Emerging insights into cephalic neural crest disorders: A single center experience

Objectives

Neural crest cells (NCCs) are transient structures in the fetal life in vertebrates, which develop at the junctional site of the non-neural and neural ectoderm, sharing a common developmental origin for diverse diseases. After Epithelio-mesenchymal (EMT) of the NCCs within the neural tube, delamination of NCCs occurs. After delamination, the transformation of these cells into various cell lineages produces melanocytes, bones, and cartilage of the skull, cells of the enteric and peripheral nervous system. After the conversion, these cells migrate into various locations of the entire body according to the cell lineage. Abnormalities in neural crest (NC) formation and migration result in various malformations and tumors, known as neurocristopathy.

Material and Methods

Herein, this case series describes a single-center experience in cephalic NC disorders over the past 3 years, including 17 cases of varying composition (i.e., vascular, dysgenetic, mixed, and neoplastic forms) involving the brain and occasionally skin, eyes, and face of the patients.

Results

In our study of 17 patients with cephalic NC disease, 6 (35.3%) patients had vascular form, 5 (29.4%) had dysgenetic form, 4 (23.5%) had mixed form, and 2 (11.7%) had neoplastic form. Brain involvement in the form of vascular or parenchyma or both vascular and parenchymal was seen in all of our patients (100%), skin in 6 (35.3%) patients, eye in 2 (11.7%), and face in 1 (5.9%) patient. Treatment was planned according to the various manifestations of the disease.

Conclusion

Neural crest diseases (NCDs) are a rare and under-recognized group of disorders in the literature and may have been under-reported due to a lack of awareness regarding the same. More such reporting may increase the repertoire of these rare disorders such that clinicians can have a high degree of suspicion leading to early detection and timely counseling and also improve preventive strategies and help in developing new drugs for these disorders or prevent them.

Antioxidant supplementation during treatment of outpatient dogs with parvovirus enteritis ameliorates oxidative stress and attenuates intestinal injury: A randomized controlled trial

A prospective randomized controlled clinical study was conducted to determine whether antioxidant supplementation as an adjunct therapy alters hemogram, oxidative stress, serum intestinal fatty acid binding protein-2 (IFABP-2) level, fecal viral load, clinical score (CS) and survivability in outpatient canine parvovirus enteritis (CPVE) dogs. The dogs with CPVE were randomized to one of the five treatment groups: supportive treatment (ST) alone, ST with N-acetylcysteine (ST+NAC), resveratrol (ST+RES), coenzyme Q10 (ST+CoQ10) or ascorbic acid (ST+AA). The primary outcome measures were reduction of CS and fecal HA titre, and enhancement of survivability. Secondary outcome measures were reduction of oxidative stress indices and IFABP-2 level from day 0 to day 7. The mean CS and HA titre were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased from day 0 to 7 in ST and all antioxidant groups. The supplementations of NAC, RES and AA along with ST markedly (P < 0.05) reduced the concentrations of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide and IFABP-2 on day 7 as compared to ST alone. Additionally, NAC and RES supplementations markedly (P < 0.05) improved the total leukocyte count and neutrophil count in CPVE-affected dogs. NAC and RES could serve as better antioxidants for the amelioration of oxidative stress in CPVE but, the antioxidants did not confer any additional benefits in reduction of CS, fecal HA tire, or survivability when compared with ST alone.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Appearance of Giant Intracerebral Tuberculoma: A Retrospective Analysis

Background: Giant intracerebral tuberculomas are rare lesions but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracranial space-occupying lesion in an endemic region.Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze the clinical data and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of giant intracerebral tuberculomas to improve the diagnostic precision.Material and Methods: The clinical and MRI findings of 22 patients of giant intracerebral tuberculoma were analyzed retrospectively. For the statistical analysis independent sample Student t-test was used.Results: For 22 patients included in this sample the giant intracerebral tuberculoma was of size more than 2.5cm. The majority of the giant tuberculomas (19 patients (86.4%))was located in the supratentorial area.T2-weighted hypointense core of giant tuberculoma was observed in 12 patients (54.5%) and T1 hyperintensities were observed in peripheral (wall) of the giant tuberculoma in 14 patients (63.6%). The mean ADC value of the peripheral (wall) of the giant tuberculoma was 1.034± 0.466[SD] x 10-3mm2/s and the core was 0.994± 0.455[SD] x 10-3mm2/s with a statistically significant difference (p-value <0.0005) in between. MR spectroscopy showed raised lipid peak at 0.9 to 1.33 ppm in 10 patients (45.5%),raised lipid-lactate peak in 12 patients (54.5%),raised Choline/Cr ratio more than 1.2 in 14 patients(63.6%) and Choline/Cr ratio less than 1.2 in 5 patients (22.7%). Associated involvement of lung was observed in the 6patients (27.3%), cervical lymph node in 1 patient (4.5%) and spine in 1patient (4.5%).Conclusions: MRI plays a vital role in distinguishing giant intracerebral tuberculomas from other intracranial space-occupying lesions, thereby allows the early institution of anti-tubercular treatment (ATT), decreased patient morbidity, mortality, and prevents unnecessary neurosurgical excision.

Diffusion tensor imaging analysis of rheumatoid arthritis patients with neuropsychiatric features to determine the alteration of white matter integrity due to vascular events

INTRODUCTION

The pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric manifestations in rheumatoid arthritis is not well known. The magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in rheumatoid arthritis demonstrates non-specific findings, and in the majority of cases, magnetic resonance imaging fails to detect an abnormality, even in rheumatoid arthritis patients with neuropsychiatric manifestations. Therefore, we aimed to assess microstructural integrity changes of white matter in patients with rheumatoid arthritis by using different diffusion tensor imaging parameters.

