Effects of household bleach on sputum smear microscopy to concentrate acid fast bacilli for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major public health problem among contagious diseases in Pakistan. TB diagnosis mainly depends on sputum smear microscopy. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of household bleach on sputum smear microscopy to concentrate acid fast bacilli for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. Sputum specimens of 200 suspected TB patients were collected for the study. Smears were prepared from the purulent part of sputum sample before and after bleach treatment, heat fixed and stained with the ZN technique. The obtained data were analyzed by chi-squared test using SPSS software. Out of 200 isolates, 22 (11%) patients had positive smears for acid fast bacilli (AFB) by direct ZN staining. After treatment with household bleach (NaOCL) and centrifugation, the number of AFB positive patients were increased from 22 (11%) to 37 (18.5%). The bleach-concentration method for sputum samples significantly increased the TB detection rate as compared to direct sputum smear microscopy. Thus, a shift from direct sputum microscopy to bleach-concentration technique should be considered a better method for detection of AFB in sputum through smear microscopy.

Assessment of potential interaction between simvastatin and clarithromycin in healthy adult male subjects

Cardiac patients with weak immune system are susceptible to bacterial infections. Their prescriptions frequently contain simvastatin and clarithromycin together. The objective of present project was to assess the potential interaction between simvastatin and clarithromycin by evaluating the clarithromycin effects on the pharmacokinetics of simvastatin in healthy adult male subjects. The study design comprised of two phases, used at interval of one week. In first phase simvastatin 20 mg alone was administered to each volunteer. In second phase, co-administration of simvastatin 20 mg with clarithromycin 250 mg was made under similar specified conditions. Blood samples were collected at specified time intervals. Simvastatin plasma concentrations were analyzed through High Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV detector at 238 nm wavelength. Using one compartment open model, MW/PHARM version 3.02 software program was used by F. Rombut for pharmacokinetic parameters calculation. Clarithromycin co-treatment resulted in 2.3 fold increase in maximum plasma concentration Cmax (from 2.47±0.34 ng.mL^-1 to 5.66±1.18 ng.mL^-1; p<0.05) and 3.9 fold increase in area under time versus concentration curve from 0 to 10 hours AUC_0-10 (from 15.10±3.73 ng.hr.mL^-1 to 58.49±15.73 ng.hr.mL^-1; p<0.05) of simvastatin. These results suggest that co-prescription of simvastatin and clarithromycin should be avoided to minimize the adverse events resulting from high simvastatin concentration, without sacrificing therapeutic worth of simvastatin.

Disposition kinetics of omeprazole in healthy female volunteers in Faisalabad

Omeprazole (OMP) a proton pump inhibitor is widely used to suppress gastric acid secretions of parietal cells of stomach and metabolized predominantly by CYP2C19. The objective of the present study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics and dosage regimen of OMP, after its single oral administration in eight healthy adult female subjects. Blood samples were collected at different time intervals after oral administration and their pH was measured. Plasma concentration of OMP was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system equipped with UV-visible Detector. The concentration versus time data was used to compute the pharmacokinetic parameters with the help of computer software programme MW/PHRAM APO version 3.02.Peak plasma concentration was (C_max) 0.38±0.04 μg/ml achieved at 2.07±0.22 hrs. The elimination half-life (t_1/2 β) was1.82 ± 0.42 hrs. Volume of distribution (Vd) in the present study was 0.40 ± 0.07 l/kg with total body clearance (Cl_B) 0.19 ± 0.02 l/hr/kg and area under the curve (AUC) 1.89 ± 0.23 μg.hr/ml.The pharmacokinetic properties which are different from the literature after oral administration of 20 mg OMP in eight healthy female volunteers may be due to the variations of environment and genetic variation between Pakistan and drug manufacturing of foreign countries.

Enhanced blood brain barrier permeability and glioblastoma cell targeting via thermoresponsive lipid nanoparticles

Thermoresponsive targeting is used to deliver therapeutic agents at hyperthermic conditions (39-45 °C). However, available thermoresponsive drug delivery systems (TDDS), including liposomes, have a complex method of preparation involving toxic solvents and reagents. The objective of this in vitro study was to prepare and characterize thermoresponsive lipid nanoparticles (TLN) for treating glioblastoma, the most aggressive brain tumor whose treatment is limited by a low blood brain barrier (BBB) permeability of drugs. Thermoresponsive lipids were prepared by mixing liquid and solid fatty acids (0.1 : 1 to 2 : 1 ratio) and lipid mixtures exhibiting a solid-liquid phase transition at 39 °C were identified by plotting melting point against liquid contents. TLN were prepared by a hot melt encapsulation method using mono- or double-surfactant systems. TLN showed desirable size (<270 nm), zeta potential (-35 to -50 mV), spherical morphology and stability by FTIR studies. In the drug release studies, paclitaxel release was slow at 37 °C, however, it was released abruptly at 39 °C due to the faster diffusion rate from liquid state nanoparticles. During cytotoxicity studies, the unloaded TLN were non-toxic whereas paclitaxel loaded TLN showed higher cytotoxicity to glioblastoma cells at 39 °C (69% cell viability after one hour) compared to 37 °C (82% cell viability). The TLN showed higher permeability across an in vitro model of BBB at 39 °C due to a deformable liquid state which can squeeze through the tight junctions of the BBB. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the TLN can be used as a safe and effective alternative to traditional TDDS with higher potential to target glioblastoma cells across the BBB.

