Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Receptor, CRTH2, Antagonist Treatment Improves Eosinophil and Mast Cell-Mediated Esophageal Remodeling and Motility Dysfunction in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Ultrasonography has shown that eosinophils accumulate in each segment of the esophageal mucosa in human EoE, ultimately promoting esophageal motility dysfunction; however, no mechanistic evidence explains how or why this accumulation occurs.

METHODS

Quantitative PCR, ELISA, flow cytometry, immunostaining, and immunofluorescence analyses were performed using antibodies specific to the related antigens and receptors.

RESULTS

In deep esophageal biopsies of EoE patients, eosinophils and mast cells accumulate adjacent to nerve cell-derived VIP in each esophageal segment. qRT-PCR analysis revealed five- to sixfold increases in expression levels of VIP, CRTH2, and VAPC2 receptors and proteins in human blood- and tissue-accumulated eosinophils and mast cells. We also observed a significant correlation between mRNA CRTH2 levels and eosinophil- and nerve cell-derived VIPs in human EoE (p < 0.05). We provide evidence that eosinophil and mast cell deficiency following CRTH2 antagonist treatment improves motility dysfunction in a chronic DOX-inducible CC10-IL-13 murine model of experimental EoE.

CONCLUSIONS

CRTH2 antagonist treatment is a novel therapeutic strategy for inflammatory cell-induced esophageal motility dysfunction in IL-13-induced chronic experimental EoE.

Genetic diversity, morphological traits, quality traits and antioxidants potentiality of Coccinia grandis germplasm under rainfed semi-arid region

The present study was conducted to evaluate the genetic variability for morphological and qualitative traits of Coccinia for development of trait specific lines at ICAR-Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CIAH-RS), Panchmahals (Godhra), Gujarat during 2020-2022. In this study, we evaluated 26 gynoecious accessions to assess the genetic divergence through principal component and cluster analysis. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replications under rainfed semi-arid conditions. High values of PCV and GCV were observed for variables such as NFFP (25.13 and 22.20), PL (23.14 and 20.69), FD (24.01 and 21.46), AFW (22.98 and 20.13), NFPY (26.38 and 24.40), FYP (37.57 and 31.29), FY (35.55 and 33.20), AsC (28.65 and 27.73), Ac (24.32 and 21.06), TSS (37.23 and 35.94), DPPHL (20.71 and 20.38), FRAPL (21.08 and 20.92), TPF(20.81 and 20.45) respectively. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for vine length (VL), internodal length (IL), number of female flowers per plant (NFFP), fruit length (FL), peduncle length (PL), fruit diameter (FD), average fruit weight (AFW), number of fruit per plant per year (NFPY), fruit yield per plant (FYP), fruit yield (FY), ascorbic acid (AsC), acidity (Ac), total soluble solids (TSS), total phenols in leaves TPL), total flavonoids in leaves TFL, CUPRAC in leaves (CUPRACL), DPPH in leaves (DPPHL), FRAP in leaves (FRAPL), Total phenols in fruits (TPF), Total flavonoids in fruits (TFF), CUPRAC in fruits (CUPRACF) and DPPH in fruits (DPPHF). The FYP exhibited a significant positive correlation with variables like VL (0.6833), IL (0.2991), NFFP (0.8107), FD (0.5245), AFW (0.6766), NFPY (0.7659), ASC (0.4611), TSS (0.5004) and TPF (0.4281). The estimates of genetic parameters revealed scope for further improvement of fruit yield by selection. Of the eight principal components, PC-I through PC-VIII had eigen values greater than 1 and it accounts 85.02% of the total variation for 26 gynoecious accessions of Ivy gourd. The eigen values of PC-I comprised 5.775% of total variation followed by PC-II (4.250%), PC-III (3.175%), PC-IV (2.588%), PC-V (1.828%), PC-VI (1.447%), PC-VII (1.179%) and PC-VIII (1.013%).The cluster VI and cluster I having highest mean values for most of traits under study. Thus, genotypes from the distinct cluster like cluster VI and I for should be used for selection of parents and varietal improvement for further breeding programme in ivy gourd.

Effects of oral probiotic and lactoferrin interventions on iron-zinc homeostasis, oxidant/antioxidant equilibrium and diarrhoea incidence of neonatal piglets

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of early-life host specific probiotic and lactoferrin (LF) supplementations on diarrhoea incidence, iron (Fe)-zinc (Zn) balance and antioxidant capabilities in serum of neonatal piglets. A total of eight sow litters obtained from parity matched sows were randomly divided into four groups and assigned to one of the four interventions: control (2.0 ml normal saline), bovine lactoferrin (bLF) (100 mg bLF in normal saline), probiotic (Pb) (1×10⁹ cfu of swine origin Pediococcus acidilactici FT28 strain) and bLF+Pb (both 100 mg bLF and 1×10⁹ cfu of P. acidilactici FT28). All the piglets received supplementations once daily orally for first 7 days of life. The incidence of diarrhoea markedly decreased in bLF group compared to control group. Notably, no incidences of diarrhoea were recorded in Pb and bLF+Pb groups. The Zn and Fe concentrations were significantly increased from day 7 to 21 in bLF and on day 21 in bLF+Pb group. No such changes were noted in Pb group. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in serum was significantly increased on days 7 and 15 in bLF group and on days 7 and 21 in bLF+Pb group. Malonaldehyde concentration was markedly reduced from day 7 to 21 in bLF and bLF+Pb groups. The concentrations of nitrate on days 15 and 21 and malonaldehyde on day 7 were significantly higher in Pb group, but mean TAC was unaltered from day 0 to 21. Although no correlation between the incidence of diarrhoea and Zn/Fe and oxidant/antioxidant homeostasis was noted in the Pb group, the supplementation of P. acidilactici FT28 alone was sufficient to prevent the incidence of diarrhoea in neonatal piglets. Taken together, it is concluded that strategic supplementation of P. acidilactici FT28 in early life could help in preventing diarrhoea until weaning of piglets.

Abiotic and biotic stress alleviating effects of the medicinal and aromatic plant-derived product on striped catfish Pangasianodonhypophthalmus

Intensification of aquaculture production leads to abiotic and biotic stresses, which are further induced by the impact of climate change. Thus, it is important to explore a combined strategy to alleviate multiple stresses in fish. In the present investigation, the removal of nitrogenous metabolites from aquaponics water was studied using products derived from five different locally available medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) namely banana stem (Musa Accuminata), Aloe vera, Mint (Minata sepicata), Indian beech/Pongameoil-tree/Karanj (Pongamia pinnatum), and Coat Button/Mexican daisy/Dagadipala (Tridax procrumbens) in the batch experiment for 24 h. A reduction of 91-94% in the ammonia level and 75-80% removal of nitrite-N in the treatments with products derived from mint, banana stem, and aloe vera has been observed. Mint product was also found to be bactericidal against fish pathogenic bacteria. Based on this dual function of mint, further study was conducted under wet-lab conditions to evaluate the possible protective role of the mint-based product in dry powder form against abiotic stresses caused by nitrogenous toxicants for 24 h and 45 days multiple stresses caused by nitrogenous toxicants in freshwater stocked with eight fingerlings of Pangasianodon hypophthalmus of the initial weight of 8 ± 0.5g for 24 h and 8.82 ± 0.75g for 45 days. The results revealed that mint-derived plant product has better anti-stress properties in terms of their bioremediation effectiveness in lowering ammonia and nitrite. Mint also improved the fish growth performance with better physiological responses and anti-oxidative status and reduced the cellular metabolic stress in fish reared under ammonia, as further indicated by reduced oxidative stress parameters, and tissue biochemical indices. Overall, mint showed its main properties as a growth promoter, and immune enhancer, where this medicinal plant product acts as a bioremediation and antibacterial agent to the host immune system. This has potential applications in the environmental and health management of aquaculture.