METHODS

Eighteen rheumatoid arthritis patients (10 with neuropsychiatric symptoms and 8 without any neuropsychiatric symptoms) and 14 controls were included. The volume of the T2 hyperintense lesions was assessed. Different diffusion tensor imaging parameters such as fractional anisotropy, apparent diffusion coefficient, trace, axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity were obtained from six different regions of white matter. Inter group significant difference was determined by one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test. The accuracy of diffusion tensor imaging matrices was evaluated from the receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

No significant difference in lesions' volume was detected between rheumatoid arthritis patients with or without neuropsychiatric symptoms. There was an increased apparent diffusion coefficient and radial diffusivity (p < 0.05) as well as decreased fractional anisotropy and axial diffusivity (p < 0.5) in rheumatoid arthritis patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms compared to controls. Moreover, the apparent diffusion coefficient (p < .05) was increased in both positive and negative MRI of patients with neuropsychiatric features compared to the control group. The sensitivity and specificity of the apparent diffusion coefficient parameters was 73% and 72%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The various anisotropic metrics were altered in rheumatoid arthritis patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms by using diffusion tensor imaging analysis, representing that central nervous system vasculitis leads to tissue hypoxia resulting in vasogenic edema. This may lead to axonal and myelin degeneration of white matter fibers and neuronal cell disruption. Key Points • Our study confirms that neurovascular events are not uncommon in RA patients with NP features. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is superior to conventional MRI scan for RA patients with NP features because it distinguishes between gray and white matter structures. • RA patients with NP features are more likely to have microstructural changes detected by DTI than by DWI, and it can provide comprehensive anatomical layouts describing regional disparities in neurodegeneration. • DTI's quantitative association of NP symptoms in a large patient cohort is an important study scope.

Moyamoya Syndrome in Schimke Immune-Osseous Dysplasia: A Rare Association

Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia (SIOD) is an uncommon autosomal recessive (AR) spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia (SED) and its clinical course and phenotype are yet to be properly described. The phenotypic presentation is quite varied with involvement of the renal, skeletal, vascular, immune, and hematopoietic systems being the most common presentation. We describe a 19-year-old female who presented with adolescent-onset brain and skeletal involvement without renal manifestations. Based on imaging and clinical features, she was diagnosed with a case of SIOD. There is no definitive treatment yet for this disorder, however, clinicians should be aware of this disorder so that adequate counseling and symptomatic management, especially in controlling hypertension and dyslipidemia, can be provided to the affected patients.

Megalencephaly-Capillary Malformation-Polymicrogyria Syndrome (MCAP): A Rare Dynamic Genetic Disorder

Megalencephaly-capillary malformation-polymicrogyria syndrome (MCAP) is an uncommon malformation syndrome, characterized by primary megalencephaly, capillary malformations of the midline face and body, or distal limb anomalies such as syndactyly and polymicrogyria. Herein, we report a young male child, who presented with complaints of increasing head size, delay in speech, and one episode of focal seizure with distinctive morphological and neuroradiological manifestations which led to the diagnosis of MCAP. We have also reviewed recently published literature and the various diagnostic criteria proposed by authors to achieve the early clinical diagnosis of these patients in the outpatient department.

A 5-Year Prospective Study on Incidence and Clinico-pathological Changes Associated with Naturally Occurring Trypanosomosis in Dogs of Mizoram, India

PURPOSE

The present research was taken to study the hospital-based incidence and clinico-pathological changes associated with naturally occurring trypanosomosis in dogs of Mizoram.

METHODS

A 5-year prospective study on hospital-based incidence and clinico-pathological changes associated with naturally occurring trypanosomosis in dogs of Mizoram was carried out during the study period from April, 2015 to March, 2020. Trypanosoma evansi infection was confirmed by microscopic examination and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Non-infected clinically healthy dogs (n = 6) served as control. Blood samples were collected to study the haemogram and serum samples were used for the evaluation of serum biochemical parameters and oxidant-antioxidant parameters.

RESULTS

During the study period, an overall incidence of 0.25% was recorded for trypanosomosis in dogs. The most consistent clinical findings noticed were anorexia/inappetence, pyrexia, depression/lethargy, pale mucous membrane, dehydration and lymphadenomegaly. Anaemia, granulocytopenia, lymphocytosis and thrombocytopenia were the major findings noticed in trypanosomosis affected dogs. The profile of vital organ function revealed that the mean values of total protein, albumin and random blood glucose were significantly (P < 0.05) lower, whereas the mean values of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in dogs affected with trypanosomosis. The mean value of lipid hydroperoxide (LPO) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher, whereas the mean values of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant activity (TAOA) were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in trypanosomosis affected dogs. When total erythrocyte count (TEC) was correlated with LPO (r = - 0.631, P < 0.05), a negative correlation was found, while in case of GSH (r = 0.757, P < 0.05), SOD (r = 0.767, P < 0.05) and TAOA (r = 0.713, P < 0.05), it was positively correlated.

CONCLUSION

A negative correlation of TEC count with LPO, while a positive correlation with GSH, SOD and TAOA signify the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of anaemia induced by T. evansi infection in dogs. The present study findings might be helpful to clinicians when treating clinical cases of this kind. Incorporation of organ protective drugs and antioxidants in the treatment schedule may result in better prognosis.

Added value of 3D-DRIVE and SWI Magnetic Resonance Imaging Sequences in Intraventricular Neurocysticercosis (IVNCC): An Institutional Experience from Northeast India

Background:

Prompt diagnosis and early treatment institution are important in intraventricular neurocysticercosis (IVNCC) as compared to the parenchymal or racemose form because it is associated with a poorer patient prognosis. Intraventricular neurocysticercosis is often missed on CT scan or conventional cranial magnetic resonance imaging because of similar density or signal intensity of cysticercus lesion with cerebrospinal fluid.Thestudy aims to evaluate the added value of 3D-DRIVE and SWI MRI sequences in isolated intraventricular cysticercosis with acute neurological presentation.

Methods and Materials:

This retrospective study was carried out on diagnosed 10 patients with isolated intraventricular neurocysticercosis (IVNCC) presented to a tertiary care hospital with an acute onset of symptoms or acute neurological deficit between June 2019 to May 2021. Relevant neurological examination, CSF analysis, a serological test of neurocysticercosis and MRI scan of the brain were performed.

Result:

Tenpatients of isolated intraventricular neurocysticercosis (3 males and 7 females) having 3 pediatric and 7 adults were included in this study sample.The common neurological complications of the isolated intraventricular neurocysticercosis in this study are observed as obstructive hydrocephalus in 8(80%) patients and ependymitis in 7(70%) patients. IVNCC with distinctly visualized scolex (visibility score 2) identified in 2(20%) patients in T2WI, 8 (80%) patients in 3D-DRIVE and 3(30%) patients in SWI sequences. The cyst wall of IVNCC was distinctly visualized (visibility score 2) in 1(10%) patient in T2WI, 8(80%) patients in 3D-DRIVE and 6(60%) patients in SWI sequence.

Conclusion:

Heavily T2-weighted steady-state and SWI sequences should be added to routine MRI sequences that helps to identify IVNCC and should be used in patients with unexplained hydrocephalus, especially in endemic regions of Neurocysticercosis.