Where technology does not go: specialised neonatal care in resource-poor and conflict-affected contexts

Setting: Although neonatal mortality is gradually decreasing worldwide, 98% of neonatal deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where hospital care for sick and premature neonates is often unavailable. Médecins Sans Frontières Operational Centre Brussels (MSF-OCB) managed eight specialised neonatal care units (SNCUs) at district level in low-resource and conflict-affected settings in seven countries. Objective: To assess the performance of the MSF SNCU model across different settings in Africa and Southern Asia, and to describe the set-up of eight SNCUs, neonate characteristics and clinical outcomes among neonates from 2012 to 2015. Design: Multicentric descriptive study. Results: The MSF SNCU model was characterised by an absence of high-tech equipment and an emphasis on dedicated nursing and medical care. Focus was on the management of hypothermia, hypoglycaemia, feeding support and early identification/treatment of infection. Overall, 11 970 neonates were admitted, 41% of whom had low birthweight (<2500 g). The main diagnoses were low birthweight, asphyxia and neonatal infections. Overall mortality was 17%, with consistency across the sites. Chances of survival increased with higher birthweight. Conclusion: The standardised SNCU model was implemented across different contexts and showed in-patient outcomes within acceptable limits. Low-tech medical care for sick and premature neonates can and should be implemented at district hospital level in low-resource settings.

Determination of florfenicol residues in broiler meat and liver samples using RP-HPLC with UV-visible detection

BACKGROUND

Broilers are vulnerable to various types of microorganisms, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, resulting in multiple infections. Broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs such as florfenicol (FF) are widely used in the treatment of such infections. Suspected residues of these drugs in body tissues of treated birds can be passed to humans through meat consumption and thus lead to serious ill effects on human health. The present study was designed to estimate the presence of FF residues in broiler meat and liver samples.

RESULTS

The mean residual concentrations of FF in broiler meat and liver samples were 311.42 ± 186.56 and 2585.44 ± 1759.71 µg kg(-1) respectively, which are higher than their respective maximum residual limits (MRLs). The results showed that 126 and 24 samples were FF-positive and FF-negative respectively. Of the positive samples, 84 and 42 samples were above and below the MRL respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate the presence of FF residues in broiler meat and liver samples. Usage of this contaminated meat causes resistance in consumers and poses a public health threat. Thus there is a need to educate farmers about the ill effects of residual drugs on human health and their withdrawal times in poultry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Histopathological evaluation of gastro protective effect of Berberis vulgaris (Zereshk) seeds against aspirin induced ulcer in albino mice

The present study was carried out to investigate the antiulcer activity of Berberis vulgaris (Zereshk) seeds in albino mice. After acclimatization, animals were divided into six equal groups. Aspirin 150 mg/kg was used to induce gastric ulcer in all groups except normal control. Omeprazole 20mg/kg was used as synthetic anti ulcer drug in study. Three dose levels of B. vulgaris seed powder 300 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg and 900 mg/kg were used respectively orally. Histopathological analysis was carried out to evaluate the gastroprotective activity of B. vulgaris seed powder. Results of the study showed that in case of aspirin treated mice gastric luminal mucosa villi were decreased in height or were absent. In the glandular region there was connective tissue proliferation and also infiltration of cells. Similar infiltration of cells was present on muscularis mucosa. In esophageal region tumor cells were present. However three dose levels of B. vulgaris significantly reduced the tissue proliferation, infiltration of cells and sloughing induced by aspirin. Highest dose of B. vulgaris (900 mg/kg) showed similar results as synthetic antiulcer drug omeprazole.

Breast cancer: major risk factors and recent developments in treatment

Breast cancer is the most common in women worldwide, with some 5-10% of all cases due to inherited mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Obesity, hormone therapy and use of alcohol are possible causes and over-expression of leptin in adipose tissue may also play a role. Normally surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy allow a good prognosis where screening measures are in place. New hope in treatment measures include adjuvant therapy, neoadjuvant therapy, and introduction of mono-clonal antibodies and enzyme inhibitors.