Differential proteomic profile of X- and Y- sorted Sahiwal bull semen

The identification of differential proteins between X- and Y-sperm may be useful for immunological sexing of sperm. Hence, the present study was aimed to compare the protein profile of X- and Y-sorted Sahiwal bull semen using SDS-PAGE and Liquid Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (Nano LC-MS). Semen sample (n = 6) were categorized into three groups i.e., group I (X-sorted), group II (Y-sorted) and control group (both X- and Y- sperms). SDS PAGE revealed specific proteins of molecular weight between 18 and 24 kDa and between 30 and 37 kDa were present in X-sorted sperms. Also, band corresponding to 25 kDa was specific to Y-sorted sperms. Data obtained from Nano LC/MS is analysed by search engine database i.e., MASCOT and SEQUEST HT. Total, 241 proteins were identified, out of which 113 were differentially expressed between X- and Y-sorted sperms, in which 54 proteins showed at least two unique peptides. Out of 54 proteins, 27 were upregulated in X-sorted sample, 3 were upregulated in Y-sorted sample and 24 were differentially downregulated. Highly upregulated protein in X-sperm viz. Armadillo repeat containing 12 protein, NDC1 transmembrane nucleoporin, β-nerve growth factor, C-type natriuretic peptide, Nucleobindin-2, Phosphoglycerate mutase 2, Calmodulin along with one uncharacterised protein having accession number F1MN9 may have potential to be used as biomarker for separating X and Y sperm.

Association of clinical factors and recent anticancer therapy with COVID-19 severity among patients with cancer: a report from the COVID-19 and Cancer Consortium

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer may be at high risk of adverse outcomes from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We analyzed a cohort of patients with cancer and coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) reported to the COVID-19 and Cancer Consortium (CCC19) to identify prognostic clinical factors, including laboratory measurements and anticancer therapies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with active or historical cancer and a laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis recorded between 17 March and 18 November 2020 were included. The primary outcome was COVID-19 severity measured on an ordinal scale (uncomplicated, hospitalized, admitted to intensive care unit, mechanically ventilated, died within 30 days). Multivariable regression models included demographics, cancer status, anticancer therapy and timing, COVID-19-directed therapies, and laboratory measurements (among hospitalized patients).

RESULTS

A total of 4966 patients were included (median age 66 years, 51% female, 50% non-Hispanic white); 2872 (58%) were hospitalized and 695 (14%) died; 61% had cancer that was present, diagnosed, or treated within the year prior to COVID-19 diagnosis. Older age, male sex, obesity, cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities, renal disease, diabetes mellitus, non-Hispanic black race, Hispanic ethnicity, worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, recent cytotoxic chemotherapy, and hematologic malignancy were associated with higher COVID-19 severity. Among hospitalized patients, low or high absolute lymphocyte count; high absolute neutrophil count; low platelet count; abnormal creatinine; troponin; lactate dehydrogenase; and C-reactive protein were associated with higher COVID-19 severity. Patients diagnosed early in the COVID-19 pandemic (January-April 2020) had worse outcomes than those diagnosed later. Specific anticancer therapies (e.g. R-CHOP, platinum combined with etoposide, and DNA methyltransferase inhibitors) were associated with high 30-day all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical factors (e.g. older age, hematological malignancy, recent chemotherapy) and laboratory measurements were associated with poor outcomes among patients with cancer and COVID-19. Although further studies are needed, caution may be required in utilizing particular anticancer therapies.

CLINICAL TRIAL IDENTIFIER

NCT04354701.

Comparative retrospective analysis of locoregional recurrence in unselected breast cancer patients treated with conventional versus hypofractionated radiotherapy at a tertiary cancer center?

Background

Role of hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) in early breast cancer is established; comparatively, there are limited data for HFRT in locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). We report the impact of HFRT in unselected breast cancer patients in comparison with historically treated patients with conventional fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT).

Patients and Methods

Records of 463 breast cancer patients treated between January 09 and July 13 with CFRT (50 Gy/25 fr) or HFRT (42.4 Gy in 16 fractions or 40 Gy in 15 fractions) in two sequential periods were retrospectively reviewed. The analysis was done in August 2018. The primary endpoint was to compare the differences in locoregional recurrence rate.

Results

Of the 463 patients, 209 received CFRT and 254 received HFRT. The median age was 48 years (interquartile range: 40-56), premenopausal (CFRT: 23% vs. HFRT 39%, P = 0.005). The most common pathology was infiltrating ductal carcinoma (81%) with Grade III tumors (45%), estrogen receptor (+) was seen in 44%, triple-negative breast cancer in 34%, and Her2Neu (3+) were seen in 27%. Two hundred and fifty-four patients (54.5%) had undergone breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and 209 patients (45%) modified radical mastectomy (MRM). Nodal radiotherapy was delivered in 76% versus 64% in patients receiving CFRT versus HFRT, respectively (P = 0.005). With a median follow-up of 46 months in CFRT and 57 months in HFRT, 9/209 (4.3%) patients in CFRT and 7/254 (2.7%) in HFRT had locoregional relapse (LRR). The 4 years#39; actuarial local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) in CFRT versus HFRT was 95% versus 97% (P = 0.37). The mean estimated LRFS (local relapse-free survival) for CFRT is 113.4 months and for HFRT 94.2 months (P = 0.3).

Conclusions

The risk of local recurrence among patients of breast cancer treated with HFRT after BCS or MRM was not worse when compared to CFRT.

Hepatic Deficiency of Augmenter of Liver Regeneration Predisposes to Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis and Fibrosis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR) protein is critical for lipid homeostasis and mitochondrial function. We investigated high-fat/high-carbohydrate (HF/HC) diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in wild-type (WT), hepatocyte-specific ALR-knockout (ALR-H-KO), and ALR-heterozygous (ALR-H-HET) mice. ALR was measured in serum of human nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NASH-induced cirrhosis (serum and liver).

APPROACH AND RESULTS

HF/HC feeding decreased ALR expression in all groups of mice. The otherwise normal ALR-H-HET mice gained more weight and steatosis than WT mice when challenged metabolically with the HF/HC diet; ALR-H-KO mice gained the least weight and had the least steatosis. These findings were consistent with correspondingly increased triglycerides and cholesterol and altered expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a, sterol regulatory element-binding protein, acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase, and fatty acid synthase. All HF/HC-fed mice developed insulin resistance, the magnitude being lower in ALR-H-KO mice. HF/HC-fed ALR-H-HET mice were more resistant to glucose challenge than WT or ALR-H-KO mice. The frequency of tumor necrosis factor alpha-producing, interleukin 6 (IL6)-producing, and IL17-producing cells was greater in ALR-H-KO than ALR-H-HET and lowest in WT mice. HF/HC feeding did not increase their number in ALR-H-KO mice, and the increase in ALR-H-HET was greater than that in WT mice except for IL17 cells. Cluster of differentiation 25-positive (CD25⁺ ) forkhead box P3-positive CD4⁺ regulatory T-cell frequency was lower in ALR-H-HET than WT mice and further reduced in ALR-H-KO mice; HF/HC reduced regulatory T-cell frequency only in WT mice. HF/HC-fed ALR-H-HET, but not WT, mice developed fibrosis; and ALR-H-KO mice progressed to cirrhosis. White adipose tissue of HF/HC-fed ALR-deficient mice developed strong inflammation, indicating bidirectional interactions with the liver. Hepatic and serum ALR levels were significantly reduced in patients with NASH-cirrhosis. Serum ALR was also significantly lower in patients with NASH.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic ALR deficiency may be a critical predisposing factor for aggressive NAFLD progression.

