COPD exacerbation rates are higher in non-smoker patients in India

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is common among non-smokers exposed to solid fuel combustion at home. Different clinical characteristics in these patients may have significant therapeutic and prognostic implications.METHODS: We used medical record review and a questionnaire among COPD patients at 15 centres across India to capture data on demographic details, different types of exposures and clinical characteristics. Chest radiography and pulmonary function testing were performed in all 1984 cases; C-reactive protein and exhaled breath nitric oxide were measured wherever available.RESULTS: There were 1388 current or ex-smokers and 596 (30.0%) non-smokers who included 259 (43.5%) male and 337 (56.5%) female patients. Sputum production was significantly more common in smokers with COPD (P < 0.05). The frequency of acute symptomatic worsening, emergency visits and hospitalisation were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in non-smokers with COPD; however, intensive care unit admissions were similar in the two groups. There was no significant difference with respect to the use of bronchodilators, inhalational steroids or home nebulisation among smoker and non-smoker patients. The mean predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 sec in smokers (43.1%) was significantly lower than in non-smokers (46.5%).CONCLUSION: Non-smoker COPD, more commonly observed in women exposed to biomass fuels, was characterised by higher rate of exacerbations and higher healthcare resource utilisation.

Podophyllotoxin and Rutin Modulate M1 (iNOS+) Macrophages and Mitigate Lethal Radiation (LR) Induced Inflammatory Responses in Mice

Accidental exposure to lethal doses of Gamma radiation leads to the systemic inflammatory syndrome which causes mortality. In view of this, management of hemopoietic syndrome by modulating pro-inflammatory response in clinically manageable time period seems to be the most appropriate strategy for encountering radiation induced damage and recovery. As both tissue and peripheral macrophages are critical for the management of radiation induced injuries, we have unraveled the immunomodulatory potential of radioprotective formulation (G-003M) on peripheral macrophages populations in this study. G-003M inhibited lethal radiation induced NO and Th1 effector cytokines in the exposed macrophages indicating its M1 dim polarizing capacity. In similar lines, conditioning of mice with G-003M before lethal irradiation (LR) inhibited LR induced titre of Th1 effector cytokines in both serums as well as in lung, small intestine, and spleen tissue confirming its immunomodulatory potential. G-003M potentially down modulated inflammatory response in LPS induced inflammatory model and enhanced M2 polarization of iNOS+ M1 effector macrophages providing a molecular hint on G-003M mechanism of action on macrophages. These observations revealed that G-003M potentially modulate pro-inflammatory programming of macrophages and mitigate radiation-induced inflammatory stress which is believed to contribute significantly to radioprotective attribute of G-003M. In this study, we demonstrate that Rutin and Podophyllotoxin drive M1^dim/M2 polarization of LR primed macrophages apart from protecting DNA from radiation. These drugs have the capacity to programme innate immune cells like macrophages which may be involved in homeostasis during recovery.

Viruses causing severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) in children ≤5 years of age at a tertiary care hospital in Rajasthan, India

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) is one of the leading causes of death among children worldwide. As different respiratory viruses exhibit similar symptoms, simultaneous detection of these viruses in a single reaction mixture can save time and cost. The present study was done in a tertiary care children's hospital for rapid identification of viruses causing SARI among children less than or equal to five years of age using multiplex real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) kit.

METHODS

A total of 155 throat swabs were collected from equal number of children suspected to have SARI and processed for extraction of nucleic acids using automated extraction system. Multiplex real-time RT-PCR was done to identify the viruses in the samples.

RESULTS

The overall positivity for viruses in the study was found to be 72.9 per cent with a co-infection rate of 19.5 per cent. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) was the predominant virus detected in 25.7 per cent children followed by influenza A (H1N1)pdm09, human rhinovirus (HRV) and human adenovirus (HAdV) in 19.9, 11.0 and 8.8 per cent children, respectively. The HMPV was at its peak in February 2013, HAdV showed two peaks in March-April, 2012 and November 2012-March 2013 while HRV was detected throughout the year.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS

Multiplex real-time PCR helped in rapid identification of viruses. Seventeen viruses were detected in SARI cases with overall positivity of 72.9 per cent. HMPV was the most predominant virus. However, for better clinico-virological correlation, studies are required with complete work up of all the aetiological agents, clinical profile of patients and treatment outcome.

