Synergistic Effect of Laminin and Epidermal Growth Factor on Biological and Morphological Properties of Co-Cultured Myoblasts and Fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

One of the long-standing problems of myoblasts in vitro expansion is slow cell migration and this causes fibroblast population to exceed myoblasts. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effect of laminin and epidermal growth factor (EGF) on co-cultured myoblasts and fibroblasts for cell attachment, proliferation and migration.

METHODS

Skeletal human muscle cells were cultured in four different conditions; control, EGF, laminin (Lam) and laminin EGF (Lam + EGF). Using live imaging system, their cellular properties; attachment, migration and growth were exposed to Rho kinase inhibitor, Y-27632, and EGF-receptor (EGF-R) inhibitor, gefitinib were measured.

RESULTS

Myoblast migration and proliferation was enhanced significantly by synergistic stimulation of laminin and EGF (0.61 ± 0.14 µm/min, 0.008 ± 0.001 h^-1) compare to that by EGF alone (0.26 ± 0.13 µm/min, 0.004 ± 0.0009 h^-1). However, no changes in proliferation and migration were observed for fibroblasts among the culture conditions. Inhibition of Rho kinase resulted in the increase of the myoblast migration on the laminin-coated surface with EGF condition (0.64 ± 0.18 µm/min). Compared to the untreated conditions, myoblasts cultured on the laminin-coated surface and EGF demonstrated elongated morphology, and average cell length increase significantly. In contrast, inhibition of EGF-R resulted in the decrease of myoblast migration on the laminin coated surface with EGF supplemented condition (0.43 ± 0.05 µm/min) in comparison to the untreated control (0.53 ± 0.05 µm/min).

CONCLUSION

Laminin and EGF preferentially enhance the proliferation and migration of myoblasts, and Rho kinase and EGF-R play a role in this synergistic effect. These results will be beneficial for the propagation of skeletal muscle cells for clinical applications.

Ovine tendon collagen: Extraction, characterisation and fabrication of thin films for tissue engineering applications

Collagen is the most abundant extracellular matrix (ECM) protein in the human body, thus widely used in tissue engineering and subsequent clinical applications. This study aimed to extract collagen from ovine (Ovis aries) Achilles tendon (OTC), and to evaluate its physicochemical properties and its potential to fabricate thin film with collagen fibrils in a random or aligned orientation. Acid-solubilized protein was extracted from ovine Achilles tendon using 0.35M acetic acid, and 80% of extracted protein was measured as collagen. SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of alpha 1 and alpha 2 chain of collagen type I (col I). Further analysis with Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) confirms the presence of triple helix structure of col I, similar to commercially available rat tail col I. Drying the OTC solution at 37°C resulted in formation of a thin film with randomly orientated collagen fibrils (random collagen film; RCF). Introduction of unidirectional mechanical intervention using a platform rocker prior to drying facilitated the fabrication of a film with aligned orientation of collagen fibril (aligned collagen film; ACF). It was shown that both RCF and ACF significantly enhanced human dermal fibroblast (HDF) attachment and proliferation than that on plastic surface. Moreover, cells were distributed randomly on RCF, but aligned with the direction of mechanical intervention on ACF. In conclusion, ovine tendon could be an alternative source of col I to fabricate scaffold for tissue engineering applications.

Surface modification of electrospun poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanofibers for the development of in vitro respiratory epithelium model

Scaffold design is an important aspect of in vitro model development. In this study, nanoscaffold surface modification, namely UV radiation and genipin cross-linking to immobilize collagen on the surface of electrospun poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanofiber sheet was investigated. Samples were divided into four groups; PMMA nanofibers (PMMA), collagen-coated PMMA nanofibers (PMMACOL), genipin cross-linked collagen-coated PMMA nanofibers (PMMAGEN), and UV-irradiated collagen-coated PMMA nanofibers (PMMAUV). 6 h of UV radiation significantly reduced the hydrophobicity of PMMA nanofibers from (131.88° ± 1.33°) to (110.04° ± 0.27°) (p < 0.05). The amount of collagen immobilized was significantly higher in PMMAGEN group (239.36 ± 16.63 μg collagen/mg nanofibers) (p < 0.05) compared to the other groups. RECs on all scaffold expressed epithelial cell-specific markers (CK18 and CK14), mucin-producing cell marker (MUC5Ac) and were actively proliferating, based on the positive expression of Ki67. Total number of attached cells was significantly the highest in PMMAUV group on day 9 (6.44 × 10(4) ± 2.77 × 10(4) cells/cm(2)) and it has the highest proliferation rate from day 4 to 9 (0.005 ± 0.003 h(-1)) compared to the other groups. Even though PMMAGEN group showed the highest collagen adsorption, in terms of cells attachment and proliferation, PMMAUV group showed a better outcome compared to the other groups. Thus, PMMAUV scaffold is more suitable to be used in the construction of in vitro respiratory epithelial model.

Cytotoxic evaluation of biomechanically improved crosslinked ovine collagen on human dermal fibroblasts

Earlier studies in our laboratory demonstrated that collagen extracted from ovine tendon is biocompatible towards human dermal fibroblast. To be able to use this collagen as a scaffold in skin tissue engineering, a mechanically stronger scaffold is required that can withstand manipulation before transplantation. This study was conducted to improve the mechanical strength of this collagen sponge using chemical crosslinkers, and evaluate their effect on physical, chemical and biocompatible properties. Collagen sponge was crosslinked with 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and glutaraldehyde (GA). Tensile test, FTIR study and mercury porosimetry were used to evaluate mechanical properties, chemical property and porosity, respectively. MTT assay was performed to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of crosslinked collagen sponge on human dermal fibroblasts. The FTIR study confirmed the successful crosslinking of collagen sponge. Crosslinking with EDC and GA significantly increased the mechanical strength of collagen sponge, with GA being more superior. Crosslinking of collagen sponge significantly reduced the porosity and the effect was predominant in GA-crosslinked collagen sponge. The GA-crosslinked collagen showed significantly lower, 60% cell viability towards human dermal fibroblasts compared to that of EDC-crosslinked collagen, 80% and non-crosslinked collagen, 100%. Although the mechanical strength was better when using GA but the more toxic effect on dermal fibroblast makes EDC a more suitable crosslinker for future skin tissue engineering.

Aetiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis - a review

Endometriosis is a complex gynaecological disorder that affects nearly 1 in 7 women of reproductive age. Ectopic dissemination of endometrial cell and their subsequent implantation are the mechanisms involved in the development of endometriosis. Endometriosis is a common multifactorial disease caused by an interaction between multiple gene loci and environment. Causes of stress on immune functioning or may be genetically determined. Environmental factors can be responsible for immunosuppressive activities in patient with endometriosis. In addition, toxin modulates steroid receptors expression resulting in altered tissue specific responses to hormones. Chronic immunosuppression in combination with hormonal regulation may have facilitated the aberrant growth of endometrial tissue within the peritoneum. However, the mechanism appears to require endometrium and retrograde menstruation in most cases of the disease.

Effect of supplementation of dermal fibroblasts conditioned medium on expansion of keratinocytes through enhancing attachment

In the present study in vitro expansion of human keratinocytes by supplementing dermal fibroblasts conditioned medium (DFCM) has been reported. Effect of two different DFCM acquired by culturing fibroblasts in keratinocyte-specific medium (defined keratinocytes serum free medium, DFCM-DKSFM) and fibroblast-specific serum free medium (F12: DMEM nutrient mix, DFCM-FD) have been compared. Growth kinetics of keratinocytes in terms of efficiency of cell attachment, expansion index, apparent specific growth rate and growth potential at the end of culture was evaluated in culture supplemented with DFCM-DKSFM and DFCM-FD in comparison with control i.e. DKSFM only. Results indicated that supplementation of DFCM caused significant increase in keratinocyte attachment. Efficiency of keratinocyte attachment in culture supplemented with bFCM-DKSFM was significantly higher compared to those cultured in DFCM-FD and DKSFM. In addition, the expansion index of keratinocytes in cultures supplemented with DFCM-DKSFM and DFCM-FD were 3.7 and 2.2 times higher than that of control condition even though the apparent growth rate and proliferative potential was found significantly lower. These results suggested that supplementation of DFCM enhanced expansion of keratinocyte by increasing efficiency of cell attachment, and DFCM-DKSFM provided suitable condition for in vitro expansion of keratinocytes compared to DFCM-FD and control condition.

Composition analysis and material characterization of an emulsifying extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) produced by Bacillus megaterium RB-05: a hydrodynamic sediment-attached isolate of freshwater origin

AIMS

This work was aimed to isolate, purify and characterize an extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) produced by a freshwater dynamic sediment-attached micro-organism, Bacillus megaterium RB-05, and study its emulsifying potential in different hydrocarbon media.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Bacillus megaterium RB-05 was found to produce EPSs in glucose mineral salts medium, and maximum yield (0.864 g l(-1) ) was achieved after 24-h incubation. The recovery rates of the polysaccharide material by ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography were around 67 and 93%, respectively. As evident from HPLC and FT-IR analyses, the polysaccharide was found to be a heteropolymer-containing glucose, galactose, mannose, arabinose, fucose and N-acetyl glucosamine. Different oligosaccharide combinations namely hexose(3), hexose(4), hexose(5) deoxyhexose(1) and hexose(5) deoxyhexose(1) pentose(3) were obtained after partial hydrolysis of the polymer using MALDI-ToF-MS. The polysaccharide with an average molecular weight of 170 kDa and thermal stability up to 180°C showed pseudoplastic rheology and significant emulsifying activity in hydrocarbon media.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated polysaccharide was found to be of high molecular weight and thermally stable. The purified EPS fraction was composed of hexose, pentose and deoxyhexose sugar residues, which is a rare combination for bacterial polysaccharides. Emulsifying property was either better or comparable to that of other commercially available natural gums and polysaccharides.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This is probably one of the few reports about characterizing an emulsifying EPS produced by a freshwater sediment-attached bacterium. The results of this study contribute to understand the influence of chemical composition and material properties of a new microbial polysaccharide on its application in industrial biotechnology. Furthermore, this work reconfirms freshwater dynamic sediment as a potential habitat for bioprospecting extracellular polymer-producing bacteria. This study will improve our knowledge on the exploitation of a nonconventional renewable resource, which also seems to be ecologically significant.

Headache in a case of Rhupus syndrome

We report a case of Rhupus with secondary anti-phospholipid syndrome who presented with headache and papilloedema due to cerebral venous thrombosis. We propose that an increased awareness about the condition and meticulous investigation of headaches in lupus can avert catastrophic outcomes.

Recurrent limb weakness as initial presentation of Wilson's disease

A 28-year-old normotensive euthyroid man presented with recurrent lower motor neuron type of weakness without sensory or autonomic involvement, with preserved reflexes. Systemic examination was significant for mild hepatosplenomegaly. Investigations revealed persistent hypokalemic, hyperchloremic, normal-anion-gap metabolic acidosis with deranged liver functions. Urine pH was 6.0 even after oral ammonium-chloride loading test. Type I renal tubular acidosis was diagnosed. A search for the etiology revealed bilateral Kayser-Fleischer ring, with low serum ceruloplasmin levels and high urinary copper, confirming it to be Wilson's disease.

Mitochondrial myopathy associated with myasthenia gravis in a young man

An 18-year-old man presented with progressive weakness of proximal muscles with prominent diurnal variation for 3 months. He had bilateral ptosis since his childhood without diurnal variation or double vision. Neurological examination showed involvement of levator palpebrae superioris and lateral rectus muscles bilaterally. The plasma glucose after 75 gm glucose load was 302 mg/dL. The electrophysiological study revealed myopathic pattern and a decremental response in repetitive nerve stimulation. The plasma lactate was elevated and the muscle biopsy showed numerous ragged-red fibers. Serum acetylcholine receptor antibody assay was positive. We diagnosed myasthenia gravis with mitochondrial myopathy.

Preconception care of women attending adult general diabetes clinics--are we doing enough?

BACKGROUND

The presence of diabetes in pregnancy can result in substantial morbidity to both mother and baby if management is sub-optimal.

AIMS

To assess the process of standards of preconception care (against the National Service Framework standards) of women attending the adult general diabetes clinics in a district general hospital.

METHODS

Retrospective review of case notes of women aged 18-40 years attending the general diabetes clinics for annual review, over a period of 6 months.

RESULTS

Seventy sets of notes were reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 32 years. Fifty-six patients had type-1 diabetes and 14 patients had type-2 diabetes. Mean duration of diabetes was 13 years. Eighty-six percent of the patients had blood pressure recordings documented. Mean blood pressure was 124/74 mmHg. Mean HbA1c was 9.1%. Documented evidence of home blood glucose monitoring was seen in 66% of the patients. Preconception counselling/contraception were discussed in 17 patients (25%). Twenty-nine patients (41%) were on potentially teratogenic medications. Alcohol and smoking history was not documented in 91% and 61% of the patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective assessment highlights that reproductive issues in an at risk population of women with diabetes are not included in routine management of diabetes care in outpatient clinics.

