Genome secrets of Indian oil sardine unearthed
In a major breakthrough in marine fisheries research, a team of scientists at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has decoded the whole genome of the Indian oil sardine, a popular food fish.
CMFRI Director Dr A Gopalakrishnan described this development as a ‘milestone’ in Indian marine fisheries, saying that the decoded genome will be a valuable resource for understanding the biology, ecology and evolution of the oil sardine (Sardinella longiceps).
“This critical genome data could be used to improve the management strategies for the conservation and sustainable utilisation of this fish,” he said.
The decoded genome is 1.077 Gb in size and contains a total of 46316 protein coding genes.
This landmark research accomplishment was achieved through the cutting-edge Next Generation Sequencing technology by a group of researchers led by Dr Sandhya Sukumaran, Principal Scientist at Marine Biotechnology division of the CMFRI. This research has been published in the high-impact journal Scientific Data of the Nature Group.
Indian oil sardine is a vital fisheries resource in the Indian subcontinent, contributing substantially, approximately 10 per cent, to the total marine fisheries industry in India.
Genetic and genomic investigations found that Indian oil sardines exist in two highly distinct stocks, one in Indian waters and another in the Gulf of Oman.
Fujifilm India tieup with Yashoda Hosp to set up gastro research facility
Fujifilm India, known for its healthcare imaging and information systems and Gastroenterology wing of Yashoda Hospitals have entered into a partnership to establish a training and research facility to help gastroenterologists enhance their skills in basic and advanced Gastro-endoscopy including Endoscopic Ultrasound procedures. The facility will also provide comprehensive training and observer ship programs to doctors from the Asia Pacific region, a press release said.
The MoU to this effect was signed at Yashoda Hospital Hitec City in the presence of Dr.A.Lingaiah, Director Medical Services, Yashoda Hospitals and Tatsuhiko Saeki , Global Head of Endoscopy division, Fujifilm Corporation, Tokyo, Dheeraj Chaudhri, Head, Department Fujifilm India, and Tomosuke Okada, Japanese Advisor, Fujifilm India.
“We wish that this partnership will positively impact patient care standards in various remote regions of the country with the help of continuous training programs,” Tatsuhiko Saeki said.
Dheeraj Chaudhri said that the new training facility will expose Gastroenterologists to the latest technology in Endoscopic Ultrasound System, ERCP and Third space including new technologies available for diagnostic endoscopy.
Gautam Solar Donates Medical Equipments to AIIMS Delhi Burns Ward
As a part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR), Gautam Solar, among India’s Top 10 solar module manufacturers recently donated to the Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Burns Surgery of the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Delhi, multiple medical equipments, including a shower trolley and multiple shower panels imported from a Sweden-headquartered global medical technology company. These equipment (which amount to more than Rs. 22 lakhs) are designed to bolster the hospitals capabilities in providing assistance and care for patients suffering from burns.
Dr Manish Singhal, HOD, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Burns Surgery at the hospital said, "This donation will be beneficial for patients as they need to be showered before surgery to reduce chance of infection. It was a painful process for them but using these machines, the process will be automated and they will experience less pain. These machines can be conveniently sanitized by the caregivers."
Gautam Mohanka, CEO of Gautam Solar added that the move aims to enhance healthcare quality. "Our commitment to CSR is about making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and communities.”