Identification of genomic regions associated with early plant vigour in lentil (Lens culinaris)

Lentil is one of the most important food legume species, however its genetic and genomic resources remained largely uncharacterized and unexploited. In the past few years, a number of genetic maps have been constructed and marker resources have been developed in lentil. These resources could be exploited for understanding the extent and distribution of genetic variation in genus Lens and also for developing saturated and consensus genetic maps suitable for quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and marker-assisted selection. The present study aims to enrich polymerase chain reaction-based linkage map of F10 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) population of 94 individuals derived from cross WA8649090 9 Precoz and identification of QTLs linked to early plant vigour traits. Of the 268 polymorphic markers (93 simple sequence repeats (SSR), three inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs) and 172 random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPDs)), 265 (90 SSRs, three ISSRs and 172 RAPDs) were mapped on seven linkage groups, varying in length between 25.6 and 210.3 cM, coverage of 809.4 cM with an average marker spacing of 3.05 cM. The study also reported assigning of 24 new cross-genera SSRs of Trifolium pratense on the present linkage map. The RILs along with the parents were screened for shoot length, root length, seedling length, dry weight, number of leaves and number of branches based on two replications under polyhouse conditions. A QTLhotspot consisting of six QTLs for shoot length (cm), root length (cm) and seedling length (cm) was observed between a map distances of 56.61 and 86.81 cM on LG1.

Potential of herbal constituents as new natural leads against helminthiasis: A neglected tropical disease

The WHO reports that billions of people and animals in tropical and subtropical regions are affected by helminthiasis as neglected tropical disease. It is predominant in underdeveloped areas; nevertheless, the increase in the number of travelers and migrants has made this infection more common. The current mass drug treatment produces severe side effects and many strains of helminths are resistant to them. None of the chemotherapeutic drugs meets the ideal requirements of anthelmintics, such as broad spectrum of activity, single dose cure, free from side effect and cost-effectiveness. Today, many researchers are screening the traditional herbal system in search of the anthelmintic herbal constituents which overcome all the problems of synthetic drugs. Several researchers proclaim anthelmintic activity of herbal medicines by using different experimental models. The present review demonstrates natural product drug discovery, outlining potential of herbal constituents from natural sources as natural leads against helminthiasis.

Effect of different activators on development of activated in vitro matured caprine oocytes

This study was designed to compare the effectiveness of different activation treatments for activation of in vitro matured oocytes and their developmental potency in mCR[2]aa medium so as to obtain maximum number of embryos. A total of 1090 cumulus oocyte complexes [COC's] were collected from 480 ovaries. In vitro matured oocytes were randomly divided into four groups. Group 1 in vitro matured oocytes [n=226] were exposed to 7% ethanol for 5 min followed by treatment with 2.0 mM DMAP for 4 h in mCR[2]aa medium. Group 2 in vitro matured oocytes [n=294] were exposed to 7% ethanol for 5 min followed by treatment with 10 micro g/ml CHX for 4 h in mCR[2]aa medium. Group 3 in vitro matured oocytes [n=325] were exposed to 7% ethanol for 5 min followed by treatment with 2.0 mM DMAP and 10 micro g/ml CHX for 4 h in mCR[2]aa medium. Group 4 in vitro matured oocytes [n=108] were cultured for 4 h without any chemical treatment in mCR[2]aa medium [control]. The cleavage rate in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 was 54.42%, 44.55%, 51.69% and 0.00%, respectively. The percentage of morula and blastocyst production in group 1, group 2 and group 3 was 26.01%, 29.77% and 29.76% and 2.43%, 1.52% and 1.78%, respectively. These results suggest that the activation of in vitro matured oocytes by 7% ethanol for 5 min followed by treatment with 2.0 mM DMAP for 4 h in mCR[2]aa is most favorable for parthenogenetic caprine embryos production

Novel polymorphism of AA-NAT gene in Indian goat breeds differing in reproductive traits

