using "Mycobacterium indicus pranii, MIP, Mycobacterium w" as the keyword in title. This comprehensive review provides useful information for healthcare professionals about immunotherapeutic potential of MIP vaccine, its composition, dosing schedule, administration, and side effects besides its efficacy in various indications other than leprosy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Advances in patient treatment depend heavily on clinical trials (CTs). Patient volunteers for CT are tougher to recruit and retain. In order to administer CTs effectively, it is necessary to comprehend how the public views and perceives participating in them. The study assessed the perception and attitudes of patients and bystanders toward CTs in India. Methods: This was a multi-centric, cross-sectional study among patients and bystanders using a questionnaire that consisted of socio-demographic characteristics and questions on knowledge and attitude toward participation in CTs. The minimum sample size estimated for the survey was 750. Results: A total of 1260 respondents (patients and bystanders) had participated in the survey. 42% of total respondents were aware about CTs. Unawareness regarding (i) voluntary power of an individual to participate in a CT (only 47%), (ii) entitled benefits of free treatment and medical insurance during enrolment in a CT (only 47%), and (iii) only 16% of the respondents knew involvement of human subjects in CT were the major highlights among those who had prior knowledge about CTs. Education was the most pervasive factor in shaping positive perception among the respondents. Occupation was another ubiquitous factor in shaping their perception regarding CTs. Conclusion: The majority of respondents were not aware of CTs. The major concerns observed were time consumption and harmful nature of CTs that influenced their unwillingness to participate in CTs. Initiatives such as awareness campaigns and survey assessments that would result in scientifically effective health service policies would be strategic methods to enhance CT participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) is the most important viral pathogen of equines, causing respiratory illness, abortion, neonatal foal mortality and neurologic disorders. Large numbers of commercial EHV-1 vaccines are available to protect equines from the disease, but they provide only partial protection. Despite immunization with inactivated and modified live virus vaccine, mares show abortions. Present study was aimed to investigate the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of EHV-1 recombinant glycoprotein B (rgB) and gB expressing plasmid DNA against EHV-1 infection in BALB/c mice model. Methods: About 3-4 weeks old 225 female BALB/c mice were selected for the comparative study of immunization followed by challenged with EHV-1/India/Tohana/96-2 strain virus in 5 different groups of 45 animals each. Result: Following immunization, rgB vaccinated mice showed optimal stimulation of EHV-1 gB specific cell mediated and humoral mediated immunity (HMI and CMI). The gB expressing plasmid DNA vaccinated mice developed only CMI while inactivated whole virus vaccinated mice had only HMI. Upon EHV-1 challenge, all infected mice displayed variable levels of clinical signs with changes in body weight, however, vaccinated mice showed very rapid recovery with optimal protection. Positive control group mice showed severe pulmonary lesions along with persistence virus infection till 5 days post challenge (dpc) whereas vaccinated mice had less pulmonary lesion only up to 3 dpc. Minimal lung lesions and early virus clearance was observed in the rgB immunized mice in comparison to the gB plasmid DNA and inactivated EHV-1 vaccine immunized mice. It has been concluded that immunization with rgB elicits optimum protective immune response against EHV-1 infection in mice model. The rgB could be a potential vaccine candidate against EHV-1 infection in equine in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron is an important nutrient and it plays a pivotal role in myelin formation and neurotransmitter synthesis, thus contributing to normal neurological activity. Ferritin is a reliable indicator of the tissue iron stores and in-utero stores can be well measured by cord ferritin levels. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of umbilical cord ferritin levels (CFL) on the brain stem evoked response audiometry (BERA) This prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care centre of North India with a sample size of 100 inborn neonates. After evaluation of the umbilical cord ferritin levels the study cohort was divided into Group A(UCF<75ng/ml) and Group B(UCF>75ng/dl). All subjects were subjected to BERA. A detailed analysis of CFL and BERA was done and statistically analysed. Neonates in group B had significantly prolonged absolute peak latency of wave I, III and V and interpeak latency of wave III-V when compared to group A. The Pearson correlation also showed negative correlation of CFL with absolute peak latency of wave I, III, and V and interpeak latency of wave III-V. Among the maternal and neonatal variables, highly significant correlation was noted between absolute latency of wave I, III and V, CFL and cord hematocrit. The Pearson correlation showed negative correlation of absolute peak latency of wave I, III and V with maternal haemoglobin (Hb), neonatal birth weight, CFL,s and cord hematocrit values. A negative Pearson correlation was noted between interpeak latency of wave III-V with neonatal birth weight and cord hematocrit level, interpeak latency of wave I-V with neonatal birth weight and between interpeak latency of wave I-III with cord hematocrit values. CFL's significantly affect the absolute peak latency of wave I, III and V and it also affects the interpeak latency of wave III-V. This may be attributed to slow conduction time secondary to altered myelination. CFL's should be considered as a routine protocol in neonates to detect early compromises in the process of myelination and brain maturation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hair dye is a concoction of various ingredients that can result in allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) which is a common problem encountered by dermatologists. Objectives: To find out the presence of potent contact sensitizers in commercially available hair dyes in Puducherry, a union territory in South India, and to compare the findings with similar studies conducted in different countries. Methods: Ingredients labels of 159 hair dye products from 30 brands that were manufactured and marketed in India screened for the presence of contact sensitizers. Results: A total of 25 potent contact sensitizers were found in 159 hair dye products. p‐Phenylenediamine and resorcinol were the most frequent contact sensitizer found in the study. The mean contact sensitizer concentration in a single hair dye product is 3.72 ± 1.81. The number of potent contact sensitizers in individual hair dye products ranged from 1 to 10. Conclusion: We observed that most of the consumer‐available hair dyes contain multiple contact sensitizers. Also, an inadequacy in mentioning the p‐Phenylenediamine content, and appropriate warning contents regarding hair dye use were not mentioned in the cartons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis verrucosa cutis (TBVC) is an exogenous form of cutaneous tuberculosis (TB) due to accidental inoculation of mycobacterium TB from tubercular material like sputum into the exposed areas of skin with the minor traumatic lesion of a previously infected individual with intact cell-mediated immunity. In India, TBVC often occurs in the lower extremities and involvement of the elbow is unusual. Excellent response to anti-TB treatment (ATT) is the characteristic feature of TBVC. A case of TBVC at the left elbow in a 10-year-old boy with partial resolution at the end of ATT is reported. Chronicity and the initial size of skin lesion may be one of the reasons for the incomplete resolution of TBVC even after short-course chemotherapy with daily isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol and pyrazinamide for the first 2 months followed by 4 months of daily isoniazid and rifampicin in some cases. Topical application of a keratolytic drug like 3% salicylic acid may be effective in further thinning of residual lesions of TBVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There are different types of arthritis seen in elderly patients, of which Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), which is derived from blood, contains many growth factors. Platelet count and indices in PRP has association with pain score of OA, further study will prove its significance. Aim: To find the correlation of platelet parameters like platelet count, Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) and Plateletcrit (PCT) with clinical OA improvement score in PRP-treated patients of OA. Materials and Methods: The longitudinal study was done in the Department of Pathology, PDU Civil Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, India, from January 2021 to October 2021. Study was conducted on 40 patients, who were administered intra-articular injection of PRP prepared using double spin method. It was injected at the site of maximum pain in the knee joint. Platelet count, MPV and PCT were noted in the pre and post intervention. Patients were followed-up at two months and six months. The data was analysed using Friedman Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Pearson's correlation test. Results: The mean age of patients was 58.57±4.95 years and there were 26 (65%) females and 14 (35%) males. Increase in platelet count, MPV, PCT