Targeting DNA Repair through Podophyllotoxin and Rutin Formulation in Hematopoietic Radioprotection: An in Silico, in Vitro, and in Vivo Study

Drug discovery field has tremendously progressed during last few decades, however, an effective radiation countermeasure agent for the safe administration to the victims of radiation exposure is still unavailable. This multi-model study is aimed at elucidating the mechanistic aspects of a novel podophyllotoxin and rutin combination (henceforth referred as G-003M) in the hematopoietic radioprotection and its involvement in the DNA damage and repair signaling pathways. Using in silico study, we identified the binding sites and structural components of G-003M and validated in vitro. We further studied various in vivo endpoints related to the DNA repair and cell death pathways in mice pre-administered with G-003M, irradiated and subsequently euthanized to collect blood and bone marrow cells. In silico study showed the binding of podophyllotoxin to β-tubulin and presence of a functional hydroxyl group in the rutin, suggested their involvement in G2/M arrest and the free radical scavenging respectively. This experimentation was further validated through in vitro studies. In vivo mice studies confirmed that G-003M pre-administration attenuated DNA damage and enhanced repair after whole body exposure. We further noticed a decrease in the levels of γH2AX, p53BP1, and ATM kinase and an increase in the levels of DNA pk, Ku 80, Ligase IV, Mre 11, Rad 50 and NBS 1 in the blood and bone marrow cells of the G-003M pre-administered and irradiated mice. We noticed an overall increase in the pro-survival factors in the G-003M pre-treated and irradiated groups establishing the radioprotective efficacy of this formulation. The lead obtained from this study will certainly help in developing this formulation as a safe and effective radioprotector which could be used for humans against any planned or emergency exposure of radiation.

Scrub typhus causing neonatal hepatitis with acute liver failure-A case series

Neonatal hepatitis with acute liver failure due to varied etiology including various infections is reported in the past. Scrub typhus as a cause of neonatal hepatitis has rarely been reported in literature. A high index of clinical suspicion is required for early diagnosis and timely treatment. Severity and prognosis of the disease varies widely because several different strains of Orientia tsutsugamushi exist with different virulence. Delayed diagnosis can result in complication and significant morbidity and mortality. Here, we report three cases of neonatal hepatitis with acute liver failure caused by scrub typhus to increase awareness.

Distribution and Trends of Human Parainfluenza Viruses in Hospitalised Children

OBJECTIVE

To study the distribution of Human Parainfluenza viruses (HPIV) 1-4 and their trends in children ≤5 y of age, hospitalised at a tertiary care centre, Jaipur and co-infection with other respiratory viruses.

METHODS

Nasopharyngeal aspirate and throat swabs were collected and processed for extraction of nucleic acid using automated extraction system and real time RT-PCR was performed using primers and probes specific to HPIV 1-4 and other respiratory viruses on 743 samples.

RESULTS

Total positivity for Parainfluenza viruses 1-4 was found to be 69/743 (9.28 %), of which 50/533 (9.38 %) were boys and 19/210 (9.05 %) girls. Predominance of HPIV- 3 was observed [41/743 (5.52%)] followed by HPIV-1 in 13/743 (1.75%), HPIV-4 in 10/743 (1.34%) and HPIV-2 in 5/743 (0.67%) patients. Maximum positivity was observed in age group 25-36 mo (12.98%) followed by 13-24 mo group (11.96%). HPIVs were found to be circulating round the year and each year. Co-infections with other respiratory viruses were observed in 22/69 (31.88%) of HPIV positive patients.

CONCLUSIONS

All the four types of HPIV were found to be circulating in the index population during all the three years, predominantly during post monsoon and winter seasons. HPIV vaccination should be targeted for all types.

γH2AX formation kinetics in PBMCs of rabbits exposed to acute and fractionated radiation and attenuation of focus frequency through preadministration of a combination of podophyllotoxin and rutin hydrate

DNA damage can be assessed by the quantitation of γH2AX foci that form at DSB sites. This study examines the generation and persistence of γH2AX foci, variability in foci size after acute and fractionated radiation exposure, and the effect of pretreatment with a safe radioprotective formulation termed G-003M on foci generation and persistence. G-003M contains a combination of podophyllotoxin and rutin hydrate, and was administered intramuscularly to rabbits 1 hr prior to Co(60) gamma irradiation. Rabbits were assigned to one of the following treatment groups: untreated, G-003M alone, irradiated (single dose 8 Gy, fractionated 2 Gy/day for 4 days or single dose 2 Gy) or G-003M preadministration followed by radiation exposure. Foci continuously persisted for a week in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of rabbits exposed to a single 8 Gy dose. However, the number of foci gradually decreased after reaching a maximum at 1 h. In rabbits exposed to fractionated radiation, foci detected 1 hr after the final exposure were significantly larger (P < 0.001) than in rabbits exposed to a single 8 Gy dose, but disappeared completely after 24 h. In both groups, foci reappeared on days 11-15 in terminally ill animals. G-003M pretreatment significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated the formation of γH2AX foci in all irradiated rabbits. This study reveals that γH2AX focus assessment could be used to confirm radiation exposure, that focus size reflects the type of radiation exposure (acute or fractionated), that the re-appearance of foci is a strong indicator of imminent death in animals, and that G-003M provides protection against radiation. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:455-468, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Modification of radiation-induced DNA double strand break repair pathways by chemicals extracted from Podophyllum hexandrum: an in vitro study in human blood leukocytes

