Reviving the Grasp: A Case Report on a Pioneering Approach to Managing Crush Syndrome and Unveiling the Occult Compartment Syndrome

A crush injury results directly from a crushing force, while crush syndrome, or traumatic rhabdomyolysis, manifests as systemic consequences stemming from the breakdown of muscle cells. Hand crush injuries present intricate challenges involving damage to multiple structures, tissue loss, and potential digit amputation, often caused by high-energy trauma. Each case demands a unique management plan, with the critical decision between limb salvage and amputation. Early intervention to restore vascularity is pivotal for preserving hand function. The complexity is heightened by the occult compartment syndrome, characterized by increased pressure causing neurovascular compromise without external signs. A patient with an insensate limb due to ipsilateral pan brachial plexus injury (BPI) adds an additional layer of complexity to the management journey, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach. This case is unique and underscores the importance of prioritizing reconstruction, identifying crush syndrome and the occult compartment syndrome, and employing a strategic, decisive approach that includes various surgical techniques for optimal outcomes in complex hand injuries.

Effects of Malaysian thermal spring water as adjunct therapy for mild to moderate acne vulgaris - a prospective, randomised, controlled, split face study

INTRODUCTION

Acne is a common skin disease with a high psychosocial burden, affecting mostly adolescents and youth worldwide. Management of acne is often challenged by cutaneous side effects that leads to therapeutic intolerance, poor compliance and impaired efficacy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a single-centre, evaluatorblinded, split-face, randomised study investigating the effects of thermal spring water (TSW) in improving efficacy and tolerability of standard acne therapy. Total of 31 participants with mild-to-moderate acne were recruited and subjected to TSW spray to one side of the face 4 times daily for 6 weeks in addition to standard therapy. The other side received standard therapy only.

RESULTS

Six (19.4%) males and 25 (80.6%) female with mean age 25.1±6.13 participated, 15 (48.4%) had mild acne while 16 (51.6%) had moderate acne. Seven (22.6%) were on oral antibiotics, 25 (80.6%) used adapalene, 6 (19.4%) tretinoin and 21 (67.7%) benzoyl peroxide. Skin hydration improved and better on spring water treated side with mean difference12.41±30.31, p = 0.04 at the forehead, 39.52±65.14, p < 0.01 at the cheek and 42.172±71.71, p < 0.01 at the jaw at week 6. Participants also report significant reduction in dryness at the treated side at week 6, mean difference 0.93±0.10, p < 0.001. TEWL, sebum and pH were comparable on both sides with no significant differences. Tolerability towards standard therapy improved as early week 2 with reduction of stinging following application of topical therapy (mean difference 0.62±1.43, p = 0.03), increase in skin feeling good (-1.79±1.70, p < 0.001) and skin suppleness (0.62±1.43, p < 0.001). These improvements were significantly maintained till week 6. Cardiff acne disability index significantly improved at week 6 (p<0.001) despite no significant changes in Comprehensive Acne Severity Scale score before and after treatment.

CONCLUSION

TSW may have a role as an adjunct to standard acne therapy by improving hydration, acne disability index and tolerability towards standard topical treatment.

Plasma β-1,3 Glucan Binding Protein Mediated Opsono-Phagocytosis by Hemocytes In Vitro of Marine Mussel Perna viridis

We have shown in the past decade, for the first time in a bivalve mollusc, detection, isolation, and purification of β-1,3 glucan binding protein (β-GBP) in the plasma of the marine mussel Perna viridis and demonstrated its role in a nonself-induced activation of plasma prophenoloxidase system. In this study, we present evidence for its ability to function as an opsonin during phagocytosis of trypsinized yeast cells by the hemocytes of P. viridis. The in vitro pretreatment of target cells (trypsinized yeast cells) with β-GBP enhanced the phagocytic response of hemocytes. Such β-GBP-mediated enhanced phagocytic response appeared to be dose dependent. This opsono-phagocytic response could be inhibited by the presence of laminarin (a polymer of β-1,3 glucans), glucose, as well as polyclonal antibodies raised against β-GBP. These observations clearly indicate that the plasma β-GBP can possibly recognize and bind to β-1,3 glucans on the surface of targets and facilitate hemocyte recognition processes possibly by forming a bridge between the hemocytes and the target, consequently leading to opsono-phagocytosis. These observations together with our earlier annotations indicate the multifunctional potential of plasma β-GBP in the marine mussel P. viridis.

Acrometastases: The nasty alter ego of fingertip infections

Fingertip infections are commonly diagnosed in primary care. There is a serious condition, acrometastases, that is often mistaken for these infections. Acrometastases are defined as metastases located distal to the elbow or knee. We present a case of a malignant phyllodes tumour with acrometastases to the distal phalanx of the left middle finger that was misdiagnosed as a fingertip infection on 2 separate occasions, highlighting the need for vigilance regarding acrometastases.

Lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis of the abdominal wall: A lesson in lymphatic drainage

Cutaneous sporotrichosis (CS) presents as asymptomatic lesions of varied morphology. The most common variant is the lymphocutaneous type which typically progresses from a papule to an ulcer and then forms nodules along the superficial lymphatic channels. Diagnosis CS may be challenging when the lesion presents at an uncommon site where the superficial lymphatic drainage is unfamiliar. We present here a case of sporotrichosis of the abdominal wall which was initially misdiagnosed as an abscess but later confirmed by culture and managed successfully.

Dietary Acid Load and Its Interaction with IGF1 (rs35767 and rs7136446) and IL6 (rs1800796) Polymorphisms on Metabolic Traits among Postmenopausal Women

The objective of this study was to explore the effects of dietary acid load (DAL) and IGF1 and IL6 gene polymorphisms and their potential diet–gene interactions on metabolic traits. A total of 211 community-dwelling postmenopausal women were recruited. DAL was estimated using potential renal acid load (PRAL). Blood was drawn for biochemical parameters and DNA was extracted and Agena^® MassARRAY was used for genotyping analysis to identify the signalling of IGF1 (rs35767 and rs7136446) and IL6 (rs1800796) polymorphisms. Interactions between diet and genetic polymorphisms were assessed using regression analysis. The result showed that DAL was positively associated with fasting blood glucose (FBG) (β = 0.147, p < 0.05) and there was significant interaction effect between DAL and IL6 with systolic blood pressure (SBP) (β = 0.19, p = 0.041). In conclusion, these findings did not support the interaction effects between DAL and IGF1 and IL6 single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs35767, rs7136446, and rs1800796) on metabolic traits, except for SBP. Besides, higher DAL was associated with higher FBG, allowing us to postulate that high DAL is a potential risk factor for diabetes.

Preparations with catastrophic side effects: A case of neck of femur fracture due to secondary osteoporosis with underlying hip osteonecrosis resulting from chronic jamu consumption

Jamu is commonly used to treat a variety of health conditions in South East Asia due to its efficacy, affordability and ease of access. Despite its effectiveness, little is known regarding its contents and adverse effects. Recent studies have found evidence of steroids within jamu preparations. Chronic jamu consumption may inadvertently manifest with adverse effects associated with long-term steroid intake. We describe a case of neck of femur fracture due to secondary osteoporosis with underlying hip osteonecrosis resulting from chronic jamu consumption hoping to increase awareness regarding the devastating effects of these preparations.

Bone single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography in cancer care in the past decade: a systematic review and meta-analysis as well as recommendations for further work

Skeletal whole-body scintigraphy (WBS), although widely used as a sensitive tool for detecting metastatic bone disease in oncology cases, has relatively low specificity. Indeterminate bone lesions (IBLs) detected by WBS cause a diagnostic dilemma, which hampers further management plans. In the advent of hybrid imaging, single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) has been gaining popularity as a tool to improve the characterisation of IBLs detected by WBS. As yet, there has not been a systematic review to objectively evaluate the diagnostic capabilities of SPECT/CT in this area. We conducted a systematic review of relevant electronic databases up to 30 August 2020. The outcomes of interest were the reporting of SPECT/CT to identify benign and malignant IBLs and the calculation of the sensitivity and specificity of the index test, based on histopathological examination or clinical and imaging follow-up as the reference standard. After the risk of bias and eligibility assessment, 12 articles were identified and synthesised in the meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of SPECT/CT for diagnosing IBLs are 93.0% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.91-0.95] and 96.0% (95% CI 0.94-0.97), respectively. There was heterogeneity of the articles due to variable imaging protocols, duration of follow-up and scoring methods for interpreting the SPECT/CT results. The heterogeneity poses a challenge for accurate interpretation of the true diagnostic capability of SPECT/CT. In conclusion, targeted SPECT/CT improves the specificity of diagnosing bone metastases, but efforts need to be made to standardise the thresholds for SPECT/CT, methodology, as well as harmonising the reporting and interpretation criteria. We also make some recommendations for future works.

Luxação congênita do joelho no nascimento - Um caso extraordinário de redução espontânea

A luxação congênita do joelho (LCJ) é uma malformação rara caracterizada por deformidade de hiperextensão do joelho com deslocamento anterior da tíbia, presente ao nascimento. Raramente relatada, a LCJ pode ocorrer como uma deformidade isolada ou comumente associada a anormalidades musculoesqueléticas, sendo as mais comuns a displasia do desenvolvimento do quadril (DDQ) e o pé torto congênito (PTC). A etiologia é desconhecida, mas a LCJ foi associada a certos fatores intrínsecos e extrínsecos. O tratamento com métodos conservadores em um estágio inicial tem maior probabilidade de produzir resultados bem-sucedidos. Relatamos aqui um caso raro de redução espontânea bem-sucedida de LCJ em um bebê nas suas primeiras 24 horas de vida.

