Effect of prenatal haloperidol exposure on behavioral alterations in rats

Pregnant Charles-Foster rats were exposed to haloperidol (HAL), a neuroleptic drug that binds to and blocks dopamine (DA) receptor subtypes at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg body weight (intraperitoneally) from Gestation Day (GD) 12 to 20. The animals from both treated as well as vehicle control groups were allowed to deliver on GD 21. The offspring culled at birth on the basis of sex and weight were subjected to behavioral tests at the age of 8 weeks. The HAL-treated rat offspring showed a significant increase in anxiogenic behavior on the open field, elevated plus-maze and elevated zero-maze tests when compared with the vehicle-treated (control) rat offspring of the same age group. These findings suggest that prenatal exposure to HAL during a critical period of brain development leaves a lasting imprint on the brain, resulting in abnormal anxiety states, possibly through dopaminergic neurotransmission mechanisms.

Low level lead exposure in vitro stimulates the proliferation and expansion of alloantigen-reactive CD4(high) T cells

T cells are believed to be critical functional targets of Pb immunotoxicity. In this study, low concentrations of lead (i.e., as low as 0.1 microM approximately 2 microg/dl) were found to markedly enhance the allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction-an assay of CD4(+) T cell responsiveness. Cell cycle analysis of cells recovered from allogeneic mixed lymphocyte cultures revealed that Pb stimulated a substantial increase in the proportion of cycling alloreactive CD4(+) T cells. The enhanced alloproliferative response was characterized by an increased population of lymphoblasts expressing heightened cell surface expression of CD4 (i.e., CD4(high) cells). Successive rounds of cell division were monitored using the cell division dye 5- (and 6)-carboxyfluorecein diacetate succinimyl ester and it was determined that the CD4(high) subpopulation comprised the expanding alloreactive T cells, which ultimately took on the phenotype of memory/effector T cells (i.e., CD44(high), CD45RB(low), CD69(high), and CD162(high)). Enhancement of T cell proliferation by lead was selective for responsiveness to alloantigen, as lead had no effect on T cell proliferation induced by mitogens or superantigen, processes that unlike alloreactivity are not dependent on antigen presentation. Collectively, these data suggest that Pb enhances alloantigen-specific T cell proliferation through an indirect mechanism involving altered antigen processing/presentation, resulting in marked clonal expansion or repertoire expansion of alloreactive T cell clones. Consistent with this suggestion was the finding that a single exposure to Pb during alloantigen priming elicited a population of CD4(+) T cells that was hyperresponsive to further alloantigen stimulation and neither lead dependent nor lead responsive.

Stochastic resonances in an optical two-order parameter vectorial system

We show experimentally that optical two-dimensional systems such as vectorial lasers can exhibit novel stochastic resonances. All optical noise and modulation of this system allows the isolation of so-called inhibitional and rotational stochastic resonances. In particular, incoherent rotational tunneling is shown to be sensitive enough to be also induced by Faraday noise and by quantum noise, i.e., external spontaneous emission.

RAPD and ISSR fingerprints as useful genetic markers for analysis of genetic diversity, varietal identification, and phylogenetic relationships in peanut (Arachis hypogaea) cultivars and wild species

Twenty-one random and 29 SSR primers were used to assess genetic variation and interrelationships among subspecies and botanical varieties of cultivated peanut, Arachis hypogaea (2n = 4x = 40), and phylogenetic relationships among cultivated peanut and wild species of the genus Arachis. In contrast with the previous generalization that peanut accessions lack genetic variation, both random and SSR primers revealed 42.7 and 54.4% polymorphism, respectively, among 220 and 124 genetic loci amplified from 13 accessions. Moreover, the dendrograms based on RAPD, ISSR, and RAPD + ISSR data precisely organized the five botanical varieties of the two subspecies into five clusters. One SSR primer was identified that could distinguish all the accessions analysed within a variety. Although the polymorphic index content varied from 0.1 to 0.5 for both ISSR and RAPD markers, primer index values were substantially higher for RAPD primers (0.35–4.65) than for SSR primers (0.35–1.73). It was possible to identify accessions, particularly those of divergent origins, by RAPD and (or) ISSR fingerprints. Based on these results, marker-based genetic improvement in A. hypogaea appears possible. None of the 486 RAPD and 330 ISSR amplification products were found to be commonly shared among 13 species of section Arachis and one species each of sections Heteranthae, Rhizomatosae, and Procumbentes. Dendrograms constructed from RAPD, ISSR, and RAPD + ISSR data showed overall similar topologies. They could be resolved into four groups corresponding to the species grouped in four taxonomic sections. The present results strongly support the view that Arachis monticola (2n = 4x = 40) and A. hypogaea are very closely related, and indicate that A. villosa and A. ipaensis are the diploid wild progenitors of these tetraploid species.Key words: Arachis hypogaea, genetic markers, varietal identification, DNA polymorphism, Arachis species.

