Central University of Kerala

About: Central University of Kerala is a education organization based out in Kāsaragod, India. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Catalysis. The organization has 556 authors who have published 881 publications receiving 7474 citations.

National Library of India: A Historical Perspective

Abstract: Traces the history of organized document collections of India from very ancient times, the contribution of Europeans especially the British rulers of India for systematization and conservation of such collections, and the origins of public library systems that culminated in the establishment of the National Library of India. Critically evaluates the National Library system of India as well as its present set up, resources and services. The paper argues that the main characteristics of a national library, which distinctly delineate it from other types of libraries is its specialization in a particular geographical area for its content. It should achieve maximum reliability of the collection in that mandatory area. The paper points out that in coverage and reliability in the mandatory areas as well as in extending services to the expected users including those living in remote villages; Indian National Library has failed. The study suggests decentralization of the resources by physically spreading it among the regions of concerned languages, establishment of subject specific divisions and other measure that can enable the National Library of India to fulfill its objectives.

In silico analysis of nsSNPs in CYP19A1 gene affecting breast cancer associated aromatase enzyme

Abstract: The human aromatase protein encoded by CYP19A1 gene is the principle enzyme involved in the biogenesis of oestrogen in adipose tissues. An excessive exposure to endogenous oestrogen is regarded as an important determinant in the risk of breast cancer. Thus, in the present study we have used multiple computational methods to identify the most deleterious nonsynonymous SNPs in CYP19A1 gene that caused probable genotypic-phenotypic alterations susceptible to breast cancer malignancy. In this study, a total of 338 nsSNPs were screened using 12 in silico tools including SIFT, PROVEAN, PolyPhene-2, SNAP2, I Mutant 3.0, MuPro, mCSM, PhD SNP, SNPG and L451P, G49D, G131D, L204W and D309) to have various deformities and caused structural disturbances of the protein. Through the combination of multiple computational tools and strategized analysis, we report seven novel high risk nsSNPs of human aromatase enzyme in association with the pathogenesis of human breast cancer.

Diesel Oil Utilization Efficiency of Selective Bacterial Isolates from Automobile Workshop and Thesjaswini River of Kerala

Abstract: Bioremoval and bioreduction activities of hydrocarbon (diesel) isolation from environmental samples were studied by the activity of biosurfactant production, and calculating emulsification index, gravimetric, and FTIR analysis along with the estimation of bacterial biomass. Sample from soil near petrol, diesel pumps and water sample from Thesjaswini River near Padannakad, Kasaragod, Kerala, India, were used to screen the potential diesel oil utilizing bacteria. Among the bacterial isolates (Staphylococcus, Bacillus and Corynebacterium strains), Staphylococcus sp was the potent degraders of diesel oil. Staphylococcus strain was observed to be maximum diesel oil utilizing ability (73% emulsification index) and change in the functional groups of the compound (FTIR analysis). The strain showed optimal growth at 37oC with pH 7, agitation of 150 rpm and time period (5days). The results revealed the possibility to use these strain for the reduction of complex hydrocarbon in ecosystems where they accumulate and cause pollution problems. The highest rate of hydrocarbon degradation occurred when the bacterial strain is a biosurfactants producer. The selective strain produces biosurfactants which increase the interfacial area for contact to give improved uptake of hydrophobic substrates. Bacterial strains capable of degrading complex hydrocarbons, present in the environment, have a potential to be used as an effective tool for removing ecotoxic compounds. Furthermore, results indicated that the bacterial strain Staphylococcus sp could be potentially used in biodegradation of diesel oil in waste water and had a promising application in bioremediation of hydrocarbon contaminated environments.

Horizontal Transfer of miR-643 from Cisplatin-Resistant Cells Confers Chemoresistance to Recipient Drug-Sensitive Cells by Targeting APOL6.

Abstract: Acquisition of resistance to cisplatin is a major impediment to the success of cisplatin-based combination therapies for cancer Recent studies indicate that exosomal miRNAs derived from drug-resistant tumour cells can confer resistance properties to recipient cells by a horizontal transfer mechanism Although the role of horizontal transfer of a few miRNAs has been described, little is known about the concerted action of horizontal transfer of miRNAs in conferring cisplatin resistance The present study was designed to identify the role of miR-643, which is one of the most significantly increased miRNA in exosomes released from cisplatin-resistant Heptocarcinoma cells, in altering the cisplatin resistance properties of recipient cells Drug-sensitivity assays involving miR-643 revealed that ectopic expression of miR-643 can desensitise the cells towards cisplatin Furthermore, we identified APOL6 as a major target of miR-643 Further mechanistic studies showed that miR-643 can modulate APOL6 mRNA and protein levels, leading to a reversal of APOL6-mediated apoptosis Altogether, our results suggest an APOL6-dependent mechanism for miR-643 mediated cisplatin resistance upon the horizontal transfer across cell types

Community Conservation of Marine Turtles and Sustainable Ecosystems

Abstract: A declining trend in the nesting of olive ridley turtles has been recorded throughout the coasts of Kerala. It is essential to establish an empowered community which can work in collaboration with the government and nongovernment institutions to conserve the species. In Kerala, several groups like Neythal in Kasaragod and Theeram in Kozhikode district are involved in the conservation of olive ridley turtles with the support of local people. The turtle eggs collected were reared in a hatchery at Thaikadappuram and young ones released back to the sea. Children as future crusaders of biodiversity play a vital role in biodiversity conservation; as such awareness programs were conducted in schools and seabird viewing camps were organized, and pamphlets and activity books for children were distributed as part of the program. The chapter gives an insight into community conservation of marine turtles in Kerala, threats identified, and actions to be taken to protect the nesting sites of marine turtles.