Effectiveness of Health-Led Cognitive Behavioral-Based Group Therapy on Pain, Functional Disability and Psychological Outcomes among Knee Osteoarthritis Patients in Malaysia

Background: Psychosocial interventions for patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee to reduce pain and improve physical and psychological functioning are still lacking in Malaysia. Methods: A parallel-group unblinded randomized controlled trial involving 300 patients was conducted in two hospital orthopedics clinics in Malaysia. Patients were randomly assigned to receive cognitive behavioral-based group therapy (n = 150) or no further intervention (n = 150). The primary outcome was the change from baseline in knee pain as determined by the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at 6 months. The data collected were analyzed by covariate-adjusted mixed design repeated measures analysis of variance. All analyses were performed under the terms of intention-to-treat. Results: At 6 months, mean change from baseline in the KOOS knee pain score was 0.6 points (95% CI −1.73 to 2.94) in the control group and 8.9 points (95% CI 6.62 to 11.23) (denoting less knee pain intensity) in the intervention group (significant treatment effect p < 0.0001). Patients treated with such an approach also experienced significant improvement in functional ability when performing activities of daily living and had improved ability to cope with depression, anxiety and pain catastrophizing. Conclusion: The intervention module delivered by healthcare professionals had a sustained effect on knee OA pain and functionality over 6 months, thereby leading to an overall improvement in psychological well-being, thus benefitting most of the Malaysian knee OA patients.

An overview on human serum lectins

An extensive literature survey done on the various naturally occurring lectins in human serum upon its salient features such as methods of detection, level and sites of synthesis, binding specificity, cation dependency, modes of isolation, molecular and functional characterization way back from 1930s to till date was presented in a tabulated section. In addition, the generation of lectin and other immune molecules in vertebrates upon treatment with exogenous elicitors has also been framed in a tabular form. Furthermore, ANEW lectin induced in human serum for the very first time by an exogenous elicitor was detected, isolated and characterized by us whose features are also tabulated explicitly.

Merkel cell carcinoma: Preparing to go the distance

INTRODUCTION

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive malignancy of the skin, with poor clinical outcomes. Typical conditions include a rapidly growing, solitary dome-shaped, violaceous nodule. Several root causes have been identified - sun exposure, age, lighter skin, immunocompromised state, and polyomavirus infection. Wide local excision is the best treatment. The tumour is radiotherapy-responsive. However, the success rate of the treatment with chemotherapy is rather limited. Immunotherapy has shown promising results. Early detection is important to prevent morbidity and mortality.

CASE REPORT

In this literature work, we reported on a particular case of MCC, as exhibited by an 84-year-old Chinese woman, and discussed the clinical features and management of MCC.

DISCUSSION

We highlighted that MCC cases have a link to the polyomavirus 5. Patients who were identified with the Polyomavirus 5, and underwent immunotherapy, were seen to depict much better prognosis.

A case of acute compartment syndrome of the hand complicating subcutaneous emphysema due to accidental nitrogen gas insufflation

Non-infectious subcutaneous emphysema of the hand has previously been mentioned in literature. In most cases, it presents in a benign and self-resolving form, which may be managed conservatively. However, in cases of subcutaneous emphysema involving insufflation with nitrogen gas, clinical vigilance is advised as acute compartment syndrome may be a potential complication due to the non-permeative nature of the gas. This would necessitate a complete change in the dynamics of management, warranting urgent surgical intervention. Current literature on acute compartment syndrome of the hand complicating subcutaneous emphysema is scarce. This report aims to highlight this unique case and add to the current literature on this rare condition.

High body fat percentage and low consumption of dairy products were associated with vitamin D inadequacy among older women in Malaysia

BACKGROUND

Serum vitamin D insufficiency is a public health issue, especially among older women. Sun exposure is fundamental in the production of vitamin D, but older women have less optimal sun exposure. Therefore, factors such as body composition and diet become more essential in sustaining sufficient serum levels of vitamin D. The objective of the current study is to determine factors contributing towards serum vitamin D insufficiency among 214 older women.

METHODS

The respondents had their body weight, height, waist circumference and body fat percentage measured, as well as interviewed for their socio-demographic characteristics, sun exposure and dietary intake. Fasting blood samples were obtained from the respondents to measure their serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration.

RESULTS

There were 82.7% (95% CI: 77.6%, 87.8%) of the respondents that had serum vitamin D insufficiency (< 50 nmol/L) with an average of 37.4 ± 14.3nmol/L. In stepwise multiple linear regression, high percentage of body fat (ß = -0.211, p <0.01) and low consumption of milk and dairy products (ß = 0.135, p <0.05) were the main contributors towards insufficient serum vitamin D levels, but not socio-demographic characteristics, other anthropometric indices, sun exposure and diet quality.

