The Effect of Superficial Venous Incompetence Treatment on Combined Segmental Deep Venous Reflux

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the role of treatment of superficial venous reflux (SVR) in patients with combined deep segmental venous reflux as regards clinical symptoms as well as reflux improvement of the deep veins.

METHODS

We reviewed 80 patients, retrospectively selected on the inclusion criteria and having combined SVR and segmental deep venous reflux who underwent SVR ablation. The contralateral limb of 44 patients was used as a control group, asked to wear compression stockings for 3 months during day time with no surgical intervention. Duplex ultrasounds follow-up was performed at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Clinical severity of venous disease was graded from C1 to C6 according to the CEAP (Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology) classification. Duplex ultrasound was done in both supine and standing positions with non-weight-bearing of the examined limb. The venous reflux time, the venous flow volume and the peak venous flow velocity were registered. Removal of SVR was performed using either conventional surgery or radiofrequency ablation. The patient was required to wear compression stockings during the day time for the following weeks.

RESULTS

During the follow-up period, all patients were improved clinically as regards pain, edema, and ulcer healing. All patients included in this study had no signs of residual SVR. Corrected deep venous segment reflux was in 36 (45%). Similar data at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively after SVR removal. The popliteal vein reflux responded less than the femoral vein reflux did.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of the SVR eliminates segmental deep venous reflux in a good percentage of patients regardless of the treatment modality. Also, symptoms improvement and ulcer healing were documented, and hence, more studies are recommended to evaluate this role.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1550-1613

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Argentina, Neocamarosporium halophilum in leaf spots of Atriplex undulata. Australia, Aschersonia merianiae on scale insect (Coccoidea), Curvularia huamulaniae isolated from air, Hevansia mainiae on dead spider, Ophiocordyceps poecilometigena on Poecilometis sp. Bolivia, Lecanora menthoides on sandstone, in open semi-desert montane areas, Sticta monlueckiorum corticolous in a forest, Trichonectria epimegalosporae on apothecia of corticolous Megalospora sulphurata var. sulphurata, Trichonectria puncteliae on the thallus of Punctelia borreri. Brazil, Catenomargarita pseudocercosporicola (incl. Catenomargarita gen. nov.) hyperparasitic on Pseudocercospora fijiensis on leaves of Musa acuminata, Tulasnella restingae on protocorms and roots of Epidendrum fulgens. Bulgaria, Anthracoidea umbrosae on Carex spp. Croatia, Hymenoscyphus radicis from surface-sterilised, asymptomatic roots of Microthlaspi erraticum, Orbilia multiserpentina on wood of decorticated branches of Quercus pubescens. France, Calosporella punctatispora on dead corticated twigs of Aceropalus. French West Indies (Martinique), Eutypella lechatii on dead corticated palm stem. Germany, Arrhenia alcalinophila on loamy soil. Iceland, Cistella blauvikensis on dead grass (Poaceae). India, Fulvifomes maritimus on living Peltophorum pterocarpum, Fulvifomes natarajanii on dead wood of Prosopis juliflora, Fulvifomes subazonatus on trunk of Azadirachta indica, Macrolepiota bharadwajii on moist soil near the forest, Narcissea delicata on decaying elephant dung, Paramyrothecium indicum on living leaves of Hibiscus hispidissimus, Trichoglossum syamviswanathii on moist soil near the base of a bamboo plantation. Iran, Vacuiphoma astragalicola from stem canker of Astragalus sarcocolla. Malaysia, Neoeriomycopsis fissistigmae (incl. Neoeriomycopsidaceae fam. nov.) on leaf spots on flower Fissistigma sp. Namibia, Exophiala lichenicola lichenicolous on Acarospora cf. luederitzensis. Netherlands, Entoloma occultatum on soil, Extremus caricis on dead leaves of Carex sp., Inocybe pseudomytiliodora on loamy soil. Norway, Inocybe guldeniae on calcareous soil, Inocybe rupestroides on gravelly soil. Pakistan, Hymenagaricus brunneodiscus on soil. Philippines, Ophiocordyceps philippinensis parasitic on Asilus sp. Poland, Hawksworthiomyces ciconiae isolated from Ciconia ciconia nest, Plectosphaerella vigrensis from leaf spots on Impatiens noli-tangere, Xenoramularia epitaxicola from sooty mould community on Taxus baccata. Portugal, Inocybe dagamae on clay soil. Saudi Arabia, Diaporthe jazanensis on branches of Coffea arabica. South Africa, Alternaria moraeae on dead leaves of Moraea sp., Bonitomyces buffels-kloofinus (incl. Bonitomyces gen. nov.) on dead twigs of unknown tree, Constrictochalara koukolii on living leaves of Itea rhamnoides colonised by a Meliola sp., Cylindromonium lichenophilum on Parmelina tiliacea, Gamszarella buffelskloofina (incl. Gamszarella gen. nov.) on dead insect, Isthmosporiella africana (incl. Isthmosporiella gen. nov.) on dead twigs of unknown tree, Nothoeucasphaeria buffelskloofina (incl. Nothoeucasphaeria gen. nov.), on dead twigs of unknown tree, Nothomicrothyrium beaucarneae (incl. Nothomicrothyrium gen. nov.) on dead leaves of Beaucarnea stricta, Paramycosphaerella proteae on living leaves of Protea caffra, Querciphoma foliicola on leaf litter, Rachicladosporium conostomii on dead twigs of Conostomium natalense var. glabrum, Rhamphoriopsis synnematosa on dead twig of unknown tree, Waltergamsia mpumalanga on dead leaves of unknown tree. Spain, Amanita fulvogrisea on limestone soil, in mixed forest, Amanita herculis in open Quercus forest, Vuilleminia beltraniae on Cistus symphytifolius. Sweden, Pachyella pulchella on decaying wood on sand-silt riverbank. Thailand, Deniquelata cassiae on dead stem of Cassia fistula, Stomiopeltis thailandica on dead twigs of Magnolia champaca. Ukraine, Circinaria podoliana on natural limestone outcrops, Neonematogonum carpinicola (incl. Neonematogonum gen. nov.) on dead branches of Carpinus betulus. USA, Exophiala wilsonii water from cooling tower, Hygrophorus aesculeticola on soil in mixed forest, and Neocelosporium aereum from air in a house attic. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Costa MM, Kandemir H, et al. 2023. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1550-1613. Persoonia 51: 280-417. doi: 10.3767/persoonia.2023.51.08.