Normative magnetic resonance imaging measurements of orbital structures in pediatric population of North-Eastern India: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Purpose:

The people of Northeast India comprise mostly of Mongoloid descent with characteristic craniofacial features. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the normal orbital structures with MRI and determine normative data in the Northeast Indian pediatric population.

Methods:

MRI images of the 302 orbits of 151 pediatric patients below 16 years of age were retrospectively evaluated to measure the various orbital structures. Both axial and coronal MRI images were utilized for various orbital measurements. An independent sample t-test was done to compare various orbital data according to the sex and side. Linear regression was also done.

Results:

The mean age of the pediatric population was 9.64 ± 1.47 years with a male: Female ratio of 1.13:1. The mean interzygomatic line was 88.4 ± 9.09 mm and the interorbital line was 22.18 ± 3.62 mm. The mean thicknesses of medial, lateral, superior, and inferior recti muscles were 2.58 ± 0.46, 2.34 ± 0.42, 2.16 ± 0.40, and 2.53 ± 0.49 mm in males and 2.41 ± 0.41, 2.08 ± 0.34, 2.08 ± 0.46, and 2.46 ± 0.49 mm in females. The mean horizontal orbital, vertical orbital diameters, orbital index, mean volume of eyeball, and orbital cavity were 30.27 ± 2.97,3 7.06 ± 3.57, 122.58 ± 7.39, 4.63 ± 0.84, and 15.29 ± 3.52 in males, while 29.16 ± 3.23, 34.96 ± 3.99,119.96 ± 7.31, 4.49 ± 0.87, and 14.65 ± 3.47 in females, respectively. With an increase in age, the interzygomatic line (r = 0.883, r² = 0.780; P < 0.0005), anterior medial interorbital line (r = 0.808, r² = 0.652; P < 0.0005), mean volume of eyeball (r = 0.915, r² = 0.838; P < 0.0005), orbital cavity (r = 0.924, r² = 0.854; P < 0.0005), and distance between the optic nerve entry site (r = 0.829, r² = 0.687; P < 0.0005) were increased.

Conclusion:

This study provides normative data of various orbital structures in a pediatric population and these data likely to be useful for diagnosing various pediatric orbital disorders and helps in the planning of various surgical procedures of orbits.

Endovascular Parent Artery Occlusion for Intracranial Aneurysms is a Viable, Cost-Effective Alternative: An Institutional Experience from Northeast India

Purpose.

Endovascular parent artery occlusion (PAO) may be an alternative approach for complex intracranial aneurysm with potentially life-threatening complications. Moreover, the long-term follow-up of the PAO for an intracranial aneurysm is reported sparingly, limited to the case series. It is therefore important to carry out more research on long-term follow-up of the implication of PAO of intracranial aneurysm. The aim of the study was to analyses our experience of PAO for intracranial aneurysms with emphasis on long-term follow-up.

Materials and Methods.

The data of patients treated with PAO for intracranial aneurysms were reviewed. The outcome was evaluated based on aneurysmal occlusion on immediate angiography, follow-up magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and complications. The modified Rankin score (mRS) was used to evaluate the functional outcome during the last follow-up. The mean, range, and standard deviation were reported for other variables – the patient’s age, number, and percentage.

Results.

Endovascular treatment was performed in 178 patients including PAO in 18 patients. Of these 18 (eighteen) patients, there were 13 dissecting aneurysms, 4 mycotic aneurysms, and one traumatic aneurysm.

10 (ten) patients underwent PAO for proximal intracranial artery aneurysm and 8 (eight) patients for distal cerebral aneurysms. Complete occlusion of the aneurysm was achieved in 16patients (88.89%) and retrograde filling of the aneurysm was seen in 2 (11.11%) patients. One patient had intraprocedural coil migration resulting in a major infarct with an mRS of 2. Another patient (5.56%) had recanalization of the aneurysm and presented with rupture and intracranial hemorrhage with an mRS score of 4. The mRS of the other 16 patients (88.89%) was zero.

Conclusions.

Endovascular PAO for cerebral aneurysms was highly feasible and achieved complete occlusion. The morbidity and mortality rates were at the long-term follow-up also acceptable with negligible complications.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography and Multidetector CT Angiography in the Diagnosis of Takayasu's Arteritis: Assessment of Disease Extent and Correlation with Disease Activity

BACKGROUND

Takayasu's arteritis (TA) is a large vessel vasculitis with diverse clinical presentations and arterial vascular bed involvement. It is characterized by chronic, nonspecific inflammation of all layers of the vessel wall, which results in stenosis, occlusion, dilatation, or aneurysm formation in the involved blood vessels.

METHODS

The study included 36 patients of TA. All patients fulfilled the modified Ishikawa's diagnostic criteria for TA. All patients were evaluated for clinical presentation, angiographic findings, and severity of the disease. The disease activity was assessed based on Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) and also by CT angiography (CTA)/Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging. The angiographic types were classified based on the International TA Conference in Tokyo, 1994 angiographic classification.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients were included in the study, 86% were females and a mean age of 21.6 years. Hypertension (78%) was the most common clinical presentation. Type V was the most common angiographic type (42%), followed by type III (25%), type IV (14%), type IIb (11%), type I (5%) and type IIa (3%). Among the aortic arch branches, the left subclavian artery (50%), right subclavian artery (38.8%), left vertebral artery (33.3%) and left common carotid artery (27.7%) were the most commonly involved arteries. Disease activity based on CT/MR imaging showed a significant statistical correlation with elevated ESR and positive CRP (p < 0.0001). Mediastinal lymphadenopathy was seen in 21 patients, out of which 11 had active disease. However, no significant correlation was found between mediastinal lymphadenopathy and disease activity.

CONCLUSIONS

TA presents varied symptomatology and differing vascular involvement. CT/MR angiography is effective in diagnosis and accurately predicted the active stage of the disease.