in PRP prepared by double spin method and improvement in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (Before-8.38±0.63; After-4.28±0.85), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) (Before-63.30±4.99; After-43.67±5.22) and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) (Before-45.04±6.06; After-66.14±5.78) score were found to be statistically significant. Correlation of platelet parameters WOMAC with Platelet count (p-value=0.052, R-value=-0.310), VAS with MPV (p-value=0.005, R-value=0.436) and IKDC with PCT (p-value=0.032, R-value=0.339) were also statistically significant at six months follow-up. Conclusion: Single dose intra-articular injection PRP in OA knee with KL Grade 1 and 2 is valuable, efficient and costeffective treatment to reduce or delay in knee replacement. The study showed the significant correlation of platelet parameters with OA improvement scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with its phytochemical and pharmacological capabilities, polyherbal preparations have been utilized everywhere in the entire globe. Polyherbal treatment or herb-herb combo is yet another term for it. This study compiles a list of commercially and non-commercial polyherbal compositions from everywhere in the globe, which dissolve quickly without the use of water. These tablets dissolve and/or disintegrate quickly in the mouth. FDTs are easy to create and give, have no negative impacts, as well as provide an immediate release, and improve bioavailability, resulting in better patient satisfaction. For juvenile, elderly, and immobile patients, fast disintegrating tablets have been designed. FDTs can be made using a range of methodologies. Herbal medications account for a significant portion of India's legally acknowledged healthcare system. Because of the formulation's acceptance and use, many FDT techniques have been proposed. All of the important aspects of polyherbal formulation are described in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Withania somnifera L. Dunal (Ashwagandha), a key medicinal plant native to India, is used globally to manage various ailments. This review focuses on the traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological advances of its plant-derived constituents. It has been reported that at least 62 crucial and 48 inferior primary and secondary metabolites are present in the W. somnifera leaves, and 29 among these found in its roots and leaves are chiefly steroidal compounds, steroidal lactones, alkaloids, amino acids, etc. In addition, the whole shrub parts possess various medicinal activities such as anti-leukotriene, antineoplastic, analgesic, anti-oxidant, immunostimulatory, and rejuvenating properties, mainly observed by in vitro demonstration. However, the course of its medical use remains unknown. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of W. somnifera, which will be useful for mechanism studies and potential medical applications of W. somnifera, as well as for the development of a rational quality control system for W. somnifera as a therapeutic material in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: it is widely assumed that individuals with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection remain at lifelong risk of tuberculosis (TB) disease. However, there is substantial evidence that self-clearance of Mtb infection can occur. We infer a curve of self-clearance by time since infection and explore its implications for TB epidemiology. Methods and findings: data for self-clearance were inferred using post-mortem and tuberculin-skin-test reversion studies. A cohort model allowing for self-clearance was fitted in a Bayesian framework before estimating the lifetime risk of TB disease and the population infected with Mtb in India, China and Japan in 2019. We estimated that 24.4% (17.8–32.6%, 95% uncertainty interval (UI)) of individuals self-clear within 10 years of infection, and 73.1% (64.6–81.7%) over a lifetime. The lifetime risk of TB disease was 17.0% (10.9–22.5%), compared to 12.6% (10.1–15.0%) assuming lifelong infection. The population at risk of TB disease in India, China and Japan was 35–80% (95% UI) smaller in the self-clearance scenario. Conclusions: the population with a viable Mtb infection may be markedly smaller than generally assumed, with such individuals at greater risk of TB disease. The ability to identify these individuals could dramatically improve the targeting of preventive programmes and inform TB vaccine development, bringing TB elimination within reach of feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shock is a severe, life-threatening medical condition with a high mortality rate worldwide. All four major categories of shock (along with their various subtypes)—hypovolemic, distributive, cardiogenic, and obstructive, involve a dramatic mismatch between oxygen supply and