Facile assembly of flexible quaternary SnO2/SrSnO3/Fe3O4/PVDF nanocomposites with tunable optical, electrical, and magnetic properties for promising magneto-optoelectronic applications

Facile assembly, co-precipitation, and drop casting procedures have been used to construct SnO₂/SrSnO₃/Fe₃O₄/PVDF flexible nanocomposites. SnO₂/SrSnO₃/Fe₃O₄ nanocomposites (TSF NCs') have been successfully incorporated into polyvinylidene fluoride polymers (PF), according to the microstructural exploration of the systems, which was revealed by XRD, EDX, and ATR-FTIR analysis. The FESEM and cross-section areas demonstrated that the addition of TSF NCs' to PF porous material enhanced its surface characteristics and decreased its surface roughness. The optical gap was lowered from 3.90 to 3.07 eV, and it was discovered that both the refractive index and optical conductivity had improved when TSF NCs' were incorporated into PF. According to the observations, the supplement ratios have a profound influence on the dielectric properties of the nanocomposites. Moreover, the electrical parameters of TSF/PF nanocomposite are significantly modified. The TSF/PF magnetic nanocomposite has good magnetic reactivity and can be easily extracted from the aqueous solution using an external magnetic field, as demonstrated by VSM. This research has been conducted to obtain TSF/PF nanocomposites to be used in promising magno-optoelectronic applications.

Influence of Cedar Essential Oil on Physical and Biological Properties of Hemostatic, Antibacterial, and Antioxidant Polyvinyl Alcohol/Cedar Oil/Kaolin Composite Hydrogels

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a safe and biodegradable polymer. Given the unique physical and chemical properties of PVA, we physically cross-linked PVA with kaolin (K) and cedar essential oil (Ced) using the freeze-thawing approach to fabricate PVA/Ced/K sponge hydrogels as hemostatic, antibacterial, and antioxidant wound healing materials. The physicochemical characteristics of PVA/Ced/K hydrogels, including water swelling profiles and gel fractions, were surveyed. Additionally, the functional groups of hydrogels were explored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), while their microstructures were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the thermal features of the hydrogels were probed by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Evidently, alterations in cedar concentrations resulted in significant variations in size, water uptake profiles, and hydrolytic degradation of the hydrogels. The incorporation of cedar into the PVA/K endowed the hydrogels with significantly improved antibacterial competency against Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Moreover, PVA/Ced/K exhibited high scavenging capacities toward ABTS^•+ and DPPH free radicals. Beyond that, PVA/Ced/K hydrogels demonstrated hemocompatibility and fast blood clotting performance in addition to biocompatibility toward fibroblasts. These findings accentuate the prospective implementation of PVA/Ced/K composite hydrogel as a wound dressing.

Micro versus Macro Shear Bond Strength Testing of Dentin-Composite Interface Using Chisel and Wireloop Loading Techniques

Shear bond strength (SBS) testing is a commonly used method for evaluating different dental adhesive systems. Failure mode analysis provides valuable information for better interpretation of bond strength results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of specimen dimension and loading technique on shear bond strength and failure mode results. Eighty macro and micro flowable composite cylindrical specimens of 1.8 and 0.8 mm diameter, respectively, and 1.5 mm length were bonded to dentinal substrate. Four study groups were created (n = 20): Macroshear wireloop, Gp1; Microshear wireloop, Gp2; Macroshear chisel, Gp3; and Microshear chisel, Gp4. They were tested for SBS using chisel and wireloop loading devices followed by failure mode analysis using digital microscopy and SEM. Two- and one-way ANOVA were used to compare stress at failure values of different groups while the Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare between failure modes of the tested groups. Gp4 recorded the highest mean stress at failure 54.1 ± 14.1 MPa, and the highest percentage of adhesive failure in relation to the other groups. Specimen dimension and loading technique are important parameters influencing the results of shear bond strength. Micro-sized specimens and chisel loading are recommended for shear testing.

Survey on serum protein electrophoresis and recommendations for standardised reporting

INTRODUCTION

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) is a well-established laboratory technique. However, reporting of results varies considerably between laboratories. The variation in reporting can cause confusion to the clinician with a potential of adversely impacting patient care. The purpose of the survey was to find out the variation in reporting and to prepare recommendations to the Malaysian laboratories based on the survey to reduce both the variation in reporting between laboratories and the risk of misinterpretation of reports.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To determine the extent of variation in reporting of protein electrophoresis results questionnaires were distributed to the pathologists of various laboratories in Malaysia regarding the method, quantification of paraprotein concentrations and immunoglobulin assays, and information regarding current laboratory electrophoresis practices.

RESULTS

Variation was found in the following reporting practices: (a) screening protocol; (b) reporting of serum albumin; (c) numerical reporting of protein fractions and paraprotein; (d) co-migration of a paraprotein with a normal serum protein; (e) reporting of multiple paraprotein bands (f) appearance of small abnormal band and oligoclonal bands and (g) communication about of interferences.

CONCLUSION

The pathologists of the country made recommendations on the reporting of protein electrophoresis. Harmonised reporting will reduce inconsistency, variation in reporting, improve the quality of the report and most importantly improve patient care.

New and efficient NiO/chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposites as antibacterial and dye adsorptive films

The development of composite films with enhanced antibacterial and dye decolorization properties for water treatment has attracted a great attention. In this study, nickel oxide/chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposite films containing different weight percentage of NiO nanoparticles with a dual functionality, removal of toxic dye and antibacterial properties, were prepared. Methyl orange (MO) was selected as a target pollutant. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of the films against two Gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and two Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium) was studied. The prepared samples were characterized by XRD, HRTEM, FESEM, ATR-FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and dielectric measurements. The morphological examination proved that the nanocomposite film has more porous structure compared to the unmodified chitosan/PVA. The antimicrobial tests indicated that the modified chitosan/PVA films have higher activity than pure chitosan/PVA toward all the tested pathogenic bacteria. The impact of the NiO amount (0.5, 1.5, 3, and 5 wt%), contact time (0-150 min), and adsorbent dose (40, 80, and 100 mg) on the removal of MO was studied. Dye adsorption results proved that the incorporation of 5 wt% NiO led to more than 2 fold increase in the dye removal percentage in comparison with the unmodified PVA/chitosan film.

Insertion of central venous catheters in children undergoing bone marrow transplantation: is there a platelet level for a safe procedure?