Radiation exposure is a serious threat to biomolecules, particularly DNA, proteins and lipids. Various exogenous substances have been reported to protect these biomolecules. In this study we explored the effect of pre-treatment with G-002M, a mixture of three active derivatives isolated from the rhizomes of Podophyllum hexandrum, on DNA damage response in irradiated human blood leukocytes. Blood was collected from healthy male volunteers, preincubated with G-002M and then irradiated with various doses of radiation. Samples were analyzed using flow cytometry to quantify DNA double strand break (DSB) biomarkers including γ-H2AX, P53BP1 and levels of ligase IV. Blood samples were irradiated in vitro and processed to determine time and dose-dependent kinetics. Semiquantitative RT-PCR was performed at various time points to measure gene expression of DNA-PKcs, Ku80, ATM, and 53BP1; each of these genes is involved in DNA repair signaling. Pre-treatment of blood with G-002M resulted in reduction of γ-H2AX and P53BP1 biomarkers levels and elevated ligase IV levels relative to non-G-002M-treated irradiated cells. These results confirm suppression in radiation-induced DNA DSBs. Samples pre-treated with G-002M and then irradiated also showed significant up-regulation of DNA-PKcs and Ku80 and downregulation of ATM and 53BP1 gene expressions, suggesting that G-002M plays a protective role against DNA damage. The protective effect of G-002M may be due to its ability to scavange radiation-induced free radicals or assist in DNA repair. Further studies are needed to decipher the role of G-002M on signaling molecules involved in radiation-induced DNA damage repair pathways.

Blood biomarkers in metal scrap workers accidentally exposed to ionizing radiation

The detrimental effect of nuclear accidents due to localized or whole body radiation exposure results in severe cellular damage. The current study was carried out to evaluate radiation-mediated variability in blood components of metal scrap workers exposed accidently to cobalt-60 source. Blood samples collected initially from five hospitalized patients, coded P1–P5, were processed for total leukocyte counts (TLC), platelet (PLT) counts, haemoglobin, estimation of DNA double strand breaks by measuring phosphorylated form of H2AX (γ-H2AX) and chromosomal aberrations (dicentrics). Blood cells count (TLC), in all the patients except P2, was found decreased. Dicentrics increased in all the five patients. γ-H2AX was found significantly elevated in patients P2 and P4. After 3 days, 21 subjects working in close vicinity of accident site were evaluated for the above-mentioned markers to confirm their possibility of radiation exposure; however, all the parameters in these subjects were found within normal limits. Blood from patients P1–P5 was collected again after 11 days. Studies revealed exorbitant increase in γ-H2AX in lymphocytes and monocytes of patients P1, P4 and P5. TLC and PLT count in these patients had fallen further. Dicentrics declined with time in all the five patients. Based on the studied blood biomarkers, we conclude that the five subjects showed signs of radiation exposure. Measurement on radiation dose could not be performed in the current study; however, the generated data particularly on dicentrics provide ample evidence of radiation exposure.

Bioavailability, antioxidant and non toxic properties of a radioprotective formulation prepared from isolated compounds of Podophyllum hexandrum: a study in mouse model

The current study was aimed to determine the stability, serum protein binding ability, biodistribution, antioxidant potential and tissue toxicity status of a novel radioprotective formulation (G-002M) from Podophyllum hexandrum. G-002M is the combination of a flavonoid, a lignan and its glucoside isolated from P. hexandrum rhizome that exhibit high radioprotective potential. Stability of G-002M tagged with 99mTc was observed in vitro and with mice serum till 24 hr of incubation. The formulation was investigated for its antioxidant status and its bioavailability and toxicity in different organs of mice. Biodistribution study of 99mTc-G-002M revealed its uptake by all the vital organs of mice. Higher absorbed dose was observed in lungs, liver, jejunum and kidney. Maximum retention of G-002M in kidney revealed that G-002M was excreted predominantly through renal route. G-002M was also observed to have high free radical scavenging and total reducing properties. Histopathological observations showed no significant alterations in tissue morphology of lungs, liver, jejunum and kidney by G-002M administration. The data conclusively demonstrate that high stability, multi organ availability, longer retention and non-toxic behavior of G-002M might help in exhibiting strong protective potential against lethal radiation.

Inhibition in radiation mediated cellular toxicity by minimizing free radical flux: one of the possible mechanisms of biological protection against lethal ionizing radiation by a sub- fraction of Podophyllum hexandrum

The study has focused on exploring the mechanism of action of Podophyllum hexandrum sub-fraction (G-001M) exhibiting >90% protection in lethally irradiated mice. Currently, G-001M was assessed for antioxidant characteristics by evaluating DPPH, superoxide and hydrogen peroxide radical formation, anti-lipid per oxidation, metal chelation and total flavonoid content. To affirm cytoprotective efficacy of G-001M, plasmid DNA protection, blood WBC counts, marker for lipid peroxidation (MDA) and antioxidant status (GSH) in mice splenocytes and thymocytes were studied. G-001M, having high amount of total phenolic contents (200±10mg, w/w), exhibited dose dependent inhibition in DPPH and superoxide radical formation. Hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging was higher than standards. With pre-treatment of G-001M, plasmid DNA was also maximally restored to supercoiled form. Radiation modulated MDA and GSH values in splenocytes and thymocytes of mice altered significantly after 24 hrs and at later intervals, values were close to the controls. Radiation mediated losses in WBC counts were significantly regained (p<0.001) in G-001M pre-treated irradiated mice. The above findings explicitly conveyed that G-001M has successfully minimized radiation inflicted free radicals generation and their multiplication. This activity of G-001M could be undoubtedly among one of the major modes of action in extending whole body survival in lethally irradiated mice.

