SSR marker-based DNA fingerprinting of Sub1 introgressed lines in the background of traditional rice varieties of Assam India-Supplementary data

Rice varieties are usually characterized by agro-morphological descriptors used for seed certification and seed characterization by following distinctiveness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) test. But in fact, these primary distinguishing morphological descriptors among rice varieties are very limited and hence face problems to distinguish germplasm accessions. Germplasm certification in NBPGR requires a DNA fingerprinting profile to explain germplasm uniqueness compared to existing varieties. Varietal identification has gained a key role worldwide, particularly in plant variety protection. Sixty-two morphological descriptors studies have shown the Sub1 introgressed advanced lines E-6, C-210, C-196, 1189-1 and 1160-1 are distinct from the other varieties for more than 15morphological traits, based on these variations the lines were selected for DNA fingerprinting. About68 SSRs markers were used for DNA fingerprinting in seven genotypes, two of which were parents (Ranjit, Bahadur) and three Sub1 introgressed advanced lines (E6, C210, C196) in Ranjit background, and two Sub1 introgressed advanced lines (1189-1, 1160-1) in Bahadur background. DNA fingerprinting was done on these genotypes of rice using SSR markers. Among the 68 SSR markers, total 65 markers were amplified and three were found not amplified. Out of 65 markersfour of them viz. RM 152, RM 172, RM 251, and RM 346 showed better polymorphism with amplicon size ranges from 155-163 bp, 150-159 bp, 137-147 bp, and 166-175 bp, respectively, and remaining 61 showed monomorphic amplification. Therefore, SSR (Simple-sequence repeats) based DNA fingerprinting helped to differentiate Ranjit, Bahadur, E-6, C-210, C-196, 1189-1, and 1160-1. Hence, the research reveals that newly developed high-yielding Sub1 introgressed advanced lines in the background of traditional Assam rice varieties (Ranjit and Bahadur) are unique in their identity.

SSR marker-based DNA fingerprinting of Sub1 introgressed lines in the background of traditional rice varieties of Assam India-Supplementary data

Rice varieties are usually characterized by agro-morphological descriptors used for seed certification and seed characterization by following distinctiveness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) test. But in fact, these primary distinguishing morphological descriptors among rice varieties are very limited and hence face problems to distinguish germplasm accessions. Germplasm certification in NBPGR requires a DNA fingerprinting profile to explain germplasm uniqueness compared to existing varieties. Varietal identification has gained a key role worldwide, particularly in plant variety protection. Sixty-two morphological descriptors studies have shown the Sub1 introgressed advanced lines E-6, C-210, C-196, 1189-1 and 1160-1 are distinct from the other varieties for more than 15morphological traits, based on these variations the lines were selected for DNA fingerprinting. About68 SSRs markers were used for DNA fingerprinting in seven genotypes, two of which were parents (Ranjit, Bahadur) and three Sub1 introgressed advanced lines (E6, C210, C196) in Ranjit background, and two Sub1 introgressed advanced lines (1189-1, 1160-1) in Bahadur background. DNA fingerprinting was done on these genotypes of rice using SSR markers. Among the 68 SSR markers, total 65 markers were amplified and three were found not amplified. Out of 65 markersfour of them viz. RM 152, RM 172, RM 251, and RM 346 showed better polymorphism with amplicon size ranges from 155-163 bp, 150-159 bp, 137-147 bp, and 166-175 bp, respectively, and remaining 61 showed monomorphic amplification. Therefore, SSR (Simple-sequence repeats) based DNA fingerprinting helped to differentiate Ranjit, Bahadur, E-6, C-210, C-196, 1189-1, and 1160-1. Hence, the research reveals that newly developed high-yielding Sub1 introgressed advanced lines in the background of traditional Assam rice varieties (Ranjit and Bahadur) are unique in their identity.