This is the first description of the polymorphisms of arylalkylamine-N-acetyltransferase [AA-NAT] gene in Indian goats with different reproductive traits [twinning percentage and age of sexual maturity]. Based on the important role of AA-NAT in reproduction, it is considered as a possible candidate gene for this trait. Two novel synonymous SNPs, C825T [exon2] and C1249T [exon3] were identified. All three possible genotypes [CC, CT and TT] were identified for C825T mutation whereas two genotypes were observed [CC and CT] for C1249T mutation. SNPs C825T and C1249T changed recognition site of restriction enzyme BtsCI [GGATG] and AciI [CCGC] and thus can be genotyped by the relatively simple and cost effective technique of PCR-RFLP for establishing further association with reproductive traits. Present results add to the meager existing knowledge and extend the spectrum of genetic variation of caprine candidate genes of reproductive traits, which is another step towards improvement of goat genetic resources and breeding

Tumor-like Presentation of Tubercular Brain Abscess: Case Report

A 17-year-old girl presented with complaints of headache and decreasing vision of one month's duration, without any history of fever, weight loss, or any evidence of an immuno-compromised state. Her neurological examination was normal, except for papilledema. Laboratory investigations were within normal limits, except for a slightly increased Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR). Non-contrast computerized tomography of her head revealed complex mass in left frontal lobe with a concentric, slightly hyperdense, thickened wall, and moderate perilesional edema with mass effect. Differential diagnoses considered in this case were pilocytic astrocytoma, metastasis and abscess. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) obtained in 3.0 Tesla (3.0T) scanner revealed a lobulated outline cystic mass in the left frontal lobe with two concentric layers of T2 hypointense wall, with T2 hyperintensity between the concentric ring. Moderate perilesional edema and mass effect were seen. Post gadolinium study showed a markedly enhancing irregular wall with some enhancing nodular solid component. No restricted diffusion was seen in this mass in diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) showed increased lactate and lipid peaks in the central part of this mass, although some areas at the wall and perilesional T2 hyperintensity showed an increased choline peak without significant decrease in N-acetylaspartate (NAA) level. Arterial spin labelling (ASL) and dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) enhanced perfusion study showed decrease in relative cerebral blood volume at this region. These features in MRI were suggestive of brain abscess. The patient underwent craniotomy with excision of a grayish nodular lesion. Abundant acid fast bacilli (AFB) in acid fast staining, and epithelioid cell granulomas, caseation necrosis and Langhans giant cells in histopathology, were conclusive of tubercular abscess. Tubercular brain abscess is a rare manifestation that simulates malignancy and cause diagnostic dilemma. MRI along with MRS and magnetic resonance perfusion studies, are powerful tools to differentiate lesions in such equivocal cases.

Pathological and bacteriological study of lobe distribution of lesions in buffalo [Bubalus bubalis]

The correlation between the bacteriological agent of buffalo pneumonia and its pathologic characteristics were investigated. In the present study, 333 samples of buffalo lungs in Iran were studied for pneumonial lesions and evidence of bacterial and viral infection. The type of pneumonia was classified as interstitial, fibrinous or purulent bronchopneumonia and the anatomical location of lesions was also recorded. In 201 samples with interstitial pneumonia, the lungs were found to be noticeably elastic, edematous and pale. Microscopically, thickening of the alveoli walls, hyperplasia and increased numbers of monocytes was seen. Lesions were mostly found in the right and left diaphragmatic lobes. The 55 samples with fibrinous bronchopneumonia were macroscopically bright and marbled and firm in texture. Thickening of the alveoli walls and large numbers of neutrophils were evident at the microscopic level, and the majority of lesions were located in the diaphragmatic lobes. Microscopically, a large number of neutrophils but few macrophages were seen. Of the 24 samples with purulent bronchopneumonia, most lesions were found in the left diaphragmatic lobe. The main bacteria that were isolated were: Pasturella spp, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas cuosis, Acinetobacter spp, Arcanobacterium pyogenes, Escherichia coll and Proteus spp. Given the importance of buffalo in milk and meat production for Khuzestan province, this study could be considered as a basis for future attempts to reduce buffalo mortality due to respiratory diseases