Hemodynamic Effects of Arteriovenous Fistula in End‐Stage Renal Failure

Hemodynamic parameters using Swan Ganz catheter were studied in 17 patients with end stage renal disease. The acute effects of radiocephalic AV fistula on the hemodynamic parameters were studied at 24 hours of surgery. The chronic effects were studied in 8 of these patients at 6 weeks of arteriovenous (AV) fistula. The AV fistula matured in 3 to 4 weeks time and blood flow was sufficient for hemodialysis (400 mL/min). Patients with chronic renal failure had normal or high normal hemodynamic parameters. Six weeks after the AV fistula, the cardiac index and the stroke volume index slightly increased along with a significant increase in systolic and mean systemic arterial pressure. None of the patients had significant increase in cardiac filling pressures. Although there was some fall in systemic vascular resistance index and rise in cardiac index and stroke volume index, these changes were physically small and unlikely to put any extra hemodynamic load. Thus, AV fistula in dialysis patients is not an appreciable cause of circulatory or pulmonary congestion.

Radioprotective and antioxidant activity of fractionated extracts of berries of Hippophae rhamnoides

Plants are an abundant source of medicinal compounds, some of which are useful in combating free radical-mediated oxidative stress. In the present study, initially two fractions designated REC-1001 (flavonoid-rich fraction) and REC-1002 (flavonoid-poor fraction) of Hippophae rhamnoides were screened on the basis of their reducing power in the aqueous phase. REC-1001 was selected for further study, since it exhibited 27.38 times higher antioxidant activity than REC-1002. REC-1001 also showed significant (P < .05) membrane protection potential at 50 microg/mL, which was attributed to its ability to scavenge peroxyl radicals (64.82 +/- 1.25% scavenging within 1,440 min). A significant (P < .05) difference of 67.02% in free radical scavenging activity at 1,000 ng/mL between REC-1001 and vitamin E demonstrated the extract fraction's worth in radiation protection. Such activities were attributed to the presence of quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol in this fraction. Further, REC-1001 was found to be nontoxic up to 200 mg/kg of body weight. This research suggests that the REC-1001 fraction of H. rhamnoides extract is a safe and effective antioxidant nutraceutical product.

Protective efficacy of semi purified fraction of high altitude podophyllum hexandrum rhizomes in lethally irradiated Swiss albino mice

A fraction of high altitude Podophyllum hexandrum rhizome, REC-2006, was evaluated for its radioprotective efficacy against lethal gamma-irradiation (10 Gy, whole body) in Swiss albino mice. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and LD50 of this fraction were found to be 45 mg/kg b.w. and 74 mg/kg b.w. respectively. Pre-irradiation (- 2 h, ) administration (i.p.) of 6 or 8 mg/kg b.w. of REC-2006 rendered > 90% survival in lethally irradiated mice. The dose reduction factor was calculated to be 1.62 considering survival as the end point. REC-2006 treatment marked in significant increase in endogenous spleen colony forming units. In REC-2006 treated group, super oxide dismutase activity was increased significantly compared to the radiation control group (Liver, p = 0.00, Jejunum p = 0.00). The extract also inhibited radiation induced lipid peroxidation in liver (p = 0.00) at 24 h. REC-2006 administration (100-200 microg/ml) significantly reduced the halo diameter in mice thymocytes. Nearly 10 fold difference between the effective dose (6 mg/kg b.w.) and LD50 and the high degree of whole body survival (> 90% against 10 Gy irradiation) indicates REC-2006 to be safe and highly promising to achieve significant radioprotection against lethal radiation. Further purification and identification of active molecules and their efficacy studies in higher animals therefore demand attention.

A case of human thelaziasis from Himachal Pradesh

Small, chalky-white, threadlike, motile worms were isolated from the conjunctival sac of a 32 year-old woman residing in the Himalaya mountains. They were identified as both male and female worms of Thelazia callipaeda. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second case report of human thelaziasis from India.