demand, and share standard features of decreased cardiac output, reduced blood pressure, and overall hypoperfusion. Immediate and appropriate intervention is required regardless of shock type, as a delay can result in cellular dysfunction, irreversible multiple organ failure, and death. Studies have shown that dysfunction and downregulation of adrenergic receptors (ARs) are often implicated in these shock conditions; for example, their density is shown to be decreased in hypovolemic and cardiogenic shock, while their reduced signaling in the brain and vasculature decrease blood perfusion and oxygen supply. There are two main categories of ARs, α, and β, each with its subtypes and distributions. Our group has demonstrated that a dose of .02 mg/kg body wt of centhaquine (CQ) specifically activates α2B ARs on venous circulation along with the central α2A ARs after hypovolemic/hemorrhagic shock. Activating these receptors by CQ increases cardiac output (CO) and reduces systemic vascular resistance (SVR), with a net increase in blood pressure and tissue perfusion. The clinical trials of CQ conducted by Pharmazz Inc. in India have demonstrated significantly improved survival in shock patients. CQ improved blood pressure and shock index, indicating better blood circulation, and reduced lactate levels in the blood compared to in-use standard resuscitative agents. After successful clinical trials, CQ is being marketed as a drug (Lyfaquin®) for hypovolemic/ hemorrhagic shock in India, and United States FDA has approved the phase III IND application. It is anticipated that the phase III trial in the United States will begin in 2023. Thus, we have demonstrated that α2 ARs could be suitable targets for treating or managing hypovolemic/hemorrhagic shock. Further understanding of ARs in shock would help find new potential pharmacological targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is usually seen in immunosuppressed conditions like uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM). The pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (Sars-CoV-2) and its associated immunosuppression and indiscriminate use of corticosteroids emerged as a new risk factor for ROCM during its' second wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in India. The lack of standardized management protocol for ROCM needs the attention of the ophthalmic community. COVID-19-associated risk factors have been linked to the pathogenesis of ROCM, which reached epidemic proportions during India's second wave of the pandemic. The aim of the present study was to document cases of ROCM and to evaluate risk factors, including co-morbidities, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, management, and outcome at tertiary care centers during the Sars-CoV-2 (2021) pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS: It is a retrospective study of 42 patients of biopsy-proven mucormycosis. These patients' records were reviewed from hospital data. All patients were subjected to complete ophthalmological, ortorhino-laringological examination, and imaging studies. The orbital staging was done. Each case was treated by a multidisciplinary approach with functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and intravenous (i.v.) amphotericin B (AMB). Retrobulbar liposomal AMB and exenteration were performed whenever indicated. Statistical analysis was done using the Chi square test. A p-value = 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Total 42 patients of ROCM were documented. The mean age was 50.48 years, with a male preponderance (82.9%). 99.8% of patients had diabetes (39 patients) and all patients were COVID-19-positive. Concurrent steroid use was seen in 83.3% where 73.1% of patients had received oxygen support during COVID-19 infection. The most common ophthalmologic presentation was orbital/facial oedema (33) and pain, diminution of vision (24), and ophthalmoplegia (26). Direct nasal endoscopy and biopsy were done to establish a diagnosis. All patients were treated with FESS and i.v. AMB. Retrobulbar AMB was given to 11 patients. Exenteration was done in (n = 4) 10.5% of cases. 41 patients recovered, and one patient died CONCLUSION: The most significant predisposing factors for developing COVID-19-associated ROCM are corticosteroids and DM. Patients with COVID-19 must be followed up even after recovery. For a favorable outcome with lower mortality in COVID-19 recovered patients, we must have a high index of clinical suspicion with awareness of red flag signs and make a timely diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sedative agents used in bronchoscopy require trained personnel to administer and monitor the patient. This increases the procedure cost, duration, and inpatient stay. Inhalational administration of sedative agents can be a practical solution to the issue. Dexmedetomidine in the inhalational