Fas receptor (CD95) & Fas ligand (CD178) expression in patients with tobacco-related intraoral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Fas receptor and Fas Ligand (FasL) system has been implicated in the resistance to apoptosis, insensitivity to chemotherapy and in providing immune privileged status to most of the tumours. However, no reports are available on Fas and FasL expression in patients with tobacco-related oral carcinoma. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to observe Fas and FasL expression and their correlation with clinicopathological features as well as cell cycle parameters.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry for Fas, FasL and DNA flow cytometry for cell cycle parameters was successfully done on 41 paraffin embedded tumour and 10 normal samples. The results were evaluated for possible association of Fas and FasL with clinicopathological features and cell cycle parameters.

RESULTS

Weak Fas expression was observed on the cell membrane only in 2 of 41 (5%) oral tumours while FasL immunoreactivity was seen in 26 of 41 (63.4%) tumours. In contrast, all ten normal oral tissues exhibited strong cytoplasmic and membrane Fas receptor immunoreactivity but absence of FasL staining. Older patients, greater tumour size and lymph node positivity were found to be associated with high expression of FasL. Significantly higher (P<0.01) expression of FasL was observed in oral tumours with aggressive DNA pattern like aneuploidy and high S-phase fraction.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS

Downregulation of Fas receptor and up-regulation of Fas ligand appear to be an important feature of tobacco-related intraoral carcinoma. Association of FasL expression with advanced clinical stage and aggressive DNA pattern suggests that the Fas and FasL system may be used as an important prognostic variable in patients with tobacco-related intraoral squamous cell carcinoma.

Thrombus inducing property of atomically thin graphene oxide sheets

Graphene oxide (GO), the new two-dimensional carbon nanomaterial, is extensively investigated for potential biomedical applications. Thus, it is pertinent to critically evaluate its untoward effects on physiology of tissue systems including blood platelets, the cells responsible for maintenance of hemostasis and thrombus formation. Here we report for the first time that atomically thin GO sheets elicited strong aggregatory response in platelets through activation of Src kinases and release of calcium from intracellular stores. Compounding this, intravenous administration of GO was found to induce extensive pulmonary thromboembolism in mice. Prothrombotic character of GO was dependent on surface charge distribution as reduced GO (RGO) was significantly less effective in aggregating platelets. Our findings raise a concern on putative biomedical applications of GO in the form of diagnostic and therapeutic tools where its prothrombotic property should be carefully investigated.

High prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis ('Indian bison type') in animal attendants suffering from gastrointestinal complaints who work with goat herds endemic for Johne's disease in India

OBJECTIVES

In this study we aimed to estimate the prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) in animal attendants who were chronic colitis patients or who had inflammatory bowel disease and were suspected for Crohn's disease; these animal attendants worked with goat herds endemic for Johne's disease. Microscopic examination and culture tests were used. For comparison purposes a group of healthy human subjects (not suffering with colitis) was also screened.

METHODS

Stool samples obtained from 98 human subjects (58 animal attendants suspected for Crohn's disease and 40 healthy humans) were screened for the presence of MAP by microscopic examination and culture. Of the 58 animal attendants screened, 38 had abdominal pain, 29 had suffered episodes of diarrhea, 39 had experienced weight loss, 27 had fever, and 32 had a history of raw milk consumption. Animal attendants had had contact of variable duration with goat herds endemic for Johne's disease (1-5, 6-10, 11-15, and >15 years). Forty stool samples from healthy humans with no symptoms/history of contact with animals were also screened. IS900 PCR and IS1311 PCR restriction endonuclease analysis were used to characterize and genotype the MAP colonies.

RESULTS

MAP was recovered from 34 of the 98 human subject stool samples (34.7%). Of the 98 samples, 16.3% (n=16) were acid-fast. None of the 40 healthy human subjects were positive for MAP by microscopy, but five (12.5%) were positive for MAP by culture. Of the 58 animal attendants, 16 (27.6%) were positive by microscopy and 29 (50%) were positive by culture. MAP were recovered from 68.4% of animal attendants with abdominal pain, 72.4% of those with diarrhea, 71.8% of those with weight loss, 44.4% of those with fever, and 46.9% of those who had a history of raw milk consumption. Of the 29 culture-positive animal attendants, 48.3% had worked for >15 years, 27.6% for 11-15 years, 20.7% for 6-10 years, and 3.4% for 1-5 years with goat herds endemic for Johne's disease. Of the 34 culture isolates, 28 (82.4%) showed good quality DNA on agarose gel and were positive by IS900 PCR. Of the 28 IS900-positive DNA samples, 23 (82.1%) were genotyped as 'Indian bison type' and five (17.9%) as 'cattle type'.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of MAP was higher in attendants suffering from gastrointestinal problems who worked with goat herds endemic for Johne's disease, than in humans with no history of contact with animals. The risk of developing gastrointestinal problems with clinical symptoms indistinguishable from inflammatory bowel disease was higher in humans who were in contact with goat herds endemic for Johne's disease as compared to healthy humans, and the risk was correlated with the duration of association with the endemic goat herds.

Derivation of buffalo embryonic stem-like cells from in vitro-produced blastocysts on homologous and heterologous feeder cells

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study is to compare the ability of homologous and heterologous embryonic fibroblast feeder layers to support isolation and proliferation of buffalo ES-like cells generated from hatched and expanded blastocysts produced by in vitro fertilization and characterization of derived cells through expression of pluripotent markers.

METHODS

Embryonic stem cells were derived from hatched and expanded blastocysts through intact blastocyst culture and enzymatic method respectively and compared for proliferation rate on homologous (buffalo) and heterologous feeder layers (goat and sheep).

RESULTS

A total of 69 hatched and 83 expanded blastocysts were used for isolation of inner cell masses which were seeded on buffalo, goat and sheep embryonic feeder layers. Following seeding, attachment rate, primary colony formation rate and survival to maximum number of passages were observed to be higher on homologous feeder layers.

CONCLUSIONS

Upon comparison of different feeder layer cells for derivation and maintenance of buffalo ES-like cells from hatched and expanded blastocysts, buffalo embryonic fibroblast cells were able to provide a better environment for maintaining pluripotency in culture conditions.

Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryonic stem cell-like cells and preimplantation embryos exhibit comparable expression of pluripotency-related antigens

In this study, inner cell mass (ICM) cells were isolated from in vitro produced buffalo blastocysts and were cultured on mitomycin-C treated buffalo foetal fibroblast feeder layer for producing embryonic stem (ES) cells. Among different sources (hatched vs expanded blastocysts) or methods (enzymatic vs mechanical), mechanical isolation of ICM from hatched blastocysts resulted in the highest primary colony formation rate and the maximum passage number up to which ES cells survived. Putative ES cells expressed alkaline phosphatase and exhibited a normal karyotype up to passage 7. Putative ES cells and embryos at 2- to 4-cell, 8- to 16-cell, morula and blastocyst stages strongly expressed stage-specific embryonic antigen (SSEA)-4 but lacked expressions of SSEA-1 and SSEA-3. Putative ES cells also expressed tumour rejection antigen (TRA)-1-60, TRA-1-81 and Oct4. Whereas in all early embryonic stages, TRA-1-60 was observed only in the periplasmic space, and TRA-1-81 expression was observed as small spots at a few places inside the embryos, both these markers were expressed by ICM. Oct4 expression, which was observed at all the embryonic stages and also in the trophectoderm, was the strongest in the ICM. Buffalo putative ES cells possess a unique pluripotency-related surface antigen phenotype, which resembles that of the ICM.

Correlation of cyclin D1 expression with aggressive DNA pattern in patients with tobacco-related intraoral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Cyclin D1 has been strongly implicated in cell proliferation particularly in the G1/S checkpoint of the cell cycle, and prognoses in human malignancies. We investigated the correlation between cyclin D1 overexpression and clinicopathological features as well as cell cycle parameters to understand its clinical significance in patients with tobacco-related oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry for cyclin D1 and DNA flowcytometry for cell cycle parameters was done on paraffin embedded tumour samples from 45 patients with OSCC RESULTS: Higher expression of cyclin D1 was observed only in 30 (66.6%) of 45 cases that correlated with advanced age (P <0.02), higher tumour stage (P<0.01), histological differentiation and lymph node metastasis (P <0.01). Analysis of nuclear DNA pattern revealed cyclin D1 immunoreactivity in tumours with aggressive DNA pattern such as aneuploidy (P<0.05) and higher S phase fraction (P<0.04).

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS

Higher expression of cyclin D1 in oral cancer appears to be closely linked to cell proliferation, differentiation and lymph node invasion. Pre-operative evaluation of cyclin D1 in biopsy specimen may be useful in planning the most appropriate treatment strategies in patients with tobacco-related OSCC.

Intracranial tuberculomas in patients with tuberculous meningitis: predictors and prognostic significance

SETTING

Intracranial tuberculomas are commonly observed neuroimaging abnormalities in tuberculous meningitis (TBM).

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the predictors and prognostic significance of tuberculomas in patients with TBM.

DESIGN

In a retrospective follow-up study, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging was performed at study inclusion and after 9 months of follow-up. Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis were used to identify predictive factors for tuberculoma. Prognosis (death and severe disability) was assessed using the modified Rankin scale.

RESULTS

At inclusion, 43 of 110 patients had cerebral tuberculomas. Seven patients developed paradoxical tuberculomas. Predictors of tuberculomas were raised cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein (>3 g/l) and meningeal enhancement. Multivariate analysis did not show any significant predictors. During follow-up, the only significant predictor of paradoxical development of tuberculomas was raised CSF protein (>3 g/l). After 9 months of follow-up, 32 patients had died or had severe disability. Survival analysis revealed that patients with tuberculomas and those without tuberculomas had a similar prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Tuberculomas occurred in approximately 39% of the patients with TBM. Significant predictors were meningeal enhancement and raised CSF protein. TBM patients with or without tuberculomas had a similar prognosis.

Nerve conduction studies in paucibacillary and multibacillary leprosy: a comparative evaluation

Involvement of peripheral nerves in patients with leprosy results in sensory, motor and autonomic dysfunctions along with deformities and disability. Pattern of nerve involvement is different for different forms of leprosy. In this study, we evaluated and compared the nerve conduction parameters of paucibacillary leprosy with that of multibacillary leprosy. In this study, 40 consecutive patients of leprosy (19 cases of paucibacillary and 21 cases of multibacillary leprosy) were included. Nerve conduction studies were performed according to the standard procedure described in the manual of the machine. We observed that patients with multibacillary leprosy had significantly more severe changes in nerve conduction parameters as compared to that of paucibacillary leprosy. In paucibacillary leprosy, the dominant pattern of nerve involvement was that of mononeuropathy, however, in 6 paucibacillary cases the nerve involvement was in form of mononeuritis multiplex. Electrophysiological assessment also revealed involvement of clinically uninvolved nerves. Nerve conduction parameters were suggestive of mixed axonal as well as demyelination of the peripheral nerves.

Cysticercal encephalitis with cortical blindness

The authors report a 6-year-old boy, who had presented with low-grade fever, altered sensorium, headache and seizure for 5 days. On examination, he had features of raised intracranial pressure with left VI cranial-nerve palsy and bilateral extensor plantar response. CT scan showed multiple calcifications in cerebral cortex. MRI cranium showed multiple cysts involving whole of the brain. He was diagnosed as having cysticercal encephalitis, based on immunological and imaging study. He was managed with 20% mannitol, phenytoin and albendazole, and regained consciousness 7 days later, but had residual neurological deficit as left-lower-limb monoparesis and visual acuity of just projection of rays (PR+) and perception of light (PL+).

Predictors of stroke in patients of tuberculous meningitis and its effect on the outcome

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a devastating complication of tuberculous meningitis and is an important determinant of its outcome.

AIM

To prospectively evaluate the predictive factors for stroke in patients with tuberculous meningitis and to assess the impact of stroke on the overall prognosis and outcome.