Doubtful descent, dilemma and diagnosis: a case of Kallmann syndrome

A 16-year-old boy with a diagnosis of bilateral cryptorchidism was referred for preoperative evaluation. He had diminished hearing and difficulty in vision since birth, with inattentiveness, poor school performance and delayed milestones. He was previously operated on for cleft lip. General survey revealed bilateral short fourth metacarpals and an operative scar mark over the left nostril and upper lip. He had a micropenis, small soft testes with anosmia, and sensory-motor deafness. The hormonal assay was consistent with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and computed tomography cisternography revealed almost hypoplastic olfactory bulb with an ill-defined olfactory tract and sulci, supporting the clinical diagnosis of Kallmann syndrome.

Multiorgan involvement due to cytomegalovirus infection in AIDS

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a relatively late complication of AIDS. Like other viruses contributing to co-morbidity of HIV infection, cytomegalovirus has the propensity to cause multiorgan involvement. We report the case of a 34-year-old seropositive man who presented with bilateral lower limb weakness and symptomatic pallor. He was already on antiretroviral drugs for a month prior to presentation. Detailed clinical examination and laboratory investigations revealed cytomegalovirus polyradiculoneuropathy associated with bone marrow dysplasia. Dysplasia of haematopoeitic cell lines occurs in 30% to 70% of HIV infected patients, and is often indistinguishable from myelodysplastic syndrome. However, in our case, the bone marrow picture reverted back to normal with treatment of the CMV infection, pointing to a possible role of CMV as the causative agent of bone marrow dysplasia. Moreover, CMV has been incriminated as a pathogen producing the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. The onset of the disease in our case one month after initiation of HAART strongly raises the possibility of this being a case of CMV related IRIS. This is the first reported case where IRIS has presented with CMV polyradiculoneuropathy and bone marrow dysplasia. We would like to highlight that in today's era of HIV care, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of multiorgan involvement by CMV, for appropriate management of this disease in the background of AIDS.

Effects of Feeding Grains Naturally Contaminated with Fusarium Mycotoxins on Brain Regional Neurochemistry of Laying Hens, Turkey Poults, and Broiler Breeder Hens

Three experiments were conducted to compare the effects of feeding blends of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on brain regional neurochemistry of laying hens, turkey poults, and broiler breeder hens. In Experiment 1, thirty-six 45-wk-old laying hens were fed diets including the following for 4 wk: 1) control, 2) contaminated grains, and 3) contaminated grains + 0.2% polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent (GMA). Concentrations of brain neurotransmitters and metabolites were analyzed in pons, hypothalamus, and cortex by HPLC with electrochemical detection. Neurotransmitters and the metabolites measured included dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxylphenyacetic acid, homovanillic acid, serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)], 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. The feeding of contaminated grains significantly increased concentrations of 5-HT and decreased the 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid:5-HT in the pons region in the brain stem. Dietary supplementation with GMA prevented these effects. There was no effect of diet on concentrations of other neurotransmitters or metabolites in the pons, hypothalamus, or cortex. In Experiment 2, thirty-six 1-d-old turkey poults were fed diets including the following for 4 wk: 1) control, 2) contaminated grains, and 3) contaminated grains + 0.2% GMA. Hypothalamic, pons, and cortex neurotransmitter concentrations were not affected by diet. In Experiment 3, forty-two 26-wk-old broiler breeder hens were fed diets including the following for 15 wk: 1) control, 2) contaminated grains, and 3) contaminated grains + 0.2% GMA. There was no effect of diet on neurotransmitter concentrations in the pons, hypothalamus, or cortex. It was concluded that differences in intraspecies effects of these mycotoxins on brain neurotransmitter concentrations might explain the intraspecies differences in the severity of Fusarium mycotoxin-induced reductions in feed intake.

An unusual cause of dyspnoea complicating right upper abdominal swelling

A middle aged, non-addict male presented with right upper abdominal pain and swelling with respiratory distress. Examination revealed central cyanosis, bipedal pitting edema with prominent epigastric and back veins. Liver was enlarged, tender, spanned 20 cm without any splenomegaly or ascites. Other systems were clinically normal. Laboratory investigations showed polymorphonuclear leucocytosis with slightly deranged liver function. Abdominal ultrasonography showed an abscess in the right lobe of the liver with compressed inferior vena cava (IVC), middle and left hepatic veins. Arterial blood gas (ABG) documented hypoxia with orthodeoxia and air-contrast echocardiography was suggestive of an intrapulmonary shunt. A diagnosis of hepato-pulmonary syndrome (HPS) was made with near normal liver function secondary to amebic liver abscess. It reversed completely following successful treatment of the liver abscess.

Effects of feed-borne Fusarium mycotoxins on hematology and immunology of turkeys

Feeding grains naturally-contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins has been shown to alter the metabolism and performance of turkeys. The objectives of the current experiment were to examine the effects of feeding turkeys with grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on their hematology and immunological indices (including functions), and the possible protective effect of feeding a polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent (GMA). Two hundred twenty-five 1-d-old male turkey poults were fed corn, wheat, and soybean meal-based starter (0 to 3 wk), grower (4 to 6 wk), developer (7 to 9 wk), and finisher (10 to 12 wk) diets formulated with uncontaminated grains, contaminated grains, or contaminated grains with 0.2% GMA. The chronic consumption of Fusarium mycotoxins caused minor and transient changes in hematocrit (0.33 L/L) and hemoglobin (10(6) g/L) concentrations as well as in blood basophil (0.13 x 10(9)/L) and monocyte counts (3.42 x 10(9)/L) compared with controls. Supplementation of the contaminated diet with GMA prevented these effects on blood cell counts. Biliary IgA concentrations were significantly increased (4.45-fold) when birds were fed contaminated grains compared with controls, but serum IgA concentrations were not affected. Contact hypersensitivity to dinitrochlorobenzene, which is a CD8+ T-cell-mediated delayed-type hypersensitivity response, was decreased (48%) by feed-borne mycotoxins compared with the control. By contrast, the primary and secondary antibody response to sheep red blood cells, a CD4+ T-cell-mediated response, was not affected. It was concluded that chronic consumption of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins exerts only minor adverse effects on the hematology and some immunological indices of turkeys. Consumption of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins may, however, increase the susceptibility of turkeys to infectious agents against which CD8+ T cells play a major role in defense.