form could give results similar to the intravenous form without significant adverse events., Materials and Methods: The study is prospective, randomized, and double-blinded study. Patients needing bronchoscopy were randomized to receive the nebulized form of either dexmedetomidine or saline (0.9%) before bronchoscopy. The study parameters are assessed and recorded before, during, and after bronchoscopy. Data collected are analyzed using the SPSS software., Discussion: The side effects limit using commonly administered sedation agents in bronchoscopy, such as midazolam, fentanyl, and dexmedetomidine. The nebulized dexmedetomidine is safe with proven efficacy when compared to the placebo. Proceduralist-administered conscious sedation reduces the overall cost and shortens inpatient stays. Attenuation of hemodynamic parameters by dexmedetomidine could be an advantage for the physician in reducing an untoward cardiac event., Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine in the nebulized form improves the comfort of patients during the procedure. It blunts the pressure response during bronchoscopy and could be a safer and cost-effective agent in its nebulized form for conscious sedation in bronchoscopy. The study is approved by the institutional ethics committee (IEC KMC MLR 10-2021-310)., (Copyright © 2024 Copyright: © 2024 Indian Journal of Pharmacology.)

Herbal products have been used in traditional systems of medicine and by ethnic healers for ages to treat various diseases. Currently, it is estimated that about 80% of people worldwide use herbal traditional medicines against various ailments, partly due to easy accessibility and low cost, and the lower side effects they pose. Bergenia ligulata, a herb ranging from the Himalayas to the foothills, including the north-eastern states of India, has traditionally been used as a remedy against various diseases, most prominently kidney stones. The medicinal properties of B. ligulata have been attributed to bergenin, its most potent bioactive component. Apart from bergenin, the other compounds available in B. ligulata are arbutin, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid, catechin, ferulic acid, afzelechin, paashaanolactone, caryophyllene, 1,8-cineole, β-eudesmol, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, parasorbic acid, 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol, phytol, terpinen-4-ol, tannic acid, isovalaric acid, avicularin, quercetin, reynoutrin, and sitoinoside I. This review summarizes various medicinal properties of the herb, along with providing deep insight into its bioactive molecules and their potential roles in the amelioration of human ailments. Additionally, the possible mechanism(s) of action of the herb's anti-urolithiatic, antioxidative, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties are discussed. This comprehensive documentation will help researchers to better understand the medicinal uses of the herb. Further studies on B. ligulata can lead to the discovery of new drug(s) and therapeutics for various ailments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This exploratory Phase 2 clinical trial is the first determining safety and efficacy of oral D-methionine (D-met) in reducing cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. Design: Randomised parallel double-blind placebo-controlled exploratory Phase 2 study. Study samples: Fifty adult cancer patients received oral D-met or placebo before each cisplatin dose. Physical examination, blood collection and audiometry occurred at baseline and subsequent visits plus post-treatment audiometry. After attrition, final analysis included 27 patients. Results: Significant treatment group by ear and time (baseline vs. post-treatment) interactions occurred at 10 kHz and 11.2 kHz. Placebo and D-met groups differed in threshold shift for left ear at 11.2 kHz (mean difference = 22.97 dB [9.59, 36.35]). Averaging across ears, placebo group showed significant threshold shifts from baseline to post-treatment at 10 kHz (mean shift= −13.65 dB [−21.32,−5.98]), 11.2 kHz (−16.15 dB [−25.19,−7.12]), and 12.5 kHz (−11.46 dB [−19.18,−3.74]) but not 8 kHz (−8.65 dB [−17.86, 0.55]). The D-met group showed no significant threshold shifts (8 kHz: −1.25 dB [−7.75, 5.25]; 10 kHz:−3.93 dB [−8.89, 1.03]; 11.2 kHz:−4.82 dB [−11.21, 1.57]; 12.5 kHz:−3.68 dB [−11.57, 4.21]). Side effects did not significantly differ between groups. Conclusion: Oral D-met reduces cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a surveillance study to monitor porcine epidemic diarrohoea virus and transmissible gastroenteritis virus in India, a total of 1043 swine samples including faeces (n = 264) and clotted blood (n = 779) were collected and tested. Five samples (four faecal and one serum) showed cytopathic effects in Vero cells. Transmission electron microscopy of infectious