An Insight into the Grain Auger Injury Problem in Queensland, Australia

Grain auger-related injuries were studied by examining the injury data obtained from the Queensland worker's compensation database. Close to 60% of 52 claimants were male employees in the 20 to 34 age group. Fingers, hands, and arms were affected in 65% of all cases, and the auger flighting was involved in 60% of claims. The severity of auger-related injuries is reflected in the high average cost of claims and number of working days lost, which were more than double the all-industries values. Injuries involving the auger flighting are three times more costly (in time and money) than the all-industries values. More claims were made during winter and towards the end of summer, with the majority of injuries occurring in the animal industries. Most incidents occurred in the early or middle periods of a working shift. In addition, two focus group meetings were held to gain a broader perspective of the grain auger injury picture in Queensland, Australia. Focus group participants suggested that the operator's state of mind and attitude to safety are important, while the auger's age, type, and shielding were cited as important risk factors. They suggested that older augers are less likely to be adequately shielded, and mobile augers are most likely to be involved in injury events. The information gained from this study is being used to develop strategies to help farmers minimize injuries associated with the use of grain augers.

Amoebic renal cyst: a case report

Entamoeba histolytica can infect any organ of the body, but only one case of renal involvement has been reported till now in the literature. We report a rare case of amoebic renal cyst in a 78-year showing favorable outcome with metronidazole treatment and therapeutic drainage.

Investigation of an outbreak of scrub typhus in the himalayan region of India

In Indira Gandhi Medical College, Himachal Pradesh, India, during autumn of 2003 (September-November), more than 100 cases of fever of unknown origin (FUO) were reported with 15 ensuing deaths. In addition to all routine investigations and cultures, the Weil-Felix test was incorporated for the investigation of these cases. Antigen was procured from the Central Research Institute, Kasauli. Forty-six percent (45/96) of the cases demonstrated a > or =1:80 titer of agglutinins against OXK antigen. A team from the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, New Delhi, confirmed the antibodies for scrub typhus in some of the serum samples tested for leptospirosis, dengue fever, and rickettsial infections. Twelve blood samples positive for OXK antigen were sent to the Defense Research Development Establishment, Gwalior, for polymerase chain reaction studies, but none of the samples were positive, as all of the patients were already on broad-spectrum antibiotics and had reported to our hospital after 7-10 days of fever. At our institute, the Weil-Felix test has now been rountinely introduced for the investigation of cases of FUO, and the results until April 2004 (150 cases) revealed the presence of other rickettsial infections prevalent in the region. To evaluate the epidemiology and magnitude of the problem, further prospective studies are required.

Cutaneous sporotrichosis in Himachal Pradesh, India

During the period 1990-2002 in Himachal Pradesh, India, 103 new patients with cutaneous sporotrichosis were detected. Lymphocutaneous and fixed cutaneous varieties were the most common and seen in 49% and 43% respectively. Chronic non-specific inflammation without granuloma formation was seen in 46% skin biopsy specimens, 29% showed acute or chronic inflammation and tuberculoid granuloma formation was seen in 25%. In 32% of cases Sporothrix schenckii growth was seen on Sabouraud glucose agar. A saturated solution of potassium iodide was used as first-line treatment and in 93% patients healing of lesions occurred in 4-32 weeks (average 8.7 weeks) without significant side-effects. Itraconazole, used in 12 patients, was highly effective in recommended doses. Rapid healing was seen with higher than previously used doses of fluconazole in one patient who also had unusual exacerbation of lesional inflammation with saturated solution of potassium iodide.

Intergeneric hybridization between Erucastrum cardaminoides and two diploid crop Brassica species

Two intergeneric hybrids involving wild species Erucastrum cardaminoides (2 n=18, E(cd) E(cd)) and two crop brassica species, Brassica rapa (2 n=20, AA) and B. nigra (2 n=16, BB), were synthesized through in vitro sequential ovary culture. Morphological, molecular and cytological studies were conducted to establish their hybridity. Both hybrids, though morphologically distinct, were intermediate phenotypically between their respective parents. Cytological analysis of the E. cardaminoides x B. rapa hybrid (2 n=19), revealed the occurrence of 17 I+1 II at diakinesis/metaphase in the majority (28%) of the pollen mother cells (PMCs), whereas in E. cardaminoides x B. nigra hybrid (2 n=17), 13 I+2 II was the predominant (32%) meiotic configuration. A maximum of 5 II was recorded in both hybrids, indicating homoeologous pairing in the respective combined genomes. Chromosome doubling by colchicine application gave rise to two new amphiploids (AA E(cd)E(cd) and BB E(cd)E(cd)) having normal chromosome pairing and pollen fertility. The occasional occurrence of one quadrivalent in the amphiploids confirmed partial homoeology between the E(c) and A/B genomes. The E. cardaminoides x B. nigra hybrid and amphiploid appeared to be tolerant to alternaria blight under field conditions.

Pulmonary leiomyosarcoma

A case of pulmonary leiomyosarcoma presenting as a mass lesion on skiagram chest with low attenuation value on computerized scan is presented.