Lipopolysaccharide Reverses Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation Through Modulation of cMyb, Small Mothers Against Decapentaplegic, and CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein C/EBP Transcription Factors

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

During liver injury, quiescent hepatic stellate cells (qHSCs) transdifferentiate into proliferative and fibrogenic activated myofibroblastic phenotype (activated hepatic stellate cell; aHSCs) expressing smooth muscle α-actin (αSMA) and platelet-derived growth factor beta receptor (PDGFβR). Their interactions with gut-derived bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are implicated in hepatic fibrogenesis. However, LPS can also attenuate fibrogenic characteristics of aHSCs.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

We examined molecular mechanisms of antifibrogenic effects of LPS on aHSCs in vitro and in vivo. Culture-activated rat HSCs were exposed to 0-100 ng/mL of LPS or its active component, diphosphoryl-lipid A (DPLA), and parameters of fibrosis and inflammatory cytokines/chemokines were determined by qRT-PCR, western, and immunohistochemical analyses. In vivo, HSCs were activated by repeated CCl₄ administration to rats every 3 days for 3 or 8 weeks, then challenged with LPS (5 mg/kg; IP). HSCs were isolated 24 hours later, and fibrogenic/inflammatory parameters were analyzed. LPS induced phenotypic changes in aHSCs (rounding, size reduction) and loss of proliferation. LPS down-regulated expression of αSMA, PDGFβR, transforming growth factor beta receptor 1 (TGFβR1), collagen 1α1 (Col1α1), and fibronectin while up-regulating tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 expression. LPS did not increase peroxisome proliferation-activated receptor gamma expression or lipid accumulation typical of qHSCs. DPLA elicited the same effects as LPS on aHSCs, indicating specificity, and monophosphoryl lipid A down-regulated fibrogenic markers, but elicited very weak inflammatory response. LPS down-regulated the expression of cMyb, a transcription factor for αSMA, and up-regulated small mother against decapentaplegic (SMAD)7 and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP)δ, the transcriptional inhibitors of Col1α1 expression. In vivo LPS treatment of aHSCs inhibited their proliferation, down-regulated PDGFβR, αSMA, TGFβR1, Col1α1, and cMyb expression, and increased expression of SMAD7, C/EBPα, and C/EBPδ.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, LPS induces a unique phenotype in aHSCs associated with down-regulation of key fibrogenic mechanisms and thus may have an important role in limiting fibrosis.

Over-expression of Caj1, a plasma membrane associated J-domain protein in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, stabilizes amino acid permeases

Hsp70: J-domain protein (JDP) machines, along with the cellular protein degradation systems play a central role in regulating cellular proteostasis. An equally robust surveillance system operates at the plasma membrane too that affects proper sorting, stability as well as the turnover of membrane proteins. Although plausible, a definitive role of the Hsp70: JDP machine in regulating the stability of plasma membrane proteins is not well understood in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Here we show that a moderate over-expression of Caj1, one of the thirteen JDPs residing in the nucleo-cytosolic compartment of S. cerevisiae reduced the cold sensitivity of tryptophan auxotrophic yeast cells by stabilizing tryptophan permeases, Tat1 and Tat2 in a J-domain dependent manner. Concomitantly, higher Caj1 levels also caused slow growth and increased plasma membrane damage at elevated temperatures possibly due to the stabilization of thermolabile plasma membrane proteins. Finally, we show that although majorly cytosolic, Caj1 also co-localizes with the membrane dye FM4-64 at the cellular periphery suggesting that Caj1 might interact with the plasma membrane. Based on the results presented in this study, we implicate the Hsp70: Caj1 chaperone machine in regulating the stability or turnover of plasma membrane proteins in budding yeast.

Attenuation of Allergen-, IL-13-, and TGF-α-induced Lung Fibrosis after the Treatment of rIL-15 in Mice

Endogenous IL-15 deficiency promotes lung fibrosis; therefore, we examined the effect of induced IL-15 in restricting the progression of lung fibrosis. Our objective in this work was to establish a novel therapeutic molecule for pulmonary fibrosis. Western blot, qPCR, and ELISA were performed on the lung tissues of IL-15-deficient mice, and recombinant IL-15 (rIL-15)-treated CC10-IL-13 and CC10-TGF-α mice, and allergen-challenged CC10-IL-15 mice were examined to establish the antifibrotic effect of IL-15 in lung fibrosis. We show that endogenous IL-15 deficiency induces baseline profibrotic cytokine and collagen accumulation in the lung, and pharmacological delivery of rIL-15 downregulates Aspergillus antigen-induced lung collagen, the profibrotic cytokines IL-13 and TGF-β1, and α-SMA⁺ and FSP1⁺ cells in mice. To confirm that overexpression of IL-15 diminishes pulmonary fibrosis, we generated CC10-rtTA-tetO7-IL-15 transgenic mice and challenged them with Aspergillus antigen. Aspergillus antigen-challenged, doxycycline (DOX)-treated CC10-IL-15 transgenic mice exhibited decreased collagen accumulation, profibrotic cytokine (IL-13 and TGF-β1) expression, and α-SMA⁺ and FSP1⁺ cells compared with IL-15-overexpressing mice not treated with DOX. Additionally, to establish that the antifibrotic effect of IL-15 is not limited to allergen-induced fibrosis, we showed that rIL-15 or IL-15 agonist treatment restricted pulmonary fibrosis even in CC10-IL-13 and CC10-TGF-α mice. Mechanistically, we show that T-helper cell type 17 suppressor IL-15-responsive RORγ⁺ T regulatory cells are induced in DOX-treated, allergen-challenged IL-15-overexpressing mice, which may be a novel pathway for restricting progression of pulmonary fibrosis. Taken together, our data establishes antifibrotic activity of IL-15 that might be a novel therapeutic molecule to combat the development of pulmonary fibrosis.

Interplay of oxidative stress and antioxidant bio markers in oil adjuvant Brucella melitensis vaccinated and challenged mice

The intracellular nature of Brucella leads to rise in oxidative stress due to bacterial invasion, particularly at the site of predilection spleen and lymph nodes. The present study aimed to evaluate the erythrocytic and tissue specific oxidative stress responses induced during oil adjuvant killed Brucella melitensis vaccination. The results of the study clearly implicated a significant increase in level of catalase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and lipid peroxidation (LPO), and total protein content in erythrocytes after vaccination. The activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) was unaltered during the period of experiment. The catalase activity and GSH content was significantly increased in lung and spleen tissues. The tissues GST levels increased significantly in all tissues, while tissue SOD level increased significantly only in lung tissues. Thus, it can be inferred that oil adjuvant based Brucella vaccine induces negligible signs of inflammatory pathophysiology and supports the development of significant level of protection against virulent Brucella challenge.

Intestinal overexpression of IL-18 promotes eosinophils-mediated allergic disorders

Baseline eosinophils reside in the gastrointestinal tract; however, in several allergic disorders, excessive eosinophils accumulate in the blood as well in the tissues. Recently, we showed in vitro that interleukin (IL)-18 matures and transforms IL-5-generated eosinophils into the pathogenic eosinophils that are detected in human allergic diseases. To examine the role of local induction of IL-18 in promoting eosinophil-associated intestinal disorders, we generated enterocyte IL-18-overexpressing mice using the rat intestinal fatty acid-binding promoter (Fabpi) and analysed tissue IL-18 overexpression and eosinophilia by performing real-time polymerase chain reaction, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and anti-major basic protein immunostaining. Herein we show that Fabpi-IL-18 mice display highly induced IL-18 mRNA and protein in the jejunum. IL-18 overexpression in enterocytes promotes marked increases of eosinophils in the blood and jejunum. Our analysis shows IL-18 overexpression in the jejunum induces a specific population of CD101⁺  CD274⁺ tissue eosinophils. Additionally, we observed comparable tissue eosinophilia in IL-13-deficient-Fabpi-IL-18 mice, and reduced numbers of tissue eosinophils in eotaxin-deficient-Fabpi-IL-18 and IL-5-deficient-Fabpi-IL-18 mice compared with Fabpi-IL-18 transgenic mice. Notably, jejunum eosinophilia in IL-5-deficient-Fabpi-IL-18 mice is significantly induced compared with wild-type mice, which indicates the direct role of induced IL-18 in the tissue accumulation of eosinophils and mast cells. Furthermore, we also found that overexpression of IL-18 in the intestine promotes eosinophil-associated peanut-induced allergic responses in mice. Taken together, we provide direct in vivo evidence that induced expression of IL-18 in the enterocytes promotes eotaxin-1, IL-5 and IL-13 independent intestinal eosinophilia, which signifies the clinical relevance of induced IL-18 in eosinophil-associated gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs) to food allergens.