cell supernatant revealed the presence of two types of virions. Next-generation sequencing (de novo) allowed the complete genome sequence of mammalian orthorubulavirus 5 (MRuV5; 15246 bp) and that of all 10 gene segments of mammalian orthoreovirus to be determined. Genetic analysis of MRuV5 revealed grouping of the Indian MRuV5 with isolates from various mammalian species in South Korea and China, sharing more than 99% nucleotide sequence identity. The deduced amino acid sequences of the HN, NP, and F genes of MRuV5 isolates showed three (92L, 111R, 447H), two (86S, 121S), and two (139T, 246T) amino acid substitutions, respectively, compared to previously reported virus strains. Phylogenic analysis based on S1 gene sequences showed the Indian MRV isolates to be clustered in lineage IV of MRV type 3, with the highest nucleotide sequence identity (97.73%) to MRV3 strain ZJ2013, isolated from pigs in China. The protein encoded by the MRV3 S1 gene was found to contain the amino acid residues 198-204NLAIRLP, 249I, 340D, and 419E, which are known to be involved in sialic acid binding and neurotropism. This is the first report of co-isolation and whole-genomic characterisation of MRuV5 and MRV3 in domestic pigs in India. The present study lays a foundation for further surveillance studies and continuous monitoring of the emergence and spread of evolving viruses that might have pathogenic potential in animal and human hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The 3A region of foot-and-mouth disease virus has been implicated in host range and virulence. Here we analyzed the 3A region of serotype A virus in view of the emergence of a variant group in India with an amino acid deletion at an antigenically critical position of capsid protein, VP3. The 3A region exhibited extreme variability with 38% of the amino acid positions showing substitutions and the C-terminal third (127–151) region was most flexible. Genotype inclusive grouping of type A foot-and-mouth disease virus as observed in 1D region based phylogeny was much less apparent at 3A region possibly due to independent evolution of nonstructural and structural protein coding regions. Akin to the 1D region, the VP359-deletion group maintained its phylogenetic distinctness even at the 3A region and was found to be diverging with time. Twelve lineage specific signature amino acid residues, of which four were identified to be experiencing positive selection, indicates fixation of advantageous mutations in a lineage specific manner. Six positions, all located in the hypervariable C-terminal third, were identified to be under positive selection and were presumed to be imparting the virus certain advantage accounting for its adaptability to wide host spectrum and rapid dissemination. A significant change of Q44H was noted only in the older lineage (VIIb) of the deletion group at a position where Q44R mutation is associated with guinea pig adaptation. As this site has been detected to be under positive selection, such a lineage specific substitution is thought to have imparted certain temporary advantage to the virus during its possible adaptation in wild or some understudied domestic hosts and must not have seriously compromised fitness upon readaptation in bovines. A conserved hydrophobic transmembrane domain from position 59 to 76 could be predicted which possibly anchors 3A to intracellular membranes for successful interaction with RNA replication complex. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this article the author presents perspective on the history of researches about vitamin C in India. Vitamin C is remarkably the focus of various research because of its precise biological function especially its capability of curing several diseases. The researches were conducted to determine the specific medical use of vitamin C as well as its other capabilities.

Dehydration of the upper airways increases risks of respiratory diseases from COVID-19 to asthma and COPD. We find in human volunteer studies involving 464 human subjects in Germany, the US, and India that respiratory droplet generation increases by up to 4 orders of magnitude in dehydration-associated states of advanced age (n = 357), elevated BMI-age (n = 148), strenuous exercise (n = 20) and SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 87), and falls with hydration of the nose, larynx and trachea by calcium-rich hypertonic salts. We also find in a protocol of exercise-induced airway dehydration that hydration of the airways by calcium-rich salts increases oxygenation relative to a non-treatment control (P < 0.05). In a random control study of COVID-19 positive subjects (n = 40), thrice-a-day delivery of the calcium-rich hypertonic salts (active) suppressed respiratory droplet generation by 51% ± 11% and increased oxygen saturation over three days of treatment by 48.08% ± 9.61% (P < 