RAPD and ISSR fingerprints as useful genetic markers for analysis of genetic diversity, varietal identification, and phylogenetic relationships in peanut (Arachis hypogaea) cultivars and wild species

Abstract: Twenty-one random and 29 SSR primers were used to assess genetic variation and interrelationships among subspecies and botanical varieties of cultivated peanut, Arachis hypogaea (2n = 4x = 40), and phylogenetic relationships among cultivated peanut and wild species of the genus Arachis. In contrast with the previous generalization that peanut accessions lack genetic variation, both random and SSR primers revealed 42.7 and 54.4% polymorphism, respectively, among 220 and 124 genetic loci amplified from 13 accessions. Moreover, the dendrograms based on RAPD, ISSR, and RAPD + ISSR data precisely organized the five botanical varieties of the two subspecies into five clusters. One SSR primer was identified that could distinguish all the accessions analysed within a variety. Although the polymorphic index content varied from 0.1 to 0.5 for both ISSR and RAPD markers, primer index values were substantially higher for RAPD primers (0.35-4.65) than for SSR primers (0.35-1.73). It was possible to identify accessions, particularly those of divergent origins, by RAPD and (or) ISSR fingerprints. Based on these results, marker-based genetic improvement in A. hypogaea appears possible. None of the 486 RAPD and 330 ISSR amplification products were found to be commonly shared among 13 species of section Arachis and one species each of sections Heteranthae, Rhizomatosae, and Procumbentes. Dendrograms constructed from RAPD, ISSR, and RAPD + ISSR data showed overall similar topologies. They could be resolved into four groups corresponding to the species grouped in four taxonomic sections. The present results strongly support the view that Arachis monticola (2n = 4x = 40) and A. hypogaea are very closely related, and indicate that A. villosa and A. ipaensis are the diploid wild progenitors of these tetraploid species.

Identification of novel breast tumor-specific mutation(s) in the q11.2 region of chromosome 17 by RAPD/AP-PCR fingerprinting

Analysis of genetic instability in breast cancer tissues compared to uninvolved breast tissues from the same individuals by RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA)/AP-PCR (arbitrarily primed PCR) fingerprinting using 30 arbitrary primers revealed 190 amplified DNA fragments. Presumably, each of these represents a gene locus in a different region of the genome of breast cancer tissues. Among these amplified DNA fragments, 65 (34.2%) exhibited presence and absence or reductions and enhancements in the intensity in breast cancer tissues compared to uninvolved breast tissues from the same individuals, and 11 amplified DNA fragments (5.7%) represented polymorphisms in the uninvolved human breast tissues. Reductions and enhancements in the intensity of some of the amplified fragments were observed indicating allelic gains or losses in the breast tumor genome compared to the matched uninvolved tissue genome. The presence or absence of some of the amplified DNA fragments were observed in this study indicating homozygous deletions or insertions in the breast tumor DNA compared to the matched uninvolved tissue DNA. Notably, an insertion of a 1270 bp amplified fragment was observed in 81% (17 of 21) of the tumor samples using the primer, OPC04. This amplified fragment resolved into two, 1200 and 1300 bp, single-stranded amplified fragments on the denaturing sequencing gel. This separation into single-stranded fragments suggests that the amplified fragment contains a conformation that is semistable. The 1270 bp amplified fragment localizes to the q11.2 region of chromosome 17. Sequence analysis of this fragment showed a significant DNA base sequence similarity (93%) with one of the breast tumor-specific human EST. The similarity with EST sequences and RT-PCR analysis showed that a part of this amplified fragment is from the coding region of the genome. Any one of the events observed in this study could play an important role in the development of breast cancer or could occur during the clonal expansion of the genetically unstable breast cells.