CONCLUSION

Older women with high body fat percentage and low dairy product consumption were more likely to have serum vitamin D insufficiency. Older women should ensure their body fat percentage is within a healthy range and consume more milk and dairy products in preventing serum vitamin D insufficiency.

Prevalence of Absence of Palmaris Longus and Its Association with Gender, Hand Dominance and Absence of FDS Tendon to Little Finger Among Malay Population

BACKGROUND

Palmaris Longus is being widely used in reconstructive, plastic and cosmetic surgeries due to its long tendon. It is the most readily available source for tendon grafting. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus and its association with gender, hand dominance and absence of FDS (flexor digitorum superficialis) tendon to little finger among Malay population.

METHODS

An analytical cross sectional study design was used and a self-administered proforma was distributed for data collection. 1239 Malay secondary school children in Putrajaya were tested for absence of Palmaris Longus using Schaffer's test. 4 additional tests namely Thompson's test, Mishra's test I, Mishra's test II and Pushpakumar's 'two-finger sign' method were used to confirm its absence in respondents with negative Schaffer's test. Function of Flexor Digitorum Superficialis tendon to little finger was determined by flexing PIP of little finger while hyperextend the other fingers.

RESULTS

The prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus was 11.7%. Left side absence of Palmaris Longus was much common. There was a significant association between absence of Palmaris Longus with gender in which female had higher prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus than male.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus in Malay population was lower than Indian but higher than Chinese population. Females had higher prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus and no association can be found with hand dominance and absence of Flexor Digitorum Superficialis tendon to little finger.

Office Exercise Training to Reduce and Prevent the Occurrence of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Office Workers: A Hypothesis

Pain in specific areas of the body (including the lower back, neck, and shoulders) due to extended periods of sitting and inactivity is the most widespread musculoskeletal disorder worldwide and has consequences that are both socio-economic and personal. This condition is particularly prevalent in industrialised countries, affecting roughly 70% to 80% of adults at some point in their lives; approximately 1% of the U.S. population is chronically disabled by this type of pain disorder. A practical way to reduce the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among office workers would have a significant positive impact. More work is required to develop a package of exercises designed to prevent and treat musculoskeletal pain in office workers. Such a package would be preferable to pharmacological treatments, which can have undesirable side effects. The main objective of this package would be to increase the flexibility and strength of trunk muscles in order to decrease the soreness, pain, and degree of discomfort. In this article, we introduce our proposed package of exercises, which are based on guidelines issued bythe American College of Sports Medicine.

Prevalence Rate of Musculoskeletal Discomforts Based on Severity Level Among Office Workers

There are a variety of body aches that fall under the umbrella term of Musculoskeletal Discomforts (MSDs). These can be distinguished based on the level of pain suffered by the patient, ranging from mild and sporadic to serious, constant and fatal. It has been suggested that a link exists between MSDs and risk factors involving one’s occupational conditions and physicality. Examining the prevalence rate of musculoskeletal discomforts based on the severity among office workers was the main objective of this study. In order to achieve this objective, we had, in February 2015, selected from a population of 20 000 Malaysian office workers, 753 subjects within the age range of 20-50 years who have had a minimum of a year’s working experience. For this study, a form of structured questionnaire, known as the Cornell questionnaire, has been evaluated and put to use. Under the watch of the researchers, the subjects were instructed to complete the questionnaire in the morning before they begin their respective jobs. Based on their responses, the Cornell questionnaire has revealed that at least one case of severe pain in the neck, shoulder or lower back, respectively, is suffered by 69.7% of the subjects. In the case of neck-related aches, 15% low pain, whereas 51% involved mild pain and 33.9% were cases of severe pain. That being said, 19.3% low pain in the lower back, while 50.7% suffered from mild pain and 30% had severe pain in the same region. Percentages of 34.9% for high severity, 45.4% for mild severity and 19.7% for low severity were simultaneously reported in the shoulder section. In a nutshell, the study has revealed that, in comparison with body aches in the arms, knees, upper back, forearms, wrists, hands, hips and thighs, the subjects are more vulnerable to body aches in the neck, shoulders and lower back.

Antiproliferative activity of marine stingray Dasyatis sephen venom on human cervical carcinoma cell line

BACKGROUND

Venoms comprise mixtures of numerous bioactive compounds that have a wide range of pharmacologic actions. Toxins from venomous animals have attracted the attention of researchers because of their affinity for primary sites responsible for lethality and their efficacy at extremely low concentrations. The venoms of marine stingrays have not been extensively studied and limited data is available on them. The present study aims to evaluate the antiproliferative and biochemical properties of the venom obtained from a species of marine stingray (Dasyatis sephen) on human cervical cancer cell line HeLa.

METHODS

The antiproliferative effect of D. sephen venom was determined by MTT assay, and the oxidative stress was determined by lipid peroxidation method along with assessment of changes in the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant status. We observed intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels by DCFH-DA method, mitochondrial membrane potential alterations by rhodamine 123 staining and apoptotic morphological changes by acridine orange/ethidium bromide dual staining method.