0.001), while no changes were observed in the nasal-saline control group. Self-reported symptoms significantly declined in the active group and did not decline in the control group. Hydration of the upper airways appears promising as a non-drug approach for reducing risks of respiratory diseases such as COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historically, mercury and mercury-containing preparations have been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and applied in many clinical practices mainly in the form of mercury sulfides. The clinical application, toxicity manifestations, and symptoms of these preparations largely depend on the route of administration and the dosage form. Commonly used mercury-containing medicinal materials and preparations in traditional Chinese medicine include Cinnabar, an excellent medicine for tranquilizing the nerves; Hongsheng Dan and Baijiang Dan, which have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, promotion of tissue repair and regeneration and other pharmacological effects. Tibetan medicine commonly uses Zaotai and Qishiwei Zhenzhu pills, which have pharmacological effects such as sedation, anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsant, and improvement of cerebral apoplexy. Menggen Wusu Shibawei pills, commonly used in Mongolian traditional medicine, have the muscle growth and astringent effects. In India and Europe, mercury is often used for treating syphilis. This article summarizes the history, clinical application, pharmacology, toxicology, and pharmacokinetics of mercury and mercury-containing preparations in traditional medicines. In terms of clinical application, it provides suggestions for the rational use and safety of mercury-containing drugs in clinical practices and in public health issues. It will further provide a reference for formulation strategies related to mercury risk assessment and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay argues that the racialized geopolitics of the rhesus monkey trade conditioned the trajectory of tissue culture in polio research. Rhesus monkeys from north India were important experimental organisms in the American "war against polio" between the 1930s and 1950s. During this period, the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis (NFIP) expended considerable effort to secure the nonhuman primate for researchers' changing experimental agendas. The NFIP drew on transnational networks to export hundreds of thousands of rhesus monkeys from colonial and later postcolonial India amid the geopolitical upheavals of World War II, the 1947 Partition, and the Cold War. In this essay, I trace how NFIP officials' anxieties about the geopolitics of the monkey trade configured research imperatives in the war against polio. I show how their anxieties more specifically shaped investment in tissue culture techniques as a possible means of obviating dependence on the market in monkeys. I do so by offering a genealogy of the contingent convergence between the use of rhesus monkeys and HeLa cell cultures in the 1954 Salk vaccine trial evaluation. Through this genealogy, I emphasize the geopolitical dimensions of the search for the "right" experimental organisms, tissues, and cells for the "job" of scientific research. The technical transformation of polio research, I argue, relied on the convergence of disparate, racialized biomedical economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kupipakwa Rasayanas are unique, widely prescribed, and highly therapeutic pharmaceutical preparations in ayurvedic therapeutics prepared in Kachkupi (glass bottle). Sameera Pannaga Rasa (SPR) is one such an arsenical compound formulation first cited in Rasa Chandanshu classic. It contains Parada (Hg), Gandhaka (S), Somala (As2O3 ), Haratala (As2S3 ), and Manahshila (As2S2 ) as integral components. Much diversity was seen in Rasa classics regarding its ingredients and duration of heating required for its preparation. Considering this, many studies have been carried out at different centers of India. The aim of the present study was to compile such available research works and relevant information from different Rasa classics and published literature from different databases to provide brief information about pharmaceutical, analytical, pharmacological, and clinical studies. Screening of literature revealed that Manahshila is not an ingredient of SPR in Rasa Chandanshu but added in recent treatises such as Ayurveda Aushadhi Guna Dharma Shastra and Ayurvedic Formulary of India. Totally seven references are found pertaining preparation of Sameer Pannaga Rasa in ayurvedic classics. It is recommended in the management of Tamaka Shwasa (bronchial asthma), Sandhivata (osteoarthritis), Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis), neurological disorders, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]