METHODS

We evaluated and followed 100 patients of tuberculous meningitis for 6 months. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at inclusion and after 6 months. We evaluated the predictors of stroke and also assessed the effect of stroke on the outcome. Outcome was defined with the help of modified Rankin scale.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients, 6 lost to follow-up. Thirty patients had stroke, 27 of them had stroke at inclusion. Three patients developed stroke during follow-up. In most of the patients, stroke was a manifestation of advanced stages of tuberculous meningitis. Internal capsule/basal ganglia were the most frequently involved sites. Infarcts commonly involved the middle cerebral arterial territory. On univariate analysis, predictors of stroke were aged >25 years (P < 0.001), cranial nerve involvement (P < 0.001), sylvian fissure exudates (P = 0.026), posterior fossa exudates (P = 0.016), optic chiasmal exudates (P = 0.04) and vision impairment (P = 0.004). Stage III tuberculous meningitis (P < 0.001) was also a predictor of stroke. On multivariate analysis aged >25 years was found a significant predictor of stroke. Strokes in patients with tuberculous meningitis were associated with poor prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Stroke occurred in 30% of cases with tuberculous meningitis. Advanced stage of tuberculous meningitis, basal exudates, optochiasmatic arachnoiditis and vision impairment were significant predictors of stroke. Stroke independently predicted the poor outcome of tuberculous meningitis.

Mixed gonadal dysgenesis with normal karyotype: a rare case report

Mixed gonadal dysgenesis (MGD) presents as a unilateral testis, usually intraabdominal, a streak gonad on contralateral side, and persistent mullerian structures. 45X/45XY karyotype is most frequent in such cases with predominance of 45X cells in both peripheral lymphocytes and gonads. We present a rare case of a left undescended testis, normally descended right testis, with penoscrotal hypospadias, who had a normal karyotype and whose histopathological findings were endometrial tissue and fallopian tube in left testicular biopsy. Gonadal dysgenesis should always be kept a possibility in patient with undescended testis and proximal hypospadias. If karyotype reveals a 46XY gonadal dysgenesis, these patients need all the more careful follow-up to screen for gonadoblastoma in remaining normal testis. Subjecting the patients to prophylactic orchidectomy with hormone replacement can be an additional option in such patients.

Well-differentiated mesenteric liposarcoma with osseous metaplasia: a potential diagnostic dilemma for the pathologist

BACKGROUND

Mesenteric liposarcoma is a rare intra-abdominal sarcoma with very few cases reported in the available English literature. Incomplete resection of the tumor leads to recurrence, and recurrent tumors carry a risk of dedifferentiation. Dedifferentiation in liposarcoma manifests as a nonlipogenic sarcoma, which is usually high-grade and may show osteosarcomatous differentiation rarely. To the best of our knowledge, osteoid metaplasia in a well-differentiated liposarcoma without evidence of dedifferentiation has not been documented in the available literature.

CASE

We describe the case of a middle-aged adult man with a well-differentiated liposarcoma of the mesentery. The patient presented with a recurrent tumor 5 years after the initial surgery. At recurrence, the histological features were those of a well-differentiated liposarcoma with focal osseous metaplasia without any evidence of dedifferentiation in the extensive sections examined.

CONCLUSION

Osseous metaplasia is a rare phenomenon in lipomas and dedifferentiated liposarcomas. Such an occurrence in a recurrent well-differentiated liposarcoma is a perplexing problem due to the potential confusion with dedifferentiation. This needs to be recognized to avoid overzealous chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, which is required for dedifferentiated tumors.

Atomic-scale observation of rotational misorientation in suspended few-layer graphene sheets

Single or few-layer graphene (FLG) sheets offer extraordinary electronic, thermal and mechanical properties and are expected to find a variety of applications. Fully exploiting the properties of graphene will require a method for the production of high-quality graphene sheets (almost pristine graphene) in large quantities. In this regard, we report a two-step method for obtaining a homogenous colloidal suspension of single or FLG sheets up to 0.15 mg ml(-1) in N,N-dimethylformamide solution. The graphene nanostructures are directly imaged using a high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) operated at 200 kV with a point resolution of 0.16 nm. We observed rotational misorientation within the flake in the HRTEM images of 2, 4 and 6 layers of graphene sheets, giving rise to Moiré patterns. By filtering in the frequency domain using a Fourier transform, we reconstruct the graphene lattice of each sheet and determine the relative rotation between consecutive graphene layers up, to six separate sheets. Direct evidence is obtained for FLG sheets with packing that is different to the standard AB Bernal packing of bulk graphite. Furthermore, we observed periodic ripples in suspended graphene sheets in our TEM measurements. Electrostatic force microscopy was used to characterize the electric potential distribution on the surface of FLG sheets on SiO2/Si substrates in ambient conditions. The FLG sheets were found to exhibit a conducting nature with small potential variations on the surface.

Ferromagnetic behaviour of nickel contacted multiwalled carbon nanotubes

A novel method for the contact of ferromagnetic nano-nickel onto multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) is proposed in this work. The process involves the decomposition of the precursor: nickel carbonyl-Ni(CO)4 into nickel and CO by laser chemical vapour deposition at 150-200 degrees C and the deposition of nano-nickel onto MWCNTs. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), HR (High resolution) TEM, and Raman spectroscopy were employed for the detailed analysis of the nickel contacted MWCNTs. The ferro-magnetic nature of the sample was confirmed by Super-conducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) analysis.

Synthesis and field emission properties of ultra-nanocrystalline diamond fibers and helices

We propose a novel template method for large scale synthesis of Ultra-Nanocrystalline Diamond (UNCD) fibres and helices with lengths of thousands of microns and diameters ranging from 0.5 to 5 microm: (i) Large quantities of submicrometer- or nanometer-diameter silica (a-SiO2) nanostructures, with lengths in the order of 2 to 4 mm, were synthesized by Vapor-Liquid-Solid (VLS) method; (ii) UNCD coating of as-synthesized a-SiO2 micro- or nanonanostructures by Microwave Plasma Chemical Vapour Deposition (MPCVD) technique in hydrogen-deficient condition. Electron Field Emission (EFE) of as-synthesized UNCD structures was observed with a threshold field of 3.4 V/microm. These micro- or nanostructures may find potential applications in high power electronics, vertical field-effect transistors in vacuum electronics, heat sinks in microelectronics and structural materials in Micro- and Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS). The successful preparation of various types of UNCD structures suggests that this templating process can be used for a wide range of materials.

UV emission from patterned growth of ZnO nanowires

Patterned and high-density ZnO nanowires were fabricated on a large area P type silicon (100) through Vapor-Liquid-Solid approach. An aluminium mask was used for the patterned deposition of gold catalyst. ZnO nanowires grown with the aid of gold catalyst were well aligned and had dimensions of 30-80 nm diameter and 0.5-2 microm length. The perfect crystallinity and orientation [0002] of the nanowires were confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). Low-temperature photoluminescence spectrum exhibits an intensive UV emission at approximately 380 nm and a weak broad green band at approximately 530 nm which is detected under an optical excitation of 325 nm wavelength of He-Cd laser. These arrays of ZnO nanowires could have myriad applications in nanolasers, optoelectronic devices and optical interconnects.