Background

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a therapeutic procedure for the management of several hematological diseases and malignancies in pediatric population. Central venous catheters (CVCs) play a pivotal role during the process of BMT. The aim of this study was to compare the complications of CVCs placements in children undergoing BMT with platelet levels above and below 50,000/μL and also to detect if there is a platelet count for a safe insertion. This prospective study included all children who had placements of tunneled CVCs during BMT at our hospital between March 2017 and March 2020. Procedures were divided into two groups accordingly to preoperative platelet counts (above and below 50,000/μL). Data were compared between both groups regarding postoperative complications including bleeding or catheter-related blood stream infections (CRBSIs).

Results

Forty-six CVC insertions were performed in 40 patients. There were 20 procedures below 50,000/μL (median 27,500; range 5000–42,000) inserted with perioperative platelet transfusions, and their postoperative levels were median 59,500/μL, range 18,000–88,000. Allogeneic BMT was adopted in 39 patients (97.5%). Beta thalassemia major was the commonest indication (21/40, 52.5%), followed by acute lymphocytic leukemia in six patients (15%). There were nine postoperative complications (bleeding n = 2 and CRBSIs n = 7) encountered in all placements. Four of them occurred in insertions below 50,000/μL (two bleeding complications that managed conservatively, and two CRBSIs). Post-procedural morbidities regarding bleeding or CRBSIs did not differ significantly between both groups (p value = 0.099 and 0.695, respectively).

Conclusions

Postponement of CVC insertions in thrombocytopenic children due to the fear of potential complications seems unwarranted, as it has no significant impact on the morbidity. Placements of such catheters can be safe under cover of perioperative platelet transfusions irrespective of the preoperative platelet count.

Metatarsal Head Resection Versus a Removable Mechanical Device for Offloading of the Neuropathic Diabetic Plantar Forefoot Ulcer

Although surgical offloading seems a more permanent solution for prevention and treatment of neuropathic plantar diabetic forefoot ulcers (DFUs), the evidence for this assumption is weak and needs further studies to be established. The aim of this retrospective study is to compare the healing efficacy, associated morbidity, and recurrence rates of surgical versus removable knee-high offloading for neuropathic plantar (DFUs) healing. From January 2016 to January 2018, 70 neuropathic plantar forefoot DFUs were nonrandomly assigned to either removable knee-high cam-walker (n = 35), or metatarsal head, or accessory bone resection (n = 35). The primary endpoints were the frequency and rate of complete healing, and the rate of ulcer area reduction within 4 months. The secondary endpoints were 4 months morbidity and ulcer recurrence within 12 months. After 4 months, complete healing was significantly inferior with cam-walker compared with surgical offloading; 24 (67.6%) versus 31 patients (88.6%), respectively, P = .015. Ulcer area reduction was 2.4 cm² (66.7%) versus 2.6 cm² (83.9%), P = .001, in the mechanical versus the surgical groups, respectively. The mean healing time was 3.6 ± 2.1 versus 2.8 ± 0.6 months in the mechanical versus the surgical groups, respectively, P = .012. Morbidity and recurrence show nonsignificant differences between both groups. Ulcer recurrence was noted in 5/35 (14.3%) versus 2/35 (5.7%), in mechanical versus surgical groups, respectively, P = .23. Therefore, metatarsal head/accessory bone resection offered improved healing efficacy but similar morbidity and recurrence to the removable cam-walker.

Synthesis of promising nanocomposites from an antitumer and biologically active heterocyclic compound uploaded by clay and chitosan polymers

The innovative nanocomposites (NCs) of antibacterial and antitumor 2-amino-5-S-benzyl-1, 3, 4-thiadiazole (ABMT): binary (NC₁): ABMT-clay as well as the ternary (NC₂): ABMT-clay-chitosan have been prepared following the top-down approach method. The ABMT molecules have been efficiently uploaded on the inorganic polymer potassium montmorlinite clay polymer (MMT). The NC is homogenously dispersed in the aqueous solutions without crystallization of ABMT. However, the dispersity of the small particle size and the crystallinity of NC₁ is greatly enhanced in the presence of the biopolymer chitosan. The nanocomposites showed good non linear optical activity with suitable band gaps indicated the electron confinement in the NC. The loading and entrapment efficiency of ABMT onto MMT reached 89.3% in NC₁ during 6 h of contact time with the aqueous solution of pH 6.8. The enhanced redox characteristics of NC₁ relative to that of MMT suggested the better biological (antibacterial and antitumor) activity of NC₁. Chitosan enhanced the redox and the optical properties of NC₁ and its ability to undergo intercharge transfer to any acceptor sites. Hence, chitosan may added synergestic electron donation and, hence antitumor activity to the binary NC₁.

Molecular docking revealed the binding of nucleotide/side inhibitors to Zika viral polymerase solved structures

A new Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak started in 2015. According to the World Health Organization, 84 countries confirmed ZIKV infection. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) was an appealing target for drug designers during the last two decades. Through molecular docking, we screened 16 nucleotide/side inhibitors against ZIKV RdRp. While the mode of interaction with ZIKV is different from that in the hepatitis C virus (HCV), nucleotide/side inhibitors in this study (mostly anti-HCV) showed promising binding affinities (-6.2 to -9.7 kcal/mol calculated by AutoDock Vina) to ZIKV RdRp. Setrobuvir, YAK and, to a lesser extent, IDX-184 reveal promising results compared to other inhibitors in terms of binding ZIKV RdRp. These candidates would be powerful anti-ZIKV drugs.

Effect of clomiphene citrate on endometrial thickness, ovulation, pregnancy and live birth in anovulatory women: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the impact of clomiphene citrate (CC) vs other drug regimens on mid-cycle endometrial thickness (EMT), ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates in women with World Health Organization (WHO) group II ovulatory disorders.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, The Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials (CENTRAL) and the non-MEDLINE subset of PubMed from inception to December 2016 and cross-checked references of relevant articles. We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CC used alone vs other drug regimens for ovulation induction in women with WHO group II anovulation. Outcomes were mid-cycle EMT, ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates. We pooled weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for continuous variables (EMT) and risk ratios (RR) with 95% CI for binary variables (ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates).