Bacillus clausii UBBC-07 reduces severity of diarrhoea in children under 5 years of age: a double blind placebo controlled study

Acute diarrhoea is one of the leading causes of mortality in infants and young children. Evidence suggests that probiotics can reduce diarrhoea duration. As the effects of probiotics are strain specific, the effect of Bacillus clausii UBBC-07, a safe probiotic strain in the treatment of acute diarrhoea in children was studied. The double blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel group multicentric study was conducted at two outpatient facility sites in Lucknow, India. Children aged six months to five years suffering from acute diarrhoea, were randomly assigned to receive either probiotic (B. clausii UBBC-07) spore suspension or placebo suspension twice daily apart from oral rehydration solution (ORS). The duration of treatment was for five days with a follow -up until the 10^th day. Outcomes evaluated were duration and frequency of diarrhoea, consistency of stool, fever and vomiting. The duration of diarrhoea was significantly shorter (P<0.05) in patients who received B. clausii suspension (75.66±13.23 h) than in placebo treated group (81.6±15.43 h). The average daily number of stools (frequency) was 8.67±3.42 at baseline in treatment group receiving B. clausii and 8.53±3.19 in placebo group. By day 4, there was a significant reduction (P<0.01) in frequency of stools in probiotic treated group (3.46±0.66) as compared to placebo group (4.57±1.59). Improvement in stool consistency was also observed in the probiotic treated group as compared to the placebo group. There was no effect on vomiting and duration of fever. B. clausii UBBC-07 significantly decreased the duration and frequency of diarrhoea as compared to placebo indicating effectiveness of strain in the treatment of acute diarrhoea in children and could be a safe alternative to antibiotics.

Purification, developmental expression, and in silico characterization of α-amylase inhibitor from Echinochloa frumentacea

Barnyard (Echinochloa frumentacea) and finger (Eleusine coracana) millet growing at northwestern Himalaya were explored for the α-amylase inhibitor (α-AI). The mature seeds of barnyard millet variety PRJ1 had maximum α-AI activity which increases in different developmental stage. α-AI was purified up to 22.25-fold from barnyard millet variety PRJ1. Semi-quantitative PCR of different developmental stages of barnyard millet seeds showed increased levels of the transcript from 7 to 28 days. Sequence analysis revealed that it contained 315 bp nucleotide which encodes 104 amino acid sequence with molecular weight 10.72 kDa. The predicted 3D structure of α-AI was 86.73% similar to a bifunctional inhibitor of ragi. In silico analysis of 71 α-AI protein sequences were carried out for biochemical features, homology search, multiple sequence alignment, phylogenetic tree construction, motif, and superfamily distribution of protein sequences. Analysis of multiple sequence alignment revealed the existence of conserved regions NPLP[S/G]CRWYVV[S/Q][Q/R]TCG[V/I] throughout sequences. Superfam analysis revealed that α-AI protein sequences were distributed among seven different superfamilies.

Regulatory effects of IL-15 on allergen-induced airway obstruction

BACKGROUND

Airway obstruction is a physiologic feature of asthma, and IL-15 might have an important role in asthma pathogenesis.

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypothesis that regulation of IL-15 is critical for preservation of allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), airway resistance, and compliance in response to methacholine.

METHODS

Airway inflammation, AHR, resistance, and compliance were assessed in Il15 gene-deficient mice and IL-15-overexpressing mice in an allergen-induced murine model of asthma. We assessed eosinophil numbers by using anti-major basic protein immunostaining, goblet cell hyperplasia by using periodic acid-Schiff staining, and cytokine and chemokine levels by performing quantitative PCR and ELISA.

RESULTS

We made a novel observation that IL-15 deficiency promotes baseline airway resistance in naive mice. Moreover, rIL-15 delivery to the lung downregulates expression of proinflammatory cytokines and improves allergen-induced AHR, airway resistance, and compliance. These observations were further validated in doxycycline-inducible CC10-IL-15 bitransgenic mice. Doxycycline-exposed, Aspergillus species extract-challenged CC10-IL-15 bitransgenic mice exhibited significantly reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) and decreased goblet cell hyperplasia. Airway obstruction, including AHR and airway resistance, was diminished in allergen-challenged doxycycline-exposed compared with non-doxycycline-exposed CC10-IL-15 bitransgenic mice. Mechanistically, we observed that IL-15-mediated protection of airway obstruction is associated with induced IFN-γ- and IL-10-producing regulatory CD4+CD25+ forkhead box p3 (Foxp3)+ T cells. Additionally, we found that a human IL-15 agonist (ALT-803) improved airway resistance and compliance in an experimental asthma model.

CONCLUSION

We report our novel finding that IL-15 has a potent inhibitory effect on the airway obstruction that occurs in response to environmental allergens.

Role of eosinophils in the initiation and progression of pancreatitis pathogenesis

Eosinophilic pancreatitis (EP) is reported in humans; however, the etiology and role of eosinophils in EP pathogenesis are poorly understood and not well explored. Therefore, it is interesting to examine the role of eosinophils in the initiation and progression of pancreatitis pathogenesis. Accordingly, we performed anti-major basic protein immunostaining, chloroacetate esterase, and Masson's trichrome analyses to detect eosinophils, mast cells, and collagen in the tissue sections of mouse and human pancreas. Induced eosinophils accumulation and degranulation were observed in the tissue sections of human pancreatitis, compared with no eosinophils in the normal pancreatic tissue sections. Similarly, we observed induced tissue eosinophilia along with mast cells and acinar cells atrophy in cerulein-induced mouse model of chronic pancreatitis. Additionally, qPCR and ELISA analyses detected induced transcript and protein levels of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines, chemokines like IL 5, IL-18, eotaxin-1, eotaxin-2, TGF-β1, collagen-1, collagen-3, fibronectin, and α-SMA in experimental pancreatitis. Mechanistically, we show that eosinophil-deficient GATA1 and endogenous IL-5-deficient mice were protected from the induction of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines, chemokines, tissue eosinophilia, and mast cells in a cerulein-induced murine model of pancreatitis. These human and experimental data indicate that eosinophil accumulation and degranulation may have a critical role in promoting pancreatitis pathogenesis including fibrosis. Taken together, eosinophil tissue accumulation needs appropriate attention to understand and restrict the progression of pancreatitis pathogenesis in humans. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study for the first time shows that eosinophils accumulate in the pancreas and promote disease pathogenesis, including fibrosis in earlier reported cerulein-induced experimental models of pancreatitis. Importantly, we show that GATA-1 and IL-5 deficiency protects mice form the induction of eosinophil active chemokines, and profibrotic cytokines, including accumulation of tissue collagen in an experimental model of pancreatitis. Additionally, we state that cerulein-induced chronic pancreatitis is independent of blood eosinophilia.

Interleukin-18 has an Important Role in Differentiation and Maturation of Mucosal Mast Cells

A significant amount of correlational evidence has linked increased levels of IL-18 with allergic diseases in both human and animal models, and, as mast cells are major mediators of allergies, we hypothesized that IL-18 may have a role in mast cell biology. Rationale for our hypothesis is based on the evidence that IL-3 deficient mice are not devoid of mast cells, even though IL-3 is a major differentiation and growth factor for mast cells. Accordingly, we cultured IL-18 responsive bone marrow CD34+ cells in vitro under a variety of conditions and cytokine combinations to examine mast cell differentiation and maturation using flow cytometry, quantitative PCR,and immunostaining techniques. Additionally, in vivo mast cell transformation and maturation were also analysed using endogenous IL-18 gene-deficient or Fabpi-IL-18 overexpressed mice. Our data indicate that both IL-3 and IL-18 exposed CD34+ bone marrow precursors differentiate and mature into mast cells. Further, we observed that IL-18 differentiates mast cells independent of IL-3, as pharmacologic blockade of IL-3 does not prevent in vitro IL-18-driven mast cell differentiation. Further, we found that endogenous IL-18 deficiency restricts maturation of IL-3 generated mast cells and IL-18 derived mast cells require IL-3 for their survival. Additionally, we observed IL-18 intestinal overexpression promotes tissue mast cell proliferation and mucosal mast cell development. Taken together, we provide the evidence that IL-18 has an important contributory role in mast cell differentiation, maturation and in vivo development of mucosal mast cells. Therefore, IL-18 may represent a future pharmacologic target for treating mast cell-mediated allergic diseases.