New cryogenic phase transitions in SrSnO3

Strontium stannate is under study as an ultra-stable dielectric material for microelectronic applications at low temperatures. It is known to have a remarkably temperature-independent dielectric constant from 27 K to room temperature. However, we report anomalies in the Raman spectra, dielectric response, and differential thermal analysis of strontium stannate compatible with a structural phase transition at 160 K. Further anomalies are seen in calorimetric and Raman data (but not dielectric data) that suggest another phase transition at 270 K. A preliminary x-ray powder diffraction study confirms a small change in the pseudo-cubic lattice constant a(T) at the lower transition.

Human papillomavirus genotypes in anal intraepithelial neoplasia and anal carcinoma as detected in tissue biopsies

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection strongly correlates with the development of anal intraepithelial neoplasias and carcinomas; however, few studies have characterized the distribution of the specific subtypes of the virus in the varying grades of dysplasia. This report characterizes the distribution of HPV 16/18 in surgical specimens with anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) I-III and histological variants of anal carcinoma. A total of 111 anal surgical specimens with no dysplasia (10), AIN I-III (53), and anal carcinomas (48) were evaluated for the presence of high-risk HPV infection and subtyped by nested PCR or the Invader Assay. High-risk virus types were detected in progressively greater number of anal intraepithelial lesions from 56% in low grade to 88% in high grade. Type 16 was the prevalent subtype and was noted in 28% of low grade and 68% of high-grade lesions. Moderate dysplasias showed type 16 in 20%, a prevalence similar to that in low-grade lesions. The non-16/18 subtypes of the virus predominated and were present in 50% of the cases. Most (89%) squamous carcinomas were associated with high-risk viruses, 68% with type 16, a prevalence similar to that noted in high-grade dysplasia. Non-16/18 subtypes were encountered more frequently in squamous carcinomas from immunodeficient individuals (57% cases) as compared with immunocompetent individuals (18% cases). The similarity in the prevalence of type 16 in high-grade dysplasia and squamous carcinomas suggests that anal intraepithelial lesion III is the true precursor of squamous carcinoma and warrants aggressive management. Anal intraepithelial lesions II showed a virus distribution that was similar to low-grade dysplasia. In addition, a subset of these that were associated with type 16 or 18 showed progression, whereas those associated with non-16/18 subtypes regressed, thereby raising the possibility of conservative management for these lesions.

Role of the GNOM gene in Arabidopsis apical-basal patterning--From mutant phenotype to cellular mechanism of protein action

How the apical-basal axis of polarity is established in embryogenesis is still a mystery in plant development. This axis appeared specifically compromised by mutations in the Arabidopsis GNOM gene. Surprisingly, GNOM encodes an ARF guanine-nucleotide exchange factor (ARF-GEF) that regulates the formation of vesicles in membrane trafficking. In-depth functional analysis of GNOM and its closest relative, GNOM-LIKE 1 (GNL1), has provided a mechanistic explanation for the development-specific role of a seemingly mundane trafficking regulator. The current model proposes that GNOM is specifically involved in the endosomal recycling of the auxin-efflux carrier PIN1 to the basal plasma membrane in provascular cells, which in turn is required for the accumulation of the plant hormone auxin at the future root pole through polar auxin transport. Thus, the analysis of GNOM highlights the importance of cell-biological processes for a mechanistic understanding of development.

Duloxetine for treatment of male sphincteric incontinence following partial conus medullaris infarction after coronary bypass surgery

Introduction

Vascular spinal cord injury following coronary bypass grafting surgery is very rare and this is probably one of few reports of a presumptive partial conus medullaris lesion leading to sudden onset bladder and bowel incontinence which was managed using duloxetine, a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Duloxetine has been used in selected patients with post-prostatectomy sphincteric incontinence but not, to our knowledge, for spinal vascular lesions.

Case presentation

A 63-year-old Indian man developed bladder and bowel incontinence immediately following coronary bypass grafting surgery. Findings were suggestive of microcirculatory partial conus medullaris infarction. Based on his urodynamics findings he was managed with duloxetine, tolterodine and clean intermittent catheterization. The clinical presentation, serial urodynamic findings and implications are discussed.

Conclusion

Spinal injury following coronary bypass grafting is rare and devastating. It is important to be able to recognize the problem even when paraplegia is not noted, counsel the patient and manage the patient with the help of urodynamics. In patients with sphincteric incontinence, duloxetine may have a role in management.

Preservation of recipient middle hepatic vein for drainage of anterior sector veins in adult-to-adult living-donor liver transplantation

The inclusion of donor middle hepatic vein (MHV) in right-lobe living-donor grafts and the need for reconstruction of the MHV tributaries have long been controversial areas in living-donor liver transplantation. We report technical details in restoration of venous drainage of the anterior sector (segments V and VIII) of the right lobe of the liver graft using a preserved MHV from the recipient liver, and address the issue of reconstruction of donor MHV tributaries without use of an interposition graft. We review clinical situations in which restoration of outflow drainage of the anterior segment of the liver graft should be considered.

Clinical profile and outcome of children presenting with poisoning or intoxication: a hospital based study

Poisoning is a common preventable cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Most of the poisoning in children less than 5 years of age is accidental. Objective of the study was to study the clinical profile and outcome of childhood poisoning and intoxication. This was a retrospective study done in patients who were admitted in pediatric wards and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences with history of ingestion of poison or intoxication or envenomation firom January 2005 to June 2008. The data collected were analyzed with SPSS 12.0 software. There were 122 children enrolled in study. Male: female ratio was 1.4:1. The mean age of presentation was 5.8 years. Among 122 patients, 43.4% received pre-referral treatment in the form of gastric lavage, atropine etc. Organophosphorus poisoning was the commonest poisoning seen in 55 (45.1%) patients followed by hydrocarbon 12 (9.8%), mushroom 10 (8.2%) and organochlorine 10 (8.2%) poisoning. During treatment, 50.0% received antidotes. 55.7% received antibiotics, gastric lavage and anticonvulsants were required in 43.4% and 13.9% respectively. Overall survival was 87.4%. The time interval between intoxication and presentation to hospital, mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and presence of coma (GCS <8) were significantly different between survivors and expired cases. In conclusion, organophosphorus is the commonest agent involved in childhood poisoning. Overall, the outcome is good with 87.4% survival in our hospital. The time gap between the poisoning and presentation to hospital and presence of coma predict mortality.