RESULTS

We retrieved 1718 articles of which 33 RCTs (4349 women, 7210 ovulation induction cycles) were included. In 15 RCTs that compared CC with letrozole, EMT was lower in the CC group (1957 women, 3892 cycles; WMD, -1.39; 95% CI, -2.27 to -0.51; I²  = 100%), ovulation rates after CC and letrozole were comparable (1710 women, 3217 cycles; RR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.90-1.04; I²  = 47%), while CC led to a lower pregnancy rate (1957 women, 3892 cycles; RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.63-0.95; I²  = 43%) and a lower live birth rate (RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.49-0.98; I²  = 35%). In two RCTs that compared CC with CC plus metformin, EMT, ovulation and pregnancy rates were comparable (101 women, 140 cycles; WMD, -0.23; 95% CI, -0.92 to 0.45; I²  = 78%; RR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.67-1.06; I²  = 0%; and RR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.33-1.87; I²  = 0%). In three studies that compared CC with CC plus N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), EMT was lower in the CC group (340 women, 300 cycles; WMD, -1.51; 95% CI, -1.98 to -1.04; I²  = 45%). In two studies that compared CC with CC + nitric oxide (NO) donor, EMT was lower in the CC group (120 women, 304 cycles; WMD, -1.75; 95% CI, -2.08 to -1.41; I²  = 0%). Compared with CC plus NO donor or NAC, CC showed statistically significant lower ovulation and pregnancy rates. Compared with tamoxifen in three studies, CC showed a tendency towards lower EMT (571 women, 844 cycles; WMD, -1.34; 95% CI, -2.70 to 0.01; I²  = 96%) with comparable ovulation and pregnancy rates.

CONCLUSIONS

In women with WHO group II ovulatory disorders, ovulation induction with CC might result in lower EMT than other ovulation induction regimens. Whether the lower EMT caused the lower pregnancy and live birth rates remains to be elucidated. Letrozole seems to be beneficial for these women. However, our findings should be interpreted with caution as the quality of evidence was very low. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Rare presentation of idiopathic duodenoduodenal intussusception

Enteroenteric intussusception is a condition in which the full-thickness bowel wall becomes telescoped into the lumen of distal bowel. Intussusception in adult occurs infrequently and varies from childhood intussusception, particularly in its presentation, aetiology and treatment. Duodenoduodenal intussusception is rare because the duodenum is fixed in the retroperitoneal position. It usually occurs secondary to tumour, lipoma, Brunner's gland hamartomatous polyp or adenoma. The diagnosis in adults is usually made at laparotomy, where presentation is with intestinal obstruction. In non-emergency presentation, it may be difficult to arrive at an accurate diagnosis as symptoms may be vague, self-limiting intermittent abdominal pain. Clinical examinations and investigations may not be conclusive and another working diagnosis such as irritable bowel syndrome would be made. We describe a case where a patient initially presented with symptoms mimicking pancreatitis but his symptoms persisted over the course of 2 weeks. When a laparotomy was performed, duodenoduodenal intussusception was discovered and confirmed with histopathology. In this case, a discernible leading point could not be identified.

Autologous transplantation of CD34(+) bone marrow derived mononuclear cells in management of non-reconstructable critical lower limb ischemia

Patients with a decrease in limb perfusion with a potential threat to limb viability manifested by ischemic rest pain, ischemic ulcers, and/or gangrene are considered to have critical limb ischemia (CLI). Because of this generally poor outcome, there is a strong need for attempting any procedure to save the affected limb. The aim of this work is to evaluate the possibility to use stem cell therapy as a treatment option for patients with chronic critical lower limb ischemia with no distal run off. This study includes 20 patients with chronic critical lower limb ischemia with no distal run off who are unsuitable for vascular or endovascular option. These patients underwent stem cell therapy (SCT) by autologous transplantation of bone marrow derived mononuclear cells. 55 % of patients treated with SCT showed improvement of the rest pain after the first month, 60 % continued improvement of the rest pain after 6 months, 75 % after 1 year and 80 % after 2 years and continued without any deterioration till the third year. Limb salvage rate after STC was 80 % after the first year till the end of the second and third years. SCT can result in angiogenesis in patients with no-option CLI, providing a foundation for the application of this therapy to leg ischemia.

Characterization of hepatitis B virus surface antigen variability and impact on HBs antigen clearance under nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy

For hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related chronic infection under treatment by nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs), HBsAg clearance is the ultimate therapeutic goal but very infrequent. We investigated how HBV envelope protein variability could lead to differential HBsAg clearance on NUCs. For 12 HBV genotype D patients receiving NUCs, six resolvers (HBsAg clearance) were compared to six matched nonresolvers (HBsAg persistence). PreS/S amino acid (aa) sequences were analysed with bioinformatics to predict HBV envelope antigenicity and aa covariance. To enrich our analyses on very rare resolvers, these were compared with other HBV genotype D strains in three characterized clinical cohorts including common chronically infected patients. The sT125M+sP127T combination was observed in four nonresolvers of six, corroborated by aa covariance analysis, associated with a lower predicted antigenicity than sT125T+sP127P. Concordant features within this HBV key functional domain, at positions 125 and 127, were reported from two of the three comparative cohorts. In our hands, a lower ELISA reactivity of HBV-vaccinated mice sera was observed against the sT125M mutant. In the S gene, 56 aa changes in minor variants were detected in non-resolvers, mainly in the major hydrophilic region, vs 28 aa changes in resolvers. Molecular features in patients showing HBsAg persistence on NUCs argue in favour of a different aa pattern in the HBV S gene compared to those showing HBsAg clearance. In nonresolvers, a decrease in HBs 'a' determinant antigenicity and more frequent mutations in the S gene suggest a role for the HBV envelope characteristics in HBsAg persistence.

From QTL to variety-harnessing the benefits of QTLs for drought, flood and salt tolerance in mega rice varieties of India through a multi-institutional network