Intestinal overexpression of interleukin (IL)-15 promotes tissue eosinophilia and goblet cell hyperplasia

Interleukin (IL)-15 overexpression in eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders is reported, but IL-15's role in promoting eosinophilic gastroenteritis is largely unknown. Therefore, we generated enterocyte-overexpressed IL-15 transgenic mice using Fabpi promoter. The Fabpi-IL-15 (iIL-15) transgenic mice showed induced IL-15 levels in the jejunum with a marked increase in jejunum eosinophils. However, no induction of eosinophilia in the blood or any other gastrointestinal segment was observed. Eosinophilia in the jejunum villus was substantially higher in iIL-15 mice compared to wild-type mice. In addition, goblet cell hyperplasia was also observed in the jejunum of iIL-15 mice. Furthermore, a significant correlation between induced IL-15 transcript and the IL-18 transcripts was observed. Therefore, to further understand the role of IL-18 in IL-15 mice associated gastrointestinal disorders, we generated iIL-15/IL-18Rα^-/- mice. Using these mice, we found that IL-18 has an important role in promoting IL-15-induced eosinophilia. As intestinal IL-15 overexpression is reported in food intolerance, we examined OVA intolerance in iIL-15 mice. The OVA-sensitized and challenged iIL-15 mice experienced weight loss, diarrhea and eosinophilia in the jejunum. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that intestinal IL-15 overexpression induces IL-18-dependent eosinophilia and immunoglobulins in the intestine that promotes food allergic responses.

Food-Induced Acute Pancreatitis

Food allergy, a commonly increasing problem worldwide, defined as an adverse immune response to food. A variety of immune-related effector cells such as mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, and T cells are involved in food-related allergic responses categorized as IgE mediated, non-IgE mediated, and mixed (IgE and non-IgE) depending upon underlying immunological mechanisms. The dietary antigens mainly target the gastrointestinal tract including pancreas that gets inflamed due to food allergy and leads acute pancreatitis. Reports indicate several food proteins induce pancreatitis; however, detailed underlying mechanism of food-induced pancreatitis is unexplored. The aim of the review is to understand and update the current scenario of food-induced pancreatitis. A comprehensive literature search of relevant research articles has been performed through PubMed, and articles were chosen based on their relevance to food allergen-mediated pancreatitis. Several cases in the literature indicate that acute pancreatitis has been provoked after the consumption of mustard, milk, egg, banana, fish, and kiwi fruits. Food-induced pancreatitis is an ignored and unexplored area of research. The review highlights the significance of food in the development of pancreatitis and draws the attention of physicians and scientists to consider food allergies as a possible cause for initiation of pancreatitis pathogenesis.

Significance of Eosinophils in Promoting Pancreatic malignancy

Background

Several reports indicate that eosinophils are induced in chronic pancreatitis including patients with pancreatic malignancy. However, significance of eosinophilic pancreatitis (EP) is poorly understood and unexplored.

Aim

Accumulation and degranulation of eosinophils promote pancreatic fibrosis and malignancy.

Method

Human pancreatic tissue biopsy samples including chronic pancreatitis (n=3), malignant (n=4), non-malignant (n=3), and normal (n=3) were used for H&E, anti-MBP staining, anti-tryptase staining, anti-IgE staining and Mason's trichrome staining.

Results

We show induced eosinophils and degranulated eosinophils indicated by the presence of anti-MBP stained extracellular granules in the malignant pancreatic (pancreatic cancer) and non-malignant human pancreatic tissues. A comparable number of eosinophils were observed in non-malignant and malignant pancreatic tissue sections, but the sections differed in degranulated eosinophils and the presence of extracellular granules. Additionally, induced mast cells and tissue-specific IgE positive cells were also detected in the tissue sections of malignant pancreatitis patients compared to non-malignant human pancreatic patients. Tissue-specific IgE induction is critical for the degranulation of eosinophils and mast cells that may lead to increased accumulation of collagen in malignant compared to non-malignant human pancreatic tissue samples. We show a large number of anti-tryptase stained extracellular granules in the tissue sections of malignant pancreatic cancer patients. Both IgE and eosinophil major basic proteins (MBP) are reported for the activation and degranulation of mast cells in tissues.

Conclusion

Taken together, our investigation concludes that eosinophils and mast cells accumulation and degranulation are critical in promoting pancreatitis pathogenesis that may lead to the development of pancreatic fibrosis and malignancy.

Neuroendocrine cells derived chemokine vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in allergic diseases

Worldwide increase incidences of allergic diseases have heightened the interest of clinicians and researchers to understand the role of neuroendocrine cells in the recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells. Several pieces of evidence revealed the association of neuropeptides in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. Importantly, one such peptide that is secreted by neuronal cells and immune cells exerts a wide spectrum of immunological functions as cytokine/chemokine is termed as Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP). VIP mediates immunological function through interaction with specific receptors namely VPAC-1, VPAC-2, CRTH2 and PAC1 that are expressed on several immune cells such as eosinophils, mast cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes; therefore, provide the basis for the action of VIP on the immune system. Additionally, VIP mediated action varies according to target organ depending upon the presence of specific VIP associated receptor, involved immune cells and the microenvironment of the organ. Herein, we present an integrative review of the current understanding on the role of VIP and associated receptors in allergic diseases, the presence of VIP receptors on various immune cells with particular emphasis on the role of VIP in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis. Being crucial signal molecule of the neuroendocrine-immune network, the development of stable VIP analogue and/or antagonist may provide the future therapeutic drug alternative for the better treatment of these allergic diseases. Taken together, our current review summarizes the current understandings of VIP biology and further explore the significance of neuroendocrine cells derived VIP in the recruitment of inflammatory cells in allergic diseases that may be helpful to the investigators for planning the experiments and accordingly predicting new therapeutic strategies for combating allergic diseases. Summarized graphical abstract will help the readers to understand the significance of VIP in allergic diseases.

Impact of feeding chromium supplemented flaxseed based diet on fatty acid profile, oxidative stability and other functional properties of broiler chicken meat

A total of 240 broiler chicken of same hatch with uniform weight were used in a biological experiment with completely randomized design to investigate the effects of incorporating organic chromium (Cr) in flaxseed meal based diet on the fatty acid profile, oxidative stability and functional properties of broiler chicken meat. Five diets were formulated as per the recommendations of BIS (Nutrient requirements for poultry 13: 9863, Bureau of Indian Standards, New Delhi, 1992) in which flaxseed meal was used to replace 10% of soyabean in basal diet and four levels of Cr (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg diet) as Cr-picolinate were used. The results revealed that flaxseed feeding significantly increased the percentage of unsaturated fatty acids, including MUFA, PUFA, ω-3, ω-6 fatty acids and ω-3:ω-6 and PUFA:SFA ratios, whereas, significant decline was seen in saturated fatty acids and no effect of Cr was observed on the fatty acid profile of broiler chicken. Flaxseed feeding significantly reduced the cholesterol and fat percentage of meat, whereas, significant progressive reduction was observed with increasing Cr levels. The combination of 10% flaxseed with 1.0 mg Cr/kg diet increased the final pH of broiler meat. The addition of flaxseed significantly reduced water holding capacity, extract release volume and antioxidant potential of broiler meat, whereas, increasing Cr supplementation progressively increased them. Flaxseed feeding significantly increased the drip loss and lipid peroxidation of broiler meat, whereas, Cr supplementation decreased them. It was concluded that inclusion of 10% flaxseed and 1.5 mg Cr/kg diet results in desirable fatty acid profile, oxidative stability and functional properties of broiler chicken meat.