Removal of malachite green from dye wastewater using neem sawdust by adsorption

Neem sawdust (Azadirachta indica) was used as an adsorbent for the removal of malachite green dye from an aqueous solution. The studies were carried out under various experimental conditions such as agitation time, dye concentration, adsorption dose, pH and temperature to assess the potentiality of neem sawdust for the removal of malachite green dye from wastewater. A greater percentage of dye removal was observed with decrease in the initial concentration of dye and increase in amount of adsorbent. The adsorption of dye on neem sawdust was found to follow a gradual process. Equilibrium isotherms were analysed by the Langmuir models of adsorption and were applicable with maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of 4.354 mg g(-1). The dimensionless factor, R(L) of the malachite green, neem sawdust isotherm revealed that the adsorption process is favourable in nature.

Nerve, muscle or bone disease? Look before you leap

Severe muscle weakness in osteomalacia may mimic a primary neuromuscular disorder like spinal muscular atrophy. A 32-year-old woman, initially diagnosed as a case of spinal muscular atrophy based on clinical presentation, electromyography and muscle biopsy, was later found to have osteomalacic myopathy due to primary hyperparathyroidism complicated by vitamin D deficiency. Before diagnosing a progressive, inevitably fatal degenerative condition like spinal muscular atrophy, one must rule out all possible treatable conditions with a similar presentation.

Time-resolved single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy of Cy5-dCTP: influence of the immobilization strategy

The carbocyanine derivative Cy5 is one of the most utilized probes for single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy. To investigate time dependent changes in single molecules a number of immobilization techniques are used. In the present study the influence of the immobilization strategy on the fluorescence lifetime of Cy5-dCTP has been investigated using time-resolved single molecule imaging and spectroscopy techniques. The fluorescence lifetime of single dye molecule adsorbed on glass from aqueous solution (1.03 ns) or on a dry surface (1.23 ns) has been found to match very well with that measured in an ensemble aqueous solution (1.07 ns). However, the lifetime increases drastically when embedded in a film (approximately 2 ns). The changes in the rigidity of the medium have been found to be responsible for the unusual increase observed in the single molecule fluorescence lifetime of the dye. These observations were well supported by the results obtained during bulk measurements.

A design chart for estimation of horizontal displacement in municipal landfills

This paper describes the development of a design chart for the estimation of maximum horizontal displacement within a municipal landfill using the height and the side slope of the landfill. The design chart is based on the results of a finite element parametric study in which the behaviour of the municipal solid waste (MSW) was modeled using a non-linear elastic hyperbolic model. The model input parameters, i.e. non-linear stiffness, shear strength and unit weight of MSW, were obtained from laboratory testing data and an extensive stochastic numerical modelling exercise. Non-linear variations of unit weight as well as Young's modulus of MSW with depth were incorporated in the finite element analyses. The validity of the design chart was assessed using field monitoring results from a large landfill located in Ontario, Canada.

Recanalized umbilical vein conduit for meso-Rex bypass in extrahepatic portal vein obstruction

BACKGROUND

Meso-Rex bypass is used to treat patients with clinically important extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO). Usually, an autologous left internal jugular vein graft is used to bypass the portal blood circulation from the superior mesenteric vein to the left portal vein. Other vascular conduits have included the autogenous saphenous vein, splenic vein, right gastroepiploic vein, and inferior mesenteric vein.

METHODS

A total of 20 umbilical veins with attached livers were harvested from 20 deceased liver donors. Umbilical veins were dilated mechanically and checked for patency and communication with the left portal vein. Vein length and diameter after dilatation were recorded. Cross-sections of 15 recanalized umbilical veins were processed by routine histologic examination and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, as well as processed by immunohistochemistry for CD31 and factor VIII antigens. Subsequently, 3 children with EHPVO underwent this modified meso-Rex bypass using the umbilical vein as a vascular conduit.

RESULTS

The mean length of harvested umbilical veins was 15 cm (range, 7-21); the mean length of recanalized and usable umbilical veins was 10 cm (range, 5-15). Recanalization was successful in 16 (80%) of the 20 donor umbilical veins. The mean diameter of the umbilical veins after serial dilatation and recanalization was 1.2 cm (range, 1-2). In 11 (73%) of the 15 recanalized vein specimens, the lumen was lined by endothelial cells. In 2 children, the vascular conduit was constructed entirely with native umbilical vein. In the remaining child, 3 cm of umbilical vein was preserved and anastomosed to a mobilized inferior mesenteric vein due to inadequate length. All 3 children had patent bypass and resolution of clinical manifestations of portal hypertension at a mean follow-up of 21 months.

CONCLUSION

Meso-Rex bypass may prove to be a definitive treatment for patients with EHPVO. The use of native umbilical vein as a vein conduit achieved decompression of the splanchnic venous system and should be considered a natural alternative to other interposition vein grafts.

The Almeida-Thouless line in BiFeO(3): is bismuth ferrite a mean field spin glass?

Low-temperature magnetic properties of epitaxial BiFeO(3) (BFO) thin films grown on (111) SrTiO(3) substrates have been studied. Zero-field-cooled and field-cooled magnetization curves show a large discrepancy beginning at a characteristic temperature T(f) that is dependent on the magnetic field strength. T(f)(H) varies according to the well known de Almeida-Thouless line [Formula: see text] suggesting an acentric long-range spin-glass behavior and mean field system.

Vascular hamartoma of the paranasal sinuses: report of 3 rare cases and a short review of the literature

The paranasal sinuses are an extremely unusual location for a vascular hamartoma. As far as we know, only 1 such case has been previously reported in the English-language literature. We report 3 new cases of vascular hamartoma of the paranasal sinuses, which occurred in a 20-year-old woman and in 2 men aged 36 and 45 years. Radiologically, the lesion in the woman was confined to the sinuses, while evidence of intraorbital extension was seen in the 2 men. No intracranial extension was seen in any patient. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathologic examination of the excised lesions. All 3 patients were alive without recurrence at 12 to 24 months of follow-up.