Rice is a staple cereal of India cultivated in about 43.5Mha area but with relatively low average productivity. Abiotic factors like drought, flood and salinity affect rice production adversely in more than 50% of this area. Breeding rice varieties with inbuilt tolerance to these stresses offers an economically viable and sustainable option to improve rice productivity. Availability of high quality reference genome sequence of rice, knowledge of exact position of genes/QTLs governing tolerance to abiotic stresses and availability of DNA markers linked to these traits has opened up opportunities for breeders to transfer the favorable alleles into widely grown rice varieties through marker-assisted backcross breeding (MABB). A large multi-institutional project, "From QTL to variety: marker-assisted breeding of abiotic stress tolerant rice varieties with major QTLs for drought, submergence and salt tolerance" was initiated in 2010 with funding support from Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, in collaboration with International Rice Research Institute, Philippines. The main focus of this project is to improve rice productivity in the fragile ecosystems of eastern, northeastern and southern part of the country, which bear the brunt of one or the other abiotic stresses frequently. Seven consistent QTLs for grain yield under drought, namely, qDTY1.1, qDTY2.1, qDTY2.2, qDTY3.1, qDTY3.2, qDTY9.1 and qDTY12.1 are being transferred into submergence tolerant versions of three high yielding mega rice varieties, Swarna-Sub1, Samba Mahsuri-Sub1 and IR 64-Sub1. To address the problem of complete submergence due to flash floods in the major river basins, the Sub1 gene is being transferred into ten highly popular locally adapted rice varieties namely, ADT 39, ADT 46, Bahadur, HUR 105, MTU 1075, Pooja, Pratikshya, Rajendra Mahsuri, Ranjit, and Sarjoo 52. Further, to address the problem of soil salinity, Saltol, a major QTL for salt tolerance is being transferred into seven popular locally adapted rice varieties, namely, ADT 45, CR 1009, Gayatri, MTU 1010, PR 114, Pusa 44 and Sarjoo 52. Genotypic background selection is being done after BC2F2 stage using an in-house designed 50K SNP chip on a set of twenty lines for each combination, identified with phenotypic similarity in the field to the recipient parent. Near-isogenic lines with more than 90% similarity to the recipient parent are now in advanced generation field trials. These climate smart varieties are expected to improve rice productivity in the adverse ecologies and contribute to the farmer's livelihood.

Mother to child transmission of hepatitis B virus: a cause for concern

Mother to child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important public health issue. India introduced HBV vaccine in 10 states as part of its Universal Immunization Program (UIP). Here we show evidence of mother-to-child transmission of HBV in three families from Jharkhand and Bihar states where HBV vaccination is not yet included in the UIP. This report illustrates the need for active screening of HBV in pregnant women and implementation of HBV vaccine across all states in India to reduce the burden of disease.

Antiviral efficacy of adefovir dipivoxil in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B subjects from Indian subcontinent

Adefovir is one of the therapeutic options for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. A total of 30 adefovir-experienced subjects with the median treatment duration of 12 (interquartile range (IQR) 6-18) months were studied. Virological response was measured by hepatitis B virus deoxyribonucleic acid (HBV DNA) levels. HBV reverse transcriptase (rt) domains were sequenced for the identification of resistance mutations. Among the 30 subjects, two (7%) showed virological response and 19 (63%) were non-responders. The virological response for the remaining nine (30%) subjects was not determined. On sequence analysis, two subjects were identified with rtI169L and rtA181V mutation after 9 months and 18 months of adefovir treatment, respectively. Though the frequencies of adefovir resistance mutations are low, a large majority of subjects showed non-response. Therefore, adefovir in the management of HBV should be used judiciously.

Production and properties of fibrinolytic enzyme fromStreptomyces sp. NRC 411

Of 16Streptomyces spp. investigated for the production of extracellular fibrinolytic enzyme, one species was chosen as the most promising producer. Using shaken cultures grown for 7 days, optimal conditions for enzyme production were pH 6.0, 5% (w/v) starch as carbon source, (NH4)2SO4 and soybean flour as nitrogen sources and KH2PO4 at 1.2 g/l. Maximal activity of the crude enzyme was at pH 6.0 and 45°C. Holding the enzyme at 37°C for 2 h decreased the activity by only 10%.

A comparative study on the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of bimatoprost/timolol and dorzolamide/timolol combinations in glaucoma patients

Aim:

This study was designed to compare the bimatoprost/timolol combination and dorzolamide/timolol combination in glaucoma for efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness in a local population of Trichy in the state of Tamilnadu.

Materials and Methods:

Eight-week, randomized, parallel group, open-label study was conducted on 48 patients of open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. After initial clinical assessment and baseline investigations, bimatoprost/timolol combination (Group A) was prescribed to 22 patients (2 patients lost after initial assessment) and dorzolamide/timolol combination (Group B) to 24 patients. The patients were reviewed after second and eighth weeks for cure rate and adverse drug reaction monitoring.

Results:

At the end of 8 weeks, the mean reduction in intraocular pressure from baseline was 13.04 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI): 10.67–14.70) with bimatoprost/timolol combination once daily (P < 0.01) and 9.46 mmHg (95% CI: 7.47–10.5) with dorzolamide/timolol combination twice daily. Both the treatments were safe. Cost-effective range of bimatoprost/timolol combination was lower than that of dorzolamide/timolol combination.

Conclusion:

The fixed combination of bimatoprost/timolol was slightly more effective than that of dorzolamide/timolol combination in reducing IOP, and both treatments were generally well tolerated. Bimatoprost/timolol combination was more cost-effective (cost-effective analysis) than dorzolamide/timolol combination.

Antiviral resistance mutations and genotype-associated amino acid substitutions in treatment-naïve hepatitis B virus-infected individuals from the Indian subcontinent

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Antiviral resistance is a major challenge to the treatment currently available for hepatitis B virus (HBV). In this study, mutations that may affect the antiviral efficacy in treatment-naïve HBV-infected individuals were analyzed.

METHODS

Ninety-seven treatment-naïve HBV-infected individuals were included in this study. HBV reverse transcriptase (rt) domains were sequenced and nucleotide differences were compared to GenBank wild-type sequences. Furthermore, HBV genotypes, subgenotypes and subtypes were determined by analyzing surface gene sequences.

RESULTS

An adefovir-related rtI233V mutation was identified in 4 subjects. The rtS213T lamivudine and entecavir refractory mutant was presented in 3 individuals. Altogether, drug-related, atypical and novel HBVrt amino acid substitutions were seen in 73 positions. The HBV genotypes A, C, D and G were depicted in 15, 21, 60 and 1 individuals, respectively. There were 17 HBVrt amino acid substitutions that are associated with certain genotypes of HBV. Mutations in HBVrt corresponded to established surface gene mutations in 9 patients.

CONCLUSION

This data shows that antiviral-resistant HBV strains do exist in treatment-naïve individuals in this region. Further studies are essential to characterize the role of HBVrt amino acid substitutions in response to anti-HBV therapy.