Supplementation of dietary vitamins, protein and probiotics on semen traits and immunohistochemical study of pituitary hormones in zinc-induced molted broiler breeders

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary vitamin E and vitamin C, probiotics mixture and protein level and their combination on semen quality and immunohistochemical study of some pituitary hormones in male broiler breeders. One hundred and eighty male broiler breeders 65 weeks old were divided into six groups by completely randomized design. The birds were subjected to zinc-induced molt by mixing zinc oxide at the rate of 3000mg/kg in the feed. After molting, one group was fed control diet (CP16%). The other groups were fed vitamin E (100IU/kg), vitamin C (500IU/kg), probiotics (50mg/L of drinking water), protein (CP14%) and combination of these components. These treatments were given for five weeks. After the feeding period, semen samples were taken and analyzed for semen volume, sperm concentration, motility and dead sperm percentage. Pituitary samples were collected from three birds per replicate and were processed for immunohistochemical study. The results of semen quality parameters revealed that semen volume and sperm motility were significantly high in the vitamin E fed group, while the dead sperm percentage decreased significantly in the vitamin C group. The morphometric analysis revealed that compared to other groups, vitamin E caused a significant increase in the size and area of FSH, LH gonadotropes and lactotropes. These results showed that vitamin E alone may play some role in the enhancement of semen quality and growth of gonadotropes and lactotropes.

Ameliorative effects of L-carnitine and vitamin E (α-tocopherol) on haematological and serum biochemical parameters in White Leghorn cockerels given ochratoxin A contaminated feed

1. L-carnitine is a quaternary ammonium compound biologically synthesised from the amino acids methionine and lysine while vitamin E (α-tocopherol) is an important antioxidant. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of L-carnitine and vitamin E upon haematological and serum biochemical parameters in ochratoxin A intoxicated birds. 2. Day-old White Leghorn cockerels were acclimatised for 2 d, divided in 12 groups with 20 birds in each group. From d 3 of age, they were given different combinations of ochratoxin A (1.0 and 2.0 mg/kg), L-carnitine (1 g/kg) and vitamin E (200 mg/kg) in feed. Haematological (erythrocyte count, leucocyte count, haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit percentage) and serum biochemical parameters (serum urea, creatinine, albumin, total proteins and alanine aminotransferase) were evaluated. 3. Results confirmed that L-carnitine and vitamin E given alone or combined with 1.0 mg/kg ochratoxin A ameliorated toxin induced alterations in haematological and serum biochemical parameters. This amelioration, however, did not occur when ochratoxin of 2.0 mg/kg was given. 4. L-carnitine and vitamin E in combination have the ability to ameliorate ochratoxin altered haematological and serum biochemical parameters. However, the optimum ratio of L-carnitine + vitamin E, to be used to assure such mitigation of ochratoxin A altered changes in haematological and serum biochemical parameters in cockerels, has yet to be determined. The combination used in this study was indeed sufficient to ameliorate the alterations induced by ochratoxin A up to 1.0 mg/kg feed.

Dermatoprotective effects of some plant extracts (genus Ficus) against experimentally induced toxicological insults in rabbits

Aim:

Present study was conducted to evaluate the dermatoprotective effects of plant extracts ( Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, and Ficus racemosa) against known irritants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), atrazine, and petrol.

Methods:

The study was conducted in adult male rabbits. Ethanol extracts of plants were obtained through Soxhlet. All irritants and Ficus extracts were topically applied to the backs of rabbits daily for 4 days, while pure ethanol served as control. Skin was examined after 24, 48, and 96 h for erythema. Skin biopsies were taken on 5th day for microscopic examination.

Results:

Erythema produced by irritants reduced significantly with the simultaneous application of Ficus extracts. The mean ± SEM epidermal thickness (micrometer) with SDS was 45.40 ± 1.89, F. religiosa + SDS was 18.60 ± 0.51, F. benghalensis + SDS was 18.40 ± 0.25, F. racemosa + SDS was 18.80 ± 0.37, and mixture of three Ficus species + SDS was 16.80 ± 0.37. Similar findings were revealed after using plant extracts with atrazine and petrol. The mean ± SEM epidermal layer count for SDS was 3.60 ± 0.25, atrazine was 3.40 ± 0.25, petrol was 3.40 ± 0.25, and ethanol (control) was 1.00 ± 0.20. This count reduced to 1.20 ± 0.20 for three Ficus species + SDS, 1.40 ± 0.25 for Ficus species + atrazine, and 1.40 ± 0.25 for Ficus species + petrol.

Conclusion:

Ficus species demonstrated the potential to block the dermatotoxic effects of topical irritants and could be used successfully to prevent skin toxicity.

Amelioration of Ochratoxin A-induced immunotoxic effects by silymarin and Vitamin E in White Leghorn cockerels

Silymarin (SL) is the bioactive extract of the plant Silybum marianum and Vitamin E (VE) is an important anti-oxidant. The present study was designed to evaluate potential ameliorative effects of SL and VE against Ochratoxin A (OTA)-induced immunotoxic effects in White Leghorn cockerels. One day-old birds were divided into 12 groups (20 birds/group) and fed basal diets amended with OTA (1.0 or 2.0 mg/kg) alone or in combination with SL (10 g/kg) and/or VE (200 mg/kg) for 42 days. Immunological in situ responses, including antibody formation against sheep red blood cells (7 and 14 days after both primary and booster injections), lymphoproliferative responses to avian tuberculin (30 days of age), and mononuclear phagocytic system function (i.e. by clearance of injected carbon particles) assay (42 days of age), were assessed. Results suggested that silymarin and Vitamin E alone or in combination ameliorated the immunotoxic effects induced by 1.0 mg OTA/kg but could not significantly impact on the effect from ingestion of 2.0 mg OTA/kg. The results of the present study suggested that both SL and VE possess an ability to ameliorate OTA-induced immunotoxicity in chicks. However, it remains to be determined whether/what SL:OTA or VE:OTA ratios are required to assure such mitigation of OTA-induced immunotoxicities.