Affection of Wnt/beta-catenin in Titanium Particles Challenged Osteoblasts / 대한정형외과연구학회지

PURPOSE: The intracellular mechanisms that lead to periprosthetic osteolysis including impaired bone forming activity of osteoblast remain incompletely characterized. To determine the possibility that Ti-particles play a role to regulate Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway in impaired osteogenesis, we analyzed the stability of beta-catenin and the transcriptional changes of regulators for Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway in MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ti-particles were prepared by sterilizing and counted on the microscopy. Transcriptional changes of OPG, RANKL, LRP5, LRP6, DKK1 and sFRP2 were determined by real-time RTPCR. Protein level of beta-catenin and GSK3beta was detected using Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS: After 4 hours of treatment of Ti-particles, OPG/RANKL mRNA ratio was significantly decreased. And also, decreased protein levels of beta-catenin and phospho-GSK3beta were detected. Using immunofluorescence stain, it was confirmed that Ti-particles suppressed nucleus staining of beta-catenin induced by Wnt3a conditioned medium. The results of real-time RT-PCR showed reduced level of LRP5 and LRP6 transcripts, and induced level of DKK1 and sFRP2 transcripts by challenging of Ti-particles CONCLUSION: Our report suggests that Ti-particles may play a crucial role in the regulation of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway in osteoblast through the transcriptional changes of membrane receptors and extracellular inhibitors for Wnt.

phytopharmacological review on genus Ailanthus

The various species of Ailanthus find extensive use in the indigenous system of medicine for various ailments. The phytochemical and biological evaluation by researchers have authenticated their usage in traditional system of medicine. In the present paper the authors compile here a comprehensive review of their use in the light of present day research

Intractable occipital neuralgia and peripheral neurectomies: a series of 20 patients with 23 operations

Occipital neuralgia is a disabling condition. It presents with episodic, sharp, occipital pains and suboccipital tenderness aggravated by neck motions. Paroxysms of stabbing/lancinating pain, radiate from the sub-occipital area towards vertex, auricle or angle of the jaw. The pain is often superimposed upon dull continuous pain. Authors present results of an analysis of 23 peripheral [greater, lesser occipital nerve and greater auricular nerve] avulsions-neurectomies in 20 patients with intractable occipital neuralgia. In these cases, secondary causes of suboccipital pain were excluded. Patients had become refractory to medical management prior to peripheral avulsion neurectomies. In immediate post-operative period results indicated that the severe occipital pain was either relieved [19/21 primary operations] or significantly reduced [2/21], ameliorating the distress. At six-weeks following surgery, two patients had recurrence of severe disabling pain, and were re-operated upon. In one, a tiny painful neuroma at the site of previous surgery and in another incomplete neurectomy at the first procedure were the main causes of early recurrence. Eighteen months following surgery, 14 patients were completely free of severe pains, 3 patients had occasional episode of mild occipital pains requiring symptomatic therapy whereas two patients had frequent occipital pains requiring regular analgesics. One patient developed scalp hypersensitivity and dysesthesia, which were treated with amitryptiline and analgesics. Peripheral neurectomy is a simple, safe and minor operation, which provides rapid effective pain relief in the majority of the patients in immediate post-operative period, whereas pain relief is achieved in 90% of cases at the six weeks and in 70% cases on a long term basis. The dramatic relief from the occipital pain and distress is much appreciated by the patients. However, in 30% of patients recurrence of pain, scalp hypersensitivity, dysesthesia and neuroma formation may occur, singly or in combination, which must be explained to the patients prior to the surgery

scope of image guided leksell stereotactic neurosurgery in Oman sterotactic target classification, indications, microsurgical approaches and implications