Regulation of the growth of mouse Leydig cells by the inactive stereoisomer, 17alpha-estradiol: Lack of correlation between the elevated expression of ERalpha and difference in sensitivity to estradiol isomers

We examined the effects of 17alpha-estradiol, the biologically inactive stereoisomer of 17beta-estradiol, on cell growth and cell cycle kinetics using the normalized mouse TM3 Leydig cells. A significant biphasic stimulatory growth response was observed by 17alpha-estradiol exposure with peaks at 1 pg/ml (157.13%) and 100 ng/ml (120.04%) (p<0.05). The growth stimulatory effects of 17alpha-estradiol were inhibited by tamoxifen. A significant decrease in cell cycle time of Leydig cells exposed to 17alpha-estradiol was observed in treated cells (p<0.05). RT-PCR analysis indicated that exposure to Leydig cells to 1 pg/ml and 100 ng/ml 17alpha-estradiol resulted in a 10- and 5-fold increases in the expression of ERalpha, respectively. Similar effects were observed with exposure to equivalent concentrations of 17beta-estradiol. Difference in sensitivity to stereoisomers of estradiol to growth response of Leydig cells did not correlate with the elevated expression of ERalpha. We conclude that the TM3 Leydig cells are sensitive to the non-typical estrogen, 17alpha-estradiol, presumably through the activation of ER-independent signaling transduction pathways.

A preliminary report on the role of yoga asanas on oxidative stress in non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

Nineteen subjects of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) between the age group of 30-60 yrs were studied to see the effect of specific yoga asanas on fasting and postprandial blood glucose (FBG, PPG), serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1)) in addition to drug treatment and diet control. The duration of diabetes ranged from 1-10 years. Patients with renal, cardiac and proliferative retinal diseases were excluded from the study. The same patients served as their own control. Subjects were called in the morning to the cardio-respiratory laboratory and were given training by a yoga expert. Yoga asanas included Suryanamskar, Tadasan, TriKonasan, Padmasan, Pranayam, Paschimottanasan, Ardhmatsyendrasan, Pavanmukthasan, Sarpasan and Shavasan. The asanas were done every day for 40 days for 30-40 min. FBG, PPG, serum MDA and HbA(1) were estimated before and after 40 days of yoga asanas regimen. Significant reduction was seen in FBG from 220 mg/dl to 162 mg/dl, PPG from 311 mg/dl to 255 mg/dl, MDA from 6 nmol/l to 3 nmol/l and HbA(1), from 8.8% to 6.4%. Subjects felt better and were relieved of their stresses and had an improvement in their day to day performance. The decrease was statistically significant (p<0.0001 for FBG and PPG, p<0.001 for MDA and for HbA(1)).

Bilateral subcutaneous emphysema of the orbits following nose blowing

Orbital emphysema without evidence of any significant trauma is a rare occurrence. A case is reported here of bilateral subcutaneous emphysema of the orbital, in the absence of facial skeleton trauma, in a healthy adult male following nose blowing. It assumes importance because of potential complications such as loss of vision due to pressure effects and infection. Lamina papyracea is the most common site of bony defect and point of air entry into the orbit. Spontaneous resolution in around two weeks is usual.