Effect of the vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungus Glomus fasciculatum on the essential oil yield related characters and nutrient acquisition in the crops of different cultivars of menthol mint (Mentha arvensis) under field conditions

The effects of inoculation with vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungus Glomusfasciculatum on the root colonization, growth, essential oil yield and nutrient acquisition of three cultivars of menthol mint (Mentha arvensis); Kalka, Shivalik and Gomti, were studied under field conditions. The VAM inoculation significantly increased the root colonization, plant height, fresh herbage and dry matter yield. oil content and oil yield as compared to non-inoculated cultivars. The effect of VAM inoculation on the root colonization, growth and yield of mint was more pronounced with the cv Shivalik than the cvs Kalka and Gomati, indicating Shivalik as a highly mycorrhizal dependent genotype. VAM inoculation significantly increased the uptake of N, P and K by shoot tissues of mint, but most markedly increased the uptake of P. The VAM-inoculated mint plants depleted the available N, P and K in the rhizosphere soil as compared to non-inoculated control plants, however the extent of nutrient depletion was greater for P than N and K. We conclude that the VAM inoculation could significantly increase the root colonization, growth, essential oil yield and nutrient acquisition of mint for obtaining economic production under field conditions.

Mutagenesis of beta-tubulin cysteine residues in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: mutation of cysteine 354 results in cold-stable microtubules

Cysteine residues play important roles in the control of tubulin function. To determine which of the six cysteine residues in beta-tubulin are critical to tubulin function, we mutated the cysteines in Saccharomyces cerevisiae beta-tubulin individually to alanine and serine residues. Of the twelve mutations, only three produced significant effects: C12S, C354A, and C354S. The C12S mutation was lethal in the haploid, but the C12A mutation had no observable phenotype. Based on interactive views of the electron crystallographic structure of tubulin, we suggest that substitution of serine for cysteine at this position has a destabilizing effect on the interaction of tubulin with the exchangeable GTP. The two C354 mutations, although not lethal, produced dramatic effects on microtubules and cellular processes that require microtubules. The C354 mutant cells had decreased growth rates, a slowed mitosis, increased resistance to benomyl, and impaired nuclear migration and spindle assembly. The C354A mutation produced a more severe phenotype than the C354S mutation: the haploid cells had chromosome segregation defects, only 50% of cells in a culture were viable, and a significant percentage of the cells were misshapened. Cytoplasmic microtubules in the C354S and C354A cells were longer than in the control strain and spindle structures appeared shorter and thicker. Both cytoplasmic and spindle microtubules in the two C354 mutants were extremely stable to cold temperature. After 24 h at 4 degrees C, the microtubules were still present and, in fact, very long and thick tubulin polymers had formed. Evidence exists to indicate that the C354 residue in mammalian tubulin is near the colchicine binding site and the electron crystal structure of tubulin places the residue at the interface between the alpha- and beta-subunits. The sulfhydryl group is situated in a polar environment, which may explain why the alanine mutation is more severe than the serine mutation. When the C12S and the two C354 mutations were made in a diploid strain, the mutated tubulin was incorporated into microtubules and the resulting heterozygotes had phenotypes that were intermediate between those of the mutated haploids and the wild-type strains. The results suggest that the C12 and C354 residues play important roles in the structure and function of tubulin.

Primary tuberculosis of soft palate

Primary tuberculosis of upper respiratory tract including oral cavity is a rare disease. One such unusual case is reported.

Chromoblastomycosis in India

BACKGROUND

Four patients with chromoblastomycosis are presented. An additional 30 infected Indian patients are reviewed.

RESULTS

These 34 patients ranged in age from 12 to 80 years with a male to female ratio of 5.8 : 1. Onset before the age of 20 years was seen in 24% of cases which was comparatively high. Culture was positive in 72% of cases and sclerotic bodies were observed in 84% of cases. A relatively higher prevalence (15%) of Fonsecaea compacta was observed. Unusual cutaneous sites afflicted were the penile shaft, vulva, and ala of the nose, and unusual extracutaneous spread was seen in the pleural cavity, ileocecal region, laryngotracheal area, and tonsils. Extracutaneous involvement was seen in 24% of cases. Overlapping infection with another fungus, Geotrichum candidum, was seen in one case.

CONCLUSIONS

Combination therapy with two azoles was attempted with some success for clinical cure.