Effects of feed-borne Fusarium mycotoxins on hematology and immunology of laying hens

Feeding grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins has been shown to alter metabolism and performance of laying hens. The objectives of the current experiment were to examine the effects of feeding grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on hematology and immunological indices and functions of laying hens and the possible protective effect of feeding a polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent (GMA). One hundred forty-four laying hens were fed for 12 wk with diets formulated with (1) uncontaminated grains, (2) contaminated grains, or (3) contaminated grains + 0.2% GMA. Fusarium mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON, 12 mg/kg), 15-acetyl-DON (0.5 mg/kg), and zearalenone (0.6 mg/kg) were identified in the contaminated diets arising from contaminated grains grown in Ontario, Canada. The concentrations of DON arising from naturally contaminated grains in this study were similar to purified mycotoxin fed to experimental mice. The chronic feeding of Fusarium mycotoxins induced small decreases in hematocrit values, total numbers of white blood cells, lymphocytes including both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes, and biliary IgA concentration. Supplementation of diets containing feedborne mycotoxins with GMA prevented the reduction in total number of B lymphocytes in the peripheral blood and the reduction in biliary IgA concentration. In addition, the delayed-type hypersensitivity response to dinitrochlorobenzene was increased by feed-borne mycotoxins, whereas IgG and IgM antibody titers to sheep red blood cells were not affected by diet. We concluded that chronic consumption of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins at levels likely to be encountered in practice were not systemically immunosuppressive or hematotoxic; however, mucosal immunocompetence needs to be explored further.

Effects of feeding grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on hepatic fractional protein synthesis rates of laying hens and the efficacy of a polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding grains naturally contaminated with a combination of Fusarium mycotoxins on hepatic fractional protein synthesis rates (FSR) of laying hens. Thirty-six 32-wk-old laying hens were fed diets formulated with 1) uncontaminated grains, 2) contaminated grains, or 3) contaminated grains + 0.2% polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent for a period of 4 wk. Hepatic FSR were measured in vivo by the flooding-dose method. The feeding of contaminated grains decreased hepatic FSR in laying hens compared with controls after 4 wk. The hepatic FSR of birds fed contaminated grains and contaminated grains + glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent were not different. It was concluded that the in vivo hepatic FSR of laying hens was inhibited by the feeding of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins and that this may explain some of the adverse effects seen when contaminated grains were fed to laying hens.

Effects of feeding blends of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on performance, metabolism, hematology, and immunocompetence of ducklings

Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of feeding grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on performance, metabolism, hematology, and immune competence of ducklings. Four hundred sixty-four 1-d-old White Pekin male ducklings were fed starter (0 to 2 wk), grower (3 to 4 wk), and finisher (5 to 6 wk) diets formulated with uncontaminated grains, a low level of contaminated grains, a high level of contaminated grains, or the higher level of contaminated grains + 0.2% polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent. Body weight gains, feed consumption, and feed efficiency were not affected by diet. However, consumption of contaminated grains decreased plasma calcium concentrations after 2 wk and plasma uric acid concentrations at the 4-wk assessment point. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations and hematocrit decreased when ducks were fed contaminated grains for 4 or 6 wk, respectively. In contrast, total numbers of white blood cells and lymphocytes increased transiently in birds fed contaminated grains for 4 wk. The antibody response to sheep red blood cells (CD4+ T cell dependent) and the cell-mediated response to phytohemagglutinin-P (also CD4+ T cell dependent) were not affected by diet, but consumption of contaminated grains for 6 wk decreased the duration of peak cell-mediated response to dinitrochlorobenzene (CD8+ T cell dependent) assessed in a skin test. Feeding grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins, even at levels widely regarded as high, exerted only minor adverse effects on plasma chemistry and hematology of ducklings, and production parameters were unaffected in this avian species. Mycotoxin-contaminated feeds may, however, render these animals susceptible to infectious agents such as viruses against which the CD8+ T cell provides necessary defence. Glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent was not effective in preventing alterations caused by Fusarium mycotoxins.

Effects of dietary tamarind on cholesterol metabolism in laying hens

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the potential for dietary tamarind to alter serum and egg yolk cholesterol concentrations and overall performance in different layer strains. Thirty, 43-wk-old, Hisex Brown, ISA Brown, Lohmann Brown, Starcross Brown, Babcock B-300, and Starcross-579 strains (5 hens per strain) were fed diets supplemented with 0 (control), 2, 4, 6, or 8% oven-dried tamarind for 6 wk. Egg production, egg mass, and efficiency of feed utilization followed a quadratic response with a maximum when the diet contained 2% tamarind and a minimum when 8% tamarind was fed (P < 0.05). There were no differences (P > 0.05) among strains for egg production, egg weight, yolk weight, egg mass, feed consumption, or feed efficiency. Yolk weight increased linearly (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of dietary tamarind in wk 1, 2, and 3 as well as when averaged over 6 wk. Egg yolk cholesterol concentrations were not affected by dietary tamarind. Serum cholesterol concentrations, however, decreased quadratically with increasing levels of dietary tamarind (P < 0.05). It was concluded that 2% supplemental dietary tamarind could decrease serum cholesterol concentrations and increase layer performance.

Effects of feeding blends of grains naturally contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on performance and metabolism of laying hens

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding laying hens grains naturally contaminated with a combination of Fusarium mycotoxins. Parameters measured included performance, organ weights, and plasma chemistry. One hundred and forty-four, 45-wk-old laying hens were fed diets including: (1) control, (2) contaminated grains, and (3) contaminated grains + 0.2% polymeric glucomannan mycotoxin adsorbent (GMA) for a 12-wk period. The feeding of contaminated grains decreased feed consumption compared with controls in the first 4 wk. Feed consumption increased, however, from 4 to 8 wk and from 8 to 12 wk. The efficiency of feed utilization (feed consumption/egg mass) decreased compared with controls in the periods from 4 to 8 and from 8 to 12 wk when birds were fed contaminated grains. Supplementation with GMA decreased feed consumption and increased the efficiency of feed utilization in the period from 8 to 12 wk. Egg production and egg mass decreased in wk 4 and 8 compared with controls when contaminated grains were fed, whereas egg and eggshell weights decreased in the fourth wk. Plasma uric acid concentrations increased throughout the experiment and relative kidney weights increased at the end of the experiment compared with controls when birds were fed contaminated grains. The feeding of GMA prevented the elevation in uric acid concentrations and relative kidney weights. It was concluded that layer performance and metabolism were adversely affected by chronic feeding of a combination of Fusarium mycotoxins, and that GMA prevented many of these effects.