SSR marker-based DNA fingerprinting of Sub1 introgressed lines in the background of traditional rice varieties of Assam India

Rice varieties are usually characterized by agro-morphological descriptors used for seed certification and seed characterization by following distinctiveness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) test. But in fact, these primary distinguishing morphological descriptors among rice varieties are very limited and hence face problems to distinguish germplasm accessions. Germplasm certification in NBPGR requires a DNA fingerprinting profile to explain germplasm uniqueness compared to existing varieties. Varietal identification has gained a key role worldwide, particularly in plant variety protection. Sixty-two morphological descriptors studies have shown the Sub1 introgressed advanced lines E-6, C-210, C-196, 1189-1 and 1160-1 are distinct from the other varieties for more than 15morphological traits, based on these variations the lines were selected for DNA fingerprinting. About68 SSRs markers were used for DNA fingerprinting in seven genotypes, two of which were parents (Ranjit, Bahadur) and three Sub1 introgressed advanced lines (E6, C210, C196) in Ranjit background, and two Sub1 introgressed advanced lines (1189-1, 1160-1) in Bahadur background. DNA fingerprinting was done on these genotypes of rice using SSR markers. Among the 68 SSR markers, total 65 markers were amplified and three were found not amplified. Out of 65 markersfour of them viz. RM 152, RM 172, RM 251, and RM 346 showed better polymorphism with amplicon size ranges from 155-163 bp, 150-159 bp, 137-147 bp, and 166-175 bp, respectively, and remaining 61 showed monomorphic amplification. Therefore, SSR (Simple-sequence repeats) based DNA fingerprinting helped to differentiate Ranjit, Bahadur, E-6, C-210, C-196, 1189-1, and 1160-1. Hence, the research reveals that newly developed high-yielding Sub1 introgressed advanced lines in the background of traditional Assam rice varieties (Ranjit and Bahadur) are unique in their identity.

Study of Cholesterol Levels in Ascitic Fluid to Differentiate Malignant from Non-Malignant Effusion.

Collection of more than normal quantity fluid in a serous cavity is called effusion. Itis classified as per location i.e. pericardial, pleural and peritoneal. Fluid collection inabdominal cavity is called ascites. Effusions are of two types - (1) Transudate (2)Exudate. Transudate develops as a result of physiological disturbances of circulationusually a rise in venous pressure or decrease in oncotic pressure, while exudateforms as a result of increased capillary permeability which is usually due toinflammation. Transudates usually have low specific gravity due to low proteincontent whereas exudates have high specific gravity due to high protein content.Transudates are usually associated with cardiac-, hepatic- or renal-disease. Whileexudates are caused by inflammatory conditions like tuberculosis and malignanciesof pelvic and abdominal organs. Recently fibronectin and cholesterol levels ofperitoneal fluid have been found to differentiate between ascites of differentaetiologies. The estimation of fibronectin levels in fluid is sensitive but complicated.So, in this study we have taken the value of cholesterol for the aetiologic diagnosisof ascites as a simple procedure.METHODSThe present descriptive study of 100 cases of ascites was conducted over a period of12 months i.e. January. 2019 to January 2020. Various fluids were collected fromOPD and IPD of Medical and Surgery units.RESULTSIn the present study, 84% of the cases were transudates while exudates accountedfor 16% of cases. Cirrhosis (65%) was the commonest cause among transudates.Other causes included congestive cardiac failure (09%), nephrotic syndrome (06%),& anaemias (04%). Exudative ascites was caused by tuberculosis in 10% cases &malignancy in 06% cases. Cholesterol level of >70 mg/dL was found in 82% ofmalignant ascites. So, it was concluded that ascitic fluid cholesterol levels weresignificantly greater in malignant cases in comparison to ascites caused by non -malignant aetiologies. Inference - Cholesterol concentration in ascitic fluid helps todifferentiate ascites in malignancy, from non - malignant ascites.CONCLUSIONSCholesterol estimation in ascitic fluid is a better parameter to differentiatemalignant ascites from non - malignant ascites.