Stabilization of tubulin by deuterium oxide

Tubulin is an unstable protein when stored in solution and loses its ability to form microtubules rapidly. We have found that D2O stabilizes the protein against inactivation at both 4 and 37 degrees C. In H2O-based buffer, tubulin was completely inactivated after 40 h at 4 degrees C, but in buffer prepared in D2O, no activity was lost after 54 h. Tubulin was completely inactivated at 37 degrees C in 8 h in H2O buffer, but only 20% of the activity was lost in D2O buffer. Tubulin also lost its colchicine binding activity at a slower rate in D2O. The deuterated solvent retarded an aggregation process that occurs during incubation at both temperatures. Inactivation in H2O buffer was partially reversed by transferring the protein to D2O buffer; however, aggregation was not reversed. The level of binding of BisANS, a probe of exposed hydrophobic sites in proteins, increases during the inactivation of tubulin. In D2O, the rate of this increase is slowed somewhat. We propose that D2O has its stabilizing effect on a conformational step or steps that involve the disruption of hydrophobic forces. The conformational change is followed by an aggregation process that cannot be reversed by D2O. As reported previously [Ito, T., and Sato, H. (1984) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 800, 21-27], we found that D2O stimulates the formation of microtubules from tubulin. We also observed that the products of assembly in D2O/8% DMSO consisted of a high percentage of ribbon structures and incompletely folded microtubules. When these polymers were disassembled and reassembled in H2O/8% DMSO, the products were microtubules. We suggest that the combination of D2O and DMSO, both stimulators of tubulin assembly, leads to the rapid production of nuclei that lead to the formation of ribbon structures rather than microtubules.

Non-fermenters in urinary tract infection

Sixty four (4.4%) strains of non-fermenting gram negative bacteria (NFGNB) were isolated out of 1,380 bacterial isolates from 7,784 urine samples, of which 43 were isolated from male patients and 21 from female patients. P. aeruginosa was found to be the commonest (67.2%) followed by A. lwoffi (7.8%), A. anitratus and P. acidovorans testosterani (6.2% each), P. maltophilia and P. denitrificans (4.8% each), P. putida and P. vesiculare (1.5% each). Forty two(65.6%) of these isolates were isolated as pure cultures and 22(34.4%) as predominant organisms. Most of these isolates i.e. 50-88.8% were sensitive to Norfloxacin and Ofloxacin and 22.2% to 66.6% of these isolates were sensitive to Gentamycin and Cephalexin whereas 11.1% of these isolates were sensitive to Co-trimoxazole and Ampicillin. All of these isolates were resistant to Penicillin and Tetracycline.

Radioprotective efficiency of a combination of hydroxytryptophan and AET on mouse bone marrow micronuclei

Radioprotective effectiveness of a combination of HT and AET was evaluated by radiation induced micronucleus screening in mouse bone marrow. Swiss albino mice were injected with 2-Aminoethylisothiouronium bromide hydrobromide (AET)+5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (HT) 30 minutes prior to a single whole body exposure of 8 and 12 Gy Co60 gamma rays. Animals were sacrificed at different intervals viz., 24 hours, 40 hours, 72 hours and 7 days after irradiation. Slides of femur marrow were screened thoroughly for cells with micronuclei. Marked decreases in the frequency of micronuclei in irradiated mice receiving radioprotector suggested that the combination has rendered protection to bone marrow cells against 8 Gy and 12 Gy whole body gamma irradiation. Micronucleated cells count is not altered by administration of the combination alone.

A new medium for rapid slide culture of tubercle bacilli

Human blood medium (HBM) and egg enriched sheep blood medium (SBM) were evaluated to see their efficacy for primary culture of tubercle bacilli. SBM is found to be equally effective compared to HBM. Both types of media were associated with a low rate of contamination (2.75%). Availability of culture results after 7 days compared to 6 weeks on Lowenstein-Jensen media is a distinct advantage of slide culture method with a possible use in primary isolation and in evaluation of drug sensitivity pattern of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Sporotrichosis of abdominal wall

A rare case of sporotrichosis of abdominal wall has been described from high mountainous region of Himachal Pradesh. Its clinical importance has been discussed in the light of available literature.

Lack of smooth muscle in the small pulmonary arteries of the native Ladakhi. Is the Himalayan highlander adapted?

Chronic hypobaric hypoxia induces a mild degree of pulmonary arterial hypertension with structural alterations in the peripheral portions of the pulmonary arterial tree of the native Andean highlanders. On the other hand, animals indigenous to high altitude do not show these changes and are adapted to hypobaric hypoxia. The small pulmonary arteries of seven native Himalayan highlanders were examined at autopsy and found to be thin-walled with no medial hypertrophy of the muscular pulmonary arteries or muscularization of the arterioles. These findings suggest that the Himalayan highlanders may be adapted to hypobaric hypoxia.

Epidemiology of rheumatic and congenital heart diseases in school children

A stratified random sample of 10,263 school-going children in the age group of 6-16 years from government and private schools were screened for the prevalence of rheumatic fever, rheumatic heart diseases and congenital heart diseases. Fourteen children were found to have rheumatic heart disease with valvular lesions either single or in combination eg, pure mitral stenosis (6 cases), mitral regurgitation (4 cases), combined mitral stenosis and mitral regurgitation (3 cases) and aortic and mitral regurgitation (one case). Eight children had congenital heart diseases in the form of ventricular septal defect (3 cases), atrial septal defect (2 cases), patent ductus arteriosus (2 cases) and congenital bicuspid aortic valve (one case) while none had active rheumatic fever.