RESULTS

D. sephen venom enhances lipid peroxidative markers such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, conjugated diene, and lipid hydroperoxide in HeLa cell lines. Stingray venom enhances the ROS levels, which is evidenced by the increased 2-7-diacetyl dichlorofluorescein fluorescence. Further, D. sephen venom treatment altered the mitochondrial membrane potential in HeLa cells. Additionally, we observed increased apoptotic morphological changes in D. sephen venom-treated groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Dasyatis sephen venom exhibits potent antiproliferative effect on HeLa cell line and upon further purification it could be a promising antiproliferative agent.

Two new genera and five new species of Teloganodidae (Ephemeroptera) from South India

Two new genera and five new species of teloganodid mayflies (Ephemeroptera: Pannota: Ephemerelloidea) are described based on larvae from south India: Janohyphella indica, n. gen., n. sp., Indoganodes jobini, n. gen., n. sp., Teloganodes sartorii, n. sp., Dudgeodes palnius, n. sp., and Derlethina tamiraparaniae, n. sp.  Janohyphella, n. gen., is distinguished from the larvae of other teloganodid genera by having a combination of three subequal caudal filaments, lamellate gills on abdominal segments II through V and posterolateral processes well-developed on abdominal segments II through IX, except III. Indoganodes, n. gen., is distinguished from the larvae of other teloganodid genera by having three subequal caudal filaments, lamellate gills on abdominal segments II through VI, posterolateral projections weakly developed on abdominal segments I through V, but distinct on segments VI through IX. Our new species of Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 and Derlethina Sartori, 2008 represent the first discoveries of these genera outside Southeast Asia, with the latter genus previously considered endemic to Borneo. Emendations to the larval species key of known Oriental Teloganodidae are provided. We hypothesize that the occurrence of the new taxa in southern India is a result of the tectonic events associated with the split-up of Gondwana. This illustrates the profound biogeographical significance of how vicariance led to the establishment of some distinct oriental lineages initially on the rafting Indian Deccan Plate, which might have triggered dispersal events for subsequent species diversification in Southeast Asia. 

Effect of curcumin on the modulation of αA- and αB-crystallin and heat shock protein 70 in selenium-induced cataractogenesis in Wistar rat pups

PURPOSE

To investigate the expression of αA- and αB-crystallin and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp 70) during curcumin treatment of selenium-induced cataractogenesis in Wistar rat pups.

METHODS

Group I Wistar rat pups received only saline and served as the control. Group II Wistar rat pups were intraperitoneally injected with selenium (15 µM/kg bodyweight) to induce cataract. Group III Wistar rat pups also underwent selenium-induced cataract but were cotreated with 75 mg/kg body weight of curcumin (single oral dose). Group IV Wistar rat pups with selenium-induced cataract were post-treated with curcumin at the group III dosage 24 h after selenium administration. Group V Wistar rat pups with selenium-induced cataract were pretreated with curcumin at the group III dosage 24 h before selenium administration.

RESULTS

This study found higher levels of αA- and αB-crystallin and Hsp 70 in lenses injected with selenium alone (group II) than in control lenses (group I). Similar results were observed in the group III and IV lenses. In contrast, in group V, the presence of curcumin 24 h before selenium injection decreased the αA- and αB-crystallin and Hsp 70 levels to almost the same as those found in group I lenses.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin suppressed the expression of selenite-induced αA- and αB-crystallin and Hsp 70, and may therefore suppress cataract formation in rat pups.

Effect of curcumin on selenite-induced cataractogenesis in Wistar rat pups

PURPOSE

The present study was aimed at investigating the possible antioxidant potential of curcumin at a dose of 75 mg/kg body weight on selenite-induced cataract in experimental rat pups.

METHODS

Group I: Control rat pups receiving physiological saline; Group II: Selenite-induced group (15 microM/kg body wt); Group III: Selenite-induced group co-treated with curcumin (single dose of curcumin orally 75 mg/kg body wt); Group IV: Selenite-induced animals post-treated (after 24 hrs) with curcumin at a dose mentioned for group III; Group V: Rat pups were pretreated with curcumin (dose as mentioned in Group III), 24 hrs before the administration of selenite. Encapsulated lenses liver, kidney, and serum were analyzed for antioxidant enzymes and malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid peroxidation.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal injection of sodium selenite (15 microM/kg body wt) to 8-10-day-old rat pups led to severe oxidative stress in eye lens as evidenced by enhanced LPO levels that led to cataract formation. Sodium selenite also led to decrease in activities of SOD, GST, GPx, CAT with simultaneous decrease in the levels of GSH, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Treatment with curcumin (75 mg/kg body wt) led to a significant decrease in the levels of LPO, enzymic antioxidants, and nonenzymic antioxidants, which were similar to that of control.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin suppressed selenite-induced oxidative stress and cataract formation in rat pups. The presence of oxidative stress in selenite cataract development and its prevention by curcumin support the possibility that the natural consumption of curcumin in food can help prevent the onset of senile cataract.