Association of mannose-binding lectin polymorphisms and HBV outcome in a South Indian population

Mannose binding lectin (MBL) is an important innate immune system pattern recognition molecule. The MBL gene polymorphisms are reported to play a crucial role in outcome of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. In this study, we ascertained the association of MBL genotypes with HBV outcome in a South Indian population. The MBL gene polymorphisms at codons 52, 54 and 57 of exon I, and promoter polymorphisms at -221 were typed by polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primer in spontaneously recovered and in chronic HBV group. The allele frequency of codon 52 'C' was significantly higher in chronic HBV group than in the recovered group (98.5% vs. 93.6%; P = 0.003) and codon 52 'T' was significantly higher in recovered group than in the chronic group (6.4% vs. 1.5%; P = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, after adjusting for age, sex and state of origin, codon 52 'CC' and 'CT' genotypes were significantly associated with chronicity and recovery respectively [odds ratio (OR), 0.25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.08-0.80, P = 0.02] in co-dominant analyzing models. This was re-affirmed in analysis performed exclusively on Tamil Nadu subjects (OR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.06-0.93, P = 0.039). The frequency of low/none haplotype (XY/O) was significantly higher in recovered group than in chronic group (15.6% vs 7.5%) and associated with spontaneous recovery (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.04-4.99, P = 0.035). Our results provide preliminary evidence that inheritance of codon 52 genotypes and XY/O haplotype associated with low MBL level substantially determine the outcome of HBV infection in a sympatrically isolated South Indian population.

A marker-assisted backcross approach for developing submergence-tolerant rice cultivars

Submergence stress regularly affects 15 million hectares or more of rainfed lowland rice areas in South and Southeast Asia. A major QTL on chromosome 9, Sub1, has provided the opportunity to apply marker assisted backcrossing (MAB) to develop submergence tolerant versions of rice cultivars that are widely grown in the region. In the present study, molecular markers that were tightly linked with Sub1, flanking Sub1, and unlinked to Sub1 were used to apply foreground, recombinant, and background selection, respectively, in backcrosses between a submergence-tolerant donor and the widely grown recurrent parent Swarna. By the BC(2)F(2) generation a submergence tolerant plant was identified that possessed Swarna type simple sequence repeat (SSR) alleles on all fragments analyzed except the tip segment of rice chromosome 9 that possessed the Sub1 locus. A BC(3)F(2) double recombinant plant was identified that was homozygous for all Swarna type alleles except for an approximately 2.3-3.4 Mb region surrounding the Sub1 locus. The results showed that the mega variety Swarna could be efficiently converted to a submergence tolerant variety in three backcross generations, involving a time of two to three years. Polymorphic markers for foreground and recombinant selection were identified for four other mega varieties to develop a wider range of submergence tolerant varieties to meet the needs of farmers in the flood-prone regions. This approach demonstrates the effective use of marker assisted selection for a major QTL in a molecular breeding program.

Estrogen and progesterone receptors and telomerase enzyme immunohistochemical detection in gestational trophoblastic tumors

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the immunohistochemical detection of telomerase enzyme and estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PGR) in gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) and its clinical significance. Formalin-fixed paraffin blocks for 30 patients (24 with molar pregnancy, 3 with choriocarcinoma, and 3 with placental site trophoblastic tumor) as cases and six products of conception samples from patients with incomplete abortion as controls were included in the study. Immunohistochemical detection of the telomerase catalytic protein and ER and PGR was carried out using streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. All control tissues were negative for telomerase and ER expression, while five of six were PGR positive. Significant positive telomerase expression was detected in all gestational trophoblastic tumors (three of six partial moles, 12 of 18 complete moles, three of three choriocarcinomas, and two of three placental site trophoblastic tumors). Nine of 24 molar pregnancies were followed by GTN. Molar pregnancies followed by GTN were associated with higher serum beta-hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophic hormone), larger uterine size for gestational age, negative ER expression, negative PGR expression, and positive telomerase expression. All patients with molar pregnancy with negative telomerase expression (9 of 24) showed spontaneous regression after evacuation. Positive telomerase expression and its immunohistochemical detection are associated with the development of GTN. Negative telomerase expression is highly predictive of postmolar spontaneous regression. Patients with molar pregnancies with negative telomerase expression can be saved the long-term follow-up. ER and PGR expression do not show a significantly different pattern in molar tissues, while negative expression is associated with developing GTN. Cautions on the use of postmolar hormonal contraception may be unjustified.

Spontaneous rectus sheath haematoma in pregnancy

Bleeding into the rectus sheath is an uncommon but a well-recognised condition that mimics several other diagnoses of acute abdomen. A wide range of etiology has been proposed in association with this condition. It is often self-limiting, but can lead to unnecessary laparotomy if the diagnosis is not recognised.

An improved genetic linkage map for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) combining AFLP, RFLP, RAPD, biochemical markers, and biological resistance traits

An improved genetic linkage map has been constructed for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) based on the segregation of various molecular markers and biological resistance traits in a population of 94 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross between 'IT84S-2049' and '524B'. A set of 242 molecular markers, mostly amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), linked to 17 biological resistance traits, resistance genes, and resistance gene analogs (RGAs) were scored for segregation within the parental and recombinant inbred lines. These data were used in conjunction with the 181 random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), AFLP, and biochemical markers previously mapped to construct an integrated linkage map for cowpea. The new genetic map of cowpea consists of 11 linkage groups (LGs) spanning a total of 2670 cM, with an average distance of 6.43 cM between markers. Astonishingly, a large, contiguous portion of LG1 that had been undetected in previous mapping work was discovered. This region, spanning about 580 cM, is composed entirely of AFLP markers (54 in total). In addition to the construction of a new map, molecular markers associated with various biological resistance and (or) tolerance traits, resistance genes, and RGAs were also placed on the map, including markers for resistance to Striga gesnerioides races 1 and 3, CPMV, CPSMV, B1CMV, SBMV, Fusarium wilt, and root-knot nematodes. These markers will be useful for the development of tools for marker-assisted selection in cowpea breeding, as well as for subsequent map-based cloning of the various resistance genes.

Production and properties of beta-mannanase by free and immobilized cells of Aspergillus oryzae NRRL 3488

Seven fungi were tested for production of mannanases. The highest mannanase activities were produced by Aspergillus oryzae NRRL 3488 after 7 days in static cultures. Mannanases were induced by gum locust bean (1.0%). The highest mannanase activity was produced when a mixture of peptone, urea and ammonium sulphate was used as nitrogen source. Zn2+ or Co2+ favoured enzyme production. The immobilized cells on Ca-alginate and agar were able to produce beta-mannanase for four runs with a slight decrease in the activity. The optimum temperature for enzyme reaction was 50-55 degrees C at pH 6.0. In the absence of substrate the enzyme was thermostable retaining 75% activity for 1 h at 50 degrees C, and 68% activity for 1 h at 60 degrees C.