Lymphocyte subsets in the small intestine of piglets fed with probiotic and zinc: a qualitative and quantitative micro-anatomical study

BACKGROUND

Piglet mortality is a real concern to the pig farmers. The major cause is due to the late maturation of the immune system and dietary changes in post-weaned piglets. The potential role of probiotic and zinc in the stimulation of the immune system is well established. Hence, the present study was undertaken to evaluate alterations of T and B cells in the small intestine after dietary inclusion of probiotic and zinc in pre and post-weaned piglets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 18 healthy LWY piglets, irrespective of sex obtained from 3 litters at the age-group of 20, 30 and 60 days. They were divided into a control group fed with basal diet and a treatment group fed with probiotic and zinc supplement along with the basal diet, consisting of three animals in each group. The piglets were weaned at 28 days of age. After sacrificing the animals at day 20, 30 and 60 from both the groups, the abdominal cavity was opened and small intestinal tissue samples were collected, processed and stained by indirect immunofluorescence technique. The slides were evaluated under the fluorescent light microscope. The data were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The different T and B cell subsets were recorded in the lining epithelium, core of villus, crypt area of LP and PP area. The number of CD4+, CD8+, IgA+ and IgM+ cells was higher in the treated piglets than the control group of animals, irrespective of segments of intestine and age-group.

CONCLUSIONS

It can be concluded that the dietary supplementation of probiotic and zinc was found to be good additives as they can stimulate the immune response in piglets, especially during the critical early post-weaning period.

Added Value of Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Differentiating Musculoskeletal Tumors Using Sensitivity and Specificity: A Retrospective Study and Review of Literature

Background: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) provides added value to conventional MRI imaging in diagnosing and differentiating various benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors.

Objective: The study aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacies of diffusion-weighted imaging along with the conventional MRI sequences for differentiating benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors using sensitivity and specificity.

Materials and methods: This retrospective study was carried out on 73 histopathologically proven patients of various musculoskeletal tumors who presented to a tertiary care center between March 2017 to October 2018. Relevant clinical examinations and MRI scan of the requested body part of the musculoskeletal system were performed. Mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were calculated in the bone as well as soft tissue tumors after placing uniform-sized region of interest (ROI) in the non-necrotic portion of the tumor.

Statistical analysis: Independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were used to compare the mean ADC values of the various tumors with the histopathology. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done to determine the cut-off mean ADC values in the various bone and soft tissue tumors.

Results: Of 73 patients with musculoskeletal tumors (benign=20, malignant = 53), 47 patients were bone tumors (benign=12, malignant=35) and 26 patients were soft tissue tumors (benign=eight, malignant=18). Mean ADC value of benign bone tumor was 1.257±0.327[SD] x 10^-3mm2/s and malignant was 0.951 ± 0.177[SD] x 10^-3mm2/s. The mean ADC value of benign soft tissue tumor was 1.603±0.444[SD] x 10^-3mm2/s and malignant was 1.036 ± 0.186[SD] x 10^-3mm2/s. The cut-off mean ADC value was 1.058 x 10^-3mm2/s for differentiating benign from malignant bone tumor with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 66.7% and accuracy of 78.7% while the cut-off mean ADC value of 1.198 x 10^-3mm2/s for differentiating benign from malignant soft tissue tumors with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 87.5% and accuracy of 84.6%.

Conclusions: DWI with ADC mapping can be used as an additional reliable tool along with conventional MRI sequences in discriminating benign and malignant musculoskeletal tumors.

Diffusion tensor imaging analysis in scrub typhus meningoencephalitis to determine the alteration of microstructural subcortical white-matter integrity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain in scrub typhus meningoencephalitis is non-specific, and in the majority of the cases, conventional MRI fails to detect any abnormality. However, autopsy reports depict central nervous system involvement in almost all patients. There is therefore a need for research on the quantitative assessment of brain parenchyma that can detect microstructural abnormalities. The study aimed to assess the microstructural integrity changes of scrub typhus meningoencephalitis by using different diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of scrub typhus meningoencephalitis. Seven patients and seven age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included. Different DTI parameters such as apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA), relative anisotropy (RA), trace, volume ratio (VR) and geodesic anisotropy (GA) were obtained from six different regions of subcortical white matter at the level of the centrum semiovale. Intergroup significant difference was determined by one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to determine the accuracy of the DTI matrices.

RESULTS

There was a significant decrease in FA, RA and GA as well as an increase in ADC and VR in the subcortical white matter in patients with scrub typhus meningoencephalitis compared to controls (p < 0.001). The maximum sensitivity of the DTI parameters was 85.7%, and the maximum specificity was 81%.

CONCLUSION

There was an alteration of subcortical white-matter integrity in scrub typhus meningoencephalitis that represents the axonal degeneration, myelin breakdown and neuronal degeneration. DTI may be a useful tool to detect white-matter abnormalities in scrub typhus meningoencephalitis in clinical practice, particularly in patients with negative conventional MRI.

Assessment of certain biomarkers for predicting survival in response to treatment in dogs naturally infected with canine parvovirus

Canine parvovirus (CPV) enteritis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in puppies despite aggressive treatment. Identification of reliable biomarkers for CPV enteritis is essential to determine the severity, duration of hospitalization, and predict the clinical outcome. Meanwhile, the biomarkers will assist in decision-making with clients about the further course of treatment or euthanasia. The present study was conducted to evaluate the changes of total leukocyte count (TLC), neutrophil count, and serum concentrations of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), intestinal fatty acid binding protein-2 (IFABP-2), albumin, ceruloplasmin (Cp), cortisol, free triiodothyronine (FT₃) and free thyroxine (FT₄) in survivors and non-survivors as a predictor of the clinical outcome. Marked leukopenia, neutropenia, hypoalbuminemia, elevated levels of CK-MB, IFABP-2, Cp, and cortisol were noticed in CPV-infected dogs than healthy dogs but, LDH, FT₃ and FT₄ concentrations did not differ significantly. The CPV-infected non-survivors had persistent leukopenia, neutropenia and elevated CK-MB, IFABP-2, Cp and cortisol concentrations at 72 h of commencement of treatment. In CPV-infected survivors, TLC and neutrophil count were significantly increased, and CK-MB, IFABP-2, Cp and cortisol concentrations were significantly decreased at 72 h of commencement of treatment. The positive predictive values (PPVs) for survival using cut-off value of TLC (>3.2 × 10³/μL), neutrophil count (>1.65 × 10³/μL), CK-MB (≤234.50 U/L), IFABP-2 (≤7.61 ng/mL), Cp (≤0.605 g/L) and cortisol (≤16.90 ng/mL) were determined as 89.47%, 88.88%, 94.73%, 93.33%, 94.44% and 89.47%, respectively with better area under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve as well as sensitivity. The magnitude of decrease in TLC, neutrophil count, and increase in CK-MB, IFABP-2, Cp and cortisol concentrations at 72 h of initiation of treatment in dogs with parvoviral enteritis could be useful indicators for the prognosis of the disease. Based on sensitivity (%) and specificity (%) from ROC curve analysis and PPV (%), it is concluded that serum CK-MB concentration will serve as the most useful biomarker followed by Cp and absolute neutrophil count.