Seasonal changes in the seminiferous epithelium of rhesus and bonnet monkeys

With a view to elucidate seasonal variations in testicular spermatogenesis, quantitative analysis of spermatogenic cells was carried out in non-human primate species viz. rhesus (Macaca mulatta) and bonnet (M. radiata) monkeys during breeding (October-December) and non-breeding (May-June) seasons. The results revealed significant inhibition of testicular germ cell population during non-breeding compared with the breeding period in both the species. Quantitative determination of Sertoli cell-germ cell ratio showed a marked decrease in the number of type A-spermatogonia, spermatocytes (non-pachytene and pachytene) and spermatids (in steps 1-12 of spermiogenesis) in rhesus monkey during the non-breeding period. Bonnet monkeys exhibited the significant decline in the number of primary spermatocytes and spermatids during the non-breeding phase. In addition, average diameter of round seminiferous tubules and nuclear diameter of Leydig cells also decreased significantly in rhesus monkeys. However, bonnet monkeys did not show any significant change in nuclear diameter/morphology of Leydig cells, testicular tubular diameter and number of type A-spermatogoniae. Sertoli cell number did not show any significant change during both breeding and non-breeding periods in both the species. The results of this study indicate a prominent seasonal variation in testicular spermatogenic/Leydig cells in rhesus monkeys than those observed in bonnet monkeys.

Effects of dietary garlic on cholesterol metabolism in laying hens

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential for dietary garlic to influence egg yolk cholesterol concentrations and overall performance in different layer strains. Thirty-six, 28-wk-old, Hisex Brown,Isa Brown, Lohmann, Starcross, Babcock, and Starcross-579 strains (six hens per strain) were fed diets supplemented with 0 (control), 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10% sun-dried garlic paste for 6 wk. There were no differences (P > 0.05) among diets or strains in egg weight, egg mass, feed consumption, feed efficiency, and BW gain as averaged over 6 wk. Yolk weight, however, responded quadratically with increasing levels of dietary garlic and differed among strains (P < 0.05). Egg production and yolk weights were significantly higher in the Babcock strain in comparison with other strains. Serum and egg yolk cholesterol concentrations decreased linearly (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of dietary garlic. Serum and egg yolk cholesterol concentrations also differed among different strains (P < 0.05). It was concluded that garlic paste in the diets of laying hens reduced serum and yolk cholesterol concentrations. It was also concluded that dietary garlic paste had no adverse effects on layer performance.

Effect of compound CDRI 84/35 and synthetic estrogen on the seminiferous epithelium of immature rat

Compound CDRI 84/35 (a piperazine derivative--a potent antispermatogenic agent) has been shown to cause significant inhibition in testicular spermatogenesis without affecting Leydig cell and accessory sex organ function in adult rats. The present study was conducted to determine its effect on the germ cell population and Leydig cell morphology in immature rats (40-50 gm) administered CDRI 84/35 (100 mg/kg/day p.o.), synthetic estradiol benzoate (EB; 5 microg/rat/day) and vehicle at the age of 21 days. Animals were killed 24 h later following 7 and 14 days' treatments. Bouin's fixed testes were sectioned (at 5 microm) and stained with PAS-hematoxylin. Quantitative determination of Sertoli Cell-Germ Cell ratio was carried out in 150 round seminiferous tubules in each group of 5 rats. Results revealed a significant decrease in number of the spermatocytes (non-pachytene and pachytene) and early (round) spermatids in step 1-8 of spermiogenesis without affecting Leydig cell morphology in rats administered CDRI 84/35 for 7 and 14 days as compared to corresponding controls. In contrast, the testes of rats injected with synthetic EB, caused a marked inhibition in these meiotic and post-meiotic germ cell types, as well as in the diameters of round seminiferous tubules, and Leydig cells nuclei (only in 14 days treatment), and testicular weight on autopsy days 8 and 15 as compared to CDRI 84/35-treated rats. While the number of pre-meiotic spermatogoniae was observed to be slightly decreased after only 14 days treatment in both CDRI 84/35 and EB treatment groups, the Sertoli cell number did not show any significant change as compared to controls. The present investigation confirms the antispermatogenic effect of compound CDRI 84/35 in immature rats similar to that reported in adult rats. Marked inhibition in pachytene spermatocytes and other testicular parameters following synthetic estrogen treatment might be due to its antiandrogenic action, contrasting with the non-hormonal profile of CDRI compound.

Dietary interaction of 1,4-diaminobutane (putrescine) and calcium on eggshell quality and performance in laying hens

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the potential dietary interaction between 1,4-diaminobutane (putrescine) and calcium on eggshell quality and overall laying performance. One hundred ninety-two 30-wk-old White Leghorn hens were fed a corn-and soybean-meal-based diet supplemented with 0.00, 0.05, 0.10, or 0.15% putrescine and 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, or 4.0% calcium in a factorial design (12 birds per diet) for 4 wk. The percentage of egg production increased linearly (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of dietary calcium. Significant interactions (P < 0.05) were observed between dietary putrescine and calcium for eggshell thickness, eggshell deformation, percentage of eggshell, calcium intake, total calcium retention, total eggshell calcium, and percentage of eggshell calcium. Interactions were due to quadratic effects of putrescine or calcium on these parameters. Eggshell thickness and percent eggshell increased when hens were fed 3.5% calcium in combination with 0.1% putrescine; however, calcium intake and calcium retention were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Eggshell quality improved with increasing dietary levels of calcium due to increased calcium retention and calcium balance. Increasing levels of dietary putrescine did not have a negative effect on eggshell quality; however, calcium intake was lower at higher-supplemented levels of putrescine. It was observed that dietary calcium in excess of requirements resulted in increased egg production and eggshell quality. Eggshell quality improved when hens were fed 3.5% calcium diet in combination with 0.10% putrescine. It was concluded that small supplements of dietary putrescine may improve eggshell quality, depending on dietary calcium concentration.

Effects of dietary 1,4-diaminobutane (putrescine) on eggshell quality and laying performance of hens laying thin-shelled eggs

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential for dietary 1,4-diaminobutane (putrescine) to influence eggshell quality and overall laying performance in hens. Forty-eight, 60-wk-old White Leghorn hens laying thin-shelled eggs were fed a corn and soybean meal-based diet supplemented with 0.00 (control), 0.05, 0.10, or 0.15% putrescine for 4 wk. Twelve hens that laid thick-shelled eggs were also fed the control diet. The feeding of supplemental putrescine decreased feed consumption; however, egg weight decreased only at higher levels of supplementation. Increasing dietary levels of putrescine responded quadratically in eggshell deformation, eggshell weight, and eggshell weight as a percentage of egg weight (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in shell deformation, shell thickness, or shell weight when comparing hens laying thick-shelled eggs and those laying thin-shelled eggs that were fed 0.05% supplemental putrescine. Calcium intake, calcium retention, and calcium balance decreased linearly (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of dietary putrescine. Pancreatic putrescine concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in hens laying thick-shelled eggs compared with hens laying thin-shelled eggs. It appeared that pancreatic cells synthesized more polyamines in hens laying thick-shelled eggs. This increase in polyamines might have caused improved eggshell quality by increasing calcium transport. It was concluded that 0.05% supplemental putrescine improved eggshell quality; however, higher levels proved to be toxic.