The co-existence of CHARGE and myelodysplastic syndrome in a child

We report the case of an 8-month-old female child with co-existence of CHARGE with myelodysplastic syndrome, which is not reported in the literature. The patient was treated with packed cell transfusion, laser photocoagulation for retinal detachment, and antimicrobials, and referred for bone marrow transplantation.

No association of ABCB1 polymorphisms with drug-refractory epilepsy in a north Indian population

Multiple drug resistance is a common problem in the treatment of epilepsy, and approximately 30% of patients continue to have seizures despite all therapeutic interventions. Among various classes of drug transporters, genetic variants of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) encoded by the ABCB1 (ATP-binding cassette subfamily B member 1) gene have been associated with drug-refractory epilepsy. Our aim was to investigate the effect of the 1236C>T(rs1128503), 2677G>T/A(rs2032582), and 3435C>T(rs1045642) single-nucleotide polymorphisms of ABCB1 (or MDR1) on drug resistance in north Indian patients with epilepsy. Genotyping was performed in 101 control subjects and 325 patients with epilepsy, of whom 94 were drug resistant and 231 drug responsive. Therapeutic drug monitoring for phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and valproate was also performed to confirm compliance in 20% of the patients. Genotype and haplotype frequencies of these polymorphisms did not differ between drug-resistant and drug-responsive patients. Our results demonstrate ABCB1 polymorphisms are not associated with drug resistance in north Indian epileptic patients.

Vascular Hamartoma of the Paranasal Sinuses: Report of 3 Rare Cases and a Short Review of the Literature

The paranasal sinuses are an extremely unusual location for a vascular hamartoma. As far as we know, only 1 such case has been previously reported in the English-language literature. We report 3 new cases of vascular hamartoma of the paranasal sinuses, which occurred in a 20-year-old woman and in 2 men aged 36 and 45 years. Radiologically, the lesion in the woman was confined to the sinuses, while evidence of intraorbital extension was seen in the 2 men. No intracranial extension was seen in any patient. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathologic examination of the excised lesions. All 3 patients were alive without recurrence at 12 to 24 months of follow-up.

Characterization of tumefactive demyelinating lesions using MR imaging and in-vivo proton MR spectroscopy

Background and Objectives

Diagnosis of tumefactive demyelinating lesions (TDLs) is challenging to both clinicians and radiologists. Our objective in this study was to analyze and characterize these lesions clinically, biochemically, electrophysiologically, and on imaging.

Methods

A retrospective analysis with prospective follow-up of 18 cases of TDLs was performed. Imaging included T2-, T1-weighted, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), post-contrast T1-weighted, diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (PMRS).

Results

All the lesions appeared hyperintense on T2 and FLAIR images. Increased Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) (0.93–2.21 × 10−3 mm2/s) in centre of the lesion was seen in 14/18 cases; however, peripheral restriction (ADC values 0.55–0.64 × 10−3 mm2/s) was noted in 11/18 cases. In all, 13/18 cases showed contrast enhancement with open ring ( n = 5), complete ring ( n = 1), minimal ( n = 4), and infiltrative ( n = 3) pattern of enhancement. Nine of these 13 cases also showed venular enhancement. On PMRS, nine showed glutamate/glutamine (Glx) at 2.4 ppm.

Conclusion

Clinical features along with several MRI characteristics such as open ring enhancement, peripheral restriction on DWI, venular enhancement, and presence of Glx on spectroscopy may be rewarding in differentiating TDLs from neoplastic lesions.

Prognostic significance of Her2/neu overexpression in patients with muscle invasive urinary bladder cancer treated with radical cystectomy

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to evaluate the status of Her2/neu protein expression in patients with muscle-invasive urothelial carcinomas of the bladder treated with radical cystectomy and to determine its prognostic significance.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 90 patients who had undergone cystectomy for invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder. Immunohistochemical analysis for Her2/neu was done on paraffin-fixed tissues with CB11 antibodies (BioGenex, San Ramon, CA, USA). Sections with grade 2 and grade 3 staining were considered positive for Her2/neu.

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up period of 46 months (24-96 months) 46 patients are living without disease recurrence and six with recurrent disease either at the local site or with distant metastases. The remaining 38 patients have died. The median overall survival time was 50 months, and median disease-free survival time was 40 months. The Her2/neu status was significantly related to the tumor stage (P = 0.001), lymph node involvement (77% in N+ vs 23% in N0; P = 0.001) and the grade of the disease (32% of grade 2 vs 71% of grade 3; P = 0.037). Kaplan-Meier curves showed a significantly worse disease-related survival period (log rank P = 0.011) for patients with Her2 overexpressing tumors than for those without overexpression. In addition to tumor stage [P = 0.001; relative risk (RR) = 2.62] and lymph node status (P = 0.0001; RR = 2.95), Her2 status (P = 0.020; RR = 2.22) was identified as an independent predictor for disease-related survival in a multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that Her2 expression might provide additional prognostic information for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Future studies on Her2 expression with chemosensitivity and the efficacy of Her2-targeted therapies in urothelial carcinomas are warranted.

Brain tumours in children

A 10 years old, female patient presented with symptoms of abnormal movement of the body for 5 years, deviation of mouth to left side for 12 days and difficulty in walking for 12 days. We report a very rare case of Brain Stem gliomas. Clinical and imaging findings were suggestive of brain stem gliomas.

