Cochin University of Science and Technology

About: Cochin University of Science and Technology is a education organization based out in Kochi, Kerala, India. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Thin film & Natural rubber. The organization has 5382 authors who have published 7690 publications receiving 103827 citations. The organization is also known as: CUSAT & Cochin University.

Mutations of the UPF3B gene, which encodes a protein widely expressed in neurons, are associated with nonspecific mental retardation with or without autism

Abstract: Mutations in the UPF3B gene, which encodes a protein involved in nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, have recently been described in four families with specific (Lujan-Fryns and FG syndromes), nonspecific X-linked mental retardation (XLMR) and autism. To further elucidate the contribution of UPF3B to mental retardation (MR), we screened its coding sequence in 397 families collected by the EuroMRX consortium. We identified one nonsense mutation, c.1081C>T/p.Arg361(*), in a family with nonspecific MR (MRX62) and two amino-acid substitutions in two other, unrelated families with MR and/or autism (c.1136G>A/p.Arg379His and c.1103G>A/p.Arg368Gln). Functional studies using lymphoblastoid cell lines from affected patients revealed that c.1081C>T mutation resulted in UPF3B mRNA degradation and consequent absence of the UPF3B protein. We also studied the subcellular localization of the wild-type and mutated UPF3B proteins in mouse primary hippocampal neurons. We did not detect any obvious difference in the localization between the wild-type UPF3B and the proteins carrying the two missense changes identified. However, we show that UPF3B is widely expressed in neurons and also presents in dendritic spines, which are essential structures for proper neurotransmission and thus learning and memory processes. Our results demonstrate that in addition to Lujan-Fryns and FG syndromes, UPF3B protein truncation mutations can cause also nonspecific XLMR. We also identify comorbidity of MR and autism in another family with UPF3B mutation. The neuronal localization pattern of the UPF3B protein and its function in mRNA surveillance suggests a potential function in the regulation of the expression and degradation of various mRNAs present at the synapse.

Experimental studies on drilling of aluminium (AA1050) under dry, minimum quantity of lubricant, and flood-lubricated conditions

Abstract: When considering the environmental issues in machining, the fundamental concern is the use of cutting fluids. Industry and research institutions are looking for ways to reduce the use of cu...

Antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture: a crisis for concern

Abstract: Emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in cultured fishes is one of the major challenges faced in aquaculture. The high prevalence of bacterial infections in fishes leads to frequent use of antibiotics and thus their persistence in the aquatic environment, which in turn results in the proliferation of antibiotic resistant bacteria. The AMR in aquaculture can be transferred to clinically important strains of natural environment through horizontal gene transfer, thereby affecting the whole ecosystem. Most of the cultured fishes, including ornamental possess diverse pathogens exhibiting multiple antibiotic resistance. A thorough understanding of the gene transfer systems such as plasmids, transposons, integrons and gene cassettes can unravel the complexity of antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture. Continuous monitoring programmes, timely detections of the resistant bacteria and implementation of proper regulations are necessary to curb the dissemination of AMR in aquaculture. The present review summarises the antimicrobial use and AMR in cultured fishes, genetic mechanisms involved in the development of resistance, and the management strategies to restrict the spread of AMR in aquaculture.

Psychological Empowerment as a Predictor of Employee Engagement: An Empirical Attestation

Abstract: Interest in psychological empowerment and employee engagement has increased substantially over the last decade among practitioners and academicians. However they have emerged independent of each ot...