Ultrasound biomicroscopy of haptic position after transscleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses

PURPOSE

To determine the haptic position of ab externo transsclerally fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC IOLs) by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).

SETTING

Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.

METHODS

Ultrasound biomicroscopy was used to determine the haptic position in relation to the ciliary sulcus, iris, and ciliary body in 20 patients with transsclerally fixated PC IOLs. The patients ranged in age from 10 to 65 years.

RESULTS

All IOL haptics were easily visualized and imaged by UBM. Of the 40 IOL haptics, 22 (55.0%) were located in the sulcus, 11 (27.5%) anterior to the sulcus, and 7 (17.5%) posterior to the sulcus region.

CONCLUSIONS

Ab externo scleral fixation of PC IOLs is a blind procedure in most cases. Ultrasound biomicroscopy showed the difficulty in reliably placing the haptics in the ciliary sulcus using this technique. Thus, endoscopic visualization of the iridociliary angle during surgery is recommended.

Radionuclides in hot mineral spring waters in Jordan

Hot mineral springs in Jordan are very attractive to people who seek physical healing but they are unaware of natural radioactive elements that may be contained in the hot mineral water. The activities of the natural radioactive isotopes were measured and the concentrations of the parents of their natural radioactive series were calculated. The measured radionuclides were 234Th, 226Ra, 214Pb, 214Bi, 228Ac, 228Th, 212Pb, 212Bi and 208Tl. In addition the activities of 235U and 40K were measured. The activities ranged from 0.14 to 34.8 Bq/l, while the concentrations of parent uranium and thorium isotopes ranged from 3.0 x 10(-3) to 0.59 mg/l. The results were compared with those for drinking water.

Allelic variation of a dehydrin gene cosegregates with chilling tolerance during seedling emergence

Dehydrins (DHNs, LEA D-11) are plant proteins present during environmental stresses associated with dehydration or low temperatures and during seed maturation. Functions of DHNs have not yet been defined. Earlier, we hypothesized that a approximately 35-kDa DHN and membrane properties that reduce electrolyte leakage from seeds confer chilling tolerance during seedling emergence of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) in an additive and independent manner. Evidence for this hypothesis was not rigorous because it was based on correlations of presence/absence of the DHN and slow electrolyte leakage with chilling tolerance in closely related cowpea lines that have some other genetic differences. Here, we provide more compelling genetic evidence for involvement of the DHN in chilling tolerance of cowpea. We developed near-isogenic lines by backcrossing. We isolated and determined the sequence of a cDNA corresponding to the approximately 35-kDa DHN and used gene-specific oligonucleotides derived from it to test the genetic linkage between the DHN presence/absence trait and the DHN structural gene. We tested for association between the DHN presence/absence trait and both low-temperature seed emergence and electrolyte leakage. We show that allelic differences in the Dhn structural gene map to the same position as the DHN protein presence/absence trait and that the presence of the approximately 35-kDa DHN is indeed associated with chilling tolerance during seedling emergence, independent of electrolyte leakage effects. Two types of allelic variation in the Dhn gene were identified in the protein-coding region, deletion of one Phi-segment from the DHN-negative lines and two single amino acid substitutions.

Purification and partial characterization of a dehydrin involved in chilling tolerance during seedling emergence of cowpea

Dehydrins are a family of proteins (LEA [late-embryogenesis abundant] D11) commonly induced by environmental stresses associated with low temperature or dehydration and during seed maturation drying. Our previous genetic studies suggested an association of an approximately 35-kD protein (by immunological evidence a dehydrin) with chilling tolerance during emergence of seedlings of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) line 1393-2-11. In the present study we found that the accumulation of this protein in developing cowpea seeds is coordinated with the start of the dehydration phase of embryo development. We purified this protein from dry seeds of cowpea line 1393-2-11 by using the characteristic high-temperature solubility of dehydrins as an initial enrichment step, which was followed by three chromatography steps involving cation exchange, hydrophobic interaction, and anion exchange. Various characteristics of this protein confirmed that indeed it is a dehydrin, including total amino acid composition, partial amino acid sequencing, and the adoption of alpha-helical structure in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. The propensity of dehydrins to adopt alpha-helical structure in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate, together with the apparent polypeptide adhesion property of this cowpea dehydrin, suggests a role in stabilizing other proteins or membranes. Taken together, the genetic, physiological, and physicochemical data are at this stage consistent with a cause-and-effect relationship between the presence in mature seeds of the approximately 35-kD dehydrin, which is the product of a single member of a multigene family, and an increment of chilling tolerance during emergence of cowpea seedlings.

Prognosis in Perthes' disease: a comparison of radiological predictors

We compared the prognostic value of the Catterall grouping, the Salter-Thompson grading, the arthrographic shape of the femoral head, and the Herring lateral pillar grouping during the fragmentation stage of Perthes' disease in 73 patients with 81 affected hips. Radiographs were available for study from the onset of the disease until skeletal maturity. We used the Stulberg classification to assess outcome. The Herring grade and arthrographic sphericity proved to be the best predictors of final outcome. Combining these two values further increased the predictive value. All but one patient in Herring group A achieved an excellent outcome. In Herring group B, the age of the child and the sphericity of the femoral head influenced the end result. If the child was less than seven years old at the onset of symptoms the prognosis was invariably good and all spherical hips in group B had a good outcome with Stulberg grades 1 or 2. Moderately and severely deformed hips on arthrography resulted in Stulberg 3 and 4 hips. None of the hips in Herring group C had a normal appearance at maturity and the outcome was not significantly influenced by the age at onset or the arthrographic appearance.

Glomerulonephritis in Kelantan, Malaysia: a review of the histological pattern

Renal biopsy is essential in the management of renal parenchymal diseases. Thus far there is no publish report on the pattern of glomerulonephritis in Kelantan. We decided to establish the pattern of glomerulonephritis in Kelantan and use this information as our reference in future studies. Records of patients who had proven glomerulonephritis histologically were analysed. Their biological data, clinical presentation, etiology and clinicopathological pattern were studied. Where appropriate mean and standard deviation were calculated. A total of 74 biopsies were performed during the study period (between January 1991 and December 1993), out of which 72 biopsies (97.3%) were considered suitable for analysis. The male to female ratio was 1:1.1. Mean age at presentation was 27.6 +/- 12.2 years. Nephrotic syndrome was the commonest clinical presentation (65.3%). The main underlying cause was systemic lupus erythematosus (50%) followed by primary glomerulonephritis. Histologically, IgA nephropathy and minimal change disease were the main patterns among patients with primary glomerulonephritis while diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis was the commonest pattern among patients with lupus nephritis. Hence the pattern of glomerulonephritis is similar to other reported series. The procedure is considered safe and has a high success rate.