CLINICO-RADIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF XENOGRAFTS IN MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

An endeavour to find a suitable substitute for autogenous bone graft in corrections of maxillofacial deformities has been going on. Evaluation of commercially processed xenograft (SURGIBONE) has been carried out as a substitute for autogenous grafts in various maxillofacial surgical procedures in the Department of Dental Surgery at Armed Forces Medical College. Clinical and radiographic evaluation in 15 patients revealed highly satisfactory result with complete integration of the graft without any adverse host tissue reaction within the follow-up period lasting from 12-18 months.

Estrogen receptors in rat bone: their interaction with estrogen receptor modulators

Estrogen receptors (ER) were studied in rat bone cytosol using immunoprecipitation, and Western blot technique. Ligand specificity of bone ER was studied using various known modulators of ER. Competitive experiments were performed under exchange conditions in bone tissue obtained from one day old rats. ER alpha and beta subtypes were identified using immunoblotting experiments compared with that of ovarian and uterine tissues. In competitive binding assay, maximum inhibition in specific 3H-E2 binding was shown by E2 followed by tamoxifen and diethylstilbestrol. 7-Hydroxycentchroman and 85/287 also inhibited specific 3H-E2 binding but were less potent as compared to tamoxifen and diethylstilbestrol. However, 85/287 was less effective (81%) as compared to 7-hydroxycentchroman. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of cytosol and Western blot analysis revealed the presence of 55 kD and 66 kD ER immunoreactive bands corresponding to alpha and beta subtypes, respectively, in bone as well as in uterus. Interestingly, the concentration of 55 kD ER was 3-fold higher than that of 66 kD ER. Ovarian cytosol revealed the presence of a 55 kD band only in Western blot analysis. These studies suggest the action of estrogens/ER modulators on osteoblasts which contain a limited number of classical alpha as well as beta sub types of ER that are known to be structurally different in their hormone-binding domains.

Topical use of Sucralfate Cream in second and third degree burns

This clinical study was undertaken to test the efficacy of topical Sucralfate Cream in second and third degree burns. Topical Sucralfate Cream has been used on a wide variety of lesions from radiation proctitis and dermatitis to keratoconjunctivitis with remarkable results. The study was carried out in two phases. The first phase comprised 60 patients, 30 of whom were treated with Sucralfate Cream while the other 30 were treated with other topical antimicrobial agents. Twenty-one of the patients in the study group had second-degree burns and nine patients' third degree burns. In the second phase, a double blind study was carried out on 25 patients where one area of burns was treated with Sucralfate Cream while another control area of the same patient was treated with a placebo ointment, containing the excipients used during preparation of the Sucralfate Cream, without Sucralfate. In the first phase, it was seen that the period of epithelialisation of second degree burns in the study group treated with Sucralfate Cream was 18.8 days compared with 24.6 days with other topical agents. This difference is statistically significant with a P value of <0.00001. In the double blind study, also healing in the areas treated with Sucralfate was more rapid than those treated with bland placebo ointment. The difference in the two rates of healing was statistically significant with a P value of 0.00067. Histopathological studies were also carried out in 10 patients of phase I of the trial. Sucralfate Cream promotes rapid epithelialisation of second degree burns with minimal said effects and offers another topical agent in the burn care specialist's armamentarium.

Effects of dietary 1, 4-diaminobutane (putrescine) on eggshell quality and laying performance of older hens

We conducted an experiment to evaluate the potential for dietary 1,4-diaminobutane (putrescine) to promote eggshell quality and overall laying hen performance. A total of 128, 60-wk-old Barred Rock hens were fed a corn and soybean meal-based layer diet supplemented with 0.0 (control), 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% free base 1,4-diaminobutane for 4 wk. The feeding of supplemental putrescine decreased feed consumption (P < or = 0.05) and egg mass (P < or = 0.05) and tended to decrease egg production (P < 0.08). Albumen quality was not significantly affected (P < 0.09) by the end of the experiment, as determined by Haugh units. Eggshell thickness was not significantly improved with lower levels of dietary putrescine (P < 0.08). Although dietary putrescine did not have any effect on the relative weights of duodenum, jejunum + ileum, or pancreas, there was a linear increase in putrescine concentrations in tissues (P < or = 0.05). Supplementation of dietary putrescine also resulted in increased putrescine and spermidine concentrations in egg (P < or = 0.05). Egg weight and eggshell deformation increased over time; however, eggshell weight, eggshell weight as percentage of egg weight, and eggshell thickness decreased (P < or = 0.05). It appeared that eggshell quality declined regardless of diet over the 4-wk experimental period. It was concluded that the lack of effect of dietary putrescine on egg parameters, with the exception of albumen quality and eggshell thickness, was due to putrescine toxicity. Hens transferred excess dietary putrescine and metabolites to eggs.

A primate model of anxiety

Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ; 30 mg/kg, i.m.) produced an acute anxiogenic effect on the behaviour of a social colony of rhesus monkeys acclimatized to laboratory conditions. The animals exhibited hypervigilance, aggressiveness, tachypnea, piloerection and frequent change of posture and also had raised plasma cortisol levels. These effects of PTZ were antagonized by benzodiazepines (diazepam; 1 mg/kg, i.v. and alprazolam; 0.05 mg/kg, p.o.). Non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic drug (buspirone; 10 mg/kg, p.o.) blocked the behavioural effects but not the rise in plasma cortisol concentration. On the other hand, pretreatment with hypnosedative (promethazine; 5 mg/kg, i.m.) or anticonvulsant (sodium valproate; 40 mg/kg, p.o.) agents did not attenuate the effects of PTZ indicating the specificity of its anxiogenic response. The model, thus, seems suitable for evaluation of potential anxiolytic agents.