Effect of protein, probiotic, and symbiotic supplementation on serum biological health markers of molted layers

Dietary zinc was used to induce molt in 200 White Leghorn birds in caged housing at the age of 70 wk. The birds were equally and randomly allocated to 4 groups each of 50 birds as G1 (control; CP 16%, no supplement), G2 (CP 18%, no other supplement), G3 (CP 16%, symbiotic Perfectin: 85 mg•L(-1) in drinking water daily), and G4 (CP 16%, probiotic Protexin: 85 mg•L(-1) in drinking water daily) after the completion of molt. The sampling was conducted 3 times at 5% production, peak production, and end of production with 15 birds being killed at each sampling from each group to collect the blood for harvesting of serum. Serum health markers including total oxidant status, total antioxidant capacity, homocysteine concentration, and paraoxonase, arylesterase, and ceruloplasmin activity were determined by the prescribed assays. The overall total antioxidant capacity was increased, whereas total oxidant status and homocysteine concentrations were reduced significantly (P ≤ 0.01) in all the supplemented groups compared with the control. The paraoxonase and ceruloplasmin activity were enhanced (P ≤ 0.01) in the supplemented groups compared with the control, and arylesterase activity was increased (P ≤ 0.01) in only G2 compared with the other groups. Although protein supplementation significantly reduced the oxidative stress, supplementation with symbiotic and probiotic also improved the health status by decreasing the oxidative stress in the birds.

Effects of vitamins, probiotics, and protein level on semen traits and some seminal plasma macro- and microminerals of male broiler breeders after zinc-induced molting

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of vitamin E, vitamin C, probiotics, dietary protein level, and their combination on semen traits and seminal plasma macro- and microminerals in 65-week-old male broiler breeders after zinc-induced molting. One hundred eighty birds were induced to molt by mixing zinc oxide (3,000 mg/kg) in the diet. The birds were divided into six groups (five replicates) by completely randomized design. One group was kept as control (16% CP), while the other five were supplemented with vitamin E (100 IU/kg feed), vitamin C (500 IU/kg feed) probiotics (50 mg/L), protein level (14% CP), and their combination. Semen samples were weekly collected for determination of semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, and dead sperm percentage. Analyses of Na, K, Ca and Mg, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu in seminal plasma were also performed. Overall, mean semen volume was significantly high in vitamin E and C supplemented groups compared to control. Overall mean sperm motility was significantly higher in vitamin E supplemented group, whereas dead sperm percentage was significantly lower in the vitamin C group compared to control. Mineral analyses revealed that overall mean seminal plasma Mg increased significantly in vitamin E and C supplemented groups compared to control. Similarly, significantly high overall mean seminal plasma Cu concentration was observed in vitamins E and C and combination groups. It can be concluded that vitamins have a vital role in improving semen quality and bioavailability of Mg and Cu in seminal plasma of the post-molt cockerels.

Immunohistochemical localization and morphometry of somatotrophs and lactotrophs in protein, probiotic and symbiotic supplemented molted layers

Two hundred Single Comb White Leg-Horn spent hens at the age of 70 weeks were purchased from a commercial layer farm. The birds were shifted to the Poultry Research Station, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. High dietary zinc (3 g/kg feed/day) was used to induce molting in all the birds after one week of acclimatization. Thereafter, birds were divided in groups of 50 birds each, with the following treatments: G1 [control; crude protein (CP)16%, no other supplement], G2 (CP18%, no other supplement), G3 (CP16%, Symbiotic, 85 mg/L drinking water) and G4 (CP16%, Probiotic, 85 mg/L in drinking water). Fifteen birds were slaughtered at 5% of peak of production for each group to collect their pituitary glands. Better egg production was seen in all the supplemented groups as compared to the control. Especially an earlier post molt production recovery and delayed decline was seen in G2 as compared to all other groups. The immunohistochemistry of the pituitary gland reveals the decrease (P≤0.01) in the cell and nucleus size as well as area of somatotrophs in G2 and G4 as compared to G1. The cell and nucleus size as well as area of lactotrophs decreased (P≤0.01) in G2, G3 and G4 as compared to G1. The better and earlier post molt production in G2 highlights the potential role of protein supplementation in connection with the decreased lactotroph size and area in molted birds.

Effects of individual and combined administration of ochratoxin A and aflatoxin B1 in tissues and eggs of White Leghorn breeder hens

BACKGROUND

Mycotoxins, the secondary fungal metabolites, are unavoidable contaminants of human and animal food and feeds. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of concurrent feeding of ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1) ) to breeder hens, upon their deposition in different tissues and eggs.