Mechanistic role of eosinophils in the initiation and progression of pancreatitis pathogenesis

Several clinical reports indicated that IL-18 and eosinophils are induced in patient with chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic malignancy. However, the etiology and pathogenesis of eosinophilic pancreatitis (EP) is poorly understood and termed as rare disease. Accordingly, we tested the hypothesis that IL-18 and IL-5 synergy may be critical in promoting EP pathogenesis. We performed qPCR, ELISA, western blot, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical analyses to detect eosinophils, mast cells, collagen, associated cytokines and chemokines in experimental and human pancreatitis. Herein, we show the evidence of tissue eosinophilic microabscesses, mast cells and collagen accumulation in non-malignant and malignant human pancreatitis. Additionally, we observed more prominent collagen accumulation, fibrotic lesions and degranulated eosinophils in malignant pancreatic tissue samples compare to non-malignant pancreatic samples. A similar characteristics such as acinar cells atrophy, increased accumulation of tissue eosinophils, mast cells and induced levels of IL-5, IL-18, Eotaxin-2, TGF-β1, Collagen-1, Collagen-3, fibronectin and α-SMA was observed in cerulein-induced chronic mouse model of pancreatitis. Mechanistically, we show that IL-5 deficiency in mice protect pancreatic pathogenesis including fibrosis in cerulein-induced mouse model of pancreatitis, indicating a critical role of eosinophils in disease pathogenesis. Taken together, our combined clinical and experimental data indicates that eosinophils accumulation and degranulation may be critical in promoting pancreatic fibrosis that may leads to pancreatic malignancy.

Adrenocortical carcinoma in children and adults: Two decades experience in a single institution

CONTEXT

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) occurring in children and adults show distinct characteristics. However, due to rarity of the disease no large series addressing this issue has been published.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to study clinico-pathologic profile and outcome of ACC in children and adults.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

Tertiary referral center. Retrospective study (January 1990-June 2011).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Forty-five patients with ACC were included; 16children (aged < 18 years) and 29 adults. Clinical details, hormonal profile, operation records, pathology reports and follow-up findings were noted and compared. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier method. Log rank test and Cox regressionan alysis were performed.

RESULTS

Mean age was 8 ± 5.7 (M: F = 1:2.1) in children and 44.4 ± 15 years (M: F = 1:1.1) in adult groups. Prevalence of functioning tumors was significantly high in children (87.5 vs. 31% P = 0.001), while prevalence of incidentalomas was high in adults (6.3 vs. 51.7% P = 0.05). Tumor stage distribution at presentation, mean diameter (10.9 vs. 13.7 cm), and weight (392.9 vs. 892.9 g) didn't differ significantly in two groups. Adults had better albeit non-significant 5 year overall survival (OS) than children (0 vs. 13%). On univariate analysis stage of disease (P = 0.008), surgical intervention (P = 0.004), Weiss score (P = 0.04) and hormonal secretion (P = 0.04) were significantly associated with OS in adults but not in children. No factor was found significant on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Except for high prevalence of functioning tumors in children, clinico-pathologic attributes and outcome of ACC in the two groups didn't differ significantly.

Abstract P1-11-07: Frozen section histology evaluation of surgical margins helps perform single step oncologically safe and cost-effective breast conservation surgery

This abstract was withdrawn by the authors.

Chronic Pancreatitis Associated Acute Respiratory Failure

Pancreatitis is a condition characterized by parenchymal inflammation of the pancreas, which is often associated with lung injury due to low level of oxygen and the condition is termed as acute pancreatitis-associated lung injury (APALI). Clinical reports indicated that ~ 20% to 50% of patients from low oxygen levels in blood with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is a severe form of acute lung injury (ALI), a pulmonary disease with impaired airflow making patients difficult to breathe. ALI is frequently observed in patients with severe acute pancreatitis. Approximately one third of severe pancreatitis patients develop acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome that account for 60% of all deaths within the first week. The major causes of ALI and ARDS are sepsis, trauma, aspiration, multiple blood transfusion, and most importantly acute pancreatitis. The molecular mechanisms of ALI and ARDS are still not well explored, but available reports indicate the involvement of several pro-inflammatory mediators including cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and chemokines [like interleukin-8 (IL-8) and macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF)], as well as macrophage polarization regulating the migration and pulmonary infiltration of neutrophils into the pulmonary interstitial tissue, causing injury to the pulmonary parenchyma. Acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome in acute pancreatitis remains an unsolved issue and needs more research and resources to develop effective treatments and therapies. However, recent efforts have tested several molecules in an experimental model and showed promising results as a treatment option. The current review summarized the mechanism that is operational in pancreatitis-associated acute respiratory failure and respiratory distress syndrome in patients and current treatment options.

The use of Lactobacillus as an alternative of antibiotic growth promoters in pigs: A review

Antibiotics, often supplemented in feed, used as a growth promoter, may cause their residual effect in animal produce and also trigger antibiotic resistance in bacteria, which is of serious concern among swine farming entrepreneurs. As an alternative, supplementing probiotics gained interest in recent years. Lactobacillus being the most commonly used probiotic agent improves growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, nutrient utilization, intestinal microbiota, gut health and regulates immune system in pigs. The characteristics of Lactobacillus spp. and their probiotic effects in swine production are reviewed here under.

Possible Noninvasive Biomarker of Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Clinical and Experimental Evidence

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) diagnosis and follow-up response to therapy is based on repeated endoscopies and histological examination for eosinophils/HPF. The procedure is invasive and risky in particular for the pediatric population. Presently, there is no highly sensitive and specific noninvasive blood test available to monitor the disease pathogenesis. Reports indicate the expression of PDL1 (CD274) on the eosinophils in allergic patients. Herein, we report that CD274-expressing and -nonexpressing eosinophils were detected in both examined pediatric and adult EoE patients. We show that CD274 expression on blood eosinophils and blood mRNA expression levels increase in the blood of EoE patients and decrease following treatment. These observations are consistent with the esophageal eosinophilia of before and after treatment in both examined patients. These two clinical and experimental analysis reports provide the possibility that the CD274 mRNA and CD274-expressing esinophil levels may be novel possible noninvasive biomarkers for EoE.

Renal transplantation: Assessment of "at risk" diabetic foot and recommendations for mitigation

We conducted a prospective study (between November 2013 and January 2015) to identify "foot at risk" in the diabetic renal transplant patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in India. Patients (151) were divided into three groups: diabetic transplant recipients (n = 42), new onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) (n = 59), and controls (nondiabetic renal transplant recipients) (n = 50). Foot neuropathy and vasculopathy were assessed by standard methods. Patients with "at risk" feet were given foot care advice. Of the 151 patients, 144 patients were male and seven were female with a male:female ratio of 20:1. Peripheral neuropathy was present among 42.9% of diabetic transplant patients, 35.6% of NODAT patients, and 12% of control patients. Vasculopathy was present in 28.6% of diabetic transplant patients, 23.7% of NODAT patients, and 2% of control patients. On multivariate analysis, patient's age, mean time interval since transplantation, and HbA1c levels were significantly associated with neuropathy, whereas the duration of diabetes and vibration perception threshold was associated with vasculopathy. After undergoing renal transplantation, a significant number of diabetic and NODAT patients has their "feet at risk" who in future may develop full-blown lesions of the diabetic foot. Proper advice to patients and information to the treating doctor helps to mitigate the risk.