Effect of CDRI-85/287 on uterine estradiol and progesterone receptor levels/morphometric measurements during preimplantation period in rat

Studies with 85/287, a potent nonsteroidal antiestrogen/antiimplantation agent were taken up. In this paper we report alterations in uterine morphometric measurements and estrogen/progesterone receptor levels under the influence of this compound. Results showed 32% decline in stromal absolute volume density on day 5 post-coitum (p.c.) only, whereas eosinophilic leucocyte number decreased both on days 3 and 5 p.c. (41%) in treated rat uterus. Epithelial mitotic activity showed complete cessation both in control and treated rats on day 5 p.c. Under the influence of the compound both cytosolic and nuclear estrogen receptor (ERc and ERn) levels decreased on day 3 p.c., but on day 5 p.c. ERn increased significantly. A significant increase was however noticed in progesterone nuclear receptors (PRn) on day 5 p.c. On the whole our studies showed overall significant changes in uterine morphometric measurement/estrogen and progesterone receptor levels during the preimplantation period in rat under the influence of compound 85/287, causing asynchrony of events and thus failure of implantation.

Uterine estradiol and progesterone receptor concentration, activities of certain antioxidant enzymes and dehydrogenases and histoarchitecture in relation to time of secretion of nidatory estrogen and high endometrial sensitivity in rat

Alterations in uterine nuclear and cytosolic estradiol (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptor concentration, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), surface and transmission electron microscopy and histology in relation to the time of secretion of nidatory estrogen and the onset of endometrial sensitivity in the rat were investigated. A significant increase in plasma estradiol (E2) concentration in control rats was observed at 22.00 h on day 4 post-coitum, whereas progesterone (P) concentration increased at 17.00 h on day 4 and was maintained until 17.00 h on day 5. The period of high endometrial sensitivity (10.00 h on day 5) was characterized by elevated uterine cytosolic ER and nuclear and cytosolic PR concentration and POD activity, low columnar luminal epithelium with undulating surface and intercellular membranes, covered with short microvilli and pinopods, and containing numerous electron-transparent apical vesicles, mitochondria, polyribosomes, rough (RER) and smooth (SER) endoplasmic reticulum, well developed Golgi, few lysosomes and lipid droplets and loose edematous antimesometrial stroma. Inhibition in endometrial sensitivity by post-coital centchroman was associated with a marked depletion in uterine cytosolic ER and an increase in nuclear ER concentration, a decrease in POD and G-6-PDH activities, compact fibroblastic stroma, an increase in luminal epithelial cell height with decreased RER, SER, polyribosomes, Golgi, straightening of intercellular membranes, reduced surface undulations and absence of pinopods. Electron-transparent vesicles appeared flattened and clumped in the apical portion of cells, tight junctions were more prominent and lipid droplets were translucent. Nuclear and cytosolic PR and the pattern of secretion or plasma E2 and P remained unaffected. CAT, SOD and LDH activities, although high throughout pre-implantation, did not vary in relation to the secretion of nidatory estrogen, endometrial sensitivity or centchroman treatment.

Stromal cell interaction and relevance to predecidual events and menstruation

Endometrial stromal cells play a vital role during decidualization and implantation. The aim of this study was to analyse the cyclic ultrastructural variations of stromal fibroblasts, granulocytes and blood-derived cells which invade the stroma during various stages of the menstrual cycle. Diverse opinions exist in the literature regarding the origin, fate and function of the endometrial granulocytes. Our study is in agreement with available immunological data and shows that (i) fibroblasts and granulocytes are distinct cell types in the stroma, (ii) they exhibit distinct changes across the menstrual cycle and (iii) fibroblasts are not the common progenitor for granulocytes and predecidual cells in the secretory phase endometrium, as suggested by previous investigators. The infiltration of eosinophils, platelets, macrophages, neutrophils, etc., during the menstrual phase makes the stroma a potential source of growth factors and cytokines which may regulate the process of regression and regeneration of the endometrium. Furthermore, we propose that endometrial granulocytes could be the source of decidual prolactin because the ultrastructural morphology of their secretory granules closely resembles that of the prolactin-secreting cells in the pituitary.

Early abortifacient action of RU 486 by continuous intravenous infusion in rat

RU 486 administered through constant intravenous infusion at 20 mg/kg dose on day 8 of pregnancy induced frank vaginal bleeding and resorption of all implantations in 100% rats. This was associated with an almost 4-fold reduction in progesterone secretion rate by the dispersed luteal cells ex-vivo. At 12 mg/kg dose, an incomplete resorption of implantations was observed in all treated animals. Results indicate that slow and continuous intravenous infusion of this antiprogestin was highly effective in terminating pregnancy shortly after implantation in the rat and this could, at least partially, be related to its luteolytic action in this species.

Uterine estradiol and progesterone receptor concentration in relation to circulating hormone levels and histoarchitecture during high endometrial sensitivity and induced decidualization in guinea pigs

Alterations in nuclear and cytosolic estradiol (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptor concentration in the antimesometrial (AM) and mesometrial (M) segments of the uterus in relation to circulating hormone levels, histology and surface topography during the period of high endometrial sensitivity and development of trauma-induced decidualization in cyclic guinea pigs were investigated. The period of high endometrial sensitivity (i.e. day 5 of the estrous cycle) was characterized by elevated plasma estradiol and progesterone and their receptors in the nuclear and cytosolic fractions of the uterus. There was, however, no difference in the concentration of these receptors or the surface ultrastructure in the AM and M segments. Unilateral traumatization by scissor cut along the AM length of the uterus on day 5 of the estrous cycle induced decidual cell reaction resulting in a marked increase in weight of the decidualized (traumatized) uterine horn with advancing decidualization to reach maximum levels (926% of the contralateral nontraumatized uterine horn) 7 days after traumatization. This was associated with decidual transformation and a marked increase in nuclear and cytosolic ER and PR concentration in the AM segment of the traumatized uterine horn. An increase in receptor concentration in the M segment of the traumatized uterine horn or the AM segment of the nontraumatized uterine horn was transitory and of a low order. Receptor concentration in the M segment of the nontraumatized uterine horn remained low throughout days 8-12 of the cycle. Findings indicate a possible role of both estradiol and progesterone in induction of endometrial sensitivity and development and maintenance of decidua in the guinea pig.