Studies on Glycosaminoglycans Isolated from Bivalves Molluscs Tridacna maxima and Perna viridis

The glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in two marine invertebrate molluscs such as Tridacna maxima and Perna viridis were analyzed. Both the species was found to contain variable amounts of GAGs in the form of heparin biomolecules as identified by metachromatic activity and agarose gel electrophoresis analysis. Anticoagulant property of the biomolecules was assessed by anti factor Xa activity. Their molecular weight was estimated as 15000 and 9000 Daltons through GPC-HPLC. The 1HNMR analysis of heparin was used to predict binding sites of the heparin. Structural characterization studies clearly demonstrated that heparin is the major GAGs constituents in the test animals. Key words: Anticoagulant, Bivalves molluscs, Glycosaminoglycans, Heparin, InvertebratesDOI: 10.3126/on.v7i1.2548Our Nature (2009) 7:10-17  

Anti-cataractogenic effect of curcumin and aminoguanidine against selenium-induced oxidative stress in the eye lens of Wistar rat pups: An in vitro study using isolated lens

The aim of this study was to investigate whether curcumin and aminoguanidine (AG) prevent selenium-induced cataractogenesis in vitro. On postpartum day 8, transparent isolated lens were incubated in 24 well plates containing Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM). Isolated lens of group I were incubated with DMEM medium alone. Group II: lenses incubated in DMEM containing 100microM sodium selenite; group III: lenses incubated in DMEM containing 100microM sodium selenite and 100microM curcumin; group IV: lenses incubated in DMEM containing 100microM sodium selenite and 200microM curcumin; group V: lenses incubated in DMEM containing 100microM sodium selenite and 100microM AG; group V: lenses incubated in DMEM containing 100microM sodium selenite and 200microM AG. On day 12, cataract development was graded using an inverted microscope and the lenses were analyzed for enzymic as well as non-enzymic antioxidants, lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide anion (O(2)(-)) and hydroxyl radical generation (OH) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity by Western blotting and RT-PCR. All control lenses in group I were clear (0). In groups II and III, all isolated lenses developed cataract with variation in levels (+++ or ++), whereas isolated lenses from groups IV, V and VI were clear (0). In agreement to this, a decrease in antioxidants and increased free radical generation and also iNOS expression were observed in selenium exposed lenses when compared to other groups. AG (100microM) was found to be more effective in anti-cataractogenic effect than curcumin (200microM). Curcumin and AG suppressed selenium-induced oxidative stress and cataract formation in isolated lens from Wistar rat pups, possibly by inhibiting depletion of enzymic as well as non-enzymic antioxidants, and preventing uncontrolled generation of free radicals and also by inhibiting iNOS expression. Our results implicate a major role for curcumin and AG in preventing cataractogenesis in selenite-exposed lenses, wherein AG was found to be more potent.

Isolation, purification and characterization of beta-1,3-glucan binding protein from the plasma of marine mussel Perna viridis

A beta-1,3-glucan binding protein (betaGBP) specific for laminarin (a beta-1,3-glucan) was detected for the first time in a mollusc, Perna viridis. betaGBP was isolated and purified from the plasma using laminarin precipitation and affinity chromatography on laminarin-Sepharose 6B, respectively. It agglutinated bakers yeast, bacteria, and erythrocytes and enhanced prophenoloxidase (proPO) activity of the plasma in a dose-dependent manner. The purified betaGBP appeared as a single band in native-PAGE and the purity was conformed by HPLC. The protein has a molecular weight estimate of 510kDa as determined by SDS-PAGE and in isoelectric focusing the purified betaGBP was focused as a single band at pI 5.3. betaGBP was found to possess inherent serine protease activity but lacked beta-1,3-glucanase activity and all these results suggest that plasma betaGBP of P. viridis functions as a recognition molecule for beta-1,3-glucan on the surface of microbial cell walls. This recognition and binding lead to the activation of the prophenoloxidase cascade mediated by the inherent serine protease activity of betaGBP. Presence of agglutinating activity and serine protease activity shows that betaGBP is a bifunctional protein. The findings are discussed in light of the importance of this protein in the innate immune response of P. viridis, and they implicate evolutionary link with similar proteins found in other invertebrates.

Extraction of heparin and heparin-like substance from marine mesogastropod mollusc Turritella attenuata (Lamarck, 1779)

Heparin was extracted from marine gastropod T. attenuata through the sequential precipitation with methanol and ethanol. The metachromatic dye method using toluidine blue was used to estimate colorimetrically the amount of heparin present in the sample. The anticoagulant activity of the sample was calculated as per United States of Pharmacopoeia standard procedure using sheep blood. After the purification, samples were analyzed, for the presence of heparin, with agarose-gel electrophoresis and HPLC and the mobility of the sample and the peak respectively were compared with standard heparin. The results of the present study shall help in finding out alternate source.