Clinical and Laboratory Presentation of Hydatid Disease: A Study From Northeast India

Introduction

Hydatid disease is an immense health problem in developing countries. The diagnosis of hydatid cyst is often difficult because of its protean manifestations. Our objective was to evaluate the various clinical and laboratory presentations of hydatid disease and various modalities of treatment from a tertiary care center.

Materials and methods

We reviewed the clinical and laboratory features of patients presenting with hydatid cyst through retrospective analysis from January 2018 to December 2019 from a tertiary care hospital in northeast India.

Results

Of the 26 adult patients with hydatid cysts who were part of the study, 14 (53.8%) were males and 12 (46.2%) were females. The mean age was 34.6 years. The most common site of involvement was the liver (69%) followed by lung (19.2%) and brain (7.7%). Palpable mass in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen was the most common symptom (88.3%) for liver hydatid cyst followed by pain abdomen (66.6%). Systemic symptoms like fever and weakness were present in most of the patients. The majority of patients (80%) were from rural areas.

Conclusion

Hydatid cysts present with varied symptomatology. History of exposure to infected animals may not be present. A high degree of clinical suspicion combined with meticulous history and clinical examination supported by laboratory investigations are required for its diagnosis.

Small intestinal mucosal cells in piglets fed with probiotic and zinc: a qualitative and quantitative microanatomical study

BACKGROUND

Probiotics and zinc are commonly used and beneficial in pig production. This work aimed to assess the effects of probiotic and zinc on the mucosal cells of the small intestine in respect to digestive capacity and immunity in pre- and post-weaned piglets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen Large White Yorkshire piglets were divided equally into control and treatment groups. The piglets were maintained in standard management conditions and were weaned at 28 days of age. The treatment group of piglets fed a mixture of probiotics orally at 1.25 × 109 CFU/day and zinc at 2000 ppm/day from birth to 10 days of age. At three different age-groups viz. day 20 (pre-weaning) and, day 30 and day 60 (post-weaning), the animals were sacrificed. For histomorphology, the tissue samples were processed and stained with Mayer's haematoxylin and eosin for routine study, combined periodic acid-Schiff-Alcian blue for mucopolysaccharides and Masson-Hamperl argentaffin technique for argentaffin cells. The stained slides were observed under the microscope. The samples were processed as per the standard procedure for scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The statistical analysis of the data using the appropriate statistical tests was also conducted.

RESULTS

The mucosal epithelium of villi and crypts were lined by enterocytes, goblet cells, argentaffin cells, microfold (M-cell) cells, tuft cells and intraepithelial lymphocytes. The multipotent stem cells were located at the crypt base. The length of the enterocyte microvilli was significantly longer (p < 0.05) in the treatment group of piglets. The number of different types of goblet cells and argentaffin cells was more in treated piglets irrespective of segments of intestine and age. The intraepithelial lymphocytes were located in apical, nuclear and basal positions in the lining epithelium of both villus tip and base with their significant increase in the treatment group of piglets. The transmission electron microscopy revealed the frequent occurrence of tuft cells in the lining mucosa of the small intestine in treated piglets.

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary supplementation of probiotic and zinc induced the number of different mucosal cells of villi and crypts in the small intestine that might suggest the greater absorptive capacity of nutrients and effective immunity in critical pre and post-weaned piglets.

Molecular diagnosis and clinico-hemato-biochemical alterations and oxidant-antioxidant biomarkers in Babesia-infected dogs of Mizoram, India

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Babesiosis is a tick transmitted disease, infecting a wide variety of wild and domestic animals, as well as humans. This study was designed to investigate molecular diagnosis and clinic-hemato-biochemical and oxidant/antioxidant status in dogs of Mizoram, India.

METHODS

A total 1200 dogs screened for babesiosis during 2017-18 and 53 dogs suspected for babesiosis by clinical signs and were confirmed by molecular diagnosis. Clinical signs were recorded; also blood samples were taken to investigate hematologic changes, serum biochemical variations and oxidative stress biomarkers.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of babesiosis in dogs of Aizawl, Mizoram, India during the study period recorded was 1.25% (15/1200) and 28.3% cases confirmed from 53 suspected dogs (15/53). The most commonly observed clinical signs were fever, emaciation, depression and icterus and lymphadenopathy. Significant reduction in PCV, HB, RBCs, MCHC, total protein, and albumin along with significant increase in MCV, WBCs, monocytes and BUN were the most consistent hemato-biochemical changes. Oxidant/antioxidant assessment showed significant reduction in superoxide dismutase, catalase and total anti-oxidant (TAC) along with significant increase in lipid peroxidase (LPO) activities.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION

The findings of this study demonstrated that the main causative agent of babesiosis in dogs in Mizoram Province is Babesia gibsoni which caused significant alteration of hemato-biochemical and oxidant-antioxidant status in dogs.

Haemato-biochemical alterations and oxidative stress associated with naturally occurring porcine circovirus2 infection in pigs

Porcine circovirus2 (PCV2) infection in pigs is one of the major causes of economic loss to the farmers in terms of low production, slow growth and increase post-weaning mortality rate. The effect of PCV2 infection on haemogram, serum biochemical profile and oxidant/anti-oxidant status is not well established in pigs. In the present study, haemogram, serum biochemical profile and oxidant/anti-oxidant status were assessed in pigs confirmed positive for PCV2 infections as evidenced by commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (n = 151) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (n = 42) among a total of 306 number of pigs included in the study. Non-infected healthy pigs (n = 6) served as healthy control. The total erythrocyte count (TEC), haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total leukocyte count (TLC), differential leukocyte count (DLC) and thrombocyte count were measured. The levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and glucose and enzymes viz. alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured. Oxidative stress indicators such as plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and total anti-oxidant activity (TAOA) were measured using commercially available kits. The mean values of TLC, lymphocytes and thrombocyte count were significantly (P < 0.05) low in PCV2-infected pigs. The levels of globulin, AST, GGT, BUN and creatinine were significantly increased (P < 0.05) whereas levels of albumin and glucose significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in PCV2-infected pigs. The significant increase (P < 0.05) in MDA level and significant decrease (P < 0.05) in TAOA level were noticed in PCV2-infected animals as compared with healthy control. The present study supports immunosuppression, possible multiple organ damage and oxidative stress associated with naturally occurring PCV2 infection in pigs. Timely vaccination and managemental practices can reduce PCV2 infection in farms. In spite of many research studies, there is still paucity of detailed systemic study on haemato-biochemical alteration and oxidative stress associated with PCV2 infection.