Genomic marker assisted identification of genetic loci and genes associated with variation of grain zinc concentration in rice

A study was conducted to examine the genetic divergence and to determine the genetic loci and genes associated with natural variation of grain zinc (Zn) concentration among 28 landraces, improved varieties and advanced breeding lines of rice using candidate gene specific primers. Field evaluation of the experimental material was conducted in randomized block design with three replications and Zn content in unpolished grains of the entries was determined by addition of nitric acid and perchloric acid (1:3) following the procedure ofdiacid digestion method. Statistical analysis revealed the exploitable extent of variability with respect to grain Zn concentration among the entries. Eighteen entries were selected from the two extremes of grain Zn distribution range and subjected to molecular profiling using a panel of 14 candidate genes specific 12 reported and 14 designed primer pairs. Only eight (OsZIP1-1, OsZIP3a, OsZIP4a, OsZIP5-3, OsZIP7-2, OsZIP8b, OsNRAMP7 and OsNAAT1) reported and eight (OsZIP3K, OsZIP4K, OsZIP5K, OsZIP7K, OsNRAMP7K, OsNAAT1K, OsNACK and OsYSL14K) designed primers generated polymorphic amplified products showing sequence length variation due to targeted amplification of candidate genes specific genomic regions. Ample genetic differentiation and divergence were revealed among the entries, which were accommodated into similarity coefficient-based six clusters, remarkably consistent with grain Zn concentrationof the entries. Hierarchical classification pattern of entries was almost completely corroborated by principal co-ordinate analysisbased spatial distribution pattern of their genetic profiles. Molecular analysis based on candidate genes specific primers appeared to be an efficient approach for the elucidation of genetic differentiation and divergence in relation to variation of grain Zn concentration among entries. Hence, these markers can be effectively and efficiently utilized for grain Zn concentration related discrimination of rice genotypes and selection of parental genotypes for grain Zn biofortification. Microsatellites were detected within the candidate genes and amplicons, thereby providing a basis to deduce that the repeat sequence length variation in candidate genes may be a role player in the differential grain Zn accumulation in rice varieties. Single marker analysis established the association of OsNACK, OsZIP1-1, OsNRAMP7 and OsNRAMP7K with grain Zn concentration. Thus, these four markers can be effectively used in marker-assisted selection programme for grainZn biofortification in rice.

Association between Diameter of Heart and Cardio-Thoracic Size with the Body Habitus: An Observational Study

Background: Heart size in the absence of skeletal abnormalityor any lung disease is assumed to be related with the habitusof the patients. Tendency to estimate the heart size hasflagged a very objective methodology for clinical diagnosis,serial determination and population studies on heart size, evenwith of its limitations. The present study was conducted withthe aim to estimate the association of heart diameter andcardio-thoracic ratio (CTR) with the body habitus.Materials and Methods: The subjects between 25-70 years ofage and without having any cardiac etiology, lung disease orany other heart problem were included in the study. The weightof the subjects was estimated without footwear. A posterioranterio chest X-ray was taken with a focus distance ofapproximately 1.8 m with erect posture of the person andnormal inspiration. All the data thus obtained was arranged in atabulated form and analysed using SPSS software.Results: The CTR amongst males less than 30 years of agewas 43.2 and females was 45.8. The CTR amongst malesbetween 30-40 years of age was 44.4 and females was 46.4.Females with BMI more than 30 had CTR of 48.2 and maleswith BMI less than 24 had CTR of 47.2.Conclusion: From the above results it can be concludedthat the diameter of heart has a strong interrelation with thebody measurements as compared to the cardio thoracicdiameter.

Effect of CYP3A4 Inhibitor Erythromycin on the Pharmacokinetics Of Lignocaine in Subjects with Liver Dysfunction

Background: Lignocaine is a local anaesthetic agent that isalso effectively in the acute intravenous treatment of ventriculararrhythmias. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect oferythromycin, as a prototypical CYP3A4 inhibitor, on thedisposition kinetics of lignocaine in healthy volunteers andpatients with liver cirrhosis.Materials & Methods: A double-blind, randomized controlstudy, thirty male subjects (10 healthy volunteers and 20patients with biopsy-proven liver cirrhosis) participated in thestudy, after giving their informed written consent. The studydesign was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee.Patients were excluded from this study if they had a history ofgastrointestinal bleeding, severe encephalopathy or any otherdisease. None of the participants was a smoker or a heavyconsumer of alcohol. They were requested to abstain fromalcohol during the preceding week and throughout the period ofinvestigation.Results: In our study showed that there were no statisticallysignificant differences between the three groups for age,weight, height, or body mass index. Our study indicates thatonly in decompensated (Child’s class C) cirrhotic patients werethe disposition kinetics of lignocaine profoundly alteredcompared with healthy volunteers. In particular, CL wasapproximately halved, whereas Vss was increased and,consequently, t1/2 was more than doubled.Conclusion: This study has shown that concomitantadministration of erythromycin causes a moderate butstatistically significant decrease in lignocaine clearance that,contrary to predictions, is quantitatively similar in healthysubjects and cirrhotic patients. Because, erythromycin alsosignificantly increases the AUC of MEGX, which has beenshown to have 80–90% of the antiarrhythmic potency oflignocaine.Keyw