Antigestagenic activity of Ixora finlaysoniana in rat

Oral administration of crude ethanolic extract of the serial parts of Ixora finlaysoniana Wall. ex G. Don to adult female rats at 250 mg/kg dose on days 1-5 or 1-7 post-coitum prevented pregnancy in 100% rats. The extract was also effective when administered on days 1 or 1-3 post-coitum, but the minimum effective dose increased with decreased duration of administration and was 1000 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg, respectively, in the two schedules. At lower doses, a significant reduction in implantation number and increased post-implantation resorption rate were observed in all the schedules. Almost complete resorption of all implantations was observed after administration of 1000 mg/kg dose of the extract during the peri-implantation period. A slight acceleration in tubal transport rate of embryos and delay in blastocyst formation were observed in rats treated postcoitally with the single anti-implantation dose of the extract. Significantly fewer embryos were recovered after their entry into the uterus. Except in one rat receiving 250 mg/kg dose of the extract on days 1-5, in which one apparently normal zona-free blastocyst was recovered from the uterus, uterine flushings of none of the nonpregnant animals contained any unimplanted embryos by day 10 post-coitum. In immature rat bioassay, the extract was found to possess estrogenic activity as evidenced by dose-dependent increase in uterine weight and cornification of the vaginal epithelium at doses ranging from 50-1000 mg/kg. At the 500 and 1000 mg/kg doses, it also induced premature opening of the vagina. Taking 100% increase in uterine weight as the parameter, the extract was found to be about 1.6X10(5) times less estrogenic than ethinylestradiol. The extent and duration of estrogenic responses exerted by single contraceptive dose of the extract were also markedly lower than that induced by ethinylestradiol. The extract was devoid of any estrogen antagonistic or synergistic activity and did not affect ovarian prenidatory estrogen or progesterone synthesis. The findings indicate that the extract at its contraceptive dose a) exerts a differential estrogenic response at the fallopian tube and the uterine levels, b) does not appear embryocidal, but causes slight asynchrony in development and tubal transport rate of pre-implantation embryos, which together with their loss through vagina after entry into the uterus, due to estrogenic action of the extract, might contribute to its anti-implantation action, and c) its anti-implantation and post-implantation resorptive actions are not mediated via altered ovarian function.

Duplication of the upper lip and maxilla

We report a patient with duplication of the upper lip and maxilla. This deformity is extremely rare and six previous reports are reviewed.

Management of long standing post burn deformities of hand

A study of 50 cases of long standing post burn deformities of hand in respect to their type of deformities, their operative correction, reconstruction and subsequent recovery had been carried out during the period from January 1979 to May 1986. Contractures were mainly due to shortage of skin and soft tissue; joint deformities developed secondary to that. Purpose of this study was to provide the patient with a good functioning hand. Of them 19 cases required skin grafting and 31 cases required different types of skin flap like groin flap in 13, abdominal flap in 12 and transposition flap in 3,Z-plasty in 2 and buttock flap in one case for resurfacing the raw area which was created following release of contracture of skin and soft tissue. Six patients required capsulotomy and collateral ligament excision, 2 required excision arthroplasty and one patient required excision of lower end of ulna along with a flap cover. Deformities corrected at an earlier date showed better functional recovery than those which were treated at a much later date. In this series, 3 children required secondary correction of their contracted flap due to their growing age, 3 adult patients developed contracture to the grafted skin for not using splint or having any physiotherapy, 2 patients had little extension deformities even after correction flap cover of hyperextension deformity, 2 patients with excision arthroplasty had weak grip and 3 patients were not followed up. Rest had good results. Extensive physiotherapy, proper splinting and regular follow-up at least for 3 to 5 years after operation are the secrets of better functional recovery.

Luteolytic action of two antiprogestational agents (RU-38486 and ZK-98734) in the rat

RU-38486 or ZK-98734 treatment (3 mg/day, s.c.) to intact or hysterectomized adult female rats on Days 5-7 post coitum induced changes characteristic of luteolysis. Ultrastructurally, the luteal cells exhibited an extensive vacuolization of the cytoplasm and perinuclear areas, degeneration of mitochondrial cristae, massive accumulation of lipid droplets, increase in number of lysosome like granules and heterochromatinization of the nucleus. In general, RU-38486 induced more marked degeneration of the luteal cells than did ZK-98734. There was also a significant decrease in peripheral plasma progesterone concentrations in treated rats. We suggest that these antiprogestagens act via inhibition of luteal function in addition to their antagonism at the uterine progesterone receptor level.

Synthesis and pharmacological screening of some new triazoles

3,5-Dinitrobenzoic acid hydrazide (1) treated with substituted phenyl isothiocyanates (2a-2d) in dry benzene yields N'-aryl-N4-(3,5-dinitrophenyl) thiosemicarbazides (3-6), which cyclizes in NaOH solution yielding 1-aryl-5-(3,5-dinitrophenyl)-2-mercapto-1,3,4-triazoles (7-10). The reaction of the appropriate 7-10 respectively with chloroacetic acid and 4-chlorobenzoic acid in NaOH solution gave 1-aryl-5-(3.5-dinitrophenyl)-2-mercapto methyl/phenyl carboxy-1,3,4-triazoles (11-18). All the compounds were found to be relatively non toxic (ALD greater than 1000 mg/kg), whereas in their gross CNS observations the compounds were found to be psychotropic. They increased or decreased spontaneous locomotor activity and at high doses produced writhing and mild hypothermia. Some of them mildly affected the cardiovascular system and showed antiinflammatory activity.

Characteristics of users of traditional contraceptive methods in Bangladesh

The 1981 Bangladesh Contraceptive Prevalence Survey found that 55% of ever-married women had some knowledge of traditional methods of contraception and the overall level of ever use was 23%. There was a positive relationship between use and socioeconomic variables. Current use of traditional methods at 7·7% was only slightly below the figure for modern methods (10·9%). It is suggested that traditional methods still have an important role in family planning and that this should not be disregarded.

Plasma hormonal profiles during summer in langur monkeys (Presbytis entellus entellus)

Plasma estradiol and progesterone levels were analysed by radioimmunoassay in adult female langur monkeys during summer months. Summer was characterized in monkeys with irregular and prolonged menstrual cycles. In anovulatory cycles a reduction of estradiol and progesterone levels was observed as compared to ovulatory cycles.

Effect of long-term centchroman treatment on plasma steroid and peptide hormones in female rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Effect of weekly oral administration of Centchroman (3,4-trans-2, 2-dimethyl-3-phenyl-4-(p-(beta-pyrrolidinoethoxy)-phenyl)-7-met hoxychroman) at 1 and 2.5 mg/kg for 12 months on plasma estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone of female rhesus monkeys was studied. Centchroman administration at both doses did not disturb the menstrual pattern of rhesus monkeys except for a prolongation of the first treatment cycle. The subsequent cycles were of normal duration. The general pattern of plasma estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone was not affected by Centchroman treatment. The basal and peak levels were similar in pretreatment, control and treatment cycles. The results clearly indicate that Centchroman treatment up to 1 year does not affect the hypothalamo-pituitary-ovarian axis in female rhesus monkeys.