RESULTS

Residues of OTA and AFB(1) in (ng g(-1) ) were significantly higher in liver followed by kidneys and breast muscles by 22.54 ± 1.48, 4.22 ± 0.93 and 0.56 ± 0.06 for OTA (group fed OTA at 5 mg kg(-1) diet) and 1.44 ± 0.21, 0.25 ± 0.01 and 0.03 ± 0.01 for AFB(1) (group fed AFB(1) at 5 mg kg(-1) diet), respectively. Residues of OTA and AFB(1) in eggs appeared at days 3 and 5 of toxin feeding and disappeared at days 5 and 6 of withdrawal of mycotoxins contaminated feed, respectively. The residues of OTA and AFB(1) were significantly lower in the tissues of hens fed these toxins concurrently compared with the groups fed OTA and AFB(1) independently.

CONCLUSIONS

Residues of OTA and AFB(1) appeared in the tissues and eggs of laying hens kept on OTA- and AFB(1) -contaminated diets. Concurrent feeding of OTA and AFB(1) to hens significantly decreased the concentration of OTA and AFB(1) residues in the tissues and eggs.

Lipid lowering effect of Cinnamomum zeylanicum in hyperlipidaemic albino rabbits

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the lipid lowering effect of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Cinnamon) in hyperlipidaemic albino rabbits. For this purpose, forty eight albino rabbits were randomly divided into eight equal groups; untreated control on normal routine feed, untreated control on butter and cholesterol, treated control on synthetic cholesterol lowering drug simvastatin (Tablet survive (R) 20 mg), three treated groups on three respective doses of C. zeylanicum bark powder and two treated groups on water and methanol extracts of C. zeylanicum bark powder. Butter ad lib and cholesterol powder 500 mg/kg body weight were used to induce experimental hyperlipidaemia in all groups except untreated control group. The results suggested that C. zeylanicum bark powder at the rate of 0.50 g/kg, 0.75 g/kg and methanol extract equivalent to 0.75 g/kg powder produced respective percent reductions in total lipids by 45, 49 and 64; triglycerides by 38, 53 and 60; total cholesterol by 53, 64 and 69 and LDL-cholesterol by 50, 59 and 62. However, at these dosage levels HDL-cholesterol showed respective percent increase of 42, 48 and 53. Nonetheless, C. zeylanicum bark powder at the level of 0.25g/kg and C. zeylanicum extract in water could not significantly reduce lipid profile indicators. Based on these studies, it can safely be said that C. zeylanicum bark powder methanol extract equivalent to 0.75g/kg bark powder and simvastatin (0.6 mg/kg b. wt.) were equieffective in treating hyperlipidaemia.

Toxico-Pathological Effects of In Ovo Inoculation of Ochratoxin A (OTA) in Chick Embryos and Subsequently in Hatched Chicks

This study was designed to investigate the toxico-pathological effects of in ovo inoculation of ochratoxin A (OTA) in chicken embryos and subsequently in the hatching chicks. Nine hundred fertile white leghorn (WL) layer breeder eggs were divided into eight groups (A–H). Group A was maintained as untreated control, whereas group B was kept as sham control (10 µL of 0.1 M NaHCO3 solution). Before incubation, groups C, D, E, F, G, and H were injected with 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.10, 0.50, and 1.00 µg OTA/egg, respectively. At 53 hrs of incubation, crown to rump length, optic cups, and eye lens diameters were significantly ( p ≤ .05) lower, whereas neural tube closure defects were higher in the OTA-treated embryos. Teratogenic defects (studied at day 9 of incubation) and embryonic mortalities were higher in the groups administered high doses of OTA. A significant increase was noted in the serum concentration of ALT, urea, and creatinine, along with higher weights of liver and kidney, in chicks hatched from OTA-contaminated eggs. These findings suggested that there are teratogenic and substantive toxicological risks in the developing chicken embryos and hatched chicks that could be exposed to OTA in ovo.

Immunological status of the progeny of breeder hens kept on ochratoxin A (OTA)-contaminated feed

This study aimed to evaluate the immunological status of the progeny of breeder hens kept on ochratoxin A (OTA)-contaminated feed. For this purpose, 84 White Leghorn (WL) layer breeder hens (40-weeks-of-age) were divided into seven groups (A-G). Hens in the Group A were fed a commercial layer ration while those in Groups B-G were kept on a diet amended with 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, or 10.0 mg OTA/kg, respectively, for 3 weeks. Fertile eggs were set for hatching on the weekly basis to get the progeny of each week separately. Hatched chicks (n = 10 from each group) were euthanized at Day 14 of age, and their immunological organs weighed and fixed in neutral buffered formalin. An indirect immunoperoxidase method was applied to study the frequency of immunoglobulin(s)-bearing cells in the spleen and bursa of Fabricius from these progeny. From other chicks within each set, at Day 16 of age, lymphoblastogenic responses against an intradermal administration of phytohemagglutinin (PHA-P) were determined. Relative weights of the bursa of Fabricius and of the thymus were significantly lower in the progeny of hens fed OTA-contaminated diet for 14 and 21 days. The frequencies of IgA-, IgG-, and IgM-bearing cells were also significantly (P ≤ 0.05) lower in the bursa of Fabricius and spleen of the progeny chicks obtained from dams fed the OTA-mixed diet. Progeny chicks obtained from the breeder hens fed higher doses of OTA showed significantly lower responses to PHA-P than did counterpart chicks from control hens. The findings of this study suggested that there were immunosuppressive effects from OTA in the progeny obtained from breeder hens kept on OTA-contaminated diets.