Influence of prior information of drug toxicity on patient compliance

Sixty patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, who had not received any chemotherapy in the past, were divided into two groups. All the patients were put on isoniazid, rifampicin and pyrazinamide for 8 weeks followed by isoniazid and rifampicin for another 18 weeks. Group A patients were informed of the likely occurrence of anorexia and/or vomiting but Group B patients were not. Routine and default retrieval home visits were given to ensure maximal drug compliance. Drug toxicity related early defaults were significantly less common in Group A patients (1 of 30) as compared to Group B (6 of 30).

Intestinal parasitism in Himachal Pradesh

A total of 1629 cases were included in the study for the presence of intestinal parasites during 12 mobile camps in different areas of Himachal Pradesh. 47.08% were positive for parasites. The prevalence rate of helminthic parasites was 32.41% and that of protozoal parasites was 20.81%. The parasitic prevalence has been discussed in the light of peculiar geographical situation of the area.

Nocardia associated with pulmonary tuberculosis

A total of 209 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis were screened for the presence of Nocardia in their sputa. In 2.9 per cent of the cases Nocardia asteroides was isolated. The increasing importance of this microorganism has been discussed in the light of other reports from India.

Seroprevalence of HIV infection in Himachal Pradesh

Serum samples from 2645 individuals representing all the twelve districts of Himachal Pradesh were screened for antibodies to Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), employing ELISA test. These were categorised into four major high risk groups, viz, patients attending STD clinics (1305), voluntary blood donors (1012), hospital staff dealing with blood and blood products (200) and foreign nationals (128). No evidence of HIV infection was found in Himachali population. Two foreign nationals were repeatedly found positive for HIV antibodies by ELISA test and these were confirmed by Western Blot technique.

Incidence of australia antigen (HBs Ag) in Himachal Pradesh

2405 high risk subjects (1193 patients attending STD clinics, 1012 blood donors and 200 hospital personnel) and 500 apparently healthy individuals representing all the twelve districts of the State of Himachal Pradesh were screened for HBs Ag employing reverse passive haemagglutination (RPHA) technique. HBs Ag positivity was found to be 6.77 per cent in test groups and 3.6 per cent in the control group. Maximum positivity was found in STD patients (9.55 per cent) followed by hospital personnel (8 per cent) and blood donors (3.26 per cent). The highest incidence was noticed in district Kullu and no positive case was found in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. Remedial measures for prevention of Hepatitis-B virus infection have been emphasized.

Evidence for the inhibitory effect of 5-hydroxytryptamine at central and peripheral sites on ovulation in rabbits

1. The effect of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) has been investigated on ovulation per se as well as on induced ovulation in rabbits. 2. 5-HT administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) did not induce ovulation per se. 3. The ovulation was induced by coitus, subcutaneous administration of progesterone and intravenous administration of cupric acetate. 4. Postcoital and progesterone induced ovulation was found to be blocked by i.c.v. administered 5-HT. 5. Cupric acetate induced ovulation was, however, not found to be blocked by i.c.v. administered 5-HT. 6. Intraperitoneal administration of 5-HT was found to block cupric acetate induced ovulation. 7. It is concluded that 5-HT exerts an inhibitory control over ovulation by acting at central as well as at peripheral sites in rabbits.

Cutaneous Chromomycosis with Pulmonary Geotrichosis

An 80 year old farmer had cutaneous chromomycosis on the lateral aspect of right foot. He had associated pulmonary pathology caused by another fungus Geotrichum candidum simulating miliary tuberculosis. Complete regression of the pulmonary lesions and partial regression of the cutaneous lesions was observed with iodide therapy.

Acridine orange stain--a rapid method for diagnosis of neonatal septicemia

The present study included 150 newborns; 100 clinically septic and 50 clinically aseptic who served as control. Out of 100 clinically septic newborns, blood culture was positive in 33 (33%), serum CRP was positive in 64 (64%) and acridine orange stained buffy coat smear was positive in 76 (76%). Serum CRP was found to be the most specific (specificity 96%) and acridine orange stained buffy coat smear examination the most sensitive (sensitivity 94.3%) test for diagnosis of neonatal septicemia.

A study of central neurotransmitter mechanisms in morphine-induced 'Straub reaction' in mice: role of central dopamine receptors

1. The role of putative neurotransmitters was investigated in morphine-induced Straub reaction (SR) in albino mice. 2. Apomorphine (15 mg/kg) was also effective in inducing SR. However, in a smaller dose (0.2 mg/kg) it blocked SR induced by morphine. 3. Morphine-induced SR was potentiated by tranylcypromine, reserpine (acute effect), imipramine and L-dopa and blocked by reserpine (chronic effect), alpha-methyldopa, pimozide, chlorpromazine, haloperidol and metoclopramide. Prazosin and clonidine partially blocked morphine SR in high doses. 4. Propranolol, yohimbine, cyproheptadine and atropine were ineffective in blocking morphine SR. 5. The results indicate that morphine SR is mediated through release of DA in the CNS which excites central D2 receptors. Activation of central alpha 1-adrenoceptors might also play a minor role.