Molecular investigation of vector-borne parasitic infections in dogs in Northeast India

BACKGROUND

Information on the status of vector-borne pathogens among canines in Northeast India is lacking, particularly for the states of Mizoram and Tripura close to the Myanmar border. Blood samples collected from 130 dogs, 80 from Mizoram and 50 from Tripura, were examined in this study.

METHODS

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for filariid worms, Babesia, Hepatozoon, Ehrlichia and Anaplasma spp. and DNA sequencing was then carried out to identify pathogens at the species level.

RESULTS

Vector-borne pathogens were detected in 52% (68/130) of the sampled dogs. The most prevalent pathogen was Babesia gibsoni detected in 56/130 (43%) dogs, followed by Hepatozoon canis in 50/130 (38%), Anaplasma platys in 4/130 (3%), B. vogeli in 4/130 (3%), Acanthochelionema reconditum in 3/130 (2%) and Dirofilaria immitis in 2/130 (2%). Forty-four dogs (34%) were co-infected with two or more pathogens. The most common co-infection observed was with B. gibsoni + H. canis (34%) followed by triple-infection with B. gibsoni + H. canis + A. platys (3%), and B. gibsoni + B. vogeli + H. canis (3%). The infection rate was higher in Mizoram (58%) than in Tripura (44%).

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of infection in the studied dog population, especially with B. gibsoni and H. canis, indicates that vector-borne diseases pose a serious threat to the health of dogs in this area of Northeast India. Prevention of vector-borne diseases by using topical acaricides and heartworm preventative treatment would be of great benefit for reducing the threat of vector-borne diseases in the study area.

Phylogenetic analysis of Spirocerca lupi and Spirocerca vulpis reveal high genetic diversity and intra-individual variation

Background

Spirocerca lupi is a parasitic nematode of canids that can lead to a severe and potentially fatal disease. Recently, a new species, Spirocerca vulpis, was described from red foxes in Europe, suggesting a high genetic diversity of the Spirocerca spp. infecting canids. The genetic variation and phylogenetic relationships of S. lupi collected from naturally-infected domestic dogs from Australia, Hungary, Israel, Italy, India and South Africa, and S. vulpis from red foxes from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy and Spain, was studied using mitochondrial and rDNA markers.

Results

A high intra-individual variation was found in the first internal transcribed spacer (ITS1) locus in all Spirocerca spp., ranging between 0.37–2.84%, with up to six haplotypes per specimen. In addition, a combination of phylogenetic and haplotype analyses revealed a large variability between S. lupi specimens collected from different geographical locations using the ITS1 (0.37–9.33%) and the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene (1.42–6.74%). This genetic diversity led to the identification of two S. lupi genotypes circulating among dogs (PTP support > 0.829), including genotype 1 found in S. lupi from Australia, India, Israel and South Africa, and genotype 2 represented by specimens from Hungary and Italy. These genotypes presented pairwise nucleotide distances of 0.14%, 8.06% and 6.48 ± 0.28% in the small rDNA subunit (18S), ITS1 and cox1 loci, respectively. Additionally, Nei’s genetic distance in the ITS1 showed a further subdivision of genotype 1 worms into 1A (Israel and South Africa) and 1B (Australia and India). A morphological analysis of the anterior and posterior extremities of genotype 1 and genotype 2 worms using scanning electron microscopy did not show any differences between the specimens, contrary to the morphological differences between S. lupi and S. vulpis.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the high genetic variability among Spirocerca spp. from different geographical locations, thereby expanding our understanding of the epidemiology, evolution and phylogenetic variability within the genus.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3202-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Antifolate drug resistance: Novel mutations and haplotype distribution in dhps and dhfr from Northeast India

Malaria is a major public health concern in Northeast India with a preponderance of drug-resistant strains. Until recently the partner drug for artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) was sulphadoxine pyrimethamine (SP). Antifolate drug resistance has been associated with the mutations at dihydropteroate synthase (dhps) and dihydrofolatereductase (dhfr) genes. This study investigated antifolate drug resistance at the molecular level. A total of 249 fever cases from Arunachal Pradesh, NE India, were screened for malaria, and of these, 75 were found to be positive for Plasmodium falciparum. Samples were sequenced and analysed with the help of BioEdit and ClustalW. Three novel point mutations were found in the dhps gene with 10 haplotypes along with the already reported mutations. A single haplotype having quadruple mutation was found in the dhfr gene. The study reports higher degree of antifolate drug resistance as evidenced by the presence of multiple point mutations in dhps and dhfr genes. The findings of this study strongly discourage the use SP as a partner drug in ACT.

Therapeutic management of trypanosomosis with ophthalmic involvement in a dog

The present report communicates a case of canine trypanosomosis with ophthalmic involvement, its diagnosis, hemato-biochemistry and therapeutic management in a 2 year old dog. The dog had history of bilateral corneal opacity and impaired vision since last 4 weeks. On the basis of history and clinical signs, a presumptive diagnosis of canine trypanosomosis was made followed by confirmation with Giemsa stained buffy coat smear examination. Therapeutic regimen was comprised of Diminazine aceturate @ 3.5 mg/kg deep IM for two occasions 24 h apart along with parenteral fluids, hematinics, NSAID and multivitamins which yielded favourable response by third day post-therapy. Haemato-biochemical parameters took nearly 14 days of time to return to near normal levels. Improvement with respect to corneal opacity took 6 weeks of time and the animal was followed up to 3 months without any recurrence.

Diabetes in pregnancy: worse medical outcomes in type 1 diabetes but worse psychological outcomes in gestational diabetes

BACKGROUND

Women with diabetes experience an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

AIM

We aim to describe and quantify the psychological impact of the diagnosis of diabetes in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared to each other and to their counterparts without diabetes.

DESIGN

This is a survey-based study with prospective collection of pregnancy outcome data.

METHODS

A total of 218 pregnant women (50% with diabetes) were administered questionnaires relating to psychological health. Maternal and neonatal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes were collected. Associations between key psychometric and health outcome variables were examined.