Current Leksell micro-stereotactic system is a recent arc-radius design which utilises well proven fixation and fiducial components. The authors present the results of a prospective study of 16 intracranial brain and orbital lesions [age ranging from 8 to 70 years, mean age 42.5 years] treated with computed tomography [CT] guided Leksell stereotactic neurosurgical procedures at the National Neurosurgical Centre, Khoula hospital, over a period of three months. Using a simple stereotactic target classification, coupled with stereotactic osteoplastic flap and short direct route planning and tumour spearing, it has been possible to devise a strategy which allows the operator to not only perform accurate biopsy but also to choose the extent of safe microneurosurgical resections from evocative areas. There was successful targeting in all cases. The results confirm high histological accuracy [15 out of 16 cases], minimal cranio-cerebral trauma, rapid convalescence, short hospital stay, low morbidity and no mortality directly related to the procedure. The recent Leksell microstereotactic system offers a safe, rapid, easily reproducible accurate craniocortical entry, transit and targeting with wide flexibility and versatility in its use. It allows sterility, unimpeded precise craniotomy access and microsurgical procedures. Its simplicity helps in the training of neurosurgical residents and colleagues working in the neurosurgery depatrment in Khoula Hospital in Oman

Supratentorial and infratentorial haemangioblastomas: literature review with lllustrative cases

The central nervous system haemangioblastomas are a unique group of life threatening, histologically benign tumours occurring solely within the neuroaxis. They are characterised by a familial incidence, a striking diversity of associated lesions in the organs and a gratifying response to microsurgical treatment. They are uncommon intracranial neoplasms constituting approximately 1 - 2% of intracranial masses and 7% of all infratentorial tumours. They may be associated with Von Hippel Lindau Complex [VHLC]. Among central nervous system haemangioblastomas, solitary or multiple, supratentorial haemangioblastomas are rare. They account for 2 - 8% of all haemangioblastomas. They are commonly intraparenchymatous, infrequently intraventricular and rarely in meningeal location. Interesting clinical, neuroradiological [computed tomography [CT] and magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]] findings are described in this review of literature with illustrative cases

Ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament in ankylosing hyperostosis as a cause of myelo-radiculopathy

Development of hypertrophic ossification in the region of posterior longitudinal ligament [OPLL] in patients with ankylosing hyperostosis [AH] may result in significant spinal stenosis and progressive myelopathy and/or radiculopathy. Severe neurological manifestations in such cases are indicators of long term poor prognosis.Therefore it is important to recognise these cases early enough to offer effective therapy when working up myeloradiculopathy. A clinico-radiological analysis of seven patients of OPLL in AH with myelopathy and radiculopathy is presented. Surgically treated patients [4 cases]had remarkably good outcome on long term basis

Chronic subdural haematoma and bilharziasis

Chronic subdural haematoma[CSH] in elderly or late middle age is a common problem in neurological practice. History of trauma, although frequently present in many, may be trivial in some and absent in a fair number of cases. A report on a patient with visceral bilharziasia who developed CSH is presented. He is surgically treated with good outcome

Traumatic carotico-cavernous fistula treated with balloon embolization. Review of literature with an illustrative case.

Post traumatic carotico-cavernous fistulae, as a result of severe cranial trauma disrupting the integrity of carotid artery in its cavernous portion, are uncommon intracranial lesions. These high flow, high-pressure, arteriovenous shunts commonly drain directly into the ipsilateral ophthalmic veins and inferior petrosal veins producing exophthalmos, cephalic bruit, ocular pulsation, chemosis, extraocular nerve palsies and visual failure. Their overall management is :challenging. Among four such cases seen in the department of neurosurgery, Khoula hospital, the authors present an illustrative case to highlight aetiopathogenesis, clinical aspects and special importance of the percutaneous transluminal cerebral angiography in diagnostic and therapeutic [embolization] stratgegies

Minimally invasive neurosurgery using CRW-3 sterotaxy

The Cosman-Roberts-Wells [CRW-3] scanner independent stereotactic system is a recent arc-radius design developed from the Brown-Roberts-Wells system. The results of 74 supratentorial non-basal tumor suspect cases treated with this second generation computed tomography [CT] guided stereotactic apparatus are presented. Using a simple stereotactic target classification coupled with biopsy, trephine or mini-craniotomy, it has been possible to biopsy, excise and develop new strategies using microneurosurgical techniques with extremely low morbidity