Immobilization of β-glucosidase onto silicon oxide nanoparticles and augment of phenolics in sugarcane juice

Purified β-glucosidase was immobilized on SiO₂ nanoparticles with 52 % efficiency and 14.1 % yield. It had a temperature optima at 60 °C and pH optima of 5.0. Immobilized enzyme was fairly stable at 60-70 °C. After immobilization, the K_m value of β-glucosidase for p-nitrophenyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (pNPG) increased from 0.9 to 1.074 mM and V_max decreased from 3.5 to 1.513 U/mg. The immobilized enzyme showed improved storage stability at temperature 4 and 25 °C and was reusable for up to ten cycles with 70 % residual activity in pNPG and 60 % residual activity in sugarcane juice treatment. Sugarcane juice density, viscosity; surface tension etc. changed after treatment with immobilized β-glucosidase. β-Glucosidase treated sugarcane juice showed higher phenolics than untreated sugarcane juice. Caffeic acid which was absent in juice, was detected in β-glucosidase treated juice at a concentration of about 1 mg/L.

Reversion of Asthmatic Complications and Mast Cell Signalling Pathways in BALB/c Mice Model Using Quercetin Nanocrystals

The tranquillizing effects of quercetin on allergic asthma are promising, but its poor water solubility and bioavailability is still a bottleneck. In this study, an ovalbumin (OVA) sensitized BALB/c mice asthma model was used to investigate the potential of quercetin nanocrystals (nQ) on relieving asthma aggravation. The water soluble nQ was prepared by the homogenization using the high energy sonication method. X-ray diffraction data showed the formation of nQ (10-30 nm) which was in agreement with transmission electron microscopy. The nQ was found to be more stable and soluble in PBS, and sera of BALB/c mice compared to bulk quercetin. Dose dependent experiments with nQ on OVA sensitized asthma mice exhibited significant anti-asthmatic potential of nQ at much lower dose (1 mg/kg body weight) compared to bulk quercetin. The treatment of nQ remarkably resulted in reduced OVA specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) production, anaphylaxis signs and type 1 skin test. The nQ also significantly modulated the expression of Th2 cytokines like IL-4 and IL-5, which are responsible for IgE class switching and suppressed the degranulation/secretion of different chemical mediators (PGD2, mMCPT-1 Cys-L and TSLP) from activated mast cells. The levels of FcεR1, Syk, c-Yes, PI-3, p-PI-3, PLC-γ2, and p-PLC-γ2 were found to be reduced in the OVA sensitized BALB/c mice treated with nQ compared to those treated with OVA only. The results indicate that nQ alleviate pulmonary inflammation and airway hyporesponsiveness in allergic asthma at much lower dose compared to bulk quercetin and may be considered as a potential drug for the treatment of asthmatic patients.

Catalytic properties, functional attributes and industrial applications of β-glucosidases

β-Glucosidases are diverse group of enzymes with great functional importance to biological systems. These are grouped in multiple glycoside hydrolase families based on their catalytic and sequence characteristics. Most studies carried out on β-glucosidases are focused on their industrial applications rather than their endogenous function in the target organisms. β-Glucosidases performed many functions in bacteria as they are components of large complexes called cellulosomes and are responsible for the hydrolysis of short chain oligosaccharides and cellobiose. In plants, β-glucosidases are involved in processes like formation of required intermediates for cell wall lignification, degradation of endosperm’s cell wall during germination and in plant defense against biotic stresses. Mammalian β-glucosidases are thought to play roles in metabolism of glycolipids and dietary glucosides, and signaling functions. These enzymes have diverse biotechnological applications in food, surfactant, biofuel, and agricultural industries. The search for novel and improved β-glucosidase is still continued to fulfills demand of an industrially suitable enzyme. In this review, a comprehensive overview on detailed functional roles of β-glucosidases in different organisms, their industrial applications, and recent cloning and expression studies with biochemical characterization of such enzymes is presented for the better understanding and efficient use of diverse β-glucosidases.

Study of short lactation in Sahiwal cattle at organized farm

Aim:

The aim was to study the associated factors and extent of short lactations in Sahiwal cattle maintained under organized herd.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was conducted on Sahiwal cattle (n=530), utilizing 1724 lactation records with respect to lactation length (LL), spread over a period of 15 years (1997-2011), maintained at Livestock Research Center, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal. Observations of LL were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis in order to know the extent of short lactation of animals in the herd. Paternal Half sib method was used to estimate the genetic parameters, i.e., heritability, genetic, and phenotypic correlation. The influence of various non-genetic factors (season of calving, the period of calving, parity, type of calving, and season of drying) on LL was studied by least squares analysis of variance technique.

Results:

The least squares means for LL was found to be 215.83±3.08 days. Only 32.48% of total lactation records were fell in the range of 251-350 days of LL, while more than three-fourth (76%) of total observations were failed to reach the standard level of 305 milking days. LL class ranges from 251 to 300 days accommodated maximum number of observations (19.2%). The heritability estimate of LL was 0.22±0.07. Positive correlations were found between LL and service period, LL and 305 or less days milk yield, LL and calving interval; whereas dry period was negatively correlated with the LL. The least squares analysis had shown that LL was significantly (p<0.01) influenced by the period of calving, type of calving, and season of drying. Significantly higher LL (276.50±7.21 days) was found in animals calved in the first period than those calved in other periods. The cows dried during summer season had the shortest LL (188.48±7.68 days) as compared to other seasons.

Conclusion:

Present findings regarding short lactations occurrence may be alarming for the indigenous herd, demanding comprehensive study with the larger data set. Since LL was influenced by various environmental factors suggesting better managerial tools, besides special attention on the milch animals going to dry during the summer season.

P5: SYSTEMIC MASTOCYTOSIS PRESENTING AS CARDIAC TAMPONADE WITH CD25+ PERICARDIAL MAST CELLS

Purpose of Study

Case.

Methods Used

Descriptive.

Summary of Results

A 59 year old man with a history of lymphadenopathy, presented with shortness of breath and pleuritic chest pain since three days. A hyperpigmented maculopapular rash with urticaria was present along with multiple syncopal episodes and chronic diarrhea. CT scan of the abdomen in 2006 revealed lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, and osteosclerosis. Inguinal and cervical lymph node biopsies in 2006 and 2012, and two bone marrow biopsies in 2012 were negative for malignancy. In 2009, he was diagnosed with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy with an ejection fraction of 40%. Peripheral blood, lymph node, and bone marrow flow cytometry were also unrevealing. On admission, the eosinophil count on admission was 500/µL. Echocardiography showed a large pericardial effusion with impaired right ventricular filling and significant respiratory variation in transmitral flow velocity. A pericardial window was placed, with drainage of approximately 1 liter of exudative fluid. During the surgery, the patient suffered sudden hypotension requiring epinephrine infusion. Tryptase levels drawn were 115 and 154 ng/ml. Pericardial tissue showed scattered c-Kit+ and CD25+ mast cells and blood PCR showed D816V mutation in the c-KIT gene. Re-stained stomach biopsy specimens from 2006 showed two clusters of c-Kit+ and CD25+ mast cells. A bone marrow biopsy showed aggregates of c-Kit+, tryptase+, CD25+ mast cells consistent with Systemic Mastocytosis. The transient hypotension was likely due to distributive shock from mast cell degranulation. Hyperactive mast cells may have served as mediators of the inflammatory response, contributing to production of the pericardial effusion leading to tamponade.

Conclusions

SM with tamponade.

Abstract P5 Figure 1

Abstract P3-01-06: Sentinel lymph node biopsy after NACT: Results of a validation study in large/locally advanced breast cancer patients

Background:

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is the current standard of care for surgical staging of clinically node negative axilla (N0) early breast cancer patients undergoing primary surgery. SLN- identification rate (IR) of 90% and SLN- false negative rate (FNR) of 10% are considered minimum acceptable indices for SLNB. Its role in staging axillae in patients undergoing post-NACT surgery is somewhat unclear. In India, and most low-and-middle income countries, large operable breast cancers (LOBC) and locally advanced breast cancers (LABC) constitute a large proportion of breast cancer patients treated. These patients are usually are treated with NACT, followed by surgery and radiation therapy. In a prospective validation SLNB study, we investigated the accuracy of SLNB in staging post-NACT N0 axilla in a patient cohort that were LOBC or LABC at the time of initial presentation.