A cysteine-rich receptor-like kinase NCRK and a pathogen-induced protein kinase RBK1 are Rop GTPase interactors

In plants, Rop/Rac GTPases have emerged as central regulators of diverse signalling pathways in plant growth and pathogen defence. When active, they interact with a wide range of downstream effectors. Using yeast two-hybrid screening we have found three previously uncharacterized receptor-like protein kinases to be Rop GTPase-interacting molecules: a cysteine-rich receptor kinase, named NCRK, and two receptor-like cytosolic kinases from the Arabidopsis RLCK-VIb family, named RBK1 and RBK2. Uniquely for Rho-family small GTPases, plant Rop GTPases were found to interact directly with the protein kinase domains. Rop4 bound NCRK preferentially in the GTP-bound conformation as determined by flow cytometric fluorescence resonance energy transfer measurements in insect cells. The kinase RBK1 did not phosphorylate Rop4 in vitro, suggesting that the protein kinases are targets for Rop signalling. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays demonstrated that Rop4 interacted in vivo with NCRK and RBK1 at the plant plasma membrane. In Arabidopsis protoplasts, NCRK was hyperphosphorylated and partially co-localized with the small GTPase RabF2a in endosomes. Gene expression analysis indicated that the single-copy NCRK gene was relatively upregulated in vasculature, especially in developing tracheary elements. The seven Arabidopsis RLCK-VIb genes are ubiquitously expressed in plant development, and highly so in pollen, as in case of RBK2. We show that the developmental context of RBK1 gene expression is predominantly associated with vasculature and is also locally upregulated in leaves exposed to Phytophthora infestans and Botrytis cinerea pathogens. Our data indicate the existence of cross-talk between Rop GTPases and specific receptor-like kinases through direct molecular interaction.

Verrucous tuberculid mimicking Kyrle disease

Cutaneous tuberculosis shows wide clinical variation depending upon the virulence of the organism and host immunity. Tuberculids are difficult to diagnose since the organism often cannot be identified or isolated by microscopy, culture or polymerase chain reaction. The diagnosis rests primarily on the identification of a tuberculous focus elsewhere in the body and response to antitubercular therapy. We present the clinicopathological features of an unusual tuberculid in a 30-year-old man, remarkably mimicking Kyrle's disease. He presented with multiple, symmetrically distributed follicular and perifollicular verrucous papules, nodules and plaques on the face, earlobes and extremities since 4 years. Histopathology revealed parakeratotic follicular plug invaginating into the dermis with multiple caseating epithelioid cell granulomas. PCR for M. tuberculosis was negative. The identification of associated axillary tubercular lymphadenitis, strongly positive Mantoux reaction, tuberculoid granulomas on histopathology and complete resolution of the lesions with antitubercular therapy helped in making the diagnosis. We propose the term "verrucous tuberculid" for this entity.

Incidence of congenital heart disease in tertiary care hospital

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The present study was under taken to determine the spectrum, clinical profile and outcome of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) admitted to a tertiary care hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective, observational hospital based study conducted during January 2006 to December 2006. Out of 14461 admissions, 84 were cases of CHD. Only patients with echocardiographic proof of CHD were included in the study. Detailed clinical and laboratory findings and outcome of all cases were noted in pre-structured formats. Data were entered in MS-excel. Data was analyzed by software SPSS version 10.

RESULTS

The incidence of CHD was 5.8 per 1000 hospitalized patients. Out of 84 CHD cases, 51 were males and 33 females; with a male to female ratio of 1.5:1. CHD presented more frequently during infancy (46 %). Acyanotic heart disease was detected in 58 (69 %) cases while cyanotic heart disease was detected in 26 (31%) cases. Among acyanotic heart disease, ventricular septal defect (VSD) was found in 49 (58.3%), atrial septal defect (ASD) in 4 patients (4.8%), endocardial cushion defect (ECD) in 2 patients (2.4%) and dextrocardia was found in 3 patients (3.6%). Among cyanotic heart disease, Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) accounted for 13.1%, total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) 3.6%, transposition of great arteries (TGA) with VSD 1.2% and unspecified cases of heart disease was found in 13.1%. VSD and TOF were the most common lesions while other CHD like ASD, dextrocardia, TAPVC, ECD, TGA with VSD were encountered less frequently. The most common clinical presentations were failure to thrive (FTT) and developmental delay (86.9%), breathlessness (69%), lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) (52%), congestive cardiac failure (CCF) (46%), cyanosis (20.2%), cyanotic spell (9.5%) and infective endocarditis (9.5%). The mortality rate was 20 %.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of CHD was 5.8 per thousand hospitalized children. VSD, TOF were the most common congenital cardiac lesion. VSD was observed either isolated or associated with other lesions like TGA. The mortality rate was 20 %. The mortality usually occurred in those patients complicated with congestive cardiac failure, lower respiratory tract infection and infective endocarditis.

Comparison of slope stability in two Brazilian municipal landfills

The implementation of landfill gas to energy (LFGTE) projects has greatly assisted in reducing the greenhouse gases and air pollutants, leading to an improved local air quality and reduced health risks. The majority of cities in developing countries still dispose of their municipal waste in uncontrolled 'open dumps.' Municipal solid waste landfill construction practices and operating procedures in these countries pose a challenge to implementation of LFGTE projects because of concern about damage to the gas collection infrastructure (horizontal headers and vertical wells) caused by minor, relatively shallow slumps and slides within the waste mass. While major slope failures can and have occurred, such failures in most cases have been shown to involve contributory factors or triggers such as high pore pressures, weak foundation soil or failure along weak geosynthetic interfaces. Many researchers who have studied waste mechanics propose that the shear strength of municipal waste is sufficient such that major deep-seated catastrophic failures under most circumstances require such contributory factors. Obviously, evaluation of such potential major failures requires expert analysis by geotechnical specialists with detailed site-specific information regarding foundation soils, interface shearing resistances and pore pressures both within the waste and in clayey barrier layers or foundation soils. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the potential use of very simple stability analyses which can be used to study the potential for slumps and slides within the waste mass and which may represent a significant constraint on construction and development of the landfill, on reclamation and closure and on the feasibility of a LFGTE project. The stability analyses rely on site-specific but simple estimates of the unit weight of waste and the pore pressure conditions and use "generic" published shear strength envelopes for municipal waste. Application of the slope stability analysis method is presented in a case study of two Brazilian landfill sites; the Cruz das Almas Landfill in Maceio and the Muribeca Landfill in Recife. The Muribeca site has never recorded a slope failure and is much larger and better-maintained when compared to the Maceio site at which numerous minor slumps and slides have been observed. Conventional limit-equilibrium analysis was used to calculate factors of safety for stability of the landfill side slopes. Results indicate that the Muribeca site is more stable with computed factors of safety values in the range 1.6-2.4 compared with computed values ranging from 0.9 to 1.4 for the Maceio site at which slope failures have been known to occur. The results suggest that this approach may be useful as a screening-level tool when considering the feasibility of implementing LFGTE projects.

A modified two-step treatment for actinomycetoma

BACKGROUND

Combination antibiotic regimens are effective in the treatment of actinomycetoma but many treatment schedules require supervised parenteral therapy for prolonged periods. We describe a schedule that includes parenteral medication in an initial, short phase followed by a longer phase of oral medication.