Effect of single prenatal haloperidol exposure on hippocampus and striatum of developing rat brain

Poor development and differentiation of three layered cytoarchitectural pattern of brain, degenerating pyramidal cells with pyknotic nuclei and substantial loss of both large and small pyramidal cells of the hippocampal CA1 region were observed in fetuses of pregnant Charles-Foster rats exposed to single high dose of haloperidol (50 mg/kg body weight) on day 12 of gestation. In treated striatum, reduction in size, complete degeneration of multipolar cells with fragmented nuclei and increased extracellular spaces were observed. Unsacrificed group of day 12 haloperidol treated rat offsprings at 9 weeks of age exhibited cognitive behavioural dysfunctions in passive avoidance (behaviour) test. These findings indicate that a single (high dose) prenatal haloperidol exposure during critical period of CNS development not only induces micromorphological aberrations in foetal hippocampus and striatum but also lasting cognitive impairment in adult rat offsprings.

Nocturnal problems in postpolio syndrome: sleep apnea symptoms and nocturia

Nocturia, generally accepted as an inevitable consequence of aging, is also a symptom of a potentially lethal condition--obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The descriptive study reported in this article examined nocturia and sleep-related breathing problems in persons with postpolio syndrome (PPS) and tested the Sleep Disordered Breathing--Nocturia Model. This model describes the cascade of events that results in polyuria in persons with sleep-related breathing disorders. Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. A 34-item questionnaire was published in the newsletter of a national polio support group, and the 584 respondents constituted a convenience sample. The results showed statistically significant associations between OSA symptoms, nocturia, poor sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, lower urinary tract symptoms, naps, and decreased self-rated health. Study limitations were the use of a convenience sample and possible self-selection of persons with more severe sleep and bladder problems. The results support the model and document how nocturia and sleep disturbances negatively impact persons with PPS.

The biphasic stimulation of proliferation of Leydig cells by estrogen exposure

In this study, we have examined the influence of diethylstilbestrol (DES) and 17 beta-estradiol on the proliferation of TM3 Leydig cells, a normalized mouse cell line. Cells were treated with seven different concentrations (1 pg-1 microg/ml) of DES or 17 beta-estradiol, and cell growth was measured at 24-, 48-, and 72-h periods. DES treatment resulted in a significant (p<0.05) stimulation of cell proliferation. We observed two independent peaks of cell proliferation, one at 1 pg/ml DES (186.87%) and the other at 100 ng/ml DES (248.23%). Cytotoxicity was noted at all time periods with 1 microg/ml DES treatment. 17 beta-estradiol treatment resulted in a significant stimulation of cell proliferation (p<0.05) with a trend similar in response to that of DES treatment, as peak proliferation was noted with 1 pg/ml 17 beta-estradiol (125.27%) and 10 ng/ml 17 beta-estradiol (138.31%). Based on these data, it appears that DES is more mitogenic in these Leydig cells compared to 17 beta-estradiol. Furthermore, for the first time, we detected that both DES and 17 beta-estradiol were able to stimulate proliferation of Leydig cells in a biphasic fashion. Cell cycle kinetic analysis revealed that cell entry into the S-phase was higher in the DES treated cells compared to the controls, and doubling times of DES exposed cells were significantly reduced (p<0.05). Co-administration of tamoxifen at a concentration 1000-fold higher than either DES or 17 beta-estradiol resulted in complete inhibition of cell proliferation. Analysis of expression of ER alpha and ER beta by RT-PCR in untreated Leydig cells, as well as Leydig cells exposed to 1 pg/ml DES, revealed that the transcripts of ER alpha and ER beta were not detectable even after 40 cycles of amplification. A 100-ng/ml dose of DES induced ER alpha expression by 20-fold. These data suggest that estrogen exposure-mediated increases in cell proliferation, coupled with the decrease in cell cycle time, may allow greater accumulation of DNA damage to occur in the testicular target cells compared to untreated cells under normal cell cycle control. In addition, an unidentified estrogen receptor may be responsible for the mitogenic activity of estrogens at low levels.

New methods of nitrate removal from water

Nitrate contamination in groundwater resources originates mainly from the excessive use of fertilisers and uncontrolled land discharges of treated wastewater. This can cause potential health hazards to infants and pregnant women, thus limiting the direct use of the groundwater resources for the human consumption in several parts of the world, including India. The conventional processes used to eliminate nitrate from water are ion exchange, reverse osmosis and electro-dialysis. The utility of these processes has been limited due to their expensive operation and subsequent disposal problem of the generated nitrate waste brine. This paper presents a comprehensive account of the methods/techniques used for the removal of nitrate ion from water during the last 10 years with special reference to the biological denitrification and fate of the metals in decontamination processes.