Variation Of Roots In The Formation Of Median Nerve

Background: Median nerve formation exhibits several variations in the form of additional roots and /orcommunications which are relevant to the surgical explorations of shoulder, axilla and arm.Aim: To study the variations in the formation of median nerve and its communications with musculocutaneousnerve in cadaveric upper limbs.Materials and Methods: The study was done in 34 formalin fixed cadavers (68 upper limbs) and 10 isolatedlimbs. All cadavers were conventionally dissected and observed for median nerve formation and dissected up tocubital fossa for presence of any communications.Observations: Out of the 78 upper limbs dissected, 12 limbs (15.38%) showed two lateral roots and one medialroot contributing to the formation of median nerve. One case of bilateral presence of extra lateral root wasfound. The extra lateral root or communication from the musculocutaneous nerve was arising distal tocoracobrachialis in 2 cases and proximal to the muscle in 10 cases. In three cases, absence of musculocutaneousnerve was observed and median nerve was supplying either all or some muscles of the flexor compartment. Oneof the cases of absent musculocutaneous nerve had two medial roots and one lateral root that is a very rarecombination of variation not reported in the literature. In all cases of two lateral roots, the median nerve wasformed medial or anterior to axillary artery. So we observed median nerve variation in 16 upper limbs [20.51%]Conclusion: Thorough understanding of variations in the formation and communications of median nerve and itsvascular relations is important for successful surgical outcome and clinical interpretation of lesions of thenerve.

Molecular diagnosis and intraspecific genetic variability of root pathogens of arid legumes in Western Rajasthan, India / Diagnóstico molecular y la variabilidad genética intraespecífica de patógenos de raíces en leguminosas resistentes a sequías del oeste de Rajasthan, India

Abstract:The productivity of arid legumes, such as Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba), Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), Moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia) and Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum), may remain stagnant over decades because of their high susceptibility to root diseases. Besides, there is a limitation on the information about molecular diagnosis and intraspecific genetic variability of root pathogens in arid legumes. To contribute in this field, we assessed a total of 52 isolates from 88 root samples that were found infected with fungal pathogens in Jodhpur, Jaipur and Bikaner Districts of Rajasthan. Diseased roots samples were analyzed following standard microbiological methods for fungus extraction and purification, and for genetic studies. Irrespective of the geographical location from where the diseased samples were collected, all pathogen isolates were clustered in RAPD dendrograms as per their respective genera. Phylogram, based on multiple sequence alignment, revealed that different genera (i.e. Fusarium, Neocosmospora and Syncephalastrum), separated from each other, and species within the same genera, clustered together with their reference sequences with apreciable bootstrap values. Out of 20 representative isolates representing each cluster and all outgroups sequenced, eight were molecularly identified as Neocosmospora vasinfecta, five as Fusarium solani, two as Neocosmospora striata, two as Fusarium acutatum, one as Syncephalastrum monosporum, one as Fusarium oxysporum and one as Fusarium species. The root pathogens of the arid legumes were found neither restricted to a geographical location nor were host specific in nature. Fusarium solani wilt in cowpea and seedling rot in moth bean, F. oxysporum wilt in moth bean, F. acutatum damping off in cowpea and Clusterbean, Fusarium sp. seedling rot in Clusterbean, Neocosmospora striata root rot in cowpea and wilt in Clusterbean and Syncephalastrum monosporum root rot in Clusterbean were molecularly identified as new fungal records as pathogens causing root diseases in arid legumes. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (4): 1505-1518. Epub 2016 December 01.