METHODS

Sixteen patients with clinically diagnosed mycetoma, who did not show any evidence of a fungal etiology, were treated presumptively for actinomycetoma. Evidence of actinomycotic infection was found on microscopy of granules / discharge and / or histopathological examination in eight (50%) patients. The treatment consisted of an intensive phase (Step 1) with gentamicin, 80 mg twice daily, intravenously and cotrimoxazole, 320/1600 mg twice daily orally for four weeks. This was followed by a maintenance phase with cotrimoxazole and doxycycline, 100 mg twice daily till all sinuses healed completely. The treatment was continued for 5-6 months.

RESULTS

Treatment response was assessed monthly. At the end of the intensive phase, there was a significant improvement in all 16 patients. Nine patients who continued the maintenance phase of the regimen had complete healing of sinuses with marked reductions in swelling and induration in 2.4 +/- 1.7 months. Maintenance treatment was continued for a mean of 9.1 +/- 4.3 months in these patients. Six patients have remained free of disease activity during a follow-up period of 11.1 +/- 4.2 months after treatment was stopped. Two patients developed leucopenia and thrombocytopenia necessitating withdrawal of cotrimoxazole.

CONCLUSION

This regimen was effective in treating actinomycetoma. The short duration of the phase requiring parenteral therapy makes it convenient to administer.

Pharmacological evaluation of C-3 modified Betulinic acid derivatives with potent anticancer activity

In vitro and in vivo pharmacological screening of Betulinic acid (BA) and five dihydro-BA derivatives modified at C-3 position [4-nitrobenzyl-oximino (1), 2-4-difluoro-benzoyloxy (2), 2-4-difluoro-benzylidene-amino (3), benzoyl-hydrazono (4), and 4-fluorophenyl-hydrazono (5)], having potent in vitro anti-cancer activity was carried out using ADME, animal PK and tumor studies. We found that BA and the derivatives had poor aqueous solubility (<0.1 microg/ml), low to moderate permeability (log Pe<-5.0) and high plasma protein binding (>70%). Although BA and 5 were metabolized by human liver microsomes, derivatives 1, 2, 3 and 4 possessed good in vitro metabolic stability. Except 3 which inhibited CYP1A2 isoform by more than 50% none of the other compounds inhibited key cytochrome P450 enzyme isoforms (CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4) at 10 microM. Based on in vitro results one derivative 1 was tested in rodent PK and tumor studies. We found that 1 exhibited favorable pharmacokinetic characteristics of a systemically administered drug and showed better in vivo anti-tumor efficacy as compared to BA in a human colon cancer xenograft model. Our results show that BA derivatives are potential anti-cancer compounds which need to be explored in detail.

Gene expression changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from multiple sclerosis patients undergoing β-interferon therapy

OBJECTIVE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disabling idiopathic inflammatory disorder with evidence of immune dysfunction. Current therapies for MS include preparations of beta-interferon (beta IFN). We studied the gene expression patterns in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from relapsing-remitting MS patients undergoing weekly beta IFN-1a therapy (Avonex; 30 mg intramuscular) to identify biomarkers for beta IFN responsiveness.

METHODS

Oligonucleotide microarrays were used for the comparative analysis of gene expression patterns from longitudinal PBMC samples taken from five patients undergoing beta IFN therapy.

RESULTS

On the basis of two-fold changes in expression levels and statistical analyses we selected a candidate diagnostic set of 136 genes that were differentially expressed between pretreatment and IFN-beta-1a-treated MS patients. When we applied this gene set to cluster the specimens according to their expression profiles, the pretreatment samples clustered in one branch, and acute and chronic samples following treatment clustered in another branch. However, the chronic samples from the single clinical non-responder clustered with the pretreatment branch, suggesting that a possible reversal of beta IFN-induced gene expression may be contributing to the poor clinical response.

CONCLUSIONS

These 136 genes represent potential targets for new MS therapeutics and the basis for lack of beta IFN response.

Twenty nail dystrophy in vitiligo

Twenty nail dystrophy (TND) is a manifestation of several dermatoses and its association with vitiligo is rare. It may be consequent upon a common autoimmune insult to the melanocytes and the nail matrix. We report a patient of acrofacial vitiligo who developed TND. Nail matrix biopsy revealed focal lichenoid reaction and chronic inflammatory infiltrate in the dermal papillae and around blood vessels. Hematological, biochemical and serological investigations showed no evidence of other autoimmune diseases.

Synthesis and Evaluation of 4/5-Hydroxy-2,3-diaryl(substituted)-cyclopent-2-en-1-ones as cis-Restricted Analogues of Combretastatin A-4 as Novel Anticancer Agents

A new series of 2,3-diaryl-4/5-hydroxy-cyclopent-2-en-1-one analogues replacing the cis double bond of combretastatin A-4 (CA-4) by 4/5-hydroxy cyclopentenone moieties was designed and synthesized. The analogues displayed potent cytotoxic activity (IC50<1 microg/mL) against a panel of human cancer cell lines and endothelial cells. The most potent analogues 11 and 42 belonging to the 5-hydroxy cyclopentenone class were further evaluated for their mechanism of action. Both of the analogues led to cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and induced apoptosis in endothelial cells. Antitubulin property of 42 was superior to 11 and comparable to CA-4. The compound 42 had better aqueous solubility, metabolic stability, and pharmacokinetic profile than CA-4 and also demonstrated significant tumor regression in the human colon xenograft model. Our data suggests that cis-restricted analogues of CA-4 are a new class of molecules that have the potential to be developed as novel agents for the treatment of cancer.

Optical properties of zigzag twinned geometry of Zn2SnO4 nanowires

High-density single-crystalline Zn2SnO4 nanowires have been successfully synthesized by using a simple thermal evaporation method by heating a mixture of ZnO and SnO2 nano powders. The products in general contain various geometries of wires, with an average diameter of 80-100 nm. These nanowires are ultra-long, up to 100 microns. The transmission electron microscopy study showed that these nanowires exhibited zigzag twinned geometry, and grow along the (111) direction. Low-temperature photoluminescence properties of the nanowires were measured, showing a strong green emission band at about 515 nm and a weak peak corresponding to UV emission at about 378 nm, which have not been reported before.