Enriching vermicompost by nitrogen fixing and phosphate solubilizing bacteria

The effect of inoculation of vermicompost with nitrogen-fixing Azotobacter chroococcum strains, Azospirillum lipoferum and the phosphate solubilizing Pseudomonas striata on N and P contents of the vermicompost was assessed. Inoculation of N2 fixing bacteria into vermicompost increased contents of N and P. Enriching vermicompost with rock phosphate improved significantly the available P when inoculated with P. striata. During the incubation period, the inoculated bacterial strains proliferated rapidly, fixed N and solubilized added and native phosphate.

Sleep apnea symptoms, nocturia, and diabetes in African-American community dwelling older adults

The primary aim of this exploratory study was to examine the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms, nocturia and diabetes in African-American community-dwelling older adults. A pencil and paper survey was used to collect symptoms of OSA, nocturia, excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUT), and self-rated health. The convenience sample of community dwelling African-Americans (n = 87) included a majority of women (61%) and obese persons (60% with BMI > 30). The mean age was 64 years (range 50-91), and 40% were self reported Type 2 diabetics. Diabetics had significantly more OSA symptoms, more nocturia, and decreased self-rated health. Results of a stepwise logistic regression showed that persons with diabetes and those who reported EDS experienced significant three to four-fold risks for OSA. Similarly, diabetics, women, persons with LUT symptoms and those reporting EDS, had significant three to six-fold risks for nocturia > or = 2/night.

Sensitivity of myelomonocytic leukemia cells to arsenite-induced cell cycle disruption, apoptosis, and enhanced differentiation is dependent on the inter-relationship between arsenic concentration, duration of treatment, and cell cycle phase

Arsenite treatment has been found to induce clinical remission in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia. Although the potential therapeutic value of arsenite may lie in triggering apoptosis, it has not been established that cytotoxicity is the sole mechanism of action. We have used a myelomonocytic leukemia cell line (U937) to characterize the concentration-dependent effects of arsenite on cell growth, viability, apoptosis, and differentiation. Arsenite has multiple effects on U937 cells. Low concentrations of arsenite (i.e., < or = 1 microM) potentiate vitamin-D(3)-induced differentiation. Two markers of monocyte differentiation, Mac-1 expression and nitroblue tetrazolium reduction, are increased in arsenite-exposed, D(3)-costimulated cells. Concentrations of arsenite >10 microM rapidly induce the death of cells irrespective of cell cycle phase. Intermediate concentrations of arsenite (i.e., 5 to 10 microM) are cytostatic initially. Cell cycle analysis using elutriated, synchronous cell populations revealed that intermediate concentrations of arsenite delay both G(1) and G(2) transit. G(2) cells appear to be most sensitive to arsenite, in that transit through G(2)/M is more delayed than transit through G(1), and apoptosis is induced in these cells as they emerge from an aberrant G(2)/M. Arsenite-induced apoptosis was caspase-3 dependent. Arsenite-mediated cytotoxicity was reduced in the presence of the broad caspase inhibitor Z-Val-Ala-DL-Asp-fluoromethylketone; however, caspase inhibition did not reverse arsenite-induced cytostasis. Thus, arsenite has multiple effects on U937 cells that are dependent on concentration and cell cycle phase. Specifically, cell cycle transit and differentiation are more sensitive to arsenite than is the induction of apoptosis.