Pharmacokinetics and dosage regimen of ciprofloxacin following single intramuscular administration in Teddy goats

The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics and dosage regimen of ciprofloxacin in Teddy goats. Ciprofloxacin was administered intramuscularly at 5 mg/kg body weight in each of eight animals. Following drug administration, blood samples were collected at different time intervals and analyzed for ciprofloxacin using HPLC. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using two compartment open model. Peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of ciprofloxacin, 1.77±0.20 µg/ml was achieved at 0.90±0.04 hours (Tmax). Values for half-life of absorption (t1/2 abs), distribution (t1/2 α) and elimination (t1/2 β) were 0.52±0.04, 0.52±0.04 and 2.62±0.39 hours, respectively. The value for apparent volume of distribution (Vd) was 3.76±0.92 l/kg, area-under-the-curve (AUC) 5.89±0.91 µg.hr/ml and total body clearance (CL) was 1.09±0.11 l/hr/kg. Based on these results, it was concluded that calculated dose should be higher than the dose recommended by the manufacturer to treat susceptible bacteria in goats.

Therapeutic effects of ciprofloxacin on the pharmacokinetics of carbamazepine in healthy adult male volunteers

Carbamazepine is a (CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 enzyme inducer) medicine which is used by epileptic patients for a long time. During the course of therapy, patients are generally caught by other diseases like urinary tract infections, upper respiratory tract infection, skin and soft tissue infection etc. To cure them, physicians commonly prescribe fluoroquinolones like Ciprofloxacin (CYP1A2 inhibitor) along with Carbamazepine (CBZ). Interactions may result without recognition which may lead to unforeseen toxicity, untoward effects or even therapeutic failure. Therefore, studies were conducted to investigate the effect of Ciprofloxacin on the pharmacokinetics of carbamazepine in healthy adult male volunteers. The main objective of this study was to generate new knowledge regarding CBZ and ciprofloxacin interaction for physicians and research workers dealing with these medicines. Eight healthy adult male volunteers were selected to assess the effect of ciprofloxacin on the pharmacokinetics of carbamazepine. After overnight fast the selected male volunteers were given CBZ orally. Blood samples were drawn at different time intervals after medication. Then the same volunteers were given CBZ along with ciprofloxacin. Blood samples were again drawn at the same time intervals as done previously. Plasma was separated from the blood samples. Concentration of CBZ in the plasma samples was determined by using HPLC technique. Results of the present study indicated that ciprofloxacin significantly increased the plasma concentration of CBZ when given concurrently to the healthy adult male volunteers. Ciprofloxacin increased Cmax, AUC and t½ while it decreased the CL and Vd of CBZ when administered concurrently to the adult volunteers. Change in pharmacokinetic parameters was due to slow metabolism or elimination of CBZ when given concurrently with ciprofloxacin to the adult volunteers. This is probably due to the inhibition of CYP3A4 isoenzyme by ciprofloxacin which is responsible for metabolism of CBZ. Ciprofloxacin increased the plasma concentration of CBZ so dose adjustment as well as drug monitoring of CBZ is required when both the drugs are given concurrently. The knowledge regarding interaction between ciprofloxacin and CBZ would be helpful for the pharmaceutical industries, physicians and a blessing for the patients.

Toxico-pathological effects of sodium hypochlorite administration through drinking water in female Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

Fifty female Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) at 40 days were divided into five equal groups. Sodium hypochlorite was added in drinking water to provide 0, 25, 50, 200, 400 mg chlorine/L for 6 weeks. At week 7, the chlorine concentration of 25 and 50 mg groups was increased to 100 mg and further increased to 400, 1600 and 6400 mg at weeks 8, 9 and 10, respectively. At the end the experiment (week 10), all the birds were sacrificed. No clinical signs were observed in quail given 50 mg chlorine/L. Quail given 200-400 mg/L chlorine exhibited decreased feed intake, body weight and egg production. In addition, those given 1600-6400 mg/L chlorine also exhibited depression. Decreased hematocrit, erythrocyte, hemoglobin, leukocytes, plasma proteins and globulin were observed at 200 mg/L chlorine and higher concentration. Gross lesions were not observed in quail offered 200-400 mg/L chlorine for 6 weeks; however, those offered 1600-6400 mg/L chlorine exhibited atrophied pectoral muscles, prominently protruding keel bones, decreased weight of ovary and oviduct and a reduction in an area of the different segments of oviduct. The histopathological picture in mucosa of oviduct consisted of degenerated glandular cells. In some cases, glandular tissue was replaced by cord of cells and fibroblast. The present study suggested that sodium hypochlorite in drinking water yielding 50 mg/L chlorine was not toxic for 6 weeks. However, sodium hypochlorite providing 200 mg/L chlorine or higher concentrations in drinking water was toxic to the quail.