Production and some properties of fibrinolytic enzymes from Fusarium oxysporum N.R.C.1

A mixture of yeast extract and peptone in the culture medium was the most favourable for the production of active fibrinolytic enzyme by Fusarium oxysporum N.R.C.1. Potassium dihydrogen phosphate had stimulating effect, while glucose, sucrose, lactose, ribose and soluble starch had adverse effect on enzyme productivity. The optimum of the fibrinolytic enzyme activity was at pH 7.0.

Trends in pediatric casualties in a regional hospital of Kuwait

The purpose of this study was to statistically analyze the emergency care services of the Paediatric Department of Farwania Hospital, Kuwait. The study was conducted from 1 July 1987 until 30 June 1988, during which a total of 77,497 cases were recorded (41,594 [53.7%] males; 35,903 [46.3%] females). Kuwaiti children represented 40,738 (52.5%) of the total. Children aged 2 to 5 years constituted 22,805 (29.4%) of the cases, and the age group 1 month to 1 year comprised the second largest group (15,475; 19.9%). Admissions peaked in February (8,425 [10.8%]) and Friday was the busiest day (13,561 [17.5%]). There were 61,242 (79.02%) self-referrals. Respiratory diseases were the most common reason for emergency room visits, and totaled 51,583 (66.5%), followed by gastroenteritis with 19,898 (25.7%). This study points up an alarming increase in the number of visits to the casualty clinics of Farwania Hospital. If this increase continues, this will not only markedly increase the burden to staff but will also adversely affect the quality of services.

Measles in Equatoria region--south Sudan

A retrospective analysis of 208 cases of measles admitted to Sabbah Children's Hospital, Juba is presented. Seventeen per cent of the children were less than 10 months of age. The overall case fatality rate was 23%. The death rate was lowest in the first 9 months of life and increased with age, as did the incidence of malnutrition. It is recommended that measles vaccination should commence at 6 months of age in the Juba area, and that intensive health education about the dangers and management of measles be instituted.

Abortion rate and mortality among exotic pregnant heifers imported to the Gezira in the central region of the Sudan

Despite the intensive management and husbandry precautions, exotic pregnant heifers imported to the Gezira, Sudan, suffered excessive stress. Four of five heifers aborted due to stress. Death was due to pasteurellosis, babesiosis and heart water.

Action of some amides of substituted ethylenediamines on central nervous system

Five of the substituted ethylenediamine amides (LMG I to V) were tested for various CNS attributes and for acute toxicity (24 hr mortality). All compounds were potent analgesics in various animal tests, LMG V being most potent. All reduced spontaneous activity of mice and potentiated ether anaesthesia. However, CAR was not altered and anti-MES were not pronounced in rats. Compounds appear to have a wide safety margin considering ED50 and LD50 in mice.

Pharmacological studies of certain amides of substituted ethylenediamines - I

Five substituted amides of ethylenediamines produced hypotension in dogs, which was not blocked by atropine, mepyramine and propranolol. The amides potentiated the pressor responses to Adr and NA and antagonised the depressor responses to Ach and histamine. The compounds also antagonised Ach-induced contractions on the frog rectus abdominis muscle and of carbachol on rat isolated colon suggesting d-tc and atropine-like actions respectively. Antihistaminic activity was observed on guinea pig isolated ileum as on dog blood pressure. Adr and NA-induced relaxation of rabbit isolated jejunum was potentiated. Finally Adr and NA-induced contractions of rat isolated seminal vesicle was antagonised.

Effects of massive intestinal resection and splenectomy on portal pressure and thoracic duct lymph. An experimental study

The effect of massive intestinal resection (MIR) alone and when combined with splenectomy, on portal pressure and thoracic duct lymph (TDL) flow, and protein content, was experimentally studied in a series of 12 dogs with created presinusoidal portal obstruction. MIR was associated with a significant drop in the portal pressure and TDL flow, and significant increase in TDL protein content. When splenectomy was added, more reduction of the portal pressure and TDL flow was obtained. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to the hemo- and lymphodynamic changes in presinusoidal portal obstruction.

Preparation and properties of pectic enzymes produced by Trichoderma lignorum

Polygalacturonase and protein-methylesterase were isolated from shaken culture of Trichoderma lignorium. Isolation was carried out with various agents. Methanol was the most suitable precipitant for isolating polygalacturonase, yielding enzyme preparations 6.6 times more active than that of culture filtrate. Likewise, tannin afforded active fractions at pH 4 and 0.05% concentrations. Similarly, 50% ammonium sulphate saturation gave active fractions. The least polygalacturonase activity was obtained from ethanol. In any of the organic solvents used, highest enzymic activity was obtained when using only one volume. As regards pectin-methylesterase, no correlation existed between its activity and concentration of the precipitant used. A substrate concentration above 0.8% was a limiting factor for polygalacturonase activity, while optimum enzyme concentration was 40 microgram protein/ml at 40 degrees C and pH 4.45.

Percutaneous trans hepatic lymphography: evaluation in schistosomal hepatic fibrosis

The increased interest in lymph and lymphatics has cast its mantle over the portal circulation. Lymphography has contributed greately to our knowledge. In the present study percutaneous transhepatic lymphography showed some of the factors sharing in the production of portal hypertension in schistosomal hepatic fibrosis, and gave a further evidence that the liver is not a source of excess lymph production in hepatic lesions associated with presinusoidal block to portal blood flow. Hepatic lymphatics were opacified in cases with mixed cirrhosis and schistosomal hepatic fibrosis as the sinusoidal pressure is elevated with subsequent cases increase in hepatic lymph production.

The role of lymphatics in the formation of ascites complicating schistosomal hepatic fibrosis

The total protein content in plasma, ascitic fluid, thoracic duct lymph, hepatic and intestinal lymph was studied in a series of 15 patients suffering from schistosomal hepatic fibrosis and intractable ascites. Pure schistosomal cases with presinusoidal resistance to portal blood flow have excessive thoracic duct lymph low in protein. The main source of such excess lymph is the extra-hepatic portal bed. Ascitic fluid in such patients has a low protein content and has the character of a transudate. The bulk of such peritoneal fluid seems to originate largely from the excess extrahepatic portal lymph.