Evidence for new nuclear and mitochondrial genome organizations among high-frequency somatic embryogenesis-derived plants of allotetraploid Coffea arabica L. (Rubiaceae)

 The most important commercial species of coffee, Coffea arabica, which produces 73% of the world's coffee crop and almost all of the coffee in Latin America, is the only tetraploid (allotetraploid, 2n=4x=44) species known in the genus. High-frequency somatic embryogenesis, plant regeneration and plant recovery were achieved from leaf explants of a mature, elite plant of C. arabica cv. Cauvery (S-4347) using a two-step culture method. To assess the genetic integrity of the nuclear, mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes among the hardened regenerants, we employed multiple DNA markers (RFLP, RAPD, ISSR) for sampling various regions of the genome. Although the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes of the mother plant and five ramets derived from the mother ortet were similar in organization, this was not so in the somatic embryo-derived plants where both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes changed in different, characteristic ways and produced novel genome organizations. A total of 480 genetic loci, based on the data obtained from a total of 16 nuclear, mitochondrial and chloroplast gene probes, in combination with nine restriction enzyme digests, 38 RAPD and 17 SSR primers, were scored in 27 somatic embryo-derived plants and the single control. Among these, 44 loci were observed to be polymorphic. A relatively low level of polymorphism (4.36%) was found in the nuclear genome, while polymorphism in the mitochondrial genome (41%) was much higher. No polymorphism was detected in the chloroplast genome. The polymorphism in the mitochondrial genome was found in only 4 plants. Such selective polymorphism was not true for the nuclear genome. Thus, this in-depth and comprehensive study demonstrates, for the first time, the presence of subtle genetic variability and novel genome organizations in the commercially well-established somatic embryogenesis-derived plants of this important coffee species.

Teratogenic effects of dilantin on thoraco-abdominal organs of developing chick embryos

Congenital anomalies on some viscera like heart, liver and kidney have been investigated in chick embryos after a single injection of dilantin (3 mg/egg), a known antiepileptic drug, on 4th day of incubation. On 19th day of incubation, chick embryos were collected to observe the gross malformations and histological changes in heart, liver and kidney. On gross examination, visceroptosis (29%), thin anterior abdominal wall (28%), ectopia cordis (10%) and dextrocardia (1%) were observed. Histological examination of the kidney revealed glomerular degeneration in kidney while in liver, dilated central veins with degenerated hepatocytes were present. Longitudinal section of the heart showed thicker musculature specially of ventricles with a narrower lumen in comparison to that of the control. The results indicate teratogenicity of dilantin in developing chick embryos.

Detection of potentially myocardial infarction susceptible individuals in indian population: a mathematical model based on copper and zinc status

Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) concentrations in hair and urine of patients diagnosed and hospitalized for myocardial infarction (MI patients) and in their descendants (MI descendants) were estimated and compared with their age-matched healthy volunteers with no family history of MI (control group and control descendants). The data revealed approximately twofold higher Zn and twofold lower Cu in the urine of the patients; Zn was lower and Cu was higher in the urine of MI descendants than those of the patients (p < 0.001), but Zn in hair and urine was higher and Cu in hair was lower in MI descendants compared with their control counterparts (p < 0.001). The data suggested that there was a consistent rise in Zn and fall in Cu reserves in the genetically predisposed subjects (MI descendants) prior to the manifestation of clinical symptoms. Based on this, the data were subjected to logistic regression and a model was obtained to predict the susceptibility to MI (LR-MI), having impact factors values as follows: constant (C), -3.342; impact factor of body mass index, -0.776; impact factor of hair Zn, -2.449; impact factor of urine Zn, +3.441; impact factor of hair Cu, -15.077; impact factor of urine Cu, -24.153. For the equation Y = e(x)/(1 + e(x)), the value of x was obtained as follows: -3.342 + [BMI (kg/m2) (-0.776)] + [Hair Zn (micromol/g) (-2.449)] + [Urine Zn (micromol/L) (3.441)] + [Hair Cu (micromol/g) (-15.077)] + [Urine Cu (micromol/L) (-24.153)]. On substituting the values of BMI, hair Zn, urine Zn, hair Cu, and urine Cu in x, the response variable Y as zero for healthy controls and 0.99 or 99.9% susceptibility in MI patients were obtained. In between these two extremes, the response variable ranged between 0 and 0.99 or 99.9% susceptibility to MI in their descendants. It is envisaged that the MI patients have an operational component of a genetic disorder of ionic imbalance at a young age that can be exploited in making a prediction of susceptibility to heart stroke in individuals much before its onset and diagnosis in asymptomatic patients, particularly in genetic and epidemiological studies of MI.