In vitro production of superoxide and nitric oxide (as nitrite and nitrate) by Mytilus galloprovincialis haemocytes upon incubation with PMA or laminarin or during yeast phagocytosis

The phagocytic process is one of the most important elements of the self-defence system in mammals as well as in molluscs. In mammalian phagocytes, superoxide participates in the innate defence system by combining with nitric oxide to generate peroxynitrite, a strong oxidant that possesses highly cytotoxic properties against bacteria. To evidence a role of nitric oxide in the self-defence system of the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis similar to the role observed in the mammalian defence system, we measured the generation of superoxide and nitrite/nitrate (the stable end products of nitric oxide) upon in vitro stimulation of M. galloprovincialis haemocytes with PMA, laminarin, LPS and by phagocytosis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast cells). We show that stimulation with PMA, laminarin and yeast cell phagocytosis promotes superoxide and nitrite/nitrate generation from M. galloprovincialis haemocytes. Inhibitors of NADPH oxidase and inhibitors of NO synthase decreased the nitrite/nitrate levels generated by M. galloprovincialis haemocytes showing that both NADPH oxidase and NO synthase pathways are involved in the self-defence system of M. galloprovincialis.

Purification and characterization of a natural agglutinin from the serum of the hermit crab Diogenes affinis

A natural agglutinin from the serum of the hermit crab Diogenes affinis was purified to homogeneity by a single-step affinity chromatography using N-acetylglucosamine-coupled Sepharose 6B. The purified serum agglutinin (PSA) showed a strong affinity for rat RBC, and its hemagglutinating (HA) activity was specifically dependent on Ca2+ and reversibly sensitive to EDTA. PSA in active form has a molecular mass estimate of 185 kDa and is composed of four non-identical subunits (51, 49, 42 and 39 kDa) cross-linked by interchain disulfide bonds. The homogeneity of PSA was corroborated by immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoretic analyses using rabbit antiserum raised against the agglutinin. The antibodies in this antiserum appear to be specific for RBC-binding sites of the agglutinin molecules as revealed by the ability of the antiserum to neutralize HA activities of both whole serum and PSA of D. affinis. In HA-inhibition assays performed with several carbohydrates and glycoproteins, PSA showed a distinct and unique specificity for acetyl group in carbohydrates independently of the presence of this group on C-2 or C-5 and its stereochemical arrangement in the axial or equatorial orientation. Besides, this agglutinin appears to recognize the terminal N- and O- acetyl groups in the oligosaccharide chain of glycoconjugates. The HA activity of D. affinis agglutinin was also susceptible to inhibition by lipopolysaccharides from diverse gram-negative bacteria, which might indicate a significant in vivo role of this humoral agglutinin in the host immune response against bacterial infections.

Activation of prophenoloxidase in the plasma and haemocytes of the marine mussel Perna viridis Linnaeus

Phenoloxidase activity was detected in plasma and haemocytes of the marine mussel Perna viridis. This enzyme exists as a proenzyme, prophenoloxidase (proPO), in both these haemolymph fractions and could be activated in vitro by exogenous proteases (trypsin and alpha-chymotrypsin) and a detergent (sodium dodecyl sulphate). In addition, laminarin (a polymer of beta-1,3 glucan) and bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPSa) effectively triggered proPO activation in these haemolymph fractions. The activation of proPO by non-self molecules was dependent upon calcium ions at a low concentration. This activation process appeared to involve a limited proteolysis, since serine protease inhibitors (soybean trypsin inhibitor, benzamidine or p-nitrophenyl-p'-guanidinobenzoate) suppressed conversion of proPO to the active enzyme. This study demonstrates the selective response of plasma and haemocytic proPO to activation by different types of bacterial LPS tested and suggests that proPO system in both plasma and haemocytes of P. viridis serves an important function in non-self recognition and host immune reactions.

A lipopolysaccharide-binding hemagglutinin with specificity for acetylated aminosugars in the serum of the hermit crab Diogenes affinis (Henderson)

A naturally occurring hemagglutinin was detected in the serum of the hermit crab Diogenes affinis, and its erythrocyte (RBC) binding activities, physicochemical properties, and carbohydrate binding specificity were characterized. Both the hemagglutination profile and the pattern of cross-reactivity of the serum with different RBC types in cross-adsorption tests suggested a strong affinity of the serum agglutinin for rat RBC. Further analysis revealed that the agglutinin was specifically dependent on Ca2+ for its hemagglutinating activity and reversibly sensitive to EDTA. The activity was found to be stable between pH 6.0 and 7.5, heat-labile, and completely precipitable by ammonium sulphate or TCA, suggesting the proteinaceous nature of the serum agglutinin. In hemagglutination-inhibition assays, the serum agglutinin of D. affinis showed a distinct and unique specificity for acetyl group-containing carbohydrates and glycoprotein. Furthermore, the hemagglutinating activity of the serum agglutinin was also inhibited by lipopolysaccharide from Salmonella abortus equi, which might indicate a significant role of humoral agglutinin in the immune response of crustaceans against bacterial infection.