RESULTS

At least 25% of women in all three pregnancy groups had scores indicating affective distress in at least one domain. Compared to those with type 1 diabetes, women with GDM evidenced a greater number of uplifts in pregnancy (U = 94, P = 0.041), but also higher levels of overall anxiety (U = 92, P = 0.03) and stress (U = 82, P < 0.01). Women with GDM also had significantly elevated overall depression scores, compared with the control group (U = 34, P = 0.02). Both groups of women with diabetes had clinically elevated levels of diabetes-related distress. There were no associations between maternal psychological variables and pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlights a potential role for targeted psychological interventions to address and relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression among pregnant women with diabetes.

A Study to Assess the Validity of Estimation of Serum Ostase Level in Hyperthyroid and Hypothyroid Cases

INTRODUCTION

One of the more specific assessments of the metabolic status of bone in normal and in disease conditions is the measurement of bone specific alkaline phosphatase or ostase. The measurement of serum ostase has several advantages over the measurements of other bone parameter. Because of its relatively long half-life, in-vivo (1 to 3days), it is relatively unaffected by diurnal variation.

AIM

To find the correlation of serum ostase level in hyper and hypothyroid cases and also to study the validity of routine estimation of serum ostase in hyper and hypothyroid cases so as to monitor the base level bone health on presentation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serum ostase level was studied in 74 patients with disorder of thyroid function. Serum ostase level, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), FT3, FT4 levels were estimated by chemiluminescent technique. The instrument used was Beckman- coulter Access 2. A total of 39 patients were hypothyroid, 31 were hyperthyroid and 4 patients had subclinical hyperthyroidism.

RESULTS

The serum ostase level was found to be elevated above 40 μg/L in 26 of the cases and above 16 μg/L but below 40μg/L in 5 cases of hyperthyroidism along with decrease in Bone Mineral Density (BMD). Serum ostase level was found to be directly proportional to the serum FT3 level (Normal range of serum ostase is 8-16 μg/L).

CONCLUSION

From this study, an inference can be drawn that a routine estimation of serum ostase level in hyperthyroid cases will help in proper monitoring of decrease bone turnover as indicated by increase serum ostase level. Besides, the estimation of serum ostase level in hyperthyroid cases it is found to be valid in this study, which can turn to be an important guiding parameter to the treating physician to formulate necessary protocols and guidelines for prophylaxis, treatment and to monitor the response to therapy in cases of reduced bone turnover related to hyperthyroid state.

Bronchoesophageal Fistula Repair with Intercostal Muscle Flap Followed by Occlusion of Residual Diverticula with N-butyl Cyanoacrylate (NBCA) Glue: A Case Report

The incidence of bronchoesophageal fistula in presence of benign pathology of tracheal tree or oesophagus is rare. It is encountered in thoracic diseases like tuberculosis, syphilis or histoplasmosis due to erosion by infected lymph node or abscess to adjoining structures. The source of primary pathology has to be eliminated followed by appropriate steps of fistula tract closure is essential for optimal result. We report a 25-year-old patient with left sided bronchoesophageal fistula. He had a past history of pulmonary tuberculosis. A left lower lobectomy followed by repair of oesophageal fistula opening was performed by primary closure and reinforcement with an intercostal muscle flap based on posterior intercostal artery. Postoperative oesophagogram showed short diverticula, which was occluded with n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue under radiological guidance. Feeding was started one week after application of glue without further complication. Reports on intercostals muscle flap repair and intervention of residual oesophageal diverticula with n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue under radiological guidance are scanty.

Transnasal tracheobronchial stenting for malignant airway narrowing under local anesthesia: Our experience of treating three cases using this technique

PURPOSE

To study the technical feasibility of tracheobronchial stenting via transnasal route under bronchoscopy and fluoroscopic guidance in severe malignant airway strictures using self-expandable nitinol stents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We describe three patients with malignant airway strictures, treated entirely via transnasal route under local anesthesia using bronchoscopic and fluoroscopic guidance. Nasal route allowed convenient access to the airway for the bronchoscope across the stricture and a guidewire was introduced through its working channel. The 18F tracheal stent and the 6F bronchial stent assembly could be easily introduced and deployed under bronchoscopic (reintroduced through the other nostril) and fluoroscopic guidance.

RESULTS

We achieved technical success in all the three patients with immediate relief of dyspnea.

CONCLUSION

Transnasal airway stenting with self-expandable nitinol stent using bronchoscopic and fluoroscopic guidance under local anesthesia is a safe and effective method with minimal patient discomfort.

Concomitant infestation of Toxocara cati and Ancylostoma tubaeforme in a mongrel cat

A 3½ years old mongrel female cat was brought with the history of inappetence, seizure and lateral recumbency since 4 days and motion sickness since 2 days. Faecal examination confirmed Toxocara cati and Ancylostoma tubaeforme along with un-hatched live Toxocara cati larvae. Treatment has been initiated with Pyrantel pamoate and along with supportive therapy.

Assessment of human abuse potential of dasotraline compared to methylphenidate and placebo in recreational stimulant users

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the abuse potential of dasotraline, a novel dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor with slow absorption (tmax, 10-12h) and elimination (t1/2=47-77 h) that is in development for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

METHODS

Recreational stimulant users (N=48) who had specific experience with cocaine, and who were able to distinguish methylphenidate (60 mg) versus placebo in a qualification session, were randomized, in a 6-period, double-blind, crossover design, to receive single doses of dasotraline 8 mg, 16 mg, and 36 mg, methylphenidate (MPH) 40 mg and 80 mg, and placebo. The primary endpoint was the Drug Liking Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score at the time of peak effect (Emax).

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the 3 doses of dasotraline and placebo on the drug liking VAS at Emax, and on most secondary endpoints. Both doses of MPH had significantly higher VAS-drug liking scores at Emax relative to both placebo (P<0.001 for all comparisons) and dasotraline 8 mg (P<0.001), 16 mg (P<0.001) and 36 mg (P<0.01). The increase in heart rate for MPH and dasotraline 36 mg showed a time-course that closely matched subject-rated measures such as Any Effects VAS.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, dasotraline was found to have low potential for abuse, which may be, in part, related to its established pharmacokinetics (PK) profile, which is characterized by slow absorption and gradual elimination.