QTL: their place in engineering tolerance of rice to salinity

Secondary salinization and its relationship to irrigation are strong incentives to improve the tolerance of crops to salinity and to drought. Achieving this through the pyramiding of physiological traits (phenotypic selection without knowledge of genotype) is feasible. However, wide application of this approach is limited by the practicalities of assessing not only the parents, but also large numbers of individuals and families in segregating generations. Genotypic information is required in the form of markers for any quantitative trait loci involved (marker-assisted selection) or of direct knowledge of the genes. In the absence of adequate candidate genes for salt tolerance, a quantitative trait locus/marker-assisted selection approach has been used here. Putative markers for ion transport and selectivity, identified from analysis of amplified fragment length polymorphism, had been discovered within a custom-made mapping population of rice. Here it is reported that none of these markers showed any association with similar traits in a closely related population of recombinant inbred lines or in selections of a cultivar. Whilst markers will be of value in using élite lines from the mapping population in backcrossing, this has to be considered alongside the effort required to develop and map any given population. This result cautions against any expectation of a general applicability of markers for physiological traits. It is concluded that direct knowledge of the genes involved is needed. This cannot be achieved at present by positional cloning. The elucidation of candidate genes is required. Here the problem lies not in the analysis of gene expression but in devising protocols in which only those genes of interest are differentially affected by the experimental treatments.

Lead intoxication impairs the generation of a delayed type hypersensitivity response

The effect of oral administration of lead, as Pb-acetate, via the drinking water on the murine delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) response was investigated. The DTH response of BALB/c mice sensitized intravenously with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was found to be suppressed markedly in lead-intoxicated mice. Suppression of the DTH correlated with increasing blood Pb concentration. Suppression of the DTH response by Pb intoxication depended on the route of administration of the sensitizing antigen, as Pb intoxication did not impair the DTH reaction when mice were sensitized to SRBC via intraperitoneal injection. Since DTH reactions are regulated in large part by Th1 cells, these data establish an in vivo model system based on a rational route of Pb exposure in which to study further the modulation of Th1-mediated immune effector function by Pb.

Effect of phenobarbitone administration to pregnant rats on anxiety in offsprings

Adults Charles-Foster rats were prenatally treated to phenobarbitone (10 mg/kg, i.p.) from day 13 to 21 of gestation, this being the critical period of neural development. Pregnant control rats were similarly treated with equal volume of vehicle. Adult rat offsprings at 8-9 weeks of age were subjected to open-field exploratory behaviour, elevated plus-maze and elevated zero-maze tests. The rat offsprings displayed significantly increased ambulation and rearings in an open-field arena when compared to control offsprings whereas self-grooming and faecal droppings remain unchanged. On elevated plus-maze test these prenatally treated rat offsprings spent significantly less time on open arms and more time and more number of entries in enclosed arms as compared to controls. Prenatally exposed rats also showed significant less time on open arms, less number of head dips and stretched attend postures on elevated zero-maze test indicating increased anxiogenic behavioural pattern in these animals. The results suggest that prenatal exposure to phenobarbitone leaves a lasting effect on the anxiety state of the offsprings.

Indigenous disseminated Penicillium marneffei infection in the state of Manipur, India: report of four autochthonous cases

We describe four cases of disseminated infection caused by endemic Penicillium marneffei in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients from the Manipur state of India. The most common clinical features observed were fever, anorexia, weight loss, hepatosplenomegaly, and, more importantly, skin lesions resembling molluscum contagiosum. The diagnosis in each of the four cases was achieved by direct examination of smears, observance of intracellular yeast-like cells multiplying by fission in biopsied tissue from skin lesions, and isolation of the dimorphic P. marneffei in pure culture in each case. In one case, fluorescent antibody studies allowed specific diagnosis. This report documents a new area in which P. marneffei is endemic, located in eastern India, and describes the first occurrence in India of P. marneffei in HIV-infected patients as well as the extension of the areas of P. marneffei endemicity westward to the northeastern state of Manipur.