Resumen:La producción de leguminosas resistentes a sequías como Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Vigna unguiculata, Vigna aconitifolia y Macrotyloma uniflorum, puede permanecer inactiva durante décadas debido a su alta susceptibilidad a enfermedades en las raíces. Además, hay información limitada relacionada con el diagnóstico molecular y la variabilidad genética intraespecífica de patógenos de raíces en estas leguminosas resistentes a sequías. Para contribuir en esta área, evaluamos un total de 52 extractos de 88 raíces infectadas con patógenos fúngicos en los distritos de Jodhpur, Jaipur y Bikaner de Rajastán. Las muestras de raíces infectadas se analizaron siguiendo los métodos estándar de microbiología para extracción y purificación de hongos y para estudios genéticos. Independientemente del sitio donde se recolectaron las muestras contaminadas, todos los extractos patógenicos se agruparon en dendrogramas RAPD en cada uno de sus respectivos géneros. El filograma, basado en alineamiento de secuencias múltiples reveló que distintos géneros (Fusarium, Neocosmospora y Syncephalastrum) separados entre ellos y especies del mismo género se agrupan con sus secuencias de referencia con valores de bootstrap significativos. De cada 20 extractos representantes de cada agrupamiento y todos los grupos externos secuenciados, ocho fueron identificados molecularmente como Neocosmospora vasinfecta, dos como Fusarium acutatum, una como Syncephalastrum monosporum, una como Fusarium oxysporum y una como Fusarium. Los patógenos de estas leguminosas resistentes a sequías no están restringidos por la localidad ni por un hospedero específico. Fusarium solani que marchita el frijol de vaca y pudre la semilla de Vigna aconitifolia, F. oxysporum que marchita a Vigna aconitifolia, F. acutatum que marchita a Vigna unguiculata y Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Fusarium sp. que pudre la semilla de Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Neocosmospora striata que pudre la raíz de Vigna unguiculata y marchita a Cyamopsis tetragonoloba y, Syncephalastrum monosporum que pudre la raíz en Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, fueron identificados molecularmente como nuevos registros de patógenos fúngicos que causan daños en las raíces de leguminosas resistentes a sequías.

Evaluation of Lumber Vertebral Canal at Disc Level in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic subjects: A Radiological Evaluation.

Background: Spinal stenosis is defined as the narrowing of central spinal canal or its lateral recesses. Stenosis of spinal canal becomes important only when it results in interference with the normal functions of the contents of the canal. Narrowing of spinal canal seems to be a normal part of advancing age but certain uncertainties persist as regards to radiological definition of lumbar spinal canal stenosis. Material & Method: The present study was aimed to evaluate the clinical relevance of stenosis of spinal canal through the most recent technique, MRI. Fifty symptomatic and 18 asymptomatic subjects were included. Antero-posterior and transverse diameters of vertebral canal were compared between symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects and statistically analyzed. Results & Discussion: The present study clearly shows that in both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects there is a gradual decrease in the antero-posterior diameter from above downwards . The minimum anteroposterior and maximum transverse diameter was seen at L4L5 level making this level susceptible to compressive symptomatology. Apparent stenosis was observed in some asymptomatic subjects.

Crossed Renal Ectopia Without Fusion: A Multidetector Computed Tomography Study.

Background: Congenital positional, rotational and fusion anomalies of the kidney are frequently encountered. Crossed renal ectopia is a condition in which the kidney is located on the side contralateral to its ureteral insertion into the urinary bladder. Crossed renal ectopia without fusion is a very rare anomaly sporadically reported in the literature. We have attempted to analyse such renal anomalies in a large series of patients. Materials & Methods: Contrast enhanced multidetector computed tomographic scans of 960 patients (491 males and 469 females, age range 4-90 years) were reviewed . Observations: Crossed renal ectopia without fusion was detected in three patients (0.31%; 1 in 320 cases). All three patients were males and left- to-right renal ectopia was noted in two cases and right-to-left ectopia in one case, in whom the ectopic right kidney was exhibiting multicystic dysplasia. An interesting observation was vascularisation of crossed ectopic unfused left kidneys by branches arising from the right common iliac artery. Conclusion: Crossed renal ectopia without fusion is an extremely rare anomaly and may remain asymptomatic without being detected. Multidetector computed tomography angiography is an excellent imaging modality to detect renal positional and rotational anomalies. To the best of our knowledge the present study is the first study to detect renal anomalies in a large series of cases.