Dermatotoxic effects of orally administered ciprofloxacin in sweating and nonsweating animal models

CONTEXT

Some drugs, such as ciprofloxacin (CFX), that are excreted in sweat may produce some effects/toxicities in the skin structure. In order to differentiate the dermatotoxic effects of drugs due to excretion in sweat, it is essential to perform simultaneous studies in sweating and nonsweating animal models.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the dermatotoxic effects of CFX in sweating (goats) and nonsweating (rabbits) animals and to determine whether there is a relationship between dermatotoxicity and the blood CFX concentration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CFX was administered orally at the dose rate of 20 mg/kg body weight to goats (n = 16) and rabbits (n = 16) for 1 and 2 weeks, while control animals were given vehicle (water). Skin biopsies were taken after 1- and 2-week administration of CFX and processed histologically. Similarly, the CFX concentration in the plasma samples was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTS

Mean ± standard error (SE) epidermal thickness (μm) was 26.2 ± 0.2, 38.6 ± 2.05, and 37.8 ± 1.8 for the control, 1-week-treated, and 2-week-treated goats and 16.06 ± 2.39, 50.67 ± 6.61, and 34.03 ± .12 for the control, 1-week-treated, and 2-week-treated rabbits, respectively. Mean ± SE epidermal cell layers were 2.08 ± 0.08, 3.42 ± 0.16, and 3.25 ± 0.21 in the control, 1-week-treated, and 2-week-treated goats and 1 ± 0, 3.08 ± 0.37, and 1.83 ± 0.35 in the control, 1-week-treated, and 2-week-treated rabbits, respectively. Mean ± SE plasma concentration (μg/mL) of CFX was 0.37 ± 0.06 and 0.30 ± 0.05 in the 1- and 2-week-treated goats and 0.13 ± 0.04 and 0.14 ± 0.09 in the 1- and 2-week-treated rabbits, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Microscopically, increases in epidermal thickness, number of cell layers, and cell infiltration were observed in both sweating and nonsweating animals, indicating that the dermatotoxic effects may not be due to CFX excretion in sweat. No relationship was found between dermatotoxicity and blood CFX concentration in both animal models.

Somatotrophs and lactotrophs: an immunohistochemical study of Gallus domesticus pituitary gland at different stages of induced moult

The objective of this study was to determine the distribution of somatotrophs and lactotrophs and conduct a morphometrical analysis of immunoreactive somatotrophs and lactotrophs in the pituitary glands of White Leghorn Hens (Gallus domesticus) during the period of induced moult. We divided the periods of induced moulting into three phases viz. 7, 14 and 21 days. The labeled alkalinephsphatase method with anti-GH (growth hormone) and anti-PRL (prolactin) as a primary antibody was used to detect somatotrophs and lactotrophs, in the midsagital sections of chicken adenohypophysis. Immunohistochemistry showed that somatotrophs are not only confined to the cephalo-caudal axis but can also be found in the caudal lobe; while lactotrophs were distributed in both lobes of the anterior pituitary gland at all stages of moulting (7, 14 and 21 days). Lactotrophs were of different shapes but somatotrophs were oval to round in morphology. At the given stages of induced moulting, some hypertrophied lactotrophs were also present after 7 days of induced moult in the anterior pituitary gland. However, there were moulting-related changes: from 7 to 21 days of induced moulting the immunoreactive-PRL cell population decreased, while the mean lactotroph size was more than that of somatotrophs. Basic quantitative and morphological information relating to somatotrophs and lactotrophs during the period of induced moult in laying hens is reported here and the changes brought about by induced moulting are restricted to PRL positive cells rather than GH positive cells.

Quantitative structure activity relationship and risk analysis of some heavy metal residues in the milk of cattle and goat

Milk of cattle and goat was collected from various localities of Faisalabad, Pakistan. Heavy metal concentration in milk was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Milk from both of the species was found richly contaminated with cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb). Lead concentration in the milk of goat was significantly higher as compared to cattle milk. Quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) models were suggested to predict the residues of unknown heavy metals in the milk of cattle and goat using their known physicochemical properties such as molecular weight (MW), melting point (MP), and boiling point (BP) as well as the milk characteristics such as pH, % fat, and specific gravity (SG) of both of these species. The analysis revealed good correlation coefficients ( R2 = 0.759) and ( R2 = 0.876) for cattle and goat QSAR models, respectively. This analysis indicates the need to construct species specific QSAR models for residue prediction. The coefficients for SG for the studied metals were higher in both cattle and goat milk. This suggests that SG is a better determinant for heavy metal residue prediction in the milk of these animals. Risk analysis was conducted based upon the determined heavy metal residues and their provisional tolerable daily intakes. The daily intake of Cd, Cr, and Pb was found to be 1.6, 27, and 116 times higher, respectively, in cattle milk and 1.8, 29, 262 times higher respectively, in goat milk. This intake of heavy metal contaminated milk might pose health hazards to humans in this locality.