Theileriasis in crossbred cows and its therapeutic management: first report from Lushai hill district of Mizoram

To know the prevalence of theileriosis infection, haemato-biochemical alteration and efficacy of Oxytetracycline in combination with Diaminazene aceturate injection against theileriosis in Lushai hill district of Mizoram; fifty five cross bred cattle were screened during July, 2013 to November, 2013. The prevalence of tropical theileriosis was 9.09 % based on blood smear examination. Clinical features of the disease were manifested by high rise of body temperature 104.8 ± 1.2 °F, lymphadenopathy, inability to walk, anorexia, listlessness, moderate anaemia, nasal discharge, edema of eye and corneal opacity. There were marked decline (P < 0.01) in the haemoglobin 5.28 ± 1.81 gm/dl, total erythrocytic count 2.14 ± 0.7 × 10(6)/ul, packed cell volume 18.10 ± 0.8 % and total leukocyte count 6.95 ± 1.05 × 10(3)/ul, respectively. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate was significantly increased (P < 0.01) up to 104.5 ± 12.4 mm/1st hour. The percentage of neutrophils increased 62.75 ± 2.77 and lymphocytes decreased drastically 28.69 ± 1.45 as compared with un-infected cross bred cattle. Clinically infected cattle with Theileria annulata had significantly low levels of total proteins and albumin, (P < 0.05) but AST, total, direct and indirect bilirubin, BUN, creatinine levels and Ck-MB activity were significantly high (P < 0.05). Oxytetracycline in combination with Diaminazene aceturate was found effective against T. annulata and could control fever and temperature returns to normalcy by 7th day post treatment along with some haemato-biochemical profiles. In brief, the study revealed that tropical theileriosis was prevalent in Lushai hill district of Mizoram especially among cross breed cattle and had effect on hepatic, renal and cardiac function which can be effectively controlled by Oxytetracycline and Diaminazene aceturate injection.

Ultrasonographic changes in dogs naturally infected with tick borne intracellular diseases

Tick-borne infectious diseases constitute an emerging problem in Veterinary Medicine. The study was undertaken to find out the ultrasonographic changes of liver and spleen in 101 positive cases of tick borne intracellular haemoparasitic diseases in dogs. Abdominal survey of ultrasonography revealed hypo echogenicity of liver, gall bladder distension, splenomegaly, hepato-splenomegaly and ascites in various tick born intracellular diseases viz. ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, hepatozoonosis and in mixed infection. Correlating these USG finding with other laboratory examination will be very much useful to spot the diseases condition and organ involvement in tick born intracellular diseases of dog.

Chromatin in the nuclear landscape

Chromatin affects many, if not all aspects, of nuclear organization and function. For this reason, we have focused our attention on elucidating some of the basic mechanisms regulating the formation and maintenance of chromatin, specifically concerning Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) and PR-Set7. PRC2 is responsible for catalyzing trimethylation of lysine 27 of histone H3 and thus has a critical role in the formation of facultative heterochromatin. PR-Set7 is responsible for catalyzing monomethylation of lysine 20 of histone H4 and is required for proper cell cycle progression and DNA damage response. We have also expanded our work to establish novel techniques and approaches to determine how chromatin is spatially regulated within the nuclear landscape.

Firearm suicide decedents in the Republic of Ireland, 1980-2005

OBJECTIVES

To compare the sociodemographic characteristics of firearms suicide decedents and other suicide decedents in the Republic of Ireland between 1980 and 2005.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study of sociodemographic characteristics of those who committed suicide with a firearm and those who committed suicide by an alternative method.

METHODS

Suicide data from 1980 to 2005 inclusive, provided by the Central Statistics Office of Ireland, were analysed. For the purpose of this paper, suicide method was collapsed into two groups: firearm-assisted suicide (FAS) and non-firearm-assisted suicide (n-FAS). Differences in gender, marital status (married vs not married), area of residence (urban vs rural), agri-employment (agri-employed vs not agri-employed) and age were examined between the two groups. A logistic regression is presented using suicide method (FAS vs n-FAS) as the criterion variable and individual factors as predictors.

RESULTS

In total, 9674 suicides were recorded from 1 January 1980 to 31 December 2005. Seven hundred and ninety-three of these were FAS and 8881 were n-FAS. For both suicide profiles, the deceased were predominantly male, living in a rural setting and not married. However, this profile was more salient in the FAS group. In comparison with the n-FAS group, a greater proportion of the FAS decedents were male [chi(2)(1)=152.5, P< or =0.0001, odds ratio (OR)=4.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.4-6.1], from a rural setting [chi(2)(1)=153.5, P< or =0.0001, OR=4.4, 95%CI 3.2-5.6) and agri-employed [chi(2)(1)=21.3, P< or =0.0001, OR=1.5, 95%CI 1.3-1.8). FAS decedents were significantly younger than n-FAS victims, although the size of this effect was small (z=-8.4, P<0.0005, r=-0.1). There was no difference in marital status between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk factors for FAS should inform policy-making in this area, with particular attention paid to protecting young males resident in rural settings. Consideration should be given to targeting agri-employed individuals as a specific at-risk group.

Dietary high protein and vitamin C mitigates endosulfan toxicity in the spotted murrel, Channa punctatus (Bloch, 1793)

The amelioration effect of dietary high protein and vitamin C against stress was evaluated in spotted murrel, Channa punctatus, exposed to endosulfan. Two hundred and forty fish (average weight: 27.01 g/fish), distributed equally into 4 different groups (control, T(1), T(2), and T(3)), each with 6 replicates were fed with control (40% crude protein, CP and 0.1% vitamin C), T(1) (40% CP and 0.1% vitamin C), T(2) (50% CP and 0.1% vitamin C), and T(3) (50% CP and 0.2% vitamin C) diets for 90 days. Groups fed T(1), T(2), and T(3) diets were exposed to sublethal endosulfan concentration, whereas the control was maintained without endosulfan exposure. Results indicated significant reduction in the growth performance, survival, and activities of lactate dehydrogenase (liver and muscle), malate dehydrogenase (liver and muscle), enzymes of protein metabolism (aspartate amino transferase in liver and alanine amino transferase in liver and muscle), acetyl choline esterase (brain), alkaline phosphatase activity (liver), and ATPase (gill) enzymes of group fed control diet and exposed to endosulfan. However, endosulfan exposed fish fed high CP and vitamin C diet exhibited significant (P<0.05) improvement in their growth performance and metabolic enzyme activities. Further, high CP and vitamin C diet reduced endosulfan accumulation in the muscle. Overall results indicate that vitamin C (0.2%) supplementation in high CP (50%) diet improves growth, metabolism, and reduce endosulfan bioaccumulation in C. punctatus.