Hemostatic, antibacterial biopolymers from Acacia arabica (Lam.) Willd. and Moringa oleifera (Lam.) as potential wound dressing materials.

Acacia arabica and Moringa oleifera are credited with a number of medicinal properties. Traditionally gum of Acacia plant is used in the treatment of skin disorders to soothe skin rashes, soreness, inflammation and burns while Moringa seed extracts are known to have antibacterial activity. In the present study the potential of the polymeric component of aqueous extracts of gum acacia (GA) and the seeds of M. oleifera (MSP) in wound management was evaluated. The results revealed that both biopolymers were hemostatic and hasten blood coagulation. They showed shortening of activated partial thromboplastin time and prothrombin time and were non-cytotoxic in nature. Both showed antibacterial activity against organisms known to be involved in wound infections with MIC ranging from 500-600 µg mL-1 for GA and 300-700 µg mL-1 for MSP. They were biodegradable and exhibited water absorption capacity in the range of 415 to 935%. The hemostatic character coupled to these properties envisions their potential in preparation of dressings for bleeding and profusely exuding wounds. The biopolymers have been further analysed for their composition by Gas chromatography.

Effects of fluoride on germination, early growth and antioxidant enzyme activities of legume plant species Prosopis juliflora.

Prosopis juliflora (Mimosoideae) is a fast growing and drought resistant tree of semi-arid region of India where fluoride (F) toxicity is a common problem. In the present investigations this species was fluoride tested to check their capacity as bioindicator plant and its efficiency to accumulate. To achieve this aim, P. juliflora seedlings grown in hydroponic culture containing different concentrations of F were analyzed for germination percentage together with some biochemical parameters viz, antioxidant enzyme activities, total chlorophyll and accumulation of F in different plant parts. After 15 days of treatment, root growth (r = -0.928, p<0.01), shoot growth (r = -0.976, p<0.01), vigor index (r = -0.984, p<0.01) were in decreasing trend with increasing concentration of NaF. Both catalase (3.2 folds) and peroxidase (2.7 folds) enzymes activity increased with increase in F concentration. Plant accumulated larger portion of the F in the roots (1024.63 µg g-1 d.wt.) followed by shoot (492.30 µg g-1 d.wt.). As P. juliflora did not show any morphological changes (marginal and tip chlorosis of leaf portions, necrosis and together these features are referred to as leaf “tip-burn”) therefore, this species may be used as suitable bioindicator species for potentially F affected areas. Further, higher accumulation of F in roots indicates that P. juliflora is a suitable species for the removal of F in phytoremediation purposes.

Effect of fluoride pollution on genetic diversity of a medicinal tree, Syzygium cumini.

Syzygium cumini Linn. (Myrtaceae) is a medicinal tree (Jamun) used worldwide in treatment of diabetes. However, no molecular data is available on genetic polymorphism and its relationship, if any with fluoride pollution. In the present study, the genetic variability of two populations of S. cumini growing in fluoride rich soils and normal soils located in Rajasthan and Haryana regions of India, respectively was determined using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Different measures of diversity in Rajasthan populations: Shannon’s index of phenotypic diversity (I) = 0.440; Nei’s genetic diversity (h) = 0.292; effective number of alleles per locus (Ne) = 1.497; total species diversity (Hsp) = 0.307 and within population diversity (Hpop) = 0.158 showed high diversity in comparison to Haryana populations. Thus, it seems that Rajasthan population responds with increased genetic variation resulting possibly from new mutation that affect allele frequencies as a consequence of adaptation to contaminated environment. This may imply that the increased diversity levels may act as a buffer to combat fluoride stress. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) results showed mixing between the populations.