Characterization of a natural hemagglutinin in the serum of a freshwater crab Parathelphusa hydrodromus (Herbst)

A naturally occurring hemagglutinin (HA) was detected in the serum of the freshwater crab Parathelphusa hydrodromus using mammalian erythrocytes (RBC) as indicator cells. The serum gave the highest HA titer with rabbit RBC. In cross adsorption tests, this RBC type completely adsorbed all HA activities from serum. An analysis of the physico-chemical properties of HA showed it to be specifically dependent on the presence of Ca2+ for its activity, irreversibly sensitive to EDTA, stable between pH 7.5 and 10.0, and heat-labile. Further studies demonstrated that the HA is proteinaceous as it was precipitable by conventional deproteinizing agents, and susceptible to the action of proteases and 2-mercaptoethanol. HA-inhibition assays performed with 44 carbohydrates revealed that the serum HA was specific for non-reducing terminal glucose with alpha 1-2 glycosidic linkage. Thus this agglutinin appears to be unique among all the known crustacean agglutinins.

Chloride masks effects of opposing positive charges in Hb A and Hb Hinsdale (beta 139 Asn-->Lys) that can modulate cooperativity as well as oxygen affinity

In the human hemoglobin variant Hb Hinsdale, lysine is substituted for asparagine at position beta 139 (H17), which lies in the water-filled cavity that runs through the center of the molecule. This substitution adds two extra cationic residues to the excess of four cationic residues normally lining this cavity. Moo-Penn and colleagues who discovered this hemoglobin, found its oxygen affinity in 0.5 M bis-Tris buffer to be lower than that of Hb A. Their finding conflicted with our prediction that additional cationic groups lining the central cavity would destabilize the T-structure by increased electrostatic repulsion and thereby increase the oxygen affinity. We have, therefore, remeasured the ligand-binding properties of Hb Hinsdale. In chloride-free Hepes buffer, Hb Hinsdale has greatly increased oxygen affinity and lower cooperativity than Hb A. A comparison of the properties of Hb A, Hb Hinsdale, Hb Deer Lodge (beta 2 His-->Arg) and Hb Abruzzo (beta 143 His-->Arg) in 0.05 M Hepes versus 0.05 M bis-Tris buffers shows that very low chloride concentrations can significantly alter cooperativity as well as oxygen affinity. The apparent conflict between the findings of Moo-Penn and colleagues and our prediction arises from the enhanced chloride effects exhibited by Hb Hinsdale. On going from 0.05 M Hepes to 0.05 M bis-Tris at pH 7.0, log P50 values for Hb A and Hb Hinsdale are increased by 0.28 and 1.12, respectively. The Bohr effect, the kinetics of oxygen dissociation, the second-order rate constant of CO binding and the rate of CO recombination after flash photolysis were also determined for Hb Hinsdale. The enhanced chloride sensitivity of Hb Hinsdale is consistent with the allosteric mechanism of chloride interactions proposed by Perutz et al. in the accompanying paper.

Mobilization of copper among tissues in the estuarine crab Scylla serrata (Forskal) under imposed starvation

The quantitative changes in copper free and bound to proteins in haemolymph and different forms of copper in muscle and hepatopancreas under imposed starvation were studied in the estuarine mud crab Scylla serrata. During the course of starvation, both haemolymph copper free and bound to proteins significantly declined and the regression analyses of these data further revealed that the haemolymph copper-free proteins were more affected than copper-bound proteins. The multiple stress condition namely injury and exsanguination along with starvation resulted in an earlier release and/or degradation of both these proteins. Hepatopancreas periodically accumulates and releases copper during starvation. The copper levels in haemolymph and hepatopancreas during different days of starvation showed a close inverse relationship between these two tissues. These changes in hepatopancreas were predominantly reflected in the copper that exists in association with low molecular weight substances. It is found that the copper thus accumulated was partly released back into haemolymph and a fraction may be excreted. This study also indicates the major role played by the low molecular weight substances in accommodation, detoxification and mobilization of copper in the decapod hepatopancreas during imposed starvation.

Significance of the variation in haemolymph copper-free- and -bound proteins during ageing and time of day in the crab Scylla serrata (Forskal)

During growth or ageing the total quantity of copper-free proteins in haemolymph of S. serrata increases at a higher rate than copper-bound proteins. The copper-free proteins are specifically degraded to meet the energy demand imposed by outburst of nocturnal activity during night hours, while the copper-bound proteins remain unaffected, signifying the importance of Cu-bound proteins in the normal physiology of the animal.