Methods:

Hundred consenting non-inflammatory LOBC/LABC patients (mean age 49.3+8.6; index stage T3,N0-1=21; T4b,N0-1=33; T1-3,N2a=24; T4b,N2a=22) who were N0 after NACT at time of surgery (Breast conservation surgery in 19, Mastectomy in 81) were included. Majority had Infiltrating ductal carcinoma (n=87), and grade II/III tumors (n=93); 45 were hormone receptor positive (+), 29 had HR negative (-) HER2(+); and 26 had triple negative breast cancer on IHC sub-typing. Commonest NACT regimen used was Anthracycline followed by taxanes in 83. SLNB was performed using low-cost methylene-blue and 99mTc-Antimony-colloid, which were produced in-house using well standardized protocols, with clearance of the institutional ethics committee. Irrespective of the SLN histology, a complete axillary dissection (ALND) was carried out in all. SLN-IR and SLN-FNR were calculated, comparing the histological status of the SLN and the ALND specimen. Factors predicting non-identified SLN and false negative SLN were evaluated in uni-variate and multi-variate analysis.

Results:

With a combination of methylene blue dye and radiopharmaceutical, the SLN-IR was 81%. Mean number of SLN removed was 2.4+/-1.02. Mean number of nodes removed at ALND was 13.3+/-2.2. SLN-IR varied significantly (p&lt;0.05) per index stage, and were- 90.4% in T3,N0-1; 84.4% in T4b,N0-1; 83.3% in T1-3,N2a; and 63.6% in T4bN2a. The FNR was 17.3% for the whole cohort. FNR varied significantly (p&lt;0.05) per index stage, and were- 8.3% in T3,N0-1; 14.9% in T4b,N0-1; 22.2% in T1-3,N2a; and 30% in T4bN2a. Factors found predictive of non-identified SLN were tumor stage T4b, nodal stage N2a, extra-nodal spread, and LVI. Factors found predictive of FNR SLN were tumor stage T4b, nodal stage N2a, and extra-nodal spread.

Conclusions:

Considering SLN-IR of 90% and SLN-FNR of 10% as acceptable standards, SLNB in post-NACT N0 patients undergoing surgery was not found robust in staging the axilla, with the exception of patients with index stage T3,N0-1 who had SLN-IR of 90.4% and SLN-FNR of 8.3%. Patients with (pre-NACT) skin involvement(T4b), matted axillary nodes(N2a) and LVI are fraught with high-risk of non-identification and false-negative SLNB.

Citation Format: Agarwal G, Gambhir S, Lal P, Rajan S, Krishnani N, Mishra A, SabaRetnam M, Agarwal A, Chand G, Verma AK, Mishra SK, Kumari N, Agrawal V, Kheruka SC. Sentinel lymph node biopsy after NACT: Results of a validation study in large/locally advanced breast cancer patients. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-01-06.

Pulmonary choriostoma in a case of tuberous sclerosis complex

A 52 years old lady was diagnosed to have Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) on the basis of 2 major and one minor criterion. She had family history of similar complaints in her sister and two sons. There was involvement of kidney in the form of angiomyolipoma, skin in the form of facial angiofibroma and teeth with a dental pit. She had an unusual lung involvement in the form of multiple small choristomas. Choristoma was diagnosed on transbronchial lung biopsy and was present in the form of disorganised striated muscles. The reported pulmonary manifestations of TCS i.e. lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) and multifocal micronodular pneumocyte hyperplasia (MMPH) are types of hamartomas. Hamartomas and choristomas are both types of disorganized tissue. ‘Choristoma’of lung in TSC however is not reported. Clinopathological correlation of pulmonary hamartoma and choristoma, and treatment in TSC has been discussed.

Ross River Virus (RRV) infection in horses and humans: a review

A fascinating and important arbovirus is Ross River Virus (RRV) which is endemic and epizootic in nature in certain parts of the world. RRV is a member of the genus Alphavirus within the Semliki Forest complex of the family Togaviridae, which also includes the Getah virus. The virus is responsible for causing disease both in humans as well as horses. Mosquito species (Aedes camptorhynchus and Aedes vigilax; Culex annulirostris) are the most important vector for this virus. In places of low temperature as well as low rainfall or where there is lack of habitat of mosquito there is also limitation in the transmission of the virus. Such probability is higher especially in temperate regions bordering endemic regions having sub-tropical climate. There is involvement of articular as well as non-articular cells in the replication of RRV. Levels of pro-inflammatory factors viz., tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α); interferon-gamma (IFN-γ); and macrophage chemo-attractant protein-1 (MAC-1) during disease pathogenesis have been found to be reduced. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the most advanced molecular diagnostic tool along with epitope-blocking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting RRV infection. Treatment for RRV infection is only supportive. Vaccination is not a fruitful approach. Precise data collection will help the researchers to understand the RRV disease dynamics and thereby designing effective prevention and control strategy. Advances in diagnosis, vaccine development and emerging/novel therapeutic regimens need to be explored to their full potential to tackle RRV infection and the disease it causes.

Vertebroplasty in Osteoporotic Spine Fractures: A Quality of Life Assessment

Objective:

Our goal was to perform a quantitative evaluation of the improvement in functional capacity, quality of life, mental function, reduction in drug intake and impact on hospital admissions after vertebroplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic compression fractures. The efficacy of vertebroplasty in relief of pain has been addressed in previous publications but the quantitative evaluation of improvement in quality of life has not been addressed before.

Methods:

This is a prospective study of 42 patients with 83 symptomatic vertebral fractures treated by vertebroplasty with a mean follow-up of 9.1 months. The outcome was measured by pre and postoperatively utilizing the Visual Analogue Scale, the Oswestry Disability Index, the Rolland Morris Scale for Back Pain and EuroQol-5D questionnaire (EQ-5D). The postoperative evaluations were performed at one week, one month, three month, and six month intervals thereafter.

Results:

In 34 out of 39 active patients, marked pain relief was noted (87%). The Visual Analogue Scale score improved from a mean preoperative score of 8.2 to a mean postoperative score of 2.9 (p=0.0000003) at one week follow up and 3.9 at the last follow-up. The Rolland Morris Scale for Back Pain showed a drop from a mean preoperative rating of 13 to a mean postoperative rating of 10, showing a 25% improvement (p= 0.0207). The Oswestry Disability Index preoperatively was 64.4 which improved to 43.8 postoperatively, showing a 32% improvement (p= 0.0207). The EQ-5D showed a mean preoperative index value of 0.097 and mean postoperative index value of 0.592 (p = 0.0000003). All p-values were determined by the Willcoxin sign-ranked test.

Conclusion:

Vertebroplasty is a safe and efficacious procedure with a resulting improvement in pain and quality of life.

A study of elderly unnatural deaths in medico-legal autopsies at Lucknow locality

The main aim of this study was to determine the causes and epidemiological aspects of unnatural deaths in the elderly. Data were collected on 4405 male and female victims of unnatural deaths aged 50 years or more from the total number of 21,235 autopsies performed in King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India over a 5-year period, from 2008 to 2012. There were 3165 male victims and 1240 female victims. Unnatural deaths were higher in rural (64%) than in urban (37%) areas. Accidental deaths were the most common manner of unnatural deaths (59%), followed by suicidal deaths (34%) and homicidal deaths (7%). Traumas were the most common cause of unnatural death (77.3%), followed by undetermined causes (16.6%) and toxicological causes (6.1%). The most common causes of traumatic deaths were blunt head injuries (34%) followed by stab in the chest (6%), burn (16%), blunt injuries in abdomen and chest (10%), firearm injuries in the head and trunk (9%), strangulation (3%), stab in the abdomen (4%), smothering (4%), cut throat (3%), throttling (1%) and hanging (10%). Carbamate poisoning was the most common cause of toxicological deaths (44%) followed by organophosphorous poisoning (33%), ethyl alcohol poisoning (12%), barbiturate poisoning (3%) and zinc phosphide poisoning (8%).