Non-surgical management of iatrogenic arterial pseudoaneurysms-ultrasound-guided manual compression, an Indian experience.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided manual compression of arterial pseudoaneurysms formed as a result of various procedures. METHODS: Ultrasound-guided manual compression was performed in 444 patients with ultrasound-diagnosed pseudoaneurysm. These patients were evaluated for number of locules in pseudoaneurysm, size of pseudoaneurysm, total time of compression, number of sittings, success/failure of the procedure, and possible complications. RESULTS: Out of 444 patients, 231 (52%) were on post-coronary angiography (3 via brachial route and rest via femoral route), 212 (47.7%) had post-coronary angioplasty and 1 (0.22%) was post-nailing of fracture of right tibia (pseudoaneurysm of right anterior tibial artery). Out of 444 patients, 132 (29.7%) had hypertension, 45 (10.1%) had diabetes mellitus, 117 (26.3%) had both hypertension and diabetes, and 90 (20.2%) were obese. 384 (86.5%) had unilocular, 51 (11.5%) had bilocular, 6 (1.3%) had trilocular and 3 (0.67%) had tetralocular pseudoaneurysm. Size of pseudoaneurysm varied between 0.8 cm and 8.1 cm (mean 3.3 cm). 342 (77%), 48 (10.8%), 54 (12.1%) required 1, 2 and 3 sittings, respectively for complete closure. The compression time was between 15 and 120 minutes (mean 40 minutes). Successful compression was achieved in 423 (95.3%). There were 21 (4.7%) failures, 12 out of which required surgical repair, 6 had spontaneous closure between 12 and 24 weeks and 3 were lost to follow up at 1 year. Out of 212 post-coronary intervention patients, 9 were on low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). In 7 of these 9 patients, LMWH was stopped 48 hours before compression and in remaining 2, compression was done during the course of LMWH therapy. The compression was successful in all 9 patients. Only 2 patients had a transient vasovagal attack. CONCLUSIONS: USG manual compression is safe, inexpensive, reliable and effective outpatient procedure for non-surgical management of arterial pseudoaneurysm.

Production of moderately halotolerant, SDS stable alkaline protease from Bacillus cereus MTCC 6840 isolated from lake Nainital, Uttaranchal state, India

A moderately cold active, extracellular alkaline protease producing bacterium was isolated from a fresh water lake. The isolate was found to be a gram-positive, rod shaped organism later identified as Bacillus cereus MTCC 6840. The bacterium produced the maximum amount of enzyme when allowed to grow for 24 h at temperature 25º and pH 9.0. Among a variety of substrates used, fructose as a carbon source and a combination of yeast extract and peptone as nitrogen source, supported the maximum protease production by the organism (120 U/ml). Fe++ and Co++ stimulated the enzyme activity whereas Ca++, Cu++, K+, Mg++ and Mn++ inhibited it to different extents. The protease was found to be highly stable in the presence of NaCl, SDS and acetone. Treatment with EDTA and PMSF resulted in the considerable loss of enzyme activity. The enzyme was found to be optimally active at pH 9.0 and temperature 20ºC.

Uma bactéria produtora de protease alcalina extracelular, moderadamente ativa no frio, foi isolada da água de um lago. Trata-se de um bacilo Gram positivo, identificado como Bacillus cereus MTCC6840. A maior produção da enzima foi em 24h a 25ºC e pH 9,0. A produção máxima de protease (120 U/ml) ocorreu quando foi utilizada frutose como fonte de carbono e uma combinação de extrato de levedura com peptona como fonte de nitrogênio. Fe++ e Co++ estimularam a atividade da enzima, enquanto Ca++, Cu++, K+,Mg++ e Mn++ tiveram efeito inibitório, com intensidades diferentes. A protease permaneceu estável na presença de NaCl, SDS e acetona. O tratamento com EDTA e PMSF causou uma significativa perda na atividade. A enzima apresentou atividade ótima em pH 9,0 e temperatura de 20ºC.

Darier's disease following radiotherapy for carcinoma of cervix.

Darier-White disease is due to a defect in the ATP2A2 gene encoding the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA2b). We report a case of carcinoma cervix in whom Darier's disease manifested after the initiation of radiation therapy. Conventional cytogenetics on peripheral blood revealed non-clonal constitutional autosomal and X chromosome abnormalities suggesting radiation induced gene toxicity. Occurrence of Darier's disease in our case could be due to treatment induced sustained differentiation in the Darier's affected skin by an unknown mechanism. Late onset or sporadic Darier's disease is the other possibility.