Heavy metal residues in the milk of cattle and goats during winter season

Cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) residues (mg/L) were determined in the milk of cattle and goats. The milk samples of cattle from area 1 have higher levels of residues than area 2; Cd 0.089 +/- 0.002 vs. 0.062 +/- 0.01 Cr 1.14 +/- 0.046 vs. 0.995 +/- 0.017 Ni 23.38 +/- 0.564 vs. 21.407 +/- 0.275 Pb 21.781 +/- 0.172 vs. 15.958 +/- 1.00. The residual levels of Cd (0.084 +/- 0.003) and Pb (42.687 +/- 0.051) have been found higher in goat milk. The Ni residues in cattle milk (22.395 +/- 0.988) are higher than in goat milk (19.522 +/- 0.011) while residues of Cr are non significantly different in both species.

Pathological effects of gentamicin administered intramuscularly to day-old broiler chicks

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the pathological effects of gentamicin in birds. Broiler chicks at 1 day of age were intramuscularly administered gentamicin at dose levels varying from 0 to 180 mg/kg. Clinical signs comprising of depression, decreased feed consumption, increased water intake, loose watery droppings and reduced body weights appeared in a dose-related manner in chicks administered 30 mg/kg or higher dose levels. Mortality was 0% and 20% in chicks given 40 mg and 50 mg/kg gentamicin. It increased in a dose-related manner and was 100% in 100mg/kg or higher dose groups. The LD50 calculated at total deaths in 5 weeks duration was 77.56 mg/kg. Kidneys and livers of chicks given 50mg/kg or higher doses of gentamicin were congested, enlarged and had hemorrhages on the surfaces. Microscopically kidneys exhibited acute tubular necrosis. Livers showed fatty change, vacuolar degeneration, necrotic areas and cellular infiltration around portal triads. Serum total proteins and albumin decreased while creatinine and ALT increased in chicks given 20mg/kg and higher doses. The no observable effect level (NOEL) of a single intramuscular administration of gentamicin in day-old broiler chicks was 10mg/kg body weight.

Estimation of atrazine in the stratum corneum and its toxic effects in skin following topical application to rabbits

ABSTRACT For risk assessment, a workable non-invasive method for the estimation of atrazine in skin was needed. Moreover, the dermato-toxic effects of different concentrations of atrazine have not been studied so far. Fifteen milligrams of 35% solution of atrazine in ethanol was topically applied to each of six different clipped sites on the back of rabbits (n = 6). Each site was tape-stripped with 10 consecutive adhesive tapes at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 h of topical dosing to remove the stratum corneum (SC). Atrazine in tapes was extracted with methanol and analyzed with HPLC. The amount of atrazine detected in the SC at 6 h (1955.79 +/- 47.22 mug) is equivalent to 13.03% of the total applied dose. In dermal toxicity studies, 500 mul of 35%, 70% atrazine in ethanol and a commercial preparation of atrazine (Balance(R)) was dosed on clipped backs of rabbits (n = 4) for 4 days under occluded vs non-occluded conditions. Ethanol alone served as control. On the 5th day, rabbits were euthanized and skin was scored for erythema and then examined microscopically. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in erythema scores were observed with 70% atrazine and Balance(R) as compared to the control under occluded conditions. Significant differences in epidermal thickness and cell layers were observed with Balance(R) and 74% atrazine as compared to control in both dosing conditions. There were non-significant differences in erythema, epidermal thickness, or cell layers in occluded vs non-occluded applications of atrazine in ethanol, indicating that atrazine is equally toxic regardless of its application procedures. Moreover, under non-occluded application, very slight erythema was observed but microscopically significant epidermal hyperplasia was noticed. This indicates that even if there are no significant gross skin manifestations of atrazine this can still produce significant damage to the epidermal barrier and hence can result in increase in penetration of self or other toxic substances.

Screening of Veronica anthelmintica seed and Embella ribes fruit mixed in equal parts against gastrointestinal nematodes

The antinematodal activity of a mixed prescription of Veronia anthelmintica seed (Kali zeeri) and Embelia ribes fruit (Babrang) was evaluated in goats. The EPG (Egg per gram) counts were made in the faeces before and on the 3rd, 10th and 15th days of the treatment with the powder in 0.5, 1 and 2 g/kg body weight doses and with the water and methanol extracts equivalent to 2 g/kg of the original powder. The evaluation of data on 15th day of the administration showed that 2 g/kg of powder, its equivalent amount of methanol extract and 0.01 g/kg of morantel tartrate are equally effective and safe in treating natural gastrointestinal nematode infection of the local goats.